Family and Friends

Ryder here and.... Well.... Something happened. Let me start from the beginning. We had been home for a while. I obviously have been having trouble sleeping. First few dreams were tame.... Wasteland, nuke goes off, waking up before dying or finding someone I love bleeding out... Oh goddess above Gilda was one of the first ones I was happy to see just happy enough to cuddle with her, kiss her and just act like a puppy. Oh she made me feel good. Didnt tell her what happened only that something the Princesses did scared the piss outta me... literally. First night out of Canterlot ended up taking a nap in Twilight's castle.... Lucky me I was alone but ended up pissing the bed. Anyways I was just up tonight because I couldnt sleep right. Just... felt something was off.... Didnt know what. I was downstairs just trying to get myself to sleep... had a warm cup of tea in hand slowly sipping from it. It was good tea.... even when I added just a little honey. I finished it up and just put the cup in the sink. Didnt wanna start washing dishes this late because everyone was asleep, didnt wanna wake my foal... Oh you do NOT know how good it was to hear my baby girl cry... Almost made me cry. Anyways I just crept my way up stairs. Heard Scootaloo's door open up and she just ran across the hall to the toilet as quiet as she could... couldnt stop me from hearing her though. Anyways I was just about to sit down in bed until I just felt like I was being watched from outside. I went to the window and just stared out. Nothing over the trees, nothing on the road... but I did see someone lurking in the shadows under the moonlight. I grabbed some clothes, even my shoes and such. Got my pants on and shirt without any hastle, even grabbed a service shirt to stay as warm as I can. Even grabbed a little present Uncle Orange gave to me last I visited just before I sat down on the bed but that wasnt a good idea. Applejack stirred a bit and sat up slightly looking at me as she rubbed her eyes. "Ry... The hell are you doin' up this late?" She asked.

I huffed just looking back at her for a moment as I was getting my socks on. "AJ just go back to sleep..." I said trying not to panic her. "Just gonna go for a bit of a flight here, tire myself out." Applejack didnt fight me. Just went back to sleep while I just opened up the window. Guess I didnt hear Scootaloo go back to bed. Just opened the window, looked around to where the shadowy figure went and flew out, closed the window behind me and then landed on the roof to get a better look at everything. Walked a little patrolling the roof before I spotted them. You bet your ass I flew straight for them. They gave a little scream which I QUICKLY shut down. Hand over mouth them pinned against the tree. Yet I didnt feel clothing or fur. I felt chitin. Changeling. Chitin. "...Dont scream... dont call for help... What I want you to do is tell me one good fucking reason why I shouldnt rip your ass in half right now!"

I released my hand from their mouth but kept it nearby. They whimpered, whining almost. "....P-p-please.... We... We just need help...." She said. Her rough vocal tones was a little softer, her form was thin. "Friends we've had saw you... told us where you were.... You can help us.... Nobody else we can trust!"

"....You need my help?" I saw her nod a bit, a greenish mane glinting in the moonlight. I huffed. "Fine... Just know that if you or anyone else tries to trap me like your fucking leader has I will NOT hesitate! Do I make myself clear?"

"Loud and clear! Just... Dont hurt anyone that doesnt hurt you! Please!" I released her.... Just pulled her in for a hug. She was shaking.

"Alright... anyone hurts me I hurt them... but nobody else.... Promise there...." I looked up at the house, thought about telling Applejack... dont think she'd even like that I would mention a changeling after everything they've done to this family.... Everything from molesting Applebloom to kidnapping me on my fucking wedding day. I've already gained one changelings trust.... and this one could've attacked me or had me ambushed after I came down here. I released her from the hug and just looked to her. "Better?" She nodded. "Alright... Where are your friends? What's going on?" She just beckoned me to follow her. We stuck close to the treeline staying in view of the house and making sure we still saw each other. I'm gonna be honest I could barely see her as we went deeper through the orchard. She grabbed my hand making sure I wasnt gonna get lost.

"Our leader abandoned us.... left us for dead. Chrysalis once powerful and strong lost all faith in her changelings after a drone was taken from her. Each drone she took to replace the one lost was rejected, sometimes killed.... those who didnt want to endure that ran off... Drones who were captured on your wedding day prove that your friends didnt care about bloodlust... one was frightened... horribly by the stallion in the black armor.... He put a weapon to their head... threatening to execute them if they didnt tell him where you were..."

"...he's an asshole.... When I see him next I'll get him where the sun dont shine..." She looked back at me. I could see a little glint in her eyes. "Means I'm gonna kick him square in the... uh... what is it you changelings have that impregnates?"

"I assume you mean ovipositor.... Puts eggs into females so they can be fertilized."

"That's... strange... good to know about the anatomy of a changeling... Also... are you able to see in the dark?"

"Changeling eyes have evolved over the years.... Our eyes have the ability to see in low light settings. Makes good for lurking in the darkness to ambush prey if need be. We always feed off love and whatever is given to us... You have a strong love scent around you... Made you easy to find." I huffed as she looked back to the front of us. Came to the fence and we just just climbed over or through it.

"Yeah... Guess that's why Chrysalis wanted me so bad... Full of love and just wanting it all for herself... But that drone that she lost... I can tell you she's safe. Alive and very trustworthy."

"We know... Told us the way she watched you before she came back to us. Told us the ways you actually cared about her. Made sure she was alright in stressful situations... Even how you gave her all the love she could ever want because of the longing to be with your family again."

"...She was the only one who I could get to listen... My second in command was in charge of things most times. I was either sleeping because I'd been up most days fixing things, in bed sick because some dickhead left out tofu bacon out or I was just unfit to even do anything myself because I was already planning something and it took too late into the night or I was too pissed off to even do anything because someone fucked up. Only thing is I didnt know she was a changeling... Didnt know until it was revealed and if she had planned to do anything to me she could've done it while I was weak and bedridden with either wounds or sickness..."

"And here you are with full strength, willingly following a changeling into the darkness. Not knowing a name but following nonetheless."

"I'm helping you but you know what will happen if its a trap..."

"Sorry... Just... Trying to make conversation here..."

"Try to talk about things that dont sound suspicious. I'd rather help someone that needs it but I will run back home if I need...."

"Okay but... Tell me if you need to sit and rest a bit and I shall do the same." I rolled my eyes a bit.

"Alright... Lets just stop here... gotta do something here..." We both stopped and I took my hand back. Just poked at the device on my arm and had it give me the hud. Nightvision/low light vision. I hit that and everything got brighter. Not daytime bright but bright enough for me to see things in the dark. Even my changeling guide. She was just staring at me quizzically just... questioning what I was doing without even asking. "There.... This thing can help me see in the dark and more. Just having to use this is good enough... Could even put on heat signatures just to make sure nothing we're gonna run into..." I did actually put it on as well. Saw a few things but nothing that was within danger... Surprisingly the changeling didnt come up as a warm body... Cold blooded maybe? I honestly didnt know. Maybe the chitin just hides it. Not something I'd know. We just kept walking for a while until we got into a cave. The cave was marked with torches, lined with totems. Think this was actually the cave with the fucking Timberwolves... Glad we didnt run into anymore.

As we entered I could see changelings just cowering a bit, huddling together to keep warm... Fires just here and there. Some changelings stared, others looked away. I could tell some were almost family if they were well... not changelings. I... Is that racist to say? I'm not sure... One approached us. "...A-Are you here to help us?" They asked. I honestly couldnt tell if they were male or female... voice was very raspy... like they hadnt drank anything... I gave a hesitant nod.

"What am I helping with here? Why are all of you here?"

The changeling who lead me here looked to me. "We are here because we all ran from Chrysalis." She replied. "This has been our home from some time. There is a medicine mare in this forest yet nobody goes near fearing for our lives and the safety of this hive. Some of us have fallen ill and we're doing all we can with what we know. We ask you speak with our new leader. He awaits deeper in with the afflicted."

"These afflicted arent going to infect me are they? I'd rather not be bed ridden and sick away from my family... my foal especially..."

"They shouldnt affect you unless you've eaten what they have... forest fruits are safe yet not everything is edible..."

"Okay... so... seems like poison or something.... This forest is full of dangerous fruits and animals... But... Lead me to your leader... I havent been attacked here yet so... guessing you guys just must really need my help..." We just kept going down the cavern. We passed by more and more changelings huddled together, eating food or sleeping with one another for comfort.

When we got to the largest chamber there was a section of beds near a fire... The beds were made of leaves and straw for comfort and wood for framing. Didnt look that comfortable but to a changeling... maybe... I really need to test this with Rocky. The leader looked a bit strange. Dark green chitin, lime green eyes, even a necklace. He looked at us after standing up from a changeling lying on the ground. "Ichor. Why have you brought this stallion to our domain?" He asked. "He has connections that could wipe us out! He could wipe us out himself!"

The changeling he called Ichor got between him and I. "Thorax please! He comes to aid not hurt. If he intended to hurt someone it would've been I he hurt when I encountered him at his home!" She said. "He easily could've hurt me and I wouldnt have returned! He only asks that we not hurt him since he intends to help! He is the one Chrysalis was after!" He just looked to me.

"I do know who he is... But how are you willing to help us with our issue?"

I huffed. "Your kind... Changelings... They've interfered with my life and the lives of my wife and her friends... even those who had intended to hurt the ones I love... Even taking the innocence of a filly who was only at a wedding to be a flower filly." I said. "Yet one who was sent to spy on me changed her ways and vowed to help me because I helped her. Considering I'm here willingly is a good start... the way your queen wanted my presence caused much distrust. Ichor here cares as much for the hive as I do my family. Do you not trust her word for me? Or my word that I would help regardless of what has been done before?" He just studied me.

"You at least acknowledge the prior events are more associated with the leader who ordered those to be done... Right? We are different from the hive before. We want to live with peace, maybe try to be accepted by society outside..."

"I'm willing to blame her for the atrocities of the past. You still outnumber me, you might be weakened but still you outnumber me and I know no matter how much I fought you could've overwhelmed me, hit me with pheromones and kill me. And me being this deep? Little chance of me getting out now... Especially this late at night where I'm tired and my actions might be delayed because I'm tired...."

"Fatigue hasnt stopped you before. But you are right to blame her and we do indeed out number you. But we do want peace here. No fighting. Not with you and not with others. But you understand why we need your help. We try contacting ponyfolk we get attacked because of the reputation we've had. Understandable. We've gone out under disguise but still we get too close to anyone we just come back here. Too nervous because of that reason. And that's why we need you. You can help us help ourselves." I yawned stretching.

"...I'll help but... At least let me lay down for a while... Havent slept worth of shit last few nights and tonight isnt any fucking better... Also cant asks someone for help because they're asleep... Rather would be coherent to them as well..."

"Fair. We shall spare a sleeping area for you to rest. We shall awaken you when its time to do what we need." He looked to Ichor. "Take him to your resting area, stay with him until daylight breaks."

"...At least wait until like... nine or so in the morning... Do you changelings know how to tell time?"

"We're not savages you know!"

"Apologies... Just... tired here..." I watched as he gestured to Ichor. She just nodded and took my hand just making me follow her.

I can admit I felt a bit embarrassed there. Just that I assumed that... Felt like an idiot but I also felt like I could pass right out. Didnt even know what time it was myself so I'm feeling more like an asshole here. When I got to the resting area it was more of the same yet secluded from the others. She lied me down and just knelt at my side. "I can offer to transform myself into something that might be able to provide you comfort while you rest." She said. "Anyone or anything you have in mind?" I just sighed.

"...If i had my phone I'd tell you who... Just... something that isnt gonna creep me out when I wake up..."

"Would a bear work?" I just watched as she just disappeared in flame and in her place was a large bear. Couldnt even tell it was a changeling unless you saw them change in front of you. I just sighed and shifted so she could get herself into position. I'll admit it was soft and warm... Just got comfortable and I was out.

As I slept I just couldnt help but fall into a dreamscape. Little flashback to the cave where we had to hide out from rain. I just sat there at the mouth of the cave looking out at the nuke cloud and the destroyed area. I heard a sigh behind me. Just looked back to see Princess Luna in a stable suit. "About time you fell asleep..." She said. "What had you up so late? Afraid of your dreams still?"

I sighed. "...If I told you you wouldnt believe me." I replied just looking out again. She sat next to me.

"Ryder I'm here to help you in your need to sleep. I would appreciate it if you were truthful with why you're not sleeping." I just stayed silent. Sighed.

"...Okay... Yeah... Maybe I am still afraid to sleep just to see something that's gonna scare the shit out of me..."

"Ryder you're going to be alright... Stuff like this wont happen... Celestia and I are the only ones who can give word to fire off something like that.... And even then there are safe guards for Equestrians. Bomb shelters everywhere you can think of. Everyone will be given ample opportunity to rush to their local shelters. This doesnt mean it will happen but it shouldnt... Not for a long time." I huffed.

"...Sure hope not..." I stood up. "...Princess..."

"Call me Luna Ryder. You are a Prince now after all. No need for titles." I sighed.

"Apologies... Just... Something I'm still accustomed to Luna.... But... A question...."

"Of course." I leaned on the wall.

"...When it comes to someone... a group if you will.... They've hurt you countless times by order of someone high up.... Yet one of them comes to you because they need help...No weapons, they trust you but you have to trust them.... and I know me being the secret weapon I am they know I could go and destroy them... yet they dont attack.... Still ask for help nonetheless despite me being outnumbered, easily able to gang up and take me over. Do you still help them despite past aggression?"

"I feel like you know better than I a path of peace is sometimes the best way to go. If they ask for help, you help. If they fight, you fight."

"Even if they've done things to you and the ones you've loved before?" She looked to me. Curious but.... Scared all at the same time.

"Ryder... If I'm hearing correctly... This someone you're working with hurt you and your family... correct?" I gave a nod. "They did that and they still ask for help?" Again I nodded. "I swear you are some special kind of stupid... But what I've said before rings true... You'd rather take peace talks rather than the violent route... If I suggest something here, take it to heart but only keep your wits about you. If this group does anything to hurt you, hurt them right back... And I wanna say I know who you're helping..."

"I will but PLEASE do not say anything to anyone about this! I would rather not lose trust with anyone by having guards up their asses thinking I lead them there!"

"Alright... But if this group does anything to harm you and you can fight your way out, tell us where they are and we're gonna show them not to mess with the new Prince. Now you just wake up and just do what you need to."

I gave a nod and she made things fade off waking me up. As I woke up I still found myself lying with the bear changeling... She was actually asleep. I carefully got up and stretched. Back felt stiff as well as the wings but a few good stretches I was alright. Just walked through the cave just making sure I was good. I made my way back deeper into the cavern back to the bigger chamber with Thorax. He was making sure they were all drinking and eating something. He looked up from one of his patients and sighed. "You're awake. Good." He said. "I assume you're ready to go and contact for our help?"

I nodded. "Yes sir. I'll try to be back as soon as possible... Also uh... Think you can spare something to drink at all?" I asked. He nodded and went over to a container. Just pulled out a bottle of water tossing it to me. Like clean bottled water. Like from the grocery store. I cracked it open and drank from the bottle.

"We've been collecting as much fresh drinking water as we could. Some of us have been panhandling as homeless ponies and we've been saving up enough to get something like that. Other changelings have found other methods to get fresh drinking water. Nothing that's fast but that's what we got. Helps as much as it can."

"Got a friend who does stuff like that. She basically takes water from just about anywhere, boils it in a pot or something and then just goes and drinks it. Might not be the best thing to cool down on a hot day but it works."

"Drink up and if you need to do your business please do it outside of the cave... Had to tell some of the hive to do that after they've already done it... like I'm training dogs here..." I huffed.

"Alright. Need to go out, get some fresh air anyways."

He gave a nod and just let me turn around and walk out. I'm not gonna lie... The trust with them was getting stronger... I just walked silently as I could through the cave, the changelings all over just snoozing away. Most of em if not all of them are nocturnal it seems. As I exited the cave I saw the sun coming through the trees. It was cool, there was a little fog. Not much but it was nice. Just wandered out from the cave and flew up into the trees just getting a good look of where I was. Gave some thought as to where Twilight's castle was and tried to remember where the road was leading in to Everfree. I was pretty good with distance. Blame my time in the guard. And me being a mechanic. I could drive my car all over town, say it was twenty miles, have it be there, and even eye a target somewhere... Like say Twilight's castle. From where I was, it was a good seven to eight miles away. Maybe nine. Little rusty okay? But I went and just took note of where I was. Even broke off a branch and sat it on a tree top sticking out, broken piece above the treeline. I flew towards the castle and just landed near the outskirts just walking the rest of the way to Zecora's. Though when I got there she wasnt. Thought that was weird. Just thought she was just out picking herbs and shrooms and such. Anything for potions. I just wandered out through the forest this time. Maybe about twenty minutes out I stopped hearing something... Voices. I hit the invisibility button on my elite device. Flew up into the tree and just waited looking around. That's when I saw Zecora, Shining and Mythic. They even heard me. "Mythic? You got eyes on? Got something crawling all over my back and its not fucking bugs..." Shining said.

My eyes went to Mythic who was just ready to take down someone. "Got nothin! I feel em too. Watch for movement, I'm at your Four." He replied to him. I just waited still as I could be. That's when Shining was looking directly at me.

"GOT SOMETHING! ELEVEN O CLOCK!" He yelled pointing right at me. And mother FUCKER was he fast. I didnt realize he could do freerunning through trees and such! I turned and ran jumping from branch to branch, even having to use my wings to just reach the next few branches. I did that as far as I could until I heard a branch break behind me. I just kept going. Flew up and went to find the branch again where the changeling cave was. Landed right at the cave and ran right in just turning off the cloaking device just hurrying into the main chamber.

Thorax looked to me worried just as I fell to my knee panting. Never have I been so scared to see my friend and father. "You're back? What happened? Did you come face to face with the animals of this place?" He asked.

I shook my head just getting myself to my feet. "N-No... The medicine mare... She wasnt there... but I think someone knows I went missing!" I said.

"They didnt follow you did they?" I shook my head again.

"No... Dont think so.... Ran off as soon as they saw me.... They had the medicine mare with them.... No doubt looking for me.... Goddess above if Applejack called Shining or fucking Twilight...."

"Do not let your friends deter you. We need that medicine mare URGENTLY. Without her, the affected will die. Please. Go back out there and get her! If you need to bring them as well just PLEASE do anything you can to make them not hurt us!" I gave a nod.

"Just... Just let me rest a moment.... ran a while..." He nodded and just gave me another water bottle. Happily drank it slowly before walking towards the front of the cave once more.

I rested for a few minutes before flying up once more. Just flew back over towards the road and walked back towards Zecora's. This time when I got there I saw Mythic and Shining talking about the device. I hid for a moment... Just wondering if I should even tell them... They're gonna question it anyways. I did but you already know what happened. I got my ass beat, arrested and right now? I'm just sitting here in the fucking hut telling this damned story. Shining huffed. "Changelings?! Really Ryder?!" He snapped. "Do you KNOW how much fucking trouble they could be just by you trusting them?!" I huffed shifting in my chair.

"They could've hit me with pheromone, they could've slit my throat while I had SOME sleep and the more fucking time we spend here, the more likely they could die!"

"We need to let them!"

"Shining.... If we let them die its like letting ponies in Steurope dying to a fucking plague. The cure is there but there's someone standing in the way of it. They came to me asking for help and yeah I blindly trusted them but the way they didnt kill me or fucking gas me. I'm ordering you to release me!" He slammed his hand down on the table getting into my face.

"Ryder I do not give a FUCK! If I'm being insubordinate right now. Changelings have fucking taken the innocence of a little filly, they've tried to take you multiple times AND THEY BRAINWASHED ME trying to make me marry their queen!"

"And its not their queen who needs help! They've detached from her! They. Do. Not. Follow. Her!"

Mythic sat Shining down getting up himself. "And how do we know that? This here could be a trap and ye'd be daft to think we'd fall into that!" He said. I just looked to him.

"Alright then. Dont trust me? Fucking smell me then! I'm damn sure both of you know what changeling pheromone smells like and Shining I know DAMN well you do! If I'm under the influence of changeling pheromone FUCKING SMELL ME! GET RIGHT IN THERE AND DO IT PUSSY!" Both Mythic and Shining looked to each other. Mythic just motioned to Shining who gave a defeated sigh. He just got up, and came around the table just getting close. Smelling my neck, breath, pits, and wings.

Shining gave a cough and a sigh. "Other than needing a shower... Hate to say it but he's clean...." He said.

Mythic stood up. "Then unlock him." He said. "Boy's needed for some help. Rather he help than lose trust he's gained. Sometimes the enemy needs help and for damned good reason... he's seeing it there... And if they havent done anything to him everything that has been done might've been tied to her... How else would you explain the few times he's been taken hostage? Your wedding?" Shining unlocked my cuffs and just let me free.

"...Yeah... love lustful.... when it comes to Rocky... She just takes hugs, and cuddles, even just when you gush about something you love.... Maybe the occasional watching when things get freaky but... eh... She doesnt do anything but watch..."

I stood up rubbing my wrist. "Thank FUCK you're starting to see this shit..." I said. "Now is there ANY way I could get something to eat before we go back out there?"

Zecora came out carrying a few bowls of food. Just a stew. "Weave a tail of help and worry. Now why dont you eat this slurry? If you can lead us to where they reside, and maybe we might show them they should not hide."

I took the bowl as Shining handed one to Mythic who just took it and started downing it like it was water. "Considering who they are its understandable why they hide... and I'm assuming why you're the one who they had to ask to get them help..." My friend said. "...If they arent anywhere near Chrysalis then where would she be?"

I sighed after sipping from the bowl myself. Tasted good. "Fuck if I know. She's gone, unknown where to... Might have to question some of them maybe...." I replied. "Just... gotta do it in a way that they dont scare them... Maybe Mythic just stays back from this one..."

Mythic looked to me as he just set the now empty bowl down. "Why do I need to stay back?" He asked. "Gotta be there for ya just in case they try somethin!"

"And that's WHY. Werent you the one who fucking held one at gunpoint on my wedding day?"

"It was to get them to tell us where you were!"

"You scared the absolute shit out of them and scared them to death! Would you wanna be put up execution style with a gun to your head? I can tell you ITS NOT FUN. On either end nonetheless! Would you really think blowing one of their brains all over the floor would leave you feeling good? I can tell you when I was forced to do it I fucking DIDNT feel fucking fine and god damned dandy!"

"When did you-"

"When I was at war Mythic! I had to get a spy I caught stealing information. I brought him out into the fucking middle of everyone. Told them what the fuck he was doing and I blew his brains out right there for all to see. Even made it a statement to never fucking do shit like this. Could I have been court martial-ed? Oh fuck yes I thought that. I was expecting MP's to barge into my quarters in the middle of the fucking night to arrest me and ferry me back to Celestia to face judgement! I was expecting my own men to fucking come in, wring my neck because they thought he was a good guy and I was making up lies! Do not fucking tell me you'd've been fucking fine blowing some changelings brains out to know where the fuck I was! They werent hurting you were they?" He shook his head. "Then why hurt an innocent?" He just thought... looked for the words in the air... tense as it was he just stayed silent and sat back. "Now this is an order Mythic. I want you to go back to base. Maybe you can be useful. Help us find Chrysalis. Do not engage. Just report back. Have I made myself clear?"

"Y-Yes sir..." He replied.

"Good. Now move." He nodded and just got up. He looked to Zecora giving her a nod before walking out. I looked to Zecora as I got up. "Apologies for the harsh words there.... Just had to lay down the harsh truth I had to face to him."

Zecora smiled collecting the bowls. "Dont worry there Ryder my friend, I'm just glad to see you not at your own end." She replied. "Now if you've had your fill I do hope we can meet your new friends still." I gave a nod and got up just patting Shining on the shoulder as we left. We did have to wait for Zecora to get some remedies ready ranging from poison to parasites to even acute radiation sickness.... Yeah... No idea why someone would have that out here... And I could tell Shining was a little uncomfortable with that. I was uncomfortable as well.

I looked to Shining as we walked out together. "Ryder why the hell do you keep scaring the absolute shit out of your family?" He asked. "When I went to Sweet Apple Acres to visit with you and see if you were alright and yet when I get there Big Mac was outside freaking out, Applejack had a gun drawn on me and your sister was freaking out."

I huffed as I stretched my wings. "I'll take the ass kicking from the wife and Big Mac later." I said. "I already know I'm gonna have to talk to Twilight about this and I'm really hoping she's gonna hear me out...."

"If she does or doesnt is up to her but you've got me and Zecora as eye witnesses. I already know from your family to mine you're gonna catch some heat...."

"Hopefully not as much considering I havent been hurt yet.... Now stay here. Gotta get a lay of the land." ...I swear me and my big fucking mouth... I tried flying up, stayed there for a second flapping but fell straight back down into the dirt stomach first. Shining gave a huff as he helped me up and dusted me off.

"...Right... Hit you with a spell so you wouldnt be able to fly again... Forgot about that..."

"Fuck you.... How long until it wears off?"

"Well... I'm gonna say at least a day.... There's a counterspell but I dont know it.... Only ones who do are the Princesses and most guards at stations..." I facepalmed. Fucking hand against forehead, big loud slap. "Look I'm sorry I dont fucking study magic like my sister does! When we get back to the castle I'll talk with her and see if she cant teach me that spell."

"Then get Dash to go and help you test that shit.... Now why dont you go and do something to help me get my bearings and help find my way back to the cave they're in... Your magic strong?"

"Only strong enough to stop you... Lifting? Not the best there...."

"What about if I throw you? I throw you up, you look out to the forest see if you cant see a broken branch sticking out and maybe teleport yourself back down?" He thought for a moment and sighed.

"...I might regret this but we need to do that.... Run up or standing?"

"If you run up do not chicken out!" He just looked around trying to find a good point for us to do that... not much area.

"Standing it is then...." I crouched down and locked my fingers together.

"Step up, crouch down and jump when at the top. Just make sure you either hold yourself or teleport back down when you see it because I dont think a landing would be nice for either of us..." He stepped onto my hands, his hands on my shoulders. He crouched and took a deep breath.

"...I'll see what I can do... If I cant at least try to make it a soft landing for me..."

"I'll try.... On three... Ready... One... Two... THREE!" I stood up fast and just LAUNCHED him. I swear he went right through the trees and FAST! I waited a moment before he just teleported right next to me just falling to his knees. I quickly helped him back up and just brushed him off. "You good? You see where it was?" He just pointed to the trees... Guess vaguely away from where he and Mythic sat when I got here.

"...Remind me... to NEVER.... EVER... Let you throw me unless ABSOLUTELY necessary... Or if we know the water somewhere is deep enough for a high dive like that... but even then I have to want it...."

"Next time you have to use a spell like that on me PLEASE know the fucking counter spell then!" We waited a moment more before Zecora came out and just started wandering where Shining had pointed. We wandered for what felt like forever until we came upon the cave.

We got inside I can tell Shining was surprised to see so many changelings in one place and all not hostile. He didnt say anything but its like he was seeing Rocky all over the place. Actually did wanna go and spend time with her one of these days... Miss her actually. We went to the furthest chamber in just to see Thorax sitting on what I could only say his throne. He just sat there almost looking as if he were in mid prayer. I cleared my throat and he just looked up just to give a sigh as he stood... almost like me after I was done using the toilet... "By the sky and sea you're back! And you've brought the medicine mare!" He said. "I was starting to worry you had been captured and brought back to your home!"

Shining sighed. "He would've if he hadnt told me what was going on... Name's Shining... I'm the one who watches and leads your other drone, Rocky." He said.

"Ah yes... You were among the ones who freed who is now our savior from our queens captivation multiple times. To that we forgive and forget with the animosity we've had towards you and yours for this. And... Do tell the drone... uh... Rocky... Thorax says hi and that we miss her..."

"Will do but... She does still wish to stay with us... Perhaps you can send an Envoy with us back home to meet with my sister to perhaps make a treaty for peace?"

"That we will. I shall go once we treat my friends with whatever ails them.... I just... Do wish to not be harassed by guards or anyone after the moment we leave here."

I huffed. "When we get back to the homestead- which I know will be swarming with guards if this guy called everything in..." I said pointing to Shining. "...I'll say something, order them to stand down. I mean... If need be, you could change into somepony else... Just... gotta do something when we get to the castle though...."

Shining huffed as Zecora just started looking over the bed ridden changelings. "I'll handle things when we get back to the castle." He said. "Lets just make sure everyone gets their medicine there." The healing took a bit... had to drink some potions that had something about getting rid of parasites. Yeah... Guess they drank bad water so they were infected with parasites. They are required to rest for a day or so, eat lightly and hydrate with fresh water.... Yeah safe to say I'm sending Daring their way if she's available to help. That took about an hour or so before we headed out. Thorax actually had to appoint someone to watch over their friends while we just started to trek back to Sweet Apple Acres.

Zecora was the lead here. Couldnt help myself because of that fucking spell Shining hit me with. When we got to the fence to the orchard Thorax, Shining and I just went over while Zecora stayed on the Everfree side. "There we are, home safe and sound. Hopefully Ryder you'll be fine on the ground." She said. "As for your friend there, come and see me anytime for a brew, payment is usually necessary but I could use a hand or two."

Thorax smiled a bit. "I shall send one of the hive if need be." He said. "Perhaps later we can do something to help and thank you for your aid."

"Your hospitality is thanks enough! Now be ready for the road ahead. The guards might be rough!" She looked to Shining and I. "As for you two boys I'm glad nobody was mashed into paste but what happened to your friend who left with haste?"

I sighed. "Told him to rush off to do something with the Princesses. All I can say there unfortunately." I said. "You need anything from me, you know where to find me. Later on Zecora!" She smiled and gave a wave before walking back into the forest.

We just walked into the orchard... I stuck close to Thorax just in case I needed to defend him... Yes I was still willing to use myself as a shield. What ever. Shining looked back. "Okay... So how do you wanna do this?" He asked. "Got guards all over the place and I know they're gonna try something and report it to the Princesses and then guards will REALLY be up our ass..."

I just started thinking. Thorax huffed. "...Is there any way I could hide somewhere so you can tell them to leave? Maybe call the Princesses here?" He asked.

"...Might work but the thing is is that this is a Royal matter... Castle is on lockdown with friends and family in there and if I dont bring Ryder there to show he's safe then they're gonna think something is up."

I snapped my fingers. "Maybe he can hide as a bird in the trees and wait for the guards to leave." I said. "Have them leave a transport for us and when we return to the castle we have Thorax in cuffs maybe as a bit of a 'prisoner' but when we get an audience with Twilight we can have him released and speak... if we can release him that is...."

"Maybe... better than just waltzing up with a changeling in tow... Guards in Equestria are still gonna go batshit over a changeling whether they're peaceful or not... Cadie and I still find changelings here and there but we've kinda warmed up to them so much because of Rocky... really would hate to look like a bigot in front of her... yet we're still trying to keep the Crystal Empire safe from hostile changelings..." I looked back to Thorax.

"Change into a crow. I know they frequent the area... Not many question birds... Just land and hide in the trees or if nobody is on the roof, land there, try to stay away from guards patrolling." Thorax nodded and just erupted in green flames just releasing a crow into the air. He stayed low until he could get up above the trees just leaving Shining and I to walk to the house.

When we started seeing the house I saw guard trucks everywhere, guards patrolling and just milling about. Few spotted us and just rushed us. Next thing you know everyone was all over us. Most praising Shining for finding me, some asking where I was at. Shining just rallied everyone together and let me get inside, shower real quick and change into something more comfortable. Teeshirt, new pants and some sneakers. Even grabbed my phone and just looked out the window as everyone started to drive off down the road, Shining just making sure the transport we had was good. When I came back downstairs I may have had to steal a soda from Big Mac to chug before going back outside to meet with Shining and Thorax. Thorax flew down from the roof and landed right next to us just turning back into himself along the way. He sighed. "...Never have I felt more uncomfortable changing into something I'm not..." He said. "I swear one of those guards knew I was here..."

Shining gave a sigh. "If they did, they'd say something..." He said. "More than likely they just saw a bird just being a bird. Lets just get back to the castle and get this done with... I'm more scared about how my sister and Cadence are gonna react with us bringing a changeling back... And I know I'm gonna have to bring you up to see everyone Ryder otherwise the lockdown doesnt come down...."

"Can I hide as something else? Maybe change into a pony who helped?"

I huffed as we got into the transport. "Nope. Castle is enchanted to reveal changelings in case of some sort of infiltration attempt..." I replied. "...Just... Gotta try with the original plan...." He nodded and just got in.

Shining poked his head in tossing me the cuffs. "When we get close, cuff him." He said. "Just stay calm, be ready for anything. Both of you." We both nodded and he closed us up. I sat back and made the cooler pop up. Thorax was just surprised by it and I just grabbed what sounded good to me. Even gave Thorax a water. Took a bit to get back to the castle. Shining gave us a little time to do something. He finished his water and set the bottle aside just to put his hands behind his back.

"There... These handcuffs are enchanted... or at least they should be enchanted to reveal changelings if placed under arrest like this... Also are unbreakable so trust me on that... Hopefully these arent too tight... Or loose... Rather this be convincing..."

Thorax swallowed. "This is to better the lives of my hive.... Scared? Yes. Worth it? Hopefully..." He said. I could only tap on the shielding between Shining and I. He made the next turn towards the castle. I can admit I was scared as well. There were still guards patrolling, in the air and on the ground. It was weird knowing they were just looking for me but to make sure I was okay... Already remember the last time I was here and they were looking to fucking kill me. We parked and I just looked to Thorax.

"Alright...Stick close to me, stay calm and no matter what anyone says, you're listening to me and Shining... Alright?" He nodded just as Shining hopped out and ran over to the door opening it for us. Thorax stepped out first and I followed quickly hearing gasps from guards looking on. I just grabbed Thorax's arm and just lead him through guards with Shining to the elevator. We were alone in the elevator which was good.

Shining looked over at me. "...Knowing them, they're probably gonna radio the Princesses and we might have a welcoming party..." He said. "Thorax, you're doing great so far. Keep it up and we might have this."

Thorax shuttered. His chitin clicked together a bit. "I.... I wont lie... it feels strange... to be looked on as I am and have everyone know what I am..." He said. "...I cant tell if i should be scared or excited about this..."

"Well we're not out of the woods yet. Stay calm there..."

"But... Arent we already out of the woods?"

I'm not gonna lie I snickered here. "Figure of speech Thorax. Means we're not out of trouble just yet..." I said. "Gonna be a lot we can teach you and the hive if you're going to be a part of society."

"Ah... okay."

We waited a bit in the elevator but... something gave me a bad feeling. I just got in front of Thorax. Waited for the doors to open. When they did we were immediately met by four guards, Twilight and Cadence. Twilight just zeroed in on me looking PISSED. "RYDER WHEELER WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING BRINGING A CHANGELING INTO MY CASTLE!?" She screamed. "Just because you're royalty DOESNT MEAN YOU CAN DO THIS SHIT!"

I just stood there. Didnt get into a fighting stance. Last thing I'd wanna do with guards and two Princesses. Shining stepped forward pushing me back. "Twilight, calm down!" He snapped. "Do you not care that I found Ryder?!"

"Not while he's got that changeling behind him! And do NOT tell me to calm down!" She looked to the guards. "Grab the changeling and throw him out!"

Two guards tried pushing past us but I grabbed em and threw them to the sides. "Disregard Twilight's orders!" I commanded. "I havent called Rogue Princess since I had to deal with Celestia's bullshit and I would rather not have to do it to you Twilight! But that doesnt mean I'll hesitate to get you to listen to us!"

"You wouldnt DARE!"

Shining got in his sisters face. "He did it before and he will do it again and as much as I'd hate to say this I'd back him up with it!" He said. They just stared each other down...

Cadence was staring at me... not mad like Twilight was... but like she was trying to understand what was going on... not knowing if she should run or stay. She looked to her sister in law and husband just giving them a concussive blast of magic to knock them apart. "Enough you two!" She said. She looked to Twilight. "Twilight, we should hear them out. Something tells me this might be a situation like with Rocky..."

Twilight looked to her sister in law. "You're telling me you're buying into this?!" She asked. Cadence merely nodded. She gave a huff looking back to me. "Fine... But if I dont like what I hear, I'm throwing both of you out of the castle, demanding Celestia and Luna strip you of your title and not even give you a chance back in the guard! Am I understood?!"

I gave a calm sigh and nodded. "Yes ma'am." I replied as if I were still General. "Twilight, I know you've had run-ins with Changelings like I have. Hostile, ready to steal love at any chance, even kidnapping and hypnosis through pheromones. Yes I went missing during the night, but that was of my own accord. I left because a changeling, one... Ichor I think... Came to the orchard to find me to ask for help they couldnt get themselves. I went to them in the middle of the night, found where they live which will stay a secret unless you agree that no harm will become of them. They had all chance to harm me. Pheromones when I confronted them, slitting my throat when I was asleep in their domain, even poisoning water that they willingly gave me to show there was no ill will with them and I and yet all things in the past that have happened to me was due to their former leader Chrysalis who has gone off the deepend, making the hive flee from her! It is my nature to help those who cant help themselves and here you are, princess of friendship, denying a potential ally the very rights you'd give anyone else in his position? If that were me in cuffs, would you not hear me out? What about your brother? What about-" She grunted stamping her foot.

"FINE FINE! You win! I'll talk with him! Just leave Shining with me and your uh... friend... and go with Cadence to find your family... they're worried sick about you!" I didnt say anything. Just gave a nod and gave Shining a pat on the shoulder before starting to walk away with his wife.

Once we were far enough from Twilight and everyone else Cadence sighed. "...Really asserting your royalty there arent you?" She asked. "I havent seen Twilight that mad.... Well... In a good bit... And even her brother getting like that... He's usually agreeing with his sister... yet there he was defending you."

"I'm glad you were at least seeing there was some sort of situation like with Rocky... Three against one really does something... Actually glad she didnt call my bluff about calling Rogue Princess."

"Very convincing to both of us. If you hadnt brought up Celestia's issue I'm pretty sure she would've... That just stays between us though."

"Agreed. Now the time I spent with your family trying to help them was a bit strenuous. Applejack refused to eat anything, Scootaloo was doing what she could to keep herself distracted, Big Mac and Applebloom were just trying to make sure they were helping with either Applejack or Scootaloo and your daughter still no care in the world.... Lucky with that though... Doesnt mean as she grows she's gonna notice daddy goes missing..."

"...You know I didnt trust those Changelings when they came to me... took it all on faith... until I was given word they needed help healing their own and that Chrysalis wasnt in the picture I trusted them more.... They let me rest and then I went out to find the help that apparently Shining had leading him... Now I'm hoping Twilight will help changelings find peace and integrate them into our way of life without having to hide..."

"You're doing great so far. Likely Celestia and Luna arent gonna like that decision but considering Rocky as evidence of your trust with changelings might help your case... Same with having to explain the whereabouts of Chrysalis... does make me think what she's even doing if she's not leading the hive..."

"Time will tell..."

We walked all the way to the den. Everyone was in there. Gallus, Spike, Gilda, Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie, Sweetie Belle, Applebloom and Scootaloo. No Applejack though. Surprised Babs wasnt here but that's probably because she's at her now impenetrable home... not even I could break in. Last time was the first and final straw with things there with Uncle Orange. Even had me test it. We walked in and when one noticed me they all did. "RYDER!" They all yelled just rushing me... And yeah... even I wasnt strong enough to withstand five grown mares, three fillies and two colts rushing me just to hug me.... Didnt stop Gilda from fighting them all off to slap me...

Gilda just looked at me. "That's for making EVERYONE freak out!" She yelled as I held my cheek.

I was expecting her to kiss me but Dash pushed her back just making sure nobody else wanted to do that. Scootaloo just jumped into my arms, hugging me actually breaking down. I just shushed her. "...I'm okay sis... I'm alright...." I said just starting to walk back out of the room. "....Where's AJ? She alright?" She just whined and cried over my shoulder. I sighed and just joined Cadence as we just went down the hall.

Cadence sighed fixing Scootaloo's mane. "...Poor filly was scared... Strong up until you came in I guess..." She said. "...I did urge her to take a nap but she didnt want to until she knew you were safe...."

"...Well... if she was good until I came in... I could definitely say I'm proud of her.... Such a strong girl... Definitely grew stronger since.... well... you know..."

"Both of you are strong. Showing emotion doesnt make you weak. Your actions make you weak. And standing your ground with Twilight? That took a lot of strength..."

"Strength comes in different ways. Physical and emotional. Even mental. Mentally you were both strong. Emotional too. Yet only one of you out matches everyone with the physical strength. Now come on, Applejack should be with the little bundle of joy. Hopefully napping...."

"Who? Applejack or Mash?"

"Both if we're lucky..." I gave a nod and just transferred Scootaloo to my back holding her with my wings. That filly just held on tight, head still resting on my shoulder. We walked all the way until we reached mine and AJ's room. Cadence shushed us silently as she poked her head in. She looked back at us and just motioned me in. I slowly walked in just to see Applejack and our baby girl just asleep together in the same bed. Had to have pillows propped up on either side of the little foal. Applejack was just in sweat pants and a tank top, her mane a mess. Cadence used her magic to take the foal from the bed and into her arms. "...Think this one might be ready to wake up for a nice bottle and a change.... I'll handle this... You just get ready for her." Cadence whispered. I nodded just before she walked out with the foal. I carefully set Scootaloo down but she didnt wanna leave my side.

I went over to the other side of the bed and just gave Applejack a nudge. She didnt budge for a bit... Nudged her again and she swatted at me groaning. That's when I motioned for Scootaloo to look away. She nodded and just turned to the wall, shutting her eyes tight. That was when I just grabbed Applejack's ass giving her a little tease through her sweat pants. That got her up faster than anything. And she HATES it when I wake her up like that. Yet she knows I'm the only one that will do it. She jumped, gasping and looking around panicked. When she saw me she got up out of the bed. I just had my arms wide open... Should've kept em ready for what she did next. If this were a hoofball match... she'd be getting it between the fucking goal posts... Yep... Right where the sun dont shine for me... I just fell to my knees just groaning in pain trying not to completely lose it. She just got into my face. "...I swear if I werent so glad to see you I'd ask Twilight to have your ass thrown right back out!" She said. "That hit right there? That dont BEGIN to tell you how fuckin' worried I was! WHERE THE HELL DID YOU EVEN GO AND WHY THE FUCK DIDNT YOU SAY NOTHIN?!" ...I wish I could've answered here. Pain was intense. She just stooped down to my level. "I thought I would've seen you back in that bed by mornin' but NOOOOOOOO! You had to fucking go and get yourself lost or kidnapped or something!"

Scootaloo rushed over and pushed AJ away from me. "STOP IT! JUST STOP IT!" She screamed. "He's back and yet you're HURTING HIM! WHY?! He scared us but do you see me hurting him? DO YOU SEE ME HITTING HIM BECAUSE HE DISAPPEARED?! GILDA ALREADY SLAPPED HIM AND YOU'RE HITTING HIM MORE?! JUST STOOOOOOOP!" Scootaloo broke down more just dropping to her knees at my side hugging me. Applejack looked at me and the angered expression just faded as she just realized what she did. She just backed away and ran out leaving Scootaloo and I alone... I dont know what hurt more. The fact that Scootaloo is crying after yelling at Applejack after she hit me, the way Applejack hit me or just the look on Applejack's face after realizing what she did...

I sat there for what felt like forever with Scootaloo crying... Not long later Shining came in with a team of medics and a stretcher. Shining grabbed Scootaloo and sat her on the bed while the medics got me on the stretcher and took me out of the room. They wheeled me all the way down to the infirmary where they just stripped me down and just left me in a robe and my boxers... Ice right on the crotch. Not directly but cooling. Felt a bit better. "...Now I really know I should just tell my family where the fuck I'm going..." I said to myself, wheezing a bit. "....Either that or just leave a note..."

I waited there for a while just taking the ice off my pained crotch. After that while I had Cadence come in with Applejack in tow... She just looked as if she just regretted life. Cadence just nudged her slightly. "Go on. Say it." She said.

Applejack sighed. "...I... I'm sorry I did that sugarcube... I ... I just... got scared... with you goin' out like that i just... i thought somethin' happened to ya..." She said. "...Guess my stressin' just came to a head and.... hope I didnt bust anythin...." Cadence sighed.

"Good... Now you should leave him to rest... Maybe even apologize to Scootaloo for that since she saw the whole thing..." Applejack nodded. She hesitantly approached me but stopped. I just turned away... all it took. She just turned right back around and walked out. Cadence came to my bedside. "...I'll admit it was shocking when I heard Applejack was crying and it was because of your sister... Wasnt even half way down the hall but just decided to get Shining before she came running after her. Normally you would've been right after her but something was weird so... medics were a good call... AJ's not in trouble... Guessing really hurt by the way you're acting now but... its deserved a bit..."

I groaned as I repositioned. "....Probably one reason to let the wife know where I'm going..." I wheezed. "...I dont think she's ever kicked me that hard.... or even hit me in general..."

"Well she was scared... Even mad that you didnt say anything... I see why you didnt but... I couldnt be more proud... Celestia and Luna are on their way. You just rest. Doctors will help you with anything that you need. I'll even have Shining and Big Mac check on you. And by the by... Big Mac might give you a talking to... it was going to be yelling until he knew what happened...." I felt my stomach churn a bit.

"Uh... Maybe... Maybe just wait until later for that? And get a bucket...? Please?" She gave a nod and just teleported away for a moment before coming back with a doctor... Well safe to say I needed something to REALLY take the pain away. Sore for the whole night. Barely ate anything that night but I ate something just to try to keep it down. I have to admit I was expecting Celestia to put the castle on lockdown but... nope... I got lucky this time a changeling was involved... Thorax met with Celestia and Luna, they actually liked him. Had to call Rocky with Shining's phone but when she saw another changeling she was kinda scared but more surprised to know he was peaceful and even wanted to try to visit us in Equestria. Baby steps though... Scootaloo actually came to check on me, make sure I was alright. Told her I was proud of her for standing up and defending me... Hell even Applejack had to apologize to her... Even she met Thorax and thought he was nice. Anyways... Need some rest...