March to the Scaffold

Chapters

II: Judgement and Defiance
III: Dream of a Witches' Sabbath
IV: Equestrian Rhapsody No. 2
VI: An Unaccompanied Suite
VII: A Waltz
VIII: Ballad of the Fallen Angels
IX: A Demon Awakens
X: Sacrifice
XI: Sol Invictus
XII: Acceptance
XIII: A Brick Pony and a Pale Pony
XIV: Intermission (Bonus Chapter)
XV: Ode to Joy
XVI: Fin
Author's Notes (Chapter 1-16)
Epilogue: A Conversation
I: March to the Scaffold
V: Heart of Darkness
A Gallery

II: Judgement and Defiance

The time has come. I have entered the belly of the beast, Chrysalis thought as she was carried into the royal palace. Even now, she still admired the beauty of the palace: its towering white walls, the grand architecture, the marvelous stained glass windows. She could not lie at this point—she was impressed with what ponies could build with their hooves. Chrysalis had planned on making this her new home after the invasion, as she too wanted a grand city for her subjects. But alas, instead of a trophy of victory, it would be the stage of her curtain call.

Looking around, Chrysalis could see the soldiers beginning to break rank and go off in different directions. Some went to the infirmary; they could not show off their wounds forever unless they wanted them to get infected. The rest went either to the barracks for rest or to the mess hall for a warm meal. This left only two soldiers, the ones tasked with pulling the cage she was in. They looked at one another, confused—their orders were to escort the prisoner to the palace, but now that they were here, they did not know what to do. Luckily for them, their moment of discomfiture was short lived.

"Attention!” boomed a voice.

No! Not that voice! Chrysalis thought as the two soldiers in front of her instantly snapped to attention, looking straight ahead with impeccable posture. Her muscles tensed as she felt a gaze upon her.

Not him, she thought as her heartbeat quickened.

"At ease, soldiers. We’ll take care of the prisoner from here. Go now and rest; you’ve earned it," the voice continued, this time accompanied by the sound of approaching hoofbeats.

"Yes, sir." The two soldiers saluted as they unbuckled themselves, happy to have that burden lifted from their backs and the chance to get real food.

Chrysalis turned her head to find the source of the new voice. Her ears flattened as her fears were confirmed. There, accompanied by a squadron of guards, was her former food source, the current captain of the Royal Guard, and the main reason for her defeat: Shining Armor. Out of all the ponies in Canterlot, it just had to be him. Of course he would be here. Who else in Equestria holds a greater hatred for me than him? she thought bitterly.

Chrysalis could only hope that he would not be her executioner. She was afraid he would be the only pony who would be willing to make her death painful. She was not afraid of the captain himself, but she was rather afraid of what he could do to her, as she knew he abhorred her. There was no doubt in her mind that she would be executed; she had come to terms with this and had accepted it as her unavoidable destiny. She was going to die in all cases, so in that regard, she had nothing to lose and nothing to fear. However, as much as she had settled her mind from fear of death, the manner of her dark end worried her. If she was going to die, she hoped it would be quick and painless—a death fitting for a queen. But as the stallion’s intimidating, terrible eyes bored into her, she knew that he would not grant her even this small courtesy should he be chosen to carry out her sentence. She tried to look away from him but was unable to. His glare penetrated her hardened shell and struck the broken queen deep inside. It was the angry, hateful kind of glare that consumed the giver’s very soul. The lone changeling began to sweat, Shining Armor’s hatred radiating from him like a wave of heat from a firestorm, tearing through her like a razor wind. She saw the look in his eyes, and it almost shattered her resolve.

Meanwhile, two ponies of the Royal Guard harnessed themselves to the wagon Chrysalis was riding, though it was not until her cage actually began moving that she was free from the oppressive grip of Shining Armor's glare. Her heart was pounding in her chest—the effect of his stare was immediate. Silently, Shining Armor and his guards turned around and began to escort her to a different location. Even with his back to her, she could still feel his hatred flowing from him like an arctic wind. All she could do was hope that the universe would grant her some reprieve by allowing anything else to deliver the final blow.

Chrysalis had only recently regretted picking Shining Armor as her target. It was true that his love for Cadence was both strong and pure—so pure that a changeling could become intoxicated from it—but if Chrysalis had known just how powerful he really was, she would have picked a weaker, safer target. She sighed; her voracity had caused her downfall.

A couple of minutes passed as she was escorted through the palace. She did not know where she was going. Regardless, she had no control over her destination, so she did not dwell on it. It was not until they had stopped in front of two huge wooden doors that she looked up. Upon seeing the engraving on the doors—one engraved with the sun and the other with the moon—she instantly knew where she was, the entrance to the throne room. The sun and moon upon the doors beheld her with cold and impassive judgement as she was brought before them.

As the two huge wooden doors slowly opened, Chrysalis eyed the thrones. Sitting upon them were two very distinct figures: the Regents of the Sun and the Moon of Equestria, Princesses Celestia and Luna. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, trying to steady herself as she was carted into the center of the room. As she opened her eyes, she saw a guard unlocking her prison. At that moment, she felt a magic aura surround her as she was lifted out of the cage and placed gently on the cold stone floor. At least they’re being gentle, Chrysalis thought. The rope around her muzzle was removed, but her legs, wings, and magic remained restrained. She opened her jaw and stretched it around, glad that she could move it now. The squadron of guards that had escorted her left, the doors closing behind them with a soft thud. She was all alone now. She directed her gaze back at the thrones, seeing Celestia and Luna. Shining Armor and another pony that she did not know sat beside them. Judging by the other pony’s armor, he must have been a higher-ranking guard. The fear that Shining Armor would be the executioner still lingered, his presence only worsening it.

There she lay in the middle of the cold marble floor of the throne room. She stared right back at her captors, puffing out her chest and lifting her head. Chrysalis would not look weak—she would be proud and defiant to the very end. She was a queen, and as such she would die as one. There was nothing to lose and everything to gain. Her choices were clear: she could die a coward and be forgotten in the sands of time, or she could die in infamy, she and her changelings remembered forever. The choice was simple. She stared back, looking up at the faces of her demise, her eyes unwavering as she studied each face. Luna's face was that of disgust and bitterness. No real surprise there; she was obviously angry that her kingdom had been invaded. The unknown pony next to her wore the mask of a royal guard, cold and emotionless. Shining Armor seemed to be trying to do the same, but he his hatred for her was quite visible. His eyes burned with animosity. When her gaze turned to Celestia, she was taken aback. Celestia sat there, her eyes closed and with a reserved look upon her face. From Chrysalis' viewpoint, it seemed there was a hint of sadness there. She would have thought Celestia’s look would be similar to her sister’s—after all, she had injured her and imprisoned her in a cocoon. Instead, however, she wore a mask of impassiveness.

The room was silent for a short time, but to Chrysalis, the seconds felt like hours. Finally the silence was broken as Celestia exhaled softly, her magenta eyes slowly opening. "Queen Chrysalis, ruler of the Changelings, you are brought here to stand trial for your recent invasion of Canterlot. What do you have to say in your defense?" Celestia said, her voice distant and composed.

Chrysalis, on the other hoof, felt her anger bubbling within her. She spat in Celestia’s direction. "How dare you talk down to me like that!" Chrysalis roared. "What do I have to say? Ha! Here you are, sitting on your high throne with all your wealth and prosperity, and yet you have the gall to ask me why I did what I did? Insolent fools! I invaded your precious little city because I wanted to make my subjects’ lives better! You think you can sit here with your abundance of goods and be ignorant to the fact that other beings want the same thing! My people deserve the same prosperity as your ponies do! You think I want to live in some barren wasteland?! My subjects only wanted a better life, but what did you do? You cut them down! You look at me as a monster, but you, Celestia, are the real monster for hoarding all this wealth for yourself!”

"SILENCE!" Luna roared out, the very walls of the castle shaking at the ferocity of her voice. The room became darker as Luna's face contorted in anger. Her wings flared out as she leapt into the air, landing with a deafening crash in front of Chrysalis. Luna's eyes were a blinding white, electricity sparking out of her body. "HOW DARE THOU SPEAKEST TO MY SISTER IN SUCH AN INSOLENT MANNER! THOU KNOWEST NOTHING OF HER ACTIONS! GUARDS, SILENCE HER!" Luna shouted angrily, pointing at the changeling with her hoof.

"Luna," Celestia said, her voice calm as she appeared next to her sister while lowering Luna's hoof. "It is okay. Please calm down."

The room appeared back to normal. Chrysalis’ heart was pounding in her chest—she did not expect an outburst from Luna, nor had she ever heard anything like the Royal Canterlot Voice.

"B—but sister, she called you a monster! We cannot tolerate such a transgression against you," Luna replied, her wings folding back into position.

"Luna, it is okay. I have been called many things over the years and I have done things that I have regretted. It is all right, sister. Now please come and sit back down with me," Celestia said serenely.

"Okay, sister, but only because you said so," Luna said as she made her way back to her throne.

Celestia looked at Chrysalis, her face still emotionless. Celestia quietly turned as she made her way back to her throne, but she stopped mid-stride.

"It is true, Chrysalis—Equestria is wealthy. I have worked hard over these long years to make sure that my ponies have the best lives possible. After seeing what they had endured, I vowed that I would do everything within my power to make their lives more comfortable. I do not turn away from those who seek assistance. I have assisted the Griffin Kingdom, the Zebra tribes, and even the dragons—they asked for help and I gave it to them. But you, however, did not ask for my help. I would gladly have tried to figure out a way to help you and your changelings, but instead you invaded my city and tried to take what you wanted by force. You have harmed my little ponies, Chrysalis. My children," Celestia said, her voice hardening.

Just then, Celestia turned her head, this time her face as cold and hard as the steel of a blade. "Understand this, Chrysalis: I will crush any threat to my children. You do not know what it is like to have those you love stolen from you in such a manner, to have loved ones kidnapped and killed. I do not regret my actions; I will protect my children at all cost. You and your changelings have harmed my ponies, and I did what I had to do to protect them." Celestia’s speech was stern and harsh.

Celestia walked back to her throne, sitting down and again donning the emotionless mask she had worn earlier. "I have heard your defense, Chrysalis. I will now consult with my sister so that we may judge the appropriate course of action for your transgression," she declared, emotionless.

"Ha! Do not take me for a fool—I am well aware of my fate. Do not pretend and hide behind the facade of this so-called ‘trial.’ I knew my fate was sealed the moment I was captured," Chrysalis hissed.

Celestia, however, took no notice of Chrysalis’ words; rather, she was whispering to her sister. Chrysalis looked at them wearily, their “discussion” going on longer then she had expected. Based on Luna's body language, the way her wings were flared and the occasional glare she gave Chrysalis while pointing an accusing hoof towards her...

They must be arguing about my form of execution, Chrysalis thought.

Celestia and Luna’s discussion finally ended when Luna said, "Okay, sister, I concede to your judgment."

"Thank you, sister. I appreciate it," Celestia tenderly replied.

At that moment, both Celestia and Luna rose and began walking towards Chrysalis, who in turn puffed her chest and held her head high. This is it, she thought to herself. She braced herself—she would face her finale with pride and grace as she lay there in the middle of the throne room.

Chrysalis spoke defiantly, “I do not regret my actions, which seem so foul to you all. While you sit there looking upon me with disdain and hatred, considering my actions to be folly, I stand proud and unremorseful. You claim that I should have bowed the knee to you, shaming myself and all my subjects and begging for your help. I scoff at the thought; it is a fine thing for a good changeling to fall and die fighting at the front lines for her native land, whereas to leave her nest unarmed and go a-begging, is of all things the most miserable. For hateful shall such a one be among all those to whom she shall come in bondage to: want and loathsome destitution, and shaming her lineage and forsaking her noble beauty, followed by all evil and dishonor.”

“Thus, with this in mind, I said to my subjects—being so impoverished and wanting just a tiny morsel of sustenance that has been so long denied them—that if so little thought be taken of such a beggar, and so little honor, respect, or pity, ‘Let us fight with a will for this land and die for our race, no longer sparing our lives. Abide then, O young changelings, shoulder to shoulder and fight. Do not begin foul flight nor yet be afraid, but make the heart in your breasts both great and stout and never shrink back when you fight the foe. So let each one bite their lip with their teeth and abide with their feet firmly upon the ground.’”

Celestia and Luna continued walking slowly towards her, finally stopping a few meters ahead of her.

Chrysalis closed her eyes and exhaled, bracing herself for her finale. At that same moment, Celestia also closed her eyes, her horn illuminating with a yellow glow. Luna followed suit, her horn glowing blue. At that moment, Chrysalis felt something coarse trickle along her head and back. She looked up, her eyes widening in horror as she saw her horn beginning to fall apart and crumble before her own eyes. Her breathing becoming rapid as she began to panic. She looked at her back and noticed her wings were also beginning to fall apart. Again she looked at her horn, and in her panic, she shook her body in an attempt to make whatever was happening stop. Her actions, however, only sped the process up. She froze when she heard a thump on the ground, looking in abomination as her horn now lay in front of her, slowly turning into dust, her wings soon following suit.

"What is the meaning of this?!" Chrysalis shouted.

Her train of thought was interrupted as the ground surrounding her burst into light. She looked down and noticed that she now lay in the center of some circular rune. The rune began glowing red. The light grew in intensity until it filled the room with a bright and powerful radiance. Chrysalis then noticed black specks floating before her eyes. She became hysteric at the point. Am I being burned alive? Are they this barbaric? Chrysalis asked herself incredulously, turning her head frantically as she tried to locate the fire. There was none—the black specks that she was seeing were actually parts of her. She looked in trepidation as she noticed her body slowly disintegrating and floating away, leaving nothing behind. The light around grew more and more intense.

In one last act of defiance, she roared out with everything she had left.

“CELESTIA!”

The last sight she saw was that of Celestia slowly opening her eyes, giving one last look at the defeated queen before condemning her to her fate.

III: Dream of a Witches' Sabbath

The blinding red light began to fade away, and Chrysalis' vision started to return. As the last dots faded, she could finally see where she was. She gasped in surprise when she found herself in the middle of a clearing in what appeared to be a forest. The tree line circled around her as a dense fog hung in the air, drastically reducing the visibility of her surroundings.

"What happened? Where am I?" she asked aloud.

Silence was the only reply. She remembered being brought to Canterlot, and then the trial...

"NO!" Chrysalis screamed. Quickly she looked at her back while bringing a hoof to her forehead, checking for her wings and horn. The last time she had seen them, they had been disappearing right before her eyes. Upon seeing her wings and feeling her jagged horn, she let out a sigh of relief.

Okay, calm down, Chrysalis. You have your wings and horn. Relax, we are going to get through this, she thought.

Chrysalis looked up and decided that she could escape by flying away. She flapped her wings—but nothing happened. She grunted and flapped them even harder, but still she remained on the ground. Her breathing quickened. She closed her eyes and tried to cast a spell, but like her wings before, nothing happened. Not even a glow surrounded her horn. Chrysalis once again began to panic.

What is going on? Why am I unable to fly or use my magic? I don't feel injured. I feel as if something is different, but I do not know what. Other than that, I am fine. What in blooming hell is going on around here? Chrysalis asked herself worriedly.

At that moment, she heard a rustle among the tree line. Chrysalis flared her wings and dipped her head in preparation for a charge. She wasn't going down—not now, not without a fight. Seconds passed, but nothing happened. Her green eyes scanned the area for any threat but were unable to find any. Just as she was about to relax, the sound of soft hoofbeats filled the air. Tensing up again, she turned to the direction of the sound, bracing herself. Out of the tree line and through the dense mist, a group of ponies proceeded. Chrysalis froze, ready to retaliate at the first sign of an attack. She saw the outlines of the ponies coming closer. She stood her ground; running was not an option, as she had no idea where she was. When the first pony came into view, she could see it was wearing a black veil over its face. Others came into view, each wearing an identical veil. They were closer, now only fifty meters in front of her. She gritted her teeth, ears flattening as she steadied herself. She waited for a sudden move to release her energy and attack, but they only trudged closer and closer towards her. They continued moving closer to her—and then they walked right past her as if she did not exist.

Chrysalis’ ears flopped down in shock at the lack of attention she was receiving. "Hey! What is going on here?" she demanded. Again silence was her only answer. Chrysalis stamped her hooves on the ground.

"I will not be ignored!" she yelled, bucking out with her hooves at the nearest pony. Her eyes widened in shock when her hooves passed right through the pony. Again she lashed out, but, as before, her hooves phased right through the pony, who did not even react. She tried the same thing on a different pony, but the results did not change. Incredulous, Chrysalis fell to her haunches, staring in dismay at her front hooves.

"D—does this mean I am... dead? I—I really did die after all?" she asked herself.

Chrysalis thought she had already accepted her fate, but now that it had actually transpired, she did not know what to do. Am I going to be stuck like this forever? Chrysalis thought. She looked up and around, noticing that all the ponies from before were gathered around in a group behind her. There must have been at least twenty of them, all just standing in a circle. Chrysalis stood and walked towards the middle of the group. She stood there in the center, wondering what on Earth was going on.

All at once the ponies began to prance and skip around her. Chrysalis stood, bewildered, as the ponies danced as if they were celebrating something. In unison the ponies grabbed their veils and threw them off, finally revealing their faces. Chrysalis gasped as she saw their visage—they were twisted and demonic, each one grinning wickedly, revealing sharp teeth. Chrysalis was confused and nervous. Ponies were not supposed to be like this. It was as if demons had taken the form of ponies. They continued to prance around her, their dancing becoming more erratic. Chrysalis, however, was frozen in her place, unable to look away.

Ding... Ding... Ding...

Suddenly all the ponies stopped their prancing as a bell chimed in the distance. They slowly began to clear an opening in the circle while the bell chimed again.

Ding... Ding... Ding...

Another group of ponies strode in, each one with the same wicked face. On their backs sat a large rectangular box.

No, Chrysalis thought. That cannot be. I saw what happened—there was nothing left! She could only watch in silent horror as the new group of ponies walked past her and towards the center of the circle. They lowered the box onto the ground, and Chrysalis walked towards them. As she got closer, her fears were confirmed—they were carrying a coffin. Chrysalis continued walking towards the coffin, eventually standing over it.

“Is that really me in there?” Chrysalis quietly asked herself.

She did not need to wait long to find out, as one of the ponies came up to the box and yanked the lid off. Chrysalis could only look in silent sorrow at her corpse. She fell to her haunches, tears forming in her eyes as she saw her own body, broken and defeated. Her horn and wings were missing. The look on her face was the worst part of it all. Instead of the mask of defiance for which she so desperately strived, there was only fear and sadness.

“No. This is not what I wanted,” she said weakly.

She was shocked out of her despair when the ponies around her began cheering. She turned to look at them and saw that their twisted faces’ grins were now much more sinister. Again they danced, this time even more wildly and fanatically. They pranced as if they were mocking her. Chrysalis could only lie there, shoulders and ears slumped. She buried her face in her hooves, softly sobbing to herself.

This is not what I wanted, Chrysalis thought. I wanted to be feared and respected, to be given at least some dignity in my death. This is madness. They are mocking me. Just leave me alone, stop mocking me. Just stop, please stop it. Please, anyone, just make them stop—

As if on cue, the dancing and cheers were silenced as everypony stopped what they were doing. Chrysalis looked up, hoping that her wish had been granted. The ponies turned around and began to bow as two new figures entered the circle.

“No,” Chrysalis whispered.

Shining Armor and Princess Cadence strode in, heads held high and eyes closed. Their faces were not demonic like the other ponies. Chrysalis could only stare as they joined the gathering. They stopped before her coffin, slowly opening their eyes as they looked down on Chrysalis’ corpse. They looked at each other, slowly grinning as their faces became diabolical and vicious. Turning to Chrysalis, they roared in laughter, revealing sharp fangs. Everypony followed suit, laughing at the defeated and broken queen. Shining Armor and Cadence suddenly stopped, looking at each other as they began to kiss over Chrysalis’ body. Like before, the crowd followed suit, making out with one another around the coffin.

Chrysalis was horrified at the sort of hedonistic gathering her funeral had become. The celebrations, dancing, and kissing continued. However, Chrysalis could only watch. She wanted to stop them but was unable to do anything. Shining Armor and Cadence stopped their kiss, looking down and then grinning at one another, cruel, evil smiles plastered on their faces. Chrysalis watched as they reached down towards her body.

“No!” she yelled.

Shining Armor and Cadence grabbed her body.

“Stop it!” she roared.

They lifted it out of the coffin, the crowd cheering in anticipation. Each pony grinned wickedly.

“No! Stop it!” she screamed with everything she had.

Her eyes shot open, her heart pounding in her chest, to gaze upon a white ceiling.

IV: Equestrian Rhapsody No. 2

Chrysalis could hear her heart pounding in her chest as she gazed upon a white ceiling. She took a shaky gasp of breath. She was unable to tell if it was sweat or tears on her face. Chrysalis lay there for a moment, trying to calm her racing heart.

Was it just a dream? she pondered.

She sat up and observed her surroundings. She noted that she was on a bed in some sort of lightly furnished room. There was a small dresser next to her, on which sat a lamp and a clock slowly ticking away. There was also a bookcase with various books upon its shelves. In addition, she noted a large mirror off to the corner. Turning to the mirror, Chrysalis, instead of seeing the majestic black queen of the changelings, saw a light tan earth pony with a silvery white mane. Chrysalis’ eyes widened, and the pony in the mirror did the same. Her heart began to thump faster. She jumped out of the bed and ran to the mirror, watching in horror as the reflection mimicked each of her actions. She slowly brought a hoof up to the mirror; the mirror image did the same. Chrysalis would never have imagined that the pony she was seeing was her if it was not for the reflection’s eyes. They were a dark, rich emerald green. There was no doubt—they were her eyes.

What is going on? Why am I like this? Okay, calm down. Just change back. Focus and change forms like you have done a million times before, Chrysalis thought.

She closed her eyes and focused, trying to concentrate her magic to her horn. Nothing happened. Again she focused, trying to grasp her magic. However, to her dismay, she could not even feel her magic, let alone her horn.

“What is going on? Why can I not change forms?” Chrysalis shouted out loud.

“Simple, dear—because you are no longer a changeling,” said a familiar voice behind her.

Chrysalis instantly spun around and found herself face-to-face with Princess Celestia herself.

“Sir, do you really think this is a good idea? The Princesses have already made a judgement. It is not wise to question them, Captain.” Lieutenant Ironhoof spoke somewhat nervously, trying to keep up with his superior.

“I do not care, lieutenant! I want to know why that thing is not buried six feet under!” Shining Armor roared back, his pace quickening as he made his way towards Princess Luna’s chambers.

“Sir, I implore you to reconsider. Princess Luna is about to retire from her shift. It is unwise to bother her. Don’t you think that you are taking this issue a little bit too personal?” Ironhoof replied nervously.

“Personal? The changelings almost took over Canterlot! Of course I am taking things personally! I am the captain of the Royal Guard!” Shining Armor said sternly.

Lieutenant Ironhoof looked around nervously. He knew his captain was headstrong, but he stood by him to make sure he did not go too far out of line. They continued walking through the castle, eventually reaching Luna’s private chamber. Shining Armor gave a quick nod and the two guards stationed there moved aside. He gave a quick series of knocks. His lieutenant gulped and braced himself.

“Yes? Do come in,” Luna replied. Shining Armor and his lieutenant opened the door and entered her room. They found Princess Luna resting on her bed, a quill and parchment floating in front of her.

“Ah, Shining Armor, what a pleasant surprise. Nice to see you too, Ironhoof. What brings you two here at this hour? I am just getting ready for the night shift,” Luna said with a soft smile.

“Captain, stop this while you have the chance,” Ironhoof whispered. Shining Armor, however, ignored him.

“I am here to talk about the recent trial of our prisoner,” Shining Armor said in a stern voice.

“Oh. You mean her,” Luna answered, her mood instantly changing as she lowered her parchment and quill. The soft smile on her face vanished, replaced with a serious and grim look. “What is the problem, Captain?”

“Why is she still alive?” Shining Armor replied flatly as he tried to hide his own anger.

Luna was shocked at first. However, her expression soon changed to sadness. Her mane and ears dropped slightly. She looked down at her forehooves for a while as a silence filled the room.

Luna turned her head away, looking outside at the night sky and sighed. “We do not wish to talk about it. If you really want to know, go ask my sister. We wish to be alone right now, so would you two please leave?”

Shining Armor was speechless. However, before he could reply, he was already pushed out of Luna’s room and into the hallway by his lieutenant.

“Her highness did not look happy about your inquiry, captain. I would again suggest you drop this endeavor. I do not think Princess Luna or her sister wants to be questioned on this decision. So please just let it go,” Ironhoof said in a soft voice.

“No,” Shining Armor replied, his face hardening as he turned around and trotted down the hall. Ironhoof looked at him with a worried face before quickly catching up to him.

Chrysalis jumped in surprise, instantly turning around and assuming a defensive stance. "Celestia! Where am I? Why are you here? I cannot change; what did you do to me?" she yelled, her heart racing.

Celestia, in return, only gave a soft smile back as she sat down. "Why hello, Chrysalis," she replied cheerfully. "Well, I suppose I can answer your questions. First, you are in one of the guest rooms in my castle. Second, I thought I would give you a visit so that I can explain what has happened. Finally, you cannot change forms because you are no longer a changeling."

"WHAT?" Chrysalis shouted.

"It is as I said: you are no longer a changeling," Celestia replied.

"Lies!" Chrysalis roared back. She closed her eyes again and focused with all of her might, trying to draw in magic as she had done so many times in the past. Her face scrunched up in concentration as she desperately tried to change form. She continued to try for a couple of minutes before she tired out, panting.

"Careful now; you may hurt yourself,” Celestia said.

“SILENCE!” Chrysalis yelled. She tried once more, putting all of her mental effort into transforming before finally giving up.

“What did you do to me?” she asked once again in a strained and injured voice.

“You cannot change forms because you lack that ability now. Instead, you are now a member of the proud earth pony race,” Celestia explained.

“How could you do such a horrible thing? How could you disgrace me in such a way?” Chrysalis yelled back, stomping her hooves.

“How is sparing you a horrible thing? Also, I have not done this to disgrace you. I did it so that you will learn an important lesson. I want you to realize why your actions were wrong. My little ponies are not a food source—they are so much more than you realize. To have somepony stolen away from you is very painful. Lastly, asking for help is not a sign of weakness, Chrysalis. Maybe now you can see that accepting a helping hoof is okay,” Celestia replied with a calm face.

Chrysalis was dumbfounded. She fell to her haunches, looking at her hooves, shaking. I am stuck like this, stuck as a lowly pony. What do I do? I am a queen, damn it, not some peasant pony. How will I live like this? Chrysalis thought.

“Being a pony is not a bad thing, Chrysalis. Look, you even have a cutie mark, the theatrical mask of comedy and tragedy. It is quite fitting, if I do say so myself,” Celestia said with a hoof over her mouth, trying to suppress a giggle.

Chrysalis turned to look on her thigh. Sure enough, there were two masks as her cutie mark. She knew about cutie marks was that they were supposed to symbolize a pony’s special talent. She rubbed a hoof over it to see if it would go away to no avail. Chrysalis sat there, completely dejected. In the span of a few days, she had gone from a powerful queen to an average pony.

“Why couldn't you just have killed me? You could at least let me die as a proud queen,” Chrysalis said softly.

Celestia sighed. “Chrysalis, I do not like killing or harming anything. Being merciful is more important to me. When you were brought back here, you seemed afraid. It seemed as though you were scared of dying. It is true that many ponies around here wanted you to be executed, but to me that is just barbaric. So I decided to spare you by changing you into a pony. There are only three other individuals who know what actually happened. I am giving you a chance to redeem yourself and have a new start.”

“I do not fear death! I wanted to die; I do not need your mercy,” Chrysalis retorted angrily.

“Is that so? May I ask what your dream was about? It did not seem very pleasant, from what I heard,” Celestia said, raising an eyebrow.

Chrysalis’ eyes widened, and her head jerked up. “W—What? Were you watching me?” she gasped.

“Oh my, heavens, no. It is just that it was hard not to hear you. It seemed to be a really bad dream. Would you like to talk about it?” Celestia answered with concern.

“I do not need your pity! Why couldn’t you just kill me now and save me from any further humiliation?” Chrysalis asked, shaking a hoof at Celestia.

“Tell me this: why do you want to die?” Celestia asked, her face impassive.

“So I can be feared and remembered! At least my reputation would still be intact. I would be remembered forever as the queen that almost conquered Equestria. Ponies would fear my name. I could live forever in history,” Chrysalis affirmed, standing up and puffing her chest out.

“And what if you were not remembered or feared? Then what would your death mean? Or what if history decides to mock you for your failure? My sister got much closer than you did to taking over Equestria, yet her name was shortly forgotten, even when her image was plastered on the moon. I am glad most ponies have forgotten her past; that means she can have the clean slate she deserves. If the Nightmare Moon incident was forgotten, what makes you think your failed attempt will not be?” Celestia mused.

Chrysalis chest deflated as she fell to her haunches. The memories of her previous dream came flooding back—the way the ponies mocked her and what they were doing to her body. She shivered at the thought. Doubts began to creep in; she was not as confident as was previously. Much had happened to her in a short amount of a time, leaving her confused and disoriented. Before she had time to gather her thoughts, she heard a ‘pop’. Looking up, she saw a opened scroll and quill floating before Celestia.

“Ah, good. It is here,” Celestia remarked. Using her magic, she opened the scroll and lifted the quill as she began to write. “Hmmm...”

Chrysalis was even more confused. Looking up, she asked, “What is that? What are you writing?”

Celestia lowered the scroll, her eyes meeting Chrysalis. “Just finishing your documentation. You are now a citizen of Equestria; as such you need the proper paperwork. Let’s see. ‘Coat:’ light brown or tan. ‘Mane:’ white/silver. ‘Eyes:’ green—which look great with your coat color, if I may add. ‘Birthplace:’ I’ll just put down Canterlot. ‘Date of Birth:’ hmm, just about to make one up here. ‘Name:’ what should your new name be?”

“Why can’t I use my name?” Chrysalis demanded, disgusted at the thought of being called anything else.

“Well, given your history, I doubt that will be a good idea. We do not want anypony to figure out who you are. I am rather sad to admit, but some ponies are just not as forgiving as they should be. I cannot guarantee your safety if your true identity is revealed. So for your best interest, a new name will be given,” Celestia replied, her expression more serious.

Chrysalis turned away, unable to look Celestia in the eye. Thoughts of Shining Armor’s hatred came to mind. She was afraid of what Shining Armor would do to her if he had the chance. She did not want to think about what would happen should she fall into the hooves of a mob that harbored the same hatred for her.

“Now let’s see. We need a name. Any thoughts?” Celestia inquired.

Chrysalis was silent, looking at the ground while her ears flicked with annoyance. The thought of cooperating with Celestia sickened her.

“Aha! From here on out, your new Equestrian name will be Silver Skip,” Celestia remarked cheerfully while writing it down.

Chrysalis rose an eyebrow, looking at Celestia with suspicion. “What kind of name is that?” Chrysalis asked. “That sounds nothing like any name I have ever heard.”

“There is a species of butterfly called the silver-spotted skipper. It is very fitting if I do say so myself. From chrysalis to butterfly—it is a very poetic idea. You can consider it your metamorphosis.” Celestia said cheerfully. With a flash of her horn, the scroll she had been writing on teleported away.

She jumped up and pointed her hoof at Celestia. “What do you want from me? You capture me, and instead of granting me my rightful death, you shame me by forcibly turning me into a pony. How am I supposed to live like this? How is this a new start? To me, this seems more like torture than a lesson. Why can’t you just put me out of my misery now?”

Celestia sighed. “As I have already said, I want you to learn the value of friendship. You need to realize that ponies are more than a food source, so I have decided that you will live in Canterlot like a normal pony so that you may have a chance to learn the importance of friendship. You need to build real relationships if you want to live. You can no longer fake them.”

“And what happens if I refuse to make friends or relationships? Then what?” Chrysalis retorted.

“Then you will live a very lonely and sad life. I am giving you a chance to have a happy life. However, that does not mean there are not restrictions. You are not allowed to leave the city, and you will be on constant surveillance by the Royal Guard. I have already set up an apartment with the first month paid for and enough bits to last the month. It is up to you to secure bits after that. Hopefully you will learn the value of other ponies and friends.” Celestia slowly stood and made her way to the door. “With that said, I will take my leave as I have other things to take care of. A guard will come later and escort you out of the palace and give you your supplies,” Just before she left the room, she turned her head back towards Chrysalis.

“Remember what I told you earlier, Chrysalis. I will crush any threat against my little ponies. If you harm one, I will not be so lenient next time. This is your first and only warning,” Celestia said with a stern voice. With that, she exited the room and closed the door behind her, leaving an astonished Chrysalis alone with her thoughts.

As Celestia quietly closed the door behind her, she began to walk down the hallway. I hope that Chrysalis would see the magic of friendship. If she could make a friend, she would know how wonderful ponies are, and she would realize what she did was wrong. If she does not, though, she will be miserable. My sister could find friends—I think she can too. Oh, Luna, you have no idea just how happy I am to have you back. It has been too long, Celestia thought to herself.

Her train of thought was interrupted when she saw Shining Armor and Ironhoof waiting at the end of the hall. “Captain, Lieutenant—what brings you here today?” Celestia asked.

“We need to talk,” Shining Armor answered flatly.

Celestia could tell by his expression that he was serious and not in a pleasant mood. She sighed quietly. “Very well. We shall discuss this in my chambers,” Celestia said.

They walked silently to Celestia’s private chambers. The guards stationed there opened the doors for them and then closed them quietly behind them. Celestia walked to the middle of the room and sat on a pillow. Shining Armor stood there, his face cold and hard. Ironhoof, however, looked even more nervous than before. Silence pervaded the room.

“What would you like talk about, Shining Armor?” Celestia finally asked.

“We need to talk about that,” Shining Armor replied.

“You need to be more specific, Shining Armor. I have a lot of things going on right now,” Celestia said.

Shining Armor finally snapped, his anger and hatred finally getting the better of him as he took off his helmet and threw it to the ground. Ironhoof looked mortified. Shining Armor, however, showed no signs of fear, his face contorted in anger. “Stop playing games with me, Celestia! You know damn well what I am talking about! Why is that thing still alive and not buried in the ground? She invaded our city and almost took control of it! Her crimes demand that she be executed on the spot!” Shining Armor roared.

Celestia composure remained unchanged, however. “Tell me, Captain, is that the only reason you want her dead?” Celestia asked, her tone more serious.

Shining Armor was startled by the question, but it was short-lived as his hatred came flaring back. “Fine! I will admit it that I want her dead for what she did to me, but personal feelings do not matter. She broke the law and threatened the safety of Equestria, so she must be executed!”

“So let me get this straight. If someone threatens the safety of Equestria, they should be killed? Personal feelings should not be involved, is that correct?” Celestia said.

“Yes. Personal feelings do not matter. If something threatens the safety of Equestria and its citizens, it should be executed,” Shining Armor asserted.

“So tell me, Captain, should have I killed my sister a thousand years back?” Celestia asked sternly.

Shining Armor was shocked, his stance faltering by Celestia’s question. “Of course not! She is your sister,” he replied quickly.

“But as you said, Captain, personal feelings do not matter. By your logic, I should have killed my sister for her actions,” Celestia said back.

“B—But that was different! It was Nightmare Moon, not Luna, who wanted eternal night,” Shining Armor stammered.

“Nightmare Moon was the physical manifestation of Luna’s anger and jealousy. Luna let her anger and jealousy consume her. Nightmare Moon was Luna, Captain,” Celestia replied, her voice unchanging.

“Chrysalis attacked the city; she wanted to conquer Equestria,” Shining Armor mentioned, his voice faltering.

“Luna was much closer to conquering Equestria than Chrysalis. Luna and I destroyed the old capital in the Everfree Forest in our battle. She and I did much more damage than Chrysalis ever did,” Celestia answered back.

“But Chrysalis harmed other ponies. She harmed me,” Shining Armor said weakly. He could not look at Celestia anymore; he could only stare at the ground.

“And Luna hurt me and a lot of other ponies too,” Celestia said.

Shining Armor fell to his haunches, defeated. “I—I...”

Celestia got up and knelt in front of Shining Armor, her expression and voice softening. “Shining Armor, you must not let your anger and hatred consume you. I have seen what it has done to other ponies. I have seen what it has done to my sister. I knew my sister’s actions were wrong, and I could have punished her more severely, but I knew, deep down, that she was good. That is why I sent her away until she could be saved. I know what Chrysalis did was wrong, and I know she hurt you. We need to ask ourselves what kind of country we want to be. Do we want to be a country that strictly follows every rule to the letter, or do we want to be a country that shows mercy and kindness? Yes, I could have punished Chrysalis more severely, but instead I chose the lesser punishment so that she could have a chance to redeem herself. You must learn to forgive others even when they have harmed you. I know it is hard, but you cannot let your anger and hatred consume your being. What would your wife—the very symbol of love—think? Can you live a life of hate and love her as well? What about your sister Twilight, the embodiment of the magic of friendship? Should Twilight hate my sister for trying to harm her and her friends? Did she hold a grudge for the rest of life, or did she offer her hoof in friendship at the first opportunity, even after the trials she underwent? Should I hate my sister for the pain she has caused me, or should I forgive her transgressions? You are Captain of the Guard of Equestria, the very nation that I have worked so hard to symbolize peace and love—yet here you are, consumed by hatred.”

Shining Armor froze. He opened his mouth and then closed it. His shoulders and head slumped. He had shamed Celestia and both his beloved wife and little sister. His head sank lower as tears began to form, rolling down his face. Cadence, Twily, what have I done? I have let my anger get the best of me. I have shamed you both. I am sorry.

“I—I am deeply sorry, Your Majesty. I have brought dishonor to you and Equestria. I will put my letter of resignation on your desk by morning,” Shining Armor said weakly.

“Oh Shining Armor,” Celestia said softly as she gently lifted Shining Armor’s head with a hoof. Her soft magenta eyes met Shining Armor’s tear-filled eyes. “I do not want you to resign. I know you are a good pony, and I know just how much Chrysalis has hurt you. I did not want to see you consumed by your emotions; I have seen that too many times. How about we make a deal? You do not have to resign if you promise me that you will not let your emotions consume you and that you will give her a chance at redemption. You do not have to like her, but you can at least show her mercy. How does that sound?”

“P—Princess... Thank you. I promise that I will not disappoint you again,” Shining Armor stuttered.

“My little pony, I know you will not, because I know you have a good heart,” Celestia said softly. She gently brushed away his tears with her hoof. Her horn glowed as she levitated Shining Armor’s helmet back on his head.

“Come on, Captain, let’s get you some water,” Ironhoof said gently as he helped Shining Armor to his hooves.

As the two made their way out the door, Ironhoof turned around and gave a deep bow to Celestia. “Your Highness, thank you for your mercy. I was afraid I was going to lose my captain. Thank you,” Ironhoof said. Celestia gave him a soft nod and a smile. Ironhoof got back up to help Shining Armor out of the room.

As the doors slowly closed behind them Celestia was left to her thoughts. Now I wonder if another pony will take the chance that she has been given.

VI: An Unaccompanied Suite

“Ma’am, we are here to escort you out of the palace. Would you please follow me?” a white pegasus guard said.

Chrysalis looked up, her eyes wide and distant. She was still trying to comprehend all the events that had transpired in only a few number of days. A couple days ago, she had been about to conquer Canterlot; now, she’d had her title stripped and had been forcibly changed into an earth pony. All the power she once had was now gone. She could not fly nor use magic. In her mind this was the degrading body.

Her mind had not caught up with her body. She silently got up and followed the guard automatically. As she walked, she stared at the ground, lost. Instead of the hardened black hooves she’d once had and knew, she now saw soft tan hooves. Chrysalis could only follow the hoofbeats in front of her.

“We’re here,” the guard said.

Chrysalis finally looked up, seeing that she was in a place she thought she would never see again—outside. She stood there for a moment, feeling the sun against her coat.

“Here you go, ma’am,” the guard said as he grabbed the saddlebag over his back, holding it out in front of Chrysalis.

“What is in the bag?” Chrysalis asked warily.

The guard placed the bag on the ground. “I do not know. I was ordered to escort you out of the palace and to give you that bag. Now if you will excuse me, I must get back to my post. Have a nice day.” As he finished, he turned around and closed the door behind him with a soft thud, leaving Chrysalis alone outside the palace.

Chrysalis stared at the unassuming saddlebag in front of her. After a fruitless staring contest, she finally grabbed the saddlebag and opened it. She dug out a small coin purse filled with bits. She placed it back and pulled out a stack of papers, flipping through them to see that they were her documents, as Celestia had said. There were her identification papers, birth certificate, and her apartment contract with a key.

She dropped the papers back into the bag, falling to her haunches, the steady realization of her situation finally dawning on her. Is this my life now, to be a pony? Am I supposed to associate with the things I once called food? Chrysalis thought as she stared into the sky.

“No...” Chrysalis whispered, her eyes narrowing. “I will not be beaten by you, Celestia. I will not dare associate myself with your little ponies. I will have my revenge at any cost. Canterlot and Equestria will be mine!”

Grabbing the bag roughly, she flung it over her back. I could use these later on. With a grim and determined face she made her way to Canterlot’s entrance.

“There is no way you can keep me locked up in your precious city, Celestia. I will escape,” Chrysalis whispered to herself as she made her way to the main gate. There was nothing out of the ordinary, just the standard two guards with blank faces. This will be easy, Chrysalis thought. Puffing out her chest and lifting her head, she made her way to the gate.

“Stop right there, ma’am,” one of the guards said.

Chrysalis stopped, her path now blocked by two brown unicorn guards. “What is the meaning of this? Get out of my way this instant!” she snapped.

“I am afraid we are not allowed to do that, ma’am. We have orders to keep you within the borders of the city. You are not permitted to leave,” the other guard replied.

Chrysalis took a step forward. “I demand that you let me out immediately!” she yelled.

Other ponies around began to turn their heads to view an angry tan mare shouting at guards.

The guards in turn stepped forward, standing right in front of Chrysalis and looking down at her. From the perspective of her new pony body, they looked much more intimidating. “If you are unhappy with your current situation, we will be more than happy to give you new accommodations in the dungeons,” one of the guards said sternly.

Chrysalis’ ears flattened as the two guards stared her down. She could hear the snickers of the ponies in the background. Her cheeks began to turn a light shade of red. With a loud “humph,” she turned around, raising her head. “You cannot keep me here forever!”

As she walked away her poise began to falter. She stomped at the ground in frustration, her mane flying wildly in her face. Fine, Celestia! I will play your game for now, but I will win. You will not break me, Chrysalis thought, her nostrils flaring. Finding a corner to sit down, she again opened her saddlebag. She grabbed and opened the coin purse, and her shoulders slumped at the sight she saw. There were barely enough bits to last the week, and that was if she used them sparingly. Celestia was not kidding—she would have to get a job, fast. She shuddered at the thought.

Chrysalis walked all around Canterlot, looking for a “Help Wanted” sign. She eventually made her way to the upper terrace of the city. While walking, she spotted what she was looking for. There was a “Help Wanted” sign on some fancy-looking restaurant called “The Garden.” Putting on her best mask and a fake smile, she strolled in. She was confident; she was a great actress, after all.

An hour later, Chrysalis strode out of the restaurant. She had expected much more of challenge, but this had just been too easy for her. She had played the restaurant’s management like fools. With a fake smile and a flick of her eyelashes, she’d had them dancing in her hooves. Chrysalis could not lie; it felt amazing to feel as though she had power again. Knowing that she could still easily manipulate ponies in this form was a huge relief to her.

Chrysalis made her way through Canterlot, looking down at the paper that had her apartment’s address on it. Finally able to locate it, she made her way to, as she called it, her temporary home. After struggling a little bit with the key, not used to having to use her mouth or hooves, she finally made it in. She sighed with relief looking at her apartment. It seemed plain, but at least it was clean. Looking around, she found a bed, a nightstand, a cabinet, and a full-body mirror. Chrysalis was afraid that Celestia would make her stay in an awful, dirty, and downright nasty apartment as revenge. Walking over to the mirror, she gave herself a good look. She saw a light tan–colored coat and silvery white mane. Her cutie mark was two masks, one frowning and the other smiling. She turned her head in disgust. How dare she put me in a lower life form’s body? This body is weak and soft, not fit for a queen. She took another look, blowing her mane out of her eyes. At least my eyes are the same color, proof of my former self.

Walking to the window, she looked down at the street below, watching ponies stroll around. “I will beat you, Celestia. I will not frolic with your ponies. You may have won this battle, but I will win our war,” Chrysalis said harshly.

However, before she could win her war, she had to go to work tomorrow morning.

Chrysalis stood there, fidgeting with her uniform. She had never been used to wearing clothes; it also felt too constricting for her. In addition she hated that she had to follow orders. She was a queen—she gave the orders. But for now she had to play Celestia’s little game. She sighed, balancing the tray of food that was on her back. Chrysalis was told that she had to give food to a “very special customer,” some pony named Blueblood or something. She had not been paying attention.

Walking over to the designated table, she found the pony she had to serve. He was a large white unicorn stallion with blue eyes and a strange, compass-looking thing as a cutie mark. Again putting on her mask and a fake smile, she walked near him.

“Well, it is about time! Do you know how long I had to wait for my food? Such service. How hard is it to give me my food on time? You lowly peasant, do you know who I am? Now hurry up, wench, and give me my food,” Blueblood said haughtily.

Chrysalis' eye twitched. She gritted her teeth. The burning anger deep inside started to flare up, ready to be released as a raging inferno. Her breaths became more shallow, her body quivering with rage. How dare he insult me! I am Chrysalis, the queen of the changelings!

“Are you deaf or just stupid? Did you not hear me?” Blueblood said impatiently, turning up his nose.

Chrysalis at this point was shaking with rage. Grabbing the tray of food, she slammed it into Blueblood’s face as hard as she could. CLANG! Blueblood fell over, shrieking while holding his nose.

“H—how dare you! Do you know who I am?” Blueblood asked feebly, trying to sound tough. Before he could get up, Chrysalis was standing over him, her green eyes burning with rage. The entire restaurant fell quiet.

“You ungrateful insect! I do not care who you are because to me you are nothing more than a lowly worm that deserves to be crushed underhoof!” Chrysalis yelled back.

Blueblood shrank back with every word, cowering as the angry mare stood over him. “B—but,” he whimpered, unable to finish when Chrysalis jammed her hoof into his mouth.

“Silence, you worthless bastard!” Chrysalis roared. “How dare you insult me. You are nothing but an ant compared to me!” Yes, cower before me, you little insect. Fear me. She felt powerful, watching her helpless victim tremble before her. Chrysalis knew she was going to enjoy every second of this, the perfect way to vent the rage that had been building inside her over the past couple of days. “I will enjoy slowly draining your life away. I will savor every moment as you beg for your worthless, pitiful life, you ignorant ass,” Chrysalis said venomously. She placed her other hoof on his chest, holding him there.

Blueblood was on the verge of crying. He tried to get away, but she held him there.

“Now beg for your worthless life, you miserable—” Chrysalis could not finish her sentence as two guards came and grabbed her off her victim. She struggled in their grasp, angry that she was denied her prey. “You bastards! Get your hooves off me at once. I am not finished with that worthless pile of flesh over there. Let me go this instant, you fools!” Chrysalis yelled, struggling against the two guards to no avail. As she was dragged out of the restaurant, the crowd stared, their mouths agape.

However, there was a stallion in the corner with a blue mane and moustache, sitting with a pink-maned white mare, quietly chuckling to himself. “Oh my, that shut ol’ Blueblood up, didn’t it? Boy, did she give him what he deserved. Jolly good, miss, jolly good,” he quietly said.

Chrysalis was dragged out of the restaurant and unceremoniously dropped on the ground, the doors slamming behind her.

“Bastards!” Chrysalis shouted. How dare they take me away from my rightful prey! Ripping off her uniform, she stomped off angrily. She’d only had her job for one hour, and she’d already been fired. Still, it was nice that she got to vent her anger out on that stallion. She had greatly enjoyed watching him squirm.

She sighed. She was going to have to find another source of income.

A loud growl from her stomach interrupted her thoughts. Clutching her stomach, she remembered she had not yet eaten anything at all. She shakily stood and set off for a place to eat. After her first step, her malnourished limbs betrayed her and she stumbled, hitting the ground hard. She had not eaten any food since her punishment, and even then she had been starving as a changeling. Panting hard as she got back up, she slowly started walking with her head hanging low. Today will be a long day.

Chrysalis sighed as she sat down at an outside table. It was only noon, and she was already exhausted. After a long walk, she managed to find a small old-looking bakery called “Bread & Butter Bakery.” She rested her head against the table, her eyelids already falling due to the day’s events.. A nap sounded like a great idea.

“Why hello there, miss,” a cheery voice said. Chrysalis looked up, irked that someone would disturb her attempted nap, to find an older-looking mare gazing down at her with a smile on her face. “My name is Rye Bread. What can I get for you today, hon?”

Chrysalis remembered that she was at a restaurant. She stared at the menu in front of her. Everything on it looked foreign to her. Chrysalis had never needed to eat food for nourishment, and she had rarely eaten when she was in disguise. She had no idea what was good or how it would taste. She sighed and put down the menu.

“Just give me the cheapest sandwich you have.”

The waitress smiled. “Sure thing, miss. One peanut butter and jelly sandwich will be coming right up.” She paused, a worried look crossing her features. “Is everything all right? Is money an issue? If so, we will gladly give you a discount on your meal. You look exhausted.”

“I do not need your pity or your help!” Chrysalis snapped, giving the waitress a hard glare.

The waiter nodded sympathetically. “Sorry, miss, I did not mean to offend you. I will bring your food out shortly,” the waiter replied gently as she turned around and walked back toward the bakery.

Chrysalis glowered as the waitress left. After she was gone, Chrysalis put her head back on the table, sighing. “I hate you, Celestia,” she whispered.

The waitress re-entered the bakery with a frown on her face. “Sourdough,” she called out.

An older-looking stallion, roughly the same age as the waitress, turned from behind the counter. “Yes, honey?” he answered, a kind smile on his face.

“Dear, there is a poor mare outside who looks weak and exhausted. She acted very proud and stubborn, but I could tell when I looked into her eyes. I offered her a free meal, but she instantly shot it down. We cannot just leave her out there without doing anything. Do you think you could make her order much larger than normal?” Rye said.

The older stallion’s face softened. “Of course, dear. Who would we be if we did not give a helping hoof to those who need it?” Sourdough answered.

Chrysalis on the other hoof was in and out of consciousness. She wanted to sleep but couldn’t, and she was starving. For the first time in her life, she felt her stomach grumbling, and she hated it. She felt weak, both physically and mentally. Chrysalis was miserable, and although she would never admit it even to herself, she was starting to sink into depression.

Chrysalis’ mind wandered. She wanted to continue fighting, to beat Celestia and Equestria. Ever since she was born, she’d had to fight and struggle just to survive, and she was getting tired of it. Her mother had used the last bit of her energy giving birth to her. She had been alone from the very beginning, trying to carve out a measly existence for herself and her changelings. Chrysalis carried a heavy burden on her shoulders, and the weight was finally starting to bring her down.

She had tried to do everything for her changelings by giving them energy or trying to make them self-aware. Although she had made some progress on the latter by making them feel some emotion, she had ultimately failed. She could not get her changelings to become individuals. To them, there was only “us” and her. Always obedient and never questioning, they could never think for themselves. In the end, they were just beasts. She’d had to plan all of the movements, all of their actions. She did miss them greatly, but she was not completely lost without them; she’d never had any real relationships with them, anyway.

At that moment, though, she wished she could be with them, to have died with them in their final battle. Most of the changelings had been crushed between a wall and Shining Armor’s barrier, dying instantly. After the failed invasion, she’d only had roughly three score left. None of them, including herself, were in any shape to fight. After she had learned of the impending Equestrian Army, she could feel the changelings’ fear; it was like that of a cornered and wounded beast. Equestria had offered her an ultimatum—they could surrender and be guaranteed safety, or they could fight. And surrendering had never been an option for her.

Chrysalis rallied her changelings, and they defended their nest valiantly. In the end, however, they were simply overpowered. Her changelings had followed their orders—they had given their lives to their queen without any second thought. She remembered being surrounded by the Equestrians. She had held her ground and was willing to die that day. However the Equestrians had planned differently; they had captured her alive.

At that moment, Chrysalis wondered if she should just end her life. It would be quick and easy for her to just give up everything. It would finally remove the heavy burden she had carried for so long. The idea of having no more responsibilities seemed extremely enticing.

No! Chrysalis thought as she lifted her head off the table. I cannot give in. I will have my revenge. I will escape this blasted city, and I will raise an army. Next time I will crush Celestia with my hooves. I will find a way to change back. I have to remain strong.

“Here you go, hon,” Rye Bread said as she placed her order in front of her. “If you need anything, please feel free to ask me.” With a quick smile, she trotted off to help another customer.

Chrysalis stared at her sandwich. It was much larger than she had thought. Jelly and peanut butter were oozing out of the sides. She looked at it with utter disgust. This looks awful! Just look how messy it is. Her stomach growled. She had no choice; she had to eat it. Awkwardly picking it up with her hooves, she closed her eyes and hesitantly took a small bite.

Her eyes widened and her ears perked. It was delicious. She chewed it slowly just so she could savor every bite. Before her punishment, she could taste food to some degree, but now that she was a regular pony and starving she was experiencing the full flavor. She could taste the ingredients, the sweetness of the jelly and the savoriness of the peanut butter, and she could feel the texture of the bread. Chrysalis let out a quiet moan as she finished her first bite. Drooling a little as she anticipated the next bite, she slowly brought her meal closer to her muzzle as she closed her eyes.

SPLAT!

Chrysalis opened her eyes. Her one small joy was now covered in mortar. She dropped the ruined sandwich, her fury quickly rising as she gritted her teeth.

“Wooh, terribly sorry down there!” a voice called out from above. Looking up, Chrysalis saw a pony in a bosun’s chair slowly lowering himself down. When he finally made it to the ground, Chrysalis was able to get a good look at the pony responsible for ruining the one good thing she’d had in a long time. He was an earth pony with a gray coat, a brown mane, and brown eyes. She was able to see his cutie mark, a hammer and chisel.

“Sorry there. I guess I dropped some mortar. I didn’t hurt you, did I?” the pony said.

“You insolent fool!” Chrysalis shouted as she slammed her hooves on the ground. “You ruined my meal!” Grabbing her plate, she readied herself to throw her second dish into the pony’s face.

“You are right, ma’am,” the pony said, kneeling in front of her with his head low to the ground. “I was a fool to have made such a stupid mistake. Please accept my humblest apologies.”

Chrysalis was stunned, dropping her plate. Here was a pony kneeling in front of her as though she was a queen again. She had no idea what to do; she had originally planned on unleashing her anger on this pony.

“Please, ma’am, let me pay for your meal and order you a new one,” he replied as he got up.

“I do not need your help!” Chrysalis snapped.

“Please, I insist. Think of it not as help but as repayment for my actions. I have made a mistake and I wish to correct it. Please, I owe you,” he said.

Chrysalis thought for a moment. She had not expected anypony to treat her like this. He is right, she pondered. He does owe me. “Fine,” she declared, turning her head away.

“Thank you. I am sorry, I did not catch your name. I am Mortar Brick,” he said.

“Chr—” Chrysalis stopped.

“I am sorry, I couldn't quite make that out. What was it?” Mortar asked.

Chrysalis eyed his plain face and brown eyes. Her mind raced. She could not use her real name, as that would raise suspicion. She tried to think of a name, but only one came to mind. Chrysalis did not want to use that name; it was a disgrace to her. But time was running out as Mortar looked at her with anticipation.

As much as it pained her, she had to use it. “It is Silver Skip,” Chrysalis answered, struggling to say the words. She felt sick saying it.

“What a lovely name. Well, Silver, since I ruined your meal, let me repay you. Order whatever you want and as much as you want,” Mortar said cheerfully.

“Fine then,” Chrysalis replied, sitting back down. She was still tired and hungry, at that moment wanting nothing more than the same sandwich. “I want another sandwich, the same one I had,” Chrysalis demanded.

“Very well then, m’lady!” Mortar said enthusiastically. “Rye, can you bring another sandwich for this mare here? I ruined her previous one.” He turned to Chrysalis. “Do not fret; I will pay for it.”

The older waitress came out of the shop, waving a hoof. “Of course, Mortar. I will bring it right away.”

Smiling, Mortar took a seat across from Chrysalis. Her ear flicked in annoyance, but she could not just tell him to leave if he was paying for the food. “So,” Mortar said while smiling at Chrysalis. “What brings an earth pony here to Canterlot? Last time I checked this city is heavily populated by unicorns. Not that often I see another earth pony, especially if they are not of the elite.”

Chrysalis looked at him warily. “How do you know that I am not an elite? What if I am one?” Chrysalis said a little harshly. I am elite. I am ROYALTY, damn it!

“Woah now, no need to get defensive. I figured that for a couple reasons. First, the upper-class ponies always wear some article of clothing. Second, an upper-class pony wouldn't be caught dead at this commoners’ establishment. They would have to go to some classy and overpriced place. And lastly, you just seem different somehow—I can’t put my hoof on it.” Mortar answered, saying every word with care to make sure he did not offend the mare.

“I am taking a temporary residence here,” Chrysalis replied crossly. “If earth ponies are so rare here, then why are you here?”

Mortar smiled. “I am a stone mason, as you can tell by your previous sandwich. I live and work here, just like my family before me. My ancestors built and maintained Canterlot, and I plan on doing the same. I am currently trying to fix the Breads’ bakery. Their building was damaged during the changelings’ attack. One of them lil’ buggers blew right through the wall.”

Chrysalis turned her head away, avoiding eye contact. She did not want it to be known that she was responsible for all the damage.

“I feel bad about it, you know. There was a lot of damage done,” Mortar said.

“But don’t you profit off that? I mean, with all the damage you should have a lot of work,” Chrysalis asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Well yeah, but still. A lot of good ponies got their property damaged. Yeah, the work is good, and it is giving me a lot of bits, but still. They suffer, yet I profit; it does not feel right,” Mortar replied solemnly.

Chrysalis stared at him. Why should he feel bad? Because of me, he is doing well! Why should he care about his customers?

Mortar sighed, resting his head on his hoof and bringing his other on the table.

Chrysalis noticed numerous scars on his forehooves. “How did you get those?” she asked, pointing a hoof.

Mortar snapped to attention, glad that the subject was changed. “Well, I am a stone mason; I work with my hooves,” Mortar replied as he beamed with pride. “That and I am a tad clumsy at times. Accidents happen.”

Chrysalis was going to push the issue further but stopped when Rye placed the sandwich before her. Grabbing it, she voraciously devoured it, not caring how she looked or about the mess she made. Mortar stared at the tan mare in shock and amazement. He opened his mouth to say something but closed it when Chrysalis finished eating and stared at him.

“More,” Chrysalis demanded.

Obeying, Mortar ordered another one. When the second sandwich came out, she attacked it like the first. This pattern continued, the plates next to her stacking and making a tower. After her fifth sandwich she finally stopped, putting her head on the table to rest with a satisfied smile. Mortar looked at her with concern.

“Silver,” Mortar said quietly.

“What?” Chrysalis asked harshly, not bothering to lift her head off the table.

“Is everything all right?” Mortar asked.

“Yes,” she lied.

“You are lying.”

Chrysalis lifted her head from the table, staring daggers at Mortar. “I am fine. Now go pay for my meal and leave me alone,” she demanded.

“I am not going to pay for it unless you tell me what is wrong,” he replied.

“I told you, I am fine! Why can’t you understand that?” Chrysalis said, annoyance in her voice. She squinted at him.

“Yeah, no pony, or anything for that matter, eats like that unless they are starving. I know something is wrong, so unless you want to pay for that nice stack of food you just devoured...” His facial expression hardened.

Chrysalis glared at him, “I am low on bits,” she answered softly, looking away.

“Do you not have a job?” Mortar asked, concerned.

“I got fired,” she said flatly, remembering the insolent fool she had attacked.

“Well, if you need a job, I know where you can get one,” he said.

“I do not need your pity or your help,” Chrysalis replied quickly.

“I am not pitying you—everypony could use help once in a while. Look, I know the owners of this bakery, and I know that they are short on staff. The only ponies who run the shop are Sourdough and his wife Rye. When it gets busy, they are overworked. They could really use a waiter,” Mortar said.

“I do not want to be a waiter. I do not want to deal with those insolent customers,”

Chrysalis said stubbornly.

“Yeah, that is true. You meet jerks no matter what job you have. Sadly, it is a part of life. But that does not mean you can’t take advantage of them. A good waitress could easily play with some customers,” Mortar said slyly.

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. She liked the idea of toying with ponies. That was what she was used to. “And how would I do that?” Chrysalis asked, taking the bait.

“Well, a good waitress can charm her customers, making them give up bigger tips. It would be easy to control the younger colts, if you catch my drift. A bat of the eyelashes or a simple wink can have them eating out of your hooves.”

Chrysalis smiled mischievously at the idea.

Mortar smiled back, knowing his plan worked. He wanted to help this mare because he could just tell that she was going through a lot. It was very hard for ponies not to have a job in Equestria. He figured something must be going on. He could also tell from the way she carried herself that she was a very proud pony who probably would never accept help outright. He had to sweeten his words to point her in the right direction.

“Now, of course you are going to have to deal with the inevitable jerk. Just go along with their ego so they leave faster. Do not think of this as help—think of it as an offer.”

Chrysalis mulled the idea over. She needed bits, and she needed a job. The prospect of using her charms and wits to manipulate pleased her. She did not want help from anypony. However, as Mortar said, it was an “offer.” Technically, he is not helping me if he is offering something.

“Fine, I will accept your offer,” she said after a long pause.

“Great!” Mortar exclaimed. “Now I am curious. What was your previous job?”

“I was a waiter at The Garden.”

“Really? How in Equestria did you get a job there? That place is so selective with both its customers and its workers. They do not let just anypony walk in there for a job,” Mortar said, shocked.

Chrysalis just looked at him with a confused look. “That is exactly what I did,” she remarked.

“Wow! Then you must have really won them over or something. You must be an expert to do that. But if you got accepted, how did you get fired?” Mortar asked.

“I slammed a platter of food into somepony’s face. I think his name was Blueblood,” Chrysalis said nonchalantly.

Mortar’s eyes widened and his jaw dropped “You assaulted Prince Blueblood? Princess Celestia’s distant nephew?”

“Wait, what? You mean that bastard is related to Celestia?” Chrysalis began to panic. It had only been a day, and she had already attacked a relative of Celestia. She did not want to be dragged off by the guard and thrown in a dark cell. Chrysalis started to hyperventilate, trying to think of a way to escape.

Mortar however fell on the ground bursting into laughter, clutching his sides.

“This is not funny! I am in a dire situation right now,” Chrysalis shouted.

Mortar finally caught his breath. “I cannot believe you did that! You have no idea just how badly I wanted to see that. I would pay so much to see that jerk get what he deserves. You do not need to worry—you should be fine.”

“What do you mean?”

“This is not the first time a pony has attacked Blueblood. Celestia knows he is an ass, so I do not think she would care. As long as you did not cause any permanent injury, you should be fine,” Mortar explained.

“But can’t he just imprison me?” Chrysalis asked worriedly.

“If the guards actually imprisoned all the ponies Blueblood wants to lock up, there would be no pony left in Equestria. He may have the title of a prince, but he pretty much has little power. The only thing he can do is make the nobility suck up to him. With the way he acts, Celestia would not allow him to have any power,” Mortar said.

Chrysalis began to calm down. “So I should be fine?” she asked.

“Yep! Now let us go meet with Rye and Sourdough. I bet they would be pleased to know that they could have an extra set of hooves. Don’t worry—they are a really nice couple,” Mortar replied as he led Chrysalis into the bakery.

Celestia examined the report in front of her. She was a little upset to find out that Chrysalis had attacked another pony. However, given Chrysalis’ current situation and the fact it was Blueblood, it was not surprising. Celestia was surprised, however, that Chrysalis did manage to get a job so quickly—and at such a fancy place, no less. Celestia knew that Blueblood was extremely hard to be around, and she bet that he had insulted Chrysalis. Chrysalis’ pride would probably not stand for that. Still, she could not just beat up every pony who upset her.

Celestia tapped a hoof on her chin, thinking. She would let the incident slide just this once. Blueblood could use a lesson in humility.

“Begone this instant! I must speak to the Princess; I have dire news of a threat against Equestria!” a pony outside shouted.

“No,” one of the guards replied. “The Princess is not taking any visitors right now.”

“Guards, who is out there right now?” Celestia asked. She did not have to ask, though; it was obvious who it was.

“It is Prince Blueblood, Your Highness,” the other guard answered.

Celestia sighed. “Let him in,” she finally said.

“I told you this was a dire emergency! Hmph,” Blueblood said as he opened the door.

It took all of Celestia’s experience of being a ruler to not burst out laughing. Blueblood came in with his nose and chin held high, arrogant as ever. His nose was completely swollen, and he had a black eye. It was a hilarious sight indeed.

Resisting the urge to laugh, Celestia put on a regal countenance. “Prince Blueblood, I am busy at the moment. What is the matter that requires my urgent attention?” she said calmly.

“Princess, there is a threat to Equestria. Just earlier I was attacked!” Blueblood explained dramatically. “Just look at my face!”

“And who, pray tell, attacked you, Blueblood?” Celestia asked, her tone not changing.

“Some waitress attacked me when I was at a restaurant! I demand that she be thrown in prison for life!” Blueblood said.

“And why would some waitress attack you?”

“I do not know! She just attacked me out of the blue,” Blueblood snorted.

“You did not call her anything now, did you?” Celestia asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I called her what she was, a lowly peasant who was late delivering my food. I did nothing wrong,” Blueblood said.

Celestia’s faced hardened, and she gave Blueblood a stern look. “Blueblood, how many times have I told you that there is no difference between you or any other pony? You cannot treat ponies like that, ever,” she said harshly.

Blueblood wilted at the hard words, backing up a little and stammering. “B—but she—”

“No buts, Blueblood. I am very tired of telling you this. You are not more important. You treat ponies the way you want to be treated. You insulted that mare, so she insulted and hit you. If you want to be treated with respect, then you must respect others, regardless of where they come from,” Celestia continued as she got up, looking down at Blueblood.

Blueblood shrank under her gaze. “P—Princess, she...” he mumbled.

“Enough, Blueblood! This is the last time I will give you this lesson. If I hear that you do this again, there will be consequences. Now leave at once, ”Celestia stated, stamping her hoof for emphasis. Blueblood scurried out of the room, his tail between his legs.

Closing the door, Celestia sighed. She really did not like being the strict, harsh teacher, but she had given Blueblood too many chances already. She hoped that this would be the last time she heard something like this. Celestia was tired of all the complaints against Blueblood. She did care for him, but that did not mean she would not be strict with him.

Lying back down, she got back to her paperwork. She let out a light chuckle. “I am impressed. For a small mare like her, she throws a mean hoof.”

VII: A Waltz

A month had passed since Chrysalis’ judgement. Slowly but surely she was adjusting to the life of an average pony. Chrysalis’ life was becoming more routine. After her first encounter with Mortar Brick, she was able to land a job at the bakery where they had met. It was extremely easy for her. The bakery needed an extra worker, and Chrysalis could easily act her way into any job.

Taking the suggestion from Mortar Brick, she easily played with her customers. If they were a young male, she would bat her eyelashes and flick her tail under their chin they would instantly fall for her, at which point she could make them do whatever she wanted. Her words were filled with honey, and the colts in return could only give her their money.

Young males were not her only targets; everypony was. Regardless of age, gender, or relationship status, she could make them like her. After her employment, the bakery experienced a significant increase in profits.

However, just because she was very good at her job did not mean she enjoyed it. While she did like knowing that she could easily control ponies, she still hated serving them. It left a taste of bile in her mouth. In fact, it might have driven her insane if it were not for Mortar Brick.

Every day after work, Chrysalis would eat dinner with Mortar at the bakery. There she would vent all of her problems dealing with customers, and he would nod and agree with everything she said. Luckily for both of them, Mortar had numerous jobs around the bakery as that street had been hit particularly badly during the changeling attack. He could always make it to dinner with Silver Skip.

“And then, she thought I messed up the order! Can you believe it? I do not make mistakes! She ordered a salad with no cheese, so when I gave exactly that, she looked at me straight in the face and then told me she ordered it with cheese! So insufferable! How dare she make false claims against me!” Chrysalis said sternly, waiving a hoof for emphasis.

“Oh, how awful of her!” Mortar said dramatically. “How dare she question your intellect.”

“I know!” Chrysalis said before taking a bite of her food.

In the month that Mortar had known Chrysalis, he had learned that the best way to pacify her was to stroke her ego. She would instantly calm down and relax when talking to Mortar.

Sweet Celestia, Mortar thought as he rested his head against his hoof, watching Chrysalis vent and eat, she is cute when she is angry. It is as if she demands that the world bow to her.

Mortar continued to stare at Chrysalis, watching bangs of her mane fall on her face as she ranted on. Oh Luna, I think I am falling for her.

At that same moment, Princess Celestia was lying on her bed, a mirror levitating in front of with her magic. The mirror in front of Celestia did not show her reflection but instead showed Chrysalis and Mortar eating dinner together.

“Oh my, she is making a friend—and it has only been a month,” Celestia said quietly to herself as she watched the two. She did feel guilty about watching them, but after she had been told that Chrysalis was associating with somepony, she could not resist. Celestia was elated that Chrysalis had possibly made a friend. She hoped that Chrysalis could now understand the importance of relationships and friendship.

“Why, hello, sister!” Luna called out from behind her.

Celestia jumped a little bit, quickly hiding the mirror under a mound of pillows as she turned around to face Luna on her balcony.

“Luna!” Celestia replied with surprise in her voice. “What are you doing here?”

“Now, sister, I do recall you telling me that I am welcome in your room. Have you forgotten that already?” Luna asked as she feigned being hurt, holding one hoof to her chest and another to her forehead.

Celestia smiled. “Of course not, sister. I am just wondering why you would use the balcony instead of the door.”

“’Tis simple,” Luna said as she jumped next to Celetia, lying next to her on the bed. “It is quicker to fly to your balcony than it is to walk to your room.”

“I see,” Celestia replied as she put her forehooves over the mound of pillows in front of her, subtly bringing it closer to her chest.

Luna raised an eyebrow as she noticed Celestia’s slight movements. “So, sister...”

“Yes?” Celestia said, smiling at her.

“What are you hiding beneath those pillows there?” Luna asked, a mischievous grin on her face.

Celestia, as regal as ever, kept her composure. “Whatever are you talking about, Luna?”

Luna gave Celestia a serious look. With a flash of her horn, she reached under the stack of pillows in front of Celestia and yanked out the mirror. “And what, pray tell, is this?”

Celestia sighed in defeat. “You caught me.”

Luna flared open her wings as she examined the mirror. “Is that Chrysalis? Sister, I know she tried to invade Canterlot, but don’t you think this is a tad invasive? We have her under constant watch by the guard. This seems a bit excessive.”

Celestia could only give an innocent look. “I know, Luna, but when I heard that she had made a friend, I simply could not resist. It has only been a month! I mean, just look at them. I can tell she is not acting in front of him—she is being herself. I could not help myself—I just had to see it with my own eyes. To think, Chrysalis would slowly open herself up,” Celestia replied.

Luna smiled as she moved closer to Celestia, holding the mirror up in front of both of them. “It is surprising indeed. She is fitting in very well. Just who is that pony she is talking to?”

“Well, according to the records, his name is Mortar Brick. He is one of the few stonemasons in Canterlot and is currently employed by us to help fix the damage,” Celestia replied.

Luna peered closer at the mirror, a smile slowly appearing on her face. “My my, she is making more than a friend, sister. That poor colt is smitten with her!”

Celestia eyes widened. “Really? How can you tell?”

“Just look at his body posture and the way he looks at her—those daydreaming eyes, the relaxed body posture, and that helpless grin on his face. That is a pony stricken with love. I would know—I am the mistress of the night, the time of lovers,” Luna said, making a dramatic poise. “Something I wish I had known a thousand years ago,” she finished softly, her wings deflating as she brought her hoof down. Tears began to form in her eyes.

“Oh Luna,” Celestia softly said, hugging her sister.

“I—I am sorry, sister. If only I knew back then the things I know now. I am so sorry,” Luna quietly whispered, turning her head away from Celestia.

Celestia pulled Luna closer and embraced her. “Luna, I already forgave you a thousand years ago. That is in the past now. You know that I will always love you, no matter what.”

Luna sniffed, leaning her head against Celestia. “It is not just that. Again I have failed you. I wanted to execute her, sister. How could I ever want something so terrible?”

“Oh, Luna, I know you have a good heart and I know you never wanted it. You just let your emotions get the better of you. We all make mistakes, Luna. You must stop being so hard on yourself,” Celestia quietly said, nuzzling her.

“Then I have not learned a thing! If I let my emotions control me back then, and if I let them control me now, then have I learned anything?” Luna replied, looking up at Celestia.

“Luna, we all make mistakes. I know you have learned your lessons from the past. That does not mean we are immune to making mistakes. Even I let my emotions get the better of me on multiple occasions. Remember during Shining Armor and Cadence’s wedding when I blatantly ignored my student’s warnings? The look on Twilight’s face still hurts me now. I failed Twilight. Luna, what you must do is move forward. Now hush. I do not wish to see you sad like this. You need not worry, Luna—I will always love you.” Celestia said, hugging Luna more tightly.

Luna relaxed. “Thank you, sister,” she replied. “You know, maybe we should help them.”

All right, Mortar thought, sitting down across from Chrysalis for their daily meetup, you can do this. Do not look weak—she does not like weak ponies.

Chrysalis, however, was resting her head on a forehoof and tapping the table with the other. She gave Mortar a hard look as he sat down. “You are late. I do not like waiting,” she said sternly.

“I know, I know. Don’t get your tail in a knot,” Mortar replied.

Chrysalis, in return, just glared harder at him.

“Now, don’t look at me like that. Besides, the reason I am late is that I managed to get something you may like,” Mortar said.

“And what would that be?” Chrysalis asked, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Well, one of my clients ended up being the manager of Canterlot’s Wine Cellar, and he actually offered me a reservation,” Mortar answered, a large grin on his face.

“And what is that?” Chrysalis replied with a confused look.

Mortar stared at her in shock. “You mean you really don’t know? It is the most famous restaurant in Equestria! Reservations are nearly impossible to get without some royal connection. They say its food and wine are legendary!” Mortar exclaimed.

Chrysalis, however, did not look too impressed. “If it is so selective, then why would you get a reservation? It seems they would not allow commoners like yourself.”

“They don’t. But it was really strange—I was just hired there do a very small patch job. When I was finished, the manager offered me a reservation. He told me it was a ‘special gift’ for my hard work. Honestly, I have no idea how I got it. But that does not matter! The point is that we got a reservation!” Mortar said eagerly.

“We?” Chrysalis asked, giving Mortar a suspicious look.

Mortar looked around nervously before sitting up straight and puffing out his chest. “Well, it would be a shame for me to go alone. I was wondering if you would like to come along,” Mortar answered, trying to sound confident.

“I do not need your pity!” Chrysalis quickly remarked, turning her head away.

Right on cue, Mortar thought. “It is not pity, Silver. I have an extra spot open and was wondering if you would like to come. I mean, you have been serving ponies for a while now. I think it is only right that you be served by other ponies.”

Chrysalis scrunched up her face in thought. He is right. I do deserve to be treated. However...

“Are you asking me out on a date?” Chrysalis asked suspiciously.

Mortar’s eyes widened for a second before he collected himself. “As friends,” he replied quickly.

“Fine,” Chrysalis replied, “if you are paying.”

“Of course; it is what a gentlecolt should do,” Mortar said.

Chrysalis looked around as they walked through the restaurant, noticing the stares the both Mortar and her were getting. A soft background music from the restaurant’s band filled the air.

“Why are they looking at us?” Chrysalis whispered to Mortar.

“Probably because we are not wearing clothes. I don’t think they are used to seeing ponies like us. Pay no heed to them,” Mortar replied.

As they were seated, Chrysalis looked around at the room, surprised by the exuberance of the place. “This looks a lot like the inside of the palace,” Chrysalis remarked.

“You know what the inside of the palace looks like?” Mortar asked, surprised.

“I have seen pictures,” she quickly replied, continuing to survey the surroundings.

Mortar shrugged as a waiter came to their table. “Welcome, monsieur et madame,” the waiter said in a thick accent. “Would you two care for some vintage pinot noir?”

Mortar blushed and looked nervously at Chrysalis. He knew he had to pay for both their dinners, but expensive wine was way out of his budget. He was trying to impress her, but he had to admit defeat. His shoulders slumped, and he sighed to himself. “Sorry, but I do not have enough bits.”

“Not a problem, monsieur. The wine is on the house,” the waiter replied.

Mortar’s ears perked, looking up at the waiter in disbelief. “Wait, what? Why?

“The management told us to give it to you," the waiter answered

Well, if that is the case, then yes, we will take it!” Mortar eagly replied.

The waiter gave a slight bow as he trotted off.

Chrysalis gave Mortar a puzzled look, who just smiled sheepishly and said, “Um... lucky break, I guess?”

After the moment of awkward silence, the waiter came back carrying a bottle of wine and two glasses. After diligently pouring two glasses out, he levitated the glasses out to Mortar and Chrysalis.

Chrysalis in return only stared at the glass in front of her, watching the red liquid swirl. In all of her life, she had never tried a drop of alcohol. She never had access to it as a changeling, and when she was in disguise she dared not try it. She had heard stories of alcohol’s intoxicating effects and how it makes one lose their concentration. Chrysalis had been afraid that if she tried it while she was in disguise, her cover would be blown.

However, she wore no disguise this time. She looked at the wine with furrowed brows, debating whether she should try it. Chrysalis looked up to see Mortar nudging the glass in her direction encouragingly. She slowly picked the glass up and placed it under her nose, smelling the wine. Her eyes widened and her ears perked.

It smells wonderful, she thought. Placing the glass on her lips, she gave it a small sip. As she tasted the wine, she let out a small moan. Not even her first glorious sandwich could compare to the taste of her beverage. She looked up to see Mortar grinning at her. She quickly turned her head away while slightly blushing.

“What?” Chrysalis said flatly.

“You seem to be enjoying yourself,” said Mortar with a hint of a question in his voice.

Chrysalis in return just gave a simple “hmph” and returned to her drink.

After a couple glasses of wine and a belly full of food, Chrysalis was feeling very relaxed. She started to feel the alcohol's effects and they were not unpleasant. Her face was flushed and she felt a nice buzz. Never in her life had she been this relaxed and content. The food was great, the wine was better, and she could hear beautiful music playing in the background. She wanted time to stop at that moment.

Chrysalis’ ears perked up as she heard the music change. Opening an eye, she glanced at Mortar, who was also enjoying himself. Resting her back, she closed her eyes and let the music soothe her.

“Silver...” Mortar said hesitantly.

“Yes?” Chrysalis replied, opening her eyes.

Taking a deep breath, Mortar puffed out his chest and tried to look as confident as ever. “Would you care for a dance?” he asked.

Chrysalis looked at him for a moment, a blank expression on her face. Truth be told, she loved dancing. For her, dancing was another way to control a pony. Instead of using disguises or manipulation, she could physically control the actions of another being. When she danced, she was the one who led—she could control her partner’s movements and actions. For her, it brought her a great sense of power and pleasure knowing that she could control someone both mentally and physically.

“I accept your offer,” Chrysalis calmly replied as she got on her hooves, making her way to the dance floor. Mortar stood on his hind legs, holding out a hoof towards Chrysalis. The two ponies leaned on each other, their bodies touching. Time stood still for them both as they gazed into each other’s eyes.

The music started, a beautiful waltz filling the room. Chrysalis gave a small gasp as not she but Mortar took the lead. They moved smoothly across the dance floor, Mortar controlling the pace and Chrysalis’ actions. She had never let anyone dictate her life, but here, a measly, common earth pony was controlling her. Chrysalis was stunned, not knowing what to do as she followed Mortar’s lead.

How—how dare he lead! Chrysalis thought, stunned by the whole ordeal. It should be me that leads!

Still, she continued as she leaned on Mortar, it is not that bad.

They continued on, each step in time with the music. Chrysalis looked at Mortar’s face, which was scrunched up in deep concentration and looking at the ground. As they continued, the music sped up, and Mortar was having an increasingly difficult time keeping up.

Then it dawned on her. Mortar was trying to impress her—not some disguise or façade, but her. This whole ordeal—the dinner and the dance—was an attempt to impress her. For the first time, someone was willing to be with her.

Chrysalis did not know what to think; everything was happening at such a fast pace. Her life had changed. Her crown had been stripped, her powers had been removed, and her army was gone—she knew she had to be angry, but she could not. This is... nice, she finally thought. For once, in that moment of time, there was no burden on her back. She could enjoy herself. In that moment everything felt right, though she had no idea why she felt that way. Chrysalis could not put a hoof on why she felt content at that moment. Was it the delicious food, the wonderful wine, or the lovely music?

She cared not what the reason was and just enjoyed it. However, she knew Mortar was struggling with the faster tempo. Taking the initiative, she began to lead, much to Mortar’s relief. Together they danced as one, and it was wonderful to behold.

After their dinner and dance, Mortar decided to walk Chrysalis home. As they made their way up to Chrysalis’ apartment, Mortar turned around and looked at Chrysalis.

“Silver,” he said, “thanks for tonight. It was wonderful.”

“It was nice,” Chrysalis replied.

“Well, I wish we could do more, but sadly I have to work early in the morning. Also I should let you get your rest. Same time tomorrow, I assume?” Mortar asked.

“Of course,” she replied with a light smile on her face.

With that, they gave each other a small nod. Mortar walked away, and Chrysalis entered her apartment.

Chrysalis opened the door to her home and nearly skipped inside. As she made her way in, the music of the waltz that was playing still lingered on in her mind and she hummed its tune. As she had made a habit of doing since she had been punished, she gazed at herself in the mirror. By that time she had become accustomed to seeing her tan coat and silvery mane. Yet when she looked upon her face, she saw something that was truly amiss.

The night’s events had stretched her mouth into a grin. It was not huge, but it was a grin nonetheless. The unfamiliarity of the smile surprised her. It was so strange, she thought, that even though she should be used to seeing herself in this form, the very sight of herself smiling seemed alien. For a moment, she could not understand why this was and pondered over the thought. Yet then an answer came to her, rising swiftly from a dark region of her mind. Maybe, just maybe, she had allowed herself to become content. This realization, which would have seemed very foul to her before, caused something within her mind to snap.

At first, when she continued to stare into the mirror, she thought that her vision was going bad because her reflection was becoming darker. Her tan fur was becoming black and her silver mane was darkening to a blue. It was then that she saw her vision itself was not faulty—the figure in front of her was not merely changing color, but its very shape and size were morphing. At first, she thought it was the wine that was making her hallucinate, but when the image solidified and took form, she knew it not to be so.

She was no longer looking at Silver Skip. The form in front of her now had mangled but long legs that gave her a terrible height. Her coat was the blackest shade of gray and her mane a dark cerulean. The earth pony’s plain body had been adorned with a twisted horn and a pair of diaphanous wings, and on her head she wore the pronged crown of the changeling queen. The Chrysalis in the mirror looked down at the Silver Skip in the real world and opened her mouth to speak, revealing four ivory fangs.

“So you’ve been having fun, haven’t you?” the changeling asked with a regal voice.

“I guess I have,” Silver Skip replied, undaunted.

The queen raised an eye. “And yet you’ve come no closer to taking revenge?”

“I’ve been working on it even though it’s been slow.”

“Slow?” Chrysalis shouted. “You done nothing but waste time since the day you were thrown into the streets of this damned city!”

“Well, it’s not like this has been a cakewalk, in case you haven’t noticed. Celestia’s guards have been watching my every move.”

“And it will be even less easy if you aren’t even trying. The only thing you have actually tried to do as of yet is flirt with that thing who calls you a friend rather than a mortal enemy of this country,” the image in the mirror returned swiftly.

The pony stomped her right hoof. “You know what? So what if I’ve been enjoying myself a little? I need a break! If you remember, starving is not the most pleasant feeling we have experienced. Being forcibly turned into something else is not as easy as it sounds.”

Chrysalis paused for a moment as though she was shocked to hear that response. Then suddenly her eyes burned with fury. “Your idea of a ‘break’ is to swoon over that thing?” she whispered poisonously. “Have you forgotten that he is food to you?”

Silver didn’t want to admit even to herself that she had enjoyed Mortar’s company. Avoiding Chrysalis’ stare, she quickly made an excuse. “Look, this way I can kill two birds with one stone. First, my being around him fights off loneliness. Fighting against Celestia or not, I still have needs. Second, because I’m halfway enjoying myself, I’m getting revenge on Celestia in a way because I’m leeching off one of her subject.”

Again the image’s voice yelled, “Is that your excuse for displaying an infatuation with this thing?”

The real her raised her voice as well. “Do not dare to suggest such a thing! I am not infatuated with him.”

Chrysalis ignored her. “Do you know what differentiates the changeling between the common, mute animal? The changeling can stave off her base desire. Are you an animal who can’t control her urges?”

Until this time, Silver had maintained a degree of restraint, but this suggestion riled her. “Of course not! I mean that I can’t go on like this forever.”

“You fool! You are playing into the adversary’s hooves. Did she not say that her very intention for not executing you was to force you to make a ‘friend’? Is it not enough that you have been appallingly humiliated? Need I remind you that your crown was ripped from your head and your army and subjects vanquished? The enemy would not even honor you with a beautiful death! Rather than being released from this struggle, you have been imprisoned in a foreign land to live among aliens. Yet most horrifically, your beautiful form has been stripped from you. Not only do you look like fodder, but worse, the weakest form was forced upon you. Would you stoop even lower than this?”

These words were making Silver Skip angrier by the second. For a while, she had overlooked those things, but now they were coming back to her, the cold, hard chains of hatred and wrath enveloping her heart. Chrysalis continued, “It is bad enough that these evils were forced on you, but now you want to bend to the will of this ‘wise and just arbiter’? This is exactly what she wants! You’ve been here for only a month and you’re already giving in?”

The pony responded with gritted teeth, “I am not giving in.”

“And yet you are acting like it. Other than your inconsequential whining, you are acting just like one of these ponies that serves your enemy. How soon will it be before you become one yourself? You were once a mighty and powerful queen. Your very command caused an army to descend upon this city and, your power, charged with the energy you had claimed, struck down its ruler. Yet how long will it be before you call her ‘Princess’ as all these others do? How long will it be before you forget this fight altogether and become like the rabble?”

The words flowing from the mouth of the image in the mirror engulfed the earth pony like a river of hatred, washing away any joy she once had and leaving behind only seething wrath. “I will never give up.”

The black queen’s voice rose to a shout. “Like them, you will focus on this pony you call ‘friend’ and on your pitiful willing servitude. Before long you will grow content with giving half of what you own to the enemy herself in what they call ‘taxes’ and half of your time to this one who will win you over with sweet words. The one who was once queen of the changelings will become a slave and play toy of Equestria. You will live in this city, bound to your desires and obedient to your adversary’s will. And worst of all, to your so-called ‘acquaintance.’ You will live like that until there is no vitality or individuality left in you. Then you will grow old and even more hideous than you are now, and the few short years of your life will be gone. You may have been born as a queen, but unless you stand up and fight against Celestia now with the little strength you have left, you will live and die as a slave. Once the proud predator now reduced to nothing but something to be preyed upon. Is that what you desire?”

Hearing these words, the real Chrysalis’ anger gave way to full-blown rage, and she shouted, “Celestia, I will never kneel to you. I will escape this prison! I will rebuild my army and burn your precious land to the ground!”

With a primal shout, she turned around and bucked the cabinet next to her. Screaming, she began to wreck the apartment that she had once maintained. The image of Chrysalis remained in the mirror, grinning wickedly, eyes filled with bloodlust.

VIII: Ballad of the Fallen Angels

A light fog shrouded Canterlot in the early morning as the moon moved closer to the horizon, ready to switch its place with the sun. Standing on one of the many towers that dotted the city, Chrysalis gazed into the horizon and the land below her.

This is it, Chrysalis thought. It starts today. I will leave this accursed city and burn it to ashes.

Chrysalis knew that over the past month her life had become very routine. She was confident that she could evade the city’s guards if she left before dawn. However she berated herself for letting herself get comfortable in her new environment. How could she have become so soft?

And if I must, she continued, shivering a little at the thought, I will kill anything that stands in my way.

Taking a deep breath, she took her first step, the turning point of her new life.

Mortar Brick was sitting in his bosun's chair, busy patching a hole on one of Canterlot's old towers, a remnant of the bygone days when Canterlot served as a fortress. It was now left open as a tourist attraction so that non-pegasi could get a bird’s eye view of the royal city.

Nothing could ruin Mortar’s mood that day. Last night was the best night he’d ever had—he knew he had accomplished his goal of impressing Silver. That genuine smile on her face was proof of his success. She was never the expressive type, but he had finally seen her truly happy. He could not wait until their daily get-together.

I wonder if I have a chance with her. Oh Celestia, that would be great to finally have a fillyfriend—hopefully maybe even more. A family and foals—that sounds nice, Mortar thought, sliding a brick into place.

Grinning from ear to ear, he began to whistle the waltz from last night.

Chrysalis was about to enter the stairwell when her ear twitched. A light melody filled the early morning air.

That song, she thought. It is from last night.

She turned and walked around, trying to find the source of the music. She could not find anypony, yet the music remained. In the corner of her eye she noticed some ropes that were tied to the edge of the tower. After walking slowly towards it, she carefully peered over the edge. Her eyes widened upon seeing Mortar Brick.

It was him! Chrysalis thought, her face tightening in anger. He was the one that made me soft. He was the one that interrupted my plans. He has been in my way from the very beginning. Before he threw himself at me, I was on the right path towards sweet and triumphant vengeance. I effortlessly landed a job in one of the most selective restaurants in the city. When I flaunted my powers, a prince cowered before me. But when I was at my weakest, he struck swiftly.

By his malicious words I became enfeebled by the malicious disease of complacence, enslaving myself to these peasants. Slowly their way became mine. The trap of oblivion had ensnared me. Ultimately, I would have been kneeling before the very adversary I once fought against had it not been for fate. Yet, though I have regained my soul, he has robbed me of something that I cannot reclaim. I have wasted so many days in this sinkhole, all because of him. I hate him now with a burning passion that puts the cold flames of Celestia’s sun to shame.

“You...” Chrysalis hissed as she stared down at Mortar.

Mortar’s ears perked when he heard a familiar voice. Looking up, he saw Chrysalis staring down at him.

“Silver!” Mortar exclaimed with glee as he waved a hoof at her. However, upon closer inspection he could see that she was not sharing the same feeling. His ears flattened and his smile vanished. She was glaring at him with anger.

“S—Silver, is something wrong?” he asked meekly. He had never seen Chrysalis this angry before.

“You filthy peasant! This is all your fault. You are the one that ruined my plans! Pray that I never see your face again!” Chrysalis shouted with a look of disgust on her face, quickly turning her head away as she made her way out of his view. Stupid fool! How dare he make me weak.

His tools fell out of his hooves. What did I do wrong? Mortar thought frantically. Was this because of last night? Oh no, did she think I was trying to take advantage of her? Did I insult her? Was I too forward?

As Chrysalis walked out of view, he could see his happy future disappear. The mare of his dreams was quickly falling out of his hooves—the image of a happy life was replaced by loneliness and a sense of urgency.

No! he thought. I have to fix this! I know I can if I can just talk to her. Hurry, Mortar, before she leaves your life for good!

“S—Silver!” Mortar shouted desperately as he fumbled with his hooves on his rigging, trying to get up as quickly as possible. “Wait! Let’s talk! I will be right there; just give me a sec—”

In his haste, Mortar accidentally leaned too far back, causing the bosun’s chair to tilt backwards, and he fell out of his harness. He desperately tried to grab onto the chair with a hoof, but it was just out of reach. His eyes widened, filled with terror, and his life flashed before him.

A scream of primal fear echoed loudly in the air.

Chrysalis’ ears flicked in response to the sudden yell behind her. Quickly turning around, she looked over the edge of the tower to see Mortar falling out of his bosun’s chair. Her eyes widened and her pupils shrank as she saw the terror in Mortar’s face as he desperately reached a hoof out in the air. Without thinking, she tried to reach a hoof out to him.

As he fell, images and memories from the previous month flashed before her eyes—the day they met, their usual get-togethers, and finally the dance from last night. She turned deathly pale.

No, she thought, this is not supposed to happen. Grab something, you fool! Just stop. Stop! STOP!

Mortar’s mane blew wildly in his face, and the wind howled in his ears. Time moved slowly. He was scared. It was not fair; he was only so young. He had met the mare of his dreams, and now he was literally falling away from her.

As he looked up one last time, he saw Chrysalis holding out her hoof, her eyes filled with horror. Tears began to fill his eyes as the images of the times with her flooded his memory, especially the dance from last night.

“Is it too much to ask,” Mortar softly cried to himself as he fell, “for one more night like that with her?”

Moments later, a sickening thud echoed in the early morning air, followed by a loud scream.

IX: A Demon Awakens

Celestia, as graceful as ever, was busy sleeping in her in private chamber. Even in her sleep she was able to compose her regal posture, her mane quietly swaying in the solar winds.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

Celestia’s eyes slowly opened. She stretched her neck as she let out a yawn.

Don’t tell me I overslept and need to raise the sun., she thought as she stretched out her body. Her internal clock told her that it was still too early, and a quick look at the clock near her bed confirmed that.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Your Highness! I have urgent news regarding that pony you wanted us to watch. There has just been an incident.”

Celestia’s eyes instantly shot open. A small sense of anxiety began to nip at her. What could possibly have happened? I thought she was doing well when she made a friend with that earth pony stallion.

With a glow of her horn, the doors to her room quickly opened. A young white pegasus guard quickly trotted in, and a solid thud echoed behind him as the doors slammed shut.

“What happened?” Celestia asked, a bit of anxiety in her voice.

The guard gave a quick bow and pulled a scroll from his armor. Opening it, he began to read, “Your Highness, at approximately 4:37 a.m. this morning, one of the patrolling guards in the northern sector heard a loud scream. Upon arriving, he found the mare Silver Skip next to the mangled form of Mortar Brick. He appeared to have fallen from tower number four. Paramedics were immediately called to the scene. They quickly arrived and carried him to Canterlot General Hospital. He is currently undergoing extensive surgery. His condition is extremely critical and, to be honest, is looking very grim.

“The incident appears to have been an accident. Business records indicate that Mortar Brick was hired specially by the government to work on tower number four, which was damaged in the recent changeling attack. Upon closer inspection there seems to have been no tampering with his equipment, which was completely intact when the guard arrived. Silver Skip appeared to be delusional when we arrived. She made no attempt to escape. However, given her special circumstances, we felt that we had to inform you immediately. Unfortunately, we were not able to witness what happened. It seems she broke completely from her routine, which, up to now, has been very consistent.”

Celestia twitched slightly, her mouth open a little. Her wings flicked anxiously. She quickly sat up straight in an effort to compose herself. “Tell me,” she said calmly, “where is Silver Skip right now?”

“She is currently in Canterlot General Hospital. She is still being watched by a couple of guards.”

“Thank you,” Celestia said to the messenger, smiling gently at him. She turned to face the door. “Guards!” she said sternly.

The doors quickly opened, two white pegasus guards rushing in. “Yes, Princess?” they quickly replied with a salute.

“I want you to go to my sister and tell her she has to raise the sun today. Tell her I am sorry that I have to make her work a little longer, and that I will make it up to her later. Send this to her immediately. Understood?”

“Yes, Princess!” the two guards shouted in unison. Giving a quick bow, they turned around and ran off to follow their orders.

“And you,” Celestia said, facing the remaining guard, “I need to take care of a few things, but after that I want you to escort me to Silver.”

“Of course, Your Majesty!” he answered.

After being repeatedly denied entrance to Mortar’s hospital room, Chrysalis could only sit down on a chair next to it. Her mane was disheveled, her back was slouched, and her eyes were distant. Everything seemed to be falling apart. But what haunted and tore at her the most was the nagging feeling that she actually cared about Mortar and his fate. Chrysalis tried to make excuses as to why she was sitting outside this pony’s door, but ultimately they fooled not even her.

There was a slight click next to her as the door to Mortar’s room opened, and a pink mare wearing a nurse’s outfit stepped out. “Silver, you may come in now. His condition has stabilized.”

Chrysalis stood, her eyes still wide and distant. The room was dark, and the mechanical hum of the machine permeated the air. The slow beep of the heart rate monitor echoed through the room. Chrysalis walked slowly towards the bed and saw the outline of a pony on top. She stood next to it and let out a small gasp.

There was Mortar, lying on the bed with a blanket draped over the lower half of his body. The rest of his body was covered in bloodied bandages, and a crown of additional bandages adorned his head. Some dried blood stained his fur. His eyes were closed, and an endotracheal tube supplied him oxygen through his open muzzle. Stitches were visible on the recently shaved parts of his body.

Chrysalis cringed at the sight. She numbly took a step back, unable to avert her eyes. She suddenly felt extremely guilty.

It hurts, she thought, stumbling backwards and falling on her hindquarters while clutching her chest. Why does it hurt?

The nurse rushed to Chrysalis’ side. “Ma’am, are you okay?” she said worriedly, extending a helping hoof.

Chrysalis quick swatted it away. “Get out!” she snarled. “Leave me alone!”

The nurse smiled sympathetically and backed off. With a slight nod, she quietly exited the room.

“Poor thing,” she whispered to herself. “She is much too young to be dealing with such an event. Not a great way to start the day, I suppose.” She grabbed a clipboard hanging from the door. Sighing heavily, she turned around to begin her rounds.

“Oof!” she squeaked as she ran into a pony.

“Oh, I am terribly sorry,” said the nurse quickly, shaking off the momentary confusion and adjusting her cap. “I did not see... you... there.” She turned pale. The clipboard hit the ground with a thunk.

“Oh, that is quite all right,” replied Celestia, a gentle smile on her face. “It is my fault, really; I should not have snuck up on you like that.”

The nurse stood frozen, mouth agape. “P—Princess Celestia," she stuttered, quickly giving a bow. “A thousand apologies, Your Highness. I did not see you there; please forgive me!”

“Do not fret. I hold nothing against you. There is no need to bow or apologize,” Celestia replied in a calm voice.

“Yes, of course, Princess,” the nurse said, standing back up. “But if I may ask, what brings you here?”

“I want to check up on the pony Mortar Brick,” Celestia answered. “What is his condition?”

“Oh,” the nurse replied as her ears flattened, “to be honest, Princess, it is dismal. Upon hospitalization, he had multiple broken ribs, a punctured lung, a ruptured spleen, a fractured skull, broken legs, a shattered pelvis, and numerous other internal injuries. We already gave him the best medical and magical treatment possible. There is nothing more we can do. Now everything depends on if his mind and body can recover from such a traumatic event. To be frank, we do not expect him to live past today, let alone a week. We will continue to do all we can, but it looks very bleak right now.”

Celestia frowned worriedly. “Is there anything I can do for Mortar?” she asked.

“I mean no disrespect, Your Highness, but no, there is not. We have done all that could have been done using magic. At this point we must rely on his body’s natural healing,” the nurse answered nervously.

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” Celestia said.

“That is not to say that you are not powerful, Princess!” the nurse quickly blurted out. “It is just that whatever could have done with magic already has been done. That is why he is still alive right now.”

“I understand. Was there a mare accompanying him?”

“Oh, do you mean Silver Skip? She is in Mortar’s room right now. I did not have to heart to tell her about Mortar’s condition. She just looks so utterly lost and confused. I felt it was best to leave her be at the moment,” the nurse said, looking back at the room’s door sadly.

“Thank you again. Do you mind if I go in?” Celestia said.

“Not at all, Princess,” the nurse replied.

Celestia slipped quietly into Mortar’s dimly lit room. Her heart sank when she saw Mortar’s condition. Her eyes scanned the room until she spotted Chrysalis slouched in the corner with her head in her forehooves.

Oh, Chrysalis, Celestia thought as she walked towards the earth pony, I just wanted you to make a friend. I know it must have been very hard for you, but I had to do what was best for my kingdom. I did not want anypony to get hurt.

“Chrysalis, are you okay?” Celestia said quietly.

Chrysalis instantly jumped to her hooves when she heard her real name and the voice saying it. She glared at Celestia. “You,” Chrysalis hissed, “fix him! I demand that you fix him now!”

“Chrysalis, I am unable to do that. Whatever I could have been done has already been done,” Celestia softly replied.

Chrysalis’ ear twitched. “What do you mean, you cannot? Are you not the god of this country,” she said, anger rising in her voice, “the one who raises the sun every day? How is it possible that you cannot do anything? Your captain and his wife destroyed my army with one spell, yet you tell me you cannot fix Mortar?”

“You have to understand that there are limits to everything, even magic. It is much easier to destroy than it is to heal,” Celestia answered.

“Then you are utterly useless!” Chrysalis shouted, pointing her hoof at Celestia. She kicked wildly out of frustration before slumping back down to the ground. “Just how much more do I have to suffer, Celestia? I have lost everything—my kingdom, my crown, my changelings—and now this?” Her voice became quiet. “Why couldn’t you have just killed me? Not only did you desecrate my body, but now my heart? How much more of this punishment must I take?”

“Oh, Chrysalis,” Celestia sighed as she extended a hoof towards the pony, “understand that this is not—”

“Just shut up and leave me alone!” Chrysalis screamed, slapping the hoof away. “Get out of here this instant!”

Celestia pulled her hoof away, a sympathetic look on her face. “Okay, Chrysalis, I will, but if you need me, just call me. I will be right outside.”

“Just get out of here!” Chrysalis yelled. She grabbed a nearby potted plant and hurled it towards Celestia.

Celestia just smiled sadly as the potted plant hit the wall next to her. She quietly closed the door behind her, leaving Chrysalis alone.

Falling back into a slump, Chrysalis just sat there and stared at the ground. She had absolutely no idea what to do with her life anymore. At one point she was a powerful queen, and now she was a normal pony. Then she met Mortar—but now it seemed that Mortar would just fall apart like everything else had. For the first time, she felt vulnerable, as if every wall she had built around herself had just crumbled.

Chrysalis felt her eyelids began to droop. Slouching on the wall, she decided that she would let sleep take hold. After all, she had nothing else to do. As she sat there, falling in and out of consciousness, she began to feel an intense migraine. She winced from the pain and clutched her head with her forehooves.

“What an absolute failure you are,” echoed a sinister voice.

Chrysalis instantly snapped to attention, trying to find the intruder. She looked around the room but saw nopony.

“I cannot believe that my lineage has fallen so low,” the voice continued.

Chrysalis looked around frantically to find the source of the voice. Her eyes widened in horror as a black speck appeared in front of her. She rubbed her eyes to try to dispel it, to no avail. The speck grew until it was at least three times her height. Soon a jagged black hoof thrust its way out, slamming into the ground. Another one soon followed.

Chrysalis backed away, bumping into the wall behind her. She continued to stare in disbelief. A figure emerged from the darkness. Chrysalis gasped, looking upon what appeared to be her former changeling self. The figure loomed over her, enveloping Chrysalis in its shadow.

Upon closer inspection, however, she could tell it was not her previous form. The figure was bigger than her old form, and there were no holes anywhere on its body. Its hooves were still jagged and sharp, but they were complete. The figure opened its eyelids and stared down at the earth pony, revealing crimson eyes.

“You are an utter disappointment. Do you know that?” the figure said.

Chrysalis could only look up in bewilderment, holding her head in her hooves.

“I guess that should be expected since this is the first time you have seen me,” the figure said. It brought its head right in front of Chrysalis, crimson eyes cutting into green. “In a sense, I am your mother.”

“What?” Chrysalis responded, standing up on her hooves. Her head began to clear.

“Well, I am not your direct mother per se,” the figure continued as she circled around Chrysalis, “but you are, sadly, my latest descendent.” She stepped right in front of Chrysalis, putting her head right in front of the pony, revealing long fangs. “You see, I am the very first changeling. I am the one who began your once proud lineage.”

Chrysalis remained stoic, staring straight into the figure’s eyes. She was not in the mood to be criticized by anything. “I do not care who you are. I did what I had to do with what I had. If you are who you say you are, then it is not my fault that I inherited a starved army,” Chrysalis retorted.

The figure just lifted her head and looked down at Chrysalis. “All bark and no bite.” She instantly appeared behind Chrysalis, her muzzle next to Chrysalis’ ear. “Tell me, who was the one who defeated Celestia in battle and conquered Equestria but lost it all due to her arrogance? Who was the one who completely lost my changeling army? That was you.”

Chrysalis cringed at the words, her ears flattening. Her legs weakened, and she fell on her hindquarters. She—she’s right. I did fail, Chrysalis thought, staring at her hooves.

“And worst of all, my dear daughter, is that you grew attached to that!” the figure spat, pointing a jagged hoof at Mortar’s body. She continued walking around Chrysalis, a look of disgust on her face. “You could have escaped and actually done what you were supposed to do. Yet here you are, grieving over the fact that this imbecile fell off some tower. Who cares about some worthless peasant? Apparently you do. Do I need to remind you again that he is nothing but food?”

“But I—” Chrysalis stammered, unable to think of anything to say. A moment passed; neither figure moving. “How are you even here, and why show up now?” Chrysalis finally said.

“I have always been with my descendents in a way. When it was time, I decided to transfer myself to my next descendant, so that I could be reborn and continue my work.” She turned her head away. “I hate to admit it, but it did not go as planned. My consciousness became locked into my daughter’s mind. As time went on from one generation to the next, it got pushed deeper and deeper. Then came you. It is true that Celestia’s little punishment awakened me, but even then I was still Iocked deep within your mind. And now your mind has become so utterly devastated and weak that I could simply escape. I do not know if I should be elated that I am finally free or severely appalled at the fact that my descendant has become so pitiful.”

Chrysalis looked up at her, frustrated. “Do you think I wanted any of this? Do you think I like being stuck in this form with every weakness that comes with it? If I could have changed back to my original form, I would, but I can’t even use any damn magic in this from!” she shouted.

The figure smiled wickedly, revealing many sharp fangs, “So you want to be a changeling again?”

“Of course I do. I always did!” Chrysalis quickly responded, standing back up.

The figure instantly rushed towards Chrysalis, shoving her face right into Chrysalis’. “Because I can make you a changeling again—but you will be even more powerful. You will command an army that knows no equal.”

Chrysalis’ eyes widened, and her ears perked at the thought of being a queen again. With power, she thought, I can control everything. I can make sure something like this will never happen again. I can do things no one could ever do.

“Wait, how can you make me a changeling when I am stuck like this?” Chrysalis asked suspiciously.

“Oh it is quite easy, really,” the figure said, appearing behind Chrysalis. She gently stroked Chrysalis’ chin with her hoof and placed her muzzle next to Chrysalis’ ear as she whispered sweetly. “I still remember the ritual that made me a changeling in the first place. It is very easy once you know it. All you need is the heart of a lover.”

X: Sacrifice

“Wait, what?” Chrysalis gasped as she backed away.

“You heard me,” the figure said, walking towards Chrysalis. “All you need is his heart.”

“But wouldn’t that kill him?” Chrysalis said with a shaky voice.

“Of course it will. What else do you think happens when you rip someone’s heart out?” the figure retorted. “Besides, it doesn't really matter anyway; you have already killed him at this point. Just hurry up and finish the job.”

“But—”

“Do you not want power?” the figure shouted at Chrysalis, flaring its wings out. “Remember the power that you got from that captain? With his heart, you will have even more power because he loves you.”

“He loves me?” Chrysalis said as her eyes widened.

“It has been an eon since I last felt it, but there is no mistaking it. Its inescapable potency penetrates the air. Its purity saturates the place and awakens my unused senses. In my day I had many a lover, and I if no one else should know love when I feel it.” She paused, closed her eyes, and raised her chin as though she were smelling a particularly fragrant flower. “Yes,” she said with relish. “His naivety, has made him a massive reservoir of raw might trapped in potential form. His love shall fill you with untold strength, and his life will fuel your revenge, making you an inexorable nemesis. Yes, you are standing before the key to the door of ultimate and assured victory. All you need do is reach out and take hold of it.”

“Power...” Chrysalis said quietly.

“Do you know exactly how I transcended that pitiful pony form?” the figure said as she stood next to Chrysalis.

“If I didn’t know who you were, then how would I know your story?” Chrysalis replied in a sarcastic tone, glaring at the figure.

The figure squinted her eyes, frowning. “I will ignore your arrogant and disrespectful attitude this once.” The figure continued to glare down at Chrysalis. However, Chrysalis ignored her and continued to stare at the body of Mortar. Failing to elicit a response, the figure broke her stare. Her ears flicked with irritation. The figure also looked at Mortar, her eyes becoming distant and a smile growing on her face.

“It brings back such wonderful memories,” the figure said. “Back when I was still in that disgusting pony form that you now have, I was able to get whatever I wanted. My victims’ race and gender did not matter; I was able to control them all. But sadly that form became more disgusting as time went on. I wanted even more. So I found the most powerful wizard in the unicorn tribe, and do you know what I did to him?”

“No,” Chrysalis said flatly.

The figure leaned down next to Chrysalis. “I tore him off his ivory tower and brought him down to our level. I seduced him, and with enough pressure I got him to work on forbidden magic. He was the pinnacle of unicorn race and their magic. Even after finding out what it would take to get what I want, I still managed to get him to continue his work, filling his head with honey coated-words. Getting the heart was easy—I seduced somepony else and ripped his heart out. After the transformation, the wizard realized his mistake. But do you know what the best part was? The look on his face was priceless. The horror on his face, the realization of his blunder, was delicious. I let him live so he could feel that every day for the rest of his life. But that was not the best part. The best part is that he spent his entire life trying to hide what he did! He made it look like the pony whose heart I tore out was actually the one who made me a changeling. He did everything to hide what he had done. He went so far as to not tell anyone about me!”

“What?” Chrysalis said, stunned as she looked at the figure.

The figure roared in laughter. “It was wonderful! He brought that shame to his grave. He erased every document he could, trying to do whatever he could to erase the mistake from his name. Maybe he succeeded, maybe he did not. Not even Celestia will know.”

“I will not lie,” Chrysalis muttered. “I am impressed with that. What a fool he was.”

“Indeed he was,” the figure continued, still chuckling. “Tell me, I wonder what you will do to Celestia...”

Chrysalis’ heart began to pound. With him, she thought, vengeance would be a simple task. I can utterly annihilate Celestia. I can bring her under my hoof and humiliate her as she did to me, until she begs for mercy. As she did to me, I will tell her sweet lies about wanting only to be her friend. Then, I can grind her into the dust and trample her like mud in the streets.

“I can humiliate Celestia for what she did to me,” Chrysalis whispered.

“Yes,” the figure replied.

“I can torture her like she did me. I can make her suffer just as I have,” Chrysalis said as she walked closer to Mortar.

“Yes!” the figure replied more loudly. “All the things you need for power are right in front of you, ready to be taken. I have already achieved this evolved form—now you can earn it yourself and take the power to control this world.”

“Power,” Chrysalis said as she walked up the hospital bed. Standing on her hind legs, she looked down at Mortar’s crippled form. She watched his chest rise and fall with each faint breath. Slowly placing a hoof on his chest, she felt Mortar’s weak heartbeat. She let it sit there, feeling every weak pulse. Slowly, she moved her hoof to Mortar’s neck, feeling its slight movement.

All it would take to end it is one push. It would be so easy—no fight or struggle to obtain the power I want.

Her hoof quivered, and while her breathing quickened.

“What are you waiting for? Hurry up and kill him; I want his love now,” the figure said, annoyed.

Love, Chrysalis thought. He loves me even after the way I treated him? She remembered when they first met, the usual get-togethers after her shift, and most importantly that night out at Canterlot’s Wine Cellar with him. She clutched her chest with her other hoof as a sickening realization hit her. Her body shivered as she got back down on all four hooves. She realized she was happy when she was with him.

“I c-can’t do it,” Chrysalis said quietly.

“What?” the figure roared, baring her fangs. “Why not?”

“B—because,” Chrysalis whispered, looking away, “I love him too.”

The figure stood there, utterly shocked, with her mouth and eyes wide open. Her face quickly twisted in anger, biting her lip.

“You little whore!” the figure roared in fury. “You love him? Are you that stupid? You are a changeling—you do not love your food! Have you forgotten what happened to you?”

“I know what happened!” Chrysalis said sternly, “but I cannot help it. For the first time in my life I was happy when I was with him. I want that again; I want him.”

“So you want to be in that pathetic and disgusting form? Do you want to be weak?” the figure yelled.

“Do you think I like this body? I hate it! It is soft and weak. I have no magic or wings. I struggle just to pick up the simplest thing! But he makes my life better. At least I am happy with him.” Chrysalis said back.

“That’s it? You would be content living as a puppet? To be a lowly wife and slave to Equestria, to Celestia?” the figure continued yelling.

“If that is what it takes to be with him,” Chrysalis replied, looking away.

“Do you think he will even live? Do you think he will love you back even if he lives?” the figure hissed. “If he wakes up and remembers what you did, do you think he will love you after he remembers when you crushed his spirit?”

Chrysalis grimaced at the comment.

The figure lowered her face. “And don’t forget how you also crushed his body. When he remembers that, he will hate you with all of his being. So why not make use of him now while he is still useful?”

Chrysalis had to turn her head away, the truth weighing her down. She is right, but I want to be with him.

“I know what I did, but I will risk that,” Chrysalis whispered.

“So you have made your mind, then?” the figure asked.

“Yes.”

“You are an utter disappointment,” the figure replied as she stood up. Dark shadows began to form out of her body, then suddenly lashed out and grabbed Chrysalis.

Chrysalis jumped when she felt something grab her. She opened her mouth to scream but was cut off when a shadow wrapped around her neck. The room began to darken as the shadows spread out farther, engulfing the entire room. Chrysalis struggled, bucking and kicking out to no avail as the shadows continued to envelop her.

The figure lowered her head and looked into the panicked eyes of Chrysalis. “You are a failure. Since you will not do what is necessary, I will. Your body is now mine. I will finish what you have started, and I will burn Equestria to ashes. But don’t worry, dear daughter I will take care of him—your lover’s pelt will serve as a magnificent trophy near my throne.”

XI: Sol Invictus

Chrysalis struggled fiercely against the black shadows that enveloped her, but it was to no avail. For every black tendril that she kicked or bit off, another took its place.

“It is poetic, is it not, dear daughter? The enemy of Celestia, who was stripped of everything, vowed revenge, only to fall in love with one of Celestia’s subjects. So horrifically tragic, star-crossed lovers, a once-proud queen and a lowly peasant, that were never meant to be! Oh, if only you did not cripple him, he may have had a chance. Oh, fate, thou art so cruel and unforgiving! Alas, the tragedy must come to a finale. Chrysalis, who fought so bravely and valiantly, in the end could not save the one she loved!”

The figure slowly circled the struggling Chrysalis, watching as her every movement become more labored. She licked her lips, savoring the spectacle. “Oh, what a beautiful sight love is,” the figure laughed as she continued walking, “and very delicious, too. It has been too long since I last tasted it.”

The figure walked over to Mortar’s bed and leaned down next to him. “Getting tired, dear?” the figure whispered as she stroked Mortar’s head. The figure laughed, baring her fangs, when she saw Chrysalis struggle even harder.

Chrysalis gave out a final kick before falling to the ground, the shadows enveloping her and pinning her to the ground. Being exhausted after fighting for so long, she panted as she struggled to look up.

“Oh my, giving up already?” the figure said as she stood over the trapped Chrysalis.

Chrysalis had lost all feeling in the lower half of her body; sweat dripped down her face as the shadows wrapped even tighter. She scowled at the figure, but inside, she felt consumed with terror. Try as she might, she could not stop her body from shivering.

“What a lovely face you have there, but we both know that it’s a lie. Not only can I see it, I can feel your fear. Oh, how delicious it is. It brings me back to my younger days. That surge of power when I saw victims’ fear in their eyes. The look when they realized they had lost everything. Oh, how wonderful it was! Tell me, daughter, how does it feel to lose everything, to know that you sacrificed all you had but still lost? You have lost your crown, your army, your body, your power, and your lover. And for what, to try to hang onto the belief that you could live a normal life?”

Chrysalis’ mask broke. Her eyes widened as the horror sunk in. She is right; I have lost everything. Mortar, I am sorry. I really did want to live a life with you, even as a pony. Celestia, why— Chrysalis froze mid-thought. No, I have not sacrificed everything yet. Better Celestia than that monster. For him, I will give up my pride.

With every ounce of strength she had remaining, Chrysalis pried off the shadow around her neck with her forehooves and shouted as loudly as possible.

“CELESTIA! HELP ME!”

Chrysalis’ eyes closed, and her whole body went limp.

Celestia sat at the end of the hallway, watching over the door to Mortar's room, glad that fewer ponies were stopping and bowing to her. She knew it was late, but she had promised that she would be here for Chrysalis. She sighed as she closed her eyes.

I feel it is unlikely that she would ask for help, especially mine. She is too proud to ask an old mare like me. Oh, what could I have done to prevent this? Should I have watched her personally? Maybe then, I could have saved Mortar. But then again, that would have been a grievous violation of her privacy. I already had the guard watch her. Even then, I knew that was a tad extreme, but it had to be done. Should I have increased the amount of guard watching her? Should I have just gone all the way and had her constantly watched with that scrying spell? It could have helped—

No! I cannot think like that. That is a dangerous path to tread, one that I cannot start. That is the path that will lead to tyranny. But what could I have done? I raise the sun; surely I could have done something!

Would it have been better if I had granted Chrysalis her wish and killed her? I wanted to give her a chance at happiness, and that was the only way I could do it while protecting my ponies. But how could I kill her after I learned who she was? Her motives were not malicious.

Should I have fought her at the wedding? I could have ended this entire thing there and then. I knew my ponies could stop the invasion; I wanted to show them how strong they are. Besides, Canterlot would be in ruins if I had fought with all of my strength. I already destroyed one capital and its countryside, and all that is left now is the Everfree Forest. I could not do that again; there would be too many deaths. I do not want to smell burning ashes again. Everypony already fears me; if I did fight her, they would see my true power and become horrified. They would treat me like some vicious god and would do everything they could to appease me. I do not want that. It took me a thousand years to get this far. Was it selfish of me to let my ponies do it because I feared the consequences?

Luna, what should I do? I have failed another—

A desperate, hoarse scream echoed down the hallway.

Celestia's eyes shot wide. "Chrysalis," she whispered.

She jumped out of her seat and galloped down the hallway. Without missing a beat she slammed into the door, knocking it off its hinges. Her magenta eyes scanned the room for any sign of danger. She noticed Chrysalis’ limp form on the ground. As she took a step towards it, suddenly her fur stood on end. The room suddenly felt colder, as if there was ice in the air. Her wings flicked in trepidation.

Something else is here. There is another being present. I have felt this before; it is just like Luna’s possession—

Celestia’s wings flared as she quickly got to Chrysalis’ side. She picked up Chrysalis’ limp form and cradled it.

“Chrysalis, are you all right? Chrysalis!” Celestia said as she nudged her. She lifted Chrysalis’ face with a hoof and gasped. Chrysalis’ eyes were wide open; one pupil was dilated while the other was shrunk.

No, she is being possessed! Celestia thought. She quickly brought her forehead to Chrysalis as her horn glowed. Ever since Luna’s transformation she had prepared for this in case it would happen again. She had never believed she would have to use it on any other pony. I have lost one to a demon already; I will not make that mistake twice.

Chrysalis gasped, wondering what had happened. She was in a white corridor that appeared to go on forever.

“You little bitch, calling her for help!” boomed a voice. “Can you show any pride even in your last moments, or do you go out begging like some alleyway tail-lifter? I cannot believe you are willing to submit yourself to the enemy!”

Chrysalis instantly turned around and saw the figure standing behind her. As she remembered the events that had just transpired, she glared at the figure and roared back, "Better her than you!”

The figure’s ear flicked in irritation. Again, black shadows began to spread out on the floor around her. However, this time it was different—it was a thick, tar-like substance that oozed and bubbled out. It was as if it were a living mass that crawled out rather than a shadow.

Chrysalis stared at the thick mass, wide-eyed. She spotted a rising bubble that was much larger than the rest. Instead of popping, it continued to grow. All of a sudden a changeling face exploded out of the mass with a roar.

Chrysalis jumped back in horror as other changelings began to appear around the figure, snarling and roaring like a pack of wild beasts.

“I will do what you cannot,” the figure said in a cold tone. “I will conquer this nation; every stallion, mare, and foal will be under my hoof. As soon as Equestria is mine, the entire world will be next. Every nation will bow down before me as I feed on their love. But first, I have to get rid of you.”

All of a sudden, the black mass of changelings charged at her, the wave of corruption staining the corridor. Chrysalis had no choice but to run away down the white corridor. As she ran she caught images of her past hanging on the walls. She caught glimpses of her mother’s grave, her early childhood, and her time leading the changelings. Each time she passed an image, the mass of changelings would writhe over it, hundreds of tiny, snapping maws and flailing claws tearing it to pieces.

Chrysalis ran as fast as she could, panting hard. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she pushed her legs to their limit, the mocking laughter of the figure echoing around her.

Eventually, Chrysalis reached the end of the corridor. The last image that hung on the wall was that of Mortar lying in his hospital bed. Chrysalis stared at it for a while as time appeared to slow. It seemed like it was only yesterday when they first meet. So much has changed since then. She could remember how driven she was for revenge. However every day spent with Mortar calmed her, until she really did not think about revenger anymore. Everyday she was becoming more happy with her life. All those times with Mortar, all those times where he would listen calm her. The more she thought about Mortar, the harder it was to fight back tears. In the corner of her eye she could see the black tar-like substance surrounding her.

“No!” Chrysalis cried out as she pried the image from the wall, holding it near her chest with a forehoof.

“Oh, isn’t that lovely? How cute, clutching your lover in your final moments,” the figure said sweetly.

Chrysalis glared at her, clutching the picture even more tightly. Suddenly, from her right a changeling jumped at her, baring its fangs. Chrysalis dodged and lashed out with her hind legs, hitting it in the chin. More jumped at her, each one gnashing its teeth at Chrysalis and trying to grab her. She tried to dodge the attacks, but more continued to charge at her.

A changeling seized one of Chrysalis’ hind leg, trapping her. She tried to jerk it free, but another grabbed her foreleg. More and more changelings grabbed her, pinning her to the ground. Chrysalis struggled, biting and trying to free herself, but to no avail. The tar-like substance began to creep over her, slowly covering her body. She could feel it crawl up her back, reaching her neck. The figure’s laugh echoed even more loudly.

I failed you, Mortar. I let my pride get in my way. Why did it take me until now to realize that I love you? Those words echoed through her being, weighing her down even more.

The figure licked her fangs, able to feel Chrysalis’ emotions. Knowing that her victory was sealed, she flared her wings and let out a triumphant roar. With relish, she grinned to show her ecstatic visage in the moment of her ultimate success. As the last glimmers of light faded from the eyes of her captive, the figure opened her mouth and cried out, “Be happy, daughter. This is the hour of the accomplishment of our purpose.

“Where you and countless other queens before you have failed, I will succeed. With your body and my army at my command, Equestria will fall. I will sack Canterlot, burn it to ashes, and drain its inhabitants dry. Then, when I have collected all of the vast energies that it has to offer, I, in my unmatched power, will turn my gaze upon the world. Every country, every culture, and every people will bow down to my authority, and my empire will last into the ages.”

The thick sludge of changelings continued to envelop Chrysalis, finally reaching her head. All of a sudden she felt extremely sleepy, her eyelids beginning to fall as her body became more numb. She could see the figure was saying something, but she was unable to hear it. Her vision faded, and the world around her darkened. Her eyes watered as she remembered her life. Her childhood alone, her struggles as a queen, her invasion of Equestria, and, most importantly, her short time with Mortar. She wished everything could just return to the way it had been.

“A new dawn rises, daughter,” the figure said. “Too bad; it could have been yours,”

Yet just when she thought that she was dead and it seemed to her that even her feeling had been lost, there was a sound like thunder and a light so brilliant that it shone through the darkness surrounding her. A loud and mighty voice tore through the air. “The dawn rises when I alone command it!”

Suddenly, an explosion of fire erupted in the air, sending out waves of flame that scorched the changelings instantly, leaving nothing but brittle, burnt bones. Chrysalis felt an unimaginably intense heat lapping all around her. In an instant, the mass of bodies around her was consumed, and the fire disappeared—but she herself was untouched. Instantly, she clutched the image of Mortar even more tightly against her chest. She weakly tried to look up but instantly turned her head away from the glaring light. Body and mind exhausted, she faded into unconsciousness.

The fire in the sky in slowly dispersed, revealing the form of Celestia. However, her normally rainbow-colored, iridescent mane and tail had become torrents of intense, blazing fire. Her gentle magenta eyes shone with furious white light, while all around her there was a blinding brilliance that the two could barely stand to glimpse.

Celestia descended, but instead of her normal graceful landing, her hooves shattered the ground under her with a tremendous crash upon impact. Her surroundings shook, and the ruptured earth under her hooves was set aflame.

The figure could only look towards her, awestruck by the immensity of Celestia’s terrible might and raw power. Celestia’s face was clearly full of an unimaginable rage.

Celestia glared at the figure, her nostrils flaring. I must protect Chrysalis, so I can hold nothing back. I remember now so clearly how it was with Luna. I will never allow that to happen again, Her determination, as well as her raging inferno, only made her more terrifying to behold.

Celestia raised a hoof and struck the ground with tremendous force. She began to walk towards the figure, and the ground underneath her trembled and crumbled. She trampled any bones left from the changelings in her path.

The figure still backed away despite the hopelessness of her situation, keeping pace with the princess. She quickened her pace and turned to run, but then she bumped into a corner, trapped. With horror, she faced the bright opponent and managed to let out her voice in a high pitch. “Y—you would protect her, your enemy? Do you not remember what she did to you, to Canterlot?”

“I have already judged her, and she has already suffered enough for her past actions. She has paid her dues to Equestria,” Celestia said coldly. “She is one of my children now; she falls under my protection, and I will protect her no matter what. I already said that I will crush any threats to my children.”
Without another word she lowered her head and thrust her horn through the figure’s chest. The figure let out a cry of anguish before slowly burning away, leaving nothing but a pile of ashes. “I will banish the shadows that dare threaten my kingdom.” Images of Luna’s possession flashed by her, seeing her sister slowly torn away from her as Nightmare Moon took over. Never again. I will never allow something like that to happen to my sister or anyone else.

As the ashes finally settled, she turned around and walked towards Chrysalis. Her eyes softened, and her mane and tail returned to normal. She flared her wings and glided towards Chrysalis. Upon reaching her, she kneeled down in front of her and gently placed a hoof on her back. She noticed that Chrysalis was clutching something. Gently, Celestia nudged her a little to try to get a glimpse of it.

She let out a small gasp as she saw Chrysalis clutching a picture of Mortar. Celestia smiled as her eyes began to water ever so slightly. She held Chrysalis in a gentle embrace, holding her to her chest. Celestia extended her wings and wrapped them around Chrysalis.

“Do not worry, my little pony,” Celestia said gently. “It is over now. You are safe. I will protect you.”

XII: Acceptance

“Poor thing,” Celestia softly whispered as she cradled the unconscious Chrysalis in her forehooves. She tucked Chrysalis in towards her chest with one forehoof, the other gently stroking her back as she tried to comfort her. “Do you sense anything, Luna?” she asked, looking up at her sister.

The aura from Luna’s horn slowly faded as her eyes opened. The room once again was dimly lit, the air filled with the soft hum of the life support machines. “I do not sense anything, Sister. It seems that you did more than enough in wiping out the thing that almost consumed her,” Luna replied. She looked down at her sister and raised an eyebrow.

Celestia looked back up. “What do you mean, Luna?”

Luna walked to Celestia's side and sat down next to her. “My analysis shows that her possession and your intervention have left her mind extremely exposed and vulnerable. You may have gone a tad overboard. When she wakes up, she will most likely be unable to control her emotions or actions. The mental barriers that she created have been destroyed, and it will take some time for her to rebuild them.

“That being said, I am not arguing with your decision. It was wise to be thorough. Better to be prudent and vanquish the demon now and forever than to risk its return. I would have done the same thing.

“Though I should warn you, she will likely be extremely emotional when she wakes, possibly even violent. As I said, whatever mental checks and barriers to which she is accustomed will not be there. She will calm in a couple of hours, when she has had time to sort through her thoughts. I know this because it happened to me when the Elements of Harmony saved me; after Nightmare Moon was destroyed, my mind was vulnerable. In addition, Chrysalis’ condition is much more severe than mine was. Her beliefs, her very foundation, were being challenged by her possessor. Although I doubt she would admit it, she was extremely shaken. In light of this, your intervention might have been almost traumatic. It is a pity that it was the only way to save her.”

“Thanks for the warning, Luna. I am sure I will be fine. I know I may have gone overboard, but I was scared that she would be lost. It—it brought painful memories. I did not want to fail again,” Celestia murmured, turning her head away from her sister.

“Sister!” Luna admonished as her wings flared out. “How many times do I have to tell you? I am the one who fell from grace, not you, and I have paid for my actions. Stop telling yourself that it was your fault; it was mine alone. I am the one who allowed myself to be consumed. Although I am your younger sister, I am clearly old enough to admit to my own mistakes! If I can raise the moon and govern by your side, then I can clearly take the blame for my own actions. So for the last time, stop acting like it was your fault!”

“But Luna—”

“Enough!” Luna barked, holding her hoof in front of Celestia. “This subject is over and done; I do not want to hear about it anymore. We have pressing issues right now. What shall we do with Chrysalis?”

Celestia sighed, her head dropping slightly. “I suppose you are right. She is so young yet has suffered so much. All we can do is pray that Mortar Brick shall recover and offer her support when we can. Other than that, we must wait.”

Just as before, Celestia gently rubbed Chrysalis’ back, soothing her as she slept. Chrysalis shifted, unconsciously moving towards the source of warmth and resting her head on Celestia. The solar princess could only smile as she looked down on Chrysalis, her eyes watering slightly.

Minutes passed as a gentle silence filled the room, enveloping the area in a peaceful serenity.

Celestia’s ears flicked, awakening her from her trance. She turned to look at Luna, who was looking at her with a raised eyebrow.

“Is something wrong, Sister?” Celestia asked, eyes widening and wings shifting in concern.

Seconds passed, and Luna pursed her lips. She opened her mouth to speak and then quickly closed it, squinting in concentration. “I do not know how to put this gently,” she finally said. “Sister, do you not find your actions slightly peculiar right now?”

“What do you mean, Sister?” Celestia said, giving a confused look, her ears perking up.

“What I mean is...” Luna paused. “Well, look at what you are doing right now. It has barely been a month since the changeling attack, and here you are, cradling the leader of said attack as if she were your own foal. I am not condemning your actions; it is just that how in Equestria could you do such a thing, even after she put you in that disgusting cocoon thing? I know that saving her from her possession was the right thing to do—I would have done the same. But it is how you are right now, as if you were a mother soothing her child. Do you not feel just a little resentment from her previous actions?”

Celestia gave a quick chuckle before she sighed. “I know it is strange, but I cannot help myself. I treat all of our subjects as my children. My heart bleeds for them. I just want to hug each one and tell them everything will be okay, that I will protect them from any danger. To me, they really are our children. I want to be their mother or grandmother. Even with Chrysalis, I do not harbor any resentment for her previous actions. She had a hard life, and made some mistakes, but that does not mean her heart is in the wrong place. Yes, she was punished for her actions, and I removed the dark magic from her, making her a pony. It was the only thing that I could think of that would both ensure the safety of Equestria and show mercy to somepony who desperately needs it. When she first awoke after her trial, my heart could not help but to reach out to her.”

Celestia paused, looking at Luna with soft eyes. “Luna, she cried out for my help. I knew she resented me for my actions, yet to protect the one she loved, she called for me. I know she must have hated it. When I destroyed that demon, I found Chrysalis clutching a picture of Mortar. Isn’t that beautiful? I could not stop myself, so I just hugged her. At least I can provide something for her to lean on. Besides, she looked so peaceful afterwards.

“I know it is silly, to have a ruler soothing a former enemy. But she is a good pony; I know it. She just had a hard life. If she wants to hate so she can feel better, then so be it. At least I can help her, then.”

Luna sighed as she stood up, stretching her legs and wings in the process. “You were always the motherly one of us. I suppose it is only fitting that you would comfort her, after all. I should not have found that surprising, looking back. You are right; she has indeed suffered much. To have another entity take control of your body and then watch it commit atrocities, while unable to lift a hoof to stop it...I can only sympathize with her now after almost being possessed. I am glad that you talked me into doing things your way this time. She did deserve mercy. Ironic, is it not, that the princess of the night, not the day, would be the more fiery one? I would do well to learn from your patience.”

“Well, Sister, I will bid you a good night,” Luna said with a graceful bow. “It is time for me to take court and scare the nobles.”

“Now, Sister, don’t be too harsh with them,” Celestia said.

“Ah, Sister, that is where you and I disagree. The nobility now is insufferable. It is time that we humbled them back to what they once were; a tiny bit of fear would do them good. You really did spoil them in my absence,” Luna remarked as she walked towards the door.

“I know,” Celestia sighed.

Luna’s horn glowed slightly as the door opened. “Good night, Sister. I will see you soon.”

“Good night, Luna,” Celestia replied, watching Luna close the door gently behind her.

Chrysalis twitched slightly as she slowly regained consciousness. She saw darkness, when suddenly a bright light burst out, banishing the shadows around her. Chrysalis gave a slight groan, feeling a light headache come on.

Where am I? she thought as her breathing slowed. What happened? Ah, I don’t care; it is too comfortable here. It is so soft and warm right now. I think I smell a hint of roses. Mmm, that stroking feels nice on my back. Wait—

Chrysalis’ eyes shot open, staring right into the face of a smiling Celestia. Her right eye twitched slightly before she pushed herself out of Celestia’s grasp. She hastily backpedaled before her back hit the wall.

“I am sorry, Chrysalis. I was just trying to help,” Celestia said, turning towards her.

Chrysalis stared at her, panting. Slowly the events from before returned to her.

Her body shivered violently as she remembered what had transpired. She instantly curled up and clutched her sides. It felt as if the room’s temperature had dropped significantly. Chrysalis tried to stay warm by curling up even tighter, but to no avail. Both her mind and body felt violated, as if her very being had been exposed for the world to see. Every fault, every moment of weakness was on display.

She began to feel dizzy from all the sudden emotions. The room was spinning, and she could not grasp anything to balance herself.

“Chrysalis, are you feeling all right? Do you need to talk? You have been through so much; please let me help you,” Celestia said as she held out a hoof, inviting Chrysalis to come back.

Chrysalis suddenly craved the warmth she felt earlier. Again her body shuddered. She had never felt so exposed in her life. Her anxiety grew, and she felt more unsafe by the second.

She looked around, seeing Mortar still on his bed. Her eyes focused on Celestia again, whose hoof was still extended.

Chrysalis’ eyes began to water. She inhaled sharply and quickly wiped her eyes with a hoof. Stop it! she screamed to herself. Do not look weak, especially in front of her! She bit her lip, trying to stop herself. But try as she might, she could not stop it. Her eyes began to water even more. Once again she felt that familiar craving for warmth. What are you thinking? she yelled to herself. This is Celestia!

However, as her mind screamed against the very thought of it, her heart begged and pleaded to go back to that warm and soft embrace. She felt alone, and she wanted nothing more than to feel safe again.

More water sprung from her eyes. She bit her lip as she tried to stop the flow, but it was to no avail.

Stop it! she pleaded to herself. Suck it up and just stop it! However, no matter how hard she tried, she could not. Tears began to roll down her cheeks as she slowly lifted a hoof towards Celestia, sniffling.

At that moment, Chrysalis jumped up and ran towards Celestia. She buried her head into Celestia’s shoulder, and for the first time in her life, cried. Every bottled up emotion, every feeling of sorrow and hardship she had ever experienced, from her childhood to Mortar, she let loose. She could no longer shoulder her burdens anymore, at least not alone. Chrysalis cried out loudly, sobbing uncontrollably as the floodgates opened.

Celestia let out a small gasp, surprised by Chrysalis’ sudden action. However, she quickly wrapped her hooves around Chrysalis, bringing her closer against her body.

“There, there, little one, it is all right,” Celestia said soothingly as she rubbed a hoof against Chrysalis’ back. “Just let it all out. Don’t hold anything back.”

Chrysalis just planted her head against Celestia’s warm shoulder and cried.

It took a while before Chrysalis finally settled down, letting out an occasional sob.

“Feeling better?” Celestia whispered, gently rubbing Chrysalis’ back with a forehoof.

Chrysalis nodded, clinging more to Celestia. She felt relieved and exhausted, the heavy burden she had been carrying finally lifted. Chrysalis did not want to leave Celestia’s embrace, afraid that the anxiety and feelings of vulnerability would return.

Minutes passed before Chrysalis looked up. “I guess that's it, then,” she said softly.

‘What do you mean?” Celestia asked with a puzzled look.

“Do not play games, Celestia. Look at me! I just cried my heart and eyes out to my former enemy. I am so utterly pathetic! Instead of dealing with my own problems, I came running back to you and crying. I’d never cried in my life, and now I did it in front of you. What is worse is that I do not even want to leave right now. I don’t know if you brainwashed me, or if it has something to do with this body, or worst of all if it is just what I want.

“I am so tired. I can’t go on fighting for revenge or power. It is not worth it anymore. All I want now is just to live my life with Mortar, if that is even possible. No more, Celestia. I submit. You win.”

“Chrysalis,” Celestia said firmly but softly as she gently lifted Chrysalis’ chin with a forehoof, looking directly at her, “this was never meant to be some sort of competition, or attempt at humiliation. Nor would I ever do such a thing as to control someone’s mind. I understand that I put you in a very difficult position by making you a pony, but it was never meant to be a form of submission. I know that my actions against you were harsh, but I did what I thought was best. I had to protect Equestria while also giving you a chance at happiness. You may disagree on what happiness is, but this is the only way that I know of. I just wanted to give you a second chance, a chance at happiness. Your life has been so rough and hard; I just wanted to give you a break. I never wanted anypony to get hurt, including you.

“Chrysalis, I am deeply sorry for what I put you through. I never meant for any of this to happen. If you want to resent me, that is fine; I cannot argue with that.

“However, I do ask this: Will you accept my hoof in friendship? I do not want you to submit to me as would a loser in battle. You have struggled so much, and yet you are so young. Let me help you carry those burdens.”

Chrysalis looked up, staring into Celestia’s magenta eyes. “Is that all you really wanted, my happiness and friendship?”

“Yes, it is. I wanted to give you a chance at happiness in the only way I know how,” Celestia replied softly.

Chrysalis sighed, brought her head back down on Celestia’s shoulder, and closed her eyes. “Then I accept your offer.”

Celestia smiled, hugging Chrysalis tightly. “Thank you.”

Chrysalis lay there, enjoying Celestia’s warmth. It felt great to no longer have enemies, to no longer be fueled by hate and anger. She was starting to see why every Equestrian loved their princesses.

“Is there anything that we can do for Mortar?” Chrysalis finally asked.

“Sadly there is not. Everything that could have been done has been done. It is up to him now. I know it looks grim and bleak, but have faith. He is one of the earth. If anypony could survive such an ordeal, then it would be an earth pony.”

“I was afraid you were going to say that. I am sorry; this is all my fault. If only I did not yell at him,” Chrysalis said quietly.

“Chrysalis, it is not your fault. From what you told me, it was just an accident. You never meant for it to happen,” Celestia replied.

Again Chrysalis just lay there, letting time pass. Finally she looked up, rubbing her eyes clear. “Celestia...” She exhaled, puffing out her chest.

“Yes. Chrysalis?” Celestia replied.

The ex-changeling and former queen straightened herself. “I do not know what the future holds, but I know this: Chrysalis died here today with that monster. Whatever happens, I will embrace the new life you’ve given me for better or worse. I do not want to dwell on the past. So from now on, call me ‘Silver Skip.’”

Celestia smiled, her eyes watering. “Very well, Silver.”

XIII: A Brick Pony and a Pale Pony

Mortar’s eyes shot open, revealing Luna’s night sky. Slowly, he stood and examined his surroundings. He easily recognized he was at the city park, regarding its bricked paths and distinct fountains. Some of it was his own hoofwork.

“What the hay happened?” he muttered to himself. Sitting down, he placed a forehoof on his head. Where am I, and what am I doing here? Don’t tell me I was drinking again. I thought I got that out of my system. Last time I did that was after I graduated from high school.

So why the hay am I here? The last thing I remember was doing a job from the palace on tower number four. I was working on that in the morning, and then—

Mortar’s body tensed. His eyes widened while his jaw slackened, and he looked up, seeing the tower he had been working on. The hole he needed to patch was still there. His breathing became frantic and erratic, his hoof shivering.

I fell. I remember falling. I was patching a hole, and then Silver came. She was mad at me and yelled at me. I tried to get to her, to run to her. I slipped out of my harness. I fell. The wind was howling in my ears and then...

Mortar scrambled onto his hooves, quickly turning around in place and looking over his body. “Then why I do I feel fine? I should be dead,” Mortar whispered as he stared into the sky.

“Is that it? Am I dead?” Mortar just sat there, staring into the sky as tears slowly formed in his eyes.

His ears pricked up as he heard a voice.

“Okay, so the next guy...how should I do this...? I mean, on the one hoof, he has a right to know, right? He may never get another chance to learn the truth, and really, I think he would want to know the whole story and everything. But on the other hoof, I don’t really know if it’s my place to say anything.”

Mortar turned his head. The voice was small, but that didn’t seem to be a matter of distance; the speaker just seemed to be soft-spoken. If only he could place where the voice was coming from...

“This was between Celestia and her, so she should be the one to tell him, right? But at this rate, I don’t even think she’ll get the chance. I... I feel like someone should tell him, but what if it makes things worse?”

For some reason, Mortar felt compelled to find the speaker. It almost felt instinctual. He turned around, trying to find the source and...

There was somepony there. Mortar almost couldn’t see him. The pony wore a cloak that seemed blacker than anything he had ever seen. He could just barely make out the bottom of the pony’s hooves and an unusual curved horn.

“Suppose this is it. What if, after this, there is nothing left? What if I make him feel horrible in his last moments? Is ignorance bliss? Would a pony want to know the truth, even if it meant sacrificing their happiness?”

The pony appeared to be speaking to himself. He occasionally paced from one spot to another. Mortar stood there, waiting to be noticed, but it seemed the cloaked pony was lost in his own world.

The cloaked pony sighed. “Then again, maybe—”

Mortar couldn’t stay quiet any longer. “Hey!”

The cloaked pony gasped and spun towards him. Mortar started to say something, but all that came out was a breathless shout at what he saw. A bleached skull protruded from below the pony’s hood, its eye sockets housing glowing red dots.

“You’re here?” the cloaked pony said, as if he couldn’t believe it. “But you’re not supposed... I—I mean usually, I need to...” The pony rubbed the back of his hood, giving the impression of embarrassment. “Oh dear,” it said.

Mortar couldn’t speak. He didn’t know what to say. He didn’t know where even to start.

The skeletal pony—despite lacking one—cleared his throat. “Well, this is a little awkward.”

“Wh... who...?”

The pony, for some strange reason, took a breath. “Well, no point in putting it off. I’m who you ponies call ‘The Pale Pony of Death,’ Mortar. But you can call me... um, Mort.”

Mortar blinked slowly, wrapping his mind around the information. “You... you’re Death?”

“No, not ‘Death.’ I’m as much Death as Celestia’s the Sun, or Luna’s the Moon. I’m a ‘shade.’ We’re more like... custodians, you could say.”

Mortar grasped his head. So much was happening. He was having trouble getting his thoughts together. He didn’t know what to ask first.

Actually, he knew exactly what to ask. He was just afraid he knew the answer already. “L-listen, Mr. Mort, sir...”

“Just Mort’s fine,” the shade said.

“Okay, Mort. Listen, am I... I mean, with you being here, does it mean that—” He swallowed a lump in his throat. “I’m dead?”

“Well, it’s complicated.” The shade sat next to Mortar, his hooves fidgeting at the ground. “See, when a pony has had a very close brush with death, their soul will ‘drift’ from the mortal body, in preparation for when the body dies. Sometimes, though, they’ll be aware of it and actually see from outside their body.”

“You’re talking about an out-of-body experience,” Mortar replied.

“Yes, exactly! The same thing is happening with you, though I have to say, it’s extremely rare for a soul to drift so far away from its body like yours has.”

“Does that mean I’m still alive, then?” he asked hopefully.

“That’s... also complicated,” the shade admitted. “To be completely honest with you, Mortar, I was actually on my way to see you. Right now, you’re stable, but that could change...”

“You’re saying ‘could,’ though,” Mortar said, jumping on the word, “not ‘will.’ Does that mean I still have a chance?”

“Well, yes, but—”

Mortar instantly jumped up, his ears perking. “Ha! I have a chance!”

“But it’s not as easy as it sounds,” Mort said uncomfortably.

“I don’t care! You said there is a chance! That’s all I need to hear! Oh, I can’t wait to see Silver again,” Mortar replied eagerly, jumping around on the spot. He stopped after a while, looking around. “So,” he said with a pause, “where is my body, exactly?”

“As of right now, Canterlot General Hospital. I’ll explain the situation when we get there; it’ll be easier to see first-hoof,” Mort answered as he floated away from Mortar. “Well, just follow me.”

Mortar quickly followed the floating shade, trotting next to him. Both exchanged awkward glances as they went. Even as Mort floated along, he could not help but look away, appearing nervous.

Finally, Mortar broke the silence. “So your name is... Mort?”

“Uh huh. Have had lots of titles over the years, but I always go by my name,” Mort replied as he perked up. “Why? Is something wrong?”

“No, no!” Mortar replied, waving his forehooves. “It is just that, well, let’s just say I did not expect that the Pale Pony of Death to be named... Mort.”

“Oh,” Mort replied, scratching the back of his skull. “Well, to be honest I get that a lot. I know when ponies think of the ‘Pale Pony of Death,’ I’m not the first thing that comes to mind. They expect something, well, more scary.

“Really, though, I prefer it this way. It makes my job a lot easier, and ponies feel more comfortable talking to me.”

“That makes sense, I guess,” Mortar replied with a shrug. “It does seem better to not be scared. So, Mort, what was that you were mumbling about earlier?”

The red dots in Mort’s eye sockets darted around. He gave a slight cough, pretending to clear his throat. “W-well, you see, the thing is, uh—oh look, we’re here!”

Mortar turned his head, seeing the entrance to the hospital. The prospect of getting back to his body made him giddy. He dashed through the entrance.

Mort let out a small sigh of relief as he followed Mortar into the entrance, careful not to touch anypony as he floated around them. He finally caught up to Mortar, who was waving a hoof in front of the receptionist.

“So they really can’t see me?” Mortar asked surprised as he continued to wave his hoof.

“No, and before you ask, yes, you can walk through them, and they won’t notice anything. Don’t be too surprised; you’re not the first to ask that. It’s quite common,” Mort answered as he floated around. “Well, come on now. We still need to get to where your body is.”

Mortar stopped waving his hoof and followed the floating shade. He raised an eyebrow upon noticing that Mort was floating near the ceiling, putting extra distance between himself and other ponies when they walked by.

“Hey, Mort, any reason why you are way up there? I mean, can’t you just go right through them like me?” Mortar asked, demonstrating his point with a passing nurse.

Mort looked down at Mortar. “Well, yes, I could, but I would really rather not.”

“Why?”

“Well...” Mort scratched his chin in thought. “Do you remember what happened when you fell, exactly? What was going through your mind, I mean?”

“Oh...” Mortar said as his ears dropped down. “I remember part of it, but I saw my life flash before my eyes. It was not pleasant.”

“Well, that sort of happens if we pass through creatures. They’re sensitive to our presence, even if they don’t know it. If we so much as touch them, they could become acutely aware of their own mortality. Most of the time if anyone’s ever had an existential crisis, it’s because they got too close to me or another shade. So it just seems polite to avoid it when possible.”

“I guess that makes sense. Boy, that does not sound pleasant,” Mortar replied.

“It really isn’t. Luckily, though, those moments are usually brief, and soon forgotten.” Mort stopped next to a door and descended, landing on his hooves. “Well, here’s your room. Now, before we enter I need to warn you that what we’re going to see isn’t very pretty.”

Mortar nodded grimly.

“Ready?”

“Yes,” Mortar replied, gulping. Bracing himself, he walked through the door with Mort.

Mortar and Mort entered the room, Mortar’s ear flicking as he heard the soft hum of the machines. Quickly turning his head, he spotted the bed his body was on. He stood there, mouth agape. That is me, yet I am right here.

Mortar walked slowly to the bed, getting a better glimpse at his own body. When it came into view, he stopped, his body shivering. He fell down on his haunches, turning his head away.

His body was battered, bruised, and broken. His mane was gone and replaced with a crown of bloodied bandages, and there was a tube shoved down his throat. Numerous IVs and other needles were stuck in his legs.

“What in Equestria happened to me?” he softly asked, still unable to look at his body.

Mort quietly sat next to Mortar, fidgeting a little bit. “Well, you took a really nasty fall.”

“I know that,” Mortar quickly responded, “but what happened to my body, exactly?”

“Oh, that. Well, so far, it is a fractured skull, a punctured lung, a shattered pelvis, a ruptured spleen, broken hind legs, numerous broken ribs, and about a dozen other, smaller injuries,” Mort answered, as if reciting from a list.

“Then how am I still alive?” Mortar asked dejectedly, turning and looking at Mort.

“Well,” Mort said, “a lot of it has to do with you being an earth pony. Earth ponies are made of heartier stuff than unicorns and pegasi. In fact, I’d say most of the ponies that survive horrendous accidents like this tend to be earth ponies. This would definitely be in the top three worst injuries I’ve ever seen. Don’t ask about the others, though; you really do not want to know.”

“Oh, I see,” Mortar said, squirming a little. Slowly, he got up and walked towards his body, wanting a better look. His eyes drifted from cast to tube, mentally linking everything to what the shade had listed. He saw his hindlegs, and thought about long distances he’s had to walk, and the heavy material he’s had to carry. He looked at his shaved head, recalling nights when he had to think long and hard about how to best approach a project, and how sometimes it required delicate and precise hoofwork.

He walked closer. “So how exactly do I get into my bo—oof!”

Mortar reeled back, rubbing his nose as he ran into something. “What the hay?” Shaking his head, he looked to see what he ran into. Squinting, he saw a glass-like panel around his body.

“That’s why I wanted to show you first before explaining,” Mort said, walking over beside him. “That’s the barrier between your soul and your body. If you want to enter your body again, you’re going to have to force your way through it.”

Mortar looked at it, barely able to make it out. Placing a hoof on it, he pushed, feeling the barrier bend inwards slightly. “That’s it?” he asked, looking at Mort.

“I wish it was, but there’s a catch of sorts. The moment any part of you passes that barrier, it will be in sync with your body. What that means is that whatever your body is feeling, you’ll feel it too. So the more of you that manages to pass through, the more injuries you’re going to feel, and by the looks of it, you have a lot of painful—looking ones,” Mort replied grimly.

“Oh,” Mortar replied, his ears dropping down. “And if I fail?”

“So long as your body’s alive, you can just try again, and as many times as you want. But...”

“But?”

Mort dug a hoof into the floor, as much as an intangible creature could, anyway. “Well, if you can’t make it time, or if, for whatever reason, you just choose to quit, then I’m here to permanently sever the connection between your soul and body, thus ending your life.”

Mortar gulped, remembering that Mort had said earlier. “You said you were on my way to see me. Does that mean...?”

Mort nodded sadly. “I’m sorry, you don’t have all night to do this. I’d give it until sunrise, maybe sooner. If you can’t join with your body again in that time...”

Mortar nodded, swallowing hard. “And if I do fail...what is after life?”

“I don’t know,” Mort said, not meeting Mortar's gaze. “I’m a shade. I only ferry souls from the world of the living to their final resting place. I don’t know what happens afterward.”

“Can you help me, then?”

Mort shook his head, his tone one of regret. “I’m sorry, even if I were allowed, there’s nothing I could do that would make this easier. All I can do is answer questions, give encouragement, and offer moral support. Beyond that...” He shrugged helplessly.

Mortar nodded in grim understanding. He placed a hoof on the barrier, pushing experimentally. “So whatever part of me passes, I will feel what my body is feeling?”

“Yes.”

Exhaling, Mortar pressed a hoof against the barrier. Putting more force into it, he could feel the barrier bend inwards slightly. Grunting, he put his entire body weight into it. His hoof slipped through.

“YAARRGGHHH!” Mortar howled in pain as he ripped his foreleg out, tears in his eyes. He panted, “W—what was that?”

“Fractured metacarpal bone in your right foreleg.”

Mortar looked at him panting, his eyes wide with disbelief. He gulped looking at his body. “T—this is going to be harder than I thought.”

Between each attempt, Mort would vanish, saying he had to attend to other ponies. The first time he was only gone a few minutes, as the ponies were in Canterlot. The second time he had been gone almost an hour, these ponies far out in Equestria. Mortar knew he was running out of time, even without looking for the sunrise. His body seemed to get weaker as the night went on, looking paler bit by bit.

He was now on his third attempt. Sweat dripped down Mortar’s face; he panted, fighting back tears. Luckily, his left foreleg did not have any serious injuries, and it was easy to make it through. Unfortunately, his head was in much worse shape. His nose was bleeding, and he felt dizzy. He felt a searing pain in the back of his head from his fractured skull, and his vision became fuzzy. His body and the bed it lay on looked like one giant blur. Crying out in pain, he planted both his forehooves on the ground, forcing his way through. Slowly he got his neck past, grunting loudly.

Mortar screamed out in agony as he got his chest in. His legs buckled and failed under him, and he hit the ground. He gagged and coughed up blood, writhing in pain. “Mort,” he cried, struggling to form the words. “Pull me out!”

Mort’s horn glowed, wrapping Mortar in telekinesis and yanking him out. Mortar coughed, clutching his sides. Though he was no longer in pain, he could remember it. He wiped at the blood around his mouth, watching it disappear a moment later. He had been told it wasn't real, just a result of him still feeling like he could be harmed, even if it wasn't technically possible now.

He curled up, clutching his sides. Tears rolled down his cheeks as he began to cry. “I—I don’t know if I can do this, Mort. It is too much.” He continued to sob. “H—how is this even possible?”

Mort looked down at his hooves nervously. “Very few ponies have been able to recover from such injuries like this. In each case, they willed themselves to hang on, usually by focusing on what is very important in life—whether it be their dreams, loved ones, or unsettled grudges.”

“Grudges?”

The shade shrugged, seeming a little embarrassed. “I admit it's not the most admirable reason, but it has worked. I'm afraid your chances of success were low to start with. There's a reason not many ponies are able to make it. If you want to live again, you need to find something you’re willing to fight for.”

Mortar took a deep, unsteady breath, and got back on his hooves. “Well, then the choice is easy: I have to get back to my body. I want to—no, I need to see Silver again. She seemed mad at me on the tower, and I need to correct that. I love her. I want a life and possibly a family with her. No matter how hard it is, I have to do it. Why should I quit now?”

“Exactly! Why should you?” Mort said enthusiastically. “Silver Skip is a lovely pony, and I’m sure you two would make a great couple! You have absolutely no reason not to go back! None whatsoever.”

Mortar stared oddly at the cloaked skeleton. Something about the shade's exuberance had ringed hollow. “Mort, do you know something I don’t?”

Mort glanced left and right nervously. “Um, well, there are probably lots of things I know. I’ve been around for—”

“No,” Mortar said, cutting him off. “Do you know something about Silver?”

“Uh...she’s a pony you really like?”

Mortar looked at him flatly. “Mort, having lived here in Canterlot and dealing with my fair share of scammers and cheapskates, I can tell when somepony’s lying to me.”

Mort coughed, tugging at his collar. “I’m...I’m really not—”

“Then how is it you know her full name, when I’ve only called her Silver since we’ve met?” Mortar stepped forward, his face inches from Mort. “You said you’re supposed to answer my questions, so answer me this: what are you hiding about Silver?”

“Nothing!” he insisted.

“Wait...back at the park, you said you wondering what to do about the 'next guy', and a little while ago you said you were going to me next...”

Mort didn't say a word, but he could hear him gulping.

“This has something to do with what you were talking about at the park, doesn’t it?” he asked. “What’s going on between Silver and Celestia? Is there something wrong with her?” A fear suddenly seized him. “Is she dying? Is that why you’re not saying anything? You’re afraid I won’t go back if she wasn’t there?”

“She’s not dying!” Mort said.

“Then...then is she hiding something from me?” His thoughts focused on her cutie mark, and what they typically represented. Theater. Acting. The idea made him feel ill. “She’s not lying about who she is, is she?”

“Not...technically, no,” he said uncertainly.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” he demanded. “And why would Celestia be involved? She’s not...some kind of spy for her, is she?” It sounded ridiculous even as he said it, but he couldn’t think of another reason at the moment why she would meet with Celestia and be so secretive. Maybe if he had more time to think...

“Look,” Mort grumbled, “I’m telling you everything’s fine! She’s not spying, she’s not dying, and she’s certainly not Chrysalis!” He crossed his forelegs, as if to say, ‘I’m done.’

Mortar stared at him. “I never said she was Chrysalis. Why would you...”

Mortar trailed off. Compared to normal ponies, it was harder to tell what Mort was thinking, what with the lack of flesh and blood. Still, there were still some similarities if you know what to look for. Like how his body had just stiffened, or how his eyes now held a spark of panic in them. The kind of things a pony would do if they had just blurted out something they shouldn’t have.

Then the full implications hit Mortar. His jaw dropped and his right eye began to twitch. Mort’s awkward, guilty silence only seemed to confirm it.

“I-I didn’t mean Chrysalis,” he said. “What I meant was changeling--no, I meant Queen--NO, I meant...” The pony shade moaned miserably and buried his skull in both hooves, defeated.

Mortar’s breathing became erratic. “Y—you are telling me that Silver Skip is actually Queen Chrysalis, the very same one that attacked Canterlot barely a month ago?”

“I...guess the cat’s out of the bag.” Mort plopped down on his bony haunches, giving Mortar an apologetic look. “I’m sorry, but...yes. Silver Skip and Chrysalis are one and the same.”

“Then we have to do something about this!” Mortar shouted as he jumped up. “We have to warn somebody! Equestria is still in danger! Oh no, the changeling queen must have kidnapped the real Silver! H—how could I have fallen for her?” He rushed forward, shaking Mort fiercely. “Quick, we have to do something right now! We can worry about me later. We need to warn the princesses! Find the real Silver! Do something before--”

“Mortar!”

The pony froze. The pony shade freed himself from his grip, straightening out his cloak. He let out a deep sigh.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to raise my voice,” he said, making sure his skull was still on straight. “Listen, there’s no need to panic. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna already know.”

“They do?” Mortar breathed a sigh of relief. “Do you know if they’ve stopped Chrysalis? Did they find Silver yet? Is she okay?”

Mort hesitated. “That’s...tricky.”

“Tricky?” he said in disbelief.

“What I mean is that they know where Silver is, and she is okay, but...”

“But what?” Mortar was losing his patience. He was angry, desperate, and it seemed the only one who what was happening was remaining, figuratively speaking, tight-lipped. “Can you please stop speaking in riddles and just tell me what's going on?! I'm begging you!”

Mort seemed to stare at him for a long while.

He sighed loudly. “Okay, do you remember the day when they captured Chrysalis and brought her to Canterlot?”

“What does that have to do with anything?”

“Please, just work with me. Do you remember what happened?

“Of course I do. I did not see it personally, because I was working at the time, but I did see the crowd and commotion it was causing. It was in the news and everything! There was a huge celebration all over the city! How in Equestria did she escape?”

“Well, she never really escaped to begin with,” Mort answered. “Did anypony actually know what happened to her afterward?”

Mortar hesitated. “Now that you mentioned it, no, not really. All the palace told us was that she was taken care of, and there was nothing to worry about.”

“They were telling the truth, technically. She was taken care of, just not in the way most ponies would expect,” replied Mort.

“What do you mean?”

“Well...” Mort rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Hmm, the principle is similar, so maybe...?” He extended a bony hoof towards Mortar. “If you grab my hoof, I think I can show you what I saw.”

Mortar looked around nervously, rubbing a hoof on his leg. “I am not going to die or something if I touch you, right? I heard stories that if the Pale Pony touches you, you drop dead...”

“What the—no!” Mort exclaimed as he shook his head. “That’s just some myth! Really, I don’t know who keeps coming up with these stories. I don’t try and cause death, that would be a horrible thing to do!” The skeleton shuddered, his bones rattling.

“Hehe, sorry ’bout that,” Mortar answered as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Not used to all of this.” Reaching out his limb, Mortar grabbed Mort’s hoof.

Mortar gasped as he was suddenly floating in mid-air with Mort next to him. He was no longer in the hospital room, but now floating above the throne room of Princess Celestia and Luna. He tried to open his mouth and speak, but no sound came out. Mortar looked over to Mort, panicking.

Mort, however, just pointed downward with his hoof. Mortar followed his hoof, his eyes widening at what he saw. He saw none other than Princess Celestia and Princess Luna sitting on their thrones with Captain of the Guard Shining Armor and some other high-ranking pony. They appeared to be speaking, but Mortar was unable to hear anything. His eyes drifted towards what the four ponies were staring at.

His eyes widened as he saw what they were looking at. In the center of the room lay a bound Chrysalis. He moved to get a better look, staring directly at her. Mortar looked into her eyes, gasping as he realized they were Silver Skip’s eyes. Except for the snake-like slitted pupils, the color and everything else was the same. The same determination and stubbornness he saw in Silver were right there in her eyes.

Chrysalis’ eye twitched slightly. Looking behind him, Mortar saw both Celestia and Luna talk. He saw them get up and walk towards her while she puffed out her chest in attempt to look brace. Even in her defiance, Mortar can see her tremble slightly. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna stood a couple meters away from Chrysalis. In return, Chrysalis steadied herself by exhaling and closing her eyes, bracing herself as their horns began to glow in unison.

The magic continued, filling the room with a bright light. Mortar gasped as he watched Chrysalis’ horn slowly begin to crumble. Chrysalis’ eyes opened, looking up to see what was on falling on her face. Instead of the defiant, evil queen, Mortar saw a pony terrified and scared. This was not the monster he thought he had heard about, who was demonized and portrayed as evil by everypony—this was a pony who was alone in the world. Chrysalis looked around, seeing her horn and wings falling off. She panicked, bucking wildly in her restraints. Black flakes from her body began to float off. The glow coming from the princesses’ horns brightened. Chrysalis gave a last shout, both fear and defiance in her eyes. The light shone even brighter. Mortar covered his eyes with a hoof, unable to stand the intensity.

When the light faded and his vision returned, Mortar no longer saw Queen Chrysalis. Instead, there lay Silver Skip, the pony that he loved. She was unconscious, a look of exhaustion on her face. Celestia’s horn glowed again, removing the bindings on Silver’s body. Lifting her up with her magic, she proceeded to take her away.

All of a sudden, the vision blurred and faded away. Mortar was standing in the hospital room, the soft hum of the machines again in his ears. Blinking and shaking his head, he spoke, “So Princess Celestia and Luna turned Chrysalis into a pony? Into...Silver Skip?”

“Well, yes and no,” Mort replied as he dropped his hoof. “It's a long story, but...okay, the very first changeling happened to be a pony who used some dark magic to gain the powers she wanted. She then spawned minions and created a heir. Essentially, the leader of the changelings has always been a pony surrounded with dark magic. Celestia and Luna removed it, leaving the original pony body behind.”

“But why did they spare her?” Mortar asked, confused. “I mean, there was so much anger towards her after the attack.”

Mort rubbed the back of his skull. “It’s not my place to say, but I do know that Celestia abhors the very idea of killing; she would rather love than hate. She’s been like that as long as I can remember. Also, Chrysalis’ invasion wasn’t exactly as clear-cut as it appeared to be. See, changelings have been around for a very long time. You remember the story of the founding of Equestria? Before that, there was distrust and fear among the three races. Changelings existed during that time. They were able to feed due to the lack of communication. To make sure they were not discovered among the individual tribes, they usually killed their victims. They used the fear and mistrust to place the blame on other tribes.

“However, once the three tribes united and founded Equestria, and communication was established, they were soon discovered. Once they were known, Equestria launched a counterstrike against them. The ponies soon drove them away, thinking that they were extinct. The changelings were then buried in history, because they were considered to represent the disharmony that once existed between the tribes.

“Still, the changelings managed to survive. They went underground, scraping out an existence. They could barely gather enough love to survive, and had to feed on other beings. This continued throughout the years, and the changeling numbers only dwindled. Then, Chrysalis became the Queen. There was only one hive left with a small number of changelings at her command. At that point, they were on the verge of extinction. Chrysalis then took a gamble—she infiltrated Equestria and managed to take the form of Princess Cadence. Her original plan was to steal only a small amount of love just to survive.

“But once she felt the love Shining Armor had, it ensnared her. This was someone who had survived on what was essentially scraps her entire life, only to stumble upon an endless buffet. She couldn’t help but gorge on it. So Chrysalis did exactly that, and as her power grew, so did her ambition and pride. She wanted more, so she planned on taking over Equestria. But her hubris was her downfall.

“It’s a grey area, really. I think Celestia found her motives not to be out of hate or malice but out of survival. She just went about it the wrong way. So, upon seeing a being who had been alone for her whole life and never knew anything about relationships, Celestia spared her. Removing her magic was the only way that she could ensure the safety of Equestria and show mercy. I think she was hoping that she could show how wonderful love and friendship are.”

“So wouldn’t she want revenge or something? I mean, if Silver Skip is Chrysalis, she seems too proud not to. How do I know if she cares for me or is just using me?” Mortar asked.

“This is why I didn't want to say anything,” Mort said sadly. “If I had just kept my big mouth shut...”

“No,” Mortar said, shaking his head. “Don't blame yourself.”

Mort looked surprised. “You're...not mad I hid it from you?”

Mortar shrugged. “If it were me, I would have said so right out. I think a pony should know everything, but...I think I can sympathize with you.” He hovered a hoof over the barrier, and pressed forward. He was not surprised to see it didn't go in nearly as far as before. “You really want me to live, don't you?”

“Of course!” Mort sat beside him, looking at Mortar's body with him. “Life's absolutely wonderful, I think. You can make so many friends, do so many things, see so many places...” There almost seemed to be a deep wistfulness in his tone.

Mortar sighed. “I'm not even sure about that anymore...”

Mort looked at him, confused. “Huh?”

“Look at me, Mort,” he said, gesturing at his body. “I've seen condemned buildings in better shape than me! Even if I do get back in my body, will I ever be able to build again? Will I even be able to walk? Am I just going to become an invalid, and a complete burden to somepony else...?” He hung head his morosely. “There's just...there is just so much I am not certain of anymore.”

Mort hummed thoughtfully. “Well, I don't think there's anyway around it.”

“Huh?” Mortar watched the pony shade get up and walk into the center of the room. “Where are you going?”

“Nowhere, I'm just making a call.” He raised his head, and for a moment his horn glowed, emitting an eerie, green light.

Mortar got up and stood beside him. “Who could you be calling for now?”

“Someone who will definitely know Silver better than either of us,” he said.

Mortar stared at him. “But...who could know more than you?”

“There are lots of shades, Mortar,” he said, as the glow faded. “Shades for birds, and dogs, and insects, and fish. Shades for ponies, for dragons, for griffons...” He gave a meaningful look to Mortar. “Shades for changelings.”

Mortar's mouth dropped a little. “You're...you're calling one of them to come here? Now?”

“You don't have anything to worry about,” Mort said. “She isn't evil or anything, but...” He shrugged helplessly. “Well, you'll see.”

They waited. The occasional beep from the machines and the ticking of the clock filled the room. Mortar blinked, about to question Mort further, when a feminine voice called out. “Why hello there, boys."

Then all of a sudden a familiar voice came from above. What can I do for you?”

“Ahhh!” Mort yelled as he jumped. “Forma! Why do you always have to scare me like that?”

Mortar looked up and gasped. There, floating above Mort, was another Mort, or something that looked and sounded exactly like him. It floated down and landed next its double.

Mortar rubbed his eyes, staring in disbelief. Had he taken his eyes off when the second Mort came down, he couldn't have told them apart. What made it even worse was that they were mimicking each other. The slightest twitch or fidget, the way one Mort looked nervously between the double and Mortar, was perfectly mirrored by the other.

Finally, the Mort on the right facehooved. “Forma, why is it that every time we meet, you always copy me?”

The other burst out in laughter. That it did so it Mort's voice was somehow unsettling. “Why? Because you're way too much fun to sneak up on. It is always so cute to see you so nervous and on-edge when you know I'm coming.”

“B—but it's always so weird when you do it. Can’t you be someone or something else when we meet?”

Mortar just sat there dumbfounded, mouth agape. He blinked again and gasped loudly. Before him, with her nebulous mane, stood Princess Luna.

“P—Princess Luna!” Mortar blurted, quickly bowing down.

“Forma!” Mort shouted. “I—I didn’t mean that!”

“Rise, subject!” Forma shouted, towering over the kneeling Mortar. She stood there, a look as hard as steel on her face. Suddenly she fluttered her wings, laughing. “Oh you ponies are so funny! So timid and easy to scare!”

She landed next to Mort, draping a wing over him. “What's wrong, Mort? Does our form displease you?” Forma bellowed in the royal Canterlot dialect. Her voice dropped to a whisper, her muzzle next to where Mort’s ear would be. “I thought you would love this form, especially with Luna’s sexy rear...”

Mort jumped on the spot, scrabbling away from the doppelganger. “H—how could you say such a thing?!” he said, sounding...well, mortified.

“See?” Forma said as she jumped up, her form instantly changing into a griffon. “I love seeing your skittish reactions. They’re just so much fun to watch. Now why would The Pale Pony of Death need lil’ ol’ me?”

Mort gave a heavy sigh, rubbing his temple. “Well, it is about Mortar over here.”

Mortar finally found his voice. “Mort, what is this?” he blurted out, staring at the griffon in front of him. “You said you were summoning the changeling shade, not...whatever this is!”

“Ah, but I am the changeling shade, little pony. But why stick with one form when I can be anything I want?” In quick succession, the shade transformed from one thing into another, from creatures, to trees, to rocks, and once into something that defied description, because it seemed to contained several, more dimensions than ponies were used to.

The shade stopped, taking on the form of a royal guard unicorn. Forma looked over Mortar with a quizzical eye. “Mort, why haven't you reaped him yet?” she finally said. “Isn't he due?”

“I was getting to that,” Mort interrupted. “Forma, this here is Mortar, who is technically not dead yet. He's the same pony that has been with Chrysalis the past month.”

Mortar blinked, and now standing before him was a massive wolf.

Forma looked down, a massive and toothy grin on her face. “This is that pony? Well, well, well, befriending the enemy I see.”

“Forma,” Mort sighed “Shouldn't you know this? You are the shade of the changelings!”

“My bad, I didn't notice it right away,” Forma said nonchalantly, scratching her ears. “A lot of these ponies look the same, you know. You ever notice that? I swear they have literal copies of themselves everywhere.”

“We're getting off topic,” Mort said. “Look, thank you very much for coming out here, Forma, but we kinda have a problem. Mortar here is facing a dilemma at the moment.”

“Ah, I see!” Forma exclaimed, her form changing from a wolf to a blue-haired unicorn, who wore a suit and monocle. A file appeared out of nowhere, and she started to use it on her hooves. “Well, it's not like I have much left to do now, anyway. I had just finished reaping a changeling soul that was way past her due date. Been following her for centuries now.” Forma examined her hoof, adjusting the monocle. “So, how can I help?”

“Is it true?” Mortar asked, looking between Mort and Forma. “Is it true you know Silver?”

“Did you not just hear me? I am the changeling shade,” Forma said, her form becoming that of a changeling. “I have been watching them from the very beginning. But I must say, Chrysalis, or Silver as you know her, is by far the most interesting and personally my favorite out of all the changelings. I know I really shouldn't pick favorites, but I just couldn't help myself.” She spun and was suddenly a tall, earth pony mare, with a blue mane a white top-hat. She posed, exclaiming, “That girl is sensational!”

“Forma!” Mort said loudly. He cleared his throat and looked around nervously. “Um, sorry. Look, Forma, we do not have much time left. Mortar here is trying to get back into his body, and as we know, there is not that big a time frame for that. He has tried very hard, but he is having doubts. Since you are the closest with Chrysalis out of all of us, we want to know what she thinks of Mortar here.”

“And why is that?” Forma said, looking over at Mortar.

“Because,” Mortar interrupted, “I am trying to get back to my body, but it is just so painful. I just learned what Silver really is. Who she really is. How can I push myself if I don’t even know she cares for me?”

Forma’s shape shifted and grew into a form familiar to any pony in Equestria. Nightmare Moon stood before him, glaring at him with teal slit eyes.

“Pathetic...” Forma said sternly. “Utterly pathetic.”

“Forma!” Mort shouted. “There is no need for that kind of talk!”

“Quiet!” Forma roared out, silencing Mort. “You called me, and I will deal with it as I see fit. And you, Mortar, how weak you are to quit now. Here I thought you loved her—I guess you really don’t.”

“That is not true!” Mortar retorted. “I did love her! I...I do love her! She was the first mare that made me really happy! I desperately want to be with her, to spend my life with her!”

“Then tell me, darling,” Forma continued, her form changing into that of a white unicorn mare with a very stylish mane and a trio of diamonds for a cutie mark. “I am curious to know why you love her. You must have found her quite the charmer.”

“Charmer...?” Mortar bit his lip, uncertain how to proceed. “I...I wouldn’t exactly describe her as charming. Sometimes, she seems a little haughty, if anything.”

“Then she must have been a super fun party pony?” Forma exclaimed, her form now a pink pony with three balloons as a cutie mark. “Took you to the hippest joints, danced the night away with you?”

He chuckled, albeit uncomfortably. “Well I wouldn’t consider myself a party-goer; I grew out of that phase. We did have fun, but we never really went anywhere “hip” or the like.”

Now a purple unicorn that Mortar knew was Princess Celestia’s personal student said, “Well, then perhaps her intellect must’ve impressed you? Thought it’d be nice to have an intelligent marefriend, do all the heavy thinking?”

“Oh, well...yes, I don’t doubt she’s intelligent, but to be honest, I’ve needed to help her figure things out quite a few times.”

“Ah reckon that she must be a very strong pony, then!” Forma exclaimed, now an orange pony with apples as a cutie mark and a light brown stetson hat. “Helped you with your work and chores?”

He shrugged. “Not...exactly. I do most of the heavy lifting, I think.”

Forma then changed into a blue pegasus with a rainbow-colored mane. “Then she must be exciting to be around? Gets to be the center of attention, make you feel important?”

“Well, she does become the center of attention sometimes, but I’m usually apologizing for her afterward.” He shuffled his forehooves, looking embarrassed. “Though I do I feel important when she’s around.”

“Then she must be very kind and sweet,” Forma said softly as a yellow pegasus with a long pink mane and tail. “And you can make her do what you want.”

At this, Mortar just stared at her, completely baffled. “I’m sorry, I’m a little confused. Are we sure we’re talking about the same pony?”

“You’re confused?” Forma’s coat turned gray, and now she was a walleyed pegasus, with bubbles for a cutie mark. “What about me? I mean, here you are, saying you love her, but I don’t see why! She’s not fancy, or fun, or super smart, or strong, or exciting, or even very nice! Why would you love a pony like that?”

“I...well, I really don’t know,” he admitted. “I mean she can be downright abusive, haughty, and to be perfectly honest, a bitch sometimes. That and she tends to have a violent streak when she does not get her way. Yet,” he paused for a moment, his eyes distant. “It’s just...she is so reclusive at times, and never wants to show her true feelings. It is like she is constantly wearing a mask. But when I am with her, I feel like that mask slowly begins to crack. Sometimes I could get a genuine smile out of her, maybe even make her laugh a little. And she...she’s just so beautiful when she does. And her personality’s so strong, like she won’t ever take anything lying down. Sure, that makes her a little bossy, but I actually love that about her. She just...” He trailed off, searching for the words. “She completes me, makes me feel content. And someday...maybe I could make her feel the same way.”

“Well, one thing’s for sure.” The gray pegasus suddenly grew in size, and Mortar froze as he watched her transform into Chrysalis. “For somepony who has years of experience in seducing others, she’s going about it in a very funny way, don’t you think?

Mortar stared at her, a smile slowly growing on his face. “It is kinda ridiculous, isn’t it?” The smile disappeared. “But I’m right, aren’t it? She is hiding something, but it’s not just her identity. It’s something deeper, isn’t it?”

Forma shook her head, for the first time looking a little sad. “You have absolutely no idea the life Chrysalis had, the struggles she had to face from day one. Have you ever been so hungry that it hurt? That you can feel your stomach eating your own body? You saw how thin she looked when you first met her.” She transformed, and Mortar gasped when he was looking at Silver Skip, just as she was when he first laid eyes on her. “Tell me, when is the last time you seen a pony this thin looking anywhere in Equestria? She has been starving since the day she was born, fighting everyday to make an existence.

“But really...” She suddenly grew in size, and for a moment it looked like she was transforming into Chrysalis again. But this time there were no holes in her hooves wings. The carapace seemed heavier and strong, and malevolent, red eyes peered down at him. “She has suffered things that you simply cannot fathom.”

He felt there was some hidden meaning to the form, but he couldn’t discern it. Not now. He looked away from the large shade and back at his body. He walked over to it, once again taking in all the injuries he had suffered.

“If I made it back, but I couldn’t work again...couldn’t walk again...would should stay with me?”

“Are you now afraid she’d leave?” Forma asked, transforming into Celestia. Mortar wasn’t surprised anymore.

“Not quite,” he said. “I’m afraid...I don’t want to burden her. I don’t want her to waste years of her life just trying to take care of me.”

Forma looked up and down his body, frowning. “Yes, I’m afraid your recovery is completely dependant on the skill of the doctor.”

“So you don’t know what’ll happen,” he said.

After a long silence, Mort finally spoke. “We can predict the future to an extent, Mortar, but it’s not far reaching, nor is it always perfect.”

“Perhaps you’ll never walk again, and need somepony to stay with you,” Forma said, suddenly taking the form of a brown earth pony, who had an hourglass for a cutie mark. “Perhaps it’ll be too much for Silver to see you like this, and she’ll leave you. Perhaps being alive at all will be enough, and she’ll stay by your side for the rest of your days. Perhaps you make a full recovery, but eventually the two of you drift apart. Or perhaps you don’t, and you have children...”

“What are you trying to say?”

“I think what’s she trying to say is that the future is, and always will be, uncertain,” Mort explained, standing beside her. “There is one thing we do know, however—if you don’t try, then all of those futures, good and bad, are closed out forever.”

“Exactly.” Forma changed again, and this time Mortar was looking at his own double, only he wore a determined expression. “The only surefire way to know your future is to seize it for yourself, and make it your own. It’s up to you to take that plunge. For better or worse.”

Mortar sat there, looking both at Forma and Mort. Mort was looking at him hopefully.

“You’re right,” Mortar said as he stood. “Thank you.”

“You know what you need to do,” Forma said. She backed away, clearing a path for Mortar.

Mortar stared at his body. His hoof began to quiver as his breathing quickened. Quickly, he closed his eyes and exhaled, calming himself.

“You can do it, Mortar!” Mort exclaimed. “Just believe in yourself. Dig deep for your inner will.”

Again, Mortar walked to the barrier. He remembered the pain he had to brace himself for, and he began to pant, trying to steady his nerves.

“All right,” he whispered.

Pushing with his right hoof, he again slowly forced his way through the barrier. His body jerked and spasmed as he felt the fracture. Grunting through his teeth, he continued onward. Getting one hoof in, he began to work on his other. Again, his left foreleg was easier to make it through.

Working both forelegs in, he braced himself again, knowing that it was only the beginning. Closing his eyes, he began to force his head in. His legs buckled as he cried out in pain, struggling to keep his footing. Panting and sweating hard, he tried to focus. He felt a searing pain on the back of his head.

Grunting hard, he slowly continued to force his way through. He legs buckled and cried out in pain as he got his chest through. He fell to the ground as he jerked around.

“D—do you need me to pull you out?” Mort asked nervously, jumping on his hooves.

“No!” Mortar cried out. Panting hard, he slowly crawled his way forward.

“Silver, I am coming,” Mortar said to himself over and over as he continued.

Slowly, he got more of his body through, each inch begetting more intense pain. As he got his pelvis through, he screamed out as his body thrashed uncontrollably. Mortar’s vision blurred, and his body convulsed with pain. “Silver!” he cried out in intense agony. Digging his forehooves in the ground, and even using his head, Mortar gave one final jerk as he pulled the rest of his body through.

“Hmm, looks like he did have the guts to do it after all,” Forma said as she stood over Mortar, her form changing to that of Silver Skip.

Mortar looked up, his vision blurring and fading. “S—Silver, is that you?” he gasped.

Forma grinned. “Not quite, but you will see her soon enough.”

“Wow, you did it, Mortar!” Mort exclaimed as he stood next to Forma. “You actually did it! Oh Celestia and Luna will be so happy, too.”

Mortar squinted, his vision darkening as he tried to make out the two forms ahead of them. He was hurting, but he could not remember why. “W—who are you?” he weakly said.

“Looks like his soul is bonding to his body,” Mort said to Forma. He looked down at Mort, giving a gentle smile, or as close as a skeleton can. “Congratulations, Mortar. You did it. I do hope that we won’t be meeting again for a very long time.”

“Good luck, lover boy,” Forma said, winking at him. “You’re going to need it. She is a feisty one.”

Mortar’s eyelids were heavy, the forms in front of him now becoming nothing more than obscured shadows. “W—what?” he groaned.

Unable to keep his eyes open, he let his head hit the bed as he blacked out.

Mortar’s eyelids began to flicker. Slowly and painfully, he opened his eyes, staring at a dark room. His body felt like it was on fire as he let out a muffled cry. He thrashed around on the bed, knocking off the wires that covered his body. Mortar tried to cough, but he felt something in his throat. Now aware of the intruding endotracheal tube, he gagged. He quickly grabbed it with his forehooves and pulled it out as fast as he could. Grunting, he was surprised just how long the tube was.

There was a loud beeping around him. He panted, every breath bringing pain. But he could breathe. Mortar Brick was alive and awake.

Where am I? he thought as he looked around his room. I was falling. Silver was mad at me. I should be dead, but here I am. I can feel pain in all my limbs. It hurts—but I am breathing on my own.

The door opened quickly, and a nurse barged in with a nervous look on her face. Her eyes widened as she saw Mortar thrashing around on his bed. “Sweet Celestia, he is awake,” she whispered. She turned towards the door and shouted, “Doctor! Doctor, I need help in Mortar’s room! He is awake! Quick, I need morphine now!” She rushed to Mortar and attempted to hold him down. “Mortar, sir, please calm down. You’re going to be okay. Relax. The doctor will be here soon.”

“It hurts,” he grunted loudly.

“I know,” the nurse replied, “Just hold on; help is on the way.”

Mortar groaned through the air mask he was wearing. The morphine made the pain bearable. Still, the pain irritated him, and he wanted to get rid of it. Slowly turning his head to the side, he reached out with a forehoof and pressed the button on the morphine dispenser next to him. Unfortunately, the machine did not respond.

“Come on, you stupid machine, give me what I want,” he cried, weakly pressing the button again.

“I am afraid that is not going to work, Mr. Brick. The machine will only release a dose of morphine every couple of hours,” said a unicorn, entering the room. He was wearing a white coat, and there was a stethoscope around his neck. “Morphine, while great at reducing pain, is highly addictive, so we have to take precautions.”

Mortar tiredly turned his head to face the unicorn.

“Just relax, Mortar. I am Dr. Goodheart, and I am your personal doctor,” The unicorn brought a chair next to Mortar's bed and sat down next to the earth pony, taking a brief glimpse at the machines next to the bed before turning back to Mortar. “Well, your vitals are stable, and everything seems to be in order.”

“That’s good,” Mortar said, panting.

“Yes, it is. To be quite frank, I have no idea how you got out of the coma you were in; the signs were not good. You earth ponies are made of some hearty stuff, though. That was a nasty fall, and you were only out for a couple of days. With some physical therapy, you will be back on your hooves in no time!” Dr. Goodheart said with enthusiasm.

“R—really?”

“Indeed! When we first got you, well, it was not pretty. But with extensive surgery and restoration magic, we managed to bring you back and keep you alive.”

“Will I walk again?” Mortar asked nervously.

“Ah, yes, you will. Like I said, you earth ponies are made of some tough material. We had to basically rebuild your pelvis. But yes, with enough physical therapy you will be able to walk, though maybe with a limp. We need to see how you progress first,” Dr. Goodheart replied.

“Another thing, Doctor,” Mortar said as his eyes darted around nervously.

“Yes?”

“Is everything down there working?” Mortar asked nervously.

“Um, yes. As I said, we fixed your pelvis, and you can walk,” Dr. Goodheart replied confusedly.

“No, I mean down there,” Mortar said, looking away.

“Oh. OH! Yes, everything is fine. If you want to start a family, you do have that ability,” Dr. Goodheart chuckled.

“Thank the stars. I was nervous there,” Mortar sighed.

“Well, I will be back in while; I need to check on my other patients. Just rest for now, Mortar,” Dr. Goodheart said as he got up.

“Before you go, Doctor, one last thing,” Mortar said.

“Yes?”

“Can I have some more morphine?” Mortar asked, looking with pleading eyes.

“Nice try, Mr. Brick,” the doctor replied, laughing. “You have a long list of things to recover from; we don’t need to add an addiction to that. Besides, what would that pretty li’l mare of yours say if she found out that you were addicted to morphine?”

“Wait! Silver is here?” Mortar exclaimed, grunting and struggling to get up.

“Whoa! Easy there, son. Just lie back down. Yes, she was here a while ago, but she left after visiting hours were over,” Dr. Goodheart replied. “I must say you have one feisty mare there.”

“Yeah, she gets a little temperamental—wait, how do you know that?” Mortar asked, grunting as he lay back down.

“Well, when you first arrived here, she was right behind us. When we took you to the operating room for surgery, she demanded that she come too. When the security guard said it was not permitted, she punched him. I must say, for a small thing, she packs a punch. It took quite a few security guards to settle her down,” Dr. Goodheart answered, chuckling a little.

“Wow, that is the second time she has punched somepony,” Mortar said, laughing a little. “The pony she punched, he’s okay, I hope?”

“Oh, yes. Nothing but his pride was hurt. We gave him an ice pack, but he will have a shiner for a while.”

“Well, I am sorry for the trouble she caused,” Mortar said.

“It is fine, really. When most ponies see a loved one hurt or sick, they do get very emotional. Silver also tends to get violent. It is not the first time something like this has happened.”

“At least that is all she did,” said Mortar with a short laugh.

“Not exactly. There was one more less-violent outburst she had. When we told her we could not wake you up, she got angry. She threatened the entire staff with endless suffering if we did not do what she demanded. Luckily, security was ready and held her back from hurting anypony, including herself.”

Mortar’s eyes widened. “Really? She did all that for me?” he said through the breathing mask.

“Ah yes, a very lively mare. You are a lucky stallion to have somepony like that.”

“Wow,” Mortar replied as his eyelids felt heavy. “That is a good feeling. Well, I am feeling tired right now, Doc.”

“Yes, I imagine you are tired. I’ll leave right away.” Dr. Goodheart said as he opened the door. “Sorry, just one last thing—do you have any connection with the Princesses?”

“No,” Mortar answered. “Why?” he asked, closing his eyes and beginning to drift to sleep.

“Just wondering, is all. I’ll see you soon. Good night, Mortar,” Dr. Goodheart said as he closed the door behind him.

Chrysalis, now accepting her life as Silver Skip, walked down the hospital hallway with a saddlebag to have her daily meeting with Mortar. Her face was calm and stoic, a mask of strength. Even though Mortar was in a coma, Silver would not miss her daily meal with him. After work, she would bring both her and Mortar’s dinner. She remained hopeful that he would pull through, despite everypony else saying he wouldn’t.

As she continued on her way, she noticed a security guard wearing sunglasses. She recognized him as the one she had given a black eye. She trotted next to him and jumped at him. The guard jumped back, stumbling on his hooves. Wearing a smirk of satisfaction, she continued on her way. At least she could still inspire some fear when she wanted too.

After walking down a couple more hallways, she stopped in front of Mortar’s room. Her mask dropped with her shoulders, a depressed look on her face. Just seeing Mortar lie there motionless ate at her every single time. But she had to do it—she had to support him in every way possible. Bracing herself, she opened to the door.

“Come on, just give me some more!” Mortar whined, slamming his hoof over the button of the morphine dispenser.

Silver stood there, her heart pounding in her chest. Her hooves began to shake as she saw the sight before her. There was Mortar, awake and moving on his own. She blinked and rubbed her eyes, expecting the illusion to go away. But it didn’t, and Mortar continued to complain at the machine next to him, unaware of Silver. She took a shaky step forward, swallowing the lump in her throat as her eyes began to water.

“M—Mortar?” Silver said, surprised.

Mortar weakly turned his head, taking the breathing mask off with a hoof. “H—hey, Silver, how are ya doing?” he groaned.

Silver bit her bottom lip, sniffing as she felt tears rolling down her face. She couldn’t hold it any longer; she broke out into a run towards Mortar, crying.

She grabbed Mortar and embraced him, tears flowing from her eyes, “Mortar, I am sorry, so, so sorry. Please forgive me! I did not mean it!”

Mortar gave a cry of pain as soon as he was hugged. “Too rough!”

“Sorry!” Silver sniffed as she loosened her grip.

Panting, Mortar relaxed as he lay back down. He reached out with a hoof, stroking Silver’s back and trying to calm her.

Silver continued to cry, sobbing hard as tears continued to flow. She hated that for the second time in her life she was crying and was unable to stop. Worse was that she did not want to stop, it just felt so relieving to let her emotions out. Finally after a couple of minutes she stopped, only letting the occasional sob as Mortar rubbed her back.

“H—hey, it’s fine. So you are not mad at me?” Mortar weakly said.

Silver stared at him, not even sure how to answer. Silver tried words, but the reality of the situation completely stole them away. She knew she would have traded her kingdom twice for this, and yet only after waiting, Mortar was with her and would stay with her. Her only regret then was that she did not have the words to express her gladness.

Thus she found there was only one way. Without any thought, her hooves still around him, she tilted her head ever so slightly. Leaning in closer and without delay, her lips met his. Mortar, at first, gave a slight flinch, clearly not expecting that, but then she felt him wrap his own forelegs around her neck, pulling her closer.

Silver lost herself, not in the feeling of it, but it was as if she was telling him all about her struggles agonies and he was gladly listening was eager ears. If a picture was worth a thousand words, then for her, a kiss must have been a billion. In this moment all those fears, obligations, and past failures were completely insignificant and forever lost. In her heart she felt before that she had wronged him, but now his forgiveness was being voiced in a way words never could.

An eternity passed as she poured out her affection and relief, but sooner or later, the two had to break the kiss. Both sucked in much needed air and panted. “Wow, Silver,” Mortar said through a breath. “That was…”

She found her voice and finished the sentence. “…amazing.” Her hoof on her chest, she could feel her heart pounding...

That was different. I have kissed many ponies before, but this was different. Is this what Celestia meant by relationships? This feels nice. I can live with this.

“Mortar, I am sorry. This was my fault. I have been alone for most of my life. I thought relationships were weakness; the idea of sharing oneself disturbed me. But then I met you, and everything changed. Mortar, I have a past that I now want to forget. I want to start a new life, and more importantly, I want to start it with you. Can you give me another chance?”

Mortar stared at her, eyes wide. He reached up with a hoof and beckoned her to come closer. As she stood next to him, he placed a hoof across her cheek, wiping away the tears. “It was an accident, Silver. I would like nothing more than to be with you. I fell for you, both figuratively and I guess now literally,” he chuckled. “Now wipe away that look on your face. Everything is going to be fine.”

Silver sniffed, wiping her eyes with a hoof. “Thank you,” she replied, genuinely smiling.

“Besides, you look like a mess right now,” Mortar remarked.

Silver face hardened, and she glared at him. In a flash, she moved her head and nipped Mortar’s nose.

“Ow! Sheesh, I was only making a joke,” Mortar whined as he rubbed his nose.

“If you tell anyone about this, or how I cried I will personally make sure you stay in that bed!” Silver huffed, glaring at Mortar. After a second, her expression softened into a gentle smile.

“I would not have it any other way,” Mortar replied, smiling back.

Author's Note

Mort and Forma belong to AnonymousMaterials. Mort is from the amazing story Mort Takes a Holiday. If you have not read it, then please go read such a great story regardless.

Special thanks to my editors
Spabble
Ponysopher
Letedwend

And a special thanks to AnonymousMaterials for not only letting me use his fantastic characters, but also helping me edit this chapter, and the one before this.

XIV: Intermission (Bonus Chapter)

It was the morning meal for the royal sisters. It was the time where the Princess of the Sun was preparing to begin her day while the Princess of the Night was just about to end hers. Even without her regalia, the Princess of the Sun was as elegant as ever as she ate. Quietly munching on her food, she gazed across the table at her sister.

Throughout history, and especially after the return of Princess Luna, it was known that the two Royal Sisters represented opposites. One was the yang to the other’s yin. The elder, Celestia, represented the sun and was calm, patient, and reserved. The younger, Luna, represented the moon and was emotional, headstrong, and brash. It was not surprising that Celestia, raiser of the sun, was a morning pony. The younger sister, raiser of the moon, was not a “morning pony”.

Celestia quietly chuckled to herself as she gazed upon her sister. Even after a thousand years, her sister had not changed a bit in her habits. Luna sat there, her eyes closed while her regalia rested haphazardly and unevenly on her frame. The younger princess was quite eager to get to bed.

Munching loudly with eyes closed, Luna ate her cereal. Even with the finest chefs in all of Equestria that could prepare the finest of meals, when Luna learned of the sugary confection that was invented during her absence, she was hooked. Celestia wasn’t sure when it happened, but at some point the two had decided on having similar meals when together. Celestia’s dinner would be Luna’s breakfast, and vice versa.

“And how are you this morning, dear sister?” Celestia asked as she took a sip of water.

“Murrmm mphmm,” Luna mumbled as she took another bite.

“Really, Sister, is it too much to ask to keep your regalia straight? It is as if you had just put them on,” Celestia sighed.

Luna slowly and lazily opened an eye, chewing slowly. “Yeeshh,” she mumbled through a mouthful of cereal.

Celestia just giggled as she went back to her food.

“Sheesh,” Luna said under her breath, “I am a princess! I will wear it as I please! Besides, I am not doing anything public right now. I’ll be going to bed soon.”

“What was that Luna?” Celestia asked cheerily.

“Nothing, Sister,” grumbled Luna.

The two sisters continued on with their meals, enjoying the time to themselves.

“Psst, Luna,” a voice whispered from under the table as something poked her hind leg.

“EEEEK!” Luna shrieked as her eyes shot open, the hair on the back of her neck standing up. In her surprise she flung her spoon upwards with great force.

Celestia’s eyes widened at the sudden interruption. Her gaze slowly drifted upwards to rest on Luna’s spoon, embedded in the stone ceiling. “Luna, is everything all right?” Celestia asked, concern in her voice.

“Your Majesty, we heard a disturbance! Is everything satisfactory?” a lunar guard said as he rushed in with his partner.

“Yes, yes, everything is fine. We were simply surprised,” Luna said as she straightened her mane and regalia with her hooves. “We wish to speak to our sister in private.”

“At once, Your Majesty!” the pair of guards said as they bowed. They quickly turned around and closed the doors behind them, returning to their posts.

Luna's eyes scanned the room, flicking from left to right.

“Sister, is everything fine?” Celestia asked again as she stood up.

“Mort, what are you doing? You nearly scared me to death!” Luna said as she looked down at the table.

“Mort is here?” Celestia replied, raising an eyebrow and sitting back down.

“Sorry! I didn’t mean to frighten anypony!” a voice from under the table said.

Suddenly, a cloaked skull rose through the table and turned around. “Hello, Celestia! Hello, Luna! Oh, it is nice to see you two again,” said Mort.

Celestia and Luna stared at the cloaked skull for a couple of seconds. Soon after that, each sister brought a hoof up to her face, trying to stifle her laughter.

“I—is something wrong?” Mort asked worriedly. He looked around, trying to find what was wrong. Upon looking down, he realized that his head was in Luna’s cereal bowl.

“My, my, Luna, that is an interesting cereal choice you have,” Celestia giggled.

“Indeed it is,” Luna giggled back. “A shade in every box!”

“Oh, oh my,” Mort said. The rest of his body phased through the table and floated in between the two sisters.

“Mort! What a pleasant surprise. Tell us, what brings you to Canterlot at this hour?” Luna said.

“Oh, well, I actually just came back from a job and, well, thought I should tell you first-hoof before I leave again,” he said.

“What happened?” Celestia asked.

“Well, you know Mortar Brick, right?”

Both Celestia and Luna’s faces grew grim. “He did not make it, did he? I was afraid of that. She is so young and has suffered so much, and now another tragedy has befallen her,” Celestia said sadly, her ears slightly drooping.

“Oh, no, no!” Mort blurted. “I came to tell you the opposite! He made it through and is now awake and expected to make a full recovery.”

Celestia then gave a huge sigh of relief. “That is wondrous news indeed. Thank you for telling us, Mort. It does make me happy, knowing that she got him back. Finally something good has come her way.”

“Huzzah! That is most wondrous news!” Luna shouted, “Sister, we should tell Silver at once!”

“Luna, we have interfered enough with her life. I think it would be best if she learned it on her own.” Celestia replied.

“Whatever do you mean sister?”

“This is her and Mortar’s moment, there is no need for us to interfere. We can talk to her later. Right now, just let her enjoy herself.” Celestia answered as she raised her teacup. “Come sister, let us finish our meal.

“Mort, would you care to join us?”

Mort let out a loud sigh, dropping his head. “You know I’d love to, but duty calls. I have to wing it out to Las Pegasus, and after that...” He trailed off, his tone saying everything.

“Oh,” Luna replied as her ears dropped slightly. “We understand, Mort. Hopefully we can spend some more time together soon.”

“Me too,” he said.

“You are always welcome here, Mort,” Celestia replied, offering a gentle smile. “So whenever is a good time for you.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” he told her, rising towards the ceiling. “Good luck with Silver Skip.” Before he had even hit the plaster, he vanished from sight.

The morning air was cool and moist. Mort could hear the train starting up in the distance as the Canterlot citizenry prepared to travel to the nearby towns for work or pleasure.

The pony shade was surprised to see someone waiting for him above the castle.

“Heya, Mort!” Forma said, letting her forelegs dangling over a cloud she was lying on. This time she was a pegasus with a dark coat and a blue mohawk. “Mind if I fly with you for a bit?”

“Huh? Oh, sure.” It was rare for shades to accompany each other, given all the territory they had to cover for their species, but...

“Oh. That’s right,” Mort muttered.

“Something up?” Forma asked, floating down to him.

“Oh, nothing,” he said, waving his hoof dismissively. He didn’t want even to think about it right now. Forma didn’t seem all that bothered, anyway. “Let’s go.”

The two of them flew off. In moments, the city was at their back, and on the horizon the sun was just beginning to rise, casting its morning rays across Equestria. Across the continent, ponies were waking up, and a number of unfortunate accidents wouldn’t be far behind.

They had been flying together for a minute when he finally spoke. “I'm surprised you didn't tell him.”

“Hmm?” The brown owl that was Forma looked at her fellow shade. “Tell him what?”

“Well, about the possession and everything,” Mort said.

“Oh, right.” She flew a loop in the air, returning as a phoenix. “I had thought that you already told him. You're always around when anything attacks Celestia, so I doubt you didn't know the details.”

“True, but I just figured that you'd be able to explain it better. You know, being their shade and everything.” He turned himself upside down, watching the country of Equestria pass by in a blur below. A farm and a small town zipped by beneath, and soon they were passing over the edge of the Everfree Forest. It was followed by an influx of data that revolved around natural laws that didn’t exist elsewhere—laws that, for instance, allowed the weather to act on its own without assistance from pegasi. “So, why didn't you? It seemed like such a surefire thing.”

“Oh, I agree!” The phoenix twirled, burning bright. Her flames extended until they were the trail left by a pegasus mare, who soared through the sky in a Wonderbolts jumpsuit. “If I told him, he would've known for certain that Chrys—I mean, Silver Skip, loved him deeply.”

“Which goes back to my original question,” he said, righting himself. He swerved a little to the left, avoiding a bird in mid-flight.

The fiery-maned pegasus shrugged.“To be completely honest? I was testing him.”

If Mort had eyebrows, one of them would have been raised in confusion. “Huh?”

“Think about it. Mortar chose to go back to Silver, simply because he believed in her that strongly. Few ponies would be so certain of how they felt. Now I'm extra confident that things will be all right between them.” She clapped her hooves together, and her mane turned blue, with lightning bolts becoming her cutie mark. “Besides, if he still had cold hooves, you would have just told him about the possession and attempted sacrifice anyway.”

“Sacrifice?” he said confused. “What are you talking about?”

Forma stared at him incredulously. “What am I talking about? Lilith wanted Silver to sacrifice Mortar’s life and literally take his heart. It would’ve restored her and everything.”

Mort stared at her in horror, his eyes shrinking to pinpricks and jaw hanging open.

Forma was stunned, her eyes widening and jaw dropping. “You really didn’t know?”

“No!” he exclaimed. “This is the first I’ve ever heard of it! Why wasn’t I informed?”

Forma blinked her eyes slowly, then she suddenly started to laugh. Her coat turned white and the blue mane became blond and frizzy.

“Forma, this isn’t funny!” Mort said, becoming irritated. “A pony came close to getting murdered, and I wasn’t even there!”

“Are you sure, Mort?” she said, sounding quite happy. “Perhaps it was just that the chances of her accepting the offer were smaller than we would have thought. True, she had considered it at the time. There was still a part of her obsessed with revenge against the princesses. Yet in the end it was her ‘heart’ that prevailed and let her spare him.” A glow surrounded her, and flying in the pegasus’ place was now a pink alicorn, with a crystal heart for a cutie mark. “She’d rather be with Mortar and befriend Celestia and Luna rather than become a full fledged queen and be alone. True love over absolute power! Isn’t that romantic?”

“Oh—well, yeah, I guess it is,” he admitted. Truth be told, he had been a little doubtful about Chrysalis reforming, and was half-certain he might find himself in front of her after some act of violence on her part. That her best chance of returning to power couldn’t even warrant his observation spoke volumes about how much she changed.

It got him thinking about the antagonist in all this. “You know, this reminds me. How did it go with—Lilith, was it?”

“Yes,” she said, her form increasing in size, a black carapace covering her entire body as she took on the form of the giant changeling. “I'll admit she was a little difficult. She'd been piggybacking from one changeling queen to another for so many generations, and she was very reluctant to let Silver be. She even threatened to haunt her, Mortar, and their descendants for generations to come.”

“Yikes.”

“Yes, ‘yikes.’” She sighed, her form shrinking, holes appearing in her hooves and wings as she took the form of Chrysalis. “You know, the only thing that was passed down from Lilith to Chrysalis was the stubborness. Other than that, they were completely different. Lilith was malicious in every sense of the word. Even before I awoke to my sentience, something about her always felt ‘off’ to me. If I’m to be completely honest, Mort, I think the first emotion I ever felt was envy.”

“Envy?” he said, confused. “For what?”

“For you,” she said, as she transformed into another pegasus, this one with a white coat and a frizzy, blond mane. “Ponies are very kind and sweet, have so many different personalities, and make for good company. Lilith, however, was about as cutthroat as one could be. She was dirty, manipulative, and astoundingly arrogant. But beneath that blusterous exterior, she was deeply afraid of dying. She knew that even with all her power, she couldn’t hold back the sands of time. Age would claim her, if nothing else.

“So she did everything she could to make sure that we would never meet. What she did to her descendants was, frankly, deplorable, trying to steal their bodies while leaving them starved. The real irony of it all is that her wanton cruelty and disregard for her descendants is probably what sparked the first inklings of sympathy within me. It put me on a path where I started to personally care about her children, and even hope that they could survive and adapt to such a harsh world. Fortunately, with each new generation of kings and queens, they gradually became less like Lilith. They gained some semblance of a heart, so to speak.” As she spoke, she shifted from one changeling form to another, all different, save similarities in height, and a lack of compound eyes.

“But she has passed on?” Mort asked. They were now leaving the airspace of the Everfree Forest, and Mort could feel the natural laws reasserting themselves. “They won’t have to worry about her spirit causing trouble again?”

“Oh, don't worry. She has.” Forma glowed radiantly, and in an instant Celestia had replaced the pegasus. “After your good friend incinerated her corporeal body, she lost nearly all the power she had accumulated over the centuries. It would take many years just to begin recouping that lost strength.” Celestia's form shrunk, and she looked like Lilith again, but this time not nearly as opposing. She was thin, her hair was falling out, and her carapace looked brittle. “Ultimately, I was able to convince Lilith that it was time to move on, but it wasn’t easy. She was still very reluctant to leave Silver be, and I had to bite my tongue a few times to avoid saying anything that would enrage her.” She tiredly. “I never realized that being so serious was so exhausting. I don’t know how Thanasia can be like that all the time.”

“So how did you convince her?”

“Cold, hard facts,” she said, transforming into a gray earth pony that wore spectacles and a sweater. “I told her that attempts to bring back the changelings would just be an exercise in futility, given how much different the world is now compared to back then. Ponies have found ways to exchange information quickly with each other, their magical knowledge has advanced, and with both princesses back and stronger than ever, she would have to deal with opposition more powerful and far better coordinated than it was those many years ago. Aside from that, I gave her a rough estimate of how long it’d take her to become that powerful again; there was a strong chance that the complete isolation and inability to do anything would have driven her mad. Even if she could hold on to some semblance of her personality, by then Silver and several generations of descendants would probably be dead and buried.” Forma grew quiet, and Mort could detect the sadness behind her words.

“So yes,” she said, recovering, “any way you looked at it, all that staying here would accomplish would be to hold onto an ambition that could never be fulfilled, and to pursue a revenge that may very well become moot in an instant. When she was confronted with all that, I’m happy to say that she finally saw reason and decided to pass on.”

“That’s good,” Mort said, relieved. “So it’s all over, then!”

“Yes, it’s over,” she said. Her form started to waver. “The time of changelings has come to an end. It came sooner than some, but it came all the same...” A look of sorrow suddenly crossed her face, and the white-maned pony suddenly shrunk and turned black, losing all semblance of form, until it was an amorphous blob with green eyes.

Mort became concerned. She hadn't looked like this in centuries. She was always embarrassed describing how she looked originally, and she’d said she would never go back to such a “boring” form. “Forma, what's wrong?”

“Oh, don't you see, Mort? It's over. I'm a changeling shade, and the changelings are finished.” She became a pterodactyl. “Gone.” A dodo bird. “Extinct.”

Mort looked at her sympathetically. That fact had been at the back of his mind ever since he saw Forma tonight, but he hadn't dared to bring it up. “Well, I personally think you've been a great shade, Forma. I'm sure when a new species pops up—”

“I don't want a new species!” The dodo was replaced by a small orange pegasus filly with a purple mane, tears brimming in her eyes. “The changelings were my species! I know they did terrible things, Mort, but I loved them all the same! The way they looked, the wondrous structures they could make, the way they could shape shift into so many things... What sort of species could they give me after that? An insect? A bird? A lizard?” She turned into all of those things in turn before settling on her amorphous form again. “I'd rather disappear than—”

In an instant, Mort was in front of her, and the ex–changeling shade collided with him. She reversed herself, her form twisting into a serpentine shape with an amalgamation of limbs from different creatures, most significantly a dragon-esque body and a horned pony head. “Hey, what's the big...” Her voice tapered off when she saw the hard stare Mort was giving her.

“We are not going to have talk like that,” he told her sternly.

“But—”

“No buts!” He floated upward until his head was level with hers. To an outsider, it would have looked as if the pale pony were having a staring contest with the spirit of chaos. “I know you're upset about what happened to the changelings. I can't even begin to imagine what it must feel like to see something you've watched over for so long die out like they did.” He gently grasped her head between his hooves, staring straight into her eyes. “But that doesn't mean you have to disappear too.”

Forma stared at him silently for a moment, her body gradually shrinking and changing into that of a normal changeling. “Mort, I don't want to reap some primitive species that can't even say a word to me. You're not the only one who likes to talk your souls. The drones were boring, I know, but the queens and kings...” She trailed off, lost in memory.

He let his hooves slip, his gaze softening. “You're right,” he said. “So maybe you shouldn’t have to do a new species, or at least not right away. Maybe...” He tapped his jaw thoughtfully. “Maybe... you could help us.”

She tilted her head to one side in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“Ponies, griffons, and the other sentient species are all growing in population,” he said. “It's only getting harder for the rest of us. Maybe you can help us out. You're an incredible shape shifter, Forma. You could stand in for any of us when we’re occupied.”

Forma bit her lip, her form changing to match Mort’s. “Would I—have to look like you guys?”

It wasn’t meant as an insult. Mort knew that Forma could never stand to be only a few shapes or hold one shape for more than a few minutes. “Of course not,” he said cheerfully. “Most ponies don't even have me right, remember? They think I'm tall, dark, grim, and TALK LIKE THIS.”

The two of them giggled at the incredibly deep voice.

“Not just me,” he said, reining himself in. “Keres is supposed to have a hauntingly beautiful voice...”

“But she's mute,” Forma said, becoming a griffin who wore silk robes with intricate gold patterns.

“Right, and Cloudwalker's supposed to be incredibly wise and mature...”

“But he's the exact opposite,” she chuckled, transforming into a buffalo who wore a wide array of beads and feathers, his face marked with white, green, and blue paint.

“Exactly. So what if you won't be what they expect? So long as you're there to comfort them, it shouldn't matter what you look like.”

The buffalo smiled and suddenly transformed into the spitting image of Twilight Sparkle, who squeezed the pony shade in a big hug. “Oh, you're the best ‘big brother’ anyone could hope for, Mort!”

For a moment, he was stunned. It was so rare for Forma to be anything but lighthearted. In the past, there had always been some playful jab in her actions and transformations. This time, it was entirely sincere.

It hadn't occurred to him until now how little they called each other family.

He returned her hug, rubbing her back. “Thank you, Forma.”

A minute later, the two of them released. In Twilight's place, there was now Luna. “So, where to now?”

“Well, I need to get to Las Pegasus real quick.” He took a moment to observe his surroundings. The ground below was devoid of almost all grass, and a quick calculation put the two of them near the edge of the desert. “A few ponies are going to be waking up to a tiger in their bathroom—don't ask, I'll tell you later—and there's a fifty-fifty chance of one or two getting mauled to death. Then I have to rush over to Dodge City, and... well, same-old, same-old.”

The countenance of Luna frowned at him.

“What?” he asked.

Forma sighed. “I’m sorry, Mort. I've been meaning to tell you this since last night, but... Don't you think you're getting a little too involved?”

“What do you mean?”

Forma scratched her foreleg, looking uncomfortable. “Well, you really went out of your way for Mortar last night. It should have just been enough to tell him what to do. You didn't have to explain everything about Chrysalis, or what she's been through, or constantly check on him, or call me, or—”

“So what if I did?” he asked defensively. “It's not like I did anything wrong! I didn't help him directly, and in the end it helped Silver out, too!”

“And you'll always have my gratitude for that, Mort. I mean it. Just...” She closed her eyes, and Mort gasped a little as she grew, her blue coat become as gray as ash, the moon cutie mark replaced with a green-flamed candle. Eyes like lanterns gazed out sadly from behind white hair. “Just remember you're a shade first, before anything else. No matter how painful it might be. And it will be painful. I speak from experience...”

He nodded stiffly at the image of Thanasia, almost disconcerted from hearing such soft and sad words from a normally distant and stoic figure.

Thanasia disappeared in a flash, now replaced by a pegasus mare with a cream-colored coat and a brown mane, sporting the image of a flaming tire on her flank. “Well, I gotta see go see the boss now, see what she thinks of your idea,” she said, her cheery tone a complete reversal from what it had been a moment ago . “Try not to be late to Dodge City, okay?”

Forma took off, her form changing several more times before Mort lost her.

The pony shade floated there, thinking about what Forma had said. It sounded almost like a warning, but he didn't see the point of it. He knew he was a shade before anything else. Really, he should've felt at least a little insulted by the implications.

So why did it bother him so much, then?

He went on his way to Las Pegasus, soon putting Forma's last words to him in the back of his mind.

He had a job to do.

Author's Note

Mort and Forma belong to AnonymousMaterials. Mort is from the amazing story Mort Takes a Holiday. If you have not read it, then please go read such a great story regardless.

In this previous chapter, there was a couple segments that my I removed because it did not fit with the rest of the chapter. So I made them into their own chapter.

Special thanks to my editors
Spabble
Ponysopher
Letedwend

And a special thanks to AnonymousMaterials for not only letting me use his fantastic characters, but also helping me edit this chapter, and the one before this.

XV: Ode to Joy

“Silver, dear,” Rye Bread called out behind the counter.

“Yes, Mrs. Bread?” Silver answered, turning her head back. Her mane and coat were slightly disheveled from a long day of work. Her apron was covered in food stains, and she was sure she smelled like burnt bread.

“I know it is close to closing up shop, but there are two more ponies sitting outside, waiting to be served. Can you be a dear and see what they would like?” Rye asked as she carried a crate of dishes.

Silver turned her head and looked at the clock, which read 4:55 p.m.: five more minutes until closing time. She looked back at Rye Bread. “Of course I will, Mrs. Bread,” she replied with a pleasant smile. She got up and grabbed her notepad in her teeth and made her way to the door. As soon as she turned her head, her smile turned to a scowl, and her ear flicked in annoyance.

Oh, you have got to be kidding me! Silver thought. Five minutes until I am off, and two more freaking customers come? I want to leave and go to Mortar, but no, two more annoying ponies need something NOW.

Grumbling under her breath, she lifted her head, wearing a large, pleasant smile. Lifting a hoof, she opened the door and walked outside.

Squinting her eyes against the sunlight, she scanned outside, trying to find the two customers. Her eyes locked onto two figures sitting in the corner. Her jaw dropped, and the notepad fell to the ground.

Seated in the corner were two mares. One was a white pegasus with a pink mane and magenta eyes. The other was a light blue unicorn with a darker blue mane, glasses, and teal eyes. The glaring thing about the two was how tall, delicate, and elegant they looked compared to the average pony. Both turned their heads towards Silver, and each one gave a welcoming smile.

Silver’s eye and ear twitched ever so slightly. She turned her head around, her eyes scanning the area to verify that nopony was around. After a moment, she quickly trotted towards the table. Upon reaching it, she placed her forehooves on top of it, bringing her face close to the two other mares, glaring at them.

“What are you two doing here?” Silver said in an annoyed tone, frowning slightly.

The slightly taller white pegasus turned her head to the pony beside her. “Sister, she saw right through our disguises. I told you that this was not enough,” she sighed loudly.

“What?” the blue unicorn exclaimed as she jumped in her seat, the glasses lowering slightly on her muzzle. “These disguises are perfect; we made them ourselves! You are the one that suggested we make them.”

“Yes, I did, but I also said that these forms are too tall and slender; we stand out from other ponies,” the white mare said as she rubbed her temple with a hoof.

“Nonsense!” the unicorn huffed, puffing out her chest. “There is no need for us to hide our natural beauty! You said yourself that others try to mimic our image. I take pride in the way I look.”

“But the point I am trying to make is that Silver saw right through it. We stick out like a sore hoof. I told you we should have toned it down a bit.”

“Our magic is not flawed, Sister. I have done more than enough and then some. I am even wearing these glasses for added effect,” the unicorn countered as she levitated her glasses off her muzzle. “Besides, I wanted to do more, but you stopped me.”

“You wanted to wear a moustache!” the pegasus replied as she slapped her on the face with her hoof.

“So? You told me that I should become acclimated to modern culture, and I did. Every time I watch a movie, the characters always use a moustache for a disguise. It always worked in the movie!” the unicorn exclaimed as she lowered the glasses back on her muzzle.

The white pegasus sighed loudly. “Sister, I told you that they were doing that as a joke. It was done for comedic effect. It does not really work.”

“It worked in the movie!” the unicorn replied back as she stomped her hoof on the ground.

“Just because something happens in a movie does not mean it is real. There is a difference between reality and what is in portrayed in movies,” the pegasus answered, again rubbing her temple with a hoof and closing her eyes.

“Then why did they put it in the movie if it does not work?” the unicorn huffed back as she stomped her hoof again.

Silver watched, dumbfounded. Her jaw was hanging and her eyes wide as she watched the two mares bicker in front of her. Quickly shaking her head out of her daze, she cleared her throat loudly.

“Sorry to interrupt your fascinating discussion, but can you two explain why in Equestria you two are here when I am at work?” Silver said in an annoyed tone while raising an eyebrow.

Both mares turned to look at her, blushing slightly. “Sorry about that. We tend to get a little distracted when we go at it a little bit,” the pegasus replied.

Silver scrunched her eyebrows slightly. “I can see that.”

“How did you see through our disguises so easily?” the blue unicorn asked as she straightened her glasses.

Silver gave a loud sigh. “Your eyes were a dead giveaway. I remember those eyes. That and you do stick out a lot. Your form is very distinctive.”

“I told you, Sister,” Celestia said.

“Hmmph!” huffed Luna.

Silver rubbed her temple for a second, and then she turned around and started to walk towards the bakery again. “I will be right back; I am getting some coffee.”

“Oh, no, please. We know it is late, and we do not want to give you extra work,” Celestia called with a gentle smile.

Silver stopped, turning her head. “It is not for you; I am going to need a cup.”

Celestia, Luna, and Silver Skip sat around a small circular table, each with their own cup of coffee. Silver looked down at her cup and eyed the pitch-black coffee inside. Picking it up, she gave it a slight sniff before she took a large sip. She felt the warm and bitter liquid stream down her throat. Placing the cup back down, she gave out a large sigh.

“So, what brings the princesses of Equestria to this little establishment here?” Silver asked as she looked at the two mares in front of her.

Celestia’s horn glowed slightly as she poured a small amount of cream and sugar into her cup. Once done, she picked up a stirrer and began to mix her drink. “We heard Mortar Brick woke up. My sister and I were thrilled when we heard the news. We wanted to see how you were doing and make sure everything is all right.”

Silver looked down slightly, a small smile forming on her face, “You know, everything is good. Mortar is expected to make a full recovery soon, after some physical therapy.”

“’Tis wondrous news indeed,” Luna replied as she picked up a sugar packet with her magic. She poured the contents into her cup, and discarded the used packet to a small mountain of empty sugar packets. “‘Silver’ is the name you want to be addressed by, correct?”

“Yes, it is.”

“I see. Before we start, I must ask you a question,” Luna said as she looked at Silver. “Do you still resent my sister and I for our actions against you?”

Celestia’s eyes widened, her wings lightly fluttering. “Sister! Is that an appropriate question?”

Luna turned her head towards Celestia, a serious look on her face. “Sister, both you and I are wondering the same thing right now. Besides, it is better to get the truth out in the open now. If she does still resent us, then it would be awkward for her if we stay here.” Luna turned her head back towards Silver, her face impassive. “Silver, it would be best if you were honest with us. There will be no repercussions if you express your feelings. If you do still resent us, my sister and I will leave you alone from now on.”

Silver sat there as she stared into her cup, watching the slight ripples in it. After a while, she let out a loud sigh and looked up to the two princesses.

“You know,” she said in a soft tone, “after the trial, all I could think about was revenge on both of you. I was so furious at you two for what you had done. But a funny thing happened along the way, and I am pretty sure Celestia planned on it. After I met Mortar, I slowly became adjusted to this new environment. Slowly but surely, I started to enjoy life. However, I could not admit that to myself. That’s when Mortar got injured. I was so confused and hurt, I did not know what to do.

“That’s when she came. If it were not for Celestia destroying her, I would have lost everything that I cared about. She may have tried to steal everything from me, but she made me realize that this life is good. When I look back on it all, I am surprised at how much has changed. But what surprises me the most is how little I care about what happened, about my past life. I am enjoying my life now. So, to answer your question—no, I do not resent you two.”

Celestia and Luna smiled gently in response. Silver lifted her cup and took a sip of her coffee. Exhaling, she put it back down and smiled back. Silver smiled back. “It is shocking how much easier life is when I’m not holding a grudge. It is as if... as if...” She trailed off.

Luna spoke up. “As if, through your intense desire for vengeance, you had waged a great war in which you had to don a suit of armor so that you would not be injured. At first, when the flames of war burned passionately inside you, you were thankful for it. You were untouchable, a goddess striking down mortals. However, when the years dragged on, and there seemed to be no end to the long, excruciating conflict, which only escalated as your desire to vanquish your foe became more and more desperate, the armor became increasingly heavier, and it began to cut into your skin.

“That which had once protected you from your opponent now hindered you, which only made you want more to defeat your nemesis for making you suffer the agony of the war. Before long, you realized that trying to bear the armor was even worse than bearing the war’s horrors. Exhausted and demoralized beyond possibility of rest or recovery, you could barely flail in battle, and you realized that you were hurting yourself more than your adversary. You might have won a battle here or there, but with each passing engagement, the increasing weight of the armor threatened to crush you.

“And then, finally, you began to ask yourself, ‘Even if I win this war, what will I gain? I may destroy my enemy, but I will fall in the act.’ Yet, in the silent darkness of your despair, you realized that there was a perfect solution that had been staring you in the face all along. The enemy against whom you were so desperately fighting did not wear that suit of armor. Rather, she had surrounded herself with allies who defended her, and she in turn defended them. But, most evidently, they did not harm her like your armor harmed you. At the moment this epiphany struck you, you asked yourself, ‘If I took off this armor and approached her with a white flag, would she strike me?’

“This question in itself is unnecessary, however, because you knew that it would be better to fall than to suffer another wound in this now ancient conflict. As soon as you undid the clasps of your breastplate and unlaced the straps of your shoes, and they fell onto the ground with an earth-shaking thud, you felt the most serene relief. Having left behind your armor, you approached her camp with a white flag without any fear because you no longer had anything to lose. Yet, contrary to your expectations, before you even passed over the lines of battle, your archenemy came galloping out to meet you with her neck arched upward, offering a friendly nuzzle. Then, when you accepted her welcoming embrace, she eagerly led you into her kingdom, where your prosperity now lasts for the rest of your life. And any time any problem or any other enemy threatens you, you do not fear because you have an ally that will not betray you.”

“Yeah...” Silver said, wide-eyed. “How did you know?”

Luna chuckled lightly. “You and I are more alike than you think. We both have past actions that we wish to forget.”

Silver looked down, smiling.

“So, Silver, can I say we are friends from now on?” Luna asked as she raised her hoof and held it over the table. She looked over to Celestia, smiling.

Celestia grinned back and mimicked her sister’s actions, holding a hoof next to her sister. “Friends?”

Silver stared at the two hooves in front of her. In an instant she began to recall everything that had happened recently: her failed invasion, her punishment, and finally Mortar. A smile began to form on her face. Lifting her hoof, she shook the two hooves in front of her. “Yes, friends indeed.”

“Oh, how wonderful!” Luna exclaimed loudly. Quickly, she moved across the table and picked up Silver, embracing her in a large hug.

Silver’s eyes widened, a slight blush forming across her face from the sudden contact.

“Oh, sorry about that,” Luna said bashfully, gently placing Silver back down and moving back to her seat. “I tend to get a little excited when I make friends.”

“I can see,” Silver replied as she fixed her mane.

Celestia only smiled as she gently lifted her cup and took a sip, her sister following suit after Luna put another sugar packet in her beverage.

“So,” Celestia said after she placed her cup down, “how are you doing?”

“I am doing well. When I saw Mortar moving, I was so happy; I did not know if it was real or not. Now that he is awake, I just can’t i—imagine life w—without him.” Silver struggled to get the words out as tears formed in her eyes. She wiped her eyes with a hoof.

“I—I do hate you for this. Ever since you saved me, I can’t stop doing this. Once I start crying, I just c—can’t control myself,” Silver continued as more tears flowed down her face. She sniffed loudly in an attempt to hide the tears. The more she tried to hide them, the more they continued to flow. She gasped slightly as she felt something brush against her back. She looked up and saw Celestia standing above her, wrapping a wing around her.

“There, there, it is all right. There is no shame in expressing your feelings. Really, it feels quite nice to let it all out, to get it out of your system,” Celestia replied as she pulled Silver closer with a wing. “There is no weakness in expressing yourself.”

Silver looked up, drying her eyes with her hoof. “You were right, Celestia. I hate to admit it, but you were right. Your way is better. I can’t imagine a life without Mortar.”

Celestia and Luna in return only offered a warm and gentle smile.

“Is this how you defeat your enemies?” Silver continued. “With doe eyes and hugs?”

Luna chuckled. “At first, I disagreed with my sister, but I can see why she does it the way she does. It does work. ’Tis much better—and less messy, anyways. Why worry about enemies when you can have friends instead?”

Silver grinned slightly, calming herself down. Minutes passed as a gentle breeze filled the air. Finally, Celestia and Luna stood up. “Well, Silver, we seem to have taken too much of your time. We know you want to go and visit Mortar, so my sister and I will take our leave. If you need anything, do not hesitate to ask; we would be more than happy to help.”

Silver watched as they stood up. As they turned around, Silver found herself shaking slightly. Gulping, she quickly stood up.

“Wait,” Silver cried out as she raised a hoof.

The two sisters stopped and turned their heads, their eyes widening slightly in surprise at the sudden outburst.

“T—there is something that I want you two to do, actually,” Silver said, staring at the ground.

Both sisters glanced at each other, surprised. Turning around, they gently sat down next to Silver. “Yes, what is it?” Luna asked.

Silver continued to look down at her hooves. Giving a loud sigh, she looked back up at the two sisters.

“Ever since Mortar woke up, something has been gnawing at me. I want to move on with my life,” Silver said quietly.

“What is wrong, dear?” Celestia asked.

“I want to tell Mortar who I really am. I know if I don’t, it will just continue to eat at me. He deserves to know, too, after what I put him through.”

“I understand your desire,” Luna commented, “but I am confused on what that has to do with us.”

“Your subjects practically worship you two. I am afraid that if I tell him by myself, he will not believe me. But if you two are here, then he will have to listen to you two,” Silver replied, shivering slightly.

Celestia smiled, again wrapping a wing around Silver. “If that is what you wish, then my sister and I will be there.”

Mortar looked at the half-eaten food before him, idly poking it with a fork. He let out a loud sigh.

I am so bored, where is Silver? It is not like her to be late. I wonder what is keeping her.

Letting out another sigh, he dropped his fork and stretched his forelegs slightly. Although his body was still sore, he was getting better every day. He grunted as he moved his hind legs slightly. His doctor had said that the physical therapy would start very soon.

At least I can feel them.

The door clicked. Mortar jumped a little as he turned his head to see Silver Skip walk in.

“Silver!” Mortar cried out. Grunting, he tried to sit up using his forehooves.

“No, Mortar, stop it,” Silver called out as she rushed to his side. She gently helped him back down. “Please, just take it easy. It is all right.”

“If you say so,” Mortar replied as he lay back down, panting a little bit.

“So,” Mortar continued as he turned his head towards Silver, “what is up? It is not like you to be late.”

Silver turned her head away slightly, scrunching up her face slightly.

“Hey, what is wrong?” Mortar asked as he reached out with a hoof.

Letting out a loud sigh, Silver turned her head and faced Mortar. Her emerald eyes stared directly into his brown eyes. “Mortar,” Silver said as she gently held his head in her forehooves, “I love you, I truly do. I love you with all my heart and soul.”

Mortar’s eyes widened, a blush growing on his face. “S—Silver, I love you too,” Mortar said softly. However, he was interrupted as Silver put her hoof gently over his mouth.

“Mortar, I truly want to be with you for the rest of my life. You were the first being that I grew close to. Mortar, I need to tell you something, and I am very afraid right now,” Silver continued, tears slowly forming in the corner of her eyes.

“Silver, what’s wrong? What is going on?” Mortar asked nervously.

Silver turned her head, looking at the door. “You two can come in now,” she called out.

The door suddenly opened as two mares walked in. One was a dark blue unicorn, and the other a white pegasus. Both were tall and elegant. The unicorn’s horn glowed as the door gently closed.

“Silver, who are these ponies?” Mortar asked, his eyes darting back and forth between the two mares.

“Go ahead,” Silver continued. “Show him.”

Both mares nodded, and again the blue unicorn’s horn glowed. Her aura surrounded both herself and the mare next to her. Suddenly, there was a flash of light, and Mortar squinted. After the light faded, he gasped as Princesses Celestia and Luna stood before him. Neither of them wore any of their regalia, yet they were still as elegant as ever.

“Hello, my little pony,” Celestia said in a soft voice.

“Your Majesties!” Mortar shouted as he struggled to get up.

“At ease, Mortar Brick,” Luna called out as she raised a hoof. “There is no need for such formalities. Also, you are injured, so please rest.”

“S—Silver, what are they doing here?” Mortar whispered into Silver’s ear.

“Mortar, they are here because of me,” Silver replied, looking into his eyes.

Mortar’s eyes widened. “Wait,” he cried out, “this has to do with Silver hitting Prince Blueblood, isn’t it? L—look, it was not her fault! He was being disrespectful and—”

“Easy, easy,” Celestia said as she raised her hoof. “Silver is not in any sort of trouble. Actually, she wants to tell you something.”

“Silver, what is going on?” Mortar asked, confused. His eyes darted from Silver to the princesses.

“M—Mortar,” Silver said in a soft voice, “I brought them here because if you do not believe me, then at least you can believe them. Mortar, I truly care for you, and I swear that I never meant to hurt you.”

“Silver—”

“Mortar,” Silver interrupted, “there is no easy way to say this, so I am going to be blunt. Mortar, I am Chrysalis, former queen of the changelings. I have always been Chrysalis. When you first met Silver Skip, that was me.”

Mortar’s eyes widened. His breathing became erratic as his heart began to pound faster.

“W—what?”

“Mortar, please don’t hate me. I really do love you!” Silver cried out, tears flowing from her eyes. “I want to be with you. I don’t care about power or anything else—I care about you! I want to be with you.”

“H—how?” Mortar gasped as he looked straight into Silver’s teary emerald eyes. “How is all this possible?”

“I think my sister and I can explain all of this,” Celestia answered softly as she stood next to Silver. Luna followed suit, standing on the opposite side. “I assure you, my little pony, there is nothing to worry about,” Celestia said with a calm and gentle face.

Mortar leaned up slightly on his bed, his eyes wide. “W—wow, just wow. So you really are Chrysalis.”

Silver looked away, turning her back towards Mortar. “I was, but I am not anymore. I am done with that.”

“And you made her a pony?” Mortar asked as he looked at Princess Celestia and Luna.

“Yes and no, my little pony,” Celestia replied as she stood next to Mortar. “It is complicated, somewhat. But the first changeling was a pony who used dark magic to gain power. She passed on that dark magic to her descendants. All my sister and I did was remove the magic, restoring her back to her original form.”

“T—this is a lot to take in,” Mortar said quietly. “And there is no bad blood between you?”

“No, Mortar,” Silver replied, turning her head slightly to look at him, “there is none. I don’t want to fight anymore; I just want a life with you. If it makes you feel better, we consider each other friends.”

“Indeed, we do,” Luna replied as she stood next to her sister. “Mortar, it is not our place to tell you what to do. But ponies can change. I, too, have made grave mistakes in the past, but that does not mean I cannot move forward. My sister and I have forgiven each other and moved on. Do you trust me as one of your princesses, even though back in my younger days I tried to bring eternal night?”

“I—I do, Your Highness,” Mortar answered as he looked at Luna. “I was scared at first, but as time went on, I trusted you, just like the rest of Equestria does.”

Luna smiled at his comment. “Redemption is possible, my loyal subject.”

Mortar turned his head back towards Silver, “S—so you really had to choose between power and me?”

Silver let out a loud sniff. She instantly turned towards Mortar, her eyes filled with tears. “Mortar, I am so sorry!” she said between sobs. She moved closer to the bed, choking up. “I never wanted to hurt you, let alone do such a horrible thing! Mortar, I swear to you that I never wanted to kill you, not even for all the power in the world. I wanted to be with you. You made me happy. I am sorry I didn’t realize it sooner! I was confused when we first met. I thought it was weakness to have a relationship, to open oneself to another being. But I was so wrong!”

Silver continued to cry, more tears flowing down her face. “Mortar, I am sorry. Can you forgive me?”

Mortar stared at her, his eyes widening. This is the queen of the changelings, the enemy of Canterlot? I mean, the Princesses told me she is Silver Skip. But could this really be Chrysalis? Could this really be Silver Skip? Silver rarely ever showed her emotions, except anger.

He continued to look at Silver, who was beginning to hyperventilate. Does it matter if she is Chrysalis? The time I spent with her was real. It meant something. Does it change anything knowing who she really is? I mean, she is still a pony, after all. She still makes me happy.

But why am I not freaking out? I knew she was different from normal ponies. She looks slightly different, but that is because she is skinnier than most. But I felt something was different. Was that why I was attracted to her—because she was different?

Are the painkillers the reason I am not panicking? Well, I am glad that I am handling it okay.

Still, she is really upset at this. Is she that scared of losing me? I never thought somepony would care so much about me. It does not matter who she is. I love her, and she loves me. What is life without risk?

“Silver,” Mortar said softly.

Silver continued to cry, breathing hard between sobs, and her body was shaking. “I am sorry,” she said over and over again.

“Silver,” he repeated more loudly. Silver continued to cry, unaware. Mortar sighed loudly. Wow she is hysterical. I better do something.

Adjusting his position on the bed, Mortar leaned over and gently grabbed Silver’s head in his hooves. She looked at him, her emerald eyes red from crying. Quickly, he stuck out his tongue and licked her face.

Silver eyes widened as her crying stopped. She stared at Mortar, unable to react.

“It is all right, Silver,” Mortar said as he stroked her mane. “I forgive you. Even knowing your past, I still love and trust you. So please, stop crying.”

“Really?” Silver asked as she calmed down. “You still love me, even after what I have done?”

“Yes,” he replied, embracing her in a deep hug. “It is all right. I love you with all my heart and soul. So calm down—I don’t like seeing you all worked up like this. It is not like you, not at all like my Silver.”

Silver let out a sniff, hugging back. “Thank you, Mortar, thank you.”

Luna wiped an eye with her wingtip. “Isn’t it just so romantic, Sister? True love knows no bounds.”

Celestia smiled, looking down at her sister. “Indeed, it is.”

Silver closed her eyes and smiled, enjoying Mortar’s comfort and warmth. It was as if a huge burden had been lifted from her back. No longer did she have to worry about her past.

Suddenly, her eyes shot open. Quickly, she pushed Mortar back slightly and stared at him. “Did you just lick me?” she asked in an annoyed tone.

Mortar gasped slightly from the sudden movement, looking at Silver. “Well, yes. Yes, I did. I thought it would get your attention. You were panicking, so I thought it would help relieve the tension.”

Silver’s eyes widened. She brushed her face with her forehooves. “That is disgusting, Mortar! You used your tongue!” she shrieked.

Mortar grinned. “Well, well, well. You were not complaining about my tongue when we first kissed,” he replied in a sly tone as he waggled his eyebrows.

Silver’s jaw dropped, a blush growing on her face. Her eyes darted towards Celestia and Luna, each of whom covered her mouth with a hoof to hide a giggle.

“H—how could you say that, in front of them!” she yelled at him, her face reddening even more.

“Well, if that’s a problem, we can show them instead,” he replied with a smirk. Silver’s blush only grew, her eyes darting back and forth between the princesses and Mortar.

Wow, she’s cute when she flustered, Mortar thought. I should remember this.

Silver quickly moved her head forward and bit Mortar’s nose.

“Ow!” Mortar yelled as he grabbed his nose. “I am injured, you know!”

“I’ll injure you even more! How dare you embarrass me like that,” she yelled back.

“C’mon, I am just messing with you,” he replied meekly.

“You will not mess with me,” Silver huffed as she stomped her hoof.

Celestia leaned towards Luna. “I think it is time that we leave them,” she whispered into her sister’s ear.

“I know,” Luna whispered back, “but I can’t move my eyes away. It is just so entertaining and cute to watch them. Is this what they call a lover’s quarrel?”

“Indeed it is, Sister,” Celestia replied, not taking her eyes off Mortar and Silver. After a moment, she cleared her throat. “Well,” she said. Mortar and Silver stopped and stared at Celestia. “My sister and I are happy for you,” the princess continued. “However, I think it is time for us to take our leave. We wish you a speedy recovery, Mortar.”

“And the best of luck to both of you,” Luna added. At that time, both Celestia’s and Luna’s horns glowed. “Oh, I almost forgot,” Luna said. “Do tell us if you are expecting foals; my sister and I love foals. Ta ta, young lovers. May your love blossom forth.”

With a flash of light, Celestia and Luna vanished.

Mortar and Silver stared at the spot where the two princesses had just stood, and then they stared at each other. Both of them started to blush profoundly.

Author's Note

Special thanks to my editors
Spabble
Ponysopher
Letedwend

XVI: Fin

Mortar gasped as sweat covered his face. He looked up at the daunting task ahead of him. His chest heaved as he leaned on the body next to him.

“Come on, Mortar. You’re halfway there,” Silver replied as Mortar leaned on her.

“But...” Mortar wheezed.

“But what?” Silver replied.

“It’s a whole ’nother flight of stairs!” Mortar whined. Giving one last gasp, he fell to his haunches, panting.

Silver smiled gently as she sat next to Mortar. Opening her saddlebag, she grabbed a bottle of water and offered it to him.

“Thank you,” Mortar quickly replied as he grabbed the bottle. Opening it with his teeth, he quickly drank the entire thing. “I really needed that,” he said as his breathing slowed.

“Of course,” Silver replied.

Silver looked over at Mortar and smiled. It had been a couple of months, but Mortar was finally cleared to leave after his rehab. His mane had grown back, and his grey coat hid most of his scars. Although he walked with a limp and looked out of shape, he was healthy. More importantly, he could walk on his own, albeit slowly. It took them the entire afternoon to walk from the hospital to his apartment. He had to stop often for breaks, but he was walking, nonetheless.

Silver continued to smile as she gently leaned on Mortar. Mortar’s ears perked as his tail twitched, a blush growing on his face.

“S-Silver, what are you doing?” Mortar blurted out. He knew Silver loved him, but she rarely showed it in public places. It was only when she knew they were alone that she would open up.

“Resting,” she replied as she closed her eyes. “That, and I am happy that you are finally out of that place. There were always too many ponies around for my liking.”

“Well, I am glad to be out of there, too. The food was getting disgusting.” Mortar chuckled. The two continued to sit there, resting and enjoying each other’s company.

After a couple of minutes, Silver finally got up. Putting her saddlebags back on, she nudged Mortar with a hoof.

“Come on, let’s go. It is getting late. Just one more flight of stairs and we can make it to your apartment,” Silver said.

“Can’t I just sleep here?” Mortar asked, pouting.

“Like I would allow such a thing!” Silver retorted, raising her chin.

Mortar gave out a loud sigh, slowly getting up. Gulping as he looked at the task ahead, he raised his right forehoof.

“Journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, right?”

“Indeed it does, but that does not mean you have to go alone,” Silver added as she smiled at Mortar.

“What would I do without you?” Mortar chuckled.

“Apparently, sleep on a dirty staircase out in the open,” Silver replied, nudging him.

The door slowly opened, and Mortar and Silver walked in.

“Well, sorry ’bout the mess you’re going to see. I obviously have not been here in a while. There is going to be dust everywhere,” Mortar said as he fumbled around for the lightswitch. “Here it is!”

Mortar gasped as the lights flickered on. He expected a dusty and rundown apartment, but instead his apartment looked like it was brand new.

“How did this happen?” Mortar asked as his jaw dropped.

“Oh, that,” Silver replied as she dropped her bags down on a table. “While you were in the hospital, I took care of your place. I did not want to give you work, especially when you came back.”

“But how did you get in? I always lock my apartment when I leave it,” Mortar replied as he looked around. He wiped his hoof on couch and then inspected it.

“It’s simple. I took your keys when nopony was looking and made a copy of them. Once I got a copy, I put the original back,” Silver said as she reached in her backpack and pulled out a key.

“But you stole my keys!” Mortar whined.

“Oh hush,” Silver said nonchalantly as she pushed Mortar towards his bed. “I did not steal them; I just borrowed them, is all. Besides, I cleaned your apartment for you. You should thank me anyways. Now, stop complaining and go to bed—you need your rest.”

“Fine, fine!” Mortar whined as he hobbled to his bed. Carefully getting in, he gave a loud sigh as he leaned back. “Well, I guess I’ll see you tomorrow, right?”

“What?” Silver said as she raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean? I am staying here, of course.”

“What?” Mortar gasped as his eyes widened, sitting up. “Why?”

“Why,” Silver replied put a hoof on Mortar’s chest, gently pushing him back down. “Because you can barely walk up a pair of stairs by yourself. Do you think I am just going to leave you alone? Somepony needs to watch over you and make sure you don’t get hurt again, and that’s me.”

Mortar started to slightly blush. “Oh.”

“Now,” Silver said as she looked around, “I guess I’ll sleep on the couch or something. I will figure it out. Just call me if you need help with something.”

“Or,” Mortar said as his eyes darted around, not looking at Silver.

“Or what?” Silver replied, a confused look on her face.

“You can, you know, share this bed with me,” Mortar said quietly as he looked away, his blush growing.

Silver squinted her eyes, glaring down at him. “Is this your attempt to get me in bed with you?”

Mortar tried to hide by getting smaller, his eyes staring at his hooves. “Maybe?” he said meekly.

She lowered her head, staring directly into Mortar’s eyes. Suddenly, her face softened as she gave a small smile. “Luckily for you, it worked.”

“Really?” Mortar asked, surprised, his eyes widening and his blush continuing to grow.

“Let me just get ready,” she said as she got up, walking towards the bathroom.

Silver turned off the sink as she wiped her face off with a towel. She looked into the mirror. She squinted her eyebrows as she stared at her reflection. She tilted her head, examining all the features on her face.

Guess this is it, Silver thought. This is my life now—to be just an average marefriend, possibly a wife and mother. I cannot turn back; I already burned that bridge. No power, no kingdom, just Mortar and me. But did I make the right choice?

“Silver, are you coming?” Mortar shouted from his room.

Silver shook her head as she blinked her eyes. “Coming!” she shouted back.

Taking one last glimpse in the mirror, she turned around and walked out. As she did, she saw Mortar scoot to the side of the bed. He looked at her, patting the spot next to him. Silver gave a small smile as she lay down next to him, their bodies barely touching. She let out a sigh, closing her eyes and trying to get comfortable.

Mortar looked at Silver. His eyes darted around, his hooves shaking slightly. Gulping, he quickly hugged Silver, her head resting on his chest.

Silver’s eyes quickly shot open, looking up at a blushing Mortar. A blush started to grow on her face.

“I j-just thought it would be more comfortable, you know?” Mortar said nervously.

Silver could feel and hear his heartbeat. She lay there, listening to it for a couple of seconds. A smile grew on her face as she closed on her eyes, her tail intertwining with his.

Who am I kidding? she thought, of course I made the right choice.

And there, she had a blissful sleep.

Dear Celestia and Luna,

Sorry for the informality, but given my past, I do not think I can call either of you Princesses. I mean no disrespect; it is just too awkward for me. In addition, I have a feeling that you enjoy the informality, anyways.

How long has it been now, almost four months since that day when I was brought to Canterlot in chains? I cannot believe how much has transpired since then. It amazes me even now that I am happily living with Mortar Brick as a fellow pony. Mortar is doing great, by the way. He has regained his muscles, and his limp is nowhere near as noticeable as it once was. He’s even started to think about work again, though I warned him that he had better not work in any high places. I will literally nail him to the ground if I have to.

I have no regrets for the choices I made. Every day, it is a joy to wake up knowing that Mortar is right beside me in our bed. I took your suggestion, and starting now I will write letters to you two periodically. Now, even though you suggested it, I bet you are surprised that I actually took you up on your offer. But really, other than Mortar, you two are the closest friends I have.

I am writing this letter to say “thank you.” Believe me, it took a lot of effort just to write this down, but I have to be completely honest with myself. I cannot live in a lie, trying to hide away from the truth. So thank you for going against my wishes and sparing my life. Thank you for giving me not only another chance at life, but also a wonderful life. I cannot imagine a future without Mortar.

At first, I thought I would have to wear a mask for the rest of my time, pretending to like other ponies, pretending that I fit in. But to my surprise, I do not have to do that anymore. I’ve made other friends, ponies that I actually like. While I know there are a few out there who infuriate me, the majority of them are pleasant folk. I am actually enjoying the company of others. Still, though, I will always prefer Mortar’s company to anyone else’s.

We should have some coffee or lunch together sometime. I think you two will be amazed at how Mortar looks now.

Your friend, now and forever,

Silver Skip

Author's Note

Special thanks to my editors
Spabble
Ponysopher
Letedwend

And a huge thanks to Ardial who graciously drew the picture for this story. Please go to his DA page and view his other work!

Details on possibly sequel will be addressed in the comments below.

Author's Notes (Chapter 1-16)

Chapter 1: March to the Scaffold.
March to the Scaffold the 4th movement of the musical piece Symphonie Fantastique by Hector Berlioz is one of my favorite Romantic era pieces of music. I just loved the sound of it and the really prominent brass section. I also think it is hilarious that this piece is considered one of the first famous pieces of music inspired by drugs. However if you read the program notes, it was not a pleasant trip. March to the Scaffold is where he views himself getting executed. Guess that is what opium does to you.

With that said, the first chapter tries to follow the flow and pattern of the music. That is why it sort of jumps from happy to sad moments in the story. I tried visualize the music.

Thanks to Letedwend, Ponysopher, MrMinimii, Reasonandrhyme, benxlabs, and Spabble for helping me edit and proofread.

Chapter 2: Judgement and Defiance
Like the first chapter, I tried to copy the music. The reason why I picked Beethoven's 5th, movement 1, is because the piece is so passionate and emotional. There are parts of the piece that is sad and soft then changes to powerful, angry moments. Considering what Beethoven went through, I can see why he put it in. He hated a lot of things during the time he composed it, he hated his father and he hated the world for his hearing loss. Even with that, he still composed one of the greatest masterpieces of all time.

Thanks to Letedwend, Ponysopher, MrMinimii, Reasonandrhyme, benxlabs, and Spabble for helping me edit and proofread.

Chapter 3: Dream of a Witches' Sabbath
This time I based it off of the 5th movement from Symphonie Fantastique by Hector Berlioz. Like the first chapter I tried to follow the flow of the music. This chapter was supposed to be more creepy and "darker". Hector Berlioz was probably on opium at this point. The program notes are in the link above.

Thanks to Letedwend, Ponysopher, MrMinimii, Reasonandrhyme, benxlabs, and Spabble for helping me edit and proofread.

Chapter 4: Chapter 4 is different than chapters 1-3. First I never thought I would actually be continuing the story at this point. Because of this I never had any music to inspire me. But I wanted to continue the pattern of having a piece of music associted with it. Since this chapter has scene changes and a variety of emotions, I picked Franz Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (orchestral version). That and it is a good way to spread good music. We have all heard this piece sometime in our life as A LOT of cartoons used this. Like Tom and Jerry and Bugs Bunny.

Thanks to Letedwend, Ponysopher, Reasonandrhyme, and Spabble.

Chapter 5: I wanted to add this small chapter for a very specific reason. As we know by now, (in case you do not know please do not read this for spoilers) Chrysalis was changed into a pony against her will. Now I asked myself, "How did Celestia and Luna do that?". The obvious answer is "magic". But to me that is not sufficient enough. I believe that magic in Equestria is governed by some set of laws, just like the laws of physics. There are limitations to what they can do what it. To change a completely different and unique creature into a pony permanently seems unreasonable or extremely difficult to perform. So to explain my thought processes let me give you an analogy,

Say there are two compounds, A and B, which are COMPLETELY different from one another. Now to convert A into B would be impossible or extremely difficult to do in the lab. A lot of energy and steps would be needed if it were possible. Now let us say that instead B is a derivative of A. Changing compound A into B is much, much easier and can easily be done in the lab.

So what that being said, the only reason why Celestia was so able to change Chrysalis into a pony is because the changelings are a derivative of ponies. The first changeling was original a pony who transformed by magic. If magic was able to change a pony into a changeling, then the reveres of that should also be possible.

To me this makes thing more consistent. That is why Discord is a statue and not a pony.

As for the music for this chapter I used Camille Saint-Saens Dance Macabre for the darker undertone.

Thanks to Letedwend, Ponysopher, Reasonandrhyme, and Spabble.

And special thanks to Ponysopher for making this chapter sound older and more poetic.

Chapter 6

The Baroque era! Baroque music is characterized by its complex melodies and heavy use of ornamentation. I tired to mimic that in the story with the complex emotions and actions. For this chapter I used Bach's Unaccompanied Cello Suite No.1 as the music piece. This is the longest chapter I have ever wrote and man was it hard. Takes a lot out of you.