A noise pierced through the haze of my alcoholic coma. My heavy eyelids struggled to open, freeing my pitiful carcass form from the sofa bed that served as my bed. Staggering, I made my way to the shower.

The icy water hit me, jolting me from my stupor. My long hair clung to my face, while my skeletal arms struggled to clear it away. Putting on clothes that seemed somewhat clean, I glanced at the mirror.

The reflection that stared back at me was that of a emaciated man, with green eyes darting, half-hidden beneath strands of black hair. My skin was of an unsettling pallor, and a several-day-old beard adorned my face.

I averted my gaze from this stranger, taking the few necessary steps to reach my fridge and retrieve my breakfast: a beer accompanied by leftover instant noodles, swallowed with little regard for taste.

Another sound rang out, this time it was my old alarm instructing me to go to work. My body obeyed before my brain could react, leaving the half-empty beer on the table.

The streets were already bustling. Hands buried in my pockets, head lowered, I moved forward, avoiding the crowd as much as possible. Taking the familiar alleys, there were always too many people. It was, as usual, a struggle to reach the office.

I entered through the back door and slipped into my workspace to scrutinize invoices and track irregularities in the accounts, sending confirmation emails. It was a thankless job, but solitary, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. My brain operated on autopilot.

At the specified time in my contract, I shut down my computer. I waited ten long minutes for most of my colleagues to leave before slipping away myself.

Passing through the same alleys on the way back, I came across groups of friends who seemed to be having fun. Their laughter twisted my heart on one side and filled me with rage on the other, while tears streamed down my cheeks, hidden by my hair.

I picked up the pace slightly, heading towards my first-floor apartment, slamming the door with the little energy I had left. I finished the half-empty beer I had left, before pouring myself another, more than I should have.

My vision was blurred, my thoughts muddled. I made my way to the gas stove, struggling to open all the valves before lying down on what served as my bed, drinking what I believed to be my last beer, a bitter smile on my lips...

"To the friends I never had."

I woke up with numb limbs, struggling to open my eyes, plunging into a green liquid where my breath formed bubbles. My movements had become powerless, I thrashed with all my might, consumed by terror. A figure approached, a distorted voice reached me, simultaneously terrifying and gentle, icy and warm. A round object seemed to graze the surface of my container.

"You are destined to become a great soldier," she murmured. I writhed with even greater vigor, although my limbs remained inert. "Rest, my child. Your hatching is still far off." Then, footsteps receded, the form along with them.

Hatching, soldier? An oppressive silence swallowed my cries. I tried desperately to turn my head, but in vain. Fatigue engulfed me, I struggled to stay conscious, pushing my body to its limits, unable to bite my lip. Darkness swallowed me once again.

I had no idea how long I had been dozing. When my strength returned, I screamed, mustering every ounce of courage, thrashing with all my might. Perhaps I wasn't an athlete, more like a reject, but I harbored a newfound determination—to be free, to fight, to live again.

The container cracked the moment my head collided with it. I screamed inwardly, triumph echoing as the container gave way.

Crushed on the ground with the liquid and fragments of my prison, my arms, and legs were still absent. I tried to turn my head to inspect them, but something was amiss. I could only feel my oddly articulated torso.

The walls and floor of this room were shrouded in darkness, only the fluorescent green eggs provided a faint glow. An odd "bzzzz" escaped my lips instead of a curse...

I crawled painfully along the gleaming corridor, my muscles aching. A low growl emanated from my stomach as hunger gnawed at me. A buzzing echoed down the corridor.

"You're truly special, my child... tenacious and adventurous," murmured the same voice I had heard earlier. I couldn't help but respond.

"Bzzzre bzz zrr!" Yes. 'What are you!' sounded better in my head... Four black, perforated legs settled before me. A green light enveloped me, lifting me from the ground. I saw fly wings and the distorted figure of a horse with long, pointed teeth, crowned above a pale blue mane. A long, twisted horn gleamed a brilliant green.

"I'll take care of you. Your siblings will take a little longer to hatch." Wait, this thing thought it was my mother? We're not even the same species! I hope...

"How should I call you?" She took me in her hoof, covered in some sort of black carapace. It was always the same strange sensation. Her hoof were cold, but I strangely felt comfortable in her hooves.

"Bzzz!" My name never left my lips. The relative comfort of her hooves made me doze off again.

Laughter burst from the mouth of this sharp-toothed creature. "Well, you certainly have a sharp tongue, at least." Opening its mouth, a sort of pinkish smoke emerged, a small green light above my head. My hunger began to dissipate as the smoke vanished. A sensation I hadn't felt in a long time seized me, a gentle breeze caressing my skin, a soothing warmth enveloping me from within. I fell loved...

With tears in my eyes, I passed by a reflective surface. My head topped a white larval torso, a horn adorned my forehead, and the last detail I noticed was my yellow eyes.

Before drifting into drowsiness within the hooves of this strange creature, I wondered if my former life was a nightmare from which I had just awakened.

"Sleep, my child. We will begin your training as soon as possible." I will do my best not to become the outcast I once was... Mother. That was my silent promise before drifting off to sleep.

I woke up alone in a cradle, confined to this small cell, bathed in an oddly familiar greenish light... Why did everything here seem to be tinged with this pale green hue?

My eyes scanned the bars, instinct urging me to approach, to try to climb them... But the absence of legs and arms made the task particularly challenging, if not unfortunately impossible. A helpless frustration took hold of me. I began to pace in my cradle, letting my mind wander. Despite my youthful appearance, I was an adult. The psychological craving for beer was already gnawing at me, demanding a stimulus, be it physical or mental!

I wandered in circles, like an animal in a cage, focused on taming these new muscles as time seemed to blur as I continued to explore my limited surroundings. I tried to make sense of the strange appendage on my forehead, the horn that seemed to be a part of me. It felt like an extension of my being, pulsing with an energy I couldn't quite understand.

I focused on the horn, willing it to respond to my thoughts. Slowly, tentatively, it began to emit a soft glow. It was a small victory, but it filled me with a sense of hope and purpose.

I didn't know how long I had circled in that cradle, but one thing was certain: "Bzzz dreee reeee!" 'Mother or someone!' It always sounded better in my head...

No buzzing of wings or the sound of hooves reached my ears, so I continued honing my ability to move. As soon as my new mother arrived, I'd give her the cold shoulder for leaving me alone!

Okay, I was already a brat. So, I decided to practice sticking out my tongue in advance making me whistle, which was oddly long and pointed, like a serpent's.

After an interminable period in which I had already worked all the muscles I could, I heard the sounds of hooves approaching.

Setting aside my growing resentment, I hurried to the other end of my cradle, my yellow eyes wide open. "Brezzz?" 'Mom?'

My disappointment was immense when I saw something resembling my mother, but smaller and less welcoming. Its green eyes were locked onto mine, as if I had insulted its entire family.

I started to look down, but then remembered the promise I had made to myself: I would no longer be a victim of life.

I lifted my gaze with perfect confidence, conveying all the accumulated anger from my past life in my eyes, as my horn softly glow. "Bb zeee drezz!" 'Do you have a problem?' The creature took a slight step back, its expression showing shock, which made me smile.

It quickly placed a tray in my cradle before leaving the room, its eyes still fixed on me, "what is this larva?" he said worried.

Once the creature was gone, I looked at the small cubes of some kind of jelly arranged on the tray. After all the exercise I had done, I was a bit hungry. I approached the pieces and nibbled on the first one. It wasn't the best thing I'd ever eaten, but it satisfied my hunger.

The creature returned some time later to retrieve the tray, and my eyes followed it the whole way until it exited.

I allowed myself to fall asleep to rest my muscles and aid in digestion.

I was awakened by the sound of hooves, and I shot a murderous look at the intruder with green eyes before recognizing the familiar features. "Bzzz" 'Mom,' I murmured, rushing towards the nearest bars.

"You are definitely special, my Thunder." Thunder, that was the name she wanted to give me?

The green glow emanating from her horn lifted me once again, then gently set me down on the other side of the alcove. As soon as my body touched the ground, I moved as quickly as my newfound mastery of my muscles allowed, heading towards her.

Surprise painted her face. The same green glow lifted me and placed me in another corner of the room, my back turned to her.

Her surprise was even more evident when I pivoted to join her, looking at her with my large yellow eyes, straightening up a bit once I reached her. "You are truly unique, Thunder." She finally took me in her hoof. "I have big plans for you, my child..."

My heart raced, my thoughts a whirlwind. What did she mean by 'big plans'? What was my purpose in all of this?

She held me close, and I could feel her warmth. It was both comforting and unnerving. What awaited me in this new life, in this world so different from the one I knew?

As she gazed into my eyes, I couldn't help but feel a strange connection. Was it the bond between mother and child ?

I don't know how much time has passed since my hatching, but my mother brought me to see my brothers and sisters emerge from their eggs. Their first reaction was to hissed to each other. As my yellow eyes scanned the area, I couldn't help but notice a larva that remained slightly hidden in its shell.

But I promised myself that none of them would surpass me. I redoubled my efforts to master my body and speak my first words in the following days.

While my mother quickly came to check on me, I waited until she was near the exit to deliver my finest "Mom !"

Her steps stopped immediately, and she turned her head towards me. "Yes, Thunder, I am your mom, but I am your queen."

"Bzzz Queen ?"

I could read pride on her face before she left.

My body convulsed uncontrollably as I regurgitated the strange, green liquid, my screams echoing in the confined space. The taste was bitter and foul, burning my throat with each retch. Panic surged through me, my mind racing to comprehend what was happening.

"Queen!" I cried out, the word torn from my lips in desperation. It was a plea, a call for help, a desperate attempt to make sense of the nightmare unfolding around me, causing me to lose consciousness.

I opened my eyes in complete darkness. My body had changed. I could feel I now had four small legs and something on my back, and most importantly, I had a real mouth with sharp fangs!

Using all my strength, I shattered my cocoon into small pieces. Even though it was as dark as usual, I forced myself to stand on my legs, starting to get used to walking. I focused on lighting up my horn. To my surprise, it was easier than before, emitting a green light.

Once again, it seemed I was the first to emerge. "Mother will be delighted..." My voice came out naturally, but it was deep and resonant.

Where was my mother? I moved forward cautiously, step by step, getting used to my new body, looking for someone to point me in her direction. I passed under some sort of arch and found myself face to face with a armored changeling who was asleep. He was easily twice my size, but I didn't care. "You, where is the queen!"

The changeling startled in surprise, thrown backward, while my yellow eyes fixed on him with amusement...

Not surprisingly, I saw him get up angrily and raise one of his legs. I dodged his clumsy strike with a fluid motion. Unfortunately for him, even though I was shaky on my legs, it wasn't the first time I'd been hit. Although it was one of the first times I'd dodged, my head was filled with memories, moments when I'd had to face violence.

I lunged at him with all my weight and strength, but only managed to hurt my head, finding myself staring at the ceiling a second later. My newly acquired body demanded a mastery and strength I hadn't fully acquired yet.

The guard mocked me as he dusted off the spot on his armor where I had charged. "Good boy, now, go back into the hatching room before you hurt yourself," I felt a hoof grab me by the neck's carapace and a kick sent me flying back inside...

"I'll get my revenge," I murmured, focusing on my horn to produce light and on my legs, but my wings seemed unable to move. I would likely need help learning how to use them properly.

I found myself once again pacing around the room, occasionally checking if the guard had fallen back asleep. Unfortunately, my movements had indeed awakened him, and he grabbed me as soon as I approached the corridor.

I leaned against the back wall, waiting like a prisoner, my gaze fixed on the ceiling, focusing on the light I could emit from my horn.

My yellow eyes scanned the room, my thoughts returning to the secretions I had produced myself to create my cocoon. I tried to spit, expelling a green, sticky liquid. I took some and formed it into a ball, bouncing it against the opposite wall...

Before I could come up with a fun idea, I started secreting that substance again. Approaching the corridor stealthily, I was once again lifted by the guard before throwing the viscous liquid at his face and calmly walking away from the corridor amidst his angry and surprised shouts.

"See you later," I said in a voice as childish as possible, quickly fleeing out of sight.

I entered a long, curved, organic corridor that offered ample and spacious room. I could observe my kin moving swiftly, paying me no mind. Beams of soft and mysterious green light illuminated the passage, creating a serene ambiance.

At times, I noticed the walls opening to allow a group of my kin to pass, almost giving the impression that the hive itself was alive.

This world already presented so many possibilities. My yellow eyes scrutinized every detail. I tried to acclimate myself to this architecture as I walked through the corridors. I even attempted to move my wings, but unfortunately, nothing happened.

Time seemed elastic, and I innocently strolled through the hive, absorbed in the exploration of this new environment. However, this was interrupted by a sharp pain at the base of my skull.

Turning around, I saw the guard, a furious expression adorning his face, his hoof still raised.

"You have no right to leave!" he roared, his voice filled with anger. He grabbed my carapace and pulled me away from the corridor I had ventured into. I tried to resist, but he was much stronger than me. My escapade had been short-lived, and it seemed that my previous actions had not been forgotten. I even had to endure a few slaps that he called 'slaps of good functioning'

Knowing it was futile to protest, I chose to remain silent, crossing my forelegs as he dragged me across the floor. My intelligence advised me not to escalate the situation further. Even though it would be funny...

"Where is Thunder!" a voice roared as I was being dragged on the floor. I recognized this voice, and I understood that I had probably committed my first mischief, and it wouldn't be the last.

"I found I'm, my queen!" the guard proudly announced... I had managed to escape his watchful eye, and he was now about to deal with a little troublemaker.

"Thunder, how did you manage to get out?" My mother's voice was filled with anger and curiosity. I knew that I had just put an end to the guard's career.

"He was sleeping at his post. I woke him up, and I spit in his face to go for a walk, my queen," I replied, feeling the pressure from the guard on my carapace increase. The queen, on the other hand, stared at the guard with a look that seemed to have redirected her anger towards him.

I had won. My mother had shifted her anger onto someone else.

My mother stared at the guard, her eyes shining with an intensity that could have made anyone back away. "You have seriously violated discipline, soldier. The safety of the hive must never be compromised," she declared in a cold voice, " I'll think about your punishment later". The guard lowered his head, clearly terrified by the queen's anger.

She then turned her green eyes towards me. "I know you want to explore the world around you, but there are rules you must follow. You will receive the appropriate training to channel your energy and curiosity." She paused for a moment. "Thunder, you will be trained to become a royal guard."

A mixture of relief, gratitude, and apprehension washed over me. I had won my mother over to my cause, but being a soldier didn't really appeal to me.

In the following days, I received special training led by experienced instructors, before my brothers and sisters emerged from their cocoons. It was both an advantage and a drawback. I had personalized lessons, but it also meant I was far too closely monitored.

I had to wait for two weeks for my brothers and sisters to finally emerge from their cocoons. At least, I was already a head taller than them, which made me smile inwardly. Sort of like a big brother.

I understood why my mother was so impressed with me. Most of them couldn't light their horns or speak properly. And the best part was, I was already able to transform somewhat... Although my attempt to revert to my old appearance hadn't worked yet.

I was aware of my luck and early abilities, even though memories of my previous life helped me a lot in progressing. Serving the hive wasn't really a calling for me. In this new life, I didn't seem to have much of a choice but to move forward. The big difference was that people respected me.

Days went by, and my knowledge of this world expanded. Unfortunately for me, we were in some sort of Cold War with the other peoples. The reason was simple: our main source of sustenance was the feelings of others.

We were like vampires, absorbing the love of others to feed ourselves. It was a complex reality to accept, but it was our nature... My new nature. My mother had explained that we had to be careful not to be seen and that we had eyes everywhere, and most importantly, that I was too young to do it.

My progress in training was steady, and with each passing day, I gained skill and confidence, not allowing my siblings who sought to surpass me to catch up. However, as I grew and improved, my mother seemed to become cold and distant towards me.

This shift in our relationship left me puzzled and saddened. I wondered what could be causing this sudden change. Was it related to my progress, to the very nature of my future role, or was it because of our nature as a hive after all... Questions swirled in my mind, but I didn't dare to voice them aloud.

I tried to find opportunities to talk with her, hoping to understand what was troubling her. However, our conversations had become brief and formal, filled with palpable tension. Every word was measured, every gesture watched, as if she were just my queen.

The growing distance between my mother and me weighed heavily on my shoulders. I had never known my first mother, and the new one was becoming an increasingly cold and distant figure. I often had trouble sleeping in my quarters because of this situation.

Despite it all, I tried not to lose hope. The goal of honoring my mother and my hive remained intact. Every day, I pushed myself, training with relentless determination to surpass my own limits. I hoped that my successes would eventually reignite even a glimmer of pride in my mother's eyes.

Through perseverance and hard work, I even managed to outperform some of my instructors. Some of my siblings were jealous of my progress, which did not help ease tensions within our hive, making me more bitter than ever.

Time passed, and our relationship remained strained. I clung to the hope that circumstances would change, that my mother would regain the warmth and closeness we had once shared. I was willing to do everything in my power to restore our bond, even if it meant redoubling my efforts in my training and in my new role as a royal guard.

My obsession with rekindling my mother's love had become a burden I carried every day. It was both unhealthy and powerful, as it felt essential to love the person who had inadvertently given me a new life. It was a complex feeling that consumed me, because I desperately wanted her to regain the warmth and closeness we had once shared.

Years passed, and I had become a full-fledged royal guard. Compared to my previous life, I had refused to let my body and mind deteriorate. I had traded alcohol for strength training, seeking to keep my body in its best form. I immersed myself in reading every book I had access to, thirsty for knowledge.

Most importantly, I had taken it upon myself to teach the younger ones essential skills for their future lives. I wanted to prepare them to face the challenges of our world with confidence and determination. It was my way of contributing to the future of our hive.

Even though the emptiness in my heart persisted, my mother had become more than just an intimidating figure of a queen. While I couldn't make friends in the conventional sense, I had established relationships based on respect and shared knowledge. My skills and position as a royal guard were enough for no one to question my authority.

It was a balance I had learned to accept. My role in the hive was clear, and I put all my commitment into it. In return, I was fed, housed, and didn't have to worry about basic needs. I had become, in a way, the perfect soldier.

This stability in my life brought me a certain satisfaction. I knew I was fulfilling my duty to my hive and contributing to its safety and well-being. However, I sometimes wondered if there was more to life than this regulated existence... The queen seemed to be preparing something; she was increasingly in discussion with her various spies...

I had guessed it right. The queen had asked me, along with other elite members, to quickly train as many soldiers as possible without giving any specific reasons.

I had observed the queen's preparations, and alongside my brother Pharynx, we were ready to dive into intensive training for the new recruits. Even though I was physically on par with Pharynx, we had never really measured ourselves against each other, and I still kept my secret weapon in reserve.

Pharynx, impressive with his red crest and distinctive eyes, shared my sense of urgency. "The queen insists that we work together to speed up the training of the new recruits. Do you have any ideas on how to proceed?" My question was more intended to break the ice than to solicit his opinion.

Pharynx stared at me intently, his red crest standing out in the surrounding darkness. "I think pushing them to their limits, confronting them with particularly challenging situations from the start would be beneficial."

"You're right," I nodded. "Our future opponents may not be particularly impressive fighters, but we also need to prepare them for better teamwork to reduce risks."

Our plan was set: intense and realistic training for the recruits. We would push them beyond their limits, preparing them for any eventuality on the battlefield. I did my best to focus on urban combat and simulate what I knew about Equestria's cities.

Pharynx and I immediately began implementing our program. Every day was a challenge, every training session a test. The young ones learned quickly, discovering their own strengths and weaknesses. They also learned to work as a team, to rely on each other. I must say, military movies from my world gave me a lot of ideas for training soldiers... Well, mostly goofy stuff.

Injuries were multiplying rapidly among the recruits. It was clear that they were not prepared for the intensity of our training. We were elite soldiers, accustomed to much tougher challenges.

Pharynx shook his head, looking exasperated. "They're far from ready for real combat. We need to adjust the training, make it more progressive."

I nodded, realizing that we might have been too ambitious. "Perhaps we could divide the groups based on their skills and let them progress at their own pace."

Pharynx seemed to consider this idea. "Yes, that could be more effective. This way, we can target the specific needs of each group."

"That would be a great idea if there were more than just two of us," I pointed out, suddenly struck by inspiration. "But maybe I have a solution."

Pharynx scrutinized me, his piercing eyes clearly awaiting an explanation.

A smile stretched across my lips, revealing my sharp teeth. "Why not delegate? We could select the most resilient soldiers to take charge of groups, with the mission of gradually bringing them up to their level."

Pharynx nodded in agreement. "That could work. The fittest soldiers will be responsible for training and leading the groups, gradually bringing them up to their level."

It was a pragmatic solution that would optimize the training of the new recruits. Each group would be supervised by an experienced soldier, making it easier to tailor the training to their specific needs.

This system worked well enough to reduce injuries and even gave me some free time, which I used wisely.

The queen's decision to entrust me with the temporary leadership of the hive and to prepare the troops for the attack on Canterlot was now in our hooves. My mother had announced her conquest plan, but her prolonged absence raised questions and concerns.

Pharynx and I, as seasoned royal guards, were tasked with coordinating the operations. It was a demanding role, but we were determined to ensure that everything went according to plan.

We continued to train the troops with a more flexible approach, adapting our training program based on each individual's needs and progress. The weeks passed quickly, and we noticed significant improvements among the soldiers.

Meanwhile, we were eagerly awaiting news from my mother. Her absence weighed on us, but we had to stay focused on our mission. The conquest of Canterlot would be a major turning point for our hive, and we needed to be ready to face this challenge.

Feeding on the emotions of harmless ponies wasn't a problem in itself, it was our nature after all. But enslaving souls for sustenance, that was an entirely different matter. My heart was torn between my duty to the hive and the ethical questions that plagued me.

Pharynx and the other changelings I knew didn't share my concerns. Perhaps my human nature tormented me more, but even I couldn't ignore that glimmer of morality...

The question tore at my mind. It was too heavy, too haunting. Yet, I couldn't afford to share it with my kin.

The battle was fast approaching. It wasn't the time to falter, yet I felt increasingly desperate. I had to move forward, for my queen, for my kind...

The news from the queen finally arrived, bringing with it the promise of sustenance and the assurance of our rightful place in this world... However, despite her words, her face remained devoid of joy, marked by a cold anger that chilled me to the bone.

Her green eyes seemed to scrutinize my soul, and when she took on the appearance of a young mare with light pink fur and a mane composed of three colors: pale yellow, bright pink, and violet, she pierced through my heart. I had never been particularly sensitive to the suffering of others.

Yet, this time, something had changed within me. The sight of this young mare, so innocent yet so vulnerable, awakened a compassion in me that I had never felt before. Her image haunted me, and I felt overwhelmed by a mixture of empathy and profound sadness.

The queen's words still echoed in my head, cruelly contrasting with the pain I felt. She spoke of our "rightful" place in this world, but what did that truly mean?

I hadn't always been a Changeling, and the hive was the only thing I knew. What if the queen had been lying to us since our birth?

I close my eyes, anxious. I had a job to do, and I would do it...

I found myself in a sunlit meadow, surrounded by a sea of colorful wildflowers. Birds sang melodies that seemed to harmonize with the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. As I walked through the meadow, a feeling of pure contentment washed over me. In the distance, I spotted a cozy cottage nestled beneath a tall, ancient oak tree.

Approaching the cottage, I could smell the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread and hear laughter from within. I pushed open the door to find faceless pony, all gathered around a long, rustic table. The room was filled with warmth and the soft glow of golden sunlight streaming through the windows.

Suddenly, their heads turned towards me, their expressions shifting to terror. The bread began to emit a putrid smell, and the walls seemed to ooze with mold as I entered.

Conversations morphed into unintelligible, chilling murmurs, resonating in my ears like whispers from the beyond. An atmosphere of horror permeated every corner of the room.

As twilight approached, the darkness seemed to thicken, swallowing any hope of light. Hunger consumed me, my fangs bared, and I hissed, trying to restrain myself.

I woke up with a start, breathless, tears in my eyes, my heart pounding as if trying to escape my chest.

I whispered to myself, "I am not this monster."

At this critical moment, I was with my men, but compared to them, I was caught between the turmoil of my conscience and the duty that lay upon me. The hour of the assault was inexorably approaching. Behind the imposing silhouette of Canterlot Mountain, the city appeared almost unreachable under the rosy veil of a magical shield.

The buildings stood tall, solemn witnesses to the relentless passage of time and the history of an entire nation. Their white stone, laden with a past I had never seen equaled, whether in my past life or in this one, seemed imbued with a subtle touch of magic.

From my vantage point, I tried to guess the purpose of certain structures, particularly the one that stood out. It was hard not to let my mind wander to the enormous donut-shaped sign, suddenly reminding me of the hunger gnawing at me. Perhaps, once our mission was accomplished, I would indulge in this tempting treat.

Yet, once the buildings had been destroyed, once the population was under our control, once the cheers for the queen had resounded, and once the cultural heritage and civilization had sunk... I would find sleep ?

The nightmares I had experienced were coming back to haunt me, the faces of the ponies I was about to face were etched in my memory. They may have been weak, perhaps necessary for our survival, but no one deserved to endure this. My yellow eyes reflected the sadness that engulfed me.

My gaze swept over the city, and despite myself, I half-expected to see foals playing in the gardens, couples strolling hand in hand, groups of friends sharing moments of joy... But instead, I knew I would be the shadow that would darken their happiness. Like in my worst nightmares, I was there to sow terror and destroy lives.

Suspended in the air, I tried to contain the turmoil devouring me from within, whispering words to gather courage: "I do it for you, Mother..."

The column of green light rose inside the castle, signaling the beginning of the assault. That's when I spoke a line from a movie: "Everybody Fights, No One Quits. If You Don't Do Your Job, I'll Kill You Myself!" It was a way to rally the troops, but also to give myself the courage to fulfill what our mother expected of us, even though a heavy lump knotted my stomach and I struggled to hold back the tears threatening to fall.

We charged with all our might against the shield, making it waver under our repeated assault. It seemed to be losing its resistance under our combined weight. On the other side, I could make out six ponies running from what I assumed was the castle as we broke through the shield.

Suddenly, in a pink flash and the sound of shattered glass, cracks multiplied across the surface of the shield before finally giving way completely. My siblings immediately rushed in for the attack, except for one, the usual whiner, who seemed a bit dazed in the air. Knowing that I wasn't the only one feeling that our actions were wrong provided me with a slight comfort, even as I continued relentlessly.

My fears were realized as soon as I landed. I saw panic spread through the streets, barely enough time to realize that they were being attacked. I stood frozen, in shock at what we had just unleashed.

My yellow eyes were wide open as my siblings chased defenseless ponies. We were the aggressors, and the cries of fear and pleading pierced my heart. I took a deep breath, walking calmly, my yellow eyes burning with self-directed rage, heading towards the donut shop I had spotted earlier.

The door was ajar, and the occupants had already fled. I closed it behind me, locking it carefully, then went behind the counter to grab one of the still-warm donuts in my hooves.

Despite my exoskeleton, I could still feel the heat emanating from it. The scent wafting up was intoxicating. I sank my fangs into it. It was delicious, sweet, and undeniably prepared with love.

Tears streamed down my face as I ate. I had reached my breaking point. The sounds of battle still echoed outside. I gazed at my reflection in the glass display case .

The creature I saw was a monster, with long fangs, riddled with holes, its yellow eyes shining, filled with tears. "Another stranger in the mirror..." Hardly had these words left my mouth when memories of my previous life became impossible to contain.

Fell to the ground, striking it with my bare hoof, before a roar of rage escaped my throat, followed by a hiss. "Not in this life!"

With immense mental effort, I resumed my former appearance. "I am already dead, what should I be afraid of?" I gazed at myself again in the glass display case, a man with long black hair, a determined yet tear-filled gaze.

His arms were no longer frail, his skin less pale, modest pecs and abs concealed his ribs, and he wore a forced smile on his face.

I would no longueur follow my duty, but what is right. In my mind, I forged the image of a pegasus with a yellow mane and white coat, his cutie mark composed of two crossed lightning bolts.

I will stand against these monsters I once called brothers, as well as against this tyrant. That's why I'm not dead, and I won't repeat the mistakes of my past. If I'm to be a monster, I might as well hunt down others.

With my new appearance, I strode towards the door with determination. Opening it with a deep breath, I spread my wings and immediately flew towards three of my former colleagues who had cornered a pony in an alleyway.

I fought fiercely, trying to rally a few royal guards to help me evacuate civilians from the city. I had trained them well, but they couldn't match my skill. I held my ground with all my might, shouting war cries borrowed from movies and games.

I stood tall in front of a stack of incapacitated Changelings, with civilians behind me trying to escape. Of course, that's when he decided to show up.

Pharynx swooped down toward me in an attempt at a surprise attack. My dodge, though clumsy, was enough for him to land in front of me, his wings quivering, poised to redeploy.

I locked eyes with him, aware that other Changelings were watching the scene without intervening. Under normal circumstances, I would have been confident in my ability to win, but in this form, and after the exhaustion of my many battles, my odds seemed slim.

Pharynx lunged at me with surprising agility, his wings hissing through the air. I swiftly pivoted, evading his strike. Then, I reared up on my hind legs, spreading my limbs in a taunting gesture. "Sorry, but I don't dance, sweetheart."

I could see anger burning in Pharynx's eyes, and muffled laughter emanating from the ranks of onlookers. He came at me with a newfound fury, taking on the form of a wolf. I barely had time to dodge his jaws before he shifted into a dragon, belching a wave of flames toward my face.

Instinctively used my wing to shield myself, but it tore a cry of pain from me and prevented me from seeing his next attack. A violent impact sent me hurtling backward, smashing against a wall before hitting the ground.

Despite the searing pain, I forced myself to stand just as a pink light exploded within Canterlot Castle, propelling my mother through the same light. Without hesitation, I charged inside the building.

Intense pain gripped me, pressing me against the walls for several seconds. Inside, I felt one of my ribs give way, sending agonizing pain coursing through my body.

"Stay conscious," it was the only thought that crossed my mind as the pressure finally eased, don't show what you are.

Stood laboriously on my hooves, slowly emerging from my hiding spot. The pain forced me to focus on my pegasus form. The battle was over, but it was not the time to let down my guard.

I moved with difficulty through the streets, although the buildings had suffered minimal damage, the roads were cluttered with various carts and debris. Ponies were reuniting with their loved ones while the royal guard provided aid to the wounded.

I blended into the shadows, trying not to draw attention as I headed towards the city's exit. I had made the right choice, but I remained partially responsible for the damage and injuries caused by the confrontation. It was time for me to fade away.

The ponies I crossed paths with seemed marked by the attack, and I recognized some that I had helped.

As I prepared to cross a seemingly deserted street, a soft and trembling voice made me jump.

"Excuse me, sir... You're... you're the Pegasus who helped me earlier, aren't you?"

I turned to face a young unicorn, with a coat of light beige, almost golden, and a mane of creamy white. His cutie mark was a Harlequin mask. His eyes were a light blue, filled with recognition and relief, emotions I had only seen in my previous life.

"Yes, it's me," I replied, not quite sure how to react.

The pony smiled faintly. "I don't know how to thank you for your help."

"I just did what I had to do. I'm glad I could assist you." However, my ears were pinned back, and my gaze fixed on the ground, overwhelmed by the shame of having led part of the attackers and contributed to the attack preparations...

He approached me, gently placing his hoof on my shoulder, his eyes shining with gratitude. "I owe you one, Mr...?"

"Thunder," I replied without much thought. He looked at me with understanding, noticing my posture and my hoof on my ribs.

"You seem injured, Thunder..." He paused, seemingly hesitant. He was right, but I couldn't let a stranger tend to me and risk discovering my true nature.

"Nothing serious, just a few scratches..." My voice betrayed the pain I was feeling. "By the way, you still haven't given me your name."

"Onyx Shine" seemed momentarily taken aback by my question. I took the initiative to prevent him from insisting.

"You're right, Onyx. I'll find a place to rest and heal a bit." I gave him a slight nod.

"Do you have somewhere to go at least?" His question caught me off guard, as I had neither money nor a specific destination in mind, and of course, it was the moment when my stomach decided to growl.

"I, uh..." It was his turn to interrupt me, gently pushing me forward.

"I insist that you at least have a meal before you leave." I sighed softly, thinking I could maintain my form for a while longer...

"Alright, Onyx, if it will make you feel better."

I followed him for a few minutes, realizing that I wouldn't be able to shake him off anyway. The persistent pain prevented me from fully concentrating on a new transformation, which made me particularly nervous. I was uncomfortable, but there was nothing I could do about it.

We arrived at a house slightly set back from the town. The neighborhood seemed to be intended for the middle class, with more modest homes than those in the city center. Nevertheless, the majesty of the style was not lacking in charm. The shades of color between each house clearly indicated the boundaries of each property.

Onyx stopped in front of a house with a bright white roof, while the walls sported a soft shade of blue. A small garden adorned with a few flowers beautified the entrance.

Onyx opened the front door and turned to me with a benevolent smile. "Welcome to my home, Thunder. Make yourself at home."

I thanked him with a nod, but I couldn't help but feel a little uneasy. How long had it been since I was invited to someone's house? "I am grateful for your hospitality, Onyx."

Upon entering, I was immediately greeted by a warm and artistic atmosphere. The walls were adorned with various posters of local theater productions; some featured Onyx in supporting roles, and more rarely as the lead.

The living room, where we entered, was comfortably furnished. A sofa and armchairs with plush cushions surrounded a small coffee table on which lay books of plays. The curtains were made of red velvet, evoking the atmosphere of a small theater.

Onyx gestured for me to sit, and I didn't hesitate. The sofa was remarkably comfortable, which somewhat alleviated the discomfort of my injuries.

"You're passionate about performance, aren't you?" I asked timidly, part of me impressed by the array of posters and performances that adorned the walls.

Onyx gave a smile filled with pride. He seemed delighted to talk about his passion.

"Yes, indeed. It's my whole life, even though I'm just a modest, little-known actor. I love bringing characters to life, stirring the emotions of the audience. It's a form of art that deeply fascinates me."

I could feel the enthusiasm in his voice, and it reminded me of the time in my previous life when I too had dreams and aspirations. I was both happy and melancholic to see someone so invested in their passion.

"And you, Thunder? What are your passions, your interests?" he asked with a curious smile.

I terrorize and feed on the emotions of the other races that inhabit this world... "Actually, I wander and make a living through my strength and stunts." I couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt as I lied to him. The prospect of being alone without a real long-term plan was beginning to weigh on me. "But rest assured, despite my rough exterior, I still appreciate art."

Onyx observed me with a mix of surprise and admiration. "That's fascinating. You must have incredible strength to live this way. And yet, you still appreciate art. It's an unusual but very interesting combination."

I nodded, acknowledging the truth in his words. "Yes, life has taught me to find beauty in unexpected places. Raw strength can be a form of art in itself, after all."

We continued to chat, sharing stories and experiences. I was surprised to see how open-minded and curious Onyx was. He never asked intrusive questions about my past, content to appreciate the person I was in that moment.

I forgot my worries and guilt. It was nice to simply be myself, without the weight of my two lives of past deeds. Onyx reminded me that there were good people in this world, souls capable of understanding and accepting at least a part of everyone's complexity.

The meal was simple but delicious. Onyx had prepared a dish of fresh pasta with a homemade tomato sauce, garnished with fresh herbs from the garden. The flavor was exquisite, and every bite was a pure delight. It was my first real meal in years, even though I didn't really need it, a part of me seemed to be fulfilled.

The evening stretched gently, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. Onyx showed me his collection of theater masks, each telling a different story. Some were grotesque, others filled with sadness or joy. Each one was a work of art in its own right, and I could feel the passion that Onyx poured into each of his creations.

As the night advanced, fatigue began to set in. Onyx offered me to stay for the night, and this time, I didn't hesitate. I needed this respite, this moment of comfort. I even forgot a part of my love hunger.

I stood at the top of a lush, green hill, overlooking a vast and breathtaking landscape. The sky was a brilliant blue, dotted with white clouds like cotton candy. The sun gently shone, casting its warm light over everything around me.

Vibrant-colored flowers swayed in the breeze, creating an enchanting spectacle. Birds sang a soft and soothing melody, as if celebrating the beauty of the world that surrounded them.

Yet, I was alone. Despite the beauty of this view, it felt dimmed by the absence of companionship...

Suddenly, nightfall descended abruptly. Deep inside, I sensed a presence attempting to enter my dream and thoughts.

Though it didn't appear malevolent, but rather curious, I fought with all my might against this intrusion, making my heart and mind beat with an intensity that brought me back to reality.

My eyes snapped open, bathed in the gentle moonlight filtering through the slightly open window of the room I had been given.

"What was that?" I murmured, rising from the bed, my ribs hurting much less now.

I gazed towards the moon, my mind swirling with questions in my true form...

Despite my short night, I was fully revitalized by the restful sleep. The fresh sheets and the peaceful atmosphere of Onyx's room had offered me a comfort I hadn't remembered.

I rose gently, feeling my muscles more relaxed than they had been in a long time. After stretching, I took a few moments to observe the room. The morning rays pierced through the curtains, casting dancing patterns on the walls.

I cautiously descended the stairs, expecting to run into Onyx. The house was silent, allowing me a moment to appreciate the artistic details that adorned every corner.

When I arrived in the kitchen, Onyx was already busy preparing breakfast. The enticing smell of freshly ground coffee filled the air. He turned around upon hearing me approach, displaying a warm smile.

"Good morning, Thunder. Did you sleep well?" he asked kindly.

"Yes, thank you. Your house exudes art and serenity. It's truly a special place," I replied sincerely.

Onyx nodded with gratitude. "I'm glad you feel comfortable here. Breakfast will be ready in a few moments."

We shared a delicious and hearty meal, punctuated by light conversation. Onyx was as charming and considerate a host as he had been the night before. I felt increasingly at ease in his company, but I knew I had to leave for both our safety.

"I shouldn't delay leaving the city, Onyx. I appreciate your hospitality, but I can't stay any longer."

Onyx nodded gently, seeming to understand my situation. "I understand, Thunder."

I felt a twinge of regret as I left this house filled with art and warmth, but I knew it was the right decision. We exchanged a look of mutual respect, then I headed towards the door.

"I will never forget our encounter, Onyx," I said as I left. "I would be delighted to see you again if I happen to pass through the area."

I headed towards the city's exit. My decision was made; I was going to explore this world.

I moved away from Canterlot, out of sight, before resuming my true form. Strangely, my knowledge of pony habits was helpful up to a certain point, but on the subjects that concerned me now, I realized I was far from being an expert.

I settled on a rock, contemplating what I needed to do. I should find a way to make money and quickly invest in exploration equipment, or at least something to keep from sleeping under the stars.

I probably could have found good opportunities in Canterlot, but the presence of last night told me it was better to distance myself, and my mother has probably already noticed my absence. If she sends spies to look for me, I'll be in big trouble...

I decided to follow one of the many railways leaving from the city

As I heard the train approaching, I quickly transformed into the creature I had chosen to embody. I decided to settle on the roof of one of the cars, hoping for a more comfortable journey.

The sensation was much more pleasant than I had imagined, even though the persistent pain from my damaged ribs made itself known. At least the travel would be swift. "I don't know where I'm going, but at least I'm getting there fast," I joked to myself, watching the natural landscape pass by.

The wind whipped through my fur, carrying with it the remnants of my past life. I was free, free to choose my own destiny and forge my own path. Every beat of my wings, every heartbeat, carried me a little further into the unknown. And for the first time in a long while, I was eager to discover what the future held for me.

A small, colorful town began to appear in the distance, with a quaint and welcoming appearance. Its buildings were constructed in a rustic style, in harmony with the surrounding nature.

The roofs of the houses were adorned with colorful tiles, and the walls sported soft and warm hues. The gardens that surrounded the houses were lush and filled with flowers of all kinds, creating a true festival of colors. Rows of trees formed shaded alleys in some streets, bringing a sense of freshness and tranquility.

A large building with a red roof stood in the middle of the small town. It stood out due to its imposing size, undoubtedly a place of power and thus my next destination.

I jumped off the train before it reached the station, letting myself glide to the ground. A wince of pain crossed my face as I touched down, just before I made my way through a market.

The market was bustling with activity, stalls overflowing with fresh and colorful produce. The townsfolk went about their business, greeting passersby with friendly smiles. Ponies of all races strolled through the streets, adding to the lively and multicultural atmosphere of the town.

I made my way slowly towards the central building, taking the time to observe the town. Ponies went about their tasks, chatting cheerfully, shopping in quaint stores, or sharing stories on public benches.

The hall was vast and bright, though currently empty. I was about to leave when I heard a door open a little higher up.

That's when a gray-maned, pale-amber-coated earth pony emerged from a room.

"Excuse me, ma'am," I began, "my name is Thunder, and I'm looking for someone in charge." I took flight to cover the distance between us.

The mare quickly turned her head towards me, a friendly smile lighting up her face. "I am Mayor Mare, and welcome to Ponyville, how may I assist you, Thunder?"

"Pleased to meet you, Mayor Mare," I replied with a slight smile, touched by the warm welcome.

She inclined her head slightly. "The pleasure is shared, Thunder. How may I help you?"

"I'm passing through, and unfortunately, I've encountered some troubles that have cost me most of my equipment," I lied with regret, knowing that sometimes, it was necessary to bend the truth. "That's why I was wondering if you might have a job for me, or perhaps a lead to get back on my hoof ?"

Her eyes lingered for a moment on my stature, likely more imposing than most Pegasus. With a slightly raised eyebrow, she seemed surprised by my presence.

"You seem to be... sturdy, Mr. Thunder," she commented, her voice tinged with curiosity. "I suppose your skills could be useful in certain tasks."

"I'm just looking to earn an honest living." I said with a friendly smile.

The rest of the day was spent moving crates and various construction materials between the train and the town. I was paid a few bits for my intense efforts and learned that it was best to steer clear of the forest at the edge of the town.

As hunger gnawed at me more and more, I perused the stalls that were closing one by one. Once the ponies were asleep, I would have the opportunity to feed. That's when a vivid-red earth pony with a orange mane caught my eye. He towered over me and seemed particularly strong. His features were marked by a natural robustness, and his cutie mark was a green apple cut in half. An elderly green-coated mare seemed to call out to him, allowing me to put the name "Big Mac" to this pony.

I found myself observing him a bit longer than the other ponies I had encountered in this town, taking my time before continuing on my way.

I continued to wander among the stalls, seeking something to satisfy my growing appetite, all while discreetly observing the other inhabitants of Ponyville going about their business. Gradually, the buzz of the market gave way to the calm of the approaching evening, and the stalls were gradually emptying.

The moment had unfortunately come to replenish my energy. The streets were now empty, plunged into the darkness of the night. Disguised as a butterfly, I silently fluttered towards a slightly ajar window of a modest house, peering inside cautiously.

There, in the room, lay a mare with cherry-red mane and a fur of dazzling gold. She slept peacefully, unaware of my presence. With caution, I landed near her bed, returning to my original form. My heart was racing; I had to control my hunger so as not to harm her.

Opening my mouth with the gentleness of a night breeze, I indulged in the love I so desperately needed, all the while striving to preserve my host's tranquility. To my surprise, my energy intake was less significant than anticipated, and I felt a sense of relief wash over me.

The mare shifted slightly in her sleep, murmured softly, but she did not wake up. As I transformed back into a butterfly, I hoped my presence hadn't disturbed her dreams too much.

I settled on a strangely solid and comfortable cloud to sleep as a Pegasus, closing my eyes and seeking to find rest.

Dawn was breaking on the horizon, painting the sky with a palette of soft colors. I stretched, feeling my muscles loosen after a restorative night. The need to feed was momentarily appeased.

Taking flight, I left the welcoming embrace of the fluffy cloud. The wind caressed my coat, carrying with it the scents of the surrounding nature. It was soothing.

As the day progressed, I found myself busy near the place where I had worked the day before, taking on the same tasks of loading and unloading.

Over the days, I gradually settled into town. I made some acquaintances among the merchants and residents. Each had their own story to tell, and I listened with interest, discreetly blending into this diverse community.

It was surprising to encounter the six ponies I had glimpsed in Canterlot. I had the chance to get to know Twilight Sparkle, though I got along better with Spike, who knew how the books were organized... The unicorn was incredibly intelligent, perhaps a bit too much for my taste. With time, she might uncover my true nature.

A pink pony, one Pinkie Pie, often tried to approach me and organize a party. I politely declined each time, claiming I was afraid of crowds. It wasn't entirely a lie. Being surrounded by partying ponies would require an extraordinary level of self-control ...

In reality, I spent a large part of my free time at the Ponyville library. It was a treasure trove of valuable information that allowed me to prepare for my upcoming journeys. I contemplated getting closer to Doge City to explore the Badlands, a challenge I believed to be within my reach to start. Each page I turned was a new revelation, each map a new horizon to explore.

I saved my bits carefully every day, ensuring not to waste even the smallest resource. In just a few days, I had managed to gather enough to acquire the bare essentials I needed.

As evening fell, I settled near the place where I had worked, enjoying the emerging calm to review my mental checklist. The tent I had purchased was modest but sturdy, offering a safe shelter for the night. My sleeping bag, on the other hand, promised to keep me warm even on the coldest nights.

Each item I now possessed was imbued with particular significance. They represented a step forward in my quest for independence, a new stage towards freedom. I had learned to value every little progress, every victory, no matter how small.

The stars began to twinkle in the sky, and I settled into my newly improvised abode. Sheltered from the wind and cold, I felt strangely at peace. I gazed at the night sky, losing myself in the constellations that shone above me.

Tomorrow would be the day of my departure, the beginning of my real exploration of the world.