//------------------------------// // Unexpected Twists // Story: Queen Chrysalis, Relationship Doctor // by Prismfire Productions //------------------------------// 9:30am, Crystal Empire Dining Hall Chrysalis’ original lead about asking the guards if anything strange happened during the night had led to a dead end. The guards stationed by her bedchamber, who had kept close monitoring at Chrysalis’ request, reported that Her Majesty had a very peaceful slumber, complete with a blissful smile on her muzzle. This had given Chrysalis a lot to think about, including some areas that she’d rather have stay in the deepest recesses of her mind. “Is it possible that I have done the impossible?” Chrysalis mused to herself as she waited for Cadance and Shining Armor to join her. “There has never been any recorded instance of a changeling feeding on dream love, even I have failed in that endeavor. However, there must be some explanation as to how I woke up full, and that dream love felt so real… so sweet, fresh, and pure.” “Good morning Your Majesty,” Cadance said with a beaming smile that brightened the room as she entered with Shining and Flurry. “did you have a good night’s rest?” “Yes I did Princess,” Chrysalis replied as a maid brought them all a nice breakfast of pancakes, toast, haybacon, and orange juice. Despite the mysterious filling during the night, the splendid smells made the changeling drool, and she couldn’t help but fix herself a serving. “and based off the way you look, it seems you did as well.” “That is correct,” Cadance said between attempts to feed Flurry Heart, the alicorn foal not wanting any of her mashed peas, “thank you for asking. So how does your schedule look for today?” “Pretty busy with business picking up,” Chrysalis said, mildly surprised that Cadance was being as interested in her services as she was. “I’ve got a 10 o’clock follow up with Discord and Celestia, 11:30 with Rainbow and Pinkie, 1 with Twilight of all ponies, then a 2:15 with Cheerilee. After that, I got just over an hour break before I have a 4pm with another changeling queen who’s coltfriend broke up with her, after her disguise shattered protecting him from a fire.” “Wow, Your Majesty,” Shining said, completely shocked that his former tormentor was doing so well for herself, actually seeming a bit reformed. “sounds like you got a full slate. Although, I do have to ask, do you have a 9am appointment available anytime this week?” Chrysalis blinked, Shining being one of the last ponies she had expected to ask for her services, outside of Cadance herself that is. “I will have to check with Mrs. Harshwinny, but I think that something like that won’t be free until late next week. I hope that waiting won’t be too big of an issue?” “Not at all,” Cadance, not Shining, answered as she finally managed to get Flurry Heart to eat. “We will see you at dinner tonight, so try and have a good day considering all the clients you have to deal with, and please try to keep up the good work.” Chrysalis got up to head to her office, and as she did she nearly stopped. When she was almost out the door, she could swear that she felt a tiny trickle of love come from Cadance and into her own horn, but it was so quick she downplayed it as her imagination running wild from the previous night’s dream. Upon reaching the office, Mrs. Harshwinny was already there getting things finalized. “Hello, Your Majesty,” Mrs. Harshwinny said as she put some papers in the filing cabinet, Chrysalis making a mental note to ask for a bigger one, “is there anything I can do for you?” “Besides the daily resupply of refreshments, there is one thing,” Chrysalis said stopping at the entrance to her office. “Can you check the planner and see when the next available 9am appointment is?” “Umm,” Mrs. Harshwinny paused as she sorted through the daily planner, making sure each appointment had confirmed their visit. “Considering you are starting that slot up tomorrow, and it is already a popular slot, next Saturday will be the next one. If I may prod, why do you need to know?” “Because I want you to put down Princess Cadance and Shining Armor for that spot.” Chrysalis said in a calm tone, holding up her hoof before her secretary could ask any questions. “Do not bother asking, I know just as much as you do about that, just put them down and we will see next week. Now, if you will excuse me, you can send my first appointment in when they arrive.” No sooner than Chrysalis had sat in her seat, Celestia and Discord entered her office, and she was surprised by their appearances. Discord was sporting rather formal attire, his own version of a solar regalia that looked like a finely tailored suit, looking as if it was cast from the smoldering plasma of the sun itself. His mane was slicked back, giving the professional look of a wise noble, his wings shining like never before. Celestia, meanwhile, was sporting a very wild look. Her mane and tail still floated in an ethereal wind, but it had so many knots and split ends that Rarity would faint at the sight of it. Her coat was ragged and rough, uneven in some areas that made it look like she was partially shedding and a little dirty. Her wings were unkempt, several feathers dangling or broken on either side, with a very unstable look in her eyes that nearly made Chrysalis want to teleport to a safe place. “Well, it seems you two have took on the appearance of your roles quite well.” Chrysalis said while trying her best to avoid looking into Celestia’s eyes. “Question is, how well have you two taken up each other’s duties?” “I have taken up the mantle of raising and lowering the sun very well.” Discord said straightening his tie, one that bore the symbol of the sun. “It is easier than having to deal with chaos magic all the time, and it really is a nice change of pace having specific duties to do.” “Very well,” Chrysalis said feeling pleased with herself, that is until she had to force herself to look at Celestia, the Alicorn of Anarchy. “and how are you adjusting Celestia? Keep in mind that it has been a week, you ready to return to your role that destiny had set forth for you?” “No,” Celestia’s tone and grin sent pure fear down Chrysalis’ spine, but the plentiful amount of love that was being emitted washed the feeling away and left her feeling slightly love drunk, “me and Dee Dee already discussed this matter before coming here, and we both reached the same conclusion. In the week we have spent in each other’s roles, we realized that we are more suited for our new duties, so until further notice we will continue this exchange.” “We really owe you a lot Chrysalis,” Discord said with a genuine smile as he held one of Celestia’s hooves, giving her a loving look. ”You’ve saved our relationship and showed us how we were meant to be. How can we ever repay you?” “I think you have paid me enough.” Chrysalis said with a burp, her eyes slightly glazed over. “I think our work is done, but just to be on the safe side, I am issuing a six month follow up. So, unless there is something major that has to be discussed, you two are dismissed.” The couple then left, with Mrs. Harshwinny bringing in another love collection container, but Chrysalis waved it off. “You’ve got twenty five minutes to find me one bigger than that, the amount of love coming off those two was intoxicating. I swear, my drones are already eating well as a result of this business, but those two alone provide the equivalent of a five course dinner. Go see what you can find while I digest and spread what I can.” While Mrs. Harshwinny went to get a bigger collection bin, Chrysalis leaned back in her chair and started to drain away the excess love out of her body and into her drones. They eagerly soaked it up, taking their fill before receding in the hivemind once more to return to their normal tasks. Even after sharing with her drones, Chrysalis felt bloated, her body having already taken what was needed. One thing that interested her was the fact that a few of her holes looked smaller, something she mentally noted to inspect after dinner. “I had Princess Cadance make a bigger bin for you.” Mrs. Harshwinny said entering with what looked like a ten gallon ice cream tub with a resealable lid. “She hopes that this will be big enough for the time being Your Majesty, until some more can be made. I also told her when her appointment is, and she is fine with it.” “Thank you Mrs. Harshwinny,” Chrysalis said sitting the tub by her chair and pouring her excess love into it, to her surprise it got filled halfway. “looks like you were just in time too, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie should be waiting in the lobby.” “I will send them in right away Your Majesty.” Mrs. Harshwinny replied with a bow as she fetched Chrysalis’s next appointment. The moment the pegasus and Earth Pony entered the room, the changeling was hit by a very unusual cocktail. “Loyalty, happiness, a hint of betrayal, and a dose of love…” Chrysalis herself was confused as to why that concoction was evident, but being the professional she was, she knew she would find out soon. “How may I help you two on this fine morning?” “Princess Cadance suggested we pay you a visit Your Majesty, considering that she is tied up in paperwork and is unavailable to help.” Pinkie said, putting a tray of cupcakes on the table, the aroma hitting Chrysalis in the gut like a love punch as she stared at the baker. “She told us the price for a visit was love, so I infused some of my love of cooking and my friends into the batter, I hope you like them.” Chrysalis had never been too fond of pony food, preferring to feast on positive emotions instead, but this was one time she gladly made an exception as she ate her fourth cupcake. The frosting was light, the cupcake itself moist and flavorful, and was packed with enough love that she felt like she was gorging on the Crystal Heart. “I swear if you were a changeling you would be my personal chef.” Chrysalis said after a small burp, her face turning pink in embarrassment. “Excuse me for that, but anyways let’s get to your problem. I have a very full slate today and don’t want to risk my appointments running over.” “Alright, here is the deal,” Rainbow said stretching out on the couch, her form fitting Wonderbolt outfit pulling taut against her curves. “it is my birthday today, so of course Pinkie wants to throw me a party. However, I have Wonderbolt practice in an hour and a show in Baltimare tonight before going on a two week tour.” Chrysalis facehoofed, not believing the situation that had been brought to her. “I’m surprised Twilight didn’t solve this problem, just have the party before practice or after the show. Now I see why I picked up a bit of betrayal, Pinkie feels as if you are choosing your career over her, is that assessment correct?” Pinkie blushed hard enough that it showed through her coat, an impressive feat in Chrysalis’ eyes as the baker looked down at the floor. “You’re correct Your Majesty, considering I am using my lunch break to be here, it is a hassle trying to keep up with her schedule.” “So you think it will be better if you called things off?” Chrysalis asked raising an eyebrow, and much to Rainbow’s shock Pinkie nodded. “I can tell you that will be a very bad idea, because you both love your jobs in addition to each other, so finding balance is key. Rainbow, perhaps you can suggest to Spitfire to start having your practices outside Ponyville? That way Pinkie can watch you perform as she works, the worse Spitfire can do is say no.” “What about when I go on tour?” Rainbow asked, as she sat up and started to straighten a few feathers. “The Cakes have already said that Pinks is needed at the shop, and I got a pretty good earful the only time I tried sneaking Pinkie on a trip.” “Rainbow, you are the fastest pony I know.” Chrysalis said narrowing her eyes slightly. “I’m sure that you can zip back home after every show to at least give Pinkie a hug. I understand your wings being tired, I have had more than a fair share of those circumstances, but do you think that Pinkie is worth a little extra cramping? I’m sure that she will give you massages between each tour.” “You know what Chrysalis?” Rainbow said getting up to give Pinkie a nuzzle, the affection causing Chrysalis’ wings to softly flutter. “You're right! I gotta be more of a wingpony for my Pinks! What she needs is is just as important as what I need… no, wait more important!"” “I need to give a bit as well,” Pinkie said giving the pegasus a tight hug. “I need to accept that her being gone for extended periods of time is part of the relationship, but no matter what she loves me.” Chrysalis smiled, content that she had resolved another relationship problem. “That’s the spirit you two, just remember the Elements that you used to possess. Pinkie, use your laughter to make Rainbow’s day, cheering her up after a tough session as a Wonderbolt. Rainbow, show your loyalty to Pinkie, thinking only about how much she cares about you when you are feeling down.” “Thanks for your help!” Pinkie cheerfully said giving Chrysalis a bear hug, the queen gladly returning the gesture. “You know, maybe you aren’t such a big meanie after all, just misunderstood.” “T-thanks?” Chrysalis was floored by what Pinkie had said, surprised that a pony would actually understand her. Then again, this was the only Earth Pony she knew who could teleport and fly at will. Pinkie was out the door in a blur of cotton candy, leaving Rainbow in her dust. “Before you leave, can you do me a favor Rainbow?” “Depends on what it is,” Rainbow said shrugging her wings. “what do you want me to do Your Majesty?” “It is two things actually.” Chrysalis said, getting up and moving over in front of Rainbow, the pegasus taking a step back in response. “The first thing is simple, never let Pinkie go, Rainbow, I don’t know what it is but there is something special about her. That is something you should keep close to your heart, I know that we have been enemies in the past, but it took a lot of courage to face your fears and agree to the appointment.” “I had to do it for her,” Rainbow said looking up at Chrysalis’ emerald eyes, her own magenta ones glistening just from thinking about Pinkie. ”and I will take your advice. So what is the other thing that you want from me?” “Five front row tickets to the show in Baltimare tonight and a signed Wonderbolt poster.” Chrysalis said ruffling Rainbow’s mane, earning a squeak from the smaller mare. “I think that you have enough pull to make that happen don’t you?” “Y-yeah…” Rainbow said with a blush, Chrysalis smirking at the embarrassment being given off by the mare who was well known to be stubborn as a mule, only bested by Applejack in that department. “Anyways, I think Pinks might get something planned now, so I will just go to practice late. Spitfire will be mad but it is my birthday, so if she doesn’t understand oh well. I will see you and your guests tonight.” Rainbow left and Chrysalis looked out the door, Twilight was sitting on the sofa snacking on some celery with a book beside her. “You are here early Twilight, your appointment isn’t for another thirty minutes.” Twilight jumped, not realizing that her councilor was watching her snack on her mouth watering treat. “I rather be early than late Chrysalis, and I figured that I would help myself to the snack tray while I was waiting.” “By all means help yourself, there is plenty.” Chrysalis said stepping back into her office, Twilight following with the book and tray in her magic as she sat in the seat across from Chrysalis. “I am going to be blunt here Twilight, I never thought that we would be meeting under these circumstances.” “To be honest,” Twilight said munching on another celery stalk. “neither did I, I always imagined our next encounter being one involving me kicking your flank to the other side of the Badlands. However, seeing the work you have done with Discord, Celestia, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders cleared enough doubt from my mind for me to set this up.” “So why do you need this anyway?” Chrysalis said as she leaned up, propping her forelegs on the table. “Is this a problem not even the mighty Princess of Friendship can fix? Sorry if I am sounding rude, it is just that for somepony who has everything, why would she come to her own personal enemy for help?” “Because I found something that will greatly interest you Chrysalis,” Twilight said, calmly levitating the book she had onto the desk. “I’m sure that you recognize the writing.” Chrysalis looked at the alicorn confused, but with nothing to lose she started skimming through the book. It only took a few pages for her breath to become caught in her throat, not believing the notes that she was reading. “Twilight… how did this come into your care?” “I was looking through some of the older works I have in my library and came across it.” Twilight said, poking her head out into the lobby and asking for another helping of celery, Mrs. Harshwinny delivering it and once again shutting the door. “I noticed it was written in the changeling language, thought you could shed some light on its origin considering it is a spell book.” “This isn’t just any spell book Twilight,” Chrysalis said, holding the delicate work to her chest. “it is one that is given to young drones by their queen as they start to mature with their abilities. I myself had one identical to this, for this is my mother’s hoof writing, back when she was a queen and I was just a princess nymph.” “Chrysalis, I was not expecting you to say that.” Twilight said, putting a hoof on the changeling’s withers. “Since it is that important to you, consider it a pardon gift for previous encounters.” “Thank you Twilight,” Chrysalis said, abruptly hugging the alicorn, catching Twilight off guard. “You have no idea just how much this book means to me. I thought them all lost to the sands of time, it has been four centuries since she died and I took her place. Although I wonder, just how much of the book did you translate?” “Most of it,” Twilight said, suddenly finding the potted ficus in the corner of the room more interesting to look at. “Thorax was a major help in that, but there were some phrases he couldn't translate. I found the section about transforming and collecting the most interesting.” “Considering you are an actual pony of magic that is no surprise,” Chrysalis said, with a smirk. “Did you try to use the spell in the section you just mentioned?” “I did,” A bright purple ball formed around Twilight, and when it died down Chrysalis was stunned. Not only had Twilight used the spell, she had turned herself into a mirror image of Chrysalis. “now stand aside imposter and bow to me, the true Queen of the Badlands hive.” Feeling a bit mirthful at the fact Twilight had even managed to copy her voice, Chrysalis called upon her own fire, turning herself into a copy of Twilight while casting a bubble of silence around the room. “You evil bug! I just knew that this was just another trick of yours to try and claim all the love for yourself, now prepare to get blasted back to the Tartarus pit you came out of after my friends dethroned you.” “You can try and beat me Sparkle,” The fake Chrysalis laughed, sending shivers down the fake Twilight’s spine, only for her to be planted against the wall by some resin that blocked her magic. Chrysalis was impressed about how well Twilight was acting as her, a case of the grass not being greener coming to her mind, “but once again you have walked right into a trap. It was foolish of you to come alone, because now I have you cornered one on one. Now sit tight and get comfortable, because once my drones arrive, you will be put in a pod to help fuel the upcoming invasion.” “Bravo Twilight,” The fake alicorn said with a smile. “you really did a good job capturing the essence and fear that I used to cause you and your friends. Now if you would be so kind, can you get me out of this resin?” “No problem Chrysalis.” Twilight said, turning herself back to normal, minus the fact she had kept her pupils slitted, and removing the goo so Chrysalis could resume her normal form as well. “I took acting classes at university, thought it would be a fun idea to put that skill to good use since I know how to transform now.” “Just be careful Twilight,” Chrysalis said, in a cryptic tone. “you are messing with a form of magic that alicorns were not meant to wield. I would suggest you stay away from it totally, but knowing you that is going to be impossible, also change your eyes back to normal since they are still slitted.” “That is on purpose since I am about to go visit Dragon Lord Ember.” Twilight said, as she headed for the door. “Anyways, I will definitely be spreading the word of your business since you get my seal of approval. Good luck.” With that Twilight teleported away, Chrysalis noting the emerald sparks that were mixed in with Twilight’s normal teleport color. Relaying a message by drone was really easy, so Chrysalis had Slip Stream go after Twilight while her next appointment came in. “Hello there Your Majesty,” Cheerilee said, with a bow. “my relationship problem is a little weird. Over the past few months, I have noticed that my love for teaching is just not what it used to be when I was younger.” Chrysalis reached out her senses, finding that Cheerilee was correct. The love the teacher had for her job was still there, in fact it was still strong, but the queen could tell that it was a dying flame. “Is it the students that you have? I know of many teachers and professors that have retired and quit because of how their class behaved.” “Oh no, it is nothing like that Your Majesty!” Cheerilee said, sitting up straighter in her seat. “It's just that I love my job, and I love gifting knowledge to little fillies and colts, but it feels like I am not going anywhere at my age. I have applied to other institutions, including Canterlot High School, but each turned me down on the grounds that they already have enough teachers.” “Why not try and study outside of Equestria, has that crossed your mind at all?” Chrysalis was intrigued, the love coming off Cheerilee was spicy and exotic, showing a mare of many travels and knew many things. “Perhaps try and file dual citizenship in the Dragon Lands to help teach the young ones there, I know of no schools in that territory, so I’m sure that Ember will be open to the idea.” “That is a wonderful suggestion!” Cheerilee said, doing a small dance where she now stood. “I will send her a letter as soon as I get back to Ponyville, now you should get your payment.” Cheerilee held up a hoof, allowing her councilor to take a drink of the love she had to offer. Chrysalis took a very small sip, her mind buzzing with new Equestria knowledge and a little of dreadful calculus thrown in. The teacher left, and a quick glance at the clock showed that Chrysalis had an hour and a half to kill, so the changeling gathered the love container and headed back into the lobby. “You have done a wonderful job today Mrs. Harshwinny,” Chrysalis said, after making sure her office was locked up. “how about you take the rest of the day off? I only have one client left today, plus she and I agreed that it would be an out-of-office visit so there really isn’t a need for you to be here alone.” “Most gracious offer Your Majesty,” Harshwinny said, getting up from her desk. “see you bright and early tomorrow?” “Considering we are starting an hour earlier, be here at 8:30.” Chrysalis said, as she met up with her assigned guards. “However, I want you to meet me in the throne room tonight at 6, I have a reward in store for you for all your hard work.” “I will see you then Your Majesty.” Mrs. Harshwinny said, before heading off to another area of the castle, presumably her room as Chrysalis started going the opposite direction towards the throne room. “Are Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor busy right now?” Chrysalis asked as she trotted along in lock step with her guards. “No ma'am,” Corporal Bright Shard said from Chrysalis’ right side. “They both needed a break from paperwork so they are taking a recess in the throne room so their eyes can readjust.” “Good, I request that you and Sergeant Crystalline here take me there so I can speak to them.” Chrysalis said, needing to pause for a moment to make sure that the love container was firmly on her back and would not fall off. Reason being that she almost dropped it when they rounded a sharp cornerway. Both guards saluted and led her to the throne room, where Cadance and Shining sat in their thrones with bloodshot eyes. “Prince Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, I was wondering if you had any plans after dinner tonight?” “Besides getting some shuteye no,” Shining replied with a yawn. “why do you ask Your Majesty?” “What if, by some hypothetical chance, I was able to acquire tickets to tonight’s Wonderbolt performance?” Chrysalis said, as she proudly strolled across the crystal floor, her reflection showing just like it would in a well polished mirror. The tactical queen did not need to reach out her senses to see the spark that lit in both ruler’s eyes at the prospect of getting away for a few hours. “Would you two want to go?” “That would be great,” Cadance said, with a tired smile. “however, me and Shiny have not looked into attending on the account the show has been sold out for weeks.” “Well surprise!” Chrysalis beamed, her smile threatening to split her jaw. “Since you two graciously gave me the chance to prove myself, I had it arranged with Rainbow that we get front row seats.” Cadance and Shining jumped out of their seats, a sudden boost to their energy levels flowing through them as they now had something to look forward to after their daily duties were done. Cadance teleported away to get started on the next batch of paperwork, leaving Shining Armor alone. “Once again you have surprised us Your Majesty,” Shining said, practically bouncing in place. “Although, what are we going to do about Flurry? Somepony has to watch her while we are gone, and no offense, I don’t quite trust her in your drones’ hooves yet.” “That is understandable,” Chrysalis said as she, Bright Shard, Crystalline, and Shining made their way towards the room that Cadance had teleported to. “but I requested five seats for us. In addition to me, you, and Princess Cadance, Mrs. Harshwinny will also be joining us, and the fifth seat is for Sunburst so he can hold Flurry during the show.” “Wow, you really thought everything out, Your Majesty,” Shining said, as he reached his destination. “I think I am speaking for both me and Cady when I say that we thank you for giving us the opportunity to get away for a bit.” “No problem at all Prince Armor, keep in mind I had a full hive to run so I know the stress involved.” Chrysalis said as she stood in the doorway, Shining going across the room to help his wife finish up. Once she saw the full scale of the paperwork involved, the queen buzzed two law-minded drones to come help, hoping to relieve some of the pressure. “Even I found the time to get away, although it was harder than how you two go on a retreat. Keep in mind, my drones know my location at all times, so I can’t completely go off the grid even if I wanted to. Now then, I just buzzed two drones who were infiltrators in the legal department during my first invasion to come help you. After all, I think some ponies will be quite sore if you two fell asleep during the air show.” “Thank you Your Majesty,” Cadance said sighing in relief. “so when do you plan on us meeting up to head out?” “6pm in the throne room,” Chrysalis said in a tone that showed that time was firm. “that way we all can have dinner and a quick shower to freshen up. I have already told Mrs. Harshwinny, and I am going to have a drone inform Sunburst before I head to my next appointment. Now if you will excuse me, I’m going to have a late, light lunch considering I have been snacking on love all day, but I still need something solid on my stomach.” “We will see you at dinner then.” Cadance said with a nod of understanding. “So is there any other matter you need to ask while you are standing there, or can it wait until tonight when we have more time?” “There is one thing, but it can wait.” Chrysalis said as her two drones, Loop Hole and Case Closed, teleported into the room. “These are the two drones that will help with your paperwork, they are very detailed and will not hesitate to correct you on anything that they find bordering on illegal or immoral. Now have a good afternoon.” Chrysalis headed to the kitchen after dropping off the love canister in her room. Choosing to only have an alfalfa burger and a side of Kale Slaw, she made quick work of the meal before teleporting to Ponyville Spa. Before leaving she gave the two guards strict instructions that, if she was not back in an hour, to come and hunt her down and transport her back to the Empire in shackles. Upon arriving in the quiet town, she quickly took the disguise of an emerald colored pegasus mare with a light blue mane and tail before entering the establishment. “Emerald Sky!” A peppy pegasus, with a scarlet coat and sapphire mane and tail, said giving the disguised queen a hug. Chrysalis did a quick love transfer, knowing that her client needed all the extra help she could get. “I am so glad to see you sister, it has been far too long.” “Indeed it has Scarlet Sea,” Chrysalis said before breaking the hug. “I assume that everything has been set up already?” “Yep! The steam room is all ours for the next forty-five minutes, and nopony will bother us while we are in there.” Scarlet said, as they passed the reception desk, Aloe waving to the two as they trotted by. Once they reached the steam room, Emerald leaned in to whisper into Chrysalis’ ear. “Thanks for that love boost by the way, I really needed it.” “Anything for my clients,” Emerald said, as she and Scarlet entered the room and shut the door. Chrysalis dropped her Emerald disguise, before making sure that nopony was eavesdropping, then nodded to Scarlet for her to drop her own disguise. A vibrant flame surrounded Scarlet, revealing a changeling that looked much like Chrysalis, but had an orange mane and tail instead of silken blue. “especially you Shaushka. Now come and lets sit on the bench while we relax and you talk things out with me.” “That would be great.” The timid changeling said taking her seat beside Chrysalis, the steam easing the tension out of her chitin. “You see, me and Comet Trail were having a nice relaxing dinner at Hayback Wheelhouse when a fire broke out in the kitchen. The cook was on his first day on the job, and somehow thought it would be a good idea to throw water on the fire, causing it to spread due to working with haybacon grease. We were at a table very close to the fire, and despite me using my magic to keep it contained, I was exposed to the heat long enough for my disguise to falter.” “That’s when he broke up with you?” Chrysalis asked holding the now-weeping Shaushka against her barrel in a comforting embrace. “Just give it some time dear, he might come around and give you another chance, if there’s one thing I know it’s that ponies are good at that. You are my oldest friend, and I have not steered you wrong before.” “He said we were done Chryssy!” The orange haired changeling cried out while hiding her eyes by planting them against Chrysalis’ chitin, trying to muffle her bitter tears. “I actually loved that stallion, and that is something that I have not been able to say in a very long time. We were planning on getting married, but now all that is gone because he lost all trust and faith in me. He gave me the same old ‘I can’t be with you, because there should have been no secrets’ crap that has haunted me like a plague caused by the Smooze.” “Calm down Shau,” Chrysalis whispered in her friend’s ear, “I will tell you what I’m going to do. It just so happens that I got a bit of extra love that I can give you right now, and I will write an anonymous letter to Twilight to file your issue as a friendship problem. That way, she can summon both of you to Friendship Court to talk it out like adults. However, during the court session you need to be undisguised, and tell him your true feelings, I think that all things considered he will see that he acted badly and will take you back.” “I certainly hope so Chrys,” Shaushka said, looking up at Chrysalis as she attempted to dry up her tears. “sure you got love to spare though? I mean, the last time we talked your hive was on the brink of collapse, what changed since then?” “Remember that worse case scenario that I told you about?” Chrysalis said, teleporting in a handkerchief for her friend to wipe her eyes with, waiting until she got a nod to continue. “Well, it happened, so I went to Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor on my own accord and presented them with that offer. I don’t blame them for their hesitation, but they finally agreed and it has worked out better than any of us could have imagined. I’m probably the most important non-royal in the Empire right now, and to be honest I couldn’t be happier.” “Glad to hear that everything is working in your favor,” Shaushka said, giving Chrysalis a small smile, one that tore through the veil of sadness that she had been experiencing. “hopefully with a bit of luck your good fortune would spread to me.” “Speaking of,” Chrysalis said, as she channeled her magic, tapping into the extra love stored in the container in her room and funneling it into her friend. Shaushka briefly was surrounded by a pink hue before it sunk into her body, making her chitin look freshly polished and her mane and tail glisten like a fine morning dew. “there is the love delivered as promised. I expect to have a follow up with you after your court session with Twilight, the amount of love I gave you should hold you over in the meantime.” “Oh trust me it will,” Shaushka said, as the two queens redisguised. “and don’t worry, my lips are sealed as to how I obtained this much love. Since our session is up, I will see you soon dear sister.” “Yes you will, take care until then.” Chrysalis said, as the two exchanged one last hug before heading their separate ways, Shaushka to her hive, and Chrysalis back to the Crystal Empire to prepare for a post dinner trip to Baltimare.