The Young Warrior: Ocellus's Path

Chapters

A New Path For Me To Take
Injuries and Encounters
Overhearing Conversations
Choices, And Their Results
My Path Led Me Here
Epilogue: Off Into The World

A New Path For Me To Take

Ocellus sighed softly in relief as she walked over to Cilia-medica. The kind drone led her off as the apprentice ceremony finished, a smile on her face.

“I know it can be a little scary, I’m sure even more so if you have to do it for the second time.” Cilia told her soothingly.

“I’m just glad I don’t have to be a warrior apprentice anymore.” Ocellus sighed as Cilia led her to the medic’s infirmary. “Though I’m ashamed it took me this long to decide I was better suited here. I’m nearly thirteen.”

“It’s alright Ocellus. Sometimes it takes a while before anyone is sure about what the correct path for them to take is.” Cilia responded.

“Well, I’m lucky you waited until I decided before choosing an apprentice. Thank you, Cilia-medica.”

“Of course Ocellus, it’s no trouble. Not many nymphs are interested in the life of a medic, as you know.” Cilia walked over to a storage area and pulled out a few different bundles of leaves. Ocellus recognized them as the herbs Cilia had asked her to study up on before the official placement ceremony. “Let’s begin right away, shall we?”

“Alright!” Ocellus said, rearing up onto the stone slab the medics used as a table in order to get a better look.

“Do you know the basic herbs and what they do?”

“I think so.”

“Let’s test that. What does this plant do?” The adult female held up a hairy-looking leaf with an expectant arched brow.

“That’s borage. If eaten it will increase nectar in expecting females and can also help bring down fevers.”

“Correct. This one?” She held up a flowering plant similar to a dandelion.

“Coltsfoot. Helps shortness of breath.”

“Very good Ocellus!” Cilia told her cheerfully, then continued on with the quiz, simply holding up the plants.

“Dock leaves, chewed into a poultice, they’ll soothe scratches. Feverfew, it cools down fevers. Marigold, stops infection. Poppy seeds, soothe shock and pain, but also cause fatigue. Stinging Nettles, dispel poison and bring down swelling.” Ocellus recited each from memory, pleased that her mentor made no efforts to correct her and proud she was managing to get each one right.

But then, Cilia held up a strange flowering plant that she didn't quite recognize. Ocellus hesitated, she was sure this must have been in the medicine books, but she couldn't for the life of her recall what it was.

“Um… is it…” she wracked her brain for anything that she remembered was like this plant. A couple herbs flowered, from what she could recall. “Tansy? It cures coughs if eaten, right?”

“Tansy does cure coughs, Ocellus, but this isn't tansy, and it had better not be swallowed.” Cilia reprimanded gently, laying the herb on the table before the nymph. “This is yarrow. We use it to expel poison from wounds, but if you swallow it, it will make you vomit. You don’t want to accidentally make a patient sick.”

“Oh… I’m sorry.”

“No, no, don’t apologize, Ocellus. It’s good you didn’t know, that means I can teach you.” Cilia said, smiling. “Let’s continue, shall we?”

“Alright.”

After Cilia quizzed her on the rest of the plants, Ocellus went back to her den. She laid down in the hollowed out divot in the ground, closing her eyes. She smiled happily, going over the herbs again in her head, as Cilia had mentioned that she’d be double-checking that she'd remembered everything the next day. It was a lot to remember, after all, but Ocellus was certain she’d be able to recite them properly next time.

“Now, watch carefully Ocellus.” Cilia said, and Ocellus stepped closer

The two medics were out at the edge of the territory, in the small wooded area. Many days of training had passed since her official apprenticing, and Cilia had dubbed Ocellus ready to come collect herbs with her. Together, they had headed out into the scarce trees, intent on restocking their supply of herbs. The two each carried a small basket, now already halfway filled with herbs. Cilia was using her magic to carefully break off a few stems of what Ocellus recognized as thyme.

“You only want to take enough for each plant so that you have a decent amount combined. Make sure to always leave plenty of leaves on the plant so it can grow back.” Cilia informed her.

Ocellus nodded diligently, and Cilia gestured for her to try. Ocellus looked around, then spotted some marigold. She walked over and carefully plucked a couple petals and leaves, setting them down in her basket.

“Very good Ocellus.” Cilia said, nodding approvingly. “Now, do you know what we do when herbs are wet?”

“Lay them out in the sun to dry-”

“Cilia-medica!”

The sudden cry made them both turn around, in time to see Thorax, one of the Princes, rushing up to them.

Ocellus stared at the cyan-carapaced changeling, observing him quietly. She had never personally met either of the Princes before, only knowing their names through common knowledge. Pharynx-dominus was largely viewed as stern and commanding, typical seeing as he was the Head General. Thorax, the Rankless One, as many referred to him, appeared a lot gentler, and Ocellus had heard he was especially good with the nymphs. However, at the moment Ocellus could taste only concern and fear coming off the Prince as he emerged from the trees, which she doubted meant anything good.

“My Prince, what is the trouble?” Cilia asked

“P-Pharynx-dominus, he got caught in some kind of snare trap, pony-made by the look of it, while he was hunting with Apex-discipulus. He got out of it easily, but his back hoof is hurt, he can’t walk.” Thorax gasped out.

“Lead the way, my Prince.” Cilia said, and he nodded, turning preparing to lead them through the forest. “Come along Ocellus, this will be a good practical lesson, and don’t forget the herbs.”

Ocellus nodded, scooping up both their herb baskets in her magic, a surge of joy rushing through her. She felt slightly guilty for feeling excited about this, of course, the Head General being hurt was nothing to be happy about. But she would finally get to see a medic’s skills in action for a real injury! So far, Cilia had only treated the odd scrape or tumble, this would be the first serious injury Ocellus would learn to treat!

Author's Note

Welcome to Ocellus's Path! Hope you enjoyed chapter one!

~Melody Song

Injuries and Encounters

Thorax led them through the thinly spread trees, most barren despite being late summer. It was this way due to the Hive’s presence, Ocellus knew this. The throne that drained the magic of their enemies combined with their own natural love draining had ruined any hope of proper vegetation in their territory. For a moment she envied the soldiers who went out to war. They at least got a chance to see green leaves on trees, and other wonders Ocellus only dreamt of.

She should know. Her parents had told her stories of the things they had seen. That is, before her mother went out hunting and did not return. Her patrol had been attacked by a Tatzelwurm. Ocellus’ father had passed away not long after, due to an infected wound. Ocellus had still been a warrior apprentice at the time, and they had left behind her siblings, two little nymphs now only three years old. Ocellus was glad they were in the care of the nursery drones, she couldn’t imagine having to raise her siblings herself.

“Ocellus! Hurry or you’ll be left behind!” Cilia called back to her, and Ocellus blinked, realizing she’d been slowing down, lost in her thoughts.

“Sorry!” Ocellus cried, rushing forward to keep pace, her hooves pounding on the sandy ground beneath her. Encouraged by Cilia’s cry, the nymph franticlly caught up with her mentor and the younger of the two Princes, heading to the aid of the elder Prince.

—--------------------

“Here!” Thorax stopped at last, coming to stand beside a young nymph Ocellus recognized as Apex-discipulus, the lucky youngling who Pharynx-dominus had chosen to apprentice.

Laying on the ground, trying and failing to stand, was Pharynx-dominus himself. Ocellus noticed that one of his hind hooves was slightly swollen, and there was a thin indention in his chitin, likely where the snare trap had been. Cilia strode over and placed a hoof on Pharynx-dominus’ shoulder, forcing him down.

“Lie still or I will not be able to help you, Pharynx-dominus.” she told him briskly.

“Thorax is overreacting, Cilia-medica, I’m fine.”

“You’re fine when I say you are.” Cilia snapped at him, and for a moment Ocellus forgot that Cilia was actually the same age as Pharynx-dominus. He glared at her, but lowered himself down. “Good. Now, Ocellus, come here and help me diagnose the injury.”

“Careful!” Thorax called, stopping Ocellus as she tried to move. “That’s where the snare was.” he told her, pointing at the base of a tree she was about to step by.

“Good eye my Prince, we don’t need another hurt changeling.” Cilia remarked, beckoning for Ocellus to steer clear of the trees. Ocellus trotted over, cautiously skirting each tree.

Once Ocellus had reached her, Cilia knelt down to observe the injury, Ocellus bending her knees to join her, as she was a rather lanky nymph. Cilia gently poked Pharynx’s injured hoof with her own hoof, and he let out a hiss.

“Good, it’s not broken.” Cilia said simply, then turned to Ocellus. “What do you think, Ocellus-discipula?”

“U-Um, w-well…” Ocellus examined the hoof. “There’s a little bit of swelling, but since Pharynx-dominus was able to feel pain when you touched it… I’d assume a sprain.”

“Precisely.” Cilia commended her. “Now, what do we do to treat it?”

“Um… make a poultice of comfrey and wrap his hoof?”

“Good. Anything else?”

Ocellus looked at the ground nervously, thinking. “...Water soaking and poppy seeds?”

“Yes. Though with the poultice, water soaking most likely won’t be needed this time. Poppy seeds are proper treatment, but only if he consents to them, of course.” Cilia glanced at Pharynx.

“I’d rather keep my head clear, if it’s all the same to you.” Pharynx said gruffly.

“Very well then. I’d recommend getting some just to help you sleep tonight, in any case.” Cilia told him. “Ocellus, the herbs?”

Ocellus pulled some comfrey out of the herb baskets, and Cilia took it.

“Good. Now, while I make a poultice, find some cobwebs to wrap his hoof.”

Ocellus nodded and walked carefully over to the trees, finding some cobwebs in the roots of one of the trees. She carried it over just as her mentor finished applying the poultice to the injury. Ocellus offered her the cobweb, but Cilia shook her head.

“How about you try?” she suggested, and Ocellus gulped nervously, before leaning down and stretching out the cobweb.

Pharynx seemed to understand what she was doing, he carefully lifted his leg slightly so she could wrap the cobweb around it. Ocellus wound the cobweb around his hoof, careful not to smear the poultice. She finished after a minute, securing the cobweb by tucking it in around the edges.

“Good job Ocellus-discipula. Pharynx-dominus, how’s that?”

“Fine.” He said, sitting up and carefully standing.

Ocellus noticed that he seemed to favor his injured hoof, limping slightly as he walked to his brother and apprentice. She glanced at Cilia, who gave her a gentle nod, telling her she had seen it as well.

“I would recommend returning to the Hive for the day, Pharynx-dominus.” Cilia said.

“I have an apprentice to train.” Pharynx replied sharply.

“Surely there are some things you could teach him without needing to put too much tension on your hoof.” Cilia retorted calmly. “It will heal by tomorrow if you rest it.”

“Fine.” Pharynx grunted. “Thorax, take Apex-discipulus back to the Hive. Cilia-medica, a word?”

Cilia nodded, then turned to Ocellus. “Wait here Ocellus-discipula, we’ll only be a minute.”

Ocellus nodded in understanding, gathering up the herb baskets. Cilia and Pharynx disappeared a little ways away in the trees. Ocellus began lifting herbs up in her magic, she might as well begin to sort a few of them while she waited.

“You did really well.” Thorax’s voice caught her attention, and she looked up at him.

“I did?”

“Yeah.” Thorax said, pausing in front of her, allowing Apex-discipulus to climb onto his back, which he either ignored or didn’t notice. “You remembered that stuff really well. I can hardly remember the Hive’s layout.”

“Oh… thank you…” Ocellus whispered, and Thorax smiled.

“No problem. You’re going to be a great medic.” He said it to her so sincerely, optimism in every word, Ocellus couldn’t help smiling.

“Thorax, I told you to go ahead.” Pharynx-dominus said sharply as he and Cilia returned.

“I thought you might want a little help, you’re limping.” Thorax said

“I can handle it, Thorax.” he told him sternly, flicking his tail at his brother. “Let’s go.”

“Y-Yes Pharynx.” Thorax said, following his brother away. As they passed the two medics, Pharynx-dominus looked over at Ocellus, giving her a brief nod before continuing on.

“Oh, you’ve begun sorting the herbs, good work.” Cilia noted, and Ocellus nodded. “Come along, let’s continue looking for some more for a little while and then head back.”

Ocellus smiled slightly and stood up. The two began heading off through the trees. Cilia glanced at Ocellus.

“You noticed how Pharynx-dominus was limping?”

“Yes.” Ocellus said, ears folding back. “I didn’t mean to draw attention-”

“No, Ocellus.” Cilia stopped her from continuing. “Observations like that are good for a medic, it can mean the difference between a sore throat or pneumonia.”

Ocellus nodded in understanding, and Cilia rubbed her back with a hoof.

“You have the makings of a great medic, Ocellus. You simply need more confidence. The talent and natural ability of memorization are there, the calm nature is there. You only need to learn to be more sure of yourself.”

Ocellus nodded again, before following her mentor through the trees in search of more herbs. As they walked, Ocellus thought about what her mentor had said. Confidence. How was she supposed to learn that?

Overhearing Conversations

Ocellus took a breath, trying to calm herself as she and Cilia moved among the warriors. Pharynx-dominus was leading the remaining warriors out to a town called Ponyville, to aid a troop that had failed in an attempt to raid the town. Cilia and Ocellus would be going with them, leaving another medic, Needle-medicus, in charge of their stores.

Ocellus had never met Needle-medicus before, he usually operated on the front, but he had been the one who had returned to the Hive with information of the failed raid, and he was injured. So Ocellus and Cilia would go with these warriors in his place, Cilia because she was the only other medic, Ocellus because she was her apprentice and duty bound to follow her. They were currently giving the warriors traveling herbs, which Ocellus had never made before the previous night.

“That’s everyone.” Cilia said, passing Ocellus her own bundle. “Here. I had mine already. Eat it and recite the ingredients.”

Ocellus put the herbs in her mouth and chewed, finishing and swallowing before speaking. By then, the warriors were on the move with Pharynx-dominus in the lead, and she and Cilia were trotting at the back of the pack.

“Chamomile, burnet, daisy leaves, and sorrel.” Ocellus recited, and Cilia nodded in approval.

“Are you scared?” Cilia asked, and Ocellus nodded. “It’s alright. The warrior drones will protect us, and we won’t have to go out onto the battlefield itself.”

“O-Okay.” Ocellus said nervously. Cilia gave her a comforting nuzzle.

“You’ll be fine, Ocellus. Remember, confidence.”

“Don’t forget the bark, Ocellus.” Cilia told her apprentice. “We need to wrap the bundles in them or they fall apart.”

“Yes ma’am.” Ocellus said, using a strip of the named bark to tie the bundle of dock leaves together. She watched as Cilia took the bundle and stored it in her saddlebags.

“Hm… we’re running low on marigold.” Cilia said

“I can go collect some.” Ocellus told her, getting up and grabbing an herb basket.

“Be careful, and make sure to come back before it gets dark. This forest is wild.” Cilia reminded her, and she nodded.

“Hey, are you heading out?” A changeling warrior on guard asked. Ocellus vaguely recognized him as Hunter-equeas, and she nodded meekly.

“T-To gather herbs.”

“Okay. Can you keep an eye out for Pharynx-dominus while you’re out there? He went out on a solo patrol but hasn’t returned yet.”

“O-Oh, certainly.” Ocellus said in confirmation.

“Thanks.” Hunter-eques said simply, before walking back over to a crowd of other warrior drones.

Ocellus then headed into the forest, looking around. In all honesty, she was really more eager to explore than she was in collecting marigold or looking for Pharynx-dominus, but of course she knew she had a job to do. Still, she had never seen so much green before. Even though she knew there were some plants she should avoid (the formerly-thought-to-be-mythical blue plant known as Poison Joke, for instance) she loved seeing all the life around her.

For once, hunting patrols nearly always came back bearing plenty of prey. Ocellus was certain they were eating better than anyone at the Hive. But she was also certain they were fighting a losing battle with the ponies. If Pharynx-dominus was not there to relay commands that kept them at least in equal standing with the ponies, they likely would have retreated by now.

“I suppose Pharynx-dominus is a bit like the bark we use to bundle herbs.” Ocellus mused to herself. “Without it to hold the herbs together, they would blow away in the wind. Without Pharynx-dominus to lead us, we would have retreated. Blown away and lost to the wilderness.”

Ocellus giggled a little to herself at her own profound words. She smiled softly. Was this the confidence Cilia spoke of? It somehow seemed to come easier to her when she was alone. It was strange. Ocellus figured if she could be confident on her own, doing so while treating a patient should be the same… if only it were that simple.

Ocellus soon managed to find some marigold growing under the shade of a tree. She picked some, placing it in her basket. Ocellus then noticed some lavender nearby, the bright purple blossoms a dead giveaway.

“Well, it’s getting dark… but I haven’t found Pharynx-dominus yet, and lavender is good for fevers…” Ocellus reasoned, heading for the lavender.

As Ocellus collected the lavender into her herb basket, she heard a rustling noise. She nearly yelped, but quickly covered her own mouth with a hoof. If it was a predator she could accidentally alert it to her position, and that would not be good. A branch snapped from something stepping down on it, and she trembled, but took a steadying breath, before stepping over.

“I can do this… courage…” Ocellus whispered to herself, creeping towards the source of the noise, then peeking through the undergrowth.

Her eyes widened. Pharynx-dominus was standing there, along with two changelings she knew definitely hadn’t come with them. Thorax and Apex-discipulus, the Rankless One and the lucky apprentice. Zenith-discipulus was the only apprentice there besides her, having snuck along with Hunter-eques. If Thorax and Apex-discipulus were here, they had definitely…

“Abandoned the Hive.” Ocellus whispered, voice as low as she could muster so it wouldn’t get her caught. “But why isn’t Pharynx-dominus-”

“-You said you would because of me and Apex. But you never said anything about mother. And she’s the reason you’re out here.” Thorax was saying, his eyes focused in on Pharynx, staring at him intently.

Ocellus’ eyes went wide as Pharynx-dominus stammered to find a retort.

“I know you want to protect everyone, Pharynx…” Thorax began, Ocellus saw him moving closer to his brother. “But you out of all of us should know you can’t protect everyone. Especially not the ones you don’t love.”

Ocellus barely had time to contemplate what he could mean by that when Pharynx-dominus finally managed to regain his voice.

“I… I do… love you, Thorax… it’s just… I’ve devoted my life to defending the Hive… I can’t just turn my back on that…”

“Then don’t. You love the Hive. You love us. Protecting and defending us is protecting the legacy of the Hive. Let’s face it, I doubt many of us will return from these battles. Apprentices will go next, then worker and nursery drones, then younglings, and then what? At least you’ll have a chance to help one of the next generation and your fellow Prince. To have a chance to restart the Hive once it falls.”

Ocellus waited with baited breath as Pharynx-dominus hesitated. She was unsure who she wanted to win this argument. Thorax had a point, though yes, it was pretty bleak. But the changelings needed a General, didn’t they? Then…

“Well… my exact words were ‘I promise I’ll come back to you’… didn’t say where exactly I’d return to you. This counts.” Pharynx-dominus said at last.

Ocellus could take it no more, standing up, still in shock. She would have to make a decision for what to do now. She couldn’t go back and tell the others that Pharynx-dominus had abandoned them-they’d hunt him down, and he would become a prisoner, along with Thorax and the General’s apprentice. But what else could she do?

However, it seemed her body had just accidentally made the decision for her. Her movement had alerted the others to her presence. Pharynx-dominus had turned around, and was staring at her, eyes widened slightly, and Ocellus tasted fear. She gulped nervously and tried to look calm as Pharynx-dominus stepped closer.

“Ocellus-discipula, what did you see?” he asked her.

Choices, And Their Results

Ocellus paused, hesitating. What was she supposed to do? She could not betray them like this… and when she looked at the gaunt frames of Thorax and Apex-discipulus, she felt nothing but pity. She was a medic’s apprentice. She was taught to treat all creatures. She didn’t have the supplies to treat Thorax and Apex-discipulus. But she could help them.

“...Leave now and I will pretend I have seen nothing.” Surprisingly, her voice came out calm, no trace of the fear she felt. How was she suddenly so confident? “I wish you luck, Pharynx-dominus.”

With that, she turned and left, hearing none of the three changelings making to follow her. Ocellus breathed a heavy sigh of relief and shook herself, holding the herb basket steady with her magic as she did. She straightened up and walked back towards the base camp, mentally trying to come up with a convincing lie as to having not seen Pharynx.

It had been about a year since the ‘traitors’ left the Hive. After Pharynx-dominus’s disappearance, the battle in Ponyville ended in a stalemate. Ocellus had been right to mentally call Pharynx-dominus the reason behind their earlier equal ground with the ponies. Without him, their strategy crumbled.

Worse, Queen Chrysalis had not elected a replacement for Pharynx-dominus. Typically, the Head General’s replacement would be their deputy or apprentice. But Pharynx-dominus had no deputy and Apex-discipulus had left with Thorax before Pharynx-dominus joined them. So there was an essential power vacuum for the position of Head General. Most changelings seemed to agree Hunter-eques would make a good replacement, but Queen Chrysalis still remained stoically silent on the matter.

Ocellus found this to be a rather concerning thing to think of as she carried her siblings to the medic’s infirmary, what with had recently occured. Without a General to ensure plans went smoothly, Queen Chrysalis had went ahead and launched a scheme to replace all of the most powerful ponies in Equestria. Ocellus could only imagine how that would go, and sighed to herself at the thought as she took her baby siblings into the infirmary.

“Hello Ocellus– oh, you brought your sister and brother!” Cilia rushed over and scooped the boy up, cooing to him. He laughed and batted at her nose. “Have they had their naming ceremony?”

“Queen Chrysalis did it a couple days ago, as is tradition. Scorpia-puella and Capillarie-puer.”

“Wonderful names for two adorable nymphs.” Cilia said, smiling, then seemed to notice Ocellus’ distressed look. “Ocellus? Is something the matter?”

“I just… am concerned that Queen Chrysalis’ plan is not going to work. Especially not without a General to ensure it succeeds.”

“You’re not alone. I have similar concerns.” Cilia assured her. “But we must trust the Queen knows what she is doing, and that this will, as promised, give us more love.”

“I know.” Ocellus sighed, as a couple warrior drones she did not know by name burst in. She yelped and whirled to face them, her wings buzzing on her back.

“What’s the trouble?” Cilia asked them.

“Intruders in the Hive.” One spat. “Keep a lookout for them.”

“We shall.” Cilia responded calmly, and the drones left.

“I-Intruders?”

“It will be okay, Ocellus.” Cilia assured her. “They’re likely pony guards, looking for their Princesses, which you know are in the throne room.”

“B-But that would mean the plan has failed.” Ocellus said.

“I am aware.” Cilia responded. “But I am sure that whatever happens, they will not hurt innocent changelings. We can prove we are mere medics easily and your siblings are too young to even understand the concept of war. We will be safe.”

Ocellus nodded fearfully, wanting to agree with her mentor, but she still clutched her siblings close in worry. Though the halls were silent, the small group dared not venture out from the shelter of the infirmary. Ocellus and Cilia stayed seated on the ground with Needle-medicus, keeping Ocellus’ siblings in the middle of a protective circle made of their own bodies.

After a long while of terrible waiting, there was a great explosion that shook the entire infirmary.

“The herbs! Ocellus, quickly, help me secure them!” Cilia called, and Ocellus ran to help her mentor.

Needle-medicus grabbed one of the heavy boulders they used as a work surface, then with a combination of his magic and body, shoved it in front of the entrance. Ocellus turned at the sound of the rock scraping against the ground to see what he was doing, eyes widening in alarm as he blocked their only exit. There were no hole-windows this deep in the Hive, and for some reason the holes that formed random entrances had stopped appearing.

“W-What was that for?!” Ocellus shrieked at him.

“If that was a bomb we don’t want them finding their way down here.” Needle-medicus pointed out.

“Deep breaths Ocellus, it’s okay.” Cilia told her gently. “Needle-medicus and I have a plan, just in case.”

“Y-You do?” Ocellus asked, as Cilia turned and pulled out a small, pony-made container.

“Get the nymphs out of the way, and don’t touch what I’m about to show you.” Cilia told her, and Ocellus quickly did as asked. “Good, now…”

Cilia opened the container to reveal small, red berries. They looked edible, but if her mentor was being this cautious about showing her, Ocellus guessed they were not good.

“Changelings call them Bacas Somni Aeterni.” Cilia told her.

“Berries of Eternal Sleep…” Ocellus translated, eyes growing wide as she shifted nervously on her hole-covered hooves.

“They can kill any creature in a matter of minutes.” Cilia explained, closing the container tightly with her magic. “Elysium forbid we ever have to use them, but if those creatures up there come down here with every intent to kill not us, but the nymphs, then we will have no choice.”

“U-Us?”

“Myself and Needle-medicus.” Cilia told her, and Ocellus gasped. “Shhh. Ocellus, we need to be quiet.”

“But Cilia–”

“Ocellus, you must understand. Needle-medicus and I are adults, more than that, we may be only medics but we have been involved in war. But you are still a nymph. Still young, still innocent.”

“B-But you’re innocent too!”

“Not in the eyes of pony law. If they attempt to kill us they will have every right. But if they hurt children who have never seen a war…”

“But I have seen war, t-the skirmish–!”

“You are a child, Ocellus, and you never even saw that battle. You stayed at the camp.” Cilia objected softly. “No more arguments now, we need to be as quiet as possible.”

Ocellus, tears in her eyes, waited for Cilia to put the container away before hugging her.

“I’ll protect you too… y-you’ve trained me in battle.”

“You only know self-defense, Ocellus, same as us, it’s all that’s required of a medic. You haven’t had enough training to protect anyone properly.”

“But I also trained for a brief period as a warrior. I still remember some of the lessons, I can fight, and as long as I can fight I will protect you.” Ocellus said, voice growing stronger the longer she spoke. She could feel a fire growing in her chest, and she knew she would not let herself give in so easily. “You are like family to me, Cilia, I will not let you sacrifice yourself on my behalf knowing I did nothing to aid you.”

Cilia observed her for a moment, then sighed and nodded. “As long as you promise only to join the fight if Needle-medicus or I are injured.”

Ocellus nodded. “I promise. I care for you Cilia. I just want to keep you safe, as you have kept me.”

As Ocellus said this, she felt something inside her. A kind of spark. She looked down and gasped, seeing a strange, white magic weaving its way around her. Cilia cried out in alarm and reached to grasp her hoof, but Ocellus, surprisingly, felt no fear. She closed her eyes and let the magic wash over her, not even noticing when she heard the soft, grinding movement of the boulder Needle-medicus had used to hide them.

My Path Led Me Here

Ocellus trotted through the new Hive of reformed changelings. She was heading for one room in particular, which she entered and gazed around, still not quite sure she'd ever stop being in awe. The now open-air throne room was a beautiful place, the vegetation beginning to grow creating a light, fantastical aura, enhanced further by the sheer amount of ambient love the Hive tended to radiate. Ocellus approached the center of the room, smiling kindly at the alpha changeling lounging on the great oak throne before her. An energetic nymph and stern looking beta changeling sat on either side of the wooden structure, heads held high.

“Ocellus!” The alpha changeling cried in greeting, a smile on his face.

The alpha was Thorax, the Rankless One, now King of the entire Hive. Ocellus had to admit she had not seen this coming, but from what little she knew of Thorax prior to the reformation, she could not think of a more worthy changeling to guide their kind to a new beginning.

The beta changeling beside Thorax’s throne grunted in greeting, as opposed to Thorax’s friendly smile. Ocellus had to stifle a giggle – she was still getting used to Pharynx-dominus' new form. The beta changeling was by no means ugly, she had to admit his new form made him look very regal, yet still as commanding as always. However, his attitude had not changed alongside his appearance, and now the only noticeable difference between his old self and the reformed one was a clear amount of love that constantly shone in his stern lavender eyes.

“What brings you by?” Thorax asked Ocellus as the nymph moved closer to Thorax. The nymph was, of course, Apex-legatus, Pharynx-dominus’ new deputy, and Thorax’s adoptive son.

“Oh, I just wanted to come visit and tell you…” Ocellus took a breath. “I’ve just cleared things with Cilia. As of now, I’m no longer a medic apprentice.”

“But I thought you enjoyed learning to be a medic. Did something happen?” Thorax asked, his eyes showing nothing but concern.

Ocellus gave him a small smile. She appreciated his concern very much, since she had few to care about like true family these days. She could scarcely believe, though, that she was now close with the royal family themselves.

After Queen Chrysalis’ downfall, Thorax had been the one to discover the medics, Ocellus, and her siblings hiding in the infirmary. He had witnessed Ocellus’ transformation, and been there to explain what happened when she emerged from what Cilia had described as a ‘cocoon of light’. Thorax, very surprised that someone else had discovered the key to transformation without even knowing it was possible, had taken a very keen interest in her.

At first, he had merely asked Ocellus to come with him and talk for a bit, answering her questions and asking his own. Ocellus had expected him to move on since then, as she was certain he had more important things to do than talk to a nymph, even if they had spoken once before, when Pharynx had hurt his hoof.

But surprisingly enough, he kept coming back, and he constantly invited Ocellus to join him, his brother, and Apex in everyday activities. Ocellus was surprised he hadn’t just taken an interest in her for her transformation, as soon she began to feel a connection to him and the others on a far deeper level than mere acquaintances. Though Ocellus was still unsure exactly how she thought of them, it definitely wasn’t something she felt any reason to object to.

“There’s nothing wrong.” Ocellus replied to Thorax, reassuring him. “I just… I did enjoy being a medic, and I will never forget the skills Cilia has taught me. However, I don’t believe I belong in that role anymore.”

“What do you mean?” Thorax asked, sitting down on the ground and pulling Apex closer. Ocellus recognized this as a clear sign that the king was getting ready to listen attentively, and pressed on.

“My only options in the old Hive would have been to be a medic, a warrior, or a nursery drone, the latter of which I was too young for. I felt that since I didn’t fit in among the warriors, a medic was my only option. I got a thrill from it, but I realize now it was only because I felt I was finally being useful. I loved the life of a medic, but I think it was simply because it involved more studying.”

“You enjoyed learning through mental instruction instead of physical.” Pharynx supplied, joining the three in the space before his brother’s throne.

“Exactly. I did find joy in healing others, but there is something Cilia explained that a medic should have that I just don’t. Confidence.” Ocellus explained.

“Oh really now?” Pharynx asked, raising a brow, his mouth forming a shape that almost resembled a smirk. “Because from the way you’re talking right now, you have me fooled on that.”

Ocellus blushed. “T-The problem is… I get nervous around those I don’t really know as more than a stranger or acquaintance. A-And if a medic is in a high-pressure situation to save someling’s life, they can’t really take the time to get familiar with them before beginning treatment…”

“You don’t want your lack of confidence to be the reason you failed – if failing at all.” Thorax said softly, almost as if reading her mind.

“Exactly.” Ocellus sighed, and Thorax reached to rest a hoof on her shoulder, eyes full of sympathy.

“I understand completely, Ocellus. My lack of confidence was one of the reasons I didn’t end up moving past an apprentice status. Another reason was of course, belief that warrior wasn’t the role for me and yet not having another option. But lack of confidence played a big part. I understand, you don’t want to disappoint anyone.”

“Or risk someone’s life.” Ocellus added quietly. “It’s why I couldn’t stay on as Cilia’s apprentice. She doesn’t need me at the moment anyway, between her and Needle, the Hive will be in good hooves. I guess if really needed, I could also step in for things like a cold or a fever. Nothing too high-stakes.”

“And that’s perfectly alright.” Thorax told her.

“I know. I just feel like… if even a medic’s role can’t suit me, what can I do?” Ocellus asked

Thorax fell silent, clearly thinking hard on Ocellus’ question, though he knew she likely didn’t expect him to have an answer. However, before Thorax could find a good response to Ocellus, Fema-equea entered the throne room, looking grim.

“Your highness, I have news. A Maulwurf has been spotted near the edge of the Hive’s territory.”

“A Maulwurf?” Thorax and Pharynx exclaimed as one, and Fema nodded.

“It seems to be an adult male, and it’s very persistant. Is there an action you would like us to take?”

Pharynx stood up and moved over to her to get the full details. Thorax pulled Apex closer, clearly panicked. Ocellus, however, fell into deep thought.

“For now, set up defensive perimeters around the border–”

“That won’t work, Maulwurfs can tunnel and their hides are nearly impenetrable.” Ocellus interrupted Pharynx mid-order, standing and walking over to the two warriors. “They’re also primarily herbivores, so it would make sense the Maulwurf is only showing up now – it wants the plants.”

Pharynx and Thorax stared at Ocellus as she turned to Fema.

“If you ask me, the Maulwurf just needs some kind of warning, telling it not to come back. And it just so happens there’s a particular plant medics use to expel poison from wounds that also will make a creature vomit if ingested.” Ocellus gave her a slight smile. “Try going to Cilia and Needle and requesting a small portion of their supply of yarrow. Then simply bait the Maulwurf so that it eats it. That way it won’t come back, knowing we have plants that can make it sick.”

Fema glanced at Pharynx, who gave her a nod.

“You heard her.”

Fema nodded, giving a bow to Pharynx and Thorax before leaving the room. Ocellus blushed slightly as she finally realized what she had just done.

“O-Oh… s-sorry… I-I just had an idea…”

“You don’t have to apologize Ocellus.” Thorax said, smiling at her.

“Tha’ was so cool!” Apex bounded up to her. “You knew wha’ t’do a’most ins’an’ly! Like Uncle Pharynx!”

“In fact, it gave me an idea.” Thorax added as he followed his son over, smiling faintly.

“It did?” Ocellus looked up at him curiously, his brother and son seeming equally confused.

“Ocellus, you clearly know a lot of information that I assume comes from a long time studying and reading.” Thorax smiled at her gently. “You also seem to be able to effortlessly recall relevant information when you see a problem, and put it to use to create a solution.”

“I just saw neither of you knew what to do, a-and remembered yarrow makes you sick…”

“Which was helpful!” Thorax smiled at her. “I think I have just the role for you, Ocellus.”

“Y-You do?” Ocellus asked, surprised, and Thorax nodded.

He then looked to Pharynx, gazing at his brother for a long moment. The two seemed to be nonverbally communicating based on the expressions they threw at each other. Ocellus had heard that changeling twins had a sort of mental mindlink, so it wasn’t completely improbable that they could speak to each other via eye contact alone. Her thoughts were disrupted as finally, Pharynx nodded at his brother, and Thorax turned back to Ocellus.

“You remember how, in the old days, I was Pharynx’s unofficial advisor?” Thorax asked

“Yes… you mentioned that… you told me it was so you technically would have a role in the Hive and your mother wouldn’t punish you.”

“Yes, well, as it wasn’t an official position, I was still rankless. But, no one’s saying it can’t become an official position.”

Ocellus’ eyes widened. “Y-You don’t mean…”

“Ocellus, would you like to be Ocellus-consiliaria? Advisor of the royal family?” Thorax asked

“I… r-really?!”

“Of course, if you want to be.”

“Yes!” Ocellus exclaimed gleefully, and Thorax hugged her. She hugged back, smiling widely at the alpha changeling. “Thank you Thorax, thank you!”

“Heh, of course Ocellus.” He told her, smiling.

Author's Note

Just the epilogue to go!

~Melody Song

Epilogue: Off Into The World

“Ocellus, hurry up or you’re going to make us late!” Pharynx’s voice rang through the halls of the Hive.

Ocellus rushed through the Hive in response to the shout, straightening her saddlebags as she went. She headed immediately for the entrance of the Hive, where she could see Thorax and Pharynx waiting for her. Apex was standing between them, trying to look serious, and Ocellus knew why, of course. The three were going to escort her to Ponyville – the very same town where a particular skirmish between the ponies and changelings had been near. The battle that ended in a stalemate, all because Ocellus helped Pharynx abandon the Hive to join his family.

Now, however, Ocellus was going to Ponyville because she had been invited. Specifically, Thorax had been requested to send a single nymph to a school Princess Twilight Sparkle was opening, a School of Friendship. And Thorax and Pharynx had agreed no other nymph but Ocellus would do. Their royal advisor would be the perfect student to represent their kind.

“Sorry Pharynx, I was saying goodbye to my younger siblings.” Ocellus told him as she stopped before the royals, looking up at them with a smile.

“It’s alright Ocellus.” Thorax told her kindly as Apex jumped onto his head, having apparently had enough of trying to look serious. “Have you got all your things?”

“I have everything I need.” Ocellus assured him, then fidgeted. “But I’m a little nervous… I won’t know anyone…”

“Well, Ember is going to bring a student from the Dragonlands, and since she and I know each other, I’m sure she’d be happy to introduce her student to you.” Thorax told Ocellus.

This didn’t exactly reassure Ocellus. From what Thorax had told her, Ember herself sounded like a nice enough creature. But Ocellus knew from the stories infiltrators told in the Old Days that other dragons tended to be rude and rebellious, not exactly the kind or loving type. Ocellus wasn’t sure she could get along with a creature like that.

“You’ll be fine, kid.” Pharynx said, gently cuffing her over the ears with a hoof. “You’re nearly fifteen, when I was your age I was already the Head General.”

Ocellus noticed a more somber tone overtake Pharynx’s voice at that last part, but dismissed it. She was more nervous for herself at the moment. Still, she gave the Prince-General a slight smile.

“Thanks Pharynx. But I don’t think this is quite the same.”

“Whatever. Point is, you’ll survive, it’s just a new school.” He said, before promptly wacking her on the shoulder, causing her to yelp slightly. “And you better write, you know Thorax will panic if he doesn’t get a letter from you at least once a week.”

Thorax turned red. “Pharynx!”

“What? You told me just last night that you were going to make sure she has a way of contacting us.”

“For emergencies.” Thorax said quickly, giving his brother an embarrassed glare, though Ocellus still giggled. The King then glanced back at her, eyes soft. “Don’t feel pressured to write if you don’t feel like it, okay?”

“Okay Thorax, I’ll keep that in mind.” Ocellus told him dutifully, then glanced between the brothers with a sly smile. “Now, I’ve been ready for the past ten minutes or so, so now who’s making us late?”

Thorax and Pharynx blinked simultaneously, looking at each other in alarm.

“Oh cra-”

“No, Pharynx!” Thorax silenced him, pointing to Apex, who was still perched on the alpha changeling’s head.

Pharynx rolled his eyes. “Whatever, we’ve got to go!”

Ocellus giggled and nodded, and together, the three spread open their wings, taking off into the air. A shout from Apex as they began to move away from the Hive made Ocellus look over, initially concerned, but she just smiled when she saw what had caused the noise. The younger nymph was squealing in delight as he clutched his father-figure’s antler, looking down at the world below. Ocellus followed his gaze and found she shared in his excitement. The world seemed so small from up above, and yet so massive at the same time.

Finally, Ocellus was going to see more of the world. Just as she had always imagined. She would be able to see if everything was just like she had dreamed. Even if it wasn’t, Ocellus knew she wouldn’t mind. She was going off into the world on a new adventure, and she could tell she was going to love every minute of it.

“Are you ready, Ocellus?” Thorax asked her in a low voice.

Ocellus nodded silently. She had had quite an ordeal for just a first week at school. Among other things, this included skipping class and running away from the Hive – two things she thought she’d never do and was still surprised she hadn’t been in major trouble for. But upon further reflection, she had also made five new friends, including a very pretty orange dragoness with purple accents named Smolder. Ocellus blushed just thinking about the girl, though she did her best to keep these thoughts to herself. Ancestors forbid that Pharynx ever found out, he’d never let her hear the end of it.

All in all though, Ocellus couldn’t find a reason to complain. She was happy with the way things had turned out. New friends, and a brand new school with brand new things to learn.

“You sure?” Pharynx looked down at her, still not seeming convinced.

“I’m positive.” Ocellus turned and hugged them both. They had left Apex behind this time, since it was only going to be a short goodbye. “I promise, I’ll be okay here. I have friends now! And I know it’ll be different since I can’t give advice directly but you can write whenever there’s a problem and I can reply-”

“Not if it interferes with school you won’t.” Pharynx told her.

“Obviously.” Ocellus replied with a slight eye roll – Smolder had shown her how to do one, and had been very impressed she’d managed to pull it off, considering she didn’t have pupils.

“Hey, don’t roll your eyes at me.”

“You do it to me and Thorax all the time.” Ocellus pointed out cheekily, and Pharynx huffed. She grinned, knowing he was keeping quiet because he couldn’t think of a retort.

“You’ll visit us, won’t you?” Thorax asked

“Of course I will, every holiday. And you can visit during open house days.” Ocellus agreed, smiling.

“Alright… go on then.” Thorax smiled at her happily. “Have fun at school.”

“I will.” Ocellus hesitated, then hugged them both again. “I love you guys.”

“We love you too Ocellus.” Thorax said instantly, leaning down to join in the hug.

“...Y-Yeah. Love you kid.” Pharynx agreed after a minute, briefly hugging her as well.

Ocellus didn’t really need the verbal confirmation though. She could taste how much they cared about her, the flavor a familiar sour-candy sweet. Her taste signature for domus, otherwise known as family.

“Bye.” Ocellus said, smiling and waving at them as she turned and headed towards the five creatures so wonderfully unlike her, that she could now proudly call her friends.

As Ocellus headed for them, she took one last look back. Thorax was smiling encouragingly from between his brother and the Dragon Lordess Ember, waving at her. Pharynx, on the other hoof, was looking off in the opposite direction. Ocellus could tell he was doing this to pretend he wasn’t really that bothered about her leaving. She knew otherwise though.

“Bye Thorax, bye Pharynx.” Ocellus thought, giving them a final wave as she joined her new friends. “I’ll see you two again soon. I love you, my fratres… my brothers.”

The End

Author's Note

And thus, Ocellus' Path has concluded! But her story is not over, as she now has joined the Royal Family in their adventures. Join the family next time in...

Apex's Choice

~Melody Song