Green-tipped fingernails tapped along the table as Chrysalis’ eyes scanned the meeting room before her. It was another one of the usual weekly meetings where she would be updated on the standing of her companies and their overall profits and losses. A few of the faces were new at the table, no doubt the result of changes in staffing within their departments. The current speaker, a Mr. Scales, was blathering through the report and like any diligent CEO, Chrysalis was listening. The changeling couldn’t be faulted for being a little bored; such meetings were just another tedious duty for her to attend to.

A brief glance to her right made her gaze harden, as Moore was completely fixated on what Scales was saying. His hands were steepled together, blue eyes centered on the grey-haired, portly-looking man. Scales wasn’t much of a talker. He often stuttered when asked a question, and seemed more comfortable hiding at his desk than being in the figurative spotlight, yet Moore gave him his full attention without missing a beat. It almost made Chrysalis want to sneer, but she reined it in to keep her poise.

“A-as for Onyx’s total overall growth,” Scales paused to flip his report over, making Chrysalis raise an eyebrow as she detected a foreboding hesitation that emanated from him, “w-we have observed an overall 15% growth in company stock and profit. So we are making good strides thus far after the acquisition of Frostfire Industries.”

This caught Chrysalis’ attention, making her straighten in her seat and clear her throat. The simple act brought everyone’s attention to her, while her gaze zeroed in on Scales who had just seated himself. “Mr. Scales, did I hear you correctly that we only grew by 15%?” she questioned.

“Yes ma’am. W-we uh...it was 15% total,” he repeated for her. His attempt at a smile looked like it almost hurt him, being under her gaze.

Chrysalis’ lips did not even inch one bit upwards. “Correct me if I am wrong, Mr. Scales, but,” she started as she began tapping her fingernails again, “didn’t we project 30% growth by this point?”

“U-uh, well, y-yes ma’am. Originally, we had projected a 30% expected growth, based off of early investment speculation,” he replied. He brought a hand up to tug at his collar as he continued. “But the uh...t-the issue ma’am, is we hit a bit of...a-a snag.”

“And what kind of snag is that, pray tell?” Chrysalis asked. Her fingernails continued tapping upon the wooden table, audible through her words.

“Some of...some of the investors are waiting to see what happens, ma’am,” he tried to explain. “We’ve spoken with several of the financial analysts, and many are saying that they want to see what our intentions are with Frostfire. They, um,” he paused as he spared a glance at Moore, prompting Chrysalis to look at him as well. His expression was unchanged, appearing patient as if curious about what Scales was going to say. It tugged at her temper, and she scowled at him.

“They what, Scales?”

“B-because of our acquisition of Mr. Moore’s company, and the competition that was garnered between the two, many are worried further investment would be wasted if you only intend to harm the company. Ma’am.” He answered.

Chrysalis sighed and brought two fingers up to rub her temple on the right side of her head. A headache was starting to form, and the general vibe of anxiety emanating off of Scales as much as the other members of the meeting sans Moore wasn’t helping. She could usually enjoy them being a bit afraid, but fear in this instance suggested wrongdoing. Taking a slow breath, Chrysalis pressed on.

“Those imbeciles are insane to think I’d damage my own property.” She muttered before addressing the room. “People, we cannot allow for this kind of slack to take hold in our company. When we project a growth, we seek to meet it, or even shoot beyond it if possible. It falls to us to make sure we meet the high standards of this enterprise. And if someone is responsible, we cut the weakness out and establish a stronger force to make up for the loss.”

A few seemed confused by Chrysalis’ wording, looking to one another. Scales, however, saw the underlying message and paled. His nervousness was reaching throughout his form now, his hands shaking atop the table as he tried to compose himself.

“M-miss Chrysalis, I’ve done nothing but worked to make things better for you and Onyx Enterprises. T-this is just a momentary delay! A-all they need is a little time, and—”

“Time is a luxury afforded only when allowed.” Chrysalis cut him off, the man flinching at her cold tone. “And in the eyes of others, us lagging after what’s supposed to be a simple acquisition and growth of our business gives room for them to try and grow themselves. To try and make a move on us. If you cannot keep to the expectations I set forward, then perhaps someone else can?”

Scales looked ready to wilt and collapse in his seat, but Chrysalis took no satisfaction in his subservient attitude. The point remained that she was taking a hit here to her company instead of continuing to strive forward, and that would not do by any means. It’d be a bit of a pain to replace Scales, since he was an experienced employee of many years, but it would only be brief. She was getting a bit tired of his stutter anyway.

“Might I cut in here?”

Moore’s voice snapped through the fog of anxiety mulling in the air around Scales and the others, while Chrysalis had to bite back a snort and turned to her new advisor.

“For what, might I ask?” Chrysalis questioned.

“Acting in the interest of the company, of course. As your advisor.” Moore replied. His sheer calm before her tugged at her temper again, making the changeling clench her fist beneath the table to keep from lashing out verbally. “Mr. Scales, it is my understanding that you did meet with each of these analysts and obtained these reports from them. Is that right?”

“Y-yes, Mr. Moore sir.” Scales replied.

“So, logic would dictate that Scales’ job was actually done right. The projections he put forward were backed by his team’s research, but even a well-calculated guess can be off the mark from unexpected variables.” Moore continued. “The only people causing us trouble are the people outside of the company’s employment, the customers and clients we need to reach.” At this, he turned to face Chrysalis, who regarded him with a scowl.

“Is there a point to this speculation, Moore?”

“Indeed there is. We need to simply up our game and further reassure the outside world that Onyx Enterprises is only going to strive for further success, and not squander potential.” Moore told her. Chrysalis didn’t bat an eye at Moore’s calm aura; unlike the others, he had enough of a backbone to not be intimidated just because of her position as CEO. The black-haired male turned back to address Scales.

“What I’d advise is, instead of treating this as some sort of failure, turn it into an opportunity. If the holdouts want reassurance of their investments, we just need to show some genuine growth and progress. For example: using the 15% increase we have obtained and moving it to departments or areas that can in turn show further reason for investment. If we make it come full circle, so that we can have a continuous growth, our future goals can be met. What’s more, they may be met at even faster intervals once we gain enough momentum.”

The rest of the room nodded at the analysis as he laid it out for them. Scales especially seemed thankful, his anxiety mellowing as Moore spoke. When he had finished, the rest of the room turned to the changeling CEO who had yet to stop glaring at Moore’s intrusion on her position. Realizing that the rest of the room was waiting for her decision, Chrysalis comprehended her go-to response would only hinder her, even with the satisfaction of eliminating Scales just to spite Moore and his suggestion. The business side of her mind, however, made it clear that she needed to give here, to better reach the intended goal of success she desired.

“Mr. Moore’s suggestion holds...some merit, I suppose.” She finally let out, turning her attention back to the gathered employees. “Perhaps I was a little...rash, in having such high expectations so fast without considering potential hurdles or outside elements. Mr. Scales?”

“Y-yes ma’am?”

“You keep your post for now. I will, however, expect regular updates on our progress and any other future problems that may arise in the near future.” She instructed him, getting a nod from the heavy-set man. “If you’ll excuse me, ladies and gentlemen. Moore, come with me.”

The abrupt ending to the meeting caught a couple off guard, but Chrysalis didn’t care to pay them any heed. She made for her office across the level, her steps echoing on the tile as she half paced, half stomped towards her personal area. Moore kept pace with long strides, but to her further irritation, seemed unaffected by the idea of being alone with her while she was angry. Her magic acted on her will, opening the door and closing it hard once she and Moore were inside.

“I thought that went rather well.” Moore’s comment finally snapped her patience, and Chrysalis turned to him with a snarl on her lips, her fangs bared as she grit her teeth in anger.

“How fucking dare you upstage me in my own business. Who the hell do you think you are, Moore?” She demanded.

“Your advisor, for one.” He replied. His calm was more defiant to her in this moment than if he’d outright slapped her. He was completely ignoring the chain of command, the implied hierarchy she had worked to establish in her business. “You were only considering one option. A smart and capable leader considers more than the one option at the table.”

“Don’t talk down to me like a child!” She half-yelled. “You think I hadn’t considered that option myself? That I could just let it go and believe in good faith things are progressing fine?”

“I wonder if all changelings behave like this. So brash when they think they’re challenged.” Moore replied, meeting her gaze as his hands fell to his pockets. “Is that why those rogue sects tried to assault the capital all those years ago? And failed spectacularly in one day?”

Chrysalis growled, but drew in her anger and capped off the response she’d have liked to usher out. He was just trying to push her buttons, to get her riled up because it was the game for him now. Moore wanted her to get upset; one could even argue it was throwing himself in the line of fire just to have grounds to use against her in the future. Taking a slow breath, Chrysalis turned away from Moore and walked over to one of the nearby windows. The high vantage allowed one a view of much of the city, all the way past the central park and beyond to the city’s residential areas to the East.

“Those changelings...they were fools.” She answered. “They were of the mindset that pure magical might would be enough to grip a country, and make everyone bend at the knee in respect to it. But they miscalculated horribly. And even though I had no ties to them, save for my very magic, I was forced to act to make sure I was set apart from them. Because the imbeciles of Canterlot, of Equestria, all of them just see the twisted horn, the green glow of our magic, and we’re all colored the same way.”

She turned back to Moore, glaring at him. “I am not like my estranged kin. I’m not one to be lured into simple tricks, to be manipulated, and least of all disrespected. I worked through blood, sweat, and tears to get my company from the ground to where it stands now, and on top of that, elevating myself above others so they had no choice but to acknowledge me. To respect me.” The carpeted floor muffled her footsteps as she approached Moore.

“I gave you this position to give you a chance to stay in our circle of work, Moore. To keep you in the know, so you wouldn’t be left to squirm and pathetically beg on the streets for some sort of second-rate position. Instead of obliterating you and your employees, I gave them all a chance to continue on, with only the small request of understanding that I, not you, are the boss now.”

“A boss earns respect from the effort and work they put in, not just being a pretty face and relishing the profits her employees earn her.” Moore countered. “You might be savvy with some aspects of business, but you’re not gonna see me bowing over hand and knee anytime soon.”

Chrysalis scoffed. “I don’t need to. This pretty face saw that aplenty when you signed your contract agreeing to work for me. In case you forgot.” She pointed out back at him. “But, fine; I guess you must think you still have some bark in your bite, is that it?”

“You wouldn’t have offered me the job of advisor if I didn’t, Chrysalis.”

Chrysalis flicked her hair out of her face with her hand and sighed. “Oh, Moore. It’s adorable how you try to act like a big boy. But if you’re going to talk big, then play big.” She said, making him stare in confusion at her words.

“What’re you on about?”

“A challenge. To really see if you’re worth the post I have you in, or if for once in my life, I misjudged you and you’re just a ball of hot air.” She explained as she turned away and walked to her desk, turning back around to face him as she leaned against it. “I mean, I can’t just sign you on and not have you prove yourself. Of course, you can back out if you want, but it’ll mean the termination of your contract and your ass out those doors faster than any of the Wonderbolts can fly.”

Moore snorted but folded his arms over his chest, unbudging. “And if I beat your little challenge, then I stay on, and you actually listen to what I have to say?”

“I’ll give it due consideration.”

“...Fine. Bring it on.”

Chrysalis only grinned at his acceptance; he didn’t even seem to grasp how she’d walked him right into the trap of the challenge, away from his thoughts on her work methods. It was Moore’s confidence, or rather arrogance, that she reasoned would be his undoing and her entertainment.

“Let’s get started then.”

The first of Chrysalis’ plans to try and get through to break Moore’s stubborn will was enacted the next day following that meeting. Being the CEO, Chrysalis needed little effort to designate Moore as the head of several of her lesser assets. She reasoned that Moore could handle them, being much smaller in scale compared to Onyx or Frostfire’s own size. She set the limit to three, a caution in case Moore’s actions went south or if he attempted sabotage. Informing the advisor of his new charges had been an amusing encounter, she recalled. He’d almost looked to blow a blood vessel.

“You seriously expect me to handle three other companies, as well as advising you on all others? How can you expect me to do that?” Moore demanded, glaring at the changeling who was seated behind her desk.

“Come now, Tony. You’re in the big leagues now, and being in the big leagues means having big responsibilities.” She had taunted him, enjoying the frustration on his face. “Of course, if you have too much trouble, you can always tell me so. After all, we both know that I can handle this kind of work quite well. How else did I get you onboard?”

Moore scoffed, but folded his arms over his chest in defiance. “I’d sooner shave my head bald than admit that to you. We both know that.”

“Indeed we do.” Chrysalis said, grinning still as he departed to carry out his duties.

Chrysalis took no small amount of glee in learning that Moore found many a trouble in each of the companies she’d handed him. She was all too well aware of Crystal Radio’s staffing issues, and of the lack of organization in Hardhoof’s Manufacturing; such assets were easy enough to control and earn profit from, she knew, but managing them and improving them was a headache enough for her to leave them alone. But Chrysalis kept her eye on Moore’s progress regardless; those were still her properties, and any problems they might cause were problems caused for her, and no such thing would stand. Each week, she asked for a progress report on each company, learning of Moore’s progress and what he was doing to make sure he fulfilled her task.

What she did not count on, however, was for Moore to actually succeed.

At first, the CEO took it as a simple upswing with the season progressing. Stock prices would change at an ever unpredictable fluctuation, and in accordance, so too would her wealth. But the steady increase with each week, as reported by Moore and fact-checked by her own two eyes, showed that Moore’s diligence was stronger than she’d expected. And what’s worse: she could find no error in his actions. Moore had reshuffled, reorganized, overturned and adjusted each company he’d been given duty over, and the results spoke for themselves.

This was not an entirely negative outcome to the changeling woman. Such success in each company meant an improvement for Chrysalis’ standing. Several of her competitors took notice of these improvements, and so too did the investors, as they left their once-solid associates to ally themselves to her empire. She should have taken such news as a success, and were it any other person, she’d have obliged to a request for a raise in pay or maybe even a promotion. But beyond her practiced smile and calm boiled an irritated woman watching her plan backfire before her eyes.

“It’s utterly infuriating. He actually met my challenge and bested it.” She said as she read over the latest report. The changeling was seated in her office, her sole company being Moondancer who had brought her the report as well as her regular notices and memos. Chrysalis didn’t look up from the paperwork, hoping that under her scrutiny, some sort of mishap or mistake would show itself. Misuse of resources, improper staffing, loss in sales; but nothing of the kind yielded under her glare.

“Most bosses would be happy to see the progress, even if it is at the hands of someone they don’t like particularly.” Moondancer replied, adjusting her glasses that had been sliding down her nose. “We can’t forget, this man was your business rival. He had to have some degree of skill to hold that spot.”

“Even so.” Chrysalis started, but sighed and set the report down, rubbing the bridge of her nose with her thumb and index finger. “Most people would be overburdened by such an undertaking. They’d call on someone in my position for help, which I would have given. The point of this was cutting down that asshole’s confidence so he’d not think himself so high and mighty, and yet, he goes and makes things actually work!”

“To be fair, Chrysalis, this isn’t a total failure. The improvements he made to each company mean they function that much better, and in turn, will make you that much more profit. We can take success from that, at least.” Moondancer offered.

Chrysalis looked over at the bookish woman before her, giving a quiet nod at her statement. “I suppose it was a bit of a gamble either way. It’ll take more than just work to make him break.” She admitted. “I honestly wish he’d be more like you, Moony. At least you show me some degree of respect.”

“So long as my paycheck says to, sure.”

Chrysalis snorted, shaking her head while Moondancer offered a sly smile. “You’d be one of the last ones to ever get a pay cut. Your talents are far too useful.” She told her.

Thinking on it, Moondancer had been a true diamond in the rough for her to uncover. When Chrysalis had first begun to climb the corporate ladder, there were many hazards and pitfalls waiting to swallow her up and cut off her ascension early. One of those was a lack of assistance in managing her own duties, leaving the changeling to spend many a late night working to keep to task at what was expected of her. Even then, she knew that there was a better way of doing this, of running her responsibilities, but the answer eluded her until one visit to the local library.

At the time, Chrysalis’ job was desk work for a mineral resource company, Blackstone. She had been tasked with compiling a report on potential new companies to invest in, but it was taxing as she found little aid from anyone else at the office. Within the local library, while trying to skim for books to help her, Chrysalis had come upon the then librarian who was more than happy to offer her assistance. Explaining her purpose led Moondancer to assist her far beyond just locating the books she’d need; she was even able to readily explain just what kinds of minerals Blackstone would be smart to dig for and use, while what to avoid in the future to keep from losing profits.

Her report had proven true, and led Chrysalis to soon establish a friendship and working partnership with Moondancer. Her resourcefulness and intellect was an unexpected boon, and once Chrysalis had climbed up far enough in the ladder to earn her own assistant, Moondancer had been her first choice. Her organizational talents had been a godsend, as well as her strict taste for order and no-nonsense mannerisms. Professionally speaking, Chrysalis would be hard pressed to find as exemplary an assistant as she was.

“Was there anything else, Moony? Or is that it for the report?” She questioned.

Moondancer flipped through the pages in her grasp before looking up at the changeling again. “Other than the regular daily memo I gave you this morning, no ma’am.”

“I don’t know about you, but I’m exhausted from today. I feel like a good drink at home is the right remedy.” Chrysalis told her. “You can go on ahead and head home for today if you want. I’m going to go over these a final time. Moore isn’t the only stubborn one around here.”

Moondancer stood up from her seat, straightening her dark skirt with her magic before nodding. “If you’re sure, Chrysalis. Don’t overtax yourself. The first plan isn’t the best plan, usually.” She advised to her, earning a nod from the cerulean-haired CEO. “Speaking of plans, I might see if Thorax would want to grab a bite to eat.”

“Might want a bite of you, maybe.” Chrysalis muttered.

“What was that?” Moondancer questioned.

“Oh, nothing. Just reading something aloud.” Chrysalis told her. “Thorax’s probably still in his office. Just knock.” When Moondancer had departed, Chrysalis shook her head and went back to reading the reports. Time blurred from there for the changeling, but by the time she’d finished again, a good half hour had passed. Her own phone was pinging her to tell her the working day was done, and she clicked off the alert before standing from her desk and stretching, extending her arms up above her before letting them fall to her sides.

Exiting the office, Chrysalis paused as an unfamiliar feeling of warmth crossed over her form. The entire office level was unusually hot, making her business clothes feel stuffy in short time. “What the hell now.” She muttered, making for the thermostat controls on the far side of the room. The small apparatus was giving an error message on its display, making Chrysalis frown upon reading it. “Don’t I pay them enough to keep this thing running?”

“I don’t know. Do you?”

‘Tartarus take me now.’ Chrysalis thought to herself before turning to face Moore, who had appeared on her right. “Moore. What a great face to see.” She greeted, letting her dry tone convey all the sarcasm she needed. “It seems the maintenance crew neglected to finish fixing the AC units.”

“It was in the memo from this morning. The wiring needs fixing, so they had to turn it off this morning for some of the levels. Your office is ventilated, but outside of it, the rest of us bake.” He informed her. “Another perk of the top.”

“Save the social commentary for another day, Moore. I’ve spent the better part of today having to review your actions, and that used up just about all the patience I had.” She told him, turning away from the apparatus to make for the elevator. That drink she was thinking to get when she got home was turning stiffer now that she had Moore nearby. It brought back to the surface of her mind all the irritation he’d given through his profitable, if defiant acts.

“Didn’t find any trap holes, did you?”

“If I did, you wouldn’t be standing here.” Chrysalis replied. “For that matter, why are you even here?”

“As per your instructions, I was backing up a copy of all my reports for safekeeping. The office you granted me is on the opposite side of the floor.” He explained, pointing a finger at one of the few doorways other than Chrysalis’ office on this floor. It had no nameplate, since Moore’s position as overseer of those companies wasn’t an official post just yet, only a trial run. “Hardly my fault if you ignore me being here.”

“Oh, if only.” Chrysalis grumbled as they both came to a stop before the elevator, Chrysalis pushing the button before folding her arms over her chest as they were made to wait for the elevator’s arrival. The seconds seemed to drag on in the changeling’s mind, further embellished by the annoying presence of Moore beside her. The two had spoken little since the last time she’d had a meeting with him, barring brief recognitions/greetings of the other in passing when moving to and from places within the building.

A glance over at the suited man beside her made her want to sigh; business etiquette demanded she at least acknowledge what her coworker had been doing, even if it was a labor to do so. And as much as she would hate to say he did well, the numbers didn’t lie. “Moore.” She said, grabbing his attention. Once he was looking at her, she met his gaze and continued. “You did well with those businesses. Your solutions to their problems made each of them more functional and capable of serving my company’s needs.”

“Thank you.” He replied, and Chrysalis nodded before turning her gaze back to the steel doors she was waiting to see open and get them both downstairs. ‘At least he can take a compliment without-’

“Of course, if they hadn’t been left to such states in the first place, the whole mess could’ve been avoided.”

‘I fucking hate him.’ Chrysalis clenched her arm in a tight grip and kept from moving physically. Mentally, the changeling was of half a mind to magic his mouth shut, ethics be damned.

“Some problems require the right hands to be fixed. And responsibility doesn’t always fall to the topmost levels of the ladder when there’s an answer right before their eyes.” She replied. The elevator dinged finally, permitting the two to enter it and begin their descent down. “I keep a sharp eye on many things, but I’m not a babysitter.”

“I imagine children would flee in terror at being around you anyway.” Moore fired back.

“Speaking from experience, Moore?” The elevator’s passing of each floor was accompanied with a light ding sound, interweaving between their words.

“Hardly. People smile when they see me instead of pissing their pants.”

“If they don’t have the balls to hold their ground around me, they have no business being near me.”

“So that’s why the office is so high up? I thought it was just keeping your ego out of the air flow.”

“Is that really the best you can do, Moore? And here I thought you had some intelligence in you, but maybe I was wr-”

A sudden jerk of the elevator made her fumble, her footing shuffling, though she managed to stay upright. “What the fuck?” she exclaimed as the elevator came to a stop, and the lights flickered off. It was dark for a brief moment before the emergency lights kicked on, bathing the small space in fluorescent light so they could still see. The display of the floor number had changed to an “error” message. “What just happened?”

“The elevator’s locked itself in place.” Moore said from her side, standing upright from the floor where he’d moved to his knees when the jerking motions had started. “It’s a failsafe to keep us from falling when something’s gone wrong.”

“No shit something’s gone wrong.” Chrysalis huffed, glaring over at him before tapping the emergency call button on the bottom of the floor control box. The signal light next to it clicked on, a ringing noise filling the space before someone picked up.

“Emergency services?”

“Yes. This is Chrysalis at Onyx Enterprises. We’re stuck in the main elevator; it's locked itself in place.” She spoke into the intercom. “What happened?”

“One moment ma’am.” The calm male voice on the other end said, before the tapping of a computer keyboard came through. A moment later, he spoke up. “We see it here. One of the circuits overloaded and triggered the failsafe. We are working on re-routing it to another circuit so the elevator can resume operation.”

“How long will that take?” Moore said from his side.

“It may be a short while. We’re sending technicians your way now, who can fix it on site. Please be patient, and remain stationary inside the elevator to avoid triggering any other malfunctions.” The operator answered before the intercom clicked off.

“Great.” Chrysalis huffed to herself, standing up and looking to Moore. “We’re stuck here until they get us out.”

“Oh joy.” He said, dusting off his shirt. “Don’t suppose you can magic us out, could you?” he asked, nodding at the small black horn that jutted out from her forehead.

“I can’t. For security reasons, the elevator’s metal was infused with anti-magic material. No teleportation, no telekinesis, none of that here.” She answered, wracking her brain for any other workarounds. “The doors are shut tight too; last thing we need is someone trying to wrench them open and get caught if the elevator moves again.”

Moore sighed, bringing the palm of his hand to his forehead. “Thirty flights of stairs doesn’t sound so bad now.”

Chrysalis growled to herself, but chose to lean back against the wall on her side. With the elevator locked in place, it also meant the air had few places to go, making the already warm space only warmer. She tugged a finger along her shirt collar, trying to ease things a bit, but it did little to help. There was no real way out of this short of waiting for the techs to come in and get things rolling again.

The quiet soaked up the air between herself and Moore, Chrysalis seating herself on the floor with her legs curled under herself as some small means of support. The seconds seemed to tick by as slow as a turtle would crawl, further irritating the CEO. Her fingers idled with the hem of her skirt that ended above her knee. It would’ve been marginally better if it was just herself in here, but being stuck with Moore obligated conversation or concern. She checked her phone, but the service was barely present in the shaft.

“I guess your phone’s not much use here either?” Moore spoke up from his spot, drawing the changeling’s attention to him. He was seated similar to her, with his back to the wall and legs stretched out over one another on the floor.

“Hardly. Right now, it's an expensive piece of plastic and metal chips.” She replied. “And of course, it's unbearably warm in here. Feels like we’re trying to roast.”

“Close enough. At least soon enough they’ll get it working again and we’ll be on our way.” Moore stated, closing his eyes as he sat there.

Chrysalis cast her gaze back to him from her phone, scrutinizing the seated man opposite her. His slackened arms laid at ease at his sides, his hands calm in his lap. For someone who was complaining a minute ago, she noted, he kept a calm outward appearance in the face of an emergency. She chalked it up to being part of who he was; a businessman who could keep his wits and balance steady even under the bulk of pressure. Even if he was irritating in his stubbornness of opposing her, she could acknowledge that he knew how to handle himself.

Minutes trickled by, and Chrysalis spoke up to breach the cloud of silent between them. “Answer a question for me, Moore.” she said.

“No, I’m not going to climb out of the shaft for you.” He replied, making her frown over at him.

“If I thought you could, I’d have suggested it ages ago.” she quipped back. “What made you decide to put your lot in with the stocks business? Were you looking to make your own cut of wealth? Did you want to be at the top?”

“What, interviewing me now? I’ve already been working for you for weeks.” He said, making her bare her teeth in a snarl while he just grinned at her frustration. She’d be more composed, but their situation and the heat combined was digging away at her reserves. “I wanted to do better for my family. We weren’t exactly starting off on a high mark, when I came around.”

“A family man. How touching.” She replied, looking to the elevator door. For a moment, she entertained the notion of it suddenly opening to free them, but knew such would not come to pass. “I wonder how they took to hearing about your fortune of late.”

“They were supportive. I told them I was still earning good pay and keeping up with things, still had a decent job.” He answered. “Even if my boss is a maniacal tyrant.”

“Who is sharing the same elevator as you and doesn’t take kindly to insults. So watch your tongue.” She clipped out, staring him down from her spot. Even stuck as they were, he still rebelled, still frustrated her. The heat of her temper blended with the warm atmosphere of the elevator, as sweat crawled down her back beneath her clothes. “Am I really so hard to get along with, Moore? Or are you just intentionally aggravating to everyone you work with?”

“To everyone else, I’m a completely good and capable partner. For you? I like to think of it as a goal of sorts to see you get frustrated. Rattling ‘Cold Chrysalis’ can’t go on a resume, but it doesn’t lessen its appeal.” He answered. The smirk on his face made Chrysalis want to slap it right off of him.

“Of course you’d say such a ridiculous thing. What should I have expected from some two-bit car salesman?” she fired back. Tugging again at her shirt collar, Chrysalis growled to herself before sitting up and shrugging out of the black blazer she’d been wearing all day. She did enjoy the outfit, but in this heat, it was stifling her. The white, buttoned up shirt clung to her figure, and she was quick to undo the top two buttons, exposing the top of her chest and letting her cleavage peek out. It was a small effort, but enough to help her cool off a little.

“Whoa, hey!” Moore exclaimed from the other side of the elevator, making her glance over to see him frowning at her. “What’s the deal?”

“In case you haven’t noticed, Moore, we’re cooking like roast ducks. So I sought to make myself more comfortable while we’re stuck here.” She answered, looking at the elevator doors again. “I’m seriously considering making a separate AC system for these elevators from here on. This is absurd.”

Moore’s quiet was welcome, at first. When she glanced over at him again a minute later to see him still observing her, she cocked an eyebrow. “Is there a problem, Moore?”

“No. Not at all. Just weird to see you like this.” He answered, looking away and at the ceiling.

“If it's your first time seeing a woman, congratulations. We exist.” She said, flicking a loose strand of her hair out of her face. “Must be surprising to see without your head up your ass.”

“Excuse me for not being used to seeing someone like you in casual wear.” He remarked. Had Chrysalis been calmer, she’d have brushed the remark off. But the way he said it tugged at her subconscious, and she glared back at him.

“Someone like me? Are you trying to say something about the way I look, Moore?” she growled out, staring him down when he looked back at her. Her venomous expression made him hold his hands up.

“Whoa, whoa. Easy, Chrysalis. I said I’m not used to seeing you in casual wear. You’re always dressed for business. I didn’t say you looked bad. Calm down.” He answered.

It took Chrysalis a moment to determine he was being truthful, and the glare faded away to a firm stare before she looked at the intercom. “Smart choice of words. One more insult, and you’d be falling down this shaft like your career did.” she clipped out. It took her a moment to calm down from that, closing her eyes and breathing in slow, deep breaths to focus herself again. “Maybe we should try calling them again?”

“We could, maybe.” Moore agreed, getting up from his seat. As soon as he did, however, the intercom sparked to life again.

“Miss Chrysalis? We’ve patched up the wiring for the elevator. It should resume its descent in just a moment. We apologize for the inconvenience.” The voice spoke, prompting Chrysalis to stand and speak into it.

“Just get us to the ground safely so we can all go home. I’ll be making sure to have these all inspected so we can avoid any future accidents.” She said. The CEO turned and bent over, plucking up her blazer and folding it over her arm. A moment later, the elevator lurched into movement as the hum of machinery arose once more. The rest of the descent didn’t take long, and the doors opened to reveal the bottom lobby of the building. The night shift secretary looked up from her post, observing the two emerging from the elevator before going back to her desk work. Chrysalis sighed to herself, glad to be free from the elevator and being stuck with Moore the entire time. Thinking of the individual, she turned and saw him watching her again, but he didn’t flinch this time from her stare.

“Goodnight, Moore. Let’s hope tomorrow brings us far less catastrophe.” She said before turning away and exiting the building through the sliding glass doors. The only thought on the CEO’s mind now was getting home and away from the frustrations of her job, most especially away from Moore. Once she was inside her waiting limousine, and instructing the driver to crank up the AC, she laid back against the seat and tried to put the day out of her mind.

“Ahh…”

The extended sigh of relief from the changeling’s lips filled the bathroom as she sank into the water, the warmth of it surrounding her body as she let her torso fall beneath the waterline so just her head could be seen above. The comfort of the bath did wonders to ease the CEO from the strains of her unexpected afternoon. There were far too many frustrations from the day that allowed her to wholly relax once she was home. A bath was the first definite thing she wanted, and it hit the spot straight away.

Letting out a content hum, Chrysalis inhaled and then exhaled in a long slow breath as the warm water helped her settle in. She could keep up a collected face well enough when it mattered, but a woman had a right to treat herself when she wanted and lower her guard. After dealing with Moore and being stuck in the elevator after the long work day, it was just the ticket to get her out of feeling burned out.

As her hands caressed down her slender arms, rubbing at the tense muscles they found, Chrysalis let a smile play upon her face. She did indeed deserve a treat, one she hadn’t taken in some time. Closing her eyes, she let out a soft sigh as her hands left her arms and drifted elsewhere. Her right hand crawled down her belly to her groin, while her left groped at her bosom. The soft flesh gave as her fingers squeezed around her breast, evoking a soft groan while her nimble fingers below went to work. The dexterous digits spread her labia with ease, her middle finger working itself into her depths and beginning a steady stroke back and forth that pleasured the changeling.

It was just the thing for Chrysalis after a hectic day; she didn’t need to go out and find some stooge to get her own pleasures when she could handle it on her own. The buxom woman’s eyes stayed closed as her middle finger dug deeper into her, pushing to the knuckle before withdrawing, pumping in and out while she continued to grab at her breast. Her hardened nipple brushed against her palm, making her purr as she gave the darkened nub a slight tweak and tug. There wasn’t much to fantasize in this moment for her; it was more about basking in the pleasure she was being given.

Chrysalis huffed and soon added a second finger to the first’s efforts, adding width to the penetrating feeling yet still not quite reaching that itch, that sweet spot she was craving. She tried to move faster, spreading her long legs further apart to either side of the bath while bucking her hips up into her fingers’ motions. It was enjoyable, but still lacked that full effort she knew her body was craving. The changeling’s eyes snapped open as she stopped her fingers, rolling her eyes at her own forgetfulness.

“I really am having an off day.” She told herself before withdrawing her fingers, a quiver of pleasure crossing her nethers as they brushed against her labia on the way out. Exiting the bath, she made for the nearby cabinet where she kept various products to maintain her superb appearance. But it wasn’t her hair, her lips, or any other part needing help at that moment. Her fingers clasping onto the round lengthy item, she grinned and plucked it out. Her digging rewarded her with the smooth, sleek black dildo she’d hidden inside the cabinet for such times.

The length was several inches long, easily able to reach deep inside her, with a width she reckoned matched the bananas in her kitchen. It bore a slight curve to its shape, something she found particularly helpful at times when trying to find the sweet spots for her pleasure. Returning to the bath, the voluptuous woman sank back into the heated waters before settling her back against the end of the bath, keeping her propped up and comfortable while she let her fingers return to pleasuring her, warming her up for the main event she was craving.

Reckoning a minute’s workup was enough, she withdrew her fingers again before bringing the stiff tip of the dildo to her lips, the slow pressure adding to her anticipation before it was penetrating her, making her gasp and moan aloud. It was just what she was looking for, and Chrysalis arched her back as more and more of the toy slipped into her depths. She could feel it spreading her walls apart, stretching to accommodate the welcome intruder. A smile crept onto her lips as she gripped the dildo’s base, beginning to work it back and forth.

The water of the bath splashed in tandem with her arm’s jerking motions, the changeling riding out each thrust of the toy with gasps escaping her lips every few moments. As the pleasure rose inside her, Chrysalis spread her legs wider, her pussy gripping tight around the toy. She envisioned for a moment some fortunate male she’d picked up to entertain her, thrusting at his best to try and pleasure her. He’d have plenty of energy, sure, but he was only a tool for her use. He’d gasp at feeling her clench around him, and surrender to the ecstasy of her pussy squeezing his cock. There was no need to look at his face; she knew they loved being under her control.

She could feel herself almost there, needing just that touch more effort to work her up. Letting go of her breast she’d been toying with, Chrysalis’ index finger found where her clitoris was throbbing, and gave the nub a practiced but enjoyable rubbing that shot sparks up through her torso. It was enough that the sudden burst of climax exploded from her depths, evoking a drawn out moan as the orgasm washed over her. She let her head fall back against the wall of the bath, basking in the ecstasy emanating from her now clenching pussy that squeezed the dildo within her.

When she finally relaxed, she withdrew the toy from her depths and laid it on the floor next to the bath. The session was just what the changeling needed to unwind and feel back on track. Emerging from the now lukewarm waters, she stepped over to the nearby vanity, picking up her towel and dabbing at herself to towel away the loose droplets of water still clinging to her. She peered at the mirror, but the steam of her bath had fogged the glass. Her horn glowing, another towel came up and brushed at the mirror while Chrysalis’ hands set about brushing her long hair to free it of any knots or tangles.

Seeing her reflection unobstructed gave the woman pause, her brushing strokes stopping as her harlequin green eyes scanned over her appearance. It reminded her of Moore’s reaction in the elevator earlier, how he’d been more surprised than she’d expected. His expression made her scoff now; it was like he’d never seen an attractive woman before. “Maybe back home, all the girls were the same plain Janes?” she told her reflection. Bringing her hand up, she ran a finger along her eyebrows, looking for any imperfections in her face.

The finger came to a stop at her cheek, her eyes squinting as an idea started itching at the back of her mind. It dawned on the woman as curiosity gave way to realization: that was her way in. She was the ticket to breaching Moore’s so-called impenetrable walls. A wicked grin came to her face as she weighed the option out. It would take a good amount of time, and effort on her part to work her way in. But if it worked out, Chrysalis would finally break that stubborn man’s will and finally establish herself as the true top dog between them.

She continued to smile as she left the bathroom for her bedroom, the newly hatched plan taking root as she let her devious nature go to work. It’s been said that stepping into a changeling’s web was always dangerous; but no one ever thought of the changeling being on the prowl.

Author's Note

Chapter Two is complete! Chrysalis gets to see how well her plan works out for her, with both good and bad consequences following her. But with a new plan in mind, what does it mean for Moore and Chrysalis? You'll just have to see what happens next week! Stay tuned!