My little angel: Archangel Chroniclesby Hydreigon_OmegaChaptersPrologueChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3 - Pt. 1Chapter 3 - Pt. 2PrologueLuna walked down the castle hall a few hours in search of her sister. It had been a number of years after Luna had returned from her banishment, but everytime she thought that she was fully adjusted, there was always something new she did not know about. Despite it already being nighttime, Luna knew that Celestia was still usually awake at this hour. Approaching her sister’s room, Luna knocked on the door. “Who is it?” Celestia asked through the door “Your sister.” Luna replied “Ah, come in.” Luna entered Celestia’s room to see Celestia stargazing from her balcony. Luna had been back long enough to know that Celestia only did this when something was heavy on her mind. A small wooden chest sat opened beside Celestia. Luna knew of its existence and how the last maid who moved it almost lost her life to an angry Celestia, but she was more worried about her sister at this moment. “Celestia, are you alright?” Luna asked, “Is there something on your mind?” “No,” Celestia lied, “everything is fine.” “Celestia, I know you are lying.” Luna said in a monotone voice before it changed back to one of comforting, “I know something is wrong. If you don’t want to tell me, I understand.” “No, I would actually like to talk, it is time that I stop hiding this from you anyways.” Celestia said, “Would you come sit beside me, it would be easier to talk to you this way.” Luna sat beside her sister wanting to hear what was weighing so heavy on Celestia’s heart. As Celestia stayed quiet, trying to think of where to begin her story, Luna noticed what was inside the chest. A small golden crown with an amethyst jewel attached into it, Luna could tell that it was very old because it was really dusty. Normally, the two sisters would exchange their old crowns for a newer one every few generations to keep them from wearing rusty crowns. “Sister, whose crown is that?” Luna asked “It belonged to my son,” Celestia replied, “his name was Mael.” “Did you court somepony in my absence?” Luna surprisely said, “Do tell more.” “No, no I didn’t. I adopted him.” Celestia said, “I haven’t courted somepony in over half a millenia.” “Oh, I...” Luna was a little unsure about what to say “Don’t be sorry, you didn’t know.” Celestia said, “He was always so full of energy and always had a smile on his face. Mael was the type of pony that couldn’t bring himself to harm another creature. But he was a peculiar little colt, when I found him, he was already an alicorn.” “Already an alicorn?” Luna asked, “but somepony being born an alicorn is completely unheard of.” “That’s not even half of it.” Celestia remarked, “Mael had four white wings that contrasted his light beige coat, it was almost comical how small his wings made him look. But as he grew, things became even more apparent just how different he was.” “Like?” “His diet, for example, Mael had no problem eating large portions of meat that would make a normal pony very sick.” Celestia said, “He also had very unique magic, it had supernatural healing properties.” “What happened to him?” “During the experimental alliance called ‘the council of 5,’ the griffons found a loophole in the contract and wanted to experiment on his magic.” Celestia said, “If it hadn’t been for his biological brother showing up, I fear that he would’ve been killed by the griffons.” “You really cared about your son,” Luna said, “but where is he now? I haven’t heard anything about you having a son until now.” “I am not sure.” Celestia's voice became saddened, “After Ludociel, Mael’s brother, managed to scare off the griffons, I was left with two choices. Either I could keep Mael in my care, and risk a griffon assassin attacking him, or I could send him with his brother back to his native land, allowing him to be trained by Ludociel. I can only hope that I made the right decision.” She paused for a moment before returning to stargazing, “I wonder how my son is doing, or if he even still remembers me.” Dread and fear began to overcome the Celestial Realm as the Ten Commandments, along with the Demon King's representative, marched through its capital city. The immense darkness caused by the elite demons was felt throughout the entire realm, sending the people into a state of panic as the Four Archangels and Lady Elizabeth rushed to the capital city. To their surprise no one had been taken hostage, much less harmed. Instead, the ten commandments stood there as Meliodas put on a menacing smirk. “Well well well, look who finally showed their faces.” Meliodas said “What do you want?” Ludociel growled “I have a proposition that will end the holy war.” Meliodas said, “And I think you’ll find that the terms aren’t unreasonable.” “And what would that be?” Ludociel mocked, “You’re going to sacrifice yourself and hand over the demons into captivity for their safety?” “Brother, I don’t think this is some sort of trap they’re trying to lure us into.” Mael said, “We should at least hear them out. The longer this war continues, the more likely it becomes that our own race becomes permanently crippled from this war.” “I agree with Mael on this,” Tarmiel said, “We should at least give them a chance to show us their offer first.” “The sooner we get this war over, the less lives need to be taken.” Sariel added in, “It would be easier to make peace with the demons rather than attempt to eradicate them. Even if that peace is temporary, it would allow others to heal from this war.” Ludociel saw his opinion was outnumbered three to one, possibly even four to one if he counted Lady Elizabeth’s silent vote. Begrudgingly, he decided to listen to Meliodas’s proposal. If it was a waste of his time, Ludociel wouldn’t hesitate to slaughter all of the ten commandments. “Fine. What are your conditions?” Ludociel said through clenched teeth, “I only promise that I will consider them, anything else will not be guaranteed.” “My conditions are simple.” Meliodas said, “I demand Elizabeth’s hand in marriage.” Everyone, even the Ten Commandments were brought back at Meliodas’s demand. The only one who wasn’t stunned was Gowther, who was the only one Meliodas trusted with the knowledge of his relation with Elizabeth. But even he was a little surprised at how up front he was about it. “YOU WANT WHAT!?” Ludociel shouted towards the yellow haired demon “I will not allow you to do such a thing!” Mael said, being equally infuriated as his older brother. “You have no say in this, you are not Elizabeth.” Meliodas said, “As you are very much aware, a goddess being on speaking terms with a demon is shameful in your world. So how much more humiliating would it be if one of your most divine married one? You get the peace you want, while we get to humiliate you one last time. It's a fair trade, wouldn’t you say so?” “I accept your offer.” Elizabeth said The four archangels stood there in shock, she couldn’t have just said that. Not only did Meliodas just explain how humiliating it would be, but her mother could disown her for this. Making her lose all authority she has over the goddess race. “Lady Elizabeth, you can’t be serious.” Tarmiel said, “I’m starting to think this might be a trap.” “If it means bringing an end to this holy war, then I’ll gladly suffer any humiliation awaiting me.” Elizabeth said, “Like Mael said, I don’t think this is a trap, but even if it is, I am more than capable of holding my own against Meliodas.” She flew down in front of Meliodas, and extended a hand towards the head of the Ten commandments. Meliodas looked at her hand then back up at her, he shook Elizabeth’s hand. Both of them silently vowed to start a new era for both demons and goddesses alike. “I look forward to figuring out all the specifics needed for our marriage.” News spread throughout all the realms that the Holy War is being brought to a close. While many rejoiced knowing that the war would soon be over, others started to despise Elizabeth for how she decided to end it. The only thing that stopped the goddess race from going into a civil war was that the four archangels reluctantly sided with Elizabeth over the other side. “Brother, I know how you feel, I hate this as much as you do.” Ludociel said, trying to comfort his brother, “But the war is finally over, so why don’t we go home?” “Home?” Mael asked, “I don’t understand what you mean. This is my home, is it not?” “No, this is my home.” Ludociel said, “You were dragged out of your home and into this war. I know your mother misses you, it's been over 300 years since she’s last seen you.” “Are you saying that we are going to go see her?” “Yes, I am” “Thank you.” Mael gave a hug to his brother before heading to his room to grab something. He went straight to his bookshelf before grabbing a small chest off of its top shelf, it was relatively dusty on the outside after not being touched for a few years. Opening it, he smiled after he saw the contents of it were still intact. Inside was a small worn out plush of a dog, it had several stitches after many decades of loving use. “Mother, please wait for me,” Mael said as he put the chest back on the shelf, “because I am coming home.” Chapter 1Celestia and Luna flew to Ponyville with magical disguises to hide themselves. It was an idea Luna came up with to take a small vacation. While Celestia was opposed to it at the beginning, eventually decided to finally take a break from her princess duties and relax a little in Ponyville. The two of them had a fail safe even if somepony found out about their disguise, they could just say that they were running a social experiment of sorts. Their disguises used illusion and auditory magic to give them the appearance of a normal sized pony. Eventually the two of them found the somewhat recently crowned Princess Twilight, talking with her five friends. Celestia, in her disguise, walked up to her former student with an idea in mind. Her idea wasn’t malicious, some could even call it a prank, but Celestia knew that it would help increase Twilight's self image about being a princess. “Excuse me,” Celestia said while being disguised, “are you princess twilight?” “Why yes I am,” Twilight replied being a little confused after not knowing who that young mare is, “is there something you need?” “Could I have an autograph?” Celestia asked in a mildly timid act “Sure, I wouldn’t mind” Twilight said as she grabbed a piece of paper in her magic. Rainbow Dash teased Twilight, congratulating her for finally gaining her first fan. As Twilight was writing her name on a piece of paper a powerful magic surge flooded the area, making her drop her quil midway through writing the “g” in her name. Calling this magic powerful would’ve been an understatement but she couldn’t think of any other words to describe it. It was so powerful that everypony felt it, not just unicorns that specialized in sensory magic but also earth ponies and pegasi as well, who had almost no connection to magic compared to the unicorn. “Twilight, did you feel that just now?” Rainbow dash asked in a slightly worried tone “I did,” Twilight’s breathing became uneasy Celestia and Luna looked towards each before they removed themselves from the area to find somewhere to safely take off their disguise. When they returned to the area they had left, Celestia and Luna saw that everypony was transfixed at the everfree forest, the place where the magic was spilling out from. Celestia couldn’t shake the feeling that she had felt this magic somewhere before, but where? Mael and the other archangels groaned as their trip here was as smooth as they planned. Normally teleportation wouldn’t be such a difficult feat, but Mael wasn’t surprised that his brother had such a hard time teleporting all four of them to a different dimension. Looking around he saw that his body had returned its pony form. For a few moments Mael was happy, until he realized that neither Sariel or Tarmiel knew what was going on. “AH!” Tarmiel screamed, “Why am I a horse!?” Mael looked at the three headed pony, if the voice wasn't more than enought those three heads were to prove that he is Tarmiel. While he maintained his original hair colors and eye colors for each head, his fur was a golden brown color. What Mael found surprising was that Tarmiel’s center head was a unicorn, while the ones to his left and right had no horns were closer in shape to earth ponies and pegasi respectively. “Pony.” Mael corrected, “While calling you a horse wouldn’t be wrong in our language, it is a rather… insulting term for the inhabitants here.” “And how would you know this?” Sairel said as he tried getting used to walking on 4 legs, Sariel's fur was a minty green and his wings where like the rest of the archangels, a bright white. Too bad he maintain his short stature which was a little shorter than the average equestrian stallion. “I’ve been here before,” Mael said, “It has been a long time but I still remember some things about this place.” “But why am I a Hor-” Tarmiel cut himself off, “a pony” “I could bore you with many hours explaining the theory of interdimensional travel,” Ludociel said, “but all you need to know is that our body’s adapted to look more like the majority of the population here, while retaining most of our original features.” “That actually makes sense.” Tarmiel said Mael began to look around realizing that no one, or rather nopony, was around. The only thing that surrounded them was tar black trees with thorny vines growing off of them. Mael remembered that Celestia, his adopted mother, once told him that this area was known as the everfree forest, a very dangerous place for ponies to go. While it probably wasn’t much of any threat to him now, it still felt very off putting. “Nerobasta,” Ludociel said,“Can you hear me?” “Loud and clear sir.” She replied, confirming that the telepathy link was stable. “Good.” Ludociel said, “Keep watch in case the demons do decide to attack the celestial realm while we’re out.” “Yes sir,” Nerobasta said, “But may I ask you something, Sir Ludociel.” “What is it?” “Why did you decide to do interdimensional travels instead of something a little more... normal” Nerobasta asked, “Classified information.” Ludociel said before abruptly, and temporarily, severing the communication link. Suddenly a slight glimmer of light caught Mael’s eye through the heavy woods. It was still about mid day, so it couldn’t have been sun setting. Possibly there was a town or something in that direction. “We should go this way,” Mael said, “I think I saw something over there.” “Wait, Mael,” Sariel said, “I agree with Nerobasta on this. Just why exactly are we here?” Mael looked towards his brother, wanting to figure out if he should answer this. “Why are you looking at me?” Ludociel asked, “It was your decision, so you can answer it if you want to.” Mael turned his attention back towards Sariel and Tarmiel, who were waiting for a proper answer. “Do you remember all those years ago when you banished me to an alternate realm to protect me from the Holy War?” Mael asked “Yes,” Tarmiel replied, Mael’s question accidentally struck a nerve, “I’m still sorry about that, okay.” “Don’t be,” Mael said, “While I was here, I actually made some... connections, and I believe she should still be alive.” “She?” Sariel said, “Do you have a pony girlfriend here?” “No, it's nothing like that.” Mael said, “She was like a mother to me. So it would be weird if I had feelings like that for her. Now come on, I don’t want to be too terribly late seeing her again.” Making their way through the forest, they had taken a standard diamond-like formation. Ludociel led the group at the front, Sariel and Tarmiel stood at the sides while Mael walked behind them to prevent anyone from flanking. Even though they didn’t need to do it, the four Archangels did it so much in the Holy war that it has become second nature to them. Eventually the trees began to thin out, allowing them to see a small town ahead of them. A large number of ponies looked at them, their expression ranged from confusion to fear at the archangels' presence. Out of fear the ponies stepped out of the way of the four archangels. “Look at all these little ponies,” Tarmiel remarked, “It’s almost cute how weak they are compared to us.” “What did you say about us?” A cyan pegasus said as she dash off towards Tarmiel with malicious intent “Rainbow Dash stop!” A purple pony said trying to prevent the mare from doing something she’d regret But it was already too late. Rainbow Dash’s hoof had already collided with the face of the Ocean Grace. There was so much force behind her punch that it actually left a pretty nasty looking imprint on his face. When the rainbow haired pegasus had thought that she had won, Tarmiel’s regenerative abilities activated, returning his face to normal. (Or at least normal for his pony form) “Now what was that?” Tarmiel mocked, “You couldn’t even kill a fly with a punch like that!” Rainbow growled at this mockery of her, while Tarmiel just cackled at the pony’s attempt to be intimidating. “How about this, I’ll let you have one more attack against me before I decide to retaliate.” Tarmiel said, “If you manage to actually hurt me this time I will spare you.” “I’ll make you regret that!” Rainbow Dash said as she punched with all of her might, causing the front half of Tarmiel’s muzzle to collapse. Just as quickly as he regenerated the first time, his body returned to normal. “Hey Sariel, I think I may have actually felt something this time.” “Really, is that so?” Sariel questioned incredulously “No.” Tarmiel said as he slapped the cyan pegasus to the ground. Rainbow Dash starred in utter horror as Tarmiel began charging up a large sphere of magical plasma overhead. Everypony there felt the tremendous amount of magic Tarmiel was putting into his attack. Mael to note how several began quivering in fear, especially one yellow pegasus with a pink mane covering her head with her hooves. She was too scared to even open her eyes. “Tarmiel, that’s enough.” Mael said as he grabbed his friend by the arm, or rather front leg, “We haven’t even been here three hours yet and you're already planning on killing someone?” “Aw come on.” Tarmiel complained, as his sphere dissolved into the air, “You're no fun, I was planning on healing her afterwards.” “I do apologize for my friend’s rather… ruthless behavior.” Mael apologized to the mare, “But where we come from, punching some pony in the face is very rude.” “Yeah… uh…” Rainbow stammered over her words, unsure of what to say before Celestia made her presence known among them. “Who are you four, and what do you want with my ponies?” Celestia demanded in a stern voice, she flared her wings in an attempt to intimidate them. “You don’t remember me?” Ludociel said with a mild sadness in his voice, “But then again, I don’t blame you. You didn’t get to know me for more than half a day.” Celestia stayed silent as she continued to stare at Ludociel, attempting to frighten him into talking. While Celestia got the results she wanted, she saw not even the tiniest of fractures in Ludociel’s composure. “Anyways, allow me to introduce ourselves, we are the four archangels, elite warriors of the Goddess Race, second only to the Supreme Deity herself. I am Ludociel of the Grace Flash, I am the leader of the Four Archangels.” Ludociel said as he noticed a subtle change in Celestia’s posture as she seemed to remember him, “Next we have the dynamic duo of the Four Archangels. Sariel of the Grace Tornado and Tarmiel of the Grace Ocean.” Ludociel gestures to the two individuals respectively, “And finally, the fourth and most powerful of us four,” Ludociel stepped aside, revealing to Celestia his younger brother, “Mael.” “Long time no see.” Mael said as he made his way to the front of the group, “mother.” Celestia couldn’t believe her eyes, was this pony standing before her really her son? He wore gleaming gold armor that shone with the brilliance of many suns, and his expression on his face was calm, yet, happy. Has he really changed this much? Even though it had been over 300 years, Celestia was still only familiar with the little colt Mael. But all she needed was only one look at his eyes, those precious blue eyes that couldn’t bear any hatred towards anything, that this was in fact her long lost son. “Ma- Mael, my son. You’re alive.” Celestia couldn’t keep the tears back as she walked up to him for a hug, but her pace quickened into a run. Mael ran into his mother’s loving embrace, tears of joy began rolling down his face as he broke out of his own stoic demeanor. “I’m so happy to see you again mom.” Celestia shared an intimate moment with her son, she didn’t care that everypony saw her like this. Even after all those years of being apart, Mael loved his mother possibly even more than his own brother. Celestia pulled her head back to make sure that this was really her son before she pulled him back in for an even tighter hug. Everypony stood there in shock. Aside from a very select few ponies, Twilight among them, no pony knew that Celestia had adopted a son a few hundred years ago. Though not much was known about him because of how short of a time he spent in this world. While many historical scholars all agreed that Mael had existed, anything else than that was believed to be only long forgotten legends among their communities. “Hey, do you know what this calls for?” A pink earth pony said, “A party!” Mael was a little surprised when he heard the party pony speak with such enthusiasm. When he gave an inquisitive look at his mother as he looked for answers, she just whispered “Don’t question the pink one.” under her breath, barely loud enough for him to hear. “A party?” Ludociel said as he certainly wasn’t expecting anything special upon their arrival, “Do either of you two have any objections to this?” “No! Of course not.” Sariel said, “We’ve been fighting a stupid war for the past who knows how long. And you think we don’t want to party?” “Fair point.” Time passed, but Mael was unsure by just how much. Mael was introduced to Princess Luna, his aunt, and Princess Twilight and her five friends. Mael was surprised to see another alicorn that wasn’t his mother or his aunt, but he was even more surprised when he heard that had a cousin who was an alicorn, she was also Twilight’s sister in law. As time passed, the young fillies and colts had to be sent home because they had school tomorrow. After all of the little ones were sent home, Applejack brought out the adult ciders. Mael remembered how he had always wanted to try one, but his mother wouldn’t let him, and probably for a good reason. So he managed to convince the other Archangels to try some with him. “I don’t really understand you ponies,” Ludociel said, obviously drunk off his flanks, “drinking all this poison and partying it all up like this. You all are just as foolish as the humans.” “Yeah, but back in the Celestial Realm they never made poison as tasty as this.” Tarmiel interjected “This is not poison, you two,” Sariel reminded them, “It’s called cider.” Almost as if it were on queue, the three archangels passed out on after the other. “You are all a bunch of lightweights.” Mael remarked before downing his final mug and passing out. At a nearby table Celestia watched the entire thing unfold. “Wow Luna, I think you now might have competition for the biggest lightweight of the family.” Celestia teased before realizing that Luna was far too gone to even understand what Celestia was saying even if she was still awake. “But then again, I think you still easily take the cake.” Celestia noticed Mael was starting to wake up and he began to look around. Applying a hoof to the temples of his head, a pink glow emitted from his hoof, which was more than likely some sort of healing spell. Silently, Mael got up from the table and walked out the door. While Celestia didn't want to be overbearing, her motherly instincts told her something was wrong, so she followed him outside. By the time she got there, Mael was sitting on the side of the road watching the sun set. “Mael, is everything alright?” Celestia asked her son, “Why aren’t you inside with the rest of us?” “I just wanted some fresh air is all.” Mael said, “It’s been nearly 400 years, and I still know when something is bothering you.” Celestia said, “So tell me, what’s wrong?” Mael stayed silent for a moment to think of a way to explain this without raising too much suspicion. “Is she still alive?” It took Celestia a moment to run through her archive of memories to know who she was. When she realized it, Celestia felt stupid for not knowing it instantly. While Celestia wanted to give her son comfort, she also knew that her answer would more than likely fill him with despair. “Yes, she is still alive.” Celestia said,” but she is no longer the little ‘ling you once knew. She has become very much like her mother without you by her side.” “I see.” Mael said, “I’m glad that she is safe, but I knew that this would’ve happened. I will make it up to her. Somehow.” Chapter 2Mael woke up the next morning, he was surprised to see that Ludociel hadn’t already ended up personally dragging him out of bed yet. Ironically, the one who everyone herald as the sun grace was not a morning person. Infact, Mael would’ve slept till noon if he could. But he decided against waiting for his brother to come wake him up and got out of bed anyway. When Mael stood up to stretch, he suddenly felt very unbalanced as he fell down on all fours with a familiar sounding thud. Looking around, Mael was trying to figure out what had happened. After a moment he realized he was in his childhood room from equestria. While his bed and a few other things were larger to accommodate his now grown up size, everything else was almost exactly like he’d left it. Even his old childhood toy chest was still around, or it had been replaced by an identical one. Whether or not it was the original didn’t really matter that much to Mael, but what did was all those memories he had of this place. Looking around the room, Mael noticed that somepony had already moved his clothes into their correct drawers for him, he’d have to thank the maids later. While most ponies didn’t normally wear clothes, Mael was honestly debating whether or not to wear them because he and his original race normally did wear clothes. Mael eventually decided on wearing his usual white button down robe before heading out of his room. As he headed to the dining room, Mael noticed that some of the guards were eyeing him curiously, like they had never seen him before, which they hadn't. The familiar aroma of pancakes wafted around in the air as it guided him to the dining room. “Good morning mom,” Mael said before he noticed his aunt resting her head on the table, “And good morning to you too aunty Luna.” “Good morning to you too.” Celestia said as she finished making breakfast and placed a plate of pancakes in front of him, “Say, where are the other three?” “I think they’re still asleep, which is weird because Ludociel usually ends up dragging me out of bed.” Mael remarked with a small chuckle, “My brother really likes to stick to a strict schedule of intense training that usually starts about an hour before sunrise. So he isn’t happy when something gets in the way of that.” “I see,” Celestia commented, feeling worried over Mael’s description of his brother, “your brother, he isn’t mean, is he?” “That’s not quite how I would describe him.” Mael replied, understanding Celestia’s concern after his previous comment, “While Ludociel can be short tempered at times, he would never intentionally hurt me or any of his comrades. In fact, most of comrades didn’t believe me when I said that my brother can be really clingy.” “That’s nice to hear.” Celestia said, “If I allowed you to go into an abusive environment, I don’t think I could’ve forgiven myself.” “Mom. You worry too much, Ludociel wouldn’t have let anything bad happen to me.” Mael replied, assuring his mother that she had nothing to worry about, “While there were a few bad apples, I also made many friends while I was away.” “Could you two please keep it down?” Luna groaned, “You’re going to make my headache worse.” “Sorry Luna,” Celestia said, “I forgot you were there.” “Why exactly does she have a headache?” Mael inquired “She had too much hard cider to drink last night.” Celestia explained with a sad sigh, “It’s just a hangover, but the headaches that come with it hurt like Tartarus.” “I see.” Mael said, “Hey Auntie Luna, would you mind if I tried something to help you feel better?” Luna groaned in approval, she would do just about anything to get rid of this headache. Reaching over the table, Mael’s hoof gently pressed against the side of Luna’s head. At first she thought it was going to be a massage, but a relaxing sensation began to wash all throughout her body. Through her closed eyelids, she saw a pink light gently glowing from the direction of Mael’s hoof. When the light had faded, Luna fully expected the searing pain of her headache to return, but it was completely gone along with all the other symptoms of a hangover. “How did you do that?” Luna questioned, now having the most energy she has had since she had returned from the moon. “I learned a few, or rather a lot of things while I was gone.” Mael said, “And one of those things was healing magic.” “You are my new favorite nephew!” Luna announced, Mael was taken aback by that statement, “Do I have another cousin that I don’t know about?” “Yes, there is.” Celestia said, “His name is Blueblood. He can be obnoxious but he means well, most of the time.” “Are there any other cousins I need to be made aware of?” “Nope,” Celestia replied, “just those two.” “I guess I should meet them some time soon.” Mael said, “They seem like nice ponies that I wouldn’t mind getting to know.” Celestia smiled, “Well you won’t have to wait very long. Cadence and her husband are visiting as part of a guard training program, because he is currently the captain of the Crystal Empire’s guard and the former captain of mine.” They all continued eating their breakfast as they enjoyed each other's company. After a while, hoof steps could be heard down the hall as Ludociel made his way into view with the other two archangels right behind him. “Good morning Ludociel,” Mael greeted his elder brother, “and same for you as well Sariel and Tarmiel.” “Good morning to you to Mael,” Ludociel said, “I can see breakfast has already been made. Would you mind if I had some?” “No, not at all.” Celestia said, “I even made extra because I knew we had company.” The six of them all sat around the table and shared breakfast, making jokes and enjoying each other’s company. It had been many millennia since Celestia and Luna last had company that they could honestly consider their friends. After some time had passed, Mael headed for the doors of the castle as he grabbed a cloak to hide his wings from the world. After all, he didn’t want to draw the other pony’s attention to him with his four snow white wings. Right before he pushed the doors open, Ludociel stopped him. “Brother, where are you going?” “I’m just going to explore Equestria and see just how much has changed in my absence.” Mael said, “If you wouldn’t mind, I would like to go alone.” Ludociel knew there was something the Mael wasn’t telling him, but he decided not to press any further and grant Mael his wish. Making his way down the stairs, Mael started making his journey to the badlands, home of the changelings. Mael only had one thing in mind, he had to go see Chrysalis. If what Celestia had said was true, then Chrysalis had become very much like her mother, who she despised since she was little. If there was even a sliver of her childhood self left in her, then Mael would be able to save her from this torment she had set herself in. Author's Note Sorry if this felt a little rushed. I knew that if I didn’t get this chapter out soon I may never be able to continue the story with the same motivation I had when I started it. Chapter 3 - Pt. 1Author's Note Chapter 3 will be split up into 2 or 3 different parts. After all the parts are out, I may edit them into 1 large chapter afterwards. Usually bigger chapters take longer, so I just didn't want anyone to think this has died just yet. Chapter 3 - Pt. 1 Making a trip to the badlands would’ve been a death wish for any normal pony, the sheer distance between the changeling hive and the nearest pony civilization alone would’ve been enough to deter any potential tourists, but not Mael. While just the trip to the badlands’ outer regions would’ve taken even a skilled adventurer a few days, Mael saw the changeling hive come over the horizon after just a few hours of flying. Had it not been for the grueling training Mael had been put through when he was younger, he wouldn’t have been able to even consider traversing such conditions. Landing on the dry and dusty ground below him, Mael gazed upon the changeling hive in the near distance. What once was a small structure in the distance, the size of a single bit, quickly grew into a towering structure that warned all creatures to stay away. When they were younger, Chryssi had told him about how large it was, but seeing it in person was a completely different feeling. The longer Mael thought about his past, the more he feared that Chrysalis no longer remembered him, but there was only one way to see if she would. When he entered the changeling hive, Mael found himself being spied on by many changeling drones and possibly even a few soldiers as well. The further Mael walked, the darker it got, soon Mael was barely able to see his hoof in front of his face. Using the power of his grace, Mael summoned a miniature sun to accompany him and light up his path. But it was at this moment that he saw just how many changelings there were. When he first entered he could make out the outlines of a few drones, but now he could see that there were over 200 changelings surrounding him. Paying no attention to how badly he was outnumbered, Mael just kept walking. The changelings made way for him, not out of respect, but because they had now lost the advantage of surprise. All except 1 changeling soldier. From the corner of Mael’s eye, he saw one jump out from the crowd and attempt to attack him. Mael didn’t flinch, infact, he was more scared of accidentally hurting the changelings rather than them hurting him. The changeling bit down around Mael’s neck, snapping his fang clean off. Screeching in pain, the changeling soldier jumped off of Mael. Looking over where the changeling landed, Mael approached him, making the other changelings quickly scramble away from him. The changeling with the broken fang trembled while he hissed in a last ditch effort to scare the Sun Grace. Unintimidated by its actions, Mael gently pressed a hoof into the Changeling’s muzzle, silencing it. “Be well.” Mael commanded in a calm yet authoritative voice A faint pink glow surrounded the Changeling’s maw before dissipating. The changeling was briefly stunned by light, but when he finally had processed what had happened, he was filled with fear and curiosity. “Are you okay,” Mael asked, “How’s your fang?” “W- what?” “I ask how your fang is doing, I want to make sure it heals correctly.” The changeling briefly rubbed its tongue across its teeth, and to its amazement, the broken fang had completely regrown. “H- how?” “I have many talents, and healing magic is one of my strong suits.” Mael replied, “Listen, I harbor no ill intent to your kind, and I only wish to speak with your queen. Could you show me where she is?” The changeling looked like he was conflicted on if he should tell Mael the truth or not. But eventually, without saying a word, the changeling looked up at the ceiling. There was a hidden tunnel with a steep incline directly above Mael, the only way anyone could have noticed it was if they looked up. Nodding his head to the changeling, Mael flew up the tunnel’s entrance before it began too small for him to continue flying. If he wanted any chance to see Chrysalis again, Mael would have to climb the rest of the way. Boredom ran rampant through Chrysalis’s mind as she laid on her throne, just waiting for each and every uneventful day to end. There weren’t many things to do as a queen, but the few things that she could do endangered her responsibility of making sure her hive well-being. The thought of going on another feeding trip excited Chrysalis, but her rational side told her that she still had more than enough love stored up to last her hive through the month. But to her surprise, Chrysalis noticed something interesting in the changeling hivemind. A bulky unicorn stallion, hiding most of his features under a ragged cloak, marched through the hive unafraid of any of the changelings around him. After witnessing a short bout between him and one of her changeling soldiers, Chrysalis gave permission to the changeling soldier to show him the way to her. Maybe her day wasn’t going to be as boring as she thought. It had been a few minutes before Chrysalis saw the stallion’s head pop out of one of the hive's many entrances before he pulled himself the rest of the way out. The changeling’s guard stationed outside of that passageway took notice of him and attempted to prevent him from progressing further. But as soon as they were in position to defend, they receded after receiving direct orders from Chrysalis, through the hive mind, to let him proceed. “Come, and tell me who you are and what business you have with the changelings.” Chrysalis commanded in a firm voice, not yet realizing that it was her childhood friend wishing to meet with her. Mael approached Chrysalis calmly, not wishing to disrespect her on their first encounter in over 300 years, “I wish to seek an audience with you Queen Chrysalis.” “Give me one good reason why I should grant you that wish.” Chrysalis said, peering down at him from her throne “If you remembered who I was,” Mael said, “You would’ve been more than thrilled to grant my wish.” “Remember you?” Chrysalis scoffed, “Why should I spend my time remembering the names of ponies when their lives are a mere fraction of mine? All you ponies think that you’re always so special, just because you do this or that for those princesses of yours doesn’t make y…” Chrysalis slowed down her rant when she noticed that Mael started taking off his cloak. The moment Chrysalis saw Mael’s four alabaster wings, she had stopped herself completely to stare in disbelief. Various emotions, many of which she hadn’t felt in hundreds of years, flooded her mind as she recalled all the fond memories she had shared with Mael. “You’re alive?” Chrysalis asked in a shaky voice “Yes,” Mael replied, “I am.” Chrysalis couldn’t believe her eyes, she just couldn’t. For over 300 years, she believed that Celestia had given Mael over to the griffons to prevent an oncoming war, and in doing so, the griffons had the young solar prince executed. That had been one of the biggest reasons for why Chrysalis despised pony-kind. But now, Chrysalis saw with her own 2 eyes that Mael was alive and stood before him. “Very well, I will grant you my audience.” Chrysalis replied, “Come, there is a better place for us to speak.” Leading Mael down one of the many dark hallways of the changeling hive, Chrysalis walked to one of the few doors in the Hive. While the two armored changeling soldiers stared at Mael with suspicion and curiosity in their minds, their expression stayed never changing in the presence of their queen. Inside the room was, to Mael’s surprise, a pretty normal looking bedroom. The only major difference was the building materials for the room and it’s items. Instead of using what most would consider normal materials, almost everything was made out of a polished black quartz. Green crystals lined the room, giving off a dim green light that was just bright enough for him to be able to see. As soon as the door closed behind Mael, there was no longer any reason for Chrysalis to keep her emotions behind a mask. Within a second, Chrysalis lost her composure, once she started letting out tears, there was nothing that could be done to stop it. There were so many different emotions behind those tears, no one could say that she was just crying tears of joy or sorrow. “You’re alive.” Chrysalis said as tears rolled down her face, “I thought you died all those years ago.” “Chrysalis, it’s going to be okay.” Mael said as he pulled her into a hug, removing what little barrier she had left that inhibited her tears, “It’s okay now…” Chapter 3 - Pt. 2Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
PrologueLuna walked down the castle hall a few hours in search of her sister. It had been a number of years after Luna had returned from her banishment, but everytime she thought that she was fully adjusted, there was always something new she did not know about. Despite it already being nighttime, Luna knew that Celestia was still usually awake at this hour. Approaching her sister’s room, Luna knocked on the door. “Who is it?” Celestia asked through the door “Your sister.” Luna replied “Ah, come in.” Luna entered Celestia’s room to see Celestia stargazing from her balcony. Luna had been back long enough to know that Celestia only did this when something was heavy on her mind. A small wooden chest sat opened beside Celestia. Luna knew of its existence and how the last maid who moved it almost lost her life to an angry Celestia, but she was more worried about her sister at this moment. “Celestia, are you alright?” Luna asked, “Is there something on your mind?” “No,” Celestia lied, “everything is fine.” “Celestia, I know you are lying.” Luna said in a monotone voice before it changed back to one of comforting, “I know something is wrong. If you don’t want to tell me, I understand.” “No, I would actually like to talk, it is time that I stop hiding this from you anyways.” Celestia said, “Would you come sit beside me, it would be easier to talk to you this way.” Luna sat beside her sister wanting to hear what was weighing so heavy on Celestia’s heart. As Celestia stayed quiet, trying to think of where to begin her story, Luna noticed what was inside the chest. A small golden crown with an amethyst jewel attached into it, Luna could tell that it was very old because it was really dusty. Normally, the two sisters would exchange their old crowns for a newer one every few generations to keep them from wearing rusty crowns. “Sister, whose crown is that?” Luna asked “It belonged to my son,” Celestia replied, “his name was Mael.” “Did you court somepony in my absence?” Luna surprisely said, “Do tell more.” “No, no I didn’t. I adopted him.” Celestia said, “I haven’t courted somepony in over half a millenia.” “Oh, I...” Luna was a little unsure about what to say “Don’t be sorry, you didn’t know.” Celestia said, “He was always so full of energy and always had a smile on his face. Mael was the type of pony that couldn’t bring himself to harm another creature. But he was a peculiar little colt, when I found him, he was already an alicorn.” “Already an alicorn?” Luna asked, “but somepony being born an alicorn is completely unheard of.” “That’s not even half of it.” Celestia remarked, “Mael had four white wings that contrasted his light beige coat, it was almost comical how small his wings made him look. But as he grew, things became even more apparent just how different he was.” “Like?” “His diet, for example, Mael had no problem eating large portions of meat that would make a normal pony very sick.” Celestia said, “He also had very unique magic, it had supernatural healing properties.” “What happened to him?” “During the experimental alliance called ‘the council of 5,’ the griffons found a loophole in the contract and wanted to experiment on his magic.” Celestia said, “If it hadn’t been for his biological brother showing up, I fear that he would’ve been killed by the griffons.” “You really cared about your son,” Luna said, “but where is he now? I haven’t heard anything about you having a son until now.” “I am not sure.” Celestia's voice became saddened, “After Ludociel, Mael’s brother, managed to scare off the griffons, I was left with two choices. Either I could keep Mael in my care, and risk a griffon assassin attacking him, or I could send him with his brother back to his native land, allowing him to be trained by Ludociel. I can only hope that I made the right decision.” She paused for a moment before returning to stargazing, “I wonder how my son is doing, or if he even still remembers me.” Dread and fear began to overcome the Celestial Realm as the Ten Commandments, along with the Demon King's representative, marched through its capital city. The immense darkness caused by the elite demons was felt throughout the entire realm, sending the people into a state of panic as the Four Archangels and Lady Elizabeth rushed to the capital city. To their surprise no one had been taken hostage, much less harmed. Instead, the ten commandments stood there as Meliodas put on a menacing smirk. “Well well well, look who finally showed their faces.” Meliodas said “What do you want?” Ludociel growled “I have a proposition that will end the holy war.” Meliodas said, “And I think you’ll find that the terms aren’t unreasonable.” “And what would that be?” Ludociel mocked, “You’re going to sacrifice yourself and hand over the demons into captivity for their safety?” “Brother, I don’t think this is some sort of trap they’re trying to lure us into.” Mael said, “We should at least hear them out. The longer this war continues, the more likely it becomes that our own race becomes permanently crippled from this war.” “I agree with Mael on this,” Tarmiel said, “We should at least give them a chance to show us their offer first.” “The sooner we get this war over, the less lives need to be taken.” Sariel added in, “It would be easier to make peace with the demons rather than attempt to eradicate them. Even if that peace is temporary, it would allow others to heal from this war.” Ludociel saw his opinion was outnumbered three to one, possibly even four to one if he counted Lady Elizabeth’s silent vote. Begrudgingly, he decided to listen to Meliodas’s proposal. If it was a waste of his time, Ludociel wouldn’t hesitate to slaughter all of the ten commandments. “Fine. What are your conditions?” Ludociel said through clenched teeth, “I only promise that I will consider them, anything else will not be guaranteed.” “My conditions are simple.” Meliodas said, “I demand Elizabeth’s hand in marriage.” Everyone, even the Ten Commandments were brought back at Meliodas’s demand. The only one who wasn’t stunned was Gowther, who was the only one Meliodas trusted with the knowledge of his relation with Elizabeth. But even he was a little surprised at how up front he was about it. “YOU WANT WHAT!?” Ludociel shouted towards the yellow haired demon “I will not allow you to do such a thing!” Mael said, being equally infuriated as his older brother. “You have no say in this, you are not Elizabeth.” Meliodas said, “As you are very much aware, a goddess being on speaking terms with a demon is shameful in your world. So how much more humiliating would it be if one of your most divine married one? You get the peace you want, while we get to humiliate you one last time. It's a fair trade, wouldn’t you say so?” “I accept your offer.” Elizabeth said The four archangels stood there in shock, she couldn’t have just said that. Not only did Meliodas just explain how humiliating it would be, but her mother could disown her for this. Making her lose all authority she has over the goddess race. “Lady Elizabeth, you can’t be serious.” Tarmiel said, “I’m starting to think this might be a trap.” “If it means bringing an end to this holy war, then I’ll gladly suffer any humiliation awaiting me.” Elizabeth said, “Like Mael said, I don’t think this is a trap, but even if it is, I am more than capable of holding my own against Meliodas.” She flew down in front of Meliodas, and extended a hand towards the head of the Ten commandments. Meliodas looked at her hand then back up at her, he shook Elizabeth’s hand. Both of them silently vowed to start a new era for both demons and goddesses alike. “I look forward to figuring out all the specifics needed for our marriage.” News spread throughout all the realms that the Holy War is being brought to a close. While many rejoiced knowing that the war would soon be over, others started to despise Elizabeth for how she decided to end it. The only thing that stopped the goddess race from going into a civil war was that the four archangels reluctantly sided with Elizabeth over the other side. “Brother, I know how you feel, I hate this as much as you do.” Ludociel said, trying to comfort his brother, “But the war is finally over, so why don’t we go home?” “Home?” Mael asked, “I don’t understand what you mean. This is my home, is it not?” “No, this is my home.” Ludociel said, “You were dragged out of your home and into this war. I know your mother misses you, it's been over 300 years since she’s last seen you.” “Are you saying that we are going to go see her?” “Yes, I am” “Thank you.” Mael gave a hug to his brother before heading to his room to grab something. He went straight to his bookshelf before grabbing a small chest off of its top shelf, it was relatively dusty on the outside after not being touched for a few years. Opening it, he smiled after he saw the contents of it were still intact. Inside was a small worn out plush of a dog, it had several stitches after many decades of loving use. “Mother, please wait for me,” Mael said as he put the chest back on the shelf, “because I am coming home.”
Chapter 1Celestia and Luna flew to Ponyville with magical disguises to hide themselves. It was an idea Luna came up with to take a small vacation. While Celestia was opposed to it at the beginning, eventually decided to finally take a break from her princess duties and relax a little in Ponyville. The two of them had a fail safe even if somepony found out about their disguise, they could just say that they were running a social experiment of sorts. Their disguises used illusion and auditory magic to give them the appearance of a normal sized pony. Eventually the two of them found the somewhat recently crowned Princess Twilight, talking with her five friends. Celestia, in her disguise, walked up to her former student with an idea in mind. Her idea wasn’t malicious, some could even call it a prank, but Celestia knew that it would help increase Twilight's self image about being a princess. “Excuse me,” Celestia said while being disguised, “are you princess twilight?” “Why yes I am,” Twilight replied being a little confused after not knowing who that young mare is, “is there something you need?” “Could I have an autograph?” Celestia asked in a mildly timid act “Sure, I wouldn’t mind” Twilight said as she grabbed a piece of paper in her magic. Rainbow Dash teased Twilight, congratulating her for finally gaining her first fan. As Twilight was writing her name on a piece of paper a powerful magic surge flooded the area, making her drop her quil midway through writing the “g” in her name. Calling this magic powerful would’ve been an understatement but she couldn’t think of any other words to describe it. It was so powerful that everypony felt it, not just unicorns that specialized in sensory magic but also earth ponies and pegasi as well, who had almost no connection to magic compared to the unicorn. “Twilight, did you feel that just now?” Rainbow dash asked in a slightly worried tone “I did,” Twilight’s breathing became uneasy Celestia and Luna looked towards each before they removed themselves from the area to find somewhere to safely take off their disguise. When they returned to the area they had left, Celestia and Luna saw that everypony was transfixed at the everfree forest, the place where the magic was spilling out from. Celestia couldn’t shake the feeling that she had felt this magic somewhere before, but where? Mael and the other archangels groaned as their trip here was as smooth as they planned. Normally teleportation wouldn’t be such a difficult feat, but Mael wasn’t surprised that his brother had such a hard time teleporting all four of them to a different dimension. Looking around he saw that his body had returned its pony form. For a few moments Mael was happy, until he realized that neither Sariel or Tarmiel knew what was going on. “AH!” Tarmiel screamed, “Why am I a horse!?” Mael looked at the three headed pony, if the voice wasn't more than enought those three heads were to prove that he is Tarmiel. While he maintained his original hair colors and eye colors for each head, his fur was a golden brown color. What Mael found surprising was that Tarmiel’s center head was a unicorn, while the ones to his left and right had no horns were closer in shape to earth ponies and pegasi respectively. “Pony.” Mael corrected, “While calling you a horse wouldn’t be wrong in our language, it is a rather… insulting term for the inhabitants here.” “And how would you know this?” Sairel said as he tried getting used to walking on 4 legs, Sariel's fur was a minty green and his wings where like the rest of the archangels, a bright white. Too bad he maintain his short stature which was a little shorter than the average equestrian stallion. “I’ve been here before,” Mael said, “It has been a long time but I still remember some things about this place.” “But why am I a Hor-” Tarmiel cut himself off, “a pony” “I could bore you with many hours explaining the theory of interdimensional travel,” Ludociel said, “but all you need to know is that our body’s adapted to look more like the majority of the population here, while retaining most of our original features.” “That actually makes sense.” Tarmiel said Mael began to look around realizing that no one, or rather nopony, was around. The only thing that surrounded them was tar black trees with thorny vines growing off of them. Mael remembered that Celestia, his adopted mother, once told him that this area was known as the everfree forest, a very dangerous place for ponies to go. While it probably wasn’t much of any threat to him now, it still felt very off putting. “Nerobasta,” Ludociel said,“Can you hear me?” “Loud and clear sir.” She replied, confirming that the telepathy link was stable. “Good.” Ludociel said, “Keep watch in case the demons do decide to attack the celestial realm while we’re out.” “Yes sir,” Nerobasta said, “But may I ask you something, Sir Ludociel.” “What is it?” “Why did you decide to do interdimensional travels instead of something a little more... normal” Nerobasta asked, “Classified information.” Ludociel said before abruptly, and temporarily, severing the communication link. Suddenly a slight glimmer of light caught Mael’s eye through the heavy woods. It was still about mid day, so it couldn’t have been sun setting. Possibly there was a town or something in that direction. “We should go this way,” Mael said, “I think I saw something over there.” “Wait, Mael,” Sariel said, “I agree with Nerobasta on this. Just why exactly are we here?” Mael looked towards his brother, wanting to figure out if he should answer this. “Why are you looking at me?” Ludociel asked, “It was your decision, so you can answer it if you want to.” Mael turned his attention back towards Sariel and Tarmiel, who were waiting for a proper answer. “Do you remember all those years ago when you banished me to an alternate realm to protect me from the Holy War?” Mael asked “Yes,” Tarmiel replied, Mael’s question accidentally struck a nerve, “I’m still sorry about that, okay.” “Don’t be,” Mael said, “While I was here, I actually made some... connections, and I believe she should still be alive.” “She?” Sariel said, “Do you have a pony girlfriend here?” “No, it's nothing like that.” Mael said, “She was like a mother to me. So it would be weird if I had feelings like that for her. Now come on, I don’t want to be too terribly late seeing her again.” Making their way through the forest, they had taken a standard diamond-like formation. Ludociel led the group at the front, Sariel and Tarmiel stood at the sides while Mael walked behind them to prevent anyone from flanking. Even though they didn’t need to do it, the four Archangels did it so much in the Holy war that it has become second nature to them. Eventually the trees began to thin out, allowing them to see a small town ahead of them. A large number of ponies looked at them, their expression ranged from confusion to fear at the archangels' presence. Out of fear the ponies stepped out of the way of the four archangels. “Look at all these little ponies,” Tarmiel remarked, “It’s almost cute how weak they are compared to us.” “What did you say about us?” A cyan pegasus said as she dash off towards Tarmiel with malicious intent “Rainbow Dash stop!” A purple pony said trying to prevent the mare from doing something she’d regret But it was already too late. Rainbow Dash’s hoof had already collided with the face of the Ocean Grace. There was so much force behind her punch that it actually left a pretty nasty looking imprint on his face. When the rainbow haired pegasus had thought that she had won, Tarmiel’s regenerative abilities activated, returning his face to normal. (Or at least normal for his pony form) “Now what was that?” Tarmiel mocked, “You couldn’t even kill a fly with a punch like that!” Rainbow growled at this mockery of her, while Tarmiel just cackled at the pony’s attempt to be intimidating. “How about this, I’ll let you have one more attack against me before I decide to retaliate.” Tarmiel said, “If you manage to actually hurt me this time I will spare you.” “I’ll make you regret that!” Rainbow Dash said as she punched with all of her might, causing the front half of Tarmiel’s muzzle to collapse. Just as quickly as he regenerated the first time, his body returned to normal. “Hey Sariel, I think I may have actually felt something this time.” “Really, is that so?” Sariel questioned incredulously “No.” Tarmiel said as he slapped the cyan pegasus to the ground. Rainbow Dash starred in utter horror as Tarmiel began charging up a large sphere of magical plasma overhead. Everypony there felt the tremendous amount of magic Tarmiel was putting into his attack. Mael to note how several began quivering in fear, especially one yellow pegasus with a pink mane covering her head with her hooves. She was too scared to even open her eyes. “Tarmiel, that’s enough.” Mael said as he grabbed his friend by the arm, or rather front leg, “We haven’t even been here three hours yet and you're already planning on killing someone?” “Aw come on.” Tarmiel complained, as his sphere dissolved into the air, “You're no fun, I was planning on healing her afterwards.” “I do apologize for my friend’s rather… ruthless behavior.” Mael apologized to the mare, “But where we come from, punching some pony in the face is very rude.” “Yeah… uh…” Rainbow stammered over her words, unsure of what to say before Celestia made her presence known among them. “Who are you four, and what do you want with my ponies?” Celestia demanded in a stern voice, she flared her wings in an attempt to intimidate them. “You don’t remember me?” Ludociel said with a mild sadness in his voice, “But then again, I don’t blame you. You didn’t get to know me for more than half a day.” Celestia stayed silent as she continued to stare at Ludociel, attempting to frighten him into talking. While Celestia got the results she wanted, she saw not even the tiniest of fractures in Ludociel’s composure. “Anyways, allow me to introduce ourselves, we are the four archangels, elite warriors of the Goddess Race, second only to the Supreme Deity herself. I am Ludociel of the Grace Flash, I am the leader of the Four Archangels.” Ludociel said as he noticed a subtle change in Celestia’s posture as she seemed to remember him, “Next we have the dynamic duo of the Four Archangels. Sariel of the Grace Tornado and Tarmiel of the Grace Ocean.” Ludociel gestures to the two individuals respectively, “And finally, the fourth and most powerful of us four,” Ludociel stepped aside, revealing to Celestia his younger brother, “Mael.” “Long time no see.” Mael said as he made his way to the front of the group, “mother.” Celestia couldn’t believe her eyes, was this pony standing before her really her son? He wore gleaming gold armor that shone with the brilliance of many suns, and his expression on his face was calm, yet, happy. Has he really changed this much? Even though it had been over 300 years, Celestia was still only familiar with the little colt Mael. But all she needed was only one look at his eyes, those precious blue eyes that couldn’t bear any hatred towards anything, that this was in fact her long lost son. “Ma- Mael, my son. You’re alive.” Celestia couldn’t keep the tears back as she walked up to him for a hug, but her pace quickened into a run. Mael ran into his mother’s loving embrace, tears of joy began rolling down his face as he broke out of his own stoic demeanor. “I’m so happy to see you again mom.” Celestia shared an intimate moment with her son, she didn’t care that everypony saw her like this. Even after all those years of being apart, Mael loved his mother possibly even more than his own brother. Celestia pulled her head back to make sure that this was really her son before she pulled him back in for an even tighter hug. Everypony stood there in shock. Aside from a very select few ponies, Twilight among them, no pony knew that Celestia had adopted a son a few hundred years ago. Though not much was known about him because of how short of a time he spent in this world. While many historical scholars all agreed that Mael had existed, anything else than that was believed to be only long forgotten legends among their communities. “Hey, do you know what this calls for?” A pink earth pony said, “A party!” Mael was a little surprised when he heard the party pony speak with such enthusiasm. When he gave an inquisitive look at his mother as he looked for answers, she just whispered “Don’t question the pink one.” under her breath, barely loud enough for him to hear. “A party?” Ludociel said as he certainly wasn’t expecting anything special upon their arrival, “Do either of you two have any objections to this?” “No! Of course not.” Sariel said, “We’ve been fighting a stupid war for the past who knows how long. And you think we don’t want to party?” “Fair point.” Time passed, but Mael was unsure by just how much. Mael was introduced to Princess Luna, his aunt, and Princess Twilight and her five friends. Mael was surprised to see another alicorn that wasn’t his mother or his aunt, but he was even more surprised when he heard that had a cousin who was an alicorn, she was also Twilight’s sister in law. As time passed, the young fillies and colts had to be sent home because they had school tomorrow. After all of the little ones were sent home, Applejack brought out the adult ciders. Mael remembered how he had always wanted to try one, but his mother wouldn’t let him, and probably for a good reason. So he managed to convince the other Archangels to try some with him. “I don’t really understand you ponies,” Ludociel said, obviously drunk off his flanks, “drinking all this poison and partying it all up like this. You all are just as foolish as the humans.” “Yeah, but back in the Celestial Realm they never made poison as tasty as this.” Tarmiel interjected “This is not poison, you two,” Sariel reminded them, “It’s called cider.” Almost as if it were on queue, the three archangels passed out on after the other. “You are all a bunch of lightweights.” Mael remarked before downing his final mug and passing out. At a nearby table Celestia watched the entire thing unfold. “Wow Luna, I think you now might have competition for the biggest lightweight of the family.” Celestia teased before realizing that Luna was far too gone to even understand what Celestia was saying even if she was still awake. “But then again, I think you still easily take the cake.” Celestia noticed Mael was starting to wake up and he began to look around. Applying a hoof to the temples of his head, a pink glow emitted from his hoof, which was more than likely some sort of healing spell. Silently, Mael got up from the table and walked out the door. While Celestia didn't want to be overbearing, her motherly instincts told her something was wrong, so she followed him outside. By the time she got there, Mael was sitting on the side of the road watching the sun set. “Mael, is everything alright?” Celestia asked her son, “Why aren’t you inside with the rest of us?” “I just wanted some fresh air is all.” Mael said, “It’s been nearly 400 years, and I still know when something is bothering you.” Celestia said, “So tell me, what’s wrong?” Mael stayed silent for a moment to think of a way to explain this without raising too much suspicion. “Is she still alive?” It took Celestia a moment to run through her archive of memories to know who she was. When she realized it, Celestia felt stupid for not knowing it instantly. While Celestia wanted to give her son comfort, she also knew that her answer would more than likely fill him with despair. “Yes, she is still alive.” Celestia said,” but she is no longer the little ‘ling you once knew. She has become very much like her mother without you by her side.” “I see.” Mael said, “I’m glad that she is safe, but I knew that this would’ve happened. I will make it up to her. Somehow.”
Chapter 2Mael woke up the next morning, he was surprised to see that Ludociel hadn’t already ended up personally dragging him out of bed yet. Ironically, the one who everyone herald as the sun grace was not a morning person. Infact, Mael would’ve slept till noon if he could. But he decided against waiting for his brother to come wake him up and got out of bed anyway. When Mael stood up to stretch, he suddenly felt very unbalanced as he fell down on all fours with a familiar sounding thud. Looking around, Mael was trying to figure out what had happened. After a moment he realized he was in his childhood room from equestria. While his bed and a few other things were larger to accommodate his now grown up size, everything else was almost exactly like he’d left it. Even his old childhood toy chest was still around, or it had been replaced by an identical one. Whether or not it was the original didn’t really matter that much to Mael, but what did was all those memories he had of this place. Looking around the room, Mael noticed that somepony had already moved his clothes into their correct drawers for him, he’d have to thank the maids later. While most ponies didn’t normally wear clothes, Mael was honestly debating whether or not to wear them because he and his original race normally did wear clothes. Mael eventually decided on wearing his usual white button down robe before heading out of his room. As he headed to the dining room, Mael noticed that some of the guards were eyeing him curiously, like they had never seen him before, which they hadn't. The familiar aroma of pancakes wafted around in the air as it guided him to the dining room. “Good morning mom,” Mael said before he noticed his aunt resting her head on the table, “And good morning to you too aunty Luna.” “Good morning to you too.” Celestia said as she finished making breakfast and placed a plate of pancakes in front of him, “Say, where are the other three?” “I think they’re still asleep, which is weird because Ludociel usually ends up dragging me out of bed.” Mael remarked with a small chuckle, “My brother really likes to stick to a strict schedule of intense training that usually starts about an hour before sunrise. So he isn’t happy when something gets in the way of that.” “I see,” Celestia commented, feeling worried over Mael’s description of his brother, “your brother, he isn’t mean, is he?” “That’s not quite how I would describe him.” Mael replied, understanding Celestia’s concern after his previous comment, “While Ludociel can be short tempered at times, he would never intentionally hurt me or any of his comrades. In fact, most of comrades didn’t believe me when I said that my brother can be really clingy.” “That’s nice to hear.” Celestia said, “If I allowed you to go into an abusive environment, I don’t think I could’ve forgiven myself.” “Mom. You worry too much, Ludociel wouldn’t have let anything bad happen to me.” Mael replied, assuring his mother that she had nothing to worry about, “While there were a few bad apples, I also made many friends while I was away.” “Could you two please keep it down?” Luna groaned, “You’re going to make my headache worse.” “Sorry Luna,” Celestia said, “I forgot you were there.” “Why exactly does she have a headache?” Mael inquired “She had too much hard cider to drink last night.” Celestia explained with a sad sigh, “It’s just a hangover, but the headaches that come with it hurt like Tartarus.” “I see.” Mael said, “Hey Auntie Luna, would you mind if I tried something to help you feel better?” Luna groaned in approval, she would do just about anything to get rid of this headache. Reaching over the table, Mael’s hoof gently pressed against the side of Luna’s head. At first she thought it was going to be a massage, but a relaxing sensation began to wash all throughout her body. Through her closed eyelids, she saw a pink light gently glowing from the direction of Mael’s hoof. When the light had faded, Luna fully expected the searing pain of her headache to return, but it was completely gone along with all the other symptoms of a hangover. “How did you do that?” Luna questioned, now having the most energy she has had since she had returned from the moon. “I learned a few, or rather a lot of things while I was gone.” Mael said, “And one of those things was healing magic.” “You are my new favorite nephew!” Luna announced, Mael was taken aback by that statement, “Do I have another cousin that I don’t know about?” “Yes, there is.” Celestia said, “His name is Blueblood. He can be obnoxious but he means well, most of the time.” “Are there any other cousins I need to be made aware of?” “Nope,” Celestia replied, “just those two.” “I guess I should meet them some time soon.” Mael said, “They seem like nice ponies that I wouldn’t mind getting to know.” Celestia smiled, “Well you won’t have to wait very long. Cadence and her husband are visiting as part of a guard training program, because he is currently the captain of the Crystal Empire’s guard and the former captain of mine.” They all continued eating their breakfast as they enjoyed each other's company. After a while, hoof steps could be heard down the hall as Ludociel made his way into view with the other two archangels right behind him. “Good morning Ludociel,” Mael greeted his elder brother, “and same for you as well Sariel and Tarmiel.” “Good morning to you to Mael,” Ludociel said, “I can see breakfast has already been made. Would you mind if I had some?” “No, not at all.” Celestia said, “I even made extra because I knew we had company.” The six of them all sat around the table and shared breakfast, making jokes and enjoying each other’s company. It had been many millennia since Celestia and Luna last had company that they could honestly consider their friends. After some time had passed, Mael headed for the doors of the castle as he grabbed a cloak to hide his wings from the world. After all, he didn’t want to draw the other pony’s attention to him with his four snow white wings. Right before he pushed the doors open, Ludociel stopped him. “Brother, where are you going?” “I’m just going to explore Equestria and see just how much has changed in my absence.” Mael said, “If you wouldn’t mind, I would like to go alone.” Ludociel knew there was something the Mael wasn’t telling him, but he decided not to press any further and grant Mael his wish. Making his way down the stairs, Mael started making his journey to the badlands, home of the changelings. Mael only had one thing in mind, he had to go see Chrysalis. If what Celestia had said was true, then Chrysalis had become very much like her mother, who she despised since she was little. If there was even a sliver of her childhood self left in her, then Mael would be able to save her from this torment she had set herself in. Author's Note Sorry if this felt a little rushed. I knew that if I didn’t get this chapter out soon I may never be able to continue the story with the same motivation I had when I started it.
Chapter 3 - Pt. 1Author's Note Chapter 3 will be split up into 2 or 3 different parts. After all the parts are out, I may edit them into 1 large chapter afterwards. Usually bigger chapters take longer, so I just didn't want anyone to think this has died just yet. Chapter 3 - Pt. 1 Making a trip to the badlands would’ve been a death wish for any normal pony, the sheer distance between the changeling hive and the nearest pony civilization alone would’ve been enough to deter any potential tourists, but not Mael. While just the trip to the badlands’ outer regions would’ve taken even a skilled adventurer a few days, Mael saw the changeling hive come over the horizon after just a few hours of flying. Had it not been for the grueling training Mael had been put through when he was younger, he wouldn’t have been able to even consider traversing such conditions. Landing on the dry and dusty ground below him, Mael gazed upon the changeling hive in the near distance. What once was a small structure in the distance, the size of a single bit, quickly grew into a towering structure that warned all creatures to stay away. When they were younger, Chryssi had told him about how large it was, but seeing it in person was a completely different feeling. The longer Mael thought about his past, the more he feared that Chrysalis no longer remembered him, but there was only one way to see if she would. When he entered the changeling hive, Mael found himself being spied on by many changeling drones and possibly even a few soldiers as well. The further Mael walked, the darker it got, soon Mael was barely able to see his hoof in front of his face. Using the power of his grace, Mael summoned a miniature sun to accompany him and light up his path. But it was at this moment that he saw just how many changelings there were. When he first entered he could make out the outlines of a few drones, but now he could see that there were over 200 changelings surrounding him. Paying no attention to how badly he was outnumbered, Mael just kept walking. The changelings made way for him, not out of respect, but because they had now lost the advantage of surprise. All except 1 changeling soldier. From the corner of Mael’s eye, he saw one jump out from the crowd and attempt to attack him. Mael didn’t flinch, infact, he was more scared of accidentally hurting the changelings rather than them hurting him. The changeling bit down around Mael’s neck, snapping his fang clean off. Screeching in pain, the changeling soldier jumped off of Mael. Looking over where the changeling landed, Mael approached him, making the other changelings quickly scramble away from him. The changeling with the broken fang trembled while he hissed in a last ditch effort to scare the Sun Grace. Unintimidated by its actions, Mael gently pressed a hoof into the Changeling’s muzzle, silencing it. “Be well.” Mael commanded in a calm yet authoritative voice A faint pink glow surrounded the Changeling’s maw before dissipating. The changeling was briefly stunned by light, but when he finally had processed what had happened, he was filled with fear and curiosity. “Are you okay,” Mael asked, “How’s your fang?” “W- what?” “I ask how your fang is doing, I want to make sure it heals correctly.” The changeling briefly rubbed its tongue across its teeth, and to its amazement, the broken fang had completely regrown. “H- how?” “I have many talents, and healing magic is one of my strong suits.” Mael replied, “Listen, I harbor no ill intent to your kind, and I only wish to speak with your queen. Could you show me where she is?” The changeling looked like he was conflicted on if he should tell Mael the truth or not. But eventually, without saying a word, the changeling looked up at the ceiling. There was a hidden tunnel with a steep incline directly above Mael, the only way anyone could have noticed it was if they looked up. Nodding his head to the changeling, Mael flew up the tunnel’s entrance before it began too small for him to continue flying. If he wanted any chance to see Chrysalis again, Mael would have to climb the rest of the way. Boredom ran rampant through Chrysalis’s mind as she laid on her throne, just waiting for each and every uneventful day to end. There weren’t many things to do as a queen, but the few things that she could do endangered her responsibility of making sure her hive well-being. The thought of going on another feeding trip excited Chrysalis, but her rational side told her that she still had more than enough love stored up to last her hive through the month. But to her surprise, Chrysalis noticed something interesting in the changeling hivemind. A bulky unicorn stallion, hiding most of his features under a ragged cloak, marched through the hive unafraid of any of the changelings around him. After witnessing a short bout between him and one of her changeling soldiers, Chrysalis gave permission to the changeling soldier to show him the way to her. Maybe her day wasn’t going to be as boring as she thought. It had been a few minutes before Chrysalis saw the stallion’s head pop out of one of the hive's many entrances before he pulled himself the rest of the way out. The changeling’s guard stationed outside of that passageway took notice of him and attempted to prevent him from progressing further. But as soon as they were in position to defend, they receded after receiving direct orders from Chrysalis, through the hive mind, to let him proceed. “Come, and tell me who you are and what business you have with the changelings.” Chrysalis commanded in a firm voice, not yet realizing that it was her childhood friend wishing to meet with her. Mael approached Chrysalis calmly, not wishing to disrespect her on their first encounter in over 300 years, “I wish to seek an audience with you Queen Chrysalis.” “Give me one good reason why I should grant you that wish.” Chrysalis said, peering down at him from her throne “If you remembered who I was,” Mael said, “You would’ve been more than thrilled to grant my wish.” “Remember you?” Chrysalis scoffed, “Why should I spend my time remembering the names of ponies when their lives are a mere fraction of mine? All you ponies think that you’re always so special, just because you do this or that for those princesses of yours doesn’t make y…” Chrysalis slowed down her rant when she noticed that Mael started taking off his cloak. The moment Chrysalis saw Mael’s four alabaster wings, she had stopped herself completely to stare in disbelief. Various emotions, many of which she hadn’t felt in hundreds of years, flooded her mind as she recalled all the fond memories she had shared with Mael. “You’re alive?” Chrysalis asked in a shaky voice “Yes,” Mael replied, “I am.” Chrysalis couldn’t believe her eyes, she just couldn’t. For over 300 years, she believed that Celestia had given Mael over to the griffons to prevent an oncoming war, and in doing so, the griffons had the young solar prince executed. That had been one of the biggest reasons for why Chrysalis despised pony-kind. But now, Chrysalis saw with her own 2 eyes that Mael was alive and stood before him. “Very well, I will grant you my audience.” Chrysalis replied, “Come, there is a better place for us to speak.” Leading Mael down one of the many dark hallways of the changeling hive, Chrysalis walked to one of the few doors in the Hive. While the two armored changeling soldiers stared at Mael with suspicion and curiosity in their minds, their expression stayed never changing in the presence of their queen. Inside the room was, to Mael’s surprise, a pretty normal looking bedroom. The only major difference was the building materials for the room and it’s items. Instead of using what most would consider normal materials, almost everything was made out of a polished black quartz. Green crystals lined the room, giving off a dim green light that was just bright enough for him to be able to see. As soon as the door closed behind Mael, there was no longer any reason for Chrysalis to keep her emotions behind a mask. Within a second, Chrysalis lost her composure, once she started letting out tears, there was nothing that could be done to stop it. There were so many different emotions behind those tears, no one could say that she was just crying tears of joy or sorrow. “You’re alive.” Chrysalis said as tears rolled down her face, “I thought you died all those years ago.” “Chrysalis, it’s going to be okay.” Mael said as he pulled her into a hug, removing what little barrier she had left that inhibited her tears, “It’s okay now…”
