“Coffee, Buttermilk?”

I looked away from the balcony to see Noble approach while levitating two ceramic mugs, one of hovering next to me. “Thanks.” I grabbed the cup and indulged myself. Noble took up the spot next to me, watching Celestia’s sun rise over the horizon.

“As much flak as I’ve given ponies, you guys really know how to set a mood.” A soft grin played on Noble’s lips. I smiled at her.

“Well, after a thousand years of practice, I guess Celestia got used to making good sunrises.”

Her smile waned. “Might be my last sunrise once Shining gets his hooves on me.”

“I won’t let that happen. I just need to get him to see reason.”

“Yeah, because that worked out so well last time.”

I sighed. “Glad to see you’re optimistic about this whole thing.”

“I like to keep my expectations tempered. Harder to be disappointed that way.”

I’d prepared to retort, cut off by the blaring horn of a train. Noble and I took one look at each other, then directed our attention to the railroad tracks near the edge of town.

The purple and gold train roared across the tracks at breakneck speed. Dozens of cars were connected to the locomotive, thick plating on the sides emblazoned with the Crystal Empire’s emblem. More pressing were the amount of ordinance carried on the center cars. There were enough cannons to level Canterlot itself.

“...Noble?” I asked slowly, “what exactly did you say to him that called for this?”

“Unfortunately, the truth.”

With a lurch and another shrill horn, the train stopped a good mile or two in the town’s outskirts. Woken by it, Spike, Elytra, and Zecora hurried to the balcony to see rows of armored ponies pile out of the train. Though I recognized the lavender and gold armor of the soldiers, I was thrown off by the forward scouts approaching us at an incredible pace.

Even from this distance, I could make out the vastly different armor of the platoon charging for the castle. Their full-plate rainbow armor shimmered in the morning sun like stars. I was impressed how they could move that fast in armor that covered them head-to-hoof. Their formation was pristine, moving in unison, pegasi breaking off and taking into the air in two V-shaped flight patterns.

Leading the pack was none other than Shining Armor.

“Break time’s over,” I rested the coffee mug on the balcony edge and turned to find everyone’s focus on me. Their eyes voiced the question on their lips. “It might get rocky for a bit, but I’ll make sure we come out on top. Noble, Elytra, you two need to stay behind me. Spike, Zecora, play it cool and don’t act or even look hostile, no matter what happens. Understood?” Four nods greeted me. Their firm expressions showed their readiness for what laid ahead. Their trust in me to see them through this encounter. “Let’s go.”

I was about to leave with everyone when I caught Noble’s dejected expression. I gave her a squeeze on the shoulder. “Have some faith, will ya? I’ll keep you safe.”

Noble gave me an odd look for a moment, then smiled. “I’ll believe it when I see it. But the fact you’re saying it is appreciated anyway.”

“Eh, I’ll take it.” I flashed a confident smirk before leading the march to the rally point at the top of the main stairwell.

Minutes rolled by in silence. A shattered window from the hall behind us pulled a gasp out of Noble. Elly’s eyes bounced from door to door. Breach and clear maneuvers from the pegasi forward team. They’ll probably surround us by the time Shining gets here.

“Calm down,” I ordered my team. “Everything will be fine.”

“Easy for you to say…” Elytra mumbled under her breath. Before long, the sound of metal and hooves echoed from the bottom floor.

As we maintained our position, breaths held, concern swelled in my gut. I knew I should’ve felt glad to see Shining Armor. Instead, all I could think about was how our last conversation ended and what he must be going through right now.

*Today should be a most interesting day.*

I gasped, losing my composure for just a moment. Was that voice… no. No, it couldn’t be.

*But it is, Flash Sentry. Did you think I would live out my prison sentence in silence?*

The steps drew closer. Sweat rolled down my cheek. But… but you’re supposed to be sealed inside me.

Malice, or rather Inner Malice for simplicity sake, chuckled darkly. *I’m still part of your subconsciousness. You are as trapped with me as I am with you. Through you I can feel the hostility of the approaching soldiers, especially the one leading them. I believe you have bigger concerns than the voice inside your head.*

As much as I hated to admit it, Inner Malice was right. I needed to focus on Shining armor. If I couldn’t get him to see reason, things would no doubt get ugly.

The doors were nearly torn off their hinges from Shining Armor’s telekinetic force. Rainbow armored soldiers flanked his sides, spears, bucklers, and swords at the ready. Shining Armor’s glare turned into shock upon noticing all of us draped in changeling armor.

To go from hating changelings to wearing their armor. Can’t imagine what’s going through his head without any context to the sudden change of heart.

The surprise round came as quickly as it went, Shining’s glare returning with double force at the two changelings standing to my back left and right with no disguises. I was about to second guess the decision to let them drop their disguises when I realized there was no point, especially when Thorax, oddly donned in his own rainbow armor, meekly shuffled his way to Shining’s side.

“Lieutenant.” Shining’s grim tone left nothing to the imagination. He was ready to draw some blood. “Start. Talking.”

I saluted him, matching his domineering stare with my own. “Sir, mission has been compromised. Princess Twilight Sparkle and the element bearers have been captured by the enemy. We suspect the hostages are at the tree of harmony. We need to secure the town and mount a coordinated offensive.”

Hot air rushed out of Shining’s nose as he huffed. “I was told you were in critical.” His frosty stare moved to Noble. “Clearly another lie.”

“Sir, I was in critical. My team saved my life. It’s... complicated.”

“I’ll bet.” His eyes moved to Elytra next. “Another changeling, Lieutenant?”

“Elytra, sir. She and Trojan will be helping us save the princess.”

Shining’s glare hardened. “Over my dead body. Sergeant Spark!” From behind, Shine Spark, also in rainbow armor, hurried to Shining’s side opposite of Thorax. “Take them in. Thorax will be our eyes for this OP. Escort them back to—”

“Not happening, Sir.”

Shine stopped dead in her tracks, her and Shining staring at me as if I’d just committed high treason. “LT, what the hay are you doing..?” Shine’s voice was little more than a whisper, shock and worry etched in her throat.

Shining Armor recovered quickly, his horn sparked to life. “I gave you an order. Sergeant!” Shining’s tone sharpened. “Take them.”

“Sir, with all due respect, you are not touching my team.” I struggled to keep my tone as professional as possible. Showing any weakness would kill any chance of making a sound argument.

“Flash,” Shining Armor shifted as if preparing to charge forward, “last chance to stand down. I’d rather not take you in for treason against the crown.”

“Don’t do this,” Shine pleaded quietly. “Please don’t make us force the issue.”

*You can easily take them,* Inner Malice said. *It’s all too clear Shining Armor won’t take no for an answer.*

I won’t let it come to violence. There’s too much he doesn’t know or trust. All I need is for him to give me a chance. Just one minute to clear up this mess.

“Sir,” I calmed my tone, hoping to come off reasonable, “I don’t give a damn what you do to me after we save Twilight and the others, but right now we need their help to take out the captor before it’s too late. Hear me out first, then make your judgement.”

“Nothing is happening with those two loose. If you won’t move, I will make you move.”

Shining was growing agitated, but I understood what he needed. I glanced back at Noble and Elytra, their expressions still as stone. A silent conversation passed between Noble and myself. She nodded at me. I nodded back and returned my attention to Shining.

“Alright,” I started carefully. “I’ll let you detain them for the time being. In return, allow me to submit myself, Spike and Zecora for examination and mental check before you ship them off. If we’re deemed healthy, hear me out before passing judgement on them. ”

Shining Armor studied me hard, watching like a hawk. The air between us was thick. Smothering. He glanced at Shine, then nodded at Noble and Elytra. Her steps echoed across the dead silent hallway, stopping briefly next to me.

“Hey,” Shine whispered, “you are LT… right? I mean, with the getup and all…”

“I really am Flash, Shine. I'll explain everything later, I promise, but take it easy on them for me, alright? They won’t resist.” I whispered back.

“Sergeant.” Shining’s warning tone cut through us. Shine continued on, moving next to Noble and Elytra.

“Put these on and step forward. Do me a solid and don’t do anything stupid.” Shine pulled out two golden horn bracers, magic suppressors. Thankfully, Noble and Elytra placed them on without hesitation or argument. They winced and grunted, likely suffering from the sudden loss of magic. Once they recovered, Shine led them back towards Shining’s side.

“Hey,” I muttered to the Noble and Elytra, “everything will be okay. I promise.”

Still looking forward, not an ounce of emotion on her face, Noble muttered a quiet ‘thank you’ before going out of earshot and behind the squad flanking Shining Armor.

Once they were out of view, Shining Armor glanced over to his left side. “Sunburst, you’re up.”

Dressed in his usual emerald garb, Sunburst sidled up to Shining’s side, a nervous wreck under all the tension. His eyes kept flicking towards me, more than likely wanting to say something but couldn’t. “Y-yes, sir?”

“I need a full examination on them. Physical. Mental. Magical. I need to be two-hundred percent sure they aren’t indoctrinated or in disguise. Put them in separate rooms.”

“A-a-alright.”

Shining’s stare moved back to me. After a long moment, his heated glare relented. Slightly. “For your sake, this better be good, Flash.”

It was a little too quiet for my taste.

Locked in a guest room, Sunburst, with the help of Thorax, took charge of my examination. Shine and Shining stood by the door, never once taking their eyes off me. I was the last one to be examined, though I knew the others were under close guard. Hopefully it was not nearly as tense as my examination was. But if there was anypony who I would trust to recognize it was really me, it was the three ponies in the room.

Thorax was the only wild card in this mess. While Sunburst had set up the equipment to check for magical and mental effects, the changeling shot me a look somewhere between anger and worry. Assuming he was still able to see pathos, he must’ve realized what the others couldn’t; I was full of that stuff. It bothered me to no end how quiet he was about it.

The tests were relatively simple. Answering questions that only I would know. Following directions to show my intelligence and logic hadn’t been altered or diminished by certain effects. Taking drug tests to make sure there were no non-magical influences in my system. Sunburst’s face was pensive for the entire hour he’s been working on me. That was the one bit of tension driving me nuts beyond anything else.

“C’mon, lighten up. I already feel like an ant under a microscope.” I joked.

Sunburst paused for a beat, throwing me a serious look. “Sorry, but you’re gonna have to deal with it a little longer. This has to be done right or not at all.”

“So you can make sure I’m Flash?”

He shook his head, voice lowered to a whisper. “So we can finally put our fears to rest. We can’t mess this up. I refuse to let this mess up.”

“I… I understand,” I slowly nodded, unable to contain my smile. “Thanks, bro.”

A small grin broke out on his face. “What are friends for?”

Sunburst cleared his throat, raising his voice to normal volume. “No signs of changeling manipulation, drugging, disguises, or hypnosis. Mental faculties and memories also seem to be intact. All that leaves is the pathos test. Thorax, I’ll leave this one to you.”

Thorax nodded and stepped forward, eyes narrowed. Ah, so this is what he was waiting for.

He stared at me for what felt like minutes, horn sparked and glowing. His eyes roamed all over my body, licking his lips.

*Someone’s hungry.* Inner Malice quipped. *A starving beast faced with a buffet he knows he can’t touch. I can relate.*

“Your body is filled with pathos,” Thorax growled. “More than any of us ever had, even Queen Chrysalis. There’s too much to tell whether you’re truly possessed or not.”

“I thought he seemed a bit paler than usual. It also matches what Trojan said about possession,” Anguish riddled Shining's face. “The Flash I knew wouldn’t be walking around with changeling armor. He must be possessed then.”

“Not exactly,” Thorax shook his head. “There’s something off about him. Different. Rather than pathos taking him over, it’s as if the reverse happened.”

“It’s a little complicated to explain. It’ll sound crazy.” I admitted.

“There’s nothing about this mess that isn’t crazy,” Shining fired back. “I get the call that you’re in critical after possession. Next thing I know, you’re being all friendly with Trojan and looking like you stepped fresh out of changeling basic. I doubt there’s anything you can tell me that sounds crazier than that.”

I sighed.

“The Cold One, or at least part of him, tried to turn me into his champion by using my hatred and anger as a binding thread between us. He was sealed inside me by Discord, who is trapped inside the Tree of Harmony alongside Chrysalis’ consciousness, so now I have control of his powers to some degree. That’s why it probably looks like I’m filled with nothing but pathos, because apparently my magic has become some mix of my own magic and the Cold One’s.”

A deathly silence fell over the room. Everyone looked at me like I was crazy, though at this point I wouldn't be surprised if it was true.

Shining was the first to speak after finding his voice. “Extract it. I need every part of him clean.”

“Bad idea,” I advised. “Pathos is forged into my own soul. Extracting it would not only end up killing me, but risk setting the Cold One free.”

“Not buying it,” Shining growled. “Why should I believe you’re not already possessed and just trying to fool us?”

“The Cold One wouldn’t be wasting time with this conversation. If the power I witnessed was any indication of what could be unleashed, you would all be dead right now.”

“He has a point.” Thorax nodded. Bewildered glances snapped to him.

“What do you mean? Please explain.” Sunburst requested.

“Flash’s magic chemistry is warped. It’s like…” Thorax tapped his chin, searching for the right words. “Think of it as if somepony mixed two strong alcohols together. It’s a potent mix that’s impossible to separate. To remove the pathos would be to remove Flash himself. Doubt we can extract without killing him.”

For the first time since we met, sternness left Shining’s face. Whatever crossed his mind left him worried. “What does this mean? Is there really no way to tell if he’s possessed?”

“I don’t know if this helps, but...” I hesitated. Mentioning this will probably make my position look worse, but I couldn’t think of any other way to prove I’m not possessed. “I can hear the Cold One in my head.”

This got their attention. Thorax looked shaken.

Shining’s eyebrow quirked. “Hear him? As in, the same guy who is Chrysalis’ partner?”

“Partner is really stretching the term, but yeah. If we could use some telepathy, maybe there’s a way for one of you to listen in? Well, if he will talk.”

“Listen in... what a novel idea!” Sunburst beamed for all of two seconds before deflating. “Telepathy is not my forte, sadly. Especially if this Cold One really is inside you, we would have to tread cautiously.”

“It’s been awhile since I’ve tried that myself,” Shining stroked his chin. “We would want someone with experience… huh. Thorax, think you can do it?”

Thorax swallowed hard. “I… I guess I could give it a try.”

“Ain’t that risky?” Shine asked. “What if this Cold One tries to possess Thorax?”

“I can read surface thoughts as long as Flash allows me to. That will be a safe enough distance… in a manner of speaking,” Thorax reassured.

Shining nodded. “Consider me convinced. Do it.”

“A-alright,” Thorax swallowed again. Having a little more understanding of what he went through with Malice, I can only imagine how he felt at the prospect of interacting with his previous ‘boss’. “Flash, make sure to relax your mind and accept my magic.” His horn glowed.

Warmth rippled across my forehead. Even though it was my idea, having a changeling enter my head sent familiar shivers down my spine. I tried to relax, but all I could think about was what could go wrong. What if Thorax tried to dig deeper than he should’ve? What if something went wrong in there? Thorax could easily—

“You’re resisting,” Thorax spoke calmly. “I can’t do this safely if you’re so nervous.”

“Sorry. Kinda regretting my life choices at the moment.” I took a few deep breaths to calm down.

If I don’t do this, it will only make getting Shining to trust me harder. I have to do this. If Shining takes away Elytra and Noble Heart—

*How do you know her name?!* The voice in my head snapped.

I nearly fell out of my chair. Thorax?!

*Yes, it’s me. Do me a favor and try not to panic like that again. It nearly kicked me out of your mind, which isn’t pleasant.*

Oh. Sorry.

Thorax threw me an odd look. *You’re different. Way different than when you and I first met.*

Yeah, I’ve been getting that a lot.

*Don’t get me wrong. I don’t like you. Not one bit. Had my superiors not been at risk, we would not be having this conversation right now.*

I… I see. Can’t say I blame you. We didn’t exactly have the best first impression of each other.

*You still haven’t answered my question. How did you learn about Noble Heart’s name?*

Chrysalis told me.

Thorax’s jaw laxed, eyes wide as saucers. *That can’t be true! Why would… no, there’s something wrong here. My queen would never—*

*Boo!* Inner Malice’s voice boomed.

Thorax screamed as he fell backwards and scrambled away from me, face full of terror. Shining, Sunburst and Shine grew alert, stopped only by Thorax’s hooves signalling them to wait. It took a moment for Thorax to gather himself while Inner Malice cackled madly.

*Damn I needed that laugh! You’re as feeble as ever!* Inner Malice continued to laugh.

A dark rage took hold of Thorax’s features as he got back onto his hooves. *So it’s true. You were locked inside him after all!*

*From one caged beast to another, tell me Thorax, how are your new owners treating you? It’s clear you’re already house broken.*

I winced. Brutal.

*Shut up! I’m not afraid of you anymore! We’re going to find you and destroy every last part of you!*

*Heh, ‘we’ you say. Strong words from a changeling who couldn’t take a piss unless his new masters gave permission. The only reason you’re puffing out your chest now is because you believe I cannot touch you. You hide behind a wall of glass thinking you’re invincible when you’ve never been weaker. Cowards like you never change natures, just sides.*

Malice, that’s enough! My nose flared. You’re the one that’s hiding behind the changelings because you can’t do anything yourself! At least Thorax is trying to make a difference.

Inner Malice huffed. *You see that, Thorax? He may be a naive fool, but Flash at least has balls. Something you always lacked. That’s why Elytra took you on the team out of pity… and why your brother Pharynx will always be better than you.*

“Shut up!” Thorax’s voice boomed in the now awkwardly silent room. Shaking with fury, he looked around at all the concerned glances, then quietly moved to a corner of the room and took a seat, head hung low.

What the hay was that all about, Malice?!

*A true warrior sharpens every tool at their disposal, even if it’s only barbed words. Besides, I was hoping for some entertainment besides pissing you off.*

For the love of...

“So…” Shining drawled awkwardly. “Anypony gonna tell me what that was all about?”

“When Thorax entered my mind, the Cold One—”

“I can answer for myself!” Thorax snapped, cutting me off. After a beat, his hard expression wilted into guilt. “I-I… I got to talk to the Cold One inside him. Flash was speaking the truth. He’s not possessed.”

“Thorax…” Sunburst walked over to his side, dropping a hoof on his trembling shoulders. “You should take a break.”

“I… I’ll be fine. For a minute I’d forgotten what it’s like dealing with him,” Thorax’s voice grew quieter. “He always knows exactly what button to push to get what he wants. It’s so infuriating!”

“I’ve experienced that first-hoof,” I added. “His ability to read somepony, whether combat or personally, is unreal.”

*Flattering me won’t save you.*

Can it, Malice!

Shining groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Damn it Flash, what in the world did you get yourself into…?” After a moment, he straightened his posture. “Sergeant, Sunburst, Thorax, gather everyone to Twily’s council room… including Trojan and Elytra.”

Relief flooded me. “Thanks for giving me a chance, Boss.”

“It can’t be helped,” Shining smiled wryly. “Only the Flash I know could get himself into this much trouble and somehow come out of it in one piece.”

We moved the discussion to Twilight’s council room, a detailed map of Ponyville spread all over the dormant table. Four ponies clad in rainbow full-plate armor, earth pony, unicorn, pegasus and crystal unicorn respectively, formed a line by the entrance. Now that I got a good look at their gear, I noticed the runic carvings stretched from shoulder plate to chest plate emitted a bluish glow, matching the crystals connecting the runes. I fought down the question burning on my tongue. Shining would bring it up when it was time.

Spike, Zecora, Noble, and Elytra took up one end of the table. Noble Heart, Elytra and myself took turns filling in gaps and retelling our crazy series of events. Shining took Twilight’s seat on the opposite side, hanging onto every word with an uncomfortable amount of focus. Thorax, Shine Spark, and Sunburst settled for a spot by his side of the table, rapt with attention as if listening to a horror story. But of all the ponies in the room, the crystal guard officer standing next to Shining stole my attention the most.

He was a Major, as was indicated by the pink heart adorned with two crossed spears atop each of his shoulder straps. That could mean anything and nothing, though, and told literally zero about what sort of pony he was, which was why I decided to take a closer look. Every soldier had a story behind them, usually told through either himself, or his uniform.

I decided to examine the officer himself first. He was at least in his fifties, yet built like a minotaur. His posture was as straight and rigid as a steel beam, and his biceps threatened to burst from his sleeves at any moment. This spoke highly of his dedication and persistence. Most officers’ bellies tended to bloat like a yeast bun once they reached his level.

His black mane and navy fur further accented his intimidating image, but of more interest was the long scar which trailed across his forehead and through his left eyebrow, barely sparing his eye, and ending just short of the edge of his lip. A training accident? No, unlikely. This guy had seen action, and probably lots of it.

His uniform supplement that theory. His chest was draped with ribbons and medals worthy of a whole battalion. From the bottom to the top, they reported of his exceptional service, his excellence in marksmanship, and repeatedly distinguished service. The last one, an ivory-white badge with green-and-gold lining, caught me by surprise. It was identical to the one on my own uniform dress.

He had served in Canterlot, on the day of Chrysalis invasion. Combined with everything else I had just found out, I was now absolutely certain: This guy meant business, and Shining bringing him along further cemented the unrestrained Tartarus Shining was prepared to unleash had I not slowed him down.

*Quite the accomplish Major. He’s an O4 for Equestrian forces, correct?*

Inner Malice’s comment nearly caused me to choke. You know about our structure?

*Idiot,* Inner Malice scoffed. *Need I remind you who you are speaking to?*

When it clicked, I mentally facehooved. Right. A warmonger like yourself would never pass up military intel.

*Damn straight.*

By the time Noble finished her side of the story, Shining’s head was dropped into his forehooves. The Major and Shine threw me baffled looks at the absurdity that was the last twenty-four hours. Sunburst was both invested and sickened by the story, Thorax leaned more towards sick and guilt-ridden.

“...You have got to be kidding me,” Shining muttered. “So all of that happened just because you AWOL’d into Everfree like a dumbass?”

“Yes, Sir.” Ouch.

“You weren’t kidding about that colt wonder of yours, Prince” The Major stroked his beard as he appraised me. “Can’t tell for the life of me if he’s crazily lucky or dumb as a brick.”

“A little of both, Max. Flash is a special kind of trouble magnet.” Shining sighed as he returned his attention to me. “Alright Flash, you’ve made your case. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but I’ve seen enough to believe I can trust you. For now, at least.”

“All I wanted was a chance so we can save Twily together. Thank you for giving me that, Sir.”

“Let’s save the thanks until after we’ve rescued Twily.” Shining glanced at the Major, then back to me. “Flash, you’ve never met the Major, have you?” I shook my head. “This is Max Warbane. He’s originally from Canterlot like you were. He’ll be taking the reins on this OP.”

I stood from my chair and saluted the Major. “It’s a pleasure having you on this OP, Sir.”

Max saluted me in return. “At ease, kid. The general’s told me a lot about you. Glad we didn’t have to put you in the ground earlier.”

“Heh, you and me both, Major.” I sat back down. “So what are we working with?”

“1st Crystal Regiment, 3rd battalion 2nd company, plus the 1st battalion’s entire headquarters platoon. Two lances, one cloud and a cannon.” Two frontline platoons, a sky guard and artillery, all together a very well rounded company. An entire HQ platoon is at least fifty ponies strong, not counting who knows how many specialists and techs he brought along to operate the new equipment. “Already got the cannon platoon and AUX setting up around the castle. It’s the best vantage point we could find to coordinate strikes and make into an HQ. The rest of the company is mobilizing around the town hall as we speak. Even got our special surprise ready, but I’ll let Sergeant Shine Spark handle introductions.”

A grin erupted from Shine. “Remember that class project you were in charge of before all this mess started, LT? Well, after doing some further digging and working with Canterlot’s guard, Princess Twilight now has a full platoon of the best badasses we could get our hooves on: The Prism Guard.”

The four guards by the entrance marched around the table and stopped a short distance away from me. Shine Spark continued. “We knew the princess wouldn’t want a big flashy group of soldiers, so we had to be especially picky and work with a smaller team. Only thing missing till now was a captain.”

The four sergeants saluted me.

It took a moment for it to sink it.

“Hold up, I was only a captain for the sake of disguise. You can’t be serious…!”

Shining nodded. “I made this decision the day I asked you to organize a team. Twilight needs a guard, and today is just another reminder of why it’s so important. Wish I had more time to prepare and provide additional training, but beggars can’t be choosers.”

“Were the situation less critical, we would’ve thrown a damn good party,” Shine shrugged. “I’ll just have to settle for introductions with your new squad leaders. Alright ladies, show your captain some Celestia-damned respect and introduce yourselves!”

Each of the squad leaders, my sergeants, sounded off.

The dark mane and furred earth pony to the far left started. “Sergeant Ebony Thorn, reporting for duty, sir!” With the way his golden eyes burned into me, I couldn’t tell if he was glaring or simply focused on making a good impression.

Next to him was a dark blue unicorn, flashing a smile as bright as her white mane. “Sergeant Vivid Meadows, ready for a fight! You can call me Vivi, Sir!”

I nodded, doing my best to keep my eyebrow from raising. So we got Mr. Serious and Ms. Cheerleader. Next is—

“‘Tis a pleasure to finally you, el capitano.”

—this guy, apparently.

A pegasus with a flaming mane and beige fur, he saluted with an air of grace that was almost arrogant. From the way Shine’s lips tightened, I knew he was going to be quite the show. “Sergeant Dos Cadenaz, at your service!”

...Guess I’ll add Mr. Charisma to my ever-growing list of misfits.

The last sergeant was, to my surprise, the oddest one in the bunch. A quiet crystal unicorn with snowy white mane and coat. Cool blue eyes locked with my inquisitive glance as she saluted me. “Sergeant Allegro Forte, sir. It will be an honor to serve you.”

Soft spoken as she was, there was no mistaking the strength lurking in her tone. A pony who didn’t need to be loud to show she meant business, though not as intense as Thorn. Hmmm… I suppose Ms. Cool suits her for now.

I got out of my chair and, after a sweeping glance over my new squad leaders, saluted them. “At ease, Sergeants.” Their hooves went down, then my own. “Don’t have time to deliver a proper address. Just know that I’m going to work you hard. Harder than you’ve ever worked in your life. But through me you will succeed and be the best damn thing to happen to Equestria. That starts with saving our princess and the element bearers. Be ready for anything, as our enemy will throw everything he has at us. Am I clear?”

“Yes, sir!” All four shouted. I nodded with approval.

"And then you got my squad," Shine chimed in. "After all, you need somepony to recon and soften up any poor sod you got your eyes set on. I’ll try to leave a little bit of fight left to make you feel important."

I beamed. "Glad to have you aboard, Shine. I almost feel sorry for whoever tries to mess with us."

“A new guard is not the only thing we’re giving you and Twilight.” Sunburst’s tone swelled with pride. “Thorax was instrumental in helping us develop tools to help with this whole pathos debacle. With his help, and thanks to past experience against Discord, we were able to develop a countermeasure against Malice.”

“I’m guessing it’s the armor?”

“Yes. I’ll spare you the science behind it, but it should give limited effectiveness against pathos magic based on the number of ‘disruptor’ gems slotted.”

“That’s great news, but…” I took another look at the Prism Guard armor, noting some armors were missing gems in their slots. Thorax, Allegro and Vivi each had one in their chest plate. Thorn and Cadenaz had two gems. Shine had all three slots filled. “Is there a reason some gems are missing? Low supply?”

Nervousness washed over Sunburst’s face. “W-well, pathos is not the only source of magic the gems resist. I couldn’t find a solution to stopping only pathos, not so soon anyway. The level of protection counts for all sources of magic. Including the user’s.”

“So let me get this straight,” Noble spoke up, “your best solution against pathos was to cut off your own magic? That’s gotta be like running a marathon with only one working leg for you ponies.”

“Well not everypony can absorb pathos like a sponge and get away with it,” a hint of irritation slipped into Sunburst’s voice. “There’s only so much the development team and I could come up with that was feasible to mass produce. The coffee shops made a lot of money off us this month.”

“In Sunburst’s defense,” Thorax started, “these are also useful for us changelings to suppress pathos. Unfortunately, these aren’t fit to work with our transformations, but we can still use the rest of our magic and drain pathos as long as only one gem is slotted.”

“I see someling has been making himself useful.” The praise did not reach Elytra’s eyes. Poor Thorax withered under her stare. Bet she’s still pissed at how he messed up earlier.

“I-I’m helping with all pathos-related threats, providing insight from a changeling perspective. With my Shadow’s and Overlord’s permission, I would like to be part of the swarm again so we can work together to beat Malice.”

I barely caught the disapproving growl in Elytra’s throat. “Elytra? Cool it.”

Elytra grunted. “I know, I know. If it’s okay with Mother, it’s okay with me for you to come back, Thorax… though I still plan on tanning someling’s carapace once this is over.”

Thorax whimpered. And here I thought Shine Spark was the hard driver of us all.

Noble smiled. “Elly, you will not punish him for breaking protocol.”

Elytra shot Noble a look. “What?! But he—” She stopped the instant Noble raised her hoof.

“Thorax gave us the opportunity we needed to set things in motion. You will scold and educate protocol, but not punishment. As far as I’m concerned, he’s forgiven for his pathetic display of discipline and ignorance of rules that could’ve cost even more lives.”

Thorax sighed in defeat. I shook my head. Damn, he just can’t win with these two, can he?

I returned my attention to Shining Armor. “I don't know what to say. Just... thanks for all of this, Boss.”

“Save it for after this mess is over. I’m not letting you off the hook yet.” Shining took the marker out of my hooves with his magic and drew lines and circles around key points. “This is what we understand so far. According to safety logs Twily gave us a while back, the castle and hospital are evac shelters. Since they take up the northwest and northeast corners of the town respectively, we’re calling those Quad-one and two. Quad-three will be southwest side with Sugarcube Corner, leaving town hall and the frontline to Quad-four.”

“Quad-four and three are the closest points to Everfree,” I pointed out. “There’s not much in the way of natural defense outside half a river.”

“It’s better than nothing,” Max started, “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves though. First we need to prep for the worst. Mind filling me in on what we’re dealing with?”

“We will likely face two threats,” Elytra spoke up. “On one hoof, we got the wildlife. Manticores, chimeras, Timberwolves, everything you can imagine hiding in that forest. The second threat, the most dangerous one, are Malice’s vassals. If we’re going through the forest, Malice won’t make it easy for us. We’ll be playing to his homefield advantage.”

“A blind assault on Everfree would be rather unwise,” Zecora added. “When it comes to traversing the wilds ahoof, allow me to advise.”

“Zecora’s not the only one who has it figured out,” Elytra proclaimed proudly. “My squad mapped out just about every nook and cranny. Pass me the marker, and I’ll show you the areas corrupted with pathos.” She grabbed the marker from Shining Armor and drew X marks in the Everfree area. There were far more X marks than I would’ve liked.

“Oh dear, this does not bode well,” Zecora broke out in a sweat, “all of those are where the predators dwell.”

“That’s no coincidence I guess,” I said.

“Something tells me I should bring out Fluttershy’s bestiary on Everfree.” Spike suggested.

“Do it,” I nodded. Spike hopped out of his chair and left for the castle library. “So this sounds simple enough. When we’re ready to tackle the tree of harmony, Zecora and Elytra will guide us through. Noble and I should support from the air. Need to watch for ambushes and keep those vassals in mind.”

“That’s something I would like to bring up, actually,” Noble spoke up. “It’s very possible we can face another warlord before reaching the tree. In open battle they are usually flanked by hunter vassals who target threats and direct reapers. Reapers are not really combatants per se, but their most dangerous trait is the kamikaze.”

“The kamikaze?” Max asked. “Like the Nipponese kind?”

“One and the same. Once they worm their way into someone’s soul, they can self-terminate to shred someone’s soul apart. It takes some time to bury themselves in a target, especially in a strong one or if being stealthy, but once they do, the kill switch becomes active. Unfortunately for us changelings, they don’t need to go that far. Overload the hivemind link and then pop, bye bye changeling.”

I threw Noble an incredulous look. The way she can say that with such a straight face is unreal. Maybe it’s a changeling thing. “So back at the hospital, the warlord had that many reapers at his disposal? And he killed them off just like that?”

“To Malice, and by extension all his vassals, reapers are expendable and easy to produce,” Elytra answered. “They’re nothing more than magic given form and instinct. It’s cruel, but they are surprisingly efficient tools for his needs.”

“So we have to deal with ghost suicide bombers. Just great.” Shining groaned.

“And those are just the fodder of the vassals,” Noble continued. “Hunters are where the real fighting force is. If they’re not throwing down in their ghost forms, they can possess targets, driving them into a frenzy. If the target’s will is weak or they’re primitive, they can take full control.”

“And what about the warlords?” Max pressed.

“Think officers, but with a degree in badass. Never, ever take them for granted. If it wasn’t for Spike, there’s a real chance none of us with be here right now.” Noble pointed out.

“Well I couldn’t have done it alone,” Spike beamed. Noble, Elytra and Thorax were the only ones who didn’t flinch at seeing Spike suddenly appear in his seat. His smile fell, looking around in confusion while clutching a thick encyclopedia. “...What?”

“W-when did you get back?!” Shining gasped.

“Just now, actually.”

“Sweet Celestia, I didn’t hear a thing.” Shine stared in awe.

“Hehehe…” Noble seemed way too pleased with herself.

“It took me a whole year to be able to do that...” Thorax grumbled.

Max cleared his throat. “Let’s not get off track. We still have a princess to save. Have a few loose ends to cover first.”

Max grabbed the marker provided by Spike and drew a line between the southeast portion of Ponyville and Everfree forest. “My boys should be able to turn the town hall into a supply point for the frontline here. Before we mount a rescue though, we need to secure the town as a fallback position,and create a defensive line in case of a counterattack. The river may not look like much, but it will slow any aggressor down regardless of its size, and that’s enough time for unicorns and archers to rip anything that so much as looks at us funny a new one. They can use that as a barrier.”

“Hope it will be enough to stop whatever Malice decides throws at us,” Shining said before he turned to me. “We need someone at the townhall to get things going. That supply depot needs to be running ASAP.”

“I think we both know who we need, Boss. But before I send anyone off, I would like to get a communication line going. Spike, mind working your magic on everyone in this room?”

Spike’s eyes lit up. “Good idea! I’ll get right on it.” He hopped out of his seat and proceeded to bestow the Dragon Whisper connection to everyone while also explaining the process. Once we went out there, there was no telling when we would get the chance to do this once the fighting went underway.

“Thank you, Spike. Hey Shine,” I called out. “Mind heading to town hall and making some noise?”

“You got it, Cap!” Shine hopped out of her chair, saluted, then bolted out of the room.

“The Prism Guard will probably need to be the vanguard of the assault,” Sunburst suggested. “In fact, I did bring some extra armor for you all to wear. This should help dampen pathos effects. Although for Flash…”

“Hm? What is it?” I asked.

“I have a theory about something because of your unique circumstance. Sergeant Forte, can you let Flash touch your armor?”

“As you wish.” Forte shifted closer, standing at attention. The moment I touched the shoulder plate containing the gem, an echoing sensation flooded my hooves. Whatever it was sapped my strength, hollowing out my limbs. I released it instantly.

What in the world…?!

*It would seem these ‘disruptor’ gems live up to its name, destabilizing the flow of magic wherever it touches. Useful, but they will only delay the inevitable.*

I ignored Inner Malice. “It feels like whatever it’s made of is eating at my strength.”

Sunburst frowned. “As I thought. Malice is infused with the magic in your body. I’m afraid you won’t be able to use any gems without it hurting you, or worse. You can always wear the armor without the gems at least.”

“I appreciate it, but thanks to Elytra I’m good for now. Just my luck I can’t use anti-Malice wargear.”

“You can still throw lightning bolts and teleport without a horn, so forgive us mortals for having some sort of advantage.” Noble giggled. “Can Elly and I touch the armor as well?”

Allegro glanced at me. I gave her the go ahead with a nod. She positioned herself between Noble and Elytra, allowing their hooves to rest on her armor.

“It’s a little tingly, but otherwise harmless. Would be useful for a frontline engagement where transformations aren’t needed,” Elytra said after a moment.

Noble hummed thoughtfully. “Interesting. As great as this kind of protection would be, I need full access to my magic.”

“That aside, the Crystal Guard are not as fortunate to have that equipment. Not enough to go around,” said Shining Armor. “The Prism Guard needs to take out the vassal threats for us, then we can handle whatever else Malice tries to throw at us.”

I nodded. “Between the Prism Guard and my team, we should be able to handle the vanguard position. Elytra and Thorax can be our pathos fighters on the ground for the trip. Just in case, Noble, Shine and I should take point as forward scouts. We can communicate via Spike’s Dragon Whisper, so he should stick with you at HQ.”

A chuckled slipped out of Shining. “Sounds like a certain dragon got himself promoted to my S6.”

“What’s that?” Spike asked.

“Comms officer,” Shining answered. “Since all information will be relayed to you, you will be the centerpiece to making sure our communications are secured.”

“Finally feels like everything is coming together.” I said. “Malice no longer has a combative changeling squad to get us, and we have measures against the vassals. All that’s left for us is to finish getting our defenses together and make the assault. He’s not going to know what hit him.”

*Oh I wouldn’t be so sure about that.*

Dread crawled up the back of my neck. What do you mean by that, Malice?

*Listen well, colt. I have thousands of years of warfaring and combat experience, and that is before being sealed away by Discord. I’ve led campaigns to victory against impossible odds and have helped conquer an entire continent. Knowing that, try telling yourself again how assured your ‘victory’ is.*

Malice… what in the world do you have planned? What do you have left?

Inner Malice merely laughed.

...I was starting to get a bad feeling about this.

I burst through the town hall’s double doors with my shoulder, flanked by four hoof-picked privates. Town hall was buzzing with activity. Ponies zipping left and right. Paperwork floating through the air like confetti. My team stormed through the mess towards the Mayor’s office, ponies being smart enough to get the hay out of our way before getting trampled.

“Lancer, set up shop for ammo storage and field hospital. Hunter, clear this building. Dancer, Knight, with me.”

“Yes, Ma’am!” The two stallions split off to work on their tasks. Privates Dancer and Knight stayed by my flank as we marched into the Mayor’s office.

The mayor in question was at her desk, nose buried in a mountain of copy paper and folders. Between the frazzled mane and bloodshot eyes, it was clear she had not slept all night. The fact she didn’t so much as flinch when I barreled through the office door spoke volumes for her level of awareness.

I was about to announce myself as a sergeant of the Prism guard when I caught myself, defaulting to my usual civilian introduction instead. “Ma’am, I’m Sergeant Shine Spark representing the Crystal Empire forces. We need to commandeer this location to—”

“Papers on the left corner. If you got a complaint or emergency, speak with my secretary at the front.”

My privates took one step back, having much better instincts than this civvie.

With a swing, my hoof nearly split the table in half. Papers exploded from the desk from the sheer force of my strike and, more importantly, snapped the Mayor’s focus to me.

“As I was saying,” I forced out through gritted teeth, “we need to use this town hall as a supply point and field hospital for our soldiers. We need you to start evacuating everypony.”

“An evacuation?! Soldiers?! Hold on a second, there’s no need for something as drastic! Things are hectic enough as it is with that blizzard and—”

I snagged the mare’s muzzle in my hoof and brought it close enough for our eyes to lock. “Ma’am, this is not a request and it cannot wait. We’re about have a shitstorm that’s gonna make last night look like cakewalk. You can bury your face in paperwork later, but right now you need to get all these ponies out of here and evacuate right the hay now. Am I clear?”

The mayor’s eyebrow creased angrily together as she nodded slowly. I released her muzzle. She lingered for a moment, throwing me a fleeting glare just before she rushed around the table and past us, barking out orders for evacuation.

“Permission to speak freely, ma’am?” Silent Knight asked.

“Go for it.”

“I know we’re in a hurry, but wasn’t that going too far? We don’t even know if we’re going to be attacked.”

I threw a look at the private. “You’re right, we don’t know if we’re going to be attacked. Would you rather wait until you’re already attacked?”

“No ma’am.”

I gave him an approving nod. “Good. Now make yourself useful and help get this place up and running. You too, Dancer.”

“On the double, ma’am!” Silent Knight and Blade Dancer bolted out of the office. I knew I could trust my team to get things going. Until then, it was just a matter of waiting for Flash to give me the greenlight.

A nagging sensation bit at the back of my mind. Nothing about this OP feels right. It shouldn’t be this quiet considering what we’re dealing with.

A sudden tremor rippled through the wooden floorboards. I thought it was my imagination until it happened again. The mayor’s unattended glass of water on a nightstand shook from the vibrations.

“What in the…?” That bad feeling multiplied.

Private Knight burst through the door like he was on fire.

“Ma’am, the forest! Quick!”

That bad feeling struck a fevered pitch. “Knight, with me!” I sprinted towards the town hall entrance, Silent Knight only a second behind. I could only imagine what was coming out of the forest that spooked him.

I burst through the entrance, only to freeze mid-step.

A line that stretched as far as the horizon emerged from the edge of Everfree Forest. Timberwolves, chimeras, manticores, bears, tigers, just about every predator under Celestia’s sun rushed down the path towards us.

I placed a hoof on my chest, activating the Dragon Whisper.

“We got contact! The Celestia-damned forest is coming to kill us!”

Author's Notes:

What's up, my fellow paladins?

And so the final climax begins. Flash and the gang vs Malice and the marmalades. Place your bets!

This chapter was not as much of a headache to write as the last one, but certain mechanics behind it had to go through revisions to ensure it stuck with the vision of the story. Consistency is hard, yo!

Until next time, stay classy, my paladins!