//------------------------------//
// Only the Beginning 
// Story: The Queen of Hearts 
// by Pumpernickel Rye 
//------------------------------//


Only the Beginning


“Doctor Whooves’s fate seems to be bleak,” spoke Zecora. “The end of this tale shall be discovered next week. Do not let this cliffhanger leave you feel sour. It is now time for Iron Will’s Power Hour!”

Loud rock music suddenly boomed from the radio. “And now, here is your host, the king of the ring, the bull in the china shop, Iron Will!”

The intro music continued playing for a moment before it faded. “Welcome to Iron Will’s Power Hour: the toughest radio show in all of Equestria! I know all you folks are excited for another weekly lesson to learn another fighting move from the master himself, but we’re changing things up a bit.” A gasp sound effect was played. “Normally we wait until the end of the show before doing the interview, but there’s no way I can wait with everything that’s been happening! With me is one of Equestria’s most famous ponies. A pony who shoots an arrow of love into your heart, or rip it out if you tick her off, please welcome Cherub!”

“Hello, Iron Will. It’s great to be here. Luna’s a huge fan of yours and has even taken me to one of your wrestling matches.”

“And what a match that was! The Macho-Taur thought he had me, but I showed him! So tell us why you’re here.”

“I’m here for two reasons. The first is I want to explain my actions that led to what happened two weeks ago in Ponyvlle and set the record straight. I would have chosen an actual news program, but those vultures slandered Luna and myself during the first few weeks of our relationship and some of their reporters follow me home, so they’ll get nothing from me.”

“Luckily for you, I minored in journalism in collage, so you’re in good hands.”

“What was your major?”

“Fighting!” roared Iron Will, followed by the sound of a crowd cheering.

“That brings me to my second reason. Two of my friends begged me to come on this show since you give tickets to anyone brave enough to come on. Speaking of which, I’d like to give a shout out to my friends Rainbow Dash and the Great and Powerful Trixie. Trixie, I hope you enjoy this parting gift from me and I wish you luck on your tour. Thank you for all of your services and you will be dearly missed.”

“What about you? Don’t you like watching two muscular guys wrestling in the most extreme way possible?”

“Under certain circumstances,” she answered dirtily.

One of the goats played a fire alarm sound effect. “Whoa, way to crank up the heat! Anyway, I heard you’re tough, and this show is for tough people only, so I won’t be surprised if you end up running home and crying to your mommy because of how tough and unforgiving I can be! Would you like some tea?”

“I would be delighted.”

The microphone picked up the sound of him serving her. “So Cherub, are you ready to step into the ring?”

“Bring it on.”

“We have a challenger!” The sounds of a cheering crowd and a bell being rung played for several seconds. “Alright, I have several subjects I’d like to have you tell us about. First up, we want more details on this changeling jelly you have been selling to the public for several months.” The minotaur cleared his throat. “Let me just say that that has got to be the ABOSULTE, MOST DISGUSTING THING I HAVE EVER HEARD OF AND YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED FOR DECEIVING THE PUBLIC LIKE THAT and we’re all curious of how you came across this discovery,” he finished in a calm and friendly manner.

Chrysalis sipped her tea and placed the cup back on the plate. “I am aware of how shocking it was to everypony and I am sorry for keeping it a secret for so long. When I first discovered its effects, I thought it would have help many find love and it didn’t hurt anypony. Well, until they found out what it was. Also, I needed the money to ensure my business survived and I chose to sell it out of desperation. I had a very rough start when I first opened Cupid’s Arrow and nearly became bankrupt. I just wanted something to ensure I was financially stable. Unless you’re famous like me, matchmakers don’t make that much money.”

“I’ve heard ponies doing desperate things for money, but that is really out there. From you have claimed, you acquired the jelly from a former changeling lover. Anything you’d like to tell us about him?”

“I won’t give his name since I wish to respect his privacy. I met him shortly after my wedding failed at a bar. I was a vulnerable, lonely mare, making me an easy target for him to feed. I caught on to him draining me when we kissed in my apartment, but I was okay with it. I even let the guy into my bedroom so we could…you know.”

“It’s getting steamy in here!” The goats played a wolf whistle sound effect. “So what happened during this ‘climatic’ moment?”

Chrysalis loudly chuckled. “I was depressed with losing who I believed was my soul mate and I just wanted to feel like I was worth something. The guy felt sorry for me and once we finished, we snuggled and talked. He was such a sweet changeling for listening to me and I was sad when he left. As an expert on love, let me tell you boys how important it is to listen to what we girls have to say. Listening goes a long way.”

“You heard her. Either give your girl an ear, or get the heck out of here!”

“About a week later, we met again and continued our relationship as strictly business. I gave him love and he gave me company every week.”

“This is certainly a fascinating tale, especially since you openly opposed changelings for quite some time. So where does the jelly come in?”

“It’s rather embarrassing, but I will tell you anyway. As we kept meeting, I wanted to do more interesting things in the bedroom just to forget about my marriage. One of the things we did was do it in a cocoon.”

“Wow! That is some kinky stuff!”

“Indeed. Something about hanging from the ceiling really gets me going. I suggest you all try it. Anyway, during our time, I accidentally ingested some and panicked. He told me about where it came from and how the slime was made while mentioning that it was harmless to help me relax. Somehow, at that moment, I got a crazy idea. I experimented with it by feeding to my friends in secret or even on myself and it produced rather surprising results. The rest is history.”

“Speaking of history, you certainly made some by creating one of the most disastrous holiday events in Equestrian history. There’s been rumors about you facing various lawsuits for causing many ponies physiological harm.”

“There were lawsuits, but my business partners Flim and Flam provided me with two of the best lawyers I have ever seen by having all of them dropped. I’d like to personally thank Flip and Flop for helping me in my time of need and I would recommend them to anybody in need of a lawyer.”

“You certainly dodged a bullet there. I think the strangest thing is that ponies are actually considering selling it.”

“I am surprised as well. Apparently, many scientists took a lot of the slime for research and discovered it was quite nutritious for ponies. Not only that, but a lot of ponies couldn’t give up the stuff since they still found it to be delicious. Many businesses have been going to the Changeling Kingdom to cash in on this, labeling it as changeling honey.”

“Eating changeling jelly? Pass.” A barf sound effect was played. “On top of it, your brand is still the most popular by far for its quality taste and having the most potent effect in bringing consumers the sweet feeling of love. What is your secret?”

“Now, now, Iron Will. If I told you, I could lose my sales.”

“Good point. Alright, you did pretty well for round one, but are you ready to rumble in round two?”

“Of course. I’m only getting started.”

“Great!” The bell played once again. “Our next two topics are going to be about world events that people are eager to hear from you. So during your Hearts and Hooves Event, it was announced that Equestria is allowing the changelings to live among the ponies from Queen Nymph herself. Many ponies seem tense as they await the first arrivals as they apply for Equestrian citizenship, many expecting the worst. What are your thoughts?”

“I must say it is still overwhelming. I still remember the days when ponies protested Queen Nymph visiting Canterlot and actually threw things at her. Even though I was fearful them in the past, I have grown to accept them. Now that they have a potentially unlimited food source, they will have no need to act hostile towards anypony.”

“I hope you’re right. Listen up, you bugs! The ponies are being really cool about letting you in, so if you do anything to threaten these great people who also happen to be my audience, I will knock down your door and…huh? I can’t say that on the radio? Oh. Well, let’s just say you don’t want to be in the ring with Iron Will!”

“I’m sure they’ll listen to your advice.”

“Anything you wish to tell the people about the changelings?”

“Yes, there is something, actually. I just want to be sure the word is out that the changelings will be given identity rings that they are required to wear to ensure there is no shape shifting done with ill-intent. Their transformations will be monitored by your local law enforcement where detailed records of what form they use will be kept. I’d also like to say please, show them some love.”	

“What will Equestria’s future hold? Will it be peace at last, or an all-out royal rumble? Only time will tell.” Iron Will cleared his throat. “Alright, Cherub, you have made it to the final round! Now we’re going to talk about something that shook the entire world as we knew it! Something that every news outlet has yet to stop talking about because everyone is freaking out! A story so big that it nearly drowned out what happened with you! Do you know what I am talking about?”

“The arrest of the former queen Chrysalis.”

“Exactly! Even I was blown away by seeing her face on the front of my newspaper as I ran on my treadmill and lifted weights at the same time during breakfast! Of course, the princesses didn’t provide very much details about how this happened, but you’re here to give us answers, right?”

“Of course. I discussed this with Luna and she told me what I can and cannot say.”

“Excellent! Turn up the volume, listeners! We’re getting exclusive stuff right here! First question: How the heck did they capture her? I kept thinking they used something like fly paper.”

“Believe it or not, she turned herself in.”

A gasp sound effect was played. “WHAT!?”

“You heard me. Chrysalis willingly turned herself in to Queen Nymph.”

“Well I didn’t see that one coming. So why did Chrysalis do this?”

“Chrysalis came to Nymph within Equestria shortly after it was announced about the changelings. She appeared right before Queen Nymph and before the queen could do anything, she fell onto her knees and cried, saying that she was sorry. Chrysalis had learned a lot from living along with ponies and discovered the errors of her ways. It seems shortly before Hearts and Hooves, Chrysalis had fallen into massive depression because she thought her capture was inevitable and she just wanted to see her sister again.”

“But she didn’t buy that bull! We all saw Chrysalis in shackles as she was displayed in front of the public standing beside Queen Nymph and the princesses. So the good news is we will never have to worry about her again, so I guess everything will be fine after all!”

“Incorrect, Iron Will. She will be back and possibly be a changeling princess once more.”

A goat played a girly scream as the other fainted. “Tell me you are pulling my leg! That’s a joke we’d pull during our Nightmare Night special!”

“It is no joke and I want everyone listen to me. Yes, Chrysalis has done evil things, including turning the Changeling Kingdom into an aggressive nation, but she deserves another chance. Celestia and Luna teach about friendship and forgiveness and it was those two things that have brought you Princess Luna, who many of you remained afraid of for a long time. I know you are all terrified by the idea of Chrysalis being free, but we are doing our best with her. The former queen is happy that her subjects no longer have to worry about starvation and refuses to do anything to stop that. I have met her myself and I could see how sorry she was in her eyes.”

“You better do a good job with her before unleashing her upon us all. So where is she now? What will this bug do until she is free?”

“Chrysalis is locked down in an undisclosed location as the princesses’ top ponies analyze her to determine if she is trustworthy or not. She will also be given secret missions that will benefit Equestria while heavily monitored in order to work off her debt to Equestria. I know many of you out there are afraid of her, but I beg of you, just take the time to understand her.”

“Well I hope she doesn’t get out within my lifetime. Now why did Chrysalis agree to go along with this?”

“It’s because she has no other path opened to her. She can try all she wants to get vengeance or be the queen again, but it will do her no good. She has ultimately lost. All she can do now is atone for her crimes and live with the shame. I’m afraid it will not be easy for people to trust her once more and many people don’t understand in the way they should.”

“You know what would help her?”

“Enlighten me.”

“If she wrote an autobiography!”

“An autobiography? Go on.”

“I remember the day I heard about the changelings. I was completely blown away by the idea of bug ponies who could look like other ponies and eat emotions and to top it all off, nobody ever heard about them! I would have bravely ventured to the kingdom myself to learn about and maybe even discipline the changelings myself, but Princess Celestia kept the location confidential until recently. I want to know more about this bug who stole away the lovely bride in her mad conquest for power. You know what they say: know your enemy! And yes, Iron Will does like to read! Just because he’s a big, muscular guy doesn’t mean he doesn't like to sit by the fire with a good book!”

“I think you have a splendid idea. I’m sure Chrysalis will get started right away if we give her the idea.”

“I’m sure it will be a big seller, whether because people are eager to learn more about her or want to set up a bonfire! One last question, Cherub. Where was Chrysalis all this time? For almost a year, Chrysalis vanished off the face of the planet and even with the outrageous security shortly after the wedding, she remained uncaught while only making one appearance.”

“Chrysalis had taken up residence in a city with Equestria since she was banished from her kingdom while maintaining a low profile. However, we are not ready to disclose to the public of what identity she chose.”

“Well at least the worst is over. The bug is behind bars, so rejoice! I’m afraid that’s all the time we have for the interview. Congratulations, Cherub! You have survived and are now Queen of the Ring!” Loud cheering played followed by fireworks and a heroic song.

Once it faded, Chrysalis said, “Thank you for having me, Iron Will. It was wonderful being here.”

“And as promised, here are two tickets to my next match. We’re cutting to commercial break, but when we get back, I will teach you sad sacks some important self-defense moves in case you are unfortunate to run into Chrysalis herself, so don’t turn that dial! I SAID DON’T DO IT!”





Chrysalis couldn’t remember how long she had spent staring at nothing, but after taking a deep breath, she calmly walked on the grass. Despite walking this path multiple times, her legs trembled more with every step. Chrysalis paid no attention the many pieces of history that rested around her, focusing on what was most important to her. At the end of her path, she placed the bouquet on the ground and sat.

“Hello, Mother and Father. It’s me, Chrysalis. It has…been a while since we talked and I’m afraid I can only use this form right now. I guess you already know why that is.” She paused for a moment. “You must be so disappointed in me. I…made so many mistakes as a leader and I hate myself for it. I lost sight of what my role was and used it to better myself, not the people. I even refused to listen to your warnings of attacking the outside world, Mother. We changelings are not savage beasts and yet that was the first impression I gave to the world we feared for so long in pursuit for power and glory.” She closed her eyes as she struggled to speak. “Our whole existence could have been wiped out had Celestia and Luna not been so kind hearted. I wish I could take it all back, but I have to live with this burden for the rest of my life.”

She looked toward the palace behind her. “At least it’s not entirely bad for us changelings. Have you heard about what’s happening? The changelings are going to live in Equestria along with the ponies in peace. Isn’t that just amazing? Many of them are actually going to start heading there today. After living like this for countless years, a new generation has been born and it’s all thanks to Nymph. Sweet little Nymph has proven herself to be a marvelous queen.” She slowly looked back to the graves, grim. “But even with all this good news, we have still let you both down. You taught us for so long to not repeat the history of our ancestors, of our grandmother and her sisters, but we did it anyway. We both got greedy and tossed aside everything you taught us, risking the stability of the entire kingdom. We both could have easily worked together to ensure the changelings thrived, but we wanted to be the one who would receive all the praise and glory, no matter the cost.”

She took a deep breath before sighing. “I want you to know our fighting is over. I have accepted what has happened and I just want it left in the past. We’re sisters again, but sometimes I worry. Sometimes when she looks at me, only for a moment, I see fear in her eyes. I think I may have deeply scarred her and sometimes…I want her to leave me alone because I get sick of her presence. I think it will be a long time until are things are truly normal between us and I fear of everything that will happen along the way.”

Chrysalis wiped her eyes and straightened her posture. “I’m sorry for making this incredibly depressing, especially since we haven’t seen each other in so long, but I have some good news. During my banishment, I made some wonderful friends with the ponies. I have hated them almost all my life and yet here I am. I am only here now instead of in a dungeon because of my close friend, Pinkie Pie. She discovered who I was and despite me threatening her home and herself, she had shown me how wrong I was and offered to help me. Next time I will bring her so you can meet her yourself.” She produced a small smile. “I should mention that she can be a weird pony sometimes. Think of her like the most entertaining as well as the most bizarre jester imaginable with a heart of gold. She always knows how to make you smile and is a friend you can always count on.”

“Now for another surprise. Do you remember that old fable of Nightmare Moon? The one you read to us as little hatchlings? Believe it or not, she actually is real and her name is Princess Luna.” Chrysalis suddenly giggled, blushing. “I have met her myself and we sort of…fell in love. I know you both weren’t always thrilled with the idea of me being gay, but she makes me very happy and I wish you both could meet her and her sister Celestia. I’ll be sure to bring her next time since I wanted to be alone with you both. I should also mention that our relationship is…in a bit of rough spot because I didn’t tell her soon enough who I was, but we are trying to make this work. Wish me luck, okay?”

Chrysalis got onto her hooves. “I wish I could stay and tell you both so much more, but I must be going now. Your subjects are going to soon make their way to Equestria for a whole new life and I will be accompanying them. It has been wonderful seeing you again. I’m afraid it may be a long time until I visit, but I want you both to know your daughter is safe. Rest well, Mother and Father.” She slowly stood and walked away.

She did her best to hide her sorrow when she returned to the gate, where her sister waited. “Are you okay?” asked Nymph as she brought her into a comforting embrace.

“I’m all right. I just got a little emotional. We should go back before anyone notices.” 

Nymph nodded and they began their walk to the palace. “I’m guessing your other visit will have to wait until next time.”

Chrysalis stared at the stone ground beneath her hooves. “I can’t face them. I think I may actually snap if I were to go there. Their deaths are my fault and I cannot even begin to justify how I…became their murderer.”

“I understand. We’ll just try again the next time you come if you do and we’ll get through it together.” Chrysalis was so caught up in her thoughts of guilt that she didn’t see the changeling waiting for them in the distance.  “Oh hello, Hornet! What are you doing here? How has the cleaning been going?” He said nothing, only staring intensely at the unicorn. “Haven’t you met her already? This is Cherub, matchmaker extraordinaire! I’ve been just showing her around the palace as part of a personal tour before she goes home.”

He gritted his teeth. “Nymph, why the buck is Chrysalis here?”

Nymph’s charming smile faded and Chrysalis broke away from her train of thought, alarmed. “C-Chrysalis?  I am not…”

Hornet slowly walked up to her, eyes locked with hers. “Oh? Then why were you at the graves of Queen Locera and King Scarab and giving them flowers? No pony knows them, so they would have no reason to visit them. On top of that, no changeling would need to disguise as a pony in the Changeling Kingdom. You are Chrysalis.”

Nymph pulled him over to her and bent down. “What do you want?” she asked in a hostile whisper.

“I just want to know what you are thinking. Bringing her here!?” he almost shouted as he motioned a hoof to Chrysalis. “If anyone catches wind of this…”

“They won’t,” assured the queen. “I am making very sure that does not happen.”

“And what if they do? This could radically damage the progress you have made, your highness! The Council could rightfully remove you from power for breaking a law you created!”

Nymph scoffed at him. “They won’t do that to me. I have far too much influence over my people now and they would never dare to remove the only royal changeling standing. Besides, Chrysalis is no danger to us.”

“They don’t know that! She needs to leave now!” He shot a glare at her. “Besides, we shouldn’t taint our kingdom with her presence.”

Chrysalis exposed her fangs and stepped forward, but Nymph held her back with a hoof. “I suggest you stop while you’re ahead, Hornet. And as your queen, I order to not mention this to anyone. I trust Chrysalis and I assure you she will behave. Things are different now and I will gladly put your fears to rest later.”

“And what about that little story you released about her turning herself in and being imprisoned? I gotta say that was a clever trick you just played on us. When the citizens of both kingdoms learn that you have lied to them and the evil Chrysalis has been walking among them because you allowed her to, I can’t imagine what they will do.”

“Hornet, I know what I am doing. I am no fool. I do not plan on revealing her until the time is right and when I do, I promise you that everything will be under control. Celestia, Luna, and I have considered this plan for a long time. You just have to trust us.”

“Fine.” He looked at the former queen and flapped his wings to get on her eye level. “If you are playing Nymph for a fool, I will be sure you will be laid right next to your parents very soon and trust me, your funeral won’t be open casket.” Hornet then made his leave by flying to one of the open windows of the palace.

“Who does he think he is?” snarled Chrysalis. “I may not be a queen anymore, but he has absolutely no right to talk to me like that.”

Nymph motioned a hoof and they continued walking. “He’s just looking out for me. He is right about what will happen if we’re caught before we do things our way, so he has every reason to be worried.”

“I guess, but I wouldn’t mind putting him in his place.” Chrysalis looked at her. “It’s probably best if I don’t come back until we have things settled. Who knows who else may catch on and one changeling is bad enough.”

Nymph sighed. “I suppose it is. Will you be okay?”

“I should be. Coming back here has been very helpful with dealing with I’m going through.” She playfully nudged her sibling. “Even I didn’t come, I still have you and that’s all I need.”  

As the courtyard got closer, Nymph suddenly said, “Wait.” Chrysalis turned to her and saw that she was avoiding eye contact. “There’s one more thing I want to do before we go back.”

“What is it, Nymph?” Chrysalis asked as she walked up to her.

Green appeared on Nymph’s cheeks and she looked around. “Can we do that one thing Cadance does?” she timidly whispered.

“Thing? What thing?”

“The cute thing,” she answered, unable to hold back her smile.

Chrysalis immediately turned away. “No.”

“Come on. Just for me?”

“Absolutely not,” she answered sternly.

“Please?”

The older changeling sat on the ground and crossed her forelegs. “Drop it. It’s dumb and we’re not doing it. Get over it.”

“Pretty please, Chrysie?” Nymph asked in her sweetest voice.

Chrysalis could feel the piercing stare of her sister’s pleading eyes from behind her. She looked at every window at the palace before turning to her. “Okay, Nymph. I will do this just for you, but only this one time.” She stood in front of sister and they faced each other.

“Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves together and do a little shake!” When they finished, Nymph laughed uncontrollably and Chrysalis blushed with a hoof over her face.

“Oh, that was fun! We should do it again real soon!”

Chrysalis walked away at an incredible pace. “Let’s never speak of this again.”

The queen caught up with her and pulled her back by her tail to put her in a headlock. “Oh come on, Chrysie. It wasn’t that bad. It was pretty cute.”

Chrysalis attempted to break free, but her sister’s grip was too strong. “It was childish, embarrassing, and if anyone ever finds out, I will just crawl into a hole to escape the shame.”

Nymph rubbed her hoof through Chrysalis’s mane as she struggled in protest. “Oh, lighten up. You’re too serious sometimes.”

“I am a full grown adult and I intent to act like one. Why you’re still allowed to behave like this as a queen is beyond me.”

Chrysalis was at last released and she attempted to fix her hair. “Phooey. I thought Pinkie would have more influence on you.”

Once everything was in place, the false pony looked at her. “Hey, it’s not that I don’t like it, it’s just I really would rather do it in private. I have a reputation, you know.”

“Oh, you’re no fun.” After some more walking, Chrysalis and Nymph eventually stood in the courtyard in front of the palace. Many changelings were still in the middle of cleaning the whole area by sweeping the confetti, tossing out any leftover scraps, and even wiping the words “Bumble Rules!” off the large wall that surrounded the palace. 

“This place feels so lifeless compared to last night,” spoke Chrysalis as she watched the workers.

“I’ll say. My first Pinkie party and it made every other party in my whole life feel so dull.” Nymph rubbed her head as she looked around. “Did we really have stage out here for bands to play? My head gets foggy when I try to remember what happened.”

Chrysalis bit her lip. “I remember Pinkie diving into a gigantic cake and covering us all with frosting, but not much else. I got a bit drunk.”

“I doubt we will see another celebration as grand as this again, but it was certainly special. She’s quite an amazing mare to have pulled something like this off on her own.”

“Pinkie mostly certainly is. You should have her plan your next birthday.” They left the cleaning site and stepped inside, where the guards on duty saluted their leader. The entrance of the palace heavily contrasted the outside of the palace with the white floors and walls and had two curved stairways to the second floor and each was covered with purple carpet.

The sisters ascended the right stairway and faced each other on the top. “I will go fetch my guards and head to the surface. Go grab your things and have Luna take you up. We must not keep them all waiting.”

“See you there.” Nymph pecked her on the cheek before the two changelings separated into different hallways. The guest rooms were in the east wing of the palace and it took some time just to walk there since they were on the farthest side. Chrysalis eventually reached the end of the halls with two doors on each of the walls and a glass stained window at the end that depicted an image the current queen. The halls felt just as empty as usual, which made them a great place for her and Nymph to hide or have fun in when they were children.

She opened the second door on the left, revealing a room with a polished wood floor, a massive bed with green sheets and pillows, a large red rug, a wardrobe on the left, a dresser on the right, and the bathroom. She stepped inside as her roommate placed her luggage aside. “Welcome back,” Luna greeted warmly. “How was it?” Chrysalis flopped on the bed, pressing her face against the cool side of the pillow. “Did something happen?”

“I couldn’t pay my respects to the soldiers. I just couldn’t face them.”

Luna sat on the edge of bed, brushing her hoof across Chrysalis’s mane. “Do you want to talk about it?”

Chrysalis turned herself and faced her. “It would be better if we did so tonight. Now is not the appropriate time for such a depressing discussion.”

Luna lied down next to Chrysalis and held her. “There will always be next time, Chrysalis, so don’t feel so down. Remember what you told me before: We have made terrible mistakes, but the only the thing we can try do now is make up for them, so do not dwell on what already has been done.” 

“I’ll try. Thank you, Luna.” Luna sat up and rustled Chrysalis’s mane, making them both smile. After a moment, Chrysalis sat up. She noticed that the closet was already empty and that her bag was sitting against the wall. “Did you pack my stuff for me?”

“It wasn’t any trouble. I just thought you could use a hoof.”

“You’re sweet.” She got off the bed and picked up the green duffle bag with her magic. “I’m guess I’m ready now.”

“Let’s see if Pinkie is ready as well.” They exited the room and Luna knocked on the door to the room across from theirs. “Pinkie Pie? It is time for us to depart. Are you ready?” 

“Uh…just a minute!”

Rather than wait, Luna opened the door. “We are going to be late if you don’t…what is the meaning of this!?”

Somehow, Pinkie’s small room looked just as messy as the entire courtyard outside. The floor was littered with confetti and cake, many balloons stuck to ceiling with some on the floor, and Pinkie’s party cannon (which nobody noticed she had until a drunk changeling got hold of it and opened fire) sat in the corner. “Pinkie!” snapped Chrysalis. “This…this room is a disaster! We’re going to be very late by the time we even get halfway through it all!”

“I know! I know! I just need a bit!” She shoved them back into the hall. “Wait right here!” Pinkie then slammed the door.

Chrysalis and Luna looked at each other. “You thinking what I’m thinking?” asked the pony.

“Charge in and use magic to clean everything in a timely manner?”

“Exactly.” Luna created a magical glowing number three that counted down. When it hit zero, they charged in. “Stand back, Pinkie! We’re going to need…oh.”

Pinkie closed up her saddle bag and threw it on. “I’m ready now!”

Luna walked in and carefully examined the spotless room. She opened the large garbage bag and saw it was filled to the brink with all the litter from earlier. “Maybe we should have you help outside.”

“I don’t think they will be too thrilled to see the pony who helped make the mess in the first place,” Chrysalis jested while patting Pinkie on the back.	

Luna couldn’t help but let out a laugh as she made the garbage disappear. “I suppose that is true. Now that we’re all ready, stand close to me. I will take us up top.”

They gathered around her but right as her horn began to glow, Chrysalis placed a hoof on it. “Hold on.”

“What is it, Chrysalis? Did you forget something?”

Chrysalis inhaled deeply. “Could we just walk outside?”

Pinkie and Luna exchanged confused looks. “Walk outside? I could just teleport us outside if you need something.”

“Please. I just want to walk outside the palace. Then we can teleport.”

Luna studied Chrysalis’s saddened expression and then nodded. “Very well. Lead on.”

They walked out of the room and down the hall with Chrysalis carefully examining the walls, carpet, and any painting or window they went by. Outside the hall they returned to the entrance and they descend the stairs as Chrysalis constantly looked around. The guards opened the doors for her and she nodded her head in appreciation. Right at the door, Chrysalis stopped and turned her head back before continuing seconds later. They walked out to the middle of the courtyard and the changeling turned back. She scanned her eyes across the magnificence of the obsidian palace and suddenly felt a hoof on her back. “This will be your home again soon, Chrysalis. I promise you that.” Chrysalis turned her head to Luna, smiling weakly. They then vanished in a bright flash of light, appearing at the mouth of the cave that led inside to Bugartha, where Nymph and many of her guards stood waiting, and immediately felt the cool morning air brush against them.

They had immediately taken noticed of their arrival and the queen approached them. “Ah, splendid. Everyone’s here. Did you all enjoy your stay?” 

“How could I not have!?” asked Pinkie as she jumped around. “That was like the craziest party ever! I feel bad my friends miss out, so I should throw one for them and make it even bigger!”

“Count me out. I think my body can no longer take your parties after last night,” stated Chrysalis as she rubbed the back of her neck. “I’m pretty sure your cake contained enough sugar to hospitalize some changelings and your music was loud enough to wake the dead. You went too far last night and I dread to think of what else you have even planned for the next one.”

The earth pony zipped to her and rubbed the top of her head. “Silly Cherub, it’s impossible to go too far for such a super important party!” Pinkie pulled out a scroll from her bag and unrolled it, sending several feet of paper dragging across the dirt. “Besides, I couldn’t do half the things I wanted to do, so you would really miss out if you didn’t come!”

“Maybe the reason I didn’t let you do half of those things is because they were major safety violations,” spoke Nymph sternly. “Launching fireworks inside of a cavern is not safe in any way, skydiving is rather difficult when you’re inside, and I don’t think many would do well swimming in a pool full of cake batter. Things got out of hoof enough as it was last night.”

“She’ll be sure to remember that,” stated Luna as she helped roll up the list. “At any rate, Nymph, your people’s wait is over. Go and get them ready for their journey.” The queen nodded and walked ahead with her guards following. Outside the cave, a massive crowd of thousands of changelings stood at the outskirts of one of the kingdom’s outside towns with a large banner that read “We’ll miss you!” in bright blue words hanging from one of the wooden buildings. Many changelings carried heavy bags on their backs as well as on some carts that were design for air transportation. There were also numerous carriages provided by Nymph in order to carry the young and the elderly as they would not be able to make the long journey on their own.

When Nymph came into their view, the changelings roared with cheering. She waved to them with a smile as she made her way to Luna’s blue stationed carriage that had a crescent moon on each door with everyone else following. Luna also received praise as they walked by and some changelings even tossed flowers at her, some of which she took. She, Chrysalis, and Pinkie stood nearby as Nymph went to address the people.

Nymph held up her hoof, gradually bringing to the crowd to silence. She lifted off the ground, hovering high above her subjects, and spoke using the voice taught to her by the princesses. “My fellow changelings, today is the day we have sought for so long. For the first time, you shall enter Equestria not under any disguise, but rather as your true self! You will not go to Equestria to hunt or steal, but to live. No longer shall you live with fear or hunger, but with harmony.

“I know many of you feel frightened to leave the kingdom to live somewhere so far away and different, especially since we had to fight so hard to gain the trust of the people, but I assure you will be fine. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna will be your leaders as you live within Equestria or Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor if you choose to live in the Crystal Empire, so please respect and obey their laws. They have worked with me for a long time to make this possible, so show them the utmost gratitude as they will do everything in their power to make certain that you happy with their kingdom.

“Even though I will remain here, know that I will continue to ensure you all live happy lives among the ponies by working with the Equestrian leaders. I wish all of you the best of luck as you live out your new lives and remember that the Changeling Kingdom always has its doors open to you. And now, please take this opportunity to say your goodbyes to your loved ones, for it may be a long time before you see them again.” At that moment, many changelings turned to each other, exchanging tearful hugs and goodbyes. 

“I’m going to miss you so much!”

“You better write to me every day!”

“Have fun in Equestria and don’t you dare do something that will screw this up for the rest of us!”

“It’s so hard to say goodbye, sis. Even if you’re gone, I’ll still root for you while you’re in Canterlot. You’ll totally get that guard job!” 

“Hey, isn’t that the crazy pony who made other ponies eat the slime?”

It was several minutes before the noise began to settle down. “Do not feel sorrow if you are leaving your loved ones or if they are leaving you,” spoke Nymph, bringing the rest of the noise to silence. “Feel joy that this is a new beginning for all changelings. This separation is only temporary and when the construction of the railroad is completed, traveling to or from Equestria will be a convenience, so this will not be your final goodbye. Now that you have said your farewells, only one thing remains for us to do.” Nymph’s guards flew beside her and many changelings began to take flight. “It is time for us to depart. We fly to Equestria!” Nymph turned and took off with her guards beside her, triggering a large buildup of the sound of buzzing as a massive wave of black followed her. Luna and the others stepped into the carriage and when the door was closed, the guards began their run.

As Luna’s carriage picked up speed and lifted up, they looked out the windows, entranced by the many changelings flying outside and Chrysalis gripped her seat tightly. Luna eventually heard Chrysalis’s loud, steady breathing and rested a hoof on hers. After a moment, Chrysalis relaxed and rested her head on Luna’s shoulder as they looked outside. “I wish I could join them out there,” Chrysalis said suddenly.

“You are here by their side and that’s all that counts,” spoke Luna as she rubbed a hoof on Chrysalis’s side. “Even if they still resent you, it was very noble of you to come.”

“I suppose, even if I only visited for my own benefit.”

Pinkie looked at Chrysalis. “So any idea how long you’re going to be living as Cherub? I can’t imagine what’s like to live as somepony else for so long, unless you’re one of those cool undercover cops like in the movies!”

Once she was certain the curtains were blocking the windows and the doors were locked, Chrysalis removed her disguise. “There’s no way to be sure, I’m afraid. It’s all about how we can remove their fear of me without me actually making an appearance. It could even be years before it is safe enough for me to reveal myself.” The pink mare slowly nodded and faced the floor. “Don’t be sad. It will be difficult, but I think I will be fine with the help of my dear friends.” A small smile grew on Pinkie’s face and Chrysalis sat up to look at Luna. “So what shall I do first when we return to Ponyville?”

“Greet the newcomers and make sure they know your name. It shouldn’t be too hard for you since you provide ample amounts of love as well as have a close connection to me.”

“Is befriending only some of the changeling population really going to help her?” asked Pinkie. “There’s like so many of them! We should just show everyone that she’s changed just like with Discord!”

The princess shook her head. “I wish it was that simple, but Chrysalis is very vulnerable compared to Discord. We must make absolutely sure the time is right before doing anything as it could easily put her life in danger. I am afraid that is all we can do at this time. It isn’t just about having people forgive her, but them not fearing her. If these changelings have a positive personal experience with her like several ponies do already, it will help immensely in the long run.”

“But that could be forever!” Pinkie leaned forward and gave her changeling friend a crushing hug. “I bet poor Chrysie already misses her home!”

Luna made a great effort to withhold her laughter as Chrysalis tried prying off the pony. “I’m sorry, but there isn’t much we can do about it. We must focus on helping the changelings fully settle before we attempt anything with Chrysalis.”

“Isn’t there anything we can do?” asked Pinkie with some desperation in her voice.

“You could try letting go of me as a start.” Pinkie at last released her and Chrysalis brushed herself off. “You’re already doing enough and I couldn’t ask for more. We can worry about it later. Right now, we should focus on giving these changelings the warm welcome they deserve.”

“You got it! So what do you want to do after that?” questioned Pinkie. “A private party!?” 

Chrysalis placed her hooves behind her head and kicked up her legs onto the seat across from her. “I would like to have a nice quiet dinner at home with all of you later in the week, but you may want to think on what you want to eat. I’ve been having a sudden craving for sushi lately and I intend to satisfy that desire.”

"I like sushi!” Pinkie stated as she licked her lips.

“The thing is, Pinkie, that I like mine with raw fish. Fortunately, some of Luna’s chefs know how to make some rolls for whenever a political figure from the Gryphon Kingdom comes by. I just want to have a nice night where we can take it easy and have fun. Tomorrow, I will be staying in Canterlot to spend time with Nymph before she returns to Bugartha, so you won’t see much of me for a while.”

Pinkie nodded and then took a peek outside the window. After a moment, she looked at Chrysalis again with a colossal grin. “And after that, do you know what that means!?”

“No.”

She sprung onto her hooves and grabbed Chrysalis’s head, pressing it against her own. “We get to work again, only with changelings to help! I’m so excited! Are you excited!?”

“Pinkie, what have I said about personal space?” The mare moved back to her spot, still smiling at her. “As for your question, I am indeed excited. I guarantee it will be most interesting to deal with our changeling clients, especially if they decide to give ponies a try.”

“Without all the secrecy, I hope.” Chrysalis visibly flinched and before she could say something, Luna pulled out a bouquet of flowers from behind herself. “Please forgive me for my comment. I know you’re truly sorry. Your people threw me a gift and I thought you would like them. You’re kind of a unique flower yourself, Chrysalis.”

Chrysalis took bouquet of flowers that came in a variety of colors, taking in their scent. “So is she a flower because she smells nice?” asked Pinkie happily.

“I was hoping she meant that I was pretty and she wanted to pollinate me.”

Luna covered her face with her hoof, laughing to herself. “Must you make a dirty remark about everything?”

“I can’t help it. Why don’t you help me wash away the filth? I’m a very dirty girl and I require a special method to get clean.” Chrysalis’s and Luna’s faces were less than an inch apart, each of them giving the other a dirty smile as Pinkie giggled madly. Luna gently pushed her back and Chrysalis looked at the flowers. “Joking aside, thank you for the flowers, Luna. They are beautiful.”

Pinkie glanced at the flowers, then at her bag, then at Luna and Chrysalis, then her bag again, and then finally her friends, smiling. “You know what goes great with flowers?”

“Do tell,” Chrysalis replied.

“Chocolate, of course!”

Both of the older mares stared at her hungrily. “Chocolate?” they asked at once.

“Yeah! Nymph gave me a whole bunch of chocolate and some really shiny things for being such a good friend of Chrysalis! They’re like those chocolate coins, but they’re huge bars! You two want one? Chocolate goes great with everything!”

“Just chocolate bars for that?” Chrysalis muttered to herself. “That doesn’t sound quite like her.”

“We would be most honored if you could share your treats with us,” Luna answered. Pinkie reached into her bag and pulled out what looked like three large gold bars and gave one to each of her friends, who immediately noticed something off. “What is this? Young Pinkie, this is real gold!”

The earth pony shrugged as she stared hungrily at the metal. “I never heard of that brand! I guess it’s only from the Changeling Kingdom. I bet it’s super tasty since Nymph gave me plenty!”

As Pinkie looked over the bar to find where to pull off the wrapper, Luna opened her friend’s bag, gasping in amazement. “This is all gold bars and jewelry! This has to be worth a fortune!” 

Chrysalis reached down and pulled out a golden chain necklace with an emerald butterfly on it, dangling it in front of her own eyes. “These are from the royal family’s vault. It is the only explanation of where Nymph acquired such wealth.”

“She gave Pinkie all that!? I must say she has quite the way of expressing her gratitude!” 

“It’s not a big deal. This is just a drop in the bucket to what we own. I should have known she would have rewarded her like this. She just couldn’t stop thanking Pinkie back then and nearly crushed her spine with hugs several times, so it’s no surprise she would be so generous in her reward.” She gently lowered the necklace back into the bag. “I planned on rewarding her with something similar, but it seems my sister has beaten me to the punch. Promise me you will always treasure these gifts, Pinkie. Some of this jewelry has been in my family for generations and you have certainly done enough to deserve WHAT IN TARTARUS ARE YOU DOING!?”

Luna looked back up from the bag, gasping loudly. “Pinkie, give me that!”

Pinkie pulled away as she continued biting the bar. “It’s mine! Get your own!”

“That’s not chocolate! That’s actually metal! You’ll hurt yourself trying to eat it!” warned the princess.

“Go away! The golden deliciousness is all mine!” 

Luna lunged toward her, but Pinkie hopped out of the way, landing on top of Chrysalis’s head. “Pinkie, enough fooling around! Give us the gold before I make you!” threatened the changeling.

“This is my only food! I will die from starvation if I don’t eat it because Equestria is really, really far away!” Chrysalis reached up for her, but Pinkie dashed behind Luna.

“Pinkie, stop this foolishness! Give it to us at once! It is for you own good!” The earth pony quickly jumped back to her seat to avoid Luna. Even with two-on-one in a small, enclosed space, catching Pinkie proved to be an extremely difficult task and they spent some time running around the carriage as they tried to save their friend from a sudden visit to the dentist.





When they crossed the Equestrian border, groups of changelings eventually broke off from the main swarm, heading to the various cities they chose to live at when they applied for their citizenship. They eventually arrived at Canterlot with less than half of the changelings remaining and many ponies in the city held a large welcoming party led by Celestia in the courtyard of the palace and the citizens were more than happy to greet Equestria’s newest citizens. Soon after their arrival, the changelings were ready to depart again, some already heading in a different direction while the group that remained with their queen made their way to Ponyville. Celestia chose to remain in Canterlot to help keep the people at ease and waved farewell when they took to the skies. Tired of the cramped carriage, Luna decided to fly along with them. 

The flight to Ponyville was a short one and they landed at the outskirts of town, where a welcoming party was created for them with a majority of the town waiting for them. Once the carriage with Chrysalis and Pinkie landed, the door was opened and Pinkie immediately leapt out, landing on Fluttershy in a loving embrace. Everyone laughed and Twilight looked at her assistant. “Alright, Pinkie tackling Fluttershy. You can mark it off the list, Spike.”	

He stroke a mark on the paper with his quill. “Got it.”

“Hi, Fluttershy! I missed you so much! Did you miss me!?”

“As much as I…miss…air,” she replied with tremendous struggle.

Pinkie released her from her death grip of a hug. “Sorry. I just got so excited when I saw you! It’s been forever since we saw each other and I was going bananas thinking about you!”

“You left yesterday morning,” reminded Spike as he tucked the scroll away.

Pinkie zoomed right in front of him and leaned over the dragon. “Do you have any idea how long that is in love time!? That’s like a million billion years!”

“We’re glad to see yall, too,” said Applejack with a smirk. “How was home for ya, Cherub? Was it worth the trip?”

Chrysalis stepped out of the carriage and stretched. “It was nice, especially with everyone in high spirits. I already miss it, but I think I’ll feel better about living here now that I have left it on my own terms.” She looked over to the side and saw Nymph and Luna approach the large crowd of ponies with the changelings following. “How is everypony doing here?”   

“Fine, but a lot of them are still totally freaked,” answered Rainbow Dash as she and the rest watched. “The mayor said we’re getting like a few hundred changelings moving in, so a lot of ponies have been feeling antsy since yesterday. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m pretty sure a lot ponies still don’t trust them.”

“It will pass with time. After all, they’ve tolerated living with Discord, so I’m sure a bunch of changelings shouldn’t be too much of a problem,” added Rarity. “Speaking of which, where is he? This seems like something he would rudely involve himself in.”

“I don’t know. He said he’d be here and say hello,” said Fluttershy as she looked around. “I told him to be nice and he said he would be sure to give them a proper greeting.”

“If he crosses the line just once, I’ll make him into a nice rug, which I will gladly set on fire,” threatened the changeling, generating a shocked reaction from Fluttershy. 

“We’ll try to keep an eye on him,” said Twilight with a bit of worry. “Anyway, you two had a long flight, so come and grab a bite. A lot of ponies helped prepare some great food.”

“Sounds great! I’ve been starving for almost the whole trip,” exclaimed Pinkie as she rubbed her stomach. 

“You don’t say,” Chrysalis replied with a smirk, eyeing the heavy bag the mare was carrying.

They headed toward the crowd and witnessed Luna and Nymph speaking with the mayor. “Don’t tell me all these changelings came to live in Ponyville! I’m sorry, your highnesses, but we don’t have nearly enough housing for this many!”

“Relax, Mayor,” spoke Luna. “Only some of them will be staying here. The rest are merely catching their breath before they continue their journey.”

“Oh, well that’s a relief. As the mayor of Ponyville, I welcome you all to our town! Come on and enjoy some refreshments made by our very own citizens!” The mayor walked over to the crowd of ponies, standing by many picnic tables with some entirely covered with various foods and balloons tied to the sides. “Okay, everypony. Here are our new neighbors. Come on and say hello!”

Several ponies and changelings slowly approached each other, nervously greeting one another. They were some talking to each other already, but the rest merely avoided eye contact or struggled to come up with something to talk about. “Do not feel so timid,” said Luna. “You will be seeing each other much more often, so you should get comfortable with one another.”

Realizing they were getting nowhere, Applejack knelt by her sister. “Why don’t ya and yar friends be polite and say hello?”

Nodding, Apple Bloom stepped forward with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo beside her. “Howdy!” she called as they waved to them. “We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders and really happy to meet ya’ll!”

“Are you living here too, Ms. Queen?” asked Sweetie Belle as she looked up at the royal changeling in awe.

Nymph shook her head. “No, I will be remaining in my kingdom. I am only here to escort my subjects.”

“Well, welcome anyway! It’s really cool to have changelings live here,” said Scootaloo.

“Oh! Oh! Could one of you turn into me?” asked Sweetie Belle. One changeling immediately took her form and the Crusaders gasped. “That’s so cool! Having changelings for friends will be the best!”	

“We even made a welcomin’ banner to make you all feel at home here! Ya’ll really like it, Ms. Queenie!” spoke Apple Bloom, beaming with joy.

“How wonderful. I would love to see it.”

The Crusaders rushed to the rolled up banner that hung between two trees and each placed a hoof on the rope. “Uh, Sweetie Belle?” asked Rarity with a hint of worry in her voice. “You didn’t mention that you and your friends were working on a banner to me.”

“Me neither,” spoke Applejack with a suspicious look.

“That’s cause we wanted to do it all by ourselves so it’d be specialer!” said Apple Bloom. “We had trouble with the spellin’, but it totally looks amazing!” They pulled it down and the banner unrolled. “Ta-da!” The three fillies wore huge smiles until many gasps were heard, causing them to look up. It was evident to everyone that they made a lot of effort in making it as seen by the paint that crossed out incorrect letters in the word “changelings” and the fresh wet paint from their corrections as well as various doodles ended up covering some of the letters when they rolled it up, leaving the only visible message “Welcome  ha g     !”

“HAG!?” roared Nymph, causing everyone to recoil. “YOU THINK I’M A HAG!?”

“Apple Bloom!” shouted Applejack. “What in tarnation is this!?”

“Oh no! Our banner got ruined!” Apple Bloom immediately glared at Scootaloo, “Ah told ya paintin’ a rainbow around the word changelin’s was a dumb idea!”

“Rainbows are awesome because Rainbow Dash is awesome!” Scootaloo countered. “It was fine until somepony decided to draw that thing riding it at the last minute!”

“Humans are pretty and I wanted the changelings to feel pretty! It was totally necessary!” argued Sweetie Belle.

The three fillies glared at each before they looked back at Queen Nymph, who remained fixed on the banner as she grinded her teeth. Apple Bloom took a cup of punch from a table and they ran in front of her. “Uh…welcome to Ponyville!” She held it up to the changeling and they grinned innocently.

Everyone waited in anxious silence as they watched the queen, who slowly turned her gaze to the ponies in front of her. Suddenly, they heard loud snickering that evolved into full blown laughter coming from Chrysalis. “This amuses you!?” asked Nymph, incredibly hostile.

“Of course it does. Such a hilarious message from an honest mistake, not to mention your reaction was absolutely priceless.” She walked up next to her and patted the queen on her back.  “There’s no need to be riled up over it. They’re only children and it’s not like they intended it. Just forget about it and relax.”

Out of the corner of Nymph’s eye, she could see everybody staring at her, causing her to sigh. “I suppose you’re right.” She looked up at the banner, smiling mischievously. “Besides, I may actually keep it and give it to my sister. It would help her feel at home where she currently resides, wouldn’t you agree?”

A lot of ponies and changelings laughed in response and Chrysalis felt incredibly embarrassed. “Hey, now,” she muttered. 

“I was merely jesting. She would definitely take offense.” Nymph glanced at her sister, who quickly stuck her tongue out. “Anyway, I deeply appreciate the effort all of you have put to welcome my people into your home. Let us feast and celebrate this day!”

Nymph and her subjects walked over to the tables and grabbed a seat while collecting plates full of food. Chrysalis walked over to Luna as the rest of their friends went to eat, two of which were giving an earful to the Crusaders. Once everyone was out of earshot, Luna spoke. “So far, so good.”

“Aside from that little incident, I have to agree.” The sight of the two species eating together caused her to smile. “I have lived a very long life and not once did I think this could be possible.”

“We’ve come a long way.”

“We have.” Chrysalis took Luna’s hoof, looking at her. “Let’s hope it lasts.”

Luna lifted the changeling’s hoof and kissed it, making them both blush. “I’m more concerned about what your future will hold.”

“I’m not that worried at all.”

“Really?”

“Really.” She waved a hoof in front of them. “I mean if something like this can happen, anything’s possible. Besides, my Lulu will protect me.”

The princess brought her wing around her and Chrysalis pressed her body against her. At the tables, many changelings and ponies were already mingling, some sharing laughs, two hoof wresting, and even some children playing tag. “It’s going to be very interesting from now on.”

“I’ll say. At least I’ll look normal compared to these new guys.”

Luna smirked. “That may be so, Discord, but they…” She immediately looked to her left and saw Discord’s smiling face right up at her own, causing her to gasp and back away. “Discord, don’t do that!”

He let out a laugh as he got onto his feet. “Don’t do what? Come and greet my new neighbors? As the town god, I feel it is my responsibility to personally get to know every sucker…I mean every person who moves here, especially since you and Celestia have worked so hard to bring them here. Speaking of which, I should go and personally meet them!”

“No, wait!”

Discord teleported right near the crowd and leaned over them with his height doubled. “Hello, new neighbors!”

Many changelings immediately screamed with many hiding under the tables and the rest too afraid to move. “By the queen’s crown, what is that bloody thing!?” cried a changeling mare.

“Fear not, fore I am merely Discord, a simple LORD OF CHAOS!” he finished with a glorious voice that echoed across the area as he flexed his muscles.

“You’re what?” asked another changeling.

Discord snapped his claw and a megaphone appeared in his paw. “I said I am Discord, the LORD OF CHOAS!” he repeated with a voice that blew against the people with incredible force with some falling over and food flying across the area. “I’m your new neighbor! Aren’t you all excited!?”

Luna flew over to his side, snatching the megaphone and hurling it into the distance. “Please excuse our troublesome friend here,” she said angrily. “Discord is a draconequus and is quite powerful with his magic, but I assure you that we have him under control.”

“Mostly,” Discord said with a smile.

“Mostly,” Luna repeated with a frown. “I promise you that he will cause you all no harm, but be warned he will most likely cause you great annoyance. It’s what he does.”

“Hey, you can’t blame me for who I am!” he shouted, clearly offended. “Wasn’t this whole changeling thing about accepting people for who they are?”

“Except they don’t do it on purpose to annoy people.” She glared at Discord and he blew a raspberry in return. “Anyway, try not to mind him so much. He does everything merely for attention. If he does cause you trouble, please report it to young Twilight Sparkle here. She will gladly send a message to Celestia or myself so that we may discipline him. Speaking of which,” said Luna as she grabbed Discord’s ear with her magic, causing him to grunt. “Excuse us.” She walked away with Discord following as the people resumed eating. “Discord, did you really have to scare them!? Most of them are already nervous!”

He stood straight up and rubbed his ear with his paw with his body returned to normal size. “You’re overreacting!” he claimed joyfully. “They’re all totally fine! Besides, how were you planning on introducing me anyway? With a song and dance?”

Luna suddenly found herself equipped with a top hat and a cane, which she disposed of magically. “Forget it. Just don’t do anything like that again. You’re on thin ice.”

The two mares were about to leave but Discord stretched himself to get in front of them. “Why are you getting all mad at me? I’ve been a good boy for a long time.” A halo popped over his head. “Besides, remember when your friend here caused that incident about two months ago?” He happily pulled on Chrysalis’s cheek. “You didn’t punish her for that, even if that moment was fantastic! Screaming and vomit everywhere! I have never seen a single pony pull of something like that before! Here, I forgot to give you this!” He snapped his fingers and a trophy spawned, which he shoved into Chrysalis’s forelegs. Both mares looked at the trophy and saw that it read “World’s Best Bringer of Chaos (Besides Discord)!” Chrysalis scowled and tossed it into the nearest garbage can.

“I don’t want your stupid trophy!”

The draconequus’s bottom half suddenly rubber banded to him and placed his hands on his hips. “Hey, I worked really hard on making that, so some appreciation would be nice! Besides, you totally deserve it! People are still talking about that incident like it was yesterday and some are feeling just as ill. It was almost as good as that time you crashed the royal wedding and people still freak out over hearing your name!” He suddenly placed his hands on his chest, tearing up. “If you were a student of mine, you’d…you’d be a star pupil!”

“I don’t care what people say! I just want you to…to…” Chrysalis’s face shifted into a fearful expression and she looked at Luna, who mirrored her reaction. “H-how!?”

“It’s quite simple.” He bent down and looked directly at her with glowing eyes. “I have special eyes. Your illusion is no match for me. Mere child’s play compared to what I can do.”

“Wait!” shouted Luna. “You mean you knew the entire time who she was!?”

He chuckled and averted his eyes. “Perhaps.”

She grabbed him by his beard and pulled his head down. “Discord, we put you on duty to keep an eye out for her!”

“And I did do that! I found her, didn’t I? I mostly kept careful watch of her and I would have done something if she acted. You just told me to look out for her and protect Twilight and her precious friends, nothing more.” Luna stared furiously at him. “Hey, don’t give me that look. After all, if I did follow your instructions the way you wanted me to, where would your pretty love bug be right now?”

The princess opened her mouth, but she slowly closed it. “I…I would not rather not guess.”

“Exactly! I am glad to see you two are still cute little love birds!” He brought his hands together and made the shape of a heart with his fingers. 

“Not at the moment,” corrected Luna. “We’ve been taking a break.”

“Such a shame. You two come up with the silliest names for each other when you get really passionate with each other.” A bunch of pink hearts flew out of the shape made with his fingers and floated toward the sky.

Chrysalis, horrified, backed away with a hoof over her open mouth. “No! Please tell me you didn’t!”

Discord chuckled deviously. “Well Equestria’s safety was on the line, so I had to keep a careful eye on Luna every time you two were together to ensure you didn’t mind control her or something and yes, I saw you two do the kissy thing in the bathtub! I had to take an ice bath afterward because it was hot!”

“DISCORD!” Ponies and changelings looked toward the princess, who grabbed Discord and dragged him even further away. “What is the matter with you!? Do you have any idea how embarrassing this is for me!?”

“More embarrassing than not knowing who your lovey-dovey special somepony was for months?” Both mares’ eyes glowed with fury and he backed away with his hands up. “Hey, don’t be mad at me! I was doing my best to ensure everything ended in the best possible way! I got bored for a while when Chrysalis got all mopey since it was so boring and the next time I saw her, she and Pinkie were pals! I still don’t know how that happened, but there’s no way you can blame me for anything.”

“I vote we imprison him in stone,” said Luna.

“I vote we kill him,” suggested Chrysalis in a much more threatening tone.

“Yeesh, no need to be so serious, Chrysie! Threaten me all you want, but I know you’re just a big ol’ softie under that tough chitin!” He closed his eyes and reopened them with his eyes resembling Chrysalis’s. “Oh Luna,” Discord said in a voice that matched the changeling’s, “be honest. Does my form frighten you? Am I…hideous?” Chrysalis exposed her fangs as she snarled loudly. “Oh, lighten up! I thought you were adorable!” He bent down and rubbed his finger under Chrysalis’s chin. “Who’s a cute changeling? You are! You-” Discord’s yelling caught the attention of everyone as he tried desperately to remove his finger from Chrysalis’s bear trap of a mouth. With some effort as well as assistance from Luna, he broke free and recoiled his hand, rubbing his sore talon. “Someone’s getting the newspaper for this!”

Chrysalis and Discord bumped heads until Luna pushed them apart. “Enough, you two! I don’t want any fighting, especially today. Please just apologize to her and stop antagonizing us.”

“Apologize? She bit me!”

Luna gave an annoyed sigh. “Just do it. I’m getting a headache.”

Discord slouched, loudly groaning. “Fine. I’m sorry for telling the truth.” Luna planted a hoof over her face. “Hey, you should be thanking me for not ratting her out. And since I have done such a wonderful job in helping her reform and you two fall in love by doing absolutely nothing, you know what that means!”

It was a moment before Chrysalis gulped. “No…”

“Yes! You both owe me big time!”

Chrysalis stared with her mouth hung open and Luna lowered her head. “I…suppose this is unfortunately true.”

The changeling shook her head. “No way! I owe this big, annoying oaf nothing!”

“Come on, Chrysie. Don’t be such a sour puss! I kept your free as a bird and look how far you gotten! You’re a reformed baddie just like me, so that makes us best friends!” 

“I’d rather die!”

“Hey, I’m not that bad. Now smile for the camera!” Chrysalis suddenly found her mouth pulled into the form of a smile as Discord pulled out a camera, snapping a picture of the both of them. A photo popped out of the device and he held it up to them, showing a picture of Discord standing next to a smiling Chrysalis without her disguise. Even with her mouth being manipulated, the changeling’s rage was seen clearly through her eyes. “We make such a cute pairing! I’d love show everyone else how adorable we are!” 

Chrysalis shoved the chaotic being away. “Discord, I swear if you even hint to anyone who I am…”

He stroked his beard with his paw deviously. “Hmm, that’s quite tempting. After all, that was such a show when those poor ponies found out your dirty little secret ingredient to those treats. I couldn’t have even dreamed of doing a better job myself!”

“I am warning you. Do not even try it!” threatened Luna. “You will be returned to your prison and dropped into the ocean if you even think about attempting that!”

“Why not? After all, I’m a good guy now, so I’d love to be helpful in having everyone love you as much as they love me.” As he grinned tauntingly to Luna and Chrysalis, he heard somepony clear their throat behind him, causing him to turn around. “Hey there, Pinkie! I was just talking to your changeling friend here and I gotta say she’s so much fun!” Pinkie suddenly lunged up and pulled him down by his beard. 

“Listen, Buster! Chrysie is my friend and nobody messes with her! If you mess with her, you mess with me! You mess with me and I’ll…I’ll…” She looked dead into Discord’s eyes with her meanest look. “I’ll tell Fluttershy on you!”

Discord gulped. “Well played.” He stood straight up. “I would love to stick around, but two unnamed sticks in the mud seem to have banned fun.” He looked at Luna as Chrysalis shook a hoof at him. “I would do something to fight this oppression, but if I did, I will never hear the end of it from you and your goody goody two shoes sister. Well then. I suppose I shall take my leave.” With a snap of his fingers, a large door appeared. Discord open the door, stepped through it, and slammed it shut, causing both of them to disappear.

Chrysalis placed a hoof on her forehead. “Thanks for that, Pinkie. He was starting to get on my nerve.”

“Starting? You actually bit him,” teased the alicorn.

“I have much more planned for him.” She rubbed the invisible object that was locked over her horn. “How about you take this thing off me and I see if I can drain him of his stupid magic? I’ll blow him up, put him back together, and then do it again.”

Luna placed a hoof on Chrysalis’s shoulder. “Nice try, Chrysalis.”

“Whatever. He’s gone now and I’m happy.”

“What were you all talking about?” asked Pinkie. “I haven’t seen Luna yell at him that much since the time Celestia tried giving that speech with her Canterlot voice after he made her lungs full of helium!”

The changeling waved a hoof. “I’ll tell you later. I just want some food and to forget I saw him.”

After taking some plates and adding on some food such as sandwiches, tofu dogs, salad, and various pastries, Chrysalis, Pinkie, and Luna sat at the table along with their friends and some of the changeling guards. “What was that about? Did you actually bite him?” asked Rarity with surprise.

“He deserved it,” Chrysalis muttered before beginning on her sandwich.

“Discord deserves a lot of things, but certainly not violence,” remarked Twilight.

“Trust me, he deserves far worse than that.” She took another bite and looked up at the unicorn, who stared at her with concern. “He’s been checking on me secretly.”

She and the rest of their friends became alarmed. “He has?”

“For months. He’s even seen me without my make-up on. Understand?” Twilight stared blankly before slowly nodding and resumed eating. 

“That is…troubling,” said Rarity. “Anyway, Nymph, I fully apologize for what my sister and her friends did. They were only trying to be nice.”

Nymph swallowed a bite of her salad. “It’s fine. No harm done.”

“I thought you were going to pop a blood vessel,” taunted Chrysalis before eating a powdered doughnut.

“Oh, hush. I suppose I did overreact just a little.”

“Everyone got really freaked,” addressed Spike. “No offense, but you kind of get mad a lot.”

“Not really. Moments of explosive rage were more of Chrysalis’s thing,” answered Hornet as he and Chrysalis stared each other down. “She has trouble controlling herself.”

The queen immediately raised a hoof. “Please, let’s not talk about her right now. I do not wish to put anyone in a bad mood.”

A female changeling guard looked up at her ruler. “Your highness, forgive me for asking, but how does Chrysalis feel about this? As in us coming to Equestria?”

“She’s actually quite happy about it and I’m sure she wishes to be here now.”

“Pfft.” Chrysalis sunk in her seat and kicked Hornet under the table and he did the same.

“My sister has seen the error of her ways and will not risk ruining this opportunity bestowed upon us. Our famine is a thing of the past and the world is ours to enjoy. I wish she could be with us now, but she must prove her loyalty to us and will you two stop kicking each other!?”

“He started it!” “She started it!” shouted both changelings at once as they pointed a hoof at their opponent.

Rubbing her temples, Nymph hung her head and gave a sigh. “Honestly, must you two act like hatchlings on this day of all days? If we were back in the palace, I would have already thrown you both out.”

“You’d think she’d know better after the first time.” Hornet suddenly felt his head pushed forward and it met with his plate of food at incredible force. 

Nymph slammed her hooves on the table and stood. “Enough! You two apologize to each other this instant!”

“Sorry…” Chrysalis and Hornet both said at once.

Nymph glared at them and each shrunk while avoiding eye contact. “Honestly, who let the children at the royal table?” she questioned when she at last sat down.

“Children? More like violent teenagers. A child would do silly things like throw food or-” Luna suddenly looked at the ground behind her, discovering a little changeling filly playing with the princess’s tail. The girl pulled on it while rubbing it on her face, giggling without end. The sight was enough to make everyone’s heart melt and forget the fighting.

“Millie, no!” Two changelings, who they assumed were the parents, rushed over and the mother picked Millie up, who tried reaching back for the princess’s hair. “What did I say? I told you not to bother the princess!” 

“B-but her hair is so pretty and I wanna see it!” cried the child as she struggled. “Please, Mom!”

The father nervously walked up to Luna. “Princess, I am terribly, terribly sorry for her bothering you. Please forgive us for our daughter’s rude behavior.”

“It’s all right,” Luna replied in a friendly manner. “I do not mind the company or her compliments.”

“We’ll just head back now and leave you alone.” They quickly bowed their heads and walked away.

“Not so fast,” said Chrysalis, causing both of them to turn around. “Why don’t you join us?”

“Oh, we couldn’t,” replied the mother. “We are not worthy to dine along with the princess or the queen.”

“Don’t be nervous,” Chrysalis encouraged. “Despite what you may believe, your queen is a very social ruler and enjoys the company of her people. I should also mention Equestria’s princesses teach about friendship, so meeting new people is something they like to do.”

The parents looked at each other and then at their daughter, who was giving her best puppy dog eyes. After some hesitation, they sat at the table. “May I see your daughter?” asked Luna.

“Of course,” spoke the mother as she held out Millie.

Luna took the child and placed her on her knee. “Hello, Millie. It is very nice to meet you.”

The changeling was already in the middle of playing with her hair. “Why is your hair so pretty?”

“It’s because I’m an alicorn with a lot of magic within me.”

“Acorn?”

Everyone briefly snickered. “Alicorn. Think of me like your queen over there for ponies.”

Millie looked at Nymph and then back at Luna. “What’s the difference between a queen and princess?”

“Queens are better,” answered Nymph smugly.

Luna rolled her eyes. “At least in your kingdom. They are merely titles that are given to those in power. For Equestria, the title of princess is of the highest authority.”

“Oh.” Millie looked at Luna’s flank. “What does your booty mark mean?”

Everyone cracked up and Luna made incredible effort to not look embarrassed. “It’s cutie mark and what you see is the moon.”

“What’s the moon?”

All of Chrysalis’s friends stopped laughing and looked at each other in confusion. “You don’t know what the moon is?” asked Fluttershy in disbelief.

“This is her first time outside,” said the father. “We lived in one of the deeper colonies back home, so we didn’t go out much.” He looked up, smiling. “It’s going to be weird to get used to seeing the sky every day, but I think we’ll get used to it.”

“So how do you like Equestria so far?” asked Twilight.

“It’s already the best. You can only stand looking at the same rock walls every day for so long. I loved home, but we couldn’t pass up something like this. Everyone else I know went to Equestria, so it seemed like a good idea.”

“So is the kingdom going to be deserted at this rate?” questioned Rainbow Dash, throwing back a swig of soda afterward. “It seems like every changeling is coming here with all the love and everything.”

“Certainly not,” answered Nymph. “You see, the majority of changelings who are so eager to come live here originally live farther underground, making it more of a chore just to go outside. People of the lower colonies have always feared disasters like earthquakes, floods, or cave-ins, so moving here was a dream come true with those fears put to rest. From what I see so far, it seems most of the lower cities will be ghost towns within several years.”

“So what will happen to the kingdom?” asked Twilight.

“Despite the flux Equestria is receiving, people will stay. With some many changelings planning to move, houses in cities connected to the surface are becoming available and we’re now building more towns outside within our territory, so people are starting to move there. Many changelings are quite satisfied with where they are now since food should no longer be an issue. Besides, the kingdom still contains valuable gems and metals for trade and it is the only place in the world where some of our fungi grow. Overall, our population will dwindle for now and then bounce back since we have essentially endless food, so the kingdom will remain strong.”

“We’ll always be your loyal subjects, your highness,” spoke the father. “Isn’t that right, Millie?” The girl happily nodded.

Pinkie suddenly sprung onto the table, startling everyone. “Oh, I forgot to ask! What are your names!?”

“I’m Rollie and this is my wife Centie,” he answered as he leaned away from her.

“That’s great!” Pinkie dashed right in front of the nearest changeling next to them. “What’s your name!?”

“Hornet. Didn’t your friends-” The pony was already bouncing in front of another changeling. “What the heck is with her?”

“Don’t mind her. She’s just eager to meet new people,” answered Rarity, amused by the scene. 

They watched Pinkie zoom from changeling to changeling, startling most of them as she introduced herself and asked for their name. It was difficult to have their eyes follow as she was determined to meet so many in so little time, gradually gaining speed. “Shouldn’t somepony tell her that only some of these changelings are going to live here?” asked Twilight, concerned.

“Only if you can keep up with her,” said Spike as his eyes moved all over the place.

“But there’s like a thousand changelings here! I know Pinkie can be a bit nutty, but there’s no way she see every single changeling here in such a short time. It’s suicide!” claimed Dash.

“Ah agree. We better stop her before she keels over.” Applejack and Dash stood up and looked around. “Now where in the heck-” A pink blur flew across the table, greatly startling everyone.

“Whoa! Was that her!?” asked Spike after he jumped into Twilight’s forelegs.

“I-I think so,” answered Fluttershy, poking her head out from under the table. Everyone at the table stood up and looked around, occasionally seeing a pink blur zip by or some changelings and ponies suddenly jumping. 

“How does she ever move this fast!?” asked Dash as she frantically tried to locate her.

“I think the question is how she ever does anything she does,” said Chrysalis while also looking around. After about several minutes of trying to find her, they heard loud panting as Pinkie dragged herself to the table. 

“Pinkie?” asked Luna. “Are you okay? You look like you need water.”

The mare slowly climbed into her seat with her tongue hanging out. “I…I did it.” She suddenly collapsed on the table. 

Nymph slowly reached her hoof to the mare’s face and poked it. She tapped on her cheek several times and did not get a response. “Is she going to be okay?” 

“I don’t know! I’ve never seen Pinkie move like that before!” spoke Twilight as she walked around the table to check on her friend.

“Everyone relax. I have an idea.” Chrysalis stood up and walked to one of the tables with food on it, returning with a tray full of cupcakes and two cans of soda. She lifted Pinkie’s head up and opened her mouth, magically shoving cupcakes down her maw. 

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” asked Spike. “I’m not a doctor or anything, but that doesn’t look right.”

“Well I wouldn’t be doing it if I thought otherwise, now would I?” Once Pinkie had consumed the last cupcake, Chrysalis opened the two cans and dumped the soda down her throat. When they were empty, she closed the mare’s mouth and lifted up above her head with her magic and shook her at extreme speed for several seconds before setting her down. “That should do it.”

“Pinkie?” asked Fluttershy as she continuously nudged her. “Are you okay?”

Pinkie remained unresponsive for several seconds until her body began quaking, making everyone slowly move away. Suddenly, she sprung up and landed in her seat, smiling. “I’m better than okay! I feel super-duper-scooper! I know everyone’s name, so I can look them up later and see when their birthday is so I can hold them the best birthday ever!” 

“That’s nice, Pinkie, but the thing is only some changelings are going to live here. The rest of them are heading to the Crystal Empire,” said Rarity.

Pinkie’s large smile lost some its width. “Oh.” They watched as her excited expression slowly faded, only for it to reappear. “Well at least I know their names in case they ever visit and they’ll be all like, ‘Hey, you’re Pinkie Pie!’ and I’ll be like, “Hey, I know you, too!’”

Everyone broke into laughter. “Don’t you ever change, Pinkie,” Chrysalis said as she gently hugged her.

Pinkie starting laughing as well. “Hey, that’s actually funny you said that because you-” Chrysalis immediately slapped a hoof over her mouth.

“Who wants pie!?”





After about an hour, the welcoming party gradually drew to a close and many ponies already began leaving and saying farewell to their newest neighbors. Nymph gathered all the changelings that were heading to the Crystal Empire or any other city on the way and stood by her friends as her subjects prepared for the last leg of their journey. “Thank you all for everything. It was a very lovely welcome.”

“I was hoping you could stay,” said Chrysalis. 	

Nymph rested a hoof on her sibling’s shoulder. “I would, but I must ensure that they arrive safely. I’ll contact you with the crystal ball as soon as I get there, but I may forget since I may be so enthralled with how the city looks. Cadance has even invited me to stay and have dinner in her glorious palace. Isn’t that wonderful?”

“Just remember Shining Armor isn’t on the menu.” 

The queen harrumphed. “I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about.”

Everyone immediately rolled their eyes at her. “I’m sure you don’t.” After seeing Nymph pout, Chrysalis gave her a hug. “See you soon.”

“Take care of yourself, Chrysie. Try not to do anything crazy like you did with Discord.”

“No promises.”

She smirked. “That’s what I thought.” She pulled away from Chrysalis and hovered about a foot off the ground, waving to them as she flew away. “Bye, everyone! See you tomorrow!”

As they waved, Chrysalis suddenly ran to up to her. “Wait, I just remembered!” Nymph landed and turned to her. “I have something I need you to deliver to Shining Armor and Cadance. Rarity, do you have it?” Rarity huffed and walked over, bringing out a small changeling doll when she was close enough.

“What’s this?” asked Nymph as she held it in her hooves.

Chrysalis rubbed the back of her head, looking slightly embarrassed. “Just a gift. I remember Shining telling me that they were thinking about having a child and I thought it would be something they would like. Please make sure they don’t throw it out or anything.”

Fluttershy looked at the gift. “Aw, he looks so cute. You did such a good job, Rarity.” The unicorn loudly muttered to herself in response. “What’s wrong? Don’t you like it?”

“I do, actually. In fact, I think it’s one of my best works. It’s just that making it was the worst part.”

“Why’s that?” asked Spike.

“If you thought Chrysalis was bad in taking charge in her wedding dress design, you would be surprised by how horrid she was in having me make this thing, screaming in my ear how every little detail needed to be perfect for almost two hours.”

Chrysalis shrugged at her. “It’s a very important gift. I needed to be the best quality possible.”

“It’s just a doll,” spoke Applejack.

“It’s not!” Chrysalis shouted in response, startling everyone. “I-I-I mean it’s more than that. It’s an apology gift and the quality I wanted to be in shows how truly remorseful I am. What would it say about me if I just let it be made in not the best quality and just shipped it off to them?”

“I suppose that is a good point,” said Luna, “but is that good reason to be shouting at one of your friends constantly?”

“Absolutely.” Rarity gritted her teeth at her. “Okay, fine. I’m sorry I crossed the line. You can use me as a model for your dresses if that will help make up for my behavior.”

“I don’t see how,” Rarity replied.

Chrysalis motioned a hoof across herself. “I’m a changeling. I can be any size you want me to be.”

Suddenly, Rarity’s face was beaming. “Oh. My. Goodness! How did I not think of this sooner!? A changeling model would be perfect! Any size! Any shape! A living model for any design! But wait. Who should I hire? Do I make enough money to hire someone? And I work at Cupid’s Arrow, so will they be part time? Twilight, could you help me sort this out later?”

“Sure, Rarity.”

“Splendid! I’ll just use Chrysalis until I find someone perfect.” She laughed to herself in an evil manner. “Maybe I should try out all those horrid corsets I keep in the attic.”

“What was that?” asked Chrysalis suspiciously.

“Nothing! Just excited, that’s all.”

“Have fun,” Dash said quietly, snickering.

“I’m sure you two will have a good time,” spoke Nymph. “And don’t worry, Chrysalis. I’ll make an absolute priority to deliver this…hmm?” She held the doll closer to her eyes, looking over every angle. Everyone watched in anticipation while Chrysalis bit the tip of her hoof as Nymph continued her examination. A moment later, she grinned widely and gasped. “Of course! How did I not see it sooner!?”

“N-Nymph,” Chrysalis said as she darted her eyes around. “I-It’s just a doll.”

The queen levitated the doll in front of her sister. “Just a doll!? How could you say that about Prince Handsome, your first love!?”

Chrysalis closed her eyes and slapped a hoof over her face. “First love? You never told me about him,” said Luna in amazement. “I didn’t even know your kingdom even had princes.”

“It’s just a doll,” Chrysalis repeated sternly.

“A doll you took everywhere as a little girl and would pretend to marry almost all the time,” reminded Nymph as she moved the prince around. 

All of Chrysalis’s friends immediately giggled. “A doll? That’s so lame,” spoke Dash, smiling. “You’re not really a tough girl like I thought.”

“I was a little girl! Almost every girl has one when they’re young! I don’t see how it’s any different for me!”

Everyone continued giggling and before Chrysalis could say more, the doll suddenly flew in front of her face. “Chrysalis, my love!” Nymph spoke in a more masculine voice. “You have grown into a fine changeling! Let us get married just like you always dreamed!”

Chrysalis could feel her face flare up as her friends rolled around on the ground in stitches. “N-no way! What was I thinking back then to love a doll!? And why did I ever name you Prince Handsome!?”

“Because I am the most handsome changeling in all the land! Look at my handsome face, my flawless wings,” she flipped him around, “and my well-toned tush!” She flipped him back. “Why don’t you give me a kiss just like back then?” Nymph brought the doll closer, imitating kissing sounds, and Chrysalis backed away.

Luna brought a hoof around Chrysalis and pulled her in for a hug. “I must say hearing all these things about you makes it so hard to believe you were such a big bad girl.”

“Who is this!?” said Nymph, bringing the doll in front of Luna. “You cannot have my Chrysie! I will fight you to the death in order to prove my love for her!” The queen made Prince Handsome raise his front hooves in a threatening manner.

Sick of the mockery, Chrysalis grabbed the doll and pointed a hoof at Nymph. “You keep this up and I’ll tell everyone about that book you wrote.”

Nymph immediately recoiled. “You wouldn’t!”

“Try me. I will read it word to word to everyone I know.”

“What book?” asked Twilight with heightened curiosity.

“There’s no book! Mind your own business! You read too much, Twilight! She’s making it up!” Nymph quickly looked behind herself. “I-I think I hear my subjects calling for me, so I must depart immediately! Goodbye!” She turned and power walked away as they waved goodbye, but Chrysalis caught up and pulled her by the tail to get her attention. “You wouldn’t really tell them about that, would you?”

The older sibling smiled in a taunting fashion. “I don’t know. I heard you already told them quite a bit about me, so I think it’s only fair I tell them things about you. Besides, maybe someone else besides Rarity might actually like reading about a changeling of royal status cursed with an uncontrollable lust that could only be sated by a changeling with, and I quote, ‘a big, meaty-’”

Nymph threw her hoof over Chrysalis’s mouth, shushing her loudly. “Chrysie, please don’t! I have done many things I am ashamed about and I really don’t want to them to know anything, especially the book!”

“Because of the content or how it sold?”

“Both!”

Smiling, Chrysalis hugged her and Nymph hugged back. “Alright. You stop telling them things and I won’t say a word.” 

“Deal!” 

“Good.” Chrysalis held out Prince Handsome. “Don’t forget to deliver it.”

Nymph took him and placed him under her cloak. “I won’t. I know this gift is important to you. And I promise I won’t tell them who he is.”

“Thank you.”

The queen looked at her subjects, sighing. “I really must be going now. I am sure they are becoming restless.”

“Very well. Have a safe journey and please call me later tonight.”

“I promise. Goodbye, Chrysie, and good luck with Luna.”

“Goodbye, Nymph.” The queen took her leave. “And leave the prince alone!” Nymph turned to her, gave her a wink, and resumed her walk as Chrysalis laughed.  Once she was near the crowd of changelings, she spoke to them and they all stood up and buzzed off the ground, taking flight with their leader in front. They eventually disappeared into the distance as everyone who remained waved goodbye.

Once they were all out of sight, Chrysalis returned to the group. “Well everything turned out to be better than expected.”

“So now what?” asked Pinkie.	

“We may as well just go home for the day,” answered Luna. “Let the changelings settle in and get comfortable. I’m sure many of them are exhausted from their journey.” She turned to Chrysalis. “What about you? What do you plan on doing?”

The changeling let out a yawn. “I may as well take a nap. I think fatigue from the traveling is starting to kick in.”

“Very well. No rush in getting to know them. I’ll come back later to check on things and we can talk about what to do next. And Twilight, be sure to keep us up to date on your progress.” The unicorn nodded. “I’m going to go home and see how Celestia is holding up, so I’ll-” 

“Hey, Luna?” Chrysalis interrupted, sounding timid.

“Oh. Yes?”

“Uh…” She looked at other ponies. “Could you give us a moment?” Her friends moved a good distance away while watching the both of them. “So Luna,” Chrysalis began as she placed a hoof on the back her own head, “I’ve been thinking for a while and…I…”

“What, Chrysalis?”

The changeling closed her eyes and gulped. “I…I would like to go on a date with you.”

Luna stared at the grass beneath them. “Chrysalis…”

“I know, I know. I shouldn’t be asking you this, but…I just miss what we had. Sure, we may gave each other a kiss now and then or flirt a little, but I miss us. What we used to be.” She moved closer and rested her hooves on both of Luna’s shoulders to get her attention. “I need to be honest with you. Every day I get this horrible thought that you will come to me and tell me that the both of us isn’t going to work out.” She stroked Luna’s check. “I promise you there will be no more surprises this time. You already trust me, so it only makes sense if we do this. I love you, Luna.”

“I…I’m not sure. I need more time.”

“Please. Just one night out. We’ll have dinner someplace nice and we can go to Cupid’s Arrow to have desert and talk.” The princess remained silent. “I’ll even throw in a nice bubble bath and a hoof massage,” she added seductively. Luna still said nothing, so Chrysalis sighed. “If you want to, I’ll let you play with Prince Handsome.”

The alicorn quickly looked up. “But I thought you gave him to Nymph.”

“Yeah…I had Rarity make a second one and I told her it was for someone else. It’s not for me to play with, it’s just nice to have a piece of home nearby. And if you say no, I will flaunt my love for him in front of you every day to make you jealous. You saw how smooth he is with words, so you better think fast before I’m taken.”

Chrysalis almost didn’t see the crack of a smile the princess produced. Luna stood and slowly paced back and forth in front of her. Chrysalis could feel the knot in her stomach become tighter with each passing second. At last, Luna looked at her and the changeling held her breath. “I’ll consider it.”

Chrysalis’s heart jumped. This was the one time Luna said anything other than “no” and she could feel joy blossoming within. “Really?”

“Really.”

“Prince Handsome really sold it, didn’t he?”

Luna chuckled. “Maybe he did. I’ll try to give you my answer as soon as possible, but remember that I haven’t said yes.”

Chrysalis took Luna’s hoof and planted a kiss on it. “Thank you, Luna.”

“Just promise me one thing, Chrysalis.”

“Anything.”

Luna repeatedly poked the changeling’s chest with her hoof. “No. More. Secrets,” she ordered in a harsh voice.

Making gestures with her hoof, Chrysalis recited, “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.”

“Good.” Suddenly, Luna slowly moved her head forward, giving Chrysalis a soft kiss on the lips. “I’ll see you soon, Chrysalis. Try not to cause any trouble while I’m gone.”

“I’m sure I’ll see you in my dreams, Lulu.” Luna blushed and took a step back, vanishing in a flash of light as Chrysalis blew her a kiss.

Satisfied, she walked to her friends with her head held high. “What were ya two talkin’ about?” asked Applejack.

“I asked her out on a date.”

They all leaned toward her. “And…what did she say?” questioned Fluttershy, completely nervous.

“She said she’ll consider it.”

They all gasped. “Yay! Everything’s back to normal!” Pinkie cheered after giving her a hug.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself. She didn’t say yes.”

“But she didn’t say no!”

“That sounds like great news, Chrysalis,” said Twilight. “I hope it works out for you both.”

“That means a lot, Twilight. Anyway, so I’ll see you all a Cupid’s Arrow next week?”

“Yep!” they all said at once.

“Fantastic. I’ll be heading home now, so I’ll see you all later.”

“Bye, everybody!” Pinkie threw on a strange outfit and bounced away, smiling. 

“I’m not even going ask what she’s up to,” said Rainbow Dash as they stared at Pinkie in confusion. “Anyway, I need to sleep on how I’m going to make friends with the changelings, so later!” She blasted off in a rainbow streak and was out of sight within seconds.

“I better go home and check to see if Discord’s around,” said Fluttershy as she looked off in the distance. “I really hope he’s not causing anyone trouble.”

“Too late,” said Chrysalis in annoyed tone. “You tell him to back off before things get messy.”

“Oh, please don’t be mad at him. He’s still learning and I’ll be extra sure he understands why he can’t tell anyone about you.”

“I appreciate that, Fluttershy. And don’t be afraid to put your hoof down, especially on his foot.” The pegasus nodded and then flew away.

“I have so much work to do with my free time,” spoke Rarity as she paced around. “I need to study changeling fashion and have new dresses on display as soon as possible! You’ll help me with the designs, won’t you, Chrysalis?”

Chrysalis rubbed her chin. “It’s been a while since I’ve kept up with changeling trends, but I’ll try to remember everything I can.”

“Excellent!” Rarity then rubbed her hooves together with her back turned to them. “Let’s see you bark orders at me with some wires crushing your chest.”

“Did you say something?” asked Spike.

The unicorn quickly whirled around. “Just thinking out loud about design ideas, Spikey,” she answered with a smile.

“I think I sense something going on with you,” spoke Chrysalis with a raised eyebrow.

“Not at all! I’m afraid I must leave right away, so I bid you all a good day.” Rarity trotted away as Spike waved to her.

“Something’s fishy with her,” spoke the changeling as she kept a watchful eye on the seamstress.

“She does look mighty suspicious,” spoke Applejack. “Ya weren’t that hard on her, were ya?”

Chrysalis gave an embarrassed laugh. “Okay, I admit I may have been just a little too hard on her.”

“No, this is completely wrong! A changeling’s horn does not bend that far! Do it again and make it perfect this time!”

“You call that stitching!? If I wanted a sloppy job done for me by someone with no skill, I would have hired your sister! At least I’d get exactly what I wanted!”

“Rarity, this is no time to have a meltdown! Don’t forget that once you’re done with this one, you have to make a second one exactly like it, so get back to work!”

“Well just be careful. Rarity absolutely does not like bein’ pushed around.” She nudged the dragon next to her. “Ya might want to sweet talk a bit before Chrysalis comes over.”

Spike saluted her. “Can do!”

Applejack looked back at the changeling. “And ya might want to work on that attitude if ya want a chance with Luna.”

“I suppose you have a point. Perhaps I could use a bit of anger management, especially with a certain draconequus around,” she hissed.

The earth pony chuckled. “Ya do that. Aight, I gotta head back on the farm and make sure Granny remembers about the changelin’s before they give her a heart attack. Later, ya’ll!”

As Applejack left, Chrysalis turned to Twilight. “Let me guess what you’re doing: you’re going to study.” Twilight immediately blushed. “Oh, Twilight. What are we ever going to do with you?”

“Actually, this is kind of important,” she spoke while ignoring the way Spike and Chrysalis were looking at her. “Princess Celestia has given me a book from Starswirl himself and wants me to finish a spell he was working on. I’m so close to completing it and there’s so many possibilities of what it could be!”

“Don’t get too excited, it could be a spell for the perfect beard or something, so don’t expect it to be completely life changing,” teased Chrysalis.

“Twilight the Bearded Mare has a nice ring to it. Maybe we could have people pay bits to see her,” joked Spike, receiving an angry look in return.

“Alright, enough fooling around. We got a lot of work to do, Spike.” She placed the dragon on her back. “Bye, Chrysalis. Good luck on that date!”

“Bye!” called Spike as the mare walked away. 

“Goodbye, you two,” Chrysalis called as she waved. When they were gone, she sighed and began her trip home, knowing it was a long one as she carried her luggage. She wished she could teleport home and save herself the effort, but even if Luna taught her how to go that far, the magic-sealing ring on her horn would have prevented her from doing so. Thinking about Luna, she prayed that she would accept her offer and they could pick up where they left off. While she waited, Chrysalis thought about how she could use the form of Luna and have fun with a mirror.

As she approached the town, Chrysalis noticed the changelings standing nearby and took a look at what they were doing. In front of them she could see some bright lights flashing and when she got closer, she discovered it was Pinkie wearing many lights and a megaphone that was held by supports around her neck. “Pinkie?”

The mare grinned and hopped over to her, pulling her away from the changelings. “Hey, Cherub! Are you going to join the tour?”

“Tour?”

“Yep! Before we went to Bugartha, I thought about all the changelings coming here and then I thought that what if they didn’t know where to go? They’d be so lost in Ponyville that they couldn’t find their own house and then they’d have to sleep outside and-” Chrysalis raised a hoof and Pinkie’s face immediately froze in place.

“Right, I get it. It’s a very noble thing you’re doing. I’m sure they all appreciate what you’re doing.” Pinkie grinned and then the changeling smiled in return before Chrysalis made her departure. Suddenly, Chrysalis turned around and returned to her friend. “You know,” she said as she pulled the pony aside, “this could be really useful to me.”

“Really? How?”

“Well I could possibly lead the tour and it would help get these changelings to recognize me. After all, who could forget a face like this?” 

“Hey, that’s a great idea! That way they’ll easily remember you so you can make friends with them later!” Pinkie suddenly frowned. “But…if you’re leading the tour…I guess I’ll just…do nothing.”

Chrysalis placed a hoof under the mare’s chin to lift head up. “Don’t be so down. How about I take this megaphone and talk about the town and occasionally myself while you lead us? I haven’t exactly seen all of Ponyville while living here, so you could help us not get lost. You can still be the leader, Pinkie.”

Pinkie smiled and rapidly nodded her head. “Yeah! Let’s do it! Go team Tour Guides!” 

“Excellent. By the way, could we make our first stop a coffee shop? I’m going to need a cup if I’m going to do this. I’ll just tell them it was built by Celestia or something.” They returned to the front of the crowd, who were mostly conversing among themselves. “Attention!” Chrysalis spoke through the megaphone, causing all of them to look at her. “The tour of Ponyville is about to begin. I am Cherub and this is Pinkie Pie and we shall be your guides today.”

“Hey, aren’t you famous for something?” a changeling stallion asked.

Chrysalis chuckled and ran a hoof through her mane. “You recognize me? I am so flattered. I’m famous for several reasons, such as my extraordinary talent and my close relationship with Princess Luna, so no doubt you may have heard of me before.”

“Now I remember! You’re that pony who sold all that changeling slime as food and caused everypony to freak out on Hearts and Hooves Day!” All of the changelings roared with laughter while some started taking pictures of her.

“IF ONE MORE BLOODY PERSON BRINGS UP THAT DAY OR ANYTHING ABOUT THE SLIME I SOLD, I WILL SHOVE THIS THING SO FAR UP THEIR FLANK THAT THEIR EVERY FART WILL BE HEARD IN AN ONE MILE RADIUS SO THEY CAN FEEL THE SHAME I FELT!” Every changeling and several nearby ponies stared in shock as well as silence while she cleared her throat. “So let’s begin our tour!” she continued in her friendliest voice. Chrysalis sat on Pinkie’s back and faced the group as the pony walked with the changelings slowly following. “So the good news is that Ponyville is excellent town to live in, so you should all be happy you have chosen to live here. It’s greener than most cities, everypony is so friendly, you even got a nice view of Canterlot, and life is simple and peaceful. Well, maybe I’m stretching the truth on that last part. We occasionally have some…incidents.”

“Incidents?” asked a mare.

Chrysalis waved a hoof around. “From time to time, something happens here. We had parasprite swarms, a unicorn take over the town, magical diseases, a few other disasters here and there, and even a dragon attack!”

They all gasped. “A dragon!?”

“Yes, but do not worry. These incidents are usually uncommon and no one gets hurt. I guarantee you’ll adjust just fine. Speaking of danger, you see that forest in the distance?” She pointed to her right and their heads turned in the direction. “That is the Everfree Forest and I am going to warn you now that it is incredibly dangerous.”

Pinkie quickly turned around. “Yeah! It’s got all sorts of scary creature like manticores, cockatrices, timber wolves, and other scary stuff with huge claws and teeth that want to eat you and-” Chrysalis placed a hoof over the mare’s mouth, looking angrily at her friend as the changelings panicked with some fainting and many children crying to their parents, begging to go home. 

“Everyone remain calm! Yes, there are dangerous creatures in there, but they only remain in the forest, so if you value your safety, stay out. As long as you stay in town, you are perfectly safe.” The changelings sighed with relief. “By the way, I should take the time to introduce my talkative friend here.” Chrysalis hopped off and lifted Pinkie into the air with her magic. “You’ve all seen her already, correct?” All of the changelings nodded. “This is Pinkie Pie and she is the best friend you can ever ask for. No matter what, this pony has the power to brighten your day and make you smile. Believe me when I say getting to know her is a great way to enjoy your life here. Why don’t you tell them about yourself?” 

Pinkie snatched the megaphone. “Hi, there! I’m Pinkie and I’m so happy to be meeting all you!” she shouted, waving her legs all over the place. “I wish I could have thrown you the super-mega welcoming party I was planning, but the mayor said some of the stuff I wanted to do was illegal! Did I mention I like throwing parties!? Parties are like the best, best, best, best thing in the whole wide world! I know all your names so later I can look up when your birthday is and throw you a party with cake, balloons, confetti, and punch!”

“Hey, it’s my birthday today!” a changeling colt called from the back.

“It is!? HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EPARYGEUS!” The megaphone screeched with her voice and everyone covered their ears. “I promise I’ll throw you an awesome party after the tour!”

Chrysalis snatched the megaphone, staring disapprovingly at Pinkie as she rubbed her ears to rid herself of the ringing. “Isn’t she something? You can find her at Sugarcube Corner whether if you want treats or to plan a party.” She climbed back on her mount and the tour resumed. “While we’re doing introductions, I think this would be a good time to tell you all about myself. How many of you noticed there was quite a bit of love lingering around upon arriving?” They raised their hooves. “That’s there because of all my hard work. You see, I am matchmaker and a very successful one at that. I help many ponies find their true love and the result is all this food you sense floating around. Feel free to feed all you want. This town is your home now and nopony is using this love anyway. I work at Cupid’s Arrow, where you can come if you want a date or just need to feed. Either way, please drop by. I’d love to get to know each and every one of you. Now let me tell you about and how to avoid property damage or physical injury from a group of children known as the Cutie Mark Crusaders!”


THE END