Isaiah kept to his schedule of helping Queen Chrysalis in the early mornings. Instead of carrying his usual of food and medical supplies for the changeling, he carried a large hunk of venison over his shoulder with a large rag separating the flesh from his shirt. An early morning kill that he hoped the queen would accept; the man lacked the money to buy food from the Ponyville market. He assumed that the changeling queen ate meat, considering she had impressive canines he could see every time she spoke or grinned.

The human would be slightly annoyed if Chrysalis refused to have any of the deer he hunted especially for her; Isaiah knew that he couldn’t eat the whole thing alone. He lacked the proper supplies to preserve the meat for later consumption and such a large amount would be wasted.

As soon as the sun peeped of the horizon, Isaiah grabbed his Mosin-Nagant and set out to hunt for meat, both for him and the changeling. The search and hunt was shorter than he expected it to be, only half an hour was spent for his quarry to expose itself to him. When he pulled the trigger, the deer and it’s lungs had no chance against the 7.62x54mmR’s strength. Thankfully for him, skinning and dressing was fast and easy; the skin he left at his shelter would need to be processed before it could be up to any use.

The left portion of the deer’s meaty ribs didn’t mind Isaiah too much as he carried it on his shoulders. He still had to properly cook it for the two of them, rather than going ahead and cooking it, Isaiah decided to wait until her reunited with the queen.

Farther and farther he went, the familiar sights began to grow. In a matter of time, Isaiah located the cave where Queen Chrysalis hid deep inside; out of the way of any possible dangers to her. The man couldn’t but help feel that he was being held responsible for the queen’s safety rather than her own changelings. Even as he began to venture inside the cave, his eyes grazed the surrounding of the mouth for trap placements incase something got the idea to snoop around.

With one hand holding onto the ribs and the other grasping the flashlight, Isaiah traversed the uneven surface of the cave’s floors. The unidentifiable rock of the cave felt alien to him as he marched deeper and farther.

Again like the second time he ventured in to the cave, the buzzing sound of the changeling minor’s wings came from behind. Isaiah assumed that the chitin covered creature eyed the ribs he carried upon his shoulder, but assumed his way to the changeling queen.

This time, Isaiah didn’t need assistance from the minor, he was able find the passageway that lead to the queen’s chambers without trouble. As the flashlight’s beamed traced the ground for any worrisome rocks, he spotted a set of tracks that shared a resemblance to the other changelings but were much bigger though. Isaiah took the set of tracks as a sign that the queen was finally getting up and about.

Isaiah flashed the changeling queen his usual friendly smile when she looked up to him when he entered the chamber. He could see her exciting eyes snap to the uncooked meat on his shoulder. She didn’t express any distaste or interest towards the venison.

The man gently tossed the ribs onto the ground. “I hope you’re able to eat some deer…”

“I can,” Queen Chrysalis bagen. “but I prefer that it be cooked before I even dare take a single bite. I’m surprised that you decided to bring me flesh of an animal rather than fruit like you usually do.”

He sighed in relief at the changeling’s answer. “I was hoping that you’re able to eat meat. Sorry if it’s something that isn’t exactly desired, it’s all I can provide for now until I get more money. I’m using what money I have left for emergencies; sorry but apples and mangos are gonna have to wait.”

“Isaiah, any food that you provide for me is more than enough. Not only are you helping me, you’re also helping my changelings too. Fruit or flesh, either way they’re greatly appreciated; thankyou.”

“Hey don’t worry Chrysalis’s, I’m glad to help. Now I think that we should take this rack of ribs outside and start an early morning BBQ.” When Isaiah bent down to carry the deer meat outside, he almost tumbled town when the ribs were magically forced down. “What the?”

“There’s not need to take the flesh outside. I can simply start a fire inside here with the assistance of my magic.”

“Wait,” Isaiah interrupted before she could start her next sentence. “wouldn’t the smoke choke us in here? There’s no ventilation in here. Plus, don’t you need to save your magic?”

The queen poked her right, hole covered hoof towards the ceiling of the chamber. Isaiah had to slightly strain his eyes to see what she was directing at. “I’m not sure if your eyes are able to see it with the lack of light, but there’s ventilation shafts traveling throughout and around the cave. When the smoke of the fire rises, it’ll easily drift away with little difficulty out of our way.”

“And your magic?”

“Worry not, I have some in my reserves; a little used for simple magic fire wouldn’t hurt.” Queen Chrysalis’s twisted horn obtained a green glow. She then focused her attention on the deer ribs, and as she did, green flames began to surround the meat.

The human saw that the queen was right, the smoke emitting from the fire rose to the roof and disappeared. Isaiah quickly diverted his attention back onto the cooking meat that sizzled in the green flames.

“Ah crap, I forgot the seasoning.” The man joked, wanting to emit a reaction from the changeling queen.

“Oh well. Maybe next time.” She said flatly as she watched the meal cook.

Isaiah muttered under his breath.

Both the changeling queen and the human chose not to talk as the green fire cooked the venison with it’s magical flames. The greenish hue that came from it bathed the chamber and it’s occupants in odd color. Isaiah glanced away from the fire and to the changeling queen, marveling her mystic appearance.

Her eyes once captivated him as they reflected the flames, the holed dragonfly wings on her back also reflected the flames, giving them a green glossy appearance.

“Aside for the wings and carapace on her back, she doesn't even look like an insect at all.” Isaiah thought to himself as he continued to stare at Queen Chrysalis’s eyes.

There’s something that Isaiah loved about her eyes. Sure, he liked Princess Luna’s but Queen Chrysalis’s were so unique on a different scale. Just the way her black, slit pupils surrounded by the two layers of irises, the inner being teal and the outer being green with a hint of darkblue close to the eyelids, captivated him.

“It’s rude to stare into someone’s eyes while they’re not focused on you; especially to a queen…” She stated, her intoxicating voice breaking Isaiah back into reality.

“Oops, I didn’t realize I was staring. It’s hard not to get lost in those amazing eyes of your Queen Chrysalis; I can’t help it.” Isaiah praised.

Chrysalis didn’t expect a compliment coming from him considering that she just scolded him, and with an unenthusiastic voice she said, “Thank you.”

Isaiah’s attitude deflated when she flatly replied to his compliment.

The queen noticed how the meat’s state and started to quell the flames surrounding the venison. Her stomach practically growled at her when the aroma of the meat wafted into her nose; she had to keep herself from diving into, the freshly cooked meat would burn her mouth.

She glanced over to Isaiah when she heard his stomach growl in hunger. “Have you yet to eat?”

The man shook his head. “Right as I woke up, I went out to hunt for you. I wa--”

“I can’t bare myself to eat this alone while you’re hungry; especially when you’re the one who hunted it. Considering what you’ve been doing for be, uninviting you to join me would be inappropriate.” The queen invited him.

He gave her a smile of thanks and reached out to grab a rib. The bone were hot to the touch but it didn’t deter him from driving on with what he wanted. Isaiah reached out another hand and gripped a rib next to the first one in his hand. He began to pull the pieces away from each other until they split apart. The man repeated the process until several meat covered ribs became easily accessible.

Each of them grabbed a rib; both in hand and in magic. Neither of them didn’t bother to talk with each other as they consumed the meat. To Isaiah, the venison wasn’t as good as he wanted it to be, but to Chrysalis it didn’t mind her. They ignored pieces of fat, charred skin, and uneven cooked areas, the need for food was too great for them.

As time went on, bone after bone was tossed onto the stone floor of the chamber, creating a pile as they ate. And soon enough, Isaiah and Queen Chrysalis had their fill and shared a canteen of water with each other.

“I haven’t indulged in meat for so long, I forgot how good it is…” The changeling queen covered in bandages spoke to Isaiah.

The man chuckled, “Then I’ll be sure to bring back more for you; hell, maybe if we’re lucky enough, I’ll cook up a batch of fried chicken.”

“I’ve never had chicken that’s been fried, is it good?” The queen asked, unsure of the concept.

“Is it good?” He repeated with amusement in his voice. “Fried chicken is the most amazing thing that can be cooked after the collapse of civilization on Earth; maybe even here! Just give me some time to gather what’s needed and I’ll make us a batch, how does that sound?”

“Well, if you speak so fondly of ‘fried chicken’, then I must try it.” Queen Chrysalis answered Isaiah, making him clap his hands in approval and excitement.

“Trust me Queen Chrysalis, the chicken and I won’t let you down!” He promised the changeling queen.

She rolled her eyes at how excited the human was to fry chicken for her. True, she was interested in it, but not enough to deal with his excitement. When she fixated her mystic eyes back onto him, she could see is happy expression change into something wrong.

“Fuck, I almost forgot to tell you something that’s a pretty big deal…”

“Has a problem arisen?” The queen asked, curious to understand what changed his mood and worried him. “Are we in danger?”

Isaiah briefly scratched his head as he planned to express what was soon to happen if something wasn’t done. “Last night, I was informed of a small convoy that was being sent east to help supply some of the guards stationed there. Usually, it would be something to just shrug off and forget about it, but seeing how they’re being sent to hostilely deal with changelings-”

“CHANGELINGS?!” The changeling queen boomed, her voice echoing off the chamber’s walls like thunder; the human swore that he saw a flame ignite in her eyes.

“That’s what I was told; the pony who informed me had the balls to ask me if I wanted to join. The guards will be leaving tomorrow night with their shipment, I’m not really sure what they’re transporting, but I know whatever it is, it’s enough to draw our attention.” The man explained.

“And what is your idea on this?” She asked with a voice of suspicion towards the human to her side.

“What I think?” Isaiah began. “I think it’s pretty fucked up considering they’re intending to eradicate your kind despite what they’ve already done to y’all.” He paused for a second and questioned. “Have you made any attempts on peaceful negotiations?”

The changeling queen slightly dragged her attention away from the human, as if she was about to say something she would regret. “I can’t see myself negotiating with the ponies; no matter how hard I press, they’ll never listen or accept us for who we are…” The pile of bones began to smoke, the queen releasing her anger on the left overs. “If I even dared to show myself to the Equestrians, they would treat me like any monster. Attempting to talk with them would be a death sentence.”

The human had to close his eyes as the bones when up in bright, green flames.

“I could try talking with the princesses, I’m sure they’ll listen to me.”

“Don’t.” She quickly interjected. “Princess Celestia and Princess Luna would grow suspicious of you and potentially uncover my status. The royal sisters would believe that I either tricked you, or deem you as a traitor to the state; multiple modifiers would partake in the outcome of their reaction.”

Isaiah let out a huff of frustration. The man wanted to help, but the queen believed that nothing acceptable would come out of it. “Are you sure?”

The queen barely nodded her head. “I’m sure Isaiah, the Equestrians never change.”

He didn’t press any further and kept quiet; the changeling queen followed his behavior. The pair stayed silent as time ticked away in it’s infinite pattern. Inside Isaiah’s head, he tried to find a reasonable compromise for the queen and the princesses but lacked the details to form a good idea.

“I have proposal, but it’s something that's maybe too extreme and if you were to be caught in the action, you’d be viewed as a traitor and threat…” Queen Chrysalis said.

“It depends Chrysalis, what is it? I’m willing to take some risks if it means that any wrong doings would be ceased. And if I do get caught, I’ll reason as best as I can while shedding light on their actions.”

“I think it would be necessary for you to sabotage the convoy heading east for the changelings. Yes, it’s awfully dangerous and risky for you to do so but it’ll reduce the chances of my kind being unrightfully slain at the hooves of the Equestrians.”

Isaiah balled his hands into a fist. The man felt that the changelings were the victims from the start and deserved some respect, but also felt that he pledged his loyalty to the princesses even though Isaiah believed they and their subjects were in the wrong.

“How would I even sabotage the convoy? I can’t just go out and pick a fight with the guards without them knowing that I’m attacking; the princesses would give me high-hell if they ever found out it was me who did it.”

The changeling queen smirked as though she had a plan. “It’s not a matter of attacking the guards of the convoy, its how you deal with the supplies itself. I would advise sabotaging the supplies behind their back to the point that they’re rendered useless.”

“Why can’t I just steal the supplies, turn around and sell them? I bet I could find a deal--”

“That wouldn’t work.” The queen stated while shaking her head. “Majority of the supplies owned by them have certain spells that tracks where they are and have special insignias to prevent illegal distribution. And the chances of finding a dealer are highly unlikely; the princess's subjects are as loyal as a lapdog and will immediately report anything concerning.”

“Damn…” Isaiah muttered under his breath.

“It’s a waste, isn’t it? But alas, they need to be dealt with caution; stealing wouldn’t work.”

Again, the pair spent several more minutes thinking of plans to stop the convoy. Isaiah, had even thought of luring a manticore to intervene with the convoy and potentially destroy the supplies. But Chrysalis shot down the idea stating that the guards would easily deal with it without the need for violence.

Then, a brilliant idea spawned in Isaiah’s head. “Do you know the relationship between Equestrians and the Diamond Dogs?”

Her face contorted into confusion. “The Equestrian’s relationship depends with the Diamond Dog pack. While many of the packs tend to stay far away from Equestria and ignore them, there are some radical groups who are a threat to the ponies; but are few in numbers and are reclusive. Why does this all matter?” She informed before asking.

“Diamond Dogs are supposedly greedy, correct?” Isaiah asked, receiving a nod from the queen. “I’m thinking that I can bribe some of them to interfere with the convoy. Flash a little gold in front of them and they should do my bidding right?”

Queen Chrysalis chuckled, sending a wave of shivers down Isaiah’s spine. “A clever idea that holds so much potential and risks while serving as a way to begin conflict between the two groups and divert attention from the changelings. True, there maybe a few pathetic mongrels out there willing to take the chances for low pay, but despite being dogs, they are not loyal; soon as you place coin in their filthy paws, they’ll run away and try to turn you into the authorities in hope of receiving an award.”

“Are you sure,” He questioned. “I bet when I start threatening their lives, they’ll start to obey like the dogs they are.”

“Oh? How would you do that?” She puzzled with a hint of amusement in her voice.

“Queen Chrysalis, I can be very persuasive. Fear is a great way of controlling others into what you want them to do. If one ever tries running away, I’m sure that a paralyzing blow from a sledgehammer to the base of their spine will be a great reminder to it and it’s peers. Hell, if I need to, a shotgun blast to the groin would send a powerful message wouldn’t it? Trust me, they’ll obey me and fear will be my tool.”

“I like the sound of that. I never had a positive opinion on Diamond Dogs and I think very poorly of them.”

“Same here.” Isaiah agreed. “They’re nothing but trouble it seems. So far, every encounter I’ve had with them ends poorly; it’s like they’re begging to be killed when they try to start shit with me.”

“How so?”

The human grunted. “First time, one of the fuckers attacked me unprovoked. Thankfully when the ponies found out, I claimed self-defence and was uncharged. Second time, was when I went off and rescued a squad of guards who were raped and enslaved by a pack settled in a cave to the south; this time the princesses thanked me for it.”

Queen Chrysalis flashed Isaiah her canines when she smiled. “I’m glad we share the same opinions towards the inferior species. Soon, natural selection will sort them out…”

“What’s your beef with the Diamond Dogs?” Isaiah wondered.

“I’d rather not bore you with the details; Changelings and Diamond Dogs have been hostile at each other for hundreds of years. Now, I think it’s best if we return to the convoy…” She trailed off until Isaiah caught on to what she wanted.

“So are we agreeing to the bribing the Diamond Dogs idea? That’s all I can think of without actually getting involved in an attack.”

“In the mean time, your plan will have to do. While I believe your plan has many flaws, I think you can prove me wrong; I hope to see the later, Isaiah.”

“Same.” He agreed. “If they ever get the notion to run and tell, I’ll just deal with them like they’re vermin. In the back of my head, I have a feeling that finding a pack will be troublesome considering all the damage I’ve done to them as one; getting to talk to them is a whole new story.”

Chrysalis hummed as she thought aloud. “Although it was multiple years ago. I remember a small pack on the northern border of the Everfree Forest. But the possibility of the dogs still residing there is probably low due to your presence in the forest.”

“It doesn’t hurt to take a peek does it?”

She brought a hoof to her chin, “I guess not, but don’t burden yourself when you discover they’re not there.”

Isaiah got onto his feet and stretched his hands wide over his head will groaning. “Alright Queen Chrysalis, I best be going if i’m ever going to find those fucking dogs and use them to do my dirty work. Something’s telling me that I’m going in for quite the little adventure in the future…”

The man started his way out of the chamber before the changeling queen spoke out. “Isaiah, thankyou for risking your well being for me and my changelings. I don’t think I’ll ever comprehend how you’re able to help someone such as me, especially in my state.”

He stopped and turned around. “I think we’re going each other a favor in someway.”

The changeling queen wanted to ask what he meant but the man left her alone in the chamber with the green torches bathing her in green illumination.

<><><><><><>

A thin layer of sweat accumulated on Isaiah’s brow; swiping the perspiration away with his arm when small droplets began to trickle down as he huffed out heated air. The air of the shelter was hot and stuffy, making it feel like the inside was a oven baking at a hundred degrees, but the human didn’t let the uncomfortable feeling stop him from what he was doing.

As soon as Isaiah returned to his shelter, he began to gather his supplies for what he planned. His Mosin-Nagant 91-30 leaned against a shelf with a bandolier wrapped around it like vest; holding more than enough ammunition for a fight. The machete he recently started reutilizing rested next to a just-used grinding stone, it’s blade nice and sharp for the next unfortunate victim. Isaiah’s holster that was on his hip had it’s usual occupant; a well aged M1911 fit snuggly in the black leather holder. A single HE hand grenade with some string coiled around it fit snuggly with the bandolier he strapped it to.

If anyone saw the human with his equipment being gathered, they’d get the notion that the man was going into battle.

Isaiah wasn’t absolutely sure if his plan would stick together when it’s wheels were to be set in motion. All he could do is hope for the best and focus on the objective at hand.

The man quickly turned his head towards the shelter’s entrance when he heard sound of a teleportation spell.

“Isaiah~” He heard Luna’s voice chime from outside.

Isaiah cursed under his breath, as much as he enjoyed the princess's company, now was not the time, especially considering for what he had planed.

“Are you here my dearest friend?” She questioned aloud as she poked her head inside the shelter. “Isaiah are you ho-”

“Hey Luna, what’s going on?!” Isaiah yelled from the back, accidentally startling the princess of the night with is booming voice. “Something you need?”

When Princess Luna’s swiveling ears picked up his voice from the back of the shelter, she immediately set her way towards the man. As she did, the princess noticed some of his weapons set aside like they were ready to be used. But her attention on the weaponry was ceased as a warm hand set itself on her neck.

“Luna, is everything alright?” Isaiah asked as he rubbed her neck.

“I am. I thought I’d spend some time with my beloved friend before I go off and slumber for the day. How do you do?”

The man huffed as he motioned for her to follow him out of the stuffy shelter. “I’m doing alright I suppose, nothing much is happening as of yet.”

A devilish grin formed on her face while a small blushed formed. “If nothing happening, how about we do something; preferably with each other in the comfort of one another.” The mare reared onto her hind hooves and leaned onto the man. “I want you to rut me like the naughty little filly I am!”

She didn’t even bother to let him answer, instead she locked her mouth onto his. Isaiah, who became dazed at the sudden action, stood shocked and motionless as Luna tried to pry his lips apart and enter her tongue. His eyes slowly fell onto the princess’s face; her eyes closed, face contorted with a mad blush forming as her mouth attacked his.

Isaiah managed to gather his thoughts and responded as best as he could. Yes, the mare’s attempts were inviting to him but he needed to stick to his schedule. He struggled to gently guide the princess away from his comfort; the sight of her disheartened face tugged on his heartstrings.

“D-Did I do something wrong?” She asked with a concerned, timid voice.

The man immediately comforted the mare by rubbed behind her right ear. “Nonono, it’s just… I’m not really in the mood and I’m sorta busy at the moment.”

“Are you sure? Maybe we can try a different approach that--” She tried to reason before she was interrupted.

“I’m sorry Luna but now isn’t the time.” Isaiah countered the mare he held.

By the sound of her sigh, the man could tell that the princess was agitated. “What makes something so important that you must neglect me?”

“I’m getting low on cash, so I need to go out and reduce the chupa population and tag some ears. I wanna spend what time I have to go and hunt. Luna, I feel pretty bad for leaving you hanging but someone needs to get the job done.” He lied to the princess of the night.

She let out a low growl. “If you need bits, how come you won’t accept any from Tia and I? We have plenty to spare for you, and more so.”

“Luna, you know that I don’t like taking free handouts from those I care about without earning it.” Isaiah reminded the mare.

“This conversation is a lost cause, isn’t it Isaiah?”

The man shrugged his shoulders. “I guess it is.”

Princess Luna and Isaiah stood next to each other without speaking a single word. Both of them awkwardly avoided each other’s gazes. Thanks to the events that just transpired, the pair now face the unwanted feeling of one another’s company.

“Well Luna, I’m just gonna go on out. You’re free to stay here and listen to music if you want, you can even rest up a bit on my hammock.” Isaiah offered.

The alicron seemed to ponder the offer for a moment before answering. “Hmmm, your offer is quite interesting. A chance to listen from your music box, a nice hammock with your intoxicating scent covering it; how could I refuse your offer? I’ll take it Isaiah.”

“With your intoxicating scent covering it? That’s a little weird.” Isaiah thought to himself.

Isaiah went to where his Mosin-Nagant and the machete laid with Luna in tow. He gripped the fully loaded bandolier with the single hand grenade and draped it across his chest. The man then grabbed his rifle and slung it onto his back and slid the sharpened machete into its sheath on his hip.

He could see the princess of the night watch him as he donned himself. “It never hurts to arm yourself like the way I do.”

“I suppose…” Luna trailed as she nudged the sheathed machete with a shod hoof. The mare returned the hoof to her side and looked up at him with her cerulean eyes. “Please be careful when you’re out there Isaiah. I don’t know what I’d do if I lost such a dear friend such as yourself.”

“I promise.”

Again, Luna reared onto her hind hooves and leaned on Isaiah for support. “A promise sealed by a kiss?”

Isaiah let himself chuckle at the princess’s cheesy line. He brought his hands up to her; his right on her neck and his left behind her head. Slowly, the man guided Luna’s head so her lips could meet with his. In a heartbeat, Princess Luna thrusted her lips onto his and enjoying the close contact. The alicorn in Isaiah’s comfort had to resist from squealing in joy; the moment she shared with him felt like something from a fairy tale she used to read when she was a filly.

Soon enough, the princess ran out of breath and disconnected the lock. She quietly huffed for air as she brought herself back to all fours.

“For a good kisser, you don’t really last long…” Isaiah poked.

Luna swiftly jabbed his side with a hoof. “Oh hush yourself, didn’t you say that you were busy? Now go off into the forest and neglect me like you do.” She playfully accused.

He rolled his eyes at the princess’s accusation and left the confines of his shelter.

<><><><><><>

(Two hours later…)

Queen Chrysalis was right, Isaiah followed her directions of going north in the Everfree Forest. As he traversed through the thick vegetation, he spotted a trail of smoke rising into the blue sky; a possible campfire created by the Diamond Dogs.

Isaiah gripped his Mosin-Nagant tightly as he pushed away thorny branches with his hands, walking through the part of the forest he was moving in was no easy task. The man had to practically dance around nettle plants as he closed the distance between him and the source of the smoke.

Even though the time felt awfully slow, he managed to get close enough to the point where he could hear the odd barks and chatter of the bipedal dogs. Isaiah felt slightly nervous under his calm demeanor; every single contact he had with them resulted in violence.

The ruckus coming from the Diamond Dogs grew louder and louder as Isaiah continued his steady advance towards them. As a safety precaution, he pulled back the bolt of his rifle and chambered a round into the action.

“It never hurts to be cautious…”

Peering past some trees and bushes, Isaiah could see a group of five Diamond Dogs gathered around a small fire with an unidentifiable object placed within the flickering flames. The human pulled up his rifle and looked through the sights of the scope.

He took note that three of the dogs came up to his chin while the other two stood slightly taller than his waist. From his position, Isaiah couldn’t tell if they bared any weapons with them, even if they didn’t, he’d still confront them with extreme caution. One of the taller Diamond Dogs stood out from the whole pack, it appeared to wear a peculiar headdress decorated in strange feathers and bones; giving him an authoritative look that a african tribal leader would have.

Slowly, Isaiah began to push out of the vegetation and show himself to the pack. As he advanced his way, the packed turned their oddly shaped heads towards the source without the knowing that there was someone coming their way.

The Diamond Dog with the headdress ordered one of the smaller dogs to check out the movement with a commanding order. The smaller dog hopped off the log it sat on and carefully moved closer towards the vegetation, unaware that he was being watched other than his pack members. When he began to pry the bushes away from one another, a long steel blade slowly poked from the vegetation and gently tapped the dog’s wet nose.

Isaiah slowly and confidently rose from the bush he sat in with the bayonet of his rifle prodding the small Diamond Dog’s nose with the tip. The man could see the fear in the dog’s eyes and the shock in his pack members.

“Don’t do anything stupid.” The man sternly commanded to the pack as he ushered the dog in front of him back away. “If y’all do, I’ll make every single one of y’all regret it.”

The dog with the headgear stood up from the log he sat. “Why you come ape thing, why disturb us? We done not wrong.” It spoke with an unusually high voice, its speech broken and poor.

“I would like to make an offer that can benefit both of us.” Isaiah began to explain before the assumed pack leader broke in.

“Wrong, wrong, wrong!” It repeated. “You done harm, I remember! Other pack in cave gone; dead by boomstick, like one in paw!”

Isaiah had to resist a grunt in amusement when he understood what they called his rifle. “They just happened to mess with the wrong people; me. And my reasons were good.”

One of the other dogs opened it’s mouth to speak but the leader smacked him upside the head before he spoke. “You lie, weird ape, you lie! You want us dead like other pack! You brought boomstick as weapon!”

The man sighed in annoyance. “If I wanted to kill y’all, why would I say I wanted to make an offer when I showed up. Remember what I said, ‘I would like to make an offer that can benefit both of is’?”

“He make point pack lea-ow!” A different dog spoke before getting slapped by the alpha.

“Why should we help you? You dangerous as manticore!” The pack leader cried out as he turned his back towards Isaiah.

“Don’t y’all like money and other shiny things?” The man asked. When his words left his mouth, the dogs instantly transfixed their black beady eyes onto him.

Isaiah watched closely as the whole pack began to talk to each other as if they were discussing an important business deal. All of them huddled around as they harshly whispered.

After a minute passed by, the pack leader stood up from the group. “How much money we talking?”

Even though the human was practically broke, it didn’t stop him from using his silver tongue. “Lots. I have enough to make any Canterlot noble green with envy. And if y’all help me with my little problem, I am more than happy to share some of my wealth with each one of you. Hell, if you help me, I’m sure the other Diamond Dog packs would be jealous; maybe they’d join your pack just to be in the shadow of your glory.”

When Isaiah finished, all five of the Diamond Dogs once again whispered to each other in a huddle, this time more excited than the first. The man could see that the pack leader was thrilled at the opportunity to be the higher ranked pack amongst his species.

“So, what would it be? A life living in the woods or a life living in a nice house with plenty of mares and bitches eager for your company; your pick.” He edged on once more.

The volume from the pack increased as they practically vibrated in place. Each time one of them would say something, they would quickly turn their heads to Isaiah and turn back to each other just as fast.

“What we do?!” The pack leader yelled.

“Bingo.” Isaiah began to think to himself. “All that’s left is the hard part…”

The man assessed the dogs in front of him and slung his rifle onto his back, doing so made the pack members sigh in relief.

Isaiah spoke to the Diamond Dogs as he started. “Well, it’s quite simple you see. I have a group of friends who are being harassed by the equestrian royal guards, who wish to harm them. Now, the guards can’t attack them because they lack the resources to successfully do so--”

“Then why bother us?” A dog asked while butting into Isaiah’s explanation.

“I was just getting to that.” Isaiah assured while masking his annoyance. “But here’s this one thing, the royal guards are sending a convoy of supplies eastward to help their friends fight my friends; I don’t want that you understand? So what I need y’all to do is prevent those supplies from reaching their destination by doing something that’ll render them useless. Any ideas on how to destroy the supplies without attacking the guards?”

“Good plan,” The pack leader started. “we cover convoy wagons in fire dust, when ready, we light fire dust and supplies in convoy burn no matter what it is; wood, food, cloth, even metal not safe from fiery flames of fire dust! We use all time, plenty of it!”

The man nodded. “Alright, sounds good to me. If y’all are going to pull this off, y’all are going to need to sabotage the supplies while everyone else is asleep. When everything is all clear, that’s when y’all strike. And remember, do not attack any guards.”

“When we do this?” The alpha asked.

“Tonight.”

<><><><><><>

All Isaiah had to do now was play the waiting game. He perched himself in on a high branch of a tree to allow himself to oversee the Diamond Dogs sabotage of the convoy wagon that was due to head east later on.

Before he decided to nest himself in a tree overlooking the Everfree Outpost, he left the Diamond Dogs their reward far away from where they were; a surprise none the less. After that, he dashed back to Queen Chrysalis explaining the plan, the changeling found that whole thing amusing and ridiculous but couldn’t discourage the idea at hand.

Isaiah cursed himself for not bringing his NVs; the darkness of the night made it too difficult to what would soon transpire in the coming hours. Even though the darkness provided both him and the dogs cover, it still felt slightly disabling to him. Normally, Luna’s moon would illuminate the land in it’s gentle glow, but tonight a thick cloud cover prevented the light from bearing down.

Far and below, the Everfree Outpost stationed a quarter of a mile away lacked activity, only a few guards would venture out of their tents to somewhere else inside the camp. The man expected more life in the camp but didn’t mind, it would be easier for the Diamond Dogs to do their job with a decreased chance of getting caught.

He glanced down at his watch; 11:57PM it read to him in it’s glow. The man fidgeted slightly on the branch he sat on, the dogs had three minutes until show time. So far, Isaiah couldn’t see the Diamond Dogs, mostly likely due to the darkness and foliage covering the area.

Almost unseen, Isaiah notice a few bushes moving not too far away from the convoy wagon; the Diamond Dogs seemed to be early, not that it bothered the man. He brought his rifle up and looked down the scope towards the movement.

The man watched carefully as the dogs silently crept through the darkness of the night towards the wagon. Upon their backs and shoulders, they carried odd bags filled with unknown substances. Isaiah made the assumption that the ‘Fire Dust’ is what is in the bags they carried.

Just watching the dogs execute the mission felt tense to the man even though he’s far away from what’s bound to happen. Isaiah slowly dragged the scope around the Everfree Outpost; nopony was in sight and were probably all inside sleeping.

Isaiah let out a sigh of relief, the dogs had a wide open window and as long as they did their job quickly and quietly, they wouldn’t have a problem.

He turned his sights back onto the wagon itself, just in time to see the Diamond Dogs dump and scatter the fire dust onto the wooden wagon full of supplies. Two dogs would situate themselves on top of the wagon and dump the odd concoction while another two would toss the remaining bags to the them, and the last dog stayed back and kept an eye out for any guards.

When the packleader dumped the last bag’s contents onto the supplies, he and the other jumped off and quickly huddled next to the other pair; sparking something that Isaiah assumed was flint and steel.

Suddenly, the dog who was keeping watch quickly squatted next to his fellow pack members. Whatever it said, it make the other dogs almost go into a frenzy of panic. Isaiah cursed and looked at the outpost, the faint outline of a pony was slowly drawing close to the wagon and Diamond Dogs.

The human growled to himself when he returned to the dogs and noticed that they were still panicking, he wanted to yell at them to focus but that would’ve blown their cover.

Step by step, the guard got closer and closer to the wagon, unaware of who were close by it with the intent of destroying the supplies. Isaiah could feel his heartbeat pickup as he watched the scene slowly unfold ahead of him.

Right as the guard stood next to the wagon to inspect the foul play, Isaiah instantly knew the dogs would be quickly discovered. Right as the man thought about climbing down the tree to run away, a figured poked up from behind the guard. And in a flash, the pony was sent to the ground, landing in a thud without moving.

“Damn it…” Isaiah whispered to himself.

The Diamond Dogs ignored his command and attacked the guard. Even though he could understand why they did, he didn’t want any harm bestowed upon anyone at all.

For what felt like forever, the packleader managed to light a small tuft of tender on fire with the flint and steel. Isaiah watched as the flaming tender flew into the air and long onto the convoy, which then exploded into an inferno of blinding flames.

Everything around the wagon became illuminated by the large flames that blazed like the entrance of hell. The light emitting from it bathed the area in light; powerful enough to even slightly illuminate Isaiah.

From the top of the tree, Isaiah followed the Diamond Dogs, with his scope, escape the carnage of the camp. The man could hear the guards shout and holler was the flames raged on the outskirts of the outpost. Dozens of guards rushed to the wagon with buckets of water in their mouths or magic, hoping to extinguish the fire burning the supplies.

Each time the water poured onto the flames it did nothing but agitate the fire. Guard after guard came rushing, whatever attempts they made to quell the flames did little. Isaiah could tell that the supplies would most likely ruin most of the supplies; the base of the fire burned blue and charred whatever it touched.

Isaiah finally spent the desired amount of time watching the guards try to put out the fire with no hint of luck and started to climb down the tree with the flames from the distance lighting his way. As he moved closer to the earth, the amount of illumination began to dwindle; bushes, tree, and leafs blocked the light.

Right as the man’s boots hit the ground, he took off like a bolt of lightning towards the next destination. His feet seemed to blur as he moved about the forest with caution in his steps. Sweat began to drip, the heat from the day still lingered in the air of the Everfree Forest. His sheathed machete bounced against him as he sprinted as fast as he could. Vegetation whipped at his face, making him wince at each slap.

Within a couple of minutes of running, he managed to reach the destination before the Diamond Dogs. He quickly spotted a tree that could handle his weight and dashed up it’s trunk and perched on a branch that also allowed himself a view of his plan that would soon unfold.

He tapped on his rifle with anticipation as he waited for the Diamond Dogs to show up for the grand finally; their present waiting for them under a large, flat piece of stone.

The man scanned the forest with is eyes and ears, waiting and waiting until the sounds of the dogs filled the air. They snarled and panted from exhaustion from the event that just transpired from moments ago. The packleader, who fared better, ran ahead of his pack with vigour.

Once again, Isaiah watched the dogs through his scope huddle around their award for their dirty deed. The man could hardly hold his excitement as they fought each other for who would be the first one to retrieve the money.

And as expected, the packleader pushed aside his fellow pack members and picked up the stone slab with his dirty paws and tossed it aside; their howls and cheers overpowered the faint sound of a click.

Their excitement quickly turned into confusion as they stared down at what they uncovered. Instead of finding their reward of money, all they could see was a odd, green spherical item with pieces of metal jutting out from it with some string.

One of the smaller dogs, quickly picked it up out of curiosity and turned around to the others so they could get a better look. The Diamond Dogs huddled closely as the holder raised it up into the air; unaware of what was next to come.

*BOOOM!!!*

Isaiah roared in laughter as the HE M67 hand grenade detonated in the middle of the huddled pack. The flash of the explosion slightly disoriented him when he watched the whole thing happen in front of him, but he hardly cared. Pieces of Diamond Dog began to fall down from the sky like rain as it pitter pattered around him. His body threatened to fall from the tree as he lurched forwards while he gripped his sides.

When he managed to look up and pass the tears forming in the corners of his eyes, all he could see were the mangled corpses of the dogs laying in the grass with parts of themselves scattered about. The dust cloud that had been kicked up from the explosion slowly started to dissipate in the air as he struggled to climb down while he laughed.

He wished that he’d brought his camera.

The man, who cheated the Diamond Dogs, stumbled his way towards the queen’s cave; wiping the tears of joy away from his cheeks. At first, he thought about checking the corpses but decided against it, he wanted to return to the changeling queen and tell about what happened.

<><><><><><>

Queen Chrysalis grasped a flower from the flower basket with her magic. She gently floated it towards her muzzle and smelled it’s aroma; reminding her of who gave her the bouquet in the first place. A damned guilty pleasure that she had a difficult time getting over and Isaiah’s gift of showing kindness didn’t help her at all.

“A changeling queen shall not dwell on something so petty such as flowers…” She quoted her mother in her head.

Sadly, due to the lack of light and vase with water, the bouquet of flowers were beginning to quickly wither away. While they still held their aroma, it wasn’t as enticing like when they’re freshly picked.

Either way she didn’t mind too much that the flowers were decaying faster than flowers that are cared for. Sooner they’re gone, the sooner the habit would go away; hopefully.

But like all bugs, she had the trouble of ignoring the bright colors of flowers and their pleasant smell.

Unconsciously, she picked out another flower and enjoyed it’s beauty; then suddenly lighting it on fire when she realized what she was doing. She cursed herself for letting a basket full of dying flowers get the better of her. The queen contemplated whether or not to burn the flowers all together but the sound of a certain pair of footsteps filled her ears.

“Guess what Queen Chrysalis,” Isaiah started with a smile. “I bring good news about the convoy.”

Those words bad her grin. “I too, bare great news. But I believe that we shall hear news of your mission. Go on, tell me how it went…”

“But first, I brought you both a gift and dinner.” He announced, Chrysalis inwardly sighed both in eagerness and in annoyance when Isaiah pulled out a bundle of poison-joke. “I’d thought you’d be hungry, so I got’cha these weird-ass flowers again; not only can you eat them, but they’re a pretty decoration too. Heck, I got these just in time, your flowers are dying.”

“Thank you Isaiah.” She said as she split half the bundle of poison-joke to eat and to add to the other flowers.

Isaiah sat in front of the changeling queen and began to inform her all about what happened; the sneaking to the convoy wagon, the diamond dogs setting the wagon on fire, and the boobytrap were all told in detail. Even the queen chuckled with the human as he explained the little surprise he set for the dogs.

The man allowed the changeling queen to eat some of the poison-joke she brought for her. As he waited, he noticed that the last three changelings she had seemed to be more energized than last time he saw them.

When the queen finished the portation, Isaiah asked, “So what’s the good news?”

“The good news is far greater than you might think. I saw you glancing over at my remaining changeling, they seem slightly healthier don’t they? While you were away dealing with the those filthy mutts and convoy, one of my changeling drones managed a spectacular accomplishment.”

“And what may that accomplishment be?” Isaiah asked.

Queen Chrysalis let a grin form on her lips while looking at a particular drone. “My changeling managed to sneak into Ponyville and successfully harvested love from a pony without raising suspicion. While the amount the changeling gathered is small, it should last us until tomorrow night if we rationally distribute it amongst ourselves.”

“Fucking congrats,” The man praised. “It’s nice to hear y’all getting back onto y’alls feet. Just keep it up and everything should be fine, right?”

“I truly hope so Isaiah. As we are right now, we have a rough future ahead of us that can’t be ignored or avoided without some sort of sacrifice. While our start may seem promising at first, it could just be the beginning of something dreaded; careful planning and observations shall be enacted if we wish to achieve greater. If by chance that we become fortunate as time progresses, then we really can believe that we have a chance. I pray that my ancestors bestow us the power to rise from our pit of misery and return into a powerful force.”

“And when you’re successful, then what? Will you return to your own ways from before or will you choose to command your hive differently and possibly build relations with others?” He questioned the changeling queen who began to ponder her answer.

She had to think about his words, his question became something beyond trivial. “I’m not sure…” She spoke out. “As time goes, then maybe I’ll decide for the future hive. But for now we need to focus on the present.”

“Sounds reasonable.” The man agreed with the queen. “I wish you the best of luck Queen Chrysalis. I have a feeling that you’re gonna make it.”

“Thank you. But remember Isaiah, we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you. If-no, when I reconstruct my mighty hive, I’ll be sure that a monument will be built in honor of you; I promise.” Queen Chrysalis announced to him.

Isaiah let out a grunt. “Can I decide what the monument will be?”

She shook her head. “No. When it comes to monuments honoring someone, something, or an event, I am the one who orders what shall and will be done.”

The man crossed his arms in slight annoyance. “Damn it.”

“I’ll grant you the freedom of choosing the pose if I decide to build a statue. Does that sound reasonable?” She questioned with a raised brow.

“Hmm,” He thought himself until he shrugged his shoulders. “It’s alright a guess. I’ll make sure to look heroic just for you.”

“We’ll see…” The queen trailed off as she laid down her head on the blankets that Isaiah brought for her.

“Tired?” He asked the mare who then nodded her head. Isaiah decided to lend her a hand and drape the other blanket onto her body. “Here ya go. I gotta get’cha a mattress or a bedroll or something, a stone floor isn’t good for the back.”

She slightly twisted her head so she could speak to him. “Thank you again for your kindness Isaiah. As much as I hate to bid farewell, I believe that slumber is calling your name. Go, go return to your home and rest, the events of today must have been tiring for such an individual such as you.”

“If you say so Queen Chrysalis. Try not to have too much fun while I’m gone alright? I’ll see you tomorrow, I promise.” He affirmed to the changeling queen who looked up to him from her prone position.

“Good-bye Isaiah and sweet dreams.” The queen chimed as the human left her alone for home.

Author's Notes:

Another week, another upload.

This chapter was a little finicky considering I wrote while I was practically asleep. I've been trying to fix my sleep schedule, which is proving to be a challenge. I'll be heading back to school next week so that means that chapters wont be uploaded as frequent; I know, shame.

I would just like to say that I'm really excited for the next couple of chapters; I have been waiting for them for a while and I have everything sorted out!

Anyway, feel free to leave a comment or give constructive criticism. I don't know if I've said it before but I REALLY like hearing from y'all!