How to Raise a Changeling Queen

Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1: How to Bring a Nymph Home
Chapter 2: A Basic Guide to a Nymph's Basic Needs
Chapter 3: Guarding Nymphs 101 - Bonding with your Charge, Pt. 1

Prologue

The sound of buzzing swarmed the night sky as Queen Argia led a few dozen of her changelings, whom were carrying a delicate package - a black and orchid colored cocoon, the colors of their specified group from the Kingdom Coenagrionidae of the Wetlands- above themselves, to a suitable destination only she could find.

Looking up at the moon, she saw the faint silhouette of Luna, the Alicorn Princess of the Moon staring down at the world.

How long has it been since her banishment?

Idly digging through the depths of her mind, Queen Argia estimated the time to be about 894… or was it 895 years?

It was so hard to keep track of time when one had lived so long.

She shook her head to rid of her speculations. Now was not the time for that.

“Not enough rocks.” She muttered glancing over what was a seemingly peaceful stream of water.

“Too open.” She snarled as they flew over an open meadow of grass and flowers.

“The water is filthy!” She growled as she led the small swarm down over a lake, unable to even see her reflection through the muddy water.

She let out a yell of frustration as they all flew back up into the sky. “No. No? No! That’s it! We’ve been at it for hours now! It’s a sign? A sign. It’s a sign!” She declared with a maniacal laugh, her navy, stringed mane springing more stray strands as her pinkish eyes twitched, her magenta irises dilating to show her craze. She gave a nod of affirmation to herself as she turned around to face the changelings following her, “It’s official! We can’t find the perfect place for my daughter, Violacea, to peacefully rest at during her time in stasis. Which means we should go back to the hive, take her out so I can spend more time with her, and we can happily live together for the rest of our immortal lives. Yes? Yes. Yes! Back to the hive!” She declared, propelling herself forward in the completely opposite way the swarm was flying with her four, long and translucent black wings.

She didn’t make it any further than the back of the swarm when a few of the changelings, already hovering in wait for her, quickly grabbed hold of her and gently pulled her back toward the front of the group.

“What are you doing you imbeciles? Why aren’t you all turning around to go back to the hive?” She barked despite already knowing the answer. “Get your hooves off of me this instant! I am your Queen! I order you all to turn around and carry my daughter back to the hive before I disconnect you all from the h-” A hiccup.

“Disconnect you from the-” This time a sniffle just as she reached the front of the group, the changelings pulling her there excusing themselves to go to the back once again.

The changelings all glanced at each other worriedly, already knowing what would come as this was the seventh time she would go through this.

The Queen wailed, “I’m so sorry!” She cried, turning to reach toward an already resigned changeling, pulling him in close to clench in her hooves tightly. “I-If I could! I wouldn’t rip you all from the hivemind! N-None of you deserve isolation! Even for a d-day!”

The changeling squeaked, “Y-Your majesty… Please.” He tried to gasp out with little breath, his wings buzzing around wildly in an attempt to pull out of her tight embrace.

Instead, Queen Argia merely tightened her hold on him as her wailing turned into sniffles, “Unfortunately, I have no choice in the matter.” She woefully said as there was a collective groan and a few irate buzzes created by a quick vibration of wings.

During her stress as the group traveled in search for a peaceful and safe place for her daughter, Violacea to rest during her cocooned stasis, Queen Argia seemed to have taken to talking to the group of changelings -as she usually did in any other times of stress- however, this time she seemed to have not noticed how she had been repeating the same words that by now, they each had committed it to memory.

“As a species, us changelings are slowly declining… What used to be seven hives has now been reduced to three.” She began with a sniffle, not noticing how the changelings behind her were mouthing the same words as she did.

Or perhaps she did know, but was far too gone to be offended.

“S-So as a Queen, I have a responsibility to help my daughter, a new Queen, to build a hive of her own. For us, as a species. S-So if that means I must,” her voice grew shaky as more tears fell. “If I must put her into stasis, despite only having two years worth of time with her, to prevent her from attempting to integrate herself into the hivemind and causing confusion amongst you from having two authority figures…. And disconnecting a quarter of the hive and putting them into stasis to give and be ready for her when she wakes. Th-Then I-I...”

“I willllllll!!!!!!!!” She wailed loudly once more, seemingly having forgotten that all these changelings had willingly volunteered to migrate to her daughter’s hive and put to sleep until Violacea built a connection with them.

The changeling in her arms briefly thought that disconnecting from the hivemind was the least of his problems, worrying more about his head disconnecting from his body instead.

To his relief, the Queen shoved him away with a light gasp, causing him to somersault backwards in the air before shaking his head and flying back into position as she threw herself toward the cocoon that was now shuffling about and lightly glowing with raspberry magic, making it difficult to keep hold of for the changelings.

“Oh my dearest daughter! My Violacea! Shhhh Shh Shhhh.” Queen Argia cooed, hovering over the cocoon and peering into the small window that granted her a view of her daughter’s scrunched up face.

The nymph encased inside seemed to struggle about for a few seconds, though quickly relaxed upon hearing her mother’s voice. Slowly, Violacea’s eyes attempted to flutter open, revealing lilac colored eyes with purple irises, and a small smile curled across her face showing two, baby fangs upon seeing Argia.

Her own smile stretched across Argia’s face, though albeit tearful as she placed a chitin holed hoof over the cocoon, rubbing it lovingly. “I’m sorry I can not spend more time with you my daughter.” She whispered, “But after you connected to one of my - yours now, I suppose - subject, I had no other choice but to encase you…” She said, choking once more.

“Please do not fret though,” Argia assured, “I promise you that by the time you wake, I will have changelings ready for you to start your own hive. You’ll have workers of each class; from laborers to advocates, from artists to researchers… You’ll have enough of each faction. I’ll have everything ready for you when you.” She began choking, “For when you come back.”

Violacea smiled wider, as though understanding her mother’s words before her eyes fluttered close once more, returning to slumber and causing the magical glow to slowly diminish as sparkling dust into the night sky. The moon seemed to shine brighter at that moment, as if answering the disappearance of the magic.

Queen Argia allowed another sniffle and lowered herself to press a kiss on the window of where her daughter’s forehead would be.

Raising her head, a light shimmering from below caught her attention. Diving a little under the swarm, she slightly gasped at the sight of a beautiful, undisturbed lake… isolated at the side of a grassy mountain.

Understanding her intention, the small group of changelings quickly spread out from one another, leaving just a few to carry the cocoon and follow Queen Argia around as she and the rest scouted to examine the area.

There was no path anywhere close to the lake, confirming its isolation from any other higher species. A quick dipped hoof in the water and magical prognosis showed its’ cleanliness and high nutrients in the ecosystem, mandatory for her specific hive’s -and her daughter’s by default- survival as they relied heavily on being more than well hydrated to survive. (Quite unlike the other remaining hives where one, the Chrysothemis Changelings, thrived in the desert while the other, the Lampyridae Changelings, preferred cooler areas such as forests, both going into hiding in such locations) . The tall grass and large rocks surrounding the shore would allow for fantastic camouflage. The height and geographical location assured the mother that she would not have to worry about her daughter being frozen to death when winter would arrive.

“It’s perfect…” She said with a smile… and a pang in her chest.

With a location that met her requirements… She had no choice but to prepare for her long, but temporary departure with her daughter.

The swarm buzzed around the lake, finding a place to lower the cocoon, and upon seeing a small lonely area close to the lake’s mouth that led to a small stream, obstructed by tall rocks declining into the water and tall grass, she nodded to her changelings.

Slowly and carefully, they deposited Violacea into the water as Argia supervised from the shore, her four long wings resting on her back and sides as though acting like a cloak. She continued watching with little to no words as her daughter was placed in such a way that blended in against the rocks, until only just a small fraction of the window was peeking out. In time, Argia had no doubt that the cocoon would be covered in moss.

Reclining her head, her crooked horn glowed with her hive’s signature teal magic, casting a quick spell onto her daughter that would alert Argia when Violacea woke.

“There…” She said, “Now when you wake, I’ll know. I’ll come flying as fast as I can to get you, all you have to do is stay put.” She paused, a small chuckle escaping from her in the form of chirps.

That should not pose as a problem, as nymphs typically preferred staying in water for as long as possible until they were encouraged out.

Oh, she couldn’t wait until her daughter woke. There was so much to do, so many milestones to be a part in. History to be made with the birth of a new hive…

No longer would Argia have to feel so alone now that she had a daughter to live with.

Hopefully it would be a feeling that her daughter never had to live with.

Another tear fell, prompting a changeling to worryingly tug at his soon would be ex-Queen.

Wiping her tears away, she waved him off. “I’ll be okay… What’s another century or so of waiting?” She asked, mostly to herself.

The changeling pulled back to allow his queen a moment to calm herself.

When she felt ready, she looked up to the couple dozen changelings and gave them a sad smile.

It was time to start the long flight back to the hive.

… A flight that would end up being too long ninety-one years later on another beautiful, and peaceful night such as this, when another royal member - the Princess of Equestria and keeper of the Sun - would find herself staring into curious purple eyes that were peeking out of the water.

Chapter 1: How to Bring a Nymph Home

During all her years of living, Princess Celestia had learned to have a certain level of expectancy during diplomatic trips. Long talks with ambitious politicians, quick discussions with those who were of similar minds, poised banter with nobles and representatives, a few declines of a longer stay in preference for a camp out in nature. A night spent that Celestia wholly expected to be relaxing by examining nature’s beauty, though not without a bit of fuss from her accompanying guards and diplomats, but peaceful nonetheless.

Having a long life allowed a vast amount of experience, granting a pony such levels of certainty. Of course, there was a wide margin left for the unexpected.

A margin that she could not help but be highly amused, and grateful for, during her trip to Prance.

A rookie translator having been assigned to one of her diplomats that nearly created an economical error in trade, had it not been Celestia’s intervention. An exhausted and sleep deprived chef that had nearly started a fire in the castle kitchen, leaving the Princess and her diplomats no choice but to forgo breakfast or go into town to find their own means of food. (A simple breakfast tea and some fruit was enough for the Princess.) A sudden rain shower created by a few pegasi fillies and colts who were playing around in the sky during a tour of the new castle gardens.

Quite a number of things seemed to have occurred that left the nobles to pale with each passing moment and Princess Celestia could not help but share a few chuckles with the Prench Minister.

Accidents happened, and she assured that she was fine with such, allowing the meetings to continue going underway without any political or economical trouble.

Of course, this seemed to continue very well into the camping trip…

However, nothing in all her years could prepared her for finding a pair of large, curious, purple eyes peeking out of the surface of the lake that reflected her sister’s crescent moon, and stare at her moments before having to raise the sun.

For once, Celestia’s mind had seemed to halt in surprise, not knowing what to do in this situation.

So she stared, unblinkingly.

The pair of eyes stared back, unmoving.

After a few more seconds of gathering her wits and bearings, Celestia finally moved.

She took a step back, her horn lighting up in a golden glow at the ready.

Those were not pony eyes.

“Changeling!” She lowly growled, snorting out a quiet puff of air, careful not to wake the other ponies back at the campsite, sleeping peacefully on the other other side of the lake, away from the shore.

“So you’ve finally decided to come out of hiding? To feed on the love of my ponies and drive them to illness again?” She accused more than asked as she reached out with her magic to grab hold of the changeling and began to pull it out of the water, “I will not allow it! I drove more than a few hives away once, and I’ll do it again! So le-”

A sneeze from the changeling interrupted her, but was not what caused Celestia to falter.

This would be the second time that experience had failed her today, as the sudden action had cut the changeling off from Celestia’s magic, causing the golden aura to fizzle out into the night air like dust being blown off in refusal.

A low, watery buzz warbled into the air as the changeling sank just a tad deeper into the water, eyes looking sad as ears wilted. Bubbles rose to the surface of the water from where the changeling’s mouth would be, as ripples continuously formed from behind the changeling’s head. The sight made the creature look most piteous…

For the third time, Celestia found herself befuddled as feelings of guilt rose in her chest.

She quickly shook her head, hardening herself once more as she attempted to muster another glare.

This must be a trap! A ploy to manipulate her into lowering her defenses!

It was a common tactic among changelings after all.

But...

She faltered once more.

It didn’t explain why her magic was shrugged off so easily.

Perhaps the strong desire to stay in the water and not be pulled out was what fueled the Changeling, allowing it to cut off Celestia’s magic with its’ own? That would still require a subconscious understanding of magic though...

Mixed feelings arose in the Princess then. Ranging from curiosity, frustration, amusement, defensiveness… all toward the little creature in the water.

A chirp sounded this time, all previous sounds from the changeling coming to a stop as it caught Celestia’s attention.

Arching a brow, she lowered her head to get a better look at the changeling, who had returned back to staring at her with curious eyes, though with a slightly tilted head, as though asking, “What’s wrong?”

“You are a most curious one.” Celestia huffed with slight exasperation.

The changeling peaked out a bit more from the water, cocking its’ head to the other side in confusion.

Celestia sighed.

She craned her head to the left, then to the right in search of other changelings. Despite the light shining from the moon though, it didn’t provide enough sight for Celestia’s search.

Her horn glowed once more as she casted a spell, just a simple light spell that most foals could cast (though granted, hers had much more flourish to it). Within seconds, little orbs of light appeared around the small area of the lake, brightening the immediate area for her to get a better look around.

As her initial thoughts during her walk around the lake confirmed, this area was completely isolated and undisturbed…

It was just her…

And the changeling in the water.

She turned her attention back to the creature, another question on her lips and mind…

But she faltered once again at the sight of the small, purple crown with pink bulbs growing just behind the changeling’s crooked, and holed horn.

Guilt rushed back into Celestia’s being once more.

The changeling was just a foal. A nymph, her mind helpfully supplied.

While changelings were a ponies’ natural enemy, parasites that fed off their love and drove them to illness, it did not mean that Celestia wished death upon them. Hunts for changelings nearly a millennia ago that occurred commonly at one point, had plagued her during those times, and while those hunts had successfully driven them away into hiding, it was not something she was keen on having be replayed. She especially did not wish death upon their nymphs…

… Or on a new Changeling Queen.

She was fully aware that since the disappearance of the crystal ponies, since the loss of the Crystal Empire, the changeling race had begun to decline even more so despite having already gone into hiding to preserve their numbers from the hunts. She supposed that ever since then, they only appeared in small amounts to feed, but not any more that would signal their location.

… Or survival…

Celestia stared at the nymph with bemused intensity.

How many hives were left?

The last time she kept track was just a few centuries ago….

Five perhaps?

No, at that time one of the hives had been rapidly declining in its’ numbers….

Four sounded more likely.

She faltered once more.

Had three changeling queens really passed from this world? Three supposed immortals?

Her brows knitted in concern.

It seemed as though that the number of immortals were rapidly decreasing… With Discord’s petrification, Trident’s -The King of Seaponies - self imposed isolation, a few deaths (natural, of course. As immortality still came with the cost to take care of one’s self) here and there, Rhulain’s - The King of Dragons - Slumber… Luna’s banishment.

Loneliness washed over Celestia at the reminder, causing her to lower her head in sadness.

Though their numbers had always been a bit small with only a few dozen of them, the presence of one another was constant…

Living was strenuous though, so their numbers had decreased over centuries. Fights occurred between themselves that resulted in; banishment, imprisonment, isolations...

Now it seemed, it was just Celestia, Cadance, and…

A coo sounded once more with the sound of a low buzz, snapping Celestia out of her reminiscence and pulling her attention back to the nymph Queen.

All previous tension in her body dropped at the sight of the nymph, now with her head out of the water, happily staring at the golden bits of magic dancing about like fireflies. Celestia’s own evolution of a simple light spell.

Celestia couldn’t help but to chuckle at the adorable display. Young ones alike were the same anywhere no matter what race it would seem. “You seem to enjoy this little trick.” She said

The nymph merely chirped, reaching out with a holed hoof to touch one, surprising Celestia at the color of nymph’s chitin.

It was lavender matted, instead of the black or brown chitin that three hives ,that she could recall most out of the seven, had.

“I suppose you’re not related to the Lampyridae hive…” Celestia said with a bit of confidence. It was rather easy to eliminate, as the hive were vastly black and green, colors that certainly were not passed down to the nymph in front of her. She was also certain of the hive still being alive, as news of illness plaguing a small village with the symptoms of strained exhaustion, delusion, and amnesia pertaining to loved ones had reached her ears over a century ago.

She had no choice but to send Cadance to help care for the ponies at the time, who reported back with sighting of changelings from said hive.

The remaining hives however, she was unsure of as she could not remember seeing much in the past millennia.

Actually, now that she thought about it, she didn’t even know which hives were still remaining other than the Lampyridae hive. She only knew for certain of one hive, the Culicidae hive, going extinct.

She grimaced in remembrance of the hunt for them in Saddle Arabia, where torches had lit through the desert night and shrieks filled the air.

The nymph before her gave no indication of acknowledgement, still completely absorbed with the magic lights.

Smiling, Celestia brought one to land on the nymph’s horn, causing her to look up cross eyed to see it better, before the Princess caused it to burst like a small firework.

The display did it’s job in amusing the nymph, as the watery, buzzing vibration grew louder and her smile stretched wider.

Celestia giggled as she brought more of her magic lights to dance around the nymph and burst in display. “I don’t suppose you know which hive you belong to do you?” She rhetorically asked.

As expected, the nymph did not provide her with an answer, instead concentrating on the little golden light resting on her nose while the tip of her tongue peeked out at the side of her mouth. The only indication of her hearing the princess being that of a flickering ear.

Celestia smiled in fondness, before a small tugging sensation pulled at the forefront of her mind.

It was time to raise the sun.

Casting her gaze toward the horizon, only to close her eyes in concentration, she allowed her horn to glow as she pushed the sun to its intended course to make way for the dawn while setting the moon.

By the time she opened her eyes, she couldn’t help but lightly gasp in shock.

Raspberry colored magic intermingled with her own bits of golden magic, all dancing about in glee before taking toward the brightening sky and bursting into a fit of sparkling light.

A joyous chirp sounded through the air, accompanied by a low, but clearer buzz along with a bit of splashing.

Looking back down, Celestia found the nymph standing close to the shore, nearly belly deep in the water, but closer nonetheless.

The nymph was giddily stomping in place, causing the water to splash a little, while her four, long, translucent purple wings vibrated so hard that they must have shaken all of the water off as they created a light purple blur. Her navy blue, stringy hair was still sopping wet, as her eyes looked up to the sky at the display, but her horn though, was what drew Celestia’s attention as it was wrapped in the same raspberry glow as the new lights.

Another smile stretched across Celestia’s muzzle at the display, “You have a penchant for magic it seems.” She said, always happy to be surprised with talent. While the light spell was simple, Celestia’s version was a bit more complicated as it required not just more focus, but power as well in order to disperse the little bits of magic to spread light.

The nymph suddenly froze, her wings halted, her magic fizzing out and causing all the lights to cease into sparkling dust as she turned her attention back up to Celestia. Suddenly realizing the vast difference in size, the nymph shied away, taking a step back further into the water as she folded her wings to her sides.

A light pang made it’s way into Celestia’s chest at scaring the nymph away, so she attempted to make herself appear a little smaller by folding her legs to rest on the ground and lower her head. “It’s okay little one,” Celestia assured quietly, “You can come closer.”

The nymph seemed hesitant, though her ears flickered in interest.

Celestia gave a small smile, allowing her horn to light up with magic once more as she created more of her little balls of light to float beside her, hoping it would help encourage the nymph. “Why don’t you show me that little display of yours again?” She suggested in a hopeful tone, making her magic dance about.

It caught the nymph’s attention, but wasn’t enough to bring her out, causing Celestia to inwardly frown in slight disappointment, though she quickly shook it off. Perhaps a new trick was in order.

She slowly gathered the small orbs of light, clustering them together before forming them in the shape of a rabbit. Glancing up, she couldn’t help but feel pleased at herself for perking the nymph’s interest once more as she craned her neck down and forward to get a closer look.

She made the rabbit hop on over to the water, having it jump onto the surface and toward the nymph before it leaned up to sniff at her.

The nymph followed the rabbit’s action, curious as to whether or not it was real, only to jolt her head back when the rabbit reached up, bopped her on the nose, and ran back to shore.

Celestia couldn’t contain the giggle as the nymph shook her head, wrinkling her nose to rid of the sensation before narrowing her eyes down at the rabbit waiting at the shore. Narrowing her eyes and crouching her chest to the ground, the nymph prepared herself to pounce the rabbit by wiggling her flank a bit in the air like a ferocious kitten.

By the time she made her jump, she went right through the magical apparated rabbit, making a small splash and only managing to wet her nose.

She sneezed again, causing Celestia to raise a foreleg to chuckling into her hoof.

The nymph huffed, sounding very similar to how Celestia had done so earlier, wiping her nose with a hoof before pointing to the rabbit indignantly while staring at Celestia and stomping her other hoof with a small splash.

Amused, Celestia brought the rabbit to stop in front of her, “If you want to catch it, you have to make one yourself.” She said, fully knowing that shape manipulation was a bit complicated for young unicorns… Though she wasn’t sure about changelings.

The nymph paused as though contemplating the suggestion, making Celestia briefly wonder if the young Queen could even understand her at this age. However, it seemed as though she did as Celestia watched the young one’s mind work in fascination. The young Queen’s attention turned to the rabbit and the pupils of her eyes shifted back and forth as though searching for something. Finally, widening her stance, the nymph wrinkled her nose, her tongue peeking out at the side of her muzzle in concentration as her horn lit up with her raspberry colored magic.

Celestia watched with interest, wondering if the nymph could achieve something so complicated.

Only to laugh as the nymph’s ears dropped in disappointment when all she could do was summon a shapeless orb of magic.

The nymph was certainly adorable, and Celestia couldn’t help but be endeared by her actions. “Do you want to learn how to make it?” She asked

The nymph chirped.

Celestia grinned as she patted the space in front of her, gesturing for the nymph to come closer.

All shyness forgotten, the nymph clambered out of the water, stumbling over her wobbly hooves just a little, before making her way to the spot Celestia gestured to and plopped her flank down.

Celestia couldn’t help but giggle once again, warm delight spreading through her at the nymph’s urge to learn and rapt attention.

“Why don’t we start with displaying a bit of magic, and then work from there hm?” She asked, garnering another chirp.

Together, the two allowed their magic to form, and in no time there was a shapeless orb of golden and raspberry magic in front of the two, with Celestia’s just a bit larger.

“From here, you just need to picture the shape of a rabbit.” Celestia said, “No need to rush, you can start off slowly.” She finished, doing just that to help the nymph visualize and understand what she was saying.

The nymph didn't give any indication of understanding or acknowledgment, her look of concentration forming once again as she tried to follow Celestia’s magic, rapidly glancing between her own magic and the Princess’s.

Celestia grinned, never in her long life would she ever think that a nymph Queen would be so adorable.

A small frown worked it’s way onto her muzzle though, as she wondered why the nymph was all by herself, isolated on a mountain. Concern for the nymph grew, as confusion worked it’s way to the forefront of Celestia’s mind while she thoughtlessly allowed the rabbit to hop about to and fro

There wasn’t much about changelings that Celestia knew, and the very little that was known about them was in a solitary book hidden somewhere in the depths of the Canterlot library, however she knew that nymphs typically were raised with the hive.

She didn’t know why a nymph Queen would be away from her hive and mother. (At least… She assumed there would be a mother. She highly doubt that changelings could ascend to Queen-hood like Cadance had.)

… Maybe she strayed away?

Celestia suddenly grew concerned for the nymph.

Was she lost? Was that why she was here? On the mountain?

Alone?

“Princess?” a voice that Celestia recognized to be one of her guards, Swift Strike, called in a loud voice from across the lake.

“Yes Strike, I’m here.” Celestia called back with a voice amplification spell, raising to her hooves to look over the tall grass toward his direction, finding her pegasus guard standing near the shore and looking around for her. She quickly looked back down to keep a watchful eye on the nymph, who merely glanced up at Celestia before returning to the task of forming a rabbit apparition out of her magic.

“We’re just about finished packing Your Highness. Please return soon, as we’ll be departing for Canterlot momentarily.” he informed her.

Widening her eyes in surprise, Celestia casted her gaze to the sky, noting the position of the sun, nearly half an hour above the horizon. “Thank you Strike.” Celestia nodded in dismissal, a smile on her face as she noticed how close the nymph was to forming a rabbit.

A frown quickly replaced her expression though, as the plan to leave for Canterlot began to register in her mind.

She didn’t want to leave the nymph by herself.

Certainly there was a small chance that her hive would search for her, but what if they couldn’t find her?

What if she ended up staying here on this mountain? All by herself?

Celestia’s frown tensed at the thought of leaving the nymph all by herself…

And even though she was a changeling…

She was just a nymph.

Celestia could not, under good conscious, abandon a baby.

However…

She also could not simply bring back a changeling without a long, explanation that would delve into ancient history and-

A giggle and humming vibration.

Looking down in slight confusion at the new giggling sound, Celestia saw a perfect replica of her magical rabbit, but smaller and raspberry colored, hopping around her own. The nymph beamed up at Celestia with a large smile and wide, anticipating eyes.

“Oh my, that’s an excellent job you’ve done there little one!” Celestia praised, her previous confusion all but forgotten as pride welled up in her chest at how quickly the nymph managed to cast the spell.

The nymph beamed once more under the praise before she, and her rabbit, began jumping and running around the princess.

Celestia giggled again, if it weren’t for the fact that the nymph was a changeling, the princess would have thought that she was just like every other-

She paused, thoughtfully staring at the nymph joyfully running around her.

Perhaps, it is possible to not have to leave the nymph alone at all. While bringing a changeling back to Canterlot would cause an uproar, bringing a filly back would not… At most, it would simply raise many questions.

Questions that could easily be answered.

Though, that made another problem rise.

She knew fully well that changelings could change their appearance to easily blend in with other ponies, however, she wasn’t certain if the nymph could do such a thing just yet.

And she couldn’t very well risk attempting to cast an illusion spell over the nymph if previous experience was to go by.

During the hunts for changelings in the long forgotten past when every pony knew of the changeling races, unicorns had discovered that illusion spells did not work on the creatures, simply washing off of them instead. The information then created tests to see who was a pony and who was changeling.

The nymph tripped over her own hooves, stumbling in front of Celestia and nearly falling face first to the ground were it not for the Princess reaching out and catching her.

“Careful now, we don’t want you sustaining any injuries now.” Celestia said.

The nymph chirped, as though in agreement before she gathered her bearings and steadied herself.

Celestia hummed in thought, nodding to herself in reassurance before lowering her head to the nymph’s level. “Would you like to learn a new trick little one?”

The nymph’s eyes brightened as she chirped.

Celestia smiled with a firm nod, her mind made up. She had to try.

She carefully crafted up the illusion of a little filly based off the nymph. In just a few seconds, a small, lavender coated, unicorn filly with a dark, navy blue and straight cut mane (similar to the nymph’s current cut, though albeit cleaner) with a purple and pink highlight appeared before the nymph.

The nymph buzzed in delight, trotting around the illusion to examine it before dropping her chest to the ground, ready to play with her new friend.

Celestia chuckled, “I’m afraid this is not a new playmate little one.”

The nymph glanced up at Celestia, and wilted a little, her ears and wings drooping in disappointment, making Celestia feel just a little bit guilty.

“However, this is going to be you.” Celestia suggested. “Just until we get back to my chambers in Canterlot at least.”

A tilt of head caused Celestia to falter a bit.

She lightly coughed into a hoof, “Perhaps a demonstration is in order.” She suggested with a small smile.

Concentrating back onto the illusion, she tried to recall how other changelings used to take another pony’s appearance and drop their disguise.

One hive in particular, the Rhithrogena hive, came to mind as Celestia could vividly remember their rather, grotesque, process.

She grimaced in remembrance, it was difficult to forget when one constantly saw it during the hunt for them, in the Crystal Empire.

She glanced over to the illusion, and back to the nymph, feeling a little reluctant on showing a young mind this process. However, she supposed that it was an image she would have to get used to if she took the young Queen back to Canterlot.

Focusing on the illusion, she crafted the image of the little filly seemingly drying up into a husk, before the back began to crack open with a little liquid oozing out and the image of the nymph tried to push herself out of the molten skin was animated. Once successful, the nymph had liquid cling to her new, changeling form and stood proudly before drying up into a husk once again. This time, the pony form began climbing out of the skin.

Casting her gaze back to the nymph, Celestia hoped that the young Queen had understood what Celestia was trying to communicate to her.

Purple, concentrated eyes looked up to her with a wrinkled nose, inflating hopeful expectation in Celestia’s chest.

A confused chirp and tilt of the head caused Celestia to deflate though.

“Princess?” She heard Swift Strike call for her.

“Yes! Just a moment Strike.” Celestia assured, inwardly panicking at what to do with the nymph.

“We’ll depart when you return then.” Swift Strike stated.

“Yes, thank you Strike!”

Bending down, her horn glowing with golden magic once more, Celestia tried to cast an illusion spell over the nymph with one last, desperate attempt.

Of course, the illusion spell did not hold, instead being washed off of the nymph’s body and garnering another chirp of confusion.

Celestia sighed, glancing up to the sky as if it would have the answer to her current predicament.

Perhaps she should allow more space for error and surprised in the future if today was starting in such a fashion.

A small bird garnered her attention, whistling peacefully as it flew across the sky, and right into a rather low cloud that hid it from view.

The action gave her idea, as she turned back to the nymph who was still staring at her in confusion.

Tentatively, Celestia reached out with her magic to gently pick the nymph up, hoping that the young Queen would accept it.

Thankfully the nymph seemed all too happy about being lifted and cradled in the air, happily vibrating her wings as though she were the sole source of her flight, spreading her hooves out in front of her.

Celestia giggled at the display, “Not yet little one, perhaps I can help you take flight some other day. For now though,” She said, dropping her package at the back of her neck, hidden by her billowing mane.

To the Princess’s surprise, the nymph was actually soft, almost… squishy, and her chitin was smooth against Celestia’s fur. “We need you to stay quiet.”

The nymph made a confused warble, tilting her head once again.

“Shhh.” Celestia cooed with an amused smile.

Ears swiveled at the hushing sound, seemingly in recognition. The young Queen ducked her head as her mouth slightly opened, “Shhhh.” She mimicked, folding her wings back as she tightened her forehooves onto Celestia’s neck.

Celestia’s eyes twinkled in delight as she nodded. “Yes.”

“Shhh…” The nymph repeated, quieter this time.

The princess couldn’t help but allow a giggle to escape as she spread her vast wings, flapping them to take to air. “That’s right.” She nodded as she flew over the lake, “And if you’d like, you can take a nap. Hopefully, by the time you wake, we should be back into Canterlot. And then…” The princess trailed off.

And then… what?

She would have a changeling wandering around the castle or confined to a small part?

That wasn’t fair to the young Queen…

“... I suppose I will have to send out a trusted party to search for the hive you belong to.” Celestia mused to herself.

There would have to be careful preparations for that; finding trusted ponies, ensuring that they can guard themselves well enough, providing them with necessary equipment…

She hesitated once again, but shook her head.

There was enough to worry about for now, she’ll contemplate and plan everything out more carefully on a later date.

She glided down in a short circle as she reached her waiting ponies, her three personal guards snapping to a crisp salute as she landed by her personal carriage that had two pegasi already harnessed in wait. Three other carriages meant to carry four ponies at a time were in line behind hers, two of them meant for the other diplomats whom were all chattering amongst themselves to the side, while the last one was meant for her personal guards.

“How was your walk your highness?” Stone Wall, one of the other guards, politely asked in his typical, soft tone.

She hummed, “Quite… interesting to say the least.” It was neither a lie or truth. “But peaceful.”

“I’m glad to hear that your highness.” Stone Wall nodded.

“Your highness, please tell me whether or not this interesting thing was not actually troublesome.” Her last guard, Mirror Scry, exasperated as she magically levitated a pocket watch out. “With all due respect your highness, but you said that about our trip to Prance, which we all know that it was anything but. And now, it seems, that this interesting thing has made us a four minutes late to our trip back to Canterlot!” She said, magically tapping the face of her watch to emphasize the time.

Celestia chuckled, albeit nervously as she became conscious of the nymph on the back of her neck. “Then I suggest we be on our way then. We would not want to delay our trip any longer.”

Scry slightly narrowed her eyes at Celestia in suspicion, who merely smiled in return.

“I suppose we should.” Mirror Scry agreed before turning around to help the other diplomats get situated with a loud grumble and some muttering that would usually amuse Celestia though failed to through her worry. (Although, it still successfully did so with the other two guards if the quirk of their lips were anything to go by.)

Swift Strike saluted to her once more before turning to help the unicorn guard.

Instead, the Princess breathed a silent sigh of relief.

So far so good.

Until she heard a light giggle behind her ears, and a loud grumble that was all too similar to Scry’s along with muttered gibberish that sounded more like a warble.

Thankfully, she and Swift Strike was far out of earshot to hear the otherwise amusing imitation, but Stone Wall was not.

Celestia glanced over to him in question, finding him standing still with a stoic expression.

A minuscule twitch at the corner of his mouth was all Celestia needed to know he heard it though.

“Your Highness?” Stone Wall finally voiced out in a near whisper with his deep voice.

“Yes guardsman?” Celestia answered.

“Can I safely assume that this interesting thing will be joining us on the trip back to Canterlot?” He asked

“Perhaps.”

“I see.” He said with a small nod before stepping to the side of the carriage and bowing as a gesture for her to get on.

Celestia inwardly sighed in relief, thankful for how Stone Wall was the most tolerant of her whims, so long as they did not prove to be dangerous.

However, it would seem that he knew when to be cautious, depending on her words of choice. Interesting did not seem to fall under the category.

Regardless, he trusted her enough to explain herself when she felt ready to which she was grateful for.

She still wasn’t sure as to how she would explain having a changeling, and she certainly did not wish to explain herself in front of the other ponies.

Soon enough, they all took off and were well on their way to Canterlot without any further trouble despite Celestia feeling just a bit antsy, fidgeting here and there, though the nymph seemed to have taken to sleeping for most of the trip.

It wasn’t until three hours later, when they were just a few minutes away from landing, did Celestia feel more anxious.

She really should have anticipated that the nymph, being so young, would start feeling restless after waking.

“Shh.” She whispered for the fourth time in as many minutes, ceasing the low buzz of the nymph’s wings and shuffling at the back of her neck for a second. “I promise we’re almost there, just a few minutes.” She said with a hinted tone of urgency.

The nymph grumbled, sounding very much like Mirror Scry once again and making Celestia giggle before stamping her amusement down. She had to be stern, they could not afford getting caught.

“I know you want to move around, but not just yet little one.” Celestia said, pressure weighing down at the back of her mind. She wanted nothing more than to tell the pegasus pulling the carriage to hasten their flight, though knew that she could not. “Just a few more minutes.”

A low buzz sounded with the grumble, showing the young Queen’s immense displeasure. To Celestia’s horror though, the nymph began shuffling about in a move to climb off of her.

“No no, not yet.” Celestia tried in a bit of a panic, her horn lighting up to grab hold of the nymph and position her back.

The buzzing got louder, the vibration of her wings beating harshly as the nymph gave a low growl with a snort of air, not all too different than from how Celestia had initially greeted her, at being handled in such a way.

“I know, I know,” Celestia quickly tried to placate in hushed whispers, “But you need to stay hidden.”

“Is everything alright your highness?” Swift Strike asked from the carriage flying a few meters away while the other carriages flew quite a distance ahead as a means for her privacy.

“Yes.” Celestia said after a bit of a struggle, shuffling her wings up to hold the nymph who had already began to climb down

Mirror Scry narrowed her eyes in suspicion as Swift Strike only grew more concerned at her shuffling while the nymph began to try to slide off of Celestia’s wing, which was thankfully the one out of view from her guards.

She winced though, when a few of her feathers were tugged out of place.

“Are you certain you are alright?” Swift asked once more upon noticing her grimace.

“Yes,” She said in a false cheery voice, secretly annoyed at having her attention be pulled away from the young Queen as she magicked the nymph back into position behind her neck.

This elicited the nymph to loudly grumble and warble in gibberish with an irate buzz, indefinitely attracting her guards’ attention as Scry lightly blushed in indignation.

It was hard not to distinguish that the grumbles took after her own.

“What is it that you’re hiding your highness?” Scry asked in accusation

Celestia paused, “Something… interesting of sorts.” She tried in an attempt to delay their investigation as the nymph once again tried to climb off her wing

Scry narrowed her eyes even further before nudging Swift Strike, saying a few words only the three guards could hear.

Swift Strike gave a quick glance over to Celestia in worry, though a firm nod from Scry made him sigh before he stepped off the carriage, catching wind as he spread his wings and flew over to Celestia despite the fact that they were just about to land.

“My apologies your highness, I just need to check what it is that you’re hiding to ensure that it won’t be… troublesome.” Swift Strike said in a low tone as he hovered in front of the Princess.

Celestia for her part, hummed as she expanded her wings and furled them upward to hide the nymph. “I suppose you could.” She said as the young Queen decided to climb up the feathery wall.

Swift Strike continued hovering, nervously fidgeting with his hooves. “Um… Your highness? Your wings if you would.”

Celestia inwardly sighed, there was no use in stalling any longer.

She could certainly take the nymph and teleport away, the castle was close enough for her to reach, but previous experience from a few centuries ago told her that only made things worse.

So instead, she looked right into Swift Strike’s eyes, “Please understand that I was going to tell you three as soon as I could.” She said with a bit of remorse, fear for the nymph gripping at her heart as she lowered her wings and causing Strike to tense and be on guard.

She didn’t have to lower her wings by much though, as the nymph had nearly achieved her climb, her head peeking out from over her appendage with a chirp of triumph.

Upon meeting Strike’s gaze though, the nymph immediately squeaked in fright as she ducked back behind Celestia’s wing.

Celestia merely, though albeit hesitantly as she wanted nothing more than to keep the nymph hidden from view, folded her wings back to her side, completely revealing the young Queen who had curled up into a ball on Celestia’s back, bringing hooves up to cover her face.

Young minds alike seemed to have similar thoughts when coming in face with something scary. If they could not see it, then it cannot see them.

A peek through a hole in her hoof though, showed the nymph that Strike was still indeed hovering by with wide eyes.

A low, shrill chirp rumbled into the air like a whimper as the nymph scrunched her eyes tighter, flattening her ears to her head while she nosed her way under the closest translucent, purple wing.

“What is it?” Strike asked in curiousity, hovering a bit closer.

Celestia glanced behind her, feeling pity for the nymph who tried to make itself appear smaller, before looking back over to the other two guards though, she found them trying to take a closer look at what it was that she and Swift Strike was talking about. “I’ll tell you about her later with the other two. For now though, I simply ask that you trust me when I say she’s not dangerous.” She paused, “As dangerous as a nymph can be at least.”

“A what?” Strike asked in confusion.

“A foal.” Celestia offered instead.

At the word, Strike seemingly melted as he came a bit closer to the nymph. Remembering himself, he glanced over to Celestia with hopeful eyes. “May I?” He asked.

Celestia nodded, remembering how much Swift Strike adored foals and was curious in seeing how he would react with a different species.

Strike leaned in a bit closer, examining the nymph who was still curled up in a ball, “Hello.” He tried in a soft tone with a smile, “I’m sorry for scaring you. I’m Swift Strike.” He said, not at all minding the difference of race.

The nymph’s ear flickered a bit, before she tentatively lifted her head from under a wing to get a better look to examine the pegasus guard in interest.

Swift Strike merely grinned in delight, showing all of his teeth as he cooed at the nymph, “Does it have a name? I wouldn’t want to keep calling it a nymph.”

“She,” Celestia pointedly corrected, “does not have a name that I know of.”

Though, he had a point.

The nymph shared Celestia’s offense toward herself for being called an object, by huffing in annoyance, turning her head away from Swift Strike as though not bothering to look at him.

“Aw, don’t be like that.” Strike said with a small pout, “I’m sorry little miss. Forgive me?”

Celestia silently approved of Strike’s apology, though the nymph was more open about it as she turned back to the guard with a beam and a happy buzz, loosening up her form as she shuffled up to straighten herself.

The nymph quickly reached up with a hoof and lightly patted Strike on the nose, giggling at the action.

Strike beamed at her, a large smile engulfing his face, once again showing all of his teeth though this time, his dimples showed even through the royal guard’s enchanted armor that allowed them all to look the same, something that never ceased to amuse Celestia, before it faltered a bit. Leaning back, he looked at the Princess with concern. “Your highness, how are you going to bring her back to the castle? The sight of her will indefinitely cause confusion, or even concern from the more... xenophobic nobles.”

“I know,” The Princess sighed, “My hope was to secretly bring her back to my chambers by hiding her in my mane. However the ride to Canterlot has proven that it would prove most difficult, and resulted in failure. As you are no doubt aware.”

Strike nodded in understanding, “If I may, your highness, but perhaps Mirror Scrye, Stone Wall, and I can help you with that. It is one our duties after all.” He said with a tentative grin.

Celestia paused, considering the thought and nodded. “I’d appreciate it.” She said, “Thank you Swift Strike.” She sighed with relief.

“Of course your highness.” Swift Strike bowed his head before excusing himself to fly back to his other two companions to inform them of the nymph’s existence and of their plan as the carriages began to descend for landing.

Celestia sighed once more, feeling a burdensome weight lift off her chest before craning her neck around to the nymph, who merely chirped with a head tilt at the attention.

“Perhaps Mirror Scrye was correct about her assumption.” Celestia mused to the nymph.

The young Queen merely grinned, showing off her baby fangs and creating dimples at her cheeks, eliciting a light chuckle from Celestia as she began to notice a pattern.

“You enjoy copying us don’t you little one?” She playfully accused. She should have realized it earlier, considering how changelings had to mimic pony behavior as best as they could in order to blend in…

Or to replace a pony.

A low buzz sounded as the nymph tilted her head and chirped, not knowing what it was that Celestia was talking about.

Celestia chuckled, “Nevermind. Though I’m sorry to say that it’s time for you to hide once again.” She said taking hold of the nymph in her magic once more to shuffle her back up Celestia’s neck to hide under her mane once again, just as the carriage landed and her guards trotted up to her.

The familiar sounds of the nymph mimicking Mirror Scrye’s grumbling and muttering reached Celestia’s ear, causing her to giggle in amusement as she felt the young Queen tighten her hold on Celestia’s neck regardless.

The actual pony that the nymph was mimicking, snorted a puff of air in slight annoyance as Swift Strike quietly snickered, “How rude.” Scrye sniffed, though it was clear that she did not take offense. “I certainly hope that you teach this, nymph, some manners Princess.” The unicorn guard stated in a low tone, to ensure no other pony heard.

“I can certainly try,” Celestia nodded in amusement. “However it might prove to be a bit difficult. I'll provide more information pertaining to her when we can get a private moment.”

“We’d appreciate it your highness.” Stone Wall nodded, just as some of the accompanying diplomats trotted up to her and gave a low bow.

“Princess, it was an honor to work with you on the trip to Prance.” One of them said.

“Though, we were hoping to discuss some details in regards to-”

“Perhaps at a later date,” Celestia interrupted, “The trip has unexpectedly taken its toll on me, and I wish to return to my chambers to rest.”

“But-” the pony tried to protest before Stone Wall stepped in between the two.

“The Princess wishes to rest.” He slowly said, using his deep voice, height, and stoic demeanor to make him look rather imposing.

It seemed to have worked as the pony backed off and bowed, “Of course. I hope you rest well your highness.”

“Thank you.” Celestia smiled before trotting off, her guards taking their usual positions with Stone Wall and Swift Strike at her sides and Mirror Scrye behind.

Her guards were doing their job well for the duration of their trip to her chambers, intervening or stepping between her and any other noble pony that wished to speak to her before shooing them away. Mirror Scrye, of course, had a notebook levitated out to write down any important ponies that Celestia had promised to reschedule a meeting with.

There were a few times, when the nymph would make a fuss while they were talking, however Swift Strike had easily passed it off by taking credit for whatever sounds were made. Something, he found to his slight dismay, that the nobles accepted rather easily.

However, as more and more ponies came up to her and were dismissed, Celestia could not help but bite the inside of her cheek with worry as she came to a slow realization.

This nymph, was not a pony.

She knew this, of course she did.

And while she had all intention on finding the hive the nymph belonged to and return her back, the idea of caring for the young Queen seemed to have slipped Celestia’s mind.

During all her years of living, Princess Celestia had learned to have a certain level of expectancy when it came to foals.

No matter what tribe, there was always a little trouble that they went through their early years of life; Earth ponies being unable to control their strength relating to nature or physical, Pegasi would misuse their wings or accidentally create some unintended weather with just a cloud, Unicorns made for unpredictable bursts of magic… All was simply natural given the nature of foals. A mishap only need for pulling the foal away, possibly a stern talking to or bout of refusal, or even some encouragement and praise depending.

If the foal cried or whined, some comforting might be due, feeding, bathing, or entertainment.

Certainly, it had been a while since Celestia had handled a foal, but experience of living allowed for her this level of expectancy.

This failed her however, as she pondered; Were nymphs the same? What about newborn Changeling Queens?

She knew that changelings fed on the love of ponies, but how would she even go about feeding the nymph? Do they eat anything else?

Do they take baths? Would the nymph’s chitin allow for the same shampoo ponies use?

The nymph certainly showed some talent for magic, but was there changeling magic that Celestia should worry about? Other than their use of being able to change their form?

Then there was rooming to be concerned about.

While her chambers were spacious, or ostentatious rather, it certainly would not do to keep the nymph secluded in the room.

Foals need space to run around and do, well, foal-like things!

And the Princess did not wish to leave the nymph all by herself in her room for long hours while Celestia had her royal duties to attend to. Yes, it might be the safest place to hide a nymph, it was also rather…

Lonely.

Pressure and light sweat began to build at the back of Celestia’s neck, the ramifications of bringing the nymph back with her began to build, along with the responsibilities that were previously not realized from her sudden decision to do so.

She did not regret this choice, as she couldn’t find it in herself to simply abandon the nymph, but perhaps she should have thought about this more thoroughly before it had all decided to pile on her at this moment.

She could not help though, but to think that it would be easier if she simply knew how to at least disguise the changeling.

If the nymph could look like a filly, then at least she would have a bit more freedom to roam around and Celestia could provide a more suitable excuse rather than having to constantly fret and worry about in secret.

“Aunt Celestia.” A recognizable voice called just before Celestia and her guards were about to exit the somewhat busy main hall.

Celestia inwardly sighed before putting up a small, polite smile on her face before turning around. “Good morning Aristo,” She greeted as warmly as possible to the stallion, wanting nothing more than skip the pleasantries and to leave immediately. However, she had an obligation to participate in small talk with her nephews, even if the titles were just a formality. “And a good morning to you Blueblood.” She smiled, a bit more genuinely, to the young colt.

“Good morning Auntie.” Blueblood greeted.

“I hope that your trip to Prance went well.” Aristo said.

“It was rather interesting.” Celestia mused, causing a quiet snort from Mirror Scrye.

She could feel the nymph begin to shuffle in place, feeling restless once more it would seem. Added points of pressure began to form and indicated that the nymph was trying to stand. A quick fluff of her wings though, seemed enough to cause her to lose balance and lie back down. Though Celestia sent a silent apology to the nymph for making her fall into the sweat that Celestia seemed to be heavily perspiring without her knowing.

Odd, as she couldn’t feel the sensation of it happening. Nonetheless, she noted, with a grimace, the moistness on the back of her neck.

“That’s good.” Aristo nodded.

“And how was yours to Vanhoover?” Celestia politely asked, continuing the small talk despite wishing for it to cease.

“Quaint. My son and I enjoyed ourselves.” Aristo smiled down at Blueblood who seemed to hold his head up high and puffed his chest out, as though preening under the attention. The sight made Celestia smile at the display. “I would not mind visiting again, granted that it occurs around the same time of the year. Otherwise I don’t believe I would be able to stand the constant chill of the area.”

“And the talks?” Celestia asked, fluffing her wings once more the moment she felt another shuffle on her neck that was becoming increasingly uncomfortable. Though, she was pleasantly surprised to find that the wetness did not seem to grow or spread.

“Smooth.” Aristo nodded, “Though, I may have promised the Prime Minister that you would follow up on our agreements as soon as you returned from your trip to Prance. He was most insistent on your review.”

Celestia inwardly groaned at having a responsibility be promised on her behalf, though outwardly only tightened her smile. “Thank you for informing me Aristo, I’ll be certain to get to it as soon as I-”

Warbled grumbling rang into the air as Celestia felt the nymph shuffle a bit more harshly on the back of her neck, spreading the moist patch a bit further into her fur.

Aristo was briefly shocked before he tensely frowned as he looked up at Celestia with disapproval while Blueblood’s eyes widened at his aunt. Never before had she outwardly displayed any form of annoyance.

“What was that?” Aristo asked with slight offense, his tone raising and catching the attention of other passing nobles and castle employees.

“Nothing you need to worry about,” Celestia said as she subtly tried to shuffle backwards in an attempt to get away.

Aristo merely took a step forward, “If you find fault about my performance, then please do speak. By all means, do not hesitate on my behalf.”

“I assure you there is nothing that needs be said.” Celestia tried placating just as she felt the pressure of the nymph turn to four, an indication of the young Changeling now standing. Celestia fluffed her wings out in hopes to get the nymph to lose her balance and fall back down over her neck.

Swift Strike hurriedly stepped in between the two royal members, a nervous grin on his face. “I’m sure you just heard my stomach growl, Prince Aristocrat.” He began, as Celestia began to shuffle her shoulders and neck this time, though the nymph refused to lay back down. “I haven’t had breakfast yet you see, and it’s been making weird noises all morning.”

“I am certain, guardsman, that the sound I heard was not that of a stomach.” Aristo enunciated.

“Then why do other ponies believe it?” Swift Strike muttered to himself before remembering where he was, “I mean-”

Aristo merely pushed Swift Strike to the side to come as closely face to face with Celestia, “Princess, if you find the perfomance in my duties to be lacking, then you only need to say as such in private. There is no reason for you to make such perturbed gestures to-”

The feeling of the nymph shaking herself on Celestia’s back made her blood run cold, the sound of a light humming vibration interrupted Aristo and caught the attention of any nearby pony.

A slip of a hoof made Celestia reflexively raise a wing to catch the nymph, but it would seem that she was just a split second too late as she felt the weight shift off to the side.

In all but a few seconds, the weight was gone, and instead the familiar lavender color ball had rolled off her, onto the ground, and only stopped face first by her right forehoof.

Undeterred, the nymph pushed herself up and shook her whole body, causing a very light and thin mist to spray off of her…

Coat and mane…

The nymph, now disguised as the little filly that Celestia had conjured earlier that morning, proudly stood by Celestia’s side with her head held high as though preening under all the shocked attention.

Which she quickly grew uncomfortable with the moment she opened her eyes, squeaking in fear as her eyes bugged out at all the eyes on her before ducking behind Celestia’s leg.

It was then that Celestia realize how the disguise was not perfect as the nymph seemed to have left her four, translucent purple and bug-like wings on display.

Celestia snapped a wing out, covering most of the nymph to the best of her ability before anypony could notice.

“I’m sorry Aristo,” the princess began in a smooth tone, “But it has been a rather trying trip and as you can see, I have a young filly in my company, one who has become rather grumpy it would seem.” She said with an arched brow toward the nymph.

This nymph was most certainly trying to give her a heart attack, she was sure of it.

The young Queen merely looked up before quickly nosing her way further into Celestia’s wing.

“I hope you understand my urgency to retreat back to my chambers.” Celestia finished, casting her attention back to Aristo.

“I-” he stuttered, rapidly glancing back between the disguised nymph and Celestia, before settling into a bow. It was evident he, and the other surrounding nobles, had questions for her, but the narrowed gaze on her face told them all that this was not the time. “Of course.” He said.

“Thank you,” Celestia sighed with relief before turning with her guards and lightly nudging the nymph with her wing to walk and move around as she very much wished for. “Come along now…”

She hesitated, knowing that a name was needed for the nobles to grab hold of and to pass around.

The image of the nymph’s magic from early morning flashed through Celestia’s mind, allowing her to decide on the nymph’s temporary name.

“Twilight Sparkle.” Celestia settled on, feeling rather pleased with the name if the smile was anything to go by. “Let’s get you settled in shall we?”

Twilight grinned, showing off her dimples and fangs that she had left during her change, and making Celestia chuckle.

This was only temporary, Celestia told herself, just until she could find and return the young Queen back to her hive.

Miles away though, back at the mountain of which they came from, the sounds of tearful wailing and rage rang about in the otherwise peaceful location. A broken, mossy, wet cocoon was clung onto as a mother cried for her lost daughter, the name scratching against her throat and burning against her chest.

Tears of mourn and confusion were shed, rippling across the lake water.

A low, watery buzz warbled into the air as a small swarm took to the sky with sad eyes and wilted ears before they all scattered in search of the young, Changeling Queen.

Author's Note

I have to say, that the interest in this fic has been a pleasant surprise! So thank you everyone for taking the time to read this! :twilightblush: I sincerely hope that you all enjoyed this chapter.

Also, I'm sorry I couldn't mention anything about Luna's return in this chapter, :fluttershysad: It felt like there was already too much information for the first chapter. I hope you all understand and are patient as I will mention her as soon as I can!

Chapter 2: A Basic Guide to a Nymph's Basic Needs

Were Celestia not so concerned for Twilight’s well-being, she would have found the scrunched up expression on the nymph’s face to be just as adorable as it was yesterday. However, the Princess could not help but peer over her cup of tea at the young Queen with anticipation as they sat in Celestia’s private dining quarters.

Twilight was warily sniffing and poking at the plate of hayfries and bowl of alphabet carrot soup served before her as the Princess and her guards watched closely with bated breath.

Only to wilt when Twilight blanched at the food and push her plate away with a low buzz while she leaned away from it.

“I don’t understand, my research indicates that these are the most popular foods foals in her age group find enjoyable.” Mirror Scry frowned, levitating a few notebooks out and flipping through the pages.

Twilight decided to further disprove the unicorn guard’s research by climbing off her cushion, trotting over to Celestia’s much bigger cushion, and clumsily forcing her way under Celestia’s wing via nuzzingly.

After yesterday’s event of Celestia hiding Twilight’s incomplete change to mimic pony form, it seemed as though the nymph enjoyed being under her wing. So much so, that even after being put into a new bed that Celestia had ordered for her, Twilight had snuck into Celestia’s at one point during the night to dive under her wing and use it as a blanket.

Which made for an interesting morning when Celestia woke to find herself laying on her side, and with a lump curled on top of her, comfortably wrapped under her wing with just a nose peeking out.

She found that she strangely did not mind it too much. Especially considering how she was the only pony that Twilight knew and was comfortable with, it was only logical that the nymph would seek comfort from the Princess.

However, that was an entirely different case than the current predicament.

Celestia frowned, taking the soup bowl and spoon in a magical grasp as she lowered her tea cup. Ladling a little bit of the soup and lightly blowing on it, she tried to float the spoon over to Twilight’s face when it was sufficiently cooled, “What’s wrong? You don’t like it?”

Twilight merely scrunched up her face even further, turning astutely away from the threatening spoon of carrot soup letters, and pressing herself further into Celestia’s wing as far as she could.

“Carrot soup is very delicious though.” Celestia said, lifting the spoon up to herself, “I myself enjoy partaking it every so often.” To prove her statement, she daintily sipped the soup and exaggerated a hum of appreciation.

Twilight however, like yesterday when they served an array of foods for her to try, did not look convinced as her scrunched up expression remained while staring up at Celestia.

The Princess merely sighed, floating the soup bowl back down onto the table before taking a slice of canteloupe. “How about this instead? It’s good for you.” She sang, even giving the slice of fruit an enticing little shake.

It seemed enough to elicit Twilight’s curiosity, as she leaned forward to give the fruit a quick sniff.

Though she immediately turned away with a huff.

“Please, you must eat something Twilight.” Celestia frowned, “You haven't eaten anything since we’ve arrived yesterday.”

Almost immediately upon their return to Canterlot, Celestia had requested lunch to be served in the dining area that was adjacent to her bedroom, (which she had not frequented for its’ proper usage and instead, ate at her work desk).

She had also sent word to chef asking if they could serve something appropriate for little fillies. To answer, the chef had sent a whole feast fit for the entirety of the royal guards while confessing that he had no idea what little fillies were interested in cuisine wise, as his specialty relied on fine dining. It mattered little though as Twilight was not interested in any of the food to Celestia’s great concern.

The nymph had spat her food out when trying a dish of asparagus, drizzled in some sort of grand vinaigrette. Though Celestia felt as though she should have known better than making Twilight try something most foals ventured away from. Knowing better the second time, the Princess had opted for something a little easier for Twilight’s apparently picky taste buds. Instead, she was met with Twilight wiping her tongue after being served mashed sweet potatoes.

After nearly two hours of trying to get Twilight to eat, Celestia had given up. She sent the food away to be served as leftovers instead, hoping that dinner would be better and that Twilight would have worked up an appetite.

To no avail though. Twilight still did not look hungry, and was seemingly bound with an endless amount of energy to refuse any sort of food. If anything, she seemed more cautious as she poked and prodded at every dish placed in front of her.

Celestia feared that it would only be a matter of time until Twilight attempted to feed on somepony, draining them of their love and leaving them to illness.

The Princess hoped to find some other source of food before then, and to prevent Twilight of getting to a point of near starvation.

Though, the young changeling Queen merely grinned up at Celestia, showing off her dimples in perfect contentment, ignorant of Celestia’s worries.

“Perhaps we’ll have better luck when I return with that book about Changelings, your highness.” Mirror Scry suggested, “Hopefully it’ll have an answer to other sources of food that can be provided.”

Celestia sighed, “That would be most helpful, thank you.” She paused, staring down at Twilight in thought as the Princess took a sip of her morning tea. “And if you could, would you mind picking up a few foal books for her?”

Scry’s eyes brightened at that, “But of course!” She exclaimed with a nod. “I’m certain I can compile a list of books that would be most beneficial and entertaining to foals of her age group. Oh! Perhaps I should obtain a few books on basic magic spells? She already is quite exceptional with that luminesce spell you showed her, so I’m certain that she’ll be able to perform-”

Swift Strike snorted, “You can’t be serious Scry. No foal wants to be cooped up studying. The little miss is at the age where she needs to go out and waste energy.”

Mirror Scry turned her head with a small scowl, “Speak for yourself. I was more than happy to stay inside and be read to at her age.” She stated, levitating a pocket watch out to check the time. “Your Highness, I’m sorry to say but it’s time for you to begin morning court.”

Celestia frowned, glancing down at Twilight as a bit of anxiety rose. She didn’t want to leave the nymph Queen just yet.

“Please don’t worry your highness, and just continue on with your duties for the day. I’ll be sure to take care of her.” Mirror Scry assured.

Despite her guard’s words, Celestia could not help but feel reluctant and apprehensive regardless.

It was only just yesterday that her guards had learned of the existence of Changelings, and while she was relieved to find them accepting of Twilight and of Celestia’s decision to search for the young Queen’s hive, she was not comfortable leaving Twilight with just one guard.

However, her guards had a point when mentioning that they could only rotate their shifts to individually watch Twilight while the other two stayed with Celestia; as protocol demanded, requiring at least two of her personal guards to accompany her at all times, while four other standard royal guards would already be waiting to stand guard.

Although, if she were being completely honest, she couldn’t help but feel a sort of emptiness at having her usual number of personal guard surrounding her cut by half.

It wasn’t that she felt less safe, but one grows accustomed to having a certain number of familiar faces accompanying her for most of the day.

Having to grow used to the absence of her fourth guard, Taut String, after her request for maternity leave (which Celestia was overjoyed to hear about) had been… an interesting adaptation.

Now, she supposed she would have to get used to having only two familiar presences to accompany her throughout her royal duties. Besides, were Taut String still on duty, Celestia would have assigned her to accompany Mirror Scry to watch Twilight regardless.

And she could not neglect her duties as Princess, even if she wanted nothing more than to be completely focused on the young Queen.

So she had no choice but to agree with her guard’s suggestion of rotating shifts to look after Twilight, ensuring that she had at least one pony watching over her.

Evidently, they agreed that it would be easiest if Mirror Scry watched over Twilight for the day while she went to search for the book on Changelings.

“Yes… Of course.” Celestia nodded as she got up, eliciting Twilight to follow her movements with an eager look. “And if anything happens or if you come across any problems-”

“Then I’ll be sure to handle it.” Mirror Scry said as they all walked with the Princess to her bed chambers adjacent to her dining quarters.

Celestia hesitated, “Yes… Of course.” she repeated, her steps slowing as they crossed her room which was far too large for one pony (even for one her size) and far too simple. Spartan.

Empty.

The only noteworthy items that took up space were; a large nearly circular bed with light blue sheets and numerous cushions of white, gold, and light pink centered in the room, a work desk at the far right corner, and a large book case filled with political and cultural literature. There were about a dozen knick knacks here and there, some were gifts that had accumulated over the years, others were small tokens of the few friends that Celestia had made.

All organized, uniformed, and proudly shown individually.

Now, on the far left corner opposite of her desk, there was a small semi circle bed with dark purple sheets and white pillows, brought in yesterday for Twilight at Celestia’s request.

Though, the area still remained barren.

Perhaps some shopping was needed, it would not do to have nothing around to entertain the nymph.

Twilight seemed to be content with her current levels of joy at the moment though, by weaving through Celestia’s long legs and attempting to keep up.

Only to run face first into Celestia’s foreleg as they came to a stop, causing her to quickly backpedal with a shake of a head.

“Oh my,” Celestia lightly gasped in concern, taking a few steps back and lifting the same leg up as she craned her neck down to be at eye level with Twilight. “Are you okay?”

Twilight brought a hoof up, rubbing her face for a moment before grinning up at Celestia, showing off her well-being.

Celestia lightly laughed.

Twilight really was adorable.

That only made the princess frown though, as she knew that time was pressing her to return to her duties.

“I’m sorry Twilight, but I need to perform my duties now. I’ll be back for dinner though okay? Mirror Scry will take care of you until then, so try not to misbehave.”

Twilight merely tilted her head in confusion, though happily chirped regardless.

Celestia hesitantly smiled, glancing up to Mirror Scry with a small nod before turning around and opening her doors. Stone Wall and Swift Strike immediately flanked her as she walked out, though quickly noted that Celestia was glancing back at Twilight.

Who was already trying to happily trot after her.

Until Mirror Scry held a hoof out to stop her, “My apologies little miss,” She said, using the title that Swift Strike had bestowed upon Twilight. “But you’re going to have to wait until the Princess comes back later in the evening.”

Twilight blinked, slowly turning her attention from the unicorn guard over to Celestia who had stopped in the doorway. The young Queen decided to try to take another step toward her anyway.

Only for Mirror Scry to press her hoof against Twilight a little more firmly, causing the nymph to grumble and warble in annoyance as her two front wings sprayed outward and bristled as she glared at the guard.

Scry’s ears splayed back over her helmet as she could hear Celestia and Swift Strike chuckle to themselves while Stone Wall politely coughed.

“Now Twilight, don’t be rude.” Celestia said, turning around and craning her neck down. “I’ll only be away until the evening.”

Twilight blinked again, knitting her brows in contemplation as her pupils shifted back and forth between Celestia’s eyes. “.... e-v-ing?” Twilight mistakenly sounded out.

Celestia beamed.

She knew that changelings, as a species, had exceptional learning rates when it came to language for some reason. She had witnessed it first hand during negotiations for a cease fire with two hive queens, Queen Apis of the Apini hive, and Queen Luciolinae (who had insisted on being called Linae for short) of the Lampyridae hive.

Prior to the talks, it was evident that the Apini Hive had only spoke in Prench at the time, while the Lampyridae hive spoke Canternese. It also seemed like that changelings had their own language as the two were able to communicate with each other outside the pony languages.

Regardless, they somehow understood what every pony was talking about regardless of a language barrier, (like how Twilight seemed to have an idea of what Celestia was talking about for the most part) and managed to convey a request without a translator. After indulging them on their request to stay for a day though, both queens and a few of their changelings suddenly became semi-fluent in Equish.

So Celestia knew that language would not be too much of a problem for Twilight.

It didn’t lessen the amount of joy in her heart upon hearing Twilight speak for the first time though.

“Yes, the evening.” Celestia nodded, making sure to carefully enunciate the time. “That’s when the sun will be down.”

Twilight glanced out the window before pulling her attention back to Celestia and pointing her hoof toward it. “Eve-ing?” She said more than asked, as though demanding that Celestia lower the sun now, a detail that she must have learned after witnessing Celestia raise the sun and lower it yesterday.

Celestia seemed to understand what the nymph was conveying and laughed, shaking her head. “I can’t do that just yet Twilight. At a later time.” Celestia noticed a floating pocket watch in her peripheral to indicate the time and inwardly sighed. “I have to go now. I’ll see you in the evening Twilight.” She said, carefully backing out of the doorway while keeping her attention on Twilight, as though to make sure the nymph didn’t follow.

“E-ven-ing.” Twilight repeated, crouching her chest to the ground as she looked up at Celestia with expectancy and garnering endeared giggles.

“Yes, we can play in the evening.” Celestia agreed easily, “Bye bye.” She sang, waving a hoof toward Twilight, slowly magicking the doors to close.

Confused, Twilight straightened up and mimicked Celestia’s action with a head tilt until the doors shut.

Celestia sighed, feeling a little guilty for having to trick the nymph like that in order to leave. She was already a few minutes behind schedule as is though, and she feared that if she indulged the nymph anymore then she would no doubt call for the rest of the day off.

“Right then,” The Princess nodded as she and her guards turned to start their way down the hall, “We can continue on our discussion from yesterday in regards to starting a search for Twilight’s hive as we make way to court.” She informed the two. “One of you can fill Mirror Scry in when we return.”

Swift Strike nodded, “That’s fi-”

A loud warbled buzz shrilled into the air along with a rumbled chirp, interrupting Swift Strike and causing Celestia to snap her head toward her closed bed chambers in concern.

The sound persisted even after a minute, and Celestia nearly turned around as worry filled her at Twilight’s distress.

“Your highness,” Stone Wall quietly said, jostling Celestia’s attention. “Mirror Scry will take care of her.”

“I-” Celestia’s eyes flitted over to the doors of her chambers, Twilight’s crying still crooning past the barriers, before hesitantly nodding. “Y-yes. Right. Of course.” She said, mostly to assure herself with a nod, before she slowly returned to her trot down the hallway.

She continued casting fleeting glances back to her chambers though, as they got further and further away from the dimming sounds of crying.

It wasn't until they reached the stairs at the end of the hallway, did the sounds of dismay cease, and Celestia let go of a relieved breath she didn't even realize she was holding.

“Fifty bits says Scry is pulling her mane out by the end of the day.” Swift Strike said, glancing to his co-guard.

“Eighty bits.” Stone Wall said coolly with his face stoic as ever, “Twilight likes her by today’s end.”

“Ha! The little miss? A fo- nymph? Taking to uptight, bookish, no-fun-allowed Scry?” Swift Strike rhetorically asked as they descended the spiraling staircase, “You’re on.”

Celestia gave a suffering sigh. She was aware that her personal guards enjoyed making bets with each other as a means to entertain themselves, there wasn’t much to do when one was required to be on the job nearly 24/7. And while she was typically amused by their bets, even adding her two bits here and there, she wasn’t certain how to feel about them doing so on the nymph that she had taken responsibility for.

“Guards.” She called, causing them to snap back to attention, “What can you recall about what I’ve told you about Changelings yesterday?”

The two were silent for a moment, a short lull in the air that was usually filled by Mirror Scry’s generously wordy answer filling the space between them until Swift Strike coughed awkwardly.

“Not much is known about them, your highness.” Stone Wall filled in, beginning to summarise the short history lecture Celestia had provided to them yesterday when they finally got a private moment. “They feed on the love of ponies and maybe other races in order to survive, but in turn make their hosts immensely physically weak and mentally strained. There have been some cases where ponies had been bedridden for life, unknowing of the world around them.”

“W-Which is why the hunts for them began, despite most of the hives going into hiding.” Swift Strike chimed in, but paused in confusion. “I don’t get it though. You said that the changelings had already gone into hiding before the hunts for them began?”

“Truthfully, I’m not certain as to what drove the Changelings into hiding the first place,” Celestia confessed, “I know that hunts began when two of the hives had started attacking ponies again.” She hesitated for a moment, her thoughts returning to Twilight in concern. The idea of her ponies… hunting for a nymph as young as Twilight made the hairs on the back of Celestia’s neck stand.

She shook her head, casting her mind from such thoughts before continuing on, “You two, and Mirror Scry for that matter, are no doubt aware of the Crystal Empire, the land of which Princess Cadance is meant to rule over.” She said, knowing such information was privy to those she could trust.

The two nodded.

“Before the disappearance of the Crystal Empire, the Crystal Ponies had been continuously and routinely attacked by the seven Changeling Hives, as the empire had an abundance of love. Seemingly one day, for seemingly no reason, the attacks had come to a halt.” Celestia said with a reminiscent tone, “The empire was at peace for a century or two until it was once again attacked by the Rhithrogena hive.”

The image of the changelings shifting their form by breaking from the back of a pony husk flashed in her mind, causing her to shudder for a moment.

She was gladdened to find that Twilight did not have to change form in such a manner.

“The empire was familiar with dealing with changelings, however at the time, the Princess was pregnant with Cadance and the Prince was… zealous in his protectiveness. So the hunts began.” Celestia solemnly confessed, her horn glowing as she discreetly casted a small sound barrier spell around her and the guards to keep their conversation to themselves before they reached the bottom of the stairs. “The hive was driven to extinction after the… execution of the Queen, and the Empire found peace…. Until Sombra came. However that is not the subject matter at hoof.” She said dismissively.

“After the disappearance of the Crystal Empire, the attack from the changelings and Sombra was still fresh in many ponies minds at the time. And, Equestria was... on edge to say the least. Every pony was paranoid, and scared about getting attacked. So when ponies in Saddle Arabia found changelings from the Culicidae Hive decades after, the hunts for changelings as a species began.” Celestia hesitated, continuing on in a lower tone. “I did nothing to stop them. It wasn’t until there was a request for cease fire from two of the more… reclusive hives sent my way that I began to step in.”

“Reclusive hives?” Swift Strike asked, “Forgive me for not understanding your highness, but just a moment ago you said that the seven hives routinely attacked the Crystal Empire. What do you mean when you say, reclusive?”

Celestia nodded, “Out of the seven hives, there were only three that were more…” She paused, trying to think of a suitable word, “Peaceful, in their feeding; the Lampyridae hive, Apini hive, and the Coenagrionidae Hive. They only took small amounts, and on occasion there would be a few ponies that would fall ill, however it was never serious and the ponies would recover within a week's time. Their feeding periods were quick though, and their changelings were nearly never spotted. It wasn’t until I met with two of the queens, who had confessed to their infiltrations that we even learned that there were seven hives and the names of each of them, or that there were even such a thing as ‘peaceful feedings’.... Though they refused to explain how they did so.” Celestia added.

It would be nice if she could learn of this ‘peaceful feeding’ method, so she could teach Twilight.

“Before the peace talks, nopony had ever seen or heard of any of the changelings from those hives.” She finished

“And the other four?” Swift Strike continued

Celestia lightly winced, “The other four… were more aggressive in their feeding. The ponies left ill for life were ones that had fallen victim to them.” She paused in her musings, “The Rhithrogena hive and Culicidae hive were the ones that had fallen during the hunts, and if memory serves correctly, the Vesicatoria hive had been dealing with rapidly declining numbers during the peace talks. I highly doubt that they had survived considering how Queen Linae and Queen Apis spoke of them. The Chrysothemis hive should be the last of the aggressive ones, however I have not seen them since the hives went into hiding before the hunts.”

“So… Twilight might belong to one of the four hives?” Swift Strike asked tentatively. “Since it sounds like the Vesicatoria hive has probably gone extinct.”

“Precisely,” Celestia nodded, “And while I sincerely doubt that Twilight’s mother is Queen Linae of the Lampyridae hive, I would be remiss if we did not check simply because they do not have similar features.”

Swift Strike nodded, “Okay. So where do we start?”

Celestia frowned, “I do not know. After the peace talks and the hunts had ceased, Queen Linae and Queen Apis of the Apini hive had immediately gone back to their hives and into hiding. And I hadn’t seen them since, save for a brief mention of odd, black chitinous creatures, that I assume were from the Lampyridae hive, from a few ponies having fallen into illness a few centuries ago during an illness outbreak in a village. Much less anything from the Coenagrionidae hive and Chrysothemis hive for the near past millennia. Which is why I am hoping the two of you, and Mirror Scry of course, can help me.”

“Of course your highness, anything.” Stone Wall said.

Celestia smiled in gratitude, “I confess that… I’m not familiar with ponies I do not frequently meet, making it difficult to know which soldiers are trustworthy to such privy information as I have given to you.” She said, “Much less those who would be absolutely fine with knowledge pertaining to the changelings, which is why I’m incredibly grateful to find you three so accepting of Twilight. So, Stone Wall if you would, please compile a list of soldiers you believe are capable and have the personality to go on a search mission for Twilight’s hive. It would be most beneficial to have at least a dozen ponies, broken into teams of three, as I wish for this to remain as discreet as possible.”

“Consider it done.” Stone Wall nodded, having two or three ponies come in mind.

“Swift Strike and Mirror Scry will have to help you with this, as a few will need to research more about the hives and plan before hoof whether it is safe to explore or to deduce the location of the hives.” Celestia continued.

“Well, Mirror Scry has always been the brains of an operation.” Swift Strike confessed, “So I guess the researching part will be left to her. I guess I’ll be leading the search teams when they’re deployed then.”

“I’d appreciate it.” The Princess said with a nod, just as they finally reached the court. “And if you could deploy to the area of which Twilight was found as soon as you can-”

“Don’t worry your highness, you can count on us.” Swift Strike grinned, eliciting a nod of confirmation from Stone Wall.

“Thank you.” Celestia sighed before entering court.

Court went by just like every other day, with nothing unusual occurring. Petitioners came by and went, nobles asking for an increase to their wealth in a roundabout way, teachers with requests for some extra school funding, ponies with feuds demanding for an answer or compromise, officers humbly asking for a few guards to be deployed in whatever area they were stationed at….

During that time, she could not help but worry about Twilight and how Mirror Scry was watching over her.

By the time lunch came, Celestia could only sigh and hang her head in relief as the doors to the court closed.

“Your highness,” The chef bowed as a trolley of food was catered to her while a table was set up. “Today on the menu is stir fried spinach and mushroom topped with lavender pollen, Avocado salad with balsamic dressing, and lightly roasted tomatoes and cucumber drizzled in garlic lemon sauce and olive oil, complete with feta cheese.”

“Thank you Chef Bean Stalk.” Celestia smiled. Glancing down at the fine dining meals in front of her, her mind wandered back to Twilight, wondering if she was eating the food sent her way.

The Princess inwardly sighed.

Chances were likely that Twilight, like this morning, was refusing to eat.

… Or perhaps she would enjoy her food and Celestia was missing out on Twilight smiling widely to show off her new found dimples and-

Celestia suddenly snapped to attention, realization slamming down within her mind like a weighted ball.

Fangs.

Twilight had fangs.

Canines

How in Equestria did Celestia overlook such a thing?

“Chef Bean Stalk?” Celestia called

“Yes, your highness?” The chef asked

“Who is usually in charge of meal preparation for the Griffon Dignitaries when they visit?”

He fidgeted, “That would be Chef Ramming Seas.”

“If you could, I’d like to have a talk with Chef Ramming Seas.”

He stayed in place fidgeting, causing Celestia to turn in question.

“Is something the matter?” She asked

“N-No. It’s just. Well.” He stammered, glancing around suspiciously before lowering his tone. “It’s just my personal opinion your highness, but I really don’t think it’s a good idea for you to meet her.” He said, causing her to slowly arch a brow.

“Oh?”

“Well you see, she’s not really the type of mare that a pony of your stature should speak to. She’s ah- there’s really no delicate way of putting this, but she’s an…” He took another wary glance around before lowering his tone even further. “Ex-pirate.”

“Is that so?” Celestia asked with interest.

Chef Bean Stalk nodded gravely, “Yes. So she has accumulated many rather… horrid mannerisms over the years. Why, the fact that she cooks meat and fish is just one of the many-”

“I would like to speak with her.” Celestia decided, causing the chef in front of her to splutter.

“I-I… Beg Pardon?”

“I would like to speak with her at her earliest convenience.” Celestia repeated.

“I-I…” Bean Stalk’s mouth kept opening and closing in disbelief before finally, he shut his jaw with a click and bowed. “Of course your highness.” He said before leaving to search for the other chef.

She nodded to herself in approval, a small smile on her lips as she magically grasped her utensils to begin picking her food to eat.

Swift Strike though, who was parked at the foot of the dais with Stone Wall, turned a curious glance toward Celestia when the three of them were alone. “If I may ask your highness, but is there a particular reason why you asked for Chef Ramming Seas?” He asked, “Will the Griffons be returning for another visit soon?”

Celestia shook her head, “No, but I would like to try something only Chef Ramming Seas would be capable of, as it requires meat or fish to be cooked.”

Swift Strike and Stone Wall, having both been exposed to Griffons eating various amounts of times, didn't seem to mind the mention of meat as most ponies would. However, Swift Strike still could not help but be confused about why the Princess would need such types of food.

Before he could ask, Chef Bean Stalk had returned with a coral colored, unicornian mare with a blue mane whom had a scar dragged across her muzzle. Celestia assumed this was Chef Ramming Seas and smiled.

“Chef, thank you for coming so quickly.” Celestia began.

“Yeah, of course.” Ramming Seas waved off, “Not like I could refuse right?” She laughed jokingly.

Celestia nodded, though glanced over to Chef Bean Stalk. “Thank you Chef, but that would be all.”

“I… Of course.” He said with a bow, excusing himself once more.

The moment it was just the Princess, her guards, and Ramming Seas, Celestia casted the sound proof spell once more as she turned to the chef with a smile, “So Chef, I heard that you are in charge of the meals for the visiting Griffon dignitaries.”

“Oh yeah, sure.” Ramming Seas nodded.

“Might I ask, how did you learn how to cook for them?”

The chef let out a boisterous laugh, “I can’t say that it’s the most interesting of backgrounds.” She stated, “I visited Griffonstone a few times during my traveling days. Made a few friends. Nice fellas. I tried to convince them to tag along with me for a while, but they said that unless I can promise meat for them, then they couldn’t. Ended up meeting their mothers and learning how to cook. Next thing I knew, they ended up being guinea pigs for my cooking for two years.”

Celestia nodded, “Have you ever cooked for young ones before?”

The chef perked up, “Only as much as the next chef.”

“Do you like them?”

The chef laughed once more, “I love the little ones! Kids, foals, chicks, they’re all just delightful little tikes.”

Celestia noted the complete lack of xenophobia in Ramming Seas’ statement, and allowed a small smile to form as she took a sip of her tea. “I’m sure you’re aware of the little one I’ve taken under my wing since yesterday.”

“Who in the palace isn’t?”

“She hasn’t taken to eating since our arrival.” Celestia easily continued, not noticing the look of horror on the chef’s face. “I believe it’s because-”

“Your highness, you ought to be ashamed!” Ramming Seas angrily admonished, eliciting an amused brow to arch from Celestia. “Foals her age need to eat properly! She’s at the age where she needs to grow and-”

“She’s not a foal.” Celestia interrupted. “She’s a nymph, and I believe that’s why she does not particularly enjoy pony food.”

The chef knitted her brows in confusion, “A… nymph?”

Celestia nodded before she quickly summarised changeling eating habits and side effects of them feeding off of ponies.

It didn’t take long for her to finish, and by the end of her explanation, Ramming Seas had a thoughtful look on her face.

“I don't know how to teach her how to feed on the love of ponies without causing harm, much less how I would feed her, but I think having physical substance should at least suffice.” Celestia said.

“Hmmm…” Ramming Seas hummed in contemplation, “Well, I don’t mind whipping something up for her tonight. I do have to ask why you think she’d like meat though.”

Celestia sheepishly glanced off to the side, “... She has canines.”

Ramming Seas blinked, staring at the Princess for a moment before chuckling with a shake of a head. “Well shoot Your highness, I’m surprised you didn’t think about it any sooner then.”

“It wasn’t something that came to mind until recently.” Celestia confessed as the doors opened for the herald.

“Well you can be certain that I’ll have a few dishes for her to try by dinner.” The chef said, wrapping their conversation up with a small bow.

“Thank you.” Celestia nodded gratefully, “Please bring them up to my chambers if you could, I’ll be certain to notify the guards posted at the entry of the stairwell.” She finished, disabling the soundproof spell as other ponies came to clean up after her.

“I’ll send it the moment the moon rises.”

From then on, Celestia found herself slipping back into the typical routine of political duties.

Listening to a petitioner’s request, attending cabinet meetings with her council members, reading and signing paper work that required her immediate attention.

Just her usual day, up to when it was time to lower the sun and return to her chambers.

And, as per usual, she found herself inwardly groaning at the fact that her chambers were on the next floor, making it a requirement to climb those horrid stairs every evening.

She racked her brain trying to figure out who in Equestria had the brilliant idea of putting her chambers so far away from the main part of the castle.

Blue Print…? No… Archi Tect?

It was certainly some pony who should have consulted her first before finalizing the location of her chambers so she could have turned the thought down and be rid of trotting up those dreaded stairs.

… That was a lie.

Chances were likely that she was consulted about the location of her chambers, and after consideration, she had agreed to it.

She could not remember the specifics of the discussion since it was so long ago, but it was nye impossible that she didn’t have some form of responsibility in the finalization of her room being so far away… forcing her to walk quite a bit before being able to relax.

Perhaps she should consider implementing a teleportation circle to her room

She mentally sighed, knowing fully well that she would not. Especially considering that the trek up the stairs and down such a long hallway is usually her only way to get any form of physical exercise for her legs from her normally long hours of sitting.

… This was likely the reason as to the location of her room now that she thought about it.

The teleportation circle would not be created.

With little effort Celestia magicked her doors to slowly open as Stone Wall and Swift Strike took their positions by the entry way.

Before she could open them wide enough to begin stepping in, she was immediately attacked by Twilight.

Or, her foreleg was rather.

Twilight, still donned in her incomplete unicorn form with an outfitted cape draped across her back, was tightly wrapping all of her legs against Celestia’s, a large smile engulfing her face as her wings happily vibrated in a blur. “Eve-ing!” She proclaimed in excitement.

And Celestia could not help but to be warmed at the action.

“Why good evening Twilight,” Celestia greeted, taking hold of the nymph in her magic to levitate her off her leg and up to her neck to properly hug. “I take that you missed me.”

Twilight lightly chirped as though in agreement before nuzzling further into Celestia’s coat.

The Princess smiled as she carefully walked into her chambers, still holding Twilight against herself. “I missed you too. I hope you behaved yourself for Mirror Scry.”

“Well,” the unicorn began as she stepped forward, “Besides a few minor hiccups and more than a dozen mispronunciation of the word evening, I would say that the little Miss was most excellent in her behavior.”

“You were able to calm her after we left?” Celestia inquired with a bit of concern.

Scry nodded, “Yes. Though I admit that I felt out of my comfort zone at the time, but it was quickly settled with an explanation of where we would be going and doing for the day.”

Celestia arched a brow at that, glancing down at a widely grinning Twilight. Recalling the morning of meeting Twilight and their quick lesson, Celestia suddenly was no longer surprised at how an informative lecture was able to placate the nymph.

“You’ve got to be kidding me…” Swift Strike mumbled from his post.

“Little miss,” Scry called, craning her head down as Twilight leaned her head back to face the guard in an upside down manner. “Why don’t you show the Princess, Swift Strike, and Stone Wall the book her highness wanted? Then we can show them the books you got afterward?”

Twilight beamed, letting go of Celestia (and eliciting the Princess to gently let her back down to the floor) as she scampered over to her small bed where a dozen or so books were scattered about. She clumsily stood on her hind legs, almost slipping as she leaned on the surface of the low bed. Knitting her brows, her tongue peeking out at the side of her mouth, she scanned over the many covers and shuffled them about before finding what she needed. With a smile, she leaned forward to carefully grab hold of the book in her mouth, and proceeded to drag it off (along with a bit of her bed sheets). Her head jolted down from the drop in weight, but Twilight persisted in keeping hold of it, no thanks to the help of Scry’s pastel green magic glow barely taking hold of the book, and proceeded to clumsily trot back to Celestia with a smile.

Celestia wasn’t sure she would ever see a sight more adorable than the nymph proudly handing her the book by standing on her hind legs while using Celestia’s foreleg to balance against.

“Thank you very much Twilight.” Celestia beamed, taking hold of the book in her magical grasp and allowing Twilight to properly show off her pointed teeth before getting back to all four of her hooves. Though, the princess immediately frowned when she realized just how thin the book was.

“Is this really all we have to Changelings?” Celestia asked Scry who nodded solemnly.

“I scoured through as much as I could and that was all I could find. Of course, I will continue searching to see if there is any more, but as of now.” Scry gestured to the book.

Celestia lightly sighed, “Thank you Scry. I’d appreciate all the help.” She said just as a slew of trays came floating in. “For now, you may return to your post. Stone Wall and Swift Strike should fill you in on what we discussed pertaining to the search for Twilight’s hive.”

“Of course your highness.” Scry lightly bowed. She gently patted Twilight on the head to bid her a good night, before exiting the chambers just as Ramming Seas came into view at the door frame.

“Chef, please. Come in.” Celestia motioned, magicking the doors to the dining room open.

“Thanks.” Ramming Seas nodded, floating the trays over to the designated area as her eyes caught sight of Twilight. Immediately, the chef beamed, “And this must be the infamous Twilight Sparkle! You didn’t cause another commotion today did you?”

Twilight for her part, seemed torn between confusion and shyness, as she had barely backed away to hide under Celestia while tilting her head curiously toward the Chef and the food floating by.

“Don’t be shy! Let me see your whites!” Ramming Seas said, exaggerating a wide smile for Twilight. “Pleeeeeeeease!”

A small smile crept up on Twilight’s face, finding the face amusing as she looked up at Celestia as though saying, “Are you seeing what I’m seeing?”

Celestia chuckled at the display, looking down at Twilight and lightly pushing her toward the Chef with a wing, she nodded in agreement as she smiled widely herself. “Yes Twilight, pleeease.” She lightly sang.

Twilight, being a somewhat easily amused nymph, giggled at the alicorn and unicorn’s silliness as she tried mimicking the two. “Peeeeeaaaas!” She repeated, unable to pronounce the word fully without having grown all her teeth. At her attempt, she dropped her chest to the floor as she wiggled her flank in excitement, thinking that this was a game.

“Ahhhh! There they are!” Ramming Seas gruffly laughed, dropping her own chest to the floor as she playfully gestured punches and ruffles to the nymph. “Those are mighty canine’s alright!”

Twilight squealed in delight as she attempted to dodge the Chef’s hooves, jumping back and side to side with a happy buzz.

“These teeth are definitely going to tear right on through what I have prepared for her.” Ramming Seas nodded, having already finished setting the dining table up. “Come! Come! Let’s have her try some!” The chef beckoned, walking toward the dining room as though she were familiar with Celestia’s chambers with a small bounce in her step.

Twilight looked up to Celestia, as though to ask for permission to follow the Chef. Upon seeing a nod, Twilight eagerly trotted after Ramming Seas, mimicking her posture and bounce.

Following along, Celestia couldn’t help but giggle at how adorable it was to watch Twilight try to mimic the chef.

“Here we are! Down you go!” Ramming Seas said, patting the only small, foal sized cushion.

Twilight mad a move to unexpectedly listen to the Chef, but was stopped by Celestia.

"Now Twilight," Celestia said with a light warning tone, "You need to change first. We don't want a repeat of yesterday." She said, remembering how Twilight had decided to change back to her changeling form on her new cushion, leaving it wet and causing Celestia to cast a drying spell.

The nymph paused before chirping in agreement, spreading her legs just a little further apart before shaking her body. A light mist procured off of her, along with her unicorn form, to reveal her changeling body before she plopped right down to her designated seat and look up at Ramming Seas as Celestia gently magicked Twilight’s cape off to reveal her four, bug like wings.

Ramming Seas didn’t even bat an eye, “Right then! Since I wasn’t sure where this little tyke’s tastes laid, I went ahead and made a generally popular dish the chicks over in Griffonstone like.” She began, glancing over to Celestia who was taking her own seat. “It’s called a Hamburg Steak. The reason why it’s so popular with the little ones is because of how rich in taste it is and how soft it is. You barely even have to chew it. Parents like to cook it too, because it’s easy to hide vegetables in it.” Ramming Seas laughed, uncovering the dish to reveal a patty in the shape of a star drizzled in tomato sauce, accompanied by flower shaped carrots.

The design and smell seemed to peak Twilight’s interest if her perked ears and little nose wiggle as she sniffed the food were anything to go by.

Carefully, Celestia magically cut a bit of the food with Twilight’s utensils, and hovered it in front of her.

Another sniff or two, Twilight deemed the smell passable enough to at least open her mouth and allow the food to enter.

As Celestia fed her, Twilight slowly chewed… a process that soon became faster as she smiled.

After swallowing, Celestia waited with bated breath as she examined Twilight’s features, analyzing whether or not the nymph liked it.

To her immense relief, Twilight happily chirped as her wings buzzed in approval before opening her mouth for another serving.

“Thank you Chef,” Celestia sighed as she obliged to the young Queen’s demand, “I didn’t think Twilight would ever get around to eating.”

Ramming Seas laughed with a shake of a head, “Of course she would! It’s just a matter of finding something suited to her tastes. The little ones have picky buds you know, they only become more lenient with age and steady easing.”

Celestia nodded in agreement, “Once again, thank you for helping me with this chef. If you don’t mind continuing on with this position.”

“I’d be honored.”

“Wonderful. If you could speak with Mirror Scry on your way out, she’ll confirm with you and inform you of anything else you wish to know about Twilight.” Celestia smiled, “I look forward to what you have planned for breakfast tomorrow morning.”

Ramming Seas bowed with a small smile on her face, “You got it. I’ll be sure to make something this little one will enjoy.” She said with a ruffle to Twilight’s head.

Twilight merely preened under the attention, puffing her chest out in pride and sitting as tall as she could. Though she quickly realized something was missing as she suddenly frowned and looked up at Celestia, her mouth opening in a request for another serving of the food.

The two laughed at the sight as Celestia indulged the young Queen while Ramming Seas bowed once more to dismiss herself.

“Have a good night Chef.” Celestia politely bid, though her attention was still held by Twilight. “Do you like it?” she asked, feeding Twilight another serving as Celestia served herself with the dish prepared for herself.

Twilight happily buzzed, opening her mouth wide and engulfing the food off the fork.

Celestia merely chuckled, her eyes flickering over the changeling’s body and noting a bit of dust and dirt on her carapace… then frowned. “How did you get dirty?”

Twilight tilted her head in confusion, a small - seemingly innocent - smile on her face as she looked up at Celestia.

The Princess gave a small frown, dreading the idea of having to give Twilight another bath in memory of yesterday evening.

While the process of it was incredibly easy, getting Twilight to come out of the bath tub proved most difficult. What was supposed to be half an hour of bathtime at most ended up taking the better part of two hours as the nymph had staunchly refused to get out even when the water started to become cold.

It wasn’t an event Celestia was keen on repeating.

...Perhaps a shower would do?

Recalling how ecstatic Twilight was when the bathtub was simply starting to run water made Celestia quickly perish the thought.

… Then again…

Celestia glanced over into her bedroom chambers where the book on changelings was left.

If Twilight took a bath, Celestia could always take that time to read what little there is to the species.

She stared at the book for a few more seconds, until the other books that Twilight had procured came into Celestia’s peripheral and a small smile graced across her muzzle.

“Nevermind that,” Celestia said with a headshake, “You’ll just have to make do with a nice brushing.” She said with a smile.

Twilight tilted her head in confusion, her eyes curiously looking up at Celestia as though saying, “Brushing? What is this ‘brushing’ you speak of?” which merely elicited a giggle from Celestia.

There was plenty of time tomorrow to read the book on changelings.

“Why don’t we read some of your books that you brought back while we brush you? Hm?” She asked, bringing a hoof up to gently boop Twilight on the nose with.

A wide, tooth smile stretched across Twilight’s cheeks as she chirped with a delighted buzz, warming Celestia’s chest at the sight of the expression.

“But we need to finish all our food first, okay?” Celestia pointed out before lowering her head and whispering a conspiracy, “We can’t read on an empty stomach.” She said, playfully nuzzling Twilight and causing her to giggle in agreement.

Author's Note

Hello Everyone!

Thank you soooo much for your support and interest in this story! As I have said before, this was a complete (but pleasant) surprise! And I hope you all enjoy reading this as much as I enjoy writing it!

Also, many many thanks to my Pre-Reader Rewrite for being fantastic and helping me out with this.

Chapter 3: Guarding Nymphs 101 - Bonding with your Charge, Pt. 1

Ever since the discovery of chocolate, the flavor had been a generally popular item amongst ponies. Many had accumulated love for treats with such flavor, even addicted. Celestia could say without shame that she is one of the many that had grown fond of the flavor, even indulging in the occasional chocolate cake when she felt that it would be well deserved.

Vanilla was another popular flavor that other ponies enjoyed. Along with strawberry and almond flavors.

However… Celestia rarely ever saw anyone enjoy cinnamon... much less be so obsessed with it.

Yet, after finishing her eggs and something called “bacon”, and after a bit of prompting Twilight had engulfed the rest of Celestia’s breakfast consisting of cinnamon pancakes so quickly, that the princess wasn’t even sure if the nymph had chewed properly. Now, even as Celestia was finishing her morning cup of tea, Twilight was joyfully gnawing at the last of the cinnamon sticks that was placed on Celestia’s plate for decorative purposes as she sat comfortingly under Celestia’s wing.

Sensing her gaze, Twilight briefly slowed her chewing on the cinnamon stick as she turned to look up at Celestia with curiosity.

The Princess could only smile in endearment as she took one last sip of her tea, “Did you enjoy your food?”

Twilight’s wings lightly vibrated as she chirped in happiness while she continued gnawing at the cinnamon stick.

Celestia peered at the nymph with careful contemplation.

While it was just a tad concerning to find Twilight so fond of cinnamon, it was also the first time Twilight had eaten anything so enthusiastically.

Just as Twilight had a natural aversion to most pony foods, Celestia mused whether it was possible that changelings had a preference for cinnamon over other popular flavors.

That was another area to consider though, as the idea of cinnamon being comparable to chocolate or other sweets would make for something to concern herself about.

The Princess mentally sighed in slight frustration for having so many questions surrounding something so seemingly as simple as cinnamon.

Perhaps the book on the species would have something to say about the spice.

… Or it might even speak of changelings eating physical sustenance.

Despite Celestia theorizing that Twilight could be fine eating meat in substitution for consuming “love”, the Princess didn’t actually know whether it was okay for Twilight to be eating the things she has been.

And although Twilight seemed more than alright so far, the more persisting question was whether Twilight would stay healthy.

Even then, feeding Twilight meat was still met with caution and hesitance from the nymph. Cinnamon on the other hoof, had elicited a stronger reaction and enthusiasm… In which she would have to be cautious of, unsure of whether it was normal for changelings to act in such a way.

She would have to speak with Ramming Seas about her new found concerns, along with the amount of foods to be served with cinnamon.

It would have to be soon though, as this was a rather pressing matter and she would like to discuss it as soon as possible...

Perhaps she could do so before Stone Wall accompanied Twilight into town to purchase a few items of entertainment to fill her small area in Celestia’s room?

They would have to make their way through the main part of the castle before leaving, and Celestia figured that it would be beneficial if she had Twilight stop by the kitchens with her.

The chef and Twilight would certainly enjoy it, and it would allow Celestia to speak with the former.

It would also help Celestia to start teaching Twilight to develop some polite manners.

Nodding to herself, Celestia got up and off her cushion, prompting Twilight to clumsily follow suit while still holding and gnawing on the cinnamon stick.

“Alright Twilight, I'm going to have to ask you to change.” Celestia carefully said, “Which means that you will have to stop chewing on your… snack.”

Twilight merely stared up at Celestia wide eyed, still gnawing away.

Celestia grimaced as she attempted to take hold of the cinnamon stick in her magic and tug it away. “Please Twilight, you need to change before we can leave.”

The action immediately was met with a whine as Twilight clamped harder down on her snack.

“You can have it back after you change.” Celestia frowned, finally wrestling the bark free from Twilight’s mouth.

The nymph warbled at the loss of her snack, her wings twitching to and fro as her ears wilted while she stared at the cinnamon stick pleadingly with watery eyes.

Celestia suddenly felt like the most terrible pony in all of Equestria for doing this, but knew that she had to remain firm. “You can have it back after you change little one.” She repeated.

Twilight frowned, her sad gaze flickering back and forth between Celestia and the chewed up stick. She seemed to understand the request after a few seconds though, as she frantically and clumsily, shook her chitin off as a sheen of mist to reveal her semi-unicornian form, stumbling a few steps to the side from how hard she shook herself.

After steadying her hooves though, she ran up to Celestia, standing on her hind legs while leaning against the Princess’s forehoof and staring up at the cinnamon stick with expectancy.

Celestia carefully levitated the cinnamon stick down toward Twilight, but before it was even in front of her, Twilight immediately jumped up to snatch it back before scurrying out of the dining room before Celestia could take the snack away again.

The Princess blinked in bewilderment before shaking her head as she trotted after the crazed nymph. The reaction for the snack was certainly new indeed, especially considering how she hadn’t seen a foal do anything similar.

It was another question she would have to ask Ramming Seas.

She took a hold of Twilight’s navy blue cape from the nymph’s bed, once again left vacant in the midst of the night in favor of using the Princess as one, and carefully placed it over Twilight’s bug wings as Celestia magicked her chamber doors open.

“Good morning guards.” Celestia smiled, eliciting various responses from the three. Glancing down at Twilight, she lightly nudged the nymph with a wing, “Twilight? Can you say ‘good morning’ to them?” she asked, lightly singing the greeting.

The young Changeling Queen slowed down her chewing as she looked up at Celestia in confusion before glancing over to the three guards curiously, unsure of what it was that the princess wanted her to do.

Swift Strike widely smiled as he craned his neck down. “Morning little miss! What’s that you have there?” he asked, inching a little closer to get a better look of the item in her mouth

Twilight immediately backed away, hiding behind Celestia’s foreleg with a low buzz and a pointed look at the pegasus guard and causing him to look bewildered.

Celestia sighed in slight exasperation as she lifted her hoof up to reveal the nymph, “Now Twilight, don’t be rude.” She lightly admonished. “He just wanted to know what you were eating.”

Twilight winced at the reprimand, her ears wilting down as she looked away from Swift Strike. She reluctantly brought a hoof up to hold on her cinnamon stick and take it out of her mouth before showing him.

Unfortunately, it was so chewed up that he wasn’t sure as to what it was. “Er…” Swift Strike sounded out.

“I believe that is a cinnamon stick.” Mirror Scry clarified, prompting Twilight to shove it back into her mouth to chew on as she smiled up at the unicornian guard. “And a good morning to you little miss.” She greeted, careful to enunciate the greeting.

Twilight slowed her chewing once more, glancing between every pony in contemplation as they all gazed at her with slight expectancy. Her eyes finally settled on Stone Wall though, as she tilted her head in confusion.

Every pair of eyes shifted to him in understanding as they waited for him to greet Twilight to help prompt her to learn.

Despite his stoic features, it seemed that he was fully aware of the slight pressure and expectancy weighing on him if his ear twitch was anything to go by.

Celestia politely coughed, “Do you remember him Twilight? This is Stone Wall. He’s going to be watching over you for today until the evening.”

It was enough to prompt him to look at Twilight, who was shuffling a little on her hooves, and give a forced, awkward smile which Celestia found amusing.

Twilight mimicked the expression, eliciting the princess to giggle in endearment.

“Good mornin’ little miss.” Stone Wall finally greeted.

Twilight paused, her ears flickering about as everyone watched her with anticipation as she carefully peered up at the guard before glancing over to Celestia.

Celestia chuckled at Twilight’s confusion before repeating the greeting, “Good morning~!” She sang.

Mirror Scry nodded in agreement, “indeed little miss, good morning~!” She chided along

Twilight giggled at Celestia and Scry’s silliness and attempted to repeat after them, “Goooood’ morrrrrr-ning!” She tried, her ‘d’ sounding heavier than should be.

Celestia nodded in approval with a bright smile, “Very good Twilight!”

Another giggle sounded from the nymph as she turned to the guards, “Goooood’ moorrrr-ning!” she sang again.

At this, the guards couldn’t help but to smile widely at Twilight.

“Now then, why don’t we make our way to say hello to Ramming Seas? Hm?” Celestia asked as she trotted out of her chambers.

Twilight eagerly followed along, though albeit clumsily as she was still focused on the delicious spiced flavor in her mouth.

The guards immediately took to the Princess’s sides as she magicked her doors closed.

Going down the long staircase was quite the adventure as Twilight had attempted to charge ahead, stumbling down a few steps every now and then to give Celestia a heart attack. However, Mirror Scry seemed cautious of this as she would reach out with her magic to help steady the young Queen.

It must have been something she had to be wary of when watching over Twilight yesterday.

“Stone Wall,” Celestia called as they neared the castle kitchen.

“Yes your highness?”

“Here is an itemized list of what I would like to be purchased for Twilight.” Celestia said, magicking a list to appear in front of her and floating it over to the guard. “Along with those supplies, she’s allowed to select a single toy of her choosing.”

Stone Wall nodded as he tucked the list away into one of his satchels.

“Here are some bits to purchase those items.” Celestia continued, floating over a small pouch. “I included some extra bits so you can purchase food for yourself.”

“There is no need your highness.” Stone Wall frowned.

“I insist.” Celestia tried,

“It is unnecessary.” Stone Wall firmly stated, “If you wish to pay for my lunch, then I can make do with whatever is left from purchasing the supplies.”

Celestia hesitated before nodding in agreement, “Then feel free to use the extra bits for whatever you find suitable for Twilight.”

“Of course your highness.” He agreed, finally taking the pouch and setting it in his satchel.

Twilight chirped to get Celestia’s attention as they finally made it to their destination, tilting her head in confusion as though wanting to know whatever it was that Celestia and Stone Wall were discussing.

“Don’t mind us, Twilight,” Celestia smiled, “Stone Wall is merely being… modest.”

Twilight glanced over to Stone Wall in confusion.

“It’s a good thing,” Celestia explained, though paused. “Most of the time.”

Twilight didn’t seem to notice her later comment, and was merely content to find that everything was still fine before the doors to the kitchen opened…

Only for yells to suddenly sound out and cause Twilight to catch air.

“What are you?” A familiar voice yelled.

A low mumble was sounded, prompting another yell.

“WHAT ARE YOU?!”

“An idiot sandwich, ma’am!”

“That’s right you are!” the voice yelled as a slice of bread was thrown across the kitchen and landed close to the entrance.

Immediately, the nymph dropped her snack in favor of diving under Celestia’s body, and took hold of a forehoof to cling onto for protection while the Princess merely raised a brow at the offending weapon. The vicious slice of bread.

“Y-Your highness!” somepony yelped, causing the entirety of the kitchen staff to stand at attention.

Ramming Seas turned toward the entrance, scowl still in place before immediately brightening up. “Oh! Mor-” Her voice broke, most likely due to the sudden change in tone, and eliciting her to cough to clear her throat. “Mornin’ highness!” The chef greeted, trotting up toward the Princess. When Ramming Seas stopped in front of her, she paused to glance around in question.

Celestia understood who it was that the chef was looking for and chuckled before craning her neck down, “Come out Twilight, you remember the chef from yesterday don’t you?”

Timidly, the nymph poked her head out, cautiously looking at Ramming Seas to ensure there would be no more yelling.

The chef beamed at the sight of Twilight though, and craned her head down. “There’s my favorite little sucker! I hope you’re having a very good morning!”

Feeling more at ease, Twilight smiled as she let go of Celestia’s foreleg to take a few steps forward before ducking her chest to the ground. “Goood’ mooooorrrr-ning!” She sang.

Ramming Seas pressed a hoof to her own chest, “Oof! What a way to be serenaded! She’s got a talent there I’m telling you your highness.” The chef said, eliciting a proud smile from Celestia. “And how’d you like the breakfast I made you?” She asked Twilight.

“Actually, that’s what I’m here to speak with you about.” Celestia began, causing Ramming Seas to provide her whole attention.

The chef looked around before nodding over to a side room, in which Celestia and Twilight followed her into, while the guards posted themselves outside.

“Now what is this about?” Ramming Seas asked as she closed the door behind them. “Don’t tell me she’s allergic to eggs or bacon…” She said with concern.

Celestia lightly coughed, “No, however that is a new concern I hadn’t considered. But what I wished to speak about was about Twilight’s new found fondness for cinnamon.”

An arched brow, “Cinnamon y’say? Not really something the little ones typically flock to…. Unless it’s in apple pie.”

The Princess chuckled in agreement, “Indeed, which is why I wished to ask you… if such a reaction was… normal.” She settled on.

“Reaction?”

A brief summary of this morning’s events were given, and Ramming Seas let out a loud laugh, “Just that? I’d say her reaction to Cinnamon is tame in comparison to some chicks and foals I’ve looked over! In fact, I’d say you’re the one overreacting, if I may be so honest.”

Celestia looked wary, “Am I?”

A joyful nod, “It’s not a bad thing, highness. Every parent has a right to be concerned.”

“But I-”

“Or guardian, if we were to go over semantics.”

The title seemed to placate the princess, “Well, as I was simply concerned over her fondness for the flavor, but if you advise that it is not to be worried over-” she casted a wary glance over to the nymph.

Twilight merely peered up at Celestia, and flashed an innocent, toothy smile.

“Ahhhhh! There it is!” Ramming Seas cheered, reaching over to give Twilight a tight hug and ruffle to her mane. The action in which successfully elicited a loud squeal and giggle. “Have I mentioned that I love her whites? And her dimples!”

“They are quite adorable, yes.” Celestia smiled as she looked down at Twilight fondly.

“Alright, well back to the subject at hoof, I’ll be sure to lessen the amount of cinnamon goods that are served.” Ramming Seas smiled as she straightened herself up and opened the door, “It’ll be no different than controlling the amount of chocolate the little chicks in Griffonstone get.”

“Thank you.” Celestia said as they made their way out. “I look forward to lunch by the way, you’re a most excellent chef.”

“Well I wasn’t hired to work here for nothing.” Ramming Seas laughed as she accompanied the Princess and Twilight to the kitchen’s exit.

“You make a valid point.” Celestia chuckled before pausing, “And… I suppose I should not question the reason for this… idiot sandwich?”

“Messed up a sandwich with unwashed vegetables.” Ramming Seas easily voiced, “Don’t worry about it.”

“... Then I suppose I won’t.” Celestia cautiously said before turning to Twilight, “Alright then, say ‘bye bye~’ to Miss Seas, Twilight.”

Twilight glanced back and forth between the chef and princess in confusion.

“She leaving the castle or something?” Ramming Seas asked.

Celestia nodded, “Yes, she and Stone Wall will be going to town to buy toys for foals. I confess that her area in my chambers is quite lacking.”

Ramming Seas nodded in understanding, “Well then, how about I whip up a little something for the road then?” She asked, piquing Twilight’s interest. “Maybe some-”

Celestia shook her head, “Thank you for your generosity, however they should be fine for the day.”

“Of course.” The chef reluctantly nodded, before turning to the nymph. “Bye bye, Miss Twilight!” Ramming Seas widely smiled, waving a hoof to the nymph for departure.

Celestia glanced to her guards, gesturing for them to do the same.

Nervously, the three looked at each other before inwardly sighing in resignation, “Bye bye Chef Ramming Seas.” They all chorused in varying tones, with Swift Strike sounding the most enthusiastic.

The chef arched a brow in amusement, “Bye bye you three.” She said.

Quizzically, Twilight lifted a hoof to mimic the gesture with a head tilt like she did yesterday when Celestia attempted to leave her. Though this time, Twilight decided to voice out a confused and quiet, “Bye bye?” while looking up to Celestia for confirmation.

The Princess nodded in approval before turning to address the cook. “Have a good day chef,” Celestia said before she, Twilight, and the guards trotted away. Twilight continued waving her hoof though, unsure of when to stop.

“Good day Princess.” Ramming Seas bowed.

“Bye Bye?” Twilight repeated as they got further, eliciting a laugh from the chef before she returned back into the kitchen.

As they continued walking away, they came to an intersection in which the Princess made a left instead of a-

“Your highness,” Mirror Scry voiced. “I do believe court is the other way.”

Celestia chuckled, “Yes, but I wished to at least see Twilight and Stone Wall to the entrance before they left to town.”

Mirror Scry paused before nodding. “I suppose we have enough time for that.”

“I have yet to thank you ahead of time Stone Wall,” Celestia continued, “I understand that it’ll be Twilight’s first time in town, so it’s possible some problems may arise, and as much as I wish I could be there to watch over her-”

“It’s fine, your highness,” Stone Wall interrupted. “It’s no trouble at all.”

“That may be so, but if you find-”

“Good morning, Your highness,” A voice interrupted, snapping Celestia’s attention away.

“Oh, Jet Set.” Celestia nodded, “Good morning.”

“And might I ask where you are heading off to?” The pony asked in a haughty tone, “If I recall, court will be beginning shortly.”

“Yes. I am aware.” Celestia said, careful to not allow her slight ire to leak into her tone. “I’m simply accompanying Twilight here.”

Jet Set hummed, peering down at the nymph who had pressed herself to Celestia’s leg. “Ah yes, your new... “ He coughed, “And exactly what is her relation to yourself might I ask?”

Celestia inwardly sighed.

She knew that nobles would have rising questions about Twilight sooner or later, and that she would have to address them within the month. However, she did not wish to do so within the first week.

“Well, I have plans on making Twilight a ward of the crown.” Celestia answered, causing Jet Set’s eyes to widen. Before he could open his mouth for further inquiry, the Princess hastily added. “Any other explanation and answers to further questions will be made at a later date. For now, I ask that you excuse me so I can continue with my now, much shorter, accompaniment of her.”

Jet Set’s mouth audibly clamped shut before he bowed, “Yes. Of course your highness. I will see you sometime during court.”

Celestia nodded in dismissal before she continued trotting along, spreading a wing outward to protectively wrap around Twilight, who was more than happy to nuzzle against the warm feathers.

When they were a suitable distance away, Celestia let out an irate sigh.

It was far too early for her to have to deal with ponies like Jet Set.

And to think, she would have to see him later that day when she had hoped that she could focus her worries on simply attempting to read the book on Changelings.

A low croon and a light nudge at her wing broke its way through Celestia’s ire though, causing her to look down at Twilight’s concerned expression.

Warmed at the nymph’s concern, Celestia quickly tightened her wing around Twilight as she lightly chuckled. “I’m fine, thank you for worrying about me though, Twilight.”

The nymph smiled in acknowledgment before nuzzling into Celestia’s wing with a purr.

Unable to help herself, Celestia gently scooped Twilight to lightly cradle into her wing, and swung her gently (and occasionally tossing her into the air) for the remainder of the walk toward the entrance to the nymph’s delight.

“Alright then, here we are.” Celestia said as she positioned her wing in such a way to allow Twilight to slide down. “Please make sure you behave yourself for Stone Wall alright?”

Twilight tilted her head in confusion, glancing over to the guard in question.

Upon noticing her attention on him, Stone Wall flashed an awkward smile, prompting her to hesitantly mimic his expression.

“And, Stone Wall?” Celestia called.

“Yes, your highness?”

“I entrust her safety to you.”

“Yes, your highness.” Stone Wall nodded as he crossed over an invisible threshold to stand by Twilight’s side.

“Well then, I’ll see you in the evening okay, Twilight?” Celestia smiled, waving a hoof.

The nymph casted curious glances between Stone Wall, Celestia, and Mirror Scry in confusion as they all hoped the young changeling queen would not cry like she did yesterday.

Timidly, Twilight followed Celestia’s movements with slightly watery eyes. “Eve-ning… Bye bye?”

Despite feeling as though she were committing a crime, Celestia smiled with a nod. “Yes, Twilight. Bye bye for now. I’ll see you in the evening okay?”

“Let’s be on our way, little miss.” Stone Wall said, making a move to head out.

Twilight turned hesitantly and clumsily, throwing glances back toward Celestia as she continued following after the guard.

Every few steps or so, she would make a half turn to continue waving while repeating, “Bye bye…” before Stone Wall would lightly nudge her along with his nose, causing her to stumble.

When Celestia, Mirror Scry, and Swift Strike were finally out of sight though, Twilight suddenly began whimpering as her ears drooped.

Author's Note

Hello Everyone!

Yes. I am alive and doing well! Thank you to those who reached out in concern, and Thank you all soooo much for your support and interest in this story! I'm aware it's been... awhile, and I hope 2020 has been kind to you all.

I know there have been questions about whether or not I will be continuing this story. And I will say right now, that I will try my best to complete it. Thank you all again, for the love and support, I appreciate it. :heart:

This updated chapter is a bit shorter than the others, but I hope you enjoyed it.