Cupid Chrysalis

Chapters

Idea?!
Neighbours
First customer
The start of the life in ponyville
Restraint
Family Matters
Tough Talk
Letters
Chit Chat
Perceptions
Counseling Session
Crystal Empire

Idea?!

The fire roared in her study as Chrysalis looked at her reports of her dwindling reserves of love struck ponies, the source of sustenance for her people. Equestria was abundant in love but she was denied the right, she thought to own it all and feed her children. Slumping against her chair she let out an exasperated sigh.
Then three sharp knocks on her door pulled her attention away. She sat up and put on her regal mask.

“Enter.” she commanded. The door opened, one of her guards let in her dragon assistant Boren, a black scaled dragon with green spines who looked similar to that troublesome Twilight Sparkle’s pet dragon if only a head taller. He bowed his head to her as the guard closed the door.

“Boren where have you been.” She said glaring at him. He simply shrugged off her hateful glare.

“A dragons got to eat.” he said making her look him over again. her horn glowed as she lifted him up bringing her to him.

“Oh hey! What!” he protested. Chrysalis saw jem dust on the side of his face.

“OH for all things dark and unholy I told you to stay out of the treasury we need that to buy off ponies!” she cursed. He looked at her sheepishly.

“If it's any consolation they were divine.” he said smacking his lips. Of all her subjects Queen Chrysalis had under her, Boren was by far the most insubordinate. She calmly removed her read reading glasses and stood up from her chair.
Walking in front of her desk she levitated Boren in front of her.

“Boren...do you know why I keep you around?” she asked dismissively. Boren gulped, just because he could get away with things did not mean that there weren't always repercussions.

“Umm, cause I am a dragon and can send messages quickly with my flames?” he smiled

“Yes...and what else?” she asked nodding her head. He didn't like where this was going.

“My sunny like disposition.” he said with a small laugh. Her eye twitched.

“Guess again.” she said through clenched teeth.

“Cause i'm...very durable?” He said with a uncertain laugh.

“You got it!” she said then slammed him into the ground, his body lay flat for a moment as his tail twitched, he lifted his head up as his eyes rolled around of their own accord. Shaking his head he looked up at her.

“You are more wound up than usual, what is really bothering you?” she levitated him and slammed him into the ground three more times. He put his claw up and waved a surrender .

“Got it. Leave it alone.” she turned around toward the fireplace and sat down sighing.

“It's the food shortage, I am their Queen and they look to me to lead them but if I cannot feed them, what separates me from my predecessors? My mother, hers before hers, and so forth, our species has always struggled to survive. I don't want that for my people.” she conveyed. Boren brushed off the dust that he had accumulated.

“If I may be so bold.” he interjected. She looked at him dangerously but didn't stop him.

“Maybe you're thinking about how to feed your subjects the wrong way…” he said. She glared at him.

“Are you saying every Queen of my line has been wrong?” she said dangerously. Boren backed up holding out his claws out in ephesus.

“No no never! Just your reign has brought us closer to a better lives, but if only we could create love.” he said.

“You just can't create love out of thin air! You have to work at it, Mold it!” she glared at him standing.

“Love is something very powerful, that if done right can yield a power unrivaled even by the elements of harmony, I can lecture you the complexities of relationships and how strangely opposites attract but all it takes is an event and love is created…” she stopped at herself. Boren then looked at her oddly.

“You know a lot about relationships and love don't you. I bet you could give old pony cupid a run for his bits.” Boren said chuckling. Queen Chrysalis’s eyes widened as she looked at her assistant then grabbed him by the cheeks and lifted him up in euphoria.

“THATS IT!” she exclaimed. Boren looked at her confused.

“Whaths it?” he said between his smushed mouth.

“I am going to play cupid, and so will my children! All the ponies in Equestria will have lovers and from their created love my people will never starve again!” she exclaimed. Boren looked at her incredulously.

“How are you going to accomplish that?” he asked putting his claw up in question. She looked at him with a dull look all her happiness vanishing from her face. She dropped him letting him land face first into the floor.

“Why it's simple dear Boren...I shall become a pony and make myself Equestria's number one matchmaker, and for my services, all they need to do is check in with me every few weeks.” she said rubbing her hooves together maliciously. Boren raised his claw then stopped but not quick enough for her not to see.

“What! My plan is genius!” she said growling at him. He jumped back in shock at her eruption of anger.

“I do agree it is a good idea but...it's odd that they would have to come back after a few weeks.” he pointed out. She raised her hoof to laugh and put holes through his logic, but she then realized that it was not going to work like that.

“Maybe you can benefit from not just making them couples but living alongside them?” he suggested. She clenched her teeth and growled at him.
She had never lived anywhere besides her castle, unless she went out to look for large pockets of ponies in love to bring back to her changelings. Chrysalis looked at her subject after some thought.

“I have come up with an idea. We will infiltrate their country but not to invade, just to feed. I cannot take on the alicorn sisters...but I also cannot run away from such a bountiful source of love.” She took in a deep breath and steeled herself.

“We are moving into Equestria to live, just to survive just like our changeling ancestors did before us we shall do the same, but not to conquer to live alongside in secret.” she said finally. Boren's jaw dropped, he quickly recovered himself.

“Bu-but your highness how will you live?!” he asked. She felt bile rise up in her mouth as she said it.

“As a pony.”

Author's Note

Well this is the beginning of a small thing, a fan of the story "A Day in the life of Chrysalis" asked if I could do something so I thought up of this. I will have some fun with it for sure but I will need cannons which people will want to see together.

This is a story about Queen Chrysalis trying to live in secret as well as play matchmaker to ponies and feed of the love they develop for one another. so heavy on romance but eh why not right :D so if you have any ideas please just pm me or comment below

Neighbours

Over the course of the next week she explained and prepared the changelings for the culture shock they were about to endure for their queen. Many were sceptical and many approached her with alternatives that were meer patch jobs for the food problem. Unlike most creatures in her position, she would listen to her subjects as she had come to know them, care for them. Finally the day had arrived where she was to leave her old home.

Chrysalis walked in the throne room for the last time as her assistant Boren walked out carrying a bag full of her effects from her study. He stopped for a moment looking at her then put what he was tasked with working on and approached her.

"Highness?" he asked causing her to jump slightly at his voice. But relaxed as she looked at him. This was not the Chrysalis he had come to know but a more reserved and melancholy one.

"Boren is everything packed?" she asked. He nodded then indicated the small bit left he had just set down to talk to her.

"Just that and we're good." he said. Then he saw something in his Queen that he never thought he would see...hesitation?
"I am doing the right thing..." she said more to herself the Boren. Boren didn't like seeing her so at odds with her choice so he did the only thing he knew would bring her back to her normal self.
"Oh c'mon Chrissy it ain't all bad." he said patting her on the shoulder. One of two things happened in that instant. First were eyes that were once dull embers of her usual personality roared into a firestorm. She hated that nickname. Second her magic acquainted Boren with the ground repeatedly. He laid there for a moment groaning. 'what I do for my queen...' he thought to himself.

"Come Boren I have chosen where we of operations. I'll set up the main headquarters in some bumpkin town outside of Canterlot." she said rolling her hoof in an exaggerated fashion. Boren lifted himself from the ground and cracked his neck.

"The town is called Ponyville, and again why do you want to set up there?" he asked as he went to pick up her things he had set down.

"Because, Canterlot is too close to the Alicorn sisters and anywhere else is too far to reach the outlying cities in quickly. So surprisingly this town is a strategic vantagepoint to set up a network." she said smiling at her own brilliance. He admitted the logic was sound but to see her go from a castle to a small town home was going take some getting use to. As she left the castle doors she was greeted by her guard who came to a crisp attention.

"Your Highness the chariot is ready." Her guard captain said stepping forward and bowed to her.

"Good we must make our way to Ponyville at once and begin our new lives." She said walking past him.

"Yes of course your highness." he said. As she climbed up onto the chariot Boren joined her after packing the last bags.

"Are my subjects split up accordingly?" she asked him. Boren nodded as he reached for a scroll and unfurled it.

"Your subjects have been divided up amongst the towns and cities of Equestria evenly. So when they set up shop in their respective areas they will send word and monthly updates of goings on." Boren said. Nodding she was happy with this. She looked to her Guard.

"Take on the forms you choose, for that will be your identities for now on." she said. He guards shifted uncomfortably. They were use to taking the form of another pony but to come up with one was something of a personal choice. The guard changes as they all became pegasus a multitude of colors and shapes. Her Guard captain had changed to a red coated, black maned stallion whose blue eyes looked stern and uncompromising. His Cutie mark that of a green bolt over a black shield.

"What is the name you have chosen?" she asked him. He looked awkwardly at his cutiemark.

"Bolt Shield." he said as he chuckled. She then focused on herself.

Chrysalis had spent hours trying to come up with a persona she could endure looking at in the mirror. her horn glowed as her form changed to that of a black coated Unicorn with a navy blue mane. She stretched her wings and her Boren chuckled. Chrysalis looked at him vexingly.

"What is so funny dragon." she hissed.

"Oh just the fact you I guess the fifth princess." he said shrugging. she looked behind her at her wings that were also covered but she was now an alicorn which would not do, she focused her magic and her wings seem to disappear.

"Thanks for telling me." she said then brought her hoof down hard on his head making him groan.

The travel to Ponyville was boring as she played with Boren, by play she enjoyed dangling him off the chariot threatening to drop him for his calling her Chrissy earlier. The town came into sight. Chrysalis looked down and she waved her hoof making the group descend just outside of the township of Ponyville. She stepped from the chariot as Boren followed her. Her guard followed her as she began to walk towards her new life... dreading every bucking moment of it.
Entering the town she was greeted by smiling faces, happy go lucky ponies going about their daily lives. She almost vomited. Swallowing her sick feeling, she walked into the town.

"Look out!" came a shrill voice causing her to turn her head slightly.

"Highness!" Bolt Shield proclaimed as he jumped to her, taking the blow of an orange blur followed by a butter cream and white color. Horrified that she had been found out and attacked just coming into town she looked to see her attack her and unleash a world of hurt on whomever dared assault the Queen of the Changelings.

"Ouch..." came a response.

"Scootaloo are you ok?" came a question.

"I'm alive. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle you ok?" She said.

"I'm ok," came a reply. Bolt Shield was tangled in a line that Scootaloo was towing behind her as she had pulled both Sweetie Belle and Applebloom. He looked livid, causing Chrysalis to bit of a laugh. Shifting her gaze to the young fillies.

"Do you just barrel into anypony or is that a targeted act." she said now glaring at the three. They hadn't even noticed her until her statement. Applebloom looked at her and smiled innocently.

"Sorry, we dun usually run into ponies. were sorry." she said giving a puppy dog pouty face followed up by Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo joining in. Chrysalis breathed in and out to calm herself. 'You're a pony who wants to spread love, I can do this.' she said to herself.

"It's alright. But please be more careful, you could of hurt my friend." she said untying him with her magic floating the towing ropes to them.

"I've never seen you around here before, you new in town?" Applebloom asked.

"Yes I am moving in today." she said.

"Is your name Highness?" Sweetie Belle asked. She looked deadpanned then glared at Bolt Shield.

"Y-yes...Highness...Heartstrings..." she said slowly coming up with her name on the spot.

"Oh wow Your name is interesting, what's your cutie mark?" Scootaloo asked as all three of them looked at her flank. The mark was of three hearts one broken one whole, then one stitched together connected by a red string.

"What is that mark for?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"I am a love counsellor." she said quickly as she began to look for an escape she was becoming uncomfortable with the situation and being bombarded by questions.

"Ok ok we need to go and get a place we don't have time for twenty questions." Boren said coming out from behind her.

"OH wow it's another dragon!" Scootaloo exclaimed causing Boren to falter.

"Say wha?" he said.

"You're the second dragon we know first is Spike." Sweetie Belle said. 'Spike why does that name sound familiar?' Chrysalis thought.

"Hey Cutie Mark Crusaders!" came a shrill high pitched squeal as a pink streak came up beside them.

"P-pinkie!" Chrysalis blurted out. Pinkie looked at her with a confused looked.

"Oh hi! I don't know your name or you, but you look like." she gasped.

"A NEW PONY!" she exclaimed.

"Pinkie are you bothering another new pony?" came a question as a cyan pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail floated down beside her.

"Sorry don't mind her she's a bit crazy." Rainbow Dash said. Chrysalis’s eye had become pin pricks, her heart rate had increased, she began to sweat. If these two were here.

"Come on Spike." came another voice. Her most hated enemy, Twilight Sparkle with Spike on her back was trotting by and saw her two friends greeting her. Twilight looked up to her and smiled unknowingly oblivious to who she really was.

“Nice to meet you I am Twilight Sparkle this here is Spike, you're moving into town?” she asked. Quickly calming herself she chuckled awkwardly.

“Y-yes. I am just moving here. This is my assistant Boren.” she forced a smile as she introduced him.

Boren knew all about the mane six and how much trouble they had caused Chrysalis. But seeing how forced her movements were he knew she was in complete shock.

“Yes I am her assistant.” he said proudly.

“Whoa no way another dragon?!” Spike said hopping off of Twilight and landing in front of him.

“Nice to meet you Boren Im Spike!” he introduced holding out a claw. Borens first opinion of the purple dragon was. Pudgy, small, and too energetic. Boren flashed a toothy grin.

“Nice to meet a fellow Dragon.” he said shaking his hand then quickly releasing it.

“I hate to cut introductions shore but ‘Highness Heartstrings’ and I have a lot to do and she has left it to me to get things done, so if you all don't mind pointing us in the direction of the town hall so we may talk to the mayor about procuring a home.” he said. Twilight looked at Spike with a side long glance. Obviously thinking Boren a very good assistant. Spike picked up on it and looked a little steamed but said nothing.

“Oh of course please don't let us stop you. Come on girls let us leave Heartstrings to her things.” Twilight said.

“I have a major thing I have to do now!!” Pinkie exclaimed then smiled at Twilight. Chrysalis and Boren both looked at each other their eyes in a silent understanding ‘nut job’.

The group walked away as Scootaloo and the other cutie mark crusaders waved to her and she gave a small wave back.
After introducing herself and her colleagues to the mayor she and Boren were given a home near the center of town. Her guard each buddied up in homes of their own but Bolt Shield got a home close to her. Borden was leading her as Bolt pulled her things along behind her. Taking one last left turn Borden arrived at their new home. A two story building with a thatched roof with all of the rustic charm of a cozy cottage. Crysalis wanted to die then and there, she had traded a castle for this?!

The inside was just as impressive as the outside, she began to think of turning the living room into a walkin area for her business and soon after Bolt had moved all of her things in he bowed to her.

“I will take my leave.” he said. Waving her hoof dismissively she dismissed him.

“Yes yes.” she said then Bolt turned and crisply left.

Walking up to her room where Boren was unpacking everything and placing them in their respective areas he had planned out. Walking to the window that led out to a small retreat balcony she sat down and looked at the sunset as the large tree blocked the rays. It was beautiful, the moon seemingly suffering the sun so that darkness may come. Then the sound of hoofbeats brought her back to this small town. The noise belonged to a pony who was walking towards the tree. The pony had wings looked up at her and smiled revealing a horn then waved. Chrysalis’s heart sank, as her eye twitched.

“Hi Heartstrings looks like we're neighbours!” Twilight Sparkle said happily. She laughed lightly but slightly hysterical.

“It seems we are…” she said waving back.

'Dear darkness...of all the towns I could choose I choose the one with the elements of bucking harmony.'

Author's Note

lol well had to get her out of her castle but I wanted to see if I could do the transition a little slower but now that she is in the town she will bury herself into her plans to create pony couples! Well if she can truly stomach dealing with the mane 6 who seem to have become fond of the black coated unicorn.

haha well it anyone has a good couple I could start off with? i'm taking suggestions atm so many to choose from. I could choose OC's but that wouldn't work have to build them up and eh a pain so cannon ponies plz XD heck it could be sombraxpie for all I care ill make it work

Ill be as flexible as water

And on another note going to keep this in the time line where The golden oak tree is still there no big ass battle has taken place :P #savethetreeinyourfimfics

First customer

The sun rose to greet Chrysalis with it sickly glow. She squinted and tossed the blanket over her head with her magic choosing to remain in the darkness. Boren knocked on the door and walked in.

“Its is time to get up Your Highness.” he chided

“Leave me be.” she ordered waving her hoof from the protection of her dark sanctum. Boren rolled his eyes grabbing the end of the blanket and with a quick jerking motion bared her to the cold air making her cringe and sit up grabbing the blanket with her magic.

“Boren! I order you to go stack some books or something I need my rest!” she growled as Boren held fast tugging back against her.

“But you have to eat!” he rebuddled. At the mention of sustenance her stomach gave its opinion. Releasing her magic he fell backward and crashed into the wall. She smiled at his expense. Getting out of bed she walked to the Bathroom and looked into the mirror and saw her mane was in going every which direction. Grumbling she picked up the brush with her magic and attacked it.

After twenty minutes of brushing her mane into submission Boren had made her bed and met her downstairs as she walked down the stairs. Chrysalis looked in a mirror before she poened the door and walked out into her new home town. Openeing the door she was greeted by Bolt Shield. he began to bow but Boren cleared his throat.

“Oh right, old habits.” he said chuckling. Her look didnt change if anything she looked unamused.

“Come, we shall see what this town has to offer in terms of love.” she said cringing as she walked past him. Following her at a respectful distance Bolt eyes shifted all around looking for anyone to attack. Boren chuckled.

“Relax “Bolt”” he said. Bolt looked down at the assistant.

“We are in the enemies heart of equestria.” he said quietly. Boren shrugged.

“They don't know us, unlike us pony culture is very accommodating to new ponies unless you do something to disrupt them. Like a wasps nest really.” Boren said casually.

“Oh good Morning Heartstrings!” came a chipper voice as the group stopped. Chrysalis looked to see who the voice belonged to. Twilight was trotting over to her with a smile and her saddle bags over her back. Chrysalis stiffened and then after a moment smiled widely.

“Why good morning Twilight. How are you today.” she said. Boren let out a muffled laugh but was crushed under the the quick glare of Chrysalis.

“Where are you off to?” Twilight asked.

“No where in particular Bolt, Boren, and I were planning on walking around the town to get better acquainted with it.” she said putting on her best smile as she tilted her head allowing a bang to fall out of place which she blew out of her face.

“Oh well I'm not doing anything today if you want…” twilight began.Chrysalis mind rushed ‘what...oh no, no no no’

“NO.” she shrieked. Twilight looked at her oddly.

“I meant no thank you, I tend to go at my own pace and that is why I have my companions with me. I dont mean to inconvenience you i'll manage. Thank you for the offer though.” she said placing a hoof on twilights shoulder. Twilight giggled covering her mouth as she did so.

“Well if your looking for a place to grab a quick snack the clover cafe is always nice its a hotspot for couples. but if you ever need anything im just next door.” she said.

“Likewise.” she smiled again as Twilight began to hum and trot away. When twilight was far enough she levitated Boren.

“W-what are you doing?!” Boren exclaimed. Holding the hoof she touched twilight with out she began to use Boren as a rag.

“I cant believe I touched her…” she said in disgust. Dropping boren when she was done with him he stood up and brushed himself off glaring over his shoulder at her.

“Come, at least the purple Idiot gave me some good information.” she said walking Bolt and Boren looked at each other both shrugging. Chrysalis sighed.

“The Cafe you idiots!” she said making both make a silent “oh” of understanding.

The three of them walked around till the found the cafe it was quaint she thought. walking into the cafe she was greeted by a caramel coated, brown mane stallion who greeted them.

“Table for three?” he asked. She looked at Bolt and Boren then back to the waiter.

“Ill have a table on the patio they will be in a steat two tables away from me.” She said. The stallions looked at her and then Bolt and Boren who simply nodded.

“Well ok... please follow me I'll seat you.” He took them to thieir seats and he gave her a menu which she didn't look at. Boren and Bolt took their menus and began to read the contents on what to order.

“Bring me earl grey with the pot, I'll Be here for a while.” she said not really thinking about it. The stallion nodded and went to get her tea. Now she didn't pay attention to the happenings of her subjects and began to pay more attention to the goings ons of the town. There were two couples already at the Cafe and their affection for one another began to filter into her. ‘maybe this town wasn't so bad after all...’ she thought but it quickly turned sour as she spotted a rainbow streak in the sky.

She spent the next hour enjoying nothing but her own solitude, till he saw the three fillies whom nearly assaulted her if not for the action of Bolt. But it wasn't the fillies who interested her, but a small shadow following after them. A small colt with a brown coat and a brown mane with a green pinwheel hat.

“What do we have here?” she said as she sipped from her gear grey cup. The fillies were talking then Sweety Belle saw her.

“Hey its Highness Heartstrings!” she announced making the other two look and smile. the ran up to her. Thankfully there was a small fence between them and her. ‘thank darkness for small respites.’ she thought.

“Hiya Heartstrings! What chu doin all alone?” Apple bloom asked.

“Im not alone I just like to sit alone.” she said gesturing a hoof to Bolt and Boren who were stuffing their faces with hay fries, causing them to paused for a moment and wave.

“Oh, so what are you doing today?” Scotaloo asked.

“Oh this and that, by the way.” she began to ask looking up for a moment as the little colt stopped and looked at her and dashed behind a bush.

“Do you know any colts that say wear a pinwheel hat?” she asked. Apple bloom looked at the two others. Then realization came to her.

“That would be Button Mash! Hes in our class. Why do you know him?” she asked. she shrugged

“Not really.” They said as Sweety Belle looked behind them and shrugged.

“What are you three doing today.” she asked hoping to drive the conversation to a quick end.

“Oh were trying to get our cutie marks. We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders!” they all said at one and as if rehearsed placed all their flanks together to show them.

“I...see. Well why not go now every chance you waist it's a moment you don't find them.” she said waving her hoofe for them to run along.

“Shes right lets go Cutie Mark Crusaders!” Apple Bloom said excitedly as they began to run away. Button Mash began to run by them as she used her magic to lift him up.

“Where do you think you are going?” she asked. The colt looked around in confusion then her.

“W-who are you!” he asked as his eyes seem to shrink. Chrysalis smiled at the young colt.

“To many I am nopony. But to you Button Mash I am your love counselor.” he simply looked at her slack jawed. She closed his mouth with her hoof and had him sit across from her he looked around uncomfortably.

“I am Highness Heartstrings.” she introduced. He looked at her quickly then away again.

“Would you care to eat something? What do you like?” she asked he was quiet for a moment. She waited sipping her tea calmly.

“I like hay fries.” he said looking down. Chrysalis waved a waiter down and orderd some hayfries for him he ate slowly.

“Sweety Belle.” she said suddenly and his face reddened. She could drink in the young colts love and admiration he had for her.

“Its ok, you can talk to me. My cutie mark revolves around relationships.” she said standing showing him he looked at her now.

“Why would you help me its hopeless she would never look at a colt like me…” he said seemingly already defeated looking down.

“Nonsense, youngone. You just lack confidence. Ive seen many a stallion who are in the guard who suffer from the same fears you are having now.” she said smiling of course a lie but he didn't have to know.

“Really?” he said looking up.

“You bet.” she said giving a soft laugh.

“Could you help me?” he said as his eyes widened in awe.

“I don't see why not?” she said placing her cup down.

“What do i need to do?” he asked sitting forward.

“First you need to get close to her...why not join the cutie mark crusaders.” she suggested.

“I-I tried but every time I see her I get flustered and I can't talk.” he said ashamed. Chrysalis ruffled his hat on his head with her magic.

“Ill be the bridge, but you have to be with me when i introduce you.” she said.

“But, what if they say no, what if, what if they don't like my games? Or my mane or.” he began to ramble. Her eye twitched and closed his mouth with her magic then he looked up to her.

“Meet me at the large tree tomorrow at ten o’clock sharp.” she said as he looked at her. Ne nodded. She waved the waiter over and got his hayfries to go.

“Your really nice, Highness.” he said. she scoffed at him

“Pish posh, just bring your a game tomorrow. and you will be on your way to being able to call Sweety Bell your friend...then maybe one day your somepony.” she smiled. Button Mash beamed as she picked him and his take out and placed him onto the other side of the fence and he smiled waving a hoof as he walked away.

“Who was that?” Boren asked.

“Our first customer.” she said smiling.

“Oh?” he asked. She looked at him with downed lids.

“Pay the bills.”

“Wait what! I thought you brought the money!” Boren said. Bolt walked over.

“Bolt you pay.” Bolt looked confused.

“I didn't bring my wallet.” then there was a clearing of a throat and all three of them looked to see the Waiter stallion with a not too impressed look on his face.

“If you can't pay, we can always work something out…” he said smiling making all of them look at one another.

Boren and Bolt were doing dishes in the back grumbling as they tended to their work. Boren walked a bunch of clean dishes to a clean dish rack then looked out to see Chrysalis.

Chrysalis eyes were half lidded as she moved things as about with her magic, collecting menus then walked over to the front, putting the menus under the booth of the greeting table. The clover cafe’s uniform was tight on her and itchy. The door bell jangled out of her sight.

“Welcome to the clover cafe…” she said looking up and was greeted by six ponies.

“Oh Heartstrings! I see you found the clover cafe.” Twilight said as she was flanked by the rest of the mane six. Only one thing went through her mind.

‘ARE YOU BUCKING KIDDING ME!!!’

Her smile twitched along with her right eye.

“Yes, it seems I did.”

Author's Note

Well that was fun to write so Button and Sweety Belle will be the first targets XD well its easy enough I guess. but I'm looking forward to more fun times

The start of the life in ponyville

Chrysalis body was stiff, sore, and she was in a more foul mood then she had ever been since her crushing defeat at Canterlot. Boren hadn't woken her because he himself was just as tired and worn out. She rolled over and placed a hoof on her eyes sighing. She felt so comfortable there she could simply just lay there all day and not care but she had a prior engagement she couldn't miss, plus she was hungry.

Rolling out of bed she cleaned herself up and walked down the stairs and was surprised to see Button Mash sitting on her living room couch as Bolt sat across from him. Button was looking around her living room that was converted into more of a home office as he nursed an apple juice box. His eyes fell on her and he smiled waving a hoof.

“Hi Heartstrings! Im ready to start the day.” she looked at the clock above her desk. ‘8:12’

“You're early…” she said putting on her friendly mask that crack slightly as her eye twitched. Button smiled and drained the rest of the juice and putting it on her couch as he approached her.

“I couldn't wait. So I went to the tree but you weren't there and then I saw the stallion from yesterday and I followed him then he let me in and gave me a juicebox.” He said smiling up at her. Chrysalis looked at Bolt who looked everywhere but at his queen.

“That's fine, but have you eaten?” she asked walking to the kitchen where Boren was waking up sitting upright in his custom made bed in his corner of the kitchen. Rubbing his eyes and looked up at her.

“Morning, oh hi.” he then said as he saw Button. Button looked at the dragon with hesitation.

"Hello." He responded. Chrysalis guided him with a hoof over to her table as she eyed Boren.

"Boren, make some tea." Chrysalis said as she pulled out her chair and sat down across Button. Button look at her with the enthusiasm only known by the young and smiled. Chrysalis raised a questioning eyebrow.

"How do feel about Sweetie Belle?" She asked only to gauge him. His cheeks reddened as he tapped his hooves together becoming flustered. The feeling for her was a crush which was she needed to get a small taste of the kind of love he was capable of. Closing her eyes she could feel it around him. She chuckled making him look at her with a quizzical look.

"I see you do genuinely like her." She said as Boren placed a teacup in front of her. She lifted it up and began to casually sip. The statement only further made him redden as she began to feed off the small bit of love he was exposing. Think of it like toast with a good jam...she finished her tea and indicated she wanted another.

"How are we going to do it?" Button asked suddenly as Boren poured another cup.

"How are we going to what?" She asked.

"How are we going to get me to be with Sweetie...." His voice faltered as he thought of her. Chrysalis chuckled lightly.

"Love is much like a..." She then tried to think of something to relate to him.

"A game?!" Button said suddenly. Chrysalis raised a eyebrow.

"I guess you could say that. You first must place the pieces on the board then." She stopped as button looked at her with a loss of understanding.

"I don't get it. Is love like my game?" He said then pulling out a device that she had never seen before.

"This is my goy-boy." He said holding it up. She picked it up with her magic and looked at it unsure. She found a switch and turned it on and the small screen came to life.

"Right..." She turned it off and put it down on the table . She looked at him again then began to explain to him in words she hoped he would understand.

"Like a game it has to start and the only way to do that is to interact with her. Best way to do so is to be around her. Not skulking from the shadows." She pointed out. Looking to her clock.

"Its still early but I think we can start out today. Come." She said getting up from her seat. Button hopped down quickly throwing his saddle bags over his back. Chasing after her. Bolt stood up as they entered the room, he quickly made his way to follow behind them along with Boren.

"Bolt, Boren stay here I will be fine." She said but stopped suddenly. They looked at each other unsure.

"Boren get me my purse...."

Chrysalis and Button walked past a few morning couples who nodded to them in greeting. She simply nodded them. After a few quiet moments she saw that Button was looking unsure of himself. Sighing Chrysalis rolled her eyes.

"What troubles you Button." She asked. Button kept looking at the ground as they walked along.

"W-what if she doesn't like earth ponies." He said. She considered this for a moment. 'So race division is still a thing in Equestria.'

"What's not to like about a ...pony" she smiled. She really didn't like ponies and to play matchmaker/ confidant to them sent shivers up her spine. She would have to come to terms with that. But Button himself wasn't a bad colt, full of uncertainty and was much like her subjects. She guessed maybe to treat her "customers" how she would treat her subjects. She stopped Button and came down to his eye level making him look into her green eyes, capturing him.

"If anypony were to not like you for who you are Button that pony is not worth your time. Sweetie Belle is not so shallow as that she wouldn't like a fine young colt such as you." She said. Button held her gaze for a moment and a spark of confidence flickered in his eyes. She stood back up looking down at him.

"Thanks Heartstrings." He said with a broad smile. She simply smiled back and began he walking toward a pink pastry looking building.

"What is that place?" she asked

"That's sugar cube corner." He said. She already didn't like it but she could feel a fully matured love come from it. Finding herself walking into the door she was greeted by a very light blue coated, pink maned mare. Her smiled seemed to cause Button to break into smile at the site of her.

“Hi Ms Cake.” Button said smiling.

“Well hello Button Mash where is your mom?” she asked raising her eyebrow. He chuckled lightly looking round. She looked at him disapprovingly then turned her attention to her. Chrysalis got a perplexed look.

“You must be the new unicorn in town Highness Heartstrings. Nice to meet you i am Cup Cake and.” before she could finish a yellow gangly earth pony with carrot orange mane backed into the room balancing a box of cakes on his head as he also held some in his teeth.

"That talented stallion is my husband Carrot Cake." She finished with a chuckle. Chrysalis inhaled the intoxicating love that the married couple exuded.

"It is nice to meet you." Chrysalis said as she ate her fill. She looked around the warm home/shop.

"Hey Highness!" Chrysalis looked deadpanned as a Pinkie Pie hopped down the stairs. Pinkie Pie hopped up to her and smiled.

"How are you this morning I really had a lot of fun when you were serving us at the cafe." She beamed. Chrysalis internally shivered as she tried to wipe that day from her memories with little success.

"It was my pleasure." She said forcing a smile. Button nudged her leg making her look down at him. He pointed out the door to where the cutie mark crusaders were walking by all smiling talking about how they will get their cutie marks.

"I would love to stay and chat but I must get going I am helping Button with some things he's been having problems with so if you can excuse us." She said as politely as she could.

"Okie doki Loki!" Pinkie said smiling wider than Chrysalis thought pony possible. Walking with Button the CMC saw her and all trotted over to her.

"Hi Heartstrings! How are you today." Apple Bloom said.

"I am great. But I was wondering how does one join your club?" She asked. The three looked at one another.

"Well you have to not have a cutie mark yet." Scootaloo said looking to her.

"And you have to want to help your fellow crusaders achieve their cutie marks." Sweetie seconded.

"Yea but why do you want to know?" Apple bloom asked raising her eyebrow.

"I have a young stallion who wants to join." She said looking to her and Button wasn't there. She looked back and saw him hiding from them still in the doorway of sugarcube corner. Her eyes became half lidded with irritation. She picked him up with her magic bringing him to her side he looked shocked and couldn't move.

"This is Button Mash I think you know him." She said placing a hoof on his pinwheel hat making him snap back to reality.

"H-hi." He said looking at Sweetie Belle and then blushed looking quickly at the ground. The three looked at one another, which they simply shrugged.

"OK your in but you will have to take the oath and you have to get your uniform. Were on our way to the clubhouse now." Sweetie Belle said coming over to grab him by the hoof to pull him along. His face went beet red but didn't stop her.

"O-ok I'm looking forward to it." He said quietly. Button then followed after Apple Bloom and Scootaloo.

"Sweetie." She said to her making her stop.

"Yes?" She asked perplexed.

"Button is very shy but once you get to know him he's pretty outgoing make him feel welcome ok?" She said smiling. Sweetie Belle blissfully smiled and nodded.

"I'll make it my duty to make sure he's happy in the club." She said then quickly ran to catch up with them. Chrysalis chuckled despite herself, she never thought she could come to not loath these ponies but maybe she could tolerate them.

Chrysalis spent the afternoon walking around then after killing a good six hours walking she decided to go home. On her way she stopped as she crossed paths with Fluttershy who looked fairly talkative with somepony. Chrysalis couldn't see who but he was tall. Fluttershy giggled and then she saw her, waves at Chrysalis who waves back with a light fake laugh then the pony or creature stepped out from behind the building.

Now know this nothing can truly scare the great queen but who stood before her smiling warmly at Fluttershy. The lord of chaos himself Discord. Her eyes became pinpricks her lungs failed her, and all of her plans for her people to live in secret would be quickly undone.

"Discord this is Highness Heartstrings. Highness Heartstrings this is my friend Discord. " Fluttershy introduced, but Chrysalis just stood there stunned. Discord looked at her up and down.

"I am not one for forgetfulness but I feel we have met before." He said putting his paw under his chin in thought.

"Well no matter I'll think of it eventually. Nice to meet you Highness Heartstrings." He said civilly. Which was not like him at all.

"Nice...to see-I mean meet you. Nice to meet you. Its nice to see you Fluttershy." She said to her.

"What are you up to today...if you don't mind me asking" she said quietly. Chrysalis raised her hoof.

"I have to head home, I have some paperwork to take care of." She said smiling uneasily as she saw Discord begin to really look at her.

"Well I better be going those letters and things won't sort themselves out you know." She said quickly as she moved past them and trotted away quickly rounding the corner and briskly making it to her home where Boren and Bolt looked up from a game of chess at her as she slammed the door.

Walking to her desk she sat down and sighed feeling like she was coming apart at the seams.

"Something happen your Highness?" Bolt asked placing a piece on the board making Boren frown.

"The fact the mane six live in this bucking town and if that wasn't even enough Bucking Discord also lives here!" She exclaimed.

"He doesn't live here he's simply being reformed by Fluttershy." Boren said like it was nothing. Her eyes locked on him like daggers and she lifted him up.

"Wait..what did I do!?" He looked around surprised. Bringing him closer to her she looked at him icily.

"You thought not to tell me this before hoof...." She hissed as her voice trembled with rage.

"Uh...it slipped my...mind?" He smiled innocently. She lifted him up and with all of her force she was slamming him to the ground when her door burst open and Rarity walked in. Quickly she slammed Boren into her arm and made it look she was giving him a hug.

"Oh Boren you are the 'best'" she squeezed tightly around his neck.

"Assistant ever... Nice to see you how may I help you today..miss..." She paused waiting for her to introduce herself.

"Rarity." She said. Looking at them oddly.

"Nice to meet you Rarity I am Highness Heartstrings what can I do for you?" She said releasing Boren who rubbed his neck.

"Am I to understand you are a pony who deals with love problems?" She asked. Chrysalis looked perplexed but answered.

"Love just needs a spark but I'm not just a match maker I am also someone who helps with relationship problems." She said.

"So a relationship counselor?" She said sitting down beside Bolt who looked uncomfortable.

"Yes I guess I am." She said looking at Boren who simply shrugged.

"Ok that's simply marvelous, I have need of your services." She asked. Chrysalis looked at her deadpanned.

"Come again..." She asked

"I have a problem but have need of a counselor." She said matter of factly.

"Ok miss Rarity what seems to be troubling you." She asked lifting a quill and paper. Then looked at Boren and Bolt with a look that spoke volumes. They quickly left the room and went for a walk outside. She closed the door and lifted her red reading glasses up to her face with her magic.

"Oh its not for me. I can manage but when it comes to my sister I am at a loss to talk to her about such things." Rarity said looking uncomfortable. Chrysalis sighed putting her quill and paper down.

"You want to know what to say to her in regards to stallions? Is she showing interest?" She asked.

"Well I don't rightly know she went on and on about a new cutie mark crusader and how he was a cute boy....she said CUTE! I don't know what to tell her. She's to shy to admit it to him and I don't even know who this Button mash is." Rarity exclaimed. Chrysalis inside did a victory cheer.

"Is your sister Sweetie Belle by chance?" She asked. Rarity looked at her surprised.

"Yes."

"I've an idea of what's going on but not to worry just let them discover their feelings for each other...nothing is more amazing than young love...which I wonder do you have a special somepony?" ?" She said moving the conversation to her.

"Well I suppose so...but what my love life? Couldn't be better stallions are lining up to..." She slowed and stopped as Chrysalis raised an eyebrow cynically.

"Oh OK maybe I'm having some problems but its nothing I can't handle...." She assured her.

"I see, if you ever need something just ask and if you wish it I'll talk to Sweetie Belle." She said nodding. Rarity looked less worried but smiled meekly.

"Thank you." She said standing up. When Rarity left she paused closing her eyes for a moment glad to have the moment to herself.

"Chrysalis...I knew I recognized you." A voice said slyly. Her eyes flashed open and Discord was sitting across from her. Her words failed her.

"What strikes me is that the fact you are now living here." He said as he said nonchalantly. Chrysalis horn glowed but she stopped herself.

"I just want what's best for my changelings..." She said giving up placing her hoof over her head as she leaned back in her chair.

"I had herd rumors but didn't think them true...the lord of chaos reigned in by the princesses. Even I have the decency to just want the best for my subjects. You willingly just cowed to them and all because of friendship." She said then looked at him. Clearly she had struck a chord as his face contorted into a sneer.

"For your information I did this of my own accord. Fluttershy is the nicest pony I have ever known and the fact you are here means you wish to cause trouble. Don't get me wrong I love a good bit of trouble but you have the means of causing a complete hum dinger of a problem." He said appearing beside her with a snap of his fingers.

"So tell me dear Chrysalis. Why are you in ponyville." He asked sternly. Chrysalis lifted him up with her magic making him look at her unamused as she placed him in the seat across from her.

"I'm here just to survive but I have something I want to know now. What are your feelings towards Fluttershy?" She said inquisitively looking at Discord hesitated for only a brief moment.

"She is a great friend who.." He planned to carry on but was cut short.

"You like her don't you..." She said smiling. She had him now.

"What are you crazy...I know I am but what you're proposing is is straight out of the loony bin." He said as he poofed himself into a straight jacket.

“Heres the deal.” she said

“I won't say anything to her if you keep your lips shut about me being here or ill tell her.” she offered. Discord glared at her.

“Fine… deal but if you dare breath a word no magic in Equestria will stop me from getting to you.” He said.

“Duly noted.” she said relaxing feeling that she had some control of her situation.

“If I may interject I have something else you may wish to know about the residence of ponyville I hear stirrings of a new pony who is suppose to be reformed…” he said smiling devilishly.

“What…” she said now looking more annoyed then interested.

“You might know him well I think you had a thing for him a while back...before he sealed himself and his kingdom away.” Discord said shrugging. Her eyes went wide.

“No...not him.” she whispered.

“What did he call you again? Smooky poo?” he said Chrysalis snapped and everything in her office lifted as her magic careened out of control.

“IF SOMBRA IS ALIVE AND COME'S HERE I SWEAR ON ALL THING'S DARK I WILL KILL HIM!!” she shouted angrily.

“Still bad blood I see... well he did leave you high and dry at the altar…” Discord to himself.

Restraint

The morning again greeted Chrysalis but the cloud cover was a much appreciated change. Getting up from her bed she brushed her hair and turned around making her way downstairs and yelped in shock to see Discord sitting at her kitchen table or what looked like him as a pony. His horns and wings were there but his legs were each a different color as his body was red. He looked up at her from a new paper.

"Good morning highness." he mused.

"What are you doing here." She said recovering and sitting down across from him. Boren was already up making breakfast.

"You know its just so boring being around all these goody good ponies its nice to see an...unfriendly one." He smiled. She couldn't help but facehoof at his comment.

"Well now that it seems almost all the baddies that were done in by the dastardly six have come to ponyville...its an odd occurrence some might even say...chaotic." He chuckled as she realized he was reading the newspaper upside down. She rolled her eyes.

"If that bastard has the gall to talk to me I will kill him..." She glaring at Discord. Who's response was to flip his yellow hoof and a cup full of chocolate milk appeared then he reached for it.

"I wonder how pony's do it..." He said flicking his hoof making it produce fingers then grabbed the cup drinking the glass around the chocolate milk as he set the cup shaped milk on the table. Chrysalis always was amazed at how odd he was.

"Tea?" Discord asked. She looked at him raising her eyebrow.

"Forgive me for not taking you up on that offer." She said as Boren placed a teacup and teapot for her to use at her convenience. Discord looked jokingly hurt but smiled.

"I have to say I have missed your company." He said.

"So Fluttershy?" She dropped on him making him almost fall off his chair.

"You said you would keep it to yourself." He said looking at the dragon who shrugged.

"I know everything that her highness knows. I'm her assistant." He said

"I don't think I wish to have this conversation." He said putting his paper down.

"Oh don't mind me I'm simply making small talk. But please tell me what creature has caught the eye of the great lord or chaos himself. " she asked pouring a cup of tea and lifted the cup up smiling at him. He glared as his mind gears turned.

"Its nothing. Fleeting emotions nothing more." He said flipping his hoof hand.

"You were always good at lies but never with me when it comes to matters of love, the only other that can maybe come close to me it that pink puke of a mare cadance." She said as the very name of her was poisonous. He chuckled.

"Still sore I see about the loss." He pointed out.

"You bet your..." She stopped herself and breathed.

"It was a hard thing to endure...I lost many of my subjects that day... Many of my people had died from starvation and..." Her voice was beginning to tremble with rage at the recurring memories of her having to deal with the amount of bodies that had to be buried. She shook her head to clear it of the dark thoughts.

"I have made a sacrifice for the good of my people, what I don't understand is why you have decided to cow to these ponies being who and what you represent." She asked confused. Discord looked slightly saddened.
"Before everything that happened with the wedding you and Sombra were my friends sure we were the defined versions of evil and all things bad but after Sombra sealed himself away and you became a total recluse only looking to save your "children" I got bored and well took over Equestria and well you know how that old song and dance goes." He shrugged.

"I guess having friends is fun and it seems to be an enlightening experience. Sure they don't fully trust me but I wouldn't trust me either. But Fluttershy gave me a chance and well it seems all I needed was a good friend." He chuckled.

"I see." She said pouring herself another cup.
The rest of the morning was enjoyable to say the least but after several tea cups and old reminiscing of the past. Discord said he had to leave saying something about needing a cake for a picnic which she guessed was for himself and Fluttershy. She was just about to leave when she saw pinkie pie bolt past her door as a pink blur.

"Pinkie?" She asked surprised as Boren locked the door behind them.

"Whoa she's fast..." He said walking up beside her. Pinkie then came back stopping in front of them smiling.

"Hi Highness! You and Boren are invited to the party of a new member of who's who just got into town!" She exclaimed in excitement.

"Oh..." She said looking at Boren who simply shrugged. Pinkie then turned facing the way she was originally going and was gone as a pink blur once again.

"I really don't like that one..." She said as her eyes became half lidded.

She and Boren completed a walk around town talking to her guards to see if they had settled in without problems. Which she was pleased to hear that nothing was going wrong. The time the party for the new arrival was at hoof and she made her way to the golden oaks library then knocked on the door. Twilight answered and smiled.

"Come in Pinkie is bringing him here." She and Boren walked in quickly it was dark, to dark as she stood there next to another pony who grumbled angrily.

"Why must I have this blindfold on I am a king!" He proclaimed. Chrysalis stepped away from him a knot of fear and anger as the lights in the room turned on and all the ponies there shouted.

"SURPRISE!" They said as pink confetti and streamers exploded in the room as Boren and Chrysalis looked around in surprise. A banner welcoming them to ponyville. She dropped her gaze to the black stallion in his regal attire and armor pulling off his blindfold in a fit of anger. Pinkie pie smiled and appeared between them both pulling them together.

"Were going to have the best time!" She exclaimed which was seconded by the cheers of the other ponies. As the party got under way many ponies approached her and welcomed her. She politely thanked each one of them as she tried to find her own spot where she could get away from everypony and Sombra. Sombra was being a loner in the corner glaring at the ponies as pinkie pie annoyed him to a point she almost found it worth being there.

Pinkie pulled Sombra up and brought him over to introduce to her. This was something she dreaded.

"Highness Heartstrings this is the "former" king Sombra." She introduced cipperly. Both of them simply stared at one another with deadpan expressions. Sombra was tall by pony standers but she met him at eye level.

"Hello." He said rolling his eyes. She wanted to buck him across the face. Her hoof moved on its own coming at his muzzle but she quickly gained control and stopped it making her look like she was putting her hoof out to shake. He looked down at it and sighed taking it with prompt from Pinkie. She squeezed it making him look at her. Her anger and hatred bubbled over making her eye flicker to her changeling original. His eyes widened.

"Its nice to meet you...Somby." she said her nickname for him behind clenched teeth. Sombra smug attitude dropped as his eyes opened wider and his pupils shrank in horror. Pinkie chuckled.

"Somby?! I like that what do you think Somby?" She said smiling. He didn't say anything the only thing that escaped his lips was a high uncharacteristic squeak. Chrysalis released his hoof.

"I hope your stay in ponyville is a comfortable one... I know I'm not going anywhere." She said smiling cruelly like she did when she would look down on a helpless animal. She wanted to crush him right now....oh did she ever but to save face she looked to pinkie.

"I think he likes that nick name make sure to call him that all the time." she let out a good natured laugh.

She slipped out of the party after an hour and began to walk home Boren was too busy with spike eating cake and what looked like he was humoring the purple dragon. She was about to open her door and a little hoof nudged her. She looked behind her and a pink filly with a small tiara looked up to her.

"I here you are a love pony or something like that." She said pointing out. Chrysalis didn't want to deal with anything but she turned to look down at the small filly.

"I may be..." She said cryptically.

"Can you give me some advice." She asked. Chrysalis raised her eyebrow.

"What is it." Chrysalis questioned.

"I-my friend Silver spoon has a crush on this stupid colt. She likes him but doesn't want to lose face. How would you go about showing him you like him but not letting other find out." She asked. Chrysalis closed her eyes and sighed.

"Your...friend should be kind to him but not to kind...play for his attention but I'll simply say this. If you stay the course of just being aloof and untouchable he won't come to you stallions are stupid...always act on that assumption...you have to literally tell them for them to get it." She said placing a hoof on her small shoulder. Then continued.

"About keeping face...you can't. If you like him enough to change slightly for him...I say slightly never give who you really are. Also ask yourself are you the kind of pony you he would want to know. Say if he's a well meaning stallion and you are a bully and a cheat would he want that." She said as the little filly looked down at the ground.

"Thanks I'll tell my friend..." She then looked up at her.

"By the way I'm Diamond Tiara." She finally introduce.

"Highness Heartstrings." She said as the filly nodded to her and scampered off. 'What an odd filly.' She thought and went back into her home closing the door and made her way to her bed to escape to her dreams.

Family Matters

The next week became a surprising amount of work. Boren began to belch messages from her new hubs from where her changeling subjects were filtering into pony society. A few incidents but nothing that posed to reveal the changeling population. She has also an increase in walk in ponies. Boren was quick to start a booklet for appointments. Her home was becoming more lively then she had ever known really. Pinkie pie was in charge of "reforming" Sombra. Sombra always looked anyplace besides her when she walked out in public he would always make an attempt to avoid her which she appreciated seeing him stirred feeling of rage and pain she rather lock away.

Diamond Tiara knocked on her door. Boren let her in as she made herself comfortable on the sofa. Diamond had been coming more and more frequently and when she asked Apple Bloom and the other cmc about her, they didn't have nice things to say about her. So she found it odd that she was finding a kindred spirit in the young bully.

"Nice to see you Diamond is your friend still having trouble..." She asked.

"Yea he doesn't get it...but that's not what I would like to talk about..." She looked at Boren unsure. Chrysalis looked at Boren.

"Leave us...please." she almost forgot to say please. Boren raised his eyebrow and nodded going out of the door for a walk.

"What is it. You usually are not so apprehensive." She said observantly. Tiara lifted off her small frail crown and placed it beside her.

"I-my friends parents fight a lot...." She started. Chrysalis raised her eyebrow. As Diamond Tiara continued.

"She's use to it so it not bad,like, its always about work and stuff but I, she heard them yelling at each other and she came up in the argument." She said as her eyes started to water. Chrysalis levitated a box of handkerchiefs to her and she took one.

"I-I really feel sad for my friend." she said quickly as her voice was catching in her throat.

"I can tell...she is very fortunate to have such a caring friend." Chrysalis said as he was watching this small filly come apart.

"She said her mom and dad argued about how they should or shouldn't have kept me." She said as her tears began to overtake the tissues. Chrysalis stood up and walked over sitting beside her slowly as she placed a comforting hoof on her shoulder. Diamond Tiara unexpectedly buried her face into her chest. Chrysalis sighed.

"Diamond, like stallions parents are stupid...they often do not realize how much they influence their children." She said looking down at her as she removed her red rimmed glasses with her magic. Diamond Tiara looked up at her.

"Take what they say with a grain of salt... They love you and whatever they say it more to hurt the other...even if they don't realize the area of effect it has." She smiled down at her.

"Your friend will need your support...I've heard that you bully other fillies and colts. But if you tried to be their friend you will be more adept to handling problems that life will throw at you..." She said chuckling. Diamond sniffed and grabbed her tiara looking at it.

"Why is my cutie mark a tiara...doesn't that mean I'm a princess...I should get respect and all should want to be my friends..." She said sourly. Chrysalis smiled and put a hoof under her chin so she could look at her.

"A crown is a weighty responsibility. But respect is earned never given. My mother once said. 'Life as a royal is a long and lonesome road only the respect and admiration of your followers will keep you going the right path.' Or something like that." She chuckled getting a small smile from Diamond. Diamond nodded and placed the tiara back on her head.

"Thank you Highness...your the real first adult who listens." She hopped down and went to the door. Chrysalis opened it with her magic.

"Have a good day Diamond." She said as she waved and left as she closed the door.

"Wow you're good."

Chrysalis turned around and Discord was laying on the sofa eating candy corn.

"How much did you hear." She asked

"Oh not much only the last bit about your mom...who suffice to say died by your hoof if I'm not mistaken." He said chuckling. She rolled her eyes.

"The right of ascension." She said waving her hoof.

"Not that the old bat had good advice." She said walking to her desk and began to read through reports from trottingham. She blinked and squinted.

"Looking for these." He said holding up her reading glasses. She wrapped them in her magic and placed them on her nose.

"Red really does suit you." He said mockingly. She gave an exasperated sigh.

"What do you want..." She throwing her forehooves up.

"Oh I wanted to invite you to a big old picnic down on Apple acres all my friends will be there. We'll mine and company." He said waving his claw dismissively.

"If it gets you out of my mane I'll go when is it." She asked. He looked giddy for a moment.

"Why now of course." He said snapping his fingers and they poofed to where the entire group was sitting. Twilight was sitting beside Fluttershy who was by Button Mash and Sweety belle followed by Rarity then Rainbow Dash, Pinkie then Sombra then Apple Jack, Apple Bloom and finally Scootaloo. They all looked at her. There was a part of her that wanted to strangle Discord to the point where his eyes would pop out like a stress releasing toy.

"Oh Hi Highness. When Discord said he wanted to invite a new friend we didn't expect you of all ponies." Twilight said cipperly. Sombra looked immediately uncomfortable. She ignored him and found a seat close to Sweety Belle and Rarity. Button was acting awkward but was making small talk with sweety belle who was doing most of the talking. Of what they were talking about she didn't know nore really cared. She was handed an apple pastry made by Apple Jack but she politely declined on saying she had a filling lunch which wasn't far from the truth. There were many couples out for a walk that day. Discord was beside Fluttershy as he talked nonchalantly but when she laughed at something he would say he would lighten up and seem to smiled stupidly. He looked at Chrysalis who gave him a smug smile which made him clear his throat as he turned away from her. As the entire group was busy with all of them she closed her eyes and enjoyed a nice green tea then someone sat beside her she opened her eye to see Sombra. She clicked her tongue in irritation.

"What are you doing here." He said under his breath. She opened her eyes and growled hostilely he was unfazed.

"I could ask you the same question." She said levitating her cup to hide her sneer.

"I don't have my magic anymore and well...I was captured. It was this or the dungeons." He said. She didn't know what was funnier his lack of his magic or his capture.

"You got what you deserve." She said sipping her tea. He glared at her with a side long glance.

"I hear you got defeated by these mares." He said trying to get his jab in. She looked at him.

"They were a factor but I almost had all of Equestria till Cadance and Shining Armor pulled off a new spell that has never been seen before to specifically keep out invaders...so I failed because of a miscalculation...you I hear failed because of your brazen act of 'superior' magical talents." She jeered back at him. Sombra gritted his teeth but didn't retort.

"Still slow even after all these years..." She finished chuckling.

"I am sorry." He said, causing her to look directly at him.

"I didn't know that Celestia and Luna were going to attack..." He explained.

"So I missed the wedding because I was fighting for my empire." He said looking at her. She looked away from him and rolled her eyes.

"I am still angry. But I've moved on and so should you...I have my subjects to care for. You now have nothing so just leave me alone." She said taking a sip of her cup. He sighed.

"Also a word of caution Sombra." She placed her muzzle against his ear like she use to and whispered into it.

"Reveal who I am and I will end you..." She pulled away. Somba roboticly stood up walked over then planted himself next to Pinkie who had seen their conversation but not heard the content of it. She looked perplexed. Chrysalis thought of something all to interesting in that moment, and waved for Pinkie to come to her. Pinkie stood up and trotted over to her.

"It seems you and Somby have gotten along rather well." She said, her usual chipper mood slightly soured.

"Oh I was simply giving him advice..." She said smoothly. Pinkie cocked her head.
"On what?" She asked

"Oh I'm not at liberty to say but I can think of a curtain pretty pink pony he might like..." She chuckled Pinkie blinked.

"Oooo do I know her? Or is it a him? Maybe its." She began to go on a rant but she cut her short.

"You." She smiled. Pinkie looked back at him as Scootaloo began to bother him.

"N-nah you pulling my tail." She laughed lightly. Chrysalis raised her eyebrow. Pinkie became a shade of deep pink as she blushed.

"If you ever need to ask a question or have some trouble with him just come to me I think I may know how to deal with him." She nodded suddenly at a loss of words but she made her way back to Sombra but she was a great deal more self conscious of her own feelings for the regal stallion.

Button and sweety began to laugh as they both now had two hoof held goy-boys and were playing together. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo came to them and sat watching them play a game and Button produced two more of the things for all of them to play. Which she thought amazing that he would have that many of the same thing. But she dismissed it.

After the picnic they packed up as the clouds began to threaten rain. Rainbow Dash had also mentioned something about rain planned for the later afternoon. She waved to them as she began to walk home.

Chrysalis had been living there for almost two months now and now she was getting slightly attached to the quaint town. The rain began to fall as she began to run but stopped as she heard crying?

She looked around and saw a sparkle in the gloom of the rain. She approached it and it was a muddied small tiara. She looked around and in the woods she was hiding behind a tree trying to stay out of the rain. She approached her slowly as she was trying to stifle her cries.

"Diamond?" She asked. Diamond Tiara looked up at her and revealed a dark circle under her eye and discoloration on her left shoulder.

"What happened." She asked evenly.

"I..I tripped over a stump." She lied. Chrysalis stepped over her and created a barrier between Diamond and the rain. Pulling her into her chest.

"Daddy had something to drink...*sniff sniff* then mom and dad began to fight.*sniff* But it was different.*sniff* I tried to stop them. But dad was really angry." She grabbed Chrysalis's leg as she shook.

"Come let's get out of the rain. I'll take you back to my place." She said as comfortingly as she could all the while holding back the dam of rage that would consume her if she let it. Chrysalis wrapped her in magic and placed her on her back and walked back to her home where Boren was cleaning up some of the paperwork.

"Where were you?" He asked jokingly but was silenced as her look was grave and angry.

"I didn't do it." He said quickly.

"Not you, you stupid dragon." She said angrily. She walked past him. Boren seeing the filly his eyes widened.

"What happened to her." He asked.

"Never you mind, make something warm for her and tea." She walked upstairs as he hopped to his duty. Entering her room she lifted the filly up and placed her on her soft bed. Diamond Tiara eyes were drooping as Chrysalis placed a towel around her trying her gently. She could see her own children in Tiara, beaten, abused, misunderstood. She would have a talk with her parents as Highness Heartstrings but underneath they would be dealing with one very irate queen.

Tough Talk

Chrysalis woke up and her eyes shot open as a small body was pressed up against her. That's right Diamond had stayed her bed. She heard a soft knock at her door as Boren walked in.

"Is she still asleep" he asked softly.

"What is it." She said evenly. Boren smiled despite the shortness of his queens temper.

"Twilight is organizing a search for her." He said pointing a claw to her. Chrysalis waved her hoof and dismissed it.

"She is safe send for her and bring her parents." She said and as she said so Diamond tensed. Boren turned and left the room.

"Come now Diamond. I know you're awake." She said as Diamond looked up at her. Her black eye looked worse than it did last night since it had time to mature. She lifted her hoof under her chin to appraise the damage.

"You will live. Don't worry." Chrysalis said evenly.

"My dad is going to be mad I stayed away all night." She said shaking slightly.

"Don't worry about your parents. I want you to go with Twilight and get something to eat while I have a civil chat with your parents." She said calmly. Chrysalis stood up and stretched her stiff legs. Her mane was messy and mangled making Diamond laugh. Chrysalis looked down at her and glared making her go quiet.

"Smart. Come, we must get ready for the day. One must look their best." Diamond smiled and hopped down from the bed trotting after her.

After brushing her mane and cleaning the mud from Diamonds tiara. They considered themselves in the mirror and were satisfied with their looks. Chrysalis used a spell she knew to cover up the black eye as best she could you could still see it but it was far less noticeable. As they walked downstairs Diamond Tiara trailed behind her as heated voices could be heard from her living room office. Twilight was trying to calm them but by the sounds of it she was doing a terrible job.

"Please Filthy Rich, Sparkling Gem I don't know why Highness Heartstrings has asked us to come but maybe she's seen Diamond Tiara." Twilight said hopefully.

"Ah yes this Highness Heartstrings who moved in not to long ago claiming to be a counsellor. I do not have time to have idol chat with some pony when my little filly could be out there all alone." Filthy Rich said hostily.

"Oh she is quite safe. No thanks to your own actions no doubt." Chrysalis said walking into the room.

"Excuse me! How rude are you to...to!" He was about to go onto a rant but she raised her hoof decisively making him stop as Diamond walked out from behind her.

"Diamond dear where have you been we have been so worried!" Sparkling Gem said woefully brimming with tears. She went and hugged her.

"I'm sorry mom." She said as she looked up at her father who scowled then smiled looking up at Chrysalis.

"You dare foulnap my daughter!" He accused. There was a lot of things chrysalis can endure. Being talked down to was not one of them.

"You silence your muzzle you cur!" Everypony looked at her surprised.

"I gave this filly shelter when she was alone and afraid no thanks to your own hooves." She growled. She called herself then looked to Twilight.

"I would like it if Twilight took responsibilities for Diamond Tiara this morning while I have a civil conversation regarding the precarious situation you as parents find yourself in." She said coldly.

"But..I." Twilight was about to say but a stern glare at her from Highness understood she had no say. Twilight approached Diamond and Filthy rich and Sparkling Gem began to follow after them.

"I didn't give you two permission to leave." She said coldly making them stop suddenly as Twilight and Diamond left the home.

"Take a seat...I insist" she commanded. Both ponies looked at each other and made their way taking a seat on her sofa as she took her place across from them.

"I have no idea why you have us sitting here when our daughter." Filthy Rich began but she raised her eyebrow as if to say 'i gave you permission to speak? I didn't think i did.' silencing him.

"Now I am going to be so bold as to say your relationship is strained correct." She said removing the edge from her voice. Sparkling Gem eyes darted around and Filthy crossed his forehooves. Chrysalis simply waited till Sparkling Gem flooded forth.

"He never let's me do anything! All I do is cook and clean and be the housewife. I can't stand being cooped up. I want to go out but he's always working..."

"Its not my fault that I have to put food on the table! You and Diamond both get angry with me for not being around enough but I'm home every night I don't get you!" He rebuddled angrily.

"Well if you spent more time with our daughter she wouldn't be so angry and bitter all the time! You know how many calls I receive because she and her friend silver spoon about bullying! 5...5 calls in the last two weeks!" She exclaimed. Filthy Rich grumbled and lashed out again.

"Well if she's causing problems its because her mother is not teaching her properly!" He finished lifting his hoof and bringing it down on Chrysalis's coffee table making Sparkling Gem flinch. Chrysalis surveyed the situation and cleared her throat getting their attention.

"I see you both have deep rooting feelings and I can see the reasoning of both of you but the fact you're so hostile towards one another you both forget that Diamond Tiara is hearing every word...she is most likely lashing out to get attention as its typical of a young filly. Both of you are in deep right now and I suggest you don't see each other for a short period. You two need to clear the air." She said lifting a clipboard and began to write notes and lowered them to look over it at them.

"If you two don't love each other I wish not to get involved when it comes to taking Diamond Tiara away. But if she is bruised and beaten I will take steps to remove her from your abusive custody." She said frowning. Filthy Rich looked at Chrysalis with a look of shock and seething anger.

"What gives you the right to just barge into our affairs!" He exclaimed. Chrysalis fully lowered her clipboard and stood up glaring at him.

"The fact you beat your daughter is one...and I'm sorry to say if you kept that up no amount of money you make will save you from the law of the equestrian government..." She growled making Filthy Rich gulp and humble himself.

"Now where you each stay while during this period?" She said sitting down. Sparkling Gem looked to him and then her.

"I can stay with my mother and father. They are in a place by the river..." She said quietly. Filthy Rich's eyes went wide as sparkling gem stood up with wet eyes.

"Good and after a month I hope you two can begin to date again." They looked at her surprised.

"Do you think I'm telling you its over? I can't say that...you both loved each other once upon a time you both simply have gotten lost and need to find your bearings. It's sometimes easier when you are by yourselves. I will put you both down for one on one sessions with me weekly. If you don't come that's up to you but I'm here to help fix your relationship as well as help you be better parents to a special young filly. She idolizes you Filthy Rich..." She smiled warmly and turned to Sparkling Gem.

"She loves you both very much and I want to see you both get along not because of her but because you want to. A house full of love is a far better than one clouded by resentment and anger." She said sighing. Filthy Rich stood up and faced Sparkling Gem as his eyes misted over and he embraced her.

"I'm sorry..."

"Me too.." Sparkling agreed.

"Diamond can stay with Sparkling Gem for the first week and then she can go with Filthy Rich the next and so on. This is only temporary unless you both desire something else." She said standing.

"Boren!" He sauntered out of the kitchen looking at her.

"Yes Highness?" He asked

"Get them in the schedule for weekly sessions." She ordered and he nodded.

"Please come this way." And the two ponies left as Boren put them into the book and like clockwork Twilight knocked and opened the door Diamond Tiara beside her. Sparkling Gem smiled as Diamond approached.

"How was Breakfast hun?" She asked.

"Oh it was good. Twilight Sparkle knows a lot...about like everything but boys..." She said matter of factly. Filthy Rich chuckled as Twilight blushed with embarrassment. Filthy Rich lowered himself to Diamond Tiara who looked at him with a hint of fear. Filthy's look spoke volumes of guilt.

"Honey I'm sorry. Can you forgive me for being such a dolt?" He said meekly. Diamond smiled weakly and nuzzled her father.

"Ill forgive you only if you spent time with me more." She said. He smiled .

"Deal." He said.

When they finally left Chrysalis began to go through the letters from her changeling's in trottingham, Vanhoover, las Pegasus, manehatten and several others all seemed to be going smoothly with not many problems mainly with finding places to stay. But with letters with gold and orders they were easily rectified. As anything her day was stressful but she finished it with a great relief. Then as she was about to head to bed a knock on her door stopped her.

"Oh for the love of darkness..." She walked up and opened the door and standing there was the oddest sight.

"Can I help you....rainbow dash." She asked.

"Ah no just was wondering if you have time to talk about you know...aww never mind!" She said shrilly and like a kid refusing to eat Brussels sprouts and taking off leaving a trail of rainbow behind her. But a single fluttering photo drifting in the air behind her floated to the ground and catching with her magic it was a photo of her with a blue Stallion smiling sitting at a table Rainbow beside him. A name tag in front of him said Soarin. Chrysalis smiled looking up after Rainbow.

"So the tomboy has a crush..."

Author's Note

Sorry it took so long busy life and shedule and all.

Letters

Highness Heartstrings had gotten up and went for a walk early in the morning which was quickly becoming a habit since moving to ponyville. Most ponies caused her to feel nauseous at how sickly happy they were, but that was how things were. She would grin and bear it for her people. She approached her home which was looking more and more dilapidated. She made a mental note to have Boren begin to do gardening duties but then thought she should hire somepony instead because she needed Boren for many other tasks. She was making her way back home and saw Spike, Twilight's dragon slave leaving the library. It was odd considering dragons always loved to sleep as much as they could, Boren was no different. Spike saw her and waved a greeting before carrying on. Highness smiled forcefully as she waved.

Approaching her door Highness saw her mailbox now had its red flag up indicating she had mail. Her green magical aura enveloped the mouth of the mailbox and opened it. She pulled out several sealed letters addressed to her from several cities and places throughout Equestria as her leaders set up a network to keep her informed on her subjects well-being and proper assimilation into daily pony life. She began to sift through them as she opened the door and read. The smell of food in the kitchen meant Boren was awake and cooking.

“How was your morning walk, Your Highness?” Boren asked looking over his shoulder as he lifted up a hot tea kettle and cup with a ball of herbs. Highness found her place behind her desk and began to opening her letters and reading the contents as she levitated her glasses to her muzzle and mindlessly poured a cup of tea. She finished all of the letters except one that had been sent from the crystal empire. She hesitated but as soon as she was about to open it a hard knock on her door. She rolled her eyes and sighed in frustration, she had so much to do.

“Boren answer it.” She ordered and he walked from the kitchen in a blue apron with writing saying ‘I make great BBQ’. Opening the door a very uncomfortable and fidgeting Rainbow Dash looked left and right before pushing past Boren.

“Yea sure...just come on in.” He said with a half lidded expression. Rainbow Dash looked around as she was looking for something in particular which Highness knew all too well.

“Can I help you Rainbow.” She said placing a paper over her stack of letters.

“Yea…” she said rubbing the back of her neck looking anywhere but Highness Heartstrings. She raised her eyebrow waiting for Rainbow to elaborate on the reason for her visit. Rainbow didn't broach the subject so she would.

“So a fan of the wonderbolts?” She said leaning back into her chair making it creaked. Rainbow looked at her then and nodded looking slightly irritated.

“Yea so what?” She said defensively. Highness didn't want to have to deal with this harsh attitude not to mention she had so much to do.

“Why did you come here Rainbow Dash, I have alot to do, I am a busy pony.” Her green eyes flashed behind her glasses and Rainbow glared at Highness.

“I dropped something. Maybe you have seen it?” She inquired. Placing a hoof on her chin Highness Heartstrings feigned a thought.

“Oh I have no idea what you're talking about.” she said sarcastically. Rainbow could be seen being over frustrated with her.

“Oh you know! My picture of Soren!” She said as her cheeks flushed red with a mixture of emotions Chrysalis herself could taste. She instinctively licked her lips causing Rainbow to back up embarrassed and unnerved.

“So safe to say you came here yesterday to talk to me about how you could get to know Soren?” Highness asked genuinely surprised.

“No...yea...I don't know I just don't get stallions.” She said crossing her forehooves.

“They are easy to understand, yet not. Same could be said of us as mares. But truly I don't know how to help you Rainbow. I'm only a unicorn.” Highness said with a shrug.

“You have magic. Maybe…” Rainbow began and stopped as the look on Highness Heartstrings face showed disapproval.

“Love...real love cannot be found in a bottle of potion nor a book. Forced love is delusion Rainbow, if your feeling for him are genuine they will reach him...if you put forth the obvious signs…” she said placing her hoof on her desk.

“Stallions need an obvious sign that you like them. Some are thicker than others. I don't know enough about Soren as a stallion to say what he is.” She said lifting her hoof and canting it to the side to emphasise the point. Rainbow seemed to struggle with the explanation.

“Keep doing Awesome things and when you see him drop obvious hints that you like him when you see him.” She said and she had the dawn of realization spark in her eyes. Highness Heartstrings magic aura opened the drawer and lifted the picture out and floated it to her where she took it in hoof.

“I hope that helps.” She said and Rainbow got up from her couch and went to the door looking over her shoulder.

“Thanks Highness. You're not such a bad pony I guess.” she said opening the the door and closing it behind herself.

“She's a bit hot tempered.” Boren said stepping from the kitchen. Chrysalis waved her hoof and sighed.

“She's stubborn and brash. But like everything in this country, she longs for love in a way.” She said lifting the paper that she has used to cover her letters and lifted the envelope addressed to her from the Crystal Empire. As she read it her frown became a scowl and put them letter down.

“Boren pack our things and get the Capitan. We're going to the Crystal Empire.” She ordered. Boren stumbled over his feet as he looked at her shocked.

“Your Highness...is that wise? Shining Armor and Cadence…” he began before she glared at him shutting him up.

“One of our kind is locked up and a youngling at that.” she said as her magic enveloped the letters and saddlebag as she began to pack papers, ink and feathers for writing as she would need to write along the way there. In a matter of moments they were packed and leaving out through her door. She saw Bolt Shield standing there waiting for her a stoic guardly focus on his muzzle. She didn't trust anypony but he was reliable.

“We are going to the Crystal Empire.” She ordered. He looked unsure but simply nodded in understanding.

They all began to head to the train station as Highness Heartstrings took point leading them and walked up the platform and paid for three tickets and walked into the train platform. She instinctively scanned the platform and found it empty except for Spike, Twilight, and company. Who all looked at her and she looked at them her eyes shrunk to pin pricks. Why were they here? Where were they going? And over all...WHY NOW!

“Highness? What are you doing here? You going somewhere?” Twilight asked with a smile. Boren looked up at Chrysalis with a smirk. Highness Heartstrings saw this and glared at him. She gained her composure and smiled.

“Yes as it seems I have matters to attend to in the Crystal Empire.” She said with a gesture of her hoof.

“Oh that's where we're going!” Pinkie said excitedly clapping her forehooves. Bolt Shield and Boren looked at one another not liking where this was going.

“That's right, some news of a Changeling bein found.” Applejack said. Twilight nodded and looked concerned for a moment.

“We need to see if Chrysalis is planning another attack in Equestria, also this is a good chance to study changeling abilities, habits, and anatomy.” Twilight said slightly excited.

“You plan on dissecting him.” She said as her eyes flashed dangerously. Twilight didn't register the change in tone in her voice but Applejack did causing her to look at her closely.

“No not at all just like, study his body and ask him questions.” She said.

“We didn't say nothin about it being a boy. Why are you goin to the Crystal Empire again?” Applejack said. Chrysalis looked a the earth pony and met her eye as her insides were twisting with emotions of terror at being found out and rage at the thought of any harm coming to her subject.

“I tend to think of anything as him or her. Don't think I would consider a Changeling anything different than another living thing. I have a friend in the Crystal Empire who asked me to come.” She said to Applejack who didn't seem to completely buy it.

“Why are they commin?” She said indicating Bolt Shield and Boren. Highness pointed to Boren.

“My assistant,” then she pointed to Bolt Shield and continued.

“A little brother who's overprotective.” she said causing Bolt's eyes to widen a moment as Boren stifled a laugh and Bolt Shield punched him in the shoulder causing him to rub his shoulder still chuckling.

“What?” Boren said in ignorance. The Train whistle blew and soon it pulled into the station and a few ponies disembarked and then Highness and her company found seats. Bolt Shield sat across from Highness and Boren sat with his back to Highness in the one booth over. Twilight approached her.

“Mind if we sit with you guys?” She asked. In some way Chrysalis envisioned a random encounter of her somehow being struck by lightning killing her, because that was something she hoped for in this exact moment. She smiled.

“No please, the more the merrier.” She said as Applejack found a spot beside Bolt Shield. As the others found their places.

“So where are you from originally?” Twilight asked and Highness's ears drooped with a half lidded expression. ‘This was going to be a long train ride.’

Chit Chat

Three hours into the train ride that had been terrible. Chrysalis had gotten almost to the point of losing her cool and snapping at Twilight because of her incessant stream of questions. Applejack constantly kept her eye on Highness as Bolt Shield sat there uncomfortable. She wanted to just have nothing but quiet but that wasn't going to happen. Pinkie Pie was constantly talking about something, Chrysalis had tuned her out an hour in only once and awhile acknowledging her with a nod or a smile. Twilight had begun to read a book about Changelings done by Starswirl the Bearded. She had heard of him but didn't care much more then that. This had seemed to calm down before Applejack looked at Bolt and began to size him up.

“So...Bolt.” she began and Bolt looked at her stiffly as Highness looked at her as she faced the window.

“Yes?” he said inquisitively.

“So you are an overprotective younger brother of your sister right.” she said squinting her eyes in uncertainty.

“Yes, Highness and I are family through marriage. I have been with her for many years.” he elaborated on the made up lie Chrysalis had begun.

“Yea so where are your parents?” she probed.

“Dead.” he said simply which caused her to stop cold for a moment.

“I can understand where you're commin from sugarcube. Mah parents also have passed on.” she said in a moment of surprising revealing. Bolt had lost his parents in a conflict with a skirmish with griffins that much Chrysalis had known. But the Changelings were one large family so losing your birth parents was a sad occasion but able to be bared through because of the support of others.

“I'm sorry to hear that.” Bolt said seemingly to sofen to her. He smiled and looked at Highness then back to Applejack. Highness looked out the window at the passing foliage and countryside.

“But then that is what makes you an element is it not? You do your best and may be a little rough around the edges...but that's because you have to look after your family.” Bolt said seemingly out of nowhere. Highness looked at him and smirked and refocused on the outside of the train.

“Yea thats exactly right.” Applejack said as she was about to say something else Pinkie Pie bounced over. Causing Highness and Bolt to look at her.

“Applejack I need you for something!” Then she looked at Highness Heartstrings.

“Can I borrow your assistant?” she asked. Highness Heartstrings looked at Boren who shook his head vehemently. Highness looked at Pinkie with a smirk.

“Please don't mind me go ahead.” she said and Pinkie grabbed Boren before he could say anything in his own.

“Come on Spike!” She said and Spike grumbled as he followed them as she led them into the next cart and out of sight. Highness wondered what she could be doing but she dismissed it. She instead refocused her attention to Bolt and how he had began to confide in Applejack.

“So Applejack huh?” She said with amused smile. Rarity's ears perked up as she began to listen in.

“You like her?” She said

“It's not like I don't like her.” he said stoically.

“No need to be so stiff Bolt” she said emphasising his name.

“You would have a better time courting an apple tree darling.” Rarity chimed in causing both to look at her. Twilights eyes blinked as she looked up oblivious to the conversation up till now.

“Wait what?” Twilight asked before Rarity hopped down from her seat and found the spot next to Bolt.

“I was just saying when it comes to things like love and relationships with a stallion Applejack is hopeless.” She said with a wave of her hoof.

“Oh gossip is it?” Highness said as she slightly fixed her gaze on the white unicorn.

“Oh yes, I've tried but she is just completely oblivious.” She said.

“And what about you Rarity, Twilight…” she said looking at both of them as she said their names then turned her gaze to Fluttershy.

“Fluttershy.” She finished with a sultry tone.

“Oh um..I...I don't know.” Fluttershy said before Rarity cut in.

“I know my way around relationships.” Rarity said with some pride with almost made Highness burst into laughter.

“Truly?” Highness said letting out a hit of sarcasm that caused Rarity to frown. Twilight looked at Rarity perplexed.

“I thought your only thing was for Prince Blueblood.” She said causing Rarity to flush in anger at the mere mention of his name.

“That primp Prince is all about himself!” She exclaimed.

“What about you Twilight.” Highness asked Twilight reddened slightly but shook her head.

“I'm to busy with the princesses studies and foiling problems that arise from all over Equestria.” she explained.

“I guessed as much, Fluttershy?” Highness's turned her attention to her as Fluttershy made an effort to hide her face in her mane.

“Oh um I….” She mumbled.

“I wonder how you are able to have a conversation with Discord…” Highness said and all of them besides Bolt looked at her slack jawed and shocked. Fluttershy was the first comment quickly.

“How do you know Discord?” She asked. Well she couldn't say because they were old Frenemies.

“He mentioned you is all.” Highness said

“When did he meet you and why?” She asked suddenly more boldened. Chrysalis could taste it, the bloom of budding affection that was in the early stages of something more. Highness Heartstrings smiled and shrugged.

“Not to long ago and who knows why.” She said with a mischievous smile. Fluttershy found her seat again and looked like she was blushing deep in thought. Rarity looked at Highness frowning.

“What do you do again dear?” She asked.

“I am a relationship counselor, some say a love therapist.” She said with a chuckle. Twilight looked up at her.

“Do you know anything about Changelings?” She asked suddenly and Bolt looked at Twilight suddenly suspicious before Highness answered.

“I've heard of them and find them a fascinating species, considering they live off of love.” She said with a nonchalant gesture of her hoof.

“What is your take on them?” Twilight asked.

“Misunderstood.” She said immediately which caught Twilight by surprise.

“How do you believe that dear?” Rarity asked with a quizzical look. Bolt looked at his queen unsure.

“We don't know why they attacked, it could be because of loathing; yes, maybe initially could be because of this but more importantly their food source is love so where do you think love is most abundant? Would you not want the best for your subjects?” Highness said.

“Their “queen” impersonated my brothers wife and nearly took over Canterlot so you should see why I'm skeptical.” Twilight said with a half lidded expression.

“Besides they are hideous to look at.” Rarity said with disgust look at Twilight who looked at her friend agreeing with a grossed out face. That caused the hair on the back of Highnesses neck rise as her eyes flash emerald green with cat like irises before returning to normal. Bolts eyes were the size of pinpricks darting between the two ponies and his Queen who was clearly livid. Highness was about to speak before she was cut off.

“I don't think that's fair. Highness Heartstrings is right we don't know what could be controlling her actions.” Fluttershy interjected causing everypony to look at her and she suddenly closed in on herself.

“You..know...if..it's..ok ..to think like that.” She said quietly. Highness reigned in her emotions before finding her civil voice.

“Fluttershy, I am glad that at least somepony is not so closed minded about other species. I'm sure the griffins also have a colorful past but you don't treat them any different.” Highness said. Twilight looked slightly guilty then as she thought a moment her eyes widened and she looked at Highness with an apology.

“Since you are so good at being neutral how about you accompany us to see the Changeling prisoner. I'm betting you could learn something about love from it.” Twilight said. Highness was speechless for a moment, she had her way in.

“I-I am speechless. I would love to help you. My appointment isn't for a while anyway.” Highness Heartstrings said with a smile. She looked at Fluttershy who looked up at her with a small smile and a nod. Highness returned her smile, maybe she was a good ally to have, she understood why Discord liked her.

Just then Pinkie burst in with Applejack, Rainbow, Spike and Boren. Boren was in a dress and spike was in a tux. Highness was about to ask.

“Don't! Ask!” He said angrily as Rainbow laughed so hard falling over at the look on their faces.

“Twilight are we having a party when we get to the Crystal Empire?” Pinkie asked with a smile. Twilight frowned and shook her head unsure where she was going with this.

“No I don't think so why?” Twilight inquired.

“Well there's a large group of ponies waiting for us as the station.” She said and Highness looked out the window at the beautiful Empire and sure enough the platform was guarded by several guard ponies with Shining Armor and Princess Cadence standing there waiting for the train. Her heart nearly stopped. ‘Oh buck me.’ She thought.

Perceptions

The guards bowed to Shining and Cadence as they walked in through the doors. The lobby that greeted them had stairs going up both sides as two halls lead off right and left. Boren began to salivate as he looked at all of the crystal. Spike smiled at him and chuckled placing a claw on his shoulder.

“I'm kind of a hero round here ever since I defeated Sombra.” Spike said confidently.

“What does that have to do with me being hungry.” Boren said with a hint of annoyance.

“I get all the gems I want, interested?” Spike said with a sly smile. Boren looked up at Highness and knew it wasn't his place to ask but any other time he wouldn't get away with asking.

“Highness, do you mind if I go with spike for a bit?” he asked. Highness looked down at him and felt a twinge of annoyance for his use of the situation to get what he wanted.

“Of course but please come back here after, I will need you.” she said with a hint of emphasis. Spike looked at Twilight and she simply nodded and the two dragons took off out of the doors they entered in.

“Spike will look after Boren. No need to worry.” Twilight said full of confidence. Highness had no worries that Boren wouldn't do anything to expose her, but still she didn't last as long as she has by completely trusting anyone.

“We will go see the prisoner.” Shining armor said as he lead the mane 6 and Highness down the left hallway and through an archway that lead down a spiraling staircase. The walls were lit with magical torches that gave off an eerie blue glow. The cells were all but empty, two guards ponies were standing in front of a barred cell that housed the changeling prisoner.

“We didn't know if there were more, so we did some interrogation. But came up with nothing.” The left guard said. Applejack looked over at the cell and frowned.

“Where is it then?” she asked as the ponies all looked. To the untrained eye it would look like there is nothing in the cell but Highness saw immediately. Then the guards pony horn glowed and the cell bars glowed and a small rock burst into flame and exposed the changeling laying on the floor battered with her left eye swollen almost shut.

“Tries to hide, but it cant escape.” he said. The room became dark as the lights dimmed and everypony looked around unsure as to what was going on. Twilight looked around and saw Highness Heartstrings eyes wide and her horn glowing as her eyes began to give off purple wisps of energy she had only seen twice before, one with princess Celestia demonstrating dark magic, and king Sombra.

“H-highness?” Twilight said stepping back. Highness eyes locked onto hers and Twilight's ears flattened. The Guards ponies quickly put themselves between Princess Cadence and Highness Heartstrings. A small voice in her mind burst forth with reason though she was anything but logically thinking. ‘You have to see to it, every changeling is safe. Don't lose your cool here, you've come so far.’ Highness took in a deep breath and looked forward.

“Please tell me.” she said sharply before looking at Cadence as her eyes began to return to normal.

“How did you feel when you were held captive by Queen Chrysalis? I’m guessing you felt afraid, alone, and helpless.” she said now walking to the bar door.

“Can you put yourselves in this creature's position and see what you have done is nothing short of cruel.” Highness said in a tone that spoke levels of varying emotion.

“You are talking as if it's just another pony, but it is a changeling. We don't know if there is another invasion being planned we can't risk it.” Shining Armor said stepping forward.

“We must put the good of the ponies we serve above our feelings.” Cadence said finding her voice.

“What was that all about anyway? Your eyes had purply stuff, you looked like you were going to go evil there for a minute.” Rainbow said as she hovered above the group. Highness took in a breath and looked at all of them. Chrysalis thought a moment and made sure to choose her words wisely saying the changeling was a ‘she’ could raise suspicion that she knew more about changelings then she let on.

“I have studied changelings as you know. I know that the changeling you have in your ‘care’ is nothing but a teenager, just out of fillyhood. Now tell me if you saw Scootaloo like this Rainbow, what would you feel?” She said and looked to Applejack, then the others in the room.

“Applebloom, Spike, Angel, Sweetiebelle, Gummie, Shining Armor…..or even.” She finished by looking at Shining Armor.

“Princess Cadence.” she said with a final jab. They all were quiet a moment.

“What is this Changling to you, what is your relationship?” The guards pony asked, ‘this pony was to sharp for his own good’ she thought.

“I am a pony who specializes in putting themselves in another's hooves so to speak. So I change my perception of the world around me based on the subject.” She finished. The room was quiet a moment.

“I think i’d kick the buck out of anypony who had done this to Applebloom.” Applejack said finally. The rest of the girls seemed to share the same train of thought when Cadence finally spoke up.

“I can understand the thought but that thing in there is not a pony we know or care about. Queen Chrysalis would never let one of our kind out why should I try and put myself in the hooves of this creature.” she said slightly heated.

“Then ask yourself. Are you Queen Chrysalis?” she asked simply. Cadence blinked and her eyes shifted looking for an answer before, Highness stepped towards her and looked at her. Cadence eye locked onto hers.

“You are not Queen Chrysalis. You are Princess Mi Amore Cadenza of the crystal kingdom a benevolent ruler who shows kindness to all.” Highness said with a soft smile that made her own insides turn. Cadence’s eyes watered as she began to sob lightly as she turned into Shining armor and used his shoulder.

“Be that as it is we can't just release the changeling.” Shining Armor said looking only slightly less willing.

“Put her into my care. I have need for research when it comes to changelings so it could serve me well besides has it broken any laws?” she asked

“No as far as we know it's not broken any laws. But if it's in your care we will put a tracking crystal on it.” He said with a cautious tone. Highness knew it was the best she could do with the current situation she was in.

“I wouldn't have it any other way. How else am I supposed to tell it from other ponies.” she said with some understanding. Shining looked at the Guard pony and nodded. The guard retrieved a collar and opened the door, advancing on the changeling lifting her head and placing the collar on her neck. She moaned slightly as he put her head down again. Highness Heartstrings walked in and her magic enveloped the changeling and lowered her onto her back. Highness walked out of the cell and the mane 6 began to leave the dungeon. Highness looked at Cadence who had recovered and was discussing something with Shining when she looked at Highness.

“I would understand if you don't wish for me to help you with your situation.” Highness said trying to weasel herself out of being a marriage counselor for Cadence and Shining Armor, Cadence shook her head and smiled.

“No if anything this shows that you're the kind of pony we need to see ourselves through our...situation. Can you fit in a session maybe tomorrow?” she asked and Shining Armor looked uncomfortable. She looked at both of them and focused on Cadence again.

“Ill see what I can do I should be….free. Ill leave this one with Bolt, my confidant.” she said before she walked up the stairs bent on leaving the castle as soon as possible.

“Where are you staying?” Cadence asked as she trotted up to catch her.

“I think I'll stay in a hotel.” Highness said without a thought.

“No you're a guest you have to stay in the castle. I'll have a room made for you and your cohorts.” she said immediately and before Highness Heartstrings could interject the guards were off to get the staff to have everything prepped.

“Bolt has a fear of spires so he won't stay in the castle.” She said quickly and Cadence waved her hoof.

“No need to worry I'll pay for a place for him to stay. You are our guest and Twilight's friend.” She insisted. As they reached the main hall she was steered to an open room with a patio and her bags were already . The bed had large pillows. A door on the side lead to another room that had two beds, she guessed for Boren and the changeling on her back. She walked into the room and lifted the covers and changeling up simultaneously, tucking her in. She also noticed the room had no exits. Trading one cell for another it would seem. Highness Heartstrings closed the door as Boren walked into the room to see Cadence was on the patio and Highness approached her from behind. A small voice inside her head said ‘push her off’ but she abstained from indulging her inner desires.

“I haven't say this to anyone but I'm tired. Running a kingdom is just...heavy.” she said struggling to put her feelings into words. Highness simply stood there beside her quietly listening. Cadence looked at her.

“Please come to dinner. It would be rude of us to simply house you and not feed you.” she said with a smile.

“I would love to but I have certain dietary needs so I must decline. But I will see you tomorrow.”

“It’s funny really I miss talking to someone about my troubles, Shining Armor is always busy with looking after our borders and well Princess Celestia is even busier than I am. I don't know how she does it.” Cadence confided.

“There are times in this life of ours that are trying, but i'll give you some advice my mother once told me. ‘Love, tolerance, and...coping... these are three tenets I was told make a good leader. Love those close to you, Tolerate those you must work with for the betterment of your subjects, cope with what you cannot fix.” Highness explained, but that was only a half truth what her mother had actually said was ‘Love those close to you, Tolerate some, Destroy those who defy you.’ it was effective.

"That is sound advice. I'll see you tomorrow.” she said walking from the balcony and leaving, Boren opened the door and stepped aside for the Princess. He closed the door then turned to her still having gem dust on his face and claws.

“So...how are you feeling crashing at your ex’s?” he asked. Her eyes narrowed and his eyes widened.

“Oh no…” was all he said before her magic picked him up and began to slam him into the ground repeatedly. After a minute of that Boren stood up his eyes spinning before he shook his head.

“I hate to ask this now… But what do you plan on doing to fixing your mortal enemies marriage?” He wondered. Highness Heartstrings slumped onto the floor and a pillow shot from the bed into her hooves and she pressed her muzzle into the pillow and screamed.

Counseling Session

The night was clam as she found she could not sleep. Chrysalis standing on the balcony of the crystal palace brought back memories of a time she was young and in love with Sombra. She crushed that memory with a thought as she turned toward the room again. Boren was asleep at the foot of her bed on a pillow and she walked past him not giving him a thought but she entered the room where the changeling was now staying and opening the door the bed sheets were thrown back and the changeling was missing but she chuckled as she picked out a shaking teapot.

"Come now, little one." she said calmly as she closed the door behind her and cast a spell of sound cancellation to negate all sound or allowing anyone to enter. The adolescent changeling burst into flame as she transformed back into her battered and bruised form which again caused Chrysalis's eyes to flare with purple dark magic but it was gone as quickly as it had come.

"Wh-where am I?" She asked as she looked at Highness Heartstrings.

"Still in the palace but under my care. You would do well to listen to me if not for your savior but for your queen..." She said simply as her skin crawled with green flame as she assumed her natural form. The changeling looked at her in awe then after a moment fear.

"Why do you show fear infront of me?" Chrysalis asked narrowing her eyes at the your changeling.

"I-I have put the plan for assimilation in danger of being discovered." She said looking down ashamed. Chrysalis chuckled as she approached the young one.

"What is your name?" she asked

"Glasswing" she said humbly as Chrysalis noticed she had given herself a pony name. Placing a tender hoof under Glasswing's chin she made her look up at her.

"You must be hungry...." she said in a motherly tone as she sat down and pulled her battered body against her chest as her mouth opened slightly as she began to sing a song that conjured a string of pink tendrils of energy that left her chest and enveloped Glasswing in an embrace. The pink energy flowed into Glasswing's mouth softly. Glasswing shuddered as she drunk deep the essence of love from Chrysalis and after several minutes Glasswing's wounds and bruises had fully healed. Chrysalis smiled at her as 'daughter' smiled back at her then unceremoniously gave a small burp. Glasswing blushed awkwardly as she smiled.

"Now...little one they know who you are and for that you cannot hide from them. So as it stands we must be cautious, I am known as Highness Heartstrings... call me by that name and that name only or it may raise suspicions." She explained as Glasswing nodded vigorously.

"Ill do my best." she said confidently.

"Good." Chrysalis said curtly as she stood up and moved towards the door as her body flared with green fire and retook the appearance of her black coated green maned unicorn ponysona.

"Get some sleep now. I will have you accompany Boren in the morning." Highness said as she undid the magic seals and opened the door. She gave a glance back to see the little changeling was crawling into bed and she gave a small smile as she let a small bit of power glow on her horn as she cast a simple nightlight spell that was a dim green that would last till daybreak. She closed the door behind her and turned to her own bed and saw that Boren was still asleep on his cushion. She collapsed onto her bed and pulled her covers over her form, feeding Glasswing had taken alot out of her, there was more damage to her then at first glance.

The morning sun woke her and then a banging on her door made her give a low guttural growl that would befit an Ursa minor. Boren stood up and walked to the door and opened it to see the smiling face of Twilight. Oh how she loathed mornings but even more so was being woken up by somepony else.

"Morning I was hoping you would join us for breakfast." Twilight said as she opened the door further causing Boren to take three steps back and saw that she was still in bed.

"Oh Im sorry I didn't know you were still asleep." She said with a note of apology. Highness Heartstrings lifted the blanket from her slender body and placed her hooves on the floor.

"I am awake now. Please give me five minutes to get ready." She said as she looked to a mirror and saw her mane had major bedhead.

"Of course." Twilight said as the note of apology was quickly replaced with a happy attitude as Boren waved his claw in her face as she was shooed out and then closed the door. Highness stood up and walked towards the mirror and levitated her hairbrush and began to untangle her mane as she sat down on a pillow. A knock on her window caused her to stop and then with a cast of her magic the latch opened and Bolt walked in closing the door behind himself and gave a bow.

"My queen I have news." he said calmly.

"Capitan Bolt I do hope it is this early in the morning." she said crisply.

"The group of changelings her have acclimated well but the family of the one simply known as Glasswing is distraught with worry and have no Idea what has happened to her." He reported. Highness looked at Boren as he was about to lay back down on his bed and Raised and eyebrow without a word. Boren was about to lay down and saw his queen and stopped.

"Boren, please get Glasswing." she ordered and with a grumble under his breath he turned to go get the small changeling.

"You have her in your custody you Highness?" he exclaimed surprised.

"Ye of so little faith." Highness cooed simply as Boren opened the door and after a moment the black chitin of her body glistened in the morning sun, her eyes were the standard blue and her mane was a leathered red hue. Glasswings wings were what really caught the light and created a kaleidoscope of color because of the protective coating that changeling wings had.

"M-morning...Highness." she said with a bow of her head.

"Good morning little one. I would like to introduce my Capitan. Bolt." she introduced as Bold nodded to her in greeting.

"Your highness is this wise? Looking after her will bring more attention to you then I would like." He said unsure and was answered with a light hearted laugh.

"I will be fine. But relay to her family that she will be in my charge till further notice." She ordered and Bolt bowed in acknowledgment as Highness finished brushing her mane to the way she liked it. Highness stood up then and began towards the door.

"You are dismissed." she said simply and with another bow Bolt left the way he came.

"Well hate to ask...but have you thought about what you are going to do about the session today with Princess Cadence and Shining?" Boren asked as he opened the door.

"Ill cross that bridge when I get to it." she said through clenched teeth. She left the door and looked back to see Glasswing hesitate to follow her.

"Come now." she said calmly and Glasswing didn't hesitate further as she followed her.

"Boren what do you plan to do today?" Highness asked as they made their way towards the dining hall.

"I was thinking taking her to the library or maybe just out into the gardens." Boren said simply.

"Don't allow anything to happen to her do you understand?" she said and Boren nodded simply as she turned to Glasswing.

"You as well don't simply take any abuse....be proud of who you are." She said confidently and Glasswing nodded with a look of misery.

The door to the dining hall was guarded by two crystal pony guards who eyes the group suspiciously as they opened the doors for them. Highness made a note of that and walked into the room everypony was there save for Rarity and Spike. The room became silent as all eyes turned to Glasswing. Highness ignored the silence and found herself a seat as Boren jumped up into the seat next to her followed by a timid Glasswing who sat on Highnesses right and begun to sing slowly into her seat wanting to hide. The pregnant silence was breached by Pink party pony who smiled at her.

"Whats your name? Im Pinkie and this is...." she stopped and took a large breath and then with rapid succession slammed out the names of everypony.

"TwilightSparkleApplejackRainbowDashPrincessCadenceShiningArmorFluttershy" she stopped briefly to catch her breath.

"And Rarity and Spike will arrive in three two.....one" Pinkie counted down and the doors to the hall opened again to admit Rarity and Spike.

"How does she do that..." Twilight asked baffled as Rarity and Spike took their seats, Spike beside Twilight and Rarity next to Fluttershy.

"I-I'm G-Glasswing." she said quietly.

"What will ya eat I thought changelings only eat love?" Applejack asked and Glasswing looked at her then up at Highness who only nodded.

"Well we can eat normal food...but that wont sustain us." She said simply.

"what do ya mean? If ya eat food then why did ya invade canterlot? " Applejack asked and Highness thought to herself that Applejack was going for the throat.

"Um...I...I don't..." Glasswing began to say.

"As I understand it." Highness interjected as everpony looked to her.

"Eating food over eating love is like eating dry bread and water over a full meal as royalty." She stated

"Am I correct" she asked as she looked down at Glasswing who simply nodded.

"You were a lot more...banged up when we last saw you." Spike said as if he was broaching a touchy subject.

"You are not wrong." Highness agreed.

" I felt that she would be hungry after being starved for so long and so I Gave my love to her." Highness said simply and that drew frowns and looks of confusion from the rest of the table.

"How you give love is simple, just open yourself to have the changeling in question feed." Highness explained calmly.

"W-well I am glad to see that our blunder was so easily rectified." Cadence said and Highness looked at her with a blank look on her face. 'I'll have to talk to her later about that.' she thought to herself.

"Well...who's hungry?" Shining Armor said breaking through the discussion.

Breakfast was a simple affair and not long after that everypony began to get up and meet at the end of the table. Highness looked at Twilight who had been casting glances at Glasswing all breakfast. Twilight looked up at her and smiled sheepishly.

"How are you?" she asked and Highness waved a hoof.

"If you want to talk to her then just go. Boren will be taking her around today as I do some work and I think He would not mind the company. I would consider this a valuable learning experience." Highness said with a smile. Twilight nodded.

"Your right...of course I just feel uncomfortable around her." Twilight confided.

"If your feel uncomfortable imagine her...she's surrounded by pony's who not that long ago had her imprisoned." Highness said with a raised eyebrow.

"Fair point." Twilight seceded and after a moment she straightened her posture and strode over to Glasswing who was standing by Boren.

"You are amazing." Came a male voice as Shining Armor stood beside her. She felt her heart quicken as her blood raced.

"O-oh I do what I can." she mentally gave herself a shake and then looked at him.

"But I think we should move onto your problems." She said simply and now Shining Armor looked uneasy as Cadence walked up beside him and he looked to her then down at the ground.

"Ill see you both in my room in a half hour." she said as she walked off. a small smile on her face. It felt good to make him feel uncomfortable.

Highness Heartstrings saw in a chair that was provided when asked for as well as a soft loveseat across from her with a coffee table between the two. Her bed had been made in her absence during breakfast and now she opened the door to the balcony. A soft knock on the door and it opened admitting Cadence and then Shining Armor.

"Please come have a seat." she offered as the two found a seat on the opposite sides of the loveseat. She took notice of this but said nothing. Her horn glowed and the room simmered in a sound nullifying field.

"What are you doing?" Shining Armor began in alarm.

"All my sessions are confidential so we cant have anypony else overhear our sessions." She said simply and Shining Armor relaxed only slightly. She found her seat across from them and lifted her red rimmed reading glasses over her muzzle and looked at them. She could kill them right here and now and no one would hear. But she pushed that thought aside.

"So...what seems to be the problem?" Highness asked simply and Cadence was the first to speak.

"He wont tell me what happened between Chrysalis and him when I was imprisoned!" she exclaimed and Shining Armors face fell and Highness Heartstrings Heart stopped.

Crystal Empire

The train began to slow as it pulled into the station. Hissing brakes followed by the shake of the trains halt shook her from her slight shock. The mares began to put on their saddlebags and moved to the exit ramp located in-between the train cars. Bolt looked at Highness Heartstrings and he looked on edge.

“Calm down.” She said with a glare. Boren had quickly torn off the dress and wiped away lipstick and eyeshadow. She did think for a moment that the colors chosen had suited him. She walked behind the group and every butterfly that had began to flutter in her stomach. Another reason she loved to deceive others was for the thrill of being caught. Twilight finished with a hug and greeting as Highness Heartstrings approached. Many ponies looked at her for her odd black coat as well as standing a head taller than most.

“This is a friend of ours Highness Heartstrings.” Twilight introduced her to ponies she knew all too well. Shining armor in his white coat and two toned blue mane and tail looked up at her and memories of her and him intertwined in… she shook her head and smiled at them. Cadence looked up at her and smiled warmly.

“Welcome Highness Heartstrings.” She said warmly.

“Nice to meet you.” He said oblivious to who he was addressing.

“Pleasures all mine Prince.” She said as she lowered her head in a bow. Cadence looked at her for a moment with squinted eyes.

“What did you say you're profession was?” She asked. Highness raised her head and looked at her holding her gaze.

“I hadn't said, but I am a relationship counselor. But I do tend to dabble in the cultivation of love as well as study of changelings. Twilight and company looked at her.

“I never knew you studied changelings.” She said with a tilted head.

“I didn't think to bring it up but since you gave me to opportunity to meet one. I couldn't pass it up.” She said looking at her. She knew she was making a huge gamble as both Bolt and Boren held their breath.

“Any expertise is appreciated. I also hope I can maybe speak with you later… in private.” Cadence said as she turned and Shining armor followed with his head hung slightly lower and the taste of guilt could be tasted in the air. Bolt stepped beside her and looked up at her as Highness's eyes seemed to become slightly wider as she looked back at him, and both thought the same question 'what in Tartarus would she want to speak with her alone about?’

They walked along and Twilight trotted up beside Highness and she didn't notice and on the third time her name was said she heard it. She blinked and looked down at the purple mare.

“I'm sorry what?” She asked.

“I said what do you know about changelings? You said you also study them. Why and what do you know?” she asked. Highness Heartstrings was quiet a moment.

“I knew about them before the Canterlot fiasco, truth be told I researched them because of their reason to need love to survive. But what I've discovered was surprising. I've never met one or I can't say for certain because of their shape changing ability. Emotions are what they feed off and the one that fills them the most is love.” Highness Heartstrings said simply.

“Where did you learn this, is there a book?” Twilight asked hopefully. Highness shook her head.

“I'm afraid not. Most of it is my own research. I did a lot of traveling, before I decided to settle down in ponyville.” She said. Which was true the changelings hadn't really had a home till her reign. She had murdered her mother but she was too narrow minded. She was just as susceptible to being just as narrow minded as her mother but she decided on a different course of action.

“Do you have notes? Documents I could look over.” Twilight pressed.

“Probably I do but then again. It's not something I can simply give away I'll get Boren to make you copies.” She promised, of course that would be not all of the information about them. Too much knowledge to anypony could prove troublesome.

“Alright.” She said with a smile. The group of them walked and Bolt seemed uncomfortable and she knew why. The entire area was awash with love, if one wasn't harshly trained in keeping up one's appearance they could falter and expose themselves because of the sheer amount of love that was in the air around them. A part of her wanted to stow away Cadence again and do away with her for good and take her spot just for the amount of power it had given her. But she knew that would only end poorly again.

They made their way to the large crystal spire that stood up in the center of the city. She couldn't help but think of the times she had made visits to see King Sombra when he had control. Sure the atmosphere was full of pain and suffering, but then he was always a different pony then. Highness Heartstrings began to feel the waves of power emanating from the core. She looked at bolt who began to look around nervously.

“Bolt.” she said and he looked at her startled as if he had forgotten she was there.

“Y-yes Highness Heartstrings?” he said breathlessly. The core was affecting him in a way that he was having trouble keeping his composure.

“Can you go find my appointment and tell them I will be running late.” She said with a look that conveyed to him to leave. He nodded with a look of gratefulness as he turned to leave.

“Ill let them know you're in town and will be running late.” he said as he turned to go down a street. Boren looked up at her but kept his mouth shut.

“Is there something wrong with your friend?” Princess Cadence asked.

“Oh it's nothing, he's a bit tired because of the train ride. Hes also a bit antisocial.” she explained to the princess. Cadence smiled and fell back to walk beside her.

“Your very caring for your friends. I tend to be the head of relationship advice but i seem to be in a bind, do you mind if I can ask you for a favor? I usually wouldn't ask a pony I just met but if you're a friend of Twilight that's all I need.” she said looking forward. ‘Naive’ was the first thing so come to her mind before she put on a sweet smile.

“Of course, what kind of favor?” Highness asked not having the foggiest idea why the princess of love would want her for well….anything relationship related.

“Shining Armor and I have been having….problems and a marriage counselor is just what we need.” she said quietly that nopony could hear but her and Boren. She stopped and the entire entourage halted, Boren grabbed his side as he covered his mouth to stop himself from laughing at the irony.

“Highness? What is it?” Twilight asked with a perplexed look on her face. Highnesses shook her head and began to walk again.

“N-no everything is fine, just forgot something at home.” she lied before everyone continued to walk. Cadence was quiet a moment.

“Is that a no?” she asked. Highness looked at her a moment.

“I-I wouldn't mind if you think i can help i'll do my best.” she said before she could think Boren looked at her wide eyed, then the voice inside her screamed. ‘Why the BUCK does stuff happen to me all the time!’