//------------------------------// // Unanswered Future // Story: Two-Sided Prequel II: Who You Work For // by FerociousCreation //------------------------------// Who you Work for Ch. 28 The last two days have been quite eventful for Coco Pommel. Despite yesterday and the day before were supposed to be her days to relax, the pony spent part of those two days dealing with fillies. The day after Coco and Chrysalis had their friendly talk in the ballroom, Coco was greeted by the queen, along Buggy Bite who was giggling with delight. She told Coco that Bitter Tongue was ill and she needed somechangeling to teach the children. Coco asked the queen why she brought the infant to her. Without consent, Chrysalis gave the mare the baby and said she had to be off, giving no explanation. During the first few moments of being alone with Buggy Bite, Coco began to panic. She had never babysat, let alone babysit a changeling. But as she stared into Buggy’s adorable, glassy eyes, the mare came to the assumption that watching over the child wasn’t going to be that bad. Too bad for her, she was wrong. After twenty minutes of playing and giggling with the infant, something terrifying happened. Coco went under the covers of her bed for a few seconds as she tried to play “Where’s the Baby?” The moment Coco revealed herself to Buggy Bite who was sitting on the bed in front of her was gone! Frantically, she looked all around her room. And to her horror, Coco saw the changeling flying outside above the balcony. While Buggy Bite flew in delight and laughter, worry began to course through the mare. Luckily, she was able to get a hold of the changeling before he hovered over the sharp stones that stabbed up from far below. The shenanigans didn’t end there. When the baby began to cry, he didn’t just cry. He screamed. The screaming continued for minutes that seemed like an eternity. Coco tried everything. She tried dancing, making silly faces, even threw together a cute outfit for the little tyke; but nothing worked. Thankfully, Fang came to her rescue after wondering what the commotion was all about. He knew exactly why Buggy was crying: he was craving his mother. Coco was glad her friend was a changeling as she watched him turn into Bitter Tongue. The result was instant and the child immediately halted his waterworks. Moments after Fang cradled the baby, Buggy Bite fell asleep. Coco wanted Fang to stay a while but he had other things to do, despite the fact he wanted to spend time with the mare. That gave Coco a few hours of silence to herself. She used this time to sketch out some dress and outfit designs. Coco was inspired from the garden that she visited the day before and wanted to let her ideas flow. After all, she had to keep an eye on Buggy. Chrysalis came back at noon to retrieve Buggy and glad to see him sleeping soundly. Before leaving, Chrysalis told Coco never to tell Bitter Tongue that she left Buggy with her. Coco asked why and Chrysalis told the mare that infant changelings are very difficult to manage and she didn’t want to deal with Buggy’s potentially rambunctious attitude. The queen then asked if she could possibly watch other younglings if the event came up within the next two days. Coco quickly declined. The next day Chrysalis came to Coco’s dwelling once more and asked the pony if she could come to the daycare and spend some time with the children. When she heard this, Coco was slightly hesitant in accepting this offer. She knows how young changelings can be. And remembering how Buggy Bite was behaving the other day, Coco didn’t like kids at the moment. But something in her heart told her to go and see them. After all, to Coco, they were the cutest things ever. The moment she arrived to the daycare, the mare had to partake in the now popular game among the younglings, Pummel Pommel. Despite their rough behavior with her during the changeling’s favorite pastime, Coco Pommel saw how much they cared about her as the day went on. Thankfully, Bitter Tongue was feeling better and made Coco feel glad that the teacher was well. Because Coco decided to come along and be with the children, Bitter Tongue taught the children about kindness. She used the pony for several examples of good and bad ways of being nice. Perhaps Coco favorite part of that day was when several younglings got up close to her the moment she said she was slightly cold. Their body heat quickly removed the cold problem, but it amazed her that they were so willing to aid her. Perhaps it was the lesson that compelled them or it was on their own accord. Regardless, was a cute thing to see. Before Coco left the daycare, she saw Teethling and gave her a big hug. The filly was so happy that the pony who will be feeding her daddy gave her a lot of affection. It was interesting how a simple child was motivating Coco Pommel to help the changelings even more. Coco Pommel now stirred in her sleep as she rested on her ruined, yet comfortable bed. One more day remained until the gala began. Just the fact that it was around the corner made it difficult for the pony to get some decent rest. And it was not just for the fact that she was going to finally be able to go to the Grand Galloping Gala. It was also because there was a contest being held there as well. Not only that, two of her dresses were going to be judged there as well. Today was fitting day. All of the gatherers were to be fitted into their dresses or outfits, including Fang, even though he already had his uniform on before. Coco was eager to get Chrysalis into her dress. THAT was something she couldn't wait for, which is why the pony was having a hard time sleeping. After all, she did make a dress fit for a queen. A knock came from the door. The sound was enough to make Coco's eyes open quickly. Her body, however, didn't move as fast. Moving slowly, the mare gave herself a nice long stretch and an even longer yawn before looking at the door. “Come in,” she called as loudly as she could, but her voice was very hoarse and hardly any sound came out. But it was enough to let the changeling at the door know that Coco was allowing them to access her dwelling. To no surprise, it was the Queen of Changelings. Usually the other changelings would have bowed in respect because their leader has graced them with her presence. For Coco, it was just nice to see her friend. “Good morning,” Chrysalis spoke as she came into the large room. Another yawn escaped the pony. “Good morning.” When she walked up to Coco, who still remained lying on her belly, Chrysalis said, “I have sent Sea More to retrieve the outfits that Suri hopefully has finished.” “Getting to the business early I see,” Coco remarked. “It's better to be prepared than to hope everything will already work first time around.” Coco couldn't argue that. “I just hope Suri surprises us with her designs.” “Oh I am sure she will.” “But…” Chrysalis paused. Her mouth twisted into a somewhat sinister grin. “...I do hope you are more surprised than I am.” The intimidating smile might have bothered Coco Pommel if it weren't for the queen’s statement. “What's with the smile?” the pony asked suspiciously. Chrysalis winked, “You will see my friend.” And without another word, she disappeared in a flash of green light. *** Coco Pommel munched on an oat muffin as she tried to think about what Chrysalis meant by ‘You will see my friend.’ A surprise maybe. Perhaps Coco could ask Fang. Taking in a deep breath, Coco placed her breakfast on her working table and looked at all the outfits and dresses hanging from a rolling rack. It excited the pony that she was going to the gala and was going to she the dress she made ‘fit for a queen’ finally be applied to one. But as Coco’s eyes fell upon the dress that Chrysalis was going to clothe herself in, a worrisome thought came to mind: how will Chrysalis behave if she comes in contact with Celestia? Coco knows her friend’s hatred toward the alicorn, but she does not know how Chrysalis will act around the princess. Also, Coco did ask Chrysalis to talk to Celestia about why she dislikes her. But how will that pan out? Will Celestia listen to Chrysalis if the queen does reveal her true self? Will there be peace among changelings and ponies, or will things swell up and worsen the relationship among the races? Then another thought crept into Coco’s mind and suddenly made her worry even more. What will happen once everything is over? Coco thought to herself as a frown weighed her cheeks down. It never dawned onto the mare what will become of her and her relationship with Chrysalis and the rest of the changelings until now. Will Coco be able to stay in touch with Chrysalis? Will she be able to come and visit? And what about the changelings she has befriended? The children. The tailors. Sea More. Snackrifice? Maybe Snackrifice. And what about- “Fang.” Coco couldn't hold her thoughts in. She stared off into space as his face popped into her mind. Aside from the Queen of Changelings, Fang has been the closest friend she has ever had. What will become of their relationship? That was the last question Coco could take. She stamped her hoof in frustration, hating herself for being such the questionmare. She knew why she asked so many questions; she wanted answers! But the future can never be answered until future becomes the present. And Coco hated that. Her eyes then fell upon the rose that Fang gave her the night they visited the garden. The flower rested on the corner of the table. It still had its color, but was beginning to fade and brown slightly. Coco needed to give it some water, or at least place it in some water. KNOCK KNOCK! The door rattled as somechangeling knocked on it. Its sound pounded in Coco’s head. She squinted at the sound of it, unaware of her current headache. Not wanting to call aloud to the one who is at the door, Coco walked over to it. When she opened it, the stallion she was just thinking about stood at the entrance. “Good morning,” he smiled. “How is our guest?” “Fine,” Coco replied calmly. She then moved toward the changeling and gave him a close embrace. Fang complied with the act by doing the same to her. He tasted the love that was wafting off the pony. But the flavor was somewhat different. Was it the sweetness? Perhaps a hint of bitter? Something was wrong. Fang, still holding his friend, asked, “Is everything alright?” The pony forced a smile on her face. “Yes.” Coco knew that Fang could tell she was lying as he stared at her. “Actually…” “Hmm?” Coco broke the hold she had on Fang and closed the door. Letting out a sigh, the mare spoke, “I'm just frustrated at myself for thinking about so many questions.” A smile lifted Fang’s right cheek. “Do you not like getting teased?” Coco grinned a little, “I don't mind the teasing. I'm not that sensitive.” She then gazed to the balcony window. “Perhaps I just worry about what ifs too much. Like, the future. Why do I worry about it?” Fang could see how his friend demanded an answer to her question in her eyes. “I think it's because the future's a mystery to us all. Just because you and I know that the Grand Galloping Gala is tomorrow, how the evening will play out is a mystery to us. You just have to let some things play out and adapt from the situation.” Coco chuckled and smiled at Fang. “Maybe I am worrying too much.” “If your sentences were more simple statements and had less questions you wouldn't be bothered so much.” “Oh, so you want to tease me this early in the morning?” Coco asked with a mischievous smirk. Rolling his eyes, Fang replied, “If you ask questions like that, then yes, I will.” Then, to his horror, the changeling watched as Coco Pommel she slowly approached him as her eyes looked upon him with interest. “Then you give me no choice,” the pony said as she pursed her lips. “C-Coco,” Fang stuttered nervously as his large tooth began to change color, “y-you don't have to! I- I- was kidding with you, heh. Just pulling your leg.” “You want to mess with me, so I will do it in return.” Her face was close to his. Fang wanted her to, but knew that he shouldn't. His queen wouldn't approve. As for Coco, she knew Fang was easily flustered and was beginning to get some sick satisfaction in tormenting her friend. KNOCK KNOCK! “The dresses are here,” spoke a voice from behind the door; Chrysalis’ voice. Faster than Fang could react, Coco quickly adjusted herself. Her face flushed and tried to rearrange her current emotion. Fang was unbothered by the queen’s presence. In fact, he was glad for her arrival. “Why do you look so flustered Coco?” “N-nothing!” she blurted out, her cheeks turning brighter. “Would you be embarrassed if Queen Chrysalis saw you kissing me?” Fang grinned widely. “I thought I asked the questions,” Coco huffed as her ears fell back. “Besides, I don't think Chrysalis would approve of me doing that in front of her. I'd- rather it be just you and I and no one else.” KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK! “I know you are in there Coco,” Chrysalis spoke impatiently. “I can hear your voice.” “Come on, Coco,” Fang beckoned. “What about that time you kissed me in front of the other tailors?” “That was on the cheek and that was so I could feed you some love out of kindness,” Coco hissed in a whisper. “And I was embarrassed to do so. But as I said, it was kindness to help feed my friend.” “But what about when you kissed me in the garden?” “We were alone!” “We are along now.” “Fang!” Chrysalis’ voice boomed. “Is that you in there?” “Yes I am,” he replied. “Coco here just looks a bit flustered about something.” “I- I am fine!” The pony leered at Fang. “Keep your mouth shut,” she then whispered. “Besides, won't you get in trouble if Chrysalis saw me kissing you?” The guard couldn't help but let out a chuckle. “Would you like to find out?” “Coco Pommel,” the queen spoke again, knocking once more on the door, “I'm respecting both your’s and Fang’s privacy by knocking, but I'm asserting my authority as Queen by coming in anyway!” All of a sudden, the door was struck with a hard force and fell forward with a loud thud as it hit the ground. Coco shrieked, surprised at what just happened; Fang was unaffected by the over the top action his queen had committed. Chrysalis stood over the fallen door like an animal claiming a fresh kill. “Greetings my queen,” Fang bowed. He shot a glance at Coco and noticed she was still blushing when he lifted his head back up. Chrysalis didn't acknowledge her guard’s kind gesture and looked to her friend. “You look like you have a fever.” “Th-that's right,” Coco stuttered. “I m-might not… umm-” “Don't lie,” Chrysalis interrupted. “What's wrong? I am your friend after all.” The changeling seemed eager to know how Coco was feeling. But she also looked impatient and wanted to move on to important matters. “It involves me,” Fang spoke with a wide grin. Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. “Really?” She stared at the pony. “How does your flustered attitude involve him?” Coco leered at Fang with anger for a brief moment before turning her attention back to the taller changeling. I need to think up something fast and not let Chrysalis know that I was about to kiss him. “You see…” “Yes?” “I was asking Fang… if it was possible… umm… if I could… DANCEWITHHIMATTHEGALA!” Coco blurted, almost unaware of what she just spat out. Even though she got out a lie that may be enough for Chrysalis to buy, Coco was still embarrassed. Her cheeks were hot pink and her ears hid like scared marshmallow bunnies in the brush. “Is that so?” Chrysalis asked curiously. Turning her head to Fang, she asked, “And what was your response to this?” Now the spotlight was on him and Fang’s attitude quickly changed. “Well… I don't know how you would respond.” “She asked you the question, not me.” Chrysalis looked at Coco. “Since she is here, you can accept or deny her offer. And if I were you…” She turned her eyes back at her guard. “...I wouldn't turn down a dance from her. She may be the only mare who would want to do anything with you.” Coco snickered as a laugh escaped her closed lips, making it sound like she blew a raspberry. Despite his discomfort and a potentially negative outcome that might come from his queen, Fang knew the right answer. He looked at the pony and smiled, “Coco Pommel, it would be an absolute honor to dance with you tomorrow.” Coco looked away, flustered by the turn of events that had happened in only a few moments. Chrysalis saw both her personal guard and her pony friend happy and blushing. For once the queen felt glad for two other beings. And very sad as well. “Well now!” Chrysalis expelled her voice, forcing both Fang and Coco to look at the changeling intently. “I think it is time to get business settled.” Coco nodded with a smile. “Alright. What do you need me to do?” Looking at the entrance of the door, Chrysalis used her magic to pull in two rolling racks, presenting it to the mare. “I want you to separate all the dresses from the outfits. Fang and I are going to get the other gatherers so they can get fitted.” The moment Fang heard his name, he went over to his queen and stood by her side. “Okay.” Coco then grabbed one of the racks and began rolling it toward her own dresses. “I'll see you two in a bit then.” “Let’s go Fang,” Chrysalis spoke as she looked down at her personal guard. “Yes my queen.” Leaving the room, both changelings walked down the hallways of the hive. After a moment of walking in silence, Chrysalis said, “Enjoy your dance with Coco. Because after tomorrow, you won't be able to associate with her again.” “But-” Instantly the queen stepped in his path and leered down at him. “But what?! You have something to say?” Fang slightly regretted speaking, but continued his thought. “But… what about you? Will you stop being her friend as well?” Chrysalis frowned and glanced away. “She is the only pony to give our kind a chance. Coco may have the right heart with wanting me to talk to Celestia tomorrow in hopes some good will come between her and I. But despite my hopes that I will be able to see my friend in the near future, nothing will change. I will let Coco continue her life while I think on how to get back at that princess.” “I understand my queen.” “Good.” Finished with the conversation, Chrysalis began to walk forward; but she was only able to take a few paces before Fang spoke again, “One more t-thing…” Hot air ran out of Chrysalis’ snout and snapped her neck back to face her guard. “What!?” “Will you be upset if Coco knows your act for revenge will continue once you leave?” Chrysalis thought for a moment with a calm expression. “I'm not sure. The future has not happened yet.” Not wanting the conversation to continue, the queen simply walked forward without another word. Fang instinctively walked to her side in silence. You are wrong for once my queen. Coco Pommel is our future in the present. And you will be sad as much as I if she leaves for good. Perhaps more. I believe she can change how others view changelings. Even Celestia.