Chapters In Ponyville, there was a rundown looking house, a place most ponies left alone as a condemned house. was a massive laboratory. This lab was fully equipped with everything a scientist would love; one section had scientist ponies focusing on chemical reactions, another group focused on writing theories and formulas on what could be the biggest chalkboard in existence, but it was the last and largest section of the lab that had the most ponies. The room was massive and bright, and there were several ponies of the three races, some wearing strange looking devices on their hooves, wings, and or horns. The other groups were either waiting their turns or relaxing in body casts, in a medical corner. To the side of the group was a dark grey unicorn with a subtly long black mane, long red scarf around his neck and mouth, and a lightning bolt and wrench in an X shape cutie mark on his flank.
"Alright." The unicorn with the red scarf intrusted the small group. "As you've hopefully noticed, you are all wearing my latest inventions; the earth modifier, the sky boaster, and the magic enhancer. Now your jobs, your reason why I'm paying you by the hour, is to test out these inventions. Now to answer any questions; no, nopony has died from these experiment...Just badly injured....yes, you will be paid regardless of the results, and I am..decently sure that the experiment is completely safe."
Right before the less than eager ponies were about to start the experiment, a pony in a lab coat ran over to the red scarfed unicorn.
"Ocean?! Ocean!" The lab pony ran up. "We need your help sir!"
"What is it?" Ocean's expression wasn't too happy that his experiment, unlike the more than happy test subjects.
"Read this sir." The lab pony handed over a a long sheet of data to Ocean. Ocean didn't take much time to look over the date. Suddenly, his orange eyes grew to the size of small plates.
"How accurate is this?!" Ocean demanded.
"We aren't too sure sir." The pony explained. "We were hoping you could explain it."
"The experiment is canceled!" Ocean called out to his subjects. "Take a break and go to the receptionists for your pay."
You've never seen a happier set of ponies an they took off the experimental gear and left. But Ocean had no time for that; quickly, he and the other pony headed over to the other end of the lab to find no less than five or six other ponies running around, crunching numbers and running through data.
"Ocean sir!" Another lab pony called over. "Look at this!"
Ocean maintained his calm composure, but you could see a sense of excitement in his eyes. The readings of data spewing out of the machines were staggering and almost impossible. But there it was, something had to be causing these spikes in energy.
"Have we traced the source?" Ocean asked.
"We have a direction but even our long range scans can't reach that far." A pony apologized.
"I want a report written and on my desk immediately!" Ocean instructed. "I have to contact the Princesses."
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
It was now several hours later and Ocean was waiting in his office. The office was small and covered with countless maps, charts, designs, various other sheets of data. But despite what could be called a clutter, it was surprisingly organized. Ocean was known for his OCD, and he made sure to keep his office neat regardless of clutter and work. Even his desk was organized despite the mess. The most notable thing was a smooth crystal ball on the right corner of his desk. For the last few hours, Ocean stared at this crystal, as if something was supposed to happen. Suddenly, the crystal began softly shaking and a small flicker of light began blinking inn the center.
"Finally." Ocean sighed with impatience, taping on the crystal with his horn.
Ocean's horn glowed its shade of orange and a projection of both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna emerged from the crystal.
"Hello your highnesses." Ocean bowed.
"Hello Ocean Stardust." Celestia and Luna politely replied.
"I take it you both received my report?" Ocean asked.
"Yes." Celestia answered. "And I am interested in what your opinion of the matter is. What do you believe this energy is?"
"Unknown." Ocean explained calmly. "I have looked over the data several time and compared previous scans of the suspected area of origin and nothing matches. This energy signature is unique and has never been seen before. There is only one other source that can produce such energy."
"And that would be?" Luna asked.
"Alicorn magic." Ocean stated, adjusting his scarf.
Both Princesses' expressions were almost beyond shocked. Ocean made a mental note of the Princesses' expressions, clearly they knew just as little as he did.
"So knowing that this source is unknown and what its purpose is equally unknown." Ocean proposed. "I suggest you allow myself to study this source."
"Would you bring a team with you?" Celestia asked.
"Normally I would say so." Ocean disagreed. "But given that the circumstances of this source is unknown; assuming it is an active being or possibly a living creature, a team may intimidate it and cause it to retreat. I myself should be enough."
"We cannot allow you to go out on your own." Luna interjected. "Our sister and us believe you require at least one guard for protection."
"Very well." Ocean made sure the Princesses didn't see him sigh. "Who is to be sent? Shining Armor is in the Crystal Empire, and Flash Sentry is too inexperienced."
"You are to report to Princess Twilight Sparkle for your guard." Celestia answered. "I believe there is somepony we have in mind there."
Ocean's face almost cringed at the thought of who she meant. "Very well Princess. I will report to the Castle of Friendship."
"We await your report when you've identified the source." Luna instructed.
"Of course." Ocean bowed and the connection was disconnected.
Ocean sat back in his chair, adjusting his scarf. He knew exactly who the Princesses were planning to send with him, and he wasn't too happy with their choice.
"Why'd it have to be him?" Ocean asked openly to himself.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Standing guard at the Castle of Friendship was a a black unicorn stallion. His red, with blue pointed mane was long, unkempt and covered most of his eyes, only one ruby colored eye was visible in such a mess; his tail was the same. Letting out a tiring yawn, the unicorn showed a small set of fanged teeth and then scratched an itch on his spiky ears. His itching hooves spread to his flank, and over his cutie mark that took the shape of a crescent moon atop two red blades in an X formation.
"Man this shift is boring." The unicorn yawned again. "Stupid day guard getting sick and forcing his shift on me, I haven't slept yet."
"Lieutenant Crescent-Blade Nocturnis!" A voice shouted from the side of the unicorn. Nocturnis quickly straightened up his body then looked over to where the voice came from.
Walking towards Crescent was a rather attractive looking silver filly, who was a similar species to Nocturnis but lacked a horn. Her tied up red and pink mane caught the jealous eye of several guards she passed by. In her teeth was a small wicker basket.
"Ruby?" Crescent asked. "What are you doing here?"
Ruby placed the basket gently down. "You never came home this morning. So when I found out you were given a double shift, I made you a lunch to help you through the day."
The other guards cracked jokes and small teases at Crescent's "Wife" as she was nicknamed, bringing him a "love lunch". This caused a rather embarrassed blush to form across both Crescent's and Ruby's faces. Before Nocturnis could tell the other guards to piss off as he always have, another guard ran towards him.
"Lieutenant!" The guard saluted and handed a scroll to Crescent. "Princess Sparkle has summoned you."
"I wonder what she wants?" Crescent joked, opening the scroll and quickly reading it's contents. Crescent let out a sigh as he finished. "Looks like they need me for a "special" mission."
"Oh?" Ruby responded. "Does it say what kind of mission? What you'll be doing?"
"Nope." Crescent replied. "We'll have to do lunch later Ruby. I better see what she wants."
Ruby let out a disappointed sigh but knew Crescent took his role as Lieutenant Night Guard quite seriously.
"Just make sure you come home before you leave." Ruby reminded.
"I will." Crescent nodded, giving his friend a good-bye hug.
As Crescent made his way down the hall leading to the main chambers. Crescent wasn't the most keen on being a guard for Princess Twilight. Although he didn't have any major personal issues with the Princess, he did find her easy acceptance over Princess Celestia almost controlling her destiny as less than satisfactory. Crescent was equally annoyed by Celestia's manipulating and secrecy. He found it distrustful and dishonorable. He did, however, have great respect for Princess Luna. Luna helped him become a night guard, and it was Luna who pardoned Ruby of a past crime.
Upon reaching the main chambers, Crescent cringed a tad. The room was always too bright and too reflective for his taste. But he endured.
"You summoned me your highness?" Crescent may not respect Twilight, but will remember his role as a guard and maintains his manners...when he felt he had to.
"Thank you for coming on short notice Lieutenant." Princess Twilight smiled.
Besides Twilight was her dragon companion Spike, who was coming and going with several stacks of paper work.
"Your orders didn't give much detail on what I'm doing." Crescent became more casual.
"Sorry about that." Twilight almost matched his casual tone. "I have been so busy with these forms, regulations, and legal bills. Anyway, both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna contacted me only this morning with news and instructions."
"(Princess Luna too?)" Crescent thought to himself.
"There has been a large reading of magical energy in the far north." Twilight explained. "And both Princesses have agreed to send one of, if not, their top scientist. To compensate for the lack of science team the pony refused to have formed, you have been chosen to protect and accompany this pony."
"Okay, I'm gonna have to stop you right there." Crescent extended his hoof. "A few questions...one, who am I guarding and two, when do I leave?"
"He's the top engineer of Princess Luna's research teams." Twilight started her answer.
"(Oh Luna.)" Crescent's ruby eye widened and he mentally began praying. "(Please don't let it be that pony.)"
"His name is Ocean Stardust." Twilight fully answered.
"I understand completely." Crescent's mouth spoke, but in his head. "(Oh Luna, NOT that pony!)"
"Of all the stupid, annoying things that could happen today." Ocean paced back and forth in frustration. "Why the buck did this have to happen?! We'll be days behind if we're lucky."
"It's not that bad Ocean." Crescent said. "We got on the wrong train, it happens."
"No! Crescent." Ocean snapped. "We were on the right train, until I was dumb enough to fall asleep and leave an irresponsible pony like you to wake me up when we stopped. Not only did you fail to wake me when we stopped, but you and your marefriend both fall asleep, and then the train went back not just past Canterlot and Ponyville, but we're in DODGE BUCKING JUNCTION!!! THAT'S THE EXACT OPPOSITE DIRECTION OF OUR DESTINATION!!!"
"Sorry Ocean." Ruby apologized.
"Hmm here." Ocean reached in his saddle bag and tossed a bag of bits at Ruby and Crescent. "It's another six hours before the next train to the North and I don't want to look at either of you. Take that money, do whatever, just go! Be back here before the next train, or I'm leaving you both here."
Before Crescent could say something, Ruby grabbed both the bits and Crescent. "Thank you Ocean. Once again, I'm sorry."
Walking through the small rustic town, Crescent and Ruby took in the sights, or lack there of. The town only had a few buildings but lots of Earth and Pegasi. Not as many Unicorns though.
"What a small town." Ruby observed. "I think the only buildings I saw are inns, and restaurants."
"Well Dodge Junction is a place ponies go to get away from something, or wait for a train." Crescent commented.
"Like us." Ruby commented. "Maybe while we're here, we should-"
"GET OUT!!!" A mare's voice shouted in the distance.
Not running, but not walking towards the source of the noise. Ruby and Crescent saw a heavy set light green Earth mare with a curled up dirty blond mane scolding at a cowering blueish grey colored Pegasus stallion. His hooves and messy mane of the same color cowered and looked like he was in a begging position, his faintly golden eyes kept this groveling look as he begged. The strangest thing was the his lack of cutie mark, he was a full grown stallion, but he was a blank flank.
"I told you to get out!" The mare shouted at the pegasus. "No bits, no food. NO EXCEPTIONS!!"
"B-but.." The pegasus kept begging.
"No exceptions!" The mare stated again. "Come back when you have bits."
"Well that sucks." Crescent said.
"You'd think ponies would help their fellow ponies in need." Ruby commented quietly, but couldn't stand watching this and stepped forward. "Excuse me?"
"And what do you want?" The mare asked in a stern tone.
"What's going on here?" Ruby asked. "If he's hungry, even without bits, shouldn't he get some food?"
"I don't know who you are, or where you're from." The mare stated. "But around here, we work for our food."
"But look at him." Ruby pointed out. "The poor guy's too exhausted and hungry to work."
"Sorry, no exceptions." The mare said sternly. "If I gave out free food to every sad story, I'd be out of business."
"Then how about this!" Ruby grabbed the bag of bits, and tossed it at the mare's hooves. "We'll pay for his meal."
The mare cringed a little and took a deep breath. "Fine. Come in."
"Come on." Ruby patted the pegasus on his back with a smile. "Let's get some food."
That pegasus might as well have seen an angel of mercy with how his tears of joys trickled a bit. Inside the restaurant, the three ponies were seated at a large table. The mare then gave the three menus.
"My name is Shrubbery and I'll be your waitress." Shrubbery said with a near forced smile. "Let me know when you're ready to-"
"Everything." Ruby said in a near mocking tone. "I'm sure the bits we gave can buy one of everything."
"Yes..yes they can." Shrubbery sounded a bit annoyed but since she was making money, she couldn't complain. "It'll take a little time but I'll bring them out as they finish getting cooked."
"No rush." Ruby said in a snide, victorious tone.
Shrubbery simply nodded her head and headed into the kitchen.
"Was that really necessary?" Crescent laughed a bit. "That pony's gonna hate us until we leave."
"I had no choice Crescent." Ruby said. "I couldn't let him starve when nopony was gonna help him." She then turned towards the pegasus she helped. "Oh and I'm Ruby Wing, and this is Crescent-Blade. What's you're name?"
"T-Talon." The pony stuttered in a nervous tone.
"No need to be so shy." Ruby smiled. "When the food comes, you can eat as much as you want."
Talon could almost burst into tears, he wasn't accustomed to such kindness. It wasn't long before Shrubbery came with the first round of food. An appetizer of toasted wheat bread, fried peas, roasted chestnuts, and fresh apple cider. Talon couldn't believe what they got right off the bat.
"I'll bring out the entree when you're done with the appetizer." Shrubbery said, taking her leave.
"Well let's dig in." Crescent said, starting to take a few bites.
Without a delay, Talon started to slowly eat some of the food, still nervous at how kind these two ponies are being to him. The appetizer went by generally quickly and the first round of entrees began. Vegetable stir-fry, roasted chestnuts in noodles, plates of pasta with red sauce, coleslaw, five different types of eggs, soups, stews, and chowders in bread bowls, large salads, and various sandwiches. Ruby and Crescent were impressed by the spread, but Talon's eyes almost burst out of their sockets at such a feast. This is was more food than he's ever seen in one sitting.
"No need to hold back." Ruby smiled again. "Eat your fill."
Talon took that offer to heart, as he began shoveling down food as if it was the last thing he'd ever eat. He went from a shy nibbler to a blur of food and hooves. This is quite a surprise for the two across from him. Ruby and Crescent could only stare in amazement ast how quickly Talon was gulping the food.
"Well..." Ruby chuckled a bit. "It seemed he was hungry, though I don't think I'm seeing him chew his food."
"Well you better hurry up Ruby." Crescent said, started to eat the food. "At this rate, he'll eat all the food."
Ruby grabbed a hold of some of the food and began to peacefully eat the food in front of her. After several more minutes of binging, the entrees were gone. It was then that Shrubbery brought out the final course...dessert. Several different types of pies; cherry, apple, chocolate cream, blackberry, apple fritters, wheat cream cakes, and even some small cookies. But one look at the treats made Ruby almost give up her lunch, she already ate her fill.
"(Pony food is filling)" Ruby thought to herself. "(But not high in nutrients for me.) You can have what's left Crescent, Talon."
"Oh no I'm good." Crescent said, if he had a belt, he would undo the notch. "I ate my fill, and I sure a buck not giving some to that prick Ocean. So think you can eat the rest Tal-"
Crescent and Ruby already saw that almost half the desserts were gone; eaten by what could possibly be a bottomless pit in Talon's stomach. It wasn't too long before the food was all spent. Sitting in the afterglow, the three awaited the check.
"Just lucky for you." Shrubbery said, handing over a slip of paper with the word "PAID" stamped on it. "The bits you gave were just enough to cover everything...Plus tip."
"Okay then." Ruby and the rest got up. "Thank you for the food."
"And please." Shrubbery said calmly as they left the building and out of earshot. "Don't come back."
______________________Back at the Station____________________________
Ocean stared and stared and continuously stared over his notes, but none of it made sense.
"I've already ruled out some artificial or alternative energy source." Ocean adjusted his scarf in frustration. "No country, no race, especially in the northern hemisphere is capable of such a feat in so little time without being noticed. And our scans can reach the Crystal Empire, and this signal is even farther north. So what could've made it so far. Nothing that far north by some frozen mountains." Ocean kept jotting down notes down. "Possibly an ancient Alicorn temple. Possible, given their unknown histories. Maybe some Alicorn is frozen and is calling for help." Ocean thought that one over and quickly scribbled that out. "That's ridiculous. If it was another Alicorn, Princess Celestia or Luna would know something. What could it be?"
"Ocean we're back." Ruby announced politely, not wanting to interrupt Ocean's concentration.
Given his time to calm down, Ocean was less annoyed by the two. "Who's that?"
Following close behind Ruby and Crescent, was Talon. He was like a lost puppy, fed and now following the hoof that fed him.
"His name's Talon." Ruby explained. "We found him being harassed by a restaurant owner because he didn't have any money."
"Ruby. I have no idea where you grew up. But if you don't have money, why would anypony go to a restaurant?" Ocean asked.
"I..I was hungry and I was too weak to work." Talon said, rather nervously. "I thought if I got food, I could work it off after I ate."
"And since my...associates fed you. What are you doing here?" Ocean asked sternly.
"Well I feel so bad that they spent so many bits on me." Talon explained. "That I have to pay them back somehow."
"A lot of bits?" Ocean looked at the two. "How many of bits I gave did you spend?"
"All of it." Crescent sighed. "Ruby ended up spending all the bits you gave us on food."
"I didn't see you complaining as you were shoveling your face." Ruby laughed a bit.
"Anyway!" Ocean brought the discussion back on track. "I don't care what you do with him, but we are not bringing him, and you Talon, just accept that they helped you and get over it."
"B-But I have to do something." Talon protested. "I could come with you...repay my debt that way."
"No!" Ocean protested. "We're going to the Crystal Empire, on IMPORTANT business. Not some vacation. You'll just get in the way."
Just then the sound of a incoming train was nearing the station.
"Our train is here and they won't let you on without tickets." Ocean told Talon. "So just say your peace and let that be the end of it."
As the train rolled up, Ocean, Ruby, and Crescent boarded the train. Though Ruby was against Ocean's rude statements, she was technically a guest in this venture too. And before Ruby could say anything to Talon, he was already gone, took off into the air. So with the calling of the conductor and the blowing of the whistle, the train began to move. This time, Ruby, Crescent, and Ocean would stay awake through their trip. BUT...unknown to the group, Talon was close behind them; a couple feet above the train, with a rope firmly tied around a cloud, Talon lassoed his own ride to the train. So he can fulfill his debt to the mare who was so kind to him.
____________________To the Frozen North, past the Crystal Empire_________________________
"Have Pit and Collie returned from the Diamond Dog Mine?" Oge asked a large, cloaked Earth pony.
"Yes Lord Oge." The Earth pony sounded male and near middle aged. "As well as Crystal and Ishtar from the Changeling Hive."
"And their report?" Oge asked, not looking away from the maps in front of him.
"Crystal reports that the Changelings will give us all information from their scouts regarding the fragments. But they have none themselves." The stallion continued. "But Pit claims he detected a large fragment somewhere within the Dog Mine."
"I see." Oge's eyes lit up a tad. "I will have Pit look into it later. For now, are you ready for your assignment in the Crystal Empire?"
"Yes Lord Oge." The stallion bowed and soon left the room.
Oge stared and stared at his map of Equestria. Several spots marked and burnt out. "So many places to search, but I've waited years for this, I can wait a little longer. Soon all of Equestria will suffer and burn under the wing of flame and hatred. But for now, I shall use the Changelings and Diamond Dogs until their use is expired. Let us see how this all plays out."
The Crystal Empire was just as Ocean remembered the last time he was there. It was big, shiny, and despite the near constant summer it was always annoyingly hot. But it was better than that constant blizzard that used to surround the Empire. But thankfully, Ocean was only gonna stay for a few nights if he had to, his colleague wasn't one to waste time, so this should hopefully go quickly. Looking at the other two, Ocean saw Crescent and Ruby all cuddled up together. Looking at the sleeping pair, Ocean was curious about Ruby.
'Why did Princess Luna make it so important that those two can't be apart for too long?' Ocean thought to himself. 'Just who is this mare?' Noticing that they were approaching their destination, Ocean gently shook both Crescent and Ruby. "Hey wake up, we're here."
Rousing from their sleep, Crescent and Ruby saw they were in a semi cuddling position, they quickly moved a few inches away from each other. Ruby distracted the faint blush on her face by looking out the window. Looking at the splendor of the upcoming crystal city. Crescent wasn't as enthusiastic. When he was promoted to lieutenant, he was almost stationed at the Crystal Empire, but thankfully, Princess Luna stopped the transfer. Crescent let out a sigh of discomfort as the city drew closer and closer.
"I know you don't like the Crystal Empire Crescent." Ocean sighed. "But just deal with it until I'm done talking to my colleague."
"Yeah, you get to talk about some energy crap." Crescent said, his tone was less than enthusiastic. "You don't have to deal with him."
"Crescent, just let your pointless frustration go." Ocean sighed, adjusting his scarf. "It has been years since your petty argument with Captain Armor. There is no need to-"
"Don't you DARE call what happened a 'petty argument'!" Crescent snapped in frustration, then he looked at the excited Ruby for a moment.
Ocean didn't say another word, only watched Crescent's tone of what he said and how he looked at Ruby afterwards. 'Intriguing. What is Ruby to Crescent?'
___________Meanwhile...at a Music Store in the Crystal Empire___________
"Thank you, come again." A dark grey Earth stallion with a black and purple streaked mane, and a music note on fire cutie mark, smiled as the last customer left.
Around the store, there were several instruments of various shapes and sizes. Though the store wasn't too big, but it was a nice "cozy" size. The dark grey Earth stallion looked around the room, as if he was looking for something. Then he found it, in the corner, behind a row of basses and cellos. Laying down in a lazy fashion was a light grey Earth stallion with a black and light green mane, his music note and lightning bolt cutie mark resting against the wall.
"You know that was quite the rush, eh Butch?" the dark grey stallion asked.
"I know. I've never seen you so busy Azer." Butch responded. "You were almost a blur with your speed."
"And you know what would have made the rush easier?" Azer asked calmly.
"And what is that?" Butch asked with a yawn.
"IF YOU ACTUALLY GOT OFF YOUR LAZY FLANK TO HELP ME!!" Butch shouted in an annoyed manner.
"Now now now. My dear brother." Butch said in a lazy, charismatic manner, that only annoyed Azer more. "Think of it like this...*yawn...if you do good here, you know who might be impressed."
"True, but I would've been easier to run this store, if I don't know, you HELPED me run this place!" Azer said, grabbing a broom to clean the floor, or hit his brother.
"Oh come on Azer." Butch said, getting up and wrapping his arm over Azer's shoulder. "Remember what we talked about yesterday. You need some inner peace and should relax."
"Not if it makes me a lazy mooch like you. No thank you." Azer sighed, then he looked his brother right in the eye and saw the same look Butch always gave him. "And no, I'm not loaning you a few bits."
"Aw come on!" Butch said. "But this time, I need the money."
"For what?" Azer raised an eyebrow. "To piss it away at the bar and try to hit on some random crystal mares?"
"Noooo.....yes....so please?!" Butch asked again.
Azer let out a sigh, and thought of an idea. "If you actually do some work, I'll give you some bits."
"Nah, no much work." Butch said, going back to his resting spot behind the larger string instruments.
Azer just sighed and continued to clean the store.
___________Back at the Crystal Empire Train Station___________
Ocean, Crescent, and Ruby finished unloading their luggage and sorted everything out with the conductor.
"Okay, let's get this over with." Crescent said, his mood didn't improve much.
As the group of ponies left the station, and headed into the city, another pony; a yellow pegasus mare with a messy pink mane followed the group in the shadows and through the crowd. Getting into the city, Ruby was almost overwhelmed by the sheer splendor of the city. Everything shimmered and was made of some form of thick glass and crystal. It all sparkled so beautifully in the sunlight. Often, Ruby had to be roused out of her amazement by either Crescent or Ocean, so she wouldn't fall behind. Eventually, the group made it to the towering castle at the center of the city. Between it's four stands, the beautiful, tantalizing Crystal Heart shimmered in the light.
"Halt citizen." A crystal guard said, approaching the group as they approached the castle. "Do you have business in the castle?"
"Yes. We have an audience with Princess Cadance and Shining Armor." Ocean said, showing Celestia's seal on the letter.
The guards nodded and let the three pass. Though the mare following them was unable to follow and so looked around for another way into the palace.
"I know they told me not to." The mare quietly told herself, looking about the palace. "But I need to do something, anything." Then a strange feeling almost struck through the mare, like a sudden cramp. "No, not now!" Quickly looking for anywhere to go, the mare saw a nearby building.
Knowing what the cramp meant, the mare almost flew into the store. The exact second she closed the door behind her, a large spew of smoke filled the store and enveloped the mare. When the smoke cleared, which was relatively quickly, the mare was no longer there, and where she stood, an exhausted and heavily breathing Talon stood. When Talon looked around the store, he saw he was not alone. To Talon's embarrassed shock, two Earth stallions, Azer and Butch, not only saw Talon go from a mare to a stallion, but were very confused.
"Uh bro." Butch said, rubbing his eyes in disbelief. "Did a mare just burst into the room, let out a smokescreen, and become a stallion. Or am I still tired?"
"For once Butch." Azer said. "You are correct. That did happen, as unbelievable as it sounds."
"Uhhh...hi..." Talon said, slowly back to the door behind him. "You're not gonna tell other ponies about this, are you?"
"Well that depends." Butch smiled, getting up from his napping spot, approaching the increasingly scared Talon. "How 'bout you tell me how you did that."
Suddenly, Azer's hoof grabbed Butch from the back of his neck and pulled him away from Talon.
"I'm sorry about that." Azer said. "My brother can be stupidly nosey sometimes. We'll keep your secret, and you don't have to tell us anything if you don't want to. But I would like to know, what brings you to the Crystal Empire?"
"Oh well.." Talon said, kinda relaxing but still nervous. "It's a bit of a long story."
"Butch, go make some tea." Azer said. "We don't get customers around this time, so we have time to talk. Would you like some tea?"
"S-sure. I'd like some." Talon said, thankful that he met at least one other nice pony.
___________The Crystal Empire Throne Room___________
The interior of the throne room was full of large, shimmering crystals. The large throne at the end of the long carpet was a near explosion of crystals. Sitting in the crystal throne was Princess Cadance, and standing besides the throne was Shining Armor. Crescent avoided eye contact with Armor, he wanted to get this over with.
"Hello Ocean Stardust, Crescent-Blade, Ruby Wing." Cadance smiled gently. "It's good that you were able to come here."
"It's no problem Princess." Ocean said. "We are eager to solve this problem as soon as possible."
"I understand." Cadance nodded. "Take as much time as you need. Is there anything I can assist with?"
"My colleague should be here. Their name is Fusion and is the leading expert on energy signatures." Ocean asked. "Could you direct me to them?"
"Fusion is currently researching some strange crystals that were recovered on the outskirts of our borders." Armor answered, gesturing towards Ocean. "I can take you to them."
"Very well." Ocean said, then looked at Crescent and Ruby. "You two can enjoy the city while I work."
"Alright." Crescent said, happy to be leaving. "Whatever gets me away from that asshole Armor."
Armor didn't hear Crescent, but looked over his shoulder. The look in his eye when he saw Ruby was one of great disgust. "Whatever gets that creature out of my sight."
As Ocean and Armor ventured down the spiraling stairs, Ocean thought back to what he saw. Armor didn't catch him, but Ocean saw the look in Armor's eye and, though it was a hunch, Armor made that look at Ruby. Ocean wondered why Armor made such a look. It wasn't long until they reached the bottom of the stairs. In front of them was a overly large door. Large enough for a pony to stand on another pony's shoulders, and still it would too tall.
"This is Fusion's lab." Armor said.
"Thank you Armor." Ocean said, knocking on the door.
After a few moments of silence, the door was slowly opened. Opening the door was a large dark brown Earth stallion, his long grey mane and scruffy beard gave testament to his middle age. His eyes were a cold blue and, most astonishing was his forarms and forehooves were made entirely out of teal colored crystal.
"Ah Stone." Armor greeted. "Is Fusion in the lab."
"They are." Stone greeted, his voice was gruff, yet calm and polite. "Please come inside."
Walking through the doorway, Ocean got a good look of the lab. It was massive, quite bigger than he expected. He even had to adjust his scarf to cover the amazed smile on his face. Looking back at Stone, Ocean got a good look of the stallion. He was easily bigger than Big Mac back in Ponyville, and even more muscular. And his cutie mark was a golden axe. But it was those crystal arms that really caught Ocean's eye.
'How could this Earth pony be using crystals as prosthetic limbs?' Ocean thought to himself. 'They even bend and move as if they were organic appendages.'
"They are quite amazing aren't they?" An oddly genderless voice echoed from the end of the room. Stepping forward was another strange sight.
A pony, or what could be a pony wrapped in a heavy looking black and gold robe. This robe covered everything on this pony, their tail, their head, their hooves. It was impossible to know the type and gender of this pony. And even more odd was the face. Under the hood of this robed pony was an expressionless, genderless face, with a large purple gem stone in the area of the forehead.
"Stone Cold here has refused to tell me how he acquired such limbs." The pony said. "But it doesn't really matter, he has been a wonderful assistant." The pony then looked at Ocean. "It is good to see you my old friend."
"Hello to you too Fusion." Ocean nodded, then looked at Stone. "i am quite curious where they came from as well."
"I'm sorry Mr. Ocean." Stone said politely. "But I would rather nopony knows. I'll go get some refreshments Fusion. Would you like something Prince Armor?"
"No thank you." Armor said. "I have to get back Cadance and discuss some matters."
Armor then left the room, leaving Stone, Ocean, and Fusion in the lab.
"I take it you received my letter?" Ocean asked.
"Why yes I did." Fusion said, the gem on its head glowing faintly and a letter levitated towards Fusion. "But it seems you have no idea what this source is?"
"Yes and I was hoping you could help." Ocean said. "I'm sure your scanners would have a more accurate reading."
"Yes they do." Fusion said. "Come with me."
Leading Ocean to the other side of the lab, Ocean saw a large table covered with the same type of crystal gem Fusion wore in all shapes and sized.
"The guards found some of these shards around the borders of the Empire not a few months ago." Fusion said.
"Shards?" Ocean asked. "You say that as if they are pieces of something bigger."
"Oh but they are. " Fusion explained, levitating a shard. "There were more than twice the amount of shards here before. Then there was a massive power surge from the far North. I don't know how as of yet, but this surge affected the shards and bonded a few of them into the larger shards you see now. Even the gem on my head amplified in strength. But it soon passed."
"Were you able to get a reading on the source?" Ocean asked.
"Yes. But it was equally peculiar." Fusion said, moving the shards to the side of the table, showing a large map of not the Equestria, but the entire world map. "As you may have already guessed, this energy is comparable to Alicorn magic. And I have been able to find a place of origin. It is here." The hoof was places on a section of the map North of the Crystal Empire, in a mountainous region. "The area is locked in a constant blizzard, no Unicorn, nor Pegasus can alter the weather. But the source is there."
"But there must be a way to get there." Ocean hypothesized. "But how? Maybe something with the shards here."
"My thoughts exactly, but there is a problem." Fusion explained. "I have had teams search every acre of land in the Crystal Empire, these crystals are not native to the region. Yet they seem to be highly affected by this strange energy. I suspect there are more shards and they hold the key to entering that blizzard safely. As for now, I have only hypothesis to go on. And need another surge to further my experiments."
"Another? Have these surges been constant?" Ocean asked.
"Surprisingly so." Fusion said. "I don't know what caused the big surge that you picked up in Ponyville, but for the last week, there have been small surges every several hours or so."
"Fusion. It's time." Stone said, carrying a tray of hot tea on his back, placing it on a empty table.
"Ah perfect, thank you Stone." Fusion said, placing the shards next to each other, close enough where they were touching. "Stone noticed this only yesterday, but the surges are minute and only felt by these crystals, but every so often, there is a bigger surge that greatly affects these crystals. We have calculated that the next surge will be a large one."
Waiting in anticipation for the next surge, Ocean, Fusion, and Stone watched the shards. In the next moment, the shards, and even the gem on Fusion's head glowed rather brightly. Soon the shards started to slightly vibrate and the faint lines between them started to blur. The light became brighter and bright as the crystals seemed to fuse together. When the light finally faded,n all the shards were gone, instead there was an even bigger shard, easily twice or three times the size as the shards before.
"Magnificent." Fusion said. "And this proves that the surges and shards are somehow connected."
"It would appear so." Ocean said, in amazement, adjusting his scarf to hide his smile. "But this shard still looks incomplete."
"Exactly." Fusion said. "Even if we were to apply the gem on my head, it still would not be enough, I suspect that there are more of these shards and each pulse is slowly drawing them closer and closer to the source. But at the rate the shard moves whenever the surge occurs, it will be centuries before the shards return to this mystery source."
"This is an amazing find Fusion." Ocean said. "Do you have any notes and formulas prepared?"
"Why yes, Stone, could you get me those books over there?" Fusion pointed to a far shelf.
Stone retrieved the books Ocean requested and Ocean poured through page after page. These surges were a mystery that fascinated him, and he knew it had to be solved somehow.
___________In a Remote Cavern outside the Crystal Empire's Borders__________
A lone, tall, and slender figure walked through the dark cavern. Though she didn't see them, she knew they were there, countless eyes looking this figure over. As soon as she reached the center, she ignited her horn, illuminating the room. It was Queen Chrysalis of the Changeling Hive, and around around her were Changelings; but these Changelings looked different. They were mutated, deformed, scarred, and grotesque in appearance.
"My dear Misshapen children." Chrysalis spoke to these Misshapen, who looked upon Chrysalis with both hatred and fear. "I know I abandoned you, tossed you aside, and left you all to die. But I offer a chance for you all to earn your place in the Hive."
All the ears of the Misshapen lifted in anticipation. These were Changelings who were tossed from the Hive at birth for their birth defect and mutations. Left to die from predators, or the elements around them, or even starvation from lack of love to feed on. They would do anything to be welcomed into the Hive, Chrysalis knew this and was willing to take advantage of this desperation.
"Beyond this cave, this dank home you Misshapen live in, is the great Crystal Empire." Chrysalis announced. "Filled with the love and happiness of its ponies." Chrysalis saw how some of the Misshapen were practically drooling with anticipation. "Go there, feed on their love and bring it back to the Hive. Give the Hive the Crystal Empire's love and earn your place back home, my Misshapen!"
The Misshapen spread their wings and scattered all around Chrysalis. The Misshapen flew at full speed out of the cave. Their sheer numbers looked like a massive black cloud of clicks and buzzes. And the Crystal Empire was only just over the horizon of the midday Sun.
Clicks, Buzzes, Teeth, and Wings
"So if we cross analyze this signature here." Ocean said, quickly writing notes down.
"And compare to the readings of older books." Fusion added.
"Then that means these surges of energy have been occurring for years, possibly decades or centuries!" Ocean could barely contain his excitement. This was beyond the find of the century. "Do you think these crystals are the key to entering the location of the source?"
"It's a possibly." Fusion considered. "But we would need to gather more of these crystals. Currently, there are no real manner to find these crystals and there is no way to calculate just how many there are."
"But I'm sure we can find something." Ocean suggested. "Maybe a scanner, or-"
CRASH...BANG...BOOM
The room, possibly the castle itself then shook.
"What was that?!" Ocean shouted in surprise.
"Fascinating." Fusion said, running to their monitors. "It seems a large force of something is attacking the Crystal Empire. But what force is large enough to accurately attack us but is small enough to remain hidden until the last moment."
Ocean was about to respond but felt a swift and hard force strike the back of his neck, knocking him to the ground.
"A force in need of your assistance Fusion." Stone said, standing over Ocean's unconscious body. "We considered him at first but felt you were the best for what we need."
"And what is it you need?" Fusion inquired cautiously.
"Those crystals, and you." Stone said, striking Fusion unconscious, then gathering all the crystals in a large saddle bag before making his way out the door; with Fusion slumped on his back.
Earlier
"So let me get this straight." Azer sat in the chair, facing Talon after he told his story. "You were traveling past Dodge Junction, got hungry, had no bits for food, this group of ponies offered to pay for your meal and now, despite being told you don't have to, you followed them all the way here to the Crystal Empire in order to repay your debt with them."
"Y-yes..." Talon nervously sipped tea. "I-I know it sounds a little hard to believe."
"More like unlikely." Butch said, laying on his back. "I get the whole wanting to help, but isn't this a tad excessive?"
"I don't think so Butch." Azer said. "I am amazed that there's still somepony that actually is willing to go out of their way to do what they feel is right. Unlike some brother of mine who's never did an honest day's work. So what will you do when you find them?"
"Well I haven't gotten that far." Talon explained. "I saw them enter the palace but I couldn't follow them before I...well..."
"Went from mare to stallion." Butch said. "I'm still trying to figure out how you did that."
"Butch. We promised to not pry into Talon's life if he doesn't want to talk about it." Azer snapped a little. "Maybe you should think before you-"
...CLICK...CLICK...CLICK...CLICK...CLICK...
"What's that, what's that sound?" Azer asked, opening the door to look outside.
Looking outside, Azer saw he wasn't alone, as other ponies looked out to see what looked like an oddly shaped cloud was heading towards the city.
"What's that?" Butch asked, looking out the window. "Some cloud?"
"No...it's too fast.." Talon added, looking at the cloud. "And moving against the wind."
At the exact same time
While Ocean handled his business with his colleague, Crescent and Ruby walked down the streets of the Crystal Empire. Not really a fan of the Empire, Crescent wasn't in the best mood; but he bared it, for Ruby's sake, who was currently enjoying a crystal ice-cream cone. It was rather cute to watch Ruby enjoying her frozen treat, she was like a filly in the big city. So full of happiness and so full of excitement. It made Crescent's stay that much more tolerable.
"This is so amazing!" Ruby was a happy as a schoolmare. "I never knew the Crystal Empire was just so big and shiny!"
"Yeah. Well it's not always like this." Crescent sighed, resting on a nearby bench. "Remember who's in charge here."
"Look." Ruby said sternly, looking Crescent deep in the eyes. "Cadance has been nothing but supportive, and I couldn't give a rat's ass about what Armor thinks." She then hugged her stallion. "I just care what you think. So. Don't. You. Worry."
"I know."Crescent looked away with a blush. "But it's just--What's that?"
Looking in the distance, Crescent, Ruby, and several other crystal ponies looked at the same strange 'cloud'.
"What's that?" Crescent asked, then he was grabbed at by Ruby.
"We need to go NOW!" Ruby said, almost dragging Crescent.
"What's going on?" Crescent said, following Ruby, who was in full gallop.
"That's not a cloud, it's an invasion!" Ruby said.
"How would you know." Crescent asked.
"No time, we have to warn the castle." Ruby said, then her thoughts started racing. 'Why are Misshapen here? They shouldn't even have a nest close to the Crystal Empire.'
Despite galloping as fast as they could move, Crescent and Ruby reached the castle but-
CRASH...BANG...BOOM
A large blast of explosive magic struck the castle, not damaging it severely but shaking the foundations. Before anypony could realize it, the mass of Misshapen Changeling had already reached the city limits. Pouncing and attacking anypony that couldn't run fast enough. Unlike normal Changelings, who can drain love without harming the victim, Misshapen lack such subtly and bite hard on the back of their victims' heads, hard enough to draw blood, but not enough to cause major damages, only inflict pain. From there, the Misshapen would drain all feeling out of the minds of their targets. Like bloodsuckers, Misshapen drained their victims of all emotion, releasing their fangs, and leaving the pony blank faced and dead in the eye, not dead but not much alive either. You could almost call it soulless.
"What the hell are those!?" Crescent said, charging at one of the Misshapen, knocking it off a pony. Crescent looked at the scared crystal pony. "Get to safety!" The crystal pony nodded and ran towards the castle, just like several other groups of crystal ponies. "Good. now for-" Crescent couldn't finish his sentence before the Misshapen he knocked down not only got up buck attempted to strike at his neck. Thankfully Crescent landed on his hooves quickly, his horn now ignited red in color. Crescent could feel his blood almost warm up from the small excitement that was building up. The slits in his eyes thinned as a fanged smile spread across his lips. "Looks like this trip just got better."
Back to Talon, Azer, and Butch
"What the hell are these things!?" Azer said, bucking a Misshapen's face off a crystal pony. "Changelings? But these look different."
"Less talky, more punchy." Butch said, punching an incoming Misshapen, there was a faint sound of bone and teeth breaking from the impact.
"Wait. So while we're working, you're lazy as all hell." Azer asked, kicking another Misshapen to the ground, stomping its head into the ground with a crunch. "But when it comes to some crazy invasion of Changelings, that's when you get off your flank to do something?!"
"Well I can't sleep in this." Butch joked, punching at the Misshapen. "So might as well hit the snooze button."
Right from behind a Misshapen knocked at Butch's head, sinking it's teeth deep into Butch. The his ears perked up as the faint sound of his flesh tearing. After the Misshapen latched on, Butch could feel something being drained from him, the color slowly leaving his face as the creature fed. Before the Misshapen could finish feeding, Talon came from behind and smacked the Misshapen off with one of the large basses from inside the music store.
"Butch!" Azer said, knocking Misshapen out of the way as he went to his brother. "We have to get him inside."
Azer and Talon were able to drag the weakened Butch into the store, quickly barricading the door with chairs, and large instruments. Bringing Butch to the counter, Azer tried to clean the wound with a rag.
"Doesn't look infected, but what did that thing do to you?" Azer asked, grabbing bandages and wrapping up the wound.
"I don't know." Butch answered, his breathing was exhausted and heavy. "It's like I ran a marathon and relived a lot of bad memories at once. I feel so flushed and numb."
"Well you should be fine." Azer washed the wound with a wet rag. "Just, and I can't believe I'm saying this, get some rest."
"On it." Butch chuckled weakly, before passing out.
"I'm sorry." Talon said. "If I was faster."
"It's not your fault Talon. You did what you could." Azer said. "For now all we can do is wait for this to pass." Azer cautiously looked out the window. "They seem to be only attacking ponies on the streets. So most ponies will either get to the castle or get indoors. Hopefully these Changelings leave soon."
Back to Crescent and Ruby
"This is just ridiculous." Crescent said, breathing heavily.
It's now been an hour the Misshapen attacked and Crescent was almost ankle deep in Changeling intestines. His hooves and most of his legs were coated with green blood, as well as a few small spatters on his face and body. Surrounding him were several hissing and fang bared Misshapen, and at his hooves were the hacked and hewed bodies of the Misshapen that got too close. Floating around his, coated in Misshapen blood were four, red hued, magical materialized swords. Keeping his eyes on the enemy around him, Crescent took a deep breath, focusing on each of the Misshapens' movements.
"At least it's not real Changelings I'm killing." Crescent sighed a bit in relief. "Here they come!"
From the left, two charged at Crescent, only to have a sword cut one through the head at eye level, and the other stabbed through the mouth and out the back of the head. Four more came in from the right an front. Pulling out the two swords he just used, thrust them both into a single Misshapen, then with a swift motion, cutting the screeching creature apart.As he finished off the other three, one tried to sneak up from behind. Before it had a chance to bite Crescent, it's both took a face full of Ruby's hoof; breaking the teeth and shattering the face into bloody fragments.
"Thanks." Crescent smiled, cutting down another. "These things are endless."
"Well at least since we got all their attention, nopony but us can get hurt." Ruby smiled, back kicking an attacking Misshapen.
"But we need a plan, or something." Crescent said before something caught the corner of his eye.
Running down the streets, Stone Cold, carrying Fusion charged past the horde, seemingly being ignored by the Misshapen.
"Well that's something." Crescent said, aiming one of his swords at the running stallion. Throwing the sword at Stone, to Crescent's disappointment, the sword didn't slow Stone down, but without him knowing, knocked one of his smaller saddle bags off. "Damn, I missed!"
"Go after it." Ruby said. "I got this."
"You sure?" Crescent asked.
"Who do you think you're talking to?" Ruby chuckled a bit.
"True." Crescent chuckled as well, running after Stone Cold. "Stay alive!"
"Of course." Ruby said to herself, knowing Crescent was out of earshot. Her focus now switched to the Misshapen. "Alright children." Ruby's eyes glowed a faint amber for a moment. "Let's dance."
Moving as fast as his legs could carry, Crescent was finally catching up to the large stallion. As he galloped, he summoned another two swords, all six now slicing through the Misshapen that dare try to block his path. His coat was becoming greener and greener with blood. Realizing he wasn't going to catch up with the large pony, Crescent decided on a different approach. Jumping in the air, Crescent kicked off a flying Misshapen and then off a nearby building, allowing him to pick up speed and charge at Stone, cutting off his path of escape.
"Caught you!" Crescent said in a semi-victorious tone. "Now where left to run."
"You assume I am some enemy?" Stone inquired.
"Well the whole carrying an unconscious pony, and not being attacked by those things kinda gave it away." Crescent pointed out.
"I see." Stone sighed. "It seems you are smarter than you appear. Can I convince you to simply step aside, I do not wish to crush you."
"Ehh no big guy." Crescent positioned himself in a ready stance, the six swords aimed at Stone.
"Your choice." Stone said, securing Fusion's body on his back. "Just remember, this was your choice."
Crescent charged in with a straight approach, slashing downwards between Stone's shoulder and collar; only to have the blade strike Stone's flesh and then stop. The sword didn't cut. Stone remained still and standing in place as Crescent jumped back and continued his assault, slashing and hacking at Stone's body with his swords, picking up speed and motion with each slash. Left, right, forward, behind, Crescent remained in constant motion, making any attempt to strike back difficult. But regardless of his speed and attack, the swords never broke Stone's skin.
"Why! Won't! It! CUT!?" Crescent said, summoning more ad more swords, throwing them and hacking at Stone's body. But the throws blades were only knocked off as if they struck a hard surface. Frustrated, Crescent gathered all the swords he summoned into a singular large blade, it was easily twice the size of Crescent's body, the edge of the blade was more serrated than smooth, and it glowed a a birght red and gold; he was to attack from the side. "What's with your-"
Crescent couldn't finish his sentence when he felt a hard force strike the side of his body, around the area of his ribs. A loud crack echoed through Crescent's body as he looked at what struck him. His eyes widened as he realized that the force was Stone's own crystal hoof. Despite Crescent's distance and speed, Stone's crystal arm not only managed to predict where Crescent would be but it even extended to over twice it's length to knock Crescent down; crashing into a nearby building, blood coughed from Crescent's mouth upon impact. Two, maybe three of his ribs were now either severely fractured or broken. The impact also numbed his body, he felt incapable of moving.
"Remember two things." Stone said approaching Crescent, his large mass overshadowing Crescent's battered, bruised, and bloodied body. "You chose to fight me, but I chose to spare you. Remember that." Stone then turned and continued running, but unbeknownst to him, during Crescent's attack, one of the saddlebags torn a small hole, allowing one of the strange purple crystal fragments to fall to the ground near Crescent. The last thing Crescent saw before his eye blacked out were the sight of the Misshapen flying out of the city like a swarm of mutated, insectoid birds.
A few hours later
"He's waking up." Was the next thing Crescent remember hearing as a familiar voice washed over him. His eyes opened up to see a worried looking Ruby looking over him. "Crescent. Can you hear me?"
"Ugh...Ruby?" Crescent said in a groggy tone, trying to look around. With his half awake eyes, Crescent saw he was in some form of infirmary. "What happened?"
"We found you beaten and half broken against a building." Armor answered that question, walking in Crescent's view. "Did you see a large Earth stallion with crystal forearms while you were fighting those...things?"
Though Crescent didn't want to answer Armor's question, one look at Ruby showed there was no harm in that. "Yeah, we found and he...got away."
"Great, just great." Armor said, his expression of disappointment did not escape Crescent, but currently he was too weak to argue back. "Did he have anyone else with him?"
"Some pony, covered in robes, and a lot of saddle bags." Crescent answered. "When I cut one open, it dropped-"
"A strange purple crystal?" Ocean answered, walking into view. "That stallion's name was Stone Cold, and the pony he took with hims was my colleague Fusion, and to make matters worse, he took the crystals we were studying."
"What would he want with those crystals?" Armor asked.
"I don't know." Ocean answered. "This Changeling attack came when we were trying to figure it out, and Stone proved to be working for someone else before he knocked me out."
"Those weren't Changelings!" Ruby snapped a little, a blush of emotion went across her face. "They were Misshapen."
"They're what?" Armor asked, his tone was so full of annoyance, that it was obvious he didn't enjoy Ruby's presence, let alone her talking.
"Those were reject Changelings." Ruby explained in a vague description and tone, avoiding eye contact with both Armor and Ocean. "Changeling that never lived in the Changeling Hive and thus don't follow Queen Chrysalis's orders."
"I don't care what the specifics are, they were Changelings and they attacked us." Armor gesture to the other injured and afflicted crystal ponies. Many had no color on them, others were half faded in color, covered in deep and bloodied bite marks. "I plan to find whatever cave they live in and burn it. As well as any Changeling that tries to stop me." Armor then stormed off in frustration.
'interesting.' Ocean thought adjusting his scarf to cover his mouth and tip of his snout. 'Shining Armor is usually known to be composed under pressure, but became so tense and agitated after Ruby talked. And what does he mean by "any Changeling"? And Ruby, how did she know these know these Changelings were a different grouping from the Changeling Hive? Hmmm.'
"What do we do now?" Crescent asked, leaning his head back on the infirmary pillow it was resting on.
"For now we recover." Ocean suggested. "You suffered several fractures, lacerations, bite mark, though odd how there are no signs of infection, so you need to recover. I was in the castle so these "Misshapen" as Ruby called them didn't bother me." Then he looked at Ruby. "And what about you? When we found you, many of those Misshapen seemed to flee from you rather than attack you."
"I'm not as defenseless as I look Ocean." Ruby rubbed the back of her head as she seemed to congratulated herself.
'Many of the bodies found near her had several burn marks, magical burn marks.' Ocean thought over. 'Crescent doesn't use fire based spells. So who burned those Misshapen?'
In the same infirmary, but in a different section
"He'll be fine right?" Azer asked the crystal nurse.
"Yes." The nurse smiled. "He's suffered minor exhaustion an loss of complexion, but he'll recover. Thankfully one of those things didn't stay on him for too long."
"Yeah...thanks." Azer said, looking at his resting brother, Talon was there besides him.
"I'm sorry I couldn't do anything." Talon said in a sad tone.
"No, you did what you could." Azer said. "Thank you for saving him though. I wouldn't have been able to get to him in time if you weren't there."
"I-I just wish I could've done more." Talon said.
"He's alive and will recover. That's good enough for me." Azer said. "But if you could, I need to go back to the shop, I need to grab something. Can you stay and watch him?"
"Sure." Talon smiled.
Azer went down the ruined streets, paramedic ponies grabbing victims of the Misshapen. Thankfully there seemed to be no fatalities,, but the damage to the streets and buildings would cost a lot to repair. As he turned a corner towards the music store, a small saddle bag caught Azer's eye.
Opening it, Azer found the saddle bag was filled with small fragments of the strange purple crystal. "What's this?"
"Have you finished your report?" Armor asked the guard.
"Yes sir." The guard answered, reading off a long list. "Although there is several hundreds to thousands of bits worth of damage, and countless injured, there are no fatalities."
"That's good." Armor sighed in relief. "And what have you found about the afflicted?"
"Our medical scans shows that the victims' comatose state is temporarily." Ocean answered, with two nurses by his side. "Whatever these Changeling, these Misshapen, as Ruby called them, they only fed on the ponies' emotions and consciousness. They'll wake up in a few days, with minor cuts and scraps."
"That's a relief." Cadance said, sitting in her throne. "Are there any long term effects of these Misshapen."
"As far as we can hypothesis, there are no long term effects." Ocean explained, adjusting his scarf. "The loss of color seems to be a visual indication that the Misshapen fed."
"Have we found their nest?" Armor asked.
"No but there might be a way to track them." Ocean said.
"How?" Armor asked.
"It has to do with this." Ocean pulled out the crystal fragment. "This fragment that was found by Crescent seems to resonate slightly in a direct every couple hours. It's minute and faint, but traceable. Given some time, I can track down the fragments Stone stole."
"What does it matter about Stone." Armor snapped. "I want those Changelings found!"
"That's my point Shining Armor." Ocean answered, remaining calm. "According to Crescent's report on the matter, Stone seemed to be greatly ignored by the Misshapen, so it is reason to believe Stone and the Misshapen may be connected."
"So we find Stone, we find the Changelings?" Armor inquired.
"My thoughts exactly." Ocean answered. "Give me time, a day at most and I should be able to track a direction."
"Fine, but one day." Armor said. "The longer we wait, the farther those creatures flee."
"Captain!" A guard ran in shouting as if in a panic.
"Report!" Armor ordered.
"It's..uh well... I don't know how else to report this sir, but" The guard was nervous and a little scared.
"Speak up, what is it?!" Armor was losing patience.
"Queen Chrysalis and a small envoy of Changelings are here sir." The guard finally reported.
"WHAT!!??" Armor's head almost exploded with rage. "What is that THING doing here?!"
"I believe I can answer that my dear Shining Armor." Chrysalis said, walking into the room.
"What are you doing here?!" Armor was almost in a battle stance.
"Why to help of course." Chrysalis answered in a calm manner. "As you obviously know. The Crystal Empire supplies some of its love to my Hive. But it seemed one of the transporters were destroyed." Chrysalis could see Armor not caring. "Given how much you hate my kind, I suspected you've cheated us on our arrangement. But when my spies reported back, it seems you were attacked by the Misshapen."
"Cut the crap!" Armor snapped. "I know you sent those things to attack us!"
"Now Shining Armor. I can humor your hatred for my kind, and even your rude behavior." Chrysalis's expression started becoming cold, as if her stare was aimed to pierce through Armor's head. "But I will NOT tolerate you saying the Misshapen are mine! Those creatures are failures, rejects, abominations cast out of my Hive for their imperfections. What they do has NOTHING to do with me!"
Before Armor could respond, not that it would help as he was slightly backing down. Thankfully Cadance interrupted. "I am sorry for that Chrysalis. We were unaware that there were many types of Changelings out there. And we greatly appreciate whatever help you can give. And any knowledge you can give us would be greatly beneficial."
"Now that is a proper way of asking." Chrysalis calmed down, turning her gaze to Cadance. "Luckily for you, I happen to know where the Misshapen nest."
"Then let's just go there and burn those creatures away!" Armor demanded action.
"As much as I enjoy the idea of ridding Equestria of those failures, there is no rush." Chrysalis explained. "I've noticed that many of your citizens have been afflicted by the Misshapen, it would be better to treat your injured before attacking the Misshapen. They are stupid and barbaric creatures, so they won't move from their nest anytime soon."
Armor could only cringe in frustration before storming out of the room in anger. Leaving the others in the room to finish the discussion. Ocean remained and kept his eye on everything that occurred.
'I knew Shining Armor had a lot of issues with the Changelings after his wedding, but I never expected it to be this severe.' Ocean thought. "Your highness, I'll leave to continue my research."
"I know you can succeed." Cadance smiled, letting Ocean leave the room. She then turned to Chrysalis. "I'm sorry for Armor, he still hasn't put the wedding incident behind him."
"Clearly." Chrysalis answered. "So long as my Hive receives their love shipments, he can have whatever opinion of my kind as he wants."
Back at the medical center, Ruby continued to help Crescent recover. She was even going so far as to peel an apple for him. The only other pony in the room was Ocean, finishing what he discussed with Cadance, Armor, and Chrysalis.
"So that's it." Ocean finished. "Chrysalis and her changelings are helping the afflicted ponies recover."
"I don't trust her." Ruby said aloud. 'Why would she be here so soon after the Misshapen attacked. I don't like this.'
"Either way, we'll find that nest." Crescent said, thinking back to his fight with Stone Cold. "And you're sure that pony with the crystal arms will be there?"
"I'm sure, roughly ninety percent." Ocean answered, before turning to leave. "I'll look into Fusion's lab, there may be something there."
"How is he nurse?" Azer asked the nurse looking after Butch.
"Your brother is one of the lucky ones who will make a speedy recovery." The nurse explained. "He's already regained consciousness and his complexion is returning."
"Good." Azer sighed in relief, then looked over to his brother. "How do you feel Butch?"
"I had a great nap." Butch yawned, stretching his arms.
"Oh good." Azer sighed again. "At least you're fine."
"Yeah, thank Celestia." Talon said. "I was worried you weren't going to get up."
"You should still stay in bed fro a while longer." The nurse suggested.
"Sure, I can do that." Butch said, laying back.
"Just don't rest too long." Azer said. "We still need to clean up the shop."
"Ugh." Butch groaned a little. "Is my napping spot okay?"
"I'm not even going to answer that." Azer laughed a little, happy his brother recovered. "What about you Talon, have you been able to find those ponies?"
"Not yet." Talon sighed in dissatisfaction. "I saw one of them, Crescent his name is run after this large stallion carrying another pony."
"Was this stallion wearing any saddle bags?" Azer asked.
"Maybe. I couldn't really tell." Talon said.
"Well I found this saddle bag outside the shop." Azer showed Talon the small saddle bag full of the small crystals.
"Hmm, I wonder what these are?" Talon asked aloud.
"If they're worth anything, I plan to see what I can do with them." Azer said, with a small chuckle. "Fixing a shop isn't cheap."
"It doesn't make sense." Ocean stressed himself, looking around Fusion's half destroyed lab. "I understand that Stone ponynapped Fusion and the crystals, but was destroying the lab REALLY NECESSARY!!!?"
Looking around, Ocean couldn't find a single shard of the crystals. Reluctantly, Ocean placed the one he recovered from Crescent on the table, and sat down, his hooves on his forehead.
"This is ridiculous." Ocean said, with a sigh of annoyance. "I've known Fusion for years now, it's got to have something to help. Something it kept hidden, away in case of anypony trying to steal their research."
It was by luck or fortune that the crystal illuminated slightly and giggled a bit. Looking at it, Ocean's eyes almost twinkled with a bit of excitement. "What's this?" Ocean said aloud, watching the crystal vibrate and jitter at a faster pace; one end of it slowly turned towards a certain direction. "That's it!" Ocean quickly grabbed the crystal and galloped out of the room as fast as he could move.
A slice to the left, a hoof to the right, and a small blast of red hued magic to the center; the training dummy fell in three pieces. Crescent was sweating from his workout, his body still sore from his beating at the hoof of Stone, but he continued on.
"Set up the next dummy." Crescent asked a guard.
"Sir. You have gone through over a dozen test dummies." The guard replied. "I think that's enough for today."
"He's right." Ruby said, trying to talk Crescent out of training. "You're body is still recovering. You'll get your chance but not like this."
"Ugh alright." Crescent submitted, sending his swords away and relaxing himself. "I just hope Ocean finishes soon."
It was by Celestia or Luna's good graces that a guard came galloping up to Ruby and Crescent. "Ruby Wing and Crescent Blade. Princess Cadance and Shining Armor are requesting you both in the throne room immediately."
"By name?" Crescent raised an eyebrow. "Armor requested us by name."
"Yes sir." The guard replied. "I was told by Shining Armor that your associate Ocean Stardust finished his research and is ready to brief. Princess Cadance believes you all should be present before beginning."
"Well that makes more sense." Ruby mumbled a little.
"Well, at least I didn't have to wait long." Crescent hated being near Armor but he'd deal with it if it meant he had a shot at Stone. "Let's get this over with."
As the guard escorted the two to the throne room, they both noticed the rise in normal Changelings around. It made Ruby feel a little uncomfortable to see them. Crescent saw this and without speaking, tapped Ruby on the shoulder, assuring her everything would be fine. But once the throne room door was opened, a new sensation struck Ruby. The moment Ruby looked into the room and saw Queen Chrysalis smiling, almost in an arrogant fashion, Ruby almost either fled the room as fast as her wings could carry or wanted to take a large object and squish the changeling queen.
"Relax." Crescent said, putting his hoof on Ruby's shoulder, reassuring her again.
"Ah you've arrived." Cadance greeted, then turned to Ocean. "Now we can begin."
"One moment m dear Cadance." Chrysalis interrupted, walking to Crescent and Ruby, her eyes more fixed on Crescent. "I hear you are the stallion who killed many Misshapen."
"Yes..." Crescent couldn't tell is Chrysalis was angry or happy, or whatever; her expression was impossible to place.
"Well then..." Chrysalis raised a hoof to Crescent's shoulder."Very good." Crescent maintained a focused expression but he was confused. "It's so delightful that you gave those failed things what they deserve...a swift and effective death."
"We didn't take pleasure in killing Changelings." Ruby interrupted, if her stare was any more intense, it would melt Chrysalis's head off.
Chrysalis, completely unfazed by Ruby's comments, faced the mare. "And why you feel anything for those things my dear? It's no different than taking out trash or simply preforming some other menial task. You simply do it."
Before Ruby could respond to this, Ocean cleared his throat to get the crowd's attention. "Sorry but I would like to begin."
"Oh please do." Chrysalis smiled kindly, turning slightly away from Ruby. She wasn't sure, but Ruby could almost see some twinkle in Chrysalis's eye and an angry sneer on her lips for merely an instant, too fast to be caught.
"Now as you all know, these Misshapen come from a nest somewhere close to the Crystal Empire. That is the only way they could've gotten here and out with such speed and effectiveness means that either they received help from somepony, most likely a Changeling from your Hive, Queen Chrysalis. Or their nest is close within the borders." Ocean explained his findings. "But as you yourself have stated and shown Queen Chrysalis, neither you, nor any Changelings from your Hive seem to like the Misshapen long enough to assist them and would sooner kill them. So we have to go with the latter; so where would their nest be?"
"Well there are numerous caves around our borders." Armor answered, using his magic to illuminate an ethereal map of the Crystal Empire territories. Large "X" marks hung over all the caves within the borders. "But we've never had the time or resources to fully explore the caves."
"Well that is a possible place for them." Chrysalis stepped towards the map. "But despite how different we are, the Misshapen are still Changelings...to a degree. The cold is not something they enjoy." Chrysalis's own horn ignited and pointed at a cave more towards the edges of the borders. "This cave is the most ideal, as it's close enough the border to avoid both the cold nights and detection, but close enough where if needed or desperate, the Misshapen would go towards the Crystal Empire."
"I would have to agree." Ocean said, levitating out the strange crystal. The crystal shivered slightly, and then leaned forward, pointing in the direction towards the cave Chrysalis pointed to. "This crystal is pointing towards the bulk Stone stole. And seeing as how the Misshapen ignored him. It is possible he may have been the one that made some form of deal with the Misshapen. Or at the very least, the organization he claims to be working for."
"Interesting." Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. "The Misshapen actually forming deals, bargains, and connections. The very thought is disgusting enough."
"We have the location." Armor was all too excited to get to the cave. "We'll depart immediately!"
"No." Chrysalis disagreed. "As much as i know you'd love slaughtering the Misshapen, I feel you are better suited here."
"What?!" Armor snapped. "They attacked my citizens, I should be the first in those caves to kill them all."
"I have no doubt you would." Chrysalis stated. "But as Ocean here explained, this is the Misshapen Nest. And a strong pony working for some unknown group is leading them. You cannot find answers simply by hacking and hewing everything in the cave. I recommend a smaller team."
"In that case." Cadance said, making sure Armor didn't get a chance to respond. "I would recommend Ocean Stardust, Ruby Wing, and Crescent Blade for this."
"Ruby Wing?" Chrysalis said, looking at Ruby. Her expression was almost smug for some reason. "Such a cute name. I agree Cadance. Crescent seems capable enough to handle the Misshapen in a subtle and swift manner."
"Then it's decided." Cadance nodded, ending the briefing. "Ocean, Ruby, and Crescent. You three will go to the Misshapen cave, and find out what you know. You are only to fight if you need to. Engaging an enemy is the secondary objective. Only fight if there's no other option."
"Understood." Ocean answered, as Ruby and Crescent simply nodded in response. 'I understand myself and maybe Ruby, but Crescent is the opposite of subtle. Could this factor into how he and Ruby can't be away from each other for too long?'
Back at the Azer and Butch's music shop, the brothers were nearing completion of the clean up of broken glass and busted instruments.
"Well this sucks." Butch complained.
"I know. This shop meant a lot." Azer sighed. "It might cost more than that crystal to pay for the repairs."
"Not that Azer." butch said, moving the basses and cellos out of the way, revealing his sleeping spot was under rubble. "My napping zone is ruined bro!"
"Uhh just get back to cleaning." Azer sighed.
"Speaking of, where's Talon." Butch asked.
Just then, Talon all but burst into the room. "I got it, I got it! I know how to help!"
"He's right there." Azer chuckled a bit as the door almost knocked Butch in the face. "What did you find out?"
"Well I saw Crescent and Ruby being escorted by guards to the palace. So I still couldn't get in, but because the guards are too distracted with the Changelings and other injured, I was able to fly up to the throne room window and eavesdrop everything." Talon explained, a joyous look in his eye at the chance of repaying his debt. "Turns out that saddle bag you found with the crystals is what they've been looking for. We can return it to them,"
"Not a bad idea." Azer nodded. "We'll turn it into the guards and they can bring to-"
"No!" Talon objected, grabbing the saddle bag of crystals. "If I'm to return these. It has to be face to face."
"This is it." Ocean told his companions as they saw he entrance to the cave.
Thankfully the weather was favorable. The trip to the cave was little over an hour trot, and on the way, there were no signs of the Misshapen. It was odd but, in this case, the group was okay with this absence. The entrance of the cave was large and showed no signs of anything living there. Probably was the reason the Misshapen lived here. Looking at the crystal, that he was now wearing around his neck, under the scarf, Ocean saw the crystal tip and point in the direction towards the cave; so this had to be it.
"Just remember." Ocean reminded his friends as they entered the cave, his voice more as a whisper. "No fighting unless they attack first."
"Fine." Crescent, who was now wearing a bit of his guard armor. A simple dark red and silver chest piece with his cutie mark on the upper right and a couple small spikes on the shoulder guards.
As the three continued in the cave, oddly enough, luminescent mushrooms and moss illuminated the cave tunnels. As much as Ocean wanted to save a couple samples for research, he had no time. There was no talking, though it didn't seem to matter. The cave was oddly empty, there were no Misshapen anywhere. Where could they have all gone? As the group neared what could be the center of the cave, a voice seemed to softly echo down the tunnels.
"It's almost done." A male voice, that was immediately recognized as Stone Cold's, seemed to be talking to a cloaked pony figure.
"Good, I was getting tired of these caves." The cloaked pony, who was most likely a mare due to the sound of her voice, as pacing back and forth in a bored manner.
"We shall spend as long as need be for our Master." Stone said calmly. "The next big surge shall be the last needed for the pillar."
"That's what that pony said?" The mare giggled a little in a sick manner. "Shame that pony's forehead gem was what we needed. Oh the sound it made when I took the gem out. I've never seen a body contort like that, and all the blood. Ohhhh....it still sends a shiver through me."
'Fusion...dead...' Ocean's mind raced, he wanted to charge in but had to think of the mission. He would avenge his old friend later.
"I did not take pleasure in Fusion's death." Stone said calmly, with small bits of regret. "I am sorry Fusion had to die for our cause. But I do hope that burial I gave it will suffice."
"Oh Stone, such a softie." The mare teased. "Though if you didn't waste time on that grave, then we'd be out of here faster. The pheromone I made that blocks those weird Changelings can only last for so long."
"The surge is almost here. Just a little lo-" Stone then looked in the direction of Ocean's group. "We have company. Come out now, we will not harm you if you surrender."
Ocean quickly thought of every possible way to get through this, but ultimately knew the answer. He gestured Ruby and Crescent to stay hidden as he walked into the open.
"Ocean Stardust." Stone was a tad surprised by this arrival. "I should have known you were able to find us. I do hope me strike to your head has not caused any damage."
"A small headache but all together fine thank you." Ocean remained calm. "My...friend sends his regards."
"That threshal I fought?" Stone asked. "He's alive...good, I didn't want to fight him but gave me no choice."
"He's alive and fine. Recovering soundly back at the Empire." Ocean said, tapping his back off slightly, signalling Crescent and Ruby to sneak around the two. "But tell me, did Fusion suffer?"
"You heard that?" Stone said sadly. "I wish Fusion's death could've been avoided, or at least painless. But it wasn't. Fusion's life suit was powered by the gem. The removal of it cause it a painful death."
"I see." Ocean controlled his emotions. "I heard you gave Fusion a proper burial." Ocean then looked at the crystals Stone stole, but this time it was not a collection of small stones, and shards, but three large chunks. "But what are these crystals?"
"Something older than Equestria and my master wants them." Stone said. "I;m sorry but that's all I can say."
"Yeah and it's a shame that your friends suck at hiding." The mare teased, throwing a small vial out from her cloak.
The vial broke against the wall, shattering and the chemicals inside erupted in a flash of bright light illuminating the room, and revealing Crescent and Ruby. The flash seemed to be a bit more effective on Crescent, due to his light sensitive eyes, the flash was more painful than it was blinding. Without a second thought, or any real vision, Crescent charged at Stone's direction. with his horn ready for battle. Stone stood solid, unmoving, but his mare companion threw three more vials, each cracking at Ocean, Ruby, and Crescent's hooves, becoming a paste that stuck them to the ground. The paste was white and cold, and oddly enough, it felt as if their bodies were draining.
"This is!" Ocean realized to late what the paste was.
"Extract from the saliva of a cockatrice." The mare answered. "When exposed to oxygen, it wraps around a target, sticking them in place."
"Cleaver." Ocean had to compliment this mare's attack. "What do you plan to do now?"
"Oh you'll see." The mare removed the cloak's hood and moved the rest of her cloak to the side of her body, revealing herself. The mare's body was light blue in color. Her mane was long and wavy, dark blue in color with white streaks through it. Her pinkish purple eyes looked over the stuck group with the same eyes a predator has on prey. "Maybe I'll see how many toxins I can shove down your throats before you explode. Oh maybe you'll gush from the mouth. Ohhhhh the things I could do."
"Ishtar!" Stone raised his voice. "The Master said nopony needs to die if it can be avoided. Just leave the solvent here." Stone gestured to a rock nearby. "The next surge is about to begin, when it's over, we leave."
"Oh Stone, are you really gonna kill my fun now." Ishtar groaned. "I'm sure they can live without a few organs."
"Ishtar...: Stone lifted up a large clever-like axe, it had a small pink cloth tied close to the blade, and the blade was crusted in dried blood. "Don't make me repeat myself."
"Ugh fair enough." Ishtar sighed, looking at Ocean in disappointment. Just then, a small glint caught her eye. "Oh well look at this." Reaching towards Ocean's neck, Ishtar ripped the crystal off Ocean's neck. "Hey Stone, looks like this one brought us a gift." Ishtar tossed the crystal at Stone, who in tern caught it and added it to the others.
"This is just what we needed. Thank you Ocean." Stone said as the crystals began glowing and vibrated back and forth, drawing closer to each other. Soon enough the crystals merged together, forming not another shard, or chunk, but a solid purple pillar of crystal. "Finally, the next pillar."
"So these crystals become that?" Ocean asked, trying to find a way to keep Stone longer, to draw out some answers. "For what reason? What are these pillars?"
"I am sorry Ocean." Stone said, not falling for Ocean's stalling. "But I cannot answer that question." Picking up the pillar and his axe, Stone gestured Ishtar it was time to leave. "All I can say is to go back the the Crystal Empire. I promise that all we wanted were these crystals. There will be no more attacks on the Crystal Empire."
"Oh sure." Ruby finally spoke up. "And what, you leave us here for the Misshapen to get us!"
"Misshapen? That's what they're called." Ishtar laughed. "They're not even here. After feeding on love, or whatever they did, they're apparently flying to the main Changeling Hive. Something about trying to buy their way into the Hive."
"That would never work." Ruby mumbled.
"All I know is Changelings hate those messed up bugs." Ishtar laughed sadistically. "I bet the Changelings will cut up those bugs before they'll get a chance to do anything. Oh that would be fun to watch." Ishtar was clearly enjoying herself too much. "But that's not what's going to happen to you. I'll leave this vial of the solvent here and hopefully if you're strong enough to get it, it'll melt away that paste."
Without any other word, Stone and Ishtar left the three ponies. Because the paste has been draining Crescent's and Ocean's magic, it was hard but Ocean was able to get his horn powered up enough to just barely grab the vial.
"I got it." Ocean said, floating the vial to his, carefully opening it and pouring a few drops on the paste.
Not instantly but relatively quickly, the paste melted away, as if it was never there to start with. Finally able to free himself, Ocean walked forward, and turned around to free his companions. But instead, he corked the vial.
"What are you doing Ocean?" Crescent asked.
"I'm sorry Crescent, but I can't let you or Ruby go until you answer my questions." Ocean said sternly.
"What are you talking about?" Crescent asked, getting annoyed.
"Your friend Ruby Wing." Ocean looked at Ruby. "She's not a pegasus is she? First I thought it was weird that Princess Luna herself would make sure Ruby couldn't leave your side for too long. This meant she must be either dangerous or needed protection. Secondly, she had information on the Misshapen before any of us even considered the idea that they weren't normal Changelings. Third, the Misshapen found near her had severe burn marks and chunks missing due to a magic blast. A style I know you don't use." Ocean then looked back at Ruby, who was panting in the same manner as Crescent. "And finally, this paste you are in seems to drain magic power found in unicorns or other magic users. So why is it Ruby is suffering the same effects as us. So I'll free you both, when you tell me who Ruby Wing really is."
Crescent could only cringe in frustration. He clearly didn't want to answer, but he knew the answer. Ruby, on the other had realized she had no choice. "Okay, I'll tell you. Or better, I'll show you."
Taking a deep breath, from her legs going up, Ruby's body became covered in a pinkish red fire that spread throughout her body. When it cleared, her body was a darker shade of grey, she had no cutie mark, she had holes and chunks out of her legs, she had bug-like wings, a crooked horn, and finally her eyes were a singular color of amber.
'I expected something, but not this remarkable.' Ocean thought with a little excitement that he was right.
"My name isn't Ruby Wing." Ruby said. "My name is Blood Steel, I'm a Changeling formally from Chrysalis's hive."
Making his way through the dirt streets of the simple town of Ponyville, Ocean remained focused on his objective. But anypony looking at him would easily assume he was really really pissed off.
"(Why Crescent of all ponies?)" Ocean thought to himself. "(It's bad enough I have to ask the most inexperienced Princess for a guard but it had to be the one pony I can't stand.)"
Despite his mental rants, Ocean reached the crystal-like tree that was the Castle of Harmony. Without a word or another thought, Ocean took a deep breath and walked in. The interior was very clean and looks to have been recently polished. Ocean assumed Rarity, the Element of Generosity had some guards or servants keep the walls clean. Several tapestries and other items lined the polished crystal wall, all appeared to be remnants from the old Alicorn Castle. At the end if this hallway was the Council of Harmony chambers. Ocean nodded at the guard and the guard let him in.
The interior of the room was quite spacious and like everything else, made of crystal. In the center of the room was a circular formation of six thrones, each with the Elements of Harmony's individual cutie marks. When Princess Twilight first established this Castle, everypony thought to call this the throne room. But seeing as how Twilight wanted to make her friends equal in authority to her or at least close enough, the room became a council chamber. Not to his surprise, the last pony Ocean wanted to see today was already in the center of the room.
"Hello Ocean Stardust." Twilight greeted kindly.
"S-sorry for calling you here." Fluttershy, the Element of Kindness said from her throne.
Ocean did a quick look and saw that only Twilight, Element of Magic/Friendship, Rainbow Dash, Element of Loyalty, and Fluttershy were the only Elements in the room.
"Are we to wait for the other three to arrive?" Ocean asked.
"I'm afraid not." Twilight answered. "Rarity is working on new projects."
"Applejack is doing some family thing." Rainbow waved her hoof.
"And Pinkie Pie is doing a birthday party for the twins." Fluttershy answered.
"So what have you learned so far?" Twilight asked.
"There is a strange reading in what we now believe in the far north." Ocean explained. "This energy wave was quick and only by accident did our long range scanner pick up any of it. We believe it is some form of Alicorn magic or something of equal power."
"Well that is something." Crescent interrupted. "So just send a few guards to pick up the thing, I don't see why I have to go."
"The reason being Crescent." Ocean interrupted. "Is because if this energy source is a living creature, then coming in with swords drawn will possibly frighten it. That is why I am asking you reconsider sending this guard with me. I would rather take a guard better at being discreet or even no guard at all."
"I can kick your flank to the ground!" Crescent interjected with a grimace. "If that's not discreet enough for you."
"Last thing I want is to get into a screaming match with some mindless brute." Ocean sighed an insult.
"Last thing I'd want is some scarf wearing pansy who would die without help." Crescent let out his come back.
Ocean gave no verbal response, but his eyes glaring spears and his orange colored horn glow gave a clear answer.
"You wanna go?!" Crescent grinned, with his own horn lighting up red.
"Enough! Both of you need to work together!" To everypony's surprise, Fluttershy ordered, quite assertively.
"Fluttershy is right." Rainbow Dash added. "You two can kick each others flanks outside, Spike just cleaned that floor."
"Regardless." Ocean continued, adjusting his scarf, calming down. "I feel I alone am more than enough."
"I understand what you're saying Ocean." Twilight nodded, trying to find a peaceful resolution. "But Celestia told me you are to be accompanied and I suggested Crescent because not only do I trust in his abilities, but I know he is the most qualified to protect a pony of interest such as yourself."
Ocean couldn't argue Twilight at that point, it was obvious that Celestia was able to convince her that a guard was required.
"It looks like my hooves are tied." Ocean coincided. "Crescent and I will depart when I have finished gathering whatever tools and resources I require. I should be done in a day."
"Then that's all there is." Rainbow said.
"Yes." Fluttershy smiled.
"This meeting is adjourned." Twilight nodded.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
"And that's how it's gonna go down." Crescent explained to a less than happy Ruby.
"I see." Ruby sighed. "So how long do you think this mission will take?"
"Knowing Ocean." Crescent pondered. "Several months, depending on how interested he gets in his research."
"Several months?!" Ruby almost shouted. "You can't be gone for that long.It's sad enough that you take long shifts for guard duty but several months is too long!"
"I don't like it either." Crescent said shrugging his shoulders. "What else can we do?"
"I'll tell you what I'm gonna do!" Ruby quickly ran off and started writing a letter. As quickly as she leaped to it, Ruby finished her letter and sealed it with with a wax stamp. "Here, send this to Princess Luna."
"What did you write?" Crescent asked.
"Don't question me Crescent!" Ruby said. "Just send it!"
"Alright alright." Crescent sighed again. "Just relax."
With a glow of his red aura magic, the letter vanished from sight.
"What did I just send Luna?" Crescent asked.
"You'll see." Ruby winked.
It wasn't long before a small scroll almost poofed out of Crescent's horn, dropping to the ground.
"That was quick." Ruby smiled, picking up the scroll, reading it. "Yes! It worked!" Ruby was almost bouncing with joy.
"Let me see that." Crescent replied, reading the scroll. His eyes grew large with surprise then let out a sigh of defeat. "Well, looks like my hooves are tied."
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
"ABSOLUTELY NOT!!" Ocean protested.
At the Canterlot train station, Ocean and Crescent were already at each others throats. Despite the full day of preparation, both Ocean and Crescent appeared to have packed lightly. But this wasn't what their argument was about; between the two, watching the argument was Ruby, packed for the journey as well.
"There is no way we are bringing your marefriend with us!" Ocean snapped at Crescent. "This is an important mission that requires delicate steps and confidentiality...not some pointless date!!"
"Date?!" Both Crescent and Ruby's face lit up in a blush.
"It's not like that." Crescent said. "Ruby and I can't be away from each other for too long." Then his face went red again. "Wait, that came out wrong."
"Uh huh." Ocean asked. "And why is that?"
"It's uh..well..." Crescent looked back at Ruby for back up.
"We have a letter here from Princess Luna that explains it." Ruby reached in her satchel, handing an envelope to Ocean.
Ocean skimmed through the contents:
Ocean Stardust,
As you are aware, Lieutenant Crescent-Blade Nocturnis is to accompany you on this journey. But it seems we forgot to mention an important fact. For reasons that have to remain classified, Crescent's roommate Ruby Wing is not to be away from Crescent for an extended period of time. Given the circumstances of your mission, we have decided that it would be more effective and beneficial to have Ruby accompany you both on this mission.
Good Luck on your find,
Princess Luna
"Well that's Luna's royal seal." Ocean sighed. "Damn it. I have no choice." He then looked at both Crescent and Ruby. "Just don't ruin this. This find could lead to a potential new power source."
Just as Crescent was about to argue back, Ruby placed her hoof on his mouth. "Don't worry about me being here." Ruby smiled kindly. "You won't even know I'm here."
"What can you even do?" Ocean inquired.
"Well." Ruby answered, opening her wings a bit. "I'm a good flyer and I have a good memory, so I can be good recon."
"That could be useful." Ocean nodded with a sigh, clearly he had no choice, since it was Luna's orders as well. "Our train will arrive soon." He then said, looking up at the clock.
The train came to a slow stop in front of the trio. Steam and screeching rippled through the air. Various ponies were coming on and off the train.
"ALL ABOARD!!" The conductor pony shouted.
"Let's go." Ocean said.
"Where are we going first?" Ruby asked.
"The Crystal Empire." Ocean answered, getting on the train, followed by Crescent and Ruby.
"Why the Crystal Empire?" Crescent asked, putting the satchels on the luggage rack.
"I have a colleague up there who studies ancient energy sources." Ocean answered, sitting back, his gaze out the window. "Then we'll go from there."
The train let out a whistle and a screech, slowly starting up. Crescent laid back and quickly fell asleep. It wasn't long before Ruby passed out as well. Ocean was the only one awake, spending his time looking over notes and drawing up new hypothesis and potential experiments. But despite all the time and focus he was putting into his notes, a thought kept hitting him.
"(Why can't those two be separated?)" He thought. "(Even Luna didn't specify, what are you two hiding?)"
______________________________________________________________________________________________
To the a rocky and barren cliffs and small mountains where the Diamond Dogs keep greedily to their mines, two cloaked figures, a rather small one and a very tall one. Both obviously not ponies, approached the main entrance.
"Who goes?" A guard asked, barring his spear.
The two figures removed their hoods, revealing them to be diamond dogs as well, the taller one being female and the smaller was male.
"We seek an audience with King Lockjaw of this Mine." The smaller one requested in a unusually intelligent tone, not a very common thing in a Diamond Dog.
"Audi-what?" The guards scratched their heads in confusion.
"It didn't work Pit." The female giggled.
"Ugh." Pit sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Collie, give them the incentive."
"The what?" Collie stuck out her tongue in a confused manner.
"Oh for the love of." Pit sighed. "The gems!"
"Oh those!" Collie reached into her cloak and threw a few large rubies and diamonds at the guards' paws.
The guards leaped at the gems and quickly picked them up. "Oh..uh..Welcome."
"Thank you." Pit said, walking past the guards with his companion.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
In the dark and wet lair of Chrysalis's Changeling Hive, two cloaked ponies, one of which had a sword on its back, walked up the stairs to the main entrance. Several Changeling sentries held weapons at the ready at the intruder.
"What business you have here?" A guard hissed and clicked.
Both ponies removed their hoods; the larger of the two, with the sword on his back, was a muscular white unicorn stallion with piercing red eyes and a long, straight black mane. His companion was a lighter blue pegasus mare with flowing dark blue mane with white streaks, her purple eyes closely observed her surroundings.
"We come on behalf of our master to offer a deal to your Queen." The Unicorn formally announced.
"We were told to give you these as 'gifts'." The pegasus reached in her cloak and pulled out a wooden box, passing it to the guard.
The guard looked over the box carefully and opened the lid.
"By Chrysalis's mane!" A guard almost fell back in surprise.
Inside the box were several large bottles of a pink liquid, each bottle had a heart sticker on the corks.
"We shall bring you to our Queen." Another guard informed, opening the front gates.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
The frigid winds and icy storms hid this castle well. Castle being a very strong word for what was actually an ancient ruin that has been lost for unknown eras. Deep inside this ruin, lay a massive clear crystal monolith, with what appears to be an alicorn sealed within. In front of the monolith were three ponies, but their appearances were hidden in shadow.
"After centuries of searching, we are so close." One pony said.
"Yes it is true, we have sacrificed much to get this." Another pony said, looking around the room and seeing a few empty holes. "But we only require a few more crystals to free it."
"Where do we go from here master?" The third pony bowed to the two others.
"We wait for the reports from both the Diamond Dog Mines and The Changeling Hive." The second pony stated. "Then we shall strike at the Crystal Empire."
"The Crystal Empire?" The third asked.
"Yes." The Second responded. "There is a scholar who specializes in crystals and ancient energy sources. He shall help us."
"And if he doesn't master?" The third asked.
"Remember." The Second placed his hoof on the third. "There are worse things than death." A dark purple glow illuminated in front of this pony, revealing himself to be a zebra, with a ragged black mane and his horn was made of dark purple crystal. "That I can provide should he refuse."
