A/N: hey, i'm still alive. sorry for the longer delay, but i have been having family things going on. this has been the longest time i have had to actually been able to get online. i hope you all enjoy this chapter, because it was a pain in the ass to make.

The Hive

The sun high in the sky and clouds rolled around, creating patches on the ground of light and darkness. What could have been confused for a mountain stood high, and as one would get closer distinct features would emerge. Circular holes dotted the mountain, each one the same size. The unnatural oval shape also removed the mountain look, but the most distinctive feature was that it was green.

“So, you used to live in a giant, green beehive?” Anthony said, looked at the hive from a safe distance. Scarlet was standing next to him, while the other two changelings just stood back. On the move to the hive, Scarlet discovered the two changelings’ names: Burche and Aydos. Burche was the nice one; Aydos was the hot-headed one.

“When you say it like that it makes it seem less glamorous. But yes I did, at least until I grew up and Chrysalis banished me. The changeling queen is everyone’s mother, so you can guess how I felt about that? So, how do we get in?” Scarlet asked Burche.

“Easy, we just walk in the door and challenge her for rule. After you defeat her, then you are free to rule us as you see fit,” Burche said.

“Then what are doing here, let’s go,” Anthony said, sliding down the slope and landing at the bottom.

“Where did you find this creature?” Burche asked.

“You don’t want to know.”

The quick run to the hive was uneventful, but that was a different story for when they got to the entrance. The entrance had a welcoming party, but one that favored Chrysalis. Burche and Aydos went first, so as to secure entrance. It didn’t go well, showing as Burche was blasted back and a spear was jammed up into Aydos’s face. The changeling’s brains stuck at the end of the tip and held the dead changeling up.

Anthony wasted no time, as a second spear was flying at Burche, and got between them. The spear was grabbed and broken in twine. The two guards had a look of horror on their face, and did the only thing they could do. They both fired a powerful blast of magic, which impacted Anthony. Smoke filled the air and blocked out all sight. When the smoke cleared, both guards stood dumb-struck.

Anthony had both his arms up to shield his face and they were burnt up badly. That didn’t faze Anthony as he brought both arms down, leveling them perpendicular to his body. He then charged at the guards with inhuman speed and grabbed them both, one in each arm. Taking their heads in his hands, he proceeded to fuse them together. Both guards fell to the ground, their heads one piece.

“Anyone else wish to fuck with me?” he said, anger in his voice. More guards ran out of the castle, to see what had made so much noise. They were followed by Queen Chrysalis herself. “I guess there are.”

Chrysalis halted her guards, seeing who was there and knew what was to happen if her guards kept going. Chrysalis flew on ahead, hoping to not lose more of her few loyal subjects.

“Well, well, well. It seems that my intelligence was right; the separatists have found a female. And protectors to go with her too, I wonder where she found something like that. Now I know that these rebels might have filled your head with lies, but I don’t believe it fair if you only heard one side. I cordially welcome you and your guardian entrance to my private dining quarters, so we may have a conversation like responsible adults,” Chrysalis said, shocking Scarlet. She was expecting more resistance, not an open invitation.

“What about Burche here?” Scarlet asked, being the only one who actually cared.

“What about him? He is the one who brought you here, so he will be allowed to return to his rebel friends. I see this as an opportunity to strengthen the changelings, and I can’t do that with dead subjects. Burche, you are free to go. I suggest you take it before I change my mind,” Chrysalis said, looking directly at Burche. The changeling silently nodded and left, knowing what the queen is capable of.

“How do we know you won’t attempt to kill us when we walk inside?” Anthony said, finally speaking after his silence.

“I want what’s best for the changelings, not destroy them. I promise on my honor as queen, no harm will befall the two of you,” Chrysalis said, holding up her hoof. Anthony was skeptical, but agreed to follow on the account that he could carry his weapons.

The inside of the Hive was like something out of the Alien movies, which did not sit well with Anthony. He had seen them too many times to be unprepared. They walked through the hive, the occupants keeping their distance from the hyper-lethal human. Anthony kept his hands on his guns, ready to draw and fire at any time.

The walk was uneventful and the group finally made it to Chrysalis’s private dining quarters, which is what one might think it to be for a changeling. A table sat in the middle, ropes on it to keep the victim down. Two chairs sat on either side on the table, and there was only one way in or out. Chrysalis motioned for Scarlet to sit, while she took the other chair. A pair of servants walked in to get the group whatever they wanted. Both changelings were fine, but Anthony asked for a bucket of water, a scrub pad, and some bandages.

“What would you need those for?” Scarlet asked, not thinking.

“For my arms. They’re burnt on top, so I need to scrub away the dead skin. Then clean and attempt at disinfecting it,” Anthony said, the pair now looking at his arms.

The skin on top was black as night, no skin visible underneath. The wound appeared to be painful, but Anthony showed no signs of it.

“I can heal that for you, as a sign of good faith,” Chrysalis offered, not expecting the answer.

“I’d rather not. My body can heal fast; I just need to help it some. I know how to care for my own body, and I don’t trust you,” Anthony said, keeping back from the queen.

“Fine, but if you wish for any assistance, just ask,” Chrysalis said, causing Anthony to internally gag. He knew that she would be nice as long as they were useful, but this was gross.

As the servant returned with the supplies, Anthony picked a spot on the floor that he could keep an eye on both the door and Chrysalis. He then proceeded to scrape off the burnt skin, which sent pain through him. He was able to ignore it and work, but knew that he should be more careful. Queen Chrysalis opted to wait for him to finish before beginning; she even had a chair brought in for him. The scrapping lasted for a few minutes, and the water finally washed away the grim. Anthony bandaged himself and reluctantly took a seat next to Scarlet.

“Now that we are all present, we may begin with why you are here,” Chrysalis said. The changeling queen looked at the still unicorn changeling, wondering why she hadn’t changed yet.

“We were brought here to over throw you, but I don’t have any desire to rule over the changelings. We need an army to face an evil that threatens everyone, not just ponies, but dragons, griffins, and changelings. This threat can even endanger different realities, which is far more dangerous. We are here to get that army, and we are willing to do what it takes to get it. If that means killing you fine, if that means that we just have to work with you, that is fine too,” Scarlet said, making a very good argument.

“Is that all? If that is all you want, then I can give you an army. But what’s in it for me- I mean the changelings?” Chrysalis asked, leaning forward.

“I have a heavy sway with Princess Luna, and I believe I might be able to grant a pardon for the changelings, allowing you to recover some of your lost land. I won’t be able to allow you to attack Equestrian cities, but I can allow you to have room to grow, and a possible food supply. I don’t have all the details, but it might be plausible,” Anthony said, sealing his fate to his words. Queen Chrysalis’s face lit up like a Christmas tree, knowing that no one would make a promise like that without some grain of truth.

“Really, you can do that? You can really find a way for us to have some land back and a food supply?” Chrysalis confirmed enjoyment on her face. Scarlet was shocked that Anthony would make a promise as this, and not bring it up with her.

“I said I might be able to, that doesn’t mean I will be able to. A pardon is more likely, while finding a steady supply of food for you is not likely. I will try my hardest to get these for you, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. What I am promising you is a hope, not a guarantee,” Anthony said, leaning back some and sighing. He was already tired, but hadn’t done a lot. Scarlet was wondering why it was so.

“I understand, but some hope is better than no hope. I think though that today should be one of celebration, for one of my daughters is home and there is a hope for the changelings. I want you both to be able to celebrate with us, so do we have a deal for today. Tomorrow, we can work out details,” Chrysalis said, beaming with joy.

“We would love to join you, just tell us where and when,” Scarlet accepted, thinking Anthony would be fine.

“Actually, I would be better if I got some sleep. I am having a hard time dealing with these burns.” Chrysalis looked at him like he was retarded, but sympathized with the Spartan.

“Of course, I remember being that stubborn. If it gets any worse, then I highly recommend getting it looked at by any changeling here. They will be more than happy to help you, being our guest and all,” Chrysalis offered, earning only a nod in thanks. Chrysalis called a servant over and told him to take Anthony to his room. The two left the room, leaving mother and daughter alone.

“So, how has it been without me here?” Scarlet asked, still a little sore about it.

“Oh, Scarlet, I would have loved to keep you, but the chance that you might over throw me was still a possibility. I gave you everything you would need to survive, and you did. You are my daughter, and I will always love you, but I had to look out for myself at the time. I’m sorry, and I will do anything to regain your love and affection,” Chrysalis said, sincerity in her voice. This almost melted Scarlet’s heart and brought tears to her eyes, then she remembered the day she was forced to leave.

“What about when you chased me out, yelling that if I ever came back you would kill me on the spot?” Scarlet argued, her voice cracking.

“Oh, darling. I never meant to hurt you, I just did what I had to do,” Chrysalis said, moving around the table and hugging her daughter. “I love you, and I promise I won’t do anything to hurt you again.” Scarlet started to cry into her mother’s chest, large sobs leaving the younger changeling.

Scarlet cried for a long time, Chrysalis soothing her the whole time. Scarlet finally stopped crying and just sat in her mother’s loving hug. Scarlet finally broke the hug and wiped away her tears.

“I’m sorry; I haven’t had a chance to talk about it. And I love you too, mom,” Scarlet said, looking at her mother.

“I know. And we can stay this way. Now, let’s go set up the party, it’s been too long since we have had an excuse to have a good time,” Chrysalis offered, pulling her child out of the chair. Both changelings made their way to announce the return of Scarlet, and to party all night.

And party they did. The changelings hadn’t stopped partying even in the very early hours of the new day. Scarlet had finally gotten back to her room, more drunk than a sailor on leave. She walked in and hit ever object she could. The noise level was enough to wake a dead bear, but she didn’t care. The changeling made her way to her bed, not even changing back into a unicorn, and fell asleep right there.

“I was wondering when you would get back,” a voice said behind the changeling, startling her awake.

“Wait, what! Who’s in here?” Scarlet asked, her horn powering up with magic.

“It’s just me; they placed us in the same room. You wouldn’t know that, considering the amount of alcohol you’ve consumed,” a being said, walking out of the shadows. It was Anthony, and he had a hard time keeping his face serious. Scarlet saw it was him and sighed, face planting into the pillow and falling asleep. Anthony just lightly chuckled and went back to his seat.

In the dark, not even a changeling could see, but Anthony saw just fine. His arms had already started to heal, but he had left because of something else even worse. He hadn’t told anyone about what it was that was really ailing him. He had found the book that showed him how to first use transformation spells, and the information in the book was not good.

I can’t tell anyone, but I will have to. But when, and whom? After Blackwing is dead, then I can tell them. After he’s dead, I won’t need to transform anyway. Anthony thought, deciding what he believed was best for him. He did know that he was wrong.

Canterlot Castle, Library

Princess Luna was leaving the library, heading back to her room. The night was uneventful, so she went to the library to find something to learn. She found a few books that had advanced protection spells and she thought it good to learn a few, considering she mostly had only combat spells. Celestia was the one who enjoyed the protection spells.

Luna was getting more careful with things after she had gotten pregnant. Her natural maternal instincts had been kicking in, and Luna was taking notice. Before, when she would walk through the training grounds, she would laugh at some of the guards who were struggling to accomplish a task, but now she would sympathize and even help them. Shining Armor asked her to stop, but she did it anyway. He couldn’t do anything about it anyway.

Luna also found a book on transformation, and saw that it had not been used in years considering the amount of dust on it. She returned to her room with the book and set to work getting ready for bed. The night was almost over, and she needed to lower the moon soon. The books sat on her dresser and she lowered the moon and watched the sun rise.

Luna sighed and retired to sleep. The dreams that followed were peaceful and soothing. The day was not so for Celestia.

The solar princess was having a hard time dealing with the political troubles. Blackwing’s army had become a problem for the citizens of Equestria. Different merchants had been raided and travelers had gone missing. Celestia had to keep the fact of Blackwing away from the public, but she knew it would not last long. She had to keep saying that she had her top ponies on it, but she was just stalling for time. She knew that word would get out, but all she did was wait.

Luna doesn’t have to deal with this, the bitch. Celestia thought, having to listen to another concerned citizen. All because she’s pregnant, she gets to just read the petitions and judge them where ever she wants. I wish she had gotten an abortion. Celestia was so mad that she was actively scowling in the throne room.

“Princess, is something wrong?” her assistant asked, snapping Celestia out of her thoughts. Celestia’s smile quickly returned.

“No, I just am having an issue wondering on who would be so terrible as to hurt somepony,” Celestia said, convincing the aid she all was fine. Up walked another citizen, this one a member of a very wealthy family in Canterlot.

“Princess Celestia, as you know, I am a part of one of the most wealthy and oldest families. I have also been the one who predicted the changeling invasion on our beautiful city. I have another prediction for you, Princess,” the pony said. Celestia still had not learned his name, but she trusted him and was willing to listen to him.

“What is your prediction?”

“There is a being that is causing all of these disappearances and raids. That human that was here six months ago, he is the one in charge of these forces. I know this because I have seen it in my dreams. As you know, what I dream is a reality. The real savior is actually an alicorn named Blackwing. I don’t know who he is, but he will defeat this human and bring peace to all of Equestria,” the pony said, Celestia detecting no lies. Celestia actually believed the pony too. When she went back and recalled all the information, it could point at Anthony being the real monster.

“Are you certain he is the one?”

“Yes, I know that your captain had gone to scout his army, and came back early. He did not report to you thought until the scheduled time the next day. If you ask him, he will admit to it, and if questioned further will say that the human was there to hand him the report and never actually saw the army.

“I also know that he was in Ponyville, getting the Elements of Harmony on his side. He then had some of his demons and a dragon attacks him, so as to keep the illusion that he is the good guy. In two months when he attacks, Blackwing will be there with his army to defeat this human and restore eternal peace to Equestria,” the pony said, who then turned and left. Celestia was dumb-struck. None had ever insinuated that Shining Armor would willingly work with a monster.

Twilight wouldn’t either, but then Celestia thought about how he was very intelligent and could have easily deceived her student and guard captain. Celestia closed the rest of the day court, so as to question both Shining Armor and her student.

The day was still young, and Captain Armor was just finishing with some of the weaker recruits. He was attempting to strengthen them for a force to counteract that of now Anthony’s army.

“Captain Armor, a word if you will,” Celestia said, getting Shining’s attention. He quickly had his recruits take a break and trotted over to the princess. He was not in armor, so as to run keep up better.

“Yes, princess, what can I do for you?”

“Certain information has been brought to my attention that you did not actually see Blackwing or his army, and in fact had the information given to you by Anthony. I am just checking to see if that is the truth, and I respect you enough to hear you first before making judgment,” Celestia said, watching his face turn from that of serious to that of horror. He was unable to vocalize what he wanted to for a few seconds before finding his voice.

“Yes, it is true. I did not actually see the army and got the information from Anthony. But I trust him with my life princess, and I do not believe he would do anything to threaten the safety of Canterlot and its citizens. And I know for a fact he would do nothing to endanger Princess Luna, I don’t know about you though. I think he’s still mad at you, and if given the option to save you or Blackwing he would pick Blackwing. Uh, no offense,” Shining Armor said, feeling as though he was being too open. Celestia just nodded her head, contemplating on how she was going to get him to see the truth.

“Would it surprise you to know that the informant also told me that Anthony is actually the one trying to over throw me and my sister?” Celestia asked, knowing she really surprised him.

“Well, that can’t be true. Anthony would never do anything to hurt Princess Luna, even if that meant that he had to obey your every command. He would rather grit his teeth and bow down to you, than hurt Luna. I know, because I would do the same for Cadance,” Shining Armor said, knowing it was not what Celestia wanted to hear. He knew this could get him in trouble, but he was not going to let anypony ruin Anthony’ or Luna’s reputation. Especially since neither of them were there to do it themselves.

“Is that how you feel, Captain Armor?” Celestia said, her voice becoming very serious and dark.

“Yes, and I will stand by it no matter what,” Shining said, holding his ground.

“Fine then, from this day forward, you are under investigation to see if you are working with the traitor Anthony and are relieved of duty. Have a good day to you,” Princess Celestia stated, turning on a hoof and leaving Shining Armor there. He had not lost his pride, and he still stood tall. One of his lieutenants trotted over to him.

“Sir, I’m sorry,” he said, Armor just looked at him.

“Ready the Task Force, they need to be told of this.”

The Hive

The human sat in the corner, ear buds keeping the noise of the world gone. He watched over Scarlet as she slept, acting as the guardian that Chrysalis suspected him to be. She wasn’t far off though, for he was willing to protect her, but not to the death. He knew that he was more important, and he had to protect others.

Scarlet stirred little as she slumbered on the bed, completely smashed from the drinking and partying. Anthony stayed in the shadows, so as to keep a better watch on the room. None would see him, and he would be able to remove any who would wish to deal harm in true silence. He was contemplating the facts he was hiding though, wondering when to tell. He was still conflicted over it, but knew it could wait a little while.

Scarlet finally woke from her slumber, holding her head in her hooves. She moaned as she looked around the poorly lit room and saw no one. She got out of the bed and fell to the floor, hard. Anthony lightly chuckled and went unnoticed by the changeling. Scarlet got back up and stumbled to what appeared to be the bathroom. Anthony hadn’t checked, him not caring and not needing to have used it. His bladder was large enough to last him a long time.

Scarlet had turned on a light, illuminating the room she was in and shining it in the bed room. Anthony was just outside the light and still hidden, but not as well as before. If someone was to look right at him, he would be discovered. The bathroom light became a non-issue when Chrysalis walked into the room and turned on the room’s lights.

“Ah, Anthony, good to see you, where is my daughter?” the changeling queen asked. Anthony just pointed to the bathroom and remained seated. Something was not making his day. Chrysalis just nodded and sat next to him and waited for her daughter. “Did you sleep well?”

“I don’t sleep, I wait,” Anthony said, keeping his eyes focused on the bathroom.

“Oh,” Chrysalis said, feeling the conversation go from casual to extremely awkward in just a few words. She chose to remain quiet the rest of the time. She didn’t have to wait long.

Scarlet finally walked out of the bathroom, still in changeling form. She noticed the two sitting in the corner and froze, not having heard either of them. She stared for a few seconds too long.

“I’ve been in here since I left the meeting, Chrysalis just walked in a minute or so ago,” Anthony said, removing the ear buds and placing away his IPod. He stood up and strapped his weapons on, walking out of the room to stand guard outside.

“Morning mother, are we ready?” Scarlet asked, turning from a look of mortification to one of happiness in zero time. Chrysalis just smiled and hugged her daughter. Chrysalis had a lot to catch up on, and she wasn’t going to waste it.

The two walked out the door and linked back up with Anthony, who was playing with his knife outside the door. The walked to the same room as before, except this time it had a pair of guards in the room and paper on the table. Chrysalis and Scarlet each took a seat, but Anthony chose to stand by the wall. He still had his knife in hand.

The meeting went by with boredom on Anthony’s part. He chose to remain out of the conversation, first not being able to speak changeling, and second his mind was in another place. Anthony was still reviewing the information he had read, and every time he went over it, the same information came up and it scared him.

A shiver ran up his spine. The human had never really known fear until then, and it was not a feeling he enjoyed. He sighed and placed the knife back in its sheath. He watched the two converse in their strange language, wishing he had his suit on. The translator would have been helpful at the moment. A noise disturbed the occupants of the room, causing them to all look at Anthony.

“Sorry, I haven’t eaten since lunch yesterday. Is there anything here for me?” he asked, hoping luck would finally be on his side.

“No, I’m sorry. We don’t have anything edible to you,” Chrysalis said, her voice sincere. Anthony just nodded his head.

“Alright, I’ll be back in a few hours then,” he said, turning and walking toward the exit.

“Wait, where are you going?” Scarlet asked.

“Hunting,” was all Anthony said, and he quickly left the room. The two changelings looked at each other, shrugged, and got back to working.

Anthony found his way out of the Hive and ran into the woods. Anthony ran for about a mile before he stopped. He examined his surrounding and smiled, knowing that he was stopped at a very popular game trail. He took out his knife and climbed the closest tree to the trail. Anthony chose a branch that was full of leaves and hung the most over the trail.

He was completely invisible and undetected by wildlife. The human removed an apple out of his pocket and dropped it on the ground so as to attract some prey. He didn’t have to wait long either, considering that none of the animals in the forest were actively hunted. A lone, young buck trotted over to the apple, blissfully unaware of the creature in the trees above it. Anthony waited a few seconds before falling from the tree and landing directly on top of the animal.

The deer tried to escape, but 280 pounds of muscle falling on top of you will stop anyone in their tracks. Anthony’s blade had slit the buck’s throat in no time, killing it quickly. Anthony proceeded to then drain the body of all blood, which lightened the creature. Anthony took the deer and slung it over his shoulders and walked back to the Hive.

“Can’t wait to eat this guy,” Anthony said to himself, wishing he could have potatoes with it. He hauled the load back to the Hive, unaware that he wasn’t the only out hunting.

Canterlot Castle

Shining Armor stood in one of the unused barracks, smelling in the mildew in the walls. It had been unmanaged, but it was private. The door to the barrack opened and a group of unicorns walked in. These unicorns weren’t normal though. Each on was as large as Shining, but their muscle tone was very well defined. No fat was able to survive on their bodies. Each of them were also wearing a different type of armor.

When Anthony had left, he hid a blueprint sheet for Shining Armor. This sheet had designs for a type of armor that was light weight and very effective against any weapons that were in their world. This suit was black and was not very bulky. It had a not just their back and shoulders, but their entire bodies were covered to provide full protection. Shining also found a training regimen that was adapted for ponies.

Shining chuckled to himself, knowing that this was from his world. Shining had trained each and every one of the ponies in that room, but the number was not large enough. Only twelve out of the fifty were able to keep up with the plan, but they were the best. The twelve ponies filed into the room and stood at attention. Shining breathed in deeply and spoke to his troops.

“I am sorry to inform you that Princess Celestia has seen fit to remove me from the position of captain. She knows of my loyalty to the human Anthony and doesn’t believe I can command any more. I will still remain in command of you, for she has placed you personally under my private command. This means that you will always take orders from me, but I understand if you don’t wish to. I am giving you this opportunity to leave. If you stay, there is a chance that you all may eventually labeled as traitors ad exiled. Leave now, or forever hold your peace,” Shining Armor said. Each of the ponies remained in place, and then Lt. Night Star stepped forward.

“Sir, permission to speak freely?” the Lieutenant asked.

“Permission granted.”

“Sir, I think I speak for all of us when I say that we will follow you into the very depths of Tartarus. A little thing like banishment won’t stop us, sir,” Night Star said, the whole team nodding their heads in approval.

“Good, then some things are going to change. We are enacting plan SHADOW, time to vanish,” Shining Armor said. None of the ponies batted an eyelash at the plan, for they all knew what was about to happen next. “You have three days to get your gear and any situations figured out, then we’ll move out. Meet back here in three days, and dismissed.”

The task force all saluted and left the old barrack, leaving Shining alone in the dark building. He then too left the building and to prepare to leave as well. He should have paid better attention to the windows, as a Night Guard moved away from the window and ran to inform Princess Luna.

Half-mile out from the Hive

Anthony walked along at a gentle pace through the woods, a smile on his face and whistle on his lips. He was able to actually clear his head and enjoy some time. Unfortunately, bliss does not last forever. He walked past another large tree and then blasted into it. He hit the tree with a thud and dropped the deer, rolling to the ground. He quickly stood back up and had his magnum drawn.

“Who’s there?” he said, scanning the area. He heard a maniacal laugh in the bushes in front of him. He fired a single round into the bushes, which he heard impact a shield.

“Oh, that’s no way to greet an old friend, is it?” A playful voice in the bushes said, sending a chill down Anthony’s spine.

“My friends don’t blast me into trees, now show yourself!” Anthony said. His left hand started to shake so he removed it from holding the gun and grabbed another clip for the gun.

“Fine then, you do enjoy ruining others fun, don’t you?” a now serious voice said, same being. Out of the woods came something that Anthony had not wished would come out. Blackwing stood in the small clearing, a wicked smile on his face and a shield around his body. Anthony kept the gun pointed at the alicorn.

“Blackwing, I should have known only you would be dumb enough to actually fight me alone,” Anthony said, his voice neutral but his eyes full of hate.

“Tut, tut, tut, don’t you have any manners. I just came by to give you a warning,” Blackwing said, pausing so Anthony could question him.

“Really? And what could you warn me about?”

“When I attack Canterlot, don’t come. Just stay here with your little forest friends and stay away. If you come to the destruction of Canterlot and chose to fight me, I will kill you. And I also have a small prize to give you,” Blackwing said. Blackwing then took a step back and his body started to change. His wings popped back and hips pushed forward. His front hooves shifted into fingers with claws on the end of each one. Blackwing stood up on two legs and was about the same height as Anthony. Anthony froze, not expecting this to happen at all. Blackwing just smiled.

Blackwing then raise one of his hand and inspected it, then he thrust it at Anthony. This sent another wave of energy crashing into Anthony. The wave was not powerful, but wasn’t meant to blast him, only distract him. Blackwing charged, attempting to ram Anthony. The temporary paralysis left and Anthony got in the action. Just as the new Blackwing was about to crash into the human, Anthony dodged to the side and jammed his knee into Blackwing's gut. The once alicorn leaned over, but instead of falling to the ground grabbed Anthony and threw him into a tree.

Anthony hit the tree hard and landed back on his feet, just as Blackwing charged again. Anthony didn’t hesitate to shoot the magnum at the creature in front of him, but the shots impacted the shield. He emptied the whole clip and filled it with a new clip when Blackwing came crashing down on the human. Anthony jumped back, but a claw swiped across his chest. Anthony felt blood start to pour out of his new chest wound, and Anthony did the one thing you should ever do while fighting; look at the wound.

This look was enough for the anthromorphic creature to grabbed Anthony by the throat with its right hand. He smashed Anthony into a nearby tree and held him.

“How do like my new ability? It’s not finished yet, but it will be for Canterlot. I was planning on just mutilating you, but I think it would be easier for the both of us if I killed you now,” Blackwing said, pulling out a blade from his hip. Anthony looked at him and smiled.

“I didn’t know you were this retarded,” he ¬¬¬¬crocked out. Anthony then took his fist and collided it with Blackwing’s elbow.

Blackwing howled in pain as his grasp failed and arm point at the ground. Anthony hit the ground and grabbed Blackwing’s head, allowing it to great his knee. As Blackwing came back up, Anthony took his head again and delivered a crunching head-butt. Anthony grabbed his gun off the ground and prepared to fire, but Blackwing had vanished in a flash of magic. Anthony had won the battle, but the war was still up in the air.

Anthony sighed and picked back up his deer. He continued his march to the Hive, his pace quickened. What should have been a thirty minute nature walk turned into a two minute power jog. He made it back to the Hive and made his way to the dining room. The guards had left the room and the two female changelings had been talking about something when Anthony crashed in.

Both changelings looked at him with a look of shock. His chest was still bleeding and the deer on his shoulders. He dropped the dead animal on the ground and took a step back. He was breathing heavy and looked tired, more than the day before. He then too fell to the ground in exhaustion.

Scarlet instantly trotted over to the human, finding he was still conscious. She looked at his chest wound and found it to be worse than it looked. Deep claw marks dug their way to the bone, and the bone was not healthy looking either. The bones looked enlarged and even Scarlet knew that it was not normal. He looked at her with a dumb smile on his face.

“It’s not as bad as it looks, but it hurts like hell,” Anthony said, the dumb smile still on his face.

“Oh really, And how bad is wound really, Mr. Toughguy?” Scarlet asked.

“I should be good in a day or two,” Anthony said, him not really caring.

“The claw marks might start to heal in a day or two, and I don’t know what to do about your bones,” Scarlet said. She waved Chrysalis over to see the wound, and she gained the same look of horror as well.

“Who did this?! I will make them pay for doing this to my daughter’s protector!” Chrysalis decreed, her anger rising.

“Blackwing, about a half-mile out from here. He ambushed me in the woods and it turns out that the demons taking up residence in him can change him. He stood up to about my height and was just as fast, but he was uncoordinated. I was able to break his elbow and smash his face in. He escaped before I could finish him off,” Anthony said, his voice not wavering or showing signs of pain.

“I can understand the claw marks, but what did he do to your bones. I know they’re not supposed to look like that?” Scarlet asked, focusing back on the bones.

“Actually, they are. For me, when I transformed into this body, it had augmentations to make it stronger, faster, and more durable than any human body could even hope to achieve. My bones can be considered to be unbreakable, and they are enlarge to hold up the extra strain of combat and G-forces. I’ll be fine, I just need to rest,” Anthony said, his energy leaving him quickly.

“Don’t talk, you’re too weak. Mother, can you help me move him please?” Scarlet asked. Chrysalis and Scarlet both lifted the human and headed toward the room he is staying in.

As they set him on the bed, Anthony started to mumble something incoherent. Most of it was jumbled u words.

“Sky…ground…fire…light…water…burn,” Anthony kept repeating. He was in no more control of his body than a wolf was of his hunger. The changelings looked at him with concern, neither knowing what to do. The pair decided it would be best if they helped the wound heal.

Chrysalis spat a green gel-like material out of her mouth and onto the human’s chest. The gel started to harden and constrict on his chest. Scarlet bit down on the human’s neck, injecting him with a healing poison. He stopped mumbling and fell into a comfortable looking sleep. Only he knew the truth.

Dream Realm

A black sky loomed over head, making the day seem as if it was night. The forest was quiet of all life, dead as the bodies that littered the ground. A lone figure stood on a hill, surveying his work. A fire raged on a body in front of the figure. Only a silhouette was visible in the low light, hiding him from the world.

Lightening sounded in the distance, foretelling of water to fall from the black clouds. The creature raised a hand and the forest started to burn all around him. The figure than turned and found something that surprised him.

Is this what you see to happen? The new being said, her voice calm and caring.

What have you? This is not of your mind, so be gone with you. The dark figure said, waving a hand at the calm being.

I have come so as to calm your mind. I have been away from you for far too long, for fear that my sister will take this away from me. The female being said, her form taking a better shape. A body of a large pony was visible, but other features were still too far gone.

I do not require the help of any; I can control my mind alone. The dark being said, his body becoming more consumed by darkness. His eyes turned red and showed an anger in him.

You do not have to do this alone, I wish to help you. I am risking everything to help you, please at least hear me out. The being said, her form taking on more light and shape. It was evident that she was an alicorn and her mane was long and flowing. Color was still void, but it was growing.

Speak your mind and leave, but do not waste my time. The figure said, the darkness temporarily receding. His shape was still impossible to tell, but it was calmer.

I have come to say hello to the one I love most. The one who is to be the father of my foal. And the one who loves me the same. The being said, her form taking complete shape in the dead world. There in the low light stood Princess Luna, her mane flowing and belly bulging with a foal inside.

The figure looked at who had invaded his dream and he began to cry, a cry that was of both sorrow and relief. The darkness left his body and the clouds, allowing the moon to shine through. The figure was now distinguishable as Anthony, Princess Luna’s love. He was standing there, unsure of how he actually got there. He was different though and it showed in what he was wearing.

His normal Spartan was replaced with a more medieval armor. Black as night and made of plate armor. Giant skulls rested on his shoulders and his helmet was removed. His eyes stopped being blood red and chose a soul blue, one that made it appear that he could see into your soul. His normal shoulder length, black hair was replaced with snow white mid-back length hair. He looked as though he could a hundred easily and then still have energy to kill a hundred more.

The armored figure had a shield that was of a dragon’s head on his left arm. In his right was a single blade. The blade had a slight curve to it and was wide, the hilt guard on it was two spikes. Blood coated the single-edged weapon.

Luna took a step toward him and he took a step back. She cocked her head up and he lowered his. Luna took another step toward him and he allowed her to, keeping his head down.

Anthony, is this what you fear? Luna asked, earning only a silent response.

Monster. Was all Anthony said, his voice still dark and evil. A hint of sorrow lingered at the end.

You are not a monster. Your mind is creating this to show your worst fear. You are trying to face your fear alone, and doing is not health. Besides, I wouldn’t pick a monster to impregnate me. Luna said, trying to bring him out of his depressed state.

I have done and will do things, and they have changed me forever. I am a monster. Anthony said, his voice sadder and less evil. Luna took a couple steps forward and was right in front of his shield.

Let me help you. Luna said, using her magic to move the shield. Anthony moved it out of the way and his sword pointed down and away. Luna took the last step and was directly in front of him. She moved her hoof forward and hesitated, looking up at Anthony. Sorrow filled his eyes.

Luna’s hoof moved ahead and placed it on his chest. When she did this, the black armor vanished and was replaced with the camouflage pattern clothes underneath. It spread from his chest to his arms and down his legs, cleansing him of the hate. The sword and shield vanished and his face turned back to the same brown eyes and dark hair. His eyes still lacked the same luster they had before the banishment.

There, now was that difficult? Luna asked, keeping her hoof on him. He smiled weakly and wrapped his arms around Luna. The two then shared a love-filled kiss. As they kissed, the landscape transformed from Death Valley to Spring Clearing. The moon was still out and full, shining down on the two lovers.

The two stopped the kiss and looked into each others’ eyes. Love shone in both and they remained locked in this way for what felt like hours. They two fully broke and sat down, looking up at the star filled sky.

I love you. Luna said, leaning on Anthony.

I love you, too. Luna, I have a confession to. I-

No need. I forgive you. You only did what was needed. What happens out there stays out there. I know you need something to help you with your dreams, so I hope this Scarlet is able to help. Luna interrupted, causing Anthony to blush. He hadn’t expected her to know what was happening out there.

Thank you, I was actually scared there for a second. Anthony said, holding Luna in his arms.

Really, you scared? Now I’ve heard everything. Luna joked, the two of them laughing. The two looked up at the stars and cuddled for the rest of their time together. Anthony disappeared, telling Luna that it was time to return back to her duties.

Canterlot Castle

Luna woke from her slumber to the night sky. She had entered the dreams realm at her desk and realized it was not the best place. She got out of the chair and cracked her neck, an extra loud pop following. She sighed and was about to go find something to eat when one of her guards ran into her room.

“Princess, I have important information!” the guard said. He quickly saluted and was just as quickly put at ease.

“What is it?” Princess Luna said, her voice telling of her irritation.

“Former Captain Armor is taking a group of his soldiers and leaving Canterlot. I came straight to you when I saw this,” the guard said, causing Luna’s ears to perk up.

“Really? Guard you did not see anything or anypony. If word of this reaches my sister, only destruction will follow, is that understood?” Luna said.

“Yes, ma’am,” the guard then left the room, going about his normal duties. Princess Luna sighed after the guard left.

Luna left her room and walked to find her niece. Luna knew that Cadance would be able to tell her where Shining Armor would be going, and maybe find Shining there already.

Luna arrived at the room just past midnight and knocked on the door lightly. A small light was visible from under the door, so Luna didn’t know if Cadance was still awake or had fallen asleep while doing something. Luna didn’t have to guess though as Cadance opened the door and smiled at Luna. The Lunar Princess walked into the room and the door shut behind her.

“Luna, what brings you tonight?” Cadance asked, a smile on her face.

“I came by to find Shining Armor, do you know where he is?” Luna replied.

“Yes, he’s actually in the bathroom now. He should be out in a few minutes. Is everything all right?” Cadance asked, a worried look on her face.

“You know that everything is not all right, and I just heard some information that Shining needs to hear,” Luna said, her voice of concern.

“What’s happened?”

“Something that he should tell you, for it is not my place. May I speak with him in private?” Luna asked, causing Cadance to worry even more. Reluctantly though, Cadance agreed, knowing that her aunt meant well.

Shining Armor walked out of the bathroom and was surprised to see Luna there. He was wondering what she was doing there when she spoke first.

“Shining, I need to speak with you immediately, and in private. Certain information has been brought to my attention that I think you should know,” Luna said, earning a shocked looked from the white unicorn.

“Of course. Cadance, honey, can you step out for a minute?” Shining asked, and Cadance agreed, leaving the two alone. Luna cast a noise cancelation spell, so as to keep their conversation truly private.

“One of my guards has brought to my attention that you and a group of your Task Force will be leaving. I know about what Celestia has done, and I think it is a good thing you leave. And I know where you should go,” Luna confronted the former Captain.

“And where is this place?”

A/N: hope it was worth the wait, because i am not redoing this. also, i hope you all love this side of Celestia like i do.