Second Skin

by MorganaTheNotCat

Rating: teen
Tags: Princess Cadance, Shining Armor, Violence, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Death
Length: 10027

The changeling threat is back, and Shining is afraid history is repeating itself.

Shining Armor and Cadance are still traumatized by everything that's occurred back in Canterlot. It's only been a month, and the crystal ponies are now doubting their ability to protect the kingdom. While Shining tries to deal with all this, he notices something feels... Off, about his wife.

Written for the Splash Horror Contest under the Psychological category.

Published 2024-11-30 14:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2024-11-30 14:10:01 UTC

Actors in a story

“You’re not my wife! The darkness has taken hold of you!” The man lifted his knife, aimed at the mare’s chest. “Finally, when I kill you, the darkness will be gone and our world will forever be safer!”

Hm, that truly is clever. I hadn’t seen this coming but it totally makes sense from his point of view. He was forced into this situation, he must act accordingly even if it’s at the cost of his wife.

“No! Please! We’ve been together for years!” The wife recoiled in fear, the blade gleaming just above her. “I beg you! Look into your heart, and tell me what you truly see!”

Appealing to his empathy, classic. Honestly understandable, but I could never see myself in that role fully. How would I be able to trust her if I’m certain she’s been taken by the dark presence? What if it was the dark presence controlling her and her actions and just pretending to be her? What if she was the one that walked with you up the altar? Would she be real even after you’re sure the darkness has been eradicated? Gah, stop thinking absurdities, just watch the damn thing.

“A monster! One who took control of my wife and put her against me! And now, I will finally take you and save my wife!” The blade pierced the mare’s body, and a spewing dark ooze jumped up into the air, followed by a scream of pain. The lights were off, her eyes seemingly glowing as she floated off the ground.

I knew it! She really was being controlled by darkness! She’s evil, I knew it! There’s always a hunch, always this feeling eating away at you at the back of your mind, barking and telling you all you need to know. Like back in Canterlot… There was always something along the headaches and the half awake state, I knew— No, I’m going to focus back.

“Gah! You fool! I will punish you for your actions, the darkness will last forever!” The black gooey corpse of the wife floated back and forth across the stage, frankly, I was starting to lose attention by this point, far too out there for me. Having her fly around like some sort of exorcist type monster?

And so my mind wandered to other things.

On an ordinary day this play would've bored me to death, but after everything that has happened in Canterlot, it reminded me of everything. The story of the evil queen taking the place of the prince’s wife and manipulating him into doing her bidding. We were both actors, but the consequences were real, very real, even a month later with the changeling scare across the kingdom. I won’t ever let her near me or my family ever again, we needed to be vigilant. Be ready to fight. Not out here watching some stupid play

At some point, I looked back and saw a scene that looked like a standoff between the possessed dead wife and the husband? I don’t know, and frankly I didn’t care to know anymore.

“Shining?” Her voice cut off my thoughts, which I actually kind of needed. “Is everything okay?”

“Yeah… I’m alright.” I replied before giving her a quick peck on the cheek.

“I’m going to go get some more drinks for us, okay?” Cadence lifted herself from her seat, her long pink gown adorned by blue gems flowed behind her as she made her way to the door, and just as she was about to leave, I stopped her.

“Want me to come with you?” I always hesitated to leave her alone, but she was stubborn.

“I’m okay, I promise. I can handle myself.” She said that last time too, and where did that take us?

“Fine. Just be quick.” Despite my worries, I let her off on her own then turned to face the stage.

From my seat up high, it was easy to look down on the rows of ponies sat side by side, and even though I should’ve been paying attention to the climax of the story, I found myself instead scanning the rows for threats, like I would usually do at crowds ever since Canterlot.

There's never anything. And if there ever was, I'd never know, they all hide in plain sight. But then I saw it. That slithering tongue inside that wicked smile, and those beady eyes staring back at me. I had to double check to make sure I wasn’t seeing things.

I was. It was just a vaguely darker shadow of a pony.

I’m so tired, I've spent nights awake just thinking and worrying, but Cadance was always there to soothe me. But it’s just been so hard, I can’t understand why someone would do such a thing so wicked. Simple feeding can't possibly explain the things she had done and planned to do, Chrysalis was pure evil incarnate, tricking me, my friends, Equestria, breaking down and infiltrating our defenses only to attack at our most vulnerable.

Some time ago, I had thought about this, and came to the conclusion Chrysalis is nothing more than a sadistic creature hellbent on causing as much destruction and chaos as she can.

And I let those things into my life, I let that foul and despicable MONSTER control me and use me to her will, I let her attack the entirety of Canterlot, I let her take down Princess Celestia, I let her take my sister and her friends hostage, I let her ruin the lives of hundreds of ponies.

But worst of all, she trapped Cadance and tortured her, Cadance reminds me almost weekly of the nightmares, the pain, how the Queen would tease her and mock her, saying how much happier I was with her, even if deep down I knew something wasn't quite right, but I ignored my instincts, everything I went through she suffered ten times worse.

I will not let this happen to me or my family ever again.I’m ready to do whatever it takes to protect Cadance, to protect Twilight, and every other pony in Equestria. Even now as I was scanning the crowd, I saw Chrysalis’ smile. She’s gone, but who knows when she could return? Days? Weeks? Months?

Or maybe she already had.

The empire was already worried about the changelings invading again, they questioned mine and my wife’s authority and our capability to rule. They worried changelings have already invaded our nation, and I shared their concerns. I wouldn’t be surprised, but there was no real way of knowing if they were already here between us, the most we could do was take precautions.

And yet we were at this play because Cadey thought it’d be a good idea to cool off our minds, she has had a lot going on too. There were more things we should have been worrying about!

Gah… I did it again, I needed to just keep calm if I wanted to resolve this situation with her.

Speaking of her, where was she? It’d already been a few g ood minutes…

Something must have happened on the way back, or maybe on the way there. I grew anxious, tapping my hoof, trying to find reasons not to go but only finding more in favor of going. She could have gotten lost, our drinks could have spilled, maybe a fight had already broken out and I just hadn’t noticed, someone could’ve spiked her drink, or worse…

I shouldn’t have let her go alone to begin with— I couldn’t take it, I was going after her!

With one swift motion, I jumped from my seat and made my way to the door, stepping out into the hall where the sounds of the play had become muffled, and as I travelled along the thin, polished wood flooring, my eyes continued to glance around every possible nook and cranny, even leaning over corners before stepping out into them.

Drinks. That was downstairs, fairly close to the entrance as well. I made my way down the halls, but there was still no sign of a struggle, a fight, or anything out of the ordinary. They could have worked swiftly, and quickly, they could’ve gagged her then tied her, maybe they disabled her magic so she couldn’t fight back.

I swung open the double doors that led into the spiral staircase in the main entrance, then quickly hopped down the carpeted steps and headed to the canteen, just opposite of the reception.

“Oh! Hello Prince Shining! What would you like? It’s on the house!”

A teen crystal mare with glasses and a cap greeted me over a black marble counter, the smell of popcorn immediately tempting me into buying a bucket, while behind her were an assortment of prices for the different foods, candies, beverages and snacks.

Maybe everything was fine, maybe I was worrying too much. I thought twice before actually saying anything to her while she stared at me with a raised brow, but decided that it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

“Hey, um…” I glanced down at her nametag. “Minty, did Princess Cadance get our drinks yet? Because she hasn’t come back yet and I was just wondering if everything was okay.”

Minty bit her lower lip, bringing one hoof to her chin as if attempting to remember. Hopefully, she will remember correctly.

“Course! I gave it to her at the start of the play. Would you like more?.” Of course.

“You're telling me she hasn't come here since?”

“Not that I know of…” Minty tilted her head. “Is something wrong? You seem awfully sweaty…”

After her reply, I left her talking to herself and made my way around the theater. Everywhere, every room, I looked through the main audience twice, thrice, nothing. I made my way to the side halls, through to the backstage, the costume rooms, even the stage control panel with the lights and levers, nothing aside from actors, workers of the play and some customers.

Every pony I passed stared at me, or did it just feel like they bore their eyes on me? Were they suspicious of my suspicion? If one of them was a changeling, they would've been weary, wouldn't they?

I caught a motion, a pink blur with curled tail and a long draping dress walking slowly into my room, and it calmed my beating heart. It was her, she's fine. I hope so. But as I approached the slightly open door leading into the room she had just entered, I could hear muffled voices, plural. She was talking to someone.

“And… You're sure he won't suspect anything?” Cadance's voice spoke, and another replied.

“Yes. Just make sure to keep him distracted while we work on it, should be done the day after tomorrow.” It was familiar, but I couldn't make out. The singing on the main stage was too loud for me to hear.

“Great, it shouldn't be too hard. You're a life-saver.” Cadence replied to the voice, but as I reached for the handle to see for myself, out came Cadance who bumped into me. “Shining?!” She announced loudly.

Try as I might, I couldn't look over her shoulder or peek through the crack as she closed the door, but there was somepony else there. Even then, she blocked my path.

“Cadance! Where in Tartarus have you been?!” She can't just go away like that, talk to some random stranger, then act like nothing just happened. There best be a good excuse for this.

She was surprised and clearly nervous, but I pressed on, not backing down, something is wrong here.

“Oh! Dear! I was-” There best be a good excuse for her absence. “I was just talking over with one of the actors from the play, they wanted my autograph, you know how alicorn life is.”

Autograph? Weren't most of the actors on stage still? I suppose that's plausible, and I want to believe her but… There's so much to worry about, and I don't want anything to happen to her. I need to make sure everything is fine. And even now, should I directly confront her about what I heard? Or maybe it's best she thinks we only found each other accidentally.

“Really now? Would I be able to talk to them, then?” My passive aggressive inquiry didn't go unnoticed, Cadance was always good with social cues. And as I peeked over her shoulder to try and reach for the handle, Cadance stepped in the way and pressed her head against my chest.

“Oh no, no, he's getting ready to go back on stage. Really, we should let him take his rest. Why don't we head back up and enjoy the rest of the play? We're just about to get to the good part of it!” Conveniently, I couldn't talk to him. But what if she's right? What if there's nothing to worry about and I just need to calm down and relax?

I wanted to trust my wife, but everything that's happened, it's difficult. But… What is a relationship without trust?

I'm reluctant and silent, and as she looks up at me for confirmation with that damn smile, I just sigh. I can't be mad at her, I should only be mad at myself for thinking that her walking away for a couple of minutes is a sign that some kind of terrible catastrophe is about to happen. I'm a damn moron, ugh…

“Yes… You're right, I'm sorry dear.” Frowning with a head shake, I turn away and walk alongside her down the carpeted hallways, where the sounds from the play have drowned out just enough for us to converse gently. “You know how I am. I want you to be safe, I'm sorry for acting up…”

“It's okay, I get how you can be a bit of a nut case sometimes…” Way to comfort me, heh. “I know you're just trying your best to take care of me, but I can handle myself. Twilight can handle herself too, she's not the foal she used to be.”

“I… Know. I'm sorry.” Suddenly, she stopped and I did too, turning to me, but I failed to look her in the eye.

“It's okay, let's finish the play though, please?” Cadance leaned in for a quick peck, and I retributed the love. “I've been waiting for so long for some off time like this.”

But the kiss didn't quite feel as warm as they were, or came with as much of a gentle passion as they usually did. I found it strange but it was my mind playing tricks, this is my Cadance, she's real and she's here. Together, we headed back through the halls and to our seats, having some light conversation on the way.

Once the act had finished, we headed home and laughed together about the comedic ending, her laughter was genuine, her eyes and cheeks creaking with her smile, yet it was all too calculated, like she had rehearsed and perfectly captured the timing of her laughter.

Late at night, we slept together in bed, but while she's usually warm and close to me, always wrapping herself around my body, tonight it almost felt like a forcefield separated us. I chalked it up to stress, but what if it's something more?

I didn't want to let myself believe in a lie, but I couldn't deny the possibility this might not be my Cadance. Something could have happened that night in that back room, what if the one that requested her autograph was a changeling? What if it replaced her? Where would the real Cadance be?

It was difficult to sleep that night as I tossed and turned and thought to myself, and the idea that I was sleeping next to a monster horrified me. The next day when I woke up, my eyes refused to stay open, but I had my duties to follow. I couldn't stay in bed no matter how much sleep I felt I needed. The crystal Empire needs me and I won't fail them.

I was just worrying too much. Everything is fine, and I don't need to add more problems to the pile. As I made my way out of bed, showered, then stepped into the Crystal palace's dining hall, I was immediately hit with the refracting sunlight coming from the windows, forcing my tired eyes awake, only to spot Cadance sitting at the long dining table with a smile, patiently waiting for me.

“Morning dear!” She greets me with almost too much excitement for someone who's just woken up. “I thought, since I woke up early, why not make your favorite breakfast! Haycakes with some steaming chocolate, just for you!”

It's a nice surprise but I honestly don't understand why she would do this, usually it's the other way around. It’s a nice change of pace, and maybe she just wants this to make me feel better after last night… Or to gain my trust. Stepping closer to the table, I find a perfectly arranged plate with a smile on the haycakes made out of strawberries, my favorite. A changeling shouldn't know my favorite breakfast, and this should put me at ease, yet… It felt almost calculated. Why does it feel like she's trying to remind me of how well she knows me?

“Oh wow, thank you dear!” Despite my somewhat worried thanks, I sat and chowed down on the food, enjoying the sweet taste and the fulfilling meal. “I really needed this.”

I keep reminding myself that my wife is my wife, but the feeling in the back of my mind is still nagging me.

“I'm happy to help.” Cadance eats her own breakfast, which seems to be similar to mine. Strange, I thought she didn't like strawberries. “Ugh I have so much on my plate, I’m just hoping today can just go on by and I can come home to my loving husband, lay in bed together, maybe do something nice if we end up having time for it.”

My loving husband? Not even the princess of love would say something so cheesy and on the nose.

“Oh? What’re you going to do?” Specifics. The devil is always in the details, if there is something wrong, surely this is where a changeling would slip and falter. “Weren’t you going to help reinforce security around the castle?”

“What? No, I wouldn’t do that.” Hm, that is true. Cadence wouldn’t do that sort of thing, she’d leave it to me instead. “I actually need to go over finances with Pennyworth and see how we can reallocate funds for the new hospital, then talk with some dignitaries from Canterlot, make a public appearance at the new orphanage, and the university of magic for a quick lecture, not only that, but the crystal heart has been faltering recently due to the changeling scare, and I’m going to need your help with the speech. What about you dear?”

Well if it was a changeling, it had studied her agenda correctly, those were the plans for today.
“I’m not sure… I’m going to look over some of the new recruits to see how their training is going, then I’ll likely look over some security measures with Valor Heart, she said she had some ideas on how we can calm the citizens down.” Valor Heart was one of the most prestigious captains in my squad, a right hoof for me whenever I wasn’t around, I’d trust her with my life, as I had before when we fought against the ursa in the arctic north. “It’s a full day for both of us but as long as I can relax after it with you, I’ll be more than happy.”

As she walked past me having just finished her plate, she leaned down and planted a gentle warm kiss on my forehead, it almost reminded me of when we started dating, yet this too felt calculated. Was she trying to remind me of how much she loves me?

No, I’m trying to find issues where there’s none, she’s not changed, she’s her. My wife.

“See you around dear.” I added watching her strut out of the room, but maybe she didn’t hear me because she didn’t respond. Regardless, I got up myself and made my way to the bedroom, where I changed into my outfit for the day.

“ATTENTION!” Valor’s voice was commanding and intimidating, it was like she demanded all the attention for herself whenever she spoke. Her appearance reminded me of an arctic wolf, with how she had white fur with grayish mane and tail, accompanied by clean, ice colored blue eyes. “WHEN I SAY GO, I WANT YOU ALL TO MOVE YOUR FLANKS UNTIL YOUR MUSCLES BEG FOR YOU TO STOP! AM I CLEAR?!”

“YES MA’AM!” The squad replied in unison, all stood in a line shoulder-to-shoulder under the scorching Sun. Before them, a series of tracks and physical training exercises to prepare them for the job of a royal guard. My presence was merely a formality, but it was necessary so I usually avoided talking directly to the recruits, but there were a few exceptions.

“GO! MOVE! MOVE! MOVE!” And just like that they were off, huffing and panting as they jumped obstacles, sweating under the heat while jumping over logs, crawling in mud, swinging across ropes, and dodging fake arrows. “YOU CALL THAT RUNNING!? MY GRANDMA WITH A WALKER CAN RUN FASTER THAN YOU!”

“Do you really have a grandma?” I chuckled at the comment, watching the recruits from afar, wearing that tight, red outfit adorned with medals, I was sweating in it too despite not exercising as much as them.

“Sorta.” Valor replied with a soft chuckle. “She makes me cookies sometimes.” Soon, she joined me in pony-watching the new recruits suffer through the physical training, yelling from the sidelines as some of them continuously failed the same easy obstacles, a moment of levity from my daily life, it even reminded me of my early days in the royal guard.

But it was hard to focus. I was worried about today’s breakfast, and how mechanical everything felt, unlike a spontaneous burst of love. Yet, I didn’t have any evidence that actually made her out to be what I think she might be. It’s all based on a ‘feeling’ and it’s superficial at best, but I know it.

Even when I was under the control of Queen Chrysalis, everything felt wrong, but I just ignored the signs. I thought it was just the wedding wearing heavy on Cadance’s mind, but something wasn’t right and I just ignored it. Even now, that same awful feeling of uncertainty is stirring in the depths of my mind, as much as I want to push it away.

“Sir? Are you okay?” Valor broke my line of thought again. “You have that look on your face.”

“That look?”

“You always stare at the ground when you’re thinking like that. I’ve known you for a while, you would’ve been laughing your ass off at the recruits, like c’mon, that mare over there was afraid of getting her hooves dirty in the mud section of the PT.” I glanced over at where Valor was pointing, and fair enough, some posh crystal mare refused to crawl on the mud and was trying to find some other way around the ditch, it got a small exhale out of me, but nothing more.

“Maybe I should’ve put someone else in your place. Someone who doesn’t know me as well.” That was sort of a pat on the back for my choice in commanders.

“But you didn’t, and I want to understand why you’re like this.” Valor approached, almost with a gentle tone, one I’d only ever heard her use once, when I needed comforting after my wedding. “C’mon, I helped you out once, I’ll help you again. You can’t stay closed off like this forever.”

Why does she want to know? Just so she can tell her changeling friends that I'm already growing suspicious of my wife?

No, Valor wouldn't let herself be taken like that, at least not without a fight. But I can't be certain.

I wish I could tell her how I’m feeling. As I stared back into her eyes, I couldn’t bring myself to say another word, out of fear for my horrors to be true.

“Ah, you know, just a bad night’s sleep.” I dodge the subject with a sigh. “My back still hurts, I really need to get a new mattress…”

“Let me guess, the Mistress takes up half the bed when she sleeps. Heh, I know this great store downtown…” Valor chuckled. “If it helped me, it can help you.”

That was natural. And the store downtown, that’s not something a changeling would know unless it had been living here in the Crystal Empire, no?

I might have been overthinking this too, I should just be straight and blunt with her. She’s one of the few I can trust.

“Actually… I-” But I’m interrupted by the loud yelling coming from the exercise track before me.

Me and Valor turn in unison to catch two crystal ponies yelling to each other like children. We approach to find out what the hell is going on, and as we get closer, the dialogue becomes clearer and we have to break through a small crowd of spectating ponies to get a good look at the scene.

“Of course you are! You can’t even remember the name of our hometown!” The pegasus mare yells, raising her tone to the stallion before her, who has a look of utter confusion in his face.

“What?! I lived there when I was like- 2! How do you expect me to remember such a small detail!?” What even is this argument about?

“Settle down!” I interjected and stepped between the two, clearly disappointed. “It’s not even been the first week and you two are already getting into trouble! What the hell is this about!?”

The stallion opens his mouth to speak, but is interrupted by his mare friend.

“He’s a changeling! Last night, I saw him sneaking out of camp and when he came back, he was acting all weird! Now suddenly, the armor doesn’t fit him, he can’t remember where we used to live TO-GE-THER FOR YEARS! And yesterday, he got lost inside the castle during his patrol!” Oh this is what this is about. “A changeling wouldn’t know his way around the castle, nor would it remember childhood memories!”

“Wha- I’m not a changeling! I’m just tired, okay?! It’s the second week of royal guard training, I can’t keep up with everything all the time!” The stallion stepped back, glancing around the crowd, soft murmurs seem to travel through the air. Some believed it, others thought it was an exaggeration. “C’mon Frosty, you’ve known me for ages! Don’t do this to me!”

These are serious accusations, and in cases like this, I need to give the benefit of the doubt to the accuser. There is no easy way of discerning if he is or isn't a changeling.

Approaching the stallion, my eyes weighed heavy on him, as my cold unbroken gaze stared deep into his eyes. Micro-motions were the tell, he was dripping in sweat too. Something wasn’t right, and usually when someone is a changeling, you get a sudden gut feeling that something about them isn’t quite right. Or maybe that's just a thing I have.

For the safety of the empire, I need to take drastic measures against this type of threat, to ensure the safety of all.

“What else have you noticed?” I added while still scanning the stallion up and down.

“The hesitation, the slipping up on basic routines. He’s been sneaking around after hours too. I bet if you check his quarters, you’ll find something.” She added, stepping to my side, while her friend seemed to tremble in his hooves, scared for his life, even though he shouldn’t.

Ponies stared at the both of us, gathered in circles. I turned to face Valor but she simply averted her eyes, almost as if what was going on before her was a necessary evil.

Usually in normal cases, I’d say that everypony is innocent until proven guilty, but in this exceptional threat, I need to also make exceptions, to keep my family and my kingdom safe.

“Sir!- P-Please! You need to understand- I’ve been tired, bootcamp has been really rough and-” Blabbering on and on, as if trying to save himself.

“Silence!” I ordered. “If you’re truly a citizen of this Empire, you will comply and prove your innocence. We’ll investigate your life, ask some questions, and if you’re not guilty, you’ll be free to walk back to your normal life without issue. We can’t take any chances, I’m sure you know this.”

“Sir please! This is madness! I haven’t done anything! You can’t just—" Who the hell is he to tell me what I can't and cannot do?

“I CAN AND I WILL!” I yell to his face, pushing one hoof against his chest. He’s trying to save himself a bit too much for my liking, this is only worsening his chances. “Report to the holding cells immediately, unless you’d rather be dragged along the floor by a pair of guards?”

I am the prince, I have as much power as the princess, this is my empire and I was trusted by Princess Celestia herself to rule over and protect it. I won't let it fall on enemy hands!

I stepped close, so close I could almost hear his quickened heartbeat, with an unmoving expression that demanded respect and authority. I will keep my people safe, no matter the cost.

Just like that, he left in silence, the crowd made way for him to walk out, murmuring words and rumors.

“That goes for all of you!” I yell at them too. They should know nopony is safe. “If any of you in here is secretly a changeling, rest assured that the full might of the empire will strike you down and destroy you before you ever get a chance to threaten us ever again! Am I clear?!”

Just then, images of my wedding come back to me. The struggle against the hypnotizing magic that Chrysalis used on me, the headaches, the pain as soon as I found out I was never marrying my true love, but a twisted illusion. I can’t even tell if Cadance was real back then, let alone if she’s real now.

But I need to distinguish what is real and what is fake, Cadence is real and she is here, I’m going paranoid over nothing. I couldn’t let them get to me, this is exactly what they wanted, to keep me like this until I lose my mind, I’m already falling behind on my sleep schedule so who knows what side effect might happen?

Psychological warfare at its finest, and I won’t fall for it. I won’t fall for it. I won’t fall for it…

“Well what’re you all standing around for!? Get moving! Go! Go! Go! Move your flanks!” Valor screamed and the recruits trotted back to their activities. I just sighed and glanced at her in silence, before stepping ahead and being stopped in my tracks by a young guard.

“Ma’am Valor Heart! Prince Shining! Major Grindstone has called for an urgent meeting!” A young stallion burst in-between me and Valor, Grindstone never calls for a meeting, this has to be something important.

“Ladies and gentlecolts,” What an opener, almost makes me feel like I’m watching another play. Grindstone stood at the front of our meeting room, where we all sat at a circular table. I was at the very middle. Bright Quill, the unicorn head researcher and magical specialist for the army sat to my left, while Valor was at my right. Grindstone, the senile pegasus head of intelligence, continued. “It has come to our attention that the rumors are true.”

“You don’t mean to say…” Bright Quill shifted in his seat, and I just raised a brow. Surely, not, right?

“Oh but I do.” Using his wing, he grabbed a paper package and threw it on table dramatically for all to see. “Yesterday, at the request of Shining, a squad was sent out to investigate rumors of changeling activity near the arctic north, they only managed to get back to us now due to the heavy blizzard last night. It was seen walking in the direction of the empire. We maanged to wound it, but it is still alive.”

The pictures were clear. A black dot in the snow with a long trail of footsteps behind it along with a trail of dotted crimson blood on the snow. I expected changeling blood to be green? Other pictures showed a make-shift camp, with a campfire and a cooking pot. But I thought changelings feeded off of love?

Even despite being presented with clear evidence, I almost didn’t want to believe it. If it was seen walking in the direction of the empire, who’s to say it’s not already here? Or worse, that it has already replaced somepony?

An even worse thought crossed my mind.

What if it’s already in the room with us right now?

My heart begins to race as I glance around what feels like a claustrophobic conference room, the eyes of my advisors shifted and turned into something more nefarious that stared down into my soul with hunger for love. Maybe Cadance hasn’t been replaced yet, and they’re just waiting for the perfect moment to strike, maybe they’re trying to get to her right as we’re sitting around in here, wasting time, being distracted.

“Shining, what should we do about the changeling threat?” Valor turned to me with a serious look on her face, but I could barely bring myself to stare into her beady, disgusting insectoid eyes, and her body… It was full of holes and twisted like disgusting skin.

No, no, no, there’s… It’s impossible, it can’t be in here, the amount of layers of security… A headache instantly hit me and I was forced to bring my hoof to my forehead, groaning with pain, but the creature approached.

“Shining? Are you alright?” It reached out to touch me with its broken hooves, its tongue slithering with every putrid word that came out of his mouth. My vision was a blur, the feeling of lightheadedness made me sick to my stomach and I held back the bit of vomit that forced its way to my throat. “Shining!”

Stay focused, don't let them get to you… I'm so tired of fighting I just want to rest… Gah! Fuck! I need to focus! Focus! The room felt small, the air was thin, no matter how much I grasped for it, it escaped me, and as my heart beat quicker and quicker, the pain was drowned out by the adrenaline.

Something spoke to me but at that point I couldn't understand. When my vision and body finally came back to me, I was kneeling on the ground like a pathetic coward, surrounded by my advisors.

“He’s coming back now, he's coming back!” Bright Quill was over me, a cloud of sparkling magic flowed from his horn to mine. It was similar to chrysalis’, so I immediately jumped back and pushed him away, much to his surprise.

“What happened?!” Valor questioned, this time, she really was herself, but the idea that she wasn't still ruined my semi-cohesive line of thought.

“J-Just a very heavy headache.” It wasn't a lie, but not the full truth either. I gripped my forehead once again with my hoof as the pulsating feeling came back to me. “I'm fine now.”

“You sure?” Valor seemed to be sincerely worried, but what if she was acting just like the actors of the play?

“Um- I-” Focus. I clear my mind and try to come back to my normal self, trying to push the flashbacks of my wedding away before clearing my throat then turning to Bright Quill. “Bright Quill, as head of research you have all the resources you need to figure out a way to reveal these changelings. There has to be something, some kind of magical potion, an ink, fruit or spell, something that can reveal if someone’s a changeling. Get on it.” He nodded at me with confidence.

I had to trust the ponies in this room, or at least look like I did. No telling if there isn’t one among us already.

“Grindstone, if you can get your stallions on the sky searching for any kind of suspicious activity on the outskirts of the empire, that’d be appreciated. Try to figure out where that damn changeling went, he can’t be far.” Grindstone nodded before I finally turned to Valor. “You’re my right hoof mare, reinforce security on the castle especially for the speech, and be on standby if anything happens. The threat of changelings will be dealt with, and they will be eradicated from the face of this Earth” Those words were just that, words. I didn’t mean anything of what I said, just mush, words or actions to keep them busy or far away from me and my family, whilst trying to keep them Believing the lie.

How can I not bring myself to fully trust the soldiers I hoof-picked myself for this job? They’re getting to me, but the thing is I can’t let my guard down, I won’t let any of them too close.

They all nod in compliance before leaving the meeting room and going on their way to Celestia knows where. I stayed behind,finding it difficult to grasp the complexity of the situation, my mind already ran rampant with terrifying scenarios, worse than Canterlot even. It was already here…

“Shining, what was it that you wanted to tell me earlier?” She perked her ears, but I knew Valor would never call me Shining, she’d address me by my title. Or would she? I can’t risk any chances.

“Now’s not the time. Just some uh, family issues. Let’s focus on the task at hoof.” I spoke without even turning to face her.

“Right away.”

Sundown was coming, and so was the speech. I watched Cadance sitting in front of the mirror, she rehearsed her lines and prepared herself for the speech, but that's when a thought struck my mind. Ever since the night at the theater, I can't forget this.

If the actors can rehearse a role to the point where they embody the character and become one with it, what says a changeling can’t study somepony? That's a dumb question, that's probably what they already do, but If they find out ways to know things about the pony they're copying, what’s stopping them from basically turning into a near-perfect copy just like the actors from the play, down to even the most subtle of emotions and traits?

I stepped closer to the mirror, next to her, then stood staring at my own reflection in that tight formal royal suit, red, adjourned with medals. Frankly I hated wearing it but for Cadance, I'd do anything.

“Do I really have to wear this?” I tugged at the collar then turned to Cadance, who sighed, fixing her necklace, something I’d bought for her back when we started dating.

“Just for a couple, it’ll be over before you know it. Gives an air of control, of eloquence, and most importantly, of competency.” She came up from behind, and wrapped her arms around me. I twitched and hesitated for a second, I think she might have noticed by the way she side-glanced me.

“We show our might through actions, not through… Pieces of cloth.” What happened to her? Where is my loving and caring wife? When did she start caring more about clothes than actually addressing our subjects?

“Well looking good never killed anyone.” What does she even mean? Who would ever even say that besides Rarity? She let go of me and stepped to the side, clearing her throat. “Come on, they’re waiting on us.”

I let Cadance lead the way as she stepped through a double doorway out into a balcony, we were greeted by the cheers and screams of adoring subjects below us, a large crowd of ponies held back by a long line of Royal Guards, Valor was taking her job seriously fortunately.

Cadance waved for a couple of seconds with a smile, I did the same though I’d always preferred to have a more serious image rather than a warm one, as I always figured I was the one who should pass along the feeling of security in our kingdom. Cadance then began speaking loudly in her Royal Canterlot voice, her volume echoed through the streets.

“Citizens of the Crystal Empire” She starts. “I stand before you today not just as your princess, but as a fellow pony who understands the fears we are all feeling. I know that many of you are worried—worried about your families, your friends, and your future in these uncertain times.”

She paused for a moment, scanning the whispering and murmuring audience before continuing. I did the same, but couldn't find any kind of threat.

“The changelings tried to deceive us once, and yes, they caused great pain.” Cadence turns to me for a second, and it catches me off guard, especially with how she looks me directly in the eye with a quick sigh before continuing. “But we stood strong then, and we stand strong now. We will not let fear divide us or make us lose faith in one another.”

She was doing most of the speaking, I hadn’t prepared any words or any kind of speech, but her tone was sincere and the crystal ponies were paying close attention to every word, yet I could only think about her. A changeling wouldn’t be able to deliver this kind of inspiring speech, surely.

Cadence continued.

“I promise you, we are doing everything in our power to keep the Empire safe. Every measure has been taken to ensure that changelings cannot infiltrate our borders again. Our security is stronger than ever, and we will continue to protect our home.” The heart of the Crystal Empire is fueled by love, and if we can’t get the ponies to love and trust each-other, then the whole empire might be a risk. In these dark times, Cadance’s words were inspiring and gave them hope. It gave me hope too. They were spoken with the clarity and resolve of a true ruler.

“The Crystal Empire stands, and as long as we trust each other, it will never fall. Trust in yourselves, trust in your fellow ponies, and trust in us to keep you safe.” After a quick pause, the ponies cheered with smiles on their faces.

They felt secure, they could rest easy knowing their daughter or husband aren't changelings, knowing that they can trust eachother for whatever situation may come, and that their love will continue to fuel the great empire, their hope lighting the way for greener pastures.

But I didn't know what to feel. Her speech made me think, but my gut feelings and my intuition ringed alarms all over.

Yet, the beating of the Crystal Heart could be heard across the Empire, like pulsating waves that echoed louder the more the crowd cheered.

When we went back inside, I took a good look at Cadence, a very close look.

I’m trying to find problems where there are none, aren’t I? Like she said, we need to trust each other so we can keep eachother safe, and I was an idiot for not trusting her. Maybe it’s about time I tell her, she’s the one mare I can confide in with things like this, if not her, then who else?

“Dear… Can… I talk to you for a second?” She turned to face me and we both stopped in the middle of the hallway.

“Oh, of course, what is it?” We stood in the glistening crystal hallway, her curious eyes beckoned for an answer while I tried to find the words to say what I was thinking, but in a more dialed back way. I couldn't believe I was stupid like that…

“For a while now, I’ve… Well I’m sorry for how I’ve been acting.” I sighed and approached her. I had let myself be controlled by doubts and fears, when I should’ve just talked to her all along. “It’s… Been difficult for me as you can guess, taking care of security for the Empire, and I’ve been worried sick about you lately. You weren’t acting like your usual self so- I- Y-You can kind of guess what my worries were…”

“Aw… Shining…” She didn’t hold back for a moment, Immediately stepping closer to me while bringing her hoof to my cheek. I tried to pull away but she always pulled me back. It was difficult to bring myself to look her in the eyes, but even as I did, their comforting gaze made me feel at home. “I was wondering why you were acting like that too.”

“You noticed?”

“How couldn’t I? I’m married to you, we’ve been dating for years, I know when something’s wrong.” I wish I could say the same thing, but instead I just made up reasons for me to find little mounting mistakes in her actions. “It’s okay, I understand, with everything that happened in such a short amount of time, the wedding, being thrusted into being a prince for the empire and having to deal with all of… This. I know it's difficult, I'm barely keeping it together too. But good things will come, as they always do, you’ll see.”

I can’t even find words to thank her. She is so incredibly strong, having to deal with everything going on in the Empire and still finding time to comfort me. I don't deserve her. This is the mare I married, she is the one I promised to be together with in sickness and in health, the mare I love, and I was a moron for doubting it.

“I’m… Sorry…” Is all I could muster up in the heat of the moment, trying to hold back a tear from my twitching eyes.

“It’s okay dear, you know I love you.” The sincerity of those words weren’t a source of doubt for me anymore. “We… both need to spend some quiet time together. What do you say we step out onto the balcony to watch the stars, like how we used to?”

“Wow… I think I haven’t done that since our uni days.” It was an activity we’d do every now and then, the university we studied at in Canterlot was on top of a tall hill overlooking most of the city, we’d always lay down on the grass and stargaze together, we’d talk for hours, about our future, our dreams, everything. It was so simple back then, so... clear. No masks. No doubts. “Everything was simpler back then, just you and me…” I pulled her close, my hoof holding her soft cheek.

I searched her eyes for any semblance that these memories were hers too. She gave me a smile.

“Yeah it was, wasn’t it?” I wish I could turn back time.

“I still need to check in on the sentries, but once I do, I’ll meet with you, okay?” I gave her a quick peck and went on my way along the halls.

The castle seemed colder tonight, a slight breeze rolled through the windows and made me shiver. I hope the sentries won’t get too cold tonight, but I’d rather that than a changeling invade our castle.

I met up with them just outside the main hall. A quick exchange of words and I was back on my way, nothing to report so far, no strange movements, no one had heard or seen a peep. It’d be a while before I heard anything from my advisors either, so I just needed to calm down and relax for the night. I can be with her, and I can say the words I've been meaning to say.

But as I wandered alone through the hallways, I could never shake off the feeling that I was never truly alone, that the echoing footsteps weren’t just my own, that the whispers I heard weren’t just the howling wind. I left for just a few minutes, but I hope Cadance is okay.

Opening the doors to our bedroom, I glanced at the curtains next to the opened balcony door that flowed with the wind, it really was a windy night tonight wasn’t it? But before I could join Cadance, I had to remove my formal top. I sighed and stepped closer to our wardrobe, where I unbuttoned my red top and placed it neatly on a hanger, Cadence called out to me.

“Is everything alright dear?” She spoke from outside.

“Yes, there shouldn’t be anything bothering us tonight. I asked the Sentries for some… Privacy, just in case.” I didn’t have plans, but who knows where the night would take us?

Cadence chuckled.

“Come join me, the sky is beautiful tonight.”

Finally, I can take some time off and relax. As I step out to the balcony, I'm greeted by the sea of stars above us, Cadance lays on her side, her head tilted up soaking in the moonlight.

“It's so beautiful, isn't it?” She asks as I take my place beside her, and I can't help myself but make a corny joke.

“Not as beautiful as you.” I take her hoof with mine, our bodies touching gently.

“I knew you'd say that.” Quickly, she gives me a peck on the cheek before sitting down on the ground, leaning her head against my shoulder. “Today was so tiring. But I'm happy to spend the night with you.”

“I wish we could have more time for ourselves.” I speak as I tilt my head upwards, staring down at the beautiful formations overhead. The gentle cold breeze of the night, the calm whistling of the wind, it all felt so surreal and serene, I could feel our bodies sharing that moment of warmth and love. After a second or two of silence, I tried to apologize. “Sorry for… Being out of it.”

“It's okay, you already apologized.” She added.

“Yes, I did but… I want you to know that you are the love of my life. I want you to know how much you do for me, for the empire, for everyone around you. You're one of the most caring, most understanding, gentle and kind ponies I've ever met.” Suddenly, I looked down. The stars were meaningless to me. The only star I could ever want to stargaze was sitting right beside me, and I needed her to know it. “What happened was bad, but I had you by my side. You were there for me, and I'll always be here for you too. I see how much you struggle, and I want you to be reminded of just how much you matter.”

When I looked at her eyes, lost in mine, I could only feel our hearts thumping in that very moment. Her gentle lips curved into a smile, while her cheeks were flushing red. I gave her a long, tight kiss, holding her close.

“Thank you… After the last few days… That means a lot to me.” She deserves it, more than anypony I know. However, once she pulled away from the hug, she opened her eyes. “I think it's time you know. There's something for you just on-top of the drawer. I want you to open it here for me, I want to see your reaction.”

Something for me? Even through all this, she still has a surprise for me? I really don't deserve her.

“Okay. I'll go grab it.” I plant another peck before lifting myself and walking over inside.

Just under the orange light of a candle holder on our nightstand was a small green gift box wrapped in a red ribbon, sat atop an open book. I floated it off, but as I did, something caught my attention. Written in the notebook was “Likes stargazing” what is this?

I took a closer look at the page, and a sudden wave washed over me, it made my eyes widen and every inch of my body stood up as if an electric shock had made its way up my spine.

I dropped the gift box where I stood. This was Cadance's diary, where she would often write about things she did, speeches, schedules, so she wouldn't forget. It was open on a page titled with my name, listing every single one of my interests, even the strawberry haycakes. No, no it couldn't be.

No, it isn't true. It can't have happened. Can it? I flipped through a few of the pages, it even had the script for today's speech.

Like a script for a play.

Had she been replaced, this would be a treasure trove of information on her, her likes, dislikes, me, the empire, everything. My real Cadance was gone, she was kidnapped during the play.

Stop! I can't think like this! I refused to believe it! Not again, it can't have happened again. This wasn't real, she was here and she was my loving supporting wife. But what if she was nothing more than a well crafted illusion? The more I tried to push it away, the more the idea came back to me.

My world collapsed in an instant. I'd kissed her, I'd hugged her! I called her dear!

And this time, I won't let myself be deceived once again. They took Cadance, and she's out there somewhere, yearning for her knight in shining armor to come rescue her from her torment, while I stargaze with a monster. I was deceived once again, controlled by her, but this time, I had the upper hand.

I won't make the same mistake twice. I'll end this here and now. I'll make her regret coming here.

“Dear? Is everything okay?” The monster spoke from the balcony.

“Yes. I'm fine.” I reluctantly spoke back.

I opened the drawer and floated something out of it, a golden letter opener, then turned towards the balcony, the rustling wind covered my approach, but as I prepared to strike, it turned to face me just in time, recoiling with a scream.

“SHINING! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!” It screamed, as it struggled and kicked me back. I swept and swung the blade, I tried to reach for the vital organs. Neck, eye, anything, but only managed a small papercut.

“MONSTER! WHERE IS SHE! WHERE IS MY WIFE!” I screamed and watched it struggle to lift itself from the floor before dashing back inside. I chased after it, managed to jump on it just as it stepped inside, throwing it with force towards the bedframe with a loud thud.

It screeched in pain, arching its back and opening its wings while slithering its slimy tongue. “AGH! PLEASE! SHINING! STOP!”

I had it dead to rights, it sat down facing me, with his back on the slightly cracked crystal bed frame, and as it attempted to get up, I jumped on top of it, with my blade at my side, straddling it and preventing it from getting up. The creature screeched once it saw my blade floating at my side, and I didn't waste time and aimed directly for the throat, striking down on it.

Yet it was resilient. It held back with all its might, struggling and fighting against me with its hooves using its magic to push back the blade. I had a moment to stare into those cold, insectoid eyes, into its black and twisted skin, and it continued to beg for mercy. As if I would ever believe it.

I pushed the blade down, but it held it back with its magic. With all my might, I kept forcing it in, the tip slowly but surely getting closer to its skin, for a moment it even touched it, but suddenly a burst of magic, like a small explosion threw me to the side, flinging me to the nightstand where I hit my back and fell to the ground. I growled in pain, my bones ached while I lifted myself but they ached for revenge. When I saw it running galloping the balcony, the only thing I could think about was Cadance, about everything that had gone wrong during the wedding.

I won't let it escape. Not again. I took the opportunity to float the candle holder at my side, before dashing to the balcony where it was already flying off the ground, flapping its wings.

But just as it was getting away, I took a bite at its tail and forcefully pulled it down, slamming it belly first into the crystal, before once again straddling it with my hooves.

I saw the sparks on its horn, probably preparing another blast, but I swung my golden candle holder at the side of its head, making it screech once again. I wanted to see the life fade away from its eyes, so I turned it around onto its back, then hit it again with the candle holder.

“SHINING! PLEASE! STOP! PLEASE! I BEG YOU!” It continued to ask for mercy, of course it would its life depended on it. But I wouldn't fall for it anymore. I could see it for what it really was. I hit the side of the head again with the candle holder.

“WHAT'D YOU DO! WHERE IS SHE! TELL ME OR I'LL KILL YOU!” I swung it again, each consecutive hit causing more bruising, this time hitting the cheek, while both my hooves were firmly placed on its throat. But the creature didn't give in, the slimy changeling continued to beg and beg.

“I DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT! PLEASE! STOP!” By this point, I'd run out of patience. I hit it again, then again, then again, until I saw blood, until the candle holder had been bent out of shape, until the splatters were all over the crystal floor, until it choked and gagged on its own blood. Until it cried tears of pain, and it could only speak and beg for me to stop, but I wouldn't.

For Canterlot, for taking my wife, for deceiving me, for attacking my country. Again and again and again, fueled by rage, screaming at the top of my lungs, I kept going, and by the time I stopped hitting it, blood had pooled around us. My once marshmallow white coat was now covered in bright red, warm blood. The candle holder too.

The creature's body was torn, its face disfigured. Where there once were teeth, they had been knocked out. Its eyes were red and bruised, the side of its head had been torn with a laceration cutting across part of the scalp, yet the fucking thing was still breathing. Even in its last moments, it didn't give up the act.

“I… love you…” It could barely manage to speak through heaved and tired breaths, with a raspy voice that coughed up blood every now and then. I finally could look into the Changeling’s eyes and watch as life faded away from him. Finally, some relief, some pleasure. After all I've been through, I deserved this. Don't worry dear wherever you are, I'll find you and I'll get you out.

I stood over the dead body disguised as my wife. Panting and sweating, my heart was racing. Everything is fine now, I finally got back at them. I think it's about time I took a good rest. But as I stepped inside to get under my bed sheets, a blood stained note caught my attention. It was inside the gift box from earlier, which had been torn open and kicked around during the ruckus, and there was something written on it.

“You're going to be a father!”