Chrysalis never knew what it was like to love and be loved, until now
Chrysalis was broken and defeated. Had she not come across a loving mother and child, she would be dead. But she need to feed, and thus an idea struck her.
(This is a tie in with both Resistance: Equestria and Chaotica.)
Slivers of light filtered through the thick forest canopy. A tall, lone figure wandered aimlessly in the woods. Her black carapace was coated in muck and grime. She was covered in bruises from her ‘not so graceful’ fall. She would be surely disgusted by what she saw, if she had in fact a manner in which to see herself. Queen Chrysalis dragged her hooves along the ground, panting softly. She’d been wandering this forsaken forest for days on end. Her insectoid wings were uselessly hanging at her side, since she had no energy to lift them up and fly. Her energy reserves were depleted, which she found utmost illogical. ‘I had power that rivaled Celestia’s own and even defeated her. Yet, here I am, wandering about a forest, close to death.’
Upon thinking about death, a realization hit her and hit her hard. None of the raiding swarm she had led into Equestria would not have survived that blast, thanks to both its strength and ferocity. Scattered to the winds, the remaining changelings had no chance to make it back to the hive. For it took them a few weeks to arrive in Equestria. Chrysalis had led them to their deaths. Imagery of their lifeless corpses popped into her head. She felt sick to her stomach. She swore vengeance upon the newly-wed couple for slaughtering so many of her children.
She growled, baring her teeth. ‘Why? Why did it come to this? I’m the Queen of the Changelings. I should have seen this coming. I should have prepared, but Armor’s love was just so…so intoxicating. I couldn’t stop.’ She wanted to beat herself for such stupidity. To take her own life, like she had done to her children by leading them astray on this fool’s errand. How could she fall for the one failing of her race: Love Addiction? She had it bad and now, look where it got her. Only young Changelings fell for that, not her. Not the original. She’d lived for thousands of years, seen things no creature had ever seen, and she fell for the oldest thing in the book.
Love! The strongest force in all the world. Yet, also the most cliché. ‘Oh, I can hear the others laughing at me now.’ She started thinking about the other lords and kings, supposedly, on her side. Their jeers filled her ears. They would never let her forget her utter failure. Her fellow rulers would use this as an opportunity to encroach on her lands and seize her resources. The Changelings would be hard pressed to find anything to feed upon and starvation would take its toll. Of course, that didn’t matter. She doubted she would ever see them again and her race was doomed to extinction. The Changeling race was hated and despised by everyone and everything. Foreign nations would gleefully hunt down and destroy what they thought of as a parasite race. ‘Have they no heart?’
She stopped in her tracks and just stared at the ground. Her mind went blank and not a stray thought passed within her skull. Her legs gave out on her and she fell to the ground with a loud ‘thud’. The changeling mare could feel her energy fade into nothing. She closed her eyes and whimpered, something she hadn’t done in such a long time.
“This day was supposed to be perfect. The kind of day I had dreamed of since that fateful day. My revenge would taste so sweet, But good fortune I did not meet, Instead, I’ve been cast so far away.”
Tears fell down her cheek. She allowed this display of weakness because she knew that there was no way out of this. She was going to die. Alone and empty inside.‘Father, my children, I’m so sorry. I failed you.’ She closed her eyes, letting darkness take her…. ______________________________________________________________ And then she felt something wet swab itself across her brow. The first thought that came to her mind was some predator was tasting her. She scowled.‘As if I would allow such a thing.’ She thought. As long as she took breath, she would see to it that no living creature could feast upon her flesh. The Changeling Queen prepared a spell that would crush the creature’s skull in, than opened her eyes.
What she saw surprised her. Instead of the savage face of a Manticore, or the long snout of a Timber Wolf, she saw a unicorn mare smiling at her sweetly. She was light green, with a messy, short mane. A little wet towel was hanging in the air, held by her magic. She looked around her surroundings. She was in some dirty brown tent, hardly befitting someone of her stature.
“Oh, you’re awake.” The brown unicorn pulled the towel away from her. Her long brown mane was held in a cowgirl like fashion. ‘I never understood cow fashion styles.’ “I was getting worried that you’d never wake up.”
Chrysalis glared at her. ‘What is this pony up to?’ She thought, mistrusting this seemingly nice pony already. She had just attacked the capital of their stupid little nation a few days ago, and now, she was being taken care of by one of those insipid creatures. She found it odd. “I don’t need your sympathy.”
“Well, if it wasn't for my sympathy, you’d be dead.” The unicorn smirked. “And probably in the belly of some random creature of the forest. I thought you Changelings knew better than to go wander off by yourselves.” She shook her head.
Chrysalis snarled. “How dare you make such a remark? Do you know who you are addressing?”
“I’m guessing some monarch or higher cast.” The unicorn mare said, studying her. Chrysalis could see a spark of curiosity in her eyes. “Since you look far different than the ones I’ve encountered. Am I far off?”
“You impudent mortal,” Queen Chrysalis held back the urge to harm her. “I am Queen Chrysalis, mother of the Changeling race, commanding general of the entirety of our army, and of course the most captivating creature this planet has ever seen.” She gloated. In retrospect, she knew that telling this mare who she was a bad idea. But she was a pony. They were peaceful by nature.‘Strange how times have tamed them.’
“I knew I didn’t miss my mark.” She bowed her head. “Well then Queen Chrysalis, my name is Rove.”
Chrysalis bowed hers as well. “Well, than miss Rove.” She gulped, knowing what she had to do. ‘Curse you father.’ She thought. “I th-th-”
“Thank you.” Rove said slowly, for her to catch on.
“I can say them just fine, without your help.” The Queen shot at her. She cleared her throat. “Thank…you.” ‘You just thanked one of your mortal enemies. How can you live with yourself?’
“Now, was that so hard?” The mare giggled when she glared at her.
Before she could scold the unicorn’s attitude, a little filly came barging into the tent. She was an bright pink, light blue maned, Earth pony. A giant smile plastered her face. “Mommy, look. I found a pretty flower.” She held up what appeared to be a beautiful blue flower. Chrysalis and Rove’s eyes widened when they saw it.‘Poison Joke. How stupid is that foal?’
“Sugar Rush, where did you find that?” Rove questioned, lifting the flower away from her daughter with her magic.
“There was a whole field full of them, mommy.” Sugar Rush’s smile faded when she saw the look of concern on her mother’s face. “I thought you’d like one.”
Rove smiled. “I do love it, darling, but this is a bad flower. Ponies shouldn’t touch it.”
Sugar Rush’s ears went down and she lowered her head. “Does that mean I’m a bad pony?”
“No, Sugar.” Rove chuckled. “But you do need a bath.”
“But I don’t want too.” Sugar whined. Chrysalis’s ears fell to her sides, as she tried to block out the child.
“You will, if you know what’s good for you.” Rove gave her daughter a hard look, to which Sugar cringed.
“I’ll go take a bath now.”
Rove smiled. “Good,” She stroked a hoof through the filly’s mane. “And if you be a good girl, and don’t splash mommy, I’ll let you pick out a treat in the next town we come across.”
Sugar Rush smiled. “Really? Anything I want?” When her mother nodded, she started jumping up and down in joy, yelling ‘yes’ repeatedly. She finally stopped when she noticed Chrysalis, who was covering her ears with pillow. “Mommy, who’s she?”
“Sugar, meet Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings.” Rove said.
Chrysalis couldn't help but feel some pride return to her when the mare called her by her title. ‘Maybe not my entire title, but it’s a start.’
“A Queen?” Sugar Rush pointed to her. “Does that mean she’s a big meany?”
Chrysalis glared at the filly. How dare she? “Sugar Rush!” Rove scolded her. “That’s rude.”
“But those stories…” Sugar started.
“Are just stories.” Rove finished for her. “Just because the Queens in those fables were evil, does not mean that real Queens are. Now apologize.”
Sugar Rush slowly trotted over to her. “I’m sorry, miss Queen.”
Chrysalis put her snout in the air. “Apology accepted little one,” She leaned her head down to the filly. “But make sure that it does not happen again. For your sake.”
Sugar Rush’s eyes grew wide with fear, before she rushed out of the tent. Rove glared at her, as she took off after her filly. Chrysalis chuckled, pleased with herself. She reveled in the fear she saw in the young one’s eyes. It always pleased her to sense that emotion. As she thought of emotions, she couldn’t help but think about the connection she sensed between the two. A feeling she also reveled in: Love. But this was no ordinary love. No, it was the strongest variety out there. The love between a mother and child.
With something like that, she’d be up to full strength in no time. Or, at least have enough to get back to her swarm. ‘But how to get it?’ She pondered.
The Queen of the changelings basked in a sunny patch of treeless forest. A sunhat sat upon her head, doing its job in keeping the sun out of her face. Not mention making her look fabulous. 'Don't I always. To which she internally answered yes. She held a glass of lemonade in her hoof and took a sip. The lemonade was freshly squeezed and done well enough, but with her heightened taste buds the drink held the slight taste of Rove. 'Simply horrible.'
Chrysalis groaned as she watched Rove play with her daughter, for like, the umpteenth time. That’s all that confounded mare and filly did all day. Play catch, tea parties; ‘I never understood what fillies see in pretending to drink and eat. It serves no purpose. This is why ponies are far inferior to us.’, and all that other sappy stuff. She felt like gagging, but this love was so powerful that over the last few days she’d gathered enough energy to walk on her own hooves.‘Well, that’s a start.’ But she knew that she needed a direct source of food. Feeding on their scraps wouldn't do her for long. She needed to get them to love her. And fast. She knew that the remaining changelings would have little to no chance of surviving without her leadership.‘But how?’
Currently, they were playing keep away with a ball. 'More like ‘daughter runs around stupidly while her mother does a half-flanked job of catching her.’ Soon enough, Sugar Rush had accidentally kicked the ball over to her. The little Earth pony rushed over and grabbed it, but stopped immediately upon seeing her. She was right in front of her. Chrysalis could see the terror in her eyes. She smiled sweetly, to which the filly started to smile as well. Until, the changeling queen bared her fangs, hissed, and lunged.
The filly ran away screaming, leaving the queen laughing hysterically. “Oh, that was rich.” She licked her lips. “And most satisfying.” Yes, she knew that her little act was terrible, but it helped vent a little of her frustration.
Sugar Rush ran past her mother and into the wagon that held all their belongings. Rove glared at Chrysalis and stomped on over to her. “I bet you’re really proud of yourself. Scaring a little filly like that.”
“Of course I am.” Chrysalis smiled. “Fear is the second most delicious emotion.”
“Well sorry, but I think you need to go on a diet.” Rove said.
“Were you trying to be funny?”
“I was trying to get through that thick skull of yours.” Rove yelled. “For the last few days, all you’ve done is complain and scare the living Tartarus out of my little filly. Don’t you have the least bit of compassion?”
“I haven’t felt compassion in over nine hundred years.” Chrysalis took another sip from her drink.
“I’m sorry for your troubled past, but that gives you no right to terrorize my daughter.”
“Fine.” Chrysalis harrumphed, turning to look elsewhere. “Then I’ll have to find something else to occupy my valuable time.”
Rove scoffed. “Valuable time, my flank.” She muttered. “Well then, you wouldn’t mind helping me collect a few things from the forest, now would you?” Chrysalis looked at her, as if she was mad.‘Me? Do manual labor? Surely she jests.’ “I mean, you said it yourself. You need something to occupy, your ‘oh so valuable time’.” She spat.
Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at the mare. ‘She will pay for actions. I swear it. And it won’t be pretty. Oh no, it’ll be brutal. So brutal, that the brutality will be renowned through the brutal underground that was founded on brutality…Oh my stars, I can’t even monologue to myself right. After this, I need a vacation.’ “Fine.”
“Who knows, maybe you’ll find a cute, innocent bunny to snack on.” Rove said, going over to the cart, which her little daughter hid. “I know how you Changelings prefer fresh meat.”
Chrysalis gave her a quizzical look. This mare knew quite a bit about Changelings, more so than she liked. She preferred it when the ponies were ignorant of her race and their customs. They seemed to fear the unknown and that’s was she strived for. ‘This mare…could be problematic, but at least she has a good head on those shoulders.’
Rove called. “Sugar, sweetie. Come out. Chrysalis isn’t going to eat you.”
“Really?” The filly called out from within.
“Yes, really.” Rove answered. “She’s just frustrated is all. She is far away from home remember.” The filly nodded. “Beside, Changelings don’t eat ponies. They eat love.”
“Love?” Sugar quirked her head to the side. “How do they eat that?”
“Because they feed off the emotions of others so they can survive.” Rove looked back at the Queen, sending a small glare her way. “Though, they tend to snack on other things.”
“Are you still on about those strawberry tarts?” Queen Chrysalis scoffed. “I was doing you a favor. Ancestors above know that you need to loose weight. You look like a bloated pig with that form.”
Rove looked as though she was about to explode in a volcano made of pure fury. Instead of making a comeback, which the Queen was prepared to match, she turned to her daughter. “Now, could you be a dear and grab my saddlebags. One for me and Chrysalis here.”
“Okay mommy.”
“Now see here.” Chrysalis rose to her hooves. “I will not be used as a pack mule.”
“Oh hush.” Rove started on her. “I’ve had it up to here with you.” She raised her hoof to her forehead. “Now, if you want to be fed and taken care of you’ll have to earn your share. I know that maybe foreign to the likes of you, but not to us ponies it isn’t.”
Chrysalis wanted to argue, but she let it die in her throat. She needed them if she was going to survive. The Changling race had to continue, since her subjects couldn’t go on with their lives without her there to guide them. She hated to acknowledge it, but she highly doubted that any of her attack force could have survived the blast. She was the queen, who had been more powerful than Celestia, and she’d barely survived a few days. Of course, she didn’t let any of her sadness and grief show. She wasn’t going to allow these ponies to see her weakness.
The filly finally came out, interrupting the intense ‘stare down’, that was going on. She carried the bags in her mouth, spitting it out in front of her mother. “I got them, mommy.”
Rove broke eye contact with the Changeling Queen and nuzzled her daughter. “Thank you, sweetie.” She grabbed one of the saddlebags with a hoof and stood on her back legs. She pulled the saddlebag around her back and clipped it in the front. When she was finished, which took a couple of minutes, she smiled and ruffled her daughter’s mane, before falling back to all fours. Chrysalis was impressed. Not many ponies could maneuver so well and for so long on their hind legs. “Now be a good girl and stay in the wagon.” She gave the little Earth pony a hug.
“I’ll be careful.”
“Promise?”
“Promise.”
Rove smiled warmly and kissed her on the head. She pulled away and wiped a few strands of hair out of her daughter’s face. “My, my. I think somepony forgot to brush this morning.”
Sugar Rush pouted. “I was tired, mommy.”
“Ah, ah.” Rove waved a hoof, dismissingly. “A lady keeps herself in order. And that means you have to brush your hair every morning.”
“Do I have to?” Sugar said. “My mane seems fine.”
“Oh, but what about those dolls you keep brushing all day long.” Rove said. “Do they deserve more attention than you?”
“No.” Sugar’s ears splayed back. She looked up at her. “Will you brush it for me, mommy?”
“Of course I will.” Rove said, running a hoof through her little filly’s mane, before it rested on her cheek. She gave her one last kiss to the forehead, before turning to Chrysalis. “Let’s go.” She said, quite sternly.
“After you.” Chrysalis shot back. _________________________________________________________ The two walked on in silence. Neither of them wanted to talk to each other, which Chrysalis found a bit odd. Rove seemed like a nice, talkative mare.‘Maybe it’s because I’ve been scaring the daylights out of her precious little filly.’ She mused. But she was happy for this silent moment. She preferred the quiet tranquility over the ruckus of the crowds. Except those of her own kind, but never could any of them hold a conversation. ‘Drones are drones after all.’
“So,” Chrysalis started, wanting to kill the silence. ‘That’s not the only thing I want to kill right now.’ “Why didn't you use your magic to put on the saddlebag? It would have saved you time and effort.”
“Well, that’s easy to answer.” Rove said. “As you’ve noticed, Sugar Rush is an Earth pony, so she doesn’t have any magic. It was quite shocking, since me and my husband were both unicorns and to our knowledge both out lineages were pure, but we loved her all the same. We decided to try and do everything with our own two hooves, to show her that she can do whatever she puts her mind to. That she isn’t inferior to unicorns. She’s special, in her own way.”
Chrysalis scoffed. “That’s by far the most ridiculous explanation I have ever heard. If you have gifts, use them. Don’t throw them away for the sake of some midget.”
Rove glared at her. “Do not call her names.” Her horn lit up, looking like she was ready to prepare a spell.
“Alright, I won’t.” Chrysalis held up a hoof, defensively. She couldn’t fight the unicorn in her current state.
“Good.” Rove said.
A thought occurred to the queen and she knew she had to ask. “Where did you learn about my race?” She asked aloud. This single thought was nagging at her. They were too far out for this mare to have learned about their existence and Chrysalis had done her best to keep herself and her children out from the evil eyes of her family.
“I once encountered a changeling scout in my youth.” A look of nostalgia traced itself onto her face. A slight smile graced her lips. “He was lost in the woods, hurt and alone. I didn’t know what he was at the time and to be honest I was scared of him when I first met him, but I had to help him.”
“Why?” Chrysalis asked. She wasn’t expecting this of her.
“Because I’m a pony.” Rove said, as though it explained everything. “Anyways, I nursed him back to health and we parted ways.”
“And that’s it?”
“Yes.” The unicorn mare nodded.
Chrysalis could sense she was hiding something. She could feel Rove’s emotion emanating from her. ‘Let’s see. Pride, embarrassment, longing, a tiny bit of arousal…’ “Rove, you naughty mare.” The changeling couldn’t help but giggle.
Rove blushed when she heard it. She used the magic that she had been building up to take out a scroll and hand it over to her. “Now, be of some use and get the items on this list.”
Chrysalis reluctantly grabbed the parchment with a hoof. She still didn’t have the energy to conjure up a simple levitation spell. ‘How long is it going to take, before I free myself of these ponies?’ She grumbled inwardly, before making her way through the trees.
Several hours of pain and dirty work later, Chrysalis went looking for Rove. She had a fierce scowl on her face. ‘I’m going to give her a piece of my mind.’ It didn’t take her long to find the horrid mare that had forced her to work in such conditions. She was plucking a few mushrooms that were growing beneath a tree, humming while she did it.
Before she could walk over and ruin the peaceful moment, she noticed a pair of eyes watching the oblivious pony. She recognized the cat like eyes. They belonged to none other than a manticore. Horrid beasts they were. Renowned for their strength and vicious attitudes.
With her heightened vision, she could make out that it was indeed a manticore, albeit a young one. Most likely it would be scared off if she walked out of her concealment. Though, she didn’t want to chance it. Manticores, even young ones, carried a poisonous sting. She’d be dead in minutes, especially in her current state. But if she did nothing, the manticore would surely seize Rove.
The Queen had to make a decision and fast. A pony’s life depended on it. All of a sudden, an idea struck her. ‘It’s so simple, yet it solves everything.’ She knew what she had to do and she was going to do it now.
Chrysalis took a step back…. ___________________________________________________________ Sugar Rush sat inside the wagon, playing with a couple of toys. One was a toy of Princess Celestia and the other was a National Guard. “Oh, thank you for saving me, Mr. Guard.” She moved Celestia’s doll, trying to say it in a Princessy manner.
“There’s no need, milady.” She said, in her best guy voice. “I’m the hero.”
She made them kiss, avoiding to look at it. ‘Cause kissing is icky.’ But then, she was interrupted when she saw her mother rush out of the forest. She smiled brightly. “MOMMY!” She yelled rushing out of the cart.
“Sweetie.” Her mother yelled, happily. She looked rugged and beat up. She opened her arms out wide and welcomed her daughter’s embrace. “I’m so happy to see you.”
“I’m happy to see you too, mommy.” Sugar Rush said, nuzzling her mother’s side. “Where’s that big mean lady?”
“She’s…she’s not coming back, Sugar.” Her mother said. “But that doesn’t matter. What matters is that I have you all to myself.” She hummed, soothing her little filly. “Tell me that you love me.”
“I love you, mommy.”
“And how much do you love me?”
“A whole lot.” Sugar giggled.
“Good.” What the little filly couldn’t see, was that her mother had a wicked smile upon her face. She opened her eye to reveal a green, slitted iris. “That’s what I wanted to hear.”
Chrysalis felt great. Better than she had in days, or in centuries. The love that was emanating from the foal was so intense and yet, so pure. The link between them was so strong that she could feel pulse after pulse of energy flow into her with each passing second.‘Why didn’t I think of this sooner?’ She’d hated that infernal mare the moment she saw her. Originally, she was hoping to wait till she got to her hive to finish her off, but that manticore did her messy work for her. Killing for pleasure wasn’t her style, per say, but it got the job done. Now, she had an unwavering food source, for a child’s love was unquestionably strong and rarely wavered. She just had to keep up a simple act.
Of course, even with this new energy, it would take her several days to get back home. Which wasn’t a worry, since she had all the food and energy she needed to make the return trip. But even so, she knew that if she didn’t get back soon, the hive would die off without her leadership. Drones lacked much in tact and leadership qualities.
The forest was thick and she had no idea where exactly she was, but that didn’t faze her. She knew how to find it. She just felt her changeling’s. It was a little trick her father had taught her. The queen had set up a mental link between her race, so that they could share memories, talk over distances, and so forth. It was what made the invasion of Canterlot so easy. She could talk with any of her followers anywhere and anytime. But, it wasn’t working properly at the moment, which frustrated her immensely. It also frightened her, but she refused to admit it.‘As long as I can feel them, I’m fine.’
She was in a hurry because of this. Still, the cart that was attached to her kept her movements slow.‘What did that mare put in there?’ She grumbled inwardly. The changeling could sense that there was a spell cast onto the cart to reduce its weight, but it still was quite heavy. The queen had never performed such labor before. Such tasks were suited for large drones, known as 'Titans'. ‘Perhaps I should have brought a few of them to Canterlot as well.’ She now and again thought of making the brat pull it along, but she knew that she was too small to do so.
“Mommy!” The little filly yelled.
Chrysalis groaned. “Yes sweetie.”
“Are you going to brush my hair now?”
“No, sweetie.” Chrysalis spat out. “So, stop asking.” For the last hour, the Earth pony she had to take of had kept pestering her about combing her hair.‘Like she can’t do it on her own.’
“But you promised.” Sugar Rush said, poking her head out a window. “You promised to brush it after you got back.”
‘But she didn’t come back, she’ll never come back, so shut up and brush it yourself.’ She thought the words, but bit her tongue. She had to keep her love intact if she was going to make it. “Sweetie, why don’t you just stop asking mommy. She’s tired.”
Sugar frowned. “Okay mommy.” She ducked her head back in.
Chrysalis sighed. That bought her some time to be alone with her thoughts. ‘I could just put a mute spell on her, but she might hate me for it. I can’t have that now can I.’ Again, she had to find out where exactly she fell and how far the hive was. Yes, Changelings had an innate sense of direction, but she wanted to make sure. ‘Hopefully there are some locals up ahead.’ Which again, made her think of Sugar. The foal would last another 2-3 weeks at the rate she was draining her. It didn’t sadden her, but she was already addicted to the feel of the young one’s love. After she could garner enough strength, she'd would need to cut back and let the little pony garner enough strength so she could feed again. Still, in the end the filly would die, one way or another. ‘Ponies have to die eventually.’ She shrugged. ____________________________________________________________ Sugar Rush held up a brown brush in her hooves. She went over to a mirror, but she wasn’t high enough to see it, so, she dragged a stool over and jumped onto it. She then tried to brush herself. The brush fell out of her hooves and hit the floor. She frowned. Holding anything in her hooves was hard. ‘Mommy makes it look easy.’ ‘Course, she figured, her mommy was amazing. So, she could do anything she wanted to do, even without her magic. ‘And I’m going to be just like her when I grow up.’ So, she stooped and picked up the brush and ran it through her mane.
Shortly afterwards, a loud roar resounded in the area. ‘MONSTER!’ Sugar Rush immediately ran into a small cupboard and curled up into a ball. She shook in fear, but tried to think positive. S he knew that the monster wouldn’t find her here. Her mommy had told her so. Even if it did, then her mommy would fight off the monster. ‘Because mommy wouldn’t let anything happen to me. She said so.’ Her mommy had told her that her love would ward off any big meanies away. Sugar believed her. Why shouldn’t she? Her mommy never lied to her. She was the best mommy ever. ________________________________________________________ Chrysalis could hear the manticore’s triumphant roar. She could practically feel its satisfaction about its recent kill. The changeling queen couldn’t help but smile. A few memories of her own kills ran through her mind.
And with it, came the delicious aroma of blood and carnage. As a changeling, she needed love to survive, but the changeling race still carried the carnivorous tendencies of her father. She licked her sharp teeth. Yes, she didn’t need meat, but she still craved it now and again. It helped assuage her true hunger for a while.
Again, she reminded herself that she had a disguise to keep. Though, with this ignorant brat, she could get away with a lot of things. ‘The innocence of a child is a wonderful thing.’ But even that held limits. She needed to watch what she did around the foal. With several thousand years of experience, she knew she had this all wrapped up nicely.
As she was too wrapped up in her own thoughts, she failed to notice several pairs of eyes watching her.
The forest grew darker as the sun set. ‘If I didn’t know better, I’d say Celestia’s setting a little early today.’ Chrysalis thought, but knew it didn’t matter. She had to rest. So, she stopped herself in her tracks and fell right to the ground. Her chest was heaving in and out, as she gasped for breath. Her energy resources were getting low from the wagon she had to drag around. ‘Oh, what I wouldn’t give for a single Titan right now.’ She thought. Still, she knew that likely wasn’t going to happen. She’d have to pull this heavy wagon all over the forest. ‘Well, next time I impersonate somepony, it’s certainly not going to be a handypony, or something stupid like that.’ Of course, she’d never think of doing something so idiotic.
“Mommy,” Sugar Rush poked her head out of the cart before gasping. She quickly ran out and rushed to her side. “Are you okay, mommy?”
“No, sweetie.” Chrysalis answered her between breaths. “Mommy’s tired.
Sugar Rush cocked her head to the side. “You don’t usually get tired. You could pull our cart all day, if you wanted.”
‘That’s because your mother was built like an oxen.’ She scoffed inwardly. Still, it unnerved her a bit. She’d already slipped up. She couldn’t let the filly figure it out, especially with her so far away from the hive. “I just don’t have it in me to do that today.”
“Okay.” Sugar said, buying it.
Chrysalis rolled her eyes and unhooked herself with a spell. She stood up on her wobbly legs and walked over to the carriage door. She wanted to set up the tent, so Sugar could rest in it. ‘Father knows, I won’t sleep anywhere near her.’
Once she opened it, she was tackled to the ground by Sugar. “Surprise hug!” She shouted, before laughing.
Chrysalis scowled. “Okay, that’s enough.” She told the little filly. “Now get off of me.”
Sugar Rush quickly did so, but had a sad expression on her face. “But you always liked my surprise hugs.”
“Well, not anymore.” Chrysalis walked into the wagon. “I would make me happy if you don’t do that again.”
Sugar sniffled. “I’m sorry, mommy.”
“It’s okay, sweetie.” Chrysalis looked around the for the tent supplies. “Just don’t bother mommy right now.” She searched for another few minutes before stomping her hoof in defeat. ‘I know she has a tent in here somewhere. That mare had me sleep in it for two whole days, for father’s sake.’ That’s when she remembered a ‘find it’ spell. She’d learned it when she had taken on the guise of an inspector in Canterlot.‘Boy, was that an eventful two weeks.’
The changeling queen closed her eyes and pictured the tent in her mind. Her horn glowed as the spell was activated. Luckily for her, her magic reserves were up to snuff, thanks to the little fillies love. She could see a trail leading her on. She took a few steps, cautiously. Since the cart wasn’t that big, she had to be careful. Then, the trail stopped. She opened her eyes to see a large red bag. She raised an eyebrow.‘Didn’t I already check inside that very bag before?’ She asked herself, but the spell told her that it was in there and she was never wrong.
Chrysalis opened the bag, only to find it empty. She sighed. ‘I knew I checked it already.’ “Where is that tent?” As the words escaped her lips, tent supplies came rushing out of the bag. The changeling was taken aback by this and backed up, knocking into a few things.
When she got her bearing, she scolded herself for being so jumpy. ‘It’s just an enchanted bag. Nothing to get scared by.’ Though, she was impressed that the mare she was impersonating had an actual ‘Bottomless Bag’. Those were rare and hard to come by. ‘Maybe Rove was smarter than she let on.’ She chuckled.‘She still wasn’t smart enough to figure out she was being stalked. And here I thought she was an adventurer. More like thief and charlatan. I’m sure she stole this bag from somepony else.’ ____________________________________ _____________________________ Sugar Rush watched as her mother came out of their cart, carrying some things with her magic. She found it odd, since her mother usually carried things the Earth pony way, but she reasoned that she was trying something new. ‘Unicorns do have magic powers. Maybe mommy wanted to try them out. I know I would.’
Her mother than spent over an hour trying to set up the tent. Sugar still found it odd that she could do it a few days ago, but not now, but she couldn’t help but laugh at how silly it all was. That was when her beloved mother glared at her.
“Stop laughing at me, you little brat.” She seethed. Sugar stopped laughing and stared at her in shock. Her mother’s glare was intense and unkind. It was almost like she was somepony else. For a second, she even thought she saw a flash of green in her eyes. For never before had her mother looked at her like that and talked with such loathing. Yes, she would scold her, but she had always had a kind tone and gentle eyes. Now, her mother looked at her like she was vermin.
Sugar started to sniffle. ‘Why’d mommy get angry? Did I do something wrong? I didn’t mean to? I’m sorry. I’m so, so, sorry.’ A few tears started to flow down her cheeks.
Just then, she felt somepony pull her into a hug. “Shhh, don’t cry. It’s alright. Mommy’s just a little angry, is all.” She cooed. Immediately, her crying ceased. She smiled and hugged her mother back. This was the mommy she remembered. _________________________________________________________________ Chrysalis couldn’t stand to hear that infernal hatchling laugh. At her expense no less. She snapped at her, making the filly cry. Initially, she’d felt good about it, but then she felt it. The connection between them wavered and a new emotion flooded her senses. The filly’s sadness made her sick to her stomach. She felt woozy and had a slight headache coming on. She wanted it to end.
So, burying her little tantrum, the changeling rushed over to the young one and hugged her. She cooed and reassured her that everything was going to be alright. The queen hated doing this. She never in her life thought she’d be helping a pony in such a manner. Sugar Rush bought it and the changeling queen could sense the connection strengthen again. The wonderful feeling of happiness returned, and so was the nauseous feeling fled. She reminded herself that she needed to keep her happy at all costs. This little pony was her ticket back to the hive.
“Stay happy, my little one. I don’t want you to shed another tear.” She whispered into the filly’s ear.
The edge of the tent glowed green as it flipped to the side. Chrysalis stepped in through the now open doorway. Little bags hung underneath her eyes. Her joints felt sore and it was tough for her even to move forward at a slow pace. She let out an exasperated sigh.'Ugh, that little brat can be so tiring.' All the manual labor left the changeling queen exhausted for the first time in years. That and nearly all day, every day since feeling the child's sickening sadness, she had been doing her best to make her happy. This entailed many fruitless endeavors called ‘games’. She knew for sure that no changeling child would act such. The queen made sure of that.
How she hated pony culture, with the exception of the ancient pegasi.'Now they knew how to live.' A small smile crept upon her face, before it was swept away in a blaze of fury.'NO! I WILL NOT REMEMBER THEN! I WILL NOT REMEMBER THEM! AND I WILL NOT REMEMBER HIM!'
To distract herself of those incessant thoughts of old, she reevaluated her options. Yes, she needed the filly to survive, but was it worth it? The answer came back to her, like always. ‘Yes. Yes it is worth it. My children cannot survive without me.’ And she should know. After all, she created her race. Her will had guided her children since they first took breath. Thus, her changelings had no sense what so ever when it came to self-government. 'In hindsight, maybe I should have allowed more individuality. It surely would have helped and we most definitely wouldn't be on the brink of extinction. Hopefully, my children can learn a thing or two about how to self govern while I'm gone.' That idea was stored away for later. Now, she just wanted to rest.
The queen of the changelings finally collapsed upon the small mattress inside the tent. She let out a contented sigh. The little mattress was indeed worthy of her majestic presence, with its soft and comforting embrace.
She felt the sweet tendrils of sleep take hold. She put up no resistance and just like that, was fast asleep. ______________________________________________________________________________ "Mommy! Mommy! Mommy!" A familiar voice shouted.
Chrysalis could feel the little filly jumping on the mattress. She groaned. "What do you want? Mommy's trying to sleep." She pulled the blanket over her head.
"But it's Sunday." The filly whined.
"So," Chrysalis growled. "If you want to go worship that blasted sun or it's caretaker than find by me. Just do it someplace else."
"But mommy, you always read me a story on Sunday before I go to sleep."
Chrysalis's head sprung up. This was another one of her slip-ups and she berated herself for it. 'Well, at least I know I'd fail as an actress.' She rolled her eyes at the thought.'As if I'd ever degrade myself by performing a play for the ponies...come to think of it, why don't we have a plays?' That was chalked up as another note, on her to do list. “Well, not tonight.”
“But I wanted to hear a story.”
Chrysalis growled. She hated this entirely. To be made the servant of some little earth pony was degrading. But alas, love is love. “Fine.”
“YAY!” The filly cheered and sped out of the tent.
Chrysalis took her head out from under the sheets. She gave a quick glance around herself. Since it was still evening, there was enough light to make out a few things. With her changeling eyesight, this wasn’t a problem. Her kind could see even in the blackest of nights. Of course, she still activated a spell which caused her horn to emit a glowing light. The sun was nearly out of the sky.
The filly returned shortly, walking backwards into the tent. She was dragging a large book (compared to her size) in her mouth. She brought it up to her and spat it out. She smiled triumphantly. Chrysalis couldn’t help but giggle at Sugar’s antics. ‘She’s so cute….for an earth pony.’
The tiny filly opened the book to a certain page. Sugar pointed to it. "This one. I want to hear this one."
Chrysalis looked down at the page, before pulling back. She hissed in anger, baring her teeth. On the page, was a picture of Celestia and Luna. “Child. How dare you bring this filth to my attention. I will not degrade myself by praising them in such a manner.”
“But…”
“I mean seriously, these vile traitorous witches should be condemned for their actions, not admired.”
“But…”
“Are you blind to the ways of the world, child? Anyone with eyes can see this as clear as day.” Chrysalis spat at her. The queen paused in her rambles when she saw the little earth pony’s face. She was crying.
“I’m not blind, mommy. I just didn’t know.” She sniffed. Her ears were splayed back and her face was tilted down.
Chrysalis was silent. The filly’s emotion filled her, making her guilty of her actions.‘Guilty? How can I feel guilty? I’m in the right. But she’s crying. I didn’t mean too….STOP FEELING SYMPATHY!” She shook her head, trying to distill these thoughts. She wouldn’t feel for a pony; not after everything. Yet…Chrysalis reached out and pulled the filly into a big hug. “Don’t cry, sweetie. Everything’s fine.” She stroked the filly’s back. “Please don’t cry. I don’t like it when you cry. It makes me feel bad.”
The filly stopped sniffling. “I don’t want to make you feel bad, mommy.”
“Good.” The queen kissed the top of her head. She turned her attention back to the book. ‘I can’t believe I’m about to do this.’ “Now, how about a story.”
The filly immediately brightened up. “Really?” Chrysalis nodded. The filly hugged her tight. “YAY!
Chrysalis grabbed the book in her hoof and brought it closer to herself. “Let’s see. Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria….” The Changeling Queen had to fight the urge to gag.‘Celestia, you sure do know how to draw ponies in.’ She thought, with a roll of her eyes. She looked down at Sugar Rush, who was nestled against her. She couldn’t help but smile.‘Maybe I should spice this up a bit. Make it a bit more realistic.’ “There lived two immortals, known simple as Alicorns, who ruled over the ponies. The eldest, Princess Celestia, raised the sun each and every day. She also has a very poor memory” She snarled. “But we’ll get to that later. The next is Princess Luna” An angry squint and a deadly snarl appeared on her face at the mention of that name. “Or Riika, as I like to call her. She raises the moon, yadda, yadda.”
“Why do you call her Riika?”
Chrysalis nuzzled her. “I’ll tell you when you get older.” Sugar pouted. “Now, for a long while, the sisters lived in Harmony. But the younger’s sister’s heart was impure. She was a being born of darkness, so it was only natural that violent thoughts would arise. Her sister did not see this, even though it was plain as day. I mean, how could she not see it. She’s a riika! A giant, murderous riika who cares not for anyone other than herself....Sorry. Trailed off for a second. As I said, her sister ignored the signs. She didn’t want to see the truth, for her heart was already weary of events of old.”
“What kind of events?”
“Events of old, of course.”
“And they are?”
“Old.”
“Old?”
“Old.”
“Can’t you just tell me now, mommy.”
“I’ll tell you when you’re older.” She couldn’t help but chuckle when she saw the look of frustration on the young one’s face. “Where was I? Oh yes. Jealousy had taken a place in her heart. The fateful day came when Princess Lu…Riika refused to lower her moon. Her older sister demanded that she obey, but the moon goddess answered in kind: She shed her disguise and become her true self; Nightmare Moon. Her elder sister watched as the moon goddess scoured the land, killing at whim all those who did not cherish her night. Many horrors played out during those horrid two years…..” _________________________________________________________________________________ “The evacuation is going swimmingly, my queen.” One of the scout drones reported.
Chrysalis nodded. She looked over the large mass of changelings that were moving on to a new home. They had to leave. She knew this. The reason lay up in the sky.‘The moon.’ She had always feared the night and for a very good reason; it’s guardian. Usually, none of her children, nor her, would go on such an endeavor during the night. They would wait for the safety of daylight. But that’s just it. The sun hadn’t been seen for over two weeks. Reports from her scout drones had informed her of the reason. ‘Luna.’ She snarled. Oh how she hated that alicorn. Of course, this news of her betrayal did not shock her. She knew that the moon goddess would one day turn on her kind hearted sister. What she feared was the safety of her children.
“Good.”
“Yes, very good.” A demonic voice hissed out from behind her. The queen’s eyes went wide and she glanced to the scout drone. He was shaking so much, she feared he’d slip out of his exoskeleton. Mustering her courage she turned around to look the goddess in the eye. Walking out from a shadowy portal, a black alicorn walked. Chrysalis could see the changes that had taken place upon Luna’s form. She was much taller and her coat was the color of the blackest night. Her eyes were slitted, similar to her own. It was her wicked smile made her blood run cold. It was far larger than normal, with part of her cheeks bare of skin, showing muscle. Her teeth were more predatory, taking the liking of a dragon’s or her own.“I especially love the large security forces surrounding the nymphs. Nice touch.”
The Changeling Queen’s voice was lost to her, as her mouth lay agape. Her fear radiating off her like the heat from the sun. “Lu…Lu…”
“It’s Nightmare Moon to you, Trawsian scum.” The demonic goddess snarled. “Or should I call your insipid race Changelings.”
Finding the strength to speak, Chrysalis answered. “Changelings.”
“A fitting title.”Nightmare Moon nodded. “I can see why you would seek to change. Your appearance it ghastly.”
Chrysalis let out a growl. “I would say that term suits you more. Especially in your current state. Though, I think it suits you. You’ve finally let your true colors shine.”
“Yes I have, haven’t I.” Nightmare Moon chuckled.“But I haven’t come to gloat. I just wanted to reminisce of times long gone and you just happened to catch my notice.” The moon goddess paced around the two changelings, like a predator sizing up their meal. “A relic of the ‘Great War’.”
Chrysalis’s eyes narrowed. “As long as I still draw breath, the war still rages between our two races.”
Glee shown from Nightmare’s eyes. “I see.”Her horn glowed and a bolt of dark magic shot forth. It hit the scout drone dead on and he disappeared in a burst of shadows, leaving only a cry of pain behind. Chrysalis could feel her child’s death scream deep within in her, igniting a spark of rage. “Then let today mark the end of our bloody conflict.’
Chrysalis shot a green bolt of magic at the Alicorn, but she teleported. Nightmare appeared behind her and let loose another shadow bolt. The magic projectile hit the queen, sending her reeling to the ground. Chrysalis tried to get up, but a shadowy tendril wrapped itself around her midsection and lifted her up and then brought her back down. Again and again, the tendril repeated this action. The black alicorn laughed. “I haven’t had this much fun in ages.” Of course her fun was then cut short, when the changeling queen let loose an explosion of green magic. It dispersed the shadow tendril and sent Nightmare flying backwards. She quickly used her wings to stop her tumble.
Chrysalis stood there. Her cuts and bruises healing before the alicorns very eyes. She spat out some of her blood. “Is that the best you can do?”
Nightmare’s shock rapidly turned to anger. “Oh you haven’t seen anything, Trawsian scum.”The two immortals sped towards each other, horns lowered. Their horns glowed as they charged up their magic. Right as they came within a hairs length of each other, their opposing magics came into contact. A visible dome of magic formed around this impact, before an explosion lit up the night.
For hours the changeling race watched with both awe and terror, as the two power houses fought with tooth and hoof. They traded blow after blow.
Chrysalis’s sides heaved in and out.‘I can’t last much longer. She’s too powerful.’
“What? Getting worn out already.” Nightmare Moon called out. “I would have expected Xenos’s daughter to put up a better fight than this.” She laughed. “What am I saying? He was a wimp.”
The Changeling Queen screeched in anger. She flew forward, catching the alicorn by surprise. The two immortals, after colliding, tumbled through the air. Nightmare, all the while, tried to get away from the changeling. But Chrysalis would have none of that. She clung on, using her hooves to beat the moon goddess. Then, she opened her mouth wide, which wasn’t hard since changelings can unhinge their jaws like a snake, and bit into the Nightmare’s neck where it met the shoulder. Nightmare Moon screamed in pain, before she was finally able to push Chrysalis off of her. A good thing too, since they were just able to avoid hitting the ground.
Chrysalis could see that, instead of blood, purple ooze seeped out of Nightmare’s wounds. “THAT’S IT!” Nightmare screamed. “I’ve had it with you, Trawsian scum.” Her horn glowed brightly.“JUST DIE!” Chrysalis braced herself for the next attack. But instead of a magic bolt, a giant wave, similar to Nightmare’s shape swept towards her. The next thing she knew, her world went black.
Instantly, she could hear screaming. At first, she couldn’t tell what it was, but then it became clear.‘My children!’
“Yes, that is their death cries.” A familiar voice said. It reverberated seemingly everywhere at once.
‘Stop this. Stop this at once.’
“No. I think not. For you see Chrysalis. I know your fears. It’s my job after all.”
‘I fear nothing.’
“Oh, but you do. You fear being alone, cut off from everyone. Yet, you also fear for your children. An admiral trait, even for Trawsian scum such as yourself.”
If Chrysalis could scowl, she would be doing it right now. ‘Release me.’
Nightmare’s laugh could be heard. “Do you honestly think I would release you? You are in my domain and in my domain you will stay. For all eternity.” Nightmare’s laugh become louder and louder, as Chrysalis slunk into herself. The screams of her children as her only company. __________________________________________________________________________- “Mommy!” Sugar Rush yelled into her ear.
Chrysalis shook her head, clearing out the bad memory. “Do not scream into my ear, Sugar.” She rubbed it. “It hurts mommy.”
“But you were quiet for a long time mommy.” Sugar Rush said.
“Mommy was just thinking.” Chrysalis looked down at the storybook. “Eventually, Nightmare Moon amassed an army and attacked Canterlot.” Sugar Rush gasped. “Yeah, I know. Audacious. Anyways, Celestia, using the Elements of Harmony…”
“What are the ‘Elements of Harmony’?” Sugar Rush asked.
“The Elements are six character traits which, when combined, form Equestria’s greatest defense.” ‘Besides love explosions…Somehow, that expression doesn’t sit right with me.’ “They are; Honesty, Loyalty, Laughter, Generosity, Kindness, and most importantly, Magic.”
“Wow.” The little filly looked up at her in amazement.
“Yes, wow.” She returned her attention to the book. “Celestia, using the Elements of Harmony, banished her sister to the moon for a thousand years. And then soon after forgot she had a sister, since she has the habit of FORGETTING HER OWN FAMILY!” She seethed, but quickly reeled in her anger. “So, for that time, Celestia ruled alone.” Chrysalis snorted. “Served her right. A sweet taste of justice.”
“But didn’t she miss her sister?”
“She didn’t miss me.”
“What?”
“Nothing.” Chrysalis quickly said, realizing her mistake. ‘By Faust almighty, I’ve been slipping up way too much.’ “Off to bed with you.”
“But I’m not tired.” Sugar Rush said, before yawning.
Chrysalis giggled. “Somepony’s an awful liar.”
“I’m not a *yawn* liar.” The filly’s eyelids drooped. Chrysalis nuzzled the filly, trying to push her back on her hooves, but the earth pony wouldn’t budge. “Mommy, can I sleep with you?”
The changeling queen huffed. “Fine, but just for tonight.” When she felt the filly’s happiness, she couldn’t help but smile. She looked down at Sugar who was nestled up against her side. She kissed the top of her head. “Sleep well.” She turned off her light spell and fell asleep. _____________________________________________________________________________________ And then the light vanished. The darkness of the forest swept in, unimpeded. Unusual for this time at night, there was naught a sound to be heard. No crickets chirping, no owls and other late night birds. Just silence.
Yet in that silence, a presence roamed. Several of them in fact. The only give away of their presence was faint, red eyes. Pawing the ground and circling the tent. Prey lay inside, but their master wouldn’t let them feed on them. No. They were just sent to observe. And observe they would. ________________________________________________________________________________ Authors Note: Sorry for the delay in posting. Life issues and other such nonsense.
Originally, I planned on making this more of a comedic chapter, focusing more on a parody of the events, told by Chrysalis. Eventually, I decided to instead showcase a little event in history. I hoped you enjoyed it.
Something I should mention, the changeling language is draconian.
Her peaceful quest to get back to her kingdom, obtain her crown, save her children from extinction, and calmly gather her armies, strike into the heart of Equestria, AND SLAUGHTER THE WHOLE LOT OF THEM HAS BEEN HALTED BY A BUCKING RIVER! WHAT A LOAD OF HORSEAPPLES! I mean, she knew she’d have problems, but a river. A river is what gets her. BULLFEATHERS! This is unconceivable. No task could ever defeat her. She was far too cultured, powerful, and all around sexy to be beaten now.
The changeling queen unhooked the carriage and walked forwards until she came to the edge of the river. She examined the distance. In truth, it was quite wide but she could easily fly over. She then looked over her shoulder at the wagon. She couldn’t carry that, with or without magic. She was far too weak. Even with the child’s abundant food source, she had used a majority of it to pull the wagon and sustain her appetite. Her love in storage was unsurprisingly low.
She huffed. “Great. This is just great. I’ve been stopped by a river. It’ll be days before I build up enough magic for this. Probably even longer to find a way around.” She covered her face and whimpered. The images of her hive crumbling to the ground came to mind. And could you blame her. She’d never been without contact of her hive. EVER! Her children needed her support. They needed someone to guide them, to show them the way. ‘They’re probably chasing their own tails by now.’ She thought, pitifully.
She felt something nuzzling her side, but she didn’t take her hooves off her face. “It’ll be okay, mommy. A big, bad river can’t stop you. You’re the greatest unicorn ever.”
Chrysalis couldn’t help but smile.‘I am great, aren’t I.’ She removed her hooves and looked down at the small pony. “Yes child, I am the greatest, but this task is beyond me at the moment.”
“But can’t you just poof us to the other side?” Sugar Rush asked.
“It’s not that simple, my daughter.” Chrysalis explained. “Magic is a fickle thing, even for us born with an innate magic control. One cannot simply will something by just thinking of an action. You must channel your life energy into the thought to make the thought become reality.” The great queen sighed. “Sadly, I do not possess the needed life force for this task.”
“But you’ve got the greatest life force, mommy.” Sugar Rush stated.
Chrysalis chuckled. “That I do.”‘I’m starting to like this foal….I’m going to forget I thought that.’ “But mommy’s tired from pulling the wagon for several days without stop.” Boy, talk about endurance.
“Oh.” Sugar Rush looked at the ground and scoffed a hoof across the dirt. She then looked up at her. “Why don’t I pull the wagon?”
Chrysalis stared at the little filly for a moment, before a snicker escaped her lips. She quickly stopped herself. “You’re too small for that.”
“Then, why don’t I just use my own life force and move the wagon to the other side?” Sugar Rush, the little EARTH pony filly, stated.
Okay, now she didn’t stop herself. Chrysalis fell over laughing. She rolled about, clutching her sides. Her laughter went to a whole new level, when she pictured Sugar actually pulling off the feat. ‘This filly is hilarious. I swear, if she somehow makes it through this adventure, I’m keeping her as a comedian.’
“Apologies for interrupting, but who might you two be?” A strange voice asked. Chrysalis stopped laughing and looked upwards. Her vision encompassed a large purple serpent, which oddly sported orange hair and a moustache. Chrysalis and Sugar Rush stared up at the creature. “Are you two alright?” Silence was his answer. “Oh, I see. You’ve never seen a sea serpent this fabulous before.”
“SERPENT!” Chrysalis screamed and quickly grabbed the filly by the scruff of her neck, with her mouth, and ran inside, closing the door. The queen of the changelings had a reason for running. Serpents, like their dragon cousins, hated changelings. Her coastal hives were constantly harassed by serpents, and often they made a snack of her children.
“Mommy,” Sugar Rush asked, from within Chrysalis’s tight grip. “What was that?”
“A sea serpent.” She hissed. She held the earth pony filly closer at the mention of the monster. ‘She is mine, not some serpents.’ “They are slimy, vile, dangerous water dwelling creatures.”
Chrysalis stared at the filly. “Funny? There is nothing funny about them, my little filly. They would gladly gobble you up for a late night snack.”
“You-hoo.” The serpent called out to them. “Can you hear me?” Chrysalis didn’t answer him. “I’d like to say, I’m sorry for spooking you like that. It was wrong of me to sneak up on you. Could you come out so I can make this apology face to face?” Chrysalis rolled her eyes. ‘Oh please. As if I’m going to fall for that. He’s just going to eat me the moment I step out of this wagon….Come to think of it, why doesn’t he just crush this wagon? Is he just polite or is he planning on looting. ‘Course, what would a sea serpent do with a wagon?’
“Maybe we should listen to him, mommy.” Sugar Rush said, breaking the queen of the changelings out of her inner musings.
“Listen!” Chrysalis shrieked. “Did you not listen to me, you insolent brat. He is a sea serpent. A monster borne of the darkest womb.” The queen would have continued on and on about the vile creature, but she caught the fear and tears that lined Sugar’s eyes. She was sniffling. The sadness carried over to Chrysalis and she felt sick.
“I’m sorry, mommy.” Sugar Rush sniffled.
Chrysalis felt like someone was crushing her heart. The changeling queen was annoyed by this. That some little filly was having such an effect on her was degrading. She is an immortal queen. No living being could dictate her actions. But here she was, being made guilty by a pony. She never felt so low. “Don’t cry, Sugar.” She kissed her forehead and wiped away a few tears. “Mommy’s just scared is all.”
Sugar Rush sniffled. “I’m scared too mommy.”
“Don’t be.” Chrysalis nuzzled her. “Mommy’s here and she’s going to keep you safe.”
“Promise?”
“Promise.” The changeling queen smiled. The filly was already perking up. Her positive emotion was filling the queen up and alleviating her previous sickness. “Now, let’s go outside and see what that big, bad serpent wants.”
Sugar Rush nodded. The queen squeezed her closer, before putting her on her back. That way, she could make a swift run for it with her love source, if things went rather bad. And so the two slowly made their out of the wagon.
Upon looking at the serpent, Chrysalis bared her teeth in an aggressive manner. Normally, this was threatening, but since she was a pony, she lacked carnivorous teeth. ‘Well, let’s just hope he’s scared of herbivores.’ The serpent himself looked quite distraught. “Thank you for coming out. I don’t know what I’d do if you didn’t. The guilt would eat me alive.”
The serpent was taken aback by this. “Why ever would you find that funny?”
“You’re a sea serpent.” Chrysalis hissed. “You’re savage brutes that prey upon any creature that happens to cross your path or stream in your case.”
The serpent raised an eyebrow. “I think you’re mistaken. I’m a river serpent. Not one of those garish sea serpents.” The serpent laughed. “I can see why you reacted the way you did.”
“River serpent?” Chrysalis asked. She’d never heard of those…And she was thousands and thousands of years old.
“We’re the much kinder variety of serpent.” The serpent twiddled his moustache. “And we have such fabulous hair. Our sea cousins are rather jealous of us because of it.” He stroked his chin. “Why I remember this one time I took a trip to the beach. This overgrown brute of a serpent swam by and mocked my hair.” His brow furrowed. “What a brute. I mean, look at this hair. It is to die for.”
“It is pretty hair.” Sugar Rush spoke up.
“It is, isn’t it.” The serpent looked down at the small pony on Chrysalis’s back. “And who might you be?”
“I’m Sugar Rush,” She piped up. “And this is my mommy, Rove. She’s the bestest mommy ever.”
“Shhh.” Chrysalis looked back at her. “Don’t tell him anything.”
Sugar’s ear splayed back. “Sorry mommy.”
“Well, nice to meet you two.” The serpent placed a hand on his chest and struck a pose. “I, Am Steven Magnet. Local beautician serpent of the Everfree Forest.”
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Charmed, I’m sure.” Her voice dripping with sarcasm.
“I know you are.” Steven nodded. “I dare say, it’s been a while since I’ve seen any pony folk in the Everfree. Are you from Ponyville, by any chance? I have a few friends there.”
Chrysalis shook her head. Of course, in hindsight, she should have asked the real Rove questions on her past life. But the whole ‘let her die and take her place’ was so sporadic. She had no time for that.
Steven sighed. “Pity. I would certainly love to meet that fantastically magnificent diva, known as Rarity, again. Her taste was so cultured. Oh, how I wished this river would take me closer to that town of hers.”
“Yes, yes,” Chrysalis said, growing tired of this serpent’s ramblings. ‘I would have preferred him trying to eat me. At least I’d have some fun then.’ “That’s all good, but that doesn’t help us now does it?”
“Sorry.” Steven smiled sheepishly. “By the way, what do you need help with?”
“I need to find a river crossing.” Chrysalis told him.
“Oh, a bridge.” Steven smiled. “Yes, there’s one just up the river, this way.” He pointed to her right.
“Thank you.” She croaked out. The words were still foreign to her lips, but she said them anyways. She went over to the wagon and hooked herself back up.
“Wait.” Steven said abruptly.
“What?” Chrysalis asked, wanting to get as far away as possible from the fashion orientated serpent. ‘Wow. My life is strange.’
“Can I come with you?” He asked. “I don’t often have company here in the forest.”
Before Chrysalis could respond, Sugar Rush piped up. “Sure, Mr. Magnet. The more friends, the merrier.” The queen glared at the filly, but Sugar didn’t see it. For that, she was glad. She didn’t want her sad again.
Steven gave a cry of joy. “That is so kind of you, I just don’t know what to say.”
“There’s nothing that needs to be said.” Chrysalis said, pulling the wagon along with her. Her face contorted in agitated rage. Again, life pushed unexpected, and hated, events onto her shoulders. She just prayed to Faust herself, that nothing happened like this again. “Now let’s get moving.”
“Ooh-hoo!” Steven Magnet cried out in joy. “You are simply marvelous. Isn’t she just simply marvelous, miss Rove?”
Chrysalis grumbled several curses under breath as she turned around. The river serpent wouldn’t shut up. ‘Please Faust, if you can hear me. Smite him. Smite him hard and swiftly. Do it before I lose my sanity and perform the deed myself.’ The sight that they had implored her to see for the last several minutes was horrifying. The queen’s jaw went slack. For Sugar Rush, her little meal ticket, was standing in one hand of the serpent and her mane was done up in a similar fashion to the serpents.
“Aren’t I marvelous, mommy?” The filly said, trying to mimic the flamboyant serpent.
The queen was at a loss of words. Nothing she could think of could describe the amount of wrong that was shown before her. To illustrate this, she voiced her entire though process into one word. “NOOOOOOOOOOO!” Desperately pulling out the stops with her love reserve, she pooffed both the filly and a hairbrush in front of her. She then began brushing the filly’s mane back into her own straight, beautiful hairstyle. “My daughter is not going to be strutting around anywhere looking like that.”
The serpent harrumphed. “You obviously don’t know the first thing about fashion. She looked so marvelous in that style.”
Chrysalis growled. “I do not care. She’s my filly and she’ll do her mane the way I want it. Got it, you giant snake?”
Steven gasped in shock. “Snake?” He sniffled. “That is truly hurtful of you to say.”
“Mommy!” Sugar said. “He was just trying to make me look pretty. You don’t have to yell at him.”
Chrysalis sighed. Oh, how she did want to yell at him, but he was a being of this forest and knew his way around. “I know, sweetie. But you look pretty the way you are.” She nuzzled the filly, making her giggle. The queen wouldn’t admit this, even under threat of death, but Sugar’s laugh was music to her ears.
Steven Magnet brought his head down to them. “I am so sorry for trying to style her mane. It was wrong of me to do so without permission.”
Chrysalis nodded and then started walking. “Mommy? Aren’t you going to apologize for yelling?”
Chrysalis stopped in her tracks and groaned. Didn’t she already apologize once? Yes it was several days ago and to somepony who was now dead thanks to her, but still. “I am s-s-s-sor-r-y”
Steven smiled. “Apology accepted.” The flamboyant serpent swam on. “Come on. The bridge is not far from here.”
The queen of the changelings marched on. Secretly, she was hoping she didn’t have to apologize again. But she knew that was asking too much. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Thankfully, the little trek to the bridge was quiet.
“HA! TAKE THAT!”
Well, almost quiet.
For the last few minutes, they heard the tell-tale sound of somepony in a scuffle. The sound of Timberwolves were heard loud and clear. Now Chrysalis, being the kind and beneficent ruler that she is, took her time and hoped that the wolves would take the carcass elsewhere.‘Tis Practical. I don’t know how many more meet-ups I can stand.’
Finally, they walked up a little hill and saw the battle unfold. A rather large, black armored Earth Pony stallion faced off against an equally rather large timberwolf. Chrysalis gauged the wolf and came to the conclusion that it probably was an old male. It probably lost some fight for dominance in the pack and driven off. The knight…She pondered about him. His armor covered his whole body and was of an old design. Something she hadn’t seen in over a thousand years. Nowadays, stallions wore armor that protected their sides, flanks, and heads. In pre-Celestial times, they were more intricate and left no part of the body exposed. A very large broadsword was held in one hoof. ‘Honestly, I never understood why they let those without magic hold weapons. It’s so impractical.’
The black knight dodged a swipe from the timberwolf’s paw. The timberwolf lunged, but was deterred by a swing of the knight’s sword. The wolf gave him some space. The three spectators watched the two killers circled one another, waiting for the other to make a move.
The knight stumbled. The wolf saw its chance and pounced. The knight rolled and swung his sword. It collided with the timberwolf’s lower jaw, right under the right hinge. The blade cut through the wood. The wolf fell onto its side. Chrysalis smirked.‘Clever.’
The knight, now on his hooves, charged. The wolf got back to his own paws, just narrowly missing the first swing, but catching the second on his shoulder blade. The wolf howled, or at least attempted with a broken jaw and all, in pain. It didn’t last long, for the knight swung his blade downwards, lopping off the wooden wolf’s head. The knight, now victorious, placed himself at the start of the bridge. Which was rather impressive, looking like it could allow two massive Ursa Minors to walk side by side across the expansive river.
“Quite the show off, isn’t he?” Steven said down to them.
Chrysalis nodded, rather pleased by the display. If there is one thing changeling females loved, it was strong and clever males. The queen looked back at her ‘daughter’ and smiled warmly. The poor little thing was hunkered down behind her, hiding. A youngling’s natural response to danger. “Don’t be afraid, sweetie. He’s not going to hurt you.”
“But the timberwolf…”
“Was a meanie pants,” Chrysalis cut her off. “So he had to kill it, or else that big bad wolf would go and gobble up somepony else. Now, are you going to be brave and walk with mommy over to the knight and say hello?” The filly nodded. “That’s my girl.”
“BRAVO!” Chrysalis called out as they trotted over to him. “Splendid form.” The stallion didn’t even turn his head to looked at them when they stopped just a hair’s breath away. “Where did you learn to fight like that?”
The black knight remained silent. Chrysalis huffed in annoyance. “Did you not hear me ask you a question? Where did you learn to fight like that?” Again, no response. The queen growled. No one ignored her. NO ONE!
“Don’t take it to heart, deary.” Steven said. “He doesn’t take well to good natured conversations.” The river serpent lowered his head next to the night. “Hello, mister knight of this bridge, it’s good to see you again. Might I say that your armor is as splendid as ever.”
“Still thy tongue serpent,” The knight growled. “Or I shalt carve it out.”
Steven pulled back and huffed. “See what I mean.”
Chrysalis walked right up to him. “He just needs some motivation.” ‘And every stallion is motivated by the exact same thing.’ She batted her eyes. “Why, hello there. Fancy meeting you out in these parts.” The knight was still silent. She trailed a hoof around his chest. “A big strapping stallion such as yourself must feel rather lonely out here.”
The changeling queen walked along his side, brushing against him. The cold metal felt soothing to the touch. “I could help with that.” Her voice but a whisper as she came to his other side. “I can make your fantasies come to life.” She breathed into his ear. “Just let me and my daughter through. You can have your way with the snake. I care not for him. Just let us pass.”
“None shall pass.” The knight spoke up at last.
Chrysalis recoiled. “What?”
“None shall pass.” The knight tilted his head to look at her.
Chrysalis growled. She’d been rejected. NO ONE REJECTED HER! SHE WAS THE SEXIEST THING ALIVE! “How dare you? Do you know who I am?”
“Thy question is of little importance, wench.” The knight responded. “Dost thou knowest who I am?”
“I care not, now let me pass.” Chrysalis scowled, walking until she was in front of the armored stallion. ‘Ripping out his throat may be a challenge with all that armor, but I’ll do my best.’
“I think thine ears workest naught,” The knight said. “Or thy brain ist damaged beyond repair. For I made mine intention as clear as the sky above thine head.”
Thanks to the clear and sunny day, and the gap of trees from around the river, the sun fell upon the face of fury that Chrysalis now adorned. “Let me pass!” She demanded.
“I shalt tell thou once more and I shalt be specific.” The knight put a hoof to his throat and cleared it. He then pointed it at Chrysalis. “YOU! SHALL NOT! PASS!”
The force of the knight’s voice almost blew Chrysalis away. Once he was done, she rubbed her eyes and looked up. Her hair was all frazzled and pooffy. She growled. “Charming.” She sighed. “Look. I need to get by you. My home is on the other side and this bridge is the only way across.”
“Besides the serpent.”
Chrysalis nodded. “Beside the ser…” Her eyes went wide. She looked over to Steven.
“Uhhhh.” The serpent looked around nervously. “Nice weather we’re having.”
“YOU KNEW THIS?!!”
Steven cringed. “I am ever so sorry.” He whimpered. “It’s been so long that I’ve had company and this knight fellow forbade me to allow anyone to cross…”
“So, it comes back to you.” Chrysalis growled, feeling a tad increase in her already peaked anger levels. Which is impressive, since the queen was renowned for her anger levels. Well not so much renowned as her other…assets, but still.
“It does indeed, wench.” The knight responded.
Chrysalis’s right eye twitched.‘Okay, it is pony killing time.’ She lunged horn first at him. The black knight swiftly moved aside and used a foreleg to push her. The force behind the push sent her rolling across the ground. The queen rolled onto her hooves and faced her opponent. She lit her horn and prepared a disintegration spell. She charged once more.Say bye-bye to the living world, fool!’‘
The armored stallion stayed motionless. She thought him stupid, but all ponies were morons. Once she came within a two feet from him, her spell backlashed, sending her flying backwards. She landed with a loud ‘oomph’ onto the ground.
“Mommy!” Sugar Rush cried out. She rushed over to her ‘supposed mother’s’ side.
“Insolent wench.” The black knight said. “Mine armor is impervious to any and all such magical attacks. Thine efforts to best me have been fruitless.” The knight drew closer, with his blade in one hoof.
“Leave my mommy alone.” Sugar Rush said, getting in between him and Chrysalis.
“Step aside, whelp. Lest ye face the same fate as yonder wench.” The knight said.
“NO!” Steven cried out. “Don’t do this.”
“Stay to thy river dwelling, serpent.” The knight cast a glance to him, before to the filly. “I say again. Move aside.”
“No.” Sugar stood her ground. Chrysalis was impressed and actually heart warmed by the filly’s actions.‘Reminds me of…me….Okay, I’ve got to stop having these little heartwarming thoughts of her.’
“Very well.” The knight responded. “Since you will not move on yonder, then I shalt do away with thee.”
“Pretty please.” Sugar Rush pouted, tilting her to side, and stared up at him with her big cute eyes.
The black knight could not handle such an assault. His sword fell from his grasp and he clutched a hoof to his heart. “HNNNG!” And thus, the knight was defeated. “No more. Stop staring into my soul, you demonic being of cuteness. I cannot stand it.” Chrysalis smirked. ‘What a clever filly.’
“Then we can go over the bridge.”
The black knight nodded. “And through the woods to wherever you want to go.”
“YAY!” Sugar cried, hugging the black knight’s right foreleg. “Thank you, mister.”
“I am no mister,” The Black Knight told her. “I am the Black Knight. Slayer of countless foes and high commander of Nightmare Moon’s forces.”
“But wasn’t she defeated?” The filly asked.
“What?” The Black Knight said.
“Yep.” Chrysalis snickered. “Been that way for over a thousand years. Didn’t you get the message?”
The Black Knight was silent for a moment. “Then I have no purpose.”
{And no more reason to be speaking in archaic terms. Thank you god like writer abilities. :D}
“Yep.” Chrysalis brushed off some dust from her shoulder. “Sucks to be you.”
“Then I must go forth with you on your adventure.” The Black Knight said.
“What?” Chrysalis raised an eyebrow.
“Well, tis only natural that I accompany the only being who has ever bested me in battle.” He ruffled the filly’s mane.
The next day, the group still walked along the river. They had opted, due to the need for supplies, and the urging of Steven and Sugar, to stay close to the river. Both the serpent and the Black Knight had assured her that there was a nearby village.
“How else did you think I survived a thousand years in this damnable play?” The Black Knight stated.
“Well, foraging comes to mind.” Chrysalis pointed out.
The Black Knight scoffed and placed a hoof on its chest. “The Black Knight does not scrounge. Maybe a wench such as yourself does so to get by, but not I.”
“Why do you insist on calling me a wench?” Chrysalis swiped some of her gloriously ‘changed, mane back. “I am a lady and I wish to be addressed as such. So you can call me Miss, or Miss Rove, or preferably My Queen.”
“Queen?” The Black Knight stated. “Really. Thou surely jests.”
“I do not jest about such things.” Chrysalis scowled.
The Black Knight scoffed. “Thine breeding is not one befit of a noble’s daughter, let alone a queen.”
Chrysalis was about to make a retort, when she remembered that she indeed impersonating somepony else.‘I can see where he’s coming from. Rove certainly wasn’t a pony of rich blood.’ “Fine. Think whatever you like. You’ll see once we reach our destination.”
“I sincerely doubt it.” The Black Knight said.
Chrysalis turned back to her wagon and trotted forth. She smiled wickedly.‘Oh, I sincerely doubt that your doubt is justified…Why can’t I think to myself normally anymore?’ Right as she about to hitch herself in, the Black Knight pushed her aside. She tripped and fell on her side. “What was that for?” She sent him a glare.
“You may be a wench, but as you said yourself, you are still a lady.” The Black Knight hitched himself up to the wagon. The harness was stretched outward, as it encompassed his girth. Thankfully, his massive sword, while sheathed on his side, did not hamper his attempt.
Chrysalis was a little taken aback. He was helping her and she hadn’t had to use any of her changeling magic to make him do so. She had to give this stallion credit. He at least had some redeeming qualities. ‘Besides a rather strong build.’ She thought. The queen had a soft spot for strong stallions. “Why, you are a gentlestallion. Isn’t he a gentlestallion, sweetie?”
“Yes, mommy.”
Chrysalis turned her head to see Sugar Rush in Steven’s grasp. He was fixing up her hair to look like his. Again. She sent him a withering glare, to which he smiled sheepishly and went to combing Sugar’s mane back down. ______________________________________________________________________________ The river-side town they had come across was primitive. Well, Chrysalis liked to think so. The buildings were small and made of sticks and stones. They were haphazardly scattered about, with only cobblestone pathways to connect them. The queen wondered how life had dragged her to this pigsty. The ponies themselves were just filthy. They wore rags and full body garments similar to styles from before the unification of the pony tribes. The group had split up, ‘thank Faust’, so they could gather the supplies faster. Unfortunately, Sugar had to come along.
“Mommy, why have you been so quiet?” The little filly asked. “You’re never quiet in a new place. Don’t you want to talk to the new ponies around here?”
“No, sweetie.” Chrysalis told her. She wanted Sugar to just stop asking questions, or stop talking entirely. She could swear that a catastrophic migraine would ensue if she were to hang around these buffoons for much longer. “I don’t want to talk to these ruffians. I sincerely doubt anyone who smells like filth is worth talking too.”
“Oh,” Sugar said. “Okay.”
The two went on for a quite a while in silence.‘Thank Faust.’ Unfortunately, this little spit did nothing to still her frustration. ‘We’ve searched this town from top to bottom. Surely they must have something of importance.’
“Mommy.”
“Yes sweetie.” Chrysalis said.
“How about there?” Sugar pointed to an old shop. “There could be some good stuff.”
Chrysalis was about to say no, and lead the filly elsewhere, when she caught herself. The aura surrounding the building was intense. Now, with every being or artifact, of magical or living origins, they contain a certain aura about them. The aura from the shop ranged immensely. She smiled and nuzzled the filly. “Good work, my daughter.” Sugar smiled brightly, obviously pleased with herself.
The duo then trotted inside. The store’s atmosphere was not surprising. Old and worn down, it was the stereotypical old, artifact shop. One could see a wide arrangement of trinkets and artifacts. She even spied a few weapons. “Hello!” Chrysalis called out. “Is anypony here?”
Nopony answered. The queen huffed. ‘How rude.’ She certainly could see why this place was such a dump. Lousy service! She took it upon herself to look around. None of the items presented really caught her eye, until one. A sword of unique design. The blade, which was curved like a samurai sword, was as black as her chitin. The handle was red and looked like it was made from dragon hide. There were no handle bars, indicating an equine creator. Since equines lacked fingers, handle bars were unneeded. And to top it off, there, in the middle, was an amber colored, dew shaped gem.
“Ah, you have a keen eye.” Chrysalis turned her head to see a grey, light blue maned stallion. He wore a cap she thought would fit more easily with in the eastern pony nations. He had a light brown shirt, a darker pair of pants, and a red scarf. A small set of spectacles did little to hid his golden eyes, which she could tell, were tempered with wisdom. “Todeshändler is a fine sword.”
“Indeed to it is.” Chrysalis returned her gaze to the sword. For some reason, it was as if it was calling to her. To make an analogue, it felt similar to when she fed off of Shining Armor’s love. It was so strong and powerful, she couldn’t help but keep her attention on it. “How much?” She asked without thinking. A part of her thought it was insane. She needed no weapon in combat. Her armor (which was back in her kingdom) and her teeth and hooves were enough. Not to mention, quick wit. A sword would just get in the way. But overall, she felt that longing sensation. She had to have this sword.
“I’m afraid that’s not possible.” The elder stallion said. “It’s not for sale.”
“What?” Chrysalis’s eyes narrowed.
“Todeshändler, while a fine sword, is far too dangerous. It has a dark history and has spilt far too much innocent blood. I will not make such a foolish decision as to let such a powerful artifact get out and about. A second time.” He muttered the last sentence to himself. Only thanks to Chrysalis’s superior hearing, did she catch it.
“I don’t think you heard me correctly.” Chrysalis turned to face him. A harsh unrelenting glare was set on her face, causing the stallion to flinch. “I want that sword.”
“I’m sorry.” He squeaked out. “It’s not for sale.”
Before Chrysalis could hound him some more, Sugar came up to her and tapped her rear leg. “Mommy, can I have this?” She held aloft a simple, thin, red necklace.
“No sweetie,” Chrysalis said, not turning to look at her. “Mommy’s busy.”
“But you promised I could pick out something when we came into town.”
Chrysalis was about to ask her what she was talking about, when she remembered Rove’s promise. She patted herself on the back for catching herself before she made another mistake around the filly. She sighed. “Fine.” She turned her head and took the necklace by magic and then turned to him. “How much?”
The stallion sighed in relief. He had managed to evade this frightening mare’s wrath. “Excellent choice, young filly. This here is…”
“I don’t want to know it’s history,” Chrysalis cut him off. She was already a little perturbed that she had to buy something for the small pony. “How much?”
“15 bits.” Chrysalis used her magic to take them out of the saddle she was wearing. “Here.” She dropped them into his hoof. She then turned around and left. The stallion wasn’t going to give her the sword, so she kept reminding herself that she didn’t need it.”
He smiled. “Thank you,” He called out. “And come again.” _______________________________________________________________________ Curio watched as the strange mare left his shop. “Thank goodness she’s gone.” He said, shivering. “Though, why do I feel like there was something wrong about her?” He then turned to the sword. “And why did she want you?” He puzzled and puzzled, until his puzzler was sore. He then sigh. "I guess I'll know when she comes back." How he knew that, he wasn't sure. But his instincts had always been spot on.
Just then, he heard somepony open the front door. “Why hello…” He stopped talking when he turned around to see the pony. His eyes went wide. “Impossible. This cannot be. Your kind were banished from this realm.”
Once again, we return to the world of Equis. A world of magic and excitement. Where adventure abounds and the count of adventurers numerous. With tranquility at ones...whatever they have at the end of their legs. A world…..
“I”LL MISS YOU!”
“I”LL MISS YOU MORE!”
A world filled with overdramatic, cry babies.
Chrysalis groaned as she watched Sugar and Steven cry. The little filly was held in Steven’s scrawny arms. The two had been blubbering and whimpering for quite some time. It made her wonder how much water those two stored within their bodies. She could literally see the river rising beneath them.‘What sorcery is this?’ The Black Knight didn’t seem to be bothered by the display. In fact, the giant stallion used the opportunity to clean with rather large broad sword.
‘Okay, enough of this.’ Chrysalis coughed into her hoof. The two whiners stopped and looked at her. “I hate to be the one to break up this…touching scene, but I would like to point out that I’ve been sitting here for THREE HOURS!” She yelled the last two words, spitting them forth with much venom.
Steven and Sugar looked at each other, and then offered her an apologetic look. He then placed her back onto the ground. “I am ever so sorry about that, miss Rove. I just got caught up in the moment.”
“The serpent does that.” The Black Knight stated, while sheathing his sword. “A lot.”
Steven huffed and crossed his arms. “Is that the thanks I get for teaching you proper modern speech? It took me so long to convince you to even consider it, that I nearly lost hope.”
“Thine efforts are for naught.” The Black Knight said, gripping his sword. “It is by my choice alone that I learned this…lazy excuse for equish.”
The giant river serpent sighed. “Some things never change.”
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Could we please direct this moving drama that way.” She pointed to the forest. “I’d like to get home within this millennium, if you don’t mind.”
“Very well,” The Black Knight said, making his way to the forest. “I shall lead the way.”
“Oh do take the lead, sir knight.” Chrysalis seethed. “It’s not like I don’t know my own way home.”
The stallion laughed. “Tis funny. A mare giving me directions. Truly worthy of Canterlot’s finest comedies.”
Chrysalis seemed to be turning red. She bit her bottom lipped and shook in such a way, that Steven was sure that she was about to erupt. The serpent lowered his head next to her. “Stay calm, miss Rove. He’s just insensitive. It’s a part of his character.”
“Then he needs a rewrite.” Chrysalis growled. Her horn lit up. “A little tweak here and there in his personality, and he’d as right as rain.”
“But mommy, that’s mean.” Sugar Rush spoke up. “You can’t just force him to change.”
“She’s right you know.” Steven said.
“Then how, pray tell, will I get him to become more…agreeable.”
“Become his friend, of course.” Sugar smiled.
Chrysalis just stared at her for a few moments. “Seriously?” Sugar nodded. The changeling queen rolled her eyes. ‘Like that’s ever going to happen.’ The two then trotted off after the knight. _______________________________________________________________________________ The two ponies and changeling had been walking through the woods for what seemed like hours. The only sound was that of Sugar, who spoke up once in a while to kill the silence. She wore the simple red necklace around her neck and was fascinated by it.
“Does it make me look pretty, mommy?” Sugar asked.
“Sweetie, you didn’t need a necklace for that.” Chrysalis stated. Which was the truth. Sugar was an adorable little snack….she meant filly. “But it makes you look especially pretty.” Sugar beamed a brilliant smile her way, and the changeling soaked up the filly’s love. The queen smiled.
“Thy necklace ist tacky in the most extreme of the sense.” The Black Knight spoke up.
Chrysalis glared at him, trotting up beside him. “Oh, and how would you know?”
“My mother was a jeweler.” The Black Knight told her. “Before the Sister’s War, I worked with her in her shop.”
“But you’ve got to admit, it looks cute on her.”
“I don’t think so.” The Black Knight scoffed.
Chrysalis growled. Yes, Sugar may be just an Earth pony, but she was hers. No one talked bad about her property. “Now see here….”
The Black Knight stopped all movement and held up a hoof. “Shhh.”
“Don’t you ‘Shhh’ me.” Chrysalis said. “No one ‘Shhh’s’ me.”
“Shhh.” The knight turned on her sharpy.
“I thought I told you….”
The knight cut her off by covering her mouth with one of his huge hooves. She was shocked. ‘He’s touching me. This big oaf is touching me. The nerve.’
“Keep thy mouth closed and thy ears alert.” The Black Knight whispered. “We are not alone.”
At that, her ears perked up. Thanks to her generally superior hearing, she could hear the tale-tell sound of hooves. ‘Course, these weren’t the hooves of ponies. They were a lot more simple and quick. The knight took his hoof off her lips and she muttered “Deer”.
He nodded. “Aye,” He told her. “They are a plenty in these woods.”
“Why?”
“They think themselves lords of the Everfree.” The Black Knight explained. “They will defend their homes with a fiery passion that I am honored to have bested on more than one occasion.”
Chrysalis gulped. Deer may not have been as strong as ponies, but they were quicker and had a size advantage. She quickly turned to look at her filly. “Sugar, get inside.”
“Why?” She tilted her head, curiously.
“Don’t question me, just do it.” Chrysalis said, with some venom. The filly, looking a little frightened, ran inside. A tinge of illness afflicted her majesty, but she ignored it. Still, she felt a little guilty for scaring her needlessly.‘Strange how things change.’ She turned to the knight. “What now?”
“We press on.” The Black Knight told her. He started walking again. “Perhaps they may leave us alone.”
“What? You don’t want to confront them.” Chrysalis asked, trotting beside him. “All that bravado talk, it painted you out for somepony who went out of their way to find a fight.”
“Tis a misconception. I do not go out looking for fights. I merely enjoy the ones that befall me.”
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. The two kept on walking, hearing the occasional soft scuffle of some deer running about. The changeling queen could see the shadowy shapes of individuals, lurking between the trees. She could also swear that she heard angsty music.
This went on for a few moments until…..
“NI!”
Right in front of them, appearing out of nowhere, were over a dozen deer. The garments they wore were both familiar and strange. The armor was sleek and form fitting. No other race except the races of deer could make such well crafted sleek armor. The armor was colored with dark green and black stripes, fitting for the dark forest. Their helmets covered their faces well. Even their eyes were covered with a dark film. As they were deer, they were quite tall, much taller than a normal pony. The leader, who was much taller then the rest maybe even reaching the size of an alicorn, wore a long woolly black cloak. The deer were armed with spears that were mounted on their shoulders. Chrysalis also knew to be weary of their horns. All the ones before her were male obviously, so they could seriously harm her with a headbutt. A collective sound of ‘Ni’ kept rebounding from the group.
The Black Knight moved to grab his sword. “Stay your sword knight, or we shall carve your arm from out of its socket with….A SPORK!” The leader, the deer with the tallest headgear which allowed one to see his light brown face and huge bushy mustache, held up a measly spork in its hooves.
Chrysalis wanted to laugh, but saw that the Black Knight actually stopped himself. “Really?” She said out loud. “You’re afraid of a spork?”
“You have no knowledge of the power of sporks.” The Black Knight said.
“Indeed.” The deer slowly put away the utensil, keeping his eyes on them. “So tell me, wary travelers. Why do you trespass our woods?”
“Trespass?” Chrysalis asked. “These are not your woods. The Everfree is no one’s domain.”
The deer all laughed. “Naïve mare, the woods have been our home for seven hundred years.” The leader explained. “They are our safe haven. A refuge from the accursed griffons who drove us from our homelands. This place is as much our home now, as it is the monsters that dwelled in it before us.”
“Then why do you let the pony village stay unchecked within your domain?” The changeling queen said.
“Because they are not a threat to us.”
Chrysalis laughed. “Oh, I’ve heard that one before. You have no idea how vicious ponies can be.”
“Ponies? Vicious?” The deer leader seemed confused. “Are we talking about the same species?”
The Black Knight stepped forward. “Do not listen to the wench. Her mind is addled.” Chrysalis gave him a glare that cool lay dragons dead within a millisecond.
“Yes, obviously.” The deer leader nodded. “Now, back to the topic at hoof. Why are you in our woods?”
“We are merely passing through.”
The deer all laughed. “Fool. No creature can simply pass through the Everfree. Our black woods are guarded by more than just mere deer. We are a force that does not sleep. Your every move is seen and categorized.” The deer stopped putting a hoof onto his chin. “Which is very tedious and time consuming. Not to mention that there are a lot of moves that are boring and dull. Those are just placed within the recycle bin.” He then shook his head, getting back into ‘serious mode’. “This is a cursed forest, riddled with plants and creatures that could swallow a whole pony hole. The very air itself carries the stench of death…”
“You’re making that up.” Chrysalis pointed out.
“Okay, it doesn’t reek.” The leader grumbled. “But it’s still a nasty place, guarded by the most powerful deer in existence. Not with ten-thousand ponies could you take it from us. Not even her majesty Celestia, bless her soul, could pry it from our hooves. For we are…”
“Pause for dramatic effect.” One of the other deer spoke up.
“THE DEER WHO SAY NI!” Chrysalis could swear she heard some ominous music with that line.
The others piped up, jittering about saying the word. For some reason, the Black Knight started cowering. Chrysalis simply raised an eyebrow. “The Deer Who Say Ni. That’s what you call yourselves?”
“Well TDWSN for short, but we prefer the long version. Much more threatening.”
“Yeah, not really.”
“What?”
“It’s not really threatening. I mean, Ni isn’t threatening.”
“WENCH SHUT YOUR MOUTH!” The Black Knight shouted. He was probably glaring at her from underneath the helmet. “These are The Deer Who Say Ni. None may live in these woods without their say-so.”
“But you said you’ve dealt with countless of their kind.” Chrysalis brought up.
The Black Knight shifted nervously. The leader glared at him. “Is what the wench saying true?”
‘I am not a wench, you wankers.’ Chrysalis thought, but stilled her tongue. Now was not the time for insults….Why the others didn’t think so was beyond her. ‘Obviously their too stupid to even consider it.’
“Well, thy knights harassed me, from time to time.” The Black Knight stated. “Probably due to me never allowing them across my bridge.”
The deer all gasped. “You are the dreaded Black Knight?”
The Black Knight puffed his chest out and nodded. “I am.”
The leader bowed his head. “Apologies great warrior. I did not know.”
“No need to mention thine mistakes.” The Black Knight said.
“Wait, so does that mean we can pass?” Chrysalis asked.
The deer all laughed. “Buck no.” The leader stated, causing the queen to frown. “But it does mean that if you choose to fight, it’ll be that much more interesting.”
“Look,” Chrysalis said. “Is there any way we can go forth through the forest without fighting?”
The deer leader’s expression became blank. “No fighting?” He rubbed his chin. “Never thought of that one before.” Suddenly, his eyes widened and a smirk appeared on his face. “Yes there is. You must find…”
“Pause for dramatic effect.” The same background deer said.
“A MAP!”
The other deer echoed the request. “A map?” Chrysalis tilted her head, giving a ‘you serious’ expression.
“Yes, but not just any map. You must find….”
“Pause for dramatic effect.”
“A TREASURE MAP!”
Chrysalis facehooved.‘They’re serious.’ “The Deer Who Say Ni,” The Black Knight spoke. “You are both just and fair. We shall find you a treasure map and bring it back to you post-haste.”
“Very good.” The deer leader said.
“Mommy, can I come out now?” Sugar spoke up from within the wagon.
“You have a filly with you?” The deer leader asked. “In these woods?”
“Yeah, so?” Chrysalis raised an eyebrow.
“Nothing, nothing.” The deer leader said. “Maybe I could be allowed to see her.”
Chrysalis sighed.‘Well, it wouldn’t hurt.’ “Sugar, you can come out now.”
The little filly slowly opened the door, before zooming over to her mother’s side. She looked up at the deer, fearfully. “SO CUTE!” The deer leader smiled, making the ‘wub you’ face.
“M-m-mommy. Who are they?” Sugar asked her ‘mother’.
“We are The Deer Who Say Ni.” The leader spoke. “My name is Ickyickyickyickybetangzumboingzom.” The three just stared at him, causing him to sigh. “But you may call me…”
“Pause for dramatic effect.”
“TIM!”
“Are you going to keep doing that?” Chrysalis said.
“Doing what?” Tim asked.
“The whole ‘Pause for dramatic effect’, then shouting your name while some ominous music plays in the background.”
“…..Yes.” Tim said. Chrysalis groaned. ____________________________________________________________________________ The group made their way back to the town. Once there, they came across Steven Magnet and there was much rejoicing.
“YAY!” Two voices could be heard, while the tell-tale sound of a feminine groan sounded off.
They split up into groups. Three to be precise, including The Black Knight, since he didn’t want to go about questioning ponies about maps. He’s not much of a sociable pony. (No duh.) ___________________________________________________________________________ Steven swam all the way up the town and back. Not many ponies even came close to him, let alone come to the river’s edge. ‘It was something about crocodiles, but that’s just silly. There aren’t any crocodiles in the Everfree.’
Just then, a pegasus mare went flying by, coming to stop near him. She was light green and sported a fabulous yellow mane. “Whoa, what are you?”
Steven was shocked with that question, as was visible on his face. “What am I? Haven’t you ever heard of a river serpent?” She shook her head. “Can’t say that I have.” She told him. “So, what’re you doing here? You’re not trying to gobble up some innocent bystanders, are you?” Steven looked absolutely horrified.‘Me. Actually killing someone. OUTRAGIOUS!’ The mare just started laughing. “Sorry, but I had to see that face. Priceless.”
Steven huffed and crossed his arms. “How rude.”
“Oh, don’t be like that. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.” The mare told him. She then lent out a hoof. “The name’s Lightning Dust. The fastest mare in all the world.”
“Steven Magnet.” He said, taking her hoof and shaking it. It felt quite small in his hands. “The most fabulous serpent in the Everfree. By the way, where ever did you get that fabulous hair style?”
“Family trade mark.” Lightning smirked. “An awesome mare’s got to have an awesome hairstyle. It’s like the old saying goes. ‘If you’ve got it, flaunt it’.”
“I do agree with you there.” Steven shared a smug smile, combing a hand across his mane. “What’s a mare like you doing around these parts?”
“Oh, just exploring.” Lightning Dust grinned.
Suddenly, he remembered something. “Wait, I just remembered something. Do you by any chance know where I can find some maps?”
Lightning tapped her hoof on her chin. “Can’t say that I do?” Steven’s face fell. “But I’ll help you look for them.” “You would?”
Lightning nodded. “It’s the least I could do for jesting you like that.” _____________________________________________________________________________________ Chrysalis and Sugar strolled the town, asking away. For some reason, whenever she asked for maps they shied away. Finally, she stopped beside a grey old mare in ragged dirty brown cloak. “Old mare, do you by any chance know where we can find a map.”
The mare cringed. “Who sent you?”
“The Deer Who Say Ni.” Again, she cringed. “Ahh, there are no maps here.” The old mare said. “Go away,”
“Look,” Chrysalis started. “I’ve had a long day. A really long day and I don’t need an old pony making it even longer. So tell me where I can find a map or I shall…” Chrysalis peaked a look at Sugar. She couldn’t do anything harmful to the old mare while she was looking. That would scar her. No, she had to find another way…’That’s it.’ She remembered the way The Black Knight kept cringing when they said Ni. Maybe it was just because of their voices, but she’d give it a shot. “I shall say Ni.”
The mare cringed as though struck. “No.”
“Very well,” Chrysalis stuck her snout up, snootily. “If you will not comply with my simple demand, I shall say it again…NI!”
“No.”
“NI!”
“Nuuu.”
Chrysalis looked down at Sugar, who had also pitched in. “No, no. It’s Ni. Like knee.” She pointed to her front knee joint.
“Ni?”
“Yes,” Chrysalis smiled.
“NI!” They both kept saying, that is until…
“Are you two saying Ni to that old mare?” It was a strange voice, obviously holding an accent that she was all too familiar with.
The two looked over to see a better dressed, but still ragged, griffon. He was riding upon a large, Timberwolf pulled cart. Which obviously meant he was quite adept with animals, since only the most animal adept sentients could tame the beasts. “Ummm, yes.” Chrysalis smiled sheepishly, a little embarrassed to be seen like that.
“Oh, what sad times we live in.” The griffon stated. “There is a darkness upon the world. An evil from the blackest of hearts. Not even us griffons are free from its taint.”
“Might I ask, who are you?” Chrysalis said.
“I am Albin, the mapmaker.” The griffon bowed his head. “I am a map connoisseur. I collect, design, and create maps.”
“Ni.” Sugar rushed forth, only to be held back by Chrysalis’s magic.
“No Sugar,” Chrysalis put a hoof on her shoulder. “We don’t Ni mapmakers.”
“Ohhh, okay.” Sugar said. ___________________________________________________________________________ Sometime later, near the time of fading daylight….
“The Deer Who Say Ni,” The Black Knight stated. “We have brought you a map. May we go now?”
Tim was currently gazing over the map. “It is a good map. A very good map.”
“So, can we go already?” Chrysalis said.
“You…” Tim was cut off when a fellow deer came racing up to him. He was panting hard. “What is it?”
“The village. *pant* It’s under attack.”
The Battle of 'The Town in the Somewhat Middle of the Everfree Forest But Not Quite' (The townsfolk were terrible at naming things.) Part 1
The sun was starting to set in the distance, when a small patrol of deer, three in total, took their place over a hill overlooking the town. “Anything to report.” The oldest of the three asked his brethren.
“Nothing.” One of the others responded, scowling. He scratched at the ground in irritation. “A whole lot of nothing. Just like usual.”
“Good.” The eldest said. “I’d rather have nothing over something.”
“Well I’d rather have something over nothing.” The deer knight spoke up again. “This place is too dull for my tastes.”
“You live in the Everfree Forest, laddy. How is that too dull for you?” The elderly deer of NI tilted his head to the side.
“The monsters know very well not to trespass upon our towns and camps.” The deer knight said. “I haven’t seen any action since I first picked up my father’s sword.”
The third knight rolled his eyes. He’d heard this argument one too many times before. Tuning them out, he picked up the binoculars that were wrapped around his neck and looked through them. He did have to give the griffons credit for one thing. This invention was quite nifty. He scanned the village.
‘Let’s see.’ He thought, looking over each thing while checking them off in his mind.‘Building intact. Check. Villagers safe. Check. Giant mustached serpent talking with a light green pegasus….Check? Living shadows running towards the village. Check……….’ He let the binoculars fall right out of his hoof. “Guys.”
“Democracy is the way of the future.”
“That system is doomed to fail, due to the corrupt officials that will inevitably take control.”
“Guys!” The spotter said again. The two looked at him. “We’ve got a problem.” They walked over beside him. The spotter took off his binoculars and handed it to the elder.
The elder stood still for a moment, looking over with the contraption. “Tray. Go warn the others.” T he spotter nodded and took off. __________________________________________________________________________________ Everyone just stared at the panting deer. “Say what?” Tim asked.
“The town is under attack.” The deer repeated.
“By who?” Tim demanded. The deer knight went silent, his face turning took on a frightful tone. “Who is attacking the town?” Again, the deer knight looked unable to answer. It seemed as though his very breathing stopped. “Answer me fellow knight, or I shall slap you silly until you talk.”
“Shadows!” The deer knight nearly shouted, overcoming his initial fear.
“Shadows?” Tim asked. He looked into the deer’s face, searching for a sign of mirth. “You were spooked by mere shadows? Do you honestly think I’m going to buy that?”
The deer of Ni shook his head. “No. These were no ordinary shadows. They were alive. At least I though they were. They moved with a conscious of their own.”
“How can a shadow just get up and walk?” Chrysalis asked. “That seems quite impossible.”
“Tis ‘cause your mind is short and narrow, wench.” The Black Knight spoke up. “I know of these shadows the fellow here speaks of.”
“And how is it that you know of them and not we?” Tim rounded upon him. “We, who have lived in these woods for centuries, mapping them to the fullest. We have faced every single danger these woods have thrown at us and then some. Yet, I have never heard of living shadows.”
“Because they have not graced this planet for nearly a thousand years.” The Black Knight said. The group looked at him in silence.
“A thousand years?” Tim said incredulously. “But that would mean…”
“They are Vokunaar. Shadows as we called them.” The Black Knight said.
“Servants of the dark forces?” Tim said. The other deer started to panic. Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. ‘Dark forces? They don’t sound that tough.’ “The minions of Nightmare Moon have returned? But that’s impossible. She was cast away long ago.”
Chrysalis’s eyes widened. ‘Dark forces? Nightmare Moon? In hindsight, I should have made that connection.’ She felt a small shiver of fear run down her spine. That was one mare she certainly did not want to meet again, in one form or another.
“Obviously she has escaped her imprisonment.” Chrysalis could hear a tint of happiness in his voice.
“Then we should strike them now.” One of the deer of Ni spoke up, stepping forward. “We’ll show her that these woods belong to the Deer Who Say Ni.” The Black Knight laughed. “What?” The knight sounded peeved, stomping a hoof onto the ground.
“The lady Nightmare will not be scared away by some foolish deer.” The Black Knight said. “She is the embodiment the darkness within us all. The savior that the pony race needs.”
Chrysalis couldn’t but look at him, incredulously. “Savior? She was going to plunge the world into darkness.”
“For the benefit of our species.” The Black Knight put a hoof to his chest. “Lest we give way for the other creatures of this world to take what is rightfully ours.”
“You make it sound as if you’re going to join them.” Chrysalis said, which caused all the deers to go on the defensive. They clutched their spears and aimed it at the gargantuan Earth pony.
The Black Knight looked to Sugar. The little filly was underneath her mother, unsure of what the grown-ups were talking about. He sighed. “The darkness affects the hearts of the pure and the young. I am no fool. I know the evil that lurks within the shadows and I will not let harm come to Sugar. On my honor, I swear that I will do anything to protect her. Even die for her. I owe her that much for besting me.”
“She bested you?” Tim said. The other deer started to laugh. “A little earth pony filly bested the famed Black Knight.” He started to join in on the laughter. Chrysalis couldn’t help but chuckle along, just for the sake of irritating the oaf. Sugar sent Tim a small glare, before looking at the large stallion with an expression that read ‘Sorry’.
The Black Knight growled. “Her cuteness is not something to be taken lightly.”
“I can imagine.” Tim stopped his laughter. “Now honor and morals aside, we still have a problem. And we must stop it, at once.”
“That is your problem, not ours.” Chrysalis stated. “If you excuse us, we’ll be on our way.” Chrysalis motioned to go on, but the large stallion blocked her way with a hoof. “What are you doing?”
“We cannot leave.” The Black Knight said.
“Oh, please do.” Tim gestured to Chrysalis. “This mare is starting to annoy me.” Chrysalis shot him a glare.
“We cannot leave.” The Black Knight repeated. “The specters will kill everyone within the village. And they won’t stop there. We must strike now, before the sun sets fully. Else they will have the advantage.”
“Then what are we waiting for?” Tim drew one of his trusty sporks from his side. “Let us be off.”
“Good luck with that.” Chrysalis smiled, giving a small wave. ‘Hopefully, one of these ‘shadows’ will tear this deer’s head off.’
“You’re not coming, wench?” The Black Knight asked.
Chrysalis faked an apologetic smile and pulled Sugar close to her. “Someone needs to look after little Sugar here.”
“Bloodshed would do her much good.” The Black Knight lowered his head to the filly’s level. “The feel of someone’s life-force slipping away by your hoof is like no other sensation on this world.”
“Umm, no thanks.” The little filly squeaked out, trying to look invisible underneath her 'mother'. Chrysalis sent him a small glare. Fear did nothing for her little filly as well as her.
The Black Knight snorted. “Mares.” He then ran off, with the deer close by.
“You.” Tim said, pointing to the messenger deer. “Stay with them.” The deer nodded. The leader then ran off after his kindred.
Chrysalis sighed happily. ‘Finally, those idiots are gone.’ She then felt something tug on her mane. She looked down at her supposed daughter. “Yes?”
“Can we play tea party?” Sugar said. “Princess Celestia and Captain Strong Hoof miss those.”
Chrysalis cringed. It was bad enough she had to play little games and such, but to play with her aunt’s figurine, after she had attacked and been expunged from her domain, was a bit much. “Sure.” She said with some scorn.
“YAY!” Sugar Rush hugged her leg. The little filly let go and pulled her inside the wagon. The deer knight chuckled at the sight, causing the changeling queen to send him a death glare. He stood at attention and didn’t utter a word afterwards. ___________________________________________________________________________________ The group ran through the forest at full speed. “Say,” Tim spoke up, running beside the Black Knight. “How tough are these ‘shadows’?”
“Not very, but they make up for that with numbers.”
Tim chuckled. “Then what are we worrying about? My warriors can shred through their ranks like they were nothing but leaves.”
“Yes, they could,” The Black Knight said. “But eventually, they will overtake your warriors. We must find the Shadow Master.”
“The Shadow Master? You mean someone is controlling them?”
The Black Knight nodded. “The ‘Shadows’ will continue to appear and attack until their master is slain or has retreated.”
“Shouldn’t be too hard. We’ll just be on the lookout for some creature of darkness spewing nonsense.”
“Actually, it’ll look more like a pony wearing a black cloak and white insignias all over.”
“That doesn’t sound nearly as impressive as what I had imagined.” Tim looked a little put out.
“Thine trust should be put in me.” The Black Knight remarked. “They are most hardy foes.”
“I’ll take you word, sir knight.” Tim said.
Their talk stopped that moment, for a loud scream pierced the air. Another followed, and another, and another. The group pushed into overdrive, running as fast as they could. The Black Knight thanked the princess of the night for granting him such great stamina, else he would fall behind. Deer were, by nature, much faster then ponies. So, with this new gusto, they made it to the hill, overlooking the town. They didn’t need goggles to see what was happening. Random blasts popped here and there and blackness swept itself through, as if it were alive.
The Black Knight could see Tim reeling in anger. He smiled.‘Good. We’ll need that.’
Tim grabbed a spork from his belt, lifted it into the sky, and then pointed forth. “CHARGE!” He bellowed. ______________________________________________________________________________ “EAT THIS!” Lightning Dust yelled, flying right through another shadow monster. Shortly after their initial attack, she had jumped into the fray. The black monstrosities were initially frightening (causing her pause as they sent spells ripping right through ponies and cracking them with their hooves), but her resolve won out in the end.‘Hey, I’m a future Wonderbolt. No shadow chumps are going to stop me.’ Shadows fit them perfectly. Their movements seemed…off. They would twitch, move around all the time. Another thing, they had no eyes or mouth. They were like just one big black blob, the shadowy form of somepony. They seemed to have a whispy aura. That parts of themselves would float around and then come back, only to tear away. These were only small fragments, but it still was very strange to her.‘I’m a pony in a magical land. Nothing should be strange to me.’ Yet, she couldn’t deny how unearthly they were. They certainly did not belong to this world.
Soon into her fight, she had nailed one of them full on its side. The shadow monster immediately dissipated. For a split second, she thought she killed it. Then, she came up with something. ‘These chumps are just walking shadows.’ The most obvious answer, but an apt one. Again and again, she attacked, throwing them into walls, the ground, each other, or just flying right through them. The creatures were still dangerous, as she had to watch out for stray magic bolts and flying ones. She thanked Celestia (and Luna) that the sun, albeit dimmed, was still shining. Else, she would think herself done for, even with all her awesome moves.
Three more pegasi shadows flew at her. “Oh, you want some of me too?” She grinned. With her superior speed, she zigzagged straight through each. “Ha! No sweat.” Suddenly, a black bolt of energy whizzed straight past her, causing her to flinch.‘Thank Celestia they suck at aiming.’ She looked down at the unicorn shadow. “Colt, you suck at this.” She stretched forehooves and dove downwards, smashing into the shadow. “Ha, my great grandma could take you chumps.” She hovered in her spot, smirking.
Another shadow, an earth pony variant charged her. She simply flapped her wings once, getting over it. “Ok, you guys are freakin’ unbelievable in how bad you are.” With an inward sigh, she flew high enough over the town to get a good vantage point.‘Now where’s the real fight?’ She asked herself, before spying a rather large group of shadows. They were gathered around a small shop. Explosions of bright light popped up now and again. Her playful smirk returned. “It’s nice to know I’m not the only one kicking butt around here.”
Flying right towards the large shadowy horde, Lightning smashed right through several. Touching her hooves to the ground, she quickly bucked another one. “So, any takers.” She addressed the large group surrounding her.
Before any of shadows could answer, the entire area become golden yellow. Lightning Dust covered her eyes to block out the sunshine. She felt a hoof grab her and pull her along. The mare tried to resist, but a stern voice spoke up. “Young mare, you best come with me.”
For some reason she listened and allowed the stranger to take her along. Her father’s words running through her head.
‘If you ever find yourself surrounded by demonic shadows, blinded by pure light, and hear someone tell you to come with them, go with them.’
Her dad was strange.
When she heard someone close some door, she dared to open her eyes. It was kind of difficult after just getting hit by that bright light, but she managed. Lightning Dust saw an elderly earth pony looking out the window. He was wearing a sort of eastern style dress or something. A saddle adorned his side. “It seems they have been dispatched for now.”
“Who’s been dispatched and why’d you set off some mini-sun out there.” The Pegasus mare rubbed her eyes. “Almost burned out my eyes.”
The older pony snorted. “You’ll live.” His outward gaze scanned the streets. “That’ll buy us a few minutes.” He rubbed his chin. “Strange. These shadows are much weaker than the ones in the old tales.”
“Who are you anyways?” Lightning’s eyesight finally cleared up.
“Curio.” He finally turned towards her. “Owner of ‘Curio’s Ancient Secrets’ line of stores.”
“You own a chain that sells useless nick-nacks?”
Curio stared at her for a while with a neutral expression. “Not all of them are useless.”
Lightning Dust rolled her eyes. “Yeah, like I thought. Now if you’ll excuse me. I have a town to save.” She started for the door.
“You have no idea who you’re dealing with.”
Lightning snorted. “A bunch of terror wannabees. I’ve seen scarier snails than these losers.”
“You underestimate the powers of darkness.” Curio told her.
“Cha, I’ve never been afraid of the dark.” Lightning put her hoof on the doorknob.
“Then let me assist you.”
Lightning chuckled and turned her head to him. “You, an old stallion? Look, I know you want to help your town, but I’ve got better things to do then to babysit someone’s grandpa.”
“Do not judge a book by its cover.” Curio walked past her and outside.
Lighting couldn’t help but roll her eyes at that old saying. ‘Must be as old as this geezer.’ She smiled. “Okay old timer, let’s see what you’ve got.” ____________________________________________________________________________________ A single pair of eyes watched the two ponies depart. Hiding in the shadows, he knew that they would not see him. He smiled. ‘Good. All is going according to plan.’ He thought. His shadowlings had done their job perfectly. A dark chuckled erupted from the figure.
The Battle of 'The Town in the Somewhat Middle of the Everfree Forest But Not Quite' (The townsfolk were terrible at naming things.) Part 2
To say that deer were graceful in battle was an understatement. No, an insult. Grace is just a word used by those of lesser minds to describe the Deer of Ni. Everything about them, from their poise, their armor, and even their very souls was so attuned with everything and everyone around them. One might even mistake their fighting styles for dances, but The Black Knight knew better. He had fought a few deer in the thousand years he had to guard that accursed bridge. Never had he fought such worthy adversaries.
Neither had these Shadows. Not one of the Saki, that’s the name he knew what the deer were called, (they had often yelled their superiority when challenging him. Not that their ‘superiority’ did anything to help.) were hit by the Shadows. They weaved and dodged their assailants. ‘Course given the slow reaction time, even a regular pony could stand up to them with ease so he couldn’t give the deer much effort in this fight. ‘Odd. The shadows seem far weaker than usual.’
Still, the fight continued. While the deer fought with ‘grace’ and poise, The Black Knight would have none of that. His large armored body smashed through tides of black monstrosities. His large broad sword, which he clenched the handled between his teeth, cut through several at a time. Unfortunately for him, he could not see the blood and gore that sprouted from his fallen foes. The Shadows just vanished when defeated.
One of the unicorn Shadows tried to charge him. The Black Knight simply raised a hoof and crushed the creature’s head. ‘Poof’ There went the creature. There was no blood, no sound of his enemies’ bones breaking. Just a dispersed cloud of darkness. ‘I now know what my adversaries a thousand years ago felt like when facing these things. I pity them. There is no honor or enjoyment in fighting mere Shadows.’ Even their attacks were pointless, as stray black bolts of magic or lancing blows from them did nothing. He snorted. ‘Weak.’ Of course, this invulnerability was chalked up to his armor, but still he felt that these beings were just mere annoyances.
Tim cartwheeled past a bunch of the Shadows and stopped by his side. “These are the minions of Nightmare? Pray tell, how was she ever a threat?”
“Do not disrespect the dark powers.” The Black Knight growled, swinging his massive sword once more through black ‘nothings’.
Tim snorted. “I can disrespect them as much as I like.” He quickly plucked one of his sporks out and threw it through the head of a Shadow. “They are my enemies and an enemy deserves no respect.”
“And that is why ponies are superior to you deer. We have such things as respect and honor.”
Tim just laughed at his remark. “The idea that you ponies can even grasp what respect and honor truly mean is laughable…Which is what I’m doing now.” He laughed even harder. As he laughed, he pulled his spear from his shoulder to knock away another shadow.
“A competition then. Who so ever defeats the most foes is right.”
Tim guffawed. “Foolish pony. You really want to start this up during a fight?”
“Yes.”
“Then I accept.” Tim thrust his spear forward, dispersing another foe. “Fifty-Eight.”
The Black Knight swerved his blade outwards, slicing through five Shadows. “Sixty-Nine.” He smirked underneath his helmet. Tim scowled.‘Maybe this will be more fun than I thought.’ __________________________________________________________________________ Stephan Magnet huffed. ‘How many more of these trips do I have to make?’ The great river serpent scooped up another batch of helpless villagers and swam on. Quickly, he placed them on the opposite shore. Given his arm length and strength, he could carry only two or three at a time. Sometimes more if they were light weight and small. Thankfully, it was a small village. Only, eighty or so ponies in it. ‘Four-three down, several more to go.’
Of course he could always just lie across the waters, but that would take too long. What with the elderly, young, and…. The crowd started screaming again. Rushing back to the other side, it didn’t take long for him to spot the shadows. With misty forms that barely looked like they held together, the monstrosities seemed to be nightmares taken form. Stephan was glad he never met these things before and he would hope to never do so again.
“HEY!” A voice yelled, catching his attention. He looked over at one of two deer soldier fending off the Shadow horde. ‘Their armor is just so fabulous. I simply must ask for one in my size.’ “We require a hoof over here.”
“Its hand you idiot!” The elder one yelled, nimbly dodging a shadow blast and spearing one. He could already tell one was young and the other an elder by their voices. “He has hands, not hooves.”
“It’s the same thing.”
“NO IT ISN”T!”
Stephan rolled his eyes. They had been arguing over the simplest things all day. The river serpent lowered his muzzle into the water and sucked up gallons of water. His cheeks bulging from the amount. Rapidly, he aimed and fired. The torrent of water shot forth and swept a whole street full of Shadows away.
“Now that’s what I call a water gun.” The young one cheered, slamming his spear into one of the remaining shadows that hadn’t been caught up in the flood.
The towns ponies started to cheer as loud as they could. They yelled praises here and there. ‘We should give him a medal.’ ‘I was so wrong about serpents.’ ‘That was so cool.’ ‘I WANT YOUR BABY.’ Going to ignore that last one, Steven blushed and smiled sheepishly. He took a bow. “Think nothing of it.”
“DUDE! WHAT THE BUCK?!!” Somepony yelled. The moment Steven remembered who that voice was, was the same moment that the light green Pegasus flew right in front of his face. She was seething. An elderly Earth pony was held up by her. His midsection wrapped in her forelegs. “You nearly drowned us.”
“But I was taking care of those nasty brutes.”
“I DON”T BUCKING CARE!” Lightning seethed. “You should know pegasi aren’t good swimmers.” Steven opened his mouth. “And don’t go telling me that this was an earth pony settlement. You’re lucky there weren’t any kids on the streets.”
“Hey, leave him alone.” One of the mare bystanders yelled. “He saved our lives.”
“Pssh, don’t let her rustle your jimmies. She’s a Pegasus. Fliers just hate water.” The younger deer knight said.
“Your bucking right we do!” Lightning Dust yelled.
“Miss Pegasus…” the elderly pony said.
“Dust. It’s Lightning Dust. Miss Pegasus is my mother.” She told him.
“Dust, could you put me on the ground?” The elder asked.
“Of course pops.” Lightning Dust quickly flew down and placed him back on the firm earth.
“Thank you.”
“Miss Dust,” Steven Magnet lowered his head to her level. “I cannot begin to say how I’m sorry for my actions. I was just trying to keep the townsfolk safe. I never took into consideration that you might still be inside.”
Lightning held up a hoof. “No problemo Stevie.” She had quickly come to calling him that during their first meeting. He very much liked it. “Just had to vent. It’s been a rough day.”
Steven smiled. “Yes it has.” He stuck out a hand. “Friends?”
Lightning Dust brought forth a might grin. “Friends.” Putting her hoof into his and shaking it.
The elder smiled. “The bonds of friendship have been set. Good. They’ll need it.” He said to himself. _____________________________________________________________________________ “Pass the sugar mommy.” Sugar Rush said, imitating a posh accent. Chrysalis grumbled silently as she levitated a cup of tea over to the filly. “Thank you mommy.” She took the cup in her hooves and…poured the whole thing into her own. ‘Seriously. This filly loves sugar way too much.’
“You’re welcome.” Chrysalis couldn’t believe this was happening. Her! The birth mother of all changelings, {and a few other races, but that’s for later.} Enemy of Equestria, having a tea party with an Equestrian earth pony. Needless to say, that peeved her. It didn’t help matter with the fact that both of them were wearing ridiculous frou-frou outfits straight from some child’s fantasy about how a princess should look like while having this ‘party’. ‘And I have to wear a blue dress. No, blue will not do. I prefer green, black, or pink. Those are great colors.’
At least for her it wasn’t ‘absolutely’ degrading. It wasn’t a make believe tea party like Sugar wanted at first. ‘Fillies.’ She rolled her eyes. No, she found some items that they needed to have a proper tea party.
Yeah, she knew what a proper tea party was like. She used to have them all the time when she was Sugar’s age. Though, she never did like pretend. No Trawsian did. It was a waste of time when you could be doing the real thing. Imagination wasn’t smiled upon in her father’s country.
“Sugar,” Chrysalis started. “Do you really need all that…sugar?”
Sugar Rush tilted her head in confusion. “Why do you ask?”
“Well sweetie, haven’t I already gone over this?” Chrysalis asked, hoping Rove had told her about the whole ‘eating tons of sugar’ thing.
“Of course you have.” The little earth pony filly smiled. “You told me that sugar is only good in small amounts, else I’ll be all tired afterwards.” Chrysalis sighed. ‘Thank Faust. I don’t know what I’d do with a filly chalk full of the sweet stuff.’ “But I haven’t had sugar in a long whiles, so I’m making up for it.”
Chrysalis tilted her face up to look at the ceiling. “Why? Why me?” She muttered.
“Why you what, mommy?”
“Nothing.” The queen said quickly. She took her cup of tea with her magic and took a dainty sip. “Just don’t eat all that sugar.”
“Awww,” Sugar looked disappointed. Her ears splayed back and she looked away. “But I like sugar.” “A good little filly should listen to her mother. I said that one should have small amounts once in a while. And by Faust herself, that is what you will do.”
“Faust? Who’s Faust?” The filly asked.
“You do not know who Faust is?” Chrysalis groaned. “Equestria’s education system is intolerable.”
“But you taught me everything I know?”
“Well forget most of what I said previously. We’re starting you’re schooling over again.”
“But that’s not fair. I don’t want to learn all over again.”
“You’ll be a good filly and do as I say.” Chrysalis sent her a small glare, which caused Sugar to back off. The queen of the changelings smiled. “Good.” She took another sip of her tea, closing her eyes to enjoy the taste. Just by doing so some creatures would be shocked, to which she laughed. There was a myth floating around that changelings didn’t/couldn’t eat solid food and drink. That it was all ash in their mouths. That they were cursed to be so.
‘Poppycock.’ She thought. Yes, changelings could go without food if they have sufficient intakes of love. But there was nothing more satisfying then literally filling your belly. And the ash in their mouths, no, their taste was stronger and more heightened. Like with this tea she now sipped. It was like drinking in pleasure. ‘Rove certainly had good taste when it came to tea.’
She stole a glance over to Sugar. With a flick of her magic, she straightened the filly’s back. “No slouching. A lady never slouches.”
“Yes mommy.” Sugar voice shook a bit. It was obvious the sudden use of magic spooked her.
“And don’t pretend to be posh.” Chrysalis told her. “It makes you sound stupid and you aren’t stupid, are you?”
“No.”
“Exactly. You have a lot to learn, my sweet.” Chrysalis smiled, pleased with herself. ‘Maybe I can make this filly somewhat tolerable.’ She thought. Even as content as she was, she couldn’t shake the feelings from Sugar. As per usual, they were connected. What Sugar felt, she felt. It was an annoying trait that she and her changelings had. Because of this, a changeling ran the risk of bonding with their target. It had happened one too many times. She had lost quite a few scout castes to this and in return gained a little following of pony offspring. Changelings especially loved children. Even with this annoyance, they had uses. A pony spy can’t be detected with spells like changelings could.
This brought her train of thought back to Sugar. ‘Bonding with a filly? Outrageous!’ The instinct was still within her. Her Nurse caste was built around that very instinct. So she knew she ran the risk of ‘bonding’. Still she was the queen of the changelings. If the filly still lived when they got back to the hive, maybe she’d make her a servant or just convert her into one of her ‘children’.
“Miss,” A voice called from outside.
Chrysalis got up and opened the window on the side of the carriage. She spied to deer knight that had been posted to guard her. “Yes.”
“Your chocolate ma’am.” He held up a small bag. “Just like you asked for.”
Chrysalis smiled. If there was one thing changelings loved eating besides raw meat, it was chocolate. She grabbed the bag with her magic and brought it inside on the table. “It would be lovely if I could thank you to your face.” She referenced the full head mask he wore.
He hesitated. “If you insist ma’am.” The deer moved pulled the mask off with one of his hooves. Chrysalis had to stop herself from gasping. Her eyes widened. ‘He’s so handsome.’ Yes, she’d seen her share of handsome blokes, but it had been so long since she’d seen a deer that she almost forgot what they looked like. Their faces were angled and long with beautiful eyes that looked right into your soul. He had a black dew-drop shape mark around his left eyes. “Are you alright, ma’am?”
His remark broke her from her stupor. A little bit of drool had begun to leak out. She shook her head furiously. ‘Stupid! Get ahold of yourself.’ “I’m fine. It’s just been a long time since I’ve seen a buck’s face.”
“Really?” He quirked an eyebrow. “A mare that travels as much of you shouldn’t be too stunned by my features.”
“But they are such lovely features.” Chrysalis put her hooves under her chin and rested her elbows on the windowsill.
“Mommy,” She felt the filly poke her leg.
“Yes sweetie.” She didn’t look down.
“We have a tea party to finish, remember?”
“I’m in the middle of something.”
“But I want to finish our tea party.”
“Later.” She hissed back at her. _______________________________________________________________________________ Sugar Rush couldn't believe it. Her mommy was blowing her off. Blowing a tea party off as well just for some deer. Mommy never stopped a tea party before. Tea parties were special. You couldn't just stop one and even if you did, it should be because of a good reason.
Mommy didn't have a good reason. She just wanted to talk to the deer guy. And she was really mean about it. She even hissed. Mommy never hissed at her before…well maybe a few times in the last few weeks, but not before. She was always nice and considerate of her. Not now. She was being mean. Using magic on her, scolding her, telling her everything she does is wrong. She sniffed.‘What got into mommy?’
Then a stray thought popped into her mind.‘Maybe she doesn't love me anymore.’ She shook her head, backing up. ‘No, she loves me.’ A few tears welled up in her eyes.
Her mother suddenly stopped her conversation. She was cringing, acting as if she hurt all over. The grown mare cast a look over at Sugar and then to the deer guy. “Hey, would you like to join us? We’re having a delightful tea party.” Sugar’s eyes widened.
“I don’t want to intrude.” Said the deer guy.
“I insist.” She smiled.
The deer guy sighed. “Fine. I don’t have anything else to do anyways.”
“Perfect.” Her mother turned around, to which Sugar rushed up and hugged her. “Sweetie, did you really think I’d stop our little tea party?” Sugar was silent, to which her mother frowned. She stroked her mane with a hoof. “Don’t be sad. Please don’t be sad.” She pulled her into a hug.
Sugar smiled. ‘I was so silly. Of course mommy loves me. She’s just stressed is all.’
Unbeknownst to them, the red necklace she wore underneath her large, poufy dress stopped glowing. _________________________________________________________________________________ “Two hundred and seventy three.” The Black Knight yelled, dealing with another batch of Shadows. The group had gone by several streets, clearing up the dark creatures. With the one’s he just dispatched gone, the street was empty.
Tim harrumphed. “You may be ahead by thirteen, but there are undoubtedly more of those things about.”
“Then why do you waste time with chit-chat?” The Black Knight strode forth.
“I do not waste time.” Tim strode next to him. “A deer does not waste time. We leave that to ponies.”
“HA! If you are so much better than us, then explain to me this. Why do you live in the dark forest instead of taking the cities for your own?”
Tim scowled. “We do not need such luxuries.”
“Oh? With the way you go on about your race, I’d thought you’d delight in the most luxurious of things. A palace is what you deserve, is it not?”
The Black Knight smirked underneath his mask when he saw the deer seething. He knew that the deer had gone through some sort of past blight or something that made them what they were. They were very touchy about the subject. “YOU…” The venom seethed forth from his voice.
Giggling interrupted the two’s banter. The group started to look around. “You two are so funny. Are you guys’ comedians?” The voice seemed to be that of a young colt.
“No, we are warriors.” Tim shouted in response.
“I know. I saw you fight my Shadows. It was so cool.”
“Cool?” The Black Knight didn’t know what to make of that. ‘He is joyous about us slaying his minions?’ Instantly, he put himself back on guard. Obviously this being had a trick up its sleeve.
“Yup. Really cool.” A large ball of shadow appeared on the roof of a nearby house. It started to bulge and stretch. Quickly, it took the shape of a small colt. The colt in question, once the darkness dissipated, was wearing a black cloak. Nightmare Moon’s insignia was on the sides. The colt pulled back the hood. The Black Knight would guess that he was a few years older than Sugar. He had a dark blue coat and light purple mane. His small horn made him weary though. Even at a young age, Shadow magic users were dangerous. “I’ve never seen anyone fight like that before. I mean, you” He pointed to The Black Knight. “Just clobbered hundred with your bare hooves and that awesome sword. I wish I had a sword like that, but my mom says weapons are dangerous.”
“And shadow magic isn’t?” Tim asked. The Black Knight could tell he was getting annoyed.
“Of course it’s safe.” The child waved a hoof in the air. “Mom taught me everything I know.”
“Your mom taught you shadow magic?” Tim looked at him incredulously. The Black Knight snorted. ‘Of course she did. All member of her majesty’s realm do so.’
“Yeah, but enough about me. It’s time for the boss battle.”
“Boss battle?” Both the knight and deer said in unison.
“The boss battle. You’ve already dealt with all my minions so it’s time to face the big baddy.” The colt struck an epic pose. “Me.”
The knight and Tim face-hooved and groaned. “This isn’t a game, kid.” Tim said.
“Well you know what they say. YOLO!” The colt’s horn flared up a wall of blackened glass shot up from the ground, cutting off Tim and The Black Knight from the rest. “Sorry, only main characters are allowed.”
“Young boy, stop this or you’ll get the spanking of a life time.” Tim shook his hoof at him.
The colt laughed. “Seriously? You’re threatening me with spanking? What am I, four?”
“Stop this now and you won’t get hurt.” The Black Knight held his great sword at the ready. He would feel no remorse if he had to kill this whelp. ‘Wouldn’t be the first time.’
“Pfft, as if. Now before our little battle starts, how about I introduce myself.” The colt bows. “Shadow Games at your service.” The colt, after making his intro, fired a blast of shadow magic at the duo. They easily jumped out of the way, before the shadow bolt created a small crater in the ground. They’d have to be wary. Although the kid’s minions were weak, he wouldn’t be a total pushover. “So you know how to dodge. This’ll be interesting.”
In the blink of an eye, shadows formed around him forming a thing tendril. The tendril quickly shot forth to the ground some feet away from them. As before, it quickly dissipated. Shadow Games fired a bolt of magic at them, which again they dodged. The colt disappeared into his shadow tendril and moved around them. The Black Knight gritted his teeth. He’d seen this tactic used by other Warlocks. They would attack then retreat, making a strike against them hard to achieve. It was a simple plot, one utilized by beginners or one’s not magically inclined as other. At best they were annoying; at worst they could slay entire regiments.
And that’s what happened for the next few minutes. The colt would stop, shoot a magic bolt, then transform into the shadow tendril and move on. Not once had they gotten a hit on him. While the kid had gained some glancing blows. It didn’t affect the massive, armor clad pony, but Tim had a couple of bruises. It was clear the colt wasn’t aiming to kill. It was more on the lines of, as he put it, attempting some sort of K.O. ‘Whatever that means.’
All the while, his voice kept throwing insult after insult. “You’re too slow.” “Come on, hit me grandpa.” “I thought you guys were mighty warriors.”
Finally, the colt appeared between them and summoned a large black shadow bolt which smacked into Tim’s chest. He was sent flying straight into a wall. The colt gasped and took a step back. “HA! I so owned you right now.”
The Black Knight charged and nearly cleaved the colt’s head off with his sword. Luckily for Shadow Games, he disappeared into his shadow form. Appearing not far away, he tried to summon shadows to lift the knight. Black smoke whipped around him. The colt was strained in doing so. The knight smirked. His armor was resilient to all forms of magic and the colt’s power wasn’t great enough to do much to him, if anything at all. “Why…aren’t…you…floating?” The colt said, in between breaths.
“Because my armor was enchanted by the Lady of the Night herself to be resilient to magic.”
Shadow Games’ eyes widened. “What?”
The Black Knight quickly used this distraction, ran forth, and grabbed the unicorn colt by his horn. He yelped as he was lifted up into the air and tossed to the side. The colts tumbled along the ground until he hit the black wall of magic he had created. Trying to stand, The Black Knight saw he had collected a few bruises from the tumble. “You’ll pay for that.” Before he could use his dark magic, a spork flew right into the unicorn colt’s shin. Screaming in pain, he fell down clutching the utensil. With that the wall of black glass shattered, falling to the ground and becoming shadows once more.
The Black Knight looked over at Tim. He was walking towards him, brushing off his armor. “Nice throw.”
Tim smirked. “We deer have excellent aim.”
The Black Knight rolled his eyes behind his helmet. They then looked over at Shadow Games, who was surrounded by the rest of the deer soldiers. Each one was pointing a spear at him. The Black Knight strode forth through the group and looked down at the colt. He was crying, trying to get the spork out of him. The knight knelt down to which the colt tried to roll away. He stopped him and rolled him back so he could get a grip on the utensil and pull it out. The colt cried out on in pain.
“Stop crying whelp.”
“My mom’s going to make you pay.” Shadow Games hissed.
The Black Knight moved his face into the colts. The colt looked on in absolute terror. “Then I’ll make her dead.”
“No…you wouldn’t. She’s too awesome for you to…”
“Shut it, or I’ll split you with my sword.” That shut the little brat up. “Take him with us. Maybe we can get some information out of him.” _________________________________________________________________________________ With the town saved, the knights went back into the forest for Rove and her daughter. The group was silent all the way through, except for Shadow Games. He was whimpering, holding a hoof over his wound. They had put a little magic distiller ring over his horn so he couldn’t get away.
Once they got to the carriage, they all stopped.
The Black Knight looked shocked. “What the…”
“Buck.” Tim finished for him. He was a tad surprised the deer was using a pony term, but that wasn’t the biggest surprise right now.
What surprised them all was that Miss Rove, her daughter, and the Deer of Ni left to guard them were having a tea party. They were sitting all around a small table. The deer knight had taken off his helmet, revealing his face. Both Rove and Sugar Rush were wearing blue frou-frou dresses. He didn’t take Rove as the type for this kind of stuff.‘Well she is female.’
The tea partiers finally noticed the group. “Oh you’re all back?” Rove asked. “I thought the Shadows killed you and I’d have to make him take me home.” She nodded her head over to the knight.
“You aren’t that lucky, wench.” The Black Knight shot at her. Rove just glared at him.
“Wait a moment.” Tim spoke up. “You had a tea party without me?”
Chrysalis was taken aback by the deer’s outburst. Not only were her ears ringing, but yelling about a missed tea party confused her to no end. ‘Why are mortal races so strange?’ She wondered. Thinking on it, it was very out of character for deer to act in such a way. ‘It’s been over a thousand years since I’ve interacted with their race. I guess they’ve gotten dumber since then….A pity.’ She sighed. She remembered having quite a few intelligent conversations with their ancestors back in the day. Especially a certain Farseer.
She shook her head. ‘No. Don’t dwell on the past.’ That’s right. She had to dwell in the present….no matter how much it sucked. ‘Sucked. Such a strange twist on the word.’ She made a mental note to find out how it came to be used like that.
Before she could think up a clever insult, she heard the sound of a child whimpering. “Beg your pardon, but who is making that noise?”
"What noise?” Tim asked, before Chrysalis sent him a ‘really? You don’t hear that’ kind of look. “Oh, that noise.” He turned around. “Bring the whelp forth.”
Now most people would call her heartless, and they were right in a sense, but she still had a strong nurturing side. A trait that she bred the Nurse caste out of. It’s just that she didn’t show it much outside of her own species. When one of the deer strode forth with a crying little colt, she resisted the urge to tear the deer apart and hold him. The little pony was bleeding profusely from one his legs. The blood had soaked his dark blue fur and cloak. Droplets of the life giving liquid dripped onto the ground. His eyes were puffy and red, soaked with tears.
Sugar Rush gasped and rushed over to the deer’s side. “What happened?”
Chrysalis grit her teeth, glaring at the group. “They happened.”
“But mommy, they wouldn’t…”
“We did.” The Black Knight answered.
“And I’m sure you have such a lovely excuse for this barbarity.” Chrysalis spoke with heavy sarcasm.
“He was the one behind the attack on the town.” Tim snapped. “He deserved this and more.”
“Did anyone die?” Chrysalis asked.
“Well no.” Tim said. “But he caused considerable damage.”
“So damaging property is worthy of the death sentence?” Chrysalis growled. “Or do you just enjoy harming children?”
“I take pleasure in striking down evil.” Tim replied. He walked over and grabbed hold the colt’s hair, lifting up his head. The colt let out a squeal of pain. “And this boy qualifies as evil.”
He let go when he felt Sugar buck him in the leg. Even though she was just a little filly, she was still an earth pony. Her race had considerable power. The deer knight looked down at her. “Stop being a meanie pants.”
Chrysalis couldn’t help but smile.‘Awww, she’s sticking up for the colt…..Don’t aww! She’s a pony….Eh, I’ll aww if I want too.’
“Little filly, I ask you not to do that again.” Tim glared at her. “Or you will receive the spanking of a life time.”
“Do that to my charge and you’ll be wishing you hadn’t.” The Black Knight said, putting a hoof on the handle of his mighty blade.
“Are you threatening me, Knight of Darkness?” Tim tensed up. The rest of his knights followed suit.
“Maybe.” Was the Black Knight’s answer.
“Boys, boys, you’re both macho.” Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Before you have yourselves a little spat, think of the consequences. We already have one injured child to take care of. I don’t need the burden of more.”
“Did she just call us children?” Tim asked.
“Indeed, the wench just did.” The Black Knight chuckled when he saw Chrysalis angrily growl at him.
“I did and it’s true.” Chrysalis sent them a death glare. “You both are just overgrown children. And I’ll tell you another thing. If you as much as harm another hair upon that colt’s head, I’ll shred you innards and smash your skulls.” A small part of her reprimanded herself for defending the colt. But that was a useless endeavor. Changelings are incredibly nurturing. Her actions with Sugar actually were odd…Her glare fell from her face. Sugar Rush. The little filly who she was feeding off of. Yes, she had been protective of her, but she’d been so mean to her as well. She shook her head. ‘No. No bonding. Stop natural instincts. Just stop.’
She also knew why she was defending the colt so much. She could feel Sugar’s need to help and it was affecting her. Again, the changeling feeding method was a two way street. Her ‘victim’s’ feelings could be felt by her and since she had been with her a while, it was also starting to affect her. ‘Oh no. She’s going to turn me into a goody two shoes at this rate. Come on. Think of something you hate to upset this…Okay, Canterlot fiasco, Princess Luna…Yeah, I’m back.’
“Then you deal with the runt.” The Black Knight told her.
“What?” Chrysalis was a taken aback by the offer.
“Since you seem to care about his safety, it’s your duty to take care of him.” The Black Knight stated. “Tis only proper.”
Tim rubbed his chin. “Well you have a point.”
“But I don’t know how to treat him.” Chrysalis said, hoping to get out of it. Yes she had a nurturing side but she was not a medic.
“Of course you do, mommy.” Sugar Rush piped up. “You’re a great healer.”
Chrysalis sighed. She was caught. Denying Sugar wouldn’t work, since it would upset her, tip her off that something’s wrong, and look like she was obviously making up excuses to the others. “Alright, but you’re helping.”
“YAY!” Sugar cheered. She looked up to the colt. “You hear that. We’re going to make you better.” The colt just offered her a wary smile.
“Okay stop.” Tim grumbled. “Stop with the cutesy, lovey stuff. Just heal him and be done with it. I have to go talk with the mayor of the town about the damages.”
“Aww, can’t little Timmy wimmy handle some lovedy dovey stuff?” Chrysalis cooed earning a deep scowl from Tim. She smirked as he trotted away. Of course, she didn’t really pay attention to the other deer who threw the injured colt onto her back. “HEY! Don’t do that. He’ll stain my coat.”
“Wench just shut up and do your thing.” The Black Knight told her. She growled and walked off.
As she felt the blood seep down her coat, all her nurturing instincts left her. If there was one thing she prided herself on, it was her appearance. ‘Yeah it’s a disguise, but a queen should not be forced to endure this.' As she reached the caravan, she walked inside and promptly bumped him off. The unicorn colt fell to the ground and let out a cry of pain. “Oops.” She smirked.
Sugar Rush gasped and ran to him. “Are you okay?”
“No.” The colt said through his tears and sobs.
“Would it help if I rub salt into the wounds?” Chrysalis’s grin grew wider as she saw the colt flinch. ‘Sometimes I love being wicked.’
“N-n-no ma’am.” The colt squeaked out.
“A shame. It would have helped.” Chrysalis tapped her chin in thought. Surely that mare would have had medical supplies. ‘That bottomless bag might have something I can use.’ ___________________________________________________________________________ Tim looked at the town hall. It was simple, boring brick building. Twice as big as the others around it, but nothing really distinguishing about it. Well, except being brick instead of wood. ‘Fitting for ponies.’ He thought.‘They are such a simple race.’ Still, he had to deal with them and that is why he was here. He let out a long sigh. The deer decided to just get it over with. The sooner he talked to the primitive pony leader, the sooner he could get back to his own kind.
He knocked on the door. A rather well dressed butler stallion opened it. “Ah, the mayor has been expecting you.” The pony had a rather haughty attitude. “And do remember to clean your hooves off before you enter. The mayor would be upset if you brought too much of your 'forest' inside.”
Tim scowled. ‘The nerve of this pony. He should be in awe of my very presence, not treating me as if I was a common animal.’ He brushed past him. “Take me to him.”
“Right this way.” The butler lead him to his destination and knocked onto the office door.
“Who is it?” A much older voice asked.
“It is the deer, sir.” The butler answered. ‘THE DEER?’ Tim had half a mind to pierce his skull with his spear. He gave it a quick glance. ‘Later.’ He told himself.
“Send him in.” Was the reply. The butler opened the door for Tim.
Tim walked inside. While the rest of the building was so plain, the interior was so lavish. Imports from all over Equestria; fine china, golden tapestries, ancient paintings. He had no idea why ponies wanted to waste their time and resources acquiring such things for personal use.‘Greedy lot.’
“Like them?” The elderly voice reminded him that he wasn’t alone. “I spent a small fortune to acquire all this.” The pony sitting behind the wooden desk was old, not ancient, just old. He was a little over half way to the grave. ‘Not close enough if you ask me.’ The brown earth pony was wearing a white wig you’d see on a judge. His lavish, purple cloak hung loosely over his form. All in all, Tim could see why his predecessors hated dealing with pony leaders. “Please, take a seat.”
He indicated the pony sized chair in front of the desk. The deer knight would have thought this a joke, until he reminded himself he was dealing with a pony. They were rather stupid. Instead he just sat on the floor in front of the desk. He could still see eye to eye with the pony. “Now let us get down to business. The recent ‘astral’ attack, while being free of any casualties, has caused considerable damage to the town.”
“I noticed.” Tim’s deadpan demeanor reflected how much he cared.
“Yes, well, that is the problem. We simply don’t have the funds to repair the damage.”
Tim narrowed his eyes. “Are you suggesting we pay for the repairs?”
The mayor nodded. “Yes. You are our protectors and we are need of saving. So, if you can scrounge up about three thousand bits, we’d be most grateful.”
“Three thousand bits?”
“Oh and you need to help with the construction. A hundred or so hooves would do nicely.”
“Now see here….”
“And obviously we can cut back on some things; like buying wood. That’s unnecessary, seeing as we live in the middle of a forest.”
“Stop right…”
“So I’ll need you to cut down some trees.”
“Cut down our trees?!!”
“With the money saved, we can refurnish. You deer know how to refurnish?”
“ENOUGH!” Tim raised his spear and put the tip of it mere centimeters in front of the mayor’s face. Rather effectively shutting him up. “I’ve had it with listening to these ludicrous demands.”
“They aren’t…”
“Say another word and this spear goes through your bucking head.” Tim growled. “Now listen to me pony and listen good. My knights of Ni shall get you your funds. You will have your supplies. The rest you can do by yourself. Is that clear?” The mayor nodded. “No, I don’t think it’s clear. It’s obvious that you forgot that we ALLOW you to live in OUR woods. Your ancestors begged us to save their lives and we did. But remember that kindness won’t last forever. One day you could hear the word ‘NI’ outside your door. Do you want it to be this day?” The mayor furiously shook his head. Tim leant him a smile. “Good, good.” He stood up and lifted the spear from the mayor’s face. “We shall be back soon. An mayor…” He stopped in the doorway and looked back. “Do remember who the real masters of these woods are.” He left the building feeling happier then he thought he would. The only thing that could have made it any more sweet would have been the mayors’ death. Of course, he knew he couldn’t do that. He wasn’t a barbarian.
‘Three thousand bits.’ His thoughts returned to that tidbit. ‘How am I going to get that much?’ The council would never lend so much to the ponies. He wouldn’t blame them. Still, he didn’t want to go through the fuss of burning down a town he just saved. He need a way to pay off the damages. But how?.... “THE MAP!” He exclaimed. “The treasure map. That’ll clear things up.”
He took out the map from his side saddle and opened it up.‘Seems simple enough. Not far away too. I’m glad I thought about getting those ponies to find one. I honestly didn’t think they would….Oh dear.’ His irises shrank. “A dragon.”
The map depicted the treasure being guarded by a ferocious dragon. ‘Fan-bucking-tastic.’ Going after the treasure would surely put his knights at risk. He surely wasn’t going to sacrifice a single deer’s life for the ponies sake. ‘If only I knew someone who could get it for…’ He smirked. “I know just the ponies for the job.”
