Stormy Skies for Ponyville

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10

Chapter 1

Chapter 1_____________________________________________________________________
Stormy Skies, the young female pegasus burst through Darkest Autumn’s Door with a smile on her face that could brighten up a day like a flashlight could in a dark cave. “Mom! I’m home!” she cried out. Darkest Autumn, another peagasus with a coat like ash and a heart of gold rushed to hug her daughter. “How was your last day at school?” she asked. “Oh, it was awesome!” The grayish-blue pony replied. “We threw a big party and Dusty’s dad brought in cookies and we played pin the tail on the pony and we all wrote a story about what we’re gonna do on Summer Vacation! Do you wanna hear mine?” The jet-black mare smiled. “Of course I do.”

Hearing her daughter tell her story of warm beaches and plentiful games throughout the season made Darkest Autumn happy. In fact, her daughter being happy at all made her happy too. The truth was that Stormy Skies was not actually her daughter. Stormy Skies wasn’t even from Ponyville, Canterlot, or anywhere in Equestria. But none of these facts really mattered to Autumn, because they didn’t change the fact that she loved Stormy.

About an hour after telling her Summer Story to her mother and eating lunch, Stormy Skies went outside to play, as almost every little filly and colt does after school. Today, she thought, I am going to go to Dusty’s house and thank his father for the cookies, ‘cuz mommy says it’s polite. And then I will go to Little Apple’s house and play with her. Little Apple was Stormy Skies’ best friend. She was one of the ‘Apple Family’, as she called it, and she was very nice. Unfortunately, everypony called her “Midget Apple” because it just worked as an insulting name. But Stormy didn’t care about what her name was, because she cared more about making friends.

After visiting Dusty and praising him for his baked pastries, she headed towards the Apple Family barn to go visit Little Apple. She knocked on the door and was greeted by Applejack. Stormy Skies recognized her all too well. In her past visits to the farm, Applejack had shared stories with both Stormy and Little Apple about how she, as one of the Elements of Harmony, had defeated Nightmare Moon and Discord the Drak-Coney-Kwes (At least, that was how Stormy Skies thought it was spelled). Stormy looked up to all the Elements of Harmony. They were so brave, and even at the worst of times, so loyal to one another. She respected them with all her heart. “Well, Howdy!” said Applejack. “What can I do ya for, Stormy?” “Can I play with Little Apple today?” asked the young foal politely. “Why sure!” replied Applejack. “Hey, L.A.! Yer School-Friend’s here to see you!” “Oh boy!” cheered a high-pitched voice from inside the barn. In 10 seconds flat, the young earth pony filly had jumped right out to meet her friend. “I was just inside listening to one of Applejack’s stories. Do you wanna listen with me?” Applejack blushed. “Well, it’s nothin’ special really... you may have heard it before...” “Well, Stormy hasn’t!” said Little Apple. Stormy looked up eagerly into the face of the orange cowpony. “I’d really like to hear it, Applejack.” Applejack’s face turned even redder, but she finally agreed. “Oh, alright. Come on inside.”

The best part about hearing a story from Applejack was that she was the Element of Honesty, so you could get the story and trust that what she said actually happened. “Alright, so as I was sayin’, this here story’s about the Canterlot invasion.” Stormy was confused. “Canterlot was invaded by aliens?” she asked. “Close,” laughed Applejack. “Well, one day my friends and I were havin’ a picnic, when all of a sudden Spike comes runnin’ up with a weddin’ invitation....” And so went on the story, from when Twilight Sparkle was madder than a beat-up rattlesnake. and how everypony thought Cadance had was sweeter than apple pie, and when Twilight was sent to the caves beneath Canterlot, when finally she told of the climax.
“And then, Twi and some other pony came burstin’ right through the doors, and guess who that other pony was? Cadance! There was two of ‘em! And while everypony sat there wonderin’ how in the name of Celestia did there come to be two princesses, the Cadance next to Twilight said, “She’s a Changelin’!” Stormy Skies raised her hoof into the air. “Ummm... Applejack? What’s a changeling?” “I’m mighty glad you asked that, Stormy. Why, a changeling is one of the most foulest things on earth. They’re small, fanged little creatures that look like a half-pony, half-insect. They all have black coats and holes in their legs, like they were made o’ cheese! They have tiny little wings and a tiny little horn on their head. And guess what they like to eat?” “L-little fillies like us?” stammered the 2 young ponies. Applejack laughed again. “No, but you were close again. They eat LOVE. They transform into other ponies, and feed off the love an’ good feelings other ponies feel for it.” Stormy Skies shifted in her seat nervously. “Scary, huh?” whispered Little Apple. “Yeah!” laughed Stormy. “I think if I met one, I might faint!”

And so Applejack continued about how the Cadance that was getting married suddenly grew long, blue-green hair, and holes popped into her legs as though somepony was shooting them with a machine gun, and how her pretty, purple-pink wings transformed into ugly, ripped up insect wings, and how the real Cadance and Shining Armor defeated the Queen of the Changelings with their love, and finished with how they all got banished from Equestria. “Now, it’s been about three years since that happened, and we haven’t seen head nor tail of them Changelings since.” The two fillies clapped and cheered for Applejack’s magnificent story, and she blushed again. “Aww, shucks, I didn’t do nothin’, it was more Twilight and Cadance who saved the day...” “Nonsense, big sis’, you did your best!” complimented Little Apple. “Well, that’s enough of story time today, why don’t y’all go outside and play?” “Yeah!” said Stormy Skies, heading for the door. “Let’s go play ball, I’ve been training and my aim is better now!” “Alright!” cheered Little Apple. And the 2 fillies scampered outside.

Stormy Skies picked up the ball and tossed it to Little Apple. “All right,” she said. “Ready... Set...” “Midget Apple, WHAT are YOU doing?” a voice made Stormy drop the ball. “Oh no...” moaned Little Apple. “Why does Gabriella Greenback always have to ruin our fun?” Gabriella Greenback was an an acid-green unicorn, and one of the snobbiest fillies in Ponyville. “Playing with Stormy Skies AGAIN? I’ve warned you so many times, Stormy, a pegasus like you shouldn’t be hanging out with filthy Earth Ponies like THAT piece of garbage.” Stormy Skies scowled at her. “Just because I’m a pegasus doesn't make me a better pony than Little Apple,” she spoke in a dangerous tone. “And it’s better than being friends with a dirty bully like YOU.” Gabriella Greenback smiled almost evilly. “Oh Stormy Skies, you’ll never learn. What if you want to go flying? She won’t be by your side. What if you want to have a sleep-over in the clouds? She won't be there. She’s a worthless pile of trash, and she always will be.”
“How DARE you insult Little Apple!” screamed Stormy, suddenly leaping into the air to tackle Gabriella. “Stormy, please don’t! We’ll get in trouble!” cried Little Apple. Gabriella, shocked at the sudden act of violence, dived out of the way. She used her magic to levitate herself up to a height where Stormy could not reach her, but this was totally pointless, for after falling to the ground Stormy, being a pegasus, flew to her level and prepared for attack. Gabriella Greenback, still in a state of shock, kicked Stormy in the stomach with her hind legs. Stormy stared, mouth agape and eyes wide. For a second, her image seemed to flicker like a dying lightbulb. Then again and again, until finally, Stormy Skies was no more.

Time seemed to freeze. Gabriella Greenback looked ready to faint, her eyes nearly popping out of her head with an expression of sheer horror. Little Apple standing on the ground hopelessly, her jaw nearly touching the ground. “What?” came a voice not at all like the blue-gray pegasus' had been. Her voice was reedy and had a hint of a reverb, like a bee’s buzz. “What’s the matter? Why are you all staring at me?” “You-- you...” stammered Gabriella, but Little Apple finished her sentence.

“YOU’RE A CHANGELIN’!”

Chapter 2

Chapter 2_____________________________________________________________________

Stormy held up her hooves, but her hooves didn’t belong to Stormy at all. They were jet-black, and had numerous amounts of holes in them, as though they were ashen cheese. Her wings no longer felt as though they would easily let fly with a few flaps. Instead, they felt as though she had to beat them at least 100 times a second to stay airborne.

Gabriella Greenback’s wings had snapped shut with fright, and she was falling to the ground. The changeling that was once Stormy Skies stared down at Little Apple. She was slowly walking backwards in the direction of the Apple Family barn. “Little Apple... I... I...” “You’re gonna get a big buck in the face from Applejack, that’s what!” yelled Little Apple, and she broke into a run. “No L.A., Please!” pleaded Stormy, and she flew after her. ‘Oh, please oh please forget all about this oh please please please don’t tell anypony...’ Then a thought hit her. She was a changeling- she had a horn, she could use her magic! She quickly created a mental image of Little Apple halting, unable to move any further, and it happened in reality. As much as she struggled, she couldn’t move. Stormy the Changeling landed next to the small filly, but did not have a plan as to what to do now. If only she make her forget all of this... But an Idea hatched in her brain, inspired by the story of Discord...

Little Apple gazed into the beady blue eyes of the changeling pinning her down. It whispered to her in a soft voice. “I’m so sorry, Little Apple.” The changeling lowered her head, her horn glowing lime green, and suddenly, Little Apple felt a wave of forgetfulness...

Little Apple’s pupils turned a bright green and enlarged for a little while. The filly closed her eyes and her struggling ceased. Stormy the Changeling turned. Now for Gabriella, who had been rendered unconcious from the fall...
Little Apple opened her eyes to see Stormy Skies the pegasus, laughing. “Oops, sorry. I didn’t mean for that ball to knock you over.” Little Apple laughed, remembering how the ball had knocked her off her feet and onto the ground. “Aww, It’s okay. C’mon, let’s play some more.”

Although majority of the day had been very fun, Stormy Skies came home feeling very depressed. 2 ponies had just discovered her secret, and she had to attack them both. She didn’t feel so bad about modifying Gabriella Greenback’s memory, because she deserved it, the jerk. She’d gotten Stormy into this mess. But to have done it to her own best friend... it made her feel guilty and cowardly, and she was ashamed. But it had to be done, or else, who knows what Applejack and the Elements of Harmony would’ve done to her. She might’ve even been banished to the moon! But it was all over now...right?

Ever since she had unlocked her new memory-modifying powers, apart from the shame a different side of her felt new... empowered. She knew this was sick and wrong, to enjoy playing with her friends as though they were lifeless dolls, but she could not help but feel even a slight bit excited. Who knows what she could do? If she wanted cookies, she could just replace somepony’s memories to think that they had promised her cookies 5 minutes ago! If she didn’t want to take a bath, she could make them think that she had already bathed, and much more! The possibilities were endless!

Stormy Skies watched the sun slowly set, the sky turning from indigo to scarlet to black. She made a compromise. Alright, she’d perform her spell once, Just ONCE more, and that was it, she would never use it again. She searched her room for a suitable subject. Of course, a pony would never do, it was simply too cruel. Her eyes fell upon a lone beetle. She looked over her shoulder to make sure her mother wasn’t watching, and closed the window to make sure no late-night strollers found her. Once Stormy had confirmed no one would see her, she changed into her true form to properly preform magic, and lowered her horn upon the nearly miniscule head of the beetle, and accessed it’s mind with her magic.

It was on that day that Stormy Skies learned something new- Beetles have VERY boring lives. She searched through about 2 weeks worth of memories and saw nothing but grabbing crumbs on the floor, scuttling towards a hole in the wall, and eating. She decided that she would be generous and make the beetle’s life more exciting. She erased everything the beetle knew except vital instincts, such as eating, drinking, and breathing. This would no longer be an ordinary beetle. No, this Beetle was a Knight, serving the glorious kingdom of... Beetletopia. And this knight’s name was... Sir Legsalot. And he served a beautiful queen named.... named...
“Why not yourself?” said a little voice in her head. “You would make a wonderful queen. You are beautiful. You are powerful. You have much potential.” Stormy Skies thought this over for a moment. “Alright.” she decided. “Sir Legsalot serves a beautiful queen named Stormy Skies.” Deciding she was done creating a little backstory for the entranced insect, she raised her horn and stared expectantly at it.

For a moment, the beetle did nothing. Then it scuttled away. Stormy’s heart sank a little. Oh well, it’s brain was probably too tiny to even comprehend what a queen was anyway. However the beetle returned not 10 seconds later, a large crumb on it’s back. The beetle did what was an unmistakable a bow, which caused the crumb to roll to Stormy Skies’ feet. Instead of picking it up, the beetle left it there, as though it had been a gift. Stormy smiled at the beetle. “Your queen is pleased, Sir Legsalot. You are dismissed.” she whispered. And with that, the bug ran away.

“Okay, there. You did it. You just created the most awesome beetle ever. Happy now?” she thought to herself. “No more.” Stormy Skies ate dinner, crawled in her bed, and went to sleep.

Stormy had a most strange dream that night. She was in her changeling form once more. Applejack was standing in front of her, scowling. “What?” asked Stormy. The orange cowpony said nothing, but instead transformed into Little Apple. “YOU’RE A CHANGELIN’!” she shrieked once more. Stormy stared unamusedly at her. “Yeah. So? I’m still a good friend... right? Good friends don’t care what you are or what you look like, Good friends care about what’s inside...” “Right you are, darling.” said an unfamiliar voice. Stormy turned her head to get a good look at the mystery speaker. It was a jet black pony- or... was it a pony? It was quite tall for a pony, about as tall as Celestia, but VERY different. It had holes in its legs, hair, and tail. It had short, pearl-white fangs, and teal eyes. Her voice sounded almost insect-like, ringing with every word she spoke. “It is a very well known rule of friendship, Celestia even has her little minions learning it, yet they don’t seem to actually USE this knowledge, do they?” Stormy Skies did not know how to reply to this. “The ponies are all fools. They accept a zebra, who has threatened, not actually done, but threatened to curse them all, but they despise an innocent changeling?” Stormy bared her fangs. “I know you... You’re Queen Chrysalis! You nearly took over all of Equestria! You aren’t innocent at all!” The smile faded from the Changeling Queen’s face. “I did what I had to. My Changelings have spent nearly 47 YEARS starving, unable to find enough love to uphold the entire colony. We had a choice, starve and die out, or conquer a land with enough food to last us a century. If it was up to you to feed over a thousand ponies, which would you choose?” Stormy thought over this carefully. If she had to feed over a thousand starving ponies... “I...guess you’re right...” The grin returned to Queen Chrysalis’ face, and she laughed. “I thought so... But that’s off topic. I have visited you to make a deal.” “A... deal?” Stormy asked, her voice wavering. “Yes, a deal, dear Stormy. You are one of the most magically talented changelings I have ever seen in my entire life. I myself have the ability to control only 10 ponies at a time. You can rewrite as many memories as you want. As you have been living here for your entire life, nopony will ever suspect you.” “Suspect me for what?” Stormy Skies demanded. “I want you to corner as many ponies as possible, modify their memories to make them believe that they must go to the Everfree Forest. I will wait for them there. Using this method, We shall take over Ponyville, and then ALL of Equestria!” Stormy Skies gave Chrysalis a stern stare. “Why would I do that?” “Ah, yes, your end of the bargain... Upon our victory, I shall award you with power. You will become one with my colony, and not only that, but a princess. Yes... Stormy Skies... Princess of the Changelings AND Equestria, and when I die, Queen. But if, and ONLY if, you decide to help me.” Stormy Skies did not reply, but instead turned away to process it through her brain.

If I accept... I will become a princess, and later a queen of all the chagelings. And I shall rule all of Ponyville- No... EQUESTRIA... And if I don’t accept, I don’t get any of that.... But I can warn the Elements of Harmony, right?’ ‘But they probably won’t believe you, will they?’ said a nasty little voice in her head. ‘You heard Applejack. Nopony’s seen head nor tail of the changelings ever since the Canterlot Invasion, why would they attack now?’ ‘But if I choose to accept, my family and friends will hate me.’ Chrysalis seemed to read her mind, for she said, “The ponies at home do not truly love you. They only like you because they think you are a pony. If you were honest with them, they would hate you. That is not love, that is prejudice. If we are victorious, you shall come with me, my changeling minions and I will not care about what you look like. We will appreciate you for what you are- a sly, love-consuming changeling...”

It was those words that set her off. She took in what Chrysalis had said, and her heart filled with hatred and bad feelings for her pony kin back home. If Darkest Autumn loved her, why did she not tell her what she really was? Why did she not tell her she was a Changeling? If Little Apple was really her friend, why had she panicked at the sight of her true form, even though she seemed to have liked her before?

Stormy Skies turned back to face the Queen of Changelings, her eyes gleaming with rage, tears welling up with sadness. “I will send you as many ponies as I can.” She said firmly, as this was her final descision. Chrysalis placed a hole-covered hoof on Stormy’s shoulder. “You have chosen wisely.” She whispered, and faded away until she was no more.

Stormy looked away from where Chrysalis had once been and turned to face where Little Apple was standing. Except she was no longer Little Apple. Now she had taken the form of a Pink Alicorn with magenta wings. Her Cutie mark was a heart-shaped diamond whose rim was encrusted with gold. Her mane was very pretty, except for the fact that it was dirty and tangled. Stormy gave it a look of curiosity, and the pink alicorn began to speak.

“You have chosen a path in which your power will rise,
but you must ask yourself, was it really that wise?
You will soon see the consequences of the path you chose,
Will it bring you happiness, or even more woes?”

The rhyming pony faded away just as Queen Chrysalis had, and Stormy Skies was finally alone.

Queen Depravia Cassandra Chrysalis woke up with a start in the throneroom of her hive in which she ruled. She had just had a very weird dream. She had met a changeling who lived in Ponyville disguised as a young pegasus foal named Stormy Skies, and revealed her next plan to take over Equestria to her. Chrysalis had absolutely no idea who Stormy Skies was, yet it felt as though she had known her since she was a young hatchling. She did know one thing however, and it brought her the first smile she had ever had in 3 years.

Changeling children were EASILY manipulated.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3_____________________________________________________________________
A Few Days Later...

Somepony knocked on the SugarCube Corner door. “I’ll get it!” shouted Pinkie Pie, who sprang from her bedroom all the way down the stairs and to the door. She opened it and was greeted by Derpy Hooves the Mailmare. “I have a letter for Pinkie Pie, can you please give it to her?” She said. Pinkie Pie fell over and giggled for a whole 160 seconds before finally getting up and saying, “Oh Derpy, I AM Pinkie Pie!” Derpy’s face blushed red and she said, “Oh... sorry. Have a nice day!” “You too!” she called. “Especially if you meet GIANT flying cupcakes, ‘cuz that would be a SUPER nice day!” Pinkie shut the door and tore open the envelope (which is very hard for a pony since they have flat hooves). The letter read,

Dear Pinkie Pie,
Hi there! I would like to meet you at the Everfree Forest at 3:00pm today. I have something I would like to show you. I can’t tell you though, ‘cuz it’s a surprise!
I hope you can make it. :)

-Stormy Skies

“A surprise? Oh boy! I just love love LOVE surprises!” exclaimed Pinkie Pie. “Hey, Mr. and Mrs. Cake? Is it okay if I go out to the Everfree Forest at 3? She called, running back upstairs to where the shop owners were. When they (finally) accepted, Pinkie gave a leap of joy, and headed to the Everfree Forest four hours early.

When it was finally around 3 o’clock, Pinkie Pie saw Stormy Skies coming up the path. “Finally!” gasped Pinkie. “I’ve been waiting for like, EVER!” Stormy gave her a look of total confusion. “But... I’m five minutes early.” she said. She shook her head as though trying to shake the illogicality of this statement out of her head. “Anyway, let’s go in.”

About six minutes into the forest, Pinkie Pie began to feel nervous. “Do we REALLY have to go in this deep...?” she asked. “Oh, but this is something I REALLY want you to see! It’s so cool.... please?” pleaded Stormy Skies. Pinkie Pie sighed and gave in. “Oh, okay. But it better knock my invisible, non-existant socks off!” Stormy laughed. “Oh, it will.”

“I’ll cook up a solution with the knowledge I’ve accrued, they say a kitch-en time saves nine, but I’m just saving two...” sang Fluttershy as she went on about her weekly afternoon stroll through the Everfree Forest. Fluttershy loved to walk through the Everfree Forest, it was so calm and quiet during midday, it gave her the opportunity to think about... well, everything! Her wondeful friends, the wonderful animals, the wonderful EVERYTHING in the world. Well, except for some things. Like Draconequui. And dragons. But other than that pretty much everything was wonderful.

All of a sudden, Fluttershy began to hear noises. This confused her, what could possibly be wrong? Today seemed like such a fine day! As she followed the noise, it appeared as though it was not the sound of manticores fighting, but the sound of 2 ponies talking. After listening some more, she identified the voices as Pinkie Pie and Stormy Skies. “This is taking forever!” complained Pinkie. “But we’re almost there!” exclaimed Stormy. Fluttershy, curious as to what was going on, followed the 2 ponies in secret.

And it was lucky she did.

Suddenly, the 2 ponies came to a halt in a clearing in the middle of the forest. “Okay, I’m here!” called Stormy to a listener unknown. “I would’ve brought more ponies, but if half the town mysteriously went missing, everypony else would’ve gotten suspicious, and I couldn't use my powers out in the public.” Pinkie broke out into a nervous sweat. “S-suspicious of what? What powers?” she asked. There was a horrible feeling in her gut that something absolutely awful was going to happen to her, something not even laughter could get her out of. Was she going to die? Was THIS how it felt to be close to death with nothing you could do about it? It reminded her of the awful dream she had once had, where she had killed Rainbow Dash and turned her into Cupcakes. Suddenly there was a soft buzzing noise, and Pinkie Pie felt a great wave of relief and anger. Was THIS the awesome thing Stormy wanted to show her? A BEE? Pinkie had gotten worked up over nothing. But then the buzzing noise got louder. And louder. And LOUDER until finally there was a loud *THUD* and Pinkie Pie found herself face to face with Queen Chrysalis herself. “Well done, Stormy, but we’re going to need more than one pony to conquer Equestria.” she said, slightly dejectedly. Pinkie Pie felt ready to faint. Conquer Equestria? Why was she a part of this? She had to run back to Ponyville, and warn Twilight Sparkle! She turned to tell Stormy to run for it, but Stormy was no longer there, and in her place was a Changeling, who proceeded to wink at her. “Well, like I said, if I brought half the town ponies would’ve noticed.” it said. Pinkie Pie was in a state of shock. “I- you- WHAT DID YOU TWO DO WITH THE REAL STORMY?!” she shrieked. “I am the real Stormy.” said the changeling by her side. Her voice dripped with hatred and anger, like a bomb that had been waiting to explode for a long time, not at ALL like the young foal who had been standing in it’s place. “This is exactly the reaction I expected. I’ve been a changeling under your nose for 3 years. I’ve been kind and polite to everypony for 3 years. I give you honesty- you revolt. You ponies are disgusting. But now... It seems we have a use for you.” The changeling grinned, showing her sharp, snow colored fangs. It nodded at Chrysalis. Pinkie watched in horror as the Changeling Queen’s horn glowed an acid green, as she performed her spell.

Little did any of the 3 ponies know, so did Fluttershy.

Chapter 4

Chapter 4_____________________________________________________________________
Twilight Sparkle and friends sat bored at the table at SugarCube Corner. “Are you SURE you haven’t seen Pinkie Pie OR Fluttershy at ALL today?” asked Applejack. Mr. Cake sighed. “I haven’t seen Pinkie Pie since this morning when she dashed off to go to the Everfree Forest, and heaven knows where Fluttershy is.” he said exasperatedly. The 4 ponies all gave a groan of disappointment. “I’m sorry, Mr. and Mrs. Cake, it’s just that I never thought either of them would want to miss out on Pinkie Pie’s birthday party...” said Twilight Sparkle. There was a long silence, until finally, Rarity stood up. “I’m sorry everypony, but if those two are not going to show up to the party, especially the one to be celebrated about, I hereby label this a waste of my time. Goodbye.” She then proceeded to trot out the door, only to be knocked down by none other than Fluttershy. “Oh, Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, It’s- Rarity, are you okay?!” she gasped. Rarity gave a muffled noise that sounded something like “I’m fine”. Fluttershy gave her small smile and stepped off of her body. “Oh, okay, good. Anyway, where was I- Oh yeah! TWILIGHT! APPLEJACK! RAINBOW DASH! RARITY! IT’S TERRIBLE!” The 4 ponies shot eachother reproving glances. “Is Angel making friends with a Dragon? ‘Cuz sorry, Fluttershy, but nopony really cares.” said Rainbow Dash. “RAINBOW!” screamed the remaining 3. “Erm, no.” said Fluttershy quietly. “It’s not that bad.” “Well, spit it out then!” snapped Applejack. “The Changelings are coming!” shrieked Fluttershy, so loud that Ms. Cake dropped the tray of cupcakes she was holding. “The Changelings are coming to Attack Equestria! THEY’VE GOT PINKIE PIE!” For a moment, the 4 ponies just stared at Fluttershy. Then they all burst into laughter. Even Rarity could not help but fall over on the floor in a fit of giggles. “Changelings?! Is she SERIOUS?!” laughed Applejack. Fluttershy’s face turned rose red. “I am! The changelings are coming! They kidnapped Pinkie Pie! And Stormy Skies... She-” “I’m sorry Fluttershy, but you don’t have a shred of evidence to prove it.... Do you?” asked Twilight Sparkle, who had calmed down enough to speak without bursting into laughter again. Fluttershy was at a loss. “I... I... Haven’t ANY of you noticed ANYPONY go missing?” she stammered. Rarity stopped laughing at once. “Well, come to think of it, Lyra Heartstrings STILL hasn’t come to pick up her gloves (“I don’t know what they are or why she would need them, though,” she added)... and they’ve been done for weeks! I’ve informed her over and over again by mail, but she hasn’t responded...” Rainbow Dash’s expression also turned serious. “Yeah... Spitfire hasn’t been seen on the Wonderbolts Team since last week...” she said. “Everypony’s assumed it’s because she’s sick...” “That’s because they were kidnapped by CHANGELINGS!” cried Fluttershy, waving her hooves around. “They haven’t been seen because they were captured by Queen Chrysalis, and Stormy Skies is helping her!” Twilight, however, still looked unconvinced. “So, Spitfire is absent and Lyra’s a bit late to pick up her flubs (“Gloves,” corrected Rarity), that doesn’t mean anything BAD’s happened to them, let alone kidnapped by changelings. They’re just acting a bit too strange for your liking- It’s not a big deal.” Fluttershy opened her mouth as though to scream something, but closed it, as though unable to find the right words to express her rage. Then she finally spoke. “Just you wait Twilight Sparkle. The Changelings ARE coming! I know what I saw, so don’t come crying to me when they catch you off guard!” And with that, Fluttershy slammed the door and left. Applejack turned to face Twilight Sparkle nervously. “Wow... I’ve never seen Fluttershy that angry before... Not even at the Grand Galloping Gala! You’re sure she’s wrong?” Twilight Sparkle just waved a hoof at her. “Relax, Applejack. Nopony’s seen head nor tail of the changelings since the Canterlot Invasion 3 years ago, why would they attack now?” Applejack smiled. “Oh, alright then. Let’s wait for Pinkie Pie.”

But Pinkie Pie never came.

Chapter 5

Chapter 6_____________________________________________________________________
“You can attempt to overtake Equestria. You can throw Princess Celestia down to the floor. I don’t care. But Nopony- NOPONY. HURTS. MY. FRIENDS.” She flew up so she was eye level with the 2 changelings. Stormy was shocked. Of all the ponies to try and stop them, it was Fluttershy?! Chrysalis merely glared at her. “Do you really think YOU, one WEAK, SINGLE pegasus can defeat the two of us, the changeling armanda, AND your entranced friends? Please, I don’t have time to laugh right now. I can do that once Princess Celestia is dead.” “I- well... no.” stammered Fluttershy, “I can’t do it alone. But with the help of my friends, we can accomplish anything!” She turned the the crowd of ponies, some of which had stopped bowing. “Please. I need your help. Friendship has defeated Nightmare Moon and Discord. And now, I think it can stop THEM!” she pointed at Stormy and Chrysalis. At first, there was silence. Nopony rose, and Fluttershy began to look worried. “It seems friendship can’t destroy US, if your friends are too COWARDLY to do it, can it?” jeered Stormy Skies. But at that moment, one pony rose. A cerulean pegasus with a Rainbow Mane- Rainbow Dash. And then another- Twilight Sparkle, though just barely standing. It seemed as though some of her ribs were broken. And then Rarity, who had a large scar on her left hind leg. And finally, Applejack, who had a twisted ankle.

The sight of the injured ponies still having enough courage seemed to boost the others’, because they too rose up. Berry Punch, Amethyst Star, even some random blue earth pony Fluttershy didn’t even know, until finally everypony was now standing. Queen Chrysalis and Stormy Skies both looked terrified. “What do we do now?” Stormy whispered to Chrysalis. Chrysalis took a long time to respond. “Fight back. 1... 2... 3...” “GO!” screamed Stormy. They dashed away. “AFTER THEM!” cried Rainbow Dash. There were loud screams and the residents of Ponyville chased after the 2 shapeshifters. Chrysalis gathered the rest of the Changelings, and ordered them to attack back. “GO!” she shrieked. “DON’T HOLD BACK! KILL THEM IF YOU MUST!” Stormy blended in with the others, punching ponies here and there, biting their legs so they couldn’t move, ect. However, the ponies seemed to be doing even more damage to them than they were to the ponies. 2 changelings were already dead, and the worst that had happened to the ponies was that Vinyl Scratch had broken her leg. Stormy Skies found Applejack and attempted to attack her from behind, but the orange cowpony had sensed her coming and bucked her in the face, sending her flying a far ways away from the group. “AAAAAAAGH!” she screamed.

Meanwhile, Darkest Autumn was searching desperately for Stormy Skies. “Stormy?! Yoo-hoo! Hello?! Please, ANSWER ME!” she called, but no reply came. Suddenly, it appeared as though a black meteorite was speeding from the sky, headed straight tworards her. “Aaugh!” cried Stormy, and closed her eyes as the space rock came flying. However, it was not a meteorite after all- in fact, it was a changeling. It took one look at her with it’s beady blue eyes and pinned her to the ground, hissing menacingly. “Okay, I admit it! I’M SORRY!” sobbed Darkest Autumn. Tears were running down her face. It seemed as though it was very hard for her to talk, she was just barely choking out the words. “I took the changeling egg from your hive three years ago. She lives here, in Ponyville, disguised as an Alicorn named Stormy Skies,” she said. “I took it because... because... I thought, you know, not all of them could be evil...” The changeling looked both shocked and confused. “I took her in and raised her like all the other ponies... so when I heard you guys came... Oh, please don’t take her away from me...” Instead of clawing the ash-black pegasus open like she had originally intended to, the changeling merely whispered...

“Mom? Is that true?”

Chapter 7

Chapter 7_____________________________________________________________________
“Stormy?! What are you doing out here! Haven’t you noticed the changelings are attacking?!” screamed Autumn. “Oh, whatever... at least you’re safe with me, now...” “Mom, you didn’t answer my question.” said Stormy. Her mother sighed. “Yes, it is. I found your egg abandoned underneath a changeling nest 3 years ago, while I was searching the Everfree Forest for a plant Zecora needed for a new potion. I never found the Vehkido Herb, but you mattered more to me that some stupid old flower.” Autumn looked down at the floor. “I suppose you know what you really are now...” she whispered. Stormy felt pity for her mother. She was about to ask her another question, when a blinding flash of golden light came from central Ponyville. “We should check it out,” said Darkest Autumn. Stormy nodded and followed her mother, not bothering to turn back into her alicorn form.

Contrary to what Stormy Skies had expected to see, the center of Ponyville was devoid of any Changelings. However, some ponies were sitting on the ground, tending to their wounds. Others who had not had serious injuries were helping those who did. In the middle of it all, Stormy could see all 6 elements of harmony standing next to Princess Celestia. “Is Pinkie Pie fully recovered?” asked Celestia. Pinkie Pie nodded. “Good,” said the Princess. “I apologize for being late. I would’ve gotten here sooner if it weren’t for the changelings already crowding my doorstep... However, it seems you solved the problem with the Elements of Harmony quick enough. However, there’s just one more thing that needs to be done...” She turned and stared at Stormy Skies, and the 6 Ponies glared too. “What? WHY are you all staring at my daughter? I’ll have you know she had nothing to do with this!” Celestia’s expression softened as she moved it to Darkest Autumn’s. “Unfortunately, it seems just the opposite.” she said. She approached Stormy, and the young changeling fell under her gaze. “Princess Celestia, I-” she began, but Celestia continued as though she had said nothing. “When Fluttershy’s friends would not believe what she had seen happen in the Everfree Forest, she contacted me as soon as possible. She told me all about Pinkie Pie’s capture, and the true identity of Stormy Skies. I decided to wait until there was proof... foolish me.”

“It appears as though Stormy has been in contact with Queen Chrysalis for a month now, kidnapping ponies for her cause. I believe you have quite some explaining to do.” Rainbow Dash shoved Princess Celestia aside, pushed her face into Stormy’s, and growled, “What did you do with the real Stormy Skies?” Darkest Autumn and Pinkie Pie both answered. “She IS the real Stormy!” Applejack tapped them both on the forehead. “Uhh, is she messin’ with yall’s brains? She’s a changelin’, and she’s sitting right here in front of ya.” Darkest Autumn answered her this time. “No, she’s always been a changeling. I found her as an egg, and took her in. I raised her and loved her as any normal filly...” Stormy’s courage seemed to return to her. “No you didn’t! If you loved me, how come you never told me who I am? How come you never told me I was a changeling? How come you didn’t tell ANYPONY I was a changeling?” Didn’t you CARE at all?!” she scolded. “Stormy Skies, I’m ashamed of you.” said Autumn. “I knew one day I would have to reveal to everypony that you were a changeling, but not like this! I never told anypony that you were a changeling because I didn’t want them to shun you for what you were. I never told you because I thought that if you knew, you... you would feel ashamed about sharing the same species name as changelings as evil and vile as those creatures. I was trying to protect your feelings out of love...” Tears once again began to stream down her face. “I thought you, of all ponies should know that...”

Suddenly, her own ignorance dawned on Stormy. How could she have possibly been that STUPID? Changelings fed off of love! If Darkest Autumn had not loved her, she would have starved to death! Yet here she was, still alive after 3 years of living with her. Stormy Skies began to feel shame like never before. Ashamed that she had been so ungrateful towards her mother, ashamed for criticizing the ponies for their ignorance when her own was larger than all of theirs put together, ashamed for destroying Ponyville...

Ashamed of stabbing the backs of those who loved her.

Stormy, too began to cry silently. She hung her head in shame, for she felt she did not deserve to look into the eyes of those she had betrayed. Princess Celestia looked down upon the weeping changeling, her eyes showing no pity. “Stormy Alexandra Skies. I, Princess Celestia, hereby banish you from Equestria for as long as you live. Should you choose to disobey and cross the border anyway, I will see to having you executed. Now begone with you!” Stormy nodded. Without a single goodbye or word, she turned tail and walked away, growing smaller and smaller in the distance until she was no more.

“There is one more punishment to be carried out,” said Celestia, as she turned on Darkest Autumn. “For the naivety of raising a changeling, sworn enemies of Equestria... meet me at Canterlot Castle tomorrow at noon.” And with that, Princess Celestia flew off, back to Canterlot.

Chapter 8

Chapter 8_____________________________________________________________________

Stormy Skies took one last look at Ponyville. Her Ex-Home. She sighed, and imagined the ponies back at home having a party, laughing and telling jokes and eating Pinkie Pie’s cake. There would be a big banner that said “Stormy is a Jerk Party” on it. She wished she could be somepony else, and be a part of the imaginary celebration, and she could, but her conscience would not let her. She faced back towards the Everfree Forest and walked in.

She could hardly believe that not half an hour ago, she had put Equestria in mortal peril, and LOVED being the cause. It seemed fun then, but now it depressed her. She was so lost in her thoughts that she tripped over a stump. When she got up, she discovered it was not a stump at all, but an unconscious Queen Chrysalis, who opened her eyes. “Don’t kick me...” she muttered. “I didn’t.” replied Stormy. Chrysalis got up, and rubbed her head with a holey hoof. Her eyes fell upon Stormy Skies, and she gave her a small smile. “Well then, I guess it’s back to the hive with both of us.” she said. However, the younger Changeling turned around and said, “You can go, I give up on conquering Equestria.” Queen Chrysalis looked shocked. “But... Remember? We had a deal! If you help me, you shall be my right hoof changeling...” “You promised me ONLY if we won.” said Stormy. “We failed. Goodbye.” She abandoned the changeling queen.

On her way out of Ponyville, she passed by Zecora’s hut, and saw Zecora brewing a potion. Despite the fact that the Zebra was too busy to noticed her, Stormy gave her a small smile and waved. She then moved on.

By the time night fell, Stormy was VERY far from Ponyville. She had avoided waking up the Swamp Hydra, passed by the Dragon’s Cave, and finally collapsed near the long abandoned canyon, unable to move any further without feeling a sharp and agonizing pain in her legs. She recognized the canyon as the place where dragons moved to after the dragon migration. Unable to find anything as an acceptable substitute for a pillow or a blanket but a flat rock, she lie on the cold stone, shivering. She closed her eyes, wishing sleep would come get her and briefly free her from the misery of her reality, but it would not.

Suddenly, she appeared back at home. It was her birthday, and Little Apple had given her a telescope. She set it up near a window and watched the starry night that Princess Luna had so generously given her. She saw the planets and the asteroid belt and even Pluto, far away... She also noticed the moon, shining bright and beautifully... She saw a figure, a shadow move on it’s surface. Overwhelmed with curiosity, she zoomed in and saw that the creature was none other than Darkest Autumn, the ashen-black pegasus. Her coat, being as dark as the night sky, was hard to see, but her bright golden-red mane and scarlet eyes stood out in the inky blackness. She gave Stormy a weak smile and a small wave, and then walked away. And although Stormy could not see her, her head was filled with the image of her mother sitting, lonely on the barren white rock, tears streaming down her face. “Mom!” cried Stormy, but nopony heard her. Suddenly, the face of Princess Celestia blocked her view, and said quite sternly, “You lose, changeling. And now your mother will pay the price.”

Stormy Skies’ eyes snapped open. She recalled her dream (more of a nightmare really) and knew what she must be done. She would need to, once again, break the rules, of course. It was reckless, risky, but it was also right. An innocent pony’s fate rested in her hooves, and she was going to seize the opportunity.

Darkest Autumn waited nervously in Canterlot Court. She did not know what fate awaited her, or what her punishment would be. When the clock finally struck 3, her name was called, and she stepped in before the judge- Celestia herself. Autumn heard many ponies whispering hurriedly to each other, while simultaneously staring at her.

“I heard that mare’s getting convicted because she raised a changeling that destroyed Ponyville.”
“I think this is stupid, how could she possibly have known that the changeling was spying for Chrysalis? She’s innocent, I tell you!”
“Honestly, Blueberry, Innocent my left flank. It’s common knowledge that all changelings are evil. She was just too stupid to care- she deserves at LEAST 100 years on the moon.”
“What’s Celestia got in store for her?”
The Sun Princess’ horn glowed gold, and the gavel suddenly banged twice all on it’s own. “Order in the court, I say, ORDER IN THE COURT!” The whispers died down. “We are gathered here today to decide whether or not Darkest Autumn the Pegasus is guilty. Her supposed crime is that she is responsible for a changeling acting as an unknown assistant to the Queen of the Changelings, Chrysalis, which led to the destruction of Ponyville and near enslavement of all of Ponykind.” Twilight Sparkle repeatedly got up out of her chair as though trying to point out all the different ways she believed innocent, but eventually sat back down. “Good ol’ Twilight.” though Autumn. Twilight had offered several times to be her defense attourney, but Autumn had declined. The princess had decided that she was to be punished, and if the princess had made up her mind nopony, not even her own sister, could change it. She had decided to spare Twilight the burden of feeling as though she had failed her when they lost. “Does the offense have anything to say about this?” said Celestia. The offense was a mere filly, but for some strange reason Celestia had chosen her as an acceptable offense. The offense was none other than Gabriella Greenback.

“I must voice my opinion that Darkest Autumn is absolutely guilty. She was ignorant enough as to take in a sworn enemy of Equestria, it was only a matter of time before Ponyville was attacked, and even MORE ignorant as to completely ignore the relationship between her daughter and Chrysalis when the time came.” Twilight looked about ready to burst into flame. Celestia nodded at Gabriella. “Indeed. Does the defense have anything to say against this?” Autumn looked up into the face of the Princess and said quietly, “There is n-no defense... h-highness.” Celestia looked surprised, she had apparentally expected the young mare to at least put up some sort of a fight. “You’re absolutely sure of that? You have nothing to say to defend yourself?” Darkest Autumn shook her head. Celestia recovered from her shock and said, “Well then... since it seems the defense has nothing to redeem herself, the matter is settled. Jury, what do you think?” Unfortunately for Autumn, the jury was made up entirely of victims to Stormy Skies and Chrysalis’ trap, all bent on revenge towards anypony who was related to the matter other than the Elements of Harmony and Celestia. They huddled together and whispered for a little while, and then finally Blossomforth turned to face Celestia and said with an air of finality, “We, the jury, all believe that Darkest Autumn is, indeed, guilty.” Princess Celestia looked down upon Autumn, her expression the opposite of mercy in every way possible. Her horn began to glow a gleaming gold. “It seems we have come to an agreement. I, Princess Celestia Solen, hereby sentence the- TWILIGHT SPARKLE, PLEASE CONTROL YOUSELF!- Pegasus Darkest Autumn to a sentence on the moon for 150 year-

“STOOOP!”

Chapter 9

Chapter 9_____________________________________________________________________
The entire courtroom gasped as they saw a changeling standing in the doorway. It galloped towards where Darkest Autumn was standing. “What are you DOING?” her mother hissed. “Run while you still can!” Celestia seemed to be twice her size when she was angry. “Stormy Alexandra Skies, You are in exile! Leave Ponyville immediately or face dire consequences!” “Not yet," she snapped, taking Celestia aback. Stormy turned back to the rest of the ponies. "Citizens of Ponyville. I... would like to issue an apology. I've lived here for 3 years, bathing you with lies. I waited until you all believed that I was truly an Alicorn Foal. I decieved you. I lied to you. And my own foolishness has led you all into this mess. “Please Stormy, leave me be,” pleaded Autumn. “I’ve already ruined your life beyond repair, I don’t want this to ruin it any more.” “I ruined my own life, mom! You have nothing to do with it,” the changeling retorted. “Everypony, I know what you are all thinking. My mother and I are the ones responsible for the attack on Ponyville, we have no right to be here. But that, my friends, is not true.” she said. “All this started because I was too cowardly to show everypony my face. If I had been more brave and trusting towards you all, this would’ve never happened. But instead I waited until you all fell for my ruse!” Stormy yelled. "I decieved you. I lied to you. And I'm sorry." She turned around so she was face to face with Celestia. “And I’m not going to let YOU punish an innocent pony for what I’ve done!” Her expression softened. “Please. Don’t make her pay for my actions. She did what she could to make me a better pony, to give changelings a good name, and I betrayed her. Take me instead. I deserve it.” she said. Celestia looked back and forth between the changeling and the convict. She suddenly stopped and stared at Autumn with a look of utmost loathing.
“You are lucky your daughter came here to take your place. I have made a change of plans." “NO!” shrieked Autumn. “Please, don’t punish her, she’s young, she didn’t know...” but Celestia ignored her.

“Stormy Skies, for the destruction of Ponyville, near enslavement of Ponykind, and alliance with the Queen of the Changelings, sworn enemies of Equestria, I hereby sentence you to the moon for one hundred and fifty years. “Goodbye, Mom.” whispered Stormy. “I love you.” Darkest Autumn was at a loss for words, but hugged her daughter. Stormy got the message. Celestia’s horn glowed an even brighter gold, and so did Stormy Skies, until finally, she faded away, and Autumn was hugging thin air. She opened her eyes, and seeing the empty space where her daughter once was, she collapsed, her face aflood with tears.

"I love you too."

Chapter 10

Chapter 10____________________________________________________________________
One Year Later, 8:47 PM

Twilight Sparkle knocked on the door of Autumn’s house. “Hello? Autumn? I haven’t seen you all day! Are you okay?” she said. “Come in!” Called a voice from inside. Twilight opened the door with her magic and stepped in, and was greeted with a Darkest Autumn staring longingly out the window. “Darkie, what are you doing?” she asked. The pegasus sighed. “Nothing...” she said. “It’s just that- oh, nevermind.” “Please tell me,” said Twilight. Darkest Autumn turned around to face her. “Oh, alright. It’s just that... today is the anniversary of when Stormy Skies got banished.” “...So?” asked Twilight Sparkle. Autumn looked back at the window. “I miss her so much... She was my daughter, I loved her and... and... I just let her get banished to the moon.” Twilight still looked confused. “...And?” Autumn began to sound annoyed. “150 YEARS, Twilight. One-hundred and fifty YEARS. Do you know how long that is? I’ll be dead by the time she comes back, and I don’t even know if changelings LIVE that long. She might die there, sitting on the moon. All because... I failed to protect her.” Twilight put a reassuring hoof around her shoulder. “There was nothing you could do, Darkie. You couldn’t have possibly known...” But the young pegasus knocked it off. “But it was MY fault she did it! I was too naive, I should’ve just told her the moment she learned to speak english... But I didn’t. I FAILED.” Twilight turned her around and looked her straight in the eye. “You didn’t tell her because you believed it was best for her. You had good intentions for your daughter because you LOVED her, and no matter where she goes you will always be connected by that love.” Darkest Autumn still looked unsure. “Fluttershy was suspicious of the attack from the beginning, and we shunned her because we were foolish enough not to have trust in our friends.” the ashen-black pegasus stared blankly. “But she still came back to rescue us from eternal enslavement. I am in her debt and feel thoroughly guilty. But I can’t spend the rest of eternity brooding over my mistakes.” She grabbed Autumn’s hoof and lifted her up. “Stormy Skies sacrificed her life so you could continue living yours. We have to move on. It... It’s what she would’ve wanted.” Finally, Darkest Autumn stood up and gave her a faint smile. “I’ll never know what she would’ve wanted, because I’m not an astro-pony. But I get what you mean.” Twilight returned the smile. “Wanna go to Sugarcube Corner? It’s open ‘till 9:00, and you haven’t been out all day.” “Okay!”

Princess Celestia sat napping contentedly in her throne room. Her slumber was disrupted by a light *thud* on the carpet floor. The sun goddess woke with a start and saw a lone scroll beneath the window. She groaned. “Honestly, Twilight, can’t your lessons about friendship wait until MORNING?” She levitated the scroll over to where she sat and began to read. She was surprised by the fact that it was not from Twilight Sparkle at all, but from somepony else.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Sorry to trouble you with meaningless messages that do not come from your faithful student, but I just feel like writing this down and sharing it with somepony.

Tonight I learned that it may be hard to forget your mistakes, or the loss of friends and family, but that no matter what happens, we should just roll with the punches and keep on going. Unless you hit somepony with a truck, then you should probably stop and take them to the hospital first. But all vehicle injuries aside, we must always remember that the show must go on.

Sincerely,

-Darkest Autumn

Celestia tossed the scroll aside halfway through the writing, she was too tired and did not feel like reading. She would leave it for tomorrow. She once again laid herself down to rest, and just before she fell asleep... Did something on Luna’s Moon just... wink at her? No, that was ridiculous, it was probably just her imagination. But nonetheless, she could not stop herself from winking back.

~~FIN~~