Nightmare Night

by Dreadnought


Chapter 15: Stress Relief

"Thank you, Princess," said the noble as he fell into a bow.

Celestia nodded in return.

The noble rose and left the throne room, the heavy doors closing behind him.

Stretching her wings to to the fullest extent, Celestia remarked, "That was a long session of court."

The captain of the guard, struggling to stay awake, shook his head to focus and replied, "Yes, your highness."

Celestia stood from her cushioned throne and said, "I'm in serious need of some relaxation." She fixed her captain with a hard glare. "I am not to be disturbed."

The captain snapped to a salute as the door closed behind the princess.

"Relaxation?" said one of the guards. "Probably headed to the kitchen to pig out."

"Yeah," responded another, "maybe we should warn the cooking staff."

"Princess of cake," laughed a third.

The captain, too tired to discipline his lieutenants, trotted off to bed.


Celestia descended the spiral stone staircase. Step after step, flight after flight. Only the glow of her horn allowed her to see the way ahead. At last she reached the bottom, beholding the crystal caves that lay beneath Canterlot. She trotted over to an alcove. Behind several thick iron bars, concealed in the shadows, sat a form. Green eyes slowly opened.

Celestia raised a jar and popped open the lid. A red aura came out and swept into the cell. "Eat up," said Celestia with a wry smile.

"Bleah. It hate puppy love."

"Love is love to you changelings," replied Celestia.

"I wish you'd just let me starve."

"Oh, and miss our time together?"

"I'd rather die," retorted Chrysalis.

"Well, where'd be the fun in that?" asked Celestia with an evil grin. Her horn glowed and a lightning bolt erupted from the tip.

Chrysalis let out a piercing scream as she writhed in agony. Wisps of smoke rose from her chitin skin.

"You should know that day court was particularly stressful, so I need a lot of relaxation." Celestia's horn built up another charge....