Embers of Passion

Chapters

Prologue
Forced Cooperation
An Understanding
A Trip to the Hive
Diplomatic Speeches
About Chrysalis
Canterlot
The Start of a New Era
An Old, Bloody Past

Prologue

Love is a powerful emotion, possibly one of the most powerful, in fact. It has the ability to control the actions and thoughts of even the most stoic characters in existence. Even the all powerful Princess Celestia is swayed by love. Even the Queen of the Changelings is affected.

Love to us is a food source. It as delicious as red velvet, and is as important to us changelings as nutrients are to other creatures. We eat normal food, as we do require calories as an energy to function, but love is required to keep us healthy and alive.

Malnutrition is the lack of the required nutrients. It makes the creature sick and frail, and birthing deadly to both the child and the parent. It has plagued us recently, and was my reasoning to invade Canterlot. I planned on using the weakness of love to my advantage so I could take over and harvest it in bulk for my children.

The great princess of love fell, the famous prince, and the regal Celestia all came down with them. Even the highly regarded Elements of Harmony collapsed. It was a bitter victory, since I never liked releasing our existence to the world, and I never wanted to conquer our main food source, but times were rough and change was needed.

In the chaos of fear and hate, I felt an amazing sense of love in the moments leading up to our defeat. I heard my changelings mutter about me lying, or me mistaking it for the royal couple who was supposed to marry, but I know what I felt.

It wasn’t me gaining love, but me feeling it. I was intrigued by the small purple unicorn that had quickly seen through my disguise and then quickly acted to dispose of me. I grew fond of her willpower and her strength. It was my own, fragile love that I felt. And my hesitance was all it took before I was sent hurtling out of the castle.

After our first encounter, I quickly went about on spying on her, finding more about Twilight Sparkle, the mare who had bested me and was the sister of the Princess whose identity I stole. I gained the guise of a red and pink unicorn whose field of choice was Couple Counselling. After a few lies and a new shop in the town of Ponyville, I spent my time doing my job and watching Twilight from afar, and a little closer by borrowing a book from the library.

When she left town, I left town. When she went to the heart of Canterlot, so did I. I followed her wherever she went. I felt her joy, sadness, hate, frustration, and every emotion she felt. Out of obsession or curiosity, I made it my goal to know what she was doing, and I couldn’t figure out why. As I watched her, I came to admire her. I was there when she was transformed into an Alicorn. I was panicked when I thought the spell originally backfired and killed her, but found myself trying not to run and hug her when she came down from the sky as a whole new mare.

From fights with beings that far surpassed my time and hers, to silly adventures with her friends, I watched. And yearned. Friendship was a concept I knew, but aside from acting in disguise, I never truly felt it. Ponies befriend my disguise, not me, not who I am. I sometimes kid myself and think if I came out they would still view me as their friend, but I knew I blew that chance when I invaded.

It wasn’t until when I came down with a sickness when she went off to some town in the middle of nowhere that I found out that it wasn’t an exploration of curiosity or obsession that drove me. I found myself missing her, daydreaming of a time when I could not be in disguise and feel love that I always thought was forbidden to me. It was love that drove me and I found that harder to cope with. For half a decade I was falling head over heels for someone I knew I could not be with even if she was on her deathbed.

When I got better I closed my business, offering sympathy to any scheduled couples, saying a family emergency required me to go back to Canterlot. I now knew what drove me, and the crushing reality of the situation made it depressing to try and stay.

Of course, fate has a funny way of making you stay.

Since the Library was blown up and a bigger, more crystal tree erected itself in town, the Friendship Castle had basically opened it’s personal library to the public once it was stocked. I have borrowed a few books from here, ranging from mystery to some romance for reasons.

While I did want to get out of town and avoid Twilight as much as possible, I was not one to steal books from ponies. I made my way through the main doors of the castle, which had to be the most unprotected castle of a princess in history. At least a few guards wouldn’t hurt.

Spike was cleaning up the main hall, and telling by the haphazardly thrown saddlebag on Twilight’s seat, she had recently returned from wherever it was she went. I didn’t really pay much attention to their conversation, as I was more distracted by the factor one of my clients caught my while I was trying to use my eavesdropping spell.

The dragon mumbled a greeting, more focused on sweeping up the easy to mop floors. I ignored him as I entered the large library, this one being twice the size of the tree library. It was a three story room with sliding ladders along the bookcases and tables on the main floor for reading.

Twilight was face first in a pile of paperwork, as usual. She has been working on something, but I never figured out what. I stopped trying to read her notes years ago when I gave me a headache and made me realize how poor-read I was when it came to pony science.

Trying to hurry up, I quickly levitated the books I brought onto the return desk and signed them back in. I looked over at the alicorn, who now had the look on her face like she discovered the holy grail, and sighed. With a quick light of my horn, I cursed my curiosity and began try and get a glimpse of her paperwork.

When I first started spying on her, I found a spell to help me see through her eyes. It’s hard to detect and is a little disorienting, so I normally pretend I’m spaced out in thought or asleep when I do it.

Her notes were as quickly and poorly scribbled as ever, making it difficult to translate anything useful. The most I could tell it was something for detection, which piqued my curiosity more. Reading on, I tried to figure out more, only understanding that it was complex, but was simplified for novice use which told me it was a spell designed to be used by anyone with magic or a charm.

I froze as I read the target host, what sort of detection it really was. It wasn’t for only detecting, but for revealing a disguised changeling by canceling any sort of distortion magic and few other types for good measure. It seemed like I chose the right time to leave.

I caught a glimpse of her horn lighting up, causing me to quickly cut off the spell. I turned for the door, trying to leave without drawing attention but before she could cast the spell. I was only able to make it halfway before I felt a nauseating feeling course through my body as I suddenly gained height.

I stood there, terrified. Changelings have existed for centuries and a few occasions have been spotted and hunted, but each time we blended back into society without a trace. Twilight changed that. She got rid of the curtain that separated our species and hid us for so long.

I could feel her eyes on me, her magic still pulsing in the room as she held another spell at the ready. Everything seemed to stand still, the moment before my obvious demise waiting. I found myself an idiot to have spent all this time following a silly crush, not finding Twilight as the threat she was. I fell for the one thing I used to my advantage.

Slowly, I dared to turn around. I moved carefully as if I had a bomb strapped to my back and any sudden movements would set it off. Twilight stood there, her horn shining a bright pink as she stood defensively. I had to force myself to not look away at the sheer hate that she stared at me with. In most cases I would brush it off, but from her it stung much more deeper than I was prepared for.

“Chrysalis.” hissed Twilight. “What are you doing here?” I wanted to state the obvious that this was a public library and I had whatever right to be here, but that didn’t seem like the brightest idea.

“Leaving.” I tried to say it with confidence, but my voice cracked. “I came here for… peaceful reconnaissance and have finished.” Good job, dumbass. Why don’t you mention for five years you stalked her out of some schoolyard crush too?

Twilight raised an eyebrow, not seeming to believe me. I honestly wanted to run, try and escape. The door was still open, but the chance of being hit by her magic was too strong. I could teleport, but a hasty teleport out of a building could prove dangerous. But anything was better than my current alternative.

Just before Twilight could say anything, I quickly teleported while disguising myself. I felt her magic just graze where I was standing as I found myself outside the main doors. Without thinking, I turned and bolted towards the train station, cursing myself for choosing a non-flying pony as a disguise.

I felt a stronger wave a nausea hit me, this time I knew my disguise was gone and took off into the air. Thankful for the ability to fly, I did a turned around and headed towards the cave system in the Everfree that we were based in directly.

I was just barely out of town as more magic whizzed past me. Looking back, Twilight was flying behind me, albeit a little shaky. I pressed onwards, trying to at least making it to the tree line so I could lose her in the dense forest.

I was nearing the trees as pain erupted through my left wing, knocking me out of the sky. I cast a spell to try and correct myself before landing, only barely stopping myself from falling face first. Standing, I ran in hope that I still could make it.

Pain. It washed over me as Twilight hit her mark on the back of my head. I collapsed just outside of the forest. A few more feet and I could have made it. Just before passing out, I saw Twilight standing over me. She gave me the look that showed me that there was no hope for redemption.

Author's Note

So no, the entire story won't be in First Person. Maybe a few character specific chapters, but after the prologue, majority of them will be Third Person. Thank you for putting up with my horrendous writing.

Forced Cooperation

Chrysalis woke up with a moan her body still feeling as if it was ripped apart then set on fire. She recognized the floor she laid on to belong to the Friendship Castle, and a quick look around proved it. The walls were made of pure crystal, the only piece of furniture in the room being the odd one out.

The window had a lavender glow around it, matching the equally glowing door. She didn’t need to try and find her reflection to know she was wearing a magic limiter and the extra weight on her neck meant she was chained to the ground. All in all, she woke up to much worse conditions.

The queen sighed as she laid down, cursing her timing as she should have been back in the hive by now, relaxing in the hot springs in the caves. She also cursed herself for being so stupid and not leaving much earlier.

She perked up as she heard movement on the other side of the door, wincing as the sudden movement flared up her wounds. Soon, the magic around the door dissipated and opened to reveal a site that only dropped Chrysalis’ heart lower.

Within the time she was knocked out, no only was she thrown into a makeshift dungeon, the other three princesses were called and arrived in a timely manner in which a business pony during rush hour would envy. The four princesses quickly filled the semi small room, causing the queen to back into the wall out of fear and general curtsy.

Cadence and Twilight both glared holes straight through her, making Chrysalis quickly wish she would be executed already. Meanwhile, Luna seemed bored of the situation and slightly tired as if she was just taken out of bed. Celestia, however held a neutral look that showed no hate, but did not feel welcoming either.

“Queen Chrysalis, I almost thought we’d never see you again.” said Celestia, raising an eyebrow. “But a pony specializing in Couples Counseling in Ponyville within walking distance of Twilight is a little obvious, isn’t it?”

“If it was obvious, why did it take five years and a freak coincidence to catch me?” The princess’ cheeks turned crimson as Luna snickered. With a sigh, Chrysalis stood. “Whether it took five years doesn’t matter. I really have nothing planned aside from a very well needed hot bath since it feels like I was sat on by Tirek.”

“Then why were you in my library!” snapped Twilight. Chrysalis avoided eye contact, clearing her throat before answering.

“It is a public library, is it not? Shocking as it may be, I do like a good novel every so often. It is an escape from the harsher reality.” The queen scuffed the ground, gaining a look from Celestia.

“Then why Ponyville, may I ask?” The queen sighed, sitting back down.

“Well, after the failure of our last hope, I left to find more about the group of ponies responsible. Their leader more in particular.” said the Queen. Cadence, now intrigued, leaned forward a little.

“What do you mean ‘Last Hope’? I thought your goal was to rule over Equestria and use us as a buffet?” Chrysalis chuckled.

“Not quite. Love to a Changeling is as vital as food. We get calories to use for energy from regular food. Meat, veggies, sweets, etc. Nutrients, however, come in the sweet form of Love. An Invisible concept that we can detect and feed on.” Chrysalis paused a moment, looking over to find that Twilight found herself a quill and paper and was fiercely taking notes. Chuckling, she continued.

“Malnutrition and sickness due to the lack of a strong immune system has plagued our race for the past decade. Canterlot was a last effort as all other options failed. I wanted to avoid it, but it seemed that the rest of the race seemed in a hurry to fix things.” Silence befell the room, the princesses mulling over the information they received.

“But why didn’t you just ask for assistance?” asked Twilight, stepping a little closer. “Asking for help would have been a much easier solution and would have avoided unnecessary conflict.” Chrysalis chuckled.

“So if a race of bugs that no one has ever heard of comes asking to feed off of love from your country, you would open your arms?” Twilight ducked her head, shying away. Chrysalis sighed. “Changelings are not the most pretty of species, our presence instills fear and the thought of something feeding off of your most prized emotion is not a comforting one. You would have turned us away and we would be in the same position as we are now.”

“I have to agree with her.” said Celestia, shaking her head. “Without our current knowledge of what has happened, it would be unlikely we would have accepted. If I did, the public outlash would have been severe and our ties would be severed by the ponies of Equestria.”

“I do have a suggestion.” Luna stepped forward. “If we play our cards right, we can support the changelings by creating a merger with the Chrysalis. To us, it would be a political movement to help ensure their growth, but to the public, we would have captured her and gave her the option of this or imprisonment.”

“They would still be mad.” pointed out Chrysalis. “I bet there are a lot of ponies that would rather see my head mounted on a stake before they accepted me as an ally of Equestria.”

“But then you would be protected by international law.” added Cadence. “If another country or individual tried to attack you, Equestria and it’s allies would defend you as it would any other of it’s allies. It would be illegal and be punishable with severe consequences.”

“So the punishment of trying to kill you would be equal to kill one of us.” said Celestia. Chrysalis thought it over. Her options were pretty obvious. She would either have to side with the princesses and be considered one with international protection, or refuse the offer to save her dignity and be imprisoned while her kingdom suffers. Not much of a choice.

“I will have to accept then, don’t I?” sighed Chrysalis. “I will do whatever I can to ensure the wellbeing of my race. I have let them done too many times.” Twilight shook her head and stepped forward.

“How can we just let you be a part of our country with the protection as a princess? You attacked our capital, kidnapped a princess, and inured Princess Celestia! How can we just ignore all of this? She could have lied about her race being in danger and just wanted the powe-”

“I DO NOT WASTE LIVES FOR AMUSEMENT, SPARKLE!” screamed Chrysalis. The changeling was pushing the bounds of her restraints, having backed the smaller alicorn against the wall. “I may have lied and cheated my way into Canterlot, and my main skills may be lying, but going on an invasion for personal gain when the odds of succeeding are low, IS NOT something I indulge in.”

“If I really wanted the throne for power, would you really find me sulking around Ponyville for five fucking years as a couples counselor? Wouldn’t it make sense for me to be where my enemy is, plotting her downfall? Hell, if I really did care, you guys gave me numerous opportunities to strike when you were down. But instead I stayed helping a big red farm horse confess his love to a school teacher.”

“I have been trying to solve the issue with my people with as minimal conflict as possible, and maybe get out of the depression we fell into. My choices are to be a political prisoner, another royal of Equestria to try and help my people, or find myself in a jail cell for the rest of my unnaturally long life. Which do you think I chose?” Chrysalis sighed, sitting back down in the corner. “Whether you like it or not, it is my only choice and I will stick by it until my unnatural death.”

The room stayed quiet, the only to be heard was the birds outside. Chrysalis had exhausted herself and wanted nothing more but for this to be over. While she didn’t like the idea of being a pet of the Princesses, she would do what she had to for the betterment of her people. Finally, clearly her throat, Celestia spoke.

“Well, we go and discuss the terms of our arrangement before you make anything final. Until then, feel free to roam, just keep yourself disguised when in public areas.” Twilight opened her mouth to object, but a quick look from Celestia kept her quiet. The four alicorns left the room single file, Chrysalis’ restraints disappearing as the door closed. The Changeling queen sighed, laying herself down.

“This is going to be interesting.”

An Understanding

Chrysalis found herself sitting down with the four Alicorns back down at the crystal table in that the mane six normally sat around. Twilight had a stack of parchment almost a foot thick in front of her, a little overkill in her opinion. Celestia glanced at the documents before clearing her throat.

“So all agreed that you will stay with Twilight for the first few months of our new… relationship so you can get accustomed to how we do things and so you are exposed to a smaller group of ponies before we try and release you in the streets of Canterlot. For obvious reasons, we want the public to warm up to you first.”

“Your announcement will be held next week at the castle.” chimed in Luna. “You are required to attend as a speaker. We recommend you prepare a speech to try and calm the minds of the public of your presence. We also are allowing you to go back to your hive and break the news to them yourself, but under the supervision of one of us.”

“We want to wait until things have calmed before you bring the other changelings to Equestria.” said Cadence. “If we immediately bring an entire race into Equestria we would have a witch hunt on our hands. People against our movement would immediately seek them out.”

“You are requested to keep your shape shifting to a minimum.” said Twilight. The mare didn’t seem to be making eye contact, but rather eye contact with the wall behind her. “Only shapeshift in emergency situations, to try and maintain trust with the public. How you get your love is up to you as long as it is within reason.”

“I see… “ Chrysalis eyeballed the stack of paperwork before turning her gave back to the others at the table. “I don’t hold any actual power aside from making sure my changelings don’t go on a murderous spree?”

“For now, yes. If we gave you any actual power, the public would be in outrage due to previous actions made by you.” Celestia pointed to the stack that Twilight brought. “All the paperwork states is what we said and that you are a speaker of the changelings. Your rank of Queen will need to be removed to prevent you being of higher power. Princess will be your current title.”

“Nothing ideal but I will accept.” said Chrysalis. The next hour was Twilight officially reading off the documents and Chrysalis becoming rather annoyed by the number of signature points on the document. Finally, the stack was finished, legally binding her to Equestria.

After goodbyes were said, Twilight and Chrysalis found themselves alone in the main hall. Neither spoke a word, standing there at the door, occasionally kicking a hoof. Finally, with a sigh, Chrysalis spoke.

“So, since we have nothing better to do, is there anything you would like to know about changelings?” As she expected, Twilight’s eyes perked up, gaining that eager glint in her. Chrysalis could only chuckle as she moved over the table, Twilight already summoning a stack of parchment. “Ask away.”

“Exactly how does your transformation work? Is it a spell or rather something you are born with?” Chrysalis thought for a minute, breaking down the process in her head before answering.

“Kinda both really.” said the former Queen. “By imaging what we want we can change our appearance. I could fill in the holes in my hooves, make my horn straight, etc. But if it was much more, like changing height or gender, I need to use magic to make the change. So when transforming into another pony, it is a two part process. It’s normally easier for us to make our own pony that doesn’t require any drastic changes.”

“But what about objects? Is that possible?”

“It is, I can change color of it, but the general shape requires magic. It’s a lot more taxing to pull off, and we can’t maintain a transformation when exhausted.” Twilight nodded, her pen scribbling faster than one would think possible.

“So how similar is you culture compared to that of a bug, if you don’t mind me asking?” Chrysalis chuckled.

“Less than you think. Aside from our appearance, hive like nature, and parasitic dependence on love, we are like other ponies. Except, we are forced to live in caves and makeshift homes to stay hidden. Cultures are similar, desires, mating, etc. We are very ugly ponies, basically.”

“So how does your hive like mind work then? I don’t hear you making chittering noises, nor do you have antennae.”

“Telepathy. We convey emotions, thoughts, and ideas to each other in brief telepathic communication. Either to a specific changeling, or to multiple. It is how we can make orders without shouting it over a chaotic battlefield, making orders easier to be heard and followed.”

“Are all changelings taught how to transform into other ponies and steal love?”

“Are all predators taught how to hunt to gather food for themselves? It is the same concept. Love does not give us calories to function, but rather nutrition to keep healthy. It provides a nutrition that we require, but ponies can live without. We need to teach our young how to get it themselves, so they can keep themselves strong.”

“Okay, was I the only one being spied on?” Twilight set down her pen, eyeing Chrysalis. The changeling raised and eyebrow, sighing.

“No. I have kept a rather specific detail on each of the Princesses. Hobbies, patterns, likes, dislikes, plans, daily business, etc. I can even tell you that Celestia has recently been seeing a doctor due to high blood pressure and has been told to cancel a week worth of court to relax. Other countries do the same, it is not a new thing, just one we don’t like to think about.”

“Wait, you mean everything about us? How is that possible? We would have noticed sooner or later!”

“Considering I have a changeling that has seen your brother and sister do so very uncouth things in the bedroom personally, I’d say unlikely.” Chrysalis laughed as Twilight turned red. “Changelings are natural spies. We can blend into our environment and gather whatever information we seek. Our victim will not know until it is too late.” Twilight was quiet for a moment, mulling over what she learned.

“Okay, what do you know?” Chrysalis grinned. This was a good time for gossip.

“Alright. Princess Celestia is a sucker for cake. She eats one with each meal, a slice larger than most would eat. Due to her addiction, she has been super conscious about it going to her flank and I can tell you that it has definitely grown. Luna on the opposite hand is a hardcore gamer. Video Games have basically been her addiction and favorite thing about this time period since she has returned. Now, do you want some dirt about your siblings over in the Crystal Empire?”

Twilight, who had been quietly taking the knowledge sheepishly nodded. Chrysalis chuckled. “Cadence isn’t the Princess of Love for her big heart alone. While it is her main expertise, lust is another thing she excels at, and your brother is all for it. The two have a VERY open relationship.” Chrysalis couldn’t help but chuckle as Twilight turned away blushing.

They were quiet for a while, just sitting at the table. Chrysalis let out a content sigh. “I never really got to have this sort of freedom. I always had to stay in character, not give in to self-indulgence while in disguise. I never really got to speak my mind as myself, just as someone who is expected to reply in a certain way to not blow my cover.”

“Don’t you talk with other changeling’s about these things?” asked Twilight, finally coming down from her embarrassment.

“Hardly.” huffed the former Queen. “As their Queen, they have enormous amounts of respect, and in some ways fear, of me. It's like Princess Celestia. If you haven’t been around her personally for enough time, you are afraid of her because you only know her as a ruler, not as a pony. It’s why most ponies are baffled at the informality you two share.”

“Because most people are afraid of her.” said Twilight catching on. Chrysalis nodded.

“If you ignored the fact I invaded Canterlot, looked past our obvious differences, and just brought it down to another royal being, I am terrifying to the normal pony due to my rank alone. So me having a casual conversation is impossible. If you ask Celestia, Luna, or your sister, they’ll say the same.”

“I see. Even a few other ponies have started to become wary of me, just because I’m a princess now.” said Twilight, she had a look on her face of bitter acceptance.

“Becoming a princess is a great honor, but it holds severe consequence. That is the double edge on becoming such a massive public figure, one any leader of any country would sympathize with.”

Author's Note

I literally had no idea how to end this. I'm sorry.

A Trip to the Hive

Three days had passed since the forced cooperation between Chrysalis and Twilight. After building up her courage, the two of them decided they would head out to the hive to break the news of their new alliance. Having hoped to put it off longer, but ultimately forced by Princess Celestia, Chrysalis had no choice.

After packing up supplies for the trip and a quick transformation into True Heart, the two of them headed out towards the Everfree, Twilight questioning their chosen path. “Are you certain the Everfree is the only way to your hive?”

“Yes” Chrysalis said with a sigh. “We put it in the Everfree Forest to prevent other ponies from discovering it. Well, except a zebra. She was rather calm about it all and didn’t rat us out. She occasionally comes to the hive for medical assistance.”

“You mean Zecora knew of your existence all this time and didn’t turn you in? That's harboring a felon!” Chrysalis huffed.

“She lives away from civilization and saw other beings in need and assisted them. I hardly doubt that is grounds to be arrested for. In my opinion, she was well within reason to do so.” The two of them stayed quiet as they entered the forest, Twilight hesitating just at the edge before entering.

“If it is alright with you,” started Chrysalis, keeping her eyes out for stray creatures. “I want to stop by Zecora’s hut since it is on the way and not far off from the hive. I think she should be there for the announcement.”

To the reluctance of Twilight, the two of them headed down the familiar path to Zecora’s hut. Twilight had the route memorized, having been to the zebra’s hut numerous times to socialize, or due to antics by the other elements of harmony. Chrysalis herself knew it well, having visited the zebra for some tea and to heal wounds on a few occasions.

The two of them quietly admired the odd beauty of the forest. While it was a wild, untamed beast, it had a sort of calm to it that was both offsetting and attracting in nature. It was truly a one in a kind forest.

Eventually, the smell of burning incense and herbs dominated the air. Soon, the lights from Zecora’s hut was visible. There was a thick stream of smoke coming from the chimney. Chrysalis strode up to the door of the hut, giving it a swift knock. After a series of shuffling on the other side, the door cracked open.

“Ah, Queen Chrysalis. Wasn’t expecting you today.” said Zecora, opening the door to let them in. Twilight raised her eyebrow at the zebra as they enter her hut. “I also wasn’t expecting you to have company.”

“A new alliance of sorts.” shrugged the changeling, sitting on the lone cot in the corner. “Hopefully it doesn’t end in flames like usually.”

“Indeed. I don’t want a repeat of the trip after your invasion. It took weeks to replenish my stock.” The zebra sighed as she went back to the cauldron in the center of the room. “So what is it that brought you to my hut today?”

“Wait a second, why aren’t you rhyming like allways?” said Twilight squinting her eyes at the zebra. Zecora blinked before chuckling.

“It is difficult to make a continuous rhyme and hold a conversation. Plus, Chrysalis asked for me not to rhyme around her for the sake of being able to understand what I am saying better.” The changeling shrugged.

“Having to try and figure out meanings to words is a skill I want to save for when I am on a mission, not having a casual conversation.” Clearing her throat, Chrysalis turned to Zecora. “Anyways, we came to invite you to the hive. I need to make a speech regarding our new… alliance and the changes that will evidently take place in a few months.”

The zebra stared hard at her brew for a moment before sighing. “What happens between your race and the Equestrians is none of my concern. Whatever happens I will still aid you when you are injured and need remedies. As long as you do not drag me into whatever war may become of this if it goes wrong.”

“Very well.” said Chrysalis as she stood. The changeling walked towards the door, stopping right at the threshold. “You have been a great friend, Zecora. I promise to make it up to you one of these days.”

“No more invasions would be nice.” quipped the zebra with a smirk. Chrysalis chuckled as she left the hut, Twilight in tow. The alicorn was still in a state of confusion on what just happened.

The next half hour was spent in silence as the two of them walked towards the hive. Twilight began to get nervous as the forest got thicker as they went. She could not tell if Chrysalis was truly leading her to the hive or just to her demise.

Finally, the two of them stopped in front of a cliff face. Twilight blinked, turning to the changeling. “This...can’t be it. There’s nothing here!” Chrysalis laughed at the mare.

“Twilight, you are talking to a changeling. You should never believe what you see.” The changeling took a few steps back before suddenly sprinting headlong into the cliff. Twilight was about to ask her what she was thinking when the changeling suddenly went through the wall.

The mare blinked, baffled by her sudden disappearance. Taking a deep breath, she took a few steps back before running towards the wall. Just before impact, she winced. She kept her eyes closed until she realized she didn’t anything. Opening her eyes, she found herself in a well lit cave with Chrysalis chuckling at her.

“Ingenious, yes? At first glance and feel, the wall is whole. But when you run into the center, it is nothing but an illusion. I learned it from a few foreign ponies I met a couple years back.” Twilight looked back at the wall she went through before following behind Chrysalis down the cave.

Green crystals lined either side of the wall, washing the cave with bright light. The cave then opened up into a large dome that was split into three stories, the two of them entering from above. Twilight could only look on in awe as the green lit room swarmed with changelings flying from one place to another.

“This place is massive.” said Twilight in awe. Chrysalis laughed guiding her towards the staircase down. “How did you manage to build this place? Was this already existing or did you have to make it?”

“Lots and lots of digging magic.” said Chrysalis, walking down towards the center of the room where her throne sat. “We spent about three months digging out the cave, and for the longest while all the hid it was a crappy bush. Kinda ameture for a race a spies, to be honest.”

Twilight looked around her, every changeling was stopping what they were doing and staring at her. She could not gauge their emotions and began to get nervous. “Ignore them.” said Chrysalis, snapping her out of her thoughts. “They won’t try anything with me next to you. They know if they do it would be met with great consequences.”

“You're acting like you actually care.” said Twilight with a raise of her eyebrow. Chrysalis blushed, coughing uncomfortably. The alicorn was about to say something as the changeling queen flared her wings, flying the rest of the way to the throne. Rolling her eyes, Twilight did the same, landing just next to her.

Chrysalis watched as the floor around the throne quickly filled with curious changelings. Soon, the entire population of the hive was gathered before her, waiting for an explanation why she brought a pony into their hive.

“I am not prepared for this.” mumbled the queen.

Diplomatic Speeches

Chrysalis has spoken to her changelings like this many times before. However, a speech about invading a city and a speech about assimilating together with another country to avoid arrest is another thing. She did not prepare for this speech, and is left only with wondering how she is going to move forward.

Twilight looked up at her confused as Chrysalis just stared out into the crowd, silent. “Did you not plan for this?” she whispered to Chrysalis.

“I may have put it off.” said Chrysalis with a nervous smile. The Changeling Queen sighed. Finally, with a deep breath, she spoke.

“As it has been known over the course of the past five years, our race has been battling in secret with the Equestrians. After our failed attempt to capture the capital in an idiotic effort to gather love, we have laid in hiding, trying to swallow our defeat. However, through...unfortunate events, our two nations were able to sit down and discuss our situation.

“In an attempt to help us gather the love required to live, the Changelings and Equestria will unite under one nation, each changeling getting citizenship to the country, under the belief that we will respect their laws and customs as well as gether love in a more appropriate manner. Capturing a pony and putting them in sustained sleep while we live their lives is not acceptable anymore. Any captured ponies need to be released once the drones in the field are informed and brought back.

“It will take several months before our two races are allowed to merge. For now, we must make do. A few hundred will be allowed entrance into the country undisguised until we give a date to allow all changelings to be citizens. This is only to keep backlash down.” Like Twilight, even Chrysalis can’t tell how the crowd before her was reacting at first glance. But a single dip into the hive mind revealed a vast amount of emotion. From joy for the war to be over, to outrage for them surrendering so easily.

For the next hour, Chrysalis tried to explain the situation and how it will affect them in the next year. Unfortunately, there was still a fair number she could not convince. Finally, after ending the meeting and allowing the changelings to continue their work, Chrysalis slumped into her throne with a sustained sigh. Twilight walked up next to her with a raised eyebrow.

“I guess that went well?” The alicorn looked around the hive, watching the drones buzz around them. “It is hard to tell what they are thinking. And here I thought trying to speak to nobels was difficult.”

“Nobels are stuck up, selfish assholes. These are drones that have their own lives and work, have hobbies and interests. They are like an everyday pony, which means they have a lot more riding on this than either of us.” Chrysalis groaned. “A lot of them think I am leading them to ruin and I think they are right.”

“There was no easy answer and you knew that.” said Twilight. The alicorn sat next to the Queen on the floor. “Before it was starve, try to negotiate with a country that might see you as a threat, or try to take the love by force in an effort that was futile to begin with. Now, it was ruin or a slight hope for a future. It won’t be easy but Equestria wasn’t exactly a united country with flourishing lands.”

“More like civil war and harsh conditions.” scoffed Chrysalis. “I heard of those times. Changelings did as bad then as we are now. No love can be found in a war zone.” She sighed, standing up off your throne. “I guess you are right. Ruin or not, we have to try and push forward. Maybe, just maybe, things will look better.”

Looking for a change of topic, Chrysalis started off towards the back of the dome. “Well, I planned on showing you the hive, so might as well start with the kitchen since I skipped breakfast to come here.” Curious, Twilight followed behind.

Twilight didn’t know what she expected. Possibly a large amount of bugs and insects ready to be eaten, no real furniture. But surprisingly, the large kitchen tasked with feeding the hive, a population almost half of Canterlot, was fully stocked with modern utensils in a tiled room. Unlike the rock walls of the rest of the hive, this was the only room that used tiled floors and walls, a shocking transition from the rest of the hive.

“We usually have drones do a weekly stockpile of food so we can have the essential meals that any race needs.” said Chrysalis, leading her through the busy kitchen. “Every changeling knows how to cook for themselves, but we try to feed everyone in the hive all at the same time to save space. We are underground, but there are many other cave systems around here and it would be easy to screw up and collapse a few of them or ours.”

“That has to be a ridiculous amount of food, how do you even stay stocked?” asked Twilight. In response, all the workers shook their heads while Chrysalis coughed awkwardly.

“Prison meals, basically.” said the Queen. “Small meals that are enough to do the job even if they aren’t very appetizing half the time. The downside of feeding a large cities worth of changelings.”

The two of them sat down for a quick meal. As expected, it wasn’t much and it did look like something she’d expect in prison. She poked at her meal while the Queen quickly ate her fill. Twilight just let her have her’s as well, not really hungry anymore.

Next, Chrysalis led them off towards where they kept both their captured ponies and storages of love. Upon entering, Twilight was greeted with the familiar site of the pods that Celestia and others were trapped in during the invasion. There was roughly fifty of them hanging from the low ceiling, none of the ponies trapped inside she recognized.

“The pods are completely harmless.” said Chrysalis, walking along the rows of pods. “They keep the pony safe from outside harm, occasionally stimulate muscles to prevent muscle deterioration if placed in there for long periods, and keeps them fully hydrated and fed. And, right before release, we normally fill them in on what has happened while they were gone by implanting memories, then they wake up in their bed back home.”

“So, they never know they were captured or anything?” asked Twilight, poking one of the pods with a hoof. She jumped back with a yelp as the pony inside twitched. Chrysalis chuckled.

“Nope. To them, they lived their life like normal. Maybe they feel a little odd, but that is about it.”

“Why didn’t you put Cadence in a pod during the invasion? When I met her in the caves, she was wandering around in there on her own.” Chrysalis huffed, casting a glance at the changeling guarding the room, who sheepishly looked away.

“I didn’t capture Cadence. I hoped my spies in the castle were able to take care of her. Of course, I didn’t find out till later that they neglected to subdue her correctly and just dumped her in the caves. So, in return, they are stuck doing pod duty until I see fit.” The Queen sighed. “It was a stupid mistake, one that is basic in our line of work.”

Twilight looked at the pods, letting out a sigh. “Maybe this should be something the rest of the public shouldn’t know about. Even if it is completely harmless, the press will find a way to make it out to be something that drains years away from your health, or something obscene.”

“I don’t understand why your press feels the to bend everything that is said.” scoffed Chrysalis, walking towards the exit. “Something positive is suddenly negative, something horrible is now good, a harmless substance should be illegal because it is bad. It is preying on the fear of the public, something not even I would do. And I feed on love.”

“It is how things are.” sighed Twilight, following behind the Queen. “Celestia has tried numerous times to make things better, but of course, the press does their thing and she has to stop before it makes things worse. It all comes down to money, as it is what drives them. The more controversial the topic, the more people buy their paper. Sometimes, things that are going on aren’t enough. Sometimes, they need to make their own story, and then we have the problem at hand.”

The two of them stayed quiet as they looked over the balcony of the hive. Chrysalis sighed. “Lots of changes are about to happen. Soon, all of this will be nothing but a big hole in the ground.”

“But it’s for the betterment of your hive, right?” asked Twilight. “Its why you said you were doing this. Everything might seem too much and too fast, but it's just how things are.”

“Coming from the mare who suddenly sprouted wings.” said Chrysalis said with a chuckle. “I guess you’re right, again. I guess this is all new to me since it's been more or less of the same for...centuries, really.” With a sigh, the changeling pushed herself off of the railing. “Enough of this petty talk. We need to get back and start planning about my next speech.”

About Chrysalis

Celestia let out a tired sigh as Day Court came to close, the doors to the throne room closing out any ponies from entry before they had a chance to try and get to talk to the princess further. Only Cadence, the royal scribe, a few dozen guards, and herself remained.

“If I swear another noble points out my lack of a suitor, I will personally ban them all to the moon.” said Celestia, letting out a rather unladylike groan. Cadence giggled, standing from her seat next to Celestia.

“They would just bicker about what portion of the moon was theirs.” joked Cadence. Celestia shook her head, standing to walk along her niece. “Besides, you remember the tons of suitors that chased after me before anyone knew about Shining and I.”

“A dozen every day.” said Celestia with a soft a smile. “It makes me wonder if our newest princess has to deal with anything similar. She is almost as old as Luna and I, only a hundred or so years younger.

“Possibly, but no one really knows how mating really works for changelings.” Cadence chuckled. “Though Twilight will be the first to find out, no matter the differences between her and Chrysalis.” The two of them shared a laugh as they left the throne room.

“I would not put it past her. However, I am sure those two will get over their differences rather quickly.” said Celestia. Cadence raised an eyebrow at the older mare.

“About that, I sensed that Chrysalis was in Ponyville for a more… personal reason. Your decision to put them together wasn’t because you sensed the same thing I did, was it?” asked Cadence. Celestia let out a sigh, coming to a stop in front of one of the large windows overlooking the courtyard.

“Yes, I did sense there was more going on than she let on; I actually knew it.” said Celestia, getting a look from Cadence. “I watched Queen while we interviewed her. She was more interested in Twilight, keeping her focus on her instead of us. Whenever Twilight would raise her voice and accuse Chrysalis, I could see that her words cut deeper than Twilight knew.”

“You think its love Chrysalis feels for Twilight.” said Cadence. Celestia nodded.

“So I put them together, let them connect and get to know each other better; Well, let Twilight get to know Chrysalis better, that is.” said Celestia. The two of them stood in silence for a while as the sun slowly set. After awhile, Celestia’s horn gave off a faint glow as she lowered the sun.

Once the moon made it’s place in the sky, Celestia let out a deep sigh. “I feel sorry for Chrysalis. Unlike the citizens of Equestria, she was raised knowing that she was not socially accepted, she would be hated and turned away. What others would see as evil was a necessity of life for her and her people. Maybe trying to help them is my way of trying to mend centuries of pain that has been caused by ignorance and arrogance.”

“You know as well as I do that you had nothing to do with thi-” Cadence was cut off as Celestia suddenly scoffed, turning away.

“Of course I do! Your wedding wasn’t the only time that changelings appeared. The first time I was a young naive ruler that just saw them as some pest that could be stomped out. What the earth ponies tried to do to the unicorns in the pilgrim days I did to the changelings. If there was one seen it was killed, burned, disposed of.” Celestia let out a sigh. “I thought I was doing good but was only hurting somepony who never hurt anypony. They just looked scary and did something we weren’t used to.”

Celestia shook her head. “It was over a thousand years ago, but I know Chrysalis won’t forgive me for what I did to her those many years ago.”

After spending the last couple hours talking about how Chrysalis would present her speech to the public of Equestria, the two of them decided to head from the busy hive center to Chrysalis’ personal living area.

An entire section of rooms and tunnels were dedicated for the Queen’s living. Spanning from a full library that Twilight would appreciate to a full bedroom and living room.

“I am having one of the drones bring in an extra bed,” said Chrysalis as she guided Twilight into the living room. “As a guest, I can’t really have you sleeping on a couch or the floor, and too many years have made sleeping on anything but a good mattress torture for me.”

The younger mare took look around the rather spacious room that she found herself in. Aside from the few chairs and end tables, there was not much on the floor. However, the walls were covered in various maps and paintings, as well as a fireplace and bookshelves built into the walls.

One painting caught Twilight’s attention; a portrait of a changeling that look similar to Chrysalis, but instead of the green, she was a sapphire blue with a smile that could tame the wildest of hearts. Chrysalis caught the mare’s gaze and gave a soft chuckle.

“Queen Pupa. A rather odd name considering it is also used with infant insects, but she was a well loved leader among changelings in more than just this hive.” said Chrysalis wistfully. “Don’t let the smile fool you, though. She was fierce and a strict mother.” Twilight blinked before turning to the former Queen.

“You mean she was your mother?”

“Did you think I crawled out of tartarus in full adulthood?” asked Chrysalis with a chuckle. “Yes, she had me and my younger sister around the time Celestia and Luna took power. According to her, she said that they would be the ones that would save us from our lives of hiding.” Chrysalis’ smille slowly faded, looking off in the distance. “Unfortunately this wasn’t true.”

“The changeling hunt…” said Twilight, connecting the dots. Chrysalis nodded.

“I had to be in my thirties. My mother was teaching me how to be a leader when the first changeling was caught in what would be Canterlot. It was a drone who was on his first love hunt on his own. According to the report he captured his target with ease and had easily slipped into his life. However, his intel didn’t say anything about an affair with a messenger that bounced between there and the next town over. He was caught when he failed to recognize her.”

“He was then publicly executed and a watch was put out for more…” finished Twilight.

“What your books failed to report was that the drone was tortured for a week before the execution and that he begged for death by the time he was granted it. Your princess did the deed herself.”

“You’re wrong! Princess Celestia would never-”

“Your Princess did!” growled Chrysalis, causing Twilight to step back. Chrysalis took a deep breath a continued. “Five others were caught before me, my sister and my mother went to confront the Princesses. My mother and my sister went in to talk with her while I pretended to be a guard while the other one was in his barracks puking his brains out via a well place nausea spell.

“Celestia didn’t give them a chance when they dropped their disguises. They cried for peace and they were tortured before being executed by the princess herself. I couldn’t do anything but watch. I knew if I dropped my disguise the same would happen. I would be executed alongside them and it would only be a matter of time before the rest of the hive met the same fate.”

Twilight said nothing, she avoided eye contact as she mulled over what she heard. Chrysalis let out a sigh, putting a hoof on the younger mare’s shoulder, causing her to jump. “I may not ever forgive Celestia completely for what she did, but my many years alive have taught me that hate is dangerous and I can’t hold onto it forever. Nightmare Moon is a prime example. This is why I want things to change. Maybe now that times have changed, we actually have a chance.”

“I can only hope history doesn’t repeat itself… “

Canterlot

Chrysalis stared out the window of the private train car she shared with Twilight. In the distance, the city of Canterlot stood in all of its glory. As they got closer, Chrysalis made sure to turn into the guise of True Heart, having to keep her presence a secret until they held the speech later that evening.

“I don’t like the feeling of this, Twilight.” said Chrysalis, pushing herself away from the window. “I understand the risks I have to take to reach peace, but something doesn’t feel right.” Twilight looked up from her book she brought along.

“Not right how?” asked Twilight. “We spent the last week figuring out your speech, the other Princesses have filled in the guards of your coming and have formed a protection detail for you led by Shining, and no one aside from us know what the public meeting is for.”

“And yet it doesn’t feel right.” said Chrysalis with a sigh. “I can’t explain it, but maybe I have become too cautious for my own good over the ages.” The changeling shook her head, closing the blinds so she could change into her natural form. “Since we have some time before we reach Canterlot, I’ll answer some more questions.” said Chrysalis, locking the door of the cabin. Twilight giddily exchanged her ‘light’ reading material for a notepad and pen, sitting at the edge of her seat.

“So first, I remember you mentioning there being more than one hive, how many are there?” asked Twilight, her pen at ready. Chrysalis leaned back, seemingly in deep thought.

“I am not sure what the last count was. Originally when my mother and her sister’s split to create their own hives across the world, there was only four. However, as they had children, they tried to expand. For example, my sister was supposed to create a hive off to the west of Equestria and I was supposed to make one in close proximity to Canterlot. Unless there have been more, there are about eight hives with four main hives and queens. Though, my hive fell out of the secret circle when the hunt happened so I don’t know much about them anymore.”

“Is your hive the only one that has been found?” asked Twilight. Chrysalis winced slightly, looking away.

“Unfortunately, yes. We were removed from the inner works because they didn’t want to get caught as well. Once this goes public, I will probably get a rather unpleasant visit from them in fear of being found by residents of the countries they live in.”

“So you are at risk from not only opposition from ponykind, but your own kind?” asked Twilight, setting down her notebook. Chrysalis nodded solemnly, standing up and pacing back and forth.

“Changelings are a secretive race out of need and not want. We all know the consequence of discovery and that fear has kept us from trying to make peace for as long as I can remember. All I can really hope for is that I at least live to see the next day.” said Chrysalis with a sigh.

“If the risk is great, why take it? I know your motive, but it has a great chance of backfiring, ruining everything that we have worked to accomplish. Why take that big of a risk?” asked Twilight. Chrysalis scoffed, shaking her head.

“Because if I don’t try, no one will. We will forever be hunted, hide like monsters, and act like them. We are not the monsters we are made out to be and no one will see that if I don’t do something about it. I’d rather lose my life trying than not trying at all.” Chrysalis sighed, sitting back down. “Enough of this depressing talk. What is the plans for today?” Twilight nodded, bring out the scroll that the princesses sent the day before.

“Well, the plan is for us to spend the night in main section of the castle and not in the guest wing so there is more security. After we settle in and get something to eat, we are free until later this evening. After the speech, you are expected to stay in your natural form and stay in for the rest of the night.” Twilight closed up the scroll. “Tomorrow, the princesses want you to walk around Canterlot, making your presence known and getting to know the residents before we go back to Ponyville.”

“That sounds like a good way to get me killed.” said Chrysalis with a sigh. “Any other city, my deeds might be forgotten, but considering how much damage I’ve done in Canterlot, it’ll be risky.”

“I knew that, so I may have asked for some assistance that you may or may not approve of…” said Twilight with a sheepish grin. Chrysalis narrowed her eyes, prompting the princess to explain. “I may have gathered a small amount of drones to act as bodyguards within a small radius of us.”

“I am not sure if I should be mad you commanded my changelings or impressed that you actually convinced them to listen.” said Chrysalis with a sigh. “No less, the gesture is appreciated.” The two of them sat in silence, waiting out the time.

“Oh how I’ve missed these beds.” sighed Chrysalis, flopping onto the bed that was provided for her. In a flash of green she rid herself of her disguise as Twilight walked in, a guard carrying in their luggage.

“The beds her are the softest in Equestria.” stated Twilight, raising an eyebrow as the changeling nuzzled deeper into the pillows. “I assume you haven’t slept in a proper bed often.” Chrysalis coughed, rolling onto her back.

“Even when I worked in Ponyville, the bed I had was stiffer than a board. Sleeping on the floor was a much better option.” Chuckling, Chrysalis stood up, pacing the room. “The last I was in a room as lavish as this, it was not meant for me and I was quickly shoved through a glass window a few days later.”

Chrysalis looked around her temporary room, noting that even though it was meant for guests, it was still looked like the princess herself could be sleeping there. The beds were larger than the average, even Chrysalis didn’t fill half the bed and she was only slightly shorter than the sun goddess herself.

The closests were walk-in, leaving plenty of space to move around in if it were full. There was also a large vanity with a selection of make-up, though Chrysalis had no use for a product meant for the fur of a pony and not the chitin of a changeling. There was even a balcony, giving them a view of both the city and the beautiful courtyard.

“And all I have is a collection of rocks and caves.” mumbled Chrysalis. With a hefty sigh, Chrysalis turned to her traveling partner, who was busy unpacking the series of dresses that she borrowed from her friend Rarity. Twilight said she just told her they were for Luna, seeing as they were close in height and size. The result was a green dress with black highlights that actually fit rather snug.

“So how much time do we have till my speech?” asked Chrysalis, watching as the purple alicorn lifted a large stacks of books out of her suitcase.

“Four hours, twenty minutes, and thirty-five seconds.” replied Twilight without even looking at a clock. The changeling queen blinked, not sure how she managed to give such an accurate answer.

“Well, I need to go out and gather love or I will be a walking corpse by then.” stated Chrysalis as she turned into True Heart, the love counselor to Ponyville’s resident’s. “I also never really explored this town since always come here for business. Though, today is not different.”

“Do really have anywhere in particular in mind? We can’t just wander the streets of Canterlot for a couple of hours. It is a large city.” stated to Twilight. Chrysalis paced for a moment, thinking on anywhere in particular.

“I know! I could meet your parents.”

“What?!” stammered Twilight, dropping her books on the floor with a loud thud. “Why do you want to meet my parents?” Chrysalis shrugged.

“We are essentially joined at the hip from here on out. I have only briefly met them and had to pretend I knew all about them, and this has five years ago. Since you can’t meet mine, I might as well meet yours.” said Chrysalis with a slight smile.

“I agree.” The two of them jumped, turning to see Celestia entering the room. “As you two are going to be working together and spending most of your time together, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to get to know your… Twilight’s family. Though I must inform you if you do so it might be better to do so undisguised. As difficult as it seems, it prevents awkwardness later.”

“At the sake of my dad having a heart attack with a Changeling Queen in his living room.” muttered Twilight, letting out a deep sigh. “I guess we can visit them, just try not to spook them too much.”

“I promise.” said Chrysalis with a smile.

“To be fair, I had no idea they react that way.” said Chrysalis, looking at the unconscious bodies of Twilight’s parents. “Though, I think it is safe to say that this will be an interesting couple of hours.

“Instead of making jokes, can you at least help me get them onto the couch?” asked Twilight, trying her hardest not to just turn around and find a hole to live in for the rest of existence.

With a shrug, Chrysalis levitated to two ponies, transfering into their living area. After setting them down, the changeling let her eyes wander around at the many pictures that lined the walls. They ranged from school moments of the two Sparkle siblings to Twilight’s coronation and Shining’s wedding. Chrysalis couldn’t help but wonder what she missed out on when she was younger.

There was a splash of water, prompting Chrysalis to turn around in time to see the unconscious ponies jerk awake from their shock induced coma. They immediately spotted her, flaring up magic and backing into the couch.

“Okay, how about we just put down the magic a second and just talk.” said Chrysalis, sheepishly. That only seemed to make them brighten their magic in ready to use it. Much to her relief, an irritated Twilight walked in between them.

“Mom, Dad, this is Chrysalis. Under a new act that goes into place later tonight, she is now a legal citizen of Equestria and one of the Princesses. Making it very illegal if you use magic on her.” The two older ponies quietly lowered the magic, prompting Twilight to flop onto the nearest chair. “I knew this was a bad idea.” groaned Twilight.

“I wanted to come disguised,” said Chrysalis, taking the adjacent chair. “You can blame Celestia on wanting me to be myself, in a way.” Turning to the still very terrified couple, Chrysalis gave a faint smile. “This is sorta my fault in a way. I wanted to meet you two in a more informal way since I will have to work with Twilight in accordance with this new peace act.”

“Well, I-I suppose it was a nice thought.” said Twilight Velvet with a sheepish smile. “I wish you could have give us more of a, um, warning next time you bring a changeling queen into our home, Twilight.”

“I know, it is sudden, but this whole week has been rather chaotic.” sighed Twilight. After I caught Chrysalis on accident, my whole week has consisted of negotiations, figuring out how to structure the laws to compensate with Chrysalis and her kind, and helping write a speech. To be honest I barely have time to eat.”

“I can agree with that.” said Chrysalis. “It has been a bumpy road, and I fear it will only be get worse from here. This peace act will not be met with the best response, and all I can do is hope for things to pan out like we want.

“Well, we will always be here when things get too much for you two, right dear?” Velvet shot her husband a look, causing him to quickly smile and nod his head. With a satisfied nod, she turned back to them. “Just don’t bring any riots to my lawn, please. My flowers are in bloom and they look gorgeous this time of year.”

“We promise.” said Chrysalis and Twilight in unison. Noticing the time, the two of them quickly said their goodbyes and started to head back towards the castle. The sun was starting to set as the two of them reached the gates of the castle. They hurried to their room to change before the speech.

“I’ll be right back.” said Twilight as Chrysalis pulled her dress out of the closet. “I need to head into the kitchen and eat something before I have to stand in front of the press for the next couple of hours.” Chrysalis simply nodded, staring at the dress before.

She only wore a couple dresses in all of her years, and they were normally put on for her. She could see the amount of detail that was put into the dress and she wasn’t about to ruin it after all the work Rarity put into it.

“Most of her dresses are slip-on.” Chrysalis spun around to see Cadence standing in the doorway. I have a few of Rarity’s dresses myself. I can recognize the stitching.” The door gently shut behind her as she walked into the room. She stopped uncomfortably close to Chrysalis as she inspected the dress. “Could have experimented with the colors more, but I guess she made it without knowing who was wearing it.”

“I’ll have to make sure to thank her on a later date.” said Chrysalis, backing away slightly. “Was there something that you needed?”

“There was a much more personal reason for you spying on Twilight, wasn’t there?” Cadence stared Chrysalis in the eyes. “I know what a crush looks like, Chrysalis. No one spends five years spying on someone then shy away when they raise their voice if they were doing proper reconnaissance. You were trying to find more about her because you have a crush.”

“Had.” said Chrysalis sadly. “I didn’t realize why I was so interested at first. I thought I felt something, looked into it further, and figured out just why I was so intrigued. But the harsh reality is that Twilight will never love a hideous bug monster like me, not after what I did to you and her brother. That’s why I tried to leave, because staying was too difficult after that.”

“Twilight is more caring than you give her credit for.” said Cadence with a smile. “Let her warm up to you, give her a reason to trust you and go from there. There is a good chance that if she likes you for who you really are, things will go well.”

“You actually trust enough to help me with these things?” asked Chrysalis.

“Well I am still rather cautious, but I have a weak spot for possible relationships. Helping a couple together is a guilty pleasure of mine.” said Cadence with a giggle. “And remember, as of tonight you will be a princess like the rest of us. If you ever need help, I am here for you. I understand things will be difficult, but we are all here if you need us.” Chrysalis gave her a small smile.

“Thank you, I really appreciate it. Now, could you help me get this dress on?”

Author's Note

Psst, I finished faster than I expected!

The Start of a New Era

A sea of ponies. That is the best way Chrysalis could explain what was waiting on the steps of the Castle. Outside the castle staff set up a podium for the princesses while the guards acted as a barrier both on the ground in the air. Journalists and bystanders stood waiting for the surprise announcement that Celestia said will take place. Chrysalis could only hope the guards could protect her from the onslaught she will receive when she steps on the podium.

“Nervous?” asked Celestia, standing by the changeling as she peeked out of the crack in the doors.

“Very.” sighed the changeling as she backed away from the doors. “We are making history today, Celestia, for better or worse. It is likely there will be an outlash, I am just not sure how severe it will be.”

“No matter how bad it is, we will be here for support.” said Celestia with a warming smile that wiped away most of Chrysalis’ fears. One of the guards walked into the hall, only giving a small nod before leaving. With a sigh, Celestia motioned for Luna, Cadence, and Twilight to follow her. “Well, it is time to change Equestria. Wait for your cue, you’ll do great.” With that, the four of them left, leaving Chrysalis alone in the hall.

There was a series of flashes from cameras as the princesses walked up to the meeting area. All Chrysalis could think of was her face on the front of the papers with captions reading ‘Chrysalis takes over Canterlot!’. Quickly snapping out of her thoughts, Chrysalis listened to the speech.

“Equestria has always strived to strengthen our ties with the other races of the world. Be it dragons, griffons, zebras, or buffalo, or even our old enemies. Gaining allies and forgiving the deeds of others is how we will strive as a country.”

“And how we will strive as a race.” mumbled Chrysalis along with Celestia. The soon-to-be-former Queen took a deep breath as it came closer for her to enter.

“As such, even though she has caused great pain to our city only five years ago, we have decided to look past that and help a race that has been in dire need and we have only looked the other way till now.”

The sound the Chrysalis could hear was the sound of the double doors opening on their own. There was a brief flash of lights as the photographers started taking pictures, but it soon died out as they realised who was walking out of the castle. She had been in numerous wars, fought beasts twice her size, and crawled through dragon territory beaten and bloody, but nothing prepared her for the shocked silence that she was met with. Taking another deep breath, Chrysalis steeled her nerves and began her speech.

“Five years ago, the changeling race fell into a depression. Love was becoming more difficult to come by as the generations changed, and it has brought my race into a poverty that has seemed impossible to crawl out of. We got desperate, scrounging for whatever we could, whether it be schoolyard crushes, or a flirt from a lonely construction worker towards an attractive mare.”

“Malnutrition plagued our females, causing problems with birthing and causing defects in our young. Our species was dying and there was only one option that I tried to avoid, but I grew hasty and blind with hunger.”

“The invasion of Canterlot was not our finest hour, and is a mistake I wish to atone for. With this new peace act, our two species will live together under one country in peace. As a result, any disguised changelings will be forced to give up their disguise and live out their lives as normal citizens. Eventually, we hope we can coexist in peace, gathering the love we need not by sneaking it by, but as the rest of you do. Making friends, lovers, and just being happy for what we have been given.”

“Now, any questions?” The silence was broken was the air was filled with multiple voices shouting at once, hooves were standing high as cameras flashed. Chrysalis nodded to an azure mare in front, causing the ruckus to simmer down.

“What will your kind do with the ponies you have captured? Is it true that you dispose of them after their purpose is fulfilled?”

“That is not true. Ponies are normally taken peacefully and without harm, are well fed for however long we keep them for, and are returned to their homes only a week later without any indication that they were gone. All current residents of our hive will be returned as soon as possible in perfect condition. We are not monsters, mind you. Next.”

Chrysalis blinked as her senses were assaulted once again. She pointed out again, this time to a stallion.

“With the joining of the races, will you step down from the rank of Queen or are you a higher rank than the princesses?”

“No, as part of our agreement, I am effectively a Princess.” There was a slight tap on her shoulder, turning around to see Celestia motioning for her to switch places. With a nod, she stepped back, taking a spot next to Twilight as Celestia handled the rest of the questions.

“How do you feel?” whispered Twilight. Chrysalis shook her head with a chuckle.

“Like I fought off a bear with just my hooves. I was never a speech giver, and today has just shown me why.” Chrysalis sighed. “This seemed to go better than I expected.”

“The night is not over,” stated Luna, leaning forward. “Demons can still show their faces and bring upon us threats of things to come.”

“A little ominous, Aunty Luna.” piped up Cadence. “I think you need to lay off all those fantasy games you spend all day playing.”

“Only some of the day.” said Luna with a pout. The four of them shared a soft chuckle. The questions went on for another half hour until Celestia finally brought the conference to an end. With a finally bow and wave, the five princesses made their way back into the castle, Chrysalis letting out a heavy sigh as the doors shut.

“I am relieved that the only bad thing that happened was the fart I let go halfway through the speech.” said the changeling with a smirk. Twilight rolled her eyes.

“I never realised how un-ladylike you can be.” groaned Twilight. “I had to keep myself to gagging the entire time.”

“I agree that it all went better than expected,” said Celestia, trying to change the subject. “But we aren’t out of the woods quite yet. By morning, every newspaper in Equestria will have covered tonight’s speech and there are bound to be some who oppose our decisions.”

“Though I think that is enough excitement for me today.” said Cadence with a yawn. “Shining should be finishing his shift soon and I would like to wind down before I head to bed. I will definitely need my energy tomorrow.”

Chrysalis found herself lying in her bed wide awake. Looking at the sky she could tell she only had a few hours before Celestia began the task of raising the sun. She was tired, but now matter how hard she tried she could not sleep.

By the time that ponies started heading out for work, picking up their coffee and reading the newspaper, her face will be on the front page as the enemy of the country who managed to get a royalty position through pure sympathy. Ponies will be outraged, riots are sure to happen, threats will be made, and all because of her mistakes.

The door opened, startling Chrysalis. Twilight walked into the room, candle floating by her head along with a couple books. Before she could ask what she was doing, Chrysalis remembered that Twilight is prone to reading late into the night, sometimes to relax. Chrysalis sighed as she eased herself back under the covers.

“Couldn’t sleep?” asked Chrysalis, turning over to the mare as she set the books onto the desk. With a sigh, Twilight set down the candle before sitting down at the foot of the bed.

“Not really. I never really been a part of Equestria’s politics. In the many years that I lived here before Ponyville, I was never interested in the political side of things. I focused on studying and my magic. I did not care about the nobles that tried to flirt with me because of my status as Celestia’s student.” Twilight chuckled before continuing. “Now in the past week or so, I wrote multiple laws to bring in basically a fugitive into power as an ally. I guess I am just nervous of how this will all play out in the end.”

Chrysalis nodded quietly. She was in the same boat as Twilight, nervous of her actions. Thinking back to what Cadence said early that evening, Chrysalis decided this was a good chance to try and make a better impression on Twilight.

“You didn’t miss much.” said Chrysalis with a smile, moving to the end of the bed. “Politics is a nasty, twisted game that you can never fully predict. As for how things play out, we can’t predict how millions of ponies will react to something and what the consequences will be. We can make educated guesses and theories, but in the end you just have to understand that all you can do is what you think is the best for everyone and try to adapt to the situation.”

“And how about you?” asked Twilight, looking up at her. “You were awake before I came in. You’re just as nervous as me, aren’t you?”

“We all are.” said Chrysalis with a sigh. “We took a huge risk and it will probably end as a mistake that will make everything worse, but they have to if we are going to work to make things better.” Chrysalis let out a chuckle, falling back onto the bed. “Out of all the beasts I have fought, of all the wars I waged, out of everything, I was more afraid on that podium tonight than anywhere else.” Twilight looked up at her in shock.

“Really?” Chrysalis nodded.

“However, despite all this, we need to support each other as equals to get through this.” said Chrysalis with a smile. Looking out of the window, she let out a sigh. “It is getting late, we both need to sleep if we are going to have the energy for tomorrow.” Twilight nodded as she stood, walking towards her bedroom adjacent from Chrysalis’. As the door closed, Chrysalis sighed, covering herself in blankets as she tried again to coax herself to sleep.

From the adjacent tower, Luna watched the light from Chrysalis’ room die out. Celestia walked up behind her, joining her on the balcony overlooking the courtyard. The two of them stayed quiet, taking in the sight of the sky as the chilly wind blew past them.

“Are we really prepared for what will happen in the morning?” asked Luna, turning to her older sister. Celestia stared off for a moment, taking a sip from her coffee.

“Are we ever prepared for the decisions we make?” asked Celestia. “We both know that you can try to prepare yourself for what is to come the best you can, but it is never enough.” Luna nodded with a sigh.

“We can only hope that Twilight is prepared for what will happen.”

Author's Note

As you can see, I suck at writing speechs so I am sorry that is short as fuck. I had this half written for awhile, but really never had the motivation to finish it. As you can see, I finally did.

An Old, Bloody Past

Chrysalis dragged her feet into the dining hall of the Castle, only having gotten a couple hours of sleep. The others were already seated at the table, pancakes and coffee set out on an empty spot just for her.

“Did you sleep well, Chrysalis?” asked Celestia, taking a sip of her coffee. Chrysalis grunted, taking her seat next to Twilight. Taking a sip of her coffee, Chrysalis let out a pleased moan as a peice of hair fell over her face.

“This is by far the best coffee I have ever tasted. You will need to send me the grounds you use.” said Chrysalis with a content sigh. With a flash of magic, a brush popped into existence and started working on trying to groom the mess that was her mane. “Any news about last night?”

Celestia quietly levitated that morning’s newspaper to the changeling. Setting down her coffee, Chrysalis began to read.

Changeling Queen Chrysalis enters power in Canterlot.
Following a press conference held last night by the princesses, it was revealed that as an attempt to make peace between the two races, changelings have been allowed into the Equestria and are legally allowed to gain citizenship.

According to the Former Queen of the Changelings, Chrysalis stated that the decision was made to help the species depression caused by lack of food following the failed attempt to gather large amounts during the Wedding Invasion.

In accordance to the new laws that were passed, any changeling citizen is to get rid of their disguise and seek citizenship, requiring a name and home address. On top of this, Queen Chrysalis has stepped down from the rank of Queen to Princess. She will now handle the transition process for the changelings and so-forth under the supervision of Princess Twilight.

Rumors have already stirred that this is the beginning of a changeling uprising, though all accusations were denied by the princesses. We will have more on the situation as it develops.

“Uprising my ass.” grumbled Chrysalis, taking another sip of her coffee. “On the brightside, not too much negativity in the press yet. Though I have yet to walk out the front door.”

“There is already a mob of protesters at the gate.” sighed Cadence. “The wounds from your attack run deep in this city. It will take a lot of work to convince the populace that you don’t mean any harm.”

“How about changeling’s?” asked the former Queen. “I am aware of between two to three hundred changeling’s residing in this city alone. Let alone cities around the country the numbers reach the thousands. Have any of those come out yet?”

“Since the city office opened this morning, a hundred or so changeling’s have registered in Canterlot alone. As for country wide, those numbers are still coming in.” said Luna calmly. “I don’t expect all the changeling’s to come out that easily. We will end up having to go city to city and either ask them a second time or arrest them.”

“Give them a week.” said Chrysalis with a sigh. “I will send out the word that they need to register. If there are still changeling’s left who have yet to register by next friday, then we will start arresting.”

A silence fell over the table as they continued to eat, the sound of silverware and Chrysalis’ brush filling the room. Getting lost in her own thoughts, the former queen absent-mindedly fed herself while looking back on the decision she made.

A constant fear lingered in the back of her mind. A fear of how she led her changelings into chaos. Before Chrysalis drove herself crazy with doubt, the door to the hall burst open with multiple guards running into the hall.

“Your Highness, there is and issue at the staff entrance.” said Shining, leading the group.

“What kind of situation, Captain?” asked Celestia calmly.

“It's best if you all come see yourself.”

As the group of Princesses approached the staff entrance to the kitchen, the sound of shouting rang through the halls. Opening the door, Chrysalis’ ears were assaulted by a sudden increase of volume.

Inside the entrance stood most of the Castle’s staff, including the maids who were just arriving for the shift change. The group was split in two, one half consisting of ten changelings all dressed in the varying uniforms of the castle staff. Multiple guards stood between them trying to keep peace between the two sides.

“Just like the rest of the changelings, a few of the castle staff had to drop their disguises. As I am sure it is with the rest of the country, the reaction was rather… mixed.” informed Shining. “A few of the staff were accepting and I already sent them back to work. I also had a few from the barracks come clean. The other guards were pretty accepting as we all have the same goal in the end. A few threw a fit and are in the dungeons until further notice.”

“What caused this outburst?” asked Chrysalis, looking over at the other changelings. One caught her gaze, shooting her a concerned look. With a sigh, Chrysalis reached out to the young changeling and told her everything would be alright through the hivelink.

“Just confusion and rage.” said Shining. “They want to know what happened to
their coworkers, if they really belong here, did they ever mean harm. They are confused and scared, which makes them violent.”

“How should we resolve this?” asked Twilight. “We can’t just fire the changelings. They have been working here for years possibly and probably depend on the income, especially now that the hive isn’t funding them anymore.”

“Just how many changelings did you put into the castle, Chrysalis?” asked Celestia. The changeling sighed.

“How many I ordered, three.” said Chrysalis “One maid, one cook, and one guard. Aside from that, the rest are changelings who moved out of the hive to support themselves, occasionally sending packages of love back to the hive. Just like the average pony, they needed a job and when you have worked to serve royalty previously, working here is easy.

“Some joined the guard, having been trained in combat since they were young. Some became a maid, having been caretakers in the hive since they first came of age. It is just what comes natural to them. And everyone that got sent here never took the place of another. They came up with their own pony, made their own backstory, and became just another pony who just showed up one day. Just so they can live a life.” One of the changelings, an older looking mare, came forward.

“Please, Princesses. I got a family to support back at home. A loving husband and a beautiful pupa.” begged the Changeling.

“And many have families.” said Chrysalis sadly. “What is your number, drone?”

“Drone 4561. I was nicknamed Flora, having taken care of the plants around the hive.” said the drone with a salute. Chrysalis smiled.

“And the pupa?” asked the former queen kindly. Flora blushed a bit, giving a shy smile.

“Hyacinth.” said Flora proudly. “Just like the flowers that grew outside of the hive.” Celestia gave the mare a soft smile before turning to the rest of the staff.

“The changelings live just like the rest of us. They have families, work hard for their bits, and do what they can to survive. These same changelings were, and still are our coworkers and friends. Just because they no longer hide behind the guise of someone they aren’t does not mean they are any different or are here to harm us. Just like everyone else that comes through that door, I expect you to have the same amount of respect and courtesy. We will not accept intolerance.” There was groans made, but the guards parted, allowing the changelings to go continue their work.

Heading back, Chrysalis was quiet as she thought back about Flora. She found it odd to refer to changelings by name, having used only numbers and codenames for so long, an actual name felt foreign to her. She made a note to find out where the changeling lived and make a visit later.

Chrysalis almost ran into the back of Celestia as she realized she stopped walking, leaving the group standing just outside of the main hall. The alabaster mare was quiet for a moment before turning around, a sad look on her face.

“Chrysalis, do you remember when the two of us first met?” asked Celestia. The changeling winced, turning away.

“All too well.” said Chrysalis softly. “It is hard to forget.” Celestia nodded.

“Just seeing the chaos that we created by our union reminds me of our first meeting… the changeling’s first attempt at peace.”

Chrysalis stood in front of the giant double doors of the Canterlot Throne room. Flashbacks of screaming and the blood drenched bodies of her mother and sister ran through her head. Her every instinct told her to run, to get as far away from Canterlot as possible. Maybe relocate the hive, hide for a while.

But the voice of her mother told her that she needed to urge for a change. A Queen does not run and hide from an enemy, she either takes what she needs through force and negotiates her way through the situation.

Disguised as a common pony, the newly crowned queen stepped forward as the doors opened for her. Beyond, the walls were lined with guards, twice the amount as there was the last time Chrysalis was here. There was no real exit and the furthest she could hope to teleport safely is just outside the castle.

Sitting upon her throne, Celestia stared at Chrysalis, almost as if she could see through the disguise she was wearing. Next to her was another princess. Luna looked bored, barely awake as she tapped her hoof waiting for time to go by.

“What is your name and what was your request?” asked the princess. Her voice reverbed off the walls and rang in Chrysalis’ head. Taking a breath and readying a spell for the worst, she dropped her disguise.

“I am Queen Chrysalis and I am her to negotiate.” A charged blast of magic bounced away from her as she quickly threw up her shield. Looking around, she noticed that she was quickly surrounded, every spear in the room pointed in her direction. Celestia now stood at her throne, glaring at the changeling. Luna sat up, watching with interest.

“And why should I listen to an insect?” asked Celestia, slowly walking towards the queen. “You come into my country, take my ponies, and replace them with insects to steal our most prized possession. And you expect us to listen to someone who lies and cheats?”

“We lived in this country just long as you.” growled Chrysalis, causing the guards around her to close in. She let out a sigh. “I have come here with a simple request for my family’s remains and for your hunt to cease.”

“And why should we stop?” asked Celestia. “Why should we just listen to you?”

“Because we can be anything.” said Chrysalis. Celestia frowned. “As far as you are
aware, half of these guards around me are changeling’s. The maid who helps bathe you after a long day, the guard who walks beside you wherever you go, the filly in ton that gave a flower just yesterday. Any one of these ponies can be a changeling.

“We have been peaceful all these years, swearing to never hurt ponies and always
returning them safely. But now you threaten our lives out of fear and confusion. We have done nothing to hurt you, and yet you do everything to hurt us. We just wish to be left alone and we will continue our vow of peace.”

Celestia grit her teeth, unsure on what she should do. She did not know how much of what she said was true, but was she willing to risk killing her if it possibly meant a changeling could kill her when she was least expecting it?

“You may have your deceased.” Celestia whipped around to see Luna standing walking over to them. “We shall call of any search for changelings and release all captives if you promise to stay hidden and keep your peace.” Chrysalis held eye contact with the princess for a moment.

“I promise you that none of your ponies will come to harm from my race.” said Chrysalis. “21!” From behind her, a guard dropped his spear and transformed into a changeling, giving a quick salute. “You have learned where they kept the Queen and Princess, correct? Take the others and escort them and the captives back to the hive. Be quick.” Much to Celestia’s horror, she watched as half of the circle of guards transformed and flew away. The entire time, Chrysalis did not look away from the princesses.

“I shall never forgive you for the damage you have caused my kind, and it is only for their benefit that I am negotiating.” said Chrysalis. “But I promise you this, Celestia, if you lay a horn on a changeling ever again, I will lay waste to everyone you love, give them a slow painful death as you watch, just I had to as you murdered my mother and sister.”

Before Celestia could respond, the changeling disappeared in a flash of green light. The princess stood there, paralyzed with fear. Eventually she let out a deep breath, before turning to her sister.

“Why did you agree?” she asked, slightly shaking.

“I could see it in her eyes that she was not lying.” said Luna, turning away from her. “If you did what you were thinking of, you would have been dead before you could even light your horn. It is best that you admit defeat and forget about the changelings. I told you when you started this that it will end nowhere good.”

Outside the castle, Chrysalis watched as her drones flew off with the bodies of her mother and sister. As the last of the changelings flew off, Chrysalis let out a deep sigh.

“I hope you are happy, mother.”

Author's Note

I actually planned for this to be alot darker, but I decided not to for a few reasons. If anything, this might make a later chapter make a little more sense.