Second chances

Chapters

How not to start negotiations (Twilight)
Dreams reveal all (Twilight)
Meet the old parents (Twilight)
Elements of Harmony (Twilight)
The great Trixster (Twilight)
Crusading (Twilight)
Her name is Flurry Heart (Twilight)
Harvest permission (Chrysalis)
Grand reveal (Chrysalis)
Humanling (Kara)
Price of freedom (Kara)
Pyre light (Twilight)
Pony huntress (Twilight)
Awesome new card game (Kara)
Mother's proposal (Twilight)
Grand Galleons Galloping Gallantly (Kara)

How not to start negotiations (Twilight)

My name is Twilight Sparkle, and I'm a pony. Sixteen years ago, I somehow got turned into a baby and restarted life with no memories or anything. I grew up in a hive of insectoid shape-shifters known as changelings. I'm a hunter, one of the hive's best alongside my two best friends: Jade and Swift. I'm also the mother of the first ever pony/changeling hybrid. Her name is Kara, and she's my everything. A few days after her sixth birthday, she decided to join the hive navy. I had always thought she'd become a hunter like myself, but she has to be able to make her own choices. And to be honest, I should've seen it coming since she enjoyed being on ships, and has always been really into our hive's military history. She's done good for herself as well, and I'm very proud of her.

Enough backstory for now. Today, I'll be headed out to Equestria to try and talk the two princesses into starting up an alliance with my hive. I insisted on going alone as I feared having hivemates would only work against me in the long run, but mother wouldn't have any of it. I'll be taking with me Jade and Swift as guards. They agreed to stay in their pony forms and blend into the background, so there's that at least. I really hoped this wouldn't backfire.

We'll be flying in on a hunter transport. With all of my fellow changelings disguised as ponies, and me as an actual pony, it should get us in with ease. Why not just walk, you ask? It's too damn far! Canterlot is at least a months walk from the hive, and that's if we don't stop for ANYTHING. Flying like a pegasus is out of the question since I'm a unicorn. This boat is all we've got as a conventional means of transport.

The boat itself isn't impressive. It's slightly bigger than one of the navy's troop transports. It's not very spacious, but it'll do. After saying good bye to my mate, Fenrir, and Kara, I boarded and we took off not long after. As I watched the hive get smaller, I realized something: this is really happening. I'll be interacting with other real ponies for the first time in this life... and it kinda scared me a little. Soon, we breached the occlusion barrier and suddenly, the hive just vanished. Onward now to Equestria.

It didn't take long at all to reach our destination. Travel by air boat is very nice. It's how we get to and from our hunting grounds so easily. Anyway, after getting clearance to dock, we did so at the closest dock to the castle. It'd be nice if we could dock at the castle itself, but we don't have the means to get that kind of clearance. Oh well, it's only a few miles walk from here.

Good grief, Canterlot sure is pretty. The hive back home is nice and everything, but this place... just... there's no words to describe it. Everything is made of marble, and it's amazing. As we walk through the streets, I have to try really hard to resist the urge to go in every single store I see. First time I tried, Swift quickly cut me off and reminded me of what I was supposed to be doing. Oh well, maybe later, then.

As soon as we reached the castle, I was blown away. I thought the city looked nice, but this... just... holy crap. First of all, the towards stand on in impossible ways, and I have to question the reality of physics. Other than that, though, everything about this place is mind blowingly beautiful. At the front gate, I'm scanned for some reason. Afterwards, I'm cleared for entry. Not only that, but the guards bowed to me after scanning me... and started to me feel really uneasy. I didn't show it, though, and just walked past.

Jade and Swift weren't so lucky. After I entered the insanely huge entrance hallway, I heard the guards outside call out the word "changeling". Well, shit. I had a feeling this was going to backfire, and I was right. Over the hivemind, I basically begged them to cooperate, and they agreed. As I kept walking, I saw them being escorted towards where I could only imagine is the dungeon. Now, I needed to get this done as quickly as possible so I can get them set free.

"Twilight, is everything alright?" Mother asked.

"Jade and Swift just got caught," I explained, "I told you taking guards would end poorly. I'm gonna try and get these negotiations out of the way quickly so I set them free".

"Good luck, Twilight," Mother said, "And don't worry about Jade and Swift. They are more than capable of handling themselves".

I know that already. I hunt with them, so I know what they're capable of. I just hate that they had to get captured like that.

I reached the throne room before too long, and it was very easy to find. Just follow the red carpet and you'll find royalty. As I entered, I tensed up. I could feel an insane amount of power in the room, pretty obvious who it was coming from, and it terrified me to no end. But I had to be brave, I couldn't show fear. I gathered up every bit of courage I had and pushed forward. Sitting upon the throne was a very tall, white unicorn decked out in gold regalia. I could only assume this unicorn was princess Celestia. As soon as her eyes fell upon me, she literally leapt from her throne and flew over to me. Right, the princesses are alicorns... gotta remember that. After reaching me, she pulled me into a tight embrace.

"It's so good to see you again, Twilight," She said as her wings wrapped around me.

"Good to see you too, Princess," I said, "It's been way too long".

"Indeed it has," She said, letting me go slightly, "Where have you been?"

"Long story, and I'd rather not talk about it in public like this," I said.

She nodded and then turned and halted whatever it was she was in the middle of. As soon as everyone was gone, and the room was empty again safe for a few guards, she walked back over. However, she stopped short and got a really serious look on her face that made me want to crawl into a small hole and stay there for a very long time.

"Twilight, what happened to your wings?" She asked.

Wings? Hold up, I'm supposed to have wings!? Oh dear...

"Mother, we have a big problem here," I said.

"What's happened?" Mother asked, worried.

"I'm supposed to be an alicorn," I explained.

Silence... scary, scary silence.

The princess's voice brought me back to Equestria.

"I'm only going to ask you one more time," The princess growled, "Who are you, and what have you done with Twilight?"

I could faintly hear mother saying something, but couldn't make out what it was. I was terrified. Things had gone from good to bad to really bad. I had to give an answer, and quick, so I gave the only answer I could. Oh well, she was about to find out anyway.

"I am the real Twilight," Was all I could say before the princess's horn flared up. I blacked out within seconds.

Author's Note

Doesn't look too promising for Twi right now, but I'm sure she'll find a way out of this bad situation. How will she do it, though? Check back in the next chapter to find out.

And in case you're curious, green text indicates communication via the hivemind. I felt it best to color code that so it doesn't get confused with regular, verbal communication.

Dreams reveal all (Twilight)

I awoke with a headache. I hate headaches, I got enough when Kara was younger. I held my throbbing head for a few minutes before deciding to look around and see where I'm at. I saw gray... tons of gray. I turned and little more to see bars. Only one logical explanation for those... I'm in prison. No doubt locked up for supposedly impersonating myself.

"Twilight, are you there?" Asked a voice inside my head.

"Yes, I'm here," I said.

"Oh, thank goodness, I've been trying to get a hold of for two hours," The voice said, "What's going on?"

After my remaining senses came back, I recognized the voice as that of mother.

"Well, I'm currently locked up in a dungeon cell," I explained.

"I had a feeling that was the case," Mother said, "Fear not, you'll be coming home soon".

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"When I couldn't get a hold of you for about ten minutes, I sent out a rescue," Mother explained, "They'll be there shortly to help you out".

Oh dear...

"Call them back,," I said, "I want to start talking about an alliance with the princesses, but I won't be able to do that if I get broken out of here and taken back to the hive. Please, call off the rescue".

Silence. I hate silence over the hivemind, it's always so unnerving. It didn't last too long, however... thankfully.

"I hope you know what you're doing, Twilight," Mother said, confirming wordlessly that she did call off the rescue.

"I'll let you know if I need that rescue," I said, "But, unless I ask for it, please don't send one".

Closing my eyes always helped with hivemind communication. When I opened my eyes again, I noticed a tall blue alicorn sitting just outside my cell.

"You are finally awake," She said.

"And have been for a short while," I pointed out.

"I am very confused about something, and I hope you can explain it to me," The blue alicorn said.

"Ask away," I said.

"You are a pony, yet I can not see into your dreams," She said, "I want to know why that is".

"Mother?" I asked.

"Yes, Twilight?" Mother asked.

"Can you remotely sever one from the hivemind?" I asked.

"Yes, I can, but why?" Mother asked.

"I have a feeling being severed for a little while will help me out," I explained, "I have no time to properly explain, so please just do it".

"I really hope you know what you're doing," Mother said.

Shortly after, I felt a sharp, stabbing pain in my forehead. I cried out and clung to my forehead tightly for a brief moment as the pain subsided.

"What did you just do?" The blue alicorn asked.

"I'll explain in a bit," I said, "For now, I need you to put me to sleep. You want to see into my dreams? You should be able to now".

I hoped that being connected to the hivemind was the problem. It doesn't allow external communication except verbal, and I hoped dreams were included in that. The blue alicorn did as requested, and I soon fell into a slumber. Within mere moments, I was dreaming, but my dream faded away after a bit, leaving me alone in a vast, empty space. I turned to face behind me, and came face to face with the blue alicorn herself.

"So, you really are Twilight," She said.

"Yes, I am," I said, "I don't know why I am not an alicorn, but I have a feeling it has something to do with me being basically reborn sixteen, almost seventeen, years ago".

"What do you mean?" The alicorn asked.

"I'll explain further, but not here," I said, "I want to speak with Princess Celestia. I want to give her the explanation she needs, but I don't want to repeat myself to her".

"My sister is currently in an unstable state, and it would be unwise to proceed with that course of action," She explained.

"Well, you won't get anything else out of me till I can talk to her," I said.

"Very well, but don't say I didn't warn you," She said before her horn lit up and we were taken back to the waking world of the living.

She then proceeded to open the cell door and let me walk out. After I said my thanks, she led me straight towards Princess Celestia's room. I could feel the alicorn's raging power from down the hall, and it terrified me. You didn't have to be a changeling to know I'd pissed her off. As we entered, the blue alicorn, who I learned is known as Luna, told me to stay behind her. I did.

"Hello Luna," Princess Celestia said as we walked in, "What's up?"

"Please, don't be mad sister," Princess Luna said as she stepped to the side, "I brought her here because she wants to explain something to you. And yes, I can confirm that this IS the real Twilight Sparkle".

"How do I know you're not under some spell?" Princess Celestia asked.

"Look at the ring placed upon the base of her horn," Princess Luna said, pointing to said ring, "Only the one who puts the ring in place can remove it without killing the wearer".

"True," Princess Celestia said, sighing, "Very well, then. Explain what is going on".

Over the next thirty minutes, I tell her basically my whole life story. She obviously doesn't like that part about me being raised by Queen Chrysalis, but it seemed to satisfy her. I could tell she was satisfied because she proceeded to remove the inhibitor ring from my horn after I finished.

"And that brings me to why I'm here," I said, "I want to strike up an alliance between my hive and Equestria".

"Such an alliance could benefit us greatly, sister," Princess Luna said, "And it would seem Chrysalis has changed as well, so perhaps it's even possible".

"Mother invaded seventeen years ago because she feared rejection," I explained, "Our hive was starving, and she was desperate. Now, I'm here to try and fix that mistake".

"I vote we give them a chance," Princess Luna said.

"Then I will too," Princess Celestia said, "However, I wish to speak with Chrysalis myself. She may bring a few guards if she desires. However, do also inform her that, should she come, I will require her to wear an inhibitor for security sake".

"I'm sure she'll understand," I said confidently.

"So, now that that's out of the way, mind explaining what happened earlier to allow me access to your dream?" Princess Luna asked.

"I asked mother to cut me off from the hivemind for a little while," I explained, "The hivemind prevents any external, non verbal communication. Being cut off allowed you to have that access".

"Well, that is most interesting," Princess Luna said.

"And it feels really weird and scary," I pointed out, "So I'll be getting reconnected when I go back to inform mother of your request for her presence and rules for the discussions".

"Then I suppose you will want to leave as soon as possible," Princess Luna said.

"As soon as my friends are freed," I said, "Their only crime is being changelings, they've done nothing wrong, so I would like them to be set free. They're the same two that got discovered shortly before that misunderstanding in the throne room".

"I suppose that's fair," Princess Luna said, "And let it also be a sign of good intentions on our part".

That went WAY better than expected. We went down to the dungeon, and I kept looking around for possible traps. There were none, though. Jade and Swift were set free, and the inhibitors were safely removed from their horns. It was too good to be true, really. Perhaps they did all this because of who I am. I mean... I AM supposed to be a princess.

Anyway, before we left, Princess Celestia gave me two sheets of paper. Docking vouchers for the royal docks at the castle. One for mother, the other for me and anyone I choose to travel with. I'll be coming back for sure, and I'm bringing everybody. Kara's gonna love this place.

Author's Note

And Twilight is freed by the power of dreams. Next chapter starts the adventures you've all been waiting for.

Meet the old parents (Twilight)

So, it's been a couple of days since I got back. Upon arrival, I was greeted by my overly excited daughter. When she heard I'd gotten into a pickle, she was the first to sign up for the rescue. When I finally got around to telling her about the trip we'll be taking, she didn't like it at first. She didn't much like the ponies, but I managed to talk her into giving them a chance.

So, we're back in Canterlot, waiting outside outside the house the princesses said belongs to my pony parents. I knocked on the door and stepped back. After few moments later, the door opened to reveal a dark blue stallion with a gray mane and tail. The wrinkles on his face said he was old for sure. He even sounded like an old guy.

"Who's there?" Hey asked as he adjusted his glasses.

"It's me, um... dad," I said, "It's Twilight".

"Twily? Is... is that really... really you?" He asked.

"Yes, it's really me," I assured.

"I never thought I'd see you again," he said, inching close for a hug, "I never thought I'd see you again".

"Can I come in?" I asked.

"Yes, of course," He said, "You and your friends are always welcome in here whenever".

We all walked inside behind the old stallion. The house wasn't that bad, you could tell they still cared about it. Before too long, we reached what I assumed was the great hall of the house. It was nice and spacious, there was some nice furniture here and there. We were invited to sit where we desired while the stallion went to go get someone else. We all took a seat where we each felt most comfortable. I took the nice, leather recliner. We all waited ever so patiently until the stallion came back with an old gray mare with a white and very light purple mane and tail came out. She walked over and gave me a hug before taking her own seat.

"When we first heard you could not be found a year after going missing, I never thought I would ever see you again," The mare said, "Then, a couple of days ago, Princess Celestia came and said you'd finally come back. Only thing is, she said you've been living with changelings since you left all those years ago. Please, tell me that's not true".

"What's wrong with changelings?" Kara asked.

Oh boy, here we go...

"They're monsters, child," The mare said.

"They're not monsters, you racist old hag!" Kara called out.

"Kara, quiet!" I half growled, "Show some respect. If the princess's word is anything to go on, these ponies are technically your grandparents by blood".

"But she-" Kara said before I cut her off.

"Is obviously set in her old ways, like most elders are," I explained, "Now, either apologize and show some respect, or go into another room".

I love Kara to death, I really do, but that attitude of hers is one thing I wish I could change. I honestly don't know how she survived training for the hive Navy with her attitude intact.

"Sorry... about that," Kara said, albeit obviously reluctantly.

"Accepted," The old mare said before turning back to me, "So, I guess it's safe to assume it's true?"

"Yes, it is," I admitted, "Sixteen years ago, I didn't just go missing, I got turned into a baby and restarted life. Queen Chrysalis, my mother this time around, took me in and raised me among the other changelings. After sixteen years of living among them, I can safely say that changelings aren't the monsters ponies have made them out to be ever since the invasion I heard about. The hive was starving at the time, and mother got desperate. She would've tried diplomacy if she didn't fear rejection. To her, the risks outweighed the reward in that case. The truth is, though, she didn't want to rule Equestria, she was just a loving mother trying to feed her children".

"Or so she's told you," The old mare said.

All it took was one stern glare to keep Kara's obvious retort at bay.

"She wanted to kill me back then, you know," I said, "And she very easily could have. I was but a defenseless baby, she could've killed me with no effort at all. But she didn't. Instead, she took me in and raised me. That alone should say something about her".

"Well, it does show she has the means to show compassion and set aside old grudges," The stallion said.

"When did you find out you were a pony?" The mare asked.

"Six years ago, when I got pregnant with Kara," I explained, "Only changeling queens are capable of getting pregnant, so I knew something was wrong. I confronted mother about it, and she finally told me the truth".

"So, then this child here," The mare said, pointing to Kara, "Is actually you're biological daughter?"

"She is, yes," I admitted.

"But that means..." The old mare said before going into a trance like state.

"Yes, it means you're now related to monsters," I said.

Is it bad that I wanted to cackle like an evil madmare after saying that? Anyway, the rest of the visit went relatively smooth. Fenrir, Jade, and Swift were eventually allowed to drop their disguises. My old pony parents freaked out at first, but got over it eventually. After all, this is but hardly a drop in the bucket compared to their extended family of over ten thousand back at the hive. They'll have to get used to it some time, so we all figured now would be the best time to start. Kara's attitude stayed basically the same. I had a good talk with her about it, but it didn't do me any good. I really hope that'll change soon.

Tomorrow, we'll be traveling down to Ponyville. According to the princesses, that's where my old pony friends live. Princess Celestia said she'd send a letter to Spike, who is a dragon if I heard right, with instructions to meet up in the throne room of what used to be my castle back when I was an alicorn. I wish I could have a castle now, it'd be super awesome.

Author's Note

So, Twilight finally met her biological parents.

So, about Kara's character. I picture her as being hot headed and impulsive. Like I explained back at the end of My Little Twilight, the Nordic meaning of Kara is "The wild one", and I feel a hot headed/impulsive nature is kind of required to fit into that description. She is also proud of her heritage... well, the changeling side of it anyway.

Despite her hot headed nature, she can also be very sweet if you get to know her. She's also very protective. If she likes you, she'll give you a shoulder to cry on, then later hunt down those that hurt you.

I do hope you guys can come to like Kara as the story goes on. I'm going to do everything I can to flesh out her character is best I can.

Elements of Harmony (Twilight)

So, the night was interesting. Fenrir and I slept in the guest room, Kara slept in the room I supposedly used the first time I was a filly, and Jade and Swift opted to sleep on the ceiling. Yes, changelings can cling to such surfaces, and even sleep like that. It doesn't matter how often I've been exposed to it over my life, it still creeps me out. However creepy it is for me, it's even more so for my old pony parents. The old mare woke up the entire house, and probably the neighbors, when she walked in to Jade and Swift sleeping on the ceiling of the great hall (I believe they said it's called a living room... strange name in my opinion). Is it bad that I laughed when I found out why she screamed?

While walking through Canterlot, I got a glimspe of just how judgmental these high class ponies can be. It seemed like every one of them were either casting strange looks our way, or were making some kind of ugly comment about Kara. Yes, she's different, but so what? She wanted so badly to stand up for herself, but I kept telling her that to keep to oneself is the better option here. There's only so much I can take, though. Not long before the train station, there was one couple that made me snap. "Honey, look over there at the freak," Is probably one of the best ways to piss me off. It was obvious they were talking about Kara because the stallion was pointing right at her. I even let Kara join me with that attitude of hers. Oh, and the guards were called as well... Made me wish the princesses were with us like yesterday when we walked to my old parents' house. Nobody would dare say a thing about Kara if they knew the princesses were listening.

The train ride was relatively uneventful. Our little group took our seats in the back where nobody else was. I wasn't about to listen to ponies talking bad about Kara the whole ride. When we got off the train, the first place we went was the big crystal tree castle on the other side of town. Hard to believe I used to live in a place this nice. We had to split up to find the throne room, and even then, it took us about an hour. Once inside, I came face to face with the ponies who are apparently good friends of mine. Oh, and let's not forget Spike, the wingless dragon.

As it turns out, my old parents weren't the only ones informed of how I'd spent the last sixteen years of my life. Regardless of that knowledge, these ponies and dragon were still willing to be suppotive. Like my old parents, they don't like changelings (Though, I can't say I blame them), but they're not willing to let that get in the way of our friendship. The old me was really lucky to have friends like them.

Oh, and I think I figured out what happened all those years ago. Apparently I had talked someone named Zecora into letting me run some tests on an artifact known as the "Alicorn amulet". According to my notes from those tests, I had once believed it possible to harness the amulet's power and put it to good use elsewhere. The last thing I wrote was a letter to whoever found the research, saying something had gone terribly wrong and to tell my parents I love them, and behind that was a quickly scribbled apology letter to princess Celestia. Apparently Spike found the research, but didn't have any idea about it being even slightly connected to my disappearance (Don't ask me why, it's his head, not mine). The only mystery now is how I ended up outside the hive in a basket... though I may never solve that one.

I burned the research. Didn't want anyone getting any ideas. When I asked Spike what happened to the amulet, he said the princesses had it. That's good, I guess. You'd have to be dumber than the dumbest idiot to try and take from them.

After that was all taken care of, we all went to a sweets shop known as Sugarcube Corner. The food there is amazing. And milkshakes are something I'm going to be introducing to the hive when I get the chance. I bet they'd even better with some love energy mixed in. No, I don't need love energy, but I do prefer it as a taste enhancer. I actually asked if they could add some for me... and immediately felt like an idiot afterwards... well, nobody ever said I was the brightest one out there.

After Sugarcube corner, Swift challenged the rainbow maned pegasus, who literally has Rainbow as her first name by the way, to a race. Being the fastest thing on land, she claimed she could outRUN the pegasus who claimed to be the fastest flyer in Equestria. At first, it seemed like an odd racing style, and the pegasus turned it down at first. Then Swift asked if she was afraid of losing a flying race to someone who'll run on the ground the whole race. Soon after, both were at the starting line just outside Sugarcube Corner. The finish line was at the castle. I waited at the castle with Kara and Spike while the others waited at the starting line. The whole race took about fifteen seconds, give or take a few microseconds, and Swift won. We don't call her Swift for no reason. And no, she didn't teleport, either. She actually just straight up ran the whole way. The rainbow pegasus claimed to have gone easy on Swift, but nobody actually bought it.

When asked how she can run so damn fast, she explained how she would run with weights strapped to her legs. She will run a mile and a half like that every day. It wore her out at first, and she had been taken to the infirmary I don't even know how many times, but she'd go right back and do it again the next day. They tried everything to keep her from doing that, but nothing ever worked. She's always been determined to leave behind the legacy of being the fastest thing to ever walk on land. After today's performance, I'd say that's not outside the bounds of reality.

That was the last thing we really did. The rest of the day was spent setting up rooms in the castle for me and my hivemates. Pretty eventful day I'd say, and worth the trip down here. I wonder what the rest of this trip will be like.

Author's Note

Ok, so little fun fact about this chapter. After I finished writing about the research on the Alicorn amulet, I saved and went to go get something to eat. When I came back, I saw the chapter had 666 words. Yea... make of that what you will.

So, how did Swift outrun the fastest flyer in Equestria? After all, we've seen Rainbow take off like a rocket on super steroids. Surely she'd have reached the castle first since she could just fly in a straight line... right? Here's the thing: Yes, she's fast as Hell, but she's also lazy as Hell and cocky as Hell. Swift is fast as Hell, but not lazy or cocky. Not only that, but she trains every day. Honestly, how often do we catch Rainbow training compared to how often she's seen sleeping the day away on clouds? Oh, and she's also sixteen years older than she currently would be on the show, and I feel that would also hold her back a bit. Besides, why does Rainbow have to be the only one who can take off like a bullet? Besides, I wanted to have Rainbow lose a race for once.

The great Trixster (Twilight)

I'll never get used to waking up in a castle, especially when it's difficult for me to find my way around said castle. Fate being ever so cruel... I wasn't able to find the bathroom until AFTER I'd already had an accident... and Kara won't let me live it down. I tried to hold it, I swear.

Anyway, after breakfast, the others and I went towards the edge of Ponyville. My old friends said they wanted to have a picnic. Of course I said yes, cause who turns down a good picnic? On our way over, we met a light blue unicorn wearing a strange hat and cape. Apparently I used to know this unicorn because she seemed to know me.

"I don't want to come off as rude, but... do I know you?" I asked, "I don't have any memories past sixteen years ago, so please don't get upset".

"Why, you honestly don't remember the great and powerful Trixie, your favorite mentor?" She asked, "Well, no matter. If you have a moment Trixie will gladly help restore your memory".

I didn't want to pass that up. If this Trixie really could help, I was willing to let her. She'd shot some kind of green beam into my forehead, and all these images and scenes started popping up. Little did I know, they were fake. I even believed her about being my mentor.

"I really lived a life THAT luxurious?" I asked as images of a grand marble mansion popped up.

"Yes, you did," The unicorn said, "Oh, those were the good ol' days. Then you had to grow up and become a princess. Speaking of which, what happened to your wings?"

"I was messing with strange magic and ended up erasing my memories and turning myself into a unicorn foal," I explained.

"Trixie thought she'd taught you better than that," She said semi scoldingly

"I guess I'd thought I could handle it since I was an alicorn," I said, laying my ears down.

"Well, you're still alive, so there's that," She said, "So, other than that, how's life?"

"It's been alright," I said, "Say, do you remember the changelings?"

"You mean those bugs that attacked Canterlot a long time ago?" She asked, "Trixie does remember them. Why do you ask?"

"I've been living with them for these sixteen years," I explained, "They raised me the whole time. It's been fun, though".

"You're kidding, right?" She asked.

"No, I'm actually not," I admitted, "And they're not as bad as they're made out to be".

She seemed disgusted by that, and it made me feel a tad ashamed for some reason. She still hung round, though. We talked on the way to the picnic about all kinds of things. When we arrived, everybody was shocked. When I inquired about why, they explained who Trixie really was and what she'd done in the past. I couldn't believe that I'd spent a good hour or so with a tyrannical slaver. Not only that, but she proved their point by revealing that it was a trick to make her feel superior to me. She'd laughed and kept claiming how funny it was that I'd believed her. But I could at least take that.

When she found out about Kara... I wanted to kill her. I thought the ponies in Canterlot were bad with their insults, but they were nothing compared to this one mare. All I had to say was "You're forgiven," And Kara went crazy. She even turned the unicorn into a bunny at one point (She's incredibly talented in the use of magic for her age), then stuffed her into the weird pointed hat and then pulled her out by ears. It's something stage magicians do back at the hive to signal the end of their show. I couldn't help but laugh.

When Kara finally turned her back into a unicorn, she was not happy at all. She brought it on herself, though. She tried to turn Kara into an orange as well afterwards. But, her plan was foiled by a simple deflection spell. So, there she sat, a talking orange that wouldn't shut up. When Kara turned her back again, she swore to get revenge and stormed off. I wonder if she'll actually follow through on that. Even if she tries, I'm not worried.

The rest of the day was calm, but fun. I heard tons of stories about the adventures I went on seventeen+ years ago. It sounded like I had a good life back then. After the talking, we played a few games like frisbee... and Rainbow Dash ended that by throwing a little too hard in the direction of a place called the Everfree Forest. It's apparently a place filled with all kinds of nasty creatures, and the ponies were too scared to go in unless absolutely necessary. Maybe I'll explore it later on. Tomorrow, perhaps. I'll figure something out. Oh, and the fake memories? They're only temporary. I won't have them tomorrow, thank goodness.

And there's also this human world on the other side of some mirror apparently. It also sounds interesting enough for a visit. I wonder a human even looks like...

Author's Note

And here, we have a Trixie chapter just in time for Trixie's return to the show.

What kind of magic can give a pony fake memories? Black magic. Trixie was willing to use the Alicorn amulet, so why not forbidden black magic?

Also, I'll eventually be making a chapter where Twilight and her hivemates go to CHS, so be on the lookout for that. Yes, Sunset and the CHS main 6 will be included.

Crusading (Twilight)

Today, we met a band of mares who call themselves the "Cutie Mark Crusaders". They're an interesting trio of mares who work all over Equestria to help young fillies and colts get their cutie marks, and adults figure out the real meaning behind their cutie marks and what is their real special talent. Quite an interesting band of mares if I do say so myself. One is a Earth pony who helps out at an apple orchard called "Sweet Apple Acres" when she's not on a mission. Then, there's a unicorn who helps out Rarity, the annoying fashion unicorn from my old band of friends, when she's able. The last is a flightless pegasus (Yea, they exist) who performs at stunt shows when not on a mission. They kind of remind me of myself, Jade, and Swift. Anyway, after meeting up with them, they decided to make it their personal mission to help Kara get a cutie mark. I don't even know if she CAN, she might have too much changeling blood in her, but hey... at least she's making friends now. They even invited me along. Sounds like fun, so I said yes.

The first thing Kara wanted to try was more suited for her job as a naval weapons specialist. That took some explaining because, apparently, ponies can't join the royal or nocturnal guard until they turn eighteen. Even I wouldn't be old enough, and I'm the leader of a hunting party. Whatever, just some crazy rules that I don't understand. Anyway, we were denied access to any military anything thanks to the princess. I guess I can't really blame them, though... I mean, we ARE from a changeling hive. Though they are willing to give peace a chance, that doesn't mean they'll just up and give us access to their military goodness. Kara was very disappointed when we got denied access to even the most basic of Equestrian warships, but she'll get over it. If these peace talks go well enough, I might be able to get us a tour of one or two in the future, but she'll just have to wait for that.

Anyway, the next thing we tried was baking... yea, that's the first idea that popped into the heads of the crusaders. Anyway, we gave it shot, and it didn't end too well. I'm a hunter, not a baker, and I ended up setting the kitchen ablaze while trying to make cupcakes. Thank goodness for firefighting one oh one in navy training. Kara was able to kill the flames before any serious damage was caused. I'm also stuck with a two hundred bit repair bill... yea, I don't have that kind of money (Our hive doesn't use Equestrian bits, and the princesses aren't THAT generous). Oops...

Anyway, after that, we tried something that didn't involve fire, and was more fun, not to mention more suited for Kara. We went to an enormous lake and tried out all kinds of water based sports. Apparently, ponies have invented a way to ski on the surface of water. Very impressive since normally we'd just sink in. Kara's pretty good at water skiing. She can't do advanced tricks, but she still knows how to put on a proper show... by ending it with splashing the viewers. I'm going to get her back for that.

After having our fun in the sun, we decided to try one last thing: dancing. It's a secret hobby of The Earth pony, Apple Bloom is her name, I believe. Anyway, neither I nor Kara can dance worth a damn. I may have the agility of a hunter, but that doesn't mean much in this case. And poor Kara... she dances like a goofball. Her dancing is the kind that makes others keep their distance. Oh well, at least I have something to use when she calls me a baby again for my accident a week ago (She's been almost relentless).

Anyway, after that disaster, we headed back to Ponyville. It was a pretty interesting week. Kara still doesn't have a cutie mark, but that doesn't matter. Many photos were taken, I have a video of Kara's terrible dancing, and Kara even made three good friends. Back at my castle, we were greeted with the smell of something new. It smelled really tasty. The crusader trio gagged at the smell because they don't like meat. I don't know why these ponies don't at least give meat a try, it's not bad. Anyway, we followed the smell all the way to the kitchen, and were rewarded with a meal of epicness. In my absence, it seems Jade and Swift decided to hunt a manticore. I was saddened by them not waiting for me, but it's not the end of the world. Besides, manticore steak is the best taste I've ever had the pleasure of trying, and it makes me want to forgive them... at least a little. I offered a small piece to the crusaders, but they refused it. More for me.

Near the end of the day, Spike burped up a letter (Yes, you read that right) from Princess Celestia. According to the letter, I should expect a visit in the next couple of days from my older brother. I'd be a little more excited if it wasn't HIS wedding mother almost completely ruined. He's been informed of the presence of my hivemates, and has ordered not to bring any of them to harm. I hope he's a really good soldier, otherwise, there might be an issue or two... and I really don't want that. I'm not interested in sorting out a political mess. Anyway, that's future Twilight's problem. Right now, my only problem is not falling asleep fast enough. I'm literally so tired that I can't sleep... and I never thought that could be possible.

Also, I need a job here. I need to be able to get two hundred bits by the end of next month. I swear, Equestria just seems to hate me for whatever reason. Is it because I'm bringing changelings here or something? If it is, then fuck you, Equestria.

Author's Note

Next time, Shining Armor, Cadance, and even Flurry Heart make an entrance to the story. Just how bad will the meeting go? How will Shining Armor react to being around changelings? Will Cadance play nice with the very species that abducted and tried to use her? What does Flurry Heart have to do with all this? All will be revealed on the next episode of Dragon Ball Z... er, um *cough, cough* I mean, in the next chapter.

Her name is Flurry Heart (Twilight)

So, today is the day my old brother comes to visit. I'm not really looking forward to it, but I suppose it's best to just get it out of the way and move on. I just hope Kara keeps a check on her attitude, because I don't think he's going to be too kind. After what happened to him and Princess Cadance, I can't blame him, but still... I don't foresee this going well.

The morning went well, at least. For breakfast, we had honey covered bacon, which is my favorite breakfast item. There's no way you can beat it. Gotta say, that little dragon is a really good cook. The strange part, though, is he turned down even the regular bacon. And here I thought dragons were carnivores as well... well, I guess I can't be right all the time.

And how about the long awaited first update on the peace talks up in Canterlot? They're going pretty good, it seems. Princess Celestia has already allowed some of our harvesters to come and gather up as much love energy as they can carry. It doesn't do any kind of harm to the ponies being harvested, after all, so they figured it would be alright. That said, our harvesters can't just do it in secret, and they can't harvest just anybody they want. The pony in question has to give consent on the matter. Again, there's no harm being done to the ponies, so I don't see why they even have to know it's happening, but whatever... progress is still progress.

Anyway, it was about noon when my old brother came knocking. Fenrir, Kara, and I braced ourselves for what was coming. Jade and Swift were standing by the door, ready to jump just in case things went really south. I highly doubted it would come to blows since Princess Celestia said that she basically made it an order that no harm is to come to any of my hivemates, but one can never be too careful! As he enters, the first thing I notice is just how handsome and sexy he looks in that armor of his. I know we're related by blood and everything, but damn. If you mention that to Fenrir, I'll cut off your legs and beat you to death with them before hanging you from a tree by your intestines.

Anyway, he wasn't the only the come. Beside him was Princess Cadance, and behind him was the mare who I could only assume was my niece... though her name currently eludes me. I think it's Snowfall Blizzard or something of that nature. Not important right now, though.

"Hello, Twily," He said as he sat down.

Twily? Cute name, but blegh.

"I guess you're my brother, right?" I asked

"I am, yea," He said, nodding, "I guess it's true that you really have no memories, isn't it?"

"It is," I said, "Anyway, let's start off by introducing everybody here".

"My name is Fenrir, and I'm Twilight's mate," Fenrir explained, "Like her, I'm also a hunter for the hive".

"I'm Cadance, and though you don't remember me, I was once your foalsitter," Princess Cadance explained, "Those were the fun day back then, I wish they could come back sometimes".

The next to introduce themselves was... good grief, what was her name? Eh, I'll just go with Snowfall until I can remember.

"My name is Snowfall Blizzard, and I'm your niece," Snowfall said, "I'm also a Sergeant in the royal guard, trained by dad here".

Ok, so I've got not one, but TWO royal guards in the same room as me. Thank goodness we outnumber them.

"I'll go ahead and pass since I've basically introduced myself already," My old brother said.

"Alright, well my name is Kara, and I'm a weapons specialist for my hive's Navy," Kara said, "I'm also the daughter of Twilight and Fenrir".

"And here I thought your name was 'Spoiled Brat'," I said jokingly, earning a death glare from Kara, "Alright, alright, back to being serious. The last two are behind you by the door. The one to the left is Jade, and the other is Swift. They're really good friends of mine, and the other two members of my hunting party".

"Alright, so now that that's out of the way, let's get down to what we came here for," My old brother said, "Or at least, what I came here for. You spent the past sixteen years growing up all over again inside a hive of changelings. I don't really like that fact, but it's something I can't change. Anyway, first question I want to ask is how long did you live thinking you were a changeling?"

Oh, here we go... yep, this won't end well.

"Ten years," I said, "I always knew I wasn't like the others, but I would've never thought myself to be a pony. Then I got pregnant, which is impossible for a drone since only the queen of a hive is fertile".

"Ok, so you've known for six years," My old brother said, "So, why did you never come back to Equestria before now?"

"My hive is my home now, not Equestria," I explained, "Yes, I'm a pony, but that doesn't mean anything. Queen Chrysalis is my mother, even though not by blood. My hivemates are my family. Fenrir was my coltfriend before I found out the truth. I couldn't stomach the thought of just leaving all that behind for a life I don't even have a single memory of".

"I... I guess that makes sense," My old brother said.

"So, what is it like living with changelings?" Snowfall asked.

"There's never a dull moment," I said, "You're always doing something. Me? I'm a hunter. Jade, Swift and I go on hunts twice a week, here in Equestria more often than anywhere else. I don't know what it is about this place, but it has the best hunting grounds in the whole world".

"And about that particular subject," Princess Cadance said, "It's obvious from the way you just talked that you enjoy hunting, but why is that? You're a pony, you can't eat meat. Not only that, but I just have a hard time picturing you enjoying the killing of another, especially an innocent, for food you can't even eat".

"When you grow up in a hive, you get the ability to eat meat," I said, "When I was but a baby, mother gave me little bites here and there of different meats. At first, the pony side of me made me spit it out, but I stopped after a couple of days. As for enjoying the hunt, well... it's exciting. I enjoy the challenge more than the killing, though. It's not the safest job in the world, though, and I have the scars to prove it... but man, can it be fun".

"Alright, well, we can discuss that further later on," My old brother said, "Another question I need answered is why changelings would raise a pony as one of their own instead of turning them into a thrall. After all, they need us to eat, right?"

"They need love energy in general," I explained, "They can get some from anywhere they can find loving, social creatures. Ponies just happen to be the best source because there's so many of us, and we're so full of love to give. All that aside, they're not monsters. I know all about the invasion, and I completely understand why you'd hate them, but you don't have the whole story. Back then, the hive was slowly starving to death. If she felt like she would've been given a chance at diplomacy instead of being turned away for being seen as a predator, she'd have gone the more peaceful road. But, she was desperate, and she didn't want to risk rejection, so she decided to invade. She wasn't looking to rule over and enslave the ponies, she just wanted a larger, fresher source of love energy. To put it into perspective... how far would you go to make sure Snowfall could grow up and live a happy, healthy life?"

"Any parent worth their salt would be willing to do whatever they had to," Princess Cadance said, "As a mom, myself, I can honestly say I'd probably do the same thing were I in her position. Knowing she's actually a motherly creature helps me see things differently, for sure".

"I'm with Cadance on this one," My old brother said, "I still don't really like the changelings, but I can understand why they did it. Still, kinda of hard to picture them as caring right now".

"Then, let's change that," Fenrir suggested, "Stay with us for a little while, if you are able, and let us show you what our nature is really like. Let us prove to you that we're not evil, life sucking creatures".

"We can stay for the rest of the day, but we have to leave tomorrow," My old brother said, "Cadance and I are in charge of the Crystal Empire up north, and right now, we can't afford to take a long break. But, you changelings seem to have brought her up right, so I'm willing to give you a chance".

"And perhaps when you get the time, you can join us on a hunt," I suggested, "Learn all about the thrill of the hunt, and see why I enjoy it".

"Um... I'll think about it," My old brother said nervously.

"And one more thing," Kara said, "Is there a chance that you could snag us a tour of some warships?"

"Not a chance until I get to know you guys a little better," My old brother said, "No offence, but I don't trust you enough yet".

"Can't blame a girl for trying," Kara said, obviously let down.

The rest of the day went by pretty smoothly, all things considered. Kara and Snowfall had a sparing match during the day, and it ended in a tie. Though Kara is still a little shorter than even I am, she still put up a good fight. In the end, neither could best the other. Still, it was an interesting fight to watch. My old brother and Jade seemed to hit it off pretty well, and Princess Cadance and Swift seem to be on the fast road to friendship. Overall, it was a great day, and I'm glad it didn't come to any raised voices or misguided racism. Just goes to show you that if you give somebody a chance, you'll be able to see the real them.

And if My old brother and Princess Cadance can forgive my hive after what they did seventeen years ago, then it's possible the rest of Equestria can as well... I hope, anyway. It'd be great if we could live alongside one another.

And her name isn't Snowfall. Damn it, it's Flurry Heart! How could I forget that?

Author's Note

So, now everybody's been reunited at last. I wanted to make it so there'd be some sibling conflict, but couldn't bring myself to do it in the end. However, I now plan to have Kara and Flurry Heart become better friends and go on adventures together later on.

And the next chapter will center around the start of the peace talks up in Canterlot.

Harvest permission (Chrysalis)

Author's Note

This chapter marks the first POV switch of the story. This one focuses on Chrysalis and the first days of the peace talks.

Harvest permission (Chrysalis)

Twilight had managed to get me an audience with both princesses of Equestria, something I'd not expected. I'm going to make the most of this opportunity. First thing's first, I need to work out a deal where the hive's harvesters can do their job in a safe environment. Shouldn't be too hard.. I hope.

After docking, we are greeted by a small band of guard ponies dressed in the most gold plated armor I've ever seen. After making sure everything is alright, one of the guard levitates out a small, black ring towards me. I figured this was the inhibitor Twilight told me about. One of the terms of being allowed to roam about the castle for the duration of this visit is that I have to wear the damned ring the ENTIRE time. Once it clamped down, I felt a sharp, stabbing pain in my forehead. It felt like somebody was driving a dull, round tip knife into my forehead. It subsided after only a few seconds, but those were the longest seconds of my life. Seeing me in pain freaked out my guards, and they probably would've attacked the pony guards if I hadn't told them to stand down.

We walked for whatever felt like forever, but we eventually arrived at the counsel chamber. I was shocked to see only Luna there. When I inquired about her sister, she informed me that Celestia was showing Twilight where her birth parents live. Fair enough excuse to be late. It also means Twilight and her family and friends got here safely, which is great. Strange how I would've wished so badly for the opposite to be true seventeen years ago. I can't believe how twisted I was back then. Anyway, so Celestia finally arrives after almost an hour, and takes a seat beside her sister.

"I believe Luna may have already said this, but welcome back to Canterlot," Celestia said, "According to Twilight, you want a second chance. My sister and I agree that you do deserve one after hearing what all you've done for Twilight, the one pony you should hate the most".

"I must say, it's good to be back in this castle, and under better circumstances," I said, "And I appreciate you giving me this chance. Before we begin, did Twilight happen to explain why I did what I did?"

"She touched on it, yes," Luna said, "Though, I feel you have more to tell us on the matter... is that correct?"

"It is, yes," I said, nodding, "Back then, our massive love stores were running low for the first time in almost five hundred years. Why? It seems as though true love isn't as easily found in these modern days. I don't know why that is, but it simply is. Having to hide in the shadows also meant fewer targets with which to look for true love. We needed to come out, there was no other way. Not knowing entirely how Equestria felt about diplomacy with predatory races, I felt rejection was more likely to happen than acceptance. I couldn't afford to be rejected, so I decided to invade and try to turn Canterlot into a love mine".

"So, you did what you did, not for conquest, but for the future of your hive?" Luna asked.

"Yes, I did," I said, "Answer me this: were you in my position, would you not have done the same?"

"I would do whatever I had to, to provide the best possible future for my little ponies," Celestia said, "However, that does not mean I would be able to take the side of morality. Sometimes, we have to go to the dark side to help those we love, but that does make it right".

"I do not mean to sound rude, but I believe we've talked this into the ground already," Luna said, "We're giving you the chance to repair the damage you wrought back then. I also believe you should be the first to offer up a demand, to which we can then discuss conditions".

"The first thing I ask should be obvious," I said, "I need my harvesters to be given free reign around Equestria so that we can maximize love intake".

"I had a feeling that would come up eventually," Celestia said, "And I suppose it's one demand we can't just turn down. However, there will have to be limits".

"Name them," I said, almost challengingly.

"Firstly, is the process painful in any way?" Luna asked.

"It is not," I assured, "If it were, we would have surely starved to death long, long ago".

"I just wanted to be sure," Luna said.

"Though it is painless, there is one other condition," Celestia said, "The pony whose love is being harvested must be willing to give it up. I do not want my ponies to become thralls".

"Fair enough, I suppose," I said, "Though, Equestria kind of needs to know about us becoming friendly before I'll make that a requirement. It'll be much too risky, otherwise".

"I fully intend to bring these meetings to light soon enough," Celestia said.

"Well, until you do, then I wish to put these meetings on hold," I said, "I want to be sure you'll actually hold up to your end of this agreement before I start to seriously consider an alliance with Equestria".

The rest of the day went by pretty well. Twilight told me near the end of the day how her parents had reacted. Their somewhat poor reaction was to be expected. Hopefully, they'll change their opinions on changelings before too long, for Twilight's sake. After all, it's not good to have one family dislike the other. I wonder how long it'll be before I meet her birth parents? Hopefully not too long, I want to share some stories and baby pictures.

Grand reveal (Chrysalis)

So, now it's time my hive's presence gets brought to the public eye. Celestia and Luna have been rehearsing speeches for days, but now, it seems they are finally ready. They are also very much aware now of how painless the harvesting process is because they've let me harvest some of their love energy so I could stay alive.

Anyway, after I awoke, I noticed a small lump of gray fur on my bed. Curious, I poked it, causing it to uncurl its body. The scream that came afterwards nearly shattered the windows in my room. The guards outside my room literally kicked down the door (I just KNOW I'll have to pay for a new door) and ran in with their spears at the ready. After scanning the room, I guess they figured nothing was wrong because they put their spears away.

"What are you doing!?" I called out before pointing at the lump of fur on my bed, "It's right there, on my sheets! Get it out of here! I don't much care how, just do it!"

The guard on the left walked over and pinked up the lump of fur and proceeded to walk TOWARDS me with it extended towards me and an evil grin on his muzzle.

"If you get any closer with that... that thing, I swear I'll kill you!" I yelled.

"But, he just wants to say hello," The guard said.

"I am NOT joking around!" I growled, "Not another step in my direction!"

"Cicero, enough scaring mother already," The other guard said, "Let's just get this thing out of here and let her breathe again".

I like you, Sergeant. Though, before they turned and left, Cicero tossed the lump of fur at me. Seeing the thing flying in my direction, I reeled back, eyes closed, and hooves held up in a defensive posture. When I finally opened my eyes, I was staring at the scariest, creepiest, most evil creature in all the world. Clinging to my muzzle was an opossum. Yes, the big, scary queen of the changelings is scared of an opossum. I've been absolutely terrified of them since I was a drone. Anyway, upon seeing this terror on my muzzle, I locked up. I couldn't move, no matter how hard I tried. I still have that blasted ring on my horn, so flinging it off telekinetically myself was out of the question. Before long, the Sergeant walked over and pulled the creature off. I think I might just promote him. As for Cicero... I'll save his punishment for when we get back to the hive... let him squirm for a while, scared of my impending wrath.

So, after such a terrifying morning, what else could go wrong? Breakfast, that's what. Mid bite into a slice of honey covered ham, the damned, furry terror showed back up. This time, it was on my shoulder. Upon seeing something gray suddenly slide into view, I looked over to see what it was. Upon seeing the creature, I locked up yet again. I think I peed a little this time as well.

"Tiberius, come over here, silly," Luna said.

The thing has a name? It has a name!? That can only mean one thing...

"I apologize for that, he tends to be a little friendly towards visitors I approve of," Luna explained after the terror leaves my shoulder.

"Yes, well... he can be friendly over there," I pouted.

"I take it you have already met?" Luna asked.

"He woke me up this morning," I said, "Do make sure that it doesn't happen again".

"Awww, are you making friends?" She asked the creature while petting it.

Damn it, it lives here... in this castle... where I'm staying for now. And it's a royal pet... so I can't have it flung across the room if it climbs on me again...

"Friends isn't what I would say," I said, somewhat pouting.

"Did you maker her mad, Tiberius?" She asked, "Go and apologize".

"That won't be necessary," I said, immediately straightening up.

After that, a grin slid across her face. I swear, if she brings that thing anywhere near me...

Anyway, after breakfast, we all went outside onto the grand balcony overlooking a sea of multicolored ponies. Here we go...

"Good afternoon, my little ponies!" Celestia called out, "Today marks the first day of a great change in Equestria. A week and a half ago, Princess Twilight returned to us with a request. She had been living for sixteen years with the changelings who attacked us before that. She wanted to give them a second chance, a chance to form an alliance with us. After careful consideration, My sister, Luna, and I both agreed to honor this request. Now, today, I bring to you Chrysalis, the leader of the changelings!"

She then motioned for me to step forward and speak up. Going to be completely honest, looking out over all those ponies was a little nerve wracking at first seeing as how I DID attack them when they first met me. Either way, I had to say something.

"It is as Celestia said, I wish for there to be an alliance between our nations!" I called out, "Sixteen years ago, Twilight came to me, risking everything in the process! I allowed her to live with us at the time, only using her for food at first! However, over time, I grew to like her! Eventually, we actually became friends! After a while of friendship, she promised that she could grant me a second chance if I wanted it! I took her up on it, and I'm ever so glad that I did! I know it will be a while before you can ever truly accept and trust me and my children, and I also know some of you never actually will, but I am willing to wait and work to earn that trust and acceptance!"

I then stepped back and Celestia take center stage again.

"In order to start down this road, my sister and I are allowing Chrysalis and her drones to walk, undisguised, outside the castle from this day on!" Celestia called out, "In addition, some of her drones will be allowed to gather the love energy they need for survival! However, Chrysalis has also agreed that this should only apply to those who are willing to let it happen! If you are unwilling for any reason, then you don't have to participate! If you are afraid of it being painful, I can assure you, from my own personal experience, that it is not painful at all! If anything, it just tickles a little!"

That stirred things up. The ponies may have been acting peaceful, but I could taste their fear and distrust. They did not like Celestia agreeing to let my harvesters do their jobs properly. Well, that's kind of to be expected.

"All that aside, keep in mind that the changelings are currently royal guests!" Celestia called out, "I do not expect you to accept them with open hooves if you do not wish, but I do expect you to at least treat them with some modicum of respect! If any of them comes to harm, or any law is broken with them as a victim, proper punishment will be dealt!"

That did not help the situation. I didn't even have to taste their emotions to know that, I simply had to watch as things impacted against the invisible barrier around the balcony. Never expected that to happen. You'd think the ponies would all have enough respect to NOT throw things at their princesses. Before long, guards swooped down, located the offenders, picked them up, and then flew them away from the crowd. That's pretty decent riot control, just pick up and fly off with any offenders.

Well, that was a thing that happened. Our presence is now public knowledge. It's not widely accepted, though it really shouldn't be in all honesty... at least not yet. Anyway, so now, I can walk outside the castle. I'll need to have a royal guard escort, as will any of my children who go out in public, but that's fine for now. My children are more than capable of handling themselves (Remember, it was only Twilight that caused the downfall of my invasion), but I'd rather not have them come to exchange blows with ponies while I'm going through these peace talks.

As for Luna's pet terror... no promises there.

Author's Note

So, now the reveal is over, things will be getting interesting.

Also, curious about the story behind Chryssie's fear of opossums? Well, you're in luck! It won't come out for a little while, but I WILL be making a chapter about it eventually.

As for why that fear was even thought up... well, I figured it'd be pretty funny to give her a fear of something ridiculous. We also don't get many stories featuring Tiberius. The thought just popped into my head as I started writing, and I couldn't help but laugh when I thought of it... and so I knew at that point what that silly fear of hers would be.

Humanling (Kara)

Author's Note

Rating changed to mature, and dark and tragedy tags added. In this story ark, it's going to get really dark. Word of warning, if you don't like stories with terrorism and severe mistreatment/torture, you may wish to skip this chapter and the next.

Humanling (Kara)

Hey! It's me, Kara. Say, if you can read this, could you maybe come break me out of this high security prison? I'll pay you... or do your homework for a whole year... just get me out of this place. How did I even get in here, you ask? Well, do I have a story for you...

It started a week after our presence was made public up in Canterlot. Apparently, things didn't go as planned. Ponies up there were furious and seemed to have lost all trust in the princesses. It's understandable after what my hive did a long time ago... but still, give us a chance! At least Ponyville is mostly ok with giving us a chance. There's a couple of ponies who don't want us to be in Ponyville, but at least it's not so many that we can't go about our days in relative peace.

Anyway, so, a couple of days ago, mom decided it was time to open the mirror portal and go through. I was excited about that. And hey, the portal mirror is in OUR castle, so why not use it? Anywho... seeing a whole new world with beings I didn't even know existed... sounds interesting, right? Yea, it so does... don't even try to deny it. Anyway, we went through a mirror and came out of a statue in front of a rather large building. We also stepped out in front of a group of people (Yes, that's what they're called... in case you're a pony and reading this), that are basically human versions of our friends back in Ponyville. They all rushed to hug mom... then they saw the rest of us and proceeded to go berserk. A couple of them got some punches in before mom stepped in and yelled "stop" at the absolute top of her lungs.

"What is going on?" Mom asked, "I thought you guys were friendly".

"Not towards terrorists," The... well, leader (Her name is Sunset Shimmer) said.

"They're not terrorists, they're my family," Mom explained.

"You're kidding, right?" Sunset asked.

"No, I'm not," Mom said, "I'll explain everything if you agree not to throw anymore punches".

They all looked at each other and nodded before taking on a neutral pose. Over the next hour, mom explained everything from how she was basically reborn to how she became the mother of the very first hybrid... aka, me.

"Well, that's backwards," The human Rainbow Dash said.

"How so?" Mom asked.

"The lings of this world are terrorists," Sunset pointed out, "Their leader, a deranged psychopath known as Chrysalis, started a war about sixteen years ago when she sent suicide bombers to multiple heavily populated locations".

"Suicide bombers?" I asked.

"They strap bombs to their chests and go to the most populated area they can find and blow themselves up," The human Applejack explained.

"They targeted every populated area they could," Sunset said, "We all have scars from one of those bombings. Back then was our last year before graduation. One of the most popular students back then was a ling. He was respected, he was very intelligent, and nobody expected what he did. During lunch one day, he got up and walked to the center of the cafeteria, where most of the students sat, and yelled out 'Death to the Infidels!' and then blew himself up. The students closest to him... there was nothing left of them. We sat at one of the farthest tables, so we didn't get hurt too bad. But we have scars that you can't ever hope to see. We watched a kid blow himself up, we watched our fellow students die while we lived. I still have nightmares about it to this day".

"Wow, no wonder you guys don't like us," Dad said.

"Not you in particular," The human rarity said, "But the lings in our world. You actually seem nice and likeable".

"Yea, you really do," Sunset said, "Though, others won't see it that way. Heck, you're better off back in Equestria. Lings and sympathizers are jailed for life. Lings get tortured every day, through various methods. Sympathizers are treated semi fairly, but they still don't get much freedom".

"And you're ok with that!?" Jade asked loudly, "No offense, but you guys kind of have some things coming. Equestrians don't like us much, and those up in Canterlot seem to show it the most, but they wouldn't go THAT far".

"You'd be surprised what fear can make somebody do," Sunset said, "Do I agree with what happens in those jails? No. But the lings need to understand what it's like. It could be done better, but at least they get their point across".

So, as it turns out, the changelings in this human world are nothing but basically mindless terrorists. I wonder what OUR queen would think of the Chrysalis in this world. I'll have to ask once I get back home... which I hope happens soon. When Sunset said changelings are tortured every day, she wasn't kidding. I look enough like a changeling to be considered one in full. For the past three days, I've been woken up with a high powered taser, I get whipped when I do even the tiniest thing wrong, I only get one meal a day... and what's the worst part? There's no love energy to feed on.

So how exactly did I get here? Well, our discussion was rudely disrupted by guards. My hivemates and I tried to fight back, but it didn't end in our favor. I managed to knock out a couple of guards before I got whacked hard in the back of the head, forced to black out. The skirmish took only about five minutes, so not much to say about it. We were outnumbered, so it was a lost cause, anyway.

Anyway, when I woke up, I was strapped down on a large, metal table. As soon as they realized I was awake, they flipped some switch and I felt electricity running through every inch of my body. Worst pain I've ever felt in my entire life. They turned it of every so often to let me get some quick breaths before shocking me again. I don't know how long it lasted, but I was so fucking happy when it was over. It's not gotten better, though, but at least the electric shocking is only when I wake up, now.

I thought I was tough enough to handle anything. Felt I could take on the world if I so wished. Now, I'm just a scared little girl who wants to go home more than anything else. I want to be able to have fun with the Crusaders. I'd give anything for mom to read me a bedtime story like she did when I was a nymph. I hate it here, and I hope I get to go home soon...

Alright, so why did I write the first CHS chapter like this? Well, I feel like there are more than just a few differences between Equestria and the human world. One big difference is that I feel the human Chryssie would be more the evil, terrorist type. I feel like there has to be some universe where Chryssie remains a villain, and I felt the human world would be best for that simply because how violent humans can be.

Why did I also make it so the non changeling humans torture and severely mistreat the changelings of their world? Like Sunset said, fear makes people do the unthinkable. When people are afraid, morals go out the window. If I'm not mistaken, even we Americans have this as part of our history concerning the treatment of the Japanese Americans after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Price of freedom (Kara)

So, I um... I'm free now. It'd been two weeks since I got captured. Apparently, Spike had managed to get away during the scuffle back at the school. When he went back, he immediately sent a letter to Canterlot, getting the attention of everyone powerful to ever have existed. All three princesses along with our queen, uncle Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, and our Equestrian friends came to our rescue immediately. I was in the nineteenth prison they checked, so that's why it took them so long to get to me.

The first thing I heard before being set free was a volley of shots being fired somewhere near my cell. I looked up and over at the cell door just in time to see the guard get turned into Swiss cheese. Serves him right. A few seconds later, my door was being opened by none other than the great and powerful Fluttershy. It appears as though I'm not the only one who goes berserk when my friends are mistreated. Anyway, when I saw her, I immediately leapt at her and gave her the tightest hug I've ever given to anybody. The embrace only lasted a half a minute, but it felt so good to just be able to hug someone again. When I asked where the others were, she said they'd meet us back at the entrance.

It was easy getting back to the entrance, Fluttershy had already put holes in every guard on the way to get me. When we arrived, the first thing I did was run over to mom. Remember how I said I'd given Fluttershy the tightest hug ever? Well, I'd just beaten that. I wrapped my... well, arms around mom and refused to let go. I didn't care that I was crying either, I was just glad to see mom again. She kept telling me that everything was going to alright and that she wasn't going anywhere... but I still wouldn't let go. It was one of those times where you know everything will be fine, at least for a little while, but you're afraid to let go because you're afraid everything will go south as soon as you do. She had to give me a piggyback ride so we could leave.

Once outside that horrid prison, the first place we went was Sunset's house. It was a nice house. Not all that big, but still plenty comfy. We basically destroyed the pantry to make a meal. Real meat... Sunset has REAL meat. Humans are omnivores, so they can eat basically anything if it's prepared properly. And meat's not all the bad, all you ponies out there, and I even have Princess Luna to back me up on that now. She downed a whole T-bone, and even asked for another afterward.

After our meal, we sat down in what's known as the living room and watched shows on this interesting thing called a TV. Wish we had some of those in Equestria, or at the hive. It didn't take long for me to fall asleep, I was exhausted. I don't know when, but mom eventually carried me up to one of the guest rooms and tucked me in, nice and snug.

I awoke to shouting and gunfire. Dad soon burst into the room, rushed over to me, picked me up, and took off with me still half asleep in his arms. Mom was downstairs fighting. She's more used to tough combat situations because of the insane hunts in which she partakes. Dad was never really a fan of those dangerous hunts...

Anyway, I was fully awake before too long, clinging to dad's neck as he ran. I wasn't getting down anytime soon, it'd take too long. I didn't much care at the time, either, cause I was kinda scared shitless. The princesses, Uncle Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, mom, Jade, Sunset, both Rainbow Dashes, and both Applejacks were doing everything they could to keep the rest of us safe. Gotta say, when the three princesses of Equestria are protecting others, they can be the scariest things in the world. Never expected Princess Celestia to be much of a fighter after hearing how easily our queen took her down, but I've since then changed that opinion.

Those bastards were relentless, and we were dangerously low on ammo... the worst kind of situation. But, their job wasn't to kill us... strangely enough. Instead, they'd run us right into a trap. You'll never believe who was in charge of the trap. The one and only version of my mom in this twisted world. She was evil, though, so I didn't like her. I still don't like her. She walked right up to mom and started to check her out.

"I've gotta say, when I first heard there was another me out there, I didn't believe it at first," She said, "Now, I see it. I still can hardly believe it, but I see it. Tell me, then, other me... why are you helping terrorists?"

"Because, these terrorists are my friends, my family," Mom half growled.

"Oh really? Your family and friends?" The evil one said, putting a dagger against mom's throat, "It's a pity, I think you'd have made an awesome addition to our fighting force. But, instead, it seems I'll just have to kill you".

As the dagger started moving, dad stepped in. He'd already set me down, and he was the closest one to mom. Anyway, he'd shoved mom's evil twin away before mom got hurt too bad. However, the evil one obviously had some kind of special forces combat training. She forced herself to slip, then swept dad's legs out from under him before any of us knew what was going on. I actually thought he'd gotten the upper hand... until she pushed him off. As soon as he rolled over, I saw it. Right in the center of his chest was the dagger, blade facing down.

"Been a good little while since my blade has tasted actual ling blood," She said as she pulled the blade out.

She didn't bother to clean it off before walking back over to mom. This time, I was the one stepped in. I wasn't scared shitless anymore, I was pissed off. You won't like me if you ever piss me off. I may not be special forces, but I know how to handle myself. When I clasped my hands around the blade of the knife, then raised up my right leg and forced it into her stomach. Knocked the wind out of her, forced her back, AND got her knife away from her. That one soldier had been unfortunate enough to be within striking distance. One guard dead, a dozen left, and one bitch left. She ducked and came at me, expecting to catch me off guard. Catch me off guard when I'm aiming to kill you... yea, what a laugh.

She managed to wrap her arms around my legs and take me to the ground, but she forgot about my arms. Dropping to the ground doesn't really phase me. My back is as strong as my carapace back in Equestria, so nothing came of the blow to my back. Instead, I raised up the arm holding the dagger, and thrust it down into the back of her head, killing her right then and there.

"Dying's not so fun, is it, bitch?" I growled after standing up.

Witnessing the sudden and abrupt death of their commanding officer was enough of a distraction to keep them from remembering about the rest of us. The others took the opportunity and jumped the closest soldier to them. Chaos ensued, it was great. Eventually, a few remaining soldiers got away, and my bloodlust died down. I ran back over to dad, who was still alive, somehow. Mom was holding him close. He was bleeding pretty bad.

I wish that world had magic. If it did, he might still be here... he didn't even say anything as he laid there in mom's arms. The last thing he did, actually, was give me a kiss on the forehead as I joined in the embrace. There was nobody who would help him because of what he was, there was no magic to heal him with... so he didn't make it. He died right there in mine and mom's arms... in the middle of seemingly nowhere. I knew he was gone when I didn't feel his chest rise again... and I just lost it. I didn't care who saw me. I'd just watched my dad die, damn it, I was allowed to cry.

We eventually got back to the portal while it was still dark. It wasn't as guarded as we'd expected it to be. Sunset and her friends stayed behind to start up their own resistance. Turns out there was more to how changeling sympathizers were treated than they were lead to believe, and they wanted to set things right. Besides, being me and my hivemates changed how they saw other changelings in their world. I really hope they don't just end their government's reign of terror, but also eliminate their version of Queen Chrysalis and replace her with a better queen and then try to start up an alliance. We'll never know their progress, though, because they destroyed the statue where the portal was after we left. We know this because our portal won't work anymore.

It's been a couple of days since we got back. Dad's funeral is tomorrow... I'm not looking forward to it. Mom and I had our queen cut us off from the hivemind for a little while so Princess Luna could help with our nightmares. Man, is she a great help. I honestly can't thank her enough for working as hard as she has been just for me and mom. It also helps that mom lets me sleep with her right now, and has even been willing to read me bedtime stories since we got back. I know how extremely childish that sounds, but it really does help.

*Sigh* I... I just want dad back.

Author's Note

So, I added the sad tag for this chapter... can you tell why? Yea, the last couple of paragraphs were REALLY friggin hard to write.

Also, I am very much aware of how much of a backstory this needs. Fear not, for I will eventually make one!

Pyre light (Twilight)

Hey there, it's me, Twilight.

It's been three days since we got back from that terrible world on the other side of that weird mirror portal. All that place had for my family and friends was nothing but pain and suffering. I hope that Sunset person and her friends can fix things up over there. Poor Princess Luna must be working overtime to keep all of our nightmares at bay.

Fenrir's death has been hard on me. I'm used to waking up in his warm embrace. Now, when I wake up, I don't have that anymore. Not only that, but just not having him around period isn't easy. I loved him more than anyone will ever realize.

It's been even harder for Kara, though. There's a special bond between a father and his daughter, and that was very true in our family. Now that he's gone, that bond is broken, and so is she. She hardly smiles right now, she doesn't laugh, she spends almost all day inside... she's just not taking it well. I want so bad to fix this, make her pain go away... but I can't.

Today was the funeral. We held it back at the hive. Everybody who went to that messed up human world attended, even all the princesses. They may not have really been friends yet, but they wanted to come for two reasons. They wanted to pay their respects for his sacrifice, and they also wanted to be there for my comfort. They still see me as they did seventeen years ago, and so none of them want me to go through this alone.

I had to explain how funerals at the hive were handled as they're handled differently in Equestria. Unlike ponies, changelings don't bury their dead. It all starts with a service where up to seven close hivemates get to speak for a fair bit about their best memories. After that is what's known as the "Guiding touch", where one hundred of us walk up, one at a time, and place our right hoof on the body, close our eyes, and offer up a short, silent prayer for safe passage into the afterlife. After that's done, the queen will walk up and recite a rehearsed speech while giving her own guiding touch. When all that is said and done, the body is then taken to the soul garden and placed upon a funeral pyre. The changeling who was closest to the deceased will take a torch and lay it against the bottom right corner of the pyre facing towards the garden entrance. The flames are supposedly strongest on the side facing the garden entrance (Don't ask me how this is, it's just said to be that way), and are supposed to deter the departing soul from going in the wrong direction. The last thing to be done is sing a tune after the flames reach the body. After the ceremony is over, the queen will sit through a silent vigil throughout the night until dawn. The ashes are spread across the garden grounds as the sun reaches its zenith the following day, and our queen will sit through a vigil to make sure the ashes are not disturbed until that time.

Anyway, as I entered the hall of memories, I couldn't help but notice that everyone from Equestria was already sat up near the front. Kara wanted to be the first one to speak at the service, so she was standing up near the podium. As much as she wanted to do this, I could tell by looking at her that it was going to be really difficult. Poor thing, I really hate it for her. Soon after I took my seat beside Princess Celestia (Kind of fitting, given our past), the service started. Kara was the first to speak, as she had requested.

"I want to start off by saying 'Thank you' for so many things," She said, "Thank you for always being there for me, for always believing in me, for helping me up when I fell in life, for guiding me when I was lost, and for just being the best dad in the world. No matter how sad I was, you could make me smile and laugh. While I was training with the Navy, you gave me all kinds of support. When I got scared, you were always there to hold me and keep me safe. You're the biggest reason I'm where I am today, and I won't ever be able to thank you enough for that".

She held it together surprisingly well for a short bit, but it was not to last. Before she could finish, she excused herself from the podium and then turned and walked out back. I then excused myself and went after her. I found her just outside the room, clutching tightly to a picture from her first birthday (Where she'd gotten that in such a short span of time, I will never know). I walked over and pulled her close. She was really hurting, and I wanted her to know I was there for her, to help ease that pain.

When we finally went back in, the others were getting ready to start the "Guiding touch". Kara and I were allowed to line up in front as we were Fenrir's family. When she went up, Kara did something none of us expected. She'd finished her silent prayer, then reared up, bent over, and gave him a quick kiss on the forehead. She went and sat down afterwards. When I had finished my touch, I went and took my seat right beside her. She leaned up against my side as soon as I sat down. After about ten minutes, mother walked up and gave her speech.

"Fenrir, you were a great part of this hive, a friend to all, a beloved hivemate," She said, "As we lay you to rest this passing day, I pray that you find your way to the Heavens, guided by all those that love you. The legacy you have left behind will never be forgotten, forever immortalized in each and every one of us. Good bye, dear friend, may you find peace at last as you walk through the eternal gardens above".

After her speech, we all rose and followed mother out to the soul garden. After Fenrir's body was laid out on the pyre, a torch was lit and given to me. I then walked down and gently placed the torch in the right most corner. Within moments, the bottom log caught, and the flames started to rise up. As soon as the flames reached the top, mother started the song.

Ieyui
Nobomeno
Renmiri
Yojuyogo
Hasatekanae
Kutamae

We sang those lyrics over five times as the body was engulfed, and the soul released. I'd be lying if I said I didn't have tears running down my face by the end of it. After the flames finally died down, the ceremony was over. The vast majority of us went back inside to go about the rest of the day, but mother, Kara, the Equestrians, and I stayed outside in the garden for a short while. Mother was going to sit through her silent vigil until the rise of the sun tomorrow morning. After a short bit, Kara and I said our good byes to the Equestrians and then took our place by mother's side as they left. It's going to be a long night, but we're willing to sit through it all.

I wonder what Fenrir is doing right now. Knowing him, he's probably enjoying a nice time by some ethereal beach if there is one.

Author's Note

This'll be the last sad chapter for quite some time (Yes, there will be more).

Also, what's your opinion on my version of a changeling funeral? Do you like it? Do you hate it? I'd really love to see what you think of it.

And what's the tune they sang at the end of the ceremony? It's the "Hymn of the Fayth" from Final Fantasy X. The hymn by itself is beautiful, but watch the scene known as "The Sending", it's moving to be certain. Here's a video of it if you don't want to look it up: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PWC6vUext0

Pony huntress (Twilight)

It's been a month since the funeral. It's not been easy, but we've been getting by. Kara's run into a couple bouts of trouble, causing her temper to flare up, but I've been fine with it the past few times. After all, some of these ponies could use a good temper ridden lesson in respect for the dead. Nobody's been hurt, but a few have come close, and a couple have even been turned into cacti. I did have to put a stop to it recently, however, after word got back to the princesses.

Anyway, Kara and I have also been reconnected with the hivemind. This happened not long after mother managed to negotiate some hunting grounds for us (I don't even want to know what the hive had to give for that). She couldn't score us my favorite area, but oh well... at least we can now hunt inside Equestria's borders without getting in trouble so long as we stay within the boundaries. Today, I would do just that.

Out of all my Equestrian friends, only Rainbow Rash was willing to come and watch how we hunt. I may have kinda severed some bonds with Fluttersky, but I should be able to fix that in time... I hope. Anyway, I'd also invited my old brother, and he actually said yes. Going to be completely honest, I didn't expect that given his reaction when I first brought it up. Even Flurry Heart joined us. Today, we were going after the biggest beast my party has ever hunted: A hydra. We'd gotten most of the Everfree Forest as a hunting ground, and Hydra's are found there. We've never gone after a hydra before, so we had no idea what to expect.

We all met up at the border of the forest. My old brother and Flurry Heart were the last to show, but I didn't mind waiting much. I'd invited them to come along on this hunt, so who was I to determine the speed at which they got here? Anyway, while waiting, I decided it would be best to sharpen my claws. It's been a while since I'd used them, and they'd gotten really dull. I lit up my horn and soon, my claws were uncovered. Taking notice, Rainbow Rash immediately set forth to question why I had claws cut into my hooves.

"They help when hunting," I explained, "Yes, I have a horn, but that's not always good enough. Sometimes you need a little more to make the kill. While Jade normally makes the kill, I've gotten the chance a few times. They're also better for self defense because of how much more easily I can move them around compared to my horn".

"But, isn't that what magic is good for?" Rainbow Rash asked, "I mean, you CAN attack with magic, right?"

"We can, yes," I said, "However, it taints the meat. Regular magic is harmless, but offensive magic uses radiation to deal the damage it does, so it'd be a bad choice for a hunt".

"What about in defense, then?" Rainbow Rash asked.

"Only in extreme circumstances will I defend myself with it," I explained, "I actually prefer a real fight instead because of the challenge it provides. However, if I can't win without it, and my life is in danger, I'll use it, but no other time".

"Fair enough, I guess," Rainbow said.

Not long after, my old brother and Flurry Heart had arrived. They also questioned my claws, and I gave them the same answer that I'd given Rainbow Rash. Flurry Heart also wanted to know why nobody's ever seen them, so I explained that I'd kept them under an advanced illusion spell this whole time. I figured that ponies weren't used to seeing their own kind with their hooves whittled into claws that can actually hurt, or even kill, so I decided to keep them hidden until needed. The answer seemed to satisfy. I mean, it IS true, but still...

Anyway, hunting a hydra was fun. Whenever we first found it, it was actually asleep. I can't kill something without giving it a chance to fight back. One, that's just wrong, and two, it's not fun. How did I remedy that situation? I jumped on one of its four heads. Jade and Swift followed suit and jumped on two of the other heads. I may not have wings, but I learned how to fly really quick. Also, we kinda pissed off our prey. As it got up and started roaring, me and the others got ourselves ready. No backing out now.

I was the first target. As all four heads descended upon me at the same time, I dug my claws in and braced myself. I didn't get to put my plan into action, though, as I was pushed out of the way by my old brother just before the heads came crashing down.

"What in Tartarus was that for!?" I yelled, "I had a plan ready to go!"

"That involves you getting eaten?" My old brother asked.

"Eaten, but not swallowed," I growled, "I know what I'm doing".

I had planned on puncturing through a head or two to start. It'd save us some trouble and I wouldn't be cutting the heads off, so none would grow back. Now, we had a very pissed off hydra with all four heads still completely intact. I'd invited these ponies to WATCH, not intervene.

Anywho, when I looked back at the hydra, Jade was on one of the heads, stabbing it, while Swift acted as sort of a shield by circling Jade and kicking away the other heads. Man, I love our teamwork. I joined them soon after by leaping up towards the head closest to Jade. This ensured that she wouldn't have three heads trying to get to her.

As the beside the one I was on came for me, I reared up. It got me, the poor bastard. Just as I had planned to start, I used my magic to propel myself upward, forelegs extended. I didn't go all the way through, but I made it far enough to cling to just below the brain cavity. I held on with one claw while I used the other to slice away at the bone. Hydra skulls are tougher than you'd think, but I managed. As a large enough hole formed, I used one more jump boost spell and propelled myself through the brain. Ever been inside a brain? It's kind of gooey and sticky.

Anyway, as I finally clawed my way out of the top of the thing's head, I noticed it only had one head left. Jade and Swift were already hacking away at it. I decided to join them. I didn't go to the head, though. Instead, I went for the neck. I managed to hack some nice gashes into it before the last head finally died. As the last head slumped down, Jade rode down, calling out "weeee" the whole time as if she were a nymph on a playground slide.

"Gotta say, that was impressive," Flurry Heart said as she floated over.

"Yea, you guys really work well together," Rainbow Rash said, "Say, Swift, think you could teach me some of your awesome moves?"

"I don't normally give away trade secrets," Swift said, pausing for effect, "But, I guess I can make an exception for one of Twilight's old friends. Besides, having a pony for an apprentice might be pretty fun".

"Twilight, not saying you stink or anytime," Jade said, scrunching up her nose, "But you kinda smell like month old rotten beef that's been drenched in sewage and farmed on by nymphs".

"Awww, gross," My old brother said.

That got a good laugh out of everybody at my expense. Afterwards, we all carried the crazy heavy corpse back to my castle. We had to have others help us as well, and that wasn't easy. Asking other ponies to help carry a dead body like that took some convincing. I owe a lot of favors now, but they'll be totally worth it.

Also, as Spike was preparing a meal for me, Jade, and Swift, Flurry Heart suddenly got a craving for hydra meat out of nowhere. Yea, she asked for a piece out of curiosity. She actually liked it and asked for a full steak. Who knew meat would be approved not by one, but TWO princesses? And yes, Princess Luna DOES still enjoy some meat to this very day.

Author's Note

And so, there it is, the first hunting chapter of the story (Maybe the only one, I don't know just yet). Also, as I promised looterguy, you finally get to see why nobody's noticed Twilight's claws as of yet. Was the explanation sufficient?

Also, "Fluttersky" and "Rainbow Rash" aren't typos, they are intentional. Twilight has a little trouble with names sometimes.

Awesome new card game (Kara)

Author's Note

!!!WARNING!!!

If you are easily offended or grossed out, you may wish to skip this chapter as it will be based around the MLP version of Cards Against Humanity, quite possibly the most offensive and disgusting game of all time.

Awesome new card game (Kara)

So, today was pretty damn fun. I got introduced to a strange being named "Discord", and trust me when I say he's quite a character. I think he may just be my new best friend. Anyway, so mom and I got introduced to an amazing card game today, and it's called "Cards Against Equestrians". What it is, is a card game which shows just how fucked up and twisted you can be. How it works is that everybody draws ten white cards to mess with. The card queen then draws one black card, reads it out loud, and then lays it down, and everybody else has to pick a white card that makes what the card queen thinks makes the most fucked up and/or hilarious sentence. Whoever reaches ten points first wins. It's really fun, and I learned a LOT about everybody today... even things I'd rather forget, but whatever...

Anyway, so it started out with Discord being the card queen (Or king as he said he preferred).

"Congratulations _____, you're the new _____," He said before laying the card down, "The card on the bottom will the first read, just so you girls know".

I looked through my hand to see what I could best use. After deciding on a combo, I laid my two cards down. After everyone hyad their choices made, Discord went around and read each one.

"Congratulations Derpy Hooves, you're the new Discord dancing on my head," He said with a slight frown, "Sorry Ditzy, but only I can dance on heads and get away with it".

"Congratulations Octavia, you're the new worst pony," He said with a chuckle, "Oh dear me, that's a good one".

"Congratulations Sweetie Bot, you're the new best pony," He said.

"I honestly don't know where the rumor that my sister is secretly a robot, but I can assure you it is most certainly untrue," Rarity said, "However, I just couldn't resist playing it there, it make perfect sense".

"I can turn her into a robot for a day if you want," Discord offered.

"No thank you," Rarity retorted.

"Your loss," Discord said, "Anyway... congratulations Pinkie Pie in full latex, you're Fluttershy's new secret stash".

"Sorry Fluttershy, you know Rainbow doesn't like to share very often," Pinkie Pie said.

"Eh, I'd probably allow that if I could video tape it," Rainbow said sarcastically.

"Moving right on along," Discord said, picking up mom's cards, "Congratulations Mi amore Cadenza, you're the new sloppy clop. Well, damn Twilight, let us know how you really feel".

"Nobody wants that, trust me," I said.

"Anyway... congratulations Princess Celestia... oh, this is gonna be good," Discord said, "Anyway, it seems that Celly is Daring Do's new daring dong... oh well, now... that's certainly a nice new occupation for her".

And last was my cards.

"And lastly, the hybrid daughter of the new Twilight Sparkle," Discord said, "Congratulations Sunset Shimmer in Succubus form, you're the new Nightmare Moon. Oh wow, that's... well, this is off to an amazing start. I'd have to say Applejack wins that round for sure though, I do so love cards that talk about Celly in embarrassing situations".

I had no idea who Sunset Shimmer was at the time, but it was the only thing that made sense to me. Anyway, the next round started after Applejack got her black card and everybody drew two new white cards. It was now Pinkie Pie's turn to be the card queen.

"For her next trick, the Great and Powerful Trixie gives you _____," She said, laying the card down.

Oh, Trixie... I still hate that mare for what she did to mom. I went all out that round.

"So, Trixie will give us a scorching case of the cutie pox for her next trick," Pinkie said, "Yea, I can honestly believe that".

"Her next trick after the cutie pox will be to give us... oh... wow Rarity," Pinkie said, "You actually think Trixie can keep Granny Smith horny long enough for one of her shows?"

"Rarity, you need help," Applejack said.

"It was the best I could come up with," Rarity said defensively.

"Right, anyway... so Trixie's next trick after that will be to give us... Hitting close to home there, Fluttershy," Pinkie said, her mane and tail going flat. I hear that's a REALLY bad sign of things to come.

"Please don't hate me," Fluttershy said, "I couldn't come up with anything else to fit her personality".

"Right... well, Scootabuse is... that's almost too far," Pinkie said, "Anyway... moving on. Trixie's hopefully not so dark next trick will be to give us... Unicorn racial superiority... yea, that sounds like Trixie".

"And for her next Trick, Trixie will give Applejack... oh, oh dear... oh my," Pinkie said, her mane and tail poofing back up as she tried to contain her inevitable laughter, "Twilight's secret clop stash... oh, wow Applejack... I didn't know you were into that kinda thing, but maybe Trixie will give it to you if you ask nicely".

"It's kinda hard to have a secret stash like that," Mom said, "The hivemind sees to that".

"Eh, something tells me it'd be almost all about books anyway," Applejack said.

"Anyway, so for her next trick, Trixie will give Kara, Sweetie Belle's virgin marshmallow pussy," Pinkie said, bursting out into uncontrollable laughter.

"I knew you were friends, but not THAT close of friends," Mom teased.

"Even if they were, I have to break your heart and inform you that Sweetie lost her virginity back when she started dating Rumble," Rarity said.

At this point, I couldn't have possibly gotten any more red.

"And f-f-for her last t-trick, Trixie will give Discord p-p-pony racism," Pinkie said, trying to stop laughing.

"Sounds about right fer her," Applejack said.

After that bout ended, a new black card was drawn by Rainbow Dash. Oh, and I got the point that time.

"Once upon a time, Equestria was ruled by _____ and _____," She said, "Welp, this going to be a boring round".

Nothing good for me that turn, so I just put out what sounded ok.

"Alright, so once upon a time, Equestria was ruled by Tirek and exploding Pinkie Pie clones," Rainbow said, "That's... alright".

"Once upon a time, Equestria was ruled by anthro Luna and dat plot," Rainbow said, "Ok, I could live in that Equestria".

At that, Pinkie took a rubber duck out of her mane (Yea... don't ask) and tossed it at Rainbow's head.

"I wouldn't act on it... I'd just... you know, stare a little maybe," Rainbow said, "Anyway, so once upon a time, Equestria was ruled by Princess Molestia... oookkk, and uh also by two fillies shitting into a bucket. Sweet Celestia, Twi, you're messed up".

"I take pride in that," Mom said.

"Right, so once upon a time, Equestria was ruled by Rainbow Crash, OH COME ON!" Rainbow said, almost yelling, "Am I ever going to get away from that?"

"Not as long as it exists on that card," Applejack pointed out.

"Anyway... it was also ruled by lesbians," Rainbow said, "And according to Kara, Equestria was once ruled by alicorn princess Derpy Hooves... ok, that's scary".

"That would kinda explain how she survives everything she does that's dangerous," Applejack said.

"True, but anyway... she ruled alongside Fluttertree," Rainbow said, "I forgot that was a thing".

"So, according to Discord, Equestria was once ruled by the pegasus master race, oh yea!" Rainbow said before bumping her hoof against Discord's right claw, "And also by Hasbro's corporate dickery. Are you ever going to explain who Hasbro is?"

"I'm afraid I can't, it would break the universe," Discord explained.

"And you don't ALREADY do that on a daily basis?" Rainbow asked.

"I twist it, but I've never broken it," Discord explained.

"Right, anyway... so according to Pinkie, Equestria was once ruled by Steven Magnets and the chocolate mouse moose," Rainbow said, "Go figure, you'd get the chocolate card".

"We of course, I'm just awesome like that," Pinkie said, "Also, it's pronounced mousse, not mouse".

"Whatever, the point goes to Discord for calling us pegasi the master race," Rainbow said.

"How did ah know that one would win?" Applejack asked sarcastically.

"Is there supposed to be a pattern like this?" Mom asked, "All three winners so far have been right beside each other, in turn order. Is that supposed to happen?"

"That's just how it goes sometimes," Discord said, "Don't worry, though, you'll get a point eventually... maybe".

"When Spike is asleep, Twilight likes to read books about _____," Rarity said.

"This is ALWAYS a good one," Rainbow called out.

Mom hated my card.

"So, Twilight likes to read books about... wincest?" Rarity said, arching an eyebrow at the end, "Alright, well according to herself, she likes to read books about... books. I feel like I shouldn't be surprised about that one".

"It makes sense though," Mom said, "The old me probably did that from time to time".

"I'd believe it," Rainbow said.

"Yes, well... Applejack thinks she reads about the... rainbow factory?" Rarity asked, "Well, that got really dark, really quick".

"How is that dark?" I asked.

"The rainbow factory was a factory up in Cloudsdale where rainbows were created from the blood of ponies forced to sacrifice themselves," Rainbow explained, "Princess Celestia saw to it's destruction, but it's never been forgotten".

"I guess it really isn't sunshine and rainbows here after all," Mom said.

"Yes well... let's what you think your mom likes to read, shall we?" Rarity asked, picking up my card, "Books about a human fetish? Well then..."

"Um, yea... no," Mom said.

"So, Discord thinks Twilight reads about a plush Lyra sex slave? Hmm, kinky," Rarity said, lightly licking her muzzle, "Pinkie here thinks Twilight likes to read about a mare in heat. Well, she did have a husband, so I doubt it".

"I never ever said that's anything wrong with lesbian love," Mom said.

"It can make for an interesting read as long as it's well written, I suppose," Rarity said, "Anyway, Rainbow seems to think you read about the evil at the core of Angel's black, black heart".

"Angel wasn't evil," Fluttershy said, starting to tear up.

"He could be when you weren't around," Rainbow said, "Hay, he lead the charge to tie me up in a kettle to roast me once".

"I'd have paid to see that," I said, giggling.

"Yes well, I'd have to give Discord that one," Rarity said, giving Discord the black card.

"What is Fillydelphia's biggest export?" Fluttershy asked.

"Dash and Pinkie, yall are gonna hate me fer this," Applejack said, "But it's all I have".

"Well, let's see what Fillydelphia exports," Fluttershy said, picking up mom's card, "O-or-or-orphaned foals, I sincerely hope they don't deal in that".

"It's Manehattan that's got that rep, sadly," Rarity admitted.

"Wait! That actually happens?" Mom asked, eyes going wide as saucers.

"The guard does it's best to keep on top of it all, but they can only do so much," Rarity explained.

"And I thought this world couldn't get any more fucked up," Mom said.

"Can we move on, now?" Fluttershy asked, picking up Applejack's card, "Futaloo is apparently Fillydelphia's biggest export".

"What's that?" I asked.

"Scootaloo is the most well known Futanari, or a pony with both sex's reproductive organs functioning at the same time," Rainbow explained, "She's gotten used to it now, but still... that was low".

Ah said ya'd hate me fer it," Applejack said.

I finally decided to ask why Rainbow and Pinkie would get more upset than anybody else. Turns out, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow are married and Scoots is their adopted daughter, so that's why neither of them like ponies talking about her like that.

"Let's not hate each other, if possible," Fluttershy said, picking up my card, "So, Kara says that Fillydelphia exports Twilight's secret stash of slash fics".

"I wouldn't consider it to be very secret if a had one," Mom said.

"Discord says it's actually Daring Do fanfiction instead," Fluttershy said.

"Then why ain't Rainbow living there?" Applejack asked jokingly.

"I don't need other's fanfiction, I got my own," Rainbow said.

"That, I gotta see," Applejack said.

"Anyway, it seems Pinkie thinks they export that Lyra plushie," Fluttershy said, "Um... which one?"

"Twilight's plush sex slave, of course," Pinkie said, causing the whole table to burst out laughing.

She's not called the element of laughter for nothing.

"And Rainbow says the biggest export is... Pinkamena's hacksaw?" Fluttershy said with a total lack of understanding.

"There's a really dark story out there called 'The dark side of cupcake design' that involves Pinkie hacking ponies apart to make her cupcakes," Rainbow explained, "Perhaps she gets all her hacksaws from Fillydelphia".

"Seriously? Somepony actually wrote that about me?" Pinkie asked.

"It's dark as Tartarus, but it's a pretty interesting read," Rainbow admitted, "You might even actually enjoy reading it if you give it a shot".

"Yes, well... let's see what Rarity says they export now," Fluttershy said, "Sexy pony socks. That's a nice way to end my turn, I guess. Let's see... I'd have to say that one wins".

Rarity grabbed the black card and everybody got ready for the next turn. Mom drew the next black card.

"_____ just earned their cutie mark! It's _____," She said, "Gah, I have the perfect combination for this!"

"That's normally how it happens," Rainbow said, "It's either on your turn, or you played the perfect card the last turn".

"That's annoying as Tartarus," Mom said, "Anyway, so Rarity just got a cutie mark of Futashy's dripping futa cock... uh, ok..."

Hilariously enough, that got Fluttershy to eep and reach down as if to cover something up... yea, don't wanna know.

"According to Kara, Twist got a cutie mark of a sexy saddle," Mom said, "Something you wanna tell me?"

"I swear, it's not like that!" I almost yelled out defensively.

"And Discord says that Sweetie Belle got a cutie mark of Joe's donut hole," Mom said.

"Good try, but she hates doughnuts," Rarity said, "I'll give you an E for effort, though".

"And according to Pinkie Pie, Lyra Heartstrings got a cutie mark of Pinkie staring at you through the fourth wall," Mom said, "Why do I get the feeling that's a reference to something?"

"Pinkie does have a knack for breaking the fourth wall of reality," Discord said, "How she keeps everything existing, I have no idea, but it happens".

"Right, not going to question it any further," Mom said, "Rainbow seems to think that your pony waifu, whatever that means, got a cutie mark of a giant horse cock".

"It could happen," Rainbow said, "I mean, a waifu is a mare that another pony has a huge crush on".

"Ok, well I'll add that to my vocabulary I suppose," Mom said, "Anyway, according to Rarity, I got my cutie mark in magic. Huh, one that's actually true for sure".

"That's what your cutie mark was for last time, so that's why I played that," Rarity explained.

"Funny how things happen like that," Mom said, "Anyway, last pony to get their cutie mark is Fluttershy, who has a cutie mark of Zecora's meth lab. That'd fit Pinkie more, actually".

After that, Rarity got the point for being so accurate and telling mom a bit about her past self.

"Oh, this is going ta be funny," Applejack said, "What does Prince Blueblood's cutie mark represent?"

"He's not a prince anymore, he's a servant now since he couldn't keep his trap shut about our hive," I explained.

"Humpf, serves him right," Rarity said.

"Indeed it does," Applejack said, "Now let's see... his cutie mark represents being trapped on da moon fer a thousand years. Yea, if only".

"According ta Discord, his cutie mark represents a fridge full of whipped cream," Applejack said, "Well, if ya'll are into dat kind a thing, ah suppose it'd be true fer ya".

"With how much he sold himself for once, I'm surprised he got any to be honest," Discord said.

"Yer kidding, right?" Applejack asked.

"Not at all," Discord said, "Ten thousand bits for an hour, it was ridiculous. And a few filthy rich mares actually paid up, if you can believe it".

"Ah can, actually," Applejack said, "But anyway, Pinkie says his cutie mark represents all three hundred and sixty five volumes of Twi's schedule fer da week".

"Was I really that bad?" Mom asked.

"Ya could be right insufferable with those checklists of yours," Applejack admitted, "But more on that later. According ta Rainbow, his cutie mark represents making magic. Well, he IS a unicorn".

"According ta Rarity, it represents Fluttershy's alternative modeling," Applejack said, "Wow, poor Fluttershy".

"It was all I had to work with," Rarity admitted.

"Fair enough," Applejack said, "Speaking of Fluttershy, she says his cutie mark represents a juice box fetish. Why do I find that ridiculously easy to believe?"

"If it's not super rich mares, a juice box is probably all he can get to go to bed with him," I said, causing another outburst of laughter that lasted a good five or so minutes.

"Ok, THAT was perfect," Applejack said, "Ah kinda want ta give ya da point just fer that. Let's see Twi's card first, though. It says having hot sex with Bloomburg. Eh, I don't see that".

After that, we took a vote, and everybody agreed I should get the point for my remark. Anyway, it was my turn, then.

"I just found out the mysterious Mare-do-well's secret, and it's _____," I said, "Give me some good ones".

After everybody placed down their cards, I picked up Discords to start the final turn of the round.

"Mare-do-well's secret is being a changeling," I said, "Woo, score one for the changelings!"

"Anyway, her secret also appears to be Derpy's hypnotic stare," I said, "Sounds kinda scary, actually".

"It can be," Pinkie said.

"Anyway, let's see what Rainbow found out," I said, "Apparently, her secret also includes Chocolate rain. Sounds fun".

"I miss the chocolate rain," Pinkie said, "Last time we got it was when we first met Discord".

"I remember that day as if it were yesterday," Discord said, "Oh, what fun times we had back then".

"You were also evil back then, and we had to seal you in stone," Rainbow pointed out.

"I am aware, but still," Discord said.

"Anyway... Rarity found out the secret that is Pinkie Pie," I said.

"Oddly fitting seeing as how she WAS one of the ponies playing as Mare-do-well," Rainbow said.

"According to Fluttershy, one of her secrets is shaking that plot," I said, "That could help, I guess".

"Mom says her secret is Rarity's whining," I said, "I've never heard you whine, Rarity, so I can't tell how true that would be".

"I only do it to get out of particularly bad situations," Rarity said, "It helps a ton when you're the slave of a pack of diamond dogs".

"I'll just take your word on that," I said before picking up Applejack's card, "Applejack says her secret is a hoof in the ass".

"A good ol' fashioned hoof right to da ass will fix almost every problem out there with a pony," Applejack pointed out.

I gave the point to Discord simply because of him playing the changeling card. And so, he ended up being the winner, with Rarity and I tied for second, Applejack taking third, and nobody else having any points. It was a fun game, but we had to cut it short because something came up in Canterlot that required mom's immediate attention. I hope we get to play it again soon.

So, I was going to turn this into a story ark, but decided against it after this one chapter took nearly 48 hours to write with regular breaks for food and homework. I might write another one later on, but not right now. Anyway, I hope you guys liked it, and I hope some things made you laugh.

Also, if ever you want to play CAH or CAE with me, just send me a message, and, if there's enough people, I'll set it up.

Mother's proposal (Twilight)

I got a letter yesterday that requested my audience in Canterlot immediately. When I first got the letter, I never expected what the trip would end with. I spent the next hour or so after I got the letter preparing for the trip. Kara had to stay behind. She was none too pleased, but it was at the request of mother, so she didn't argue.

Anyway, so I get up to Canterlot, and the first to greet me is none other than... my old brother. Yea, that was unforeseen. Apparently, the princesses both got caught up in some legal dispute and so I had to wait to talk to them. While waiting, my old brother and I went shopping. Since I had hardly really any bits, he bought everything. I said I'll pay him back as soon as I can, and I intend to keep that promise. Anyway, so what did we buy? Souvenirs for everyone. Nothing too big or fancy, mostly small trinkets and stuff like that.

So, it finally came time to talk. I entered the room and took my seat beside Princess Celestia, with mother straight across the table from me.

"So, uh... what's going on?" I asked.

"Well, let's start things off strong, shall we?" Mother asked, "The princesses and I have been talking about further integrating changelings into Equestrian society by having a hive within Equestrian borders".

Ok, didn't expect that one...

"As you know, a hive needs a queen, but I am unable to rule a second hive," Mother said, "That's where you come in. I wanted to ask if you wanted to become a queen and rule over a hive here in Equestria".

Ok... WHAT!?

"M...me? A queen?" I asked nervously.

"Yes, though fear not for the transformation is painless," Mother said.

Oh wow... she was serious. She really wanted me to be a queen. On one hoof, I'd finally be a changeling, and I'd live for another thousand years. But, how would ever body react? What would they think of me giving up who I am to rule over a hive? Thankfully, however, Princess Luna had a solution.

"I sense hesitation," She said, "The idea was also entertained to let you rule as an alicorn. It is no secret that you have a connection to Chrysalis's hivemind, so perhaps you could connect to one separate as well?"

"It would be little more than Equestrian telepathy until changeling magic is fed into the hivemind, but it would work eventually," Mother explained "I could feed my magic through a proxy, and it'll start up the hivemind in full. The only thing is, it'll take about a month to finish, whereas it'd be instantaneous if you became a changeling queen".

"One other thing to consider is that you could birth a new species if you stayed as a pony," Princess Celestia said, "Your daughter is proof that hybrids are possible".

"That is true, but... well, I just... I don't know how to feel about taking on another mate so soon," I said, "And the thought of taking on a new material simply for repo pulsation just doesn't right with me... Um, no offense, mom".

"None taken, do not worry," Mother said, "Though, I will urge you to consider everything laid out today. Do not give us an answer so soon, it needs to be thought about".

"I uh... yea, I'll definitely do that," I said.

With that, the meeting came to a close. I was led off to my guest room, which was really nice, by the way. I had a lot to think about. If I became a queen, I'd be a changeling, and everything would be slightly easier at the start. However, staying a pony would mean I'd become an alicorn and live forever, like the princesses, while bringing about the dawn of existence for a whole new pony/changeling hybrid species. The real question was if I was truely ready for such responsibility or not.

After careful consideration for two full days, I had my answer. I had talked about it with Kara over the hivemind, and she even spoke to and for my pony friends down in Ponyville. I talked with my old pony family as well. All in all, it seemed as though ever body was supportive. Kara said she'd be honored the leave our current hive and join mine. Heh... honored... crazy kid. My old brother asked if a permanent transfer to my hive would be possible, to which Princess Celestia said yes, so there's my first guard. My old parents were the only ones opposed to the idea, but that's because of their feelings towards changelings. Though opposed to it, they said they were still willing to back me against any ponies who got in my way. Family is everything, after all.

So, I gave my decision. After which, Princess Celestia took me to some Astral plane of existence and gave me some wings. I was wrapped up in a bright ball of light for a few seconds, after which, I spread my own wings for the very first time. It felt strange, but also... right. After returning to the normal plane of existence, I took off and then immediately plummeted back down, face first. I am so glad Kara wasn't there to see it. Don't need to give her anything else to tease me about.

But yea, so I'm an alicorn now. I'll soon be heading out to start my hive out in the Everfree Forest. A dangerous location normally, but we'll be living underground, so we should be relatively safe. Our main entrance will be located at the edge, close to Flutterby's cottage, keeping us safe on our way to and from the rest of Equestria.

Things are about to get a lot more interesting.

Author's Note

All hail Queen Twilight!

How do you guys feel about this decision? Like it? Love it? Hate it? Despise it? Well, fear not, for things are, as Twilight said, about to get interesting. Next chapter starts a new Ark about the start of Twilight's hive. I'll work to make it as interesting as I possibly can, I promise.

Grand Galleons Galloping Gallantly (Kara)

The peace talks have been going pretty damn well. Our harvesters have been able to gather enough love energy to keep the hive well fed in our absence, we have our own hunting grounds in Equestria, and drones can even take up permanent residence in Equestria now, if they want to. Along with drones being able to take up residence and make a permanent move into Equestria, our queen has also decided to allow the same of any ponies who want to live with us, provided they are willing to help support the hive. Unlike in Equestria, nobody is allowed to be lazy while living in a changeling hive. We all depend on each other, and that dependence won't become lax with ponies moving in (None have moved yet, but it probably won't be much longer).

Not only that, but I just got back from a great trip up in Canterlot. What was so great about it, you ask? Mom and I finally got permission to go on a tour of both of Equestria's prized flagships. It seems the princesses trust us enough now to let us see their own personal galleons in all their entirety. Let me tell you, both of those flagships are impressive.

When mom first told me about the trip we'd be taking, I didn't believe her. I tried calling her out on a joke, but then she showed me the letter she'd gotten... and I could help but squeal. I'd been waiting for a chance like that for some time, and I'd finally gotten it. How could I have possibly kept myself from squealing like a young nymph? I leapt out of bed and hurried to get ready. I wanted to get up to Canterlot as quickly as possible. Mom, however, wanted to just simply take her sweet time.

Once up in Canterlot, we were greeted personally by Princess Celestia, herself. She welcomed us warmly, like a mother greeting her children. I remember that smile very well, it helped one day when I came to visit after dad's funeral. She's been a really big help with that. So yea, she greeted us and escorted us to the castle. That's when I saw him again... that snobbish, now former prince, Blueblood. According to Princess Celestia, she had to strip him of his royal status when he continued to be nasty to our queen and her guards. Now, he's just a lowly servant. Serves him right. He spoke not a word as we passed.

Alright, how about I get the exciting part? Luna had joined us just outside the docks. Unlike her sister, Princess Luna welcomed us by pulling all of us into a group hug. After that, we finally got to the galleons. Man, we're they impressive. The first one we toured was Princess Celestia's, the "Solaris". More like a yacht than a galleon, it had a few cannons here and there, but not much else in the way of defense. Regardless, it was a beautiful ship. It was almost completely white with a gold trim. The center most sail had Princess Celestia's cutie mark on it. The figurehead was basically just a big sun, nothing too special. Everything about it was beautiful, and I couldn't wait to see the inside.

Once on the inside, I got to see just how "royal" the ship really was. It looked almost like the inside of the castle. Enchantments set in place made the walls glisten in the sunlight as if made of marble. All the furniture was fancy and looked insanely expensive. The mess hall (Food court, for you non-military ponies out there) looked like a bigger version of Princess Celestia's tea room back at the castle. There were a few tables, all with white tablecloths. Vases with flowers sat on every table, along with silverware sets already set in place. Ok, not a tea room, more like a romantic diner without the tabletop candles.

Though Princess Celestia's ship was beautiful, it was NOTHING compared to Princess Luna's, the "King Artemis". It had a darker tone, and was fit more for domination than battle. The rear most sail was webbed like a bat wing. I had expected her to use her cutie mark like her sister had done, but she had not. Instead, she used the design of her night guard's medal of honor. It was a crescent moon facing upwards, like a U, with a spire coming out of it and a five pointed, light blue star near the top of the spire. Splayed out on both sides were light blue wings. It looked amazing, and complemented the ship quite well if I do say so myself. However, that wasn't the most impressive part. When my eyes fell upon the hull, I noticed a good ton of gun holes. Guess how many cannons that monster has? Three hundred and eighty in total. That's one hundred and ninety on each side. Whatever ship Luna goes after better hope she can't catch up. If she does, all it would take is one volley of shots, and it'd be over.

The inside was less royal looking than her sister's. The decor gave off more of a vampony lair feel, but I guess since the crew are all bat ponies, it's fitting. The crew quarters had no beds since bat ponies sleep upside-down, dangling from beams installed slightly above the doors. Princess Luna's room looked like it belongs to a succubus. Just as a joke, I asked how many stallions she's bedded. I kinda got grounded for two weeks, but it's so worth the reaction I got from the princess.

Touring those two ships was great, and I enjoyed every second. After I'm done being grounded, Princess Luna even said I can go on the next maintenance flight. Sounds boring, doesn't it? Not when part of the flight will take place at a naval shooting range. Yea, that's going to be fun.

Author's Note

Ok, so I've decided to add the name of the character who the chapter is told by to the title. Do you guys think this helps any? Please, let me know.

Also, before anybody challenges the insane number of guns aboard the "King Artemis", look up a Portuguese galleon known as the "Botafogo". According to what I've read about it, that monster had 366 cannons. Yea, I added about 14 more for Luna's flagship, but it COULD be possible.