Chrysalis's Final Gambit

Chapters

Heavy Heart
Like you just woke up
Now a new day
Pedestrians Crossing
With me
White of Sky
The Fall
Unawakening Float
A promise of redemption.
Menace lurks near
Unfinished Business
It's come to this.
Dream of Refuge
Close in the distance
The lives we tried to reclaim
Evening Dreamscape

Heavy Heart

Chrysalis awoke, within her room. High quality furniture, a comfy bed. Sparsely decorated, but she had been informed she was welcome to decorate. Not that she had any clue how to do that.

She opened the curtains and squinted outside at the winter sun. There were no bars on these windows, but she still felt caged in. A prisoner in a gilded cage. A zoo animal to be gawked at.

She sighed. She didn't particularly have anything she needed to do, but she supposed she should leave her room for the day. For one, it was unbecoming of a queen .. well, former queen.. to sulk all day. Second, last time she did that, that pink annoyance came in to "make sure she was ok."

The absolute nerve.

She was certain this was some kind of mind game, but hadn't figured out how yet. More of that insidious friendship, maybe? Perhaps she was making fun of her. Her emotions didn't seem to add up for that to be the case, but Chrysalis was choosing to ignore that.

She was beginning to think of what to do for the day when there was a knock on the door. Ugh.. That would be...

"Good morning, Chrysalis... Or well, afternoon." Mi Amore Cadenza. Great. Just who she didn't want to see. The door was flung open.

"What is it, 'princess'" The pink one only rolled her eyes in response to her tone.

"I've come to invite you to lunch," she said, in an annoyingly pleasant way. Chrysalis had been receiving small doses of love from her during her short stay, so she knew what to expect.

"Fine, make it quick." But Cadance shook her head.

"I mean, actually go out. Get something to eat. Enjoy each other's company, if I may be so bold." She wanted to throw up.

"That sounds horrifying. What are you trying to gain? I've got no military secrets you can steal. I know you've already found my poor bugs." Another eye roll from the princess of sass.

"I don't have anything to gain. I'm just inviting you to lunch. That's literally it."

"Ha! As if you expect me to believe that! I am no hatchling. I will not be easily fooled." Cadance grew frustrated, which was a good look for her.

"There's no trick. There's no secret plot. It's just lunch! You know, food? I'm trying to be nice to you despite you literally trying to ruin my wedding and my life."

"For what, some kind of leverage?"

"To be nice! Because it's the right thing to do!" Chrysalis wanted so badly to retort but couldn't think of one. "You treat everything in your life as a transaction. You need to stop thinking this way. You're able to just do stuff without needing something from it! That's the key to actually enjoying life, instead of staying locked up in your room all day reading Equestrian history."

Chrysalis was silent for a moment. Her comrade would have agreed. That's why she ..

"Fine. I will go." The pink one sighed in relief

"Ok... Ok...I know a good place." And Chrysalis nodded.

The city was very pretty, by pony standards. She imagined the white and purple one must be quite fond of it.. What was her name again? Eh she couldn't be bothered.

Though she walked the streets freely, she still felt like she was a prisoner. She could imagine a collar and chains around her neck, with the princess holding the other end, ready to jump on any infraction. Her walk took her by.. That shop. She got that strange feeling like a rock in her chest. That was annoying. She could probably identify it, but why bother? Hopefully it would end soon. She found herself looking away from her former place of employment.

The restaurant they arrived at was filled with quiet chatter, and the two were seen to a private booth. Cadance ordered something, and, not caring enough to look at the menu, Chrysalis ordered the same.

Cadance sought to break the awkward silence. "So um.. Chrysalis."

"Spare me your pleasantries and tell me what's on your mind." The alicorn sighed.

"Look. I have every reason not to like you. If it wasn't for my sister-in-law, you would have left me locked in a basement. For my own wedding."

"Don't remind me," she grumbled. Though she likely took umbrage with another part of the whole incident.

"Well. If you're going to be here, that means we're just going to have to acknowledge that happened, and find a way to move on anyways. So... Being as I am the princess of Love, I'm willing to try to let it go. As long as I see you're trying to be a better creature, I don't have too much reason to hold our past against you."

"That's far too kind. Literally. You'll leave yourself open to attacks that way." They let out another long sigh.

"Remember, Chrysalis. You're not at war. Not everything needs to be transactional."

"So you're 'forgiving' me even though you stand to gain literally nothing, and honestly would gain more through some extrajudicial punishment?"

"Yes! Maybe not... phrased that way, but yes! If you're willing to turn over a new leaf I'm willing to try to put it behind us. We don't need to be enemies anymore. I'm not sure we'll ever quite be friends... But we can sure as hell try! I think my sister-in-law would approve."

She didn't give a crap what Twilight Sparkle approved of.

"No. We can be.. Companions. But I'm still weary of this pony friendship crap. It was though that which that accursed Starlight took everything from me. Never again."

Cadence... Smiled?

"Sure. Baby steps. We'll work on this. You're not alone, Chrysalis. Not unless you choose to be."

She wasn't alone?

Ugh. Now what was this heart of hers doing? This internal warmth was annoying.

Author's Note

Good evening! This chapter's title is from zeroranger. I wanted to sneak it in here somewhere. The game is so peak.

Also we're back! Haahaa! Editor got busy so we were a little delayed.

Like you just woke up

Cracks widened within the statue and before long an eerie green light poured though. Stone crumbled to dust and a towering presence appeared before the group, numbering only 6 in total. They chirped their wings in a form of quiet applause. Some of the drones stamped back and forth, so excited for what they had done.

Chrysalis emerged like any cocooned insect. She shook herself off and took stock of the situation. 2 officers, 3 drones, and medical officer. but more importantly she was alive again.

"You have done well to free me. How did you manage it?" Despite being far more confused than she'd ever let on, it was time to take control of the situation. A officer spoke up.

"Under the cover of night, we have been slowly feeding the statue love, in hopes to free you. We have infiltrated Canterlot."

"And you do this as a group of 6 each night?" she interrupted.

"Apologies, your majesty. We are sure you'd be freed this night... We all wanted to see the return of our true leader."

"Down with Thorax!" piped up a drone, before immediately being silenced by a glare. Now was no time for drawing attention. Chrysalis sighed and the officer continued

"It's been some time, and we have been sure to only take small amounts. No one has been replaced, so there's no missing persons to report. The ponies we skimmed only feel the need for a morning coffee." Impressive. But she did have a concern-

"How have you infiltrated the castle area then? Animal forms?" As if prompted, the entire squad clad themselves in the bright colors of a new-form changeling. Holeless legs and wings. Anyone would mistake them for being 'reformed'. Changelings often made small body edits too, so it was unlikely other changelings would catch on

"You are a credit to the changeling empire." The bugs beamed. "When it is within my power again, a reward is in order. Where are the rest of you?"

The group of rebels had their smiles drop instantly. The other officer spoke up somewhat timidly

"This is it. This is all we could manage."

"That's it??" she whispered harshly. The other bugs awkwardly fidgeted in place. "I suppose I have that fool Thorax to thank for that."

"You are your true ruler. We did all we could manage.."

"Enough," she interrupted with a commanding tone. "Though your failures disappoint me it is thanks to your quick thinking I'm free to guide you again. Do you have a safe house? I would plot our next move." They nodded. Some of the bugs stayed behind, as the one who did most the talking led Chrysalis. Femur. That was their name. Being trapped in stone must have addled her mind. She used to know the names of every 'ling under her control.

Shouldn't be hard to manage now that there was so few.

That presented a huge problem. At the height of her power with two extremely mighty allies she had failed to take Equestria. How could she do it with only 7 brave bugs? 'No,' she decided. 'Revenge will be put on hold. I must establish a safe place for them. We can work on recruitment some other time.'

"This is the place," Femur interrupted her thoughts. She took a look. Secluded but not suspicious.

"Well done. I see my teachings haven't completely gone to waste." They nodded, but she could feel the pride in their heart.

Heart ... Her quiet musings lead her to an idea. She could struggle and manage to keep her small hive alive and fed. But with a permanent source of food they could live anywhere. Far away from the lands of Equestria... If only for some time while they built up power.

She waited for the others to return. They filtered in. Never in big groups. She cleared her throat.

"Our group is small, but as always, I do everything I can for my hive. It's for this reason I've come up with a brilliant plan..."

Excited mutterings filled the room. Their queen was back. This is exactly what they missed.

"We will steal the Crystal Heart."

Author's Note

Get excited for a new fic!
This chapter's title is based off the track from the ripple dot zero ost.
My lovely editor and number one fan is miss biddyfox

Now a new day

Chrysalis brooded. Not in the sense that she was doing anything particularly motherly. She brooded in the sense that she was cutting back another exasperated sigh as she waited, impatiently, recalling the day this all began.

The changelings were immediately on board, having to stop themselves from cheering. Even though it was small, she had the hive. Together they would prosper.

It was in that spirit that Chrysalis found herself doing a lot of nothing. They had reached the Crystal Empire. They snuck aboard trains and disguised themselves as small animals. They had stored up love for a month and made the rough journey through the cold, disguised as beasts well suited for the climate.

Their plan was simple: Infiltrate in small groups. One or two new creatures was a surprise. Six was an event. With the safety of her hive in mind, she'd elected to go last. If any suspicion grew, it would be her that it would likely fall on.

The hive had become insubordinate at this suggestion, but seeing as it was out of concern for her, she had elected to ignore it.

The crux of her plan relied on being able to get into the royal castle without suspicion. This was easy and difficult at the same time. The Crystal Heart itself was simply out in the open and available for any Crystal Pony to waltz up and have a look. She supposed the thing acted as some sort of disgusting "symbol of hope." The thought made her want to gag.

The real issue, however, was two-fold. The heart was guarded daily at all times of day by two guards. Secondly, taking the heart would let the winter winds in, slowing down cold-sensitive changelings and causing a big stir. There was no way to simply sneak it out without a scene.

So the plan was to create a scene.

It was important she and most of the changelings became trusted community members. This would alleviate suspicion. Then one of her officers would take the shape of King Sombra, launching a false attack. It was highly likely the crystal ponies didn't know he was gone for good. Well, assuming that it wasn't another one of Discord's little tricks.

She blinked and shook herself a little. She was so lost in her machinations that she hadn't realized it was nearly time. She shifted to a simple unicorn, alibi already prepared. It was time for her first shift.

The Laughing Nirik was a recent up-and-coming noodle joint run by an owner now in over her head. The titular chef put out a call for a waitress, and although she had options, Chrysalis chose this one. She had sensed a tiny bit of shape-change magic about the alleged Kirin. With any luck they were another changeling. Should her plans fall apart she could use her queenly presence to bully the bug into obeying her true Queen.

Arriving at the door to the restaurant, the owner was just opening up. Though she was a Kirin, she had black and blue fur with hints of red, reminding one of their wrathful counterpart. Chrysalis was old enough to remember them before their seclusion, but the species as a whole had an air of mystery to them.

The Kirin finally noticed her and turned with a smile.
"Oh, good! You're here! How are you this morning?" Terrible.

"I'm doing well, thank you!" she lied, faking a grin. "Pretty nervous for my first day!" Only slightly true. She was certain she could handle the job.

"Understandable, but there's no need to be. I'm positive you'll do great!" Barf. Of course she would. What a stupid thing to say.

With - thankfully - no other words exchanged, she was allowed to enter. The inside of the place had what she presumed was traditional Kirin decorations and architecture. Tons of naturalistic decorations, earthy browns and greens, and the occasional splash of color to make it pop. All and all out felt like she had just stepped into a giant tree.

It's why she was relieved to see that with a quick glance of her arcane eye, it was indeed fireproofed. Simple enough work to do on such a small scale, but highly necessary, she imagined.

"Pretty nice, right? It's like a little slice of home." The Kirin gave her a very un-Nirik-like smile. She had to admit, the sign fit.

"So where are you from?"

Most lesser creatures would be caught offguard, but every infiltrator was prepared for a moment like this. She should know. She taught them. Her backstory was already prepared. She wasn't Chrysalis, she was Moon Glow.

"Well, I actually used to live here! But after the empire was freed from our whole curse thing, I wanted to see how much the world had changed," answered 'Moon Glow'.

"Ah! And now you're back home again?" asked the firebreather. She made sure to nod her head yes and give a big smile.

"Well, I think introductions are in order. As you know my name is Sunset Snow, and I've been in the restaurant business since the silence broke." That checked out. She had extremely little intel on Kirin, but that was the one thing she did know about.

"I heard about that on my travels. Must have been rough. I can't imagine not being able to express yourself..."

"It was," she agreed. "But in the end, it helped me learn some things about myself... So it wasn't all for nothing, I suppose." The Kirin gave a thoughtful nod. "Have you ever worked as a waitress before? It's pretty simple, but I can run you though the ropes if need be."

Chrysalis paused. She could lie and pretend she couldn't figure it out, for potential 'bonding' with her employer. But she decided against it. She would be here for awhile already

"No, I'm OK! I think I've seen a register like this one before."

"Well, we have just a little bit before open. I'll be in the kitchen. Stop me if you need literally anything. I'd rather be annoyed then have my only employee in a tight spot."

'Moon Glow' nodded and prepared herself mentally for her work.

Author's Note

Hiya! i have more chapters basically already prepared but you'll need to wait~!

This one's chapter title is based on a song from djmax technika 3. Not sure I ever actually played it though.

Pedestrians Crossing

Chrysalis was not prepared for service work.
It was like acting on top of acting. Not only did she need to play her role as "Moon Glow", but she also needed to pretend to like these people. This shouldn't be very hard for a master of deception, but this was a little different. Nonetheless, the tasks themselves were simple. Take the order. Get the bits. Give out the food. Clean. When the customers weren't a terror, it was a fairly relaxed experience. Unfortunately, that was only most the time.

One such terror had been deciding for several minutes now, stretching her patience to its limit. She nearly jumped at the hoof on her back, so mind numbed from the task at hand

"Hey, hon. Break time. You look like you could use one." That 'kirin' was unaturally perceptive. But changelings weren't ones to really do breaks, if not for the disguise at hand. At least she wasn't... Plus, something was bothering her.

"Oh thank you .. Wait what about you?"

The kirin only smiled.

"I'm doing what I love. It ain't that bad. Besides I'm used to doing this on my own, you know?" A fine point. She admired her tenacity, at least. And her food certainly reeked of love.

"Fine, but if you get swamped, call me over. Promise?"

"Swear on my elders. Go relax, hon."

Chrysalis didn't need an excuse to get away from those annoying ponies... One of whom still hasn't decided so far. The menu wasn't even that big. "Moon Glow" sat down with a sigh. She was out of practice. It'd been too long since she'd gone undercover. The last time...

She sighed again. It's always that one tiny detail you didn't plan for. But she was alive, and had some of her previous following. It was enough.

Though they annoyed her endlessly, she found herself craving the company of those two. She chided herself for it. She didn't NEED friends. Stupid shit like that was exactly why she was here.

Still, it was awful lonely. It took her back to days wandering alone, in those damn woods. That time nearly broke her. She wondered where her stick went. Maybe after this operation...

Her musings were, once again, interrupted. The store was mostly empty and the Kirin had arrived to check on her

"Break's over, hon. You good? All ready to go and stuff?" This constant concern for her well-being was getting annoying. Of course she was fine.

"Yup! Just thinking about stuff, you know? A lot to think about."

"That's fair. Well... Feel free to share, yeah? You're a quiet one. Wouldn't mind hearing some more of your thoughts." As much as that sure as hell wasn't happening, she should make up something to tell her for the future. She needed to be well-liked after all.

"I'll consider it. It's hard to talk much about this kind of stuff after being trapped so long." she lied. Mostly.

" Tell me about it! That stream of silence thing was no good for my ability to communicate, that's for sure." She offered her a hoof up and she begrudgingly accepted, still not certain that she wasn't just another changeling.

The shift went about the same the rest of the day. Chrysalis was ill-prepared for the dinner rush, but found herself annoyingly encouraged by her current partner in crime. At the end of a too-long shift, she found herself suddenly restrained. She nearly went rigid until she realized this was a hug. She allowed herself to snack a little.

"Great work today hon! Thank you so much for your help." The Kirin continued to be overly warm. If she was a changeling, it was increasingly obvious she must be some kind of new form. Unfortunately, her discomfort was easily read. She was lightly let go of.

"Oh... Sorry. Not a hugger?"

"Just not used to getting many of them." Shit. That expression. That was not the correct thing to say. That insipid pity in her eyes. She should lie more.

"Do creatures not... Hug you at all? What about your parents?"

"Don't know them." Fuck. Why did she say that? She should have said they died, over that! She really needed to get on her game and start actually lying again. She found herself being restrained again.

"Oh you poor thing. Well I've got plenty more where this comes from! Please let me know if they ever make you uncomfortable, ok?" So sickeningly sweet.

"Thank you. I'll try to let you know." She supposed having more energy for the heist wouldn't be a bad thing... Right?

"Well I should get going soon." It was time to break this up. But she gave her another one of her damn looks.

"Hey uh... You got a place to stay?" No, and saying yes might have her trying to visit

"Not really. You know I just blew back into town and all and I haven't got that sorted yet."

They nodded thoughtfully "why don't you stay with me until you get on your feet? I've only really got a couch for you but I live in the shop more or less. It's bigger then it looks."

That was sad. Whatever. She'd better agree, but make a fuss about it.

"Oh are you sure? I don't want to impose."

"Positive! Come on let's get you settled in."

Though she didn't want to be here, she did want to learn more about her host. To manipulate her obviously. What other reason could there be?

Author's Note

Whoa! my editor chomped through the other chapters i had ready and they're all edited. until probably tommorow when i end up writting even more lol!

This one's named after the track from skullgirls. neat!

With me

Chrysalis was already awake. It wasn't a reasonable time of day to be up, but you needed to be up rather early if you wanted to catch someone in the act of something. She tapped her disguised hooves on the counter quietly while she waited for what was to come. Which was.... Well she hasn't figured out. But this day she was going to be CERTAIN to catch Sunset in the act.

It had been about a week, and the shop was closed for the day. 'Moon Glow' quietly worked each day, giving very little away. But every night the 'kirin' would put on overt shows of affection. Last high she told her she was 'proud of her.' Disgusting. Chrysalis only needed her own pride!

Blowing air out her nose in an exasperated manner, she sought to alleviate her boredom. Reaching out over the recently established hivemind between the 7 bugs she began:

"Any awake bugs, report. How goes operations?"

"I am integrating successfully. My target isn't very affectionate. I'm being sure to be extremely careful to not drain too much love from anyone." That would be Femur. See, now that was something worth being proud over.

"Excellent. Stay on guard, all of you. Remember, there is no backup coming for us. We stand together, or die. For the hive, my changelings!"

She was met with some responses of 'for the hive!' from those who were awake.

"Anyone e-" A noise. Was it time? "I must go. I'm gathering Intel on my mark."

It felt kind of wrong to call Sunset a mark, but... that's just how things go. It was the truth. Speaking of 'the truth..'

Chrysalis crept around the cramped home built into the noodle store. She didn't want to risk shifting, if she could get away with it. But nopony ever looked up, so she skittered her way to the ceiling. Peering though the cracked door at the private life of her roommate, she saw her. Still a kirin. Was she too late? But no, their horn lit up like a burned stick, and they began to cast some sort of shape change magic.

Except they didn't change shape...

Chrysalis's jaw hung open. Well maybe not hung, as she was upside down. But she looked onward in utter bafflement and confusion. What the hell kind of spell was that? She quickly skittered to the floor. She'd catch them off guard on purpose, and see what they had to say. She knocked once before entering. Her host jumped a little

"Oh goodness... Morning Moony. Sure as hell wasn't expecting you."

"What are you up to?" She tried very hard to keep the venom out of her tone, but some still seeped through. The Kirin had panic flutter through their heart for a moment.

"Oh uh... Just freshening up!" That was such a dog crap lie. Why was it so bad? She was literally good at this all week?? She held back a scoff.

"Oh I just thought I saw you casting something though the crack in the door. Sorry for spying! Didn't mean to. Kirin magic is just... really pretty." Not entirely a lie. It wasn't as good as Changeling magic, but..

"Oh I uh..." She sighed "Can you keep a secret?"

No. "Yes."

"Ok... It's... You know how I'm a mare right? Well... I wasn't lucky enough to be born as one. Every morning I have to cast this 'heart's shape' spell, to face the body I feel in the inside." Wait. That's it? That's it???

"That's it??" She didn't mean to say that so loudly... or out loud at all. The Kirin looked stunned. "Yes?" she replied timidly. "I didn't think other creatures would be super OK with that, and..."

"Forgive me, but that's the stupidest thing I've ever heard!" The kirin looked shocked. She was so going to blow her cover, but she could not hold back. "In changeling culture... As I learned in my travels.. because they are shape-shifters, self expression is extremely important to each and every bug. Even in the g- ... the time of Chrysalis, bugs -- apparently were given room to be whatever gender or color they wanted, so long as it didn't interfere with important things like their missions... Getting upset for being yourself is quite possibly the dumbest thing I have ever heard of in my life." She took every statement and stared, unreadable even for an emotion eater.

"You, despite incredible difficulty, found a way to be yourself. That. Is a triumph."

With that she found herself dragged into another insipid hug. Disgusting. Unfortunately she couldn't turn down free love, which is why she wasn't moving. Clearly.

"Thank you. I don't know why I needed to hear that but I did" She couldn't stop her eyes from rolling.

"Almost every creature in Equestria suffers from anxieties. Sometimes we need to hear things we already well know. Make sure we share the same objective truth." With that the Kirin smiled at her.

"You're too kind," she said quietly. Chrysalis wasn't sure she'd ever been kind in her life and she wasn't about to start. Sure, she often put the hive before herself, but that was central to her goals, so it didn't count. And helping this mare was simply to prevent herself from being further annoyed. But she did kind of need to reply. Let's see... her character should be kinda sheepish in this scenario.

"I don't know about that. I'm just throwing facts around," she said bluntly.

"Nonsense. I really appreciate you. You've been a huge help this week and I'm really glad you showed up. Nice to get a look inside your head too. You're always so quiet."

"Sorry," she lied. "It's just how I am, I suppose."

They made a dismissive wave with a hoof.

"Let's get some breakfast. Then why don't we head to your favorite spot?"

Author's Note

That's all you get for today! This chapter's song is named after the track from Sonic and the Black knight. This will not be the last time this happens. I love sonic.

I'm sorry lol.

White of Sky

Sunset and 'Moon' made their way to the dais which held the crystal heart. This was their fifth visit since her arrival. She wasn't sure it was actually her favorite spot, but it was quite pretty. She much preferred the hive, mind you, but she had to be mindful of standards of "beauty" outside of it.

She had made so many trips here, (usually with Sunset Snow,) that the guards smiled and waved at her. That was an extremely good sign. She was becoming a regular. A trusted visitor. Her view was furthered when one of them called out.

"Ah, back for another visit, eh, you two? Good to see you both." Before she could reply Sunset beat her to it

"Best view in the whole empire! We have nothing like this at home." The guards chuckled, and the two made their way to the ledge. It was ice-cold with winter's chill. She hated how cold everything was around here, but at least the chef was naturally warm. It made things more bearable.

"Must be nice to be home, eh, Moon? I sorta miss the forest myself..." It would be, if she actually was home. But instead of saying that, she said something related:

"It can be really hard, being away from home for so long. Especially alone. Spend too long on your own, and you start taking to trees..." The Kirin laughed, but Chrysalis didn't think it was funny.

"That bad, huh? Well, you're back, and that's what matters."

"What about you? Do you ever want to go back?" She could feel the happiness draining from her 'companion'.

"Yes and no... I have a lot of bad memories there. Guess I'm weirdly afraid to go back?" She was right. That's a stupid thing to be afraid of. Then again, she thought of the hive.

"When we first entered the stream of silence, I thought it was my salvation. I used to hate how much I look like a Nirik. I associated it with... anger and aggression and physical strength, and all these things that didn't feel... me," she offered, unprompted. "But we entered the stream, and even with my emotions limited, I could tell it didn't actually help. The Nirik in me was locked away. So what on Equestria was the problem?"

"I presume that's how you figured out your identity," she replied blandly.

"Correct. I headed out into the world to get a new start. Presented as a mare. Later, I found out about the spell. The changes are really slow, and it needs to be maintained. But it's just a little maintenance to get to live as my true self. It's worth it."

Chrysalis found it hard to imagine. Going to such lengths only to slowly be the you that you wanted to be? As a shapeshifter, it was so natural to her to simply be what she wished. She supposed that was just the superiority of the changelings, but she did feel kind of bad for her. Well, almost. Maybe.

"What about you? What did you go out seeking?" Uh oh. She thought for a moment

"I'm not sure."

"Well what do you want out of life? What makes you happy?"

What- what makes her happy? What an absurd question! Conquest! The glory of the hive! Her and her people growing in power by the day until they can never be kept underfoot again! But that's not what she was going to say. So she thought for another moment.

"Being respected. Doing things for my kin so that we can all do well together. Safety. Stability." Nice lie.

"Oh you have family?"

"Uh they died." TERRIBLE LIE. FUCK.

"I'm so sorry..." She sat for a moment. "Well, I hope you feel safe and secure around me. I'm not just your boss. We're partners as far as I see it. For as long as you'll put up with me." Partners? Well we least it wasn't that disgusting friendship crap. She could do partners.

"Yeah, partners." She said, and 'Moon Glow' smiled at her 'partner.'

"Hell you're welcome to be an honorary family member if you want." N-no. No, no no no. She didn't need family. She had her hive. Even if there were so very few of them... Non-changelings could not be part of her hive! They were simply no use to her.

"I think I'd like that." She lied. LIED. Because that's not a thing anyone should want, except disgusting pony folk.

"Well come on Moony, I can tell you're shivering. Let's get back to the shop," she smiled. Whatever. Stupid nickname. Stupid friendship. It's not like she enjoyed ANY of this.

Why did she feel so weird inside? She resolved to look up Kirin at the library when she next got her chance. There must be some secret power they had. Clearly she hadn't examined all sides of the situation.

Not that it would matter. Soon the plan would be in motion.

Author's Note

merry chrystalis~!
It's midnight here so it's time for some bug fun! enjoy your present!

song is based of sonic and the secret rings

The Fall

Author's Note

Author's note up top this time as this is a big one! Song this time is "The Fall" by the protomen at my editor's suggestion. Thanks biddy! you're a real one.

The Fall

Chrysalis set aside her copy of "A Kirin's Tale: the History of the Kirin," by Autumn Blaze. In truth, she read it a week ago. But she needed something to distract her. It had been 2 more weeks since she began, and she hadn't found out about any secret Kirin mind powers. But it hardly mattered anymore. Tonight was the night.

She and her crew had carefully coordinated, each bug noting bed times of their marks, versus when they actually fell asleep. She already knew Sunset would be dozing in the other room. The plan was complicated. One of her officers would take the place of a captain of the guard. A second would be 'Sombra' and would be helped by one drone into making a scene.

The guard captain would then rush to her location, and give direct orders to the two guards who watch the heart-- to rush the fake monster. When she gave the signal they would drop the act and make a run for it. Her job, of course, was retrieval. It had the most chances for things to do wrong. But she had already made herself a regular fixture of the area. So all should be well.

It was time. She crept up on the kirin's room. Sitting just above her.. She watched her sleep peacefully, favorite plushie in hoof. It would be a sinch to cocoon her. So she just.. Had to... Do it.

...

It didn't feel right. Sunset being a player would REALLY hurt her plans, but she just couldn't do it. Cursing herself out, she quickly improved. Moving to the outside of the small room she lobbed a sticky mass at the front of the door. That would at the very least slow her down.. Good.

She made her way to the front and looked back longingly, despite herself.

"Good bye forever, Sunset Snow," she whispered, before stepping into the dark, locking the door, and sliding her copy of the key underneath it for them to find in the morning.

Her heart ached. Rather to say, it ached more. It always ached as a changeling, besides for those disgusting new forms. But it had been rather quiet recently. She convinced herself it was because she was out of the range of her ambient love. That's all.

She had work to do.

"I'm heading to position," she called out over the hive mind. "Is everyone in place?"

"Everything is going according to plan, my queen." Femur answered her. Good. "On my signal."

She arrived at the crystal heart, telling the guards she simply couldn't sleep, to their sympathetic nods. She called for action, and the night air filled with the terrified yells of those who had to be reliving their traumas head on. The two guards grew wary immediately, guarding both the heart... and her. It couldn't be more perfect. Her man on the inside rushed up.

"What are you doing??" The 'guard captain' cried out

"We were posted her to guard the crystal heart! What's going on??"

"They say it's Sombra! We need all hands on deck. Leave the heart!" The real guards were conflicted, but eventually followed, leaving her to her work. Gently she grabbed it within her hooves. It was all too easy. Time to escape and call off the attack.

"Moon Glow?" A soft voice called out her fake name, wrapped in trepidation and confusion. She held onto the heart.

"Hello Miss Sunset. What brings you out here?" Play it cool.

"I heard a bunch of screaming. When I woke up, my door wouldn't open. There was some goop on the other side. I... Used my fire to melt it. I went looking for you, but you were nowhere... So I came to check your favorite spot. What are you doing with the heart?! Do you know who got into the shop?"

Well, shit. This was going to be hard to lie her way out of.

"It must have been after I left. I didn't see anyone. Are you ok?"

"Fine ... Just really on edge" she could tell. "Why do you have the heart?"

"I was hoping to protect it with my life you know? It's so important to all of us." She lied heavily.

"I think we should leave that to the experts. If you're concerned, why don't you take it to the royals with me?" Hell. No. This was going poorly.

"Sure! I'll catch up to you. Go ahead and start running that way." Why hadn't she just cocooned her yet?? It would save her so much effort.

"No, we should go together. Safety in numbers," she said with a small shake of her head.

"It's fine. I'll be faster flying out."

Her face went pale for a moment.

Of all the rookie mistakes, here and now?? What was it about this stupid mare that always had her lower her guard?? Was it just because she was nice to her?? That's absurd. Sh-

"How do you intend to do that, silly...?" She laughed nervously.

Chrysalis was running out of time.

She let her disguise drop, and had herself be bathed in green fire. Were the holes on her legs smaller?

"I am Chrysalis. Former ruler of changelings. Queen of shadows. Future ruler of Equestria... Please... Just let me go. Don't make me detain you."

Her betrayal made Chrysalis want to throw up. This wasn't right. She was meant to relish this part. She started backing up towards the ledge. Her former companion's betrayal changed to anger, and determination.

"What are you planning to do with that? Please don't lie to me again."

No one makes demands of Chrysalis! ... But she wouldn't.

"With this I will have enough love to wander to the farthest reaches of Equestria, and live out my days in peace with anyone who should choose to join me. No more conflict. I 'die' a legend."

"If it's all about survival, then why do this?? You know there's another way! Have you even been draining me??"

"No.." she accidently answered out loud "bu-"

Loud chatter interrupted her thoughts. "My queen! We're in trouble out here! Have you collected it?!"

"I ran into complications, hold your ground!" she mentally hollered back.

"You've got that look again like you're talking to someone who isn't there. You're not alone are you. How many?"

"Fool...I work alone!"

"Chrysalis!!"

She winced. "Six. Not including me. We're few but strong. Sunset, everything I do is for my hive. I need to do this, for all of us."

"No, you don't! You literally--" She let out a little upset growl. "You're telling yourself you only have one choice when you don't! You're letting yourself believe how you always done things should never change! Trust me, I would know!"

Chrysalis was silent for a second. Loud chatter interrupted her again

"My queen! Our scout reports the princess is on her way!" Shit. Shit shit shit!

"Flee, you fools! I will find my way to you! The hive must go on!"

With or without me...

Footsteps of guards quickly making their way to her. She was out of time. Now or never. When they arrived, she was already up on the ledge.

"For the record, Sunset: yours was the most pleasant company I kept among non changelings".

"Moony, wait!"

"Sorry."

And she jumped. Wings fluttering to life. The next few moments a blur. She heard a voice from her past call out "Stop her!" She found herself surrounded by heat and death. Dodging through a stream of magical attacks. She flew with grace unseen.

Until she didn't.

A stray blast. Her wing clipped. She struggled to get air. She shifted forms rapidly, but a broken wing was not easily fixed by shape shifting, and she was far too on edge to concentrate. She... Accepted her fate.

What a way to go out.

Sunset could feel something taking over her, and before she knew it she was moving faster then she ever had in her life. For the first time in years, she entered her Nirik state. She had to put it all on the line or her friend would die.

It didn't matter that she hurt her.

It didn't matter that she lied.

It didn't matter because she knew inside Moony was genuine, and probably needed her. Now more then ever.

She leapt, blasting off. Making the greatest catch of a generation, she tumbled to the ground with the bug, successfully changing her momentum enough to avoid serious injury. Her friend's carapace was scorched, and that wing looked bad.. But she could see her chest moving. She was alive!

She wasn't alone though-- The Princess of Love! She'd never seen her so close. She bowed her head in reverence, but refused to let go. Guilty-looking bugs marched behind her, flanked by guards, but not bound, oddly.

"It seems you've saved a life today. What was your name, miss?" And so she answered.

"Even one who has done so much harm as Chrysalis has deserves to live." Cadence stated bluntly. "So, on behalf of the Crystal Empire, we thank you." And she bowed her head. To her! This was one weird night...

"We'll apprehend her for now. Hopefully we can get her to--"

Suddenly the other bug sputtered, managing a shift, failing at first but getting it second time. The heart caught between massive beetle mandibles.

"O-one false move and I crunch your stupid trinket," she sputtered. A hush grew over the area. "I would... make a deal with you." No... Why was she doing this?? She was surely better then this right??

"It's been a long time, Chrysalis, but I remember well your duplicitous nature. But this kingdom needs its heart. What do you offer."

"In exchange for not destroying it, all of my hive must be cleared of criminal charges, and allowed to go free. As well as anyone known to be helping me." Chrysalis shot her this little glance. Was she looking out for her? Maybe she wasn't wrong about her.

"Hardly a hive," muttered Shining Armor, to receive a good natured nudge and a look to be quiet.

"And what about you?"

"Do with me what you must. I am not afraid to die." Sunset's heart sunk. Chrysalis looked back to her for only a moment.

"We're not going to-- ...Fine! Deal accepted. Must you be so dramatic?!..." The Princess let out a sigh. Sunset never expected the royals to be so casual.

"Good..." Chrysalis croaked out... And then passed out in her hooves.

Unawakening Float

Chrysalis awoke to the smell of rot and the taste of sorrow. It was something she knew well.

In her young life, everyone around her had been struggling to even survive. No one really raised her. Her egg hatched and she was made to fend for herself, her only real companion the hunger.

But not this time. Today was the day everything changed. She climbed the highest rock in the Badlands and shouted for the attention of all below.

"Changelings!" They eventually all looked up "For too long we have been in the hands of endless struggle and strife. We've been fighting each other for what little scraps we have. It's time for a new age! Why fight each other, when we can fight against the cruel fate which put us here, broken and bleeding among the stones." She could literally feel their excitement. "So join me! Allow me the privilege to lead our people into a new age! A new dawn! For the hive!" The resounding cheers of 'For the hive!' were all the confirmation she needed. This would be the first day of the rest of her life.

"And it was, wasn't it?" The mare in the moon descended like she was returning from a trip to her prison of eld. "We suppose we shan't be needed around here after all." Right. This must be a dream. She willed herself to her regular royal regality.

"What are you doing here, Dream Walker?" Her voice filled with venom. "It's not enough you have me under close watch! Now they're sending you to spy on me?" Luna only shook her head.

"It falls to us to guard the dreams of all citizens of Equestria. Therefore, as a creature living here, we were able to access your dreams."

"What, does it not work if your mark isn't nice enough to you?"

"Er, something of this nature, yes... Dream magic is difficult to understand. But it seems we are tardy, thy dreams have turned around after all." She rolled her eyes at the horse.

"Great! Then you can be going then."

"Hold for just a moment. Would thou... allow us to know more about thyself?"

Why did ponies never just leave...? "More spying??" But Luna shook her head.

"Hardly. Friendships bloom with understanding. We have never seen into thy stormy heart before this night. We would... Like to know more about you. Sympathize with thy plight." Chrysalis growled like a caged dog.

"I don't... Need. Friendship. But, fine. I'll show you, if you promptly crawl back under whatever rock you belong to."

"Despite thy combative nature, we thank you." Why did she keep talking like that?? Chrysalis narrowed her eyes. She could feel another set of emotions... Nearly in sync. Interesting. Perhaps it could be...

Eh. Nevermind.

"Well as you can see, whatever cruel God created us as a shit joke left us with nothing. No hope, no love. No leadership." Luna only listened quietly. Good. "But that day, I spit in the face of that God. I seized control of my own fate, and that of the whole hive!"

"It is admirable." That was a surprise. One of these princesses actually had some good sense.

"I agree." She grinned widely. "I've done everything I could for my people! And for awhile we prospered."

The scene shifted. The hive was working on assembling their new home. Everyone working together... Under her supervision. She lifted a hoof when needed, of course.

"I see.. You're working with your people here for your home, yes?" No attempts to scold her? Interesting.

"We were a species on brink of extinction. We needed somewhere safe. Where no one could hope to get to us." The scene shifted again. Her first campaign. Organizing those patrols was hell. She lost bugs that day...

Luna nodded like she understood.

"We see your people still suffered greatly. You inflicted harm because you felt harm. Hurt creatures hurt creatures, as the saying goes..."

"I've never heard that one."

"That's an enlightening issue." She stuck her tongue out at the princess. But she wasn't done.

"So, this is your past. But let's talk about your present." Her dreamscape shifted. She saw herself locked in a cage of pure gold. It was very on the nose, this dream...

"We have known this feeling in the past as well. As you know, on our return from the moon our people accepted me. Us. But we did not feel that way." She couldn't help but nod. For once, a pony was speaking sense.

"I know your kind does not trust me, and with good reason. I will never be accepted here. It is the way of things," Chrysalis stated bluntly.

"That's not as true as you think it is. Behold:" it shifts again. The bars are far apart now. She could easily slip through. But her copy did not move, rattling the bars.

"I was also the same way. We feel caged, but, in the end, we cage ourselves. Our hearts." Chrysalis rolled her eyes, but the princess went on. "The problems we felt were based in how we were inside. For us, we needed self-love. For you, I suspect you needed to open yourself to the love of others." What a laugh. She STOLE love. It was part of her very species. Why would she NEED to "accept love" when she was already getting it? She let out a haughty laugh. The princess only shook her head.

"Laugh as you wish, but I can see your inner worries. We've seen your heart through your dream. Consider my words in the coming days, Queen of shades."

She grumbled. Couldn't even get rest in her sleep.

"Have a good night, princess." she said.

Author's Note

This chapter's title is from...sonic and the secret rings.

~~Yeah I gave up a little~~

This is were things get the most...AUish. The comics are technically canon unless contradicted by the show. However, I don't like the tree orign for Chrysalis. I became aware of it only recently and while it works, it doesn't resonate thematically with the species later depictions. The leg holes just being battle scars is...boring.

But hey this won't be the last of her orgins we see. So for now my little ponies...sweet dreams! See you next chapter.

A promise of redemption.

Lunch with Cadence had become a common occurrence. And Chrysalis hated how she didn't... Really hate these meetings. She was starting to look forward to them, which made her want to cringe. But the pink princess had some wit to her.

She arrived at her usual spot early. Odd. Cadence was usually here. The mystery didn't last long. She entered the little cafe, with a tired look in her eyes, and a proper regal yawn. She smiled upon seeing her, for some reason.

"I can't tell you how glad I am to be out of that meeting," she sighed as she sat down.

"I'm glad the hive never had to do foreign relations under me. Those dignitaries can be a nightmare." Her companion nodded.

"The yaks are a delight but very... Loud. Too loud for that early in the morning." Chrysalis let out a little chuckle.

"That's yaks for you. Loud and proud as they come. They share a lot in common with dragons on the whole." Cadence rolled her eyes.

"You're doing the intel thing again," she huffed. Admittably, she had a habit of talking about subjects as if she was preparing a drone for a mission.

"That hardly counts!" she growled. The princess's laughter filled the cafe again. Sweet like chocolates on Hearts and Hooves day. Ugh. How she hated her!

"Never thought I'd be here laughing at your jokes, Chryssy, but I'm glad I am. We've come pretty far from locking me in a basement, huh?" She raised an eyebrow at her with a smirk.

"First of all. Not a joke. Secondly, in my defense, you did blast me after that."

"Great! We're even then." Big smile. Just like that she was over it? Well, maybe not just like that. It had taken her a while. Maybe these excursions served as some attempt to forgive her? She remembered her dream from the other day, and how the princess had wanted to get to know her.

By her nature, everything about herself was guarded. Information was currency, and changelings had so little to their names already. That was dangerous generosity. Or, it HAD been. She sighed.

"It's hard to imagine sharing things up openly. You now probably understand, I struggle to do so." She nodded.

"I know... But I also know you've been doing it more. I really appreciate the effort to be more open. I told you once we don't need to be enemies anymore, and I meant it." She placed her hooves on top of hers. Her heart did another one of its annoying motions it was fond of as late. Some fluttery feeling.

"In that spirit, I'll tell you I was visited by the dream walker some nights ago." They blinked.

"Princess Luna? Have you not been sleeping well?" That caused her to pause and consider. Did she ever really sleep well? How would she know the difference!

"I slept all well, as I usually do," she decided to tell her. Seemed less complicated. Cadence nodded sagely.

"Maybe we should go out and get some furniture for your room. You might sleep better if it felt more like a home." She scoffed.

"I have never decorated in my life."

"Great! Then it will be novel to you."

"Fine, fine. I know you won't drop it."

"Oh, good! You managed to get that intel on me, did you?" She smirked again. Chrysalis rolled her eyes.

"While I'm making you mad, I should just rip this band-aid off... I invited someone to join us today" she narrowed her eyes.

"What." She said. With venom.

"There's someone you have been putting off talking to, isn't there?" She tried not to look guilty.

"I have zero clue who you're talking about." That response got get another eye roll.

"It's too late for that. My 'spies' already know about Miss Snow. You know. Because you told me."

"You didn't need to invite her here!" she hissed, "A changeling never goes back to a mark. It's dangerous, and if we're ever found out, she certainly wouldn't want to see us again."

"Why are you so concerned about that if it didn't mean anything to you? There's two royals in this room. It's not like she can harm you." She waited for her to respond. But Chrysalis didn't HAVE a response. "Just give it a shot. I promise she's not coming to yell at you."

"Fine. Fine..."

Why the hell was she nervous?? The minutes felt like hours, and, after several false alarms, there she was. She walked into the store and smiled, running up to the group. Chrysalis was being restrained again.

"I'm so glad you're ok!" The Kirin blurted out. "I mean... Princess Cadence said you were, but I couldn't stop myself from worrying." She wasn't wrong. She could still feel it coming off of her.

"I don't know why you want to see me in the first place." She said bluntly. "You know our entire relationship was built on lies and manipulation. You have your chance to tell me off now, s-"

A hoof was rudely pressed to her muzzle, interrupting her.

"That doesn't matter to me. You did something bad, yeah, but you did it because you assumed doing things the right way wouldn't work. You need to do better, but I'm willing to be there with you. You might think I don't know you, but I do. I remember the moment you frankly told me to accept my journey to be myself. I saw bits and sparks of a girl I wanted to know really badly, and now the veil is gone and there's nothing stopping you from showing me."

Chrysalis was at a loss for words. She felt angry. Not at her apparent friend. But for some reason, this made her mad.

"You can't just forgive people who manipulate you like that! It's absurd and foolish to trust someone after they've broken that trust! You owe other creatures NOTHING, Sunset Snow!"

There was a pause. The other diners were looking at them now. The Kirin took a moment to reply-

"And yet, you're sitting here trying to tell me things which are in my best interest. Like you care. Even though the deception was entirely based on you not actually being my friend."

She scoffed. "You're looking too much into it. It's only because it annoys me."

"But WHY does it annoy you? If you don't care about me you shouldn't care about what I do."

"I don't know?? I'm just, nosy. It's... in my nature to stick my snout in where it doesn't belong." She knew that was a shit answer, but she didn't have a better one... What was even happening? She earned another eye roll from that annoying pink princess.

"If you were only nosy, then you would laugh about it with me later, not try to help her 'fix' problems in her life. What you're doing is putting up a wall because you're afraid to let her in. Stop it. It's time to be strong enough to be vulnerable. Be the leader your people deserved."

She panted. She needed to say something, anything! They were wrong, clearly. Chrysalis can not care about other creatures! She was a manipulative, repulsive creature who only cared about the goals of herself and her hive! She was...

Really lonely.

She let out a deep sigh.

"Fine. Fine! Well try this so-called friendship.. On MY terms. And my terms are the moment this corrosive force takes another thing out of my life, that's it! It's over!"

She sat down heavily at the table, investigating the floor. The eyes of the others might as well be flashlights in her face. She couldn't look at them. She felt the two close in on her. Cadence put a hoof on hers again. She could feel their affection... Given so freely...

She didn't feel the hidden layer of manipulation like she did with Cozy Glow. They just... Wanted her to feel better and be better.

How odd.

"That day, they took everything from me." she offered out of nowhere, putting her head on the table "That accursed Starlight came along, introduced 'friendship' and proceed to take everything I've been working on since I was a hatchling. They didn't need me anymore! I wasn't being invited, I was being offered sympathy... By a supposed better! I couldn't stand it."

"You had someone enter your home and change your way of life overnight. You made the wrong choice because you were scared. There's no shame i-" But she interrupted the pink princess.

"I'm not scared of anything." She huffed.

"Different kind of scared, hon," The Kirin offered. "Not like you're a coward but, like, something completely new had been shown to you and you weren't ready."

"Feh. Whatever. I'm not doing the reform thing. I refuse to be that colorful." She paused. "Wait why do you know about that?"

"Well, A: You just told us. And, B: I spent... the time after you were taken, learning more about you. I thought, if I could understand you we might be able to be friends again." She sighed.

"Why does every creature want to know about me all of a sudden?" she grumbled under her breath, before speaking more clearly:

"Were you mad?"

"A little at first, but I was busy being confused, and rescuing falling bugs."

"Still don't know why you did that."

"Duh? Friends? Anyways. I got a little mad afterwards, but I got over that too. It just wasn't worth it. You're really nice.. In your own way... And I wasn't going to let the false pretenses stop me."

"She showed up at my palace gates like she was ready to fight," offered the princess. "I was already thinking about finding her to arrange this little meeting, so instead she got the welcome committee." Sunset blushed.

"I thought you might be a political prisoner..."

"Even if I was, trying to take down a princess on your own is foolish. You need to be more careful."

"You know you're doing an awful lot of caring for someone who doesn't want friends" Cadence teased. The two laughed.

This friend thing was going to be annoying.

Author's Note

We're using the mega's for this week's chapter title. Great band check em out.

This one was pretty delayed huh? my editor is currently trying to cut through my entire backlog of EIGHT CHAPTERS, so uploads should pick up soon.

Their will be two chapters released this week to make up for last week, and, if i can manage it, a small surprise.

Menace lurks near

Chrysalis was headed into town for the day. It was growing increasingly frequent for her, and with minimal-to-no escort. She should be using this opportunity to plan an escape, or another attempt on the heart. But every time she tried to, her heart felt this annoying ache, and she thought about her friends. It was gross.

She was decked out in a scarf she picked up yesterday and some leg warmers. The later served dual purpose: the holes in her legs were slowly vanishing and it was concerning her greatly. She'd never had her body change on her own in this way...

Not since growing up.

As for today's mission: it was a simple one. A local shop served a warm, Crystal Empire dessert known as a 'crystal fudge brownie.' She was obsessed. Changelings didn't need to eat food like regular ponies, but it could serve as recreational. Or emergency love in a pinch, depending on whoever made the dish.

Her eyes caught on a semi-transparent tail. Nooo... That couldn't be! Rushing 'round the corner she was met with Femur. The pastel yellow color told her quite a bit about what he was up to. She approached him and without thinking. He saluted.

"My queen. It's good to see you're well."

"What happened to my squad, Femur. Did you get captured??"

"Long story only I did .. I went to infiltrate to get you out, but was spotted as the alert had already been raised. A stupid mistake. My apologies." She waved a hoof dismissively

"Continue."

"They uh .. Started treating me quite well.. some stuff happened.. and, I look like this now." He gestures. "I told the rest, and most of them have chosen to integrate into the Crystal Empire. We are still loyal to you! I found out you had... more or less surrendered. We figured, worst case scenario, we'd rise to aid you if you ever changed your mind." She let out a sigh as he nervously finished up.

"It is my fault for failing you then. It can't be helped. As long as you're all living well. But if they begin to treat you poorly let me know and I will raise hell unseen in these lands since the days of Sombra." Femur looked... Surprised.

"You're not mad? You... Don't want us to get revenge?" He asked with eyes wide.

"All I ever wanted for was my people to be happy. As we grew, so did my ambitions. If you are all well then I'm content knowing my hive lives.. With or without me."

She realized how she had changed already. This wasn't like the old her. She had expected betrayal in response but instead she got... Something else.

"Please excuse my insubordination, my queen, but I refuse to do that."

"What??" She hissed out. They flinched, but kept going. Good. She still was teaching them to be brave.

"There's no hive without you. We wouldn't be what we are today if it wasn't for our glorious queen. I refuse to leave you behind. Maybe you don't want to rule us anymore or something... but we want you around."

She rolled her eyes at him.

"It's best to leave relics in the past, Femur. I'm the old way. An old time. We gave it one last shot and know now there's no place for me in this new world."

"If you have a place in this world then we'll make one! We worked to free you because we believed that you are always going to be important to us."

She held up a hoof for silence.

"You freed me because, like me, you are not ready for change. If you continued to follow me, we would have stayed the way we were. You're well fed, healthy, and full of enough spunk to tell off your former queen. This was the best result."

"Only because you used your final act to make sure we all stayed free!" She blinked in surprise.

"You heard about that, hmm?..."

He nodded.

"The hive wasn't perfect, but we didn't know a better way. It's hard to find it when you feel like you're under attack at all times. Maybe you were right. Maybe we were scared to move on. But we also wanted our leader to share this new world with us. You belong with us."

There was a pause.. she didn't really have a rebuttal. Eventually she let out a little smirk.

"Look at us. These ponies have made us sappy." She said with some humor in her tone. Femur laughed.

"Perhaps. But it's not so bad in the end. I wish I had tried it sooner." She nodded.

"I'm hungry for some crystals. Let's go. I'll take you were I was planning to visit today."

The two sat in the cafe. It was an old school-style diner, with purposefully gaudy decorations. Femur's tail started up like a propeller when he tried his dessert. They talked about days of old for a while. They talked about the new world longer.

"I feel like now I'd actually feel comfortable in the new hive," Femur admitted. "I came back from a routine mission to find everything changed. I went rogue shortly after." Chrysalis nodded solemnly. "You should visit at some point."

She froze, and not from the cold wind cutting through her.

"I might have a place in this new world but I'm not sure it's with my hive. There are likely few that wish to remember me, wish to remember what we had to do."

"Ma'am," he started. (He had taken to calling her that, with "queen" off the table.) "You'd be surprised how many of us still miss you. I couldn't get any more troops because they don't want to go back to the old ways, but you're still respected."

She shrugged. "I'm not so sure."

"Ok. How about this: You have led us for a long time, and now you need to lead us a little longer. Don't give up on finding your place, and none of us will do so as well. We'll look to your lead on this."

She smiled. "That I can manage. Thank you. I should be going. Please give the others my regards."

"Wait!" he let out in a harsh whispered tone, gesturing for her to sit back down. She sighed and did so.

"My qu- ... ma'am. I've been keeping an eye on the city. Old habits die hard. And there's a growing group of individuals who are not happy about us being free to roam. Especially you. Please be careful."

She nodded thoughtfully. Now this at least, was something she understood.

Author's Note

Boom! Double update week! Also check out the new image for the fic, drawn by yours trully!

Alright, time to get proper obscure! This chapter is named after a track in the MegaMan unlimited soundtrack.

Unfinished Business

Chrysalis waited with bated breath for the princess of the moon to show; but, sadly, no one would save her from this waking nightmare.

She sat across from someone she was very familiar with. After all, she had spent some time with him... as someone else.

Shining Armor glared at her with silent fury, anger coming off him in waves like heat from a kirin. He meant her no direct harm, but somehow this was worse. She couldn't stand it. She opened her mouth to speak before being interrupted.

"So, you've been spending and awful lot of time with my wife." He growled. She rolled her eyes.

"So what if I have? Jealousy isn't a good look for you, mon armure." She chided. He grew angrier but softer.

"Don't... Call me that. That's what you called my when you... pretended... to be my wife?? And nearly ruined our wedding? For what, some kind of plot??"

"I'll admit my ambitions did come at the cost of you people... In theory.. But I did everything I had to do for my own." She stated calmly.

"You..." He held his head like he was getting a headache. "You get to be the one who decides one group of creatures deserve happiness over many more all of a sudden?? That kind of behavior is why Equestria was under attack by windigos!"

She looked around the room they were in. The waiting area outside of the meeting hall.. Normally, Shining joined his wife for meetings, but he had been busy with guard duty, preparing for the worst of a crystal winter.

"I'm not trying to take your wife away, Shining. She approaches me willingly, for some... unknowable reason. I don't know how you got this idea in your head."

There was a tiny flicker of amusement, which was weird. It was quickly drowned in annoyance.

"I don't know, why should I trust you? Literally all I've known you to do is lie!"

"Touché," she sighed. "It's in your best interest not to. Doing so would be strategically unwise." She concluded. He let out a tired sigh.

"Was... Anything.. That happened with us real?"

"That's probably not a question you should ask. It's not going to give you good results."

"Answer me.. If I have to look at you each day, I need closure."

She sighed and began.

"Well, most compliments I gave you were true. It's much easier to give a genuine compliment over something minor than to completely lie about it. It makes the actual deception easier if they have reasons to trust you."

"Of course it does." He grumbled. She met it with an eye roll.

"I suppose, if it makes you feel better you're a great kisser. Actually earning one of those from you must make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world! You're agreeable too. Masculine without being annoying about it. Your nerdy side keeps that in check. It's endearing."

Why the fuck did she say all that?

"Glad you found joy in lying to me."

"See this is what I mean, mon armure. Anything I say is just going to make it worse for you. By pony ethics my actions are not widely accepted."

There was a pause before he spoke up again.

"Are you even sorry?" And she thought about that.

"Honestly, until a while ago, no. I saw it as doing what I had to for the creatures I protect. You're a guard, you have to think about the safety of the populace quite a bit. Have you ever entered that state where nothing matters except your objectives?"

He didn't answer, but his face gave her the answer she needed.

"It was the same for me. It... was fun, though. I enjoyed feeling cherished for awhile. I received adoration from my hive, but it was much different than what we had going on."

"You never answered my question. Are you sorry?"

"Yeah... I suppose I am. My bugs often report missing their marks when their cover is blown, and I understand that feeling as well after what happened that day. Are you happy now, Shining Armor? You had a positive effect on my existence, under the false pretenses of doing the same for your spouse."

"I don't know, Chrysalis," he sighed. "I'm not sure if you enjoying my company makes it better or worse."

"This is going to make me puke... but I'll say it anyways. We can start again on real terms. Actually-get-to-know-me kind of thing. Everycreature seems to want to know more about me these days." She sighed and he let out a little chuckle.

"Yup. Welcome to having friends."

"I already hate it here."

"Which is why you offered it to me?" he retorted with a hint of humor. She sighed.

"Right, if you're not going to be annoying about it you're welcome to join us on our walk. Surely that will assuage your woes."

"I'm already over it. No one can replace me. I'm one of a kind." She shook her head. The sound of the meeting concluding could be heard, scattered voices suddenly a cacophony. She smiled.

"Finally. I have been eagerly awaiting these activities.."

Shining laughed at her, to her confusion.

"Wow she was right about you.. That's cute." Fury struck her.

"I am not cute! Right about what??"

"For someone who can read emotions you sure can't read your own." He scolded with a pleased tone.

"What in the pits of Tartarus is that meant to mean?" But Shining just gave her a shrug and a winning smile.

"Forgiveness is going to take time, you know. But if you're willing to start being sorry I'm willing to start forgiving you. Maybe we'll make it together."

Together?

"Maybe." She concluded.

And when that, the doors swung open, not any louder than usual but still deafening, stifling any further discourse.

Author's Note

We're using a skullgirl's track for this chapter's title. A lovely use of one for the second time.

my editor got sick but I do have another update already edited from them. As such it shouldn't slow our weekly progress

It's come to this.

Chrysalis could tell an already-long day was going to get longer. She took a stretch, wearing yet another pair of socks due to... Strange developments with her legs. But as she did so, she snuck a look behind her.

Yeah, they were definitely following her.

A group of crystal ponies had been trailing the trio the whole day. Shining Armor declined to offer to join them, but her.. Friend... Sunset Snow was picked up and brought along with the group early on. So it was just her, the girls, and their three stalkers.

Reading their emotions she could tell they didn't mean well. Open feelings of hostility and anger, minor panic whenever they stopped as they wondered if they had been caught. It was all very trite. She couldn't believe that--

"Chrysalis?" She paused. Cadence was trying to get her attention.

"Hmmm? Yes, what is it?"

"We've... arrived." She smiled. "Are you ok?"

"Perfect, princess." She grumbled and marched her way into the furniture store. The in-store selection was fairly varied already, but she spied a large tome at the counter that presumably contained more things to order. She didn't have time for this, though. She needed to....

No. You know what? No. She was going to enjoy herself. AND keep an eye on the villains. They weren't going to ruin her day with her friends. She gave a quick look around the store. There in the distance. An open window.. Too high and small for a pony.. But for her...

"I am already overwhelmed." She sighed. This was true. She had no idea what to purchase. "I'm going to go look yonder." This was not.

"Ok, hon! I'll see if I can't suss out what you like." The Kirin nodded confidently and headed to the book, while the princess browsed the in-store stock. She had just enough time. Being careful not to run, she made her way to the window. She slithered up the wall as one of the smallest lizards in Equestria, trying to ignore the bite of cold. Once on the other side she took to the skies, a small snowy owl.

It took her mere moments to locate the group of troublemakers. Dropping in behind them, she returned to her true form, letting out a classic menacing chuckle.

"Just what do you three fools think you're doing? And don't bother lying, I can read you like a book."

They jumped at the sight of her. She could feel anger burn in their hearts.

"Keeping an eye on YOU," the blue one said, bluntly.

"It's a travesty you're allowed to walk free!" agreed green.

"Do you honestly think any of us will forgive you for making HIM appear again?? Your tricks caused us all great pain!" concluded white. The other two nodded in agreement.

"No. I don't. You don't need to forgive me for anything." The three shuffled in place, but she continued. "Nor do I expect you to follow me. Return to your lives. Leave us be."

"No. No, we're not just going to let a criminal walk around our city! Our princess is too forgiving allowing you out," said the white one. The green one growled at Chrysalis.

"And what do you intend to do about it? Do you hope to fight me? What's the point?" she scoffed.

"Maybe we will!"

Blue rushed her. She prepared to dodge easily, but found another behind her. Suddenly the two were in some dark warehouse. Blue collapsed, apparently drained from naught but a simple teleport spell. All around her she watched as horns glowed alight in the darkness.

She cracked her neck.

"So this is how it has to be, huh? Let's get this over with."

The room became a fury of white hot blasts of magic, and rocks, and other more simple weapons being thrown at her. She went low, transforming into that same gecko. Then turned into a mighty yak, headbutting along with the upward motion of her changing size. A troop of Earth ponies marched up to her, all throwing punches wildly with their forehooves. She let her body become long and thin, dodging the blows, but she had now to dodge a stampede of stomping hooves. She slithered around one pony, growing into a large basilisk, and throwing them toward the rafters where the others were.

Blasts of magic hit her now-scaly body. She groaned, returned to her true self. The melee fighters began to charge her again. Shaking it off quickly, she retched, hacking up a glob of resin, getting most of them stuck in one place. She barely had time to dodge a hit from the one who didn't. He took a practiced stance, throwing a series of punches and kicks toward her. She was doing okay, until the sounds of magical bolts filled her ears. Now she was completely on the defensive, hoping for any opening. Unfortunately, she wouldn't get it. A blast managed to catch her, and a punch connected soon afterwards. She spun a little, lying in a limp heap on the floor.

But she wasn't out yet.

She lay there, pretending she had nothing left. The others encircled her. She had her eyes closed, but from reading where the sources of emotions were, she was able to tell. She tolerated it as they kicked her supposedly passed out body. Not a single sound. She just has to wait.. Bear the humiliation until..

They dropped their guard.

Springing up she shifted into a mighty sphinx. Fierce paws and a whip-like tail sent various ponies flying about the warehouse. She approached the last one, turning to her true self. She leaned down. They flinched, but she only spoke softly to them.

"Do not try this again. You don't have to like me. It's not in your best interest. But if I'm attacked again I'll have to defend myself again. You have every right to be mad at me, but you won't get anything this way. Understood?"

They nodded.

"Good." And with no further thing to say, she began to exit the facility. Damn it, they got her leg. She would need to hide her limp, and her broken carapace.

Making her way to the main shopping area wasn't too difficult, despite not knowing where the hell she was. Once she got her bearings, she began making her way back you the furniture store, already thinking about how she could sneak back in unnoticed. Unfortunately these plans quickly evaporated as her two friends came charging up to her, bringing a wave of concern with them.

"Chrysalis! What happened.. Where did you go??" the Kirin blurted out first. She sighed. She forgot to come up with an alibi.

"I saw some individuals outside. They had been stalking us for a while... I made it clear that wasn't acceptable, and they went on their way," she said, simply. Cadence gasped softly.

"Why didn't you tell us?" Chrysalis blinked in surprise.

"Why would I? I was confident I could resolve the issue. There's no reason to alarm you." She went to take a step. A critical mistake. Her limp acted up.

She could feel their eyes like daggers.

"You're hurt!" Cried the pink one.

"Hardly."

"Chrysalis." She warned.

"I'm fine."

"Show. Me."

She rolled her eyes and dropped her disguise. Battered carapace, bruised legs, and worst of all, they had ruined her favorite pair of socks. Cadence let out a tiny gasp and started fussing over her wounds. She rolled her eyes in response.

"How did you get these? Did you get in a fight?"

"I fell."

"Chryssy!" She let out in an exasperated tone.

"Fine, fine! I had received intel a while ago from one of my bugs that various ponies in this kingdom are not pleased with my continued presence. Knowing this, I carefully monitored around us. I realized they might prove troublesome, so I snuck out and... dealt with them. Unfortunately, I underestimated their level of malice. They teleported me to a warehouse and descended upon me to attack. I defended myself and returned here. I promise that's all."

Cadence listened with wide eyes. She was mostly feeling concern. Sunset had hers tinged with anger however. She spoke up.

"So you know about these guys and didn't tell us... why?? You know we could have helped you right??"

"It's appreciated, but it's my problem stemming from my consequences. So, I dealt with it myself." That should settle matters. But Cadence spoke up, presumably channeling some love into her wounds without asking to help her heal.

"She's right, Chryssy. Part of the thing about being friends is being honest and trusting each other. If you'd told us about your problems instead of bottling them up, we could have had the guards find and disrupt this group before it came to violence."

"Do you honestly think your husband likes me enough to be bothered to do all that?" She snapped a little. She didn't really have a good retort. The princess was right, after all. But sensing her emotions, she realized she made a mistake.

"Apologies. But he really does hate me. With good reason, to be fair." She had to fight the old her, screaming in her head to never apologize to anyone ever. Times were changing and so would she. She can't go on the way she had.

Cadance let out a deep sigh.

"He doesn't.. Hate.. You. It's.. It's taking Shiny a lot longer to warm up to you. He talked to you today right?"

"You know about that?"

"Not exactly, but... he'd been thinking about it for a while. He wants to let go of our... unfortunate past. No matter what, as long as you mean well, you're a guest and a friend of the crown here. Please don't hide things from us anymore, okay? We can work though problems together."

Looking at her face, all scrunched up in concern, her heart felt like a melting cube of ice. This shit again! She preferred it when her heart was less active.

"Fine. I'm sorry. That goes double to you, Sunset. By my own terms I suppose I must disallow lies by omission. I won't give you cause to rue the day you put trust in me."

Sunset rolled her eyes. "Always so official. It's fine, we get it. It's hard for you to say things but you're sorry about it. Apology accepted."

Why was having friends so annoying. Why was she smiling as well?

She forced the unwanted gesture away.

"We can return to the task at hand. Lead the way." But Sunset lit up, excitedly taking her to see something.

"I think I've found just the perfect thing for you! Check out this Gothic recliner!"

She beheld it. Dark-stained wood, nearly black. Crystals from the empire laid into the sides, where they could decorate but stay out of the way. A bat wing motif ran throughout the chair. It was...

"Perfect. It's perfect."

"Really?" beamed the kirin. "Guess we've started to find your style after all!"

Chrysalis was used to doing things she wanted, but, somehow, was not used to knowing what she wanted. She supposed when you grew up only knowing war, you found it hard to imagine peace.

Thank the elders she had these two to show her.

Author's Note

Yeah we're back to sonic songs again! Secret rings this time.

Why am i posting this at 2am?

iunno.

Dream of Refuge

Chrysalis stopped to review how she ended up in this situation.

She was in a train headed towards the hive. Undisguised, at the request of the princess. She'd gotten much fewer shitty looks than she thought, to be fair.

When finding seating, Cadance had pat the seat next to her and invited her to join her. She didn't feel like refusing. She had a lot more on her mind at the moment. It was then that Shining Armor made a big show about how it was definitely meant for him, before sandwiching her between the two royals. It was utterly embarrassing. But extremely comforting.

It wasn't enough comfort to stop her nerves from going crazy. She had only felt this way the last time she lied to these two. Now she had her head on Cadance's flank, listening to her soft breathing. She quietly read a book under her. In and out went her breath. Was anything about her inelegant? Utterly baffling.

Then on her other size snoozed Shining Armor. It had been so long that she'd forgotten how much of a cuddler he was. They were nestled in close to her, even holding her tail. She felt the end of it flick about, as if it were acknowledging her.

From both she felt a soft ambient affection. She thought it was for each other but... There she was, in the middle of it, clearly. Was their love that strong? She recalled the sheer strength it gave her the day. Perhaps it was.

She felt a bit like a thief between the two, stealing their affection for herself. The old her within her wanted to holler about how this was the way it was meant to be. But the her here and now had pride to keep. She had made the rules of the friendship agreement. It wouldn't do if she broke them. She might be a liar and a cheat, but she had standards, even at her worst.

She was so distracted that she only noticed they were arriving when the train slowed down. Cadance quietly called out her husband's name, who awoke with a sleepy yawn, looking around. He smiled at her. Then at Chrysalis. But why at her?? She didn't understand.

"Whoops, guess I feel asleep again." He chuckled.

"It's ok dear, I know trains make you sleepy." She smiled. "Besides I don't think Chryssy minded."

"Don't call me that.." Chrysalis grumbled, but couldn't spare the effort to deny her claims.

"Right. We have important things to take care of. We'd best get going." She stood, steadying herself. She couldn't stop her wings from buzzing slightly, like the energy had to go somewhere.

"You're nervous, aren't you." Cadance smirked.

"I am not. A changeling queen is not one to be nervous."

"No, you totally are. It's super obvious," Shining chuckled, to her great annoyance. "It's alright. You've got the best support squad ever right here." And with that, he pulled in his spouse. Chrysalis wondered if she preferred it when he hated her.

"If you two lovebirds are done trying to feed the entire hive, I need to go rip the bandaid off so we can all pretend this never happened," she grumbled.

Today was the day for the to re-introduce herself to the hive, after her incredibly long absence. She wasn't alone. The other rogues were with her. The medical officer seemed to be doing well, taking to a crystal pony casually about some interest. Femur locked eyes with her and gave her a salute and a smile. He was trying to encourage her. Had she really fallen that low, that her bugs needed to encourage her instead of the other way around?

Stepping from the car with the duo, she saw them all in their... annoyingly colorful new forms. She could feel waves of anxiety from a lot of them. But there stood Thorax, with his brother at the front. Pharynx was unreadable. Good. Thorax was resolute. As much as she hated him, she was glad he was at least getting the qualities of a leader. The hive must thrive.

She stepped up to him and looked him all over. He was as tall as her now. She tried to think of something to say, but the horrid silence hung over them. Even Thorax was at a loss, and if she remembered correctly, he never shut up.

"Hey... Thorax," Cadance broke the silence. "We're finally here!"

Thorax shook his head to free him from his thoughts.

"Good... good afternoon! I hope the train ride wasn't too bad."

"It was very comfy, actually. How's the hive?"

"Well!" He answered cheerfully. Chrysalis wasn't sure what came over her, but she started rapid firing questions at them.

"How's the swarm? Everyone healthy?"

"Well swarm isn't quite what we'd use, but we have very few ill cha--"

"-- Are there any recent broods? Are the hatchlings doing well?"

"Only a small one, but all very healthy!" He said trying to keep up.

"What about perimeters? You're keeping it open to invite guests, but do you have security for the changelings that live here?"

"Actually, I'll answer that." Pharynx stepped up. "I'm making sure we're not getting too soft. I'm chief security officer around here." Thorax nodded.

"My brother was.. Not too comfortable with adopting the new ways either. But every 'ling has a place here. Maulwurf attacks have slowed significantly thanks to him. The hive has never been more secure."

"I'm also working on the ... feelings thing," he said, sounding bored. "Like, I'm feeling conflicted seeing you now," he added, more sharply. She rolled her eyes.

"At least not everyone has given up on my teachings," she grumbled.

"Chrysalis.." started Thorax.. He put a hoof on her shoulder. She involuntarily jolted at the touch.

"We haven't given up on everything we were in some weird attempt to spite you."

"I doubt that! Highly."

Pharynx rolled his eyes. "Trust me. I wouldn't let him if he tried."

"Right. Phy, you're actually a great example. No one has had more trouble adjusting than him. He used to stomp around here and tear up decorations and try to intimidate everyone..."

"Watch it," Pharynx warned.

"... But he found his place here, like everyone else. We don't need to discard who we were. We need to acknowledge it, and move forward. To not do so would be to leave behind all the good things you taught us. 'No changeling left behind. The hive thrives when we act as one. You're you, but you're also part of our collective.' You gave us unity and purpose, in a time when we had neither. You taught us to be tough, true to ourselves, and think about the greater picture. You will prevented us from ever giving up even after our worst loss ever." He blinked apologetically to the princess ".. And kept us going."

It was a fine speech, if not extremely ponylike.

"What are you trying to say?" she said quietly.

"Well my point is, we haven't forgotten you. Good and bad. It.. will be extremely rough. I won't lie and pretend there isn't Changelings here who fear you. Some who are even angry with you."

She scowled. Of course. How ungrat-

He held up a hoof to continue.

"But, with time, we can work on those things. Changelings are tenacious to the end. You'll always have a home here." He ended his rousing speech with a smile.

"And if you start shit I'll kick your ass myself," Pharynx added, not much into the emotional catharsis.

"Charming." She rolled her eyes at him.. This was it, though. She was back home. Her people. Her hive. They belonged to her.

They belonged to her?

"What if I wanted to rule again?" There was a great unrest among the various changelings, murmuring spreading quickly.

"I'd... be open to the idea." Thorax admitted. "Not... immediately. But my duty is to the hive.. If it would help everyone I would step down."

"Eh you can't do any worse than he does." Pharynx snarked over the mummers, swiftly growing louder.

Did she want to rule again? She almost had it. Everything she wanted was nearly in her grasp again. The hive was safe and strong. And hers.

And hers...

"No." A wave of silence hit the bugs like water. "You're far too easy to forgive, Thorax. You can't simply let me take over. Do you notice how I haven't even apologized? Don't be so eager to throw away your crown, fool!" The voices grew cacophonous.

"Are... you sorry?" They questioned for a moment.

"Of course I am. What do you take me for? ...I'm sorry I didn't know a better way for us. I'm sorry that I oft put my needs before the hive. I'm sorry that I couldn't move on. I'm sorry I left you leaderless and without guide. Honestly I'm still sorry our big plans for the wedding didn't work."

Cadance huffed, pouting in an exaggerated manner at that last comment.

"But I'm also not sorry we failed. We... You would have never gotten to this point of I got all the things I wanted. I'm not sorry to see my hive THRIVING. I'm not sorry that I led us out of darkness, even if my ways were wrong. And I'm not sorry you've taken over. You'll make a fine leader."

Thorax blushed blueish before clearing his throat.

"I think... I can speak for most of us when I say... apology accepted." He turned seeing for confirmation. For the most part, there was sound of muffled agreement. He smiled.

"Welcome home, Chrysalis."

Author's Note

We're at Max level obscurity with this chapter's title. This is from a track I found on the new grounds audio portal many, many years ago. The artist is Rainwave

happy surprise update friday!

Close in the distance

Chrysalis simply couldn't relax. It was the dead of night, and she just couldn't seem to sleep. It was like there was a burning in her chest she couldn't extinguish. She'd grown used to her heart constantly giving her trouble, but this was too much. She looked at the mass of bodies around her. Changelings usually slept in a big pile, especially these days. She was on her own (by choice,) but she should be used to that by now. How many nights had she spent in those dark woods? Now if she could just get some rest...

It was no use. In a moment she was on her hooves and walking. The crisp night air bit at her, but she was Empire hardened now. It hardly bothered her.

She found herself wondering what it must be like over there today. Would Sunset be fast asleep, ready for a long day of serving customers? Would Cadance be awoken again by her young daughter?

Cadance...

She stopped in place and gazed over the new hive. Under the light of the moon the quiet and dim nursery looked ghostly. She could spy the feelings form from here (at least Pharynx shared her exasperation with that one.) However she could see one more thing.

Her eyes locked on the figure of Thorax bathed in pale moonlight. It was like that annoying dreamwalker was giving her a sign. With a sigh she headed over to them.

Thorax jolted a little, but quickly smiled.

"Oh hey Chrysalis! Can't sleep?"

"I could say the same to you," she grumbled.

"Ha, busted, I guess... I got up for some water and decided to enjoy the moonlight. It's a full moon tonight. Isn't it pretty?" he replied cheerfully.

"I suppose." And with that she took a seat next to him. Thorax gazed up at the moon a little longer before finally speaking again, though their compound eyes were still locked on the sky.

"So, what's on your mind?"

"Why the hell are you asking me that?..."

"Because you're part of our hive? Plus: you're another creature, and one which is not currently hostile. There's no reason not to make sure you're ok."

She hated it when he made sense.

"My heart has been bothering me recently. I keep getting these weird feelings when I'm out with others. There's a burning in there that I can't quench."

Thorax's laughter filled the empty night. She hissed. "What's so funny??"

"Sorry." He rubbed an eye. "It's just really funny to think that... the one of us who reads emotions the best never thought to read her own."

She blinked rapidly in response. "Excuse me??"

"Don't get mad! It's true. You're just experiencing positive feelings. I didn't know that you didn't get a lot of those. Sorry we weren't better bugs. Maybe you would have know these things before if we had been."

He dared give her sympathy?!

"Look, I'll prove it. Why don't you think about some of the people you enjoy being around over there. I heard you had a Kirin friend. Think about her real quick."

She listened. Her friend was a powderkeg of both passion and fury. She admired her endless spirit. She was the first creature to be kind to her in a while. Even her job was motivated by passion. That mare could cook.

"Ok let's see. I can read ... you really admire things about her, like her passion. And you also worry if she's doing ok. Correct?"

"More or less," she said, slightly caught off-guard. So this is what it was like on the receiving end..

"Alright, let's do an easier one... Think about how you feel about Cadance. I'm pretty sure I already know the answer, but..."

She nodded. He didn't need to say anything else.

She closed her eyes and thought about the pink princess. Her charming smile. The way she carried herself. She thought about the first time she met her. Locked away in a dingy basement. Tears and righteous rage filling her eyes. She hadn't really seen her as another living creature then. Just a pawn for her game. But now, thinking back on it...

Thorax was looking at her with an eyebrow raised.

"What is it," she huffed.

He chuckled at her, and she repeated herself with more venom. "What is it?!"

"That was not what I was expecting at all. You're in love with her. It's honestly really sweet."

"Cease your japes, hatchling. Don't be absurd."

But Thorax only rolled his eyes at her barbed words. "It's true. We know love better then most creatures. I never thought things would work out for you like that but I'm here for it."

"I want a second opinion. You're clearly out of practice."

"You really wanna risk more bugs knowing about this?" he teased. She snorted hot air from her nostrils, as if dispelling his claims.

"Even if you were right, then... you might as well not be."

"What on Equestria do you mean by that Chrysalis?"

"She's married, you fool! AND she's a pony princess. If we were to become 'lovers' it would be... political suicide! Nothing about us would work out even if I wanted it to!"

"Okay, one: no, it wouldn't. We're respected now. That would only increase the influence of both kingdoms. Two: you do remember ponies can be poly like changelings right?"

She took a second to pause. Polycules were fairly common in changeling society, but less so in pony society. It was kind of the forbidden fruit. Tricking one partner was hard, but multiple? A nightmare.

However, polycules often had the most nourishing and filling love (if they were being maintained well.) She had told her changelings to avoid them, as the risk was too high, no matter the reward. But some still failed to listen.

"I'm sure she has zero interest in that," she concluded.

"Do you have any interest in that?"

"What does it matter?! Of course not!" she barked back at him.

"Well if that's really true, let's do our little test again. Think about Shining Armor, and we'll see how you feel about him."

He finished with the most annoying smug look another bug had given her.

"Okay, even if I did-"

"You're avoiding the clear way to find out~"

"Quiet! Even if I did, that would be no help. We have formed an uneasy alliance, but she will not soon forget what I've done to her."

She slumped down and let out a heavy sigh. She missed her stick...

"Well, think about it this way. Cadance is tied to exactly one emotion: love. If she wasn't interested in that, she would have probably dissuaded you. Has she been doing so?"

"No; for some reason she even thought it keen to wedge me between the two of them on the train ride here." She recalled the events of just a few days ago. Her wings went rigid all of a sudden. Thorax chuckled.

"I think she knows," he teased.

That strange comment Shining made the other day.. Did he know too? Was she the only one out of the loop about her wayward heart???

She groaned and covered her face.

"I hate this. Why can't I go back to being feared and respected?! It's so much less bother..."

"Is that really what you want, though?" his soft tone responded.

"Yes."

"Really?"

"... Probably." She rolled onto her back. "You're an ass. When did you get so smart anyways?"

"Probably when I got these." He tapped his royal antlers. "Plus I had a lot of good teachers. One... Tried... To teach me how to be tough. And the other taught me matters of the heart."

"Don't give me that crap. You're hardly the hatchling you were. If you weren't fit to rule, I'd raze this kingdom out from under you, even having gone soft as I am."

"I'm sure." He chuckled. "It means a lot. It's kinda weird, but... sometimes I want to make you proud."

"Fine, fine. Ahem. I'm proud of you, Thorax. Please continue to ensure the hive prospers, even as our definition of who the hive is grows more broad."

He looked at her for a moment before restraining her. Ugh. She half-heartedly put a hoof around their shoulder.

"You should leave the hive." He said softly.

"What?? We were just doing this bonding crap, what do you mean??"

"No, no... Not like.." he sighed. "You will always have a place here, but if you don't deal with that heart of yours you'll never feel at home. Go back to the empire and be honest with her. With him too! You're the toughest bug we know. If anyone can pull it off, it's you."

She let out a weak chuckle. "Fine. Flattery will get you everywhere. I'll head out tomorrow. Don't let my hive burn down while I'm gone, or I'll make sure you wish you went with it."

He saluted her. "We fight and prosper together, your majesty."

"For the hive," she replied with a practiced cadence.

Author's Note

This chapter has a title based on FFXIV! The MMO with the really long free trial. The song is great but I wouldn't recommend looking it up if you haven't played. It hits different when you've been playing forever.

Happy update day! Gonna be a double update week again.

Boy things are heating up huh? I think the next chapter is one of my absolute favs

The lives we tried to reclaim

Author's Note

Track title is from skullgirls this time.. This is a long one huh?

This chapter had to have sections of it rewritten three times! Normal I get in a flow and then send my first draft to my editor, but I wasn't satisfied. Hopefully the extra effort was worth it!

The lives we tried to reclaim

Chrysalis was pretty sure she didn't have a heart, but there was a burning in the place where it was meant to be.

For long she had struggled with the infernal organ, but now she was giving into the whims of something she wasn't sure she even had. They had taken her to the air. The train was nice, but not fast enough. She needed to end this now.

Her wings buzzed like a hummingbird, but she wasn't satisfied. A quick adjustment, and two massive, birdlike wings grew to carry her to her unlikely goal. Why the hell was she doing this? She wondered if maybe she had been tricked or cursed. But, the fire kept burning. So she stayed the course.

This wasn't nearly fast enough. Huge wings would give her a quick burst of speed, but tire her out soon. She shifted again to something akin to an arrow: The windstream falcon. A magical bird which had the power to change the flow of wind just around it's tiny body. The peregrine falcon would be faster, but in this headwind she thought this the wiser choice.

The first sign she was getting closer was the snow eating at her feathered body. She had thought she was hardened by the Empire, but truth was, the magic around the place kept it much more bearable. Here she could feel it seeping into her hollow bones, but her fire still raged.

Over the horizon, she could see her destination. The palace shot up like impossible spires of ice in the snow wastes. She put everything she had into it.

The place was finally closing in... Only, stopping was proving difficult. It was going to be a rough landing. She quickly scanned over the windows. There! In one, there was that annoying pink mare, and her equally annoying spouse, who gave her this curse. She shot through the window and...

"I hope she's getting along well over there." Cadance paced around the lavish interior.

"Honey, it's only been a few days," Shining Armor reassured her, playing with their young daughter. "Besides, she's tough as h- ..heck. Boy, I gotta watch what words I use..."

"If you teach our daughter any swears, I'm putting you in the dungeon." She smirked and gently bonked him on the head with a hoof.

"Ack! Assault! Help me, Flurry Heart! Oh my stars!"

The tiny alicorn giggled and blew a raspberry at her mother, who began stalking around the room as a pretend-monster for a bit until the group sat down to relax.

"... Shining, do you actually like her? We don't need to do this. Don't force yourself into stuff for me. Chrysalis is tough, and if we shoot her down she'll..." Shining cut through her small panic.

"Relax.. Like I said, if she ever actually figures that out, we'll give it a shot. If it doesn't work, it doesn't work. We gotta think about ourselves and our daughter." He lightly tickled the small creature on the belly, much to her amusement. "Would be nice to have another set of hooves helping anyways," he concluded.

That was true. Cadance assumed she had to at least know something about children. After all, she raised a whole hive. Cadance amused herself thinking of Chryssy looking motherly and doting. She was so cute.

When she first detected the changeling was falling for her, she was shocked. More so that they didn't even seem to realize. As princess of Love it was her power to visually see love between groups of creatures. If she focused she could see the bonds between her small family in this very room.

As it went on, she decided to simply throw caution to the wind and try it. Chrysalis was surprisingly agreeable, funny, snarky, and even caring. She was so proud of how far the bug had come already. To help matters, there was a beauty in her slender frame, like a sculpture or a work of art, twisted and strange but intriguing.

This worried her.

She had immediately gone to Shining to explain what was going on. Shining was... combative. He was open to the idea with anyone BUT her. However, after his little talk, things had kind of gotten better. He had seen the good she saw in the former queen when they first started staying at the castle.

If things didn't work out, at least she knew she had a real friend in her. She had far too few of those. Twilight was usually busy. She supposed Sunburst counted. He was a good sort, and their usual babysitter of choice. She should make time to simply visit with them at some point. Who else was there...?

It was at this moment Chrysalis came flying through the window like a knife through her thoughts, cutting them down. A child's scream, a crash, and a groan from a once-bird, now bug. She rushed to the side of the loved one who was currently injured.

Chrysalis shook off the pain and weariness from her small accident, only to see Cadance, already fussing over her. Flurry Heart had already calmed down. That child was so empathetic it was scary. Shining had set her down to rush to her side as well.

"My humble apologies for the rough landing."

She gave the trio a grin. Cadance gave her a surprsingly grouchy look, even for the moment at hand. She turned to her spouse.

"Darling, she's absolutely freezing, get her a blanket!" The concern rang out in her voice.

Chrysalis hadn't yet had the sheer cold hit her, but she was becoming increasingly aware her body shook like a leaf in a storm. The pink princess fussed over her, looking her up and down for injuries.

Cadance had half a mind to give her a quick rap on the head. Saying something so callous when she was clearly in terrible shape! Shining returned with the blanket, and she helped him fold her up in the soft material. That wouldn't do. She was... so unreadable. Those beautiful eyes were jade veils, hiding the truth in plain sight. Years of keeping it all in. Maybe she could even relate.

"I'm going to fetch you some hot chocolate," she decided. "You look like you're going to go into shock if we're not careful."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes at this.

"It's hardly that bad. I simply made some minor miscalculations."

Fury wrapped the princess and Chrysalis looked on in confusion. Why the hell was she mad now?? But she knew the answer. That tiny tinge of concern. She could feel it from Shining too.

"Fine, if you reaaaaaally don't want a hot chocolate." The snark. That was the Cadance she grew to...

Appreciate. Chrysalis let herself laugh.

"Fine, fine. I can't say no twice. Go on." She made a dismissive gesture, trying to look stoic outside; inside she felt like she had BECOME ice.

Cadance gave her a little smug smile and trotted off. She didn't want to see her go, but turning to her side she felt... relief. Shining was still there. For her. The real her. After all this time. She grumpily leaned into the pony, purely for body heat of course.

Cadance watched the two move in and smiled. She could hear soft chatter coming from them. Descending the stairs, she went to a small kitchen, one designed for personal use. The mundane task of preparing a drink could ill distract her from what was really on her mind. Chrysalis. And not just because of her current injuries. She had this heavy feeling in her heart. She knew it well even if she didn't want to acknowlege it. Did Chrysalis make such an insane journey simply to see them? For what reason? She couldn't dare answer her own question. She sat and watched the pot boil, beginning to pace.

Shining was giving Chrysalis that annoying, smug look, but it wasn't distracting from the heavy feeling in her heart. God, how she hated that foul thing. Constantly giving her strange sensations. She had to come to terms, however, with the fact that she now knew why.

Instead, she decided to tease shinning.

"What on equestria is that look for Mi Amore? Did you suffer a sudden injury as well?"

"Nope. Juuuuusst happy to see my favorite bug. You know, even Flurry Heart missed you."

She doubted that.

"I wasn't gone for that long, you fool..." She pointed out bluntly.

"That's what I tried to tell Cadance! But she was still fussing over you. Guess you leave a positive impact, you old grump-bug." He elbowed her gently. Ugh. That annoying sense of humor. Stupid charming Shining. Still, once again, his words dug into her. Why was Cadance so worried for her? She must know she could take care of herself quite well. Maybe she thought she'd start a fight? Or maybe...

No. She dare not answer her own question. The answer, she was simply not willing to accept.

She was saved from her comfortable hell when a small vision of pink entered her view.

Cadance opened the doorway and smiled at the sight of the two, now three, in a pile. The bug was shaking much less, which was a good sign. She set the tray gently down, and carefully handed out the hot beverages. She plopped herself down dirrectly on the other side of the bug, gently moving Flurry Heart to make room. The foal now sat peacefully on her lap. Even with her unreadable expressions, Cadance imagined the former queen grumpily but happily accepting this embrace. It made her chuckle. Chrysalis rolled her eyes at her and looked away, but there wasn't anywhere to look but at Shining, and that was no help.

"Drink your hot chocolate, dear." She gave the bug a winning smile.

Chrysalis took a sip. She was really starting to be a fan of this hot chocolate. And the love coming off this one...well it nearly made her spit it out. Surely this was only her imagination. But her minor discomfort was interupted.

Cadance knew it was time.

"Why did you even make such a dangerous trip?"

Cadance looked her in the eyes, attempting to radiate the soft care she felt for her on the inside, outside. The bug looked uncomfortable in her gaze. Had she been right all along?

"The hive and I are both fine. I simply... had a message which couldn't wait."

Chrysalis hated that look in her eyes. The concern and confusion. Why was this so so hard? There wasn't any getting around it though.

"Thorax has informed me of some feelings I wasn't aware of," declared the former queen.

Cadance felt her heart skip a beat. Was this finally it?? Here and now?? She never thought this moment would come. She steadied herself to say the obvious.

"What... did they tell you?" replied the princess.

Chrysalis felt like there was a rock in her chest. But she had to get this out.

"Thorax believes I am in love with you. However. I am well aware you're a married woman, and I am no fool. Leaving this unsaid, though, would only make things worse for me." Chrysalis paused to gather herself. "You're a worthy ruler, worth looking up to. Kind to a fault, gorgeous by pony standards, even-tempered when it matters. Shining; you already know my thoughts on you, but to reiterate, I find you charming. I've said it all now. Let's all pretend that didn't happen, please."

Cadance refused. She watched Chrysalis's confused expression as she wrapped her in a hug, looking at her like she was trying to detail her out something. Her heart felt light and full.

"No, we won't. I knew how you felt about me. We've already been talking about maybe allowing this. All three of us. As partners."

Chrysalis felt the venom in her throat.

"Absolutely not! You do realize I'm political suicide for you right?? And what about your young daughter. Do you think she's really going to trust a monster like ME?"

As if prompted, Flurry Heart flew over and gently plopped herself on her head like a hat. Chrysalis grumbled.

"It seems to me like she gets along with you fine." Cadance smirked. She didn't need to be a changeling or a princess to read these emotions. They were clear on her face.

"For the record... You're both great, and I'm plenty happy to try this out with both of you. It took me a long time to warm up to the real you, Chrysalis but.. Yeah. I think you're alright. We can work this out. We'll be like...a big family." Shining finished with a smile. "Let's at least try."

And with that they locked eyes. First with shining then with each other. Maybe things could work? Did she dare try?

They locked eyes. First with shining then with each other. She could feel the other's yearning, even as someone who could only read emotion. She opened her eye to it.

She could see the love flowing between them
She could see the love flowing between them

An unknown harmony, invisible to all but her
An unknown harmony, invisible to all but her

Perhaps this was meant to be?
Perhaps this was meant to be?

All she needed was three words.
All she needed was three words.

"I love you." The two spoke together.

And they sealed it with a kiss.

Chrysalis had tasted love many times. But this was so different. It was so pure and filling. Where her heart was meant to be there was a warmth. She didn't fight it. Her lips locked with that.. Stupid.. Cute pink horse.. And she hardly wanted to pull away. She'd experienced so much love but never really knew it. Just this once she'd let the infernal organ do as it please.

Cadance hardly wanted to pull away. This was wrong, right? She was a married woman, but looking over to her spouse, he simply had a smile a mile wide. No, love wasn't wrong. Love was consensual and beautiful. She watched sparks near-visibly fly. Chryssy needed this. SHE needed this. She thought she knew love. She'd experienced it when she first kissed Shining Armor. But here she was experiencing it all over again.

The two finally stepped away from each other. Chrysalis took a second to gather herself. That was.. shell-shocking. But someone was left out, weren't they? That wouldn't do. She marched right to and planted a kiss on that dumb, handsome face. Shining looked shocked, but she didn't care. She had "stolen" his love again.

For old times' sake.

"... Both of you, in fact," Chrysalis added as she looked to Shining. "I love you both."

"You know," Shining said with a smirk. "That was pretty good. But I think another one is in order. Gotta see who the better kisser is, you know."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes and thought about pressing her hoof against his snout. Instead Cadance gave her a wink. She understood the assignment.

The duo planted a kiss on either cheek, and that cute little idiot blushed like a tomato growing ripe.

It wasn't long before she was wrapped up in a joint embrace, stronger together. She felt something pulling at her. Her body was ready to change... But she wasn't.

"Please." She thought. "Let me just have this moment. Not yet."

Her pleas were answered. She stayed her beautiful obsidian self. Right here. Surrounded by more love then she could ever possibly want. Because she had earned it.

This was her new family.

Cold days in the woods were over. Now she had a place she belonged.

She wouldn't let anything come between them.

Flurry Heart wiggled her way into the hug.

"Well, maybe one exception," she thought to herself with a chuckle.

Evening Dreamscape

Chrysalis found herself in the noodle shop with her good friend, Sunset Snow. Something felt kinda off, but for some reason, it didn't bother her. The proprietor of the... What was it called? The Laughing Nirik. She sat just across from her. They had just finished a conversation.

"So, yes. We kissed. It was... Quite nice.."

She couldn't find words to say. This part felt normal. The kirin laughed, and wrapped her in a hug.

"I'm so proud of you! Honestly, to think I know two royals now..." She smiled. "And I'm just some noodle seller. Crazy."

"You're more than that," she argued. "Don't be absurd. You're also a close friend. You know how few of those I have?"

"That's just cause you haven't tried too hard yet. Honestly, I think you could get more popular then my miso on a cold day." She smirked. Just like she remembered it. Deja vu?

"I try not to have too swell of a head these days," she sighed. The Nirik was perceptive as always.

"You worried about being too much like your old self? Well, stop it. You're a better creature now. It's not possible for you to go back to your old ways, and I, for one, want to see you be your real self." The kirin gave her that winning smile. Chrysalis smiled back.

"Thank you, Miss Snow. Has the shop been doing okay without me? Have you hired anyone else?"

"Busy enough to turn my orange mane to grey; but I'm tough as they come."

"Why have you not hired somecreature else?" She raised an eyebrow.

"Feels wrong. I keep thinking my favorite little Moony is meant to be working here with me." Chrysalis chuckled.

"Fine. I'll have to come work with you for part time. As much as you can actually pull me away from those two." She smirked herself. Sunset laughed.

"Deal! You owe me some cuddlin' too." Chrysalis rolled her eyes.

"I love you, you foolish Kirin."

She realized her mistake too late. Foul magic wrapped her body, lifting her into the air!

"No!" She cried out, banging the side of her rear legs like it could make them stop. But the repugnant colors still crawled up her body. The metamorphosis would not be halted.

She was placed down on the floor unceremoniously. All eyes on her. Her main carpace a disgusting bright yellow. Her shell a repugnant green. Bright blue, unwieldy antlers. This was her worst nightmare! She had to live like this??

"You don't." The princess of the night entered the shop. She bowwed her head and with a quick cast she was returned to her old self. Her true self. It was beginning to come into focus with her new lucidity. This had already happened... With some key exceptions.

"For once, I'm glad to see you." She sighed. "I owe you thanks for that."

"We only do as we have always done." There was that 'we' crap. She focused. Yup. Very faint, but it was like there was two of her. Honestly, it was starting to bother her now.

"So you fear the change that is to come? Is this only because of your appearance? Surely you can alter that."

"Yes, but my true appearance would still exist! Can you imagine how horrid it would be? Imagine if you were pink instead of that dignified dark color. Would really ruin your whole 'dark and mysterious' image."

"I thought you were quite the fan of pink these days." Luna let out a little chuckle. Chrysalis hissed at her.

"Ha ha. Aren't you supposed to be helping me, dreamwalker?"

"Humor oft aids the dreamer in calming down," she said, through eyes filled with mirth. "Now, let's discuss the true terror that twists into you."

"It's pretty much just... Not wanting to look stupid. You're looking too much into this." But Luna shook her head.

"Does this sound familiar? You're wanting to change, but find yourself caught between your old self and your new. You're still chained by your past. You know you must move forward, but that frightens you more then returning to what you are," she concluded.

"Well aren't you clever," she growled. "I should start getting moon repellent. Double strength, so I get rid of both of you."

"Both of us?" The moon princess tilted her head. Oh. Did she really not know? This was the fun kind of evil. The kind where she just got one over on someone! No one has to get hurt, and she got the satisfaction.

"Yes, princess. Were you not even aware there's a second you in there? I can feel two sets of emotions so easily. Even Thorax could pick it up." It was actually extremely difficult, but it was also much funnier if she pretended it wasn't.

"Ah. I suppose the ruse is at its end." What was she talking about? All of a sudden, another pony stepped OUT of princess Luna. Her gorgeous stary mane turned a simple blue. Out stepped the figure, clad in armor.

Nightmare Moon.

Though she wasn't afraid, she still took a step back. Why on Equestria would Luna do something so counter to her interests?

The tall black mare gave a haughty laugh.

"The look upon thy face is priceless. Relax. I can not exit the realm of dreams, nor do I mean you any harm." Such confidence. And using singular pronouns now? How intriguing.

"So you remain? Even after all that's happened." Chryssy really hoped Luna would be the one to answer, and she was pleased when she was.

"We have come to terms with, and accepted every part of our part-life. What we did. What we turned into. Nightmare Moon is a part of us. She'll never truly leave, and to spurn her is foolish." Still using we, eh? Chryssy figured that meant that Luna at least considered both parts of her to be one creature, while Nightmare Moon was distinct enough to be her own thing.

"Not that she didn't try. My better half summoned a Tantalus just to taunt herself each and every night. For penace. How absurd." She gave a wolfish smile to the other moon princess. They blushed.

"We are.. Glad to be past that. We've healed." She finished.

"Hmmm. Does Tia know she has two sisters?"

They nodded in unison.

"It's more complicated then that, but yes our other half thought it wise to inform her. And so here I remain. It's not so bad. I get plenty of company." Nightmare Moon snarked. Luna chuckled and gave her a little nudge.

"We've made peace with ourselves. Given your dreamscape on this night, we hope to see the same from you one day." Luna said, going back to her usual sage like tone.

"I've made plenty of peace." Chrysalis spat back. Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes.

"Thou art a poor liar, queen of shades. We've seen your worries. If anything, I find it refreshing that you're feeling guilty in the slightest. But remember not to be a fool like this one and let it consume you." She gestured to Luna, who quickly added on:

"And don't be afraid of who you'll become. It might feel like the world is ending, but that is only because the cost of your new life will be your old. It's... a worthy trade."

"Right... Thank you... Princesses. I suppose this is where we depart again."

"Hold a moment, shifter." That was Nightmare Moon. She turned. Luna had a worried look on her face.

"What is it? If you're hoping to 'hang out' it would be better to do it in the waking world." She raised an eyebrow at the duo.

"Oho, you wish it was so simple. No! You've seen through us, but now, I will see through you?" Luna looked at Nightmare Moon as she spoke, butting in.

"We would love to enjoy your company. What's a good time?" But she ignored the moon princess.

"What are you getting at, Nightmare Moon."

"Luna does not like to pry, but I have zero issues with it. I glanced through your memories via your dreams and I found something you don't seen to know about yet."

She felt anger boil over. This invasion of privacy was too far! As much as Chrysalis was growing fond of this darker half, she was as bad as Luna was originally.

"Speak plainly. You're already trying my patience."

Nightmare Moon gave her a haughty laugh before doing just that. "There are huge gaps in your memory after a specific point in time. Consistently. Your memories are mostly intact before this point in time, but after? Not so."

Her anger went cold.

"What?" She choked out in disbelief.

"How old are you? To your knowledge."

"Close to a thousand years old."

"And yet you knew of Grogar, didn't you? Not even Luna knew of them. Though the nightmare did. They were born of them. As a spawn of them I knew. But why did you know?"

"Why shouldn't I know??" she spat.

"Because at your earliest whole memory, they were long gone."

Chrysalis sat in stunned silence. That couldn't be so. She was pretty sure she had even met him.. Not the imposter version, the real deal. How could that have happened then??

There was only one thing to ask.

"Do you know when my memories begin to... Break? Are you able to tell that??"

Nightmare Moon let out a horrifying laugh.

"Of course. Right around the Fall of the Crystal Empire."

Author's Note

Sonic music again. This time from the excellent "before the sequel" fan game. Check out some of fepard's latest work. The spark series is superb.

We'll be getting into more minor au territory as lead as far as the comics are concerned. We're going to get into the part where I try to adopt certain key aspects of them. Hang on for a wild ride!

This also sort of marks the beginging of the third arc. Arc one is, of course, "Chrysalis's final Gambit" and ends with "the fall."

Arc two would have to be titled something like "A growing heart"

Arc three?

"Revenge and Rememberance."