A Place in Equestria II: The Revenge of Queen Chrysalis

Chapters

Chapter 1: A Royal Tea Visit to Ponyville & Crusading Playtime
Chapter 2: The Changelings Return/Kidnapped
Chapter 3: Meeting Queen Chrysalis/A Changeling at the Crystal Empire
Chapter 4: Spike Meets Thorax
Chapter 5: The Feast Begins/Introducing Thorax
Chapter 6: Journey to the Changeling Kingdom
Chapter 7: Sneaking Into The Hive, Part 1
Chapter 8: Sneaking Into The Hive, Part 2
Chapter 9: Facing Queen Chrysalis
Chapter 10: Hospitalization/Safe at Last

Chapter 1: A Royal Tea Visit to Ponyville & Crusading Playtime

On a beautiful morning in the cottage of Fluttershy, Thomas woke up in his mother’s big soft and comfy bed, and then got out of the blankets and suddenly got excited. “It’s today! Princess Celestia and Luna are coming to visit!” Thomas exclaimed happily, as he got dressed into a clean pair of clothes, which were his blue ringed shirt, black jeans, and sand green hooded jacket. He went downstairs to see if his mother was up. “Momma!” he exclaimed. “She turned around and saw her little colt full of glee, “Good morning, my precious little one. Would you like to give Mommy a hug?” Thomas nodded and then went over to her for a morning embrace. “What are you so happy about, sweetheart?” Fluttershy asked with a soft chuckle. “Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are coming over to Ponyville!” Thomas exclaimed. “And I really want to see them!”

Fluttershy then smiled warmly, and then softly stroked his back, “Calm down, sweetheart. I’m sure you’re excited to see them. So are me and your other aunts.” Thomas nodded and then she gave him his breakfast, and after he was done, they saw the clock saying 8:55. “Oh my! We’re supposed to head over right now!” Fluttershy exclaimed, as she leaned down and placed Thomas on her back, and then she flew over to Ponyville. When she landed, she saw two guard ponies standing there by the door of Sugarcube Corner, until they let them pass. “Thank you,” Fluttershy said.

When she and Thomas entered, they saw the two princesses having their tea, and then Twilight talking with those two. Fluttershy and Thomas went over to them and sat down. Thomas then saw Princess Celestia, and then walked over to her. “Princess Celestia!” he said, until he tried to look at where he was at. She looked at the other side, and saw him smiling, and then she smiled warmly at him and softly stroked his hair. “Hello, sweet and dearest little Thomas. Would you like me to hold you?” she sweetly asked.

Thomas nodded with a giggle, and then she lifted him up with her magic and placed him in her hugging hooves, and then she brought him closer towards her chest where her necklace was. “It’s been a while, dear,” she said. “Yeah. I missed you too, Princess Celestia,” Thomas said, as he softly stroked the fur on her neck. After a nice warm hug, Princess Celestia then lowered him onto her lap and then he curled towards her lower chest and belly, and then nuzzled with her soft and warm fur as he leaned his head on her chest and heard her heartbeat. “Aww, how cute!” Pinkie Pie said. “He’s trying to act so adorable with her!” Rarity said. “No. He just misses her,” Twilight said. “That’s true,” Applejack said. “Are you enjoying your time with Princess Celestia, sweetheart?” Fluttershy cooed. Thomas nodded and then continued to cuddle with Celestia’s soft chest fur.

“It’s an honor for you and your sister to join us, your majesty,” Mr. Cake said. “No, the honor is ours,” Princess Celestia said, as she continued to hug the small child in her embrace. “More tea?” Mrs. Cake said. “Yes, please,” Princess Celestia said. “Yes, thank you,” Princess Luna said. Mrs. Cake then poured them more tea into their cups. Then the two alicorns continued to drink their tea, and received more cakes. “Oh! Thomas! Hello there, dearie!” Mrs. Cake said. “Hi, Mrs. Cake!” Thomas said. “Would you like a cookie, sweetheart?” Mrs. Cake asked. “Yes, please,” Thomas said. Mrs. Cake then gave Thomas a frosted sugar cookie with sprinkles, and then he started eating it.

“So, how are things doing in Ponyville for you, Starlight?” Princess Celestia asked. “Oh, things are going pretty good,” Starlight replied. “Besides, ever since I’ve grown jealous of Twilight and tried to rewrite history just to get her back, I’ve learned that friendship is sometimes important. And after I met Trixie, she and I somehow have a lot in common. And I’m really glad to have a certain nephew of mine to thank for helping me heal my heartache.” Princess Celestia nodded, and later on, the Mane 7 and two princesses kept talking.

When he was done hanging out with Princess Celestia and Luna and after they went back to Canterlot, Thomas walked out of Sugarcube Corner, until he saw his big sisters, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. “Hey, girls,” Thomas said. “Hey, Thomas!” they replied in unison. “We were wondering if ya wanted to come to the park with us,” Apple Bloom said. “Can I have one second?” Thomas asked, then the three fillies nodded, and then he went over to his mother. “Momma, can I go to the park with my sisters?” Fluttershy looked at the Crusaders with adorable faces, and then she hugged him with a short nod, and then kissed him on the forehead, “Go ahead, sweetie. Just be back before it gets dark.” Thomas nodded and then hugged her one more time, “I know we say this all the time, but... I love you, Momma.”

“Mommy loves you too, sweetheart,” Fluttershy said, as she gave him one more kiss on the top of his head. Thomas then left and went off to the park with his big sisters. “Not it!” Thomas said, as he rode Apple Bloom’s back. “Not it!” Sweetie Belle said. “Not it!” Apple Bloom said. “Scootaloo’s it!” they shouted in unison, and then ran off and had fun. Fluttershy smiled warmly at her 6 year old son as she was proud of her little colt growing up so fast and making some friends in Equestria.

Meanwhile, at the park, after their game of tag, Sweetie Belle pushed Thomas on the swings, then the four sibling friends played ball together like last time, and then they played hide and seek. After a few minutes of fun, they laid on the ground and gazed at the clouds.

“I just love a nice day like this,” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah, me too,” Scootaloo said. “I’m telling you, I’ve never had that much fun like the last hundred times we have!”

“Shhhhhh... you’re gonna wake the little cutie,” Sweetie Belle whispered, as she let Thomas lay on top of her and listen to her little heartbeat. “Aww, look. He’s napping.” They smiled warmly at him. “Isn’t he cute when he sleeps like that?” Sweetie Belle asked. “He almost looks like a little baby,” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah, totally,” Scootaloo said. “Hey, that cloud looks like a pegasus!” Scootaloo said. “And that one looks like an elephant!” Apple Bloom said. “And there’s one that looks like a manticore,” Sweetie Belle said. “Hey! There are three that look like Twilight and her friends!” Apple Bloom said. “I see it, and Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo said. Thomas then woke up, “What’s with all the yelling?”

“Oh, sorry, cutie. Didn’t mean to wake you,” Sweetie Belle said. “It’s fine. I needed that anyway,” Thomas said, and then he turned around and gazed at the clouds with them. “Hey, that one looks like a dragon!” he said. “Yeah, it does!” Apple Bloom said. “And you know what’s missing?” Scootaloo asked. “What?” Thomas asked, then the girls got up and chased him, and then he slipped and the three fillies started tickling him, until he tickled them back.

Chapter 2: The Changelings Return/Kidnapped

After they left the park, the girls decided to walk their little brother home. While they were walking, they saw a little unicorn filly who had no cutie mark, and she had pale light grayish violet fur, a grayish indigo mane and tail with navy blue and moderate indigo streaks that looked like Twilight’s, and brilliant amber eyes. “Excuse me?! Are you lost?!” Thomas asked. The filly nodded, and then he hugged her. “Do you want us to help you?”

“Y-Yes, please. It’s this way,” the filly said, as she lead them to the entrance to the Everfree Forest, and then Thomas felt scared. “Are you sure you know where we’re going? This is kinda spooky,” Thomas said. The filly suddenly stopped, and then suddenly, she then pretended to cry. Thomas went over to her and tried to comfort her, but he suddenly turned around to his big sisters were and shrugged his shoulders. Suddenly, the filly turned around unexpectedly and she revealed her true identity, which was a Changeling!

The three fillies looked with fearful shock and Thomas looked at them like they saw a ghost. “Thomas! Look out!” Scootaloo said. Thomas turned around and saw the Changeling, “AAAAAAAAHHH! MOMMY, HELP ME!”

“Hang on, little bro!” Scootaloo shouted, as she charged towards the Changeling, but two more appeared. Scootaloo backed up, and then Sweetie Belle screamed, “RUN!” The fillies ran off to hide. The Changeling that surrounded Thomas wrapped him up in Changeling slime and held him in its forelegs, “No! No! No! Help!” The Changelings flew off with their hostage, “MOMMY!”

“Oh no! They’ve taken our little brother!” Scootaloo said! “Come on, we gotta warn the others! They’ll know what to do!” Sweetie Belle said, and then they galloped off to Fluttershy’s cottage. While they ran, they felt guilty for letting their little brother be foalnapped by the Changelings.

Fluttershy was humming while watering her plants after feeding her animals, but she suddenly heard knocking and screaming, “FLUTTERSHY! IT’S US! PLEASE LET US IN!” Fluttershy trotted over to the door, and then opened it, until she saw the girls hugging her together. “What’s wrong, girls? What’s going on?” she asked as she comforted them. “Can you take us to Twilight’s after we tell you?” Apple Bloom asked. “Yes, but why?” Fluttershy asked. The girls then explained what happened to Thomas, and then Fluttershy felt her heart break.

Meanwhile, at the castle, Twilight, Starlight and her friends at her castle having some social time, but suddenly Fluttershy and the girls came in. The girls went to their sisters for comforting hugs, and then Fluttershy started crying after hearing what has happened to her son. “Fluttershy? Hey, what’s wrong?” Twilight asked. “It’s my son! The Changelings!” Fluttershy said. “What are you talking about?” Rainbow Dash asked. “THE CHANGELINGS! THEY’VE TAKEN MY BABY!” Fluttershy said. The other mares gasped with shocking horror about what they have heard.

“Those disgusting creatures that feed on love?!” Rarity asked. “Oh, this is not good,” Rainbow Dash said. “What would the Changelings want with the little feller?” Applejack asked, as her little sister was pressed against her chest. “I don’t know, but it sounds like Chrysalis is up to something,” Twilight said. “Twilight... he’s only a child. I’m so frightened. What if she hurts him or plots to kill him?” Fluttershy said, as she had tears in her eyes and continued to cry. “Hey, don’t give up hope just yet, but until we find out what to do...” Rainbow Dash said. “I promise we’ll get him back,” Twilight said. Fluttershy nodded and then hugged her friend, and continued to cry on her shoulder. “Shhhhhh... there, there. It’s gonna be okay,” Twilight said, as she rubbed her back. ‘Oh, Thomas. I just hope you’ll be okay, wherever you are.’

“Twilight! Princess Cadance and Shining Armor, including Amore heard the news! And Celestia and Luna! They want us to meet them at the Crystal Empire!” Spike said. Twilight gave Fluttershy over to Rarity. “I wish we could’ve saved him,” Sweetie Belle said. “Shhhhhh... Don’t be frightened, Sweetie Belle darling. I’m sure they’ll know what to do,” Rarity said, as she hugged her sister closer to her chest. “I’ll write to Sunburst and Trixie about this,” Starlight said.

Meanwhile, at the Crystal Empire, Princess Celestia stood at the balcony and stared at her sister’s moon with a look of pure anger. “Chrysalis, I swear if you harm one living limb of him, I will not hesitate to finish what I should’ve done a long time ago,” she said. “Please be safe, little Thomas.” She then felt a tear fall from her eyes. Princess Luna suddenly came over, and so did Cadance and Shining Armor. Flurry Heart was held in Cadance’s hoof. “Tia, I know you’re angry at Chrysalis foalnapping our dear little Thomas, but you must calm yourself otherwise you’ll end up like how I let my anger get a hold of me,” Princess Luna said. “My apologies, dear sister, but I’m just as worried as my faithful student and her friends are,” Princess Celestia said. “I understand. I too want him safely brought back, but we must know what she is plotting, until we find a way to rescue our precious little Thomas,” Princess Luna said.

“Your majesty, a Changeling was spotted near the palace, but we’ve lost the creature,” a crystal guard said. “Thank you, guard. We’ll deal with it tomorrow,” Princess Cadance said, and then the guard left for his duty. Flurry Heart whimpered about Thomas being scared, until Cadance gently rocked her, “Shhhhhh... There, there, Flurry. We’ll get Thomas back.” Flurry then smiled warmly and nuzzled against her mother’s chest fur. “I’ll go put her to bed,” Cadance said, as she then left the room and carried her daughter to her crib. Princess Celestia then went off to bed, until Princess Luna took one more look at the moon. ‘Please be safe, dear Thomas. I promise that we will get you back,’ she said to herself.

Author's Note

Oh no! The Changelings have taken Thomas! What’s gonna happen! :pinkiegasp: :twilightoops:

Chapter 3: Meeting Queen Chrysalis/A Changeling at the Crystal Empire

Meanwhile, in the Everfree Forest during the night, the three Changeling drones continued to journey back to the Badlands with Thomas still being carried and wrapped in the Changeling slime. “Put me down, you stupid houseflies! I won’t stand for this! Put me down!” Thomas said. The Changeling hissed at him, and then Thomas cowered, and then they made it back to the Badlands, until they saw the Changeling Kingdom up ahead, which was a really big pointy hive with big holes. Thomas gulped nervously and then the three drones carried him inside and through the caverns, then the Changeling that had Thomas held him against its chest as they entered their secluded area of the caverns in the hive. They then kneeled before their queen who was laying on all four legs on her throne.

She was as tall as Princess Celestia, but she looked different. She had a very dark gray chitin, a hideous looking dark cerulean mane and tail, a pair of light cerulean insect-like wings, a carapace on her back with a gradient shade of dark arctic blue to moderate green, and moderate harlequin eyes with dark grayish opal pupils and very deep opal eyeshadow. It was no other than Queen Chrysalis, the Queen of the Changelings.

“Your majesty, we’ve brought you our gift to you,” said the drone with Thomas held against him. Queen Chrysalis looked and saw him whimpering, “Excellent, my loyal servants. You’ve served Mommy well. Bring him to me.” The drone flew over and then handed Thomas over to her and then she held him on her foreleg against her chest as he was still blinded by the Changeling slime on his eyes. Some other Changelings could sense the fear coming from the boy, and could smell the delectable taste of his love, as their fangs dripped with saliva and got mischievously excited. Queen Chrysalis kissed Thomas on the top of his head and smiled evilly at her subjects lingering with hunger. “Now, now, my precious subjects. Be still,” she said. “Soon, my children, you shall be fed soon. For now, go out and buzz off around the hive and have some fun, and stand guard while me and this little one get acquainted with.” They all nodded and left them alone.

When Queen Chrysalis was alone with Thomas, she saw him trembling with fear, until she took him to her throne and then used her brilliant green aura to magically hold him, and then she laid on all four legs, and then she lowered him towards her and then placed her forehooves on each side of him. Then, she magically removed the slime from his eyes with her magic. “You can open your eyes, little one,” she said slyly mischievously. He opened his eyes, and then looked at her monstrous green eyes. “AAAHH!” He tried to escape, but Queen Chrysalis caught him with her aura and brought him back over to her. “W-Who are you? W-What do you want from me?!” Thomas asked while whimpering.

She grinned slyly and then she reached up his hoof and softly stroked the top of his head as he shook and whimpered. “My, aren’t you such a delectable, but adorable young creature. Now allow me to introduce myself. I am Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings,” she said. “And you, my dear child, are now my prisoner.” She then gave him an evil smile.

Thomas realized what she said, “You’re that mean bug queen that ruined Princess Cadance and Shining’s wedding!” Thomas said. “Right you are, little one,” Queen Chrysalis said. Thomas then began to cry, “P-Please, Q-Queen Chrysalis. Please let me go. *sniff* I wanna go home to my Momma.” Queen Chrysalis then chuckled evilly and then continued to stroke the top of his head and hug him from his left side, “I’m afraid I cannot allow you to escape, my dear. Not while I’m closer towards my goal.”

“W-What goal?” Thomas asked. “You see, dear. As Queen of the Changelings, it is my job to find food for my loyal subjects. We feed off the love of ponies and creatures in Equestria that have hearts of purity, passion and harmony.” she said as she placed her hoof on his chest. “Just like you, my precious little morsel. And the taste of pure love, it’s just delicious! But I always learn this: When there’s so many snacks, there’s so little time.” She then open her maw and leaned her head closer to him, and then she licked his face with her tongue, tasting the pure strength of his love that came from his big heart.

He trembled after wiping the saliva off his face, and then looked away from her without saying anything. Chrysalis then let out a soft cackle, “Now, now. No need to fear, my dear child. I promise you that it won’t hurt... much than you can imagine.” She then restrained the poor boy in Changeling slime and then hugged him against her chest. “Now, that me and my subjects have had a exhausting day, I am going to bed. And you are sleeping with me... so that you won’t escape me or having me catch you coming up with any foolishly stupid ideas, because you are going to stay here until we are ready to strike,” she said, as she kissed him on the cheek with her lips this time, and then a drone made him a makeshift bed. “Something to keep you comfortable,” she said. After Queen Chrysalis was now asleep with the child in her embrace, Thomas began to cry in his sleep as he realized he didn’t have his Snuggle Bear teddy with him.

The next morning, the group of mares, including Spike were on a train to the Crystal Empire. Fluttershy was still upset about her son being kidnapped by the Changelings, and she still continued to cry as she laid on all four legs and rested herself on Rarity’s lap. “There, there, Fluttershy darling. I’m sure he’ll be alright,” Rarity said, as she comforted her friend. “I know, Rarity. But he’s so precious to me,” Fluttershy said. “I know, sugarcube. But just be patient. They’ll know what to do,” Applejack said. Fluttershy nodded and then nuzzled her head into her front hooves as Rarity kept comforting her.

Starlight suddenly looked at Fluttershy crying on Rarity’s lap, and then felt sorry for her loss. “Wow, Fluttershy’s really not taking it so well,” she said. “I know,” Twilight said. “She really cares about him because he’s held a special place for her inside her heart, like he did to us. We’re the only family he has.”

“Wow, that’s really thoughtful of him,” Starlight said. “Besides, I’m really excited to see Sunburst and Trixie again, since I have to get back to some of my friendship lessons while we find a way to search for Thomas and save him.” Twilight shook her head, “Yes, I know. But yours in Ponyville isn’t going anywhere. Besides, everypony needs a break every now and then. I’ve figured you’d appreciate the chance to get to know Flurry Heart like last time. You two met each other, but never for to hang out last time, and I know she’s still a baby.” She then giggled. “But according to the handbook, they say alicorns mature pretty fast compared to normal foals. Plus, Flurry’s pretty sure to have grown bigger so much already, but I wonder if I’ll even recognize my niece now.”

Starlight giggled, “She’s the only baby alicorn they have in existence, Twilight. I don’t think you’ll be able to mistake her, but I’m sure it’ll be pretty easy to figure out who she is.” Twilight nodded in agreement, “You’re right, Starlight. But I’m guessing she’s worried about him being foalnapped, too.”

“Tell me about it. Now I know why we’re going to be looking for answers there,” Spike said, as he was wearing a disguise. “What’s with the disguise?” Twilight asked. “Because during the Equestria Games, I was carried on a big chair, treated with respect and then I humiliated myself during the entire tournaments,” Spike said. “Oh, Spike. We know that. Besides, everypony adores you,” Starlight said. “Yep, but I just wish I wasn’t the center of attention all the time,” Spike said. Twilight then hugged him, “I know, Spike. I know.”

Later on, they all arrived at the Empire, and walked downtown. While they were walking, they soon started to take notice of how deserted and abandoned everything seemed to be right now, and there wasn’t a pony in sight.

“It’s quiet,” Spike said, as they continued looking. “Too quiet,” he said again. “Where is everypony?” Rainbow Dash asked. “I don’t really know,” Applejack said. They then saw some of the shops not open, and some other places as well. “Sounds like everypony’s staying indoors for some obvious reason,” Starlight said.

“Odd. Cadance’s letter didn’t mention anything bad going on, and it’s not like that the whole empire knew that we were coming either,” Twilight said. “Something’s not right here.”

“What makes you say that? Is it because of nopony being here or if we’re in the right place or not?” Spike asked.

“Looks like that way to me. The Crystal Empire’s the only place where the trains would ever stop,” Twilight replied. “I guess we’ll just head for the castle. Maybe we’ll bump into some ponies along the way, or one.”

Starlight then gulped nervously, “Let’s hope so, because I’ve got a bad feeling about all of this.” Rarity then commented, “I hope you’re right about that, darling.”

“Umm, not to interrupt, but does anypony get the feeling like we’re being watched?” Spike asked. “It’s probably nothing, but it sounds like everypony’s scared of something,” Applejack said. “But more like a gut feeling that something’s out there, and we may be the only ones who don’t know about it,” Starlight said. “But I hope I’m wrong, and that it’s just me being crazy.”

The group then made their way through the very center of the empire, but found not a single crystal pony in sight or anywhere at all. The streets were still empty, motionless. “How long has this place been quiet? It’s getting really boring,” Rainbow Dash said. “Not only that. But either my brother has the strangest sense of humor, or something’s scared these crystal ponies into not coming out,” Twilight said. “This is really starting to freak me out. This doesn’t feel like an empire, it feels like a ghost town.”

“Yep. Somethin’s definitely not right here,” Applejack said. “I’m getting the same feeling,” Starlight said. “Umm... should we be worried? Oh, if only my precious little baby boy were here with his mommy,” Fluttershy said. “Don’t cry, darling. Once we find out what the situation is, we’ll continue our search for my darling little nephew,” Rarity said.

“Twilight, can I take these off? I’m starting to sweat and itch,” Spike asked. “Go ahead, Spike,” Twilight said. Spike then took off his hat, glasses, jacket and wig. “Ah, that’s better,” he said. “Let me take care of that,” Rarity said, as she scratched his back with her hoof. “Ahh... oh, yeah,” Spike said. When she was done, Rarity put his disguise in her saddlebag. “But still, why isn’t anypony coming out? It’s almost like they’ve seen a ghost or something,” Spike asked.

“I know Twilight and Applejack said it twice, but something is definitely not right here. Last time I was here, me, Spike and Trixie were foalsitting Thomas at Sunburst’s house while you all sorted out the Crystalling and stopping Sombra,” Starlight said.

“Well, I’m sure there’s a pretty logical explanation for all of this. For now, let’s just go to the castle and talk to my brother. Besides, not a thing happens in the Crystal Empire that he doesn’t know about, since he’s Captain of the Royal Guard,” Twilight said.

When they were all situated from a short time later, the group then all approached the front gate of the royal crystal palace. When they had barely taken five steps forward towards the entrance, they were suddenly halted at spear point by two guards. Both were stallions wearing crystal guard armor, but one had light purple fur and the other had yellow fur.

“Who goes there?! Not another step!” said the guard in purple. “Identity yourselves, now!”

“Um, you don’t seriously recognize Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship?” Starlight asked. “Which is me. That’s Starlight Glimmer, my pupil, my assistant and little brother Spike, which you may call Spike the Brave and Glorious, and my friends, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said. “Now, if you’d be so kind as to lower your spears and let us through.”

“Sorry, we can’t do that,” said the guard in yellow, as he shook his head. “All visitors must legally be cleared by us before they can enter. Can’t be too careful.”

“What are you on about? We just told you who we are!” Rainbow Dash snorted. “Yeah! We just want to see Captain Shinin’ Armor and Princess Cadance!” Applejack said. “Please, we mean you no harm,” Twilight said.

“We’ll be the judges of that,” the guard in purple snorted rudely. “Excuse me?!” Rarity scoffed. “I happen to be an excellent fashion designer and a fair lady, and I demand you treat us with respect!”

“Ma’am, I’m afraid we’re going to have to ask you for your identification before we ask you to leave,” the guard in purple said. “What?!” they all angrily shouted in unison.

“We’ll take care of things from here,” Princess Cadance’s voice said, as she, along with Shining Armor, who wore his entire armory, and Sunburst with Flurry Heart in her stroller held by his magic, walked over. “Shining, what’s going on?” Twilight asked. “We’ll explain everything, Twily... if it’s really you,” he said. Cadance then walked over to Twilight, and then nervously danced and chanted, “Sunshine, sunshine. Ladybugs awake?”

Twilight then happily repeated the motions in unison with Cadance, “Clap your hooves and do a little shake!” Then the two alicorns giggled and hugged each other.

Shining Armor then sighed, “It’s okay, everypony. It’s them. Stand down.” The guards then lowered their spears and then Shining Armor and Sunburst walked over to them, and then Twilight saw Flurry reaching her cute little legs out for her. “Oh my gosh! She’s gotten so big!” Twilight said. “Did you miss me?! Did you miss your Auntie?!” Twilight then tickled Flurry on her cute little belly. “Aww, she’s adorable,” Starlight said. “Do you want to hold her?” Cadance asked. Starlight nodded, and then carefully held Flurry against her chest. Flurry then reached out her front hooves for the big curl on her face. “Aww, you wanna play with my mane?” Starlight asked. “You’re just like Thomas when he was five.” She then lowered her head down so Flurry can play with the curl on her mane.

“So, why is everypony hiding?” Spike asked. “Well, we’ve received word that one of our citizens has spotted a changeling nearby,” Cadance said. “A CHANGELING?!” the group asked in unison. “That’s not good,” Spike said. “No, it’s not,” Cadance said. “Ever since Queen Chrysalis took my place at our wedding and invaded Canterlot with her army of minions, Shining’s been a little rough on the edge lately since he told you off by mistake.”

“I know, but I was just so angry. I thought you were healing me, but I suddenly realized that it was Chrysalis trying to take control of me,” Shining Armor said. “I swore to never make the same mistake again.”

“Ooh! Ooh! What if the changeling is a spy?!” Pinkie Pie asked excitedly. “That’s probably a good point, but we don’t know for sure,” Cadance said. “We’ll help you keep an eye on everything,” Rarity said. “But could you help us comfort poor Fluttershy? She’s suffering from what happened.”

“Yeah, we’ve heard,” Shining Armor said. “And that was a big mistake she’s going to regret! Nopony messes with a friend of Twilight’s family!” Cadance then trotted over to her husband and softly stroked his back, “Honey, calm down. You’re getting yourself worked up and it’s not good for you.” Shining Armor then sighed, “You’re right. I just don’t know why Queen Chrysalis would do such a thing.”

“It’s probably something, but what would just some random child like Thomas have?” Spike asked.

“I DON’T KNOW EITHER! WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR HOURS TO COME UP WITH A WAY TO SAVE MY PRECIOUS LITTLE ONE! I’M TERRIFIED ABOUT WHAT THAT MONSTER OF A QUEEN PLANS TO DO WITH HIM, AND HE’S ONLY A 6 YEAR OLD BOY, AND I LOVE HIM WITH ALL OF MY HEART! HOW WOULD YOU FEEL IF YOU LOST YOURS TO THE LIKES OF THEM?! I AM A GOOD MOTHER, SO DON’T YOU DARE QUESTION ME IF I DO OR DO NOT CARE ABOUT MY CHILD!!” Fluttershy said angrily. “Whoa...” Rainbow Dash said. “We know how you feel, Fluttershy. And since you’ve said it through your heart, we do know how much you care for him. We all care for him too,” Twilight said. “You don’t understand how hard it is to lose somepony that close to you,” Fluttershy said. “Oh, darling. We do know what that’s like. We almost lost our friends and families many times, but we managed to save them and apologize to them,” Rarity said.

“I... just want to hold him in my hooves again,” Fluttershy said, until she took out his Snuggle Bear teddy. “This is the only thing he had ever since he was a baby, and he sleeps with it if he gets scared.”

“I’m sure we can find some answers, but now... why don’t you all get situated?” Cadance asked, and then hugged Fluttershy closer towards her chest. “Spike, the royal guards were wondering if you would like to join in the search for the changeling,” Shining Armor said. “Really?!” Spike asked. “Uh, I don’t know if that’s such a good idea, Spike. It sounds kinda dangerous,” Twilight said. “Come on, Twilight, this is Spike the Brave and Glorious you’re talking to. Have you ever known me to run from danger?”

“Umm...” Twilight thought for a moment. “Don’t worry, Twily. He’ll be safe with our guards,” Shining Armor said. Twilight then sighed, “Alright, I trust you.” Spike nodded and then the two guards walked off with him, and then the others went inside.

Chapter 4: Spike Meets Thorax

Meanwhile, out of the Frozen North, Spike rode on the back of the purple guard with the yellow guard next to him all the way to the outskirts of the empire.

“So, Spike the Brave and Glorious, you’ve faced the evil changelings before. What can you tell us?” the guard in purple asked. “Well, actually I helped my friends save Canterlot, but I realized that since they’re changelings, they can change into any form of somepony to disguise themselves and feed off your love for others,” Spike said. The guards nodded in unison.

When they arrived at the destination, Spike carefully slid down and then planted his feet into the thick snow. He suddenly shivered a little bit, but he was lucky that his scales would keep him warm.

“Okay, I may not be a guard like you guys, but if we’re going to look for just some changeling, we’re gonna have to split up into pairs,” Spike said. “You hear that? These monsters can look like any of us, so be on your guard,” the guard in purple said, and then the guards replied with a nod. “Okay. You, search the right! And you, search the left! Meanwhile, I’ll... just... search through here,” Spike said. While he searched, Spike suddenly gave up, and sat on a boulder in boredom, but he suddenly felt a crack on the ground and then fell in. When he landed in the hole, he got up and then looked around. “Okay, maybe it’s time Spike the Brave and Glorious went back to, uh, protect those guards. Gah!” he said, as he suddenly saw his reflection. “Phew! Just my reflection.” He suddenly saw a copy of himself, “Huh? Hehehehe... Just my imagination, I hope...”

Suddenly the other reflection of him summoned green sparks, and then it revealed to be a changeling. “Whoa! Changeling!” Spike yelled as he sharpened his claws. “Stay back! I’m warning you! I’ve got claws and fire breath and I’m not afraid to use them!”

Suddenly, a small avalanche of rocky ice was about to fall onto Spike, but the changeling swooped in and saved both Spike and himself. “Sorry about that. I just didn’t want you to get hurt because of me. The ice is pretty slippery too, you know,” he said. “I don’t get it... Why’d you save me?” Spike asked. “You’re a changeling, meaning you’re supposed to be evil, right?”

“Yeah, but I’m really trying to look for some friends, even if I had any,” the changeling said. “What are you talking about?” Spike asked. “Let me explain...” the changeling said, and then a flashback appeared with him as a changeling larva hatching from his egg. He looked and saw many of them going to Chrysalis for comfort, and she levitated one up her hoof and kissed it. “From the moment I’ve spent in the nursery hive as a larva... I was also part of the attack on Canterlot during the royal wedding, but I’d honestly never seen true friendship like that! I knew I couldn’t just steal it and feed on its love. I actually wanted to share it!” he narrated, then he suddenly got blown off during the explosion. “After that, I knew I couldn’t live with my kind anymore. I set off looking for love to share, and to get away from Queen Chrysalis, from the hive!”

“Wow, that’s awful,” Spike said. “I know. But while I was wandering off in the Everfree Forest finding love to share, I suddenly saw a little unicorn filly that led three other fillies and one of them had a little boy with him,” said the changeling. “That’s Thomas!” Spike said. “What happened next?! Was he hurt?!” Spike asked. “No, but when the filly turned out to be a drone, two more appeared and took him to the hive in the Badlands, all the way to Queen Chrysalis herself. She’s been plotting her revenge for like months or even years,” said the changeling. “Wow... I never knew that. I’m Spike, by the way,” he said. “I’m Thorax,” he said, as he shook Spike’s hand. “So, you said you probably know where Thomas is hiding?” Spike asked. Thorax nodded, then Spike thought of an idea, “I got it! Wait here, and I’ll go see about taking you in, but if it doesn’t work, don’t say I didn’t warn you.” Thorax nodded and showed Spike the way back to the empire.

Back at the castle, the two guards were waiting for Spike to come back, but they suddenly saw him in one piece. “Oh, Spike the Brave and Glorious! You’re alright! Did you defeat the changeling?!” The purple guard asked. “We’re you lost on the way back?!” The yellow guard asked. “Well, I know defeating a changeling is brave, but maybe the changeling was misunderstood or something.” Spike said. “What do you mean?” The purple guard asked. “I’m just saying it maybe might want to make friends and just share love, if you know what I mean,” Spike said. The guards looked at him with confused brows, but then they burst into laughter. “For a second there, I thought you were serious!” The purple guard chuckled. “Can you believe it? Friends with a changeling?” The yellow guard chuckled back.

“I am serious! He saved my life!” Spike said. The guards continued laughing. “Oh, not only are you Spike the Brave and Glorious, but also Spike the Hilarious!” The purple guard laughed.

The yellow guard chuckled back, “Maybe you should be the jester for the castle, because it sounds like your jokes are on a riot!” They continued laughing until Spike started to feel let down. “Ahem!” a familiar voice cleared his throat. When Spike turned around, he and the guards who stopped laughing saw Shining Armor standing there looking very stern, and Princess Celestia was next to him. “What’s this I’m hearing? Making jokes are we?” Shining Armor asked with disappointment.

The guards gulped nervously, until the purple one spoke up, “Oh, C-C-C-Captain! We... We were just...” Princess Celestia spread out her wings, silencing them both, “Enough. I’ve never been so disappointed or ashamed of both of you.”

“And instead I find you both acting like a bunch of school colts in front of my little brother,” Shining Armor said. “This is not a joking matter! This is serious, and I humbly expect you both to treat it as such, or else I’m putting you both on probation for a month. Understood?” The guards nodded, and then Spike whispered into Shining’s ear. “Spike would also like for all of you to search the castle for the changeling and report back as soon as possible. Go on, get moving!” The guards nodded and went off to search for the changeling in the castle.

“I’ll return to the throne room,” Princess Celestia said. Shining Armor then looked down at Spike, “Sorry you had to see that, Spike. I just don’t know what’s gotten into those two.”

“Shining, I was actually being serious,” Spike said. “But you probably wouldn’t think a changeling could show a sense of humor, huh?” The captain suddenly didn’t understand a word Spike said, so he leaned down and then looked at him, “Why would you ask that? Are you hiding something?” Spike nervously shook his head, “No, not really. It was just a question.”

Shining Armor nodded in reply, “Look, I know that Queen Chrysalis trapped Cadance and put me under a spell. But assuming such a changeling that friendly would exist, I can’t answer if it was true. It would be just hard to believe, if you want my personal opinion.” Spike nodded, “I guess you’re right, Shining Armor. Sorry.”

Chapter 5: The Feast Begins/Introducing Thorax

Spike walked back outside, and then felt disappointed that nopony believed his story. “Great. At least that could’ve gone any better,” he said to himself. “Now, how am I gonna explain this to Thorax?”

“Explain what?” Thorax asked as he suddenly appeared beside Spike. It made the baby dragon jump and scream in surprise, “Thorax?! What are you doing here?! It’s not safe for you?!”

“I know, I know! But we have to warn them immediately! Thomas could die soon if we don’t do something!” Thorax said. “But you can’t stay here! Everypony’s too hostile to changelings right now!” Spike staunchly said. “What are we gonna do?! What are we gonna do?!” Thorax nervously asked while shaking. “I... I... I don’t-“ Spike said. “Wait, I’ve got an idea. It should work, but you’re probably not gonna like it.”

“What? Oh...” Thorax said, as he realized what Spike meant. “But, let’s wait till tomorrow. It’s getting late,” Spike said. Thorax nodded and then went back to hiding as Spike went back inside.

Meanwhile, at the hive, Queen Chrysalis awoke from her slumber, and then blinked her eyes open and saw the little child that cried himself to sleep. She grinned mischievously at how scared he looked, and then she brought him closer towards her chest and then nudged her head onto his. “Time to wake up, my sweet little treat,” she whispered. She then reached out her hoof up to stroke his head gently, but a little bit roughly.

Thomas suddenly whimpered as he felt her hoof starting to touch his cheek, “P-Please let me go, your highness. Please.” He was then cut off as she stomped her hoof in front of him, causing him to tremble. “SILENCE!” she shouted, as she then glared down at the terrified child. She then growled, but then took a deep breath and relaxed while she continued to stroke the child in a hug.

“I already told you. You are not going anywhere, small one. You are the only one I need to feed me and my subjects enough love so we will have all the strength we need to take our rightful place in Equestria!” she cackled. “And I expect your precious family to come looking for you. Because they’re in for a big surprise.” she then cackled again. “They will stop you! They stopped you before, and they can do it again!” Thomas said. “Because family protects you with their love, like how much they love me, and they always will!”

Queen Chrysalis then looked at him with anger, and then stood up to her full height, and then stomped her hooves, “You insolent little runt! You are as so naive and weak as you appear, and you think you have a strong willpower, but let’s see how strong your love really is!” She then lit up her horn and enveloped Thomas in her aura, lifted him up. “Hey, what are you doing?! Put me down! Put me down!” Thomas said. “Please sto... Gah!” Queen Chrysalis then squeezed him, and then she opened her maw and started to absorb another aura of light pink, which started to drain Thomas of his love until she started swallowing it.

Thomas kept struggling, but he suddenly felt weaker. While he was being drained, Chrysalis could somehow feel the aura she was swallowing envelope her as it injected into her with his love and it made her glow a little. “Oh, yes... Yes, this feels... deliciously magnificent and tenderly divine!” She then let out a cackle as she resumed absorbing a little bit more and swallowed the last bit.

She then released the scared child from her magic, causing him to gently collapse onto the ground after she dropped him on his feet. Thomas then looked a little pale, and then weakly struggled to move as his breathing got a little shallow and weak, until he started to cough softly and then he looked up at her. “Huh... huh... huh... Wha... What did... What did you just... do to me?” He asked in a soft, raspy and broken tone as he coughed while curled up on the ground trying to get up.

Queen Chrysalis chuckled evilly, and then heavily sighed with delectable satisfaction, “Mmm... I just absorbed and consumed some of your love, my dear. And I must say that it tastes simply delicious and raw-powered.” She then grinned widely and then placed him back on her throne with her aura, and then stroked at his back with her hoof. “Shhhhhh... Now you stay there, my dear child while I go feed my subjects. And then there’ll be more where that came from. Like you can go anywhere,” she said, and then walked out chuckling evilly, turning it into a big loud cackle.

When she was gone, Thomas then laid back down with tears coming out from his eyes, and then started to cry and whimpered.

Back at the Crystal Empire, the guards continued their search for Thorax, “Let’s move! Move! Move! This way! This way! Let’s go! Check there? Okay. Over here! Over here!” they shouted. “Look around every corner! Over there! Over there!”

In the throne room, the main group of ponies were struggling. “Okay, I know it’s bad that there’s a changeling in the Crystal Empire, but is all of this really necessary?” Starlight asked. “Well, if there is one changeling, there may well be a whole army on the way,” Princess Cadance said. “Oh, I’m so worried about my little Thomas!” Fluttershy said. “MY BABY!” Rarity then hugged the crying pegasus mare. “There, there,” Rarity said. “Although, Starlight has a point. This is probably getting a little bit out of hand,” Twilight said. Princess Cadance then sighed, “I understand, but I don’t know what else to do.”

“I do!” a voice said. It was Spike, and he had Thorax in shackles. The ponies gasped. “Spike! What are you doing?! Get away from that thing! It’s dangerous!” Shining Armor yelled. “No! I won’t let you hurt him! He’s not a thing or dangerous! His name is Thorax... and he is my friend,” Spike said. The ponies gasped again.

“Spike, you’re not thinking straight! That changeling must have you under some sort of mind control! Do you even realize what you’re saying or doing?!” Shining Armor yelled in concern. “I do, but he’s done nothing to you to deserve this!” Spike said. “So, don’t treat me like I’m some kid who doesn’t know what he’s doing! Thorax has been my friend since he told me about his horrible past about sharing love and wanting to make friends! And ever since he saved my life.”

They all gasped again. “I’ve heard enough! Guards, get this thing out of here!” Shining hollered, until two crystal guards pointed their spears at them. “Wait!” a voice said. They turned around, and saw Twilight. “Spike... I’m so proud of you,” she said hugging him after she walked over. “You just risked your life for a friend. A friend we never even got to know, and who saved your life.” Spike smiled, and then hugged her again. “Thorax, is it?” Princess Celestia asked. Thorax nodded, then the alicorn spoke again, “Why have you come?”

“I’m here to negotiate, because I have some news, but a few of them are good, while there’s some bad news,” Thorax said. “What news, darling?” Rarity asked. “The first good news is that I know where the hive is,” Thorax said. “You do?! Where?!” Rainbow Dash asked. “It’s in the Badlands, right next to the other side of the Everfree Forest. The other good news is that... I can take you there,” Thorax said, as he looked at Fluttershy. “But here’s the bad news. It’s where your son is being kept by Chrysalis. She and my other brethren kidnapped him because they wanted to feed off his love so they can get enough strength to conquer all of Equestria. I only managed to escape the hive because I felt uncomfortable about feeding off love like we usually do, but I saw the boy with three fillies being led by another, but it was actually a drone, and then two more appeared and took him back to the hive.”

They all gasped about how it happened. “But there’s something I also forgot to mention before we go. The throne is carved from an ancient dark stone that soaks up outside magic the same way changelings soak up love. It’s how she keeps the hive safe,” Thorax explained. “Aww, you poor thing,” Fluttershy said. “You must’ve suffered so much,” Rarity said. “Thorax? Are you sure you can help us get our precious little Thomas back?” Twilight asked. Thorax nodded, “But she might be expecting all of you to come, but I came up with a plan to bring only a small group with me.”

“I’ll go. I’ve been a good friend since you’ve saved me,” Spike said. “And if it’s okay with you, I’ll go as well,” Starlight said. “Actually, why don’t we all go?” Twilight suggested. “You could use some friendship by your side.”

The trio nodded, and then Princess Amore walked over to Thorax. “Thank you for volunteering for the rescue mission,” she said, and then gave him a kiss on the forehead. Thorax nodded, and then both Princess Celestia and Luna opened a portal to somewhere. “This portal will take you all to your destination, and somepony’s waiting for you there now,” Princess Celestia said. The group nodded, and then Spike climbed onto Twilight’s back, and then they all went through the portal.

Chapter 6: Journey to the Changeling Kingdom

When they arrived back at the castle, they had their travel bags packed and on their backs. “Okay, now Princess Celestia said that somepony’s meeting us at the entrance to the Everfree Forest, but who could she might’ve mentioned?” Twilight asked. “Hey! What’s that?!” Pinkie Pie asked excitedly pointing at a wagon that they familiarly knew. “I recognize that wagon. Doesn’t that belong to...?” Spike asked, until they were disturbed by a puff of smoke. “Behold! It is I, the Great and Powerful Trrrixie!” she shouted. “Trixie! You’re here!” Starlight said, as she went to hug her friend. “Yes. Princess Celestia sent me a letter about a rescue mission, I assume?” Trixie said. “It’s gonna sound bad, but it really is,” Starlight said. “Queen Chrysalis and the changelings are back. And they’ve foalnapped Thomas. We need to-“ She was interrupted by Trixie. “THEY TOOK MY DEARLY AND THOUGHTFUL NEPHEW?! How dare they?!”

“Yes!” Twilight said. “But we’re going to get him back, and you’re coming along,” Starlight said. “With you on our team, we can stop the changelings and save both our nephew and all of Equestria before it’s too late!”

“The Great and Powerful Trixie would be honored to join you! Just let me pack a few essentials,” she said, as she trotted inside her wagon to pack her bags, and when she came out, Trixie had some travel gear on her back. “I’m ready,” she said. “Lead the way, Thorax,” Twilight said, and then he led them through a safer part of the forest.

In the Changeling hive, Queen Chrysalis was standing before her army of hungry changelings that were lined up in rows and more rows of drones. She then paced back and forth as an evil grin was formed on her muzzle. Some of the drones fluttered their wings while some stayed on the ground while looking at their queen.

“My beloved changelings, soon we shall have our revenge as we continue to prepare to begin our strike against the Royal Sisters and her humble Elements of Harmony, and then begin our reigning conquest as the true rulers of all of Equestria!” she said. “After we have feasted on the love from our prisoner, we will take complete control of each region of Equestria until Canterlot is left, which will be my new region, and then all of the pitiful ponies will bow before my hooves! Our dream of a brand new changeling empire will soon come to be!” The changeling cheered in agreement. Chrysalis then stopped pacing, and then stood before her minions.

“And now, as promised. Let the feast begin,” she said, as she cackled and lit up her horn and shot many magical beams towards her drones, and then they were enveloped in her magical green aura and we’re now infused with the love from Thomas. Wide grins and snarls and laughs grew from their faces as they buzzed around and hovered into the air.

Chrysalis smiled proudly at her army as they were hovering and buzzing around with new strength and desire to feed on more love. She then crouched and hovered up to speak to them, “Now, my servants. In two days, we shall divide and conquer. And leave no region untouched, until we finally take our rightful place we truly deserve!” she then let out a loud cackle and her drones snickered and cackled with her. “Now, have fun around the hive, while I go check on the prisoner,” she said, and then the drones flew off and spread around the hive while others went into their holes to sleep, and then some went out to stand guard.

Chrysalis then lowered herself to the ground, and stopped fluttering her wings. “Phase two will soon be prepared. Now I must find a way to feed off more of the little one’s love since he is a strong-hearted child. And I know just how to do it,” she said, until she chuckled evilly as she continued to walk back to her throne.

Meanwhile, as they continued their journey, it got late later on, and as they sat by a warm campfire, Fluttershy was still worried about her little colt in the hooves of the changeling queen. “Are you still worried about him?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Yes. I know you’re all trying to help keep me calm, but I’m really scared of losing my little colt. I’m the only mother he has,” Fluttershy said. “Hey, try to relax. Princess Luna will be there watching over us on our journey,” Twilight said. Fluttershy nodded, and then she smiled softly, until they put out the fire and then went to their group tent to sleep. When Fluttershy slept, she was sleeping peacefully with Princess Luna’s magic.

“I can’t bear to see Fluttershy’s heart break,” Rarity said. “Yeah, but she’ll come around,” Applejack said. “Let’s give her some time.” The mares nodded in agreement and then went to sleep. Fluttershy looked at Princess Luna’s moon one more time, “Please be okay, Thomas. Momma’s coming.” She then blow-kissed the moon and then went to sleep.

The next morning, they continued their journey to the Changeling Kingdom as Thorax continued to lead the way. “How much farther are we?” Spike asked. “Not far, if I remember, which I do, but it’s been a while after I ran away,” Thorax said.

Fluttershy was still heartbroken about the loss of her son, but her lips were pursued with anger. The others looked at her with concern as she kept looking down in both depression and frustration every time she took a step from each of her hooves. Rarity and Applejack trotted over to her. “Fluttershy darling, do you want to talk to us, or do you still need more time?” Rarity asked, as Applejack placed a hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder.

Fluttershy then stopped and let out a deep sigh, as her eyes kept leaking with wet tears, “I can’t! Just leave me alone!” She trotted upward and then she kept walking. Rarity and Applejack felt worried about her, until Rarity felt her eyes starting to water with tears and wet mascara, “Oh, darling. We do know how much it feels to lose somepony close to you.”

“She’s right, ya know. We all felt the same way when you told us what our sisters told ya,” Applejack said. Rarity suddenly felt something gently clinging her neck, and then saw Fluttershy hugging her tightly, sobbing into her chest as she sat down on her haunches. “I know you do. It’s just too hard for me,” Fluttershy said, as she shook, and then Rarity gently wrapped her foreleg around her friend’s head and gently patted her soft mane. Fluttershy looked up at Rarity in the face. “I’m sorry, girls. I’m not mad at all of you. I’m just so worried about my precious... baby boy,” she said while whimpering. “OH, THOMAS!” She then cried into the white unicorn’s chest.

Rarity then embraced her friend’s head closer to her chest and then rubbed up and down on her back with her other hoof, “Shhhhhh shhhhhh... There, there, darling. You don’t need to apologize for being upset. We’re glad you took some time to talk to us,” Rarity said. “And I understand that you’re worried and upset about our darling little nephew, who is also your precious son, Fluttershy. We all are.” She then wiped Fluttershy’s tears with her hoof. “I know we said this already, but we’ll get the little feller back!” Applejack said. “If he’s still alive,” Rarity said.

The others, except Starlight, Trixie, and Thorax who looked through the map, trotted up to the three mares, and got into a group hug. “Yes, we will!” Fluttershy said. “Hey! Is that the place up ahead?! Because I thought it’d be kinda scary looking!” Rainbow Dash said, as she pointed to the Changeling hive up ahead. They all looked and saw it from afar. “Oh, my goodness!” Rarity said.

“I thought I’d be happy to never see this place again,” Thorax said. “That’s a lot of changelings to live in one big hive,” Twilight said. Starlight then walked over towards the edge, and tried to use her aura, but suddenly it faded away in a flash. “I think Thorax was right. This place is magic proof. Now we can’t use magic against her,” Starlight said. “Now, what do we do?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Umm... panic?” Fluttershy said. “Do you wanna save your kid or not?!” Rainbow Dash asked. “Leave her alone, Rainbow Dash! Fluttershy’s in a really bad place! So I think we should all go in together, unless... Oh! Right! Thomas’s invisibility cloak!” Rarity said, as she took out the cloak and expanded it into group size, and then they got underneath the cloak. When they were ready, they went on ahead.

Chapter 7: Sneaking Into The Hive, Part 1

The group continued to sneak past the guards while wearing the invisibility cloak. “So, uh, what kind of plan were you thinking about, either one of you?” Trixie softly asked Twilight and Starlight. “I don’t know! Twilight’s the leader!” Starlight softly replied in a whisper. “Without magic, we have no idea. But nopony else is coming. So it’s just us for now, so somepony better come up with something and think of it fast.”

“I think Starlight’s right. We better try something without magic,” Twilight said. “So, what do we do after we get inside without being detected?” Rarity asked. “How about a distraction party?!” Pinkie Pie asked. “SHHHHHH!” the others whispered. “Sorry,” Pinkie Pie whispered. They then continued their journey inside while the guard armored changeling drones were distracted without them noticing. “Okay, we’re clear,” Thorax said, as he lead the group inside through a small hole. They saw a few holes changing positions everywhere and saw a lot of green glowing cocoons. “Ugh, it’s simply ghastly, darling. How do they even keep this place clean?” Rarity said. “It’s kinda how Chrysalis likes it,” Thorax said. “Okay. For once, I am definitely glad you came. I don’t think we’d be able to find our way out without you,” Trixie said. “Ya said it,” Applejack said. “You definitely wouldn’t,” Thorax said, pointing at the hole that they came in from closing. “Seriously?!” Rainbow Dash asked. “Um, where’s the way out?” Fluttershy asked. “It’s a changeling hive. It shifts and changes like we do, and we’re the only ones who can navigate it. I can assure you it’ll definitely give you nightmares,” Thorax said, as he continued to lead the way.

“So, are you sure we can some of our magic back when we destroy that so-called throne?” Rainbow Dash asked. “If Thorax is right, then yes. But if not, we’ll have to come up with another way,” Starlight said. “Well, that’s reassuring, darling,” Rarity said.

“And how are we supposed to destroy the throne when we find it?” Trixie asked. “I... honestly don’t know,” Twilight said. “Forget I asked then,” Trixie said. “Well, I don’t suppose you brought something we can use like something useful?” Spike asked. “Ooh! Ooh! What about an exploding cake filled with confetti?!” Pinkie Pie screamed. “Not exactly, but I did bring these,” Trixie said, showing them her smoke bombs. “That might work,” Applejack said. “But at least try to keep the smoke out of my eyes. I’ve gotten my mascara taken care of recently,” Rarity said. Trixie nodded. “Okay, now that we’re done gossiping, can we move on please? The sooner we find Thomas and destroy the throne, the sooner we go home,” Twilight said. They all nodded and continued to follow Thorax.

“So, are you sure you’ve got this, Starlight?” Twilight asked. “I don’t know. I couldn’t handle giving advice at the Sunset Festival, and I had magic then! And the nine of us are as good as useless! But at least Thorax knows where we’re going,” she said, while they trotted up the stairs. “Um, guys? I think we’re lost,” Thorax said, as they found out they were now in the middle of nowhere.

“Oh, great! This is so boring!” Rainbow Dash said. “Oh, I hope my little Thomas is still okay. He could be anywhere,” Fluttershy said. “We’ll keep looking,” Twilight said. “That’s good, because I’d rather not just sit here and wait for the changelings to just come right here and soak up all of our love or whatever gross thing it is they do,” Trixie said. “Thorax! Your wings! Were they like that before we met you?” Starlight asked. “Actually, yeah. They were, but I’ve recently shared some love with animals instead of feeding off their love, and it kinda made me end up like this. And I think I haven’t been hungry since I’ve met all of you,” Thorax said. “But changelings are always hungry. Meaning we can never got enough love. Somehow when you guys accepted my friendship, I might’ve forgotten about the whole feeding thing.”

“Well, I think you look smashing with those sparkles on your wings, darling!” Rarity said. “Really? Well, thank you,” Thorax said. “Well, at least it can’t get any worse, right?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Nope! Not even close! Hehehehe!” Pinkie Pie said, until her giggle suddenly echoed. The changelings suddenly heard the echo and started to come out and hiss.

“Oops, sorry,” Pinkie Pie said. “It’s alright, darling. But at least you didn’t wake them up, so we should be fine,” Rarity said. They suddenly heard a sound of distant humming with a little buzzing. “Um... W-What’s that?” Trixie asked. “That doesn’t... sound good,” Fluttershy said. “It’s a changeling patrol! Run!” Thorax said, and then they all started running as a swarm of angry changelings chased after them.

Meanwhile, Thomas was laying on her throne curled up tightly in a ball, and shaking with sobs that allowed his tears to flow as he cried himself to sleep. He was still weakened by so much pain from Chrysalis absorbing and consuming most of his love, and felt broken and helpless as a dog a she was slowly and shallowly breathing with soft wheezing. His eyes suddenly shot open in fear as he suddenly heard hoofsteps approaching. He slowly turned himself on another side to look up at the evil changeling queen slowly approaching towards him.

He then whimpered as he tried to slowly crawl and climb off the throne so he can get away from her and find a way out, but he was still too slow and weak to move, but he barely had enough strength left. She looked down at him with a mischievous smirk, and placed a hoof in front of him, causing him to freeze and slowly look up at her.

Chrysalis then shook her head and clicked her tongue, “You silly little boy. Where do you think you’re going?” Chrysalis then lifted her hoof off his foot and stepped forward to stand closer and over him. She then reached her hoof up, and stroked the top of his head roughly as he started to shake and whimper underneath her uncomfortableness. She then grinned more, and then she heard the sound of buzzing, realizing what was going on out there, then smirked mischievously. “Looks like your precious and pitiful mother isn’t here to save you after all,” she said as she then let out a ruthless laugh. Thomas was then shocked about what she said, “No! You’re lying!”

“Oh, really? And how is she going to save you when my drones are already in position?” Chrysalis asked, until Thomas looked down in depression and sadness as he continued to let his tears keep flowing. Chrysalis then levitated the poor and defenseless child up in her aura. Thomas then looked into her eerie green eyes with the feeling of both fear and guilt for believing his mother being captured and that nopony would come save him, until he yelped in pain as Chrysalis squeezed him tightly and then he felt himself being draining once more, and then he lost most of his life force after all of that love inside was gone. After Chrysalis put him back down on the throne, she wrapped him in a bunting made of changeling slime and then hung him up in a changeling cocoon. “This ought to keep you out of trouble for now,” Chrysalis said, as she flew away with an evil cackle.

Chapter 8: Sneaking Into The Hive, Part 2

The changeling drones were searching everywhere for the intruders. Meanwhile, the group hid somewhere safe, and Starlight and Twilight were calming a hyperventilating Thorax. “Okay, maybe this is starting to seem like it’s one of those moments where we need a plan,” Rainbow Dash said. “Ya said it. Otherwise, we would’ve been changelin’ feed,” Applejack said. “What kind of plan?! We have no magic, and it’s not like my illusions are gonna save us!” Trixie said. “Wait! Do you have any of your smoke bombs still?” Starlight asked. “Are you kidding?” Trixie asked. “Starlight, you’re a genius!” Twilight said.

Half of the patrol kept looking until they saw what appeared to be Trixie. “Looking for somepony?” she asked. The swarm approached her, until she threw a smoke bomb on the ground and disappeared, leaving the drones confused. “Is that the best you’ve got?!” Trixie sarcastically cackled, then she made several poofs from her smoke bombs, and then the changelings were somehow dizzy.

“Eh, I’ve seen better,” Pinkie Pie said. “Hm. I’ll take it,” Trixie said. They then saw the other Trixie appear, but it was actually Thorax. “That was a pretty good plan,” he said. “But we still don’t know where we’re going,” Rarity said. “Actually, we might. Another half of the changeling patrol didn’t go with the rest,” Twilight said. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Spike asked. “Oh! With an intruder in the hive, they went to protect the queen! Good thinking, Twilight!” Thorax said. Twilight nodded.

“So, what do we do now?” Applejack asked. “I’m fresh out of smoke bombs,” Trixie said. “We go in,” Twilight said. “But we’ll need some kind of distraction,” Starlight said. “Starlight, you and Thorax go on ahead and look for the throne. It’ll probably be where she might be keeping Thomas hostage. We’ll take care of the rest so that we’ll buy you some time,” Twilight said. “Starlight? Please save my precious little one,” Fluttershy said. “We will,” Starlight said. “Alright! Let’s get this party started!” Pinkie Pie said, as Starlight and Thorax went on ahead.

The eight surviving heroes went on ahead and distracted some of the other changelings. “Hey! Changelings! Want some of this?!” Pinkie Pie asked, as they hissed at her. “Well, come and get it!” Pinkie Pie then launched an exploding cake full of smoke bombs, and then Rainbow Dash, Spike and Applejack fought the changelings by force.

Starlight and Thorax went through a few tunnels, and suddenly felt scared a little. “I know you said something about this being kinda freaky, but this is pretty creepy,” Starlight said. “Yeah, I know,” Thorax said. “So, can you tell me about your nephew?”

Starlight started explaining, “Well, it’s a long story.” She then told him how Thomas made his magical wish to Luna’s moon when he lived in the orphanage, and how he was brought to Equestria and how he met his new family and got adopted by Fluttershy. She then told him about his encounter with King Sombra, and some of the good times he’s had in Ponyville.

“Wow, I didn’t even know he felt that way. At least you took care of him during the Sombra attack,” Thorax said. “Mmhmm. I just love being a good aunt,” Starlight said. “When we find him, we’ll find a way to restore him to good health, if we’re not too late,” Thorax said, and then Starlight nodded. “Hey, I think we’re getting close, but I think it’s another long way.”

“Good, but I kinda had this crazy idea,” Starlight said. “Yeah, me too,” Thorax said. “But it’s not gonna be easy.” Starlight nodded in agreement and listened to Thorax’s plan.

Meanwhile, Fluttershy helped Rarity set up a trap for them, and Trixie had Spike on her back as he used a red scarf as a leading flag for the changeling swarm and Twilight led the way. When they made it to the net, the changelings were captured and then tied up by Applejack’s lasso. “And let me just tighten it up there, and... there we go,” she said. “That’ll hold ‘em for now, at least.”

“I can’t believe that actually worked!” Trixie said. “Great job, everypony! Now, let’s go catch up with Starlight and Thorax,” Twilight said.

As they were about to go catch up with Starlight and Thorax, the changelings suddenly broke out of the net. “Maybe not!” Rainbow Dash said. “RUN!” Twilight said, as they ran from the angry changelings.

They suddenly ran through a few tunnels while a few changelings kept chasing them one another. When they got back together, they suddenly found a safe place to hide. “We can’t keep this up any longer! If we do, then we’ll end up like the changelings,” Rainbow Dash said. “You mean... trapped in one of... those... disgusting and revolting cocoons?!” Rarity shuddered. “I’m with ya, Rare,” Applejack said.

“Oh, Thomas. Where are you?” Fluttershy said. “I don’t know, but we’ll find him,” Applejack said. “Yes, darling. But between seeing ourselves and those horrible changelings, the castle will be crawling with guards soon,” Rarity said. “But if we do manage to find a way to destroy the throne, we’ll still have a chance to get our magic back and stop Chrysalis. We could still take her on and the entire changeling army and save our nephew!” Twilight said.

“I like the sound of that!” Rainbow Dash said. “Yeah! This call for a butt-kicking party!” Pinkie Pie said, until they saw glowing eyes surrounding them. “Oh, dear...” Rarity said. The group suddenly got caught and then they fought back while some of them hid themselves.

Chapter 9: Facing Queen Chrysalis

Starlight and Thorax finally made it to the cavern where the throne was, and then saw how big it was. “That’s the throne right there,” Thorax whispered. “How do we get in there without her noticing?” Starlight softly asked. “Remember the plan?” Thorax asked. “Oh! Right!” Starlight said. Thorax then turned into Starlight as a distraction, “I’ll distract her, you destroy the stone.” Starlight nodded and then she snuck through a few holes, until Thorax entered. “Oh, my...” he said, until there were the buzzing sound of changeling wings, and then changeling slime was splat on his forelegs, and a recognizable evil laugh was heard.

“One little pony all by herself,” a voice said. A pair of forelegs appeared and climbed over Thomas’s cocoon. It was Queen Chrysalis, as she crawled like an insect with her joints cracking, and then lifted her head to look at Thorax and then rotated her head. “Oh, how will I ever prevent this daring rescue?”

The changelings screeched and hissed at Thorax, until he nervously gulped, and then saw the rest of the group brought in by the other changelings. “Well, well, well, if it isn’t Princess Twilight Sparkle and her little band of friends, and I see you’ve brought some fresh meat. Your sole pupil, I presume?” Queen Chrysalis asked evilly, until she chuckled. “Honestly, I didn’t think you were worth of replacing with one of my drones.”

“Where’s my son, you monster?!” Fluttershy asked angrily, while gritting her teeth and snorting. “So, the little morsel is your son after all, but I’m afraid you’re too late,” Queen Chrysalis said, as she looked at the cocoon, and they gasped at him as he still looked pale and scrawny from his love being drained. “Thomas!” Fluttershy screamed. “What did you do to him?!” Twilight asked angrily. “Oh! Such anger. And I see you do care for the little morsel. His love was as delicious as Shining Armor’s during my attempt at Canterlot. But to be fair... you interfered with my plans of conquest! So I returned the favor by capturing your precious little boy, and made him a full course meal for me and my subjects! Soon, when we rid you off the pavement, Equestria will be ours!” Chrysalis cackled.

“You’ll never get away with this!” Thorax struggled. “Oh, but I already have. Nopony is coming to save you lot or help rescue the little weakling you call a son. Your pathetic attempt was futile, and now you will join the child after we have taken over your world, and destroy Celestia and Luna!” Chrysalis said. “Oh, yeah! Well, Thorax is still out there! How would you feel?!” Thorax asked.

“Don’t you dare mention that traitor’s name in my kingdom!” Chrysalis hissed. “He was a pathetic and insolent fool to leave and even more of a fool to return! But when I find him, he’ll learn his lesson about just what happens to those who betray the hive!” Thorax suddenly whimpered, as his eyes accidentally flared, causing Chrysalis to smirk, “And it seems I don’t have far to look, do I...” Thorax whimpered more, until Chrysalis then lit up her horn and zapped her aura at Thorax, revealing his true self. “Thorax?!” The changelings hissed, and then the group of heroes got scared.

Chrysalis suddenly heard the sound of rocks pounding, and she then saw Starlight trying to destroy her throne. “Oops,” Starlight said, until Chrysalis tried to blast her with her magic. “Very clever,” Chrysalis said, as she crawled around trying to search for Starlight. “And clearly that idiotic Thorax revealed to you the secret of my throne. I can’t have powerful ponies or one pathetic dragon infant using their abilities against me. Even with your rather, should I say, embarrassing little rescue attempt for the child, everything will now go according to my plan.”

“What plan? Why did you take him?! He’s done nothing to you! He’s just a kid!” Starlight asked. “So I could feed, of course!” Chrysalis replied, as she found where Starlight was hiding until she ran off. “And after I ordered my drones to bring him here so I could feed off his love for you and your friends, including his beloved mother, and give it to my subjects and feed some for myself, I devised a plan to strike Canterlot and all of Equestria after we destroy the Royal Sisters. After all of that, my drones will be able to store all the love meant for them and return it here to me, meaning I will then be invincible! And everypony will do as I command, and my subjects and I will feed on their love for generations after another!” She then cackled maniacally.

“You will never get the chance!” Twilight said. “That’s right, we can still take you with or without our magic!” Rainbow Dash said. “Ha! You’re welcome to try!” Chrysalis said. The six mares suddenly began to glow, and they lit up their horns. “Wow! The Tree of Harmony must’ve heard us!” Twilight said. “Awesome!” Rainbow Dash said. “Let’s get her!” Pinkie Pie said, and then they charged towards Queen Chrysalis. “Get them!” she hollered as her drones flew towards them.

They then fought off the changeling drones like back at the wedding, and then they were about to head towards Chrysalis.

“Alright, let’s finish this!” Twilight said, and she and Chrysalis clashed their beams, but Chrysalis was too strong for Twilight, and she defeated her and blasted her in the stomach. “No!” the other five shouted in unison. Then Chrysalis lit up her horn and blasted a beam of her magic at the other five, leaving them defeated. Chrysalis was about to blast them again, but she felt something bite her neck, and she let out a scream of pain. It was Spike and she was not tugging her mane, “You stupid beast! Get off me!” she shouted as she used her magic and threw him onto the floor. “Spike!” Twilight shouted.

Chrysalis then walked over to them as her drones held the seven still, and Trixie too. “And now, Starlight Glimmer! Prepare yourself as I feast off the love from your friends!” Chrysalis said, as she lit up her horn.

Starlight then thought for a moment, “What if you didn’t have to?” Chrysalis stopped, “Ha! Ridiculous! The hunger of changelings can never be satisfied!”

“Exactly! Thorax left the hive because he wanted to make a friend, and he did that!” Starlight said. “He shared love, and now he doesn’t need to feed. You don’t have to live your lives starving all the time!”

“You know nothing of the changelings or what it takes to be their queen! I decide what is best for my subjects, not some mewling grub like that traitorous Thorax!” Chrysalis said. “But I know what it’s like to lead by fear and intimidation! And I know what it’s like to want everypony to do what you say or want!” Starlight said. “But I was wrong. A real leader doesn’t force her subjects to deny who they are! He or she celebrates what makes them unique and listens to when one of finds a better way for themselves!”

“The only thing Thorax has found is what happens to those who turn their back on the hive!” Queen Chrysalis said, as she levitated Thorax from his capture and held him in her aura. “No! Wait! Stop!” Twilight said. “Just as soon as I drain and consume every last ounce of love from him, I will show my subjects what a real leader is!” Chrysalis snarled as she started to consume Thorax’s love. “I can feel the love inside me slipping away...!” Thorax strained. “I can’t hold onto it much longer...!”

Starlight suddenly had an idea, “Then don’t! Sharing love is what made you different to begin with! You should share your love with Chrysalis! Give her all of it!” Thorax nodded, and then he suddenly felt a huge burst coming from inside, and then he shared a huge beam of love with Chrysalis. She was blasted back towards her throne, and then she was terrified about what Thorax was doing until the love enveloped him into a cocoon. When Starlight touched it, she saw Thorax as a taller changeling with light lime green chitin with a brilliant gamboge tint on his chest, a dark azure carapace with a moderate emerald green underside, moderate blue violet wings and dark fuchsia elytra on his back, moderate rose eyes, and brilliant light orange beetle-like mandibles on his head. Everypony in the throne was shocked.

“See?! This is what happens when you give love freely instead of taking it! Why don’t you try it out for a change?!” Starlight said, showing how Thorax got his new look. The drones then thought for a moment and then decided to share their love with each other and Chrysalis’ throne started to crack and she was now afraid. After all that love was shared, the top of the hive exploded, leaving so much debris and rubble.

Starlight turned off the force field and then she and Thorax saw a beautiful sight The changelings landed and got new forms in colors of cyan, brilliant green, sea green, light lime green, and greenish yellow, causing them to like their new looks. Twilight and the others went to Starlight and Thorax for a group hug. They then saw Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadance, Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, Sunburst, and Princess Amore, and a few guard ponies from Canterlot with them. “Well done, Starlight Glimmer. You and your friends, including Thorax have shown the hive what it means to share love,” Princess Luna said. Starlight nodded, and the other squeed and made a group hug again. “Oh no! Thomas!” Starlight said, then she saw some changeling drones bring his cocoon forward. They put him down and one of the drones opened it, and safely took him out. They all gasped, and saw Thomas’s poor condition as he slept towards the changeling’s chest.

“THOMAS!” Fluttershy screamed as she ran over to her child with fear and worry, and slowly trotted and then held her little colt in her hooves. The others came to look. “Oh, you poor child. What has she done to you?” Princess Celestia asked in worry. They suddenly heard him silently breathing, but shallowly, and moaning while breathing, as Fluttershy placed his head on her chest to hear her heartbeat. “Please, my baby boy, please stay with me. Momma’s here now,” she said softly as she felt tears sting her eyes as he didn’t reply since he was very weak. “We got to get him to the hospital,” she said, as they nodded in agreement.

Before they all left, they heard rubble crumbling, and it was Queen Chrysalis, and she hissed at them, until they looked at her with angrily stern faces while Fluttershy held her son against her chest.

Starlight walked over to the changeling queen who shuddered in fear and defeat, “When Twilight and her friends defeated me, I chose to run away and seek revenge! But you don’t have to. You can be the leader your subjects truly deserve.” Queen Chrysalis saw Starlight trying to help her up, so she was about to take Starlight’s redemption, but she got angry and smacked it away from her.

“There is no revenge you could ever conceive of that will come close to what I will exact upon you one day, Starlight Glimmer!” she said angrily, and then she fell backwards and fled. The others saw this, and Starlight felt disappointed, until Twilight comforted her. “We haven’t seen the last of her, but we’ll probably run into her again.”

“Thorax, as the new leader of the changelings, I look forward to discussing how we can improve our relationship in the future. However, for the moment, perhaps it is best that we leave the Changeling Kingdom to the changelings,” Princess Celestia said. Thorax nodded, and then he and Celestia turned their heads, and then frowned as they saw Fluttershy cradling her son in her embrace. “Sister, we must get Twilight and her friends back home so they can take our precious little Thomas to the hospital,” Princess Luna said.

Princess Celestia nodded, and then walked over to Fluttershy. “My dear Fluttershy, it’s time for you and your friends to go home,” she said. Fluttershy nodded and then she and her friends walked over to the carriage where two pegasus guards were waiting. They sat down, and then Fluttershy heard a voice, “Momma...?” Fluttershy looked and saw Thomas weakly opening his eyes. “I’m so cold...” he said softly, as he started to weakly cough. “Shhhhhh shhhhhh... just hold on, sweetie. We’re going to get you some help,” Fluttershy said. “Here, darling. This should keep you warm for now,” Rarity said, giving him a blanket. Thomas nodded and then slept against his mother’s warm fur as he curled with the blanket. “Thomas? I think this belongs to you,” Twilight said, as she gave him his Snuggle Bear teddy, and then he hugged it against his scrawny body. The guards then flew and pulled the carriage as they took the group all the way back to Ponyville.

Chapter 10: Hospitalization/Safe at Last

When they arrived back in Ponyville, the mares and Spike went inside the Ponyville General Hospital as Fluttershy continued to hold her son against her chest. They then went to the front desk, where a mare with light gray fur, a light grayish pink mane and tail with her mane tied in a bun, brilliant sapphire blue eyes, a white hat with a cutie mark of a medical cross with four pink hearts on each corner and a big red heart in the middle. “Hello, can I help y...” she asked, until she saw Fluttershy’s son in his terrible condition, then got off her desk and trotted over to them. “Oh my! What’s happened to him?”

“He was captured by Queen Chrysalis and her changeling army, but we were brave enough to save him,” Twilight said. “And that changeling queen drained all of his love and now he’s very ill,” Rarity said. “Oh, the poor dear,” Nurse Redheart said. “Can you please help him? My son’s only 6 years old and I love him,” Fluttershy said. “Give him to me, ma’am. I’ll take him to the emergency room immediately. Why don’t you all wait out here and I’ll come back to inform you about your son?” Nurse Redheart replied as she held Thomas against her chest. The other mares and Spike nodded. “Thank you, Nurse Redheart. Is it okay if we stay over?” Twilight asked. The kind nurse nodded and then carried him towards a stretcher and placed him onto it, and then she and the other medical staff rolled him to the emergency room to examine him.

A few hours later, Thomas started to open his eyes and suddenly saw a flashlight in his vision, until his vision cleared and he saw Nurse Redheart examining his eyes. “Thomas... Thomas... Thomas... Thomas. Are you alright, sweetheart?” Nurse Redheart asked as he continued to follow the light. “Good. Good. Looks like your pupillary response is normal.”

Thomas then yawned, until he softly coughed. “Shhhhhh... Easy there, dearie. You’re very ill,” Nurse Redheart said. “Where... Where am I?” Thomas rashly asked. “You’re in the hospital in Ponyville,” Nurse Redheart asked. “My name is Redheart, the nurse. I know who you are. You’re Fluttershy’s son, Thomas.”

“Is my Mom... my Momma okay?” Thomas asked, as he was still shallowly breathing. “Yes, she’s fine. She and her friends are resting in the waiting room right now,” Nurse Redheart said. Thomas then felt his stomach rumble, until he pouted with a blush. “It’s okay. You’re just starving,” Nurse Redheart said. “Here. Drink plenty of water, and eat.” Thomas nodded and then before she left, he gave Nurse Redheart a hug. “Thank you for taking care of me,” Thomas said. The nurse suddenly smiled warmly, “You’re welcome, dear. Now, just eat up, and get some rest. You’re very exhausted.” Thomas nodded and ate his big meal later on, until he was finished and rubbed his full belly. When it got late, he fell asleep after his last three cups of water, and slept with his Snuggle Bear teddy with him, until Nurse Tenderheart came in the room and took the tray, but tucked him under the bedsheets first.

The next morning, as Celestia’s sun started to rise, the group was still asleep in the lobby of the hospital refusing to leave, or if they wanted to hear an update about Thomas’s condition from the kidnapping. When Twilight woke up, she saw Nurse Redheart come over with a soft, warm smile. “Guys, wake up,” Twilight said, and then the others blinked their eyes open, and then slowly shot open when they saw Nurse Redheart.

Fluttershy was now wide awake from resting with Rarity and then she trotted over to the nurse with a look of worryingly concern, “How is he? Is my baby okay?”

Nurse Redheart nodded with a soft, warm smile on her muzzle, “Yes Fluttershy, he’s doing fine right now. However, when you brought him in, he was very weak and pale, and terribly freezing, and both exhaustingly dehydrated and starving. But the good news is that his heart rate was normal, and we made sure to give him plenty of food and water so he can recover his strength. We need to let him rest for a little while after providing some extra blankets to keep him warm, so you’ll have to come back later.” They all nodded, and then they went to the cafe for breakfast. “I’ll go get the girls. I’m sure they’ll be happy with seeing their little brother again safe and sound,” Starlight said. Twilight nodded, and then her pupil went to go retrieve the three fillies.

A smile of happy relief was made on Fluttershy’s face as she went over and wrapped her forelegs around Nurse Redheart’s neck, “Thank you for helping my son.” Nurse Redheart nodded, and then she went to go check on Thomas, and she saw Nurse Tenderheart giving Thomas his breakfast, which were scrambled eggs, two hash browns, and some orange juice to drink. When he was done, Nurse Tenderheart took the tray away and then Thomas drank some water 3 times, until he saw Nurse Redheart coming over to him. “How are you feeling, sweetie?” she asked. “I’m feeling pretty good, but I can’t move my legs and I’m still tired,” Thomas said, as he then felt himself leaned towards Nurse Redheart’s chest. “Don’t worry, sweetie. We’ll take care of everything. Now, if you want, you’re welcome to read a few books we’ve provided, and try to rest a little bit,” Nurse Redheart said, as she continued to hug him gently. Thomas nodded and then Nurse Snowheart gave him a bookshelf so he can choose from a few books, until he took a nice nap later on. Nurse Snowheart came by and put the book back on the shelf and fixed Thomas’s sheets and tucked him in again.

Later on, the 3 fillies arrived with Starlight, and then Nurse Redheart walked over to the group. “Good news, he’s eaten and had his orange juice, and 3 cups of water,” she said. “If you want to, you can go and see him, but try to be quiet while entering. He’s sleeping right now.” They all nodded in agreement. “We’ll try,” Twilight said. Nurse Redheart then nodded in agreement, “That’s fine. Now follow me and I’ll show you to his room.” She then turned around and led them to Thomas’s room.

After following the nurse and upon entering the room, they saw Thomas sleeping peacefully as he laid on his back after drinking his 3 cups of water and taking his pills, and they saw his chest slowly rising up and falling down as he slowly. Nurse Redheart then let them inside quietly. Fluttershy trotted over to her little boy and then softly stroked his little head. A tear filled smile crept on her face as she leaned her head down and gave him a kiss on the forehead.

The others had tearful smiles after they were relieved about their nephew feeling okay. Thomas suddenly woke up very exhaustingly and opened his eyes. “M... Mo... Momma?” Thomas asked softly as his vision starting clearing up. Thomas suddenly felt tears sting his eyes. “MOMMA!” he said as he sat up and went to his mother for a hug against her chest and she wrapped her forelegs around his small form. “Oh! Momma! I thought you’d never find me!” Thomas said. “Shh shh shhh shhhhhh... Aww, Thomas. It’s okay, baby. Momma’s here. Momma’s got you. Shhhhhh...” she said as she strongly his back and shoulders with her hoofs while hugging him.

Nurse Redheart was very satisfied about how Fluttershy cared for the boy so much, “I see he’s very healthy, ma’am.” Fluttershy nodded and then continued the hug with her son. “Am I allowed to hold him?” Fluttershy asked. Nurse Redheart nodded, “Now I’ll let you all get acquainted with while I get the release forms signed.” They all nodded, and then Fluttershy carefully lifted him up from underneath both his legs, picking him up off from the bed, and then she gently sat him down onto her lap to let him get comfy in the crook of her cradling foreleg, until the softness of her warm fur made him feel safe and cozy while he softly rested his head on her chest.

“Oh, Momma. I’m sorry those mean bug ponies took me,” Thomas said as he began to calm his sobbing while looking into her greenish blue eyes. “Oh my baby boy. Momma missed you so much, and it’s not your fault you were taken away, except for that horrible Queen Chrysalis. I promise that I will never let anything bad happen to you again,” she said, until she gave him a soft kiss on the forehead, and hugged him again while the small boy heard her heartbeat. “Fluttershy? Is he awake?” a voice said. She turned around and saw Princess Celestia and Luna standing there, and the Crusaders were standing there as well. “Thomas! You’re okay!” The girls said in unison. “We missed you so much, little brother,” Sweetie Belle said. “I missed you too, big sisters,” Thomas said.

“Princess Luna, Princess Celestia, why was Queen Chrysalis mean?” Thomas asked. “I do not know, my dear sweet little Thomas. But during the wedding of Cadance and Shining Armor, we have learned that the changelings have fed on the love of many ponies,” Princess Celestia said. “But with the help of one of them, who possessed a kind heart, and with the help of your aunts, they helped save you and the changelings reformed themselves, but we fear we have not seen the last of Chrysalis,” Princess Luna said. Thomas nodded in understanding, and then hugged Princess Luna’s foreleg.

“Ahem!” a voice said. It was Cadance and Shining Armor, along with Flurry Heart, who was excited to see her big cousin. “Princess Cadance! Shining Armor!” Thomas said as he reached out for a hug. Princess Cadance then walked over to him sitting on his mother’s lap. “Hello, sweetheart. We’re glad you’re doing okay,” Cadance said, after she nuzzled the top of his head and hugged him back as he hugged one of her forelegs. “And we’re glad that you’re safe,” Shining Armor said. Flurry flew over to Thomas for a hug. “Wow! She’s gotten so big!” Thomas said, then gave the baby another warm hug, and then held her.

“Thomas?” a male voice said. Thomas looked and saw Thorax and some of the reformed changelings with him. “I know you said leave the Changeling Kingdom to the changelings, but I actually thought about coming to see how he was doing,” Thorax said. “Oh, he’s doing well, darling,” Rarity said, giving her nephew a kiss on the top of his head. “Thomas? My name is Thorax, and I was the one changeling who helped your mom and aunts save you from Chrysalis, and these changelings said they’re sorry for what they did and ask for your forgiveness,” Thorax said. “It’s okay, Thorax. I forgive you and the other changelings. Can I visit there next time?” Thorax nodded, and then he went back to the kingdom with his drones.

“Momma?” Thomas asked. “Yes, sweetie?” Fluttershy asked. “I didn’t mean to make you feel worried when they took me, but I just want you to know... I love you, Momma,” Thomas said, as he hugged his mother one more time. Fluttershy then felt tears stinging her eyes, and then hugged her little colt back, “Momma loves you too, my precious baby boy. My sweet little Thomas.” The others went over to join them for a group hug, and then Thomas suddenly felt happy that he was finally safe with his family again.