Father Time

Chapters

Today was warm
Today I tasted love
Today I was proud of my sons
Today I felt my Beloved
Today I sensed magic
Today I spent the last time with my beloved

Today was warm

Deep within a crumbling spire, amidst the decrepit ruins of a once-mighty empire, an unsettling silence lingered—one that had reigned for far too long. The vibrant buzz of changelings, their membranous wings fluttering like a thousand whispered secrets, had faded into memory. Now, only the distant howl of the wind remained, echoing through the empty halls, save for the sound of hoofsteps—one pair, distinct and unwavering.

Celestia walked through the labyrinthine tunnels, her heart heavy yet resolute. She turned left, then right, navigating the familiar route with an ease born from countless visits to this desolate place. Changeling sentinels bowed their heads in reverence as she passed, though Celestia could see the glimmer of unshed tears in their eyes, remnants of a grief that would not fade.

Eventually, she reached her destination—a throne wrought from jagged rock, its once-majestic silhouette now betraying its sorrowful decline. And there sat her friend, the once-feared Queen of the Changelings, awakening groggily from a dreamless slumber.

They had taken the throne room from the kingdom and the changelings all the way to ponyville, to make it easier for them to visit Chrysalis.

"Hello, old friend..." Celestia’s voice trembled at first, but filled the emptiness like a tender caress.

"What? ...Can’t you see... your queen is... is...?" Chrysalis stuttered, her words heavy with the weight of age and fatigue.

The once-piercing emerald gleam of her eyes had softened, dulled to a pale echo of their former brilliance. They struggled to focus on Celestia, drifting away as if searching for a world long lost. Her carapace, once a resilient armor, now flaked and cracked, a testament to the years of solitude.

"The...the wedding... is it time? At last?" Chrysalis murmured, the hope in her voice wavering like a fragile flame battling a relentless wind.

Celestia felt a wave of pity wash over her, the familiar ache in her chest tightening. She stepped closer, her heart breaking at the sight of this proud queen, now reduced to an old shadow of herself. With a gentle tone, the sun princess offered the words that Chrysalis desperately craved.

"Yes, my queen. Preparations are well in hand. Soon, you shall have all you desire."

Chrysalis's torn wings twitched weakly as she drew in a breath, a sound akin to relief escaping her cracked lips. She sank back into her throne, a flicker of joy igniting in her dilapidated form.

"Exc...ellent. Soon we’ll have... all the love we could need..." A fit of coughing rattled her, and Celestia instinctively stepped back, watching in sorrow as the queen’s body betrayed her.

"Please, rest now. You’ve waited so long," Celestia said softly, wishing to shield her old friend from the harshness of reality.

Chrysalis offered a weak attempt at a smirk, a flicker of recognition dancing in her fading gaze. “Leave me... I require rest…”

As Celestia turned to retrace her steps through the honeycomb of tunnels, the weight of grief pressed upon her. Familiar echoes of laughter and competition filled her mind. She whispered a farewell to the queen, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. But before she could escape the cavernous chamber, a firm voice stopped her in her tracks.

"Celestia... why do you humor this old woman?”

Celestia pivoted, her heart racing as she found Chrysalis again, the queen’s eyes now ablaze with an unexpected clarity. Gone were the wisps of confusion that had shrouded her mind, replaced by a depth of awareness that made Celestia hold her breath.

"Despite… it being pointless," Chrysalis mused, anguish flitting across her countenance.

“I wanted you to feel happiness once more, even if it exists only in your memories,” Celestia confessed, the words trailing off as Chrysalis’s expression fell.

“I am broken... But... for what it’s worth... Thank you for being my friend. Tell… starlight I said hello,” she whispered, her voice a fragile thread as uncertainty flickered in her eyes.

Celestia was startled by her asking about Twilight’s Pupil, Starlight was long gone, she remembered how Starlight helped Thorax reform Chrysalis after the war with Sombra.

“Thorax?... Is that you? Guards... guar...ds…” Chrysalis almost shouted but she coughed again.

Her eyes grew dull, the light fading as she sank back into the depths of her own despair, looking as lifeless as she had been when Celestia first arrived.

“I’m sorry, old friend,” Celestia murmured, her heart shattering silently, piecing together the memories of their past—the laughter, the battles, it wasn’t easier each time she and the other princesses chose to visit their loved friend.

With one last look at the slumbering queen, Celestia turned and walked away, leaving the once-thriving lair of changelings to descend back into silence, save for her muffled sobs, echoing against the cracked walls—a lament for the pain that lingered long after the sun had began to go down and the kingdom got darker.

Today I tasted love

Cadence walked into the throne room, passing brightly colored changelings who looked at her with somber expressions, yet they said nothing. How could they, knowing their old leader had been reduced to this? She pressed on, trying her best to maintain a straight face, each step echoing the weight of history that now felt like a tomb. The memories of their past flashed like ghosts in her mind, memories now tinged with loss. The weight of tears filled her eyes, but she refused to let them fall, determined to uphold the fading dignity of the moment.

As she approached, she saw Chrysalis struggling to move her hooves, a half-hearted smile sagging on her face, a shadow of the regal queen she once was. The vibrant power that had once filled the throne room had all but vanished, replaced by a stillness that felt suffocating. The walls, adorned with remnants of past glories, now hung heavy with the sorrow of dreams unfulfilled.

“A... at last. Give me the dress,” Chrysalis said, her voice tired and raspy, as if she were speaking to a ghost rather than an audience. The words tasted of nostalgia and regret, a longing for the days when she commanded fear and admiration.

Cadence stepped forward, her heart aching. With trembling magic, she pulled out a tattered dress, one that had seen many years. It was ripped and stained; memories surged within her, of fierce rivalries and moments that had, at one time, seemed like battles between two queens fighting for their places in the world. Now, those memories felt like relics of a past that could never return.

She led the dress with her magic to Chrysalis, who fumbled repeatedly to grasp it, her once graceful hooves now trembling and fragile. Each struggle was a painful reminder of what had been lost, not just for Chrysalis but for all the changelings who had once rallied behind her. As she finally managed to hold it, Chrysalis’s body cracked and popped, the sound almost breaking Cadence’s heart. “Thank you,” she whispered, her tone heavy with fatigue, but beneath that weariness lay something deeper—a flicker of despair, an understanding that every stroke of fate had conspired against her.

Cadence felt a tear slip down her cheek, the sorrow of witnessing a once-mighty queen reduced to this. The room filled with memories of laughter now silenced.

Cadence watched, a flicker of effort sparked within Chrysalis. The queen shuddered, trying to shift into her form, but it was a struggle. Cadence could see the visible toll that it took on her. Finally, with a soft gasp, Chrysalis attempted to mirror Cadence’s appearance. The transformation drained her energy, and she stumbled slightly, struggling to hold the illusion.

“Help me... back to my throne,” Chrysalis rasped, her voice barely above a whisper, as if the words themselves were heavy burdens. Cadence quickly stepped forward to support her, guiding her gently back to her seat. As they settled, Chrysalis's eyes flickered with a moment of clarity, a brief spark in the depths of fatigue.

“Cadence... I’m glad to see you,” she said, her tone softer, almost vulnerable. “Where is Shining? I haven’t seen him for a while. Is he coming over to have dinner?”

The question caught Cadence off guard, and a wave of sorrow washed over her. Memories of happier times flooded her mind, making it hard to breathe. Chrysalis’s form—now so similar to her own—was tinged with the weight of their shared history; many moons ago, they had forged an alliance to stop Sombra's return, a task that had pushed aside their tumultuous past.

“Uh... he’s good, yeah,” Cadence managed to say, her voice thick with unspoken emotion. “He asks about you often. You’ll see him again.” The lie felt heavy on her tongue, especially when she thought of Shining Armor’s funeral, where Chrysalis had been present, reading a eulogy that spoke of loss and regret. Standing among those who mourned, lingered in Cadence’s mind. It was a moment that had blurred the lines between them, revealing a shared sorrow that both had experienced, though in different ways.

“That’s good...” Chrysalis replied softly, genuine in her words, before closing her eyes, fatigue overtaking her.

Cadence felt a surge of conflicting emotions—grief, compassion, and sadness twisting inside her. Unable to resist the need to comfort, she stepped forward and wrapped her hooves around Chrysalis in a gentle embrace. The act was filled with understanding and an aching sorrow that transcended their enmity. In that moment, they were no longer just a princess and a queen, but two beings connected by loss and fragile hope.

As she pulled away and turned to leave the throne room, Cadence glanced back one last time. The sight of Chrysalis, so fragile and weary in her borrowed form, struck a deep chord within her. The shadows of the throne room seemed to close in, and as she stepped out into the world beyond, she carried the weight of loss.

Today I was proud of my sons

Thorax looked at his brother with tears in his eyes as they gazed upon the hive that their mother was staying in. It brought back a mix of memories of better days and a sense of sorrow that they could never turn back time.

“It's gonna be alright, Thorax. I know this is tough, but you wanted to do this.” Pharynx gave his brother a reassuring hug. However, the pain in his voice betrayed his attempt to sound strong. "We both know it’s not what I wanted," Pharynx whispered, "but you're doing this for the greater good. For our hive."

Thorax gave a small nod as he wiped away the tears that kept falling down his face. “I know, Pharynx, but I do appreciate you coming with me.”

“King Thorax, if you're ready, please follow me.” A nurse, with a sympathetic look in her eyes, called out to the brothers, beckoning them to follow. Together they walked through the castle hall in silence, the only sound being the soft rustling of their clothes and the distant echo of their footsteps.

To Thorax, each step was agony. The thought of what lay ahead made every step feel like walking through gelatine, but he still followed the nurse. Pharynx wasn’t faring much better, but he knew he had to remain strong for his brother, for their hive, and for the memory of their old queen.

As they arrived at the entrance of their mother’s room, Pharynx placed a hand on Thorax’s shoulder before they entered. "Brother, if she gets worse, we'll get her the best treatment available. We'll do everything we can to help her." Thorax nodded, but the pain in his eyes told a different story.

When they finally entered the room, Chrysalis was lying in bed, surrounded by various medical equipment. Turning her head, she had a look of confusion on her face as she spoke. “Who… are you?” The sight of her vacant stare pierced Thorax's heart.

He quickly realized they didn’t look like they used to. Budging his brother, they both changed into their pre-royal states, transforming away from the imposing figures of their adult forms, hoping to recapture some semblance of family connection.

“Sorry, Mother, we were just practicing our transformation,” Thorax said, his voice barely above a whisper, tinged with sadness.

“Mother? I’m no one's mother,” Chrysalis replied, her words cutting deep into Thorax’s heart. "I still have to build my hive, or did I already do that? I know I was planning a wedding, but I can't seem to recall," she added, the confusion etched on her face.

Pharynx took a step forward, his voice steady despite the turmoil in his chest. “Your Highness, the hive is already complete.” Chrysalis seemed momentarily pleased before Pharynx continued, “Your subjects are moving in as we speak.” For a fleeting moment, it appeared she was beginning to regain a fragment of her former self.

“Wonderful, now that the hive is complete, we will be the anchor point against Sombra and his army," Chrysalis said, but her voice faltered as she began to cough violently. Thorax rushed to her side, giving her something to drink, anguish tightening his chest as he watched her struggle.

Pharynx, keenly aware of the situation, remembered the tales of their mother's strength and determination. He tried to bolster her spirits. “Yes, Your Highness, the Equestrians are holding him back until you can back them up.”

Once Chrysalis calmed down from her coughing fit, she seemed a little more lucid and murmured, “Excellent work, now... what was I saying? I can't seem to recall.” Just as her lucidity came.

As they turned to leave, Chrysalis suddenly cleared her throat, her gaze sharpening with unexpected clarity, and she whispered, "Thorax, Pharynx, please remember I fought for you both; even in this haze, you are still my greatest pride."

Thorax froze, heart racing, the surprise in his eyes mingling with sorrow as he stammered, "Mother? Is it really you?"

Pharynx's expression was no less shocked, the hardness he always wore melting away as he whispered, "But you’ve been… lost to us. How can you—"

Chrysalis’s smile was tinged with grief, and she simply replied, “For a moment, I’m here. Don’t let this memory fade.” The room seemed to weigh heavy with the enormity of her words, as her brief clarity slipped away like sand through their hooves.

As the sunlight filtered through the cracks in the walls, illuminating Chrysalis’s face, her moment of clarity began to dissolve like smoke in the breeze. Her eyes clouded again, drifting away from the present as she started to ramble, her voice taking on a wistful tone. “Ah, the spark of that long-ago life… when we ruled the skies and the love we took was ours…”

Thorax and Pharynx exchanged worried glances, their hearts sinking as they watched their mother slip back into the grasp of her dementia. “Do you remember, my beautiful children? The shadowy dance we had beneath the stars? And those brave, foolish ponies who dared cross us?”

Thorax felt a knot tighten in his chest. “Mom… please, stay with us.”

Chrysalis barely seemed to hear him, her thoughts racing back in time. “I would love to see Starlight again,” she mused, a smile flickering across her lips. “Such potential, that one. So clever! I remember how I funded her wedding. Such a beautiful time!” She chuckled, a hint of nostalgia in her tone. “And Trixie, oh, the way she sparkled on that day! Such talent wrapped in theatrics... Their happiness lit up the air, didn't it?”

Pharynx clenched his jaw, the ache of their mother’s fading memories hitting him hard. “Mom, we need you here with us… not lost in those memories.”

But Chrysalis simply continued to ramble, her thoughts drifting further and further away. “Do you think they’re happy? Do you think they remember how I helped them? Such wonderful plans, such delightful schemes… oh, how we danced!”

The sadness deepened in Thorax's eyes, and he stepped closer, his voice a gentle plea, “We remember, Mother. But we want you to remember us too—to be here with us now.”

Yet, Chrysalis’s gaze grew distant once more, her visage clouded, lost in a world far removed from their reality. “Ah, such memories,” she sighed wistfully, “if only I could weave them back together…”

In that moment, Thorax and Pharynx felt the weight of their loss, the rift between the mother they had known and the one slipping away from them, leaving only echoes of a past that would never return.

As their mother continued to fade into the maze of her memories, Thorax’s heart sank deeper with the weight of reality. He knew both Starlight and Trixie had passed 200 years ago, their lives long extinguished before he had even discovered the spell that kept his brother youthful.

The bittersweet truth hung heavy in the air—Starlight and Trixie were both buried in the Canterlot catacombs, their laughter and dreams now silenced beneath layers of stone. He felt a deep ache of longing in his chest; he could never bring them back to share in the life he had fought so hard to preserve for his family.

A new voice interrupted their visit. “I'm sorry to interrupt, but it's time for her medication.” Taking this moment, Thorax and Pharynx decided to leave, saying their goodbyes.

“Goodbye, Mother,” Thorax said, his voice cracking as he fought to contain his tears. His heart ached, remembering the proud queen who had once inspired them, now reduced to these moments of confusion.

“She's getting worse every day,” Thorax said with a heavy sigh as they walked away. “But at least her will is as strong as ever,” he added, trying to find solace.

Pharynx wrapped a hoof around his brother, squeezing gently. “We’ll get through this together.”

As they walked away, Thorax couldn’t help but remember the day their mother attended Ocellus’ graduation ceremony. She had been so proud, her eyes shimmering with joy as she cheered for her. Those memories of pride seemed so far away now.

Taking a deep breath, Thorax allowed the bittersweet recollections to wash over him. “Yeah, the price of being king, I suppose,” he said, forcing a weak smile as he walked alongside Pharynx, determined to support his brother and carry on the legacy of her.

Author's Note

Viper:

I worked day and night for this, it was a pleasure that I was asked by TheForce to guest write this chapter! Please check out my work, Here

Today I felt my Beloved

Luna closed her eyes. How many times had she done this? It wasn't any easier, but she had decided years ago to visit her wife more than the other princesses. It hurt her to see Chrysalis like this, watching her grow old, knowing that soon, her beloved would be gone. She pressed her hoof to her chest and held it there, allowing a tear to slip down her cheek.

She started walking again, passing changelings who greeted her with silence, pain etched in their eyes. She couldn’t look too long; it would pierce her heart more than it already was.

Turning toward a hall, she entered a room that a nurseling gestured her to. Inside lay Chrysalis, sleeping peacefully in her bed. Her mane was a mess, the once-luxurious strands now sparse, and Luna bit her lip to stifle her tears, holding in a sob as the sight broke her heart.

The nurseling asked softly, “Princess Luna, do you want me to wake her up?”

“No need...” Luna responded, stepping forward. Each second felt heavy on her hooves, but she summoned her courage and brought herself closer. Brushing her horn against Chrysalis's head, she began to weave a spell, preparing to enter her beloved's dream state.

As Luna's magic enveloped them both, the room around them blurred and faded, replaced by a warm, ethereal glow. In an instant, she found herself swept into a vast field bathed in moonlight, where stars sparkled like diamonds scattered across an endless tapestry of velvet sky.

“Luna!” Chrysalis exclaimed, a broad smile lighting her features, a spark of her old self shining through the murk of forgotten memories.

“I always come,” Luna said softly, though her heart felt heavy. She looked upon her wife’s face, vibrant and full of life, yet the joy that blossomed within her soon gave way to a somber expression. This radiant image of Chrysalis was only a fleeting illusion, a mere reflection of the love they once shared. Deep down, Luna knew this was just her beloved’s sleeping state—an ephemeral fragment of the past.

As she stepped closer, Luna’s gaze fell upon Chrysalis’s body, which appeared faded and almost transparent. The harsh truth of time weighed upon her, a stark reminder of the little time that remained. Luna’s heart ached with the knowledge that Chrysalis only had two more days—two more days of life before she would slip away into darkness.

Memories came rushing back, unbidden: all the others she had lost over the years—Shining, Starlight, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity—their families scattered like fallen leaves on the wind. And then there was Snowdrop, the cherished friend from three thousand years ago, whose memory lingered as a bittersweet ache in her heart.

Each passing had carved a deeper wound in Luna’s soul, driving her to visit those beloved souls in their dreams as they lay on their deathbeds. She had given them wonderful memories to take with them, ensuring they wouldn’t pass away alone. But now, the thought that she would have to do this for Chrysalis felt like a dagger to her heart.

In that moment, the overwhelming weight of affection and grief coiled around her heart, and she could no longer hold back. Luna closed the distance between them, wrapping her forelegs around Chrysalis in a tender embrace. The warmth of her vibrant wife enveloped her, and Luna squeezed her eyes shut, wishing she could freeze this moment in time.

“I love you,” Luna whispered, her voice a fragile echo in the stillness. “I always will.”

As they stood together in that dreamlike realm, Luna clung to her, savoring the fleeting preciousness of their shared love, even as the shadows of reality loomed ever closer.

Chrysalis returned the hug, her forelegs wrapping around Luna’s neck as she leaned into the embrace. With her heart pounding, Luna held her wife tighter, wishing to capture this moment forever, even as the underlying sorrow gnawed at her.

A soft, ethereal glow surrounded them as Luna concentrated, tapping into one of their most cherished memories. Images fluttered to life around them—the wedding of Starlight and Trixie. They stood together in the vibrant garden, surrounded by shimmering lights and laughter, the air filled with the scent of blooming flowers. The sunlight painted everything in warm hues, creating a joyous atmosphere.

Luna watched as young Chrysalis, in a guise of a shimmering luminescent mare, stood proudly by her side. They exchanged glances, their eyes filled with mischief as they plotted to steal the spotlight from the wedding party. Laughter echoed in the air as they danced together, vibrant and carefree, their hearts intertwined in that single, perfect moment. It was a memory of love untainted, a beautiful reminder of the connection they had forged amidst chaos.

In that delicate space of dreams, Chrysalis smiled, her expression radiant and content. “I remember this day,” she said, her voice soft amidst the vibrant recollections. “The way you made me laugh when everypony else took everything so seriously...”

Luna’s heart ached at the sight of her beloved so genuine and alive, even if just in this illusion. “You were so radiant, so full of life,” she replied, her voice laced with bittersweet affection. “We were unstoppable together.”

As the memory flickered around them, the light began to shift, the happiness fading as reality sank in both their hearts. Chrysalis leaned back slightly, looking into Luna’s eyes, and a somber expression filled her face. “Luna,” she said slowly, “there’s a part of me that’s sorry you have to do this for me. Time is cruel, and I know it’s not truly me you’re holding onto right now.”

The admission struck Luna like a physical blow, and she fought to keep her composure. Even in this dream state, knowing that a piece of Chrysalis was aware of the toll it took on her was like a knife twisting in her heart.

Chrysalis continued, her tone gentle yet firm, “But please, understand that I feel happy in these moments. Even if it hurts you, I can still feel your love. It lights up this darkness.”

Tears welled in Luna’s eyes as she cupped Chrysalis's face with her hooves, gazing into those kind, emerald eyes that still held echoes of the past. “You deserve so much more than this,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “You deserve all the time in the world.”

Chrysalis smiled, a serene expression mingled with sadness, and for a brief moment, it felt like the shadows receded. Luna held her wife close, wishing desperately to stop time in this beautiful memory, even as she knew it was just a flicker—a fleeting glimpse into the life they had built together. They were on borrowed time, but in that moment, wrapped in each other's warmth.

As the vibrant memory began to fade, Luna felt a familiar surge of sorrow swell within her. She knew the moment was ending, that the spell she had conjured—the beautiful dreamwalk they had shared—could only last so long. With a heavy heart, she reluctantly let the magic slip away, feeling the warmth of Chrysalis dissolve like mist in the morning sun.

Tears streamed down Luna’s cheeks as she released her hold, the beloved image of Chrysalis fading until she could see nothing but the lingering ghost of her wife’s smile. It felt like ripping her heart from her chest, leaving behind an emptiness she feared she wouldn’t be able to bear.

As the dream faded entirely and she found herself back in the cold reality of their dimly lit chamber, a sob caught in her throat. Luna stood there, breathless, grappling with the aching loss of those precious moments. She had wanted to stay, to curl up beside her beloved and bask in the warmth of their love, but she knew that she could only visit for a short hour—too long and she would risk overwhelming Chrysalis’s frail body, pushing her further away.

Turning away with a heavy heart, Luna stepped quietly from the room, the haunting silence enveloping her like an unwelcome cloak. The door creaked softly as she pushed it open, her heart aching with every step away from the one she cherished the most.

But before she could fully retreat, she paused, glancing over her shoulder at the still figure lying peacefully, the ethereal glow of her dreams barely clinging to her essence. The love Luna felt was tangible, a fierce bond that transcended even the boundaries set by time and fate.

Taking a deep breath, she whispered, more to herself than to the fading visage, “I love you.” The words hung in the air, a fragile promise entwined with the echoes of their shared laughter and tender moments—words that could never truly articulate the depth of her feelings.

With one last, lingering look, Luna turned away, letting her heart carry her toward the uncertainty of the future without her beloved. Each step felt like a chasm opening beneath her, but she knew she had to keep moving; her beloved would need her strength and love in the days to come. And so she walked away, the weight of every loss pressing down upon her, each memory a bittersweet reminder of what was, and what she would soon have to let go.

Author's Note

Just two more chapter left, I really hope you guys are ready for the ultimate feels department and tears to flow, I have been having a lot of fun rewrite this entire story. You can join my discord also here

Today I sensed magic

Twilight looked up at the sky, watching heavy rain cascade down in relentless sheets. She had personally requested the weather ponies to gather thunderclouds above, knowing how desperately the land below needed the water. As the ruler of Equestria, she often bore the weight of countless responsibilities, yet today was meant to be different. Today was a day reserved for an important visit with her dear friend Chrysalis.

In the earlier days of their friendship, Twilight had cherished the moments spent with Chrysalis. They had shared laughter, adventures, and deep conversations. But over the past hundred years, so much had changed. The once vibrant and spirited queen had begun to decline, and now, with each passing year, that decline felt more profound.

Twilight’s heart ached at the thought. Three years had gone by since Chrysalis had last recognized her or the other princesses during their visits. Each time, it was like watching a light flicker and fade.

Twilight began walking down the familiar corridors of the castle, her thoughts swirling as she admired the intricate textures of the walls and the glimmer of magic that seemed to weave itself through every surface. She softly murmured to herself about the monumental effort it had taken to gather the princesses together to help move this part of Chrysalis's kingdom to Friendship City. Once known as Ponyville, the area had transformed dramatically over the past millennium, evolving into a vibrant metropolis that was hardly recognizable from what it had once been.

As she strolled, memories came flooding back: the day when Chrysalis and Thorax had put aside their differences to unite the changelings with the broader populace of Equestria. It had been a momentous occasion, one that had ushered in a new era of understanding and cooperation. Twilight felt a bittersweet pang in her heart as she reminisced. How far they had come, and how much had changed since then.

Taking a deep breath, she finally reached the door to Chrysalis’s bed chamber. With a gentle push, she entered, her heart heavy yet hopeful. There lay Chrysalis, a shadow of her former self. The vibrant hues of her carapace, once a striking black, had faded to a soft gray that seemed to absorb the light around her. Twilight’s heart sank at the sight; it was a reminder of how fragile life could be, even for a queen who had once exuded such strength and power.

Twilight closed her eyes for a moment, inhaling deeply to steady herself. She remembered all the shared laughter, the late-night strategizing, the moments of vulnerability that had forged their friendship. *I can do this,* she reassured herself. *This is just like every other visit.*

Opening her eyes, she approached the bedside, her steps quiet and careful. She wanted to be a source of comfort, a reminder of the bond they had once held so dear. Leaning slightly closer, Twilight spoke softly, "Chrysalis, it’s me, Twilight. I’m here."

As she sat down in a chair beside the bed, the sound of the rain pattering against the window filled the room, creating a rhythmic backdrop to the moment. Twilight reached out, allowing her hoof to rest gently on Chrysalis's, hoping to bridge the gap of recognition that had grown between them. She remained there, a faithful companion in the midst of change, determined to share whatever light remained in her friend’s world, no matter how dim.

"Do you remember the time we all celebrated the Festival of Friendship together?" Twilight asked, her voice barely above a whisper. She hoped that maybe, just maybe, a flicker of memory would stir within Chrysalis, lighting up the shadows that had settled over her heart.

Chrysalis turned her head slightly, her movement almost imperceptible, yet it was enough for Twilight to see a flicker of life in her eyes. "Ah, the princess of Equestria," she rasped, her voice delicate yet imbued with a surprising strength. "I’m very glad you came to visit me. I suppose I am quite the sight to see, aren’t I?"

Twilight’s heart raced, her eyes widening in shock and hope. This was the clearest Chrysalis had been in years, and while a spark of joy ignited within her, it was quickly mingled with a cold realization. The knowledge Twilight had gathered about dementia loomed in the back of her mind, reminding her that moments of clarity often heralded the closing chapters of a life. She swallowed hard, striving to keep her tone light and casual. Sliding her hoof into Chrysalis’s, she offered a reassuring smile. "I’ll let the princesses know you’re awake and feeling a bit more like yourself!"

But Chrysalis's expression shifted, and a different kind of urgency replaced the faint smile. "No... no," she insisted weakly, her voice trembling. "I want to see the outside with my own eyes. Even if it’s pouring down rain, I want to experience it just once more. Please, grant me this."

Twilight's heart sank at the request. She knew what it meant. Her head hung low as she absorbed the weight of Chrysalis's plea. It was clear that this wasn’t just a passing whim; it was a longing to connect with the world one last time. After a moment of hesitation, determination surged within her. *I can do this,* she thought resolutely.

Carefully, she conjured a spell signal for Luna—one that would alert her to the urgency of the situation. Time felt fleeting, and Twilight knew that every second counted. She fought back tears as she focused the magic, a shining light dancing at the tip of her horn. Luna had visited just two days prior, and with every scheduled visit heeded, Twilight knew the connection they all shared was vital.

Once the signal was sent, she turned back to Chrysalis, her spirit trying to radiate warmth amidst the ominous feelings closing in. "Alright, my friend. Let’s get you outside. Just hold on to me, okay? I’ll help you."

With a gentle nod, Chrysalis's eyes glimmered with appreciation. Twilight carefully helped her shift to a sitting position, supporting her as they made their way toward the balcony where the rain fell freely, an orchestra of droplets creating a soothing melody. The door swung open, revealing the tempestuous sky, and Twilight guided Chrysalis to the edge, where the cool mist greeted them both.

As the rain poured down, washing over everything, Twilight sensed a powerful connection forming in that fleeting moment. She could feel the weight of the world around them—the memories, the history, the bond they had nurtured—and for a heartbeat, it felt as if no time had passed at all.

"Look," Twilight said, her voice barely rising above the sound of the rain, "it’s all there, Chrysalis. The world you helped shape—it's beautiful."

Chrysalis leaned slightly forward, her eyes reflecting the glimmering raindrops. Twilight hoped against hope that this exchange of life and light might bring a measure of peace to her friend in their final moments together.

A soft smile crept onto Chrysalis's face as she took in the view.

Chrysalis’s gaze drifted over the rain-soaked landscape, her frail body leaning toward the gentle droplets that cascaded from the sky. She closed her eyes for a moment, savoring the sensation of the cool mist brushing against her former war-hardened exterior. The world was alive with color and sound—trees swayed in a rhythm that felt both familiar and foreign to her, and the scent of wet earth filled the air with nostalgia.

“Oh, Twilight,” she murmured softly, her voice a thread of breath. “It’s… so lovely. Look at everything… I can almost feel it.” For the first time in years, she seemed lost in wonder, as if rediscovering the beauty of the world around her. Memories flashed through her mind—children laughing, changelings flitting about under the moonlight, friends gathered in joy and unity. That vibrant image brought a delicate smile to her lips.

But as the moments passed, she felt an overwhelming fatigue wash over her. Her eyes grew heavier, and a slight tremor washed through her limbs. “I’m… so tired, Twilight,” she whispered, the words escaping like a sigh through the mist.

Twilight felt her heart seize in that moment. A wave of sorrow crashed over her, leaving her momentarily frozen. She turned slowly to face Chrysalis fully, fighting against the moisture gathering in her eyes. How unfair that the beauty of this moment would be shadowed by the inevitable reality that was unfolding.

“Chrysalis…” she uttered, her voice trembling as she clutched the changeling queen’s hoof tighter, wanting to provide an anchor, a reminder that she wasn’t alone. “It’s okay. You can rest. I’m right here.”

But her reassurances felt meaningless as she watched Chrysalis’s eyes flutter closed, the life force within her waning like a candle flickering in the dark. The queen’s body began to go limp in Twilight’s grasp, the warmth fading from her grasp. Twilight’s breath caught in her throat, and the world around her suddenly contracted into a singular focus—the delicate curve of Chrysalis’s face, once fierce and commanding, now softened by fatigue.

“Chrysalis?” she whispered, desperation creeping into her voice. But there was no response. The rain continued to fall, drenching them both in a veil of sorrow, a fitting accompaniment for a farewell so profound.

With a final, gentle sigh, Chrysalis was gone. Twilight's heart shattered into countless pieces, each one echoing the loss that enveloped her. She felt the weight of her grief crash down, filling her with a sense of profound emptiness.

Tears spilled down her cheeks, mingling with the raindrops as she lingered at the edge of the balcony, her heart aching for a friend who had fought so hard to embrace the light. In the somber rain-soaked silence, Twilight whispered, “Goodbye, Chrysalis. Thank you for everything.”

And as the storm continued to rage, Twilight closed her eyes, trying to hold on to the beauty of the memories they'd shared, hoping they would provide some solace against the unbearable sorrow of loss.

Today I spent the last time with my beloved

The stars twinkled softly in the realm of dreams, their gentle light casting a serene glow over the ethereal landscape. Luna moved cautiously through the soft haze, her heart heavy with the emotions that weighed upon her. Today marked not just another routine of dreamwalking; it was a solemn farewell, one she had dreaded yet knew was inevitable.

As she stepped into the familiar glen, a place of profound memories they had often shared, the air filled with the scent of wildflowers and the faint whispers of the night. Here, time seemed to pause, allowing them the chance to linger, to savor every moment before Chrysalis’s final journey.

Chrysalis sat in the center of the glen, perched upon a moss-covered stone, her ethereal form a brilliant mix of colors that reflected the starry sky above. She seemed almost to glow, a soft light radiating from her as though she was a part of the cosmos. When their eyes met, a jolt of recognition shot through Luna, igniting the ember of love despite the unyielding reality before them.

“Luna,” Chrysalis breathed, her voice a soft melody that wrapped around them like a warm embrace. “I was afraid you wouldn’t come.”

“I will always come for you,” Luna replied, her heart aching with both the joy of seeing Chrysalis and the sorrow of impending loss. She approached and settled beside her, the velvety softness of the moss beneath her hooves a stark contrast to the weight in her chest. “You know that.”

Chrysalis looked down, her features momentarily shadowed. “This place… it feels like a memory I can’t hold onto. It’s beautiful, yet so fleeting.”

“It is beautiful because we are here together,” Luna responded gently, nudging her with her shoulder. “We have shared so much in this glen—our secrets, dreams, laughter… pain. It is a sacred space for us.”

At that, Chrysalis allowed a soft smile to break through her melancholy, and Luna felt her heart lift slightly. “There were so many nights spent under the stars, hoping to grasp eternity,” she mused, her voice carrying the weight of nostalgic longing. “If only time was kind to us.”

Feeling a rush of determination, Luna took Chrysalis’s forelegs gently and guided her to stand. “Let’s dance again, just for tonight,” she offered, her heart stirring with hope. “Even if only in spirit.”

Chrysalis’s eyes sparkled with a flicker of joy. “A dance among the stars sounds absolutely perfect,” she replied, a hint of excitement lifting the heaviness in her voice.

Luna wrapped her forelegs around Chrysalis, pulling her close. Together, they swayed to the soft rhythm of the cosmos, the stars above twinkling in time with their hearts. With each gentle movement, the glen transformed around them, the colors shifting to reflect their elation. Blossoms wafted into the air, glowing softly as they twirled, painting the landscape with hues of blue and green that danced alongside them.

They lost themselves in the moment, letting laughter rise like stardust. Luna felt like a filly again, untethered by the burdens of reality, simply imbued with the joy of being in this enchanting space with Chrysalis. Her beloved was vibrant, radiating warmth, and with every laugh, with each delicate step, the darkness of their impending farewell faded into the background.

Their dance was slower now, punctuated by shared giggles and soft whispers. “Do you remember the night we tried to teach the stars our dance?” Chrysalis asked, a teasing lilt to her voice.

Luna chuckled, nodding fervently. “We were determined to outshine them, weren’t we? I think they were quite impressed.”

“They were!” Chrysalis replied, her laughter echoing through the glen. “Or perhaps they were simply mocking us with their twinkling light.”

The two broke into another fit of giggles, the sound intoxicating them both, filling the air with a sweet harmony. As Luna looked into Chrysalis’s eyes, the weight of reality felt distant, almost muted. Each shared memory they invoked spun a thread of connection between them, weaving their past into the fabric of their present.

Every moment felt like a declaration of love—a reminder that despite everything, they had created something beautiful and everlasting. They danced and danced, until the boundaries of the glen seemed to dissolve, leaving only the two of them swaying in the warm glow of their love.

But in the back of her mind, Luna could sense time’s relentless march. Chrysalis’s vitality, though radiant, flickered like a candle under a waning moon. With each twirl, Luna felt the pang of reality creeping back in, but she pushed it aside, unwilling to let sadness mar their final dance.

“Close your eyes,” Luna whispered, and Chrysalis obliged, the corners of her mouth curling into a gentle smile.

Luna continued to guide her beloved, moving them gracefully, letting the rhythm of their hearts lead the way. “When you dance, you release your soul,” Luna murmured. “Let it soar, my love. Let it tell the story of us.”

And so they danced under the blanket of stars, feeling the weight of the universe around them, every breath a testament to their undying bond. Time stretched, an infinite loop that let them savor each turn of their hooves, the comfort of their whispers, and the warmth of their shared moments.

“Forever,” Luna breathed, the word spilling from her lips. “No matter where you go, I will hold onto you in my heart.”

Chrysalis opened her eyes, luminous and filled with love. “And I will carry you with me. In the shadows and the light. Always.”

The glen shimmered with the magic of their connection, a beacon of hope against the melancholy tide of their short time left together. With each movement, they crafted new memories that would be woven into the fabric of Luna’s heart, a testament of their love, eternal and unyielding.

And so they danced, lost in each other, painting the night with the echoes of their laughter and the warmth of their love, holding onto the fleeting moments as they embraced the magic that existed in their shared dream—a beautiful farewell that would resonate through time as their hearts beat in perfect synchrony, now and forever.

They continued to dance, the glen around them shifted seamlessly, each gentle pirouette unveiling a tapestry of memories. The wildflowers transformed into blossoms of vibrant colors, symbolizing the special moments they had shared. Radiant hues enveloped them, illuminating the soft darkness that threatened to encroach upon their happiness.

“Look,” Luna said, gesturing with a hoof as the scenery morphed into the vision of their first picnic beneath the central oak tree they had claimed as their own. “Do you remember this day?”

The gentle breeze carried the scent of fresh fruit and wild grass as a tableau formed around them. They could see themselves laughing and playfully feeding each other strawberries, the sun streaming down as laughter filled the air.

“It was your idea to pack so much!” Chrysalis giggled, her voice like a soothing wind through the glen. “I thought we’d never finish all that food!”

“And yet we found a way, didn’t we?” Luna replied with a smile as she twirled, the scene fading to reveal another cherished moment together.

In an instant, they were surrounded by the twinkling lights of a festival, a place where music flowed and lanterns danced in the night. Luna recalled how they spun in circles, their hearts racing with exhilaration, momentarily forgetting the burdens of the world outside the glen.

“Do you remember how you insisted on entering that silly contest?” Chrysalis asked, laughter bubbling up between them. “The one where we had to guess the flavors of the ice cream?”

“And I thought they were all pineapple!” Luna replied with a chuckle, warmth flooding her heart with each precious memory. “I still can’t believe they were all different flavors. I had no idea!”

They continued to dance through the memories, the world shifting with each step, displaying the precious moments they had created together. Yet, amid the joy, Luna sensed a subtle change. With every memory they invoked, Chrysalis flickered more and more, her physical form fading into delicate transparency.

“Chrysalis… you’re so beautiful,” Luna said softly, her voice laced with urgency. “I wish I could freeze this moment forever.”

Chrysalis smiled, but there was a distant look in her eyes. “It is beautiful because we remember it, Luna. We created these memories, and they will never truly fade, no matter what happens.”

Their surroundings shifted again, and suddenly they were back beneath the glow of the stars, matched with the shimmering reflections of moonlight on a tranquil lake. Luna felt the cool water lap gently at their hooves, and she drew Chrysalis close, realizing it was a moment they both held dear.

“This was our first kiss,” Luna murmured, eyes glassy with the weight of the moment. The lake reflected their silhouettes, looking ethereal in its soft glow.

“The night felt so alive,” Chrysalis reminisced, her voice trembling slightly. “I thought the stars were watching us, waiting for our secret to unfold.”

Luna took a step closer, their foreheads almost touching. “I remember the way you looked at me, how you made me feel like the only thing that mattered in the universe.”

As their eyes locked, time seemed to still, the world fading around them, leaving only the two of them in their serene space. Luna leaned in, their breaths mingling, the warmth radiating between them, filling the void of despair threatening to intrude.

“Chrysalis,” she whispered, “I love you, now and always.”

In that perfect moment, Luna pressed her lips to Chrysalis’s, feeling the connection of every shared experience culminating into this one soft kiss—a gentle promise sealed with the essence of their love.

But as she kissed her, Luna felt Chrysalis become even more translucent, her form shimmering like a mirage. A whisper of pain echoed through their bond, and with every heartbeat, she sensed Chrysalis slipping away more and more, a precious part of her fading.

“I will always love you,” Chrysalis breathed, her voice a mere breath in the air, tinged with bittersweet finality.

As their kiss lingered, the glen around them began to dissolve, the scenery crumbling into pieces and dissolving into a vast emptiness. The remnants of their memories faded into darkness, leaving Luna utterly alone.

Luna fell to her haunchees amid the shattering void, sobs breaking from her lips as the profound absence of her beloved pierced her heart. “Chrysalis!” she cried out, desperation spilling from her soul. She grasped at the air, fingertips curling around nothing, trying to hold onto the fading warmth that had once enveloped her.

The void stretched around her, an unending darkness echoing her cries, carrying away the light that had once filled her heart. No more laughter, no more warmth; all that remained was a stark desolation.

The darkness enveloped her, Luna's heart sank deeper into despair. In her last moment of clarity, she understood with dreadful certainty: Chrysalis was gone, her love now condensed into an echo that would resonate in the emptiness surrounding her. Luna was left alone, haunted by memories—beautiful yet infinitely painful.