Chapters Within the throne room of the changeling hive, a high drone soldier, (high drone being equivalent to the rank of Captain), was in the middle of his trial. His crime, staying at the hive while almost all other changelings had gone into battle against the city of Canterlot only to have failed to capture it. The high drone itself was quite high in honor and his devotion was to the hive and every changeling who lived inside it, minus one queen due to her lack of leadership, but still forced himself to show respect for her even if she didn't deserve it. His armor consisted of a changeling helmet, thick chest plate, armored boots and some sort of necklace hidden within the chest plate. The changeling began to speak to the queen who was acting as judge (and likely, executioner) about why he thought the attack on Canterlot failed.
"You forget your highness, that persistence may be the key to success. But to only those who are properly prepared for what lies ahead".
"Are you saying that our attack on the city of Canterlot failed, because I didn't properly plan"?!
"No your highness, I wish only to point out that one of your main objectives was keeping the accursed Alicorn from her husband. Surely you must realize your fatal error by allowing them to be together when they where able to summon their protective love shield which forced your armies to retreat back here".
The jury on the high drones left side chatted amongst themselves seeing how the changeling had made a fair point. The queen however, was not going to let a pathetic drone get the better of her.
"And how do you know that"? her voice had become cold and harsh as though she despised the poor changeling. The jury stopped talking and listened to what the queen had to say. "You didn't even engage in battle, you stayed here, at the hive. Like a coward". She spoke her last sentence with a hint of disgust. The high drone did not take lightly to being called a coward.
"You dare to dishonor me? Foul wretch"! The high drone thought trying to keep in his anger. "With respect, it has been your lack of leadership that has forced the hive to its perish .More than any other queen we have had has".
"What are you suggesting"? asked the queen, not liking where this was heading.
"I propose that you allow your daughter to claim leadership of the hive, her ideas are more... thought through than many of your own".
Chrysalis's daughter sat on the right side of her mother. She looked like any other changeling seeing how her body had not matured into a queen just yet. She looked up to her mother with hopeful eyes while Chrysalis glared at her with a stare which simply said "You are not ready". She looked down away from her mother. Her once hopeful eyes had now become sad eyes. Chrysalis then turned back to face the High drone and spoke.
"You will not order me to stand down worthless changeling. You are just a high drone. And are just as pathetic as the soldiers under your command". The Changeling was now furious. Not only had she insulted his own honor, but now his own soldiers which was almost a third of the hives population. Not caring about the fact that she could easily kill him, he wasn't going to let this stand.
HOW DARE YOU"! His voice was now so loud, it could have given the traditional Canterlot voice a run for its money. "WITHOUT THE MIGHT OF THE DRONES, YOU WOULD COWER AND PERISH LIKE OUR ENEMIES! YOU ARE NOTHING COMPARED TO THE STRENGTH OF THE REST OF THE HIVE"! The jury and drones were highly impressed and admired his courage, speaking to the queen like that, but they knew he had now gone too far.
The queen did all she could to hold in her anger against the high drone for his outburst. The hall went silent for nearly a whole minute until Queen Chrysalis's horn started to glow its usual sickly green color, her magic focused on the changeling and hoisted him up in the air by his throat while forcing his wings at his sides so he couldn't use them to support his body so that he would choke. He couldn't even use his magic seeing how the queen was too powerful for him. He hopelessly struggled, trying to breathe. The queens horn flashed again bringing the changelings face closely up to her own face. Every pony feared for the poor changelings life, even the queens daughter who wanted to help him. Unfortunately she wasn't powerful to deal with her mother either.
"Then let us see how brave you are when I banish you into pony territory. What do you say to that"? She calmly asked letting him use his wings to support his body before he lost consciousness from lack of air. Expecting the changeling to start begging for her to reconsider, she was given an answer that she was not prepared for.
"I say that this only proves your fear of changelings thinking for themselves. My soldiers are more worthy than you give them credit for. If you truly believe that banishment will keep not only my own soldiers, but yours in line as well, then your days as queen are limited". The high drone spat out with venom in his eyes.
This got Chrysalis to think for a moment, was he right? would banishment result in rebellion? she thought hard about his words and finally decided his fate.
"I have no need to worry about that, I am the queen! The power of love I acquired from that fool Shining Armour will be enough for me to fend off the entire hive with ease! Therefore, I have no hesitation to banish you to the Everfree forest! Farewell number 011"!
With those final words, Chrysalis's horn flashed once more causing the High drone to be engulfed in a bright green light which teleported 011 from the throne room.
011 was blinded by the green light that surrounded his body. He shielded his eyes with his hole filled hoof. 15 seconds passed and the green light faded. He removed his hoof from his eyes to find himself standing within the middle of the Everfree forest itself, Filled with dangerous creatures and everlasting darkness.
"Foolish queen. Her punishments will be her downfall". He muttered to himself. "At least I'm alone". As soon as he had finished that sentence however, a loud roar erupted not too far away from his position. "Or perhaps not".
011 was rooted to the ground with fear. He could tell that the sound had come from something big. "What type of creature could make such a horrifying sound like that"? 011 thought to himself as he slowly looked round in the direction of the roar hoping to catch a glimpse of this monster. Unfortunately, the thick trees and shadows made it impossible for the changeling to see even 25 feet in front of him. 011 started to grow nervous. Even though he couldn't see anything, he felt as though he was being watched by multiple pairs of eyes.
"Perhaps it would be wise to fly out of this place as quickly as I can. Whatever is after me likely cannot fly. At least I have that advantage". The changeling suggested to himself. There was only one problem wring with that plan. Changeling wings always produced a loud buzzing noise. If there was indeed something stalking him, then it would likely hear 011 and try to attack him before he could escape and would end up with him getting seriously injured or worse. Deciding that flying and risk dying would be better than doing nothing and dying gruesomely, he got ready and flapped his wings as hard and as fast as he could, hoping to get as much distance between himself and the ground.
He could hear heavy footsteps charging straight for him. Not daring to look back, he concentrated all of the power in his body onto his wings. Another roar sounded off from now less than 30 feet away. Whatever was after him, it was only seconds away as the footsteps got louder and louder. He had almost made it above the trees. "Come on! COME ON"! 011 yelled in his head. He felt the leaves of the top branches on his hooves. Then the second he felt he had escaped, something had bitten his right wing. 011 screeched, he had never felt such pain before in his life. The creature had got him and dragged 011 back below the tree level before flailing the poor changeling round like a dog would with a bone until *RIIIPPP*!
011 fell to the ground with a heavy thud. He quickly stood up and turned to check his back, and feared the worst for his wings, his right wing was still attached to his back luckily enough. The bad news however, was that it now had a rip right down the middle and the top part of his wing was bitten off by some sort of large reptile, due to the shape of the teeth marks, meaning that flying away was no longer an option. He quickly turned around to see what had attacked him.
Before 011, just mere meters away was a lions head. But not just any lions head, this one was twice the size of a normal lions head. A Manticore perhaps? The creature growled softly, followed with a "Baaaa" noise. "Baaaaa!? what kind of lion goes baaa"? thought 011 with a puzzled look on his face. "Unless, its... oh no"! 011 suddenly then realized that the animal before him was more than it seemed. A second head rose above the lion's own, but it wasn't another lion. It was a goat, with the same size head as the lion, its thick horns were large enough to impale three changelings in a row. But there was still more to come, within seconds of the goats head appearing, a humongous snake rose several meters in the air behind both of the other animals. Its fangs were sharper than spears, especially since a small part of 011's wing was hanging loosely from one of them which explained what had happened to the torn off tip of 011's right wing.
Suddenly without warning, the lion jumped into the air and attacked! 011 barely jumped to his left and managed to avoid the paws of the lion as they smashed into the ground where he once stood. 011 readied his magic and turned round to face the lion and noticed that he was no longer standing before 3 different creatures, just one. He was now viewing the right side of the lion and saw that the goats head had no body of its own and was attached to the lions back and that the snake was in fact, the tail of the beast. The size of the monster, minus the snake tail, was more than double 011's size
"A Chimera! Ha broshieb'rak"! 011 muttered in his own specie's language. The monster turned to face the changeling just in time to see a green bolt fly out of his horn and hit into the chimera's front paws with enough force to cause the beast to trip, lions face first, into the ground. Using this to his advantage, 011 ran deeper into a lighter part of the forest. He knew that he was no match for a fully grown chimera, even though he was a high drone, he would have still needed at least 10 other changeling soldiers under his command to defeat it. 011 suddenly heard the head of the lion roar as loud as it could. He knew that he had just made it mad as he turned round to see that the chimera, no more than 40 meters away and gaining,was now violently knocking down all the trees between itself and 011. Even with the trees in the way of the chimera, it was still too fast for the changeling and it would only be a matter of time until it caught up to him.
Realizing that he would be unable to outrun the monster, 011 spun round deciding that he had no choice but to face it. He aimed his horn at the monster and firing a second bolt into its shoulder. The bolt caused the chimera to flinch but had no other effect, its hide was too tough and was still heading his way. 011 fired a third bolt, then a fourth, fifth, sixth, some of his shots hitting his target while other shots made contact with the trees around it leaving burn marks. The chimera was now within swiping distance and while still receiving a number of green bolts to its shoulders and face, it raised one of its front paws with its deadly claws sticking out ready to slash the changeling in half. 011 immediately stopped firing his green bolts from his horn and ducked at the last second as the clawed paw smashed into a nearby tree. 011 quickly ran underneath the chimera feeling a small sharp pain on his back. It seemed that the tip of the chimeras claws had managed to cut clean through his Armour, allowing the claws to also slice through a small part of his back. 011 ignored the cut and damaged Armour and fired more bolts at its soft belly while he had the chance. This caused the chimera to roar once more, this time in pain. 011 emerged from underneath the rear end of the monster only to have a giant snake head lunge itself into the ground slightly missing 011 by inches making 011 jump back underneath the chimeras hind legs. The snake head pulled itself back up from the ground and looked 011 right in the eye. 011 showed no fear. High drones rarely feared anything and he wasn't going to let some overgrown worm prove otherwise. 011's horn began to glow again and the chimera tail was encased with a green aura. The huge snake was unable to break free from the spell but 011 knew he couldn't hold it for long, especially since he had to also avoid being stepped on by the back legs of the chimera which had no idea what was happening behind it. 011 quickly ran out from under the chimera and tied its tail around the closest tree he could find as fast as he could, before the rest of the chimera could figure out what was happening. Less than three seconds later and the serpent had been tied round a thick tree in a fancy looking knot as though it was a rope. "Least that is one problem out of the way" The high drone though, still staring at the struggling snake head. The goat head turned round and saw the snake tied to the tree. It turned back round and bleated to the lion head as though it was trying to communicate with it. Before 011 could do anything else, the chimera brought all four of its legs together and raised the front of its body into the air. It was now standing on its two back legs. The size of the Chimera had become gigantic. It was now more than five times 011's size. 011 turned round and saw two sharp horns suddenly appear in front of his face. He now had to deal with the goat head, which was now only a meter above him, because it was now trying to impale his head with its horns. 011 was now forced to get out of the second head's way and headed back to the side of the chimera were he was met by the chimeras left paw swinging towards him. With no time to get out of the way, the paw slammed into his stomach, putting a small dent into his chest plate and cutting a small part of his right hoof thanks to the claws. The force of the chimeras paw caused the poor changeling to fly backwards and collide head first into a tree quite hard. The force of his head hitting the tree would have been enough to kill him if he wasn't wearing his helmet but it wasn't enough to keep him from being knocked out. He was bleeding from his back and his front right hoof where the claws of the chimera had hit him.
The chimera couldn't walk forward to inspect its prey, which just lay on the ground with a small twitch from its back hoof, due to it's snake head still struggling to escape from the tree. The body of the chimera then carefully turned around to place its two front paws onto each side of the tree, just above its snake-tail, and crushed the top half of the tree which made it easier to snap it off and free the snake. The only problem for the snake was that it was still tied up in a knot. The chimera lowered its front paws and allowed itself to walk on four legs once again and cautiously walked over to 011, growling. The changeling was still knocked out and was unable to run or attack. The chimera's lion head brought itself closer to the changeling so that it was inches away from 011's body. It looked at 011 carefully and saw no movement. Believing that it had killed the changeling, the chimera then headed back though the area where it had chased 011. With its only injuries being a bruised stomach, the chimera heads grunted in satisfaction. All except for the snake tail which was hissing in anger, obviously frustrated that it couldn't untie itself.
A full minute had passed after the chimera had left and 011 gained consciousness. He didn't have enough energy to stand thanks to his cut front hoof. 011 knew he wasn't going to make it out of the forest alive, not with the injuries he was now suffering from, and not by himself. Feeling as though he was about to loose consciousness again, he managed to pull the necklace from his chest plate with his magic. It turned out that the necklace actually was a locket. A golden, heart shaped locket. 011 opened it, looked inside for a moment and spoke.
"Sally, I'm sorry. I've failed you"...
011 closed the locket and placed it back inside the chest plate. He then rested his head on the ground and closed his eyes, but not before seeing a small white rabbit heading his way.
Author's Note
I just want to point out that the fight scene gave me some trouble to write so if there are any parts which do not make sense, please tell me and I'll try to fix it when I can.
Sneaking around the cottage
011 opened his eyes and sat up. He looked around and saw that he was no longer in the Everfree forest. Instead, he lying on a sofa in a small wooden house, a cottage by the looks of it. Had a pony saved him? Only ponies lived in wooden type structures to the best of 011's knowledge.
"How is this possible"? He thought to himself looking round, viewing the birdhouses and mouse holes that plagued the room. "Why would a pony help me? A changeling? Do they not hate us still"? Deciding he would find out the answers to his questions later, 011 got of off the sofa as quiet as he could in case the pony, or ponies, were still around. He rubbed his head carefully with his injured hoof and grumbled to himself. He looked around again before realizing something. He rubbed his head again and discovered his helmet was missing. He quickly turned round to view his back and hooves only to have the same result. All of his Armour had been removed and more to his concern, so had the locket. He also had white bandages covering his injuries from the chimera fight.
He slowly limped across the room and into what seemed to be the kitchen, which was filled with vegetables, bird seed and several other types of pet food, it was almost as though the owner needed to feed a dozen different kinds of animals. But apart from that, there was nothing else to be found.
011 proceeded back into the main room and checked outside. It was now night time meaning he had been unconscious for at least six hours. At least it would have been easier to check the house. "As long as ponies sleep at night that is". 011 thought to himself, unsure if ponies were nocturnal or not. The only remaining rooms that he had yet to check were upstairs. 011 then proceeded slowly upstairs trying not to make a noise. As soon as he had made it to the top of the stairs, he found three doors. He checked the first one which was a bathroom. He then checked the second room which turned out to be a small cupboard which contained some cleaning supplies and a mop that fell on top of 011's face the second as he had opened the door. He pushed the mop off of his face and into the back corner of the cupboard before closing the door.
011 had now spent five minutes trying to cross the floor and had just made it up to the halfway point. Even using his magic was too risky because of the noise his horn made when preparing to cast a spell of any kind. He tried to take another step and raised his hoof slowly and lowered it down in front of him as gently as he could. Another creak sounded off and the pony flipped over again. 011's face was sweating. He was managing to get closer and closer to his items.
A few more steps later, which had taken another five tension-filled minutes, and he could easily reach his helmet. He stuck his right injured hoof out to try and grab it. He almost had it. But before he had even touched it, a yellow hoof lightly smacked him on his nose. He moved his eyes upwards fearing he had been caught, and after all that sneaking around too. But almost as if fate was watching over him, the pony was still asleep. Her arm must have just fallen out of the bed. 011 calmed down, relieved she hadn't woken up. He carefully grabbed her hoof with his own and placed it back on the bed. Glad to have that out of the way with, he grabbed his helmet and slid it onto his head. He couldn't risk putting the rest of the Armour on seeing how it would have taken too much time, time which he did not have. Good thing the Armour was a liability. The locket on the other hoof, was not. However, there was just one slight problem. The locket wasn't with the Armour. It was nowhere in sight. "Where is it"?! thought the panicking changeling looking all round the room, checking every inch of the room until his eyes rested upon a white rabbit standing in the doorway, possibly the same one he saw in the Everfree forest before he lost consciousness, holding the locket in both its hands. "Well..." The rest of that sentence ended in changeling language, but there was no doubt that it was something rude.
The rabbit hopped over to the changeling in seconds. It was too light to make any creaks in the floor boards which 011 found kind of mocking. Especially since it had taken him more than ten long, agonizing minutes just to cross one side of the room, not to mention the fact that his bandaged hoof was still injured. The changeling then carefully lowered himself down to the rabbits level once it had reached him. "Hello". whispered the changeling trying to be friendly to the rabbit and being careful not to wake the pony at the same time. "May I have that locket back"? He said with a weak smile. The rabbit looked at the locket in its hands, looked back at 011 and shook its head. 011 pulled his head back, surprised the rabbit could actually understand him, he then lowered his head again. "Come on, just hand it over" 011 whispered with a hint of frustration in his voice. The rabbit shook its head once more and turned round, not wanting to face him anymore as though it was messing with him on purpose. The changeling sighed "This calls for drastic measures". He thought with regret. 011 then gave the rabbit the biggest smile he could manage without choking said something that most changelings would never dare say in their own lifetimes. "Pleeeaaaase"? said 011, hoping that this would be enough to help win the rabbit over. 011 may have looked friendly at that moment on the outside but inside however, the changeling felt as though he wanted to throw up for saying such a foul sounding word. The rabbit looked over his shoulder, saw the smiling face and stuck his tongue out at 011.
The changeling was now gritting his teeth, finding it hard to believe a simple house pet could make him suffer so much as to not only refuse him his most prized possession, but to also force him to utter a word, that changelings frown upon, in vain. "Enough of this"! he said with still gritted teeth as he made a grab for the locket. The rabbit quickly ran under the changelings legs before 011 could touch him, hopped onto the bed, and hopped on top of the sleeping pony's chest and raised his foot up into the air, ready to bring it down on the pony's sleeping body. The changeling turned round and saw what the white nuisance was about to do. "Don't you dare". Said 011 narrowing his eyes, trying to keep his voice quiet so that he didn't wake the pony himself. "Don't...you...dare"! And as though those words were the rabbits cue to act, the rabbit brought its foot down, multiple times on its owner. "You did". Said 011 with disbelief.
Author's Note
I've decided to change the upload dates for each chapter. Instead of one chapter every two weeks, it will now be changed to two weeks maximum seeing how one chapter every two weeks may seem too long.
The Yellow pony's eyes slowly opened and saw the white rabbit on her chest. The rabbit jumped off of her, allowing her to sit up. She had a pink mane and her eyes were blue. "Oh, Angel! Is everything okay"? She said in a soft voice. The rabbit, now known as angel, just pointed to the changeling which was still having trouble believing how much trouble the little rabbit had caused him. 011 quickly got over it, remembering that the pony had seen him, and took a battle stance as though expecting the yellow pony to attack.
"You're awake!! Oh thank goodness, I was so worried"! The changeling was caught off guard by her words. He softened up and stared at her as though she had gone insane. "What do you mean worried"? 011 asked with a hint of confusion. The pony got out of her bed and stood before him. It turned out she was a pegasus pony. "Well, its just that I've never really treated a changeling before. I didn't know how to take care of you, as least not properly, and I thought you were going to...". The yellow pegasus said becoming more worried with each word she spoke. She then calmed down, not wanting to finish her sentence. "But at least you're safe now. That's all that matters". The yellow pegasus started to walk over to the changeling who saw this as some form of attack and backed away into a battle stance once again, not sure if this pegasus was either super friendly or just crazy. The pegasus stopped, thinking that she was scaring him. "Oh dear, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to frighten you".
011 decided that now would have been a good time to flee but first, he wanted some answers. "What do you expect to gain by keeping me alive. Do the Canterlot guard pay well for healthy prisoners"? The pegasus looked a little worried. "Perhaps you plan on hurting me yourself as an act of personal revenge due to the Canterlot incident possibly"? The pony now felt a little sorry for the changeling as it threw out more wild accusations. "Did you save me just so you could kill me yourself? Tell me"! Said the changeling almost ready to strike the pony where she stood. But what the pegasus said made him soften up.
011 sighed and lowered his battle stance, seeing that it was obvious that she didn't mean any harm to come to him. He even allowed the pegasus to continue walking up to him and before he had time to react, she pulled him into a hug. The changeling felt a little odd about being hugged by a creature that should despise him but accepted the hug and after a few seconds had passed, he decided to break it. "Thanks, I guess". said 011 who just stared at the ground. "You're quite welcome". replied the still smiling pegasus. But deep down, the changeling still didn't trust her. Not completely anyway. Fluttershy soon figured this out with her next sentence. "My name is Fluttershy. What's yours"? 011 looked up from the ground, eyed the pegasus, and spoke. "Look, I understand that you may have saved me from dying, but I have been through too much with ponies to truly trust you. And if I ever do decide to trust you, I will only then call you by your name". Fluttershy looked a little upset. He still didn't trust her after she had saved his life. The changeling turned his head over to Angel who was still standing on top of the bed. 011's horn glowed and managed to separate the locket from the rabbits grip at last. Angel then stuck his tongue out at the changeling again before hopping out of the room. He then dropped the heart shaped object into his open hoof. "Di- did I do something wrong"? Asked Fluttershy, hoping to know why he didn't trust her. 011 looked at her with sad eyes before looking back at the locket. "It's not what you've done". He then looked in her eyes once more, this time he was obviously angry. "Its what your species, the unicorns and the earth ponies have done to me, that I can not forgive". He then turned round and began to walk out of the room, until he heard Fluttershy speak.
Fluttershy just watched as the changeling limped its way downstairs and gave a weak smile. She knew that she was making some progress with the changeling. At least he promised not to leave the cottage. She then lowered her head onto the pillow and fell asleep.
It was now morning, and Fluttershy had just walked out of the bedroom and down the stairs to find the changeling, still wearing the locket around his neck, sleeping on the couch. She couldn't help but give a small giggle at how peaceful the creature looked. However, that small giggle was enough to wake 011 from his sleep. He looked round and noticed he was still in the cottage. "Great, I'm still here". The changeling muttered to himself sounding a little disappointed. He then saw the yellow pegasus staring at him from across the room.
"Good morning Mr... um... changeling. I hope you had pleasant dreams". said Fluttershy, still trying to be as friendly to the changeling as she possibly could. "Not really". replied 011, who wanted to make as little conversation as he could. "Oh dear. Do you want to talk about it"? Asked Fluttershy, sounding concerned. 011 looked at her with a frown and simply said. "No". Unfortunately for him, Fluttershy didn't plan on giving up that easily. "Talking about it may make you feel better". "I'm pretty sure it won't". "You never know until you try". "I said No"! "Come on". "No"! "Please"? "NO"! "Please"? "OKAY, FINE"! Yelled 011 knowing that the yellow pegasus would never shut up until he told her. His yell was enough to startle several birds from their sleep. "I dreamed that I was in an ugly looking cottage and an annoying yellow pony kept on talking and talking and talking and never left me alone! Happy"?! Fluttershy realized he was right, it didn't make him feel any better, and she herself certainly didn't seem happy after hearing what the changeling said. "Oh, sorry. I- I didn't mean to... upset you...". Fluttershy looked to the ground with hurt feelings. 011 rolled his eyes. "Listen, I'm... I'm sorry. I guess I'm just tired... or something". As moment he said those words, Fluttershy perked up and gave 011 a small smile and asked. "Would you like some breakfast Mr. Changeling"? 011 got off of the couch and stood up. "Yeah sure". He said, not exactly feeling comfortable with being called "Mr. Changeling" He then yawned and walked towards the kitchen.
The two of them walked into the kitchen. 011 sat down while Fluttershy got cereal from one of the cupboards. "Soooo...". Fluttershy began, and was rewarded with an awkward stare from the changeling who was sitting on the furthest chair away from her. "What would you like to eat"? 011 thought for a moment seeing how his usual diet of love was bound to be off the menu. "Toast". He snapped. Fluttershy looked at him with a disapproving stare and crossed arms. "...What"? Asked the changeling, unsure what he could have possibly done wrong this time. "You forgot to say please". Replied Fluttershy.
After Fluttershy had finished eating a bowl of cereal, and 011 done scarfing down his toast within a matter of minutes, they both headed into the main room once again, after 011 was forced to say "May I be excused". Before leaving the table. "So what can I do now"? asked the changeling. "Well, you could... um... feed Angel for me. If you want"? 011 felt his eye twitch at mention of the name "Angel". "I meant something that I would LIKE to do". said 011 knowing how much of a problem Angel had been the first time they properly met. "I know you and Angel got off to a bad start, but if you spend enough time together, maybe even do fun things together, you may turn out to be the best of friends". Said Fluttershy with hopes of the two getting along. 011 however, just stood there, not exactly optimistic about the idea. Fluttershy noticed his look and tried to think of something else. She was then interrupted by 011. "I could just leave this place and never come back again, that seems fun to me". He received another disapproving look from Fluttershy which told him the obvious answer. "Fine"! pouted 011. But before Fluttershy could say anything else to him, there was a knock at the door. The two looked at the door. "Oh dear". said Fluttershy.
"Perhaps I should go and hide upstairs". Said a very calm 011, turning round to the stairs. Being a high drone, he had been trained not to panic in most situations. "No wait, This could be a chance for you to meet some other ponies". said Fluttershy seeing this as an opportunity. 011 looked at Fluttershy. "What?! Why would I want to do something so like that"? Asked the confused changeling, stopping on the first step before facing Fluttershy once more. "Remember when I said you needed help"? asked Fluttershy. "Yes"? replied 011, not liking where this was heading. "Well friends are something that you may need. If you have friends, you may feel happier, Do you not think so"? "No I do not". said 011 with no emotion in his voice. "Please, since I saved your life"? This got 011 to think for a moment. "Will we be considered even then"? Asked 011. Fluttershy just nodded, knowing that this would be the only way to get the changeling to reason with her. "But you still have to stay here at the cottage". She said. "Yeah yeah, whatever". Snapped 011, not liking to be reminded of the promise. He surrounded himself in a ball of green light and once it faded, a white pegasus with a blue mane and tail took 011's place. His cutie mark was two pairs of pony hooves with fancy shoes on them, (what talent that was supposed to represent, who knows) Fluttershy nodded and opened the door to reveal a cyan colored pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail.
"Nice choice of hair color". 011 thought sarcastically. "Hello Rainbow Dash". said Fluttershy with a smile. "Hey Fluttershy". Responded Rainbow Dash. "Can I get you some tea"? "Nah, I'm good. Just called round to ask if-". She stopped talking and noticed the white pegasus standing near the staircase. "Who's the new guy"? She asked. "Rainbow Dash, I would like you to meet...Dino". "Dino"?! 011 screamed in his head. "What kind of name is that for a pony"?! Before he had time to object, the rainbow haired pegasus flew over to him and began to circle him curiously, as though she suspected something, only to stop the second time round to look at his cutie mark. "So Dino". She began. "What does your cutie mark stand for? Hmmm"? 011 looked at his cutie mark and saw the hoofs with shoes on his flank and tried to think of something as quick as he could. "It's for...Tap dancing". He said calmly. Rainbow Dash just simply grunted. "Well, nice meeting you. Dino"! Did she suspect something? 011 was starting to get nervous until she turned round and flew back over to Fluttershy. "Anyway, I came round to ask if you were still heading over to Pinkie's. You did Pinkie promise that you'd show up, and know what she's like when you break a Pinkie promise". Fluttershy's irises shrunk. She seemed nervous. "OH MY GOODNESS! I ALMOST FORGOT"! She nearly yelled. "We should head over now"! She quickly said. Seemed the whole "making friends" thing she had planned would have to wait for later. "Yeah, good call. We only have twenty minutes to get there. C'mon"! "Oh, hold on! I should tell Dino how to take care of the animals! We'll be gone for some time"! Before 011 could say anything against looking after her animals, She had already run upstairs, probably finding some paper to write down which animals needed feeding at what time. Two minutes passed and Fluttershy rushed down with a huge list that looked like it would take him hours just to read it. "Um, Fluttershy? I don't thi-". He was cut off when Fluttershy put the list into his mouth, stopping him from talking to her completely. "I hope you don't mind". Fluttershy told him. "Normally I wouldn't be asking for such a big thing but I really need you to look after the animals while I'm gone". 011 looked at her with slightly angry eyes. It was obvious he did not want to look after any animals, especially Angel. Fluttershy looked at him with puppy eyes as though she was nearly begging him to do this. "Why do I have the strange obsession to go *DAWWWW* all of sudden"? He thought to himself. He couldn't give in to her eyes and looked to the ground before simply nodding, telling her that he'd look after her pets. Fluttershy gave a gasp of joy. "Really"? 011 nodded again. He didn't exactly have much of a choice. "Oh thank you thank you thank you"! Said the now happy pony who hugged him. 011 just rolled her eyes. "Come on Fluttershy, Lets go! Fifteen minutes now"! 011 jumped. He had forgotten that Rainbow Dash was still standing near the door. Fluttershy broke the hug and headed out the door with Rainbow Dash. "So much for making new friends". thought the changeling, dropping his disguise and spit the rolled up list out of his mouth. It then landed on the floor and rolled open until the end of the list unfolded several meters away from where 011 had spit it out. He looked at each end of the list in shock. "Treg, Apunt". muttered 011 angrily.
It had been a little over ten minutes since Fluttershy had left, and already all of Tartarus had broken loose. Every single animal was out of control. Birds squawked loudly, flying all round the cottage. The small creatures, such as rabbits mice and squirrels, were running around like little maniacs, there was even a grizzly bear which 011 tried to stay away from, just in case it got bored and decided to maul him. "Well". 011 started. "I don't see how this could possibly get any worse". And right on cue, a certain white rabbit had thrown and hit him in the face with a pillow from the couch. 011 glared at it. "I had to ask". He said with anger before chasing the rabbit around the room.
Author's Note
Sorry about this chapter being short. I had to rewrite it due to rushed effort.
10 minutes after leaving the cottage with 011 responsible for her animals, Fluttershy was still heading down to Pinkies place with Rainbow Dash. She was quite confident that 011 could handle her loving animals, Rainbow Dash on the other hoof was thinking to herself. She then turned to Fluttershy and spoke. "Fluttershy, I need to talk to you about your new friend". "Dino? Why"? "Not to point hoofs at you Fluttershy, But it sounded as though you were covering for the guy". Fluttershy panicked but was able to hide it from Rainbow Dash. "I- I Don't think I follow...". She lied "Its just the way you seemed to answer his name for him. Plus, what kind of name is Dino? Sounds made up". "Well there are many different names from many different ponies. I'm sure its nothing". "Not to mention". Rainbow Dash continued. "That this guy just HAPPENS to come out of nowhere shortly after the whole wedding incident with Twilight's brother". Fluttershy stopped walking and gave Rainbow Dash a look of innocence before saying. "Dashie. I know what you're thinking. But why would I want to help those... monsters? They are just so...scary and evil. I don't think I would be brave enough to go anywhere near one if I got the chance". Her lie got Rainbow Dash thinking. While she was distracted by the question, Fluttershy looked down, feeling horrible about calling 011 a monster. "I suppose you're right". Rainbow Dash answered, looking back at Fluttershy who had already raised her head in time to make eye contact with Rainbow Dash. "Sorry about accusing your friend. I guess I'm just over reacting". She said in an apologetic tone. "It's alright Dashie". Fluttershy replied with a kind smile. "I understand you were just trying to protect me". Rainbow Dash then remembered his current situation. "Say, do you think he's managing to keep you pets under control"? "I'm not worried". Fluttershy spoke with confidence. "I'm sure he's having the time of his life". She finished as they passed a sign saying *Welcome to Ponyville*.
"ARRGGH! NOT EVEN THAT WRETCHED CHRYSALISIS SHOULD HAVE TO DEAL WITH SUCH TORMENT"!! 011 yelled to the ceiling as he was still struggling to get the animals under control. So far he had managed to feed all of the birds, after they had finished poking at him with their beaks, and the small woodland critters seemed quite content for the moment. His biggest problem however, was the demon in disguise, Angel. So far, 011 had chased him round the cottage, had several items thrown at the high drone (Some of those items were quite expensive), and had somehow managed to set the large grizzly bear on 011 until he tricked it into following him outside, then quickly dashing past it, into the cottage and locking the door. Luckily it hadn't tried to get back in so it wouldn't try to attack the changeling again. "Enough games"! The now furious changeling growled as his horn lit up and picked Angel up with his magic before taking him into the kitchen and tossing him into the washing machine before placing a magical lock onto it, preventing the rabbit from getting out. "Perhaps I should have tried that in the first place". The changeling thought before feeling as though his birthday had come early as he quickly remembered he had taken care of his number one problem. He then began to cheer and mock Angel who glared back angrily at him. "How does it feel now you little-"! *KNOCK* *KNOCK* Some pony was at the front door. 011 turned round to face it and headed towards the door. He changed into his white Pegasus disguise. "Please don't be the bear". He thought to himself as his hoof touched the door handle. He swung the door open and saw the one being he expected to never see again. "Hello 011. Good to see you once more".
Standing in front of 011 was the Changeling Princess in her natural form. "Your Highness". 011 said before bowing in front of her. "It brings me joy to see you still remain in one piece 011". The Princess said with a smile on her face. "How did you know I was here your Highness"? asked 011. "I heard your voice nearby while flying around in disguise. Something about my mother and torment". 011 blushed, surprised how his voice could be so loud sometimes. He once again bowed down and spoke. "I apologize your Highness. I meant no disrespect to yourself or-". "Rise 011. I too grow angry at my mothers own selfishness". 011 raised himself from the floor, surprised that the princess would say such a thing. "You also believe your mother is nothing"? asked the confused changeling."I do". replied the princess, showing no signs of regret in her voice. "Come, I need to speak to you outside. 011 stepped outside and closed the door so no animals could get out. The changeling princess then transformed into her own disguise. A pink unicorn with a yellow mane and tail. Her cutie mark was a crown. "Your Highness, I do not mean any disrespect, but why have you come here"? Asked the high drone, still disguised as a white pegasus. "Please 011, call me by my number. 002". the princess said with a smile on her face. "As you wish...002". 011 felt a little uncomfortable speaking the number of a changeling princess. If he had tried it back at the hive, he would have been punished by suffering pain until his mind broke. "I am here for two reasons 011. The first being that there has been talk among-st your own soldiers about rebelling against the queen and are planning an uprising in your return". 011 felt a wave of joy and relief come over him. "It pleases me to know my soldiers, my brothers in arms, have been loyal enough to stay at my side, even after my banishment. Once I am properly healed, I shall do my duty to lead them to victory". "That would not be a wise move". 002 spoke with some fear in her voice. 011 noticed this at once. It wasn't often the princess showed any signs of fear. "I don't understand. What is it that has you shaken up 002"? "Do you remember that experimental cloning test that the queen forced upon you"? 011 thought back, trying to remember what *experiment* she meant. His pony irises then shrunk as he remembered what she meant."The Uberling trials"?! 002 just shook her head.
"I don't understand"! panicked 011. "We were told that the uberling experiment failed". "That is what my mother wanted us to believe. But the Uberling turned out to pass all tests". 002 said sadly. "How were you able to discover this"? asked 011, his voice growing louder with each passing second. 002 looked into his fake pony eyes, deciding to tell him the truth. "Because my mother, Chrysalis, has already sent it into the Everfree forest to find you. Once it tracks your scent, it'll reach this place in a couple of days"! 011 thought for a second, trying to decide the best course of action."Then I must leave this place at once"! He said, thinking it was his best chance of survival. "And what of the pony living here"? 002 curiously asked. 011 paused. "It does not matter. If the uberling finds this place then it will likely destroy this cottage along with its owner". 011s word earned him an angered look from the princess. "And you believe it is for the best that she should suffer for you deeds". Her voice had gone cold. Even though she was a changeling princess, she had grown to love all species from ponies and changelings, to griffins and minotaurs. It was hard to believe that she was the daughter of queen Chrysalis. "It is a kindness that even any of these wretched ponies do not deserve". Snarled 011. He sounded furious and filled with sudden hatred. Not at 002, but from remembering an event from his past. Something that caused his hatred of ponies in the first place. 002 could see this and spoke once more. This time, her voice had become soft and understanding. "This is about what happened with Sally is it not"? she asked.
011 just nodded, not wanting to speak about it. "011, I know how it feels to lose some pony you care about, ...but then again, nothing like you have experienced. And I know there is nothing that I can do to bring her back, but may I at least offer you some advice"? 011 looked at her, silently for a couple of seconds before finally giving an answer. "Of course, your highness". 011 turned away for a slight second, unable to look the future queen of changelings in the eye. He then felt 002's hoof rest on his shoulder. Not her fake pony one, but her hole filled hoof. She had turned back into her original form, probably to help 011 feel more at ease. "011, all changelings have known pain and suffering,even myself. But there are also the moments in life that make life worth living. And... even though Sally is no longer with us, she will always be a part of you, and you will always be a part of her as long as you remember her. But in order for you to be truly happy, for her, you must understand that you must let go of the past if you wish to have a future". 011 looked back at 002 and gave a small smile. "Understood 002, but I must confess that even though time heals all wounds, scars can form and may last for a much longer time than life itself". 002 only nodded, hanging on to what else the high drone had to say. "But I can understand that this pony is... different to most I have encountered. And she certainly would not have done what others have done to Sally". "Then I believe your journey towards healing has already begun 011". finished 002, forming a smile on her face once more.
Author's Note
Sorry it took me more than two weeks to write this. I've been busy with college lately. nevertheless, here it is. the next chapter.
It had been only a couple of minutes since 011 told Fluttershy of the uberling. Being the timid pony she was, 011 expected her to have packed up all her animals and head for the hills. However, she did not. Instead she was calmly arguing with 011 who was beginning to get frustrated at her ignorance.
"Why must you be so stubborn"?! asked 011 angrily to the yellow pegasus. Unlike 011, she wasn't angry, but she had other plans to help him. "But Silver,". Silver was apparently now the changeling's new name. It wasn't too bad but still, it was better than being called Dino. ", You can't stay here. If there really is a monster heading this way, you won't stand a chance". "And neither will you if you stay! I promised that no harm would come to you and I shall keep that promise"! "But...". "No buts! You must leave now"! 011's horn lit up and an already opened suitcase floated down the stairs surrounded in a green aura, along with it, several clothing items. The suitcase landed in front of Fluttershy and the clothes were quickly piled up into the suitcase which then closed. "There, you are already packed". "But what will you do"? Asked the timid pegasus, afraid she would not like his answer. "I must stay here and find a way to stop the Uberling. It is only after me, so if you get in the way, you'll regret it". Fluttershy kept trying to protest. She wasn't going to leave quietly. "If you... maybe talk to my friends in Ponyville, I'm sure they would be kind enough to help you". 011 let out a small laugh. "If any pony knew I had been staying here for a few days, they would likely tear me limb from limb like the savages they are"! Fluttershy stepped back, surprised that the changeling would believe that her friends would do such a thing. "Silver! My friends would never do such a horrible thing"! 011 was quite taken back. He had never known the pegasus to sound so forceful, but it didn't end there. "And they are certainly not savages! I want you to apologize for that remark right now mister. Or else". 011 laughed harder this time, unable to imagine that such a sweet caring pony would actually carry out a threat to him. "Oh or else what"? He began, still giving a few laughs. "You'll beg me to stop some more"? At that point, he had crossed the line.
Before he could continue, Fluttershy stared angrily at him. 011 just stood there, confused. This was what she was threatening to do? Stare at him? "You'll stare at me. That is your threat? How pathetic, you won-". 011 paused, he couldn't speak anymore as he looked at her eyes. He couldn't even move. It was almost as if he was in a trance. Fluttershy began to talk once more, keeping her eyes on 011's the whole time. "Listen mister, you think you can just go round talking about my friends that way? Well you can think again"! 011 felt like his soul was being pierced by her eyes, and it scared him. The chimera in the forest hadn't scared him but a shy pony? Now 011 felt afraid and embarrassed. "Now we are going to Twilight's for help and you're coming! And once we arrive, I want you to apologize for what you've said! Do you understand"? 011 didn't nod or shake his head. The only movement he could make was a twitch from his left eye. "I said, Do you understand"? 011 still didn't move. If it wasn't for the fact that he was standing up, you could have easily mistaken him for being dead. "Silver"? Fluttershy was starting to feel worried. "Are you okay"? Still no response. His eye wasn't twitching anymore. "Silver? can you speak, please"? Fluttershy was now nearly on the verge of tears. Her tactic of getting 011 to cooperate had seemed to have some sort of effect on him. Fluttershy gently lifted her front hoof up and tapped 011 on the nose. Still no response, he didn't even flinch. "Oh dear! What have I done"?! Fluttershy hugged the changelings stiff body and cried. Her tears splashing down on 011's hard black shoulder. "I'm so sorry"! She cried between sobs, hoping that 011 could hear her. Within seconds, 011 blinked and moved his hooves. His head hurt and he struggled to remember what had just happened. He then noticed that he had a very upset pegasus unloading a waterfall onto his shoulder. "Is there something wrong"? Fluttershy raised her head the sound of the voice and saw 011 looking at her with a confused look in his face while 011 himself saw tears streaming down her own. "Silver? You're okay! thank goodness, I thought I'd done something to you". 011 did not get what she meant. "... I don't understand". Fluttershy had now gone from upset, to relieved, and now to confused. It was as though 011 didn't remember what had just happened, as a matter of fact, he didn't. It seemed the stare had caused some sort of amnesia. "Don't you remember what I just said"? Asked Fluttershy, trying to jog his memory"Something about apologizing to your friends... and my mind went blank afterwards". Fluttershy broke her hug at last. "Anyway, as I was saying, you need to leave". Fluttershy just stared at him. She was surprised, to say the least, her stare had made everything she used it on obey her, chickens, a cockatrice, even a full grown dragon had broken down from her stare. But now, it seemed that the stare had a different effect on 011, for what reason, she did not know. Fluttershy felt that she should tell 011 what she had done to him, one reason to jog his memory, another reason to see if 011 wasn't silently suffering. "Umm, Silver"? Thinking that this was another attempt at arguing, 011 turned round and decided that enough was enough. "Tell me, where do one of your friends live"? Fluttershy was caught off guard from the question. "oh, well, my friend Twilight lives at Ponyville library, and-". Before she could say one more word, 011 zapped her with his magic, along with the suitcase and the whole room glowed bright green. When the light dimmed down, Fluttershy and the suitcase was nowhere in sight. "Good to know". said 011, at least that was one problem out of the way for him. But little did he know that in time, he had caused more problems than he had solved.
The Ponyville librarian, likely to be Twilight, was busy stacking several books away. She was quite content, hardly paying attention to anything else. That was until a bright green ball appeared in the middle of her room and nearly blinded her. She covered her eyes as the green ball of light expanded for a few seconds, and suddenly collapsed into itself. Once Twilight could tell that the light had disappeared, she lowered her hoof and to her surprise, she saw Fluttershy looking back at her. "Fluttershy? What are you doing here? And what was that green ball of light"? "Oh... Hello Twilight. Can I stay here for a couple of days? I'll try not to be a bother". She said, knowing that 011 wouldn't let her return to her cottage. Twilight walked over to her friend and saw that her cheeks were wet, from the crying she did earlier but Twilight did not know that. "Fluttershy, Is everything okay? You seem a bit upset". "Twilight, I need to tell you something". It was time to tell her about Silver.
Author's Note
Glad I managed to write this chapter so fast. Especially since it took me more than two weeks to write the last one.
It had now been twelve hours since 011 had teleported Fluttershy to Twilight's home and the high drone had fallen asleep. Not in Fluttershy's warm bed, but on the couch. He slept on his stomach seeing how his wing was still slightly torn from being attacked by the chimera. It had healed quite fast during the time he had spent with Fluttershy, but ever since 011 harshly forced her to leave, he could tell that it was taking much more time for it to fully heal even though 011 did not know the reason why. Outside, the Everfree forest was lit up by the moon which shone brightly throughout the night. To the changelings, whenever the moon shone its brightest, it meant that the fallen princess, nightmare moon, was in a good mood. Most changelings were aware that nightmare moon had been transformed back into the true princess of the night, Luna, a couple of years ago but others were convinced that a spark of tyranny remained inside of her, one of those "others" being 011 himself.
It seemed peaceful in the cottage, especially since Angel was still trapped inside the washing machine. It wasn't as though 011 had forgotten about him. He still fed him a couple of carrots every few hours seeing how he felt pitiful for the poor rabbit. But for now, he too, was sleeping peacefully, trying to make the best of his imprisonment. Unfortunately for the both of them, that peace was shortly disrupted as several loud bangs came from the front door. 011 woke up feeling a little groggy and got of the couch slowly and looked at the door. The banging noises still continued, each knock getting louder and louder. "Surely that yellow pegasus has not been foolish enough to return"? Thought the changeling, finding it hard to believe that Fluttershy had come back to the cottage for whatever reason. And he knew that it certainly couldn't have been the uberling, since when do giant bloodthirsty monsters knock? Just to be on the safe side, he changed into his usual pegasus disguise and walked towards the door. Before he opened it, he checked the time on a small clock hanging from the wall which told him it was 4:20am. "I hope it's not another nocturnal animal". He muttered to himself as he had already been awoken by a loud hooting owl earlier on. 011 opened the door.
Standing before him was the purple unicorn known as Twilight Sparkle. Her face looked quite serious with a hint of anger. "Are you the one that the yellow pegasus calls Twilight"? He asked knowing he had brought this on himself seeing how he sent Fluttershy to Twilight's in the first place. "Her name is Fluttershy! And yes, I am as a matter of fact". She said, keeping her eyes fixed onto 011's. "Then I suspect you have come for what you see as justice after the wedding incident. To punish me for crimes I did not commit"? Asked 011. He knew that Twilight was the sister of the groom the day the changelings attacked Canterlot. "I have come to protect my friend from you, you monster"! She began to yell, ignoring the last part of 011's sentence, as her anger started to grow. But he was right, Twilight was partly doing this for revenge for her brother. 011 transformed back into his usual changeling form, it was obvious he was fooling nopony. He even backed up to allow Twilight into the cottage. "Perhaps you would take some joy in knowing I had nothing to do with the attack on Canterlot and that I myself despise that foul being known as Chrysalis"? Twilight was caught off guard by hearing a changeling speak against his queen in such a foul manner. Nevertheless, she was prepared to blast the changeling into oblivion with her magic if he made one wrong move. "What are you talking about? You are meant to serve Chrysalis. How can you call her something like that"? "My reasons for rebellion against Chrysalis are my own to keep. However, onto more important things. What do you plan to do with me? Capture? torture? kill"? 011 did not show any emotion as he had already gone through this when he discussed the same thing with Fluttershy when they had first met. As he expected, Twilight was shocked by his words. "Kill? I-I would never kill anypony. Especially something as evil as you"! "Touching to say the least. But I must know one thing before you do what you must against me". "What would you care about"? "Is she alright?, the yellow pegasus? I understand she was quite upset earlier"? Twilight gave a small sarcastic laugh. She obviously thought the changeling was just trying to trick her so it could escape. "Why would something like you care about Fluttershy"? "Because she is the first pony I have met who is not corrupt, selfish and hateful. Much like yourself right now". He gave a small smile as he saw that his words had a negative effect on Twilight. Before Twilight could say, or do, anything else, the room filled up with a bright white light. Both 011 and Twilight turned round to face the direction of the light which grew bigger and bigger until it eventually reached the ceiling. Within a matter of seconds, it died down. Now standing in the middle of the room, was the one pony 011 hoped he would never have to meet, Princess Celestia herself. She stared down at the changeling which was a little over half her size. Her face showed no emotion, like 011's earlier who now grew nervous at the sight of the huge figure looming over him.
"Princess Celestia"! yelped a now suddenly happy Twilight as she ran past 011 and to Celestia, giving her a small nuzzle of affection. "A pleasure to see you Twilight. I see you found Fluttershy's new friend". 011 gave a little groan immediately after hearing the word *Friend*. "With respect your highness, the yellow pegasus you speak of and myself are far from being friends". Even though 011 disliked ponies, he still showed respect to the princess, especially since she had the power to do whatever she wanted with him. Expecting the princess to treat him with anger and rudeness, like her subject Twilight had done only mere moments ago, he was surprised to be met with a warm smile. "That isn't what Fluttershy has told me changeling. She says that you have some good in you. And I myself, after all the things she has said about you, agree".
If a changeling's jaw could stretch down and touch the floor, 011 was showing a very good example of it right now. "Pardon me your highness, unless I am highly mistaken, you think I am not a horrible abomination like your subject Twilight believes I am"? "That is correct changeling". Twilight felt a little hurt that the changeling thought that she despised him. In a way she did, but the way he said it made it that much worse. But before long, the Princess's warm smile begun to turn into a serious look. "Fluttershy also mentioned that there is some sort of monster after you. Something called an Uberling"? "I'm afraid so. And it will find its way here in a days time". Princess Celestia looked to Twilight for a second, then back to 011. "Changeling, please wait outside while I discuss this matter with Twilight". "Are you not concerned that I could just run away if you left me alone"? "Even if you did, I doubt you would get far with a princess chasing after you". The princess replied with a small grin. "...Very well". Replied 011 as he trotted outside and closed the door.
Ten minutes passed and 011 had now been reduced to counting blades of grass waiting for the two ponies inside to finish talking about whatever they were planning to do. However, 011 was not alone for long. 011 did not know it, but Fluttershy was trotting up the path with a smile on her face after seeing that 011 was not harmed. She then proceeded to running up to him as fast as her four hoofs would let her. "Silver! I'm so glad to see that you are safe"! 011 looked up and was immediately greeted by a bone crushing hug from the over excited pegasus. It felt like he was being constricted by an anaconda. "...thank...you...". 011 managed to wheeze out, finding it hard to move or even breathe. Eventually, she released the poor changeling and let 011 fill his lungs with oxygen once more and allowed him to talk. "So I see that you brought the princess with you to see me". "Oh, well actually, She was already with Twilight. At first I didn't know she was there but after I told Twilight that I was keeping you with me-". "Perhaps you should have told her I was just a regular pony who needed a place to stay for a couple of nights"? "... I-I guess I could have, but I didn't want to lie to Twilight like I did with Rainbow Dash. I hope you don't mind". "A little late to apologize, but go ahead". "After I told Twilight I was keeping you at my house, she immediately headed over here as fast as she could. And before I could say anything else, Princess Celestia emerged from the basement and... well... I told her about you as well...". "I know. She seemed quite... calm... when I met her". "And I even tried to put in a good word for you so that you wouldn't be badly treated, I mean, it's not like the Princess would treat you badly but... I didn't want to risk it". "There is one thing I don't understand". "What is it"? "Twilight ran here which would have taken at least fifteen minutes and the Princess immediately teleported here after you had finished putting in a good word for me, correct"? "That's right. I decided to walk. I didn't want to be much of a bother, what with the Princess having to teleport me as well". "... I see. So unless I'm mistaken, you spent fifteen minutes putting in a good word for me"? "I did". Fluttershy said smiling. "How did you manage that"? "Well, I also told her everything that happened from when we first met, to the point where you teleported me away for my own good". "And you did that for me"? "Of course. You are my friend". "... Thank you. I really appreciate that".
The door to the cottage opened up and Princess Celestia walked out, followed by Twilight. The princess looked over to 011 and spoke. "We have decided the best course of action for this situation Changeling". 011 simply nodded, unsure what to expect. "The royal guard will search the forest for this uberling threat and deal with it. As for yourself, you will be escorted to Canterlot and locked up until we can decide your fate". Fluttershy opened her mouth to protest, but 011 put his hoof over her mouth and shook his head towards her. "Understood. I accept the charges, but on one condition. I am allowed to take one item of my choice with me". Celestia smiled and nodded. "Granted changeling. What item will you take with you"? 011's horn began to glow and in a matter of seconds, his golden locket, surrounded in a green aura, floated past Celestia and Twilight and slid itself over 011's head and around his neck. "This locket. It is all I'll need". "And what exactly is in it"? Asked Twilight, suspiciously. 011 twisted his head towards her her. "It's personal". Was all he said before he was engulfed by a ball of white light which disappeared in an instant, and 011 with it. Princess Celestia was about to do the same until, "Princess Celestia"? The Princess turned her head to the sound of the voice, it was Fluttershy. "He will be okay, won't he"? The Princess couldn't help but smile at her. She had a heart of gold. "You have nothing to worry about my dear. I promise that no harm will come to your friend". She said to the timid pegasus before she herself disappeared.
Author's Note
I feel as though I may have rushed this chapter so apologies if this chapter isn't as good as the others.
011 opened his eyes, after having to shield them from the bright light of Celestia's magic, and found that Celestia had teleported him inside of a cell block. Before doing anything, he checked his neck to see if he still had his locket with him. He did. The changeling gave a sigh of relief, glad that Celestia had stayed true to her word. It was still dark outside and the sun wouldn't be raised for several more hours. Seeing how he had nothing better to do, 011 hopped into the nearby bed in the corner of the cell and closed his eyes.
Meanwhile, the Princess of the night, Luna, was pacing round the throne room, waiting for her sisters return. She knew that Celestia had gone to see Twilight about her studies, but it didn't take any longer than twenty minutes, and she had been gone for nearly forty five. Without warning, the room lit up brightly. It only lasted for a second and then immediately faded. Celestia had returned but her face showed that she had something on her mind. "Sister, Is thou well? you seem distracted". Asked Luna, concerned with the unusual silence that her sister had brought with her. "Everything is fine dear sister, but I must talk to you of a serious threat that threatens one of the lives of our subjects".
As Celestia explained the situation about the Uberling and the new changeling prisoner to Luna, Fluttershy was leaving her cottage to live with Twilight until the Uberling threat had been dealt with. Her animals remained at the cottage as they were to be taken to the Canterlot gardens eventually. All she took with her was her Bunny Angel, who had had been let out of the washing machine at last by Twilight who was able to break the magical lock surrounding it, and 011's armour. Her main worry at the moment was 011. She knew that he would come to no harm. After all, Princess Celestia had promised her. But what would happen to him once the uberling incident passed? She couldn't help but wonder as she made her way down the dirt road.
Morning finally rose and the sunlight slipped through the prison bars on the windows and onto 011's face which caused him to wake up. What was supposed to be five hours sleep, it felt like a lot less. Hesitantly, the changeling found the strength to get off of the bed. He then looked past the cell bars only to see two large door ahead of him down a long corridor. However, it wasn't long until he had company as one of the doors opened up and three ponies walked through it and along the corridor. One of the ponies was Twilight, which surprised the changeling. After what happened at Fluttershys cottage, 011 imagined that she would have been the last pony who would come to see him. The other two ponies on either side of her were soldiers of the royal guard. To 011, they hardly seemed a threat. They seemed to be carrying a spear each which was attached to the side of their chest plates. A little over twenty seconds passed until Twilight was standing in front of the changeling with only the bars separating them as they both stared harshly at each other.
"What are you doing here"? Asked 011, confused why this purple unicorn had come to him. "Decide to mock me for my imprisonment"? Twilight became a little more calm and responded. "...Actually I came to ask you some questions about your species. I never got the chance to learn about your kind and now that we captured you, there's no better opportunity". 011 wasn't expecting that answer, although, it may have been some sort of interrogation to discover the hives weaknesses. "That depends on what your questions are". He responded coldly. "Fair enough". Twilight said quickly as she levitated a quill and a scroll, ready to take down everything that the changeling had to say.
"Question 1", She began. "How well can your species do magic"? "Some changelings can perform spells better than others. However it does not mean to say that one powerful changeling is not as strong or as intelligent as one who has little to none magical abilities". As he spoke, Twilight made sure that she had written every single word down that the changeling said. "Question 2, How long do changelings live"? "The average life for a changeling is from 120 years to 140. However, the oldest changeling who has ever lived had survived until she reached 156 years". This went on for a while. Most of the questions were about changeling biology and partly about changeling language. However, the next question seemed to be a little hurtful.
"Question 16, How well organised is your military? Because judging from your tactics at the royal wedding, they seemed to just rush at their targets like mindless creatures, despite the fact that they sort of are. it is still considered one of the worst types of strategies ever known". 011's head clicked. As soon as he heard the word military, he knew she was trying to figure out any weaknesses that changelings possess. But also to call soldiers mindless creatures, especially changeling soldiers, was insulting to not only himself but to every drone under his command. "If you truly believe that I will tell you anything about the changeling army then you are highly mistaken. And you would do well to never call a changeling a mindless creature! your question alone is enough to insult the honor of myself and all the changelings in the hive! Many had fought bravely for the protection of their leaders and their own families and you insult them without giving any second thought"! Twilight wasn't sure what to say at this point. As much as she didn't like changelings, he had a point. She may have gone a bit too far. "I- I'm sorry. I didn't me-". "Don't you dare try to make a fake apology you Ha broshieb'rak"! He nearly yelled without allowing Twilight, who now seemed frightened, to finish her sentence. "If these bars did not separate us, I would-". He was stopped there as a spear made its way through the bars and was just inches away from impaling the changeling in his throat. Twilight gathered her strength as she tried to ask one last question, perhaps the most important one she had asked so far. "Last question... Why do you hate Chrysalis"? "... Why is that of any importance"? "After you said that you despised her back at Fluttershys cottage, I became curious and wanted to find out for myself, maybe so that I could... help you... which is why I came here". Seeing how this time it was a personal question, 011 decided to eventually answer. "Because she treats changeling soldiers horribly and she banished me from the hive. Her recent events have possibly crippled our forces and she seems to care only for herself". He then glanced downwards to his locket. "And because when I needed help, she refused to help not only myself but somepony very important to me. That! is why"! Not wanting to go on any further, 011 turned away from Twilight and just stared out of the window, trying to ignore her. But before he could have any peace, he heard the slightly cracked voice of the unicorn for the last time. "Okay then... well... Thank you for answering my questions... I'll just go and leave you alone now...".
Twilight began headed back down the long corridor with both guards, now feeling sorry for the poor unicorn, at either side of her like when she first arrived. It wasn't until 011 heard the doors close, that he turned round. He just sat down and muttered. " Marran est' calmae. May she suffer for her ignorance"!
Author's Note
This chapter was hard to write seeing how there was little to talk about 011 being stuck in a cell doing nearly nothing so I decided to bring back Twilight and perhaps I'll add some more known names in the next chapter. But for now I hope this chapter was worth the extra two day wait.
A few hours had passed since The Unicorn Twilight had left and 011 was given some peace and quiet at last. The time seemed to pass slowly but that no longer mattered to him. He had a roof over his head which was all that mattered. Even if he was under the watchful eyes of the Pony princess. However, that peace and quiet was suddenly interrupted once more as another three royal guards entered the room and trotted up to the bars of his cell. "Princess Celestia wishes to speak to you Changeling". Spoke the middle guard whose armor was fancier than the other two. "What does she want to see me for"? Asked 011, clearly irritated. "I do not know. Find out for yourself". The gate to the cell opened and 011 was led through the long hall and out the door. The pony he had just spoken to walked in front of him while the other two stood at the changelings sides in case he tried anything.
After a long walk though the castle, 011 was now standing in front of the doors that led to the throne room. "The princess is expecting you". Spoke the royal guard once more before leaving. 011 watched him until he and his men turned a corner and looked back at the door. He pushed it gently with his front hoof and the door slowly swung open and 011 saw the princess sitting down on the other side of the large room, she looked quite serious. As 011 walked down the throne room towards Celestia, he noticed the stained windows on his left and right which reached up from his head to the ceiling. What caught his attention the most however was that in one of the stained windows was Fluttershy. She seemed to be... fighting against... Nightmare moon with Twilight, Rainbow Dash and three other ponies, and succeeded. The next stained window he passed was even more incredible. It once again showed all six ponies imprisoning some weird looking creature which had a deer antler, an eagle claw, a bat wing, a snake tail and several other types of animals. There seemed to be something about each window that showed all six ponies. All of them were wearing a different type of necklace apart from Twilight who had some sort of crown. He then turned from the windows and was now in front of the steps that led to Celestia.
"Princess Celestia. I believe that the Uberling has been found"? Asked 011 with hope. "I'm afraid not Changeling. I have called you here for a different matter". "What is it you have summoned me here for"? "Do you recall my Student Twilight Sparkle who spoke to you no less than a few hours ago"? 011's face frowned as he knew where this was going. "Yes, I am aware of what happened". "Care to explain about your... sudden outburst towards her and why she was nearly in tears when I saw her"? "I may seem like an ordinary changeling to you Princess. But it doesn't mean that myself, that any of us, would stand by and allow our species to be insulted by anypony. Your student did just that and then dared to say that she only wanted to help afterward as though she wanted to pretend that nothing had just happened". Celestia raised a brow and spoke back. "I do not choose to believe that my faithful student would insult you or your species. And neither would I". 011 just glared at her as though to say "I don't believe you". "Is there a reason why you seem so angry towards us ponies"? Asked Celestia, knowing that he did not trust her. "I would tell you but my words would likely fail me from such pain in my heart". The princess nodded her head, showing that she understood his reasons. 011 changed the subject to the stained windows.
"If I may ask you something Princess"? "Of course, what is on your mind"? "The windows of this room contain pictures of the three ponies I met only a few days ago. But unless I am mistaken, one of these pictures show that they, along with others, have managed to stop The mare in the moon. How is this so"? Celestia walked up from her throne up to 011 and paused to look at the picture. "Not long ago, My Dear sister Luna was known as Nightmare Moon. After she had returned from her banishment to Equestria to pledge that she would shroud the land in everlasting night. But before she could succeed, the elements of harmony rose up against her and managed to rid Luna of Nightmare moon therefore freeing her of her evil self". 011 couldn't believe it. Fluttershy, the wimpy pegasus who fears nearly everything, was able to defeat such a dangerous creature such as Nightmare Moon? It was hard to believe but there it was. Staring him right in the face. "And of that one"? Asked 011 as he pointed to the window showing the weird creature made of different animal parts. "This creature is known as Discord. The spirit of chaos who escaped eternal imprisonment in stone only several months ago. He tricked the elements of harmony into becoming the opposite of their true self's and made Ponyville into the new chaos capital of the world". 011 checked out of one of the normal glass windows which showed a good view of Ponyville. It looked normal enough to him. "And I suppose that these same elements of harmony were able to overcome his enchantments and defeat him"? "That is correct Changeling". "Impressive to say the least. Defending their race by standing up against such tyrants. How noble of them". He said while keeping his eyes on Ponyville outside. "Not just Pony kind, but also the Griffon kingdom, the Minotaur cities. Even your species were saved thanks to the elements". 011 looked at the pictures once again and noted the necklace like weapons. Those must be how they are able to fight against these dangerous foes. Perhaps something that may come in useful for another time.
"Now changeling, I am glad to tell you that your friend Fluttershy sent me a scroll today asking for you". "I see, and what is it she asks of me"? Celestia managed to teleport the scroll out of nowhere and hovered it over to 011 who took control of it with his own magic and began to read.
Dear Princess Celestia
I hope you don't mind me asking but a couple of days ago, I told Silver that he needed to make some friends. I never got the chance to introduce him to anypony and would love to give him the chance to meet some of the ponies here in Ponyville so that he can see that we are not the scary mean monsters he thinks we are.
If you could, can you please write back to let me know your answer? I mean, if you have the time. P.S. I hope this letter isn't interrupting anything important. If so, I am sorry.
"I cannot believe she actually apologized in the letter for doing basically nothing". Complained the changeling as he scrunched the scroll with with magic before letting it fall to the ground. "Well of that is all Princess, I will return to my cell". 011 turned round to leave until he heard Celestia cough to get his attention. "Actually I believe that Fluttershy has a good point on teaching you the values of friendship". 011's jaw hit the ground in disbelief, not the first time that had happened and probably wouldn't be the last. "You can not be serious! Have you forgotten about the Uberling already!? Or my imprisonment"?! Celestia gave a slight chuckle at 011's sudden outburst before answering back. "I will be helping to defend Ponyville from the Uberling as well as my royal guards. And if I and my guards should fail. I know that the elements of harmony will not let Ponyville down. As for your imprisonment, I guess we can now change it to community service". "... Very well. I see you've thought this through quite carefully". 011 grumbled to himself as he now had to be moved from his cell which he was starting to like, to a town of stupid annoying ponies. 011 headed towards the door. "Changeling"? 011 turned his head to Celestia again. "If somepony asks you a few questions about you or your species again. Please try not to yell and insult them again". 011 smirked a bit. "No promises". He then exited the throne room and readied himself for the worst that Ponyville has to offer.
After gathering his locket from the cell, 011 was on the first chariot to Ponyville. The air blew strongly into his face giving him more to moan about. He knew that Celestia had responded to Fluttershy's scroll so she should have known that he was on his way. Ten minutes of traveling passed and the chariot reached the center of Ponyville. "Thank you guards". said 011 to the guards who pulled the chariot. They snorted in response and flew off with the chariot leaving 011 on his own. He looked round. There was nopony in sight, not that it surprised 011 but he was expecting Fluttershy to meet him at the least. "Way to roll out the welcome carpet Ponyville". He muttered to himself as he approached one of the houses and looked inside. All he could see was his own reflection as the room inside was too dark.
He walked up to a second house and noticed something on the door. A note which said. "Please Enter Silver". 011 looked around almost certain that this was some sort of trap. "Perhaps it would be wise to just walk away right now". He told himself. However, his curiosity got the better of him as he swung the door open, pitch black just like the other house. He walked inside unsure what to expect until...
"SURPRISE"!!! The room suddenly lit up and standing in front of 011 was at least fifty ponies. "AMBUSH"! 011 yelled as he dived to the nearest table and flipped it over before firing a magic bolt over the top of it. He ducked back under and heard the bolt make contact with something. He charged up another bolt but before firing again, he realized that nopony was attacking him. He certainly should have been overrun by now. The room was actually dead silent. 011 took his chances and looked over the table only to be met with a hundred shocked eyes. "Well this is quite unnerving". He thought. Soon after, Fluttershy appeared from the crowd. "Yellow Pegasus, what is the meaning of this poorly planned attack"? Asked 011 obviously furious from what he thought was some form of ambush. Fluttershy seemed quite calm but a little nervous from what just happened. "ummm, I think you're confused Silver. This is... well, was meant to be a welcoming party for you". 011 looked round. He noticed that the magic bolt he fired had hit some sort of half destroyed glass bowl filled with an odd purple liquid. "... Welcoming party? You mean some sort of interrogation"? "No...". "Imprisonment"? "No". "Is it-"? "Silver, do you even know what a party is"? "... I can safely say that I do not". A couple of mares gave a small giggle. However, a quick glare from 011 shut them up immediately.
"So please explain. What is this... parah..tey... that you speak of"? Asked 011 who was interested in learning what a party was. "Well, it's meant to be a... get together of a group of friends who like to dance and have fun". Replied Fluttershy as she tried her best to describe a party. 011 on the other hoof looked even more confused. "... What in Chysalis's name is a Fun and a dance supposed to be"?! Fluttershy paused for a second. She could describe dancing well enough but was unsure how to describe fun. "Perhaps it would be best if I let you experience it"? 011 thought about it for a second before responding. "Very well. I shall play your little game for now. So what must I do first"? "Well, for starters, could you please flip that table up on it legs again? I don't think Pinkie Pie will appreciate it if you left it like that... Please"? 011 did what she asked and used his magic to flip the table back on its four wooden legs. "Done. Have I achieved Fun or Dance yet"? Asked 011 feeling as though he had completed her task of learning fun. Fluttershy gave a small laugh. "Not yet, come on. I'd like you to meet the rest of my friends". 011 followed Fluttershy. Music began playing and everypony began talking to each other. All except for one dark pink mare ,with Grapes and a strawberry for a cutie mark, who stared at the half destroyed punch bowl with watery eyes.
"Silver, I'd like you to meet Pinkie Pie. One of my best friends". 011 saw a pink smiling mare standing right in front of him. Her mane and tail was like cotton candy. And for whatever reason, she was bouncing up and down. "HelloMr.Changeling!Nicetomeetyou, I'mPinkiePieandIthrewthispartyjustforyou!Ihopewecanbecomefriends! AreyougoingtobestayinginPonyville? ThatwouldbesoawesomeifyoudidbecauseIhavesomuchtoshowyouaroundPonyville! Doyoulikecake? Orpie? Orboth? BecauseIlikeboth! *gasp* Maybewecanbecomecakepiebuddies! Wouldn'tthatbesomethingcool"?! PinkiePie seemed to have gotten closer and closer to 011 with every word she spoke. By the point she had finished talking, she was right in 011's face while balancing on her two front hooves. 011 seemed a little worried for his own safety. He was also amazed by how fast she could talk, especially since she hadn't taken a second to breathe for air after any sentences. "I see... Well... Thank you for throwing this Paretay Miss Pie. And I apologize for flipping the table and destroying your unusual glass ornament". "Oh it's okay silly billy.! Ooh, looks like Bon Bon's playing pin the tail on the donkey! Be back if a jiffy"! She then disappeared from 011's eyes leaving only a cloudy version of herself before it faded from view slowly. 011 turned to Fluttershy. "You have such an unusual friend". "Don't worry, She's just being Pinkie Pie". said Fluttershy with a smile. 011 just wondered if "being Pinkie Pie" was supposed to be a good thing or a bad thing. "What must I do now"? asked 011. "Well, I still have a couple of other friends I would like you to meet. They may not really be as... fun as Pinkie but they're my best friends and I love them. Please follow me". 011 followed Fluttershy and thought to himself. "Fun must be pony talk for torture".
Author's Note
Pinkie's character is very challenging for me. I hope I managed to write a good enough impression of her. Glad I managed to get this chapter out so quickly :D
No peace for the changeling
The party music seemed to be getting louder with each passing minute. Being a changeling, 011 did not understand music so to him it was nothing more than an irritating noise. "This sound is beginning to hurt my ears"! He complained to Fluttershy who was bringing 011 over to meet her other friends that 011 had yet to meet. "Oh dear. ummm... well I could talk to Pie about turning the volume down if you want"? Asked Fluttershy, wanting the changeling to enjoy his first of hopefully many nights in Ponyville. "I would appreciate it". He replied. Fluttershy left to find Pinkie Pie, leaving 011 alone. As the changeling watched Fluttershy appear from his sight, his mouth formed a smile. "Now that she's been dealt with, I can now get out of this foul place". Unfortunately for 011, he did not know where the exit was causing his smile to be short lived. "... Grak'ien statla". He muttered before moving in a single direction on his quest to find the exit.
After a few minutes of fighting through the huge crowd of ponies, 011 saw the rectangular gap which allowed access inside and outside of a building, believed to be called a door. His eyes lit up and he smiled once again and for whatever reason was able to emit some sort of *Squee* sound. He moved closer and closer to the door until he was suddenly met by an orange mare with some type of headwear who had stepped in front of him, blocking his path to freedom the look on her face seemed angry. 011 did not feel in the mood for this nonsense and spoke. "May I help you with something"? The mare looked at him in his eyes and responded. "Yeah. Why are one of you changelings here"? she said harshly. 011 gave a light chuckle. Normally he would have just teleported her out of the way for speaking like that but to him, it was a nice change to see some pony who didn't want to try to be friends with him. If anything, he preferred her hostility to the kindness every pony else had given him. "If you must know, I have been forced to live in this accursed town for the next few days thanks to your princess". He replied. "Then y'all better watch yer back if ah were you. If y'all try to hurt any pony here, ah be coming for you". The orange pony walked away, barging 011 to the left as she left. Eventually she was nowhere to be seen and 011 was left with his own thoughts. "At least she makes a change from all of these other ponies". He thought as he was about attempt to leave the party again. However... "Silver? Oh there you are". "CHRYSALIS WHY DO YOU CURSE ME "! He screamed in his head as he began to get frustrated. He turned round from the door and faced Fluttershy who had just walked up to his side. "I got Pinkie to turn down the music for you". She said with a smile. "Great". Replied the changeling who gave a slight disheartened moan seeing how he hoped that she would have taken longer to convince the Pink pony to turn the music down.
Fluttershy had pulled 011 back into the center of the party where 011 was forced to meet several other ponies including a couple of mares called Lyra and Bonbon who seemed friendly enough apart from the fact that the one called Lyra kept asking, even begging for 011 to turn into some type of creature called a "Human". Eventually she got dragged away by the other mare, Bonbon. When 011 was alone with Fluttershy, he felt that he should ask about the orange mare he had met earlier. "I must ask yellow pegasus, moments ago, an orange mare walked up to me and threatened me about leaving her friends alone. Do you know who that is"? Fluttershy thought for a minute, there were a few orange ponies around at the party which made it hard to identify. "Was she wearing a hat"? She asked. "Yes. She also seemed to speak weird as though her voice was twisted". Replied 011 describing the pony as best he could. "... I think you mean she had an accent. And yes, I do know her. She's one of my best friends". "Another one"? thought 011 as this wasn't the first time he had heard the pegasus say that about some pony. "Her name is Applejack. She runs Sweet Apple Acres. I'm glad you met her... sort of". She said uncertain if they would get along. Only time would tell. "I feel that I must ask. Where will I be living during my suffering here in this town"? Fluttershy gave him a disapproving look as he could have found a better way to ask instead of being so rude. Nonetheless, she answered his question. "You'll be living in this house. I hope you like it". 011 looked around, noticing that furniture had already been delivered. There were chairs, a dining table and a couple of cupboards placed against the sides of the walls. "I must admit, it is better than where I lived back at the hive". He said sounding impressed. He tried out the chair nearest to him and sat down. It was very comfy for the changeling who had never owned furniture before. He got off of the chair feeling satisfied with it and began to head upstairs. "I must try out the new bed as well. I hope it is as comfy as the chair". He said with enthusiasm as he was halfway up the stairs already. "But Silver, what if you fall asleep? You'll miss the rest of the party"! Asked Fluttershy a little worried. 011 just stopped in his tracks and faced Fluttershy before saying. "Oh dear, what a shame. It would be so heart rendering if I were to miss the rest of this party". Replied 011 mockingly. Lucky for him that Fluttershy did not notice his sarcasm. "Well if you're sure, I could come and wake you in half an hour if you'd like". "Thanks but I'll be fine". Fluttershy then left 011, feeling somewhat suspicious. 011 gave a sigh of relief. "Well if I can't escape, at least I can get some peace and qui-". "Ooh, Silver! Silver! Come over here! You have got to see this"! Came a recognizable voice which belonged to a certain pink earth pony.
"BUCKING TARTARUS"!!!!
Author's Note
Sorry but I kind of rushed this chapter. I'm trying to get another story onto FIMfiction which is still being written at the moment.
"What is it Pink Pony"? Asked 011 though gritted teeth as he forced a himself to sound as friendly as possible even though he wasn't doing too good a job of it. The Pink pony known as Pinkie Pie had hopped over and spoke. "You have to come and see this! Its like, the most supertastic funnest thing EVER"! She squealed happily, unable to contain her excitement. 011 Sighed. "Very well, if I must". It seemed that going to sleep would have to wait a little while longer as Pinkie literally dragged 011 by his front hole filled hoof over to the other side of the room where several ponies were already standing around in a circle. As soon as they noticed Pinkie approaching with her new friend, they made a hole so that they could get though to the middle of the circle. 011 was met with several new smiling faces of who he had yet to meet. The second 011 and Pinkie stood in the center of the circle, everypony around them became silent and looked at 011 as though they were expecting him to do something. 011 couldn't help but feel creeped out by their staring faces and turned to Pinkie to ask what was going on until he jumped with shock as he noticed that Pinkie was also making the same face as the others. However, she was right in the changelings face which in honesty would make anything jump out of its skin if they weren't expecting it. As soon as he got over nearly suffering a heart attack, he asked. "Why is everypony staring at me like this"? He asked immediately dropping his "Friendly" attitude. All he got in response was something he couldn't understand due to the speed that Pinkie Pie was talking at. "PINTHETAILONTHEPONYOFCOURSESILLY"!! "Perhaps you could speak slower? I did not understand a single word you just spoke". Pinkie did exactly what he said. However, "p-i-n... t-h-e... T-a-i-l... o-". "Just stop"! Demanded the changeling getting annoyed with the pony (At least more annoyed than he was with her before). "This is getting us nowhere. You, what is she trying to say"? Asked 011 pointing to one of the ponies surrounding him. The pony he pointed at stepped forward and spoke. "She wants you to play pin the tail on the pony". She said simply. "...Not a chance". Was all the changeling responded before trying to make his way through the pony ring. Before he even got the chance to get through them, he felt something instantly wrap around his two hind legs nearly causing him to trip. He turned round and noticed that the Pink pony now had a firm grip on his legs and was refusing to let go. "Will you let go"? "Aw come on, just give it a go. Please"?
Everypony surrounding the pair cheered watched in awe, interested on what the changeling was going to do. 011 noticed a blindfold suddenly cover his eyes and that he was suddenly spun round several times. When he came to a stop, he wobbled around nearly losing his balance. He then stood still, not exactly sure what to do next until somepony from behind, probably Pinkie, nudged him forwards a couple of times until he began walking himself with his hoof holding the fake tail was stretched out in front of him. He walked cautiously a few meters until the pin on the tail got stuck into something. He used his magic to take off the blindfold and saw he had hit the picture of the pony on its muzzle. Seeing how ponies usually don't have tails on their faces, 011 assumed that he had failed. However he was surprised to hear the ponies behind him cheer. He turned round from the wall to see the ponies smiling and stomping their hooves for him. The next thing he knew, he was pulled into a bone crushing hug by none other than Pinkie Pie. "I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT! WELL DONE"! She yelled in joy as she kept accidentally crushing the changeling up to the point where he felt that his eyes were going to pop out of his skull. Pinkie released him and gave the biggest smile out of the whole audience of ponies around them. Fluttershy stepped out of the crowd and met them both who smiled (well Pinkie did anyway, 011 just nodded as to simply say *HI*). "Way to go Silver. You did well". She softly said. "But I did not stick the tail in the right place. Why is everypony cheering"? "You gave the courage to try at least, and that's all that matters. They're cheering because you gave it a go". She responded before giving 011 a much gentle hug compared to Pinkies crushing hug of death. "What is with ponies and hugging"? 011 thought to himself as this had to be the fifth hug he had received in total (most of them being from Fluttershy). Once she broke the hug, she spoke. "Now Silver, what do you say to Pinkie for showing you fun"? 011 rolled his eyes and turned to Pinkie Pie. "Pink one"? He began. "Yes Silvy"? She gleefully asked. "... You are going to be the death of me". He said with nearly no emotion in his voice. Fluttershy glared at 011 who didn't notice. Pinkie however just laughed and said. "You're welcome Silvy". Before patting his head and bounced off. "So, do you want to go back upstairs"? asked Fluttershy. 011 looked at her, then to the stairs leading to the bedroom and then to all the ponies who had now gone back to doing whatever they were doing before the whole argument from earlier. 011 then looked back to Fluttershy and responded. "I suppose sleep can wait for another ten minutes. But only ten". He replied. Fluttershy smiled happily and the both of them headed over to meet some more ponies.
The filly and the changeling
Next morning came and everypony was up and going about their daily routines, apart from one changeling who seemed to be inside his new home. 011 had already received fifty bits from Celestia in order to buy food for the week. Pony food such as apples and pies were nice but to changelings, love was their main food supply as well as a power source. However, it was very unlikely that anypony was just going to run up to 011's door, smash it down and force him to suck their love out of them. So for now, apples and vegetables would have to do for today as the changeling gathered ten bits together and began to open the door which would lead him to the outside world of Ponyville. The door swung open and 011 stepped outside before closing the door. Everypony near him turned their heads to see the changeling. A couple of them seemed to be afraid as they galloped away from him. Even though 011 had come into contact with most of the town at the party yesterday, 011 just wanted to be left alone. Most ponies were happy to leave him be, even stay several blocks away from 011. But others would either wave, say hi or even try to talk to the changeling who just ignored them.
011 began his journey to the market. On the way, 011 looked around at his surroundings, finding himself hating the town more and more with every second he spent in it. He looked up to the sky and noticed the shining sun slowly burning his face, and he hated it. He looked left and noticed ponies smiling and waving at him, and he hated it. He looked right and saw ponies hating him, and he hated it. He even hated having to walk on pony soil with his bare hoofs. With all his complaining he may as well have been walking on lava. At least it was something to do to pass the time as the market was a five minute walk. The worst five minutes 011 had ever spent in his life.
Back at the hive it was different. 011 could walk the slime infested tunnels of the hive with pride. Everywhere he looked, he saw changeling soldiers saluting him whenever he passed by. There was no sun to burn his eyes seeing how most of the hive was underground. His hoof would send out echoes down the longest tunnel making any changeling sound powerful and important thanks to the cold hard ground which sent out clank sounds with every hoofstep. He could even notice changeling parents having fun with their own children by chasing them playfully which was always a happy sight to anypony, it seemed like paradise to him. In Ponyville however, there was none of that. No respect for him, the sun frying his eyes, his hoofs sinking into the noiseless dirt, there weren't even any fillies around as far as he could see. Just adult ponies.
011 got so caught up in his complaining that he almost walked into a stall. He made it to the market at last. At least he managed to find it well enough. Now all he needed to do was to find whoever sold apples. 011 looked up to the signs on every stall, all he saw was cherries, vegetables and homemade jam for sale. The apples were probably deeper within the market. He only took a few simple steps before somepony tried to speak to him. "Howdy there". Came a voice from behind. Whoever it was, they sounded a lot like that rude farmer pony from the party last night. However, it did not matter as 011 just ignored it and kept walking in the same direction he was heading. But no matter how hard he tried to ignore the voice, it just kept repeating itself louder and louder each time. "Hey mister". "Where are y'all goin"? "Hello"? "are y'all even listening ta me"? Enough was enough. 011 turned round to the sound of the voice and was about to yell in the pony's face to leave him alone. There was one problem, 011 noticed that there was nopony standing in front of him. He looked round seeing that nopony was paying too much attention to him. "Probably some foolish pony playing with my mind". He thought, until, "Hey, down here"! 011 looked down noticing a young smiling filly with yellowish fur, a red mane and tail, and a huge bow on the top of her head. 011's anger lowered as shouting at a kid would be a horrible thing to do even for a changeling. It didn't stop him from being angry but at least he kept it to himself. "Yes, what is it youngling"? He asked hoping to get underway as soon as possible. "Do y'all need some help around? ya seem lost"? She innocently asked as her big red eyes stared at the changeling. "No thank you little one". 011 replied. "I am able to find my way around this... market without assistance. So if you would excuse me, I need to get to the apple stall". 011 headed away from the yellow earth pony until she spoke again. "But the apple stall is the other way". This got 011 to stop in his tracks and looked at the young pony who pointed in the opposite direction of where the changeling was once heading. "... yes, I know of that". He lied before turning round. He walked past the filly and headed to where she had just pointed. 011 saw the apple stall barely. It looked as though nopony was there at it. It didn't matter. 011 kept heading in that direction, focusing on nothing else. "So are y'all new ta Ponyville"? 011 looked down on his left noticing the young filly was following him. He then faced the upcoming stall again but decided to answer her questions. After all, it didn't seem likely that it would end up the same way as last time with Twilight. "yes. I arrived yesterday". He quickly spoke. "And you're a changeling"? She asked excitedly as she had never seen one before. Even though she had been at the Canterlot wedding on the day of the invasion, she had only seen Chrysalis when she had transformed from Candence to her original form. The rest of the invasion she had spent within the safety of the castle. "I would expect that to be obvious to everypony, but yes". "Do ya like it here in Ponyville"? "no I do not. I hate it and I'll be leaving the first chance I get". " Do changelings eat pony food"? "I wouldn't be at the market if I didn't, so yes". "Do y'all think I can be yer friend"? 011 stopped in his tracks. The younger pony walked a couple more steps before her reflexes kicked in and stopped herself. "... You want to be friends with me"? asked the confused changeling, looking down at the young filly who stared up at him. "Why wouldn't I? Ya seem like you need a friend what with y'all being a loner". A little insulting but 011 forgot about it and thought about whether he should accept this young pony's friendship. After a minute or two of thinking, he had his answer. "...Very well, I shall accept your offer of friendship". He said slowly wondering if he had just made a good decision or a bad one. He stuck out his hoof to shake on becoming friends but instead was surprised to find the young filly hugging his other hoof. 011 couldn't help but pat the young filly on the head. Her innocence made 011 feel as though she could be trusted. She seemed to mean no harm to him and even had the courage to attempt to make friends with him, a creature of another species."What is your name young one"? asked 011 actually feeling like he wanted to know the young child better. "Ah'm Applebloom. what about you"? Applebloom broke the hug and looked up to 011 who had a smile on his face. "You may call me... 011". He simply said, exposing his real name to a pony for the first time. "So d'ya still want ta get sum apples"? "I would. Please lead the way young Applebloom".
Author's Note
I had two ways of going with this chapter, either the version you have just read, or a lengthy arguement with Applejack. It was a tough decision but I like this one more. I hope you do too ^^
As the pair headed over to the apple stall, Applebloom told 011 about her numerous amount of times trying to earn her cutie mark as she did not have one yet. 011 couldn't help but be facinated as she must have tried over a hundred different things in order to gain it, but in vain. She seemed kind of bummed out as her head lowered and her happiness was replaced with sadness. 011 noticed this quickly. He may have been of a different species but he did feel pity for the child. "Young Applebloom...". Applebloom looked up to the changeling with huge iris filled eyes. "I may not fully understand much about cutie marks; as I myself shall never receive one. But please understand this, your time will come for you to shine like a star in the night sky. As I once said to somepony else not so long ago, persistence can be the key to success. But to only those who are properly prepared for the path that lies ahead. Do you know what I mean young Applebloom"? The filly thought deeply, trying to put together what 011 had just told her. Eventually she looked up and shook her head meaning she had no idea what he was talking about. 011 rolled his eyes and sighed. She was just a filly after all. He tried to repeat himself, trying to dumb his words down so that she could understand. "What I am trying to tell you young Applebloom, is that instead of attempting to find your special talent by attempting multiple random activities, you must plan ahead and focus". "What do ya mean"? asked Applebloom curiously. "Allow me to give an example. What do you consider yourself to be good at"? Applebloom thought hard. She had managed to help buck apples at the farm, rebuild the cutie mark crusader clubhouse when it was given to her and her friends by Applejack and was able to help Granny Smith at making Zap apple Jam. "Well, ah seem to be able to do stuff just fine around the farm".
What 011 hadn't noticed was that during his talk with Applebloom, was that somepony was now standing behind the apple stall, and it was the pony 011 was not hoping to meet. "What are ya doing here"? Snorted Applejack as she saw the changeling standing in front of her apple stall. "Nice to meet you as well". Replied the changeling cheekily. "Anyway, I had come to buy some apples. I take it you are the one in charge of this stall"? "Yeah, ah am. Me and ma little sister who was supposed ta be taking care of the stall while ah was gone". She said eyeing the young filly next to 011. She smiled sheepishly before quickly trotting over to her big sisters side. "And what were ya doin when I left and told ya teh look after mah apples"? Asked the orange mare. "Ah was just trying ta help ma new friend round was all Big sis. Honest". She said simply. Applejack looked back at 011. She was getting quite mad and 011 could see it in her eyes. She must not have wanted her little sister to be friends with something that was considered to be evil. All she was able to say was. "Stay. Away. From my family". She spoke darkly. 011 narrowed his eyes. "Very well. Bielti'gen tu". "Beehel ta what now"? asked the farmer pony. 011 just walked away. Not back home but towards the outskirts of the town. Applejack watched him go and faced her little sister. She sat down next to her and talked to her. "Listen lil sis. Ah know ya think that that changeling is friendly and all. But he ain't. Ah don't want ya talking ta him anymore. ya hear"? Applebloom stepped back away from her big sister. "Applejack! 011's a nice po... uh... changeling. he's kind and helpful... and... and...". Applebloom remember earlier where she saw a tear drip down the side of the changelings face a few minutes ago. "And he has Feelings too! Ah don't care what ya think of him! He's ma friend and he's got a kind heart and ah'll prove it to you"! Applebloom quickly ran past her big sister who dived to the left to catched her seeing how she was still sitting down and hadn't enough time to sit up. She ran in the direction 011 had gone. All she could hear was her big sister calling for her to come back.
011 had run past the outskirts of Ponyville and into the Everfree forest. Not deep enough so that he'd be lost but deep enough so that he could be alone. He just sat on a log and thought to himself. He just wanted to go back to the hive. That was all he wanted right now as he envisioned it in his mind. Once he would return, he would rid the hive of Chrysalis and 002 would be his new leader. The new leader of all the changelings. And even if he could achieve such a victory, it still didn't matter as the one precious thing he once held onto would still be lost from him forever. He held up his locket and opened it up. He took a long look at what was inside before carefully shutting it and muttering. "I promise I won't give up Sally. I will find a way to stop the tyranny that has taken you". He lowered the locket and looked up to the sky. It was still the afternoon but the day was moving fast. "I owe you that much". *snap* Something had stepped on a twig. 011's reflexes kicked in as he turned round, ready to strike whatever was about to attack him. It was a good thing 011 didn't attack on instinct because standing in front of him was Applebloom. She must have tried to find him after earlier. "Young Applebloom, You should know that the forest is no place for somepony as small and defenceless as yourself". "Ah'm not defenseless". Applebloom pouted. "An besides, Ah thought y'all could use some company. Y'all feeling better"? 011 smiled at her. "I am fine. I just want to go back home". He admitted. "Don't y'all like it here in Ponyville 011"? Asked Applebloom taking a step forward towards the changeling whose smile quickly became a frown. "... I am not too fond of it, I admit that. Not to mention that the residents hate me. It does not matter to me what they think but they prefer to judge on looks instead of their true nature... just like I have. Perhaps 002 was right... No, young Applebloom. I do not like it at all. I'm sorry but that is my opinion". Applebloom looked down, seemingly disappointed. "Ah understand". Was all she said to 011. 011's ear twitched as he picked up some distant noise. It was probably nothing but best to stay alert. He walked over to Applebloom and placed his hoof on her shoulder. This got her to face him as he spoke. "Please understand from MY point of view young Applebloom. Ponies have brought me much pain and misery in my past as well as now with your sister. But you and a rare collection of others have offered me so much. I hope that I in time can return the favor". There seemed to be some sort of grunt noise. Closer than the last sound. Maybe some sort of small wild animal? Applebloom just nodded, accepting his theory. "Okay, ah guesss that's fair enough". Applebloom said before looking down once more. 011 looked behind himself. His ear twicthed as he heard something. Something dangerous "Young Applebloom, I believe you should go".
The Uberling just stood still, analysing the two targets that sat in front of it. It looked back and forth trying to realize which one was its primary target. "Applebloom. Run quick. It won't keep standing there for much longer". said 011 to Applebloom while keeping still "But what about yaself"? Applebloom asked taking a step forward. This was a bad move as the Uberling noticed it and took a step forwad of its own, its hindhoof connecting with the forest ground was enough to nearly knock the poor earth pony off of her hooves. It snarled and raised its blade arm. "I'll be fine. Just go! NOW"! 011 suddenly charged at the Uberling which roared in surprise. Applebloom did what 011 told her and ran for her life back to Ponyville. She didn't dare look back as all she heard was magic shots firing from 011's horn and the Uberling screeching as it tried to slice 011 in half, cutting several trees as it tried.
The uberling kept swinging its blade left and right at 011 trying to hit him. Luckily its attacks were sloppy and easy to avoid as 011 managed to either jump back or duck under its swinging arm. However he had to do something other than just avoid its blade as he wouldn't be able to dodge it for much longer what with his energy lowering with each jump and ducking attempt. The uberling may have seemed like a mindless monster but in truth, it was quite smart as it swung its arm once more, this time aiming at 011 hooves to catch him off guard. 011 did not expect the creature to swing its blade so low. 011 quickly jumped and barely managed to keep his hooves attached to his legs, however the tip of his hindhoof came into contact with the blade and left a small cut which was considered lucky seeing how it could have been much worse. This was enough to throw 011 off balance and land him onto his back. The uberling gave a low pitched laugh and prepared the final blow as it took no hesitation in bringing its hoof up into the air and was about to bring it down. 011 thought fast and was able to quickly use his magic to levitate the log he had been sitting on from earlier and swung it round clockwise towards the uberlings right side at an incredible speed. The log collided with the bladed hoof and smashed upon impact. The log forced the uberlings bladed arm to swing to the right and become stuck in a thick tree, burying itself half a meter into its bark. The uberling tried to pull the blade out of the tree, ignoring the changeling for a few seconds as it tried wrapping its other forehoof round the stuck one and pulling with all its might, but was unable to do so. 011 took this advantage by getting to his hoofs then quickly managed to fly quickly up to the uberlings face and before reaching it, he swung his hind hooves towards the front of his body and delivered a strong buck to the middle of the monsters ugly head, powerful enough to dent its helmet. The collision with the helmet allowed 011 to bounce back up into the air, doing a backflip as he went, and land on all four hoofs and looked up to see the uberling screech in pain, trying to use its shielded hoof in a vain attempt to soothe the injury. With rage, the uberling pulled its hoof free at last from the tree with incredible strength, although it managed to injure its own hoof because the blade had been slightly pulled out of its skin causing a small amount of bleeding. The uberling didn't care or even notice the damage it had done to itself as the elimination of its target was its main concern as it growled ferociously.
Back at the apple stand, Applejack had been doing some serious thinking about what her lil sister had told her a few minutes ago, only moments after she ran off to find the changeling. There was no doubt she was a little upset with herself. Maybe the changeling didn't mean any harm. However, for Applejack, there was one simple way to find out. Ask the changeling a simple question and determined whether he was lying or not. She wasn't the element of honesty for nothing after all. It was a foolproof plan. If the changeling was planning on returning which put some guilt on her mind. Before she had another second to think about what she should do, she saw her little sister running up to her as fast as she could. She looked scared as though she had seen a ghost, or something worse. Applejack met her halfway, running up to her and embracing her little sister, glad that she was safe and sound. Nopony else seemed to pay attention to them as they themselves were too busy. They hugged for at least twenty seconds before Applebloom broke the silence with. "Applejack! Ya have ta do sumthing! Theres a...a... monster in the Everfree forest that could destroy 011 and the town if we don't do sumthing"! She managed to say as quickly as she possibly could before pulling on Applejacks hoof trying to get her to move but with no success. Applejack kept looking at her sister, confused. "Applebloom, ah'm pretty sure that whatever y'all saw was nothing more than jest a simple-". Applejack was suddenly cut off as a huge roar came from the forest which was loud enough to nearly burst her eardrums, whatever it was sounded like it was in pain. Everyponys attention was now directed to the direction that the sound came from.
011 looked up to the uberlings horn, it began to glow green and became brighter and brighter with each passing second. Assuming that the worst would happen, 011 turned tail and ran away from the uberling knowing that whatever it was about to do would likely kill him. He quickly turned his head upon hearing a small thundering sound and saw a big green ball of electricity racing towards him at tremendous speed. The ball flew past him, smashed into the ground and exploded with a deafening boom. The ball had missed 011 from more than ten meters away but the force of the explosion was powerful enough to knock the changeling off of his hoofs and land into the ground. 011 tried his best to get up despite that he was now suffering a lot of pain in one of his back legs. He looked over his shoulder to see the uberling right in front of him, raising its arm like blade for the final swing. 011 readied a magic bolt in his horn, powerful enough to blow through the uberlings helmet. If he was going to die, he would die fighting. But that moment did not come as something large rustled though the trees, distracting both 011 and the uberling for a few moments. Soon enough, a large gren snake rose from the bushes. But not just any snake, this one had been tied in a knot and seemed angry the moment its eerie eyes noticed 011. "Oh no. Not this thing again". Groaned 011 with a hint of worry.
Author's Note
So sorry for the long delay but the last few weeks at college is taking its toll so the next chapter may also end up being a few days late. This chapter may sound slightly rushed but I'll try and make up for it next time ^^
Hi everypony, sorry I haven't been working on this fanfic lately but I've been planning on deleting it and rewriting it seeing how my writing has improved over the last month.
The story will stay the same, just with a few different or newly added parts onto it as well as more detailed descriptions as to what is supposed to happen in the story because I don't think I managed to achieve that before. Anyway, the story will have the same name "friendly enemy" and will be submitted to the same groups that this one is in for the time being.
The first chapter will be up in about a weeks time and this one will be taken down. Any questions you want to ask about this, please mention it on my blog.
Friendly Enemy rewritten uploaded
I've finally managed to upload the first rewritten chapter of Friendly Enemy. If you want to still read the story, from the beginning, here is a link
http://www.fimfiction.net/story/134598/a-friendly-enemy-rewritten
Or you can check out my channel to find it if it makes it any easier.
Also this story, not the rewritten one, the original friendly enemy will be kept online for two weeks before being deleted. The reason I'm not deleting it now is so that everybody who liked the story but hasn't subscribed to me has enough of a chance to see this update and check out the rewritten version.
That's all my news from this chapter. Hope you enjoy the rewritten version just as much as I liked typing it :)