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I don't know how to start stories like this... But i guess I should start with 'Once upon a time'

Once upon a time, there was a beautiful golden egg. It gleamed and stood at full attention on a pedestal waiting.

One day, a crack appeared in the egg. The creatures all gathered buzzing with excitement. More cracks appeared and then the top popped off. A black holed hoof reached out but no one dared to move. It was a ritual that everyone knew... If the foal could not break the egg on its own then it does not deserve to live. Eventually it will suffocate and die from the sticky green fluid.

Suddenly, tiny black hooves burst through the stiff material and a tiny foal rolled out. That foal was me, Queen Chrysalis of the North Equestrian Hive. I was a cocky grub straight from the egg, spitting acid at my maids, associating myself with ponies, and going on adventures in the garden.

And when I grew up with a philosophy shoved into my head...

That I needed to do everything in my power to protect them... Protect my hive...

I...did some things that I regret...

------

Sombra stood in front of her with a withering smile over the candlelit dinner. "I thought for sure your name was Crystal-is, my dear" He muttered under his breath.

Chrysalis mentally rolled her eyes "No" She sighed "Chrysalis. Like the cocoon of a bug"

Sombra chuckled "My apologies, It is just that... Your name is so unique and exquisite" He purred making Chrysalis mentally gag. "This marriage is temporary, Sombra" She gritted the name out "I don't expect much to come from it. Other than the freedom of my subjects"

"Our subjects" He corrected raising a hoof in opposition before sliding it up her arm.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes and looked out the window. Luna's moon admitted a soft glow which swallowed the crystals making them twinkle like fallen stars. Sombra stood behind Chrysalis with a lustful smile "I think it is time that you feed..." He whispered in a sweet husky voice as he trailed up her back with his lips "How about you...?"

Chrysalis shivered as her long hair was gently pulled by his hoof giving her a gentle guidance towards the bed. Chrysalis did not want to bed this stallion in the slightest but her subjects required this alliance to survive.

And as a Queen, She would always provide...

He trailed warm slobby kisses up her neck as she stood her ground. She was a Queen but He was not her King. It was an unrequited love from the beginning, only a political marriage.

Yet...She gave herself over for the good of her subjects.

For when, she did reject his love. He shunned her people and slowly went completely insane. Her first failure...

-----

Nobody knew of King Sombra before young Radiant Hope told the 2 pony sisters. But I did the worst damage, taking away his only way to cope... Taking myself away...

And he destroyed us both...

He destroyed my subjects...

Then he erased his kingdom...

-------

Sombra ran up to Chysalis similar to a puppy "Chrysalis! I got the slaves to make us edible crystals like in the Crystal Fair. I never got to try them bu-" Chrysalis ran away from him with a disgusted shiver as his fur grazed hers.

Sombra was struck with confusion "Chrysalis?" He called out running to her side. Chrysalis ran in front of him blocking him from going any further. "I can't pretend like this anymore Sombra." She said with a grim expression.

"I don't love you... I just pretended so that my subjects could get food... Now there's no food because your 'slaves' can no longer feel love" She explained "I'm tired of being a replacement for 'her'. Changing into her is degrading to myself and my people"

Sombra froze. If you didn't see his slowly moving chest, you'd think he was a statue.

-----

Chrysalis wasn't the kind of pony to sugar-coat things. She knew that she used him and he had used her but did her subjects, Her children, give her a good reason for playing and breaking his heart like a toy.

"It is a question, I still ask to this day... Is this not what I signed up for from birth..." A voice asked the darkness.
-------

Chrysalis slowly woke up on the cold ground of her empty room. "Where.... What happened here?" She questioned into the silence. The only thing that answered was her echo that whispered "Here. Here. Here" throughout the tunnels.

She rose to her hooves and grazed her bed with her fore-hoof. From her position she could see the night sky. It was brimming with stars. Stars that looked like they would fall into her hooves like the winter snow at any moment.

Her body reluctantly relaxed under the calming moonlight as she remembered what happened to her hive. They starved... All of them. She was alone.

She could hear the clanging hoofsteps of some animal making their way in. She rose to attention baring her fangs which gleamed in the moonlight. When the hoofsteps stopped, an alicorn stood in front of her with her face in a deep scowl. Raven black wings settled on her sides and slitted turquoise eyes stared into her emerald green orbs.

She was once strong enough to beat Celestia but, this alicorn's aura was much stronger. Almost suffocating her into submission. Chrysalis' hissing ceased immediately and was replaced with a apprehensive curiousity. The changeling queen wandered backed away and taking in her body.

She was like Princess Luna but her build was similar to Princess Celestia. Her muscles were quite intimidating up close. The queen assumed from earth pony magic. The alicorn watched her silently with her eyes but never moved.

Chrysalis, unfortunately, couldn't smell or taste any emotion from the mare that could sate her hunger. "Who are you?" She asked cautiously perking her ears in challenge. The alicorn didn't answer but instead pinned the changeling on her back which was surprisingly gentle showing her dominance. Chrysalis scowled as her horn glowed with a sickly green magic before connecting itself to the alicorn's horn.

The alicorn stared at her as she began writhing in pain from the attempt. Chrysalis felt like she was burning alive as the alicorn's mental barrier pushed magical backlash through her horn. "I expected better of you then to try and mind control me..." The alicorn sighed disappointedly.

Chrysalis let out a low whimper scampering from underneath the alicorn's legs like a foal. After a few seconds, the changeling queen reappeared with a bitter scowl on her face "You are stronger than I originally thought..." She sighed shaking her head.

"You may call me, Nightmare..." The alicorn yawned stretching as she made herself comfortable in the changeling's rather large bed. Chrysalis nodded slowly narrowing her eyes at this new acquaintance of hers. "Why are you here?" She questioned aggressively. Nightmare sighed "I should have known this question would come sooner or later..." She groans "I'm guessing you haven't seen the magical chains"

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow "Magical-" then she saw it. The long almost invisible chain connecting her and the alicorn. Chrysalis stared at it in dismay "What did you do?!" She spat. Nightmare stared at her unmoving "All I remember is being blasted by the elements, then waking up in the castle of the two sisters bleeding from my eyes. I had no injuries so I searched for a solution and found this" She motioned towards the chain.

Chrysalis went silent for a moment "So the elements created this." She muttered solemnly frowning. Nightmare gave her a quick nuzzle to cheer her up. Chrysalis, within that quick moment of contact, felt and absorbed many emotions.

"Better?" Nightmare asked looking at the changeling. Chrysalis nodded slowly trying to make sense of the mixed emotions. The black alicorn looked to the night sky with a longing look. Chrysalis watched silently thinking about the chain.

"What are we doing, now?" Chrysalis questioned Nightmare.

"We cannot stay here... Next moon rise, we shall go and seek out shelter with a friend of mine."

Chrysalis seemed mildly content with the answer as she curled up on the opposite side of the bed glaring at the alicorn. Nightmare quickly fell into a dreamless slumber ignoring Chrysalis. The changeling queen laid awake as the
moon seemed to glare at her. She couldn't help but feel uncomfortable. Eventually, exhaustion caught up to her and she fell peacefully into the dreamscape.

-----

Nightmare was the first to awaken. Her eyes slowly opened from the darkness and was filled with golden light from the sunset. The alicorn hissed and covered her eyes with a hoof. After a few awkward moments, her eyes eventually adapted to the change in lighting.

Her eyes eventually drifted to the lump of chitin and fur that was calmly resting. Her mind flicked towards the 'window' and saw the sun slowly going down. 'A few more minutes' She thought to herself.

----

After a few minutes, the moon began its path across the sky. "Queen of Changelings, it is time to awaken." The alicorn called nudging her with a hoof. Chrysalis' left ear twitched slightly, her right leg following suit before she let out a groan. Her jade colored eyes opened slightly as she rolled onto her hooves.

"Good Morning..." She whispered tumbling over into the wall before letting out a series of curses. Nightmare flinched as she fell to the floor with a dull thud. "Good afternoon, Queen of Changelings" She replied. Chrysalis stood up quickly as the last bits of sleep exited her body.

"I'm not a morning pony" Chrysalis grumbled.

"But... It isn't morning"

"Tomato, Patato"

Nightmare opened her mouth to correct her but closed it with a solemn shake of her head. Chrysalis walked out of the tunnels followed by the alicorn. The trees were aligned with silver moonlight giving the forest a mystical vibe.

"Where are we heading" Chrysalis questioned distrustingly.

Nightmare however, was busy with her muzzle to the ground as she nibbled at the grass.

"Come on, what are you a horse..." Chrysalis paused for a second remembering something "On second thought, don't answer that"

Nightmare looked at her smugly "No but we all carry similar ancestors" She lectured giving her a smile.

"And she answered anyway" Chrysalis moaned dramatically.

Nightmare chuckled before walking in front of Chrysalis "Follow me..." she then began into the forest. Chrysalis followed silently by her side allowing her lavender colored mane to catch her attention.

"Why don't you have a ethereal flowing mane like all powerful Princess Celestia?" Chrysalis questioned with a slightly mocking tone.

Nightmare thought for a second "I assume I'm just low on magic power" She replied allowing the mocking to roll of her chest. Chrysalis nodded hesitantly glaring, she still didn't trust this mysterious alicorn that claimed to be her ally.

"So this friend of yours... Are they an alicorn?"

Nightmare shook her head "Zebra-Unicorn hybrid"

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow "Those exist?"

"Rare but yes they do. They are also great potion makers"

Chrysalis didn't question anymore as the path grew steeper. The changeling quickly slipped on the smooth rocks and fell. The queen froze up preparing for an impact that never came. Her eyes slowly opened to see that she was floating just slightly above the ground surrounded by a silver-cerulean aura.

She unclenched and let her hooves steady themselves of the ground as the aura disappeared. "Thank you" She muttered looking away from the alicorn. The winged unicorn just gave a soft hum in response continuing her journey. Chrysalis ran to keep up with her. The last thing she needed was to die because she got too far away from her. She could remember what she read about magical chains in her textbook.

~Magical chains

A shared magic link between two beings that grows stronger as time goes on. If the beings wander too far from each other, they can experience bleeding, pain, and eventually death from magical deprivation. Their souls are connected on a magical level and the chains are extremely difficult to break without a powerful mage~

Chrysalis sighed as she focused on following this alicorn through the Everfree. The moon was high in the sky as the two stumbled upon on cave. Nightmare boldly walked in and checked around "It's safe" She announced after a few minutes. Chrysalis quickly sat down inside the cave as Nightmare started a magical fire.

"How much longer"

"It didn't take me that long to get to your hive. But you are weak and starving. Perhaps... you would like a fish?"

Chrysalis growled curling up along the side of the cave "Shut up. I don't need anything, just stay away from me"

Nightmare fell silent curling up by her magical blue flames. There was a long pause. "You don't have to pretend that you are fine..." She commented.

Chrysalis ignored her and closed her eyes willing herself to fall asleep.

-----

The next moon rise, the two mares crawled out of cave well rested. Chrysalis followed Nightmare silently for hours watching as the moon was covered by dark clouds before starting to pour rain. The changeling swore that the world had something against her as her mane got soaked.

Suddenly, the raindrops stopped completely making the changeling look up to see black feathers with a membranous tip sheltering her from the raging storm. The alicorn's lavender mane was soaked and stucked her face as she shielded herself with her free wing.

It didn't help with the wind that nipped at both of them. Chrysalis shivered unconsciously walking cover to the furry mare. They stopped and sat by a tree as the rain showed no signs of letting up.

Nightmare wrapped a wing around Chrysalis. The changeling attempted to move away but was held in place by the strong appendage. "Why?"

"I don't need you getting sick. You're obviously cold and your teeth are chattering"

Chrysalis cursed her body for the unconscious instinct as she was forced to relax in the alicorn's feathery wing.

There was then a pregnant pause that gave birth to many small pauses.

Lightning crackled within the clouds as the thunder boomed.

"Thank you..." Chrysalis whispered more warmly snuggling into the wing. Nightmare gave her a small barely noticeable smile.

----

After the final raindrops hit the ground, Nightmare looked to the sleeping changeling in her wing. Nightmare watched Chrysalis protectively as the changeling's soft almost innocent breathes grazed her ears. She felt guilty having to interrupt her slumber. The alicorn began to nudge her with her free wing and muzzle.

"Hmmm" Chrysalis grumbled and began to open her eyes. The changeling then shot up making the alicorn jump in surprise.

"Oh... It's you" The changeling gasped.

Nightmare nodded and the two mares resumed their journey eventually taking a break in an open clearing. The lake water was crystal clear reflecting sunlight back at them. The dark alicorn walked ahead of companion seeming to be waiting for something.

The overbearing build. The horn. The wings. It reminded Chrysalis of that moment...

----

Light flashed from behind her behind her. A mix of pink and blue merging into a bright purple before all she felt was weightlessness.

Then came the pain....

Hundreds of lives gone in an instant...and that was just the beginning
---

She leaned her head on the side of the tree and began to bawl as quietly as she could allowing grief to consume her.

Nightmare rose to attention walking towards the changeling. Her stance was apprehensive which confused the changeling then she realized. Her entire body was shaking violently and her cheeks were freezing.

"I'm sorry... I just-"

Nightmare shook her head with the slight caress of her wing breaking down the changeling queen's walls.

Only slightly....

"Nightmare.... Is that you?"

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A short white unicorn mare crept out of the trees "It is you!" She exclaimed running towards the alicorn and pulling her hoof into a tight embrace. She had faint freckles and brown stripes all over her body with a curly brown mane.

The mare looked to Chrysalis allowing the changeling a glance at her unnatural eyes. The pupils were star shaped and her iris was a gorgeous golden amber color. Nightmare gave her a nod "I have returned, North Star" She assured.

The mare gave her glare "I should kick your flank back to the moon!" She snarled "How could you just leave! No note! No anything!"

Nightmare looked genuinely nervous "It was a split second decision. I wasn't thinking, Forgive me" She pleaded with North Star.

Chrysalis chuckled at the exchange wiping her tears as they argued back and forth. The two snapped their heads towards her. North Star narrowed her eyes at Nightmare "I don't approve of you bringing your marefriend into my house"

Nightmare and Chrysalis choked on spit as their attention was captured by this bold little mare.

"Marefriend!"

"North Star!"

The two exclaimed at the same time making the mare grin sadistically. "You didn't say no..." She said in a sing-song voice effectively shutting the mares up.

"NO!" They yelled attempting to make up for the lack of disagreement.

The mare chuckled and walked away followed reluctantly by Nightmare and Chrysalis. "You are an interesting filly" The changeling commented making the mare glare a her.

"I'm 26 years old!"

"How was I suppose to know? Not my fault, you're bite-sized"

"TAKE THAT BACK YOU.... YOU...." The mare screamed out in frustration making Chrysalis smirk. Nightmare just shook her head with a slight sliver of amusement gleaming in her eyes "Come on, Chrysalis... Talking about a young mare's height. For shame" She chuckled giving North a sympathetic smile.

The changeling and the unicorn continued their back and forth bickering until they happened upon a small wooden cottage under a tree. "Welcome to my humble abode" North said opening the door.

The house was very warm in the inside much to Chrysalis' tastes as she sat on her couch. Nightmare respectfully took off her metal hoof guards and helmet before joining Chrysalis on the couch.

"So how did you meet?" Chrysalis asked taking in this new side of Nightmare.

"Well... She found me in the Castle of the Two Sisters and let me live here"

"That's it?"

"Pretty much."

Chrysalis fell silent after that. After a few moments of awkward silence, North walked into the room. "Trouble in paradise?" She asked smugly. Nightmare rolled her eyes "Really..."

Chrysalis snickered at her reaction. "You're not that bad, Chrysalis" North said with a smile. Chrysalis smiled back "Neither are you little filly"

Nightmare snorted as North's glare doubled in intensity.

"Anyway, I made food" North grumbled walking into the kitchen and bringing out 3 bowls with her magic. Chrysalis raised the spoon with her magic and brought the contents of the bowl to her lips. Nightmare smiled at her "Delicious as always, North" She praised making the mare blush and look to Chrysalis.

"It's good" Chrysalis praised with a small smile.

North smiled doing a little dance in victory "It's a new recipe of potato stew with daisy leaves and bit of drenched lettuce leaves" She explained.

Nightmare nodded silently thinking about the ingredients "Interesting combination" She whispered. Chrysalis nodded in agreement. "Hey North. What is your special talent" She said looking at her cutie-mark which was just an arrow pointing up.

"I can point anyone in the right direction whether it's an actual direction or just advice. I actually can't control my special talent like most ponies, it just happens at random" She said sheepishly. Chrysalis nodded slowly taking in this information.

"So like when you point them in the right direction.... Wow, your cutie-mark is confusing" Chrysalis stated holding her head. North laughed "I agree. I can tell ponies what direction to go or just how to work out relationship issues. Whatever is plaguing them at the moment" She said getting up and walking to the kitchen to make some tea.

Nightmare finally put down her empty bowl "Her cutie-mark can be a bit iffy" She said with a knowing smile "And just because her cutie-mark points you in that direction doesn't mean it will be what you end out with."

Chrysalis nodded in thought adding that to her mental pile of information. North returned with 3 cups of tea passing them to their respective owners. Nightmare sipped hers silently letting out a small hum of appreciation.

"She seems more like the type to be reading a book while chatting with nobles" Chrysalis whispered to North.

"I mean she was a princess from what I've heard" She whispered back. Nightmare's ears twitched slightly towards them but soon returned to their original positions.

Chrysalis nodded taking the new information into consideration. She really didn't know anything about Nightmare besides her name but it felt as if they've been best friends for months already. 'Friends' the changeling mentally scoffed at the idea 'It would be nice...'. Chrysalis glanced up at the alicorn catching her attention.

"What's wrong?" Nightmare questioned.

Chrysalis shook her head quickly "Just thinking about... Stuff" She muttered.

"I assume that I'm apart of this 'stuff' that you're thinking about"

Chrysalis nodded slowly taking a huge gulp of tea. North looked back and forth between the two and nudged Chrysalis "You won't get anywhere by keeping silent. She's quiet so talk to her." She whispered in her ear. Chrysalis opened her mouth in opposition but closed it as she realized the mare was right.

"I was just wondering if we are friends"

"I'd like to think of you as a companion, yes but that is up to you"

"I... Just realized I don't know much about you"

Nightmare placed her tea cup on the coffee table and looked at her "What do you wish to know" She asked.

Chrysalis began to mentally scream at herself for bringing it up. Her eyes darted around like a cornered animal only to be consoled by a gentle striped hoof on her back. Chrysalis struggled for a conversation topic as her eyes suddenly landed on the tea cup.

"What kind of tea do you like?"

"I prefer tea leaves from a Night Berry tree. They have quite the cooling capabilities similar to mint but a sweet scent and flavor. You?"

"I guess, I would have to say Oolong. I grew up with it but I don't know many other tea types"

North sat awkwardly as they began an intense conversation about Oolong tea. North could only keep up with so much since they were way older but she had her occasional inputs.

After a while, Chrysalis let out a small yawn and rubbed her eyes with a hoof. "I believe it is time for all of us to sleep" Nightmare suggested grabbing the tea cups and setting them in the kitchen with her magic. North stretched as she stood up "I've never had such an intense tea conversation in my life" She groaned.

Nightmare chuckled straightening up the couch before walking outside "I'll be back" She called to North who hummed in response. Chrysalis' ears twitched as the door closed. 'This can be your chance to learn about Nightmare' She thought to herself as she snuck out after her.

The moon was still in the sky beginning to set after a long night. Chrysalis looked all over but found no sign of the familiar black alicorn. The changeling huffed and began walking back when she caught sight of the river and what she found was breathtaking.

Nightmare was absolutely glowing with moonlight as her lavender mane glimmered with dim stars. She was like an elegant black swan as she spread her wings and began preening them. Chrysalis could feel her face heating up at the sight for some reason.

Chrysalis began to step closer and unknowingly startled a bird making the alicorn's sapphire eyes snap towards her.

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Chrysalis was frozen like a deer in headlights as Nightmare stared into her glowing jade colored eyes. "You look... really pretty in the moonlight" She said awkwardly as she stepped out from behind the tree.

"Thank you..." Nightmare replied returning to her preening as if the changeling wasn't there.

"You aren't mad?"

Nightmare shook her head "A bit startled but fine. You are a friend after all" She assured.

Chrysalis nodded stepping into the water hesitantly. The sun began to rise as the two of them stood silently in the water. The fish were swimming circles around each other in a dance of sorts. The alicorn's face hardened into a scowl. The regret and anger invaded Chrysalis' senses.

"Nightmare..." Chrysalis whispered as she walked towards her. The alicorn looked at her with a blank stare.

"You don't like the sun..."

Nightmare chuckled dryly "Was it that obvious."

Chrysalis shook her head "Quite the opposite. You're so reserved and quiet that I can't figure out how you work."

Nightmare's scowl returned followed by a thoughtful look.

The changeling queen watched the sun climb higher into the sky. It wasn't as pretty as it once was now that she'd found something more beautiful. 'Wait!' She mentally screamed blushing 'Where did that thought come from. We're friends. F-R-I-E-N-D-S." She spelled out for her mind to comprehend.

Nightmare turned to Chrysalis "Let's rest for the day" She said stepping out of the river. Chrysalis followed her example as she stepped out the river and buzzed any water from her wings.

The two walked back to the wood cabin and fell asleep on the couch without saying a word to each other.

---

The next day, Chrysalis followed North to her garden. It was gorgeous, and suprisingly organized. There was many different flowers and vegetables growing.

"It may look like a lot but..." North grunted shoveling up some dirt "It isn't very much. I still need to go into town and buy things like seeds sometimes"

Chrysalis nodded and watched as a bee dutifully landed on a violet flower soaking up the pollen and moving to the next. "It's very peaceful here." She commented.

North smiled "I like to think so. Nightmare is nocturnal so she never gets to see all of the beautiful colors"

Chrysalis let out a small 'oh' as she calmly watched the bee bounce from flower to flower.

"I think Nightmare likes you"

Chrysalis' face flushed with warmth "You think so?"

"Not in that way... yet. But, she can be really despondent. It worries me sometimes but now that she has you, I can see that she can make friends"

"You don't care that Nightmare was evil" She said remembering what the unicorn said last night.

North shook her head "I can see good in her. Everypony shows sadness in different ways but even I thought banishing her to the moon was harsh. But 1000 years! That was overkill."

Chrysalis silently listened as the young mare talked more of her thoughts.

"Did you know that she originally wasn't supposed to come back?"

Chrysalis' eyes widened. An eternity on the moon... Alicorns can't die from natural causes so she would just spend forever in solitary confinement. Chrysalis scowled a bit.

"Exactly! I personally think Princess Celestia is overrated. I mean she doesn't protect anything, she might as well just be the national secretary because all she does is paperwork."

Chrysalis chuckled grabbing the watering can and watering the endless amount of plants.

North and Chrysalis were then plunged into a pleasant slience as the birds filled with their own beautiful songs.

"The Everfree can be beautiful"

North smirked "I believe you can't find the ugly in anything without finding some beauty in it as well"

"Wise words, Little Filly"

North rolled her eyes getting used to the nickname. "Come help me pick these lilies before I smack your flank off, Bug Mom"

Chrysalis genuinely smiled at the nickname as she followed the unicorn to the lilies. They were white with a gradient pink center.

"I honestly would feel bad for eating it" Chrysalis commented.

"Same. But they taste really sweet and crunchy in salads"

Chrysalis grabbed the ripened flower with her magic as the unicorn looked on nodding in approval. Chrysalis took a bite and her mouth exploded with sweetness. The changeling cringed "I think I just bit into a bag of sugar"

North pretended to think "No I'm preeetty sure you just bit into a lily"

Chrysalis shot her a glare making the mare giggle.

"It's too sweet for me" The changeling said giving the mare the flower to which North nonchalantly took a bite out of. Chrysalis gagged as she moaned dramatically.

"It's soooooo gooooood"

"North..."

The mare let out a squee before looking at the changeling "What?"

Chrysalis pointed to a group of lilies that were wilting. The unicorn rushed over to them and investigated their leaves.

"I think it's a disease" The unicorn muttered.

"Plants get those?"

North rolled her eyes "Of course. All living things can get diseases"

Chrysalis looked at the leaves which were turning white and brown at the edges "What are you going to do?"

The unicorn didn't answer as her horn was enveloped in a orange aura and began to glow.

"I casted a spell to keep it from spreading. I'll leave them... for now" North said hesitantly backing away "I think we're done with the garden for now"

Chrysalis nodded and followed the unicorn back to the cottage. Nightmare was sound asleep on the couch without a care in the world. North grabbed a notebook from the shelf and turned to Chrysalis "Stay here."

The changeling nodded as she closed the door. The shelf was filled with notebooks. Chrysalis grabbed one and began to read.

_____________

Dear Journal,

The alicorn woke up today, she seemed distant and anxious at first but after a while she calmed down. She said her name was 'Nightmare'. Kinda sinister if you ask me but it kinda fit her in a strange sort of way.

The midnight roses began budding this evening after 2 months of waiting. I think it's because of Nightmare but that's just my theory. The lilies began to wilt, again. I swear this happens every time I plant them. It's so annoying.

I think it's the Everfree. But then again, another one of my theories.

North
_______

Chrysalis nodded as she replaced the journal back on the shelf and sat next to Nightmare. She was bored. The mare next to her was breathing so softly that she could barely hear it. She could feel her curiosity get the better of her as she leaned in to get a better look.

The alicorn was so peaceful that Chrysalis found herself laying on her back as she watched the mare sleep. 'Like this isn't creepy at all' The changeling thought as her eyes grew heavy and she fell into a dreamless yet peaceful slumber.

------

When Chrysalis woke up again, she found on a soft pillow like object making let out a small purr. Her hooves pulled it closer and her muzzle snuggled deeper into it. She then felt something warm like a blanket envelope her.

It made her feel like a grub, again...

The changeling was completely comfortable until she cracked open her eyes and saw seafoam orbs looking back at her.

Chrysalis screamed scrambling off of Nightmare "What was that..."

"I was just being a good friend."

"Friends don't do that" Chrysalis hissed narrowing her eyes.

"We are friends and we just did that"

"That's- Ugh! I'm the last pony that should be saying this but it's inappropriate"

Nightmare tilted her head adorably. "I don't understand what's so inappropriate about it. We're two mares sleeping with each other"

Chrysalis' face burned with embarrassment. She swore somewhere the world was laughing at her. "Nightmare- Oh my Moon!" Chrysalis' hoof met her face so hard that it could be heard throughout the room.

----

Chrysalis took a few minutes to explain why the situation was inappropriate. Nightmare's face then became a deep crimson color. The two sat in an uncomfortable silence.

North came back and looked between the two mares "What did I miss?"

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*1 week later*

It was Cleaning Day, well Night in North's cottage.

Nightmare used her magic to clean the carpets and the furniture. Chrysalis was washing dishes and North was picking ripe fruit, vegetables, and flowers for dinner.

"Hey! Pass me the plate, Nightmare" Chrysalis called pointing to the plate that was on the dining room table. The plate was surrounded in a faint cerulean aura as it floated into Chrysalis' hooves "Thanks"

Nightmare hummed a response and began dusting the selves. Her thoughts drifting to Chrysalis in the pink frilly apron as she reared on her hind legs to get the top shelf.

"Do you need that apron?"

Chrysalis stopped moving for a second turning to the alicorn "What's wrong with it? I think it's fine on me"

"It's not that... It's just that it seems unnecessary"

"North gave it to me besides..." Nightmare suddenly felt a hoof on her side "I have a feeling that a certain alicorn secretly enjoys it" Chrysalis teased sticking her forked tongue out.

Nightmare let out a breathy laugh shaking her head "Whatever you say..."

Chrysalis snickered walking back into the kitchen to finish her job. The bounce in the changeling's hoovesteps made Nightmare smile. She was finally opening up completely to them instead of shielding herself behind this royal persona.

The door burst open followed by a basket the size of North's entire body. North herself followed the basket as she placed it down with a huff.

"My Moon! That's a ton of food"

North winked at her "I got everything from Apples to Tulips"

Nightmare's mouth gaped at the spread "Tonight, We shall feast!" She declared followed by exclamations from the other mares in approval.

-----

And feast the mares did...

They had a wide variety of salads, soups, and sandwiches to satisfy themselves with. North even opened up a large wine bottle that she got as a gift.

"So Never have I ever.... had a poster on my wall" Chrysalis slurred.

Nightmare watched as North took a sip of wine. The unicorn looked up and shrugged "It was good band. You royals are just boring"

Chrysalis and Nightmare shook their heads at her.

"Never have I ever... kissed a mare"

Chrysalis took a sip of wine making the other mares stare at her in a drunken awe.

Nightmare twisted her cup in her magical aura "Never have I ever.... dated a bad colt"

Chrysalis and North both took sips and burst out laughing.

"You dated a bad colt! Oh, I have to hear this" Chrysalis slurred suddenly interested in this story.

"Ok! Story time! I dated this foal from my class in middle classes. He used to steal things and give them to me like chocolate bars and stuff. He got in trouble and moved away. Never saw him again"

"That is oddly heartwarming despite the criminal activities of the colt" Nightmare whispered gazing into space for a second.

"What about you Chrysalis. Who's your bad colt?"

Chrysalis' smile faltered a bit "He was a criminal just like yours but on a bigger scale. He.... turned an entire race into slaves. I didn't date him per say, I married him"

North sipped her wine "Ex-husband. I see... he sounds like a bad dude"

"True..." Nightmare didn't say much after that.

After about an hour, the game got boring and North decided to pack up what was left of the wine. Chrysalis helped her clean the mess and the mare stumbled up to her bedroom.

"Goodnight!" The two exclaimed at the same time followed by drunken giggles.

Chrysalis laid on her couch and stared at the black ball of fur that was Nightmare. She couldn't help but feel like the mare was upset with her for some reason.

Chrysalis sighed and drifted off to sleep.

-----

That next afternoon, North nudged Nightmare and Chrysalis making them both groan at their interupted slumber and hangover. "I need a favor since you're living in my house" She grumbled holding her head. Chrysalis waved a hoof pulling the blanket over her head. North swiped the blanket from her grip with her orange magic "You too, Bug Flank"

"At least I have a flank" Chrysalis grumbled turning away from the irksome light that made her head pound. North's face grew hot as she looked at her flank "It's perfectly average, I'll have you know" She said observing her average flank.

Nightmare mumbled under her breath as she arose from her couch "What is our task" She yawned. North perked up "Ah yes! I need you to do some shopping for me in Ponyville. I plan to make something of great importance" She explained levitating a bag of bits and a shopping list around Nightmare's neck.

Nightmare grumbled walking out without a word. Chrysalis, however, was busy falling back into her slumber.

"CHRYSALIS!!!"

Nightmare winced as she heard a crash and screaming before the changeling queen was pushed out of the door. Chrysalis huffed "I swear... She has a colorful vocabulary and a loud voice" She complained unable to come up with a decent insult because of her pounding headache. Nightmare gave her a weak laugh focusing her magic in her horn.

Her entire form was engulfed in a silver glow before a black unicorn stood in front of Chrysalis with average ocean blue eyes. "I see.." She whispered before green flames enveloped her and she stood as a lime green pegasus with a forest green mane.

Nightmare nodded in approval before walking into the trees to be quickly followed by Chrysalis. The disguised alicorn and changeling queen trotted side by side through the trees in silence. For 3 hours...

'Ok, this is just awkward' She thought bitterly "Nightmare..."

"Hmm.."

"About yesterday...or yesternight, is that a thing"

Nightmare stopped and looked at her "What about it?"

"You seem a lot more distant. Did I upset you?"

Nightmare shook her head "Just thinking... I can't remember..."

Chrysalis didn't believe that but she didn't show it. The changeling gave her a stiff nod and continued walking.

Soon, they walked into town and instantaneously they were greeted by a pink earth pony mare jumping on Chrysalis' back.

"Hiya!"

Chrysalis jumped "Who are you? Where did you come from?" She yelped. Nightmare on the other hoof didn't even flinch as she stared at the pink mare.

"I'm Pinkie Pie! I came here from Sugar Cube Corner! WELCOME TO PONYVILLE!!!" She exclaimed

"Pinkie! Oh there you are!" A orange earth pony called walking over to the 3 ponies with baskets full of Apples. Pinkie's smile grew as she jumped from Chrysalis to the orange earth pony.

"Ah apologize for her. She's kinda attracted to the new ponies that come to town. Don't be surprised if you walk into a suprise party" She said in a southern accent. Pinkie pouted "AppleJack, you ruined the suprise. Time for extreme measures" She then disappeared into thin air.

Nightmare's eyes widened a bit. Chrysalis facehoofed "We were just trying to go shopping" She groaned wishing for her comfortable couch. AppleJack chuckled "Ah can help ya find your way around if you need it" She offered. Nightmare nodded grabbing the list with her magic "Do you know where we can get seed from a magic rose" She asked.

AppleJack thought for a moment "Ya might wanna ask Roseluck. Follow me" She advised walked into town. Chrysalis looked to Nightmare and shrugged before following her. The 3 ponies walked into town to see many bustling ponies making their daily commutes.

"Roseluck!" AppleJack called to a scarlet maned mare watering some lilies.

"Oh! Good afternoon, AppleJack" She called back

"These mare," She motioned towards Nightmare and Chrysalis "Were wondering about magic rose seed"

Roseluck perked up "Oh yes, follow me" She asked quickly walking into the endless flowers. Nightmare and Chrysalis followed waving goodbye to AppleJack. Roseluck looked through the flower seed labels before she grabbed one in particular "Magic Roses, they tend to grow in damp shaded environments. They are quite common and if you plant 1 you can grow a whole field-" She froze when she looked at Chrysalis who was about to fall asleep standing up.

Nightmare turned towards her and nudged her with a hoof making the mare squeal as she fell over. "I'm sorry, Miss. Roseluck but me and my companion haven't had a lot of sleep." She confessed. Chrysalis threw her a glare as the earth pony nodded "Oh, that's alright. That will be 3 bits, I guess" She said slightly disheartened.

Nightmare gave her the exact amount of bits and put the seeds into the bit bag. Chrysalis and Nightmare walked away briskly to the town statue. "That mare loves her job too much" Chrysalis commented making Nightmare sigh.

"You can be really insensitive" Nightmare whispered to the changeling.

Chrysalis gave her a look before rolling her eyes "I was taught that way" She murmured thinking about her hive.

Nightmare looked to her and saw a far off look in the changeling's eyes. The two became silent as the conversations of other ponies filled the silence.

After a while, Nightmare turned towards her. "C-" Nightmare froze as she saw tears in the changeling's eyes. Chrysalis wiped them away as quickly as they came "Let's finish the list, so we can go back" She muttered under her breath walking away. Nightmare watched her before following after the disguised changeling.

"We need various foods" She called to Chrysalis who nodded without turning around.

---

After Chrysalis walked away from the alicorn. Her heart throbbed with an insatiable need to mourn. All these ponies... She was taught to hate them but this alicorn was blasting through her emotional defenses.

Did she love her? No, they were friends.

Chrysalis choked as sob after sob burst its way from her throat. She was crying for so many years of abuse that was so long ago. She was crying from the absolute neglect of her children by Celestia based on a foolish betrayal. She was crying for the death of all of her children from various causes.

'All because of the alicorns' A small voice whispered from deep within her

Chrysalis hiccupped 'The alicorns did this to me. To my children' She thought. That fact brought a rage into Chrysalis' chest. The alicorns had hurt her.

'Don't you just want the alicorn to suffer' The tiny voice whispered.

Chrysalis' eyes widened as she thought of Nightmare dying by her hoof. 'No.' She replied curling up. Her head hurt badly like it was going to explode.

Pain.

'No.'

Stress.

'No!'

Struggle.

'N-No- Ahhh!'

Numbness.

'...'

Chrysalis wiped her tears. She was a queen. She was born for the sake for her children. The alicorns were her enemy.

Her eyes glowing a bright vivid blue.

---

Nightmare looked to see AppleJack talking with a cyan pegasus as she sold her apples.

"AppleJack!" Nightmare called walking over to her stand.

"Oh, I forgot your name..."

"I never told you, I apologize. I'm Night Tide" She said coming up with a name on the spot.

"Didn't ya have a friend?"

Nightmare nodded "Summer Grass is going through some things, right now and wants space"

AppleJack nodded "This is my friend, Rainbow Dash"

The cyan pegasus smirked "The fastest flyer in Equestria!" She exclaimed proudly. Nightmare chuckled "It's a pleasure..."

Rainbow smiled holding out her hoof to which Nightmare bumped with her own. AppleJack smiled at the exchange as 'Summer Grass' walked up with a bag of various fruits and vegetables.

Nightmare raised an eyebrow wondering how she paid for the items when she didn't have the bit bag but dropped it soon after. "Hello..." She whispered looking away from Nightmare.

"Ya alright, Sugarcube" AppleJack questioned laying a hoof on her back. 'Summer' nodded and pulled at Nightmare's mane "It's getting late... I want to leave" She demanded in a low voice.

Nightmare looked at the setting sun and began to walk away when AppleJack laid a hoof on her shoulder. "Ya shouldn't walk through the Everfree at night" She advised. "Yea, you could get attacked" Rainbow Dash agreed as the moon began to rise and bathe the town in its silvery glow. Chrysalis glared at them "We will be fine" She insisted walking away.

Nightmare gave them sympathetic looks before running after her "Are you alright?" She questioned her. Chrysalis sneered at the disguised alicorn "Am I alright? Is that your question? Am I bucking alright?" She snarled as tears rolled down her cheeks.

"C-"

"SHUT UP!"

Nightmare fell silent giving the mare a pleading look wondering why she was acting this way. She was fine earlier...

Chrysalis began shaking "You.... You are against everything I stand for... I am insulting my childrens' death by hanging around with you" She pushed Nightmare away. Her mind was filled with scene after scene of her dead children.

Chrysalis shook her head "Your kind are responsible for my childrens' death" She hissed holding her hooves to her chest as she fell to the ground sobbing.

Nightmare attempted to embrace her but was pushed away. Chrysalis gave her a malicious glare before turning away.

"I..." The alicorn started "I didn't kill your children! So don't punish me for the fault of my own enemies!!!" She screamed at her before walking away. She was confused and hurt by the changeling's accusations. Chrysalis' eyes widened as she watched her.

The changeling didn't want her to go. Why did she accuse her of something she had no part in. She didn't know... She found herself breathless trying to get air into her lungs. Chrysalis stood up on her shaky hooves and ran into the Everfree. She was a insensitive heartless monster... How could she say that to her friend. Her only friend...

Nightmare's heart throbbed with a familiar dull ache. She was becoming numb again like she was one thousand years ago. The alicorn felt so empty and alone but didn't know who to turn to...

5

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Chrysalis ran through the Everfree away from everypony. She didn't know where she was going or why she was going this particular direction. Trees rushed pasted her until she fell to the ground crying out in pain. The fall had knocked the air from her lungs and a branch stabbed through her wing.

Her vision hazed over dulling the excruciating pain.

She could hear the hive mothers' voices so clearly now. Yelling at her.

(Flashback)

Young Chrysalis crawled happily through the tunnels as she returned from the town nearby. Her heart pounded with fear and excitement as she snuck back into her room with her Hearthwarming present from her friend. She opened it to see a teddy bear hoof-made with yarn.

It was pretty small but compared to the young changeling, it was perfectly sized. He had a few patches all over him and his eyes were mix-matched, red button on the left and yellow button on the right. His fur was brown but black on the patches.

Chrysalis squealed happily. He was perfect.

Suddenly, a yellow eyed drone walked in making Chrysalis' heart fill with dread. It was one of her hive mothers. Since her mother died before she hatched, she was to be raised by a group of specially picked drones, Hive mothers.

"What is that dreadful thing" She snarled snatching the bear from Chrysalis with her magic. Chrysalis shuffled on her tiny little legs "It's a teddy, mother" She muttered obediently.

"How does this pertain to the hive? To your studies." She questioned. Chrysalis could feel her eyes filling with tears because she couldn't find an answer.

"I don't know..." She whispered under her breath.

The hive mother narrowed her eyes "Then it is useless." She said simply burning it with her magic. Chrysalis watched in horror as her hoof-made bear was burned in front of her eyes. She let out a small squeak of a whimper as the pile of ash fell to the floor.

Suddenly, she felt weightless as she was lifted with magic. "At least you did one thing right" She sneered forcefully taking the love from her. Chrysalis screamed in pain as her body struggled to fight the sudden invasion.

"It hurts! It hurts so badly, Mother please!" She sobbed as the pain increased. It felt as if the young foal was being stabbed with a white hot knife. Chrysalis felt dizzy as the pain increased to impossible levels. The foal let out a small whimper before vomiting onto the floor as the hive mother dropped her.

"Your sole purpose is to the hive, Chrysalis. You were born for the hive" The hive mother hissed before leaving the foal.

Chrysalis couldn't move because she felt so weak. She just wanted to sleep and dream of the day when her torture would be over. The day she would be queen. The day...

(End of Flashback)

Chrysalis could feel her skin crawling from the memory. 'Your soul purpose is to the hive' She reminded herself. Chrysalis felt so cold and hot at the same time as she began sweating.

Suddenly, She was grabbed by a striped hoof. Her vision was swirled, fading fast as she fell unconscious.

------

Nightmare's eyes opened to see what looked like a purple unicorn watching her. "Are you alright?" She questioned making the disguised alicorn nod instinctively.

She looked up into the unicorn's violet eyes. "My friend, she blamed me for something and I yelled at her then left her like an idiot" Nightmare muttered. The purple unicorn opened a wing and wrapped it around her making her eyes widen.

"You're-"

"An alicorn, I know. I've just been crowned the Princess of Friendship"

Nightmare gave her a stiff nod remembering the mare from 'that night'. The purple alicorn gave her a warm smile "You can always go make it up to her" she advised. Nightmare looked to the ground in shame "What would I even say..."

"Follow your instincts and say what's on your mind" She said in a wise voice.

Nightmare nodded silently "Thank you, Miss..."

"Twilight. Twilight Sparkle" She said with a smile. Nightmare returned her smile with a forced one of her own and ran to find Chrysalis. 'Please be safe' She pleaded to the creators.
-----

When Chrysalis finally woke up, she found herself in her natural form with a towel over her head. Her throat was dry and her body was weak. She panted for air feeling light headed.

"Nightmare..." She whispered as her friend suddenly appeared in her vision and began nuzzling her.

Zecora watched silently over the changeling as she began mumbling. Most likely from a fever induced hallucination, she squeezed out a fresh towel and placed it on her forehead only to be held weakly by the changeling's hooves.

"Don't leave me..." She whimpered holding her tightly as green blood began to trail from her muzzle and eyes. Zecora silently stroked her mane as the changeling turned miserably in her bed.

-------

Nightmare tumbled and fell to the ground as her vision swirled. The magic chain was pulling on her. 'Chrysalis...' She thought as she stumbled to her hooves and ran deeper into the Everfree.

"Chrysalis!" She called after her running at full speed. It was only after running that she realized that she wasn't anywhere close to her. She actually managed to lose herself in the Everfree.

The moon over head watched her mockingly. Nightmare whinnied in frustration looking for the chain that connected them. It was very faint but still there. Nightmare noticed it was disappearing in places 'Is she's dying?'

Nightmare ran in the direction the chain took her and noticed the chain was filling in as she ran. Her mind was filling with thoughts of the worst happening to her friend. No...

Nightmare shook her head quickly and noticed her eyes were leaking blood again. Her lungs burned and her muscles screamed as she ran faster.

She then stumbled upon a cottage similar to North's. She knocked on the door. After a few seconds, a zebra answered with a curious look.

"I'm looking for my friend. She's a changeling. I..."

"The knock on my door gave me quite a fright. But the changeling you seek is not quite right. I gave her all of my medicines and a pill. But I have never seen somepony quite so ill" She informed her ushering her inside quickly and walking upstairs.

The mare followed the zebra and saw her friend in a bed whimpering. She was extremely pale and she was sweating all over. The changeling was taking weak shaky breathes to fill her lungs.

"Chrysalis..." Nightmare whispered and gave her a nuzzle. "What's wrong with her?"

"I saw her in the forest choked up with fear. I went to her to lend her my ears. She fell to the ground and fell into a deep slumber. One that I did not put her under" She explained.

Nightmare watched her worriedly "What can I do?" She asked softly. Chrysalis let out a frail cough and began to hyperventilate.

"I believe-" Zecora was struck speechless as the mare kissed the unconscious changeling deeply.

Nightmare pulled away from Chrysalis' lips trembling as her eyes widened. 'Follow your instincts' Twilight's voice rang in her mind. Nightmare's face hardened confidently as she found the changeling's lips again.

Chrysalis' eyes snapped open as she took a deep breath. Her face was flushed with color as Nightmare pulled away. "N-N..." She trailed off as her heart began to pound. Her body was absorbing every drop of love from the alicorn.

Nightmare looked down as her face turned a slight red "I owe you an apology..." She whispered. Zecora smiled as she silently left the two to reconcile.

Chrysalis stared at Nightmare in shock as embarrassment and love filled her senses. She shook her head before pulling Nightmare towards her gave her a deep kiss. Nightmare's eyes widened but quickly fluttered closed as Chrysalis wrapped her forked tongue around hers. It wasn't a battle for dominance but a passionate loving kiss between the two mares.

"Chrysalis..." She sighed into the kiss as the changeling pulled away. Their tongues dripped saliva as Chrysalis licked her affectionately "Consider that my apology as well..." She panted. Nightmare nodded as her mind swam with new feelings for this mare.

Zecora walked in the room with 2 bowls. She sat in front of Chrysalis and handed her a bowl of cloudy white liquid. Chrysalis looked at it and then back at her.

"No...."

Nightmare gave her a look.

The changeling pouted like a foal being forced to eat his vegetables before desert. She shook her head and threw the liquid to the back of her throat. The changeling licked her lips tasting the remains of the potion. It tasted familiar...

Nightmare watched silently as Chrysalis regained her color. Her chitin even began to shine. Chrysalis looked at Zecora "What was that?" She questioned.

Zecora smiled "A mixture of spade berry juice and coconut milk. It is very smooth and goes down your throat like silk" She explained giving her another bowl to which Chrysalis eagerly drunk.

Nightmare watched silently in amusement as Chrysalis put the bowl down with a smile. "I haven't had spade berries in a while. They're the only thing a changeling can eat besides love that will give them necessary nutrients. They're poisonous to ponies." She sighed contently before finally getting a good look at Zecora.

"What is it with zebras and the Everfree?"

6

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Nightmare smiled as Chrysalis ran around in a field near Zecora's cottage. She was almost fully healed, the only think that persisted was an injury to her head that was obtained when she fell.

"You're acting like a foal" She yelled at the changeling who was pouncing on butterflies. Chrysalis stuck her tongue out at Nightmare before chasing after the pretty white butterfly.

Nightmare smiled and closed her eyes as the sun shone on them. Suddenly, everything went quiet followed by a tingling on her nose. The alicorn opened her eyes to see the white butterfly resting peacefully on her nose and a changeling queen rearing back awaiting the perfect moment to pounce.

"Chrysalis!" She exclaimed as the changeling jumped belly first onto her. The two went rolling down a hill laughing the entire way. Chrysalis gave her a mischievous smile and held up a wriggling butterfly with her magic "I got it!" She yelled in victory.

Nightmare shook her head "I swear something happened while you were sick. You weren't nearly this playful" She chuckled making the changeling huff at her. Chrysalis suddenly sobered up and gave Nightmare a small smile "I had flashbacks of my foalhood while I was sick and realized it wasn't that... spectacular" She muttered looking out into the fields of flowers.

Nightmare wrapped a wing around her "I don't think anypony had a perfect foalhood..." She whispered giving her a warm smile. Chrysalis shook her head and grabbed a boutique of golden flowers with her magic before beginning to weave them. "I didn't have many friends or things like that. I was trained to do everything for the hive. That my feelings don't matter." She said with a frown.

"Now that the hive is gone... What do I have to go back to? Then I thought of you" She blushed a bit looking at the newly created flower necklace and placed it around Nightmare's neck. Nightmare looked at her with a small smile "Of course. You can... Always come back to me" She whispered assuringly.

Chrysalis smiled and booped her on the nose making the alicorn shrink back in surprise. "Cute..." she commented much to the alicorn's dismay. "I'm not cute..." She said bashfully. Chrysalis smirked "Oh yea, you're the fearless, awesome Nightmare Moon!" She yelled mimicking her evil laugh.

Nightmare rolled her eyes "I'm anything but fearless. Do you know how scared I was when you just disappeared into the Everfree..." She argued. Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at the alicorn "Let me compliment you" She growled. Nightmare raised her hooves in surrender chuckling under her breath.

"Nightmare..."

"Hmm?"

"Say my name"

"Chrysalis?"

The changeling smiled "You don't really say it that much" She informed her. Nightmare looked down at the realization only for a holed hoof to push her head up. Chrysalis smiled and gave her a quick kiss making the alicorn rear up in suprise.

"We haven't talked about our relationship after that kiss"

"I-I thought you were trying to avoid it" Nightmare stuttered.

Chrysalis shook her head chuckling at the black alicorn. Nightmare looked conflicted "Isn't it wrong for two mares to have a relationship?" She asked in a low voice. Chrysalis hummed softly shaking her head "I don't know about ponies but with changelings it's normal to be with both genders. Especially since drones don't have a specific gender" She informed her.

"I always thought it was looked down upon. I really just acted on my instincts" Nightmare whispered drawing circles with her hoof.

Chrysalis snickered "Oh my Moon, you are so adorable"

Nightmare's face grew red "I was on the moon for one thousand years. I'm still learning, shut up..." She whispered under her breath looking down.

Chrysalis crawled under her to meet her beautiful seafoam orbs. "Do you love me?" She asked innocently.

Nightmare backed away "We just met about a little over a week ago..."

"Plenty of time for you to fall in love. Love has no time limit" Chrysalis cooed licking her cheek.

Nightmare turned her head "Away from me, you manipulative succubus" She growled playfully making Chrysalis smirk.

"Manipulative succubus, surely you jest. I only wanted to poke a little fun" She cried dramatically wiping an invisible tear. Nightmare rolled her eyes curling her wing back onto her side.

"Chrysalis?"

"Hmm?"

"Do... you plan to recreate your hive"

Chrysalis didn't answer but instead looked to the field of flowers. "Around my hive, I could never be free like this. This is the true me. Not Queen Chrysalis but just Chrysalis, that changeling foal with ponies for friends. The goofy little foal that gained a new friend wherever she went..." She thought out loud.

Nightmare silently listened to the changeling's grievances and watched the sun slowly fall below the horizon. "Because of my hive... Because of Queen Chrysalis, I had a daughter" Chrysalis whispered closing her eyes.

Nightmare's eyes widened at this information "With whom, if you don't mind me asking" She asked. Chrysalis bit her lip thinking about 'him'

"Sombra..."

That was a name that Nightmare never expected to hear again. Suddenly, the alicorn was extremely interested in the conversation "You... and Sombra?" She questioned. Chrysalis turned towards her "A political marriage for my other children. They needed love and the Crystal Empire had a lot of it"

"So she was a princess..." Nightmare whispered under her breath "What happened to her?"

Chrysalis shook her head quickly "Please... I'll tell you when I'm ready" She pleaded weakly feeling the familiar chills run down her back. Nightmare nodded and gave her a sideways glace "I am known as the spiritual embodiment of the sadness and pain Princess Luna felt one thousand years ago. I guess you could call me a spiritual parasite... I was just numb and despondent from everypony. I couldn't feel anything but a dull pain in my chest. I never thought I was capable of compassion until now. I didn't reach out and I was punished for it... One thousand years on a desolate space rock" Nightmare chuckled dryly.

"Now I'm back to find out that I'm the monster in every little foal's bedtime story and I have a holiday on the day of my banishment"

Chrysalis flinched at the coldness of her tone before snuggling up to her side. Nightmare went silent after that sending the changeling a thankful smile.

"Every little filly dreams of becoming a princess... but every princess dreams of being normal" Chrysalis stated with a scowl. Nightmare's body shook with laughter "Ironic isn't it" She chuckled.

Chrysalis nodded slowly taking a deep breath as the moonlight beamed on Nightmare making her entire body glow. She couldn't help but capture the alicorn's lips... Again. Nightmare froze for a second but eventually kissed back.

Chrysalis could feel the warmth of the love being absorbed into her chest. She could feel herself overflowing with it. Nightmare let out a small yelp as the changeling pinned her to the ground. Her lavender mane sparked with its new found ethereal breeze and stars as they kissed each other deeply.

Nightmare eventually, pulled away much to the changeling's dismay "I need to breathe, Chrysalis" She panted. The changeling scoffed "Breathing is for weaklings" She said playfully. Nightmare shook her head giving her an amused smile.

"Is it just me... Or whenever we kiss, it feels exactly like our first?" Chrysalis questioned

Nightmare nodded "It still catches me off guard when you do it"

Chrysalis stuck her tongue out at that and rose to her haunches "My beautiful Queen of the Night" She muttered as she watched Nightmare's mane glow with stars. Nightmare shuffled to her hooves and began to turn crimson in the face "I have no kingdom, so I don't need a title" She said quickly

Chrysalis snickered at the bashful alicorn "I swear you don't like to be complimented" She teased. Nightmare snorted "I prefer you not to stroke my ego. I remember the last time my ego was throughly stroked."

Chrysalis bit her tongue to hold her laughter 'Don't make a sex joke...." She pleaded with herself. Nightmare looked to the sky "We should rest... It's getting late and we have a long trip tomorrow"

Chrysalis nodded in agreement wondering what North was thinking at that moment.
----

North sat near the river cutting plants that were growing too high 'Almost done then I can have a sandwich with these' She thought to herself licking her lips.

When suddenly her nose twitched and she let out a powerful sneeze falling into the river.

----

Chrysalis shrugged 'She's probably asleep anyway'

Nightmare was going to walk in the cottage when she heard a small creak in the floorboards. She held out her hoof and her horn crackled to life putting on her illusion, Night Tide. Chrysalis seemed to catch the drift and turned into Summer Grass.

They walked in cautiously when the lights flicked on

"SURPRISE!" All the ponies screamed.

Chrysalis jumped while Nightmare just blinked at them. "Well a little birdy told me that tonight was your last night in Ponyville, so I said..." The pink mare gave them an exaggerated gasp "I need to throw them a party!"

Chrysalis nudged Nightmare "Is it just me or is she tamer then she was before..." She whispered to her.

Nightmare shrugged.

Suddenly, music started playing and all the ponies began to dance and eat cake. Chrysalis shook her head as a familiar lavender alicorn walked up to them.

"I see you made up with your friend." Twilight said with a smile.

Nightmare nodded "You're advice was very helpful. Thank you"

Twilight smiled "No problem."

"This is my friend, Summer Grass"

"Summer Grass?" Nightmare kicked the changeling making her fall silent as she glared at her.

"Night Tide!" A familiar voice said before she was tackled by a rainbow blur.

"Hello to you, Rainbow Dash"

Chrysalis watched silently as she remembered the pegasus from her invasion of Canterlot. Twilight smiled and gave her a small wave to which she returned.

"Is Night Tide your marefriend?"

Chrysalis' green cheeks became slightly red "It's complicated. We were friends but we kissed and now... yeah" She blurted.

Twilight giggled "I know how you feel. Me and my marefriend are the same only more complicated. She should be showing up soon, though"

Chrysalis relaxed feeling oddly at ease around this mare. "Tell me about her if you don't mind..."

---

Nightmare stumbled as Rainbow Dash pulled her through the many ponies that occupied Zecora's cottage.

"This is my marefriend, Fluttershy" She said with a smile. Fluttershy let out a small squeak in suprise.

Nightmare's eyes widened "I thought that two mares being together was frowned upon"

"W-Well it was but after a while ponies just learned to change" Fluttershy stuttered shyly. Nightmare took in this information and smiled "I see..."

Rainbow Dash smiled "Yea. Besides anypony should be able to love whoever they want. That's what Cadance said when we got together"

"Cadance?"

"Oh? she's the Princess of Love. I'm surprised you don't know her." Rainbow commented.

"Sorry I'm just out of date, I guess" Nightmare muttered.

Fluttershy laid a wing on her back "Don't worry, if I wasn't at the wedding, I would be the same" She whispered with a smile.

"So how did you two meet?"

---

"She's just very old fashioned but it's cute when she tried to figure out things in this day and age"

Chrysalis chuckled "Night Tide is the same. She thinks that same-sex relationships are still frowned upon but her reaction when she found out it wasn't was adorable"

"My marefriend was the same way" Twilight giggled.

The two shared a laugh as the door to Zecora's cottage opened and everypony went quiet. Twilight perked up "Luna!" She exclaimed running towards the blue alicorn.

"You all may rise. I'm here as a friend" She said with a smile embracing the smaller mare.

Chrysalis could feel her stomach tie in a knot as they walked over to her.

"Luna, this is Summer Grass. Summer, this is my marefriend, Luna" She introduced. The alicorn raised her hoof and Chrysalis shook it hesitantly.

"It is nice to see Twilight making new companions" She said giving the lavender mare a smile.

"Y-Yea, I bet" She said nervously "Have you seen Zecora, Twilight?"

The lavender mare shook her head "I think she went to go explore the forest."

----

I know that Princess Luna can be intimidating but she's nice" Rainbow assured. Nightmare gave her a blank stare "I'm not intimidated by her" She growled under her breath.

Fluttershy smiled "Maybe you should meet her." She suggested making the disguised alicorn shoot up and shake her head violently. Rainbow shrugged and sat on a chair "Have you met her before?"

Nightmare huffed "I know her better than you'd ever think" She whispered gracefully eating a cupcake.

The two pegasi looked at each other then back at her.

----

"Well that's why my friend and I are in a complicated predicament... " Chrysalis finished sipping a cup of soda.

Luna frowed her brow "That is an interesting situation... What is the name of your friend?"

"Night Tide." She blurted quickly before covering her muzzle in embarrassment.

"Night Tide..." She repeated calmly.

Twilight closed her eyes in thought "Why don't you give it a try. I mean, you two obviously have chemistry"

Chrysalis blushed "It's complicated in a way that I shouldn't say in front of a princess" She muttered hoping that they would drop the conversation.

"You don't have to think of me as a princess. I do not even have my tiara" Luna assured.

Chrysalis facehoofed "We've only known each other for a little under 2 weeks" She groaned. 'Why are these alicorns so comforting. I'm literally word vomiting my life story' She moaned in her mind.

Luna nodded with a thoughtful look "Well you can't live a lifetime without mistakes. Risks can be the key to happiness besides, you little ponies aren't going to live forever"

'OH THE BUCKING IRONY!!!' Chrysalis screamed mentally as she gave Luna a forced smile "Ok. Thanks for the advice."

Suddenly, Rainbow Dash floated back with Night Tide as she walked with a cream colored pegasus.

"O-Oh hello, Princess Luna" The cream pegasus stuttered.

"Nice to see you again, Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash" Luna said with a smile.

Nightmare finished her cupcake and sat next to Chrysalis "Summer..."

"Night..." She greeted back as her heart began to pound.

"Did you have a fun time with *ahem* Princess Luna"

"It was fine..."

The group was then plunged into an uncomfortably awkward silence. Night refused to even look in the direction of the Princess of the Night. Luna was staring at the mare with a suspicious gaze and everypony else was just shuffling uncomfortably on their hooves.

"Have we met before, Miss. Night Tide?" Luna asked. Chrysalis began bouncing on her hooves as Night Tide slowly looked at Luna.

"No." She said stiffly.

Another pause...

"Ok! I can't take another second of this! Night! why do you hate, Luna?" Rainbow finally broke the silence.

Night Tide rolled her eyes "I don't hate her. I'm just uncomfortable around royalty"

Chrysalis began to sink in her seat as she let out a painfully long sigh. "Follow me outside, Night" She muttered walking out the cottage. Night Tide silently followed her ignoring Luna's curious gaze.

As soon as the door closed, Chrysalis began to speak.

"You are terrible at this!"

"How am I supposed to react to the mare that... created me. It's awkward... Like talking to your mother or sister after you had a fight and stopped talking for years"

Chrysalis had to place a hoof over her muzzle to refain from laughing. After a deep breath, the changeling looked to her again "At least try and not act suspicious. Luna was giving you a curious look-"

Nightmare gave her a look

"What?"

"Luna?"

"She told me to call her that!"

"You got so close to her that she had you drop her title?" Nightmare snarled feeling oddly possessive of the changeling.

Chrysalis went silent for a moment sensing the anger...

Nightmare shook her head to rid herself of the malice "I'm joking"

"Oh... I thought you were mad. You sounded like it"

Nightmare shook her head again and walked back into Zecora's cottage. Chrysalis shook her own head 'That mare...'

7

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Chrysalis walked back into the party to see AppleJack talking with Fluttershy, who was sitting next to Rainbow Dash. Twilight was next to Luna. Nightmare was talking to an unfamiliar white unicorn and Pinkie was tap dancing on the table.

Chrysalis snuck over while the pink was distracted and sat next to Nightmare.

"Oh Summer, this is Rarity" Nightmare introduced the white unicorn.

"Hello..."

"Oh my Celestia" Rarity rushed over to Chrysalis and stroked her mane "Your mane is exceptional, Darling. It honestly shines"

Chrysalis blushed "Thank you"

The supply of love and emotions from being around ponies was making her mane fill into a dark emerald color even in her disguise.

"Summer!" Pinkie screamed and jumped on her sending that mare about 5 haunches from her seat.

"Hi Pinkie" She sighed wiggling from underneath the pink mare.

"Did you taste the cake? I made it just for you two!" She questioned

"Not yet but I will never get to it if you keep jumping on me, Pinkie"

Pinkie gasped and scrambled off of the mare. The changeling shook her head and went to sit down again when she bumped into the pink mare holding a plate of chocolate cake. Her jaw dropped as she looked over to the other side of the cottage where the cake sat and then to Pinkie. 'Stop questioning it, Chrysalis' She thought and took the cake into her hooves.

The pink party pony quickly sat down next to Nightmare and patiently watched her. Chrysalis shuffled awkwardly and took a bite of cake. Her face was graced with a smile "It's delicious, Thank you Pinkie" She praised.

Pinkie's face broke into a big smile "No problem!"

Nightmare stared at her.

"What?"

"You have a little something, Riiiight" Nightmare licked a bit of blue frost off of the tip of her nose "There"

Chrysalis' face exploded with color all the way to the tips of her ears as Nightmare chuckled.

"Awwe" All of the ponies around them chorused.

Chrysalis turned away as her face became an unripe tomato with a green mane. It was like all of the romance novels that the changeling had read but in reality. Her mind was going a mile a minute attempting to calm her pounding heart. She wanted to say something but her entire body was frozen yet flushed with heat.

"I... think you broke her, Darling"

The other ponies laughed softly.

"It's so sappy" Rainbow gagged making AppleJack tug on her prismatic tail.

Pinkie didn't say anything as she disappeared again and reappeared a few seconds later. She had a banner with her that read: Congratulations on your new relationship!!! And was decorated by mini stick figure pony drawings of Night Tide and Summer.

"Poor thing, I-I would have been so embarrassed. I-In fact, I'm embarrassed for her" Fluttershy stuttered with a red face of her own.

"It's secondhand embarrassment. I know I would be embarrassed if Luna did that" Twilight giggled.

Luna just gave her a mischievous smirk.

Nightmare watched Chrysalis from the corner of her eye as the changeling turned back around to join the discussion.

"I-I think I'm going to go to bed" She stumbled out of her seat and literally ran upstairs.

Everypony went silent for a second "Ah think we made it worse by commenting about it" AppleJack said

Nightmare stared at the stairs for a moment before getting out of her seat "It was nice meeting all of you but we have a long trip tomorrow. Goodnight" She said quickly before running after Chrysalis.

Nightmare knocked at the door "Chrysalis, I didn't mean to upset you..." She whispered shuffling while looking down in shame.

There was a slight shuffle from inside and then the door opened

"You didn't upset me, I just got super embarrassed so I ran away. But I enjoyed it even if it caught me off guard" She said pulling her in.

Nightmare walked in and closed the door allowing her disguise to melt away.

"I never expected you to be so bold. I thought that was my thing" Chrysalis whispered with an adorable pout.

Nightmare chuckled shaking her head before giving her a hesitant kiss on the forehead.

"Nightmare..."

"I don't know..."

"Do you want to be?"

Nightmare went silent and just nodded slowly.

"I mean it's just dating. Complete strangers date each other all the time. It's not like we're getting married." Chrysalis said putting her mane into a bun.

Nightmare let out a breath she didn't know she was holding as Chrysalis crawled into the bed. Nightmare crawled beside her and stared into her emerald eyes.

"I've honestly seen Yaks fall in love in less time" Nightmare whispered. Chrysalis chuckled "Do their relationships work out?"

Nightmare gave her a mischievous smile "You wouldn't know because they share their mares with everyone in the tribe" She informed her. Chrysalis shuddered "Why?"

"More competition and bigger population. I'm honestly suprised they keep within their borders. I wonder if their traditions are the same." She said simply. Chrysalis shuddered again feeling the blanket becoming more uncomfortable by the second.

"Speaking of.... that, do you, alicorns even go into heat?"

Nightmare nodded "Every full moon for me and Luna"

Chrysalis' eyes widened as her jaw dropped "That's often!"

Nightmare chuckled "But all alicorns have an extremely low impregnation rate."

Chrysalis nodded dumbly attempting to process this new information.

"What about changelings?"

"The Queen can induce her own heat when she feels it is necessary to fertilize eggs but being around a lot of love can induce it automatically."

Nightmare nodded feeling her eyelids getting heavier from this random conversation topic. Chrysalis laid her head on the pillow "Goodnight, I guess" She whispered. Nightmare let out a series of mumbles into the pillow as they both fell asleep.

-----

Nightmare grumbled as she felt light nudges on her side. Her seafoam eyes slowly opened to see Zecora.

"You wished for me to wake you when the sun rose in the sky. I believe it is time for us to say Goodbye" She whispered holding out her saddlebag full of groceries and her bit bag.

Nightmare yawned and rose from the bed carefully as to not wake the change and slid the items onto her waist. She looked to see Chrysalis sleeping peacefully and smiled sliding her onto her back with her magic.

"Thank you for everything, Zecora. I am in your debt." She whispered as she walked outside.

Zecora shook her head quickly and opened the door for her "Safe travels, my friend." She said

Nightmare looked at her in shock that she didn't rhyme but quickly turned back to the road. She walked through the forest silently until she stumbled upon a familiar structure. The Castle of the Two Sisters.

Nightmare stood there for a second, then nodded with a silent ambition before walking away from the building.

After a while, the changeling on her back finally woke up.

"Wha..." She groaned looking around

"Good Morning, Chrysalis"

"Good Morning...." She muttered crawling off of the alicorn "Why didn't you wake me? Not that I'm complaining"

"You looked so peaceful"

Chrysalis snorted in disbelief

"After you look past all the snoring and drooling"

Chrysalis glared at her "I don't do either of those things"

Nightmare snickered "You don't snore, that was a joke but you do drool"

Chrysalis let out a small series of curses as she walked in front of her.

"At least you look cute while doing it"

"Shut up..."

------

After about an hour, they could see the familiar cottage. And outside was a glaring unicorn. Nightmare gave Chrysalis a sympathetic look.

"I ought to put more holes in you than there are in Chrysalis' legs'

"Hey!"

The unicorn turned her glare to the changeling "I told you to go shopping not to buy a house and have 3 foals"

Chrysalis opened her mouth to correct her but closed it when her glare intensified.

"Chrysalis got an extremely high fever so our return was delayed" Nightmare explained.

North fell silent after that. "Are you ok?" She questioned her putting a hoof to the changeling's head.

"I'm fine..."

"I'll make a soup for you!"

"North... I plan to leave" Nightmare said surprising the mare and the changeling. North's ears drooped "Why?" She asked softly.

"I wish to find a place in Canterlot. I won't abuse your hospitality any longer"

Chrysalis stiffened "Why can't I stay here. I won't be any use in Canterlot. They probably have changeling spells everywhere after my stunt"

"Do you not trust me to protect you? Besides you know exactly why you cannot stay" Nightmare stated. Chrysalis narrowed her eyes "You don't know what I've experienced in Canterlot. That entire place is a death zone for criminals like us and besides you haven't been victorious in conquering Canterlot either"

Nightmare stiffened gritting her teeth "We are going to Canterlot." She said finally walking into the house and packing her things.

Chrysalis opened her mouth to oppose her but all her words turned to ash on her tongue when she remembered her expression. It was an expression that screamed 'No arguments'

Chrysalis growled "Fine... It's not like I have anything to lose anyway"

8

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'Summer Grass' grumbled as she sat next to 'Night Tide' on the train. It was 3 days until they would be in Canterlot due to stops and distance. 3 days in disguise with almost infinite love. Chrysalis sighed catching Nightmare's attention. They sat together in silence unwilling to talk.

After a few minutes, the train car door opened and a familiar lavender alicorn walked in followed by a baby dragon. "Oh! Hello. I didn't expect to see you here" She greeted them with a smile.

The two friends smiled at their acquaintance as the train began to move.

"So you're going to Canterlot as well?"

Chrysalis nodded "Night... wants to see a friend there"

Twilight smiled "I'm going to see my old mentor and marefriend. They summoned me for some reason, and trust me that doesn't happen often" She said with a small giggle. The dragon huffed drawing their attention.

"This is Spike. My assistant and brother"

"Hello Spike"

"Hello Spike the dragon"

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow "Why'd you add the dragon?"

Nightmare grabbed the baby dragon in her magic and began to scratch his stomach gaining a low growl in approval "Because any dragon deserves respect. Where I'm from dragons are brave and powerful beings no matter how big or small"

Spike glowed with pride as she praised his species. He never agreed with their behavior but the compliment made him beam with confidence.

Nightmare looked out of the window as the train moved unconsciously stroking the dragon from head to tail. The machine was somewhat new to her. When she'd last seen a train it was a blueprint and had never been created. She then looked down as the quick moments made her dizzy. The purple dragon was peacefully sleeping curled up beside her.

"If I remember correctly, you are Princess Celestia's prized pupil." Chrysalis said with a smile. She'd never expected to get along so well with somepony who had a hand in her hive's destruction. She was both vengeful and grateful. Suddenly, she felt guilty for yelling at Nightmare that night.

"I was until I became a princess. Now we are co-workers, I guess" She explained.

Nightmare nodded silently "So can you tell me about Princess Cadance since I heard you are her sister in law"

"Oh Cadance. She was my foalsitter as a filly. She's the Princess of Love and she's Princess Celestia's adoptive niece. She can see relationships between ponies just by looking at them or make ponies fall in love just by using her magic" Twilight explained.

Nightmare raised an eyebrow "That seems like a power that can easily be abused"

Twilight shook her head "She learned from when she was a filly and made two siblings fall in love with each other. She got in trouble."

Chrysalis couldn't help but giggle "She made two siblings. Go at it" She burst out in a fit of laughter.

Nightmare rolled her eyes "You are immature, she just said fall in love and your mind instantly becomes dirty"

Chrysalis stuck her tongue out at Nightmare "At least I'm proud of it"

Twilight giggled at the two mares. She silently wished she could have a relationship like that with Luna.

Nightmare watched as the two mares began another conversation. Her mind plagued with thoughts of Chrysalis. Her smile no matter how faint it is, it is still quite beautiful. Her adorable blush when she's embarrassed. And of course she didn't miss the way her chest throbs when Chrysalis wanders near her.

Nightmare's thoughts could go on and on about the mare. It was almost embarrassing sometimes. She was like a high school filly with a crush. Everything about Chrysalis was perfect. Even if she tends to push her limits.

Chrysalis looked to see Nightmare deep in her thoughts while humming an unfamiliar tune. It was quite bittersweet in melody, sad but also happy at some points.

"The song that she's humming is quite calming" Twilight whispered with a yawn. Chrysalis nodded slowly rocking back and forth to her gentle melody. Eventually, the two mares fell into a peaceful slumber as Nightmare finally finished her song.

The disguised alicorn kissed the changeling on her forehead and began looking outside again. The sun was lingering in the sky as pegasi pushed the clouds in place for the next storm. It was unnaturally peaceful.

'I guess the calm before the storm is actually a true occurrence' She thought bitterly to herself.

-----

A few hours later, the two mares awoke from their nap to see Nightmare curled up in her seat around Spike.

"Hey Twilight..."

"Huh?"

"What do you think of me and Night?"

The lavender alicorn raised an eyebrow but didn't argue "You're nice. I mean the way you put up with everypony especially Pinkie Pie is... I don't know how to describe it. Night is kind of mysterious with her personalities. One minute she can be sweet, open and respectful, but the next, she can be cold, dark, and terrifying. It just feels like she's hiding something inside herself."

Chrysalis nodded with a thoughtful look. Twilight watched her silently trying to find out what the mare was thinking. Chrysalis looked into her violet eyes and chuckled. Twilight tilted her head "What?"

"You can be quite adorable when you aren't trying to be"

"Luna said the same thing and my parents said I used it to my advantage as a foal. My foalhood was almost perfect in my opinion."

"My parents were quite strict with my foalhood. It was always about my future and my studies"

Twilight raised an eyebrow "That sounds like an amazing foalhood. Princess Celestia always wanted me to get out and find a friend. In my foalhood, I guess you could say books were my best friend"

"I wished I could've had more friends in my foalhood. My parents always chased them away or forced me to break it off. Any gifts that I got were burned and I would be punished"

Twilight's ears fell flat "That sounds terrible... I don't know what I would do if my parents told me to give up my friends."

"I could never argue with them because in my mind they were ones supplying me with what I need. Mostly shelter"

"I remember when I argued with my parents, I always got the 'I gave birth to you' card from my mom and my dad always complained that 'I was young' and didn't understand" A yellow pegasus stallion said joining them "I'm sorry but I just thought that you'd like an outsider's point of view"

Twilight shook her head with a smile "No need to apologize. What's your name?"

"Lemon Squeeze, Princess"

Twilight blushed "No need for titles"

"Summer Grass" Chrysalis intoduced herself.

"Pleasure to meet you two beautiful mares"

Twilight squirmed "So anyway. My parents never pulled any kind of card because I never argued unless it clearly contradicting a fact"

"So she was the goody two shoes." Lemon added making Chrysalis smirk.

Twilight blushed "I was not a goody two shoes. I was a rebel"

Chrysalis shook her head "If you need to state you're a rebel then you're not a rebel"

Lemon shook his head sitting next to Chrysalis.

"I bet the only reason you argued was because they said the chemical formula for water is HO2" Chrysalis stated snickering lightly to herself.

Twilight huffed and Lemon shook with laughter.

"You're funny..." He whispered laying a fore-leg around her shoulders. Chrysalis froze and slid away.

"I was a rebel when I was young. I used to jump off of Cloudsdale to learn to fly even though my teachers told me not to."

Twilight gaped "That's not being a rebel, that's borderline suicidal. Cloudsdale is more than 50 feet in the air!"

Chrysalis facehoofed... again.

Nightmare groaned waking up from all the commotion "What happened?"

Twilight looked to Nightmare "This stallion said he jumped off of Cloudsdale to learn to fly"

Nightmare yawned stretching "I thought all pegasi did that back in the day. Why is it such a big deal again?"

Twilight sighed "That was when Cloudsdale was close to the ground. These days Cloudsdale is more than 50 feet in air. 40 on a good day"

"Then call his bluff" Nightmare stated stretching

"I'm not bluffing" Lemon argued sliding closer to Chrysalis.

Nightmare watched the subtle movement closely. Twilight squirmed even more as the room filled with tension.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes as the tension grew so thick you could cut it with a butcher knife.

Nightmare felt her body tense from the obvious challenge. This lowly stallion thought he had what it took to touch what was hers. Her instincts urged her to trample him into the ground. Chrysalis was her mare.

Her mare...

'Our mare' a voice within her snarled.

Nightmare mentally shuddered at the thought of Chrysalis being hers and hers only.

"H-Hey let's go back to talking about Cloudsdale. I heard they have lovely weather" Twilight stuttered

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow "They don't have weather at all" She stated.

The two were ignored by the other two as they silently battled each other with their stares.

Lemon glared hard at the arrogant black unicorn that had the right to challenge him. A pegasus.

"I will kindly as you to back away from my mare" Nightmare growled looking down at the pegasus. Chrysalis shivered at Nightmare's tone when she said 'my mare'. It was deep and threatening.

The pegasus stood up and walked up to her "Make me."

'Kill him' The vengeful voice snapped with the disguised alicorn.

Nightmare's pupils slitted and began to glow temporarily as she threw the stallion of their cabin with her magic. She then slammed the door leaving the members of the other cabin dumbstruck at the unconscious pegasus. Twilight, herself, was shocked at how the unicorn handled the situation. She was normally so cool and collected.

Nightmare sat in her seat and calmly began reading a book.

"Night..."

"Hmmm?"

"Your mare..." Chrysalis said unable to keep the smirk from her face as Nightmare slowly turned red in the face.

"Shush..."

Twilight smiled at the exchange "I have never seen anypony be so possessive"

"He had it coming" Nightmare said sharply

Twilight nodded with an amused smile "I just thought you'd handle it differently"

Nightmare blew her mane out of her face and continued reading her book. Spike woke up groggily "What did I miss this time?" He questioned looking around at the mares amused smiles and Nightmare's stoic embarrassed face.

9

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The mares didn't see Lemon Squeeze again that next day. Chrysalis and Twilight talked under the watchful eyes of Nightmare. During their talks, Nightmare learned many things about her companion.

1. Chrysalis' favorite food (besides love) was chocolate

2. Chrysalis' birthday is February 13th

And 3. When Chrysalis was young she wanted to go to Starswirl's/ Celestia's school for gifted unicorns (Sweet Irony)

Spike tapped on Nightmare snapping the disguised alicorn from her thoughts. The dragon silently held up an apple to which the alicorn grabbed with a smile "Thanks..." She whispered looking to the sleeping Twilight across from them.

Chrysalis watched eating her own. Her thoughts were on Canterlot. What if they get arrested by the guards or get found out. 'Why did I let Nightmare talk me into this?' She groaned to herself as she attempted to assure the growing pit in her chest. She didn't doubt that the alicorn could protect her but her mind continued to drift to the worst possibility.

Nightmare looked at Chrysalis "When we get to Canterlot. Let's go out somewhere" she whispered in the changeling's ear. Chrysalis nodded blushing slightly. Spike stared between the two mares with a curious look.

-----3 hours later-----

Chrysalis' lips curled up in a mischievous smile as she put the whipped cream that she got from the attendant on Twilight's hoof. The changeling then lightly tapped on Twilight's forehead. The purple alicorn moaned and put the hoof on her forehead smearing whipped cream in her mane. Spike snickered and rubbed some on her muzzle.

Chrysalis bit her tongue to hold in her laughter and lightly tapped her cheek. Twilight let out a low whimper and slid her hoof down to her cheek. Suddenly, the changeling and the dragon burst out into a fit of laughter waking the alicorn.

"Oh my Moon" Chrysalis cried falling on the ground as she laughed harder at the alicorn's dumbstruck face.

"What...." Twilight looked down at her hoof and glared at Chrysalis "Summer! Spike!"

Nightmare chuckled as Twilight chased the laughing changeling around the train car. The dragon was seeking shelter behind her laughing as the two smeared whipped cream all over the train car.

"Get! Back! Here!" Twilight yelled as Chrysalis dodged her and took to the air.

"Come on, Twily. It's just a prank- Buck!" She squealed as Twilight pulled her by the tail and pounced on her.

"AHA, I'VE GOT YOU!" Twilight screamed like a rabid predator as she crawled on her with hooves full of whipped cream.

"Twilight... Let's talk. We can negotiate-"

"No!" The alicorn interupted smearing whipped cream all over Chrysalis' muzzle and mane.

"-This..." Chrysalis finished blowing whipped cream from her nose.

"When you're friends with pranksters like Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, you start to learn more about how to get revenge after the act. Even my marefriend is a prankster"

"Luna is a prankster?"

"Yea, her and Princess Celestia have prank wars"

Chrysalis chuckled at the thought.

"So? Truce." Twilight questioned

"Hold on" Chrysalis grabbed the can of whipped cream and put some on each of their hooves.

Twilight seemed to get the message and grinned before they both ran at Nightmare. The unicorn was reading a book and didn't seem them coming until her face was covered in the sweet frothy condiment. Spike was also hit with a sweet payback himself making him fall over onto his back in surprise.

The alicorn snickered as the changeling hoof bumped her.

Nightmare glared at them before grinning ferally.

"I recommend you, run..."

------

*1 hour later*

Nightmare sat peacefully reading the romance novel that the train supplied as the two culprits of her prank sat tied together beside her. Spike watching over them to prevent them from escaping.

"Night... We're sorry" Twilight moaned "My wings are sore"

"Come on... Can you use your magic yet" Chrysalis groaned wiggling in her restraints.

"5 more minutes..." Nightmare said absent-mindedly as she began reading a kissing scene in her novel.

Twilight huffed "I'll try and slid out"

"It's not going to work"

"It's either that or we stay stuck like this for 5 more minutes"

Chrysalis rolled her eyes "Have at it"

Twilight began her attempt to slide her hooves free and began wiggling.

"I think I've almost..." Twilight gasped

"Twilight your hooves are still in the same place"

The alicorn looked at her in shock "I thought for sure I was making progress"

Chrysalis shook her head

Twilight huffed and began to rock back and forth.

"Twilight! You're gonna rock us-" Chrysalis was interrupted when the two of them fell off the seat onto the ground followed by a series of curses and groans. Spike rolled in laughter.

"I think my wing is missing or broken"

"Twilight, it's in the same place trust me. It's still stabbing into my ribs"

Nightmare watched them, amused by the show she was getting. "Are you done?"

"Nooo, give us a few more years" Chrysalis said sarcastically turning her glare towards the unicorn.

Twilight just groaned in response.

"Cut them free, Spike the dragon"

Spike huffed "Do I have to... They seem fine like this"

"SPIKE!" The two mare yelled

"Fiiine" He groaned cutting them free with his claws.

Twilight fell the the ground and crawled away "Sweet freedom"

"Tell me about it" Chrysalis sighed stretching her wings.

The attendant walked in with a cart of snacks "Do you mares and drake need anything"

Nightmare shook her head as the attendant looked down at the two mares on the ground struggling dramatically to their seats.

"Believe it or not but I have seen weirder things on this train" The attendant said nonchalantly making Spike snort in amusement as the attendant moved to the next car.

------

After a few hours passed, and the passengers of the car began looking outside as they pulled up the mountain.

"I believe that we will get there early. By nightfall, if my estimation is correct" Nightmare said.

Chrysalis froze up a bit as flashbacks of Cadance and Shining Armor's wedding invading her vision. The thoughts quickly faded with a nuzzle from Nightmare. Her mind thought about the tone that Nightmare had when she said that Chrysalis was her mare. Chrysalis mentally squealed which led to her lips curling up into a huge smile.

Nightmare gulped down a cup of coffee brought by the attendant as Twilight read a textbook on the different species of Equis.

Twilight sighed stretching "I have so many questions. There's so little information about so many species"

"Like which?" Nightmare questioned

"The Changelings, and Ceberus. Then there's a lot of species that I haven't even read yet"

Chrysalis' ears perked at the word, changelings.

"What do you need to know about the changelings?" Nightmare asked

Twilight sighed grabbing a notebook and began to write "Like it says that queens are self fertilizing but that absolutely makes zero sense to me. Wouldn't that make the drones exactly the same as the queen?"

Chrysalis almost fell out of her seat at the sheer stupidity. 'Of course, Queens are not self fertilizing, are you dumb?!' Her common sense screamed at Twilight.

Nightmare chuckled as Chrysalis facehoofed. That was quickly becoming her response to everything that she deemed was ridiculous.

"What do you guys think?" Twilight questioned

Chrysalis quickly turned around "I don't believe Queens are self fertilizing at all"

Nightmare just shrugged.

Spike followed Nightmare's lead and turned back to his comics.

"I agree with Summer. It doesn't make sense. I will have to send a message to the author" Twilight said taking it down in the notebook.

Chrysalis blew her mane out of her eyes allowing the now lustrous forest green strands to glimmer in the golden sunlight. Nightmare was enraptured by this changeling. Her beauty seemed to multiply by hundreds every time she looked at her. The alicorn didn't feel anything against her mental barrier so, she assumed this was natural seduction. Or maybe because this was her mare...

Wow that was sappy enough to make Rainbow Dash vomit...

Chrysalis watched as the train stopped in the station. The painfully familiar buildings of Canterlot roamed in the background. The changeling backed away from the window shaking. They were going to kill her. Blast her back into the Everfree. She shouldn't have come back. Chrysalis could see Celestia's harsh gaze upon her now making her breathing quicken.

Nightmare quickly sprung into action grabbing the changeling and pulling her close. "Chrysalis, deep breathes. count with me" She whispered in her ear rocking her back and forth.

"One"

"O-one.."

"Two"

"..." Chrysalis began to struggle against the unicorn's hold.

"Chrysalis, Two" She repeated in a low whisper.

"T-Two"

The two repeated until they got to ten. Chrysalis was beginning to calm down. Her head lowered as she let out a few ragged breathes "I'm sorry..." She whispered. Nightmare shook her head "You're ok" She assured.

Twilight watched the exchange anxiously "Is Summer alright? I can go get a doctor." She recommended. Nightmare shook her head "A lot of bad things happened to her in Canterlot"

"PTSD?"

Nightmare nodded

Twilight's ears fell "Poor thing... Are you sure she doesn't need a doctor? I'm sure Princess Celestia won't mind..."

Nightmare shook her head quickly and lowered herself to allow Chrysalis on her back. Chrysalis held on tightly feeling as weak as can be. The queen began to scold herself mentally for showing weakness to them. She was taught to never show weakness.

"It was nice seeing you again, Princess Twilight Sparkle. I hope to see you, again" Nightmare waved at the purple alicorn before rushing past the royal guard and into the city.

"I'm sorry" Chrysalis whimpered "I didn't mean to..."

Nightmare felt terrible for dragging the changeling there. It was like the queen was having a full breakdown. She quickly happened upon a park and sat the disguised changeling on a bench.

"I'm sorry, Chrysalis."

After a few minutes of breathing, Chrysalis shook her head "Don't worry. I just had a bit of a fit" She said with a weak smile. Nightmare kissed her forehead "We should find a hotel before it gets too dark"

Chrysalis nodded pushing herself up and quickly clutched her head "Buck, I feel light-headed"

"Just climb on if you need to..."

Chrysalis nodded. She wasn't going to take her up on the offer anyway. She willed herself to be strong.

Nightmare kept a watchful eye on the changeling knowing that she hated relying on her. Chrysalis was a head strong mare that would rather injure herself than get help. The last thing Nightmare needed was for Chrysalis to collapse on her.

Chrysalis silently looked around at all the noble ponies walking around in eye-catching outfits made from many different varieties of fabrics. "It seems that it hasn't changed much since I was last here. Technological advancements but still the city of noble descent"

Chrysalis looked up at Nightmare "What even makes somepony a noble?"

"Most are white with blonde manes. It is the most regressive gene that we ponies have and can be easily polluted. When foals were born to noble families you could normal tell by the blue veins on their furless stomach upon birth."

"Mhm." Was all the changeling had to say.

Nightmare sighed swallowing her nerves "Chrysalis..."

The changeling leaned on her and looked up at her with adorably huge emerald eyes "Yes..."

Nightmare shuffled on her hooves "N-Nevermind." She whispered losing her nerve. The changeling tilted her head but didn't say anything about it.

After a while, the two found a hotel and walked up to their room.

"I mean I feel bad that we left North on such short notice"

"I agree but she didn't need to provide for us both and I was planning it before I even met you" Nightmare said unlocking their hotel room.

Chrysalis burst into the room and dived onto the bed "It's been awhile since I've been taken into an hotel room" She winking at the alicorn. Nightmare shook her head chuckling at the innuendo as she unlatched the bags from her waist.

Chrysalis was busy rolling around in the soft sheets "How many bits do we have left?"

Nightmare shook her head "Don't worry about it" She muttered crawling under the blankets.

Chrysalis turned towards her "When you say don't worry about it, I'm gonna worry about it anyway. It's my nature to do the opposite of what you say"

Nightmare chuckled "Ok Miss. It's in my nature." She replied rolling her eyes.

Chrysalis flopped onto the alicorn's back and sighed "I have the most comfortable marefriend ever..."

Nightmare blushed at being openly called her marefriend but also puffed up in pride from the compliment.

Chrysalis gasped "Oh my Moon, Nightmare is actually taking a compliment! Somepony, call the press!"

"Shut up" The alicorn huffed sticking her tongue out. Chrysalis giggled and booped her nose "It's cute when you act silly. You're always so quiet and uptight" She complained in a soft whisper. Nightmare licked Chrysalis' cheek making the changeling shiver from horn to hoof.

"Somepony needs to have a level head or we would both be in the dungeons. Especially with your natural ability to insult short ponies."

Chrysalis hummed softly "North had it coming for calling me your marefriend"

Nightmare raised an eyebrow "Is that a bad thing? I don't recall a time when she was wrong."

Chrysalis huffed looking away "I thought you were supposed to be on my side"

"Not how a relationship works" Nightmare retorted crawling out of the bed and walking into the bathroom.

Chrysalis rolled onto her back and began looking through her holed hooves like a telescope "You know Nighty, I don't think this is the true Nightmare Moon. You're always hiding something. I mean, I won't judge you if you're as crazy as the real me"

Nightmare fell silent followed by the sound of water pounding against the floor

After a few minutes, She finally replied "I don't want to hurt you..."

"You think I can't handle you?"

"I don't think... I know you can't"

"What's so bad that I can't handle the big evil black alicorn with a phobia of anything solar"

Nightmare shot her a glare "Too far."

Chrysalis shrugged

"She's just sadistic and vengeful with little compassion for anything. She... doesn't understand relationships but longs for one. That's why I changed, why I'm so different from the way I used to be..."

Chrysalis' ears twitched as the water turned off "So was I, at one point. I admit that I was at my lowest with Cadance's wedding"

"I hurt my own sister and could have killed her"

"Did you?"

"No because the elements blasted me to the moon"

"I beat Celestia, too. I could've killed her as well"

Nightmare had no retort for that.

"You're beating yourself up for something that every bad pony has done. Well... Except Sombra.... Well I can't even say that, he had his moment one thousand years ago" Chrysalis chuckled leaning on the bathroom doorway with a warm smile.

Nightmare nodded disheartened by the realization that she was in fact a bad pony. She already knew this but having her marefriend say it hurt.

Chrysalis' warm smile turned into a goofy smile as she saw Nightmare's frown "Nighty" she cooed

"What?"

"Love you"

Nightmare blushed deeply. Her face was a dark crimson that traveled all the way to the tips of her ears. She was not expecting the phrase to be said. Her mind was running rampant with thoughts.

Was she joking? How could she love me? Why am I surprised? Respond to her, you incompetent foal!

Nightmare opened her mouth and came up with the incredible response of.

"H-Huh?"

Chrysalis cracked up laughing leaving the alicorn to literally facehoof in shame.

"Stop laughing! You said it out of the blue"

Chrysalis held her stomach as she laughed harder.

"I'm sorry it was just"

Another giggle.

"All that build up and thought on your face for you to just say... Huh?"

Nightmare sighed but it eventually turned into a smile seeing her marefriend so happy.

"You really are something special..."

10

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Chrysalis woke up and saw that Nightmare was still sleeping soundly with her wing wrapped tightly around her. The changeling almost felt bad for waking the mare. Key word: Almost.

Chrysalis snuck close to the alicorn's ear with a mischievous smirk. The unsuspecting ear just twitched in reply attempting to pick up on her movements. Chrysalis held back her laughter as she curled her hooves up around the outside of her mouth and leaned in closer.

"WAKE UP NIGHTMARE!!!"

The alicorn screamed and fell out of the bed knocking over the nightstand. Chrysalis laughed at the alicorn's dumbstruck face as her chest rose and fell quickly.

"Ok, I couldn't help myself" Chrysalis snickered

"Don't make me get the rope, Chrysalis. It's too early in the day"

Chrysalis smirked "Kinky...But I'm only into it if your stamina can keep up with your words"

Nightmare just shot her a knowing smirk before rising off the floor.

"We're going out today aren't we?"

Nightmare nodded "Yes."

Chrysalis raised her eyebrow "So... Details?"

"Suprise"

Chrysalis pouted giving Nightmare a pair of puppy dog eyes.

"Cute but not enough to get me to spill, manipulative changeling" Nightmare stated walking out of the door.

Chrysalis just huffed following after her.

-----

A disguised Nightmare and Chrysalis sat in Donut Joe's.

"Is this-"

"Nope" Nightmare interupted nibbling her eclair. Chrysalis stared at her and took a bit out of her jelly filled donut. The sweet and lightly tangy fruit burst into her mouth making her close her eyes in appreciation.

"So..."

"Breakfast."

"Oh." Chrysalis never really thought about it considering that she didn't need it.

"Believe it or not. This place was around one thousand years ago."

Chrysalis licked the jelly from her face and stared at the unicorn as she reminisced.

After a satisfying meal, the two mares began walking back to their hotel when Nightmare was tackled by a little earth pony colt. The two let out surprised yelps.

"S-Sorry Miss" He whimpered stumbling on his hooves.

Nightmare pulled him up with her magic allowing him to get a steady grounding. "Be careful. Next time, you may not meet somepony so understanding"

The colt nodded with a smile and ran past her to two ponies, who Chrysalis assumed was his parents.

"You're pretty good with foals."

Nightmare nodded "It's a trait I get from Luna"

"I see..."

The two went silent enjoying the sunlight and the liveliness of the city.

"What was she like?"

Chrysalis tilted her head

"Your daughter..."

The changeling gave a soft smile "She was alway eager to learn about her dad and try to master the powers he gifted her. By the time she was two years old, she could make little black crystals to defend herself. A smart and sassy little thing that wanted to be a queen..."

Nightmare chuckled "Sounds like the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes as they walked into the hotel lobby and up the stairs. Nightmare looked to her "Did you and Sombra talk about having a foal?"

"Sombra didn't really talk about anything besides sex and his 'crystal slaves" She mimicked his voice to prove a point. "He didn't even know I was with foal"

Nightmare's gaze turned sympathetic as Chrysalis crawled into the bed.

"Were you raped?"

Chrysalis' head snapped towards her "It isn't rape if you give consent"

"Did he take advantage of you?"

Chrysalis didn't say anything after that crawling under the blankets in shame.

Nightmare laid next to the lump in the blankets "When you said because of Queen Chrysalis, I had a daughter, You meant because of your alliance you were forced to be his toy"

Chrysalis shuffled under the blankets "He loved me... I didn't love him back... But he took advantage of my heat and gave me a foal I could not provide for" She explained in a calm voice.

Nightmare nodded silently "What did you do?"

"I told him that I didn't love him and that he could not provide for my hive any longer. I left him... Then he turned around and..." Chrysalis growled "He spread information that labeled Changelings as evil beings that fed off love and killed"

Nightmare sighed "You obviously didn't help that when you invaded Canterlot"

Chrysalis stiffened "Celestia started it... You don't know the full story"

"You sound like a foal... Be the bigger mare and use your words to explain" Nightmare growled allowing her anger to grow. She hated when ponies beated around the bush.

Chrysalis' face grew hot with anger "You don't understand! You won't understand!"

"What don't I understand. I can't help you if you don't tell me!!!" Nightmare growled.

"SHE KILLED MY DAUGHTER!!!" Chrysalis roared falling to the ground "She took my sweet little foal from me. Just because I didn't plan her, doesn't mean that I didn't love her..."

Nightmare's eyes soften at the sobbing changeling queen. Chrysalis held her chest as her throat filled with sobs that wouldn't escape.

(Flashback)

A little black changeling twirled around with her flower crown of daisies and a necklace of dandelions.

"Mommy! I've been practicing my crystals and I can make one" The foal scrunched up her face as she focused on the field. Chrysalis watched waiting for the momentous occasion "Ok..."

After a few seconds of concentration, a greenish black crystal shakily grew out of the ground "See... I told you, now you have to take me fighting with you." She sassed sticking out her tongue.

-----

Shadow looked up from her books at her fellow hive siblings as they parted for her mother. No, their mother.

Queen Chrysalis

The strongest pony in the world to her.

----

The memory faded into one of a frozen tundra.

Chrysalis could hear the thud as a spell hit her foal in the chest. Celestia's eyes were wide in horror as the foal fell into the icy revene.

"MOMMY"

Chrysalis rushed to save her foal but their hooves just grazed each other as the foal plummeted to her end.

"SHADOW!" Chrysalis screamed. The drone held her from falling in with devastated looks on their faces.

(End of Flashback)

Chrysalis nuzzled into Nightmare "She fell to her death at 3 years-old" She whispered in a hoarse voice slowing coming back to terms that her foal wasn't coming back.

Nightmare held her tighter "Chrysalis..."

The changeling looked up at her with dark depressed eyes "You don't know true sadness until you see your foal just... disappear before your eyes and you can't do anything,"

Nightmare hated seeing her like this. So she took a page from the changeling's book...

"Um I love you...?" She whispered then kissed her deeply to swallow the awkwardness. The changeling froze for a second then melted into the kiss allowing herself to forget her temporarily.

"I'm sorry, I pushed you..." She whispered against her lips.

Chrysalis shook her head "It was a thousand years ago. I'm learning to just..." She took a deep breath and let it out "let it go"

Nightmare kissed her again only a lot more roughly. Chrysalis' eyes widened slightly as she kissed back. It was like she was kissing an entirely different pony. The alicorn growled softly pushing the changeling to the ground...

.... Only to be stopped by a hoof

"We have a outing, don't we?" Chrysalis questioned with a chuckle.

Nightmare nodded silently closing her eyes gaining control over herself "I almost took advantage of you..." She whispered cursing herself silently. Chrysalis shook her head quickly "It consoled me. That's all that matters." She cooed giving the alicorn a quick kiss before crawling from underneath her. Her tail was slightly raised much to her annoyance.

Nightmare forced out a chuckled and rose from the floor hiding the frown on her face.

The two began their night walk through Canterlot in their disguises. The moon watching them as it rose from underneath the horizon.

"Nightmare?"

The unicorn was deep in thought as she walked passed many night guards. Her eyes was filled with pain and discomfort.

Nightmare.

"NIGHTY!"

"Hmm?" The unicorn finally replied looking around. They were in front of a huge tree with shimmering leaves.

"You spaced out on me..."

Nightmare sighed shaking her head "I'm sorry just thinking about the past."

(Flashback)

A little black filly walked to a tree with hooves filled with books. Books about magic and dragons.

"Why did she have to give us so much homework" She groaned flipping the book open to chapter one.

-
'Magic Bonds'

"Magic bonds are created between ponies with strong relationships. Even if it is just a passing glance, a pony can develop very strong bonds. It is unknown why this happens and if it happens with other creatures

For more information see:
Pg 26: Magical Chains
Pg 27: Siblings bonds
-

The black foal turned the page to 26 and saw a shadow hanging over her. She turned around quickly and smacked the pony in the face.

"Ow!" A filly's voice yelped.

The studying foal turned to see another black filly on the ground "I'm sorry, I just acted on instinct" She said helping the other foal to her hooves.

The other foal looked at her with beautiful glowing baby blue eyes "I- You can see me..." She whispered.

The filly raised her eyebrow "Of course, I can see you. Are you just a wallflower or...?"

The blue eyed filly shook her head quickly "I'm just talking to myself. You're studying magical bonds..."

The filly just nodded turning her emerald eyes towards the book.

-
~Magical chains

Normally made between a medium and a spirit to give the entity a body but can only be made if the pony is...
A. A medium and
B. Interacted with the spirit before
-

"Spirits..." The emerald eyed filly shuddered as the two exchanged glances. A silver shimmer graced across their irises for a moment before the blue eyed filly turned away.

"I should do back home... Nice meeting you."

"Nice to meet you too! I'm..."

----

"Nightmare!"

The unicorn yelped pulling away from the tree "It's been a while since I've been here..."

Chrysalis scowled "It feels like you're ignoring me."

Nightmare shook her head sighing "Let's go..."

The two left in a tense atmosphere. Few nobles roamed the streets and the city glowed with street lights. The black unicorn saw Luna and Celestia together in all newspapers and the changeling was mesmerized by the different things that ponies could buy in the city.

Nightmare swallowed her anger and resentment before catching up to Chrysalis who was looking at a teddy bear in a toy store window with wide eyes.

"Do you want it?"

The changeling glanced at the unicorn "Do we have enough bits for it?"

Nightmare sighed "Chrysalis..."

The changeling slowly nodded with a longing look in her eyes "It's so cute..."

The disguised alicorn walked in laughing at the changeling mentally.

Chrysalis watched as Nightmare walked back out with a similar bear but instead of a pink bow. It was green. The changeling grabbed it from the almost completely silver magical aura.

"Thank you, Nightmare"

Nightmare just shook her head with a smile continuing her walk before she could blush again. The changeling tucked the bear under her wings before running after the unicorn.

"I want to say something..." Chrysalis called after her making the unicorn stop and turn around. The changeling walked up to her "I love you. No joke this time" She whispered kissing the unicorn.

Nightmare froze for a second blinking the shock from her eyes before kissing her back.

"Love you, too" She whispered hesitantly...

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Chrysalis woke up that morning and the alicorn was nowhere to be found. She grabbed an bundle of flowers from Nightmare's bag and began eating them to hold herself over until the mare came back.

She then took a shower.

Then sat around.

Where was she? The sun was beginning to set.

The changeling began to grow cold. Did she abandon her here? Just as she was about to go and look for her there was a soft knock on the window. Chrysalis walked up to it and saw a black pegasus with piercing blue eyes.

Nightmare.

She opened in with a scowl ready to scold the mare. Nightmare flew into the bathroom with a long green dress. Chrysalis was in shock, it was elegant but not eye catching. "I flew to Ponyville in the middle of the night to have Rarity make it. She said she specializes in this type of thing" Nightmare explained.

Chrysalis smiled "I love it.." She whispered grabbing it with her magic. Nightmare smiled walking into the bathroom allowing her marefriend to get dressed. She slipped into a tightly fitted white dress herself that hugged her flank. She turned into her disguise and saw that it fit her quite well. Her flank was held by the fabric that hid her cutie-mark and it didn't restrict her ability to walk. As you rose up the dress, the material became more elegant with a glimmering collar on it.

She stepped into a pair of matching slippers that Rarity gave her and stared at herself in the mirror. She nervously looked around her body feeling strangely self concious. She was cute but her mane needed to be brushed. The unicorn fumbled with the brush as she brushed through the lavender curls. Her bang did its normal sweep over her right eye. She stood in front of the mirror and twirled. 'Ok! You got this. You're the Queen of the Night' She encouraged herself then blushed because of the way she was acting. 'Come on, Nightmare, She'll love you no matter what you wear' She assured herself but it did nothing to calm the raging storm of thoughts.

-----

Meanwhile, Chrysalis slipped on the dress and pulled her hair up into an elegant bun with a certain amount of confidence to back it up. She'd done this for more than a millennium and doing it once more wasn't going to kill her.

Her disguise, Summer Grass, as named by her marefriend was officially ready to go on this date. She wondered where they were going.

-----

Nightmare stepped out of the bathroom hesitantly and looked at Chrysalis, who stared back. She was absolutely breath-taking, her entire outfit well.... fit her.

Chrysalis was staring at Nightmare not expecting what she was seeing. The pegasus embraced the unicorn "Oh my Moon, you are absolutely adorable" She squealed

"Let's go before you squeal yourself to death" Nightmare said chuckling as the changeling contained herself. The sun beginning to set as the two mares walked out into the city.

"So where are you taking me?" Chrysalis questioned.

Nightmare gave her a mischievous smirk "Guess."

"A restaurant"

Nightmare shook her head "Too cliché"

Chrysalis giggled "A party"

"Close but no"

"A bar?"

Nightmare shook her head and snickered "You'll find out"

"Please tell meeeee" Chrysalis whined impatiently.

Nightmare shook her head and dragged the changeling to an very beautiful building. She dragged her in and Chrysalis' eyes instantly met with Twilight and Luna's.

"Double date!" Nightmare said with a smile. Chrysalis shook her head at her marefriend's foalish excitement "Cute" She whispered booping the unicorn on the muzzle before sitting next to Twilight.

"Tis our first double date as well!" Luna announced bumping hooves with Nightmare. The unicorn hesitantly hoof bumped her with a small uncomfortable smile.

"They are so similar it's almost scary" Twilight whispered making Chrysalis burst into snickers. Chrysalis looked at Twilight's light blue dress with silver stars all over it. "Your dress is pretty." She commented.

Twilight smiled "Yours too. I like the elegant but simple vibe"

"Did Luna drag you here and tell you it was a surprise" Twilight laughed and nodded. "Night Tide sent her a letter by guard from what Luna told me" The two excited mare sat down at the table across from their respective lovers.

"So what are we doing here?" Chrysalis questioned.

Twilight smiled "We are trying something that Luna made herself" She whispered.

Chrysalis stiffened "You let a royal alicorn make something"

Twilight giggled "Trust me. It's fine, the chefs made it for tonight but Luna created the idea" She assured as the royal chefs walked in with a huge plate.

On the plate was a cresent moon of ranch surrounded by 4 stars with golden cheese and freshly cut vegetables of all kinds.

"It's like a fondue but with ranch and cheese. Remind me how is it that we haven't come up with this until now?" Chrysalis questioned.

The other 3 mares just shrugged sticking their vegetables on their sticks.

Twilight dipped her carrot into the ranch "I've never been on a double date but this just seems like a normal get together with couples"

Chrysalis shhed her "Don't break their spirit" She whispered dipping her broccoli in some cheese. Twilight's mouth became an 'O' as she went silent. Luna and Nightmare however were having the time of their lives talking about many things that had changed from when they were young. It was hard to believe that Luna hadn't caught on yet. But Nightmare looked strange... Enraged even.

"What are you going to do tomorrow?" Twilight asked.

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow "Why?"

Twilight looked at her like she was the dumbest pony in the universe "Full moon. I can't stay in the castle according to Luna so I was going to ask where you guys are staying..."

Chrysalis sighed at the friendly reminder that every full moon, her lover was going to be a sex hungry beast. "I don't know. I think me and Nighty are going to leave town for that night" Chrysalis dodged effectively. Twilight's ears fell a bit "Oh ok... I'll just find myself a room somewhere. I wonder why I can't stay in the castle that night..."

The other two mares were staring at them. Nightmare looking slightly peeved and Luna having a pleased smile on her face.

"What?" Twilight and Chrysalis asked at the same time shoving a piece of asparagus in their mouth. The two then looked at each other "Oh no... We're copying each other" They stated.

They groaned at the same time sliding down their seats.

Chrysalis looked at Twilight "Great minds think alike. Maybe?" She suggested awkwardly.

Twilight smiled.

After a while of talking, the mares watched as Luna lifted up a bottle of a silvery wine. "I brought with me, one of the most rarest wines in Equis to celebrate the occasion. Only accessible by the royal family."

Nightmare's eyes widened at the bottle "Moonshine!" She stated. Everyone was stunned by the sudden statement making the unicorn quickly shrink in shame.

Luna stared at her pouring a cup for everypony at the table "How do you know about it?"

Nightmare squirmed "I am the daughter of a noble"

"A toast to our relationships! Cheers!" Luna announced after a skeptical nod.

"Cheers!" Everypony echoed bumping their glasses together making delightful rings.

Chrysalis took a sip and instantly her mouth was filled with a delicious burning sweetness. "Oh wow!" She commented before taking another sip.

"I know right. It's delicious..." Twilight gasped at the cup

Nightmare was silently drinking hers while sending Luna a sideways glare. Chrysalis watched silently.

Luna smiled puffing up in pride "It's made from pure moonlight that's has been magically fermented through a secret process"

Chrysalis and Twilight nodded swirling the alcohol around in their glasses.

"So did you make it?" Chrysalis questioned

Luna smirked "I am the Princess of the Moon. It is quite simple really"

Nightmare snorted softly turning away. The room suddenly grew quiet as tension filtered in.

After a few minutes, the lunar diarch broke the silence.

"Do you have a problem with me?" Luna questioned.

Nightmare just shook her head staring the lunar alicorn down.

The tension grew tighter until Twilight and Chrysalis were literally choking on it.

Chrysalis grabbed Nightmare and attempted to drag her away but the disguised alicorn wouldn't move.

"Luna... Let's just go" Twilight urged pulling the blue alicorn

Luna ignored her narrowing her glaze. Nightmare suddenly began to chuckle making Luna angrier "What dost thou find so amusing" She growled slipping back into her archaic dialect.

Nightmare just shook her head "It's not worth it" She then walked out followed closely by Chrysalis.

"What was that!" She exclaimed

"..." Nightmare's tail flicked angrily "I hate the way she acts all high and mighty. I hate the way they all act all high and mighty!"

Chrysalis watched as Nightmare paced

"Oh I'm Princess Luna, I'm the lunar diarch of Equestria. I had a fight with my sister and got banished to the moon but now that I'm back I have so many ponies that love and appreciate me. Oh! I'm Princess Celestia, for some reason I'm the best at procrastinating and sealing threats away until they come back to bite me in the flank" She mocked her disguise withering as her lavender mane began to rise of its own accord.

Chrysalis slipped under the unicorn's neck snuggling into the sensitive area. "Do you envy Luna...?"

Nightmare flinched as if she'd been struck. Her weak facial expression quickly hardened "Why would I even be envious of what she has. She just has a bunch of ponies lined up to kiss her flank just because she was jealous of her sister. Our sister! And our 'sister' isn't much better!" Nightmare's illusion spell was starting to glitch and crackle with power.

"My parents abandoned ME after I was born! They didn't even give ME a proper chance at life. They left ME! A silver foal that never even had a chance at life. Then this alicorn comes along and changes ME! She turns me into this blue alicorn and overwrites me. I'm the forgotten sister. ME! ME! MEEEEEEE!!!" She roared in her royal canterlot voice making all of the buildings shake. Windows cracked and burst under the sheer power.

The alicorn, Chrysalis knew wasn't there. It was a silver furred alicorn glaring at her with glowing white eyes and gritted teeth. Chrysalis flinched at the power. This was the true Nightmare Moon.

-----

They say there are two sides to every story. The good and the bad. And sometimes the bad can secretly be the good. Everything has a back story so let's start with those bad days.

A filly was born to a earth pony couple on the edge of Equestria. She was as white and pale as the moon looming over them in the sky. The foal babbled reaching out to her guardians only for them to turn their backs. The young couple left the foal on the hill with nopony but the moon to comfort her.

The silver orb in the sky was her only witness as the air grew cold. The foal's stomach growled from hunger and her lips trembled growing blue around the edges. It didn't take her long to realize nopony would save her. She stopped whimpering for her parents and grew still.

There... The foal died with no witnesses to see.

Suddenly, there was a beating of wings in the distance followed by the sound of hooves touching the ground. Another beautiful white filly gleamed in the moonlight "Such a shame... You're so beautiful" She muttered gently nudging her silver mane out of her face.

"No magic can bring back the dead... But maybe..." She trailed off focusing her magic into her horn.

The clock struck midnight as the foal was lifted off the ground in a swirl of white magic. Her mane turned blue and fell in curls down her back. Her fur became a darker shade of blue. Her DNA was changed to be similar the mare's own DNA.

She whined softly as a horn grew from her head and wings burst from her back. She gently floated to the ground sucking on a hoof. Her turquoise eyes slowly fluttered open and lit up as the moon pulsed with light taking the young foal in.

The white filly smiled as the blue foal reached out its hooves towards the moon. "Ma-ma" She babbled kicking her hind hooves. The white filly picked her up and smiled at her confused gaze "I'm your sister, Celestia, and I'll name you, Luna" She cooed nuzzling her tummy. Luna giggled and babbled grabbing Celestia's horn in her tiny hooves.

Celestia giggled as Luna put the horn in her mouth and began to nom on it with her gums "Lulu! No that tickles" Celestia squealed. Luna let out a squeal of her own before giggling. The two alicorns shrieked with laughter as the night gave way to the morning.

-------

"Loneliness... Tis what we signed up for when we agreed to be the child of the moon, Is it not?" A low voice whispered into the darkness.

Chrysalis flinched "Nightmare! Where are you?"

The mare of darkness didn't move.

-------

Twins: 5 years old

Luna smiled playing with the little silverish white alicorn foal that she called...

"Moon! Push me!" The little blue alicorn squealed holding tightly onto the swing chains.

"O-Ok" She stood on her hind hooves as pushed the alicorn on the swing.

"Luna! You're supposed to be practicing your magic not swinging!" An older white foal with a pink mane.

"I was just playing with Moon, Celly..." She whispered

Celestia sighed "I don't care about your imaginary friends, Luna. Just get back to practicing your magic before you get us in trouble with Starswirl"

Moon's face scrunched up at being called imaginary. She was right in front of her. Her hooves slowly turned black. "I'm not imaginary!" She yelled pushing the mean alicorn but she fell right through. Luna slowly left the other foal without looking back.

Moon waved "Goodbye!"

She didn't receive a response from the little blue alicorn foal.

-------

Twins: 10 years old

Luna was older and training with the knights. Swords and shields replaced toys. She cut her hair short and honed her swordsmare ship. Moon sat ignored at her side. She was fully black now and her eyes filled with self hatred. Luna walked over in her direction.

"Hi..."

Luna walked past her not even sparing a glance. The black foal fought tears. Nopony knew she even existed. All she wanted was a friend...

-----

20.

30.

40.

50.

60.

100.

500.

1000.

2000.

3000.

4000.

Twins: 5000 years old

Luna grew older and gained her ethereal mane with stars. Moon grew too with her own ethereal mane that was even more vibrant compared to her fur. Bursts of space dust and gorgeous supernovae.

"How could Celestia ignore me like that." Luna cried flopping into her bed and covering her face with a pillow.

Moon tapped her on the cheek "Mayhaps if thou-"

Luna sent her the most spine-chilling glare "Why art thou even still here... Leave us be!" She spat.

Moon flinched as her once bright baby blue eyes filled with even more self hatred. She gulped and curled into a ball like a pet in a corner. Luna wouldn't let her in the bed and nopony else could see her.

Perhaps if nobody could see her.

She would make them see her....

------

Luna walked to the throne room to confront her sister. Her night had been ignored for far too long. It was time to have a serious talk.

Moon snuck quietly out of Luna's view. If Luna wasn't going to give her the attention she deserved then she would ruin the alicorn's reputation so she wouldn't gain any attention either...

'Is this a good things to do' A small part of her asked but was ignored as the teenage alicorn watched from afar waiting for her time to strike.

"Luna! You must lower the moon, it is your duty"

Luna scoffed "So I should just stand around while they all bask in your precious daylight!"

"Yes!" Nightmare thought it as Celestia said it

Celestia bit her lip "Ok! Luna, please talk to me. I'm your sister, I wish to help"

Nightmare's smile grew wide as the lunar princess's resolve weaken. It was her time to shine.

Her horn glowed as she casted herself into the adolescent alicorn taking over her thoughts and actions.

"NO! THE NIGHT SHALL LAST FOREVER!!!" She roared blasting the solar diarch. Celestia screamed as the blast singed her sensitive wing. The solar diarch prepared to fight her sisters as her gaze hardened.

----

Chrysalis could hear the muffled sound of ragged breathing and soft whines. There was a little white filly curled up.

The changeling's eyes softened at the adorable thing "Hi. What's your name..." She asked in a soft voice.

"I-I'm Moon. I call myself, Nightmare." The filly whispered twirling a strand of silver mane.

Chrysalis nodded "Why are you so sad, sweetie?" She asked

"My twin sister ignores me and pretends I don't exist. It hurts inside but I have to hide it because she hates me and if I talk to her... She gets mad"

Chrysalis curled herself around the filly "Your sister sounds like a meanie"

The filly rolled her baby blue eyes " I'm just so lonely... Nopony loves me. I met this changeling one day. She was my first friend..."

Chrysalis' eyes widened "Oh really what was she like?"

"She was really funny and goofy. I was surprised she could see me. I made her a bear from yarn and gave it to her for Hearthswarming. She was really happy..."

Chrysalis bit her lip as tears fell down her face "I'm sure she was..."

------

Chrysalis stared across at Moon as the silver around them swirled. The two were closely cuddled against each other as Chrysalis talked about her foalhood.

"Did you have someone you love?"

Chrysalis nodded "She's as beautiful as the moon itself"

Moon smiled "She must be very pretty then."

Chrysalis chuckled laying down on her back "Gorgeous... I just hope that she find it in her heart to forgive and forget"

Moon's eyes shimmered with confusion and a tinge of rage "Why should she?"

Chrysalis picked up the foal "I don't like to say sappy things like this but I hate that she's so unhappy. Every time I see her it's like she pushes everyone away"

The white foal giggled wiggling in happiness as the changeling tossed her up into the air "Maybe she just needs someone to talk to... someone on her side" She suggested as her body began to fade.

Chrysalis smiled "Still cute even though you're tiny, Nightmare."

Moon began to slowly turned black but she was smiling at the changeling "Thank you, you didn't need to worry about me but you did..."

Chrysalis smirked "You can't get rid of me that easily." She chuckled before a white glow enveloped the entire barrier including Chrysalis. The changeling felt warm the glow dimmed.

Nightmare then stood in the filly's place.

Chrysalis nuzzled the alicorn "I love you"

Nightmare smiled "I love you too"

Chrysalis smiled leaning against the black alicorn beginning to glow herself.

On the outside, Luna, Celestia, and Twilight watched in awe at the giant silver ball of roaring magic.

"She said that you both were her sister" Twilight questioned. Luna looked to Celestia with a questioning gaze. Even the solar alicorn looked confused.

"We have no other sister..."

"Especially not Nightmare Moon" Luna added in disgust. But that didn't banish the feel in her mind and stomach that she was wrong.

The silver ball of magic calmed to a low hum of magic.

"If Night Tide was Nightmare Moon then Summer Grass had to be Chrysalis? I'm just going off coloration unless Summer Grass is real..."

"Chrysalis and Nightmare Moon?" Celestia raised an eyebrow quizzically.

"We'll explain later..."

-----

Within the giant ball of magic, Chrysalis sat with an older Nightmare, whispering sweet nothings into each others ears. The black alicorn wasn't changing but instead the changeling was beginning to glow.

The chain was strong between them as Chrysalis unconsciously gave her love to the alicorn.

Chrysalis was lifted into the air by this white glow. The little filly flashed in Chrysalis' eyes before allowing her to be into the changeling's chest.

After a while, the changeling fell to the ground and looked down "What happened! I'm still the same..." She complained. Nightmare chuckled "I wouldn't say that..."

In her hooves, was a doll. That little teddy bear proudly wearing his black patches. His head was adorned with a crown of silver flowers and Chrysalis' eyes held a inner layer of baby blue around her pupil. Her body glowed with moonlight.

"Oh come on! I thought I was going to get an epic transformation where I completely change from giving my love to you"

Nightmare chuckled dryly "Something tells me that you'd be better off like this..."

Chrysalis didn't agrue with the alicorn but instead kissed her.

"You scared me..."

Nightmare nuzzled her "I scared the big bad changeling queen" She gasped

Chrysalis glared at her "I regret teaching you sarcasm."

Nightmare snickered as the changeling rolled off of her onto the ground.

"You're so beautiful..." Chrysalis whispered looking deep into the alicorn's eyes. Nightmare smiled crawling in between her leg and closing the distance "Why thank you my good changeling and might I say you look absolutely gorgeous as well" Nightmare said in a noble voice. Chrysalis scoffed slapping Nightmare's chest "You always have to show me up"

Nightmare chuckled crawling closer "Only when you try to out compliment me, my beautiful Queen Chrysalis" She whispered in a husky voice nipping her ear.

Chrysalis shivered from horn to hoof biting her lip "And you call me the succubus..." She breathed right before the alicorn captured her lips in a passionate kiss.

[Scene Distorted]

"Goodnight..." Nightmare whispered teleporting the changeling away before allowing the magical barrier to fall. What awaited her was a magical inhibitor and chains from the royal guards.

Twilight and the princesses watched anxiously awaiting the moment when the alicorn would fight back but it never came as she was dragged away.

12

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Chrysalis woke up with a gasp in her hotel room. The sun was gleaming into the window making the sheets warmer than usual from summer heat. But somehow, the bed was empty and cold making her ears droop. 'Did she-' The changeling's thought was interrupted by a sudden magical message. Nobody had sent her a message in that way in a thousand years. The only creatures that even remember the spell are dragons.

------
Forgive me...

~NM
---
Chrysalis re-read over the letter multiple times before staring at the ceiling with a frustrated sigh.

"She has truly left me here..." The changeling whispered holding the message to her chest. She was trembling underneath the soft hotel blankets. She wasn't scared. Nor was she hurt.

She was enraged.

And betrayed...

After a few minutes of breathing, Chrysalis stood up and began packing her things. Her mind flicked through the many reasons that the black alicorn would abandon her. She snarled under her breath walking towards the door.

She squealed as she tripped over something and fell to the ground. The changeling turned to see a silver helmet on the ground. It was elegantly sculpted with few chips and scorch marks on it. She grabbed it with a bitter grimace before shoving it into her bag. 'I guess she forgot it in her hurry to escape...' She thought to herself.

She chose a new disguise of a golden unicorn mare with a cobalt mane before closing the door to the hotel room.
---

Chrysalis walked through Canterlot paying close attention to the citizens that seemed even more chattier than usual.

She just let it roll through her head until she heard a familiar name.

"Did you hear? Nightmare Moon is back."

"Are you sure?"

"Indeed. She caused a ruckus downtown and was taken by the guards."

"Thank Celestia! I don't think I would ever be able to sleep if that ruffian was still wandering the city"

Chrysalis' eyes widened slightly. 'Taken in by guards?' She thought to herself until she was thrown to the ground by a sudden display of force.

"I'm so sorry!" A familiar voice yelped pulling the changeling to her hooves.

Chrysalis looked up to see the same lavender mare that was there that night. The same lavender mare that thwarted her plans to take over Canterlot.

"Twilight Sparkle."

The lavender alicorn gathered her notes from the ground and looked up at the disguised changeling. "Are you hurt?" She questioned. Chrysalis shook her head quickly and remembered something.

"What is this I hear about Nightmare Moon?" She questioned. The alicorn paused for a second before looking around "Nightmare Moon turned herself in but refuses the disclose the location of her accomplice"

Chrysalis faked a gasp "She was working with someone. Who would do such a thing!" She exclaimed in mock rage.

The lavender alicorn nodded in agreement "Her name's Summer Grass but she's not registered anywhere in the Equestrian Documents"

The changeling gave a thoughtful look "Strange..." She whispered. 'Our of all of the Equestrian names, not one Summer Grass? What a bitter twist of irony...'

Twilight nodded with a thoughtful look, glazing slightly into the disguised changeling's eyes. Chrysalis raised an eyebrow backing away "Excuse me-"

"Twilight!" A southern accented voice called out from the crowd making the changeling breathe a sigh of relief. They both turned to see the rest of the element barers behind them tailed by a cautious guard.

AppleJack.

Fluttershy.

Pinkie Pie.

Rainbow Dash.

And Rarity.

Something about the situation chilled the former changeling queen to the bone. All of the elements... in Canterlot followed by a guard. Nightmare imprisoned. This entire situation put her in a very uncomfortable stand point. Would she rush into the Castle and demand her mate? She didn't know.

So as the elements met up, the changeling snuck away and lit her horn with a teleportation spell. She needed to regroup and plan.

"Take me to North." She whispered pinching the bridge of her muzzle before disappearing into a burst of emerald green magic

----- 2 hours later ------

The unicorn's mouth was turned up into an uncomfortable grimace. Chrysalis' hoof tapped the ground impatiently at the slowly trickled away. Precious second. Minutes. Her mate was in danger and she had the deep rooted urge to fly off to Canterlot and confront Celestia herself...

"North!"

The unicorn hummed in response only increasing the changeling's frustration. She couldn't feel any emotions from the zebra/unicorn hybrid and it spawned more stress.

"Did you hear what I have just said to you!"

"Do not yell at me. I'm fully aware of the issue but you're aren't going to like my response" North sighed. Chrysalis raised an eyebrow leaning onto the small coffee table. It squeaked under her weight as she stared the unicorn with a gaze filled with resolve.

"She's the first pony who's loved me for me and I'll be damned if I let her rot away in that cell." She spat tensing up like a lion ready to pounce on her prey. North backed away as the changeling queen leaned closer to her face with a look of feral determination.

The unicorn sighed.

Then squirmed.

"You need to talk to them..."

Chrysalis froze for a moment allowing the words to register in her mind before rising from the couch. Her horn glowed with a metallic green tone before she disappeared completely taking the unicorn with her.

North held her head feeling the world spin all of a sudden before she looked around. They were in...

"Are you absolutely insane! Why would you teleport us directly into her room!" North hissed "Are you not in your right mind!"

Both of them stiffened as the doorknob turned before an unsuspecting baby dragon walked in. He looked up ans froze, his emerald eyes widening "Ch-Ch-Ch-CHANGELING!!!" He screamed.

Instantly, hoovesteps where heard on the staircase followed by a series of yells as 6 mares burst into the room. Twilight froze first meeting Chrysalis' eyes head on. The rest followed suit adjusting the amulets on their chest that shone with the Elements of Harmony.

Twilight's face quickly turn sceptical "Why are you here unless..."

Chrysalis' grimace before a stoic smile "Twilight Sparkle... It seems that you're beloved princesses have stolen something that belongs to me." Her gaze turned dark "And I want it back."

13

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"All those here for Nightmare Moon's trial, please rise" Celestia commanded.

Many ponies rose up from their seats and bowed respectfully to the alicorn before waiting their time to speak. The court was tense in atmosphere remembering the mare from the moon that imprisoned their princesses.

Meanwhile, Nightmare sat peacefully meditating in a cell as the door creaked open followed by the clacking of hoof shoes on pavement.

"Tis truly a delight to see you face to face, Princess Luna." She said calmly with an undertone of mischief. Luna was completely stoic as she watched the guard unlock the cell door.

"Explain to me this... A powerful villian is able to sneak into Canterlot. She causes a ruckus downtown and then surrenders without a fight"

Nightmare shrugged "Seems pretty suspicious."

Luna leaned closer "More like it doesn't add up."

The black alicorn chuckled dryly "Princess Luna. You of all ponies know that a swordsmare is always aware when she's defeated."

The blue alicorn's eyes narrowed "But you are not..."

"You have no idea how defeated I am. You have no idea who I am!"

Luna flinched at the deathly tone of Nightmare's voice. Even in chains, the black mare stood over her with a narrowed gaze. She let out a sigh "I can't even fathom what is running through your head. You could face execution for your offenses"

Nightmare's wings ruffled against its bounds in frustration "I cannot die"

"What"

"I CANNOT DIE!" She roared. The walls seemed to bend outwards from the blatant show of power.

Luna stared wide eyed as guards rushed in and hurried her away but the lunar princess's mind could not stop drifting back to the 3 words.

Cannot.

Die.

----

Chrysalis stared at the 7 mares and the dragon that occupied the room. The tension steadily thickened in the room as the elements just stared at their former enemy.

North decided to break the silence before she choked "So... Umm"

Immediately, Chrysalis placed her hoof to her muzzle and began talking. "I've come to make a temporary truce."

Twilight thought for a second staring at the changeling queen. Her magic couldn't detect any other changelings. It was strange.

"You're alone." She stated.

"All my children are dead. Yes." She whispered.

Gasps of horror rippled through the 6 elements as if she'd said the most forbidden word in pony vocabulary.

Fluttershy covered her mouth with a soft whine "You poor thing..."

Chrysalis scoffed "I don't need your sympathy now. My children have succumb to their faith but what I need right now is-"

"How could ya say that about yer family. Yer own children" AppleJack almost snarled gaining hums of approval from 2 of the other mares, Rarity and Fluttershy. The latter of whom was barely audible edging on a squeak.

Chrysalis stood up getting in the earth pony's face as North dug in her bag gripping something in her magical grasp.

"You have no idea what I've been through-"

"Everypony, please!" Pinkie begged "Let's stop fighting"

Chrysalis hissed baring her fangs at them before lowering back into a sitting position. North relaxed slightly taking rein of the situation.

"Nightmare means a lot to Chrysalis... And me. She's a dear friend to us" North stated

Twilight's eyes seemed to brighten a bit with a smudge of hope "Please explain."

"Twi... You really are going to give them a chance they are friends with-" AppleJack was interrupted by her own shudder

"I agree, Darling and the way they just barged in. So uncouth!" Rarity added

Chrysalis snarled under her breath "Aren't you the so called Princess of Friendship but you ponies are nothing more then a joke! False promises and discrimination!" A sudden tingle trailed down her cheek "You and your disgusting princess!"

Chrysalis had had enough of the lies of these ponies. She would get her lover back even if she had to force them. North sent her a look that said: "Whatever you chose, I'm with you"

Then Chrysalis just smirked with a nod. Their eyes glowing with villainous friendship.

The mane 6 all voiced their disagreements with Chysalis' outburst. Fury was apparent in their eyes. So loyal to their perfect pony princess.

"QUIET!" North shouted stunning everyone temporarily. The hybrid got in the middle of everyone holding a flask.

"Who are you?" Rainbow questioned.

She opened the flask "Go to sleep"

Suddenly, a gold vapor swept around the elements making them all drop like flies. Spike groaned "Twilight..." before eventually succumbing to unconsciousness.

Twilight's eyes widened as North appeared in front of her with a protective barrier. Chrysalis stood behind them with her own barrier. Her eyes glowing a mix of blue and green.

Twilight stuttered "I-I...."

North backed out of her barrier making it smaller "You will help us."

Chrysalis looked on with a smirk droping her own barrier as Twilight squirmed her own horn glowing to create an opposing barrier.

"Stupid Twilight... Were you truly so stupid to not barrier your friends in safety magic" Chrysalis tsked.

"Chrysalis don't do this! I'll help you" She begged holding her rushed barrier spell up with her wings.

"Oh, Twilight..." She cooed with a chuckle "Of course, you will."

North looked at Chrysalis whose horn lit up and with a flash of magic, they were gone.
------

Suddenly appearing in Canterlot castle, North released Twilight, who attempted to scream before a hoof was shoved in her mouth. Chrysalis then replaced the hybrid in Twilight's line of vision.

"You will go and distracted the guards while we find Nightmare" She stated as Twilight stared deep into her mesmerizing emerald eyes suddenly her eyes became a similar green.

"Yes, my queen..." she droned walking away. Her body lugging itself similar to a changeling drone.

Chrysalis and North waited a few moments before looking down the hallway seeing no guards. They smiled at each other before sneaking through the hallways.
----

Meanwhile, Twilight Sparkle ran up to the guards panting heavily "I saw a changeling!" She exclaimed.

The guards in the hallway all jolted rushing to see if the princess was alright.

"Where did it go, Princess."

Twilight pointed her hoof the opposite way from where she came "I saw it running towards the courtyard from the other side of the hallway," She sobbed "Hurry! I don't want somepony to end up like Shiny and Cadance"

The guard looked at each other with determined look "We'll protect you, Princess, don't worry. Private! Take the princess to her room and alert any guards you see on the way"

"Yessir" He yelped helping Twilight up and leading her away as the other guards ran to find the changeling.

Twilight smiled over her shoulder as her eyes glowed evilly.

14

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Chrysalis walked through the hallway disguised as a guard as North hid the unconscious guard in a closet.

"We're close... My spell says so..."

Chrysalis nodded in acknowledgment before walking towards the entrance to the dungeons. Suddenly, North pulled her to the side.

"Help me!" She whisper-yells as she struggles to put on a maid outfit.

"Why the heck!" She snarled lowly as they heard hoovesteps from the hallway.

The two bickered as a guard passed them "Soldier?"

Chrysalis shot up noticing how this looked. A half dressed maid with a guard standing over her. Still she kept her face stoic. "Yessir" She responded.

He stared at her for a long time then turned to North...

"Get back to work, you two. This is your warning" He scolded walking off.

"Yessir" they both whispered sighing as North slipped on her disguise.

Slowly, they crept towards the dungeons and the guards stood up straight watching Chrysalis' approach.

"Is their something you need, Soldier"

"Yes. Princess Celestia told me to check on the prisoner"

They looked at each other before hesitantly stepping aside. Chrysalis nodded slowly walking passed them.

She stepped in the prison scowling at the dust and grime. This was not the place for Nightmare to be.

When she got to the end of the cells, Nightmare sat there calmly.

"Nightmare!" She whispered

"What does your princess want with me this time" She said in a monotonous voice

"Nighty... Its me" The changeling queen dropped her disguise.

Nightmare's eyes widened as she jolted awake "Chrysalis!"

"I came to find you"

"No! Oh my...." Nightmare sunk to the ground "Are you mad?! This is completely unacceptable! What have you done?!"

Chrysalis flinched as they both glanced into each other's eyes "What...."

"You've walked right into her trap..."

Chapter 14 1/2

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Celestia walked down the hallway beside her sister.

"Are you thinking about what Twilight Sparkle said about Chrysalis being behind this"

"Yes and this development is worrying me... In many ways."

"Explain."

Celestia sighed "It happened not long after your banishment..."
-----

The crunch of hooves on snow and ice. The clang of armour and weapons. This was all that filled the ears of a teenage Celestia.

Her smile was forced. Her eyes swollen red from crying the night before.

"Today we got a warning from a sister nation. The Crystal Empire has been an ally for longer than anypony can remember. Apparently before their disappearance, a swarm of evil creatures took over their kingdom and mind controlled their king into insanity."

Growls and gasps rippled through the guards.

"From our intel, these creatures are called changelings and they are creature who drain ponies of their love and affection" Celestia's eyes burned with new-found determination "For the Empire!"

"For the Princess! For the Empire! PRAISE THE SUN!" They chanted over and over.

----

"Well that doesn't sound so bad, Sister..."

Celestia's ears fell as shame reared its ugly head. Words lodged themselves in her throat and made it hard to breathe. Luna watched as her sister paled as if she was going to vomit.

Tears streamed down her face in rivers as her stomach flopped in her stomach. She knew she'd done something horrible and Luna knew too.

"I didn't mean to..." She croaked as her crown slipping from her ears down her silky flowing mane and hitting the floor with a defeated 'Clack'

"I know..." Luna replied. In all honesty, she didn't know but it seemed the right thing to say. She didn't prod the obviously sore subject.

Suddenly, a soft sheen of blue magic picked up her fallen crown. Cadence had walked into the room and although heavily pregnant maneuvered around with angelic grace and poise.

"Cadance. Luna." Celestia sobbed "I'm so sorry for everything..."

The two alicorns looked confused before she began explaining.

She started with finding Chrysalis' hive in the Frozen Wastelands of the North. The years of struggle in the war against changelings. Chrysalis' defeat...

And the death of her daughter...

The filly that she murdered

Luna and Cadence listened with horror in the faces. The pregnant alicorn looking a bit paler now than when she first walked in.

The moon shone through the window as if it was glaring directly at Celestia. All was silent in the halls of stained glass for a moment.

"Sister..."

Celestia wiped away her tears along with ruffled hairs from her mane. Although she could still taste the salt and hair and mucus bubbled from her snout, this was the most emotion that Celestia had shown to them. Ever..

She was acting so equine that it caught them off guard.

"Tia..." Luna wipes her tears with a midnight blue wing "We are not the ones you should be apologizing to..."

Celestia sniffed blushing a bit "You're right... We need a plan to capture Chrysalis"

Luna nodded "I think that I may have an idea..."

Chapter 15

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Chrysalis was instantly on guard.

A loud spark sounded before a bright flash filled the entire dungeon and Celestia appeared. A hiss burst from the changeling's muzzle as she pawed the ground.

"Wait, Chrysalis! I'm not-"

Chrysalis tackled the alicorn and many bursts of magic followed.

"Chrysalis!" North called from the doorway throwing an unconcious guard at the alabaster alicorn. Her wing flew open in surprise as she caught the unfortunate stallion.

North rushed to the cage and struggled putting the key into the lock.

"North. Hurry." Chrysalis rushed watching as the alicorn princess rose up from the ground shaking herself off.

"My hooves are shaking too much!" She complained attempting to calm her shaking limp.

"NORTH! USE YOUR MAGIC!" Chrysalis screeched as Celestia began walking over to them with a stumble in her step.

"Oh...whoops." North whispered gaining a glare from the changeling queen.

North easily slid the key into the lock and opened the cage. Chrysalis' horn glowed with a bright silver glow before a powerful blast hit Celestia square in the chest destroying the gem in the middle of her regalia. Celestia hissed powering her magic and running towards them.

"Holy fudge!" North whispered falling over.

"Nightmare!" Chrysalis screamed closing her eyes in preparation for the pain.

But there was no impact.

Chrysalis opened her eyes to see Nightmare standing over her with a furious expression. Her horn was pressed up against Celestia's as they pressed their weight against each other.

Celestia gasped in pain "Chrysalis. I am not your enemy. I just wish I could... Make amends"

Chrysalis was trembling at this point as her eyes swirled with renewed tears.

Suddenly, there was a temporary truce between the two alicorns as other guards rushed in.

"Princess! Princess Twilight has been controlled by a changeling."

Celestia nodded in acknowledgement before turning back to Nightmare who stood protectively over Chrysalis and North.

"It seems that you have learned the magic of friendship" Celestia stated towards Nightmare who snorted.

"No thanks to you."

Celestia turned towards Chrysalis "I wish to apologize and I- No, you should decide when you wish to forgive me"

Chrysalis grimaced as Luna and Cadence joined them in the already crowded dungeon.

"Why.... Should I forgive you. What have you ever done for me! You didn't even help me during the invasion. You just attacked me!" Chrysalis screamed at Celestia powering her magic.

There was a stand off between the two as Chrysalis glared at the pony princess.

Before something that was unheard of happened.

Celestia's head lowered to the ground til her muzzle hit the floor. She had bowed to Chrysalis in genuine apology.

Chrysalis squirmed as Cadance and Luna stared as if Celestia was a completely different equine.

"It has plagued me for some time. I never acquired forgiveness from you." The alicorn forced out "I humbly ask for your forgiveness... Please."

"Only if you let my beloved walk out of here. Then I will consider forgiveness" Chrysalis stated almost instantly in concern for the fate of her lover.

Nightmare's eyes widened "Chrysalis..."

The alicorn princesses were all struck speechless by the proposition. Cadance could be seen with a slight curl on the ends of her lips.

"Yea!" North stuck her two bits in.

"That is impossible. My subjects will want a trial or they will never feel safe."

"Not my problem, I guess you don't want my forgiveness" Chrysalis hissed as her eyes glowed evilly.

Celestia shook her head to rid herself of the uncomfortable sensation in her head.

"Princess!" Twilight's voice rang out before emerald colored blood splattered across the ground.

Nightmare screamed in anguish as Chrysalis' body fell to the ground. Luna and Cadence were frozen in shock watching the scene unfold.

Everything moved in slow motion.

----
Nightmare!

Wake up!
----

The black alicorn shot up to see Chrysalis at her side. Bandages were wrapped around her torso.

"It was real..."

"Yes." A voice responded.

Nightmare shot up to see Luna at her bedside with a distraught looking Twilight Sparkle.

"YOU!" Nightmare growled at the lavender alicorn. Tears fell from Twilight's eyes as she hid behind Luna.

Nightmare attempted to move but her body wouldn't cooperate.

"What have you done to me?!"

"Paralysis spell. I want an explanation"

"I don't owe you shi-" Nightmare was interrupted by a striped hoof being placed on her muzzle.

"They have feed me, gave you guys a bed, after the fiasco 2 days ago"

"2 days!" Nightmare screeched.

"Chrysalis is in critical condition from Twilight's attack. She might have a lasting scar but that's all from what we know. Especially given our lack of knowledge on changeling anatomy."

Nightmare snarled lowly at herself for allowing this to happen.

"I-" Twilight spoke up "I'm so sorry."

Nightmare glared at her with cold, unfeeling eyes before chuckling dryly "Sorry... Is that all there is to say?"

Twilight flinched at her cold tone slipping more and more behind the lunar princess.

"Why is it that you're always in our way... We were all happy until your 'princess' decided we were a threat. She's done more than us and less than you! She's killed a foal and started wars yet, she won't lift a hoof to help you when you need it. Instead she sends a group of hormonal teenage mares to save the world from threats, some of which aren't even there!" Twilight looked away from the black alicorn in what appeared to be thought.

"..." Twilight attempted to make words but she could barely muster up a rebuttal.

"Enough with your senseless patriotism. Leave my sight!" The alicorn snarled.

Twilight teared up running away with her tail between her legs.

Then there was Luna, who watched with a grim expression before following Twilight out of the door.

The silence left behind by the two mares was deafening. The only thing that made any noise was the soft, weak breathes of the changeling beside Nightmare.

The dark alicorn sighed lying down and loosely wrapping a wing around the queen's torso. It had happened so fast.
-----

"CHRYSALIS!" Nightmare screamed in anguish holding her body in her hooves. Twilight froze in fear as the alicorn turned her gaze towards her.

North sobbed in the background as guards dragged her away.

"I'll kill you!" Nightmare growled allowing the purple unicorn to get a glimpse of her sharp fangs.

"No!" Cadance and Luna exclaimed before a piercing blue magic hit the dark alicorn in the chest and she fell to the ground limply.

"No..." Nightmare whispered weakly before her vision went black.
----

Nightmare shot up from her flasback when the door opened and North returned back into the room with soup. The alicorn barely even knew the unicorn had disappeared.

"Guess... this gives us time to talk?" She said in a questioning voice. Nightmare nodded silently as the tray of soup levitated towards her in a weak flickering magic.

"They put a magical repression device on our horns."

"Willingly?"

"Had no choice. Either this or be put in the dungeons."

Nightmare hummed acknowledging that as an answer.

"Why are you here, Nightmare?"

"I don't know. Shouldn't you know that?"

"I'm not the all seeing eye. I just give a push in the right direction. I can lead a mare to water but making her drink is something else entirely." North sighed with a shrug "I'm a counselor for everything it seems."

"I see... It's seems that I didn't drink."

"No. You drank until you got a stomachache and killed over"

Nightmare chuckled at the analogy looking down at the now luke-warm soup. Pieces of fish, peas, and carrot. She brought the bowl to her mouth with her hooves and began eating.

"I never thought I'd see the day when Celestia bowed to anyone..."

Nightmare sighed before enhaling more soup.

"I mean she's never bowed even when she's been defeated."

"Stubborn old mare is what she is. A mule cannot compare." Nightmare placed the empty bowl on the nightstand.

North shook her head looking around "At least she has some hospitality."

Nightmare snorted "Yes. Put your guests into a hospital, it really brings out the decor."

North snorted before bursting to a fit of giggles.

Chapter 16

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Mommy...

Hurt.

Help!
----

Chrysalis shot up panting before a burst of searing pain shot up her torso.

'I swear, Chrysalis. You need to stop underestimating the mental capacity of these ponies' She snarled to herself before looking around.

Where was she?

Her hoof hit the soft, plush mattress of the bed that was almost too small for her. She turned to see a rather gastly sight.

Nightmare stood by the window with her wings spread. The leather was covered in flaking skin and scars while the feathers seemed to be falling out leaving behind a series of bald spots.

"Disgusting... Aren't they?"

Chrysalis was speechless as she touched the base with the tip of her hoof. Her stomach throbbed but she didn't care.

"H-How?"

"I'm a fallen goddess. I no longer have the power of the moon at my disposal" Nightmare bite back a snarp snarl "She abandoned me. Now I must hide behind an illusion."

Chrysalis gulped as her stomach seemed to turn. Slowly although, Nightmare's wings seemed to fill in with the help of a faint blue magic. Her scars healed and her feathers grew full and abundant.

Nightmare looked at Chrysalis with a frown that's when she saw a slight flash.

-----
No! Please! Stop! Don't look at me!
-----

Chrysalis jolted looking away from the alicorn in fear. Nightmare's eyes widened until there was an uncomfortable amount of tension between the two.

"I truly am..." the rest was so low that Chrysalis couldn't hear. Nightmare then rose up from her spot and walked away.

"Night-" The door slammed cutting her off.

Chrysalis turned and walked up to the mirror in their room. She couldn't help but notice all her flaws.

Her eyes were disproportionate to her face.

Her horn was too long.

Her hooves had too many holes.

Her chitin was cracked and dull.

She closed her eyes and imagined her counterpart. An emerald flame over took her and Summer Grass took her place.

She couldn't help but finally feel... pretty. Her mane was a lustrous green. Her fur was soft and clean.

"Chrysalis... Forgive me...."

The changeling turned to see the albaster alicorn in the moonlight before she disappeared into the shadows.

"Mommy..."

Hoovesteps clattered before a thud sounded. Chrysalis shook in fear from the strange events that were unfolding before her.

"Chryssss."

"No!" The changeling punched the mirror and fell to the ground sobbing.

"Stop staring at me!" She screamed holding her head "Stop! Please! I'm not perfect. I'm not!"

'You must be perfect!'

"Chrysalis- Ah!" A scream sounded as crimson fell to the ground.

Chrysalis looked up to see Twilight Sparkle holding her muzzle while North stood behind her.

"I... Apologize."

"I deserved that." She said in a nasally voice.

"Dang, right" North chipped in giving Chrysalis a bowl of berries. Spade Berries. The changeling attempted to reach out with her magic but only obtained a few sparks in return.

"What?" She questioned. North pointed her her horn which held a silver ring. Magic inhibitor.

"Use less magic and disperse it." North explained. Chrysalis followed her instructions and watched as the bowl floated towards her in a faint silver aura.

"Why?" She asked Twilight as her eyes narrowed in distrust.

Twilight squirmed "The princesses are offering us a chance to reform you and Nightmare..."

"REFORM?!" Chrysalis sneered. Twilight flinched before the changeling queen placed a single hoof on her mouth in shock.

"Woah. Chill..." North said from behind her.

"Chill?! Look at what she's done to me!"

"But you tried to control, Celestia."

Chrysalis fell silent at that.

North snorted a bit at that "As much as I hate the government, it's obvious that everyone is in the wrong."

The changeling queen held her breath in frustration. North wouldn't understand. Nobody would. It is the burden that a queen must carry...
-----

Nightmare walked down the hallway with the darkest of thoughts plaguing her mind. They would never respect her as long as they were under the control of Celestia.

She was the rightful goddess of the moon. Celestia's equal.

She placed a hoof on the stain-glass window that depicted her defeat.

"Nightmare Moon...?" She turned and saw the butter cream colored pegasus. Fluttershy.

"..." Nightmare didn't respond but instead stared at her.

"Would you rather be called Night Tide?" She questioned softly.

"Why are you here, Fluttershy?" Nightmare sighed. The shy pegasus walked over to her and followed her gaze to the stained-glass mural.

"I came to hear you out." She said in a determined tone.

"About what?"

"Why you are doing this? I can tell you're hurting."

Nightmare scoffed a bit before she looked down at the wide cyan eyes of the adorable pegasus. The black alicorn sighed in what sounded like disappointment.

"Fluttershy. You are young mare almost full grown. The oldest of your little group of elements." Nightmare swirled her hoof around in a representation of a group "You will not understand my pain. I have lived for thousands upon thousands of years."

"I never will if you don't tell me. At least give me a chance to..." Fluttershy begged putting a hoof on Nightmare's back.

"Why is it so important to you!" Nightmare snapped.

"Because I don't like it when my friends are upset."

"I'm not your friend. I am your enemy!"

"I have no grievances against you. You haven't hurt me... per se. You're a different pony than you were 3 years ago." Fluttershy smiled.

"You can't guarantee anything that you are saying..." Nightmare snarled snapping her fangs at her.

Fluttershy squirmed a bit but held her ground. "Fine then. Attack me!"

"Very well..." Nightmare chuckled pouncing on the yellow mare producing a squeal in return.
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"You win, Fluttershy."

The young pegasus opened her eyes to see Nightmare standing over her with a scowl.

"See. W-was that too hard?" Fluttershy stuttered trying to calm her pounding heart.

"Actually. Yes." Nightmare chuckled as the mare grew pale again.

"No joking like that!" Fluttershy scolded.

Nightmare burst into a fit of evil sounding laughter "Yes, It would be bad if you died from a heart attack before you reformed me."

"H-how did-" Nightmare placed a hoof over her mouth.

"I am not stupid." The black alicorn stated before walking away. Fluttershy's ear fell flat as she began following the alicorn again.

Chapter 17

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Twilight Sparkle and Chrysalis sat stiffly in the Canterlot Library. The changeling continued grabbing book and looking at their description before putting them back.

"Anything you need help finding? I know this place like the back of my hoof." Twilight attempted to make small talk. Chrysalis nodded before looking at the lavender alicorn.

"Are their any book about audiotory hallucinations."

"What? Why do you...?" Twilight flinched when Chrysalis began glaring before turning back to the bookshelf.

"Well you're in the wrong place. That would be in the medical section." Twilight said gaining the changeling's attention again as she walked towards the medical section and grabbed a few books from the shelf.

"Hearing Neighs by Doctor Frequency. Hallucinations by Doctor Feel Good. Schizophrenic Symptoms by Doctor- Wait no. Nurse Bluebell."

Chrysalis looked at all 3 with narrowed eyes especially the schizophrenic one. She finally decided to grab Hearing Neighs and proceeded with Twilight to the check out station.

"I never knew that changelings were so interested in books." Twilight said with a small smile.

Chrysalis flicked the page with her faded magic. "Unfortunately for you, Twilight Sparkle. I am the only changeling to have this trait and I'm currently the last Equestrian changeling left."

Twilight's ears drooped "Can't you make more?"

Chrysalis chuckled a bit "For your research?"

"No! I mean- Nevermind!" Twilight blushed deeply "What about the changelings race. What are they like?"

"Depends on the hive."

"Tell me about yours."

"Deserted." Chrysalis' lips curled up at she saw Twilight's tail flick in frustration.

"Tell me about changeling anatomy"

Chrysalis thought about it "Well we have the horn. The mane. The muzzle-" Twilight groaned interupting the changeling queen.

"Nevermind! You obviously don't want to tell me!"

"What gave you that idea?" Chrysalis flicked the page again.

Twilight huffed "You're impossible!"

"I pretty sure I'm here so the impossible is possible." Chrysalis said in a snarky tone.

"Ugh!!!" Twilight screamed as the door opened.

"How's it going, Twilight?" Cadance's voice drifted into the room.

"Fine... Just perfect!" She growled.

"I see..." Cadance took a seat beside Twilight "Chrysalis... I have a few questions."

"I wouldn't recommend asking. She's been dodging mine all morning."

Chrysalis perked her ears while reading through a particular page that caught her attention

Cadance slid closer "Chrysalis, do you love Nightmare Moon?"

Chrysalis struggled to keep a straight face as an emerald glow spread across her cheeks "Not of your concern."

Cadance giggled "I'll take that as a yes. That's all I wanted to ask."

Chrysalis put down her book "What are you gonna do? Use it against me?"

"Oh! No, I would never. I just needed to satiate my curiosity."

Chrysalis snort is disbelief and returned to her book
------

Nightmare woke up groggily as she pushed the empty bottle away from her. She was next to Fluttershy, who had managed to fall asleep in the chair beside her. She groaned stretching and got up.

She crouched and slid the sleeping Fluttershy onto her back before leaving the room. She continued walking before she ran into a pink mare. An alicorn?

"Oh! Nightmare Moon. Good morning!" She chirped. Nightmare's eyes narrowed in distrust as she shuffled Fluttershy securely on her back.

"And you are?"

"Oh yes. I'm Celestia's adoptive niece. My name is Mi Amore Cadenza or Candance for short."

"Well... Good morning, Cadenza. Goodbye." The black alicorn said curtly.

"Wait!" Cadance said grabbing her tail with her blue magic. Nightmare rolled her eyes in annoyance.

"Yes?"

"Do you love Chrysalis?" Nightmare choked on spit reducing her to a hacking mess.

"What?!" She exclaimed as Fluttershy raised her head in confusion "I just met you!"

"I know it's weird but I'm curious. You protected her so valiantly from my aunt."

"What are you planning!" Nightmare snapped.

"Nothing I just wanted to know since... you know."

"What?" Fluttershy spoke up rubbing her eyes with a hoof.

"Stay out of my business. Whom I love is none of thy concern!" Nightmare then sucked in a breath "Your concern!"

"Interesting..."

"You speak in Olden Equish?" Fluttershy questioned. Nightmare blushed deeply but refused to answer the yellow pegasus. Cadance walked away and Fluttershy slid down in concern for her friend.

"Yes. I can." She whispered as her ears drooped as bad memories flooded in.

"That's amazing. I've never understood. Can you translate for me?"

"Thou art a strange mare..." Nightmare chuckled as she made her way back to her room.
-----

When Nightmare Moon returned she found Chrysalis with a frustrated Twilight Sparkle. Chrysalis was occupied with a book as Twilight fired questions at her.

"What about your mother?"

"What mother?"

"Do changelings have fathers?"

"Twilight." Fluttershy giggled as the lavender alicorn began blushing.

"Chrysalis."

"N-n..." She turned away thinking about what Cadance.

"Princess Sparkle. Fluttershy. The princesses have summoned the charges."

The two nodded with forced smiles and looked at the lovers.

"It's time for your trial..."

Chapter 18

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Ponies watched with trepidation as the changeling and the alicorn was lead to the stands. The tension was disgustingly thick and shoved it's way into your throat.

"We stand here to give the royal pardon to Queen Chrysalis and Nightmare Moon." Luna stated

Screams of outrage filled the halls as Twilight and Fluttershy both reeled back from shock. Nightmare looked at Chrysalis and the changeling queen stared back.

"You can't possibly be thinking of excusing them for this." A noble pitched in.

"Yes, look at them. Their horrid creatures born from the depths of Tartarus!" Fluttershy growled flapping her wings as she tackled the noblemare.

"Nobody talks about my friends that way. Nobody! Do! You! Understand!" She snarled. The noblemare nodded quickly and the butter cream mare helped her up.

Celestia stood on her throne with a slight smile "I understand that you might have had a bad experience with them but I can tell they have learned the magic of friendship. The power of love and happiness shines in their hearts."

Luna watched Nightmare as Nightmare walked up to the throne. Her face was dark but held conviction.

"..." She stared before walking from the throne room. Chrysalis followed after leaving a dead silence in their wake.

----

"Why did you do that?" Chrysalis questioned. The black alicorn didn't say a word. The changeling ran ahead of her to block her path.

"Chrysalis..."

"Why are you regressing back to being this tough, silent alicorn. I thought we were past this!" Chrysalis sneered as she got close enough for their horns to touch.

"You deserve better... I have done terrible things that nobody knows about. Nobody will ever-" She was interrupted by a soft muzzle nuzzling her own.

"I'm always here. I've always been here. Talk to me." Chrysalis whispered licking her cheek. Nightmare sighed swallowing her fear. Why was she so afraid to open up to her?

"I don't... I don't want to drive you away again." She whispered back. Chrysalis' ears fell slightly as she leaned against her partner's shoulder.

"Tell me. A good relationship is built off of trust."

"Where'd you hear that?"

Chrysalis smirked "Nice try. Now tell me.

Nightmare looked away "I have these scars for a reason. You already know about my fight with Celestia. I am the rightful goddess of the moon. I am Celestia's polar opposite. We are complimentary in a way."

Chrysalis watched as her hoof dragged the ground.

"She changed me to suite her needs. A foal with no home, no family. Nobody loved me for me! It was always Luna! Luna! Luna!"

Chrysalis placed her hoof on Nightmare's and nodded for her to continue.

"Everyone says I corrupted Luna. I changed Luna! I AM A PARASITE WHEN IT IS THE COMPLETE OPPOSITE!" Nightmare screamed as her fangs flashed in front of Chrysalis's eyes "YOU CAN'T JUST WALTZ INTO EXISTENCE AND TAKE EVERYTHING FROM ME!"

Chrysalis' grabbed Nightmare in her weak magic and pulled her head to lean on her shoulder. It was a long time until she finally calmed and fell asleep.

----

Nightmare woke up to Chrysalis' long emerald mane on her muzzle. She snorted to rid herself of the tickling feeling.

"Good morning." Chrysalis whispered in her ear making the large alicorn shudder.

"Good morning, Chrysalis. How long was I?"

"About 12 hours, give or take some minutes. Celestia and Luna wish for us to be at dinner."

"Truly?"

Chrysalis nodded as Nightmare rose from the bed. Her mane was a mess of lavender locks. It wasn't much of a surprise given that their owner wasn't in much of a good mood either.

"Oh and Nightmare..."

"Hm?" The black alicorn paused at the bathroom doorway.

"Luna hasn't taken everything. I'm still here."

The alicorn shield herself with a wing and walked into the bathroom but she couldn't hide her bashfulness from the chuckling changeling

Nightmare woke up to Chrysalis' long emerald mane on her muzzle. She snorted to rid herself of the tickling feeling.

----

When the walked out of the bedroom, a guard was staring at them.

"The princesses request that I show you to the dining hall. Miss. North is already there."

They nod and follow the guard. He wasn't a heavily built guard so Chrysalis assumed that he's never left Canterlot. Nightmare was watching the windows. Canterlot was flourishing way more that Galacian every did. None the less, they were all raised in that earth pony village. Ponyville seems like such a plain name compared to its original.

"Nightmare Moon." The guard said curtly.

"Yes?"

"We are here."

He opened the door and they saw ponies they new and didn't know.

Shining Armor and 2 other unicorn stallion's. A light grey mare with a pink mane. The element barers and the 4 princesses.

"Come, sit with us." Celestia requested being as polite as possible.

"Yes. It would be rude of us to enter without doing so." Chrysalis replied taking a seat next to Fluttershy, who smiled at them both. Nightmare sat awkwardly next to Chrysalis.

"This is my nephew, Sir Blueblood. His ancestor was Princess Platinum." She said pointing to the stallion with the blonde mane. Chrysalis could tell that he was of a premium breeding.

"And this fellow, is my dearest friend, Fancy Pants and his wife, Fleur De Lis."

Chrysalis eye's widened at the sight of Fleur de lis. Nightmare noticed but didn't say anything.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss. Moon." Fancy stated with a smile.

Nightmare smiled back almost genuinely "The pleasure is all mine."

"Now Ah just have one question." Applejack pitched in.

"What is it?" Fluttershy questioned.

"You two were Summer Grass and Night Tide" She questioned. The two mares nodded shyly.

Pinkie watched with wide eyes "Reformation Party!"

"Pinkie!"
"No!"

Chrysalis and Nightmare screamed at the same time. The pink mare seemed to pout at that.

"But everyone knows that you're gonna be reformed at the end of the...." The last part was so low that nopony could hear.

"What was that, Darling." Rarity questioned.

"Nothing!" She replied in her usually peppy voice.

"That's why you hate Luna?" Rainbow questioned.

Nightmare gritted her teeth "I've already said this before I do not hate-"

Twilight groaned interrupting the alicorn "It's obvious. You couldn't stop glaring during our double date. To think you would go to such lengths to fake a relationship."

Chrysalis snorted at that as Cadance giggled.

"I do not think they are faking in the slightest. I can see that they love each other dearly."

"Exactly!" North chimed in.

"Oh! Oh, wow!" Fluttershy whispered with a slight blush on her cheeks.

"Why is it anypony's business!" Chrysalis sighed in exasperation. Nightmare nodded in agreement.

"I find it to be a relatable subject to talk about considering the large amount of homosexual mares." Luna sipped her tea as she watched the reaction to her sister's statement.

"Wait!" Twilight blushed.

"What!?" Rainbow yelped.

Chrysalis burst into a fit of laughter as the lavender alicorn glared at her.

"Well then, this has turned into a rather interesting conversation." Blueblood chipped in.

"Oh you, uncouth ruffian!" Rarity growled.

"Silence! I can barely hear myself think!" Nightmare snapped and the dining room fell silent as they stared at her.

"Why so glum?" Pinkie whispered from behind her. Nightmare's ear swirled around lightly tapping the pink mare in the nose.

"Boop." Pinkie giggled.

"I do not think that qualifies as a boop, Pinkamena." The black alicorn stated as she began eating the grilled fish on her plate.

"Of course it counts silly."

"Could've fooled me." Nightmare chuckled. Pinkie seemed the light up at the sight of the black mare's smile.

Chapter 18.5

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Chrysalis huffed slightly as she trudged through the castle halls. Her dress dragging the ground as Nightmare had wished for it in her note.

She opened the door and instantly she was met with a bucket of water to the face. The changeling queen was fuming. She looked up to see Rainbow Dash cackling so hard that she couldn't make any noise but squeaking breathes.

Fluttershy and Twilight came from the closet and let out their own snickers.

"Is this funny to you?" Chrysalis asked in a monotone voice. She could taste the fear and disappointment (from Rainbow Dash).

"I mean... It was kinda funny." Fluttershy whispered shyly as she hid behind a curtain of pink hair.

"We sent the letter and summoned you here. This is my first Pony Foals prank." Twilight explained.

Chrysalis attempted to summon nonexistent patience before her eyes began glowing with rage.

"Run." She whispered as her voice reached subzero temperatures. The mares flinched before a voice rang out.

"Look out!" Chrysalis dove to the ground as Pinkie used her back as a spring board.

The pink earth pony did a somersault in the air before a pie landed perfectly in the blue pegasus' face.

"BULLSEYE!" She screamed bouncing on her hind hooves in glee as the pie slid from Rainbow's muzzle. Fluttershy and Twilight burst into a fit of laughter.

It was now Rainbow's turn to fume as she tackled the pink mare and pinned her to ground.

Pinkie let out a small sqee "Pony Foals?"

Chrysalis chuckled deeply as a dark energy filled the room with fog. It covered the window and was so thick that it shrouded the room in darkness.

A evil chuckle filtered into everypony's ears before screams rang out.

Chrysalis was on edge as she flicked her head left and right to find the threat.

There was a tap on her shoulder that made her jolt. She swerved to see North's glowing gold eyes as she was wearing fake fangs. She was sitting on the back of Nightmare, who's eyes were also glowing.

"Pony Foals, my darling, Chrysalis." Nightmare whispered

Chrysalis blushed deeply as she was pulled into a deep kiss.

Pony Foals, Everypony (April Fools, Everyone!)

Chapter 19

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After dinner, Nightmare and Chrysalis went to the castle gardens. The moon glowed down on many exotic flowers and grasses. The lake gleamed in front of them as they laid down.

"Celestia has made a mistake..."

Chrysalis looked at Nightmare with a curious gaze.

"Her subjects are distrusting because of her announcement. It was entirely out of character for her."

"I mean you barely know- Do not finish that sentence." Nightmare interrupted with a firm stare. Chrysalis fell silent and looked at the moon.

"They reformed Discord from what Twilight has told me... You'd think they'd trust their leader." Chrysalis grimaced.

"Ponies are not drones. They have opinions and varying stages of... Patriotism and rationalization. They barely know the difference. Celestia can do no wrong. Celestia is a goddess. Nobles are what I'm worried about." Nightmare mocked softly under her breath. The changeling beside her nodded slightly before closing her eyes.

"I... I've been seeing them. Sombra. Shadow. I see them for a split second and they disappear," She whimpered softly "I don't feel good about the future."

"I agree. There's something on the horizon."

"Not on the horizon but right in front of us. I can sense it."

Nightmare shot up and getting into a battle position. As soon as she did that, a huge explosion sounded. The guard behind them rushed into position beside Nightmare.

"Mommy... Come back. It hurts." A small voice sobbed.

"It hurts!!!" The voice screeched in a high pitched demonic tone as the castle above them burst into flames. Nightmare winced as her ears rung.

"What in Tartarus!!!" The guard screamed dunking as debris fell from above them. Chrysalis blasted the large bricks away with her magic.

"Shadow..." She whispered as she saw black crystal creep along the side of the castle. Nightmare was in shock.

"SHE'S ALIVE!!!" She yelled in shock. Chrysalis shook her head violently.

"It's impossible. I saw her die. I felt her die in the hive mind." The guard pointed his spear at Chrysalis.

"You caused this!?" He said shakily as the spear trembled in his grip. He was terrified. Nightmare grabbed his spear taking flight.

"I know what is happening. Stay here." She ordered before going to attack the threat.

Celestia stared with wide eyes as saucers.

The purple mist. Emerald eyes. Black mane. Insect wings.

She was semi-transparent like a living ghost with black crystals following her.

"You... White pony" She said in a softly voice looking Celestia in the eyes as hers teared up "Why...?"

"Princess? What is that? Who is that?" Twilight questioned. Luna backed away feeling chills run up and down her back.

"I made a bad decision..." Celestia teared up looking away.

"You hurt me.... hurt mommy... Hurt my brothers and sister. Monster."

Celestia flinched as her voice became high pitched. Twilight covered her ears with her hooves.

"Girls, the elements!" She yelled to her friends. They rushed into the action but smacked right into the greenish crystals blocked their path.

"Watch out, Twi!" Rainbow Dash screamed as a black crystal cage erected from underneath the lavender alicorn.

"Let me out!" Twilight growled.

"Stay out of it!" The spirit screeched at the young alicorn making her curl up as her ears began to ring loudly. Celestia stepped from her throne.

"You have grievances with me..." The spirit nodded glaring at the alicorn princess as her body twitched dangerously.

"Then come and get- SHADOW!" Nightmare yelled crashing through the window. The black alicorn charged at her with the power of a master swordmare. The young spirit turned to see a spear sticking out of her chest. She oozed transparent black blood.

Nightmare closed her eyes pushing it deeper as she squeaked and whimpered "I'm so sorry. You died before your time..."

"Tell mommy.... I love...." She disappeared is a burst of light before she could finish. Nightmare watched as the crystals faded away leaving everypony in the throne room with a bitter taste in their mouth.

"Why'd you kill her?" Flurryshy whimpered looking away.

"She was dead. Just a windigo that was seeking vengence for her death. Something that is supposed to be locked in Tartarus." Nightmare's eyes narrowed on Celestia, who paled.

"Now tell me, Celestia.... Why is the gate open?"

Chapter 20

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Celestia instantly put on a firm mask as the guards rushed in. They all got into attention with Shining Armor in the front.

"Princess, the castle has been damaged greatly. The left wing of the castle slipped from it's support and fell a ways down the mountain. Search and rescue are at the site of the incident."

"Any casualities?"

A female soldier at the end piped up "None so far, your highness. 25 injured maids and guards were sent to the north medical wing."

"Shining Armor, where is Cadance. We have something to discuss that is of the most importance."

Cadance slid from behind the guards "Is it over... Auntie?"

Celestia looked grim and for the first time, frustrated. "Twilight..."

The lavender unicorn perked up and Nightmare blocked her. The black alicorn narrowed her eyes.

"You will not send these girls on this mission alone. It will kill them. Allow me to explain."

Shining Armor turned towards the guards "I want the hallways lined. The throne room soundproof. Complete lock down of the castle, any and all suspicious pony will be detained until further notice."

"Yessir!" They saluted before walking out in an orderly line and closing the door behind them. Not too long after, the walls were aligned with many maguc auras.

Nightmare lit her horn and in a flash, Chrysalis stood before them still shocked from the experience.

"Nightmare?"

The black alicorn's horn was still alit as she bathed the room in an illusion. A large door appeared that had many intricate and detailed designs.

"This is the Gate to Tartarus. I have only seen it once in my entire life. This has a very difficult puzzle on it that keeps it closed. A puzzle that only Celestia knows..." The white alicorn puffed up at the suggestion but said nothing.

"So this is what keeps the windigos in?" Twilight questioned looking deeply at the puzzle.

"In short, yes, it does, Twilight." Luna jumped in "I, just like Nightmare, have only seen it once in my life."

Nightmare nodded stiffly "The inside is mostly dark as it is the land of th- So Ah'm confused. What lives there that could kill us?" AppleJack interrupted.

Chrysalis glared rolling her eyes. "If you would put a muzzle on it, you'd know."

"Don't talk to my friend like that!" Rainbow Dash growled.

"Quiet, Everypony- erm... Everyone! Nightmare is informing us of the threat that just attacked us. From what I can hear, there's more than just the one that attacked us."

"It was strange like faded but it's magic was physical." Twilight explained.

Chrysalis hissed "My daughter is not an it...."

"Daughter?!" Everyone except Nightmare and Celestia exclaimed. Cadance looked pale as she hugged her enlarged stomach.

"Yes... My daughter was killed a long time ago by Celestia!" Everyone in the room looked at Celestia, who couldn't look even look at the changeling queen.

"That's why Auntie wanted your forgiveness..." Cadance muttered coming to a realization covering her mouth as her eyes watered.

Shining Armor pat her back but couldn't hold back the anger and disgust that assault his system. Disgust in his leader's murder of a foal. Anger at the changeling for the past. She'd controlled him and Twily but he couldn't find it in himself to remain angry for some reason. Was she truly justified in her actions?

Nightmare cleared her throat "Ignoring the bomb shell in the room, Tartarus is inhabited by everyone who has died. Ponies, Griffons, Minotaur, Dragons, etc. A Cerberus that guards the living from the dead and the dead from the living. And- Tirek!!!" Twilight yelled hyperventilating.

"Yes... Tirek."

"What if he gets loose again and I have to take all the alicorn magic, and we don't have the elements like before!" Twilight was feeling light-headed.

Nightmare was obviously confused by this statement "Tirek has been out of Tartarus?!"

"Yea, right around when Twilight became an alicorn..." Fluttershy squeaked "He took advantage of poor Discord and took everypony's magic."

"Is that what left it open...?" Nightmare questioned.

"Impossible. Tia checked it herself...." Her statement drifted off with wide eyes as everyone looked at Celestia, who was now on the hot seat.

"I assure you that I did not leave Tartarus open!"

"So it was open! And you decided to leave this information to yourself! I thought we were equal in power and, I deserve to know of any threats to our subjects!" Luna screamed at her getting red across her muzzle from anger.

Celestia teared up "Lulu, I- Save it, Sister. We will assist in neutralizing this threat." Luna then turned away, opening the throne room doors before leaving.

Nightmare was struck silent by the exchange. Twilight walked up to her mentor.

"I have to words.... I just-" Twilight ran away after Luna and was followed by her friends.

Cadance and Shining Armor announced that they would sleep on it before making a decision leaving Chrysalis and Nightmare with a sobbing solar princess.

Chrysalis was disgusted as Nightmare kneels down and wraps her wings around Celestia.

"Why are you still here?" Celestia hiccuped "I hurt everyone..."

"My dear sister...." Nightmare started "You must make up for your mistakes... I've been called imaginary. Cast away. Hurt emotionally and neglected physically."

Celestia eyes widened "Moon... I-I thought that you were a...."

Nightmare looked out into the night "In a way, I was..."

Chrysalis watched at Nightmare's side as she calmed a shaking hoof. Celestia was silent as she snaked her wings around the black alicorn.

"I'm so.... I'm so sorry," She sobbed "I'm a terrible pony!"

"You are a leader!" Nightmare snapped "Do not wallow in self pity for every mistake. Correct them. Admit that you are wrong! No one in perfect!"

Celestia blinked like a foal sniffling "I- Yes..."

"Apologize to everyone that you have wronged but don't leave it at that. Make it up to them, Celestial."

Celestia blushed "It has been a while since I have been called by that name."

"Celestial?" Chrysalis questioned.

"My true name is Celestial Body. I was meant to raise both the sun and the moon by myself," She blinked looking at the changeling "I apologize sincerely from the bottom of my heart for the death of your daughter and my actions."

Chrysalis turned away hissing under her breath "I am not sorry for taking over your kingdom but I apologize for putting you on the spot. It was something that should've been brought up in private."

Nightmare sent Chrysalis a small smile. Celestia rose and stepped out of Nightmare's wings.

"I will think of a good team to go to Tartarus. It would be good to sleep on." Celestia yawns slightly as she turns away with flushed cheeks from crying.

"Let us take our leave as well, Nightmare." Chrysalis stated following Celestia as a guard walked beside them.

Chapter 21

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Chrysalis looked to the hive mothers that haunted her shadows.

"Your purpose of being born is for the hive..."

"The hive is your only family..."

"Don't make friends with ponies...."

"Your purpose is to the hive."

"You're- You're purpose is to the hive"

"You're- You're purpose is to the hive."

Chrysalis walked up to the broken record and turned it off.

"How...." The changeling's lip trembled angrily

"HOW MISERABLE DO I HAVE TO BE BEFORE YOU'RE SATISFIED!!! YOU'RE SUCKING MY LIFE AWAY!" She screamed holding her head as the shadows latched onto her like leeches.

"Mommy..."

"Chrysalis..."

The foal-like shadow wrapped her forelegs around Chrysalis' leg. The other shadow was a unicorn stallion that held her close.

"We could be a family again... Just you and us"

"But Nightmare..."

"Who's that" The stallion asked kissing Chrysalis' cheek.

Chrysalis felt herself fall into a daze. This was what she always wanted... A family and a companion to love her. Nightmare...

Her shadows creeped in enjoying the delicious vulnerability of the changeling.

"Nighty..."

"Forget about her. Come on, Mommy"

"We can go on a family outing just the three of us."

The foal squealed happily as the stallion swung her around.

Chrysalis' eyes softened "Ok..." She whispered holding her foal.

"Chrysalis! Don't fall prey to their lies" Nightmare screamed walking into the dream.

Chrysalis looked up at this unfamiliar alicorn "Who are you?"

The foal scrunched up her face "She's trying to ruin our family" She sneered pulling Chrysalis away.

Nightmare's eyes softened as she walked closer "Come back to me, My Queen"

Chrysalis' eyes lit up in split second recognition before darkening again. Nightmare crept up to her only to be pinned by the stallion "Get out, Home wrecker" He snarled.

Nightmare opened her wings aggressively hissing as she bared her fangs "Chrysalis belongs to me and me only! She is mine..."

The shadow growled backing away with his tail tucked deeply within his legs. Chrysalis looked up at her with blank eyes "My heart feels strange..."

Nightmare chuckled pulling her close with her wings. The foal shadow was trembling like a leaf in the wind.

"Come back to me..." Nightmare whispered kissing the changeling deeply. The shadows screamed in agony as they were chased away by the silver light coming from Chrysalis. She opened her emerald eyes that were now a shining blue "Thank you, Nighty"

Nightmare smiled but Chrysalis could see a hidden pain within her curved lips. The changeling opened her mouth to say something but was interrupted by the dreamscape becoming faded and bright.

"I'll see you when you wake up..." Nightmare whispered kissing her cheek as everything turned white.

"I wonder what are you hiding, my beautiful Queen of the Moon..."

Chrysalis woke up to see the same guard as usual but Nightmare was nowhere to be found.

"You, guard. What's your name?" She called out. He stood at attention.

"Private Sky Streak. My apologies for my attack upon you, Queen Chrysalis."

"No need for apologies. Your job is to protect the princess and Canterlot?" He nods "Well then, you are doing your job."

He smiles a bit breaking baring "Thank you."

"No problem, Private." She slid out of the room and into the bathroom. There she saw Nightmare, who was preening herself in the shower. Her tail swaying back and forth giving glimpses that would make any stallion blush.

"You're looking riveting this morning." Chrysalis purred softly levitating a brush as she began to brush her mane.

"Thank you..." She turned to look at her lover and sighed.

"We have to go to Tartarus?"

"I suspect that Celestia alone did not cause this. This was done on the inside."

"What?!" Chrysalis looked Nightmare deep in the eyes. There was a deep rooted sadness pooling in her irises.

"I have...." She winced "Nevermind..."

Chrysalis looked away "I've been thinking..."

Nightmare nodded looking at her.

"You're afraid... Afraid of loosing everything. You grew up with nothing..."

Nightmate shuddered "We can talk about this... Later. We have a meeting to attend."

Chrysalis watched as she walked away with a grimace, "You can't just run from me."

Nightmare stopped and turned "I am and for the first time in my many millennias of life... I fear for something. I did not rush into a relationship with the Queen of Changelings. I fell in love with a mare out of my own violation despite the time frame."

"Nightmare..."

"I have but one request." The alicorn spread her long wings as the feathers shudder making her look as intimidating as possible "Never allow anyone to change you. You haven't been allowed life. You have been lead on by responsibility. Now, I request that you do what makes you happy."

The alicorn's wings fell back into place of her sides as she stared. They watched each other as Chrysalis was struck with silence.

"Do what makes me happy..." She whispered under her breath.

"I will give you time to mull over your thoughts. This battle will be a long one. One that will be my first of many to come. Or perhaps the final to be struck down by a blade." Nightmare smiled bitterly and walked out of the bathroom.

Chrysalis was left to her thoughts. What she wanted. What made her happy? She followed with a firm look of determination on her face. No longer the Queen of Changelings. No longer the Mother of Dead Dhildren or a Shadow's Widow.

She walked out the bathroom determined to fight for her new freedom alongside old enemies and an old friend.

She would fight for a new tomorrow alongside the mare she loved.

End of Two Side Part 1

The Rising of the 2nd Curtain (Chapter 1)

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I am Nightmare Moon. The True Lunar Diarch of Equestria.

I was born from the spirit that had lingered in a foal when she was brought back with necromancy. When that dead foal began having thoughts of its own and was given will by its master, it became Princess Luna.

I am not Princess Luna. I was named Moon. The invisible spirit of a foal, who's body was taken by an artificial spirit. In a way, I hunted her. I loathe her.

I was her friend and she abandoned me. Betrayed me. Everypony I adore leaves me.

So I went off on my own.

I met a young black foal with green eyes. She was a perfect friend and could see me. She then disappear and never came back. My heart ached for her.

My millennias walking the halls in the castle were less than fruitful. I learn to use the spear and sword from Luna's training. I took to the style faster than the foal ever could.

Then she took a husband....

Once upon a time, there was a lonely princess.

She created a golem lover. Gave him half of her soul from her chest in hopes that he would protect her from the loneliness. She gave him membranous wings so that he could embrace her night sky and a masculine figure so that he may always protect her.

After many years, they were having their first foal. He asked the princess... 'Why did you create me?'. The princess sobbed and held him, telling him all about her loneliness as a vengeful spirit watched from the shadows.

After many years, the princess left to go to war whilst hiding her 3rd pregnancy from her sister. The spirit walked up to him and he panicked. She never knew why he was able to see her.

After years of his wife being at war, he finally succame to the will of his instincts. The spirit's body was curvier that his wife with large birthing hips. Her dark coat appealed to his love of the sky.

The princess then returned to the castle after the war and held him blissfully unaware of his infidelity. The incidence of it was already being shown on the spirit's body as her wings grew membranous and her eyes slitted. Agonizing pain stemming from a single love bite.

I admit that I was wrong in my pursues but so is the life of a shadow.

I'm sure that everyone has heard of The Fall of Princess Luna. I will not go into anymore detail. I was banished to the moon. Came back and lost my body once again.

That is until I woke up.

I woke up and I was lying on ground. A little horned zebra came up to me and painstakingly levitated me in small bursts to her hunt.

Although...I felt a pull.

A strong almost painful pull that made my muzzlebleed and my ears ring. I snuck away.

And so begins my story of love. Two tyrants. Both with horrid backstories.

One knew no happiness of her own.

The other smothered her happiness until the flamed died and burned her.

An endless cycle that would soon end.

"Good morning, Celestia. Cadance. Luna." I stated to my fellow princesses. Cadance was definitely not a morning person as her wings were covering her entire face. Celestia sipped her tea sending a pleasant yet serious nod. Luna was busying pouring a new mug of coffee.

"Has Chrysalis awoken?" Luna asked.

"She is doing her morning routine as we speak."

Celestia piped up "AppleJack went to woke the other element bearers. Shining Armor is honing the guards."

"So..." Cadance muttered as she decided to join the conversation "...is everyone ready?"

"Nobody is. War is not something to be truly ready for, Young Niece." Luna said with a frown. I nodded joining Luna and getting some fluffy scrambled eggs. Cadance poked the center of her over easy egg making the yolk jiggle.

"I believe, Equestria has become weak. No wars. No training. And absolutely no advancement in magic or technology." I stated.

Celestia nodded "I have to agree. The last big advancement was trains and that was 200 years ago. After that, the development slid into a staggering halt. Soldiers these days have never know the battlefield. The wedding fiasco showed me as much when the guard began running instead of protecting their princess." She grabbed the kettle and poured another cup.

Chrysalis walkied in at that moment "Some guards you have there."

"What do you suggest, Queen Chrysalis? Complete tyranny?"

Chrysalis snorted "You can't be a leader following completely impossible ideals. If tyranny is what you call it, then so be it."

Luna's ears perked as her eyes narrowed "Explain yourself."

"Sweet, Princess Tia, has true beliefs that she has brought complete and utter peace by being a humble and innocent leader. This will begin to breed question in your subjects. I realized it when Nightmare stated it." All eyes fell on me and I sipped my coffee.

Just then, AppleJack returned with 5 exhausted young mares in tow. Pinkie was surprisingly dim today which made the entire room feel grim.

"Where are we in the meeting- I'm here!" North interrupted Twilight walking in. We watched as she sat at the round table.

"Well..." Twilight continued "Where?"

Cadance turned pointing a hoof at Chrysalis "She said Celestia's rule is flawed by ideals. Apparently, she got it from Nightmare. So we are wondering her thoughts."

Rainbow yawns scratching her underbelly with her hind hoof like dog "Cool."

"This is what I mean. Everyone needs to be prepared for war." I snapped at these foalish antics.

AppleJack glared "Hold on there. We've never been in a war. What do you expect us to be... Trained professionals?"

"No. But at least..." I pinched my muzzle. Chry watched with a firm look.

"Training is what everyone needs right now. Mental and physical." North said in a monotone voice as her cutie-mark glowed.

"North?" She looked up with wide innocent eyes.

"Yes?"

Twilight raised an eyebrow "What was that?"

She looked at me then around at the shocked faces "What was what?"

Everyone groaned facehooving. Luna seemed to grimace as she looked at her sister. They shared at look.

"Then we should all plan to train. War is no easy feat to overcome. If Tartarus is our enemy then we may see loved ones. Ponies of the past. Ghouls and ghosts of every kind." Celestia began.

Fluttershy cleared her throat "How do we-" She squeaked in fear as Rainbow slammed on the table.

"HOW ARE WE GONNA STAND AGAINST THAT!?"

Celestia closed her eyes "The plan is... To find the source of power in Tartarus and close the gate. That is the only way to successfully calm this rebellion of the dead."

"I believe we will need allies. Allies are quite power in war. Are they not?" Rarity asked fearfully. I looked at Cadance as she rose a hoof.

"I may be able to convince Mintonia. Rarity is right. We must contact our allies. Especially if we encouter something like Starswirl the Bearded or Mistmane."

Luna nodded "Our most powerful enemies will be the ones closest to us. The more ponies who die. The more their numbers will grow."

Rarity fell on the table dramatically "We will never win. WE'RE DOOOOOOMED!!!" She sobbed. Cadance stomped on the table and glared at her.

"Have hope in us. Have hope in Equestria. I will fight to make a happy world for my foal to grow up in! Fight for the future. Even if you must destroy your past. Your foals. Your foals' foals. The future of Equestia is yet again on our shoulders. And we will, again, answer its cry."

Twilight nodded "Come on girls. We've saved Equestria countless times before. We just need hope and friendship."

Slowly, the young mares began to perk up. Pinkie's mane puffed up and she let out a giggle.

"Silly Twilight. We already have friendship. I better polish my party cannons." She said before slipping under the table and disappearing.

"How...?" Luna began to question.

"Leave it." I stated "Pegasus guards need more armor. Unicorns need fatal spells and enchanted spears."

North nodded writing it down.

Chrysalis decided to chip in "I also believe Celestia needs to take time to train mentally."

Celestia's eyes widened "Me!"

"You broke down last night. A leader in that condition is a liability we cannot have. Strengthen your mind." Celestia's mouth flapped open and closed like a fish before she reluctantly nodded.

"Then who will lead..." Luna said with a glare in our direction.

"I will alongside you." I stated as if it were obvious. She turned a soft red around her cheeks before turning away.

"I do not believe our enemy would be good as a leader." I chuckled at that as North huffed.

"Everyone will fall victim to the ghouls. Do you consider Equestria so special? No matter if we were your enemy. Which we are no longer. The enemy of thy enemy is thy friend."

Luna sighed "Very well. They will trust in you. I still do not consider you a friend." She got up and left. I ignored the comment and turned to the rest.

"I hope that we can work together... For th sake of Equestria." I stated holding of hoof out. North and Chrysalis were the first to put their hooves on mine. Followed by Celestia. Twilight. Fluttershy. AppleJack. Rainbow Dash. Rarity.

We them looked at Cadance who looked at Chrysalis with apprehension before placing her hoof on hers. I could feel Chrysalis' surprise as the unicorn horns in the circle glowed in the spell of truce.

"FOR EQUESTRIA!"