My Little Pony: Stormbreaker

Record 06: Crystal Vampire

The sounds of war were hushed, with only the victor left standing on the battle field just outside the Crystal Empire. Groups of guards were at work carting the bodies of friend and foe alike, moving the defeated to a place to be buried in one, massive grave, while the fallen comrades were to be processed more selectively. Along with the grim task of corpses, the Changelings were also being sorted, led into the holding area that was quickly erected to keep them in, and curious, or even spiteful, ponies out. The zone would be improved in time, but for now it was enough to do a simple job. The remaining survivors were free to return to their duties, be healed, or take rest as needed. Sweetie Belle had a special salve that would react to the Changelings, or anything not in true form, and it was being used to screen every creature that passed the magick barrier. They could not be too careful, in making sure no rogue Changeling, or even a bold Umbrum, be allowed free roam.

From far out in the field, a lone guard was struggling to reach their home. They appeared to be part of the group that had chased the Umbrum back to their portals, and they were clearly in a poor state. Prince Shining Armor, still keeping eyes upon the field for any trouble, nodded to one of the guards nearest him and the pony was sent out to investigate the figure.

“Halt” The guard called to the other, slowing to a trot as they neared them. “All who seek to enter the Empire, must-” He stopped short, as the others eyes flared red, and the investigating guard became entranced.

“You performed the test, and he is as he seems to be. Now lead them back to the Crystal Empire, and act normal” The impostor commanded, using some mind magick on the pony.

Returning with the trickster, the guard confirmed with Shining the identity of the other as just another pony. The prince turned attention to the illusion. “Get to the med tent soldier, that limp seems bad”

“Thank you sir, but this one will be fine” They returned. “Just a little tired. It would do better with some rest, and it’s sure the doctors have more to deal with than a weary pony”

Shining narrowed his eyes, though found no reason to really be concerned; aside from a strange way of talking. The guard said he was cleared, and it was true that all the healers had more to be concerned with. “Very well, but if you are well enough to avoid the tents, you can keep watch here for a little while. With our numbers so thin, we can use those who can still stand” He summoned his magick, and sealed up the opening in the shield, as the last of the teams returned for the evening. “It won’t be long before a fresh shift will be here to relieve you both” He attempted to be a bit lighter toward them. “If you need to sit, I won’t make a fuss. After such a battle, any of us are lucky to have the chance to relax at all” They both gave a salute, and the prince was off, looking to be running on vapors.

After some time passed, the spell on the real guard was gone, and they had no knowledge of it. He began to talk to the other, thinking nothing of any deception. “What a day, or, last few days” The intruder just grunted in response. “We made it though, and it’s all over now” They spoke with a hopeful ignorance.

“Over?” The liar was ready to relieve the other of their ignorance. “With all those Changelings inside this shield? That’s alone is a time bomb, then factor that two of the Apex Villains have fallen, a void has formed, and is only a matter of time before another tried for their territories. It’s far from over”

“Well… yeah” He understood the meaning, but was not yet affected by the purpose of the words. “None of the others have shown interest in us, and besides we are a stronger, more unified Empire. We beat back Sombra and Chrysalis” He looked toward the area the Changelings were, adding. “I doubt those buggy creatures will be too dangerous without their queen. We’re safer now than ever” He gave a happy sight, and looked skyward. “My family can relax”

Peeking the interest in the impostor, they asked. “Family?”

“Oh yeah, I have quite a nice life going in this post apocalyptic world. A great wife, and three beautiful kids. They can be a hooffull, but I love each of them” He laughed a bit, lost in his thoughts of them. “They always worry about me, but daddy always comes home at the end of the day. Sometimes it was a little touchy, especially when this battle started, but I feel more sure than ever that dear ol dad will be home” He looked to the impostor. “You have family?”

Looking out to the darkening field of snow, they were silent for a moment. They responded, but with some bitterness. “No. Never had need for anypony, and don’t want to be tied down” They soon came an awkward silence between them, that lasted until the illusion pointed toward an alley. “What was that?” The true guard looked quick, but saw nothing. “Something was just watching, and ducked into the dark before they could be seen” Making a poor attempt to move, the fake guard was stopped.

“You are worn out, let me go check. Probably some foals wanting to look at the battlefield or something” He galloped off, coming just shy of the entrance. He did not believe it to be anything, but still was cautious as he trotted into the area. The night was now covering the land, and the light did not shine bright here from the lamps, so the guard summoned a bit of his own. He was a bit spooked by the possibilities, but he did not see any more than he did before. A sound behind him startled him, and he whipped around, only finding the other he had been standing with before. “I don’t see anything, probably nothing but shadows playing tricks… wait… how’d you get over here so fast with that limp?”

“Must be the comfort of knowing all is well” They grinned. “She is feeling much better”

Turning around to give one last look, missing the use of another pronoun by the deceiver, the guard found nothing more than before. “Any way, looks like a waste of time, but I guess it could be worse” He laughed.

“She is bad enough for you” The impostor said with a lust in their tone. “And you’ll be just enough for her” They moved quickly, and overpower the pony. With a sickly, red magick, the guard was silenced and their helm removed. Fangs sank deep into his neck, and energy was flowing like their blood, toward the assailant’s horn. The victim pony was soon a shriveled husk, nothing but dried remains of a once living soul.

The corpse fell, and the impostor stood over them as the crimson trails leaked down their chin, then soon licked away to a mouth never satisfied. “Seems daddy won’t be coming home…” With a crueler grin, the being changed into the fallen. “Truly a monster could only be so vile to disappoint those poor foals, or a loving wife” Laughing darkly to themselves, this new threat was loose in the Empire, and they drifted into the shadows to spread their wickedness.

***

Shining Armor had gone to where the Changelings were being held, and was speaking now with the one who had joined Dust in the rebellion. “You all will be safe here, and so long as you cause no trouble, you are welcome to this section of the Empire” He took a brief glance around the area. “We had been building some places for the refugees, so it is a bit underdeveloped, but in time it will be…” Shining sighed, knowing just how pointless it was to pretty up the situation. “Look, I know it’s a gilded cage here, and will remain so until we can be sure of one another. It’s going to take time, likely longer than the settlement will. There is a lot of bad history, especially between Princess Cadence and myself, and it’s not exclusive to us. In spite of this, I also acknowledge what was done by your people, so within reason, if you have anything you need to make this better, just ask”

“You have given us a second chance, and I can’t say many would do that. It is hard to think of asking any more” The cursory leader responded, still humbled and respectful to their savior. “We have chosen to take what you were willing to give us, and it is more than most of us feel we deserve” She did not need to see, for it was well accounted for, the weariness of her kind. “Do not feel bad for us, it is more than most enemies would even consider. We hope we can establish better relationships in our time here, and will make do with what we have been given”

Shining took all this in, looking for any hidden ploys or manipulations, but he was feeling that she was being genuine. “Seeing how you lead those rebels, and have spoken for your kind, am I to assume you are now Queen? What can I call you?”

She was a bit surprised by his question, but also understood that he was coming from another culture. He sought a common ground, she would find how to grant it. “Changelings don’t normally have much use for names, only very select few have them, such as a Queen” It came back to the point that she did not like of his questions. “I am no Queen” She was aware that a number of her broodkin have certainly taken to her as a new leader, with their structures of a hierarchy in shambles, she was the nearest thing. Still she fought such a role, and would not spread rumors. “I will not replace a wicked ruler, and continue that linage”

He could understand the bitterness of her situation, and reluctance that came with taking over a role and title that so long was held by one so vile. “If sharing a title with her is what holds you back, might you try another? They seem very taken by you, they have chosen you, and helped in breaking the Queen’s hold on your people. It would seem they need some-” He stopped saying the usual term among ponies, replacing it with “-creature to guide them in these hard times. There are many titles that would give the same respect, but not history. Dutches, princess, baroness, mistress, even Empress could be a better fit?” She did not find any to her liking, not until the last one.

“If I must take this role, and it must be given a name, Empress does have a lovely sound to it” She lingered on it, truly not finding it as unsavory as “Queen”. “It flows and moves much gentler than Queen, so I guess that is where we are at in titles. As for me… Morphosia is suitable”

Shining gave her an affirming smile. “Empress Morphosia does have a nice ring to it”

Though she admitted to it, the placement was now upon her. She was not seeking this, only to free her people, yet they did need something to guide them. Her duties now became more than she set out to do, but her mission remained. “I will take my place as leader of the Changelings, but I will not follow in Queen Chrysalis’ pattern. She broke a number of our traditions and laws to keep her power over us. Under the guidance of an Empress, Changelings will return to being a kinder people”

Shining was about to speak again, only to be stopped short when a guard came charging toward him. They were frantic, and failed to follow protocol. “Sir, we have a problem!” He panted, as Shining regarded him.

After a moment, the prince took a deep breath, and snorted in complete annoyance. “I find myself lacking in surprise…” He turned to Morphosia, and apologized. “I must depart now. I hope to speak more soon”

“Go, protect your Empire” She smiled, in a humored way. “I’ll be here”

Shining led to the scene of the situation, and was quickly stricken sick by the sight of the body. Had he not been so hardened by the battles he fought with Sombra, he might have lost control of himself; as it clearly had been the case with some of the guards who had also joined the scene. “What in the name of Cosmatia happened here?”

“Whatever it was, it was not isolated” Another of the guards replied, and soon the group was at the home of the victim, where four more poor souls had joined the first. “It looks to be a serial killer”

Even Shining’s hardened constitution found this sight too much to linger on. He looked from the sight of three foals mangled and drained like their father, and the mother so close by looking like she had spent her final moments attempting to protect them. “W-what…” He struggled, doing his best to push the image out of his mind, and steel himself. “What in the fuck could have done this?” Shining could only hold so much back. He wished to scream out, but that was at least repressed.

“Changelings sir!” Another on in the house called, a guard who seemed to be very personal with the victims. “The freak took out Fine Point, then used his form to slaughter his family”

Regarding the possibility, Shining was quick to dismiss it. “No, what I’ve seen of them, this does not seem their method”

“What else could do this?!” The soldier forgot himself, and was challenging the wrong pony.

“Stand down!” Shining demanded. “This is a great tragedy, but do not forget that you are speaking to your superior!” The prince managed to keep his calm, but the fury in his body was felt by all there, and they shrank back. “I have been the victim of Changelings, and observed their ways with a personal interest, and I’ve never seen them do something this… absolute. I do not rule them out, but this seems to be something altogether different. I fear it is something we are not familiar with, and we cannot swing wild accusations and risk overlooking the true horror. No pony will make a move on the Changelings, is this clear?” He looked around for the collective acceptance of his guards, and the outspoken one resisted. Under a strong gaze, they finally submitted.

Heading back outside, having too much upon him to be in the sight of those poor ponies within, Shining took a moment to breath before he truly threw up. “I fear what is loose in the Empire is far worse than a Changeling” One of the guards near him, had heard and questioned what it was he was referring too. Growing tired of the inquiries on his words, Shining returned with a harsher tone. “Changelings feed on love, but I have never heard of them drain blood or even Magick. Even Tirek would leave his victims alive. As hard as it is to think like this, I can’t see the logic here. Why not dispose of Fine Point, and assume his body? Four ponies it could have… fed… upon for a long time, vs just a quick” He sighed, not liking his words, but had no other to use. “Meal”

“Maybe we are thinking in the wrong direction, sir” The guard offered, getting at least a kinder prince’s ear. “I remember hearing about those bat ponies Princess Luna had brought back, though I only knew them to eat fruits, maybe some were vampires?”

“A fair, and at least more diverse thought, but we would have seen a bat pony. The ones who survived the slaughter by the Shadow Cult, returned to Hollow Shade, and none live in the Empire. This was a recent addition, or else why wait until after things calmed? During the war, it could have made off with a lot more victims, and likely gone unnoticed. These ponies are freshly attacked… something else is at work, and I need to seek aid”

Prince Shining Armor made his way back to the Changeling camp, and trotted until he was met by the one he sought. The others watched in confusion, not sure why the Prince of the Empire was so boldly coming into their ranks, but they were quick to accept him. When Morphosia was with him, even more gathered in puzzlement.

“Empress Morphosia…” He began, with a heavy mind. “I have need of your experience”

Still not too keen on her title, the new leader first said “Please, Morphosia is fine enough. This one is hardly worth the fuss, Prince Shining Armor” She bowed to him, then added. “What can I do for you?”

Smiling weakly, still a bit unsure of why he was so taken with her. He knew it was not a mind trick, she just had a feeling to her that he found familiar and kind. “If I’m to forgo your title, you can pass mine” He could not believe he was making the first, large step, in the relations between their peoples. “What are formalities between friends?” Hearing that brought a new light to her eyes, and she was clearly pleased to have gained that title. Morphosia did not linger upon it, sensing what was clearly a troubled pony. “I hate to make this our first moments in a friendship… but I must ask you to see something horrific, if I am to find the source”

Not willing to reject any request of the prince, she was quick to agree. They left the camp and made it back to the house, where Shining stopped just outside. “I don’t know what sort of things you have seen, what you are use too, but to ponies what lies inside is deeply disturbing and upsetting. I would not be willing to expose you to it, if not for the fact I need answers and I feel you might have leads” Again she nodded, and the two went in. The guards still going over the scene saw the pair, and reacted to the Changeling with much more revolution.

The same pony from earlier, was fast in saying “What is that doing here? Returning to-”

Prince Shining Armor shot him a stern look. “Stand down” He said at length. “Morphosia is a friend, and is here to aid us find the real killer. Keep your predigests in check”

Passing that moment, he took the Empress to the covered bodies, and was hesitant to show her. When he did, she gasped in near the same horror as the rest had. “What did this?” She looked at Shining with eyes that relieved the truth to the prince, telling of how deeply it had struck her to see. “N-not one of… mine?”

“I was hoping you might clear that up” He responded, giving nothing to see where she would go.

“Like she doesn’t know…” The out of line guard muttered, getting further dirty looks from Shining.

Ignoring the tension, Morphosia leaned closer to read any signs that it was her people’s doing. It was at least comforting to see that it was not, for nothing in the execution or motive matched. “I highly doubt it was Changeling” She began. “Even at our most desperate, this does not add up to how we feed on others. These fang marks here do not fit even the most desperate or starving of my kind, when it is emotions we thrive on, not blood”

“So, not even if you were on the brink of death or coming back from it” Shining was hinting to something greater. “What if Chrysalis survived?”

Not caring for the thought, Morphosia did consider it. “She would definitely be in a bad state and might be so desperate to do something like this, but even so, she would seek a single target and take over their life until she could escape or plot something better. Passing so much potential, even to the most foolish Changeling, would be too risky and wasteful” She paused for a moment. “Not to reduce these poor souls to resources, but that is how she might think”

“So, the fact that these are the 2nd through 5th victims, following their father and husband respectively?” Shining informed.

Looking at him in shock at this news, she was at a loss. “Yes, that would definitely suggest this is no Changeling’s doing. They took a single pony, and then went after the family, only to just kill them all? No. No Changeling would waste such a chance”

“This is madness!” The begrudged guard could hold back no longer. “You would trust that thing to tell the truth if one of her little monsters was roaming around?!”

Also beyond his limit, Shining whipped around, and with his magick, grabbed and slammed the soldier against the wall with such force it pressed inward. He was muzzle to muzzle with the guard, a fury liken to what Sombra faced in the prince’s eyes. “I said shut up! You as a soldier, a royal guard, and I am your commanding officer and prince! Repeatedly you challenge me on both levels, and continue to disrespect our guest. I don’t care for your racism, or your opinion. Now be silent, or I will toss your ass out into the wastes beyond the Empire! Have I finally made myself clear?” He locked eyes, and would not allow the other to look away. “She is a hero to this Empire you serve and live in, and had she not helped turn the battle when she did, none of us would be here now. I don’t care if you accept the Changelings, but so long as you wear that armor and live in this place, you will keep your thoughts on them to yourself. ARE WE CLEAR?!”

“Y-yes… sir” He struggled, finding the pressure on him hard to breathe, and the order even more of a struggle.

Letting him go, Shining regarded him a bit longer. “You make me sick” He looked around at the rest. “Any who share his views, also sicken me”

“Please, do not be so hard on them” Morphosia stepped in. “They have only the same bitter history that you did to base us on, and they need time, need example, before they can be expected to trust my kind. A soldier should listen to their leaders, but they should not be brainwashed into thinking only as they do” Shining was surprised at her defense, and also understood it. “My people were under such rule, and we did horrible things for her” She moved toward the coughing guard. “Something has truly hurt you, and I am sorry for that” He just looked at her bitterly. “I don’t know if I or my kind can ever heal the wound, but I hope that we can”

“You speak so kindly, with such understanding, yet I still see some here would ignore this” Shining started. “We have our feelings, and grudges, but when we act in the name of the Empire, we need to act in duty, not feelings” He spoke loud for each to hear. “I still do not fully trust the Changelings myself, because I did indeed have a traumatic experience with them, yet I have taken in a people that sought shelter. It is the Crystal Empire way, to give home to those who need it, especially in these dark times. In doing so, I have seen a side to a former enemy I never believed was there, and am willing to learn forgiveness if they are genuine in their reform” Some of the guards looked to be more open, yet the air was still thick with the doubt. “Chrysalis had me under her spell, and I was hers to control. I nearly pushed away my own sister, and would have never known my beloved was fitted rot under my hooves. I know first hoof just how hard it is to find trust, to begin to heal, but I have taken those steps to do so. Empress Morphosia is not Chrysalis, and I want to believe the rest of her people are not the same villains I fought on my wedding day, or out in the fields''

Looking around the room, it did seem that chances were better at a understanding between the two peoples, but Morphosia was also not going to place absolute faith, when many still showed a bitterness. “Thank you, Prince Shining Armor,” For this moment, she felt best to use titles. “I hope we can validate your faith and trust, as well as prove it well placed”

Leaving the home, and the teams to take care of the poor family, the two royals trotted down the night cloaked streets, as light passed over them as they moved by the lamps. Both had heavy minds, and the prince was first to speak. “I cannot believe how sealed their minds are, especially to defy their rank to speak against you”

“These times have been trying, and you are not a tyrant that demands conformity” Morphosia responded. “I find it a little refreshing to see people able to think for themselves, though I do appreciate the situation of disrespect. You can order them to act a way, but you cannot command their hearts or minds” She sighed, thinking of her own. “There are a few, ones lingering with loyalty to the old ways and… her… that I am doing my best to keep them from lashing out. I have my best keeping an eye on them, but I do not demand their conformity, only that they should try to learn a new, better life”

“I hope it is a better life” Shining looked down. “We don’t know how we are going to feed a people who draws upon emotions, and many workers will be scared to go in there to fix the housing. I don’t want your people to rot away in that camp, but the dangers outside the Empire is great, not even mentioning that there is still the lack of food”

Morphosia was silent, thinking of the situation, and had nothing to ease the worry. “We will make do” was the best she had. “We are survivors, and we adapt”

Shining mused, confusing her for a moment. “I never would have imagined myself here, talking so casually over the operations of our rules with a Changeling”

She smiled softly. “I never would have even dared to pretend to have a pony friend”

“No pretend, you helped save the Empire, continue to try to repair the problems between our two species, and are helping in understanding a new threat” He laughed a bit. “I feel you put a spell on me”

“Never!” She balked at that. “I wouldn’t do such a thing!”

“No, no, I mean” He shook his head. “I mean that I find you to be such good company, and it is weird to me. Even after the battle, my heart was closed to your kind, but the longer we spent together, the more I… I just really enjoy having your around”

She was not sure just what she was feeling, but it was nice. “This is the benefits of friendship, the true care given to another?” She stopped in her place. “I feel so… warm… h-happy…” She looked at him, seeking some answer she doubted he had for her.

“Friendship is magick, one that even the best of us still struggle to understand. I’m glad to give it to you, and I truly hope that we can work everything out. I…” He found himself again having a hard time believing what he was saying, but not stopping himself. “I hope to welcome the Changelings as full, free citizens. It will take time, since we have to be sure none of those loyalist will try anything”

They began to trot again, as they talked. “Even if they did, we can see them” Morphosia remarked. “I wouldn’t allow it, but Changelings usually can see through others forms”

Stopping her, Shining took in this new information. “You can detect other Changelings?”

“Yes, it is how Chrysalis saw through that dragon Changeling’s form”

Searching around in his mind, Shining pieced together a plan. “We must go to my wife. I believe that between her Heart Map, and your ability to suss out Changelings, we can narrow down on whatever is stalking the Empire!”

***

Having long passed out from the over extension of her abilities, Princess Cadence had collapsed into one of the seats in her map room. She had well earned this rest, giving all she could to keep the Crystal Heart and shield at full power. Lord Equinox was still around, keeping close to her sleeping form, seemingly lost in thoughts. The guards also remained in the room, keeping on attendance should the self proclaimed villain make a move, however apart from almost loving strokes of her mane when she made a move of unrest in her sleep, he was only idle.

After a long silence, when he spoke the guards nearly leapt from their hides. “She will soon awake,” He looked over her like a father concerned over their beloved child. “I would suggest one of you go fetch refreshments and nourishment, her dreams have been troubled, and with the events of late, she will be needing to regain herself”

They were quick to think “Who is he to order us?” yet not one spoke it, for he did not actually attempt such, and what he presented was sound. One of the ponies nodded, and was away to retrieve these things for their princess.

Returning to looking over the mare, Equinox softly said “Oh, Mi Amore Cadenza… So much has befallen a filly so fair”

“Why do you coddle her so?” One of the remaining finally built up the courage to ask. “Are you not ‘evil’?”

Looking now to this pony, Lord Equinox was presented with another gap of his time and now and shook his head. “The villains you have come to know, do not reflect all villains, and to a degree, I believe this is true for even some of those now. We do have hearts and concerns, and are not completely without souls. Yes, I can watch my foes suffer, yet she is not mine now, and I do not wish to observe such a lovely creature be troubled” He returned his caring, jade eyes toward the disturbed princess, who’s own eyes were still sealed, but now tighter as she fought bad dreams. “I also have history with this family”

Cadence was soon moving in a way that hinted that she would soon rise, and her eyes soon after flung open. She sat up fast, and looked about the room finding the care of her guards and Lord Equinox. She was not sure what had brought her the most comfort, but she at least knew she was in safety as she sat back again. “I don’t know if Nightmare Rarity can now reach me, but those dreams were certainly worthy of her power” She calmed herself, as she regarded the stallion beside her, then the pangs of hunger caught her. “Could so-” She had started, only to be cut off by a cart and pony pushing it. The mobile table bore just what she was about to request. “Never mind” She sat up again, and looked over the spread of food and drink. “Thank you” She was found dumb by this, but not ungrateful.

“You have a very attentive and intuitive staff” Equinox started, covering his involvement. “It is no small wonder that those who challenge your court found it so difficult” The guards, and the one who had brought the meal, were a bit more taken by the stallion in his kindness toward them.

“Thank you, though truly it is their own nature and the training of Prince Shining Armor that finds the Crystal Empire with such a boon” She put aside this topic, and focused more on him. “How are you faring? You seemed troubled before, understandably, seeing how your… son… died…”

“By his own foolishness” He returned. “Same for those Umbrum who joined in his errant. They all were awarded a fate befitting such treachery, but I still needed some time to process it” He closed his eyes, their glow now seeming to be gone. “I have no place to go, and nowhere to be… I do apologize for lingering”

Bringing her brow together in disbelieve, Cadence replied. “You can stay here as long as you like, for we are not enemies. You do not wish to raise an army, and you do not seek to rule, so why not take a place here? Surely you can find more to fulfill yourself with and be a part of the Empire”

“It does seem I have little options before me, seeing how-” He was stopped when the door opened again, and now Prince Shining Armor trotted in looking for Cadence.

“Dear, I’m sorry it was so long, but there was much to clean up and organize in the wake… there is-” He paused as he watched Cadence stand to greet him, however it was the stallion beside her that was the true reason for cutting short. “Who in the hoof is that?” He grew concerned, seeing similarities he did not like in another.

It was not long before the situation was reversed, as Morphosia came into the room and caught the Princess’ eyes. She soon echoed his words, directed at the Changeling, and was feeling the same unwanted familiarity. “Have you been taken by one of those Changelings you decided to allow in?!” She knew of the situation, but not the details to why he had decided to make the Empire a holding pen to a former enemy. Her imagination was soon galloping wild, and she was defensive at the thoughts.

“Of course not!” Shining snapped. “This is Empress Morphosia, she is a good Changeling… actually, learning about the power Chrysalis had, I’m starting to think there are more good than bad” He explained, then added. “What about him? He looks like an older Sombra!”

Feeling the blow, no matter how close to the truth it was, the Lord was taken aback. “I am not certain how to feel about that” He muttered.

“This is Lord Equinox, and he is a… well… he was an ancient… v-villain, but not a dangerous one!” Cadence shot back, stumbling a bit but ending strong.

The older stallion raised his brow at the last part of his “defense”, and groaned. “I do not know what was a harsher strike upon my ego; to be compared to my failure of a son, or to be addressed as harmless…”

“Son?!” Shining was now ready to fight, taking a stance and alighting his horn. “You’re the father of the monster, and you let him in?!” He spoke to both, and then focused on him again. “How did you get in?”

Not having an answer, Cadence only looked toward the Lord. She did not know, or even think to ask how he came to be in her Map Room. The Empire alone would have been impossible to enter uninvited, but this high into the tower would have been even further beyond impossible.

He could fight this moment no longer, and Lord Equinox laid everything out. “I have existed in the Crystal Empire for, well since before it disappeared, over a thousand years now, and longer still; I was imprisoned after betrayal. When that spoil of my seed decided to war, I wished to observe in some distant hope that he had grown out of my disappointment only to find that he dug deeper into the shame I bore of him” He moved closer to Shining Armor, who was still not letting down his guard. “You,” Equinox laughed humorlessly. “If only you were my son. I would find no difficulty in finding pride, and maybe I would be free of my eternal prison”

“Eternal?” Cadence asked, her puzzlement was soon turned to a painful realization as she found a dreadful possibility to what he meant.

Equinox stopped in place, and looked back only to be struck by the sight of her eyes, so filled with the knowledge of a terrible deed. “Such a look… Your mother wore much the same when she gained this same understanding, in learning of the act of usurping played out by your father. Knowing that he murdered and imprisoned my soul to a crystal deep under the Empire so I may never escape”

Everything soon connected and Cadence felt her world heave, and soon she was stumbling back to her seat. She crashed into the cart, sending it, and its contents to the ground in such a noise. Shining and the guards rushed to her aid, as Equinox stood silently.

Letting the scene pass, the Lord started again. “I did not wish to tell you, least of all like this, but you deserve to know who your mother was. She was the one that was able to turn my heart, and was the only good thing about my wretched son, besides you. It was because of Radiant Hope, I was ready to make peace with Princess Amore, something my Umbrum did not share, and would lead to my fate”

Shining was helping his wife up, and not fully listening to the stallion, but it soon all came to him. “Your son, her mother?.. You can’t mean?..”

Slowly turning from them, Equinox bore a terrible guilt in what he had shared. “Sadly, yes. To know of your mother, is to also know of your father, and how all came to pass. What could have ended all the strife in the Crystal Empire, ultimately plunged it into events even worse than had I remained the villain at the gate…” He clenched his teeth. “That cursed fool… I doubt he even knew you were his”

The two rulers of the Empire, not to forget those gathered, all took this in with great surprise. Cadence had now learned of her long lost parents, and found that one had been so close and now was gone forever. Shining was also hit hard by the news, now knowing that he was the one that killed his wife’s lost father. Wicked or not, he could not believe that the deed was on him.

“I had hoped, in all my efforts, to learn of your connection to Sombra would have lessened the impact of what had to be done. Truly, I was a fool myself to believe that anything to weaken such a blow. I am sorry my granddaughter… I did not wish to hurt you… yet I have now done so, and to your noble husband as well…” The stallion faded away, and by the time Cadence noticed, she could not reach him before he was gone.

“Don’t leave me!” She cried, falling to the ground and remaining as she sobbed. “Equinox… the only family I have, and you too are gone from me?” Shining came to her with a reluctance, as he was weighed by his actions. Still, he attempted to comfort her in his embrace. “Why did he not tell me sooner?”

The room was heavy, and no pony there was sure what to do. Morphosia did not feel right in speaking, but she had a need to try. “Maybe he felt if you knew, you wouldn’t have tried so hard to beat Sombra? Maybe he did it to save you and the Empire?” She offered, getting Shining’s eyes. “Changelings don’t really have the same family structure, but we have experienced enough of it… through… means… to know that ponies do find it hard to go against their own, even if so much is at steak”

Cadence moved to look at the Changeling, and regarded her for a long while, before returning to the floor. Shining was the one to speak, and though he acknowledged her view, he also knew it was not the time and said as much. “Thank you, but I don’t think that is much help at this time” He looked back to his wife, wishing he had something to help.

Understanding her mistake, Morphosia felt poorly for intruding. “I… guess I should just return to the camp then? If you wish my help in finding the vampire, I will be there”

Whipping her head around again, and narrowing her eyes, Cadence questioned this new information. “Vampire?” She then looked to Shining. “What vampire?”

“We can talk about that later, when you are in a be-” He was cut short, when she pushed up, and him from her.

Giving a few sniffles, and forcing herself to regain her composure, she was back to herself. “No, she is right, if not tactful, if I had known of his relationship to me I would have tried to make some attempt to reason with him as his daughter. He was beyond logic, or concern for any but his own greed. I would have put the whole Empire at risk, and it must always come first. I can only hope I can reach Lord Equinox, but for now the Crystal Empire is again blighted by some horror” She did seem much recovered and focused, as she looked between Shining and Morphosia, letting go of any prejudice she also had for the latter. “Now, what Vampire?”

***

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle trotted down the streets of the Empire, passing the homes of the residents, and seeing some of those they had saved from the fields. Most were happy to see them, some felt a little bitter about the sudden war they got thrown into. Although a number of ponies had already lived here, the Empire was now much fuller than before. It felt nice for the pair who believed there was nothing like this left, to be able to enjoy a thriving city; even if it was only for the moment.

They were amazed by what had happened on the battlefield, and though Sweetie had already known about Dust Jacket’s true form, she did not know that he could produce a form like he had. By what was being said, not any of the Changelings had ever known of one taking such a form with all that power. Not without cost, for the hero was in a coma, with Mystic Tome glued to his side.

Thinking on the topic, Bloom asked her friend “What do y’all think of all them Changelings in the Empire?”

Not stopping, Sweetie replied “We’ll have to see. Dust was always nice enough, so I guess all the Changelings have the possibility to be decent. Shining Armor seems to be open to them, even after what he and Cadence had gone through, so we all should be open minded, but cautious”

Shaking her head, the Earth mare was more than a bit surprised by things going on. “Who’da thought it? Changelings not our enemies, some even saving lives?” She laughed a bit at the absurdity of this from a past viewing. “Times sure are strange now, see’n how much things have changed from when we were fillies. Good and bad have near switched places”

“Yeah…” Sweetie was still tender to the thoughts, with all those who were once friends and family now killers and monsters.

Before they could linger long on the moment, a scream called their attention and like a seasoned warrior, Bloom kicked into action to charge toward the sound. Sweetie did not drag behind, and was quick to join the investigation. The terrible noise led the pair to an alley, and within was a body on the ground, and another being attacked, but by what they could not see in the dim light. Sweetie lit up the space, and the two mares gasped at the sight.

A faded blue coat, and a wild, white mane were the first, and about the only noticeable clues to her original identity. The creature’s eyes were bloody red, iris and sclera, with a flowing energy, her mouth painted in the same colour produced from the fallen fallen. From her back protruded bones, formed in a structure like wings, held by the same eerie glow of their eyes, giving the form of feathers. They also wore a necklace, bathed just the same as twisted wings and cruel eyes, in the red hue. It was the Alicorn Amulet, meaning to Sweetie it could be no other than a pony she had not seen since that terrible day in Everfree.

Dropping the pony she was feeding on, the vampire grinned a crimson smile. “Well, Sweetie Belle, it has been some time since Countess Trixie has seen you. How you’ve grown since then”

Backing up a little, the Zebracorn tried to control herself. “Trixie, what happened to you, that could turn you to… this? All knew of Countess Trixie, but she was mythic, as no survivors who had a good look of the creature lived long to share her appearance. Sweetie was no exception, and she was caught off guard by what crept before her.

“Allow the Countess to think on that” She gave a pause, like she was actually giving it thought. “After Trixie took up the Amulet for your benefit, and the noble sacrifice she made, your pitiful sister attempted to capture and make her one of those dreadful demons. Trixie escaped and made a vow to become the Greatest, and most Powerful villain in the world. Trixie would say it was rather successful. Now, Countess Trixie stands as a great terror upon the land, that even other Apex Villains avoid!”

“I knew you had become a villain, and even used the powers of the Amulet to drain magick, but you were never a vampire like this” She avoided looking at the two, shriveled corpses.

Regarding that, Trixie was nonchalant about it. “Oh that. It would seem the longer one wears it, the more one can draw upon its power, but it becomes thirsty for more, and so does the barer. Trixie could have stayed a simple energy vampire, but Trixie also needed more to sustain herself, so Trixie began to drain essence, magick, and blood”

Jumping forward, Apple was not so casual. “Y’all a monster! Look at what yer doing to these poor ponies!”

“Wonderous isn’t it?” The vampire marveled. “With that bug Queen gone, the Changelings imprisoned, and nearly everypony not under the influences of one or kindling for the machine of another has gathered here, Countess Trixie will be able to consume enough essence and magick to become the Grievous and Paramount, Countess Trixie!”

***

Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor had spared a few moments to give a brief summary of what they each had gone through since the last time they were together, and now caught up enough to focus on the more pressing matter of the intruder in their Empire. Cadence had again started up her map, and with the aid of Empress Morphosia, was able to read the Changelings from ponies. The problem she was having, was far from the area where the Changelings were. Two dots, that she knew, were before something she had not experienced quite before. Her brows scrunched together, and she muttered “strange”

Being on better terms, Morphosia was freely able to talk with the Princess. She looked with her at the map, to keep an eye out for any strays, yet none of hers was to be seen outside their area. With the clear worry worn by the Princess, Morphosia asked “Did you find what might be the source of these atrocities?”

“I… I don’t know…” Cadence pointed at the map, and where there were two dots, the map shifted and grew closer to that location. The visual was a little crude, but it was clear who the dots were now. “This is Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom” She said for the benefit of the Changeling, since it was unlikely she knew them. “Then there is this fluctuation before them in the alley, almost like what is there is on the verge of dying or being born. I say that, because these Heart Patterns are like both at once. I’ve seen ponies die and ponies be born on the map, but this is… unusual”

Shining Armor was not as accustomed to the ways of the map, and he was wondering what was happening with the two known mare’s as he leaned closer. “What is that?”

“The map shows heart rates, and theirs are increasing. I can’t be sure the reason, adrenalin, fear, excitement or the like. I can’t say that any of this seems good though”

Morphosia was quicker to the conclusion. “That strange signal must be the cause of my people’s blame, and if it is a true vampire, it gives reason to why it is in a state of life and death. If those two ponies are reacting, it could mean they are in grave danger if not being drained at this moment!” Too lost in the map to have piece this together, the two royals gasped in the obvious. “We must hurry to their aid!” Morphosia looked for the nearest window, and without hesitation, shot through it, changing size to fit.

Cadence shouted after her, but it was too late to do anything to stop the Changeling. Shining was quick to put her mind at ease. “Don’t worry about her, she has my trust, but we must get out there before it’s too late”

Outside, Sweetie was trying to resist the drain upon her, however Trixie’s power was far too strong for her to fight completely. Apple Bloom was doing her part to stop the assault, but no matter her attack, nothing seemed to affect the vampire. The crazed mare, finding a new kind of magick to drain, was laughing in her sadistic pleasure, as her victim was near to collapse.

“Let her go!” Morphosia cried, diving down on top of Trixie, yet the hold remained as if she was not even there. “Stop this! Stop this atrocity and abuse now!” Her words failed, and her physical efforts were not doing any better. “You leave me no other choice…” She was reluctant to think about it, and hesitant to start, but she needed to save the mare. Turning the tables, Morphosia did as she never thought she would, and acted much like the vampire she came to confront. She bit down on the other neck, and it was now the horror took notice. Apple Bloom gasped at the sight, and Trixie let out a shriek in pain and rage. The move broke the hold, and Sweetie started to topple, with Bloom quick to catch her.

The display was horrific, and Cadence, Shining, and a large contingent of guards rushed to the scene only to be stopped by the sight. Still making a sound that turned the gut, Trixie fought her attacker with everything she had, but found as little mercy as she had ever given. She now was facing the same punishment, as everything was being drained from her. Her wings were first to turn, becoming nothing but bones, that scattered on the ground, their red glow no longer there to keep form. Her lustful eyes came next, as they too lost their colour, and soon were sickly white. Even the Alicorn Amulet dulled, and started to rust until it fell from her, as she became a husk. Her bones clear, and pushing against her tightening skin as she took on the appearance of a mummy after centuries of rest.

As Trixie fell to the ground, Morphosia stepped back, weeping at her actions. She had also reacted to the new energy, and was taller, and more like Chrysalis, only still with the more lustrous hue she had since breaking her chains.

“She is the one!” One of the guards called out, seeing Trixie’s state like the victims they had found so far.

Before any could make a move, Shining stopped any advance. “No pony make a move” He defied his own order, and trotted up to the Changeling who trembled and cried, nearly passing out as she stood. “Are you ok?”

She looked at him first in anger, over such a question, then even greater sorrow. “NO!” Morphosia embraced him. “I killed her!.. I wanted to save the mare, but she wouldn’t stop and I couldn’t think of any way to stop her. I’m just as bad as she was, and all your guards and everypony will hear of it and think no better for my people and no pony will trust Changelings!” She became more hysterical and soaked the Prince in her pain, as he did his best to soothe her.

Princess Cadence moved closer, taking place between the two parties so all could hear her. “Empress Morphosia, leader of the Changelings” She began, very stern and serious. “What you have done here was something abhorrent, disturbing, and it saved the life of our champion Sweetie Belle, as well as countless others who could have fallen prey to Countess Trixie had you not acted” She looked more toward her guards now. “The Changelings are cleared of any charges and associations to the acts done in the rule of Queen Chrysalis. They will remain under watch, for their safety as well as our own, for a trust still needs to be formed, but they will not be looked upon as criminals of war, but refugees''

Morphosia could not believe what she heard, and looked up from Shining. “After all this, you would forgive me? I took a life, and acted just as she did, as others believe my people do. I’ve proven our guilt, not defended our innocents”

Turning back toward her, Cadence responded. “There are dark times, and we all have had to act in response to them, in the name of doing it for the greater good” She sighed, taking in all that has transpired in the early stages of the war. “I have come to understand this more, as our hooves become dirty in deeds for the future of all decent life. My grandfather hid much from me, and did it so I could be protected from hesitation, and not allow my own people suffer for it. Sombra was suited to die, and so was Chrysalis, for the very same reason that you were forced to go against your morals and risk the sacrifice of so much. If you were to be condemned for doing wicked deeds for divine reasons, then we all would have to share your cell”

There came a faint laugh, that alerted them, and the raspiness could be felt like sandpaper to the ears. “Good… ponies… made mon-sters… to kill… mon-sters” The laughing went on, as it was known that Trixie was still alive, though as a husk.

“Guards, put inhibitors on her!” They moved in to do as told by their Princess. “Then drag that thing to the prison Sombra had made” Her tone was bitter, and filled with much disgust. “Let us see how she likes being nothing but a chaff with only those black, draining gems to comfort her”

As the guards collected her, she managed to gain enough to speak clearer, though she was still unmoving. She was defiant and crazed as they drug her away. “Countess Trixie will return, and she will drain the essence of every living thing in your Empire!” She laughed madly. “King Sombra was a push over, and Queen Chrysalis a fool, both fell to pride, not your skill! Trixie did not expect a Changeling, you were lucky, but Nightmare Rarity is plotting, and Rainbow Death will have only one place to shop for her machines! Nightmare Demons, or Absentia and the Flock will attack, and Trixie will have her time again!” She continued to ramble as the group disappeared beyond the buildings.

Apple Bloom watched the scene, with Sweetie Belle leaning on her, she asked anyone who might give answer “Absentia, who’s that?”

“She sits as Vice President of the Aerial Nation” Shining Armor explained. “Not many names have survived to be known outside their skies, and hers is only in name, whereas others like Dr. Atmosphere are better known for their deeds''

Looking to Sweetie Belle, who was more or less fine, only weak and tired, Apple Bloom had a feeling about this new name. “Y’all think it could be Scootaloo? Who else could be her second?”

“It’s possible… but how do we find out, and do we want to find out?” Sweetie returned. “If she became evil too, our reunion of the Cutie Mark Crusaders could become a battle of broken friends…”

“One way or another, we’re gonna have to face Rainbow and her posse. We can’t let our feel’n stop us from fighting her, if’n she is her. Look at what ponies here have gone through to keep others alive…”

Sweetie knew her friend was right, though she hated the idea of it. She did not want to keep fighting, least of all a possible lost friend. “We have to try, if we can, to reach her… but I won’t be blinded by old feelings if we have to stop her just the same…” She sighed, hoping more that their friend was long gone, and not this “Absentia”, but she too had the same feeling about them.

“It’s better we move first, to fight them on our terms, see’n how we’re likely gonna be at their rodeo” Apple added.

“Luckily I do know the Cloud Trotter spell, so we can even be on their… terf? What remains is how are we going to get there, and not get detected?”

Bloom was quick to believe in her friend. “Yer mighty good at figuring out that sort of thing, we’ll get it”

“I wish I had your confidence” Sweetie thought, as she just weakly smiled at the comment. “Always me that figures these things out…” She thought, and hoped her state masked her true feelings.

Record 06: Crystal Vampire

End

Author's Note

In the shadows of the Great Battle, in the opening acts of the War, the Empire was faced with another attack.

As one mystery is solved, another arises. How will Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom find their way to the dreaded Rainbow Factory?