Several months had passed since Prey’s sins were lifted, as well as his inner guilt. He’s felt more happier, happier than any samurai changeling could feel. His bonds and relationships with his friends and masters was the best he could ever hope for.

Right now, the bond between himself and his student Razor was still budding. The two were currently training. Razor’s training was consisted of continuously slashing the air in precise and well measured attacks. He was training with a katana, at least a wooden practice katana known as a boken, an equally weighted and thick wooden katana.

“Again.” Prey instructed towards Razor as he nodded.

“Hai sensei.” Razor responded in Japonese. Throughout his months of training, Prey and Twilight Sparkle offered to teach him the language of the samurai. As of now, he knows how to hold a basic conversation and say a few words. But his training and combat skills were more present than his language.

After acknowledging Prey’s command, Razor brought his boken up and slashed down, stopping his blow at his knees and turned the blade around as he brought it upwards with swift speed. He then thrusted his sword forward, turned the blade and slashed upwards, and brought it back down for one final slash. “Rrrrraaahh!” He roared adding more effort into that final slash as he breathed heavily from a tiring practice.

Prey examined every move he performed. His strikes were precise and his pauses were nearly perfect. He looked at his eyes, they were cross and narrow; filled with determination and focus.

“Iyoi.” (Good) Prey commented walking over to Razor. He summoned his own katana to his hip and pulled out the blade. “Razor-san. You know what this is yes?”

“Hai sensei. That is your katana.”

“What is a katana to a samurai?”

“A katana is the soul and spirit of a samurai.”

“Hai, very good.” Prey walked over to his satchel lying down next to a nearby log as he pulled out a spell book. He flipped through several pages and stopped at a certain spell marked ‘copycat’.

“Sensei, what is that?”

“This is a spell book I had borrowed from Twilight-sama. The spell known as ‘Copycat’, a spell I can use to make a temporary copy of my katana.”

“A copy of your katana? Why would you make a copy of your katana?”

Prey read through the text and concentrated on the runes inscribed into the book. He ushered a few hums as his katana and his horn began to glow a emerald green. After a few moments of focus, his eyes were glowed like pearls as his katana began to vibrate. Soon a copy of itself was beginning to manifest in front of him.

A bright flash appeared before them as Prey shut closed his eyes and the book. Both of the changelings slowly opening their eyes to see a physical copy of a Prey’s katana levitating in front of the two. “Take the katana Razor-san. Take it and be in position.”

Razor was somewhat surprised by his teacher’s command. He took the duplicated katana and held it tight in his grip. He bent his knees slightly and held the katana at shoulder level.

Prey took his katana own katana to his hand and held the blade behind him. “I want you to put all of your practice and training right here on me.”

Razor finally understood why he made a imitation of his teacher’s sword. He was being tested of his real skill, to see where his training finally took him. “I am ready sensei.”

Prey nodded and took the initiative. He started to charge towards Razor with his katana ready to swipe upwards from below.

Razor reacted by taking the back of his katana and slamming down against Prey’s upwards strike, being careful not to damage his blade. He stopped Prey’s blow in its tracks as he redirected his blade into the ground. He took this paused blow as an opportunity as he used a free hand and punching Prey in the face.

The punch only slightly fazed Prey as he kicked Razor back giving them space between the two. Prey then took his blade brought it above him, ready to slash down diagonally.

Razor brought his handle up, with the blade pointing downward having it block Prey’s blow. The blow was strong, as if two forces of wind clashes against each other. As Razor block Prey’s attack, he pulled his blade more upward having his blade slide across Prey’s blade and bringing it above him. He brought his blade down as the two clashed blades once again with Prey blocking Razor’s blow.

The two stayed like that, pushing against each other’s blade as the two swords were singing like snakes.

They both let go as Prey acted quickly and swung his blade across from his left, aiming for Razor’s neck.

Razor quickly ducked, avoiding Prey’s swipe as he swung at Prey’s side aiming for his hip.

Prey responded by striking down against Razor’s attempting blow, with his blade crashing down against Razor’s strike as both blades were brought to the ground.

Razor retaliated by pushing against his teacher’s sword, bring his and his master’s blade upwards.

They both felt open and exposed, but ready to take the final blow as they dropped any thought of anticipating incoming attacks. They both put all the power they had into their attack as they both brought down their blades, aiming for each other’s necks.

But they both stopped, pausing their intention to kill. They found that their blows ended before striking the neck, a sure and clean kill would have been assured.

With their blades at each other’s necks, they just simply stared at each other. Prey could see the still and cold eyes that lied within his student’s spirit. His eyes showed no fear, no stutter, and more importantly, no hesitation.

“Yoshi... tatte kudesai.” (Alright….stand down now.)

“Hai.” Razor responded as they both slowly stepped back. Razor’s mimic katana vanished into thin air as Prey gently slid his katana back into its sheath. They both bowed formally as breathed out any pressure built inside of themselves.

“Very good Razor-san. You have improved much throughout the months.”

Razor then bowed formally to his teacher. “Arigato sensei. I am doing my best.”

“Yes...Yes you are. Come with me, I want you to follow me to the castle.”

“Hai sensei.” Razor said with a bow as he followed his sensei. They took their time walking out of the Everfree forest, no encounters, and no interruptions. Once they had exited the forest, they continued walking towards the town and the castle.

“Razor-san…”

“Yes sensei?”

“Tell me again...why was it that you wanted to become a samurai?”

Razor stopped in his tracks. He looked up high at the clear blue sky, thinking about why he started training. What was he trying to achieve, what did he achieve? Strength, courage, wisdom were traits he had obtained throughout his training. Where could he use these skills? Home...he can use that at home. “Honestly master, I had almost forgotten. But I wanted to become a samurai to get stronger. Strong enough to defend and protect my kind, my kingdom, and my friends.”

“I see...good.” The two eventually reached the castle. He opened the front door, allowing Razor to enter first as he followed from behind. “Come, there is something I must give you.”

Razor was beginning to feel puzzled by his master’s actions. He did as he was told and followed his master, eventually reaching his personal room.

Prey opened the door and allowed his student to enter his room. It as still the same room, but with a few changes. There were a few suits of samurai armor properly displayed on their stands, as well as racks holding weapons used by Prey and the samurai.

“Razor-san, Hizamazuite kudasai.” (Razor, please kneel down.) Razor nodded and knelt down, sitting on both of his legs and placing his hands on his lap very respectfully. Prey then walked over to a weapons rack which contained four true made katanas. He looked at the katanas, and noticed a one with an oceanic blue sheath and handle. He grabbed the katana and walked over to Razor who was still kneeling.

He knelt down in front of Razor. He held the katana by the sheath, having it rest horizontally on both of his hands as he slowly presented it to Razor. “Razor-san. Do you know what this is?”

Razor could feel a chilling feeling coming from the blade, he did not know why. He looked at his master in the eye. “This is a katana sensei.”

“Iie. Katana janai. Kore wa, anata no katana desu.” (No, this is not a katana. This is your katana.) Prey said with Razor having his eyes widen in shock. “Take it Razor.”

“H-Hai.” He said with a hiccup as he gently grasped the sheath with both of his hands. He slowly pulled the blade out of its scabbard and held the blade up, admiring its clean steel shine and sharp blade. “Se-Sensei….are you sure I deserve this?”

“Hai. Wield this blade with pride and honor. Serve your kind and others. Help any and all who request. But more importantly, serve your master well.”

“I will sensei. But who will be my master?”

“I am no longer your sensei, and as for your master, you must look for one. Maybe Emperor Thorax can be your master, or my masters, or Luna-hime and Celestia-hime. I do not know, but I am certain you can find one.”

They both stood up and shook hands, like brothers. “Domo Arigato Gozaimasu sensei.” Razor said with a smile. “I know you told me not to call you that, but you will always by my sensei in my heart.”

Prey chuckled. “Well, I suppose that is fair. What will you do now samurai?”

“For now, I will stay with the diamond dogs. They are like family to me. But I might go back to the kingdom, since I want to protect my kind. I just want to stay with the diamond dogs for a little longer, just to make sure they are protected long enough.”

“I see, then I wish you the best of luck.”

“Thank you sensei.” They smiled at each other. Suddenly, the slight sound of footsteps was around them. Both of them had ears twitching, they had their swords ready and their grips tight. A breaking sound echoed from the main map room.

“Razor with me, I want to see if my master is okay.”

“Hai Sensei.” The two rushed out of Prey’s room and headed straight for the map room. They arrived to see that the room was entirely pitch black.

“Razor, ready your sword.” Prey whispered as Razor nodded. They both pulled out their katanas and slowly entered the dark room, waiting and looking for anything to assault them.

Suddenly the door behind them closed, blinding both of them. Then, the lights popped on as the two samurai were entirely surrounded.

However the surrounding force around them was not of an enemy, but instead were multiple Ponyville ponies and all of Prey’s masters.

“SURPRIIIISSSSEE!!!!” They all cheered as confetti and balloons rained down from above. Prey and Razor chuckled as they put away their blades, knowing that no enemy was present.

Prey looked around to find all of his masters smiling at him. “Happy one year in Ponyville Prey!” Pinkie Pie said with a big smile. “And congratulations on becoming a samurai Razor!” She complimented with a brimming smile.

“Thank you Pinkie. I’m kind of surprised that I am one to be honest.” He said with a bow to Prey’s master.

“Omedetou Razor-san.” (Congratulations Razor.) Twilight said with a nod to the newly appointed changeling. “And Prey-san, happy one year anniversary.”

“One year? What do you mean one year Twilight-sama?”

Applejack walked over to her coltfriend, pecking him on the cheek and wrapping an arm around him. “You don’t know sugarcube? It’s been exactly one year since you came to Ponyville.”

Prey’s eyes widened, was it true? He felt that it hasn’t been one year. It went by so fast. “Hountou?” (Really?)

“Yea really! You said “really” right?” Rainbow guessed.

“H-Hai. Yes Rainbow, I did say that.”

“Well then, let’s Partyyy!!!” Pinkie cheered with the whole room exploding in cheer and celebration.

Prey began to celebrate with the ponies, since he felt like he was a part of them. He still could not believe he has lived and served his pony masters for a whole year. He did much celebrating with them, and more importantly with his masters.

He had even received gifts from his masters as well. At first, Prey did not any gifts. He thought he didn’t deserve any. But Twilight had explained in further detail that since they didn’t know Prey’s exact birth date, this would be a good alternative to a birthday.

Twilight had given him a book based on more advanced spells.

Fluttershy had given him a hand knitted sweater.

Rainbow Dash, being the somewhat narcissistic master he’d come to know gave him Wonderbolt posters of herself. All signed by herself to add more value.

Pinkie Pie had already given him the whole party, but it wasn’t enough for her. She had given him a very special cupcake. A single individual cupcake that Pinkie claimed to be the only one of its kind. Prey had asked why and Pinkie responded with, “Because it has your name on it.” She simply said.

Admiring her childish nature, he took it as a compliment.

Rarity gave him something he admired more. It was a simple hat she had made for him. The hat was a black synthetic leather cadet cap. Prey took the hat and wore it with minor self pride, he felt it looked good on him.

Applejack had the most special gift for him. She walked up to him and presented it. It was….nothing?

She physically had nothing in her possession. Prey was confused at her gift, where there any hint as to what she has as a present? “A-Applejack…. what is your present?”

She gently grabbed hold of his hand and moved it over to where her stomach was.

Prey was confused, was it her stomach? Was she hungry? “Applejack. What is this present?”

“Prey….Ah know we ain’t married, but…..well…..”

Prey was still confused, he had already known that they weren’t married. He just could not figure out what Applejack was trying to say.

“Prey….Ah’m pregnant.” His eyes widened immensely. Everything welt light with his kneels feeling numb as he dropped down to his knees. “Prey!” Applejack and Razor came to his aid and helped him stand up.

He soon came back into reality and took a few reassuring breaths. “*Pant* *Pant* I….I am okay. I am okay.” he said through a few breaths making sure the others knew he was okay.

“Are you sure sugar cube?”

“I-Yes...I am okay. I am just….”

“Shocked?” Applejack guessed for him.

“Yes...just….shocked and...surprised.” Twilight levitated a chair over for PRey to sit down. He sat down on the chair for him to come to terms of the news brought to him. “How...how is this possible?”

“Ah don’t know sugarcube, but Ah don’t care. The more important question is, would you accept this?”

Prey looked down at his hands, the hands that have done so much. It has spilled so much blood, but has helped many souls in the process. But can it help raise a soul? Not to mention, a new kind of soul, a hybrid of pony and changeling. It was something that was thought impossible, but he was willing to try.

“Yes….I can accept this. But what about your brother and your sister? Do they know?”

“No, not yet. Ah plan on telling them soon.”

“I just….I just don’t understand how it is possible. For us to have...a child.” He said with sweat trickling down his head. He stood up and faced the exit. “I am happy about this news Applejack, truly I am. I just...need a minute. This is very sudden for me.”

“Ah understand sugarcube. Take a breather if you need.”

Prey nodded and walked out of the map/party room and proceeded outside. He took a deep breath to help clear his senses and gain some natural feel in his lungs. He slumped back against the wall, slowly sliding onto the ground with him sitting on the dirt. He chest felt heated and his eyes were feeling blurry.

He started to think to himself about the current condition he was in.

A child...I have never had or taken care of a child before. Can I...can I really take care of a child? Does a murderer like me deserve children?

“Excuse me?” A voice called out to Prey, but he didn’t pay it any mind.

Why do I get so much fortunate opportunities in my life? Do I even deserve this?

“Excuse me.” The voice called out again, but more demanded. Prey snapped back into reality and noticed that a pony was standing before him.

“O-Oh my apologies. I was, thinking about a few things.” He stood up and met eye level with the pony. The pony was a dark green stallion with a purple mane and tail color combination. “Can I help you?”

“Yes, tell me. Are you a changeling?” He said with a unsettling large smile.

Prey had an awkward feeling about this pony. “Yes I am.”

“Are you a samurai?”

“Y-Yes.”

“Samurai wa shinu koto ga dekimasu ka?” (Can samurai die?)

Prey widened his eyes, the pony spoke perfect japonese. Something only very few individuals are able to do. “W-What did you say?” Suddenly, the pony quickly reached behind him and pulled out a dagger. The dagger was much like a katana, but much more shorter and smaller as he thrusted it towards Prey’s chest.

Prey through instinct swiped his hand across making it deflect the hostile pony’s attack. “N-Nanda?” (W-What the-) Prey punched the pony in the face, but the assassin was unfazed by his punch as he soon aimed the dagger at Prey’s left shoulder.

The assassin’s blade was sharp and his strength was strong as the dagger had gone through Prey’s samurai jacket and his tough citin. The blade had sunk inside his flesh as the pain from the attack was immense which caused Prey to roar out loudly in pain. “AAAAGHHHH….k-k-kussoooo.” (D-ddammmit) He hissed out.

Prey quickly summoned his katana to his side and quickly pulled it out, making sure that the pommel of his handle had clocked the stallion’s chin. This blow was strong enough to knock the stallion back and give Prey some space.

Back inside the castle, the painful scream of the samurai had echoed throughout the castle, but was filtered from the joyous noises from within the party. But not everypony was oblivious to Prey’s cry of pain.

Razor felt an uncommon twitch in his ear. He perked up and made a unsure look on his face. He looked around to see where Prey was, but could not find him anywhere.

“Is something wrong Razor?” Rarity asked.

“I thought I had heard something strange.” He looked around more, but his sensei was nowhere to be found. “Where is Prey?”

“I believe he said he was going outside for some fresh air. Why do you ask?”

His chest had a stinging and uncomfortable feeling to it, he felt something was wrong. “Something is wrong, I think I heard him scream.”

Applejack perked in at the sound of this words. “What do you mean something is wrong?”

His face grew worrisome. “I need to find him, I cannot explain it or put it into greater detail. But something is wrong with him. I need to find him.”

“Then Ah’m commin with you.” Razor nodded as he and Applejack began to leave the party. As soon as they left the party, the music and fun time noises were lighter, but were soon replaced with a more disturbing noise. They both heard screaming, screaming that was filled with blood and pain. Applejack instantly recognized that scream. “It’s Prey!”

“He sounds painful, we must find him. It sounds like it is coming from outside.” Razor held his newly given katana tight by his side as the two of them began to sprint towards the main door of the castle.

Upon reaching the door, they quickly opened the door and they found Prey fighting with a pony wielding a katana looking dagger. They both noticed the green blood bleeding from Prey’s jacket, he wasn’t doing so well into the fight.

“Sensei!” Razor called out as he pulled out his katana.

“IIE! YAMERU! Let me finish this fight.” (NO! STOP!) Prey commanded straightening up into position. He pointed his sword down towards the ground in the of him, ready for a counter attack.

The assassin satanically licked his blade and charged towards the samurai ready to slash at his chest. It gripped his dagger below his wrist ready to stake it downwards at Prey’s chest.

Prey responded by bringing his blade up, having the back of his katana deflect the assassin’s strike and causing the weapon to fly off of his hand. He took this opportunity to grab the now unarmed stallion with his left hand and jab him in the face with the now orange glowing to stun and blind his vision.

Prey then headbutted him and took his blade and precisely thrusted his blade through the stallion’s leg in order to cripple him and not kill him. The stallion cried out in pain and a bright green flash appeared before the samurai’s eyes.

In the stallion place wasn’t a pony at all, instead there standing with a sword through his leg was a changeling. This changeling had a very shocking appearance, as it had black chitin and sky blue eyes exactly like Prey. He is a precursor, like Prey. He was wearing dark blue clothing all around his body along with a mask to cover his mouth.

This shocked both Prey and Razor, they did not expect a precursor changeling to nearly match up to Prey.

Putting his surprise to the side, Prey acted quickly as he headbutted the changeling assassin, making sure to him hard enough to knock him out. Prey took his blade out of his leg as the assassin fell to the ground, completely silent of breathing and out like a light.

Prey calmly let out a few breaths of relief as he gently put his katana back into his sheath. The bleeding from the assassin’s attacks finally took its toll on Prey as he fell to his knees.

“Prey!” Both Razor and Applejack yelped as they rushed to his aid, lifting him up to his knees.

“R-Razor-san, take him inside the castle. Take him to my room...and….tie him up. Tie his hands, wings, legs, and mouth shut. A magic suppression ring is inside, I keep it under my bed. Use it.”

“H-Hai Sensei.” Razor said lifting up the unconscious assassin and rushing to the castle. But he was instantly stopped as Prey grabbed his wrist.

Prey looked at him with cold dead crossed eyes. “Do NOT take this lightly gakusei...I fear….I fear he is something us samurai hated long ago.” Prey hissed through some grunts as Razor gulped a pill a fear.

“H-Hai sensei. I will be careful.” Razor said quickly rushing inside the castle, carrying the assassin.

Prey and Applejack started to slowly make their way inside the castle. Applejack was holding up Prey by the shoulders. Prey himself was trying to keep himself awake, slowly limping his way inside. “C’mon sugarcube, let’s get you inside the castle. Yer all banged up.”

“Y-Yes...p-please. I need to….try and remember-” He stopped to cough up blood.

“Take it easy sugarcube. Just relax, we’ll get Nurse Redheart and she’ll get you fixed up.”

Prey nodded as he let Applejack assist him into the castle.

After some time had passed with Prey’s wounds being bandaged and Razor and the others sercurly making sure the assassin was restrained.

Right now Prey was in Twilight’s bed with Applejack sitting with him. She was tenderly rubbing her hand against Prey’s stabbed wound, which was bandaged with several layers. She had a face of worry, she had never seen Prey this injured before.

“Applejack, I am fine.”

“Ah know that….but there was a lot of blood. Your blood.”

“I know, hai. And I believe there might be more. I am sorry that you had to see that. I was not ready for his attack. He had surprised me.”

“But normally you’re prepared. What happened?”

“Well, like I had said, he had surprised me. But, I had also let my guard down. I was still overcome with shock and surprise from well…” He said looking at Applejack’s stomach region.

“Oh...well then. I guess I should apologize for surprising ya so bad.” Applejack said with a low tone. “Ah kinda feel guilty now. If I hadn’t surprised you like this, you wouldn’t be so hurt and injured.”

Prey gently hend Applejack’s hand. “It is okay Applejack. You have nothing to be sorry for. It is not your fault.”

Applejack smiled and leaned in, pecking Prey on his forehead making sure to avoid his horn. “Thanks sugarcube.”

Prey smiled as a knocking came from the bedroom door. Fluttershy opened the door and peaked her head inside. “Umm, how is Prey doing?”

Prey slowly rose his head and faced his master. “I am doing well Fluttershy. I had experienced worse before.”

“Well, the other changeling is awake. If you’d like to see him.”

Prey slowly climbed out of bed and made his way out of Twilight’s bed room and began to walk to his room. Upon entered the room he found the assassin sent to kill Prey on his knees with many levels of security. The bindings were tied on his as requested, Razor was holding his sword ready to strike, Rainbow Dash stood by ready to clobber the changeling, and Twilight and Starlight had a bubble of magic around him to prevent his escape.

Prey bowed down to everybody. “Konichiwa mina-san. Has this changeling said anything?” (Hello everybody)

“Iie sensei. He has not spoken a single word.” (No, teacher)

Prey sighed heavily and turned towards his master Twilight. “Twilight-sama, Starlight-san, may I ask the two of you to release your magic on him? I would wish to speak to this changeling.”

The two magic users nodded and released their magic bubble and kept their horns glowing, ready for any tricks the changeling might perform.

Prey walked up to the changeling and sat down to his level. He looked at him with crossed eyes. “Who are you?” He asked in a rough tone.

The changeling remained silent and continued to frown at Prey.

“I will ask again, who are you? Anata no dare desuka?” (Who are you?)

The changeling then spat at his face and hissed at Prey. “Kisama, Kuso Kurae!” (Eat shit you!)

Prey and Twilight were shocked at the words he spoke, the words were Japonese. Prey grew a frown on his face as he grabbed the changeling by his horn. “Anata wa Nanimo no Desuka!?” (What are you?)

The changeling assassin smiled maliciously as he look at Prey and spoke, “Boku wa, Shinobi desu.” (I am a shinobi!)

Prey’s eyes grew wide as he punched the changeling’s face, leaving a very visible bruise.

“Woah! Prey, whats wrong?” Rainbow Dash asked as Prey noticed the shinobi swallow something. Prey quickly kicked the shinobi in the stomach, attempting to have him vomit what he had swallowed. But his attempts were futile as the shinobi started to vomit out green blood and foam soon flooding out.

Everypony was shocked as the shinobi soon dropped the the ground with blood and foam dripping from his mouth and his eyes turning white. Prey placed his fingers on his neck and found no pulse, the shinobi was dead.

“What is Celestia’s name happened!?” Twilight asked. “And how does he know Japonese? Not many changelings speak it, especially changelings during Chrysalis’ reign.”

Prey sighed as he levitated his blanket and gently placed it over the shinobi, burying him and putting him to rest. “Masters, this is known as a Shinobi. A warrior of shadow.”

“A shinobi? What the heck is a shinobi?”

“A shinobi is a dangerous warrior, and something taboo in changeling society. They are changelings. Changelings who’s blood is magically and scientifically altered, becoming a hybrid.”

“Altered? Altered with what?”

“Blood...samurai blood.” Prey said with the room growing quiet.

“H-How...how is that possible?” Twilight asked.

“By mixed the blood of a regular changeling and a samurai changeling, a queen can create a hybrid changeling. They are almost as strong as samurai, but they are much faster. They are experts at stealth and espionage, but there is one fatal flaw about them.

“Shinobi age at a rapid rate. In the span of one year, they can reach full adulthood, making them easily replaceable. But their aging is so fast, that they wither and die faster than a normal changeling.”

“So why did this shinobi attack you sensei? Who would have the magical ability to raise these changelings?”

“I can only think of one queen.”

“Chrysalis…” They all guessed in unison.

“Hai. I suppose when I had served her previously, she had samples of my blood. And knew about shinobi. As to how she knew how she bred them or had any knowledge about them….I do not know.”

“Prey, what were shinobi back then really?”

“I do not know exactly. The samurai records barely kept anything about the shinobi. All we know about them was how they were made, what they are good at, and why they were made.”

“Then the next question is... why?”

“Yes, “why” is a good question. If I remember back then there was a dispute in the old kingdom. At one time there were two queens, and one of them had full control of the samurai. The other queen however did not. This queen became jealous of her co-leader’s power that she herself bred her form of warriors, opposite to the samurai. There is not much about these warriors, only that they were known as shinobi, and they were a near equal match to the samurai.”

“So how did they fight then?”

“I do not know. I had never fought shinobi before. This is very new to me, but I believe I can still win if I am careful enough. However, this brings up a new concern masters. Chrysalis must be planning something soon.”

“I think you’re right Prey.” Twilight said. “We should inform Princess Cele-”

Suddenly without a second to prepare, the shinobi’s corpse suddenly exploded as green blood splattered everywhere and dark grey smoke started to flood the entire room. The smoke was heavy and thick as it dug its way into everyone’s eyes and lungs, making it difficult to see and breath.

Prey was coughing, but the only thing he could think about was all of his masters’ safety. He looked around to try and grab any of his masters until he felt something clock him in the back of his head. Darkness was soon filling Prey’s vision as the last the he heard before blacking out were pleas of help and sounds of struggling.

Hours later Prey was starting to feel a gentle tug on his back. He didn’t know what it was, but his vision and consciousness was slowly coming back to him as he opened his eyes with eas.

The first thing he saw was his room ceiling. He rose upward and found that Razor and Spike were sitting with him.

“Prey, are you alright?” Spike asked holding his hand.

Prey rubbed the back of his head from the blow he took before to numb the pain. “H-Hai. N-Nani Ga Okotta?” (What had happened?)

“Sensei. I had only woken up shortly, but I was awake before you were knocked out. More changelings came out from the smoke explosion and attack us, kidnapping everyone except for us.”

Prey froze at his student’s words. “Nani!? W-Where is Applejack!?” He asked in a panicked tone.

“Gone Prey, along with the other girls.”

Prey calmly and collectively sighed heavily as his face turned cross, giving off a stare that would cause a mountain to shrink into a canyon. “She….will...pay.” Prey proclaimed.

He and the others stood up as Spike tugged at Prey’s arm. “What do we do Prey? Should we call the other princesses?”

Prey sadly shook his head. “I do not think that would be a good idea Spike. If Chrysalis has them now as hostages, she has the power to make the choices. If we call more powerful allies, then my masters are at risk of becoming…. insurance.” He said fearing for his master’s future safety.

Suddenly, the window in Prey’s room shattered as an object flew its way from the window and across Prey’s room, landing and implanting itself on Prey’s door.

Spike ducked, fearing for his life and safety, but Prey and Razor simply dodged and avoided the object thrown at the window.

Both of the samurai looked at the object stuck on Prey’s door. It was a metal star looking object with four sharp prongs in a ring like fashion. In the middle of it was a hole with a note tied to it. Prey untied the note and read it.

My Dear dear samurai Prey,
I’m very disappointed you decided to serve these ponies who know nothing of true honor and respect. As punishment for your treachery and betrayal to my order, I have decided to take what is most important to you, your quote on quote “masters”. If you want to see them safe, alive, and back at home, you will return to me and serve me once again, or else your masters and child will die under my hand.

I am located deep within the Everfree forest, where you and your other samurai have trained. We have watched you, studied you, and have seen that you have made “friends”, disgusting. Be aware, if you decide to bring in the other princesses or “Emperor” Thorax to your aid, we will execute your “masters”. Come alone, and if you would like, bring your other new samurai peasant if he wishes to serve me under a true changeling rule.

~Your True Master

Chrysalis

“Sensei….what do we do?”

Prey calmly folded up the note and placed it on the ground, he then took a foot and stomped upon the note, making sure those words from Chrysalis were buried and mistreated. He then walked over to Razor and pulled him over to his several suits of samurai armor that were decoratively displayed.

“We do as she asks Razor.”

“Nani!? W-Why sensei!? Are you giving up?” Razor could not believe what his teacher had just said.

“Iie, a samurai never gives up. A samurai protects his or her master in any way, shape, or form. I have a plan, but we need to try and give Chrysalis the most loyal samurai she has ever recieved. But it will be...how can I say this…”

“A trap sensei?”

“Hai, A trap. We will become that trap.” He said walking over to a suit of samurai armor. “Take and use whatever armor you wish to use here Razor. Take as many weapons as you need and be sure to have some to hold on to yourself. I will do the same, but there is one suit I must take for myself, one that was made for me.”

“Which one is that sensei? Where is it?”

“It is in the New Kingdom. I must request to borrow and use it from Thorax. Spike, can you write a letter?”

“Yea sure, to Thorax?” He asked taking out a quill and parchment.

“Hai, please tell him to use a teleportation spell on the “Oni Ryuu” armor.”

“The Oni Ryuu? How do you spell that?”

“It is spelled O-N-I space R-Y-U-U. Tell him to use a teleportation spell on that set of armor and send it to the castle. Please tell him in the letter to do it as soon as possible and not to ask any questions. I will sign it myself to make sure he knows that it is me who requested it.”

After a minute of writing down his request, Spike finished it as he handed the parchment and quill to Prey. Prey then wrote down his signature in Japonese characters. “Okay, now please send the letter.” Spike rolled it up and tied it with a red ribbon. He blew fire onto the letter as the green embers carried to letter out of Prey’s broken window and into the air.

“Now we wait.” Prey then looked over and noticed that Razor was eyeing one of the suits of samurai armor. It was the black and navy blue suit of armor that Prey used in his battle against Shining Armor. “That is a good suit Razor-san.”

“It looks...beautiful and strong.”

“Yes, its color shines fine, but its real purpose is protection and add intimidation. If you would like, you can wear it.”

“R-Really sensei? A-Are you sure?”

“Yes, be my guest Razor-san.” Razor nodded as he carefully picked up the helmet, admiring its craftsmanship.

Then, in a utter surprise, a ring of light appeared in the middle of Prey’s room. The light then turned into a ay that projected upwards as a large chest with a samurai marking character was labeled on it. Prey’s phone then began to ring, he picked it up and saw that the caller ID had Thorax’s name on it. He sighed heavily and answered his phone.

Prey! Whats going on? Why did you request this piece of armor!? Thorax exclaimed from the other side of the country.

“Thorax-san, all is….not well. I need this armor for the safety of my masters. Please do not look for me or come after me. I will and can handle this. Sayonara.” (goodbye)

NO PREY, WAI-

Prey hung up on Thorax and shut down his phone completely. He tossed his phone onto his bed and opened the chest that Thorax had sent. He pulled out what was a helmet with large black horns protruding from the top symmetrically. He put on the helmet, tying it under his chin and proceed to pull out another piece of armor from the chest.

He pulled out the armor’s chest piece, which contained actual scales stitched to the armor like roof shillings. Spike looked at Prey’s new armor and recognized that the scales on it weren’t pretend. They were actual scales. “Woah! Prey, aren’t those scales?” He asked in surprise

“Yes they are Spike-san. Dragon scales?”

“D-Dragon scales?”

“Yes….this armor is made from a dragon. A dragon like you.” He said with a sad tone. He glanced over to the childish dragon to see him shivering in fear. He walked over and knelt down to Spike’s level. “Allow me to tell you this Spike-san. I will never, ever do this to your, or any dragon friend you would befriend. The thought of using other dragons as armor and tools almost sickens me.”

“W-Well...why did you do it?”

“This armor….is made from a bad dragon. A dragon who tried to destroy all of the changelings.”

“I remember this one sensei. It was four years before we invaded Canterlot. A dragon came in and ravaged our lands and our kingdom. Pharynx and the whole army of drones had tried to take it out together, but it didn’t work. That is until Prey came in and defeated the dragon, as well as killing him.”

“W-Why? Why did you kill him?”

“Unfortunately Spike-san, the dragon did not give us a choice. It was either his life, or all of our lives. After I had killed him, Chrysalis had ordered me to commit another sin I was not comfortable with. This one however was much lighter compared to the ponies I had executed. Chrysalis had ordered me to dissect the dragon and skin it of its scales to construct armor, the armor that you see here.”

“I did not enjoy it Spike, and wearing this armor sickens me to my stomach. However the samurai in the past did not have as much consciousness as I do now. They wore that armor with pride as it brought them great protection, but when I wear this armor all I feel is guilt. But...I have to make an exception.”

Prey gently placed a hand on top of Spike’s head. He smiled at the little purple drake while rubbing in head. “Listen to me Spike-san. Sometimes, we have to do things we do not like in order to save others. I have to wear this armor that I do not like for it to give me the best protection.”

Spike slowly grabbed Prey’s hand with both of his claws. He made Prey let go of his scalp and ran up to the samurai and gave him a hug. The hug had a desperate vibe to it as tears were running down his cheeks. “Please...Please save Twilight and the others.”

“I will Spike-san. You have my word.” Prey said standing up and turning around to face Razor. “Razor-san. We must prepare quickly, we will leave for the forest tomorrow.”

“Hai Sensei.” Razor responded with a bow. He then saw that Prey was walking to his bed and he knelt down and reached under his mattress. Prey had then retrieved a black box as he placed it on top of his bed and opened it. The red aura was glowing from the insides of the box which caught Razor’s curiosity. Prey had retrieved a red menacing mask, one that had fangs and horns protruding from it.

“Sensei...Sore wa….nandesuka. Sore wa osoroshiku miemasu.” (Master, what is that? It looks scary.)

Prey sighed as he placed the mask behind him on his lower back, making sure it was securely attached and away from his face. “Kore wa, Oni no masuku desu.” (This is Oni’s Mask)

“O-Oni? Oni wa...dare desuka?” (Oni? Who is Oni?)

“Oni….Oni was a samurai like us Razor-san. A dangerous one who had a mask which granted unmatched strength. But his mask is dangerous, even today. I had used before and nearly lost my own sense of self control, but it will help.”

“Sensei….are you going to wear it?” Razor asked with hesitation in his tone, fearing for his teacher’s safety.

“Only when I need to Razor-san. If the shinobi and Chrysalis have me on my knees, then I will wear the mask. But, I must ask you a favor. Should I lose control of myself from this mask, strike me down. Strike me down and cut my head off, only then will the evil within this mask will wither away with me.”

Razor’s jaw dropped at such a request. He felt conflicted at the thought of killing his own master. “S-Sensei I-”

“Razor-san. You are a samurai, and if I am your master as you wanted me to be, you must follow my command. That is the duty of us samurai.”

“H...Hai...sensei.” There was a bit of sorrow in Razor’s tone.

“Now, get ready. We must present well and armed, if we are to join Chrysalis.”

Author's Note

So here is another chapter guys. But I wanna say this.

I want to dedicate this chapter and rest of this story to my dog Max who had recently passed away. This is why it kind of took a while to get this particular chapter done. I had finished my mourning and I'll miss the little bud.

I wanted to thank billykilly , Mkchief34 , Vertex , and No0one for the kind words and condolences. This chapter is for you lads as well.

Much love and get yourself a cup of coffee (or tea). Ya'll deserve it.