Chapters Sombras POV
The sky was a typical hellish orange and the ground below was dry and cracked, covered in his dark crystals. His crystal slaves labored away in the mines. It's been only a few days since he regained his kingdom from those pathetic equestrian ponies, and yet, it feels like he's been ruling for hundreds of years.
He wore his usual frown, for he wasn't satisfied. He was never satisfied. Why? Because he always felt he was lacking something important. No, it wasn't his phylactery. That was another matter entirely.
He sat there, writing his book titled 'Fear Enslaves All', which would surely make anypony depressed. It contained and rationalized all of his thoughts and feelings on the world. He was quite the bookworm in his spare time, and he intended to utilize it in his conquests of spreading fear and despair.
''You're Majesty!'' called out his captain of the royal guards, panting from exhaustion. His diamond armor glistened in the damned suns light. He took off his helmet and bowed, like how an obedient 'dog' would.
The unicorn formerly known as Shining Armor, was now his temporary right-hand. King Sombra brainwashed him into becoming his servant. But not before reading his mind to understand everything he needed to know about the present world. He anticipated the day Shining would face off against and hopefully corrupt his own sister, Twilight Sparkle. Bastard deserved it for sacrificing himself to save his friends and family from Sombras wraith.
King Sombra never turned his head to the voice, only waited.
''Somethings infiltrating the Crystal Empire! It's in the east fields!''
The King closed his eyes and focused. As he focused, he began to see in countless points throughout his kingdom. The crystals he generated had many uses, thanks to them practically being an extension of his soul, mind, and body. One of the most common being a visual connection to his own eyes. He could see through the dark crystals and see for himself, what went on, and where.
He scanned through thousands of his 'visions' in the eastern field. A good twenty-three of the visions finally caught a glimpse of the creature.
What King Sombra saw was an elderly pony covered with a hood. It had a white beard and wore a nose ring, but it also had a third pair of limbs in the form of arms and hands. And glowing yellow eyes. Those eyes! They looked familiar. Has he seen this thing before? He wouldn't be surprised.
The King lost all of his past memories, ever since he became a master of alicorn magic, three hundred years ago, before his one thousand year imprisonment. He eventually created a new personality for himself. He deduced it as amnesia, due to his own dark influence causing the same effect among his subjects.
He remembered is oldest memories, since they were technically his first. His horn glowed, triggering the single dark crystal embedded at the center of the ceiling in his throne room. Purple bubbles erupted from it, then it projected an image. The Kings thoughts and memories for all to see.
' RRRRAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!! roared an image of a younger and very angry Sombra. ''WHY !!! He had nothing now. It was gone. Whatever it was, it was gone! He couldn't accept that. He wouldn't! He charged his normal unicorn horn, causing purple bubbles to form on it. But due to his intense anger at the world, these bubbles spread through out his body and consumed him. When it was done, he calmed down. He felt, different. He opened his eyes, looking at his reflection on the crystal. Whatever the white crystal was there for was forgotten about. What he would never forget though, was his horns new appearance. It was red and curved. What happened? ...It didn't matter. What did matter, was satisfying his new thirst for power.'
'That was one-thousand and three-hundred years ago. Soon after, he calmed down, and gathered his thoughts. He was still angry, but he forgot what he was angry for. As time past, he became less and less angry. So much so, that he became aloof and distant.
He may have forgotten his past, but he was still as brilliant as ever. Some ponies knew a little about him, allowing him to regain his name, but they feared him for his appearance. Not that he cared. He needed to understand the world and it's many races and societies he'd forgotten. So through out his history, he's observed the behavior of his fellow equines. Trying to find out what drove the common pony in life. Citizens, royalty, and solders! Earth pony, Pegasus, and Unicorn! He studied and learned from them all. Even other races such as the griffins or dragons were studied.'
King Sombra continued skimming through his memories.
You desire to live, because you fear death.
You desire friends, because you fear loneliness.
You desire civility, because you fear vulnerability.
In the end, it was all the same. He concluded that all were ultimately motivated by fear. And in some cases, enslaved to it. Yes! Fear enslaves all. That was a truth, and like any other truth, it was cold and harsh. Over time, he became less and less caring. As an enforcer of truth, it was his obligation to enforce this fact. And what began as an obligation turned into undying loyalty.
Indeed, it was a depressing way to view the world. But King Sombra wanted facts, not fantasies.
His eyes widened slightly, with his irises and pupils shrinking a bit. King Sombra closed his eyes, blocking out the urges, 'Crystals! ...Hearts!' before calming down and breathing in. He sat there, meditating. 'Corrupt them ALL!' The King sighed. These compulsions where getting repetitive.
He concentrated on his crystals, and began to feel them. He felt all of his symmetrical crystals and how they felt so perfect, then he felt all of his jagged crystals and how they felt like a mess. Each one represented his state of mind; his symmetrical crystals represented his refined and aloof state of mind, while the jagged crystals represented his crazy and animalistic state of mind. Being extensions of his being and thus his mind, King Sombra had a telepathic connection to his crystals.
The jagged crystals roared 'Submit to the darkness! Forget Everything!'
Whether Raw Sombra was referring directly to Refined Sombra , he didn't know, nor did he care.
'I will rule this la-' was all it could think, as the King slightly narrowed his eyes in concentration, causing said crystal to reform into a symmetrical shape. With it's only thoughts ''...''
King Sombra was not the same one who sieged the Crystal Empire. That was but an animal acting completely under the control of alicorn magic influence. Conveniently, Frostbite appeared and channeled all of the Kings memories back into him. Allowing him to regain the pony who all but decayed from existence in his ice prison. Yet he still felt its influence, calling him. He held far too much dignity to behave in such a mindless and barbaric manner, and ever since then, he's been slowly erasing the pointless monster that he was from existence.
He was cut out of his thought process, upon sensing the hooded figure through his crystals. He closed his eyes again to observe.
He witnessed this creature hide behind one the his crystals, before approaching one of his guards. They both had a heated exchange of words. What the King witnessed next was quite possible the most interesting and alarming thing imaginable. The hooded pony opened its monkey-like mouth wide and, like a leech from hell, began to drain the guard of their magic, and worse, his small yet potent amount of raw alicorn magic blessed upon him by Sombra himself. How dare it! Then the hooded ...thing jumped him, grabbing him with those monkey like limbs of his and strangling the guard. The creature then bulked in size a bit. When it was done, it snapped the guards neck.
It then looked to said guards hoofprints, which lead it to gaze upon his kingdom. King Sombra couldn't see much of his mystery guest, but that sinister grin it wore upon gazing at his empire, told him all he needed to know.
He ended the vision.
His captain asked ''Permission to kill him, sir?''
Simply killing somepony was considered a mercy to King Sombra. He preferred to either fill his enemies hearts with despair, or corrupt his enemies to his side. He found a bit of satisfaction in the later. The more pure and innocent something was, the more satisfying it would be to corrupt it.
Besides, he was short on minions. That and other reasons were why he spread rumors of recruitment. After all, why waist such potential?
Also, there was something about this thing that was ...familiar.
King Sombra walked out to his balcony. He looked to the east, were the creature was. With an emotionless yet authoritative tone, he stated ''Fear enslaves all.''
Chapter 2. Tireks Arrival
Chapter 2. Tireks Arrival
Tireks POV
Tirek was relieved. He had to hide away from society as a shriveled up husk of his former self, ever since he broke out of Tatarus. But then he heard word of the Crystal Empire returning. Better yet, it was under the control of the alicorn master, King Sombra. For him, it was the jackpot. ''Plenty of alicorn magic, and my most powerful, cunning, and faithful servant, with a kingdom to boot!''
He was walking his way to the empire on foot. He didn't mind the distance. After all, He's literally been to hell and back. A little stroll wouldn't hurt. He could already smell it. Alicorn Magic! It called him, no, it begged him to come on over and absorb it for his sake.
He was aware of the dangers of Alicorn Magic, and how the weak-minded would lose their own identity, and be driven by an unsatisfiable thirst for power. Of course, He and Sombra where not the type to let the Dark Side consume them. The very fact that he retained his identity as Sombra, was a testament to the unicorns strong mind.
However, it was still possible for one with even a strong mind to be stripped of their memories. Psychological trauma! But Sombra was strong, loyal, and fearless. He had little to worry about. Even then, it has been almost one-thousand and three-hundred years since then, so he had a trump card in store, in case Sombra needed to be reminded.
He gradually felt a faint sense of worry, which was strange.
Hours turned to days as he continued toward what would become his castle. Not that he needed one, anyways. He was more of the 'traveling warrior' type. Going from country to country, and draining magic in any form. Kind of like what he was planning on doing now. He missed those days. Day and night, he would progress farther and farther. Not caring about food, water, or sleep.
By the time he arrived at the Crystal Empire, he found the empire itself was a shining example of disappointment. Before Tirek, stood a tower, surrounded by a small collection of buildings with a network of roads that collectively formed a snowflake. The Crystal City-State, as he'd call it from now on, was surrounded by a vast field of dark crystals. Really, to Tirek, it wasn't much to look at. ''Seriously! This is the crystal empire, I've heard so much about! It looks like it's barely even a city-state,'' No. He shouldn't complain. This was his ticket out of his condition. With a huff, he continued onward, ''Lets get this over with.'' despite his worry intensifying.
As he walked towards the vast field of dark crystals, he noticed that the crystals were jagged, positioned randomly throughout the landscape. As he walked through the crystal field, he couldn't help but wonder. Why does he possess these useless rocks? What good are they? Sombra should focus on gaining alicorn magic for him.
Then he heard somepony, causing him to hide away behind one of the crystals. He could hear hoofsteps along with the clanking of armor. A guard? Do they know he's hear? How? ...No matter. He looked to the source of the noise, to find a stallion patrolling the fields. He didn't seem to be looking for anypony in particular.
Tirek was hungry for magic. He stepped out of hiding and slowly walked up to the guard, who heard and turned to him. Upon seeing Tirek, the guards eyes lit green with purple aura trailing behind them. Tirek was all too familiar with those features. Alicorn Magic!
He walked closer to the stallion, who demanded ''Halt, Mongrel! Submit to your fears, and accept King Sombras presence as your fate!
Tirek uttered ''Fears? I have no fears. Do you?''
The guard stallion spat ''All are slaves to fear! And that fear is King Sombra, himself! ''
Tirek opened his mouth and started draining the stallions magic, normal then alicorn, leaving the guard paralyzed in the process. The ponies normal magic tasted bland. But oh, how he missed the taste of alicorn magic. It allowed him to relive his past. He grabbed hold of the stallions neck with both of his hands. He dragged him down to the floor, choking him to death. Even in his crippled state, Tirek still had a mean grip, as he only took five seconds to crush the stallions neck with a satisfying snap. He grew a few inches larger now. He stood up, and walked away from the former patrol guards corpse
He gazed at the Crystal City-State, and grinned sinisterly ''In that case, I'm above him!''
On his way towards Sombras Castle, he stared at his hands, then clenched them in determination ''Perfect. Soon I shall regain my original strength!'' He smirked ''And by 'original strength', I mean ALL magic.'' He just hoped all his alicorn magic wasn't being greedily hoarded by Sombra. That was his job! Besides, it'd be a shame to have to off his favorite associate so soon.
Tirek stopped in his tracks. A shadow slithered it's way towards him, and materialized into a dark crystal once in front of him. Unlike the crystals Tirek came across, this one was symmetrical. Then it started to sizzle with purple bubbles.
The elderly centaur walked up to it, commenting ''Interesting! So these crystals contain alicorn magic?'' He opened his mouth and absorbed the magic, but couldn't drain it. Tirek sighed. Of course, he wasn't strong enough.
However, he could at least taste it. Tirek sensed there was something off with the alicorn magic. It left a bitter aftertaste in his mouth. Was there something more to these crystals then simple alicorn magic? Should he worry? He looked to the crystals ahead of him, to find them all having the same symmetrical figure.
Now realizing his most loyal servant was growing crystals full of alicorn magic, Tirek cackled, menacingly ''Excellent!''
This made him wonder, though. Why was his most faithful servant in possession of such raw alicorn magic just laying around? Did Sombra anticipate his return and create them as a 'Welcome back from Hell' gift? That unicorn always had undying loyalty to him. He couldn't think of any other reason.
If Sombra remained loyal, he could have all the alicorn magic he wanted. If Sombra wasn't loyal, he would have support. It was his understanding that Sombra was bitter enemies with the Princesses, Celestia and Luna. Regardless of Sombras intent, Tirek would take what was rightfully his. By force, if necessary.
'Submit,'
The hooded centaur looked around for who ever it was that spoke. When he didn't see anypony, he stroked his beard in thought, before recognizing the voice. ''Sombra?'' He didn't get an answer, only silence. Tirek didn't know how to interpret Sombras word. The unicorn was now aware of his masters presence.
Then he winced, grabbing his noggin. As if something was tearing his mind inside-out. Being a creature who steals his victims magic and powers, he was familiar with all sorts of magic ability's. And he knew exactly what this was. Forced Telepathy!
But why? He was Sombra's master! Then it clicked. While in hiding, he was quite the ease dropper and information gatherer. He recalled how not long before the Crystal Empire appeared, there was a wedding in Canterlot. All over the news. And what else was on the news? A Changeling Invasion! He believed it was his chance, yet the changelings failed. No doubt, Sombra would know as well. No doubt, Sombra would suspect him. He calmed himself, content in knowing he could trust good old loyal Sombra.
Still, what could he have been doing after all these years? Maybe he planned his own ambitions? That would be adorable! Still, whether he liked it or not, Sombra has displayed telepathy. He could see Tireks deepest thoughts and desires. That could very well make his own ambitions far more difficult. If he didn't remember, then Tirek would have to appeal to him.
But as he continued towards Sombras Castle, he found something was holding him back. ''What?,'' Tirek stopped for a sec, to rationalize. It was something he'd never experienced before. For some reason, he felt this emotional wall compelling him to leave Sombras territory, and there was something else. He felt ...endangered!
TIrek laughed ''Fear? That's what this is?'' his laughter died down and he glared at the crystal and proudly declared ''I am Lord Tirek! Fear is nothing compared to me!'' Call it 'warrior pride', but Tirek was immune to fear. But why did he feel it? He thought back to that guards comment about Sombra, and the voice he heard. No, it couldn't be!
At that instant, another shadow appeared. This time, what materialized out of the ground, was unicorn. Unlike the unicorn guard, this female unicorn wore a black cloak with design based off of the formers purple aura. Tirek noted the purple ring around her horn. She spoke, clearly displeased ''Welcome, Tirek. My master, King Sombra, has noted your presence and commands you to come quietly. My names Frostbite, and I'll be escorting you to the castle.''
Tirek was torn. On one hand, he could simple drain her like before. On the other hand, she was proof that Sombra wished to see him. He smirked ''How kind of you to help out an old man like me.''
Frostbite rolled her eyes, and escorted him into the the city. Ever since he experienced that piercing feeling in his head, he'd been feeling a constantly endangered. To any other pony, it would be a crushing pressure that broke any hope or moral. But to Tirek it was just a looming annoyance. He was so sure of his own might, that no amount of fear could ever faze him.
He saw the Crystal Ponies laboring away in mines. A slave driver, huh? Tirek and his tore guide proceeded into the castle, and up the stairs. A few minutes passed until they reached the doors to the throne room, where Sombra was.
The doors opened, with Tirek and Frostbite entering. Tirek observed his surroundings. He was standing on a blood red carpet, which stretched over to the throne. Black crystals decorated the the throne room. Green flames flanked the King who laid on the throne. King Sombra wore steel armor with a crown, as well as a red cape. What confirmed Tireks suspicions however, was Sombras red and curved horn. The stallion wore an aloof expression on his face.
Frostbite walked up to King Sombra and bowed at his hoofs ''Your Majesty!''
Tirek looked to Sombra with eyes glowing. With more curiosity then hostility, he asked ''Have you forgotten were your loyalties lie, Sombra? I can tell you've forgotten, so I'll show you a little something to ring your bells.''
With that said, Tirek brought out his trump card. Green fire erupted from his hooves and enveloped him. Once the fire vanished, Tirek appeared as his original muscular self. But it was just an illusion, with no actual power to back it up. He figured Sombra was aware. But he used it, not to intimidate, but to jog his memories.
He could've just retreated, since he knew he was at a huge disadvantage. But he was Tirek. He never ran. Whether it worked or not, he'd now find out.
Sombra POV
Fear enslaves all! For all actions and decisions are motivated by it. This was what King Sombra believed and he was loyal to this belief. But now, his beliefs were being challenged. His very perception of the world was being threatened.
His presence carried an aura of dread to it. It was practically an extension of his being. As he was able to sense anypony within his aura. Unfortunately, this 'Tirek' was immune to the effects of his presence.
He had telepathically planted a potent phobia on the beast. The phobia could be whatever the King desired it to be. He was expecting an irrational fear of consuming magic would have prevented him from becoming a parasite. But this Tirek proved not only fearless, but much too determined for any sense of dread to demotivate him.
He returned to his throne, and lit his horn. He cast a summoning spell. In no time at all, a shadow crept into the throne room.
Said pony wore a black cloak, with a hood hiding her face.
She was one of nine Heart Hunters. King Sombras elite servants.
She bowed before him, eagerly ''You summoned me, my King?''
King Sombra ordered ''Frostbite! Bring me, Tirek!''
She hesitated before sighing ''Very well, Your Majesty,'' before the darkness erupted once more and consumed her back into shadow, which slithered its way out of the castle and towards the east field.
As he waited, he looked down to the floor, thinking. Tirek gave him a sense of fallibility. A sense of worry. A sense that maybe, he mistook the nature of the world. Worry? He shouldn't worry! Worry, led to fear. Was he worried? King Sombra narrowed his eyes in pure disgust at the answer. Yes, but mildly so. Was he feeling threatened by Tirek? Yes! Was he afraid of the implications behind Tireks actions? Yes! Was he afraid of Tirek, himself? No! It wasn't Tirek that unnerved him, so much as what he demonstrated. Demonstrating that not everypony could be enslaved by fear. That not everypony could be enslaved by him!
And when Tirek attempted to drain his alicorn magic. It felt like a small fraction of his very being was being forcefully ripped from him. Thankfully, Tirek wasn't strong enough.
Despite this, King Sombra maintained his stoic expression. He wasn't afraid to admit that even he can be intimidated. For he too, was just a pony. But he also wasn't afraid to admit, that he wanted to not be afraid of anything. Not by becoming an exception, but by becoming fear itself.
He had to give Tirek credit were it was due, for he reminded the King that not even Sombra, himself, was spared from the grim truth which he so believed in. With a smirk out of respect, he summed up Tireks impressive feat in one word ''Admirable!''
King Sombra heard the doors open. He saw his Hunter alongside Tirek, who paused to observe the scenery. He said ''Have you forgotten were your loyalties lie, Sombra? I can tell you've forgotten, so I'll show you a little something to ring your bells.'' And Tirek used what he believed to be changeling magic to transform into a big, red, demonic version of his former self, with big curved horns.
King Sombra felt his fur stand on end. Not because of Tireks appearance, but because of the memories it brought him.
Sombra finally succeeded with his creations. He had finally forged the perfect minions for his master, Tirek. When he first saw them, they brought a smile to his face. Sombra never had any company, what with having to hide in the shadows. He smiled, because that was going to change. While he wanted to show them to Tirek, he also didn't want to put them in any grave danger. But they needed to be concealed for now, because they needed to be safe from the obvious danger in the sky.
Sombra was marching onward for a while. He could see the battlefield was just ahead. When he arrived, he saw a desolate waist land full of battle scars. At the center of this waist land, was a once great mountain, now with a gigantic scare running all the way down into it's base. All around the mountain, the land was covered in craters of various sizes. Each one containing a burnt corpes.
He heard thunder, but it wasn't thunder. It was the sound of a hard fought battle between two formidable opponents high up in the air. Sombra continued forward. The fight was obscured by clouds of dust which blanketed the landscape.
Occasionally, something would fall from the sky. And as if on cue, one really did fall from the sky. It was alight with fire like an in-coming meteor. It crashed down, not too far from where Sombra stood.
Curios, he walked on over to see what fell from the sky. He found it to be the burnt corpse of a dragon. Dragons, but dragons where immune to flames. How could it of- His thoughts met a halt the moment he gazed at those colorless eyes. It was dead, yet it's uncharacteristically white eyes sent shivers down Sombras spine. What exactly happened to it?
The booming thunder stopped. And soon, Tirek came crashing down, beaten and bruised.
The remaining dragon armada flew down after him. Sombra couldn't belief it. Thousands of dragons were foolishly facing Lord Tirek.
Tirek stood up, unfazed by all his scars and bruises. He smiled, clearly enjoying the challenge.
He faced his servent. The moment his yellow eyes met Sombras red eyes, sent a chill down the unicorns spine. Tirek asked ''Have you completed my alicorn-infused army?'' he then breathed out a vast cloud of smoke towards the approaching dragon army to halt their advance. No doubt, an ability he'd stolen from those dragons.
Sombra responded ''Yes, they are complete.''
He tapped his hoof on the ground, signalling his new forces to rise up to the surface. Both Master and Servant, watched as behind, countless beast clawed out of the ground. They were wolves with spiky dark crystalline fur, and mace-like tails with crystals stemming from them.
How he created them was to obtain some blood from Cerberus, and pour his own alicorn magic into it. Giving them regenerative, and mutative properties. He grew these clones within his own underground base.
These wolves were Sombras finest work of art. He was proud of them. And why wouldn't he be, since he poured his heart and soul into making them. In fact, they were really growing on him.
Sombra proudly announced ''May I present you with 'the Diamond Dogs'! For their loyalty is unbreakable.'' He charged up his horn, which erupted with purple bubbles. The wolves obeyed his commands, and lined up like solders, waiting with passion. For once, Sombra smiled. They were like a family to him. ''Permission to test them out?''
Tirek said ''No need.''
Sombra said, relieved that he didn't have to put his children at risk. ''I understand! I've only been able to perfect at least one-hundred and twenty-nine of them. So even with alicorn magic. And against these odds?'' then bowed down ''I'm sorry, for not having enough resources and time, my lord!''
Tirek scolded ''I don't care about numbers, resources or time! They have alicorn magic and that's all I need!''
''My lord?''
What happened next would scar Sombra for life. His lord and mentor, Lord Tirek, drained all of his wolves of their alicorn magic. And with his new alicorn magic, came a great increase in height. Tirek, now possessing regenerative abilities, healed his wounds, turned away without a care, ''Now leave!'' and flew off to tear his enemies to shreds. Horn alight with purple bubbles.
Sombra stood there, unable to process what just happened. His master killed them! His master betrayed them! His master betrayed him! These wolves were his creation, and over time, he saw them as his children. To Tirek, they gave him power, but to lonely Sombra, they gave him something more. They gave him company. They gave him friendship. But now their gone. Because he thought he could trust his master. Did Tirek not care about anyone but himself? Was he so power-hungry, that he would betray his subordinates. He couldn't believe it.
It terrified Sombra. Could he be next? The very idea made him feel cold. Little did Tirek realize, Sombras loyalty towards him would be replaced with absolute dread.'
King Sombra finally finished that brutal memory of his. He was sweating from the stress that memory gave him. He knew presenting images, which reminded one of better days, was the key to regaining their lost memories. It was the same trick those equestrians used on his slaves, three days ago. However, this was different. Tirek didn't remind him of a happiness forgotten, but reminded him of what little happiness his 'master' had taken from him.
King Sombra had enough. He'd deal with Tirek, himself.
Tireks POV
Tirek ended his changeling disguise. When he drained magic. It's amount was proportional to how much magic he drained when obtaining it. The time between Canterlots barrier falling, and another barrier expanding outwards, was all but an hour. He could only drain one changeling, before that barrier threw him across the other side of the country. So while his shape-shifting was decent. His choosing to take on a huge appearance put strain on what was already an ability he was unfamiliar with, so it could only last a few seconds. And yet, it got the job done.
When he changed his appearance, Frostbite immediately charged her horn, with her ring bubbling. Thankfully, Sombra raised a hoof, signalling Frostbite to stand down. Frostbite gritted her teeth, frustrated that she couldn't just dispose of who she knew was a huge threat. Despite her protestant expression, she ultimately bowed to her King and walked to his side.
Tirek grinned at Frostbite. He would deal with her later. He returned to Sombra, who's glare wasn't what he expected. None the less, Tirek rolled with the punches. ''Care to show use what you've learned today, King Sombra?''
Sombras horn lit up. Again, the crystal on the ceiling cast a shadow. This time, it showed the very memories Sombra experienced. When it was done, the shadows retreated back into the crystal. What followed was dead silence, with Sombra simply staring at Tirek, with a hint a unamusement
Tirek was confused ''It appears there's something I've missed. You don't seem very pleased.''
''You're a threat, equal to the Crystal Heart!''
Tirek appealed to him, using his memories as a leverage. ''Oh, Sombra. What ever brought you to say such words. I always thought you to be my favorite ...associate.'' He walked up to Sombra, and placed a hand on his shoulder.
He'd have to make multiple appeals. First, he appealed to Sombras concerns ''I'm not a threat, as I'm unable to drain your crystals. And while I do admit, I'll be able to drain them in time, I wont need them in the end. For you see, I want the magic of Equestria, along with the Princesses alicorn magic. I just need a favor from my former ally. I don't know what I must have done to deserve such harsh words from you, but it's been so long since we've seen each other. You know what I'm capable of, so why not use me for Equestria. Are you going to let a little misunderstanding interfere with your judgement of a potential asset?''
King Sombra continued to stare him down, as cold and aloof as usual.
Next, Tirek appealed to his loss of identity. ''Speaking of judgements. Do you really want to judge me in the subjective context of one simple memory? If I recall correctly, you were better then that. But that was then, this is now. You are, who you are, so I suppose it can't be helped. Unless you can prove me wrong.''
''With that said, may I ask that you let me say what I have to say without,'' He glared at Frostbite ''interruption?'' then went back to the king ''Will you allow me to speak my mind without consequence? You might learn something of value.''
Sombra hesitated, then nodding with approval.
With there being no consequences to his words, Tirek continued towards breaking down any argument Sombra may hold, without any hint of doing so ''Do you wish to know who you really are? Then all you have to do is let me stay and remind you of your true self. The time and place of the memories may come randomly, but I'm confident you'll be able to piece it together. I could simply tell you who you used to be, but you were always the kind who wanted to be shown not told. You could read my mind, but nothing leads to bias like another persons perspective. I'm sure you prefer one-hundred percent accurate knowledge.''
He looked to Sombras horn, and decided to work on the risks ''You feel it, don't you? The compelling thirst for power? Are you going to let it consume you? Will you be controlled by the very power you claim to control. How long must you've endured with such a curse? You enslave ponies, and yet you yourself could become just that, a slave!''
He proceeded on to Sombras forgotten loyalty ''You used to be a great unicorn. So ambitious, so refined! By the looks of things, you're still as lawful as ever. A King must bring order, ...and a servant must enforce them.'' He held his hands up defensively ''I'm not saying you should return as my subordinate, besides, after what happened with my brother, I'm done with subordination. Despite losing yourself, you didn't completely lose yourself.''
Then laid down what they shared in common ''You've proven to me that we should work together again, but as equals this time. You are admirably intelligent, so I'll be honest with you, we're both the kind of people who ultimately care only about our own goals, and will use anypony to our advantages. And neither of us are gullible enough to try to fool the other into thinking otherwise, so lets not resort to such pointless deceptions and have a refreshingly mutual, honest, and pragmatic means of communication.''
And then he played on his intelligence. ''Any gambits we may try would ultimately end in a convoluted mess. I bet I now what you're thinking, 'How am I sure your not just trying to convince me into not having a backup plan?'. Well, the answers quiet simple really. You can't be sure. Trust your own judgement. Especially, considering your King Sombra. Who, as I've heard, won not because he did things now, but because he was so prepared beforehand. It's obvious to me that you are a force to be reckoned with.''
Tirek was on a roll, and now he would wrap up his case. Finally, he appealed to Sombras special talent. He eyed his flank, only to find it possessed a cutie mark. It was a dark crystal with the typical purple bubbles emitting from it. He rolled with the punches ''Interesting! So you have a new cutie mark? Oh well, I was hoping you could still obtain your original cutie mark. Doing so could very well be the shortest and easiest way to discover your past. Cutie marks are linked to memory, after all.''
Finally, Tirek summed up his appeal to King Sombra! ''King Sombra! I don't say this as your former master, but as one dark lord to another. You have far too much dignity as a King to become a slave to petty urges, and you're far too cunning and prepared to be concerned with someone like me. Embrace your past identity! In turn, help me regain my strength from those filthy equestrians! Together, there is nopony who can stop us!''
And that was that. Tirek questioned ''Well?''
Silence filled the throne room, until King Sombra finally answered ''I'll need to evaluate.''
The throne room doors opened up, with the Captain of the Royal Guards standing in the door way. He nodded his head out the door, signalling Frostbite and Tirek to leave the King to his thoughts.
Once everypony was out, the doors closed. The brainwashed Shining Armor said ''Come this way, Sir Tirek. I'll show you to your guest room.'' Tirek followed, along with Frostbite.
The Guards Captain lead him to his chambers. There, he stayed for the night. It was a simple room. And yet, this was King Sombra he was dealing with. For all he knew, his guest room could be a trap itself. Regardless, Tirek continued inside, not to sleep, but to think. He needed some quiet time to prepare for anything. He could still taste a bit of the changeling magic. Just enough in case things went south. He walked to one of the dark corners in the room, and began stroking his beard.
But he still had one last thorn to take care of. He heard the doors creak open before closing shut behind him. Time to deal with said thorn.
''My King may trust you, but I don't!''
Tirek cackled ''My, my, my? Aren't you upset?''
Frostbite narrowed her eyes ''I hope I'll have the honors of gutting you myself!''
Tirek laughed ''Oh my, are you actually threatening me?''
''You'll eventually betray us, and when that time comes,'' she smirked maliciously ''I'll be ready.''
''And you wont do it now? I wonder.'' goaded Tirek.
''Oh, I'll do it!'' reassured Frostbite.
''Perhaps, but that's King Sombras rightful decision. You know that, don't you?''
''Of course!'' she spat.
''Then why antagonize me? Why waist both my and your precious time on a potential fate that your King, and your King alone decides?''
Tirek continued to play her like a fiddle ''Your concern his understandable, Frostbite. You are, after all, one of King Sombras,'' he stroked his beard to remember ''...Heart Hunters, was it?'' He spread his arms out, making an opening for her. ''You can kill me if you so desire, but you wont, because that may not be what your King wants. Or maybe, you don't trust his word?''
''I do trust his word!''
''Then why go against it? Shouldn't a loyal servant trust in the word of there King? Maybe you're not as loyal as you let on. Of course, if this is true, then you should have no trouble making sure I never live to tell about it!''
Frostbite retorted ''It's a warning!''
Tirek smirked ''A warning? As in, trying to scare me into falling in line, or else? Amusing! ...Your warning will be noted.'' before waving her off ''Now could you be a dear, and let a weak and defenseless centaur like myself get some shut-eye?''
Hesitantly, Frostbite gave up. She walked out the door, but before it closed all the way, she gave him one last glare which promised murder.
Tirek walked to one of the dark corners in the room, and began stroking his beard. Scheming, planing, preparing for the worst.
Chapter 5 Chrysalis's Plan
Deep in the desserts of the badlands, there was a single mountain. It didn't look like much from the outside, but what lied underneath the surface was what mattered. This mountain possessed a cavity on it's tip. The cavity was the changeling hive nest, and as such, it's walls were painted with green slime, and ringed with holes, forming catacombs.
At the bottom, laid Queen Chrysalis, resting on her throne. 'Why did we fail?' was all Queen Chrysalis asked herself, ever since the wedding. She needed the love of Equestria for both herself and her changelings. She had the perfect plan; capture the princess of love, take on her appearance, feed off of Shinings love for her, end the wedding, lower the shield, let her changelings walk right into Canterlot in disguise, gain enough love to take over Canterlot from within. Of course the Princess's would be an obstacle. Maybe she'd of leaked some of her agenda to the public so as to spread paranoia so as to better manipulate them into doing what she wants. She didn't know exactly how it'd work, but she would have found a way for both Princess's to be out of the way for good. With Shining Armor being her protector; magically against her enemies, and emotionally against his loved ones. It was the perfect plan, yet she failed.
Ever since, Chrysalis and her changelings had hid away. She sent scouts to Equestria for any updates. One changeling spy, Cuddle Bug, flew down towards her throne. Upon landing, she bowed before the Queen of the Changelings. She was known for being glutenous when it came to feeding, due to her being overly affectionate. Yet their was something different about Cuddle Bug when she flew down. She was shivering, despite the blazing desert outside. She hissed ''M-My Queen, I've returned from gathering intel. There's been a discovery of great significance.''
The Changeling Queen demanded ''What is it!''
''An empire has appeared, north of Equestria. It was originally full of love. More so then Equestria.''
Chrysalis raised an eyebrow, her interest rising ''Originally full of love?''
She nodded ''It's now under the control of a unicorn king, named Sombra. From what I've heard, he's exceedingly cruel, frighteningly intelligent, and universally dreaded with the intent to enslave all life.''
The Queen rolled her eyes ''And why should this concern us? He's just another gullible pony waiting to be manipulated.''
Cuddle Bug added ''Because my Queen, he possesses something called the 'Crystal Heart'. Apparently, it contains all the love of these 'crystal ponies' he's enslaved. Also, love happens to be his weakness.''
Chrysalis's eyes widened in shock. The Crystal Empire? She heard about it from her mother. It was a legendary empire that spread love and hope throughout the land. It was told that for the changelings, love as literally in the air. Sadly, it vanished! Depriving her kind of finally having plenty of food, forever. It was like discovering an endless supply of food, only to have it disappear. It was every changelings dream. A dream that was all but crushed, for reasons unknown. Now, thousands of years later, it was merely a children's fairy tale for the changelings.
She peered into her subjects mind. She wasn't making it up. Despite how ridiculous the idea of an empire rich in love simply popping into existence seemed, she wasn't making it up. More concerning then that, was this immense fear she felt in her little changeling. When she linked her mind to her changelings, that fear carried over to her. She felt a chill run down her spine, as if she was somehow in grave danger. She remained composed, and ended the mental link.
Changelings had a natural hive mind, so Queen Chrysalis could connect her mind with her subjects to form a telepathic network. However, Chrysalis had standards. She cared for her changelings. They were her children, and as such, had the rite to individuality. It's only what they deserve, what with living a life full of false identities. As their mother, Chrysalis didn't want to strip them of their one chance to have their own genuine identity. To have a name, a face, and an opinion. Just like herself.
Cuddle Bug asked, hesitantly ''Um, my Queen?''
''Yes?''
Cuddle Bug rubbed her hoof across the floor ''Forgive me but, may I hug you?''
Normally, Chrysalis would lecture her subjects on respect, both to their queen and to themselves. But after feeling that sudden rush of impending doom. That feeling that everyone and everything she knew and loved would be taken away from her. The queen pitied her child. What Cuddle Bug felt, made the loving mother in Chrysalis surface. She smiled ''Of course you may!''
Cuddle Bug grinned and flew up to her Queen. She wrapped her front hooves around Chrysalis's neck and nuzzled her queen.
After that, Cuddle Bug flew off into one of the thousands of catacombs. Chrysalis's smile faded as she laid there on the throne. Ancient Empire suddenly reappears? The most powerful source of love since ever? Ruled by a dreadful though brilliant King? She wasn't certain what to make of it all.
She needed advice. No! What she needed was a plan b. She needed backup. Assistance. She had a passing thought 'Maybe Equestria? No, never! They wouldn't trust us, and more to the point, we shouldn't trust them!'
Then her eyes widened 'Of course! My sisters!' before returning to her skeptical expression. ''My sisters !'' She stopped, realizing she unintentionally spoke that thought.
This world was plagued with lies. As a changeling, there was nothing more comforting then to mask yourself from the enemy. As a changeling, there was nothing more refreshing then being honest with your family. Changelings couldn't trust anypony who wasn't a fellow changeling. Sadly, even changelings have lied to their own kind. It was an unspoken rule that creatures of deceit would always be honest with eachother. It was familial trust, and yet, some changelings took advantage of that trust. Her trust, specifically!
She pondered 'Perhaps I'm being too critical. We're family, whether some like it or not. As a respectful queen, I refuse to sink to the lows of a fellow queen!'
Queen Chrysalis stood up from her throne, and walked towards her chambers. She summoned ''Spitsting!''
Soon a drone-changeling with a scar running down his left eye came flying in. His wings had a lower, more distinct buzzing sound to it. Different then any other changeling in her hive.
Male changelings were drone-caste, thus their duty was to please their queen. Females were separated into two castes; worker-caste, who build, gather resources, and raise young, and soldier-caste, who're warriors, spies and scouts, love collectors, etc.
Spitsting saluted ''Yes, my Queen!''
''Schedule an audience with my royal sisters!'' spat Chrysalis.
''Which ones?'' asked the drone, who immediately regretted it upon seeing Chrysalis's glare.
The Queen stated, venomously ''All of them!''
Spitsting nodded ''Very well.''
''You may leave now.''
''You seem tense, my Queen,'' he eyed her with half lidded eyes ''May I finally fulfill my duty to you?''
Chrysalis giggled ''No, not yet.''
Spitsting signed ''Some day, my Queen?''
She confirmed ''Someday.''
The drone then left her to begin his mission.
With that, she retreated to her bed chambers.
Three days have passed since then. Today was the day. Queen Chrysalis had her proposal for her sisters all planned, and ready. She walked out to the main hole where her throne laid. The hives cavity was cleared out for the day, with all the workers, soldiers, and drones being servants who tend to the needs of her sisters. She wanted to be a good host for her extended family, and make them feel welcome. Chrysalis crafted each of them their own throne from each of the catacombs using green slime. It was only for the meeting, though.
As time passed, more and more queens showed up. Hundreds of them came to her meeting, whether for negotiation or to catch up on lost time or to exploit. They were only three of the many kinds of motives and intents that her many sisters could have. However, she made a point to remind everychangeling to speak honestly, for they are family. Changeling Queens had similar tall figure, but with different color schemes, with herself having a green hue. Aside from color, all changelings the world over shared the same jet black chitin with holes.
Soon the entire cavity was filled with Changeling Queens from around the world. Some chat, trading information. Others kept to themselves, sipping their drinks. Occasionally, there was a Queen or two who planned, but for what, Chrysalis didn't know. She noticed some of the thrones were occupied by what looked like average changelings with none of her sisters minding. Probably, just representatives for Queens who are too busy to leave their hive unattended.
After a half hour passed, Chrysalis sat down on her throne in the center of her surrounding sisters. She cleared her throat, echoing throughout the hive, getting her sisters attention.
Queen Chrysalis greeted ''Welcome, my fine sisters. I've requested you here today for assistance.''
She waited for interruption, yet none came. Good. She continued ''My spies have discovered a treasure unlike any or kind have seen in over a thousand years. My sisters, the Crystal Empire has returned!'' She got up and walked around her throne, gazing at her many equals. They all had a variety of expressions Some were shocked, others looked skeptical, and a few even put a hoof to their mouth to keep themselves from laughing. Yet, most of them took this news seriously, with their interests showing. She smirked ''The time has come to rise out of hiding, and seize our greatest means of survival. No longer will we hide in the shadows. Now's the time to act!''
One changeling queen spoke up, with a raspy voice ''Why should we trust you?''
Chrysalis looked to the sister who spoke. It was Queen Maxilla. Like Chrysalis, she was lean, but with crimson red hue. Her hair was a bit shorter, with small strands curving outwards as spikes, and one side of her face was covered by a wide strand of her hair which hanged down. With pink eyes, she glared down at her sister. She was rude and aggressive, not caring about much outside her hive. Still, she was definitely one of the more open-minded ones. Not caring about manipulation or trickery, only hiding and feeding.
Chrysalis rolled her eyes, and answered ''Why not? Aren't we family?''
Maxilla stood up, spatting ''Family? The hell do you know about family?!''
Chrysalis was surprised by Maxilla's hostility ''I'm sorry, but is something the matter?''
Maxilla exploded at her ''You have nerve talking to us about family, for somechangeling who thought it'd be a good idea to expose her people to Equestria, which resulted in the exposure of of our entire race, thus endangering us !!
Chrysalis stepped back ''I ...didn't know.''
''Calm yourself, Maxilla. We've all made mistakes in the past. And all of us-OK most of us, had come to their aid. Right now, is no different,'' Chrysalis looked to whichever sister came to her defense. It was one of the representative changelings. This blue changeling enveloped herself in blue fire, taking on the appearance of Queen Tibia. She was a sapphire blue changeling who wore a dress made of cotton. Her blue hair formed a bun with spider-like design. She looked down to her sister, with light blue, sympathetic eyes. She was more introverted and gentle then most. Tibia finished, with a serene smile and soft voice ''After all, we're family.''
Chrysalis couldn't help but wonder. Was she Tibia who took the form of a changeling, or was she a changeling taking her form and serving as a medium. Considering the unspoken rule about honesty among changelings, as well as Tibia's preference for pacifism, it was likely the later.
Tibia acknowledged ''Apologies, my sisters. But I'm busy at the moment, so I'm forced to send in a representative.''
Some queens nodded to that, but Maxilla scoffed ''Yeah, OK. Let's just ignore the fact that this is Chrysalis's fault.''
''Enough, Maxilla!''
Every queens eyes turned to the source of the voice. A violet changeling queen with a long wavy mane and tail stood from her throne. She was Queen Abdomen. Strict and serious, was how she was described. She gazed at all the other queens before her eyes landed on Chrysalis. Abdomen flew off of her throne and descended down to Chrysalis.
Once she landed, she trotted up to her and spoke elegantly ''Queen Chrysalis! You've exposed our entire race to the outside world. Though the damage isn't too bad, it's still unacceptable.'' She walked passed her and continued ''However, the Crystal Empire could prove to be your chance to make up for that failure.'' She walked towards her throne ''I only speak for myself when I say this, but I believe you should do this alone. Think of it as a second chance of sorts.'' Abdomen flew up to her throne.
''Objection!''
Again, all changeling eyes shifted to yet another queen. Her name was Queen Thorax. She was an unusually large queen, who possessed a orange puffy mane and tail. Her equally orange eyes formed a scowl, as she spoke with a low voice ''How can you let her do this by herself. This is the Crystal Empire, were talking about here. She's already shown to not care about us, so who's to say she wont betray us for her own selfish ambitions? Leave this to a sister who's not only trust worthy, but competent. Like me!''
Abdomen retorted, plainly ''Familial Trust!''
Thorax's eyes narrowed ''If that's how it is, then I'll go with her.'' then shot a glare at Chrysalis ''After all, somechangeling needs to make sure she doesn't fail.''
Abdomen facehoofed ''Thorax! If she fails, then we can take her as a warning of what not to do. If she succeeds then everychangeling wins. Besides, I know Chrysalis. She's the honorable type.''
It was true. Chrysalis was proud of both herself and her changelings, but was more proud of the familial moral she held for both her hive and her sisters. As much as it wounded her pride, she couldn't deny her responsibility for the failed invasion. She needed to make up for her failure. Chrysalis nodded ''Well spoken, Abdomen!'' then faced her sisters and announced ''For the sake of redemption, I shall go in alone. If I'm to fail, you'll lose a sister. However, if I'm victorious, you'll all be rewarded with an new supply of food.''
''That's not very reassuring!''
''You've got to be kidding me!''
''Are you serious? The outcome of this plan will effect us all?''
''I'm not letting her take all the spoils.''
Many of the changeling queens began talking amongst themselves. By now, Chrysalis didn't care if she was getting help or not, nether did she care if she was trusted or not. All that mattered to her was acquiring the Crystal Heart. For her changelings, her sisters, and her species in general.