VI: An Unaccompanied Suite
“Ma’am, we are here to escort you out of the palace. Would you please follow me?” a white pegasus guard said.
Chrysalis looked up, her eyes wide and distant. She was still trying to comprehend all the events that had transpired in only a few number of days. A couple days ago, she had been about to conquer Canterlot; now, she’d had her title stripped and had been forcibly changed into an earth pony. All the power she once had was now gone. She could not fly nor use magic. In her mind this was the degrading body.
Her mind had not caught up with her body. She silently got up and followed the guard automatically. As she walked, she stared at the ground, lost. Instead of the hardened black hooves she’d once had and knew, she now saw soft tan hooves. Chrysalis could only follow the hoofbeats in front of her.
“We’re here,” the guard said.
Chrysalis finally looked up, seeing that she was in a place she thought she would never see again—outside. She stood there for a moment, feeling the sun against her coat.
“Here you go, ma’am,” the guard said as he grabbed the saddlebag over his back, holding it out in front of Chrysalis.
“What is in the bag?” Chrysalis asked warily.
The guard placed the bag on the ground. “I do not know. I was ordered to escort you out of the palace and to give you that bag. Now if you will excuse me, I must get back to my post. Have a nice day.” As he finished, he turned around and closed the door behind him with a soft thud, leaving Chrysalis alone outside the palace.
Chrysalis stared at the unassuming saddlebag in front of her. After a fruitless staring contest, she finally grabbed the saddlebag and opened it. She dug out a small coin purse filled with bits. She placed it back and pulled out a stack of papers, flipping through them to see that they were her documents, as Celestia had said. There were her identification papers, birth certificate, and her apartment contract with a key.
She dropped the papers back into the bag, falling to her haunches, the steady realization of her situation finally dawning on her. Is this my life now, to be a pony? Am I supposed to associate with the things I once called food? Chrysalis thought as she stared into the sky.
“No...” Chrysalis whispered, her eyes narrowing. “I will not be beaten by you, Celestia. I will not dare associate myself with your little ponies. I will have my revenge at any cost. Canterlot and Equestria will be mine!”
Grabbing the bag roughly, she flung it over her back. I could use these later on. With a grim and determined face she made her way to Canterlot’s entrance.
“There is no way you can keep me locked up in your precious city, Celestia. I will escape,” Chrysalis whispered to herself as she made her way to the main gate. There was nothing out of the ordinary, just the standard two guards with blank faces. This will be easy, Chrysalis thought. Puffing out her chest and lifting her head, she made her way to the gate.
“Stop right there, ma’am,” one of the guards said.
Chrysalis stopped, her path now blocked by two brown unicorn guards. “What is the meaning of this? Get out of my way this instant!” she snapped.
“I am afraid we are not allowed to do that, ma’am. We have orders to keep you within the borders of the city. You are not permitted to leave,” the other guard replied.
Chrysalis took a step forward. “I demand that you let me out immediately!” she yelled.
Other ponies around began to turn their heads to view an angry tan mare shouting at guards.
The guards in turn stepped forward, standing right in front of Chrysalis and looking down at her. From the perspective of her new pony body, they looked much more intimidating. “If you are unhappy with your current situation, we will be more than happy to give you new accommodations in the dungeons,” one of the guards said sternly.
Chrysalis’ ears flattened as the two guards stared her down. She could hear the snickers of the ponies in the background. Her cheeks began to turn a light shade of red. With a loud “humph,” she turned around, raising her head. “You cannot keep me here forever!”
As she walked away her poise began to falter. She stomped at the ground in frustration, her mane flying wildly in her face. Fine, Celestia! I will play your game for now, but I will win. You will not break me, Chrysalis thought, her nostrils flaring. Finding a corner to sit down, she again opened her saddlebag. She grabbed and opened the coin purse, and her shoulders slumped at the sight she saw. There were barely enough bits to last the week, and that was if she used them sparingly. Celestia was not kidding—she would have to get a job, fast. She shuddered at the thought.
Chrysalis walked all around Canterlot, looking for a “Help Wanted” sign. She eventually made her way to the upper terrace of the city. While walking, she spotted what she was looking for. There was a “Help Wanted” sign on some fancy-looking restaurant called “The Garden.” Putting on her best mask and a fake smile, she strolled in. She was confident; she was a great actress, after all.
An hour later, Chrysalis strode out of the restaurant. She had expected much more of challenge, but this had just been too easy for her. She had played the restaurant’s management like fools. With a fake smile and a flick of her eyelashes, she’d had them dancing in her hooves. Chrysalis could not lie; it felt amazing to feel as though she had power again. Knowing that she could still easily manipulate ponies in this form was a huge relief to her.
Chrysalis made her way through Canterlot, looking down at the paper that had her apartment’s address on it. Finally able to locate it, she made her way to, as she called it, her temporary home. After struggling a little bit with the key, not used to having to use her mouth or hooves, she finally made it in. She sighed with relief looking at her apartment. It seemed plain, but at least it was clean. Looking around, she found a bed, a nightstand, a cabinet, and a full-body mirror. Chrysalis was afraid that Celestia would make her stay in an awful, dirty, and downright nasty apartment as revenge. Walking over to the mirror, she gave herself a good look. She saw a light tan–colored coat and silvery white mane. Her cutie mark was two masks, one frowning and the other smiling. She turned her head in disgust. How dare she put me in a lower life form’s body? This body is weak and soft, not fit for a queen. She took another look, blowing her mane out of her eyes. At least my eyes are the same color, proof of my former self.
Walking to the window, she looked down at the street below, watching ponies stroll around. “I will beat you, Celestia. I will not frolic with your ponies. You may have won this battle, but I will win our war,” Chrysalis said harshly.
However, before she could win her war, she had to go to work tomorrow morning.
Chrysalis stood there, fidgeting with her uniform. She had never been used to wearing clothes; it also felt too constricting for her. In addition she hated that she had to follow orders. She was a queen—she gave the orders. But for now she had to play Celestia’s little game. She sighed, balancing the tray of food that was on her back. Chrysalis was told that she had to give food to a “very special customer,” some pony named Blueblood or something. She had not been paying attention.
Walking over to the designated table, she found the pony she had to serve. He was a large white unicorn stallion with blue eyes and a strange, compass-looking thing as a cutie mark. Again putting on her mask and a fake smile, she walked near him.
“Well, it is about time! Do you know how long I had to wait for my food? Such service. How hard is it to give me my food on time? You lowly peasant, do you know who I am? Now hurry up, wench, and give me my food,” Blueblood said haughtily.
Chrysalis' eye twitched. She gritted her teeth. The burning anger deep inside started to flare up, ready to be released as a raging inferno. Her breaths became more shallow, her body quivering with rage. How dare he insult me! I am Chrysalis, the queen of the changelings!
“Are you deaf or just stupid? Did you not hear me?” Blueblood said impatiently, turning up his nose.
Chrysalis at this point was shaking with rage. Grabbing the tray of food, she slammed it into Blueblood’s face as hard as she could. CLANG! Blueblood fell over, shrieking while holding his nose.
“H—how dare you! Do you know who I am?” Blueblood asked feebly, trying to sound tough. Before he could get up, Chrysalis was standing over him, her green eyes burning with rage. The entire restaurant fell quiet.
“You ungrateful insect! I do not care who you are because to me you are nothing more than a lowly worm that deserves to be crushed underhoof!” Chrysalis yelled back.
Blueblood shrank back with every word, cowering as the angry mare stood over him. “B—but,” he whimpered, unable to finish when Chrysalis jammed her hoof into his mouth.
“Silence, you worthless bastard!” Chrysalis roared. “How dare you insult me. You are nothing but an ant compared to me!” Yes, cower before me, you little insect. Fear me. She felt powerful, watching her helpless victim tremble before her. Chrysalis knew she was going to enjoy every second of this, the perfect way to vent the rage that had been building inside her over the past couple of days. “I will enjoy slowly draining your life away. I will savor every moment as you beg for your worthless, pitiful life, you ignorant ass,” Chrysalis said venomously. She placed her other hoof on his chest, holding him there.
Blueblood was on the verge of crying. He tried to get away, but she held him there.
“Now beg for your worthless life, you miserable—” Chrysalis could not finish her sentence as two guards came and grabbed her off her victim. She struggled in their grasp, angry that she was denied her prey. “You bastards! Get your hooves off me at once. I am not finished with that worthless pile of flesh over there. Let me go this instant, you fools!” Chrysalis yelled, struggling against the two guards to no avail. As she was dragged out of the restaurant, the crowd stared, their mouths agape.
However, there was a stallion in the corner with a blue mane and moustache, sitting with a pink-maned white mare, quietly chuckling to himself. “Oh my, that shut ol’ Blueblood up, didn’t it? Boy, did she give him what he deserved. Jolly good, miss, jolly good,” he quietly said.
Chrysalis was dragged out of the restaurant and unceremoniously dropped on the ground, the doors slamming behind her.
“Bastards!” Chrysalis shouted. How dare they take me away from my rightful prey! Ripping off her uniform, she stomped off angrily. She’d only had her job for one hour, and she’d already been fired. Still, it was nice that she got to vent her anger out on that stallion. She had greatly enjoyed watching him squirm.
She sighed. She was going to have to find another source of income.
A loud growl from her stomach interrupted her thoughts. Clutching her stomach, she remembered she had not yet eaten anything at all. She shakily stood and set off for a place to eat. After her first step, her malnourished limbs betrayed her and she stumbled, hitting the ground hard. She had not eaten any food since her punishment, and even then she had been starving as a changeling. Panting hard as she got back up, she slowly started walking with her head hanging low. Today will be a long day.
Chrysalis sighed as she sat down at an outside table. It was only noon, and she was already exhausted. After a long walk, she managed to find a small old-looking bakery called “Bread & Butter Bakery.” She rested her head against the table, her eyelids already falling due to the day’s events.. A nap sounded like a great idea.
“Why hello there, miss,” a cheery voice said. Chrysalis looked up, irked that someone would disturb her attempted nap, to find an older-looking mare gazing down at her with a smile on her face. “My name is Rye Bread. What can I get for you today, hon?”
Chrysalis remembered that she was at a restaurant. She stared at the menu in front of her. Everything on it looked foreign to her. Chrysalis had never needed to eat food for nourishment, and she had rarely eaten when she was in disguise. She had no idea what was good or how it would taste. She sighed and put down the menu.
“Just give me the cheapest sandwich you have.”
The waitress smiled. “Sure thing, miss. One peanut butter and jelly sandwich will be coming right up.” She paused, a worried look crossing her features. “Is everything all right? Is money an issue? If so, we will gladly give you a discount on your meal. You look exhausted.”
“I do not need your pity or your help!” Chrysalis snapped, giving the waitress a hard glare.
The waiter nodded sympathetically. “Sorry, miss, I did not mean to offend you. I will bring your food out shortly,” the waiter replied gently as she turned around and walked back toward the bakery.
Chrysalis glowered as the waitress left. After she was gone, Chrysalis put her head back on the table, sighing. “I hate you, Celestia,” she whispered.
The waitress re-entered the bakery with a frown on her face. “Sourdough,” she called out.
An older-looking stallion, roughly the same age as the waitress, turned from behind the counter. “Yes, honey?” he answered, a kind smile on his face.
“Dear, there is a poor mare outside who looks weak and exhausted. She acted very proud and stubborn, but I could tell when I looked into her eyes. I offered her a free meal, but she instantly shot it down. We cannot just leave her out there without doing anything. Do you think you could make her order much larger than normal?” Rye said.
The older stallion’s face softened. “Of course, dear. Who would we be if we did not give a helping hoof to those who need it?” Sourdough answered.
Chrysalis on the other hoof was in and out of consciousness. She wanted to sleep but couldn’t, and she was starving. For the first time in her life, she felt her stomach grumbling, and she hated it. She felt weak, both physically and mentally. Chrysalis was miserable, and although she would never admit it even to herself, she was starting to sink into depression.
Chrysalis’ mind wandered. She wanted to continue fighting, to beat Celestia and Equestria. Ever since she was born, she’d had to fight and struggle just to survive, and she was getting tired of it. Her mother had used the last bit of her energy giving birth to her. She had been alone from the very beginning, trying to carve out a measly existence for herself and her changelings. Chrysalis carried a heavy burden on her shoulders, and the weight was finally starting to bring her down.
She had tried to do everything for her changelings by giving them energy or trying to make them self-aware. Although she had made some progress on the latter by making them feel some emotion, she had ultimately failed. She could not get her changelings to become individuals. To them, there was only “us” and her. Always obedient and never questioning, they could never think for themselves. In the end, they were just beasts. She’d had to plan all of the movements, all of their actions. She did miss them greatly, but she was not completely lost without them; she’d never had any real relationships with them, anyway.
At that moment, though, she wished she could be with them, to have died with them in their final battle. Most of the changelings had been crushed between a wall and Shining Armor’s barrier, dying instantly. After the failed invasion, she’d only had roughly three score left. None of them, including herself, were in any shape to fight. After she had learned of the impending Equestrian Army, she could feel the changelings’ fear; it was like that of a cornered and wounded beast. Equestria had offered her an ultimatum—they could surrender and be guaranteed safety, or they could fight. And surrendering had never been an option for her.
Chrysalis rallied her changelings, and they defended their nest valiantly. In the end, however, they were simply overpowered. Her changelings had followed their orders—they had given their lives to their queen without any second thought. She remembered being surrounded by the Equestrians. She had held her ground and was willing to die that day. However the Equestrians had planned differently; they had captured her alive.
At that moment, Chrysalis wondered if she should just end her life. It would be quick and easy for her to just give up everything. It would finally remove the heavy burden she had carried for so long. The idea of having no more responsibilities seemed extremely enticing.
No! Chrysalis thought as she lifted her head off the table. I cannot give in. I will have my revenge. I will escape this blasted city, and I will raise an army. Next time I will crush Celestia with my hooves. I will find a way to change back. I have to remain strong.
“Here you go, hon,” Rye Bread said as she placed her order in front of her. “If you need anything, please feel free to ask me.” With a quick smile, she trotted off to help another customer.
Chrysalis stared at her sandwich. It was much larger than she had thought. Jelly and peanut butter were oozing out of the sides. She looked at it with utter disgust. This looks awful! Just look how messy it is. Her stomach growled. She had no choice; she had to eat it. Awkwardly picking it up with her hooves, she closed her eyes and hesitantly took a small bite.
Her eyes widened and her ears perked. It was delicious. She chewed it slowly just so she could savor every bite. Before her punishment, she could taste food to some degree, but now that she was a regular pony and starving she was experiencing the full flavor. She could taste the ingredients, the sweetness of the jelly and the savoriness of the peanut butter, and she could feel the texture of the bread. Chrysalis let out a quiet moan as she finished her first bite. Drooling a little as she anticipated the next bite, she slowly brought her meal closer to her muzzle as she closed her eyes.
SPLAT!
Chrysalis opened her eyes. Her one small joy was now covered in mortar. She dropped the ruined sandwich, her fury quickly rising as she gritted her teeth.
“Wooh, terribly sorry down there!” a voice called out from above. Looking up, Chrysalis saw a pony in a bosun’s chair slowly lowering himself down. When he finally made it to the ground, Chrysalis was able to get a good look at the pony responsible for ruining the one good thing she’d had in a long time. He was an earth pony with a gray coat, a brown mane, and brown eyes. She was able to see his cutie mark, a hammer and chisel.
“Sorry there. I guess I dropped some mortar. I didn’t hurt you, did I?” the pony said.
“You insolent fool!” Chrysalis shouted as she slammed her hooves on the ground. “You ruined my meal!” Grabbing her plate, she readied herself to throw her second dish into the pony’s face.
“You are right, ma’am,” the pony said, kneeling in front of her with his head low to the ground. “I was a fool to have made such a stupid mistake. Please accept my humblest apologies.”
Chrysalis was stunned, dropping her plate. Here was a pony kneeling in front of her as though she was a queen again. She had no idea what to do; she had originally planned on unleashing her anger on this pony.
“Please, ma’am, let me pay for your meal and order you a new one,” he replied as he got up.
“I do not need your help!” Chrysalis snapped.
“Please, I insist. Think of it not as help but as repayment for my actions. I have made a mistake and I wish to correct it. Please, I owe you,” he said.
Chrysalis thought for a moment. She had not expected anypony to treat her like this. He is right, she pondered. He does owe me. “Fine,” she declared, turning her head away.
“Thank you. I am sorry, I did not catch your name. I am Mortar Brick,” he said.
“Chr—” Chrysalis stopped.
“I am sorry, I couldn't quite make that out. What was it?” Mortar asked.
Chrysalis eyed his plain face and brown eyes. Her mind raced. She could not use her real name, as that would raise suspicion. She tried to think of a name, but only one came to mind. Chrysalis did not want to use that name; it was a disgrace to her. But time was running out as Mortar looked at her with anticipation.
As much as it pained her, she had to use it. “It is Silver Skip,” Chrysalis answered, struggling to say the words. She felt sick saying it.
“What a lovely name. Well, Silver, since I ruined your meal, let me repay you. Order whatever you want and as much as you want,” Mortar said cheerfully.
“Fine then,” Chrysalis replied, sitting back down. She was still tired and hungry, at that moment wanting nothing more than the same sandwich. “I want another sandwich, the same one I had,” Chrysalis demanded.
“Very well then, m’lady!” Mortar said enthusiastically. “Rye, can you bring another sandwich for this mare here? I ruined her previous one.” He turned to Chrysalis. “Do not fret; I will pay for it.”
The older waitress came out of the shop, waving a hoof. “Of course, Mortar. I will bring it right away.”
Smiling, Mortar took a seat across from Chrysalis. Her ear flicked in annoyance, but she could not just tell him to leave if he was paying for the food. “So,” Mortar said while smiling at Chrysalis. “What brings an earth pony here to Canterlot? Last time I checked this city is heavily populated by unicorns. Not that often I see another earth pony, especially if they are not of the elite.”
Chrysalis looked at him warily. “How do you know that I am not an elite? What if I am one?” Chrysalis said a little harshly. I am elite. I am ROYALTY, damn it!
“Woah now, no need to get defensive. I figured that for a couple reasons. First, the upper-class ponies always wear some article of clothing. Second, an upper-class pony wouldn't be caught dead at this commoners’ establishment. They would have to go to some classy and overpriced place. And lastly, you just seem different somehow—I can’t put my hoof on it.” Mortar answered, saying every word with care to make sure he did not offend the mare.
“I am taking a temporary residence here,” Chrysalis replied crossly. “If earth ponies are so rare here, then why are you here?”
Mortar smiled. “I am a stone mason, as you can tell by your previous sandwich. I live and work here, just like my family before me. My ancestors built and maintained Canterlot, and I plan on doing the same. I am currently trying to fix the Breads’ bakery. Their building was damaged during the changelings’ attack. One of them lil’ buggers blew right through the wall.”
Chrysalis turned her head away, avoiding eye contact. She did not want it to be known that she was responsible for all the damage.
“I feel bad about it, you know. There was a lot of damage done,” Mortar said.
“But don’t you profit off that? I mean, with all the damage you should have a lot of work,” Chrysalis asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Well yeah, but still. A lot of good ponies got their property damaged. Yeah, the work is good, and it is giving me a lot of bits, but still. They suffer, yet I profit; it does not feel right,” Mortar replied solemnly.
Chrysalis stared at him. Why should he feel bad? Because of me, he is doing well! Why should he care about his customers?
Mortar sighed, resting his head on his hoof and bringing his other on the table.
Chrysalis noticed numerous scars on his forehooves. “How did you get those?” she asked, pointing a hoof.
Mortar snapped to attention, glad that the subject was changed. “Well, I am a stone mason; I work with my hooves,” Mortar replied as he beamed with pride. “That and I am a tad clumsy at times. Accidents happen.”
Chrysalis was going to push the issue further but stopped when Rye placed the sandwich before her. Grabbing it, she voraciously devoured it, not caring how she looked or about the mess she made. Mortar stared at the tan mare in shock and amazement. He opened his mouth to say something but closed it when Chrysalis finished eating and stared at him.
“More,” Chrysalis demanded.
Obeying, Mortar ordered another one. When the second sandwich came out, she attacked it like the first. This pattern continued, the plates next to her stacking and making a tower. After her fifth sandwich she finally stopped, putting her head on the table to rest with a satisfied smile. Mortar looked at her with concern.
“Silver,” Mortar said quietly.
“What?” Chrysalis asked harshly, not bothering to lift her head off the table.
“Is everything all right?” Mortar asked.
“Yes,” she lied.
“You are lying.”
Chrysalis lifted her head from the table, staring daggers at Mortar. “I am fine. Now go pay for my meal and leave me alone,” she demanded.
“I am not going to pay for it unless you tell me what is wrong,” he replied.
“I told you, I am fine! Why can’t you understand that?” Chrysalis said, annoyance in her voice. She squinted at him.
“Yeah, no pony, or anything for that matter, eats like that unless they are starving. I know something is wrong, so unless you want to pay for that nice stack of food you just devoured...” His facial expression hardened.
Chrysalis glared at him, “I am low on bits,” she answered softly, looking away.
“Do you not have a job?” Mortar asked, concerned.
“I got fired,” she said flatly, remembering the insolent fool she had attacked.
“Well, if you need a job, I know where you can get one,” he said.
“I do not need your pity or your help,” Chrysalis replied quickly.
“I am not pitying you—everypony could use help once in a while. Look, I know the owners of this bakery, and I know that they are short on staff. The only ponies who run the shop are Sourdough and his wife Rye. When it gets busy, they are overworked. They could really use a waiter,” Mortar said.
“I do not want to be a waiter. I do not want to deal with those insolent customers,”
Chrysalis said stubbornly.
“Yeah, that is true. You meet jerks no matter what job you have. Sadly, it is a part of life. But that does not mean you can’t take advantage of them. A good waitress could easily play with some customers,” Mortar said slyly.
Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. She liked the idea of toying with ponies. That was what she was used to. “And how would I do that?” Chrysalis asked, taking the bait.
“Well, a good waitress can charm her customers, making them give up bigger tips. It would be easy to control the younger colts, if you catch my drift. A bat of the eyelashes or a simple wink can have them eating out of your hooves.”
Chrysalis smiled mischievously at the idea.
Mortar smiled back, knowing his plan worked. He wanted to help this mare because he could just tell that she was going through a lot. It was very hard for ponies not to have a job in Equestria. He figured something must be going on. He could also tell from the way she carried herself that she was a very proud pony who probably would never accept help outright. He had to sweeten his words to point her in the right direction.
“Now, of course you are going to have to deal with the inevitable jerk. Just go along with their ego so they leave faster. Do not think of this as help—think of it as an offer.”
Chrysalis mulled the idea over. She needed bits, and she needed a job. The prospect of using her charms and wits to manipulate pleased her. She did not want help from anypony. However, as Mortar said, it was an “offer.” Technically, he is not helping me if he is offering something.
“Fine, I will accept your offer,” she said after a long pause.
“Great!” Mortar exclaimed. “Now I am curious. What was your previous job?”
“I was a waiter at The Garden.”
“Really? How in Equestria did you get a job there? That place is so selective with both its customers and its workers. They do not let just anypony walk in there for a job,” Mortar said, shocked.
Chrysalis just looked at him with a confused look. “That is exactly what I did,” she remarked.
“Wow! Then you must have really won them over or something. You must be an expert to do that. But if you got accepted, how did you get fired?” Mortar asked.
“I slammed a platter of food into somepony’s face. I think his name was Blueblood,” Chrysalis said nonchalantly.
Mortar’s eyes widened and his jaw dropped “You assaulted Prince Blueblood? Princess Celestia’s distant nephew?”
“Wait, what? You mean that bastard is related to Celestia?” Chrysalis began to panic. It had only been a day, and she had already attacked a relative of Celestia. She did not want to be dragged off by the guard and thrown in a dark cell. Chrysalis started to hyperventilate, trying to think of a way to escape.
Mortar however fell on the ground bursting into laughter, clutching his sides.
“This is not funny! I am in a dire situation right now,” Chrysalis shouted.
Mortar finally caught his breath. “I cannot believe you did that! You have no idea just how badly I wanted to see that. I would pay so much to see that jerk get what he deserves. You do not need to worry—you should be fine.”
“What do you mean?”
“This is not the first time a pony has attacked Blueblood. Celestia knows he is an ass, so I do not think she would care. As long as you did not cause any permanent injury, you should be fine,” Mortar explained.
“But can’t he just imprison me?” Chrysalis asked worriedly.
“If the guards actually imprisoned all the ponies Blueblood wants to lock up, there would be no pony left in Equestria. He may have the title of a prince, but he pretty much has little power. The only thing he can do is make the nobility suck up to him. With the way he acts, Celestia would not allow him to have any power,” Mortar said.
Chrysalis began to calm down. “So I should be fine?” she asked.
“Yep! Now let us go meet with Rye and Sourdough. I bet they would be pleased to know that they could have an extra set of hooves. Don’t worry—they are a really nice couple,” Mortar replied as he led Chrysalis into the bakery.
Celestia examined the report in front of her. She was a little upset to find out that Chrysalis had attacked another pony. However, given Chrysalis’ current situation and the fact it was Blueblood, it was not surprising. Celestia was surprised, however, that Chrysalis did manage to get a job so quickly—and at such a fancy place, no less. Celestia knew that Blueblood was extremely hard to be around, and she bet that he had insulted Chrysalis. Chrysalis’ pride would probably not stand for that. Still, she could not just beat up every pony who upset her.
Celestia tapped a hoof on her chin, thinking. She would let the incident slide just this once. Blueblood could use a lesson in humility.
“Begone this instant! I must speak to the Princess; I have dire news of a threat against Equestria!” a pony outside shouted.
“No,” one of the guards replied. “The Princess is not taking any visitors right now.”
“Guards, who is out there right now?” Celestia asked. She did not have to ask, though; it was obvious who it was.
“It is Prince Blueblood, Your Highness,” the other guard answered.
Celestia sighed. “Let him in,” she finally said.
“I told you this was a dire emergency! Hmph,” Blueblood said as he opened the door.
It took all of Celestia’s experience of being a ruler to not burst out laughing. Blueblood came in with his nose and chin held high, arrogant as ever. His nose was completely swollen, and he had a black eye. It was a hilarious sight indeed.
Resisting the urge to laugh, Celestia put on a regal countenance. “Prince Blueblood, I am busy at the moment. What is the matter that requires my urgent attention?” she said calmly.
“Princess, there is a threat to Equestria. Just earlier I was attacked!” Blueblood explained dramatically. “Just look at my face!”
“And who, pray tell, attacked you, Blueblood?” Celestia asked, her tone not changing.
“Some waitress attacked me when I was at a restaurant! I demand that she be thrown in prison for life!” Blueblood said.
“And why would some waitress attack you?”
“I do not know! She just attacked me out of the blue,” Blueblood snorted.
“You did not call her anything now, did you?” Celestia asked, raising an eyebrow.
“I called her what she was, a lowly peasant who was late delivering my food. I did nothing wrong,” Blueblood said.
Celestia’s faced hardened, and she gave Blueblood a stern look. “Blueblood, how many times have I told you that there is no difference between you or any other pony? You cannot treat ponies like that, ever,” she said harshly.
Blueblood wilted at the hard words, backing up a little and stammering. “B—but she—”
“No buts, Blueblood. I am very tired of telling you this. You are not more important. You treat ponies the way you want to be treated. You insulted that mare, so she insulted and hit you. If you want to be treated with respect, then you must respect others, regardless of where they come from,” Celestia continued as she got up, looking down at Blueblood.
Blueblood shrank under her gaze. “P—Princess, she...” he mumbled.
“Enough, Blueblood! This is the last time I will give you this lesson. If I hear that you do this again, there will be consequences. Now leave at once, ”Celestia stated, stamping her hoof for emphasis. Blueblood scurried out of the room, his tail between his legs.
Closing the door, Celestia sighed. She really did not like being the strict, harsh teacher, but she had given Blueblood too many chances already. She hoped that this would be the last time she heard something like this. Celestia was tired of all the complaints against Blueblood. She did care for him, but that did not mean she would not be strict with him.
Lying back down, she got back to her paperwork. She let out a light chuckle. “I am impressed. For a small mare like her, she throws a mean hoof.”
Stats
Page generated in 0.074 seconds
Total duration
1,080 users online
1,593,550 hits today, 2,004,447 yesterday
FIMFiction
My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Fanfiction
Designed and coded by knighty & Xaquseg - © 2011-2024
Follow & Support Us
Support us
SubStar
Chat!
Discord
Follow us
Twitter
MLP: Friendship is Magic® - © 2024 Hasbro Inc.®
Fimfiction is in no way affiliated with or endorsed by Hasbro Inc.®
To the Baroque period! The complex melodies and the ornamentation! For this chapter I used Bach's Unaccompanied Cello Suite No.1. One of the most famous songs ever and everyone by now should have heard the prelude. I thought it was fitting since it is a solo, and poor Chrysalis is not having a great time.
And since so many people wondered, I have finally added what happened to the changelings in this chapter. After much thought I felt that mentioning it would make the story better and make more sense.
Also this is a long chapter (for me). How other people can write more is beyond me XD.
Please feel free to leave your opinions, I enjoy reading and replying to them!
the only thing I find off about your story is the way you portray Celestia and Luna.
892959
Hmm interesting point, how so if I may ask?
Hmm so she is the last remaining Changeling. I guess this is going to be a "Chrysalis sees the value in ponies" fic?
To me even if the show portrays them as good and evil, both sides are not black and white. While evil to the ponies, it's a necessity to the changelings to feed in love. Would Celestia really had allowed that? Would she had changed all of them into ponies? I already mentioned this in a previous chapter.
After all, even though Chrysalis attacked first, because she needed to feed the changelings, the equestrians might have extinguished their entire species. Hell, of striped her of magic and wings, so pretty much chopped 2 limbs of her, and have her under threats. Personally I would have allowed her to die in dignity than force her to accept my point of view.
Forcing her to see the good in ponies seems, I dunno, a little bland. After all ponies can be assholes too, so they are not that good. And one of their goddesses tried to commit genocide in a temper tantrum...
Still, I have hope for this.
893056
Yes good point! I never said the changelings now were "evil". But I look at this situation at more realistic point of view. Regardless of whether or not the changelings actions were justified, you have to look at it with Celestia's eyes. Here, there is a being out there, who in their very nature is a threat to your subjects. Regardless of their motives, they are a danger to her subjects. Celestia did offer them a chance at surrendering. If Chrysalis asked for her help before the invasion, or even after, Celestia would have given it.
Does that mean she would turn them into ponies? Only Celestia knows at that point. She might of or might not. They could have worked out something. I mean they do have magic. So even after the invasion, Celestia offered them a chance at peace, in which Chrysalis refused. So to me, Celestia had no choice in the matter. Chrysalis made it known that she will not accept peace or help. So Celestia could just not let them gather their strength and repeat their actions. I mean they were really close to capturing the city. So if they chose to fight she would make sure the threat was eliminated.
Now did Celestia want or enjoy it, no she did not. She really does not like killing things imo, hence the Discord Statue. And Chrysalis was the only one out of the bunch who was actually sentient. Even Chrysalis saw them as nothing more than beast. Or well that is how I set it up anyways.
And so the point of this story, well you just have to wait (or if you REALLY want to know send me a PM and I can tell you what I have planned). I am trying NOT to make this the standard Chrysalis story as I said. I mean look at what she went through.
I do hope that helps, and I really do like your thoughts and input.
Also your avatar makes me smile every time I see it XD.
I am starting to enjoy this a great deal. Though with Chrysalis, I think she could use Mason as a way of trying to escape the city since he knows the ins and outs of the many structures around Canterlot. Trying to convince him to show her out while maintaining a disguise\persona to adapt to him would be difficult I think. I'm hoping she actually makes it out.
Well that just made my night all the more joyous -snickers- I love seeing that stuck up little windbag get what's coming to him. Wonderful little story and I can't wait to see more as it is always fun to read about how our little Queenie is doing -I enjoy calling her that, though if she could hear me I would be gutted right now XD-
893334
Yes I do have a soft spot for Chrysalis. Remember I could always use the likes! (insert shameless pandering)
So... In 50 years a painting on the wall would be all that's left of the changeling race.
Other then the Blublood hate, though I can see why he was chosen, this was a good chapter.
Though it depresses me that I have to agree with the above user about the condition of the Changeling species.
>Chrysalis compares changelings to beasts
>Immediately thinks of Overlord
893033
I just don't think Changing Chrysalis like that is something they would do. maybe Luna, if Celestia wasn't there. But Celestia doesn't seem the type to strip anything, pony or not, of who they are. If she was, don't you think she would have done it to Blueblood already? Celestia isn't that cruel.
I hope, she is gonna fall in love and in the end thank Celestia for Ponyfie her
893689
Not in 50 years, they are gone now. Tis is a sad fate indeed. But given her situation it was required for her.
894977
As mentioned above, there is nothing left. Celestia removed the dark magic from her. The only way changelings can come back if Chrysalis or someother pony does the same ritual the first changeling did.
895805
Never played it, is it good?
896034
You bring an excellent point. However since Celestia and Luna pretty much have 0 screen time in the show, we really do not know their exact personalities. We can guess based on the small part we see them. Now how I see it, I feel that Celesita is very motherly like and very caring. However she is also a ruler with over 1000 years of experience. She would have to be a dam good ruler to not only last that long but to have her subjects adore her as much as they do. So to me there are times when she draws a line in the ground when someone tries to disturb the peace. She banished her own sister to the moon for 1000 years. To me that is pretty harsh, 1000 years of isolation is a serious punishment. Luna did commit a serious crime. Then there is Discord who is imprisoned in stone for 1k+ years. That means he is not dead, but to be in a limbo like that is again a very serious punishment. What if he was conscious, just imagine how tough that is. In addition, when I look at how scared the citizens are of displeasing Celestia, that to me mean she has made it very clear, you do not break the law. Maybe that is why Equestria is the utopia that we see, they do not commit crimes because they are too scared of it.
But that does not mean she enjoys any of it. She probably hates it more than anything. She knows she has to be strict at times but probably does not want to. So, to me, Celestia stripping her of her powers (which were acquired by dark magic) is a much more merciful punishment then death/imprisonment. I mean other beings, even her own sister, tried to take over Equestria and look at their punishments. To me Chrysalis was much more merciful. Titles don't make a being, it is their actions. So since Chrysalis intentions were not malicious, I feel that is why Celestia was gentle with her.
Now for Luna. Out of the two I feel she is the much more emotional. She is prone to letting her emotions get the best of her. Younger siblings tend to do that. Her jealousy caused her to be Nightmare Moon. In the story, at first, she wanted Chrysalis dead for her crimes. She let her anger get the best of her. Celestia had to calm her down and remind her of her past and punishment. Celestia had to put things in perspective for her sister.
For Blueblood, while he is an arrogant ass, he did not break any laws as far as we can tell. His only crime is him being a jerk. Celestia did punish him by letting Chrysalis get off the hook for kicking his ass. That and she has not given him any power to begin with. If Blueblood committed a serious crime, I think Celestia would bring down the hammer on him just as well.
Now with that all being said that does not mean I am right. This is how I see it and how I see Celestia. To me, having her powers stripped but being allowed to live with all the rights of an Equestrian citizen is way better than being dead. You cannot better your life if your dead. Though she did get a serious punishment, but not the worst possible one. Celestia is trying to teach her a lesson.
I do hope that helps, you bring excellent insight to a complicated situation. Until the MLP team actually show Celestia and Luna true self we can only speculate on their actions.
896869
We will see
897719
It's kind of a fantasy RTS with a choice: do you want to be Evil, or Really Evil? I found it fun (stuck on what I think is the final boss), but everyone has different tastes.
897719
I still see it as a gross violation of Chrysalis's being. She was a changeling. She was born a changeling, she expected to die a changeling. the dark magics were used by her ancestor, who knows how many generations back. She should be punished yes, but to me it seems killing almost all of her race in one move should be enough of a 'Fuck Off' message. Killing the rest, then stripping their queen of her own body just seems a bit to much. She may only have been a pseudo alicorn, but that's how she was born. It seems to me that by now the Alicorn-esque body type would be changeling royalty genetics, no longer linked to dark magics. So reducing Chrysalis from Changeling royalty to a mudpony commoner seems like a brutish method of saying 'what now bitch? I win.' I think at the very least, the VERY least, Chrysalis should have been a unicorn. Not letting her keep her magic is pretty cruel. that's like chopping of someone's hands and telling them to deal with it.
And to top off Celestia's vindictive personality, she then confines Chrysalis to Canterlot, as if to say "you wanted to live here, fine. LIVE HERE!" If I were Chrysalis I would have slapped the shit out of Celestia for taking away nearly everything that defined her. We know Celestia banished Luna and froze Discord using the elements, but with how she's so regretful about Luna it makes you wonder if she meant for it to be so long. Did the elements lock her up for a thousand years because they KNEW about the mane six? I think so. and you say this was a merciful punishment? I don't think so. Merciful would be stripping her down to the most basic magic, such as levitation, taking away her wings, and exiling her back to the wastelands.
and Luna. I think your presentation of her is a little short tempered, but otherwise good.
and thats my wall o' text. not as big as yours, but eh.
Also I hope Twilight finds out and does not approve. delicious Twilight Vs Celestia conflict.
Blueblood getting slapped upside the head with a serving tray, lol. well worth the price of admission.
893689
those aren't paintings. they were just too hard to remove.
897943
You do make a good point. I think we just see two different versions of Celestia. I mean for me I see Celestia as the ideal ruler. Now I read "The Prince" by Machiavelli. Machiavelli believes that it is better to be feared then loved if you are a ruler. Celestia one upped him there by being both feared and loved at the same time. She has the experience to do so. So yes she is strict when it comes to her ponies safety.
Now I feel Celestia did not make her a unicorn because if she was, she would probably end up getting her body back one way or the other. Celestia is taking no chances. Canterlot was pretty dam close to being lost, and she is not going to risk that. That and I dont see a way (in my eyes) on how she can restrict the magic of others. If she could do that why not do it earlier on Chrysalis? For the other changelings, she offered peace but Chrysalis refused it. Partly Chrysalis fault that their dead too.
Also if she did exile her, well then she can't learn her lesson and she would probably try to raise another army. This way she can keep a eye on her.
But I do enjoy your discussion, hope I am not ruining the story for you.
898169
Yes, yes it is :D
897719
And yes, as I said, it's still a depressing thought to me since the Changelings are my favorite non-pony species.
898231
now I'd continue this, but its past midnight and I'm tired. I think you're wrong though it doesn't matter. I still think Twilight would disagree. I wanna see that.
898739
It is meant to be a sad story. But yes I do like the changelings too, well Chrysalis per say, but that is not the point. They all look the same, hence to me I dont think they do have an individuality. But anyways I do hope you like the story.
899055
And that is perfectly fine to think I am wrong on the subject. However that is how I see it. Now how would Twilight act, good question. On one hand she is extremely loyal to Celestia, and pretty much hangs on her every word. But she is a smart pony so she would have her own opinions too.
Here you go! A dramatic reading of the first chapter by Epic_Tyrone.
892642 Ah, I heard the prelude long ago, back in the days of Evangelion's "Death and Rebirth", where in the DVD it was used as the opening menu music.
Too bad all the other changelings are now dead. This means Chrysalis is a critically endangered species!
I must clone her! FOR SCIENCE!!
913339
Welp shes a pony, so technically they are extinct.
914329 NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! I need their genetic material for my research!
There may still be some salvageable samples in the squashed changelings! *gallops off to go gather some for his evil experiments*
914819
Well unless Chrysalis or another pony uses the same exact magic the very first changeling used to make herself a changeling, then there are no changelings. Changelings are ponies just tainted with dark magic.
914826 *Helix, the mad scientist pony leans in secretively* Did you know that multi-generational magics leave genetic markers? Celestia doesn't wish us to know! I suspect if I can infuse all the markers into myself, I can become more powerful that the Princesses! Perhaps even more powerful than Discord! *insane smile of EVIL!! Clearly, Helix is a bad pony!*
It is going to take me a while to finish the next chapter. Right now I am very busy with my current job. In addition I have other things to take care of. However I am still working on the story. I am just unable to work on it as much as I would like.
897943
I completely agree with your point. What Celestia did to Chrysalis was borderline evil, and certainly falls under the category of cruel and unusual punishment.
997002
FINALLY! It would be like forcefully regressing an adult human into the clumsy body of a toddler. Its a complete disregard for Chrysalis's rights as a living being. Even when a human looses everything, they still have themselves. Now, Chrysalis doesn't even have that. Celestia doesn't deserve that kind of power. Nopony does.
997422
That certainly can be true. I mean I tried to paint a different picture than most of the stories. There are a lot of Chrysalis stories out there, and a lot of them have the same overview. I am trying to make a different story.
999234
Foxy, While I think Celestia's actions have been reprehensible, that in no ways means I dislike the story. In fact, this is one of the most enjoyable Chrysalis fics out there I've come across. Heck, as much as I disagree with her, I can even kinda see where Celestia is coming from (in thinking she's being merciful). I look forward to seeing this story continue in whatever direction you decide to take it.
1000149
Why thank you! I do enjoy stories when there are grey areas. Just black and white gets a little bland sometimes. But I am working on chapter 7 right now. Almost done with the rough draft. I am kinda busy with my job at the moment hence why it is taking so dam long.
Chapter 7 rough draft is complete. I need to edit it and then I will upload it soon.
The assimilation has already begun.
Alas Chrysalis, you are now lost to become yet another pony in Celestia's herd.
1038043
Your avatar is perfect for that comment.
It seems really silly to keep Chrysalis within Canterlot's walls. Think about it. She can't fly. She can't do her old magic now. She can't go home either because if she does her children will feed on her. In short, Chrysalis has been cut off at the knees.
Yeah, what Celestia did was reprehensible. I would like someone to point that out to her. And again, I'm gonna feel stupid if it turns out somepony DID in one of the chapters already released.
I have read a lot of fimfiction, and in my own opinion have good taste in writing. Now, I have just taken an hour to make a fimfiction account so that I could say this. Very well done! Wonderful! Bravo! I look forward to the rest of the story.
That's a rather disturbing thought; being crushed between a wall and Shining Armor's force field.
<--------- (shudders)
Fascinating story so far buuuut...the dialog is giving me a problem. Doesn't anyone in Equestria use contractions when they talk. Really comes across as unnatural. I can sort of understand Chrysalis in a way. Royals sometimes have a more formal way of speech though in the show she was more relaxed than even that but once we get to the more manual labor types it just comes across as so stilted and unnatural with all the "I am" instead of "I'm" or "do not" rather than "don't". lol, it's like Data from Star Trek only he had an excuse as he was an android. Other than that I'm still reading so you got me hooked.
2071851
Honestly in Canterlot it makes a bit more sense. Hoity Toitiness and all. Contractions are for plebians.
I hate and love degrading changes. Maiming people, disabilities. Reading about a soldier losing his eyesight or a painter losing his hands always gets to me, I often wonder what I would do in such a case. So about half through this chapter I was able to sit back and think... What a twist! I am not gonna lie I totally thought this story was going towards Chrysalys making a come back, breaking out or maybe it being a dark satire and her inner thoughts with those of a guard or something.
But I like a this. I have more to read though so I'll get back to you. Overall plot flow is good, couple slow spots but I forgot where they were.
Grammar was good. About 1-4 errors per chapter. There's an unclosed comma with Celestia at the very end of this one for instance and an extra space. There must've been more dialogue there at one time...? 
892642
Wonderful music. I tend to obsess over the counterpoint in baroque music and forget that pieces like this exist. Thanks for reminding me that there is more to baroque music than counterpoint.
I need to stop rereading your story kimchi, Im not gettin any work done because of you. lol
I will say Foxy, I wish this monologue narration had been sooner, prolly closer to the start of the fic. The explanation about the changelings themselves that is. Just because it seems random here and at the get go I was wondering if they would try and save her.
Her mother had used the last bit of her energy giving birth to her. She had been alone from the very beginning, trying to carve out a measly existence for herself and her changelings. Chrysalis carried a heavy burden on her shoulders, and the weight was finally starting to bring her down.
She had tried to do everything for her changelings by giving them energy or trying to make them self-aware. Although she had made some progress on the latter by making them feel some emotion, she had ultimately failed. She could not get her changelings to become individuals. To them, there was only “us” and her. Always obedient and never questioning, they could never think for themselves. In the end, they were just beasts. She’d had to plan all of the movements, all of their actions. She did miss them greatly, but she was not completely lost without them; she’d never had any real relationships with them, anyway.
As is it'd need rewording anyways, but just my two bits on the matter. This comments just an excuse for me to lament over not working to finish any of my own stories yet. lol
fc09.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2013/144/c/b/march_to_the_scaffold_6___defying_blueblood_by_arthurjeremypearson-d66ep48.jpg
fc06.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2013/144/a/c/march_to_the_scaffold_6_2_despondant_silver_by_arthurjeremypearson-d66ep8p.jpg
fc06.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2013/144/a/6/march_to_the_scaffold_6_3_pbj_therapy_by_arthurjeremypearson-d66epcy.jpg
fc00.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2013/144/6/9/march_to_the_scaffold_6_4_mortar_in_my_pbj_by_arthurjeremypearson-d66epgx.jpg
As far as I know, this music fits this entire fic.
One of my favorite parts of this chapter. Especially after reading the scene with Blueblood LOL.
As usual Blueblood acts like a complete and total ass and gets his kicked. Do I feel sorry for him, hell no. Am I going to laugh at his pain, of course. Ha ha ha.
Blueblood, asshole as we all know him, got his well-deserved punishment.