“So, what do you think?” Thorax asked, gesturing up to a six times scale sculpture of his mother.
Chrysalis looked at the effigy with a raised brow as it looked back down at her with crooked eyes and a gnarled smile. “Looking back… I think I might have dropped your egg before you hatched.”
Thorax glanced at her sourly. “It isn’t that bad.” He insisted. “Besides, this is Mandible’s first whack at rock sculpting.” He smiled over at the smocked Changeling beside him.
“It’s looking in two different directions,” She noted. “And my flank is not that big.”
“Ehhh…” Mandible wiggled his hoof, skittering off as Chrysalis scowled down at him.
“Well, I remembered before that you said when you conquered Equestria you were going to build statues of yourself.” Thorax recalled. “In celebration of your continued… not doing that,” He smiled. “I figured it’d be nice for you to finally have one.”
Chrysalis sighed with a light smile. “It is a grand gesture, Thorax. Thank you.”
“You're welcome, mom.” Thorax beamed. “So, I know you just got back and I’m sure you want to relax, but I’ve got a letter for you from Celestia.”
“Is that so?” Chrysalis hummed in suspicion. “Let me see it.”
“Sure, I’ve got it next to the throne.” Thorax led her back to his throne and hurriedly fetched the letter.
Chrysalis took it up in her magic and ripped it open, unfolding the parchment within and reading its contents. “It is a summons to speak with me.”
“About what?” Thorax stood at her side and looked at the letter.
“It doesn’t say,” She folded it up and returned it to the envelope. “Celestia does love her suspense.”
“Let’s go then,” Thorax said eagerly. “I'll have Pharynx run things till we get back."
“Fine,” Chrysalis nodded. “No rest for the weary.”
After checking out with his brother, the two of them embarked on the flight to Canterlot, Thorax speculating what Celestia could want to speak to her about. Even though some time had passed, it still felt off to Chrysalis that she could merely tread the world in her own skin. Although the world entire had not completely adjusted to her presence beyond the hive; as she and Thorax walked the cobbled streets of the capitol, stares containing a mixture of curiosity and concern fell her way.
“Hmph, do they think I don’t notice them?” Chrysalis muttered.
“Word about you is still spreading, mom.” Thorax reminded. “It’s going to take some time for every creature to get used to seeing you around. It’ll come in time.”
Chrysalis let out a hard sigh. “So I’ve been told.”
The duo were welcomed into the castle and were in turn led to the banquet hall where Celestia was organizing an upcoming dinner event. She stopped and dismissed her assistant upon noticing her guests, greeting them with a warm smile as always.
“Thorax, Chrysalis, welcome.”
“Good to see you again, Celestia.” Thorax greeted.
“Princess.” Chrysalis lightly nodded.
“I was wondering if my letter had reached you.” Celestia noted.
“I was with Tirek and Cozy Glow,” Chrysalis informed. “I only returned this morning.”
“Oh, how are they doing?” She asked. “I haven’t had the chance to pay them a visit lately.”
“Well enough,” Chrysalis assured. “Tirek has taken to his job at the docks and Scorpan is looking to enroll Cozy Glow in a normal school soon; although she is less than enthusiastic.”
“Still, that is wonderful progress.” Celestia said proudly.
“So, what exactly is it you wish to see me about?” Chrysalis asked, cutting to the chase.
“Well, progress aside, there are still chapters of your past that have yet to be closed.” Celestia began. “I want to make sure that you have the chance to close them; that being said, I wish to ask if you would be willing to travel to the Crystal Empire and make amends with Cadence and Shining Armor.”
Chrysalis grimaced at the suggestion. “That… doesn’t exactly sound like a good idea.”
“Why not?” Thorax asked.
Chrysalis eyed him. “I find it hard to believe that Cadence will ever forgo our past.”
“It is indeed a tender topic for her, even now.” Celestia admitted. “I have not asked her about this yet; I first wanted to see if you would be willing to try. She herself needs to move forward from it as you do, and in spite of how bitter your feelings about one another may be, I think it is important that you two at least agree to leave the past where it lay.”
Chrysalis sighed in retrospective thought. “If I were her… I certainly wouldn’t forgive me.”
“You should at least try,” Thorax encouraged. “Just talking about it all may make you both feel better; even if it’s just a bit, it’s worth it in my opinion.” He gave her an earnest smile. “I’ll go with you if you want.”
Chrysalis let out a long breath through her nose. “I… am not… opposed to the idea… I guess…” She said with fragile optimism.
"Truly?" Celestia asked.
"Well, given that I am certain she will say no... what harm is there in being open to the idea." Chrysalis considered. "I at least get points for that."
"Mom..." Thorax disapprovingly toned.
Celestia laughed at her roundabout acceptance. “I am happy to hear that, I will go to the Crystal Empire and speak with her personally. Hopefully your openness will be rewarded."
"I think we should discuss our philosophies on 'reward'." Chrysalis remarked as she headed for the door. “Let’s go, Thorax.”
“Oh, sure thing mom.” Thorax waved to Celestia. “Looking forward to some good news.”
As they flew home, Chrysalis remained even more silent than usual; the thought of being face to face with Cadence did not sit well with her for a multitude of reasons. Thorax could tell she was troubled, but ultimately decided it would be best to let her think. As soon as they were home, Chrysalis disappeared into the lower chambers to be with the younger Changelings as she often did; Thorax flew back to the throne where his brother still sat.
“There you are,” Pharynx climbed down from the seat. “So, what is all this about?”
“Celestia wants mom to meet with Cadence to try and make peace.” Thorax detailed.
Pharynx let out a sharp exhale at the news. “How did that go?”
“Well, she said she’s willing to,” Thorax noted. “But, I can tell she’s forcing herself.”
“Given how much she hates her, not surprising.” Pharynx shrugged.
“She doesn’t have a reason to hate her anymore.” Thorax insisted.
“You don’t hate anything, you don’t know what she’s feeling.” Pharynx countered.
“Fair point.” He sighed. “But you do, maybe you could talk to her about it?”
“What!?” Pharynx recoiled. “I don’t… talk about things, that’s your hobby.” He reminded. “I’m not any good at that stuff.”
“Neither is she, can’t you at least try?” He asked with wide eyes.
Pharynx rolled his eyes begrudgingly. “Fine, just wipe that pitiful look off your face… you know I hate that.” Under his brother’s smile, Pharynx headed down into the hive; he found his mother in the nursery, aiding in the feeding of the little ones. “So… Thorax told me about what Celestia has in mind.”
“Of course he did.” Chrysalis mumbled.
“I kind of get it,” He stood at her side. “I had to swallow a lot after Thorax took over; brother or not, I thought his ways were ridiculous and I hated them.”
“And you moved past the hate, accepted things and life is better now… I already know where this is going.” She slid her eyes over to him.
“Oh… well, yeah…” He rubbed the back of his head.
“This isn’t just about hate; what happened in Canterlot is far more complicated than that, my… defeat there left a lot of scars.”
“What do you mean?” Pharynx asked.
“I’d rather not do this now,” Chrysalis huffed. “I’ll worry about it if I have to, that remains to be seen.”
Pharynx merely nodded and quietly headed off, pausing at the entrance to the nursery. “Well… Thorax thinks this is all a good idea; and that's something we both agree on." He said surely. "You’ve got our support if and when you want it.”
Chrysalis closed her eyes and sighed. “Thank you.” She returned her attention to the little Changelings around her as Pharynx headed off.
The following dawn, after setting the day in motion, Celestia traveled to the Crystal Empire to see Cadence and Shining Armor. The crystalline city sparkled beneath her as she descended from the sky, making a bee line towards the palace. The guards were quite shocked by the surprise visit and quickly escorted her to the royal family.
“Princess Cadence.” The guard announced as they stepped into throne room. “Princess Celestia has come to see you.”
“Celestia.” Cadence smiled as she rose. “What a surprise, how are you?”
“Good,” Celestia met her at the room’s center. “I apologize for the sudden appearance.”
“Not at all.” She assured.
“How have things been here?” She asked in return. “I heard from Twilight about your meeting with Aurelian and Faye.”
“Oh yes, that too was quite the surprise.” Cadence admitted with a laugh. “But, it was a pleasant one; the two of them are quite the pair.”
“The news about Griffonstone is a testament to that.” Celestia laughed.
“So, what is it that brings you by?”
“Actually, I was hoping to speak with Shining Armor as well.”
“Oh, he’s with Flurry.” Cadence motioned for her to follow. “He’s been playing with her extra hard lately, I think his birthday had him feeling old.” She giggled.
Stepping into Flurry’s nursery, they found Shining Armor with a stuffed toy in his mouth and chasing after his laughing bundle of joy. He screeched to a halt as the Princesses entered and quickly spit it out with a sheepish smile. “Uh… hey honey, Princess Celestia… I was just…”
“Being a good daddy.” Cadence assured, going to him with a kiss.
“Yeah, that.” He grinned.
“Celestia says she wishes to speak to us about something.” Cadence continued. “So what’s going on exactly.”
“Well, as I’m sure you’ve heard, things have been going well for Tirek, Cozy Glow and Chrysalis.” Celestia began. “That being said, I spoke with Chrysalis about perhaps meeting with you two to put the last bits of her past transgressions behind her.” She saw Cadence’s face instantly turn to stone. “I know that…”
“Celestia,” Cadence cut her off. “I… I know a lot has happened lately and honestly… I’m glad things are better. If she wishes to live in her hive in peace that’s fine, but I frankly don’t want her anywhere near my home or my family.” She scooped Flurry up and held her close.
“I understand how traumatic your experience was…”
“No… you don’t,” Cadence shook her head. “Only I know… I’ve seen everything that she is more intimately than any other creature and no amount of atonement is going to undo what she did to us.”
“Cadence,” Shining Armor stepped in. “For your own peace of mind… maybe this isn’t a bad idea.”
“How can you say that?” Cadence looked at him in disbelief. “She brainwashed you and she… “ She couldn't bring herself to finish.
“I know,” He nodded. “What happened hasn’t left me either, but look at what just mentioning her did to you. Getting closure on our end would be good for us too.”
“I am not asking you to be her friend,” Celestia added. “Nor am I asking you to even forgive her; all I am asking is that you see for yourself what she has become and at least acknowledge her effort to live peacefully.” She looked to her understandingly. “I know this is a lot to ask; but Chrysalis, in her own way, has said she is willing. So please think about it and contact me with your answer.”
Cadence looked down at her smiling daughter with a burdened sigh. “Alright, I will.”
“Thank you,” Celestia’s horn lit up. “It was good to see you both again, be well.” With that, she vanished in a magical burst.
Cadence let out a long breath as Shining Armor put his foreleg around her. “I’m sorry, I know that I should be more open to this but…”
“It’s alright,” Shining Armor kissed the top of her head. “No one blames you for how you feel, I know this is hard for you; it is for me too but… I think that’s why this is so important. I don’t want this cloud hanging over our family for the rest of our lives.”
“I don’t either.” She set Flurry down and she immediately began getting into her toys.
“Listen, I’ll take Flurry for the rest of the day.” Shining Armor plopped onto the floor beside his daughter. “Give this some serious thought, take all the time you need.”
Cadence smiled. “Alright,” She bent down and kissed his nose. “Thank you.”
“Sure thing, hon.” He took up a toy and engaged his little girl in plush combat as Cadence went to think on what Celestia had presented her with.
Two days passed with the prospects of what may or may not happen rattling around in Chrysalis’ head. She sat in the nursery of the hive, staring at the young Changelings and their caretakers while the events of the wedding played out over and over in her mind. She barely registered her name being spoken as she sat, only looking over after a jarring second call.
“Pharynx?” Her glazed over eyes focused in on him. “What is it?”
“Celestia is here.”
“I see,” She nodded. “Very well.” Chrysalis followed him back up and out into the courtyard where Celestia and Thorax awaited.
“Chrysalis,” Celestia greeted. “Cadence and Shining Armor have agreed to meet with you.”
Chrysalis was certain that she would refuse, the news of the opposite bringing her great pause. “That… is unexpected.”
“But great news.” Thorax added, frowning at the lack of agreement on his mother’s face. “Right?”
“Chrysalis,” Celestia went to her. “When I spoke to Cadence she had great reservations about this, as I have no doubt you do; but as I told her, this is about finding closure for both of you. Whatever happens, no matter how small, is an achievement and do not feel you need to go beyond that.”
“I’ll be there too.” Thorax reminded.
“Yes… I know.” Chrysalis nodded.
“Then I hope for good news from you both,” Celestia spread her wings. “Till then.” She leapt into the air and began her trip back.
Chrysalis made a light chuckle. “So she agreed after all.”
“That’s a good sign,” Thorax noted. “It means that she wants to put the past behind her too.”
“The past is always behind you,” Pharynx stepped in. “But something about it is staying in the present; you never really talked to us about it and you keep avoiding it even now.”
Chrysalis eyed him shallowly. “For her, it isn’t about the attack… it’s about what I did to them personally; and for me, it isn’t what I did but why I did it.” Her gaze lowered to the ground. “I took something from them that even my defeat couldn’t return. In turn, that defeat… hurt; it hurt in ways I wasn't prepared for.”
“Even now?” Thorax asked meekly.
“Now more than ever.” She looked to him.
“Well,” Pharynx lifted his hoof in consideration. “Hopefully this will make it go away.” He started heading back inside. “We don’t want to see you hurting anymore. I’ll take care of things till you get back.”
Thorax watched him off with an impressed smile. “Wow, that’s the nicest thing he’s ever said.” He smiled at Chrysalis. “And he’s right, so let’s go.”
Chrysalis slowly nodded and they went to prepare for the trip. Knowing she'd want some peace, Thorax transformed into a huge dragon and carried her on his back so she could mentally and emotionally prepare without disturbance. She nestled between his shoulders, watching the terrain roll by as the wind maintained a peaceful white noise in her ears. Her body began to chill as they moved forward north, a subtle but sure sign that they were nearing their destination and Chrysalis actually began to feel a heavy anxiousness chew away at her typically steel nerves.
"Mom?" Thorax swung his neck back to see her. "I can see it from here, won't be long now."
"Right." She nodded, feeling him begin to descend.
Arriving at the Crystal Empire brought a stronger mix of emotions to Chrysalis than she had predicted. Her infamy clearing preceding her, she remained silent as she and Thorax made their way towards the palace as even though news of her relative reform had spread, the Crystal Ponies still bore worry in their eyes as they watched her walk through their streets. Thorax kept checking her face, trying to see if anything was registering but she stayed stoic. The pair were met by the royal guards at the gate and proceeded via escort. The palace had been emptied for the day with no creature inside except a skeleton crew and the royal family. Making their way towards the meeting hall, they were shown through the massive double doors and finally came face to face with the couple. Cadence visibly tensed as soon as Chrysalis appeared and Shining Armor was quick to lay a calming hoof over hers.
“Chrysalis,” Cadence finally spoke.
“Cadence,” Chrysalis acknowledged. “It’s… been awhile.”
“Thank you for having us here,” Thorax added, hoping to ease the tension in the room.
“Of course,” Shining Armor smiled. “Please, have a seat. Refreshments are on the way.”
The four of them sat across from one another, neither Cadence nor Chrysalis breaking eye contact the entire time.
“Well,” Thorax began. “I guess there is no easy way into this, so the best thing to do is just speak your mind, Princess.”
Cadence sighed through her nose. “This is a reunion I never intended on having,” She began solemnly. “I’d have been perfectly happy to go the rest of my life without seeing your face ever again. But, my friends and family have a point about the lasting effect what you’ve done has had on me.” She laid her hoof to her chest. “I hate this feeling… as the Princess of love you have no idea how much it hurts to have this… this anger inside of me that I can’t get rid of; and it isn’t just about your attack on us… it’s what you did to Shining Armor and I on what was supposed to be the happiest day of our lives.” She moved her hoof to point at Chrysalis. “You stole that moment from us; and even though we were able to celebrate our love it didn’t remove the stain you left on it. And worst of all, knowing that you… dared to lay your hooves on Shining Armor like you did…” Her face scrunched in bitterness and she stopped herself. “I know things are different now, I’ve been told that a dozen times and if you’ve truly amended yourself than at the very least I’d like to think you could apologize.”
The room was left starkly silent at her powerful words. Thorax slowly nodded and looked to Chrysalis. “Fair enough. Mom, go ahead and say what you have to.”
Chrysalis let out a sigh of equal measure. “I’m not going to pretend that anything I say will suffice for you,” She started. “I will continue to speak with my actions; that being said, for what it is worth… I apologize for what I did to the two of you. I’ve been without my anger for a while now and it surprises even me how much... clearer things seem." She nodded in reflection. "When we last crossed, I was consumed with anger at the world and a drive only to see it bent to my will; my will no longer lies in that place, I have chosen to merely live as peacefully as I can with the family I have been fortunate enough to reclaim.” She looked to Cadence with hard but sincere eyes. “I’m well aware I don’t deserve that chance and even though you may not believe me, everything I have done in life stays heavy in the back of my mind while I continue this new path forward.”
Shining Armor was actually surprised by the difference in her, he looked over at Cadence and offered a supportive smile. “Honey, that sounded pretty sincere to me.”
“Yes,” Cadence nodded. “It does. Thank you, Chrysalis.” She gazed at her sternly. “Still, you are right; I hope to see for myself how committed you are to leading this new life. In the meantime, I welcome you as a guest in my home.”
Chrysalis slowly nodded. “Appreciated.”
A welcome intermission arrived as the server entered with their drinks; he dolled out glasses under the intense silence of the room, leaving with an uncomfortable cough as he excused himself.
Shining Armor lifted his glass with magic and looked at his old enemy in interest. “So, how are you finding things back with the Changelings? It must be a huge difference.”
“Thorax has done well in leading them,” Chrysalis commended. “While I don’t find all his endeavors as endearing as he does, I do not deny that life for my brood has improved.”
“Mom has been great with the young ones.” Thorax added. “They’re really starting to look up to her.”
“Likely because I actually teach them tools for survival and not just… songs and craft projects.” Chrysalis amended.
“She doesn’t like singing.” Thorax noted.
“Well, as long as that’s all you’re teaching them.” Cadence said with some suspect.
“I may not be past all my… issues, but I keep them to myself.” Chrysalis stoutly countered. “Thank you for the insinuation though.” She added bitterly.
Shining Armor felt that they were both at their limit for the moment and quickly intervened. “How about a little break,” He suggested. “I’ll have the guards show you to your rooms so you can get settled in and we can speak more later.”
“Good idea,” Thorax caught on and immediately concurred as one of the guards on the opposite side of the door was summoned. “Come on, mom.”
Chrysalis quietly stood and followed the guard from the room with Thorax at her side; as the doors closed, Shining Armor went to Cadence who lowered her head weakly.
“That was good, honey.” He rested his head against hers. “I’m proud of you.”
“Thank you,” She muttered. “I knew seeing her was going to be hard but…” She shook her head in frustration.
“It’s alright,” He consoled. “I know… we all do, don’t worry; this is going to be one small step at a time and there is nothing wrong with that.” He guided her up from her seat. “Why don’t you rest for a while too.”
“Okay,” She quietly smiled, seeing how hard he was trying. “I love you.”
“I love you too,” He gently kissed her. “Come on.” He walked with her from the room to get her back to their own chambers.
On the opposite side of the palace, Chrysalis and Thorax were shown their side by side accommodations; Thorax followed his mother into her room and watched her sullenly as she made her way to bed with an exhausted sigh.
“That was pretty intense,” He admitted as he sat on the floor. “Are you okay?”
“I am fine.” Chrysalis said in monotone. “I don’t have any arguments against what she said.”
“Yeah… about that,” Thorax rubbed his neck uncomfortably. “What she said about Shining Armor… you didn’t really… I mean… did you?”
“Did I bed him?” She looked at him sharply. “No, I did not; at least… not entirely. It is complicated and not something I wish to discuss, let alone with you.” She made a regretful groan as she watched him shrink. “Please Thorax, just let me rest right now.”
“Okay, mom.” He nodded and left her be for the time being.
Not much rest was had by either Cadence or Chrysalis as their minds wrestled with their encounter with one another; and soon enough it was already evening and Shining Armor had seen to it that they could reconvene over dinner. The four of them sat in the main dining room, servers bringing in their meals and pouring their drinks.
“So,” Shining Armor began, looking to break the still lingering tension. “We heard that your encounter with Aurelian is what started all this; what exactly happened?”
Chrysalis thought back to the fated meeting. “Tirek, Cozy Glow and I first came across him while exploring the deeper recesses of Tartarus and he freed us after a lengthy but no less Impactful lecture. I returned to Tartarus not long after to try and coax him to aid me but he laid me bare with only his words.” She looked down into her glass at her reflection in the water. “I learned of my own history; the full story of the Changelings and my ancestry. I learned my own brood was born from love of all things, and that our desire to consume it stemmed from a biological anomaly.”
Cadence’s curiosity was actually piqued by the information. “An anomaly?”
“The Changelings as you know them, as I am, are crossbreeds between the original Changeling species and a Unicorn. It was a love story that defied the conventions of their time and they were hunted down for it; but they survived and their offspring eventually lived on while the originals died out.” She looked across at Cadence. “Long story short, Aurelian showed me that while Thorax and the Changelings had evolved without me, that did not mean I was no longer a part of their family. He showed me that I was wasting my time trying to bend the world to my own will and that I should value the parts of the world I do have.” Her eyes drifted over to her son. “So I returned to the hive, only fully becoming a part of it again after Thorax extended his hoof to me as family.”
“That’s a heck of a story.” Shining Armor confessed. “We got the chance to meet Aurelian and Faye a while ago; they’re certainly something. He’s scary, but there’s a lot of wisdom behind it all.” He offered her a sincere smile. "I'm glad that wisdom was able to help you."
"As am I." Chrysalis agreed with a shallow nod.
Thorax piped up, wanting to keep the ball rolling. "Speaking of family," He began. “How’s little Flurry doing?”
“As much a hoof full as ever,” Cadence detailed. “Given the situation, we asked Sunburst to foal sit for a day."
“I imagine one is far easier than one thousand.” Chrysalis noted.
Cadence glanced over at her. “I’d agree, if she wasn’t an Alicorn. Her budding magic is just as much a hoof full as she is; despite her age, we’ve been trying to show her when it is and isn’t appropriate to use it.” She paused and offered Chrysalis an apologetic look. “I didn’t mean to insinuate anything before; it seems the bond of family is what was finally able to reach you and as a fellow mother, I know how much the love of your children must mean to you.”
Chrysalis was actually taken aback by her words. “Yes, well… it can be overbearing sometimes,” She laughed as she glanced over at Thorax. “But yes, it is something quite valuable.”
Cadence realized that her anxiety had finally began to calm. “I guess motherhood is a good place for us to find some common ground.”
Shining Armor smiled over at Thorax who was just as pleased to see some progress being made. Things quieted as the quartet enjoyed their meal, Thorax commanded most of the conversation as he detailed all that was going on back at the hive which gave Cadence and Chrysalis the chance to chime in here and there and take things slow. With their stomachs full they retired for the evening; Shining Armor was quick to take Cadence’s hoof as they returned to their bed chamber.
“That was great honey, how are you feeling?” He asked.
“Okay,” Cadence climbed up onto the bed. “It’s funny, I’ve always seen her as a monster without redemption; but hearing her talk about what she learned about her past and how much she came to value her family… I don’t know, it made me realize that underneath it all she’s just a mare.” She sighed lightly. “I still feel my anger towards her, but I understand her a bit more now; for whatever that’s worth.”
“It’s worth a lot,” Shining Armor sat beside her. “I know how you feel about seeing her differently. I honesty can’t believe that’s the same Chrysalis.” He took her cheek. “Just seeing some of that anxiousness and panic leave you tonight was a blessing as far as I’m concerned.”
“I do feel a bit lighter.” She smiled, gazing into his eyes. “Thank you for being so strong in all this; I honestly couldn’t have done this without you.”
“For better or worse, in sickness and in health remember?” He asked with a grin.
“Always.” Cadence nodded as she deeply kissed him.
Chrysalis was awoken the following morning by knocks on her door. With a heavy grumble, she staggered over to the door and pulled it back to see her bright eyed son smiling at her.
“Morning, mom. How’d you sleep?”
“Wonderful, isn’t that obvious?” She scowled, bags under her eyes from a restless night.
“Oh,” He caught on quickly. “Is it the unfamiliar room?”
“Among other things,” She muttered, following him out into the hall. “Let’s just get on with the day.”
“That’s the spirit.” Thorax supportively announced. They walked the palace, heading out to the front courtyard and finding Cadence and Shining Armor being reunited with their daughter as a worn out Sunburst dropped her off. “Morning everyone.” Thorax cheerily greeted as they moved to join them.
“Oh, good morning.” Shining Armor greeted in return.
“Hey Sunburst, long time no see.” Thorax waved.
“Thorax, good to see you and… um…” Sunburst paused as Chrysalis eyed him. “You too… Ms. Chrysalis.”
“Chrysalis is fine.” Chrysalis countered. Cadence reflexively used her magic to pull Flurry Heart safely into her hooves, something that Chrysalis noticed but chose to ignore.
“So, what’s on the agenda for today?” Thorax continued.
“Actually, we’re having a bit of a social event tonight.” Shining Armor informed.
“Wow, really?” Thorax looked to Cadence.
“Ah, yes.” Cadence nodded. “A semi-formal party on behalf of a recent trade expansion agreement. Several diplomats from Mt. Aris and Griffonstone will be attending as well as Prince Rutherford and Princess Ember.”
“Ember?” Thorax perked at the name.
“Down, Thorax.” Chrysalis eyed him.
“You’re more than welcome to join us for the occasion.” Shining Armor offered.
“We’d be honored, right mom?” Thorax glanced over to see a hesitant look on her face.
“Hmph, I thought you wanted it to be a party?” She asked flippantly. “I don’t think my presence there would put many at ease.”
Cadence noticed a sadness in Chrysalis’ eyes as her own self-deprecating remark. She looked down at Flurry, noticing how tightly she was holding onto her and realizing she was letting her fear affect her again. “No, you are our guest just as much as they are." She countered. "Don’t feel you must hide yourself from the public.”
Shining Armor smiled at hearing that from her. “Yeah, that isn’t what the Crystal Empire is about.”
Chrysalis looked at him unsurely but slowly nodded. “Very well… we… will attend. Thank you.”
“You coming too, Sunburst?” Thorax asked.
“Naw, I’m actually heading to Ponyville to visit Starlight and Trixie.” He relayed.
“Oh, tell them I said hi.” Thorax requested.
“Sure thing,” Sunburst waved as he started off. “Take care, everyone.”
“You too.” Shining Armor called back. “Well, since we’re all up now, how about breakfast? We’ve got a lot of last minute work to do before tonight.”
“Sounds great,” Thorax nodded. “And if we can help with the set up, just let us know.”
“Oh, that’d be nice, but…” Shining Armor glanced over at Chrysalis.
“It’s fine,” She assured. “I’ve grown used to him volunteering me for things.”
With the evening’s events as a goal, the day was very straightforward; things were a lot busier however and Chrysalis’ presence in the palace went far from unnoticed. As hard as her exterior was most of the time, Thorax could tell that the looks and hushed tones were starting the pile up in her mind. They stayed with the royal couple throughout the afternoon with Shining Armor and Thorax continuing to act as the bridge between whatever interactions Chrysalis and Cadence had. While the dialogue was at a minimum, it was peaceful which was more than enough for the time being. It was well into the afternoon when the first guests began to arrive; Cadence and Shining Armor excused themselves to start greeting everyone leaving Thorax and Chrysalis to start enjoying the fruits of the day’s labor.
“Mmm,” Thorax muttered through a mouthful of exotic cheese. “You should try this.”
“Stop stuffing your face,” Chrysalis narrowed her eyes. “You represent the Changeling hive, show some refinement.”
“Don’t be like that,” He swallowed the mouthful. “This is a party after all, try and enjoy yourself.” His smile lessened as she remained stoic. “Look, I know you’re not exactly comfortable out in the open like this.”
“You think I’m scared to be…”
“Mom…” He cut her off, eyes deeply sympathetic. “It’s okay. Is everyone happy you’re here? No, but that doesn’t matter. Don’t let them make you feel you have to hide or act differently." His chest puffed out. "Besides, I’m ruler of the Changelings and you’re my mom; if they have a problem with you they can take it up with me.” He said stoutly.
Chrysalis saw a deep conviction in her son’s eyes and smiled. “Mothers are supposed to be the ones giving their children the advice.”
“Say’s who?” He smiled again, offering her cheese.
Chrysalis took the hors d'oeuvre with a light nod. “Thank you.”
Thorax stayed close at her side as they walked about and enjoyed the night’s budding festivity. The large ball room began to fill up more and more and to Chrysalis’ surprise her being there didn’t disrupt anything. Curious visitors from neighboring nations approached them, having heard the rapidly spreading stories about Aurelian and his friends as well as she and Tirek’s battle against Cozy Glow to help protect Equestria. Chrysalis began to lower her guard more which worked out for Thorax as his attention was pulled by the arrival of Ember and her entourage.
“Oh, Ember’s finally here.” Thorax noted with excitement; he looked back at Chrysalis who was staring back with a raised brow. “Will you be alright for a bit if I go say hi?”
“Go on,” She waved him off. “I will be fine.” She shook her head with light laugh as he quickly galloped away. She started back towards the food until a faint but distinct sound caught her ear. She looked about, not seeing Cadence or Shining Armor close by and with her son already gone she decided to investigate by herself.
“Hey, Ember.” Thorax came to a halt before her.
“Oh, Thorax, you’re here too?”
“Yeah,” He nodded. “Mom and I were invited here earlier so that hopefully she and Cadence could start working through their past differences.”
“That sounds… like a pretty heavy deal.” She noted.
“Uh huh, but it’s been going pretty well so far.”
“Good to hear,” She looked back and forth at her fellow dragons. “Alright, this may be a party but it’s a pony party; do anything to embarrass me and I’ll ship you off to Yakyakistan.” She sternly toned.
“Yes, Princess Ember.” They answered in unison.
“Go on then, and don’t eat the crystal walls; turns out that’s not what they're for.” She added as they dispersed.
“So, how are things in the Dragon Lands?” Thorax asked.
“Better than ever,” She answered as they started walking. “Aestus has taught us so much; everyone feels like a brand new dragon. Plus, now that we can mold the landscape, we’ve built all kinds of new things.”
“Amazing,” Thorax beamed. "I’ll have to come visit and see for myself sometime.” He glanced over at the dance floor. “So… um… would you like to dance?”
“Food first, I’m starving.” Ember pointed over to the buffet, risking her eye up at him and elbowing his shoulder. “Then we can dance.”
With the final guests having arrived, Cadence and Shining Armor were finally able to come back to the party. Shining Armor took her over to the refreshment table and poured them both a glass of sparkling punch. He passed a glass from his magical hold to hers and smiled as she immediately downed the beverage. “Ha, still have your voice after all that?” He asked, sipping his own.
“Absolutely,” Cadence chuckled. “I won’t cry if I get to take a break though.”
“We can wallflower it up for a while,” Shining Armor offered. “We should check back in with Thorax and Chrysalis; I didn’t think we’d have to leave them for so long.”
“Right,” Cadence nodded, scanning the room for them. She eventually spied Thorax with Ember but saw no sign of the Changeling matriarch. “Thorax?” Cadence called as they headed over.
“Oh, hi guys.” Thorax waved. “Finally done out there?”
“Yes,” Cadence nodded. “Where is Chrysalis?”
“Oh, I left her for a bit; she said she’d be okay on her own for a while.” He recalled. “I haven’t seen her around though.” He glanced about.
“I didn’t see her outside.” Ember added.
Cadence’s face washed over with a sudden worry as she looked back at the north hall. “Flurry…”
“What?” Shining reached for her shoulder but she quickly started off for the rear of the palace. “Hey.” He took off after her and followed through the north hall and down towards the nursery; he quickly realized what was wrong and sped up to catch her. Cadence rounded the doorway and felt her heart stop as she saw Chrysalis standing over Flurry’s crib with her teeth barred; her horn instantly lit up but she stopped as she heard Flurry giggling her head off.
“Cadence.” Shining Armor skidded to a stop and looked in to see what she was staring at.
Chrysalis slipped her tongue out and growled, more laughter following; she made progressively worse faces much to the delight of the little Alicorn.
“Chrysalis?” Cadence stepped in fully.
“Ah!” Chrysalis jumped back from the crib, cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I…” She coughed and composed herself. “I heard her crying. You two were nowhere to be found and Thorax had gone, so I came to check on her.” She noticed the residual magic about her horn. “I suppose you think I came to harm her.” She started for the door to head past them. “You can take it from here.”
“Chrysalis,” Cadence stopped her. “Thank you.” She reached up and touched her horn. “I… admit I got scared; but I shouldn’t have. I’m sorry.”
“Understandable, all things considered.” Chrysalis made a half-hearted laugh. They turned back as they heard fussing from the crib; Flurry was standing up and leaning over the railing, reaching her hooves out for Chrysalis.
“Oh, looks like you’ve got a fan.” Shining Armor noted as he magically lifted her from the bed and brought her to his hooves; Flurry pointed at Chrysalis and laughed as she popped herself from her father’s arms and landed on her back, making scary faces and growling like Chrysalis was.
Cadence smiled as Chrysalis hesitated greatly at the display of affection. “Well, it does make sense; she loves to be scared and frankly… I’m not really good at that.”
“Yeah,” Shining Armor laughed. “She loves bears and playing monster, typical little girl right? We bought her a tea set and she used the cups and pot to build a fort.”
Chrysalis reached back and took Flurry up in her foreleg. “If there is one thing Thorax has taught me, it's that having a child grow up so vastly different from you… can be a blessing.” She extended her back to Cadence who took her up in her magic and held her close.
“Is everything alright?” Thorax asked as he and Ember appeared beyond the doorway.
“Yes,” Cadence nodded. “Sorry to worry you like that; Flurry woke up early and upset, Chrysalis came to see to her.”
“Hey, how about we get back to the party.” Shining Armor suggested. “We are the hosts after all.”
“I’ll stay with Flurry,” Cadence took her back to the crib. “Till she goes back to sleep, you all go on ahead.”
“Okay, hon.” Shining Armor nodded as he and the others filed back out and down the hall.
The remainder of the night went well and thoroughly exhausted from the long day, everyone unceremoniously went to bed early. Chrysalis, however, awoke in the middle of the night. She sighed as she once again fell victim to her mind so full of conflicting thoughts. With no immediate return to sleep in sight, she left her room, heading out into the hallway and down towards one of the main corridors. The high windows offered streams of moonlight that dimly lit the path towards the grand entrance; rounding the last corner, she stepped out into the shadow of the main stairwell and paused as she realized she was not alone. Cadence loitered near the base of the stairs, she too paused as she saw Chrysalis across the room. They looked at each other, neither sure what they should do as both were too taken by surprise.
“Small palace.” Chrysalis finally said.
“It can be at times.” Cadence noted.
“I’ll just… go this way.” Chrysalis turned back and started off.
“Wait,” Cadence stopped her, slowly approaching as she turned back. “Trouble sleeping as well?”
“Is that surprising?”
“Not really.” Cadence shook her head; she looked up at the grand bay window and out at the moon, letting out a long breath. “Shining says to take things slow; but small talk isn’t going to bring either of us any real peace. The fact that we’re both standing here now makes that clear.”
Chrysalis held her hoof up questioningly. “I don’t know what to say.” She confessed. “Thorax keeps telling me to just be open and honest… like it’s easy. What am I supposed to say?” She quickly glanced over at Cadence after she heard a faint laugh. “Is that funny?”
“After all the grand speeches you gave me about how you were going to ruin me and rule the world, it just feels odd to see you at a loss for words.” Cadence gave her a light smile.
“Ha,” Chrysalis actually laughed at the idea. “I suppose it would.”
Cadence pushed aside her lingering ill feelings for the sake of curiosity. “Can you just tell me one thing?”
“What?”
“Why?” She asked honestly. “Why me? You could have mounted an assault against Canterlot at any time in any number of ways, but you chose to come after me and Shining Armor.”
Chrysalis held her eyes on her for a long minute before conceding to answer. “When I first learned about you, I saw an opportunity to infiltrate and take control of the city. On top of that, given the nature of your magic, I planned on using you as a perpetual food source for my hive.” Her eyes softened. “At least, that was what I kept reminding myself was the plan.”
“What do you mean?” Cadence asked, ignoring the initial horror of hearing the full breadth of her intent for her.
Chrysalis hesitated, her mind and heart accessing thoughts and feelings that she typically went out of her way to suppress. “Do you have any idea what it feels like to be a creature that feeds on love… literally needing it to live, and yet living in a world where you are incapable of being loved?” Her eyes revealed the hurt she felt at even having to discuss the topic. “You don’t, because your magic creates love.” A dry laugh left her. “You’re practically my opposite, I suppose that’s why I fixated on you… to answer your question; I saw you as some kind of mockery, as if life itself had crafted you just to denounce me.” Her face hardened as the shame of her former life came pouring back. “I wanted to hurt you… I wanted to make you suffer for being… for being everything that I wasn’t.”
Hearing that struck Cadence in a number of ways. “Chrysalis…”
“Walking around in your skin…” She continued. “It was sickening how beloved you were; but as much as I hated admitting it… it felt… nice.” Her voice grew shallow. “Especially when he looked at me.”
“He?” Cadence questioned. “You mean Shining Armor.”
“Yes,” Chrysalis nodded. “I’ve never felt love like that; the way he smiled at me… the way he held my hoof, the way he…kissed me.” She could feel Cadence harden at the mere mention of the fact. “But all at once my anger would return, because I knew it wasn’t me he was expressing this love to; it was you.” She sighed. “I kept telling myself I wasn’t falling for him, that it was all an act but…” She shook her head. “It wasn’t real anyway; it doesn’t matter.” She offered Cadence a genuinely apologetic look. “I know that’s the real reason you can’t forgive me and… I accept that; now, in all my newfound clarity, I know just how horrible and monstrous I was back then. I don’t quite forgive myself for any of it either.” She looked back towards the hall. “The fact that Thorax can know all my misdeeds and still call me mother… I don’t deserve that either. For all everyone’s talk about moving forward, I think that’s what makes it the hardest; knowing deep down that I don’t really deserve any of it.”
For all the old wounds that had just been opened up, Cadence found herself unable to respond with anger. She wasn’t looking at the dread Queen of the Changelings, would-be conqueror and stalwart villain of Equestria; she was looking at a mare, a mare that was hurting and as troubled by past events as she herself was. Furthermore she was looking at a mother who didn’t believe she deserved the love of her own children. Cadence walked up to her and laid her hoof to her shoulder, causing her to quickly look up into her eyes.
“I forgive you.” She softly whispered.
“What?”
“These last days have shown that you’re truly serious about all this; about moving on from the past and forward with your family. I believe you… and I forgive you.” Cadence smiled gently. “Shining Armor said he doesn’t want this cloud hanging over us for the rest of our lives and he’s right, we don’t need that… and neither do you. What was done was horrible, but it’s done; let’s move on so we can both be there for our children free from this pain.”
Chrysalis felt something leave her as Cadence spoke those words, something that had been gnawing at her mind and heart ever since she returned to the hive. The feeling of that weight lifting brought a dampness to her eyes that she could not control. “Thank you.” She finally muttered.
Shining Armor woke up alone in bed; usually the first one up due to his military regimen, he quickly rose and began looking for Cadence. He hurried from the master suite and headed downstairs, halting in shock as he saw Cadence and Chrysalis resting at the bottom of the stairwell side by side. They turned back at the sound of his harried hoof steps, Cadence smiling up at him.
“Cadence… Chrysalis, you…”He stammered.
“It’s okay, dear.” Cadence assured. “I’m fine,” She glanced over at Chrysalis. “We both are.”
“I woke up and you were gone.” He detailed.
“Oh, is it morning already?” Cadence looked to the high windows, morning light beginning to shine through. “We’ve been sitting here for some time now.”
“I can never tell what time it is in the hive anyway.” Chrysalis shrugged.
Cadence saw the struggle on her husband’s face and waved him closer. “You were right, Shining. I feel so much lighter now, I can’t tell you how good it feels to finally let go of that blackness that’s been sitting inside me all this time.”
“So… you two are… okay with each other?” Shining asked cautiously.
“More or less,” Chrysalis answered. “Don’t expect to see us braiding each others’ manes anytime soon though.” Shining Armor sat with them as the two mares laughed together at the idea.
“We have more in common than we thought,” Cadence continued. “After all this, I understand her so much more now; and she does me.”
“Mom!” Thorax’s voice echoed from the far hall. “Mom! Where are you!” He galloped out into the main hall and screeched to halt. “Mom?”
“I’m right here,” She shook her head. “Stop yelling.”
“I thought you ran off or something.” He held his chest, catching his breath. “Wait… you’ve been out here with Cadence?”
“Yes,” Chrysalis nodded.
His worry turned to a smile. “That’s wonderful!” He exclaimed.
Cadence laughed. “I hope Flurry still cares this much about me when she’s grown.”
“You think that now…” Chrysalis slid her eyes over to her.
“Hey.” Thorax frowned.
“I’m joking… mostly.” Chrysalis amended.
“Well,” Shining Armor chuckled. “I’m really happy about this; for both of you.”
“Same here,” Thorax added as he sat before Chrysalis. “I’m proud of you, mom.” His smiled widened as she reached up and patted his head appreciatively.
“There is one last thing though,” She stood and faced Shining Armor. “I understood Cadence’s position in this… but you, why were you so… accepting of this? What I did to you, you should have hated me just as much as she… maybe even more so.”
Shining Armor slowly nodded. “Yeah, I suppose I should have. But to me, my love for my family is more important to me than whatever hate I may have felt for you; and I think you know what that’s like now.” He glanced back at Thorax. “Celestia said you agreed to this first; which means that something was more important to you than your anger towards us.”
Chrysalis lightly nodded and looked back at Thorax. “I suppose you’re right.”
Cadence stood as well and took Shining Armor’s hoof. “Can we convince our boys here to make us some breakfast? The palace chef won’t be here for another hour or so.”
“Sure thing, honey.” Shining Armor gently kissed her.
“Yeah, no problem.” Thorax added. “Whatever you two want.”
As the four of them headed towards the kitchen, Cadence glanced over at Chrysalis. “After that, Flurry should be awake; I’m sure she’d love another round of ‘scary face’ with her aunt Chrysalis.”
“A…aunt?” Chrysalis stared at her in disbelief.
“Yes,” Cadence nodded with a smile. “If you don’t mind one more little one?”
“No…” Chrysalis slowly smiled. “Although, I suppose that means you can take Thorax for a while; unlike your daughter, he’d actually use the tea set.”
“Hey!” Thorax narrowed his eyes as the three of them began laughing, ultimately chuckling along as Chrysalis put her hoof around his neck as they walked along.
Author's Note
Just wanted to add a note that if you're seeing bizarre spacing in the format, apparently it is a browser issue.
