Shot Through The Heart

Chapters

Shot through the heart
And you're to blame
I play my part
And you play your game
You give love a bad name

Shot through the heart

“Following me down here alone will be your last mistake, Twilight Sparkle!”

Chrysalis’ voice boomed around Twilight from the shadows of the dank catacombs. Light from Twilight’s horn fought for ground against the darkness that filled the space between the towering stalagmites and tunnel walls. Twilight braved the cavernous depths, unperturbed by the directionless voice.

“It won’t be long until my friends get here. Until then, if you want to get out, you’ll have to go through me!” Twilight said. “There’s still a chance to resolve things peacefully if you stand down.”

“After everything you ponies have taken from me?” Chrysalis scoffed. “I’d rather die than lose the only possession I have left.”

Twilight’s ears pinned back. Her gaze swept the area for any signs of movement. Inspecting her environment, Twilight realized that Chrysalis could attack from any angle and she wouldn’t be able to see her until it was too late.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked. Her ears flicked upwards in an attempt to focus on the direction of Chrysalis’ response. A soft green glow flickered to Twilight’s left, catching her attention instead.

She raised a shield just before the beam shot forth. It bounced off with a blinding spark. Twilight threw a purple sphere of magic in that direction. Light exploded from the ball, only to reveal nothing.

“You’ve taken my subjects…!”

Another blast, this time from the right. The shield came up a second too late. Agony exploded from the grazing shot on her forehead, ripping a scream out of Twilight’s throat. She recoiled and stumbled from the mind-numbing pain, though not before she fired off a magical blast toward the source, destroying a portion of the cavern wall. Her breathing came out in shudders as the reality of nearly losing her head settled in.

“My kingdom! My home!”

Twilight screamed as a bolt of green magic slammed into her side. In her peripheral, she caught a flicker of green light. She just in time managed to place another barrier to absorb the blast.

“I will see Equestria turned to ash before I let you take away my pride!”

Streaks of light peppered Twilight’s shield, none from the same direction for more than a few seconds. The barrier’s light dimmed with every hail of magic thrown at her. One eye squinted from the trail of blood running down her forehead, Twilight peered closely at the shadows. South. East. North. West. South again. North once more. Energy flickered west. That’s when it clicked in her mind.

Gotcha!

Right when she absorbed the blast from the west, Twilight dropped the shield and unleashed a powerful blast at the east.

Chrysalis had just emerged from teleportation, only to get rocked by Twilight’s blast and sent flying into the now cracked wall. She fell on her stomach with an ‘oof’, carapace badly scratched from impact. Her horn sparked with magic as she picked herself off the floor, glaring daggers at Twilight.

“If you believe for even a second that such paltry strike would stop—”

“Enough!”

Another magical burst slammed into Chrysalis, blasting her into the wall again. This time the wind was knocked out of her, leaving her sprawled on the ground.

“We didn’t ask for any of this, nor do we want to take away your pride.” Twilight shook the stars out of her eyes from the intense use of magic. “All we want is to stop fighting and find a peaceful end to this violence!”

“Never!” Chrysalis coughed, wiping emerald blood from her muzzle as she staggered to her hooves. She was about to move forward, likely to attack, then hesitated the moment Twilight’s glare hardened. “I'll never bow to you, filthy pest! It's because of you ponies that I lost everything!”

Twilight shook her head. “We haven’t done anything but defend ourselves. It was your spite and selfishness that was your downfall. If even a drop of all that stolen love reached your frozen heart, you could have avoided all of this!”

Chrysalis seethed in silence.

“It's not too late,” Twilight pleaded. “You can get past this hatred. This anger. Give us an opportunity to help you find happiness. We can only help you if you let us.” She dared a few steps closer. Chrysalis shriveled back and snarled. “Think of all the friends you could have. The love you could get if you just opened your heart, even just a little bit.”

“Spout your nonsense all you want. You’ll never be anything more than food to me!”

Twilight growled. “I’ll find a way to get through to you, Chrysalis. There has to be more than hate somewhere inside you. If the other changelings can learn to give love rather than take, I know you can do the same.”

“You know nothing about me!” Chrysalis snapped.

Twilight was about to snap back when a peculiar thought struck her. The evolved changelings no longer hungered for love and lived far healthier, happier lives. Chrysalis, having lived for so many centuries, had to know such a thing was possible. But if she did, then why go through so much trouble to live the way they did when most of their food issues could’ve been solved by—

“Actually…” Twilight pondered aloud, “you have a point. I know practically nothing about you. Have you ever felt anything remotely close to love for another living being? Do you even know what it means to love someone?”

“Pointless questions,” Chrysalis sneered. “All that matters is—”

“You don’t even know what love is, do you?” Twilight cut her off. Chrysalis recoiled. “It’s only been food to you. It’s a wild guess, but for as many centuries as you’ve lived, I can’t imagine you didn’t know something about changelings evolving through releasing love. I think you knew the truth for a long time, didn’t you? You knew, yet you kept the truth from your own subjects.”

Chrysalis went silent. Her baleful stare intensified.

“Love is a concept even a little foal can grasp, yet it’s clear this never registered for you with your subjects. It’s rather sad, actually. All that love you’ve taken without really understanding it. You really are all alone, aren’t you?”

Chrysalis’ expression went blank, as if her mind had slipped from the proverbial rug being pulled from under it. For a single moment, Twilight sensed a cold void behind Chrysalis’s gaze. An icy sensation crawled up Twilight’s back, shaken from the realization that her assumption might have been more correct than she could’ve ever imagined.

That moment of vulnerability was gone as quickly as it came, swallowed by pure, feral rage. With a bone-rattling cry that turned Twilight’s legs to jelly, Chrysalis charged forward.

Twilight grounded her legs and poured magic into her horn, ready to counterattack.

We’ve given you every possible chance to turn your life around! More than most ponies get their entire lives! Why? Why can’t you open your eyes?

Chrysalis galloped headlong at Twilight, fangs bared.

Why can’t you get it through your thick skull that I want to save you?!

With the flash of her horn, Chrysalis vanished.

Twilight reared back in surprise, especially when Chrysalis reappeared in front of her in a mid-air lunge.

She panicked and fired.

The blast sliced through the ceiling in a brilliant display of pure power.

Twilight’s face ashened as that power pierced Chrysalis’ chest like a lance.

Agonized shock frozen on her face, Chrysalis collapsed on the ground in a broken heap. A puppet with its strings cut.

Twilight stared at the fallen queen in horror. Her mind worked to catch up with what just happened.

Grounded. Hole in chest. Dying. Chrysalis is dying.

Chrysalis is about to die because of me…!

“Oh no...!”

Twilight scrambled next to her. “N—No. No no no, please no!”

She took Chrysalis’ head in her trembling hooves and carefully cradled it on her lap. One look at Chrysalis’ chest forced Twilight to avert her eyes, fighting back the bile that rose to her throat.

“Chrysalis, I didn’t mean—I was just——I’m so sorry, I…”

Tears streaming down her cheeks, she mentally pushed through her ramblings to reach the only important objective in her mind.

“Hospital! We need to go to a hospital!” She mustered her magic reserves, frantically navigating her destination to the closest hospital her panicked mind could conjure.

“Le…” Chrysalis strained to force the raspy words out of her throat. “Leave…!”

“No!” Twilight cried. “I’m not going to abandon you! Don’t die on me!”

Chrysalis’ jaw slackened. Glassy, emerald eyes gawked at her.

“Wh...why…?”

It was all she could managed before her eyes fluttered closed. The question Chrysalis attempted to ask echoed in Twilight’s mind.

Why did I kill her?

“Chrysalis…?” Twilight called out in a small, frightened whisper. No response. “Chrysalis?!” She tried to shake Chrysalis into consciousness. Again, no response. Hot tears fell unbidden.

“CHRYSALIS!”

In a purple flash, the two disappeared.

Author's Note

What's up, my fellow paladins?

Another day, another contest I aim to slam dunk as hard as I can. This story is the kind that didn't take me very long to come up with or even write. The hard part, as with many things, comes from the execution of it all, which turned out a little more complex than I expected. Thankfully, as writing a story featuring Chrysalis and Twilight together isn't something new to me, I can use this familiar ground to come up with something that hits a little closer to home.

I look forward to dazzling you with awesomeness and see if I can melt your hearts. :pinkiehappy:

Feel free to throw your thoughts/criticism at me. What are your predictions? How do you think this will end? Are you a fan of Bon Jovi? I wanna hear it all.

Until next time, stay classy my paladins.

And you're to blame

When Celestia assigned Bright Lance and Star Cannon to keep watch over Chrysalis at Canterlot Hospital’s intensive care ward, she warned that their patience and willpower would be tested. The hoof-picked elite guards had experienced dangers and challenges that would’ve broken most stallions. Dragons? A Basilisk? Discord’s ‘Monster of the week’? They’ve been through it all, and were more than confident they could handle a crippled Changeling queen whose magic has been sealed.

They learned too late that Celestia’s warning wasn’t referring to Chrysalis.

With impassioned gazes, they observed Twilight pace back and forth before Chrysalis’ room in metronome. The stuffed saddlebag bounced against Twilight’s hip with each turn, eyes glued to the floor. Every once in awhile, Twilight’s mood would brighten with an idea and she would open her mouth to request entry, only to stop and resume pacing and pondering. Their jaws were set hard, threatening to break their professional lack of expression as their eyes followed Twilight’s movements.

“But what if she says no?”

Three steps, about face.

“We can’t put this off. But if she refuses, I can’t imagine things would end well.”

Another three steps, about face.

“Or maybe she’ll take the other option, but what if nothing changes?”

Bright exchanged a look with Star. They counted off the top of their heads.

Three. Two. One.

“Argh, what a mess!” Twilight wailed for the sixth time, smoothing down her mane in aggravation.

The guards released a silent sigh while Twilight wasn’t looking. There was no telling how long this could go on before Twilight either entered the room or chose to come another day.

“Tell me about it—urk!” Bright froze up. Twilight and Star’s heads snapped to the horrified guard. Any hope of salvaging the slip of the tongue disappeared when Twilight rushed up to him.

“I know, right?” Twilight asked with sudden and little-too-large smile. “I mean, it’s good news, but also bad news, in a way. I should tell her, but I don’t know if I should wait a bit to figure things out a bit more. I’m not even sure how I should break the news. Thorax and Starlight helped me convince everyone including the doctors that the idea was sound, but everything comes down to what Chrysalis decides to do. Not to mention…”

Star said nothing as Twilight rambled on, thankful the shaft of the spear he held was able to resist his tightening grip. The glare he shot Bright, however, spoke volumes. You fool! You’ve doomed us all!

Bright gulped, mentally banging his head against a wall as he tried his best to make sense of the Princess’ ravings. He was able to catch pieces about ‘special news’, ‘Chrysalis’ rough temperament’ and somehow looped to ‘Spike and Starlight’s uneasiness’.

“So what do you think, Sergeant Lance?” Twilight asked, hungry for air from recounting her thoughts in a single breath.

Bright considered his words carefully. The wrong word would either insult the Princess relying on him for words of assurance, or lock both of them into a long-winded conversation that would break their spirits. Once the answer reached his tongue, he swallowed hard and took the plunge.

“I think you should trust your instincts, Princess.”

Twilight blinked, lost in thought. After a moment, she grinned widely. “You know what? You’re right. No point in stressing myself out if I don’t even know how she’ll take it. Just have to wing it and see what happens. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right?”

“Erm, that’s right.”

“Thank you, Sergeant. Alright, let me through.”

Relief flooded the guards as they happily parted from the door and opened it for Twilight. With a nod to both guards, she entered the white room.

Just before the door closed, Twilight could’ve sworn she heard a thump of wood on metal and a yelp from Bright.

As with every visit, Twilight resisted the urge to wince with guilt at seeing Chrysalis with thick bandages wrapped around her chest and an IV drip stuck in her foreleg. The gold ring fastened at the base of her horn shimmered midnight blue magic inside carved letters that spelled Magus Quietus, or ‘quiet mage’ in old equestrian. Faint gold outlines of Celestia’s shield magic shimmered on the wall-to-wall picture window across the room with a gorgeous view of Canterlot castle.

The view would have helped to suppress Twilight’s nerves, had Chrysalis’ nigh-permanent scowl not been directed at her.

Not that I can blame her. The world seems to see her as more of an inmate than a patient at this point.

“What do you want, Pest?”

“Good morning to you too, Chrysalis,” Twilight rolled her eyes. “Sorry I’m late. There was more medical paperwork I had to fill out than I expected. Doesn’t help that I somehow have a bigger workload to prepare for my students after spring break started. Speaking of medical, I do have some, uh, interesting news to share.”

Chrysalis’ ears perked. “What news?”

“Your recovery is going well, but the doctors have gotten a little… well, paranoid. Even with Thor—”

Twilight caught herself and coughed in her hoof. Chrysalis’ raised an eyebrow.

“...ough analysis of the situation, they want to have you moved. Had I not intervened, you would’ve been moved to a prison,” Twilight finished. One word of Thorax or Starlight’s involvement and Chrysalis would more than likely end the conversation immediately. There was little point in stirring up that Bugbear nest before she dropped the big news.

“The only surprise so far is that hasn’t happened sooner,” Chrysalis said, miffed. “I’m still waiting for this ‘interesting news’ you speak of. Get on with it so I can sleep.” The glimmer of interest in Chrysalis’ eyes betrayed her unimpressed glower.

Twilight continued, averting her eyes while pawing at the tiled ground. “R-right. So, after some talking, and a little bit of arguing from my friends, I...err… may or may not have convinced everyone to let you stay at my castle?”

She winced on instinct, expecting harsh words of objection from the queen.

“I…”

Chrysalis stopped, searching her mind for the right words. Her brow knitted together in confusion. “I don’t understand.”

Though Chrysalis’ response could have gone worse, Twilight did not expect bewilderment. “Huh?”

After a moment of further pondering, Chrysalis threw Twilight a curious look. “I’d always been meaning to ask, but why would you do all of this for me? What do you...”

Chrysalis trailed off, then suddenly glared. “Forget it. I refuse to be a bandage for your guilty conscience.”

Twilight recoiled, a hurt look on her face. “Wha—no! That’s not why I did it!” Chrysalis’ hardened gaze did not relent, scrutinizing her very soul. “I just… okay, guilt played a small part in—oh, come on!”

Chrysalis tossed in her head to face the window, wearing a deep frown.

Twilight sighed. How can she still distrust me so much after everything I’ve done for her? If it wasn’t for me, she would’ve been locked up in Tartarus three months ago!

Stop it. I can’t think like that. I’m the reason she’s in this hospital, after all. Chrysalis needs time to heal and learn to trust. I think I just need to lay it all on the table and meet her halfway. I have to show her that she can trust me.

“Guilt was not the only reason, Chrysalis. Yes, I still feel awful for what I did. Defense or not, I never wanted any of this to happen. As to my reason for taking you to my castle, it goes back to the promise I made before… y’know. I swore I would never abandon you. If I let you go to prison or Celestia-knows-where, I feel like I wouldn’t be owning up to the promise I made.”

“So as long as it’s your preferred prison everything is fine. This is the so called friendship you’ve preached about?” Chrysalis spat.

“Don’t put words in my mouth!” Twilight snapped. She paused to regain her composure. “Look, I never said you had to stay with me. Friendship is not about taking away choice for what you believe is the right choice. It’s about giving said choices and compromising. So if you have a place in mind you prefer to go—anywhere at all—I promise to take you there. And… if you don’t want me around, wherever you go, then that’s okay too. I want to help you, but I won’t force it. That is my reason, as well as my promise, to you.”

Twilight waited. A minute nearly passed when Chrysalis finally spoke.

“You said you convinced your friends, but how do I know I won’t wake up being suffocated by a pillow?”

“That’s not going to happen. My friends would never go that far. They understand your, well, hesitation to speak with anyone besides me, so they will keep their distance until you are ready.”

“And once I recover? What then?”

“Then you can leave if you want. Though you are also welcomed to stay.”

“There’s no guarantee I won’t come after you or your friends again. Your naivety might get you killed one day.”

“Well, I’ve stayed alive this long. I must be doing something right. Though if you come after us again, I will stop you. I have to learn to trust you, just as you have to learn to trust me.”

A lengthy silence fell between them. Chrysalis sighed.

“I… will think about it.”

“Great! So, uh, I know you got a lot to think about, so I won’t take up too much time. Oh! But I did get you a new book.”

With her magic, Twilight grasped the thick burgundy book from her satchel and placed it next to the flower vase on the adjacent cabinet. “It’s the latest book in my favorite mystery series: Detective Cobalt and the Luna Bay slayer. You don’t need to read the past books to get the gist of the context, but I think you’ll like it.”

An awkward silence followed. Twilight’s gaze fell, hoof digging into the lines of the floor tile.

“Alrighty then. Guess I’ll just get back to that school of friendship. Paperwork doesn’t take care of itself!” Twilight’s voice wavered. After a beat, she turned to leave.

“Wait.”

Twilight froze, hoof on door handle. Her head whipped towards Chrysalis, who was still facing away. “What?”

“It’s… no, it’s nothing. Go ahead.”

“It certainly doesn’t sound like nothing. What is it?” Twilight asked. After a long pause, she frowned. “I know better than to twist your leg, but if you got something to say, then please say it.”

Chrysalis grumbled. “It… still doesn’t make sense why you are doing this, if not only to soothe your own ego. There’s nothing to gain from aiding my recovery.”

The inquiry caught Twilight off guard, though she prepared herself for the chance to satisfy Chrysalis’ curiosity. “Hmmm, I think I see where you’re coming from, but this isn’t about some conquest or trying to pat myself on the back.”

Twilight grabbed the nearby swivel chair and took residence next to Chrysalis. “I get what you’re thinking; you’ve repeatedly tried to foalnap or kill us. There’s no possible reason why the very ponies you couldn’t care less for wants to help you, right? To be perfectly honest, I don’t like you. If I was a different kind of pony, you would’ve been left rotting at the bottom of that catacomb three months ago.”

Chrysalis turned her head to Twilight, unable to mask the surprise on her face.

“You’re not alone in how you think, Chrysalis. A good number of ponies do not want you around. For awhile, my friends were worried you had some weird subtle mind control on me. Even now, I know there is a part of me that just wants you to disappear and stay out of our lives for good. But that’s not how I do things. It’s never been about profit, politics, or tactical advantage.”

“Then why?”

“Before I answer that, tell me, has anyone given you a chance to be happy? I’m not talking about things like power struggle or coercion out of fear. I’m talking about someone doing something legitimately nice for you out of love or kindness. Discounting usage of disguises, of course.”

Chrysalis turned her gaze to the ceiling lost in thought, searching for an answer. After some time she answered. “No. Not that I can remember.”

“My answer will probably not make sense to you then, but maybe someday it will sink in for you.” Twilight smiled to herself. “Deep down, I believe everyone deserves a chance to turn their life around and find happiness. I truly want to give you that chance, Chrysalis. Just as the chance to experience joy among friends was given to me, I want to pay that kindness forward. Does that make sense to you, Chrysalis?”

Chrysalis’ eyes fluttered close. “No. I doubt I’ll ever understand.”

“Well if you stick with me, I’ll do my best to try.”

“Is that a fact?”

“Yes it is.”

“Hmmm,” Chrysalis gave a lengthy pause. “I suppose I’ll have plenty of time to understand your reasoning if I stayed at your castle, won’t I?”

“You would have all the time in the world. Don’t forget, you can go anywhere you want.” A smile crept into Twilight’s muzzle. “Even prison.”

Chrysalis coughed, though Twilight noted it could easily be mistaken for a stifled laugh. “Goodness, aren’t you a demanding princess? How could I possibly handle so many decisions?”

Twilight giggled at the unexpected sarcasm. “You’re a big girl. I’m sure you can handle it.”

“Hmmm, it cannot be helped then,” said Chrysalis. “I can only pray the beds at your palace are better than this terrible excuse for a mattress.”

“You mean…!” Twilight’s eyes brightened, followed by her smile. “Don’t worry, you’ll have the best bed in Ponyville. I’ll let them know to start getting you ready to move right away. Just relax in the meantime.” Twilight bounded out of the chair, brimming with excitement, and made for the door.

“Hey.”

Twilight’s hoof stopped just before knocking on the door to signal the guards. She glanced over her shoulder at Chrysalis. Surprise caught her when she noticed the familiar void in her gaze. Whatever ran through Chrysalis’ mind made her hesitant.

“I…” The softness that crept into Chrysalis’ voice before she cleared her throat threw Twilight off guard. Then, after a beat, dispassionate eyes returned to Chrysalis’ features. “I demand a large dinner be made for my arrival. Only the finest cuisine in Equestria.”

Twilight sensed a hint of forced tension in Chrysalis’ tone. She shrugged, offering a mischievous smile.

“If you stay on good behavior, I’ll consider it.”

“Hmph,” Chrysalis huffed, crossing her forehooves.

“Drama queen,” Twilight smirked as she knocked on the door to signal her exit.

Twilight caught the ghost of a smile on Chrysalis’ muzzle just before the door closed behind her.

I play my part

“Thanks again for having me over for lunch, everyone,” Thorax spoke between bites of his hay sandwich.

Twilight beamed at him from across the round kitchen table, as did Spike. “The pleasure is ours. I know it can’t be easy with how much responsibility you have on your shoulders.”

“Yeah. Running a kingdom is definitely a lot of work. I’m just glad I can do whatever I can to help.”

“Speaking of help,” Starlight interjected as she wondered in with a mug of coffee in her magical grip. “Did you have any luck with Chrysalis today?”

Thorax’s shoulders sagged as he sighed. “Well, she didn’t attempt to throw something or bite me this time, but she still won’t talk to me.”

Starlight took a seat next to Thorax and patted him on the back. “I’m with you there, Thorax. I swear, everytime I try to talk to her she’s trying to set me on fire with her eyes. Thought she would’ve tried to do that once Twilight took the magic limiter off, but thankfully, I still have my fur intact.”

Spike thumbed his chin as he sported a thoughtful look at Twilight. “Y’know, I always found it weird that Twilight is the only one she’s remotely nice to, let alone talks to. I hadn’t even done anything to her and she looks at me like dirt.”

“She still has so much hatred inside of her, Spike.” Twilight sighed heavily. “I’m trying what I can to help and understand her more. Sadly, we’re dealing with someone with centuries of negativity and anger embedded in their psyche. The fact I can have a casual conversation with her once in awhile is a miracle.”

“I’ve known Chrysalis since I was a hatchling. Not once have I seen her hold a ‘casual’ conversation outside a disguise or facade,” said Thorax. “She must like you a lot.”

Twilight nearly dropped her hay sandwich. “Huh? You really think so?”

Starlight nodded. “Yeah, I can see that. Sure, her heart might be a ball of hatred, but if someone like Twilight takes care of you, it’s hard to not feel something after six months.”

“I don’t know what impresses me more,” Spike started, “the fact Chrysalis can actually be nice to someone, or that Twilight hasn’t gotten sick of her yet. I don’t know how you do it, Twilight.”

“It’s not easy, and on more than one occasion I’ve gotten sick of her stubborn attitude. But I…” Twilight trailed off as it dawned on her. Dealing with such a miserable and angry guest for so long would’ve normally driven her crazy. Yet as of recent being in Chrysalis’ presence gotten easier. More than that, she found herself looking forward to seeing Chrysalis.

Why is that? It can’t be just because I want to help or that she’s nicer to me than anyone else. There’s something else there, but what?

The answer hung just out of reach. Realizing she stopped in the middle of her sentence to ponder, she placed the thought aside and shifted focus back to her now curious and concerned friends. “Sorry. Just realized that I don’t have a good reason for how I can handle Chrysalis. Guess I got used to her, eventually.”

“Got used to her? Having bricks thrown at my face would be easier to get used to,” Spike quipped. “Seriously, how could anyone remotely like her?”

“Spike! That’s not nice!” Starlight admonished, then hesitantly added, “You’re not wrong, though.”

The banter between Spike and Starlight was lost on Twilight, caught up on Spike’s statement. Chrysalis was by no means a pleasant personality to be around. Demanding, stubborn, aggressive, traits that belonged to a changeling who couldn’t bring herself to trust or care about anyone. Yet, somehow, Twilight enjoyed being around her.

Then again, I’m the only one Chrysalis respects. Well, relatively speaking. There must be a reason for it. Something we’re all missing beneath all that anger.

“Hey, I know Chrysalis is a little difficult to deal with…”

Three pairs of eyes threw unconvinced looks at Twilight.

“Fine. Very difficult to work with,” Twilight admitted with a groan, “but I can tell there’s something special deep down. I just have to keep digging until things come around.”

“You’re gonna need a big shovel to deal with that mountain of nasty,” Spike quipped.

“Seriously, Spike, where did you get such a mouth?” Twilight admonished.

“Nowhere,” Spike, and oddly Starlight, answered quickly.

I swear there is enough sass between them to put Dash and Applejack drunk on cider to shame. Guess I can’t blame them for being bothered by our ‘honored’ guest.

“Well Chrysalis is probably getting hungry, so I’ll see what she wants for lunch. I’ll be back.”

“Say hi to the ice queen for me!” Spike joked. Starlight giggled.

“Oh. Uh, same for me!” Thorax joined.

“Right~” Twilight drawled, then moved out of the kitchen towards the hallway.

Twilight was at the edge of earshot when she heard Thorax’s voice. “So… what’s an ice queen?”

This is going to be one of those days, isn’t it?

Chrysalis’ room resided in the upper floors. While it provided a grand view of Ponyville from the balcony, it also kept her at a safe distance as a precaution, mainly for Starlight’s comfort. Spike’s question popped into Twilight’s mind as she made her ascent to the upper floors: How could anyone like Chrysalis?

There had to be a good changeling somewhere in there. Twilight didn’t become a Princess by giving up on others, and as long as Chrysalis was willing to meet her halfway, she would do the same. However, in the back of her mind, she wondered why Chrysalis’ aggressive demeanor hasn’t been as detrimental to her sanity as it should’ve been.

Twilight had reached the top of the stairway when the sound of shattered glass and a painful screech reached her ears. Without a second thought, she teleported down the hall into Chrysalis’ room.

“Chrysalis! Wha—” Twilight gasped, heart ready to jump out her chest.

Shards of broken glass from a ceramic vase glistened in the summer sun. Collapsed over the knocked down wood dresser was the hissing and sweaty form of Chrysalis.

Twilight was instantly at her side. She moved to pick her up off the floor when Chrysalis pushed her away.

“Stay back, Sparkle!” Chrysalis snapped, eyes focused straight ahead.

Twilight balked, staring as if Chrysalis grew another head. “You’re crazy if you think I’m going to just stand here and do nothing!”

“I’m fine!” Chrysalis seethed. She gritted her teeth. Each movement pulled a hiss of agony out of her.

“My flank, you’re fine! You’re going back to bed.”

“Not this time. I won’t let you stop me!”

“If you agitate your spine, it won’t heal properly! I refuse to let you kill yourself over whatever you’re trying to do!”

“Don’t take this away from me, Sparkle!”

Chrysalis’ icy glare clashed against Twilight’s fiery gaze. The only thing stopping Twilight from using her magic to keep Chrysalis in bed was the risk of injury and tears of frustration that threatened to spill from Chrysalis.

Twilight was the first to break the tense silence, sadness etched in her voice.

“Is your pride worth that much to you?” Twilight asked. “Is that all you care about?”

Chrysalis’ jaw moved to speak, then closed as she averted her intense gaze towards the mirror dresser on the opposite side of the room. On it was a series of medical supplies and towels. Among those items was a pitcher filled with water next to a glass cup. She closed her eyes and exhaled through her nose.

“For centuries, nothing was out of my reach,” Chrysalis began. “My subjects heeded every order. My magic was rivaled only by Celestia herself. I was feared by all who knew of my existence. Power and pride was my life.”

She chuckled darkly to herself, shaking her head.

“Now I’m supposed to accept that I can’t even get a glass of water without your help or using magic? You ask for the impossible, Sparkle.”

“If you’re asking me to do nothing while you hurt yourself, you’re the one asking for the impossible.”

A tiny grin fought its way through Chrysalis’ pained expression. “Looks like we’re at an impasse.”

How could she possibly be so stubborn? Her spine had just healed up enough so she wasn’t completely bed-ridden. If I force her to move, she’ll fight it and wind up hurting herself more. Ugh, why is she making this so difficult?

Chrysalis opened her eyes, focused on the pitcher. Her limbs slid carefully to push herself up, minding the shards of broken glass. With a pained growl Chrysalis tried to push herself up. Her limbs trembled with effort, an occasional hiss escaping through her gritted teeth.

At the back of her mind, Twilight knew this was foolish and wanted nothing more than to stop Chrysalis from killing herself out of pure stubbornness. This was the part Chrysalis that drove her crazy the most. She’s the only creature in existence Twilight could think of that was so hard-headed and tenacious they would risk fracturing their damaged spine and back muscles for a glass of water.

It was reckless, dangerous, and one of the most brilliant displays of inner strength Twilight had ever witnessed.

How much pain is Chrysalis going through right now? What is going through her mind that pushes her so hard? She knows she can use her magic to get that water. There’s no need to go through all of this pain, yet she does it proudly, all to prove a point to herself and no one else. Even Dash has her limits, and she’s one of the most reckless ponies I know.

Chrysalis has so much willpower and determination, even at her lowest low. She is something else.

Twilight wiped the sweat off her brow, sparsely wondering when the room got so warm.

I can’t just sit here and do nothing, but there’s no way she won’t fight me on helping her. This would probably go a lot smoother if she could at least compromise a little so… wait a minute. That’s it!

Twilight placed a firm grip on her shoulder. Chrysalis threw an accusatory look.

“Remember what I said about friendship means compromising? Well, here’s a practical application of that.” Twilight channeled magic into her horn.

“What are you—Oh!” Chrysalis gasped as magic wrapped around her limbs and barrel. She braced herself to be move, but nothing happened.

“I know your pride means a lot to you. As your friend, I should respect how important it is to you, even if I don’t agree with it completely. I want to take that step and meet you halfway by letting you go for it. And by ‘halfway’, I mean using measures to make sure you don’t fall and injure yourself again.”

Twilight extended her hoof and offered a gentle, almost shy smile. “So… can you meet me halfway, Chrysalis?”

Chrysalis looked up at Twilight, an expressionless mask on her face. Her gaze slowly trailed down to the offered hoof. Twilight could never figure out what was going through her mind when she completely masked her expression.

She briefly recalled the last time she entered her expressionless, yet intense, state. It was also the first time Chrysalis talked to her since their last battle.

Just when Twilight considered pulling her hoof back, Chrysalis grasped it.

Tension rolled off Twilight in waves as she held Chrysalis’ hoof. A tingling heat rushed through the hoof and filled her body. This sensation was compounded by Chrysalis’ smile.

“You really are a pest, Twilight.”

Twilight's heart skipped a beat.

Did… did I just get through to her?

The elation that went through Twilight made her heart soar. A victorious grin exploded on her face.

“Persistence is one of my better strengths, Chrysalis.”

“Duly noted. Now if you don’t mind, I have a cup of water to grab. You better not go back on your word.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.”

“Alright.” Chrysalis took a breath and prepared herself. “Let’s go.”

Like a lumbering titan, Chrysalis shifted and maneuvered onto her hooves, using Twilight’s hoof as support. Every jolt of pain that made Chrysalis gasp caused Twilight’s skin crawl and heart race with anticipation, just as it did for the last few months of watching Chrysalis tackle the crippling injuries every day. Once Chrysalis was stable, she released Twilight’s hoof.

“One step at a time. You can do this,” Twilight cheered.

“I know that, now be quiet and let me focus.” Chrysalis’ moved at a slow, deliberate pace. The pain was evident in Chrysalis, instilling Twilight with a mix of empathy and pride to see her move across the chamber.

A few missteps nearly threw Chrysalis on the floor again, only to be saved by Twilight’s magical grip. Once she was stabilized again Twilight relented, careful to only give small pushes of support when it was clear Chrysalis’ balance was too far off. Pure determination was etched into Chrysalis’ face and movements.

After a few more missteps, and several growls from Chrysalis when Twilight misjudged how much extra help she instinctively provided, she reached her destination. She collapsed against it and took a deep, shuddering breath. Her hoof moved to stop Twilight just as she took a step towards her to help. Assured Twilight would remain where she was, she fixed herself a glass of water.

Four glasses later, Chrysalis hobbled her way back to bed and collapsed at the side of it, covered in sweat. There was no objection to Twilight’s approach this time.

Using magic, Twilight carefully lifted Chrysalis and placed her properly on the bed. Twilight shook her head. “I never thought it would be so inspiring to watch someone go after a glass of water.”

“Hmph. I wouldn’t be fit to be a queen if I couldn't do something as simple as that.”

Twilight couldn’t help but smile. “I still don’t approve of you risking your injuries over a glass of water, but I guess I’ll let it slide this time. Here, let me change up your sheets.”

Twilight sparked her horn and surgically extracted the pillow and bed sheets, keeping Chrysalis hovered comfortably as she tossed the old ones on the floor and replaced them with the newer ones left at the corner of the room. While levitated, Twilight took the opportunity to grab the towel from the stand near the bed to soak up the sweat from Chrysalis. She was surprised to hear no objection from Chrysalis this time. Too exhausted to do so, she guessed.

All cleaned up, Twilight floated Chrysalis back onto the bed and pulled the bed sheets chest high. Chrysalis eyes fluttered closed as she sighed peacefully.

“Thank you.”

Twilight’s heart leapt. In the six months Twilight had taken care of Chrysalis, not once did she ever thank her for the effort. She flushed crimson, a warmth flooding her system that she couldn’t identify.

“Y-you're welcome, Chrysalis.”

Twilight set about cleaning up the spilled mess and dirty laundry. Joy fluttered in Twilight’s chest as she eagerly cleaned up the room, having made so much headway in Chrysalis’ development.

I can hardly believe that I’m finally getting through to her. I guess all she needed was the right push at the right time, with a little compromising of course.

As she cleaned, a certain question popped in her mind again.

Why would I like Chrysalis?

Twilight stopped mid-cleaning and turned to Chrysalis.

“Hey, Chrysalis?”

“Hm?

“Why am I the only pony you’re nice to?”

Chrysalis’ eyebrow quirked. “Why does it matter to you?”

“It’s something that I hadn’t thought too hard on until recently. I’d figured I would be the pony you hated most after what I did.”

Chrysalis hesitated, staring up at the ceiling with a thoughtful look on her face. “Interesting. I suppose that does seem rather contradictory.”

“So why?”

Chrysalis chuckled softly as she curled up in the blanket to get more comfortable. Her back faced Twilight.

“I suppose neither of us can help but enjoy a good mystery.”

Twilight tilted her head. Enjoy a good mystery? But what does that have to do with me? I’m not mysterious at all, yet she clearly wants me to find the link. Does she mean like the Detective Cobalt books?

“I can feel you thinking from here, Twilight,” Chrysalis sighed dramatically. “You truly are hopeless.”

Twilight grumbled. “Do you really have to be such a jerk about it?”

“It can’t be helped. You make it too easy.”

“Hey!”

Chrysalis laughed. Twilight prepared to admonish her for teasing her when it clicked. Chrysalis was teasing her. Laughing without a hint of mockery or condescending tone. Perhaps, she began to realize, this was just a small part of Chrysalis buried underneath the loneliness and anger. A part of her only Twilight got to see.

Laughter bubbled in her chest until she had no choice but to join Chrysalis. Tension and doubt evaporated, leaving behind a sense of accomplishment that was truly earned. More than that was the warmth that coursed through her at seeing this side of Chrysalis. A side, Twilight concluded, she liked.

Sorry, Spike. It looks like Chrysalis has a point, Twilight thought with a warm smile. She smoothed back her mane, cheeks flushed. I can’t help but enjoy a good mystery.

And you play your game

“...and once Gallus opened his mouth, it all went downhill from there.”

“And you were left to clean after their mess again? Hmph. If I ran that school, they would all get ten lashes for their impudence.”

“Good grief, Chrysalis! They’re only children! You can’t just—wait a second, you’re messing with me again, aren’t you?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Isn’t the whipping of foals trending these days?”

“Oh my gosh, you are just the worst!”

“The word you’re looking for is 'hilarious'.”

“Of course you would think that,” Twilight giggled as she and Chrysalis moved together with careful, synchronized steps. Their barrels pressed against each other to support Chrysalis’ balance during another of their daily physical therapy walks. Her smaller frame struggled to keep up with Chrysalis’ tall and sleek body, which made her have to wrap a wing around Chrysalis’ barrel to make up for the size difference.

This closeness always brought a smile to Twilight’s face, a symbol for how far they’ve come as friends.

Once they reached the final lap at Chrysalis’ bed, the stopped to sit at the edge of it and gather their breath.

“Phew! We did it!” Twilight wiped the sweat off her brow.

Chrysalis threw her a bemused glance. “Of course we did. Although you seem more exhausted than I am.”

“W-w-what, me? Psh, nah! I’m totally fine!” Twilight waved off, though her flustered voice was nigh impossible to conceal. Clearly pressing against Chrysalis’ smooth, warm carapace for almost half an hour straight had nothing to do with it.

There was some truth to Chrysalis’ observation, Twilight noted. Outside being sweaty, Chrysalis suffered minimal pain. Between short on breath and flustered, Twilight stood out as the more stressed of the two.

Chrysalis drew herself closer, causing Twilight to lean back in a poor attempt to subtly dodge the scrutinizing gaze. Matters only grew worse when Chrysalis pressed the back of her forehoof gently against Twilight’s forehead, temple and neck. The corner of Chrysalis’ mouth would occasionally twitch upward as if forcing down a smirk. “Hmmm, your face is boiling hot, but it’s clearly not a fever. Is there some other reason your face is impersonating a tomato?”

“Y-yeah. I’m just, uh, really proud of all the progress you’re making! It couldn’t possibly be any other reason!” Twilight laughed nervously. I swear I can never tell if she’s trying to mess with me or not.

Chrysalis’ stare lingered for a few more seconds, then shifted her sights to the bathroom.

“I want to take a shower.”

“Good idea. Nothing like a warm shower after a good workout.”

Chrysalis gave a thoughtful hum and sparked her horn. A thin, green veil of magic wrapped around her legs and barrel to assist her movements. She slipped onto the floor and shuffled her hooves until she found her center gravity.

Seeing Chrysalis was about to hit the shower, Twilight also hopped off the bed. “Well, Spike brought some pumpkins spice coffee ingredients, since they’re in season now, so I’ll just leave you to it while I—”

“Where do you think you’re going?”

The husky tone caused Twilight to nearly trip into a dead stop. “Huh?”

Chrysalis returned her gaze upon Twilight. This time, there was a sense of intensity behind her gaze that rooted Twilight. “You are going to help me.”

...To the bathroom, right? Help her get adjusted and maybe even stick around to chat. Surely she didn’t mean—

“I can hear you thinking again, Twilight. You know exactly what I mean.”

If Twilight’s face heated up any further, she was sure she would’ve suffered a heat stroke. “Wha—huh? B-b-but you can take care of yourself just fine. Surely you don’t need my help, of all ponies, to wash you.”

Chrysalis nodded her head to the bathroom and walked toward it. Twilight hesitated, distracted by what she swore was a sultry grin.

I … I’m sure I’m just imagining things. I mean, this is Chrysalis we’re talking about. I’m sure those sexy glances and all that hip wiggling doesn’t mean anything. Nope. Nothing at all.

That train of thought did little to help her accelerated heart rate.

By time time her mind caught up, her body picked up the pace and she was already in the bathroom with her. Chrysalis prepped the shower stall, testing the temperature of the water every few seconds. Steam began to fill the bathroom. Anticipation and tension ran through Twilight like a live wire, thoughts running a mile a minute.

Maybe she’s just messing with me again or trying to get in my head. It’s not like she actually has a thing for me or something. Not… not that I have a thing for her either. We’re just two friends about to have a shower. Together.

Totally platonic.

Satisfied with the steamy shower, Chrysalis slipped her long legs into the running water. A small growl left her throat as she closed her eyes and allowed the water to run over her. Her carapace glistened against the bathroom light.

Between the gorgeous green mane matted against her sleek neck and the depths of Chrysalis’ emerald gaze as she shot Twilight a look that nearly made her heart leapt out her chest, Twilight wasn’t sure how much longer she could handle the pressure.

I’m just overthinking things. As long as I keep a cool head about it, this won’t get weird.

“Join me,” Chrysalis patted the space behind her in the tub. “I won’t bite… but I’m open for requests.”

Yep. This just got weird.

Any question or concern Twilight had got lost in her voice, little more than a squeak slipping out her throat.

“Pick up your jaw and get in already. I don’t have all day,” Chrysalis ushered with an edge of impatience.

With a slow nod, Twilight shakily stepped into the tub behind Chrysalis. She could barely feel the heat from the water; the fire in her cheeks could melt an iceberg.

“Would you kindly take care of my mane and back?”

“S-sure.” Twilight moved robotically to grab the washcloth and soap, not trusting her mind to use magic.

While Chrysalis had her moments of teasing, never had she been this forward with Twilight. Her mind scrambled for answers to uncover the root of this… she had no idea what to call it. Was Chrysalis trying to get a reaction out of her? Teasing?

...Flirting?

That’s ridiculous! Twilight tried to shake the thought out of her head. This is Chrysalis! She cocooned my mentor, ruined my brother and Cadance’s wedding…

Twilight dug her hooves into Chrysalis’ thick mane. Thicker than pony hair with a gelatinous-like smoothness that pulled at her attention. Her movements slowed, reveling in the touch.

She came back and tried to take over Equestria again and nearly assassinated Thorax with her last scheme...

Her scrubbing had moved down to Chrysalis’ back. Smooth, rubbery areas of the chitin were comfortable to the touch. The idea of cleaning faded from Twilight’s mind, absorbed in the added softness water brought to Chrysalis’ carapace.

How… could I possibly fall for someone like that…?

A growl of pleasure ripped from Chrysalis’ throat, causing Twilight’s mind to go blank for a moment.

“You know, Twilight. Something has come to my attention as of late,” Chrysalis said after a moment. “My recovery has been quite immaculate.”

Twilight’s eyes narrowed with suspicion. She knew Chrysalis was definitely trying to bait her with such a clearly odd shift of topic. “I agree. You’ve been doing well.”

“Considering I’ve nearly lost my spine, such a recovery would normally take years to heal, even for someone as powerful as I.”

“Equestrian medical magic and science have come a long way. There’s very little we cannot do, as long as it’s not fatal, even though your physiology is certainly more complicated than that of a normal changeling.”

“Hmm, a fair point. Though at this pace, it would not be long until I am ready to leave.”

Twilight’s scrubbing slowed.

That’s right. This is a temporary arrangement. Once Chrysalis recovers, I promised she would be free to go wherever she wants. She already sounds like she’s ready to go.

Twilight winced at the proverbial stab in the chest. I mean, it’s no big deal, right? Not like we were actually bonding and beginning to understand one another. I’m sure she couldn’t care less about staying here. With me.

She blinked back the stinging sensation in her eyes. Her hooves stopped scrubbing.

“I’m sure you learned quite a bit about changeling physiology,” Chrysalis continued, seemingly oblivious to Twilight’s turmoil. “More importantly, how more powerful emotions can enhance our natural attributes. Interestingly, my recovery rate seems to have been bolstered after I moved in with you.”

Twilight’s heart thumped. Is she saying what I think she’s saying?

“Any idea why that might be the case, Twilight?”

“I-I…” Twilight grew surprised at how small her own voice had gotten. “I don’t know.”

“Is that a fact?” Her tone secretly accused Twilight of deceit.

“If you know something, spit it out already,” Twilight exasperated. She could feel Chrysalis’ grin without seeing her face.

“Tell me, Twilight,” Chrysalis’ authoritative tone returned with a vengeance, “are you familiar with the 'Nurse Night Flower Effect'?”

Twilight’s breath hitched.

“Well?” Chrysalis asked.

Twilight didn’t answer. Couldn’t bring herself to do so.

Chrysalis continued. “The 'Nurse Night Flower Effect' occurs when a caregiver or nurse develops romantic feelings for their patients. Of course, you already knew that, didn’t you?”

A lengthy pause, then a sigh.

“Those are dangerous emotions to have for me, Twilight. You may regret it later.”

“Why do you think that?”

“You may view me in a positive light, but the world will always see me as an enemy. There are some things you can’t change, Twilight.”

Chrysalis lowered her head and muttered to herself. “Some wounds that can never heal.”

“That doesn’t mean we can’t try. We don’t have to be enemies, Chrysalis.”

Twilight leaned her forehead against Chrysalis’ back.

“You… don’t have to leave, either.”

“Twilight…”

Twilight wrapped her hooves around Chrysalis’ waist. Her voice quivered, a feeble whisper.

“I know these past several months have been hard on you. Everyday I’ve watched you get stronger. Learn more. Open up little by little. I’ve treasured every step forward our bond has taken. But I just don’t know when everything changed, or why I feel the way I do. I just… don’t want this to stop. I don’t want you to go, Chrysalis.”

Her grip broke when Chrysalis turned around to face her. Twilight let her hooves drop.

“Am… I selfish for wanting you to stay with me?” Twilight whispered. She didn’t dare look up.

Chrysalis said nothing, instead tilting her chin upward so their eyes met. There was neither scowling, nor judging, or even concern. Long seconds ticked away with nothing more than an intense stare, as if peering deep into Twilight’s soul.

Twilight cracked under the pressure and looked away.

“I’m… I’m sorry. I should go.”

Twilight barely moved before she found herself pushed back and pinned against the wall. Startled, all she could do was gasp before Chrysalis seized her chin with a firm grip and forced their eyes to lock again.

“You’re such a pest.”

Chrysalis pulled Twilight’s muzzle into a kiss

You give love a bad name

“It boggles my mind how this ‘Detective Cobalt’ series has so many volumes,” Chrysalis used her magic to turn the pages of the book clutched in Twilight’s magic. The book was angled just right so the text and pictures were properly illuminated from the flames of the fireplace.

“You would think all his friends would know Cobalt’s identity by now. If I was his guardian, I would’ve figured him out ages ago.”

Chrysalis tightened the heavy maroon blanket they shared around their shoulders. “Yeah, right. You’d just be distracted since he’s cute.”

“No, I wouldn’t!”

Chrysalis glanced down at Twilight, one eyebrow raised.

“...Okay, maybe a little.”

The two shared a jovial laugh, snuggling closer to share the warmth of the fire, blanket, and each other. When the laughter finally died down, Twilight released a blissful sigh. “Thank you for helping to make this the best Hearth’s Warming Day ever, Chrysalis.”

“All I did was agree to attend the pink one’s insufferable party tonight. It’s nothing like the gifts your friends got you.”

“First of all, her name is Pinkie Pie. Second, it is a big deal to me. Stepping out of your comfort zone to take part in a celebration with my friends was one of the best gifts you could’ve given me. Besides, seeing the look on Pinkie’s face when you showed up for her party was a gift in itself. I think you made her year.”

“I’m just grateful I didn’t spend anymore time near her than I had to. I swear I’m a step closer to getting diabetic every second I’m near that pony. Her emotions are more saccharine than the white one’s—”

“—Rarity—”

“—Rarity’s novels that she loves to shove in my face,” Chrysalis finished.

“Don’t be like that. That was a very thoughtful gift from Rarity. Well, not my kind of taste, but I can appreciate the thought. That reminds me, there is one thing I would like to do before the night is over.”

“What would that…” Chrysalis trailed off, then grinned. “I was starting to wonder when you were going to give me your present.”

Twilight averted her eyes. “Present? What present?”

Chrysalis narrowed her eyes. “You can’t be serious.”

“Serious about what? I do have a great friendship speech about the importance of bonds and holiday spirit in mind.”

“You’re a terrible liar.”

“Whaaat? No, I’m totally telling the truth. I got a three hour seminar planned, just for you. I have a ton of activities prepared. Even homework!”

Chrysalis rolled her eyes, failing to contain her smirk. “You’re totally full of it. You can’t even keep a straight face!”

“My face is as straight as an arrow,” said Twilight, cheeks puffed in a pathetic attempt to look serious.

“Twilight,” Chrysalis shook her head sadly, “neither you, nor your face, are in the same dimension as ‘straight’. Now cut it out and give me the present already.”

“I told you, I don’t know what you’re—EEK! Okay, I’ll stop! I’ll stop!” Twilight screamed and laughed as Chrysalis attacked the crook of her neck with nibbles. “Just this one time I wanted to be the one who tricked you and made you feel silly.”

Chrysalis relented, wearing a wicked grin. “While I’m flattered you wish to get on my level, please leave it to the professionals. I could live without another oran—no, Applejack—rant about being a bad influence.”

“Well, as long as I’ve been around you, I had to have picked up some traits, for better or worse.” Twilight shrugged. “Anyway, yes, I wanted to give you your Hearth’s Warming present. Give me a second to grab it.”

Twilight channeled her magic, reaching outside the study room her and Chrysalis currently resided and into her own room. Once she found her target, she triggered the retrieval spell and summoned the object before them.

A velvet box dropped onto Twilight’s hooves. With a meek smile she presented it to Chrysalis. “Happy Hearth’s Warming, Chrysalis.”

Mystified, Chrysalis accepted the gift and held it in her hooves. Twilight waited on pins and needles for Chrysalis to open the box. Her forehoof brushed the exterior as if she was lost in thought.

“How… are you not disappointed or upset?”

“Huh? Why would I feel that way?”

Chrysalis clasped her hoof over the box. “You have such strong feelings for me, but you must have noticed that I can’t return them.”

“Oh, Chrysalis…”

Twilight leaned into her, resting her forehoof on top of Chrysalis’ over the box.

“It still bothers you, doesn’t it? That you haven’t evolved yet?”

Chrysalis’ expression spoke volumes.

“Chrysalis, listen to me. I knew what I was getting into since the start. I understand now that all those weeks ago you made those advances to test the waters. To see if you were capable. I understand how important it is to you to feel strong. Complete.”

Chrysalis grimaced and looked away. “But that’s only half the story, right? It’s difficult to imagine what convinced you to stay with someone who is incapable of returning love. Not unless your guilt has played a significant role.”

“N-No…”

Twilight hesitated for a moment. When her voice returned, she sounded more confident. “I regret what I did, yes, but I’ve made my peace with it. That doesn’t mean I don’t think about it sometimes, but I have something far more important to me to worry about than a past I can’t change. This is all about you. Because you can change.”

Twilight straightened herself up and cupped Chrysalis’ cheeks so their eyes met. The sight of hopelessness in Chrysalis’ gaze made her eyes water. “Yes, it would be nice to see you evolve into a beautiful new you, but I know this isn’t something that can be solved with a spell or has a quick fix. You need time and support, both of which I’m more than happy to give you. However much you need to find the answers you seek.”

Chrysalis’ eyes glistened.

“Chrysalis,” Twilight braced herself, then smiled sweetly, “no matter what, even if for some reason you never evolve, it doesn’t change that you’ve evolved on the inside. I believe in you, so don’t give up.”

A familiar look passed behind Chrysalis’ gaze. Though she smiled, Twilight could find no warmth in it.

“Thank you, Twilight.”

Chrysalis was gone the next morning.

Twilight scoured the castle high and low. Guest rooms. Basement. Kitchen. Neither Spike nor Starlight had seen her. Days of scavenging a Ponyville gave no clues to Chrysalis’ whereabouts. After a week of tireless searching, Twilight had all but given up on her coming back.

Twilight lumbered to her own room, head low and bags under her eyes. With a listless shuffle she navigated towards her mattress. Instead of liven her up, Pinkie’s “Twilight’s Holiday Heartbreak Rebound” party had eaten away the remaining dregs of energy she had left. All she wanted to do now was go to bed and make another futile attempt to push the heartache behind her.

Her hoof had touched the bed when the moonlight’s glare off the dresser mirror across the room caught her eye. She hesitated, lingering on the string of photos lined along the mirror’s edges. She frowned, knowing what she had to do. What she had put off until now. With a groan Twilight walked over to the dresser.

At the top center was the picture of herself, Spike and Starlight in front of the castle, bearing wide grins. Chrysalis took the rear since she was the tallest, hilariously stoic among the bright atmosphere. Twilight took that picture off the mirror and placed it next to the velvet box atop the dresser.

Next to it was a picture of just Twilight and Chrysalis on a hill. Twilight had rarely been happier. With a hoof wrapped around Twilight’s shoulder, Chrysalis bore a nervous grin. One of the few times she gave a legitimate effort to smile for the camera. Twilight repeated the action and placed that photo next to the other.

The pictures and present. Remnants of a happier time which kept her from moving on.

She knew they needed to be gone from her life. Locked up. Destroyed. Something had to be done. Her horn sparked with magic. To do what, she didn’t know yet.

“Did I do something wrong…?” Twilight sniffled, glaring down the offending items. “What did I miss? Why couldn’t she talk to me?”

Twilight reached out with her hoof and cracked opened the velvet case. A longing sigh escaped. Magic ceased in her horn.

Just one more time. If I can see her one last time and talk things out…

Twilight closed the case and looked up at the mirror.

Icy emerald eyes stared back at her from behind.

With a gasp, Twilight spun around, ready to greet her vanished lover. One look at Chrysalis' expression wiped away whatever joy she had.

“C-Chrysalis…?”

Chrysalis’ horn flared with power.

Before Twilight realized what was going on, her legs, wings, and horn were constricted in thick, sickly green glowing rings. She fell to her side, staring up at Chrysalis with wide eyes. There was no love to be found in her gaze.

“Chrysalis?! W-what are you doing?” Twilight attempted to channel her magic, but whatever Chrysalis did to her horn rendered her magic useless. She struggled against the bindings, but quickly realized that they were an obstacle far above her physical strength.

“I warned you how dangerous your feelings would be,” the void of warmth in Chrysalis’ voice sent chills of dread through Twilight. “Time and again I cautioned you on the folly of your naivety. Told you that you would regret it, but here we are.”

“W-why would you—”

Another green ring materialized around Twilight’s muzzle and tightened it shut. All she could muster was a glare.

“I’m not in the mood for friendship speeches this time,” Chrysalis leered. She pressed a forehoof on Twilight’s chest, harsh glare burning holes in Twilight’s forehead.

“I’m sure you’re just burning to understand, even if the evidence is in front of your face. Typical Twilight,” Chrysalis tsked. “Newsflash: I’m going to kill you.”

Twilight's eyes went wide. Her breathing quickened.

“I'd planned on killing you since the beginning. All I needed was a chance to get away with it. However, the very day you invited me into the castle, I instead saw an opportunity to replace you. Once I've done that, I can finally exact my revenge on Equestria, all from a pony who everyone loves and trusts. Of course I will start on Starlight and that filthy traitor Thorax. Their torment will be a beautiful symphony to my ears.”

Everything that we did together. An entire year spent getting to know her. Was all that… a lie? No, the Chrysalis I know has to still be in there somewhere. I refuse to believe she would lie about everything for this long!

“But that's not what you really want to know, is it Twilight? Those months spent under your care? All those romantic endeavors we shared?” She narrowed her eyes, no mercy or regret to be found in her features. “I was famished. Just happened to give my chef a generous tip. That's all.”

The blow struck Twilight harder than any weapon could. For a moment, all she could do was gape at the stranger standing above her.

This whole time… she’s just been playing me? But... but I trusted her. Loved her. And all this time she had planned to betray me? How… how could she?

Power surged into Twilight’s horn. She clenched her jaw. The aura around her forehead grew so bright Twilight was sure she could overcome Chrysalis’ spell—until her magic died out, disobeying her orders.

Bitter tears spilled down Twilight's cheeks. She would have screamed in frustration but held herself back, not willing to give Chrysalis the satisfaction.

Dispirited, Twilight sank back against the hard crystal ground.

She’s giving up everything, all we had, just for some petty revenge?

“So, how does it feel to take a shot through your chest, hm? Hurts, doesn't it?” She glowered. Each word was punctuated with bitter hatred. “Oh, you have no idea how long I kept that in my saddlebag. Well, I'm sure you have some idea.”

Chrysalis’ horn sparked, brimming with magic.

“Don't worry, I won't make the same mistake you did. I'll make it quick, just to show how much I love you, Twilight.”

Love? I should’ve known you could never learn to love. I should’ve never let you in my life! I…

No. I won’t hold onto hatred like Chrysalis did, even if she’s going to kill me. I’m better than that.

Twilight fought the urge to shut her eyes and look away.

For all the mistakes I’ve made, things I’ve missed that led to this, I won’t turn away. I refuse to reject what I’ve cherished.

Her body tensed on reflex, braced for impact.

I refuse to be someone like you!

The magic in Chrysalis’ horn turned a brilliant green, reaching critical mass.

Only to suddenly cease.

Twilight blinked, then realized Chrysalis’ attention was no longer on her.

Chrysalis levitated the velvet box into her hooves. “Almost forgot about this. I bet whatever this Hearth’s Warming gift is, you worked hard to make it. It would be a shame if I destroyed it, wouldn't it?”

Twilight's answer was a furious snort and growl. Are you serious?! How long are you going to drag this out, you sadist?!

Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Hate me all you want, but I let you have your way for a whole year. All I want is just a fraction of that time back. Is that so much to ask? Now let's see what pathetic trinket you got for me.” She cracked open the box.

Chrysalis’ smirk fell.

Platinum shimmered in Chrysalis’ transfixed stare. She picked up the chain in her magic and placed the box on the dresser. The heart-shaped locket dangled before her, emerald orbs beholding a matching stone cover. Absentmindedly she flipped open the locket.

Inside the locket was a photo taken some weeks prior. Chrysalis sat on a loveseat with Twilight leaning against her side, eyes closed and smile wide. Chrysalis had been caught lost in thought while staring down a glass of apple cider, smirking.

Chrysalis stared at the locket in awe, failing to recognize the stranger in the photo. Her expression gradually shifted from startled, to confusion, to utter contempt. Her heated gaze floated between Twilight and the locket, as if she couldn’t make up her mind who to murder first.

When the gaze finally stopped at Twilight, she readied herself for Chrysalis to attack or say something to drive another stake in her heart. Instead, she turned and moved toward the balcony window, horn flared with magic. Twilight barely managed to catch her mutterings.

“Looks like we’re at an impasse.”

The bindings on Twilight dissolved. Chrysalis’ horn was still active. Twilight knew what would happen next.

She scrambled onto her hooves and ignited her horn. A peculiar sight gave her pause when Chrysalis’ wings fluttered.

What are her wings doing? That’s not an attack Chrysalis could normally—

The realization struck her like a brick.

“Chrysalis, wait!”

Twilight whipped up a veil of magic to trap Chrysalis in a bubble. The barrier nearly enveloped Chrysalis when she vanished in a flash.

Trapped in the shield was the only part of Chrysalis she had left: the locket.

Twilight struggled to catch her breath, shaking with adrenaline. So much happened in that single moment she couldn’t process. Not right now anyway.

Still encased in magic, Twilight pulled the locket into her embrace. Tears flowed freely. Yet, for the first time in days, Twilight found the strength to smile.

Chrysalis’ wings had been glittering.

She made it.

Author's Note

What's up, my fellow paladins?

And thus we come to the end of a rather bittersweet story. Didn't see that one coming, did ya?

When I first thought of this concept, the lyrics "you give love a bad name" came to mind. One thing led to another, and this story came to life. A story of two characters falling in love is fun and all, but I wanted something deeper. Something that played with the "friendship redemption" idea and took a sharp left turn. Without friendship lasers or songs. That's a sharp right.

In the comments I noticed one of the bigger observations was the pacing, and...yeah, I would've liked to have expanded upon this story a bit more too. The decision was deliberate, but out of necessity due to the 15k word count limit (it's tougher than it sounds). This doubled as my attempt at writing more compacted stories (contrary to my track record, I have a really tough time keeping short stories and one-shots, well, short). The pacing was certainly a challenge, but I did what I could to make each transition between chapters as smooth as I could manage.

Also, I may or may not have cackled madly whenever someone mentioned how odd it was that Chrysalis started acting suspiciously nice a little too quickly.

Additionally, but very important, because this chapter is meant to be a twist, please use spoiler tags when discussing the ending. Spoiler talk responsibly.

With that said, how many of you suspected Chrysalis would turn? When was she genuine and when was she faking it? Did you feel the song lyrics fit each chapter, especially after knowing what happened? Looking forward to hearing all your thoughts/criticisms/anguish.

Until the next big adventure, stay classy my paladins.