“Alright, is everyone briefed on their missions?” Cyrus openly questioned. Standing right on top of the same catwalk as yesterday. Overlooking the large and very spacious warehouse in front him. A warehouse that is now filled to the brim with changelings, civilians and seasoned guards respectively.

There were even a couple of drone workers as well, but their tasks was obviously reserved for the Job that their name implied.

Simple workers.

Besides them, a very clear and loud response was given by the aforementioned guards of the group while most of the more common changelings simply nodded to Cyrus’ callout.

Cyrus simply smiled at their response. Fixing up his own obsidian armor around his shoulders before continuing.

“Well then, I really do hope that all of you are now truly prepared of the task at hoof. Because today is the day where everything will change, either for the better or the worst. Let us work together as how we are all taught and trained to be. Because failure is NOT an option. We will either be alive, or be dead at the very end of this day. Let our ancestors watch over us as we move against the very figure we are sworn to follow no matter what. Her overall madness, disregard for even her own kin, and her insatiable lust for more power have caused all of this. A very clear sign that she is no longer fit to carry the burden and responsibilities that are expected of her. Thanks to her neglect, our food rations have never been lower, forcing many changelings to flee the hive in a search for more food to survive. Today, this shall change. So be brave, know your task, and do not fret, but rather focus on the future that you can all insure for all of our kin if we win this day. So prepare yourselves, and make your ancestors proud. Let the spirits of the past queens guide us this day.” Cyrus screamed, which in had the exact desired effect that the changeling had wanted.

A massive uproar of shouts and chitters erupted within the gathered crowd. All of them, even the normal working drones, were shouting, buzzing, thrusting their weapons and tools up into the air, and crying out for their destined victory.

Cyrus could only smile as this massive display of overwhelming approval and eagerness was echoing all around him. A sense of awe and pride that was also shared with the other two changelings that were positioned behind him.

Both the Captain and defected spy, shared the same smile as Cyrus.

Not for Mystic though. “Why in the ancestors’ names, do I have to wear this heavy and clunky armour? How are you, and the Zebras, are capable of wearing all of this metal in the first place? This stuff is just so awkward to wear, not to mention poking and rubbing against some…suggestive areas whenever I try to move. Is this normal?” She complained, actively trying to get her shoulder guards back to where they are supposed to be, while also trying to keep them from slipping.

Easier said than done. Especially when her left shoulder guard started to slip down again when she had just finished securing her right one once more.

Cyrus simply sighed, turning himself around to look at the frowning and struggling doe behind him. She was at the process of pulling around a piece of armour connected to her rear, before she finally realized that she was being watched. Quickly pulling her hoof away, she looked off the side with an even deeper frown and a slight blush adorning her cheeks.

Cyrus just shook his head. “You know very well why I have personally instructed someone to deck you out with your own set of armour. As much as you like to boast about your magical talents and skills…” This comment earned him a glare from the doe. ”…you will still need SOME form of magical and physical protection on you if you wish to accompany us deep within the main hive. Changeling magic, especially those who have extended training in the dark arts, are quite potent even if it is just a glancing hit or even just a near miss. Heck, I am fully clad in my own personal armor even though I am much more resilient towards changeling magic than you. Plus… “ He pointed at Mystic’s cuirass. ”…what you are wearing is actually an armour made of enchanted obsidian instead of metal. Already lighter than simple steel, and certainly much more mobile too. It may lack the sheer durability that actual steel armor has, but in turn possesses a much more resilient barrier against magic based attacks, thanks to the heavy enchantments that went into it.” He explained.

Mystic on the other hand, just grumbled to herself while still trying to move her armour in a much more comfortable position so it wasn’t grinding or pulling against her fur.

This caused Farries to quickly perk up as a thought suddenly struck the ex spy.

He rubbed his chin in though as he looked down at the same piece of armour he was wearing. “Maybe it is because it was designed for chitin in mind, and not something like skin or fur. I think Zebras, and other skin and furred races, use something called ‘paddings’ in their armor pieces to compensate for the lack of comfort within their armours. I actually witnessed the dressing and undressing procedures that the Zebra guards had done when dealing with their bodily protection. There was definitely padding in between these plates when I last saw it.” Farries openly commented, which in turn, got the immediate attention of both the Captain and Cyrus.

Cyrus hummed at this fact. “Well, this could certainly be the main problem towards Mystic’s issues.” He responded while looking the doe over.

He nodded to himself when he saw her still trying to struggle with the armour. “Well in that case, better add some padding to her armour before we can start bringing her down there.” He stated before looking for the nearest drone worker, and finding that there was one standing on the exact same catwalk as they are currently standing on.

He called out to him to get his attention. ”You over there! Go fetch some cloth and a changeling that is skilled in tailoring.” He ordered.

The changeling in question just nodded before opening up his wings and buzzing off of the catwalk to look for the aforementioned cloth and changeling tailor.

This caused Farries to focus more on something else. Something that he should have noticed since the beginning, but didn’t because…well…last night’s shenanigans with Dahla is still keeping his sense of perception at a minimum. He personally can’t stop thinking about it whenever he gets the free time to do so.

“Wait a minute, where…where is the princess? Shouldn’t she be here to add her last condolences towards her troops before the real heat begins? I haven’t seen her highness since this morning.” He asked, looking at both Cyrus and the still unnamed captain.

Unnamed because…why should he even be bothered to ask about the changeling captain’s name when the two were pretty much rivals at this point. Yesterday’s talk and the one this morning pretty much proved that these two are complete opposites. Something that stirs up a lot of tension between the two. One being highly traditional, while the other having become a lot more transparent on the things he likes.

Either way, the changeling captain just frowned and shook his head. A reaction that wasn’t at all surprising to him.

“For a so called ‘best changeling infiltrator’ within the queen’s ‘spy core’, you really are quite ‘out of your mind’ since this morning to even be allowed to still hold onto such a title. Perfectly proving my point earlier.” The captain retorted, much to Farries’ irritation.

He just let it slide for once, as he is personally feeling far too lazy and tired to even start another shouting match with this narrow minded hothead. Instead, he focused his attention to Sir Cyrus.

It did not disappoint. “Princess Palmyria is actually back at the High King’s Palace to get some more detailed information in regards to their own troop composition and that they are planning to send some down to assist with our efforts, AND to also personally deliver the message that I originally wanted one of the drones to bring up to the Zebra King this morning. Very important ideas and suggestions as to how his troops could help us with the momentary distraction we need to quietly slip by into the main hive itself through the same abandoned tunnels that we spent so much time finding and excavating on. But, I personally think that she just wanted to find an excuse to not have to talk to this mass of changelings herself. She can be quite skittish when it involves large crowds. A little personal weakness of her’s ever since she was nymph. Something she can thank her mother for.” He answered.

Farries just nodded to the answer before focusing back at he doe behind him. Finding it somewhat amusing in just how much she seem to be struggling with her armour. Despite the fact that it was perfectly put together to match her form.

Well…maybe a little too well, as her constant attention to her flank and crotch area were anything to go by. He wondered if he could maybe get something similar for Dahla to tease her with.

While Farries was once again getting himself busy with inappropriate thoughts and ideas, the working drone that Cyrus had sent off finally arrived with the tailor himself and a large roll of cloth clutched between his forelegs.

Cyrus just smiled at the two after they had landed right on top of the catwalk, and quickly getting to the point.

Time to padden the little frowning doe and her armor.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

“No, no, no, no, no…Those slices are WAY too thin. I told you to cut them thicker so that Penelope can actually hold onto them easier and not cause a mess like she is doing right now. You should know that claws’ sense of touch aren’t as subtle as finger.“ I complained, giving the cook a big ‘stink eye’ to get the message across.

Though, Penelope was still digging into her cheese slices regardless. Even though it was a lot more clunky and messy thanks to the constant tearing she managed to achieve whenever she tried to pick one up.

Not yet sure if her bottle feeding days are over yet, but then again, cheese is just another form of milk anyways. Only somewhat more solid, depending on the type of cheese.

Either way, the cook just quickly nodded before offering his sincerest apologies for the error. I simply waved him off after accepting his apology before taking a slice of cheese, treating myself with it.

Thick or small slices, cheese always taste good no matter how you cut it.

This scene was, frowned upon by my loyal captain and Susi. Somehow figuring out where I was hanging out when the clock managed to hit 12 in the afternoon. The dining hall of the Royal Palace to be precise.

Some like to dub it as the dining ‘ROOM’ but given its size and overall disregard to good use of space and common logic as to why it was so BIG in the first place, pretty much gave me a pretty good excuse to dub it a hall rather than a room.

Oh, the Princess herself was here as well. Looking quite confused at the scene involving a dragon and me having a little discussion about cheese thickness with the cook.

Rather inappropriate with the situation, but hey, why trouble yourself with worry when you can just relax and have some cheese with some silly antics to boot.

But, even I know that all good things must end as Bakuss just shook his head. Being as impatient with the situation as he always has been.

“With all do respect, your highness. We have far more pressing things to worry about than how thick the cheese should be. Reminiscent to Princess Palmyria’s presence.” Bakuss sighed, before gesturing over to the changeling.

She on the other hand, just gave me and Bakuss a rather shy and awkward looking smile while rubbing her left foreleg. “N-no, no, don’t mind me. I am…I personally wasn’t even aware that I was interrupting something in the first place. I…I can bring up the issue after his majesty and his daughter are finished with their meal. I…I can wait.” She answered, ending with her gazing down towards the ground and pawning it.

I smiled. “See, everything seems to fine, dear old Bakuss of mine. Come on, sit down and have a slice while we openly discuss whatever it is you have to tell us today.” I announced, looking over the changeling princess and gesturing for her over to take a seat.

She just nods, before slowly and shyly making her way over to the opposite end of the table from where I was seated, and placing her rump down onto an open chair. A somewhat clueless expression plastered on her muzzle as she began to look around.

“Why is everything within this Palace so…big and spacious? Why build so grand when the majority of its interior will never get used by anyone? Especially for those who can’t fly.” She mindlessly droned off while seeming to be in awe at the sheer size and overall impracticality of this ‘simple’ looking dining room.

I shrugged. “Beats me, but then again, you need to considered the fact that this complex was originally built by my predecessors who used to rule here long before I did. Those humans were most likely just as tall, if NOT taller than me.” I answered before taking another slice from the plate in front of me.

“Actually, they were somewhat taller than you, your highness. As far as the records are concerned from that time period, you might actually be the shortest monarch we had so far...I meant that with the utmost respect, your highness.” Susi suddenly informed, shrinking back a bit on her spot when I looked at her.

“You don’t say?” I responded, sounding and looking quite neutral at her…somewhat mild insult.

I shrugged. “Then again, being tiny also has its benefits. Usually meaning that most of the resources that are usually used for body growth during the adolescent years of your life, were instead thoughtfully used for ‘other parts’ of your body to compensate. All of that milk and meat that I consumed during my teenage years must have gone somewhere, if not for my physical growth since then.” I commented with a grin before taking another slice of dice while also giving one to Penelo as well.

It was gone the moment I gave it to her.

Bakuss just grumbled again. “Your highness, could we PLEASE get back to the matter at hoof here? We must formulate a plan, and endorse a course of action while the opportunity still presents itself. We have hostiles literally right beneath us, waiting to cause damage.” Bakuss announced. Again, sounding just as impatient and frustrated as he was when dragging his armored ass here.

It was my turn to grumble. “Ah, fine, fine, I get you. Just…just let me have one more slice from the plate, and we can finally get to the meat and grinder. Whoever said “it’s good to be the king” is totally nuts. Can’t believe people still fall for that slogan these days.” I muttered that last sentence out as I picked up my last slice of the day and quickly devouring it without chewing.

Only for me to start coughing as it clearly turned out to be a really bad idea on my part.

Once I managed to compose myself, I continued. “Well anyway…Princess Palmyria was it?” I gestured to her while still trying to get my breathing under control.

She nodded before starting. “Well uhm…for starters. I have personally came here to relay an idea that Sir Cyrus wanted to propose in how the Zebras might be able to assist us in the incoming operation that’s is going to take place today.” She began, giving me her full, unadulterated attention.

“Ooh, is that so?” I responded, looking and sounding very intrigued. “Then go ahead, I am quite interested to be enlightened. And so is Bakuss if I can guess from the look that he was giving me from behind you.” I added, ignoring the strange look that the captain was giving for that added last part.

“Well…” She began with a small pause. “Cyrus had come up with the suggestion that your guards will act as a distraction to draw the attention of most of my mother’s guards. While a smaller, much more familiarized force are going to quietly infiltrate the main hive from one of its many secret accessways with the hopes of meeting minimal resistance, if not at all, during first deployment. Giving us enough time to root out the source of all our problems, and hopefully detain my mother in a peaceful manner, instead of having to result to the obvious. She still is my mother after all.” She explained, looking down at the table at the end with sad look.

This caused Bakuss to hum. “Fair enough, then again, I wasn’t really planning on breaching the main hive anyway, for both the very obvious logistic and geographical reasons. I was actually kinda betting that you and your changelings would actively handle the more deeper areas of the underworld yourself, while we simply ‘plug the holes’ so to speak. As organized as we might be, we will still be fighting on unfamiliar grounds.” He answered.

“Plus, not to mention the natural home field advantage you changelings have down their as well.” Susi added, which in turn made Bakuss nod to her smartly placed input.

“I was going to add that as well.” He said.

Susi just grinned at him while Palmyria just seemed indifferent on the matter. Especially towards what Susi will say next.

“See, even I can be very observant and open minded about situations that present themselves towards our country. You don’t need to be a military stallion to have some common sense.” Susi explained towards the slightly surprised captain.

Bakuss just rolled his eyes before breaking his gaze with the still grinning mare next to him.

Not really sure where this tease suddenly came from. But, as long as it entertains me, I really don’t care what the subject is. Again, I lack both my computer and the internet in this world. I need to get my daily source of entertainment from somewhere.

Anyway, I got up from my seat and dusted myself off from any crumbs that were on me. As much as I liked to keep myself seated on my…well seat, while eat and drink the finest cheese and coffee that this nation has to offer, but alas, duty calls as a quick trip to the bathroom was now certainly part of today’s to do list.

“Well then, Gentleman…” I looked over at Susi and Palmy with a grin. ”…and gentlemares, it’s time to do what needs to be done so that we can finally start procrastinating the way we want to, without having the constant threat of ongoing war or whatever bullshit that is out there. Better to deal with all the issues now so that we can forget about them later. War is a bitch after all.” I announced with a raised finger that Penelo mimicked with her claw.

Bakuss just sighed again. “Well, for you that might be the case, your highness. But, for a lot of us, the concept of ‘forgetting’ is certainly not an easy process. Unlike you, we still have our own demons to deal with.” He added, again being the more ground and level headed individual within the room, like how he likes to portray himself to be.

Especially when there is the presence of another race nearby.

“What Demons?” Palmy asked out of curiosity.

Bakuss shook his head. “Nevermind, just saying that a lot of us still have a lot of work to do, especially if that line of work has the potential to pile up even more problems for an individual to deal with later on.” He answered.

Need to remember to give him a bit of counseling when this whole charade is over. He certainly seemed to be ripe for some good ol’ talking and soul searching by the looks of it.

But not now, obviously. “Well anyway, let’s just go and share this new tidbit of information to the local officers that are going to be in charge of the groups picked to perform this so called ‘diversion’ of yours.” I stated with an added air quote towards the princess before looking back at the captain. ”Again, I hope you did a good job in picking those who will partake in this very crucial job, dear Bakuss. Because…in a way, the lives of these mares and stallions are resting upon your very hooves regarding your decision. I hope you know that.” I comment, being somewhat of a ass to deepen whatever wound that is still mentally plaguing him from the last battle, before making my way to the exit with Penelope neatly sitting against my right arm.

Bakuss just sighed as he and the two girls followed suit.

“Yes, yes, I know your highness, I know. I did my best in picking those who managed to survive at the front rows during the battle against the Minotaur forces. It is really up to their training, discipline, and overall teamwork that is going to help them get through this very day. That, and the competence levels of the officers leading them. A head is obviously detrimental to the rest of the body it’s trying to control. Especially in times of strive and war.” He responded, becoming somewhat philosophically at the end which I can give him a thumbs up for.

Most normal people would normally try and cheer up such a down sounding person. But in my case, I seriously have absolutely no idea what to even say or do to him regarding this matter.

As he said, we all have our own set of demons to work with, some being a lot more secretive about it than others. The only difference with me is that the demons that I was originally paired with had long since given up in trying to sway me to their way of thinking, and just decided to procrastinate as well with their own IKEA bought couches that they got from their local furniture store.

Why fight them if you can join them. THAT was their motto of the day.

Who knew that dealing with your own problems basically translate to doing absolutely nothing, and just straight out ignoring them. Resulting in them pretty much doing the same thing to you, giving you and themselves the peace and quite that all living and not so living creatures crave for.

Wait…to who and what I am monologuing too?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

“Alright, is everyone geared up? Does anyone know what is expected of us today, or rather, know that this time we will be forced to fight in an environment that heavily favors the enemy and not us? If very idea causes you to feel discouraged or frightened, speak up, because no shame shall fall upon you or your name if you feel more keen in listening to your own natural instincts rather than your duties and orders. So again, come here and speak up if you feel unprepared for this task. What will it be?” Liuandad shouted, facing and looking at each and every one of her fellow Zebras one by one as she passed them.

None of them were even showing the tiniest amount of doubt or fear in their eyes. Once they step into the catacombs, there will be no turning back. Communication, supplies, and even the naturally soothing and encouraging rays of the sun will no longer be a source for them to tap into.

They will truly be at the mercy of their enemy. Fighting them in the dark, where their natural eyesight and sense will give them a home field advantage. A concept that is made even worse when you consider the fact that changelings are natural spellcasters as well. A type of weapon that most Zebras have very little experience with. Which is why such magic negating crystals, such as nethicite, are a true blessing in times like these.

But even so, the very idea of such operation approved and conducted in the first place is very much insane. The only reason as to why Liuanda and the rest of her platoon are even doing this, is because of both the number disadvantage and equipment disadvantage that the Princess’ forces suffer in comparison to the queen’s.

Needing and having to ask for the assistance of a much more organized and well equipped faction to help reclaim their home and the livelihood they once knew, or rather, help the princess beat off her mother so that she can accent to the throne and somehow get everything back to the way they once were. A notion a lot of changelings seemed to get behind to, just for the sake of bringing things back to a more peaceful state.

Only time will tell.

Either way, Liu smiled under her helmet when no response was given. All of them standing tall and proud with no visible fear or doubt in their eyes.

It’s moments like these where she is proud to be a guard, to partake in the recreation of a new future for their kind and a new golden age for their nation to enjoy.

An age which was crushed, taken, and lost from them deep in the past by unknown reasons. Or at least, towards the normal populace.

It is actually somewhat discouraging to know that the captain himself was NOT going to be personally participating with this operation, just like during the battle with the Minotaurs. Which is also why the king himself has promoted her from sergeant to a commissioned officer for this very reason.

A sudden promotion that still left Liuanda shocked and confused to her very core whenever she thought about it. Mainly because that is not how military promotion works, but he IS the king.

“Not to mention how spontaneous he declared my promotion when the captain made it very clear that he won’t be joining us.” Liu thought to herself while not noticing the very person that she was currently thinking about approaching her.

“Officer Liuanda!?” Bakuss called her out when he was literally standing right behind her.

Liu almost jumped out of her armor when Bakuss’ voice registered within her armor covered ears. She immediately whipped herself around and saluted the well respected captain behind her.

Almost forcing a sheepish smile on her muzzle, despite the fact that she was wearing a faceguard to cover her face. Certainly the best reaction towards unexpected surprises, especially when she is soon going to get herself into a situation where such a lack of perception will get her killed without a moment’s notice.

“Certainly not the best first impression as the new leading officer of a guard branch.” She thought to herself with grimace.

She just mentally chided herself for her lack of focus and reaction. She now questioned if the king’s decisions to put her on the captain’s place was even a good idea to begin with.

Certainly doesn’t feel like it.

“Yes, sir?” Liuanda eventually replied when she realized that the captain was giving her a very alarming and curious look.

“Are you suddenly taking lessons from the king himself, or are these ‘spacing out’ moments are a bit more common for you as well? If so, then I hope that it won’t repeat itself when you are actually down there. I would certainly hate to see those I personally know, be the next victim of both war and neverending bloodshed.” Bakuss stated, giving the newly elected officer both a raised eyebrow and a sense for concern.

Liu on the other end, just shook her head quickly at the captain’s accusation before swiftly regaining her composure.

Bakuss just sighed. Deciding to push this issue on the back burner for now, and just focus more on the actual task at hoof. All he can really do is hope that Liuanda will do what needs to be done when the situation demands it, while also staying cool and level headed as well. Nothing gets you killed faster than losing yourself in a critical situation during battle. A mistake that he himself almost made at the battle with the Minotaurs when their leader brutally and mercilessly killed one of his fellow guards in front of his very eyes.

The serious problem he had with that experience was the fact that he personally knew who this mare was before she decided to join guard just like her older brother, who he enlisted with into the guard half a decade back. She was so much younger than him, which made her death so much more tragic. Even more bitter in how excited she seemed when she eventually made the cut to join the guard.

Took her brother a good week to somewhat get over the quick and early loss of his younger sibling. These are generally one of the things that still disturbs him in his line of work. It is a way of life, but that doesn’t make it any easier.

Death is still death, no matter how you slice it.

“Uhm…captain? Hello?” Liuanda announced, waving a hoof in front of the captain’s face, immediately snapping him out of his thoughts.

He began to look around himself, momentarily confused before the realization dawned on him.

“Did I seriously just spaced out too?” Bakuss thought to himself, quite surprised and somewhat worried at the same time.

“Oh dear gods above, the king’s influence is even spreading through me. His antics and ways of behaving are ever present without his presence. How is this even a thing?” he again mentally asked himself, again being shocked and somewhat scared as to what this might imply.

He just shook his head to get these feelings and ideas out of his mind and focus back at the reasons why he has personally approached Liuanda and her branch of guards in the first place.

“But then again, it does give me a nice break from my…” He immediately stopped himself.

“No, focus Bakuss, you are meant to be the professional one here. So, act like one.” He loudly told himself.

This gave him a lot of strange looks from the aforementioned guards in front of him. Including Liuanda, who was giving the captain her own set of raised eyebrows.

Bakuss noticed this and promptly composed himself. Mentally telling himself that he should not think too much about his issues whenever presenting himself in front of his fellow guards.

The fact that he was momentarily zoned out, just like the king, is embarrassing enough on his end. Just imagine how the king would react if her ever found out that his antics have also infested themselves within the minds and surroundings of his subjects.

In fact, he WILL know eventually, he just knows it.

“I just personally came here to check on your branch one last time, and see if you and your troops are ready for deployment. Both physically and mentally, because it is time to move the first groups down into the catacombs. The changelings are already opening up the hidden tunnels that they had excavated.” Bakuss explained, feeling quite pleased that he managed to get to the point of this conversation.

Liu immediately perked up at that, completely forgetting the strangeness that had just transpired. “Oh, in that case, we are ready as ever, sir. All briefed, trained, and equipped with the new nethicite infused shields that were given to us. We are ready to do what we are trained for, captain.” She responded proudly, a look of determination that was silently shared with her fellow mares and stallions behind her.

Bakuss nodded. “Good, because your branch is going to be the first to go down there, alongside with a changeling escort. Not only will they be providing guidance within the tunnels, but they will also act as scouts for your fellow guards. Not to mention providing some magical offensive and defensive capabilities when things start to get real. Basically, acting as a small group of magic flinging skirmishers too. That should certainly give you boys and girls some level of versatility down there.” He explained, making the mare simply nod in understanding at the provided information he gave her.

The captain continued. “The meeting and entrance point into the catacombs is going to be at the same old warehouse where the king and the princess had originally emerged after the incident at the market. I presume that you know where that is, because it is literally the largest building in the West Bazar.” Bakuss added, while pointing a hoof at the general direction where it is.

Being up at the Royal Barracks made the hoof gesture that he did kinda pointless. Not only are they located pretty high up in relation to the rest of the city below, but the entire complex is pretty much walled off as well, which again, just made his hoof gesture pretty much useless.

Bakuss quickly noticed this, and just groaned. Though luckily for him, Liu pretty much already knew the exact section of the city he was referring to.

She is actually currently living quite close to the West Bazar. Also, her parents’ house was there too, so…it’s pretty easy to say that she knows that part of the city quite well.

“Don’t worry sir, I am quite versed as to where you are referring too. after all, I was there when it happened.” She responded.

“Well in that case, you better be off then. The second batch of guards and changeling escorts that are going to assist you with the diversion are most likely already on their way to the rendezvous point, if not, they are already waiting there. And remember, stay close and stay true. If you keep your training in mind and your wills to heart, you should be ok even in the most dangerous of situations. Just make sure that both your shield and spear are always pointed at the enemy at all times, and also try to assist your changeling allies if you can. They may be great with their magic, but they are somewhat lacking in melee combat as far as I have heard.” He quickly added.

Liu again just nods. “Don’t worry captain, we know what needs to be done. We will survive, and drive them back ourselves if the opportunity allows it.” She responded, giving the captain one last salute before turning towards her fellow guards.

“Alright, you heard the captain. We are to meet at the large abandoned warehouse at the west bazar. We are among the first to go down there, so if any of you suddenly feel the need to back down, now is your last chance to do so.” She announced, looking over at the assembled guards of Zebras lined up in front of her.

None of them responded, which made Liu slightly smile under her helmet again.

“Well in that case, line up and follow me. The more we wait, the more time we will give the enemy to move up towards the surface.” She ordered, taking point of the newly formed column and leading them down towards their destination.

Bakuss on the other hand, just stood there watching the line of guards leave the barrack grounds and past the gate which was facing directly into the city below.

Bakuss just sighed for the upteenth time of the day after the last Zebra disappeared around the gate’s corner. Leaving him standing alone on an open and very large training field. Not a single soul was close by, not even on the walls. Giving him the closest feeling that he has ever felt to truly being alone. Alone with his thoughts, and inner demons that plagues him.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

“Alright, the last group of Zebra guards should be coming by shortly. Then, we can all starting moving down there, and start to seek out and engage the queen‘s loyal forces, so that the infiltrators don’t have to. Our sources have said that large amounts of activity has been seen down there since the last time they checked. So, expect an encounter sooner or later down there.” A changeling guard explained. Looking over the at the assembled Zebra guards in front of him.

All waiting patiently and eagerly in front of the large warehouse. The only drawback with this was that they pretty much managed to garner up a large crowd around them, all giving the large mass of guards some very curious, and also some down right suspicious stares from afar.

The changelings were smart enough to disguise themselves as fellow Zebras themselves, to avoid unnecessary attention that could lead up to a mass panic. Though, one of the officers leading the Zebra guards actually insisted that the crowd would more likely react with wonder and slight suspicion instead of going full blown panic by looking at the changelings.

Archaemedia is after all, a major hot spot for any race or traveler that seeks to cross the vast Zebrican Deserts to either reach the west coast, or reach the east coast. Or, to reach the much more lush plaines and port towns to the far south west or the ancient hoof made continental bridge to the east. Hailing from places such as Saddle Arabia from the east, or the Amagonda Jungles and islands from the west. Or even going so far as up to the most southern reaches of the Equestrian continent too.

The Zebras overall, are no strangers when it comes to seeing all kinds of outlandish races and cultures passing through their lands and settlements.

Either way, the leading officer of the first group just sighed. Tapping his hoof a bit in earnest as he began to personally check the gear of his Zebras for the upteenth time, out of boredom.

And to give his mind something to focus on other than the upcoming task at hoof. He won’t lie, he doesn’t feel particularly keen of having to go down into the long forgotten catacombs of the old Imperial days. Not to mention having to face down creatures that have never been faced before by his own kind, or even by other species.

Or so he thinks.

According to the changeling who spoke earlier, neither anyone, or even his own kind, really had much contact with the surface dwelling races for as long as recorded history. Or rather, the history that managed to survive thus far by being written down and remembered within the collective memories of all the royal and noble changelings that still live to this day.

A very strange and alien concept indeed. A race that is capable of passing on some of the memories and know hows of the previous generations. But then again, there were far more outlandish sounding concepts out there too. Like the king for example, as some of his fellow stallions liked to joke around a bit whenever they were off duty.

But ONLY when they’re drunk.

The officer sighed again, though this time, getting the attention of one of the changelings next to him.

“You seem bored, or maybe even nervous to some extent.” The ling asked, which in turn got the officer’s attention.

He shook his head. “Bored, yes. Nervous, no. Just a little anxious that’s all.” He responded.

The changeling smiled. “Don’t worry, you’re not the only one who feels somewhat nervous or scared as to what is to come. It’s natural, and also…” He paused and sniffing the air between them. “…I can smell the scent of fear coming from you. Remember, we changelings have the ability to either sense or smell emotions. Emotions are our main source of food anyhow. So, having an inborn sensitivity to it goes hoof to hoof in a natural sense. Plus…” He pointed a hoof at some of his guards. ”…you’re not the only one.” He finished, keeping his smile to try and get just a little bit confidence into the stallion.

He was just silent for a couple of seconds, turning and twisting the changeling’s words inside his head, before he eventually shaking his head, and rubbing his armored forehead which is still as useless as ever. Bad habits die hard after all.

“Darn changelings and their alien biology.” He muttered before looking back at the ling next to him. “Fine, fine, you are correct. I am indeed feeling a tad bit of fear. I just didn’t want the rest of the troops to know for obvious reasons. Not the best motivator towards your troops when they found out that their leader was actually feeling fear.” He responded, looking over at his fellow mares and stallions and seeing them casually converse with one another, most likely to keep their minds off of the reality that they will soon find themselves in.

Their almost perfectly enclosed helmets and faceguards making it hard to read their true emotions from where he stood.

“Well, I think that knowing what your commander feels while he is still having the drive and incentive to throw himself into dangerous situations because it is his duty, does create a lot more character and more motivation than simply being a fearless leader. Plus…” He pauses a bit. ”…it makes the commander seem just that much more noble and charismatic looking. Again, it’s natural for any living thing to fear death. In fact,…” He looked off the side. “…I am technically a lot worse off than you. Because before all of this, I was just a simple working drone, basically destined to just do most of the physical labor for the rest of the hive until I am told otherwise. Basically, living on the bottom of the barrel. A mere peasant in most surface dwelling terms.” He explained, rubbing the back of his head and looking down at the ground with an unsure look plastered on his muzzle.

Probably just getting occupied by his own doubts and worries.

The officer raised his eyebrow at this. “A mere peasant? Then what are you even doing up here with the rest of us if you are not even that well versed in the arts of fighting?” He asked, brushing the previous comments aside for the sake of this one.

The changeling was about to response before being quickly interrupted by his own superior. Said superior pointed a hoof at something at the end of the Bazar.

“Dear foremothers, finally. The last batch of guards have finally arrived.” He announced, practically switching everyone’s attention to the arriving group.

“Finally indeed, I was somewhat getting a bit anxious myself.” The Zebra officer sighed. Watching the group of guards snake their way through the large crowd in the market.

Liuanda immediately stopped and saluted the moment she was within earshot. “Batch officer Liuanda and her guards reporting.” She greeted, to which the other officer returned.

“Batch officer Isgar here. We’ve been waiting for your troops for quite a while now, really anxious to get this thing started the moment we arrived here. Took you all quite a long time to get here.” He greeted, removing his hoof from his chest.

Liuanda sighed. “Well yes, sorry about that, it was just…we came all the way from the royal barracks way up from the noble district, right next to the Palace. That obviously means that getting down here can take a while.” Liu answered, stealing a quick over the shoulder glance at the Palace that they just left before looking back at the fellow officer.

The now known Isgar nodded. “True, true. my guards and I came from the east district barracks, which of course, is a lot closer than the royal one.” He added, before diverting his gaze to the leading changeling to his right. “Are we ready to go down there?” He asked, giving the changeling leader an expecting look.

He nods. “Very much so. As long as nothing hinder us, we are pretty much ready to go.” He responded, before looking over at the changelings behind him.

He was about to give his orders when something else quickly caught his attention instead. Or rather, everyone’s.

“Wait, wait.” Little Steppes shouted as she came galloping and dodging her way through the thick crowd and towards the assembled group of guards.

Liu raised a surprised eyebrow as the young doe quickly halted herself right in front of them. Huffing and puffing air out of her mouth, obviously trying to catch her breath

Both Liu and Isgar, out of mere curiosity, simply decided to allow this curious little doe to catch her breath before even thinking about asking.

Not so much for the changeling though, as he swiftly seized this moment to pretty much ask the one million Girahr question, with Girahr being the name of the Zebra’s currency. “What is this? Who are you and what do you want? Can’t you tell that we are about to conduct a very important operation here?” He asked, his irritation quite audible in his tone despite the missing facial features to portray it better.

Just like with the Zebras, he too was wearing a set of armor that which was basically covering almost all of his body, minus the joints on his legs and his blue shining eyes through his helmet.

Little Steppes continued to heave for a couple more seconds, before finally lifting her gaze, looking up at the collection of changelings and Zebras with hopeful eyes.

“Please…take me with you...” She boldly stated, causing both Liu and Isgar’s eyes to widen in surprise.

“What…why would you want us to do that? Are you even aware what exactly you are asking for?” The changeling leader asked, sounding genuinely surprised as well.

Even worse she wasn’t even properly decked out for such a request as well. Just running around in her skin and fur.

Instead of seeming intimidated, like how the changeling had hoped. The actual response he got for his question was a rather determined looking glare from the Gazelle. Something he certainly didn’t expect, especially in how frantic she looked in the beginning.

“Yes, yes, I am fully aware as to what I am getting myself into, and frankly, I don’t care.” She boldly stated, again surprising Liu with the sudden assertiveness of this otherwise timid and frantic little girl in comparison to her much more bold and loudmouthed sister.

The changeling leader was about to respond, before Liu quickly stepped in. She obviously knew this doe a lot better than both Isgar and the changeling does. The changeling reluctantly agrees, allowing the newly dubbed officer to take the ropes of this unwelcomed distraction.

He has obviously much more important things to worry about besides talking to insane surface dwellers who seem to have a death wish.

“Better hurry up, Officer Liuanda. We have to move quickly if we want to force the attention of the queen’s guards on us, and not the team of infiltrators moving through the tunnels. If they ever get wind of their actions, we might as well start abandoning everything we planned for. Not to mention being forced to an actual full scale war, literally under YOUR soil.” The changeling warned, frowning and tapping his hoof impatiently and giving the doe one last glare before stepping away.

Little Steppes also ignored the grumpy looking changeling, and instead focused her attention to someone she already know. Not much, but certainly better than anyone else around here.

Though Liuanda didn’t look pleased either. “Little Steppes, are you truly aware what you are asking for? You are neither armed, nor armored for the occasion, and as far as I know, you also lack any significant combat skills or talents. Your request to come with, as far as I know, is downright ridiculous.” She openly criticized.

Though again, to Liuanda’s surprise, Little Steppes just shook her head. “I don’t care. My sister is down there, and I would be damned if I ever allow her to get into harm’s way or worse, without me being close by to help her out. We may not know one another that much, or really see eye to eye, but she is still my sister. A bond which is naturally close for every Gazelle, even if they know or don’t know each other.” She rebuked, keeping her determined look and tone. Showing that she was far from being intimidated or convinced otherwise.

Liuanda was taken back. She had to admit that the boldness, seriousness, and perhaps even fearlessness towards a serious and deadly endeavor was more or less commendable. Even downright respectable considering how she usually is. Not to mention the sense of loyalty she openly shows for her sibling.

Her sister at least seemed like an individual that could hold her own in a fight, especially with her magic casting abilities. But Little Steppes? So far she only had displayed herself to be somewhat good with words, and being far more reserved than her sister. Maybe too much so.

Either way, here she is, looking at Liu with expectation while still leaving a lot of questions open as to how and why.

Questions that she just felt needed to be answered just for the sake of her own unhealthy sense of curiosity.

“Then why here?” Liu suddenly asked.

“What do you mean ‘why here?’?” Little steppes responded, being momentarily confused by this this out of context question.

“Why didn’t you just go straight for the place where your sister is instead of coming here? You probably ventured all around the city, asking guards and citizens about the whereabouts of where we are. So, why not ask around where these changelings might be? Heck, you could probably sniff where your sister is located by how good you two claimed your sense of smell is. So, why not go straight to her instead of here?” Liu asked, giving the doe a very curious looking stare and a raised brow.

Steppes on the other hoof, just looked at the mare in front of her with a neutral look. Before pawning the ground. ”Actually, I already have done that, only to quickly find out that the entire warehouse, where they were supposedly hiding out, was already empty when I got there. Not sure where they went, but I am obviously intelligent enough to know that going down there alone is not the smartest plan. So I came galloping all the way over here instead by asking some zebras the whereabouts of any large group of guards. And here I am.” She explained.

“Okay…but that still also doesn’t explain how you…”

“I asked the king, he pretty much told me everything I needed to know.” Stepped quickly interrupted.

Liuanda frowned. “Well yes, yes, of course his highness would do that.” She responded with a sigh. ”Sometimes…or rather all the time. I have no idea what in gods’ names is going on inside his head. Sometimes he is like this, sometimes like that. But then again, it also kinda makes it difficult for any of his enemies to accurately read him. Which obviously means that…” She tried to say before a tap on her shoulder promptly interrupted her.

She looked over said shoulder and was immediately greeted with an angry looking changeling. Getting the message almost immediately she looked back at the doe with a frown.

“Either way, you can’t come along for very solid reasons.” Liu quickly started, which in turn caused Steppes to reel back at bit at the swift rejection.

She was about to rebuke, before Liu raised a hoof. “For one, you don’t have any armor and equipment on you. Second, you probably also lack any military or some of the most basic fighting skills as far as I know. In other words, you will only be a massive liability for us and the changelings. Sisterly love or not, your decision is foolish and downright suicidal. Not to mention detrimental to our plans as well...” She quickly added.

Little Steppes was taken back by this. not only did they just outright rejected her, but also direct dismissed her natural relationship with her sister. She was shocked, even insulted to a certain degree, and she was about to make her demands heard once more when Liu didn’t just interrupted her yet again.

She raised her hoof to silence her once more. “...buuut, that doesn’t mean that we can at least fit you out a bit more properly, while also giving you some pointers along the way on what and what NOT to do. If you keep close and listen to EVERYTHING I tell you, I see no problem in letting you join us, as...irresponsible that might be of me.” She added, looking off the side, looking quite unsure of what she had just said.

Little Steppes capitalized on that chance before officer Liu could even change her mind, by quickly nodding, smiling to herself before swiftly taking a more serious look on her muzzle.

After all, she should take this more seriously.

“Alright, which one of you are responsible for carrying the extra gear and side arms? Give some to Little Steppes over here, and let’s go. We have already wasted enough time as it is.” Liu announced.

The changeling commander just shook his head at this, while Isdar just kept quiet towards Liuanda’s decision.

“It’s her funeral if she stand in the way of a stray arrow or magic projectile.” He thought to himself.

At this point, both sisters were pretty much involved in this whole changeling debacle with one very distinct goal in mind. Retrieving the idol and regain their right of returning home.

Or at least, that is the idea.