Blank Flanks Uniteby Dash AttackChaptersBlank Canvus Meets The CMCfive characters in search of a cutie markIt's got to be my destiny The Mark of a Leader Blank Canvus Meets The CMCThree years ago, Queen Chrysalis injected her eggs with a serum containing stolen pony DNA. The goal was to create changelings that could be creative enough to come up with original disguises. While most of her offspring did not survive the hatching process, the 13 that managed to hatch were beyond her expectations. They were all born with the Queen's green eyes, and they each had colorful manes. They also lacked any of holes in their bodies- one of the most distinct aspects of changeling. Not only were these rascals more creative, they each showed more personality than that of a regular drone. They were a creative and talented bunch, but as they progressed through their childhood, an interesting development happened. 12 changelings started to show unique talents and abilities that no normal changeling should have been capable of. These abilities were as simple as inventing, and as extraordinary as insatiability and mind control. Not only that, they all started to get cutie marks. That is all but one. There was one changeling that did not have special talent or power; therefore no cutie mark. While the other 12 gave themselves names to match their skills and abilities, they referred to him as Black Cavas. He was an outcast of the group, being average in everything he did. During their short childhoods, many of the most egoistical of the 12, especially Flash, ridiculed Black. Now at age three, and an adult, Blank Cavas lives among the ponies, doing bidding for the hive whenever he is needed. Despite being given most of the grunt assignments you expect from your average drone, Black always put his all into the job. When out in the field, he had a chance to prove what he could do, with the hope that the next mission would bring him closer to his goal. But it never came. 4 months before the key events of Wasp Friendship Express The changeling spy sat in his seat and gazed out the window, sighing as he passed the beautiful scenery. The green of the grass was as bright as his true eye color. He sighed, as he looked away from the window and thought about his current cover story. His current disguise was that of an Earth pony named Florist; who was looking to sell flowers at the town market. "Florist the Florist," he said to himself. "Man, even my cover names stink." Once he got his "character," he began going over the details of his mission. His objective was to steal a book from some stupid library. Even though he knew who the librarian was and what she was capable of, this was still the easiest assignment he had ever gotten. All he had to do was check out the book and skip town. After all he had done, all the targets he'd killed, and all the crap he had stolen, this was the best they could do? This was complete and utter donkey crap. "All I want is to be some changeling," he mumbled to himself. "Everyone has cool powers and talent's and I have nothing. I'm no better than my drone cousins." He let out another deep sigh. He began to think about all the people who bullied him. Brain, Blitz, Cleaver, Venom, hell even freaking Gizmo and Wasp had made fun of him from time to time; thought not nearly as bad as the others. Even as an adult changeling of three, he felt completely unappreciated. What I wouldn't give to be part of those awesome joint operations I've heard so much about. Than maybe everyone could see him in action. Ah, who am I kidding, I'm nothing to those losers. He didn't understand. Blank was part of the same experiment as everyone else. Deep down, was he really worthy of being considered one of them, or was his lack of holes and colorful mane, the only thing keeping him from being just a regular drone? "We are now reaching Ponyville Station!" cried one of the train attendants, "Next stop, the Crystal Empire." He got off the train, walked outside. On the platform, he gazed at the little town. It was full of happy ponies of all races, living together in what they would call "Perfect Harmony". However, the thing that caught his attention was not the ponies themselves, or the rustic homes in which they lived. No; what caught his attention where the bright and colorful pictures which adorned their flanks. It reminded him how each was unique, an individual that was part of the community at large. It depressed the hell out of him. Well, maybe work can keep me busy and stop my brooding at least for a little bit. Who knows, maybe I'll get a book stealing Cutie Mark this time around. "Yo cuz, you don't actually think this will work do you." "Of course it will Babes. All’s I’ve gotta do is get a running start, and I'll gets’ my hang gliding cutie mark fa sure." "Ya, and if she is in any real danger, I'll fly in and save her." "And Twilight's been teaching me some healing spells. If she does get hurt, I can heal her and get my first aid cutie mare." "Um Sweetie Bell. I'd rather not get hurt doing this." "Oh right sorry." "Ok everypony, here goes nothing." The pre-teen ponies on the hill watched as Apple Bloom jumped off and began to glide towards the town. "What do you mean I can't check out a book!" shouted Blank/Florist at the pink maned pony in front of him. "Sorry, mister but as of right now we don't know if Twilight an alicorn or not because it's not Feb .16th yet. So until then, future Twilight can't checkout any books for you. She asked me to keep an eye on the place while she's at Canterlot studying. Or is she on a Royal mission of some kind? One or the other, depending on whether she has wings or not." I recognize this pony from the hives records. She is supposed be pretty out there. I should tell the drones in intelligence to change that to *down right out of her freaking mind. I'll just have to go plan B and steal the book when it gets late.* "That make perfect sense, I'll just go now." "Wait!" shouted Pinkie. "You have to save Apple Bloom and join the Cutie Mark Crusaders." Black tilted his head and stared at the strange pony. "What the hells an Apple- "SOMEPONY HELP ME! AH CAN'T STOP IT!" In the sky above, a yellow earth pony was gliding out of control. Blank looked up and turned his head to Pinkie Pie. "How the hell did you know that was going to happen?" "I'm in a library silly; I read it in this book. I think this the part where I close my eyes for a few second only to find that your not - She opened her eyes only to find that Blank/Florist was no longer there. "Ooh Ooh that was the part," she said enthusiastically. "I better read on to see what happens next," " Scootaloo!" shouted Apple Bloom. "HELP ME." "I can't keep up, the wind is too strong. Awh man why did RD have to go joining the Wonderbolts?" Apple Bloom’s hang glider was out of control, being pulled every which way by the strong winds. Up and down, up and down; left and right, left and right. At this point she was getting nauseas, but she knew what would happen if she let go. Soon the hang glider was getting a little to close to the Ghastly Gorge, which looked as ghastly as ever. "This is it; I’m going to die a blank flank. I'm so sorry Applejack and Big Macintosh." Just as she was about to crash into the depth of the Gorge, her hang glider started to grow dark green and straightened itself out. She looked up and saw a black figure with a glowing green horn. She couldn't make the figure out due to the sun, but whatever it was, she was sure it was the one who was rescuing her. "Who are you?" she asked, but the creature did not answer as she found herself floating closer and closer to the ground. When she was about 10 feet above the ground, the green light disappeared and she crashed into a tree branch. As she fell to the ground, she saw what she thought was Scootaloo air tackling the black figure. "You’re not going to lay a hoof on my friend you filthy changeling." said Sccootallo as the two of them wrestled in the air. "You, don't understand! I'm- Pow She punched Blank in the head only to find that she couldn't break through his armored shell. As she withdrew her hoof in pain, Black put his training to use and knocked Scootaloo out using the pressure points on here neck. Smack He caught her body with his magic before she had a chance to fall. He flew to a small clearing and laid a sleeping Scootaloo right beside a rock. Well this is just great. I get the easiest assignment of my life, and I fail in less than an hour after I arrive in town. Butterfly-Wings, I suck. Why did I even try to save that stupid pony anyway? Why did he try to save that stupid pony anyway? He was a changeling spy, a born and bred killer, and an experienced terrorist. Why did he stick his neck out for someone who by all accounts was nothing more than food to his kind? "Because that's how the author wrote your character silly? You see this is the part where you realize you actually care about the well-being of others and learn to-" "Leave me the hell alone you weird.... pink ... freak! I mean mother of the hive, you are so freaking annoying. Just leave before I push you off that cliff." Pinkie Pie just smiled as he if didn't just threaten to kill her. "You can't do that silly, because that would be to dark, and that's not one of the tags listed." "I don't care about the damn tags just go away." "Fine, fine, I'll go, man you’re a really grumpy main character." With that, Pinkie Pie hopped off back to the library. "Great now my covers blown, but maybe that lunatic was right. Hurting others has never made me happy. I only did it because I thought it would help me find out who I was. All my life I just wanted to be like the others, with their powers and their talents." He flew up to the sky and gazed out at the gorge. "Today's the day I put my changeling half behind me and embrace all that am. From this day forward, I'm deserting. Goodbye, and good riddance!" "Oh sweet Celestia, what have ya done ta Scootaloo." Black Canvas turned around to see the yellow filly she had saved staring at him. They both stared at each other, gazing at one another’s appearance, "Are you sure you saw her fly here Silver Spoon." said Diamond Tiara "Most definitely, I can't believe that these girls are almost thirteen and they still don't have their cutie marks." She stopped and paused for a minute. Oh wait, yes I can." They both laughed and did their secret flank shake by smashing their butts together. "Wait Silver Spoon," Diamond said as she pointed a hoof. "I think I see that loser Apple Bloom over in that open field, let's go see if she's alright, than we can laugh at her." "What if she is alright?" "We'll laugh at her anyway?" They laughed, smashed their flanks together again and hid behind a bush so they could see and hear everything that was going on. "Is that what I think it is?" asked Silver Spoon. Apple Bloom stared at the creature before her. It was very strange. For one thing, it looked exactly like one of the changelings she saw when she was a little filly. It was a black insect with a black shell and insect wings. However, part of her wasn't sure, because the creature was lacking the one feature that every changeling had. The creature had no holes anywhere. Also, he had a snow white mane and a short snow white tail. All the changelings she saw at the wedding had barely had any manes at all, and what little they did have was all gray. She looked at her unconscious friend and mustered up her courage. "Ah asked ya a question, what did ya do ta mah friend." "Take it easy kid," replied the creature, "Your friends will be alright. She attacked me while I was trying to save you. If didn't do something, we both would have fallen into that gorge over there. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to leave this town before any of you ponies have me arrested." His wings began to hum as he prepared himself to fly when Apple Bloom called out to him "Wait, Mister, I have a question for ya." Black spun around and turned to face the young pony. "What is that?" "Are ya a changeling? If so, ya are the strangest changeling I've ever seen, but I think ya might also be the nicest. Also ,why did ya save me?" Blank was curious. This pony was actually paying attention to him. No wait; this pony was admiring him. He didn't think the Pink Pony was going to report him, and looks like this pony wouldn't either. Maybe it would be alright to stay for a little while. "Well to answer both of your questions, I'm kind of part pony. It's a long story with a lot of disturbing details, but that's why I don't look like most of my kind. As for why I saved ya, us hybrids tend to be more free spirited than the rest of the hive, though if you met some of the others you'd never be able to tell. Quite frankly, I don't really know why I saved you. I guess I acted like any pony your kind would do." He paused for a moment "Now can I ask you a quick question before I get arrested or something." Apple Bloom laughed "Ya don't have ta worry about that, there aint many police officers in ponyville. In fact, I'm not even sure if we got's a police station, but sure, go ahead." "What were you doing just now." Apple Bloom rubbed her neck with her hoof and looked down at the ground. "Well about that, me, ma two friends, and ma cousin Babs don't got no Cutie Marks. We get teased a’ lot because of that, especially from that bitch Diamond Tiara." For a moment, the two of them thought they heard a rustling in the bushes, and it sounded like a baby animal. What they didn't know, was that it was actually Sliver Spoon trying to keep Diamond from pouncing on Applebloom for her shocking insult. "Anyway as I was saying, awhile back we formed this Club to help ponies who don't got their Cutie Marks. We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and we’re on a quest to find out who we are. Of course, sometimes our crusading gets us into trouble." This is sounding way too familiar. I'm older than them and they still have the same problem as me. Well technically I'm only older metal and physically because only three years old, but still this is really trippy. Wait, maybe this is a sign from the changeling goddess Volucris* "You know, most of my kind, - the hybrids- have cutie marks to, but I've been a blank flank most of my life. You know, just before you came here, I was thinking about deserting my hive in order to go soul searching. Do you think maybe I could help you with the club for a little bit. I'll disguise myself as a young colt so your friends don't get scarred. "Good idea, than people won't think you’re a foal snatcher or a pervert while you’re hanging out with us." Blank blushed, and was completely speechless for about five seconds. "This girl is a surprise a minuet" he Thought to himself. "I didn't hear a no anywhere in that sentence so that means you must have said yes. I'm going to go camp in the woods and get into character, I'll find you guys in town tomorrow. "Wait ya don't have camp out in the woods. Ma family owns the largest apple plantation in the county; you can hide in the barn. Blank shook his head. "Thanks but I'd rather not risk it, I'll come find you sometime tomorrow." "Ok, I'm Apple Bloom by the way. What's your name?" The changeling nodded and smiled, "Canvas, Blank Canvas." five characters in search of a cutie markThe next day at school, all Apple Bloom could think about was the mysterious changeling that saved her life and knocked out Scootaloo. Like she promised, she only told her friends that she was saved by black pegasus that just moved into town. Thankfully, Apple Bloom was also able to convince scootaloo that the changeling she saw was just the pegasus and nothing more. After their teacher, aptly named Droll Voice, had dismissed them, the four fillies ran off to meet Apple Bloom’s mysterious new friend. As they made their way, however, they were followed by a very ticked off Diamond and Silver who were hell-bent on exposing the Crusaders. To help them do so, they had recruited the help of an old friend, or pawn in this case. "Are you sure you'll go out with me to the dance if I do this?" asked Featherweight. "Of course I will," lied Diamond Tiara. "Everypony knows how much of a stud you are; now hurry your flank so we can get a picture of the changeling." With that the three ponies followed the Crusaders. "So Apple Bloom, do you think this pony will be mad at me for what I did to him yesterday?" asked Scootaloo. "Well, he was kind of upset, but I think he'll get over it." replied Apple Bloom. "Just be sure not go tackling him mid-flight anymore unless you’re both trying to get your sky wrestling cutie marks." "I bet a sky wrestling cutie mark would look so bad-ass," said Babs "I want a sky wrestling cutie mark..." replied Sweetie Bell. "But you don't have any wings" Apple Bloom pointed out. "Oh right," sighed Sweetie as she drooped her head. The four ponies came to the edge of the Everfree forest, close to where Fluttershy’s cottage was. Blank had told her that he would appear to her as a black pegasus with a white mane. All they had to do now, was wait. Perched on a tree branch, Blank Canvas watched the Crusaders with the binoculars Gizmo had given to him for his second birthday. With this, Blank was able to see almost as far as his brother Eagle Eye. Alright, he thought to himself. Now that they’re here, I should transform into the pony I’m going to be for a while. I hope this works. I've never made myself younger before. Well... technically older depending if I'm going by the actual time I've been alive. Anyway, it's show time. Blank concentrated on an ideal form that would allow him to not only blend in with the Crusaders, but also allow him to be himself. He began to shrink as green flames consumed his body. When the flames dissipated, his insectoid features were gone. He was now a young pegasus colt with a black coat and a silver mane. Now that he looked like a pony version of himself, blending in with the Crusaders would be as easy as taking love from a foal. "Cutie Mark, here I come!" he said out loud has he stretched his wings and flew towards his new friends. Applebloom watched as a black pegasus who she assumed was blank-flank like herself, descend from the sky and land right next to her. The colt gave a quick wink indicating that he was Blank Canvas. "Hello everypony," he said a little too enthusiastically, "I'm Blank Canvas. Apple Bloom tells me that you're all are having a rough time getting your cutie marks. Let me tell you I've been dying to get mine for years. Well today’s the day everything changes. All five of us are going to get our cutie marks before Celestia even starts to bring the sun down." Applebloom chuckled sheepishly. Woah, these gals aren’t used to introductions. I thought changelings were suppose to be masters of deception. They’re going to get suspicious if I don't... "That's awesome!" Shouted Scootaloo. "My names Scootaloo by the way and this here is Sweetie Bell and Babs Seed." The two mares said hello and smiled at Blank. "I'm sorry about tackling you yesterday. My eyes must have been playing tricks on me." "It's quite alright. Anyway if we are going to do this, I need to know all about you girls. Tell me a little bit about yourselves and I'll tell you a little bit about me. Once we all feel ready, we'll get started." Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and Featherweight watched as they got acquainted with the changeling they planned to expose. "It's him." said Diamond. "I heard him say his name was Blank Canvas. That's the same name the changeling told that little redneck yesterday." "Uhh... Diamond." said Featherweight. "Apple Bloom’s neck is yellow. I think you're confusing her with her brother Big Macin-" "I was making fun of her for being an uneducated farmer, you idiot!" "But haven't you two been going to the same school for about-" "She talks funny so she's stupid. Sweet Celestia, you’re dull." "I thought you said you were interested in me... I'm so confused." "Will you two keep it down," shushed Silver Spoon. You two keep talking, we'll miss something important." "Diamond scowled at Featherweight and brought her attention back to Applebloom and the gang." "So as you can see," continued Blank. "My family travels, but I think we finally found a place where Dad can finish his silly book. So now that's out of the way, who want's to get their Cutie Mark first? How about you Scootaloo. "Wait a minute... what about everypony else? We normally try doing things together." "Yes but that's the problem; instead of helping each other find something you’re all good at, you've been conducting scheme after scheme. The chances of all of you getting a chicken catching or a journalism cutie mark is very unlikely. Being a blank flank, I've read a lot of books about pon - I mean cutie marks. Apparently there are two things that need to happen before anypony can get a cutie mark. The first requirement is that they need recognize their special talent. Performing the talent isn't good enough, you need to recognize that this is one thing you are really good at. The second thing that needs to happen is that you need to realize the joy you feel when applying your talents. Once this happens, our cutie marks should appear." At least their’s should. I think mine might work a bit differently. Wasp's special talent is killing ponies with those morphing hooves of his, which is symbolised by his bee cutie mark. He literally stings his opponent's without hesitation. But I know for a fact that deep down he’d rather avoid killing altogether. Then again, maybe his passion is more about fighting then killing. Great, now I'm losing my train of thought. I need to focus on helping these filly’s so I can finally get my cutie mark. "So that's why I think we should start with you, Scootaloo. You told me how much you like doing tricks on your scooter. Heck, you even have the word 'scooter' in your name. If you could perform one of your tricks you've been telling about while taking in everything I've just said, I'm positive you'll get your Cutie Mark." "And I know exactly what trick I want to tryout!" she declared. “I'm going to jump Carousel Boutique" It's got to be my destiny It's got to be my destiny “Are you sure you not nervous about doing this?” said a concerned Babs. “Absolutely sure!” Scootaloo lied as she held onto the hooflbars nervously. She glared at the crooked ramp Applebloom had made for her before focusing Then turned her attention the large structure that she was supposed to jump over. She felt a comforting hoof pat her shoulder “Just belive in yourself Scootaloo,” replied Blank Canvas. Remember that Sweetie Belle has mattresses all over this area in case your fall.. Don’t forget you use your wings to help you jump, then let gravity do the rest.” While the disguised changeling supported his new friend, two mischievous teens watched them from a nearby tree. “So how are we going to expose his disguise?” aske Silver Spoon. “I figure the only way to get rid of his disguise is through magic.” “But neither of us can use magic Diamond.” “Don’t worry, I sent Feather. Wait for him to steal something from that witch in the forest while. These losers are helping the chicken.” “What chicken? I don’t see. Oh you mean Screwdaloo. Diamond Tiara, you are genius.” Her lips curled to form a devilish smirk. “I know. In the meantime, let’s toss some these acorn's while at her once she’s up in the air. That will surely set her off balance. As the fillies plotted their misdeeds, Scootaloo continued to stare at the ramp just 40 meters ahead of her. Why am I so nervous? Why did I suggest this in the first place? I can’t get my cutie mark doing... No! I can’t think like that. I have to believe in myself. I learned to control my fear along time ago. Today I leave my chicken days behind me. I know if Rainbow Dash were here right now, she would have told me get started already. It’s now or never Scootaloo. Cutie Mark here I come. She pushed the back hoof against the ground and propelled herself using both her back hoof and her wings. She approached the ramp at an extreme speed until. She drove over the ramp and took off. Although she had gotten a lot of altitude from her jump, she wasn’t afraid to use her wings to give her and her scooter some extra altitude. In her mind, so long as the hooves were touching the scooter, it wasn’t cheating All the while Blank and the crusaders cheered their friend arm as she her scooter rose above the Boutique. Then Blank saw something in the distance. While his eyes weren’t as sharp as his brother Eagle Eye, he could make out a small barrage of acorns head towards the airborne pegasus. He gasped in horror. If he didn't act fast, Scootaloo will fail and possibly get severely injured. His first instinct was to revert back to his true form and catch them in midair, but he stopped himself. Instead he jumped into the air flew towards the acorns. He made sure to circle the ramp so as to not interrupt Scoots. Just the acorns were about to hit her, swooped in and shielded the Scootaloo. He lost control of his his wings and crashed into one of the mattresses. Meanwhile Scootaloo had made it passed the center of the building, just a few feet blew the roof. Time seemed to slow down for her has she took everything in. “I’m doing it!” she said in her head. “This is awesome. I knew I was good but never this good. This has to be it. This has to be my special talent. If only you could see me now Dash.” She folded her wings and lifted her back legs from the scooter while still hanging on. She spun it around and performed a dazzling 360 that made the other’s crusaders cheer. As Scoots passed the building, she steady her scooter placed her legs back on. The scooter made contact with the cobble path and landed. The momentum of the jump sent Scootaloo zooming at an incredible speed. As their friend sped into the the streets of ponyville thought Apple Bloom could make out something purple on her friends flank just before she disappeared. “Holy cow!” shouted the yellow mare. “That was amazing.” “Um cuz,” replied Babs with a tone of concern. She point her hoof at the black pegasus on lying on mattress. “I think we should check if Blank is alright ” “Oh my gosh!” cried Sweetie Bell. “I’m sorry Blank, we were all just really caught up in what Scoots was doing.” Blank go himself up and grunted. However, his frown quickly turned into a cocky smile “Relax, my skin is harder than it looks.” Oh the irony of my words. Apple Bloom brushed the sweat off her forehead in relief . “Well that’s good to hear. By the way, why did you decide to fly during Scoots trick? Also, how exactly did you fall? Did you forget how your wings work or something?” “Nah. A saw a barrage of acorns heading towards Scoots and I flew in to intercept them body. Could one of you girls check if I got a bodyguard related cutie mark for that?” “Sorry,” said Babs. “Your flanks still blank, Blank.” “Ha Ha Ha,” he said sarcastically. “I see what you did there. You trying to do stand up or something Babs.” Babs eyes sparkled for a minute. “You know what, that gives me an idea. A Lot of us city folk love stand up comedy. We should try me next?” “But where did those acorns come from?” asked Apple Bloom. Blank shrugged. If I had to guess, I say that somepony really doesn’t want them getting their marks. I sense sabotage. I shouldn't let them worry about it. I’ll just have put my training to use and be extra vigilant next time. Bodyguard cutie mark here I come. “I GOT MY CUTIE MARK EVERYPONY!” shouted a figure riding towards them. “I FINALLY GOT I!” Scootaloo road in a circle around her friends before stopping to show off her newly acquired cutie mark in the shape of a purple helmet. “It looks just like the one on my head. I finally know my calling. I’m going to start a whole new daredevil sport involving pegasi and scooters. It’s going to be so radical.” She pumped her fist in the air, and everypony around her clapped their hooves. All the while the wide grin she had since finishing her stunt never left her face Scoots pointed her right hoof at Blank. “I owe it all to you man. Thank you for helping me find my calling. Who knows how long it would have taken to realise what was right their front all along.” Blank sheepishly rubbed the back of his head with hoof and smiled. “It was nothing. I never felt helping ponies could feel so good. This sure beats working for the...” He stop himself mid sentence. His eyes opened wide. Scoot tilted her head curiously. “You have a job? But didn’t you just move here, and aren’t you the same age as us? Most of us are either thirteen or twelve. How could you possibly have a job?” Think fast! Think fast! Think fast! Think fast! Just then the door’s to the boutique to reveal one of the angriest unicorns he had ever seen in his life. Blank could have sworn that steam was blowing out of the mares ears. “Sweetie Bell, What in Tartarus are all these mattresses surrounding my shop.” Sweetie Bell gasped. “Tell us some other time Blank, we need to get out of her before she kills us.” Although changelings rarely felt fear, Blank was absolutely terrified. The expression of terror could be seen on the other as well. They ran for their lives as Sweeties enraged sister chased after them. After their failed attempt to sabotage the crusaders, Diamond and Silver snuck to the edge of the Everfree forest to meet up with Feather Weight. They waited a whole five minutes before they finally saw pegasus fly out of the forest with a brown bag in between his teeth. “So!” said Diamond who grinned evilly. “Were you able to steal anything that could help us expose the bug?” “I didn’t steal anything. I told Zecora their might be a changeling in ponyville and she gave me this weird grenades.” “What you were supposed to... Hang on. What’s a grenade?” “Zecora said that they are little balls you throw that explode. Some of the more militant kingdoms out their use these sort of things. But this one isn’t meant to kill. It’s filled with a natural gas Zecora made using ingredients from the forest. It nullifies a changeling’s ability to shape shift.” He flew up in the air and began and cleared. “Throw this ball at the one you suspect. For if he be you a changeling, you will most certainly detect.” “Ugh.” moaned Silver. “I can’t believe you talked to that freak, but at least you got us these.” “I think I heard them say something about going Town Hall.” said Diamond. “Get your camera Feather Brain and pass Silver the grenades. It time for us to expose this bug to the rest of Ponyville.” The Mark of a Leader The Mark of a Leader After escaping the wrath of Rarity, Blank and the four filles head toward town hall to beg to help out the next Crusader to focusing on getting. Along the way, they ran into Pinkie Pie who was carrying large cart full of electrical equipment. Blank groaned silently to himself. Not her again. “Hi there Blank. I just started reading that I supposed to help you set up for Sweetie's Consort.” “Wait, are you saying were all trapped in sompony’s story?” asked Applebloom. “I think we should just ignore her and let her help.” replied Sweetie. “Remember when she found that TV and found our entire lives were all just part of a show?” Recalling the aforementioned event, Apploom nodded in agreement and continued towards their destination. All the while the Pink Pony skipped happily as she carried her cart full of lighting and sound equipment. With Pike’s help, they transformed the inside of city hall into a giant pop concert. Lights and speakers were spread all around the auditorium. Upon the stage rested a lone microphone which Sweetie felt was begging her to sing to it. When the they were all done Pinkie tapped whispered something into Blank’s ears. “I’m afraid I have to leave now but I want to give you a little advice without spoiling the ending.” “Listen lady.” mumbled Blank. “I might be an ex assassin, but don’t think I won’t come out of retirement if you keep trying to convince me that all this is just some stupid story some dumbass pony wrote.” Pinkie Pie smiled as if she were completely obvious to Blank’s threat on her life. “Ok, let me at least give you a clue. Sometimes cutie marks appear even when you're not aware of your talent. While in most cases ponies get their marks when they realise their talents, some of them don’t realise that they realised their talents until they realised their talents.” The hybrid changeling face hoofed and groaned. “That doesn’t even make any sense, if you realise something, it should be apparent to you.” “Don’t worry,” she said cheerfully “It will all make sense later on.” Diamond, Silver, and Featherweight watched from the bushes as Pinkie hopped out of the doors of city hall and bounced off through the streets of Ponyville. Diamond grinned evilly as she looked at the grenade in Featherweight’s hooves. “So all I have to do is pull the pin and throw it inside?” she asked Featherweight with a grin as she rubbed her hooves against the surface of the device. Featherweight shrugged. “That’s what Zecora said. Anyways listen, I’ve been having second thoughts about this. If we're not careful we could end up hurting Sweetie Bell and her friends.” Diamond tightened her eyes and slapped Featherweight with her hoof. “Listen here.” she yelled as she gritted her teeth. “If you don’t give me that grenade and take that damn picture, I’ll make sure you’ll remain single all the way through college. Now hoof it over!” Featherweight lifted his head up and glared at Diamond. “You don’t understand. There’s a lot of sensitive equipment in that could easily start a-” Before he could finish Diamond yanked the grenade out of his hooves. “Get your camera ready.” she said in annoyance. “Those cutie mark crybabies and their monster friend are going down, and there's no way I’m going to let you ruin this for me.” Diamond turned her head to face Silver while she pointed her hoof at Featherweight. “Make sure he does his job!” she order authoritatively. “I’m going to wait till Sweetie is on stage. When I give the signal, I’m going to burst in and toss the grenade. When the monster shed it’s skin, make sure Featherweight captures the fear on it’s face when it’s exposed.” Blank sat in the front row of chairs next to Babs and Applebloom, eagerly waiting Scootaloo to usher Sweetie Bell onto the stage. The lights of Town Hall had were turned off except for the ones Pinkie Pie set up for the show. This way, Scootaloo could pretend as if this was a real live concert. The plan was genius, Black was sure the Sweetie Bell would get her cutie mark just like Scootaloo. But for how long do have to keep this up. His mind drifted into a spiral of negative thinking. It’s true that I feel good helping these young ponies do what I’ve spent a good two years of my life trying to do, but what if it doesn’t pay off. He shook his as he a realization struck him. Even if I remain a blank flank forever, at least I’ve proven to myself that I no longer need the hive for a sense of purpose. Now I can finally atone for the wrongs I’ve committed as an assassin, and help these kinds out. And if I keep at it, maybe one day it will come? By Volucris, I know that day will happen. I just know it. Uplifted by his thoughts he smiled to himself. However, he pushed all thoughts of himself aside the moment he saw Scootaloo canter on to the stage and toward the microphone. “Fillies and Gentlecolts” she shouted expectantly. “Put your hooves together for the one and only…” Wham Before she could finish ushering Sweetie on to the stage Scootaloo lost her focus as the front door slammed open. “What do you want?!” she said angrily into the microphone. The Apple cousins and Blank turned their heads to see who had open the door. From their seats they could see Diamond Tiara strolling down the allies with a green colored egg in her mouth. Her eyes sparkled with devious intent. Ignoring Scootaloo she got on two legs and spat the egg onto her right hoof. “Eat this changeling!” she shouted pointing a free hoof at Blank. With all her strength she tossed the egg straight in the air in Blanks direction. However, Diamond didn’t arch her throw properly and put way too much power into her throw. The egg sored way over Blank Canvas’s head and smashed straight into one of the light fixtures Pinkie had set. As soon as the grenade smashed through the glass, the electricity ignited the gas and caused the entire thing to explode. Everypony watched in horror as the flaming stage light fell right on top of the stage curtain. Within moments, the entire curtain lit up in a crimson blaze and the entire stage along with it. Without thinking Scootaloo spread her wings just has the fire was about to reach her. She was about to air dive into Applebloom when everypony heard something coming from back stage. “Ahhhhhhh!” Screamed Sweetie Bell from backstage, who had been eagerly awaiting for the okay from Scootaloo. Everypony listened in horror as Sweetie Bell screamed. Panic swept through Diamond’s body like a hurricane. For all she knew, Sweetie Bell was already burning to death and it was all her fault. Her eyes widened as she thought about the possibly of being sent to jail for mareslaughter and arson. Afraid for her own well being, she galloped down the aisle and out the door. Through the opened door Silver and Featherweight stared in horror. “I told you that thing was Flammable!” Feather shouted. “Come on Silver we need to get to the firehouse now!” “But we’ll never make in time.” Silver said with tears in her eyes. Featherweight pointed a hoof at her. “If you don’t come with me and somepony gets hurt, I’m telling the police everything.” With that, the two of them bolted toward the fire department. Meanwhile, the crusaders helplessly watched the dancing flames continue to consume the stage. All the while Sweetie Bell continued to scream. “I’m trapped!” She shouted. “I…can’t” she stuttered. “All I wanted… was… my cutie mark.” Blank couldn’t take it any longer. Pony or not, this mare was his friend now, and Volucris be damned if he let her die just to keep his cover. Knowing full well what had to be done he turned to Applebloom and smiled. “I want you to know that I had fun while it lasted.” he said with as a tear trickled down his cheek and green flames surrounded him. Babs and Scootaloo stepped back in shock while Applebloom merely gasped. Having returned into his true form and age, Blank turned his head back to the stage as his wings started to hum. As his body ascended he clenched his eyes and fangs together and gathered energy for his his spell. His horn surged with all the love and gratitude the crusaders had shown him. Hopefully it would be enough. The room was blinded by the light of his magic as he drew his very being into the spell. When he finally opened his eyes, they were glowing with bright white light. Furiously, he tilted his head forward and large beam of concentrated magic shot from his horn at the stage. The crusaders watched as the changeling magic merged with the fire and consumed it, the flames turning bright green before disappearing completely. When the spell and smoke cleared, they all saw a petrified Sweetie Bell huddled in the corner and crying. Blank slowly floated towards her, not caring that his form had been exposed. The white maned changeling landed next to the filly and lifted her up with his front hooves. He then carried her off the stage with two legs. “You!” shouted Scootaloo who pointed an accusing hoof. “It wasn’t a dream after all. You were the changeling from yesterday.” She then turned to glare at Applebloom. “And you knew all along, didn’t you.” “He not bad anymore.” rebuttled Applebloom. “And for the record, he’s saved three of us at least once over these past few days. Listen, what Blank is isn’t important. What matter is we make sure Sweetie is alright.” “Cuz has a point.” Babs said as she hesitantly trotted over to help Blank carry Sweetie. It took her a moment to get over the her anxiety of getting with in legs reach of a changeling but she managed to push it aside for the time being.” They laid Sweeti down on one of the chairs. “Are you ok?” asked Blank. “You inhaled a lot of smoke back there. Do you feel dizzy?” “A little.” replied Sweetie as she let out a soft cough. “But I think I’ll be ok. Thank you for saving me Blank, that is, if that’s really your name.” “It is.” he said as soft smile formed on his face. “I’m sorry this had to happen. I just thought if I disguised myself as a young colt and joined your club I would get my cutie mark. I’m a hybrid you see, so like you I’m supposed to have a special talent or superpower like the rest of my kind. Like the four of you, I’ve been picked on my other members of the hive. I thought helping all of you would help me not only repent for my sins, but help me unlock my true purpose.” Blank backed away from Sweetie and drooped his head down. “But all I did was let that Tiara wearing brat come after you. I’m glad you're all safe and I’m glad you all got your cutie marks. It makes me feel really good that I was able to motivate you all, and I feel like you are all alot closer to getting your mark than I am. However, now that my cover is blown, I’m afraid I’ll have to leave.” “Wait Blank.” cried Apple Bloom. “Look at your flank real quick. I’m pretty sure that wasn’t there yesterday.” Blank turned his head and gasped. His green eyes glistened with joy and his mouth widened with excitement. He didn’t know when it had appeared. Was it when he Scootaloo got her mark or was it after he save Sweetie? All he knew was that there upon his flank was a golden torched with a bright green flame at the top.” “Sweet Volucris in changeling Heaven!” he shouted. “I have it! My mark! My talent. My power! My purpose in life!” He flew up in the air and smiled. “The pink one’s nonsensical clue finally made sense to him. From the moment he helped Scootaloo achieve what she had fought so hard and so long to achieve, a part of him realised what his true talent was.” “What does it mean?” asked Sweetie. “What’s your talent?” “My heart tells me that I’m a leader.” he said. “Someone who can inspire others to reach their full potential. Man, those jerks in the hive really could have used a changeling like me on their side. To bad I’m not never talking to them again.” He turned his head towards one of the windows and blasted it. Green flames washed over him as he turned back into a teenage colt. “It won’t belong before other ponies find out what happened here. I’m going to go find myself a new home, but I promised I’ll come back someday if you still need me. For now I believe that each of you have what it takes to discover yourselves.” As he flew towards the window, Applebloom shouted to him from above. “Thank you for everything Blank!” she yelled as tears began to trick down her smiling face. “We promise that the next time we meet, CMC will be blank flanks no more!” The hybrid smiled down and saluted his friends. “I look forward to that day.” he declared just before flying through the window and disappearing behind a ray of sunshine. “He didn’t even get mad at me for not trusting him.” said Scootaloo as she lowered her head in regret, eyes tearing slowly. “Even after he saved my life and gave me my mark. I’m a lousy friend.” Babs put a hoof around Scootaloo. “Don’t worry. When we see him again you will have another chance.” Sweetie laid in her chair still worn out from the shock of the fire and all the smoke she inhaled. “Guys, I need one of you to carry me. We need to get out of here before.” Just then the doors flung open. Mayor Mare and two firefighters burst in. “Oh Sweet Celestia!” yelled the frantic Mayer. “This is going take one heck of tax increase to fix.” The End
Blank Canvus Meets The CMCThree years ago, Queen Chrysalis injected her eggs with a serum containing stolen pony DNA. The goal was to create changelings that could be creative enough to come up with original disguises. While most of her offspring did not survive the hatching process, the 13 that managed to hatch were beyond her expectations. They were all born with the Queen's green eyes, and they each had colorful manes. They also lacked any of holes in their bodies- one of the most distinct aspects of changeling. Not only were these rascals more creative, they each showed more personality than that of a regular drone. They were a creative and talented bunch, but as they progressed through their childhood, an interesting development happened. 12 changelings started to show unique talents and abilities that no normal changeling should have been capable of. These abilities were as simple as inventing, and as extraordinary as insatiability and mind control. Not only that, they all started to get cutie marks. That is all but one. There was one changeling that did not have special talent or power; therefore no cutie mark. While the other 12 gave themselves names to match their skills and abilities, they referred to him as Black Cavas. He was an outcast of the group, being average in everything he did. During their short childhoods, many of the most egoistical of the 12, especially Flash, ridiculed Black. Now at age three, and an adult, Blank Cavas lives among the ponies, doing bidding for the hive whenever he is needed. Despite being given most of the grunt assignments you expect from your average drone, Black always put his all into the job. When out in the field, he had a chance to prove what he could do, with the hope that the next mission would bring him closer to his goal. But it never came. 4 months before the key events of Wasp Friendship Express The changeling spy sat in his seat and gazed out the window, sighing as he passed the beautiful scenery. The green of the grass was as bright as his true eye color. He sighed, as he looked away from the window and thought about his current cover story. His current disguise was that of an Earth pony named Florist; who was looking to sell flowers at the town market. "Florist the Florist," he said to himself. "Man, even my cover names stink." Once he got his "character," he began going over the details of his mission. His objective was to steal a book from some stupid library. Even though he knew who the librarian was and what she was capable of, this was still the easiest assignment he had ever gotten. All he had to do was check out the book and skip town. After all he had done, all the targets he'd killed, and all the crap he had stolen, this was the best they could do? This was complete and utter donkey crap. "All I want is to be some changeling," he mumbled to himself. "Everyone has cool powers and talent's and I have nothing. I'm no better than my drone cousins." He let out another deep sigh. He began to think about all the people who bullied him. Brain, Blitz, Cleaver, Venom, hell even freaking Gizmo and Wasp had made fun of him from time to time; thought not nearly as bad as the others. Even as an adult changeling of three, he felt completely unappreciated. What I wouldn't give to be part of those awesome joint operations I've heard so much about. Than maybe everyone could see him in action. Ah, who am I kidding, I'm nothing to those losers. He didn't understand. Blank was part of the same experiment as everyone else. Deep down, was he really worthy of being considered one of them, or was his lack of holes and colorful mane, the only thing keeping him from being just a regular drone? "We are now reaching Ponyville Station!" cried one of the train attendants, "Next stop, the Crystal Empire." He got off the train, walked outside. On the platform, he gazed at the little town. It was full of happy ponies of all races, living together in what they would call "Perfect Harmony". However, the thing that caught his attention was not the ponies themselves, or the rustic homes in which they lived. No; what caught his attention where the bright and colorful pictures which adorned their flanks. It reminded him how each was unique, an individual that was part of the community at large. It depressed the hell out of him. Well, maybe work can keep me busy and stop my brooding at least for a little bit. Who knows, maybe I'll get a book stealing Cutie Mark this time around. "Yo cuz, you don't actually think this will work do you." "Of course it will Babes. All’s I’ve gotta do is get a running start, and I'll gets’ my hang gliding cutie mark fa sure." "Ya, and if she is in any real danger, I'll fly in and save her." "And Twilight's been teaching me some healing spells. If she does get hurt, I can heal her and get my first aid cutie mare." "Um Sweetie Bell. I'd rather not get hurt doing this." "Oh right sorry." "Ok everypony, here goes nothing." The pre-teen ponies on the hill watched as Apple Bloom jumped off and began to glide towards the town. "What do you mean I can't check out a book!" shouted Blank/Florist at the pink maned pony in front of him. "Sorry, mister but as of right now we don't know if Twilight an alicorn or not because it's not Feb .16th yet. So until then, future Twilight can't checkout any books for you. She asked me to keep an eye on the place while she's at Canterlot studying. Or is she on a Royal mission of some kind? One or the other, depending on whether she has wings or not." I recognize this pony from the hives records. She is supposed be pretty out there. I should tell the drones in intelligence to change that to *down right out of her freaking mind. I'll just have to go plan B and steal the book when it gets late.* "That make perfect sense, I'll just go now." "Wait!" shouted Pinkie. "You have to save Apple Bloom and join the Cutie Mark Crusaders." Black tilted his head and stared at the strange pony. "What the hells an Apple- "SOMEPONY HELP ME! AH CAN'T STOP IT!" In the sky above, a yellow earth pony was gliding out of control. Blank looked up and turned his head to Pinkie Pie. "How the hell did you know that was going to happen?" "I'm in a library silly; I read it in this book. I think this the part where I close my eyes for a few second only to find that your not - She opened her eyes only to find that Blank/Florist was no longer there. "Ooh Ooh that was the part," she said enthusiastically. "I better read on to see what happens next," " Scootaloo!" shouted Apple Bloom. "HELP ME." "I can't keep up, the wind is too strong. Awh man why did RD have to go joining the Wonderbolts?" Apple Bloom’s hang glider was out of control, being pulled every which way by the strong winds. Up and down, up and down; left and right, left and right. At this point she was getting nauseas, but she knew what would happen if she let go. Soon the hang glider was getting a little to close to the Ghastly Gorge, which looked as ghastly as ever. "This is it; I’m going to die a blank flank. I'm so sorry Applejack and Big Macintosh." Just as she was about to crash into the depth of the Gorge, her hang glider started to grow dark green and straightened itself out. She looked up and saw a black figure with a glowing green horn. She couldn't make the figure out due to the sun, but whatever it was, she was sure it was the one who was rescuing her. "Who are you?" she asked, but the creature did not answer as she found herself floating closer and closer to the ground. When she was about 10 feet above the ground, the green light disappeared and she crashed into a tree branch. As she fell to the ground, she saw what she thought was Scootaloo air tackling the black figure. "You’re not going to lay a hoof on my friend you filthy changeling." said Sccootallo as the two of them wrestled in the air. "You, don't understand! I'm- Pow She punched Blank in the head only to find that she couldn't break through his armored shell. As she withdrew her hoof in pain, Black put his training to use and knocked Scootaloo out using the pressure points on here neck. Smack He caught her body with his magic before she had a chance to fall. He flew to a small clearing and laid a sleeping Scootaloo right beside a rock. Well this is just great. I get the easiest assignment of my life, and I fail in less than an hour after I arrive in town. Butterfly-Wings, I suck. Why did I even try to save that stupid pony anyway? Why did he try to save that stupid pony anyway? He was a changeling spy, a born and bred killer, and an experienced terrorist. Why did he stick his neck out for someone who by all accounts was nothing more than food to his kind? "Because that's how the author wrote your character silly? You see this is the part where you realize you actually care about the well-being of others and learn to-" "Leave me the hell alone you weird.... pink ... freak! I mean mother of the hive, you are so freaking annoying. Just leave before I push you off that cliff." Pinkie Pie just smiled as he if didn't just threaten to kill her. "You can't do that silly, because that would be to dark, and that's not one of the tags listed." "I don't care about the damn tags just go away." "Fine, fine, I'll go, man you’re a really grumpy main character." With that, Pinkie Pie hopped off back to the library. "Great now my covers blown, but maybe that lunatic was right. Hurting others has never made me happy. I only did it because I thought it would help me find out who I was. All my life I just wanted to be like the others, with their powers and their talents." He flew up to the sky and gazed out at the gorge. "Today's the day I put my changeling half behind me and embrace all that am. From this day forward, I'm deserting. Goodbye, and good riddance!" "Oh sweet Celestia, what have ya done ta Scootaloo." Black Canvas turned around to see the yellow filly she had saved staring at him. They both stared at each other, gazing at one another’s appearance, "Are you sure you saw her fly here Silver Spoon." said Diamond Tiara "Most definitely, I can't believe that these girls are almost thirteen and they still don't have their cutie marks." She stopped and paused for a minute. Oh wait, yes I can." They both laughed and did their secret flank shake by smashing their butts together. "Wait Silver Spoon," Diamond said as she pointed a hoof. "I think I see that loser Apple Bloom over in that open field, let's go see if she's alright, than we can laugh at her." "What if she is alright?" "We'll laugh at her anyway?" They laughed, smashed their flanks together again and hid behind a bush so they could see and hear everything that was going on. "Is that what I think it is?" asked Silver Spoon. Apple Bloom stared at the creature before her. It was very strange. For one thing, it looked exactly like one of the changelings she saw when she was a little filly. It was a black insect with a black shell and insect wings. However, part of her wasn't sure, because the creature was lacking the one feature that every changeling had. The creature had no holes anywhere. Also, he had a snow white mane and a short snow white tail. All the changelings she saw at the wedding had barely had any manes at all, and what little they did have was all gray. She looked at her unconscious friend and mustered up her courage. "Ah asked ya a question, what did ya do ta mah friend." "Take it easy kid," replied the creature, "Your friends will be alright. She attacked me while I was trying to save you. If didn't do something, we both would have fallen into that gorge over there. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to leave this town before any of you ponies have me arrested." His wings began to hum as he prepared himself to fly when Apple Bloom called out to him "Wait, Mister, I have a question for ya." Black spun around and turned to face the young pony. "What is that?" "Are ya a changeling? If so, ya are the strangest changeling I've ever seen, but I think ya might also be the nicest. Also ,why did ya save me?" Blank was curious. This pony was actually paying attention to him. No wait; this pony was admiring him. He didn't think the Pink Pony was going to report him, and looks like this pony wouldn't either. Maybe it would be alright to stay for a little while. "Well to answer both of your questions, I'm kind of part pony. It's a long story with a lot of disturbing details, but that's why I don't look like most of my kind. As for why I saved ya, us hybrids tend to be more free spirited than the rest of the hive, though if you met some of the others you'd never be able to tell. Quite frankly, I don't really know why I saved you. I guess I acted like any pony your kind would do." He paused for a moment "Now can I ask you a quick question before I get arrested or something." Apple Bloom laughed "Ya don't have ta worry about that, there aint many police officers in ponyville. In fact, I'm not even sure if we got's a police station, but sure, go ahead." "What were you doing just now." Apple Bloom rubbed her neck with her hoof and looked down at the ground. "Well about that, me, ma two friends, and ma cousin Babs don't got no Cutie Marks. We get teased a’ lot because of that, especially from that bitch Diamond Tiara." For a moment, the two of them thought they heard a rustling in the bushes, and it sounded like a baby animal. What they didn't know, was that it was actually Sliver Spoon trying to keep Diamond from pouncing on Applebloom for her shocking insult. "Anyway as I was saying, awhile back we formed this Club to help ponies who don't got their Cutie Marks. We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and we’re on a quest to find out who we are. Of course, sometimes our crusading gets us into trouble." This is sounding way too familiar. I'm older than them and they still have the same problem as me. Well technically I'm only older metal and physically because only three years old, but still this is really trippy. Wait, maybe this is a sign from the changeling goddess Volucris* "You know, most of my kind, - the hybrids- have cutie marks to, but I've been a blank flank most of my life. You know, just before you came here, I was thinking about deserting my hive in order to go soul searching. Do you think maybe I could help you with the club for a little bit. I'll disguise myself as a young colt so your friends don't get scarred. "Good idea, than people won't think you’re a foal snatcher or a pervert while you’re hanging out with us." Blank blushed, and was completely speechless for about five seconds. "This girl is a surprise a minuet" he Thought to himself. "I didn't hear a no anywhere in that sentence so that means you must have said yes. I'm going to go camp in the woods and get into character, I'll find you guys in town tomorrow. "Wait ya don't have camp out in the woods. Ma family owns the largest apple plantation in the county; you can hide in the barn. Blank shook his head. "Thanks but I'd rather not risk it, I'll come find you sometime tomorrow." "Ok, I'm Apple Bloom by the way. What's your name?" The changeling nodded and smiled, "Canvas, Blank Canvas."
five characters in search of a cutie markThe next day at school, all Apple Bloom could think about was the mysterious changeling that saved her life and knocked out Scootaloo. Like she promised, she only told her friends that she was saved by black pegasus that just moved into town. Thankfully, Apple Bloom was also able to convince scootaloo that the changeling she saw was just the pegasus and nothing more. After their teacher, aptly named Droll Voice, had dismissed them, the four fillies ran off to meet Apple Bloom’s mysterious new friend. As they made their way, however, they were followed by a very ticked off Diamond and Silver who were hell-bent on exposing the Crusaders. To help them do so, they had recruited the help of an old friend, or pawn in this case. "Are you sure you'll go out with me to the dance if I do this?" asked Featherweight. "Of course I will," lied Diamond Tiara. "Everypony knows how much of a stud you are; now hurry your flank so we can get a picture of the changeling." With that the three ponies followed the Crusaders. "So Apple Bloom, do you think this pony will be mad at me for what I did to him yesterday?" asked Scootaloo. "Well, he was kind of upset, but I think he'll get over it." replied Apple Bloom. "Just be sure not go tackling him mid-flight anymore unless you’re both trying to get your sky wrestling cutie marks." "I bet a sky wrestling cutie mark would look so bad-ass," said Babs "I want a sky wrestling cutie mark..." replied Sweetie Bell. "But you don't have any wings" Apple Bloom pointed out. "Oh right," sighed Sweetie as she drooped her head. The four ponies came to the edge of the Everfree forest, close to where Fluttershy’s cottage was. Blank had told her that he would appear to her as a black pegasus with a white mane. All they had to do now, was wait. Perched on a tree branch, Blank Canvas watched the Crusaders with the binoculars Gizmo had given to him for his second birthday. With this, Blank was able to see almost as far as his brother Eagle Eye. Alright, he thought to himself. Now that they’re here, I should transform into the pony I’m going to be for a while. I hope this works. I've never made myself younger before. Well... technically older depending if I'm going by the actual time I've been alive. Anyway, it's show time. Blank concentrated on an ideal form that would allow him to not only blend in with the Crusaders, but also allow him to be himself. He began to shrink as green flames consumed his body. When the flames dissipated, his insectoid features were gone. He was now a young pegasus colt with a black coat and a silver mane. Now that he looked like a pony version of himself, blending in with the Crusaders would be as easy as taking love from a foal. "Cutie Mark, here I come!" he said out loud has he stretched his wings and flew towards his new friends. Applebloom watched as a black pegasus who she assumed was blank-flank like herself, descend from the sky and land right next to her. The colt gave a quick wink indicating that he was Blank Canvas. "Hello everypony," he said a little too enthusiastically, "I'm Blank Canvas. Apple Bloom tells me that you're all are having a rough time getting your cutie marks. Let me tell you I've been dying to get mine for years. Well today’s the day everything changes. All five of us are going to get our cutie marks before Celestia even starts to bring the sun down." Applebloom chuckled sheepishly. Woah, these gals aren’t used to introductions. I thought changelings were suppose to be masters of deception. They’re going to get suspicious if I don't... "That's awesome!" Shouted Scootaloo. "My names Scootaloo by the way and this here is Sweetie Bell and Babs Seed." The two mares said hello and smiled at Blank. "I'm sorry about tackling you yesterday. My eyes must have been playing tricks on me." "It's quite alright. Anyway if we are going to do this, I need to know all about you girls. Tell me a little bit about yourselves and I'll tell you a little bit about me. Once we all feel ready, we'll get started." Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and Featherweight watched as they got acquainted with the changeling they planned to expose. "It's him." said Diamond. "I heard him say his name was Blank Canvas. That's the same name the changeling told that little redneck yesterday." "Uhh... Diamond." said Featherweight. "Apple Bloom’s neck is yellow. I think you're confusing her with her brother Big Macin-" "I was making fun of her for being an uneducated farmer, you idiot!" "But haven't you two been going to the same school for about-" "She talks funny so she's stupid. Sweet Celestia, you’re dull." "I thought you said you were interested in me... I'm so confused." "Will you two keep it down," shushed Silver Spoon. You two keep talking, we'll miss something important." "Diamond scowled at Featherweight and brought her attention back to Applebloom and the gang." "So as you can see," continued Blank. "My family travels, but I think we finally found a place where Dad can finish his silly book. So now that's out of the way, who want's to get their Cutie Mark first? How about you Scootaloo. "Wait a minute... what about everypony else? We normally try doing things together." "Yes but that's the problem; instead of helping each other find something you’re all good at, you've been conducting scheme after scheme. The chances of all of you getting a chicken catching or a journalism cutie mark is very unlikely. Being a blank flank, I've read a lot of books about pon - I mean cutie marks. Apparently there are two things that need to happen before anypony can get a cutie mark. The first requirement is that they need recognize their special talent. Performing the talent isn't good enough, you need to recognize that this is one thing you are really good at. The second thing that needs to happen is that you need to realize the joy you feel when applying your talents. Once this happens, our cutie marks should appear." At least their’s should. I think mine might work a bit differently. Wasp's special talent is killing ponies with those morphing hooves of his, which is symbolised by his bee cutie mark. He literally stings his opponent's without hesitation. But I know for a fact that deep down he’d rather avoid killing altogether. Then again, maybe his passion is more about fighting then killing. Great, now I'm losing my train of thought. I need to focus on helping these filly’s so I can finally get my cutie mark. "So that's why I think we should start with you, Scootaloo. You told me how much you like doing tricks on your scooter. Heck, you even have the word 'scooter' in your name. If you could perform one of your tricks you've been telling about while taking in everything I've just said, I'm positive you'll get your Cutie Mark." "And I know exactly what trick I want to tryout!" she declared. “I'm going to jump Carousel Boutique"
It's got to be my destiny It's got to be my destiny “Are you sure you not nervous about doing this?” said a concerned Babs. “Absolutely sure!” Scootaloo lied as she held onto the hooflbars nervously. She glared at the crooked ramp Applebloom had made for her before focusing Then turned her attention the large structure that she was supposed to jump over. She felt a comforting hoof pat her shoulder “Just belive in yourself Scootaloo,” replied Blank Canvas. Remember that Sweetie Belle has mattresses all over this area in case your fall.. Don’t forget you use your wings to help you jump, then let gravity do the rest.” While the disguised changeling supported his new friend, two mischievous teens watched them from a nearby tree. “So how are we going to expose his disguise?” aske Silver Spoon. “I figure the only way to get rid of his disguise is through magic.” “But neither of us can use magic Diamond.” “Don’t worry, I sent Feather. Wait for him to steal something from that witch in the forest while. These losers are helping the chicken.” “What chicken? I don’t see. Oh you mean Screwdaloo. Diamond Tiara, you are genius.” Her lips curled to form a devilish smirk. “I know. In the meantime, let’s toss some these acorn's while at her once she’s up in the air. That will surely set her off balance. As the fillies plotted their misdeeds, Scootaloo continued to stare at the ramp just 40 meters ahead of her. Why am I so nervous? Why did I suggest this in the first place? I can’t get my cutie mark doing... No! I can’t think like that. I have to believe in myself. I learned to control my fear along time ago. Today I leave my chicken days behind me. I know if Rainbow Dash were here right now, she would have told me get started already. It’s now or never Scootaloo. Cutie Mark here I come. She pushed the back hoof against the ground and propelled herself using both her back hoof and her wings. She approached the ramp at an extreme speed until. She drove over the ramp and took off. Although she had gotten a lot of altitude from her jump, she wasn’t afraid to use her wings to give her and her scooter some extra altitude. In her mind, so long as the hooves were touching the scooter, it wasn’t cheating All the while Blank and the crusaders cheered their friend arm as she her scooter rose above the Boutique. Then Blank saw something in the distance. While his eyes weren’t as sharp as his brother Eagle Eye, he could make out a small barrage of acorns head towards the airborne pegasus. He gasped in horror. If he didn't act fast, Scootaloo will fail and possibly get severely injured. His first instinct was to revert back to his true form and catch them in midair, but he stopped himself. Instead he jumped into the air flew towards the acorns. He made sure to circle the ramp so as to not interrupt Scoots. Just the acorns were about to hit her, swooped in and shielded the Scootaloo. He lost control of his his wings and crashed into one of the mattresses. Meanwhile Scootaloo had made it passed the center of the building, just a few feet blew the roof. Time seemed to slow down for her has she took everything in. “I’m doing it!” she said in her head. “This is awesome. I knew I was good but never this good. This has to be it. This has to be my special talent. If only you could see me now Dash.” She folded her wings and lifted her back legs from the scooter while still hanging on. She spun it around and performed a dazzling 360 that made the other’s crusaders cheer. As Scoots passed the building, she steady her scooter placed her legs back on. The scooter made contact with the cobble path and landed. The momentum of the jump sent Scootaloo zooming at an incredible speed. As their friend sped into the the streets of ponyville thought Apple Bloom could make out something purple on her friends flank just before she disappeared. “Holy cow!” shouted the yellow mare. “That was amazing.” “Um cuz,” replied Babs with a tone of concern. She point her hoof at the black pegasus on lying on mattress. “I think we should check if Blank is alright ” “Oh my gosh!” cried Sweetie Bell. “I’m sorry Blank, we were all just really caught up in what Scoots was doing.” Blank go himself up and grunted. However, his frown quickly turned into a cocky smile “Relax, my skin is harder than it looks.” Oh the irony of my words. Apple Bloom brushed the sweat off her forehead in relief . “Well that’s good to hear. By the way, why did you decide to fly during Scoots trick? Also, how exactly did you fall? Did you forget how your wings work or something?” “Nah. A saw a barrage of acorns heading towards Scoots and I flew in to intercept them body. Could one of you girls check if I got a bodyguard related cutie mark for that?” “Sorry,” said Babs. “Your flanks still blank, Blank.” “Ha Ha Ha,” he said sarcastically. “I see what you did there. You trying to do stand up or something Babs.” Babs eyes sparkled for a minute. “You know what, that gives me an idea. A Lot of us city folk love stand up comedy. We should try me next?” “But where did those acorns come from?” asked Apple Bloom. Blank shrugged. If I had to guess, I say that somepony really doesn’t want them getting their marks. I sense sabotage. I shouldn't let them worry about it. I’ll just have put my training to use and be extra vigilant next time. Bodyguard cutie mark here I come. “I GOT MY CUTIE MARK EVERYPONY!” shouted a figure riding towards them. “I FINALLY GOT I!” Scootaloo road in a circle around her friends before stopping to show off her newly acquired cutie mark in the shape of a purple helmet. “It looks just like the one on my head. I finally know my calling. I’m going to start a whole new daredevil sport involving pegasi and scooters. It’s going to be so radical.” She pumped her fist in the air, and everypony around her clapped their hooves. All the while the wide grin she had since finishing her stunt never left her face Scoots pointed her right hoof at Blank. “I owe it all to you man. Thank you for helping me find my calling. Who knows how long it would have taken to realise what was right their front all along.” Blank sheepishly rubbed the back of his head with hoof and smiled. “It was nothing. I never felt helping ponies could feel so good. This sure beats working for the...” He stop himself mid sentence. His eyes opened wide. Scoot tilted her head curiously. “You have a job? But didn’t you just move here, and aren’t you the same age as us? Most of us are either thirteen or twelve. How could you possibly have a job?” Think fast! Think fast! Think fast! Think fast! Just then the door’s to the boutique to reveal one of the angriest unicorns he had ever seen in his life. Blank could have sworn that steam was blowing out of the mares ears. “Sweetie Bell, What in Tartarus are all these mattresses surrounding my shop.” Sweetie Bell gasped. “Tell us some other time Blank, we need to get out of her before she kills us.” Although changelings rarely felt fear, Blank was absolutely terrified. The expression of terror could be seen on the other as well. They ran for their lives as Sweeties enraged sister chased after them. After their failed attempt to sabotage the crusaders, Diamond and Silver snuck to the edge of the Everfree forest to meet up with Feather Weight. They waited a whole five minutes before they finally saw pegasus fly out of the forest with a brown bag in between his teeth. “So!” said Diamond who grinned evilly. “Were you able to steal anything that could help us expose the bug?” “I didn’t steal anything. I told Zecora their might be a changeling in ponyville and she gave me this weird grenades.” “What you were supposed to... Hang on. What’s a grenade?” “Zecora said that they are little balls you throw that explode. Some of the more militant kingdoms out their use these sort of things. But this one isn’t meant to kill. It’s filled with a natural gas Zecora made using ingredients from the forest. It nullifies a changeling’s ability to shape shift.” He flew up in the air and began and cleared. “Throw this ball at the one you suspect. For if he be you a changeling, you will most certainly detect.” “Ugh.” moaned Silver. “I can’t believe you talked to that freak, but at least you got us these.” “I think I heard them say something about going Town Hall.” said Diamond. “Get your camera Feather Brain and pass Silver the grenades. It time for us to expose this bug to the rest of Ponyville.”
The Mark of a Leader The Mark of a Leader After escaping the wrath of Rarity, Blank and the four filles head toward town hall to beg to help out the next Crusader to focusing on getting. Along the way, they ran into Pinkie Pie who was carrying large cart full of electrical equipment. Blank groaned silently to himself. Not her again. “Hi there Blank. I just started reading that I supposed to help you set up for Sweetie's Consort.” “Wait, are you saying were all trapped in sompony’s story?” asked Applebloom. “I think we should just ignore her and let her help.” replied Sweetie. “Remember when she found that TV and found our entire lives were all just part of a show?” Recalling the aforementioned event, Apploom nodded in agreement and continued towards their destination. All the while the Pink Pony skipped happily as she carried her cart full of lighting and sound equipment. With Pike’s help, they transformed the inside of city hall into a giant pop concert. Lights and speakers were spread all around the auditorium. Upon the stage rested a lone microphone which Sweetie felt was begging her to sing to it. When the they were all done Pinkie tapped whispered something into Blank’s ears. “I’m afraid I have to leave now but I want to give you a little advice without spoiling the ending.” “Listen lady.” mumbled Blank. “I might be an ex assassin, but don’t think I won’t come out of retirement if you keep trying to convince me that all this is just some stupid story some dumbass pony wrote.” Pinkie Pie smiled as if she were completely obvious to Blank’s threat on her life. “Ok, let me at least give you a clue. Sometimes cutie marks appear even when you're not aware of your talent. While in most cases ponies get their marks when they realise their talents, some of them don’t realise that they realised their talents until they realised their talents.” The hybrid changeling face hoofed and groaned. “That doesn’t even make any sense, if you realise something, it should be apparent to you.” “Don’t worry,” she said cheerfully “It will all make sense later on.” Diamond, Silver, and Featherweight watched from the bushes as Pinkie hopped out of the doors of city hall and bounced off through the streets of Ponyville. Diamond grinned evilly as she looked at the grenade in Featherweight’s hooves. “So all I have to do is pull the pin and throw it inside?” she asked Featherweight with a grin as she rubbed her hooves against the surface of the device. Featherweight shrugged. “That’s what Zecora said. Anyways listen, I’ve been having second thoughts about this. If we're not careful we could end up hurting Sweetie Bell and her friends.” Diamond tightened her eyes and slapped Featherweight with her hoof. “Listen here.” she yelled as she gritted her teeth. “If you don’t give me that grenade and take that damn picture, I’ll make sure you’ll remain single all the way through college. Now hoof it over!” Featherweight lifted his head up and glared at Diamond. “You don’t understand. There’s a lot of sensitive equipment in that could easily start a-” Before he could finish Diamond yanked the grenade out of his hooves. “Get your camera ready.” she said in annoyance. “Those cutie mark crybabies and their monster friend are going down, and there's no way I’m going to let you ruin this for me.” Diamond turned her head to face Silver while she pointed her hoof at Featherweight. “Make sure he does his job!” she order authoritatively. “I’m going to wait till Sweetie is on stage. When I give the signal, I’m going to burst in and toss the grenade. When the monster shed it’s skin, make sure Featherweight captures the fear on it’s face when it’s exposed.” Blank sat in the front row of chairs next to Babs and Applebloom, eagerly waiting Scootaloo to usher Sweetie Bell onto the stage. The lights of Town Hall had were turned off except for the ones Pinkie Pie set up for the show. This way, Scootaloo could pretend as if this was a real live concert. The plan was genius, Black was sure the Sweetie Bell would get her cutie mark just like Scootaloo. But for how long do have to keep this up. His mind drifted into a spiral of negative thinking. It’s true that I feel good helping these young ponies do what I’ve spent a good two years of my life trying to do, but what if it doesn’t pay off. He shook his as he a realization struck him. Even if I remain a blank flank forever, at least I’ve proven to myself that I no longer need the hive for a sense of purpose. Now I can finally atone for the wrongs I’ve committed as an assassin, and help these kinds out. And if I keep at it, maybe one day it will come? By Volucris, I know that day will happen. I just know it. Uplifted by his thoughts he smiled to himself. However, he pushed all thoughts of himself aside the moment he saw Scootaloo canter on to the stage and toward the microphone. “Fillies and Gentlecolts” she shouted expectantly. “Put your hooves together for the one and only…” Wham Before she could finish ushering Sweetie on to the stage Scootaloo lost her focus as the front door slammed open. “What do you want?!” she said angrily into the microphone. The Apple cousins and Blank turned their heads to see who had open the door. From their seats they could see Diamond Tiara strolling down the allies with a green colored egg in her mouth. Her eyes sparkled with devious intent. Ignoring Scootaloo she got on two legs and spat the egg onto her right hoof. “Eat this changeling!” she shouted pointing a free hoof at Blank. With all her strength she tossed the egg straight in the air in Blanks direction. However, Diamond didn’t arch her throw properly and put way too much power into her throw. The egg sored way over Blank Canvas’s head and smashed straight into one of the light fixtures Pinkie had set. As soon as the grenade smashed through the glass, the electricity ignited the gas and caused the entire thing to explode. Everypony watched in horror as the flaming stage light fell right on top of the stage curtain. Within moments, the entire curtain lit up in a crimson blaze and the entire stage along with it. Without thinking Scootaloo spread her wings just has the fire was about to reach her. She was about to air dive into Applebloom when everypony heard something coming from back stage. “Ahhhhhhh!” Screamed Sweetie Bell from backstage, who had been eagerly awaiting for the okay from Scootaloo. Everypony listened in horror as Sweetie Bell screamed. Panic swept through Diamond’s body like a hurricane. For all she knew, Sweetie Bell was already burning to death and it was all her fault. Her eyes widened as she thought about the possibly of being sent to jail for mareslaughter and arson. Afraid for her own well being, she galloped down the aisle and out the door. Through the opened door Silver and Featherweight stared in horror. “I told you that thing was Flammable!” Feather shouted. “Come on Silver we need to get to the firehouse now!” “But we’ll never make in time.” Silver said with tears in her eyes. Featherweight pointed a hoof at her. “If you don’t come with me and somepony gets hurt, I’m telling the police everything.” With that, the two of them bolted toward the fire department. Meanwhile, the crusaders helplessly watched the dancing flames continue to consume the stage. All the while Sweetie Bell continued to scream. “I’m trapped!” She shouted. “I…can’t” she stuttered. “All I wanted… was… my cutie mark.” Blank couldn’t take it any longer. Pony or not, this mare was his friend now, and Volucris be damned if he let her die just to keep his cover. Knowing full well what had to be done he turned to Applebloom and smiled. “I want you to know that I had fun while it lasted.” he said with as a tear trickled down his cheek and green flames surrounded him. Babs and Scootaloo stepped back in shock while Applebloom merely gasped. Having returned into his true form and age, Blank turned his head back to the stage as his wings started to hum. As his body ascended he clenched his eyes and fangs together and gathered energy for his his spell. His horn surged with all the love and gratitude the crusaders had shown him. Hopefully it would be enough. The room was blinded by the light of his magic as he drew his very being into the spell. When he finally opened his eyes, they were glowing with bright white light. Furiously, he tilted his head forward and large beam of concentrated magic shot from his horn at the stage. The crusaders watched as the changeling magic merged with the fire and consumed it, the flames turning bright green before disappearing completely. When the spell and smoke cleared, they all saw a petrified Sweetie Bell huddled in the corner and crying. Blank slowly floated towards her, not caring that his form had been exposed. The white maned changeling landed next to the filly and lifted her up with his front hooves. He then carried her off the stage with two legs. “You!” shouted Scootaloo who pointed an accusing hoof. “It wasn’t a dream after all. You were the changeling from yesterday.” She then turned to glare at Applebloom. “And you knew all along, didn’t you.” “He not bad anymore.” rebuttled Applebloom. “And for the record, he’s saved three of us at least once over these past few days. Listen, what Blank is isn’t important. What matter is we make sure Sweetie is alright.” “Cuz has a point.” Babs said as she hesitantly trotted over to help Blank carry Sweetie. It took her a moment to get over the her anxiety of getting with in legs reach of a changeling but she managed to push it aside for the time being.” They laid Sweeti down on one of the chairs. “Are you ok?” asked Blank. “You inhaled a lot of smoke back there. Do you feel dizzy?” “A little.” replied Sweetie as she let out a soft cough. “But I think I’ll be ok. Thank you for saving me Blank, that is, if that’s really your name.” “It is.” he said as soft smile formed on his face. “I’m sorry this had to happen. I just thought if I disguised myself as a young colt and joined your club I would get my cutie mark. I’m a hybrid you see, so like you I’m supposed to have a special talent or superpower like the rest of my kind. Like the four of you, I’ve been picked on my other members of the hive. I thought helping all of you would help me not only repent for my sins, but help me unlock my true purpose.” Blank backed away from Sweetie and drooped his head down. “But all I did was let that Tiara wearing brat come after you. I’m glad you're all safe and I’m glad you all got your cutie marks. It makes me feel really good that I was able to motivate you all, and I feel like you are all alot closer to getting your mark than I am. However, now that my cover is blown, I’m afraid I’ll have to leave.” “Wait Blank.” cried Apple Bloom. “Look at your flank real quick. I’m pretty sure that wasn’t there yesterday.” Blank turned his head and gasped. His green eyes glistened with joy and his mouth widened with excitement. He didn’t know when it had appeared. Was it when he Scootaloo got her mark or was it after he save Sweetie? All he knew was that there upon his flank was a golden torched with a bright green flame at the top.” “Sweet Volucris in changeling Heaven!” he shouted. “I have it! My mark! My talent. My power! My purpose in life!” He flew up in the air and smiled. “The pink one’s nonsensical clue finally made sense to him. From the moment he helped Scootaloo achieve what she had fought so hard and so long to achieve, a part of him realised what his true talent was.” “What does it mean?” asked Sweetie. “What’s your talent?” “My heart tells me that I’m a leader.” he said. “Someone who can inspire others to reach their full potential. Man, those jerks in the hive really could have used a changeling like me on their side. To bad I’m not never talking to them again.” He turned his head towards one of the windows and blasted it. Green flames washed over him as he turned back into a teenage colt. “It won’t belong before other ponies find out what happened here. I’m going to go find myself a new home, but I promised I’ll come back someday if you still need me. For now I believe that each of you have what it takes to discover yourselves.” As he flew towards the window, Applebloom shouted to him from above. “Thank you for everything Blank!” she yelled as tears began to trick down her smiling face. “We promise that the next time we meet, CMC will be blank flanks no more!” The hybrid smiled down and saluted his friends. “I look forward to that day.” he declared just before flying through the window and disappearing behind a ray of sunshine. “He didn’t even get mad at me for not trusting him.” said Scootaloo as she lowered her head in regret, eyes tearing slowly. “Even after he saved my life and gave me my mark. I’m a lousy friend.” Babs put a hoof around Scootaloo. “Don’t worry. When we see him again you will have another chance.” Sweetie laid in her chair still worn out from the shock of the fire and all the smoke she inhaled. “Guys, I need one of you to carry me. We need to get out of here before.” Just then the doors flung open. Mayor Mare and two firefighters burst in. “Oh Sweet Celestia!” yelled the frantic Mayer. “This is going take one heck of tax increase to fix.” The End
