Friendship is Magic: The Seventh Element

by Master Mr B

"When the sixth element is revealed, a special element can appear that is a combination of the other six. It serves as the controller that bounds the power if the six elements together. But nobody, not even the royal sisters, have ever uncovered this...Seventh Element..." Follow my OC as he takes part in the adventures of FiM. And possibly win the heart of Twilight Sparkle...

139. The Times They Are a Changeling

The Times They Are a Changeling

Pony's Log Number 616: Sometimes even ponies forget that there is good in every creature...

A train was making its way to the Crystal Empire. Twilight and Mario had decided on a impromptu visit and had brought Starlight, Spike, and Diamond Tiara along with them.

"I hope Shining Armor and Princess Cadance don't think it's too soon for my husband and I to come back to the Crystal Empire for a visit," Twilight told Starlight as she look out of the train window, "But I just know Flurry Heart's grown so much already. I wonder if I'll even recognize her. I wonder if my husband and I will even recognize her." As Twilight was talking Mario was sitting across from his wife while Starlight sat beside her reading a book.

"Honey, there's no way I can forget a little filly who likes to snuggle into your face all the time," said Mario as Diamond Tiara, who was sitting beside him, giggled.

"She's the only baby they have, Twilight," Starlight added, "I think I'll be pretty easy to figure out who she is." Twilight just grunted annoyingly at the both of them.

"Sorry," said Starlight as she closed her book, "I know you and Mario want to visit your niece as much as possible, and I'm excited to see Sunburst again. I just don't wanna fall behind on my friendship lessons back home."

"I don't either," said Diamond Tiara.

"Starlight, Di, your work in Ponyville isn't going anywhere," Twilight told them, "Besides, I think we all know you can learn about friendship anywhere. Right, Spike?" Twilight leaned forward to look at a seat across from theirs. Spike was sitting opposite of them wearing a trench coat and holding a newspaper.

""Spike?" Who's "Spike"?" Spike asked in a deep voice.

"Oh brother," said Diamond Tiara, face-hoofing herself as Twilight and Mario gave Spike funny looks. Starlight just smirked.

"Pfft. Uh, you're Spike, Spike," said Starlight, "And why are you dressed like that?" Spike groaned.

"Guys, you're blowing my cover!" Spike complained as he tossed the newspaper away and walked up to Starlight and Twilight. He was also carrying a small travel bag with him.

"Because you're you...in a coat, hat, and glasses," Starlight said as a matter of fact.

"Only a complete airhead wouldn't recognize you," Diamond Tiara added.

"Gee...thanks," said Spike sarcastically.

"Also, we're the only ones here," Starlight added as Spike looked around to see that the lilac unicorn was right. They were the only ones in that train car.

"Right," Spike replied.

"Spike, why do you need a disguise?" Twilight asked.

"Last time we came to the Crystal Empire," Spike explained, "there was a lot goin' on with the new baby and the Crystalling, but I still got mobbed in the street."

"That's...actually...true," said Diamond Tiara and winced, "I even got knocked into a crystal mailbox when some ponies shoved me out of the way. Ugh, it left a nasty bruise on my shoulder." Diamond Tiara rubbed her left shoulder when she remember the pain she felt upon the impact. Mario gave it a light rub, which made the filly smile and feel better.

"I wouldn't say mobbed," Starlight pointed out.

"Lured was more like it," Diamond Tiara remarked.

"I said I was sorry!" Starlight protested irritably.

"Sorry, big sister," said Diamond Tiara as Mario and Twilight shared knowing smirks with each other.

"My point is that this is just a family visit," said Spike before adding smugly, "I wouldn't want the presence of Spike the Brave and Glorious to turn it a kind of circus." Twilight, Spike, and Mario just smirked.

"We get it," said Starlight, "The Crystal Ponies adore you."

"He did save the Empire. Twice," Twilight added.

"Yeah, but take it easy with that inflated ego of yours, Spike," said Diamond Tiara, "we still gotta get your head out of the train car." Mario snickered.

"Oh very funny," said Spike indignantly, "You should talk, little miss ego!"

"Hey, I'm not that kind of pony anymore!" Diamond Tiara shot back, "I've learned that having money doesn't make you better than anypony else. Just lonely..." Mario gave her a gentle hug.

"Well, at least you were smart enough to learn sense, my faithful student," said Mario as Diamond Tiara smiled and nuzzled his side.

"But still, Spike," said Twilight as Spike began searching through his little travel bag, "I don't think your presence will turn our visit into a circus."

"Not if I find the right disguise, it won't," said Spike as he posed with a bright orange afro wig with his hat and sunglasses. Twilight, Starlight, and Mario just shared smirks with each other. Diamond Tiara burst out laughing.

"Spike, you look absolutely ridiculous!" Diamond Tiara laughed. Spike just blew a raspberry at her and rolled his eyes.

(main theme)

Once their train arrived at the station and had puffed away, the four ponies and Spike were surprised to see that the platform was empty.

"Uh, disguise or not, Spike," said Starlight, "I don't think you need to worry about being mobbed. Nopony's here." The sound of the wind whistling could be heard as a tumbleweed drifted across the foreground.

"It's like a ghost town," said Spike as they headed to the Crystal Empire.

"I've got a bad feeling about this," said Twilight.

"Hey! That's my line!" Mario complained.

"Aw, cutie jealous I beat him too it?" Twilight cooed in a teasing tone as Starlight and Diamond Tiara snickered. Mario just stuck his tongue out at his wife, who returned the gesture and smirked at him.

Soon, they were walking down the streets of the city, which was looking just as empty and deserted.

"Yeah, this is weird," said Starlight remarked.

"I'm definitely sensing an unusual amount of fear amongst the crystal ponies," said Mario as his horn flickered pink.

"I wonder what's got them all so afraid," said Diamond Tiara.

"You're guess is as good as mine, my faithful student," said Mario, "Best to keep your eyes, ears, and mind open."

"Yes, master," said Diamond Tiara with a nod.

"I guess I don't need the disguise after all," said Spike as he removed his disguise. Not three seconds later, Spike was surrounded by crystal ponies.

"Here we go again!" said Diamond Tiara as she rolled her eyes.

"It's Spike the Brave and Glorious!" Honeysparkle shouted.

"He's come to save us yet again!" Sapphire Joy added.

"Spike! Spike! Spike! Spike!" the crystal ponies shouted as they tossed Spike up and down.

"Save you from what?" Spike asked.

"Yeah, what's going on?" Starlight asked.

"Why was everypony hiding?" Twilight added.

"Is there anything we can do to help?" Mario asked as Diamond Tiara nodded in agreement. Two crystal ponies, named Amber Laurel and Scarlet Heart, looked at them nervously.

"Oh, it sure looks like Princess Twilight and Prince Mario and their pupils," said Amber Laurel.

"But how can we be sure?" Scarlet Heart remarked as they both winced.

"We can't!" said a third crystal pony named Golden Vas, "Either one of them could be the...you know!" The pony then cringed and ran off.

"Wuh?!" said Diamond Tiara in confused as Mario, Twilight, and Starlight shared puzzled looks with each other. Amber Laurel gasped.

"What if this..." Amber Laurel gasped again, "isn't..." she gasped a third time, "the real Spike?!"

"Everypony, run!" Scarlet Heart screamed. The other crystal ponies ran for their lives, leaving Spike hanging in the air before he landed hard on the street below.

"Okay. Something strange is definitely going on," said Twilight.

"Ya think?" Spike groaned. Diamond Tiara helped Spike get back on his feet.

"One of the ponies did mention something about us not being...well...us," said Diamond Tiara, "And I just remembered something...do you think the changelings have returned?!" Starlight and Mario cringed.

"Di, don't be silly," said Twilight, "Cadance and Shining Armor dealt with the changelings years ago."

"But, as you said, dear," said Mario, "it was years ago and all their magic did was send the changelings flying as far away from Canterlot as possible, no vanquish them. More than enough time had passed for them to form an attack on the Crystal Empire for revenge!"

"The only other possibility is another threat that knows the art of physical change," said Diamond Tiara.

"I'm sure we'll get some answers as soon as we get the castle," said Mario, "Come on!" The group wasted no time reaching the center of the city where the crystal heart and the castle were. Two royal guards were standing nearby as they nervously approached.

"Who goes there?" the first royal guard asked.

"Um, you don't recognize the Princess and Prince of Friendship?" Starlight remarked. The two guards just glared.

"Of course we recognize them," said the first guard.

"But that doesn't mean it's really them," said the second guard. Twilight and Starlight shared looks with each other. Mario sighed.

"There is a way we can settle this issue," said Mario plainly.

"How?" Twilight asked.

"We could tell them something about us that only the real us would admit is true," said Mario. Twilight, Diamond Tiara, and Starlight all cringed.

"Mario, please!" said Twilight.

"There's gotta be another way!" Starlight pleaded.

"Yeah," Diamond Tiara said nervously, "the first fact that I could think of is really embarassing!"

"It can't be as bad as what I'm going to say," said Mario with a straight face.

"It's okay, guys," said Spike, "They're with me. And any friend of Spike the Brave and Glorious is a friend of the Crystal Empire, am I right?"

"Oh brother," Diamond Tiara remarked with an eye roll.

"Huh," said the second guard, "It does look like him."

"Well, it would, wouldn't it?" the first royal guard replied and stuck his face into Spike's, "I'm sorry, but we'll need to see some sort of identification." Spike just looked dejected as Mario inhaled sharply.

"Guess we have no choice," said Mario, "I..."

"We'll take care of things from here," said Cadance as she, Shining Armor, who was wearing his military armor, Sunburst, and Flurry Heart, who was sitting on a floating gold baby carrier chair. Mario just breathed a sigh of relief.

"Oh, Cadance, thank goodness!" said Twilight, "What's going on?"

"We can explain, Twily...if it really is you," said Shining Armor firmly.

"Okay, I..." Mario tried again to say his little fact.

"You don't need to say anything embarassing, Mario," Cadance said as she cut him off.

"I kind of wanted to hear what he was gonna say," Shining Armor muttered with a smirk on his face.

"Shiny..." Cadance warned in a low tone.

"Sorry..." Shining Armor said annoyingly. Cadance then walked up to Twilight and Mario.

"Sunshine, sunshine..." Cadance began.

"...ladybugs awake!" Twilight and Mario sang and danced with Cadance, "Clap your hooves and do a little shake." Then they shared a happy group hug together and Sunburst approached holding Flurry Heart in her baby chair. Diamond Tiara snickered.

"I can't believe my master just did that," Diamond Tiara giggled.

"That's nothing," Spike smirked, "He and Twilight actually did that dance to seal their wedding vows!"

"Seriously?" Diamond Tiara remarked and they both chuckled.

"It's okay, everypony," said Shining Armor, "it's them."

"Of course it's them!" said Starlight as a matter of fact as she walked up to Sunburst, "What's all this about?"

"A changeling's been spotted nearby," Sunburst explained.

"A changeling?!" Twilight and Mario spluttered.

"I was actually right about that?!" Diamond Tiara added in disbelief.

"That's not good," said Spike.

"No, it's not," said Cadance in agreement, "After Queen Chrysalis took my place at our wedding and invaded Canterlot with her army of minions, we're not taking any chances."

"Certainly don't want to be the victim of another inside job," Mario remarked. He could never understand how Shining Armor, spell or not, couldn't tell something was off when Chrysalis was impersonating Cadance. It didn't help Shining Armor always got too defensive to want to talk about the situation either.

"Indeed," said Sunburst, "Changelings feed off of love. And ever since Flurry Heart's Crystalling, the Empire is filled with more love than anywhere in Equestria. The only other source would be Twilight's castle because of the Flower Sprites, but it's love magic is still trivial compared the Crystal Empire. It's possible they've come for the baby." Mario walked up and made his horn glow pink for a moment.

"Whoa!" said Mario, "Sunburst is right. I can sense that Flurry Heart's love magic is just as strong as mine. While I have the Flower Sprites to protect me from any changelings who would want to feed off my love, Flurry Heart doesn't have any true protection. Maybe some resistance due to her still being a baby and the innocence of her heart, but it won't be enough..." Twilight and Diamond Tiara shared worried looks with each other.

"That's why we posted the extra guards," Shining Armor added, "and why we're-"

"Checking everypony's identity," Twilight finished for him.

"I'm sorry for all of this," said Cadance, "Flurry Heart's really been looking forward to seeing you." Flurry Heart just giggled and cooed as Mario, Twilight, and Starlight gathered around her and smiled.

"Good to see you again, sweetie," said Mario. Flurry Heart then flew up and held onto the side of Mario's head. Giving him a kiss, which made a cute baby sound, before snuggling his cheek.

"Aww!" Twilight and Starlight said and chuckled as Flurry Heart landed back into her baby chair.

"Oh, she's gotten so big!" said Twilight as Flurry Heart grabbed her fore-hoof, "My husband, Starlight, and I will do whatever we can to help protect her."

"To be honest," Cadance replied, "having you here already is a big relief." It was then the second royal guard whispered something to Shining Armor.

"Hmm," Shining Armor pondered before speaking, "The royal guards were wondering if Spike the Brave and Glorious would like to join in the search for the changeling."

"Really?" Spike remarked.

"Uh, I don't know if that's such a good idea, Spike," said Twilight worriedly, "It sounds dangerous."

"Come on, Twilight," Spike boasted as he flex his arms, "This is Spike the Brave and Glorious you're talking too. Have you ever known me to run from danger?"

"Um..." said Twilight slowly.

"Did you want us to answer that question?" Diamond Tiara asked sarcastically as she walked up beside Twilight. Spike just slumped forward in defeat. Mario then walked up on the other side of Twilight.

"Di," said Mario, "Maybe you should go with them."

"Me, master?!" said Diamond Tiara in shock.

"We've spent alot of time building up your athleticism and endurance since you've become my student," said Mario, "and I've been teaching you how to handle yourselves in sticky situations. I think you could prove useful in helping Spike and the guards find that changeling. Just promise me you won't do anything reckless or stupid. I'm putting alot of trust in you."

"You won't regret it master," said Diamond Tiara excitedly, "I'll watch over Spike and do my part to help out!"

"I don't need a chaperone!" Spike remarked.

"Could've fooled me," Diamond Tiara remarked as Spike grunted at her.

"They'll both be safe with our guards," said Shining Armor as he leaned forward.

"Or will your guards be safe with me?" Spike bragged.

"I'm voting more on the guards," said Diamond Tiara bluntly as Spike shot her an annoyed look. Twilight and Mario just smiled and rolled their eyes, but the later also shook his head. He knew the two were friends, but he hoped this mission would get them to work together and sass each other less.

It wasn't long before Spike, with Diamond Tiara at his side, lead a large group of royal guard through the outer regions of the Crystal Empire. Since it was snowing, and because the filly wanted to be prepared for the worst, she had packed her pink winter coat and a pair of yellow earmuffs for the trip and had put them on as soon as they reached the outer limits of the city.

"Spike the Brave and Glorious," said the first guard, "you've faced the evil changelings before. What can you tell us?"

"Well, according to our research..." Diamond Tiara began.

"Excuse me, little miss Tiara," said Spike annoyingly, "I believe the guards asked me about the changelings, not you!" Diamond Tiara snorted but then smirked.

"Very well, Mr. The Brave and Glorious," said Diamond Tiara in a sarcastic tone, "Tell them everything you learned and studied about the changelings." Spike glared but then lost composure a bit when he saw all the guard looking at him.

"Oh, uh, well, they are changelings, so they can...change," Spike stuttered.

"Wow! Changelings that know how to change," said Diamond Tiara in mock amazement, "Never knew they could do that!" Spike shot her a dirty look.

"You hear that?" the first guard told them others, "These monsters can look like any of us, so be on your guard, guards! Even more than normal."

"And they could be anywhere," Spike added as the other guards nodded in agreement.

"So we should cover as much ground as possible," said Spike, "You, search that way!" The pair of guards rushed away.

"W-w-wait!" Diamond Tiara called out.

"And you, search that way!" Spike told another group as they took off in another direction. And other guards then took off in different directions as well. Spike then noticed that he and Diamond Tiara were alone.

"And...I'll...just search...here, I guess," Spike remarked. Diamond Tiara was shaking her head.

"What now?" Spike snapped.

"That was the dumbest idea you could think of!" said Diamond Tiara, "We should've stick together. Changelings get the upper hand against their opponents by spreading them out thin and attacking them one by one with sheer numbers!"

"Why didn't you say something before?" Spike asked angrily.

"I would've," Diamond Tiara retorted, "but somepony said they wanted to be in charge despite the fact I'm the one who's got the cutie mark for leadership!"

"Don't you mean bossing others around?" Spike remarked.

"No, that's not real leadership," said Diamond Tiara before adding in a sad tone, "I learned that the hard way. Being a good leader is doing what is best for your team and not just giving orders. Just haven't found the confidence to actually try and be a leader yet. I was hoping I might have my chance now..." Spike softened after hearing that. He often forget Diamond Tiara had humbled herself considerably despite being rather sassy around him.

"Look, I'm sorry I didn't hear you out, okay," said Spike, "The best we can do now is do our part and search around ourselves."

"Any idea where to start?" Diamond Tiara asked with concern.

"Not many places to hide," said Spike as he and Diamond Tiara walked up to a rock, "Unless that rock is a changeling."

"What?!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed in disbelief.

"Okay, rock," Spike demanded, "How do I know you're really a rock?" The rock said nothing as Diamond Tiara had a bored look on her face, "Hmm. Not talkin', huh? We'll you can't fool me!" Spike then kicked the rock, cracking it in half.

"Uhh! Ow!" Spike yelped.

"Spike, will quit messing arooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooound!"

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

Spike and Diamond Tiara walked into a patch of snow that caved in beneath them both, causing them to fall and scream. The cracked piece of rock Spike had chipped also fell down the hole and tumbled right after them. Spike and Diamond Tiara were at the mercy of a steep ice slide and were unable to stop their momentum.

"Help! Help! Help! Help! Help! Help! Help!" Spike yelped as Diamond Tiara held him for dear life. The broken piece of rock continued to tumble after them. It was then the two friends saw that their slide ended in a small bottomless ravine.

"Uhh!" Spike grunted.

"EEK!" Diamond Tiara screamed. Spike had smacked into a crag with Diamond Tiara holding him for dear life from behind. Their chasing rock fell into the ravine. But the two friends were safe.

"Phew!" said Spike as he kissed the crag that stopped their momentum. Diamond Tiara just panted heavily for a moment before she sighed with relief as well.

"One of these days you're going to be the end of me," Diamond Tiara whimpered.

"You're welcome for saving your life!" Spike remarked.

"Sorry," said Diamond Tiara as she let go and moved away from the edge of the ravine, "Now what?"

"Okay, maybe it's time Spike the Brave and Glorious," said Spike before adding quickly, "And his right hoof pony."

"I can work with that," said Diamond Tiara.

"We went back to, uh, protect those guards," said Spike.

"Good idea," said Diamond Tiara as she looked around the cave, "Just how exactly do we-"

"Gah!" Spike yelped as he saw himself standing before him and then sighed with relief, "Just my reflection." Spike and Diamond Tiara turned to leave, but then the "reflection" of Spike remained.

"Huh?" said Spike suspiciously as he started doing poses and faces before the so called mirror, "Ha! Ha-ha!" The "reflection" managed to mimic all of Spike's moves and poses.

"Hmm, just my imagination I guess," said Spike as he walked away.

"Um, Spike," said Diamond Tiara uneasily, "If that is an ice mirror...why can't I see my reflection?" It was then they heard the sound of somepony tripping. They both turned around and saw Spike's "reflection" dusted itself off. It then winced once it saw their act was revealed and expose their true form.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!"

Spike and Diamond Tiara screamed.

"Ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-changeling!" Spike stuttered.

"G-g-g-g-g-get away from us!" Diamond Tiara stuttered as she and Spike fell into their bottoms backing away and then ran for their lives.

"No, wait! Come back!" said the changeling.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!" Spike and Diamond Tiara screamed. Spike then ran into the crag and Diamond Tiara ran into Spike. The two were left woozily and ended up wobbling right over the edge of the ravine just as they recovered their senses!

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!" Spike and Diamond Tiara screamed as they fell into the ravine. But then their fall momentum was stopped when they found the changeling had grabbed both of them.

"This is unexpected," said Spike.

"Yeah," said Diamond Tiara wearily, "Unless he only saved us so he could feed on our love." The changeling set both Spike and Diamond Tiara into the snow.

"The ice is pretty slippery," the changeling told them, "I wouldn't want you to get hurt because of me." Spike and Diamond Tiara were surprised.

"You...saved us?" said Spike slowly.

"And...he's really nice," said Diamond Tiara in a rather stunned tone.

"It's okay," said the changeling sadly, "I know you don't wanna be friends." The changeling turned to hover away.

"Wait!" Spike shouted.

"Hold up!" said Diamond Tiara, "We didn't mean to sound ungrateful. We're just...surprised. We didn't think a changeling could be as nice as you."

"She's right," Spike added, "I don't understand. Changelings are supposed to be evil...right?"

"Evil?" the changeling answered, "Oh, not me. All I've ever wanted is a friend."

"You don't say," said Diamond Tiara with a curious look on her face. It was then a flashback was shown featuring a dark cavern filled with several insect like eggs.

"From the moment I first split my egg in the nursery hive..." the changeling narrated as his baby self broke out of its egg. The other newborn changelings came out of their eggs hissing and glaring at each other. His baby self whimpered and cowered back into its egg. The other changeling babies crawled toward Chrysalis and started absorbing her love magic. She then nuzzled and smiled deviously at the baby changeling that represented himself, which the baby cringed fearfully.

"I was part of the attack on Canterlot during the royal wedding," the changeling continued as the flashback showed him, now an adult, hovering about as he saw his fellow changelings attacking and fighting, at the time, the Mane Seven and Shenran before he became part of the group, "but I'd never seen true friendship like that. And I couldn't just steal it and feed on its love. I wanted to share it!" It was then the explosion was seen that Cadance and Shining Armor had created, with the help from Mario and Twilight, sent the entire swarm flying away.

As the flashback ended, Spike was in the verge of tears. Diamond Tiara's lips were quivering as tears streamed down her face.

"After that, I knew I couldn't live with my kind anymore," said the changeling, "I set off looking for love to share. but..."

"But...what?" Spike asked.

"I'm starving!" the changeling answered, "And there's so much love in the Crystal Empire right now. It's what drew me here. But it's drivin' me crazy!"

"That would be from the royal Crystalling," Spike explained, "It's pretty much a giant outpouring of light and love from the new baby." The changeling then hissed loudly, making Spike and Diamond Tiara winced.

"Oh, sorry!" the changeling apologized, "I'm just so hungry! If I had a friend, maybe the love we shared could sustain me, but I don't think the Crystal Ponies want to be friends."

"I know exactly how that feels," said Diamond Tiara sympathetically, "being raised by somepony who could care less about your own interests and is just using you to get what they want. Then you finally see sense, but when you want a chance to show you're not like them, they turn you away and make you feel like you could never belong! No matter how hard you try!" Diamond Tiara was shedding tears again as she sniffled.

"Well it's nice to see that you understand my situation," said the changeling, "after all, most ponies do think changelings are evil."

"Well, I don't think you're evil," said Diamond Tiara, "You're actually very sweet."

"Heh...thanks," said the changeling, blushing slightly. Spike then got an idea.

"What if I told you there was somepony they respect and admire so much, he could convince them to give it a try?" Spike offered.

"Oh...here we go..." Diamond Tiara remarked with an eye roll.

"If only that were true," said the changeling sadly.

"It is!" said Spike, "I mean, I am! It's me Spike the Brave and Glorious? I'm sure you've heard of me."

"Nope," said the changeling, "But I was raised by an evil queen. Um...I'm Thorax. I can't believe you want to help me."

"We wouldn't turn away any...uhh...creature...from looking for the magic of friendship," said Diamond Tiara, "Or in need of a friend."

"Yeah," Spike said in agreement, "Why wouldn't we? Hasn't anypony even just been nice to you?" Thorax gave another loud hiss, making Spike and Diamond Tiara flinch.

"Uh! S-Sorry!" said Thorax, "Kindness like that kind of brings it out."

"Is there anything you need to get off your chest?" Diamond Tiara asked gently.

"Just that I've always been bullied for not being...evil...like everypony else," Thorax replied, "And all I've ever wanted was a friend, but it seems like I never will. And it really hurts...alot. And I did admit I was part of the invasion during the royal wedding. And I regret it. Do you two still wanna be my friend?"

"Of course," said Spike.

"We all have our own issues that we struggle with, Thorax," said Diamond Tiara, "that doesn't mean you don't deserve to have friends. You're not the only pony who regrets their past, but the best you can do is try to be better. And we can help you."

"Exactly," said Spike, "And I am one hundred percent sure I can get the whole Crystal Empire to be your friend too." Thorax hissed again, but quickly covered his mouth with his fore-hooves.

"But maybe I should just, uh, talk to them first," said Spike.

"Yeah, you might give the wrong impression if you can't keep your hissing under control," said Diamond Tiara. Thorax just gave a muffled grunt in reply and looked rather sad.

"Maybe this will help," said Diamond Tiara as she bravely walked up to the changeling and gave him a hug, Thorax hissed at first, but then he could feel his hunger starting to subside quite a bit. It wasn't because he was feeding off her love. He didn't need to. Diamond Tiara was sharing her love with him. Thorax was touched and wrapped his fore-legs around her to return the hug. Then a few seconds later, they pulled away.

"Feeling better?" Diamond Tiara asked sweetly.

"Yes, very much, thank you," said Thorax.

"Now leave it to me," said Spike confidently, "I get everypony to change their minds about you."

"I'll speak to Prince Mario and Princess Twilight personally," Diamond Tiara whispered to Thorax. Thorax smiled, but deep down, he was rather worried.

Later at the castle, Diamond Tiara, her winter gear removed, was with Cadance, Twilight, Starlight, Mario, Sunburst, and Flurry Heart in the one of the private rooms.

"So...how did the search go?" Starlight asked.

"It's a work in progress," said Diamond Tiara half-truthfully. Mario then looked at her discreetly with a raised eyebrow.

"Don't worry about it too much, Di," said Twilight as she played with Flurry Heart, "I'm sure you and Spike will be able to capture that changeling in no time at all!"

"Right...capture..." said Diamond Tiara wearily.

"Is something wrong, Di?" Cadance asked curiously. Diamond Tiara was silent for a moment but then took a slow deep breath.

"Master, while I was with Spike," Diamond Tiara said slowly, "I began to think about something."

"What sort of something?" Sunburst asked curiously.

"I mean," said Diamond Tiara, "Has it been proven that all changelings are evil?" The others started, even Flurry Heart, except Cadance who stepped forward sternly.

"Of course they're all evil!" said Cadance sternly, "I'm sure Mario told you what they did to me during the royal wedding. And what they tried to do to Mario!"

"Correction, Cadance," said Diamond Tiara, keeping her composure, "Queen Chrysalis herself was the one who imprisoned you, Twilight, and Mario. She was the one who posed as you during the wedding and fooled everypony except for Twilight and Mario. Yet because of her actions, you are saying that all changelings are considered evil!"

"Well, the other changelings weren't exactly just following her orders you know," said Twilight sternly, "They were pretty resilient in taking Mario, myself, and the rest of my friends down!"

"That is true," said Mario in agreement.

"Okay, okay, no need to get so defensive," said Diamond Tiara, "I'm just trying to speak my mind about the matter." Twilight and Cadance glared.

"Fair enough," said Starlight calmly as Flurry Heart went to snuggle the top of Mario's mane, "but where exactly are you going with this?" Diamond Tiara sighed, realizing she was stalling, and found her words once again.

"Have any of you considered that maybe..." Diamond Tiara said slowly, "Maybe...just because Queen Chrysalis is evil doesn't mean that all the other changelings are evil? That would be like saying that all fillies who grow up in rich households are spoiled brats. That's just stereotyping!"

"It's not stereotyping if it's true," said Cadance bitterly.

"But all I have for proof is your experience with them," said Diamond Tiara, "I mean...what if there were changelings in her swarm who only obey her because they don't know any better? What if they feel like it's the only way they'll survive? Can you really fault them for doing something simply because they are too ignorant to consider a better way?"

"From the way you're talking," said Twilight sternly, "It sounds like you're actually trying to defend the changelings for the horrible things they've done!"

"I'm not defending them, Twilight," Diamond Tiara retorted firmly, "What I'm saying is that what if there are changelings who only do those things because they're afraid?"

"Afraid of what?!" said Sunburst indignantly, "sucking the love out of innocent ponies?"

"No, afraid of being an outcast!" Diamond Tiara yelled, "I mean, if every changeling around you is feeding off of other ponies' love. Yet there is one changeling who doesn't want to have to feed off love, but share it. Do you think it's gonna be easy for that one changeling step out of the status quo? I wouldn't be surprised if there were changelings in Chrysalis' army who wish they had the courage to go AWOL, but are afraid to do so out of fear for their lives or even finding a way to live their life differently!"

"Di, you can't compare what the changelings do to peer pressure," said Starlight, "it's not the same thing!"

"Well, I don't agree," said Diamond Tiara sternly, "Ponies once thought that you and I were evil. Yet when we wanted a chance to change, we were given a second chance. Why can't we give that same offer of love and friendship to a changeling?"

"Offer love and friendship to a changeling?" Twilight said in shock.

"Absolutely not!" Cadance said sternly.

"Even if they came up to you, surrendered, and said that they want a life better than just being a love-draining minion?" Diamond Tiara asked in a firm tone, and standing her ground against the pink alicorn princess. Cadance sighed.

"Di, even if that did happen," said Cadance gently but then added firmly, "They can't be trusted. They are the masters of deception. When Chrysalis was impersonating me, she fooled everypony except for Twilight and Mario. And before you say it was just her, there was another changeling that disguised himself as Mario. You couldn't tell the real from the fake when they were both in the same room! It would be far too difficult to know if the changeling was being sincere or just trying to deceive us in order to get to Flurry Heart!" Diamond Tiara sighed, she had to admit that she did feel the same way about Thorax.

Could he really be trusted? Diamond Tiara thought. She then remembered the hug she had given him when he was having trouble controlling his hunger. She had pretty much put herself in harm's way. Thorax could have more than easily drained the love from her. She could tell he wanted to.

Yet...he didn't. He hugged her back. Thanking her for being his friend.

"You're right," said Diamond Tiara in a calm but firm, "Changelings are hard to trust, but I believe that there are a small few that you can."

"And what proof brought you to this conclusion?" Twilight asked skeptically. Diamond Tiara snorted. She was getting tired of the others being so defensive, but took a deep breath to keep calm.

"Allow me to prove that the changeling you're looking for isn't a threat," said Diamond Tiara, "I have a feeling there's good in him and he deserves a second chance." The others were rather stunned at the request. Mario, who had remained silent during the entire conversation, just continued to ponder and listen attentively. Cadance finally stepped forward.

"Di, as admirable as your request is," said Cadance, "I going to have to deny it."

"But Cadance!" Diamond Tiara protested.

"You and Spike were asked to find the changeling and bring him here," said Cadance sternly, "Shining Armor and I are the ones will ultimately cast judgment. Is that understood, young lady?" Diamond Tiara glared back for a moment before sighing in defeat.

"Yes, Cadance," said Diamond Tiara reluctantly and then added angrily, "But I still don't agree with you!" Diamond Tiara then stomped away and slammed the door, making everypony but Cadance and Mario flinch.

"Well, that was huffy," said Starlight.

"She stills needs to get it out of her head that she can't always get what she wants," Twilight added. Then she, Starlight, and Cadance giggled.

"I don't see what so funny about this," said Mario, speaking up at last with a stern look on his face.

"Honey, get serious," said Twilight, "Changelings being misguided? Being peer pressured into doing Chrysalis's bidding? Having good in them? Puh-lease!"

"That is a very cynical point of view, Twilight Sparkle," said Mario, "As Prince and Princess of Friendship, we are tasked to spread friendship across Equestria. We've reached out to yaks and griffins. Why not changelings?" Twilight, Starlight, Cadance, and Sunburst blinked in shock.

"Are...are you seriously agreeing with Diamond Tiara?" Sunburst spluttered.

"I'm saying that you shouldn't let your hurt feelings determine how you judge an entire species of creatures," said Mario sternly, "What if a changeling really does want to turn their life around embrace the magic of friendship? Should they be barred from that chance because of one mistake?"

"Mario, you can't trust a changeling!" said Cadance sternly, "They could easily deceive you into thinking they are friendly just to let your guard down!"

"Only in physical appearance," said Mario, "They aren't every good at replicating that pony's behavior. The way they talk and carry themselves is a dead giveaway. Whenever they act maliciously, their eye even glow green and their bodies flicker green when startled."

"Your point?" Cadance asked impatiently.

"I may not be a parent," said Mario, "You should be protective of Flurry Heart, but don't let that fear and resentment cloud your judgment. Based on the reports, the changeling's only crime is being spotted. It hasn't hurt anypony yet and here you are ready to banish him to Tartarus without giving him or her a fair trial!"

"Mario-"

"I had that same attitude when Starlight first moved into the castle," Mario interrupted Cadance firmly, "and look at everypony I hurt because I acted out over what she did to me and refused to give her a chance! This situation isn't any different. You need to let what happened in the past be in the past. You are the one that taught me that it is important to forgive those who hurt you, even if they never apologize back. You also taught me that there's good in every creature, not matter what horrible deeds they might have done. Now practice what you teach, Cadance!" Nopony other than Sunburst took notice that Starlight suddenly looked very uncomfortable. Cadance just glared as Mario stomped out of the throne room. Twilight just sighed as Flurry Heart just seemed to watch everything with a curious look on her face.

Elsewhere in the castle, Spike had caught up the guards he had sent to search the area. Spike wasn't at all surprised that their searches had come up empty. Spike, for the time being, had said he hadn't captured the changeling either.

"What do you mean?" said the first guard, "Did you see the changeling?"

"Did you defeat the evil creature?" the second guard asked.

"Defeating a changeling would be brave," said Spike, "but do you know what would be glorious?"

"Defeating two changelings?" the royal guard guessed.

"Defeating all the changelings?" the second guard guessed.

"Not having to fight the changeling at all!" said Spike, "Because I made friends with him." Spike gave them both a huge smile. The guards stared and then burst out laughing.

"Oh, wow!" said the first guard, "For a second, I thought you were serious!"

"Could you imagine?" the second guard added as he kept laughing, "Friends with a changeling?"

"I am serious," said Spike firmly, "He wants to be friends!" The two guards stood on opposite side of the little dragon and laughed again.

"Right!" said the second guard as he put a fore-hoof on Spike's head.

"Not only are you Spike the Brave and Glorious," said the first guard as he lay on the floor laughing, "you're also Spike the Hilarious!" The second guard laughed in agreement. Spike was feeling most annoyed.

"I'm not joking!" Spike protested, "The changeling is nice! Even Diamond Tiara would agree since she met him too!" The two guards just laughed even harder.

"I'm sorry, but I don't think it's funny," said Shining Armor sternly, making the guards stop laughing and side step away, leaving Spike alone, "The Changeling Queen Chrysalis kidnapped Cadance and cast a spell on me." He then got sternly into Spike's face.

"There's no such thing as a nice changeling," He added firmly.

"You're right, Shining Armor," said Spike sheepishly, "Sorry. That was a...bad joke."

"It's not a bad joke," said Diamond Tiara as she walked up to them, "There's good in every-"

"This discussion is closed, young lady," said Shining Armor in a stern tone, now sticking his face into the filly's, "I think I know what I'm talking about since I was there when the changelings invaded Canterlot!" He then walked away as Diamond Tiara watched him for a few seconds.

"You assume too much," said Diamond Tiara bitterly once she felt the stallion was out of hearing range.

"I take it things didn't go so well on your end," said Spike as he walked up to the tiara wearing filly. Diamond Tiara slumped over in defeat.

"No," said Diamond Tiara, "And I'm guessing you got nowhere with anypony?"

"Nah," said Spike sadly.

"What are we gonna do?" Diamond Tiara asked worried, "We told Thorax we'd help him make new friends. And now we've gotta tell him nopony wants to?"

"I don't want to break it to him either," said Spike, "But considering we're still supposed to be "searching" for the changeling. We might as well go find him again."

"And then what?" said Diamond Tiara.

"I haven't thought that far yet," said Spike. Diamond Tiara opened her mouth to retort, but then quickly closed it and sighed.

"Let's just go find Thorax and tell him the news," said Diamond Tiara sadly, "Guess we can figure out our next move from there." She and Spike headed on their way. Neither of them knew that Mario had peeked inside of the room. He was just listening in quietly before he walked away without following either of them.

Once Diamond Tiara had put her coat and earmuffs back on, she and Spike headed back to the location where they had found Thorax. Thorax was there waiting for them.

"So? So? Uh, what did they say?" Thorax asked excitedly, not noticing the glum looks on Spike and Diamond Tiara's faces, "How many new friends do I have?"

"Well, it didn't go exactly the way I thought," said Spike honestly.

"Yeah, our efforts to convince ponies that changelings could have good in them sort of...fell on deaf ears," said Diamond Tiara sheepishly. Thorax looked disappointed.

"I understand," Thorax groaned, "Well, thanks for trying. I-I guess it's not surprising. How can you expect ponies who looks like this..." He then changed into a light blue crystal pony, "...to trust something that looks like this?" He then changed back to his true appearance.

"It's sad that we still live in a world where ponies still judge a creature by its cover," said Diamond Tiara, "I'm just as guilty about it, but I'd like to say I'm learning not to do that anymore. While your appearance might be...intimidating, you're quite handsome."

"Really?" Thorax asked with light pink cheeks.

"Of course," said Diamond Tiara, "and you're very sweet. We just need to show ponies this side of you so they'll focus more on what's inside instead of just what they see on the outside."

"And how are we gonna do that?" Thorax asked. It was then Spike smiled.

"I think I might know!" said Spike. Thorax and Diamond Tiara gave him a curious look.

It wasn't long before the three friends were back at the palace. Two guards walked past a set of double doors, before Spike and Diamond Tiara peeked out of the doors to see if the coast was clear. Then the doors opened to reveal that Thorax was now disguised as a light blue crystal pony as they walked out of the room.

"This isn't gonna work," Diamond Tiara warned.

"Why didn't you say so before?" Spike asked annoyingly.

"I did say so before, genius!" Diamond Tiara shot back.

"There you are," said Mario as he and Twilight approached them. The three friends winced.

"Spike, Di," said Twilight, "if you're both done searching for the changeling, Starlight, Mario and I could use your help. We're working on a protection spell for Flurry Heart, and nopony takes notes like you two!"

"Is it barrier protection or...zap protection?" Diamond Tiara asked.

"Well..." Mario said plainly.

Flashback

Flurry Heart was cooing from her seat as Mario approached.

"It's play time little..."

BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZT! THUD!

(Lose a life fanfare)

Mario went to grab Flurry Heart and was given the jolt of a lifetime before his fur was fried and he passed out onto his back. Flurry Heart didn't like seeing her uncle passed out and started crying.

End Flashback

"Definitely barrier protection," said Mario as Twilight just smiled sheepishly, "So can you two help us out?"

"Uh, actually, Twilight, Mario," said Spike, "we, uh, wanted to introduce you to my friend, uh...uh, Crystal, uh...Hoof! Crystal Hoof!" Spike looked around at the wall of the castle hallway and then a vase behind Twilight and Mario before he chuckled nervously, "My good friend, Crystal Hoof!" Diamond Tiara and Thorax, or Crystal Hoof in this case, just smiled sheepishly as the latter nervously hid behind the two ponies. Twilight looked puzzled while Mario just raised a skeptical eyebrow at them.

"Nice to meet you," said Thorax timidly as he raised a hoof to shake.

"Oh. Well, uh, nice to meet you, too," said Twilight as she returned to hoofshake.

"A pleasure," said Mario simply as he exchanged a hoofshake with Thorax.

"How do you know Spike?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, uh, Spike and I go way back," said Thorax.

"To the Equestria Games!" Spike added quickly and also sweating, "That's when we met. We've been pen pals ever since!"

"And I'm guessing you were introducing him to Di, Spike," said Mario with a blunt look on his face.

"Oh, uh, y-yeah," said Diamond Tiara with a chuckle, "I do like to make new friends. Plus he is cute." Thorax blushed slightly. Twilight giggled as Mario just rolled his eyes.

"Wait, did you say pen pals?" said Twilight as she leaned into Spike's face, "Spike! You could have been using my pen pal quill set! Why didn't you tell me?"

"Well, I...I pretty much only write to him when you and Starlight are studying," said Spike.

"Are you gonna start writing to him, Di?" Twilight asked excitedly, "I could get your very own pen pal quill set! It would be so cute! Pen pal love letters!" Twilight giggled excitedly. Diamond Tiara chuckled nervously.

"Eh-heh...heh...m-m-maybe..." Diamond Tiara squeaked and her cheeks suddenly turning pink. While the blush was from embarrassment, Twilight took her blushing differently.

"Sounds like somepony's got a crush!" Twilight teased in a sing-sang tone.

"Twilight!" Diamond Tiara groaned aloud, looking away as her blush darkened.

"I like to brag to all my friends about my letters from Spike the Brave and Glorious," said Thorax, trying to change to subject for Diamond Tiara's sake.

"Yeah," said Spike with a nervous chuckle. He and Thorax both chuckled nervously as Diamond just gave a nervous smile.

"As you can see," said Diamond Tiara, "I'm the sensible one of the group." Thorax just looked at the tiara-wearing filly while Spike shot her a glare.

"Well, I'm sure Starlight and I can manage, if you two want to spend time with your friend," said Twilight, "Right, honey?" Mario just looked at the three friends skeptically with a raised eyebrow. Spike, Thorax, and Diamond Tiara's just smiled nervously as sweat dripped from their foreheads. Mario stared for a moment and then smiled.

"Sure, honey," said Mario with a smirk, "No problem at all." The three friends gave a inward sigh of relief.

"Great!" said Spike, "Crystal Hoof promised to take us around the city," said Spike.

"Crystal Hoof offered to be a personal escort," Diamond Tiara added, "He's such a gentlecolt." Thorax blushed. Twilight giggled as she walked away. Mario decided to approach the group.

"If your "changeling" friend wants to blend in with everypony, he's gotta relax," said Mario, "Being nervous and flustered is only gonna make him lose their disguise."

"Right, ma-" said Diamond Tiara but then she, Thorax, and Spike all froze and their eyes popped out.

"WHAT?!" Diamond Tiara, Thorax, and Spike exclaimed at once.

"W-w-w-what, where, when, why...how?!" Spike spluttered.

"Have fun in the city you three," said Mario with a low chuckle as he walked away. Spike and Diamond Tiara just shared looks with each other.

"Did Mario just..." said Thorax before he realized the alicorn prince knew who he really was and didn't expose him, "Oh, that was amazing!"

"Yeah, I guess master is on our side," said Diamond Tiara.

"I told ya," said Spike smugly.

"You didn't know Mario knew about Thorax," Diamond Tiara retorted.

"Can I just have my moment please?" Spike asked irritably.

"What moment?" Diamond Tiara asked, "You making a fool out of yourself? I think you already did that."

"Grrr!" Spike growled as Thorax just chuckled to himself. He was then startled when Diamond Tiara wrapped a fore-hoof around one of his fore-legs.

"I did mean it when I said I like you," said Diamond Tiara but then shot a death glare at Spike, "But that doesn't mean I have a crush on him!" She then looked at Thorax sheepishly, "No offense."

"None taken," said Thorax, "I'd rather have friends for now. Besides Di, I think I'm too old for you anyway."

"Didn't stop her from gushing over Mario," Spike remarked.

"Doesn't stop you from wooing Rarity!" Diamond Tiara shot back, making Spike wince.

"Touche," Spike remarked bluntly as they headed out of the castle.

Outside of the castle, Thorax immediately started surveying the city in amazement as some montage music began to play in the background. Then two mares came up to the group to chat. Spike and Diamond Tiara started the conversation as Thorax just smiled shyly. Later on a crowd of ponies gathered around Spike and Diamond Tiara. Thorax helped to pass out signed autographs for Spike as he continued. While Diamond Tiara looked annoyed at first, a few crystal ponies seemed to take interest in her tiara and she was able to enjoy some conversation with the crystal ponies as well, especially when a few found out she was Mario's student...and they loved her gem studded apprentice braid. Thorax found opening up rather easy and was making conversation with the other crystal ponies without much difficulty. They even shared a good laugh together. Spike and Diamond Tiara smiled as they exchanged a fist/hoof bump with each other. Their plan seemed to be going very well.

Soon the three friends returned to the castle, the two castle guards escorted Spike, Diamond Tiara, and the still disguised Thorax to the throne room.

"Crystal Hoof is nearly as entertaining as Spike himself," the first guard whispered to the second guard.

"This place is everything I've ever dreamed of!" Thorax gasped and then said to his two pony in a hushed tone, "But I can't keep pretending to be a Crystal Pony forever, can I?"

"Relax," said Spike in a calm tone, "You're winning them over. Pretty soon, nopony will care that you're a changeling."

"I hate to admit it, but he's right," said Diamond Tiara, "We want ponies to see who you are on the inside before we reveal what's on the outside. After all, they'll be less defensive when they see just how sweet and charming you really are. In the end, the only deception is just your outer appearance. Who you are on the inside is what matters the most when it comes to friendship. What's inside is what defines the true you."

"You are quite wise for a little filly," said Thorax. Diamond Tiara blushed at the complement.

"Eh, not really," said Spike. Diamond Tiara growled at Spike annoyingly. Thorax just chuckled as they finally entered the throne room where everypony else was waiting for them.

"Spike! Diamond Tiara!" Cadance called out, startling the three friends rushed up to her, "Twilight told me you two were off with a friend." Spike and Diamond Tiara chuckled nervously.

"Y-yeah, w-w-we were, Cadance," said Diamond Tiara timidly.

"Twilight also told me you've got a little crush on him," Cadance teased.

"I do not!" Diamond Tiara retorted angrily and looked away with blushed cheeks. Cadance giggled.

"Well, either way," said Cadance, "Any friend of Diamond Tiara and Spike the Brave and Glorious is a friend of mine." Diamond Tiara couldn't help but clap her fore-hooves happily. It was then Thorax approached Flurry Heart. The baby cooed at him cutely.

"Oh, she's so beautiful," said Thorax. Suddenly, Thorax started feeling uncomfortable.

"Crystal Hoof, what's wrong?" Diamond Tiara asked as she walked up to him.

"There's so much l-love around her...! I...I...!" Thorax stuttered. Before Diamond Tiara could help him relax, Thorax dropped his disguise and hissed menacingly.

"Oh no..." Diamond Tiara groaned. Cadance was the first to gasp. Twilight and Starlight gasped right after. Mario just face-hoofed himself.

"I...I'm so...sorry!" Thorax apologized and speaking between hisses, "I can't...Can't...stop!" Spike and Diamond Tiara just winced at the hissing.

"Spike! Di! Get away from the changeling!" Twilight called out.

"Wait, no!" Spike protested, "You don't understand!" But it was too late. Twilight had already encased the little dragon in her magic grip and pulled him away, setting him between Cadance and Sunburst. Mario used his magic to do the same to bring Diamond Tiara beside him.

"No! Please! It's not his fault!" Diamond Tiara protested as Mario held up his fore-leg to keep her away from Thorax, "Master! Please listen to me!"

"I believe you, Di," said Mario in a hushed tone, "But it appears your friend is having self-control issues and I need to keep you safe!" Diamond Tiara just watched Thorax with a worried look on her face.

"This changeling replaced your friend to get close to the baby!" said Sunburst.

"That's not true!" said Diamond Tiara, "The changeling is our friend! He was hoping you'd be his friend too!"

"You call that being friendly!" Twilight retorted.

"He used you to get to the baby!" Sunburst added sternly, "What other explanation could there be?"

"I..." Spike retorted.

"That's not true," said Diamond Tiara, "He's our friend! Tell them, Spike!" Thorax just kept hissing as Spike looked rather nervous.

"Spike, tell them!" Diamond Tiara cried out in desperation. Spike then slumped forward.

"...I don't know," Spike said. Diamond Tiara looked devastated. Poor Thorax whimpered, started to cry, and flew off.

"After it!" the first guard called out and chased after Thorax, "Don't let the changeling escape!" Twilight and Starlight continued to glare as Thorax and the guard disappeared. Spike just stepped forward, realizing his mistake.

"I hope your friend is okay," said Cadance gently.

"Yeah...Me, too," said Spike as a few tears left his eyes.

"Why would he be?" Diamond Tiara croaked as she began to cry, "You left him at the mercy of the changeling!"

"Di, please..." said Twilight, trying to damage control.

"You couldn't tell the difference between a friend and a foe even if they slapped you across the face!" Diamond yelled at Spike, interrupting Twilight. Then she ran off, sobbing as she left the throne room. Spike just felt his tears fall faster and said nothing. Mario just sighed sadly to himself. Secretly, he had been rooting for his student to show the other that Thorax was good and felt bad that things hadn't work out.

It was a few minutes later, Spike walked out of the palace to clear his mind. He hadn't bothered to find Diamond Tiara, who he knew was furious with him. He had barely walked outside when he saw the guards pacing quickly about.

"Spike, you should go find Crystal Hoof while we hunt down the changeling," said the first guard, "and you might want to take Miss Tiara to the medical center."

"Medical center?!" Spike spluttered.

"Yes, the changeling must have done something to her to make her think that they were friends," said the first royal guard, "She might need some urgent care!"

"If I go see her, she'll send me to urgent care!" Spike muttered.

"Huh?" the first royal guard asked cluelessly.

"Nevermind, sure thing," said Spike quickly before saying sadly, "But as for Crystal Hoof, I'm pretty sure he doesn't want to see me."

"Spread out!" said Shining Armor to the rest of the guards, startling Spike, "The changeling is probably still nearby!" The royal guard immediately followed his orders and spread out. Spike just watched quietly.

"Actually, I'm pretty sure he ran as far away from here as possible..." said Spike and then realized something, "But I bet I know where! And I'm gonna need some help." Spike then sighed, plucked up some courage and headed back into the castle.

"I sure hope the medical center treats dragons," said Spike wearily to himself as he started his search. It wasn't long before he passed a particular door and heard the sound of somepony crying inside. He wasted no time opening the door and allowing himself in. There in the dark with only a small amount of sunlight shining through the nearby balcony was Diamond Tiara. She was too busy sobbing with her face buried into the crystal floor to notice Spike had entered.

"Di?" Spike said in a voice loud enough to make her stop crying. Diamond shot up and turned around to see the little dragon. She glared at him.

"What do you want?" Diamond Tiara asked bitterly.

"I know I messed up pretty badly back there," said Spike in a gentle but sad tone, "When push came to shove..."

"You choked," said Diamond Tiara, "I get it. As much I want to be so angry with you right now...I get it."

"You do?" Spike asked, rather surprised at the filly's understanding.

"How do think I felt dealing with my mother?" said Diamond Tiara, "You know what you want to do. You know what you have to say. But when the moment finally comes..."

"You get shut down," Spike replied.

"Exactly," said Diamond Tiara sadly as she turned around to face him, "And this time Thorax was the one to get hurt because of it... He needed us...and we both let him down."

"Glad to see I'm not the only one..."

"But you still hurt him far more than me!" Diamond Tiara snapped.

"Way to rub it in," Spike remarked.

"Well...I was having trouble standing up for him!" Diamond Tiara yelled, "I needed your help, Spike! I wasn't strong enough to defend him alone! I wasn't...strong enough..." Diamond Tiara's voice cracked and began to cry once again. Spike didn't waste any time pulling the filly in for a hug.

"I'm sorry I let you down," said Spike. Diamond Tiara roughly pulled away.

"I'm not the one you owe an apology too," said Diamond Tiara sternly.

"I know," said Spike, "I think I might know where he might be hiding, but I need your help!" Diamond Tiara glared but then softened.

"Let's go," said Diamond Tiara as Spike smiled.

Soon, Diamond Tiara had put her winter gear back on, and the two friends made their way back to the same location where they had found Thorax. Unfortunately, the changeling was nowhere to be found.

"Thorax! Hello?" Spike called out.

"Thorax, please come out!" Diamond Tiara called out.

"I just wanted to apologize," Spike continued, "I should have stood up for you..." He then lifted a rock to look under it and set the rock back down.

"Thorax, please stop hiding," Diamond Tiara pleaded.

"Aw, come on Thorax!" said Spike as he and Diamond Tiara walked away from the rock, "I know you're in here!" Before they realized it, the rock behind them changed into the said changeling...and he was not happy.

"Leave me alone!" Thorax hissed angrily, making Spike and Diamond Tiara back away.

"Please Thorax, we didn't mean to...to...EEEEK!" Diamond Tiara hadn't been watching where she was going and ended up backing right into the ravine.

"YAH!" Spike yelped, making the same mistake. Spike grabbed the edge of the cliff just in time.

"YAH-HA-OW!" Spike yelped as Diamond Tiara grabbed his tail...with her teeth.

"Sorry!" Diamond Tiara said, her voice muffled as she bit hard to hold on for dear life. Thorax glared as he watched the two friends hanging over the edge.

"Little help?" Spike asked as Diamond Tiara pleaded to the changeling with her eyes.

"Why do you think I would help you?" Thorax snapped, "I'm an "evil changeling"!"

"Because you're my friend," said Spike, "I just wish I had been one to you."

"Me too!" said Diamond Tiara in a muffled voice, "Please help us, Thorax!" It was then Spike lost his grip.

"YAAAAAAAAH!"

"EEEEEEEEEEEEEK!"

Spike and Diamond Tiara both screamed...for about two seconds before Thorax grabbed Spike and Diamond Tiara and brought them both to safety. Diamond Tiara quickly spat definitely to get the taste of dragon off her teeth and then hugged Thorax.

"Oh thank you, Thorax," said Diamond Tiara and then pulled away, "We are so sorry...for everything!"

"Yeah, same here," said Spike sadly.

"It's okay," said Thorax, "I know it's hard. Everyone on the Crystal Empire loves Spike. Di, you told me you're the student of the Prince of Friendship and look up to the Princess of Friendship like a Mom. I couldn't ask either of you to give that up for me." Thorax lowered his head sadly as Diamond Tiara and Spike shared determined looks and nods with each other.

"You don't have to ask," said Spike firmly.

"Yeah, you don't," said Diamond Tiara in the same tone as the two friends walked away.

"What are you gonna do?" Thorax asked with concern.

"What I should've done in the first place," said Spike.

"Because friendship is always worth fighting for," Diamond Tiara added as she attached a pink heart gem to the side of her mane opposite of her braid, "now come on!"

"What's that?" Spike asked.

"Master crafted it for me," said Diamond Tiara, "It give me the magic to summon turn battles. Hope you're still fresh on the tactics of "Ponymon" training." Spike just smirked in reply as Thorax had a confused look on his face.

Back at the palace, the guards were running amok trying to find Thorax.

"Let's move! Move! Move!" the guards shouted to each other as they continued their search, checking literally every nook and cranny about the castle, "This way! This way! Let's go! Check there? Okay, over here! Over here!" Starlight watched the ruckus from inside the throne room.

"I know it's because there's a changeling around," said Starlight, "but is all this really necessary?"

"If there's one changeling, there may well be a whole army on the way," said Cadance.

"True," said Twilight as she stood beside the lilac unicorn, "But Starlight has a point. This is getting a little out of hand."

"I understand, but I don't know what else we can do," Cadance sighed.

Meanwhile, despite all their efforts, Spike, Diamond Tiara, and Thorax found it very easy to just walk inside and enter the castle. They were already heading down the hallway that led to the throne room when some royals guards finally spotted them.

"Hey, get away from the changeling!" said a royal guard as the others glared at them.

"Make us!" Diamond Tiara challenged.

"Very well," said the guard. Diamond Tiara then tapped her hair gem and made it glow.

(Cue favorite "Pokemon trainer" battle theme)

Some white tiaras streamed across the screen, followed by a liner zoetrope background as the elite royal guard slid across the background from the right while Spike appeared sliding across the foreground from the right facing the elite royal guard.

Spike was challenged by an elite royal guard.

Royal elite guard sent out a standard trooper. (Normal type) The trooper growled at Spike.

Spike sent out Diamond Tiara. He lay on his back with his feet in the air and Diamond Tiara landed on his two feet with her four hooves.

"Let's do this!" said Diamond Tiara as she super jumped into battle.

"You think a little filly like you could beat an adult stallion?" the elite royal guard taunted. Diamond Tiara smirked.

"I'll give it my best shot!" said Diamond Tiara.

"Di, use Double Kick!" Spike called out. Diamond Tiara turned around and with a powerful kick.

POW!

Then delivered a second one.

POW!

It was super effective! The standard trooper passed out. Spike was shocked.

"Wow!" said Spike, "Those applebucking lessons really paid off!"

"I love you Applejack!" said Diamond Tiara, feeling rather giddy she defeated the guard in one turn.

"It's not over yet!" said the royal elite guard as he called out another standard trooper, The difference was that this trooper had some extra armor on to make it a steel type. Or crystal to be more precise, but still a considered a steel type despite its crystal like appearance.

"This is just too easy," said Spike to himself, "Di, use Slizzly Slide!" The royal elite guard and the trooper laughed.

"You're an Earth Pony!" said the elite royal guard, "Fire types are usually unicorns! There's no way you can...uhhhhhhhhhhhhh..." The elite guard and royal guard were dumbfounded to find the little filly began to make her body erupt into flames. Diamond Tiara then lunged at high speed into the elite guard.

"GAH!" Diamond Tiara cried out.

POW!

It was super effective! The trooper couldn't take the heavy damage and fainted.

"Alright!" said Spike, "Nice work!"

"Thanks, Spike," said Diamond Tiara. The elite royal guard then sent out three more troopers. The third was an electric type, the fourth was grass type, and the fifth was a magic type. The third guard went down after Diamond Tiara used Dig to burrow underground and sent a large crag of earth at it from below. The fourth guard, Diamond Tiara took two turns using Sizzly Slide to defeat it since it had a stronger defense against her. The fifth guard she only had to use a single Double Kick to defeat it. The elite guard was most annoyed.

"Now I see your skill," said the elite royal guard, "Let's see how you can handle this!" He then sent out a sixth and final trooper. But Diamond Tiara whimpered. This particular trooper...was a ground type!

"Uh-oh..." said Diamond Tiara nervously. As much as she trained in the arts of Ponymon, she was always a little nervous whenever she had to face an opponent that she had an disadvantage too. Normally a Ground type isn't effective against another ground type, but it was because Diamond Tiara was also a Fire-type why her own typing was also her weakness. As much as she worked on building up her defense and special defense, super effective attacks against her usually did a heavy amount of damage. She tended to lost battles when her opponent had the advantage against her.

"Can't handle another battle, little girl?" the trooper taunted. Diamond Tiara trembled nervously.

"Di, you can do this!" Spike called out, "remember that this is for Thorax!" Diamond Tiara looked back to see Thorax looking very nervous and worried. She narrowed her eyes in determination.

"Right, for Thorax," said Diamond Tiara.

"Use...actually on second thought," said Spike but then stopped himself.

"On second thought?!" Diamond Tiara retorted in shock.

"Trooper, use Dig!" said the royal elite guard.

"No!" Diamond Tiara called out as a trooper dug underground.

"Now what can we do?" Thorax asked, "You can't attack a pony while their underground."

"Well, there are certain attacks that can," said Diamond Tiara, "If Spike is smart enough to have me use Dig as well." But Spike just looked rather calm.

"I'll pass my turn," said Spike.

"WHAT?!" Diamond Tiara remarked. the underground guard then burrow underground and had a giant crag of earth smack Diamond Tiara hard.

POW!

It was Super Effective!

Diamond Tiara took heavy damage from the attack, but was still standing.

"Di!" Thorax cried out since he could tell Diamond Tiara was hurting, "Are you okay?" Diamond Tiara groaned.

"I'll be okay," Diamond Tiara replied in a strained tone, "Spike, why'd you call off my attack? The guard got to attack me with Dig! I could've burrowed underground to dodge it!"

"Actually, you'd still be hit even if you had burrowed underground," said Spike, "I stopped saying my attack because I didn't know you had learned a water attack." Diamond Tiara blinked and then smirked.

"It's a good one, a technical move to be exact," said Diamond Tiara, "Should we give it a try?" Spike smirked since he knew that it would be effective against the trooper.

"Di, use Water Buck!" said Spike. Diamond Tiara closed her eyes and then made water coat her entire body.

"You got it!" Diamond Tiara yelled as her body got coated in water, "How do you like this!" Diamond Tiara then turned around and gave the guard a firm buck in the face!

POW!

It was super effective! And a critical hit for even more damage!

The sixth soldier fainted.

The elite royal guard was defeated.

(Cue "Battle victory" theme)

"Our troops got bested by a filly?!" The royal elite guard exclaimed in shock.

A bright light appeared, showing the elite royal guard looking very dizzy as the group made their way past him.

"Halt, who goes there!" said another elite royal guard. Spike and Diamond Tiara, with Thorax behind them, shared smirks with each other.

"You up for another Ponymon battle?" Spike asked. Diamond Tiara quickly ate a mushroom to restore some lost health and nodded.

"Bring it on!" said Diamond Tiara with determination.

Meanwhile, back inside the palace, the group was just sharing worried looks with each other. They could hear the ruckus outside.

"As I said before," said Cadance worriedly, "I'm not sure what else we can do."

"We do!" said two familiar voices. Spike, Diamond Tiara, and Thorax entered the throne room. Everypony gasped.

"Spike! Diamond Tiara!" Shining Armor said angrily as he and several guards rushed up to them, "What are you doing?! Get away from that thing!"

"No!" said Diamond Tiara as she wrapped her fore-hooves around Thorax's left fore-leg, "I didn't just fight eighteen of your guards in Ponymon battles and nearly get knocked out just to protect him!" Shining Armor and the others were shocked. It was then they noticed the filly's condition. Her mane and tail looked frazzled as a sign that she had taken quite a bit of damage. And the look on her face showed that, despite the firmness of her tone, she looked tired.

"Clearly, your student isn't well," said Shining Armor, "This thing must have drained her love and brainwashed her somehow." Even Mario just had a skeptical look on his face, he didn't believe Shining Armor one bit that his student was brainwashed.

"That's not true," said Spike firmly, "And he's not a "thing" His name is Thorax and he's our friend!" Diamond Tiara nodded firmly in agreement. The royal guards gasped, followed by Cadance, Sunburst, and then Starlight.

"And in all the time we've spent with him," said Spike, "he's never done a single thing to hurt either of us. Even when he was having his little hissing episode!"

"I even took a great risk," said Diamond Tiara, "and gave him a hug!"

"What?!" Twilight exclaimed in pure shock, even Mario was left stunned.

"Yeah, the perfect opportunity for Thorax to drain me of my love when my guard was down," said Diamond Tiara, "and you know what he did when I hugged him? He hugged me back and said thank you." Everypony except Mario just looked at her in disbelief. Shining Armor snorted.

"Well then please tell me, why should we trust him?" Shining Armor asked sternly. Thorax just looked worried. Diamond Tiara and Spike shared a firm nod with the changeling and stepped forward. Then, out of nowhere, a spotlight appeared above each of them.

[Spike - As Spike sang, he leaned forward sadly.]

Would you say I'm a hero
Glorious and brave
If I told you something you wouldn't believe?

[Diamond Tiara - She put a fore-hoof around Spike's shoulder, making him smile. Then waved her free fore-leg before the others. Cadance, Twilight, and Starlight stared at her while Mario had a poker face.]

Am I truly a friend
Honest and sincere
If I didn't stand up for what I believe?

[Spike - Shining Armor and three guards just stared as Spike as he sang to them. A vision showed everypony turning Thorax away. Thorax was so upset than he ran off as Spike called out to him while slumped on his knees.]

That sometimes I'm scared
And I can make mistakes
And I'm not so heroic, it seems

[Diamond Tiara - Diamond sat alone in a dark room with the spotlight showed the changeling attacking ponies, leaving her feeling bitter. Then Thorax appeared before her, extending a fore-leg to the little filly. Diamond Tiara smiled as she sang and accepted his gesture by placed her fore-hoof against his.]

Nopony is perfect
Past hurts can close your heart
Learning true forgiveness helps you see

[Spike - Four guards glared as day turned into night. Then he walked over to Cadance, Sunburst, Twilight, Starlight, and Mario. Mario had a deadpan look while the others glared.]

But if day can turn to night
And the darkness turn to light

[Spike and Diamond Tiara - Each of them put a claw/hoof under Thorax's chin as they sang.]

Then why can't we imagine a changeling can change?

[Spike - Two ponies who looked exactly the same appeared. Then one copy turned into Thorax and the other pony fled. Thorax was left sad and alone. Then snowflakes floated above the screen. One snowflake landed on his claw as he clutched it in his claw. Then a spotlight appeared over Thorax as he was seen crying. Spike then extended a claw to Thorax, which helped him feel better and smile.]

No two ponies are exactly the same
No two snowflakes even match their design
And I thought I was strong
But I was nothing but wrong
When I forgot to be friendly and kind

[Diamond Tiara - Thorax saw a vision of himself attacking other ponies, followed by seeing ponies fear him once they laid eyes on him. He then sat alone feeling sorry for himself. But then Diamond Tiara appeared, giving him a cute smile and held his fore-hoof as she sang to him.]

We all have our mistakes and deep regrets
You see the damage you caused and can't fix
I once thought this would mean
My true self could not be seen
Despite the doubts, one saw the good in me!

[Spike and Diamond Tiara - They sang as day turned to light with the four guards staring at them. Then they sang to Cadance, Sunburst, Twilight, Starlight, and Mario. Mario had a deadpan look while the others glared. Then they both put a claw/fore-hoof under Thorax's chin.]

But if day can turn to night
And the darkness turn to light
They why can't we imagine a changeling can change?

[Spike - The statue of Spike was seen before he turned into Spike himself making the same pose as he sang. The others kept glaring at him, but now Mario's expression had softened and even Twilight had a sad and concerned look on her face.]

Would you say I'm a hero
Glorious and brave
If I told you something you wouldn't believe?

[Diamond Tiara - Diamond Tiara instinctively walked up to Mario and Starlight, whom the latter was still glaring. As she sang, Mario and Starlight shared rather embarassed and guilty looks with each other.]

Nopony is perfect
Past hurts can close your heart
Learning true forgiveness helps you see

[Spike - Thorax was still looking glum as Spike extended a claw to him, Thorax smiled and stepped forward to accept it.]

This changeling, it seems
Knows the real me
And would stay by my side 'til the end

[Diamond Tiara - She walked up and stood beside Thorax, putting a fore-hoof to her heart. Her voice then got louder as she sang with all her heart.]

He may not be a pony
But he does have heart
He'll be there for you, just let him try

[Spike and Diamond Tiara - They sang as day turned to light with the four guards staring at them. Then they sang to Cadance, Sunburst, Twilight, Starlight, and Mario. But now all but Twilight, Mario, and now Starlight were glaring. In fact, Starlight was looking rather uncomfortable as her eyes darted about and she looked rather sad.]

So if day can turn to night
And the darkness turn to light

[Spike - He sang as tears pricked his eyes.]

Then why can't we imagine

[Diamond Tiara - She sang with tears pricking her own eyes.]

Just why can't we imagine

[Spike and Diamond Tiara]

Then why can't we imagine a changeling can change?

As the two finished their song, Shining Armor, the guards, Sunburst, and Cadance were still glaring at them. Spike gave them all sad looks and Diamond Tiara stood firm despite the tears building up in her eyes. There was long silence as Shining Armor and the guards continued to glare. Then Twilight and Mario sternly approached Spike and Diamond Tiara. Diamond Tiara stepped forward.

"I won't let you hurt him!" the filly said sternly.

"Di, why would you defend a changeling?" Twilight asked as Mario glared at her sternly. Diamond Tiara just glared as she started to cry as Spike stood beside her.

"Because you taught me that there's good in any creature," Diamond Tiara croaked, "and that friendship is always worth fighting for." Spike nodded in agreement as he patted Diamond Tiara's shoulder. Twilight and Mario stared, but then smiled.

"Spike, Di, we're so proud of you," said Twilight.

"You are?" Spike and Diamond Tiara said together in shock.

"Of course," said Twilight as she gave them both hug, "Spike, you're a celebrity here in the Crystal Empire, and you risked all of it for a friend!"

"Di, you're my personal student and you look up to my wife as your Mom," said Mario, "and you were willing to risk that, as well as your own life by fighting Shining Armor's guards, for a friend! That is very impressive!" Twilight and Mario exchanged nods and then turned to face the others.

"As the Prince and Princess of Friendship," Twilight spoke, "we try to set an example for all of Equestria. But today, it was Spike and Diamond Tiara that taught us that a new friend can come from anywhere. I guess everypony still has things to learn about friendship. Even us! And if Spike and Diamond Tiara say Thorax is their friend, then he's our friend too!" Twilight then extended a fore-hoof to Thorax to shake.

"Thank you," said Thorax as he returned the hoof-shake.

"Yes, indeed," said Mario as he gave Thorax a hoof-shake as well, "Diamond Tiara wasn't the only pony who could see that you were not a threat. I'm glad to see that there is good among the changelings."

"Wait a minute!" said Diamond Tiara, "If you knew Thorax was a good guy, why didn't you say anything?" Mario chuckled.

"Because I wanted to see if you were willing to defend him," Mario answered, "Even when everypony else was against him. The fact you even fought and got hurt for him shows that you were willing to fight for your friendships. You and Spike were willing to defend him when it mattered the most, despite some early mistakes. I have never been so proud of the both of you." Diamond Tiara and Spike exchanged smiles with each other. Thorax couldn't help but smile as well.

Then two Flower Sprites appeared. They gently floated down and hovered before Thorax. He chuckled as tears began to stream down his face.

"Their magic feels to warm," he told them, "I've never felt so happy, and sustained, in my life!"

"That's because these Flower Sprites contain pure love," said Mario and then faced the others, "If this changeling was truly evil, such magic would have repelled him immediately because the magic of Flower Sprites cannot be drained or corrupted. The fact the Flower Sprites are embracing Thorax is proof that despite his upbringing, he has a pure heart and deserves friendship just as much as anypony else." The Flower Sprites then hovered over to Spike and Diamond Tiara, who both grinned as they jumped up to collect them.

(Cue "You got a Flower Sprite" fanfare)

A single Flower Sprite floated down to both Spike and Diamond Tiara respectively. Diamond Tiara stood on her hind legs as she and Spike grabbed their Flower Sprite, spun around, and then held them up into the air.

"ALRIGHT!" they cheered together before the Flower Sprites floated over to Mario and entered his body for safekeeping. It was then Cadance and Shining Armor shared some looks with each other, exchanged nods, and approached the changeling.

"Oh behalf of the Crystal Empire," said Cadance, "I would like to extend my hoof in friendship, and I'm sure all of my subjects are eager to do the same." The guards all cheered in agreement. Thorax just gave them a teary smile. Cadance then presented Flurry Heart to Thorax. The changeling looked a little nervous at first, but then Flurry Heart cooed in her cute manner. This made Thorax relax and he found he could handle being near the baby without losing any self-control.

"Welcome to the Crystal Empire, Thorax," said Shining Armor, "I'm sorry we didn't take the time to get to know you. Maybe we can change that now."

"That'd be so amazing!" said Thorax, "I want to know all about friendship, and maybe one day I can take that knowledge back to the Changeling Kingdom! If my kind learned how to create love for one another, maybe they wouldn't have to take it from others!"

"To Spike the Brave and Glorious!" the first guard cheered.

"And let's not forget Diamond Tiara the Strong and Courageous," said Cadance. Diamond Tiara blushed timidly at her new nickname. The guard picked her up and started tossing her, Spike, and Thorax into the air as they cheered for them. Twilight just watched the scene with an emotional smile on her face as Mario pulled her close and nuzzled her head affectionately.

"Looks like you were right after all," said Starlight as she walked up to the alicorn couple.

"Right about what?" Twilight asked.

"Friendship lessons can happen anywhere," said Starlight. Twilight and Mario just smiled.

"Diamond Tiara has grown so much ever since I took her in as my student," said Mario, "She's still got alot to learn, but the wisdom and maturity she displayed today is well beyond her years."

"Guess you're a better teacher than you give yourself credit for, sweetheart," said Twilight. Mario chuckled as Flurry Heart clung onto his face and snuggled it in agreement, making Starlight and Twilight laugh. Cadance, who was watching Furry Heart snuggle Mario, giggled to herself. Shining Armor smiled, but he still had a skeptical look on his face. He may have offered Thorax friendship, but he still didn't trust the changeling.

It was a few days later that Shining Armor was waiting quietly inside a spare room of the castle alone. The rest of Twilight and Mario's visit had gone rather smoothly and they, along with Spike, Diamond Tiara, and Starlight, had already returned home. It had taken some time for the crystal ponies to get used to Thorax, but once the changeling started helping out and being friendly. The ice soon melted and Thorax was soon having conversations with the other crystal ponies like he did when he was disguised as Crystal Hoof. Shining Armor did have to admit that he was grateful that Thorax was also very cooperative. When he asked his questions regarding Chrysalis and the Changeling Kingdom, Thorax had wasted no time telling Shining Armor everything he knew. He was grateful for the information, but also worried considering how ruthless Chrysalis could be to her subjects, or minions as he described them. It was then Cadance entered the room.

"Honey, Shenran has arrived," said Cadance. The Pegasus stallion walked up and saluted.

"Captain," said Shenran formally.

"At ease," said Shining Armor, "Umm...where's Fluttershy?"

"She's busy playing with Flurry Heart," said Shenran, making Shining Armor chuckle. Cadance walked up to her husband and kissed his cheek.

"Are you sure this is necessary?" Cadance asked in a whisper.

"Yes, please trust me," said Shining Armor assumingly. Cadance nodded to concede before giving Shenran a nod and walked out of the room. Shining Armor's face turned more serious once his wife had left the room.

"This message is only for you," said Shining Armor sternly, "Nopony, not even your own wife, must know about this. At least not until the time comes."

"I...understand sir," said Shenran nervously, "But...what time might that be about?" Shining Armor then used his magic to show Shenran a very worn out book.

"Before your father passed," said Shining Armor, "He asked me to give you this when the time was right. I actually should've given you this back during the wedding, but...I wish not to speak of that again."

"Understood, sir," said Shenran as he took the book with his left wing, "but why would my father want to wait until the wedding to give this to me."

"He said he had to do with the changelings," said Shining Armor. Shenran was stunned.

"The changelings?!" said Shenran as he looked at the book. He read the title and looked rather baffled.

The Journal of the Last Keyblade Warrior

"But why would I need this information?" said Shenran, "Wouldn't you benefit from this information far more than I, sir?"

"Well you are a swordspony," said Shining Armor, "And as much as I wanted to open the book myself, it's got a special lock that only a Pegasus can solve. You're father said you would know how to unlock it." Shenran eyeballed the opening of the lock. He then stuck two tips of his right wing into the lock, which opened the mechanism. Shenran had barely opened the cover when a bright light shot out from the front page. Shenran and Shining Armor both yelped as the former dropped the book and out came out a holographic image of a middle-age Pegasus stallion, who's name was Talen.

"Father?!" Shenran exclaimed.

"Shenran, my son," said Talen, "if you've opened this book, that means that my worst fears have been realized. Long ago before the reign of Celestia and Luna and during the early coalition of the three pony tribes. The changelings and their leader, Queen Kampia, declared war on the newly formed nation of Equestria." It was then a flashback was seen of ponies wearing medieval style armor were battling the changelings.

"The changelings ability to disguise themselves as our fellow ponies gave them a huge advantage," Talen narrated as three soldiers fought side by side, but then one solder was shocked to find that his fellow comrades were changelings and overwhelmed him, "it seemed as if Equestria was doomed to fall to the changeling swarm. But then the great and powerful wizard Star Swirl the Bearded and his faithful student, Clover the Cleaver, worked together to create a special weapon known at the keyblade. However, the keyblade was not just any magical weapon, keyblades could only he wielded by ponies with strong hearts. Hearts that would never lose hope no matter how grim things became. Only a small handful of warriors were able to hold or even use such weapons. These chosen few became known as the Keyblade Warriors." The flashback showed Star Swirl and Clover as they created the first keyblade. One pony went to pick up the weapon and was immediately repelled. Several other ponies were repelled as well. Then one pony, with a determined look on his face, held the keyblade on his grip, making it glow brightly as the magic made his own body sparkle. Star Swirl and Clover were stunned. Then a scene was shown of several ponies, each of them holding their very own special keyblade. No keyblade was the same. Then they were seen jumping into battle, knocking out the changelings with ease, even shooting magic blasts from them and using their keyblade's magic to even heal their fellow comrades on the battlefield. One Keyblade Warrior appeared before a group of five ponies. The Keyblade Warrior then used his keyblade's magic to expose the fakes without a second thought and knocked them out with physical and magic attacks.

"This Keyblade Warrior were the turning point of the war," Talen continued as the flashback showed the changelings fleeing, "but Queen Kampia refused to stand down. She changed tactics by having the changelings attack the Keyblade Warriors directly." An image showed the Keyblade Warriors being ambushed and quickly overwhelmed.

"Despite being outnumbered," said Talen, "Equestria won the war and Queen Kampia fled. But the victory was at a great cost. The Keyblade Warriors were all wiped out...all except one." A flashback showed a battered looking Pegasus still holding his keyblade as he stood still with a firm expression on his face. It was then the flashback ended.

"That Keyblade Warrior," said Talen, "was your ancestor, Shenran."

"Wuh?!" Shenran exclaimed in utter shock. Even Shining Armor's jaw dropped.

"Your strong desire to fight and protect those you love comes from the same magic that made your ancestor such a powerful Keyblade Warrior," said Talen, "and now the time has come for you to access that magic yourself. This journal contains the instructions necessary to create and use your own keyblade. Our family always knew the changelings would return to try and conquer Equestria again and now you can use this knowledge to help us in defeating the changelings once more. Just remember, my son. The true strength of the Keyblade Warrior comes from your heart. No matter how dire things become, never give up hope, never forget who you are fighting for, and you will find that your inner strength will be your greatest source of power." With that, the image of Talen disappeared. Shenran was still in shock as Shining Armor used his magic to hand the Pegasus stallion the book.

"I think it is very important that you create this...keyblade, Shenran," said Shining Armor.

"It is really necessary?" said a voice. Shenran and Shining Armor blinked to see Fluttershy and Cadance had been listening in this whole time.

"Cadance!" Shining Armor whined, "This meeting was supposed to be top secret! I could have Shenran court martial for this!"

"Don't you dare hurt my husband!" Fluttershy said defensively as she hovered in front of him.

"Everypony calm down," said Cadance as Fluttershy landed and nuzzled her husband close as the pink alicorn looked to her husband, "It's alright, Shining Armor. Fluttershy was worried and I gave her my consent to know about this. We can trust her to keep this quiet for now."

"Of course," said Fluttershy. Shining Armor chuckled, but then blinked.

"Uh, honey," said Shining Armor worriedly, "Who's watching the baby?"

"Thorax," said Cadance, "Flurry Heart has taken a liking to our new changeling resident. Not even my magic could pry her off his face." Fluttershy giggled.

"Are you sure she's..." Shining Armor asked wearily, but Cadance interrupted.

"She's perfectly fine," said Cadance firmly, who was well aware of that Shining Armor still had some distrust of Thorax.

"Fine," said Shining Armor in a irritated tone.

"I always knew my husband was special," said Fluttershy, hoping to redirect the conversation, "but I had no idea his desire to protect ponies meant he had special magic inside of him."

"And now he'll be able to tap into the magic for when the changelings attack," said Shining Armor, "Much similar to the way a unicorn can access magic."

"B-b-but what makes you so sure the changelings will attack?" Fluttershy asked.

"I thought Thorax was on our side," Shenran added.

"He is on our side," said Cadance, "and he's been very cooperative with sharing information about the changelings, from their lifestyle to their family structure and more. I've been keeping notes since I know a certain purple pony princess would murder me if I didn't collect this information for her library." Shenran and Fluttershy didn't resist giggling to each other.

"From what Thorax has shared with us," said Shining Armor in a more serious tone, "the changelings have a very militant family structure. It's very similar to the academy. And I'm sure Shenran understands what happens when a cadet decides to leave the family without consent from their leader." Shenran then blinked.

"Sweet Celestia!" said Shenran, "Thorax isn't just some loner changeling. He's an escapee who has gone AWOL on his own hive!"

"Exactly," said Shining Armor, "and if they follow typical protocol. I'm sure there might be other changelings looking for him."

"But the attack on Canterlot was years ago," said Shenran, "The love magic blast you and Cadance used to drive them out of the royal city scattered all the changelings across Equestria."

"But I'm sure by now they've managed to determine who made it back to where ever their base is and have reported that Thorax is missing," said Shining Armor, "If Queen Chrysalis is as crafty as I think, what better opportunity to conquer Equestria by having her entire swarm hunt down Thorax?" There was a long silence as the other ponies shared worried looks with each other.

"It is better to be safe than sorry," Shining Armor continued, "Mario is the only pony strong enough to resist any changeling who might try to drain his love. And natural magic against them isn't very effective. This keyblade could give us a far greater chance of dispelling their attack if the need arises. Shenran must construct his own keyblade and the sooner it is done, the better. But you and Fluttershy must keep this quiet. We don't need to stir up any fear, or in my sister's case, additional paranoia. So your friends must not know about this until the time comes to pass." Fluttershy and Shenran shared firm looks with each other.

"We understand, sir," said Shenran as he gave his former captain another salute. Shining Armor returned the gesture.

As the sun set on the Crystal Empire, Shining Armor and Cadance stood alone at the balcony. A quick check with Thorax showed that the changeling was still keeping Flurry Heart entertained and they left the two alone. As they watched Fluttershy and Shenran made their leave for the train station, Cadance nuzzled her husband gently. Shining Armor held his wife close. While they felt more at ease that Shenran would be constructing the changeling's very weakness...

He was still only one pony.

They could only hope that their worst fears would never become a reality.

Well I certain had my work cut out for me regarding this chapter. Alot of you said you enjoyed the dynamic between Diamond Tiara and Spike and this episode was the perfect opportunity to pair them up again. I hope you enjoyed Diamond Tiara's involvement and the fact she even did some Pokemon style battles with the royal guards! And I hope I didn't tarnish Spike's song by adding Diamond Tiara into it. As I said before, music lyrics are not my best strength. But I tried hard to stay in tune and I hope I'm getting better at it.

Also, once I announced that Shenran was going to wield a keyblade, I knew that I was going to have to explain at some point how he got the knowledge needed to craft and use it. So this chapter also acts as a prelude to what will happen at the end of the season. So I hope you enjoyed the alternate ending!

Plus Chrysalis is Greek for butterfly larve or cacoon. Kampia is Greek for the caterpillar before it transforms into a butterfly.

And I do ask diehard fans of Kingdom Hearts not to bash me for my take on the origins of the keyblade warriors. Based on my own research, their origins in the kingdom hearts games is so dark and twisted that there was no way I could parody it in this story. So I had to rebuild their history with something much more family friendly and that allowed me to come up with my own little folklore about the changelings and their first attempt to invade Equestria.

On another note: I have never read the FEINDship is magic comic book about Chrysalis' origins. I wanted to come up with something fresh since the comics often reference content from the show, but the show never discusses anything from the comics. What's considered canon or not is too debatable for me.

Next time: It's time for guys night! But be warned, I have never played Dungeons and Dragons. So don't expect me to really expand on that aspect of this episode. I'll be focusing more on creating a new dynamic between what is now a party of five instead of three. In fact, it will be more than that since I'm bringing back a certain koala alot of readers have been wanting to see return and a brand new "pet" will be joining the group as well.

Peace Pony Fans!