Mechaniquus

by DougtheLoremaster

Rating: teen
Tags: Starlight Glimmer, Romance, Queen Chrysalis, Adventure, Alternate Universe, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Flurry Heart
Length: 78160

Tossed through a portal as a last act by Twilight; Chrysalis is all that is left, the sole survivor of a fallen realm. Now she finds herself in a completely mechanized version of Equus, against an enemy with an all too familliar face; her own.

Tossed through a portal as the last act by Twilight; Chrysalis is all that is left, the sole survivor of a fallen realm. Now she finds herself in a completely mechanized version of Equus, against an enemy with an all too familiar face; her own. Nothing is as it seems, and as more is revealed, Chrysalis finds herself questioning how she ended up like this. The real question is can she handle the answers she unconvers?

Published 2021-09-30 03:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2024-03-14 12:48:51 UTC

Chapter 2: A Rusting Inferno

Chrysalis sat there in silence, staring at the two mechanical Alicorns that towered over her; staring unblinkingly into her eyes. She couldn’t get over just how uncanny it was; they looked exactly like the Twilight and Starlight from her world. Though, while Twilight seemed to be calmly scanning her, the mechanized Starlight seemed to be glaring piercingly into her soul.

While Twilight analyzed her, Starlight spoke in a horribly grating snarl, her horn still alight with a ball of dark blue magic; now crackling with an electrical impulse.

“Don’t. Give. Me. A. Reason.”

Chrysalis shivered as she stared into her eyes, the murderous red glow emitting from them, renewing her resolve to stay absolutely still. There was no mistaking it; Starlight had nothing but hatred for the Changeling.

In her world, Starlight had been one of the first to forgive her, one of the first to let the past be the past. Here though, Starlight’s rage was barely contained and Chrysalis couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness at the sight; what was it that had caused such a warm Unicorn to become such a hateful Alicorn? What happened to you?

“That’s enough, sweetie, you’ve made your point.”

Twilight had finished her scan and also taken notice of the destructive energy emanating from Starlight. With the clattering of metal plates, her wings extended and before Starlight could move, she swiftly wrapped her partner in an embrace. Chrysalis was amazed at how fluid and detailed the metal that composed their bodies was; she could see each individual feather on her wings.

Twilight gently nuzzled against a startled Starlight’s neck, producing a slight whining from metal rubbing on metal. She spoke; her words, soothing and tender, directing them at her partner.

“No threat detected from her, why don’t you go start a new charging cycle? I can see your energy levels are low and I need you at peak proficiency.”

“Negatory, Twilight I will not-”

Twilight was having none of it. Her words were slightly firmer in tone, she still maintained her loving tone.

“No negotiation. You know arguing yields no results with me. I am always victorious.”

The eyes of Starlight were no longer a blazing red, instead, they now shined with her more recognizable dark blue radiance. As Twilight spoke, Starlight resigned to her partner’s directive and Chrysalis watched as she rolled her eyes, listening to her.

“Now, off you go. I shall be alright, I promise. Go recharge your batteries, and do a routine maintenance check on the status of the girls while you are at it. Rainbow Dash has been crying on her mat lately, though she tries to conceal it from my scanners and I am concerned this may have to do with, well-you know-what. “

Starlight nodded and gave a simple, snarky confirmation as she walked towards the tent flap; her hooves loudly clanking on the ground.

“Affirmative. Command has been processed and parameters are acceptable. Your directive will be carried out.”

Twilight called out to her, ignoring the sarcasm, right before Starlight left.

“Oh, and get our guest some armored covering; when the sun fully rises, she’ll be incinerated otherwise, as she is fully biological and I will not be happy should that happen. Thanks, love.”

Stopping instantly, Starlight let out a distorted sigh of defeat. Without turning her head, Starlight replied.

“Just be careful around her. I’ll synthesize some liquid plating for her after I check on the girls. I love you too.”

With that, she walked off, and Twilight turned back to Chrysalis. Noisily sitting down on her metallic haunches, she folded her wings once more. The metal plates caused a strange jingle-like melody as she rustled them; a habit Chrysalis recognized as an Alicorn getting comfortable. Chrysalis couldn’t help it, she smiled at the sight. Just like mine used to. At once her eyes widened as Twilight’s words finallysunk in. Frantically, she swamped Twilight with questions.

“Wait…What do you mean ‘incinerated’? What happened to the sun? And…What’s liquid plating?”

Twilight, who had been fidgeting to find the perfect roosting position, stopped fussing and glanced up. Cocking her head with an almost amused expression, the Alicorn simply stated, in her distorted gentleness.

“Go to the entrance of the tent and open the flap, do not set one hoof outside the tent. Tell me what you see.”

Slowly rising, Chrysalis slowly made her way to do as she was bid. Sweat from anxiety started dripping down her sleek Changeling form, as she approached the opening. No. Chrysalis felt her body temperature skyrocketing as the sweat intensified. This isn’t from anxiety at all! The temperature's increasing!

Slowly pulling open the flap, Chrysalis’s eyes went wide with shock and fear; the world outside the tent was engulfed in flame. What should have been rivers were boiling and hissing with untold amounts of steam, while the ground itself had seemed to become scorched with ash marks erupting in plumes of molten rock. She watched as Ponies calmly went about their business; even stopping to talk to others, none of them acknowledging the raging inferno that licked hungrily at their bodies.

As she stared in horror at the sight, Twilight spoke up softly from behind her.

“Welcome to Exoquestria, Chrysalis.”

Turning slowly to look at Twilight, Chrysalis was met with a sorrowful smile.

“Don’t worry about the flames; you’ll get used to them soon enough.”

Chrysalis, taken aback, could only stammer at her.

“B-but the fire, where’s Princess C-Celestia? W-why is the sun so close?”

Instantly Twilight’s eyes took on a mournful expression, the amethyst shine dimming as she answered.

“Dead. Luna too. Nopony controls the sun and moon anymore…They do as they please.”

It sounded like she wanted to cry, but being a machine; couldn’t shed any tears. Chrysalis had a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach that she knew. No. How she knew, she didn’t have a clue, but she knew. Starlight’s anger towards me. Swallowing hard, she asked the question she already knew the answer to.

“How did they die?”

Starlight’s grating voice spoke up behind Chrysalis before Twilight had a chance to answer. There was no anger in her words, instead, it sounded almost pained; hurt. Filled with the agony of having been betrayed.

“You killed them.”

Chapter 3: Metallic New Life

I did…What?

Chrysalis was stunned. Never in her wildest dreams, had she fathomed killing the Celestial Sisters. True, she had kidnapped and tortured them, but she never actually wanted them dead. If anything, she had only wanted to rule over them. How? Why would she…What caused the ‘her’ of this world to go so far?

With a clattering of metal plates, Twilight’s wings flared to their full six hoof-lengths in width; something Chrysalis recognized quite well. She braced herself, as Twilight roared at Starlight; now furious at her comment.

“Don’t say that, Starlight! She isn’t-”

“I know she isn’t. Cool your circuits.”

Mid-sentence, Twilight’s ferocity fell away, her wings lowering slightly and her eyes softening as she watched her partner’s reaction. Starlight’s eyes had hooded over, and she scuffed a metallic hoof on the floor, before slowly walking towards Chrysalis. She spoke to the Changeling, her tone hesitant and her words carried her pain.

“I know you aren’t her.”

Levitating a jar of pulsing liquid silvery ooze, she passed it to Chrysalis, before turning away from her.

“This is liquid plating, you’ll need this. Twilight can help you apply it.”

Lifting the flap to the tent and preparing to step through it, Starlight paused before adding.

“I know you aren’t her, but it’s hard seeing that face again. It’s hard not to see her when I look at you. I’m gonna go recharge, I’ll see you both later.”

Chrysalis watched her, still stunned by what she had said. Starlight slowly walked out of the tent, calling back.

“Oh, and, don’t bother telling Twilight you don’t want to. Twilight wants this to happen, and when she wants something, she gets it. Heh.”

After Starlight had gone, Twilight once more shuttered her wings, with a slight squeal of metal on metal, letting out a sigh. Turning back to Chrysalis, she rustled her feathers and went back into a roosting position. She spoke wistfully to her.

“You’ll need to forgive the Princess for her fierceness, she’s under a lot more stress these days.”

Completely at a loss, Chrysalis struggled to find any words.

“Princess?”

Nodding, Twilight slowly stood back up and walked over to her.

“Yes. The Princess of Friendship, or at least she was.”

Using her magic, to pick up the jar and slowly unscrew the lid, she mused out loud.

“Once she ruled over all of Equestria, That was before the coup. Now she just commands the rebellion against the Overlord,”

Overlord? Princess? Starlight is the Princess? Huh? What is this? Chrysalis watched as the silvery ooze left the jar and touched her forehoof. In amazement, she watched as it slowly crept up her hoof, and everywhere it touched was transformed into metal.

“Starlight has a lot on her mind, so I ask you to forgive her animosity towards your arrival.”

Startled, Chrysalis was frozen in awe at the sight, watching, paralyzed as her foreleg took on a metallic sheen and she felt her bones change into rods; her toned muscles and nerves became gears and circuit boards. Twilight, seemingly noticing her fear, spoke calmly and gently to her, in her distorted way.

“There is no need to worry, just breathe. It’s almost over. Just relax, you may be a little disoriented at first, but I’m here, just breathe.”

Chrysalis let her muscles relax, as the liquid metal picked up speed, swiftly enveloping her entire body, she could feel her veins and arteries turn into tubes, and as her face was covered by the strange slime, she blinked.

One moment, she saw Twilight plainly and the next, her eyes seemed different. She could clearly see Twilight, like before. However now she could also see gauges and figures indicating everything from physical to magical strength. And what she saw terrified her.

Twilight’s physical status was nothing special, but the magical potency gauge was maxed out, and still trying to go higher. According to her display, Twilight possessed enough magic to rival the Celestia and Luna of her realm.

Chrysalis opened her mouth to scream in surprise, only for her to feel the strange sensation of her jaw, teeth, and tongue being made of an unknown metal. She closed her jaw and opened it again, hearing the distinct sound of a hinge moving.

Twilight chuckled as Chrysalis noticed the gauges stated Twilight’s destructive potency was almost non-existent. How strange. Is this what she sees?

“I remember when I went through the transmutation, quite strange isn’t it? You wear it quite nicely, as well.”

Her eyes glowed for a moment and she grew serious again.

“Though you can’t leave the tent, not like that. If the members of our rebellion saw your face, all Tartarus would break loose. What to do?”

Chrysalis, however, wasn’t really paying attention. Instead, she was busy inspecting her new limbs; slowly lifting and moving her legs. This is so strange, is this really my foreleg? My hoof?

She could hear her every movement, and she could feel the weight of the solid metal, but it felt completely natural, almost like she had been an automaton her entire life. Fully immersed in the motion, she asked offhandedly.

“So, Starlight is the Princess of Friendship in this world?”

Chrysalis blinked; the ocular receptors that now comprised her eyes turning off and on again. Is that my voice? Her words sounded odd to her; like they were being spoken through a filter; distorted and metallic, like she now was.

Twilight looked at her with a curious expression.

“Well of course she is, who else would it be?”

Awkwardly, Chrysalis tried to run her hoof through her shimmering teal mane only to discover it passed right through. A hologram? How? Still contemplating this strange new reality, she responded hesitantly, still attempting to touch her mane.

“Well, in the world I came from, you… were.”

Twilight laughed, her metallic tone strangely conveying her joy at the statement.

“That’s amazing! No, I’m not the Princess of Friendship. I’m the Princess of Empathy. My specialty is understanding and comforting others. You’ll have to tell me all about the Twilight of your world, she sounds fascinating, but first I need you to do something for me.”

Sitting down to try and touch her now-holographic tail with her hoof, Chrysalis looked up as she continuously poked at it.

“What’s that?”

Smiling sweetly, Twilight made her request.

“We can’t have Overlord Chrysalis walking around the camp. Would you mind using your Changeling magic for me?”

Chrysalis placed her hoof under her chin, as she voiced her thoughts out loud.

“Overlord? And did you have a form in mind, Princess of Empathy?”

Twilight answered in a gleeful tone, causing Chrysalis to feel uneasy.

“Funny you should ask. I have the perfect idea in mind…”

Twilight’s eyes glowed with a bright amethyst as her mouth formed into a wide grin.

“…Chrysi.”

Chapter 4: The Weight of Her Smile

“Starlight, help me! What do I do?”

Chrysalis’s screams echoed throughout the Royal Hall of Canterlot Castle, reaching the ears of The Princess of Friendship. Blasting a mass of black slime that seemed to be coursing towards her, Starlight raced past Twilight, who was holding her own. The two shared a grim look as Starlight blasted her way towards the former villainess.

“I’m coming Chrysalis, don’t worry, I got-!”

Her words died in her throat as she reached Chrysalis; the blackish slime oozing into and out of the holes in her chitin. It was too late. Starlight stared at her in horror as Chrysalis succumbed to the vile goo.

She stood there, frozen in place, her eyes changing from her envious green hue to the appearance of a disgusting liquid tar; the last expression of fear and pleading, forever etched into Starlight’s mind. The holes of her body coursed and pulsed with the viscous slime, while a burst of unholy laughter filled the hallway. Her voice was grating, scraping, and dripped with maliciousness.

“You shall all perish! I will destroy it all!”

Suddenly, the Changeling was surrounded by a dark purple aura, moments before Luna cried out as her sister fell to the ground, a hole between her eyes; still sizzling with dark magic. In a rage, Luna flew at Chrysalis only to crash to the floor as her wings were sliced clean off; looking up at the ice-cold grin of Chrysalis as she, too, was eternally silenced.

Starlight screamed out at Chrysalis, just as Twilight, with the Elements beside her, grabbed Starlight’s hoof.

“We need to leave! Now!”

As the seven were teleported away, Starlight called out one last time.

“Chrysalis!”

***

The images faded and the world went dark, as Starlight’s visual interface flickered with light. The red screen had words in a black font scrawling across it:

Dream Sequence disengaged
Battery…100%
Concluding Recharge Cycle…
Recharge Cycle concluded
Beginning Reboot…
Core systems check…Successful
Initiating motor functions…

Sitting up on her mat, Starlight turned her head one way then the other, as though to look around her. Meanwhile, the interface continued its checklist.

Motor functions initiated.
Testing vocal capabilities…

Starlight let out a yawn, as she stretched her hooves out.

“I’m up! I’m up.”

Vocal capabilities successfully initiated.
Activating cognitive thinking module…

Rolling her eyes, Starlight thought to herself. Good morning world.

Initiated. Reboot complete. Good Morning Princess Starlight.

Starlight let out a sigh as the world finally came into view. That dream again. That same nightmarish moment that had replayed every recharge cycle for the past four years. I better check on the girls. Reaching up her hoof, she unplugged the cable from the jack in her neck, connecting her to the large mat she lay upon, and slowly rose to her hooves.

Lifting her hoof to separate the veil of ray shielding fabric that comprised the tent entrance, Starlight took a deep breath. Like she had for the past four years, she pasted that smile she didn’t feel on her face, before stepping into the street.

Like a switch had been flipped, the instant her hooves touched the scorched pavement, every creature around her ceased all activity to look at her. All conversation, all activity; from shoppers to the fillies playing tag amidst the blazing firestorm, all turned their eyes on her.

They depend on me. Show them it’s alright. Seeing her smile, made them all smile and with a flourish of her wings, all activity resumed once more. That’s right, everything is fine, go about your business. Folding her wings once more, she calmly and precisely walked towards a specially-constructed tent just across the way, behind a raging magma spurt. How long can this go on for, though? Aligning her ocular receptors to a sensor on the tent's entrance, Starlight heard the familiar hiss of the dual-layered ray shield deactivating. I just don’t know.

Peering inside, Starlight was surprised by what she saw. The Elements were silently splayed out on their mats; recharging like usual, but there were three others as well.

Snuggled up tightly under the wings of Rainbow Dash was a small, orange filly Pegasus with short unmistakable wings and a rustled purple holographic mane. Meanwhile, side by side with Applejack lay a pale yellow filly with a red, holographic mane. And finally, laying with her head against the flank of Rarity, was a small white Unicorn with a well-styled hologram of a pink mane and tail.

Scootaloo, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle. They aren’t supposed to be in here. How did they even get past security? All three were jacked into the recharge stations, and Starlight noticed Rarity’s eyes were open; that she was watching her sister, not moving a micron and wearing a small smile. Rarity’s eyes darted over to Starlight, and they dimmed forming a pleading expression.

Starlight just rolled her eyes in response, silently unfolding a wing and making a brushing motion with it; a signal of ‘leave it'. Rarity nodded and lay her head down, closing her eyes. I can’t even be mad, they look so adorable, fine, so be it.

At once, Rainbow and Applejack opened their eyes and both gave her appreciative glances, before closing them once more. Slowly, Rainbow wrapped her wings around Scootaloo, while Applejack gently nuzzled Applebloom before both lay completely still once more. Both wore smiles of satisfaction.

I’ve never seen those five look so peaceful while recharging in a long time. I’ll talk to Twilight about this becoming a regular thing for them. Silently turning away, Starlight left the Elements to rest with their squatters, a smile on her face as she wondered. Where did those extra cables come from though? This screams Pinkie Pie’s doing. Starlight gave a chuckle at the thought, as she walked towards the tent where she left her wife and Chrysalis waiting.

Walking through the ash-filled streets of her once beautiful city, Starlight spread her wings to push the never-ending flames aside. The fire-proof metal her body was made of stepped through an erupting plume of magma with ease. All the while, she wore that smile for her followers. Make sure they see it. I don’t need them worrying.

Stopping in front of the tent, she habitually took a deep breath, to calm her nerves. Remember, this isn’t her, this Chrysalis isn’t your enemy. Better bookmark that thought. Taking a moment to access her user interface, Starlight filed that thought away; bookmarked for later, just in case. With a heavy heart, she entered the tent and was completely dumbfounded.

Neither Chrysalis nor Twilight was anywhere to be seen, but before her was a mare that looked like a mix between her and Twilight. The mare spoke to her, in a voice that was almost like her own, though she heard Twilight’s vocal patterns as well.

“Mom said she will be back in a moment.”

Chapter 5: Compound Bonding

Starlight stared in disbelief at the mare. The hologram that made up both her mane and tail seemed to be the indigo of her wife, but flowing highlights of her own seafoam green stripe. The fur was a blend of both a lavender and lilac hue. The receptors of her eyes were a rich blue-violet. Huh, she doesn’t look that bad, still…

“What are you doing, Chrysalis?”

“I…Don’t really know.”

Starlight blinked. That response had taken her by surprise. Frantically, her processor tried to process the situation and now, it was returning nothing but errors. Startled, she shouted back.

“What do you mean, you don’t know?”

Scanning her, for any sign of what was going on; Starlight noticed Chrysalis was nervous as she shouted back.

“I mean I don’t know! One moment I was talking to Twilight about disguising myself and the next, I’m in this form and she informs me I am to call her mom and she would be back soon!”

Starlight looked down at the ground for a moment, deep in thought. Not a sound was made in the tent as she thought about the situation. Ok, so Twilight told her to do this. It was true, quite often Twilight and she had discussed having a filly of their own, but she never expected to suddenly have one, just like that; not to mention one that was fully grown. Even for a disguise this is overkill and she knows that.

Lost in thought, Starlight was well aware her wife was not given to flights of fancy, whether or not she would outright say it, Twilight always had a reason for her desires for other creatures. What would cause her to do this?

Breaking the silence, Chrysalis spoke up, clearly worried Starlight was mad. Looking at the Princess, she knew exactly how dangerous making her angry could be.

“Princess Starlight?”

Raising her head, Starlight took a deep breath, before smiling. So be it. I’ll trust her instincts.

“So, you’re my daughter now. Alright then, daughter of mine, what’s your name?”

“Erm, Twilight said Chrysi, Princess Starlight.”

Stamping her hoof down, Starlight shook her head dismissively.

“No, that will not do, at all.”

“I’m sorry-?”

Starlight nodded; interrupting her.

“You better be. If you are going to be my daughter, Chrysi, you will address me as Starlight, and only as Starlight. Have I made myself clear?”

“Yes, Starlight!”

Noticing the squeakiness of her voice, Starlight decided to alleviate her fears; if only to break the ice. In a strangely static-filled soft-spoken tone, she addressed her.

“Listen, Chrysalis. We both know what you see when you analyze my current state. The truth is, though I possess the ability to turn a being to ash; if I genuinely wanted to, nothing would stop me from doing so. If I wanted to hurt you, I would have already.”

“But what about earlier?”

Starlight sighed.

“I told you, it is hard seeing your face. Yes, I threatened you, and yes, I even charged up an attack. But I still knew you weren’t her. I wouldn’t have actually attacked you, still, she left a scar that won’t heal, and seeing your face brought it all back momentarily. I’ve had some time to vent my exhaust, so don’t worry, I won’t hurt you.”

An awkward silence followed, as Chrysalis in the guise of Chrysi, stared at the Princess; seeing the weary and nearly destroyed tone in her voice. Just as she was about to respond, however, a cheerful electronic voice called out to Starlight from the entrance.

“Hey honey, I’m home, do you mind helping me carry some of these packages?”

Startled, Starlight blinked and slowly stood up. Packages? Glancing at Chrysalis she simply said.

“Wait here.”

Walking outside, Starlight was greeted with Twilight surrounded by two dozen boxes; the contents of which could only be guessed at. Gesturing at the boxes, Twilight smiled sweetly at her.

“I could use a big strong Alicorn, to help me carry everything, know any?”

Starlight had started looking at the boxes; a charging mat, a full-sized personal database, a repair table, even a fridge, and four damaged cases of premium drinking oil.

“Twilight, why did you get all this?”

Ever-cheerful, Twilight laughed.

“Oh, I thought it would be nice to get some things for our new daughter.”

Nodding, Starlight then asked her, narrowing her eyes.

“Yeah, I wanted to ask you about that. Why did you do this?”

Twilight, who had been levitating the charging mat, replied flippantly.

“Oh, you know, for a disguise.”

Quick as a flash, Starlight pulled her closer to where no other pony could hear and whispered to her.

“Listen Twilight, I know you don’t do things at random. Tell me the truth, what’s going on?”

Twilight lowered her eyes, her voice filled with sorrow, scratchy like a particularly loved vinyl record.

“Starlight, she…Her world was attacked by the Smooze.”

Starlight’s eyes dimmed; feeling the fluid turn to ice in the tubes that were her arteries.

“What happened?”

Barely a whisper, Twilight answered her.

“They lost, she’s the only survivor.”

Still processing this, Starlight walked over to the boxes and her horn glowed; surrounding every package with her magic, causing them to rise off the ground as one. Before moving, she asked just one more question.

“How do you know?”

Twilight looked over to her and explained.

“She told me…While we were perfecting her transformation, she told me everything.”

Nodding, and without another word, Starlight marched into the tent with every box levitating behind her. Chrysalis stared at the sight, as Starlight silently set down and unpacked the contents of each box. The Princess never said a word as she hooked up the changing mat; placing it beside the other two. With Twilight watching, wings folded, from the entranceway and Chrysalis watching, Starlight set up each box's contents. Five awkwardly silent minutes later, Starlight turned and looked at Chrysalis, addressing her in a sudden manner, pointing at the charging mat.

“This is your new bed.”

Before a response could be made, she pointed at the database.

“This is your way to research the history of this world. Over there-”

Starlight pointed a wing at the miniature magically-infused dry ice fridge.

“That is yours. In it, you will store your oil. I don’t want it to go bad. After all, it takes a lot to snag some nowadays. The Overlord's guards are always on guard. Frankly, I'm surprised Twilight managed to steal this much for you. We can’t just buy you more. Enjoy it slowly.”

Suddenly she pointed a hoof at Chrysalis.

“Your name is Chrysi from here on out. And you are my daughter. You will refer to me and my wife; Twilight, as Mother.”

Running forward she grabbed Chrysi in a fierce hug, whispering softly.

“Welcome home, my daughter.”

At a loss, Chrysi looked over at Twilight, who just smiled lovingly at the sight, the LED’s of her ocular receptors a softer amethyst than usual. Chrysi closed her eyes and wrapped her hooves around Starlight; returning the hug.

"Thanks, mom."

Chapter 6: Corrupted Data on Her Hard drive

In the once fertile plains outside Canterlot, the cyan sheen of a metallic Pegasus, possessing a holographic mane of many colors, glinted in the glow of the midnight sun. Rainbow Dash sat wings hunched like a gargoyle; ready to spring into action at any moment, as she watched the fillies playing in the massive lava flow.

Her display read 11:00 PM, but that was of little concern. The day and night cycles hadn’t existed for a long time, and the moon never shone in the sky, while the sun never set. The ponies simply recharged when low on power, and went on with their activities until it was time to recharge again.

Rainbow was elated as she watched Scootaloo slicing through the molten waves, and having a good time. Her eyes went wide as Scootaloo, flapping her tiny wings, slowly rose out of the lava; lifted by a hoof rising from beneath the waves.

Seemingly effortlessly, a Unicorn mare used her hoof to lift Scootaloo a few feet above the waves as she rose from the superheated depths. She laughed, as Scootaloo continued flapping her wings.

“Look how high you’re flying, Scootaloo!”

Still flapping her wings rapidly, Scootaloo giggled, while Applebloom and Sweetie Belle cheered; splashing about, clapping their hooves at the sight and calling out.

“Me next, me next, Chrysi!”

“I wanna fly too!”

Rainbow Dash allowed a rare smile to grace her face; it wasn’t often the fillies got to have an outing, and to top it off, that new Unicorn was really meshing well with them.

According to Rainbow’s sensors, the lava flows were just under 2,100 degrees Fahrenheit, not that it really mattered. Since the metal their flesh consisted of was completely immune to the detrimental effects of the liquifying temperatures, they felt nothing but the fluidity of the molten rock.

Watching over them, as they were splashing about, Rainbow Dash thought about the conversation the Elements had with the three fillies earlier.

***

“Play with a mare? As in, an adult, sis?”

Looking at her friends, Scootaloo wore a confused expression as she spoke to her adopted big sister; Rainbow Dash.

Remaining silent, Rainbow Dash just nodded, her brow furrowed in furious thought, while Rarity stepped forward and spoke up.

“Darling, it’s not as simple as that. You see, the mare in question is special needs.”

Now it was Sweetie Belle’s turn to be confused as she looked from Applebloom to Scootaloo.

“What’s ‘special needs’ mean?”

Applejack stepped forward and tried a more direct approach.

“It means she has PTSD, Sugarcube.”

Sweetie Belle blinked.

“What is PTSD?”

Just as Rarity and Applejack were about to answer, Rainbow Dash held up a hoof, stopping them. She spoke softly, barely more than a whisper, but it carried such authority it was heard by all present.

“I’ll handle this, girls.”

Raising the volume on her words, Rainbow Dash spoke gently, her voice lacking the normal static-filled rasp it usually carried. For those who knew her, it was clear she related heavily to the subject at hoof.

“Scootaloo, do you remember when Cloudsdale was annihilated by the Overlord?”

All present, stiffened as Scootaloo’s eyes went wide and she lowered her head towards the ground, her flightless wings limp and drooped on her back. Turning from her, Rainbow looked pointedly at Applebloom.

“And do you remember when your brother and grandmother died protecting you, while Applejack carried you out of Sweet Apple Acres?”

Applejack spoke up as Applebloom looked down and pawed at the charred ground.

“Rainbow, what are you-”

But Rainbow Dash wasn’t done, turning her attention to Sweetie Belle.

“And when your Boutique went up in flames, tell me, do you remember?”

This time Rarity’s eyes went wide as Sweetie Belle gave a whimper.

Applejack angrily stamped her hoof.

“Rainbow that was completely uncalled for!”

Ignoring her, Rainbow looked at all three and her eyes narrowed coldly.

“It hurts doesn’t it? The memories of those events. Believe me, I know that agony well. Now take that pain you feel and multiply it by a thousand; that is what that mare is going through every moment of every day.”

The three fillies stopped scuffing at the ground with their hooves and looked up, their eyes dimmed and a concerned expression on their startled faces.

“W-what?”

Rainbow knelt down and wrapped the three in a gentle hug with her wings.

“You three lost some really important things, but she watched as every creature and everything she ever cared about was taken from her, forever. She has no one and nothing because it was stolen from her. Her mind replays that over and over and though she may appear to be a mare, she’s nothing but a scared, insecure filly right now and she needs your support. After all, how would you feel, if you had no friends to help you when you were saddest?”

Applebloom shivered and looked at her two friends, shaking her head at the thought.

“Th-that’s horrible!”

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle nodded furiously in agreement.

“Y-yeah.”

“I can’t even imagine such a thing.”

Rainbow sat back down her brow once more furrowed in thought, as Applejack stepped forward.

“That’s why we need you to play with her; treat her like a regular filly. Can you do that for us, Sugarcubes? We would really appreciate it, and I bet she would too.”

Applebloom grinned.

“Yeah, what do you say girls?”

As three hooves connected in a hoofbump, the little Unicorn, Pegasus and Earthpony shouted as one to the heavens.

“The Cutiemark Crusaders are on the job!”

While the three fillies cheered at the idea of making a new friend, Applejack and Rarity simultaneously placed a hoof on both of Rainbow Dash’s shoulders. The two of them spoke tenderly to her.

“We’re here for you, Sugarcube.”

“Yes, Darling! We aren’t going anywhere.”

***

Her thoughts interrupted by a sudden noise behind her, Rainbow Dash gave a grim smile; slowly turning around while flaring her metallic wings to their full width. I know your pain, Chrysalis. I was alone when I came to this world too. What she did next, only Chrysi observed; just happening to turn at the right moment, to witness Rainbow Dash’s speed as she tore apart what appeared to be a living black skeleton with her bare hooves.

Even though she saw it, she was almost certain her sensors were playing tricks on her; in just the span of the time it took to blink, Rainbow had dispatched the figure and was sitting in the exact same perched pose she had been.

Chrysi, however, had no time to process what she had seen, as all around the lava bank, the same black skeletons rose out of the ground. There were dozens of them, causing the fillies to scream as they scrambled to get to a safe area. Rainbow Dash had gone into overdrive, darting around at a speed, their receptors could barely follow; tearing into the skeletons with an almost predatory ferocity.

Chrysi felt paralyzed. She couldn’t move as she stared at one of the black skeletons; and watched the viscous black ooze that coated the decaying bones, dripping off them onto the scorched earth with a sizzle. No. It couldn’t be, Chrysi thought, as it slogged its way through the lava towards her.

***

As Twilight was pulled into the slimy substance, she gave Chrysalis a magical shove into the portal, crying out.

“Please…Don’t forget us!”

***

That moment flashed before her eyes; running rampant in her core memory files and seizing control of her thought processes. Not again. I won’t forgive. She watched, unable to move as one of the skeletons turned towards Scootaloo. She closed her eyes. Not again! She wanted to scream. That ooze, that horrible slime that took everything from her. Not again, you can’t, I won’t forgive you! It was back to take it all away again.

From her horn erupted a glowing bright green glow. Not again. Chrysi’s eyes flew open as the green glow enveloped her body, causing her to slowly rise out of the lava. Never again! Tilting her head back, she screamed as a bright green glow exploded outward.

“Never again! I won’t forgive you! You can’t have them!”

Her metal contracted and expanded, as she grew to forty times her own height. Her head grew larger, flattening to a point, while her mouth was filled with hundreds of fanged metal teeth. Her forelegs became elongated and ended in fearsome hooked claws, while her hind legs became reaching legs ending in flesh-rending talons. Her eyes took on a sinister serpentine gaze, as countless blackened scales of an unidentified metal erupted across her form, covering her body.

Chrysi let out a fearsome roar and took flight. She circled the lava banks from the air, disintegrating the entire skeleton army in the unholy glow of her emerald flame; Her long tail slammed down as she blasted the banks, again and again.

Rainbow Dash tore the skull from the last skeleton, shattering it in her hooves as she stopped and stared in disbelief at the sight. That’s amaz-…wait. Horsefeathers!

Chrysi, the black dragon, was thrashing around in a rage; blasting the area with a wreath of green fire, over and over, with no awareness of her surroundings.

Using her blinding speed and unnatural strength Rainbow grabbed the three fillies' unconscious bodies, each possessing mysterious scorch marks across their metal plating; courtesy of the emerald flames. She’s completely out of control. I have to get the Princesses!

Flinging the fillies onto her back, Rainbow Dash frantically spread her wings and took off for the camp at top speed; behind her the tormented roars of the rampaging dragon echoing across the devastated landscape.

Chapter 7: Overclocking-Part One

Twilight lay on the hillside, underneath the radiant beams of a silvery full moon. Laying beneath the shaggy star-filled wooly blanket, she rested her head on the flank of Starlight; the warmth of her partner’s body giving her unending comfort. Both lay there, as the wind gently swept across the rolling pasture, watching the silvery stars of the night sky.

“Comfortable?”

Twilight laughed as Starlight gave a playful wiggle, and rolled over, before nestling in beside her.

“Very.”

Draping a wing over Twilight, Starlight gently nuzzled her.

“Good.”

Twilight gave a contented sigh, before asking her partner.

“Do you ever miss doing this? The grass, the moon and stars?”

Starlight thought about it for a moment, before replying.

“Not really.”

Taken by surprise Twilight asked her, why not?

Gently kissing her forehead, Starlight said softly.

“The grass, moon, the stars and even this hilltop, none of it mattered to me, Twilight. The only thing I miss from those days, is being able to feel the warmth of your body as you lay next to mine.”

Twilight playfully rolled into Starlight.

“You are so cheesy sometimes, honey.”

Starlight giggled.

“Well, you are the one who proposed those decades ago, so I must’ve been doing something right."

Laughter erupted from both, as Twilight gave a slightly less humored sigh.

“I suppose it’s time we go back. Thanks for the lovely evening, sweetie.”

Starlight nodded.

“It was wonderful, thank you for watching the stars with me.”

Sharing a final kiss, both shouted.

“End Date Simulation!”

***

Both Starlight and Twilight sat up, opening their eyes. Sharing a glance, the two mechanical Alicorns reached up and disconnected the cord that connected them, from the jacks located beneath their right ears; the real world coming into view once more.

Rising wearily, Starlight grimaced as the groaning of the stressed gears in her legs could be heard. Unfolding her wings with a scraping squeal, the sound of rusting metal struts echoed throughout the tent. Twilight stared at her partner.

“Starlight…”

Ignoring her, Starlight sighed, finally standing fully erect. Before her eyes, she watched a warning indicator telling her she had 3% battery left; for the past five days, she had spent every waking moment with Chrysi, teaching her how to use her new body and control her emotions. She had skipped multiple recharge cycles and she was feeling it. Although she had a greater energy pool as an Alicorn, Starlight knew she was running on fumes.

She felt the groaning of her body, the non-stop use of her metallic form causing dangerous stress between her gears, and the various parts of her body were threatening to fracture under the over-use. Not only that but she had also been skipping the daily oil baths that were a necessity for the robotic ponies, her metallic flesh had begun rusting and her wings strained to unfold.

“Starlight.”

Though still gentle, Twilight’s words were more firm. Starlight, however, started towards the tent entrance.

“I’m going to go check on Chrysi.”

Twilight suddenly slammed her hoof down with an audible thud. Dropping the gentleness, she sharply shouted.

“Starlight!”

Starlight turned to look at her, the creaking and whining of metal making Twilight wince; the squealing constantly ringing in her audio receptors.

“What, Twilight?”

Smiling sweetly, Twilight told her.

“You are taking today off.”

Starlight just stared at Twilight for a moment and let out a weary sigh.

“Twilight, I have to go check on…”

Starlight, being lifted into the air already by a levitation spell, face hoofed as Twilight smirked.

“Nope. You are taking today to relax.”

Walking over to the Princess, Twilight gently nuzzled her before whispering softly.

“Listen, sweetie. You carry a heavy weight; the weight of all life on this planet.”

Her eyes dimming slightly, Twilight spoke mournfully.

“The last remains of life on this planet that is.”

Her eyes brightened and smiling, she vigorously tickled Starlight with her metallic feathers; Starlight rolling her eyes at the taunting gesture, being completely unable to feel it.

“Starlight, I am so proud of you for taking your new role as a mother this seriously. Even though our new bundle of joy has a bit of a scratched hard drive, I can see how much you are doing for her. What with informing the Elements of her errors and glitches so they can work with her as well. Be that as it may, you are shouldering far too much.”

Sitting on her haunches, Twilight shook her head, her energetic tone gone, and the LEDs that made up her ocular receptors dimmed in sorrow.

“When they fell, you took up the mantle; when the countries of Equus, those countless lives were lost to that vile abomination-”

Starlight stiffened as she levitated at the mention of her one failure; the one she couldn’t save. Twilight continued.

“You led the way. They look to you for strength, I look to you for strength. You know that. But what do you think will happen if you do your rounds like this; in your rusted, stressed, and exhausted state? Sweetie, we are a team, and you are not alone; and right now, you are on the verge of breaking down; you are trying too hard to be everything to every creature. We are a team, you need to let me carry some of that responsibility. So do me a favor.”

Twilight stood up and lowered Starlight to the ground, pulling her in a hug with her wings, as she whispered in her wife’s ear.

“Take today off, and get refreshed. I can handle your side of things for one day, while you enjoy a day of pampering maintenance over at the RariBelle Workshop.”

Starlight just nodded. Her battery was just too low to formulate words, and besides, she had to admit a full twenty-four hours of non-stop pampering, metalwork massages, recharge and oil soak sessions, sounded amazing.

The oil used by the sisters was their own blend; surprisingly conjured by Sweetie Belle, who specialized in magical chemical mixtures, mixing it with solvents and cleaners for rust and corrosion, as well as an alchemical element that would soak into fractures and magically weld them shut. Rarity on the other hoof was widely known for her metalwork massages; smoothing and hammering out any wrinkles or folds upon the transmuted skin.

Twilight grinned, satisfied.

“Good, now let me contact her and get you all set up.”

***

Rarity stood in a candlelit room, gently pressing her hooves down on the torso of her last customer of the day; the metal bending and smoothing out beneath the light pressure being placed on it. The griffon let out a light cooing as the stress between her joints was greatly lessened.

“Oh, that’s the spot. Right…There.”

Rarity smiled at the reaction. She provided this service to any and all free of charge, but only once a week per customer. The oils soaked into the transmuted skin and made it pliable between her hooves. Slowly she increased the pressure, causing ripples amidst the alchemical metal, which she then smoothed out.

“Darling, what have you been doing to warrant such wear and tear on this gorgeous chassis of yours, Gilda?”

Gilda let out a sigh of contentedness, as Rarity slowly moved down her front, within a moment she heard her talons being bent and shaped to be completely rebuilt and like new again. Though she couldn’t feel it, she could see her own diagnostic display embedded into the ceiling above her head. Her entire mechanical form was displayed with heat signatures indicating exactly where the fractures, cracks, and stressed gears were within her body.

“Been running with the scouting parties for possible expansion of Starlight’s territory. same as last week.”

Nonchalantly, Rarity covered her hooves with a malleable metal and began pulling the griffon’s wingtip. Tugging on, stretching, and smoothing the creases as the liquified metal moved down her hooves, seeking out the cracks and pits in the metallic plumage.

“How many this time?”

Gilda hesitated to answer the question. She knew what Rarity was really asking. Not how many died, or how many came back. How many of the fallen had she recognized? That was what she was asking and every week it was the same question. And this time, she knew the answer would break Rarity’s heart.

“One.”

Rarity laughed as she levitated a bottle of polish to finish applying the final touch-ups to Gilda’s metallic sheen.

“Just one? So then darling, whose unfortunate soul did you come across this time?”

“Rainbow Dash.”

Rarity stiffened at the name, the bottle of metal polish clattering as it hit the floor and rolled under the repair table.

Gilda asked her softly.

“Are you alright?”

Taking a deep breath and trying to contain her emotions, Rarity levitated the bottle off the floor, apologizing.

“Sorry about that darling, I was just a bit surprised, that’s all.”

Her voice dropped to a slightly bitter whisper. Shortly after the Smooze became one with Chrysalis, it used her magic to raise those it absorbed, bones and all. Rainbow Dash, or at least the one of their world, had gone down protecting her friends. She had also been the first to be reanimated by the Smooze.

“So, you saw Dash, huh? How’s that mare doing?”

“Well, for a reanimated corpse, she isn’t looking so bad, though her mane is gone. Her bones were a bit charred as well, though surprisingly her face was mostly intact. You, uh, sure you’re okay?”

Rarity stayed silent for a moment, before letting out a sigh and gently coating her talons with polish.

“I’m fine Gilda, honest, it was just a shock hearing she was roaming around once more. Besides. Our Rainbow died a long time ago, I watched her perish, myself, as Ponyville fell. Nothing I say…”

Rarity gestured to her horn with her hooves.

“Or cast, can bring her back, darling.”

Gilda smiled, as she rose from the table and admired her metallic body as it shimmered and sparkled in the candlelight.

“You really do some amazing work. I look fresh off the assembly line.”

Pausing for a moment as she folded her wings, Gilda spoke gently as she pulled Rarity into a hug.

“It’s alright.”

Gilda let her go and headed for the tent entrance. Pausing, she looked back, her eyes dimming momentarily.

“I miss her too, Rarity. We all do. Try and smile, though. She wouldn't think it was very cool of us to be sad for her. I’ll see you next week.”

Grinning broadly, Gilda turned and left the workshop. Rarity watched her go, and gave a soft smile, whispering.

“Very cool, indeed darling. Hm?”

Her transmitter was going off. Looking at her battery indicator that now stated 15%, she answered it. She had been ready to head to the back, to jack in, recharge, and call it a day; waiting for Sweetie Belle to get back from her outing with the CMC’s and Chrysi.

“Darling! This is Rarity, what can I do for you Twilight…Hm? Oh my. She’s in that bad of shape?... I see… Closed for the day? Not at all, bring her in…Hm?... Yes Darling, now is fine. Bring her in. Twenty-four hours? No, it’s absolutely no trouble Darling.”

15%. Rarity was tired and expected no more customers for the current cycle. 15%. Rarity smiled. 15%, barely enough energy to last another eight hours. 15%. Twenty-four more hours? She wasn’t sure she could do it.

“I’ll be waiting, Darling. See you soon.”

At least, not alone. Rarity brought up her interface, scrolling her contacts and selecting a name. She smiled.

“Fluttershy, it’s Rarity. Can you come to the workshop, Darling? I got a special case on the way, and she could use a bit of your Kindness.”

The other end was silent for a moment before Rarity heard a silky voice speak in a barely audible whisper.

“Kindness? Oh my, y-yes, I’ll be right down.”

Chapter 8: Overclocking-Part Two

With an audible clicking, Fluttershy turned off the transmitter and called out as loudly as she could, though still barely audible for most.

“Kindness! Here girl!”

In the backroom of the divided tent, a loud squeal of delight was followed by a loud scuffle as something started her way. Waiting patiently, Fluttershy’s vocal emitter gave a sharp whistle that filled the tent, causing a loud squealing as a strange object darted out of the back, and slithered across the floor towards her.

Clearly unbothered by this, Fluttershy gestured encouragingly at it with her metal hoof.

“C’mon sweetie, Rarity has a special treat for you.”

Picking up speed, the strange object reached her forehoof. It resembled a living carpet of metallic composition, possessing no eyes and yet it seemed to be able to see just fine. Fluttershy smiled at it, as it swiftly slithered up her forehoof and onto her back where it contently curled up, and seemed to emit a gentle cooing noise though it had no visible mouth; almost like purring. Fluttershy giggled at it.

“That’s my good girl.”

Still smiling, Fluttershy took a moment to look at a framed picture on the wall; though the edges were charred, the image was still very much visible. A large serpentine-like being; possessing both the clawed talons of a griffon and the paws of a manticore. A male, the back of his neck was lined with a zebra’s mane, while his tail possessed ruby red dragon scales. His eyes were bright yellow with glowing red irises; almost chaotic in nature. And in his manticore paw, he held a small white rabbit.

Her eyes slightly dimmed as she viewed it, but she kept her sunny smile. She spoke to the pair lovingly.

“Alright boys, watch the house while I’m gone. And Angel, be good for Daddy. I’ll be back soon. “

I’ll be back soon. The last words she got to say to them four years ago. If only she had known, what else would she have said to them, to him? Shaking her head, she banished her forlorn reminiscing to the back of her mind. No time for that now. Tickling the cooing aberration on her back with a hoof, she smiled as it squealed in joy.

“Come on, Kindness, Rarity is waiting for us.”

Lifting the flap, and playing an unknown whistling track, she stepped through the ray shielding, that protected her belongings and into the hellish inferno of the camp. Though the flames raged all around her, her sensors allowed her to ignore and see through the eternal firestorm. Her metallic Pegasus form shone brightly with a stunning pale yellow. Meanwhile, her holographic mane and tail were a silky cotton candy pink, and the LEDs in her ocular receptors a soft baby blue.

“Doctor Shy, is that you?”

Stopping for a moment, Fluttershy turned towards the speaker and smiled brightly. Through the flames stepped an equine-like creature with a brilliant white fur coat, with dragon scale-like plates on the bridge of her muzzle and lining the top of her back. A Kirin. The holographic design of her mane and tail were that of a lion’s and boasted a rich mahogany color. The horn on the mare’s head was a uniquely twisted variety and was a dark red in color.

“Autumn Blaze! H-how have you been?”

The words were barely a whisper, but Autumn heard them as clear as day. Her voice was like that of a whimsical melody; filled to the brim with optimism.

“OMS! I’ve been doing great! I just went to one of Pinkie’s parties! It was so much fun!”

Fluttershy chuckled to herself; Pinkie had that effect on any and all creatures that attended her parties. So much so in fact, when any creature felt down, they were sent to the Party Tent to get back their smile by a royal command prompt of the princesses.

Glancing at the back of Autumn, Fluttershy smiled at the transmuted ball python gently draped over her shoulders. It stared back at her, giving a soft hiss of contentment, as she gently ran her hoof along its spine.

“I’m so happy for you. And how is little Feyfyre doing?”

Autumn grinned, still riding the excitement wave that was Pinkie’s party, as she practically sang out.

“She is doing so much better! You were right about changing her diet to a less mineral-intensive oil. She hasn’t had any scale build-up in her mouth since! And she has been a lot calmer as well. Isn’t that right, sweetie?”

Fluttershy nodded and cheerfully told her how wonderful that was, right as a joyous squeal erupted from the strange aberration on Fluttershy’s back. Both Fluttershy and Autumn watched in shock and awe as Kindness launched itself off Fluttershy’s back and landed on Feyfyre.

Fluttershy chuckled at the display remarking in a clear, gentle, and concise voice.

“It would seem Kindness has detected a bit of rust on Feyfyre. When’s the last time she had an oil bath?”

Kindness slowly crept along the snake’s metallic scales making strange sucking sounds, the snake staying completely still, continuing to hiss softly. If anything, it seemed to be enjoying the experience. Autumn blinked for a moment before looking down and scuffing her hoof, responding nervously.

“Ponyfeathers! I completely forgot about that.”

Fluttershy laughed and shook her head while whispering soothingly.

“Having a pet is a big responsibility Autumn, remember, she needs the maintenance as much as you do. And even more so, since she can’t do it herself.”

Autumn lowered her eyes at the lecture being given, but she also knew that Fluttershy only wanted Feyfyre to be well. Ever since the transmutation event, all organic life had been transformed into fully metallic machines; including the remaining wildlife and pets. Fluttershy had swiftly adapted to this and took to caring for these new forms.

As the camp’s Metallurgy Veterinarian, Fluttershy ran a clinic, for the residential metal life; everything from welding their joints to checking wear and tear on their metal frames. Diagnostics and repairs, Fluttershy was well-versed in both and none doubted her affinity for the animalistic constructs.

“I’m sorry, Doctor Shy I-”

Fluttershy’s demeanor changed in a hoofbeat as she lifted Autumn’s chin and smiled sweetly.

“I’m not mad. Just file a little reminder for an oil bath once a week. Kindness has no trouble fixing the rust, so if you would like just bring Feyfyre in once a week. Look how happy Feyfyre is now.”

The ball python having been thoroughly scraped of any build-up, now sparkled a beautiful banana yellow in the sunlight, and hissed happily, almost seemingly conversing with the aberration as it leaped back onto Fluttershy’s back; its meal now completed and fully content. It began to purr once more, as Fluttershy gently tickled it with her hoof.

The Kirin stared in amazement at the peculiar living metal, grateful and yet, unsure of what to say. While all in the camp knew of Kindness, no creature knew what exactly it was, including Fluttershy. Created by Sweetie Belle when a mixture of mineral oil magically fused with some liquid plating; creating a magical reaction, the living metallic carpet had been aggressive.

Originally it had actively attacked the ponies of the camp, chewing on their metal exteriors, much to every creature’s chagrin. Just as the Princess was preparing to deal with the troublesome and shivering aberration, Fluttershy had stepped in and amidst much amazement, gently tickled it with her hoof causing it to purr. Every creature was surprised at it purring like a cat, and when Fluttershy had a heart to heart with it, learned that the poor creature was scared and hungry.

Soon after, it was determined it was a beneficial parasite-like creature; feeding on rust, limescale, and all forms of corrosion; and so Fluttershy trained the aberration to ‘clean’ animal and creature metallic forms, alike.

Autumn Blaze smiled at Kindness.

“Thank you…um…little girl…guy…uh?”

Looking at Fluttershy for a hint, she was surprised when Fluttershy just giggled.

“Kindness isn’t really really either of those, so either works just fine and both work just as well, though I call it a ‘she’. If you really want to praise her though, gently run your hoof down her middle. She really enjoys that.”

Still confused by the odd remark, Autumn reached out her hoof and trailed it down the middle of the metallic carpet, only to be greeted by a loving purr. Autumn chuckled at the display, as Kindness turned over suddenly and stretched out for more pets like a playful puppy. Fluttershy nodded as Autumn continued petting it.

“See? She responds to touch and appreciates that more than any praise words could give. Oh my Starlight, I almost forgot! Rarity! Sorry Autumn, I-I gotta get going.”

***

Walking through the tent flap, Fluttershy was greeted by a pretty grim-faced Twilight standing over a repair table; on which lay the still form of Starlight. She seemed to be coated wingtips to hooves with horrible scale, grease, and rust buildup. Instantly the familiar squealing of Kindness’s excitement filled the tent as the little carpet launched itself onto the Alicorn.

Walking over to Twilight, who watched as Kindness slowly crept along Starlight’s body, Fluttershy addressed her with her ever soft voice, though clearly concerned, even if it was barely audible.

“Twilight, what happened?”

Sighing, the Alicorn Princess continued to watch as Kindness enjoyed its equivalent of a luxurious feast with little squeals here and there, explaining with a sad smile.

“She ran out of battery power and shut down as I carried her here. Starlight’s been overclocking her central processing unit, trying to handle everything herself. It was a bit more than she could handle at once.”

Coming out of the back, where she had been preparing a warm oil soak, Rarity told Twilight.

“Oh Darling, don’t you worry, after sixteen hours her batteries will be fully recharged and you can bet, that I’ll have her looking and feeling like a brand new unit in no time afterward.”

Fluttershy stayed silent as she stared at Rarity, clearly seeing her fatigue that she was desperately trying to hide. So, it’s not just Starlight. No wonder you called me. However, refusing to soil Rarity’s pride in her own Generosity, Fluttershy just faked a smile and agreed.

“Oh y-yes. Once Kindness removes all the impurities on her frame, we can lower her into the oil together, and jack her in for a wonderful soak and recharge session.”

Twilight nodded, satisfied at the response. She hadn’t been fooled for a second at the bad acting of the two. Knowing they didn’t want her to worry and were willing to help each other through it, was fine with her. I’ll let them have this.

Twilight decided Starlight was in good hooves and stepped through the ray shielding to attend her daily duties. That’s when she noticed a dot on the horizon growing swiftly larger as it headed towards the camp’s direction and her audio receptors picked up a faint shouting emitting from the object. What’s this now?

***

The instant Twilight left the tent Fluttershy pointed a metallic hoof at a charging mat in the corner.

“Recharge Rarity, now. W-we both know you're low on power.”

Rarity didn’t bother to argue, her battery indicator saying 10%, and gave a grateful smile to her friend as Fluttershy gave her a hug, and whispered softly.

“I’ll handle this, y-you recharge those batteries, That way you’ll be fully energized when it comes time to hammer out the imperfections.”

As Rarity jacked in and powered down, Fluttershy turned to see Kindness hopping off a perfectly polished Starlight onto her back once more. Slowly running her hoof along its supposed back, she listened as the aberration let out a squeak of contentment before a loud purring issued from it.

“That’s my good girl, now let’s get the Princess into her oil soak.”

Chapter 9: Empathy.EXE

Twilight stood there in silence as Rainbow Dash flew in for a landing, calling out to her. The Princess was more focused on the three powered down forms of the fillies on Rainbow’s back; having immediately started a scan of them.

Whereas Starlight could be quite compulsive, unlike her partner, Twilight refused to act without understanding everything about a situation; sometimes to her detriment. She would calmly analyze every possible detail before moving a single hoof. While this particular habit had led to many mishaps, it had led to many more favorable situations.

The Elements were well aware of this; especially the fact that while scanning, Twilight wouldn’t respond, move or even acknowledge their existence before her scan was over. Seeing Twilight scanning her, Rainbow fell silent. Though she didn’t know what exactly Twilight saw, Rainbow knew she had a reason for it.

No creature knew what it was Twilight saw when she performed her scans; what they did know was she was the only one who could perform such a scan. Her scans seemed to tell her everything from external to internal issues both physical and mentally related. After performing them, Twilight somehow knew everything about what caused the issues and she never failed to say exactly what was needed to be heard at just that moment. And so Rainbow waited patiently, not moving a rivet while the scan took place.

Meanwhile, Twilight silently ran her scan of Applebloom:

Initiating Empathy.EXE…
Designation: Applebloom Apple
Beginning preliminary scan of exterior…
Detected: Burns of unknown origin…
Location: Exterior. Burn indicators on Chasis, Left Foreleg, and Neck.

I see that. Her barrel is scarred by strange scorch marks, there’s more on her left foreleg and her neck, too. Strange.

Comparing pattern to known burn causes...
Fire Damage: Negative

Agreed. She is immune to flames, fire wouldn’t do this.

Electrical burn: Match found…

You may be right. These burn scars are reminiscent of Electrical burns. The exterior seems to have been scorched by an arced current. We agree on the cause, but how and what does it mean?

Reason: Inconclusive…
Continuing Scan…
Interior Scan initiated…
CPU shows signs of electrical arcing…
Chassis contains shorted wiring…
Foreleg has a broken rod…
Core Systems are non-responsive…
Conclusion: Applebloom has suffered an EMP discharge.

I agree. Applebloom has suffered an electrical discharge that has disrupted her functions…I see. She was knocked unconscious, and due to the strain on her frame from the sudden shutdown, her foreleg snapped from stressed metal. Repairable. And the others?

After a minute of analyzing the two, Twilight concluded they too, had suffered almost exactly the same fate as Applebloom. Hm, I see. And Rainbow didn’t get away unscathed either, but my daughter is nowhere to be seen. So the question is…

Shutting down the executable, Twilight sighed and looked the Pegasus straight in her Magenta-colored LEDs; her voice wasn’t raised, more like she was disappointed as she asked Rainbow Dash.

“Rainbow, Chrysi did this, didn’t she?”

The lights in Rainbow’s ocular receptors dimmed as she lowered her head; almost as if ashamed to answer. That movement alone, however, told the Princess of Empathy everything she needed to know. After a moment of silence, Twilight smiled, and in a gentle, almost loving voice asked Rainbow.

“I see, alright don’t worry I’ll handle it. You were swimming over by the ruins of Pinkie’s Rock Farm, weren’t you?”

Rainbow head still lowered, nodded. Her words filled with bitterness

“Yes, and then she- and I couldn’t even do anything!”

Twilight’s horn glowed with a bright amethyst and a bright flash of light came forth; saying one last thing to Rainbow.

“You did good Rainbow, it wasn’t your fault. And about my daughter, we’ll take care of it, don’t worry.”

With those words, she was gone. Rainbow raised her head, a confused look on her face. Did Twilight say ‘we’? Unsure of what she meant, Rainbow instead focused on the other part; she really needed to hear that. It wasn’t my fault. She could tell that Twilight had been talking about something that had been on her mind for years. Rainbow smiled, Twilight always knew just what to say.

Raising her head and feeling surprisingly more energized, Rainbow carried the three fillies on her back as she headed towards Applejack’s tent. These three need repairs, As she walked, Rainbow grimly entertained herself by practicing what she would say to Applejack about Applebloom’s condition.

So Applejack, your sister that you trusted me with got fried. Oh yeah, AJ is gonna disassemble me for this one. And then there was Rarity’s sister as well. As for Scootaloo, though the filly was an orphan, Rainbow was mentally tearing out her own metal feathers for letting her adopted sister get injured. I’ll definitely be visiting the Party Tent after this. By Starlight’s wings, I could just dismantle somepony for a cold cider, I miss that taste.

Looking up at the never-ending sun as she entered Applejack’s tent, Rainbow sighed in resignation. I miss sharing it with you girls, too.

***

Twilight looked on at the metal dragon as it showered the landscape with emerald flame. Watching the erratic thrashing of the roaring form her adopted child Changeling had taken, Twilight took in the sight with a slightly saddened smile. A dragon, huh? What do you think? It kind of fits, doesn’t it?

Receiving no answer, Twilight rolled the lights in her eyes, before bringing up her extensive mental library in her HUD. C’mon you, time to wake up. I need your help. She smiled as the familiar screen of green appeared, with its scrawling blue text:

Initiating Empathy.EXE…
Designation: Chrysi Glimmer (AKA) Queen Chrysalis
Model: Changeling Monarch…
Status: Dragon? ERROR
Dragon: Extinct
Inconclusive data found…

Don’t forget Changeling transformation magic, that is why she is in that form. My question is why?

Affirmative. New Query: “Why Chrysi transformed?”
Query accepted…
Gathering data…
Beginning Exterior Scan…
No Physical damage detected…

I don’t think this is physical this time, do me a favor and scan for any unusual behavior.

Affirmative. Scanning…
Anomaly Detected: Quivering with 2 degrees of deviation…
Reason: Shivering…
Conclusion: Inconclusive.

See anything else? She wouldn’t be shivering for no reason.

Scanning…
Detected: Unusual roaring frequency, deviation in normal pitch by 10 decibels…
Reason: Screaming…
Tone indicates fear…
Conclusion: She is currently scared.

Is there anything around here that could have scared her? I don’t think she would just go ballistic after the training Starlight gave her with her emotions. Do me a favor, scan the surroundings, there has to be more to this.

Scanning…
Anomaly Detected: Bone Shards…

Wait, bone shards? Where?

Fragments located 2 clicks south, 4 clicks northwest, and 2 clicks east…
Conclusion: Result of Combat

Hm. Empathy, can you determine what the bone fragments belong to? Specifically, what creatures they were?

Affirmative that is doable…

Please do so.

Gathering Data…
Scanning…
Confirmed: Several Species Identified…
Conclusion: Remains are of Dragon, Changeling, Earthpony, Pegasi, Unicorn, Yak, Hippogriffin, Griffon

I see. I was right. Rainbow’s group was attacked by the Smoozlings. Chrysi became a dragon to fight them. But what about the EMP source?

No source located…
Cause: Unknown…
Conclusion: Inconclusive

While Twilight pondered this mystery a wayward blast of emerald fire shot towards her. Reacting with her Alicorn’s grace, Twilight used her wings to part the fire as it struck her; Flaring her metallic wings to their full width, the flames were torn in half to fall on either side of her; feeling a sudden jolt throughout her systems as she did so.

Her body stiffened and her HUD blinked in and out for several seconds, and as she desperately fought to restore her own internal workings, she understood. This fire, so that’s it. Her flames are infused with a magnetic discharge.

Had she been a regular pony, there was no doubt in her processor that she would have been completely shut down. Running maintenance of her core systems, Twilight’s horn glowed again and again, as she replaced wires, welded, and rebuilt herself; piece by piece, the pain unimaginably excruciating.

Just when she felt her system would crash from the overloading of her pain sensors, Twilight watched a familiar green screen appear in her HUD once more, and text scrawled across it, though not in the usual way:

Initiating Empathy.EXE…
Damage Detected…
Concern initiated…
Princess Twilight are you okay?

I’m fine Empathy. Good to see you survived the shock.

Detected: Several damaged components
Concern initiated…
You cannot lie to me, Princess. You know this.

Alright, you got me. Empathy I am in a lot of pain right now, can you help me by shutting down my pain receptors temporarily?

Negative…
I cannot interact with other systems, Princess…
I can only provide support…
That is my only function…

Don’t feel bad, Empathy, your assistance is and always has been just enough. Talk to me, these repairs are going to take a while. Chrysi is quite dangerous, isn’t she?

Affirmative: She is definitely your daughter.

Twilight winced as she took a deep breath and tore her now useless wing from her body, tossing it to the side and screaming internally at the shocking agony that filled her body. However, on her HUD scrolled new words, catching Twilight’s attention.

Princess, Focus on me, not the pain…
You can do this. I am here for you…

Giving a slight snort at those words, Twilight’s horn glowed brightly. As she fought through the pain. Aided by the Empathy program, the two conversed back and forth about everything and nothing, while Twilight continued slowly reconstructing her body under the blazing sun.

Meanwhile, Chrysi continued flailing and thrashing about on the outskirts of what had once been the Pie’s Rock Farm, now nothing but a valley of flowing lava; as it had been for the past four years.

Chapter 10: Soulless, not heartless

Twilight grimaced and stumbled as she fought to stay on her hooves. Beside her lay over two hundred components, wiring, capacitors, even her core systems, and her wings; all ripped from her body. The pain wracking her body was well above the threshold of any other. Were she organic, she would have died hours ago. Even Starlight would have succumbed to the critical damage of self-repairing that Twilight had been doing.

For Twilight, however, physical pain was nothing compared to her desire to help others through their emotional pain. And therein lay the secret to her magical abilities.

She felt the soul-shattering pain like any other, and her tolerance for it though higher was the same as her own partner’s. Still, she simply refused to give up. That was her power; her talent, and the reason she was known as the Princess of Empathy.

The ability to shrug off critical failures in her systems, as well as withstand damage that would have shut down any other lifeform for keeps, was all thanks to her resolve to help others, no matter the cost or agony she would be forced to endure. And right now, burdened with an electromagnetic shock that fried half of her core, primary, and subsystems; Twilight didn’t care. Later after all was said and done, she would be forced to pay the piper, she knew. And it didn’t matter.

Twilight’s only focus was on Chrysi being afraid. Her daughter needed her. That was all that mattered. Unfolding her newly constructed wings, Twilight took a step and another, brushing aside the emerald flames with little effort; her wings now coated with a magical protection none other could replicate. In moments, she stood directly below the rampaging dragon.

Raising her volume to maximum, Twilight roared at her daughter.

***

32.2 Kilometers away

Applejack stared at Rainbow in disbelief. The Earthpony wore a neckerchief of checkered pattern and a pair of goggles with a built-in diagnostic scanner. The saddlebag on her back was packed with many wrenches, hammers, and an arc welder.

“What happened to them, Rainbow?”

Before Rainbow Dash had a chance to answer, the ground of the entire camp within the ruins of what had been Canterlot began to quake; a shockwave reverberating through the air and a thunderous voice was heard.

“Chrysi Glimmer!”

In Applejack’s Repair Tent, Applejack and Rainbow both said simultaneously.

“Twilight?”

Blinking, the once farmpony, used her teeth to pull a hammer from her bag.

“You were over by Pinkie’s old farm. Right?”

Shaking, Rainbow nodded.

Yeah.”

“Twilight head there?”

“Yeah.”

“She’s there right now, isn’t she?”

“Yeah.”

There was a moment of silence as Rainbow Dash shivered. Applejack gave a grunt as she picked Sweetie Belle up in her hooves and placed her limp form on the repair table.

“Alright, Sugarcube, take a seat. I’ll get to repairing these fillies. This may take a while.”

Without another word, Applejack brought the metalsmith’s hammer down with tremendous force; her audio receptors still ringing.

***

The world itself seemed to take pause at the unbridled force of Twilight’s shout; the emerald flames stopped flickering as though in fear, and even the lava ceased flowing for half a second. Above Twilight, the black dragon froze in midair; no longer thrashing about and in complete shock from the sudden outburst.

Noticing she had her daughter’s undivided attention, Twilight lowered her volume back down to normal, with her usual gentle tone.

“Come here, Chrysi. Talk to me.”

As the dragon came in for a landing, Twilight was silent. On her face, was a caring smile, but inside she felt nothing; the price of Empathy. She understood everypony’s feelings, she always responded exactly as they needed to pull through, with the help of the Empathy Program, and yet, she felt none of her own emotions.

And right now, the Empathy Program was resting; napping, as it decided to do after every use. How exactly it did this, Twilight didn’t know; Twilight really didn’t know much about the Empathy Program. Where it came from, she had no idea, just stumbling on it one recharge cycle. What she did know is that it wouldn’t respond to her summons until it decided it needed to get involved. How it did this, she didn’t know.

And now, she was alone; Twilight’s mind completely silent, as she watched with an eagle’s fierceness for any and all indications of the fear seen earlier. A single shiver, a twitch. Nothing escaped her gaze.

“Mom, help! I don’t know what to do!”

The pitch, the tone; all of it was broken down by Twilight’s processor, causing her to be a bit startled. Chrysi wasn’t afraid, she was frantic. Clearly confused about something, she had gotten frustrated trying to understand it. But why was she frustrated? Twilight decided to find out.

“Talk to me, sweetie. What’s wrong?”

Chrysi blinked in confusion. Over the past few days, she had developed a strange connection to both Twilight and Starlight. Perhaps it was their mannerisms towards her, maybe it was the conditioning of the world she now belonged to, but she was their daughter. Their love towards her had been on full display from the moment her new form had been chosen. And while Twilight spoke in the same gentle tone as always, it felt cold, almost lifeless; lacking the warmth of the Princess who had taken her in and sworn her as her own.

“Mom are you okay? You sound…strange.”

Twilight noticed that Chrysi seemed concerned. Unsure of what she meant though, Twilight inquired further.

“Strange? How so?”

Chrysi tilted her draconic head as if trying to understand something. Her previous fears seemed all but forgotten and instead she seemed worried about something new.

“Empty. Lifeless. Your words are caring, but your tone feels cold, unfeeling.”

Twilight was floored. Ever since she could remember, of all the beings she had talked to, only Starlight had ever noticed that her emotional outpourings were nothing but reflections of desires felt by others. For the first time, Twilight had no words. How can you explain how much you care for others when you, yourself, feel…nothing? Her processor told her she cared, that she loved every creature and yet, she felt none of it. Errors were piling up as she tried to find a way to explain this oxymoronic situation; that it had been the cost of salvation for the life of this world. That it was the price she had willingly paid to protect those she loved.

Folding her massive, metal-plated wings Chrysi lowered her mechanical reptilian head to stare Twilight in the eyes.

“Mom? Talk to me, what’s wrong?”

Twilight smiled sweetly. She felt none of the joy she showed, but she still knew how to make the expression of what others expected. Hollow and empty, she forced herself to show a smile she didn’t feel. She decided to tell Chrysalis, no, to tell Chrysi; her daughter, the curse she bore. She spoke, this time disabling the warm tone she normally shared with others, letting her real voice be heard; cold, metallic, and soulless.

“Chrysi, this is the real me. What you see on my face, the light in my eyes, and the warmth you hear in my vocal tones, are just surface level.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I can’t feel. I know what the emotion looks like, and I remember what emotion would be felt and so I show it to others, based on the situation, based on what they need to see. For example, I know that I should love you, like my daughter; I would protect you until my functions ceased. I, myself, however, feel nothing. No emotions, no sensations.”

Scratching a razor-sharp talon in the cracked, scorched earth, Chrysi felt heartbroken. Sure it had only been a few days, but she had felt the love, consideration, and she felt like she belonged. And yet, she now learned it was all fake? She wanted to cry.

“So you’ve been faking it, you never loved me?”

“No, it wasn’t fake. I really do care for you. I show you what I know I would feel. I go through the motions of what love from me would be like based on my own experiences. I just can’t actually feel what I show you.”

Chrysi was at a loss for words, what could she say? It sounded horrible, an unimaginable scenario where the world could feel your love, and yet you could not feel the love you gave. What could bring about such a fate? Chrysi scratched aimlessly in the blackened earth in silence for a minute, before once more talking to Twilight and asking the big question.

“How did this happen to you?”

Twilight was silent for a moment, as though considering the question. I’m already in too deep, I’ll just tell her.

“To answer that, I need to explain the status of the world at that time. Starlight and I found ourselves in a race against the clock. The Celestial Princesses had been slaughtered by the Chrysalis of our world; though now she was merged with the Smooze, which wore her like a suit. With Luna dead, the moon’s orbit destabilized. We never realized how precisely she had controlled the moon; down to a micron of a degree without deviation, every time.”

To emphasize this point, Twilight used her magic to materialize both a small moon and a model of the sun. Continuing, Twilight spoke dourly.

“Any variation in orbit would cause it to well, take a look.”

Nudging the moon, it immediately fell towards and smashed into the sun where it was completely consumed by the ball of fire. That’s when something unexpected happened; the impact actually caused the model of the sun to move closer to Twilight.

“With the Celestials powers of control negated, Starlight and I realized the world was about to get a thousand times warmer. We were looking at an extinction event. We knew what would happen, we knew all would die, but we had no idea how to fix it and little time to figure it out.”

Twilight’s eyes glowed with a bight, shining amethyst, almost as though she were excited; though Chrysi could hear the same deadpan tone in her words. This must be what she remembers feeling at the time.

“And so…as we often did, Starlight and I found ourselves in the library, surrounded by all manners of spell scrolls; searching for something, anything to stave off the end of our beloved world. For hours we scoured tomes, scrolls, and even ancient tablets for something we could use; there had to be some answer. And then we found it.”

Giving a hollowed laugh, Twilight continued her explanation.

“In the forbidden section of the library, in a corner of dusty and forgotten magicks, lay a simple leather-bound tome. The tome was made of sheets of carved stone, chiseled in ancient Ponish. It detailed a type of magic known as Alchemy; the ancient art of transmuting matter from one type into another, lead into gold, that sort of thing. Ah, but unlike other magicks, this could not simply be cast by the horn; you see, each use of Alchemical magic required a sacrifice on the caster’s part-”

Twilight's eyes shone with a strange light; almost as if, for just a moment, the rush of that moment was actually being felt by her. Chrysi shivered as a chill seemed to travel throughout her circuits, as she listened.

“And cast it, we did.”

Chapter 11: Burned into her RAM

Applejack carefully stared through the goggles at the wires and tubes that filled the dismantled metal chassis of Scootaloo; beside her were the legs, minuscule wings, and even the head of the completely deactivated young mechanized filly. Ruptured tubing and shorted wires lay in a pile on the ground. On her workbench, were freshly procured wired spools and some vulcanized tubing.

“Whatcha doing?”

Looking up, Applejack couldn’t help but let a smile grace her muzzle. Sweetie Belle stood with her hooves on the table, peering up at the strange sight asking about the repairs. Distorted and yet sweet as honey, her voice made It hard to be stern with her, her fascination with machine ponies and how they functioned, well know.

“I’m rebuilding Scootaloo.”

At one time, this would have sounded strange to the young filly. However, with the changes the world had undergone, rebuilding and repairing were quite commonplace. In fact, after many misadventures, the fillies were used to waking up from reactivation on Applejack’s repair bench. And all creatures of the camp knew; for repairs, it had to be Applejack.

“Well duh, but I mean, how?”

Chuckling at the filly’s adorable snark, Applejack turned back to her work and pointed at the goggles over her eyes.

“Right now, I’m tracing her electrical systems; that way I can rip out the now fried wiring, and replace it with some brand new insulated wiring.”

Eyes glowing, Sweetie Belle asked with pure excitement.

“Ooh! Can I help? She’ll need new coolant for her new tubes, right?”

Without waiting for an answer, Sweetie Belle eagerly conjured up two small vials; one of mineral oil, and the other of antifreeze. Happily, she began to slowly mix the two, talking out loud to Applejack; who had stopped to watch in fascination.

“Ethylene Glycol, a type of organic anti-freeze, and mineral oil, my own recipe of course, when mixed they form the coolant or heat transfer fluid that flows through our tubes. Rarity says it actually works better than the conjured coolant, watch!”

Applejack was amazed at her control, watching as Sweetie Belle meticulously measured and mixed. Occasionally, she conjured other mysterious vials filled with unknown matter and mixed it in. With a small poof of a well-timed blast of her magic, the solution was finished.

A glowing bright red, it slowly swished around in the small vial that Sweetie Belle moved it to. Proudly, Sweetie Belle levitated it before her and waved a metallic hoof at it.

“Tadah!”

Applejack noticed just how proud she appeared at her creation and got an idea. Gushing, she praised the young filly.

“That’s amazing, Sugarcube!”

Sweetie Belle giggled; excited at receiving praise.

“Thanks! Rarity taught me!”

Applejack then put her plan into action.

“And she did a great job. Though, I’ll need quite a bit more, than a tiny little vial, if I’m to completely change out her coolant.”

Sweetie Belle looked disheartened.

“It’s not enough?”

Smiling, Applejack shook her head.

“‘Fraid not. The body requires about five liters of the stuff, Sweetie Belle. Would you mind helping me out with that?”

Suddenly, Sweetie Belle’s eyes glowed brightly with excitement. It wasn’t often the adults, other than her sister, who asked for her help. Eagerly she shouted proudly, already conjuring her supplies in much larger quantities.

“I’m on it!”

Turning back to her work, Applejack wore a grin as she picked up a grinder; turning it on and watched it spin, before lowering it to the chassis of Rainbow’s little sister. As the sparks flew, she could hear Sweetie Belle happily humming as she performed her craft. That’ll keep her busy for a while, and she looks so happy doing it as well.

“I appreciate it, Sweetie Belle, it really helps me out. Thank you.”

Glad to know Sweetie Belle was entertained, Applejack carefully split Scootaloo’s chassis in half to expose the insides.

What Applejack didn’t tell her, was that she already had dozens of one hundred twenty liter drums of Sweetie Belle’s Coolant, courtesy of Rarity, in the backroom.

***

Her massive shadow dwarfing the form of the mechanical Alicorn beneath her, Chrysi sat; perched, with her wings folded as Twilight explained the forbidden magic that she and Starlight had used. And the grievous error both had committed.

“The tome had us mesmerized, we had never seen such magic. Spells, incantations that required components to cast? So archaic, so…primitive. And that tome told us all about how it began.”

Chrysi stared, completely mesmerized by the tale being told by her adoptive mother. She listened in silent captivation as the rocks around her melted away in the intense heat of the unforgiving sun.

“In Saddle Arabia, in years lost to time, ancient magic was created within the windswept desert. It had a singular purpose, to change one state of matter into another entirely. A simple principle was created to explain it: To gain, something of equal worth will be lost.”

Dragging her hoof in the ashen dust, Twilight drew images of water droplets as well as some horrific-looking creatures; ponies missing hooves, legs, or even eyes.

“Looking for a way to pull water from thin air, the inhabitants would single out an offering, to be transmuted by a being said to perform the deed; considered a prestigious honor for the wretched. These still living sacrifices were placed within a pentagram, surrounded by a circle; drawn in the blood of the unfortunate.

The casters would stand by what they called a summoning circle and then they would chant as follows:

Al-maa minn al-dumm al-dem lelma khed ma ho matloube khed ma ehm.”

Seeing the confused look on Chrysi’s face, Twilight smiled.

“If we were to translate it into the current dialect of Ponish, Chrysi, it would be roughly something like:

Water from blood, blood for water, Give what is needed, take what matters.

And that is exactly what would happen. In return for the creation of water, whatever mattered most to the sacrificed would be taken as payment. It could be their eyes, or maybe their forelegs, but it wasn’t just the physical that was taken.”

Still drawing in the dust, Twilight drew both her and Starlight’s cutie marks as she continued.

“Abilities, memories, and even talents were taken as well. Anything that mattered to the victim, became the catalyst; this was a result of a much lesser-known branch of Alchemy, Mental Alchemy, essentially boiling down to the world being purely composed of one’s perceptions and so the very thoughts in your mind can be transmuted as well.

We poured over the tome for hours, reading about how eventually it lead to the discovery of transmutation of metals, stones, and objects; though it still required a sacrifice. As we read, however, time was lost, and the world burned.”

Scratching out the cutie marks, Twilight continued her tale.

“We were out of time, we had no other options; we both pricked our hooves and drew the circle. Together we stepped into it and we desperately cast our spell; not to transmute something simple like water or lead, but to transmute the flesh of all life, to allow beings to survive the ten thousand degrees ball of fire consuming our world. And we succeeded.

The remaining life was changed into the current mechanical forms you see us as today. And in return, I lost the ability to feel the emotions I portrayed to others, while Starlight could no longer feel the emotions others gave towards her. The Princesses of Friendship and Empathy could no longer experience either.”

Drawing a clock, a heart, and a hayburger in the dust, Twilight crossed them out one by one.

“Time, mortality, and food. None of it mattered anymore. We no longer had day or night, we could no longer age or die naturally, and we no longer required food. By we, I mean the fifty of us left.”

Looking up, Twilight stared in Chrysi’s ocular receptors.

“We took too long. Those fifty you see in the camp? That’s all that’s left. The rest, up in flames or slain by the Oozlings. And for those that perished, a fate worse than death awaits thanks to the self-proclaimed Overlord and her necromancy, as slaves to her will; reanimated drones of her wretched hive. We couldn’t save them, we couldn’t preserve their memory. And it utterly destroyed Starlight and me.”

Pausing, Twilight let the ghost of a smile grace her muzzle.

“But the story didn’t end there, did it? No, even though the world we had known was utterly destroyed, amidst the flames, rose a new way of life; a new Equestria was born. We learned to use our new forms. And though we couldn’t age, new destinies emerged; New talents, new abilities, new studies. Things that never were were suddenly discovered.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders, as they called themselves-”

Pausing for a moment, Twilight chuckled.

“And still do, were forced to accept that cutie marks could no longer be earned, and so they turned towards studying our new forms. Sweetie Belle found a fascination with the composition of our bodies and even paving the way for liquid plating after a couple of years. Applebloom joined her sister, Applejack as a repair mare; both surprisingly adept at any and all breakdowns, from the circuits to the metal of our new flesh, they fixed it with ease. Scootaloo, though, really surprised us. Do you know that database you use? Yeah, she programmed it. From writing code to learning how to use our heads-up displays; Scootaloo taught us with veritable ease; like it was her calling.

Though there were only fifty of us, we grew close, and together over four years, we became one family. Well with the additions of two; you, and another.”

Chrysi blinked her glowing jade green LEDs.

“There was another? Who?”

Twilight shook her head.

“I’m afraid that’s not my answer to give, Chrysi. When the time is right and she feels comfortable sharing, I have no doubt she’ll let you know. Though yes, you aren’t the only traveler here. Actually, she’s the reason we created the liquid plating solution, to begin with. We didn’t want to perform anymore, drastic sacrifices, as it were.”

Twilight gave an empty sigh.

“The world has changed so much, we have changed so much. Thanks to Scootaloo’s teaching, memories can now be stored away, never to be forgotten and accessed whenever. Sometimes, when I’m about to jack-in for a recharge cycle, I playback what life was like before the armageddon that befell this world, you know?”

Without so much as a word, Chrysi wrapped Twilight in her massive wings, giving her the biggest hug of comfort she could; even though she now knew it couldn’t be felt. Twilight allowed a grateful smile to fill her face and asked.

“You told me about how your world fell, but tell me, Chrysi. Do you remember what it was like before all the madness?”

Chrysi gave a soft chuckle before responding.

“Some things don’t need a folder to be remembered. I’ll never forget what it was like, mom.”

Twilight leaned her head against the massive thigh of the obsidian dragon.

“Could you tell me about it?”

Chrysi nodded and began her tale.

“The first time I ever cared about that world was during a battle; the last battle for Equestria. I was considered a villain back then, and I had teamed up with Cozy Glow, a Pegasus turned Chaotic Alicorn, and a Magic-devouring Centaur called Tirek to wreak havoc on the world. Twilight Sparkle and her friends stood on a hill; though we had sewn discord and chaos amidst the ponies, somehow they managed to unite against us. And they were preparing one final charge against our unstoppable might.”

As Chrysi told her story, Twilight’s LEDs flickered before going dark; the Alicorn having closed her eyes to listen to the words and picture the world her adopted daughter had come from.

“I turned to look at Cozy Glow and Tirek and I said-”

Chapter 12: Restore Point

Cozy Glow narrowed her eyes in rage, glaring down at Chrysalis. Through gritted teeth she uttered.

“What. Did. You. Just. Say?”

“I’m done.”

The words weren’t spoken with the usual rash and aggressive tone Chrysalis used towards Cozy. They were spoken with a tired and pained expression painted across the Changeling Queen’s face. Even in her powered-up form she looked saddened, hurt. Whispering wearily to the other two, Chrysalis just repeated her words.

“I’m done. I don’t want to fight anymore, I can’t do this anymore.”

Cozy Glow’s eyes softened having never seen Chrysalis this vulnerable. She didn’t like this side of her at all. Sure, they were villains, but their time together kind of made Cozy enjoy their spiteful back and forths. Seeing her normally vile friend in such a torn state, hurt her. Tirek, however, angrily shouted at Chrysalis.

“Have you lost your mind, Bug Queen? What do you mean you’re done? We’re about to crush those goody-four-hooves! We will finally have our reven-”

“No, we won’t!”

Chrysalis slammed her hoof down, interrupting Tirek, but her words conveyed none of the rage her movements did. Chrysalis sounded worn-out, and Tirek took notice.

“Don’t you get it, you oaf? Revenge? We never win. Even now, we are preparing for a final stand. And then what? If we win, we turn on each other, it’s only natural for us. And if we lose? We are left to lick our wounds and plot once more… Tell me, aren’t you as tired as I am; looking for a revenge that is always out of reach?”

Tirek’s face fell, he could see her point. And Cozy Glow just felt like hugging Chrysalis, if only to feel Chrysalis angrily shove her off; she hated seeing her so destroyed.

“Look at them!”

Turning the other two looked towards the hill, where Twilight was giving her loathsome friendship speeches to dragons, ponies, yaks, griffons. Every creature that was able to defend Equestria stood there, inspired by her words of unity, of Harmony. Chrysalis spat on the ground in self-loathing.

“We did everything we could, to turn them against each other, and yet somehow they stand there united against us. Even managed to destroy the Wendigos. Tell me, what have we done? Taken out, Celestia and Luna? So what? That hasn’t stopped them at all. When this is over, we’ll be sent away again; I’ve lost my crown, my hive, and my pride trying to get back at them; I’m so tired of losing. I’m tired of being alone. You two do what you want, I, just don’t feel like fighting anymore.”

Tirek watched as Chrysalis took a few steps away from them, closed her wings, and sat on her haunches. This movement, however, did not escape the notice of Twilight Sparkle, who paused for a moment to watch the scene.

Turning to Cozy Glow, Tirek asked the Alicorn.

“What do you want to do?”

Sighing, Cozy Glow’s horn, which had been channeling magic to prepare for a final blast, stopped glowing. She folded her wings and sat down as well, lamenting to the Centaur.

“Somepony finally said it. She’s right. This game has really gotten out of hoof. I never wanted to hurt ponies, Tirek, I’m just a filly for Grogar’s sake! I just wanted to be a princess, to be in charge, and now look at me. An overblown fantasy has made me Equestria’s Most Wanted. Maybe we should call it quits.

Over on the hill, they all get along, wouldn’t that be nice? If we could also have that kind of fun in the sun, instead of slinking in the shadows? Chrysalis is right, it’s brought us nothing but pain. I don’t want to go to Tartarus again. I say we stop fighting. I vote we surrender. This game just isn’t fun anymore and I want to go home.”

Tirek clenched his fists at this reply. He angrily shouted at them.

“I will not surrender to those ponies! They stole thousands of years from me as I rot in the depths of that infernal prison. I will have my-”

“So what?”

Cozy Glow’s words completely halted Tirek’s rant. She sounded nothing like the crazed pegasus she had been. Instead, a single tear rolled down her face. Tirek’s heart broke looking at the sight; that wasn’t her normal crocodile tears. Those were real. And for some reason, it twisted his insides, tearing him up inside. She spoke again.

“So what? We both know due to your ritual, you can’t die of old age. And if it’s your youth you wish to reclaim, why not just ask? Surely Discord could do such a thing without any effort. Even Celestia and Luna could, probably. For all we know, Twilight would eagerly make it happen, in her never-ending quest to be friends with every creature. I mean, you never asked them, did you?”

Tirek froze. He didn’t know what to say, they made great points, but all those years of torture; how could he just-

“Come on, Mr. Muscles. Let’s play a new game.”

Those words; spoken sincerely by the filly-turned Alicorn, decided the matter for him. He gave an annoyed sigh, before looking over at Chrysalis.

“Fine, you win, Bug Queen. But how do we even announce our unwillingness to fight? Our surrender? Anything we say at this point would be met with skepticism at best, and declarations of deception at worst. They won’t believe us.”

Silence fell on the three, as two ponies, an Alicorn and a Unicorn, now sat side by side on the hill. Ignoring the cries of “we got this”, they watched the three villains, curious to see what would happen next.

Chrysalis wasn’t sure what to do; Tirek was absolutely right, there was no way a cry of surrender would be taken realistically after everything that had happened. They had literally blown up Canterlot Castle and declared war. So what could they do? Time was running out and an attack was imminent. Her mind drew a blank.

That’s when Cozy Glow took Grogar’s Bell off of the cord around her neck, holding it up and saying softly.

“So, what if we say nothing at all, and instead, let this do the talking for us?”

Chrysalis and Tirek shared a look. Tirek spoke to Cozy.

“Are you serious? We would be left completely defenseless if they decided to retaliate.”

Nodding, Cozy Glow agreed.

“Exactly. We would be completely helpless. Can you think of a better way to prove our desire to end this?”

Chrysalis didn’t like the idea. At all. Her instincts screamed at her that giving up her magic, her Changeling powers, was likely to end up with her dead. Still, this was it. This was the answer, and this was the only way to prevent the soon-to-come onslaught. Stiffened in fear, she couldn’t speak and instead just forced herself to nod in reluctant consent. Tirek closed his eyes and spoke just two words.

“Do it.”

With a deep breath, Cozy Glow let her horn glow with her stolen magic, causing the legendary bell to rise into the air. The commotion on the hill grew as more and more noticed the display and whispers abound. What was going on? Were they attacking first?

Starlight and Twilight sat silently, watching the display as they had been, with great interest. Neither had a clue as to what was happening, but both would later reveal that they had grown curiously excited as the display unfolded before them; leaving them both mesmerized.

The bell had been pointed towards the hill, but as all present watched, it slowly turned to point the hollowed end at the three villains. The world fell silent as the knell of the bell rang out across the pasture.

With the loud clanging sound still echoing, the three were engulfed in a dark magical vortex. Chrysalis felt herself revert to her normal state and her body felt weaker, more hollowed than usual; collapsing onto the ground as her hooves gave out beneath her.

Tirek seeing this reached out his hands to help her back up, but though he tried with all his might, his muscles were gone; the magic that was infused within, sucked into the depths of the accursed bell. He couldn’t budge her in his withered, decrepit form.

Cozy Glow’s horn sank into her skull before vanishing and her body shrank back to her true identity; that of a filly Pegasus, her stolen magic now locked within the bell. Powerless and meek once more, she could barely fly. Yet, the only thing she seemed focused on was helping Tirek with lifting Chrysalis back onto her hooves.

As the three worked together, Chrysalis slowly rose to her hooves, just as Twilight and Starlight, having seen enough to make up their minds, approached them. Sharing a glance, the two stood before Tirek, Cozy Glow, and Chrysalis; the three now completely at their mercy. Starlight, standing before Chrysalis, held out her hoof in complete silence.

Chrysalis’s eyes went wide with surprise; this was the exact motion Starlight had made before. The same motion Chrysalis had scoffed at. Starlight stared silently into her eyes as if waiting for an answer. Twilight spoke softly to the three, her wings flared to emphasize her point.

“We don’t want to fight, and it looks like you don’t either. This is your chance, your moment to make your choice, to decide your fate. If you let this go, this opportunity won’t arise again. Let us help you, let us be at peace. Take our hooves and let’s bury our pasts and move forward; as friends.”

With her mind spoken, Twilight folded her wings and like Starlight, held out her hoof. The three villains looked at each other, before nodding their heads in a unanimous decision. All three lifted their hooves, and hands, and placed them on the two pony’s outstretched hooves.

Chrysalis, though still weakened from the magical drain, whispered hoarsely; speaking for the group.

“We would like that…friends.”

***

The LEDs of Twilight flickered until the bright Amethyst once more shined brightly. She played a low whistle track, in a display of her amazement.

“That’s quite the tale, Chrysi. You were a villain in your world?”

Her words weren’t ones of accusation, just ones of surprise. Chrysi chuckled at the memory.

“Originally, yes. Though that was decades ago. What about this world’s Chrysalis? Wasn’t she a villain too?”

Twilight couldn’t help it. She began to giggle at the thought. The idea of Chrysalis being a villain before the Smooze, was utterly hilarious to her.

“Actually, no. Not really. You see, many years ago, we met Chrysalis when she impersonated my brother and had been dating my foalsitter for about six years. My brother meanwhile, was unaware of this, having shipped out to guard training with the dream of being Captain of the Canterlot Guard, one day.

That’s when I got an invite to attend my, ahem *brother’s* wedding-”

***

“Flurry! Flurry!”

Stepping outside a rather large tent, a Pegasus adolescent with the appearance of being just a year or two from marehood, looked to see who was calling her name.

Her metallic body was a shimmering pink, the spitting image of her Alicorn mother. Her ocular receptors had LEDs that glowed with an envious jade green, her natural eye color; a gift from her other mother. Her muzzle had a singular metal fang showing, and on her flank was the image of a faded crystal heart. Her holographic mane and tail were translucent teal and seemed to have a few holes here and there, scattered throughout.

“Flurry Heart!”

Standing under a massive sign forged of an unknown metal and emblazoned with the words, “Changing Love”, Flurry Heart watched a rapidly approaching creature galloping towards her. The Changing Love was a place for romance to abound in the form of dating simulators; various machines couples could jack into, allowing them to visit various romantic locales, that once existed, for their dates.

Residents called it “Charging Love”, the rust on the aged sign obscuring some of the letterings. Still, Flurry never corrected them. Having opened the theater in memory of her late Alicorn mother, Flurry Heart hated being reminded she was Half-Changeling; especially after what her other mother did.

Still, though she hated it, she could not deny her heritage. Determined to put the past behind her, she had named it “Changing Love”; a combination of each of her mother’s traits. And there was one creature who knew this full well, and that creature was currently galloping towards her.

“Flurry!”

Smiling, Flurry Heart giggled as she was knocked over by Autumn Blaze as the Kirin tackled her; both grinning at each other. Autumn hugged her fiercely and said.

“Honey, we’re home!”

Flurry chuckled and gently nuzzled the Kirin; her partner of three years now, and her best friend since she was a filly and got lost in the woods. Looking at Autumn’s back, Flurry noticed the shaking form of their pet snake hissing in protest at the sudden movement. Gesturing to it, Flurry smiled as the snake swiftly crawled over to and up her foreleg.

“And did you both have a good day, sweetie?”

As hyperactive as ever, Autumn excitedly told her about running into Fluttershy and Kindness, about how she found a neat little lava stone on her walk, and also how she swore Feyfyre was happily hissing along to her singing earlier.

Listening to her tales always made Flurry Heart feel light-hearted; like the weight of her past, those horrible memories had vanished into the Aether. Chuckling, she gingerly ran her metal hoof along the snake’s back, listening to it hiss contentedly as Autumn told her all about her day.

It still amazed her, how she had started the little theater, with Autumn suggesting the two of them run it together; back when they first got serious with their relationship in the aftermath of the “metalling” as it came to be known.

She often wondered what her two mothers would think of her partner if they were still around. Though she could be a bit eccentric at times, with Autumn by her side, Flurry Heart felt, perhaps, eternal life in this world wasn’t so bad after all.

Getting up off the scorched ground, Flurry Heart started back into the tent calling out to her wife.

“Come on, Autumn, we've got customers waiting on us.”

Chapter 14: Encryption Key

Twilight’s eyes flickered as her mouth opened to answer, before growing dark and her muzzle snapped closed. Her limp body fell to the scorched earth, her wings splayed out in an unseemly fashion. As Chrysi stared confusedly at her, a voice next to her spoke out with an exasperated sigh.

“Because my wife is an idiot, sweetie.”

Turning in surprise, Chrysi found Starlight, casually hovering there, right next to her head; having been watching for the past few hours.

“Mom? Why would you say that?”

Starlight merely chuckled. Gesturing a wing at the still Alicorn.

“Because it’s true.”

The words weren’t spoken with ill intent, if anything it sounded almost loving.

“We need to help her!”

Starlight shook her head and spoke in a reassuring tone as she descended and gently nudged Twilight’s body.

“There is no need to worry. She does this a lot actually. Forgets her own well-being to help others, though she’s started rubbing off on me with that philosophy…Hm? What’s this?”

Starlight watched as the wing Twilight had repaired turned to dust at her touch. Likewise, her left foreleg, half of her chassis, and part of her neck did as well. Starlight stared at the sight for a moment, before turning to Chrysi.

“Do me a favor, breathe on me with your fire.”

“But mom…”

Flaring her wings, Starlight let loose a roar at the dumbstruck dragon.

“I gave you a command, Chrysi! I am your mother and you will do as I say! Now hit me with everything you’ve got!”

Chastised, and completely cowled by the ferocity of Starlight, Chrysi obliged; summoning up every bit of magic she could, Chrysi opened her mouth and unleashed it all.

Starlight smiled as the blast of Emerald Flames shot towards her. Holding out her wing, as Twilight had, Starlight took the blast head-on, though while it was striking the one wing, she immediately plunged her other one down to dig her wingtips into the blackened ground.

The electrical current crackled across her body. Sparking and visibly traveling down her wing, the flow of current ripped its way down her wing in a straight line, crossed over to the other wing, and down into the soil.

Her smile carried hints of an almost predatory nature, as Starlight let out a guttural screech. She hadn’t felt this kind of rush in a long time; one wrong move, and she would be fried. Her circuits crackled and popped; sparks flying, and her HUD was flashing countless alarms as the soil beneath her hooves erupted with an unfathomable explosion from the overwhelming current.

As the sound continued ringing in her audio receptors, and the flash of light faded from all sensors, Starlight stood there, smiling in a twenty-meter-deep crater. Her body was sparking and arcs of current could be seen jumping across her metallic form. The fire had left horrific scorch marks that would have to be buffed out, but as she lowered her wings and began laughing, it was clear; she was completely uninjured, though not unscathed.

“Mmm, that is brisk!”

Her body glowed and sparked, wings flared to their full length as the electrical charge visibly arced across the plating. After a few minutes, as the sparking dwindled before stopping, Starlight finally folded her wings. Shaking her head in visible amusement, Starlight chuckled with visible joy.

“Ooh boy, That certainly was…fun.”

Visibly worried, Chrysi asked her.

“Are you okay?”

Tilting her head in confusion, as she lifted Twilight’s remains on her back, Starlight replied nonchalantly.

“Of course I am. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“I mean, I just attacked you-”

Starlight chuckled.

“-At my command.”

“-And then there’s what happened to mom.”

Starlight paused for a moment, staying silent; deep in thought. Finally, having situated Twilight’s destroyed body onto her back in a good position, she turned to look Chrysi in her ocular receptors. Narrowing her eyes, Starlight said softly.

“You really don’t understand, do you? Let me show you something, Chrysi.”

Starlight channeled magic into her horn. She chuckled and said.

“Now, keep in mind, it has been years since I went all out, so I’m not nearly as able as I once was.”

Turning away, before Chrysi could say a word, Starlight pointed her horn at the pasture and-

With an unholy blast of magic, the entire pasture as far as Chrysi could see was bathed in a light blue glow shortly before erupting in a tremendous explosion. As the glow faded, Chrysi’s jaw dropped in disbelief. The entire pasture, lava flows, and all had been turned into a crater of at least twenty meters in depth.

Turning to look at the astounded dragon, Starlight said simply.

“Time to head home, next recharge cycle, you and I will return to this spot. And when we do, you’ll get the answer to your question, sweetie. Come on, Chrysi.”

The two left the crater, still smoking, behind them as they headed back to the camp in silence. Chrysi, completely dumbstruck, watched as Starlight calmly gave Applejack the supposed corpse; the latter who seemed unbothered. It didn’t make sense to her. How could they be so unfeeling? And then the next day, after her recharge was complete, Starlight showed her why.

***

“Wait a minute, where are we?”

In front of Chrysi, in her dragon form, was a massive lava flow, and a pasture of scorched, blackened rock; next to one jagged boulder, lay a pile of rusted metal plates, frayed wiring, and gears. Chrsyi even saw the lavender-hued wing that had been Princess Twilight’s.

Starlight gestured around her.

“Exactly where we stood, before recharging yesterday Chrysi.”

Chrysi froze. That’s impossible! There were no signs of the immense crater Starlight had caused, and yet the very same lava flow, the same landmarks; everything was exactly where it had been before. Untouched, as though it never happened.

“This, Chrysi, is the world in which we live-”

Starlight smiled and her voice grew low and silky.

“or perhaps, just exist as it wills.”

Reaching down, she dug her metal wingtips into the scorched dirt and lifted it up; it shone and gleamed within the bright light. Letting it fall to her wayside, Starlight chuckled.

“As indestructible as you or I, Chrysi; this world is completely self-replicating. The damage we inflict? Repairs itself over the course of a few hours. That pit I left, has filled itself in, rebuilding exactly what was here, before I erased it.”

“But wait, how is that even-”

Starlight nodded at the response.

“And this, Chrysi, is why we adopted you.”

“H-huh?”

“You are a foal. Oh sure, physically, you are over 600 years old; older than myself, Twilight and the entire camp put together. And though I have no doubt in your world your magical wisdom is far greater than my own. Still, you are an infant. In this world you are nothing more than a babe mewling for its mother’s milk; you have no knowledge, nor wisdom, no understanding of how this world works. Just like a newborn foal.”

Chrysi lowered her head in shock, as the words rang in her audio receptors. I…She isn’t wrong. I don’t know anything about this world…

Starlight looked thoughtful for a moment.

“Though as to why our daughter specifically. I suppose that can be chalked up to my lovely wife’s idiocy. You see, we always wanted a child of our own, and my guess is she found the perfect chance in you.”

Something Starlight had said was now consuming her processes and resources in an attempt to solve it. Something still doesn’t make sense. Perhaps it was just Chrysi’s ignorance of this world, but where she was from, magic was finite; spells cannot last forever and would simply degrade in efficiency over time until finally dissolving entirely. This was how Nightmare Moon had broken the seal of Celestia in her reality.

The way she spoke, the world would self-replicate eternally, that the residents of the camp could never die. Is she arrogant or is there an actual reason for this remark? I have to know. Fine, she was young and inexperienced in this world, she could accept that. But that just meant to learn more about this reality she now belonged to, she would have to ask about it. And right now, just one question was on her mind.

“Mom?”

Starlight smiled gently, her LEDs growing dark as she closed them. She knew what was coming. It wasn’t the first time she had to answer the question that was coming, after all. She spoke with a soft crackle in her words.

“Yes, Chrysi?”

“The way you mentioned this world being self-repairing, that the creatures of camp; you and I, and others were indestructible…It sounded like you were saying the world itself and those that exist in it are immortal. How is that possible?”

“13,659,472,021.”

Chrysi blinked in confusion. She was sure that couldn’t be the only answer, that there was more. Starlight, however, just sighed and shook her head, before turning away, saying.

“Time to go back to camp. And Chrysi you’ve been in that form long enough, come on, show me my adorable daughter again.”

Chrysi gave a whimper at this command. Looking down, she slowly scratched her talon, in an embarrassed, almost ashamed, manner. Muttering, she said.

“I…um…can’t.”

Stopping, Starlight turned to look at her, in surprise.

“What do you mean you can’t?”

“I…um…I”

Narrowing the lit pattern of LEDs that comprised her eyes, Starlight demanded.

“Speak up, tell me why you can’t.”

Her voice a squeaky cry, Chrysi shouted at her.

“I can’t remember the sub-menu you helped me find when we were practicing!”

Starlight’s fierce demeanor immediately faded away, and a loving smile appeared on her muzzle, her eyes soft and caring once more. Laughing, she approached Chrysi, who looked on the verge of tears. Starlight’s voice was gentle and warm.

“Oh, sweetie. Is that why you were thrashing about earlier?”

Her voice was almost like that of a sobbing child, as Chrysi explained.

“I was scared of disappointing you!”

Starlight just smiled. She still has her own issues, I’m being far too harsh with her. Though, it is uncanny; between her destructive abilities like my own and the same forgetful nature as Twilight, no creature could be faulted for mistaking her for the spawn of our own genetics. And though I hate to admit it; I’m not against the idea at all.

“It’s alright Chrysi, no need for tears, mommy is here for you. Here, let’s go over it again. Now follow along, first, you need to…”

It’s strange and yet, I can’t help think of her as anything but my child. Every time she cries, my heart melts once more. Times really have changed. Twilight’s right, I really have become a softie. What in the-

“No, Chrysi, not like that. Here, let me see your HUD.”

Her horn aglow with a soothing light blue, Starlight displayed what Chrysi could see before her; pointing a hoof a part of the screen, to which Chrysi nodded and activated that area.

“There you go! Now, next, you need to…”

I just need to be patient, something that admittedly is hard for me. She is only learning after all…Just like when we taught Flurry Heart. Hold on, how did she even do that?

“Chrysi, exit that prompt and start at the beginning. What comes first?”

Oh my me! Has she really forgotten what I just told her already? She really is like Twilight!

Chrysi stop! Pay attention. First, you need to access…”

“Oh, like this?”

“Exactly! Now next, follow my hooves, you see this area? You need to…”

Easily distracted, very forgetful, and making me smile. So much like Twilight, it hurts, or maybe I’m just taken in by her desire to understand. Either way…Huh, I've never even seen that prompt before.

“Chrysi, you need to follow along with mommy, don’t bring up random prompts like that…”

***

Twilight’s LEDs flickered, until lighting up completely. She attempted to move before a shrill, homegrown voice stopped her cold.

“Stay still!”

Freezing in place, Twilight spoke.

“Applebloom?”

Now that her patient was behaving herself, Applebloom’s voice became much more respectful.

“Howdy, Princess Twilight.”

“How long have I been out?”

“About three weeks, Princess.”

Carefully and swiftly, the sister of Applejack worked the smithing hammer, delicately when needed, but slamming it down with a strength that rivaled even her own sister, when required. Feeling a pain radiating down her spine, Twilight grunted.

“Arugh!”

The hammering stopped. Sounding concerned, Applebloom spoke to the aching Princess.

“Sorry, Princess. You weren’t supposed to feel that.”

Flabbergasted and wracked with unseemly pain, Twilight cried out.

“How exactly wasn’t I supposed to feel that?”

Applebloom glanced over at the stack of empty containers of a numbing agent Sweetie Belle had given her. She had delicately and deliberately coated each and every sensor neuron in Twilight’s body with the substance. She sighed. You Alicorns really adapt too quickly, this stuff stops every other creature from feeling anything for many recharge cycles. Note to self, have Sweetie experiment with a new mixture.

“Well, I got some good news and bad news, Princess. The good news is because you can feel pain, that means I reassembled you correctly.”

Twilight blinked in confusion.

“What’s the bad news?”

Picking up the fusion torch in her hooves and striking the tip to create a bright blue flame; formed using Starlight’s own magic, Applebloom positioned the replacement wing. Looking pensive for a moment, she answered Twilight.

“The bad news is…I apologize for this ahead of time, your majesty.”

And before Twilight could process this, Applebloom touched the superheated tip to Twilight’s wing membrane.

Chapter 15: Ransomware

***Three weeks before Twilight was repaired***

“Welcome to the Party Tent!”

Chrysi stared in silent shock at the outlandishly excitable pink Earthpony standing before her. She had been warned ahead of time just how over the top Pinkie Pie, the owner of the Party Tent, could be. And yet, nothing could have prepared her for this.

When she had first walked up, there had been nothing at the entrance. Within a microsecond, however, the area came to life with a pink-hued Earthpony, excitedly gesturing to her while holding balloons that seemed to have been pulled from thin air. Startled, she watched the fabled Party Pony, reach into her holographic mane and pull forth a-

Cupcake? How in the- That’s not even possible in this world! There’s no wheat, no salt and there’s no water! Besides ponies here don’t even eat, let alone have physical manes. How did she-

“Where anything can happen.”

With an unnatural shine in her sky blue LEDs, Pinkie grinned and gave a flourished bow, the cupcake nowhere to be seen.

“And it always does. The name’s Pinkemena Diane Pie, the Element of Laughter; at your service.”

Leaning close, Pinkie whispered in an oddly seductive manner.

“Though, you, Chrysalis, can call me Pinkie.”

Something I should warn you about is Pinkie is very…open to any and all. She is also aware of your situation. Chrysi blinked as Pinkie’s muzzle was barely microns from her own; causing her to feel, awkward. Yeah, yeah I can see what Mom meant now.

Noticing the tremble in Chrysi’s body, Pinkie chuckled and slowly pulled back.

“Starlight’s waiting for you to take you to a dinner in the Crystal Empire’s sector. Though, perhaps afterward, you and I could mosey on down to the Charging Love. Your design intrigues me and I’d love to see more of you in your more… natural form.”

She is very…forward, isn’t she?

“Erm, I- I better go, mom is waiting and-”

Grinning at her, Pinkie said.

“Of course, of course, right this way.”

Chrysi watched in disbelief, as the pink mechanical pony, bounced and swayed; as though she were light as a feather. As though she were flesh and bones. At a loss, she followed Pinkie through the tent flap, and even more questions arose in her mind.

The tent was acres larger inside than it was outside, and everywhere she looked, Pinkie Pies were everywhere. She watched as one called out to another about guest #12’s reservation, while another two Pinkie Pies seemed to be strapping in a couple, saying cheekily not to do anything she wouldn’t do, adding that of course there wasn’t such thing.

“What, how is this even…Why are there so many…I mean-”

Stopping for just a moment, Pinkie whispered softly to her, as she turned to stare Chrysi in her ocular receivers.

“Being curious is a wonderful quality, it’s nice to wonder how and why isn’t it? Though let me tell you this; it isn’t magic, but then I’m sure Starlight will tell you, it’s not possible either. And for others, it isn’t. Perhaps the how and why should be left to your imagination, after all, imagination can be its own magic.”

Giving a slight giggle, she added silkily.

“And who doesn’t find a little mystery alluring? Anywho~ Follow me, silly filly!”

With that she began bouncing along playing a whistling track, or perhaps she was actually whistling; Chrysi no longer had a clue, as she followed along in stunned silence to a strange machine, where Starlight waited in silence.

A glass container next to her had just two gears floating independently of each other, and yet, they turned in opposite ways as though each was turning the other. Completely mystified, Chrysi poked at it and looked at Starlight.

“How is that even pos-”

Immediately, she found Starlight’s metallic hoof covering her vocal speaker. Shaking her head, Starlight just said.

“Trust me-”

Pinkie’s own eyes had flashed with an instance of malice, the moment Chrysi started speaking. Starlight’s LEDs lit up and darkened to show her giving Pinkie a sideways glance, before continuing.

“You don’t want to ask that question.”

Turning to face the amused gaze of Pinkie Pie, Starlight spoke sweetly.

“We’re ready to go, Pinkie.”

Nodding, Pinkie reached up with empty hooves and gently tapped both Starlight and Chrysi just behind their ears where they would jack cables in, to recharge; Chrysi’s eyes grew wide with surprise. As Pinkie touched her port with her clearly empty hoof, Chrysi heard a distinct clicking sound. The sound of a cable being inserted.

Still grinning, Pinkie said.

“Alright, good to go, girls. Close your eyes and count to five. Afterward, open your eyes.” Chrysi’s eyes went dark, still confused at this, but noticing Starlight had done the same a moment ago, she decided to trust Pinkie. The last thing she heard as she counted was Pinkie’s voice growing more and more distant.

1…

2…

“Oh, I wonder where you’ll go and what you’ll do. Have fun.”

3…

4…

“And Chrysi, think about what I said, after all, playtime isn’t just for fillies, you know.”

5…

Chrysi opened her eyes, fully expecting to see Pinkie, only to realize she was standing in a room made of a shimmering purple crystal. Wait a minute…where is my display? She blinked and held up a hoof, it wasn’t made of metal. Gazing at the purple fur on her foreleg, she stared in disbelief. Is this real? Wait…am I a pony? Startled, she wildly looked at her surroundings. Next to her stood Starlight, also made of flesh and blood and dressed in full royalty regalia. Smiling, she rustled her feathers, as Chrysi looked on in confusion.

“I always feel so happy being able to feel my body, again, each time I come here. Oh, also-”

Gesturing around her with a hoof covered with a crystal shoe, Starlight announced proudly.

“Welcome to the Crystal Castle of Canterlot, as it was on the happiest day of my life.”

“Crystal Castle of Canterlot?”

Still stunned, Chrysi gazed at the massive shelves of books around them, and the armchair by a roaring fireplace. Chrysi looked closely at the shelves and while she recognized the names of the authors, the titles were vastly different from the ones she remembered; Rainbow Dash and the Desert Bandit by Daring-Do, The Demon of the Sun by Princess Luna, among many others. Rows and rows were filled with books that judging by the titles, were mostly chronicling all the infamous and heroic deeds performed by Starlight and her friends; though one particular book caught her attention: At Twilight the Stars Fall, by Starlight Glimmer.

This book sat on an end table by the armchair, and next to it was an inkwell and a feather-tipped quill. Chrysi stared at it as Starlight explained, but most of it fell on deaf ears as she thought about that book. I’ve seen that book.

“This is…best day…”

But where?

“Any moment she’s…and…buffet.”

It was all so surreal to Chrysi. How had she found herself here? What exactly was here? And why was she a flesh and bone pony? Her mind spat out question after question but no answers were forthcoming. As she pondered the answers to these questions, she felt a hoof tap her on the shoulder, and turning, she found herself face to face with a sinister-looking Alicorn peering down at her.

The Alicorn was dressed in attire matching Starlight’s own, with a lavender furred hide. There’s no way. The amethyst eyes held a ruby-tinted glow and were narrowed in a cold glare. Around her neck, the mare wore an amulet of ruby red set in forged Cold Iron. The luxurious mane of indigo possessed a single stripe of bloody red hue, and on the flank of the imposing Alicorn was the unmistakable cutie mark of none other, than Twilight Sparkle. Though her voice contained flecks of condescending superiority; it was still somehow warm and comforting to Chrysi.

“Hello there. Why are you in my Starlight’s library, and who are you?”

Starlight chimed in before Chrysi could answer.

“Twilight, this is Chrysi.”

Turning, Twilight’s glare didn’t let up for a moment, and her voice grew cold as a snowstorm.

“Starry, you never told me we were having guests.”

“She’s new to Canterlot so I thought I’d show her around.”

Twilight rolled her eyes.

“Another new friend, is it?”

Undaunted by the icy demeanor, Starlight grinned viciously in return.

“That’s right, love. I was thinking of inviting her to the banquet with us, as a guest.”

Turning back to Chrysi, Twilight towered over the mare glaring down at her, as though sizing her up, in silence. After a moment of intense staring, Twilight shook her head.

“No.”

Starlight looked shocked at the response.

“No?”

“You heard me.”

Gesturing at Chrysi with her hoof, Twilight’s tone remained so cold, that Chrysi was sure it was enough to inflict frostbite.

“I will not stand for her joining us, not dressed like that!”

“But she isn’t wearing anything.”

Nodding, Twilight turned to head towards the doorway.

“Exactly! We are royalty and I will not suffer any guest of ours going in anything less of that befitting us.”

Calling over her shoulder, she barked at Chrysi.

“You, Chrysi was it? Move your flank and follow me.”

Heading out the doorway, Twilight left the room, and Chrysi looked stunned at Starlight.

“That’s Twilight?”

Starlight just chuckled.

“At this point, we’ve only been dating for about three months, Chrysi. Having just gotten her wings, she still barely understands the concept of helping others, let alone being gentle about it.”

A thundering shout echoed down the stairwell in the hallway, ringing in Chrysi’s ears, causing her to wince at the sharp, annoyed tone.

“Now! Get up here. I won’t ask so nicely next time!”

Starlight just grinned.

“You best get going, she can be very aggressive when she wants something.”

Swiftly, Chrysi galloped for the stairs, worried about upsetting Twilight. If this was her benevolent version in this world; she was determined to never see her dark side.

For the next fifteen minutes, Starlight sat in her armchair, waiting and listening to Twilight’s increasingly furious shouts from above; accompanied by the sound of a struggle.

“Hold still!”

*Rustling*

“I’m not kidding. Don’t move!”

*Frantic stamping of hooves*

“I’m doing this for you, now hold still!”

*Whimpering*

“That’s it! You move again, and I’ll blast you, damn it!”

***

Walking through the doors of the Crystal Empire’s Castle, Chrysi’s face was stricken; as though she had seen a ghost. She wore a dark ruby red dress, with platinum trim inlaid with smooth rubies cut en cabochon. From her, now, newly pierced ears hung platinum wired earrings shaped like fangs, each possessing polished ruby slab inlays. Matching bracelets rested on her four ankles, while ruby red crystal shoes adorn her forehooves. Beside her, Twilight continuously hissed veiled threats at her.

“Back straight, head up, shoulders spread. If you embarrass me, I’ll make sure your pieces will never be found. There, that’s better. You wear that quite nicely.”

Suddenly, a navy blue Alicorn approached them with a kind expression on her face. The mane and tail twinkled with the light of the stars of the night sky. Her flank held a black splotch that contained a cutie mark of a crescent moon, and her eyes were a gentle royal blue. She watched as Starlight knelt before her, and just as surprisingly, Twilight did the same. As one, both Princesses addressed the Alicorn before them as Chrysi watched.

“Princess Luna.”

Smiling gently at the two, Luna replied.

“Rise, girls. It’s good to see you both again.”

At that moment a white Alicorn walked up and bowed her head to Starlight, addressing her directly.

“Princess Starlight.”

The Alicorn wore no crown but possessed a mane and tail of silky pink that radiated the light of the sun. on her flank was the image of a sun shining brightly.

Twilight glared at her.

“And?”

Turning to look at Twilight, Celestia’s eyes hardened in anger.

“And what? I haven’t forgiven you for what you did to my sister.”

Grinning, Twilight’s eyes glinted dangerously.

“Want me to do the same to you?”

Instantly, Celestia’s form ignited into a raging inferno, as she snarled.

“What did you say, you whelp?”

Chrysi stared on in confusion as nopony seemed bothered by the display; Starlight and Luna watching them with a knowing grin. As Celestia stood there, her mane and tail aflame and her eyes now a piercing yellow, Twilight repeated her threat; completely unconcerned by the display.

“Hard of hearing, Sun Butt? I said, do you want me to do the same to you?”

Celestia glared at her.

“Hillside, now. I’ll teach you to mock me.”

With an exaggerated bow, Twilight just laughed.

“After you, Fire Flank.”

Watching the Daybreaker strode through the doorway with a huff, Twilight turned to Starlight, her eyes shining with excitement.

“Me and Flaming Thighs are gonna do some catching up. Be back soon, sweetie.”

Starlight called after her.

“Keep it away from the city, you two!”

Turning back to Chrysi as the sound of an explosion outside could be heard, Starlight chuckled and indicated the room with the sweep of her hoof.

“Welcome to the Celebration of Harmony. The coming together of the darkness and the light in us all.”

Chrysi was completely floored as to the sight that greeted her. Over at the tables, sat Rainbow Dash and Applejack locked; hoof in hoof, wrestling to prove their strength. Beside them sat Wendy Whistles; Rainbow’s mother, also hoof-wrestling none other than Pear Butter. And then beside them, sat Bow Hothoof and Bright Macintosh locked in a fierce stranglehold; actually wrestling. All six seemed to be having a blast; shouting insults and boasting across the table at each other. Chrysi distinctly heard Applejack say.

“I bet you twenty bits, Rainbow, that my family sweeps yours!”

Off to the side, a fashion show seemed to be going, hosted by Rarity, amidst raucous applause; though Chrysi suspected the sign beside the stage had something to do with it:

Rarity’s Fashion: Trust me, darlings, you’ll love it!

Underneath, it had the words ‘or else’ scrawled in what Chrysi could only assume was fresh, still dripping blood. Turning her attention from the mixed excited and terrified faces, Chrysi glanced over to where a buffet of food had been spread out. Nearby, Pinkie seemed to be serving cupcakes to some young fillies; while their moms chuckled nervously. One joking nervously.

“T-this isn’t anypony we know, right?”

Chrysi blinked at the sight but then focused once more on the food. She was starving. Turning to Starlight, Chrysi addressed the Princess, out of habit.

“Hey mom, can we eat? I’m really hungry.”

Just then the ground shook and the taunting voice of Twilight could be heard, shouting.

“Ha! Your aim is terrible! You probably couldn’t even hit the broadside of your own sun!”

Daybreaker’s rage was evident as she retorted.

“Hold still, brat! Mine next one will rend thee snide tongue from thine mouth!”

Starlight paused to look towards the stained glass window as it shattered, and sighed.

“Yeah, let’s eat. Those two will be at this for a while. And while we eat, we can watch Fluttershy’s creature exhibition.”

As the two walked towards the wafting aroma of delicacies procured from all reaches of Equestria, the ears of Princess Luna pricked up.

“Mom? Starlight never told me she had a daughter.”

***

Sitting down at the table with a tray heaped up with a simple summer salad, and a flask of dandelion burdock cordial, Starlight eagerly began munching happily. The sound of clattering silverware caused her to glance up; revealing a trembling Chrysi, looking pointedly at her.

Though she was still chewing, Starlight looked at her.

“Is something wrong?”

Chrysi’s eye twitched, as she shouted at Starlight.

“Is something wrong? This, all of this! None of this is right! How are we here, why are we here?”

Starlight calmly swallowed, and placed her silverware down, before looking coldly at Chrysi. Her tone was firm and possessed no room for debate.

“Chrysi Glimmer. I am your mother. You will address me properly and with respect, don’t you dare raise your voice to me. Am I clear, my daughter?”

Startled by the tone shift, and thoroughly chastised, Chrysi turned beet red, and her voice dropped to a mumbled apology.

“I’m sorry, mom.”

Her eyes softening at the display, Starlight nodded.

“That’s better. Now speak to me like the mare you are and not some whiny filly. What would you like to ask me?”

“Where are we and how exactly did we get here?”

Starlight lifted her hoof to her muzzle, tapping it pensively, as she spoke.

“The where, is an easy one to answer, though the how is a bit tricky. We are currently twenty-four years in the past, on the happiest day of my life. How we were transported here, I haven’t the foggiest; I would say a simulation is active, but to enter one of those, you need to be jacked in physically with a cable. The problem is, we weren’t. I once thought magic, but Pinkie insists an Earthpony using magic is a ridiculous notion.”

Chrysi looked a bit surprised.

“You really don’t know?”

Starlight sighed in resignation.

“No, I really don’t.”

Taking a swig of dandelion burdock cordial, Starlight looked annoyed for a moment before glancing at Chrysi.

“I don’t know how she does really any of the things she does. And I gave up trying to a long time ago. Once, I asked her to work with me to determine how she manages her strange abilities. She seemed eager to help in my research. I had her under a truth spell and had her layout exactly how she does things. After a year of research and observation, I revealed the results she herself gave me.”

Shaking her head, Starlight sighed and took another sip before slamming it down in frustration.

“Only for her, still under the same truth spell, to tell me that wasn’t at all how it worked. So, frustrated, I just accepted she did what she did. So the truthful answer is, I honestly have no idea how Pinkie sent us here.”

Chrysi seemed a bit perplexed at this but decided to focus on something else on her mind, something she was sure had an immediate answer to.

“Okay, so Pinkie is an enigma, fine. I can attempt to ask her later. What about the number you gave me yesterday?”

Starlight paused, and suddenly looked somber. Her voice dropped, to a soft, sorrowful tone.

“13,659,472,021?”

Nodding, Chrysi asked pointedly.

“Yes, mom why is that number so special?”

Starlight appeared uncomfortable as she spoke.

“Twilight and I were going to explain this to you when you had fully adjusted to this world. Seeing as though the entire camp is aware of this, I suppose now is as good as time as any.”

Taking a deep breath, Starlight explained.

“Chrysi the number 13,659,472,021 is important because it represents the number of sentient beings still alive on Equus when Twilight and I cast our Alchemical transformation of the world. Sure, a couple hundred thousand or so were slaughtered by Chrysalis under the effects of possession, but the majority of the living were killed by us.”

Chrysi blurted out in sheer disbelief.

“Wait, what?”

A haunted look appeared in Starlight’s eyes, as she responded.

“Alchemy it turns out had a reason to be locked away in the forbidden section; you see, Alchemy is a class of definitive magic; a situation of specifically requesting what you desire, however, whatever is requested will always have an exact price tag for exactly what is asked. And we, we made a terrible mistake in our words.

“We thought only what was in the circle would become payable. We were fully prepared to sacrifice our lives and entire being to save every creature. We were idiots. It doesn’t matter what is in the circle, it matters what is connected to what is in the circle. And at that time, Twilight and I were already being recognized the world over, as the leaders of Equus. We had diplomatic ties to every culture, to every nation. And the circle knew.”

Downing the rest of the cordial, Starlight looked miserable as she continued.

“Somehow it knew. And when we made our request, we got our wish. Now only fifty remain. But the situation is far worse.”

Looking bewildered for a moment, Chrysi’s eyes went wide.

“The immortality. That’s what you meant.”

Starlight chuckled morosely.

“My daughter is pretty clever, isn’t she? That’s right. Twilight and I only lost our respective talents transforming the remaining living into machines but for the price of our attempt to protect our world; for the first desire of, we need the world to be eternally preserved against the power of the sun, We can never die. We can never see our lost friends again. Even if we refuse to recharge or break down and refuse to be repaired, somehow we are back to full operation within a week, back once more in our homes.

And we cannot create new life. Any damage we do automatically repairs itself and any structure we try to build crumbles to dust on its own. We cannot rebuild our cities, we cannot have offspring; we cannot build anything that did not exist before the ritual. Even the Overlord is stuck within this state of eternity. Though she seems more bored than anything.”

“Wait I thought she was a horrible creature?”

"At one time, she was. I’ve disintegrated that witch about twenty times now, only for her to show back up within a day or two. She can’t build her forces and the necromantic ritual she used before the metalling, is eternally set. Sometimes for fun, those of us who enjoy fighting, hunt the risen. Twilight, however, disapproves of this. No, we don’t call Chrysalis Overlord because of how dangerous she is, we do it out of pity, or maybe to mock her.”

“But Twilight mentioned a rebellion.”

"Actually, the rebellion forces, are just some fight club we established to fight the Overlord. She enjoys it and we do too, and since it really doesn’t matter if somepony dies, we host it every thirty recharge cycles. The truth is we are being held captive by the very efforts we made.”

Chrysi looked shellshocked.

“Then nothing we do matters?”

At this Starlight gave a loving smile.

“I wouldn’t say that. Even in a world where we have no power, we still have the means to be happy.”

Chrysi looked at her like she lost her mind.

“How, mom? You can’t rebuild, change the world, can’t repopulate, and can’t perish. What else is there?”

Starlight looked pointedly at her and asked softly.

“Do you know why today is considered by me to be the best day of my life?”

“No.”

Grinning, Starlight said.

“Pay attention. It’s about to happen.”

At that moment, Twilight ran up to the table, with Celestia hot on her hooves. Both looked an absolute wreck; dripping crimson staining their fur, wing ripped open, Celestia’s face even had a gash below her eye. And both were grinning ear-to-ear.

“Starlight, Starlight! I won!”

Celestia looked ashamed and said, begrudgingly.

“Yes, she really bested me. Princess Starlight, um, can you help us clean up the town?”

Starlight gave a secret wink to Chrysi, before saying in mock anger.

“Alright, what did you two destroy this time?”

Looking pitiful, Twilight winced.

“Everything.”

“What do you mean by everything?”

Turning to see a very cross-looking Chrysalis, followed by Cadance, marching towards them. Celestia chimed in, answering before Twilight had a chance.

“You have to come to see for yourselves, it’s hard to explain.”

Rising from her seat in apparent rage, Starlight yelled at the hapless duo and stormed towards the castle entrance; while secretly gesturing to Chrysi to follow them.

“We just finished repairing your last mishap! What am I going to do with you-?”

Her words cut off in mid-sentence as she stood in the doorway looking out. Tears welled in her eyes as she smiled and kissed Twilight.

“My answer is yes.”

Chrysi peered out the doorway and that's when she saw it. There on the hillside written in roaring flames were the words:

“Starlight, will you marry me?”

That’s when it clicked. There was still one thing that mattered. At that moment, however, the unmistakable voice of Pinkemena entered her mind.

“Times up girls, I got to bring you back now. Open your eyes.”

Chrysi’s eyes lit up as she looked around, once more she was by the strange gears, once more her foreleg was metallic. Her HUD informed her six hours had passed since she had closed her eyes, and as she watched Pinkie help another couple, she noticed that she had nothing in her hooves the entire time.

Beside her, Starlight had powered on once more, as well, and Chrysi turned to look at her. Her words were metallic and static-filled as normal.

“So eternity in this world, huh?”

“That’s right.”

Turning back to stare at Pinkie, she thought about how the Party Pony made no sense to her and really was a mystery. Perhaps she was right, what she said earlier.

Smiling, Chrysi glanced at Starlight, who seemed to be forlornly examining her wings, trying to rustle them; to no avail.

“I can do that. Hey mom? I got something I want to do.”

Without another word she walked over to Pinkie and tapped her on the shoulder. As Starlight watched her with an amused expression, Pinkemena turned around and was met with a grinning Chrysi, inches from her muzzle.

This mystery is pretty alluring after all.

“I’ll think I'll take you up on that offer after all, what do you say we check out the Charging Love, together after this tent closes?”

Chapter 16: Dual-Channel RAM

***Three weeks before Twilight was repaired***

Chrysi felt strangely at ease, as she walked down the destroyed roadway, in the scorching evening air. Well, she assumed it was evening; her HUD stated it was nearly 10 PM, after all. Since the sun never set, who was she to question it. Besides, currently, something else had her notice; the bouncing, carefree, storytelling, song-singing pink Earthpony with a fluffy mane, walking beside her.

She’s impulsive, and never seems to stop bouncing around. She’s been talking non-stop since we began this walk an hour ago. In her world, these kinds of antics wouldn’t have interested her, in the least. And yet, here, in this smoldering hellscape, that hyperactive, off-the-rails attitude of Pinkie just seemed like a breath of fresh air. And Chrysi had to admit, Pinkie’s laughter was contagious, she found herself smiling, and even laughing at the horribly bad jokes and theatrical circus tricks that Pinkie performed. And I don’t mind at all.

“...So then she said, oatmeal! Are you crazy? And I replied of course I am! Anyway, that was the last time we ever talked before she disappeared, but at least her daughter got a nice cupcake out of it.”

Noticing a tonal shift, Chrysi turned to make a startling observation. The hologram of a poofy mane of cotton candy pink mane had shifted to a straightened one that held a slightly darker shade of pink. The smile on Pinkie’s face had faded and a slight scowl had shown up. Even the LEDs that made her eyes had turned from a baby blue to a darkened, almost stormy gunmetal in coloration.

Chrysi had seen this before, in the party tent. When it seemed Pinkie was irritated or annoyed by a question, she would assume this form, but it had reverted back once Pinkie had been made to laugh. Was there a connection? Moreover, why did it suddenly feel like an entirely new entity was talking to her?

Chrysi gave a light-hearted laugh at the dark joke.

“That is amazing.”

Looking at her with a curious expression, Pinkemena asked in a rather unnerving voice, though this time, filled with surprise. And delight.

“Really? You think so?”

Chrysi made an off-handedly dark joke of her own, as the two arrived at their destination.

“Absolutely. Some ponies just seem to lose their heads over oatmeal.”

Pinkemena blinked at this response, letting out a muffled snort. But slowly that snort became a giggle and finally, Pinkie burst into a fit of laughter.

“Snrrk! Hee hee, ha, hahaha, bwahahaa!”

Chrysi noticed her mane was once more the same holographic poofy cotton candy pink it had been, not only that but her eyes had taken on the same baby-blue LEDs they had been.

“You’re a lot of fun, you know that?”

Grinning, Chrysi snorted with mirth.

“Snrhkk! I have my moments. So, this is the place?”

“Yep, this is the one!”

Glancing up, at the massive rusted sign, Chrysi stared at the odd lettering; something was off about the way the word Charging was written, but she couldn’t put her hoof on exactly what. Shaking the thought from her mind, she turned to the excited Pinkie and, lifting the tent flap, gave a slight bow.

“After you!”

Pinkie grinned. In a singsong voice, as her mane straightened out, Pinkemena spoke in a singsong voice.

“Ooh~ What a gentlemare you are. Courteous and with a deliciously dark sense of humor. Oh, I like you.”

With that, Pinkie, with her fluffed up mane practically pranced through the entrance to the tent.

“I’ll go pick our location.”

Pinkie bounced up to the front desk while Chrysi meanwhile was fascinated by the machines arranged in a line. Calling out she replied.

“You go ahead, Pinkie, I’m gonna check this out.”

Unlike the Party Tent, these ones were actual machinery, and the whirling gears and glowing circuits fascinated Chrysi. Almost hypnotically so. Reaching up her metal hoof, Chrysi gingerly poked at the sparkles emitted by the machine, as a curious kitten would. This is great! It’s been a while since I’ve been free to enjoy the dating market, but new life, new game. I’m excited to see how much fun I’ll have tonigh-

“Brought another new mare, huh?”

The cold voice caught the attention of Chrysi, who glanced up to see what was going on. What she saw, immediately put her on edge. There stood a Pegasus adolescent, smirking condescendingly at Pinkie; at her date.Pinkie looked completely deflated, her smile gone, as she murmured dejectedly at the Pegasus.

“I would like to…”

“Another notch in your bedpost, right? Are you gonna ditch this one too?”

Chrysi heard the exchange as she quickly made her way to the front desk. Placing her hoof around Pinkie, protectively, and looking pointedly at the Pegasus, Chrysi said softly.

“I’m sorry, but is there a problem here? We’re looking for a machine for a good six hours if you don’t mind.”

Snorting in derision, the Pegasus stared at her.

“So you’re her new toy, are you?”

Chrysi’s LEDs dimmed to form a glare of red glowing lights.

“What did you just call me?”

“A toy, a plaything. You aren’t special you know, she does this with every mare.”

Glancing to the side at the now trembling Pinkemena, Chrysi said simply.

“And your point?”

“My point is she’s been with every pony in camp. Clearly, she has no concept of love and you are her-”

“I don’t care. We’d like a machine, please. Six hours would be ideal.”

“Did you hear me? She-”

“I said, I don’t care. I am well aware she’s been around. I also think that our business is between us and none of your feather-flipping concern, Pegasus-”

Her tone clearly giving a warning, Chrysi continued.

“We. Would. Like. A. Machine. For. Six. Hours. Got it?”

“I’ll have you know my name is Flurry Heart, and I am the daughter of Princess Cadance. And-”

“And you are spitting on your mother’s grave.”

Taken aback, Flurry Heart yelled at her in anger.

“And what could a Unicorn like you possibly know about my mother?”

Chrysi felt her emotions reach a crescendo at this and she roared back in rage.

“More than you could possibly fathom!”

Flurry Heart was frozen in place and stared at Chrysi, speechless, as Chrysi turned to Pinkie who was staring at her in awe.

“Let’s go. If this is how a place claiming to celebrate the values of love treats its patrons, I would rather us go have some fun in the flaming wastes outside of town. I’m sure it can’t be any worse than this abysmal place.”

Pinkie didn’t argue, instead, she silently followed Chrysi out of the tent as Chrysi muttered.

“What a letdown, she’s nothing like her mother, at least not the Princess Cadance I remember.”

***

Sitting at the reception desk, Flurry Heart’s processor was going haywire as she tried to understand what she had just seen. Those eyes…Her eyes are like mine. Is she…A Changeling? But, there are no more Changelings, after all, mom is dead, isn’t she? I thought I was the last of my kind. But those features, she’s…just like…No way.

It couldn’t be, and yet she had witnessed it; she had watched as Chrysi’s rage had caused her disguise to momentarily fail. Her plate metal color had changed from her colorful pale mixture of lilac and lavender to her natural black. The holographic mane and tail had mirrored her own; a teal with holes in almost the exact same spots. And then there was what happened with that mares eyes.

That same unconscious habit all Changelings shared. The eyes glow in extreme emotional distress. And those eyes were the exact same glowing green of her own. Changelings all possessed different eye colors, all slight variations of the Queen’s own. Only the next in line, however, ever possessed the Hive Queen’s exact eye color. The next in line, being Flurry Heart, herself.

Turning to look at the scorched and slightly torn poster of both her mothers; Princesses Chrysalis and Cadance, on the wall, Flurry felt horrible.

Chrysalis’s eyes had been gouged out, and Flurry focused solely on the eternally smiling face of Cadance; the Alicorn of Love. Cadence though her expression hadn’t changed somehow seemed saddened as Flurry stared at her. Almost as if the late princess was disappointed in her daughter’s actions.

I can’t believe I did that…She was right. I really did go too far. I shouldn’t have…I have to fix this. I’ll go apologize to them. Sorry mom, for disrespecting your legacy.

Grabbing an ignition key out of the drawer, she jumped up and ran from the tent, calling out.

“Hey! Wait up!”

***

“Who in Tartarus does she think she is?”

Trotting down the street, Pinkie watched as Chrysi muttered and fumed about Flurry Heart.

“That brat had no idea what she was even talking about. There is no way the Cadance I knew would raise such a self-entitled snot to dictate the rules of Love like that. What a joke-”

Turning to look at Pinkie, Chrysi’s eyes softened; the LED’s dimmed slightly and a warm sadness appeared in her eyes. Her voice was filled with remorse as she told her.

“Pinkie I am so sorry you had to see that, I guess I ruined our night together, didn’t I?”

For once, Pinkie wasn’t hyper, but she wasn’t deflated either. She seemed to consider the words and even tilted her head as though listening to another. Her eyes suddenly lit up with happiness and she exclaimed.

“No. I can’t say anypony has ever defended me, like that. We really appreciate it.”

Chrysi blinked.

“We?”

Pinkie nodded as she seemed to shift between her fluffy and straight maned varieties at will.

“The truth is, I have dated quite a bit, but it isn’t because I’m unfaithful. It’s because I’m not one pony and my partners get scared when they learn about that side of me.”

Chrysi looked at her curiously.

“Really?”

Pinkie blinked at her. Chrysi had no doubt, fear, or even concern in her tone, unlike the others she had told. Almost sounding hopeful, she continued her explanation.

“Yes. My joyful side, the Element of Harmony; the Element of Laughter is known as Pinkie Pie. But when I feel distressed or saddened, angry or feel alone-”

The hologram of her mane became straight once more, and her eyes narrowed; her tone shifting to a more sinister, almost malicious tone.

“I appear. The Element of Suffering. Pinkemena Diane Pie, at your service; an Element of Disharmony.”

Chrysi stared at her in silence, as though considering what had been said. Pinkemena waited, watching her closely; looking for any sign of discomfort. Yet, Chrysi betrayed no indication of how she was feeling, she just stood there in silence, staring at Pinkemena. After a minute of the uncomfortable silence, and just as Pinkemena felt like she couldn’t take it anymore, Chrysi opened her mouth to speak.

“Hey!”

The two turned to watch as a familiar Pegasus appeared to be galloping towards them, calling out as her heavy metal hooves loudly clanked as she ran on the broken cobblestone road. Chrysi was immediately on guard, having been put off by their first meeting.

“What do you want, Flurry Heart?”

Stopping suddenly, Flurry Heart stared at her.

“I wanted to-”

“Wanted to what? Assault my date again? Mock us just wanting to have a good time? Maybe you wanted to have a fight? Look Little Miss Obviously-Better-Than-Me, I don’t give a flying feather about what you think of us. I wanted to have a fun evening, and she and I are going to do so and I’ll be burned in Tartarus before I let you ruin-”

“I wanted to apologize!”

Stopping in mid-rant, Chrysi watched Flurry Heart place her metallic wings over her muzzle; an instinctual act of submission in Pegasi, that only happens when they want forgiveness. Sighing, Chrysi stared conflicted at the display; she wanted to yell, to scream at her for earlier, but this genuine act of remorse touched her. Maybe it’s best to let this go, I’ll let Pinkie decide. Chrysi turned her head away before saying simply.

“Say it to her. If she forgives you, I will too.”

Pinkemena stared at the quivering form of Flurry Heart, seemingly trying to hide behind her wings, and huffed.

“Just forget it ever happened. It’s over, it’s done with. If you want somepony to hold a grudge, go talk to Shy’s other half. I don’t have such patience.

If I was actually upset by anything you had said, it would be a while before the world could repair the mangled form of yours that I would have left behind. It isn’t worth fussing over, though I really was set on taking Chrysi somewhere special, so I am pretty upset about that. Maybe I will dismantle you after all.”

Chrysi watched in amazement as Pinkemena, now sporting a vicious smile merely stepped forward; and a truly wicked-looking blade seemed to materialize in her hoof.

“Don’t worry. It won’t hurt and you’ll be back in a few days, I’m sure. But I’ll sure feel much better about this moment, huh?”

Flurry Heart uncovered her muzzle, peaking out at the strange sight that greeted her. Chrysi had grabbed Pinkie’s hoof mid-swing, holding it tightly, and was looking into Pinkemena’s ocular receptors; slowly shaking her head. She spoke gently.

“Don’t do it. It will really spoil my mood and If you care even a little about my feelings, you won’t do this. It isn’t worth it. It’s never worth it.”

Pinkemena stared at her for a moment, before her holographic mane went poofy once more and Flurry’s eyes widened in surprise as the knife in her hooves, just suddenly vanished. Where it went, she couldn’t tell. It was there, and then as Pinkie giggled, it just wasn’t.

“Okay Chrysi, for you, I’ll let it go. No need for anypony to lose her head over such a small thing, right?”

Chrysi, having already bent down to help Flurry Heart up, broke out in her own fit of laughter.

“Heh, hee hee, hahaa ha! That’s a good one, Pinkie. Alright, Daughter of Cadance, let’s get your prim and judgemental flank back on your hooves. There you go.”

After a few minutes, both Pinkie and Chrysi helped Flurry Heart to her hooves, and as she dusted her frame off with her wings, creating a horrible squealing screech of metal on metal, Chrysi spoke to her.

“Listen to me. As you can see, we’ve forgiven you and this whole incident can be put behind us. Pinkie isn’t going to rip you apart, and I’m not willing to trade barbs with you. Tonight has nothing to do with being in Love. It’s about the potential to discover it.

Sometimes, love isn’t instant. I’ve had my fair share of partners, and they simply weren’t compatible with me. It wasn’t a case of unfaithfulness, nor was it their fault. Sometimes it just happens.

Pinkie and I are just seeing if we are compatible. If anything happens in the spur of the moment, so be it. If not, so be it. Regardless the night is still young, and she and I are going to enjoy it; however, we may choose to. Please take care.”

Chrysi and Pinkie both turned to go, only to stop as Flurry called out to them once more.

“Wait. About that, I know we got off on the wrong hoof, but I came to offer you this.”

Turning around the two looked at the small platinum device in Flurry Heart’s hooves.

Looking at it, puzzled, Pinkie asked what it was. Flurry Heart grinned.

“This is an ignition key. When you get jacked in, these are what I use to start the dating simulation. This one is special and is normally reserved for the Princesses. I know I was awful to you, but if you’re willing to give me another chance, I would love to show you, both of you, how magical a night at the Charging Love can really be.”

Looking at Pinkie, Chrysi asked her.

“What do you think? This is your party after all.”

Pinkie turned her gaze to look at the strange device and the large diamond gem embedded within its handle, a smile slowly spreading across her muzzle.

Chapter 17: Disharmonic Table of Elements

*** Two and a half weeks before Twilight was repaired***

Chrysalis stretched her wings, sitting in the bubbling water of the simulation’s hot tub. Even after a few dates she still couldn’t wrap her mind around how real it felt. She knew it wasn’t, and yet she could feel the soothing relief as the bath salts soaked into her sore, throbbing exoskeleton, and into the aching muscles that lay beneath.

Next to her full Changeling body, sat Pinkie Pie, gently snuggling against her; eyes shut, and also tired from the many hours of the night’s activities. Looking down at her, Chrysalis couldn’t help but smile. She would never have thought she would be spending long nights with Pinkie of all ponies. Then again, it wasn’t just the party pony, was it?

Glancing up, Chrysalis gazed across the hot tub to where another Pinkie sat; this one possessed a straight, dark pink mane, naturally angry eyes, and in her hooves was a rather vicious-looking blade which she was slowly striking against a sharpening stone. Noticing Chrysalis looking at her, Pinkemena gave a sinister smile.

Like her counterpart, she too was quite tired and had decided to cool down by sharpening her favorite blade.

“Yes?”

Lifting up her hoof, Chrysalis gestured to Pinkemena before beckoning to herself.

“Come here, I want some cuddles.”

“I’m not really the cuddling-type, Chrysi. That’s what Pinkie is for.”

Turning back to her knife, Pinkemena flinched as Chrysi’s sharp and demanding voice suddenly filled her ears.

“That wasn’t a request. Get over here. Now!”

Glancing up once more, Pinkemena saw Chrysalis smiling sweetly at her. Rolling her eyes and flinging the knife, she watched it embed itself in the stone siding of the tub; Chrysalis not so much as flinching at the display. Slowly making her way over to Chrysalis’s side, she grumbled.

“Fine. Miss Bossy.”

Contrary to her attitude, however, she gently nuzzled up against Chrysalis; a smile on her normally frown-filled face. Chrysalis grinned.

“You know for a psychotic killer, you are surprisingly gentle in your caress.”

Glancing up, Pinkemena’s face flushed an even brighter shade of pink. She murmured indignantly as she nuzzled Chrysalis.

“Just don’t tell anypony, I’m supposed to be one of the more unforgiving, and vicious Elements of Disharmony, after all.”

Wrapping her hoof around Pinkemena, Chrysalis gently nuzzled her back.

“You’ve mentioned them before. What are these Elements of Disharmony, anyway?”

“Suffering, Deceit, Selfishness, Narcissism, Cruelty, Domination.”

There had been no laughter, no anger, just a swift to the point answer. Chrysalis looked down at her in surprise. The answer had been rattled off in a very uncharacteristic way; almost as if it had been drilled into her.

“Could you tell me a bit more about the different ones?”

Looking confused, Pinkemena shared a glance with Pinkie who shrugged before going back to snuggling Chrysalis.

“Didn’t we exist in your world?”

Chrysalis thought for a moment.

“I don’t think so. I mean, I know we had the Elements of Harmony, but I’ve never heard of the Elements of Disharmony.”

An awkward silence followed as Pinkie lifted her head and watched; Chrysalis staring at Pinkemena expectedly. Deciding to interject, Pinkie told her counterpart.

“You still need to explain them to her, silly filly.”

Blinking Pinkemena gave a nervous chuckle, smiling with embarrassment at Chrysalis.

“Oh right, it’s just that I’m so used to creatures knowing about us.”

Putting her hoof to her muzzle, Pinkemena spoke thoughtfully.

“I suppose I should go in order of our hierarchy, shouldn’t I? Well, that means…starting from the bottom would be Narcissism. And that one’s easily the least powerful because she’s dead.”

***

***Within a different dating simulation***

“Darling, hooves off my furniture.”

Rainbow Dash swiftly removed her hooves, which she had lain on Rarity’s coffee table, not wishing to anger her. The former of which was now frowning.

“I’m sorry, Dash. It’s hard to remember, you aren’t our original Dashie, sometimes.”

“You miss her that much?”

Rarity smiled wickedly at her.

“Well of course I do…She belonged to me after all, just as you do.”

***

Pinkemena shuddered.

“But you can’t really discuss Dashie’s Narcissism without mentioning Rare’s Selfishness. Those two were thick as thieves; with Dashie’s ability to see only herself being so great that just by ignoring the existence of others, she could make them actually disappear as if they were never there. And then there was Rare’s gift of Disharmony; her Selfishness.

Beyond mere greed of coveting what she wanted, Rare has the ability to be so selfish that she can literally declare something a possession, and no one will argue, not even the actual owner. Anything, anything at all, or any creature; if she desires it, it becomes her possession. That is if AJ doesn’t con her out of it.”

***

“Have you forgotten, Rare? You told me she was more than a possession and Dash’s choices were her own to make.”

Looking indignant, Rarity nearly shouted.

“I did no such thing, Applejack.”

Grinning and tilting the prized stetson of her late father, AJ replied.

“Oh really, well if I recall correctly…”

For the next five minutes, AJ explained how, where, and when, that Rare had expressed this desire; as well as what caused it and why. Dash sat there in silence listening to the tale, in awe, as AJ explained it all in excruciating detail.

***

Pinkemena grinned as Chrysalis asked about this ‘AJ’.

“AJ is the Element of Deceit, and she could be considered one of the scariest of us all, though not in raw power. Still watching her break a tree in half, with her hind legs, using a single tap, was pretty phenomenal.

You see, she has a talent for lying; to the point even knowing it to be a lie, you’ll agree with whatever she tells you. No creatures aside from Twilight and Starlight were able to see through her web of falsehood. We would often use her to convince kings, and queens that everything was fine while we took out their forces. None could debate her words, and all agreed with her. Yet, not a single word she speaks is ever true.”

***

Rarity stared at AJ as she wove her web, detailing every event that happened, and she nodded.

“Oh, Darling you’re right, I must have forgotten. Sorry about that Dash.”

Glancing in disbelief at Rare, Dash turned her attention back to Applejack who winked, knowingly back at her.

“Yeah, no problem Rarity. Hey, why don’t we go do some more shopping? I know how you love your possessions. Applejack, why don’t you join us?”

***

Pinkie giggled, as Pinkemena continued her explanation.
“As for Suffering, well that one is mine. You would never catch me on the frontlines; my specialty was torture and causing my victims to feel hopeless. I was used for interrogations, alongside Shy. Which brings me to the Element of Cruelty; Shy.”

Continuing to tickle Pinkie under her chin, Chrysalis smiled as she gave a squeal of delight. In disbelief at the statement, she looked at Pinkemena, voicing her doubts.

“Fluttershy? That Pegasus representing Cruelty?”

“You shouldn’t underestimate her.”

Surprisingly, it was Pinkie who said this. Chrysalis looked down at her and asked her curiously.

“Are you sure, we are talking about the same Fluttershy?”

Pinkie nodded.

“Wicked and blackhearted, Shy was known for being malicious for the sake of feeling like it; physical, mental, and emotional pain, she would spare none. Though she eagerly inflicted wounds, she would never kill her targets; instead, she would drive them to madness, bringing them to the brink and mercilessly pushing them over.

Not one of her victims survived an encounter with her; going insane and finally ending their own torment using their own hooves. She would then feed their corpses to her pet manticores usually with the victim’s own family watching, as she prepared for those unfortunates to join their loved ones.”

Chrysalis looked a bit surprised.

“Really? But she seems so gentle; like she wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

Pinkemena chuckled.

“And she wouldn’t, not nowadays, anyway.”

“What caused such a drastic change, I wonder?”

Pinkie chimed in, giggling.

“Oh, well you see-”

***

***In the Mettalurgy Veterinarian’s Tent***

Carefully, Fluttershy examined the delicate wings of the mechanical phoenix before her. Above her a sign hung on the wall:

Don’t Make a Sound

The owner of the phoenix, Starlight Glimmer, sat stock-still watching in complete silence; awestruck, as Fluttershy hummed quietly to herself, checking over the creature.

The metal that comprised its flesh, was a burnished red, a sign of internal burning, but that was of no concern to Fluttershy. Currently, the bird was deactivated for her inspection, and being a phoenix was always on fire internally, when it was activated. What did concern her, however, was how the left wing refused to bend when she tried to raise it.

Fluttershy felt her frustration rising as she tested it. The color is pristine, the gears show no wear or tear, the scan indicated no discrepancies. What is causing this? Starlight looked up from her pet in surprise; the humming had stopped. On Fluttershy’s face was an expression of annoyance.

For the past few hours, she had run every possible test she could think of. And none of it had given her the answer. Then it happened, the tipping point.

“Hey, Flutters, are you-”

Starlight stopped mid-sentence as Fluttershy snapped up to look at her. The LEDs in the Pegasus’s ocular receptors flickering in the corners; a well-known, telltale sign of anger. Starlight watched, startled as Fluttershy looked about to snap. And just as the Pegasus opened her mouth to rage, the lights in her eyes went completely dark.

At first, Starlight thought something had happened, but then she heard the sharp, deep inhale from Fluttershy. Turning her head, Fluttershy’s eyes lit up once more as she opened her eyes to stare at the picture on the wall.

That burned photo, with its corners, ripped and torn; having barely survived Ponyville’s destruction, the last memory she had of her husband, of their little bunny. Of Discord and Angel Bunny. At once, a serene expression flowed across Fluttershy’s face; an unnatural calm, with a small smile on her muzzle.

Turning back to Starlight, she wore a joyous expression and simply pointed to the sign above her, humming gently once more. Starlight silently nodded and sat back down while Fluttershy went back to inspecting the phoenix. It was then that Fluttershy noticed the single grain of rust wedged in the wing joint.

“A-ha! There it is.”

***

Pinkie’s eyes twinkled as she finished explaining to Chrysalis.

“The reason she doesn’t embrace her inner darkness is that she fell in love.”

Chrysalis looked doubtful as she gently scratched behind Pinkemena’s ear; eliciting a sudden squeal of delight from the Element of Suffering.

“Really? That sounds rather cheesy.”

Pinkie giggled at the rare sight of her other half having fun.

“And it was. And it is exactly what happened.”

Crooking an eyebrow, Chrysalis watched in amusement as Pinkemena pushed her hoof away; the latter having turned the color of ripened cherries, and clearly embarrassed.

“Do tell.”

Pinkemena straightened up and sighed; almost depressedly at the memory.

“It was 25 years ago, I remember it to this day. The Elements of Disharmony had been dispatched by Princess Luna to strike down King Sombra of the Crystal Empire. We were to dethrone him and set the stage for Luna’s niece to seize control; Princess Cadance. After he was relieved of his head by Starlight, Shy and I left the others to fight against Twilight, without us.

We focused our efforts on Sombra’s main support; Discord, a malevolent spirit that manifested and controlled the strings of reality with chaos magic. Surprisingly, he was much easier to capture and detain than we would have thought. With him bound, we were sure we could get information on how to take out Twilight, now that she wore a strange amulet that multiplied her already strong magical prowess.

We soon found out it wasn’t us who had him at our mercy. No, he had let it happen…”

***

***25 years ago***

“Shy, this isn’t working.”

Shy, the Element of Cruelty and Pinkemena, the Element of Suffering stood side-by-side before a heavily bound, and chained-up Draconiqus that sat on a chair. Behind them, the barricaded door of the Crystal Library resounded with the fierce, futile pounding of guards trying to break in.

The Pegasus’s eyes narrowed at these words. For hours the two had been systematically trying to break the smug self-proclaimed Lord of Chaos, to no avail. He sat there, mocking them, a smirk on his lips as the cuts and wounds upon his form slowly dripped a viscous red onto the carpeted floor below him. He winked at her, which did not help Shy’s mood at all.

Without a word, she swiftly raised her forehoof which held Pinkemena’s knife; driving it deep into the shoulder of the speaker. Pinkemena screamed in agony, but Shy didn’t blink as, still staring at Discord, she snapped aggressively at her cohort.

“Stop crying over a flesh wound, Pinkemena, I barely struck you! Now shut up, and go take care of those noisy guards. I’ll have him singing soon enough.”

Eyeing her with a mirthful grin, Discord taunted her.

“Oh? And just what could you possibly do that you haven’t already?”

As the screams of the Royal Guards were heard behind her, Shy grinned. Her soft blue eyes twinkled with what could only have been described as demonic light. Raising the hoof holding the still dripping knife, Shy lowered it slowly, until it was just pressed against Discord’s inner thigh. As she saw the realization building in his eyes, she whispered softly.

“Can you feel the sharpness? That biting edge? That stinging sensation? Just a little more pressure and I could effortlessly remove your stallionhoo-”

Snapping his griffon talon, Discord chortled as he ended up behind Shy, completely unharmed, unchained, and clearly amused.

“Oh my, you are a vicious one, aren’t you? I had you pegged for wicked, but to go to such le-Ungh!”

His monologue was interrupted as Shy lashed out with her hind leg, slamming it with all a strength on par with AJ herself, right below Discord’s waist; causing the Lord of Chaos to double over in immense pain. While he was writhing in agony, Shy whirled around and grabbed him in a headlock, pointing the knife blade right betwixt his eyes.

“How did you get loose?”

Discord’s eyes twinkled. He wheezed, happily.

“You are quite ruthless, aren’t you?”

With the snap of his griffon talon, he appeared floating above the furious Pegasus; his voice almost mocking her.

"Well alright, I'll tell you,

but in my special way,

You see, you made a big mistake,

or two, while capturing me today.

I am the Lord of Chaos,

yet you ask how I got free?

Well, you see…

Your first mistake,

you tied me up, in tight-fitting chains,

Anypony could tell you,

You can't hold chaos's reigns.

You slashed at me, you cut me deep,

And were admittedly quite rough.

The problem there for you,

Is I rather like that stuff.”

Sneering, Shy yelled back at him.

“So what? You’re just another magic user to me. Just another imbecile who thinks that they are out of reach because they can teleport-”

Quick as a flash, Shy hurled Pinkemena’s knife, causing the tip to be embedded in Discord’s arm, paralyzing his griffon’s claw. Immediately after throwing it, Shy leaped up and slammed her forehooves into his skull. As Discord crashed to the ground in utter shock, Shy slowly fluttered her wings to land before him once more. Grabbing the nape of his mane, she growled.

“Don’t think you can fool me, oh mighty Lord of Chaos. You could easily have dodged my strikes. Quit playing with me or my next strike removes your head. Why are you allowing this to happen?”

Grinning, while wincing in pain, he whispered.

“A mare as vile and wicked,

As my own chaotic mind.

Let me tell you now,

I've wanted it for quite a time.

You see, being callous,

Is never quite as fun,

when you are all alone,

inside your mind,

the only one of your kind.

And so I saw you,

as you tortured allies;

both yours and mine.

And I just knew together,

We could have a wicked time.”

Shy spat on the ground in disgust, looking at him. Rolling her eyes, she snorted.

“I expected more from a so-called Chaos Lord. What could a sniveling cretin like you possibly have, that I would want?”

Chuckling mirthfully, he simply answered.

“Information on how to stop Twilight from killing your so-called friends.”

Glaring at him, Shy shouted.

“Are you bucking kidding me, right now?”

Smiling sweetly, Discord slowly pulled out the knife embedded in his arm, before snapping his griffon’s talon; conjuring a bouquet of white roses speckled with dark red splotches.

“Not at all. I am being quite serious, black-hearted one.”

Shy was stunned, she looked from the blood roses to Discord and back to the bouquet in his mismatched hands. Walking in, and completely covered head-to-hooves in dripping crimson, Pinkie Pie watched as the fiend known as Shy lifted up her hoof.

Shy took a single rose from the bouquet and sniffed it, the faintest ghost of a smile appearing on her muzzle.

***

“And that was how it started; a week later Shy had cut up the bouquet to make cuttings and the next spring, the hillside outside of her cottage was covered with white blood roses.”

Chrysalis looked a bit dubious.

“So just like that, she became meek and mild? Because of love at first sight?”

Pinkemena shook her head, explaining.

“No. No, it wasn’t anything like instant romance for those two. It was slow and frankly wild to watch. And one week they were yelling, the next shopping; within a year the two had moved in together. We all watched as almost like a strange, warped play on a stage, their vicious and cold-blooded natures were slowly twisted and shifted.

She went from utterly brutal to refusing to interrogate anypony without Discord, and shortly after would ask Starlight and Princess Luna for time off to tour Equus with Discord. It was pretty fascinating, and why are you looking at me like that-”

Chrysalis smirked as Pinkemena pointed her knife at her, noticing the blade was no longer embedded in the stone beside her.

“If you think just because we’re dating, that I’ll turn into some goody-four hooves like Shy-”

Swiftly her voice faltered, as Chrysalis quickly grabbed her in a headlock. Looking down into her eyes, Chrysalis hissed at her.

“Don’t you dare-”

Gently kissing Pinkemena on the cheek, she whispered in a more tender voice.

“I like you just the way you are. Knife and all.”

The meekest of squeaks came from Pinkemena as her counterpart rolled on the marble tile, lost in a fit of laughter. That laughter stopped suddenly, turning into a squeal of delight, as Chrysalis wrapped her in a fierce hug moments later, whispering just as tenderly.

“That includes you, as well. I like you, both sides of you, and all of who you are. Just the way you are. You don’t need to change for me.”

“You are so insufferable, you know that?”

Slowly letting go, she turned as Pinkemena let out a snort. The Element of Suffering was grumbling angrily, but the smile on her face as she plopped down beside Chrysalis, told another story.

Rolling her eyes, Chrysalis pulled Pinkemena to lay against her, nuzzling her heavily.

“Yeah, yeah. Just shut up and take it, you pink nuisance.”

After a few more minutes of forced, yet very willing, cuddling, Chrysalis looked down at her.

“Though, I am curious about something about you.”

“What’s that, Chrysi?”

“You’ve mentioned before that the Elements are a combination of Harmony and Disharmony within each of the six vessels, with Disharmony being the original versions that found and merged with their inner lights.”

“Yes, that’s right.”

“Well I’m curious, do each of the Elements possess their own personalities and forms within their one body, or is this unique to the two of you?”

Pinkemena looked startled as the knife fell from her hooves, and clattered to the floor.

“It’s…just me, Chrysi.”

Raising an eye to this, Chrysalis asked dubiously.

“Just you?”

Looking downcast, Pinkemena sighed sadly.

“Yes.”

Immediately, she found herself entangled in a warm embrace as Chrysalis smirked.

“Good.”

“Wha-”

“That just means I got somepony special, doesn’t it?”

After wrestling for a moment, with Pinkemena ending up pinned beneath her, Chrysalis looked over at Pinkie and asked her curiously.

“But why is it just you?”

Pinkie giggled at the sight of Chrysalis, who was now sitting on Pinkemena’s muzzle, and the wicked grin on her face.

“Because it makes ‘Mena smile!”

Blinking Chrysalis, looked at her, slowly repeating the words in confusion.

“Because…it makes…her…smile?”

A muffled shout came from beneath Crysalis’s flank, and Pinkie frowned.

“I think if she was gonna leave you, Mena, she would have done so already like the rest.”

Staring at Chrysalis and smiling sweetly, Pinkie told her.

“That’s the big secret, Chrysi. That’s how we can do as we please, without anypony having a clue. The Elements of Laughter and Suffering are based entirely on the ability to smile. Two sides and one coin. If it makes others smile, I can do it. But if it makes Mena smile, then she can do it.”

Chrysalis gave a wolfish grin, as beneath her, Pinkemena gave up struggling to get free.

“So, if I understand this correctly, whatever makes others smile, you can make happen. And whatever makes Pinkemena herself smile, she can make happen?”

Giggling, Pinkie nodded and in a singsong voice said.

“That’s right!~”

Slowly rising from her resting position on top of Pinkemena’s face, Chrysalis’s eyes shined with malice. Her voice became dangerously seductive.

“Ooh, I see~. Well, in that case, one thing would make me really happy. If I think about it really hard, could the two of you make it happen?”

Pinkemena stood back up, and standing next to Pinkie, she let her other half wipe the wetness off her muzzle with a damp cloth that had appeared in her hoof. Both stared at Chrysalis curiously the entire time. Pinkemena sputtered as Pinkie furiously washed her muzzle.

“ Pft- Only if it makes me smile, otherwise, only Pphgft- Pinkie can.”

“Well in that case…”

Looking square into Pinkie’s eyes, Chrysalis slowly closed her own and after a moment opened her eyes, letting out an excited squeal. There, within each Element’s hooves, lay a single, solitary black rose.

Taking it from the utterly confused Pinkemena, Chrysalis exclaimed.

“Oh, it is exactly what I wanted!”

Leaning down, Chrysalis kissed her and winked playfully at Pinkie; who then fell to the tile in a rolling fit of laughter.

“Thanks, sweetie, I’m so glad you like making me smile.”

Pinkemena’s eyes narrowed into a glare, completely unable to hide the goofy, lovestruck smile on her face, her treasured knife in her hoof once more as she shouted.

“You are so insufferable!”

Chrysalis’s laughter echoed throughout the simulated spa, as Pinkemena leaped at her, blade first, that same goofy smile plastered unabashedly across her muzzle.

***

Sighing, Flurry Heart sat at the reception desk; bored out of her mind. Occasionally, she would glance over at a monitor, which showed the various simulations in progress. Flipping through them, and making sure her clients were satisfied, she dropped her head onto the desk. Nothing ever happens in this world. Ugh-

“Flurry Heart, I would like to reserve a machine for a week from now. Hello? Exuus to Flurry…Are you alright?”

The Heiress of Love was startled by a notification popping up on her display, from Starlight, containing the words:

Wake up!

Snapping to attention, Flurry blinked as she found herself staring into Starlight’s smiling face. Addressing the Princess, Flurry Heart gave a flourished bow.

“Oh, your Majesty, sorry about that, how can I help you?”

Starlight, however, had turned away to look at the machine where Pinkie Pie and Chrysi sat, jacked in, and powered down. Musing out loud, Starlight said.

“I’m so happy she’s having fun.”

Flurry, in surprise, asked her.

“You know her?”

Starlight turned and grinned at her.

“Of course I do. That’s my daughter.”

Startled, Flurry nearly shouted.

“Your…Daughter?”

Chapter 18- Applejack: Closed Alpha v.1.0

***1 week before Twilight was repaired***

Feeling the comforting sensation of the rustic floorboards, once more beneath her hooves, AJ wore a huge smile as the rest of her materialized within the simulation that she had called home for the past four years. Looking around at the rustic interior of the room, she felt just as she once had back when she could still feel.

Hanging on the wall were two mugshots; her mom and dad, when they were in the prime of their youth. She stared at it, intensely. Both wore joyful smiles; having treated it as just another lark. 45 years ago, in their youth, the two were infamous for robbing every major bank across Equestria. And then they tangled with Princess Luna; having in a drunken stupor decided to rob the royal. Nearly losing their lives in a strange twist of fate, they were the cause for Starlight’s adoption into the royal family.

***

***45 years ago***

“And so I say farewell, to my treasured advisors, and it is with bittersweet feelings I shall accept the role of mothering their daughter, as is my duty as her Godmother.”

Stepping down from the podium, the Alicorn Princess slowly walked towards a pair of Earthponies, who sat, tied and bound in heavy chains, not even Luna could break. Leaning down to glare into the faces of the pair, Luna spoke quietly to the two.

“If you so much as open your mouths, I will bury you where you sit. Normally, I would not bat an eyelid at the murder of one or two of my subjects, however, you did not kill a random subject or two, did you? No, you killed MY advisors and then tried to empty MY coffers. And not to mention, you endangered MY Goddaughter in the process.”

On her back, a giggling foal poked a hoof curiously at Luna’s starry mane. Luna winced as the foal pulled on her mane and began chewing on it, as happy as could be; entirely unaware her mother and father had been eternally laid to rest beneath the loamy soil of a willow tree.

Watching as they shivered beneath her unblinking gaze, Luna kept her tone even, while her form shook in utter rage.

“I’ve entertained a fair number of ideas on how to exact my excruciating vengeance upon you two. At first, I considered keeping you alive and letting my guards use your bodies as training dummies. Perhaps I could set you on fire and force you to serve as the kitchen’s oven, unable to ever find relief from the pain as my magic prevented you from dying, while you roasted vegetables cooked over your bodies on a spit?

That’s right. I’m not going to kill you. That is far too lenient for what you two have done to me. Shall we go over your crimes together?”

As the infant’s eyes slowly closed to the small rocking motion of Luna’s flank, Luna used her horn to summon and levitate a parchment before her.

“Let’s see, according to the report: 6 hoofcrafted vases, from before Equestria, were shattered. You managed to somehow vandalize my throne in your attempted escape. Oh, let’s not forget Clover the Clever’s Journal was set on fire by you clumsy oafs; as well as my entire feather flipping library. Misty Mane’s sacred mask, shattered by your hooves. What’s this? MY sister’s picture as well? So you managed to break into my chambers, did you? And the list goes on…Stained glass windows…my chamber doors …And finally…You spilled blood all over the 1,600 thread count saddle Arabian rug, given to me by Sonambula; knitted by her as a peace offering. Do you know why my priceless rug has blood all over it...Because you slaughtered my Head Advisors on it!”

Towering over the two helpless Earthponies, Luna resembled a voracious adder, eyeing its prey; her eyes, narrowed in malice and unblinking, doing nothing to dissuade the notion. Opening her muzzle, she spoke quietly to the two.

“Now then, as I am a benevolent and just ruler, I shall give you two options to choose from, listen carefully. Your first option is to work off this towering debt. No, I don’t mean the gold and trinkets you stole or broke in my castle. I’m referring to the lives of my advisors, and yes they were worth quite a bit to me.

I happen to have vacant farmland; a quaint 30 or so acres, covered with a grove of Apple trees in need of being harvested on a daily basis. They sit on that land, enchanted by myself to produce ripe apples every 16 hours from when they’re picked. If you decide to choose this option, you and your kin will mind this land for me.

Every day, you’ll harvest those apples for the neighboring towns and communities. You’ll sweat under the unforgiving sun, and you’ll be afforded no breaks as you use your own hind hooves to knock down the harvest; by kicking the trees. You’ll of course be forbidden from using anything other than those and wooden baskets.

“Naturally, you’ll receive nothing for your troubles, not even gratitude. All you will have is a single barn, an outhouse, and nothing else; I will personally make sure of that. Of course, there is another option you may choose as well.”

Walking slowly behind them, Luna placed her hooves around their shoulders and whispered.

“Choice number two, is you WILL pick choice number one. Take your time, no rush, consider your options before choosing. Let me know when you’ve made your decision.”

***

Applejack’s eyes narrowed in anger at the photos. She had hated growing up on that wretched farm; that hard, ceaselessly back-breaking labor. Snorting in derision, she turned away from the mugshots, causing another photo to catch her eye. It sat by her bed, on the nightstand; a picture of Applejack and her sister Applebloom in maids outfits, frilled and lacey. And standing between them was Starlight. All three wore bright smiles, and looking at it, always had that effect on AJ; a wide smile appearing on her face.

A moment in time, frozen forever in a snapshot, and one AJ treasured; the very day she had met Princess Starlight Glimmer, for the first time, shortly after AJ got her cutie mark. Hard to believe that was a little over thirty years ago.

***

“Get off mah fence.”

Completely ignoring the irate shout, a lilac Unicorn mare stood on her hind legs, resting her forehooves on the oak fence. Cheerfully, she spoke to AJ.

“I’m looking for an AJ, would you happen to know her?”

AJ looked at the mare, sizing her up. She seemed to be nothing special; lean build, her legs were scrawny; built clearly for running from a fight, not participating in one. No really stand-out qualities of strength on the lilac-hued hide. Aside from the image of a falling star for a cutie mark, nothing really said special. Probably just another annoying pony come to gawk at her suffering, like the rest.

“Hmph. Get off mah fence, and go away. Ah gotta get back ta work, Ah ain’t got time ta waste with yer kind.”

Turning to walk away, AJ was startled by a silky voice from beside her, as a hoof was placed on her neck.

“Oh Sugarcube, you have never met one of my kind, I can assure you.”

Immediately, AJ turned and slammed her forehoof into the Unicorn’s muzzle with enough force to shatter timber. The loud crunching sound as it struck the mare’s jaw was audible, but she didn’t budge; not even flinching as the hoof was slammed into her muzzle.

In complete and utter shock that the mare didn’t just crumple under the impact, AJ stayed frozen for a second; her hoof still against the mare’s snout. Without a sound, the Unicorn calmly raised her hoof up, and forced AJ’s down; the smile on her face more pronounced as her eyes narrowed.

“Pretty feisty for a beast of burden, aren’t you? I have half a mind to kill you, but I can’t help but notice you never gave me an answer. Do you know AJ? I need to talk to her. Tell me, and I might just spare your miserable life.”

Stammering AJ exclaimed.

“That’s impossible, Ah…How did ya survive that? Ah kicked you with all mah strength!”

Shrugging, the mare responded simply.

“That was your best? Felt pretty weak to me. Perhaps when you wake up, you can finally answer my question.”

“What do ya mean when Ah wake-”

AJ’s words were cut off as a hoof was slammed with tremendous force into the side of her head. Falling to the ground from the impact, she blinked as the world spun around her. With darkness closing in, AJ listened as the Unicorn leaned down and whispered softly in her ear.

“That is how you kick a pony. Sleep well. We’ll talk later.”

And then, AJ knew nothing more until she woke up, hours later.

***

The starry night sky, greeted AJ as she opened her eyes. What happened? Slowly sitting upright, AJ let out a sudden screech as an immeasurable wave of pain washed over her. Nearby, a familiar voice said simply.

“Oh good, you’re finally awake. Are you ready to answer my question yet? Oh come on, I held back, suck it up. It can’t hurt that bad.”

AJ had fallen backward, writhing in agony from the sudden shock as her body cried out in anguish. The Unicorn from earlier just sighed; she had been waiting for AJ to wake and had enjoyed the now-shattered peace of the night. Rising up to her hooves, she slowly walked over and stared down at the hapless AJ; who was holding her hooves over her face as she screamed non-stop.

Her eyes narrowed in annoyance after a moment, the Unicorn sat down on top of AJ and snapped at her.

“That’s enough of that. Quit whining, stop your thrashing, and lower your hooves; let me see!”

Wrestling with the distraught AJ, the Unicorn was utterly amazed at the vice-like grip the Earthpony possessed; finding it completely impossible to move her hooves from AJ’s face. The more the Unicorn struggled, the more she began to worry. As she successfully managed to finally pull AJ’s hooves away, she flinched at the gruesome sight.

The skull was smashed inwards, and AJ’s eye was a mangled, deflated mess. The fact that the Earthpony was even still alive was a clear indication of powerful magic at play. Staring at it for a moment, the Unicorn seemed unconcerned; casually saying as her horn glowed brightly with light blue magic.

“Hm. Well alright, I guess that could be rather painful. Alright, let’s get you back on your hooves.”

With a satisfied expression on her face, the lilac-furred mare watched the screaming stop as AJ’s face and skeletal structure was completely rebuilt. Moments later, she sat, straddling AJ and admiring her handiwork; perhaps a bit too long, as she was sent flying by AJ, a second later.

AJ stumbled to her hooves to find the Unicorn giggling. Angrily, she shouted at her.

“What’s so funny? Ya break into mah farm, ya cause meh ta miss mah quota, Celestia knows what Princess Luna will do tah meh now, and ya nearly kill meh! It ain’t funny.”

The Unicorn seeing the hurt look in AJ’s eyes, immediately ceased laughing, and stated calmly.

“Sorry about nearly killing you there, it wasn’t intentional. I just didn’t realize you were that strong!”

Aj was confused. Not only did this strange mare sound impressed, but what did she mean by not realizing AJ was that strong? And why didn’t bothering Princess Luna concern this Unicorn?

“What’re ya talking about, ya hit meh! My kick didn’t do anythin’ ta ya.”

Looking surprised for a moment, the mare rolled her eyes as a look of realization spread across her face.

“Oh, right. Here, let me show you.”

AJ was utterly confused as the strange mare walked over to a massive oak tree and held up her forehoof. Closing her eyes, the mare slammed the unyielding tree with clearly all her strength causing an audible crunch, followed by intense wincing from the mare.

AJ’s eyes went wide as the mare’s foreleg had a sharp spike of bone sticking out of the side, and the tree didn’t have so much as a scratch on its bark. The Unicorn cried out in pain as her horn swiftly lit up and the foreleg was restored, panting from the effort. Glancing at AJ, she gestured to the tree.

“Your turn.”

AJ raised an eyebrow.

“Mah what?”

“It’s your turn, get over here and hit this tree as I did. Now!”

AJ didn’t understand it, as she slowly walked towards the tree, feeling strangely embarrassed. The mare had spoken with absolute authority, one that resonated with something inside of her, and one AJ couldn’t refuse. Who is this strange mare? And why am I even doing this? No answers came to her as she took her place alongside the tree, holding out her hoof as the Unicorn had. AJ closed her eyes and mustered all her strength.

“Yah!”

With a shout, AJ slammed the backside of her foreleg into the tree’s hard bark, removing it to reveal a one-inch deep gash in the trunk. Beside her, the mare gave a low whistle at the display of strength.

“Yep, you are a lot stronger than any Earthpony I’ve met. Alright, now strike me.”

AJ blinked in surprise. Had she heard right?

“Ah…What?”

Smiling sweetly, the lilac-hued mare said firmly, and somewhat excitedly.

“I said hit me. As hard as you possibly can. Hold nothing back.”

Looking dubious, AJ thought about earlier and asked nervously.

“Ya ain’t gonna hit meh again…are ya?”

Smirking the mare responded, flipping her violet mane playfully, the seafoam-colored stripe twinkling in the moonlight.

“Not if you don’t hold back. Now, everything you got. Hit me!”

Still non-plussed, AJ found herself turning around and tensing the toned muscles in her hind legs, before releasing them in a sudden burst; slamming both of her hind hooves into the Unicorn’s barrel with an audible crunch. Turning around and fearing she might have overdone it, AJ was bewildered to see the Unicorn completely unfazed and unharmed. As AJ gawked at her, she once more lifted up her hoof with a grin.

“Watch.”

Slamming it into the rough bark once more, this time there was an audible cracking sound as the Unicorn’s hoof tore through the fibrous timbers of the old tree, breaking clear through to the other side and separating the trunk of the massive oak, from its bottom, and sending the tree toppling down the hill to rest at the bottom.

“That-”

The mare chuckled, looking extremely pleased with herself, calmly sauntering over and lifting her hoof up to shut AJ’s gaping maw.

“-Is how strong you are against me. Sugarcube.”

AJ was in utter shock, it didn’t make any sense to her. If she couldn’t do that before, then how-? That’s when it hit her. The kick from before. It had happened after she herself had kicked her. And now, the tree after the Unicorn had demanded she strike her. The lightbulb in AJ’s mind came on. Lowering her voice, she spoke carefully, as though methodically trying to work it out.

“Ya used mah strength ta bolster yer own…Somehow ya absorbed th’ impact from mah blow and… then used it ta strengthen yer next strike.”

Looking rather impressed, the Unicorn replied in a gentle, and strangely praising tone.

“That’s pretty well thought out for a slave. You are quite intelligent aren’t you?”

The hackles on AJ’s neck bristled at the word ‘slave’. She hated that word; having heard the loud jeers from citizens of Ponyville as they mocked her each day. As much as she despised it, however, there was no denying that was exactly what she was. Declared the property of Princess Luna, AJ had been forced to labor for no pay, for the mistakes of her parents. AJ had been denied the ability to leave the orchard.

She had not been allowed to attend schooling, which was reflected in the mannerism of the adolescent’s speech; the accent not so much as intended as AJ’s best attempt to pronounce words. Having never been taught normal Ponish, AJ had first learned to speak by mimicking her daily tormentors. Angrily, she snapped at the Unicorn.

“Ah ain’t no slave!”

“But you are-”

AJ froze, as the Unicorn whispered in her ear, a hypnotic and almost tender tone.

“Just a slave. You and every pony in your family; living purely by my mother’s blessing. But you see, I’ve purchased this little farm from my mother, and as such, I’ve purchased your home, your family, and I’ve purchased you.”

AJ felt a shiver of anxiety creep down her spine, as the Unicorn touched the back of her neck before continuing with her mesmerizing, strangely evocative tone.

“Every bit of you belongs to me. From your fiery will-”

AJ felt the mare slowly trail her hoof down her spine towards her hindquarters as she spoke. And still, AJ was unable to move.

“To your well-toned form. Every inch of your very essence belongs to me now.”

Suddenly an involuntary quiver shot down AJ’s hind legs, as the Unicorn sharply smacked her flank, before walking calmly to the front of the spellbound Earthpony; staring her square in the eyes.

“To do with as I please. Oh, goodness! Sugarcube, It’s okay to breathe, you know.”

AJ exhaled sharply, having held her breath, unknowingly, throughout the entire exchange. Gasping and panting heavily, AJ whispered.

“What sorcery is this? An’ why do ya keep calling meh Sugarcube?”

Taking a step back, and smirking at the obviously flustered state of AJ, the Unicorn laughed lightly.

“I’m not casting any magic, but it does seem you’ve fallen under quite the spell. As for why I call you Sugarcube, I find your antics adorable and your figure rather sweet to look at. Why? Do you mind being called Sugarcube by me?”

AJ’s face flushed the color of a ripe Red Delicious, as she muttered in an almost desperate manner.

“No, Ah dun really mind…It feels kinda nice, actually, but Ah does have a name, ya know.”

“Well, before you tell me yours, Sugarcube, let me tell you mine.”

AJ watched as the Unicorn gave a flourished bow and seemed to almost glow in the silvery moonlight.

“My name is Starlight Glimmer, and I am the daughter of Princess Luna. Now then, what is your name?”

Opening her mouth to speak, AJ found no words coming forth. Staring into the confident eyes of Starlight as she stared expectantly back, AJ found herself unable to think of anything but her actual name. She had intended to lie, to avoid her actual name, but all she could think of was her actual name. Lowering her eyes in utter submission and her body becoming uncomfortably warmer by the second, AJ answered Starlight in an almost unnatural level of respect.

“AJ. Mah name’s…AJ. Yer er…majesty.”

“None of that now.”

AJ glanced up at Starlight in confusion. Had she said something wrong?

“Ahm…sorry?”

Starlight stared back at her, her eyes shining brightly.

“Oh don’t get me wrong, I’ll most certainly have you calling me by an m-word title soon enough, but it definitely won’t be ‘Majesty’, and you’ll probably end up screaming it throughout the night. Still, Tartarus before Celestia, as mother always says.”

AJ felt her ears burning and was sure her face now resembled a tomato, with embarrassment at Starlight’s words. Starlight felt a twinge of amusement at the sight before her, before continuing, her tone shifting from evocative to that of a pained sorrow.

“Until then, just call me Starlight. I am no royal. At least not at the moment. Mom insisted that the time has come to prove my worth. As a result, I have been relieved of my status as heir until I show her my mettle in the real world. And so I’ve used what was left in my coffers to buy you and this farm, and a few other properties as well.”

“Mmkay, but-”

“And my first order of business is to shut it down.”

“Ah beg yer pardon?”

“Not right now, you can do that later. What you can do is head to the entrance and wait for me there. And no-”

Smiling gently and leaning closer until she was just mere inches from touching lips, Starlight whispered.

“That was not a suggestion, Sugarcube. Go on, giddy-up. Now.”

Watching in satisfaction as AJ galloped away, towards the entryway of Sweet Apple Acres, Starlight turned, with a wide smile, back to face the orchard that had been the Apple’s greatest torment under her mother’s hooves; her horn glowing and crackling with an intensely blue glow.

“One down.”

***

Approaching the gatepost, AJ found Applebloom waving at her; holding some weird lacey outfit in her hooves, and wearing a joyful smile. The little filly seemed to be excited about something.

“Hey, sis! Starlight said ta’ tell ya ta wear this by the time she showed up. Not sure what this is fer though.”

AJ watched as the little filly held up a strange almost choker-like necklace; forged of radiant gold and embedded with a strange orange stone cut in the shape of an apple. Underneath the stone hung a just as brilliant rose gold dog tag, which was engraved with just two letters: AJ. What is this?

Clumsily struggling to put on the filly-sized black and white maid’s outfit, AJ took the strange choker from her little sister.

“Ya say she gave ya this ta give me? Isn’t this more yore size? Dern thing doesn’t fit!”

As a loud tearing sound was heard, she sighed.

“Great, now she’ll be all mad at meh. When did ya talk to ‘er anyway?”

“Well, how do ya think she found ya, AJ? I told her where you was when she arrived! She was so nice. She told meh we would never have ta pick apples again if Ah listened to ‘er. Ah like ‘er.”

The golden choker felt strange in her hooves; heavy and yet, natural like she was meant to wear it. Slowly, she placed it around her neck, clasping it into place. A small tingle traveled down AJ’s spine, just as Starlight appeared in a brilliant flash of blue.

Her body framed by the bright blue and white flames of the magical inferno that raged behind her, Starlight fell on the ground; rolling in a fit of laughter as she noticed AJ in the torn outfit.

“Oh gosh, Sugarcube! Hahaha, That outfit…Bwa ha ha!”

“Yeah, Ah think ya got the size wrong, Starlight…erm no offense.”

Ceasing her laughter and trying to stifle further giggles, Starlight nodded, as she lay on the ground holding her sides.

“Well of course it doesn’t fit you, it’s for Applebloom!”

Turning suddenly, her face as red as her namesake, AJ shouted at her sister.

“Ya said this was fer meh!”

Looking startled, Applebloom tried to protest, but to no avail.

“Ahm sorry sis, Ah thought…Ah musta mixed up th’ instructions!”

Turning back to Starlight as she rose from the ground, AJ asked her.

“So this weren’t a gift from ya then, Starlight?”

Starlight was a bit surprised at the almost hurt tone that the Earthpony was using, could it be she wanted such a gift as well? Smiling sweetly, her horn glowed a light blue and emitted a radiating flash of light, blinding AJ and her sister momentarily.

“I’ll tell you what, AJ. Since you do look rather adorable in that getup…”

The light faded, revealing both AJ and Applebloom in identical hoofmaid outfits, while the choker on AJ’s neck glinted in the silvery moonlight.

“You both can wear it. Oh, you both look so adorable, I need a picture of this!”

“Uh…”

“Smile!”

Both sisters smiled as the photo was taken, by a camera conjured by Starlight; both standing on either side of her, while in the background the magical fire raged on.

***

Applejack smiled lovingly at the memory. So much had happened since then; since that moment. That’s when her life changed forever. Sighing in contentment, she walked over to the doorway of her simulated bedroom and reached up to flip the switch, when something caught her eye.

There on a rusted nail, it hung; the gold having dulled over the years, the orange gem in the center, cracked and fragmented, and there underneath the gem, a half-melted platinum dog tag dangled. On it a single word: Sugarcube.

Giving it a momentary glance of longing, AJ grabbed her hat from a nearby hook before flipping the switch and stepping through the doorway into a hallway made of clouds; the sound of a running shower from the room across the hall reaching her ears.

Chapter 19: Pinkie Pie: Open Beta v1.0

***1 week before Twilight was repaired***

Starlight blinked in surprise as she stared down at the charging pads of the Element’s tent. Not only were the CMCs from before jacked in again alongside the Elements; recharging, but so was her own daughter.

There laying snuggled up against Pinkie Pie, lay Chrysi; the smile on her face saying it all. A cable connected Chrysi to Pinkie’s charging pad, and seeing this made Starlight chuckle; Chrysi was spending the recharge cycle at Pinkie’s house. I’m glad she’s found somepony she resonates with. I do hope she can handle Pinkie’s chaotic nature.

***

“So this is your home?”

“Yep. This is where I go during recharge. Actually, each of the Elements has dedicated partitioned apartments in this storage.”

Pinkemena flopped onto her half of the bed, twirling her knife, watching in amusement as Chrysalis raced around her apartment examining all the decorations. The entire room was split, right down the middle; with one side being clearly inspired by a festive partyer and the sheer hyperactivity of Pinkie Pie.

It featured balloons, sugary pop bottles, and a DJ stand that gave Chrysi a moment of pause as the vinyl records scratched themselves; reminiscent of a certain Unicorn in goggles she once knew. The floor was frequently changing colors like that of a nightclub while the music played from no visible speakers. Most startling, however, was Pinkie’s half of the bed was literally edible; her half of the pillow made of marshmallow, the half of the bedspread woven of frosting and, the mattress half was made of cake.

The other half was clearly the lair of a deranged pony, with gruesome trophies hanging on the walls, and the dripping style of the somehow wet, crimson “paint”. Faces contorted in eternal screams were stitched to various hides of many colors boasting very familiar cutie marks, comprised her half of the bedspread and pillow. Chrysalis wasn’t sure what Pinkemena’s side of the mattress was made of but just that it made a sickening squishing sound and screamed at her when she poked it. In fact, all the furniture on Pinkemena’s side of the room seemed to be made of a fleshy substance.

While that was pretty strange to Chrysalis, something on the wall caught her attention; a group of around 15 certificates, framed in forged gold and placed around a single photo of Pinkemena and Starlight. Calling back over her shoulder, Chrysalis shouted.

“Hey, Mena? What are these?”

“Huh? Oh, those are my credentials.”

“Credentials?”

“Of course, I’m not some random serial killer, Chrysi. I am certified to the highest degree, and before the metalling, I was well recognized in my field as one of the best.”

“Your field? So these-”

Chrysalis stared at the silver foiled lettering on one of the certificates:

Luna’s University of Vice

Upon recommendation of the faculty,

And upon authorization of the Board of Trustees has granted

Pinkemena Diane Pie

The Degree of

Master of Sociopathic Killing

Sociopathy

With all rights and privileges pertaining thereto.

Given under the seal of Luna’s University of Vice at Canterlot Kingdom, Equestria

Lunar 12, AL 1425

“Aren’t jokes?”

“Of course not, there was no way to make a real living off the wages of being a simple killer. I wanted a career, not a job, y’know.”

“You made money-”

Reading over another certificate, Chrysalis was amazed at all the levels of credentials Pinkemena seemed to have:

Luna’s University of Vice

Upon recommendation of the faculty.

And upon authorization of the Board of Trustees has granted

Pinkemena Diane Pie

The Degree of

Bachelor in Psychopathic Science

Psychopathy

With all rights and privileges pertaining thereto.

Given under the seal of Luna’s University of Vice at Canterlot Kingdom, Equestria

Lunar 12, AL 1420

“From killing others?”

Pinkie’s voice came from the kitchen; that Chrysalis was almost certain hadn’t existed a moment ago, where she seemed to be baking something.

“Yep! Mena was once known as the 7th richest being on Exuus.”

“Wait, what?”

Pinkemena laughed.

“It’s true. 140,000 average per kill for everyday creatures, and 465,000 or more for well-known individuals, and thankfully, I never had targets laid out for me; the joy of being a sociopath. Still, it took many years of study and practice to develop my own modus operandi.”

Calling out, Pinkie chimed in.

“But she did it! Starlight was so proud.”

“But how exactly did you get paid?”

Pinkemena gave a sort of lopsided smile.

“Sadly, it wasn’t as simple as just killing a pony and getting paid immediately, if that’s what you’re thinking. It usually took from days to weeks for payment to roll in. And required a lot of labor on my part.”

Chrysalis flopped down in the middle of the grotesquely gory, and frosting bedspread; pleasantly surprised; it felt like regular fabric. Gently pulling Mena against her, she whispered softly.

“We never had such careers in my world, tell me about it.”

Pinkemena looked surprised at this statement while nuzzling Chrysalis.

“Really? That’s a bit weir- oh! Right. Sorry, I forgot. Villains in your world weren’t tolerated were they?”

Chrysalis chuckled as she ran a hoof through Pikemena’s mane.

“Not. At. All. Though I doubt any of them were as sweet as you.”

“You know all this teasing makes me uncomfortable around you.”

Chrysalis giggled and whispered in her ear.

“Oh, does it, now?”

Pinkemena snuggled closer to her marefriend, and kissed her neck passionately.

“Unbearably so. You are so insufferable. I hate you so much, Chrysi.”

Chrysalis grinned and tickled Pinkamena’s chin.

“Good and don’t you forget it. So tell me about this career of yours, what was it like getting paid to kill others?”

Rolling over onto her back, Pinkemena sighed.

“I suppose I can tell you the basics, but let me preface this by saying that even the basics made it a hard career to make a living out of.”

Chrysalis looked surprised.

“Can’t anypony just kill another?”

Pinkemena shook her head, her tone rather serious.

“Regardless of knowledge, Princess Luna had a spell that prevented all from being paid above a skill level; no credentials, no payment. A starting paycheck was less than 15 bits a week. Barely enough for a hay on wheat sandwich, let alone rent.”

“Oh, wow.”

“Yeah, it’s a rough and demanding line of work, but let me tell you, there’s nothing like the rush it gives. Alright so to start, you get one kill per week. And the number one rule is: Don’t get caught. You cannot be seen taking a life, you can kill more than one target at once but if any witnesses escape, you get no commission.”

“So, is that it?”

Laughing, Pinkie could be heard calling from the kitchen as an oven slammed shut.

“Not even close!”

Pinkemena nodded.

“She’s right. Not only did I have to dispatch an individual of my choosing, but I also had to more or less stage the crime scene; decorate with splashes of blood, destroy nearby furniture, cause property damage and even the leaving of my calling card.”

Chrysalis seemed a bit curious at this reveal.

“But, why do all that if you didn’t want to get caught?”

The response that came from Pinkemena gave her chills.

“To put on a show.”

“Huh?”

“The murder is just the start. Not only do you need to commit the crime, but you also need it to be found quickly. The fresher a murder is when it is discovered, the better. You see, when the scene is initially discovered, the royal guards are called to preserve the crime scene. They magically coat and preserve every inch of it, and after rigorous attempts to discern the culprit, if they are unable to trace the criminal; name, address, etc… Then the scene is opened up for public viewing.

In front of a gathered crowd, the autopsy is performed and ratings are posted in papers. And if the display was truly well received, reviews are done on the evening news. Based on the attendance and skill in the staging, the funds are then placed in the account of the registered killer.

Though only Princess Luna ever knew exactly who was registered to which registered calling card.”

“Oh, kind of like an art exhibition in a museum.”

“From what you’ve told me, yeah kind of.”

Chrysalis propped herself up on one hoof.

“So what makes a pony decide to kill others as a life’s work?”

Pinkemena took a deep breath, before exhaling slowly, as though thinking of how to answer.

“There’s something you need to understand about Exuus. In this world, the crimes and villainy your kind scorned, were just jobs for us. Killing, stealing, even adultery. All of it was merely the daily bread for those who were deemed members of society. Those who had vices were considered active inhabitants; they were paid, had houses, groceries, and even utilities. But for those who didn’t, only one place in society awaited them; slaves.

Working purely for that night’s dinner. Fail your quota, go hungry. Have an illness? The owner of the property puts you down. Injured? If you are lucky you may be granted one day of rest, with a double quota the next.

I should know. You see, each and every Element aside from Starlight and Rarity started out as a slave to Princess Luna.

Starlight gave us a chance, the chance none other did. I remember when I first met your mother. I was in the kitchen using my knife to slice a rock, having failed to meet my quota on the family rock farm earlier that day, for the fifth day in a row….”

***

34 years ago

Thunder crashed as the lightning flashed down in the torrential downpour outside, and yet it was nowhere near as fierce as the rage in Pinkie’s heart.

*chop*

It wasn’t fair!

*chop*

I was just one rock short.

*chop*

One…

*chop*

Blasted…

*Chop*

“Rock!”

Lightning struck the massive boulder at the edge of the farm as Pinkie screamed out the word; startling those behind her. Her mother, father, and three sisters sat silently; eating the single boiled potato and steamed carrot on each of their plates.

The mood was heavy in the Pie household. For the last five days, Pinkemena had failed to meet her quota and now she was starving. Cloudy Quartz desperately wished she could share her meal, even give it entirely to Pinkemena, but to no avail.

The enchantment upon slaves was as clear as crystal; those that contribute, get. It wasn’t even possible for them to offer another their food, their clothes, their beds. Not that they didn’t want to, or didn’t have enough to share; the enchantment literally prevented the act of helping others. Sharing was simply impossible and so Cloudy was forced to watch helplessly as her daughter wallowed in the agony of slow starvation.

Silently she prayed to a power she wasn’t even sure she believed in anymore. Wasn’t there anything that could be done? Anything at all, to save her daughter?

*Rap-Rap-Rap*

The sound of a hoof banging on the front door, caused Cloudy to look at her husband in confusion; who could possibly be knocking on their door so late at night and in such a rainstorm?

Eyeing her husband, the Maretriarch of the household and her partner slowly rose and exited the room. A minute later, the two returned with stricken looks on their faces, followed by three ponies.

One was an Earthpony mare, with orange fur and a braided mane, dressed as a maid in silken garters on her hindlegs. Around her neck was a golden amulet with a jewel-shaped like an apple. A single tag was attached to the amulet and shimmered in the light, revealing the engraved letters: “AJ”.

Standing beside her, was a Unicorn mare, with an amethyst mane and alabaster white fur. Like the Earthpony she was dressed in a servant’s garb, clearly designed to be evocative; a black silken hose, and a red leather corset. In her mane was a red rose clip and around her neck was a golden amulet; similar to the Earthpony’s but this one held a purple diamond-shaped gem inlay. Attached to the amulet was a metal tag on which the word “Rarity” could be seen glinting in the candlelight of the dimly lit kitchen table.

Both were sopping wet, from the pouring rain; their outfits dripping steadily onto the wooden floor beneath them. They shivered silently, and the looks on their faces clearly expressed their discomfort, but neither said a thing; both staying perfectly still and keeping their eyes firmly on the third visitor.

She wore no outfit, and yet from her demeanor; her walk, and her stance, there was no doubt she was the one in charge. Unlike the other two, she was perfectly dry without a hair out of place. She was a Unicorn, with lilac-colored fur. Her mane was a rich violet with a single seafoam green stripe, and her eyes twinkled with a strange light. And those eyes were focused squarely on Pinkemena Diane Pie. In a somewhat silky tone, she addressed the distraught Earthpony.

*Chop*

“So you’re the one who failed her quota again, huh?”

Without warning, Pinkemena whirled around, knife in hoof, slashing at the Unicorn. A gasp of fear came from those behind the mare, but it soon became apparent for very different reasons.

At the table, her sisters, mother, and father, all gasped in horror at Pinkemena’s reaction and sudden aggressive behavior. They were worried about what she had done to the Unicorn. The two that came in with the mare, however, looked mortified, not out of concern for their mare companion, but for the safety of Pinkemena; having been in that position already. The lilac-hued mare chuckled as a steady stream of crimson spilled from her cheek. Reaching up a hoof, she brushed it across her cheek, feeling the noticeable warmth of blood.

“The first one is free. However-”

Her eyes narrowed darkly, as she glanced at her blood-soaked hoof, speaking cheerfully to Pinkemena.

“If you are smart, my little pony, you won’t try that again.”

Glaring at the mare uncertainly for a moment, Pinkemena glanced at the two behind her; both desperately pantomiming to drop the knife. During this moment, the mare introduced herself.

“My name is Starlight Glimmer and I am the new owner of-”

Instantly, as her anger rose, Pinkemena lashed out once more; swinging her blade at the mare. Before she could connect, however, a lilac-furred foreleg caught hers and Pinkemena screamed in agony.

Lacerations of all shapes and sizes, crisscrossed Pinkemena’s body as the Unicorn sighed in disappointment at the Earthpony.

“I warned you.”

Pinkemena heard none of it, as the pain became too much to bear and she blacked out; collapsing in a heap on the floor.

Looking distressed, Starlight turned to AJ and Rarity.

“Why does everypony insist on attacking me, girls?”

The two just sheepishly looked at her, without answering. Starlight sighed and lifted up her other hoof, gently tickling Rarity’s chin and then AJ’s; whispering silkily to both.

“Well, you both learned your lesson, didn’t you? I suppose she will have to learn hers as well, won’t she?”

Pointing the hoof at the table, Starlight instructed the pair.

“Take a seat while we wait.”

While the two obediently found some empty chairs to sit in, Starlight seemed to notice Pinkamena’s family staring at her. Smiling at them, she gestured to herself with her hoof.

“Hello there, allow me to introduce myself. As I was telling your sister, my name is Starlight Glimmer. And I-”

“What did you do to my little sister?”

Cloudy shouted sharply at her daughter.

“Maud!”

Pausing to stare at the interrupter for a moment. The gray-furred Earthpony looked calm and placid, but her voice contained the worry for Pinkemena; causing Starlight to smile lightly.

“I promise you, Pinkemena will be just fine. She will feel a world of hurt once she wakes up, but you have my word, she won’t die.”

Maud seemed to be completely stunned by the answer. Starlight continued.

“Before anyponyelse panics; allow me to explain what happened. Much like these two-”

Starlight gestured at the now furiously blushing AJ and Rarity; clearly embarrassed.

“Pinkemena decided to attack me, rather than talk to me. In doing so, she ended up attacking herself. So sadly, she will be forced to face the consequences of those actions; she will feel intense pain, but you can rest assured, I’ll heal her once she realizes the futility of her actions.”

As an unsettling silence descended on the table, Starlight clapped her hooves just as a bolt of lightning caused a spray of farmland to erupt outside the window. A blinding light filled the room and as it faded, a rather menacing glow was visible in Starlight’s eyes for a moment. She spoke cheerily and at the same time, a dark undertone belay her words.

“Now then let’s discuss business. I am Starlight Glimmer and I am the daughter of Princess Luna-”

At that moment an unholy roar of thunder sounded throughout the air, punctuating the introduction.

“And the new owner of this property, and likewise, your family.”

Looking around the table at the Pie Family, Starlight’s smile faded to a frown. It wasn’t anything they did, but glancing at the plates they had been eating from, had infuriated her.

“What is that?”

Pointing at the single scrawny carrot on Cloudy Quartz’s plate, Starlight’s disdain was written across her face.

“Our dinner, your highness. Isn’t it great?”

The sass-filled, grating tone of the speaker caused everypony present to tense up and look towards Starlight, who just smiled at the speaker.

Cloudy Quartz sounded desperate as she called out her daughter’s mannerisms.

“Limestone! Don’t talk like that, I raised you better!”

Starlight, however, just chuckled and held up her hoof.

“It’s alright, I’ll handle this. I’ve dealt with many naughty little fillies like her.”

Snarling, Limestone growled at her.

“Who are you calling a filly?”

Starlight’s voice took on a silky, sultry tone as she responded, causing both AJ and Rarity to stiffen upon hearing it; having clearly been on the receiving end of it before.

“You, little one.”

“I’m not a filly, I’m a mare!”

“No, you aren’t.”

“Yes, I am!”

Starlight sauntered over to her and in an almost mesmerizing motion, used her hoof to gingerly brush Limestone’s mane. Her voice was slightly fiercer as she replied.

“No. You aren’t. Because you see, little filly-”

Limestone seemed to be frozen in place at the touch of Starlight, as she slowly brushed the light gray mane; over and over, gently sliding her hoof along Limestone’s neck as she spoke sweetly.

“A mare wouldn’t possibly speak in such a disrespectful tone to me. She would be well aware of just how much power I wield, and how dangerous mouthing off to me can be. At least one taught proper manners by her mother and father, isn’t that right, little filly?”

“I-”

Gently clicking her tongue, Starlight spoke admonishingly, cutting off any of Limestone’s attempts at retorting.

“Uh, uh, uh. A filly should mind her tongue while the big mares are talking. It really is such a shame, you see, my mother told me I would find five mares and one stallion in this house. So far, however, I’ve only seen three mares-”

Gesturing slowly to Cloudy Quartz, Maud, and then the one next to her, Starlight smiled.

“Three mares, who are very well-mannered, and then there are two very disrespectful fillies-”

Gesturing to Pinkie; still unconscious on the floor, and then pointing at Limestone, Starlight just shook her head as if in disbelief.

“And it really is a shame. I had such plans for this farm, for the five mares and one stallion I expected to find and my mother is rarely ever wrong, but no need to worry. I am very flexible-”

Starlight’s words became dangerously silky once more.

“Quite flexible-”

Rarity and AJ flinched at these words.

“I shall alter my designs to include this new development. For instance, this pitiful display you call dinner-”

Starlight’s horn glowed with light blue magic, and as all present watched in surprise, every plate became three and consisted of a full course meal fit for a Princess.

A large summer salad, with crisp greenery, ripe plump cherry tomatoes, and some dandelion greens. A toasted haybacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich on whole wheat. And a single slice of black forest cake. The Pie Family was in tears at the sight, never before had such a luxurious spread been blessed upon them.

Starlight smiled at the reaction and continued her words her tone disarmingly gentle.

“I had plans for my new property to be properly well-fed; one meal maybe, but a meal to be remembered, once per workday. Because I take care of my possessions-”

At the word ‘possessions’, Rarity swiftly began fussing with AJ’s mane, much to AJ’s annoyance. Though AJ didn’t resist, the look on her face expressed her desire to be anywhere else at that moment.

Making sure to stare into Limestone’s eyes, Starlight once more resumed her silky tone.

“Because that is what you, everypony on this property and this very land are, my little filly. My property. Don’t worry though, I know a little, immature filly like you couldn’t possibly eat such a mare-sized portion, and I do not like wasting food, so let me fix that for you, little one.”

In a flash of light blue, the meal at Limestone’s setting became nothing more than half a hay bacon on wheat sandwich, with a juice box of apple juice and a bendy straw. Starlight spoke to the stunned Limestone as the weight of the consequences of her actions began to dawn on her.

“There, a meal fit for a filly. Oh, and I almost forgot how important it is for a filly to have a reasonable bedtime. Now sadly, I and the big ponies have much more to discuss, but fillies like you should be in bed by 8 o’clock every night; starting now.”

Limestone’s fierce facade completely broke, and she began whimpering.

“B-but that’s in five minutes!”

Starlight nodded, feigning surprise.

“Oh, so it is. Well, then you had best say your goodnights.”

“I-”

“Though you know, little one, it isn’t like my mother to get her figures wrong. But everypony makes mistakes from time to time, perhaps I am making one right now. Maybe you aren’t a filly after all; I mean you look like a mare to me, but that attitude is so childish. Surely, you can’t be a mare, but maybe I’m wrong-”

Learning in and whispering gently in Limestone’s ear, Starlight continued.

“If only there were two little words you could say to me, to convince me that you really were a mature mare and not some disrespectful filly in need of punishment.”

Breaking into tears, Limestone desperately shouted out, throwing herself to the floor and covering her muzzle with her hooves.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry! Please forgive my rudeness, Mistress Starlight! I’m so sorry!”

Aj and Rarity shared a look; both knew exactly how in control Starlight could be. When she wanted something, the Element of Domination made it happen; not through sheer force, but by making the other want to obey her.

AJ hated the feeling of her silken outfit against her fur, she hated the unnecessary frills and what she considered girly lace. She hated everything about the outfit she wore, and yet she felt no desire to remove it. Not that she couldn’t, but because Starlight had told her she would be happier with her wearing it, she felt that it was worth her discomfort. Likewise, Rarity felt utterly humiliated; being seen in such a risque ensemble and yet, she too had no desire to remove it.

Both had been given the simple command of ‘wear it for me’ and neither felt like removing their respective outfits because it was what Starlight wanted, and they both wanted Starlight to be happy. And just like with AJ and Rarity, Limestone’s will was completely crumbling before Starlight’s own iron wall of desires.

Looking down at the broken Limestone, Starlight shook her head and used her forehoof to lift Limestone’s tear-stained chin, to stare into her eyes.

“Enough of that now, Limestone. No more tears, like I said, we all make mistakes. I forgive you, now make me proud and show me that wonderful mare which I know you are.”

It was like time stopped as all watching were as silent as an unmarked grave. At first, Limestone had been a sniveling, broken mess, but as she stared in Starlight’s strangely encouraging eyes, an unholy calm seemed to descend on the normally irate mare. Slowly she wiped a hoof across her eyes, and the stream of tears dwindled to a trickle, before stopping entirely.

You could have heard a pin drop as Limestone rose to her hooves; her fierce demeanor wiped away, and a warm smile on her face as she stared at Starlight. Limestone seemed completely different.

“Yes, Starlight.”

Smiling sweetly, Starlight nodded in approval.

“There’s a good mare. Take your spot at the table with your sisters.”
As Starlight watched Limestone sit next to her two sisters once more, a low voice spoke up behind Starlight.

“I want to apologize as well.”

Everypony in the small room turned to find Pinkemena sitting upright; the deep gashes in her body, making a horrific sight, and yet she didn’t scream. She gave no indication of any pain as she sat quietly amidst the stares, a smile on her lips as she stared at the knife in her hoof.

Starlight watched in amazement as Pinkemena’s knife vanished without a trace and slowly rose to her hooves, though how with such wounds, was unclear. Still, Pinkemena spoke softly and in an almost placid way.

“I am sorry for attempting to kill you, I was feeling quite stressed and I needed to expend my energy. When you approached me from behind and started mocking me, I believed you to be a fool to be slaughtered.”

“Pinkie.”

Pinkemena flinched. Without any inflection of emotion in her voice and no expression on her face, Maud spoke to her younger sister. Pinkemena protested.

“There’s no need to be so cross, Maud. I promise it isn’t what you think.”

Maud didn’t move a muscle; not a single eye flicker, nothing. She sat there, expressionlessly staring at Pinkemena. The latter seemed desperate to defend herself, regardless.

“Maud I swear, I’m not being disrespectful! Let me finish.”

Still giving no indication to anypony present what she was thinking, Maud laid her head down onto her hooves after a moment of staring at the youngest Pie sister. This seemed to relieve Pinkemena who paused to exhale; having been holding her breath.

Starlight seemed surprised and somewhat amused at this exchange; though she hadn’t been able to discern what even just happened, she sat there quietly waiting to see what would occur next.

Straightening up, Pinkemena spoke calmly, in a low tone.

“I can see though, that there is more to you than meets the eye, your majesty; or perhaps future majesty-”

Pinkemena paused to bow her head in a clear act of submission. Much to Starlight’s delight, Pinkemena’s tone was nothing but respectful, and she silently allowed the Earthpony to finish her statement.

“Your vice is evident. A selfish, tyrannical ruling princess-to-be; you know what you want, and you will seize it for your own. But I can see your real self. You didn’t come here to taunt us, or tower over us, did you? You don’t see us as slaves at all, do you? You see us as pets, to be cared for and treated with love. You try to hide it, but you have a heart. You really care, don’t you?”

Starlight stared at her for a moment, in surprised silence before chuckling.

“Am I so transparent?”

Shaking her head, Pinkemena laughed.

“Only to me.”

Shaking her head in amazement, Starlight smiled.

“And how long have you been watching us?”

“Ever since Limestone insulted you.”

Nodding thoughtfully. Starlight narrowed her eyes coldly in a fierce glare and spoke to those present.

“It’s true. I am my mother’s daughter, and I was raised to be callous and cruel to those beneath me; as was my mother before me.”

Starlight’s eyes softened, and her words carried a tone of warmth.

But I can’t. I can’t just be cruel because I am, like mom. No, something in me keeps telling me that my cruel and vicious nature can be used to help my victims better themselves. Slaves can never be more than what their owner desires, and that’s just it. I desire more for my slaves; I want to see you learn, grow and become more than you are. I may be my mother’s daughter, but I see no reason why my slaves can’t smile as well.”

***

“Starlight gave us everything. The rest of society cast us away, but she saw something more-”

Silence fell, as Pinkemena paused as though suddenly lost in thought. What is she staring at? Following her gaze, Chrysalis saw something she hadn’t before; there on the wall, directly in the middle of the division between Pinkie and Mena’s areas, hung the remains of something, glinting with a golden sheen.

Rising curiously from beside her, Chrysalis walked over to the spot to reveal a rather peculiar sight. The remains of a golden amulet hung, the socket that had apparently once held a balloon-shaped crystal, twisted and mangled; as though melted in extreme heat. A dog tag welded to the side on the mostly intact loop had just one word carved in it: Mena.

Though the amulet was strange enough, underneath it, Chrysalis noticed an odd picture; Pinkamena stood next to Starlight and both were smiling. Maybe it was how close she and Pikamena had gotten, but Chrysalis was certain the smile was genuine. And around Pinkamena’s neck was the same golden amulet with a sapphire blue balloon-shaped crystal twinkling and sparkling in the silvery moonlight as the rain came down in sheets.

Turning back to her lover, now staring at her, Chrysalis asked.

“Hey, Mena? What is all this?”

A faraway look appeared in Pinkamena’s eyes as a small almost saddened smile crossed her muzzle. Her voice was unusually caring for a moment as she replied.

“A lifetime of memories ago, Chrysi. A lifetime of memories ago.”

***

I need to breathe…

The hot steam within the shower carried the aroma of times since past; the smell of cedar chips, cider, and incense.

Rarity really captured that bar in a bottle, didn’t she? Intoxicating, exhilarating, and dangerous. I can almost feel that barstool against my flank, I can almost hear them laughing, I can almost see them once more.

It had been three years since she had arrived in this world, three years since they were taken from her, three years since she felt their caress. And now, in her little charging apartment, Rainbow longed for them again. Only through Rarity’s homemade perfumes could she revisit that part of her life; could she see them again. Dash smiled. She was almost there.

Just need to breathe.

Chapter 20: Dashie: Cancelled Beta

***3 days before Twilight was repaired***

Dash walked towards the recharge tent, her battery blinking on critical she should have been recharging half an hour ago. She knew Rarity was going to ream her for being late for a recharge cycle, Applejack likewise would lecture her senseless, and Dash couldn’t be happier. She wanted them to yell at her, she wanted them to hurt her, but they already knew that. It’s the only way to atone for what I’ve done.

Taking her position between the two, Rainbow connected her charging cable and powered down; the mechanical body she possessed going limp; a smile on her muzzle.

***

Dash looked around her as she materialized; the sight of a luxuriously plush queen-sized banister bed causing her to grimace. Its bedspread was as smooth as a foal’s flank, while the sheets were of hoofwoven Saddle Arabian silk threading. The frame of the bed consisted of forged gold and various gemstones.

It wasn’t just the bed either. The dresser, the bookshelves, even the strange exotic vases, paintings, and plants. All of it was extravagant and almost regal in nature. Dash sighed as she caught sight of her reflection. I never should have told them about my past.

She was wearing a crown cast of platinum with a lightning bolt-shaped ruby embedded within the crest. Did they really have to dress me in this manner? She looked at the ensemble she now wore. Rarity is too good at recreating outfits. It was a gown, crimson red woven of a gossamer made from the moon’s light and embedded with a strange silvery variety of stone. This is eerie, she really recreated my formal attire. Even the Illumis? Those crystals were rare, even in my world

Staring at the stone, she thought momentarily of how it looked exactly like the one her mom gave her on the day of her coronation. Her ascension to Princess of Loyalty, and Ruler of Equestria had been a momentous occasion for the daughter of Queen Celeste.

Her eyes cleared and once more she gazed upon her reflection, and her eyes narrowed in rage. No! This isn’t me. I’m no ruler, not anymore. This isn’t me-

“This isn’t me!”

*Crash*

With ferocity, as the desperate scream tore itself from Dash’s throat, she smashed her forehoof into the glass mirror; shattering it instantly. Furiously she attempted to grab the fabric in her teeth, to rip off the ensemble; the pain on her face culminating in the tears streaming down. Over and over she tried, but nothing happened. This isn’t me! I have to get this off! This isn’t me anymore. Why won’t this come off? This isn’t me. Please come off! This isn’t me!

Throwing herself to the cloud flooring, Dash sobbed uncontrollably and wrapped her wings over her eyes; having given up the futile efforts to take off the royal couture. That’s when she heard the voice of another.

“I heard you crying. Is something the matter, Princess Dashina?”

Dash suddenly stopped crying; the use of her real name startling her. The words were cold and uncaring, but Dash recognized the speaker immediately.

“Mistress Rarity?”

“Don’t call me that. You’ve made it clear to me, you have no desire to belong to me. And so, after a discussion with AJ, I’ve decided to let you be free.”

“No! Th-”

“After all, why would a pet, who wished to be bound to my will, so willingly and continuously defy the curfews and restrictions that I instilled upon them?”

“Please I need you!”

A moment of silence followed while Dash shivered in apparent fear. Then Rarity’s voice could be heard once more; her voice conveying no mercy.

“What is this? The 9th…10th time in a row you’ve blatantly disregarded our desires? Not just mine but AJ’s as well? You are very strong-willed about invoking punishment from us. The thing is, we have no interest in tethering and binding the will of an unwilling submissive. Have you forgotten it was you who begged us to ground you beneath our hooves? That you wanted us to control every facet of your life? We did this for you.”

“Mistr-”

“Take some time and consider what you really want, Princess. We have given you back your freedoms; your possessions have been returned to you. I have no interest in a submissive that fights against my control. Enjoy your freedom.”

“No, wait!”

Only silence greeted the distraught Pegasus. Sitting down on her haunches, Dash began to sob once more, laying herself down and curling into a ball; shivering and whimpering pitifully.

“Please…Don’t leave me. I can’t lose you...Not…again.”

***

As her hoof left the intercom button, Rarity muttered angrily.

“Stupid…Pegasus.”

Turning away, however, her face portrayed her true feelings; Her mascara was running down in streaks. Her normally sparkling sapphire eyes were downcast, puffy, watery, and trickling with the anguish in her heart.

Slowly trudging over to the kitchen bar, she pulled herself onto a barstool, before letting out a scream and throwing her head down onto her hooves; sobbing.

“That stupid Pegasus! After all I’ve done for her!”

From behind the bar, a gentle voice spoke up.

“Rar.”

“Shut up, Applejack.”

“Come on, Sugarcube. Don’t you think you were being a bit too hard on her?”

“I won’t go through it again, AJ.”

Coming out from the kitchen door, Applejack gently patted her partner on the back.

“You know she isn’t-”

Raising her head, Rarity roared in Applejack’s face.

“I won’t let her die like I did Dashie!”

Applejack didn’t flinch at the outburst, instead, she leaned down and hugged Rarity whispering to her softly.

“She isn’t Dashie though, Rar. Tell you what, I’ll go down and talk to her, why don’t you clear your mind by going and checking on the fillies. Their antics always amuse you.”

Staring momentarily hopefully into AJ’s eyes, Rarity snarled abruptly.

“Ugh, do whatever you wish.”

Applejack just smiled and kissed her on the muzzle.

“It’s alright, Rar. You’ll see. Dash does care about you, as much as we do for her.”

***

For several minutes, the emancipated Dashina curled into a ball and cried; utterly shattered. This wasn’t happening! Not again…Please! I can’t fail…again. Please don’t leave me. Then came the motorized sound of elevator doors opening.

*Ding, wrrr*

Lifting her wing off her face, Dashina looked hopefully towards the sound. A long elevator connected her room to Rarity’s; a backdoor that had been programmed by Scootaloo at Rarity and AJ’s behest. Eagerly, Dashina rose up and flew towards the elevator; desperately praying for the chance to apologize. As the doors slid open, she watched as Applejack stepped out. Instantly, the distraught Pegasus broke into sobbing, desperate, and almost incoherent pleas.

“I’msosorrypleasedon’t-”

Dashina fell silent as Applejack’s forehoof lightly pressed against her muzzle. The Earthpony smiled warmly at her and spoke softly, as she grabbed the ex-Princess in a soothing hug.

“Easy there, Dash. Calm down, girl. I’m here for you, I got you.”

Though Rarity had been the sole owner of Dashina; Applejack had been nothing but supportive of the Pegasus’s desires and had been active in her training. In truth, Dashina had become a much-beloved pet for the married mares. Hearing the name Rarity had given her had an instant effect on Dashina. Her frantic sobbing quieted down, though she still cried silent tears, slowly melting into the warmth of the embrace.

Applejack gently ran her hoof through Dashina’s naturally rainbow-hued mane, whispering soothingly; almost as one would a lost puppy.

“It’s alright girl, you aren’t going anywhere, you still belong to her, I promise.”

Whimpering, Dash looked up into Applejack’s inviting gaze.

“B-but she said-”

Gently booping her on the snout, Applejack chuckled.

“If my Rar got rid of everything that upset her, she would have chucked my lazy flank out the door decades ago, and probably every night since then, as well. Don’t worry, she still holds your leash, Dash.”

“R-really?”

“Yeah, Sugarcube. Rar just needs some time to herself, you aren’t the only one who is being haunted by ghosts in her past-”

*Bang!*

A loud explosion came from the elevator shaft followed by Rarity’s muffled screams of rage.

“Sweetie Belle!”

Applejack sighed.

“Rar’s just a little spooked at the moment. Why don’t you and I sit and talk down here for a while?”

Walking over to the bed, Applejack gave a shrill whistle.

“Here girl! C’mon Dash, come to AJ!”

Instantly, Dash raced over and leaped onto the bed, before rustling her wings and settling in beside Applejack, who gently ran her hoof down Dash’s back.

“Good girl.”

*BOOM!*

More angry shouting echoed down the elevator shaft.

“Scootaloo, I swear I’ll skin you alive if you don’t drop that vial! No, not literally!”

*Bang!*

“Arrrrrgh! My floor! Applebloooooom!”

Applejack flinched and gave a shaky nod.

“Yeah, let’s stay down here a while.”

For several minutes, Applejack gently stroked Dash’s fur with her hoof. Dash, having calmed down considerably, had rolled onto her side, exposing her chest fluff for AJ to pet, and happily rested with her head on AJ’s lap.

Both listened to the sounds coming from the elevator shaft. Terrified screams, Rarity’s raging screams turning into a burst of distorted unholy laughter, and the frantic pleas for mercy from Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom filled the air.

Several more explosions were then heard, as Dash spoke to AJ.

“Applejack?”

“Yeah, Dash?”

A thunderous sound, like that of a high yield explosive going off, caused the roof above the bed to shake violently, and Dash sat bolt upright. While AJ glanced nervously towards the ceiling, she wrapped a hoof around Dash, to calm the Pegasus. A wicked cackle was then heard as a distorted voice shouted.

“I’ll spare your lives this time, little sister-”

The distortion faded and Rarity’s regular voice could be heard as she shouted.

“Next time, I won’t be so generous, now clean up this mess and don’t make another peep; any of you!”

Looking at Applejack, Dash whispered.

“Mistress is scary.”

Nodding AJ just laughed.

“Yeah, she can become a real nightmare when she gets angry.”

“But, why was she so mad at me?”

“She wasn’t mad at you, Dash. She was mad at her.”

“Her?”

“Dashie.”

“I’ve heard that name before, but who exactly was Dashie?”

Applejack reached up and removed the stetson on her head, her golden locks spilling forth and swaying in the air as she shook her mane. Staring at the rust-colored stain on the stetson, AJ seemed deep in thought. Taking a deep breath, she let out a sigh.

“After 20 years of asking that very question, I still don’t know how to answer that. In a crowded room, she was alone. She saw nopony or no object unless she could use it. As ruthless as they come, Dashie was the Element of Narcissism, and was the epitome of ‘me, myself, and I’. And yet, somehow, ended up sacrificing herself to protect another.”

Laying down on her back, AJ stared wistfully at the ceiling, as the waves of the past washed over her.

“You see, Dash, Rarity, and Dashie all started nearly 20 years ago. Starlight had discovered that unlocking the inverses of our Elements could grant us an unfathomable power. One by one we found that which dwelled in us; that is, everypony but Dashie. And so Starlight and Twilight called a meeting to discuss how to push her over that hurdle, especially since she never acknowledged us. Coincidentally, Rarity had just been granted the ascension to Nightmare Plaguespreader. It was a very different world, Dash…Then again, so were we.”

***

20 years ago

“So why did the Princesses summon us?”

Sitting in a chair at a stone table, sat a Unicorn that was as twice as tall as a normal one. Her fur was a deep purple, and her eyes shone like diamonds in the light; pale blue with vertical pupils. Her mane and tail boasted an almost ethereal glow, consisting of white, and purple streaks; sparkling with dozens of star-like glimmers. Shifting in her seat revealed her cutie mark; three diamonds surrounded by strange shimmering stars. Her eyes were creased in fierce scorn, and in front of her lay what looked like a foreleg carved almost perfectly in pure diamond, down to the fibers of the bones.

Next to her, Applejack sat, on her head sat a stetson that was frayed, tattered, and had a very obvious slash in it which was surrounded by a noticeable rust-colored stain. Her bright emerald eyes narrowed in annoyance as she stared across at Pinkemena and Fluttershy. Slowly she tapped her bronze horseshoe-ladened hoof on the table as she watched them.

Pinkie’s normally light pink forehooves had been dripping with fresh red crimson, as she playfully tossed her favorite knife from hoof to hoof; the blade a dark crimson red. This apparently had gotten on Fluttershy’s nerves, causing her to snag the blade out of the air, almost too swiftly to be seen, and was now pointing it between Pinkie’s eyes; her own buttery yellow face now splotched with the same wet, dripping crimson as the blade she was currently threatening Pinkie with.

Throwing up her hooves in surprise, an embarrassed expression crossed her face, as she frantically gestured a placating apology to the irate Pegasus. Fluttershy snorted in response and flipped the knife around, passing it back to its owner.

As soon as the handle touched her hoof, however, Pinkie gave Fluttershy a cheeky wink, before an unsettling smile graced her face. Fluttershy’s eye twitched as the knife vanished from sight, meanwhile, Pinkemena just smiled cheerfully; though it seemed a bit off, and gave off a sense of wicked intent causing Fluttershy to shiver involuntarily. Rolling her eyes, Fluttershy just smiled as Pinkie broke into a fit of giggles.

Applejack sighed and stopped tapping her hoof, turning away from the other two before replying to her partner.

“I don’t know, Rar. Let’s ask Starlight when she gets here.”

“Ask her what, Sugarcube?”

Around the table, all four froze as the sugary sweet voice came from the doorway, in which stood Starlight Glimmer; the Heir to the Throne. Without giving them a chance to answer, she admonished them in a rapid-fire manner.

“Mena, your slashes were sloppily done, you’ll be practicing killing blows after this. Dispose of the body. Now. You have ten seconds. Rarity, no work at the table. I want my little Darling in that seat in five seconds. Sugarcube, remove those horseshoes, no brawling at the table and Flutters, no, you may not kill Mena for ruining your coat. Now hold still while I clean that blood off your fur.”

The words were spoken, swift and calmly, almost as though Starlight was used to such antics from the four. As Fluttershy sputtered and protested, Starlight used a magical cloth to scrub the blood splatters off her muzzle, calling out to Pinkemena as she did so.

“Mena, sweetie, just because you can kill my mother’s soldiers, doesn’t mean you should. Furthermore, as your owner, anything you do reflects on me. So when you do kill my mother’s guards as you have many times before now, make sure your cuts are clean, no frayed muscle, and no splintered bones from now on. Okay?”

A grunting sound was heard from the hallway as Pinkie, apparently attempting to drag a heavy object, responded.

“Yes, Starligh- Ow!”

Twilight was then heard barking at her.

“You will show her respect, or I’ll flay you to doll rags. Got it?”

Stammering, Pinkie winced.

“I-I meant, Y-yes Princess.”

“That’s better. Now get in there.”

Moments later, Pinkemena came sailing in through the open doorway to land in her chair, the magic surrounding her dissipating as Twilight calmly walked back into view. Standing in the doorway as all eyes turned towards her, the ever-hateful mare surveying them with her eyes of shining ruby irises.

“All you, shut up and pay attention. My Starlight has something to say.”

Having finished cleaning Fluttershy’s face, Starlight stood up and walked over to stand beside Twilight. Glancing to the side, Starlight addressed her wife.

“Don’t you think you are being too rough on my little ones?”

Huffing in annoyance, Twilight’s eyes surveyed the four at the table, making sure to look each one in the eyes as she spoke.

“Each one of them is an accomplished killer; were we to give the command each is more than capable of eliminating the entire kingdom’s population, alone. They are not fillies learning to use a knife-”

Taking note of the saddened expression on Fluttershy’s face, Twilight’s eyes softened for just a second as she added.

“Nor are they baby cubs needing mama’s milk anymore-”

Seeing that Fluttershy smiled happily at this, Twilight flashed the merest hint of a smile, herself, before continuing.

“I won’t belittle their accomplishments. Only by sparing none of my wrath, will they know how I feel. I refuse to mollycoddle them. And I refuse to let them get away with anything less than perfection. Anything they do, reflects on us, even away from public eyes. When they do well, we will reward them. When they mess up, they will feel it. Isn’t that right, you worthless mares?”

Around the table, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack gave murmurs of agreement, as Rarity’s tail flicked side to side in excitement at being degraded; the ring at the base of her tail glinting in the candlelight. Fluttershy, however, sat there, blankly staring at Twilight, that is until Twilight calmly walked over and leaned down to stare her in the eyes, whispering to her in a tone all could hear; an almost gentle tone.

“And you, my little cub, what have I told you about threatening others?”

Muttering, Fluttershy averted her eyes, but Twilight was having none of it. Though her tone was gentle, her words carried an air of absolute control.

“Look at me, Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy’s eyes slowly moved to focus solely on Twilight, she whimpered, but Twilight continued, her tone never changing.

“Do you want to upset Mama Bear?”

The words had an instantaneous effect, as Shy, the cruelest of the Elements, seemed to regress back to a filly’s mindset. She cried out in dismay.

“No mama!”

Twilight nodded, as though nothing had happened and gave a small knowing smile.

“Then answer me properly, my little cub. What did I tell you about threatening others?”

“Not to do it, unless I have the resolve to carry out my threat.”

“And were you prepared to kill Mena?”

“No mama.”

Twilight nodded and gently ran her hoof on the underside of Fluttershy’s muzzle.

“Exactly. Remember, we don’t threaten others’ lives; we make promises to end their existence. Don’t do it again. Understood, little cub of mine?”

Fluttershy nodded eagerly.

“Yes, mama.”

As Twilight stood up and walked back to Starlight’s side, Starlight chuckled.

“You were saying, ‘Mama Bear’?”

Twilight snorted back in retort.

“You shush, you’re young enough to be an actual foal-”

Stopping mid-sentence, Twilight turned to see a stricken look of actual terror on Starlight’s face. Tears began streaming down Starlight’s face, as Twilight desperately started consoling her; the fierce demeanor having vanished instantly, instead, she looked genuinely concerned for her partner.

“Shh. Shh. Sweetie, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bring up what your mother did. Starlight sweetie, don’t worry, she won’t hurt you. You’re safe.”

Twilight’s eyes grew wide as she noticed that Starlight’s horn had begun to glow brightly. The look in her eyes caused Twilight to immediately leap between her and the four at the table casting a spell of her own as she yelled out to the startled mares behind her as she faced the enraged face of her wife; the latter of which for some reason didn’t seem to recognize her.

“Get under the table! Now!”

Throwing up a spell shield, Twilight dug in her hooves just as a searing blast of raging heat slammed into it with tremendous force. Again and again in increased velocity, various spells slammed into the magical forcefield; lightning, ice, fire, unholy, and even holy; the five mother elements from which all magic stems. Twilight gritted her teeth and fought off her own urges to strike back; this was not her Starlight, no, this was the real Starlight.

The scared foal that had been forced by Luna to age into marehood through a forbidden and sadistically painful unholy magic; all because Luna could not stand the thought of caring for an adopted foal. Though also granted by the Princess with an artificially obtained knowledge of all magic, Starlight was by far the youngest of all five present; a mere filly amidst mares.

Thrown back into that agony, the now seven-year-old mare showed just as much maturity as she lashed out in fear and anger at the one she called mother; the moments of that unbearable and excruciating agony of her bones growing, her skin tearing from being unable to keep up, her organs twisting and changing, ringing in Starlight’s mind.

And Twilight knew this; refusing to counter the blows. She stood there gritting her teeth as the magical tantrum started causing chips and cracks in her shield. In seconds it would shatter, and kill all present; Twilight noticed a momentarily lull in the onslaught as Starlight panted in exhaustion, and at that moment Twilight dropped the spell shield and rushed forward; enveloping Starlight in a loving embrace.

“I’m here, she can’t hurt you. I promise.”

Her words fell on deaf ears as Starlight began hitting her with her forehooves. Screaming into her face with utter hatred.

“I’ll kill you, I’ll kill you! I’ll -mmmph!”

As she screamed and raged, as the blows struck Twilight with enough force to shatter concrete, Twilight placed her lips on Starlight’s own, interrupting her tirade. Rather than fight it, Starlight instantly melted into the warm embrace, but Twilight knew that it wasn’t because of her kiss. No, it was because of Starlight’s mother’s own perverted predatory nature. Another unspeakable crime that Luna had afflicted and conditioned her daughter with time and again as Starlight screamed pleas to gods that never answered.

As the bloodlust dissipated from Starlight’s eyes, Twilight held her tightly, refusing to let go. Closing her eyes, she renewed the vow in her mind; the one she had told Princess Luna to her face the night she and Starlight were wed:

I’ll kill you, Luna, for what you did to her.

“Twilight, what’s going on? Why are you bleeding?”

Opening her eyes, Twilight found herself staring into the normally, empty, placid violet eyes Starlight possessed; there was no sign of tears, no sign of any emotion other than concern for Twilight’s now bleeding muzzle. Wiping her hoof across her dripping muzzle, Twilight just shook her head.

“It doesn’t matter. The time has come to put the final piece in place.”

She watched Starlight turn to address the four mares that unbeknownst to Starlight, Twilight had sent an all-clear signal behind her back; causing them to come out from under the table and take their seats once again as if nothing had happened.

I’ll kill you, Luna. Your days are numbered.

“Alright, girls, the time has come to discuss the blue pegasus in the clouds.”

Instantly a look of disgust appeared on Applejack’s face.

“Ugh, what’s Dashie done now? I swear if she bankrupted that damned factory again, I’ll snap her neck!”

Rarity gently placed a hoof on her shoulder.

“Come on, now Darling, surely you don’t mean that.”

Applejack angrily twitched as she shouted back.

“Don’t you darling me, Rar. My *ahem* associates and I spent hundreds of thousands of bits greasing the hooves of Cloudsdale’s higher-ups. I spent the better part of a year ‘convincing’ the residents it was in their best interest to let Rainbow open that factory, not to mention the propaganda campaign we ran about failures being a blemish on the Pegasus’s reputation, convincing them to send those that failed in the work or flight tests to the factory to be ‘put to better use’.”

Rarity flicked her now luxurious violet coifed mane with a white-furred hoof, the amulet around her neck and the ring at the base of her tail sparkling in the candlelight.

“And you’ve done a wonderful job darling, there’s no reason to be a sour apple.”

Twilight’s eye twitched in annoyance as Applejack brought her hooves crashing down on the table causing cracks in the supposedly indestructible stone it was made of. Shouting, Applejack’s natural mannerism of speech started to show in her ire.

“She didn’t even say thank you! Gave ‘er my services fer no cost an’ she didn’t even so much as bat an eye!”

Starlight shook her head as Twilight twitched, causing her partner to stay put as she addressed AJ’s outburst. Her words were ones of a well-worn sorrow.

“That’s not fair, you know, Sugarcube.”

Applejack stiffened as Starlight used her personal name for the mare. Closing her eyes, Starlight swayed in place as though hearing a melody none other could. Her eyes flew open as she continued.

“Dashie’s well aware of what you did for her, what all of you have done. What…I’ve done for her. She cannot express how much pride she has for her friends. Not that she doesn’t want to, but even if she did, her Element of Narcissism would not permit her to acknowledge the efforts of others. After all, none can be greater than her. She knows what you did Sugarcube, she’ll just never let you know that she knows.

Still, the melody of harmony requires one more piece, one more complete bearer. And that is why you were called here, to finally awaken that which lays dormant within her; to finally awaken her Element of Loyalty.”

***

“In the end, we came to the conclusion that only Rarity’s Selfishness could counter Dashie’s Narcissism; we had her lay claim to Dashie, forcing the Pegasus to obey her. Well at first anyway. Literally on a leash, Dashie was forced to stay by Rarity’s side, but then as she struggled against her bonds, Rarity’s generosity got the better of her.”

Just then a wicked cackle from overhead was heard.

“Less pleading for forgiveness and more cleaning little sister! And Applebloom, if you think even for a second I’ve forgiven you just you wait until your big sister gets back! She is far less understanding than I am.”

Applejack chuckled and ruffled Dash’s mane, much to the delight of the Pegasus.

“Some things never change. Anyway, much like with you, Rarity’s Selfishness bound Dashie to her will, but Rarity’s element of harmony caused her to dote on Dashie to almost unbearable levels and miraculously awoke Dashie’s Loyalty. And because of her desire to protect Rarity had emerged, she did just that.

A Centaur named Tirek broke into the Canterlot Castle, managing to consume the magical abilities of Celestia and Luna. We were summoned to deal with him and so we came armed to the teeth. We were tossed like doll rags and then he turned on Rarity as she desperately tried to keep her Dashie safe.”

***

Tirek charged forward as a blur of cyan slammed into his face stunning him.

“Stay away from her!”

Rainbow Dash angrily tensed for another blow but Tirek just smiled his horrible smile.

“That all you got, welp?”

Rarity watched, unable to move with the debris on her leg, screaming at Dashie.

“Dashie don’t do-”

Before the command was issued, Rainbow Dash charged the centaur only for him to grab her skull in one hand and squeeze as he lifted her, struggling, causing Rainbow to scream in pain.

“S-Stop!”

Rarity’s plea fell on deaf ears as a horrible cracking sound was followed by the drip, drip of fresh blood.

“No.”

Rarity’s eyes went wide. There in front of her still in Tirek’s grasp, was the bloody visage of Dashie’s corpse; mangled and twisted in his grasp.

“No.No. Nonono Daaaaaaaaaashhhhhhhhie!”

In a swirl of shadows, a cold wind blew and Rarity gave into her rage. Her form grew bigger and her fur changed to a rich black in a flash, her eyes resembled diamonds and no longer had any semblance of holding back.

Together, standing alongside Twilight and Starlight, the three managed to slay the massive Centaur; overwhelming him with magical blasts born of pure hatred.

“That’s for Dashie.”

Rarity whispered as the dead Centaur crashed to the broken stone floor.

“That’s for my Dashie.”

***

“To this day, my little sugarcube, Rar blames herself for what happened to Dashie. She believes her inability to command Dashie at that moment was what led to her demise. I don’t buy it though.”

“What do you think happened?”

“She knew full well she couldn’t win, Dashie wasn’t an idiot. Not by a long shot. Dashie with her Narcissism made the ultimate display of loyalty. I think she finally found somepony she felt was worth dying for.”

Dash was silent for a moment before saying softly.

“Wow.”

Applejack paused, her ear twitching.

“Hm, seems to have quieted down up there. Why don’t you reflect on what I’ve said, while I go talk to Rarity about this.”

“But-”

“Trust me.”

Dash watched as AJ made her way back to the elevator, before laying on her back and closing her eyes; since she was already recharging, she simply turned off her filters for her senses, laying there thinking to herself. Her thoughts slowly shifted to the Rarity from her world. I’m sorry I failed you. Again.

Chapter 21: Dash Exile.EXE

Dash lay in her bed, in the dark. In the silence. Her thoughts ran rampant as she lay there; thoughts about the incident that landed her here, what she could have changed. What she tried to forget. Feeling a sudden touch on her head, Dash’s eyes snapped open to see the smiling face of Rarity as she gently ran her hoof through the multi-colored mane.

Eagerly opening her mouth to address her mistress, Dash found a hoof pressed against her muzzle.

“No talking, just listening. Understood, Darling?”

Dash slowly nodded, and Rarity slowly removed her hoof from Dash’s muzzle. Sitting on the edge of the grand bed, Rarity sighed and slowly shook her head.

“Oh, Dash. I know you want to hurt, and believe me, little one, I am more than happy to demean, humiliate and make you cry in pain, but in ways that make you cry tears of joy. Punishment is not meant to be fun and issuing one is painful to both you, the receiver, and me, the giver. I am far from kind spirits when I punish you and you continuously seek them out; in your quest to atone, as you put it.”

Gently rustling Dash’s wings with her hooves, Rarity smiled lovingly.

“That needs to stop, and no you don’t get a say in it. I want you to look at me and say you understand. You belong to me and Applejack. What we say goes, I do not wish to suffer my past just as much as you wish to not suffer yours. Got it, my Dash?”

“Y-yes Mistress Rarity.”

Leaning down to gently snuggle her, Rarity whispered.

“That’s my good girl. Now, let’s get you into something more comfortable.”

Dash’s heart leaped as the silken attire vanished from her body, and reaching up she no longer felt that insufferable coronet. Her bed changed to become a simple pillow on the floor and all her extravagant furniture vanished in a heartbeat. Dash smiled happily. She had nothing, once more.

Rarity spoke to Dash in a gentle whisper.

“Normally I wouldn’t do this for misbehavior, but I think you’ve learned your lesson and realize exactly who is hurting through your actions, so…”

Rarity paused before producing a small glass vial with a strange green mist within it. Dash’s eyes lit up in excitement as Rarity gave her a small warning.

“This bottle contains the culmination of my research in aromatherapy. With this, your mind will finally take you there, and you will see her again. Dash the time has come for you to make peace with your demons.”

Dash became nervous; fidgeting and twitching anxiously.

“Do-do you think I’m ready?”

Rarity shook her head with a warm smile.

“No. Not by yourself anyway, which is why I’ll be joining you.”

The steam of the shower rose around the two, as Rarity and Rainbow were pressed together in the tight space; not that either minded. Feeling the warmth and soothing caress of the water streaming down on their bodies, Rarity looked down at Dash; as the latter gently snuggled against her midriff.

With a loving smile, Rarity’s horn began to glow causing the cork to pop from the glass bottle. The smell of fresh sawdust, bourbon, whiskey, and cider intermingled along with the abrasive scent of cigars; the scent of a dive bar that once resided in Cloudsdale, under the rule of Dashina, Princess of Loyalty. The same scent as the night she was exiled. Rarity mentally prepared herself as she cast the spell to visit Dashina’s memories. She says she betrayed everypony and was exiled. I need to be ready for anything.

“We don’t get many Earthponies here, Sugar. What can I do you for?”

Rarity blinked as Dash raised a wing in front of Pinkie Pie and snarled.

“She’s with me Cassonova.”

She wasn’t prepared for this. The stallion bartender chuffed in annoyance before asking in a far less cordial manner.

“So what’ll it be, lezma-?”

Rainbow’s hoof lashed out as she roughly grabbed the bartender.

“Finish that word, and this establishment will need a new bartender, capisce?”

Wrenching himself free of her grasp, he gave a sharp breath of precious air.

“Geeze, Princess, who pissed in your storm cloud?”

“Just shut up and do your job.”

Rarity turned to the side and watched as her Dash mouthed every word. She had warned Dash that the memory would play out exactly as before, before the two of them. And this reiteration of her Dash seemed to be a bit of a rabble-rouser; an angry drunk.

I was a horrible mare back then mistress…This isn’t so bad, so she threatened others? I made a living out of killing ponies en mass, this is nothi-

“Hey Pinkie, go get us a booth.”

“What about your wife?”

“Ugh, don’t get me started! She has no concept of fun, unlike you..”

“Are you sure? Maybe you should head home and spend time with her.”

“Nah, she’ll be fine without me there for one night.”

“Hm, you’re probably right. In that case, why don’t we go somewhere a bit more private; I know some really fun things we can do.”

“Mmm I like the sound of that.”

Dash looked sickened as she watched the scene, her eyes hooded over.

“Please follow me, mistress.”

Rarity looked at her submissive in confusion.

“Dash, sweetie, I can see you were adulterous but I really have no desire to see you, you know, with another mare.”

“If only…but it’s not what you think, just please follow me.”

Curiously following Dash, as she pursued her memory self upstairs, Rarity was startled to see Dashina’s past self-bound, gagged, and blindfolded on a bed. Facing the trussed-up Dash was Pinkie Pie, in her hooves a whip, and she giggled.

“Having fun, my little Pegasus?”

Turning to give Dash a warning glare, Rarity spoke softly.

“I thought I said I didn’t want to see-”

But she stopped, seeing the absolute misery painted on Dash’s face. And as Pinkie taunted the Dashina of the past, Rarity soon understood why. Pinkie’s face began to stretch and from her forehead, a single, crooked black horn emerged. Her body grew longer and thinner, as her furred hide became a shiny black carapace. Rarity’s blood ran cold. Chrysalis; the Queen of the Changelings now stood where Pinkie had. Instinctually, Rarity jumped in front of Dash and shouted to her, her horn glowing a bright blue.

“Dash! Get back. I’ll hold her off, get out of here!”

However, Rarity felt a hoof on her shoulder as a soft voice said.

“Mistress, it is only a memory.”

“Right, right. The past. I know that.”

Her horn ceased glowing, but Rarity’s eyes stayed fixed attentively on the image of the Changeling Ruler, her teeth clenched in anger.

“I know that.”

Feeling Dash’s hoof on her shoulder, Rarity took a deep breath.

“I’m alright, I’m fine. I’m fine.”

Dash gently nuzzled her, neck, causing Rarity to laugh as she gently scruffed Dash’s mane, in response.

“I’m fine sweetie, I promise, you lovely nuisance. Let’s continue.”

Turning back to the scene, Rarity watched as Chrysalis opened a portal with her magic, in which was…her. Rarity’s eyes went wide seeing herself with Celestia’s amulet and Luna’s crown, on a throne surrounded by Changelings; fangs inches from her throat. She watched as Chrysalis walked over to the bound Dashina and lifted her blindfold.

Dashina stared hollowed-eyed at the portal. At her wife. Struggling against her bonds to no avail, she looked distraught as she shouted at Rarity.

“Rare I’m sorry I’m so sorry! I-”

Chrysalis laughed and spoke to her, her voice low and tormenting.

“As glorious as it is to see you in agony, you can relax, she cannot see us and my spawn won’t attack her without my command. You really should have taken my advice and headed home, Princess.

I’m tired of fighting you, Princess. I’m tired of you playing fast and loose with your position. Princess of Loyalty, my flank. Drinking, cheating, gambling. You don’t care about your subjects. You aren’t fit to rule. And I am-”

Gently fluffing Dashina’s mane, Chrysalis continued as she transformed into a mirrored image of Dashina, regal attire and all.

“I can easily pass for you, a better you.”

Sitting on the bed next to Dashina, Chrysalis gave a soft laugh.

"So this time, I give you a simple decision: leave and never return, and give me that crown. or I will have my children kill everypony in your kingdom. Including-”

Pointing at the portal, before looking the bound and gagged Pegasus in her eyes.

“Her.”

The bound Princess stiffened and her eyes went dark, unable to do anything. The ballgag was removed as Chrysalis asked her.

“So what’s your answer, Princess?”

Dashina was quiet for a moment, before, with a voice laden with defeat, whispered.

“And what happens to them, all of them, if I do?”

Rarity watched Chrysalis nod.

“I am not a monster. If you surrender and go into exile, I will rule in your stead, and you have my word, your ponies will be spared any unpleasantries.”

Dashina swallowed hard.

“So be it-”

Glancing up at the portal once more, Dashina whispered just three words as another portal opened beside her.

“Rarity, I’m sorry.”

Looking at Chrysalis, Dashina spoke, tears slowly making their way down her face.

“I lose. You win, Chrysalis.”

Sitting beside Dash on her bed once more, Rarity spoke up for the first time since sitting down.

“I expected to see something horrible, but Dash, that…”

“I know, I know! I’m awful.”

Rarity fell silent once more. She wasn’t so sure Dash needed to hate herself for her actions, if anything in her eyes, Dash did the right thing. Glancing beside her at her distraught pet, Rarity pondered how to make Dash see that she did it for them.

Rarity silently sighed. She hated seeing her submissive in such a state. How could she ease her pain, and open her eyes? She didn’t know what to do. Rarity had committed genocide on several species, killed millions with a smile on her face and this was the hardest, heaviest decision she could remember having to make.

On a rock shrouded in the dark, lay a gloopy, ooze-like creature that resembled a Changeling, but wetly dripped all over the surface of the rock. Surrounding the rock, beams of sunlight radiated down, trapping the creature. Drip, drip, splat, sizzle.

Lazily, and sloshing about the creature turned over, flopping lazily onto what appeared to be a gloopy, glistening pair of wings. Lifting an oozing foreleg, it pawed listlessly at the air. Opening its malformed muzzle to reveal gooey and glistening fangs. Angrily it wetly screamed with a mare’s voice.

“So boring!”

The shout echoed throughout the underground cavern, like always. The wretched sun held her imprisoned. It wasn’t fair!

“We did nothing wrong!”

We only followed our nature. But like always, the cavern echoed her pleas. Taunting her, mocking her. The cavern fell silent as the echoes died away leaving her to wallow in despair in the sun-encircled darkness once more. Wait, did we just hear that?

A sound, like a skittering rock, had reached her dripping ears, not just that but as she listened, she heard voices.

“Are you sure this is where she is, Pinkie?”

“Yup. Though we really shouldn’t be here, Starlight will be so angry.”

“I have to know what she’s like.”

On the rock, the mare’s squishy, oozing sea-green eyes snapped open in excitement.

A visitor? A visitor to see us?

Chapter 22: The Smooze: One's a Child

“We shouldn’t be here.”

“What’s got you so afraid, Pinkie?”

Staring into the massive maw of the giant archway, Chrysi’s companion seemed on edge.

“If Starlight catches us, she’ll be furious, and she might not be able to kill us, but there are things far worse than death when it comes to her.”

Even with her grating mechanical voice, Chrysi could hear the desperation in her words. Something had spooked her unshakable ex-serial killer. Looking at the stone cavern opening, Chrysi couldn’t help but notice it resembled a giant, gaping mouth, complete with fangs. In fact, was it the bright light of the apocalyptic sun, or were the rocks of the massive cavern bleached white; almost like…bone. The entire thing is the skull of a dragon. But not one I’ve ever seen. Then that means-

“Come on, Chrysi, we have to hurry if we are going at all. She won’t be long in recharging and she will no doubt want to know where we are.”

Clambering over one of the fangs, Pinkie continued.

“And what we’ve been doing. So let’s hurry up and get out of here.”

For several minutes the two had been walking, Chrysi noticing the massive ribs they were passing through, protruding through the rocky floor. As the two walked, they drew nearer to a single spot where the rays of the scorching sun streamed down through holes in the cavern roof, in a very specific way; almost like a cage.

“Are you sure she’s here?”

“Yup. But we need to hurry. I don’t want to be here long.”

“Visitorsss!”

The sickeningly squelchy voice of the creature imprisoned within the light-filled the cavern and she sounded…excited. She seems excited. And is that my voice? Chrysi listened in astonishment as her own voice shouted again and again.

“Visitors to see us! Ssssweet Visssitors!”

Chrysi blinked in surprise, staring into the blinding light as her scanners indicated an organic lifeform. She called out to it.

“Y-you don’t mind us being here?”

The wet voice sputtered and hissed forth in reply.

“Been so long sssince we had visitorsss. We were so bored. Come. Come closssser. Let us sssee you.”

Sharing a glance with Pinkie, she was surprised to see Pinkie nod.

“Go ahead, she can’t hurt you or possess you. The light will protect you.”

“Come come, We won’t bitesss you.”

Turning towards the cage of sunlight, Chrysi cautiously walked forward towards the mare within, as the mare gestured towards her.

“Come, come Chrysalisss, yes, yesss we know who you are.”

“Wha- How do you-”

“It’s been many yearsss but we ssstill know our voice. Yes, yes. We know you, we know usss. Come to us, talk to usss. Why have you come here?”

Chrysi spoke up, her voice normal, but her words held an underlying meaning.

“I’ve come to see you, the killer of my world; the Smooze.”

The creature took pause at this accusation before responding in a sloppily waterlogged voice.

“We once had that name but that was not usss, we did no such thing.”

“You killed the Princesses!”

Rearing up with a loud Splish, splosh, her ooze dripped and splattered onto the superheated rock due to the sudden movement.

“We only did what we were told to!”

Pinkie looked shocked as she interjected.

“Hold on. Told to?”

Settling down, the oozing Chrysalis crossed her gooey hooves as she resumed laying down. Nodding her head, she bubbled with delight at the memory.

“We remember it quite clearly.”

Blip, blop, The dark. Oh, how it loved the dark; the damp, rank, dark of its little container. The same container it had been confined to for millennia without interruption. It wasn’t very big, but then again neither was this reincarnation of The Smooze. Just a Smoozling, it bubbled and swished happily from one side of its home to another; not a care in the world.

And then the blinding light shone in as the lid was removed and a sinister voice spoke to The Smooze.

“Why hello there, little one.”

Instinctively the little Smooze tried to hide within its container only to find its way blocked by a forehoof, upon which it crawled slowly up; inching its way along the lavender-furred foreleg as the feminine voice spoke once more.

“Oh, you’re a cutie aren’t you? Are you having fun, little one?”

The Smooze blooped and slid happily over the strange new surface before the hoof was lowered back into the container and the Smooze slid down and back onto the container’s floor. Sploosh, splat, splish, it bubbled happily, excited about its new adventure.

“Aw, there’s a good Smooze. I’ll come to visit you again, little one. I promise.”

And so it was, every few days the Smooze would receive a visit from the mysterious mare. Visits the little oozeling would look forward to; crawling about outside of its containment. It came to treasure those moments, during which the lavender-furred, winged mare would fill its mind with tales of freedom. The freedom it had never known. The freedom it grew to crave.

Hours upon hours, it would crawl and squirm up and down the mare’s forelegs; it learned primitive means of communication, jiggling side to side for no and bobbing up and down for yes. As it was doted on, it grew; larger and larger, until it barely fit in its container. And then came the final visit.

“Oh, you’ve grown so large, who’s my adorable little oozer?”

The Smooze oozed and slithered over the mare like always, but this time, it was lowered onto the stone flooring of the dungeon it had been stored in. It bubbled and hiss in excitement as the mare; the only creature it knew, spoke to it.

“Oh I’m so proud of you, and it’s almost time for you to be as free as me, but first you must do one thing for momma: Kill Princess Luna. She’s an Alicorn, like me, a body of navy-blue fur and a cutiemark of a crescent moon in the midnight sky.”

The lavender-furred mare paused before continuing.

“She’s hurt many, and oppressed all, robbing us of our lives and free will. We live by her will, do as she commands, and suffer because of it. She’s broken our backs, our legs, our spines, but you, my little one, will break her spirit.”

A voice called from the stairwell.

“Twilight, it’s time to go.”

The mare nodded, calling out.

“I’m coming Starlight!”

Gesturing to the Smooze, Twilight smiled as she felt it crawl up her back to hide beneath her wings.

“The night mare’s reign ends tonight.”

The oozing Changeling shrugged and smiled her gooey smile.

“And ssso we killed the Luna.”

There was no guilt, no remorse. If anything her words were spoken with pride. Pinkie and Chrysi stared silently at the gooey bubbling creature, aghast at this sudden revelation. Chrysi couldn’t believe it, the genocide of the dragons, the griffons, all of it was because of this child-like, playful, creature?

A creature that only did as it had been taught by its ‘momma’. Innocent and playful, Chrysi watched The Smooze roll over, like a dog, with a sickening squelching sound. It almost seemed like it couldn’t sit still and was genuinely excited to tell them its tale. But if this one had no idea what it was doing was wrong, what about the one from my world?

Pinkie stared at the creature with her ocular receptors, blinking in confusion.

“What about you absorbing Chrysalis?”

Once again the amalgamation merging of Changeling and Smooze looked affronted.

“Absssorbed? We did not absssorbs each other, we became one with the other. We are one. We are usss. Nothing elssse.”

Pondering this answer, Chrysalis stiffened as she heard a grating, metallic voice loudly call out from behind.

“Well, well, what have we here?”

Pinkamena whirled around at the voice, her knife clenched in her muzzle, only to find a more terrifying sight than she could have expected. Starlight stood framed in the sunlight of the cavern’s archway with her wings flared. And she wasn’t smiling.

Chapter 23: Cares and Concerns

Starlight tapped her hooves on the virtual table; in front of her sat Pinkamena and Chrysi, both with gauges reading 8% above them. Angrily, Starlight tried to maintain a balance in her voice.

“I can’t believe you two. Chrysi, Charging cables empty, no note no notice of where you went. You know better Pinkie! What if you had broken down out there? What if you had gone offline?”

“Mom, I-”

“Don’t you mom me, Chrysi! Young mare, I was worried! What were you thinking?”

For the past thirty minutes, Starlight had lectured them on the dangers of running off without letting her know. As the waitress approached them, she slammed her hoof down.

“Pinkie, do you want me to revoke your freedoms, again? Think about that for a few minutes. I trusted you with my daughter and you do this! I’m disappointed in you. Now, stay silent while I order for us.”

The waitress stood there, glancing apprehensively over at Pinkie as she deftly flipped her knife absent-mindedly. Chrysi tapped her shoulder and whispered.

“Put that away.”

In the blink of an eye, the knife vanished and Pinkie blinked.

“Oh sorry about that.”

“Yes some chili cheese fries loaded with haybacon, that’ll do nicely, oh and…”

Starlight continued ordering as Pinkie stared miserably at the table. She continued staring in silence, along with Chrysi, until a large strawberry milkshake was placed in front of both. Glancing up in surprise, Pinkie was met by the warm smile on Starlight’s face.

“You’ve been railed enough by me, at least for now. So let’s enjoy our lunch, but I will ask you one thing. What did you expect to gain from your little visit to such a forbidden area, girls?”

Chrysi and Pinkie sat in silence for a moment, watching as Starlight, very unprincess-like, shoveled hoof full after hoof full of chili cheese fries into her mouth. She moaned happily, before looking at the plate forlornly.

“So good! Just wish it was real.”

“I wanted to see the difference.”

The words were barely uttered in a murmur; a mumble from Chrysi who just stared at her deluxe hayburger with cheese. Starlight swallowed and looked at her.

“What was that?”

Chrysi’s eyes were haunted, hooded over as she spoke again.

“I wanted to see the difference between this world’s Chrysalis and me, the Smooze of this world, and the Smooze of…mine.”

Pausing to wipe her hooves, Starlight nodded slowly, and a thoughtful expression crossed her face. She glanced at Pinkie; snout deep in a strawberry milkshake, before turning back to Chrysi and saying.

“You never really told me how the Smooze got loose in your world.”

“It was our fault. Twilight’s and mine.”

Placing her hooves on her head in distress Chrysi continued.

“We were so stupid. So stupid. To celebrate our first anniversary we got drunk and decided to be dangerous with our passion and so we ventured down into the depths of Canterlot Castle.”

She gestured with a forehoof at nothing in particular.

“In our world, there were several sealed doors behind which the worst were held forever entombed, but in our drunken stupor we unsealed that door, that stupid door.”

Feeling tears forming in her eyes she whispered.

“The Celestial Princesses were first to arrive but it absorbed their magic…and then them. And with each bit of magic, it grew larger and larger, and we couldn’t stop it, we-”

Starlight’s hug cut off any more words, as she cried into Starlight’s chest fluff.

“That’s enough. It’s okay, shh, shh I’ve got you. Mommy’s got you. There, there, sweetie.”

As Chrysi cried into Starlight’s fluff, the waitress from earlier started back over and began asking the table her usual script.

“How is every-”

She froze in fear as the sharpened edge of an acrid, rust-scented knife pressed against her throat; Pinkie growling at her.

“Shut up, we’re having a moment here, go attend to other tables.”

Beads of sweat trickled down the waitress’s brow as she stammered.

“V-very good ma’am.”

As she ran off to other tables, Starlight raised an eyebrow.

“Bit much wasn’t it? She was only doing her job.”

“Hmph, she will do it from beyond the grave if she disturbs my Chrysi.”

Chuckling, Starlight gently nuzzled Chrysi who was still bawling her eyes out.

“Fair enough. It’s alright Chrysi, let it out. That’s a good girl.”

Throwing herself on the frosting side of the bed, Chrysi sighed. Grounded. Next to her lay the two Pinkies; both looking bored. Grounded for a week. Starlight had grounded the pair to their charging cables for a week. And now they lay in their bed, trying to think of something to do. Closing their eyes, all three fell asleep.

For hours, they lay there resting, when a loud tapping on the door to their room was heard.

*Knock, knock*

Groggily opening her eyes, Chrysi slowly rose and walked over to the door. Sleepily she muttered.

“Who’m ish it?”

“Mom.”

Instantly Chrysi’s eyes cleared up as the gentle voice replied. Nearly throwing open the door, Chrysi was met with the warmly smiling face of Twilight Sparkle. Swiftly, Twilight’s wings flared out and wrapped around Chrysi, giving her a gentle nuzzle.

“Hello, sweetie.”

Giving a low whistle, like one would use to call a dog, Twilight chittered.

“Here, girls!”

Instantly, both Pinkies sprang up and ran over to Twilight, hugging her profusely. She smiled.

“That’s my Pinkies.”

Tickling the chin of both, Twilight grinned.

“So my daughter has chosen you as a partner. How wonderful. Though, mind telling me why the two of you are grounded for a week?”

Sitting on the bed with Pinkie Pie draped over her lap, Twilight sat nodding thoughtfully. She playfully placed a cupcake near Pinkie’s mouth and smiled gently as the party pony snatched it, chewing it happily.

Twilight’s glowing ruby eyes glinted with chaotic energy as she laughed.

“So you snuck into the cave and held a conversation with her, huh? Well, you are my daughter, after all, I’m not all that surprised. The rules matter little to mavericks like us. Though-”

Her eyes narrowed suddenly.

“I suggest you listen closely to what I’m going to tell you.”

Gesturing to herself with her hoof, Twilight’s wings flared wide.

“I will not apologize for what I did. I killed that wretched night mare. And I don’t give a flying feather about the lives it cost. But I already know I am a monster; my power is nearly unrivaled and my words are absolute. Every since I absorbed the darkness within the amulet, what I want I make it openly clear and nothing will prevent me from getting my way.

That Chrysalis, that Smooze, however, is something far worse than myself; innocent. With nothing but innocence and playfulness, it sees the world as a playground and any action it takes is purely part of a game it is eternally playing. It knows nothing of right or wrong, good or evil, and that is what makes it so horrifying. Understand?”

Chrysi swallowed hard. Twilight’s words carried an unusual weight to them, a gnawingly tense gravity, that held grave concern. She nodded.

“Yes, mom.”

Once more Twilight’s wicked eyes shifted to her normally carefree manner.

“Good girl. Oh?”

A loud knocking on the front door caused Twilight to grin as her eyes glinted knowingly.

“Well now-”

Rising to her hooves and folding her wings, Twilight chuckled as she opened the door to reveal the startled faces of Dash, Rarity, and Applejack; the three fumbling words to make an excuse for the keg of cider and cake that said ‘Congrats on your first grounding’.

Pushing through the little crowd, Twilight said softly.

“What? I didn’t see anything. And Chrysi, just remember what I’ve said.”

Chapter 25: Uncrossing Wires

Chrysi let out a plume of smoke, exhaling slowly before placing the paper cylinder of ash against her lips once more. She lay on the digital bed, enjoying a calming smoke, after what had appeared to have been a wild party. Turning her head, she stared over at the now empty and somewhat crumpled keg of hard cider; next to which lay Dash and Applejack, both displayed in all their glory in truly undignified, snoring and drooling poses.

The sound of turning pages caused Chrysi to glance beside her at Rarity who was staring at a decidedly old magazine, with page after page of wedding dresses that were as the listings stated, sold in Canterlot. A soft presence about Chrysi’s midriff let her know Pinkemena was contentedly snuggling up to her, fast asleep and muttering obscenities under her breath. Chrysi smiled before closing her eyes. Being grounded isn’t so bad. Her mind slowly grew fuzzier and fuzzier as oblivion claimed her, and she fell into a deep slumber.

Chrysi opened her eyes and groggily sat up. Glancing around, she noticed the decorations were gone, the mess cleaned up and the girls were all gone. All except for Pinkemena, who lay on her right, and Pinkie Pie who was nuzzling her torso from the left.

She smiled sleepily down at the duo. Neither was asleep.

“Hey, girls.”

Pinkemena rolled onto her back, her knife materializing from nowhere as she threw it upward to embed in the ceiling only to vanish and reappear in her hooves once more. She gave a sideways glance at Chrysi, before averting her eyes and stating.

“Something on your mind, Princess?”

“Princess?”

Pinkie chimed in, in a whiny voice.

“No fair reading ahead, Mena, I’m not on that chapter yet.”

Chrysi blinked in confusion.

“W-what?”

Pinkie clasped her hoof over her mouth as Pinkamena uttered a swear.

“By Celestia’s sun, Pinkie! Chrysi, don’t mind her…she’s an idiot. You’ll go mad trying to understand half the things she says. Anyway, what’s on your mind?”

Chrysi spoke slowly as she stared at Pinkie.

“Ri-i-i-ight.”

Turning to Pinkamena, she continued talking.

“Actually, yeah there is something on my mind, now that you mention it. Can you tell me about this world’s Celestia?”

Pinkamena stiffened, her hoof missing the knife catch, causing it to embed itself point down, inches from her face, in the mattress. As it quivered, Pinkamena muttered softly, very uncharacteristic of her.

“We can’t discuss…”

Pinkemena’s voice faltered as she glanced sideways at Chrysi and saw the lucid green eyes water, as the Changeling’s fanged mouth turned down in a pouty frown; the same pout that tore apart the walls of Pinkamena’s heart. Quickly, Pinkamena sat up and frantically waved her hooves as she shouted.

“I mean we aren’t supposed to…”

Once more her voice died in her throat, was she crazy or did that pout get larger? Of course, she was crazy, but she could swear it was more pronounced. She stammered, hanging her head in utter defeat.

“D-damn it, why me? What do you want to know?”

In the digital palace, at the end of the long hallway, just behind two massive, gilded doors, Twilight lay next to Starlight on their Queen-sized banister bed. The two occasionally spoke to each other, their noses in books, as they frantically searched the pages; just as they did every recharge cycle. Twilight turned a page.

“It’s not in this chapter, moving on to the next. Those crafty Alicorns. They hid it rather well, I must say.”

Starlight didn’t look up, instead remarking offhandedly.

“They weren’t idiots, Twi. They were just easy to kill.”

“True…Oh? What’s this?”

Starlight glanced up, her left eye was glowing with a bright navy blue, while her right was her normal amethyst. She looked over to Twilight, whose own right eye was glowing magenta, while her left displayed her usual crimson. Both exchanged a glance as a screen appeared before them; depicting Pinkamena and Chrysi laying on the bed, chatting.

“She was truly the worst. An Alicorn gifted with restoration magic, she treated the souls of others like toys to be broken at her whim.”

“Restoration? How is that evil?”

Starlight looked directly at Twilight.

“Looks like they are discussing her. Want to stop them?”

Twilight’s magenta eye glowed brightly, and Twilight watched as images suddenly flashed through her mind at a breakneck pace. She suddenly smiled and shook her head.

“No, she needs to hear this.”

Starlight watched as Twilight let out a menacing laugh. How long had it been since Starlight had heard her laugh with such sincerity?

“What did you see?”

Twilight’s eyes watered momentarily as she replied.

“A future worth dying for, Starlight. A future worth dying for.”

Pinkamena looked uncomfortable as she closed her eyes. Her voice was solemn, and her tone as cold as her heart.

“Picture this. An all-powerful ruler of the land summons you, you are not going for a social visit. No, you messed up. A lowly slave, you could not achieve your quota for the day, due to reasons beyond your control. And Luna has decided to punish you personally, as she did at random.

You now stand before the destroyer that is Princess Luna, in the back you can see the smiling face of her sister, and she appears to be waiting for something. And Luna decides you must die for your inadequacy after she berates you; removing any shred of dignity you may cling to. Off with your head, she says, and that is exactly what she does. Your last moments of fear and terror before your heart stops, your headless body bleeding out as you enter the gateway to the afterlife. You are finally free. And suddenly, like that, you are standing before Luna again, all the pain, all the terror flooding through you as you scream in agony, your mind processing the memory of your death; you stare into the merciless eyes of Luna, as once again, she removes your head.

Once more, in a flash, you are back in one piece, only for the memory of two deaths permeating your mind. Again, and again, you experience the horror of your own demise, slowly going insane as again and again, the white Alicorn keeps restoring your body, your soul, and your memories. That is until she gets bored, and you are sent back home to your family; broken and destroyed, your mind desperately clawing itself apart, and you can’t tell your mom, or sisters, because what could you say? So you develop another personality to contain the pain, and….”

Pinkamena suddenly broke down in tears, throwing herself into Chrysi’s hooves, bawling.

Starlight was mortified. She had never actually been told how Pinkie Pie came to be; a perfectly happy party pony persona that Pinkamena could interchange with, at will. She always assumed it was just something that made Pinkie…well, Pinkie. All this time, though Pinkie Pie, the Element of Laughter, was just a shield. Pinkie was created to block that pain. I never knew.

She glanced up from the screen to see Twilight, her eyes hooded over, as she quaked with a silent, shaking rage, that Starlight hadn’t seen since the night The Sisters had died. Twilight raised a hoof to her magenta eye, now glowing fiercely. Starlight whispered to her.

“Did you know?”

“It was mother’s favorite disciplinary measure.”

Twilight’s voice was toneless, empty as she spoke.

“Every time I would fail to achieve top marks or came in second behind Luna’s prodigy, she would kill me. Not something as swift as Luna’s ways, either. No, she would make sure my demise was painful and felt in every fiber of my being; skinned alive, burned for hours, frozen, even dismembered. Every time a different way and every time she would bring me back, healing the physical wounds but making sure the memories and pain were alive in my mind as well.

This is your fault for being so weak and unworthy, she would then say. And when I was expelled for cheating, the pain was unimaginable, I was at my end until I resolved to kill her for what she had done. That was the only thing that kept me sane.

I ran away and joined Sombra hoping to grow strong enough, and even then I wasn’t. I risked everything to internalize and conquer The Alicorn Amulet’s power, absorbing it into my being, and still, it wasn’t enough. My mother was a monster beyond monsters.”

Twilight lowered her hoof as her crimson eye began to water. She continued.

“But I knew that, that’s why we killed them. For vengeance. But as for Pinkamena, I never knew. I can’t believe after all this time with her, I never knew.”

“Twilight-”

Starlight reached out to touch Twilight, only for her partner to jerk away.

“I’m the Princess of Empathy! My job is to feel and resonate with others, to understand their trials, and tribulations. To get them through those times they can’t get through alone, to shoulder that weight. She’s one of my closest allies, somepony that I vowed to protect! And I couldn’t even share her pain when she needed it.”

“Twilight, you can’t blame yourself.”

“You’re right. I couldn’t help her then, but I can now.”

Twilight’s wings flared wide and began to glow as the pain and suffering of Pinkamena were magically funneled through the screen and directly into them. Starlight watched in awe as Twilight literally took Pinkamena’s pain as her own, her crimson eye starting to water.

Twilight began to tremble, barely at first, before quaking as wave after wave of agonizing pain washed over her; the agony of many deaths, of decades of keeping it a secret, the pain of sleepless nights, of wanting to scream. All of it flowed into her, and she let loose a bloodcurdling scream as tears flooded her eyes and broke loose, streaming down from the crimson one like that of a river.

Her tears turned scarlet red as she screamed, again and again, collapsing into Starlight’s hooves, whimpering and sobbing. Meanwhile, Starlight stole a glance at the screen and watched as Pinkamena’s own tears faded, her breathing growing calmer in the hooves of Chrysi.

Suddenly as cuts crisscrossed her body and a spray of crimson erupted from within her, Twilight’s horn glowed brightly with a golden hue, and she passed out, her magenta eye glowing and pulsing brightly. Her breathing remained calm and suddenly stopped, as magic emanated from her horn and flowed into each of her wounds. Starlight’s breath caught in her throat as she watched the lacerations slowly heal; fading away like they were never there.

Starlight grabbed the still form of Twilight in a warm embrace as Twilight’s barrel once more began to move up and down in a gentle rhythm. Starlight felt the warmth of Twilight’s breath and her stone-cold form began pulsing with a gentle heat. The light shone once more in Twilight’s crimson eye as she sat up, smiling.

“Like that.”

Starlight smacked her with her hoof.

“You idiot, that was close.”

Twilight nuzzled Starlight gently, before slipping out of the bed, and heading towards the chamber doors.

“You, of all Ponies, should know by now, it takes far more than that to kill me, Star.”

“Where are you going?”

“I need some air.”

Minutes later, Starlight watched as Twilight raced into Pinkamena’s chamber and without so much as a word, grabbed Pinkamena, and Chrysi in a hug; wrapping them tightly in her wings.

Chapter 26: Processing Reality- Part 1

Dash grunted as she plummeted, crashing into the cracked, blackened ground at incredible velocity. She slowly pulled herself to her hooves, gears whining in desperation. The now twisted metal in her wings screeched out as Dash desperately tried to flap them, to no avail. Glancing up, she cried out.

“That’s not fair!”

Staring back down at her with baby blue eyes, and looking rather timid, was Fluttershy. The buttery yellow of her metal body glinted in the harsh sunlight, while her silky pink mane and tail whipped around in the solar wind. Her words were soft and timid as she called down to Dash.

“Y-you should probably surrender, D-Dash.”

“I will never-”

Dash’s frequency fell silent as Fluttershy smiled sweetly, and whispered softly. Her voice radiated with icy malice and her stutter completely vanished.

“Because all I want is to make you writhe in pain. To peel back your metal flesh and disassemble you, slowly, as you desperately begged me to stop.”

Fluttershy began to laugh, slowly at first, as soft as the driven snow. But that gentle laugh grew deeper and more wicked in tone. As her laughing grew more and more sinister, her eyes began to crackle with an almost chaotic electrical current.

Off to the side, sat the girls. Applejack and Rarity who had been watching, had grown bored and pulled out a deck of cards made from old motherboards, and sat playing poker. Pinkamena lay in Chrysi’s embrace as the two sat there, eagerly watching the spectacle. Both cheered as Shy taunted Dash.

On a ledge overlooking the small gathering, sat Starlight, her wings flattened against her sides as she watched with the intense ferocity of a mother hawk. And beside her, lay Twilight, nestled deep within her own metallic wings. Having grown disappointed from the lack of destructive power, as she called it, Twilight had entered ‘standby mode’.

Chrysi stared on in morbid fascination as Fluttershy bit down on Dash’s neck. In her former life, she would never have been as enthralled by the display of her friends going all out against each other. And yet, here she was smiling, laughing as Dash suddenly kicked out just as Fluttershy tore a massive chunk of metal from the Pegasus’s neck.

Why am I so excited? Chrysi could feel it welling up within her, a truly primal urge. A desire to cheer on the ensuing chaos, to witness the wanton destruction. Her fangs felt just a little sharper, her eyes a little colder as Dash’s hooves broke through Fluttershy’s metallic body. Isn’t it wrong to enjoy this?

Chrysi cheered loudly as Fluttershy staggered back, bright red coolant spraying from the holes in her barrel. Dash stumbled to her hooves, her own neck gushing that bright red coolant. Her voice was distorted, glitching in and out as it rose and fell in volume.

“This isn’t over, Shy!”

Fluttershy laughed coldly, ignoring her own wounds as she shouted back, caught up in the moment.

“I love when they fight back!”

The two laughed as they stared each other down. Chrysi’s eyes widened. They are smiling. Her own lips curled up in a malicious smirk. I’m smiling. Why am I smiling? She watched as the two charged each other, creating a blast of air on impact, causing the crystalized sand to fly into the air. The glass shards enveloped the two, creating an impenetrable smoke screen of debris. Both were heard to give shouts of pain. She could feel the coolant in her veins speed up, and she blinked. Excited? This situation was dire, her friends were tearing each other apart and she was excited. Chrysi found herself staring at the cloud, eager to see the outcome. Who won? Wait…Why do I care?

Before her sensors, the debris cleared and she saw the forms of Fluttershy and Dash, standing there on their hind hooves, forehooves connected in their final blow. Dash’s eyes widened as Fluttershy fell forward onto her, speaking just loud enough to be heard.

“That was awesome, Dash.”

Her body went limp as she lay against Dash, who staggered back two steps, smiling.

“That-”

She toppled over onto Fluttershy, muttering sullenly with her broken synthesizer.

“Is my line-”

Like Fluttershy, the LEDs that made up her eyes blinked on and off sporadically, before going dark.

“-Shy.”

Both lay there, completely still, their eyes completely dark as coolant poured out onto the ground making a pool of crimson red around the silent forms.

There was a moment of silence as Chrysi watched Mena rising to her hooves, and she found herself, much to her surprise doing the same. It just felt strangely natural. She opened her mouth to cheer.

“Ye-”

Her words died in her throat, as she looked around. Below her Mena stood frozen in mid-crouch as she prepared to leap into the air. Off to the side, AJ was in mid-laughter as Rarity hung, suspended in the air, having leaped at AJ; most likely having caught her cheating. Their cards lay in the air, Rarity having tossed them to the side. Chrysalis swallowed hard. Everything had stopped. Everything that is, but her.

Chrysalis looked wildly around her, but no matter where she looked, nothing moved.

“Is it as wonderful as you believed it would be?”

Chrysi stiffened. Behind her, she heard a voice that was anything but pleasant. Grating, and harsh almost as if the speaker were forcing the words out through clenched teeth. Yet, the voice was feminine and very familiar. Chrysalis felt the coolant that composed her blood turn to ice, whirling around she shouted.

“Luna!”

Her eyes went wide. Before her was…something, but it wasn’t Luna. Actually, Chrysi wasn’t sure what exactly she was looking at. A strange mist hovered before her, formless, and yet, it almost seemed to take the form of an Alicorn. Chrysi could swear that she could just make out wings and a tail, maybe even a flowing mane. The mist appeared to be the colors of the night sky, yet not any color that Chrysi could actually name. It had no face, and no body, and be that as it may, Chrysi couldn’t help but feel like the entity was rolling its eyes at her as she stared intensely at it.

“No, I am not.”

“Oh Lulu, must you always be so impatient?”

Chrysi felt the metal that composed her flesh crawl. The words had come from behind her, and were warm. Extremely warm, almost unbearably so. Somehow, she felt the presence of wings enveloping her in a loving embrace. It was comfortable, at first. But it soon became almost horrifying how affectionate the embrace felt. As though she were being smothered, strangling her with the sheer feeling of gentleness.

What’s more, she knew that voice. That sickly gentle, caring voice. That voice belonged to the being she had fought many times in her past life, and though she had won their encounters, she managed to damage her not once. She shivered and forced herself to turn around, whispering in fear as she did so.

“Celestia?”

What she saw, however, was not the Royal Princess, but a formless and colorless bright light. No, not colorless. Just beyond the brightness, Chrysi’s receptors could just make out all the colors of the known spectrum converging into the colorless brightness. It was truly overwhelming, and Chrysi could feel her motherboard smoking as it tried to process what it was she was seeing.

Almost as if it could sense this, the brightness seemed to coalesce, condensing down into a more compact form, that resembled a rather tall alicorn. The mane and tail were visible and seemed almost to have the colors of an aurora. It was hard for Chrysi to tell for sure, as her receptors went haywire from the brightness of the light filling them. However, the face was blank and lacked any defining features. And yet, Chrysi could have sworn it was staring intensely at her, watching her every movement. She balked as it spoke in that overwhelmingly gentle tone once more, raising a hoof to gesture at itself as it did so.

“I am that is, that was, that will be.”

“You waste your precious breath on that one, sister.”

The silence was deafening as Chrysi watched the white Alicorn cock its head, as though considering something. Though it had no visible face, Chrysi could feel it staring down at her as it towered above. As Chrysi silently gazed back sheepishly, she felt somewhat embarrassed as though she had disappointed her own mother. Though oddly enough, that feeling came not from the being in front of her, but rather behind her. Chrysi watched the entity of light slowly raise its head as though peering behind her.

“Isn’t Chrysalis one of your creations though, Lulu?”

Chrysi’s processor was overclocking past the breaking point as she tried to make sense of everything. Who was Chrysalis? She was certain she had never heard that name before. Her name was Chrysi. Always had been. After all, that’s what her moms had named her. She was sure of that.

“Yes, Tia. She is.”

Chrysi flinched. She had felt a sudden horrible stinging pain in her hindquarters. For a moment, she felt like she had been struck, but then she realized that was impossible. Her flesh was made of metal, she shouldn’t feel anything, and yet the pain was soon radiating throughout her very being, piercing her core. Chrysi twitched in agony as the pain seemed to infect her very motherboard, filling her memory banks with horrifyingly traumatic images. Images she neither knew nor recognized.

“I do not understand dear sister, what about this one has you so riled?”

The gentle warmth of the words from the entity before Chrysi washed over her once more, alleviating the pain almost instantaneously. Chrysi breathed a sigh of relief, just moments before she found her body swung around, to face the mist once more. But it wasn’t mist that greeted her this time.

Chrysi’s receptors were glitching out. They had to be, for before her now stood a black Alicorn. But not black in color, black as in the absence of color; the absence of anything. Within the outline of the Alicorn standing there, was an empty space, a complete void, in reality, creating the Alicorn's body.

It stood two-thirds the height of the white Alicorn behind Chrysi and like its counterpart, possessed no eyes or defining features. That is, besides a mane and tail that seemed to contain swirling galaxies within a spacial area. Chrysi watched in complete awe as a comet soared out of sight as it left the tail, only to reappear moments later within the mane. Chrysi shuddered. What exactly were these beings, and what did they want with her?

The black Alicorn spoke, and once more Chrysi was stricken with pain of an unimaginable caliber.

“Because she’s closed her eyes, Tia.”

Chrysi found herself frozen in place as the entity placed its featureless face close to her own. Chrysi's receptors flickered and glitched out as the Alicorn seemed to stare directly into them. Though it had no visible eyes, Chrysi could feel it peer into her own. And what it said next made a shiver run down her metallic spine.

"And after an eternity of waiting, I have tired of waiting for her to open them."

Chapter 27: Processing Reality- Part 2

Chrysi stared at her surroundings, completely at a loss for words. It happened so fast. One moment she had been staring at the world around her, frozen in time. And the next, cracks had begun radiating out from her position.

At first, they had been on the ground, spider webbing across it, as though the very soil were made of glass. But as Chrysi watched in a mixture of abject horror and awe, the cracks had started fracturing the very air around her. At first, they were thin; long and spindly, hairline cracks snaking across the sky. And then they grew wider and wider still, glowing brightly as the sky fragmented; pieces of it falling down to the ground.

Chrysi had watched the air fragment into a hundred irregular sized shards, and then thousands, tens of thousands, millions of fragmented pieces. And in each of those pieces she saw herself reflected back. But it was not her reflection. No, it was…Is that…

“Look, I know we go way back, but you can’t be serious, Chrysalis.”

“It’s the only way to protect her, Shining.”

Standing just outside the castle walls, a Changeling mare and a white Unicorn with blue mane and tail conversed in low tones. The Unicorn was a stallion by the name of Shining Armor, his once pure white fur matted with a rusted, dried crimson. His mane and tail were mussed, the armor he wore was corroded, and oxidized by some form of acid. The hooded expression in his eyes, his missing eye, and a long scar running down his face, the results of The Great Purge.

Chrysalis, meanwhile, stood a head taller than the stallion. Her body was jet black, her mane and tail, a brilliant teal gossamer weave. Her normally shining seafoam green eyes were haunted, as she sullenly pulled a small container from a saddlebag on her back, using levitation magic. The box flicked open; a small, slender cylinder of ash levitated out from amidst the others in it. Chrysalis sighed as she used her magic to ignite the tip of it, inhaling heavily before exhaling a plume of smoke.

“By the goddesses, these things will be the death of me. Celestia’s on her way, Shining.”

Shining Armor stared at her through the melted hole in his helmet, the look on his face depicting pure terror.

“What makes you think Celestia’s on her way?”

The cylinder of ash fell from Chrysalis’s muzzle, and she ground it out with a hoof before her horn began glowing an acidic green; Changeling magic. The glow spread from her horn, covering her body, for a moment before fading away. Shining Armor stared at her in shock.

Her jet black hide was withered, almost rotting away. Her mane and tail were completely gone, while her flank and face appeared to have been branded by a searing hot flame; charred and brittle bones showing through the holes in her hide, partially exposing her vital organs.

He whispered in horror.

“Void magic.”

Chrysalis laughed, a haunting hallowed laugh.

“Pretty, aren’t I?”

Shining was startled by this transformation.

“What? How?”

“Luna had heard about her beloved niece finding a partner, and decided to meet them face-to-”

Chrysalis raised her feeble foreleg to place the rotted hoof against her disfigured face before finishing.

“Face. And so last night, while Cadance and I went for a midnight stroll, The Lunar Princess paid us a visit.”

Shining was dumbfounded, as he stammered.

“B-but your disguise-”

Chrysalis shook her head.

“Those Alicorns are like bloodhounds. I can change my appearance, but I cannot hide my scent, and the instant she saw me, she knew. And what was worse, she knew that I knew she knew, even going so far as to tell me to drop my disguise. And when I did, well-”

Chrysalis gestured at her withered, rotted form and gave a derisive snort.

“As you can see, she wasn’t impressed to see the last Changeling courting her niece. Afterward, she proceeded to tell me that I should run, because she would not be killing me, preferring to leave me for Celestia. And that this was nothing compared to what Celestia would be doing to me when she caught me.”

Shining stood in silence just watching as Chrysalis’s Changeling magic morphed and transformed her flesh to give the illusion of her full healed body once more. Sighing, Chrysalis swiftly lit up another ash-filled cylinder, lamenting.

“And who could blame her, after my mother tried to usurp her throne. Well, it doesn’t matter. Come tomorrow, the Changelings will be no more.”

Shining Armor looked startled.

“What are you saying?”

Chrysalis just silently stared into his eyes for a moment before opening her mouth to respond.

“Do you remember, standing flank to flank, surrounded by Changelings as we rushed to take back Canterlot’s throne?”

“Y-yeah but-”

“Or that time you discovered I was a Changeling that had joined the Canterlot Militia?”

“Of course I remember. Chrysalis, what are you trying to say?”

Chrysalis smiled brightly, her eyes sparkling as tears welled within them. Her horn started to glow with the acidic green of Changeling magic, lightly at first before glowing brighter and brighter still.

“I want you to know, I regret none of that, Captain. Take care of my daughter for me, alright?”

A bright flash filled Shining’s vision and when it cleared, he was alone and looking around in confusion.

“What was I doing? Oh, right! I have to get back to Cadance. We still have more to plan for our wedding for tomorrow.”

With that he rushed off, while high up on the hill, Chrysalis stood watching him go, the tears flowing freely down her muzzle. She stood there, gazing off into the distance for a moment before slowly turning and walking down the hill.

What was that? It was over in a flash, the images appearing to play in her mind in a single second. Chrysi was startled by the sudden vision and instinctively backed up, right into something hard. Whirling around she was immediately bombarded by another image of some world that she never knew.

“Chrysalis, thou stands accused of Treason to the Crown of Equestria. On the grounds of having caused the disappearance of Princess Dashie, Princess of Loyalty, Daughter of Empress Celestia, and Wife of Princess Rarity. Thou then proceeded to use thine Changeling Magic to attempt to take her place and steal her identity. Furthermore-”

Chrysalis ignored the crier as he read off a list of her many offenses. Instead, she surveyed the crowd with her eyes as she stood, for all to see, her head just a few hoof’s lengths from a glinting blade of sharpened steel hovering above. Her head was locked in place by a pillory, and an anti-magic ring had been placed upon her horn. She would not be walking away from this one, she thought bitterly.

In the crowd, she watched as the jeers turned into throwing things at her, and yet, she ignored them. They didn’t matter. Her seafoam green eyes were fixed on just one pony.

“- And the complete destruction of the serfs of Ponyville. Has thou anything to say in thine last moments?”

The roaring insults of the crowd of hundreds fell silent as Chrysalis locked eyes with Princess Rarity and smiled wickedly.

“Vivat Regina.”

A gasp arose from the crowd, as with a nod from Rarity the executioner severed the rope with a single swipe of her battle ax; the rope that held the guillotine’s blade at bay. With a sickening thud, Chrysalis’s head tumbled into the waiting basket, the cruel smile forever on her muzzle.

Chrysi screamed and grabbed her head, before gasping in surprise. She slowly felt her head, it was still there. But then what had she just seen? Still sweating, and panting, she looked around frantically. There was no crowd, no guillotine. She could have sworn she had really been there, she even felt it. Had she just imagined it? That’s when she felt a hoof on her shoulder, and Chrysi felt that horrifyingly chilling sensation radiate throughout her metallic chassis once more.

Shivering, and with an unbidden feeling of sudden doom lingering over her, Chrysi slowly turned around to find herself staring into the featureless face of the entity known as Lulu. Chrysi stared up at the Alicorn-like being towering over her as it leaned down as though staring back at her.

“Are you having fun?”

“Wh-what is this? Where are we?”

The entity seemed pensive for a moment, lifting the visage of a forehoof up to what could be considered its chin. After a few seconds, it answered her, its voice cutting like a knife, though not physical pain like before but an unsettling feeling of melancholic depression.

“This is what you could call your hallway of memories.”

Chrysi felt a wave of nausea wash over her, followed by an urge to wretch as Lulu lowered her void-filled hoof and accidentally bumped her body. Her barrel heaved and jerked violently as a crimson stream poured from her muzzle. She twitched uncontrollably as she looked up from the sight of a pool of her innards slowly spreading outwards, to croakily whisper.

“M-memories?”

Chrysi collapsed with a bloodcurdling scream as her functions ceased. Her metallic body oxidized, changing from a gleaming black equine’s form to a sickly orangish-red crusted junk of metal, within an instant.

Lulu stood there watching the spectacle before what sounded like clicking its tongue in disapproval, though there was none to be seen. Its tone dripped with absolute venom, however, its words almost seemed to be of care.

“No, no, my dear child. You are not getting off that easily. Rise.”

At once a flash of sickly blue magic lit up the entire infinity of the space in which it stood, and suddenly a fully repaired, and fully functional mechanical, sparkling jet-black equine stood before it once more.

Frantically, Chrysi looked around as her sensors came online once more.

“Wha-”

“You’ve touched the hoof of greatness, daughter. Now then, let’s continue. Yes, these are your memories, or rather your past lifetimes. As you can see there are many. You’ve been a heroine; you’ve been a villain. You’ve been a lover, and a heartbreaker. Selfish and selfless, you name it, you’ve lived it. Many iterations, many stories, many wonders and frankly my greatest pride. That is…until the last few times.”

Chrysi’s eyes widened in wonder as three glowing shards appeared before her. Unlike the others, these were cracked and seemed to be falling to pieces. They sparked erratically, and the images reflected with each were static filled, fading in and out.

“What are these?”

Lulu seemed to be forlorn as it replied.

“These? These, my child, are your creations.”

Chapter 28- What is Reality?- Part 1

Chrysi tilted her head in confusion as she tried to focus on the images within the three sparking crystals, finding it impossible. Try as she did, the images kept changing, flashing and refused to stay in focus.

“You say I created these?”

Turning to look up at the towering presence of Lulu, Chrysi watched as the entity nodded its featureless head. It spoke, every word cutting Chrysi’s very soul like sharp, penetrating daggers.

“That’s right.”

Chrysi staggered from the almost incomprehensible pain, desperate not to keel over, yet again. She coughed violently as a congealed black ooze seeped from the gaps in her metal plating. Suddenly a swarm of locusts issued from her muzzle as she screamed, suddenly praying for death’s release. But it never came. And as quickly as the malady began, Chrysi found her breathing returning to normal, her wounds completely healed. That’s when she noticed the nearly transparent wings surrounding her, shielding her from the plague that had befallen her. A sickly sweet and patient voice whispered gently.

“Sister, must you be so hard on her?”

Lulu scoffed at the notion and stamped its hoof, causing cracks to appear within reality once more.

“It’s in my nature Tia, forgiveness however, is not. She will answer for what she has done, even if it kills her a million more times, sister. Do not interfere with my teachings again. Or you’ll be next.”

As her corpse once more rose up fully functional, Chrysi shivered as a wave of impending doom washed over her. The air grew thick with an aura of danger and chaos, as Tia spoke in its ever-gentle way, its warmth carrying a sudden, indescribable subtext of malice.

“Oh? Is that a challenge?”

In an instant Lulu replied, with absolutely no hesitation whatsoever, though its voice took on a rather submissive tone.

“Not even in the slightest, sister.”

Instantaneously the weight pressing down on Chrysi dissolved. The air grew noticeably calmer and more relaxed, as the entity known as Tia seemed to chuckle.

“Very good, now then little sister, perhaps you should allow me to explain to her the grievances she has caused us. Though you are more than within your rights to destroy your own creations and resurrect them as you please, we will be here until next eternity before you ever make your point.”

Lulu backed up several spaces as though stricken by the words but nodded its featureless face and mumbled in a just barely audible way.

“You make a fair point, Tia. So be it.”

At once a flash of light emanated from Tia, and all reality just shattered. There was no cracking, no shards remaining; it just broke apart and disappeared; revealing a single statue. The statue was grotesque, depicting the visage of three helpless creatures: a withered centaur with a gaunt face, a small Pegasus filly, and finally, a Changeling mare.

Hovering above it, Chrysi stared at the statue in disbelief. There was no mistaking it, that Changeling was none other than the same Queen of the Changelings Chrysalis, that the Celestial Beings seemed intent on showing her. But what did it mean?

She didn’t have long to ponder this thought, before the soothingly suffocating voice of Tia filled the air.

“Tell me, little one, you don’t recognize this statue, do you?”

Chrysi slowly blinked her metallic eyelids, her retinal scanners analyzing every facet of the odd art piece, her memory banks coming up empty.

“No, I’ve never seen it before.”

With a deep sigh, Tia spoke once more.

“I was afraid of that. Chrysalis, this is you. Not a past you, but the real you. You are currently entombed within that stone, and this is your reality.”

Chrysi shook her head in confusion, this didn’t compute, none of this made sense to her. What exactly did the entity mean by her reality? As if reading her mind Tia spoke up, its voice though gentle as always, seemed to hold a deep sadness within it.

“Reality is rarely what we desire, and so it is only natural to imagine how things could be. Everycreature does it from time to time. Free will is such a wondrous gift, from us unto you. And all are free to have such flights of fancy, as it were.”

Tia lifted its hoof and brought it crashing down onto the nothingness of the void, and it suddenly filled in, the statue vanishing from sight. Chrysi looked around. She was on a hilltop, watching a veritable army of Ponies, and various other creatures charging down it towards three creatures.

Chrysi’s eyes grew wide as she recognized those creatures. Only they looked a bit different. The filly Pegasus had been transformed into a well-tone Alicorn, her horn crackling with chaos magic. The Centaur was muscular, youthful and was letting out a raging roar towards the oncomers. And then there was Chrysalis.

She was a cross between an Alicorn and a Changeling Hive Queen; her laughter, wicked as it echoed throughout the rolling hills. She charged up her magic into a beam of utter destruction, preparing to fire. Tia’s voice cut across the ensuing battle.

“You, joined by Cozy Glow, and Tirek, declared war on Equestria. It was a mostly one-sided battle, that is until friendship prevailed and in the midst of sheer defeat seven stood against you. Rallying the creatures of Equestria, those seven harnessed the Elements of Harmony within and like Discord before you, turned you three to stone, ending the conflict decisively.”

Everything vanished, revealing just the statue once more.

“And so there you sit, currently entombed within.”

Chrysi tried to piece together what she was being told, voicing her thoughts out loud.

“But if I’m there, then why am I here? And shouldn’t I be dead encased in stone?”

“Were that the end of your story, we simply would have filed it away, another chapter in the long history of your existence. I can assure you, you are very much alive, little one. And this is currently happening, even as we speak.”

Chrysi stared in silence as the void around the statue began to fill itself in, revealing a room of hewn stone, with a floor of polished marble, and sconces lining the walls adorned with gold, silver and flames of bright purple. And soon after, several creatures appeared standing by the statue.

One was a rather large Dragoness, her orange scales glinting in the torch light. She had vibrant magenta hair, a remnant of her younger years. Her wings were nearly as wide as a full grown Alicorn’s, spanning over five feet unfurled.

Next to her stood a full-grown Yak, with a dark brown coat of thick wooly hair. Behind her ear sat a pink satin ribbon, threadbare and timeworn, a relic once given as a gift. She was quite large, with ever-sparkling olive-green irises. And at that moment she was exchanging a glance with a chiffon colored Earthpony stallion beside her.

He stood a half of a hoof shorter than the Yak he was gingerly nuzzling. His mane, from the trim to the color, resembled a patch of seaweed. His flank boasted a Cutie Mark of three little sea turtles, and his demeanor was calm, as though he easily went with the ebb and flow of any situation.

Just to his right stood an adult, blue-feathered Griffon male, clad in golden armor worn by the Royal Guard of Canterlot. In his talon he clutched a spear that Chrysi could almost swear was forged of actual sunlight. It shone so bright in the room, as he wearily set the haft onto the stone floor, as though having just completed some form of guard duty. However, almost the instant he gave a tired sigh, next to him a fully grown mare hippogriff energetically grabbed him into an intimate embrace.

She was taller than the griffon, her feathers a creamy pink, though her mane was a mixture of silver and grey. She laughed as she hugged him, her laughter was loud and full of excitement. Locking eyes with him, she gently tapped the golden bracelet she wore on her talon to the one he wore around his. The two shared a momentary look, before he too broke into a smile.

While Chrysi didn’t recognize any of them, there was one face that she definitely knew. There, standing next to the statue stood a full-grown Alicorn mare. She stood half as tall as the Dragoness and wore a beautifully forged crown of gold in the middle of which rested a faceted amethyst. Her fur was lavender, her mane and tail were a rich indigo. Her eyes were a shining amethyst, and held the patience once embodied by her teacher years before her.

Mom?
Chrysi swallowed hard, there could be no mistaking it, this was definitely Twilight Sparkle, but not how Chrysi knew her. Her flesh wasn’t metal, and she was smiling not of malice, but almost lovingly. It felt wrong, almost alien to Chrysi; this wasn’t her mother, at least not the one she had known. Chrysi felt nauseous, Twilight wasn’t threatening to maim or destroy somepony. The very thought of it made her metal skin crawl. Twilight began to speak.

“Thank you for coming on such short notice. As you know, Rainbow Dash was laid to rest beside the others last week. As the last living member of the original Elements of Harmony, the time has come to share the secret we have held for the past 35 years. I do ask, however, that you wait patiently for a few minutes as we wait for the others to arrive.”

“You won’t have to wait long, Princess Twi.”

All heads turned towards the entrance way, where an Earthpony mare stood beside an alabaster white furred Unicorn and an orange Pegasus in a flight suit. The Earthpony had slightly dingy auburn mane and tail, the mane flowing out from beneath a tattered, old Stetson hat. Her eyes were a vibrant orange, and her flank boasted a crusader's shield with an apple inside it.

The Unicorn wore her silky pink mane and tail coiffed in the style of her late sister, a designer dress of ruby hemmed with the finest silk, and sparkling ruby earrings. She carried an air of importance, and just behind her, holding a tablet, was a mare with a bright red stone around her neck. Without so much as turning around, the Unicorn spoke to this mare.

“Adagio, darling, reschedule all my appointments and cancel all my calls. If any creature asks, I’m in a meeting.”

The mare cowled her head in a relatively submissive bow replying.

“Very good, Mrs. Belle.”

Reaching up a hoof, Adagio spoke softly into the headset she wore. Her voice, though condescending, carried tones of an almost seductive nature.

“What’s the status of the fashion show, Aria? I see. You tell them that unless they want a very angry Wendigo knocking down their door, they will have that stage ready for Mrs. Belle on time. Make it happen, no excuses. Hm? Yes, yes, love you too. Got to go…Sonata, talk to me, girl. How are we on the catering? No, that is not nearly good enough, I want five hundred tacos for that buffet, do you hear me? No, cost is of no concern to me, I’ll personally pay you double. Yes, from my own purse. Make it happen or else.”

While Adagio chatted away on the headset, the orange Pegasus next to her whispered to Sweetie Belle.

“Isn’t she a bit intense to be a secretary?”

Sweetie Belle chuckled and whispered back.

“She is very loyal, something I thought you of all Ponies would appreciate Scootaloo.”

Scootaloo stood there in silence for just a second. Her tattered flight suit was torn and shredded from much use, the Pegasus mare’s underdeveloped wings jutting from within. On the flank, a faded marking of a rainbow-hued lightning bolt rested; dull and lifeless from many years of use.

The silence was broken as Scootaloo sniffed, slowly at first, before her eyes welled with tears. Sweetie Belle’s face fell as she grabbed Scootaloo in a loving embrace, whispering frantically.

“Shh, Shh, I didn’t mean it like that, Scootaloo. She's with my sister now, probably being forced into a dress against her will as we speak.”

“An’ y’all can’t forget mah sis is probably snickering away in the corner, laughin’ at how frou-frou she looks, while Rarity shoots her a death glare.”

Both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle turned to see the yellow Earthpony approaching them. Her eyes twinkled as she smiled softly back at the two. Scootaloo chuckled.

“Yeah, that sounds-

Scootaloo sniffed as she gazed at the old stetson on the Earthpony’s head.

“- About right, thanks Applebloom.”

Applebloom silently reached up and brushed a hoof lightly against the brim of her hat, before giving a heavy sigh and lowering her hoof once more.

“We miss ‘em too, Scootaloo. Ya ain’t alone, y’know.”

Chrysi stared down at the scene. Watching as Scootaloo nuzzled both Applebloom and Sweetie Belle, Chrysi felt an intense bitterness; yet had no idea why. A feeling of momentary spite, that crawled, just beneath her metallic plating. Like an itch she couldn’t scratch. Something about this heartwarming scene caused her to slowly loathe everything. She hated herself. She hated them. It rose within her, slowly at first and then faster and faster, an animosity like she had never felt. It flowed throughout her processor, seizing hold of her registry. Error after error started popping up within her display. She felt like she would short-circuit as her emotions took control, and unable to withstand it any longer, she momentarily forgot her situation and turned to roar at the two beings behind her.

“Why am I here? What did I do? I was enjoying my meager life on Exuus, I didn’t hurt anyone. Okay well I did, but it’s not like they could die or anything. I didn’t harm anyone or cause anything. Why make me suffer? This isn’t fair!”

“Isn’t it?”

Chrysi fell silent as the suddenly booming voice of Tia echoed in her mind. To her surprise, the two entities seemed to grow in size; towering over her as Tia spoke in its gratingly patient tone.

“Who is it you cry out for when things go wrong? Us. We, who created you. And since we created you, it is clearly our fault what happens to you, right? It’s not that you caused your issue, no, it’s that the reality which we painstakingly craft with our hooves is completely stacked against you. You who expect everything to be wonderful because we are watching, you who get hurt from your own actions and curse our existence.”

Chrysi was at a loss for words, as Tia continued its lament.

“But clearly it isn’t fair of us to do the same? We gave you the will to choose your own path. To perform your own actions and in return face the consequences that came with them. Who was it that denied our reality to create her own through delusions of grandeur? You. Who was it that caused time to jumble up and become entangled by her desires? You. Yes, Chrysalis, it is fair. You caused this, and you will fix it. Now, stay silent and observe-”

The air grew colder than even the arctic of Equus, turning the coolant in Chrysi’s body to solid ice as Tia added.

“Or I will terminate your very existence, here and now.”

Chrysi stood, frozen in terror as much to her surprise, she watched Lulu move towards Tia. Gently, almost lovingly, the destructive entity rubbed its featureless head against Tia’s assumed neck, the latter murmuring.

“Lulu...”

Lulu continued on, whispering solemnly.

“Tia, no.”

Suddenly, the air grew considerably warmer and comforting, surrounding Chrysi and melting the ice that held her heart captive. Tia turned towards Chrysi, as Lulu lowered its expressionless face to seemingly lock eyes with her, though Lulu had none. It spoke.

“Watch and listen, you will understand.”

Chrysi suddenly found herself staring directly at the statue once again, as Twilight spread her wings.

“For decades, Equestria has flourished under our hard work. Together, we have united the various cultures of our land. One by one, our greatest foes-”

Twilight glanced pointedly at Adagio, who flinched slightly, before continuing.

“Have become invaluable contributors to the well-being of our society. From the mighty Wendigos to the Tartarus-born Sombra, each has found their place and flourished. Just the other day, Princess Flurry Heart wrote me a letter stating how wonderful having Sombra as an advisor has been. And you, Adagio, and your sisters, have found your niche as well. Sweetie Belle raves over your dedication. One by one, every dragon, every griffon, every Changeling has found their way, that is, every creature but these three.”

Pausing, Twilight gestured towards the statue with a wing while looking rather downcast.

“These three, that we gave up on, our greatest failure. No one remembers them, or what they did. No one but me, and I forgave them a long time ago. And yet, here they remain.”

As she spoke, Twilight’s voice cracked, and a grimace of self-loathing appeared on her face. Taking a deep breath, she raised her gaze once more to those present.

“But I refuse to believe that’s the end for them, though. But I can’t do it alone, I need your help.”

Low murmuring filled the stone chamber, as all present were filled with muffled confusion. Them? What could they do that Princess Twilight, an Alicorn could not? As they whispered and conversed, Twilight stood silently observing them. But it wasn’t just her, Chrysi watched on with curiosity as well.

“Us help? Who are we helping exactly?”

Spreading her wings, Twilight brought the room to order as a hush fell over every creature present. As the silence fell, she folded her wings once more and began to speak, yet again.

“Listen to me every creature, for it is very important. You’ve forgotten them. Every creature has…because I made sure of it.”

At once, a loud gasp filled the air. Twilight did what?

“That’s right. 35 years ago, this very day, these three were turned to stone, or so it was believed. The girls and I held a conference, and we deemed it best that everything be forgotten. That way when the time was right, they could rejoin our world with a clean slate. The truth is, this statue is nothing but an illusion, and these three are frozen in time, in a stasis. They will never age and thanks to my enchantment, until they decide to rejoin Equestria as citizens, not super villains, they will remain so.”

Turning to look at the statue, Tears pooled at the corner of Twilight’s eyes. She turned away and seemed to glance off in the distance for a moment. Chrysi gasped as Twilight seemingly locked eyes with her, though it was over in a flash. What just happened? Twilight turned swiftly to the onlookers once more.

“Each of you has found your way in this world. Please, I ask you to share your ventures with them. Let them know they can co-exist with the rest of Equestria, give them the encouragement they need to set them free. The strength they need-”

Once again, Twilight turned her head and locked eyes with Chrysi before smiling, that same kindred smile once worn by her mentor before her.

“To return to this plane of existence.”

Chapter 29- What is Reality?- Part 2

Chrysi’s eyes stared into Twilight’s own. Were she not mechanized, Chrysi would be sweating buckets. She whispered in a sudden panic as she moved to the side, only for Twilight’s eyes to follow her.

“Can she see me?”

“No.”

From behind Chrysi, Lulu’s voice sounded.

“She cannot, though Alicorns are in tune with magic to a higher degree than others. She can sense our magic, but cannot pinpoint the exact source, just that she should be on alert for any potential threats.”

Chrysi tilted her head, as Twilight stared straight at her, or rather her position.

“I don’t get it, if she can sense you, surely she can feel that she wouldn’t stand a chance.”

Both Lulu and Tia chuckled at this, the elder of the entities speaking softly.

“She is well aware that our magic dwarfs her own, but see how she is tensing her hooves? She’s prepared to fight to the last if anything should happen.”

“But why would she risk herself in such a manner? Just to protect…those that…cannot. No way…”

Tia leaned down and whispered.

“Almost something a mother would do, isn’t that right?”

Chrysi’s processor skipped a frame as her circuits began to power up. She screamed as a deluge of information flooded her neural receptors. Images and scenes of a forgotten life filled her memory banks, her eyes growing wide and wider still as the pieces fell into place.

“No, it can’t be!”

“That Applejack, nopony is that honest, I’ll bet she is secretly a master swindler…I have no doubt Rarity’s generosity is merely surface level, you can’t tell me she wouldn’t slide a poisoned blade twixt my ribs in an instant… I’m telling you, Cozy, Pinkie Pie is a serial killer, no sane Pony wears a smile like that. Just be careful of her darker half, that’s all I’m saying… Tirek avoid Discord, Fluttershy is not to be messed with; she gets angry and it’s like a wild animal is on the loose. Everycreature says she’s too timid, but it’s always the quiet ones…Twilight? What about her, Grogar? I suppose one thing I could give her credit for is being a very protective mother to her friends and their antics…Starlight is always so commanding, why isn’t she a princess? ...I hate these emotions, I failed my hive, I failed my cause, I’m just a failure. If I were a machine…

Chrysi wordless mouthed.

“I wouldn’t feel pain.”

Suddenly, Chrysi HUD lit up as a file appeared on her desktop: Escape.EXE. Her eyes widened as the application was launched. The world around her started to fade away and everything changed to 1’s and 0’s.

Lulu shouted out as darkness engulfed Chrysi.

“Tia, she’s doing it again!”

And then, Chrysi was gone.

From all directions, the darkness radiated the same 1’s and 0’s, slowly the numbers faded away and left behind an entirely familiar scene. Before her stood a mechanized version of Twilight. Chrysi’s heart caught in her throat as it pounded away. This can’t be happening, she thought bitterly.

“You are not the Chrysalis from this world, are you? From what I can see, you are a completely organic, non-metallic life form. The saline falling from your eyes onto my alchemical plating tells me you have been through much, and though I am glad you found solace in seeing Twilight again, I'm sorry to inform you; I’m not the Twilight you are looking for…”

Chrysi wasn’t listening as she just stared in disbelief. Had all this been a lie? A trick of her mind to convince herself she wasn’t hurting?

“Not an easy pill to swallow, is it my daughter?”

Suddenly beside her stood Lulu, the featureless entity sounding somber as it gestured to Twilight, who continued to talk as though nothing happened.

Chrysi just watched as Starlight entered the canvas tent, after talking to Twilight. She looked at Chrysi.

“Don’t. Give. Me. A. Reason.”

It was all the same, just as it was when she had arrived in Exuus. And it wasn’t even real. Nothing more than a simulation she was running in her mind. Chrysi began to sob.

I-it’s not even real! None of it. The love, the happiness, it was all just in my own head! How could I have been so-”

The world around her turned dark once more as everything changed into countless 1’s and 0’s. And then they too, were gone.

“-Stupid.”

Chrysi gasped. Before her, was her. But not her. An oozing dripping version of her. And its disgusting maw was opened wide, connected with strands of revolting black ooze, in a wide mocking smile. It sneered at her.

“What’s wrong Chrysssi?”

From the darkness of the void, chains shot out; oozing, dripping chains made of the same putrid sludge as the version of Chrysalis in front of her. As the acrid scent of rotting flesh reached her nostrils, manacles latched onto her hooves holding her in place. All the while, Chrysalis mocked the imprisoned Chrysi.

“Isn’t this what youuuu wanted?”

Chrysi coughed and sputtered as the putrid smell filled her nostrils, threatening to suffocate her.

“Wh-who are you?”

Swirling around her, as though made completely of slime, the globulous Chrysalis stared into her eyes, it’s own rotted, and sickly green. It spoke matter-of-factly, in a stern voice.

“An excuse.”

“Wait, what?”

The Chrysalis before Chrysi pulled back and laughed, gesturing playfully at her as it bubbled.

“Oh,but it’s noooot your fault, little Chryssssi, after all-”

It grinned knowingly, its mouth stretching to reveal a grotesque display of decaying fangs.

“Nothing ever issss, is it?”

Tia and Lulu stood still, neither moving nor speaking, between the two lay the powered-down form of Chrysi; having crashed to the ground from the sudden surge of information. Neither Tia nor Lulu seemed bothered by this development. Instead, both were observing what was happening in the depths of Canterlot’s Castle, as the giant metal doors suddenly swung open, and an ashen gray furred hoof passed through the threshold. Twilight turned her attention to the newcomer, as a stallion stepped into the room, dressed in full regalia.

He stood one-third the height of the Alicorn princess, though his gait and stance as he came to a halt suggested a noble upbringing. His mane and tail were silken, jet black and slicked back, with every hair in place. Perhaps most notable, however, were the sharpened fangs residing in his steely smile, as well as the gaze of his fiery red eyes, that burned with the fires of Tartarus, itself.

Twilight gave a gentle nod as he gave a respectful glance towards her.

“Sombra.”

He just appeared amused for a moment before flashing his fang-filled smile and snickering slightly, before turning from her without a word. His horn glowed with a dark red magic, causing a trumpet to levitate from his side to his mouth. Giving it a quick blow in double succession, he addressed the entire room in a flamboyantly jovial voice.

“Announcing the arrival of her highness, Princess Flurry Heart of the Crystal Empire!”

A Pink Alicorn stepped delicately into the room; her wings folded against her sides. From the snout to the tip of her tail, she resembled her mother. It was so easy to mistake her for her mother, Cadence. That is, but for a pair of envious green irises, unlike her mother’s Amethyst ones.

She stood as tall as Twilight if only shorter by a single hoof-length. Her mane and tail were a series of cotton candy pink, blueberry blue and a much lighter shade of violet flowing like ribboned silk in a wavy, almost fluid motion. On her flank rested a cutie mark of a beveled heart made of translucent crystal.

As she slowly walked past all present, they lowered their heads in a respectful bow. Noticing Adagio sneaking a glance at her, Flurry Heart instinctively lifted a hoof to the amulet she wore around her neck, the remnants of the legendary Crystal Heart pulsing slowly within. Adagio looked ashamed as she hurriedly averted her eyes from Flurry Heart, only to find the Princess had used a single wingtip to raise Adagio’s muzzle, forcing the Wendigo to lock eyes with her.

For a moment time was frozen as the two stared icily at each other, before Flurry Heart gave a loving smile and wrapped her wings around Adagio in a gentle, yet warm embrace. While encased within the feathery down, Adagio teared up as she heard a soft whisper.

“It’s in the past, you have my forgiveness. Let’s move forward…Adagio.”

Unclasping her wings, Flurry Heart turned towards Twilight and continued walking forward as behind her tears streamed down Adagio’s face in silence; years of worry and stress finally bubbling to the surface of the normally unshakable Wendigo.

Lulu let out a frustrated growl. Its voice carried an almost anxious tone as it gestured to the robotic corpse.

“How much longer, sister?”

Tia’s tone was as patient as ever, as it replied.

“Oh, sister. She will return when she is ready, for right now she is fighting a battle where we cannot follow, against an enemy that we cannot fight. It will take as long as it does. However-”

Tia fell silent and gestured at Flurry Heart, who now stood before Twilight, now glaring coldly at the Alicorn Princess, before concluding.

“Perhaps she won’t have to do it alone, after all.”

Flurry Heart silently stared at Twilight, her vibrant green eyes flashing with the lightning of a cold fury. Twilight stood there, staring back for a moment, watching the storm behind the eyes of Flurry Heart, before averting her eyes in shame. Twilight spoke just one word.

“When?”

Flurry’s voice was soft and gentle, though her eyes told another story.

“Dad told me everything, before he-”

Flurry Heart’s voice broke as she choked up, tears in her eyes. Swallowing hard, she took a moment to compose herself.

“Before he left to join mom, Aunt Twilight.”

Twilight kept her eyes averted as she sighed heavily.

“Flurry, we only did it to protect you. She only did it to protect you.”

“I know. I just- I just wanted some closure, can I- would you mind if I had some time alone with her?”

Twilight nodded slowly.

“Of course, and I’m sorry for not telling you sooner.”

As Twilight ushered everycreature out of the room, Flurry Heart slowly approached the statue, quietly placing her forehoof on the visage of Chrysalis, her eyes closing for a moment before taking a deep breath and speaking to the Ex-Changeling Queen.

“Hi-”

She froze, swallowing hard before uttering the hardest word of her life.

“Mom.”

Chapter 31- Parental Directory

In the fabled Crystal Castle of the Crystal Empire, she rolled over in bed. Though no pony herself, she had been comfortably asleep in the luxurious royal bed chambers. She blinked slowly and looked at the pillow next to her, noticing the spot empty, but for a scrap of parchment and the hastily scrawled message upon it.

Still half asleep, she reached out a pearly, white-furred hoof towards it. Grasping it between her hooves she yawned loudly, the sound resembling that of a dragon’s cry. Sitting up in the bed, her long, fluffy auburn red mane, bounced and swayed with the sudden motion, while her brilliant golden irises intensely scanned the note:

I’ll be back soon; I can’t put this off any longer.

-Your Boo

The ghost of a smile flitted across her lips. About time. Pulling back the covers, she shuddered as her hind hooves touched the cold stone floor, before rising to all fours.

She stood as tall as a full-grown Alicorn, if only a hair shorter. Her mane and tail were a burnished auburn, bouncing with every movement, as she yawned again leaning down and stretching her frame. On her back olive-green dragon scales shone and danced in the light from the chandelier above as her back made a gentle cracking sound.

Making her way over to the wardrobe, she flung open the door, and began to look through it. Using a light green magic she moved various outfits around, her twisted, mahogany colored horn sparkling with energy.

At once a wave of nausea washed over her, causing her to fall on her flank as the room spun around her. Ungh! Easy mama. Slowly now. Slowly, she tried to rise to her hooves, only to fall back into a sitting position. Her bulging barrel was just too heavy. After trying and failing numerous times to rise, the mare heavily sighed before causing her horn to glow a bright green.

Her horn had been glowing for less than ten seconds before the door blasted wide open to reveal a midwife Unicorn in a nurses outfit with a rather stern look on her face. Quickly surveying the room, her gaze fell upon her Royal Highness hunched over on the floor. Swiftly she walked over to her all while commenting.

“No, no, no, no Milady, this will not do at all. You are supposed to be resting.”

The Kirin on the floor turned to look at her, sheepishly dragging her hoof.

“But Flurry Heart needs-”

The midwife shook her head sternly, as her levitation magic surrounded the Kirin, addressing her respectfully but severely.

“No, what Princess Flurry needs from you, Mrs. Blaze is for you to get some rest and relaxation. You need to take it easy and store up your energy. You carry the Empire’s future after all.”

While Autumn Blaze protested profusely, the midwife was hearing none of it as she tucked her back into bed. She smiled.

“There we go, now why don’t we get you something to eat?”

“I’m not-”

Autumn’s stomach growled loudly as the midwife stifled a laugh. Grumbling, Autumn muttered sullenly.

“Alright, one salad…or three, and 14 pickles. And 6 ears of steamed corn.”

The midwife nodded, writing everything down on a pad.

“Very good, anything else?”

Autumn suddenly bolted upright and grabbed her frock, exclaiming loudly.

“One scoop of mustard-flavored ice cream with licorice jelly beans!”

Chuckling lightly, the midwife nodded as though she were used to such outbursts. Gently tucking in the corners of her bedspread, the midwife smiled brightly.

“Of course, Milady, now you just get some rest, I’ll be right back with your food.”

Autumn nestled down into the sheets, feeling the sweet, inviting coolness of the pillow. Her eyes slowly flickered before closing and she drifted off to dreamland, her mind replaying a memory from just over ten months ago.

Flurry Heart raced into the royal chambers, flinging herself onto the bed and burying her face in her pillow. She wanted to scream, she wanted to cry, but as she lay there face down in the soft feathery down, she could only manage a choked sob.

Her father was gone. Less than an hour had passed since Shining Armor, Flurry Heart’s last living parental figure, passed on from a previously undiagnosed heart defect. According to the doctors, Shining had carried the burden of a broken heart from Cadance’s death. The stress built up over time and eventually overcame the stalwart stallion leading to his demise.

Flurry’s ears perked up at the distinct sound of cloven hooves behind her. Eyes stinging from the saltiness of tears, she closed them tightly as she swung around and threw her fore hooves around Autumn Blaze, sobbing into her shoulder.

Autumn held her tightly and whispered to her.

“There, there. Let it out, boo.”

Several tear-filled moments had passed before Flurry Heart blurted out.

“I’m sorry I just don’t know how to process this right now!”

Autumn nodded and gently nuzzled her.

“It’s alright, boo. Losing a family member is never easy.”

Flurry winced and shook her head, as Autumn gingerly wiped her tears with a hoof.

“Come on, boo. Give me a brave little smile, don’t make me tickle you.”

Flurry Heart twitched and giggled as Autumn expertly ran her hooves down her side. Autumn chuckled.

“There we go. Now talk to me, boo. Let me share your pain.”

Flurry sat down on the edge of the bed and put her head in her hooves, shaking slightly.

“Where do I begin?”

She took a deep breath before looking her wife in the eyes.

“Autumn, I’m not an Alicorn.”

Autumn stared at her, blinking.

“What?”

“Well not entirely, you see…”

Autumn sat and listened to Flurry Heart as she told her everything Shining had divulged in his dying breaths. Every now and then, the Kirin had to console her wife, as Flurry broke into furious tears in regular intervals until the entire story had been told.

Autumn was silent in thought for a while, while Flurry Heart stared at her pleadingly, waiting for her to say something. Anything.

“So you’re saying in order to sneak around, this Chrysalis assumed Shining’s appearance. And Upon impregnating your mom, she realized how dangerous it would be for Cadance, the niece of Princess Celestia, to be caught fornicating with a Changeling. Which then led to the two racing to Twilight’s door and ended up with all four colluding to stage the attack on Canterlot by the Changelings to conceal your existence? Am I understanding this right?”

The words were spoken with a gentle, soft tone. Flurry Heart was surprised, in Autumn’s voice there was no judgment, just curiosity. Flurry nodded.

“That’s what dad said. Though I don’t remember any creature named Chrysalis taking part in that attack when I learned about it in school.”

Autumn placed a hoof to her chin in thought. In order to prove her desire to wed Flurry she had read the history of the Royal Family of Equestria, she knew of the failed insurrection, but the name didn’t ring a bell.

“Me neither, but your father wasn’t known for lying. Hm.”

After another moment, she clapped her hooves together and smiled.

“Well, that does explain some things. Whatever the case it would seem that whomever this Chrysalis is, is the reason why you’re here with me. And I must say, the apple sure didn’t fall far from that tree, did it?”

Flurry’s face took on a puzzled expression.

“Huh?”

Autumn just giggled.

“Here, come with me, there’s something I want to show you.”

“Wh-”

“Oh just come.”

With that, Autumn took hold of Flurry’s hoof and led her towards the bathroom, much to the Princess’s confusion. That is until she saw Autumn point at something on the counter. It was a thin white device, a pregnancy test. And it displayed two fresh thin pink lines. Flurry’s eyes grew wide with surprise, whirling around to see her wife crow triumphantly with the biggest smile on her muzzle.

“You’re going to be a mother, Boo.”

Chapter 32- Image Recovery

One Day Ago…

He watched as she approached, silently cursing to himself. A pink Alicorn with that strange walk, exactly like she used to do. Thorax stiffened, seeing that twisted smirk, just like she always had. And those eyes, those envious green, glowing eyes. Her eyes. He had never seen her before, but he knew who the Alicorn was, and why she was here. He swallowed hard, the emerald green of his neck glistening with sweat. Yes, there was no doubt, she was here to hear about her.

He had promised Twilight when this time came he would reveal it all, but could he? Could he stomach reliving those memories again? He watched as the regal Alicorn calmly walked towards him, causing the other heads of the hive to turn and watch in silence. The Changelings had all stopped whatever they had been doing to just stare at her as she walked by them as if ensorcelled. Of course, Thorax thought bitterly, she was that one’s other child after all. Her scent was all over this Alicorn.

Intruder. Defend hive. No, smell that? One of ours? Thorax listened as the entire hive soon erupted with these thoughts. He, however, stayed silent as he observed her stopping to ask random Changelings if they could help her. Not part of hive? But has our scent. Should attack. No, one of ours. Over and over the confused thoughts of his hive sounded off in his head.

Changelings were known to be fiercely friendly and welcoming nowadays, that is, when outside the hive. Though kind and loving outside the hive, the Changelings were extremely territorial. While being welcomed into society a few years back, strange reports had come in that creatures of all kinds last seen near the hive had completely vanished. Within a week, a formal investigation by Twilight herself was issued. And immediately closed after an in depth interview with Thorax.

Twilight had calmly issued a royal decree stating to avoid the Changeling Hive. That the Changelings simply defended their home as would any other creature. In the end no wrongdoing had been the verdict. In her words, if one did not wish to be torn apart by the carnivorous Changelings all they had to do was avoid entering the hive. Since then, reports had dwindled down, though occasionally some still decided to test their luck, and the Changelings graciously welcomed them, with open mandibles.

“Attack?”

Beside him she sat. His daughter, Ocellus. The first born to their hive using natural means. Thorax could feel her anticipation, her desire to rip and tear, just as she was taught. She had grown up being shown the ins and outs of being a Changeling. But then again, she wasn’t a Changeling. He smiled wryly. None of them were. Not anymore. His hooves turned to claws momentarily to push off with in order to rise from his throne.

“No.”

Ocellus blinked in confusion.

“Why?”

Thorax was different from the others. He had been the first drone, and his ascension to King now allowed him to see what they could not. A special sensory of such, to determine friend and foe. He watched the Alicorn as she approached him, an aura of green fire surrounding her. Her magic, or rather decades old traces of it.

“She’s family.”

“Family?”

Ocellus stared intently at the approaching Alicorn. That pink fur, that flowing mane and silken tail. Family was not a word her father would use carelessly; of the hundreds of Changelings in the hive, Thorax had only ever called Ocellus his family. Yet this Alicorn, this Princess, this Pony was considered family?

Ocellus was lost in these thoughts as she watched her father calmly approach the Alicorn. In this hive, Changelings were not given to long, flowery speech. They would say what they meant exactly when they meant it. Their movements were deliberate, wasting no time on frivolities or ceremony. There would be no beating around the bush and Ocellus knew what her father did next, would explain it all.

Thorax stood before the Alicorn and looked her in the eyes. His voice was soft and gentle, though carried an air of familiarity.

“Welcome Flurry Heart.”

Before a single word was spoken in reply, Thorax nodded.

“Yes, I know who you are. And yes, I know why you are here.”

Flurry Heart barely had the time to open her mouth before Thorax spoke again.

“Much to discuss. Not here. Follow.”

Flurry Heart was taken aback by the sudden abrupt way Thorax had spoken to her. As jarring as it was, however, she soon noticed it wasn’t just towards her. Thorax swiftly turned towards his daughter.

“Ocellus, follow. Important. You need to hear-”

Turning toward an armored Changeling by his throne, Thorax said simply.

“Tend the hive, Pharynx. Back soon.”

Starting towards a tunnel behind the throne without waiting for a response, Thorax’s eyes flashed.

“Follow. Now, sister.”

Flurry Heart opened her mouth to respond, to ask a question, only for a single word to come out.

“Okay.”

Without her input, Flurry Heart found her hooves moving on their own. She found herself following Thorax and Ocellus down the long hallway, noticing the structure of the walls begin to change about halfway through. What was going on? Dark black rocks lined the walls, dotting them at first and as she got further completely made up the entire wall.

Entering into a surprisingly large room, Flurry Heart noticed everything within it and the room itself was constructed of the same strange black stones. There was a bed, a wardrobe, a mirror and in the center of the room, strangely enough was an odd construction. It consisted of three prongs jutting up from the floor, coming together at the tip to form a point. At the point of the strange formation, a strange lilac-colored ball of light floated.

Thorax spoke in a more eloquent manner.

“We can talk here without worrying about the hive enchantments hindering us.”

Flurry Heart opened her mouth to respond and found once more she could speak normally.

“The hive has enchantments?”

Thorax nodded sagely.

“This hive is enchanted with a curse that forces efficiency, not even her highness Princess Twilight Sparkle could remove. It forces only necessary words and movements to be allowed. Nothing extra is permitted. Words that aren’t needed cannot be uttered, and motions not required cannot be performed.”

Gesturing at the walls, Thorax continued.

“These stones were excavated from the wreckage of her throne and will block all forms of magic including the curse upon this hive. So we may have a more thorough discussion here, as there is much to say.”

Looking startled, Ocellus spoke up.

“What do you mean by her throne, Dad? Who is her?”

Pressing a button on the back wall, Thorax responded as he reached into the revealed cubby hole and pulled out a glowing lilac-colored crystal.

“Queen Chrysalis.”

“Who is Queen Chrysalis?”

Placing the crystal within the ball of the light, Thorax smiled bitterly.

“Just watch-”

A bright light illuminated the entire room, bathing everything in a blinding flash.

“You’ll soon understand everything.”

Chapter 33: Image Snapshot-Part One

The light faded, revealing Flurry Heart standing at the back of a large room, staring at a large circular table. Around the table she witnessed her Aunt Twilight and the Elements of Harmony. Flurry’s eyes grew wide in surprise. Not only were they still alive, they were young. Really young. As though they were still in their prime of youth.

Next to them, larger than any other, Princesses Celestia and Luna stood proudly adorned with their legendary regalia; from the coronets to amulets, they were the picture of royalty. Next to them, Starlight Glimmer stood holding the same crystal that had been in Thorax’s possession. She looked vibrant and full of life, and next to her, was an Alicorn that caused Flurry’s heart to leap into her throat.

She was an exact copy of Flurry Heart as she was now, down to the stripe of her multi-colored mane. Though her eyes weren’t green, there was no mistaking the cutie mark upon her pink-hued flank. The Crystal Heart, a cutie mark that had been unique to the Princess of Love, Princess Cadence.

Flurry Heart had never known her mother growing up; Cadence having sacrificed herself to defeat the Wendigos once and for all when she was just a foal Alicorn. Seeing her in the flesh, caused a wave of many emotions to wash over Flurry Heart.

Flurry Heart wanted to scream, to cry, to shout with excitement. Opening her mouth to speak, Flurry Heart was at a loss for words. No sound came forth, and so she stood there closer than she’d ever been, yet completely out of reach.

Next to Cadence, an in-his-golden-years version of her father stood. And on Shining Armor’s back, swaddled in a swath of woolen blanket lay a sleeping foal. Flurry Heart’s gaze lingered on the baby form of herself for a few seconds, before noticing the Stag-form of the Changeling King Thorax standing proudly beside the two, as though all three were the best of friends.

On the other side, Gilda, the newly elected Mayor of Griffonstone sat in a chiseled stone chair chatting away with a sapphire blue dragoness wielding the fabled scepter of the ruler of the Dragonlands. Dragonlord Ember seemed to be laughing at something her Griffon friend had said, both taking a moment to down whatever had been in two identical crystal goblets before carrying on once more.

A massive Yak, whose eyes were covered with tufts of overgrown fur, wore a golden crown was discussing the joys of smashing things with a younger version of Autumn Blaze. The spokespony for the Kirin giggled incessantly at the ridiculous discourse; simultaneously offering Prince Rutherford of Yakyakistan a cupcake made by Pinkie Pie, herself, from a tray that had appeared on the table. Though none knew exactly how Pinkie did it, not one of the creatures gathering around the table questioned it, after everything they had just been through; all happy to simply accept the confectionaries of friendship.

Such a scene had never been witnessed, all the various cultures, species and values of the continent of Equestria gathered in true Unity. Even Discord stood there, teasing Celestia and Luna while all three chuckled good-humoredly. It was simply unheard of at the time.

All were jovial and chatting amicably and then Twilight cleared her throat. It wasn’t particularly loud, but the noise within the crystalline room instantly fell quiet as all eyes fell upon the young Princess of Friendship. Twilight looked around the table at each member and said simply.

“Thanks to friendship, the Unity of our races has come to fruition. Thanks to your help, Equestria’s greatest foes have been defeated.”

The room erupted in celebratory cheers; however, Twilight wasn’t done. She patiently waited for the shouts of jubilation to die down, before glancing at the stone statue that sat off to the side and speaking once more.

“However, there is one that should be celebrating with us, for without her, this never could have happened.”

Around the table, looks of confusion appeared on the faces of the attendants, that is except a select few. Cadence’s eyes began to tear up, as Shining Armor glanced at Thorax, who nodded in understanding before speaking.

“True, had it not been for her plan, we Changelings would still be outcasts in Equestria.”

Discord chimed in, while clicking his tongue dismissively.

“As much as I hate to say it, her plan really did work.”

Celestia and Luna gave each other glances before inquiring.

“Who is this you speak of?”

Starlight glanced at Twilight in curiosity.

“Yeah, Twilight, who are you talking about?”

Spreading her wings to their full length in dramatic flair, Twilight watched a hush fall upon all present. Glancing from Cadence to Shining, to the baby Flurry Heart asleep on her brother’s back, Twilight spoke just two words.

“Queen Chrysalis.”

The effect was instantaneous. All around the table objections erupted and chaos ensued.

“What in Tarnation, Sugarcube?”

“Darling, you cannot be serious.”

“Totally not awesome. She tried to kill us!”

“Oatmeal? Are you crazy?”

“We d-did give her plenty of chances though, Twilight.”

“Trix will totally get a kick out of this later.”

Twilight sighed, before uttering a single word with such force that it shook the very walls of her crystal castle.

“Listen.”

Folding her wings as the hubbub subsided, Twilight’s voice returned to its normal tone.

“Chrysalis isn’t who you think she was. And I can’t hold this secret anymore, it isn’t right. I’m sorry Cadence. Forgive me.”

All eyes turned towards Princess Cadence, who cast her gaze sheepishly downward, nodding half-heartedly. Shining Armor immediately hugged her, speaking to Twilight as he did so.

“Go ahead. You’re right, it is time, you’ve kept your end of the promise.”

At the word ‘promise’ Rainbow Dash seemed to become more attentive while Starlight laughed as though the funniest joke had just been told.

“Oh, c’mon Twilight, be more serious.”

Twilight opened her mouth to reply only to be interrupted by the Element of Loyalty, herself.

“Give her a chance to explain. Go ahead, Twilight.”

With those words, Dash landed beside Applejack, her full undivided attention on Twilight. Twilight began to explain, her voice carrying a bittersweet feeling to it.

“Chrysalis has been on our side this entire time! It all began back before the wedding, when Chrysalis was dating Cadence, in the guise of my brother.”

Celestia and Luna exchanged shocked looks, but neither spoke as Twilight continued.

“After she and Cadence spent a night of passion together, within Cadence new life blossomed.”

Suddenly Celestia blurted out.

“You can’t be referring to Flurry Heart. Twilight this joke has gone on long enough.”

Thorax just laughed.

“Didn’t it seem odd to you, that a baby Alicorn was born to a Pegasus turned Alicorn, and a Unicorn, but has no traits of her father, yet looks like a clone of her Alicorn mother?”

Luna chimed in.

“You can’t mean-”

Thorax nodded.

“The Changeling seed within Cadence transformed its own genes to match its carrier.”

Twilight continued amidst the silence that followed.

“Because Cadence had originally been a Pegasus, the life within her became the spitting image of what her Alicorn form would look like had she been born a Alicorn.”

Celestia pointed an accusatory hoof at Cadence.

“Why didn’t you tell us? Me?”

Streams of anguish fell down Cadence's muzzle. Opening her mouth to speak, only unintelligible, sobbing utterances came forth. Luna instantly understood, however.

“We would have killed her, sister.”

Celestia’s face fell as recognition dawned in her eyes. She whispered.

“The Changeling Laws.”

Twilight watched as Shining gently nuzzled his wife in an effort to calm her tears, as she told everycreature at the table, all of which were muttering in confusion.

“That’s right, Princess. For those unaware, at the time the Changeling Laws were a set of mandates passed that were enforced without leniency: Confirmed interaction with a Changeling was considered treason to the Canterlot Royalty. In other words, the penalty was death for all involved.”

As the murmurs became more aggressive, Twilight continued after taking a breath during the pause.

“But that’s not even the worst of it because Cadence is Princess Celestia’s own niece. Imagine the fallout ramifications of confirmation that a member of the Royal Family fraternizing with a Changeling leaked to the public. Such a scandal amidst the crown could have never been lived down.”

All eyes turned angrily towards the Royal Sisters, as Twilight hurriedly added.

“Though the laws have since been annulled, at the time, they were very much active. And surprisingly, the one that was most worried about it being revealed, was Chrysalis. She was worried about how it would affect the sisters' reign.”

Celestia and Luna traded surprised looks before Luna spoke up.

“Why would Chrysalis be concerned for our sakes?”

That’s when Discord stepped forward, gesturing with his griffon claw.

“Perhaps I can shed somewhat light on that.”

With that, Discord snapped his fingers.

Chapter 34: Image Snapshot-Part Two

The snap was audible and afterward a loud gasp erupted from all present. There before their eyes appeared Queen Chrysalis, herself. But she was smaller, much smaller. The gasps of surprise faded into murmurs of confusion, while Flurry Heart stared at her in surprise. Was she a filly?

Her wings of gossamer were slightly fluttering, though her eyes were the same glowing, envious green as Flurry’s own. And she was standing in front of a throne in the middle of a field. And on that throne, looking rather bored, sat Discord, talking down to her.

“You would side with them, little sister?”

The tiny Changeling scuffed at the ground with her hoof.

“Aren’t you tired of this, Discord? Father was defeated by a simple Unicorn. We both saw it happen. Why should we bother carrying out Grogar’s orders any longer?”

“Hold it!”

Pinkie Pie threw her hooves in the air as she shouted loudly.

“Explain yourself! She’s your sister? Grogar’s your father?”

The image froze as Discord spoke in an almost dismissive tone.

“She and I were molded from the same clay Grogar used to breathe life into us. I am the Lord of Chaos as you well know, and Sower of Disharmony. Chrysalis, however, was the Duchess of Disharmony and Sower of Chaos.”

Discord snapped his fingers, but surprisingly nothing happened. All eyes turned to Pinkie Pie as Discord called her out in annoyance.

“Mrs. Pie, there is much to go over, so if you would please-”

The sentence trailed off as Pinkie spoke suddenly.

“Makes sense to me.”

Instantly, without Discord’s input, the scene continued to play again. Discord glared at the Element of Laughter raising a suspicious eyebrow as he spoke to her, snapping his fingers to stop the scene once more.

“How do you even do that?”

Pinkie giggled and reached for a cupcake. After taking a bite, Pinkie blinked.

“Do what?”

Next to her Rarity, Applejack and Rainbow Dash chuckled lightly. Even Fluttershy gave a light titter causing Discord’s anger to vanish instantly at the sight. Rolling her eyes, though with a smile on her face, Twilight spoke up.

“Pinkie, this is a serious matter. There is a time and place for such antics, this isn’t it.”

Looking slightly abashed, Pinkie swallowed her bite of cupcake and said.

“Sorry, Twilight.”

Turning back to Discord, Twilight gestured with the sweep of her wing.

“Ignore the interruption. Please, continue.”

All eyes fell upon the image of Chrysalis as Discord snapped his fingers, and the scene between the Chrysalis of the past, and Discord the Chaos Ruler, continued once more.

The self-proclaimed ruler was silent for a moment before clapping his mismatched hands, causing rubber duckies to rain from the ground upward into the sky.

“Chaos, dear sister. It’s what we are, it’s what we do.”

With those words, the sky and ground flipped into reverse, causing Chrysalis to start falling down to the sky. Instantly, Chrysalis’s horn glowed a bright, shining green causing her to flip around and lift up to the ground. Gingerly her hooves touched the ground. Flipping her mane of gossamer around in a flourish, Chrysalis proclaimed in a sassy, sarcastic manner.

“Cute trick, brother. You’ll have to do better than that. Anyway, can't you listen to me seriously, just once?”

Stepping off his now upside down throne to land down on the sky, Discord laughed as the sky changed to a large slice of gouda cheese, which he began to ice skate upon.

“Serious? Why should I be serious, Little Chrysi? After all, what could you possibly do that wouldn’t involve inflicting chaos?”

Stamping her hoof and pouting, Chrysalis’s tiny wings fluttered as she shouted.

“I mean it, be serious won’t you?”

The sound of a snap was heard, and the ground was once more the ground and all chaotic elements vanished, leaving a very stern-looking Discord. His normal carefree demeanor was gone, his voice simple, yet forceful.

“Chaos and Harmony are two-sides of the same coin, Chrysalis. Without one, the other ceases to exist. Without the other the first could not exist to begin with. We are the bringers of Chaos and Disharmony. The sisters are the bearers of Harmony and Order. All have a role to play, and that is why we do this, my dear sister.”

Chrysalis was at a loss of words for a moment, before giving a large sigh.

“Fine. Whatever. In any case, I’ve taken care of the Crystal Empire as you requested.”

Discord, back to his usual self, began washing himself with white wine, using a living racoon as a washcloth; much to the creature’s apparent protesting dismay.

“Oh? And how did that go, all to plan I suppose?”

Chrysalis grinned, her tiny little fangs twinkling in the sudden moonlight.

“As if there was any doubt. The Demon I summoned easily slaughtered the ruling class and took over the Empire; enslaving the helpless fools who stood against us.”

Discord thought for a moment as he stepped out of the conjured bathtub and used a piece of stale bread to comb his Zebra-like mane.

“And where is this, Sombra, I believe you called him, now?”

Chrysalis laughed wickedly.

“Dead, slain by little Luna herself, all according to plan. Her scythe took his head, and in return, the poor Alicorn has been infected by a spark of madness. It’s only a matter of time before she is plagued by thoughts that aren’t her own and turns against her beloved sister.”

Discord conjured up a reflective glass pane and gargled with some toothpaste, before spitting it out and laughed.

“Oh how delightful, you really outdid yourself this time. And the empire?”

“Gone. The curse I placed on the unsuspecting fool activated upon his demise. And with the Empire banished, you won’t have to worry about Celestia or Luna gaining power from its divine influences.”

Chrysalis stopped her gloating to look Discord in the eyes accusingly.

“Why did you request only a thousand years?”

Discord grinned and did a one handed handstand.

“Who knows what the future may hold.”

Suddenly, he was standing upright and looking grimly at the sky. The sun was beginning to rise, and not by his design. Glancing at Chrysalis, he shouted at her.

“Go! They are coming.”

Chrysalis looked fearful for a split moment before saying.

“Is this really goodbye? Are you really intending to lose this fight?”

Discord seemed to have trouble forcing a grin on his face. His voice was whimsical, yet she could hear how troubled he really was.

“It’s all according to plan, remember?”

Chrysalis stared at him for a split-second before turning and running as fast as she could for the trees. The image faded revealing a stunned-looking Princess Luna, who opened her mouth, seemingly to yell obscenities at Discord, judging from the outrage on her face, when suddenly she was stopped as another image appeared.

It was Crysalis, but she seemed older, more mature. She stood the size of a full-grown Unicorn, and the look in her eyes was hollow, as though she had witnessed many horrors. Using her magic, she assumed the body of an unassuming mare before approaching the Canterlot Castle Garden, and the statue within. A statue of a Draconequus.

She sighed as she approached it, her head hung in melancholy as she slumped next to it. She lamented softly.

“I’m done. It worked. All of it. My hive was built. My army razed the entirety of Equestria for decades. The griffons and the dragons teamed up to attack the ponies, incited by my deceit and treachery. It worked. And yet, none of it mattered, Discord.”

The statue slowly bent down to pat Chrysalis’s head as it replied.

“Didn’t matter? The Chaos we spread was legendary and-”

Chrysalis wasn’t having it as she shouted in anger.

“And what? It’s been nearly 800 years Discord, and nopony even remembers. They scrubbed our efforts from their populace’s mind. Nopony recalls the name Discord, or the name of Chrysalis. We slaughtered thousands, we brought Equestria to the brink of complete collapse and they don’t even teach about us in their schools!”

She threw her hooves up in frustration, as she declared.

“Even Luna, Miss Nightmare Moon became at least a mare’s tale; a legend passed down to frighten the fillies and colts, but you and me? Not even a footnote! It was all for nothing.”

Discord was silent for a moment, before attempting to sound whimsical.

“Perhaps you just need to remind them of who-”

Chrysalis rose to her hooves and interrupted him mid-sentence.

“No. I’m done. Since chaos has no lasting impact, I’m done with scheming and wickedness. From now on I’m living my immortality for me. Grogar’s will be damned.”

Discord called out to his sister as she walked away.

“And what do you plan to do?”

Chrysalis paused and laughed.

“ Who knows, immortality is a long time, perhaps I can make up for what I did and assist the ponies. I heard Celestia’s having trouble with the Yaks of Yakyakistan, maybe I can enlist. Maybe I’ll find somepony to settle down with and rule my hive side-by-side with.”

The image faded as Discord chuckled.

“I’d love to see that.”

Before any of the onlookers around the table could comment, another scene began to play, and all were paying rapt attention.

Many years had passed and now Chrysalis stood as tall as the sisters, themselves, her wings fully developed, with a flowing mane and tail of sparkling teal.

The Changeling Queen stood next to the castle walls, before transforming her body to resemble that of a castle guard. Where once stood a majestic Queen, now stood a stallion with golden armor, the typical garb of Celestia’s royal guard.

Slowly the guard, in a deliberate and well-practiced motion, approached a large serpentine-styled statue in the middle of the palace grounds. The statue was remarkably life-like in how intrinsic the various details of it were. The guard smiled and addressed the statue.

“Hello, dear brother.”

The eyes of the statue blinked as the chiseled concrete Draconequus spoke.

“Chrysalis, how have you been?”

“I finally met somepony.”

For anypony watching this interaction, they might have sworn the Draconequus’s chiseled lips formed into a smile. They might also almost believe the statue was actually speaking to the strange Royal guard soldier.

“Is that so?”

“She’s amazing!”

The stallion lost its disciplined posture, suddenly jumping around in excitement, while his voice became completely feminine and silken with excitement.

“I met her in the marketplace just yesterday. We spent hours shopping and talking with each other. She has amazingly pink fur, her mane has such an amazing stylish stripe of three colors. And you won’t believe this, she’s an Alicorn, and her wings are just gorgeous!”

For several minutes, Chrysalis gushed over her new friend, seemingly forgetting where she was in the process as her voice became more and more evident. But it wasn’t just her voice, her transformation seemed affected by her lack of concentration, as well; her Changeling Queen body now fully visible for any onlookers.

“Changeling in the garden!”

The shout was sudden, and the effect was immediate. From everywhere, Royal Soldiers of the Canterlot Guard came running, armed to the teeth with spears. Before Chrysalis could so much as blink, she was surrounded, the jagged spears at her throat as a massive flash of magic signaled the coming of her imminent doom.

Celestia stood before Chrysalis, glaring at the Changeling Queen, her wings flared to their full length. Her eyes were hardened, and without an ounce of mercy within the amethyst irises. She snarled at Chrysalis.

“You! Your crimes against Ponykind will never be forgiven!”

As Chrysalis watched Celestia power up her horn, and with nowhere to run, closed her eyes to prepare for the end. But everycreature present was so preoccupied with the spectacle, that no one noticed the Draconequus statue’s griffon claw slide slowly behind its back, or the sound of a single audible snap that it made as the griffon talons slowly came together.

There was a flash of magic blinding all present and when it cleared, Chrysalis was no longer in sight, and the statue was back in perfect formation once more. Celestia’s eyes frantically searched all around before stamping her hoof in frustration.

“I want her found and brought before me!”

Turning in rage, Celestia shouted out.

“Twilight!”

A gray-furred mare with a purple and white striped mane, and tail, suddenly appeared in a somewhat-powerful burst of purple magic. She had with her a bunch of books and scrolls. Somewhat out of breath, she called out.

“Yes, Princess?”

Celestia did not mince words, her anger dripping off every syllable.

“I am declaring a new mandate. Changelings. Must. Be. Exterminated. Twilight, write this down. All creatures within my kingdom are hereby ordered to kill any Changeling on sight. All creatures caught associating with them shall be put to death, as well. I hereby issue this mandate in the name of the magic of the sun and the moon I wield.”

The image faded once more, only to be replaced by yet another one, this one appearing faster than the others, as though a movie reel were coming to an end on a projector.

Surprisingly, Chrysalis wasn’t visible. Instead, the scene displayed Princess Cadence walking beside Twilight Sparkle’s brother, Shining Armor. He was dressed fully in his armored guard attire, with the blue Captain star insignia emblazoned on the front. On his back was a picnic basket, from which a wine bottle could be seen peeking out from beneath a checkered cloth.

In the sky, the full moon could be seen, along with the legendary formation of ‘the Mare in the Moon’. The garden of Canterlot Castle’s grounds were quiet as the two slowly made their way towards the large Draconequus statue, talking in low voices.

“Were you really able to fight alongside Aunt Celestia?”

“Yeah, and let me tell you, she really hides her true strength.”

“Hey! You there, the grounds are closed during the night.”

A night guard who had been on patrol ran towards the two, halting suddenly as Shining Armor turned towards the approaching stallion. The guard began to stammer, while throwing up a clumsy salute.

“Oh! Captain- it’s you I-I-”

Shining laughed.

“At ease, I just decided to take my marefriend here on a date. Why don’t you go and patrol elsewhere for a while. I’ll triple your shift pay if you keep this quiet.”

The guard brightened up immediately, his eyes seeing only bits.

“You got it, Captain!”

As soon as he had gone around the corner, Cadence whispered.

“You are so horrible, you know that money will be coming out of the actual Shining’s pockets, right?”

Shining armor grinned and a much more feminine voice whispered back.

“Don’t worry about that, I’ll take care of it. Alright, here we are.”

Cadence blinked.

“A statue? You want me to meet a statue?”

The imposter Shining Armor laughed and walked up to the statue and smacked it heavily on the backside with his hoof.

“This is no statue. Discord, wake your lazy flank up.”

Cadence glanced curiously at Shining Armor and then turned to stare at the statue.

“Discord?”

The audible sound of a snapping claw was heard, and Cadence watched as a bat in mid-swoop suddenly froze in the air. Glancing all around her, she noticed everything had froze in place; everything but Shining Armor and her. She watched in awe as Shining Armor began to glow and soon Chrysalis was standing before her.

Her wonderment turned into surprise and shock as the statue of the Draconequus yawned, stretching it's chiseled limbs as though having just woken up. Cadence watched in stunned silence as it hopped down from its pedestal let out a sudden howl in the moonlight as it threw its stone head back and mused aloud.

“Chrysalis, little sister, how have you been?”

Chrysalis just laughed at Cadence's expression of surprise and gestured at the statue.

“Cadence, I present Discord, Lord of Chaos and my brother. Discord, this is my special somepony, Cadence, Princess of Love.”

Cadence watched, at a complete loss for words, as the statue before her bent down in a perfect flourishing bow.

“Charmed.”

He reached out a hand, the stone slowly dissolving off of him as he did so, revealing the mismatched parts of the Lord of Chaos. Cadence gasped.

“But, Aunt Tia said you were trapped in there for eternity!”

Discord scoffed.

“Oh please, if the world could get rid of chaos by turning it to stone, everypony would do it, wouldn’t they?”

Chrysalis chuckled.

“The Elements of Harmony don’t really affect us, Cadence. We are literal embodiments of Chaos and Disharmony. Harmony cannot exist without us, or we without it. Discord could easily become a statue anytime the mood strikes him.”

Discord nodded.

“So true.”

Cadence looked confused.

“But why would you choose to be a statue in a flower garden for so long then?”

Chrysalis placed a black hoof to her muzzle and gave a groan.

“Because my idiot brother only does anything when the mood hits him. He refuses to be chaotic unless, as he says, the time is right. There is no rhyme or reason to his madness.”

Discord chuckled darkly.

“If one could predict chaos, how chaotic could that chaos truly claim to be, after all?”

Chrysalis rolled her eyes and reached into a saddlebag that seemed to appear on her back, amidst a glow of green magic, pulling out a book.

“Oh yes, such an intellectual, anyway, shut up and take a look at this.”

Cadence was mortified, but Discord seemed to take it in stride glancing at the cover of the book.

“Oh, Tale of the Two Sisters. Quite the title you’ve picked.”

Almost slithering through the air to land beside her, he ran a claw down Chrysalis’s mane teasingly.

“I take it, this means you plan to go ahead with Little Miss Element of Magic’s lesson, then?”

Chrysalis nodded.

“I spent so long writing this. I’m sure she’ll find this particular book helpful for the upcoming Summer Sun Celebration.”

The image faded once more, leaving a stunned and speechless audience around the table. Luna stared at Discord in disbelief, while Celestia seemed apprehensive. After a moment of silence, she finally spoke.

“While it appears that she wished to turn over a new leaf, I feel we are severely missing context as to what actually happened.”

Shining Armor cleared his throat.

“Then I guess, it’s my turn to share.”

Chapter 35: Image Snapshot-Part Three

Celestia looked over to Shining Armor.

“You were in on this too, Shining?”

Taking a deep breath, Shining Armor nodded solemnly, as he looked the Celestial Alicorn in the eyes.

“I was, Princess.”

His eyes darted to where Twilight sat.

“And Twily?”

She locked eyes with him.

“What is it, BBBFF?”

Shining looked down for a moment before smiling soberingly.

“I hope you’ll forgive me…for what you’re about to see.”

Twilight’s eyes went wide with surprise.

“What do you mean?”

Shining Armor didn’t reply, instead, he turned to gesture towards Discord.

“Can you broadcast my memories like you did yours?”

“Shining, what are you talking about?”

Twilight’s shout was heard throughout the room as Discord matched eyes with the stallion.

“Are you sure you want this?”

“Shining!”

Shining Armor swallowed hard before his gaze hardened in determination.

“I owe her that much. Do it.”

Discord shrugged and held up his gryphon claw; the resounding snap of his talons drowning out Twilight’s attempts to get her brother to answer her. In the corner of the room, Flurry Heart continued to watch the display with great interest as an image shimmered to life in front of the table, and the room fell silent once more.

Shining Armor materialized before the onlookers, dressed in full Celestation Armor, so named for the way Celestia’s own solar magic was forged into it; granting it protection from any magical assault. The armor itself was thick plating forged from a nearly impervious metal whose origins had been lost, but was discovered over 970 years prior and rumored to have been named after its mysterious discoverer; Lunarium.

The room in which he stood was constructed of wooden framing, though the walls and floors were stone chunks cobbled together in a pattern. A troubled look was written across his features as he watched the courtyard, filled with recruits training, through a one-way window. His mood was dark as he stood, lost in thought.

Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted by the shout at the doorway.

“Captain, sir, that recruit you wanted to see has arrived.”

Shining sighed, and glancing at the spear by his hoof, took a deep breath.

“Send her in.”

As the mare calmly walked in, he watched her stop and snap to attention. Her hoof rose in a salute as she greeted her commanding officer.

“Sir, you requested to see me, Sir!”

He looked her over. A brown-furred hide, Unicorn with teal eyes. Her mane was a flowing auburn, same as her tail. Her cutiemark though unique; depicting a soldier’s insignia, was not particularly out of place. From her hooves to her mane, nothing was odd or out of the ordinary. Could he have been wrong?

Shining Armor gestured with his hoof.

“At ease, cadet.”

Instantly, her salute dropped and almost as if it was second nature, the mare stood in a casual manner; her hooves exactly directly beneath her shoulders and thighs, not a hint of slouching and maintaining direct eye contact. A picture of a perfect soldier’s disciple.

Shining Armor spoke, attempting to keep his suspicions out of his voice, for the time being.

“What is your name, cadet?”

“Chrysalis, sir.”

The mare’s voice was direct and swift. Shining detected no form of tremble of hesitation, he continued, picking up a sheet from his desk with his levitation magic. Reading it out loud, he could barely keep the intrigue out of his voice.

“Nothing but kind words from the instructors; no arguments, does what needs to be done. You’ve even managed to de-escalate confrontations on the spot. Quite impressive, Miss Chrysalis.”

“Thank you, sir. I do my best, for Princess and Country.”

Shining nodded, taking note of the motto of Equestria’s Royal Military. Perhaps this was just an eager recruit, maybe he really was wrong. If that was the case, fine. But he had to know for sure.

“You said your name is Chrysalis?”

“Sir, yes, Sir.”

“Chrysalis, your moxie is unprecedented. I wish half my recruits had your disciple. But there’s one problem.”

“Sir?”

Shining lay down the papers on his desk, using his magic to levitate the spear next to it, to point it directly at the mare.

“We have no recruits registered under the name of Chrysalis. Who are you, really?”

The mare sighed, and her horn glowed a bright green, her body slowly changing and contorting as she replied to Shining Armor.

“The elements of despair, cruelty, selfishness, betrayal, and false witness. I am the embodiment of Disharmony, itself-”

Rising to her full height, Chrysalis’s gossamer silken mane shone bright teal, as did her tail, her black exoskeleton fully revealed. The wings on her back resembled spun star spider silk webbing in appearance, and her eyes glowed a bright, envious green as she gave a flourishing bow with a hoof.

“I am the Queen of the Changelings, at your service.”

Though she made no further movements, Shining shouted.

“A Changeling. How dare you show yourself here!”

Chrysalis frowned momentarily, noticing the spear in front of her. She spoke, her voice one of disinterest.

“Tell me, Captain. Do you fear death?”

Shining Armor glared at her. The Royal soldiers of Celestia were trained to fear nothing. Just what did this creature think she was saying? Was she insinuating he should fear her?

“Of course not!”

Chrysalis smirked and using her magic, easily wrenched the spear from his grip before sending it crashing it through her throat; an audible crunching of her exoskeleton was heard as it penetrated her, before tearing out the back with a sickening crack.

Shining Armor stared horrified at her as she slowly pulled the spear out through the hole it had made. She spoke softly, in an almost lamentful tone.

“Neither do I.”

The spear clattered to the stone floor as the wounds in her exoskeleton slowly came together, filling in the gaping hole as though it had never happened.

Your move, Captain.”

Shining just stood there in disbelief, as Chrysalis calmly sat on her haunches, keeping perfect eye contact.

“And for the record, Captain, I didn’t lie, you know.”

She laughed; a mixture of wickedness, smugness and just a hint of an undertone of hope.

“My name really is Chrysalis.”

“Captain, we heard a commotion, is everything okay in there?”

Shining turned towards the doorway to see Princess Celestia standing there, looking concerned. Swiftly, he turned back to Chrysalis, only to see an unassuming mare sitting there where the Changeling Queen had been sitting, looking at him innocently.

This was his chance, all he had to do was tell the Celestial Princess and she would easily deal with the Changeling menace. Still, something was bothering him. This Chrysalis, this Queen Changeling, hadn’t made a single aggressive move. She hadn’t attacked him, she had even come across as patient; though her attitude would beg to differ. What if…What if he could trust her? Would hearing her out be so bad?

Shining glanced at Celestia.

“Yes, your majesty. I just knocked over my spear by accident while talking to this cadet.”

Seemingly noticing the mare for the first time, Princess Celestia looked her over for a moment before smiling brightly.

“Oh, you’re that cadet that has the Drill Sergeant in high spirits.”

Giving a humble bow, Chrysalis spoke with utmost respect in reply.

“For Princess and Country, your Majesty.”

Looking over at Shining, who was stunned by the display, Celestia nodded.

“We need more like her. Especially if we are to put an end to this thankless war.”

Suddenly a shout from behind Celestia was heard.

“Your Majesty! The Dragons have teamed up with the Yaks and Griffons, and are attacking the northern front! Our troops are being overwhelmed.”

Celestia’s eyes became as cold as ice, and nearly twice as hard.

“Rally the troops, Captain. We fight at dawn.”

With that she left in a small explosion of teleportation magic. Shining Armor turned to look at Chrysalis, who had conjured a medical satchel and was busy checking its contents.

“Can I trust you?”

Chrysalis looked up from her supplies and gave a sweet smile, saying simply.

“No.”

Before he could respond however, she placed a brown hoof under her chin thoughtfully; musing out loud.

“Then again, I probably wouldn’t trust me either.”

Again she turned her attention to her medical supplies, muttering to herself.

“Gonna need aloe for this one.”

Shining Armor just stared at her. Chrysalis had done nothing but be upfront with him, even if her attitude said otherwise. What kind of Embodiment of Disharmony would possibly tell the truth like that? What was it she wanted, what exactly was her plan?

He watched in silence for a moment as she conjured aloe leaves only to magically wring the sap from within, mix it with an unidentifiable compound and place the mixture in several tubes, before sliding them in her bag.

Time would tell.

Suddenly the scene before the watchers shifted. A large meadowed plain; a massive battlefield littered with the corpses of Ponies and Dragons. Fires burned out of control as Griffons rained hell from above, while Yaks engaged in hoof to hoof combat with a squad of Earthponies. The sky had become entirely obscured by blacked smoke, while all around screams of rage, panic and fear echoed from both sides.

Chrysalis in her mare form stood silently amidst the chaos scanning the landscape, her med pack on her back. Off to the side, Shining Armor issued commands, though keeping Chrysalis visible in the corner of his eyes.

“Alright, Alpha, take the right side, see if you can provide support against the Yaks. Bravo Company, you take out those griffons. Charlie- Chrysalis! What do you think you’re doing?!”

Chrysalis’s eyes had widened for a second, before she had taken off, like a batpony out of Tartarus, calling back as she did so.

“Sorry Captain, I told you not to trust me!”

With that she rushed off, racing towards a particularly loud explosion in the distance. Shining Armor swore at the top of his lungs.

“Damn it! All of you get to your positions. Now!”

With that, he raced after Chrysalis, blasting anything in his way. As a part of a Griffon fell to the earth, shorn in half,Shining galloped past. As the second part of the hapless foe slammed into the ground, spilling forth a pool of crimson, Shining paid it no mind.

“You are going to get yourself killed, you reckless mare!”

Finally he arrived at the spot where Chrysalis sat, quietly watching something. Shining Armor’s eyes grew as wide as dinner plates with shock. Princess Celestia stood on her hind hooves, gritting her teeth in fury; forehooves locked in the massive claws of the Dragonlord, Torch.

While dragonhide was notorious for being impervious to magic, none had ever seen this side of the Alicorn of the Sun. Her muscles rippled with raw sinew as she held her own; neither intimidated nor backing down from her foe. Her hooves dug into the earth as she strained against the sheer might of the Dragonlord.

Torch was massive, even as Dragons go; his strength was the stuff of nightmares. His claws were said to easily pierce solid diamonds, as easily as a knife cutting butter. Yet, the look on his face was anything but confident as he stood in a standoff with the Princess.

“Hello, Captain. Have a seat, it won’t be long.”

Shining stared at her in disbelief.

“What are you talking about? What do you kno-”

No sooner had the words left his mouth, Celestia’s hind hooves started to slide back as Torch exerted all his might. It was over in an instant, Celestia’s left hind hoof slipped out from under her and Torch seized the moment of weakness. With a sickening squelching sound, his claws came down; eviscerating the prone princess. Laying there, with her ribcage and innards fully exposed through the gouges left by the massive claws, Celestia didn’t notice.

Shining screamed in rage. The Princess, the immortal ruler of the sun, had fallen; Celestia was dead. Hearing the cry of outrage, Torch turned his attention to Shining Armor and Chrysalis, exhaling a boulder-melting plume of fire at the two.

Throwing up a magical shield for protection, Shining surrounded the two, however, Chrysalis had different plans. Racing through the protecting barrier of blue magic, Chrysalis boldly ran straight through the intense flames towards the fallen Princess.

Breathing hard from the insane amount of regeneration her pony form had undergone from the fire, Chrysalis arrived at Celestia’s side. She ran a hoof across the dead Alicorn, an expression of pure hatred on her face as she spoke to the corpse.

“I can’t begin to tell you how much I loathe you, Celestia. Even now, every fiber of my being is telling me to let you perish here, to be done with your sanctimonious ideals of peace and harmony.”

She paused as tears filled her eyes and began to steadily fall to the ground below.

“You’ve been nothing but a thorn in my side, and I should just leave you here, not my problem, right? I finally won. Right?”

Chrysalis sighed, the tears now cascading down her hate-filled face as she slowly powered up her magic.

“That may be what the Element of Disharmony wants. But that’s not what I want. That’s not what I, Queen Chrysalis, want.”

Shining Armor watched from behind his shield as Chrysalis's Unicorn horn glowed a bright acidic green with magic. Chrysalis’s face was nothing but contempt as a ball of glowing gold appeared above the downed Princess’s body. She spoke with malice, though her words told a different tale.

“You can’t fall here, Celestia; your sister’s brat still needs you. Miss Sparkle has already lost her mother, and I’ll be damned to Tartarus if she’ll lose you, too. Now, rise, and finish this fight. I call upon you, Princess Celestia!”

An explosion of magic issued forth from Chrysalis’s horn covering Celestia still form; slowly filling in the wounds as it crept over her body. Shining watched in utter shock as Celestia’s body healed completely, and the golden orb floated down into the Alicorn’s barrel.

Torch’s jaw dropped as Celestia’s eyes snapped open and she rose to her hooves, as though nothing had even happened. Once more, without a word, she locked her hooves in Torch’s claws and began straining like before; locking eyes with his own. But something was off.

Torch’s feet began to slide as he strained with all his strength, staring into Celestia’s normally amethyst eyes. Her eyes weren’t though, they had become pitch-black with barely pinpricks of light for pupils, unblinking and mocking his very being. Her mouth had turned into a cruel, cocky smile, sprouting fangs where her teeth should have been; sharpened and vicious.

That mane of the purity of the Aurora, stopped flowing gently, and instead began to crackle; the multi-hued mane seemingly catching fire. Bursting into an uncontrolled blaze, her mane and tail sizzling with burning intensity.

“What’s wrong, Dragonlord-”

Celestia threw back her head and cackled with malice, as the flames in her mane and tail began to criss-cross her body.

“Where is that Draconic bravado?”

Her flames grew more intense as she lifted up the 50-meter tall Dragon off the ground with her bare hooves. With a final shove, Celestia heaved the massive reptile to land in a stunned, prone position; sprawled out on his back, for all to see.

“Surely you aren’t struggling against this little pony?”

Celestia pulled her wings close to her body, the flames growing denser as she tensed her wing muscles. Her cackling turned into maniacal, shrieking laughter, as Chrysalis turned and ran towards Shining Armor yelling loudly.

“Get down! Now!”

Shining Armor was too stunned to move, not only was Celestia not dead and now she was seemingly stronger than before; on fire as well. He watched, paralyzed by shock, as Chrysalis ran full throttle towards him yelling frantically.

“Damn it, Captain, I said get down!”

A moment later Chrysalis tackled Shining to the ground, her horn glowing bright green as she lay on top of the prone stallion. Grumbling in frustration as she cast a spell, a layer of her magic surrounded them, just as Celestia unfurled her wings; a massive firestorm exploding out in every direction from the corrupted Alicorn.

The grassy meadow they had been in, was reduced to ashes by flames well over a hundred times that of molten lava; the ground splitting from the sheer heat. There was no time to scream; all caught in the blast were reduced to nothing. No bones, not even the Celestation Armor remained in sight.

Chrysalis pressed Shining Armor to her barrel, screaming in pain as the waves of solar flames started to break through the green shield she had put up. Shining suddenly grasped what was going on and he swiftly cast his own shield spell; one that was considered by many to be nigh indestructible. And still the storm of solar magic continued to explode across the now desolate plateau; boiling lava now emerging from beneath the cracking earth, spilling forth in a river of molten rock.

Giving a begrudgingly thankful smile, Chrysalis clutched Shining Armor tightly; making sure her exoskeleton, even in mare form, completely blocked the intense heat from reaching him. Together the two weathered the true, unbridled power of the Princess of the Sun. Rocks melted, all around them, and still they clung together beneath the magical shield as Ponies, Griffons, Yaks and even the lesser Dragons perished in the fiery nova.

Celestia stared at Torch, as he cowered behind his thick scaly arms, the Dragonlord desperately trying to shield his face from the flesh-melting heat; his scales blackened and seared. The inky black of her eyes slowly began receding, as though an inkwell was draining; slowly revealing the white corneas and amethyst irises of the Princess. She spoke in a haughty, cold voice.

“Remove yourself from this war, Torch.”

The flames all around the entire, now-lifeless, once-lush meadow, slowly pulled back like the waves of the ocean, back towards the princess; absorbing into her flesh on contact as she cackled coldly.

“Or next time-”

The eyes of the Princess had only a trace of inky blackness left, the flames of her mane and tail had begun to die down as the last of the fire on the battlefield flowed into her body. Her fangs had vanished and slowly she folded her wings; the colors of the Aurora resurfacing on her mane and tail as she spat with venom at the speechless Dragonlord.

“I won’t be as merciful.”

And with that, Princess Celestia was once again the pristine picture of regality; the light of mercy and kindness reappearing in her shining amethyst irises. She looked around at the devastation she had wrought, holding her head with her hoof in pain and confusion.

“Urgh my head, what happened?”

Celestia appeared dazed, as though she had just woken up from a horrible nightmare. Meanwhile Shining watched as Chrysalis raced to her side, feeding her a lie about how Shining Armor had watched her fall unconscious; unleashing a tremendous magic in her defense, his rage putting an end to the fight in one swift go.

Before he knew it, Celestia was awarding him with a medal of valor, with Chrysalis, Shining Armor, Torch, and Celestia being the only survivors of that bloody battle that Celestia could barely remember.

Shining glanced at Chrysalis as the medal was placed on him, and thought about how she had secretly convinced Torch to surrender. Her expression had never changed, but the Dragonlord’s face had been the pin-up of panic, twisted and forming a look of absolute terror, while he frantically begged Celestia to accept his surrender; after just five seconds of her whispers.

The scene faded, revealing Luna and Twilight, staring in disbelief at Celestia; the Alicorn’s eyes dilated in shock, rendered completely slack-jawed by what she had just witnessed. For once, the Princess of the Sun, considered the most perfect being in existence by nearly every being in Equestria, including her sister in secret, was at a loss for words.

At once, the silence was broken around the table, with loud commotions breaking out amongst the onlookers, while Celestia sat in broken, shocked silence. Celestia died? Is that really how the Dragonlands came to be? How could this be? Cadance, unlike the others, stayed oddly calm and quiet, while Luna slammed her hooves on the table, breaking a chunk off of it; which Starlight instinctually repaired immediately with her magic before anypony aside Twilight took notice. Twilight gave her a grateful smile, while Luna pointed and accusatory hoof at Discord, shouting in rage.

“This is blasphemy. You lie!”

Discord’s eyes narrowed, forcing the Alicorn to cower beneath his gaze. He spoke, but his voice wasn’t cordial or good-natured like usual. Instead, it was harsh, and for once extremely serious.

“I have changed nothing. What you have seen is Shining Armor’s own memories.”

Cadence, who had remained quiet, shouted above the din, causing the Crystal Castle they were in to tremble and quake.

“All of you, cease!”

The room fell silent, while Princess Cadance stood up and approached her husband, her voice soft and tender.

“Thank you honey, you’ve honored her memory. But I think you’ve shown enough. Let me take it from here.”

The Princess of Love watched Shining Armor take his seat after a gentle kiss on the cheek, before turning to Discord. She said just two words in the softest of tones, but the weight of those words were felt by all present. Cadance’s eyes burned in pain, with tears threatening to fall at any moment as she did so.

“My turn.”

Chapter 1: Chrysikai'd

“Chrysalis! Aj and Rarity need some aerial fire! Now!”

Standing on the crumbling ramparts of Canterlot’s Castle, Princess Twilight’s shout could be heard across the battlefield below; her own horn building up magic for another destructive, fiery blast. Beside Twilight, The Ex-Changeling Queen Chrysalis, who had transformed into a copy of Twilight’s alicorn form, had been blasting away as well.

“Understood Princess!”

Upon shouting confirmation of Twilight’s command, Chrysalis became a massive black dragon, roaring in rage. Rising swiftly into the air she blew a breath of emerald flame across the battlefield, incinerating the mysterious foes below.

Applejack and Rarity, who had been fighting back to back screamed their approval as the strange, slimy creatures surrounding them were incinerated.

“Yee-Haw!”

“That was marvelous Dah-ling!”

On the other side of the battlefield, Rainbow Dash hovered next to Tirek; the centaur, and the Pegasus trading barbs as they fought side by side.

“Watch yourself little pony, this is no ordinary foe.”

“Ha, just because you can’t fight, old man, doesn’t mean they can stop me.”

“You think I am too weak. I am Lord Tirek! Witness my might!”

With a fearsome roar, the centaur trampled and ripped apart the gooey opposition. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash, wielding a strange sword sliced and diced the enemies, laughing as they fell to the ground. At that moment Starlight, Pinkie Pie, and Cozy Glow rushed to their side. Cozy Glow, wielding Discord’s Chaotic might, stood as an Alicorn against their adversaries.

Pinkie teased her with a laugh as she slammed the hooves of a rock farmer into the slimy mess advancing towards them.

“If you can beat more than Twilight, I’ll bake you literally any pie you could want.”

With a malicious laugh, the chaotic being let loose with her gifted reality-bending chaos. Slimy monstrosities burst and splattered all around them, just as a blast from Chrysalis’s emerald fire incinerated the remains before they could reform.

The former villains and heroes alike worked side by side and for a moment it seemed like they would finally win, but then it happened. A single misstep allowed Rainbow’s hooves to end up inside the blackish slime.

“No! Rainbow!”

Twilight screamed in horror as she watched Rainbow scream in terror as the slime pulled her down into its gooey mass, before swallowing her entirely. the slime pulsed before a slimy ooze-covered replica of Rainbow Dash; now possessing all of her abilities and talents, rose from within.

“Rainbow Dash!”

Rarity and Applejack let out a simultaneous screech of pain. Often the two had vyed for Rainbow’s eye, neither had officially claimed the spot. Yet now, their rivalry was put on hold as the two unanimously charged towards the spot she had vanished.

Blinded by rage and the ringing sound of their hearts breaking, Rarity and Applejack ignored the puddles of ooze gathering around their hooves, as they continued forward, desperately struggling to reach their lost friend.

Again and again they screamed her name, ignoring the black, moorish tentacles wrapping around their hind legs, as they vainly surged forward; deeper and deeper into the gathering ooze. As the slime crept up their bodies and dragged them into its depths, they continued screaming for Rainbow Dash.

In absolute shock, Twilight and Chrysalis watched as their friends' mouths were filled with slime and with a last gurgle, sank into oblivion to join their friend. Afterwards, slimy, oozing replicas of both Rarity and Applejack rose from the villainous ooze and charged towards the remaining fighters, laughing in distorted voices filled with malice.

Tirek let out a roar as Fluttershy fell next.

“Damn it, Shy! I promised Discord I’d protect you!”

He furiously tore apart the goop in his way, storming towards her, but as he reached for her, it happened.

“Take my hand!”

Reaching out for him, she only had time to let out a squeak of dismay as her entire body was enveloped by a wave of the vile substance.

“No!”

As he screamed in utter rage, Tirek didn’t have long to come to grips with it, as a wave of gelatinous evil crashed over him, and just like that, the two were gone. Twilight watched as one by one the remaining fighters fell, pulled into the slimy, gooey depths.

As the newly formed slime construct copies of her friends coursed towards Twilight and Chrysalis, the former Changeling Villainess cried out.

“What do we do?”

Twilight had been furiously running calculations. There was no other choice. Her magic wrapped around the Ex- Queen, lifting her up towards a portal that she had opened.

“Twilight! What are you-”

Her words faltered as she saw the tear-filled eyes of the Princess of Friendship. Twilight knew what to do. She barely had any magic left, magic enough for one last spell. The ooze slithered over her hooves as she gave Chrysalis a final, caring smile. Chrysalis screamed out to her. This can’t be happening! Not now, they had finally…She finally had friends!

“Twilight!”

As Twilight was pulled into the slimy substance, she gave Chrysalis a magical shove into the portal, crying out.

“Please…Don’t forget us!”

And like that, Chrysalis vanished into the portal, leaving behind Equestria, her home, and her friends; now lost to a villainous substance known only as the Smooze. The last survivor of her realm, and the last words of her best friend still echoing in her ears.

***

“Twilight!”

Sitting bolt upright, Chrysalis let out a blood-curdling scream, frantically looking around. Her eyes surveyed her surroundings, she seemed to be inside some kind of large…Tent? Next to her was a strange cord that had prongs at the end. What in the world?

Chrysalis stared at it in confusion, not knowing what to make of the strange cord that seemed to come from the ground itself. Poking at it, she noticed it crackled with strange energy arcing between the two prongs. As she continued messing with it, the tent flap opened and the heavy hoofsteps of a pony caused her to look up. Her eyes widened in shock at what she saw.

A purple furred Alicorn stood there, staring back at her, the amethyst eyes shining brightly, with a mane of indigo and a tail to match. It can’t be… That’s when Chrysalis saw the mare’s cutie mark; a large star surrounded by six white smaller sparkles. The smallish Alicorn spoke to her.

“Oh goody, you’re recharged. Look Chrysalis we really need to tal-”

Before the words were finished, Chrysalis leaped from her resting mat and wrapped her hooves around the Alicorn, startling her.

“Talk? Chrysalis, what are you doing? Let go of m-”

Her words were cut off, as she heard Chrysalis sobbing and crying out to her.

“Twilight! Thank Celestia you’re alright! I thought you were gone forever! Please never leave me again!”

Twilight stood stock still, stunned by the words, as more hoofsteps could be heard clamoring behind her. Unable to think of any words, she silently wrapped a hoof around Chrysalis, as the latter continued to cry into her shoulder.

“Twilight? I love you and all, but I’ll deactivate you if you don’t stop all this noise; it’s disrupting my charging cyc- what? Chrysalis! What are you doing? Girls, Code Harmony, get in here!”

A lavender-furred Alicorn stood in the tent flap, originally blinking sleepily, now shouting outside to some unknown beings, her mane a soft violet with a seafoam green stripe, and on her flank was the almost faded image of a falling star.

Twilight stayed silent and just held Chrysalis with her one hoof, as several voices could be heard behind her; voices Chrysalis knew all too well. The Alicorn’s horn glowed with a fierce dark blue light as she issued commands; though her words were grainy, like an old tape player.

“On three, initiate beta delta formation. One…Two…”

Twilight spoke, her voice sweet yet distorted as she turned her head to look at Starlight and her friends.

“Belay that order. All units standby. She is fine. I will handle this.”

Chrysalis, lost in her tears, had completely missed this, but as soon as they quieted down, she heard Twilight whisper to her. Gentle and sweet, but almost as though a recording were being played.

“You are not the Chrysalis from this world, are you? From what I can see, you are a completely organic, non-metallic life form. The saline falling from your eyes onto my alchemical plating tells me you have been through much, and though I am glad you found solace in seeing Twilight again, I'm sorry to inform you; I’m not the Twilight you are looking for.”

That’s when Chrysalis noticed it, the whirling of mechanized gears and the hum of electrical components. It was very faint, but as she opened her eyes, she realized they were coming from Twilight’s barrel. Slowly, she tapped her hoof on Twilight’s back and a distinct chink of metal was heard. Fearfully she glanced at the mane and noticed it was translucent, and her hoof passed right through it; a hologram.

Startled, she let go and staggered back to stare at the mechanical Alicorn. She noticed that the eyes were shining like bulbs of light and every movement the Alicorn made caused a small chink and whirl of gears and servos. This machine looked like Twilight, but this was not Twilight; at least not the one she knew. Her voice dripping with trepidation, Chrysalis barely squeaked out.

“W-who are you?”

Chapter 13: Static and Dynamic Processes

Applejack listened to the world around her, as she watched as the pump that had once been Applebloom’s heart, gave a shudder; refusing to work. Over in the corner, on Rainbow Dash’s lap, sat not only Sweetie Belle but also Scootaloo; both having gone into sleep mode after hours of waiting for Applebloom. Rainbow’s battery had completely run out and a small charging cable connected her to a small charging mat. Loud snores erupted from all three. And it was music to Applejack’s audio receptors.

She treasured moments like this, moments when the children were at ease when Rainbow wore that stupid smile on her muzzle; when Rainbow actually relaxed. Focusing on her work, Applejack carefully split the pump in two before frowning.

This damage is too extensive, I can’t repair this. The battery that was fused to its side had ruptured, and now the inner workings of the pump were completely corroded by the acid.

Sighing, Applejack looked at her supply shelf. Replacing such a part was really not that big of a deal, having replaced Scootaloo’s own CPU and Sweetie Belle’s entire ocular display just hours ago. However, she had none in stock currently. And that meant Applebloom would take at least a few days more on her repairs.

Heading to the back of her tent, Applejack turned on a machine, that infused magic into technology. Activating the display screen, Applejack pulled up the latest pump schematic and stared at the display timer: 14 recharge cycles to replicate. Ugh, whatever, it is what it is. Just got to do what I can.

Applejack looked at her sister’s head resting on the side workbench, ready to go. Sorry sis, you’ll have to wait a little longer. Flicking a lever on the way out, Applejack turned the lights out in the backroom; the machine barely made a sound as it slowly built the pump, molecule by molecule.

***

“You will pay for what you did to Sombra. I will have my revenge! You are nothing against my might, Starlight Glimmer!”

The Unicorn, Twilight Sparkle, glared angrily at the Alicorn Starlight and her friends; around her neck was an ancient necklace with a red ruby embedded in the center. Her amethyst eyes glowed with a piercing red, and around her back, she wore a tattered cloak of black fabric; that flowed and swayed like liquid, almost as if made of the very shadows of the abyss.

Starlight stayed completely silent as Twilight blasted her, again and again, with malicious bolts of shadow magic. Not once did she try to protect herself as the magic exploded upon contact with her flesh.

Lost in thought, Starlight, the Alicorn Princess of Friendship, just stared at Twilight. She remembered attending classes with the insane Unicorn. She could recall that while not as strong as her, Twilight had easily surpassed the rest of the class. That the two had been rivals.

Starlight thought about their first battle, where Twilight had joined with Sombra to attack the Cyrstal Empire. Bitterly, Twilight had angrily yelled at her, telling her of her jealousy, of how it wasn’t fair. Why had she been chosen? So what if she was gifted? Twilight had worked far harder than Starlight to be Princess Luna’s Apprentice!

The two had fought many times since, and each time Starlight had extended the wing of friendship, only for Twilight to go down darker and darker paths. And now? Princess Luna lay unconscious amidst the rubble of the Royal Castle, innocents had been tortured to the breaking point and then slaughtered without mercy. Her own friends, who had stood by her since the night Celestia in the guise of Daybreaker had returned from the sun in which she’d been sealed, now lay maimed, and bruised.

Starlight narrowed her eyes in a furious rage. She had tried typical Friendship, now, however, Starlight would explain it to her, in the only way Twilight understood.

“So this power of yours makes you stronger? Do you think that because I’m not attacking, I must be weaker than you?”

Twilight laughed.

“If you could have stopped me, you would have by now!”

“Oh, really?”

Barely causing her horn to glow, Starlight turned towards a nearby rockface; reducing the entire mountain to ashes in an intense blast of light blue magic, causing Twilight to stare, slackjawed at the smoking landscape. She stammered in disbelieving shock.

“B-but if you could do that, why didn’t you stop me?”

Flaring her wings and glowing with untold power, Starlight shouted at Twilight as she charged up her horn.

“Because I still care about you, you idiot!”

***

Starlight’s eyes flew open, her LEDs flickering to life as she swiftly looked around; the world once more came into view. How long have I been out? Where’s Twilight?

She was in a tub of some kind of sloshing viscous fluid. Her sensors told her it was mineral oil. Huh? Oh, that’s right. My day off. Damn you, Twilight.

Leaning her head back with a sigh, Starlight let her limbs go limp in the tub, listening to the soothing sloshing of its contents. You’re too good to me. A smile graced her muzzle at the thought of the dream she had; the moment Twilight had gone from destroyer to lover. That memory was the one she treasured most; even above her own ascension. That moment, was why she still smiled.

Turning to the side, Starlight saw the pale yellow Pegasus leaning against a white metallic Unicorn on a charging mat in the corner. Both were jacked in and gentle whimpers from the Pegasus seemed to reach the powered down form of Rarity. As Starlight watched, Rarity wrapped a hoof around Fluttershy, pulling her close against her metallic body; after which Fluttershy’s wings wrapped around Rarity.

The Princess smiled at the sight. Even in their powered-down form, both were still looking out for each other. She couldn’t feel their emotions, she couldn’t really even see them if it wasn’t for her sensors. And yet, she still recognized those movements. She still remembered what those smiles meant; the same smiles that Twilight and Starlight had shared long ago, back when they could still truly feel each other.

Even in this nightmarish world, even in this Pit of Tartarus, they still find love and friendship within themselves to share with others. Tilting her head back once more, Starlight felt pride swell within her. As it should be. This world has changed so much, and myself as well. And then there’s her…Hard to believe Twilight was the one that…

***

Chrysi’s LEDs flashed in absolute surprise. Had she heard that right? The Twilight Sparkle of this world, this benevolent creature who had taken her in, that she now called mom, had once been a villain?

“Wait a moment, mom are you saying you actually destroyed the entire Crystal Empire?”

“That’s right. Though, that was a lifetime ago.”

Twilight chuckled at the memory as Chrysi asked her, what happened.

“I was defeated by Starlight, and she showed me just how weak I really was, and how seeking a jealous revenge was a useless notion.”

“What, did she give you some grandiose friendship speech?”

Twilight’s answer sent chills down Chrysi’s massive Draconic form.

“No, she beat me to within an inch of my life, without even trying.”

It wasn’t spoken with bitterness, sadness, or regret. Instead, it almost sounded to Chrysi like Twilight really appreciated it. Twilight then added.

“And that’s how Starlight and I started dating.”

For what seemed like days, Chrysi and Twilight continued discussing their two realities; the differences, the similarities. How Twilight got her wings, how Flurry Heart was born. It was shocking to Chrysi to hear how at one time, each of the Elements of Harmony had actually been vile destroyers.

Rarity had once been a horrific nightmare that wrought plagues upon the populace. Applejack had been a swindler, obsessed with gold to the point of extortion, kidnapping, and even murder. Happy-go-lucky Pinkie Pie? A serial killer who ate her victims with icing. Sweet, innocent Fluttershy had even fed inhabitants to her monstrous Chimeras.

Even Rainbow Dash had run a factory in Cloudsdale that disposed of Pegasi who failed their flight exams; using their innards to paint the sky with vibrant hues as a reminder to the rest. All had been villains turned heroines by Starlight’s actions. Like Twilight, herself.

They discussed what had been, what is, and it had brought them closer together. Chrysi felt a surprisingly growing kinship with this Twilight. Both had once been villains, both had seen the errors of their ways. Though one query was still etched on her hard drive, and Chrysi decided to ask it.

“I have to know, why adoption? Why the insistence on me being your daughter?”

Chapter 24: Fluttershy Instinct.EXE

Twilight silently stood in the virtual doorway with a warm smile. Fluttershy’s eyes twitch and fluttered. Curled up in a ball with a stuffed teddy bear, she sucked peacefully on her wingtip, deep in sleep. Twilight’s mind replayed memories of the past back before Fluttershy married Discord, back before she tortured others, back before she was a Pegasus. Back when Fluttershy was nothing more than a mangy dog.

Flying above the treeline of the Everfree on a pair of new wings, Twilight thought about what she had overheard the oracle tell her mentor; Lord Sombra.

Five to destroy the shadows, huh? One with a silver tongue, another taking what she wants, one who is self-centered, one who is nature-minded, and the youngest who is outside of time. Quite the riddle, what in the world?

On the pathway down below, A Pegasus Mare was walking next to a stallion and a little fledgling on a…

Leash? Why is that filly on a leash? Pausing in her flight, Twilight dropped down to sit on a tree limb and observe. the strange sight below intrigued her and…Did that filly just bark?

Twilight’s eyes narrowed as the pieces fell into place when the mare placed a water dish on the ground and the filly eagerly slurped at the lukewarm water, complementing the action.

“Good girl.”

Twilight’s felt her rage rising within her. Those scum! They’re using a filly as a common mongrel. Aristocrats of Canterlot were known for buying slaves at auctions and breaking their minds to turn them into pets; some had mares or stallions, and a few had dragons or griffons through Blackmarket listings. As a noble-born, Twilight was no stranger to the idea of pet training mares or stallions, but watching a filly enduring it, made her blood boil.

Her eyes glinted with destruction as the amulet around her neck pulsed a ruby red, and in an instant, it was over. A radiating blast of red glowing light, and the mare and stallion lay unmoving on the ground; though the filly seemed unbothered, not moving a muscle.

Dropping down, Twilight used her magic to dissolve the leash that bound the butter-furred fledgling to the now-dead mare. Growling at the filly, Twilight said.

“You’re free, go home. Get out of here, before I kill you too.”

The filly just tilted its head in confusion, as though it didn’t understand a word Twilight had said. Twilight tried again.

“I said get out of here!”

In response, the filly lifted its hind leg and kicked at her ear as though scratching it. Twilight stared incredulously at the strange filly. Couldn’t she understand what Twilight was saying?

“Ruff!”

Watching the young Pegasus wiggle her flank to shake her tail, Twilight got a sinking feeling in her gut. Something was wrong. Her suspicions were confirmed when the filly’s stomach began to rumble and she whimpered, looking around her.

The filly gently nosed the dead mare, pushing the corpse lightly as though trying to wake it up. She did this for a few minutes before ceasing and opening her jaws; showcasing the sharpened fangs that looked like they had been filed by a blade.

Minutes later, Twilight stumbled over to the nearby bushes and heaved; again and again, as the filly sat there, panting. Happily wagging her tail, the young Pegasus’s tongue licked her now-crimson-stained fangs amidst the glistening bones of her former walkers.

Relieved of the contents of her stomach, Twilight wiped a hoof across her muzzle before turning to stare at the filly; who was now gnawing voraciously on the edge of a bone, still wagging her tail.

Nothing but an animal. Alright, then.

With her horn aglow with chaotic magic, Twilight cast a spell upon herself, letting it envelop her, and in a flash, it was over. Twilight turned to face the filly and opened her muzzle.

“Can you hear me?”

Letting the bone drop from her jaws, the little filly giggled and rolled over excitedly.

“Who are you? Did you come to play with me?”

Standing on her large furry paws, Twilight inwardly smiled as her tail wagged. Her spell had worked. Struggling to keep her new form from rushing over and grabbing a bone herself, Twilight nodded. Barking loudly, she proclaimed.

“My name’s Twilight and I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

“Tiwi- Ti-Tli-”

The filly looked confused as she tried to pronounce Twilight’s name. Twilight wasn’t sure why she was doing this; it was just another filly with the short straw in life, right? Still, she couldn’t help but feel this one was special somehow. Twilight smiled gently and said the first thing that came to mind.

“Just call me Mamabear.”

“Ma..ma?”

“Mamabear.”

An expression of excitement glinted in the filly’s baby blue eyes

“Mama!”

A certain warmth filled Twilight, a mother? Her? She smiled silently as she choked back a tear. For some reason, even after all her atrocities, denying this filly was something she just couldn’t bring herself to do.

“Yes. Yes, little one, I’m Mama. And what is your name?”

The filly looked confused for a moment before muttering.

“Name? Name? I…”

The filly had a sad look cross her face as she whimpered pitifully.

“Don’t have a name, mama.”

That did it. Twilight’s heart of ice shattered right then and there. There was something about the innocent way the filly called her mama that completely disarmed her; her rage, her hatred towards Ponykind, all of it just dissolved as the adorable little filly stared hopefully at her. Gesturing to her with a fur-covered paw, Twilight pulled the filly in for a nuzzle as she whispered.

“Well then, my little cub, let’s give you one.”

I knew it right away, my little cub. Twilight smiled at the sleeping Pegasus, tears glistening in her eyes. I saw how you had been ensorcelled to leave behind your pony self, at such a young age. And so I took you under my wing, raised you as my own.

“Come on Shy, show mama what you’ve learned.”

The butter-colored Pegasus mare gripped the jagged bone knife in her jaws, as Twilight patiently watched her circle a tied-up prisoner. Shy leaped on the prisoner, snarling and growling as the unbridled screams of terror tore themselves from the victim's throat.

Twilight nodded, shouting encouragement, as Shy drew the blade’s tip across the victim, leaving red dripping lines in its wake.

“That’s my little cub. Remember, slowly and deliberately; that is how a life is taken. Waste no movement and instill fear with each moment.”

The victim screamed rapidly about their willingness to talk, but Twilight shook her head.

“Remember little cub, that first shout only means they will say anything to stop the pain, we want the truth. And to get it, we will drain them to within an inch, until they are ringing death’s doorbell. Only then, can we be certain of getting the truth. Continue on, sweetie.”

Walking up beside Twilight, a black unicorn with a low guttural voice spoke up.

“She is learning fast.”

With pride, Twilight beamed.

“Yes, she is a quick learn-”

“Get rid of her.”

The words were like a knife through her heart as she stood there speechless. Sombra continued without mercy.

“She’s too clever, and supposedly she will be party to my destruction. I want her taken care of. Tonight. It’s her or you.”

Twilight and Shy walked side by side in the Everfree, Twilight’s mind racing, how could she- she had raised Shy from just a filly, just a little cub. Her little cub. Her filly. On all four paws, she strode effortlessly as she walked beside her adopted daughter, her heart heavy with the impossible decision she was about to make.

Her amulet glowed brightly with a blinding cherry red magic. With a groan amidst the bright red flash, Shy sank to the ground as Twilight stood there; tears streaming down her face. With a choked sob, Twilight wrapped her daughter’s still form within her magic and the two vanished from sight.

Tears poured like raindrops onto the parchment as Twilight penned a final letter to the one she never thought she would.:

Starlight, I hate you. I’ve always hated you, but now this is bigger than me. This is my daughter, though she’ll never remember that, thanks to an amnesia spell. Please train her, teach her the Element of Cruelty, teach her to be a normal Pegasus. So much has gone on and now Sombra wants her dead and I, can’t bring myself to do that to my little cub. I beg of you, no plead with you, to look after her. As if she were your own.

-Twilight Sparkle

“Shy, bring her down!”

Starlight’s shout echoed through the torrential downpour and vicious winds. Snarling and growling, the now fully grown mare leaped at the Dragon Emperess who was flying above the group. Spreading her wings, the Pegasus lunged with her trusty bone dagger, slicing through scales and tendons; shearing the wing clear off. The traitor; Ember of the Dragonlands; Sombra’s Right Claw, came crashing to the ground and a cheer went up from the six watching; the five on the ground and Twilight who was hovering high above, out of sight:

“Thata girl. That’s my little cub.”

Quietly trotting into the room, Twilight sat next to Fluttershy’s bed; running a hoof through her mane. You’ve been through so much, and I couldn’t be prouder of the mare you’ve become. Smiling, Twilight gingerly tucked in her estranged daughter, before standing up and leaving the virtual room. Behind her, she heard the sleepy mumbling of Fluttershy.

“Night, mama.”

Smirking with a bit of pride, Twilight noticed her recharge gauge was flashing full.

“Well now, I suppose I should go see how Starlight is doing. After all, two weeks is long enough for her to wait for me to be rebuilt.”

Chapter 30- Flurry of Emotions

Flurry Heart sat with her back to the stone statue of Equestria’s once mightiest villains, her head in her hooves. It had been thirty minutes since she had mustered the strength to say the words she had longed to say for the past few months and all she could do was sob uncontrollably. The mascara on her eyelashes ran down her cheeks as the tears poured forth. She hated everyone, she hated herself.

She was the Princess of Love, she was one of the strongest rulers in the history of the Crystal Empire; yet she felt as brittle as glass. Born an Alicorn, a feat never before witnessed, many expectations had been levied upon the mare since her birth, and being raised by a single parent had only intensified the stress upon her.

She had come here seeking answers, and now she wasn’t even able to ask the questions. What was wrong with her? Why was she so weak? And even if she asked, what answers had she expected a stone statue to provide?

Angrily she tossed her head back, the stinging pain of a collision with the rough hewn stone greeting her, but she didn’t care. She ignored it and bitterly wrapped her wings around her body, feeling lost, hopeless.

Mom, what would you do?

Princess Cadance gingerly brushed her daughter’s mane, her brow furrowed with a deadpan expression. Her body was tensed up, ready to move in an instant, a bead of sweat making its way down her muzzle. Still, she attempted to remain calm as she slowly lowered the now 18 month old Flurry Heart into a little bassinet; the air growing colder around her.

The massive iron doors to the throne room balcony cracked and groaned as the metallic surface was slowly coated in a creeping layer of ice. And yet, Cadence paid it no mind, instead leaning down to give the now giggling infant a loving kiss. Brushing the little foals mane out of her eyes, Cadance whispered to her as her eyes welled up.

“Mama loves you, Flurry. Mama will always love you.”

A flash of magic appeared in front of her throne, revealing the two celestial princesses barely able to stand. Celestia’s fur matted with a dark sickly red, while Luna had crisscross slashes running up and down her hide. On the exhausted Celestia’s back lay the unconscious form of Twilight Sparkle, a crimson red dripping from the crack in her skull, slowly pooling on the stone floor below.

Though barely clinging to life, Twilight whispered over and over.

“No! Applejack, Rarity, they’re gone. Fluttershy stay back, don’t do it! No. It can’t be! All gone. It’s all my fault. I…couldn’t…stop… them.”

Cadance glanced up at them, but only for a moment before rising from her throne. Averting her gaze from the injured princesses, she turned to look at her husband. Shining Armor, wielding a spear, had been shouting commands at the royal guards, all while the blood chilling screams in the courtyard suddenly fell silent.

“Shining.”

Stopping mid-command, Shining Armor locked eyes with his wife. Her words were spoken in a loving tone, but her eyes told another story. Furrowed in concern, her eyes shone with a rage, never before seen. Her body shook as though she were chilled to the bone.

“Take Flurry Heart. Get to safety.”

Shining opened his mouth to speak, but Cadance just shook her head. Repeating herself, her gentle words took on a snarling growl.

“Shining, take Flurry Heart. Get to safety. Now.”

Shining Armor closed his mouth, never once had he seen Cadance lose her temper, nopony had. He just watched the waves of rage roiling in her eyes for less than a second, before turning to pick up the bassinet and set it on his back via levitation magic.

“Take this with you, Shining. Give it to her when it’s time.”

Cadance slowly reached up and removed her coronet, before reaching out to place it in his outstretched hoof. He looked down at the crystalline crown, then back at his wife.

“Cadance?”

Princess Cadance had already turned away, tears staining the stone flooring with each step she took.

“Go. Protect her. I’m counting on you. And Flurry? Be a good filly for daddy.”

In silence she continued towards the main doors, as Luna cried out.

“You can’t win!”

Spreading her wings, Cadance’s mane, tail and feathers had taken on the appearance of a pink, yellow, and lavender raging inferno. She spoke just two words as she took off and flew through the open doors to her castle.

“I know.”

Minutes later, Flurry Heart cooed gently in her sleep, having been rocked to sleep by the rhythmic galloping of her fathers hooves. Shining Armor raced away from the Crystal Empire as fast as possible, his face completely blank. On either side of him, Luna and Celestia galloped at his side; the wings of both having been rendered useless.

Half a mile from the Crystal Castle, Shining’s legs began to tremble; his strength completely sapped. He stopped and panted heavily, the icy winds of winter tearing at his hide. That’s when his ears picked up the shout. A frantic scream, of just two words, that radiated across the landscape.

“FLURRY HEART!”

Across the entirety of Equestria it was heard, the fabled Canterlot Voice. Even though the vicious winter winds of the Wendigos whipped and howled, the shout rang out clear as crystal. Shining Armor turned towards the source, and his eyes beheld a bright spec of light. The light glowed and appeared to glow brighter as it radiated outward in a blast of pink magic.

The blast grew larger and larger still, shattering the Crystal Castle into rubble and debris and still it grew larger. It tore through the clouds creating a hole in the storm above the Crystal Empire, before fading into nothing.

An agonizing pain tore through Shining’s heart as the light vanished. His head dropped down and his eyes were hooded over. It was over, he knew. Cadence had won. The winter winds slowed down, before halting altogether, and a gentle rain began to fall.

The rain was warm, soft and comforting, like a warm hug. Tears welled in Shining’s eyes until he could no longer contain them, streaming down in a deluge of heartbreak. She was gone. Cadance was gone.

On his back, a sleeping Flurry Heart was startled awake by the drops falling on her. She cooed in curiosity before whimpering. That whimpering turned to bawling as the little foal looked around in frantic distress, looking for something. Something she couldn’t find.

It was then the tiny Alicorn stretched her hooves up to the sky, staring up at the heavens and cried out her first word.

“Mama!”

Flurry Heart couldn’t really remember her mother, though she had been told many times the story of how her mom ended the war between the Wendigos and the inhabitants of Equestria. Her mother had sacrificed everything, just to save her.

She often tried to depict her mom in her mind. Sadly, due to the castle being destroyed, any portraits of Cadance had vanished into the Aether. While growing up, Flurry Heart often tried to picture her in her mind when she sought inner strength.

She envisioned a tall, almost Amazonian build of an Alicorn, strong, agile and imposing. A commanding nature that could make others kneel simply by being in her presence. Perhaps she was even a goddess like Flurry’s great aunts, Celestia and Luna; able to wield unfathomable power. Hers being the power of love.

This image gave Flurry Heart a surge of confidence. Unfolding her wings, she slowly stood up and gritted her teeth, pushing herself to rise to her hooves. Everycreature had told her she was the spitting image of her mother, and she knew that her mother wouldn’t balk at such a challenge, and neither would she. She whispered to herself.

“Ok, Flurry. You can do this.”

She turned around and stared at the statue. She had no idea why she was doing this or if it would do any good. Yet, she felt she needed to. This was it. She narrowed her green eyes in determination. It was now or never.

Raising her hoof, Flurry once more placed it on the visage of Chrysalis, the First Changeling. In a voice that boomed across the room, she spoke confidently as she loudly proclaimed.

“Hey, Mom!”

She quickly tried to add more but her voice became squeaky. No, I can't falter! I need to do this! Clearing her throat she loudly spoke up.

“It’s your daughter. It’s Flurry Heart.”

She leaned against the statue. Her trembling hooves gave out from under her, her legs turning to jelly from exhaustion. She threw her back against the statue, breathing heavily. Flurry’s barrel heaved in breathless anxiety. Her rapid breathing grew steadier and steadier, her mind overloaded with euphoric relief.

She had done it! She had finally said it out loud. She threw back her head in excitement, ignoring the sharp pain of the hewn stone. She found herself staring into the stone eyes of Chrysalis, lifeless and dead.

Now what?