" Hey hero boy! Wakey wakey! Time to get a move on ". The blonde bombshell spoke playfully to the sleeping form of her fellow blonde. When she got no answer from him and evil grin appeared on her face as an idea for good prank did the same in her mind.

She prepared her lungs to scream and scare him good but she didn't count on a white haired interloper. " Don't even dare Yang Xialong, if you as much as peep near him I'll frost the water next time you take a bath.

The named blonde let the air loose after been threatened by the other girl. " Puuuufffl, spoilsport, it was just a light joke, is not like it was going to give him a heart attack or anything ".

" Knowing you I doubt it, what are you doing here anyway? Weren't you suppose to be in guard right now? ".

" Nope! Ren's turn started about 5 minutes ago and I was bored ". Answered the taller girl annoyed.

" And your idea of getting a laugh is to shock your friend with a childish prank? Seriously Yang, sometimes I think Ruby is more mature that you! ".

" Ok I'm sorry, ok? Geesh! Why are you so defensive of lover boy here anyway? ".

" I'm just been polite and considered, nothing more, he's been using a lot of aura everytime one of us get badly hurt apart from his combat assistance, not to mention that he's the only one of us who keeps training, you could us some of that so you don't get bored as you said ".

The blonde girl looked her with a curious face. " Wow! I can't believe it! ".

" Why is so hard to believe, he's trying to improve himself, we should follow his example ". Said the shorter girl.

" I can't believe you're crushing so hard on him! Oh Weissy! That ice around your heart as finally melted! ".

" Wha-what? What are you talking about you dolt, there's no way that I... and him... please, don't speak nonsense! ". Weiss turned around in a desperate move to cover her blushing face but Yang smelling blood like a shark took the opportunity to keep attacking.

" Ho ho ho, what's this? Is our little Weiss here showing up feelings for her dork in shiny armor? Hm? ".

" Not feeling! I just... uh, I'm just concerned about our battle efficiency as well as our resources, and him is a valuable asset at our disposal, or do you know another guy with a healing semblance like his? Just watching for the overall good of the group and our mission in general Yang, not need to be so obnoxious about it ".

Yang smiled showing that she didn't believe a single word from the Schnee but before she could continue with her diversion a loud roar echoed through the walls of the hallway inside the ancient tunnel ruins where the group was currently taken shelter from their enemies.

" That, that sounded like Grimm!? ". Said Yang trying to decipher what kind of Grimm was that.

" I thought you said that Ren was taking watch?! ". Asked Weiss.

" He was! He should be, oh God I hope he's ok or Nora is gonna flip! ".

" Let's go and assist the rest Yang ".

" What about sleeping beauty here, should we leaving him alone? ".

Weiss turned to the blonde boy sleeping in what laughably could be called a bed, all vulnerable and unaware of the danger. " Stay back Yang ". Using her rapier to and semblance Weiss summoned a wall of ice between the blonde boy and the rest of the tunnel. " That should do it, now let's go ".

" Right behind ya Weisscream! ". The two women left in a hurry, soon joining the rest of their friends in a fierce battle to push the monsters away, even through the thick ice wall the sound of growls, yells, gunshots, explosions and roads could be heard and that stirred the sleeping huntsman, it would be the pained scream of the white huntress that finally fully woke up the knight...

Blue eyes snapped open and the young stallion rose to his hooves only to smash his head against the top of the wooden roof. " Ouch! What the?! ". The stallion looked for the danger but found none, outside of the small hole on a fallen tree that the cream furred stallion was using as shelter a electric storm raged.

Lighting fell from the sky and stroke the ground at the distance, the intense light of the flash forced the stallion to look away, then came the roar in the form of thunder, loud and powerful for a few seconds before been drown by the sound of the rain.

" The dreams again... Weiss, Yang, Ren, Ruby, Nora, they are my friends but... they look different from how I look ". The knight took a look at his hooves, full of muscle and fur.
" Maybe I'm the different one ". The knight told himself. He could remember their names from the very first dream he had but so far his own elude him, so nameless he continued to be.

It was two days since he left little Pebbles house and continued in his journey with no direction, searching, wondering, hunting. The last reason the most important, in the air he could feel when the black masses of hatred nearby, attracted by fear or conflict, then he would pursue and turn the black predators into pray, he didn't know why he did it though, was that his duty? Or perhaps for revenge? He couldn't tell. In his dreams the creatures know as Grimm were everywhere but he had his friend also attacked them when possible, enemies then, fair and simple.

The sound of rain and wind started to drive the armored pony into slumber, almost shot were his eyelids when he felt the familiar sensation of vile in the air, rage and fear loomed near. Then he heard it.

A road so mighty it could almost rival the thunder from not long ago. Without thinking the stallion came out of his refuge and sprinted forward, ears and nose searching for the signals of battle. His trusty weapon ready at his back, almost begging to be deployed and taste the black ooze from the monsters.

The knight too wanted combat, but not for satisfying a thirst of blood but because seen with his own eyes the remains of the Grimm disappear was his only assurance that the innocent wouldn't die. " Faster, faster! ". The knight yelled but his legs remained him that he lacked energy from hunger and sleep deprivation.

His eyes caught something, at the distance orange could be distinguish among the black of the night, as he got closer he recognized it as fire, a village was burning in the middle of the Storm, screams of panic and pain could be heard now.

" Crocea Mors! Ready! ". As the name of the weapon was called, a mechanical sound came from within, the sheath shifted and the pommel of the sword was released near the muzzle of the stallion for easy reach. Closer now, Knight saw the village formed by a few wooden buildings, 10 maximum with most of them already in fire or collapsing already, a few ponies ran from side to side been chased by black figures, more lay immobile in the wet ground, pools of red coming from then.

His heart ached, he was late, even if he managed to save a few of them the dead toll was still there. He would avenge them. He counted 5 black figures known as Beowolves, one in particular had trapped an old pony near a corner. Knight took the sword with his teeth and stab it in the ground to free his mouth for another command.

" Launch! ". From his back, the sheath Shifted again making itself bigger by unfolding half of his full size, then like a cannonball, the sheath flew at high speed slamming the back of the beowolf. " Protect! ". At the second command, the sheath transformed its full size turning into a kite shield, the shield floated and positioned itself between the killer beats and its would be pray.

Taking the sword back he did a circular move and let go of the sword at the moment when it was directed at another creature, this one heard the whistling projectile coming and turned in time to receive the tip of the sword in its chest, far more, the force of the throw impaled the beowolf in the wall behind it leaving the pony it was about to attack free for scaping.

Chosing his third target, Knight ran toward it, the black wolf didn't saw him coming so it wasn't prepared when Knight headbutt it behind the knee making it fall. " Run! ". Knight told to the mare he just saved. " Go! I'll hold it up! ". It took another yell for the mare to snap out of her shock and run for safety. Turning back at his downed pray Knight lifted his body on his back hooves and came down with his front ones over the knee join of the beowolf crushing the bone and crippling the beast for good.

" Come to me! ". This command caused the sword to reunite with its owner, the sword dislodged itself from the wall and the beowolf, leaving it to die from blood lost. Knight caught the sword with his mouth and sunk it in the belly of the beowolf then disemboweling the black being he dashed forward to meet the forth beast, he was half way through but by now the Grimm were well aware of the threat killing its brethren.

Meanwhile, the shield part of his weapon continued frustrating the first beowolf by refusing it access to it victim, the metal plate moved in the air blocking claws and Jaws from causing further harm. Desperate for touching the frightened pony behind the metal obstruction the beowolf took the shield with both paws grabbing and subduing it, but the knight had another command just for such a thing. " Bash! ". Without a warning, the shield bludgeoned the black canine in the muzzle effectively staggering it, a second bash broke it's nose completely but after 5 more impacts the creature didn't even have a face.

Knight was taking down his own opponent, a couple of dodges and dashes and it was done to one arm and one leg, yet the merciless creature crawled its way to him in a last intent at revenge. Knight responded with the same mercy as he jumped over its back stabbing it to the ground with a down thrust.

The last beowolf rushed from behind the blonde pony, confident that it could catch him off guard but Knight was ready. " Buzzsaw! ". From it last position, the shield started spinning with incredible speed then it launched itself across the air, the last beowolf jumped toward the young pony crossing paths with the shield and taking it fully on the side, while it didn't penetrated completely it did broke skin, ribs, and internal organs turning the chest area of the beowolf into mush.

Dead in mid air Knight moved away and the body fell next to the other one, all around the bodies were turning into smoke and dissipating along with the fire which the heavy rain had put away too.

Checking the area around quickly, he couldn't detect anymore enemies nearby, the feeling that attracted him first was gone, only the smell of blood, burning wood and fear was left in the air.

As the adrenaline left his body a sensation of fatigue and dizziness flooded him, still he moved around looking for survivors, but first he recalled his companion. " Crocea Mors, Return! ". At once the shield folded back and placed itself in the back of the blonde pony followed by the sword, not a second late, the mysterious weapon was safely stored, waiting for the moment it would see battle once more. " Is Anyone still here? Is it safe now! The... the creatures are no more! You can come out! ". Knight waited for an answer, letting his body rest for a moment. Soon the rain stopped and its noise was gone with it but still no answer would come.

He didn't think that the entire Village was slaughtered, he saw several ponies still running wildly plus the ones he and his weapon saved, maybe they were been weary of him. " Come out! I won't hurt anyone, I mean anypony, I came to help! Please come! Don't be afra-afraid ". Knight almost chocked when his hunger grew again. Even though for him his equipment was weightless he was still beyond his limit and now even Standing up was difficult.

His vision blurred and he had to shake it to cleared it, the movement end up making him dizzy, something that he wasn't so resistant against. His vision blurred again and using his hooves he rubbed his eyes to clear them, when the minor task was done he was surprised to find himself surrounded by the remaining villagers, they formed a semicircle around him, he could distinguish a few things about them, first, there weren't many left, second, they looked either too young or too old, the oldest one was probably many decades older that him, he wasn't sure yet, the darkness and his poor state made it difficult.

" You... You killed those things? Ho-how? Even our magic was useless! ". Asked the oldest pony, ragged and blooded but more surprised that nothing.

" I, I was trained to... to kill the Grimm, I... I'm sorry I couldn't get here faster, it was hard to heard from afar and with the rain so loud ".

" I... We... we don't even know what to do now, our homes are destroyed, our community is in tatters, our loved ones... my... my wife, we just married, and now there's nothing left of her! Why? What where those things? ". The pony grew frenetic with each second, paying little attention as Knight sunk deeper in his weak condition.

" Hey! Is he ok? He's falling sleep? ".

" What? What if more of those things come? ".

" Don't even joke about it, let's go the town's hall, that's the tallest place, we can hide there! ".

" That's a dumb idea, we have to get away from here as soon as possible and alert Canterlot about those things! ".

" In the middle of the night? We haven't even buried the remains of the others! ".

" Then stay here you idiots! I'll get away to safety while you coward in this Celestia forsaken ruin of a town! We shouldn't have left the main land! ". Argument broke out between the adult ponies, all the while ignoring the stallion who just saved their flanks.

All but two, two small unicorn siblings who with worrying eyes saw the adults lose the coherence of the group, using the limited magic they had in their little horns they levitated the now sleeping earth pony with the strange weapon to the only place they consider safe enough to hide.

CANTERLOT, ROYAL CASTLE...

" Is good to see you awake dear sister, it had become pretty unusual to see you around this hours ".

" My apologies Tia, I have been... busy. There's some worrying news that bring me here today ". Princess Luna said while approaching her sister's throne. As always she was surrounded by members of her government body and noble ponies trying to get a second if her time and as Rainbow Dash would put it, 'Suck her up' to get in her good side.

Hearing her sister, Celestia did a face of discomfort that Luna took wrong. " If you're busy I should probably come back later ".

" No Luna, I'm... Is not you my little sister, is just that I'm receiving some bad news on my end as well, pretty bad I would say, so far I have received 5 calls for help from small towns and villages outside the our territory, those calls have been appearing one after another and each described horrible information. ".

" I didn't know of this, why are you telling me just now? ".

" First I thought that maybe the information was overplayed and we nor the Elements of Harmony needed to be involved so I called the 11th legion of the Royal guard to take care of it since they are the closest force we have, they are currently guarding the last changeling nest founded, however time passed and we kept receiving messages of help from the pioneers on the border which is getting farther from where the 11th is stationed, on top of that, they have observed unusual behavior from the nest and believe that Queen Chrysalis may be in it ".

" So that means that they wouldn't move to help the ponies in those towns? ". Asked Luna indignantly.

" Is not that they don't want to Luna? But in priority, Chrysalis capture is more important than those towns since they aren't under our rule completely. They did dispatch a company however, they where in route to the first town and should be arriving today ".

" That's acceptable but I feel like this operation is still lacking the attention that it deserves ". Luna protested.

" I concur sister, but with the upcoming Peace conference around the corner we can't do anything besides leaving the situation to our subjects ".

Princess Luna growled internally, she had forgotten about the super important and most likely super boring Peace conference, a celebration to signal Equestria first 5 years without a mayor incident, it was going to be celebrated in a few days and Luna knew that she couldn't escape from making an appearance there, she dreaded the event like drinking poison. First, she had to Kept a smile the during the whole event no matter what, another reason for Luna to hate events like this was how ponies always end up ignoring her for more prominent figures like Celestia or Twilight and company.

To be fair she knew it wasn't anypony's fault, since she was more know in a more deep level when compared to Celestia who was the main figurehead of an entire kingdom but it was pretty rare for ponies in the day to come and ask her for advise with their dreams. Ponies were use to come to Celestia for advise and command and now that her apprentice was a princess too Luna became less needed.

As Luna contemplated her options an idea came to her, one that would allow her the chance to investigate the two mysterious dreams that avoided her as well as help the ponies in the frontier and maybe, save her from having to attend the Conference.

" I may have found a way to ease our worries and help those poor souls and also allow me investigate the inconveniences that I have found in the Dreamscape ".

" Oh, you did? Then tell me Luna, it would be must welcome if you can solve this before the grant event ". Celestia said as she dismissed the group of aristocrats ponies and her assistants.

Luna waited until they were completely alone before speaking her mind. " During my last travels to the Dreamscape I have come across two strange dreams spheres that I haven't been able to access, no matter how hard I tried, they won't budge, apart from that, I have seen numerous nightmares where the ponies are under attack from horrible creatures of unknown origen, creatures that destroy and devour ".

Celestia listened. " If this creatures are connected with the troubles occuring in the frontier then it would be more appropriate for a royal member to tend to this rather than let a single company to solve the problem ". Celestia could feel her sister's emotions behind her speech and knew they were honest but she could also see the hidden reason behind her candid enthusiasm. " And that's why I believe I have to go there ".

" I see, very valid points, but, couldn't Twilight and her friends take care of this mission in our stead? After all Twilight is also a Princess now ".

" I-I... well? I don't see why not, but but eh, as her senior I feel is better suited for young Sparkle to tackle the problems closer to home for now, where she could be kept save and under faster assistance ".

" Another valid observation dear Luna, but again, it also would be a wrong in our part to pamper her too much, if we do so she wouldn't have the proper experience to deal with real and more dangerous problems when we aren't around ". Celestia countered.

" Agree, but again, her main strength comes from her ability to connect with her friends in such a deep level, if we send her away she wouldn't be as effective as when she's assisted by them ".

" Hm, noted, sorry dear sister, but it seem s little unfair to think of Princess Twilight as just a successful and strong pony only because she have the talents of her friends at her disposal, her own special gifts are the main reason why they all could work so well together and each part only increased and provided their own touch and angle rather that been just a simple power up ".

Luna couldn't argue with that, to do so was to insult the young Alicorn and it also worked against her as it would mean to refirm what she always felt, the inferiority complex of been the younger sister, the less experienced, the one not good enough.

" I... I understand Celestia, you're right... as always ". Luna said dejected, her own confidence shattering and her resolve been strip away from her hooves. " It will be as you entrust sister, now if you excuse me, I have to-".

" Wait, Luna. Please do wait ". Celestia jumped from her throne and walked in front of her sister embracing her in a hug that stunt the night princess. When she retreated there was a sad smile in her face. " I'm sorry Lulu, it is not my intention to tell you what is good or bad, my role as Princess consorts me to be mindful of every aspect and to respond everything objectively. It is my duty as ruler, but as a sister, I have to let you come to your own conclusions and help you achieve your own goals just as you did before your banishment, we both rule over this land and now we have both Candace and Twilight to share that responsibility but I'd it also a moment when we can better support each other like the sisters we are. You are entitled to your own feelings when it comes to your special talent and I'm not in any position to deny you the right to resolve them in the way you feel its the most optimal. But know that when you feel confused or in a bind I'm here for you Lulu ".

" Ah- does, does this mean that-".

" Yes, you can go, I appreciate the fact that you came to me and informed me rather that go and jump to the adventure without telling me first, it speaks volumes of your maturity as a ruler and your resolve to avoid friction between us after what happened, I thank you for doing that ".

" You have my thanks too sister, for understand me and make me see when I'm acting out of line, I'm grateful ".

" My pleasure Luna, now then, before you fly away to make preparations for your mission then why don't we have breakfast together, it have been a while ".

" Do you still order the double chocolate cake with three milks specially delivered from Manexico? ".

" Better, I have a Manexican chef hired in the Royal kitchen, you're gonna love the enchiladas she make, real food, not like that imitation they sell in Taco Shell ".

" Really? I always thought that it was real manexican food? ".

" Ho ho dear sister, and here I thought you didn't know how to make a joke! ".

" What are we waiting for then? Let us feast Tia! ". The two sisters walked away to enjoy a precious moment together, a moment that would be the last one they have for a while.

RUINS OF THE HORSESHOE VILLAGE...

With a growl and a grunt the knight pony woke up, he immediately knew his previous sleep wasn't a normal one since he didn't saw a dream of the past like the other times.

" Hey Gum, he's waking up! He's waking up! ". Called a filly unicorn to her brother.

" Let me see ". The unicorn brother who was a a few years older came to inspect the sister's claim. He saw the blonde pony grunt and shift as his consciousness returned.
" He is coming back, quickly, Mint bring some water for him ".

" Ok! ". Responded the filly as she left the room to look for the water asked.

" Whe-where... am I? ". Asked the knight.

" Hey mister, don't worry, you're safe in our house, well, my brother's... what's left of it anyway, thanks for saving us ".

" Ugh, my pleasure, argh! ". The pony started coughing hard.

" Take it easy sir, my little sis is coming with- oh, here she is ".

The green furred filly entered with a glass of water levitating in front of her, then her brother took the glass with his own magic and passed it to the stallion who drunk from it with abandon. " Woah! You must have been thirsty mister! ".

" I, I was, still am, and hungry, like, a lot ". Said the stallion as he left the water settle first.

" We still have some food left, we can eat in just a bit, first... first I want to ask you a big favor sir, I know that you just woke up but- ".

" You have to help us find our older brother! If you don't then we'll throw you out! ". Yelled the filly before the young colt could finish.

" Mint! That's not way to ask for a favor! ".

" But but, what if big brother is in danger? What if he was found by one of those things! ".

" I... I know but- ".

" No! If he doesn't agree to help us then we won't give him any food! We need it too! ".

" Mint! What's wrong with you! He just saved the village from those monsters risking his life! ".

" Yeah? And look where he is! The other adults left taking everything! They didn't even thanked him or worried about us! They just ran away, they didn't even left to look for help when the first one showed up and because of that brother went instead and now he's missing! I, I just, I just want to go home! ". The little filly started crying but her brother was embracing her not soon after.

" Shh shh, Is ok Mint, is ok, I'm scared too, but we can't leave without knowing of Buster, we need to know if he's ok sis and the mister is our best shot, that's why we have to send him- ".

" Alright ". Said the young stallion as he was up and strapping his belt and chestplate to his body.

" Bu-but we haven't- ".

" You don't need to say more, if you need help you have mine, destroying those monsters and saving the innocent is my duty, and- ". His stomach growled with enough power to rival a roar from an Ursa.

" Wow! That was so epic! Until your guts ruined it! ". The filly actually laughed at the accidental mishap from the blushing stallion. After grabbing something to eat the group looked around the ruined small community, as the brother, Bubblegum, said before, the twin was now deserted, the ruined homes void of any life.

The three ponies looked around the houses to find food and water for the travel to the place where the older brother, Buster, went to look for aid. " And you said that you hunt those things? With that thing in your back? ".

" It's called Crosea Mors, is an old family heirloom that was passed down from father to father, well that was until it got to me ". Said the knight with a tone of shame on his voice, the sister wanted ask what he meant but her brother shook his head preventing her from doing so.

" So, how do you do it? Did you went to some school to learn how to kill monster? ".

" An Academy actually, it's called Becon... Was called Becon, my friend and I all went there ".

" So there's more of you out there? That's a relief! ".

The pony knight remained quiet for a bit before he spoke again. " Right now I don't know where my friends are, or if they are ok, but I'll keep looking while I hunt the Grimm, if they still out there and hunting I hope to find them again ". And maybe remember my name. thought the stallion.

" Hey hey! Look you two slowpokes! I found some food! Come and look! ". Mint called from inside a ruined storage that survived both the fire and the collapse.

After inspecting the food carefully they discarded the contaminated food and water and kept the good one, later they prepared three sleeping bags and took any other stuff they may require in their journey. " So the town your brother ran to is called Lonesome Saddle, and is a couple of days away? ".

" Yes, Buster left a day after the first monster appeared, that would be day and a half from now, he must be close to the town ". Explained Bubblegum.

" I see, then we have to take the same route and leave a message behind in case he does come back so he knows we're in our way to the town, if he's there then we can meet him and all of you will be safe ".

" Good plan for an adult ". Said the filly.

" Mint watch it! ".

" What? Is the true! Adults only think in themselves and what they want and care nothing for us, isn't that why we run away to be with Buster? ". Said Mint angrily.

" Mint, it wasn't like that, you know Pa and Ma love us, is just that they want for us what they think is better even if is not what we want or like ". The little unicorn turned around and crossed her front legs over her chest in protest.

" Do you, want me to leave you room to talk? ".

" No, thanks but this is just some old thing we're dealing with, what's important is to get away from those monsters and find Buster, the rest will be a cakewalk after that, I'm sure ".

" Ok then, hold on, before we depart, there's some rules I want you to follow so I can keep you safe ".

" Oh! Here we go! Rules, rules, rules! You were holding those nicely until now, weren't you? ".

" Looking! Please, be respectful when somepony is helping us, even Buster told you to thanks those who lend you a hand even if they're stallions or mares! ".

" Tsk! Fine! Let's hear it ". Knight thought for a second, then decided in how to deal with the filly.

He reached down to the filly, looking in her eyes the way he was looked by his former teacher, a blonde woman with green eyes called Glynda Goodwitch. " Miss Mint, as of this moment and until I deliver you safely to your family, I promise to do my best to protect you with my life and the honor of a Hunstman, but, by not following my rules you make my mission incredible difficult, and if I fail in my task of protecting you, what do you think that the result will be? ".

The little filly understood the answer of who would be turn into food immediately and nodded and gulped with a bit of fear, fear that could attract the evil creatures but as long as they kept close, the Knight believed he could protect them so he went with that.

" Ok, first, stay close to me all the time, if you want to leave for a bathroom brake you tell me first but do not leave without telling the others. Second, don't fear, I know it sounds stupid but trust me, is important, finally, you do as I say, if I say you run, you do it, if I say you hide, you do it, if I say you stay- ".

" Yeah yeah, we get it Mister ".

" I'll would prefer if you call me Knight, mister sounds too square for me ". Said the pony as he mounted his saddle bag in his back.

" Knight? As in the armored warrior? That's weird ".

" Mint! Sorry uh Knight, mister, her mind had no filter and everything she thinks it goes directly to her muzzle ". Gum looked at his sister with disapproval but the filly simply hugged.

" That's ok, I know how that is, I have 7 sister and... had, 7 sisters, crazy bunch all of them but I loved them the same ". Knight ruffled the make of the filly earning his own huff and puff from her.

" Ok then, seems like we as ready as we're gonna be and we left the message already so lead the way Gum ".

" Hehe, actually, is Mint who knows the way, I'm not good with directions, sorry ". Knight looked to the green filly who now had a smug grin on her face and in a single motion took her by the fur and put her in his back much to her indignation. Then the young stallion broke into a low speed gallop while been followed by Bubblegum.

CAMP OF THE 11Th LEGION OF THE ROYAL GUARD...

" Sir! Sargeant Maroon bringing news from Canterlot, Sir! ".

" Come in! " Called the old Commander unicorn in charge of the 11th Legion. " Let me see that ". The Commander took the scroll with his magic and read the info, as he did so his face turned sour. " By the Tartarus, just what I need it, Princess night flank is coming to here to mess things up, why in the the name of Herself did Celestia send that overgrown filly here damn it! ".

" Si-Sir? That's like, one of our four ruling Princesses ". Said Sargeant Maroon with fear.

" Not to me boy! Only Princess Celestia and no one else have authority to command any of my troops, ugh, and this is an order from her, whatever! It say here that she's taking care of that stupid mission about those traitors. Tell me is there any news from the hive? Any sign from That stinky queen bug? Anything at all? ".

" None Sir, but the scouts report even more buzz in the hive, it seem that whatever is happening inside is escalating ". Reported the Sargeant.

" Hm, tell the scouts to dig a bit deeper in their perimeter, also have the Pegs in standby for a quick bombing should we move. How are the 3rd and 4th company? ".

" The 3rd is ready and spoiling, the 4th is moving a few clicks to the East to have better altitude advantage in case of a sudden attack, Sir! ".

" Hm, not bad, ok, dispatch messengers to both units with orders for to keep high watch, oh almost forgot, have the 9th reported in yet? ". Asked the Commander with out much interest in the end.

" Not since yesterday at 100 hrs, but communication through the whispering stone is not as reliable as scroll, Sir! ".

" I see, well, keep trying, and prepare an extra tent for the... princess, just in case she wants to stick around, hopefully she won't ".

" Sir! Yes Sir! ". The Sargeant saluted and left to do his superior's orders.

The Commander meanwhile turned to the map of the area they were currently occupying, wondering if he'll get a chance to capture the prized target. " Are you really there Bug queen, and if you aren't, then what's all the commotion going on in there? ".

INSIDE THE CHANGELING HIVE...

" Has anypony found him? ". Asked an angry older Changeling to his younger brethren.

" Not yet! We have look everywhere, except... the Royal chamber! Has anypony checked there? ". Said one of the youngest in the patrol of Changelings.

" You, you don't think...? Oh buck! The queen! The queen is in danger! ". Asked the other with fear.

" Sound the alarm! Everypony available, to the Royal chamber! ". The buzzing of wings and the hard knock of hooves on rock flooded all tunnels as the black bugs rushed to make sure that their mother was safe.

Soon the chamber was reached, normally the honor of opening the trapdoor to the Royal quarters was reserved for only the one who was authorized by the big mother herself but right now that was the last thing in the Changeling who arrived first at the entrance.

" You majesty! Mo-mother! Are you-?! ". The young Changeling was left petrified when his green eyes saw his queen, the matriarch of the entire Changeling kind pinned to the ground by the hooves of the strange Changeling that appeared a few days back, one of his weird claws had hold of Chrysalis by the horn while a stinger connected to the main body by a long tail hovered above the Queen's head.

" Oh! Look Mama! Your little critters she come to rescue you. Hahahahaha! Isn't precious? Isn't Mama? Hahaha! ".

" My queen! ". The Changeling who shout it did even saw the tail until the stinger was deep in his chest, when the weird Changeling pulled the tail back green blood oozed out of the sound, the poison in the stinger wouldn't wasn't even necessary at this point.

" SHE'S NOT A QUEEN! ". Yelled ta the top of his lungs the mutated Changeling, his golden eyes shining with madness and his mouth twisting into a demonic snarl.
" Hahaha, sorry, sorry, just a bit overwhelmed, you see, for me there's only one Queen, a goddess, my queen had the most beautiful white skin, like cold snow, her eyes, red like blood in and fire, and the black veins that run along her skin, is just like rivers of his black elixir, bringing forth more of her lovely children, my lady goddess, the one and only. Not this impostor! ". The mad Changeling pressing his hoof over the chitin of the Chrysalis.

" He-help me you fools! ".

" We-We can't! If we do he may crush you completely! ".

" Oh no no no no I wouldn't, you see, while she would never be my Queen, she can be my Mama, since I never met my real one in that other world, he he! Would you? Eh? Would you like to be my Mama? He he! ". He pressed again.

" Argh!, Can't... move! ". As her chitin started to crack under the pressure.she realized that she had no way around it, since finding this weird Changeling she have tried many ways to harm him, both physical and emotional, magic and spells and good old torture but nothing worked.

And now she was about to be squished like a... like a bug, throwing pride aside for survival wasn't even a joke here, it was the only option. " Yes! Yes! I'll be, I'll be your mother, or Mama, whatever you want me to be, just, let go of me! ".

" Hahaha sure sure Mama, after all, I'm a very respectful child. Just remember, insult my Goddess or try to play trick on me and I'll put more holes in you ". To sustain the point the strange Changeling put the stinger near her eye and moved it slowly up and down.

Finally he jumped off the queen and stretched his carapace making giggles all the the while. The rest of the brood simply observed with fear and confusion at the unusual situation their hive was involved in.

Chrysalis got up slowly trying not to call the attention of his wayward offspring, she wasn't planning to stay with the lunatic Changeling but unfortunately for her, her scouts had detected a huge force of royal guards keeping eye in the entire hive, no doubt Celestia had send one or two of her Legions in hopes of finally sizing her.

An idea came to the green haired queen, while she was apparently weaker that her child, she was older and smarter, or so she considered herself. " Say my child, what was your name? ".

" I don't have one, or don't remember, he he, I don't care either way, when I'm back with my Queen she can give me my name back, but... I suppose I need one right now so...Savage, yes, Savage! I like the sound of that ".

" Very well, Savage, I have been informed that a group of enemies are preparing an attaxk on the hive, it would be better if we do something about it, don't you think? ".

" Oh, is that so? Sounds like fun he he, but I'm not interested, there's something out there, something odd he he, something out of place like me, and I want to find it! ".

" I see, still, in order to go and look for this thing of yours, you still need to clear the way free of Invaders, if you help Mama, she can even help you find what your looking for faster, what do you say, dear Savage? ". Chrysalis used her sweetest tone also applying some of her own magic in her voice.

Savage, as it called himself now, felt something weird coming from his new parent but he couldn't pinpoint what or how exactly was affecting him, her explanation did make sense however and he didn't want to risk been taken pensioner of killed by those Invaders, and it would be good to see what else he could do with this new body of his.

" Ok Mama, you convinced me, let me see what this ' ponies ' want and see if they can agree with my proposition he he ".

" Proposition? What kind of proposition? ".

" Oh, a simple one, do they want to be crushed by my pincers, or prefer a taste of my venom he he, ha ha ha wah ha ha ha!. Everypony took a few steps back as the evil laugh of the mad Changeling resounded through the whole chamber.

IN ROUTE TO LONESOME SADDLE...

The three ponies moved close one to another in order not to lose sight of each other or of the road, this normally wouldn't be necessary under normal circumstances but right now a freaky fog had fall upon them.

" Is that your special talent? ". Asked Mint, still traveling in Knight's back at top of Crocea Mors.

" Pardon? ".

" This thing, your weapon, I saw you using it like with magic but you don't have a horn, so, did you use a spell or was that your special talent? ".

" Well I-I really don't know, I just know that I can use it like that but I don't know why, but I know Crocea Mors is an important part of me and that's how I know how to use it, does it make sense? ".

The two unicorns looked at each other and shrugged. " I don't know where exactly do you come from or why you don't remember how you got here but I kind of get what you mean, we too have something that we're good at it and like, and when we do those things from the bottom of our hearts then those things become or special talent, what you are good at gets reflected in our cutie marks ".

" Gum is right, let me see ". The filly jumped down and saw the two golden arcs that was located in the flank of the cream pony. " Oh! Your cutie mark is the same as the one on your shield! ".

" Mint! One does not look at somepony else cutie mark without their permission first! ".

" But Gum! We all have them in plane sight, how is one supposed to ignore it if we have them in our rear all the time! ".

" Mint, you... Ugh, your questions are harder that the ones in Celestia's magic School ".

Knight smiled watching the interaction between the siblings, he could remember a family of 8 siblings, seven sisters and one poor brother who was tormented by all the girls, and despite all of that, the brother loved them.

It was already a 4 hours since they left Horseshoe Town and so far they haven't done much advance due to the fog, according to Bubblegum It was a normal occurrence around this parts and it could last from hours to days depending on the weather.

Whatever the reason their travel was now under more caution and low in pace, while Knight could feel the waves of the Grimm there were dangerous creatures in this world that could sneak on him if he wasn't careful.

" Hey look! That mark on the tree! That's Buster's! ". The filly pointed to a single dying tree that had yellow paint over its bark. The trio approached it and indeed it was a Mark recognized as Buster's cutie mark, a round Boulder with a fissure running from the top edge down to the middle of rock, the mark looked old and was almost banishing from the bark healing the tree.

" Yes, is Buster's mark, that means we are going the right way! ". Said Gum with enthusiasm.

" Good work, both of you, we'll keep the pace for another hour then we'll take a brake, think you can keep up, Gum? ".

" Yes, at this speed is not as bad ".

" Good, then let's go ". With renew energy, the trio continued in their trek to the next town.

CAMP OF THE 11TH LEGION OF THE ROYAL GUARD...

Commander Hardstone moved with grunts and low rambling as he was informed that Princess Luna finally arrived and was asking for him, the fact that she started barking orders and asking his soldiers for an status update without his acknowledgement of approval pissed him even more, his dislike for her grew in intensity.

When he finally caught sight of her she was with two of his captain, both were listening to her with nervous looks and he had the bad feeling that They were made to talk something they didn't wanted. When his approaching was visible both captains looked relieved to see him.

" Sir! Glad you're here, we just were updating the Princess about the situation but we told her we can't discuss further details without your authorization, Sir! ".

" At ease soldiers, to back to your posts, I'll take care of our guest ".

" Sir! Yes Sir! ". The two captains saluted and left without giving Luna anymore attention.

" I wasn't done speaking to them Commander ".

" I reckon, but they were telling you the truth, further talks about important operations can only be disclosed with high ranking members of the military personnel and unfortunately you don't qualify Miss Princess ".

" How dare-, I'm a Princess of Equestria! How come I don't qualify? ".

" The Royal Guard was made to serve Equestria and its loyal citizens, we are not at the disposal of just anypony in the Royal court, even Princess Celestia has to abide by the rules of its constitution, something you, Miss Princess seems not aware of, one the 1st Legion stationed in Canterlot is completely at the orders of Princess Celestia and even then her personal guard is just about 3 divisions, the rest acts as police and scouts ".

" I didn't know- ". Luna tried to dissuade the argument that was turning against her, due in part to her own lack of knowledge about how her sister reconstituted the Royal Guard and part because the loud tone of the Commander was dragging attention to her in a bad way.

" If you aren't well informed in our way of operations perhaps it would be better if somepony else take care of your mission, Miss Princess ". His harsh tone could hardly cover his animosity for her.

Luna resisted the tentation of lashing at the insolent unicorn, even something like using the Royal voice would be taken as her falling for his indirect insults and she would be look like the bully. Still, Luna couldn't hold everything back so using her superior high she countered with her own arguments.

" A valuable argument Commander, indeed I may not be highly qualified to give orders or to a military unit, but, weren't you who declared state of emergency: Code BBGD of the Twilight Protocol? ".

The stallion frowned at the weird code hearing it for the first time. " What in Celestia's feathers are you talking about? ".

" Oh, I thought that a pony of your rank and knowledge would know about the Code BBGD, my, isn't that a bit negligent in your part Mister Commander? ". Luna said the last words with raw honey on her voice, sweet honey that could make you choke.

One of the Captains walked next to the confused Commander and explained. " Sir! The princess is talking about enacting Code BBGD which stands for Big bad Guy Detected, it was implemented in the Legion's manual protocol by Princess Twilight when she became member of the Royal court ".

" What? And what in Equestria does it say?! ".

" It say that in case a high military member, in this case you, call to a state of emergency by Code BBGD, then if one or more members of the Royal court with military background concur in the place where the Code was enacted then they can share the authority and command of the units located within the zone. It was created to maintain integrity within the units in case one of the commanding officers is unable to give orders or the orders are against Equestrian law ".

" That's stupid! Outrageous! And stupid again! ".

" My! Commander? Are you insulting a Law created by one of the heroes of our nation? The once apprentice of your ruler and close friend? ".

" I... No, I mean... My, apologies, I'm... We're under shoot of stress due to the important of this mission, my apologies once more, to Princess Twilight as well ". Hardstone apologized but in Luna's ears it was more to save face in front of his troops that a real feeling of doing it. Still Luna wasn't going to leave without an extra blow.

" Very well Commander, apologies accepted on my end, I'll make sure to pass the ones for Princess Twilight as soon as I see her, for now I just need to know where is the Division send to help the pioneers and I'll take my leave, I'm sure somepony as capable as you can take care of Chrysalis if she happens to be here ".

" It-it will be done, Princess, Sargeant Maroon! Please assist the Princess in all she need, now then, if you excuse me, I'll be in my Tent ". From far behind another pony shouted an affirmative, Sargeant Marron, Luna assumed.

" You're excused, Mister Commander ". Luna said smiling with her eyes set in his, feeling her gaze, the Commander could only turn around in defeat.

After obtaining a map and a whispering stone to communicate with them she took flight and left, as she flew her face twisted little by little into a sad expression, a single tear running down her cheek, she hoped one day she will be accepted by everypony in the kingdom and maybe loved the same way her sister and Twilight were, but for now she had a mission to fulfil.

CAMP OF THE 9TH DIVISION...

At the camp of the division send by Hardstone to Help the ponies on the frontier, the soldiers were getting ready to set for the night, under the orders of the captain, the ponies hurried to prepare tents while others cook, pegasus set nests in the lower clouds to keep watch for possible attacks and other discussed the moves for the next day, as it was they were just a day away from the town with the mayor population, Lonesome Saddle, it was from there where the call of help came from.

Outside of the range of the tents two stallions paying little attention to their job joked about their mission.

" But seriously, if the Commander really wanted to get rid of us then at least he should had send us somewhere else a bit more entertaining and less.. ".

" rainy? ".

" Yeah! That, and less cold and what with that stupid fog! I'm telling you, this entire place is up to get us! ".

" Pffffsh! Drama queen ".

" I'm seri- hey, did you saw that? ".

" Saw what?I didn't saw- hey! I can see it! I see it! ".

" Red dots, are they fireflies? ".

" Nah, they only live near ponds or lagoons ".

" Pffffsh, Nerd! How do you even know that stuff? ".

" Because it read actual books and not just Plotboy, pervert! ".

" Hey! For your information Plotboy just happens to be very educational magazine that happens to have mares in very suggestive poses and lingerie, not my fault! ".

" Sure thing... Hey, did you heard a noise just now? Like a growl ".

" No, but the fireflies multiplied while we talked, now there's like... Hm, buddy? I don't think those are fireflies anymo- ". The pony in watch and his friend didn't register in time the horde of Grimm that ran into them, soon screams and yells crossed through the entire camp as pony after pony was torn apart and or slashed to dead, pegasus did their best to assist their land friends but a new Grimm, the nevermore joined and now even the sky was unsafe, the camp was destroyed within a couple of hours and after having enough fresh meat the pack of merciless creatures moved to the place form where they felt the most dark emotions, the town where the soldiers were supposed to reach.

END OF CHAPTER.

Author's Note

I'm calling it here and now, copyrights over Manexico and Plotboy. Thanks for reading and I'm sorry for the slow update, it's just gonna get worse as a lot of holidays and extra work is dumped on me, anyway, hope you like the chapter, until next time.