A Change in Commission

Who you Work for
Ch1

“You'll never make it out there! You'll never work in this city again! You're history! You hear me!?” Those were the words that trailed after Coco Pommel as she strutted out of the runway plaza with a strong sense of purpose, and the slightest hint of swagger, in her step.

Coco Pommel, a resident of Manehattan, was an unassuming and soft-spoken dressmaker and aspiring fashion designer who aimed to make a name for herself in the big city. She had a cream-white complexion, a sky blue-striped mane, a tyrolean cutie mark, and a signature lilac sailor collar, she may just as well have been the meaning behind the term "cute as a button". For a good long while, Coco had been under the employment of local fashion designer, Suri Polomare, hoping that the experience with Suri might help herself advance in the field of fashion design. Unfortunately, Suri was not the most charitable of employers and often treated Coco poorly. Even when Coco gave it her all, Suri would find a way to put down and criticize her employee, always drilling down on one point: "It's everypony for herself." The timid mare had been under Suri's hoof for so long that she came to believe this sentiment as truth.

However, over the course of events of the most recent Fashion Week, Coco had an epiphany of sorts. Through the interactions with, and with the help of, distinguished fashionista Rarity and her friends, Coco came to realize that a little generosity can go a long way and that it doesn't have to be everypony for herself. So, Coco took it upon herself to rectify the situation, right the wrongs of events past, and live her life with this newfound sense of generosity. Her first course of action: to present a rather impromptu and abrupt notice of resignation to Suri in the form of a steaming hot cup of macchiato.

Soon after parting ways with Suri, Coco approached Rarity and her friends, explaining the circumstances of the most recent Fashion Week and informing them of lies that Suri had made to secure her victory. Coco apologized for her involvement in the affairs, presenting Rarity with a small spool of rainbow-colored thread as a way to thank her for her generosity. Rarity gladly accepted the apology and offered Coco a chance to work with a friend of hers in Manehattan, as a way to help the young mare get her hoof in the door in the scene of fashion design. Coco humbly accepted and thanked Rarity once again for all she had done, and saw her friends off at the train station as they returned to Ponyville before heading to help Rarity's friend with his line of dresses. For several weeks, Coco played the assistant to the mare, who fully proved to be a much more gracious and courteous employer than Suri could ever hope to be, as she helped in the creation of a set of costumes for his next big show. In that time, Coco learned much more than she had ever hoped, both in dressmaking and in fashion design. Several weeks under the instruction of one of Manehattan's most famous clothing designers allowed plenty of time for Coco to make a name for herself... and plenty of time for that name to be completely trashed.

Coco had proven to be an incredible student and a skilled dressmaker and designer in her own respect, and she sought out a job as a dressmaker or assistant fashion designer immediately following her time with Rarity. However, Coco soon came to realize that securing another employment opportunity in the field of fashion was impossible for her. Every store in town turned her down for one of two reasons: they were not looking for designers at the time; or they refused to hire the poor mare for her bad reputation, a reputation of which she learned after she began seeking a job in the line of fashion. She couldn't doubt the fact that word of her most recent "conversation" with Suri had already spread, and that her old employer had warned just about everypony in the city involving and her "rash" behavior. A hot cup of coffee in an ex-boss's face may have come off as incredibly rude and impulsive to nearly everypony regaled with the tale, but to Coco and those who knew her side of the story (a list of ponies about as long as a bodkin), Suri fully deserved it. After all, it was Suri who had copied and stolen Rarity's concept and designs, stitch for stitch, from the fabric she "borrowed". It was Suri who had Coco work on the "new" line-up for Manehattan's Fashion Week, even though Suri was the one participating in the contest. It was Suri who lied to Rarity in the hopes that Poniville's finest fashionista would forfeit the contest, leaving her to be the victor by default. To Coco, it was Suri who had been rude and inconsiderate, not her. For that reason, she believed that Suri fully deserved a cup of hot coffee to the face.

What little Pride Coco had in herself for standing up to Suri did not last, and she soon came to feel a great deal of remorse for her course of action as word of her actions quickly spread throughout the fashion design community. With her new reputation making it difficult for her to find a job in the respective field, Coco had little choice but to find work elsewhere. To help pay rent and make a living, the mare took up a position at the local coffee shop. It wasn't exactly her dream job, but it worked out well enough. Coco's time working for her two most recent employers turned her into a competent dressmaker and a fine barista, capable of hemming a ball gown as easily as adding the right amount of froth to a vanilla cappuccino. However, her ability to make a mean espresso reminded Coco all too well of her time working for Suri and the abuse with which she dealt for so long, as if the past liked to taunt the unfortunate mare and maliciously harp on the mistakes she made, and Coco .

It was another day at the coffee shop as Coco made another transaction at the cash register. “That will be twelve bits, please,” she said with a subtle smile. The customer quickly placed a dozen coins on the counter as Coco scooped them up and placed them in the drawer. “Here is your receipt. Your espresso will be number 37.”

11 A.M., Wednesday morning. Traffic in the shop was slow, as expected. Business during this time of day was usually scarce. Most of the pony folk were at work. Coco was an opener at the store and had about an hour left of her shift before she had to clock out.

A voice came from behind Coco. “Do you want me to make the espresso for you?” She turned her head to see her boss standing behind her. A badge by the name of Steam Joe was pinned on the manager's shirt.

“You sure you can handle it?”

“Missy, I've been working here since I opened this joint! I basically know this place like the back of my hoof. Probably better, at this point. I got it.”

“Alright.” After an exchange of smiles, the boss began making the caffeinated beverage as Coco began sweeping the floors of the kitchen. An uneasy silence slowly began to settle in between employer and employee.

“So... any luck finding any work in your fashion field yet?” Joe asked.

Coco stopped sweeping, her head hung low. “No, not yet...”

Joe could see the physical and mental exhaustion in his co-worker as she resumed her sweeping session, staring blankly at the ground. “It's been about 2 months since you've been workin' here and you still haven't found anything?”

“No...” she said in a hushed tone. It's not like Coco hadn't found anything; at this point, she had given up more than anything else. No matter how many times she walked in and out of fashion departments, wrote applications, and tirelessly called various businesses with inquiries about job openings, she was always dismissed or ignored. “I mean, I'm fairly sure I know why I'm having such terrible luck, but it's just so hard to believe that every department in the city neither wants nor needs me.” She stopped looking for another job in the field of fashion almost 2 weeks ago. The effort just didn't seem to pay off, and she felt that she would be better off in a stable occupation with which to make a living rather than wasting precious time in what seemed to be a frivolous pursuit of a career in a field she held so dear.

“You've gotta move on from this place and out into the real world. You know how much you love fashion. Your co-workers and I certainly do. We've all heard you talk up a storm about dresses and models and fashion design and all that creative jazz. We know you want this for yourself, and so do you. You just gotta believe in yourself.”

“That's true. But who is going to take me? I mean, I already have a bad name out there even though I stood up for what was right. I just-”

Placing a hoof on her shoulder, Joe said kindly, “Hun, we talk about this almost every time you work. Just remember this: work will find you in due time. You just gotta take the initiative to find it.”

“Yeah, you're right.” A light smile came across Coco's light cream colored face. Looking up, she said, “Maybe today I might find some work.”

Joe gave small grin of his own in approval. “That's the spirit! But before you go following that light in your heart, how about you keep up with your current job and take this next customer's order?”

The glass door swung open as a pony veiled in a black, hooded cloak entered the shop. It was difficult to make out most of the pony's visage, save a large, keen fang that was bared on the left side of its mouth.

Coco turned around to get a proper view of the hooded figure but quickly did a double take as she got a full glimpse of the brooding figure. “C... can you take this customer's order boss?” Coco looked a bit nervous because of the shady figure that had just entered the coffee store.

“Nonsense! You can handle this!” Patting the mare's back, Joe exclaimed, “Hello, inconspicuous customer! My lovely employee Coco Pommel here shall take your order!”

“Thanks for putting me in the spotlight...” she said weakly.

“Well, you do have experience in running fashion shows and the sort. You should be used to it.” Leaving his co-worker to deal with the customer, Joe walked through the kitchen doors and out of sight.

Coco had been too distracted by her boss to realize that the cloaked figure had made their way to the counter. She turned back around, startled by the sudden appearance of the figure. She took a moment to compose herself just enough to firmly grip the cash register and use it as a makeshift barrier between her and the stranger. “How may I, umm... t... take your order?”

The pony in the cloak did not respond but simply reached one hoof toward its hood. Coco began to panic. Oh no!, she thought frantically. He... she... it's about to take off its hood! It's probably some hideous face of a wrinkled earth pony! Just as she closed her eyes and began to imagine the vilest complexion possible, the dark figure tossed their hood back and revealed a face.

Lowering its head, the individual said in a low tone, “Just a cup of dark walnut coffee and a heart-shaped brownie...”

Coco slowly opened her eyes and, much to her relief was not greeted with the horrifying images that her mind had fabricated. When Coco got a good look at the pony, she realized the figure was a unicorn stallion and a very tired-looking one at that. His face was a dark crimson and his hair had a glass-like quality to it. There were various splotches of red in the stallion's hair, like bloodied shards in a broken glass mural. It seemed that he was hoof-crafted, made to look perfect. The only odd feature was the fang hanging on the corner of his lip.

Well, now I feel like a jerk.... Keeping her thoughts to herself, Coco finally responded to the customer's request. “I'm sorry, but we don't have heart-shaped brownies.”

“Can't you just cut them into the shape?”

The earth pony looked at the selection of sweets that sat on the counter. In the midst of them were the brownies in a perfect square. “I suppose I could.”

“And can you make sure you make the coffee with love?”

Coco giggled in amusement at the crimson unicorn's request. “Umm... excuse me?”

“Just... can you please?” the stallion asked, avoiding eye contact.

“Hehe, sure, no problem.” Coco quickly punched in the order. “Seven bits, please.”

The unicorn scooped his hoof into his satchel and casually procured a hefty sum of coins far greater than the required seven. “Will this cover it?”

Must be a foreigner... “Yeah, and then some...” Coco gathered only seven of the bits that littered the countertop and pushed the remainder of the coins back to the stallion.

“The extra is to make sure you put love in it.”

“Y... you sure?” The mare was amused on how the customer was acting. Is he hitting on me?

“Please, make sure it is made with extra love.”

“Okay then.” After taking the rest of the coins, Coco cut a brownie into a heart shape and began making the cup of coffee. While she was doing so, the cloaked customer was still standing at the register, stiff as a board, seemingly lifeless. Shying away, the mare continued her task.

Coming out of the kitchen was her boss who looked at the customer and asked, “Have you been helped, sir?”

Remaining in his stagnant position, the unicorn uttered a simple "Mhm."

“Alright then, sir...” Hurrying over to Coco, the manager asked, “Did you anger him?”

“No, not at all," she assured. "He's actually quite funny.”

“How so?”

“He wanted me to make the coffee with extra love.” Coco giggled once again. Just the thought of a customer wanting to have a cup of coffee with love was rather bizarre, but the pony seemed so serious about it that it was hard for Coco to contain herself.

As the light-cream mare walked over to the counter to call the order, Joe furrowed his brow. “Were you talking about your crazy fashionista life with another customer?”

Coco panicked, “N... no! Not this time."

“Alright, good. Remember: there's a time and place for everything.”

Within a few awkwardly silent minutes, the mare finished the unicorn's order. Coco brought the order to the counter and called out to her sole customer. “Your order is ready, sir!”

Coming back to life, the unicorn slowly stepped up to the counter and used his magic to collect the coffee and brownie. “Thanks... Do you have any paper towels?”

“Sure! Let me getcha some,” Joe said from behind the counter as he ran off into the kitchen.

Coco sighed, annoyed by her boss's conjecture. “Geez... always assuming I'm always talking about fashion.”

“Did you say fashion?” Without realizing it, the mare began thinking aloud, inadvertently drawing the customer's attention to the conversation she was having with herself.

Coco turned to face the unicorn. “Yes, I did.”

“How much do you know?” the unicorn queried, clearly interested in the topic at hoof.

Coco shrugged, “Well... lots, really. What do you want to know?”

Before the unicorn could continue the conversation, an abrupt “Aha!” came from Joe as he walked in on the conversation with rather poor timing. The mare was startled by the sudden exclamation and dashed around the counter where the customer was standing. “Well, so much for not bothering customers with your fashionista jibber-jabber,” he said accusingly. "Didn't we just talk about time and place?"

“N... no, he asked me!” she squeaked.

“It's true,” the calm unicorn affirmed. “I am quite curious as to what she knows about dressmaking and fashion, and what kind of experience she has in relation to these subjects.”

Joe stood there, brows raised, staring intently at the customer. "Alright... Well, she's had issues with this sort of thing before..." He turned his focus to both of them - "...so just keep the chit-chat to a minimum, will ya? There's bound to be other customers coming by soon." Joe singled out Coco with a small nod. "YOU'RE still on the clock, missy. Don't go neglectin' the other customers just for this fella's sake." Coco gave a small nod of acknowledgment as she walked back behind the counter. Joe returned the nod as he headed to the kitchen. "I'll leave you to it."

As the kitchen door swung shut, the mare once again fixed her attention on the customer. “Sorry about that. My boss can be a bit brash at times, but he really does mean well. Anyways, why did you want to know what I know about fashion? It's rather refreshing to be able to talk with a customer about this since nopony ever really asks me about it while I'm behind the counter."

The unicorn replied, “I am here in Manehattan to look for a fashion designer ready to be assigned a large task.”

Intrigued, Coco asked, “And what may that be?”

“I'm looking for somepony capable of making a dress fit for a queen," the unicorn said nonchalantly.

“That sounds lovely!” Coco exclaimed.

The unicorn nodded in approval. “How about we sit down and discuss my proposal?”

The mare frowned. “I would, but, as my boss pointed out, I have work to do.”

“Ah, yes, you are correct. What time will your shift be over?”

“Uh... I get off in about an hour.”

“Then I shall wait here until you are free.”

“Oh, no, you don't have to do that,” Coco said with a nervous smile. "Why don't we discuss it another time or- "

Before Coco could finish her sentence, the stallion procured a sack of bits and gave it a good shake. Coins sang from within, like some joyous Hearth Warming Eve carol. “I will pay you well if you are willing to accept the commission.”

The mare's eyes widened in sheer astonishment. “I'LL TAKE THE COMMISSION!” The ambient noise of conversation, cups and coffee machines within the cafe was abruptly drowned out by Coco's extreme outburst. She blushed and lowered her head in embarrassment. "Ehehe... yes, I'll take the commission."

With the faintest sign of a smile, the unicorn said, “Then I shall be waiting.” And with that, he turned and walked off into the store and rounded a corner.

“Looks like you have yourself some work for your clothes-making skills.” Joe was standing just outside the kitchen door seeming quite pleased with the events that had just unfolded. "I happened to walk in as your friend dropped that sack of money on the counter. Seems he's pretty serious about this whole job he's got planned out for ya. Ponies don't just go whippin' out giant bags o' bits for nothin'." His smile faded a bit. "But ya can't go causin' such a racket about it, alright? Time and place. Seriously."

Coco blushed with embarrassment again. “Hehe... guess I did get carried away a bit. But please oh please oh pleeeaase let me go talk to him now! It's been so long since I've had a chance to work in the line of fashion! Just let me go just this once please!” There was no hiding her enthusiasm. It was written all over her face with a giant quirky grin. Coco was practically bursting with emotions at this point; ecstasy, exhilaration, and anxiousness, all at the same time. In all her life, not once did she envision a scenario of this magnitude. It was almost like this entire turn of events had been ripped straight from a fairy tale or a fantastical fan fiction.

Joe paused for a moment, contemplating whether or not he was feeling particularly softhearted at the time. “Ah, go on, I gotcha covered. Take the rest of the day off. I can see how important this really is to ya. Just let me know if you need a few days off ASAP. I haven't made next week's schedule yet.”

Coco's eyes shimmered with delight as memories of the time that Rarity presented her with a job opportunity came flooding back. “Thank you so much, Joe!”

The old pony smirked. “You're welcome. Now go do your thing before I get all crusty-hearted again.”

In an instant, she briskly shadowed the same path that the unicorn took just moments earlier, finding him sitting alone in a corner on the vacant side of the building with his back turned to the rest of the cafe and its denizens. A wisp of energy with a sinister green glow drifted through the air and made its way to the unicorn's horn.

Trying not to startle him, Coco gently said, “Umm, I'm here, so...”

Unfortunately, her plan didn't go accordingly. The colt flinched in surprise as he turned to see who was behind him. “Oh. Hello again. I did not expect you at this time. Was I incorrect in my understanding of you finishing in an hour?”

“No, my boss let me go early for the day. Sorry about that.”

“No need to be sorry. Come, sit down, so we can discuss business matters.”

Shaking with anticipation, the mare joined the unicorn at the table, sitting across from him. “So what do you want me to do in terms of tailoring, mister...”

“Inferno Fang, but you may address me as Fang if you wish.”

“Alright.” She glanced at Fang's coffee and brownie. The coffee no longer looked like a delectable liquid, but more like thick molasses. The heart-shaped treat was now shriveled, cracked, and darkened. It looked as though it was sucked dry of its appeal and love. I wonder what he did to... never mind. I might as well not ask...

The unicorn broke her train of thought. “I must say I'm certainly glad I finally found somepony to do this job.”

Coco looked puzzled. “What do you mean?”

“No matter where I ventured in this city, no tailor or designer wanted to take my task at hoof. I tried to show them the amount I would pay, but they simply said something along the lines of 'We are busy. Come back another time.' You would think that somewhere in this city you might find a generous soul who would take the job.”

“Well, I can be that generous pony.” I can't let this job slip by. Even if I have to come back and work at this coffee shop for the rest of my life, I just can't give up on my passion.

“Are you sure you can do this?”

“Yes, most definitely!”

“Positive?”

“Absolutely. I will put my skills to the test!”

“Very well, then. I shall take you at your word. However, if you disappoint my Queen-”

“Wait... did you say 'queen?'”

“Correct.”

The air between the two grew tense. Wow... a queen... A lot went through Coco's mind at that moment. Up to this point, the biggest project in which the mare had ever been involved was the pony musical, for which she assisted Rarity in making the costumes. Aside from that, she has made the lovely clothing designs for the fashion show for Suri and several other commissions for dances and balls. But this task blows everything out of the water! A queen... Coco thought again. “Where is this queen?”

Taking his time, Fang replied, “The kingdom is in the... Pointy Rock Glaciers?” The unicorn could not help but feel ridiculous about his last statement. I have the honor of acting as the Queen's personal guard, yet I still manage to make a fool of myself...

“Are those the mountains that go beyond the Everfree Forrest?”

But then again, the Queen always tells us, 'The gullible are the easiest to trick.' “Yes... they are.”

“I never thought there was a kingdom out there.”

“We live there in secret, secluded from the rest of the world.”

“How will we be getting there?”

“We take a train to Canterlot, where I will escort you to the kingdom.”

“Sounds...”

“Exciting?”

“It certainly does, but...” Now the request was beginning to sound like an even more unrealistic fan fiction. This random customer walks into the coffee shop, offers Coco a job, and says it's for a queen for a kingdom of which she's never heard. The more Coco thought about it, the more ridiculous it all sounded, and the more Coco felt unsure about this task.

Fang could see the doubt in her eyes. “You do not have to take the job if it sounds too unrealistic.”

But the reality packed in the unicorn's statement snapped the mare out of her daze. “No! I can't back down! Not now. I will take the job!” Coco, without a doubt, had her mind made up. She was going to take the job. She was going to work for this queen. And above all, she was going to continue her dream.

Fang smirked subtly. “Excellent. Meet me at the train station at 6 PM this evening.”

“Wait, we're leaving tonight?”

“Correct.”

Coco frowned. “That doesn't leave me with much time to prepare.”

“I'm sorry, but I have an agenda to uphold. The Queen is...”

“Mean?”

“Let's just say that she needs all the love in the world. If she is unable to come by enough love...” Fang shuddered at the thought of his queen being angered.

“Alright. Well, if I'm to pack all my stuff in time, I'd best be going." As she got up from her seat, a thought crossed Coco's mind. "Ah, but I'll need to let my boss know what's going on. How long do you think I will be gone?"

Fang paused, the question taking a lot longer to answer than Coco predicted. "You may be having an extended leave that will be much longer than a day off."

Coco bit her lower lip, worried her current job would be in jeopardy if she had suddenly flaked out with a flurry of no-shows. She had already a bad reputation for "attacking" her former boss. Wouldn't want to tack on another negative mark. "I'll need to speak to my boss about that. But I will be ready to leave tonight."

"Excellent," Fang smiled, his long tooth reflecting a small twinkle. "I'll see you at the train station at six.”

“As will I.”

With that, Coco and Fang exchanged courteous nods, and the cream-white mare headed towards her boss to inform him of the events at hoof, greeting him with a sigh full of both relief and nervous energy. "Well, Joe... looks like I'll finally be using those vacation days."

Joe laughed, grinning from ear to ear. "About time, too! Aw, man, this is great news! I know I give you a hard time about the whole fashion thing, especially with talking to the customers about it, but you've earned this opportunity! I'm so glad you've finally got your hoof in the door again. Congrats, kiddo! Anyways, know how long you're gonna be off?"

Coco looked down a bit. "Not really. I want to say it won't take too long since it sounds like it's just the one dress, but it's not exactly around these parts, so I'm not exactly sure."

Joe patted her shoulder. "Ah, don't worry about it. I'll work something out with your co-workers to get ya covered. You go do your thing. Make me proud!"

Coco smiled. "Thanks, Joe. I'll be sure to give it my all. See you around." And with that, Coco took her leave and left for her apartment.

***

Being the designer she was, Coco decided to be fashionably early to the train station. She awkwardly lugged two bags and a trunk strapped to her back like a makeshift camel's hump. It was 5:30 PM, the sun was casting a brilliant spectrum of reds and oranges as it set for the day, and Inferno Fang was nowhere to be seen. Maybe I was too early...

But the mare's thoughts were cut short as she caught eye and fang of the unicorn. Once again, Fang had his dark cowl concealing his head, as if to purposefully appear suspicious. Coco flimsily approached and said, “I'm here!”

The unicorn turned to greet her. "Excellent. I'm glad you arrived early." Fang noticed that the poor earth pony's legs were shaking from trying to carry such a heavy load. “Would you like some help with carrying your belongings?”

“Don't worry, I'll be fine-”

However, Fang was not about to take no for an answer. Without question, he used his magic to loosen the ropes that were securing the luggage to Coco and set the heavy boxes gently down onto the ground. “Better?”

“Yeah...” With no strength left, Coco flopped onto her belly in exhaustion.

“Well, well, look who it is.” A rogue voice came from behind the tired mare.

That voice... It couldn't be...!

Coco staggered to her feet, very much aware, and afraid, of the mare to whom the voice belonged. Confirming her fears, and much to her misfortune, Coco turned to see her old boss, Suri Polomare.

No! Oh no, no, no! Not her! Why here? Why now?! Coco retreated behind Fang as Suri slowly approached.

The mare's actions perplexed the unicorn. “Do you know her?” Fang asked.

Coco nodded frantically. “Yes! She's-”

“I'm her ex-boss.” Suri was very blunt as she interrupted the cowering mare. For some reason, she was smiling as she looked at Coco. “Are you finally running away from the city? Finally realizing no one wants you here and that I was right all along?”

In that moment, a flame - a sense of justice and confidence - ignited within Coco's heart. No longer was she Suri's doormat. No longer was she a pushover. She was a dressmaker - a fashionista in her own right - through and through, on her way to her first commission - for a queen, no less. But before she had time to act upon it, Coco's new-found courage was quickly extinguished by her own fear as torments of the past flooded her mind.

Fang spoke up, coming to the mare's defense. “She is assisting me in a commission.”

“Oh, it's you again.” Turning to the hooded unicorn, Suri mocked, “Have you finally found some city trash to help you with your dress fit for a queen? Let me tell you right now: the only thing she's good at is making coffee, and even then, sh-”

Fang cut her short, “I came to this city looking for someone worthy of this job. I have spent many hours digging through 'trash', and I have been rewarded for my tireless search." He turned towards Coco, who was no longer cowering behind her partner - "I found a gem. The most precious one in the city, perhaps in all of Equestria." - and turned back to Suri. "I know trash when I see it. You are the last mare who needs to educate me on the subject.” Fang stood quiescent, staring at the pink mare with a blank and emotionless visage.

A gem? Wow... I hardly know this unicorn or where he's from and he's still standing up for me.

Suri was floored, rooted in place, mouth agape, with no comeback to be had. She couldn't think of any way to retaliate; there really wasn't any way to retaliate from Fang's beautifully executed scorning. Soon enough, she collected herself, realizing how foolish she looked standing with her teeth in her mouth. “I see.” She then turned to Coco. “Well, I'm not surprised you're running off with this hooded freak.”

“W... what do you mean?” Coco stuttered.

“It's certainly not the first time you've run off like this. That day you threw the coffee in my face? You can't tell me you weren't running from your problems then. Oh, but not before throwing that little tantrum, of course. Well, thanks to your little hissy fit, I decided to give all of the stores around town a 'friendly' word of advice about you, warning them about your out-of-control behavior." Coco looked down in shame as she was forced to recall her actions from that fateful day and relive the guilt associated with them. "And, judging by all these bags packed and ready for you to move out..." Suri gave a swift kick to the auburn leather case closest to her left hind leg, causing a cacophony of tiny bottles and pins to erupt from within. "...I think it's safe to say they've all but run you out of the dressmaking world.” Coco was on the verge of tears as her ex-boss continued to affront her relentlessly. “I warned you before that it's everypony for themselves in the city. You turned against me, and I made your life a living nightmare. Simple as that. And now here you are, running away like the day you threw that coffee in my face. Coward."

Coco wanted to completely fade from existence. Suri made sure every word from her mouth was sharp and filled with venom, but she had a point. I knew it... If I hadn't thrown that cup of coffee on her, there would be no bad name against me... Stupid me! She tried to conceal her body from Suri's view, but it was to no avail. All she could do was hide her eyes as they began to flood with tears.

“Are you finished?” Fang asked Suri in a harsh tone. “You are offending Coco and wasting my time.”

“Oh, no! I am FAR from being finished,” the bitter mare replied. By her front hoof was an open cup of coffee. Suri looked down at it with a sinister expression. “Coco...” The frightened mare looked up at her old boss, both out of habit and fear. “I think you forgot something when you left.”

“What...?" From what she remembered, Coco retrieved all her belongings before leaving Suri, so she was taken aback a bit by this new information. "What could I have possibly left in your possession?”

Without missing a beat, Suri ran at Coco with the styrofoam cup in hoof. In an outburst of rage, she screamed, “YOUR STUPID CUP OF COFFEE!”, and with all of her might, the mauve mare threw the hot coffee at her defenseless ex-employee.

Shutting her eyes in fear, Coco thought to herself, I guess I deserve this... “Ah!” Coco tensed up as she felt Fang suddenly leave her side... but, much to her surprise, she never felt the sting of piping hot coffee. When she opened her eyes to find out exactly what happened, she saw Fang staggering a bit as the creamy brown liquid dripped from his face and onto the cup at his feet. Coco looked past Fang to see a rather ill-composed and irritated Suri.

Regaining his footing, Fang glared at the attacker with a satisfied grin. “You missed your target.”

“Grrr...” Suri gritted her teeth, livid that the hooded figure took the blow for Coco.

“Are you alright, Fang?” Coco asked in alarm.

Turning his head, the stallion replied, “It's just liquid. Nothing spectacular here.” As he spoke, the hot coffee bubbled and boiled on his face as it quickly evaporated into the air.

Coco and Suri were both astonished by this spectacle. Coco began to question her friend about this amazing feat. “How did you-”

But Fang anticipated his friend's inquiry. “I can quickly heat my body to rather high temperatures. Again, nothing spectacular here.” A flash of light sucked him from existence, leaving Coco and Suri alone to ponder his all of a sudden absence. Fang conjured up his magic to teleport, instantly appearing in front of Suri, an inch from her face. Suri nearly toppled from the sudden materialization of the brooding face and its glowing green eyes, now fixated on her, almost staring into her soul. In a tone low enough to where only Suri could hear him, the unicorn growled, “I highly recommend that you take your leave. Now. Before I truly lose my temper.”

Suri quickly recovered from Fang's last maneuver, her cocky attitude as diehard as ever. In a mocking tone, she jeered, “And why's that? Hm? Oh, please, show me your worst. I'm no stranger to showbiz. It'll take more than a fancy magic trick to get the best of-"

A split second later, the once-haughty Suri became dead silent as her arrogance and pride were drowned out by terror and dread. She was now looking upon a completely different face, and the unicorn she saw moments ago was gone, replaced by a sinister and dark figure. Once again, Fang spoke in a low tone, but this time with a completely different voice; one akin to a great dragon; one that made the ground beneath him shake. “You should fear that which you cannot comprehend.” Suri blinked a few times, bewildered and frightened by what she just saw, hoping that it was all just a trick played by her eyes. Fang could clearly see her dismay as she stood frozen in place. Satisfied to know that his message finally got across to the stubborn mare, he slowly transformed from the horrible figure back into the familiar unicorn. Suri was still rooted where she stood. No matter how hard she tried, she simply couldn't wrap her head around what just happened. Snapping the mare to attention, Fang barked, “BEGONE!”

Like a dog with its tail between its legs, Suri scampered off as quickly as possible. I MUST TELL SOMEPONY ABOUT THIS!

"That takes care of that." Breathing a sigh of relief, Fang turned back to his partner after he returned to his unicorn form. Coco was watching her fleeing ex-boss with the most baffled of looks. "I must apologize for that rather ugly display. I could not think of any other way to convince your ex-boss to leave you be. I'm certainly glad it worked, and a bit too well if I do say so myself."

"No kidding," an awestruck Coco replied, observing Suri as she disappeared into the crowd of people on the streets.

A faint whistle. Coco turned her attention to the tracks along the station. Fang examined the station clock. Another whistle, but closer than before. "5:57 P.M. I do believe our ride is here, Coco. Let us gather your possessions."

The vivid and colorful locomotive screeched to a halt at the station, hissing and steaming as its doors rolled open. The conductor leaned out and hollered, "AAAAALLL ABOOOOOARD," gaining the full attention of the crowd gathered at the platform.

"Well, then..." Fang gestured to the behemoth on the tracks. "Shall we?" Coco smiled and nodded. The two boarded the train, settled down in the rear passenger car, and waited for the train to set off and bring them to their next destination.

***

Time seemed to pass at its own as the sun slowly set on the horizon and made way for nightfall. A small drizzle found its way to the train, making for a rather unpleasant atmosphere just outside the passenger cars. What little of the world that could be made from inside sped by as Coco and Fang sat quietly on opposite sides from each other.

“Are you still okay?” Fang piped up, hoping to break the dead silence and tension that hung in the air.

“Yeah...” Coco stared pensively at the dark and foggy train window, lazily focused on her downcast reflection as it stared back at her. She was still deep in thought about the encounter with Suri, still hurt by what her ex-boss had said about her and how she was running away from her problems.

“Is there... anything I can do?”

The mare drew away from her trance. “Well, you can answer a question.”

“Alright.”

“What did you do to Suri that caused her to run off like that?”

The unicorn's eyes darted around the room as he thought of a way to phrase his answer. “I did a sort of... burning glare.”

"Oh... Well, I guess that makes enough sense." Coco smiled faintly. "I mean, your name IS Inferno Fang.”

“Indeed. I am quite proficient with... pyromancy? No, that sounds too sinister. Let's just say I'm skilled with doing fiery things, eheh...”

"Hehe, okay. Oh, but you didn't hurt Suri, did you? I mean, she's very bitter and all, but I wouldn't wish physical harm on her... except maybe a cup of coffee to the face..."

Fang shook his head. "No. I simply used my power to intimidate her and get the point across to her. I believe that she will not make the same mistake of denigrating you should you two ever cross paths again."

“Okay, good. Thank you." Coco paused for a moment. "I have another question and it's a silly one.”

“Say what you wish.”

“Will I be treated like a royal guest?”

“Y... yes? I am not one hundred percent sure, but I cannot doubt that you will be given some sort of honor.”

A royal guest... Wow. Hearing about all those times Rarity was treated like a royal guest, and now, here I am, a soon-to-be royal guest myself! Oh, this is so exciting! Subconsciously putting the events of the day in the back of her mind, Coco found a smile work its way onto her face as she turned her head from the window and looked at Fang. “Umm... thank you for finding me and giving me this job.”

“You're welcome...” Fang's voice trailed off as he looked away from Coco.

The mare tilted her head in concern. “Is something wrong?”

“Are you SURE you want this job?” The unicorn's vague question confused the mare as he responded with a question.

“What? Of course I do! I'm finally getting back into fashion design and dressmaking, and all for a queen, no less!”

Fang took a deep breath. “Well, there is something I need to show you - something I should have shown you earlier, but not without risk - and it may cause you to change your mind.”

“I doubt it. I mean, you came into my work to present me with a commission AND you stood up for me when my old boss was being a jerk to me. To be honest, this day couldn't have been any better. It would take a LOT for me to refuse your offer now.” Maybe when we get to Canterlot, I'll be escorted in a personal carriage by Fang. As Coco's mind began to ponder what may be in store for her, she turned her attention back to Fang, who sat motionless with his head hung low. She could see a great deal of remorse in him as if he had just insulted her dressmaking skills. "I'm sorry, I should have taken you a bit more seriously. What did you want to tell me?"

“I cannot tell you, I have to show you...”

“Then show me.” Coco leaned a bit forward, anticipating what the unicorn has to show.

“Alright. However, you have to promise not to scream.”

“What are you talking about?”

Pulling his hood over his head, Fang looked around and saw that the rest of the passengers on the train were either asleep or facing the other way. He then tugged on the sides of his hood so that only Coco could see his face. “Promise not to scream,” he asked again.

“Okay...” Will he be showing me a scar or some fire magi-

Her thoughts, much like her breath, were cut short as she witnessed Fang's face suddenly take on a new form: the face of a changeling. Coco's eyes widened in shock at the sight of this transformation, but she restrained her urge to scream, keeping to her promise.

Quickly reverting back to a unicorn, the changeling took his hood off. “Now do you see why I asked you if you still wanted the job?”

Coco frantically looked around to see if anypony else witnessed this event. A changeling?! HERE?! OF ALL PLACES?! WHAT ARE THE ODDS?! She could hardly speak, but she managed to utter a very muted “mhm.” Pressing her back against the seat, Coco shivered where she sat, shying away from the shapeshifter. “S-so... you... you're a-a ch-changeling?" Fang nodded. The mare looked down, trying to connect the dots in her head. "Wait..." She looked up sharply as it all came together in her mind. "You said I'll be making something fit for a queen, correct?" Fang nodded again. Coco's eyes widened. "So does... does that mean I'll be making something for the changeling queen?” she whispered harshly.

“Queen Chrysalis,” Fang corrected. “And yes, that will be your assignment.” Coco sat frozen in surprise as she began to have second thoughts about the job. She did want to make a dress for a queen, but she never suspected that she would be tasked with making one for the Queen of Changelings. “You are free to turn down my offer if you so wish.” Fang was sincere in his proposal, but he could not help but feel nervous about the thought of Coco rejecting the job, leaving him to return home empty-hoofed or begin his search for a viable dressmaker anew.

Coco couldn't help but notice the changeling's uneasiness as he offered her the chance to decline. Breaking free of her paralyzing trepidation, the mare asked, “Well... what happens if I say no? Will something bad happen to us?”

“For you? Nothing. You simply return home and carry on with your life as if none of this ever happened. As for me..." Fang fell silent for a moment as he pondered exactly what would become of him if he returned to his kingdom without Coco. "Well, a good scolding by the Queen, a cut to the rations I receive each meal, and then have me return to my search for somepony worthy of making a dress fit for our Queen. In short, nothing for you, but nothing good for me."

Coco nodded in response, thinking to herself for a brief period. Wow. I can't turn down this job now. Not with the thought of causing so much trouble for Fang if I do. But this changeling... no, I can't be like this. He hardly knew me, and he still stood up for me of his own volition. Maybe there's more to the changelings than I know, or anypony else knows for that matter. The mare looked up, a fierce determination burning within her. I know what I must do. “I appreciate your offer to back down, but I cannot. I WILL not. I wholeheartedly accept the job!”

Fang raised his eyebrows, blown away by this conviction. “I'm certainly glad to hear that. However, I cannot help but question this sudden boost in confidence that I see in you."

Continuing her thought, Coco said, “How could I not go through with so much conviction? You gave me a job AND you stood up for me. You had only met me this afternoon, and you showed me so much kindness! I thought changelings stole love and ate the hearts of ponies, but I've been proven wrong. Now I need to know how wrong I've been; how wrong ponies have been about your kind.”

Fang chuckled to himself. “We create love and feed on it. Stealing love is a rather crude way of putting it. The part about eating hearts is only a myth. I know it's something shown in movies, but that does not always make it true. I am glad to see you are ready to go through with this.”

"Hey, you gave me a chance with this job, so it only seems right that I return the favor.”

“That is very generous of you. Thank you.”

Generosity... the Element of Harmony associated with Rarity. Coco smiled to herself. The thought of Rarity, and her display of generosity in the face of selfishness, once again ran through Coco's mind. After all, she gave me that chance, and now I'm paying it forward. Maybe this won't be so bad... I hope.

***

A couple of hours passed in relative silence before the train reached its destination. Coco and Fang disembarked the train in silence as they made their way to the pick-up area, where they were greeted by a small carriage. The cart looked a bit rustic, the exterior looking relatively worn and tarnished, and jagged neon green stripes lined the side cart, giving the impression that this contraption had often been used before, perhaps by something - or somepony - with an eerie air about it.

“You will be riding in this,” Fang spoke as he gestured toward the cart.

“Alright...” Though she was fully intent on going through with this commission, Coco could not shake the apprehensive feeling within her. To make matters worse, the chilly evening air began to sap the heat from her as she walked around without any sort of layering. The mare quivered, from both the cold and from her nervosity, as she slowly trod over to the carriage door.

“Are you cold?” the unicorn asked as he observed Coco's adverse reactions to the night air.

“A-a l-l-little,” Coco said through chattering teeth.

Fang removed his cloak and handed it to the mare, shivering for a brief moment. “Here. This should keep you warm.”

Coco smiled as she wrapped the coat around herself. “Thank you. But what about you?”

The changeling in disguise flashed a smile, “I am more than certain that my fire-affiliated abilities will keep me warm.”

A comfortable warmth quickly spread to her body and made a subtle “mmm” sound in approval. The mare lifted a hoof under the cloak and asked, "So why do you wear one in the first place?"

"Let's just call it a fashion choice."

A train station bag boy approached the two. “Alrighty, folks, your baggage is all strapped to the top of your carriage and ready to go."

Fang turned to the colt. “Thank you.” He turned back to the carriage, opened the door and gestured Coco to enter. “You shall be riding inside the carriage alone. I must remain outside to drive us to our destination.”

“No w-worries.” Coco struggled a bit as she climbed into the carriage. After all, it was close to midnight, and she was both exhausted and nervous from the day's events. As the mare closed the door, she found herself once again enveloped by an uneasy silence. The glass windows and olden hybrid wood/metal body of the carriage proved to be suitable protection from the outside world. The velvet red cushions were quite comfortable, almost calling out to Coco to rest her head on them. Across from the mare was a mirror in which she could see her troubled and weary reflection.

A muffled sound came from outside. Wondering what it was, Coco opened the carriage door and poked her head outside. “Are you ready?” It was Fang as he shifted around in the harness at the front of the carriage. He seemed a bit restless, rearing to leave the train station and return to his kingdom as soon as possible.

“Ready as I'll ever be,” Coco responded. She pulled the door closed, and soon, the cart began to move. Street lights scattered along the dirt path's side, giving Coco a small range of vision outside her window. I wonder how long it'll take us to get to the Queen of Changelings Many other thoughts ran through the mare's minds along the way, such as where she would be assigned to stay, how she would be treated, what the place would look like, and whether or not the Queen would approve of her work. But it was about fifteen minutes before the carriage came to a complete stop. Quickly opening the door, Coco asked, “Are we there yet?”

“No, it will be a bit longer before we arrive,” Fang called out from the front of the carriage.

“Then why did we stop?” Coco was about to get out of the carriage when Fang's shadow caught her eye. As the earth pony looked out the carriage door, a pair of large and daunting wings protruded from his back, and the shadow he cast mimicked this transformation. The wings were more akin to bat wings, thin and veined and jagged, than pegasus wings, feathered and soft and fluffy. The mare was a bit startled before she remembered that her escort was a changeling, capable of hiding and altering appearance at will.

Fang turned his head toward the carriage. “My reason for stopping is not important. Just close the door and hold on tight. And do NOT open the door under ANY circumstances. It is imperative that you keep the door closed until I open it for you.”

“Okay...” What is he talking about? And why did he grow wings all of a sudden? Setting her thoughts aside, Coco did as she was told and sat back down in her seat. A quick yank pulled the cart, gaining its momentum again. It started moving slowly but hastily picked up speed. Coco stared out the carriage window as the world began to whiz by. The carriage began to rattle violently as if it were threatening to fall apart at any moment. The mare had the urge to open the door and ask her friend to slow down a bit, but she kept to the instructions she was given and bunkered down, not knowing what to expect.

Just as the cart felt like it was going to collapse altogether, its harsh vibrations suddenly stopped. In fact, to Coco, it almost felt as if there was nothing beneath the cart. No sounds could be heard outside the cart, either. No clickity-clack of wheels against loose bolts, no grinding of gravel on a dirt path, nothing - save the rushing of wind. The cream-white mare could not help but be curious as to what was going on. She took a peek through the window on her right and caught a glimpse of the world shrinking below her. Wait... SHRINKING?! Coco's eyes widened in panic as she immediately huddled back into her seat. AM I IN THE SKY?! She cautiously moved back to the window to make sure she wasn't seeing things. A dark blue cloud illuminated by moonlight drifted by to confirm that she was, indeed, in the sky. She quickly pressed herself against the back of her seat again, her body tensed in fear as she waited for the ride to end. The warmth of Fang's cloak greeted Coco and relieved some of her tension as she curled up in it. Mustering her wits, Coco scooted back over to the window to see the pale moon shine down on her. She was surprised to see the celestial body so close to her, yet out of reach as always. With the warmth of the cloak, the clarity of the moon, the serenity of the ride, and the comfort of the carriage interior, Coco finally sat down and relaxed. She wanted to get a better look at the world from her lofty height, but her exhaustion proved too much, and she soon found herself drifting to sleep. As she closed her eyes, Coco sighed in content and whispered to herself: “Maybe this isn't going to be so bad after all...”

***

Caw! Caw!

A harsh rupture sharply woke Coco from her soft slumber. The cart violently shook back and forth before finally settling down. After a few moments, the carriage door opened and a voice trailed in. “So you actually found somepony.” The voice was a bit harsh, somewhat similar to Fang's. “She looks a bit... disoriented.” Coco's world was literally upside-down as she lay with her back against the wall and hooves in the air. “I think you killed her...”

“Wha- I'm not dead!” Quickly turning over, Coco stood up and looked at the figure standing at the door. The surrounding area had enough illumination to give Coco to get a good view of the unfamiliar changeling standing outside the door.

“Forgive me for my terrible landing.” Fang's voice came from somewhere in the vicinity. He pushed aside the one standing at the door and beckoned Coco to exit the chariot. Wide awake from the sudden landing, the mare left the chariot and set foot on a slabbed stone floor. From where she stood, she could see what lit up the area so well. Lamp posts dotted the trail before her, each about a meter apart. The balls of glass emitted a light turquoise glow from its top. The necks of the lamps very much resembled tree roots as they stretched upward, gnarled and twisted, toward the beacons they housed. Coco was stunned by how hypnotic the lights were. They seemed so calming and relaxing as if intended to ease the mare's tensions.

The lights led down to a rather grandiose and haunting castle that towered high in the sky with an unsettling and eerie green glow. It was quite comparable to the hoofwork building in Manehattan... if it had a larger base and were constantly shrouded in darkness and mystery, that is. Many elements of the castle shared a similar theme with the lampposts that provided the illumination needed to properly observe it. The various images and scenes portrayed in the stained glass scattered across the face of the building were of various objects and equines, and all of them were drastically gnarled, twisted, and tormented. The castle spires trailed off into the night sky like a crooked barb, much like a root would if it grew up from the ground. The very castle itself was riddled with various ivy and moss, almost as if it was alive and conscious being capable of decorating itself so as to strike fear and dread, as a warning, into the hearts of those who stepped too far into its dangerous territory. Coco felt a similar dread, unsure of what to expect when she stepped inside, but the knowledge that she was here for a reason put her nerves at ease... if only for a brief moment.

Just as Coco was getting accustomed to this new environment, a loud buzzing sound surrounded Fang, the other changeling, and herself. The thought of an angry swarm of bees immediately flooded her mind and set her on edge, but a double-take on the situation cut her fear short as she remembered that bees would not have been active this late in the evening. The stone ground trembled as several rogue figures descended from the dark and surrounded the three of them.

“We have informed the Queen of your arrival,” spoke a voice. “Have you found a fashion designer as requested?”

Fang responded to the inquiry. “Yes, I have.”

One of the new figures, a changeling with a large slash-mark scar over his right eye, came forth and approached Coco. “We appreciate your cooperation to work for the Queen.”

“I- it's my p-pleasure,” Coco stuttered nervously.

“My name is Sea More. I will be escorting you to the Queen.” Sea More looked to Fang. “You have had a long day. I will be escorting her now. You may return to Queen Chrysalis.”

Fang sighed heavily, both in relief and out of exhaustion. “Thank you, friend.” Instead of heading off to where his next location, he came before the pony. "Forgive me, Coco, but...” Coco looked at her previous escort with a concerned look. “May I have my cloak back?”

The mare's eyes widened in realization and panic as she quickly motioned to remove the cloak. “Oh! Yes of course! Sorry...”

Fang reassured Coco as she handed the cloak back, “No need to be. No harm was done.”

Sea More beckoned to the mare. “If all your affairs are in order, please follow me.” He then turned to the figures that joined him earlier. “Guards!” Without skipping a beat, the surrounding changelings moved into a square formation behind Coco and himself. Looking back to the mare, Sea asked, “What is your name?”

“Coco Pommel.”

“Well then, Miss Pommel, shall we?” The changeling gestured her towards the castle. With all the events of the past few hours, Coco took her first few steps slowly, but soon revived her conviction and started down the grand hall with the most unlikely of companions at her side.

***

Sea More's directions inside the castle seemed a bit odd to Coco, as if there was no rhyme or reason to them. A turn here, a turn there, down a flight, up a flight, down a flight and a u-turn to another turn... so many twists and turns! It was impossible for Coco to keep track of where they were, and it didn't help that she had no idea where they began in the first place. All Coco could do to keep her mind occupied was turn her focus to the many statues and pictures that rested within each hallway through which they passed. Some of the statues were of various changelings striking rather menacing poses, some of the "statues" were actually suits of armor, and a small handful were of a larger changeling adorned with a crown-looking object. Hmm... Must be statues of their queen. Coco did not witness the events of the changeling invasion during the wedding for Princess Cadence and Shining Armor, brother to the recently-crowned Princess Twilight Sparkle, but word traveled far enough to reach her, and, based on news reports that took the city by storm AND the information given directly by the changelings she had already met, Coco made an educated guess as to just who this figure might be. She would have asked Sea More directly, but she ultimately decided against it, keeping the silence and suspense that hung in the air grow with every turn. Most of the art along the halls were of little interest. The frames were rather extravagant and looked extremely valuable, but the images themselves were, for the most part, lackluster in quality: faded, torn, blackened, and even melted, as if the life and vibrancy had been sucked from them.

Sea More's tour through the maze of halls eventually came to an end, leading to a grand hallway. A large, tattered crimson carpet paved the entire hallway in aged elegance. Changelings stood on both sides of the hallway, mirroring each other, looking straight ahead with unparalleled concentration and a spear in hoof. If not for the glowing eyes, they could have been easily mistaken for gargoyles. Each guard was also equipped with black plate armor with a green gem resting in the middle of each breastplate. A dim light emanated from each torch that lined the hallway, casting a haunting shadow from each changeling in the hall. At the end hall, two gargantuan jagged doors loomed steadfast and unmoving, obviously guarding something very important.

“Guards, dismissed!” As Sea More spoke, the changelings that were following him and Coco turned on the spot and departed from the hall. One of the guards standing in the hallway also began to take his leave until Sea More barked at him. “Not you! You stay put.” The stand-out changeling quickly squabbled back into position. “Come,” Sea More said to Coco.

She responded by timidly nodding and following his lead. As Coco neared the large double doors, she felt her nerves begin to unwind. She had gone over this situation in her mind several times, but as the hour drew near, the reality of the situation hit her full force, and she began to quiver uncontrollably. Never before this recent turn of events did Coco ever believe for a moment that she would make a dress for royalty, let alone meet any, especially not the Changeling Queen. About halfway to the door, Coco finally broke free of her unnerving fear long enough to ask, “So... what do you do around here, Sea More?”

Holding his head high, the changeling replied, “I am the combat instructor for the Queen's army. I am the best dualist our kind has seen in generations, so it is only fitting that I'd be assigned such an important role. I would be more than willing to give you a short demonstration once your business with the Queen is finished if such an offer appeals to you.”

Coco began to feel the pressure of meeting the Changeling Queen take effect again, so it was difficult for her to get out much more than a simple "that's nice" in response.

Sea More looked a bit aggravated that his impressive skills, or claims thereto, were dismissed so quickly, but he did not let the mare's words dampen his spirits for long. “Indeed. It is thanks to the Queen that I have been blessed with such an incredible honor.”

Coco continued to pay little mind to Sea More's hot air and turned her attention to the guards in the hallway, all of whom were either rolling their eyes or pointing at Sea More's back, mocking his boasting.

It didn't take long for the two to reach the large, spiky seal that secured the two massive doors together. Taking flight, Sea More flew up to the large left door handle and began pulling on it. But for some reason, neither the handle nor the door would budge. Pulling harder, the changeling yanked on the handle again, but to no avail. The doors stood resolute. “Confounded doors!”

Coco looked to the ground in meditative silence when a small sign caught her eye. “To open the door, push.” Heeding the instructions written on the parchment, Coco put her hoof on the right door and gave it a good push. Surprisingly, it took very little effort to get the door open. Almost willingly, the door slowly rumbled open into a much larger, and nearly pitch-black, chamber.

"At last!" Sea More shouted in triumph, beads of sweat rolling down his face. He quickly looked down to descend when he noticed Coco standing near the door with her hoof extended. His jaw dropped. “How did you open this door?!” Sea More queried in exhaustion as he slowly made his way back to the floor.

Coco simply pointed to the sign resting on the wall. “The sign says push.”

“Oh...” Sea More blushed in embarrasment.

A small snicker emanated from behind them. Sea More's ears perked up. “Better watch out, Sea More.” The changeling whipped around to see who was so boldly taunting him, but could not properly discern the culprit amid the two rows of nearly identical figures. “This earth pony just might take your title as the Best Dualist.” Low pitched laughs echoed through the hallway as Sea More's face reddened with abashment and outrage.

“SHUT UP!” Sea More's voice rang through the halls for several seconds and immediately dampened the laughter. Coco stifled laughter herself, but could not help give off a small smirk. Sea More caught the faint facial expression in corner of his eye. His head sharply turned towards her. "This is NO laughing matter. Or smiling matter."

Coco looked away. “Sorry, but it was just so... amusing, I guess.”

Sea More snorted in derision. "Amusing or not, they are soldiers and guards, and are to be at attention at all times, NOT cracking smart jokes and breaking the-”

“SILENCE!” A commanding voice echoed from beyond the doors. “Enter now, pony!”

Sea More's anger quickly dissipated as his attention turned to the grand chambers just past the doors. "I suggest you obey her summons, Coco.”

Coco froze in place as her nerves took control of her muscles. Try as she might, the mare could not get herself moving. The voice rang from beyond the darkness again. “Would somepony get her in here? It is late and I would like some rest!”

Sea More quickly answered the call. “Yes, my Queen!” He turned to Coco and whispered, “Forgive me for what I must do, but the Queen has given me direct orders, and I cannot ignore them.” Using levitation magic, the changeling lifted the earth pony and briskly transported her into the expansive room. Coco began to flail about in the hopes that she might break free of the spell's effects, but her efforts quickly proved futile and she simply slumped over mid-flight as she abandoned her attempts at resistance. Within a few moments, the mare found herself touching solid ground again, struggling to keep her balance.

“Close the door.” The voice from before was now only a few meters away; far too close for Coco's comfort.

“Yes, my Queen!” Sea More obeyed the voice as he used his magic to slowly swing the large doors shut. Almost instinctively, Coco pivoted on the spot to watch in horror as the remaining light in the room gave way to a shroud of total darkness. Coco cowered under the concealment of the blanket of total darkness as she prepared for the worst.

“Welcome...” A pair of green, sinister eyes burned through the darkness.

“EEP!” Coco shrieked as the baleful eyes locked with hers. What have I gotten myself into?!

Beauty Explaining Itself

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Who You Work For
Ch2

Poor Coco Pommel was rooted on the spot, huddled and trembling, all alone, as she braced for something wretched and wicked to jump out of the darkness and do away with her. Her mind fabricated several different nightmarish shapes and figures for whatever waited in the pitch-black room. A two-tailed changeling demon, a six-legged fire-breathing monstrosity... The more she thought of what could be out there, the more violently Coco shook. The cream mare laid there, with only the figments of her imagination to keep her company, for what seemed like ages when a familiar and commanding voice suddenly snapped her out of her fear-induced stupor.

"No, no. This lighting does no good for any of us. As appealing as it may be, this darkness sets a terrible atmosphere when it comes to proper introductions for our guests of honor."

Coco panicked as she came back to reality. Coco, you fool! Is this any way to conduct yourself in the presence of the Queen of Changelings? Cowering on the floor is no way to make introductions with such an important pony! You're the guest of honor; act like it! Slowly, but surely, she stood back up and looked around to see if she could make out what lay in store for her. Unfortunately, the lack of light in the room made it impossible to distinguish anything, save the pair of menacing green eyes that remained suspended and motionless in the veil of darkness.

The prominent voice cut through the silence once again as it clearly emanated from the direction of the soul-piercing eyes. “Lights!” A sphere of brilliant yellowish-white light immediately appeared and dispersed the darkness... and all too well. The sudden change in illumination briefly blinded Coco and forced her to wince in pain as she tried to let her eyes adjust. “TOO BRIGHT, YOU IDIOT!” the voice boomed again.

Another familiar voice quickly followed. “Forgive me, my Queen,” it said hastily. Coco cautiously opened her eyes as the darkness settled back into the room.

The harsh voice returned. “Light the room with your green flame. It makes me feel more assertive.” The room was once again illuminated as soft green flames materialized from two torch stands that towered over Coco. While they could not reveal the entirety of the room, the flames proved bright enough to uncover something much darker than the black shroud that enveloped the room moments ago.

The floor itself was cobblestone, identical to the other parts of the castle Coco had already seen. A broad, silk, dark teal carpet swathed a path through the room. The carpet followed its path up a small flight of stairs and came to a rest at a jagged and rather nasty-looking throne carved out of stone and riddled with small divots. Sitting upon the throne was a changeling, but this one was different. Firstly, it was the first female changeling that Coco had ever seen, or at least distinguish. Second, the changeling was much greater in stature than the others. Thirdly, the changeling was adorned with a crown roughly resembling something akin to a tube-like flower. Based on all she had been told, Coco could only deduce one possibility as to who this being was. Sitting before her was none other than Queen Chrysalis. Coco's heart sank as she began to grasp the gravity of the situation and understand why the Queen was so greatly feared and respected by her subjects. She began to look away to avoid Chrysalis's cold stare when a familiar sight caught her attention. To the Queen's left sat a changeling unicorn armed with dark plate armor and a bared fang.

It's Fang! Coco's spirits lifted as she realized why the voice from before was so familiar. She could not help but give a small smile knowing that a friendly face was there to keep her company.

But her smile vanished as Queen Chrysalis' chilling voice filled the room again. “Much better. Yes, now I have a proper view of our guest." Coco turned her attention back to the Queen, who had her eyes locked on the frightened and pale mare as she sat majestically upon her dark marble throne. "Hello, my dear. I've been expecting you for some time now.”

Coco shivered as she timidly responded. “H-hello, C-Chrysalis.”

“Queen Chrysalis,” Fang interrupted.

The Queen glared angrily at the changeling. “Keep quiet!” she shouted as she used her magic to chuck a small stone at her guard's helmet, causing it to make a hollow “tong” sound. “When you stand beside me, you do not speak.” Fang simply nodded in acknowledgment. As she looked over to Coco again, the Queen gave a subtle smile. Not a sinister smile that would invoke fear, but rather one of relief, as if a great burden had been lifted from her shoulders. Chrysalis continued, “Thank you for taking my offer. You have no idea what kind of change you will be making here in due time.”

“W... what do you mean?” Coco stammered, confused by the Queen's statement.

Chrysalis rose from her seat and began to walk towards Coco. “As you may have already learned, my personal guard here has been on a quest to find me a pony worthy of designing a dress for me.” She gestured to Fang as she mentioned him. “And you have been hoof-picked to be the one to take up this task.” As she came within legs' distance of Coco, the Queen reached out and put her hoof under the mare's chin. Coco began to shiver uncontrollably again. “Oh, don't be afraid. We won't bring any harm to you.”

“B-but why...? Why do you need me? I mean, why bring in somepony from so far away? Don't you have any guards or servants that can make the dress for you?”

“Let me show you.” The Queen turned and faded into the darkness as she walked back towards her throne. Suddenly, a small crash broke the silence. “Who put this blasted vase in my Hall of Power!?”

Keeping his head low, Fang replied, “You did, my Queen. You personally requested that it be mov-”

A faint glow of magic pierced the darkness as it illuminated another small rock. A small whoosh as the rock zoomed towards Fang's helmet, where it bounced off and made a small, hollow tinging sound. "Didn't I tell you to keep quiet?”

“Yes, but you said to keep quiet as long as I stand at your side.” A large piece of rubble suddenly appeared from the darkness and floated through the air. It slowly made its way to Fang, stopped above him for a moment, and crashed back down to the ground, causing the poor changeling to collapse. Only a head could be seen poking out from the bottom of the rubble. Fang grumbled as he tried to make the best of his situation.

Coco began to walk over to her friend and help out, but a large green flame burst to life in front of her and blocked her forward advance. “Do not try to aid him," the Queen said sharply. "His arrogance has reaped its rewards. Helping him at this moment would only further encourage his rude behavior. Let him suffer for his insubordination.” The cream mare gulped and slowly nodded as she helplessly watched Fang struggle and squirm under the huge chunk of rubble. "As for you, my dear..." Out of the corner of her eye, Coco noticed Chrysalis slowly emerge from the darkness. She watched in amazement as the Queen, now garbed in a beautiful dress, returned to her throne. "This is why you have been summoned." Coco approached the Queen to get a better view of the outstanding hoofiwork. A light turquoise fabric covered Chrysalis from the torso down as it draped over her body. The fabric went all the way up to the midsection of the queen's neck. A golden necklace adorned with a brilliant sapphire rested where the dress cut off. The fringing itself stopped Coco in her tracks; the entire dress was lined with a tastefully fluffy white lining which gave it a unique "royal cloak" air. The entirety of the turquoise fabric was lined with a transparent silk, giving the main body of the dress the element of "hidden beauty".

Coco could not help but circle the Queen several times to fully appreciate the amount of time and effort put into this marvelous work of beauty. “I've never seen anything like this! It's beautiful!” Coco said in haste and excitement. “The silky fabric, the fur outline... oh, and this gem! Such a lovely compliment of royalty and mystery.” Chrysalis stood proudly as her dress was inspected. Coco slowly made one last pass around the Queen in silent bewilderment before bringing up a valid point. “This dress is incredibly lovely just the way it is. Why would you need my help?”

“It is indeed lovely, but it will not suffice for the event I have in mind." Chrysalis gracefully walked back to her throne and seated herself comfortably. She used her magic to lift the rubble off of Fang. He grunted as he stood up and stretched a bit to get the kink out of his back. "No, this dress must be fit for Canterlot royalty. You see, my dear, I require a dress for the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“But how come you need... wait." Coco's eyes widened. "Did you just say-”

“Yes, I did," Chrysalis answered irritably. "THE Grand Galloping Gala.”

The cream-colored mare beamed. “Wow! It must be such an honor to be invited to-”

With seemingly no provocation, the Queen suddenly shot an angry glare at Coco. “I WAS NOT INVITED!” Her outburst caused Coco to jump back and shiver in fear again.

“P-please don't yell,” Coco whimpered apprehensively.

Chrysalis's fury blazed within her like a wildfire, and her guest's small request only fueled the fire. “HOW DARE YOU! I AM THE QUEEN OF CHANGELINGS! I GIVE THE ORDERS, NOT YOU!” Her eyes glowed with a burning green aura as wisps of energy trailed through the air.

“My Queen!” Fang barked in the midst of Chrysalis' outrage. The Queen violently rose from her seat, teeth bared, as she began to move the giant chunk of rubble, poised to crush her guard again. Fang quickly spoke in an attempt to alleviate her anger, hoping that his words would save him from another backbreaking experience. “Please maintain your composure. You would not want your subjects OR our guest to see you erupt in a fit of rage. We understand your pain, my Queen. We are doing our best to aid you in your current conundrum.”

Coco was stunned by both fear and bewilderment from what she had just witnessed. Pain? What is he talking about? And why did she yell like that?

The Queen paused for a moment to prevent herself from doing anything irrational while her emotions were so unruly, and took the time to calm herself. Slowly, but surely, she regained her composure and her temper subsided. She sat back down in her throne and gently lowered the rubble back at its original spot on the ground before continuing. “I was not invited,” she answered in her naturally calm tone.

It took Coco a bit of strength to swallow the lump in her throat that choked her up. “I-if you weren't invited, then... how will you be able to get in?”

Chrysalis smiled slyly. “I had one of my guards disguise himself and infiltrate the castle to steal a few tickets. How do you think I was able to carry out our little... scheme in Canterlot years ago?”

Coco's mind flashed back to the reported events of that day as the Queen began talking about the incident. “Oh, that's right. The entire thing made the headlines back in Manehattan way back when."

The Queen's smile quickly vanished and was replaced by an unpleasant grimace. "How charming. I'm so glad that our drastic failure of a plan was broadcast across all of Equestria... just as I hoped was the case," she remarked sarcastically.

"Oops." Coco blushed and darted her eyes about as she realized she had confirmed the Queen's and the changelings' fears. "Sorry. I didn't know that you didn't know that news had... never mind. I still don't understand why you've brought me here."

“Has it not been made clear already? You are here to make a dress for me," Chrysalis replied with slight exasperation. "Do not make me repeat myself again.”

“Could you be more specific?”

The Queen put her hoof to her face as her patience grew thin. “Must you question everything?”

“I just want to know...” The mare shifted around uncomfortably, hoping that her choice of words and questions would not cause another argument.

Chrysalis snorted in frustration, but eventually gave in to the request. “Very well.” She glanced over to Fang, who firmly nodded in agreement, and turned her attention back to Coco. "There are several reasons as to why you have been brought here. Firstly, this dress, while beautiful, would never pass in the eyes of an expert dressmaker where you live. You see, this dress is not made from 'proper' fabric, such as the cotton thread you so commonly use."

Coco tilted her head in confusion. "Wait... then what did you use for your dress?" she pondered aloud.

"The dress you see here is made from the silk webbing that our spiders produce.”

Coco's rather shy disposition disappeared in the blink of an eye. “Silk webbing fabric?!” Chrysalis remained unfazed by the mare's outburst, but Fang could not help but jump a bit in surprise. “That's incredible! And fairly impossible, speaking from experience!”

The Queen chuckled to herself. “It's a rather simple task for us. I take it that none of your kind has the prowess required to use this silk for fabrics?”

Coco was still taken aback by this revelation. Her excitement got the best of her again as her mouth moved at incredible speeds, hardly giving her a chance to breathe. “No, never! Well, not the techniques, but it's been proven time and again just how versatile the stuff is! Spider webbing is delicate - as it is strong, and it's incredibly adhesive in its raw form, as you probably already know. And it's because of this that this stuff would be great for fabric, both in theory - AND practicality, as you've shown me. It's just that so many designers have spent years on end trying to make a fabric out of silk spider webbing, but nopony has ever managed to find a way to properly work with the stuff without destroying it - in the process, and every effort to use it in fabric has left each craftspony emptyhoofed. And now here I am, a witness to the result of a properly prepared batch of silk spider webbing used as fabric for a beautiful creation!” She allowed herself a moment to properly catch her breath once everything on her mind had been spoken.

Chrysalis and Fang both sat in stunned silence as they tried to fathom just how this mare's mouth was able to move at such incredible speeds with such little need for breath. "Your capacity for extended periods of speech frighten me, dear," the Queen said worriedly. "Nevertheless, this dress will not work. In the same way, your kind cannot work with silk spider webbing, we changelings cannot work with cotton and wool. This is only one of several reasons why I need a designer such as yourself.”

“How's that? Not being able to work with cotton, that is?” Coco asked.

“As changelings, our bodies are covered with tiny hairs that allow us to stick to surfaces and materials much better than other beings, very similar to the nature of insects' bodies. Your kind cannot properly work with spider webbing because you lack these hairs, and we cannot properly manipulate other fabrics because we are covered in them. These hairs, in conjunction with a thin layer of oil that covers our bodies, allow us to work with silk webbing with relative ease. Adversely, they make working with cotton a nightmare. It is not that these other fabrics are too fragile, but they simply stick to us all too well. However, these hairs do not limit us to sticking to fabrics alone. We are quite capable of clinging to many kinds of surfaces and walls, such as the stone walls that account for a large portion of this castle's structure. I think it is only appropriate that you are treated with a visual aid.” Chrysalis rose from her throne and strolled over to the wall directly behind. She placed one hoof on the wall, then another, until all four hooves were off the ground and firmly planted on the wall. Coco's jaw dropped at this gravity-defying display. The Queen steadily scaled the stone surface for a good fifteen feet, stopped, and turned back around to speak with the mare watching in astonishment below. “Do you see what I mean?”

Coco slowly nodded, still completely floored by the demonstration. Just like an insect...

Chrysalis buzzed her wings, detached herself from the wall with little effort, and slowly descended back down to the ground. “Now that you have witnessed our ability to adhere to a slippery stone surface with ease, try to imagine our frustration working with tiny strands of cotton.”

“I don't think I can," the cream mare said in a hushed tone. "But... wow. Being able to climb up walls so easily... That sure is something.”

Holding her head high, Chrysalis said, “We are a unique type of creature, and we are proud to be what we are.” Even Fang held his head high and puffed his chest out.

Coco grinned. “At least you have a good sense of pride.”

“We need it. Without it, there would be no will to survive. This brings me to my second point involving your presence here..." The Queen closed her eyes in brief meditation as she contemplated how to go about with the anticipated discussion. She slowly opened her eyes again and began to speak. “As you may know, we feed off of love.” The changeling's horn glowed softly, and a rather hefty and extravagant frame floated in from the darkness. She levitated the frame over to Coco to let the mare get a decent view of the lovely waterfall depicted within the frame. “Love comes in many forms. Cute and colorful, like siblings and young children who grow up together, learn together, and get a feel for the world together; strong and steadfast, like everlasting friends who understand each other better than they understand themselves and stand by each other, even in the darkest of times; romantic and passionate, like blooming lovers who wish for nothing more than to share their laughter, sorrow, and love with each other and face every day as an unstoppable team; and even in dedication, such as the dedication put in this incredibly detailed work of art.” Chrysalis drew the painting back to herself, aimed her hole-riddled horn at the painting, and blasted the beautiful works, frame and all, with a concentrated beam of malevolent green energy. As the beam remained tethered to the frame, the once-beautiful art slowly lost its life and color. Within moments, the picture was nothing more than a black, faded and indescribable image.

The Queen smiled as she discretely licked her lips. “Quite a delectable treat.” She set the frame down by her throne and continued, “This is just one way of obtaining love.” Coco could hardly utter a single word before Chrysalis held her hoof up to silence the mare. “If any sort of love is put into an object during its creation, we are capable of draining that love. The more effort and love put into making an object, the more sustenance we can obtain. Such actions have a rather negative impact on those objects, as you have seen, but we do what we must. Surely you must have witnessed such an event already on your way here with my esteemed guard.” Chrysalis subtly tilted her head in Fang's direction.

"So that's why Fang wanted me to put a little more effort and love in his brownie and coffee that I made," Coco thought aloud. "That also explains the green glow from his horn -"

Chrysalis raised her hoof again to interrupt the cream mare's tangent. “There is one more way we can obtain the love we need: a direct source of affection and love. No middle pony, no feeding off others' love... no, we earn it for ourselves. Such a method requires the use of a disguise and is no easy feat, but it certainly pays off, and very well, in the end. A day's worth of affection earned in such a way from one pony can sustain a fully grown changeling for a week. Imagine the amount of affection that can be harvested from a crowd of ponies!”

Coco connected the dots in her mind. "So this is where I come in to the picture? With the dress that I'm guessing is going to be made specially for you? With love and affection?"

“Correct. I want you to design a dress for the Grand Galloping Gala far more exquisite and luxurious than anypony has ever seen so that I may disguise myself and bathe in the attention and admiration of everypony who attends the event. You must also be sure to make it with the utmost care, love and affection, as if you were pouring your soul into its creation. It is not something we changelings can do ourselves. This is why you are here. Your skills vastly outshine those of even the best of my kin's dressmakers, and you have special properties that we changelings do not possess.” the Queen stated. She stared at Coco rather intently as she concluded the brief summary of her plan. "I imagine this clears every question up for you, does it not?"

The cream mare gave an awkward smile. “Well... not exactly. There are a few thing still bothering me.”

The Queen rolled her eyes in annoyance. “Such as...?”

“I mean... I don't mean to say that you will, but... will you be invading Canterlot on the night of the Grand Galloping Gala?” Coco's voice squeaked a bit as she finished her question.

“No.” To Coco's surprise, Chrysalis's reply was rather calm. "There is no plan for taking such drastic measures, and I would prefer it stay that way."

The mare slouched her body in relief. Oh, thank goodness!

“You need not worry. If your hoofiwork is as extraordinary as it has been made out to be, then there will be no need to bring harm to anypony... not this time...” Chrysalis' eyes began to burn again, when her eyes met Fang's. She clenched her lids shut and asked, “What other pointless queries occupy your mind?”

“Oh! Right. Let's see... Is... there a particular theme for the Gala?”

Chrysalis scowled. "As a matter of fact, there is," she said through gritted teeth. "The theme for this year's Gala is centered around..." She paused for a moment to steel herself for what she had to say next. “...Princess Cadence and Shining Armor.” The very names of the two ponies responsible for her downfall in Canterlot burned like acid in her mouth. “In celebration of their anniversary AND the anniversary of their triumph over us. However, as much as I adore the idea of returning the favor of an expulsion from Canterlot, it is not in my interests to cause any trouble, but rather to secure the attention of the guests of honor and the attendees, as I mentioned before."

”Oh." Coco frowned... and suddenly gasped as every implication and associated conclusion of this news hit her like giant pieces of rubble. "Oh! Oh, dear! I'm so sorry! Now I see why this whole ordeal is causing so much emotional turmoil for you."

“It will prove to be less taxing on my 'emotions' if you can find it in your range of self-control, limited as it may be, to KEEP YOUR BADGERING TO A MINIMUM!" The Queen's eyes began to burn again as her voice reached a thunderous volume. Almost instinctively, Coco shied away from her in response. Chrysalis noticed the cream mare's behavior and was immediately forced to remember the outcome of her last outburst. She looked again to Fang, as if expecting some sort of answer or explanation for Coco's behavior, but all her guard and in-the-moment adviser had to offer was a disapproving shake of the head. The Queen took a few deep breaths and allowed herself to continue once her levelheadedness and calm voice returned. "However, as it stands, the most pressing matter is the assurance of a proper dress for the Gala. Neither my emotional ties in the matter nor your persistent questioning is of importance in its outcome.”

Coco carefully approached the Queen again, still rather jumpy from her repeated behavior. Well, now I know which of her buttons not to push. I mean, my goodness! I knew she was harsh and commanding, but this sudden sort of frenzy seems rather out of character, even with the given circumstances “I suppose y-you have a point. B-but can I a-ask one more thing?”

“Do you ever stop talking?”

“I just want to b-be informed... I just got here, after all.”

“NO! No more questions!" Chrysalis leaned back in her throne and tilted her head back in exhaustion. "It is extremely late, and your previous questions have completely worn me out.”

Despite the warning, Coco could not keep her question bottled up. “Who gave you this idea to go to the Grand Galloping Gala?” Chrysalis paid no mind to the mare's question. She simply rose from her seat and made her way to the back of the room in silence.

“Sea More gave her the idea,” Fang blurted out. "He believed that it would be beneficial if the Que - OOF!" In a split second, the guard found himself beneath the giant piece of rubble once more. "Why me?"

The Queen stopped in place for a moment to retort harshly. “Do not answer for me.” She shook her head and softly commented to herself. "He just never learns..."

Coco looked towards the Queen and Fang and asked, “Isn't Sea More the master duelist that gave me the tour?”

Chrysalis turned on the spot and stared Coco down with another burning glare and hissed, “Silence! I said no more questions!”

Fang butted in again. “Indeed, he is.” The rubble was briefly lifted off of the changeling's body before it crashed right back down. “AH! I think you broke something!”

Chrysalis snorted in frustrated satisfaction. “Now, if you don't mind...” - she turned back around - “...I am off to my quarters for some much-needed rest. SEA MORE!”

The doors that led in from the hall burst open. Light flooded into the room and a lone changeling stood at the doorway. “Yes, my Queen!”.

“Take our guest to her chambers.” With one last glow of her horn, Chrysalis lifted the rubble off of Fang and hurled it into the back left corner of the room. "And have Inferno Fang here assist you."

“Th-thank you, my Queen...” The large-fanged changeling slowly stood up and bowed, grimacing in pain as he did so.

The Queen refused to acknowledge his courtesy and simply continued walking. “Tomorrow, you will begin making my dress. Think well and hard on what you need to do. Do not disappoint me...” And with that, she vanished into the darkness.

“Come!” Sea Moor's beckoning voice echoed through the throne room. "I shall show you to your room." Coco hurried over to join him in front of the doorway. "You are required to join us, Fang. Walk it off. You'll be fine." Fang slowly made his way towards the others, aching with each step, and used his magic to seal the chamber doors behind him. The three grouped up and made their way down the grand halls with Sea More in the lead.

The cream mare warily looked back over her shoulder. “The Queen kind of scares me...”

“Don't worry, she won't hurt you,” Sea More said reassuringly.

“Really?" Coco asked nervously. "She seemed rather eager to use that giant piece of rubble as 'positive reinforcement' on Fang.”

“Well, you are a valuable asset to her endeavors at the moment. I doubt that she would try to harm the one trying to help her.”

“Even she is rather eager to release her frustration on her guards and subjects, as she's clearly demonstrated tonight,” Fang grumbled as he limped forward.

“That's because you don't shut up,” Sea More commented absentmindedly.

“Fair enough. However, it does not keep me from my duties to the Queen.”

Sea More nodded. “True, true. Anyways...” The changeling looked over to Coco. “Your chambers are not too far down the halls. The room is actually quite cozy.”

“A-alright, that's good to hear.” There were still questions dancing around in Coco's head, but she decided to keep them to herself for the time being and follow the changelings' lead in a rather uneasy silence.

"Indeed." Sea More thought aloud, “Anyways, I'm glad the Queen finally swept the cobwebs out of her ears and decided to listen to me for once. This will certainly be an interesting turn of events...”

***

The three continued down the halls for a few minutes, navigating the twists, turns, and corners and passing several more statues and paintings, each with their own story and signs of age along the way. Coco kept to herself while Fang and Sea More discussed the various events of the day. As the three turned down a short hallway, Coco caught sight of a rather old door, banded in metal and cracked and peeling at the edges.

The group approached the end of the hallway when Sea More suddenly stopped and turned around to Coco. The changeling gestured toward the door. "These are the chambers that Queen Chrysalis has assigned to you."

“So this is where I will be staying?”

“Correct. All of your baggage is already inside.”

Coco peeked into the dark room. All she could properly make out with the light from the hall was a rather tarnished and tattered bed. The rest of the room was concealed by darkness, save a corner of the room illuminated by a small sliver of moonlight pouring in from behind a curtain. "It looks rather... homey?"

Trying to make haste, Sea More quickly called out, “Well, good night to you, Miss Pommel. Have a good night's rest,” and he and Fang turned around and made their way back into the halls.

Coco pulled her head out of the doorway. “W-wait!” she shouted. The changelings flinched and halted. “Umm... Fang?”

Fang cautiously turned around. “Hmm?”

Coco skittered over to Fang. She slowly wrapped her hooves around her friend and gave him a small hug. “Thank you...” she whispered softly. "For everything."

"M-my pleasure," the changeling stammered.

The two stood motionless, eyes locked, unsure of what to do or say. Sea More hesitantly spoke up to break the tension. "Shall we... all get some rest now? Long day and whatnot..." Coco and Fang immediately turned bright red with embarrassment and gave each other a last quick 'goodbye' before heading off in opposite directions. “Good night,” Sea More called out one last time. He glanced over at Fang and noticed something odd about the way his friend walked. “No more limping, I see. I'm guessing that you decided to use the love she gave you to heal yourself, then?” Fang pressed forward in silence, not daring to meet his friend's gaze.

Coco rushed into the room, quickly slammed the door behind her, and hopped on the bed, which turned out to be a much softer landing than expected. She stared at the ceiling motionlessly. The cream mare wriggled around a bit as she silently tried to contemplate exactly how she would go about with the Queen's dress, hoping to devise at least one solid plan of action for the task ahead, but exhaustion from her incredibly eventful day finally caught up with her, and she slowly drifted off to sleep.

Understanding Coldheartedness

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Who you Work for
Ch3

The soft morning illuminated the circular room as Coco Pommel rested with ease. When her conscious naturally woke up, her mind drifted back to her experiences from the previous day: her tiresome journey; the quality time she spent with her new friend, Fang, and the small moment they shared before parting ways for the evening... and the instructions she was given by Queen Chrysalis. Uh oh, I haven't taken any time to go over patterns and designs for the Queen's dress!... Well, maybe I'll get some ideas during breakfast. Eager to face the day and her assignment with confidence, Coco blinked a few times to adjust to the sunrise and scrambled out of bed. She took a few moments to stretch her legs, walked over to the drapes and pulled them back to let her and the room properly bask in the illumination and warmth of the sun's rays and to get a better look at the room.

The bed itself was directly in the center of the circular room, which measured about fifty feet in diameter and seventy feet in height. On one side of the room were piles and piles of fabric, each sorted out by color and shade. On the opposite side rested two antique wooden tables with varying seamstress's tools. An equally antique, yet relatively standard, sewing machine rested on one table, while needles and thread spools of varying size and colors were strewn about on the other. Directly across from the door stood Coco and the giant twelve-foot-tall window that wrapped around a quarter of the room. A small handle was fastened to the center pane; the windowed door itself appeared to lead out to a balcony that extended no more than eight feet out from the base of the building. Far beyond the balcony lie a snowy mountain range, as gray and dreary as the castle itself, but far more stony and daunting. The aged drapes Coco moved aside were nearly identical in dimensions to the windows they recently veiled. At least the Queen knows to properly treat her guests.

With nothing else to do, the mare walked over to the foot of her bed to begin unpacking her luggage as she went over the Queen's dress in her mind. However, as Coco began to pick her belongings up off the ground, a loud rapping at the door broke her train of thought. She dropped her bag and walked over to open the door.

A bespectacled changeling with a perpetual squint stood waiting at the door. “You are awake. Excellent,” the changeling blared. Coco yelped and jumped back a bit at the changeling's startling introduction. "The Queen has ordered me to check up on you for the morning. You being awake has already saved me a step."

Coco's voice squeaked. “Umm... good morning, Mister...?”

“Snackrifice. You may address me as Snack for short.” He grinned, revealing his sharp fangs. “Are you well acquainted with your room?”

“Aside from the bed looking worn out....” Coco looked behind her and looked at the room. “This room is quite homey. Even the bed is incredibly comfortable, despite its appearance. Thank you for asking.”

Snack looked Coco up and down. “To be honest, we are not accustomed to having ponies like you staying in our hive. Lucky for us, Sea More proved to be incredibly helpful in creating a comfortable place for you to stay.”

“Oh, is Sea More the local expert on furnishings and interior decoration? I would never have guessed that he'd-”

“Not important!” the changeling barked as he turned his head. A weapon shaft suddenly crashed down on his head. “Ow!”

“Brother, there is no need to be so rude to our guest. She had to deal with the Queen last night. She has had her fair share of raised voices for a good long while.” A familiar voice carried through the room.

“Moreover, she is a VIP, brought to our abode by orders of Queen Chrysalis herself! Do NOT be curt with her!” A second, equally familiar voice joined the conversation.

Coco leaned forward to try and find the voices accompanying Snackrifice. “Who's with you, Snack?” she asked.

“Guess,” the second voice called out. Coco poked her head out into the hall to find Sea More and Inferno Fang standing at the doorway.

Fang wielded a scythe in his hoof, the blade angled like his long tooth. He smiled at the sight of the cream mare. “Ah, good morning, Coco! Glad to see you're up and about. Pardon Snack's intrusion. He certainly means well, but he can be rather blunt sometimes. It is in the nature of a changeling guard to be formal and proper with duties, but Snack can be rather... impulsive in his execution, almost to a fault.” He derisively looked towards Snackrifice, who turned away and pouted with embarrassment.

“Indeed," Sea More interjected. "In any case, the rest of the crew has been discussing your arrival with... fervor, shall we say. It might do you well to join us some time.”

Coco smiled brightly. “Of course! I might need a map of this place, though. I'm pretty sure I'd easily get lost. Anyways, good morning, you three.” She trotted over to Fang and gave him a small hug.

“Oh! Umm... thank you.” He lightly closed his eyes as he absorbed the energy from the mare's affectionate motion.

Snack frowned. "Hey, come on now, where's mine?" A flash of metal and wood, and Fang's weapon shaft violently connected with Snack's head in the same spot. The bespectacled changeling grabbed his head in agony. "Oy, ease up! You might give me a concussion!"

“You just ate,” Fang snapped as he lowered his weapon. “Complain again, and the next strike WILL cause some degree of brain damage. Maybe even use my blade if it extream measures comes about.”

Unfazed by the threat, Snack pushed his way past his fellow guards. “Whatever. Can we just give her what we came for?”

“Ah, yes!” Sea More said hastily. “Our apologies for letting this petty squabble interrupt your morning routine, Coco.”

Coco lightly waved her hoof and smiled. “Oh, don't worry. I just woke up. And it shouldn't take me too long to unpack.”

“Excellent," Fang commented. "Well, would you like to have breakfast first? We brought you a small trolley to suit whatever taste in food you may have.”

Just hearing the word “breakfast” made Coco grab her belly as it silently grumbled. “I think breakfast sounds lovely.”

An audible snicker quickly followed. “So do I,” Snack remarked, smirking at Coco. “Maybe a 'lovely' kiss from our guess would help my insatiable appetite?” The mare quickly turned red with embarrassment and hid her face. Fang and Sea More furiously glared at Snack as they poised to convene on the changeling's head. He quickly retaliated and tried to amend his actions. "Alright, alright, I'll stop! No need to get upset! Or aggressive."

Sea More stormed over to Snack, right up in his face, and growled in a low voice, “I have painstakingly worked my tail off - put forth so much effort - in convincing the Queen that she should have somepony make a dress for her so that she may go to the Grand Galloping Gala and obtain the love we need without causing any trouble. I'll see to it that nothing and nopony ruins it, no matter the cost.” Sea More turned his attention to Fang. “You keep your brother in check and away from Coco. The less we jeopardize this operation, the better.”

“Should you be taking this so seriously?" Fang questioned his friend in a hushed tone. "It IS rather rude to treat Coco as he did, but is it truly necessary to be so personal about dealing with him?”

“If the only infallible way to stockpile our food supply is to ensure that the Queen can attend the Gala without a need to resort to hostility, then yes, it is absolutely necessary that I be harsh.”

Coco quietly stood in the doorway during the whole exchange, positively confused about what was going on. Stockpiling the food supply? Sea More's tireless efforts to convince the Queen? Should I even ask? Too many questions had been raised in her mind, and they all began to make her head spin. Hoping to ease the tension and her headache, Coco piped up asking, “Er, not to interrupt your... bonding time, but you said you brought me some food, right? My stomach is starting to protest rather noisily.” A low gurgling emanated from her belly right on cue.

Sea More took a deep breath and pleasantly replied, “Indeed. The trolley is just around the corner. Let me retrieve it.” A moment later, the changeling returned with a silver cart piled with various fruits, salads, and pastries. The sight and smell of the entrées proved too powerful for Coco; her mouth began to water uncontrollably. "I hope the food provided here will befit your preferences."

Wow! Coco was speechless. The degree of courtesy and graciousness that the changelings had already shown was not something she had witnessed often back home, and certainly not something she had expected to see here. “How did you get all this?”

“We planned ahead to make sure that our guest, whoever that turned out to be, would get the proper nutrition and collected these in advance,” Fang replied.

“Oh, okay. Well, I didn't know you guys had your own produce and bakery, considering that it sounds like you feed exclusively on lo-" Coco suddenly paused. "Wait, what do you mean 'collected'?" She quickly covered her mouth with a hoof in shock. "You're not trying to say you stole all this, are you?!”

“W...well, we don't exactly have a way to g-grow our own food," Sea More stuttered. "As you stated, our only source of... nutrition, if you will, is love. This was the only way to ensure that you would be properly fed as well.” Sea More's head hung low in remorse for helping with the dishonest deed, but the same could not be said for Snack or Fang. “But now is not the time to dwell on past transgressions. You seem to have settled in quite well, and your breakfast has been delivered safely. Your morning check-in is complete, so it is time for us to depart for now.”

Before any of the three had a chance to properly leave, Coco quickly jumped out into the hall. “W-wait!” Her outburst stopped the guards in their tracks. “I have a few questions I wanted to ask.”

Sea More sighed. “I'm sorry, Coco, but we must attend to our daily routines at once. The Queen is quite a stickler for punctuality.”

“Well, what if I need something?” the mare asked.

“There will be a guard standing outside this door at all times. Ask him if you need anything. I don't mean to be so rude and impatient, but we must be going. We're behind schedule as is. I wish you good day, Coco.” Sea More and Snack took their leave and vanished behind a corner in the hallway, but Fang did not budge.

"Wow, bringing a pony all the way from Manehattan! I don't know how you managed that, Fang, but you can certainly color me impre- oh, come on..." Snack looked over to find that Fang had not joined him and Sea More yet. He quickly ran back around the corner and called out, “Come on, brother! You don't want the Queen chucking rubble at you again!”

“Just a moment!” Fang shouted back. He remained stagnant, eyes flitting around the room. "Pardon me, Coco, but..."

Coco tilted her head. “Is something wrong?”

“No. I just...” The changeling paused, trying to find the right words. “I wanted to thank you.”

“For what?”

“For the hug last night. And this morning.”

“Oh!” Coco smiled brightly and replied, “Well, you're my friend! It's the least I can do, considering everything that you've already done for me.”

“I'm your... friend?” the changeling asked bewilderedly.

“Of course! How you could you not be?” Fang gave no answer and simply stared at Coco with a blank face. The mare's smile began to slowly fade. "Or is this all too sudden? Ooh, I knew I was being too pushy-"

“No, no," Fang quickly interrupted. "I am the one at fault here. I greatly appreciate the sentiment, make no mistake. However, given that I am a changeling, I am not used to this sort of sudden companionship, especially with an earth pony, and I am rather... ill-prepared to handle such a situation. It is almost convention for your kind, including unicorns and pegasi, and ours to treat each other with extreme prejudice and disdain, so your gesture of friendship simply caught me off guard. However, I do thank you for your warmheartedness, and I will not abuse it nor take it for granted. It is certainly pleasant to be appreciated in this manner.”

Coco's smile instantly returned, brighter than ever. "That's great to hear! Well, then... I guess I'll see you later. You gotta get going to help Sea More and Snack, right? I don't want to keep you away from your duties if it might make the Queen mad..."

"You are correct... new friend. I shall see you in due time. Good day, and good luck on creating the Queen's dress." Fang gave Coco an awkward smile and slowly paced down the hall. He took one last look back at his new friend.

Coco softly waved to the changeling. "See ya later!" she beamed.

Fang quietly nodded as he trod along, briefly left alone with his own thoughts. Oh, dear... What have I done? What have I encouraged? I could never... no, the Queen would never allow for this sort of behav- hm? Fang rounded the corner in the hall to find Sea More and Snack kneeling on the ground. Oh, no... His gaze wandered down the hall, where it was met with a rather agitated Queen Chrysalis quickly making her way down the hall. Fang quickly followed suit of his fellow changelings and took a submissive stance. I just had to think about what the Queen might say...

“There you three are! What took so long? Is playing host to one earth pony so difficult and tedious that it prevents three of my elites from staying on schedule?” Chrysalis asked heatedly.

“No, my Queen!” Sea More answered. "We had a small... dispute. Between the three of us. Your guest is not at fault here."

"Hmph! Next time, keep your petty bickering reserved for your own free time!" The Queen shook her head scornfully. "Well, what of our guest? What is the mare's status? Surely you didn't make her suffer through the stupidity of, what I can only assume was, that completely pointless argument? She has a much more important task at hand; she doesn't need you three distracting her." Chrysalis accusingly raised an eyebrow.

Fang hesitantly replied, "Coco Pommel is doing well, and the food we brought her will suffice, but I'm afraid we were a bit brazen in our conflict. However, we've tied up the loose ends and we've ensured that we will not make the same mistake. Isn't that right, Snackrifice?" He gave his brother a stern look.

Snack's jaw hit the floor. "I-I-I don't know w-what you're talking abo- oof!" A sharp pain startled him as Fang jabbed a hoof in his side. "I mean, er, yeah! We won't be screwing up like that again!"

“Good. I am having some of my designers bring mannequins to her as we speak. Did you give her the deadline?”

The three guards looked at each other in confusion. “Deadline? You didn't tell us about a deadline,” Fang said cautiously.

Chrysalis paused in disbelief and slowly let out a sigh of exasperation. The ONE time I forget to give orders... no thanks to our guest and her incessant questioning keeping me from a restful sleep. Well, it'll be quite a nice surprise for her! She brought her focus back to the guards and barked, “Very well, I'll just make sure the designers bring her the news of the deadline!"

"But we're already within walking distance of her room," Fang pointed out. "Can't we just go back and-"

"No! You've delayed your morning duties long enough. None of you have time to sidetrack!" The Queen subtly smirked as she turned away from the three and made her way back down the hall. "Besides, it should prove to be quite an amusing wake-up call for that persistent mare to have the deadline given to her by somepony she doesn't know if I do say so myself. Inferno Fang, at my side! I wish to speak to you before you head off.”

A look of concern quickly crept over Fang's face. “At once!” the changeling replied nervously, nearly stumbling over his weapon as he caught up to Chrysalis, out of earshot of Sea More and Snack. "What do you require of me, my Queen?" he asked as he kept pace with the Queen.

“I require you to not become too attached to our guest,” Chrysalis quietly instructed, keeping her line of sight down the halls.

Please don't tell me she already knows... “I... pardon me, my Queen, but I don't quite understand-”

“To the earth pony," Chrysalis interrupted. "Do not become too attached to her. As I understand it, she has taken a certain liking to you. Do not let this special treatment get to your head. I will not interfere with how she feels about you and accordingly treats you if it proves to be helpful in creating my dress, but you are under my command, and I will make sure you do not return this affection.”

Fang silently bit his lip. “Of course, my Queen. I... have no plan to do so.”

Chrysalis stopped at the intersection to the hallway leading to the throne room; Fang followed suit. “Good. Now, go and join the other guards. The sooner you attend to your morning duties, the better." The two traveled a few meters down adjacent halls before the Queen abruptly turned around and called out, "Oh, and one more thing.”

Fang stopped and turned on the spot. “Yes, my Queen?”

“Do not allow Sea More to become attached to our guest, either. Likewise, do not let him encourage you to become attached to her." The Queen gave Fang a rather stern expression. "You and I are both well aware of his background and how it may affect his attitude in this situation. Make sure both of you stay in check. Now, off you go.”

Fang slowly gulped. “I-I will see to it. Good day, my Queen.” He gave a short bow and vanished from Chrysalis's sight.

***

Coco walked from the balcany, entering her temporary estate. She took a look at her newly-assembled living quarters, and let out a small sigh, content with how it all turned out. Several mannequins lined the back of the room, blocking the glass as they faced the center like some sort of inanimate cult. The table previously covered in fabric was now drowning in a myriad of sheets, samples, and rolls of all sorts of fabrics in various colors and patterns. On the other side of the room, Coco's personal sewing machine patiently waited for its job to begin, and the one lent by the changelings now rested on the cold, hard floor. Likewise, Coco's own sets of spools of threads, needles, and measuring utensils were now strewn about on the adjacent desk, and the materials given by her hosts were mixed in or laying about on the cobblestone. The sun began its descent over the horizon as it cast a bright orange ray across the landscape and into Coco's quarters.

But even with all of her personal belongings unpacked and set up, one question continued to pester Coco: how does Queen Chrysalis prefer her dress? She reached into one of her totes, retrieved paper and several drawing instruments, and began to draw out what she could remember about the Queen's old dress for visual reference. The green-blue color contrast and the transparent silky veil that drooped down the backside of the old dress appealed to its tailor and to Chrysalis, so Coco used that notion and the clue regarding the theme for the Gala to begin her own design. Unfortunately, the way the Queen phrased her clue about the Gala's theme made it rather difficult for Coco to pin down one single idea in her head. The theme is centered around Princess Cadence and Shining Armor... Does the queen want to be dressed in armor? If that's the case, then I'll need to get in contact with a blacksmith. I wonder who'd know about that sort of thing around here... No, that's a ridiculous notion. Hm... Well, Sea More did say a guard would be outside at all times in case I needed something. Maybe I could ask him...

But as Coco motioned for the door, she paused as her encounter with Chrysalis's designers popped up in her mind. When Coco tried to speak to them, they gave no verbal response. One, in particular, shot her nasty looks. Coco remembered the female changeling lobbing the mannequins in her room without a second thought about aiming away from her. As the designers left, the one who showed no kindness took the food cart in tow, despite the fact that Coco had hardly finished half of a single platter on it. I don't want to assume the worst of every single changeling right off the bat, but... what if this guard is just as cold and heartless?... No, I can't be like that. Sea More and Fang, and even Snack, have shown a great deal of kindness and care to me, and they certainly made a very conscious effort to make a very comfortable environment for me. Maybe those designers didn't know how to coap with a pony.

Fed up with her own second-guessing and hesitation, Coco gathered her strength, boldly walked over to the door, reached up to the knob and pulled it open. She barely managed to pull the door halfway open when a harsh voice rang out, “What do you want?”

Almost instinctively, Coco retreated away from the door. “I, umm... want to speak to the queen.”

A sinister green glow surrounded the doorknob as the door violently slammed shut. “Keep quiet and stay in there. The Queen has no time to talk to the likes of you.”

“B-but Sea More said th-that the guard outside of my door can help m-me with-” Coco was abruptly interrupted by a menacing spear as it impaled the door and caused tiny splinters to spit from the entry wound. The cream mare shrieked in terror and jumped back a good ten feet. Any traces of hope for a peaceful encounter with a changeling dissolved from her mind, and she huddled herself on the floor, feeling like nothing more than a hostage in the moment.

“That bug-eyed insect needs to keep his mouth shut!” The spear receded from the door and took small chunks of wood on its way out, leaving nothing more than a splintery hole. A glowing, turquoise eye, surrounded by a rather nasty burn scar, peered through the newly-made hole as it scanned the room for any signs of movement. “Let's make something perfectly clear here. You are not here to ask and receive. You are here to work for the Queen.” A few moments passed before the changeling moved away from the door and continued. “We changelings hate your kind. Dreadfully hate. You all get to live a happy life, luxuries abound, everything hoofed to you, no questions asked, without so much as a care in the world, while we are confined here in the side of a mountain like ants, scavenging the land for food, struggling against the odds just to keep our kind alive.”

Coco's compassion and empathy suddenly flared, and she stood up to ask in a shaky voice, “W... why?”

The spear reappeared in the hole it made. “Why what?” the voice demanded angrily.

“Why do you hate us? Earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi, I mean.”

“We all have our reasons. All you need to know is that our entire race hates your kind.”

Coco shook her head. “No, no, that's not true. Inferno Fang and Sea More and Snackrifice... they were all friendly to me. So why do you - specifically you - hate ponies? You said it yourself that each of you has your own reasons, so what's yours? Maybe if I knew the issue, I could give some advi-”

Without warning, the door swung open and a lone changeling, red with anger and teeth gritted, stood in the doorway, poised to rush at Coco. “You want to know why?!” the changeling roared as he marched towards the mare. Panicked, Coco scrambled to try and get away from the scarred changeling, but she soon found herself helplessly levitating in the air. The guard bellowed, “Do you REALLY want to know why I hate ponies?!”

“No, I'm fine not knowing!” Coco flailed her arms and legs as she tried to escape, but no amount of struggling could break the spell's grip on her. “I won't ask again! You can let me down now!”

The changeling did not let her go, though. “I'd rather not! I think taking you outside to answer your questions is a wonderful idea!”

"Oh, no, no, no no no no no no..." Terrible thoughts flooded the mare's mind, and she began to savagely wriggle and writhe in response. With all of her might, Coco screamed, “SOMEPONY, HELP ME!” She continued to cry out for help in vain, nearly tearing her vocal chords in the process, drawing closer to the balcony with each second, until she found herself suspended upside-down over its ledge. She reluctantly looked up and saw a treacherous bed of jagged rocks far below her, waiting for their next hapless victim. Coco whimpered in fear as streams of tears rolled up her face and plummeted into the rocky abyss below. "W-w-hy a-are you d-doing thi-is? I've d-done nothing wrong t-to you..." she sniveled.

"You truly want to know why?!" the scarred changeling howled. “We changelings have tried time and again to make peaceful pacts with the world - with your kind - in an effort to patch relations and undo past transgressions! Yet, time and again, your kind has refused to see us as anything more than two-faced, treacherous, vermin! Every single one of you refused to move forward and put the past behind you! So guess what? We gave you a reason to treat us as vermin! We gave you a reason to fear us! AND WE ALWAYS WILL!”

For a split second, Coco felt weightless as the eerie glow and effects of the changeling's suspension magic finally dissipated, but gravity soon took a hold and sent the mare hurtling towards the sharp doom below. "NOOOOOOOoooooooooooo..." All she could do was close her eyes in despair and wait as the air around her made way to let her meet an untimely demise. She clenched her eyes shut for what seemed like ages before she realized that the rushing of wind around her had finally ceased. Coco opened an eye to once again find herself suspended in midair and bathed in a green aura, mere feet from the jagged stones that lay at the bottom of the crevice.

A loud buzzing noise circled above the mare, growing louder with each passing moment; the same changeling that dropped her now closed in on her with an incredibly begrudged scowl. Very coldly, the changeling stated, “Your kind saw us as nothing more than deceivers, so we remained that way.” He slowly ascended with the rather frightened and motionless Coco in tow, made his way back up to the balcony and set his feet on solid ground, but kept her dangling over the balcony's edge once again. “Now I have a question for you.” The scarred changeling turned to face Coco with his unwavering scowl. “Do you know what it is like to have the world turn against you? To have ponies hate you for what you are?”

“Y-yes...” Coco stammered through erratic breathing, still very uneasy from her most recent experience. “I know w-wh-what it is like to be t-turned against...”

The changeling's scowl and voice now burned with fury. “YOU'RE LYING!”

“No, i-it's true! I d-do know w-what it's like. I c-can tell you my s-story and- wait, d-don-” Before she could finish her sentence, Coco felt herself being deliberately tossed aside as the aura keeping her safe blipped out of existence. The mare screamed and fell a good thirty feet before she was once again rescued by the same changeling causing her so much turmoil.

“NOPONY CARES ABOUT YOUR SOB STORY!” the aggravated changeling screamed.

Coco was on the verge of a meltdown at this point. “Puh-please... I-I'm s-so sorry... f-for you... y-your kind... th-they do-on't des-serve t-to b-b-be treat-ted l-like this... bu-ut wh-why a-are you do-doing this t-to me?”

“TO MAKE A POINT!” The scarred changeling readied Coco for another unnerving drop when another voice echoed from the doorway to Coco's room.

“That's enough!” Coco blinked for a moment, and she and the scarred changeling looked over to see an indignant Sea More hastily striding towards the two of them. “Your conflict does not lie with our guest, Scar," he growled. "Let her go.”

Scar leered at him. “Hmph. Very well.” The changeling followed his orders and let go of Coco as she hung over the balcony's edge, causing her to dive straight for the rocky ravine below. "Happy?"

Sea More was completely stupefied by Scar's blatantly malicious execution of the given orders. He could do nothing but watch as Coco rapidly approached the jagged stones below. "Curse you, Scar! You know EXACTLY what I meant!" he muttered furiously.

A blood-curdling scream ripped through Coco's throat once more as she helplessly descended into the rocky chasm, accompanied by nothing more than the rushing wind and her own thoughts. Why do some ponies feed the world with their own anger and hatred? For only a moment, her mind brought back memories of her farewell gesture to Suri. Why did I give in to my own anger and hatred? I guess I'm just as guilty as these poor changelings... I guess this is what I truly deserve... Coco slowly closed her eyes and waited for the embrace of a painful death with a heart full of regret.

Pummel Pommel

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Ch4

Coco could feel it; the solemn embrace of death had her secured in its unwavering grasp. At last, her end had come.

And yet, something seemed peculiar about it all. Hm. I've never heard of death's grasp including hooves. I certainly never expected it to be so warm. And why is the wind still blowing around me? What exactly is going on...? Coco quickly opened her eyes, and not to the sight of any pearly gates or an empty void, but rather to the sight of the mountainside slowly spiraling away from her under the summer's moonlight. She tensed up a bit as she tried to accustom herself with the weightless sensation and exhilaration of non-vehicular flight; she hadn't quite expected to be rescued at all, let alone flown out of harm's way. Wait... how exactly AM I flying? The ever-inquisitive mare looked up and saw Fang, holding her close in his grasp. "F-Fang?! B-but... when? How? W-why?" Coco silently held back tears of joy and humility as she came to terms with her friend's unforeseen act of heroism.

"Falling to her death isn't quite exactly how I imagined the Queen's personal guest to be spending her time." Fang clutched the mare a little more comfortably as he picked up speed and pulled her up out of the canyon. "Don't worry. You're safe now. And Scar will be answering for his ill-mannered behavior. Throwing you off the side of the balcony... He has a LOT of nerve, I'll give him that." Coco faintly nodded as she cozied up in Fang's arms and simply let her troubles, and the world around her, flash away in a melded sea of rock and stone as the two of them sped through the afternoon sky.

The flight was short-lived, to Coco's modest dissatisfaction, and the two of them made it back to the balcony in a matter of seconds. Unfortunately, their return was not met with any significant warmth or hospitality, but rather with the sight of a myriad of burning turquoise eyes and the muffled sound of a large gathering of angrily buzzing wings, as if the two of them had incurred the wrath of a hive of large insects. In the time Coco had been thrown off the balcony and rescued twice, a large group of changelings managed to flood her chambers, and a good amount of them was crowding the door to the platform, blocked only by a single guard. Fang surveyed the situation with dire concern. "What the...? Sea More! How quickly did news of this travel?"

A disgruntled Sea More grimaced as he stood anchored against the door to prohibit access from the chambers to the balcony. “Scar was getting pretty loud, and Coco certainly didn't react calmly to his abuse. A crowd was bound to show up and take interest in that sort of ruckus. It certainly got MY attention. Seems it got yours as well." He turned to Coco and gave her a fleeting grin. "At least you saved our guest. Are you alright, Coco? Relatively speaking, that is.”

Coco shrugged. “I-I've been better, but I'm fine...” She looked past Sea More to watch the hubbub unfold in her room as the changelings reacted in their own ways at the sight of her. Some chatted amongst each other, a hoofful rolled their eyes at the presence of the mare, a few of them were in an uproar about her presence, but most of them simply stared back with a cold glare of disapproval. Coco could not help but worry to herself about how she would be treated by the changelings she had not met; she apprehensively drew farther back from the balcony door.

Sea More observed the cream mare's odd behavior and slowly nodded at her response. “Good to hear...” He rapidly spun around and looked through the door to confirm the cause of Coco's rather abrupt panic. "Don't worry about them, Coco. They won't hurt you,” the scarred changeling said reassuringly as he turned back around. “The past few days have been quite eventful, and hardly anychangeling else has caught wind of what's been happening. They're just... alarmed a bit. They don't understand what's going on, so they don't know what to make of this whole situation.”

A voice suddenly rang out from above. “There is no need to understand. The wretched pony does not deserve the chance to explain herself.”

Fang glanced up and watched a lone changeling descend onto the balcony, mere feet away from him. “Go swallow your tongue, Scar Splash!” he barked angrily.

Coco quickly ducked behind Fang at the sight of the burned changeling, hoping that she would not be seen by the one who caused her so much grief. Much to the mare's chagrin, Scar Splash proved too observant; he caught her movement out of the corner of his eye and laughed in ridicule. “Is that all you do?” he asked mockingly. “Quail and cower in fear behind others to avoid conflict? To avoid the truth?”

Coco gulped. All she could utter was a muted, "yes". He's right, horrid as he may be... Twice, I've hid behind Fang when things got hairy. Once with Suri, and now with this... vile changeling.

Scar Splash shook his head derisively. “I almost expected this sort of cowardice. Your kind has turned a blind eye to the truth - hid from it - for as long as we can remember. There's no reason you should be any different.” The burned changeling swaggered past Coco and Fang, his armor rattling with each step as he approached the balcony doors. With one last offhoof gesture of his head, the changeling remarked, “If you can't stand for yourself, you will never be upright.” He casually brushed Sea More aside, entered the building, moved through the crowd of changelings as it parted for him like still waters on a lake, and disappeared into the castle halls.

An uneasy quietude settled over the area in Scar's absence. Not a single changeling dared to speak out against Coco or advocate Scar's words and actions towards the mare, nor did any of them shuffle about or make any sort of movement. Even the wind blew through in total silence, as if to keep in line with the artificial peace. Time seemed frozen in place, if only for a few moments, until a large voice blasted from within the halls, over the crowd, and through the closed glass pane balcony doors. “WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?” Chaos immediately broke out amongst the changelings as they scrambled for the exit at the sound of the Queen's voice. In a hasty and orderly fashion, the group made for the balcony door, filed out of the room and flew off into the night sky. The dust slowly cleared, and only four figures remained standing: Coco; Queen Chrysalis; Inferno Fang; and Sea More.

The Queen's eyes burned furiously. “Inferno Fang! Sea More! I will not ask again! What is the meaning of this?!” she demanded once more.

Sea More gave a puzzled frown. “Perhaps they were just startled by your appearance,” he suggested.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes in sarcasm. “Thank you for stating the painfully obvious. What I want to know is why they were all gathered here in the first place!” She looked over to Coco, eyebrow accusingly raised. “You wouldn't happen to know anything, would you? Seeing as how they gathered in your chambers.”

"I-it's a bit of a story, but I can start from this morning..." And so, Coco gave a full account of the day's events, minus Snack's relatively impudent behavior, to the Queen. It took her about two minutes to progress the story to her most recent encounter with Scar on the balcony. “And as soon as he left, you yelled and they all fled.”

Chrysalis put her hoof to her chin. “Hm. This certainly does explain why Scar Splash and the other changelings were taken aback by my presence. Yet the question of how news spread so quickly still remains. I can only guess that the commotion between you two attracted the attention of one too many of my subjects, and the small initial gathering snowballed until they all joined in to spectate the pandemonium,” she grumbled silently. “In any case, I thank you for delivering this news of Scar and his actions towards you. However, as callous as he may have been, his words rang true, and I must side with him in that aspect.”

Coco's and Sea More's jaws both hit the floor at Chrysalis's sentiment. The mare stood shaking in surprise and disbelief. “I-I don't understand...”

Sea More was a bit more verbal regarding his attitude towards the Queen's statement. "I mean no disrespect, my Queen, but how could you say something like that?"

“I will always stand by my kind and side with them. Our best chance lies in unification. You know this, Sea More," the Queen replied assertively. "As Scar Splash said, we have been made out to be villains, hostile and beyond redemption, for quite some time. As such, we have lived to turn the words and actions of others into self-fulfilling prophecies, and to show them the true meaning of deception and malice. Our hatred toward pony kind is now ingrained into our society. This is how it has been for ages and, unless a major change for the better in pony-changeling relations takes effect, it is how it will continue to be.” Chrysalis sighed heavily as she stared towards the heavens and gazed upon the countless stars that lit the night sky. “Our very history is written before it even comes to light. It is an ugly reality." Chrysalis's heartfelt soliloquy ended just as quickly as it began; she immediately snapped her attention back to the cream mare standing before her. "Enough sap stories from me for one night. If I recall, you said that Scar asked if you have been betrayed in any way. Am I correct?”

"He did," Coco replied with a slow, short nod. "And I have.”

“Interesting... Care to tell me your story?”

The blue-haired mare raised her eyebrows in excitement. “You mean it?" I mean... don't you have any royal duties to attend?”

“A few end-of-the-day duties, yes. That doesn't mean I don't have time to be regaled by your tale whilst I attend to them.” Chrysalis turned around and made for the door. “You three come with me. Inferno Fang... Sea More.... Do not allow anypony near her, including yourselves. We have much to discuss.”

Fang and Sea More exclaimed in unison, “Yes, my Queen!”

The four of them returned inside, closing the balcony and chamber doors behind them, as they began a narrative-filled walk down the halls.

***

Coco lost track of the time as she walked alongside the Queen and her guards, but she didn't care for it. She was too busy giving the story of how she was, from her perspective, betrayed by the ponies back home. For the cream mare, the stroll proved to be just as much of a chance to give her story as it did a chance to see how the changelings lived. As she gave the account of her resignation as Suri's assistant, Coco was directed to a rather odd-looking passageway that opened up to a poorly-lit room. The mare strained her eyes in an attempt to see what was inside but was redirected to Fang's side by the Queen's hoof.

"One moment. Nightly inspections are in order. I will be finished in here shortly. Feel free to join me inside if you wish to continue your story," Chrysalis said with a surreptitious grin. She warmed up her wings and silently flew into the murky room, with Fang and Sea More closely following. In her ever-curious nature, and in the spirit of not being left alone, Coco scampered after them to try and catch up. As she passed through the entryway, she slowed her scamper to a complete stop, waited for her eyes to properly adjust to the low lighting in the room, and looked on, completely dumbfounded, at the stupendous sight before her.

Based on the information she had already been fed, Coco safely assumed that she had been led to the changelings' hive, and she took it upon herself to examine the place in acute detail. The rumors of glowing, green, slimy sacs permeating and overrunning the living spaces turned out to be only partially true; the dimpled cave-like walls of the hive were indeed lined with gelatinous bodies, but these sacs were all organized and laid out in varying patterns and formations. In spite of the somewhat repulsive nature of their beds, the changelings still proved to keep their abode relatively clean and incredibly orderly. Dozens of walkways composed of green, luminescent membrane, and of varying widths and sizes, weaved around the room as makeshift bridges and landing sites, creating a sort of safety net for the winged inhabitants, allowing for quick and safe travel over the abyss. Tunnels leading to who knows where dotted the walls as changelings zipped in and out at random. The ground floor of the hive sloped down into a large abyss, the bottom of which was swallowed in darkness and all but indiscernible. It may not have proven to be as grand or elegant as the Queen's throne room, but the hive was a proper home nonetheless.

Coco surveyed the elaborate system in awe as the changelings interacted and moved about to their own rhythm. "My goodness!" she exclaimed, her voice echoing through the expansive room. "This place is... well, it's... I don't even know!"

"I believe that 'impressive' may be a fitting word for what you see." Chrysalis stood only a few meters away, waiting for the teal-haired mare to pick her jaw up off the floor. "Yes, this is what my subjects call home. An intricate system, an organized system... perfect for, shall we say, a hive mind. Now then, you were telling me of your encounter with Inferno Fang in the coffee shop?"

"Oh, yes! Well, you see..." Coco made her way back to the Queen's side and continued with the anecdote as she watched the changelings in their habitat. As Chrysalis and the group moved through the room, the resident changelings reverently bowed in the presence of their leader but refused to treat Coco with the same respect as she passed by and instead kept a prejudiced watch on her every move. Coco had trouble shaking off the latent hostility around her, but pressed on and kept silent about the subject out of a somewhat contrived respect for the kin's connection to their Queen. She certainly didn't wish ill for any of them and hoped to keep the perceptible peace to the best of her ability, but at the same time, Coco was quite opposed to the idea of a re-enactment of the scene at the balcony, and the myriad of judgmental stares were rather unhelpful in putting her mind at ease in regards to this thought. Regardless, Coco gave her story, pausing every now and then for Chrysalis's inspections, and covered every point up to her departure from Canterlot as they moved through the hive.

“A fine tale, indeed," the Queen replied with a subtle smirk. "Now, about your old employer... Suri was her name, yes? How did it feel to exact your revenge upon her in such a manner?”

Coco scratched her head as she tried to put her feelings to words. “Scary at the time... but definitely satisfying.” The mere thought of the adrenaline rush she experienced from throwing the caffeinated beverage in Suri's face gave her mild goosebumps.

A sinister grin replaced the Queen's smile. “Did you make sure it was steaming hot?”

“O-of course! I mean, what good is coffee if it doesn't burn your tongue on the first sip?” Chrysalis and Coco shared a small giggle as they continued to walk. "I just... I never thought I'd get so much... happiness, I guess, from acting out revenge like that."

“Sometimes revenge is more lovely than happiness.” The Queen silently laughed to herself as her words echoed through Coco's mind.

Sometimes revenge is more lovely than happiness...

...revenge is more lovely than happiness...

...more lovely than happiness...

“No, it never is...” the earth pony retorted, and rather loudly. The pony gasped and quickly put a hoof to her mouth as she realized how audible her statement was, hoping that she had not been heard.

Chrysalis stopped in her tracks, slowly turned towards the cream mare, and towered over her as she stared her down with a face contorted with confusion and indignation. “Excuse me?!”

“Uh, n-nothing! Just thinking about fashion stuff, that's all! Don't... mind me...” Coco slowly gulped and stared back with a nervous grin.

The Queen kept an eyebrow warily raised. “I see.” Chrysalis turned back around and continued along the narrow pathway. “Speaking of fashion, what do you have planned for me?”

“As in, the design for your dress?”

“Yes.”

“Well, I, uh... I...” Coco began to silently panic, her heart pounding against her chest, beads of sweat rolling down her face. In her mind, Coco had managed to make such a good impression with the Queen. She began to wonder what might happen if that trust was suddenly lost.

Chrysalis bit her lip. “You don't have anything planned out, do you?” she asked accusingly.

“I-I'm sorry... I don't..." the cream mare murmured as she hung her head low in shame. "I just hope you understand that I have no idea where to start with-”

Any traces of friendliness in the Queen quickly dissipated as she lashed back around to Coco. “No, YOU understand!” she blurted out sternly. The earth pony jumped back out of fear and collided with Fang and Sea More as the Queen's words echoed through the hive and lingered in her ears. “I need a dress from you. Tomorrow.”

“But I have so little time, and I hardly know where to start...”

Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Start with the theme and work your way from there. Surely you remember it.”

“W-well, y-yes," Coco stammered. "Princess Cadence and Shining Armor.”

The Queen quickly huffed at the sound of their names. “Then you should have no issues.”

“But... what theme should I go with for these two? Royalty? Love? Color palettes? Are other changelings going?”

“You're the dressmaker; you figure it out. As for accompaniment, I will be escorted by about twenty of my best gatherers. Not that it should matter in the process of making my dress.”

“Okay then... So what are gatherers? Are they special changelings that-”

“Must you always inquire about my instructions?” the Queen asked abruptly, cutting off Coco mid-question. “You know your theme. Make me a dress. You have until tomorrow morning. I suggest you make a large pot of coffee to keep yourself going.”

Chrysalis's demand left Coco rather wide-eyed and speechless. Less than twelve hours to make a dress?! Is she for real?! It's like working for Suri all over again...

Fang piped up from behind Chrysalis and Coco. “A gatherer is a changeling designated to absorb vast amounts of love and to store said love for later use and distribution.” No sooner had Fang finished his sentence than a small rock flew through the air and struck the changeling in the cheek. He yelped in pain and, almost involuntarily, covered his sore with a hoof.

“And must you always ignore my instructions?! Do not speak for me!” Chrysalis barked.

Fang replied with a simple "Yes, my Queen", muffled by the hoof that covered his mouth and cheek.

The group continued along the paths in relative silence, save the occasional clanking of the guards' armor and the barely audible sounds of stifled laughter that emanated from Sea More as he tried his best to not mock his friend's misfortune. About ten minutes passed, with only a couple of stops in that time, before the Queen and company found themselves standing before a small, wooden door.

“I have one last errand, Coco Pommel, but I want you to stay out here," the Queen stated firmly, barely bothering to look in Coco's direction. "Under no circumstance are you to follow me inside.”

The earth pony shrugged. “Alright." Implying that you've actually invited me, even once, to join you during your check-ins in the first place... Ha.

"I mean it this time," Chrysalis warned as she furrowed her brow. "Do not enter through this door, or there will be consequences. Do you understand?”

"Uh..." Restraining her urge to pester the Queen with a bombardment of questions, Coco looked behind her for affirmation from Fang and Sea More and found the two of them nodding in agreement. The mare turned back around, still confused by the Queen's request to not be accompanied this time, but willing to go with the flow. "I guess so...?"

“Good enough. I will be back in due time.” Chrysalis promptly walked through the doorway and slammed the door shut behind her, leaving Coco, Fang and Sea More to themselves.

With the Queen out of the picture for only a few seconds, the cream mare set her curiosity loose and exploded with questions. “So... what exactly is in there? Is it a dark secret that shames Chrysalis? A deformed changeling that might try to attack strangers like me? What kind of consequences would I face for going in? How long will it take for her to finish up in there? Why would she tell me now, of all times, to not follow her into this room when I haven't accompanied her in a single tunnel tonight?”

Fang raised his hoof to calm Coco down. “One question at a time. Even we don't have all the answers. Let's just start from 'what exactly is in there'." He raised his head as if to motion towards the door. "The room just beyond is inhabited by creatures of sorts. Terrible, devious creatures...” The changeling shivered at the thought of what lurked inside. He lowered his tone, almost to a whisper. “A constant harassment for love and affection is all they have to offer. No mercy, no letting up, no sort of hospitality...”

Sea More solemnly placed a hoof on his friend's shoulder. “We've all been in there at some point. Fang and myself are no different in that respect.”

“So it's a prison?" Coco asked with concern. "A penitentiary? Something like that?”

Sea More bobbed his head back and forth in indecision. "It's difficult to explain what's in there," he answered. "Not in the sense that it's scarred us to the point that we don't want to talk about it, but rather that it's something you actually have to see for yourself."

Coco stared at Sea More, confused and troubled by the changeling's suggestion. “As in... I have to go in there to find out? Me, personally? Despite the Queen's instructions?" The mare slowly shook her head in protest. "I don't mean to be stuffy, but, uh... I'd prefer to avoid making the Queen mad if I can help it. I mean, it took a LOT of personal restraint to not bother her with all the questions I let loose on you guys, but I did it to avoid any more confrontation. Besides, why would she order me not to follow her if all of you have been in there before?”

“Ah, well, telling you would ruin the surprise," Fang replied mischievously. "I know you'd rather not cause more trouble, and I admire that, but... how does your kind say it? 'Knowledge is power'? Yes, I think it would do you well to know what's in there instead of trying to imagine it.”

Coco gave a small sigh and contemplated the suggestions aloud. "I'm really not in the mood to cause any more trouble... but darn it, I really want to know what's in there." Foregoing her cautiousness, the earth pony made her way to the door in the spirit of curiosity. But as she reached for the doorknob, the word “horrors” began to reverberate through her mind. "Although..." She suddenly pulled her hoof back and once again turned to Fang and Sea More for some sort of reassurance. Sea More gave a small, excited gesture to encourage her and an unsettling grin to boot, but Fang simply gave a short nod and waved her on. Coco's spirits rose and her curiosity came back, as strong as ever. "Nope, I have to see what's in there." With a breath of confidence, she twisted the knob and pushed.

The aged wood and rusted hinges creaked as the door opened into a small, dim hallway that gently turned left several meters away. The mare took a single step and, without warning, felt herself being forcefully shoved into the hallway. She tried to gain her balance, but all too late; she stumbled over herself and smacked her jaw on the cold floor. "H-hey! What gives?" Coco whined as she rubbed the point of impact.

“Just making sure you stick with this. Sorry about the jaw. Have fun!” Sea More said in an eerie tone as he closed the door behind him.

"That is n-no way to be treating guests, Sea More!" Coco rolled her eyes as she picked herself up and adjusted her bow. "Well... no way but forward, I guess..." She took one last look at the door behind her and, with a heavy sigh, slowly started down the hallway.

With each lead-hoofed step she took, Coco became less and less confident in her decision to disregard the Queen's warning. Despite her introspection, she could not help but constantly double-guess herself. Was it really worth risking the Queen's anger to find out what's down here? Was it worth risking my life to find out if these mysterious creatures are as heinous as Sea More and Fang made them out to be? Should I have headed back to my room to work on the dress rather than waste time in here?... But leaving the Queen without giving her notice? That would be ru-

A blood-curdling scream suddenly rang through the hallway; one that shattered Coco's train of thought and froze the mare in place. Okay, maybe this was a really bad idea... She frantically looked back and forth down the hall, her breath rapid and shallow and heart aflutter, as she tried to get a mental grip on the situation. Oh, what have I done? Why did I have to find out what's in here? Surely if Chrysalis doesn't cause me grief, these creatures will... No, no, no, no. I can't go back now. Come on, me. You got this. With a deep and shaky breath, Coco relaxed her nerves enough to allow herself to slowly creep to the end of the hallway and carefully peek around the corner. From her angle, there was little she could make out save the soft glow of a large and well-lit room dotted with seemingly tiny beings that moved about in the background. Can't do much from here. I guess I'll have to get closer... Coco silently gulped. ...to whatever's in there.

With a few dozen cautious paces, Coco rounded the corner and exited the corridor as it opened up into a narrow walkway overlooking the main body of the room roughly thirty feet below. The walls and floors were comprised of the same material found throughout the rest of the hive, the room measured to be about the size of two track fields side-by-side, and the opening to another narrow corridor leading Coco knew not where could be seen waiting at the back left corner of the room. The upper walkway wrapped around the entire room and the corridor like a stand at a coliseum; part of a room seemingly fit for the sport of spectating something... or somepony. In an effort to see exactly what might be subject to this sort of distant scrutiny, Coco approached the edge of the walkway and silently observed the clamor below.

To the mare's relative surprise, there were no ugly, horrid, or deformed creatures the sight of which would provoke nightmares. There was only a mass of small changelings, all of whom were laughing, running, flitting their tiny wings, and screaming with delight. Some of them ran about and chased each other; some mingled and moved around on what appeared to be jungle gym equipment, completely carved out of stone; some kept in smaller groups of two or three and chatted amongst themselves, but all of them were engaged in activities that Coco deemed rather normal.

Oh, goodness... Are these children? So adorable, so innocent... and certainly not monsters! Coco's anxiety and heart melted at the sight of the outward joy and naivete of the little ones. How could this possibly be such a terrible place? These little ones aren't causing any trouble or harm... so what was with the scream? Perhaps a joyful cry? Goodness knows it can certainly run off at times. The cream mare smiled to herself at the thought of her wracked nerves causing so much grief as she slowly paced along the ledge. If this is a playground, perhaps there's a classroom nearby, just like back home! I wonder who teaches them how to talk and read and write, and do math, and... history... Coco's smile suddenly faded and her heart sank as the innocence of the changeling children fabricated in her mind evaporated.

They're going to come to learn to hate ponies, just like Scar said! ...Or perhaps they already do? Oh, I don't even like thinking about it! The cream mare solemnly put a hoof to her mouth as she watched the changelings merrily run about in naive bliss. How awful, dooming the children like that. But why? They have so much potential to change the future, and yet it's just thrown away... Why would they be taught this sort of thing for so many generations? Come to think of it, what about ponies back home? Are those children taught to have such horrible attitudes towards others? Is it generational as well? I wonder... For a brief moment, Coco could not help but think back to her old employer, Suri, and imagine the deceitful mare as a filly. The thought of a young Suri amused Coco to the point of a stifled laugh, but the pressing matter of when and how her employer came to be so mean-spirited occupied her mind as she absentmindedly kept an eye on the changeling children below. Oh, Suri... If only I had more compassion for her and her past. What a vicious cycle of-

A small voice suddenly rang from the pit, “Who is that?” The high-pitched wail pulled Coco's full attention back to the clamor below, where she found a wide-eyed changeling child watching her warily. Slowly but surely, the volume of laughter and chatter began to die down as the other children joined their friend in examining Coco until they were all huddled below the cream mare in a large, black mass. Neither Coco nor the children knew what to make of the encounter; both parties were left in awkward silence as they stared each other down with petrified gazes.

The children's silent nature did not last long, though. Awkward silence transformed into worried murmurs, worried murmurs into confused chatter, and confused chatter into panicked shouting. “I thought nochangeling was allowed in here except the Queen!” “I'm going to tell Miss Chrysalis!” “Me too!” "Nuh-uh! I saw her first, I'll tell the Queen!"

As if driven by a hive mind, the children all bolted for the back of the room, shouting and yelling about the intruder and the Queen along the way, and disappeared down the side corridor. Coco's heart began to race at the thought of being caught by the Queen. She motioned to skedaddle out of the room, but the fear that gripped her heart quickly took control of her legs as well, and she found herself helplessly rooted in place. Now I'm really in for it...

The sound of raucous shouting and stomping ominously faded from the hollowed room, a strained silence taking its place for a moment before the clack of a single set of hoofsteps on hard ground echoed from the corridor below. A lone female changeling appeared from behind the corner and saw Coco frozen with fear. “Excuse me, what are you doing in the nursery? What is the meaning behind this?!” she shrieked.

A cold, demanding voice sounded from within the corridor; a voice that sent chills up Coco's spine. “Who is it, Bitter Tongue?”

“It's an earth pony," the changeling replied testily, eyes glued on the cream mare. "I'm assuming it's the same one you brought all this way to-”

"COCO POMMEL! Come forth!” Queen Chrysalis's powerful voice shook the earth and startled Coco out of her leg-lock.

With little choice in the matter, the mare inched her way across the walkway, toward the corridor at the end of the room, head kept low out of humiliation. She rounded the corner and found Queen Chrysalis inspecting the crowd of changeling children below. The fillies' eyes flickered and darted back and forth between Coco and Chrysalis, unsure of who to deem the center of attention. Without even bothering to look at her, the Queen addressed Coco with a tone far more bitter than any she had used before. “I told you to wait outside. I made sure that you were clear with me. And yet I come to find that you have deliberately disobeyed me.”

Small bouts of whispering and sing-song mockery quickly broke out among the children. "She made the Queen mad! She made the Queen mad!" "Ooh, she's in trouble..."

“I'm sorry..." Coco struggled to hold back shame-filled tears. "I just-”

“So is this the same pony you brought in for the special task, my Queen?” The female changeling's sharp voice interrupted Coco before she could give an explanation.

With undiminished disappointment, Chrysalis replied, “Indeed, Bitter Tongue. This is Coco Pommel. She is the pony who has been brought here from Manehattan to create my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala, and she is currently on very thin ice. ”

“Is that so?” Bitter Tongue took one more good look at Coco with a certain prejudiced disdain and snorted in begrudging approval. “Very well. Just make sure she stays out of my hair. It's hard enough keeping the children under control without outsiders like her distracting them.”

The cream mare hid her face as best as she could from the judgmental glares of this mysterious changeling and the Queen. So many changelings giving me the same kind of nasty look... Are our histories with them truly that awful? Is it something I did?

“At my side, Coco,” Chrysalis commanded authoritatively. Coco kept her face angled toward the changeling children, not daring to look upon the Queen, as she made her way across the walkway and gradually slowed to a stop at Chrysalis's side. “You have gone against my instructions, so it is only fitting that you receive the due punishment.”

Coco's ears immediately perked up at the statement. “S-sorry? What kind of puni- woahwoahWOAH!” Before she could finish her question, the pony found herself once again suspended by Chrysalis's magic, and with no warning, she was transported to the floor below and dropped like a ragdoll in the middle of the crowd.

"Your punishment, dear Coco, is direct interaction with the children."

I don't know... Moving and dropping me so suddenly was pretty messed up, too... With a little grunting, Coco got back on all fours and apprehensively surveyed the group of children that surrounded her. It was not the thought of what the children might do that worried Coco, but rather the thought of what they might say to her, or think about her, and what kind of effect this encounter would have on their outlook on her and other ponies. Surprisingly enough, and much to Coco's delight, there were no angry faces to behold, and instead she was met with a wave of awe-filled and curious eyes. The mare silently let out a sigh of relief, and her pent-up tension vanished amidst the peace.

“Is she a real pony? Like, somepony not from here?" one of the children asked wondrously.

“Yes, she is, young one,” Chrysalis gently responded. “She and others like her are the main sources of the love we use to nourish ourselves.”

Another child piped up from the back of the crowd. “My daddy says that you got a pony to make a dress for you. Is this her?”

The Queen nodded. “Indeed. She is the one whose work will aid me in collecting the love we need.”

A small wave of excitement coursed through the crowd of children as they marveled at their savior-to-be. “Wow! Really?” “How can she do that? Is the dress magical?” "Is she an angel?”

Questions quickly erupted from almost every child and stretched Chrysalis's focus every which way as she tried to answer all of them in a mannerly order. "One at a time, little ones... Her name is Coco Pommel... Yes, she is staying in the castle... How can she help me collect love? Let's just say she possesses her own brand of magic that she pours into the dress... No, she is not an angel. She certainly is a blessing of sorts, although she has her moments..."

Chrysalis's sentiment provoked a bit of thought and reflection within Coco as she stood and watched the children and the Queen go back and forth from the figurative sidelines. Wow... I-I never thought I was that important to Chrysalis, to the changelings... That was quite nice of her to say on my behalf. Despite the numerous mishaps, both minor and major, with which she had already dealt on her trip to the changelings' home, the mare could not help but feel that she had a special place among their numbers, like a love-filled patch for a well-worn hole in a blackened heart. Seeing all the children's' bright and smiling faces made her feel quite appreciated, even empowered to a degree. But why do I feel so loved and wanted here? Amongst children changelings? Maybe there's something I missed... For a few solemn moments, Coco zoned out of reality and once again became lost in her own thoughts.

What exactly am I accomplishing by making this dress? For everypony back home... well, they'll be safe from another changeling invasion, I guess. What about the changelings? They'll get all the love they need for a good long while if everything goes according to plan. Which means I got a lot of ponies and changelings depending on me to get this right. And if I do, then both sides will be content... but content with each other, or just content in knowing they won't have to clash again? Wait... Coco let out a soft gasp as she came to a small epiphany. Is this a chance to fix everything? With both sides meeting on peaceful terms, is there a chance for me, for them, for all of us, to change the way ponies and changelings see each other? To finally repair a generations-old conflict brought about by misunderstanding? Coco always knew that Queen Chrysalis was not attending the gala just for kicks, but the mare now saw how critical this mission truly was for her, folks back home, the Queen, and the changelings alike.Maybe this is why I kept the job. Maybe, deep down, I always knew this was about more than just a commission and payment for the Queen, and more than just getting the love she and her kind needs. And maybe... just maybe... I can possibly change the changelings' and ponies' opinion on each other for the better. It may be a bit of a stretch, and the idea may warrant ridicule from both sides, but I have to try for the betterment of our futures! With a small smile of satisfaction, Coco placed this new-found inspiration for her work and more positive perspective on her situation close to her heart.

The thought of a chance at such a paradigm-shifting course of events was, to say the least, a catalyst for the cream mare's spirit; a sudden, almost instinctive, burst of positive energy flowed through her. “Oh, look at all of you!" she beamed. "All of you are the cutest little things I've ever seen!”

Without warning, commotion between Chrysalis and the children slowly died down, and one by one, every changeling in the room turned their focus to Coco until all eyes were fixated on her as if she had just performed a miracle in front of them. Unbeknownst to her, Coco gave off a potent aura of love and affection for a brief moment, and the group of children, Bitter Tongue, and Chrysalis all felt its power. Bitter Tongue and the Queen were no strangers to the sensation, but the mare's emotional outburst was rather unexpected.

As for the children, they had never embraced a pony's love first-hoof, so the whole experience was quite astonishing to them, and they began small, hushed discussions about this new sensation. "Wow, that was cool! What did she do?" "Was that her love? I've never felt so much!" "How did she do that? She should do it again!" "Is she an angel?"

In the midst of all the chatter, a single tiny voice caught Coco's attention. “Umm, miss pony?” A small changeling filly at the back of the crowd nudged her way past the other children and up to Coco. Her innocent eyes shimmered with curiosity behind her long mane as she looked to the blue-haired mare for answers. “Do you like us? Do you really like changelings?”

Coco's shining smile slightly dimmed at the question. The mare had never taken the time to ponder her stance on changelings in general, and having a changeling filly pop the question threw her off-guard. She delicately avoided eye contact with the child and the others as she frantically mulled over a proper answer in her head. I guess I like changelings... most of them, at least. That Scar Splash is something else... But they're victims of circumstance if what Chrysalis says about our pasts is true. And even if I didn't, I couldn't tell the children. They'd come to hate ponies even faster! I wouldn't be dishonest in saying I do, but certainly wouldn't be truthful in saying I like every changeling-

"Miss pony? Did you hear me?" The changeling filly poked Coco's side, eager to grab her attention and to provoke a reply.

The cream mare blinked a couple of times and looked down at the child at her side. "Oh, I'm so sorry! I was a bit distracted. Always have something on my mind..." Coco's reassuring smile quickly recovered as she continued. "Of course, I do, sweetie! Especially all of you cutie pies! Why do you ask?”

“Well, my mommy says that nopony cares about changelings. Is this true?”

Coco's face may as well have been made out of silly putty with all of these serious questions bouncing back and forth; she couldn't keep a single facial expression, let alone a smile, for more than a few seconds at a time. The poor mare was completely stressed and worn out, mentally and physically, from being put in the spotlight so many times in such a short period, and she found it nearly impossible to come up with any sort of answer. “I'm sorry, sweetie, but... I'm not exactly sure how anypony else feels about you...”

The vague answer sparked a relentless bombardment of inquiries from the children. “How come you don't know?” “If you don't know, then why has nopony come to help us?” “Are you really an angel?”

Too many questions from every angle kept Coco spinning on the spot as she tried to pick out and discern even a single question to answer, but the constant pressure proved far too overwhelming for her already-worn capacity to concentrate. "Well, I... uh... One at a time, please..." she whispered weakly. "I can't answer everypony all at once...”

Chrysalis could clearly see the exhaustion in Coco, even from her perch. This sort of treatment won't get my dressmaker anywhere with her creation. I cannot allow the children to continue probing the earth pony like this if they are afflicting her with so much mental exhaustion... A sinister thought immediately crossed her mind, and a cunning grin quickly accompanied it. ...but there may be another way to keep them entertained. “Children! Leave her be for now.” The children drew silent at the Queen's behest and turned their attention to her as she drifted down from the walkway and landed on the floor below. “Gather around me. I have a new game for all of you to play.”

“The Queen wants to play a game! Let's go!” At once, the children sprinted toward the Queen and formed a half-circle around her. "Oh, what game do you have for us now?" "Can we all play?" The children all ecstatically hopped up and down as they awaited Chrysalis's next instructions.

With the crowd finally gone, Coco took a breather and collapsed in relief. Oh, thank goodness. I don't know how much more of that I could have taken.

"Settle down, children," Chrysalis calmly instructed; the children heeded her words and fell silent, excitedly awaiting the Queen's plan for them. "The new game I have in mind for you today is called 'Pummel Pommel'.”

Coco shot her head up at the Queen's proposition. Please don't tell me the game is as bad as it sounds...

“Whenever somechangeling says 'Pummel Pommel', I want you to go ahead and jump on her-" Chrysalis gestured a hoof towards Coco. "-the same way you were jumping around me moments ago.”

I was right. It's worse than it sounds. Perturbed by the thought of enduring the pain of being trampled by a crowd of changeling children, Coco spoke out against the Queen's cruel scheme in a desperate effort to change the children's course of actions, “I don't know... I-it doesn't sound like it'd be very fun. Are there other games you can play besides 'Pummel Pommel'? Perhaps a game of hopscotch, or tag, or something else that doesn't sound so bru-"

Chrysalis cupped a hoof around her ear in mockery of the cream mare's sentiment. “Did you hear what she said, children?” The children all looked around at each other with uncertainty, waiting for somepony to give the Queen an answer. “She said 'Pummel Pommel'. And what are you to do when somepony says that?”

A child near the front of the group hesitantly spoke up. “We... jump on her?”

“Precisely!” Chrysalis exclaimed with a devious smile. "Now, go on, my dear! All of you! Go on and jump on her!"

In unison, the children all turned toward Coco with equally mischievous grins plastered on their faces and made a mad dash towards her. "Get the pony!" "Run over there! Don't let her escape!" "Can't angels fly? What if she does?" "That's why we're jumping on her, stupid."

It was still in Coco's interests to talk the children out of using her as their own personal plushy pony pogo practice, but she knew better than to take chances. "N-now, hold on, l-let's not do anything rash!" the startled mare yelled, trying to reason with the overly-energetic changelings who all seemed unwavering in their effort to go through with the Queen's inane activity, as she made a hasty backpedal retreat. "H-hey, I'm sure there are other games you haven't tried! Why not try a game of mine?" she suggested. No reaction; the children were headed straight for her just the same. With her hopes of assuaging their appetite for entertainment almost completely dashed, Coco kicked her backpedaling into overdrive and doubled her vigilance, closely watching both the area behind her and the children's every movement and looking for any opening that could act as a means of escape. She dodged and weaved through the changelings' jungle gym as she tried to calm them down one last time. "Come on, let's just sit down and try to find a middle ground here! I mean, there are plenty of other games I know that I'd love to play with you all, and they don't involve getting anypony hurt or inju- oof!"

Coco's rear end suddenly slammed into a hard surface. She frantically looked behind herself, only to find that she had been backed into a corner at the front of the room, thirty feet below the very spot from which she surveyed the room upon arrival. She quickly turned around to look for a way out, but her heart immediately sank at the sight she beheld. In the time Coco had her back turned on them, the children managed to wrap themselves around her and cut off any possible escape routes.

"Oh, no. No, no, no... Escape..." Coco whispered loudly to herself as she desperately searched for a way out. "Come on, there's gotta be something I can... climb..." With some exceptional thinking on her hooves, the mare positioned herself to scale the wall directly behind her. A surge of panic-fueled adrenaline coursed through Coco, and in a last-ditch effort to avoid being trampled, the blue-haired mare used all of her strength to try and ascend the cliff to safety high above her. She managed to scramble a good five feet off the ground, but proper traction on such a slippery surface was hard to come by with her naturally smooth hooves. One misplacement of her hind left hoof sent the cream mare plummeting back down to the ground, back first, where she could do nothing against the impending onslaught of tiny changelings. "Wait, no no no no! Aaaah!"

In a mad blur of black and teal, the crowd of changeling children assaulted Coco from all sides and angles. One by one, each child took an opportunity to use Coco's helpless body as a makeshift trampoline. The poor mare curled herself up to try and diminish the pain, but her defensive measures proved to be of little aid; she still felt every sting, every blow, every relentless jab that the children happily delivered. Her head grew numb from the constant physical abuse, but a cacophony of cheering and singsong taunts rang loud and clear in her ears. "Pummel Pommel! Pummel Pommel! Let's all pummel the ne'er-do-well!"

The accumulated physical and mental stress through which Coco had been wrung completely devastated her spirit, and she broke into uncontrollable sobbing. "I-I-I'm s-sor-ry... Puh-ple-e-ease s-stop..." she blubbered amidst the injury and mistreatment. "I-I w-won't cause a-a-any... m-more tro-ouble... I-I-I pr-romi-i-ise..." But the barrage of tiny hooves did not stop, and she was subjected to continuous abuse, against her will, for a good while longer.

Bitter Tongue flew to the Queen's side and joined her in watching the children stomp Coco into the ground. “Look at them, so happy causing pain and grief for the earth pony. They grow up so fast...”

“I was hoping this mare was different from her kind," Chrysalis commented coldly as she and Bitter Tongue approached the fray. "She seemed like she would be reasonable and willing to listen to me. Yet here she is, in direct violation of instructions directly from me, the Changeling Queen herself, and she is paying the price. It disheartens me to think that this sort of behavior may be ingrained into all of ponykind..." Chrysalis suddenly paused, several meters away from the commotion, with Bitter Tongue following suit, and shook her head in denial. "...but one act of discrepancy does not a change in character constitute. I trusted Inferno Fang to choose the best of the best, and he placed his faith in Coco, so I shall place my faith in her as well.” With one swift motion, Chrysalis turned to the children, sharply inhaled and bellowed, “Children, release Coco! I believe she's had enough for one day.”

With a great deal of reluctance, whining, and grumbling, the children ceased jumping on Coco, slowly stepped away from her, stumbling and tripping over one another as they disbanded, and left the cream mare softly trembling on the ground, her hair completely disheveled and her body covered in sores. They gathered around the Queen and waited for her to give them a new order of play, but continued to watch Coco from a distance.

"So tell me, Coco Pommel," Chrysalis called out to the motionless pony. “Did you have fun with the children? They certainly had a fun time with you, and seem eager to play again.”

Coco slowly stood back up and gingerly approached Chrysalis and the children, wincing and limping in pain with every step. "D-did... did I-I have f-f-fun?" she asked in disbelief. Her voice was filled with a violent and uncontrollable shakiness. "Y-you ca-can't be... s-seri-ious... I-I-I don't... I can't even... wha-"

Without any warning, Coco's gentle nature transformed into a brutal rage, her face contorted with wrath, her mind pushed aside the pain from the numerous bruises and contusions covering her body, and she began screaming at the top of her lungs. “HOW COULD YOU POSSIBLY THINK I HAD FUN?! HOW YOU COULD POSSIBLY ASK SOMETHING SO ASININE?! DID IT HONESTLY LOOK LIKE I HAD A SINGLE OUNCE OF 'FUN' TO YOU?! HUH?!" Coco's fury burned so greatly that it caused several children to dart behind the Queen and cower in terror. "NO, WAIT! I HAVE A GREAT IDEA! WHY DON'T WE PIN YOU DOWN AND SEE HOW YOU LIKE HAVING DOZENS OF CHILDREN PUMMELING YOU INTO THE GROUND?! DOES THAT SOUND LIKE A GOOD IDEA TO YOU?! BECAUSE IT SURE AS SILK SOUNDS GOOD TO ME!" Coco's vocal chords had never been put through so much stress before, and her voice began to crack and squeak.

“How dare you yell at the Queen!” Bitter Tongue barked defensively. "She is the very reason you are here, and she can just as easi-"

"Can it, nanny," Coco growled. "Unless you wanna make this personal. Oh, I can arrange for that. I'd absolutely love to!"

The caretaker motioned to lash out at Coco, but the Queen's outstretched hoof blocked her advance. “There's no need to speak on my behalf, Bitter Tongue, nor is there any need to escalate the situation," Chrysalis interjected. "Let her vent. She has had a long day.”

Coco let out a contemptuous snicker. "A nice gesture, but I planned on ranting either way. Besides, why do you care if I've had a long day? Based on how you treated me, a special guest and 'blessing', as you so quaintly put it, I'm starting to doubt that any of you really care about me!"

The hot-headed mare took a small breather to clear her raw, scratchy throat. "My day isn't even over yet, because, apparently, I still have to make your dress! A dress, might I add, for which I've tried to set up and prepare my supplies all day! But seeing as how nearly every run-in and encounter I've had with your changelings today has had a negative impact on my progress, I've had virtually no time for this infernal creation whatsoever! Even when I was accompanying you during your queenly business, I still got nasty looks from every single changeling! Do I even have to mention what Scar Face did to-”

“I believe you mean Scar Splash,” Chrysalis interrupted.

“WHATEVER!" Coco roared, now visibly red in the face. "THE POINT IS HE THREW ME OFF THE BALCONY! Only Fang and Sea More had the decency to help me, but even they arrived in just the nick of time! Not even you sided with me! You had the gall to agree with his sentiment! Then you go and have these little-”

Coco abruptly cut herself short. Before she could bring them into the conversation, the cream mare caught sight of the children huddling behind the Queen, frightened and petrified by what they had just witnessed. The rage that gripped her heart quickly molded into regret as she came to terms with the outcome of her petty tantrum, and she let out a heavy sigh. Oh, what am I doing? This is no way to make a first impression...

“-children... I am so sorry. Please... forgive me..." Coco pleaded remorsefully. Her eyes began to well up with tears, but she held her composure. "I never... There was no reason for what I did. I just... I finally had enough... I was fed up with everything... that's been going on around me, and I... let it out in front of you... almost on you... and I am so sorry. I hope you don't hold it against me... or ponies like me. We're not like this. I'm not like this, and I'm sorry you had to see me... lash out." Coco meekly turned her face away from the children.

The children cautiously stepped out from behind the Queen and watched Coco in idle silence. Several moments passed, seemingly frozen in time, until, all of a sudden, the same child that first approached the cream mare walked up to her and placed a tiny hoof on her. "It's okay. You still care about us, don't you?"

Another child soon joined the first, then another, until, one by one, they had all gathered around Coco, once again, to comfort her. "Maybe a game will cheer you up?" "Yeah, but let's not jump on her... even though she was really bouncy!"

Coco smiled weakly. "Thank you... And you too..." She returned to her upright position and boldly approached the two older changelings. "...Queen Chrysalis and Bitter Tongue. I apologize to both of you as well. What I did to all of you was uncalled for. I just... I'd like some respect and cooperation while I'm here. No arguments, no prejudice... just a hospitable environment. I mean, I am helping out your hive, after all. I'm helping both of you, and your guards, and...” She turned back to the children around her. “...and I'm helping them.”

Bitter Tongue stared quizzically at the earth pony. “You truly intend to aid the Queen in her task? Do you want to help us? Help the children? Of your own free will?”

“Of course," Coco replied with a confident nod. "A little compromise from you and your fellow changelings would certainly make my job easier, but I plan on going through with this dress, one way or another. 'If you give to those in need, you will be known for righteous deeds'. It's a famous quote from Princess Celestia, I believe... I mean, I don't know how you feel about me quoting her, but...”

For several strained moments, Bitter Tongue could not wipe the puzzled frown from her face. But as she took the earth pony's words to heart, the caretaker nodded with a straight face and replied, “Very well. I think we can arrange something.”

Coco's face lit up. “You mean-?”

“Yes. You shall have my respect and the respect of the rest of the hive. The Queen and I will do our best to-” Bitter Tongue was interrupted by an impromptu hug from Coco.

"Oh, thank you, thank you so much!" the mare exclaimed exuberantly.

The caretaker gave Coco a small, awkward pat on the head. "Erm... you're welcome." She could feel the energy and affection radiating from the earth pony as she stood motionless in the embrace. So much love... Genuine, authentic love... She really does feel strongly about helping us. It seems I judged her too quickly... but what about the rest of her kind? No, that will take time...

Chrysalis chuckled to herself as she watched the small exchange. “You certainly seem to enjoy clinging to anypony that brings you joy," she commented.

Blushing with embarrassment, the mare hastily let go of Bitter Tongue. “I, uh... well...”

“It's quite alright. At the very least, it is a sign that you are wholeheartedly willing to help us.”

“Absolutely!" Coco beamed. "Thank you for understanding. I promise I won't disappoint you!” The blue-haired mare then stepped out from the ring of children and politely to Chrysalis, almost impulsively, as if some inner force or train of thought drove her to pay the same respects due to the royalty back home.

Coco's act of courtesy caught everypony in the room off-guard. Chrysalis's eyes widened with surprise, Bitter Tongue's jaw hit the floor, and all of the children gasped in awe. The thought of any pony, even their guest, showing respect in this manner had never crossed any of their minds.

Hoping to break the stunned silence, the earth pony stood back up and stuttered, "A-again, I'm... sorry for doing what I did. I don't know what came over me.”

“It's fine,” Chrysalis replied, her voice quivering ever so slightly. “It's difficult to put this into words properly, and perhaps I should have said this earlier, so I'll keep it short.” Her voice briefly caught in her throat as she put her thoughts to words, but she managed to utter a small, “Thank you.” With haste, the Queen flew up from where she stood and returned to her spot on the ledge above, but she kept her gaze averted from the crowd down below.

Bitter Tongue and Coco both waited for any sort of response or command from the Queen, but they were only greeted with her distant demeanor. “The Queen is rarely this pensive, especially when in view of the rest of the hive," the caretaker remarked. "She just needs some time to herself." Bitter Tongue quickly looked over to Coco. "As for you, I truly meant what I said earlier... and I'm certain the Queen feels the same way, which may explain why she is acting this way.”

Coco turned her attention to the changeling standing beside her. “You mean with respect to, well, having respect for me?”

“Yes. I know we did not exactly get off on the right hoof, but I can see that you are not as heartless and uncompromising as your kind has proven itself to be. Thank you for your willingness to aid us, and for treating us like normal denizens of this pony-filled world and not like monsters.”

The cream mare smiled faintly. "I wish I could say we're all this kind, but I've seen the kind of hate you know us for in ponies I know, and I really can't blame you for- ow!" Coco was interrupted by a sharp yank on her tail.

“Sorry...” The same filly who first talked to Coco was once again standing timidly beside her.

“What's wrong, Teethling?” Bitter Tongue asked.

“Uh... nothing's wrong," the filly answered quietly. "I just wanted to ask Miss Coco something else. Is that okay?”

Coco smiled brightly. “Of course! What's on your mind, sweetie?”

“Well, I guess it's not really a question," Teethling said as she played at the ground with a hoof. "I wanted to say thank you for helping us.” As she finished her sentence, the filly carefully wrapped her front hooves around Coco and gave the earth pony a small hug.

With a warm smile, Coco returned the hug. “Aw, you're absolutely welcome. It's my pleasure to help.”

“Maybe once we get all the love we need, my daddy can start eating more.”

“What do you- oh...” Coco's heart sank like a stone. The thought of a family, of an entire species, suffering from a lack of nourishment caused by discrimination dampened the mood for the cream mare. Yet at the same time, Teethling's sentiment motivated her even further to pour her heart and soul into the dress and to help the changelings. They may be on unfriendly terms with most of Equestria, but that doesn't mean they don't have the right to live. They're pony beings, just like us, and they deserve a second chance. Coco gently pulled Teethling closer and softly murmured, “Don't worry. Your dad and the entire hive will get all the love they need and more. I promise.”

A fleeting thought provoked a brief inkling of doubt in Teethling. “But... there's, like, a bajillion changelings. That's more than I can count! Are you sure you can help all of us?” she asked worriedly.

"Well, a bajillion is quite a lot," Coco laughed. "It's certainly more than I can count as well. But you know what? I have no doubt that I can make it happen. A friend of mine once told me something. 'One positive and generous act can go a long way.' And in this case, it'll help you, your dad and all the changelings here!”

“It's true,” Bitter Tongue added. “Very few ponies seem to know and understand this concept, so it is quite comforting to know that Coco does. To be fair, I should have suspected that Coco kept such values close to her heart based on what she said before, but nevertheless, I am glad to hear this.”

Coco rubbed the back of her head. “Oh, it's not that special. I just try to keep myself in good company,” she said sheepishly.

Bitter Tongue chuckled silently. “Well, you stick with that philosophy, and we'll get along fine. Anyways, I think we've had enough drama for one evening.” She redirected her focus toward the children and exclaimed, “Tonight, you are free to do as you please!”

A cacophony of jubilation rang within the narrow halls as the children all celebrated the instructions together, cheering and jumping up and down with excitement. Coco watched the children split up and return to the activities in which they were engaged prior to her arrival, but, out of the corner of her eye, she noticed that one of them had stayed. The cream mare looked over and saw Teethling, staring at the ground in stationary solitude. "Are you okay, Teethling? Don't you wanna join your friends?” Coco asked.

Without answering the question and without warning, the young one took to the air, flitting her wings with all of her might, and ascended the thirty-foot cliff to join Chrysalis, who had not moved an inch from her spot high above Coco and the rest of the changelings. From where she stood, Coco could barely make out Teethling talking to the Queen, but the squeals of delight coming from the playful fillies proved too great, and she found it impossible to determine exactly what the child was saying. Teethling finished her dialogue rather quickly, and with a small nod from the Queen, she flew back down to the bottom floor.

“I see you've gained confidence in your flight skills," Bitter Tongue commented as the child landed at her side. "Very well done, but please let me know if you plan on ascending by yourself next time. So, what did you tell the Queen while you were up there?"

Teethling shook her head, still refusing to make eye contact with anypony. “I didn't tell her anything. I just asked if she and Miss Pommel had to leave soon. She told me yes, they do...” A small grin suddenly formed on the child's face as she slowly looked up at Coco. “...but she also said we could play one more game before then.”

Coco could not shake the uneasy feeling that came from hearing the phrase “one more game”, but the look in Teethling's eyes tugged all too much at her heartstrings. Darn it, I can't say no to a cute face like that... “Alrighty, I think one game will be fine,” she replied.

Teethling's grin turned into a goofy smile. “Well then, let's go!” she exclaimed as she took ahold of Coco's foreleg with a firm grip. The child excitedly led her guest, who struggled to keep up the pace with only three hooves on the ground, toward the center of the playground area, navigating a path through the crowd of children, until they reached the most barren spot. Teethling let go of Coco and circled the area a few times. “Hmm... Yep, this is the perfect place to play our game,” she said conclusively.

“Alright, what game did you have in mind?” Coco asked with a smile. “Are we going to play tag, or Nanny Neighs, or-”

Before the question could be finished, Teethling hollered, “PUMMEL POMMEL!” and immediately bit down on Coco's tail. Coco's unassuming smile twisted into a horrified look, and the rest of the children ceased their horseplay and turned to the center of the room, as the changeling's words rang through the air like an ominous siren.

The panicked earth pony tried bolting for the closest opening, but the tiny changeling's grip on her tail was deceptively powerful, and she bounced right back. "Teethling, I thought we agreed no more changelings jumping on my head!" she moaned in despair as the children charged straight for her.

"Phorry, Miff Phummel, buff diff game iff fo muff fun!" the child explained with a mouthful of hair. "Ull juff make fur we go eevy on you diff tum!" She spit out the blue mess and cried out, "One at a time, everypony! We don't want to hurt her."

"A bit late for that," Coco sighed in exasperation. Well, no good deed goes unpunished, I guess... although it could be much worse. With a small deal of reluctance, she let the children pile onto her once again.

***

“Queen Chrysalis, why did you give the children a game that involves using me as a trampoline?” Coco was still aching from the second session of Pummel Pommel as she and Chrysalis made for the hallway leading out of the nursery. The children were gathered below to bid them a spirited goodbye.

“Well, if I recall correctly, I decreed that your punishment for going against my instructions was direct interaction with the children," the Queen taunted. "I believe that's quite some direct interaction if I do say so myself. Perhaps next time, you'll do as I ask and not cause any unnecessary trouble.”

"Yeah, but... nrgh..." The mare grumbled to herself, but she could not deny the truth in Chrysalis's statement.

Before Coco and Chrysalis could make it to the hallway, a voice called out from behind. “My Queen!”

The two slowed their pace and turned to see a figure flying through the air in a hasty approach. "What's the matter, Bitter Tongue?" the Queen inquired.

“Forgive me for bothering you," the caretaker huffed as she landed on the ledge. "May I speak to Coco one last time before you leave?”

"Very well, but please make it quick."

Coco briskly walked over to Bitter Tongue with a light spring in her step. “Did you need something from me?” she asked.

“There is nothing I require of you, Coco," Bitter Tongue answered with a small wave of her hoof. "I simply wanted to extend to you a formal apology.”

The earth pony recoiled in surprise. “Wai- apologize? For what?”

Bitter Tongue briefly glanced down at the children before answering. “I want to properly apologize for judging you before getting to know you. I know I made a comment regarding your altruism earlier, but I think it's safe to say that hardly counts. So... I apologize for my irrational judgment and behavior earlier." With two sharp motions, the caretaker bowed her head and snapped it right back up.

“Oh... Well, thank you. And I certainly forgive you,” the mare replied. "But... why make it so urgent?"

“There's something else I need to tell you. It's something that should have been explained to you as soon as possible... Something that will provide a bit of insight as to why what's been happening to you has been happening.” Bitter Tongue nervously looked in the Queen's direction before subtly gesturing Coco to come closer. As the earth pony came within earshot, Bitter Tongue roughly whispered, “You've had this rather bad reputation for one big reason: the Queen. She resorted to bringing in a pony, an outsider - no offense - to make her dress for the Gala, rather than assigning the task to one of us... one of her own kind... and it's made a lot of us feel a lot less useful to the Queen. Many of us would rather die than be replaced, so it's only natural that we, including myself, would absolutely despise you... or, at the very least, despise the thought of you being here in the first place.”

“Oh... well, how would they be able to help the Queen dead? I mean, it seems counter-productive, doesn't it?”

“In a sense, yes, but it's part of our mode of operation. If we can't live for the hive, there's often no point in living. It's rather macabre, so try not to think about it too much. It hit rather close to home, so to speak, when I realized what kind of impact it could have on those around me - namely, my closest friend, Silky Maggot. Silky is the Queen's lead apperal designer, responsible for drawing out and designing her dresses, as well as drapes and various linen decorations about the castle. When news about a pony designer coming in to replace her and the other tailors got out and spread to her, it brought her a great deal of grief. Of course, I was not keen on the idea of my friend dealing with that kind of turmoil, so it goes without saying that I was not keen on the idea of a pony being brought in to 'replace' my friend, let alone meeting my friend's 'replacement'.”

The earth pony looked away ruefully. “I'm sorry... I never knew that my being here was causing this kind of distress and controversy...”

“It's not your fault,” the caretaker grimaced. "You, individually. Besides, if the Queen is going to have the best dress possible for this gala, it only makes sense to bring in an expert with a more direct knowledge of the standards that will need to be met."

“It's true,” Chrysalis pitched in, mere inches away from Coco and Bitter Tongue. Both of them flinched at the Queen's sudden and completely unexpected presence.

At once, Bitter Tongue slammed her forehead on the ground as she bowed in submission. “Forgive me, my Queen, but the others and I have always felt very strongly against the idea of turning to a pony for help in this endeavor, rather than to your own kind, and we-”

“Enough, Bitter Tongue,” Chrysalis interrupted solemnly. “Look at me.” Bitter Tongue lifted up her head, now bruised and slightly reddened from the impact, and met the Queen's gaze. “You and the rest of the hive are special and unique to me. You cannot, and will not, ever be replaced by anything or anypony. Do not forget that.” Without warning, the Queen turned and hastily made for the exit. “We depart, Coco. My errands are finished for the evening.”

Coco hurried to Chrysalis's side per request and gave one last glance back at the caretaker, now standing alone on the lookout, as she and the Queen disappeared into the hallway.

***

It was a quiet walk back to Coco's room. Fang and Sea More tried to extract information and details of what went on while they waited outside, but the Queen and Coco kept silent. Chrysalis maintained an emotionless facade with no orders or instructions to give, and Coco reflected on what Bitter Tongue had disclosed as each changeling glared her down while she and the rest of the group made their way through the hive.

In due time, Coco and company rounded a cobblestone corner, into a hallway that rang familiar even for the guest. To her relief, not a single changeling was to be found anywhere near Coco's room as she and the others continued down the short passageway. The earth pony broke off from the rest of the group and slipped into her room without a sound.

Before Chrysalis reached the door to Coco's room, Sea More broke the silence and asked, “My Queen, if it be in your interests, would you care to tell us what happened at the school grounds?”

The Queen stopped and sighed, and wearily turned to address her guards. "Much has come to light tonight - too much to relay at this hour - but I can tell you this much. Fang, you have found the perfect candidate to help us thrive. I applaud your keen judgment of character. Sea More, your suggestion to have a pony assist me in this venture to obtain love was, for a lack of better words, brilliant. I thank you, both.”

Fang's and Sea More's eyebrows shot up in unison, and they glanced over at each other with the utmost surprise. They were no strangers to compliments from the Queen for a job well done, but to be personally thanked by her for anything was almost unprecedented. Nonetheless, they bowed in respect and replied in unison, “You're quite welcome... and thank you, My Queen.”

Chrysalis nodded in response, turned on the spot, and headed into Coco's room as Fang and Sea More silently waited outside. The calm did not last for long, and the solemn air was shattered as the Queen's voice boomed through the air. “This is no time for sleep!” At that moment, both guards ran to the door and peered inside the dark room to see what the commotion was all about.

"Get up!" Chrysalis yelled as she stood at the edge of the bed where a very tired Coco lay. “I clearly remember telling you that I need a dress by morning!”

The earth pony cautiously crawled out of the comfortable mattress as the aggravated changeling towered over her. “But... it takes time to make a dress.”

Chrysalis looked out to the moon loftily hanging in the dark-blue sky. “Judging by the current position of the moon, you have roughly six hours before sunrise," she said bluntly. "I suggest you get to making my dress, posthaste.”

Without another word, the Queen made for the door in a royal fit. Coco, who had been denied the chance to finish her thoughts, got up from the bed, dashed past Chrysalis and blocked the exit. “You cannot expect a dress to be properly designed and completed in such a small time frame. Please... I need more time,” she pleaded.

Chrysalis raised her eyebrow in disbelief. “Really? Because Fang would have me to believe that your previous boss had you make five dresses in less than twenty-four hours. That means one of you is lying, and I'm in no mood to drill the truth out of either of you.”

“No, he's right... I'm sorry..." Coco said weakly, her body slouched. "I'm just... nervous, I guess. I-I'm making a dress for a Queen... for someone with so much power that... I'm interacting with on a regular basis. It's kinda intimidating, in a weird sense.”

The Queen smiled. “Well, Fang also told me that your dress lineup got second place at the... Manehattan Fashion Show, was it?”

“Yeah, it did.”

“Would you say you were just as nervous then as you are right now?”

“I guess.”

“Then if your stories are true, it's safe to say you will not disappoint me.”

'Do not disappoint me!' Suri's voice rang in Coco's head ominously, and visions and memories of the last Fashion Week flashed through her mind. All the credit for my work... all the glory and recognition for my toil, even if it wasn't first place... all of it was wrongly taken away. It's awful, it's unjust... but why me? Why did Suri decide to keep me around and force me to live through that nightmare? Why did she never criticize me about the designs and final product?... Was my work so outstanding that it truly rivaled Rarity's? I mean, Suri never complained about my work. She only ever nitpicked about my ability to fetch her coffee and the fact that I nearly had her disqualified... Maybe I can make this happen...

"Seems you're at lost in your own thoughts again," Chrysalis commented as Coco stood in a trance before her. "I'll leave you with this: it is better to try and fail than to never try and never know if you can succeed. But I trust you can do this. Prove it to me. Prove it to yourself." She made her way around the earth pony and parted from the room. “You two are to stay here with her," she instructed the guards on the way out. "Sea More, guard the door. Inferno Fang, you make sure she designs a dress.”

“You want me to monitor her during every single process?” Fang clarified.

“Correct. I take it you won't be distracted by his presence, Coco?”

The mare hoped to be excluded from the Queen's conversation, but the question prompted a short “no” from her. Coco knew she could trust Fang to treat her with kindness.

“Good. I will be seeing your work in the morning.” With that, Chrysalis' hoofsteps echoed through the hallway and room, gradually fading, as she made her way down the hall, around the corner and out of sight.

No sooner had Chrysalis left than Sea Moor suddenly exclaimed, “Well, you two have fun!” shoved Fang into the room with Coco, and slammed the door shut.

“I can enter a room by myself, thanks. No need to be pushy." Fang grumbled against his brother's mannerisms under his breath.

"Uh... Fang?" Coco's voice cut the changeling off mid-rant. "Not to be rude, but..."

"Oh! Right. Here to watch you while you work, I guess," Fang recalled. "Sounds like fun, huh?”

“Yes, but... how am I supposed to work in this dark? I can't exactly see anything, not even my own hoof.” Coco haplessly waved her front left hoof in front of her face.

“Here, let me see if I can fix that for you.” A pale green glow emanated from Fang's horn, and in a flash of light, six white spheres of energy burst to life from the chandelier that dangled from the ceiling at the center of the room. “My name is Inferno Fang, after all. It may not be typical fire, but my magic easily gives off a fair amount of light. I'm pretty sure I can use it to... light up your evening. Eh? Get it?”

Rolling her eyes and giggling at the same time, Coco waved her hoof and said, “Oh, cut it out.”

“If I have to cut it out, does that mean I have to use my scythe?”

“Stop it! Your jokes are terrible!”

Fang and Coco shared a small laugh as the mare moved about the room to gather her supplies. “Well, are you going to get started?” Fang asked.

Chrysalis's parting words danced in Coco's head for a brief moment. The pony knew what she had to do. “Yes, I am.”

***

Overcast weather hung in the air as the dark-blue sky slowly gave way to the light creeping over the horizon. Whizzing and whirring filled the guest room as Coco worked the sewing machine overtime to bring her creation and design to life. A cool breeze crept through the crack in the window and tickled the earth pony's neck. All six spheres of light continued to burn with the same intensity they had upon their creation, keeping the room brightly lit.

Fang had positioned himself up against the wall, off to Coco's right side, to keep an eye on the door, the balcony, and everything in between. He had a clear line of sight to Coco and her work, but, despite the Queen's instructions, he chose not to observe her every move, instead preferring to keep an eye out for any intruders, per his more recent agreement with Coco.

The whirring of the machine's gears suddenly died down. “Are you finished?” Fang asked, his attention drawn to the sudden silence, but his eyes kept away from Coco and her work.

Coco took a deep breath and replied, “Yep. All done. One second here...” The pony grabbed the mannequin on the opposite side of the room, pulled it across the floor, creating a great deal of horrible screeching noises as metal dragged against stone, and set it by her work table. Very carefully, she took the new creation and fit it perfectly over the white figure. Satisfied with the dress's seating, Coco took a step back and exclaimed, “There!”

Fang dared to peek for only a moment, but it proved to be more than enough to floor him. “That's amazing!”

“Hey!” Coco pouted as she jumped in front of the dress to block it from Fang's view. “You said you wouldn't look.”

“Sorry...” Fang quickly looked away out of guilt.

“I want it to be a surprise to both you and Chrysalis.”

“Queen Chrysalis.”

A pencil flew through the air, courtesy of Coco, and made a small "plink" sound as it bounced off Fang's helmet. “Come on, it's too early for technicalities, Fang,” she said playfully. With her work done, Coco slowly made her way to the bed and crawled under the sheets to finally get a little shut-eye. Fang dimmed the spheres of light housed in the chandelier and closed the blinds to accompany her sleep.

Unfortunately, a loud knock at the door kept the cream mare from much-needed rest. As tired as she was, Coco managed to jolt herself up from the bed and stagger over to the wooden barrier. She lifted the latch and, to little surprise, found Chrysalis standing before her. “Oh... good morning, Queen Chrysalis.”

“Have you made the dress?” the queen asked plainly as she stepped inside the room.

“Yes, o-of course.”

Chrysalis looked around the room with uncertainty. “I hope you didn't try to make it in this darkness. I know your kind struggles to work under these sort of conditions.”

“Oh, no, the room was lit up quite well not a minute ago. The dress is right over there...” Coco gestured toward the dress that stood in the darkness. "...but it might be hard to see properly."

“Inferno Fang, if you would,” Chrysalis prompted.

“Yes, my Queen!” The changeling's horned glowed, and the lights returned to the chandelier once again, bathing the room in a soft white light.

“Bring the dress closer. I want to properly inspect it.”

Fang turned his head and levitated the mannequin and dress over to the Queen's side.

Chrysalis slowly paced around the dress several times, inspecting it from top to bottom and scrutinizing over every little detail. Coco sweated silently as she watched the Queen critically inspect her handiwork, the result of six hours of sleep-deprived creativity. "So, uh... what do you think? Is it good? Okay? Not all that-"

“Make another,” Chrysalis said firmly.

Coco's face lit up like the prismatic spheres that danced about on the chandelier.

Another Way to Convince

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Who you Work for
Ch5

“Why are you still standing there?" Chrysalis barked. "Make another dress.” Coco did not move an inch. She was too busy staring at the Queen with a giant smile plastered on her face. Chrysalis' irritation quickly flared at the earth pony's absentmindedness. "Coco, pay attention!" she commanded as she slammed a hoof to the floor. "I need you to make another dress."

The third time was the charm; Coco acknowledged and processed the Queen's request, but as she did so, her smile changed into a rather confused and upset expression. “Wh-what? Another...?” Coco frantically circled her dress, examining it with extreme prejudice and trying to find out what would bring the Queen to make such a request.

The work of art being displayed on the mannequin truly was a sight to behold. The main dress was a single full-body piece, a sort of cross between cloak and dress, fabricated out of a strong, soft silk, utilizing only a single shade of turquoise, and lined with a white lace that worked its way all the way up to the neckline, where the lace was replaced by wool. Two golden pieces intersected each other to form a sort of laurel that rested on the back of the mannequin's head. The neck piece stretched halfway up the neck and had a wool rim. Halfway down the neck piece had several pearls that circled around the lower throat of the mannequin, and around the neck was a necklace. It had a thin silver string that held a large white pearl. What made the dress even more stunning was the chest region. The white border that rested at the bottom of the dress reached up toward the centerpiece of the torso as both sides of the white detail collided with each other, and then creased outward, making the shape of a heart as the large necklace pearl hung in the middle of the shape.

“Another dress, yes. Immediately,” the Queen said, finishing the earth pony's sentence for her.

“B-but... is there something wrong with it?” Coco's voice quivered as she stepped back from the mannequin. “I made sure every stitch and hem was perfect. I made sure there weren't any bare threads...”

Instead of trying to argue with Coco, Chrysalis quietly paced around the earth pony's hoofiwork several times over and took another good look at it before repeating herself; “Make another.”

A strong sense of rejection quickly grew in Coco's mind. “I-I just want to know... I mean, if you're telling me I didn't... do so well, it helps to know what's wrong with what I did.”

“Do not make me repeat myself again!” Chrysalis shouted, her eyes angrily fixated on the cream mare. "You have your instructions. See to it that you finish by this evening. I must be going now."

Coco opened her mouth to give a rebuttal, but nothing came to mind, and she watched in defeated silence as the Queen left the room. She looked to Fang, hoping that he had some insight or answer on behalf of the Queen as usual, but even the guard himself was rather baffled by this turn of events and simply shrugged his shoulders in response. In a bout of panic, Coco rushed out of the room after Chrysalis and blocked her path down the corridor. The earth pony did not utter a single word; she simply stared up at the Queen and let her eyes convey the desperation in her heart.

Chrysalis snorted in exasperation and rolled her eyes. “Very well. I no longer want you to make a dress.”

“You mean you actually like this dress?” Coco asked with a hopeful smile.

“I want you to make five more instead. By tomorrow morning.”

Coco's jaw hit the floor. Five more?! In a day's time?! I barely made one in six hours!

“Fang, I have instructions for you as well!” Chrysalis called out as she moved around the dumbstruck mare.

The armor-clad changeling burst out of the guest room at the sound of the Queen's voice. “At your command, my Queen! What do you require of me?”

“You are to remain here with Miss Pommel. Again. We don't need any more incidents with the rest of the hive. Oh, and make sure she stays on track. Again. Twenty-four hours is so little time to finish five dresses." With that, Chrysalis departed into the cobblestone halls in her usual regal fashion as the sound of her hooves clacking on stone floor ominously faded into nothing.

Coco was left frozen in place, her lips trembling and heart racing and her mind was plagued with doubt and guilt. What did I do wrong? Was the dress not what she wanted? Does she not know what she wants?... Maybe she does and... and I didn't impress her. Maybe I'm not good at what I do. Maybe... I failed... The earth pony choked up as she tried to stifle the urge to weep over her presumed failure.

"Er... Coco?" Fang was still waiting by the door to the guest room. He could clearly see how distraught Coco was, but had no idea how to approach her in her current state of distress. “Are you okay? Do you need me to-”

“I'm fine!” Coco snapped, but her sharp, scratchy tone and watery eyes told a different story, and she knew it. "...sorry. I shouldn't have been so brash." With a few deep breaths to calm her nerves, she paced over to her room and joined Fang inside the doorway. “I just- it goes back to last night... in the nursery with the children. I thought I had made progress with the Queen, but... I want to believe her - believe that she is respecting me - but it doesn't feel like it at all...”

Fang looked around, ensuring that nopony else was in the vicinity, rested his scythe on the wall, gently closed the door, and, with a small deal of difficulty, found a few choice words to try and comfort Coco. “Well, I don't know about anypony else, but... as your friend... you certainly have my respect... and I'll be here to help you out.” The word 'friend' rolled off Fang's tongue like a brick. Never before had he considered that he would ever befriend an earth pony, yet right beside him was Coco Pommel - an earth pony, a friendly face.

The changeling's kind words and deeds moved Coco and warmed her heart; she could no longer bide her emotions, and tears of both joy and sorrow began to run down her face as she embraced the changeling with a distraught hug. “What did I-I do wrong? I just... wanted to know... how to improve...” she sobbed, her body visibly rising and falling to the rhythm of her erratic breathing.

Fang returned the hug and patted Coco's shoulder. "Don't take the Queen's abrasive attitude personally. She's like that to all of us," he reassured her. “You know you did an amazing job on the dress, right?”

Coco slowly let go of Fang and nodded as she stepped back and wiped the tears from her eyes. “I suppose I did...” she replied shakily.

“Do you remember what Scar Splash said to you yesterday?” Fang asked.

"Uh... not really,” the earth pony said with a sniffle. "I tried to push any memory of him out of my mind after he did what he did to me... although being thrown into a ravine like that will be pretty hard to forget."

“Well, if I remember correctly, before he stormed off, Scar said, 'If you can't stand for yourself, you will never be upright.'”

A hazy memory of Scar's parting moment slowly made its way to the front of Coco's mind. "Yeah, that sounds about right... but some advice that was. I tried standing up for myself, but I barely made a difference, it seems."

Fang continued, “Well, in a sense, Scar was correct.”

“Wha- how? What do you mean?”

“You keep on doubting yourself as if everything you do is wrong or could use improvement, but it seems that you get it right the first time most of the time. Even if you don't, so what? It's not a crime to make mistakes, and if you do make them, roll with them. Don't dwell on your faults. Don't let them become stumbling blocks. Stand tall, figuratively speaking, and use your experiences to better yourself.”

Coco scratched her head in puzzlement. “Well, if the Queen was trying to tell me I did well, couldn't she have been more tactful about it? I did what she asked, and then she asks for another dress, then changes to five more dresses? I mean, I know she's abrasive like you said, but that just seems like overkill to me.”

“True, changing her mind so drastically does seem a bit over-the-top. However, did she look disappointed or disgusted? Did she say 'This is atrocious' or anything to that effect?”

“No, I... guess she didn't, really.”

“Just between you and me..." Fang leaned in toward Coco and lowered his voice to a low whisper. "...in all honesty, I think she was rather impressed. The five dresses thing may have just been her way of showing that, but only she knows for sure.”

“Yeah, seems like it,” the earth pony replied with a small pout. I suppose Fang is right, though. Chrysalis didn't ask me to change or improve the dress; she simply asked for more. Maybe it impressed her, but it wasn't quite what she had in mind. Maybe she isn't sure of what she wants... but right now isn't the time for ifs and maybes. I gotta get to those dresses! Coco let out a loud yawn and stretched out her body to get her energy flowing. “Alright, time to get started. But, uh... before I do that...”

“What's wro-oh, okay...” Fang barely had time to start his question before Coco briskly wrapped her hooves around the changeling again in a second warm embrace.

“Thanks for the encouragement,” Coco whispered as she clenched her eyes shut and squeezed out the last few traces of tears.

“M-my pleasure.” Fang still couldn't shake the awkward sense of vulnerability that struck him every time Coco approached him so spontaneously, but the warmth and radiance of her affection were certainly beginning to diminish its severity.

A low growl from the earth pony's belly disrupted the tender moment.

Fang tilted his head down and stared at Coco's stomach with a puzzled face. “When was the last time you ate?"

“Not since yesterday morning, I guess," Coco said with a shrug. "That might explain why I'm so hungry.”

The guest room door suddenly swung open, and a face quite familiar to Coco and Fang popped into view. “Did somepony say she's hungry?!” With the goofiest smile he could procure, Sea More merrily bound into the room with a food cart loaded with various pastries in tow, and Snackrifice tailing behind. "I figured you had a really long evening, so I came down and brought as much food as possible to make sure you'd have what you want to eat, you know? Kinda help this place feel a little more h- oh, my." As he rested the cart of food in the middle of the room, Fang looked over and saw Coco and Fang waiting by the door, still within each others' grasp. He blinked his eyes rapidly in astonishment, and his lips curled up into a sly grin. “Er... is there something you want to share with the rest of the hive there, Fang?”

***

“Five more dresses? Are you kidding?!” Sea More exclaimed in disbelief. “She demanded five more dresses, and she didn't even give any feedback? Not even a thank you?!”

Coco decided against answering the query. Her mind was still preoccupied with the Queen's ultimatum as she sat at her work table, and she favored the idea of finishing her chocolate eclair and working out her conundrum in silence, or, at the very least, without any yelling.

“Alright, alright, keep your voice down,” Snack grimaced at the changeling. “It's too early for shouting, and I'm too hungry to listen to your ranting.”

“Oh, boo hoo. When aren't you hungry?”

“When I've had enough to eat, Mr. Insensitive.”

"I'm insensitive?! At least I care that Coco's being treated so horribly! At least I care about somepony other than myself!"

"Excuse you, I do care, but I know better than to talk about the Queen so disrespectfully!"

Coco tried shutting out Sea More's and Snack's feuding and even plugged her ears with some cloth scraps, but her concentration was all but depleted, she was fed up with conflict, and she could find no solace from the calamity. Defeated, she slouched over and let her head drop onto a pile of fabric on her desk.

Fang, who had been monitoring Coco, took the drooping as a bad sign and moseyed on over to Coco to try and talk her through her issues again. “Still bothered by the Queen's request? Or are these two dimwits just causing too much noise for you?” he asked in a low tone, trying to keep the conversation private. "I don't know about you, but they're getting on my nerves, and I'd be more than happy to throw them out for you."

Coco yawned and nodded, her head still nestled in the fabric. “Both, I suppose... but more by the deal with the dresses I have to make. The problem is that I don't know what to make next. I'm trying to come up with something... anything... but I'm just so exhausted, and my creativity is paying the price.”

“Well, then, how about a nap? Just a few hours of undisturbed rest to get your mind rested enough. It might not be a full night's rest, but it's something.”

“Sleep does sound good. I just didn't know if I should have tried to get a nap in when I had such an important task at hoof, but since you suggested it, I won't feel too bad about sleeping on the job... so to speak. And then there's the matter of trying to get some peace and quiet for a good nap, but that'll be impossible with their arguing.” Coco lazily gestured over to the two changelings still arguing with each other in the background.

“It's a shame that your father taught you poor eating habits!” Sea More barked.

“At least I have a father!” Snack replied haughtily.

In an instant, Sea More charged Snack and tackled him to the ground, and the two guards exchanged blows in a mad clash of steel, fangs, and hollowed-out legs.

The nerve of those numbskulls... Fang shook his head in disappointment. "Don't worry. I'll deal with them for you."

Coco smiled wearily. "Thanks... Five whole dresses in twenty-four hours... that's pushing my limit.”

"If only there was somepony who could help you," Fang sighed heavily. "...well, if you'll excuse me, I've got some trash to take out.” The changeling slowly stood up and motioned for his scythe resting on the wall adjacent to the door.

"I wish there was..." Coco gave out another long yawn and gently closed her eyes to relax, but as Fang took ahold of his weapon, an idea crossed the earth pony's mind, and her eyes widened right back open. "Wait, Fang, I've got it!" she cried as her head suddenly shot up from her desk. "I think I know somepony who can help!"

***

“Coco Pommel requires my help? So soon?”

“That seems to be the case, Mrs. Bitters.”

Inferno Fang patiently stood by a wall of the cavernous hive, just outside a lonesome cavity that housed Bitter Tongue and her youngling. Two white lights faintly shone to shed some light on Bitter Tongue as she laid next to the child, who was sound asleep.

“Well, I must say, I am quite surprised by this turn of events!” The caretaker's exclamation startled the small changeling from its peaceful slumber "Oh, dear..." With a gentle tone, she cuddled the child back to sleep before it had a chance to start crying. “So Coco needs my assistance? Alright, how can I be of help to her?”

“From what she told me, you have connections. You told Coco last night why you and the other changelings hated her, correct?”

“Correct..." Bitter Tongue humbly replied. “But I've seen the error in my judgment! She's different than how I imagined her, and I've completely changed my outlook on her for the better.”

“So are you willing to cooperate with and assist Coco Pommel?”

“I trust that she will help us in every way possible. Of course I am," Bitter Tongue responded.

“Excellent to hear!" Fang commented with a content smile. "We should leave at once. Time is of the essence.” Without a moment's pause, the armor-clad changeling headed for the cavern's exit, but his advance was cut short by a great deal of rustling and grunting coming from behind; he turned to see Bitter Tongue struggling with some sort of large satchel. "Is everything alright?"

The caretaker grimaced. “This baby pouch is always a nightmare to work with.”

***

Coco laid completely sprawled out on her cozy mattress, fully relaxed and undisturbed by the outside world, including the two feuding changelings who now simply glared and occasionally growled at each other in a silent quarrel. Her mind was filled with vivid images of her debut at the Gala.

Coco could see it all unfold so clearly: she would pass into the grand halls of Canterlot castle, accompanied by Queen Chrysalis in disguise; Coco would finally come face-to-face with Princess Celestia; she would bow and show her gratitude for the Princess's gracious invitation to the Gala; and in turn, the Princess would compliment all of Coco's efforts and hard work and say, “I'm back, and I've got company!”

The voice didn't match; at least, not to the Princess.

Confused, the earth pony opened her eyes, and she watched two familiar changelings enter her room with rather blurry vision. Fang's voice and signature fang made him rather distinguishable, but Bitter Tongue's satchel threw Coco off for a second. "Oh, Bitter Tongue! You made it!" she beamed as she jumped up off the bed. " And you brought a giant pouch... with a baby changeling? Is he yours?"

The caretaker gingerly removed the child from her pouch and set him on the floor. “Indeed. His name is Buggy Bite.”

The tiny changeling giggled at the mention of his name as he awkwardly scuttled about the room.

“Aww, he's such a cute little thing,” Coco smiled as she reached out to pick up the infant.

Instinctively, Bitter Tongue moved and pulled her child out the earth pony's reach, but she quickly saw the folly in her act. “Ah, I must apologize for being so curt. It's not that I don't trust you, but rather that I am a very protective mother, and I would not forgive myself if I ever let anything happen to Buggy. Surely you understand?” She nuzzled the youngling as he giggled again with a high-pitched squeal.

“Oh, no worries! I know what you mean,” Coco nodded reassuringly. "That's the sign of a good mother, is that she's always keeping an eye on her child, no matter where she is or who she's with."

"I'm glad you understand." Bitter Tongue looked back down at her child and gently whispered, “Nothing will come between me and you, my little one.”

Something came between the caretaker and her child.

Without warning, Sea More and Snack had begun fighting again, using their magic to chuck various items in the room at each other. Snack haphazardly hurled his own helmet at Sea More, which the defending changeling managed to deflect with his own, but with such force and poor aim that it sent the first helmet hurtling towards Bitter Tongue. The sharp impact of the metal casing knocked the wind out of the caretaker and caused her child to fly out of her grip. Luckily, the infant gently flopped onto the soft bed and let out a cheerful yelp as it landed on its back.

"Aw, oh, great... Now look what you've done!" Sea More snapped. "This never would've happened if you had just kept shut, but you just had to be stupid and make Miss Bitters pay the price!"

"Me?! I'm not the one who caused her to get hit with my helmet!" Snack snarled in retort. "You're just lucky that her kid landed on something soft!"

"I'M NOT THE ONE WHO THREW MY HELMET IN THE FIRST PL-oh..." Before Sea More could finish his sentence, the looming shadow of a very angry Bitter Tongue swallowed up the two guards and their arguing in an abrupt silence. The armor-clad changelings looked on in frozen terror as the caretaker glared them down with a cold fury the likes of which they had never witnessed.

“What is the meaning behind your juvenile behavior? Behind this... horsing around?” Bitter Tongue growled harshly in a tone of controlled rage. No response, not a twitch or a peep, came from Sea More or Snack. Fear had far too strong of a grip on them."Nothing? Not even the slightest bit of remorse?" Bitter Tongue's eyes darted over to Fang. “Cover my little one's ears.”

Fang did as he was asked and used his magic to block Buggy's ears with a few clumps of soft cloth. “You should cover your ears too, Coco," he quietly advised.

The earth pony frowned in puzzlement. "Why? What's Bitter Tongue-"

“DID YOU TWO STOP TO THINK, EVEN FOR A SECOND, THAT YOU COULD HAVE BROUGHT HARM UPON MY CHILD BY ACTING SO RECKLESSLY?!”

Despite all the yelling and terror she had experienced thus far, nothing could have prepared Coco for the magnitude of the caretaker's wrath. The earth pony jumped back a few inches at Bitter Tongue's outburst and immediately heeded Fang's original advice to protect her own ears from the booming voice.

"I WILL NOT, EVEN FOR A SINGLE MOMENT, TOLERATE SUCH INSOLENCE AND IMPETUOSITY WHEN MY CHILD IS INVOLVED. LET ME MAKE THAT CRYSTAL CLEAR.

Snack nearly tripped over himself as he made a mad scramble for the door, but his escape was quickly cut off by Bitter Tongue's sharp reaction and flashy use of teleportation magic. "I'm sorry, Ms. Bitters! I didn't mean to! Please don't hurt me!" Snack wailed, shivering in his armor at the caretaker's feet.

Bitter Tongue slowly leaned over until her face was mere inches away from Snack's. “I'm not going to hurt you. You know that,” she breathed through gritted teeth. “I just need you to be still for a while.”

Without warning, the caretaker used her magic to grab ahold of Snack and violently hoist him into the air. She shut her eyes for a brief moment, and when she opened them again, they burned with a fierce, green energy, akin to Queen Chrysalis, as she stared deep into the changeling's eyes.

Very much aware and fearful of what was to follow, Snack tried to block her stare with his hooves and avoid his fate, but his effort was for naught. A cold stiffness began to run up his body, and he began to flail about in a last-ditch effort to escape, but the creeping paralysis was too quick and too powerful for him. In no time at all, his squirming was curtailed, and Bitter Tongue let his motionless body drop to the floor.

Before Coco's eyes lay a stone statue of Snackrifice, its face contorted with fear and panic.

With a whip of the head, Bitter Tongue turned her attention to Sea More, who was still cowering in the very same spot. “Join your friend at his side,” she coldly demanded.

With his head hung low, Sea More meekly paced over to Snack's stone figure and sat beside it, visibly and violently shivering as he did so. No protest, no resistance - just remorse for the outcome of his actions and an uneasy preparedness for what was to follow.

“Look up at me...”

The changeling guard raised his eyes to meet Bitter Tongue's stare and accept his punishment.

"...and be still."

And still he became. With one look, the caretaker turned her second victim into solid stone. Sea More was left frozen in an upright slump, and a mix of ironed determination and uncontrollable sobbing plastered on his face.

With the dubiously dirty deed done, Bitter Tongue stood back up and gave a short sigh of satisfaction. “Well, I don't think they'll be bothering us anytime soon,” she remarked as she turned back around to Coco and Fang.

Coco and Fang simultaneously returned her comment with troubled chuckles; a feeble attempt at joining in the caretaker's joy, but it was all the optimism the two could muster, considering they had just witnessed their friends be turned to stone. "I'm certain they won't be making that mistake again," Fang said with a strained smile.

Without missing a beat, Bitter Tongue trotted over to the bed, picked up Buggy Bite, who was waiting for his mother with hooves outstretched, and gently set him on Sea More's stone-cold head. “Crawl away, my little insect.” It wasn't long before Buggy was scrambling all over Sea More's frozen body. The child giggled with joy as he stood up-side-down on the changeling's chin and waved to his mother. “Now that those two are sorted out and Buggy Bite's settled in, I think it's time we got down to... how does the phrase go? 'Brass tacks'?" Bitter Tongue re-joined Coco at the sewing desk. "So, why have you summoned me?”

“Oh, right. Well, remember last night, when you told me the reason you and the other changelings had to despise me?”

“Of course... but what does that have to do with me?”

“I think you, uh, mentioned that you have a friend who makes dresses for the Queen, right?”

Bitter Tongue's brow furrowed with disapproval. “Yes... but if your plan is to have me bring her here to assist you, I cannot say I approve of what you have in mind.”

“Really? But why?" Coco anxiously shifted in her seat. "I-If you explain the situation to her before she gets here, I don't think it'd be that hard to get along with-”

“The main problem would not be how well you two will get along, but how well the fabric you intend to use would work with her. I'm sure Queen Chrysalis has already addressed this issue of why we must use a special web-like silk for our clothing.”

“She did.”

“My point is, if the others wanted to help, they couldn't make any dresses, even if they tried. Fabrics stick to our skin, even when we are in disguise.” Bitter Tongue rubbed her arm with a shoulder, an indication the changeling's very body was an obstacle.

“But what if they have good ideas,” Coco argued. “What if they have sketches or concepts that I can use. What if as I work, they can give me suggestions on what to-”

“There is the other reason why asking for their help would be a poor idea.” Bitter Tongue walked back to Buggy Bite as the child chewed on Snackrifice's horn. The moment the infant saw its mother, it jumped and glued itself onto the neck of its caregiver. Even though Bitter Tongue smiled, her tone remained concerned. “The other reason is that the others hate you for taking work away from them. I doubt they want to help the one that caused them grief...”

“That is true...” Coco glanced at Fang as he kept a still expression. It was understandable to envious. To hate somepony for taking a job away from them. But then an idea came to the mare. “B-but!”

The exclamation alerted the mother. “But?”

Coco began to clammer at her own thought, “But what if they work for me and the queen at the same time.”

Fang interjected, “How is that possible?”

“Easy.” The mare was filled with joy, her mind fixated on a clever idea. “You see, if they work with me in making a dress, they also work for the queen in getting her what she needs!”

Bitter Tongue's right cheek lifted upright. “So what you are saying is if they help you make a dress...

“...then they can also tend to the queen's demands and still work for her! In other words, they can still work for the queen, and by granting me assistance!”

Bitter Tongue giggled into her hoof, “You are quite the pony.”

“Heh... I guess,” Coco scratched her head.

You are more than just a pony, Fang thought to himself with a small glint of happiness across his cheek.

“So, if you don't mind, can you bring your friend?” Even though Coco had convinced Bitter Tongue that her idea was a good one, the changeling still gave off an uneasy expression.

“I will go retrieve my friend. However...” Bitter Tongue placed her little one on the bed and it crawled into a pillow cover. “I don't know how she will react to your request...”

“You need to try,” Coco said.

The mother took a deep breath and exhaled as if the very thought bringing her friend would be the end of Coco Pommel. “Very well. I will do my best convincing her.”

“Thank you.” Coco approached the female changeling and reached her arm out toward her. Bitter Tongue flinched, not knowing what to expect. She felt the pony's arm reach around her neck and was held there for a few seconds. It was an alien feeling. Sure she has felt affection from others, both same and opposite sex. However, it was from her own kind, not a pony; specifically an earth pony. The emotion from Coco filled the changeling will happiness and a decent meal. Even though it was not a long embrace, it still gave Bitter Tongue what she needed: confidence in Coco Pommel.

The mother looked at her child. The youngling clung crawling about Coco's bed. “Before I go, can you both do me a huge favor?”

“What can Fang and I do for you?” Coco asked.

“Can you watch my little one? If I am going to find my friend, it may take some time. She could be anywhere in the hive.”

“Of course we can.”

Fang didn't like the idea. He looked at Buggy Bite as it tore its fangs through the pillow cover it was saddling. Fang then gandered to his frozen friends, locked in a stone case. I just hope nothing happens to the kid while Bitter Tongue is gone... I might end up like that!

“Alright...” The mother still looked uneasy. “Just... be careful with him. He is as fragile as glass. I don't know what I would do if something happened to him.” Fang quickly hated the idea of watching the youngling. He knows how changeling mothers can become when their children are harmed in any way. If anything ever happened to Buggy Bite... well, even Fang didn't know what would happen to him or Coco. “I promise we will take good care of him.”

“Okay.” Bitter Tongue made fast for Buggy Bite and nuzzled his little cheek. “Now don't you worry, my son. Momma is going to be back soon.” With a fast Eskimo kiss, the mother dashed out of the room in a hurry, closing the door with a slam.

With his mother out of sight, Buggy Bite's cheeks began to rise. “Oh no, please don't cry,” Fang begged.

The child's mouth slowly began to open and slowly inhaled air. “Umm... umm...” Coco tried to think of something to stop the infant. “Fang!” She pulled the changeling over to the bed and pushed the guard's face in front of Buggy Bite. “Make a funny face.”

“Wha-” Buggy Bite was ready to cry. Attempting to make a humorous face, Fang squinted his right eye and stuck out his tongue and said, “Bleh.”

Then the little one made a noise. “Echew!” Instead of a loud obnoxious cry, it was a brief and quiet sneeze.

“Aww, he just had to sneeze,” Coco smiled with delight and relief.

Fang on the other hoof, was in disgust. “AGHK, I HAD MY MOUTH OPEN!” The changeling opened the balcony door and flew a good distance away. Coco could hear a faint yell in frustration as she saw a black dot flying away from her room.

“Did you sneeze in Fang's face?” Coco asked as she waved her hoof at the child. In an attempt to reply, Buggy Bite lunged at the mare's arm and latched onto it. “Oh, you want to play.” Coco crawled onto the bed and laid on her stomach as the small one attempted to dominate the cream-colored arm. Without hurting him, the pony playfully tried to remove the changeling from her; however, to her surprise, the young one proved to be quite resilient. "You must be familiar with the newest game, Pummel Pommel." After a few minutes of playtime, Buggy began to loosen his grip. Moving quickly, he climbed onto Coco's back. “Hehe, now you want to go on a ride?” A small yawn escaped the child, answering the word “no” in the form of yawns and infant mumbles. Her back was warm on the changeling's belly and placed his face into Coco's mane. Aww, I must have warned him out. I guess I won at my own inspired game. The mare let out a yawn. I guess I am a bit warn out too. Her eyes became heavy. Maybe... just a small rest. Coco Pommel rested her head on her arm and quickly embraced slumber.

Moments after Coco fell asleep, Fang walked through the balcony door with a look of disgust still plastered on his face. He was about to insult Buggy for sneezing in his face when he noticed both the child and the mare sleeping soundly on the bed. Fang quickly changed his attitude to match the atmosphere with a calm and still stare. The changeling slowly walked past his frozen friends, observing their still expressions. Even though Fang has never been petrified, the stories he heard about being in such a state is miserable and uncomfortable. Because he had no way of helping his brother or friend, Fang simply left them and went toward Coco and Buggy.

Standing at the edge of the bed, Fang observed the mare. He began to feel something in his heart as it began to pick up a few ticks. Memories began to enter the changeling's mind, the floodgates of the past opening. Most of the memories were of Coco and himself and how they became friends. They were good thoughts and generated good feeling. However, he felt a small bit of concern through all of the past interaction he had with the mare. The generous affection she has been giving him was creating some unease in Fang's mind. He was hoping that Coco was not beginning to create any emotions other than a simple friendship.

But something magnetized Fang and he brought his snout close to Coco's, just a few centimeters from touching her face W-why do I feel this way? Why do I wish for you to not give me more love, even if I need it to survive...? Lifting his head, Fang looked at the child who was sound asleep on her back. Buggy snuggled close to his warm bed made of pony, the heat keeping his consciousness away from the world. Fang took a step back and looked at the two of them for a few moments. An image of him and Coco sitting side by side flashed in his mind. He quickly shook his head in disapproval. How disgusting! A changeling and pony?! Together?! The thought was almost sickening. And yet, the thought was also sweet; bittersweet.

He came close to Coco again, and after a short moment, the changeling sighed. Even if I wanted to... we will never become something more than just friends...

Looking at the child on Coco's back, Fang smiled. Maybe there is something for me and her... just mayb- Fang's thoughts were interrupted as Buggy sneezed in his face once again. Grunting in anger, the changeling yelled in his mind, WHY ME?!

***

“Come inside," Bitter Tongue said, her hole-riddled arm gesturing to the door that held the wretched earth pony.

“I... I refuse!” Silky Magot huffed. The large female changeling looked away from Bitter Tongue with a concerned look on her face. The light from a glowing sphere lit up a part of her face, the other half darkened.

“But you agreed to come along.” Bitter Tongue frowned at the sudden resistance her friend was putting up. "Don't make my trek across the hive to be in vane."

“Forgive my sudden change of heart, but I have changed my mind. I don't want to work for this pony... that's all.”

“But Silky, please understand-”

The large mare began to walk away in a slump. “I rather not work at all...”

“SILKY MAGGOT!” A loud voice bounced off the walls of the hallway. Silky froze and shuttered a bit as the sound harshly rattled her ears. In a flash of green, Bitter Tongue teleported before Silky. “This is not like you! I remember that you would do anything that would please the queen. You would work for days! Literally, days just to give the queen what she wanted.”

One blink of the eyes changed Silky's shocked expression to genuine pain. “Yes, that is true. B-but this is different.”

“No, it is not. Coco Pommel may not be one of us, but she wants to help us.” Silky slightly shivered upon hearing the comment. “The queen does not want to risk using a huge portion of our rations in a raid that could fail and leave us with little to no food. We are running low on food as it is, so Queen Chrysalis had no choice but to do this.” Bitter Tongue placed a hoof on her friend's shoulder. “I promise, this will please the queen. It will also give you work to do.”

Defeated, Silky let out a large sigh. “Fine. I'll work with the pony... But I won't like it!”

“I never said you had to,” Bitter Tongue said with a light-hearted smile.

The door to Coco's estate mocked the larger mare, as if the world wanted to remind Silky that ponies had life given to them is such simple and easy fashion. “Let's get this over with.”

As she was about to open the door, Bitter Tongue held an arm out in front of her friend. “Just, make sure you are quiet. I don't want you to startle my little one.”

Silky's jaw went slack. “Wait, you mean Buggy, your son?”

“Yes," the mother nodded.

“You left it with the pon-!”

“Shhh!” Bitter Tongue slowly opened the door and whispered, “Yes, I did leave him with her.”

“But why?!” Silky hissed.

“I trust her.” A look of shock fell upon the large changeling as she heard her friend's statement. She knew Bitter Tongue was very protective of her child, but it surprised Silky that she would leave her young one in the hooves of somepony she had just met so easily. Maybe Bitter Tongue knew the pony would feed Buggy unknowingly, so she could eat more of her rations. Silky's thoughts were interrupted when Bitter Tongue gasped.

“What is it my friend?” “Silky asked. The worst came to mind, believing something had happened to Buggy Bite. If that was the case, Silky was going to make sure the pony would pay with harsh punishment.

But the mother's expression bore a wide smile, removing all of Silky's ridiculous assumptions. “Look! Buggy is sleeping with Coco.”

A peer into the estate showed Silky the tailor's lazy attitude. “Looks to me that the pony is sleeping on the job.”

Bitter Tongue disregarded the insult and walked over to the bed while Silky remained at the doorway. A voice came to the left of her and said, “Good morning, Silky Maggot.”

Turning her head, she saw the scythe-wielding changeling standing beside the exit. “Good morning to you as well.” Silky managed to get herself to smile as she saw Fang, trying to mask her uneasiness. “How is the queen?”

“As sharp as her fangs.”

“I could have guessed, heh...” The mare's lips rose a little too high and Fang took notice of it.

“You look happy,” the guard spoke with no care.

“That's me, just a happy changeling-”

“It's not like you.”

“W-what do you mean?” Silky looked to her right as she saw Bitter Tongue slowly pick up Buggy from Coco's back, attempting not to wake the child. But to no avail, the infant began to whimper as his source of heat left him.

“No offense," Fang argued, "but you would rather have your wings clipped than accomplish a changeling's measly task.”

“What's that supposed to mean?! I care about Bitters very much. Why would I not want to help her?” The mother said a few calming words to tell the youngling it was her and Buggy's face lit when he saw Bitter Tongue.

“I know you two are very good friends. But even so, you are a busy changeling, even when you have nothing to do. If even one thing sets your schedule out of whack, it drives you insane. Especially when the queen sends you on a wild goose chase.”

A sharp scream pierced Silky's right ear and caused her expression to change into a guilty one. Looking again, she saw Buggy giggling as his mother blew into his belly. Coco looked very displeased from the child's loud volume and writhed about and slowly opened her eyes. Silky sighed, pained with the "royal guest's" presence. “I really don't want to help the pony...”

“Why not?” Fang asked, but was more focused on Coco's stirring.

“Because she took my job from me.” Silky bore her teeth, the memory of how Chrysalis told the hive a pony was going to be present in the hive when Fang returns with a dressmaker. She and the other tailors were insulted by the last resort Queen Chrysalis chose to use. The memory of Stitch crying herself to sleep tanned Silky's mind like a bright hot cutie mark being pressed on her hip.

“And yet Coco is giving you the opportunity to work.” Fang let out a sigh, bothered with the constant resistance Silky was presenting.

“But why must I work with her?”

“Would you rather be on patrol in the rain with my brother Snackrifice?”

Silky spat, “I'd rather lose the ability to fly than listen to him complain about how hungry he is all the time.”

Even though Silky had just insulted Fang's brother, the stallion knew how obnoxious Snackrifice can become. “So, would you rather wallow in your grief about not working for the queen, or put up with Coco and help her design several dresses?”

The question stung more than the bitter statement made against Snack. Because there was no work to be done for Silky, the only task she has been able to do is work the graveyard shift on the castle walls. Sure it WAS work, but not the work the changeling wanted. What's more was that because Chrysalis requested a pony to make a dress for the Gala, the queen has been focusing on that than her other trailers, thus, leaving them to not do what they crave: design attire.

Jabbing an arm in Coco's direction, the large mare glared at Fang with displeasure. “As I told Bitters, I am willing to help, but I won't like the fact that I am helping the pony.”

Fang, despite all the negativity toward Coco, he smiled and walked toward Silky. “Just give her a chance. She may not be one of us, but she is quite the character.” In unison, the two changelings looked at Coco as she continued to lay on the bed. Buggy was lying on his back as Coco dangled a hoof over his head as the child pawed his arms and legs, trying to grab the unreachable arm.

Without realizing it, Silky let out a giggle. A tap on her shoulder caused her to flinch. “See,” Fang said as he smiled at the Silky. Noticing she was being stared at, Coco smiled when her eyes met Fang. "Just expect her to ask a lot of questions." The male changeling left Silky, went over to the pony, and whispered something into her ear. After Fang finished, Coco got up from her bed and quickly made her way toward Silky, leaving the mother, child, and guard behind her.

As she walked toward the large changeling, Coco thought to herself, All right, don't worry. She may hate you, but Fang just told me she is easy to get along with... And I trust Fang.

Mustering up strength in her heart, Coco took a deep breath and smiled at Silky. “Hello,” she said reaching an arm out. “My name is Coco Pommel. I'm from Manehattan.”

Unaccustomed to a greeting from a pony, Silky picked up her right arm and slowly reached out as well; however, midway, the changeling's arm froze. The changeling was still unsure about working for a pony. After all, this is the pony who took her job from her, so there would be no surprise if there was any jealousy involved. Silky looked at her hoof, wanting to work for the queen, but not for somepony who stole something away from her.

Then the changeling heard the pony's voice. “Umm... I know you hate me, but...” Both of Silky's ears perked up upon hearing Coco. It took a few moments before Coco continued her statement. “...but, I just want to let you know that I didn't mean to take away your job. I know what it is like to have what I love taken away from me.”

“Really?” Silky spoke with curiosity.

“Yeah... It's a long story.” Coco's ears bent back in shame as her mind flashed with an image of herself throwing that caffeinated beverage that caused her many negative repercussions. “Regardless of what has happened to me, what is important is helping you and the other changelings to give them what is important: love, or in your case, food.”

It surprised the changeling for how much the earth pony was considering. After a short while of thinking, Silky managed to ask, “So you know what you are in for? Working for the queen?”

“Yes, I am. And what I am also aware of is I cannot make five dresses in the time that I am given.” The weight of Coco's situation bore heavy on her stressed mind.

Silky looked outside and saw the light-blue sky. “I would say it is about... 11am. If it were me, I could make eight in the time I was given.”

“But that is the problem... I am not like you or the others.”

“Of course you are not," Silky snorted. "I am a changeling and you are a pony. I am aware that you are nowhere near being like me or the others.”

Coco ignored the snide comment. “Well, I can give you an example of what I mean.” Looking over her shoulder, Coco saw Fang listening from afar. Bitter Tongue, on the other hoof, was still playing with her child on the bed. Turning back toward Silky, Coco continued, “Look at Fang for example.”

The changeling's eyes quickly glanced at the stallion before returning to the pony. “What of him?”

“Well, he has been able to stay awake throughout all of the night and still not look or seem tired.”

The changeling waved a dismissive hoof, the fact holding no weight. “To be honest, it's not all that impressive for a changeling to not have any rest longer than thirty hours. Many of us can work for three days accomplishing hard labor without rest.”

“Oh...” Even though Silky made Fang's all night watch look like a cake walk, Coco still used the facts given to her to her advantage. “Okay, think about it this way. I am in no way conditioned to work for a long period of time without rest, or I will faint from exhaustion.”

“True,” Silky nodded.

“Not only that, fatigue can cause me to lose focus and make my work in making another dress much more difficult.” Coco could tell her words were not reaching Silky and visually saw the changeling getting irritated.

“Where are you getting at?”

The fact that Coco was so desperate, it stressed her to the point of begging. “What I am getting at is this is why I need help.”

Silky did not give the struggling pony any sympathy. “I understand that you need help. But WHY do you need MY help?”

The question made Coco thing outside of the box. She knew she needed help so Chrysalis can receive her demands. However, the earth pony knew that the designer changeling needed more than a few convincing words; a push perhaps. Even though it was not her style, Coco decided to make a different approach. “Fine, you don't have to help me.” She turned away from Silky. I hope this doesn't anger her too much. “I- I doubt you have anything to show that you are even a decent designer anyways.”

Coco's hopes for not angering the changeling quickly evaporated. Silky stomped over to Coco, the hard ground managing to shake with every step she made. “How... DARE YOU INSULT ME! DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?!”

Somehow, I think I convinced her to work for me now. Coco gave a small look behind her and saw Fang and Bitter Tongue staring back at her with a slight bit of anger in their brows. They did hear what Coco had to say but didn't like the comment. I just hope they understand what I am doing.

“PONY!” The pony flinched and looked up at Silky Magot. “I ASKED YOU A QUESTION! DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?!”

“A... designer...?” Coco answered, trying to keep herself from panicking.

“I AM NOT JUST YOUR RUN AT THE MILL DESIGNERS! I AM SILKY MAGGOT! ONE OF THE QUEEN'S FINEST DESIGNERS IN THE ENTIRE HIVE! I WEAVE, SOW, STITCH, ANYTHING YOU CAN THINK OF WHEN IT COMES TO MAKING ATTIRE!” Silky brought her face onto Coco's. “So... do you think that I don't have what it takes to design a dress?

As Coco kept a calm face, her heart felt like it was about to jump out of her chest. Pointing an arm at the table where she had been working, the pony replied, “Show me by working for me.”

Silky made no hesitation. “Fine. I will make sure my work puts you in your place.”

With joy and relief, Coco pulled herself toward Silky and gave her a friendly embrace. “Thank you thank you thank you,” she said happily as she continued to hug the changeling. The friendly exchange surprised the Silky, Fang, and Bitter Tongue. Coco went from an insulting comment to a joyful attitude in a matter of thirty seconds. And because of Coco's quick change of attitude, Silky almost forgot why she was mad at the mare; probably because the pony was emitting a small dosage of love.

Making haste, Coco then said, “Alright, I will go get you a chair and a manikin. We have much to work on.” Just like that, Coco ran off to prepare for the next dress with her newly found co-worker.

This left Silky standing still near the entrance of the room, still trying to make of what just happened. Looking to her kind, Fang and Bitter Tongue both smiled, as if to tell Silky that she made the right decision. Maybe this wasn't a bad idea, she thought with her left cheek rising.

“Ready?” Without knowing it, Coco Pommel was right beside Silky with a happy look on her face. The sudden appearance of the mare made the changeling flinch again. Coco noticed her action surprised Silky. “Sorry for startling you.”

“It's fine.”

Silky's comment made the pony feel happy because she felt like she was accepted by yet another changeling. “Now let's go make those dresses.” As Coco walked toward her workstation, Silky remained still. She felt a slight bit of ease with working for the earth pony, but a small flame of hatred still burned in her heart. Closing her eyes, the changeling let the past flood her mind, remembering the queen's words.

Because of the current situation, I will not be needing you for the time being. Go about other business and assist the hive elsewhere.

A touch made Silky open her eyes and saw Bitter Tongue with a proud smile. “Go. Do what you were born to do.”

“Yes.”

Not even a few steps forward when Silky heard Bitter Tongue again. “Go and prove why you are the best.”

With the moral support of her friend, the large changeling found the energy to move forward to begin her collaboration with her new co-worker.

Approved by Others

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Ch6

Sometimes swimming with the current is the smart thing to do. Silky Maggot felt the same way as she walked to the earth pony who sat at the wooden desk. With every step, the changeling thought more about the situation, telling herself aiding Coco was a good thing. Pony or not, Coco was providing work for Silky and turning it down would have shown unreliability and disgrace toward herself and her kind. Besides, the task will eventually lead in assisting the queen and other gatherers going to the Grand Galloping Gala and help stockpile food for the hive.

As she got to Coco, Silky looked at a blank piece of paper that rested on the wooden surface. After letting out a huff of hot air from her nostrils, Coco said with a pencil in mouth, “I just have no idea of what to make...”

To the pony's left was her sketches of the previous dress. “I assume these are your concepts,” Silky asked as she pointed her hoof at the papers.

Coco pushed one sheet that rested on top toward Silky. “This was the final result for my previous dress.”

“That reminds me, do you have a dress prepared already?”

Without looking or moving, Coco said, “It's in the corner by the windows.”

Silky immediately found something beside the tall glass window but saw no dress. There was a brown drape that covered the entire body of a manikin. The changeling walked over to it and asked, “May I see it?”

“Please do. I would also love a critique.” Light scratches of pencil on paper entered Silky's ears, telling her that the pony had returned to work.

Only assuming the dress would be at least decent, the mare removed the brown drape with little anticipation. As the vision of Coco's dress entered Silky's eyes, the changeling calmly said with a smile, “Very nice.”

The sound of a pencil bouncing on the ground echoed in the room. “R-really?”

Silky didn't look at Coco, but she replied, “Yes. I do love this design in the breast region. The heart shape and the pearl necklace makes for a beautiful and stunning look.”

Because she wasn't looking, the changeling could not see Coco's joyful expression. The pony looked at Fang, who resumed his position back by the door and smiled back at her. Though he was quiet, he spoke through his body jester to her. Fang had his head held high and chest puffed outward, telling his friend she should feel more confident in herself. And she did. Having another changeling who liked Coco's designs gave a good reassurance that she did something right.

“There is one thing that bothers me...”

A small amount of Coco's newly obtained confidence evaporated. “What do you mean?” Wondering what bothered her critic, the pony got up and went over to Silky.

As soon as Coco got to the changeling, Silky said, “The pearls around the neck don't look appropriate. I say remove them.”

“Oh.” The pony was not displeased and took the feedback. It does look like they are a bit out of place.

“Overall, it is a good design.” Then the changeling scratched her chin. “Also...”

“Hmm?” Coco hummed as she looked to her co-worker.

“Where did you get this color scheme?”

Remembering her first time encountering the Queen, the mare said, “When Chrysalis-”

“Queen Chrysalis!” Fang called out, correcting the pony.

A rogue spool rested beside Coco's hoof. She threw the small object and said with a smug grin, “Oh be quiet.”

It didn't take long before the spool made a light knocking sound on the ground as it hardly reached Fang by a long margin. “You missed,” the stallion smirked as he stuck his tongue at his friend.

Suddenly a sharp pain poked at Fang's cheek. He heard the sound of the spool hitting the ground again as he winced in pain.

He then heard Bitter Tongue's voice. “No need to correct everypony.” The mother was lying on the bed as her youngling crawled around her like an insect interested about its newly found good.

Instead of responding to Bitter Tongue, Fang decided to keep quiet. After all, she is the one responsible for freezing his friend and brother in a cold and stony state.

“Anyways, where was I,” Coco asked herself aloud.

“The color scheme for your dress,” said Silky.

“Right! So when QUEEN Chrysalis was explaining to me what she needed from me, she showed me one of her dresses. I loved the color and the sapphire gem it had.”

Chuckling, Silky said, “I see you liked Silver Liner's piece.”

“Who is that?”

“Another designer for the queen and he is quite the tailor.” The changeling then lifted her head. “But not as good as I.”

Being playful, Coco nudged Silky. “Why don't you show me then?”

“Oh, with pleasure,” the larger mare said with a grin. Then Silky was quiet; lost in thought. She began to speak lightly aloud, her thoughts becoming words. “Blue-green is more of a foggy color scheme.”

“What's that?” Coco wondered what Silky was doing but was instantly hushed by a harsh “Shh!”

“Why not make a dress with royal colors... Wait!” Coco knew what Silky was up to. “Princess... not yet queen... light purple. LIGHT PURPLE!” Instantly, the changeling flashed away and surprised Coco.

The pony looked back at her desk and saw Silky quickly scribbling on the piece of paper. Coco briskly went over to her but as soon as she came close, the changeling held out her hoof at Coco, not wanting her to come any closer.

Silky was in a strong state of concentration. And Coco knew how any artist came become this way. The pony remembered how Suri gave her the hard task of making a new line of work for the fashion show that was held in Manehattan, just one day before the dresses were presented to the other contest participants. Because of the small time frame, Coco had to come up with several dress designs fast. Luckily, she had a lovely idea for the new line up: light night twilight. Coco had heard the rumors that Rarity had a close relationship with Princess Twilight Sparkle. When Coco was struggling to come up with an idea, she thought of how amazing it would be to have a friend who was a princess for ask for help. Then it hit her. With the fabric that Suri got from Rarity and the idea that Rarity had close relations with a princess, Coco created the line up that was presented at the Manehattan fashion show. The night it took her to make the dresses was long and hard, but the inspiration flowed right through her. Even when time was almost up, Coco still had so many more ideas to create with the fabric given, but she needed to make haste for Suri.

Even though the Coco's line up was no match for Rarity's, it was good to know that her dresses made second place; however, it didn't make Coco feel any better because she used somepony's fabric and not her own.

“This may take a while,” Silky said as she glanced at the pony. “Give me fifteen minutes.”

“Okay.”

Deciding to give the changeling some space, Coco walked away from the desk and over to Bitter Tongue and Buggy. “I think it is safe to say that she got a spark of inspiration,” she said to the mother.

“Indeed.” Bitter Tongue paid no attention to Coco as the boy chewed on her horn.

“Hey Bitter Tongue-”

The changeling cut Coco off. “Please, call me Bitters.”

“Alright. So Bitters, can I ask you another favor?”

Bitters levitated her son and gently placed him on a pillow. Buggy giggled when he touched down on the soft cushion. “As long as it helps the hive.”

Coco swallowed, not sure if asking for another request would be a wise choice. But the need for additional help overwhelmed the pony. “If I am not mistaken, Silky said that there was another designer. I was wondering-”

Once again, Bitters cut Coco off and was quick to predict the question by answering it. “How about I go and get the other designers.”

Coco did not know how to react properly and stood still with a slack jaw. “W-wai... really?”

“Think about it Coco, if you convinced my friend to work for you, I think you can convince the others.”

“Okay, I see what you mean.”

“Also...” Coco lifted a brow as Bitters continued. “Silky Maggot is a changeling who hates her schedule being changed. And yet, you convinced her to stay and help you. In other words, Silky is a changeling that is hard to convince and you managed to do so. That is why I suggested that I get the others.”

“Thank you.” It made Coco feel even more happy that Bitters was so willing to help. Feeling the need to say something, the pony said, “I'm just... glad I wasn't so judgmental toward you and the other changelings.”

“What do you mean,” Bitters asked as she levitated her child off her face and onto the bed.

“That I took the chance of working for...” Coco looked at Fang. “...QUEEN Chrysalis.” The guard chuckled. “But also, your kind doesn't seem heartless at all as others may say.”

Bitter's stroke Buggy's small mane. “We just do what we need to survive. That is what the Queen wants from us: the will to move forward, even through hard times.” The mother looked sad as her child looked up with confusion.

“What's wrong...?” Instead of an answer, Coco received silence. Even Silky stopped her scratching of pencil to paper for a while before resuming.

“Hey,” Fang said. He grabbed the earth pony's attention and gestured her to come to him; and she did. As Coco got close, Fang walked a bit toward her and brought his mouth close to her ear. “You tell no pony what I am about to say...,” he whispered coldly.

“O-okay...” The silent atmosphere confused the mare, but decided to listen.

“We were betrayed.”

“By who?”

“Two.”

“Two who?”

“That's all I will tell you...”

Fang pulled his head back and he too looked slightly depressed.

“We were betrayed by two. That is why we must survive...”

“And who were they?”

The guard hesitated to answer. He managed to scramble a response in order to keep a secret. “If I told you, you would question too many things. Besides, you are here to make a dress, not uncover why we do as we do.”

Trying to remove the tension in the air, Coco looked at Fang and said, “Well, I do hope that I am able to help the changelings in any way possible.” Once more, the mare reached around the guard's neck and pulled herself toward him.

Even though Coco didn't notice it, Fang enjoyed the comfort and the food he received from the earth pony, even though it embarrassed him. But he rolled his eyes, telling himself that she is here to work. Nothing more.

Looking at Bitters, Fang asked, “So I am assuming you are going to go fetch the other designers.”

“Actually, I will need some help getting the other three.”

“Do you need my help?”

“Well...” Bitters looked at the two frozen changelings, Sea Moor and Snackrifice. “I will need their help as well.” She turned to Coco and asked, “Can you watch my small one for a moment?”

“Of course.” Coco easily climbed onto the bed as the mother got up and walked over to the petrified duo. Because Buggy's new playmate had just returned, he screamed with delight and pounced onto her face.

While Coco and Buggy played, Bitters had a bitter look on her face. As soon as she approached Sea More and Snackrifice, the mare said to them, “Now I am sure you have learned your lesson. Do not mess around while my little one and I are near.” With a harsh glare, the two stallions changed from their white stony appearance to their normal color. They both gasped for air and collapsed to the ground, grateful to be moving again. However, their recovery was short lived when Bitters said, “Now, were you two listening to everything that happened?”

Snackrifice was quiet, but Sea More responded, “Yes I was. I am also pleased to hear that Silky Maggot was so easily convinced.”

“I was not 'easily convinced!'” Silky barked as she heard Sea More's comment. “I... decided to give myself something to do for the time being.”

"Whatever. Also, I did hear you request yourself to go and retrieve the other three tailors.”

“Well, that is the reason I unfroze you two. Because Coco has until tomorrow morning, we need all the minds of the other designers to help aid her and give the queen what she needs.”

“So you want yourself, Fang, Snackrifice, and I to go and retrieve them, yes?”

“Actually, I will be staying.”

“How come?”

“To watch my little one of course. I have to teach this evening, so I need to spend as much time as I can with my son before giving him to the daycare center.”

Sea More didn't have any complaints with the suggestion. After all, he was more than willing to help out Coco.

“I will only help if I get some extra rations for the evening,” Snackrifice complained. When the changeling was not on duty, he preferred to eat and sleep. Turning his head, Snackrifice looked at Coco and said, “Alternatively, she can give me a good amount of affection and I may be good to go.”

“Egh?!” The pony's face turned rash red as the changeling looked suggestively at her.

Fang became offensive. “You cannot force love out of somepony you know.”

“You just want her all to yourself don't you.”

“Oh shut up!” Fang looked away from everypony, trying to hide his embarrassed face.

“Don't make me have to use excessive force again...,” Bitters warned. Quickly, both Fang and Snackrifice seized their arguing and remained quiet. “So, do you three know who to look for?”

Let's see...,” Sea More pondered. “Silver Liner, Stitch Snitch, and Knight Cap, right?”

“Correct.”

“Do you know if they are doing anything important?”

“The only thing I do know is that they are not making any clothing for the Queen. If they were given a chance, I am sure they would want to make something for her.”

“Okay.” Sea More looked at his two fellow guards and said, “Let's get a move on. We don't want to keep our royal guest waiting.”

Coco smiled upon hearing Sea More say “royal guest.” The more time she spent with the other changelings, the more she enjoyed their presence.

“Umm...” Fang looked unsure, as if he was hiding something.

“What is it Fang,” Coco asked.

“I mean, I am for helping you, but umm...” The changeling looked around for a moment before directing his attention to Sea More and Snackrifice. “Would you two go and fetch the others while I stay?”

“And why is that, Fang?” Sea More had a smug look on his face.

“To watch Coco- I mean! T-to stay guard and make sure she is safe- or umm... not have... others try to toss her off the balcony again.”

Without allowing Sea More to answer, Coco came up to Fang and said, “It is very nice that you want to stay and make sure I am safe, but I think nopony will be bothering me anytime soon. Also, I would like to have the other designers here as soon as possible.”

“Oh, heh. Yeah.”

Fang had an awkward grin, feeling stupid about his question he just asked.

“I think we better get a move on before Fang tries to think of another excuse to stay,” Sea More said as he nudged his friend. Fang replied with a harder push because he felt that he made Coco feel uncomfortable; however, she was more oblivious to Fang's attitude more than anything.

Turing to leave, the three guards made their way out the door to obtain the remaining tailors. Fang was the last one to leave, hoping that Coco would give him another hug, but she instead stood where she was before and gave a simple wave.

As the guards went down the hallway, Sea More asked Fang, “So, how do you feel about her?”

“Who, Coco?”

“Yeah. You seem very... attracted to her.”

“I AM NOT!” Fang was unaware of his outburst and the other changelings who walked by looked at him in confusion. He looked down, wanting to hide his blushing face, but he couldn't. Fang changed into his unicorn form, but that still couldn't hide the red color in his face.

“Brother,” Snackrifice said with a concerned tone. “Just be careful...”

“I know... I won't become attached.”

“Maybe you should,” Sea More beckoned.

“Sea More,” Snackrifice glared. “Don't give him any ideas.”

Sea More thought to himself, If only you had my mentality, Snack...

***

The whir of a sewing machine filled the room with noise. Silky stood at a distance as Coco held the dress, getting each stitch in its appropriate place. After a few moments, the earth pony sighed and looked at her co-worker. “It's done.”

“Well, what are you waiting for? Place it on the manikin.”

Coco did as she was told. Very carefully, she drew the dress over the still figure. Taking a step back, Coco asked, “What do you think?”

Silky brushed several of her hairs out of her face. “Hmph. I am surprised you were to capture my visual image. My ideas are great, are they not.”

Giggling, Coco rolled her eyes and looked at her, or rather, their dress. It was a rather simple dress, but functional to say the least. The dress had a transparent light purple fabric that sat on top of a darker shade of light purple. On the backside was the same color as the darker hue, but had a large, thin bow that sat on the midsection of the manikin's spine. On the breastplate was a series of diamonds that specked the front of the dress, like stars in the night sky. No features were given to the head of the manikin because Silky assumed Chrysalis' hair would be done in a different fashion.

Looking over her shoulder, Coco saw Bitters and Buggy, sleeping soundly on the bed. The infant was on his mother's head, though she didn't seem to mind.

“Well done, Coco.”

The complement surprised the pony. She looked at Silky who looked down to her and smiled.

“Thank you for helping me make this for the Queen,” Coco spoke.

Coco could feel her heart pound with happiness.

Silky looked at the balcony. “I... guess I was wrong to hate you...”

'I guess' she says.

The changeling was quiet. She just kept staring at the dress. Happy. And so was Coco. Not only did Silky complement her, but she also called her by her name, a sign of true respect.

An unknown amount of time passed during the silence. As Silky looked at the dress, Coco wondered if the other designers would come, and if they did, how long it will take.

More time passed and Coco decided to get a little bit of rest. She went over to the desk and took a seat, putting her face down. After what seemed to be hours, Coco was awoken by a nudge on the shoulder. The friendly face of Fang came into view as she writhed herself, stretching her tense muscles.

“Hello,” she greeted her friend as she lazily reached an arm out to him. Coco would have fell over if Fang didn't stretch his neck out for her to catch.

“I have the other three designers,” Fang said.

Any amount of tiredness that Coco had was gone immediately upon hearing this. Looking at the doorway, three new changelings looked at the pony, along with Silky standing beside them. Getting up from her desk, Coco made her way to them. Fang followed her; however, he went back to his original position and watched over the room once more.

The pony looked toward the bed to see if Bitters and her son were still here, but they were not. She assumed they left. Snack and Sea More were also not present, and also assumed both had other tasks to perform and disregarded the fact. What was important were the designers.

“H-hello,” Coco said nervously. “I am assuming you are the other tailors.”

They nodded.

“Well, it is nice to meet all of you.”

Again, they nodded.

Coco felt very awkward because none of the designers were saying anything. Looking for a way to get them to talk, she said to them, “Would you like to see my dresses?”

They didn't speak, but again, they nodded.

I'm not surprised they are giving me the silent treatment. Coco remembered how it took Silky a while before she got used to her, so she understood why the three were acting the way they were.

When they got to the dresses, Coco pulled them side by side and said, “So what you like or dislike about them?”

The male tailor moved from the group of them and walked around the light-purple dress, with a distasteful look on his face. “This dress is too basic. The simplicity of it disgusts me.” He then looked at the green-blue dress. “Now this! This is some great design.” Looking at Silky, he said, “I presume you made this stunning dress.”

Coco interjected. “Actually, I made that dress. Silky made the light-purple one.”

“Oh...” The male changeling's ears folded back as his eyes met Silky. She looked quite peeved.

“So my dress is to simplistic it disgusts you, huh?!”

“I- I thought- you were the one who made this,” the stallion gestured to Coco's dress.

“If you must know, Silver Liner, the REASON I made a simple dress is that the idea is simple and sweet.” At this point, Silky was in Silver's face. The other two changeling designers were laughing at the small scuffle between Silky and Silver.

As Silky backed the cowering male into a corner, one of the changeling's spoke to Coco, “I will have to admit, I do like both of the dresses. Especially yours.”

“Mmhmm,” the other changeling mumbled.

“My name is Stitch Snitch and this is Knight Cap.”

“Hello.” It was easy to distinguish the two female changelings because Knight Cap wore a night cap; an appropriate piece of apparel for such a name.

“Silver Liner, Stitch Snitch, and Knight Cap, right?” Coco asked.

“Mmhmm,” Knight Cap nodded.

Coco looked at both Stitch and Knight. Stitch seemed more accepting to her, while Knight Cap continued to stare back with an expressionless look on her face.

Stitch came up to Coco and said, “Sea More told me that you are doing this for not just the hive, but to help the children.” Turning her head, the changeling began to sob. “I- never thought there would be a pony in this world w-who would care about us.”

“Oh, don't cry!” Coco begged.

“I'm sorry...” Waving a hoof at her face to calm herself down, Stitch gained her composure. “I'm just a sensitive mare is all.”

Coco hesitated slightly. “Would you... like a hug?”

Answering only with action, Stitch quickly moved toward Coco and gave a close embrace. Coco felt warm tears splash onto her shoulder as the changeling began to weep once more. “OH THE GENEROSITY YOU POSSESS!”

She sure is quite the character, the mare thought. After a long moment, Stitch finally removed herself and wiped the salty liquid from her eyes.

Turning her attention to Knight Cap, Coco asked, “Did Sea More convince you to come along as well?”

Blandly, Knight Cap replied, “No.”

“Oh... Did Fang?”

“No.”

Does she always say no?

“No.”

Coco took a few steps back. Did she just reply to my thought?

“Yes.”

The earth pony couldn't help but feel vulnerable as she knew that Knight Cap can read her mind.

Deciding to speak, Knight Cap said, “Don't worry, your thoughts are safe with me.” Coco, however, didn't think so. “Anyways, when Snackrifice got me, he told me that you wanted my assistance. It was hard to read his mind because all he was thinking about was how hungry he was. So, I decided to come along and see what your mind had to say. And I too am convinced that you want to help the hive.” Knight Cap walked over to Coco and put her arm on the mare's shoulder and plainly said, “You are a good pony.”

“W-well thank you.” Coco smiled at the compliment. Such a nice changeling.

Knight Cap pulled her cap over her head and quietly said, “Don't compliment me...”

Before Coco could even think of something to say, Stitch said, “Knight Cap is easily flustered by complements. So refrain from saying nice things about her works.”

“Okay...” Trying not to think of something that would insult the cap-wearing changeling, the pony went over to the wooden table and sat on her given chair. Looking to her left, Coco saw Silky scolding Silver as he cowered in a corner. “Since they will be at it for a while, why don't we get started on the other dresses, yes?”

“Mmhmm,” Knight Cap responded. Stitch nodded.

Placing her arms on the table, Coco began to think. So we have a blue-green colored dress and a light-purple dress. How can we add on to this line up of dresses? What have we not used?

“Have you thought of a dress with a hat?” Abruptly, Knight Cap pushed Coco to the side and took the pencil that rested on the solid wood and began to scribble on the desk. The pony was about to ask why Knight Cap was writing on the desk when Stitch gestured Coco to follow her, away from the changeling at work. Coco followed as Stitch went outside onto the balcony.

With her back turned, Stitch said, “Knight Cap has her way of doing things.”

“I... can tell,” Coco replied as she looked through the glass, seeing the capped mare scratching at the surface of the desk. Coco also noticed Silky and Silver were literally hovering over Knight Cap as she continued to work. An unknown amount of time passed as the mare stared at the three changelings. They were talking among themselves. Smiling and laughing as Knight Cap worked, enjoying themselves. It was a nice sight.

“Enjoying yourself?” To her left, Stitch stood in Coco's peripheral. The changeling smiled as she too looked into the room.

“It's nice... to see others happy and enjoying what they love the most,” Coco replied. She saw a light reflection of herself in the window glass. Her mane was a bit of a mess, considering she hasn't had the time to make herself look presentable. But the one feature that surprised Coco was the fact that her mirrored self was smiling. And she knew why: it was the happiness of the other changelings.

“I love happiness.” Turning around, Coco saw Stitch look in the distance, staring at who knows what. Coco did the same but found herself staring downwards, looking at the jagged stones that rested far below. “Maybe there is hope.”

“Eh?” Looking away from the pointy rocks, Coco looked at the changeling who smiled brightly.

Looking back at the pony, Stitch said, “Maybe Sea More has been right. Maybe there are others who will accept us.” Beads of water began to grow in Stitch's eyes once more.

“What did Sea More do?”

The changeling's tone changed, even though her expression didn't. “Will you please keep this a secret?”

“Sure.” Coco was confused.

“Sea More was the one who suggested to the queen to have a pony make a dress.”

Something in the earth pony's mind clicked. She thought of all the times she was with Sea More. Every time he was in Coco's presence, he never gave her any mean glares, any snide remarks, and nothing rude. In fact, he was the only one of two who stood up for her when Scar threw her off the balcony. Fang was the obvious second.

Looking back into the room, she saw the guard, standing by the door. And the longer she stared at him, the more she thought about the better times the two of them had had. And she remembered that he did stand up against Suri and how good it felt when he comforted her when she was feeling sad about Queen Chrysalis' “criticism.”

In reality, both Fang and Sea More were than different from the other changelings. Looking back at Stitch, Coco asked, “Do you know why Fang and Sea More are more nice to me and others?” The pony felt like it was a reasonable question, considering Stitch told her Sea More was the one responsible for Coco taking the job in the first place.

“All I can say on that is that Sea More has influenced Fang in accepting ponies. They are extremely close to each other, so it is understandable why Fang is kind for you.”

“But how did Sea More grow to like ponies? When did this happen? Who made him like other ponies?”

Deciding to go back, Stitch began to walk inside and said, “I don't know.” She looked at Coco. “Ask them yourselves. Or better yet, ask Fang. He is a close friend to Sea More.”

Before she was inside the room, the changeling stopped and smiled at the mare. “Now come. You have some dresses to create.”

***

To Coco's surprise, she and the others finished in no time. The sun was no longer in the sky; however, twilight hung in the air. Just before the final dress was complete, Coco had Fang fetch the Queen so that she may see the final products. Coco was applying the last dress to the last bare manikin as the other designers stood behind her. With the final pull, she was done. The Queen's request has been fulfilled.

Looking back, Coco asked, “So, how do they look everypony?”

Four pair of eyes looked back at her and the five completed dresses. They smiled in agreement as their eyes looked at each individual design.

“I like mine the best,” Silver Liner smirked.

“I think it looks to complex,” Silky jabbed back. “I think the green-blue dress Coco made is much more fitting for the queen.”

“Well, I doubt your dress will be chosen because of its simplicity.”

While Silver and Silky went at it again, Knight, Stitch, and Coco laughed at their bickering and made a discussion on their own.

“I really appreciate the help you have given me,” Coco smiled.

“It is our pleasure,” Stitch replied back.

“Mmhmm,” Knight mumbled.

Sighing, Coco plopped her flank down and held her head down. “I'm so tired. I need to rest...”

Before the pony had a chance to even blink, a knock on the door rang out. It opened and the Queen entered, along with Fang following behind.

“There was no need to knock, Fang,” Chrysalis said as she strutted in.

“You never knock when you come to my estate.”

A small rock struck the guard in the head. “Your 'estate' is a hole in the wall. You have no door, you nitwit. If you are trying to learn to have manors like a pony you might as well forget it.”

“Forgive me my Queen...”

As Fang rubbed his wound, Chrysalis slowly approached the five designers.

Knight pushed Coco from behind. “Look alive. The queen approaches.”

Once the Queen came at a close distance, all but Coco bowed. Very quickly, the pony corrected herself and did the same. “My queen,” she Coco. In unison, they all looked up at Chrysalis. “We have accomplished your task.”

“I see you have asked for assistance.” It was hard to tell what the Queen was feeling as she looked at the other tailors. Her expression was an unreadable facade with no emotion. Even Knight wouldn't dare read Chrysalis' mind to understand the emotion of the leader changeling.

Despite the late response, Coco replied, “Yes, I did ask for some help. And they did a wonderful job with creating some fantastic concepts.”

Finally, Chrysalis broke her concentration from her own kind and onto the dresses. She walked over to the six dresses that were aligned with each other.

“The dress on the far left is the first dress I made. You know, the one you-”

“What about the one next to it?”

Coco stumbled over her words, trying to keep up with the Queen. “O-oh, umm... That one is Silky's. Then the one next to her's is Knight Cap's. Then Silver Liner's, then Stitch Snitch's, and lastly, my latest design.”

Chrysalis was quiet. Her eyes never moved as Coco explained who's dress was who's. Then she spoke, “Make more.”

Deja vu

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It was all deja vu for Coco; it was the same reply that Chrysalis gave her before was now being repeated. Everypony was in silence. Nopony dared to speak. At least, the changelings wouldn't speak against their leader.

“You... want me to make more dresses?” Coco couldn't help but feel irritated at the Queen.

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“Because I demand it.”

“No, you don't.”

A familiar glare gazed into the pony's eyes. All the designers looked in shock and fear as they heard Coco turn aggressive toward Chrysalis. “What did you say, Coco?”

“I said 'NO you DON'T'.” She couldn't help it. Coco was upset, and not in a sorrowful way. “Why do you want more dresses? Do you have a particular reason for why you are not giving me any amount of critique?”

Once again, Chrysalis' face jumped at Coco and the pony flinched. The pony's knees shivered, but she remained stationary. “You don't get it, do you? I am your customer. And as your customer I demand more dresses.”

Without another word, the queen began to make her way for the door. She was about halfway when she heard the mare's voice again. “Wait!” Looking back, Chrysalis saw Coco pushing Knight Cap over to her; however, Knight Cap was not happy about being handled in such a manner. As Coco and Knight Cap came to Chrysalis, the pony said to the tailor, “Read Queen Chrysalis' mind and tell me what she is thinking.”

“W-why are you throwing me under the horse-drawn carriage?” Knight Cap shivered as she tried to back peddle away from the ruler of changelings.

“I need to know what she is thinking. We need to know!”

“Yes, Knight,” Chrysalis grinned. “Read my mind. Go on ahead. I DARE you!”

But Knight couldn't. The changeling just couldn't do it. She wanted to understand the Queen's thoughts, but would never invade her leader's mind. All Knight could do was pull her cap over her eyes and cower, hoping Chrysalis would disappear.

“I thought so.” Chrysalis began to walk toward the door. “Now, I have other things to attend to. Since you have worked so hard, I will give you three days to make any amount of dresses within that time. Don't disappoint me...”

Using her magic, the Queen of Changelings opened the door and walked out. Following her was Fang with haste. The door closed with a slam, and the sound was quickly swallowed by the still and quiet night.

Knight Cap broke the silence, “I... I'm sorry.”

“Shh,” Coco hissed. Knight looked at Coco with distaste as she heard the pony's snide remark. Then Knight knew that Coco wasn't trying to be rude, she was trying to listen. Coco heard voices on the other side of the door and she gently pressed her ear against the door to hear what was being said.

“What do you mean you are having second thoughts?” It was Fang's voice.

“I mean I am thinking about calling off this entire mission about going to the Grand Galloping Gala,” Queen Chrysalis' spoke next.

Coco was in shock. She wanted to kick the door down after hearing what she had just heard and give the queen a good shout of how hard she had worked. But instead of doing such a rash action, Coco continued to listen.

“But why? What about our food supply?”

“Fang...” It was a few moments before the Queen's voice was heard again. “It's not because of my hatred toward Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. They mean nothing to me. I want to call it off because I will not subject myself to even seeing that wretched witch, Celestia!”

Now Coco was glad she didn't storm out of her room. Confusion flooded into the pony's mind. Why does she hate Princess Celestia?

As if they heard her thoughts, Fang answered her question from the other side, “It's because of what she did to you one-thousand years ago, isn't it?”

“Yes.”

What did the princess do?

“You don't want to know,” Knight Cap said as she stood behind Coco. Even though the changeling didn't show much of any emotion, the female had a sad look on her face.

“What do you mean I don't want to know? Of course I do. I mean, I am here to help the hive obtain love. Maybe I could try and help-”

“You are here to make a dress, not create a treaty.”

Coco felt that she needed to know. But why don't they want me to know?

Knight Cap turned and said, “You ask too many questions,” as she went over to the other tailors.

Moments passed as Coco stood at the door while the other designers mingled quietly among themselves. The pony heard their whispers but could not decipher what they were saying. I just want to know... What harm will that do?

Then the door opened. Fang entered without a sound. His weapon hung in the air; its shadow looming over Coco. The changeling looked at the pony as she stared back at him, giving him a look of sorrow.

“So what now?” Coco spoke.

“Just do as you were told,” Fang replied.

“Did Queen Chrysalis say anything?”

“Nothing important.”

I know that is a lie. Looking at the four tailors, she went over to them and looked at dresses that were made. From left to right, Coco observed the created dresses. She saw her own dress and Silky's light-purple creation. The one next to Silky's was Knight Cap's.

Knight's dress had a light-dark blue body. Silver rhinestones specked the breastplate region and went all the way to the hips. The rhinestones were more abundant in the front, whereas in the back, the rhinestones were more spread out and scarce. The hem of the dress had a trim of white on the bottom edge of the dress. On the head of the manikin looked to be a large mage-like cap. It was blue and had a pointed end that sagged down. There was a large white rose that rested on the left side of the hat.

Next to Knight's was Silver Liner's dress. Even though he didn't like Silky's simple dress, his design was similar to hers. The front of the body was a simple white cloth that stretched over the breast of the manikin. Near the midsection of the dress was a large wavy blue fabric that was layered on top of the white cloth and went down the flank until it reached the back of the manikin's hind hooves. Around the neck of the white fabric was a fluffy blue hem that closely resembled cake frosting. Nothing covered the head because he also thought that the queen's mane will be done in a different fashion (that is if she chose his dress).

And lastly, of the changelings, was Stitch Snitch's dress. Her's was Coco's favorite. The entire dress was colored with a lovely dark-light violet, closely resembling Princess Twilight's body color. On the shoulder of the manikin were two thick golden strips of silk that crossed each other in the shape of an X at the center of the figure's belly. The strips also went across the back of the manikin, creating a few large diamond shapes before reaching the bottom hem of the dress' long skirt. At the skirt were fluffy balls of cotton, resembling the clouds that drifted through the sky. Hanging above the manikin's crown was a small halo that hung on a metal string, which was wrapped around the left ear of the manikin.

Then there was Coco's second dress. Half of the dress' color was white. However, despite the choice of a plain color, the detail of blue and gold made it shine among the other dresses. At the front of the dress, a piece of blue fabric was in the shape of a diamond, and the point of the shape reached the center of the piece's front collar and stretched down to the lower section of the manikin's torso. On the back of the dress was a strip of blue, covering most of the manikin's back. It went from the back of the dress' neck piece and stretched all the way to the skirt of the dress. At the border of every piece of blue was outlined with a thin golden rope, giving depth to the dress. At the hem of the dress was an array of small triangle points that reached around the skirt. At the head was a golden medieval helmet visor and rested above the manikin's forehead.

So much work has been done in the last two days and yet Coco Pommel had no idea what to do next. The earth pony sucked in air from her nostrils and then sighed in distress. But something was off; something smelled. She sniffed harshly. Then three times. Then her shoulder. It was herself.

It never occurred to Coco that she has been working for two days and she has not properly cleaned herself. She felt embarrassed that she was in such a state and wondered if the others thought harshly about it.

Looking at her co-workers, they looked back at her as if a large spotlight shone down upon her. Flustered, Coco asked, “I umm... hate to ask, but is there any place I can... bathe?”

“Yes, there is.” None of the tailors answered. It was Fang. He moved from his position from the door, leaving his large weapon behind. “There is a spring above ground we use.”

Coco sighed in relief. "That's good to hear. Can you take me there?”

“Of course.”

“Oh, thank you.” Making haste over to one of her briefcases, Coco opened it up and pulled out a towel. She threw it at Fang and said, “Hold this,” without warning.

When he grabbed it, Fang went to place it on his back. However, there was a problem. The towel stuck to his hoof. Violently, he tried to shake it off but it remained glued to him. Then it occurred to the changeling that it was a cloth fabric. Any kind of fabric, other than spider silk, would stick to a changeling's body.

“Are you... okay?” Coco asked.

“Yeah, I am fine. I just... wanted to try your towel on.”

Fang blushed as the towel was stuck on his face; though it was good that it was stuck to his face so Coco, nor the others would see his red expression. Nonetheless, the tailors laughed at Fang.

***

Rushing water was heard as Coco walked beside Fang in the starry night. She was walking outside on the edge of the cliff side, up against a stone ledge. Several lanterns lit the way as the light posts reached up from the ground like some possessed tree root. Even though Coco walked near the wall, she would glance every now and then toward the edge, wondering where the bottom was; however, every time she looked, she thought of the dreadful incident with Scar Splash.

The four tailors followed from behind as they mingled among themselves. They decided to come along as well because they had nothing better to do other than lay around and wait for the queen to order them to make something for her.

Coco and Fang reached a corner that sharply turned to the left. As they rounded the bend, the pony saw where the sound of rushing water was coming from. A waterfall from a high above place cascaded water down into what looked to be a large pool. There were several lanterns lit the way and the same type of light shined through the water. The sight reminded Coco of fancy homes that always seemed to have a complex and interesting pool design. What she was looking at now was something that far exceeded the beauty of a makeshift body of water in an expensive home.

While the pony continued her walk with Fang, the others flew on ahead and went toward the body of water.

Coco and Fang were one again alone. Because of the absence of others, Fang spoke, “It's nice out.”

“Oh.” Coco looked up and saw a beautiful array of spots in the sky. “You are right. In the city, it's hard to see even one star because of all the lights.”

“Well, now you get to see what I see on an every evening basis. It's nothing special to me really.”

“It is to me,” Coco smiled. Fang looked back at the mare with a quick glance and a smile. Then Coco had a thought. “Hey, Fang?”

“Yes?”

“Why are you and Sea More so nice to me?”

The changeling stopped. “Why do you ask?”

“You two are different. I mean... your brother is nice, but he is... umm...”

“He's stupid. Don't worry about him.” The pony laughed at Fang's comment toward his own kin. “Yes, Sea More and I are different,” Fang continued. “We have different views on ponies and think that they, including yourself, can help us.”

Having another question pop up in her mind, Coco asked, “Are there any others like you and Sea More?”

“No.”

“How come?”

Fang didn't answer the question; he replied with, “You ask a lot of questions.”

“I just want to know. Knowledge is power right?”

“It is, but let's ask and answer questions later.” Fang then had a change of pace. He began to walk faster than he was before, leaving the mare behind.

He is hiding something... But what?

Let's Find Out

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Coco tried to make haste, trying to keep up with Fang, but his fast pace made it hard to keep up with him, so she decided to walk instead. It took little time before she made it to the falls. She looked ups at the falling water, wondering where it came from. The light from the pool was at the direct center, under the water and was a lot brighter than it was from a distance.

Coco heard the other changelings talk as she drew closer and closer to them. When she got off the stone staircase, she went over to her acquaintances and asked, “So can I just get in?”

“If you want to,” Silky said. “But it is a bit cold.”

Walking over to the water, Coco noticed the water was held in a hollowed out stone hole. She noticed a leaf on top of the water as it drifted toward what looked to be a crude makeshift dam that was made up of a pile of rocks and sticks. Several areas of the pool were deeper than others; however, most parts were shallow. If Coco had to guess, the pool was about fifty yards.

Curious on how the water temperature was, Coco dipped her hoof in, expecting a slightly lukewarm feel to it. Instead, it was cold; really cold. Shaking her hoof, the pony shivered and asked, “Is it always this cold?”

Fang approached her from behind. “It gets colder as the night goes on.” Fang gave her a smile as Coco gave a concerned look.

“Well, why have me bathe when it is cold at night? Can't we just wait till morning and hope it gets warm?”

“You forget who I am,” Fang said with his head held upward. He then buzzed his wings and flew over the center of the pool. Slowly, he descended into the body of water. With a raise of his horn, a red color flashed from it. Suddenly, a huge plume of hot mist rose into the air.

Quickly, the air grew humid and hot. Without hesitating, the tailors quickly jumped into the now hot body of water. Some of them regretted the choice because it was too hot, while others hummed to themselves in happiness by the heat. They moved toward the dam slowly, chatting amongst themselves once more.

Coco took caution as she dipped her hoof in the pool, just to be sure she doesn't boil her blood. One inch, then two, then her leg, then her entire body. Before she realized it, Coco forgot to take off her collar before she entered the water and caused it to get wet. Regardless of that, she untied the light-blue sailor collar and placed it on her towel.

The water consumed half of her belly and her legs were fully submerged. She wanted to sit down but decided not to do so just yet. Noticing Fang at the center, Coco moved toward him as she wadded through the water. But as she got closer, the water continued to get hotter. It got to a point where the pony could not get any closer without scalding herself. Wanting his attention, Coco called out, “Umm, Fang!”

His concentration was snapped and he turned to see the pony behind him. “Do you need something?”

“I just wanted to say thank you for doing this for me,” she smiled.

“Anything for my friend.” The word “friend” left a strange taste in Fang's mouth. He was not yet used to saying such a word to a pony.

Standing still for a few moments, Coco asked, “Can I talk to you about a few things?”

Fang knew what she was going to go on another questionnaire, so came up with a reasonable excuse. “If I move from here, the water won't stay hot for very long, so I need to maintain the temperature.”

“Alright.”

The changeling noticed that Coco didn't like the answer. “Why don't you go with the others? I'm sure they don't mind you anymore.”

“Yeah, you are right.” I think talking to them would also help me think of a few more dresses for the queen... even though I don't want to make another.

Coco went over to the other changelings as they talked to one another. As soon as the pony went over to them, their conversation slowly died and turned their attention on her.

“Sorry,” Coco said. “I didn't mean to interrupt.”

“Not at all,” Stitch said with a smile. “Why don't you sit down and enjoy the heat. We don't normally have Fang heat up the pool very often, so consider this a lucky break for you.”

Taking the advice from the changeling, Coco slowly began to ease herself deeper into the warm water. She then quickly sat down in the water. For a brief moment, the hot water stung, but then the heat began to comfort and ease the pony's stresses. The water reached up to the lower region of her neck, giving her a comfortable sensation. Coco let out a happy sigh as she closed her eyes, listening to the roaring sound of the waterfall. Before she wanted to talk to the tailors about what should she do next. But with the warming water soothing her muscles, the only thing Coco wanted was to not be disturbed. Unfortunately, her wish was not granted.

“Hey, Coco,” Silver spoke. Coco turned to the changeling to acknowledge his calling but didn't reply. “So... what do you have planned now?”

The pony let out a sigh. “I have no idea...”

And once again, it was quiet; except for the waterfall that continued to cascade water into the swimming hole and the water that trickled through the cracks of the makeshift dam.

The four tailors at each other, almost communicating through eye contact and body gestures. They knew that Coco was in distress because of the queen's demands. After all, they do work for the Queen of Changelings. But even with four minds, Silky, Silver, Knight, or Stitch couldn't think of anything to try and help the poor mare. It was hard to come up with another concept because Queen Chrysalis was giving them no hints as to what she wanted.

Finally mustering up the courage to at least approach the pony, Stitch went up to Coco as she held her head low and had her eyes closed.

“Are you enjoying the heat? Silky asked.

“Yeah...”

Silky reached out her arm and carefully placed it on Coco's shoulder, hoping to not startle, nor upset the pony. “Just... worry about the queen's demands until tomorrow, okay? You have three days to come up with something.”

Coco opened her eyes. “Yeah, you are right.” She smiled. “I was so caught up in thinking about a new concept when I have a few days to finish my commission. I guess it is hard to remember you have breaks when you are constantly working.”

“Well, you can take a prolong break,” Silky said. “Just be sure not to forget the queen's demands.”

“You know...” Coco scratched her chin and looked at the four changelings. “You know, whenever I rebel against Queen Chrysalis, you all look so... petrified.”

“Of course,” spoke Silver being the first to respond. “Do you want to know what happens when we go against the queen's wishes?” The stallion was silent and still with fear.

“I don't want to know,” Coco said very quickly.

“Good. It's best that you don't know.”

Looking at the water, Coco saw her reflection that had a slightly creased brow. The pony was pondering, wondering what to do next. Sure she had a few days to get her task completed, but couldn't shake off what she overheard Chrysalis and Fang.

I am thinking about calling off this entire mission about going to the Grand Galloping Gala.

It's because of what she did to use one-thousand years ago, isn't it?

I will not subject myself to even seeing that wretched witch, Celestia!

So many things were left unanswered. Also, Coco wanted to know what Fang was hiding. She wants to know how he and Sea More grew to be kind to her and other ponies. Then an idea popped into Coco's mind.

“Can I ask you all a question?” the pony asked the four changelings. They all nodded. “Do you think Queen Chrysalis will harm me in any way if I go against her wishes?”

The four tailors looked at each other, then back at the pony.

“I don't know. The queen has never held a pony captive in her kingdom.”

Coco suddenly stood up. “Let's find out then.”

Shut Up!

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Silky, Stitch, Knight, and Silver looked at Coco with confused looks. “What are you getting at?” Silky questioned.

Coco smiled, “Forgive me, but I am not going to do what the queen asked.” Even though the pony wore a happy expression, she felt quite nervous about her decision.

Instantly, all four tailors jumped away at hearing Coco's statement. Silver and Stitch held shocked expressions, Silky carried a bitter glare, and Knight wore a slightly creased her brow as they stared at the pony. “Did I... say something wrong?” Coco asked.

Instantly, Silver flashed in front of the pony. “Of course you did! You are about to make the worst mistake of your life!”

“Why would you put yourself in danger?” Stitch said as her snout nearly pressed against Coco's nose.

“How could you defy the queen?!” Silky exclaimed as she stomped through the water, advancing toward Coco's position.

The three changelings surrounded the now frightened mare. “Umm... umm!” Coco panicked. Why did I have to open my mouth?!

At once, Silver and Stitch began to talk with a panicked tone, trying to convince the pony that she was about to make a horrible choice, while Silky began to swear and insult Coco, telling her that she is a fool to ignore what the queen has demanded.

The volume from the three tailors was too much for Coco and she put her hooves over her ears, trying to mute the cluster of noise that was being exclaimed to her. No matter how tightly packed her ears were, the words from the three tailors crept into the mare's ears. All Coco could do was hold them tighter. But the tighter she pressed her ears closed, the louder their voices became.

All of the yellings reminded Coco of her old boss, Suri, and how she yelled at her, screaming demands and insults. She hated the memories of being yelled at. She hated the memories of insults Suri barked at her. She hated the memories of how helpless it made her feel.

Like a tightly sealed carbonated beverage after being shaken, Coco was about to burst. And she had just about had enough. “SHUT UP!” Coco yelled at the top of her lungs, hurting her throat in the process. Her voice echoed through the night, bouncing off of invisible surfaces that rested in the dark. Immediately, Silver, Silky, and Stitch became quiet.

“What is going on over there?” said a voice from a distance. Everypony looked to see Fang leering at them. Seizing the opportunity, Coco quickly ran through the water as quickly as she could, escaping the surrounding changelings and went toward the waterfall.

“Coco!” Stitch called out to the mare. But as expected, the pony did not look back.

“Idiots...” Knight said with a shake of her head. Silky, Stitch, and Silver looked behind them to see Knight, who stood quietly behind them.

“Who are you calling an 'idiot?'” Silky barked with her teeth bared.

“Now now,” Stitch said as she reached out an arm to stop Silky from approaching Knight.

“Did you three not see that you were making her uncomfortable?” Knight asked as she mimicked Coco by holding her hooves up to her ears.

“She deserved it,” Silky snapped, turning her head toward the waterfall as she saw Coco hide behind the veil of water. “How dare she! Going against the will of Queen Chrysalis...”

“You could have asked her 'why do such a thing' instead of insulting her, Silky.”

“Alright, Ms. Mind Reader, tell us then. Tell us why she wants to betray Queen Chrysalis!”

“She doesn't want to betray the queen,” Knight shook her head again. “Also, I think you need to talk to him first before you get anything out of me.”

“Hugh?” Silky was confused for a short while until she turned to see a pair of burning eyes that would melt forged metal.

“Perhaps you didn't hear me,” Fang said. His sharp tooth burned a bright red-orange as if it was pulled from a hot furnace. “What... happened...”

Even though Silky glared at Fang, her heart began to race and her spine began to quiver. “She... was going to betray the queen by ignoring her request.”

“Half of that is a lie,” Stitch Snitch grinned as she looked at both Fang and Silky. Instead of opening her mouth again, Silky remained silent.

Very slowly, Fang came close to Silky, pressing his face against the tailor's face. Silky winced in pain as she began to feel a burning sensation on her forehead as Fang continued to apply pressure. “Stitch,” Fang asked as he continued to press against Silky. “Tell me what happened and why were you, Silver, and Stitch here were harassing Coco.”

“We weren't harassing-”

“I DON'T GIVE a flying feather about what you weren't doing.”

Stitch then began to grin in pain as her forehead began to receive more heat. “Just tell him!” Silky yelled, hoping the pain would stop.

“Say another word and I will burn a hole through your skull...” Fang warned.

Stitch lifted her front leg, ready to help her friend in distress, but went against the idea. Instead, she continued to respond what Fang had asked. “Coco said that she was not going to do what Queen Chrysalis had asked.”

“You're joking, right?” Fang asked as he rose his brow.

“I-I'm not... I don't know why she doesn't want to do what she was told...”

“I do,” Knight Cap interjected. Fang removed himself from Silky and looked at Knight Cap. Silky quickly retreated to Stitch and Silver as she rubbed her forehead.

“Then tell me,” Fang said, “Why she does not wish to do what Queen Chrysalis had asked her?”

“Go ask her yourself.” Fang glared at Knight, thinking she was trying to be sarcastic. “I may not be the best when it comes to helping a pony with their problems, but I can assume you are the only one she will open up to. Am I wrong?”

No... You are right...

“Then go talk to her.”

“I will.” Fang's wings quickly came to life and lifted him from the waters. As he drifted through the air, Fang looked down at the four tailors. He saw Silky leer at him in his peripheral, but he didn't make eye contact with her. Turning through the air, Fang leaned forward and went toward the waterfall. Those idiots! If they expect any work from Coco, they should give her space and let her do as she pleases! Steam vented off of Fang as he continued toward cascading veil of water. Taking a deep breath, the changeling calmed himself and removed his frustrated expression. Fang reached the waterfall in very little time. He looked at the falling liquid, knowing the pony was behind it. But... why does she wish to not give into Queen Chrysalis' demands?

Thinking about why questions were not going to get them answered. Slowly, he moved to the side, where the water wasn't falling. He saw a pony. A pony with a pair of gloomy spheres that looked down at the water. She was facing his direction and knew he was there, but ignored his presence.

Fang frowned and went behind the waterfall, slowly descending to the mare. Touching the water, the changeling's wings slowly began to stop and Fang sank his body in the water. His heart began to quicken as he drew closer to the earth pony. The light beneath the water created a light-blue layer on both Fang and Coco as they remained across from on another.

Calmly, Fang asked, “Coco, are you okay?”

At a snails pace, the mare got up and wadded through the warm water, drawing closer to Fang. As soon as she got close to him, they both simultaneously sat down. Leaning her head forward onto Fang's chest, Coco Pommel quietly replied, “No...”

Half

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It was quiet under the falls, or rather, it would have been quiet if it weren't for the roaring water that fell beside Coco and Fang.

Fang looked down at Coco as she rested her forehead on his chest. Her eyes stared down into the water, then toward the falls, trying to see through the blur that the water created as it fell from above, and wondered what the other tailors were doing and where they were.

“Fang...?” Coco asked calmly.

“Yes?”

“Can I sit next to you?”

Rather than answering, Fang stood up and went over to the pony. Coco looked up at Fang as the changeling sat right next to her, leaving a few inches of space between them. “I have a better question,” Fang requested. “May I sit next to you?”

Smiling, the mare replied, “It's rude to ask somepony to do something for them and then do it without their consent.”

“At least I made my- f- friend smile.” I can never get used to calling her my friend...

Like a magnet, Coco leaned her head onto Fang's shoulder. “You are too kind.”

The changeling looked toward the stone wall so that Coco wouldn't see his awkward grin. Then Fang remembered the reason why he needed to see Coco, aside from checking up on her. Only after a few moments of silence, Fang asked, “Coco, why do you wish to go against Queen Chrysalis' wishes?”

Removing her head from the changeling's shoulder, Coco stood up and stared outside of the waterfall, looking toward the starry sky. “Because I have no choice.”

“What do you mean?” Fang asked.

Coco's eyes drifted toward the changeling. “Because nopony... or... changeling... is answering the questions I ask. I need to force them out.”

“You do ask a lot of questions, and-”

“And what?”

“You- are here to make a dress. Nothing more.”

Suddenly, Coco moved a few feet away, she had her flank facing Fang. Fang was dumbstruck at the way Coco was acting. Normally when something was bothering her, she would go to him like a bee attracted to a flower. But now... now she was acting differently.

“Am I not your friend?” she calmly asked.

“Huh?” Fang replied in a confused tone.

Turning around, Coco asked once more, “Am I not... your friend?” The pony's face held a mixed expression of concern and seriousness as she stared into the changeling's eyes.

“Of course you are my friend,” Fang replied without hesitation and creased his brow in slight confusion.

“Then why are you so hesitant on answering many of my questions?”

“There you go with your questions aga-”

“Answer my question, please,” Coco begged as her eyes shimmered along with the surface of the water as the light danced upon the small waves.

Fang was at a loss. The way Coco stared at him made him freeze. She spoke with compassion and desperation. He could feel how badly she desired an answer. So he gave her what she wanted. “There are secrets that changelings have that I cannot share.”

Coco blinked and the shimmer in her eyes were gone. She sat down once more, facing Fang. “I understand, Fang. Forgive me for pestering you...” Again, Coco blinked and the shimmer returned to her eyes.

The changeling wanted to approach her but kept his distance. “Can I ask a question, Coco?”

“You may,” she said as she looked down at the water.

“Do you... trust us?”

Looking up, Coco asked, “As in, all the changelings?”

“And Queen Chrysalis.”

Coco slowly digested the question. She thought about all that has happened in the last few days. Aside from being thrown off a balcony, not much harm has come to her. Fang stood up for her against Suri's sharp insults, Sea More protected her from Scar Splash, Bitter Tongue, along with the other tailors, have at least become her acquaintance, and the children...

The children. They stuck in her mind the most. Even though their favorite game was most likely Pummel Pommel, the young changelings were at a young stage of innocence. She remembered how they looked at her with not hatred, but curiosity.

Coco also remembered the small, long-braided filly changeling, who asked her a simple and innocent question: “Do you like us? Do you really like changelings?” The look on the little one's face would make a hardhearted stallion give her all the affection in the world as if she was his own. The filly wanted to trust Coco, even though she knew her parents would think otherwise. And of course, Coco said “yes” in response to the little changeling's question.

After giving it much thought, Coco answered Fang's question, “Yes, I do trust you and the others.”

Taking in a deep breath and then huffing out of his nostrils, Fang then said, “Then I trust you with the secrets I hold.”

“You mean-!”

“Yes, I will answer your questions.”

“Oh, thank you, Fang!” Coco said, overjoyed upon hearing him. Her arms wrapped around the changeling, tightly holding Fang close. “Thank you,” she said again.

Fang took a deep breath, and let out a deep sigh, smiling as he exhaled the held in air. “Your welcome.” I swear, if you keep this up, I may never have to feed off of rations again, he thought as he absorbed the affection from the pony.

Breaking their embrace, both Coco and Fang moved a few inches away from each other, giving each other space.

After a few moments of quietness between the changeling and pony, Fang asked, “So, what would you like to know?”

Without hesitation, Coco asked, “So, who's idea was it to look for a tailor to create a dress for Queen Chrysalis?”

“Sea More.”

“I could have guessed,” she shrugged.

“Then why ask the question?”

Playfully, Coco pushed Fang's shoulder as the two of them chuckled at his question. “He is a lot more friendly than you.”

“I'm sorry, who here has been giving you moral support?” Fang raised his brow.

“I'm sorry, who here is giving you love to feed off of?” Coco asked as grinned. Just before Fang turned his head, Coco saw the slightest tint of blush as he pursed his lips in embarrassment.

“Anyways, ready for the next question?”

“You promise not to embarrass me?”

“Of course,” the pony smiled.

“Alright.” Removing his flustered expression, Fang looked at Coco and said, “You can ask another.”

“Okay. So, was it you, Sea More, or both of you that had a good view about ponies?”

“Sea More. I used to hate ponies with a burning passion.”

“I could assume why you would have a burning passion, Mr. Inferno Fang.”

“I still have more to say,” Fang spoke as he ignored the pony's attempt in humor. Coco silenced herself, ready to listen to the changeling. “Sea More convinced me that ponies fear us because of what we are, but there are others who may accept us. You being in front of me proves to me that there are others who accept us.”

“Well, I just came to realize that you and the other changelings are like ponies; trying to live life and move forward through hardship and success.”

“Exactly why I trust you.” Fang smiled brightly as he looked at his friend. His large tooth glimmered as his cheeks moved upward.

Coco giggled at the sight of Fang's happy grin. Slowly, their smiles slowly faded as the changeling awaited another question to be asked.

“Alright, next question: Since you said Sea More is the one who convinced you that there are ponies who will accept you and other changelings, how did he grow to have such a mentality?”

This time, Fang was hesitant. “I-I...,” he stuttered.

“You can't answer it?”

“I can answer the question. However... You must not tell anypony or anychangeling.” Fang's expression spoke for how serious he was. His brow creased downward, not in a display of intimidation, but an earnest gaze.

“I promise,” Coco replied, anticipating the changeling's answer, almost holding her breath.

“The truth is... Sea More is different from every changeling here at this very hive.”

“Why is that?”

“He is half pony and half changeling...”

Something inside Coco Pommel made her laugh.

Hydra Effect

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Who you Work for
Ch.11

“W-why are you laughing?” Fang asked in question.

“I'm sorry,” Coco chuckled. “It just seems so silly to me. You just told me that Sea More was 'half changeling and half pony', right?”

“That is correct.”

Trying to keep a straight face, Coco replied, “It's just... I was expecting you to tell me more than just 'half changeling and half pony'. It sounds like something from a movie.” Coco spoke in a deep sarcastic voice, “He comes from the hive but has the blood of a pony. He truly is... Two Sided. Dun.. dun.. DUN!”

Fang sighed, “I thought you wanted me to answer questions, not to laugh at my response.” He was slightly smiling for a moment, but it quickly went away. “I still have more to say. So with all due respect Coco, please ask your question and listen to my reply.”

The changeling's expression reassured how serious he was, so Coco kept herself silent.

“Anyways, Sea More is what I call a halfling.” Coco chuckled a bit, but Fang furrowed his brow to keep her from laughing any further. “As you could have guessed, Sea More had a pony and changeling parent. His mother is a unicorn and his father is a changeling.”

Fang paused, allowing Coco to speak once more. “So, what happened to his parents?”

“Well, if you want the full story from Sea More, you go ask him. I will give you the short version.” The pony nodded. “Sea More's father left his mother shortly after his birth for... reasons.”

“What kind of-”

“Ask Sea More yourself.” Again, Coco nodded. “As Sea More grew up, he and his mother were ridiculed from their hometown and were forced to move.”

Frowning, Coco said, “That's horrible...”

“There is still more. When Sea More and his mother moved to Manehattan, Queen Chrysalis came to them and offered Sea More a place where he would be accepted and not be shunned by others. Thus, Sea More is now one with the hive.”

Even though Fang had just told Coco where Sea More was from and what he is, her answer was not answered. “You still have not told me why he cares about ponies. I mean, he was ridiculed by others, and yet, he still shows care toward me and perhaps others.”

“It was his mother. She taught him that you should not hate everypony just because they think you are different. Others hated him for what he was and not who he was.” Fang was quiet for a moment. “And Sea More showed me that truth. He showed me that almost everypony, not everypony, hates us changelings because they do not know of our past. All they know is of what we do and what we have done.”

Coco scratched her chin and asked, “You said almost everypony, right? Who doesn't hate you or your kind.”

Without thinking to hard, Fang replied, “On the top of my head, Sea More's mother... and...” The changeling looked into the pony's eyes and smiled.

“Me?” Coco replied with a smile, glancing at the wall, avoiding eye contact.

“Yes. You being here in front of me proves that there are some who do not hate us. That is why I am like Sea More. That is why I am not like the others. And that is why I am your f-friend.”

“And I am glad Sea More has convinced you.”

“But he has not been able to convince the Queen Chrysalis...”

Fang's statement brought another question to mind. “Why has he not been able to convince her that there are others who will accept her?”

“It is because of Princess Celestia.” As the changeling finished his response, he glared at the water, almost trying to boil it with his gaze. “That wretched princess is why our beloved queen is in such pain.”

There was a moment of silence between the two of them. Coco was hesitent to ask another question because of how Fang was reacting. What did Princess Celestia do to Queen Chrysalis? Did she hurt her? Is... is the princess really somepony she is not...?

“Something troubling you, Coco?” Fang asked.

“M-maybe I asked a bit too many questions...” she frowned.

Fang shook his head. “I told you before that if you knew too much, you will begin to question things you wish you hadn't.”

“But... is Princess Celestia...”

“Evil?”

“Yeah...” It surprised Coco on how spot on Fang was.

The changeling shook his head. “Not in the slightest.”

“Why do you say that?”

“She raises the sun, she has accepted Luna back into her life after her own sister betrayed her, and above all, she has allowed Discord, a creature of pure chaos, to be set free and do almost as he pleases. In other words, Celestia has done more good than harm to the world.”

“Oh,” Coco said as she sighed with a good sense of relief.

“So there is no need to worry about your princess being a cruel leader.”

“That's good.” Taking a nice, long stretch, Coco said, “I think I am done with asking questions.”

“You mean you have nothing more to ask?”

“No, I have plenty more to ask. However, I think it is best to stop pondering about things and begin relaxing in this nice warm pool.”

“I agree to that,” Fang smiled.

“But I do thank you for answering some of my questions.”

“Well, what are f-friends for?”

Coco giggled a little bit as she leaned in and gave Fang a close embrace. “You really are a good friend, Fang.”

Slowly, Fang reached around the pony, pulling her in close. He closed his eyes, enjoying the comfort of his pony friend. Neither of them spoke for a while as they continued to hold each other. The two of them somehow found it difficult to want to let go. Perhaps it was the fact that they had never had a friend that would comfort them in a time of need. Regardless, it was a moment that both Coco and Fang are enjoying.

Suddenly, a voice spoke from behind Fang, “What's going on over here?” At once, Fang and Coco jumped away from each other, hoping nochangeling was snooping in on what the two of them were doing. Looking at where the voice came from, they saw Sea More standing at the opening of the falls.

“W-what are you doing here?!” Fang blurted out as he kept his face hidden from Coco as he blushed.

“I am here to take a bath,” Sea More said as he smirked. “What are you doing here, or better yet, why are you here all alone with her?”

Sea More looked at Coco who was smiling, but still embarrassed at being caught clinging onto the queen's personal guard. “We were just talking,” the pony replied with a nervous chuckle.

“Really,” Sea More replied. He then walked over to Fang, who was still trying to avoid looking at Coco. Sea More then asked Fang in a low volume, “Are you two...” Then speaking in a whisper into Fang's ear, “...getting frisky?”

Fang tackled his friend with full force, the two of them crashing into the wall. Coco screamed at the sudden act as both changelings disappeared under the water. A few seconds passed and they reappeared to the surface. The long toothed changeling's fang burned with fury as he rammed Sea More with his cranium, causing his friend to fly through the falling water.

Face red, Fang yelled, “I am going to kill you!” He then ran through the falls, ready to attack Sea More the moment Fang saw him. Just as he ran through, Fang did find Sea More quite quickly. But just as he was about to pounce his friend, the changeling noticed something that he wished he had known earlier. As Fang looked around, hoping what he saw was an illusion, several dozen changelings stared back at him in confusion.

Behind the waterfall, Coco stood by herself, wondering what set Fang off. She then heard him yell, “What are you all looking at?!” Several voices replied in response, but the volume was drowned out by the falls, making the words indistinguishable.

“Fang,” Coco called out loud, but there was no response from him. Feeling the need to know where he is, she decided to walk through the falling water. The cold water chilled the pony's body as it harshly pored over her. Though it did feel a bit refreshing, considering she has been in the hot water for quite some time.

Coco's hair draped over her eyes as she appeared on the other side of the falls. Pulling her arm to her face to remove her mane from her vision, the mare asked, “Fang, who is out here? And why did... you... attack...”

The pony's voice was taken away from her as she saw the mass amount of changelings staring at her and Fang. Sea More stood a few feet away from Fang as he had a slight grin on his face. Slowly, she walked over to Fang, knowing he was the only one she felt comfortable near.

Many of the changelings glared at the three of them, while others talked amongst themselves.

“It's that pony again.”

“What is he doing with her?”

“Why has the queen chosen such a pathetic looking pony?”

Mocking questions and statements made its way around the large cluster of changelings, each one stinging Coco's ears. But even though the insults from the others upset her, she knew better than to reply and would rather keep quiet.

“Now now, everychangeling,” Sea More said out loud, gathering the attention of others. “There is no need to insult her.”

More noise came from the crowd.

“Shut up, you pony loving freak!”

“She is nothing important to us.”

“Why should we care about a pony who has come to replace us?”

Coco heard the last remark. “I am not here to replace you. I am here to help!” she exclaimed aloud trying to reason with the changelings. At once, the group seized their insults and leered at the pony once more.

“Coco, what are you doing,” Fang asked in a wispier, worried that the others may retaliate against her.

“I know what I am doing,” Coco replied without having to speak low. She looked at Sea More who looked impressed by her act of speaking out at the crowd of glaring changelings. On the other hoof, Fang wanted to stop his friend from talking to the others, but somehow wanted to see what she was going to do. Taking a few steps forward, the pony looked right to left, feeling slightly intimidated by the sheer amount of her crowd. As she looked to the left, her eyes were glued to a small group that were by the dam. There, she saw the other tailors looking back at her with no mean look in their eyes, except for Silky. Despite the large group of changelings, Coco was used to being in front of a crowd, thanks to Suri forcing her on stage several times in order for her boss to show off her assistant to the audience.

Alright Coco, just keep calm and just let them know who you are.

Taking a deep breath, the earth pony spoke aloud, “My name is Coco Pommel. I come from Manehattan and am a fashion designer. Out of sheer luck, Fang here chose me to make a dress 'fit for a queen.' And ever since I have arrived, I noticed that you all have not liked my presence one bit, correct?”

Many of the changelings blinked at one another, exchanging glances, nodding at Coco's question. Coco continued, “I have also found out that you feel that I am here to replace you. That Queen Chrysalis is no longer resorting to your kind as an option, right?”

As Coco asked her question to the crowd, a good amount of them looked downward, as if they had heard some terrible news while others nodded.

“Well, I am not here to replace you. All I am here to do is to help you obtain what you all need: love. That is all. And I am more than willing to help your kind. I may not know what you all have endured, but I promise you, the task that Queen Chrysalis has given me is more than me just getting payed, it's about feeding you all. Especially the little ones...” A nice smile found its way on Coco's mouth. She couldn't help but feel giddy every time she thought of how adorable the young changelings looked.

A voice spoke from the crowd, “But you hate us, right?” Mumbling began to grow among the changelings.

“Yeah, she isn't one of us.”

“She must dislike us.”

“Of course she does.”

Clearing her throat, the group's volume slowly died and all attention was drawn on her again. Again, she spoke, “You may think I do, but I don't hate any of you.”

The changelings looked like they saw a ghost. They almost wanted to disbelieve her.

Again, the same voice spoke from the crowd, “Why not? Why don't you hate us?”

“Why should I?” Coco replied. “I know that changelings feed off of love, but you need it to survive, right?” An exchange of looks followed by nods. “Then I have no reason to hate any of you. I don't know how you live your lives. I don't know your reasons for doing what you do. What I do know is that you are all a family and some of you have children to care for. And I have seen the little tykes. They are one of the cutest things I have ever seen.”

“If I said that I hated you all, I might as well kick dirt into their eyes as well. And why would I do that? Just as I said as to why I don't hate you: I have no reason to do so. Just like me and other ponies, you all have to live your own lives, trying to survive in the world. That is why I am helping; to help you grow and survive.”

There was nothing more for Coco to say. She said what was needed to be said. As she looked at the crowd, the group of changelings looked different, particularly at the way they stared at her. There was no more angry glares, but instead, curious stares.

The changelings were amazed to see a pony, who had only been at their dwelling for such little time, be able to accept and help them.

Looking back at the tailors, Stitch, Silver, and even Knight looked at her with smiles. Silky still looked at her with uncertainty.

Then something caught Coco's attention. She noticed that somechangeling was moving through the crowd, advancing toward her. The one moving toward her was a female changeling with a long mane that goes almost around her entire face, like a vale.

As soon as the changeling came through the crowd and into the open area where Coco, Fang, and Sea More were, a filly changeling walked in front of the adult, pulling at the arm of the taller guardian.

“See mommy, I told you she was nice,” the little one said as she looked up at her parent. Coco immediately knew who the little one was.

“N-now Teethling, your father and I told you to not talk to those who you don't know,” the mare changeling said with uncertainty in her voice.

“But I do know her,” the filly replied as she relentlessly tugged on her mother's arm. It was the child from the daycare the night before. She remembered how the little one touched Coco's heart as Teethling told her that her father wasn't eating enough. But thanks to Coco, her father might begin to eat more.

“Hello Teethling,” Coco said to the child with a smile.

“Don't speak to my child, pony,” the mother hissed as her wings jetted out, ready to pounce. Instantly, Coco stepped back a few paces, keeping her distance from her and the protective parent. Fang took a step forward, trying to keep the mother from doing anything rash.

As soon as Coco began to step back, Teethling rushed at Coco, hopping through the water to gain distance from her mother. With a quick lunge, Teethling clung onto her torso; she dangled as she held onto the pony.

“Teethling!” the parent yelled as she moved quickly through the water. “You get over here this instant!”

“But she is the one who will give us love,” Teethling replied as she tried to turn her head to see her now angry mother.

By this point, the mare changeling was only a few feet away from Coco, not as angry as before, but still she leered at the pony. “So... you are the one who will give us love,” she asked.

“Yes I am.” Even though I just told you and everypony here that I am here to help the hive, I guess you wanted to clarify. Coco noticed that the child was slowly losing her grip, so she lifted up her hoof and held Teethling. The mother flinched as Coco moved her arm, but quickly relaxed herself.

“I see... my child has taken a liking to you.”

Coco smiled as she looked down at Teethling, “She's a cutie.”

Teethling suddenly exclaimed, “THERE IT IS! I FELT IT! I FELT THE LOVE!” Immediately, the child let go, plopped into the water, and began pacing around the pony. Then Teethling began to jump up and down. “MORE! GIMMI MORE!” she chanted.

“Then come here,” Coco said as she reached an arm out and pulled the filly close to her.

“Mmmm,” Teethling hummed as she burrowed her snout into the pony's chest. “It tastes so good. It's never has tasted this good before.”

Instinctively, Coco began to look around at the crowd and saw smiles on their face. They saw how happy Teethling was behaving and how Coco cared for the little one. Even the mother had a happy smile on her face.

“Wow, I...” the mother said, astonished at what was going on. “...I never thought I would see my child held by a pony, let alone this happy with a pony.”

“And I never thought I would be in this type of circumstance,” Coco replied with a smile. “But I am here now and I will do anything to make sure you all get what you need.”

As if a magical spell had fallen over the entirety of the changelings, there were no more angry stares, no more insults, and above all, no more hatred. Instead, the changelings had a different opinion about the pony; they saw her compassion for them and urge to help.

But what truly convinced them to trust Coco was how Teethling was behaving. The child was behaving so happily around the pony as soon as she began giving affection to Teethling. After all, a child's innocence shows the most truth.

“I told you she was nice, Mommy,” the child replied. “Now she can help feed Daddy some more, too.” Once more, Coco heart was flooded with emotions. She remembered Teethling's statement from two days ago: Maybe once we get all the love we need, my daddy can start eating more. Because of the child's statement, Coco feels more obligated to help the changelings, not that it was a bad thing.

“I know she is telling the truth,” Teethling said as she continued to take in as much love as possible.

“And how do you know that,” Coco asked as she held the child.

“Because Queen Chrysalis said true love does not lie.”

Coco Pommel took in the information that was just given to her. It was interesting to note that the changelings know when they are being fed based on what was given to them. She remembered how Chrysalis absorbed the love from the painting the first time she met her. In other words, any amount of caring emotion that was put into something, whether it is something artistic or simple signs of affection from a pony, will translate into food for the changelings. The amount of love that will be received was unknown to Coco; however, judging at how Teethling was reacting to Coco as she held the child, Coco could assume that she gave a lot.

Walking forward, the mother glanced away and then looked at Coco. “Sorry for getting angry with you,” she said as she reached for her kid. “I am just a protective mother is all.” As Teethling was removed from her source of love, she attempted to remove herself from her caretaker by wiggling her arms around.

“Don't worry,” Coco replied with a smile as she saw Teethling struggle to become free. “I met Mrs. Bitters and she is just as protective as you.”

“I tell you, if anychangeling were to approach her child without her consent, she would become a temporary carnivore.” Both parent and pony laughed at the mother's comment as the other changelings began to go about their own business, forgetting about the pony, as if Coco was one of their own.

“I think she would rather turn them into stone,” Coco continued. In her peripheral, she noticed Fang and Sea More talking to each other. She overheard Fang wanting to talk to Sea More in private, so they left without saying a word to Coco.

“Mommy,” Teethling interrupted.

“Yes my little one?”

“Can I get some more love from the pony? I want to be sure daddy gets more of the rations tonight.” Again, Teethling's words tugged at the pony's heart.

Looking at Coco, the mother asked, “Is it alright with you?”

“Will your husband be eating well tonight,” Coco asked with a smile.

“You really are too kind.” Leaning down, the caretaker placed Teethling back into the water and the little one hopped over to Coco, hugging onto her leg. Instinctively, Coco held the child close to her, trying to give as much love as she can, though she didn't know how to control her power of love, if somepony were to call it that.

Coco then heard a voice from behind her. “I want some love too,” said a child in a pouting tone.

“She's all mine!” Teethling shouted.

“Don't be rude,” the caretaker said as she scowled at her child.

However, her mother's words only provoked Teethling. “Haha, she's all mine! She then began to chant, “No changeling can have her! Ha ha ha ha haaaa ha!”

A few seconds later, several changeling fillies and colts began to exit out of the crowd and appear around Coco. Several parents were trying to obtain their kid while other changelings looked at the sudden commotion.

“Why do you get to have the pony?!” shouted a colt.

“Because she is mine!” Teethling cried out as she clung onto Coco's leg, almost hurting her. If Coco were to have guessed, there were about twenty children around her. The sheer number of them alone made her feel nervous.

The children began to talk amongst themselves.

“If Teethling isn't going to share, how will we get the love?”

“I want to jump on the angel!”

“That's a good idea!”

“Pummel Pommel?”

“Yeah, Pummel Pommel.”

Coco's blood froze as she knew what was coming to her.

“PUMMEL POMMEL,” the colts and fillies cried out as they charged at the pony. Instead of helping Coco, Teethling's mother flew up into the air to avoid being caught in the action of the “game” Pummel Pommel. With nowhere to go, the pony accepted her fate and let herself be swallowed by the bodies of black.

Some of the parents tried to pull their little one's off of the pony while other onlookers smiled and laughed as the children struggled to get a hold Coco.

***

Once more, Coco found herself by the dam, accompanied by the same tailors that assisted her in creating several dress designs for Queen Chrysalis. This time, however, she was holding a small filly close to her as the parent stood nearby. There was a line of changelings that went along side the pool starting from the dam's left and went a short distance before reaching the end. Many children stood with their caretaker, be it a parent, friend, or relative, and stood anxiously as they waited to obtain their fair share of love from the pony.

After the game of Pummel Pommel was ended, a large number of children complained that they wanted the amount of love Teethling had. Knowing that she is now a walking source of nutrition for the changelings, Coco suggested that the children should stand in line with their parent or guardian and wait be held for two minutes each. Of course, the colts and fillies agreed with the idea; the older changelings did like the idea, but some of them were slightly skeletal about having a child being held by a pony they knew nothing about. Some small talk among the changelings emerged, and then they agreed with Coco's proposal. When Coco told them where they should wait, the overzealous children charged over to the dam and began fighting over who was first in line. Quickly, the parents went over and calmed the group down before the commotion got out of hoof.

About twenty minutes have passed since Coco had begun giving love to the children, and over that period of time, she and the other changelings, including the tailors, were talking amongst themselves.

“So it was Sea More that spread the word that Fang was at the bathing pool,” Coco asked a changeling who sat across from her.

“Yes,” the changeling answered. “Whenever Fang goes to the pool, he is normally accompanied by the queen. Meaning, that when the two of them are here, she does not like to be bothered. So when Fang is accompanying somechangeling else, word spreads like vicious locusts on the hunt for crops.”

Lovely analogy... Coco thought to herself as she looked down at the filly as the child looked up with shiny blue eyes.

“We hate the cold water,” the changeling continued. “Lucky for us, Fang is considerate to let us use his power for our personal needs.”

Coco nodded as the changeling finished their sentence. She wondered where Fang was, but remembered that he went to have a personal conversation with Sea More. She also wondered why Fang attacked Sea More in a fit of rage. But because his presence was no where near her, Coco couldn't ask him why.

“Alright Soft Bite,” said the parent to the child Coco was holding. “It has been two minutes.”

“Aww, just a little longer,” Soft Bite complained.

“It won't be fair for the other children if you get more than them.”

As soon as the parent leaned forward to grab their child, Soft Bite grabbed onto Coco's arm and grinned at her mother. “No, I want more!”

“Now now,” Coco said to the filly. “It's some other changeling's turn.”

“Your not my mom!” Soft Bite barked.

“Alright, that is enough,” the parent said with anger in her tone. The mother used her magic of levitation to pull her kid off of the pony. But Soft Bite was resilient and held on tightly, refusing to let go. “Let... go... now...” Roughly, the parent shook their child, loosening her grip. But just as the Soft Bite was no longer attached to Coco's arm, she gnashed her teeth and bit onto the pony's ear. Even though Soft Bite's name was Soft Bite, it was not a soft bite; it was a painful bite.

“Ow ow ow, you are hurting me, dearie!” Coco pleaded as her face writhed in pain.

“Giff me wuvv,” Soft Bite growled as she refused to let go.

“Soft Bite,” the mother said in a soft tone. “Do you know what happens to changelings who don't listen to their mothers?” Upon hearing this, Soft Bite's bite began to not hurt as much, though the child still kept hold of the pony's ear. Soft Bite's eye turned toward her mother's gaze, showing that she was listening. “Do you know what happens to naughty changelings like you?” The filly shook her head. “They become a tyrant. They become somechangeling that nochangeling likes. Do you remember the story of Left Wing?” Soft Bite nodded. “Do you want to become like him?”

Slowly but surely, the child let go of Coco's ear. Who is Left Wing, Coco thought.

Levitating her filly onto her back, the mother said to Coco with the smile, “Thank you for feeding my little one.”

“It was my pleasure,” Coco smiled back and winced in pain as she rubbed her ear, hoping the hurtful feeling would go away.

“And forgive my child for hurting you like that. She is going to have a nice talk with her father about her attitude this evening.” Soft Bite was about to reply to her mother's comment, but the parent gave a mean stare that extinguished any attempts of back talk.

“Don't worry,” the pony said with an awkward smile. “I have been thrown off of a balcony and trampled by children. I think a small bite isn't going to cause me to ruin my visit here.” Even though it was true, Coco's swelling ear was beginning to irritate her.

“Again, thank you,” the mother said before walking away.

Coco's eyes rested on Soft Bite as she filly road on her mother's back. Looking back at the pony, the child said, “Sorry, Ms. Pony.”

“It's okay, I forgive you,” she waved back.

“If that was my child, I would have drowned the little freak,” Silky said with a dark grin.

The pony turned to reply to the harsh comment; however, Stitch was quicker, “Don't say things like that! If I remember, you had quite the temper when we grew up together.”

“I DID NOT!” Silky exclaimed. A hooful of changelings looked at Silky, wondering what she was yelling about. Embarrassed, Silky turned her head away, avoiding the stares of the other changelings.

Coco slightly chuckled before calling to the next child in line. This time it was a colt. He looked unsure about approaching and looked up to his father. The father gave a light smile and nodded. Instantly, the colt's eyes lit up and quickly wadded through the water and attached himself to the pony's back. The changeling slowly climbed up to the back of her neck, pulling her mane in the process. Even though the pain was uncomfortable, it didn't last very long, as the colt made himself comfortable and burrowed his snout into Coco's hair.

“You sure are energetic,” Coco said as she tried to see the child in her peripheral.

“He sure is,” said the father as he came to the pony.

There was a moment of no talking. As the colt was obtaining his share of love, Coco thought about what the mother told her child. It wasn't the scolding, it was the changeling she mentioned: Left wing.

Left Wing... Who was he... or she?

Curious, Coco asked the father, “I remember that that mother said something about Left Wing. Who was Left Wing?” At once, the changelings near Coco's vacinity heard her comment and looked at her. “Did I say something wrong?” she asked, wondering if she asked a horrible question.

“He was a bad bad changeling,” said a voice from behind Coco. It was the colt, and apperently he had been listening. “He lived a looooong time ago and tried to take the queen's-”

“Son!” the father barked, silencing his child. Coco felt the colt shiver upon hearing his caretaker's yell and held onto her neck tightly. Even she felt intimidated by the loud outburst and regretted asking her question. Calmly, the father said, “We all know the story of Left Wing, son...” She looked at the father who had a slight look of sadness.

“Sorry, father...”

Many questions shot through the mare's head. Who was Left Wing? What did he try to take from the queen? How long ago did he live? Coco thought she would never escape the mysteries of the changelings. Every time she thought she had an answer, two more questions would sprout, like a hydra who grows back two heads when you lop off one. Her head began to hurt with all of the unanswered questions that banged at the back of Coco's head.

Then, she heard a changeling from a distance say, “Queen Chrysalis approaches!”

All sound became void as everychangeling and one pony looked to see the queen, who stood at the center of the pool. Standing on her right was Fang, and to her left was Sea More. Instinctively, all the changelings lowered their head and bowed, honoring the presence of their queen.

Queen Chrysalis looked left and right, looking for something. When her eyes met Coco's, she found what she was looking for. As the larger changeling came toward her, the crowd parted way, allowing their queen get to her designated location without any obstacles.

It took no time at all for Queen Chrysalis to make her way to Coco. “Hello, Queen Chrysalis,” Coco replied with a light smile. “What brings you here?”

“I wish to bathe,” the queen replied. She then lowered her head so that her eye level matched the pony's. “What are you doing here?”

“I umm... just washing up and talking with my friends.”

“Your friends, hugh?” Queen Chrysalis said with a raise of her brow. The queen turned her head, seeing all the onlookers stare at her and the pony. “I wish to bathe in privacy everychangeling. Please leave me to do my business.”

As soon as the changelings heard their queen's order, they began to leave without complaining; except for the children who stood in line. Some of them through a tantrum and others looked very sad that they were unable to get any love from the pony.

The changeling on Coco's back was easily lifted off of her back as the father picked the colt up. The child waved as he departed from the pony. Coco then looked at the children who where leaving, wondering if there was another way to give them what they wanted. She then had an idea.

“Umm... I will be right back,” Coco said to the queen.

“Go on then,” Queen Chrysalis said without objecting.

Quickly, the pony ran through the water with haste. As she ran, the children noticed that she was running toward them.

“Don't leave yet,” Coco called out. Instinctively, the little ones stopped and waited for her to approach; each of their caretaker stopped and watched her come to them. When she got to them, she was a bit out of breath. “I'm... sorry not... all of you... got your time with me,” she said as she kept her head low, sucking in as much oxygen as possible. Finally catching her breath, Coco continued, “But I have one way of giving you some love.” Children, parents, and guardians looked an each other and made small talk upon hearing the pony. Coco then walked over to what would be the back of the line. She looked down at the filly changeling and then at her father and whispered something into his ear. He smiled and nodded his head in approval.

The filly looked confused and asked, “What are you talking about?”

Leaning down to the filly, Coco Pommel kissed the filly on the forehead. As Coco looked a the child with a bright smile, the changeling's eyes lit up, shimmering like glitter.

“Oh thank you thank you thank you!” the little one said as she took in a large amount of love from the pony.

Coco looked back at the other children as they looked back with happiness, knowing that she will to the same to them. And she did. The pony walked from the back of the line to the front, giving a nice kiss on their foreheads before they had to make their leave. It took no time at all before making her way back to the dam where Queen Chrysalis stood.

The pool was now empty; the only ones that remained was Coco, Queen Chrysalis, Fang, Sea More, and the other tailors. And by the looks of it, Queen Chrysalis did not look too pleased.

“So...” the queen said with a curious look in her eyes. “I hear that you will not give into my demands, is that correct?”

“Who told you that?” Coco blurted out instinctively, looking around at the remaining changelings, wondering who told Queen Chrysalis her plans.

“That is none of your concern. What you should be concerned with is with me...” The changelings looked between Coco and their queen, wondering what the outcome was going to be. “Now I am going to ask you a simple question, and I demand an answer.” With her heart pounding and confidence in her stare, Coco Pommel nodded. “Why will you not make me anymore dresses?”

A few seconds passed before Coco replied, “Because you have given me no feedback.”

“That's it?”

“Well... that is part of it?”

“'Part' you say? What about the other 'part?'”

“Let me tell you the first part before the second.”

“I wish to know the second part.”

“Well you get won't hear the second part because you refuse to give me any feedback!”

“How DARE YOU speak to me in such a manor!”

“And how DARE YOU refuse to give the pony you commissioned any type of criticism!”

Queen Chrysalis' teeth were bared, frustrated with the pony who continued to bicker with her. The other changelings, however, looked more astonished than angry with Coco as she stood her ground against the Queen of Changelings.

Giving in, Queen Chrysalis said, “Fine! Tell me your first reason. But I expect to hear your second reason next.”

Taking in a deep breath, Coco began her “first reason.”

“When I made your first dress, I thought I did something wrong when you told me to make another one without any feedback. Fang, however, told me that if you hated my dress, you would have told me otherwise. Since you did not, that gave me the impression that you were looking for something else. So, I had these tailors assist me with creating more designs for you.” Coco gestured to the four changelings who assisted her with the five other dresses.

“When you, once again, gave no feedback, I was frustrated. I didn't know what you wanted. I couldn't think of anything else because I thought my assignment was 'make a dress fit for a queen.' Apparently, I have made six dresses. Six dresses for a queen who cannot seem to give any type of critique!”

Moments passed as the pony finished her rant. Queen Chysalis then calmly spoke, “I wish to have a large arraignment of dresses before I make my choice.”

Coco creased her brow. “That is a flat out lie.”

The queen flinched, as if something electrified her. She too creased her brow. “What do you know?! All you are here to do is to work and get payed. Isn't that what you wanted? Work that doesn't involve working at a pathetic coffee shop in a run down city?”

“Don't you DARE BRING MY PAST JOB INTO THIS!” Coco screamed. If there was one thing that irritated Coco the most, it was insulting any of her line of work, regardless if it was tailoring or not. If Coco was a unicorn herself, her eyes would be burning with fury just as the queen's eyes were.

“Oh, I will bring your past work into this! Unless if you want to walk back to Manehattan empty hooved, you will do as I say!”

“And there is one thing I want to say right now, Mrs. Queen Chrysalis!”

Very roughly, Queen Chrysalis pressed her forehead onto the pony's forehead, making sure she bruised it in the process. “And what might that be?”

Coco was about to tell her off. She was about to tell her she was the worst boss she had ever had. But the pony saw something else in the queen's hurtful stare: blind wrath. She remembered that the queen had some bitter hatred toward Princess Celestia. Perhaps there was a better way than insulting her current employer.

Calmly, Coco said, “I consider you as a friend, as I do to all my employers. Do you consider me as a friend?”

Like a dying flame under light rainfall, Queen Chrysalis' fury slowly subsided. She slowly pulled her head back and looked down at the pony. Not with any angry fury, but bewilderment.

“A friend...?” the queen asked softly.

Taking quick glances, Coco noticed the other changelings were in shock. Their queen, ruler of all changelings, subsided her anger. All because of a simple earth pony's question.

Smiling lightly, Coco answered the queen's question, “Yes.”

“You think of me as a friend?” Queen Chrysalis asked, cracking the smallest of smiles; but it quickly left as it came. “Why?”

“Because a friend helps,” Coco replied. “A friend continues to support another friend's actions, so long as it assists them in the long run. You have given me a chance to do what I do best, and I appreciate that. In return, as your friend, I will give you what you need in order to survive.”

Queen Chrysalis was lost in thought, pondering what she had just heard, looking at Coco Pommel who held the happiest smile that had ever been directed toward the queen. Never in my years has a pony told me that they consider me as a friend... How? How could this simple earth pony look at me, the Queen of all Changelings, with a smile and say that I am her friend?! And yet... I believe her...

And it was true. Chrysalis felt the compassion radiating off of the pony and could tell that Coco was being truthful.

“So,” Coco asked. Chrysalis quickly brought her attention back to Coco's stare. “Do you consider me as a friend?” As she told the question, she held her hoof out, offering it like a filly befriending a colt on the playground for the first time.

As the others watched, the changelings were now in complete amazement to see their queen at such a defeat. She always has something to say. Always a snide remark if somechangeling disagreed with her. But now, they did not see that. They saw the Queen of Changelings slowly lift her front leg up and reach over to the pony's hoof. When their hooves finally touched, their wrists bent inward, giving a sincere hoofshake.

Taking in a deep breath, Queen Chrysalis said, “Yes, I consider you as a friend,” finally letting out a smile. As if electricity had flown through her arm, she left a strong amount of love coarse through her body as Coco stretched a happy smile across her face.

Everychangeling began to exchange looks, speechless at what had just happened. That is, everychangeling but Sea More, who stared at Coco and his queen with a smile.

Blushing and clearing her throat, Chrysalis said, “Well... now that that is taken care of...” She placed her hoof back in the water as she looked at her kind; they quickly looked away as they came in contact with her eyesight.

Looking back at Coco, she asked, “What is the second reason of why you will not make any more dresses for me?” This time, the queen did not look angry. She looked at the pony with curiosity, wondering what her second reason would be.

“Umm... well, before I answer that, I want you to critique my dresses. I want to know what you liked and disliked.”

Chrysalis looked up to the sky and looked at the stars. “Amazing.”

“What?” Coco replied taking a few steps back.

Looking back at the pony, the queen said with a smile, “They were amazing.”

“I told you,” said a voice from behind Chrysalis. Both she and Coco looked to see that it was Fang who grinned at the pony.

“Shut up, you are not in this conversation,” Chrysalis said as she tossed her arm out of the water, splashing his face in the process.

“Y-you mean... you-” Coco was at a loss of words. She almost couldn't believe what she had heard. But because her reality was no dream, she kept believing.

“Yes, I loved them; specifically your dresses.” Looking back at her own tailors, the queen said, “Your designs never disappoint me and I love each and every one of them. However...” Chrysalis gestured toward Coco. “My dearest friend here was hired by me. As such, I wish to use her work. After all, 'a friend continues to support another friend's actions, so long as it assists them in the long run.' Am I right Coco Pommel?”

“Mmhmm,” she quickly nodded. It made her happy to know that Chrysalis now calls her a friend. Because of this, she doesn't have to worry about being yelled at... hopefully.

“So, which dress did you like the most?”

Shaking her head, the queen said, “I have given you my critique.”

“What about the detail?” Coco asked, wondering what feature Chrysalis liked the most. “The fabric? The use of color? The-”

“Amazing work. Nothing more. End of subject.” Coco could tell that her friend was more interested in wondering what the second reason for why the pony won't any more designs. “So, your second reason please.”

“Umm... well...” The pony looked at Fang with uncertainty. “Fang,” she asked.

“Yes?” he replied.

Coco hesitated asking him if it was alright if she could tell the queen that he told her about the queen's hatred toward Princess Celestia, but retracted the idea. “Never mind...”

“What did you tell her?” Chrysalis asked Fang in a serious tone.

“Oh, he didn't tell me anything!” Coco blurted out, trying not to get her friend into any trouble. “It's- something I heard when you and Fang were outside my room this evening.”

“And what did you hear exactly?” The queen had a concerned look on her face, hoping the pony didn't hear the conversation she and Fang were having.

“I... heard that you were thinking about calling off the mission to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“Is that all?”

“Well... You said that you didn't want to go not for the fact you dislike Shining Armor or Cadence. You wanted to call it off because of Princess Celestia.” Chrysalis didn't say a word upon hearing that Coco was eavesdropping on her conversation. “That is my second reason. You hate Princess Celestia, yet you lied to me and kept giving me more work without any critiques toward my dresses.” Placing a hoof on Chrysalis' shoulder, Coco asked, “You are my friend. Please, tell me why you hate her so much. I know I am not some negotiator, hoping to stop a future conflict to happen. I just want to know... that's all...”

“You sure you want to know,” Queen Chrysalis asked, hoping the pony would say no.

“Please do. I am your friend. Let me help you. But first, I need to know why.”

“Very well...”

The atmosphere suddenly grew grim. Everychangeling had a sad look on their face; even Knight Cap showed sorrow. Queen Chrysalis looked depressed. Her eyes shimmered as water began to fill at the bottom of her eyes.

“I once... had a daughter...” Coco could see the queen was attempting to keep her composure in front of her kind, but was unsuccessful. “And... that Princess... inadvertently killed my daughter...”

The Cry II: The Black Widow

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The words “killed my daughter” made Coco Pommel practically speechless. Coco would have never thought that the reason Queen Chrysalis hated Princess Celestia would be so serious. If she were to have guessed, Coco would have thought that Chrysalis hated the princess because of a past disagreement or failed treaty. But this... this was far from what the pony would have imagined.

It was quiet. Even the sound of the falls began to fade in order to respect the queen's sorrow. Everychangeling showed sadness for Chrysalis and kept to themselves. The leader still looked down at the water with tears streaming down her face, though she didn't huff, nor whimper. All she could do was allow her salty eye-droplets fall.

Because she is now her friend, Coco came close to Chrysalis, looking upward. Coco realized how tall the queen was compared to her and all the others. As if she was reaching for the stars, the pony reached for her friend's neck, hoping Chrysalis would allow herself to be comforted.

To Coco's surprise, the large changeling lowered her neck to the pony. Like a hook, Coco's arm came around Chrysalis' neck and gently lifted herself, brushing her cheek on the queen's face in the process.

Then Coco felt her body being tugged. The queen's arm reached around the pony's body. Instinctively, Coco scooted in closer. A rush of warm heat was felt on Coco's chest as her body was now in close contact with Chrysalis.

Turning her gaze, Coco looked into Chrysalis' eye. Within her friend's eye, she saw how pretty her eyes were. As the tears formed at her bottom eyelid, the queen's emerald colored eye shimmered. Even though she was one, Coco could not see the so-called evil changeling everypony labeled her to be. All she could see was a creature who was broken because of a past event; a tragic past event.

Without removing herself, the pony asked, “You can trust me. You can tell me what happened. You can tell me why you hate her.”

A black pupal moved from its place and stared at Coco's eye. “Do you really want to know?” Chrysalis asked. “This may change your view about your princess.”

“You said 'inadvertently killed my daughter'. I... kind of don't think my opinion of Princess Celestia will change that well.”

“Suit yourself.” In unison, both Chrysalis and Coco removed themselves and stepped away from each other. “Thank you by the way,” the queen smiled. “It's... nice to at least have somechangeling- umm... somepony want to at least befriend me.” Just as it came, her smile left. “And regardless of your opinion toward Celestia, I will not change view toward you.” Even though Chrysalis' last statement made Coco happy, the queen's expression kept the pony from smiling. “Are you ready to hear my story?”

Lightly, Coco nodded her head.

Taking one last look, Chrysalis looked at the changelings who continued to spectate the two mares. I am shocked to see myself tell my tragic past of my daughter to an earth pony. Whatever...

Without any further delays, the queen took a deep breath began her story.

“About one-thousand years ago, I had a daughter named Beauty Fly, the most amazing creature to have ever entered this world.” A bright smile shined on Queen Chrysalis' face. “She was such a good child. She almost never disobeyed my wishes and was always by my side, or rather under me because she was such a the small thing.”

“I remember how she would lift her head and brush the back of her skull on my lower torso, just to remind me that she is always there. And how I always let her wear my crown, knowing that my daughter will one day she would become a stronger leader than I.”

“How cute,” Coco instinctively replied with a gleeful grin.

“You cannot fathom how special she was to me and the others.”

“Others?”

Glancing toward the stars, Chrysalis said, “Yes, others. My daughter was an interesting changeling because of how the other changelings loved her presence and her skills. I don't know how she was able to possess such power, but nonetheless, she had great arraignment of abilities.”

“And what power did she have?” the pony asked. “Was it strong powerful magic?”

Scratching her chin, Chrysalis replied, “Well yes, she did possess a unique magical ability. However, her magic was not her strongest suit. It was her intelligence. And I believe she got some of her smartness from her father.”

A question began to arise in Coco's mind. “Who is her father?”

Looking down at the pony with the most serious of stares. “The better question is what is her father...”

“O-okay... Then, what is her father...?”

“He is dead and not important.”At that moment, the slightest hint of rage glinted in the queen's eyes. “Anyways, where was I?”

“You were talking about how Beauty Fly's intelligence.” Wow, she must have not liked her husband, that is... if she had one.

“Right.” Looking back at the sky, Chrysalis continued. “Though out her... short life, Beauty Fly watched and observed me, watching how I rule and command. As such, my daughter learned from my ways and became quite the leader.

“But Beauty Fly was interesting in the way that she lead. I lead with an iron hoof, while my daughter was a kind negotiator.”

“She was a negotiator? You mean with other leaders.” Coco was impressed at how Chrysalis' daughter was.

“No, she only negotiated with our own kind, but that didn't make her any less impressive. Whenever somechangeling would desire something and I would deny them their wishes, they would ask my daughter, who happened to always be below me, for a second opinion. And because they would ask her for a second opinion, she would calmly try to convince me to give in to their demands.”

“And did you give in at all,” Coco asked.

“Let's just say she was successful half of the time,” Chrysalis replied with an unsure smirk.

Letting out a small giggle, the pony looked up at her friend who was smiling as she was reminiscing about her daughter. “So what about Beauty Fly's other unique ability?”

Slowly, the queen's lips went to a natural expression and looked downward at Coco. “It was her magic. I don't know how she got it, when she could perform such power, what, or who gave it to her, but what she had was a power that no changeling has ever had before.”

“And what was it?”

Looking at the dam, Chrysalis replied, “She had the ability to feed changelings without the use of transferring of love.”

Instinctively, Coco blurted out questions, “What? H-how?! When?! Who-”

“I just told you I do not know those questions...,” the queen replied looked back at her friend. “You need to learn to understand that some questions cannot be answered.”

The pony was in thought as she tried to comprehend how a changeling can feed its own kind without love, but that only created a headache instead of an answer. “Well... how did she feed others?”

Letting out a long sigh, Chrysalis' expression morphed into a depressed expression. “She... was able to feed other changelings with her own life source. The best way I can explain it is how she told me: you know when you have the energy to do something, let alone anything?” Coco nodded in response. “That's how she was able to feed other changelings without the use of love. She would use her magical gift to feed others at the expense of her own energy. I didn't mind this much because she was a young little filly with so much pent up energy, she would stand longer than I would, even if we both stood longer than twenty-four hours.” The look of shock fell upon Coco's face after hearing how Beauty Fly could stand for so long, let alone stay awake for so long.

“And then...” Quickly, Coco's the look of shock went into a slight frown. “A harsh winter came...”

Concerned, Coco placed a hoof on her friend's shoulder. Feeling the warmth of the earth pony's contact, Chrysalis reached her arm out of the water and wrapped her own hoof onto Coco's so that it won't go away. Being new to the concept of being friends with a pony, the queen didn't want her food to run away from her. Though the sadness weighed in her heart, the compassion from her friend was helping her keep a strong composure.

“During the harsh winter,” Chrysalis continued, “the hive had a difficult time finding love. Usually we are prepared for the harsh environment that is winter, but... things got complicated.”

“Complicated?” Coco asked. “As in it was hard to find love?”

“No...” A sudden change of emotion writhed on the queen's face. If Coco would have guessed what a queen's wrath looks like, Chrysalis would take the crown, literally. Her eyes flared with green energy as it began to wisp through the air. With her teeth bared, Queen Chrysalis said with distortion in her voice, “Her wretched father kidnapped my daughter!” Frightened, the pony tried to pull her arm away from her friend in order to give the queen some space, but the changeling proved to be stronger and held on tightly.

She continued, but with less anger, “Because of his treason, the hive used up a large amount of our rations so we can find him. And we did find him...”

Coco was even more afraid as she saw Chrysalis getting carried away with her emotions. The changeling now had a mixture of an insane smile and burning hatred. Instead of trying to remove herself, the pony shivered in place and asked, “A-and what happened t-to him?”

“The better question would be what he is,” Chrysalis replied with a reassuring grin.

For once, Coco knew the answer. But instinctively, she asked, “Then... wh-what is he?”

Giggling maniacally, the queen happily answered, “Dead!”

Hoping somechangeling would assist her, Coco looked to the other changelings for help. However, they too, remained frozen in fear of their queen's emotion. It dawned to her why they feared Queen Chrysalis. It wasn't for the fact that she was powerful. Yes, she was their queen, and yes, she possessed power beyond her loyal subjects. However, it was a different power. A power that all rulers have over their kingdoms: the power to bring down those who oppose or threaten one's home or values. And because Chrysalis has control over a race that is willing to do her every bidding, that alone is a thought to be feared.

“M-my queen,” Fang said from behind Chrysalis. Quickly, she twisted her neck to look at her personal guard in a harsh gaze. But even though he was terrified of her, Fang gave a small nod in hopes to calm the angered changeling down. Thankfully, his efforts went into effect as the queen began to calm herself down by taking in deep breaths.

Looking back at Coco, she said, “I'm... sorry for getting like that. I just-” Chrysalis swallowed a lump in her throat, refusing to resurface anymore emotion other than a strong composure. “I just hate him... a lot.”

“I can understand why,” Coco replied looking down at the water.

“No, you do not understand Coco.” Realizing she had gone off course, Chrysalis remembered where she was in her story about her daughter.

“Resuming where we left off, my daughter was kidnapped by her father, but both were quickly apprehended and...” She cut herself off and looked down at her friend who still looked frightened but not as much from before. So, in order save Coco from the trouble of being intimidated by her powerful wrath, Chrysalis gathered her thoughts before continuing, “After he was dealt with... we noticed that our efforts to rescue my daughter took a tole on our rations. Because of this, we had no choice but to go to Celestia and tell her of our problem.” Upon finishing her statement, the queen's brow began to crease.

“Are... we getting to the point of why you hate Princess Celestia?” Coco asked carefully.

“Yes,” Chrysalis said, but in a calm tone. Despite the water was keeping her warm, the changeling could not help but feel a cold shiver down her spine. The queen knew what was coming. Every time she thought of the past even of her daughter and her death was going to cause her to break down. However, she felt compelled to tell her new friend. Chrysalis remembered what Coco told her: A friend continues to support another friend's actions, so long as it assists them in the long run. Perhaps the pony who remained in front of her would help stop the nightmares that have haunted the changeling for hundreds of years.

Prepared, Queen Chrysalis resumed, “We went to her, that is my daughter and I, to ask Princess Celestia to feed off of some of the love that her kingdom had to offer. There was so much color and happiness in that kingdom that would feed the hive five times over. All we wanted was a fraction of their love in comparison to what we needed.” A few moments of silence came over her before she continued. “Needless to say, that princess refused my offer...”

Coco let out a concerned huff. “I'm... sorry that happened.”

“Oh no!” Chrysalis said with a burst of emotions. “There's more!” Coco could tell her friend was becoming upset and saw the emerald eyes of the queen begin to liquify. “Being the negotiator that she was, Beauty Fly attempted to convince Celestia, telling her that we cannot eat simple means of food and that we need love and that love was not hard to give. But then my daughter, the one time she stepped her hoof out of line, was when she said, 'If you do not give us the love that we need, we will become desperate and take your love by force.' It was at that moment that Celestia sealed her fate with me when she told my daughter, 'Go back to the hole you crawled out of, you insect!'”

This time, Chrysalis tried to keep a glare on her face, but sorrow began to invade her heart. “How... how can you say that to a child?”

Coco couldn't answer that question. The thought of insulting a child to their face was sickening.

“So...,” Chrysalis said in a chocked up voice, “because we were unable to negotiate with that princess, the hive was literally left to starve. However... Beauty Fly would not allow our home die of hunger.”

Coco could tell the story of Beauty Fly's life was about to come to an end.

“W-whenever my daughter would eat any amount of love, she would regurgitate it and multiply its energy by literally tenfold and feed it to the other changelings in the hive. I begged her to keep some food for herself, but she continued to help others while she remained hungry.”

“In hopes of keep my daughter from giving all of her energy to the others, I stopped eating as well... But when I began to starve, I could understand the madness that my daughter was enduring.” Chrysalis looked at Coco sincerely and asked, “Have you ever gone a day without eating and you began quivering with discomfort and lack of energy?”

“Yeah, I have,” Coco responded. “It's happened to me a few times when I got carried away on projects of the past.”

“Think of that but worse. You began to feel helpless. Time moves slowly. You want to cry yourself to sleep, and yet, you become an empty husk, not risking the chance of wasting useful energy.”

“While I was going mad from hunger, Beauty Fly would still give all of her energy to others. It got to a point when I asked her, 'Why do you feed others and not care for yourself?' And she replied, 'Because a leader without followers shows irresponsibility.' Then I asked, 'But what about followers without a leader? What are they?' She then gave an answer that to this day, makes my heart quiver, 'They are lost.'”

Beauty Fly's quote made Coco think. A leader without followers shows irresponsibility, but followers without a leader are lost. I can understand why... If one can't lead properly, followers will begin to fall away from the leader's values. But without any leaders, all those who need a following are lost in chaos.

“T-then... that f-fateful day happened...” Chrysalis said grimly, regaining Coco's attention. At this point, tears began to run down the queen's face uncontrollably. However, Chrysalis still managed herself to talk in calm sentences. “Beauty Fly couldn't get up. She kept telling me she was tired... really tired.”

“I immediately panicked and told the hive to not follow me as I went for some food. Some requested that they go with me and search for love in order to help my daughter, but I ignored everychangeling that tried to speak to me.”

“As I carried my little one through the cold winter sky... she kept telling me that she was warm, even though the weather was bone chilling. I don't know how long or how fast I was flying, but it got to a point where I lost all energy... and almost all hope. I landed on a cloud, high in the sky, trying to get as close to the sun as possible without leaving the atmosphere. Just when I told Beauty Fly I was going to go retrieve some love for her, she literally screamed at me, begging me not to go. It was at that point that it was going to be Beauty Fly's last negotiation with me.”

“Did... you have to leave her behind?” Coco said as she embraced her friend.

“No,” Chrysalis said as she welcomed her friend as she wrapped an arm around the pony. “The negotiation was to let her feed me so that I may return to the hive safely. I kept telling her that that was not an option that I was willing to take. Then she told me about followers without a leader. She said that the hive needed me... that I was the only one who could lead them... B-but I said to her, 'What about you? What about us? Your future? Our Future?! Everychangelings future?!' I know I said more... but you get the idea.” Chrysalis felt Coco's mane brush against her torso, clarifying that her friend was still there and still listening.

“Beauty Fly understood what was at stake and she knew that if I cannot lead over the hive, the changelings would go into chaos. She also knew that... she was dying... and was willing to die for our kind. She was so... brave... No fear, just brave.” Chrysalis' tears almost burned Coco's shoulder as they pattered onto the pony. “After what seemed to be an eternity, I allowed her to feed me. She placed her horn onto my heart and surged energy into me. While it flowed into me, I could feel the power that she had. I felt my energy becoming revitalized. But it didn't take long before I felt the energy from my daughter fade...”

“Just before she collapsed... Beauty Fly told me this, 'Don't become like father... I love you mother...'”

It was at that moment, Chrysalis grabbed Coco Pommel and held her close. Tears rolled down the face of the two of them the queen began to whimper in sorrow.

Then, Coco heard a cry that would stain her heart for the rest of her life.

“GRRAAAAAHHHHAAAAAHAAAAA!” Chrysalis gasped for air as she shouted the same wallow into the air, “AAAAHAAAHAAAAAA!”

It hurt Coco's heart. She didn't know what it was like to lose a family member because the only family she had was her own mother and father. Nonetheless, it pained her to see her friend in such agony.

Several more seconds passed as the Queen of Changelings cried aloud. No changeling nor pony dared to interrupt her lamenting over the loss of her daughter. It was after those long seconds that Chrysalis' cries became small huffs of sadness, and then, no more crying at all.

“That's why I hate Celestia. I hate her because of what she said to my daughter and the consequences Beauty Fly had to suffer...” But amidst the gloomy atmosphere, Chrysalis smiled, “At least she saved the hive from starvation. She was the only one who perished during that winter. A true and brave hero she was.”

Coco found herself smiling as well. “At least she cared enough to save you and every changeling that was alive at the time.”

“Yes,” the queen nodded as her smile went away. “I still hate that princess. I hate how happy she is and how she has not suffered like I have.”

“Are you sure?” the pony asked, turning her head in curiosity. “I mean, she is like, a thousand years old. Maybe even more. Don't you think she hasn't felt pain by the lost of many loved ones throughout her years of existence? Of all the friends and possibly family have... died?” The word “died” weighed on Coco's heart.

I really wish you wouldn't ask as many questions as you do... Chrysalis thought, trying to reject the idea that Celestia has suffered as much as she has.

Then an idea popped into Coco's head. It was crazy, but it might be the thing that could help the queen and hive in many ways. “What if...,” she said, hesitating to ask. “What if... you talked to Celestia... and let her know how you feel?”

Chrysalis was about to shout at the pony and tell her that was the most ridiculous idea she had ever heard. But then she gave thought to it. Coco's idea doesn't sound like a bad idea... Hmm... “Do you think that Celestia would talk to me and hear my story?” she asked.

“Well, are you going to show up to the Grand Galloping Gala as yourself?”

“Of course not!” Chrysalis exclaimed. “This is a mission of being hidden and blending in with other ponies.”

“Then...” Coco had to come up with an idea to further convince her friend that talking to Celestia could help her vent her emotions to the princess; though, if Chrysalis were to vent, things may turn nasty. “Do what Fang did?”

Fang's attention was immediately brought to Coco upon hearing his name.

“What about him,” Chrysalis asked, looking back at him.

“It was the way he introduced himself and how he gained my trust. When we were at the train station, he stood up for me, protecting me from my ex-boss' insults. And when we were on the train, he warned me to not be afraid and then reveled who he really was to me. Fang gave me a chance to take your commission or to return home. Of course, you know the answer.”

“Correct.” Chrysalis scratched her chin in curiosity. “Go on...”

“So, why don't you go to the gala as planned and just let the night go on. Try to befriend Princess Celestia and then show her who you are and give her a chance to choose whether or not to hear you out. And even if that doesn't work out, you still have the love you are going to collect while you and the other gatherers are there. In other words, there is no loss.”

No loss you say... So even if things go haywire, I still get what need, which is love... Giving a light chuckle, Chrysalis said, “You are quite the pony. Alright then, I will take your suggestion and... try to talk to Celestia.”

“I am glad you are at least going to tr- OPP!” Without warning, Chrysalis grabbed the pony and held her close. “Thank you for listening to me... You truly are an irreplaceable friend...”

Even though she couldn't move by the amount of force being applied to her, Coco replied, “A-and you are a good friend for giving me a commission to work on. You are also crushing me...”

“Forgive me. It has been years since I have held somechangeling like this.”

“Then will you please release me?”

“Just a little longer please,” the queen said as she clenched her friend tighter. “Now, let's not talk about the past and focus on the present. Specifically, how wonderful the hot water feels.”

***

Coco Pommel stood at her door, covered with darkness as she stared at Chrysalis who remained at the entrance of her room.

“Alright Coco,” Chrysalis said as she spoke to her friend. “I wish for you to rest easy. I also wish for you to take a break from work and relax tomorrow. You deserve a day's rest.”

“Okay,” Coco replied. “Thank you.” And with that, the two of them gave a light embrace before the queen started to walk away, along with Fang at her side. However, Coco walked out of her dwelling and called out, “Fang!”

As the guard stopped in his tracks, Chrysalis looked down at him in the corner of her eye as he turned toward the pony. He saw Coco move toward him and remained stationary. As soon as she came to him, Coco gave Fang a longer hug then the one she gave to Chrysalis; though, it didn't bother the queen. “Just wanted to say goodnight,” Coco said as her cheek pressed against his face.

“Uhh, t-thanks,” Fang replied, flustered by her embrace. His blush was as bright as hot metal that had been removed from a blazing furnace and had to keep it out of Coco's sight. “G-goodnight.”

As soon as they broke their embrace, Coco gave him the brightest smile he had ever seen. She had her eyes closed, not clenched, and her head was cocked a little to the right, with maybe the slightest hint of blush in her cheeks; he couldn't tell...

Departing from them, Coco went into her room and closing the door. A changeling stood at the entrance of the door on guard with a spear in his hoof, ready to ward off any possible intruders, and perhaps the pony back into her room if she decides to wander off.

As Chrysalis and Fang went away from the pony's estate, they walked in silence. A turn here and a turn there they went. Up some stairs, in hole, and then, onto the sealing they now stood. The world below them looked different as their perspective of their surroundings were reversed.

Both of them were at the entrance of Fang's home, or rather, hole in the ceiling.

“Fang,” Chrysalis asked. “Why are you ignoring my wishes?”

“My queen,” Fang said in a panicked tone. “I-I would never go against your bidding! Never!”

“Then why are you becoming attached to the pony...”

The personal guard had his jaw open wide upon hearing this. “But... I thought Coco became your friend.”

“She is. She is the first pony I have ever befriended and will cherish the friendship I have with her. However, you must not get too close to her. I don't know what you two have done behind closed doors-”

“We have done no such things!” Fang exclaimed assuming Chrysalis was thinking Coco and he were doing more than just work.

“DON'T YOU DARE CUT ME OFF LIKE THAT!” Green haze began to wisp from Chrysalis' eyes, angered by Fang's interruption. “Now where was I...,” she said as she cooled her temper. “I don't know what you two do behind closed doors, but I will say this: once this job is over, you will never get to see her again...”

“W-why is that my queen,” Fang asked with a lump in his throat, fearing the worst.

Chrysalis looked upward, watching her hair dangle as it swayed through the air. “When she is done here, she will return to her normal life. She will go about what she wants to do as she normally has done and things will return to normal for us as well.”

“But what about what Coco had said? What if Celestia would hear you out and things may turn out good for us?”

The queen was fast on her hooves and asked another question, “What is a princess to a queen?”

Fang was silent. He had no answer for his queen.

“I can give you that answer, but that will wait for another time.”

Even with his leader's statement, he was not convinced by her question. “Are... are you saying that as an excuse to not speak to the princess?” Fang asked carefully, “or are you unsure that things will go right?”

Shivering, Fang was expecting his queen to erupt with rage as he questioned her statement, for she hated to be questioned after stating something. But instead of wrath, he saw a frown. “I just... have a feeling things won't go according to plan...,” Chrysalis said. “And I don't want my friend to end up hurt in the end... Also, if you become attached and things don't go according to plan, it will break your heart if you cannot see her again, regardless if your relationship is intimate or romantic.”

Romantic... Fang thought with a weighted heart.

“Now get some rest,” Chrysalis requested. “You have been awake for several days. And I don't want my personal guard to lose his flame.”

Romantic... he thought again.

***

Laying in bed, Coco Pommel was on her side, looking out the large window, watching the moon as it rested in the sky. She felt happy about how things were going and knew things would get better. But something cramped the pony's heart. She was worried about her friend, Chrysalis.

It was only natural to care about somepony when their friend was hurt. However, Chrysalis' past about the loss of her daughter seemed to weigh on the queen's shoulders and caused the fangs of wrath to sink into her heart and have the venom of hatred course through her veins.

And as always, more questions went through Coco's head. Who was Beauty Fly's father? Why does Chrysalis hate her daughter's father? Was Chrysalis wed to him?

Lucky for Coco, her exhaustion was overtaking her and began to find little interest in questions as each second passed her. She realized that it was better to rest things off before wondering why certain things are the way they are.

For Reference

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Taking in a deep breath, Fang told himself, You are just checking in on her. That's all. Very slowly, he pushed the door to Coco's dwelling and entered her room. As he entered, he looked out of the large window and saw the sun slowly moving behind the horizon, leaving the room in a mix of yellow, red, and orange colors.

To his left, he saw the pony he was looking for. Coco was at her workstation, looking down at the wooden table. Quickly, Fang went over to the mare to see if anything was wrong. As soon as her expression came into view, the changeling saw a sad pony with a very small water droplet in the corner of her eyes.

“Coco, what's wrong,” Fang asked instinctively. There was no reply from her. All she could do was continue to look saddened. Doing what he can to comfort his friend, Fang reached his arm around her and carefully pulled her close so that she does not fall off her chair.

“Fang...” she finally spoke.

“Yes, Coco?”

“I'm leaving...”

“W-WHAT?!” Quickly, Fang jumped back in shock and looked at his friend. “W-why? Did something happen? Do you not like it here? Did... did that disgusting locust Scar Splash hurt you again?!”

As she did before, Coco continued to look downwards. “Chrysalis has chosen a dress. Now that she has done so... she doesn't need me...” Fang was at a loss for words. “But...” Coco said as her gaze moved from the ground to the changeling.

“But what, Coco?”

“P-please don't hate me...” Suddenly, she began to huff and sob.

Once more, Fang moved toward his friend to hold her once more. However, Coco was faster. Much faster than the changeling would have anticipated. Coco jumped from her chair and onto Fang, wrapping her arms around his neck and buried her face into his chest.

“Don't cry, Coco,” Fang replied, trying to keep his friend from sobbing anymore. “I will never hate you.”

“But you might when I say...”

Both of them looked into each other's eyes. Fang gave a concerned gaze while Coco delivered an upset and teary stare.

“S-say what?” Fang dared to ask. What's going on? Did the queen do something to her?”

“When I say t-that... I can't live without you!”

Suddenly a rush of love coursed through Fang's body as if a quick bolt of lightning struck him from where he stood. The love was more powerful than he could ever imagine.

Fang knew what she meant by “I can't live without you.” Coco was in love with him.

“'You can't live without him,' you say?” spoke an eerie voice from the shadows. Fang looked to see his queen dressed in the first outfit Coco had made for her. The turquoise on the dress mixed with the harsh colors of the sunset created a mixed blend that almost made Coco's creation look brown.

“C-Chrysalis!” Coco exclaimed and took a few steps back in fear. “I was just-”

“I heard enough, my friend.” Fang then stood in horror as he saw Chrysalis levitate the defenseless pony up into the air.

“Fang!” she screamed. “Help me! Please!”

Chrysalis grinned at Fang as she hurled Coco toward the glass window. Time slowed down as he saw the mare crash through the window. A spectacle of transparent glass danced through the air as Coco broke the barrier of the see-through surface. Somehow, Fang could not make himself move. No matter how hard he tried, the changeling could not budge.

A cold voice came into his head, I told you not to become attached.

“I- I couldn't help myself!” Fang cried out, knowing it was the queen talking in his mind.

And I also told you that once her job is complete, you will never see her again.

“But I need to save her!”

No you will not. As your queen, I demand you to remain still and watch her leave.

Fang couldn't remember the last time tears rolled down his face. “I cannot let you kill your friend like this!”

Then, he heard Chrysalis speak from behind him in a horrific tone, “HOW DARE YOU DEFY MY WILL YOU WORTHLESS INSECT!” In a flash of electric green light, Chrysalis struck Fang down as he was flung forward. His head collided with the ground, bouncing from the recoil of his queen's awesome power. Sprawled on the ground, Fang looked up to see Coco still traveling through the air, slowly and steadily. Their eyes met with sorrow and fear as the changeling watched helplessly as Coco crawled toward the edge of the balcony.

Then time suddenly returned to normal. In an instant, Coco disappeared from behind the balcony, crying a bloodcurdling scream, “FAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANG!”

In a harsh twitch, Fang felt drenched in sweat. He lifted his head from the ground and looked around to see where he was. He saw his large scythe leaning against the wall, looming a shadow over him as a mystical lamp shined in the corner of the stony room Fang was in. He was in his home. With a tired sigh of relief, Fang rubbed his forehead with his hoof to get the beads of sweat off of him.

What a dream...

The changeling let out a light chuckle, shaking his head about the ridiculous fantasy he had just had. But as soon as Fang gave more thought to his dream, he began to ponder about it.

Does Coco have more emotion towards me that is more than just mutual feelings?

Shaking his head, Fang remembered the queen's statement: "Once this job is over, you will never get to see her again...”

Will it be true...? the changeling thought, his heart weighted by the possibility. Fang did care about Coco. But he also feared that he might become too attached to his friend and go against Queen Chrysalis' wishes.

Just as his thoughts were beginning to give him a headache, a changeling crawled through a hole in the ground and appeared before Fang.

“Hello, brother,” Snackrifice said as he came out of the hole. “I have not seen you all day.”

“What do you mean all day?” Fang asked as he raised a brow.

“I mean I have not seen you all day.”

“W-wait... What time is it?”

“I don't know... We don't have clocks to tell us the hour.”

Fang was irritated with his relative. “I mean time of day, you mutated mule.”

“If you are going to be like that, then I suppose you don't want any of the evening rations I brought along.” On Snack's back was a ragged sack what he held with one hoof. Gently, the changeling placed the bag on the ground; the contents of the sack made a light “thunk” as it touched the ground.

“Did you say evening rations? As in... nighttime?!”

As Fang looked at his brother in shock, Snack nodded, “Yup.” Carefully, Snack pulled out a large glass sphere out of the bag. It was the size of his head and the inside of it was filled with the darkest black anypony could imagine, or at least most of it was black. At the very center of the rounded ball of glass was the shape of a heart. Not the kind one would find in an anatomy book, but rather the shape you would find on a filly's wallpaper. The heart radiated a bright pink aura and small clouds of darker pink orbited the shape.

Almost playing with the ball, Snack placed his hoof on the ball and began to rotated it slightly as it rested on the ground. “So, you want some?”

Fang thought about his brother's request. Sure he didn't eat for at least twelve hours. However, he thought about Coco and how he hadn't seen her. Maybe... he didn't need any rations. “No thanks, brother.”

“Suit yourself.” Upon Fang's answer, Snackrifice wrapped his hoof around the sphere and placed his horn on the glass. Flinging his head backwards, Snack shot a green beam into the circle. As the beam went inside, it splashed into the blackness of the sphere like ink dropping into a clear glass of water. The neon green began to circle the heart, slowly encasing it in a cloudy, muggy fog. When the color completely covered the shape, only a dark silhouette of the heart showed that it was still inside. The shadow of the heart broke in half and slowly began to dissolve, cracking and breaking as the shape began to lose its form. Soon, the green cloud began to break away and move toward the outer rim of the sphere. It then left the orb and went toward Snackrifice's horn, absorbing the love he had just dissolved.

All that was left was a glass sphere with the same dark void it originally had. The only difference was that the heart was no longer inside it. “Doesn't matter if you wanted some, anyways,” Snack said. “I ate most of it along the way back.”

“Figures,” Fang replied, rolling his eyes at his brother's action.

“Besides, you can go to your little love bug and have her feed you.”

Fang would have blushed if Snack said something like “special somepony” or something mushy like that. But love bug? Now that was a quip if he ever heard one.

“Excuse me?” Fang leered as he rolled the orb away from his brother.

“What?” Snackrifice pulled his head away from his angry relative.“It's what the hive is calling you two.”

“You mean... the entire hive is calling Coco and I 'love bugs?'”

“Yeah. Last night, when you were at the bathing pool with the pony, some say you were behind the waterfall, alone with her.”

“W-we were just talking!” Fang blushed that time, trying to hide the fact that there was more than just talking.

However, Snack was not convinced. “If you were just talking with her, why are you getting defensive?”

“I just-”

“You what? You care about her?”

“I... I do...”

Snackrifice shook his head in disapproval. “You cannot become attached to her. Don't become like Sea More and be soft like him.”

Not wanting to hear a lecture from his brother, Fang stood up quickly and walked to the hole in the ground and looked downward to see the world outside of his dwelling. “It's my choice, brother.”

“Whatever.” A brief moment of silence fell upon the relatives as they stared at each other with an emotionless gaze. “I will say this Fang: ponies may have an endless amount of love, but I will never befriend one. Not in a lifetime.” With a short hop, Fang descended into the hole, leaving Snackrifice to himself.

***

Irritation was the only thing he felt as he went towards Coco Pommel's dwelling. As he went through the hive, several changelings snickered, giggled, and even commented to him as he passed by. Though he didn't bother to stop and ask why they were behaving as such, he knew exactly why.

When he passed a group of four, one of the stallions shouted, “Hey, going to see your little love bug, Fangy?”

Lucky for Fang, he had a strong composure within himself to not stir up some trouble. But his expression showed that he was bothered by the comments and reactions as he went through the halls.

Reaching his destination, Fang saw the door to Coco's room. A changeling stood at the entrance with a spear in hoof, stagnant and unwilling to blink. Soon, Fang was at the door.

Taking in a deep breath, Fang told himself, You are just checking in on her. That's all. Very slowly, he pushed the door to Coco's dwelling and entered her room.

Just before Fang closed the door, the guard from outside said “love bug” before the wooden seal closed. Turning to face the door, Fang was about to storm outside and give the changeling on watch a piece of his mind, when he heard a voice, “Oh hello, Fang.”

Flinching upon hearing the feminine voice, Fang turned to see the pony he was looking for. “Hello Coco,” Fang said awkwardly.

To the changeling's surprise, he was shocked to see that Coco was not alone. There were the other tailors in the room. Silky Maggot was at the desk, drawing something down on paper and Silver Liner stood to her left. Knight Cap stood on the balcony, staring blankly into the night sky; the lack of color in the air proved that Snackrifice was telling the truth about the time. Stitch Snitch and Coco Pommel were standing by the two dresses that were to the left of the desk where Silver and Silky were stationed. The two dresses were Coco's designs. The other dresses that the other four tailors were nowhere to be found. Perhaps the queen wanted them moved someplace else, but that remained unknown to Fang.

Both Stitch and Coco exchanged glances and went toward the large toothed changeling. “What brings you here?” Coco asked.

“I... wanted to see you,” Fang said quickly, biting his lip on how stupid he sounded. “Just to see how you were doing and... make sure, heh, nochangeling was attempting to throw you off the balcony.”

“Hehe,” Coco giggled. “At least I have my friends here to prevent that. But there is nothing wrong when the queen's personal guard comes to check on a simple earth pony.” She gave Fang a sweet smile as he tried to create a straight face, but instead, his lips writhed into what looked like a child that drew squiggles on a sheet of paper.

“S-so what have you been working on?” Fang asked.

“Well, since it is my day off, nothing much really.” Coco walked over to her dresses in and Fang followed suit. As Fang walked passed Stitch, she gave him a light nudge and winked at him.

The stallion's fang burned bright red in hopes to intimidate Stitch to the point where she won't tease him about being Coco's love bug. To his surprise, it didn't effect Stitch; in fact, she just smiled at him.

“The tailors are here only for simple chatter,” Coco said as she and he went toward the two designs of fabric. “I slept through most of the day due to my lack of proper sleep the last few days and my friends came to check up on me.”

“That's nice,” Fang smiled. At least I'm not the only one going out of my way just to see if you are doing well. “How long have they been here?”

“Several hours.”

“Heh, so much for simple chatter.” Fang grinned.

“I know, right?” Coco smiled along with her friend.

As Coco and Fang got to the pair of dresses, the pony stared at them, her eyes darting back and forth between the two.

“Is something wrong?” Fang asked.

“Nothing is wrong,” she replied and looked at her friend. “I'm just curious on which dress the queen prefers the most.” Looking back at the dresses, Coco continued, “Sure Queen Chrysalis gave the critique I wished for. However, she did not tell me which one she liked the most.”

“But why does this bother you?”

Scratching her chin, Coco answered, “If I recall, there will be several gatherers accompanying the queen, correct?”

“Yeah.” Fang gave it more thought and then realized where Coco was going.

“Because of the theme, the princess and her shining armor, I want to be sure the gatherers have an outfit that complements the dress the queen chooses.”

Looking at the two dresses, Fang asked, “Well, which one do you like the most?”

“If I had to chose, it would be my second dress.”

“The white one you say...” Fang said slowly and quietly.

“Mmhmm,” Coco nodded. “I know half of the dress is white, but the gold and blue just really make it pop.”

“Then why not go with that?”

“Because I cannot work any further until she gives me her orders. I want to be sure that my customer is happy with what she gets. I know she is my friend, but I also work for her.”

“At least you are willing to work with the queen in more ways than one, Coco.”

Coco nudged her friend with her shoulder. “What's that supposed to mean?”

“You usually argue with Queen Chrysalis, wanting to do what you please,” Fang grinned.

Grinning back, Coco replied, “At least my arguing got me a new friend. It's not every day a simple earth pony befriends a queen.” Both of them gave a light laugh as Coco gave Fang another light push to his side. After their moment of happiness was finished, the changeling gave a nice long look at the white dress, admiring the beauty of it. The blue diamonds, the golden rope, the medieval helmet visor. It was a sight to see.

“You know, Coco,” Fang said as he walked around the dress, observing it more.

“Hmm?” she replied with a turn of the head.

“When I look at this dress, I think of ice.”

“Ice?” Squinting her eyes, Coco's eyes darted up, down, and around, trying to see how Fang saw her dress. “Explain, please...”

“Well, white is the color of snow. And blue... well light-blue can represent ice. But this kind of blue can be used to describe ice, yes?”

Suddenly, Coco's eyes widened. “Fang! Turn into the unicorn you were disguised as when you met me!” The changeling lifted up a leg and moved backward as the pony leaned in toward him.

“W-wha? Why?” Looking around, he saw the other changelings look at the two of them, embarrassed that attention was drawn to them.

“Please Fang, I need you to!”

“Ok-ay...” Quickly, Fang transformed into his crimson-red unicorn form. “So, why do you-”

Without warning, Coco reached out an arm and touched his face. Blush came to his cheeks as she ran her hoof through his hair. Placing one hoof down on the ground, she reached out with the other one and placed it on Fang's chin, turning his head from left to right.

Quickly, she ran over to the desk and grabbed the yellow waist measurement tape that was coiled in a small bundle. Placing it in her mouth, Coco went back to Fang.

“Can... I ask you something?” she said as she placed the tape on the ground.

“Anything, Coco.”

“May I... use your body measurements for reference?” Coco's cream cheeks began to glow red, realizing what she had said.

The question alone grabbed everychangeling's attention. They looked at Coco and Fang in a mix of wonder and grins.

“W-what f-for Coco?” Fang stuttered.

“A concept for an outfit I have in mind.”

“But what about waiting for Queen Chrysalis?”

Coco smiled. “I want to surprise my friend. So, will you allow me?”

Glancing left and right, Fang saw everychangeling that was in the room continue to stare, giving the same looks they started with.

Almost immediately, Fang answered with a light smile, “Of course. Anything to help my friend.”

“Thank you,” Coco responded as she hugged her friend. Slowly, while he looked at the other changelings, wrapped his right arm around Coco.

“Oh, and Fang?”

“Hmm?”

The two of them broke their embrace and looked at each other. “Have you eaten today?”

What a weird question to ask a changeling... “No I have not.”

Without realising it, Coco leaned in and gave a quick kiss on the cheek. The love that he received shocked him, quite literally as it transferred from pony to changeling.

“Oh... Thank you, Coco.”

To Fang's surprise, he noticed that his friend had no blush on her cheeks, but she still smiled. Maybe it was just a friendly kiss.

“Your welcome.” Quickly, her smile vanished and she quickly unraveled the rope she possessed and pulled tightly. “Now hold still.”

No More!

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Ch.14

It took a few hours to get used to a mare moving Fang's limbs around for proper measurements and poses, but he got used to it. He was not aware of the time due to the fact that it was still dark out. Regardless of that, he remained still, his eyes fixated on the wall in front of him, holding his head high.

“Lower your head,” Coco spoke. Fang did what he was told and tilted his head downward. “Lower, like you are kneeling before the queen,” Coco said with a little more volume in her voice. Going above and beyond, the changeling closed his eyes and actually bowed down before his friend, lifting his right arm from off the ground and held it across his torso. Though he could not see her, Fang heard the pony giggle as she shuffled something through his hair. “You may stand upright. We are done.”

Lifting himself upward, Fang stood upright and opened his eyes, shifting his gaze from those who stood before him. Silky Maggot, Silver Liner, Knight Cap, and Stitch Snitch stood behind Coco Pommel, smiling in amazement.

“You know,” Silky said with a smile, “I think it is safe to say that I am now genuinely attracted to you, Fang.”

“W-what's that supposed to mean!?” Fang barked with heat in his eyes.

“I mean that you look like a suitable mate.”

“I am naturally a good mate!”

“Well, I think he looks very handsome either as a changeling, or when he has transformed into his crimson unicorn form,” Coco smiled.

“Why thank you, Coco,” Fang replied, grinning at Silky. He would have blushed at the genuinely nice compliment, but he knew she was standing up for him, so he was able to keep his emotions intact.

“Would you like to see yourself, Fang?” Coco asked.

“I would very much so.”

Without words or being told, Stitch brought the mirror that rested in the corner of the room and brought it to the dressed changeling. “Go on,” she said. “Step in front of it.”

Doing so, Fang went forward to see his appearance. Upon seeing his unicorn form, the changeling saw the stunning piece of clothing he was wearing.

Only half of him was dressed; Fang's flank and cutie mark were exposed. The outfit was mostly red. The fabric was a smooth and shiny silk. Three big black buttons ran down the chest of the shirt. At the collar was a black trim and within the collar was a rose painted in black. Two strips of black wrapped around the shoulder and under armpit. The same was applied to the wrists of the shirt as well. Fang's hair was done in a wild arraignment. It was spiked upward and a silver crown that looked to have grown from stalagmites with a red ruby centered at the base of it rested on top of the stallion's cranium.

“Amazing...” he said with his mouth wide open.

“Hehe, I really know how to make somepony look good, don't I?” Coco spoke with a happy smile. Everychangeling nodded in agreement. Letting out a sigh, the pony asked, “What time is it?”

Fang, moving carefully, walked toward the balcony and gazed upward to the stars. The moon was in view as it crawled through the sky. “Early morning,” he said.

“Really?! We worked on something so simple and it took us that long?!” Coco was shocked at how much time was put into such an easily put together shirt that took several hours. Am I losing my touch? Have I been working myself too hard?

Feeling a tap on her shoulder, the mare looked to see Knight Cap. “You did well. Some things take longer than others. After all, a dress for a stallion is a lot less detailed than a mare's. So, in this case, this is best you could have done.”

“Well, I couldn't have done it without the help of my friends.”

“That is true,” Silky said in high volume. “After all, it was my suggestion to use the red silk for the main body.”

“As if that was a good input,” Silver spoke aloud toward the boastful changeling. “I was the one who suggested to add black to give the outfit a good pop.” Soon, both Silver and Silky began to argue, flinging insults at each other. After letting out a good laugh, Coco, Knight Cap, and Stitch went over to Fang, still admiring his outfit.

“You do look very stunning,” Coco said as she and the others came up to him.

“Thank you, Coco,” he replied. “But rather, you are the one who knows how to make anypony and changeling look well, so I should be thanking you.”

“Hehe.”

Scratching her chin, Stitch asked, “So, shall I go inform the queen of your act, Coco?”

The question made the pony think for a while. Should I have her go and fetch the queen and show her this design I had just made? Or should I wait for her to show up and then show her? No... Maybe I should hide it and... No, that won't be good. Hmm...

“Just have the queen come here and take a look at what you have done,” Knight Cap spoke unexpectedly. Coco assumed that Knight Cap had read her thoughts.

“I suppose that would be a good idea,” Coco said with uncertainty. “But won't Queen Chrysalis be angry with me?”

“Nonsense!” Stitch Snitch exclaimed. “Why would she be angry with your choice? You wanted to think ahead and create something that might please the queen. Besides, you had a moment of inspiration. The best time for any artist to do anything is when they are inspired."

“True.” Giving it thought, Coco made up her mind. “If she is not busy, I wish to see my friend, Queen Chrysalis.”

***

Moving quickly through the halls, Queen Chrysalis made her way hastily as she followed Silky from behind. “This better be important. I know I have befriended the pony, but disturbing me at this hour is not reasonable.”

“Do not worry my queen, you will not be disappointed.”

“Disappointed? What are you getting at?”

“Oh! Umm... You will see my queen!”

Slowing down, the two of them reached Coco's dwelling. Without knocking, Silky Maggot opened the door, gesturing Chrysalis to enter. Going into the room, everychangeling and pony looked and bowed down before her.

Seeing her friend, the queen went up to the pony and asked, “You have something to show me?”

“Y-yes. Forgive me for bothering you so early.”

Letting out a sigh, Chrysalis said, “You are forgiven, my friend. Now, what do you have to show me?”

“Right, right. Fang, please show yourself!”

“Fang is here?” Hmph, no surprise that he is.

Moving into her view, the queen saw her guard dressed in his red outfit. “My my, Fang. You look rather stunning for a unicorn.”

“T-thank you my queen!” the changeling replied as he bowed his head to her.

“So,” Chrysalis spoke and turned toward Coco, “is this what you wanted to show me?”

“I... had a bit of inspiration and made this outfit for your gatherers.”

Thinking for a bit, Chrysalis remembered she was bringing other changelings to assist her with gathering love. “Right, my gatherers. But I only see one dress.”

“Well, of all of the dresses that I made, the second one was my favorite. So based on that design, I felt like that dress needed to complement your gatherers. So, I came up with Fang's outfit.”

Chrysalis thought and thought. Hmm... I know I need nineteen more outfits to be made for my gatherers and Coco has already made a design. Maybe... I don't need her to make anything else.

With an approving smile, Queen Chrysalis exclaimed, “Well done my friend! You have far exceeded my expectations! As such, I no longer need you to make dresses or outfits for me anymore!”

Five Days

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Ch. 15

“R-really?” Coco said in question. “You don't need me to make any more dresses?”

Queen Chrysalis nodded, still wearing her smile. Looking around, Coco noticed everychangeling's expression. The tailors' expressions were surprised due to the fact that their queen looked so pleased. Fang on the other hoof, looked sad.

“So... does that mean I no longer work for you?”

“No,” Queen Chrysalis replied as her smile went away. Upon hearing her statement, the tailors looked at each other in confusion as Fang cracked a happy grin.

Thinking hard, the pony creased her brow and puckered her lips, trying to think. “Why do you still need me to work for you?”

“I'll explain that later.” Chrysalis looked slightly nervous and looked around, avoiding eye contact with her friend.

Coco shook her head. “No, you need to tell me now.”

Slightly irritated, the queen scowled at the pony. “No, I will explain later!”

“But as the pony you commissioned, I need to know why I am still working for you if I am no longer tailoring anything else.” A small smile crawled onto Coco's face. “Be honest with me. And I am sure that anything you say here will not be spoken to anychangeling.” Looking at the changelings, Coco said aloud, “RIGHT EVERYCHANGELING?”

“Oh yes.”

“Of course.”

“Anything for my queen.”

“My lips are sealed.”

All eyes were on Chrysalis. For once in her life, she didn't want all the attention drawn to her. Must this pony always be so convincing? Sighing, the queen spoke, “I wish for you to continue working for me just for a little longer.”

A question came to Coco's mind. “But what do you mean by that? If I am not making any more dresses, what are you going to do about your other gatherers?”

“Let me answer your question with another.”

“Okay...” Coco did not know where the queen was going with the conversation.

“Do you know when the Grand Galloping Gala is?”

Shaking her head, the pony replied, “No.”

“Five days.”

Coco's eyebrows raised in shock. In five days?! I didn't even know that it was so soon!

“Based on your expression, I can assume you are surprised. Let me tell you something, my friend: I have twenty gatherers attending me to the Grand Galloping Gala. You have only completed one outfit for one gatherer. If you want to kill yourself with an overload of work, then I want you to make nineteen original creations. eleven dresses, nine outfits. You have five days to get everything finished.”

Realizing the workload Coco has to do in order to please the queen's demands, she thought long and hard before replying. “If you no longer need me to make any more designs for your gatherers, how else are you going to get what you need?”

“Simple: you and I will go to Canterlot and purchase outfits there.”

“You and I?” In her peripheral, Coco noticed the changelings were just as confused as she was. “Wait a second...” The mare was very interested in Queen Chrysalis' statement. “If you want to buy clothing at Canterlot, why didn't you do that instead of highering me? I mean, I do appreciate the work that you have provided me. However, why have me instead of a cheaper alternative?”

Chrysalis gave Coco a sinister smile. “You'll see...” Intimidated, the pony lowered her head and her ears retreated. Quickly, the queen's attitude changed. Letting out a chuckle and pushing her friend with a nudge, Chrysalis said, “It's nothing to worry about.”

Playing along, Coco sarcastically replied, “Alright, I won't worry. After all, you have never proven me wrong.”

The queen felt that her friend's comment was a quip. “What's that supposed to mean?” she leered.

With a smug grin, Coco answered, “Oh, it's nothing to worry about.”

Chrysalis suddenly burst into laughter. “HAHAHA!” she roared. “You are funny!” Coco also began to laugh along with the queen.

As Fang spectated everything from a distance, he was happy to see his friend and queen get along. I'm glad Queen Chrysalis is going to have Coco around a bit longer.

Coming up from behind Coco, the changeling approached the two mares, his eyes on the queen. “My queen, forgive me for interrupting your time with your friend-”

“Speak,” Chrysalis ordered, not giving Fang the chance to apologize properly.

“R-right. When do you plan to go to Canterlot, and who will be accompanying you two?”

“Tomorrow; or rather, later today, since it is early in the morning.” Looking down at her friend, Chrysalis scratched her chin. “Who should we bring along, Coco?”

“W-what? Why are you asking me?” In an instant, all eyes were on her. The sudden attention that fell upon the pony made her uncomfortable.

“I am asking you because you are very wordy with your consistent question bombardment.”

“I don't ask that many-”

“I wasn't finished,” Chrysalis said calmly. It surprised Coco that the leader kept her cool when the pony began to make her input. Usually, Chrysalis would shout and get in her face when she tried to say something that would upset mostly anypony or changeling. Continuing her statement, Chrysalis continued, “I know you like to ask questions. So, if there is anychangeling, in particular, you would like to bring along so you can talk their ears out, go ahead and suggest. Otherwise, I will choose.”

Even though Coco didn't like how her friend was wording it, she couldn't disagree that she did ask a lot of questions. Not to say that asking questions was a bad thing, but Chrysalis was making it out to seem that way.

Hmm... who would I choose. Looking at Fang, he gave her a smile. I would obviously want Fang to come along. He is a nice changeling and I am sure he would love to come along as well. But who else... who else. Then she knew who to choose.

“I would like for Fang and Sea More to accompany us to Canterlot.”

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Ch. 16

“Sea More, you say?” Queen Chrysalis asked.

“Yes,” Coco answered with a nod.

“Interesting...” The queen glanced at Inferno Fang before back to her friend. “Why him?”

“Because he was-” Coco stopped herself and looked toward the tailors. She wanted to be careful about what she was about to say. “You are all great friends, but Sea More was the second changeling to treat me with kindness. So since I am quite the pony to ask many questions, I might as well give him a questionnaire.”

“But you said 'second changeling.'" Chrysalis' voice made Coco turn around to face her. "Who was the first changeling to give you kindness?”

Looking at Fang, the pony answered, “Him. He stood up for me when my former boss, Suri, assaulted me with insults.”

“Heh, I remember the story.” Chrysalis gave Fang a sinister grin. “You gave Suri quite the scare, didn't you?”

“Like a scared filly,” he responded, mirroring his queen's smile.

“Anyways...” Coco wanted to change the subject. The memory of Suri's harsh comments still burned her like a tanned hide. “...I would like to have Sea More come along with us to Canterlot. I'm sure he wouldn't mind being around other ponies anyways.”

Oh I bet he won't, Chrysalis thought, her eyes almost rolling in her head.

“Very well!” the queen exclaimed. “In four hours, we will depart for Canterlot and shop throughout the day.”

Coco turned her head slightly. “Why so early?”

“The flight will take some time before we arrive at the kingdom. During that time, you can ask Sea More all the questions in the world. That is until we reach our destination.” Queen Chrysalis cleared her throat. “So, you can ask as many questions as you like. Once we get to Canterlot, I would like for you to hold on the question asking please.” With a nod, Coco acknowledged her friend's request. “Thank you.” Looking at her kind, Chrysalis spoke, “I wish for everychangeling to leave Coco so she may rest. Fang?” Both hers and his eyes met.

“Yes, my queen!”

“Prepare the carriage and obtain Sea More. We have a long day ahead of us.”

“As you wish my queen.” With a bow, Fang began to leave.

“Good night, Fang,” Coco called out to him as he and the tailors went out the door.

“Sleep well, Coco,” Fang replied.

Only Coco and Chrysalis remained in the room. They looked at each other, waiting for the other to speak.

“I'll... go to bed then,” the pony said breaking the silence between them.

“Alright then.”

Chrysalis then walked over to Coco. She towered over her friend as she stood over Coco. Reaching out an arm, the queen hugged the mare closely. “Sleep well, my friend.” Coco didn't have time to respond to Chrysalis' embrace as the queen quickly let her go. “Good night.” In a flash, Chrysalis vanished in a bright light-green color. Sparkles shimmered in the air from the magical residue of the queen's power.

Smiling was the only thing Coco could do. Chrysalis really seems to like having me as a friend.
Letting out a loud yawn, the pony decided to get herself rested for tomorrows', or rather, today's later events.

***

What did you tell her?

N-nothing my queen!

You lie! You told her many things, didn't you?! Why else would she request Sea More of all other changelings?

I... I did tell her some things about Sea More and what you did for him... But remember what she said! S-she said he was the second changeling to treat her with kindness. It's not l-like I meant or did any harm. I trust her. Don't you?

I-! I do... Hmm... You are right Fang...

I... AM?

Yes... But I do want to ask you this, Fang: do you think she will keep our secrets?

I do.

And why do you trust her?

Love does not lie.

Hmm... I guess that's why I find myself trusting her as well. I can feel it from her.

Yeah.

***

“Good morning!” said a loud voice.

The voice caused Coco to twitch from her sleep. Her eyes met Sea More who had a happy smile on his face. Because the sun has not come up just yet, the gloomy morning skylight created a dark silhouette of the changeling.

“You could have just tapped me on the shoulder and I would have woken up easier...” Coco rebelled with a groan.

Sea More rubbed the back of his head. “Sorry, I am just a bit happy that you wish for me, a changeling, to come along with you.”

Writhing around a bit, the pony stretched herself out and got out of bed. “Well, you were the second changeling to treat me with kindness. I might as well have somechangeling that I trust.”

Without warning, Sea More flashed in front of Coco and was very close to her face. His expression was serious. “I believe your statement to be half true.”

“Why do you say that?” The mare was not pleased with Sea More's act. Great, I'm not even awake for a minute and already I have somechangeling in my face...

“Because Inferno Fang has told me that he told you about what I am: a halfling.”

Coco couldn't lie about that. “Yes, he did.”

“Fang also said that he told you about my personality and why I am the way I am.”

“Yes, he did tell me that as well.”

“So tell me, Coco, why do you want me to come along with you today?”

“I... wish to ask you a few questions. Chrysalis said I can ask you a few questions to any changeling I wished to bring along to Canterlot. I would like to know more about you is all...”

Sea More smiled brightly. “You wish to know more about me? I've never had a pony who wished to know more about me.”

A frown made its way to Coco's face. “W-what do you mean? Why would nopony wish to know more about you? Were ponies that mean to you?”

Sea More raised his hoof to stop Coco from saying anything else. “I think you should save the questions for the ride to Canterlot.”

“Right... But I have one more question before I start getting ready.”

“Sure, but this is your last one.”

“Do I... ask a lot of questions?”

Sea More chuckled, “Just get ready.”

***

“Are you ready?” Queen Chrysalis asked Coco as she sat in her carriage.

Looking up at her friend, Coco replied, “Yes I am.” Taking her step, she got in with the queen and sat on the opposite side of the carriage. Sea More was beside his queen and smiled at Coco while Chrysalis stared at the pony.

“Where is Fang?” Coco asked.

Chrysalis nudged Sea More and smirked. “I told you she would start asking questions as soon as she sat in the carriage.”

“I guess you where right about her being the 'questionmare.'”

“Are you going to just sit there and tease me all the way to Canterlot?” Coco snorted out of her nose in a gruff, irritated from their teasing.

“There is another question from the questionmare,” Sea More laughed.

“Haha!” Chrysalis howled.

“Fine,” the pony huffed and turned her head. “I won't ask any questions.”

“No surprise coming from the mare who knows nothing about us,” Sea More grinned.

Coco was confused by the changeling's comment. “What's that supposed to mean?”

“I thought you weren't going to ask any questions,” the queen replied.

“I...! YOU...! MMMMMMMMMMMM!”

Coco thumped her head on the wall of the carriage, frustrated by Chrysalis and Sea More's consistent teasing. Realizing her constant badgering was beginning to get on Coco's nerves, Chrysalis touched her friend's shoulder. “Have a sense of humor. We are just teasing.”

“Well, I would like for you to stop, please.”

“Fine...” Despite the fun now being ruined, Chrysalis would like to be on good terms with the pony.

A changeling came into view of the carriage door. It was Inferno Fang. He had a large sack on his back and it seemed to weigh him down. “Everything is set, my queen.”

“Good,” Chrysalis replied. “Give me the sack please.” Fang levitated the bag into the carriage. Its weight caused the wagon to sink slightly.

I wonder what's inside, the mare thought. As Chrysalis untied the end of the sack, a yellow light shined from within and caused the queen to squint.

“This will do,” the queen spoke as she looked at Sea More. “Wouldn't you agree?” He peered into the bag and nodded.

“May I?” Coco asked. She saw them smirk because she had asked a question. Instead of making a quip, Chrysalis hooved the untied end to her friend. When Coco looked into the bag, her mouth hung open. She understood why it was weighing Fang down. The sack was filled with golden objects, a countless amount of bits, and gems of all sort. Coco wanted to take the golden crown that sat on the mountain of coins and wear it. “This... this is incredible! Why do you have all this? How did you obtain all of these valuable treasures?”

“I'll answer that once we begin flying,” Chrysalis answered. She then turned to Fang. “Let's go. You know I do not like to be away from the hive for too long, so let's be sure we get everything done today.”

“Yes, my queen!”

Looking at Coco, Fang said, “I hope you enjoy the ride.”

“Just work on your landing,” the pony requested. “I remember how bumpy your crash landing almost killed me.”

“Don't get your hopes up.” With a smile and a nod, Inferno Fang closed the door to the wagon.

There was silence among the three individuals that sat in the soon to be changeling-drawn carriage. The carriage shook a little bit before it started to move. Neither Sea More nor Queen Chrysalis looked bothered by the rickety movement of the wagon. Coco, on the other hoof, tensed up as she watched the world from the outside quickly speed up. She did trust Fang, however, she did not trust the durability of the old wagon and wondered if it would fall apart at any moment. Soon, there was no more shaking. They were no longer on the ground, but up in the air.

Queen Chrysalis looked out the window, watching the objects of the world go by. She got a good look at her castle before it went out of view. “I do love looking at my hive from this view.” Turning to look at Coco, she continued, “Nothing is more satisfying to look at all your hard work and see the results pay off.”

“I hope my hard work will pay off.”

“You have already looked at the results of your hard work.”

Coco pondered at the queen's comment. “Do you mean how I saw your satisfaction with my dresses?”

“That's part of it.”

“Is the other result the friends that I have made?”

“A good portion, actually. However, you are missing one more result.”

The pony thought and thought, but could not come up with an answer. “I don't know what the last 'result' is...”

“Alright then,” Chrysalis spoke in a low tone as her eyes drifted to the bag full of treasure. “You see that sack?”

I remember asking you a question about it, so I guess you will be answering it then. “Yes, I see it.”

“Because we will be needing money to purchase merchandise at Canterlot, I brought enough to be sure we can buy everything we want and need.”

Coco chuckled, “Don't you think this is a bit overly excessive?” She poked the sack with her hoof wondering how much everything inside of the massive bag was worth.

“Excessive? No.”

“How come?”

“Because whatever we do not use out of this sack, that will be the payment for your efforts.”

You Asked for It

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Who you Work for
Ch. 17

Coco almost began to cry. “Did... you just say that everything we don't spend-”

“-Will be yours to keep,” Chrysalis replied with a friendly smile. “Must you always ask questions? You have asked four questions since we started flying, and it has not been three minutes.”

With a heart filled with emotion, Coco quickly scrambled from her seat and embraced the queen with a tight squeeze. Something warm tapped Queen Chrysalis' shoulder. They were tears of joy and they were coming from her friend.

“T-th-thank y-you!” Coco cried as she continued to maintain her hold on the changeling.

“Heh, I should be thanking you, my dear,” the queen replied. Coco didn't want to look up at Chrysalis because of the tears that ran down her face but did so anyway.

Slowing down her joyful sobbing, Coco asked, “Why should you be thanking me?”

“Because you gave us a chance. You looked at me and the other changelings with no hate, nor disgust. Not only have you proven your worth as a hard worker, but you have shown that you can be a great friend. I can never place a price on our friendship. You...” Chrysalis' throat hurt from her own emotions. “You... are special to me and the hive. You are the first pony to accept us with smiles and not leers and bared teeth.”

“I just think others should be given a chance, even if...”

Chrysalis raised a brow. “Even if what?”

Looking away, Coco replied, “...if they had already done something wrong.”

Chrysalis nodded without another word. Removing herself from the changeling, Coco went back to her original seat and looked back at Chrysalis and Sea More. Sea More looked happier than he did before, probably because of the event that had just happened. The queen just smiled back at the pony. It made Coco happy considering how her choice lead to a great reward.

As the mare looked at the sack of treasure, she wondered where it all came from. “So, how did you end up with all of this?” Coco gestured to the bag of gold and gems.

Chrysalis answered, “We have no need for money because all we desire is love. Love is the only thing that keeps us alive.” Her eyes stared down at the sack. “Throughout hundreds of years, we have accumulated treasure primarily from dragon dens that were abandoned. Dragons love their treasure, but cannot hold it all when they travel. Basically, we have collected the scraps of what a dragon had left behind only to use it in case we have to buy something from the other races of Equestria.”

Rubbing her chin, Coco said, “But you said 'primarily.' What other methods did you use to obtain treasure?”

“Only a few instances were treasure stolen, and all of the accounts of theft were done on a changeling's accord, not by me ordering them to do so.”

“Why would they steal if a changeling has no use for money?”

“Just pure greed. You cannot deny that that sack full of gold pleases you.”

“I could not disagree with that.” Just the thought of wondering what was inside the bag made Coco want to begin counting it all, starting with how many gems were in it.

“However,” Chrysalis continued, “when a changeling would do the act of theft, whatever was taken was immediately confiscated. No changeling should do anything to their heart's desire unless assists the hive. The changeling race is in my hooves, and I cannot allow my kind to be swayed by the distractions of the world.”

“Understandable.”

Clearing his throat, Sea More asked, “So, are we going to get to the part where you ask questions about me?”

“Hush!” Coco barked with teeth wielding grin. “I ask the questions around here.”

“Yeah,” Chrysalis replied with a similar smile as the pony. “She asks the questions. So shut up.”

Sea More did not look pleased with how the two mares were acting toward him but kept quiet so that he may not anger his leader.

“Besides,” Coco continued, “I have one more question for you Chrysalis specifically.”

“Ask away,” the queen responded.

Remembering the night before last, the pony thought about the time when she was in the pool with the other changelings and feeding the children. She remembered the parent who scolded their child and mentioned a particular changeling. “Left Wing...” the pony said softly. In an instant, Queen Chrysalis' attitude changed dramatically. Her face burned with anger. Coco hesitated to ask her question but did so anyway. “Who was Left Wing? Was he your husband?”

Letting out a loud sigh, Chrysalis calmed herself down and answered, “Yes, he was my husband. He was a lying sweet talker that only wanted what he desired, not caring about others... not even his daughter...”

“And his daughter was Beauty Fly, your daughter as well, right?”

“Yes...”

It didn't take any effort for Coco to see that her questions were affecting her friend's mood. “That's all I will ask you, Chrysalis.”

“Thank you,” Chrysalis responded as she looked down at the floor.

Now looking at Sea More, Coco began to think about the questions to ask him. But the more she thought about what to ask Sea More, other questions came to mind. Coco wanted to learn more about the hive and how they live.

“So...” the pony said as she tried to come up with a question. Sea More adjusted himself, eager to answer Coco's question. “How do changelings absorb love?”

Chrysalis and Sea More looked at the mare with interest. They expected her to ask a question, such as who was Sea More's father, or where does Sea More's mother live. Instead, it was a question that would better increase her knowledge in the ways of changelings.

“Well,” Sea More spoke, “changelings absorb love by the amount of care and effort that was put into something. For example, when we absorb love from a piece of art, if the artist put a lot of care into it, the more we can consume. If we absorb love from a pony, such as yourself, it varies on how much care is directed toward us. If somepony were to be affectionate toward us, the more we can absorb. If somepony were to have hatred toward us, little to nothing can be taken. And even if we can absorb love from one who has bitter intentions against us, it tastes sour or bitter.

“Interesting... How is love stored into something and how does it become food?”

“Think of us changelings more like insects than pony,” Chrysalis replied. “The best way I can explain it is how bees react to those who get near their hive.”

“I don't like bees...” Coco shivered.

“Neither do we...” Sea More replied.

“Shut up!” Chrysalis barked at him. “I am the one answering this question.”

I didn't know it was a contest to answer my questions, Coco thought.

“So, bees. Now let's say two ponies are near a hive of bees. One of them hears the bees and remains calm. The other panics and begins to hyperventilate, letting out a lot of adrenalin and carbon dioxide. Because of the one who is worried about the bees, the insects are able to smell them and track them down. So now the two of them begin to run and both run opposite directions. The one who is more worried is chased by more bees. As the panicked pony is running, she jumps into a body of water and hided underneath the surface. Because of her act, they can no longer pursue because of a barrier of water and a loss of where the scent went.”

“How does your example of bees relate to changelings?”

“Because love has a particular scent. If you were to picture it the way we see it, love is like a pink haze that wisps off of something. If somepony is directing love toward us, the scent moves at us and we don't have to use magic to absorb the love out of a pony. All a changeling needs to do is inhale and take in the love from there.” The statement, “we don't have to use magic to absorb the love out of a pony,” make Coco shiver.

“You can take love out of a pony by force?” Coco asked.

“Yes we can,” Chrysalis spoke in a deep tone. “However, by doing so, the love is almost more bitter than sweet because we are stealing the emotion that feeds us.”

“I thought you said changelings who steal do it out of pure greed...”

“I never said stealing is done out of greed.” The queen was not snide with her response toward Coco. “Sometimes we have to use force. But like I said, by using force, the love is usually bitter.”

Coco wondered what it would be like if a changeling were to have the love sucked out of her. “Can you steal a little bit of love out of me, just to know what it feels like?”

Her statement made Chrysalis uneasy. “Are you sure? It will create immense discomfort...”

“I've been thrown off of a balcony and trampled by children. I think I can handle it.”

“Very well.” Getting up from her seat, the queen went over to her friend. She gingerly touched Coco's face and rubbed her hoof on her cheek. Blushing, the mare looked at Sea More so that she may not look at Chrysalis' calm stare. In an instant, Coco felt her eyes widen, her neck stiffen upwards, and her mouth left wide open. She found herself unable to move.

The only thing Coco was able to do was to stare at Chrysalis' harsh stare. Coco felt her energy being sapped from her. She also felt something else. Something she did not expect. Coco felt her happiness fading from her. All of the good memories of her past life began to become a blur. Soon, Coco could not remember anything about herself. She felt lost.

“Come forward,” Chrysalis' spoke.

No longer in control, the mare moved by the sound of her voice. The pony got up and stood in the small space of the wagon.

“Do you see that changeling?” Chrysalis gestured to Sea More. Coco nodded. “Go to him. Embrace him. Love him. Give him everything.”

“M-my queen! I think you have done quite enough!” But it was no use. Sea More watched as Coco Pommel climbed up to him. Her pupils and irises were now one color: dark-green. Leaning in to kiss him, the pony slowly closed her eyes. Sea More froze as her arms went around his torso. Then a rush of love coursed through him as the mare's lips lightly touched his neck. He inhaled quickly to suck that pink haze that wafted off of Coco. It was a flavor of love Sea More had not yet tasted before.

“H...hugh?” Lifting her head, Coco looked at Sea More and he looked back. Noticing her hold on Sea More, Coco quickly scrambled away and back onto her seat. Shivering, the mare scooted to the corner of the wagon and stared into it.

“Are you alright, my friend?” Chrysalis asked.

Very slowly did Coco turn her head. Her cheeks were red and her eyes were filled with tears. “No... I am not... That was... a terrible and embarrassing experience.”

On her own accord, the queen moved herself to Coco's side and came close to her. Like a magnet, the pony leaned over to her friend and rested her head onto Chrysalis' shoulder. “That is just one way how us changelings can sap love from-”

“I don't want to know anymore. No more... please...”

“You asked for it. You said-”

“I know what I said!” Coco yelled. “I just... no more questions from me right now, okay.

Chrysalis held her friend. “I understand.”

Your Majesty

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PUMBUTUMPUM! The carriage made a loud crashing sound as it bounced on the dirt trail. Fang attempted to make a softer landing, but the dirt path was covered in rocks. The last thing he wanted to do was trip and get hurt. Coming to a complete stop, Fang looked at the Canterlot Castle, his heart burning with anger. He knew that the princess who caused his queen such pain and misery lived behind those walls of white stone. But Fang did not let his anger get to him and remembered what he was doing: assisting Queen Chrysalis and Coco Pommel with the day's shopping.

I hope Coco isn't angry with my landing, the changeling grinned. Removing the saddle that strapped him to the carriage, he went over to the door and opened it. “Alright everychangeling, we are almost there.” Fang was expecting Coco to be bombarding Chrysalis and Sea More with endless questions. Instead, everyone looked at him with blank stares. Sea More was sitting to the left of the cabin by himself and Chrysalis and Coco were close to each other on the right. Coco was looking a bit upset as she bunched herself close against the queen.

“Is everything alright?” he asked as he looked at Coco.

“Just... a little frightened...” Her eyes shied away from the changeling as he asked his question.

Turning to his queen, Fang spoke, “Why does she look so scared?”

Chrysalis answered with a calm voice, “She wanted to know what it was like to have love sucked out of her.”

“Y-you did what?!” His outburst did not please the queen.

“Do not yell at me,” Chrysalis answered with a blunt tone. It surprised the guard that she did not yell back at him, considering his volume was uncalled for. “She is fine now. All she needs for the moment is comfort. If you like, you may see to her.” Back to her friend, Chrysalis looked down at her. “In fact, since you two get along, you may walk with him if you like.”

Coco liked the idea. “Yeah, a nice walk will do me some good.”

Removing herself from her seat, the pony got up and took a quick glance at Chrysalis before moving toward the door. The sack of gold was not in her way, so getting out of the wagon was not too difficult.

“I do hope you feel better once we get into the walls of the castle,” said the queen from behind.

Coco took a gander at Chrysalis and smiled at her, “Thanks.”

“Make haste, Fang,” Chrysalis spoke in her usual serious tone. “We do not have all day and cannot afford time to be wasted.

“Yes, my queen,” Fang replied with a nod. Gingerly, he closed the door to the carriage. With Coco all alone with him, he looked at her with concern. “Are you feeling any better, Coco?”

“I guess...” Staring down at the ground, Coco's eyes danced around counting the stones at her hooves. “I just want to forget the experience is all.”

Fang's heart fluttered, knowing what he had to do in order to keep his friend calm. “T-then forget what just happened and remember this.” Fang made a quick advancement at Coco and embraced her. In response, her cheek and snout brushed against his neck. Whether her affectionate act was intentional or not, Fang inhaled and took in the love she presented.

“Are you feeling better now?” Fang asked as he carefully pulled away from his friend.

To Fang's surprise, Coco looked a lot happier. “A hug from you is just enough to make me smile.”

“Do I always have the answer to your problems?” Fang joked.

A giggle escaped the mare. “Maybe.” Both pony and changeling looked at each other for a moment without speaking. “So shall we be going?”

“Yes. If we stand out here any longer, I believe the queen will throw a fit.”

“I HEARD THAT!”

Both startled by Chrysalis' outburst, the two of them ran to the front of the carriage. Fang quickly adjusted the saddle onto his back and began to pull the wagon.

***

Coco and Fang walked in silence as they approached the castle walls. It was a surprise to Fang that the mare was not asking any questions. But he knew why she was quiet as well.

Fang was no longer in his changeling self, but disguised as his unicorn form. His mane was glimmering like a stained glass window as the sun shined down on him. Every once in a while, Coco would glance at his red colored hair, amazed by it. In fact, she was beginning to get a few ideas for a dress line up because of his choice of mane. Coco also got a glance at his cutie mark, not that it mattered what it looked like, considering Fang was a changeling. It was a simple ember that engulfed a sharp fang. So if anypony were to try and guess his name, most would get half of it right.

The sun was up in the air, shining down on the land of Equestria. If Coco were to have guessed, it was still early morning and that there was plenty of time to have things accomplished. Soon, they were walking into the kingdom of Canterlot.

“Here we are,” Fang replied quietly. Coco heard him and looked to the changeling. He smiled at her as she looked at him. “I hope you are feeling better.”

“I am. I'm still a bit shaken up...” Coco was still shaken up by the events that had happened in the carriage. However, knowing that the day had just begun, Coco knew that there was plenty of time to forget the morning's incident.

“Understandable,” Fang replied. Fang knew the effects of a changeling sucking the love out of a pony. He could remember the first pony he had to take love by force.

It was during the Canterlot invasion. A mother was standing over her child as she shivered in the corner of a back alleyway. Fang slowly came to her as the mother helplessly watched him come to her. As soon as he got close enough, Fang shot a green beam at the mare's head and began to sap the love out of her. The child began to scream and hit Fang, trying to free her mother from the changeling's spell. When Fang felt full, he stopped his spell. The mother collapsed onto the floor and shivered. Fang watched the mare look at him with despair and hopelessness. In a burst of courage, the child stood in front of her mother, pointing her horn at Fang. The filly's horn sparked with magic as she attempted to conjure a spell that will make the changeling go away. With all of her strength she had, the girl yelled, “You stay away from my mother!” Before he knew it, a magical force shoved him into the air. As he flew through the air, Fang noticed other changelings, including his queen, were being repelled away from Canterlot.

Fang was later informed that the force that pushed everychangeling into the sky was the combined power of Cadence and Shining Armor. Even though the raid was a failure, the hive was satisfied with the amount of love that was obtained, so the invasion was not a total loss.

The memory of the mother who Fang had sucked the love out was burned into his mind. For some reason, it didn't haunt him; however, he still felt bad for the child he scarred. Whenever the thought began to bother the changeling, he kept telling himself, “I had no choice. I did it for my queen and the survival of my race. It's your princess' fault that causes us to create harm.”

Shaking his head to remove a past memory, Fang looked at Coco again and saw she was smiling. The mare was turning her head left and right, wondering which store would be the best one to start at. She was beginning to forget the incident in the carriage quite quickly and effectively.

“I'm starting to get excited,” Coco said to Fang.

“How so?” he asked.

Coco giggled and looked forward. “I've... never really had friends who would go shopping with me.”

Fang frowned, “Why would nopony want to attend your company while you shop?”

“They just never had the time I guess,” Coco shrugged. “It is very nice to have Chrysalis invite me. Which reminds me...”

The changeling saw gears working as Coco brought a hoof to her chin. “Do you have a question to ask?”

Coco gave a half smirk. “Am I that easy to read?”

“I just know what to expect from you.”

Rolling her eyes, she answered, “Yes, I do have a question. Not for you, but for Chrysalis.”

“Then go ask her. I'm sure she would not mind her friend speaking to her.”

“Alright.” In a slow retreat, Coco went over to the carriage door. Fang came to a complete stop so that the mare can open the door without running the risk of being injured by the wagon wheels. There were very few ponies in the street so stopping was not going to harm anypony.

Coco felt the need to be polite and knocked on the door. “Are we safe to come out?” Chrysalis asked.

Coco looked back at Fang and was about to ask him if it was safe for the queen to come out. But Fang gave a nod without any words. He knew if they acted suspiciously, the Canterlot guards will be on their tails in no time.

“Yes, it is,” Coco replied. “But I just wanted to ask you a question.”

Queen Chrysalis opened the door with ease and looked down at her friend. “I thought I said no questions when we get to Canterlot.”

Coco was in awe. She looked up at the now disguised changeling, almost jealous of her beauty. Chrysalis was no more her black-skinned self, but a lovely white unicorn with a beautiful flow of blonde hair. The cutie mark on her flank was a saber with a blue pommel. The blade was bent like a waxing crescent and had a yellow glimmer near the tip of the sword.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” Chrysalis asked, uncomfortable by the way the pony was looking up at her.

“You look beautiful. Like... wow.”

Chrysalis' ego inflated. “And I thought I couldn't get any more beautiful.” She brought her hoof to her mane and flicked her wrist into the air. Her hair danced in the breeze as it slowly went up and then back down onto her shoulders. Chrysalis' voice was also different. It was very feminine and beautiful to the ear. “So, what is it that you wish to ask me?”

“Oh! Right... umm” Coco had to collect her thoughts again, trying not to admire the queen's facade. “How come you wanted me to come shopping with you? Sure you could have just paid me and sent me home. But instead, here we are in Canterlot, ready to buy clothes. I asked this question before and you didn't answer.”

What happened next surprised the pony. Chrysalis' cheeks began to radiate blush. “Well, the thing is...” Ugh, must she always ask stupid questions that fluster me?! “I- I- wish to have you accompany me for just a little longer.”

“Hmm?” Coco hummed as she turned her head. “How come?”

“Well... I've never had a pony friend and... the love you give is... tasty.” The word “tasty” made Coco feel slightly uncomfortable and Chrysalis saw that. “You also, again, have accepted me without judging me or my kind bitterly. You have listened to my story and understand the pain that I have endured. You truly are a very caring and generous pony.”

“And I thank you for being my friend as well.” The two mares smiled at each other before Chrysalis removed herself from the carriage.

I also wish to be your friend for a while longer before we have to part ways, Chrysalis thought as she came down. She did not want to say that to her friend, considering it may upset the pony and make her think that she was being used just as a food source.

Sea More was now making his way out of the wagon and was now a pegasus. He had a turquoise body color and his mane was a dark blue-green. His cutie mark was a palm tree that settled in sand and a sun hovered to the right of the plant. “It was about time you moved, my queen.”

A harsh blow came to Sea More's chest as Chrysalis bucked her right leg into his gut. The stallion cringed downward, the wind knocked out of him, and crumpled to the ground, kicking up dust as he fell with a thump. When Sea More tried to inhale, he sounded like he was trying to suck in his voice box.

Chrysalis turned to Sea More and looked down at him. “Get up.” Sea More could not respond because he could not catch his breath. “I barely touched you. My daughter received worse punishment when she disobeyed me and she didn't overreact like you are right now. She knew how to tough it out.” Still, Sea More could not answer. “You want me to strike you for real?” Chrysalis asked with a raise of her brow. “Because I can. And this time, I will use magic.” Not wanting her to do any more harm to himself, Sea More staggered up and tried to remain still. “I thought so,” Chrysalis turned, facing Coco. “Sea More, pull the carriage so Fang can rest and walk among myself and Coco.”

Coco looked at Sea More unable to help him. Limping over to Fang, Sea More saw his friend smirking, trying to hold in a laugh.

“Shut up,” Sea More spoke bluntly, despite Fang not saying anything. Fang removed himself from the front and made way for the pegasus.

It took a few moments before Sea More got the harness on correctly. Must she inflict pain on me? A shock of electricity struck him in the flank and looked back. He noticed smoke was drifting off his burnt skin. He also noticed his queen was right beside him. “Walk!” she ordered.

In fear of angering Queen Chrysalis, Sea More moved forward with haste.

Turning to Coco, the disguised queen gave her a smile and said, “Shall we begin our shopping?”

The pony looked unsure about the question. “May I ask just... one more thing before we shop?”

Chrysalis let out a sarcastic sigh. “What is it? You wish to know the day I was born? When was the hive formed? What?”

“I would like to eat something, please. I didn't have breakfast and would like something in my stomach before we begin.”

Coco's eyes stared into Chrysalis' with innocence. Chrysalis felt slightly bad for assuming her friend was trying to ask another question about herself of the hive.

“Of course,” the queen replied. “Choose any place you wish to dine at.”

***

It was a small and innocent looking cafe, which is why Coco chose it. Coco, Chrysalis, and Fang were sitting at a booth that had comfortable cushions and a small lantern that dangled above the table by a wire. Fang sat next to his queen on the outside of the booth while Coco was by herself. Sea More was left outside to stand by the carriage to keep eye on the treasure that lay within it.

In front of the pony was a plate that had a toasted panini that had spinach and melted cheese inside it. She had taken a bite out of one half and held it in her hoof. Coco smiled as she ate, knowing that warm cheese made it so much more enjoyable to taste and eat.

While she sat there, Coco watched the two disguised changelings sit in front of her in silence, staring at her, making the pony feel slightly awkward. Coco looked around the cafe as she took another bite to see that it was quite busy, considering breakfast hours were still in effect. She remembered her job back in Manehattan and how crazy the morning rush can be.

Coco also remembered something else: she was with two changelings; one of them being the queen. If she said Chrysalis' name aloud, others might think she was either crazy, or it may blow their cover. The pony has already gained their trust and Coco was not willing to lose it over a simple phrase, such as, “So Chrysalis, how was your morning?”

There was a small piece of paper that rested behind the salt and pepper shakers that said in bold: How was your service? There were lines that indicated that that was the place to write.

A small pencil was held in a spiral wire beside the paper. Placing down her sandwich, Coco grabbed the pencil and paper, turning it on its blank side. Writing quickly, the mare wrote down: What shall I call you since you are disguised as somepony else? As she was writing, Fang and Chrysalis looked at each other, wondering what the pony was up to.

When Coco finished, she then slid the paper over to Chrysalis in silence. Lowering her head to see the small hoofwriting, the queen read the note. She looked elsewhere as she thought of a name. Then it came to her. Chrysalis used her magic of levitation to take the pencil off the table and quickly wrote on it.

Coco noticed that the queen had a smug grin as she hoofed the paper over. As the pony took it, she read the answer. Coco giggled quietly as she read: Call me Your Majesty.

“Say, Your Majesty,” Coco chuckled a bit before continuing. “...today has been a lovely day, hasn't it.”

“Just saying my name makes the day even better,” Chrysalis replied as she raised her head proudly. Fang had no interjection or say on his queen's statement. He knows she can inflate her ego and prefers that she does so anyway.

“You are just not very talkative when out in public, are you Your Majesty?”

“Just... not much to talk about,” Chrysalis shrugged. She looked at Fang and asked, “What can we talk about?”

“Well Your Majesty,” Fang answered, “I do think we should discuss how we are going to shop here in Canterlot.”

“I think so as well,” Chrysalis answered. Placing her elbows on the table, the queen bent her left wrist and rested her chin on it and looked at Coco. “Do you remember how many dresses we need?”

“Eleven,” Coco answered.

“And what about outfits for the stallions?”

“Nine.”

“You sure do remember a lot.”

“Well, you did tell me what you needed last night, so it was not hard to remember.”

Chrysalis shrugged, “Point taken.” She was relieved to know that her friend was on top of what was needed to get done and didn't have to explain herself again. Chrysalis hated explaining herself twice. “Considering we are in Canterlot, it should not be too difficult to find a shop that has what we need.”

“Are there any particular dresses or outfits you are looking out for? A theme perhaps?” Coco asked as she took another bite out of her sandwich.

“I... never considered that.” Chrysalis gave the pony's question some thought. The dress that Coco made for me was blue and white, whereas the outfit for Fang was Red and Black. “If we are going for a theme, I would say the mares should be dressed in blue and the stallions in red.”

“Alright. I really like the idea,” Coco added with a smile.

The queen smirked, “And here I thought you were going to ask another question.” Fang could not help himself and let out a small “pfft” as he heard the queen's comment.

Looking at Fang, Coco asked, “Did Your Majesty give you permission to make an input?”

“Yes,” Chrysalis replied to the question and turned her attention toward him. “Did I give you permission to make any remark?”

Both mares laughed amongst themselves as Fang felt singled out as they teamed up on him with a quip. “Don't worry, Fang,” Coco spoke with a smile. “I'm just teasing you.”

“I bet you are,” Fang smirked.

As they looked at each other, Coco admired her friend Inferno Fang. He was the first friend that had ever stood up for her. She remembered how he stood against her former boss with an unbreakable attitude and Coco wanted to make it up to him.

“Say, Your Majesty,” Coco asked with a bit of uncertainty in her voice. “Can I request something?”

“Anything for the questionmare.” The queen looked at Fang who was struggling to hold in a laugh. “You can make an input if you like now.” With permission, Fang let out a chuckle as Chrysalis laughed along with him.

Ignoring the joke made toward her, Coco asked, “I was wondering, once we are done with shopping if Fang and I can just walk around Canterlot for a short while. Just the two of us.”

All laughter stopped.

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Who you Work For
Ch. 19

Coco was stared at by the two disguised changelings in silence. Fang looked slightly nervous as Chrysalis took an emotionless gander at him before back to her friend.

“Did I... say something wrong?” the pony asked with the turn of her head.

Chrysalis answered, “Are you growing fond of Fang, Coco?”

“Maaaaaybe,” Coco replied with a smile. “But to answer your question, I am fond of him. He has stood up for me the day he met me and-” She paused as she tried to make sure she will say the right thing. Her cheeks showed that she was flustered about something. “...he also has a shoulder for me to cry on.”

“Is that so...?” Chrysalis was more interested than upset upon hearing Coco's reason as to why she wanted time alone with him. Fang was interested in her reason as well, while being nervous by his queen's constant stare. He was grateful that the pony was very open to him, but he was worried that she had other thoughts in mind. Fang didn't want Chrysalis to think that they are becoming more than just friends.

“Very well. If it makes you happy, you two can have your time alone together. However, there are no promises that it will happen considering the task at hoof.”

“I understand,” Coco answered with a nod. “Business before pleasure.”

After their words were exchanged, the pony finished her sandwich with several larger bites than what she had done before. Coco could tell that Chrysalis wanted to get their shopping done sooner than later and decided to make haste. Before they left, Coco left a few bits in the tip jar and complemented the cooks on the sandwich. Coco left ahead of Chrysalis and Fang as the two of them slowly walked out. Fang looked back to his queen to see if she had anything to say to him about Coco's request, but she did not. All she did was stare, so Fang remained silent.

As they exited as well, they went over to Sea More as he stood in a lot next to the store. Coco was already with Sea More, talking about her breakfast. “How was your meal?” Sea More asked with a smile.

“Very filling and warm,” Coco answered.

“You know what my mother made for me for breakfast on the occasion? Stuffed pancakes with strawberries and frosting on top.”

Somehow, Coco's stomach was no longer full and her mouth watered as she tried to picture and taste Sea More's mother's signature food.

“I think we need to focus on the shopping for now and worry about food later,” Chrysalis spoke as she placed her hoof on Coco's shoulder.

“Sorry, Your Majesty...” Coco answered.

“'Your Majesty...?'” Sea More seemed confused as he looked at the three of them. I thought we were undercover...

Fang cleared his throat, went to his friend, and whispered in Sea More's ear, “We are calling the queen that when she is disguised as that unicorn.”

“Understood,” Sea More spoke low. “I was wondering what we were going to call her, so good to know we have a name now.”

“Agreed.”

“Ahem,” Chrysalis cleared her throat loudly. “I believe we should get today's task finished before Celestia takes the light away from us.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” both said at the same time.

Sea More adjusted himself and pulled the carriage out of the lot and onto the street. “Are you three getting in or shall we all be walking on hoof?”

Queen Chrysalis looked at her pony friend. “Do you prefer to walk or sit in the carriage?”

“Umm... I think on hoof would be more beneficial. We can see all the stores that are around the kingdom and pick and choose which one to go into.”

“So be it.”

With their minds made up, the four of them began to make their way through Canterlot. It didn't take long before Chrysalis opened up a conversation to Coco and asked about the lifestyle of the fashion industry. Coco explained that it was quite a competitive field to get into because of the many dresses and outfits that are being put on the market. She also explained that there are different trends that are seasonal and go out of style once a season is over.

“Why do certain outfits go out of style?” Fang asked Coco.

“There is a term called 'what's hot and what's not.' When a particular design, color selection, or even apparel is in a trend, that is what is hot. When something is not, the fashion industry sees that particular dress, hat, or whatever as unappealing.”

“Who decides what is hot and what is not?” Sea More asked.

Coco let out a sigh, “The media...”

“I can understand why you don't like them,” Chrysalis spoke.

“Yeah... It doesn't matter what you or I may find appealing. They dictate what is good and what is bad.”

“I honestly despise those who dictate...” Coco looked at Chrysalis and smirked at her with a raise of her brow. “Hey, I may be a...” Chrysalis stopped herself and brought her mouth to the pony's ear. “...queen... BUT!” Chrysalis began to talk normally again, “...I at least give others a chance to speak their opinion. Am I right?” she asked as she looked at Sea More and Fang.

“Of course Your Majesty,” Fang responded with a nod.

“You are the most caring to us and those who follow you,” Sea More agreed.

“See!” Chrysalis spoke as she lifted her head up high.

“Are you two just kissing her flank?” Coco asked jokingly, smirking at her tall friend. Chrysalis scowled at the pony upon hearing the remark.

“Yes,” Sea More replied honestly.

The queen did not have to look to where he was, considering he was right behind him. She gave a quick buck with her right leg and hit him square in the chest. He coughed and hunched over in pain, causing those he was following to watch him keel over in pain. It embarrassed him that other ponies saw what had happened and stared at him.

“Will you ever learn to watch your mouth?” Chrysalis asked. She then turned to Fang and asked, “Do you just kiss my flank?”

“Of course not,” he responded nervously, knowing that if he didn't butter up his reply, Fang would end up like his idiot friend. “You have given me many great things, and I could not be any more grateful.”

Chrysalis let out a light chuckle and then looked at Coco, who stared back with the same smirk as earlier. “Hey, he was being rude. Sometimes you have to put others in their place to assert your dominance.”

“Kind of like how a dictator deals pain to those who oppose them or speaks of something that is not to their liking.”

The queen knew that she had been cornered by her friend. “L... let's just keep walking.”

“I don't think that is necessary,” Coco spoke slowly.

“Why do you say that my friend?” Chrysalis noticed that Coco was looking through a window.

“I think we found our first shop.”

“Oh... Wonderful. Shall we?”

“As long as you promise to not kick Sea More again.”

The queen grunted. You are no fun... “Fine...”

Coco gave her a wide smile, “Thanks.”

Fang went over to the store door and opened it for his queen, gesturing for her to enter. She went in without hesitation. Coco heard a voice from inside, “Welcome to Canterlot's very own, Success and Dress boutique!”

Coco went over to Sea More, who was still in pain. “Are you alright?” she asked.

Sea More grinned, “I have gone through worse. Trust me.”

“Okay... I just want to be sure you are okay.”

“Thanks for caring at least,” the stallion smiled.

The mare giggled a bit before walking inside. Fang was still holding the door open, waiting for her to enter. Before walking inside himself, Fang looked at Sea More, who gave him a wink before looking elsewhere. Fang huffed out of his snout as he turned to go into the building. He saw Coco and Chrysalis standing in front of the store counter as the employee who worked there conversed with them.

“Yes, we do have dresses that fit your needs,” the clerk spoke. “Unfortunately, we do not have any stallion outfits in the color red...”

“That is fine,” Chrysalis replied. “So long as we get what we need here, the less amount of spending is needed. Besides, I have my tailor here who can... patch up any holes if we need to make any more dresses or outfits. She is one of the best designers out there you know.”

Coco blushed as she was thrown on the spot as the pony at the counter giggled at Chrysalis' pun. Fang approached from behind and waited, so that he may not intrude on the conversation.

“Oh, so you make dresses, yes?” the employee asked as she looked at the earth pony. Coco nodded in response, still flustered by the fact that Chrysalis put her on the spot. “I presume that you are partaking in the contest that is being held at the Grand Galloping Gala, correct?”

Suddenly, Coco's expression writhed into a confused emotion. Her brow creased as she looked at Chrysalis. “What?” Chrysalis asked in an uncertain tone.

“You didn't tell me that there was a contest being told at the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“I didn't?” the disguised queen replied stupidly, making it obvious that she did not tell Coco an important detail about the ball on purpose.

“No, you did not. All you told me was that the theme of the gala was 'the princess and her shining armor.'”

The employee raised her hoof so that she may grab both mares' attention. Coco and Chrysalis turned to look at her, wondering what input she was going to make. “That isn't the theme of the gala, that is the theme of the contest.”

Panicked emotions began to flood through Coco's body. “W-why didn't you tell me about the contest?”

Chrysalis calmly replied, “I felt there was no need to.”

“Well, you should have told me!” Coco began to pace the floor while Fang continued to spectate all that was happening. The employee felt slightly uncomfortable with the situation that was unfolding before her, and Chrysalis was wondering why her friend was behaving in such a worried manner.

Coco began to speak aloud as her thoughts came out of her mouth. “What if my designs are terrible? Will others think my outfits are even appealing? Who-”

“Coco!” Chrysalis blurted out as she stepped into the pony's constant pacing. Coco stopped suddenly and looked up at the queen with worried eyes. “This is exactly why I didn't tell you about the contest. I figured whomever I hired, I would not tell them about the contest because they may panic and leave the job entirely.” Despite her words, Coco did not believe her friend. The tall mare sighed as she collected her thoughts, trying to think of a way to keep her friend from panicking any further. “I have the utmost faith that your dresses will do well in the contest. You have wowed me with your amazing designs and I have never been impressed by a pony that much.” Considering you are the only pony who has wowed me... “Besides, I would have told you that your dresses needed work if they did, but they don't.”

The queen's remark made Coco calm down and Chrysalis could tell that her words were helping. “You are very good at what you do, and I hope that you do not stop what you love to do anytime soon.”

“Aww, thanks,” Coco finally responded with a streak of blush in her cheeks and a silly grin on her face. She looked at Fang who gave her a comforting smile. “Sorry for acting the way I was... I just... I've never had any of my designs on the spot before.”

“What about the dresses you made during that one contest out in Manehattan?”

“I was using somepony else's fabric. It was not my original creation by technicality.”

“But did your creations wow the competition?”

“Y-yes.”

“Then you should have nothing to worry about Coco.” Chrysalis placed her hoof on Coco's shoulder and smiled down at her friend. “Besides, this contest may very well get your name out.”

The pony gasped at statement. She never considered it like that before. Coco has heard that the Grand Galloping Gala has many famous faces who attend, including Sapphire Shores, Spitfire, Hoity Toity, and many more. Maybe either one of them or others may be looking for a tailor to work for them.

“I see that you are pondering the possibilities that may come out of the contest, including first place.”

“Yeah.” Coco could feel her spirits being lifted after hearing Chrysalis' encouraging statement. She smiled at her friend and gave her a hug.

“Good. Now let's not worry about the contest right now and worry more about shopping.”

***

The time it took for the four of them to obtain ten outfits proved more difficult than Chrysalis had hoped. Because of the theme that she was aiming for, it was hard to find dresses with the color blue and outfits with the color red. The red outfits were proving more difficult than the blue dresses as they only had two. The time was three o' clock and Coco was beginning to get hungry.

“Shall we get some food please?” Coco asked as she, Chrysalis, Fang, and Sea More walked down the streets of Canterlot. Neither Fang nor Sea More answered because they knew better than to answer for their queen. Fang didn't want another rock chucked at his head and Sea More didn't want to get kicked in the chest, despite the queen promising Coco that she would not buck him.

Chrysalis' eyes darted around, looking for any store that may have what they need. She didn't even hear her friend's request because she was doing her best to find anything within any windows they came across.

“Umm, Your Majesty?” Saying the name broke Chrysalis' concentration and looked down at the pony. “Can I please get something to eat?”

Chrysalis frowned upon hearing her friend because she did not want to stop what they were doing. Also, she was a changeling. She and her two guards did not need any means of food that had to be ingested. But, because Coco was not a changeling, Chrysalis would rather not have her friend starve from hunger. Just the thought alone made Chrysalis' heart cramp.

“Yes,” Chrysalis finally answered. “Forgive me. I am just very focused on getting today's task done.”

Coco understood her friend's reasoning and smiled, “Don't worry. I understand how you feel.”

“Good,” the large changeling smiled back. Both Sea More and Fang smiled at each other, knowing that their queen is in a good mood. “Where would you like to eat?”

“I saw this bakery that I would love to stop by. I saw some tasty treats in the window and would love to dig my teeth into something sweet.”

“Where is it?”

“I think... it was on Orchard Way.”

“I remember where it is,” Sea More answered with a smile. “It's not that far from here.” But something was off about him as Coco looked at him. He was blinking rapidly.

“Something in your eyes?” Coco asked.

“Yeah,” he replied as he clenched his eyes tightly.

The strange behavior didn't stop there. Now both Fang and Chrysalis were doing it.

“Are you three okay?”

“Yes,” Chrysalis answered. “The dust from the air somehow caught wind and into my eyes.

“Same here,” Fang spoke immediately after his queen.

Coco didn't seem to be bothered by the air. In fact, it looked quite clean by the looks of things. But she could not argue that sometimes small particles can enter anyponies' eyes at any moment.

“Well... shall we make our way to the bakery?” Coco asked.

“Of course,” Sea More replied with a smile. “Follow me.” He made a hard right, causing the three he was following to turn around to go his way.

Coco smiled as she went to Sea More's side, eager to fill her stomach with something sweet. Fang and Chrysalis stayed a bit behind the carriage, out of the pony's view.

From there, they continued to blink at each other.

How long have we been followed, Fang?

Quite some time actually...

And you have kept this from me for so long?!

I have been trying to find the right time to tell you, my Queen...

I understand. So how many more?

Just one. Happens to be a mare.

Let's hope we can get rid of her soon then, yes?

Understood, my Queen.

Not far behind Chrysalis and Fang was a pony who peaked her head around the corner. The pony's heart was racing and her expression was an angry one.

Under her breath, Suri Polomare said, “I will expose you, changeling. I know who you are.” Even though he couldn't see her, he could feel her stare hit him in the back of the head.

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Ch. 20

Sea More and Chrysalis sat at a table inside the bakery, waiting for Coco to come back with her treats. Fang told Coco that he wanted to stand watch at their carriage and so that Sea More can rest himself. The two changelings watched the pony standing in front of a glass casing, browsing the various tasty deserts that sat on their own individual plates. There were brownies, many cookies, and even fruit flavored loaves of bread.

Chrysalis did not know how long her friend was standing there, so she looked at Sea More and began to blink at him.

Fang is in pursuit of the pursuer Sea More.

Sea More blinked back, Do you think that would be necessary, my Queen? The pony following us most likely knows who we are. Do think others might believe her if she spoke up?

Not likely, but any word of changeling activity will spark suspicion anywhere.

Sea More scratched his chin. You are right my queen. I just hope Fang does not cause too much of a ruckus.

How could you doubt your own friend? Fang is my personal guard who stands by my side. I have the utmost faith that he will do a good job. You should have faith in him as well.

I do, my Queen.

***

Suri peered through a window and saw Coco and those accompanying her. The earth pony stared with fire in her eyes. Accursed changelings, she thought. Curse them for ruining my reputation! She was inside a bookstore as she watched her former employee and changelings from a distance. She was never a reader and never considered ever making herself one.

Letting out a sigh, Suri closed her eyes. She thought about what had happened the last few days. It has only been five days since Coco was taken away from the horrible changeling that revealed itself to Suri. Suri remembered how she ran away from the train station in fear, wondering if there are other changelings in Manehattan. Going to the boutique she was working for, Suri told her coworkers what had just happened. Instead of taking her side, they looked at her stupidly, not believing a single word, with good reason. They didn't believe her because of the gossip she had stirred up before with other past employees, even causing a few to quit because of it. In other words, Suri's reputation was not in the best light at her job.

Suri went to her boss and told her about the changeling encounter as well and even her boss was a bit suspicious. Her boss asked Suri why she was the only one who had stories about other ponies and not about herself. The only thing Suri was able to respond with was a jumbled response of stuttered words, nervous that her past gossiping was coming to unleash its vengeance upon her.

“You know Suri,” her boss told her, “I have heard every single one of your stories, some of them more ridiculous than others. Almost every time you have told me a story, it has cost an employee their job or caused somepony to quit.” When Suri heard her boss' words, she knew she was backed into a corner. “So,” her boss continued, “you expect me to believe that your past employee, Coco, who you told me and others that she assaulted you, was now working for changelings? What? Are you jealous that she found work?” Suri had no reply for her boss. “I don't know if you are telling the truth about anything anymore.”

“B-but I-”

“Enough!” The boss was livid and did not want to hear anything else from Suri. “Ever since you have entered my store, I have noticed that a lot of negative things have happened to several of my past employees. I don't believe you. Your so-called changeling story is nothing more than a lie to try and attack your past employee, regardless of what she did to you; I don't even know if ANY of your stories you have told me are true. Your storytelling days are over here at my store. You're fired.”

Lost, Suri tried to find anypony who would vouch for her, but nopony took her side. None of the ponies gave any amount of remorse for her. All Suri received were snickering grins from her now past coworkers. In a fit of rage, Suri barked at her former boss, “I will see that this store gets no business!”

“We shall see about that.”

It was the following morning that everything fell apart for Suri. It was about 11am in the city where she tried to find work. Unfortunately for her, word about her had already spread like wildfire. Nopony would even give her application a passing glance; Suri's face was already known throughout the city and was immediately rejected every time. And almost every facility she went into, snide insults were shot at her. The following day was even worse. As she was walking through the city, she noticed that her face was in the paper. And the description about her... well... was not the friendliest.

To escape the reality that was haunting Suri, she went to the kingdom of Canterlot, in hopes to find work there, perhaps even live there. She had been staying at a local hotel that has been eating away at her savings. But she'd rather have that happen than live in a city where she could not find work and have words stabbed into her back.

The mare let out a sigh. Her heart felt heavy and sad. But she knew exactly why she was in her current situation: her gossip.

Perhaps I can find a place to work and live here... Suri thought.

“Excuse me,” a feminine voice spoke from behind the mare. Suri opened her eyes and looked to see a unicorn mare with a white body and yellow mane. “Are you in need of any help?”

“I'm fine, thanks,” Suri replied, hoping that the store employee would go away. “Please leave me to my business...”

“Alright.” The unicorn saw that Suri wanted to be undisturbed. But just as she was about to turn around, the employee noticed Suri looking out the window again. “What has you so intrigued that has you looking outside?” she asked. “We don't like ponies who loiter in our store.”

The earth pony was getting irritated with the unicorn. Suri got in her face and spoke through her teeth, “Leave me alone!” But the unicorn did not budge. Irritated, Suri sighed and said, “If you MUST know, I am watching my... employee from a distance. She... has been slacking on her work and occasionally ditches her job. And... I have suspicions about the ponies she is with. They seem... unusual. That's what I am doing. Happy?”

As Suri said what she wanted to say, the yellow-maned pony in front of her gave her a sinister grin. “So you are the one following us,” she spoke. Horror writhed onto Suri's face. A cold shiver ran down her spine. She wanted to run and scream, but fear robbed her voice. Suddenly, a harsh glare came from the white colored mare. Her eyes glowed with a haunting green color. “I'm sorry, but you are going to have to come with me.”

As the white unicorn walked forward, Suri felt her body move on its own. She had no control of her body. Any ounce of free will the mare had was entirely gone. Suri couldn't even get herself to cry tears so that somepony would notice her.

Some pony... please... help me... she cried internally.

***

Coco let out a happy sigh. “That was a tasty treat.” The mare rubbed her belly as she swallowed the last of her cream-filled croissant.

“I can only imagine,” Chrysalis replied, slightly envious she could not taste consumable food as Coco can.

“I would have some as well,” Sea More said, “but I am not hungry at the moment.”

Sea More's statement made Coco think about what he had just said. She would ask Chrysalis if Sea More can actually eat food, but kept herself from doing so, considering that she and Sea More are trying to stay under cover.

Maybe Sea More was saying that aloud to convince others around them to think they are normal. Or perhaps he could eat solid foods. All Coco could do was speculate.

“Well,” Chrysalis spoke aloud, getting up from her seat, “I think it is time we get moving.”

Coco could tell that the queen wanted to get back to shopping. Even though she was masking it quite well from her friend, Chrysalis hated every second as she remained in Canterlot and wanted to get out as soon as possible. Being in enemy territory wasn't making her any more comfortable either. All she wanted to do was get the clothing she needed and get out.

Without their consent, Chrysalis made her way to the door and exited, leaving behind Coco and Sea More. They looked at each other and laughed, amused by the queen's hasty attitude. At their own pace, both of them got up and went to the door as well. Sea More moved ahead slightly faster and opened the door for the mare. Coco smiled at the kind gesture and exited the cafe.

Coco saw Chrysalis talking to Fang. She saw their expressions and saw that they were... very sinister; like they were up to no good.

The queen saw Coco in her peripheral and went up to her. “Ah, my friend,” she said with a smile, still keeping the same sinister expression from earlier.

“Umm... yes?” the pony answered in response, curious as to why Chrysalis was looking the way she was. Sea More followed from behind and saw her expression. He knew that expression all too well and knew she was up to no good.

“Sea More,” Chrysalis said without acknowledging her friend.

“Yes, Your Majesty?”

“Pull the wagon around the kingdom and look for any shops we have not gone into. However, do not stop until I say so.” Sea More nodded and went over to the carriage. He and Fang looked at each other, blinking at one another.

We have the pursuer in the carriage.

Sounds great! Now we have a hostage...

Don't worry Sea More. She won't be of any harm to us.

I hope so...

“So Coco,” Chrysalis smiled, “Fang was out and about and got a surprise for you.”

The grin that Coco was seeing was not making her feel comfortable. “What kind of surprise?”

Chrysalis turned around and gestured Coco to follow. “Come into the carriage.”

Something didn't sit right with Coco, and it wasn't the pastry she had just ate. But all the pony could do was follow and find out what this “surprise” really was.

As the two mares came up to the carriage, Fang used his magic and opened the door for them. Chrysalis stopped in her tracks and Coco did the same. The queen looked back, saying, “You go in first.”

Something was definitely up. But, Coco's curiosity was overpowering her and decided to go inside. As Coco stepped inside, she had to fit herself through the cluster of what clothing they had. Among the mix of red and blue colors, a different color showed itself. It was a nice purple color that was attempting to hide itself.

Trying to take a better look at the new color, Coco stepped forward and moved two dresses aside. A look of shock fell upon the mare's face. Sitting in front of her was her former boss, Suri Polomare and she did not look pleased.

Looking back, Coco saw Chrysalis grinning widely.

“W-what is the meaning of this?” Coco asked angrily.

Chance

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Chrysalis raised a brow. “What do you mean, 'what is the meaning of this?' It's your former boss.”

“I can see that!” Coco shouted in an uproar. The sudden outburst caused the changeling to push herself into the carriage, shoving her friend aside. Coco was backed into the wall of the wagon as Chrysalis towered over her.

“Keep quiet,” the Queen hissed. “I am trying to stay under cover.” Her eyes burned green with anger and fear. Chrysalis couldn't afford being discovered. If herself or her two guards were found out, then attending the gala would be an even more risky endeavor.

As Coco and Chrysalis continued to leer at each other, both mares heard the door to the wagon close, signaling to them both that Fang was also inside with them. As soon as the door closed, the carriage began to move.

To Coco's right was Suri, who looked just as confused as she was angry. Coco stared at her with one eye; the other was blocked by a cluster of blue dresses that hung from a bar from above.

“Why is she here?” Coco demanded.

“I was about to ask her that myself,” Fang said from behind Chrysalis. The queen moved herself to the other side of the carriage and sat down. She glared at Suri, making sure she didn't do anything stubborn, like screaming for help.

Fang looked at Suri with a harsh stare. Even though the poor earth pony was scared out of her wits, she looked back with an equally intimidating leer.

“So why were you stalking us?” Fang asked. Instantly, Suri began to shiver, afraid to answer. “Also, I apologize for taking you so abruptly, but I couldn't have you stalking about. You might stir up some suspicion if you told anypony we were changelings.” Again, Suri did not speak a word.

Not liking being left in the dark, Coco spoke up, “You took her hostage?!”

His friend's sudden outburst made Fang flinch. His mood suddenly changed from intimidating to worried. The changeling did not like seeing his friend upset, sad, or angry. This time, however, he was the cause for her upset attitude and needed to fix that problem. “She was acting suspiciously. You know we can't blow our cover, nor can we have somepony know our whereabouts.”

“And that gives you a reason to abduct her?” Coco let out a sigh, doing her best not to speak too loud. Doing that would anger the queen. Coco looked at her former employer. Suri looked at back with the same displeased stare. “Suri, what are you doing here in Canterlot?”

“Oh, you know,” the mare replied with a sarcastic tone, “minding my own business and getting KIDNAPPED AGAINST MY WILL!”

Chrysalis did not appreciate the outburst. “If I were you, I would refrain from yelling. Something might happen if you do that again.”

“Could you not threaten her?!” Coco shouted. “I think you would behave the same way she is if you were taken to someplace you don't want to be.”

“Please don't shout, Coco,” Chrysalis spoke through her teeth again. “I know we are all upset here, but again, we cannot blow our cover.” In an agreement, the earth pony complied with the queen with a nod. Coco was still not happy with the situation at hoof but had to deal with it.

Looking back at Suri, Coco asked again, “Suri, why are you here in Canterlot?”

With the flames of hatred in her heart, the former boss jabbed a hoof at Fang's direction. “Because of him.” This time, Fang let out a laugh. “Shut your mouth, freak!” Suri ordered, yet keeping her voice from being too loud.

“What did I do to you?” the changeling asked with a smile on his face. “Was it when I showed you what I truly was at the train station? Did I scare you?” Fang's grin grew wider as he mocked the mare. Suri wanted to hit the stupid changeling in the jaw, maybe knock his overgrown fang out of his mouth if she swung hard enough. However, she thought of the many negative outcomes that may come out of the act and discarded the thought.

A light hit struck Fang in the shoulder; it was Coco's hoof. Coco was not liking the cruelty Suri was receiving, even if she did deserve the harsh treatment. Suri also appreciated the act so she didn't have to hit Fang herself; though she would have preferred if Coco hit him harder. Or a different place than the shoulder.

After feeling the harmless blow, the changeling's grin subsided. Fang looked at Coco, displeased with being hit, but understood why he was struck. He was worried that Coco was beginning to hate him because of how he was treating Suri. However, Fang still remembers the harsh insults Suri shot at Coco when they were at the train station in Manehattan and was not yet ready to forgive her.

Looking back at her former boss, Coco asked, “So Suri, why are you here in Canterlot?”

“I already answered your question.” Suri's eyes looked at Fang. “He is the reason why I am here.”

Instead of laughing this time, the changeling simply asked, “How is it my fault?”

She didn't want to tell the truth, but since she blamed Fang already, Suri had no choice. The mare explained to Coco everything she had experienced the last five days, from telling her now former co-workers that there was a changeling in the city, to having to flee from Manehattan to escape the news about the gossiping pony.

As Suri explained, Coco couldn't help but feel sorry for her. Coco saw the sadness in her eyes and could tell that Suri was fighting back tears. Fang and Chrysalis, however, felt no remorse; they both knew of Suri and what she had done to Coco. In fact, Suri's suffering made them feel glad.

“When I saw you walking through Canterlot,” Suri said, concluding her story, “I was astonished to see that you were safe. I only followed around because... I was just curious to see how you were doing, not uncover your changeling friends.” After Suri finished, all was quiet in the carriage. Even though Coco believed her, Fang and Chrysalis didn't. They could tell that her intent was to reveal what they really were. They were also not going to let her go because of that fact.

“I'm sorry that that happened to you,” Coco said with a frown.

“Pfft!” Suri spat. “Yeah right.” Suri shifted herself upright and looked at Coco. “I know you are laughing at me on the inside. 'Serves you right Suri! I'm glad you are suffering! It's about time karma caught up with you!'”

“No... I don't think that at all,” Coco replied.

“Yes, you are!” Suri roared, her emotions inflating. Her outburst made Chrysalis stand up from her seat, causing the shouting mare to scoot into a corner, fearing something was about to happen to her.

Noticing her movement, Coco looked to Chrysalis. “Please stop scaring her,” she pleaded.

“If I don't shut her up,” Chrysalis said, still looking at Suri with anger in her eyes, “she is going to draw unwanted attention to us.” As she spoke, Chrysalis began to inch toward Suri. Coco could see the terror on the pony's face and knew for a certainty that she was going to scream.

“Chrysalis,” Coco pleaded, “as your friend, I ask for you to not harm her and let her go.”

In an instant, Chrysalis' face was up close to Coco's. Fang had to quickly move out of the way or his queen will disregard his existence and trample him down.

It was an all too familiar scenario Fang had seen. Chrysalis would want or do something, Coco would interject, and then the queen would get into her face. Every time Chrysalis did this to her, Coco's heart would begin to race with adrenaline. Even though they are friends, the pony knew that the queen could overpower her easily and had to tread lightly. “Do you think that would be a good idea?!” the Queen hissed. “To let her go free after we have taken her by force?”

“Don't you think Suri has gone through enough suffering?” Coco asked as her eyes looked at the mare who sat glued to the corner of the carriage. “Her name has been tarnished.”

“Do you think I care?” The changeling jabbed a hoof in Suri's direction. “That mare is the reason why YOUR name was tarnished.”

“And that gives you the right to harm her even more?”

Both mares were heated, wanting to overpower the other.

“You are my friend, Coco. And as your friend, I want to show your former employer what happens when she hurt the ones I care about.” Chrysalis' statement made Suri press even harder against the wagon walls.

“And as your friend, I believe you should give Suri some mercy and a second chance. Also, she has done nothing wrong to me now. Suri has done nothing to harm me now. You saying that you want to show her what happens to those who hurt your friends is not a valid excuse. What you want to do is keep her quiet, and I will not allow you to do that.”

At that point, Chrysalis was furious with how Coco was resisting her. Coco made a good point, but again, the queen could not be found out. Chrysalis let herself calm down before even thinking of a reply. She didn't like losing her composure and wanted to speak with Coco in a more adult-like tone.

“Then let me ask you this, Coco,” the queen spoke in a blunt, yet calm tone, “why should I give Suri a second chance despite everything she had done to you?”

Coco didn't skip a beat. “Because I gave you that second chance.”

Thief

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If Coco Pommel was a thief, she was a master at taking voices, specifically Chrysalis' voice. Numerous times has the mare been able to keep the queen from responding to a witty choice of words.

How could this pony be so sharp with words? Chrysalis asked herself as Coco looked at her intently. Letting out a sigh, the changeling replied, “You are right. You have given me a second chance.” In response to her reply, Coco nodded.

“Yes. You intentionally invaded Canterlot to cause harm before, and yet, I have forgiven you for that. Do you know why?” Chrysalis looked at her friend, thinking the question she asked was a rhetorical one. “Because,” Coco continued, “I saw that you are just like me. We all live in the same world trying to survive. You have an entire race to feed. You have children to raise. You have your reasons why you hate Celestia. But there was a reason why you did what you did, and I gave you that chance to tell me why. That is why we should give Suri a second chance; so that she can get out of this circumstance you placed her in and perhaps turn her life around.”

Embarrassed by being lectured by the earth pony, Chrysalis glanced at Fang who looked at her stupidly. There was nothing Fang could do to the situation as he spectated his queen, watching her being at a loss for words by Coco's choice of words. It was hard for Fang to accept that his queen was being easily silenced without her losing her temper. If anychangeling were to try and speak against her, the outcome would be usually painful for the lesser changeling.

Chrysalis on the other hoof felt convicted, as if she was standing in front of a judge, telling her all of her wrongdoings. Ever since Coco had become her friend, she has felt herself grow soft and she hated that. The queen did not want to feel these emotions, yet couldn't help herself. After all, Coco was right; both she and Chrysalis were two individuals trying to live on the same word, surviving through life's trials.

Perhaps the pony was the one who was going to resolve the problem with herself and Celestia. Chrysalis didn't know. The one thing she did know was that she was growing to respect and care about Coco more and more with every argument they have had. Coco Pommel was her friend who was not afraid to tell her that she is wrong. But the way Coco went about it was very professional. She only spoke up when Chrysalis was being the aggressor. And after Chrysalis has had the chance to speak loudly, the rest of what Coco had to say was spoken in a calm manner followed by a good point. Chrysalis could tell that Coco didn't argue for the sake of arguing; the mare argued because she had a very good reason for it. Chrysalis also noticed that Coco didn't like to argue or have a conflict and preferred a more professional approach. Because of the pony's caring attitude, the queen was finding herself growing to care about Coco more and more. And she didn't mind that.

Suri was astonished at what was happening. Her former employee was not only standing up for her, but Coco was standing up to the changeling who happens to be the queen. After all the pain and name tarnishing Suri had caused Coco, the humble mare was willing to stick her neck out for Suri. But why? Suri knew she didn't deserve the mercy, yet, she was getting it anyways.

Looking over to Suri, Coco said, “I am sorry that you had to go through with being kidnapped today Suri.”

Suri could not find herself to speak. She too had succumbed to Coco's mastery at stealing voices. All Suri could do was stare back with a confused look in her eyes.

Knowing that it was going to be impossible to get Suri to say anything on her own, Coco spoke, “I do hope things do go well for you in life and maybe change the way you are.” Looking at Chrysalis, the mare asked, “Can we give a second chance by letting her go? I honestly doubt anypony would believe her if she said changelings were in Canterlot anyways.”

Taking a deep breath, Chrysalis exhaled and responded, “I'm only doing this because you are my friend.” It was a tough call, but something told her that Suri was not going to speak about herself and how she and her guards are changelings. Looking at Fang, Chrysalis nodded at him, blinking at the changeling as well. Open the door for her.

Without hesitating, Fang did as his queen had ordered. Upon opening the carriage door, the wagon stopped moving.

“You are free to go, Suri,” Coco said with a smile, gesturing to the exit. “I do hope that things change for the better for you.”

But even with freedom within her grasp, Suri simply stared at the world outside. She saw noticed that they were stopped in front of a clothing store. Dresses covered their own manikin, each with a unique design. It was as if Coco had known they were about to pass a clothing store and drop off Suri off at such a convenient location.

“What are you waiting for?” Chrysalis asked impatiently. “You can leave.”

“Why?” Suri asked, looking back at Coco.

“Hmm?” Coco responded as she slightly cocked her head in confusion. "'Why' what?"

“Close the door,” Suri said, looking at Fang. Fang raised a brow, wondering what was going through the mare's mind, but did as he was told. Chrysalis noticed the carriage was not moving after the door was closed, so she pounded the floor with a hard stomp. In an instant, the wagon began to move once more.

Tired of standing, Chrysalis went over to the vacant side of the carriage and sat down. Fang continued to stand by the door, still spectating everything and keeping quiet.

Soon, all eyes were back on Suri. All the attention she was getting was making the mare feel so uncomfortable. But because of her action of choosing to stay in the cart is what caused everychangeling and pony to look at her, wondering why she stayed. Also, Suri's question...

Why?

Why what? Coco didn't have a clue as to what Suri meant. All the pony can do was assume.

“Why, Coco?” Suri said once more, now looking at at Coco.

Again, the tailor asked, "'Why' what?"

Streaks of blush grew across Suri's face and hid her face behind the clothes that dangled in front of her.

One Act of Wrath

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Coco couldn't help but chuckle at Suri's vagueness. “What do you mean Suri 'why'? I don't know what you are getting at.”

Fang was wondering why Suri was hiding as well. Using magic, he slid the clothes to the side and revealed the hiding pony. Suri gasped as she was exposed and pulled a dress' skirt to cover her flustered face.

Coco scowled at Fang, “Why did you do that?”

“I...” Fang stuttered, “...was just wondering why she was hiding, so I just moved the dresses aside.”

“Can't you tell she is uncomfortable already?”

As if she hasn't been uncomfortable... “Sorry, I was not trying to be rude this time.”

The mare gave a smirk, trying to make light of the situation. “Sure,” she said. Fang rolled his eyes at his friend's antics. It was nice to see that she was being playful with him, indicating that she was not angry at him anymore; or at least, that's what he is hoping.

As the two looked back at Suri, they noticed that the clothes were pulled back in front of her face. It didn't take a genius to know that something was up with her.

“Is there something you need to say, Suri?” Chrysalis asked. “I am curious as to why you stayed instead of leaving.” Both Fang and Coco looked back at the queen, remembering her presence. Chrysalis had a curious look on her face as she looked at Suri's direction.

“Yeah,” Coco responded. “Why did you stay instead of going on your way? We allowed you a chance to go. So why did you stay?”

It took Suri a few moments to respond. “Because...” Her words were caught in her throat. She was too flustered to answer. After everything I have done to her... she stands up to me... “Why, Coco...” Suri stuttered.

“Why what?” Coco asked, chuckling. “What did I do?”

“Why...” Suri was blushing, though she didn't notice it. She was embarrassed to say what she needed to say but had to ask out of curiosity anyway. Finally, she blurted out, “Why are you being so nice to me?”

Coco, Fang, and Chrysalis looked at one another, wondering how to take Suri's statement.

“Interesting...” Chrysalis said under her breath. No pony responded after hearing Chrysalis' input for quite some time. The cart bounced a bit as it hit a rock in the road, startling everypony and changeling.

Coco's heart raced from the sudden rocking, but quickly regained a grip on herself and continued to focus on the situation at hoof. “You want to know why I am being nice to you?”

“Y-yeah,” Suri replied, still shaken by the sudden rocking of the carriage.

Even though Suri could not see Coco's face, Coco smiled in Suri's direction. “Because everypony deserves a second chance.”

“I don't believe that,” Suri replied, her voice choking. “Not everypony deserves a second chance...”

Coco took a gander at Chrysalis as the queen raised a brow as to why her friend looked at her. “You would be surprised how wrong you are on that, Suri,” Coco replied.

“So are you with your logic, Coco...”

“What do you mean?”

As Suri inhaled, Coco heard her voice quiver. “I... d-don't deserve a second chance. Not after I have done...”

“But don't you think you can start anew with a second chance? Maybe here in Canterlot?”

“Will you stop saying I deserve a second chance?!” Angered, Suri shoved the dresses out of the way, revealing her true expression. Coco saw that she was quite peeved. But she saw something else that made her heart jump in shock: tears. Tears from a frustrated, yet guilty mare. Suri's salty eye droplets patted on the wooden floor of the carriage as she stared at the three in front of her. “Just tell me that you are being nice to me because you feel sorry for me or whatever! I don't deserve your second chance pity party!”

Chrysalis looked livid as Suri yelled in the carriage. Suri noticed her error and silenced herself before shouting any further.

Sighing, Suri continued her venting in a much quieter tone. “I don't feel like I deserve a second chance. I don't deserve your kindness after how I ruined your name. And yet here you are, being kind to me in front of what I can assume is the queen of changelings. Am I right?” Suri looked at Chrysalis, hoping she would reply to her statement. The queen nodded. Glad that Chrysalis replied to her statement, Suri continued. “You probably saved my life as well because of your kindness. But why toward me? I tarnished your name. Don't you remember? When you threw that coffee at me, I hated the way you showed me off and I wanted to teach you a think about how easily bad a name can be ruined. And now, five days ago, I...” Suri slowed her speech down. “...I now know how it feels when your own name is tarnished. So.. after all that I have done to you, you still want to show me compassion? Don't you remember how I treated you as an employee? How I scolded you? How I lost it one day and almost hit you?”

Fang's ears perked up upon hearing Suri's statement and leered at her. The mare noticed the aggressive stare and pointed a hoof at him. “Why don't you hate me like him?”

Coco looked at Fang and saw his angered expression before he could hide it away. Fang disliked how Suri drew Coco's attention to him but understood that the mare was trying to make a point.

“So Coco,” Suri begged as her tears continued to roll down her face, “why don't you hate me and leer at me like your friend here?”

“Because I am not like him or you,” Coco replied calmly. “I am me. I am one who dislikes conflict, but stands up for myself when needed.” Suri was quiet as she took in what Coco had said. Coco continued, “If there was one thing you were ever right about was showing me is how easy it is to tarnish somepony's name. But there is something else I have learned on my own from all this.”

“And what might that be...?” Suri replied weakly, huffing in her lungs and sniffing in any mucus that may try to drip out of her nostrils.

“Let me explain my story to you on the events of what happened after I 'assaulted' you.” Suri would rather have Coco to cut to the chase and hear what 'other lesson' she learned as well. However, Suri figured some backstory would help create a better picture as to what Coco had “learned.”

“Fine.”

Coco cracked a small smile before it went away. The pony cleared her throat before speaking. “After I left working with you, I went to work on a line up with Rarity. When that finished, I decided to look for work in the city. I guess you can easily assume I couldn't find a job designing dresses at all.” Suri nodded, showing that she was listening. “I never thought that my act toward you would hurt my reputation more than I would have even considered. In fact, I didn't think throwing that cup at you was going to cause so much backlash... Every night, for weeks, I cried myself to sleep, regretting my choice. I hated myself. I continuously wished that I could take back that coffee cup and throw it at something that can't retaliate, like the trash. But instead, I decided to take my anger out on you... and... well... It was a stupid thing to do...” Coco was beginning to feel upset as she thought of her unfortunate past. However, the mare kept her sad emotions aside and keep a serious attitude.

“As a result of my single act of rage, I had to resort to a simple job at a coffee shop.” Coco then smiled and said, “If there was one thing you taught me how to do extremely well was a mean espresso.” Suri let out a small chuckle. She remembered how she taught Coco how to make a great cup of coffee. Eventually, Coco learned how to make various amounts of coffee drinks. Suri remembered that that reason was one of the reasons why she kept Coco around.

“Even though I had a job that helped me make an income, I was still struggling to even save a single bit. I wanted to move from the city and start fresh someplace else, but I couldn't because of expenses...”

Coco let out a sigh before resuming. “So, before I tell you what I have learned through all of this, I want to ask you a question, Suri.”

“Sure,” Suri sniffed again, trying to keep another river from flowing.

“Do you think, after all I did to you, that I deserved what I went through?”

All eyes were once again back onto Suri. She hated all the attention that was brought to her. Regardless of her distaste for her predicament, the mare had to deal with it. Suri looked down at the floor before she spoke softly, “No...”

“And why do you say 'no?'”

“Because... I...” Once more, the tears began to fall once more and the guilt infected Suri's heart. “Because I was the one who was cruel and mean to you. I deserve what came to me, you didn't. All you did was throw one cup of coffee, while I spread rumors about everypony. Yet, the one time I was telling the truth, my old boss remembered my ridiculous stories about my fellow co-workers and didn't want my rumor running mouth around anymore. So why, Coco... Why must you and I suffer the same punishment even though what I have done was much worse than what you did? Tell me what you have learned Coco Pommel.”

The light-blue maned pony looked at Suri with a slight bit of sadness in her eyes. “Because all it takes is one act of wrongdoing to ruin your life. That is what I have learned.”

“But you only did one thing and I did so much...” Suri sobbed. “Why must you suffer my fate?”

Coco shrugged, “It's just the way the world works. Think about it this way: If you are a jerk to somepony, expect that pony to dislike you. Also, if you are mean to them, expect that individual's acquaintances and friends to dislike you as well. On top of that, the victim, the friends, or both may tell others about your actions. Make sense?”

“Yes, but what are you getting at with this Coco?”

“Because there is a second part of what I am trying to say.”

“Alright...”

“Now, let's say, in this scenario, you are the victim of the jerk.” Immediately, Suri knew Coco was making an example out of their own experiences. “Now the victim has told others about the jerk's actions and are aware of it. But one day, the jerk did something that pushed the victim to the limit and did something beyond what the jerk has done. And whatever that act may be, it still surpassed everything that the jerk has done. So now, everypony feels sorry for the jerk and is upset with the victim. Now does that make sense?”

It made perfect sense to Suri Polomare. The shame and guilt gripped tightly around the mare's heart like a rope snagging around her throat, preventing herself from running away or breath properly. Suri looked down in shame but still glanced upwards, looking at Coco.

“Now let's go back to the jerk-”

“I get it C-Coco...” A hard sniff came from Suri as tears once more rolled down her face. “Because of the jerk's past actions, not everypony has forgotten about them. And eventually, the jerk continued there wrongdoing. And soon, their wrongdoing caught up with them and finally got what they deserve...”

Coco nodded, “That's right.” Coco had got her point across to Suri and was glad that it did.

“I now understand,” Suri sobbed. “It all makes sense. And I am very sorry...” The mare's heart can no longer take it. Suri folded into a fetal position and looked away from her former co-worker, sobbing. Suri was no longer angry at Fang for “ruining” her reputation. She was no longer upset at Coco for throwing that cup of coffee at her stupid face. Suri Polomare was angry at herself. She despised and condemned her past actions and wish she could take it back. But no matter how badly she wanted to travel back in time and fix the error of her ways, Suri was stuck with the consequences of the present.

“I'm sorry... I'm so sorry...” Suri said over and over. “I'm sorry... I'm sorry... I'm sorry...”

But as she was sobbing, something warm touched the pony's shoulder. Suri didn't look back to see who it was; she knew it was Coco.

“I forgive you, Suri,” Coco said calmly. “I forgive you for everything. And I am sorry for throwing the cup of coffee in your face...”

The sobbing mare sat upright and faced Coco and smiled. “I think I should be the one apologizing.”

“Weren't you the one crying right now saying 'I'm sorry?' I believe you have said enough. Besides, at least we can forgive one another,” Coco replied. She then reached out a hoof to Suri and asked, “So, would you like a second chance and be my friend?”

If Suri could cry tears of joy, she would; however, she had already spent all of her tears when she wept mournfully and in sorrow. Instead of shaking the offered hoof, Suri moved in and hugged her new friend. Coco wrapped her arms around the earth pony in a close embrace.

“Thank you, Coco Pommel,” Suri spoke softly.

“Your welcome, Suri Polomare,” Coco responded.

“I'm... shocked that you are willing to give me a second chance,” Suri spoke.

Coco lifted her head and looked back at Fang and Chrysalis. “You would be surprised who else I would give a second chance to.” Removing herself, Coco got up and sat next to Suri. Immediately, the two began to talk among themselves, ignoring the other changelings who were among them.

As they remained on the other side of the carriage, excluded from the ponies' conversation, Fang and Chrysalis looked at each other and began to communicate by blinking at each other.

She really does have a way with words, doesn't she my queen? Fang asked.

Yes, she does, Chrysalis replied. She is more merciful than I will ever be.

Both changelings spectated Suri and Coco as they continued to talk, or rather, Coco was telling her friend about the events that have happened at the hive.

Looking down at Fang, Chrysalis continued to blink again. I am glad that my friend is happy with Suri, but I think we-

“Haha, talk about window pain!” Suri laughed aloud.

Both changelings looked at Suri because of her loud outburst. Her smile evaporated, afraid she was being too loud again.

“Don't mind us,” Chrysalis replied as she looked at the ponies. “We were only taking a passing glance.”

“Alright... hehe...” After the awkward interruption, Suri continued, “But seriously, you were thrown off a balcony?”

“Yup,” Coco said with a nod. “Fang actually saved me from the fall.”

“Is that soooo?” Suri replied as she raised a brow, looking at the changeling in the eyes. Fang glanced to the side, trying to avoid eye contact. Though, through his peripheral, he could still see the pony staring at him.

“Mmhmm,” Coco replied. “He is also very sweet to me.” The words “sweet” made Fang's ears perk up. Taking a lightning fast glance, Fang looked to his friend. He noticed she was blushing slightly. “Trust me, Suri, it's nice to have a shoulder to cry on.”

A harsh sigh came from Chrysalis. Fang could tell she was growing impatient and knew she wanted to get back to her errand. Looking at the two mare's she said, “Well, I do appreciate the fact that my friend has now befriended her old boss, but I and the others need to get back to shopping. Don't you think so, Coco?” Chrysalis' two emerald eyes fell upon her friend, awaiting a response.

“Oh, right. I almost forgot.” Coco rubbed the back of her head, embarrassed that she forgot about the important task of obtaining outfits for Chrysalis.

Staring at Suri, the queen asked, “If you would be so kind to leave me and my friend to get back to our business.”

“O-of course,” Suri replied. Removing herself from her seat, the pony went over to the door and glanced at Chrysalis. “So, do I just open it and he will stop?”

Without saying a word, the changeling used her magic to open the door. In an instant the wagon came to a complete stop. The light from the outside world seemed a lot brighter than usual.

Turning to face Coco, Suri smiled at her new friend and said, “Well, I will be on my way.”

“Wait,” Coco said aloud.

“Hmm?” The queen hummed as she and Suri turned their heads sideways in confusion.

“Umm, would it be alright if Suri would join us? She might know some stores that might have what we are looking for.”

The largely disguised changeling looked at her friend, then Suri. “Hmm... she might...”

“I would also like to connect with Suri a little as well if that is fine.”

A small amount of jealousy bit into Chrysalis' heart. She didn't like the idea that Coco was going to “connect” with her former boss because she felt her friend was wanting to spend more time with her new friend than herself. Then Chrysalis had an idea.

“As long as I am involved in your conversations, she may come with us. I wish to not be a third horseshoe. Besides, I like to be talked to as well.”

Coco let out a slight giggle. “Of course, Your Majesty.”

“Good,” Chrysalis smiled. Getting up from her seat, the changeling went over to Suri and kindly asked her to step aside. The mare easily compiled and made way for the queen. With ease, Chrysalis stepped outside. Looking to the sky, she saw the position of the sun and sighed in relief. It was still early afternoon.

Glad that not much time was wasted, she walked over to Sea More with a smile on her face.

“Yes, Your Majesty?” he asked with a smile as she approached. “You look very cheerful.”

“Don't look at me with your casual stare and try to make fun of my expression. Have you seen any stores that we have not visited?”

“Several,” Sea More responded. “However, I am not sure if they all have what we are looking for. I would have walked in myself to save us some time, but your orders were your orders, and I wish to not disobey them.”

“Good to know you are still a good little colt and does what he is told.” Clearing her throat, she spoke again,“So, we have some good fortune. We have another guest who will be shopping with us.”

Sea More looked to his queen in confusion and shock.“And who might that be?”

“Our hostage,” she responded with a grin.

Sea More couldn't help but be confused.

A Chance Alone

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It was early afternoon. The air was warm and the sky was clear of clouds. Chrysalis walked in between Coco and Suri as they walked through the streets of Canterlot. Fang and Sea More were behind the three mares. Fang was pulling the wagon as Sea More was beside him, finally free from the restraints of the carriage.

The queen had a wave of relief sweep over her, glad that Suri Polomare had come along and helped find four red outfits for her gatherers. Not only did that help remove some stress off of the leader, but she and the two ponies talked about past amusing stories, one of them being a time when Suri accidentally sowed a part of her mane to a dress. Chrysalis was talking about how her daughter, explaining how she raised a caterpillar and watched it grow into a monarch.

“So,” Chrysalis said, “When it came time for the monarch to leave for migration, the insect brought back a pink rose to Beauty Fly before it left. After it was gone, and many hours of her crying, she asked if we can create a garden with many different colored roses. Now, every year since then, when the monarchs are migrating, a large amount of them come to our garden.”

“Aww, what a cute story,” Coco smiled with glee. “I would like to see your garden when we get back to-” The pony paused, almost saying “castle.” She remembered that she needed to watch what she said in the open public so Chrysalis and her two guards were not exposed. “To umm...” Coco continued cautiously, “...y-your place.”

“You are more than welcome to do so,” Chrysalis nodded.

Feeling she had an appropriate time to speak up, Suri spoke, “So, how come your daughter isn't here with us? I would assume you being her mother would want her around all the time.”

Coco tried to stop Suri from speaking by flailing her arms, hoping to distract the earth pony. But it was too late...

Trying to keep her composure, Chrysalis said calmly, “She is at home, sleeping. She is always tired and... is always... sleeping.” The queen began swearing at herself internally for sounding stupid in front of her friend.

Oblivious to the situation at hand, Suri spoke again, “Why don't you just-” Looking to the other side of Chrysalis, Coco rapidly shook her head and quickly swiped her hoof across her neck several times. Looking up at Chrysalis, Suri saw the queen wore a sad expression and noticed she was staring straight. “Did-” Suri accidentally said as words of curiosity slipped out of her mouth, regretting her question.

“She was a good daughter,” Chrysalis said suddenly. “That's all I will say.”

Both ponies looked at the queen and saw that she was smiling. They didn't know why she was smiling, but can only assume, not wanting to ask the changeling why she was grinning.

Looking back, Coco saw the two guards. It appeared to her that they, too, were listening. Wanting to know if they did hear the last few comments, she said to Chrysalis, “I'm going to go talk to Fang and Sea More.”

Looking down at her friend, Chrysalis replied, “Do what you want.” Turning a gaze toward Suri, the changeling said, “I would like to be alone with your friend for a moment.”

The way Chrysalis looked down at Suri slightly worried Coco. Regardless of how the queen made her feel, she slowed down her pace and had the two stallions come to her. As soon as they caught up to Coco, she returned to her normal speed. Coco walked next to Fang as he came to her.

“So, how are you two doing?” the pony asked.

“Well,” Fang responded as he glanced at Coco. He then looked forward at his queen and frowned. “I just do not like seeing Queen Chrysalis in pain...” Without saying a word, Sea More nodded, wearing a neutral expression.

“I feel the same way, Fang.” Coco was slightly glad that Fang heard the conversation so she didn't have to ask him if he did. Looking forward, Coco saw Chrysalis talking to Suri. She couldn't hear the changeling talking over the sound of the wheels that rolled on the stone street, occasionally running over a stick and snapping it under its massive weight.

Chrysalis then looked back and stared at Coco for a moment and then down back at Suri. I wonder what they are talking about, the pony wondered.

“Coco,” Chrysalis spoke, “Can you come here?”

Both Sea More and Fang looked at the mare, waiting for her to move. Without a word, Coco heeded the Queen's instruction and walked toward her. When she caught up to the disguised changeling, Chrysalis asked, “Would you like to have your time alone with Inferno Fang now?”

Shock ran across Fang's face as he heard the words. He glanced over to Sea More who bounced his eyebrows. Fang slightly bared his sharp teeth, his sharp tooth burning angrily.

“Oh, umm...” Coco had to process her thoughts before saying anything else. “W-what about the remaining outfits?”

“I want to talk to Suri Polomare about a commission I wish to propose to her,” Chrysalis replied as she shot a glance at Suri before looking back to her friend.

“O-oh...” the pony frowned.

The queen noticed her statement upset Coco. “Do you not like the idea that I am giving her work?” Chrysalis asked, raising one brow.

“Well, I mean, I am glad you are giving Suri work,” she responded, quickly applying a fake smile. Coco turned her head to show Suri that she was happy for her.

“But,” Chrysalis said, causing Coco to look back at her. “What has you bothered?”

“Nothing,” the pony responded, quickly looking forward. “I am very happy that you want to give her a chance to work.”

Chrysalis gave Coco a slight bump in her ribs with her hoof to get her friend to look back at her. “You can't fool me. I know what I said upset you. Be honest with me.”

At that moment, the queen gave a genuine smile to the earth pony. Knowing that she couldn't hide what she was truly feeling, Coco said, “I just, you know... I want to keep making dresses.” The pony's ears retreated after she said what was really on her mind.

After hearing Coco's reason for being upset, Chrysalis stopped and looked down at her friend. At once, everypony and changeling stopped. “Have you ever heard of giving somepony a second chance?”Quickly, the pony's ears perked up and turned toward Chrysalis. “Also,” the changeling continued, “did you forget your pay?”

"Whatever we do not use out of this sack will be the payment for your efforts."

Remembering what Chrysalis had said in the early morning, Coco ran over to the carriage and opened the door. Coco scrambled to get inside as soon as her eyes fixed onto the sack filled with treasure. It was bulging from the number of items that rested inside of it. The mare opened it up and saw that there was still a plentiful amount of gold, gems, and bits inside of it. In fact, it looked like they used hardly any of it. Coco's heart began to race, thinking about how she would use all of the treasure that was given to her.

“So,” said a voice from behind Coco. She turned around and saw Chrysalis smiling at her. “Do you think it would be harmful if I gave Suri a second chance by giving her some work?”

Slowly, the pony shook her head.

“Also, with everything inside that sack, I think you can open up your own shop by only using a small portion of it. In other words, if you want to keep making dresses, you should open up your own store.”

Without hesitation, Coco quickly went over to her friend and embraced Chrysalis. “Thank you,” the pony said with a happy smile on her face.

“I should thank you,” the changeling replied, glancing around, wondering if anypony was watching. But it dawned on the queen that she didn't care if anything saw her. All she cared about was the happiness of her friend. “Sometimes,” Chrysalis continued, “there are some things that are worth more than a simple goblet made of gold and gems. Your generosity and friendship are one of those 'things.'” Then, the queen reached around her friend and held her close. Love radiated off of the pony as she continued to hold onto Chrysalis. Chrysalis inhaled the food through her nose by taking a slow breath of air. After getting all the love she needed, the changeling let out a calm sigh, smiling even more.

“Now, why don't you and Fang have your time alone, hmm?”

Now parting away by letting go of the queen, Coco let go and looked up at her friend. “Okay.”

Walking over to Fang, Coco Pommel smiled at him. “Shall we be going?” she said, holding out her hoof to him.

“O-of course,” Fang stuttered as he took her hoof. The mare closed her eyes and gave the changeling a sweet smile as a small tint of blush came off of Coco's cheeks. Fang took a glance at Chrysalis who was looking at the back of Coco's head. But the moment the queen's gaze met his, her smile quickly evaporated and turned into a mean stare. Chrysalis then blinked at him, Remember, do not become too attached, or else there will be more pain...

There was nothing to reply to. Fang understood. Fang knew what would happen if he did. But he also didn't care about the future. After all, the future was not the now; the present was. And maybe... Coco would be the answer to all their problems.

“Shall we,” Fang said as he gestured an arm for the lady.

Coco opened her eyes and noticed the changeling's friendly act. She nodded to comply and began to walk. And soon the two walked away together, hoof in hoof.

“Meet up at the cafe we just ate at in one hour,” Chrysalis called out to the couple.

“Will do!” Coco called back without turning around.

Looking at Suri, Chrysalis walked over to her and said, “Shall we attend to business?”

Two Alone

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It was not easy for Suri as she sat alone with the queen of changelings. The pony slowly chewed on a custard-filled pastry as Chrysalis watched her intently. Sea More was outside by the carriage once more, attending it in case somepony wanted to take a look inside.

As for Chrysalis, she was trying to find words to say to the pony so that they can get business handled. “It's funny,” the queen said, attempting to make small talk among the two of them.

“W-what is?” Suri answered as she tensed up when she heard Chrysalis’ voice.

Chrysalis smiled a bit, knowing that Suri was uncomfortable around her. “It's funny how Coco Pommel, a simple earth pony who makes dresses, can be so… convincing with words.”

The pony looked at her snack as sweet custard oozed out of it. “She is.” Suri licked the sugary cream and swallowed it before continuing her thought. “I wonder why.”

“It's an easy answer: the ability to give others a second chance.” Chrysalis glanced left and right before continuing, making sure nopony were eavesdropping on her conversation. “You know who I am. Considering that fact, it is not easy to soften my heart.” The changeling scratched her chin. “Why do you think Coco is like that?”

It took Suri a moment to reply; she had a mouth full of pastry and had to swallow before commenting. “Coco was very soft spoken even when I knew her before she… became unemployed.”

“That reminds me,” Chrysalis spoke coldly as she stared at Suri, “why were you so cruel to Coco?” Even though Chrysalis wore a beautiful facade, Suri knew a horrible creature was behind that white fur and has to watch what she says to not anger the queen.

“I-”

“Never mind. Forget my question.”

Suri sighed internally and became relieved that Chrysalis dropped the question.

“I will say one thing,” Chrysalis spoke in an intimidating tone, “I do not like you. Coco may have forgiven you, but that does not mean I have to.”

Suri had to do her best to keep a strong composure; however, Chrysalis knew she was frightening the harmless earth pony. “Why do you not like me?”

“Because you were the one who brought harm to my friend.”

Suri’s brows twitched, creasing for a quick moment. Get over it.

“If you are going to be angry at me because of my opinion toward you, you can forget your commission and give it to a pony who wants to work.”

The earth pony froze, frightened that Chrysalis was able to read her so quickly. “S-sorry.”

Clearing her throat, the tall mare smiled, “But like Coco said, everypony deserves a second chance. So despite my attitude toward you, I believe giving you a second chance will help you a lot. After all, I do pay well.” Suri didn’t dare attempt to think anything negatively toward Chrysalis. All she did was nod. “So, let’s focus on business instead of petty emotions,” the changeling spoke, placing her hooves on the table.

“Yes,” Suri complied, placing her pastry down, ready to work.

“I need you to make five outfits. Two red stallion uniforms and two blue dresses.”

“Is there a particular theme?”

Chrysalis had to think for a moment. “Classy. Forgive me for being vague. I’m not trying to make this difficult for you.”

“No no no,” Suri reassured. “Don’t worry about that. I think I can do that.” But Suri then remembered something. “You said five outfits, right?”

“I did.” Chrysalis smiled as she looked to the side and then back to the earth pony. “I want you to make a dress for Coco. The three things I want on it are light-cream and light blue colors with pearls.”

Suri smiled as well, “That's very nice of you.”

The queen’s ego inflated slightly, “I may be very beautiful in every way no doubt. But…” Chrysalis paused. “I think Coco deserves to be just as pretty as me for one day.”

If Suri could, she would think of something sarcastic. But even her thoughts could not be hidden from the changeling; so instead, she continued to think positively.

“I'll do it,” the pony spoke.

“Good. And I am certain you are not going to disappoint.” Chrysalis raised a brow, awaiting a reply.

“I will make sure Coco shines like a night sky,” Suri spoke, buttering up her words.

“Thank you. You have three days to finish your commission.” Chrysalis leaned forward a bit. “Do you have all the tools necessary to make the dresses and outfits?”

“Umm,” Suri thought, “I do have the equipment and a good amount of fabric with me. You know, just in case somepony-”

“So that's a yes,” Chrysalis spoke a bit loudly, cutting off Suri.

“Yes.” The pony hesitated in trying to speak on her own. “A-as for supplies, I may need to purchase-”

“I'll supply you with some money so you can buy what you need.”

She can sure be quick with responding.

Suri picked up her pastry and put the remaining portion of it in her mouth. She closed her eyes enjoying the sugar and breading from her snack. Swallowing the last of the custard treat, Suri opened her eyes again. She noticed Chrysalis was frowning.

“Is something wrong? ” Suri asked instinctively.

The large changeling let out a sigh without making eye contact. “I think your reputation will be restored after the events at the gala.”

Confusion crashed down on Suri. “What do you mean?”

Chrysalis didn’t reply. She just continued to frown.

***

It was quiet between the pony and changeling as they made their way through the park. A family of three sat on a blanket enjoying their afternoon lunch, laughing aloud every once in a while. Coco kept a happy smile as she turned her view here and there while she walked on the path. Fang walked beside the mare, but just off of the path. His hooves dragged through the grass, the hairs brushing on his lower legs; a feeling he grew to like since he was a colt.

Every so often, Fang would find himself taking a quick glance at Coco, making sure she was still there. He knew she was not in any danger, considering both of them were out in open daylight in a park. However, being a personal guard of the queen, it is hard to shake off old habits when walking with one who is very important.

But Fang kept looking at the lovely pony for another reason. A reason that may cause the queen much distaste toward him.

Quickly, Coco turned her head to her friend. “You keep looking at me Fang,” she smiled with a giggle.

“Oh- well…” Fang stuttered, “I… you see…”

Coco giggled once more and looked forward. In his peripheral, he noticed the pony glanced at him nervously, slightly. Blush, barely visible, streaked on her cheeks. “Why do you keep looking at me?” Coco asked.

With nowhere to go, Fang had no choice but to answer the question. “It’s… hard to believe that a pony such as yourself would befriend me and…” The stallion leaned in to whisper to Coco, “...the other changelings.”

“We are all the same,” Coco answered. “We are all just trying to make it through each day.” Looking to Fang, the mare smiled. “I am glad to have you as my closest friend.”

Fang took that as a high honor. “I am glad to know that.”

“Well, you are the only stallion who lets me vent to, even letting me cry on your shoulde-”

“Haha, you’re funny daddy!” Laughter from the family of three broke Coco’s concentration and caused her to look away from Fang for a moment.

In that time, she thought of something to ask him. “Hey, Fang?”

“Yes?”

“Can we take a seat somewhere? I want to ask you a few things.”

The changeling smirked, “Does the questionmare need to bombard me with questions?”

“Hey,” Coco shoved Fang a bit, “I ask the questions. You answer.”

Both laughed for a bit before Fang agreed to let the two of them sit down. A tiny maple tree off the path caught the changeling's attention. "How about there?" he asked as he gestured to it.

"Sure."

With their destination now set, Fang and Coco went toward the small tree. When Fang sat down with Coco, he made sure to sit close but not too close.

Looking at the mare, it dawned onto Fang that his friend was upset as her face sagged with worry. “What seems to have you troubled?” the changeling asked.

Coco was quiet for a moment before answering. “I'm worried that the…” She glanced around before whispering into Fang’s ear, “love that Chrysalis gets will be used to do harm. Do you think she will use the love for harm?”

Nervously, the changeling scooted closer to the mare so he can speak low to her and that nopony could hear their secretive conversation. “I… don't know…” Fang answered quietly.

“I know you know Fang,” Coco replied. “You are Chrysalis’ personal guard.”

Even though he didn't want to answer truthfully, he spoke low, “The queen will do anything to take away everything Celestia cares for and loves.”

A pair of angry eyes looked at Fang. He couldn't deny that what he said would bother Coco. Fang looked down, worried that his friend may think differently of Chrysalis and the other changelings.

“Well,” Coco spoke deeply, “I do personally know Princess Twilight Sparkle by extension from another business partner. I could…” Her words were caught in her throat.

“...tell Twilight Sparkle about Chrysalis’ true intentions?” Fang finished the mare’s question.

“N-no… I mean…” Coco’s ears folded back, upset and regretting what she had just asked. “Just forget what I said… You are right. I do ask too many questions…”

Just as Fang did, Coco Pommel hung her head, looking down at the grass. A weed that held a flower swayed a little as the breeze gently moved it. Fang frowned and scooted closer to the pony. The moment his flank lightly bumped into hers, Coco’s ears shot up in alert.

“S-sorry,” Fang apologized as he moved back to his original position.

Instead of replying with words, Coco sat upright and scooted up against Fang, then leaning onto the stallion’s shoulder.

Fang took in a deep breath as the pony moved toward him. He didn't mind her doing what she did; however, every time the mare advanced toward him, Fang was always caught off guard. To comply with Coco’s act, the changeling in return gently leaned his head onto the mare. Neither spoke for a while as they sat in silence. Despite that they were enjoying each other's comfort and company, there was uneven tension in the air.

“Do you think changelings and ponies will ever come to an agreement?” Coco asked quietly.

A nice cool breeze brushed past the two of them.

“Maybe,” Fang answered.

Coco adjusted herself to look up at the crimson-colored stallion. “What makes you say that?”

The changeling smiled, “Well, I do have a mare who happens to be a pony right up against me.”

“True,” Coco replied back with a sweet grin.

“Because of ponies like you,” Fang continued, “I do think changelings and ponies have a chance at happiness.”

“That's true.” Then an idea came to Coco. “And since I have a connection to Twilight Sparkle, I might be able to get her to talk to Chrysalis and form a treaty. Or something like that.” The idea made Coco’s heart flutter with excitement.

“It's a good idea,” Fang responded with uncertainty in his voice. “But…”

“But what? You don't like the idea?”

“O-of course I like the idea,” the changeling stuttered. “It's just-”

“Chrysalis…” Coco spoke softly.

Fang bobbed his head slightly to answer the mare.

A harsh rush of hot air came out of Coco’s nostrils as she sighed in frustration. “Must she have her mind set on revenge?” she spoke into Fang, trying to keep her voice down. “Is there any way to change her mind?”

“There is one way,” the changeling spoke.

“Really? What could possibly be the answer to changing her mind?” Coco was pursing her lips, thinking about the queen’s stubborn grudge bent on revenge. Yes, Princess Celestia may have been part of the reason why Beauty Fly had died. But there may be a reason why the alicorn did what she had to do.

“The answer?” Fang looked down at Coco and grinned, exposing that oversized tooth of his. “I'm looking right at her.”

Coco’s upset attitude about the queen quickly left her and was replaced with disbelief. “M-me!? But why me? Why would I be the answer? How could-”

“If you keep that up, you are going to reach your question asking limit,” Fang joked.

Coco pushed into Fang. “Oh hush!”

“Then why are you smiling?”

“Hey,” the pony smirked, “I ask the questions.”

“Fine.” The disguised changeling turned his head away from Coco, his mane shining as the light reflected off it.

“Did I ever tell you your mane is very nice?” the mare asked as she admired the red stain glass hair.

“Stay on track, Coco,” Fang answered as he slightly leaned into her.

Pushing back into him, the pony looked at him again. “So, why do you think I am the answer?”

Fang adjusted himself before answering. “You have done something no changeling has ever been able to do: melt Chrysalis heart. Well, except for Left Wing…” The stallion had to take in a deep breath; otherwise, he may get angry.

“Anyways, you have touched Chrysalis’ heart. You have made my queen happy. You have given all changelings a chance.” Fang looked at the pony sincerely. “Coco Pommel, you may be the only one who can show others that my kind are not the heartless creatures some may think we are. You put it best: we all need to live so we can make it to the next day.”

Flattered, Coco wore a silly grin. “Wow. You really think I can?”

Fang had to think up a response. “Well, you like me as a friend, right?”

“Of course.”

“Then I am sure you would want me around more,” Fang commented as he smiled, raising a brow.

Coco thought about the words Fang had just said. Looking up at him, she saw the disguised changeling in his unicorn form and admiring his handsome face. Fang looked at her, awaiting an answer.

Somehow, Coco couldn't keep eye contact with him and looked away, smiling and blushing.

“Is something wrong?” Fang asked when the mare turned her view elsewhere.

Turning back to face Fang, Coco looked up at him with blush still on her face. With a sweet smile, the mare said, “You just want me around just so I can feed you.”

Throwing caution to the wind, Fang smiled back as his cheeks flushed. “Maybe.”

Coco giggled as she leaned on her friend and closed her eyes. Fang looked down at Coco and watched love drift off of the mare, taking deep breaths so he can fill his stomach.

With nothing else to say, both changeling and pony sat quietly. Alone. And happy.

Blanket of Tulips

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Coco walked really close to Fang as they came back to the bakery. They noticed Sea More standing outside by the carriage all on his own and went toward him.

“Hello,” the pony spoke as she came to the halfling as she and Fang came to a stop.

“You seem happy,” Sea More commented, noticing Coco's grin.

Coco giggled a little while Fang kept a grip on himself. He didn't want to hurt Sea More in public so he did his best to maintain a straight composure.

“It was nice,” Fang smiled as he looked at Coco. “It's also been a while since I sat in the grass.”

“What else did you do in the grass?” Sea More pursued with a raise of his brow.

Fang couldn't keep his cool expression, and instead, showed his burning anger. His sharp tooth turned hot red like a sword being pulled out of a furnace. Coco saw his angry face and asked, “Why are you getting upset? Sea More just asked what we were doing.”

Immediately, Fang extinguished his anger. “I just... well... I don't like to be teased,” he stuttered.

“Well don't worry.” The pony then gave Fang a suggestive look. “He doesn't need to know what we did in the grass.”

Fang's face flushed. His fang once again burned; however, this time, in embarrassment. “You're not helping,” he grunted. But Coco didn't reply. She briskly walked inside the cafe.

“So...” Sea More said with his brow high again, “what did you two do in the grass?”

“Plotting a way to hurt you,” Fang responded coldly.

“I bet there was a lot of plot involved.”

“I'm going to hurt you when we get back,” Fang spoke through his teeth.

“Sure sure,” Sea More waved a hoof.

Both changelings then stood in silence, awaiting Coco, Chrysalis, and Suri. It was a good while before the three of them made their way out of the facility.

“So, am I clear on what needs to be done?” Chrysalis asked Suri as they came toward the wagon.

“Yes,” the pony replied.

“Good.”

Going over to the carriage door, Chrysalis went inside. Coco looked at Suri and said, “I'm glad you have had a change of heart.”

“It's the least I can do,” Suri replied, her ears folding back.

Coco reached and touched her friend's shoulder. “I know you can be good. Just try. Okay?”

“Okay.” Both mares then embraced each other for a quick moment. When they broke away, the ponies saw Chrysalis levitating a small pouch.

“In this sack,” the large changeling spoke, “is money for anything you need to purchase here in Canterlot. I will pay you when the job is done.”

“Yes,” Suri nodded. “Understood.”

The bag of money was then lobbed at the pony. Suri fumbled it as she tried to catch it, but managed to get a hold of the sack.

Clearing her voice, Chrysalis looked down at her friend. “We will be taking our leave.”

“Okay.”

With no more words, Chrysalis entered the carriage by herself. Coco faced Suri and smiled at her. “Well, good luck with your work.”

“Thank you, Coco. For everything you have done for me.” Suri's ears fell back still ashamed of her past actions toward Coco. “I still don't feel I deserve the second chance I got.”

“Too bad,” Coco smirked. “Anyways, I will see you in... four days.”

“Three days,” Fang spoke, correcting the pony.

The mare rolled her eyes. “Whatever.”

“So, I'll be seeing you, Coco,” Suri said as she turned around.

“You too. Goodbye.”

And with those last words, Suri Polomare left.

***

The ride back to the hive was in silence. Coco Pommel wanted to ride with just Chrysalis, and Chrysalis did want to have some quiet time to herself. This left Sea More to pull the carriage and Fang to just fly around outside. The queen sat beside her friend asleep. Some drool dripped from her mouth and it began to pool at the bottom of the floor.

As for Coco, she was busy looking out the carriage window, enjoying the view in the sky. The clouds were below her and blanketed over the land from beneath, not showing the slightest bit of ground. The sun was beginning to set, casting a brilliant color of orange, yellow, and red over the sea of white. Coco felt like she was in a dream. She never thought that clouds could look so beautiful. They almost looked soft enough that she would bounce off of them if she jumped on them; of course, she knew only pegasi could do that.

Fang on the occasion passed by the window to gaze at Coco for a moment. The pony would marvel at how the changeling flew and slightly wished she had wings of her own.

When they were approaching their destination, Coco saw the large jagged mountain poke through the clouds like an iceberg drifting at sea. The moment the wagon went down, it made Coco's heart jump a little. She looked at the queen to see if her sleep was disturbed. She was still asleep.

The window fogged up a bit as the carriage descended through the clouds. When they exited the white cotton, the walkway was in sight of Coco. In a sudden movement, the wagon dived. The pony clung to Chrysalis' arm, hoping the landing would be a soft one.

KUUUU-KRRRSHHH!

The impact of the wagon crashing on the ground made Coco bounce from her seat and tumble onto the floor, her face breaking her fall. After a short while, the carriage came to a complete stop. Then the door opened.

“We are-” Fang was cut short when he noticed Coco was faced down. “Are you alright?” he asked.

The mare lifted her face from the ground, her eyes spinning. “Ugh... I don't know.”

“Did you enjoy the landing?” Sea More asked as his head poked from the top of the doorway.

Angry that his friend was hurt, Fang snagged Sea More's hair and pulled him down. Sea More fell to the ground with a hard thump. “Good job! You hurt our guest!”

Sea More didn't get angry with his friend; he just smiled. “At least you care about her.” A good kick came to his shoulder. He grunted in pain, but then began to chuckle. “See, you do care.”

In his peripheral, Fang saw Coco slowly getting up. He climbed into the carriage and offered a hoof to her. She giggled as Fang pulled her up, “How kind of you.”

“Just being polite to the guest of honor.”

“Aww,” Sea More said from behind, “how sweet.”

“SHUT UP!” Inferno Fang barked as he turned his head to glare at the changeling behind him.

The moment he yelled, Fang saw the queen twitch in his peripheral. Very slowly, her eyes opened. They gazed upon him with an angry glow of emerald green. “You dare wake me up in such a manner?” Chrysalis asked coldly.

“Forgive me, my queen,” Fang stuttered. “Sea More was being an idiot again, and I had to shut him up.”

“When is he not being an idiot?” Looking at Fang and Coco, the changeling asked, “Will you two excuse me? I wish to exit.” With no verbal response, the two moved out of the queen's way. Chrysalis took her time getting out of the wagon. She hunched her back, stretching her limbs.

“Fang,” Chrysalis spoke.

“Yes, my queen!”

“Make sure Coco gets to her room at a reasonable time. I wish to be alone.”

Upon hearing the statement, Coco asked, “Is something wrong?”

Ignoring her friend, Chrysalis looked at Sea More. “Sea More.”

“Yes, my queen!”

She was quiet for a moment, thinking of something to say. “Stop being an idiot.”

“I'll try,” he shrugged.

Chrysalis didn't want to deal with Sea More's antics, so she left him, flying up into the air and to the castle.

Coco walked to the entrance of the carriage, watching her friend move toward the mountain. She turned to Fang, “What's wrong with her?”

“Just leave her be. She needs to be alone.”

“How come?”

Sea More chuckled, “You do ask a lot of questions.”

Coco creased her brow. “I'm worried about my friend. Is there anything wrong with that?”

“See, there you go with another question.”

The running joke about her was getting under the mare's skin. “Haha... Very funny.” Sea More turned around to walk away from them when Coco said, “Since you are being quite the smart aleck, I have a question: didn't your mother teach you better and not pester mares?”

Sea More froze.

Coco Pommel felt that she hit a nerve and felt that she went too far. She glanced at Fang to see his reaction to her question; he just looked at his friend. Turning around, Sea More faced the pony. His wings buzzed as he lifted off the ground, flying over to Coco.

Upon landing in front of the carriage, he looked up at the pony with a blank stare. “My mother taught me well, and I am grateful for what she has done for me.” Not wanting to be around, Sea More rapidly fluttered his wings and took off quickly.

“You should be more careful when talking about a changeling's mother,” Fang spoke.

Coco looked at her friend, “How come?”

“We take pride in our family. My mother is what brought me into this world. She cared for me. She carried me. She loved me. She nurtured me. She protected me.” Fang looked deep into Coco's eyes. “Even though I am grown up, I still go to my mother so she can comfort me; all changelings do this. Our mothers are one of two things where we can feel true love.”

The pony smiled, “That's sweet. I never thought of it like that.”

“I assume you don't sleep beside your mother anymore.”

Coco couldn't help but let out a laugh. “Hehe, it's just weird. But I still talk to her.”

Fang smiled, “That's good. Your mother must be a wonderful mare.” His friend nodded.

Then a thought came to Coco. “So, you just said your mother is one of two things when you feel true love. What is the second?”

Pink color bled onto Fang's cheeks. “Wh-what do you think? From another mare of course.”

“O-oh, right. Hehe.”

Clearing his throat, Fang asked, “Anyways, shall we be going?”

“Yes,” Coco nodded. She walked outside and onto the stony ground. She heard the wagon creak as Fang walked out of it. When she turned to see her friend, her eyes fell upon the dresses and outfits that were inside. “What are we going to do about the dresses?”

I forgot about those... Fang thought to himself. In his peripheral, he saw a changeling flying through the air. “You there!” he called.

At once the changeling came down to him and landed beside him and Coco. “What is it Inferno Fang?” it asked.

“Take these dresses and outfits to the pony's room,” Fang instructed. “And don't let anything happen to them. The queen would be quite peeved if something happened to them.”

“Yes, sir!” The changeling looked at Coco and smirked. “So this is your special somebuggy everychangeling has been talking about.”

Fang was quick and was in the changeling's face. “Do as I have instructed,” he spoke through his teeth.

“N-no need for hostility, s-sir.”

“Then make no more comments and do what I asked.” Taking a step back, Fang looked at the changeling seriously. “Get moving.”

“Y-yes sir!” In a quick moment, the changeling moved and got to work.

Turning to Coco, Fang saw that she was nervous. “Is something wrong?”

“Not really,” she responded. “It's just your serious work face that surprised me.”

“It's something I must do sometimes.”

Coco smiled with a nod, “I understand. Business is business.”

Fang mirrored his friend's expression. “That's good.” Taking in a deep breath, the changeling looked up to the sky, sighing after a short moment. “So what would you like to do?”

“Hmm...” Coco thought for a moment. “I would like to go to the garden.”

“Why there?” Fang asked.

“Well, Chrysalis did say that the garden was made because of Beauty Fly. I would like to go there and see what she influenced.”

The changeling nodded, “Very well.”

“Oh, and one more thing,” the pony spoke.

“Yes?”

Coco smirked at Fang, “Don't get so offended when others tease you.”

Fang looked a bit nervous. “I'll... try.” It also doesn't help that I am very fond of you.

***

Even though the light in the sky was fading and the overcast hid the blue atmosphere, the beauty of the rose garden was very awe-inspiring. Red, white, and pink rose bushes were mixed with each other, leaving a random pattern of color. The tile was very worn and gray; some weeds sprouted from the cracks.

The location of the garden was on a small balcony that overlooked the forest that surrounded the jagged mountain. Coco was expecting the place to be somewhere in the forest or high above the mountainside and that the garden would have some hedge maze with an assortment of various flowers. But in reality, the size of it was small and simple. Yet, it had its own gentle atmosphere, so the pony had no complaints.

Coco slowly walked through the small garden, smelling a pink flower every once in a while. “I do love the smell of pink roses,” the pony smiled as she inhaled through her snout.

“I must admit,” Fang inputted, “changelings really do love the natural world.”

The mare looked at her friend who stood a good distance away. “I guess that is another thing ponies and changelings can relate to as well.”

Fang tilted his head left and right. “I suppose.”

As he stood stationary, the changeling watched Coco Pommel lean forward and stiff a pink rose. Her smile warmed his chest more than any flame he had ever created. His heart began to pound as he began to wonder how she could look any more wonderful. Then... he had an idea.

In the corner of his eye, Fang saw a small pink rose at the bottom of the bush. It was a delicate little thing and would look lovely on his friend.

Using telepathy, the changeling removed the flower, leaving a little bit of the stem on it. “Coco, would you come here,” Fang asked.

“Hmm?” Coco turned to look at Fang who wore a flustered expression. “What is it?” She walked over to her friend wondering why he summoned her. When she got close, Coco noticed the small rose levitating in front of Fang.

“I umm... want to give you this for your mane,” Fang stuttered. “Y-you know, like a hair accessory.”

“Oh!” Coco looked away in embarrassment. “That's sweet of you.” The pony's cheeks flushed with the same color of the rose. Her eyes fell back to the flower. “Umm, maybe you could remove some of the thorns from the stem first.”

The changeling looked at the rose and picked off the pointy needles. Bringing it in front of his face, Fang asked, “May I... apply it?”

Coco brought a hoof up behind the back of her head. “I would like it here please,” she smiled, still blushing.

Very slowly, Fang drifted the flower over to the pony. The stem slowly went to the back of her skull. When Fang removed his magic from the rose, it stayed still.

“How does it look?” the mare asked as she gave her friend a sincere smile.

“It matches your blush,” Fang smiled nervously.

“Aww, stop it.” Coco turned her head, clenching her eyes tightly. “You flatter me. You know, I normally wear a barrette with a flower attached to it.” Coco touched the flower. “I guess this will do for now.” As she opened her eyes, something caught her attention. A statue that hid among the flowers. “What's that?” Very quickly, she went over to it.

Fang's face became disgruntled. And here I thought she was going to kiss me and feed me some love. Ignoring his hopeful thoughts, Fang followed his friend. When he caught up, he Coco watched from a distance.

Coco observed the statue. It was a small statue of a changeling. Its expression was fearless; it looked to the sky, unafraid. “What a nice little statue.” Looking at the statue, there were different flowers: tulips. The flowers were an arrangement of white, pink, and yellow. Interesting. “Fang, why are there tulips here?” Coco turned her head to see the changeling behind her.

He was quiet. And looked quite sad.

“What's wrong?” Coco asked.

“This...” Fang hesitated, “is Beauty Fly's grave...”

A shiver ran down Coco Pommel's spine. “O-oh,” Coco stuttered. Her ears folded as she took a step back from the stone figure. Coco blinked slowly and looked up at Beauty Fly's eyes. So fearless. So determined.

And yet, knowing that the remains of a long lost princess was beneath the soil of the tulips, it left a cold and depressing feeling in the air. Fang appeared in Coco's peripheral, though her eyes did not move. “Don't be sad,” the changeling spoke.

Tearing her eyes off of the statue, the pony looked up at Fang. “As long as you are there for me, I won't,” she smiled.

Fang smiled back. “And neither will I.”

A quick breeze blew some peddles off of a pink rose from the garden. They danced around the air before dashing between Coco Pommel and Inferno Fang. Both pony and changeling looked at one another, afraid of speaking another word. Besides, the moment between them was best to be left undisturbed.

A loud sound rumbled through the air, making a loud “hrrrrrr.” It shook Coco's body as it traveled into her. The sound didn't startle the pony; it did, however, intrigue her. “What was that,” Coco asked.

She looked to her friend and saw Fang looking very attentive as to where the noise came from. The sound came again, but much lighter and quieter than its last burst of noise. As Coco listened, the sound began to move up and down in a harmonious rhythm. After hearing it for half a minute, the pony asked, “What is that sound?”

“An organ,” Fang replied.

“Why is it so loud?”

Fang looked down at Coco. “Because the queen is dancing.”

“Oh, that sounds nice,” the mare smiled.

Fang let out a small sigh. “But it is not a happy dance.”

“How come?”

“STOP!” a loud voice boomed. It ripped through the air and caused Coco's ears to ring. Fang grimaced in pain as he too heard the voice.

“W-what was-”

“Chrysalis,” Fang answered.

“Why did-”

Inferno Fang brought his hoof under Coco's mouth and caused her to go silent. He slowly pushed up and closed the mare's mouth. “No more questions for you. You have reached your limit.”

Coco grinned and pushed the stallion's hoof aside. “Oh shut up,” she huffed.

“AGAIN!” Chrysalis boomed once more.

Her voice made the ringing intensify in Coco's ears. After the ringing subsided, she looked at Fang, ready to ask him a question. But remembering her friend's past action, she just stared at him.

“What?” Fang asked, confused at what Coco was doing.

“Oh nothing,” she replied. “Just not asking questions.”

“Good,” the changeling grinned widely, flashing his teeth.

A huff of hot air rushed out of Coco's nostrils as she walked away from Fang. She then went to look down the hallway of the mountain's interior. “I would like to see her dance,” Coco said. Coco looked back at her friend. “Maybe something is bothering her.”

“Perhaps. You can find out if you like.”

Coco nodded. “Sure.”

“But you have to ask me in the form of a question before I take you to the queen.” The pony looked at Fang with an irritated stare. Fang chuckled a bit before saying, “What? Can't I have a little fu-”

In a swift movement, Coco charged at the changeling. Fang was startled by Coco's sudden movement and didn't know what to do. And then, what she did next caught him off guard; Coco kissed him on the cheek. She clung her lips on Fang for a while before parting from him. When Coco got a good look at Fang's face, she could obviously tell he was shocked and flustered. His large tooth burned hot red and his cheeks flushed with pink.

“That shut you up,” Coco grinned widely. Fang could not get himself to move. He just stood still, surprised at Coco's sudden act. “Now, as your guest, I will not ask, but I demand that I see the Queen of Changelings.

“A-alright...” the changeling stuttered.

Coco began to walk down the hallway of the castle. “Oh, and by the way,” she spoke, turning back to Fang with her same smug smile, “I ask the questions. And your welcome for the love.”

Fugue

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Who you Work for
Ch. 27

Coco followed behind Fang as they went through the winding castle hallways. They walked in silence as they came closer to the sound of the horrifying organ. Coco was curious as to why Chrysalis was dancing to such a loud instrument. As for Fang, he was still flustered by Coco's kiss; his fang still burned and his cheeks blushed brightly. Others who passed by the two either snickered or spoke under their breath. But despite the other changelings' reaction to him and his friend, nothing seemed to get under the changeling's skin after what Coco had done. Perhaps she was his love bug. He didn't know.

And neither did she.

In Coco's mind, she pondered why the queen was dancing. As she recalled what Fang said, the changeling told her that it was no happy dance. The pony wondered how anypony or... anything could be dancing sadly. It was a rogue concept to Coco as she tried to imagine somepony dance with a sad attitude. Or even angry.

“STOP!” the queen roared loudly. In an instant, the organ music came to a halt. The mare stopped in her tracks, her eardrums ringing loudly as the sound of Chrysalis’s voice blasted into them. She clenched her eyes tightly in hopes that the pain might go away sooner.

“Are you alright?” Fang spoke.

Coco Pommel opened her eyes slowly to see her friend staring at her. His overgrown tooth didn't burn with red anymore. Fang was able to get over his flustered attitude when he noticed the mare was in pain.

“I'm alright, thanks,” she replied as she looked up at him and gave the stallion a smile.

Fang grinned back as the pony looked at him. He then turned around. “We are almost there.”

He began to walk forward and Coco quickly moved after him. “Where are we going in particular?” Coco asked.

“The ballroom,” he answered.

Coco raised her brows. “You have a ballroom?”

“Yes. We sometimes have events there, but only rarely.”

“How come?”

“We don't normally have things to celebrate,” Fang frowned.

With haste, Coco walked up beside the changeling. He looked at her as she came into view. “Maybe,” Coco began, “you can celebrate the day Chrysalis makes a treaty with Princess Celestia... well if the day comes.”

Fang's right brow rose. “And what makes you think that might happen?”

A smile grew on the pony's face. “You did say I may be the answer to Chrysalis' problems.”

“That might happen,” Fang agreed. “It would be nice if you were to be celebrated by a race of changelings.”

“I would also be the first pony to be celebrated by changelings as well you know.”

Fang nodded. “I do think that would be interesting.” The changeling stopped in his tracks. “I do believe you can help the queen.”

“You think so?” Coco asked as the two looked at one another.

Fang grinned widely exposing his sharp teeth. “I already answered that question you silly questionmare.”

The pony bumped her flank into his as she played along with his teasing.

“And by the way,” Fang continued, “don't tell me not to get upset about others telling us we are lovebugs if you are going to get bothered by me and others calling you the questionmare.”

Coco Pommel rolled her eyes. “Whatever.” The mare and stallion both looked away from each other to hide their blush as the word “lovebug” stuck in their mind. But the word quickly fled Fang's mind as he began to approach a corner that went to the right.

“We are just about there,” Fang spoke.

“Oh, okay,” Coco responded as the word "lovebug" fled her mind.

Turning to the right, a large door showed itself at the end of a long hallway. It was tall and looked quite intimidating. The artwork that was upon the large seal were wrought-iron bars that twisted and reached out like angry roots digging through the dirt. The giant door almost felt like something monstrous was behind it; though some could argue that Queen Chrysalis could be quite monstrous on her own.

A changeling stood on each side of the door, each holding a spear. As Coco and Fang approached, they both noticed that the two guards who stood watch at the door had a hint of nervousness on their faces.

“What is she doing here?” the guard on the left spoke as he pointed his spear at Coco. The pony froze at the sight of the sharp weapon looking at her chest, her eyes wide and afraid.

Before Fang was about to interject with hot flames and sharp teeth in order to protect his friend, the guard on the right spoke, “You idiot! Don’t point that at her!” The right guard looked at the door before resuming his statement. “Didn’t you hear? She has befriended Queen Chrysalis. This pony is now very close to the queen.”

In an instant, the left guard changed his attitude. “M-my apologies.” He bowed his head. “I have been ignorant in knowing the news about you, pony.”

A smile grew on Coco’s face. “No worries.” She glanced at Fang who glared at the left guard. Coco gently nudged him to grab his attention. “Don’t be mad at him. He didn’t know.”

Despite her words, Fang was still angry with the changeling. How dare he threaten the guest of Queen Chrysalis. Even though the ignorant guard deserved a punishment for jabbing his pointy weapon at the pony, Fang didn't want to create any commotion, especially when the queen is dancing. “Now, allow us to enter,” Fang spoke coldly.

“I wouldn’t recommend it,” the right guard requested. “If you hadn’t heard, Queen Chrysalis is quite bothered with something. You know how she is when she dances.”

“AGAIN!” the queen roared. The sound was so loud that is made Coco Pommel stumble and fall over.

Quickly, Fang was at her side to help her up. “Coco, are you alright?” he asked as he pulled her up.

“Just… a little dizzy…” Coco’s head swayed around as she tried to regain stability in her neck. She was surprised that the loud shout made her nearly faint. Once she was able to stiffen her neck, Coco looked to Fang. “Maybe I should check up on her.”

He nodded. As Coco reached for the door, Fang warned, “Just…” The mare looked at the changeling as he stared at her. “…be careful.”

“I will.” With all her might, she pulled on the door. Its weight was heavy and crawled slowly as it opened. After quickly losing all of her strength, Coco saw that she had barely cracked the door open. However, it was just enough for her to squeeze through.

Upon entering, Coco’s eyes widened. The room was massive. The ceiling was high and had stalagmites on the ceiling that stabbed downward like a trap waiting to be deactivated. A large golden chandelier hung from the high ceiling. In each of its six arms held a large light-blue orb of light that shined brightly and illuminated the entire room. The tile was a simple black and white checkered pattern that stretched across the room. As for the room itself, it was very empty. There were only two things that stood out to the pony: on the opposite side of the ballroom was an organ. It stood tall with its pipes that almost touched the stalagmites that hung from above. Coco wondered how such a large thing could be fit into the room, but decided not to.

The other thing that stood out to Coco Pommel was not Queen Chrysalis who stood at the center of the room; it was a filly changeling that was posed in front of the large changeling. Both Chrysalis and the filly were dressed in beautiful attire. The queen wore her light-turquoise dress that she wore when Coco met her. The gold necklace shined as the lights reflected off of it and the sapphire gem remained a deep dark-blue as it sat in the middle of the jewelry. What surprised Coco was that the filly was dressed in the same attire that Chrysalis wore.

Who is this filly? Why is she dressed the same as Chrysalis?

“Get ready,” the queen spoke.

“Yes my queen,” replied a voice that game from the organ.

Queen Chrysalis stamped her hoof on the floor once. In that moment, the filly stood with her left front hoof off the ground. Her head held up high. She looked fearless. Unafraid.

Chrysalis stamped her hoof again and posed herself. She stood over the little one and held her head high as well with her eyes closed.

Then, a horrible sound came.

The organ roared to life as sound burst from it. The moment it began, both Chrysalis and the filly moved. The first three notes that played made them move three steps from their original position. Then the organ picked up the pace and sped up, then hung in the air. With each note being played, the queen and child took a step, spinning their bodies with the music.

The sound then paused briefly. Despite the volume of the organ, Coco Pommel watched at the door, amused by the dancing.

A noise came from the organ. Both dancers took a step. Then another noise overlapped the previous sound. Another step. Another sound. Another step. The sound grew and grew with a faster pace until it roared so loud, it vibrated Coco Pommel to the core. Noise hung in the air before it calmed down.

Amidst the pause, the dancers held a proud pose. Elegant, yet powerful.

Without warning the instrument sounded again and picked up speed. But despite this, Chrysalis and the filly stepped with every note being played.

A pause.

The organist repeated the same notes. And again, the same amount of steps were taken. The musician then played a rapid number of notes and made the two dancers move slower than usual. After the music slowed down, it began to roar loudly once again.

Coco was beginning to respect the music even though it made her ears hurt. She also admired how both the queen and filly were able to move in sync so well.

Another roar erupted from the organ, followed by silence. Then the speed of the organ increased. Both dancers moved wildly as they kept up with the tempo of the organist’s notes. Their heads swayed up and down. Left and right. Their bodies swinging like a violent pendulum. Coco herself felt moved by the music as well but not in the dancing matter. It was inspiring as it was horrifying.

The music continued, moving up and down with speed. But again, speed of the notes matched the movement of the two dancers.

Once more, the organ roared with anger. A quick series of notes were played, followed by a cluster of aggressive notes that screamed in the ballroom. Coco could tell that the music had changed tone. It sounded evil and frightening as many sounds both slow and fast erupted from the instrument. The tempo eventually slowed down as the organist played their horrible notes. Each time the organist hit a cluster of notes, Coco pictured the changeling slamming their hooves on the instrument in order to get it to play louder. And with each note, the dancers stamped their hooves on the tile floor. Their expressions were angry, reflecting the tone of the music. However, just when the the music was at the pinnacle of creepy, the musician played a harmonious conclusion as the filly and queen faced each other and bowed their heads, kneeling to the ground with closed eyes.

Coco Pommel couldn’t help but clap her hooves together. She was impressed by the entire performance that was dealt with in front of her. Unaware of her presence, Chrysalis jerked her head toward the pony. Instead of getting angry, the queen smiled and asked, “Did you enjoy what you witnessed?”

“Very much,” Coco smiled. The pony looked for the filly who danced with Chrysalis. Sure enough, the child stood beside the queen. “Who is she?”

Chrysalis looked down at the little one. “This is Teethling. You remember her, right?”

Gasping, Coco Pommel took a few steps forward. When the changeling was in sight, she immediately recognized the child. “Oh, hello there.” Happy to see a familiar face, the pony quickened her pace and went toward the two dancers.

Teethling blushed brightly as her eyes shimmered behind her long mane that blocked her eyes. “You… liked my dancing?”

“It was very well done.” The child became more flustered and tried to hide her blushing face by hiding behind Chrysalis. Coco giggled at the cute action.

“I do agree,” the queen responded, trying to get a view of Teethling. However, Chrysalis’ dress was making it difficult to see the little one.

Chrysalis then felt her dress shuffle, then a tickle from her underbelly. Teethling had crawled below the queen.

“But… didn’t I anger you?” Teethling asked. Her voice was muffled by the dress as she stood inside it. “I mean… you were yelling… Was I not dancing well?”

Teethling couldn’t see the queen smile as she continued to hide. “You danced very well,” Chrysalis answered. “I was the one who was out of step and frustrated with my own misalignment.”

The young one poked her head out of Chrysalis’ dress and looked up at her. “Really?”

“Would you believe me if I let you wear my crown for a moment?”

Teethling couldn’t believe what she had just heard. Teethling’s mouth was wide open in disbelief as she watched her queen remove her crown and place it upon her head. Taking in a deep breath, the child squealed as she shook with happiness.

“Thank you Queen Chrysalis,” Teethling giggled unable to contain her excitement.

“Why don’t you go to your mother. I am sure she would love to see her princess,” the queen winked.

With nothing holding the changeling back, Teethling ran out of Chrysalis dress and through the empty ballroom. Coco followed the child with her eyes and saw Teethling run toward a changeling who stood by the organ. The pony didn’t notice the mother’s presence at all as the Chrysalis danced with Teethling.

“So,” Chrysalis spoke to Coco, raising a brow, “you wish to ask me something, yes?”

The pony giggled a little.

“Well, being the questionmare that I am, I’m sure you are not surprised that I went out of my way to ask you a question.”

“You are too predictable,” Chrysalis grinned. “So, what is it you wish to ask?”

Coco Pommel thought about what Fang said. “Fang told me that you were dancing, so I came to watch you.”

“Alright.”

“He also said that you were dancing sadly.”

“Yes I was.”

The changeling waited for a question to be asked.

“I just…” Coco looked over to Teethling, watching her admire her crown as the mother watched. “Are you feeling okay?”

The large changeling looked down at the pony as if she was about to seal her fate. Chrysalis slowly took in a deep breath and let out a slow sigh. “I am not.” Slowly, Chrysalis moved her head and looked at Teethling. She stared at her as the mother looked so proud of her daughter. “I am not feeling ‘okay…’”

“What’s wrong then?” Coco asked as she looked at her friend earnestly.

“I am sure you remember the story I told you and your former employer. The one about my daughter.”

“Yes,” Coco nodded. “I happened to visit the garden when you left me with Fang and Sea More.”

A smile grew on Chrysalis’ face. “Lovely is it not?”

“Mmhmm. I even saw Beauty Fly’s statue.”

Like a candle being snuffed of its light, so did Chrysalis’ bright smile as it quickly fled. She turned her head away from Coco and stared at the floor. “It haunts me…”

“What does?” Coco asked.

“Just…” Chrysalis cleared her throat. A fake smirk came onto the queen’s face and Coco could tell her friend was wearing a false facade. “One moment.” Walking away from the pony, the tall leader went to the child and mother.

Coco remained still as she watched the queen go to the mother and child. She heard Chrysalis speak but could only make out very few words like “wish” and “alone.” I wonder if Chrysalis’ daughter has something to do with her current attitude.

As fast as her little feet would walk, Teethling went to Coco with the crown still on her head. “I have to go. Chrysalis wants to talk to you alone.”

The pony was at a loss of words. She could have figured that Chrysalis wanted to speak with her, but didn’t know how to reply to the child. While Coco thought of what to say, Teethling took off the crown and gave it to her. “Give this back to Queen Chrysalis. Okay?”

Coco only nodded as she took hold of the ancient head wear. Teethling then jogged over to the large door and waited for her parent. The mother walked past Coco only to smile at her before walking to the kid. Another changeling followed the mare. His mane was very wild and messy. Coco could only guess he was the organist.

They both took their time as they went to the large wrought-iron decorated exit. A loud creak came from the door hinges when it slowly opened. Coco saw the two adults stare at her before making their leave. The last one to depart was Teethling who gave the pony a wave, then scrambled out of the ballroom.

Then Coco was now alone. Alone with the queen.

She turned to see the queen looking at the massive organ. Chrysalis didn’t bother to see if her friend was still there; she knew Coco wouldn’t leave her.

With nothing left to do, the pony walked over to the changeling. As she came close, Coco spoke from behind, “So what seems to be the matter?”

A sigh, yet no reply. Chrysalis remained stagnant as she continued to look at the instrument. Grabbing her attention, Coco placed a hoof on the queen’s shoulder. “You said ‘it haunts me’ a few moments ago. What does that mean?”

The queen looked down at her friend with a sad look in her eyes. “The memory of my daughter. That is what haunts me.”

“Why does it haunt you?”

Anger now burned in Chyrsalis’ emerald orbs. “Because that princess that everypony praises is sitting in a happy palace while she hides the fact that she took my daughter’s life!”

Coco frowned, “Is that all?”

“No. There is more…”

The mare walked in front of Chrysalis. “You can tell me.”

A light smile grew from the changeling’s lips. “I am glad you are here. I never get to vent like this.”

Coco mimicked her friend’s expression and said, “What are friends for?”

“You tell me, Ms. Questionmare.” Both mares laughed before resuming their discussion.

“Okay, so what else is making you feel this way?”

A glance to the organ and then back to Coco. “I just miss my daughter…” Chrysalis’ ears fell back. “Is there anything wrong with that?”

“No, it is not,” Coco answered. “But why did you dance and why with Teethling?”

“I like to exhaust myself of my sorrow by dancing. As for Teethling, she and a select few dance with me as I used to with Beauty Fly.”

“You dance with other fillies in your daughter’s absence, don't you?”

Coco then saw Queen Chrysalis’ face writhe into a depressed frown and began to cry. “You don't know what it is like, Coco! To watch the one you raised die in front of you!” Like a magnet, Coco was quickly against her friend as she reached an arm around the queen’s neck.

“Every… single… TIME I even think about my dear Beauty Fly, the floodgates of past pains flood over me! And I abhor Princess Celestia for not giving us love that harsh winter.”

The pony felt warm tears crash into her shoulder as she allowed Chrysalis to lament. The queen inhaled a harsh breath of air and sighed. She had no more words to say.

“I…” Coco began cautiously, “...know you dislike Princess Celestia to the fullest, but I remember you saying that… umm… Left Wing-”

“What about him?” Chrysalis spoke harshly, offended that her friend would dare speak his name.

“R-right! Umm…” The outburst caught Coco off guard and made her stumble over her words. “So, didn't you say before that you hated him the most?”

Chrysalis stepped backwards, making Coco remove her soft grip from her friend. The pony saw the queen’s eyes; they were slightly red from all the sobbing Chrysalis had done. Her eyes looked like an emerald that had red roots infecting it like a virus.

“I do hate him the most,” the changeling answered. “But as I said before, he is dead and I don't need to think about him. What he did was what he did and that is that.”

“Well- never mind,” Coco spoke but stopped mid-sentence.

“You were going to say that Beauty Fly is dead as well and that I should move on as I did with Left Wing,” Chrysalis said as she read her friend. “I can see in your eyes that is what you were going to say.”

“Y-yeah…” Coco sighed and looked at the ground. “But I know why you can't stop thinking about Beauty Fly.”

“And what answer do you have for me?”

“Because you loved her,” Coco smiled.

Chrysalis saw her friend grin and couldn't help but smile back. “Yes. I loved my child so much. I loved everything about her. I just don't want her memory to fade. She was a hero during that harsh winter after all.”

“Then remember that instead of what Princess Celestia did.”

That statement only made Chrysalis angry. Her eyes leered at Coco as if she betrayed her. “Apparently I was not clear a few moments ago,” Chrysalis spoke coldly. “I watched my child die in front of me. She starved to death! I think my anger is justified.”

The pony couldn't argue with the queen at this point. Coco knew that despite Beauty Fly’s permanent absence, Chrysalis was still a mother at heart; at least, somewhere in her heart.

Coco looked away from Chrysalis, not sure what to say next.

“I appreciate you trying to help me move forward and not be so hurt about Beauty Fly,” the queen spoke and made her friend looked back at her. “But because of Celestia’s act against me, my daughter, and the entire changeling race, I have a reason to dislike her.”

“But… will you at least try and reason with her like you said you would” Coco pleaded.

“I will try,” Chrysalis nodded. “But anything could happen when I do try and converse with her when she knows who I really am.”

“Just do, don't try,” the pony said, not allowing Chrysalis to make a casual attempt of mending a broken wall.

The changeling looked up at the organ that loomed over herself and Coco. “I never take orders from anychangeling or pony.” She then turned to the mare with a smile. “Though, you are the exception to this rule I guess.”

Coco giggled, “Thanks.”

“Thank you for being a good friend to me.” Chrysalis went up to Coco and pulled her in close with her long arm. Coco’s face pressed hard against the queen's torso, though she didn't care.

After absorbing some of Coco’s love, Chrysalis removed herself from her friend and looked down to the pony. “Shall we be going?”

“Yes.” Both mares began to walk toward the wrought-iron door.

Unanswered Future

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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.

Who You Work For

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There was quite the chatter now that fifteen changelings were mingling among themselves in Coco’s domain. Coco didn't know most of the changelings that stood around, but a few familiar faces were about such as Snackrifice, Silky Maggot, and Stitch Snitch.

While everychangeling was talking, Coco stood at the dresses. She wanted to talk with others, but something stood out among the mare outfits: one of the dresses weren't blue; it was turquoise. Coco counted the dresses over and over and the blue dresses were the same amount as red outfits: ten.

Did Suri make an extra or did Sea More accidentally take this dress?

The pony scooted the blue dresses out of the way to get a good look at it.

It came almost close to a wedding dress. The flank side was mostly turquoise. At the bottom of the skirt, the trim looked to be very small creamy white roses that spun around the bottom edge. Two small light-cream stripes ran down the back of the dress and touched the back of the neck. At the front were short ribbons that were knitted into the breast and had a nice arc to them as they stuck out. And at the knot of the ribbons was a clear diamond. It shined and glittered every time Coco moved her eyes ever so slightly.

Coco loved how the dress looked. It stood out among the others with its lighter color scheme.
But it still bothered the pony. It still made her wonder why it was here. Perhaps it was a mystery.

The room suddenly grew quiet. Coco turned around to see all the changelings facing the door, bowing. There at the entrance, their queen stood. Chrysalis looked around at her subjects, proud to see them submit to her rule.

As the queen's large emerald eyes fell upon the pony, she took no time at all and walked over to her.

“Good day my queen,” Coco Pommel spoke, bowing her head.

A smile crept onto Chrysalis’ face without knowing it. “Today is a good day indeed.”

Looking back up, Coco noticed Fang standing beside Chrysalis. She also noticed three new changelings behind him, making twenty in total now in the room.

“Are you ready to start fitting my gatherers?” Chrysalis asked the pony.

“Of course,” Coco beamed.

***

It was a surprise to Coco that fitting the changelings was taking no time at all. Even though some had a hard time getting in and out of their clothing, it was none too difficult to give them a helping hoof.

The only one that was the most difficult to deal with was Snack. Snack didn't have a tough time getting into his clothing, but instead complained about how hungry he was. It got to a point to where Chrysalis picked a random outfit, shoved him into it, and threw him out quite literally.

Coco was now fitting Stitch Snitch into the last dress. It was one of the dresses made by Suri. The outfit was in a very dark blue that had blue ribbons knitted into it.

“You look like a wrapped gift ready to be unwrapped,” Coco said with a smile as she helped Stitch weave her head through the head hole.

“That sounds like a terrible one liner some stallion may ask me,” the changeling responded, rolling her eyes. After getting settled in the dress, Stitch stood in front of a mirror propped close by and saw her black self. Quickly, the mare turned into a lovely goldenrod earth pony with a wavy rose red mane.

Coco gasped a little, taken away by how beautiful she looked.

“You look very fancy in that,” Chrysalis said to Stitch.

The changeling was taken aback by the complement. “Y-you think so?”

“Your beauty almost marvels my own.”

As the queen smiled sincerely, the tailor couldn’t help but sob happily. “T-th-thank you my queen,” Stitch sniffed.

“You do look very beautiful,” Coco commented.

Stitch couldn't help but blush brightly as more streams of water ran down her face. “S-stop, please. I-I just morphed into a p-pony. Nothing else.”

“Then I bet your heart is ten times this physical beauty.”

Stitch Snitch could tell Coco was not lying. Love wafted off of the pony as she complimented the changeling.

Coco let out a sigh as only Fang, Chrysalis, and Stitch Snitch remained in the room. Sea More did come by to see how things were going, but quickly left when Chrysalis refused him to enter for some reason.

“You may now leave,” the queen spoke to Stitch.

“Of course my queen.”

Coco had to assist the changeling in getting her out of her dress. If Stitch could, she would do it herself. But because she was a changeling and the dress would stick to her like a magnet, help from another was needed.

With a quick bow to her queen and hug from her pony friend. Stitch left the room.

Now there were three who remained in the room. Coco Pommel looked up at the queen with a smile. “Now all we need is for you to be fitted into your dress.”

Chrysalis looked through the racks and found her dress. It stood out among the other blue dresses. She smiled at how great it looked and was still amazed by her friend’s work.

“Yes,” Chrysalis spoke. “We shall.” But a thought crossed her mind. “What about Inferno Fang?” He turned his head upwards at his leader as his name was pronounced.

“Fang doesn't need to be fitted into his outfit,” Coco replied. “He already fits in his clothes.”

“True,” he commented. “I was used as a model after all.”

“Still,” Chrysalis spoke, not convinced that was a reasonable excuse, “I want to see him fitted beside me. I umm…” Coco looked to the large changeling with interest as Chrysalis made a strange pause in her sentence. “I… also want to talk with my friend.” An awkward smile twitched and grew on the queen’s face.

She was not quite used to having a pony friend, let alone a friend she wanted to talk to. Chrysalis does not mind speaking to other changelings, but it is always “my queen” this, “my queen” that. Rarely do any of the changelings ask her if she is okay or if she needs someone to talk to. And when somechangeling does, it's always a child. They can somehow tell if their queen is feeling. Besides, Chrysalis had to hide most of her emotions to herself. She can't have her kind think she is going soft if she is scared or upset about something.

Despite the strange feeling of being friends with an earth pony, it was nice to finally have someone able to converse with her and not always be so formal.

“You can tell me anything,” Coco winked. Walking over to the dress wrack, she pulled out Fang’s and Chrysalis’ outfit. “Should I start with you Fang, or you Chrysalis?” she asked as she gestured each piece of clothing to the appropriate changeling.

“Fang,” Chrysalis ordered.

Coco shrugged, “Very well.”

Putting the dress back on the rack, the pony walked over to the stallion with his uniform in hoof and began to dress him.

Fang turned into his unicorn form not so that he could match his clothing. He did it so that he could hide his blush from both Coco and Chrysalis.

“Comfortable?” Coco asked Fang as she buttoned his shirt.

He wiggled his torso a little, feeling the fabric stick to his skin. “I think so.”

From a distance, Chrysalis watched her friend clothe Fang. Not wanting to stay quiet, she spoke, “Coco, may I ask you something?”

“Anything,” Coco answered without looking to the queen. “Though it's interesting that you are the one asking a question.”

“I know.” Chrysalis glanced around, nervous about something. “So I was wondering, if we could… What is the word…” She brought a hoof up to her head, trying to conjure up a better way of explaining what she wanted to say. “What is it called when mares want to talk about… things?”

“Girl talk.” Coco turned around to see her friend. “You did say you wanted to talk.”

Looking at Fang, Chrysalis said, “But I don’t want anychangeling to listen.” Suddenly, the queen shot a beam of green energy from her black horn at the changeling’s head. Fang flinched as his leader cast her spell on him. But when he realised he didn’t feel any pain, he was confused.

“What did you do?” Fang asked. But when he spoke, he couldn’t hear his words. The changeling was about to panic and wonder why he couldn’t hear, but recalled that his queen didn’t want others to hear hers and Coco’s conversation.

However, the pony was confused at the action. Before she could speak, however, Chrysalis said, “I cast a spell on him that removed his hearing. And don’t worry, he will be fine. I’ll give him his hearing back.”

“Alright.” Facing Fang again, Coco continued to clothe him. He and she smiled as they looked into each other's eyes for a short moment. “So what do you want to talk about?”

“Anything really.”

Thinking long and hard, Coco thought of an interesting question. “Okay, I have one for you: Have you ever thought about wanting to be with a stallion again?”

Chrysalis snorted, “Please, no stallion is worth my love. Besides, none of the changeling males here have the courage to try and sway me.”

“Then how did Left Wing become your husband?” A soft grumble came from the queen. “W-we don’t have to talk about him if you don’t want to.”

“No no, it’s… fine. I just- hate him a lot.”

Coco paused her movements. “But you loved him at some point, didn’t you?”

“You sure know how to ask your questions,” Chrysalis sighed.

“I try,” Coco shrugged as she resumed her work.”

A moment of silence rested in the air before the queen continued speaking. “I did love him. No. I was infatuated with that-” Another pause. “Whenever I was around, Left Wing was never afraid of casually greeting me. As much as I hate being greeted in such a manner, it never bothered me when he did it. But the one thing I absolutely loved about him was when he said, ‘Is there anything I can do to help?’ whenever I was bothered, sad, angry, or frustrated with something. No matter how hard I tried, Left Wing was able to read me so easily. He was so good with words, convincing me that things were not all that bad when in reality they were. Just… he knew how to speak.”

“Sounds to me like he was very nice,” Coco spoke as she began to adjust Fang’s mane.

“Too bad it was all a lie,” Chrysalis leered toward the ground.

“When did you fall in love with him?” the pony pursued.

Despite her hatred toward her ex-husband, the memory of his proposal was still a happy one. “One night, I have having terrible nightmares. Nightmares of mutiny. I awoke screaming hysterically. Of course, my guards quickly came to my aid. But he was the first to show up not only with flare, but power; and I love a stallion with power. When I got out of my bed, Left Wing came to me and said to me, ‘I am hear for you.’ And for some accursed reason, I fell in love with that traitorous freak.”

Lifting up Fang’s chin with her hoof, Coco turned his head left and right. “When did he become a traitor?”

Chrysalis let out a sigh, “Just three years after Beauty Fly’s birth. He asked me if he could obtain the title king. I obviously refused.”

“I thought when a subject marries somepony of loyal decent by default becomes king, or queen, or whatever.”

“Not in my kingdom.”

“Why is that?”

“Have you ever heard of a king bee? We changelings are an insect-like race. There is always one ruler.”

Coco nodded, “Fair point.” Taking a step back, the mare smiled at Fang. “You look very handsome,” she blushed. Fang didn’t know what his pony friend had just said, but he could only assume that she complimented him. Coco saw how everything complimented Fang. The shirt and its details and the crown that rested on his cranium.

Looking at Chrysalis, Coco said, “Now it’s your turn.”

“Very well.”

Walking over to the rolling rack, Coco removed Chrysalis dress. “I can’t wait to see you in this,” she said gleefully. But remembering Fang, Coco asked, “What about him?”

“I have an idea,” Chrysalis answered. Once more, she shot another beam of energy at his head. “Fang, go get your weapon.”

Being able to hear again slightly startled the changeling. “My scythe?”

“Yes. Go!”

“Y-es my queen!” At once Fang moved and left without giving a passing glance to Coco.

“Why does he need his big scary weapon?” Coco asked.

“Like I said, I love a stallion with power.”

Coco gasped a little. “You love Fang?”

“AHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Chrysalis laughed hysterically. “As if! He may be my personal guard, but that changeling will never please me the way Left Wing did.”

Something inside Coco was relieved that Chrysalis didn’t have any true feelings for Fang. Perhaps the love bug was biting her.

“You will see,” the queen spoke.

“Okay.” Finished with that train of thought, Coco went over to Chrysalis; ready to dress the queen. “Are you ready?”

“More than ever my friend,” she answered as she placed a hoof on the pony’s shoulder.

With a giggle, Coco began.

“So back to your husband,” Coco asked, “why did he betray you?”

“Because he wanted authority. The only title I was willing to give him was my husband. Then one day, when Beauty Fly was little, he told me an eeree threat: ‘I have the power to make a kingdom vanish. If I can persuade a queen to love me, I can persuade her followers to turn against her.’ And before I could retaliate against him, he vanished…”

Chrysalis shuffled herself as she slipped her forearms through the sleeves of the dress.

Coco paused her movement. “When did he… come back to kidnap Beauty Fly?”

“Years after he decided to turncoat. I- rather not think about it.”

Without any warning, Coco Pommel reached up towards Chrysalis’ neck and gently pulled it down. The queen leaned down as she allowed her friend to pull her in. Chrysalis lifted her hole-filled arm and embraced Coco. “I am enjoying this ‘girl talk.’ It’s nice to just talk about things.”

“Even though I ask too many questions,” Coco asked.

“Yes,” Chrysalis laughed.

“Hehe.” Coco then went to Chrysalis’ right side to adjust her dress. “It is nice to work for you.”

“Even though I am a changeling?”

The pony let out a soft sigh. “It has nothing to do with you being anything. Sometimes it’s not what you work for, but who you work for.”

Chrysalis turned her head toward the pony. “Explain what you mean.”

With the dress now fully on Chrysalis, Coco said, “Lower your head and turn into Your Majesty.” Chrysalis complied with the pony’s order. As the queen changed into the lovely white unicorn she will be disguised as, her mane flowed like a river of blonde cream. Coco then began to add the golden medieval to Chrysalis’ mane.

“So, you were saying?” the queen asked.

“Right. So let me put it to you this way: let’s say I am working for a multi-million bit company. I am among the best of the best in the fashion industry.” Coco fluffed Chrysalis’ mane and made it less messy with a comb. “However, the one who manages my team is a horrible manager. He treats us like manure, does not complement or promote anypony, takes all the credit. Things like that.”

“Sounds like your old boss.”

“Yeah…”

Coco took a step back and admired how her dress looked upon the queen. The white and blue diamonds were such a lovely compliment and the gold trim at not just the hem of the dress, but all of it. And the golden visor. It glistened with the light that shined through the large glass window.

“Do you… think my dress is fit for a queen.”

Chrysalis stepped in front of the mirror and began to admire herself. She spun around and looked at how amazing the colors fit her unicorn color scheme. “Your dress fits more than a queen.” Looking to Coco Pommel, Chrysalis said with a smile, “It fits your friend perfectly.”

The pony’s heart was suddenly flooded with emotions. Her eyes were glazed with salty tears as they beaded at the edge of her two light-blue orbs. Coco sniffled and scratched her right cheek as a tear tickled it while it ran down her face.

Using her magic, Chrysalis pulled the mare to her and hugged her closely. Coco didn’t budge, nor comply back with an embrace of her own. She did muster up to say, “Thank- you.”

“Your welcome.”

Suddering, Coco Pommel began to sob happily in her friend’s arm. Chrysalis had to fight back tears. She had cried a few days prior to this event and would rather not let out anymore emotions as much as needed.

“I- I- never thought I would find somepon- I m-mean somechangeling who I would love to work with. With Suri, I was miserable! I hated working for her. She turned my passion, my dream into a nightmare! And- and you-”

“Turned it into a dream?”

Coco couldn’t answer that question aloud. The pony was too overwhelmed with happiness and her throat hurt. She had to wait a minute before speaking again. “Thank you. Thank you for letting Fang seek out a tailor and having him find me. Thank you for the riches you are paying me in. Thank you for… being my friend. Thank you. Thank you.”

“Thank you Chrysalis…”

And with those last words, Coco finally wrapped her arms around Chrysalis’ neck for a close hug.

KNOCK KNOCK!

At the sound of the door being hit with a hoof, both mares turned to see Inferno Fang standing at the entrance of the room. “Am I interrupting?” he asked as his massive weapon loomed over him in his grasp. Fang then noticed Coco’s tears. Immediately, he placed his scythe against the wall and briskly walked over to the pony. “Coco, are you alright?!”

“I’m fine,” Coco choked as she smiled, happy to see her another friend.

“She is just happy to have us close to her,” Chrysalis spoke. “She is happy with who she works for.”

“Good,” Fang sighed with relief. “So why did you want me to get my scythe?”

Coco broke her contact with Chrysalis. “Yes, why did you want him to get it?”

“Come stand beside me Fang with your weapon,” Chrysalis ordered, ignoring her friend’s question.

“Of course my queen.” Lifting his scythe with magic, Fang brought the large blade over to him. Coco felt the need to duck, afraid it might hit her head. Or worse.

Getting a good grip of it, he stood beside his queen in front of the mirror. Chrysalis smiled widely. “You and I look wonderful together.” Fang couldn’t disagree as he stared at his own reflection.

Turning to Coco, Chrysalis said, “You’re designs will definitely win the contest.”

“Thank you,” the pony giggled with delight. She stared at Chrysalis and Fang with a happy smile. She was proud of herself with her work and now couldn’t wait for tomorrow. Coco turned to see all of her other dresses she had made. Pride burned in her chest like a hot furnace. A feeling she has not felt in a while.

But then her eyes fell upon the turquoise dress. Coco looked at it with wonder, asking herself why it is even there.

“Something on your mind Coco?” the queen asked from behind her friend.

The pony’s eyes didn’t move from the dress, but she was startled by Chrysalis’ sudden voice. “It’s that dress,” Coco pointed. “Why is it even there?”

“Isn’t it obvious? It’s yours.”

Chrysalis’ statement tore Coco’s eyes from the outfit. “Excuse me?”

“I commissioned Suri to make you a dress for the Grand Galloping Gala. Think of it as a gift.”

A large smile slowly grew on Coco Pommel’s face. Wasting no time, the mare ran over to the rolling rack and took the dress, dressing herself.

After a short moment, Coco was in the cream-colored dress. And then she walked in front of the mirror; Fang moved out of her way, knowing she was eager to look at her reflection. What Coco saw was a lovely pony in what she would describe as blueberries and cream.

Chrysalis then came into the mirror. “You look lovely.”

“Hehe.” Looking to her friend, Coco blushed and said, “Thank you.”

“What do you think, Fang?” Chrysalis asked.

Walking over to the two mares, he looked at Coco Pommel in awe. “Your beauty rivals the queen’s.” A rough clear of the throat came from Chrysalis as she glared at him. “O-only very slightly. Nothing can compare to your lovely stature my queen.”

“Much better.”

A bump pushed into Chrysalis’ ribcage. “You don’t have to be like that,” Coco smirked.

“I am a queen,” Chrysalis boasted. “Your Princess Celestia does not have the title queen. Therefore, higher title, higher beauty.”

Coco could only roll her eyes and continue staring at herself. Something was not right with how she looked. Was it the dress? No. It was perfect. Was it her mane? No. It was too short to be altered. A needed accessory? Yes. That what was missing. But what could be used?

“I know!” Coco said aloud.

Chrysalis and Fang looked at each other with confusion, not sure what to make of the sudden exclamation.

Coco walked over to her worktable and took the pink rose that rested on it ever so nicely. Then returning to the mirror, the mare placed the flower by her left ear. It twitched at it slightly scratched her temple. But once it was nice and secure, Coco Pommel was now fully pleased with how she looked.

“Where… did you get that rose?” Chrysalis asked as she noticed the accessory.

“Oh, Fang picked it from the garden.”

Enrages, the changeling queen stomped over to the guard. “You did WHAT?!” Her voice boomed so loud that it cracked the mirror and caused Coco to shriek.

“M-my q-q-queen,” Fang stuttered in fear, “I th-thought maybe one rose wouldn’t hurt.”

“That garden is in memory of my beloved daughter, not for picking flowers. I don’t suppose you took a tulip from her grave as well!”

In his defence, Coco stepped in between Chrysalis and Fang. “Hey, no need to get hostel.” Her words, however, did not change Chrysalis’ attitude. Thinking of something fast, Coco said, “Think about it this way: every time you see my rose, remember how happy she made you and how she raised a caterpillar and watched it grow. Just like you did when you watched her grow.”

Quickly, the ice-queen’s cold temper began to melt.

Looking to the pony, Queen Chrysalis looked at the rose and smiled. “Yeah, I should.” Satisfied with herself and how everything played out, the queen began to remove her dress. She looked at Coco, wanting her friend to help take the dress off. After Chrysalis was undressed, she said, “You are free to do whatever you want, Coco. Thank you for all of your help.”

“Your welcome,” Coco smiled. Both mares gave an exchange of hugs. The queen sniffed the sweet love out of the air, enjoying her simple meal.

“I will be leaving now,” Chrysalis said in a low tone.

“Okay,” Coco replied. The pony now began to take her dress as well. Noticing her friend’s vision was blocked, Chrysalis looked at Fang with a harsh glare.

Remember: Do not become too attached, the queen blinked. It WILL hurt more in the end.

Fang nodded.

And with that, Queen Chrysalis left. Looking to the mare, Fang saw Coco shake her head a little, her hair slightly messy. She then placed her dress on a hanger, then the rack.

“So, what would you like to do now?” Fang asked.

Coco hummed aloud, thinking about the question. “Perhaps a bath would be nice. I would love to be clean for tomorrow.”

“I could heat the water at the falls. Would you like me to bathe with you?” Realizing what he said, Fang’s face flushed with color. Coco Pommel blushed, smiled, and looked away from her friend.

“If you like,” she responded shyly.

An awkward silence lingered in the air as the two stood in each other’s presence. Fang glanced around, wondering what to say. When his eyes looked at the door, he noticed it was cracked open. And somechangeling was staring through the crack.

Fang used magic to open the door. lo and behold, Scar Splash stood at the entrance of the room.

Challenge

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Who You Work For
Ch. 29

Both stallions looked at each other with harsh stares. Coco Pommel looked at the door as she heard it open. And when her eyes fell upon Scar Splash, a cold shiver ran down Coco’s spine.

“Why are you spying on us like rat ready to scurry after a scrap of bread?” Fang asked almost speaking through his teeth.

“That pony is making you soft,” Scar Splash spoke, ignoring the changeling’s question. Coco’s eyes darted between both males, wondering what is going to happen next.

“You think I am growing soft?”

“By hearing how that pony is your love bug, I would say so.”

Fang’s horn began to glow red. Suddenly, the blade of his scythe was engulfed in flames. “If I make your head roll, would you still consider me soft?”

Scar shook his head in disappointment, then creased his brow. “Look at yourself!” he shouted. “Getting worked up over a simple comment and over a pony!” Even though he didn’t want to, Fang looked at the cracked mirror. His eyes were filled with anger and his tooth was red hot. But what stood out within his reflection was that he was still disguised as a pony; a crimson-red unicorn.

“My choice is my own!” Fang barked back.

“And that pony is a poison to us all!”

A rush of fear crashed over Coco. She was worried not only a conflict was about to erupt, but was afraid that another trip off the ledge was in order. The scythe may have caused Coco some discomfort, but she felt safe behind Fang. So she then stood behind her friend, knowing he would protect her.

“Coco Pommel is a friend to the queen,” Fang spoke. “Are you saying the queen is growing soft as well?”

“Yes, I do.”

Fang had heard enough. He stomped toward Scar Splash, insulted that the changeling would say such a thing about Queen Chrysalis. “How DARE you speak about our beloved queen that way!”

Scar Splash did nothing to retaliate toward Fang’s action. All he did was stand still.

“STOP IT!” Coco screamed, her throat ripping as she yelled.

Fang halted his movement, though he still wanted to obliterate Scar Splash for challenging Queen Chrysalis’ rule. Thumping the butt of his weapon on the ground, Fang’s scythe lost its flame; however, it still burned red hot from the fire.

“You,” Scar Splash spoke coldly as he looked to Coco. The pony shivered violently as he gazed at her. “You are being used by the queen for her own personal gain. You are no friend to her. You are a fool to think for a second that Queen Chrysalis would want be a friend of yours.”

“How… do you know that?” Coco Pommel asked.

“I have an idea...” Scar Splash turned around. “Oh, and Fang is lying about his friendship to you.”

“SHUT UP!” Fang roared. He almost began to walk forward again, but felt a touch on his shoulder. The changeling looked to see Coco Pommel staring at him with frightened and sad eyes.

“You will see, Fang.” Both Coco and Fang glanced at the back of Scar Splash as he walked away.

“Wretched freak…” Fang spoke through his teeth. He slammed the door and placed his weapon against the wall using telepathy. A sigh of air rushed out of the changeling’s nostrils.

In his peripheral, Fang saw Coco Pommel walk away from him and over to the large window. She stared up at the sky in silence. Knowing his friend was in pain, Fang approached slowly.

“Coco, are you okay?” he asked calmly.

The mare looked at him with worry and sadness. “No… no I am not.” Knowing it is the only thing he can do, Fang lifted up one of his forelegs as an offering for an embrace. Seeing the opportunity, Coco Pommel scooted over to him and pressed her side into him. Her dress made the pony a bit uncomfortable as it scrunched against her as she leaned into Fang.

“Don’t you believe a single word he said. He is a liar. I care about you. The queen cares about you. Other changelings care about you. The children-”

“I know,” Coco spoke. “I just... want it to be quiet for a bit.”

“Do you need to be alone?”

She turned her head and stared at the handsome changeling who still wore his unicorn facade. “I’d rather be with somechangeling who cares about me.”

A rush of love bloomed out of Coco Pommel. If it was a poison, it would suffocate and kill Inferno Fang. It was so sweet and delicious to the changeling. Knowing it is the only thing he can do, he leaned his head forward and placed his forehead on Coco Pommel’s. The mare’s cheeks blushed brightly, taken slightly aback by Fang’s action. But despite what he did, any worries, any fears, any doubts she was feeling was gone. In reply of his choice, she lifted up her snout, and touched Fang’s.

It was perfect moment of silence. Nothing else had to be said. Only their bodies spoke. They stood for an unknown amount of time as their foreheads remained in contact. Besides, Coco nor Fang had anything important to do, so they might as well enjoy the time being.

They looked into each other’s eyes, locked and focused. Coco was about to ask if Fang was alright with what was happening, but thought otherwise. As if they were the same being, both pony and changeling closed their eyes.

BUMP BUMP.

In an instant, Fang and Coco’s eyes shot open, wondering what sound that was. When they saw what, or rather who made the sound, they stepped back in embarrassment.

Outside on the balcony was Sea More, smiling.

The Strongest Freak

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Who You Work For
Ch. 30

Neither Coco nor Fang could think of anything to do while Sea More spied on them. “Hey,” he spoke with his voice muffled as he stood outside. Coco gave a little wave, not sure what else to do. As for Fang, he gave his changeling friend a hard stare.

Walking inside, Sea More asked with a grin, “What’s with the look?”

“You are the second to spy on us,” Fang replied. “I'm not very fond of playing the prey role at the moment.”

“Second?” Sea More looked to Coco and raised a brow. “Who was the first?”

The pony hesitated to speak, afraid he may show up if she mentioned his name.

A mean expression sprouted from Fang’s face as his large tooth turned hot. “Scar Splash.”

Almost replicating his friend’s expression without the large hot fang, Sea More became angered. “What was he doing here?”

“Spying and spreading lies.”

Not wanting to be near the upset stallions, Coco walked over to her desk and sat down. All she wanted was some peace and quiet; she also didn't want to think about or hear the mention of Scar Splash.

“Can you two talk outside please?” Coco asked without looking at the two. “I want there to be silence for a bit.”

Fang and Sea More looked at each other and nodded. “Anything for the questionmare,” Sea More commented playfully. Fang threw a hard jab to Sea More’s shoulder. The changeling grunted with a chuckle.

“If you need anything,” Fang spoke, “we will be outside on the balcony.”

“And we will make sure Scar Splash won't throw you off-”

“Shut up!” Fang yelled as he punched Sea More hard in the chest.

The pain was too much for the changeling and he keeled over in pain. Fang looked at Coco, watching her as she stared at her wooden desk. He frowned, wanting to go over and help her. But her request was something Fang wanted to abide by. Gripping Sea More’s tail, the changeling pulled and dragged his friend along the ground to the outside ledge.

“I can't I have any amount of fun?” Sea More coughed. Coco didn't hear an answer from Fang.

As if enough was on her mind, Coco Pommel now had to worry about a changeling that is probably out to get her.

Why does he hate me? Coco asked herself. I did nothing wrong to him…

She folded her arms on her desk and rested her forehead on them. Coco’s body rose then fell after a long, heavy sigh.

Is what he is saying true? Is Chrysalis really lying to- No! Stop it! The pony shook her head violently, removing the negative questions from her mind all together. Why would Chrysalis ever lie to you now? She told you the story of her daughter’s death and why she hates Princess Celestia. If you didn't mean anything to her, then… why would Chrysalis trust you with such valuable information?

Looking to the window, Coco saw Sea More and Fang conversing. Fang was swinging his arms around as if trying to punch something; perhaps shadow-boxing a beaten up Scar Splash. Sea More nodded and spoke silent words.

Then, as if they could feel her gaze, both changelings turned and looked at Coco Pommel.

Coco looked away and back to the table. And think about them. Think about Sea More and him being a halfling. Think about Fang and his comfort. Think about Silky Magot, and Stitch Snitch, and Knight Cap, and Silver Liner, and Snackrifice… Maybe Snack? Maybe him as well.

And what about the children? If Coco could describe what a mental brain freeze was like, now would have been the time. All of her thoughts froze on that one simple fact. It was as plain as day. How could they all lie to Coco all at once? It didn't seem plausible. They were kids. Innocent. Harmless. And cute. A smile crawled onto Coco’s face as she thought about the adorable changelings. How she first met them. And how they convinced her to help the hive. The mare looked up at the ceiling, happy to remember all those who were kind to her and being very accepting.

Who knows why Scar Splash did what he did. He is probably miscible and alone. Or maybe something in the past happened to him.

But what eased Coco’s mind was that the positives outweighed the negatives by a massive margin. Coco had many friends now, Chrysalis was being very generous on many levels, and…

…Coco also had Fang, a friend that she could always rely on.

Then another thought came to the mare’s mind; about Scar Splash. She wondered what will happen to him once Chrysalis hears about him spying and challenging her rule. It worried Coco, but in a different way; a way she never thought she would ever feel; she worried for Scar Splash. Chrysalis was queen, rightfully so. What might become of him?

Coco knew her friend had a heart, but has also seen Chrysalis’ angry side. Who knows how angry that changeling could get.

With her mind cleared of worry, Coco Pommel took in a deep breath and stood up, adjusting her dress so that it doesn't get wrinkled. Wondering what the two stallions were up to, the mare looked to the window and saw something… strange.

Fang had his hooves on Sea More’s throat and was shaking him. Fang had a sinister grin on his face as Sea More wore a goofy, “No, stop choking me,” face. Fang then stopped and the changelings began to laugh.

Coco couldn't help but giggle herself, amused by their strange behavior. She then got out of her dress and placed it on the hanger and hung it on the rack with the others.

She went over to the window and knocked on it. Both stallions turned their attention toward her and smiled, happy to see her mood in a better one. They spoke a few words and then went back inside.

“Glad to see you smiling,” Sea More spoke.

“Thanks,” Coco replied. She looked at Fang who only grinned back. “So… Can I still bathe at the spring?”

***

Coco Pommel did as she did before when Fang was walking her to the spring: close against the wall. This time, however, it was during the day. She was able to see a forest stretch for miles and miles and made her wonder how far the hive was from civilization.

Sea More buzzed nearby as Coco and Fang walked along the path to the pool. Fang was no longer dressed or pony. Even though he could disguise as anypony, Fang preferred being his normal self.

“You two love bugs enjoying your walk together?” Sea More called out.

“I’d be better if I knocked you out of the sky,” Fang grunted.

“Don't be mean,” Coco scolded Fang as she frowned at him.

“Trust me,” Fang continued, “Sea More’s sarcastic attitude has almost gotten himself killed by the queen. Several times in fact.”

“It's true,” Sea More answered as he rubbed the back of his skull. “I really cannot help it.”

“Why not?” the mare asked.

“I somehow feel like I have to input on everything. I am half pony after all. Perhaps I’m a rebel at heart, though I don't want to. And besides, I AM the strongest warrior.”

“Here he goes,” Fang rolled his eyes.

“I have proven to be the best combat instructor this hive has ever known. Queen Chrysalis herself has deemed me the most impressive.”

“Have you ever fought anypony before?” Coco asked.

“Emm… not really…” Sea More frowned. But then his ears perked up. “But I have defeated every changeling who I have trained with in a dual. Even Fang. The supposed personal guard beaten by a trainer.”

“Yes you have...” Fang sighed, letting Sea More inflate his ego.

Coco gave thought to Sea More’s statement. “But did Fang use his fire abilities during the dual?”

“N...no,” Sea More answered. “Just normal weapons.”

“Then wouldn't that make you the best combat and dual expert and not strongest warrior?” The pony looked at Fang. “I mean, I don't doubt your abilities Sea More, but I think Fang here has much more power compared to what I have seen out of you.”

“You don't know that!” Sea More barked back, feeling his abilities being challenged.

“Then can you show me your special powers?”

A moment of silence. The only sounds that could be heard was the wind whistling through the rocky cliff and Sea More’s wings as he buzzed through the air. “You ask too many questions…” Sea More folded his arms, frustrated with the realization that he wasn't the strongest.

“Hehe,” Fang chuckled. “I can't wait to tell the others about this. The supposed strongest of all changelings now convinced he is just a master of dueling and training.”

At the corner of her eye, Coco Pommel saw a mischievous look on Sea More’s face. “Says the changeling who had a crush on my mother.”

A beam of green energy shot from Fang’s horn, nearly grazing the airborne changeling. “I wasn't kidding when I said I would like to knock you out of the sky.”

Sea More looked unfazed. “Least your aim needs work. Might I train you in better accuracy? I can also help control your temper, hot head.”

Fang began to aim a much more accurate shot when Coco harshly cleared her throat and gave him a serious look. “What, he started it!”

“You don't always have to use violence after being angered. You don't see me trying to shoot beams from my eyes when I am angry.”

“That’ll be the day,” Fang snorted. Coco bumped into the stallion playfully. “And here I thought you don't use violence.”

“Oh please…”

Sea More laughed, amused by their childish bickering and almost forgetting about his realization that he was not the strongest. Looking ahead, the changeling saw the spring. “We are coming up close now.”

***

It was quiet the rest of the way until the three arrived at the pool. Coco looked at the water with anticipation, knowing she is happy she can get a hot bath. After all, she is a royal guest and friend to the queen. Coco Pommel briskly walked over to the water and dabbed her hoof into the liquid. It was very cold at the touch and refused to put any more of her body into the water.

Fang came into Coco’s peripheral and flew up into the air, then landed in the center of the natural lake. In an instant, the liquid puffed hot steam up into the sky. “Come on in,” the changeling invited.

Without warning, Sea More jumped into the hot water with a splash. Coco flinched as droplets came in contact with her body; thankfully it was not cold. Taking her time, the mare slowly walked into the pool. It was hot at first, but Coco wanted to quickly have her body used to the the water, so she sank all but head into the warm fluid.

A sigh, and then a smile. Coco was happy. She was happy with the current situation at hoof. Everything was ready for the gala, her friend, Queen Chrysalis was happy, and she also glad to clean herself in hot water.

Looking to Sea More and Fang, they sat next to each other, talking. Coco might have been able to hear them if it weren’t for the falls cascading water into the pool. Not wanting to be all by herself, the mare wadded through the water and went to them.

“Enjoying the heat?” Sea More asked.

Another sigh escaped Coco Pommel. “Oh yes!” She sank down further and submerged her lips below the surface, lightly blowing bubbles.

“I’m glad you are enjoying yourself,” Fang smiled.

“If I ever have my water heater die on me at home, I’ll make sure to give you a call.”

“I am the personal guard of Queen Chrysalis, not some commoner who slaves away at simple tasks.”

Coco gave him a look that said, “You did not just say that.”

“You do remember that I worked at a coffee shop, slaving away at making simple beverages.” Fang stuttered over his words, trying to retract his statement, but realized he can’t undo what was just said. The pony then grinned, “And I am sure that there are commoners here at the hive who go and obtain love so you can be fed. You are nothing without the commoner. Respect them.”

“I- meant no offence,” Fang finally mustered.

“I know,” Coco smiled happily. “I am just teasing you.”

The large fanged changeling grunted, knowing he was being messed with. “You really are easy to mess with,” Sea More commented.

“At least I am not being mean to him.” Coco then moved in on Fang and pecked him on the cheek. His tooth glowed brightly and cheeks blushed as he took in a deep breath, sucking in as much love a he can. “He is just a stallion who is a little more sensitive is all.”

You are lucky that I know you feed me out of the kindness of your friendship, Fang thought to himself. Otherwise, I would think you are just toying with my heart. You are also lucky that I… care a lot about you.

Sea More smiled at his long-time friend, which only made Fang even more embarrassed. Seeing how her friend was uncomfortably flustered, Coco wanted to get the spotlight off of him.

“So Sea More,” Coco asked, “how did you become the best duelist?”

“You wish to know more about me?” Sea More looked away and smiled. “I'm glad that you do.”

“What do you mean?”

The changeling sighed before answering, “Even when you asked Fang about me before, it made me feel… wanted.” He swallowed something in his throat. “Throughout my whole life, I have been looked at and called a freak.”

“How come?”

“He is a halfling,” Fang answered.

Sea More nodded, confirming that the changeling was correct. “When I was living with my mother and when I showed my fellow pony friends I was a changeling… Well, you can guess what happened.” Coco didn't answer with words; she nodded instead.

“And when Chrysalis took me in and I told other changelings I was part pony, they looked at me in disgust…” Sea More's ears retreated back. Even with his sinister scar that was slashed horizontally across the right eye, Coco could see he was bothered with his past.

“When Fang told me you wanted to know about me…” The changeling turned and smiled at the pony. “...I couldn't contain how happy I was. Somepony didn't see me for being a changeling, but as me.”

Coco shrugged, “I just wanted to know. And when I did find out that you were half pony and half changeling, it made sense why you were so kind to me.”

“And that's why it makes me happy to know that a pony wants to know about a freak like me!”

“You are not a freak Sea More,” Coco shook her head as the changeling insulted himself.

“I agree,” Fang spoke aloud. “You are different yes, but you are part of us. Just being half of something makes you apart of that other self. I told you this before. What also makes you unique, Sea More, is how you define yourself with what you have.” Fang grinned widely. “You are the idiot who changed my heart toward ponies after all.”

“I guess there are two of you who respect me for being me,” Sea More spoke. His gaze fell upon Coco. “I remember the morning when we went to Canterlot and you told me you wanted to know about me. I'll be honest, it was hard to contain myself. And now, I trust you with my feelings.”

“Hehe, thanks for having faith in me.” Coco moved to Sea More and wrapped an arm around the changeling. “I trust you too.” The changeling glanced at Fang and bounced his eyebrows. Sea More could see a slight hint of jealousy in Fang’s eyes and knew if the affection proceeded any further, the queen’s personal guard would boil him alive. Lucky for Sea More, Coco quickly let go and scooted away from him.

“So how did you two become friends?” Coco asked.

“Well, which question do you want me to answer?” Sea More asked. “You asked me how I became the best duelist. So which do you want to know first?”

“Umm… the first question I asked.”

“Okay, good,” Sea More sighed. “Because within that first question is the story of how Fang and I became friends.”

“Couldn't you just tell me they are a part of the same thing?”

“Heh, you ask too many questions,” the changeling snickered. Fang let out a chuckle as he saw the mare get slightly irritated. “Anyways, my story.”

“Yes,” Coco grumbled, “your story.”

With a clear of his throat, Sea More began.

Across the Eye

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Who You Work For
Ch. 31

“When I first came to combat training, I was determined to be the best fighter the changeling hive has ever known,” Sea More began. “Before I was old enough to train, I was made fun of and shunned because of me being a halfling.”

“You didn't have any friends?” Coco frowned.

“Nope.”

“Aww…”

But Sea More shook his head. “No need to be sad about my past.” He glanced at Fang before resuming. “Anyways, my first day in combat training, my instructor was…” Sea More huffed hot air from his nostrils. “...Scar Splash…”

The name alone made the mare’s spine shiver. The one who suppressed with fear unto Coco was also the training instructor for Sea More?!

She clearly saw how angry Sea More was as the changeling stared at his reflection in anger. Sea More pointed at his scar. “You see this?” The pony nodded. “That freak did this to me the first day of training as an example of those who care about ponies!”

Coco swallowed, “How old were you when that happened?”

“Teenager,” Sea More grunted. “But that still didn't make what he did right.” He glanced at Fang. “You remember what he did, yes?”

“How could I forget,” Fang frowned and looked at Coco. “Scar Splash asked all the changelings there if we cared about ponies and we all said ‘no.’ That is, all but one.” Coco didn't need to ask who that “one” was; she knew who the subject matter was. “When Sea More told Scar Splash he cared about ponies, Scar used the spear he was holding and slashed it across his face…”

“That's horrible…” was the only thing Coco could muster up. Flashes of the past traumatic event that Scar Splash put her through ran through her mind. Was he that cruel?

“While Sea More was… hurt,” Fang resumed, “Scar Splash told everychangeling that ponies leave scars. They bring us hurt. They don't want us. So we must all stay together as kin.”

“I hate him, Sea More hissed. “I… hate him!”

This was a new character Coco had never seen out of Sea More. She didn't see just anger, but rage. Rage that was pent up and has yet to be unleashed. Coco couldn't blame him.

Fang placed a hoof on his friend’s shoulder. Sea More let out a heavy sigh, but held onto his angry face.

“From that day forward, Scar Splash treated me bitterly,” Sea More spoke. “Everyday of training was full of grueling pain, aching muscles, and a beaten spirit. He tried to force my care for ponies out of me. But when I refused, that was more conditioning for me.”

A smile slowly crawled onto Sea More’s face. “It's funny, despite his hard training and punishments, my character never changed. Or rather, my care for ponies never subsided. What did change was my ability to take a beating. It takes a lot to bring me down. Then one day…”

Coco saw Fang smile. “This is the best part of the story,” he told her. “You will like what happens next.” The mare didn't know how to respond. All she did was continue listening.

“When I came into training- oh, and this is years after being trained by Scar Trash.” Coco’s ears twitched when the word “trash” was spoken. “So one day, I was training on a dummy when I was struck in the head with a spear shaft. Of course, ol and behold, Scar was the one who hit me. He began his routine on trying to for force the pony loving side out of me and swung for my head again. Not wanting to deal with another blow to the head, I disarmed him and struck Scar in the temple.”

The anger in Sea More’s face began to subside. “I told him that I was fed up with his conditioning and challenged him to a duel. He accepted. The rule of this duel was to disarm the opponent with no other special powers involved. He chose to stick with his spear. I chose a sword and shield.” Sea More shook his head. “Within seconds at the start of the duel, I sliced his spearhead from his weapon and knocked the shaft from his grip.”

“It was impressive to watch,” Fang agreed. “Sea More really is a sword master.”

“After embarrassing him, I told him to never strike me again.” Sea More shrugged. “And then he had to be a sore loser and tried to attack me when my back was turned. I easily turned him on his back and held my sword to Scar’s throat…”

“And… you didn't kill him,” Coco spoke up.

“Correct…” Sea More suddenly looked confused. “As I stood over him, he smiled at me sincerely. I remember the words he spoke to me.”

“What did he say,” the mare asked.

“‘I'm proud of you…’” The changeling was quiet for a moment. “To this day I don't know why he told me that… But still, after he got up, Scar’s old attitude returned, telling me he still hates my attitude toward ponies.” He then smiled. “When word got to Queen Chrysalis that I had defeated Scar Splash in a duel, she wanted to watch us do a rematch. The victor was obvious. My skill surprised the queen so much, she graced me with not only being the combat trainer, but also saw me as the best dueler the hive has ever seen!” Taking in a deep breath, Sea More looked at Fang with a cocky grin. “Why don't you tell her the rest? I am done talking about myself.”

“What is there to tell?” Fang asked.

“Tell her about us.”

Both changelings nodded at the suggestion. “Sure. I'll do just that.”

Coco adjusted herself as she was now more interested in the story about Sea More and Fang than Scar Splash and his mean nature.

“I'm glad we are done talking about Scar,” Coco admitted.

“Same,” Fang agreed with a simple nod. “I'm not happy with what-” Coco didn't want anymore words to be said about the changeling and placed her hoof over Fang’s mouth.

“Can you tell the story about you and Sea More?” Coco asked, now wanting the subject to change.

“And there goes the question,” Sea More commented right before he submerged himself underwater, then swimming away.

“Where do I begin,” Fang spoke in a low tone. “When Sea More and I first met, we were at combat training.” He could tell Coco was not in the mood to hear about Scar Splash; it was written all over her face. “We won't be talking about him.” It was hard to believe, but Coco felt that Fang was telling the truth.

“So, the first day of training was a rough one on Sea More. After our first day was finished, I stopped him from walking back to his hole and asked him why he just didn't submit and lie to…” Coco raised a brow, remembering that Fang said he wouldn't mention you-know-who. “...the trainer.” The mare’s attitude changed and was now listening intently.

“I asked where he was from because I never saw him around, and Sea More told me he was brought into the hive by Chrysalis. I asked if he had any parents here in the hive. Sea More then said that he lives alone.”

Coco Pommel gave a sincere gasp. “Aww, that's so sad.” The pony’s ears went back, upset that Sea More was most likely a loner most of his life.

“It was upsetting yes,” Fang agreed. He glanced around to see where Sea More has gone off to and saw him paddling through the water. “I told Sea More that if I could, he can live in my hole with my family.”

“Did he end up living with you?”

Fang shook his head. “No. All Sea More asked of me is to be his friend and listen to why he cares about ponies. It didn't seem harmful to know why he did. And it was interesting to my child self that Sea More was a halfling as I called him. So, from that day forward, he and I became friends.” The changeling smiled. “Funny, despite all he told me about ponies and how nice they can be, I never thought there would be a pony who would understand us.”

Coco giggled, “Are you referring to me?”

“No.”

“No?” Coco was confused. “Are you saying… that another pony made you like ponies?”

Fang began to look flustered. “Yeah… She was quite the pony.”

Something inside Coco’s heart made her dislike this mare. It wasn't like she was jealous of the pony, it's just Coco didn't like that it was a mare that changed his view on them.

“Who was it?” Coco asked in a bit of a gruff, trying to be obvious that she didn't want to hear anymore of the story.

“Star Fisher. Sea More’s mother.”

“What?!” Coco leaned in toward Fang, now even more interested. “How? When? Did-”

Fang held up a hoof to stop the question bombardment. He looked nervous about answering the question. “It's an embarrassing story to be honest.”

“But that makes me want to know more about this story,” Coco smirked.

Something touched Fang’s shoulder and caused him to flinch. Snapping his neck, the changeling saw Sea More standing from behind. “If you won't tell her, I will,” he spoke.

“Fine…” he grunted, lowering his head in shame.

The mare couldn't help but chuckle. “What is so embarrassing about Fang meeting your mother Sea More?”

Sea More chuckled a bit, looking at his flustered friend. “You remember when Fang shot at me when I told him, ‘Says the one who had a crush on my mother?’”

“You are right!” The pony could not believe that statement had eluded her so easily. Even she knows she would have asked Fang about that by now. Smirking, Coco leaned in toward her large toothed friend. “When was this?”

Wanting to be left alone, Fang submerged his entire head under water. Coco and Sea More could not help but laugh at their sensitive friend. “Aww, poor Fang,” the mare spoke, patting his shoulder.

Fang surfaced his head after feeling his attention is needed. “What?” he grunted, his ears pointed back. “If you keep embarrassing me, I will boil you alive.”

But that statement only antagonized the mare. Coco leaned forward, pressing her snout on Fang’s. “Go ahead.” Fang could take it no longer. He flew away from the two hecklers and went behind the waterfall. Coco then regretted her teasing. “I think I went a little too far…” she frowned.

“He just needs to cool off,” Sea More reassured. “Anyways, would you like to hear the rest of the story of Fang and my mother?”

Coco couldn’t deny that she was interested. “Sure. But let’s not make fun of Fang anymore.”

“I’ll do it for your sake.” Sea More had to think for a moment before he started his story. “So when Fang and I were teenagers, I asked my queen if I could visit my mother. At the time, it has been years.”

“Were you not able to go because of restriction?” Coco asked.

“No. Because Chrysalis has a large amount of respect for my mother, the queen had no rejections with me seeing her. The problem was was that I was too young to fly long distances. As I got older, my abilities obviously increased. When the day came for me to go see my mother, I brought Fang along. He was a bit hesitant on coming because of the hatred for ponies was drilled into his head.”

“I thought you told Fang that ponies are good,” the mare commented.

“I did, but that still was not enough to convince him. I wanted to use my visit with my mother as a means to change his mind.”

Coco let a smile grow on her face. “And it worked, didn’t it?” The changeling nodded in agreement. “How did Fang grow to like your mother?”

“It was interesting to watch,” Sea More admitted with a smile. “My mother was extremely friendly to Fang. When her love fed him, it shocked Fang. He never knew that ponies could direct love at changelings, nor did he ever think there was a pony who liked changelings. And when we left my mother’s home he-” Sea More couldn’t help but laugh. The changeling was having a difficult time keeping his composure.

“What? What?!” Coco wanted Sea More to continue. She demanded that she hears the rest of the story.

“S-sorry, hehe,” the changeling replied. “It’s just- always funny. Alright, so when he and I were flying back, Fang asked if we could see my mother sometime soon.” Once again, Sea More resumed his laughing.

Coco let out a chuckle as well. “That’s cute.”

“I’ll admit,” Sea More spoke, it was weird to see my friend have a crush on my mother. But it was nice to see him appreciate ponies after that.”

“I am glad to hear that you did convince him,” Coco said as she looked at the waterfall, wondering if Fang was still behind it. “He is one of my best friends. And I just met him. But still, he is quite something.” Another chuckle escaped Coco’s voice box. “I wouldn’t be surprised if your mother had a crush on Fang as well.”

For once, Sea More looked disgusted. “I would not like that actually…”

“Why not?”

“Just… imagine that they do get together. Then everytime I see Fang, I have to say, ‘Hey dad,’ or something like that.”

The thought made Coco want to retract her statement. “Now that you mention it, it would be strange.”

With the story finished, Coco Pommel quickly dipped her head underwater just so she can soak her mane. Looking back at the waterfall, then back to Sea More, the mare spoke, “I’m going to check on Fang.”

“Go on ahead,” Sea More answered, gesturing toward the cascading liquid.

As Coco went over to the falls, she noticed how the water was getting cooler. It was quite refreshing considering she was in the hot water for quite some time. After rounding the moving wall of liquid, Fang was sitting by himself.

“Feels like dejavu,” he commented as the changeling gazed upon Coco.

“I cannot disagree,” the mare admitted. She approached him and sat beside him. “Are you okay?”

“I am calmed down now.”

“About me or Sea More-”

“Everything,” he spoke bluntly. “I am calmed down about everything.” The pony knew what he meant. She could only assume how Fang was feeling within the last few hours, with not only herself and Sea More heckling him, but how Scar was behaving toward him and her.

Since he was on her mind, Coco asked, “What do you think is going to happen to Scar?”

“I could care less about him.” Fang then turned his eyes onto Coco. “I have a question for you though.”

“Ask away.”

A nervous grin found its way on Fang’s lips. “It… may seem silly but…” Coco was curious as to why her friend was acting so strangely. “...do you really want to dance with me tomorrow at the gala?”

If Coco had a mirror, she would have seen that she had duplicated Fang’s smile. “I wouldn’t mind,” she answered while looking away. “I’ve never danced though…”

“Neither have I,” Fang admitted. “But I have observed the queen enough to know how to dance with a partner.”

“Can you show me?”

Fang blushed upon the request. “How about tomorrow?”

“Sure,” Coco answered. Letting out a sigh, she said, “I think I am done with bathing today.”

“Alright,” Fang answered with a nod.

***

“So, this is it…” Queen Chrysalis sat on her bed having a difficult time sleeping. The day she had been looking forward to as well as dreading it was just around the corner. The only thing keeping the changeling comfortable was the darkness from the night. Chrysalis knew tomorrow was going to be a difficult one, knowing she was going to have to be around Princess Celestia.

Peering through the blanket of black, the queen looked out her window from her bed, thinking about her friend. She thinks about how Coco was willing to help her kind and how selfless the pony is. Not only that, but Coco wants to try and have her to talk to Celestia about her hatred toward her.

But why would the princess who raises the sun want to create a pact with a monstrous race? The only reason why Chrysalis was going to discuss her anger toward Celestia was because of her friend.

“Oh Coco,” Chrysalis mumbled to herself, “I pray that everything goes well with Celestia. But…” The upset queen laid her head down on a soft pillow. “...I doubt everything will go according to plan… Besides, the goal is to gain love, not create a treaty.”

After closing her eyes, sleep finally grasped Queen Chrysalis’ consciousness.

The Fateful Event: Awakened

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Who You Work For
Ch.32

Coco Pommel slept soundly as she lay on her old yet comfortable bed. The sky was not yet orange with the sun as it had not come up just yet. Perhaps Princess Celestia was trying to get a few more minutes in her own bed before tending to her duties.

KNOCK KNOCK!

The pony stirred as her slumber was bothered. She opened her eyes, lifted her head, and looked to the door. “Come in!” Coco called out.

The door opened upon the mare’s voice and Fang entered with a cart full of food. “I brought you a nice helping this morning,” he spoke. Looking back, the pony looked to her friend and her meal.

“Well aren't you being sweet today,” Coco giggled, observing a custard pastry. A growl came from the pony’s belly, and the sound made the two laugh. Not knowing how hungry she was, Coco quickly got out of bed toward Fang and gave herself a good stretch as she touched ground. Suddenly, her vision started to darken and her legs grew weak. Then, she was falling. But her drop was short lived when something, or rather, somechangeling caught her.

“Coco, are you alright!?” Fang exclaimed. Despite her impaired vision, Coco Pommel heard the changeling loud and clear.

“I’m fine,” she smiled. “I just got up too quickly.”

“A head rush,” Fang sighed in relief.

Slowly, Coco's vision and strength returned. And when it came to, she saw a very concerned Inferno Fang. She booped his nose with her hoof. “This isn’t the first time you caught me.”

Even though he appreciated the compliment, Fang scrunched his brows. “I thought we don’t like to mention Scar Splash and his antics…”

“I never said his name,” Coco rolled her eyes after Fang derailed her nice comment.

“Well, least you are okay,” he smiled.

“Hehe, I am.”

“Ahem!” A gruff clear of the throat interrupted the moment.

Looking back, Fang saw his queen standing at the doorway. Afraid trouble was on its way, he let go of the mare. Coco shrieked as she fell to the ground.

“What the heck Fang?” Coco grumbled as she got off the ground.

“Sorry,” he remarked. “Queen Chrysalis startled me.”

In a flash, quite literally, the large changeling teleported in front of her guard. Leaning into his face, Chrysalis asked with a mean stare, “Am I really that scary?”

“N-not at all my queen…”

Glancing over to her friend, Chrysalis asked, “Am I scary?”

Coco, unafraid of her friend’s response, said, “You can be, but you have a good heart.”

A sincere smile came from the queen. “I like an honest friend.” Looking to the dresses, Chrysalis spoke, “I am looking forward to today’s events.”

“Mmhmm,” Coco nodded. As they looked at each other, Coco remembered the promise Chrysalis made several days ago. “Can I ask you something?”

The queen read her like a book. “If it is about Princess Celestia, it will have to wait.” But the pony didn’t look like she wanted to wait. “Please. I don’t want to start my morning with her on my mind. And I don’t mean Celestia.”

Instinctively, Queen Chrysalis frowned. Despite her daughter being gone for over 1000 years, it was still hard to forget her. Coco saw her friend’s upset attitude and approached the changeling. Because of Chrysalis’ height, the pony had to reach up to her neck. Chrysalis happily took the kind, friendly gesture and lowered her head so Coco can embrace her. “Thank you Coco,” she spoke in a low tone, almost afraid some other changeling might hear her for some reason.

“Your welcome.” Parting from Chrysalis, Coco Pommel glanced between Fang and the queen. “So what are the plans for tonight.”

“Right, business,” Chrysalis commented. “Glad you want to get that situated first thing.” Coco nodded at the comment. “In a short while, you will be dressing all of the gatherers this morning, including Fang and I. Once you have finished that, Fang and I will accompany you to Canterlot.”

The pony looked a bit confused. “Why will we be leaving so early to Canterlot? Shouldn’t we be heading there in the evening?”

“The contest that is being held tonight,” Fang commented. “Do you remember?”

“Oh. Right. The contest…” It was the overall theme of this year’s gala: the princess and her shining armor. For some reason, the contest intimidated her, despite how she partook in one a few months ago. “Do you think my outfits will win? I mean, what if it’s-”

Chrysalis placed a hoof on Coco’s lips. “If you have already wowed me, the Queen of Changelings, you can wow anyone.” The pony blushed and turned away, flustered by the complement. It’s not everyday that a queen compliments a pony’s work after all.

“So,” Chrysalis continued, “when we get to Canterlot, we will go and sign up for the contest at the ballroom. I know all the details on what to do so no need to ask any questions about that. When we finish there, all of us will kill time before evening falls.”

“How will the other gatherers get to the gala?” Coco asked.

Chrysalis shook her head. “We are changelings. We have our ways. Now, eat your breakfast and no more questions. I shall obtain the gatherers.” She then looked to Fang. “I will need you to assist me in getting them.”

“Of course my queen,” Fang nodded. He turned to Coco and smiled at her. “I cannot wait to be fitted into your amazing outfit you made for me.”

“Hehe,” the mare giggled. “I can’t wait either. I will see you two in a while.” Finished with her talk with the two changelings, Coco brought her attention to her breakfast. Her stomach groaned and her mouth salivated as the food one again entered her vision.

Fang and Chrysalis made their leave in silence. As they rounded the door, then closed it, Chrysalis spoke to Fang, “I have a task for you when we get to Canterlot.”

“Of course my queen,” he answered.

“When we get to the kingdom, Coco and I will go and sign up for the contest tonight. I want you to buy Coco some flowers as a coverup.”

“A cover up? For what?”

“You are to get Coco a room at the best hotel you can find.”

“H-how come?” Fang stuttered.

Chrysalis frowned and stopped in her tracks. “Like I said before: after tonight, you will never be able to see her again. And trust me, I don’t want to part with a friend like her… But she deserves to forget about us and thrive happily.”

“But what about your promise to Coco, saying you would try and talk to Princess Celestia?” The queen could see how desperate he didn’t want to depart from Coco.

“Do you think Celestia will accept us after everything we have done?”

Fang had to think for a moment before commenting. “If she could forgive her sister, there may be a chance.”

“But Celestia and I are not related in any way.” Shaking the emotions out of her mind, Queen Chrysalis obtained her original serious attitude. “So, do not disappoint me or disobey my orders. You will do as I say.”

Fang’s head glanced downward, sad to hear how resistant his queen is. “Anything you wish for my queen.”

The Fateful Event: Blueberries and Cream

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Ch.33

“Aaand… there!” Coco smiled as she finished applying the final dress to Stitch Snitch.

“Do you still think I look like a gift?” the changeling asked as she giggled.

“Hey, I ask the questions.” Both mares laughed at the statement realizing how silly it was. Coco looked around the room as the gatherers were once again in her dwelling. This time, however, they were fitted into their outfits and looked like ponies. Typical chatter filled the room. Coco heard others complement each other at how good their outfits looked on them. It was a happy sight. Despite that they were changelings, Coco loved their joy. If she could, the pony would want to feed off their happiness just to know what an emotion tastes like.

Coco also noticed Queen Chrysalis mingling with the other changelings. Again, it was a happy sight. Their ruler was talking among them. Coco could asume that it is a high honor to even be noticed by royalty. But because the she was so close to Chrysalis, it was nice just to have her as a friend.

“Oh, look who it is,” Stitch commented as she looked to the doorway. Coco turned to see her tailor friends entering her room. Silver Liner had a smile on his face, Silky Magot wore a bit of a serious face, and Knight Cap still obtained her blank expression.

They quickly walked over to Stitch and Coco. “So,” Silky spoke first, “this is it?” She looked around at others and then back to the pony. “I am glad to see you pulled through with dealing with us changelings.”

“Well, it is thanks to you and the others that made me do so,” Coco answered.

A sincere smile crawled onto Silky’s face. “And… it’s thanks to you that I… sort of… kind of… respect ponies maybe a little more because of you.” Just the thought was embarrassing enough, but the changeling was not wrong. If one single earth pony could help changelings, the possibility of another coming along and helping them is more than likely.

“You made our queen happy,” Silver Liner commented. “I have full respect for you Coco.” He glanced over to Silky and smirked at her. “Miss Prideful over here may not tell you everything, but you inspire her.”

A mean stare came from Silky Magot. “Keep talking and I will remove your tongue, Mister I hate simple dresses.” Instead of arguing with the mare, Silver felt that it was not the time to cause a scene. His queen was present and prefered her current joyful mood.

Since Knight Cap has not yet spoken, Coco Pommel set her gaze on the changeling. I wonder what is going on in that head of hers.

“A lot of things,” Knight Cap responded. It took the pony slightly aback as she forgot about the changeling’s mind reading abilities. Knight Cap placed a hoof on Coco’s shoulder and gave a small grin. “Thanks,” was all she could muster up. Coco took the friendly gesture as a “let me hug you” motion and moved in toward Knight Cap, embracing her. The love surrounded the changeling, startling her. “Let me go, let me go, let me go!” Knight Cap repeated, embarrassed from the kind gesture.

Squirming free from Coco’s grip, the changeling briskly walked to Stitch Snitch’s side, finally regaining her normal blank expression.

“Hehe, I am glad that we all care about you Coco,” Stitch remarked. “Just-” The changeling began to choke on her words, then began to sob. “-t-thank you… Thank you for doing this for the children.”

Coco walked over to Stitch and the two hugged for a short moment. “It’s just the right thing to do. Besides, Chrysalis was generous to give me this task and payed me well. I only have to give back my own generosity.”

After sniffling, Stitch looked at Knight Cap. “So how do I look?”

“Like a present,” she replied.

“I told you,” Coco commented, pointing her hoof at Stitch.

“And lovely,” Knight Cap continued. “I'm surprised no male changeling has asked you to be your mate.”

“K-Knight Cap!” Stitch blushed as she glared at her friend. “Don't say things like that! It's embarrassing.” The changeling looked away and frowned. “Besides, what stallion would want to be with me anyways?”

Coco went to Stitch’s side and placed a hoof on her shoulder. “I know that there is a stallion out there just waiting for you. You just need to find him.”

Not agreeing with the pony’s statement, the changeling finally changed into her pony disguise. Stitch’s new pony body shined with her goldenrod fur and curly rose red mane. “No one wants to be with an over sensitive mare anyways.”

“If you look like that,” Coco imputed, “you might be surprised. You might even meet a sweet stallion tonight.”

Again, Stitch disagreed and shook her head. “What pony would want to love a changeling?”

Coco looked at her friend sternly. “You are looking at one. I love and care about you and all the other tailors here.” The pony gestured to them as they spoke; they nodded at her comment.

“Even though we may not be on even grounds with ponies quite yet,” Knight Cap imputed, “you just might meet a nice stallion.” Using the will of her own will, Knight Cap smiled. In unison, Coco, Knight Cap, Silver Liner, and Silky Magot surrounded Stitch Snitch and all hugged her.

“We are all here for you,” Silky spoke warmly.

Of course, the amount of affection that was being exhausted unto the changeling, Stitch Snitch began to weep tears of joy. “Oh… You all are the sweetest,” she sniffed.

A large shadow loomed over the cluster of changelings and pony. “How sweet,” Chrysalis spoke. At once, Coco and the other tailors dispersed and looked at the queen. She noticed that even though Chrysalis was in her dress, she was not disguised as a unicorn just yet. “It's nice to see you all get along.”

“I would hope you would see that,” Coco smiled.

The queen smiled back without any words spoken. Then she looked up and exclaimed, “Attention everychangeling!” As if a wind came through the room and stole the changeling’s voices, silence reigned. Looking back down, Chrysalis stared at Coco Pommel. “...and pony.” Coco giggled as the queen mentioned her among the others.

“Tonight is the night we feed in secret!” Chrysalis called out. “I first want to mention something: we are not to be down on ourselves for what the Grand Galloping Gala is celebrating. Even though it is their celebration of our defeat, we are not broken.” The speech was a bit motivating to Coco, but couldn't feel nervous as well; almost afraid Chrysalis would turncoat on her and attack Canterlot. But Coco trusted her friend. She trusted that Chrysalis wouldn't go against her word. Right?

“We are not going to fall because of one loss,” Chrysalis resumed. “One is singular. And we! Are! Many!” A cheer ripped through the air. Several changelings buzzes their wings while others stomped their hooves. The noise was powerful and Coco could feel the energy rippling off of every changeling. Wanting to quiet the crowd, the queen lifted up her hoof, and soon, the noise died.

“I want you all to arrive after sunset,” Chrysalis ordered. “...and I want you to leave between 10pm and 12am. We don't want to all leave at once and create suspicion. Understood?”

“Yes my queen!” the hive mind spoke.

The changelings’ unison outcry shook Coco to the core. The fact that they all were in sync frightened the pony. They were the hive and were many as Chrysalis had just stated. Thankfully, they were on Coco’s side.

“You are all free until this evening,” Chrysalis spoke. “You may leave now.”

Quickly, the changelings began to make their way out of the room. “I will see you later,” Stitch spoke before turning around and leaving. The other tailors said their goodbyes as well before going with Stitch.

After all have left, only Chrysalis and Fang remained in the room. Fang was standing off to the side by the balcony away from his queen, staring out toward the sky. He was dressed and disguised handsomely. He looked powerful as he did good looking. It almost flattered Coco as how well he looked, but knew she was the one who made his outfit. Coco looked at her creation (her outfit of course.) When she was inspired by Fang, she wanted to create power. A prince, according to fairytales, is brave, handsome, and strong. Because Fang chose to disguise his fur crimson and hair like red shattered glass,not to mention the fact that he used fire magic, the idea was perfect. Alongside Chrysalis’ dress, which was blue and cool, Fang’s outfit was hot and red. And the crown. That silver crown propped up on Fang’s head. It was such an amazing accessory. The sight of him was amazing. Perhaps partaking in the contest at the gala was a good thing.

Done looking at her distracted friend, Coco brought her attention to the queen. “Are we ready to leave?” the pony asked as she approached Chrysalis .

“In a moment,” she replied. Chrysalis turned to the door and Coco soon followed the same motion. In the doorway stood Sea More, smiling as usual. “He requested to see you off before we go to Canterlot. It's the least I can do for him. He did suggest me to go the gala and hire a pony to make the dresses after all.”

Focused in on him, Coco Pommel made her way to the changeling. “You came to say goodbye I see.”

Sea More nodded, “Yes I did.” Reaching behind him, he pulled out a book. “I also want to give this to you. Consider it a gift.”

Taking the unwrapped present, Coco claimed the book. “Thanks,” she spoke. Even though I don't read. But it was a kind gesture to say the least.

“It's from my favorite writer,” Sea More spoke, pointing his hoof at it.

Taking a look at the title, Coco read aloud, “Endless Chase: Escape the River Kingdom. By Star Stripe Banner.” Not having much to say, the pony said, “An interesting title to say the least.”

“Trust me,” Sea More winked, “it's more than a story. Have fun with tonight.” And with that, he turned around and left.

A sigh came from behind Coco. The mare looked at her to see Chrysalis shaking her head in disapproval. “Him and his books.”

“Did he recommend this book to you?” Coco walked over to the bed and placed it on the sofa.

“He just loooves to recommend all kinds of pony written books. The hive has plenty of great writers.” Coco gave her friend a concerned look. “What?” the queen asked with a raise of a brow.

“You don't give ponies much of a chance do you, even when it comes to writing?”

Another sigh left Chrysalis. “I support those who support me.” A serious look came from the queen. “Am I wrong for that?”

“Maybe… you should give Celestia a chance to support you tonight.” Chrysalis’ mouth opened but no words came out. Coco smiled and placed a hoof on her friend. “Just try! Try!” she said, slightly shaking Chrysalis’ shoulder with a small amount of frustration. “And maybe you won't ever have to worry about being hungry if you do.”

Chrysalis knew creating a treaty with Celestia was always an option; Sea More constantly reminds her of it as well. But to allow that to happen without Celestia know of her crime was not in the queen’s book. If that princess were to know how she really feels, it would have to be personal.

But the more the changeling thought about it now, it made was making more sense to her. All she had to do was befriend her tonight, take her someplace quiet, and then… Then Chrysalis will show her true self and thoughts to the princess.

“I'll do it as I promised.” Queen Chrysalis spoke, removing Coco’s hoof with her own.

“Thank you.”

Still looking out the large window, Fang stood where he was, listening to the pony. Despite him being by himself, he was listening to Coco, still amazed by her. Just the fact that she was able to convince Queen Chrysalis, his queen, to even talk with Celestia was astonishing.

You are some mare, Fang thought to himself, smiling as he looked at several clouds moving through the air.

“What are you smiling at?” Coco’s voice startled the changeling and he flinched as he noticed the mare in his peripheral. “Sorry if I scared you,” the pony giggled.

“You just came out of nowhere,” Fang remarked as he grinned at her. “If I didn’t know any better, I might have mistaken you for a unicorn.”

Coco thought about what it could be like to cast spells and use magic, but shook her head at the thought. “I am just fine with the way I am. Besides, I’d rather keep magic a mystery to me.”

Finished with his conversation with Coco, he looked back to see his queen staring at him. “Are we about ready to leave, my queen?”

A green flame fanned over Chrysalis and transformed her physical form into her beautiful unicorn form. Chrysalis’ blonde mane shined with a lovely gloss and her white fur made the queen look as pure as snow. But of course, Coco and Fang knew the queen’s true colors, quite literally. But still, she did look very beautiful.

“I believe we are,” Chrysalis finally answered. “That is, until Coco can get herself dressed. Then we can be on our way.”

It just dawned onto Coco that she had not yet clothed herself yet. The mare was so carried away with dressing all of the changelings, that she forgot to apply her own. Quickly, Coco went over to her dress and put it on. After she was dressed, Coco walked in front of the mirror, adjusting her outfit. While she did that, the mare looked at the detail of the gown.

At the hemline of the dress, a lovely light-cyan strip ran around the edge of the skirt. Several light cyan beads were sprinkled across the body. The rest of the outfit was in a slightly darker shade of cream than that of Coco’s fur. At the upper breast region, a cute light-cyan ribbon was knitted into the dress. As Coco thought to herself before, the first thing that came to mind when she saw herself in the dress was blueberries and cream. Finished with her dress, the mare was adding the last thing: the pink rose that Fang had picked for her by her left ear. Despite Fang taking that flower from her daughter’s garden, Chrysalis let it slide.

“I’ll admit,” Chrysalis spoke as she came into the mirror’s picture, “your beauty does rival mine. But only as a pony!” the queen corrected. “I am still and always will be the most lovely of all changelings.”

“I know,” Coco giggled as she rolled her eyes.

Looking around the room, Chrysalis analyzed everything, thinking if she had forgotten anything. But everything has been taken care of. The only thing that needed to be handled was setting up everything for the competition at the Grand Galloping Gala. “Let’s get going now,” Queen Chrysalis spoke sternly. “I want to be sure we are entered into the contest.”

“Okay,” Coco answered.

“Of course my queen,” Fang spoke formally.

At once, all three began to leave the room. Fang and Chrysalis had already stepped outside, while Coco stood just at the door. She looked back at her work table, remembering her first time stepping into her room. So much has happened. So many friends were made. And so-

“Coco,” Chrysalis called, knocking on the wooden door, “we need to go.”

“S-sorry.” Shaking her head, Coco briskly went to her bed and took the book Sea More gave her before walking out of her room. She figured that Chrysalis may not want to hear questions all day, so Coco wanted to occupy herself if the queen wanted to be alone with her thoughts.

The Fateful Event: Hypocrite

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Ch.34

All three of them walked in silence as Coco followed the changelings as they turned this way and that. Even though the mare had been down these halls before, she could never remember where she was going or even where she was. If Coco were to ever want to come back in visit, if it was possible, she would need to remember how to venture through the castle hallways. Otherwise, Fang may have to retire his position as the queen's personal guard to Coco's personal escort.

After rounding another corner, two changelings crossed their path. One was an adult. The other, a child. Despite how the Chrysalis was disguised as a unicorn, the changelings knew exactly who her queen was. “Forgive me my queen,” the older changeling spoke as she stood aside for Chrysalis. The young one stood beside the female without saying a word. “You look very beautiful my queen,” the adult spoke again. Stopping, Queen Chrysalis turned to face the commoner. Fang and Coco stopped as well.

“Thank you,” the queen answered. Chrysalis peered down at the child with a smile. “Are you enjoying your day?”

All the child could do was quickly nod with a smile. The size of her queen intimidated the child. Then the little changeling looked to see Coco Pommel and gasped. “Coco!”

In an instant, Coco recognized the child. “Teethling!” the pony exclaimed. Walking over to the filly, the pony smiled, “How are you?”

Not answering Coco’s question, Teethling said with an awestruck expression, “You look soooooo pretty.”

Coco glanced at the mare changeling who was smiling at her. Of course, that mare was her mother. “It’s nice to see my daughter taking a liking into you.”

“Can I assume the same for you?” Coco asked.

“I suppose…” the mother answered with a shy response.

From a distance, Fang could see his queen becoming a little irritable, despite her not saying anything. “My queen,” he spoke, “shall we be on our way?”

“We should,” she responded in a low tone.

“O-oh! Sorry for keeping you my queen,” the mother responded.

Chrysalis then looked down at her friend and said, “Say goodbye. We have things to attend to.”

Not wanting to upset her friend, Coco smiled at Teething and said her farewells before walking off with Chrysalis and Fang. “Forgive me for being impatient,” the queen spoke as they walked, “but I want to make sure that we handle business first by signing up for this contest. I want to be sure I can be guaranteed that I will be absorbing a plethora amount of love tonight.”

“I understand,” Coco answered. “This night is very important to the hive. You just want to stockpile on food.” She looked up at her friend with a smile. “You know, you are very brave to put yourself out on the line just so you can feed your home.”

“It’s what a ruler must do.”

In her peripheral, Coco noticed Fang nodding to his queen’s response. Coco wanted to ask him what he thought about his queen being unafraid of going out of the hive, but felt she could hold that question in.

Once more, they began to walk through the hallways. Two rights. A left. A straight away. After a few minutes passed, a changeling began walking toward their direction. However, unlike the other two who stood aside for Chrysalis, the changeling simply stopped in the middle of the hall.

“Get out of the way!” the queen ordered.

“I- I need a moment to speak to you,” spoke the stallion. The voice was familiar and Coco was hoping it wasn’t who she thought it was. She glanced at Fang who stared intensely forward with an angered look in his eyes.

“Move!” Fang ordered.

Something hard hit the guard in the cheek. “Do NOT speak for me!” Queen Chrysalis barked before turning her attention forward to the changeling ahead. “I order you to move! NOW!”

As they got closer, Coco knew who it was. It was Scar Splash. The mare instinctively pressed her body against Fang knowing he will keep her safe. At this point, Chrysalis was looking like she was ready to walk over Scar Splash, perhaps trample him in the process.

“Please my queen,” Scar begged. His expression looked scared. Perhaps Queen Chrysalis knew of his actions that he did yesterday and was very unhappy with Scar Splash.

“Whatever it is you need to tell me can wait,” Chrysalis spoke as she was now several feet in front of her.

“Has Fang not told you what I had done yesterday?”

At once, the queen stopped directly in front of the changeling. She noticed that Scar was staring directly at Coco Pommel. She also noticed how Coco was staring back at him with fear in her eyes and saw Fang glaring at Scar. Coldly, the queen asked, “What did you do to her?”

“Nothing my queen. I did nothing to her. But-”

“He was challenging your rule!” Fang yelled, pointing a hoof at him. Coco stood behind Fang, afraid things were about to turn ugly. If there is one thing she abhorred, it was yelling.

Fang was expecting his queen to blast Scar Splash into oblivion upon his statement, but she remained still. “And what exactly were you challenging?” Chrysalis spoke calmly.

Scar was hesitant, but he answered, “By… you befriending that pony over there!” His expression was then turned to Coco, angry with her presence. Bringing attention to himself, Fang stepped forward, ready to confront Scar. “Go ahead, try something.”

“Step back Fang,” Queen Chrysalis demanded. Fang did not want to do so, but he was more afraid of his leader than a worthless challenger. Stepping in front of Scar, she spoke calmly, “Do you think because Coco Pommel is my friend, that gives you the right to be angry with my choice?”

“I…” Scar Splash stuttered, “believe she is making you weak. I just needed to tell you that. I went and told Fang that his pony friend was making him soft. And I also told him that that pony is making you forget your purpose for-”

In one quick motion, Scar Splash’s body was flung into the wall. Coco shrieked as she watched the changeling get tossed like a rag doll. He yelled in pain as he crashed against the stone surface. Several jagged cracks shot out in random directions from the impact sight of Scar’s body. His body then fell to the ground. Transforming herself back into her changeling form, the queen stood over the hurt stallion. “You of all changelings should not be telling me this.” Leaning down to his ear, Chrysalis whispered, “Perhaps I should tell my friend your secret. That might teach you to not speak against me.”

Still scared, the pony stood behind Fang, afraid of what might happen next. Fang turned to see his friend frightened and he frowned. “Don’t be scared.” But that did not help ease Coco’s nerves. She knew how Chrysalis could get when she is angry. However, this was a different side of her friend she did not know about and she did not want to be on the other end of the queen's wrath.

“Now,” Chrysalis spoke aloud, suspending Scar in the air, “you are in my way.” Swinging her head backwards in one quick motion, Chrysalis sent the changeling sailing backwards. Coco ducked behind Fang, afraid Scar might hit her. Coco watched Scar as he hit the ground, tumbling as he slid across the ground, then hitting into the wall at the end of the hall.

When the changeling came to a crashing halt, the mare watched him slowly get up and stare back at her. Though she might not be able to see his expression, Coco knew he was glaring at her. But why? Why did he dislike her so much? Why did he challenge his queen’s choice?

“Let’s keep moving,” Chrysalis spoke. Turning her head, the mare noticed her friend was now back into her unicorn form. But Coco was having a hard time moving herself. Fear had cemented her legs from moving. The pony looked back to see that Scar Splash was no longer in their presence. “Do not worry about him,” the queen said, placing a hoof on her shoulder. Leaning toward Coco’s ear, Chrysalis spoke, “I’ll tell you why he is a hypocrite in the carriage.”

So there IS a reason why Chrysalis did what she did! Coco thought in her mind. Because of curiosity, it decayed the heavy weights of fear and allowed the pony to walk forward again. “Okay, let’s go,” Coco mustered up.

At once, they all began to move once again. Fang looked to Coco and said, “Don’t be upset Coco. We have a great night to look forward to. You still owe me a dance.”

The statement seemed to lighten up the pony’s attitude as he saw her smile. “Hehe, I do.”

Chrysalis turned her gaze to the wall. Too bad it will be your only dance with him…

The Fateful Event: A Story Begins

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Ch.35

Coco sat close to the window of the carriage, watching the clouds go by as the carriage flew in the air. The mare wished to be quiet anyways as she sat on the opposite side of the changeling queen. She was still shaken up a little by Chrysalis’ punishment that she bestowed unto Scar. Even though he may have deserved it, Coco still felt bad for him. The pony was also trying her hardest to not ask the queen any questions. Chrysalis did say she would tell Coco why Scar Splash is a hypocrite, but wanted to give the changeling some time to herself as well. Thankfully, the pony brought the book that Sea More gave her. Opening it to the first page, the pony began to read…

***

Stepping forward, Forest Rain leaned in to take a drink from the lake. The water looked fresh enough that it must be safe to consume. He took a sip to taste. Didn’t taste like poison. Because his thirst was just too much to bare, Forest Rain sucked in a mouthful of water and gulped it down. It hurt when he swallowed, but it was only temporary pain.

But as he finished forcing down a large amount of liquid, something stirred the water. The pegasus looked up to see a fin raise up from the water and then back under. ‘Perhaps it was a large fish,’ Forest Rain thought as he returned to quenching his thirst.

He began to sip at the liquid, now taking in more and more as he filled his stomach. Forest then heard the water make a sound again and this time, closer. Not wanting to lift his head, Forest glanced upwards to see if anything was in his peripheral. And when he did, the stallion did see something. A pair of-

“Are you enjoying your book?” Chrysalis asked, breaking Coco’s concentration.

“It was just getting interesting,” Coco answered.

“Then don't let my intrusion on your reading stop you.”

Closing the novel, the pony placed it aside, now thinking Chrysalis was now in the mood for talking. “Well, I don't mind talking to my friend.”

The queen leaned on the wall of the carriage. “I can assume you want to ask about Scar Splash, correct?” Once again, the changeling’s name caused Coco to freeze and Chrysalis saw that. “He certainly does scare you.” The mare nodded slowly. “Well, perhaps I will tell you his secret…”

Coco’s ears perked upwards. “What do you mean ‘his secret?’”

“I mean he has a secret that will make you turn your head about him,” Chrysalis answered. “Besides, he has frightened my closest friend. And I hate those who frighten those who are close to me.” The statement did help comfort Coco slightly, knowing she has a protective friend; however, it also made the mare nervous knowing Chrysalis is a bit of an extremist.

“Alright, what is the secret then?”

***

A cool wind blew against Fang as he pulled the carriage through the sky. His thoughts were clear, even though he wanted to hurt Scar Splash for the display he just did in front of Queen Chrysalis. Lucky for Fang, his leader retaliated against Scar's action, so nothing was needed to be done on his part.

He looked at the small world below him, loving the calm flight.

“WHAAAAAAAAT?!” A shout of disbelief rang out of the carriage from behind. Looking back at the wagon, Fang could only assume that was Coco. And perhaps Chrysalis answered a shocking question.

***

Coco Pommel couldn't believe it. It all made sense but it didn't. “B-but how?!” the mare blurted out. “How can Scar- When did they- What happened-” So many questions shot through Coco’s little mind so fast, her ability to make sentences have become crippled and incomplete.

“Do you understand why he is a hypocrite?” Chrysalis asked calmly.

“I- I don't understand,” Coco spoke, finally able to speak coherently. “If Scar Splash loved a pony before, then… why does he hate me? Why does he hate ponies so much?”

“If you were a changeling you would understand.” The pony opened her mouth, but Chrysalis cut her off, “I must say this: because you know of his secret, you must not tell her or him. Understand?”

“Why?”

“If you tell him, he won't believe you. If you tell her that he is alive, she will hunt him down…” A moment of silence came through the carriage. “Matter of fact, don't tell anyone.”

“Okay. But why are you telling me this?”

A smile came across Chrysalis’ face, “Because I trust you with all of my heart. And if Scar cannot accept that, then that is too bad.” Slowly, Coco bobbed her head. “Are there any other questions you wish to ask me?”

Thinking for a moment, the pony came up with a question, “So, how are you going to tell Princess Celestia how you feel about her?”

“I am going to use you when I confront Princess Celestia." Queen Chrysalis sounded very matter of fact.

The plan of confronting Princess Celestia was beginning to make Coco unsure about what her friend had in mind. “And... how will you do that?” the pony nervously asked, her brows raised in anticipation.

Looking outside, Chrysalis saw the clouds pass by. “I have been thinking about what to do during this entire ride and this is what I came up with: When the time is right, I will take you and Celestia somewhere quiet. Don’t ask where or when, you will know.” The pony nodded, taking note of everything being said. “When I reveal myself, I want you to deny that you knew about me being a changeling. That is all.”

“W-what?!” Coco got up and stood in front of the queen. “You want me to deny you?!”

Chrysalis nodded, “That is correct.”

“But why?!” The pony’s ears fell back in defense. “Why would I deny one of my closest friends?! I- I can’t do that!” Coco’s eyes began to hurt as tears started to build.

“Please,” the queen begged, “trust me. Please. This is the only way for it to work and see the true heart of the princess. But for it to work, I must leave out several important details. All you need to do is to deny knowing I am a changeling.”

“Alright.” Coco was about to turn around and sit back down, but she felt herself being pulled toward the queen. The mare was then placed right next to Chrysalis, who smiled at her.

“Don’t worry,” the changeling spoke, placing an arm around Coco. “I trust you. It’s not everyday a queen is this close to a commoner.”

The complement was too much for Coco and she couldn’t help but smile. “Hehe, that is true.”

Looking to the opposite side of the carriage, Chrysalis levitated the novel over to her friend. “Now why don’t you read a little more, okay? I still need to think about tonight.”

“Mmhmm,” Coco hummed. Taking the floating book, the earth pony opened the novel and got to the page before she was interrupted. The whole plan Chrysalis was planning was making Coco a little unsure of what was going on in her friend's head. But she was a queen who was many years older than her.

Hopefully Chrysalis knows what she is doing...

The Fateful Event: Back in Time

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Ch.36

‘Why does nopony believe me?’ Forest Rain repeated to himself. He knew what he saw in the lake a few days before: a mermare. The stallion remembered how her eyes reflected light through her glassy spheres when he saw her under the water. Too bad the mermare startled him and caused her to dash back under the blue blanket.

Forest walked back and forth along the edge of the lake, wondering if there were more under the water. He wondered if there was a civilization in the depths. He had to know. Looking back at his makeshift kayak, he grabbed the rope at the front and pulled hard. His crude vessel was not heavy; Forest was just eager to get out on the open water. Sure he knew he could fly above the water using a cloud, but there was a thick fog in the air. And clearing up a fog on his own would take hours.

As soon as he got the kayak on the waters, Forest Rain hopped into it and grabbed hold of his two paddles and began to paddle toward the center of the lake.

…
…

Two hours have passed since the pegasus has ventured onto the open waters. The fog had not yet lifted, impairing his vision to see no further than a few meters in front of him. Despite the search so far has bared no fruit, Forest Rain still remained active. He was determined to find a mermare, or even the mermare he saw a few days earlier.

…

Sleep was beginning to creep up on Forest Rain faster than the fading light of day. But thankfully, the stallion was smart and brought a lantern with him so he could see through the night. Feeling he could rest his eyes a little, Forest Rain got into a slightly uncomfortable fetal position in his boat before closing his eyelids.

He smiled as the ship began to rock slightly back in forth like a cradle. It was nice that the kayak was rocking. It began to sway more and more, but not too much.

Then it hit Forest Rain. He sat up quickly to look in the water. Several pairs of eyes stared up at him. They were several merfolk just below his boat. The creatures were just as still as he was and the boat stopped rocking. A mare was close to him. The same mermare from before! The stallion felt he could try and be friendly with her. Reaching out a hoof, he submerged it underwater. The mermare looked slightly nervous at the kind gesture, almost looking at the hoof as if it was some alien limb.

But with time, she too reached for his hoof. When hers did come in contact, Forest Rain smiled. ‘I can’t believe I found merfolk. I thought they were a legend; a myth!’ the pegasus thought happily to himself.

As he spectated from the surface, Forest Rain saw the mermare glance around at the others. He noticed some of the stallions there were nodding to her and she nodded back. What did that mean?

Without warning, Forest Rain was tugged and pulled under. Several arms grabbed him as he tried to squirm free. However, the numbers were against him. Bubbles shrouded around him but that didn't hide the angry eyes from some of the merfolk. Because of his exhausted strength, Forest needed to breath. But instead of moving up to the surface, the merfolk swam deeper away from the surface. The pegasus began to panic, worried if we would ever-

KUGH KUNCK!

The entire carriage bounced as it crashed to the ground. Coco was flung out of her seat and her book jumped up into the air. The moment the mare crashed to the floor, the novel fell onto her head. A chuckle came from Queen Chrysalis as she admired how silly her friend looked on the ground.

“How do you manage to stay seated when Fang does his terrible landing?” Coco grumbled as she rubbed her injured cranium.

“A question you have to figure out on your own,” Chrysalis commented.

“Was my landing well my queen?” Fang asked as soon as he opened the door to the carriage. His answer was given to him the moment his eyes met Coco’s irritated gaze. “Heh, sorry…” Embarrassed, the pony simply got up, picked up her book, and sat down. “So-” Fang looked back and forth between both mares before continuing his statement, “-my queen, shall I be dropping you two off at the castle so you may be entering Coco Pommel’s outfits in the contest tonight?”

“That is correct,” Chrysalis responded. “And remember to call me Your Majesty you two. If I am to be the princess of this contest, I am to be addressed as such.” The queen held her hoof to her chest, proud to boast about herself. She then caught Coco giggling at her, perhaps amused by the praise Chrysalis was giving herself.

“Of course-” Fang looked around outside and then stuck his head back into the carriage, “my queen.” Looking to Coco, he grinned, “And don’t worry, there will be no more flying until this evening.”

“Oh very funny,” the pony responded sarcastically just before the door was slammed shut. Even though Coco wanted to resume her reading, she felt that a good amount of small talk was in order. “So Chrysalis?”

“Yes?”

“Umm… what do you like most about your hive?”

The changeling hummed as she leaned against the wall, thinking about the question. She stared up at the ceiling as she answered, “The unity we all share.” Chrysalis’ eyes then met with Coco’s. “You know the Harth’s Warming Eve story, correct?”

“Of course I do,” Coco answered. “Earth ponies, unicorns, and pagusi relied on each other, but didn’t like one another. Eventually, they settled their differences to stop the windagos and their harsh winter.”

“I may have not been around during the time of the windagos. But I do know that my mother, and her mother, and her mother’s mother, and so on, needed to stay close to one another regardless of what you are. Let the one in charge lead the way. And as a whole, do your part as to what is needed of you.”

Coco Pommel was beginning to respect the changeling society a bit more based on that statement. “If only the entire world had your mentality.”

“Perhaps that is why the changeling race has been able to live so well, despite our shortcomings… like food.” A sigh escaped Chrysalis. “But I guess our curse is to feed off of others’ happiness.” The queen broke her eye contact with Coco and leaned her head against the wall. “Life isn’t fair sometimes. And yet, you need to show life that you will not give up without fighting.”

“I know that too well,” the pony admitted.

“And I am glad you did fight until you improved your situation.”

“Not really,” Coco shrugged. “Fang just happened to walk in and offered me to make a dress ‘fit for a queen.’”

“Sometimes life gives you things you’d never expect, yes?” Chrysalis asked as she raised a brow.

Something sparked in Coco’s mind. “And that makes for an interesting question Chrysalis.”

“And what might that be?”

Even the thought of the question was silly, but Coco still wanted to ask, “If you could go back in time and save your daughter, would you?”

A serious, yet sad expression came across Chrysalis’ face. “What do you think? If life were to ever be that generous to me, I would do anything to obtain the ability to time travel.”

Coco didn’t know why she had asked the question, but she just… did. It would be nice if Chrysalis could be reunited with her daughter, but what are the chances that were to happen? Coco then tells herself that she had asked one too many questions.

The Fateful Event: Bowing to Her Majesty

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Ch.37

The streets of Canterlot were not too crowded as Fang made his way through the kingdom, toward the castle. While he pulled the carriage, the changeling peered around to see if he could find the best hotel this white stoned city had to offer. Fang didn’t want to look for a hotel for Coco, however. He wanted to hold on to the hope that he would be able to see her again. After all, Chrysalis cares about Coco just as much as he does; perhaps not as much as him, but the care is still there. But if there is one thing Fang will never do is question his queen’s will. He remembered how Queen Chrysalis dealt with Scar Splash as he was challenging her decision. It was a nice memory. Scar finally got what was coming for him.

Approaching the castle walls, the stallion slowed to a stop and removed the harness from his torso. Fang then went over to the door and opened it. “My ladies,” he politely spoke, “we have arrived at the Canterlot Castle.”

Taking no time at all, both Chrysalis and Coco stepped out of the wagon and into the light. It was a little too bright for the mares as there was a bit of an overcast that magnified the sun's intensity. But their eyes adjusted quickly no less, despite having to squint a little. “Thank you, Fang,” the queen complemented. She looked down at her pony friend. “Shall we?” Chrysalis gestured to the castle.

“Mmhmm,” Coco nodded.

Before the mares left the disguised changeling, the queen said to Fang, “Do what you want while we sign up. But be sure you are not gone for too long. Meet us back at the entrance here.”

“Of course Your Majesty,” Fang bowed slightly.

“Be safe,” Coco spoke as she came up to him and gave him a hug.

All Fang could do was chuckle. “Trust me, I think others need to be safe around me.”

“Oh just take the complement!” The mare playfully shoved the changeling away before turning to Chrysalis. “Let’s go.”

“Yes,” Chrysalis answered. Coco got a bit of a head start as she walked toward the white walls of Canterlot Castle. Chrysalis got a bit of distance away from the pony before looking back at her guard who stared back. The queen blinked at him, remember your task.

All Fang did was nod as an answer.

***

Thankfully for the two mares, there were signs that directed them to where they needed to go. It was also a good thing that the signups were indoors and not having to deal with the bright sun. Several other ponies stood in line as Coco and Chrysalis waited to sign up for the contest. Most stood by themselves quietly, perhaps not wanting to get friendly with the competition. But the ones who did talk were speaking of high hopes, wondering what would happen if they won the competition. The chatter did slightly make Coco nervous, constantly reminding her what she was unknowingly signed up for.

“So this is it,” Coco spoke with a nervous grin. “Tonight we get to see if others like my dresses as well.”

The disguised changeling shook her head. “Do you not trust in your own skill?”

“I never said I did, but the contest scene is something I am not yet used to…”

“And you are used to working with me.”

Coco let out a sigh. “Perhaps I got used to you.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Chrysalis spoke with a playful smile. The queen’s gaze broke from Coco as she looked behind the pony. Her smile vanished. “Well look who it is…”

Turning around, Coco looked to see Suri Polomare walking down the wide hallway. It was a surprise to see her, but thankfully, it didn’t scare Coco. It was nice to see her previous boss. The earth pony waved at Suri as she walked forward. As Suri’s eyes met Chrysalis’, she had a hard time pulling herself toward the line. But the mare still progressed forward and eventually got to Coco and Chrysalis.

“Hello,” Suri spoke in a slightly lower tone than the others around her.

“It’s nice to see you again,” Coco beamed. The earth pony lifted her hoof and gestured to her dress. “I love the dress you made for me.”

Suri simply pointed to the disguised changeling and said, “It was really Ch-”

“My idea!” Chrysalis spoke obnoxiously loud. Others turned to see who shouted and gave the disguised changeling a weird stare before returning to their business. She then spoke through her teeth in a low volume to Suri, “Remember that I am to be hidden. You are to call me Your Majesty.”

Suri noticed Chrysalis’ ears pointing dangerously back, telling her she needs to watch her tongue. ‘O-of course Your Majesty.” The pony looked Coco to see if she had any rebuttal against the changeling. After all, Coco did stand up for her. But Suri did not get any complaints from her ex-coworker; all Coco did was just glance back and forth between the mares.

Wanting to lift the tense air, Coco asked, “So Suri, what brings you here? Are you signing up for the competition as well?”

“Umm, yeah,” Suri replied. “I was lucky enough to find some work.”

“How did that happen?”

A chuckle escaped from Suri. “When I was out and about trying to see if I could find any employment at the stores here in Canterlot. As I was headed out of this one store called… what was it…”

“Not important,” Chrysalis interrupted. She saw Coco in her peripheral who stared with a bothered stare, but the changeling didn’t care. “Continue.”

“S-so, umm…” Suri stuttered a bit, slightly intimidated by the changeling. It shocked the pony at how Coco was behaving around Chrysalis. The white unicorn with shining blonde hair was a changeling who happens to be the queen. And yet, Coco stood her ground against the ruler by giving the changeling a look of disapproval.

“As you were saying before you were interrupted,” Coco spoke as she gestured her head toward Chrysalis. But again, the queen didn’t care about the criticism given against her.

Feeling less stressed, Suri continued, “So regardless of store name, I was on my way out with a job application when I overheard a mare asking about having a discount on some of the dresses. I looked to see the clerk talking to a mare and stallion, saying that they could not do such a thing. After having their suggestion being turned down, stallion kissed her cheek and told her that they could go to the gala without a dress. But his girlfriend would not take that for an answer. He then started to tell her that they are short on funds and cannot spend too much money on outfits. And then I stepped in.” Suri looked around a bit and smirked. “When the mare looked at me, she was cross-eyed like she had a lazy eye or something. It was so hard not to laugh at how silly she looked.” The pony couldn’t help but laugh now.

“Did you laugh at her face when you saw her silly stare?” Chrysalis asked.

“N-no…” Suri replied. “That would be rude.”

“Then why are you a coward and talking behind that mare’s back? I can assume you made her and the stallion outfits, correct?” Suri lowered her head in shame, afraid of the big mean bug and her potential angry attitude. “Don’t judge appearances,” Chrysalis said in a calm tone and looked down at Coco. The pony looked up to the changeling, wondering what she is going to say next. “My friend here does not do that.” On her own, Chrysalis pulled Coco close to hug her. The pony blushed and wished to be let go, but remained still.

“So continue your story Suri,” Coco said. “And make sure you finish soon. You wouldn’t want Your Majesty here interrupting you again.”

“You are the one to talk, Miss Questionmaire,” Chrysalis stuck out her tongue playfully.

“Megh!” the mare retaliated, sticking out her own tongue at Chrysalis.

“So… might I resume?” Siri asked. Breaking away from each other, Coco and Chrysalis nodded, waiting for the mare to continue her story.

“They told me that they have very little to spend on a dress. But I told them that there was a contest being held at the gala this year and there was a chance that my dress could win; and if that were to happen, they would be the center of attention… or at least, if we win. The stallion, who is named Time Turner, then asked me how much to pay in return. I then asked if he wanted this night to be special for him and his girlfriend. Time Turner looked to his girlfriend and told her that she deserves the best night of her life. And remembering your pay from your commision,” Suri pointed a hoof at Chrysalis before resuming, “I have so much to spare. So, I made them their outfits for free.”

Coco gasped gleefully. “That was so sweet of you!” the pony exclaimed.

Suri glanced around to see irritated eyes shoot back at her and Coco after her ex-coworker spoke loudly. “It was honestly something I wanted to do out of kindness for once.”

“Well you certainly went the extra mile.”

Suri looked to see if Chrysalis had changed her attitude, but the changeling still stared at her with an intense look.

“It is good to know that you are finding work,” Coco spoke again.

“But it would be nice to win this contest and perhaps get some sponsors.”

“Good luck with that,” Chrysalis said sternly. “We are your competition after all.”

The comment from the changeling was unnecessary and caused a flame to erupt within Suri. She was beginning to hate Chrysalis because of her bitter attitude against her. Yes she did treat Coco poorly and yes Suri got her just deserts. But she wanted the queen to get over herself.

Coco was irritated with Chrysalis belittling Suri and was about to comment when a white pony began walking toward them. Coco's eyes widened when she knew who it was… Princess Celestia was walking their way.

Seeing her friend staring off into space, Chrysalis looked to where Coco was staring. And when she saw the princess, hot coals burned with anger and hatred. The queen almost wanted to break her disguise and attack the unguarded ruler of Equestria as no escorts followed the alicorn. But the only reason why she held back was because of her mission. Otherwise, Celestia would be struck down in her own home… for a second time.

The moment Princess Celestia came close to Coco and Suri, the two ponies bowed in her presence. In her peripheral, Coco noticed Chrysalis was not bowing. The pony was beginning to worry if Chrysalis was about to act irrationally or disrespectfully to the princess.

“There is no need to be so formal in front of me today,” the princess spoke softly. Both Coco and Suri looked up to see Celestia smiling brightly at them.

“It is nice to see you this morning princess,” Chrysalis spoke in a calm tone, nodding at Celestia. The moment the changeling spoke, others turned around to see the one who raises the sun behind them. A sudden rush of commotion came over the line of ponies as they were being graced with Celestia’s presence.

“Thank you.” The alicorn looked up and down at Chrysalis, examining the dress she was wearing. “What a lovely dress you are wearing.”

“It was my friend here who made it,” Chrysalis replied as she gestured to her friend and Coco blushed. “I would bow to you every time you entered a room, but I would trip over the skirt and hit my head the moment I try. And I am sure every mare here would have bruises if they did that all night.”

A happy laugh came from Princess Celestia as she laughed into her large, angelic wing. “Trust me, it happens every year. Some mare bows every moment they see me and ends up with a hurt head.”

“Then if I were you, I suggest carrying a pillow to prevent such accidents,” Chrysalis smiled as she suggested such a silly proposition.

Scratching her chin, the princess thought about the suggestion, giggling a bit. “I'll keep that in mind. What is your name?”

“Your Majesty,” Chrysalis answered, almost wanting to sway her mane around and show off her beauty.

“Lovely name. I do hope to see you later tonight, hehe, Your Majesty.” The princess bowed her head slightly and it caused Chrysalis to laugh.

“Just watch you head or you will be breaking two crowns today.” At once, the changeling and alicorn laughed aloud, amused by their humor.

“Farewell,” Celestia concluded, now walking away to the front of the line.

Something bumped Chrysalis’ arm and she looked down to see Coco Pommel smiling at her. “What?” the changeling asked.

“Seems to me you were getting along with Princess Celestia.”

A huff of air rushed out of Chrysalis’ nostrils. “Please,” she mumbled quietly but loud enough for Coco and Suri to hear. “I am a master of acting. You honestly don't know what went through my head when I saw her.”

Coco didn't buy the reasoning and she continued to grin. “Just try and see.”

“I will. I did promise you that.”

The Fateful Event: To Kill Time

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Ch.38

“What do you mean I have to fight?” Forest Rain argued as he slightly floated above the marble floor.

“Exactly what I said,” Tail Fin flashed a sinister grin. “My kind here under the lake love to watch two creatures tear each other up.”

If Forest Rain could, he would give this smug prince his two cents… with his fists. But there was a problem with that; several in fact: he was underwater for one; he was in the domain of the merfolk. Because the best he could do was wade through the water, Forest Rain would be no match for the speed of the merfolk. Second, they gave him the ability to breath. A small bubble surrounded the pegasus’ head that gave him fresh oxygen to inhale. If he tried to argue again, the prince would want to watch him suffocate some more.

Curious as to what his opponent is, he asked the prince, “Who will I be fighting?”

“Ah!” Tail Fin smiled, as if he felt pity for the poor creature that floated behind the cage it was in. He gesture to the cell on the opposite side of Forest Rain with his magical trident. “She will be your opponent.”

Peering into the cell, Forest Rain noticed a mermare lying on the hard floor. However, the water seemed to keep her slightly afloat from the marble surface, making it seem like she was comfortable. Her tail was a nice shimmering gold; the scales looked like ancient doubloons. Her mane was long and purple. It swayed to and fro calmly like a wheat field being stirred by a gentle breeze.

“Urchin!” the ruler yelled. The mermare twitched and then turned her head. Urchin, who had quite a beautiful backside, did not have the expression of what one may call attractive. Her stare was hard and hot. Hot enough to melt the metal bars that held her within her prison. “Come close so you can see who will be fighting against.”

Forest Rain watched Urchin slowly weave her body through the water as she swam toward the prince. She gripped the bars as if she were about to pull them apart and let herself out.

“I… have to fight… her?” the pegasus asked, not sure if he could. Forest Rain’s expression turned frightened. Never in his life did he think he would be forced to fight anypony… let alone be thrown in a ring to be made sport of.

“Don't give me that look,” the prince chuckled. “She is not what you seem…” He then pointed his trident at the mermare and barked, “Show him your true form!” Despite his order, Urchin did not move. She only continued to glare at the prince.

(What is her deal with Mr. White Knight here?) Forest Rain wondered as he watched Urchin remain still.

“Show him your power… and I will give you more rations today,” the prince offered. Urchin twitched upon hearing the statement. Forest noticed the mermare frown for a fraction of a second, showing a sign of weakness. But even that didn't stop her from glaring at Tail Fin.

After a few moments of silence, the prince slowly turned the trident to Forest Rain. “If you don't change, I will torture our guest a little. I know how much you love watching others in pain…”

Forest Rain did hear Urchin speak, but it was muffled. His vision suddenly went blurry as his bubble was popped. He opened his mouth to take in a breath, but it filled up with water. Realizing what the prince had done, it was another pain inducing moment of drowning. It took a moment before Forest Rain’s lungs began to crave a breath of oxygen. His chest wanted to burst open itself and suck in something instinctively, but the pegasus had to fight the pain. Forest Rain began to struggle and his body began to squirm violently. Hatred flooded his veins more than the carbon-dioxide that was trying to escape. But as he writhed, the stallion looked and saw the prince and prisoner still standing at their original places. Forest Rain wondered what Tail Fin meant when he said to Urchin, ‘I know how much you love watching others in pain....’

Instinctively, the pegasus’ lungs sucked in, daring to let something helpful in. But water filled his body. Before he could be granted death, his breathing bubble engulfed his head. Forest Rain coughed out the water that he inhaled and it splashed his face before resting at the bottom of the bubble.

“Now I am sure you don’t want to endure that again now do we?” Tail Fin asked as if he was giving helpful advice. All Forest Rain cared about was taking in healthy breaths of air. But Forest Rain did notice that the prince was not speaking to him directly, but to Urchin. When the stallion did look at the mermare, she looked at him with pity. Sadness. As if there was no hope for him.

“So Urchin, if you would be so kind and transform. Show our guest that you are not what you appear to be…”

Removing herself from the hard metal, the mermare lurched forward. Her expression was a painful one. In horror, Forest Rain watched as Urchin’s body bulged-

“Faaaaaang!”

The sound of Coco Pommel’s voice made Fang twitch and quickly needed to find a way to dispose of the book he was reading. Remembering his task, he walked to the carriage door and tossed the book in and grabbed the bouquet of flowers. For a moment, the changeling looked at the lovely array of flowers with a frown, knowing the purpose behind them. But still, Fang knew that Chrysalis wants her friend to be happy and so does he.

The moment he turned around, Fang was greeted by three mares. The obvious two he knew. But the other one almost made the flowers he was holding catch fire.

“Hello Your Majesty, Coco,” he nodded with smiles. Fang did not, however, give Suri a passing glance. Coco may have forgiven her, but he has not. You may have turn coated for the better, Suri, Fang thought. But I still don’t like you…

Noticing the bouquet of flowers, Coco asked, “What are those flowers for?”

A smile grew on Fang’s face. “They are for you.”

Coco gasped as Fang hooved the bundle of petals and stems were given to her. Her blush matched the sweet pink shade of a tulip that rested at the center of the bouqcete.

“I… wanted to give this to you as a thank you for helping us,” Fang continued. “I also find you… very special.”

An “aww” escaped from Suri as she witnessed such a cute action unfolding before her. Chrysalis stood next to the stunned mare with a happy grin.

“What a kind gesture,” the queen spoke.

Coco’s glanced between her gift and Fang. She saw it in his eyes; Fang was very sincere about what he had just said and noticed a different color in his cheeks.

Even though Coco had a hoof full of flowers, she embraced the changeling. “Oh Fang!” she exclaimed with glee. “You are so sweet!” Unable to contain her happiness, the pony kissed Fang on the cheek. Suri, at the corner of her eye, saw Chrysalis frown the moment Coco kissed the changeling.

Coco removed herself from Fang and turned to the queen; her smile quickly returned when she saw Coco move. “You don't mind that he did this, right?”

“Why would I?” Chrysalis responded. “You helped us. So you deserve a happy night.”

The mare giggled at the compliment. “Thank you.”

With business handled, Coco asked, “So what shall we do until the gala begins?”

Scratching her chin, Chrysalis thought long and hard but came up dry. “Honestly, I am not to sure… I did not expect the sign ups to take such short time.”

“Yeah,” Coco imputed. “All it was was a sign your name and the two who will be wearing your dresses. The only thing we need to do is check in later this evening with our wearers before the contest begins.”

Chrysalis looked to Fang. “Do you have any ideas as to what we might do until this evening?”

“I don't Your Majesty.”

As Coco, Fang, and Chrysalis stood in silence trying to muster up a time killer, Suri spoke, “I have an idea.”

Not having a clue of what to do, the queen asks, “What do you have in mind?”

“You are in Canterlot! There are so many things you can do here!” Suri was almost too enthusiastic as she spoke. “There are museums and theaters and a lovely park and… just... so much things!”

Coco could understand Suri’s attitude. They were in Canterlot, perhaps the best location there is in all of Equestria. Many mares like herself want to come to this kingdom to live and make it big in the big white city. Not to mention, Canterlot was a filled to the brim of shops, tourist locations, landmarks, and plenty of other things.

But being a mare of action, Chrysalis said, “I know there are ‘so much things’ here at Canterlot. Of what of those many things would you like to do?”

All eyes were on the Suri now. While Coco looked at her with patience and a smile, the mare could feel Fang and Chrysalis practically staring right through her. She hated how the changelings were acting towards her, but disregarded any thoughts of arguing; they might be reading her mind as well.

“How about we go to the theater and see what is showing there?” Suri finally suggested.

A curious hum came from the queen. “Alright, we will go there and see if there is anything interesting.”

A wave of excited attitude filled Coco Pommel. She had always wanted to visit the Canterlot Theater. Many famous ponies have come from there and that is not just including actors or singers of the sort. Musicians, directors, stage decorators, critics, and even taylors have emerged from that place a success after getting a chance to be present themselves. Perhaps she may be able to work there for costume designs. After all, Coco now had to think of her future work; the employment with Chrysalis was concluded several days ago.

“I like the idea as well,” Coco agreed.

“Then let’s go,” Suri said, wanting to lead the way. The earth pony was expecting to walk and turned away from the others.

“You know you could ride with us,” Coco insisted. Suri turned back to see Chrysalis and Fang looking at her like they wish to no longer see her. The cream colored mare looked to Chrysalis and asked, “Is that okay with you?”

A smile came to the queen as her eyes fell upon Coco. “Yes it is.” Chrysalis gestured for Suri to enter the carriage. “Go on you two. Get in.”

Nervously but with haste, Suri climbed into the thing and Coco followed. Just as Chrysalis was about to enter the wagon, she blinked to Fang, I assume you did as asked?

I got a luxurious room at the Royal Palace for Coco.

Good work.

With nothing else to say, or blink, the queen climbed into the carriage. Using his magic, Fang closed the door, now standing alone. Taking in a deep breath, he sighed. And then frowned.

You do not have to remind me of what I must do after tonight my queen…

The Fateful Event: Melted by Children

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Ch.39

After arriving to the large Canterlot Theater, the four looked at what was showing. The only thing that was available was the Canterlot Philharmonic performance, featuring the Canterlot School of Gifted Unicorns Children’s Choir. Chrysalis decided to choose seeing the concert, knowing it will be several hours before it is finished.

When they bought their tickets, the four sat near the front of the stage. A big large curtain covered the stage. Coco could hear hoofsteps staple about behind them, knowing the ones behind the red blind were hustling to get ready for the show.

Coco turned to Fang who was to her right. “Have you been to a theater before?”

“No, this would be a first,” he answered.

To Coco’s left was Chrysalis and she looked at her and said the same thing. “Of course I have,” the changeling answered. “It has been years though…”

“What about you Suri?” Coco asked looking over Fang. The pink mare sat beside the big tooth changeling.

“I have, but not this one.”

After finishing her typical questionmare character, Coco looked around the theater and admired its glory. A massive mural of Celestia was painted on the ceiling. She was in front of a large yellow sun and posed like any celestial being should, pun intended.

Several boxes surrounded the stage, some having ponies sitting in them. Coco wished Chrysalis could have rented one to get a high view of the theater, but shrugged off the thought as a whatever.

Chatter filled the large room as finely dressed ponies entered and took their seat. Most of the ponies were unicorns in fine outfits and uniforms. But a few equines stood out like a sore hoof. Though they were few, Coco could tell they were tourists by noticing that some wore large bulky cameras dangling above their breasts. Others had a colorful visor as if to keep the future stage lights out of their eyes.

Despite that, they didn't bother Coco. In fact she preferred a mixed crowd anyways. Because of the city, the mare is used to everypony being rude and for themselves. And being a city mare, she knows how enthusiastic tourists can be.

“I’ll admit,” Chrysalis spoke, bringing Coco’s attention to her, “I am looking forward to listening to the children’s choir.”

“How come?”

“Because they have innocent little voices.” Chrysalis smiled at the thought. “It's lovely.”

Seeing how Coco and Chrysalis are discussing with one another, Suri looks to Fang and attempts to small talk with him. “So… What do you do for Your Majesty?”

“Protect her,” the changeling answered bluntly. Fang stared forward not wanting to glance at the pink mare. He looked at Coco to see if she was free for discussion, but she was busy talking to Chrysalis. The last thing Fang wanted to do was to interrupt his queen; a fatal error that would be.

Letting out a sigh, Fang finally looked to Suri and asked, “What has your last few days been like?”

“Like a new me has been born,” Suri responded with a small smile. “I thought about what Coco told me and… I realize that hurting others will only cause more hurt. You know?”

“Yeah…” For once, Suri saw a different emotion from the changeling. It was interesting to see him this way.

So there is a soul under that skin of his, Suri pondered. Wonder why the sudden mood swing?

Suddenly the lights dimmed in the theater. Just like the lights, so we're the voices of the ponies. A large spotlight flashed at the center of the stage almost blinding Coco Pommel, and perhaps anypony too close to the front. When her eyes adjusted, Coco saw a mare unicorn standing proudly, unaffected by the harsh brightness.

“Greetings!” The pony boomed. “And thank you for attending this day to enjoy Canterlot’s one and only philharmonic!”

***

Coco wondered how long she was sitting, listening to the concert of loud instruments. It wasn't like she was becoming board or hated any of it. She just wanted to know for the sake of knowing. Fang and Suri continued to stare forward with a liking to the music. As for Chrysalis, she was swaying her body slightly this way and that to the music as the songs went on. Coco couldn't argue that the queen was enjoying herself and was happy that she was.

A crescendo from the orchestra began. The conductor shook his thin baton as the violinists and cellists quickly played the same notes, increasing in volume. Coco was expecting a sudden conclusion with a “bu-dum!” from the orchestra. But the conductor’s white stick slowly came to a stop and the music came to a mute. She was about to clap but the baton wielding unicorn swung his obnoxious wand and caused the entire philharmonic to burst in a harmonious uproar. The sound almost made Coco’s heart jump out of her chest. If there is one thing she is growing to dislike about classical pieces is that they all seem to end on some loud note.

An applause came through the air, not near as loud as the philharmonic. Coco did clap out of courtesy as she did like the piece. But next time, she will have to cover her ears when she believes the song is about to conclude.

“I can see the music is startling you,” Chrysalis spoke with a smirk.

“I would enjoy it more if the songs did not end so loudly,” Coco grumbled.

A squeaking sound came from the stage and the two mares looked back; the curtains were beginning to close.

“I guess it is over,” Coco commented, ready to get out of her seat.

“Not just yet,” the queen commented. “We have the children's choir left.”

A wave of relief swept over the earth pony. “At least they won't be making sudden loud noises.”

“Children can be loud if they shout or scream.”

“You don't have to prove me wrong…” Coco’s ears pointed back with irritation.

“That's what happens when you talk with Your Majesty,” Chrysalis smirked.

Coco couldn't help but giggle at the joke her friend just made. It is easy for her to forget that Chrysalis was Queen Chrysalis.

The same unicorn who introduced herself at the beginning of the concert flashed onto the stage. The spotlight quickly flicked on and made the mare the center of attention.

“I am hoping that you are enjoying Equestira’s greatest philharmonic,” she boasted and her breast puffed outwards. Coco saw Chrysalis roll her eyes, a sign that she still does not appriciate other ponies than her own kind. “Before we begin, I would like to address something that marks this day as important.”

The earth pony knew what the unicorn was going to say. She looked to Chrysalis who wore a face of anger and hatred. To the left, Coco saw a familiar face on Fang’s. Was their defeat on the siege of Canterlot that crushing? she thought.

“As you know, the Grand Galloping Gala is being held at the Canterlot Castle this evening. But what makes this day even better is that today marks the day of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor’s anniversary, AND, their triumphant defeat of Queen Chrysalis and her disgusting changeling swarm!” the stage mare boasted. A large round of applause erupted from the theater. Coco clapped along, happy for the prince and princess, but couldn’t feel a bit hurt for her friends as the boastful stage mare called the changeling race ‘disgusting’. They were just… misunderstood.

Coco noticed neither Fang, nor Chrysalis clapped. They just wore their still faces of bottomless anger. Coco pumped her arm into Fang’s and grabbed his attention. His expression quickly evaporated as if water was pored onto his face and cooled his hot temper. Fang frowned as his friend gave him a look of disapproval. She did the same to Chrysalis, bumping her arm and giving a disapproving look. But Chrysalis did not look to her. The queen knew if she gazed at her friend, she would feel guilty of her action.

“I’m sorry,” Fang spoke low to Coco, even though his voice was easily swallowed by the still applauding crowd. “I’ll explain why the queen and I are angry later…” Coco didn’t want to hear it, but she knew Fang would tell her anyways. Besides, she would probably ask him later why the two were wearing such mean masks.

After the crowd finished their clapping, the mare onstage resumed, “In fact, the lovely leaders of the Crystal Empire are here as well!”

The mare gestured a box to her right and the spotlight sped over to the one closest to the stage. And there they were, both Princess Cadence and Shining Armor. The couple seemed a little blinded by the bright stage light, but waved politely back as the audience clapped loudly once more. But there was another pony sitting beside them.

“Oh! And it looks like Princess Celestia has joined them as well!” the stage mare spoke over the crowd, but they heard her, causing them to cheer even louder. Princess Celestia waved a bit before resting back in her seat. As Coco stared up at the three important ponies sitting high above, she didn’t want to glance at Chrysalis or Fang. She just wanted to leave them to their angry attitudes and confront them later. Now was not the time to make a scene.

As the tide of noise subsided, the unicorn on stage spoke, “But despite how crewel the Queen of Changelings has been portrayed by many who witnessed her, a child told me something about her. He said that she may be an ice queen, but there might be a way to melt away that meanness in her.” Coco couldn’t help but look to her friend. And to her surprise, Chryslais looked interested into the stage mare’s words. “So, I wish to say this: If you are here Chrysalis trying to exact revenge on this day… If you are here to feed off of us with your changeling kind… then be melted by these children. May I present! The School of Gifted Unicorns Children’s Orchestra!”

It was as if the ponies of Canterlot knew of Chrysalis’ scheme. Coco looked to her friend to see if she was in any way worried. But the queen clapped along with the others as the stage curtain was pulled away, revealing the children that stood behind it.

How could she be calm!? The mare just practically called you out! Coco looked to see if Fang was concerned by the comment, but he too wore a still facade as his queen.

Realizing that they could care less about their call out, the cream pony turned to face the tiny unicorns. The adorable children were fitted into cute, formal dresses.

They sang several songs, none of which seemed to "melt" Chrysalis. But the children’s voices did make Coco’s eyes tear up. Fang did notice her glassy eyes, but held back on comforting her; he didn't want to make his queen think he was falling in love with her.

After the fourth song had concluded, as well as another cheer from the audience, a small filly walked forward from the grouped children. And the child was very small by comparison to the other unicorns. But still, the girl walked with pride in her steps. Her light-blue body glittered like the sun on a lake bed and her sapphire mane did the same. That's when Coco realized that the unicorn was a crystal pony.

Standing at the front of the stage and spotlight on top of her, the filly began to sing. And the moment Chrysalis heard the filly’s voice, she froze… And her heart began to melt.

As I lay in bed,
Prayers are now said,
My mother sits near me,

She says, “Fear not dear,
Darkness won’t come near,
For when the daylight comes,”

“You’ll rise your little eyes,
Your head will face the skies,
Spread your wings wide
And do not hide,
For I’ll watch you from high.”

Coco saw at the corner of her eye Chrysalis crying. Her composed face was cracked and wounded with sadness. The pony reached for her friend’s hoof and grasped it. The queen turned her head to Coco and whispered with a smile, “I sung this lullaby to Beauty Fly many times.” Coco took a breath to reply, but the filly resumed her singing:

“I come home one day,
Hiding in the hay,
Scared of her scolding.

When she finds me there,
I hear not a swear,
Only these sweet words:

‘Please rise your little eyes,
Your head will face the skies,
Spread your wings wide
And do not hide,
For I’ll watch you from high.’

‘I’ll will never leave you to be cold,
I’ll stand up for you brave and bold,
I’ll keep you safe until you’re old,
I’ll love you until…’,

As you lay in bed,
Heaviness and dread,
For you are close to pass,

As you look to me,
And smile with glee
One final breath you say…

‘Goodbye…’”

The filly paused briefly, projected her voice to a higher tone, breaking even Coco.

“I’ll rise my little eyes,
My head will face the skies,
Mom spread your wings wide
And I will not hide,
So you’ll watch me from high.”

There was no sound when the girl finished her singing. She looked out to the crowd expecting a cheer. Clapping. A sound. But everypony was in mute. Until…

“Bravo!” Chrysalis called to the performer as tears fell from her eyes and a grin of white teeth that could only be described as a bright smile. “Bravo!” she repeated.

In an instant, the entire theater cried out in a loud applause. Every equine was standing, cheering, whistling, clapping, stomping, doing anything else that could be considered a cheerful and loud noise. Overwhelmed by the positivity, the little filly’s eyes filled with tears and her mouth writhed into a flustered smile. She bowed with pride, and that caused the cheering ponies to grow cry even louder.

Coco looked around to see not a dry face. Everypony had a streak of water running down their face. Even Fang couldn’t evaporate his own tears. Coco bumped into him and took an arm without the changeling’s content, wrapping hers around his. But Fang didn’t care. In fact he needed it. It was a sad song, but it reminds him of his own mother and how much she loves and cares for him and his brother.

The curtain closed in front of the child before she could react. After a few moments pass and the entire philharmonic, along with the children’s choir, stood on stage, taking their bows.

Finishing their clapping, Chrysalis spoke to Coco, “If I didn’t know any better, I might assume you might be the queen of changelings.”

After sniffling and wiping her tears, the pony asked, “What makes you say that?”

“Because you look like the melted ice queen.”

Coco rolled her eyes as she knew the truth to Your Majesty. No longer having to sit in their seats, ponies began to get up from their seats, leaving the theater. Looking to the stage, Coco noticed Princess Celestia speaking to the musicians, along with Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. She wondered if Chrysalis would get upset because of her presence. But instead, the changeling stood up with a smile.

“I will be right back,” she said.

Fang’s ears perked up as his leader walked out of their aisle and toward the stage. “Where is she going?”

“I… don’t know…” Coco answered calmly.

Standing up from her own seat, Suri spoke to Fang and Coco, “Well I enjoyed that a lot.”

“As did I,” the cream mare responded. Coco looked at Fang and asked, “Did you?”

“It was enjoyable,” he blandly commented.

Feeling that there is nothing left for her to do, Suri began to make her leave. “I am off until tonight. I will see you three later.”

“Okay! Goodbye!”

Now Fang and Coco stood on their own. Coco took her attention to the stage and saw Chrysalis approach the stage. The moment she caught Princess Celestia’s attention, the alicorn bowed quickly and struck her forehead on the floor. Chrysalis began to laugh loudly and made onlookers gazed with confusion. Only after speaking a few words and an arm gesture, both princesses and the prince looked to Coco. The attention caught the mare off guard and she pushed herself against Fang.

“Don’t worry,” Fang reassured, noticing her shocked attitude. “It’s just the two princesses and one prince.”

“How could you say that so calmly?! Those three are leaders!”

“I happen to guard her,” Fang gestured to Chrysalis. “I am not intimidated by other rulers.”

“I suppose you are not, but you have to remember that I am just a tailor.”

The changeling laughed a little. “You are more than just a tailor and you know that,” Fang smiled. Blush bled onto Coco’s cheeks and as she took the compliment.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” her ears fell back in embarrassment.

“Let’s not ask questions right now,” Fang responded, looking away to hide his now redder face from the mare.

“Can you two come forward?” a voice spoke from the stage. To her surprise, the regal princess looked at Coco and was gesturing her forward. Cadence and Shining Armor looked to them with smiles as well with Chrysalis. The queen now stood onstage beside the other three as well. When Chrysalis got up on stage, Coco didn’t know.

Aside from having important ponies staring at her, Coco couldn’t help but feel uneasy. She knows that Chrysalis was the one who invaded Canterlot with her changeling army. And now that very same changing responsible for that act is now right in front of them. And that very same changeling has a personal grudge against Princess Celestia; maybe against Shining Armor and Princess Cadence as well…

But complying with the request, Coco went onto the front of the stage and Fang followed in suit. Most of the ponies that were on stage before were already gone and the theater had very few audience members left. Those who remained in the crowd stayed to continue looking at the princesses and prince. “Hello,” the earth pony shyly answered, her eyes glancing between Celestia and Chrysalis. “It’s nice to see you again.”

“I can say the same, Miss Pommel,” Celestia nodded.

“Did you enjoy the performance?” Princess Cadence asked Coco.

“Oh very much. I couldn’t help but tear up.”

“Don’t worry, I did cry myself,” Cadence admitted. The mare looked around to try and find the child who performed her solo, but had no luck in finding her. “That filly was quite the singer.”

Celestia let out a soft chuckle, “I just had a thought: if Chrysalis were to be in the crowd, it would be hard to tell who she was. I didn’t see a dry eye.” Coco laughed along with the others as the princess cracked a joke about Chrysalis. But the only one who didn’t even bother to grin was Shining Armor and Coco noticed the prince’s disgruntled attitude. He just stared at their group unamused.

“Oh honey,” Cadence finally noticed her husband’s grumpy expression. “It’s just a joke.” She seemed to already know what was going through his mind.

“I just…” Shining Armor sounded like he had been defeated in a bitter battle. Looking away from his wife, the white equine’s ears darted back at her. “...I don’t like to remember that I lost you… I don’t like-” He cut himself short not wanting to continue and looked back to Cadence. “Can we not talk about this today? I’d rather not worry about another changeling infiltra-”

Cadence was quick; quicker than Fang has ever been to Coco when she had a dark cloud looming over her head. She was right at her husband’s side and her muzzle was pressed up against Shining Armor’s own. “Don’t worry,” she whispered loud enough for Coco to hear; Coco was unsure if the others did. “I’m positive it won’t happen again.”

The cream pony was having a hard time keeping a strong composure in front of the couple as Cadence spoke her words. Coco Pommel couldn’t help but feel guilty as she knowingly stood by two changelings. It hurt her to see what pain Chrysalis and her hive had done to the handsome stallion. Though she tried to hide it, Fang saw through her disturbed facade and pressed against Coco. He gave her no glance when he did but the mare looked at him with a smile.

To the side, the changeling queen noticed her friend’s bothered attitude and knew what her friend was feeling. Oh Coco… Chrysalis thought to herself with a sad heart. If only you could have not befriended us and weren’t dragged into my personal affair... In her peripheral, the queen saw Celestia staring at Cadence and Shining Armor with a warm smile, happy to see the wife comforting her lover. I swear Celestia! If Coco Pommel gets dragged into our queral and you dare threaten her, you will rue the day you stood in my presence!

“I think we need to liven up the atmosphere for the prince and princess,” Chrysalis spoke aloud, grabbing all the attention she could. Looking to Celestia, the queen asked, “What do you say?”

“I think that is a great idea,” Celestia agreed. “What do you say?” she questioned Shining Armor.

His mood seemed to changed dramatically as several mares attempted to brighten his day. “I think that would be swell.” Shining Armor didn’t have to ask his wife if she wanted to cheer him up. She already did. “What are we going to do to make today a little brighter?”

“We can all walk about the city and make a day of it,” Celestia suggested. All nodded with agreement. All except Coco Pommel. She couldn’t help but feel guilty and didn’t want to be around any of the important ponies any longer. If she did, the poor mare may snap.

“I… wish to decline the offer and be on my own,” Coco spoke shyly, her ears finally showing some of her true emotion.

“Are you sure?” Shining Armor asked in a handsome tone. “A lovely mare like you certainly deserves to be in the presence of royalty.” The statement made Fang clear his throat as if to make it clear that Coco was his. But Shining Armor either didn’t hear the sound or didn’t want to acknowledge the “challenge.”

Trust me… you don’t want me around. “Thank you, but I just want to be off on my own for a bit,” the pony answered, trying to find a way out of her time with Celestia and other important ponies. Most mares would be more than happy to spend the day with a prince. But to Coco, that prince was bothered by her close friend and couldn’t stand being around him knowing that fact. “Besides, I may talk your ear off by and pummel you with silly questions.”

“We won’t force you to join us,” Princess Cadence said in a calm tone. Looking to Chrysalis, she asked, “If your friend isn’t joining us, will you not be as well?”

Chrysalis and Coco looked at each other, wanting to talk about personal matters aloud. Coco wanted to scream at her friend, telling her now is the time to befriend Celestia. But Chrysalis already knew that. She made a promise with Coco. And she was going to fulfill that promise. “I will be spending my time with you three. My friend likes to be off in her own world and ponder things.” It was a lie, but it was a nice lie that was a good enough excuse for Coco not to go. “Besides, it’s not everyday a mare like myself gets to spend time with royalty.”

“And it is not everyday a princess like myself get’s to spend time with Your Majesty,” Celestia chuckled. Chrysalis couldn’t help but laugh at the alicorn’s joke.

“I will be staying with Coco,” Fang finally spoke. The thought of him being alone with herself was perfect for Coco. She needed to vent to him.

“Very well,” Celestia nodded.

Coco looked to Chrysalis to speak but was cut off by the queen, “I will see you at the gala later tonight.”

“Just look for me and you will find her,” Celestia added.

A fake look of shock came from the changeling. “You wish for me to occupy your time for the rest of the day!?”

“Of course Your Majesty.” Chrysalis grinned widely as Celestia spoke her fake name. She must enjoy being called that by the princess.

Looking back to her friend, still holding onto her smile, Chrysalis said, “You heard her, she and I will be together until this evening. I think we are going to become close friends after tonight.”

“It would be nice, yes,” Celestia commented with a nod.

Coco couldn't believe how easy it was to get Chrysalis within Celestia’s vicinity. The night has not even started and fate has already found a way to get them to become friends. Maybe.

Coco nodded with a happy smile. “I do hope you get along.”

“Oh I don't think we have to worry about that Coco,” Celestia spoke. “I'm sure we'll be friends for a long time.”

“That would be nice…” Chrysalis answered quietly. Coco noticed her friend tilt her head down slightly and a shadow fell across her face. “Let's see what happens first.”

A cold shiver ran down Coco’s spine and the guilt gripped at her heart once more. Quickly she turned around, unable to look at anyone's face. “I'll be going now.”

Without giving Fang time to adjust, the earth pony briskly walked off stage and to the exit. By the time Fang caught up with her, they were outside.

“Is something the matter?” Fang asked caringly as Coco looked away from him. “You were acting strange back there…”

It took a few quiet seconds before Coco turned to him and spoke. “Oh Fang…” The changeling gasped as he watched his friend’s face writhe with sadness. “H-how can you always tell when something is wrong?” she choked over her tears.

The Fateful Event: The Breast Flame

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Ch. 40

To Coco, it felt like the entire world was staring at her as she couldn't hold back her tears or guilt. But to her fortune, only Fang sat beside her. Alone in the Canterlot Community Park.

Looking around, Fang could see nopony within their vicinity. Hopefully, he could now talk to the pony in distress. “So now that we are alone, why don't you tell me what is wrong?”

But the only thing the changeling was given was silence. How could somepony as beautiful as the queen look so upset? Fang frowned in thought, admiring the dressed mare. Even though he greatly disliked Suri Polomare, the changeling could not disagree that Coco’s outfit was beyond amazing. So perhaps giving Suri a second chance made two mares look better.

Still wanting to get an answer out of Coco, Fang continued to pursue. “You told me you wanted to talk somewhere private. Now is the time.”

Coco knew she had to tell him eventually. To tell him about her guilt. Might as well tell him now. “I just… feel bad,” she muttered, scared somepony would be listening.

“About what may I ask?”

Coco finally made eye contact with Fang. “For Shining Armor…”

The changeling knew where the conversation was headed. “You mean about the Canterlot Invasion,” he spoke low.

“Yeah-” The memory of the prince’s sad frown was burned in her mind. “He looked so broken as he remembered… you know.”

“I understand why you would feel sorry for him, but why has it made you so upset?”

Being the questionmare that she is, Coco countered with another questing. “How do stand in front of somepony and lie to them with a straight face? How could you stand in front of the one who you hurt and not even feel sorry?” At this point, Fang is beginning to see the reason behind his friend’s attitude. Her brows were creased not in anger, but frustration. And her eyes were wide with guilt.

“It’s because…” Fang spoke slowly, trying to think of an answer that won't upset the pony. But he sighed and had to answer full heartedly. “It's to keep the truth hidden. Changelings need to put emotions aside sometimes and do what is right, even if it is wrong.”

“Well I can't!” Coco spat. “I can't just stand in front of Princess Celestia, Princess Cadence, or Shining Armor, knowing that there are two changelings before them. And I also can't just not feel sorry. I hate to say it but I am not like you-”

The words came out too quickly and Coco couldn't stop them. Fang flinched as the words stabbed at his eardrums and his heart.

“I- I didn't mean-” Coco stumbled over her words but a lump in her throat robbed the mare’s ability to speak.

“You are just frustrated.” Fang smiled, knowing that Coco does not think harshly against changelings. However, the comment she had just said still hurt.

Coco looked around to see if there were other ponies who might be in earshot of her conversation. Thankfully, there were none that she could see, so she resumed her venting. “I feel like a spy. I feel like a traitor. I feel like an enemy. And I hate it…” Coco gave up on trying to prevent the throat lump to cause her to sob some more. It was just too hard on her throat.

“But you are not any of those things,” Fang reassured, scooting in close to the mare. When he got close enough, Coco leaned into him. “You are a friend to Queen Chrysalis and are trying to help her speak her mind to Celestia.”

Coco was now more relaxed, but Fang’s words didn't change her mood. “But Chrysalis said that when she pulls the princess and I aside tonight, she expects me to pretend that I didn't know she was a changeling.”

Puzzled, Fang asked, “Why would she make you do that?”

“I don't know… I just don't want to lie anymore. I may not have lied a lot recently, but I don't think I can much longer for today…”

Looking down at his friend, Fang frowned as his friend stared forward. He couldn't tell what she was looking at or where. But still, he needed to think of something to cheer up his friend. Fang knows he can do it. After all, he has done it before.

“Don't think of it as lying,” Fang finally spoke, breaking Coco’s focus on whatever her vision was locked on.

“Then how should I think about it?” Coco stared at Fang expecting a ridiculous answer.

Fang gave a warm smile that practically radiated heat. “Think of it as keeping a secret. You are not lying so long as no one talks about us.” The changeling watched Coco’s look around in thought.

“I guess that could help ease my conscious.”

“Exactly! And there is nothing wrong with that so long as no one is hurt-”

Realizing what he said, Fang watched Coco frowned once more. “I do hope no one is hurt tonight.

Good work Fang… You made things worse for Coco. However, despite his improper use of words, the pony leaned more weight onto Fang. “I appreciate you trying to cheer me up,” she spoke softly. “That is at least making me feel… comfortable. I just wish things were different between changelings and ponies. That's all.” Fang could only nod for an answer. “I wonder what would happen if things don't go according to plan. What do you think would happen?”

As if influenced with her wandering mind, Fang’s heart cramped at the thought. If he, his queen, and the others would be found out, there would be pandamonium. No love would be collected. Canterlot may try to take extra measures to prevent a changeling from disguising across Equestria. And Coco-

Fang had to look the other way as his eyes widened in fear. What if Celestia finds out that Coco has been associating with changeling's and is interrogated?!

Suddenly, Chrysalis’ decision on having Fang not get too close to Coco was making sense. Coco Pommel was just a simple earth pony, whose profession was being a simple tailor. She was in no condition or in the mind set to be dragged into his queen’s business. Coco does not deserve to be stressed about Queen Chrysalis’ grudge against Celestia. Fang was now witnessing the effects it was having on his friend and knows she doesn't deserve to worry or feel pain. She deserves a happy life.

“I don't think we need to worry about that,” Fang finally answered, knowing it could very well be a lie. He faced Coco and her eyes met with his. “None of the changelings will be revealing themselves tonight. Well, aside from Chrysalis. I just have a good feeling nothing catastrophic will happen tonight.”

Quickly, Coco sat upright, her attitude much different. “You know,” she started, “you are right!” A smile grew onto Coco’s face and Fang grinned at the sight of it. “I need to not think about questions that have no answers yet. I just need to see how things play out is all.”

“Glad to see that you are taking my advice from yesterday,” Fang smirked.

Another question suddenly surfaced in Coco’s mind but it quickly sank. She was about to ask Fang why he and Chrysalis looked so angry at Princess Celestia at the concert hall. But she already knew the answer: Celestia had brought pain to the Queen of Changelings. I just hope no one has to fight tonight…

“So Coco,” Fang said suddenly, breaking Coco’s questionmare thoughts. He looked hesitant to say what was on his mind, but was bent on saying it anyways. “Why don't we go back to the carriage and read that book together.” It will also keep you from thinking about ridiculous questions.

A silly smirk grew on the pony’s face. “Is this an excuse to sit close to me?”

At that very moment, Fang could not deny it anymore. A flame he had never felt before sparked to life in his breast. He never thought it would happen, but it did.

“Maybe,” he blushed.

He was in love with Coco Pommel. And he hated himself for it, for his queen will not be pleased.

The Fateful Event: Scented Flavor

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Ch. 41

The sound of whispers stirred Forest Rain from his sleep. When he became conscious, the cold water surrounding him gripped him to the bone and he shivered intensely. Whether he was shaking in his sleep, Forest Rain did not know. But still, the pegasus slowly cracked his eyes open to see another mermare staring into Urchin's cell.

The light was very dim, mimicking the illusion of night. Maybe it was, but time didn’t matter to the stallion at the moment.

“Urchin!” the mermare whispered a little louder. Slowly, the prisoner moved from her fetal position to the bars of her empty room. “I have brought you some of your favorite foods sister.”

(SISTER!) The statement alone almost made Forest Rain twitch in shock. But he had to remain still. No need to let the two know he is conscious. Reaching into the basket the free mermare was holding, she gave Urchin a spherical food that Forest Rain could only assume was a fruit.

Urchin slowly bit into the food and hummed as the sweetness of it ran across her tastebuds. Even with the poor lighting, Forest saw the prisoner frowning. “Are these from the garden?” Urchin asked, pointing to the basket.

“Yes sister.” Another crunch rang throughout the prison as Urchin bit into the fruit. “You know, you wouldn’t be in here if you weren’t trying to create magical artifacts.”

No longer calm, Urchin lurched her head at her sister and spoke loudly, “Are you really going to bring that up again Pearl!? I already told you, our treacherous brother requested me to do them in secret!”

“I just want you to recognize the severity of your crime…” Pearly shyly looked behind her, afraid of the sibling’s vicious glare and gazed at Forest Rain. He quickly closed his eyes to fake being in slumber. “You don’t have to pretend you are asleep. My sister can get very loud and wake the entire palace if she wanted to.”

Instead of hiding in his sleeping position, Forest Rain lifted his head and opened his eyes only to look at Urchin. She held the small portion of her food between her hooves, irritated that he is awake. Perhaps angry because he might have been listening.

“So,” Forest Rain began, “you created magical artifacts?”

“She did,” Pearl answered for her sister, looking even more sad. Urchin leered at her sibling for answering the question for her.

Forest Rain couldn't help but feel shocked. He knew that creating magical artifacts was not just forbidden magic. It was a taboo. Everypony who picked up a magic book eventually found out that enchanting any object was bad.

The practice was also dangerous. Just trying to make any type of enchantment will most likely backfire in an explosion, or worse… cause a mutation. And that is what Forest Rain could only assume; Urchin attempted an enchantment that allows her to turn into a hideous creature.

“Why does it concern you if I did,” Urchin barked back at the pegasus. “By the time you step hoof into the arena with me, I will destroy you quickly…”

A cold shiver ran down the back of Forest Rain, reminding him he has to fight her. And he is also reminded of what she can do: Urchin can morph into a hideous monster!

Despite her words, Forest Rain could see it in the mermare’s eyes that she does not want to go through with destroying him. He remembered what Tail Fin said to her earlier: (I know how much you love to watch others in pain.) Forest Rain knew that was a lie.

“Umm… about that sister,” Pearl spoke softly.

“About what? Me destroying that pegasus?”

“Yes. Brother has-”

“You mean that spineless sponge of a sibling we have!” It was easy to tell that Urchin did not like her brother, at least, not anymore.

“A-anyways…” Pearl was trying to brush the insult aside but it still stung. Pearl obviously cares about both her brother and sister and dislikes their qualm among each other. “...our… brother is finding your combat with prisoners too hasty.”

“And…” Urchin gave Forest Rain an uneasy look as he did the same.

“He wishes to have your new opponent use one of your enchanted items against you to make the fight more entertaining.”

The captive mermare gripped the bars as her eyes widened. “Which one does he plan on having him use!?”

“The trident,” Pearl answered quietly.

With no warning, Urchin transformed into her horrendous monster form. Her new appearance had her entire body the same color as her as her tail and mane was all the same. But Urchin’s body was more bulky and now wore four legs instead of two. Another feature was her sharp teeth ready to shred anything unfortunate to get within her reach. Her tail was the only part of her that was perhaps the same size as before. Nonetheless, it was still a horror to witness.

However, Forest Rain could see a different type of emotion Urchin commonly displayed when she stared at him.

Fear.

Suddenly, the captive mermare slammed her cranium hard on the metal bars, ringing a loud “tong!” in the water. Forest Rain thought she might be able to break out considering how hard she struck it. But the metal bars didn't even seem to be bothered, nor moved by the hard clash of bone on metal.

This time, Urchin swung her body and hip checked the bars, then the walls, desperately trying to dent her prison. However, everything held strong. Everything except Urchin’s wits.

Forest Rain watched his soon-to-be opponent throw a harsh fit in terror while her sister witnessed in sadness.

“That brother of ours needs to suffer like I have!” Urchin cursed loudly, shaking everything with every crash she made against any surface. “He told me he would protect my studies! And it was not my fault my experiment backfired against his betrothed! He wanted to try it on her!”

“You still should have not done any enchanting, whether he told you to do it or not,” Pearl squeaked over the loud rumbling.

In a loud cry of anger, the monster screamed, “LEAVE MY SIGHT SISTER! I WISH TO NOT HEAR NOR SEE YOU ANYMORE!”

In a quick dash, Pearl fled and sounded like she was sobbing. Slowly, Urchin returned to her original form and swam into a corner and laid down.

Forest Rain tried to understand what had just happened and wondered if he could have helped them. From his perspective, the stallion then noticed Urchin’s body quivering. Then heard huffing. The mermare was crying.

“Please make it easy on us both and not retaliate when we fight tomorrow?” Urchin spoke coldly with her words before taking in a deep breath and sighing.

“W-why?” Forest Rain asked with hesitation.

“Because if… you touch the trident… with your bare hooves… it will…

An almost sarcastic yawn escaped Coco Pommel as she tried to continue reading aloud. Fang sat next to her as he peered into the book, and was now distracted by the mare’s sleepy expression. “Tired of reading?” Fang asked.

After stretching out her back, Coco rested her back against the carriage’s back cushion and relaxed her shoulders. “Perhaps I am tired as a whole.” Placing the book down and scooting it away, Coco tried to look at Fang amused and not exhausted. But her drooping eyes said otherwise.

“Would it be alright if I rested until tonight?” Coco didn’t make eye contact, but Fang knew she didn’t want to be rude and think he was boring to her.

“Sleep all you like,” Fang reassured. “Who knows how long tonight may go on for.”

Scooting closer to him, Coco rested her head on his shoulder. Her swift motion made Fang’s heart pound in his chest. He was slightly worried that it beat loud enough to hear. “Can you keep me warm while I rest?”

Fang looked to the window with a flustered grin. The sun bled into the cart bright enough to keep Coco from looking at his blushing cheeks. “What kind of questionmare question is that?”

Coco got even closer to Fang, her heart racing when she did. “A typical one,” she giggled.

Just like light itself, not a single sound was made after those last words. Only Fang sat with his eyes wide open, looking around at nothing in particular. The only thing that was grabbing his attention was the love wafting off of Coco, the one he now loved. The flavor was so wonderful that it concerned the changeling. He wondered if he would become addicted to his food. Or worse; become like his brother. Never satisfied. Always hungry.

Something Fang hated about his brother.

In his peripheral, the lovely pink rose that was placed in Coco’s mane rested with such beauty. Fang remembered the moment he gave Coco the flower and slightly remembered his queen's wrath more when she found out that the rose he use was from her daughter's garden. The sunlight shined onto it, showing beams of light reflecting off of the dancing particles in the air. Fang turned his head to smell it so he could amuse himself for a moment. He took a silent breath through his nostrils to take in the scent of the flower. And to his shock, the smell along with the flavor of love engulfed Fang in euphoria.

Such a combination of the two, along with his personal emotions toward Coco, was almost too much for Fang to bare. He had no choice but to turn away. Least he might get carried away and do something… rash. Like confessing his love. That would end in tragedy and Fang knew that.

A small snore escaped Coco’s mouth. She was now asleep and the love ceased its movement. No more food for the changeling.

The Fateful Event: Swallowing Voices

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Ch. 42

Several hours drifted by as Fang sat in silence with Coco resting at his side. Though his eyes were closed, the changeling was wide awake as he thought about how the night was going to play out. Many different scenarios ran through his mind, both best and worst. The worst possibilities was not something Fang wanted to think about, but being a changeling meant you had to think as events went on.

Of course the best scenario was having Queen Chrysalis and Celestia have an understanding with each other, AND confess his love to Coco Pommel under the moonlight. But Fang couldn’t dwell on what if factors. He has to face reality and understand that not everything has been set in motion. All he can do is hope the best scenario becomes the best reality.

The sun was now beginning to set. It seems that the princess who moves the sun is getting to work. It is time Fang did the same.

The pony to his side looked so peaceful as she slept. Coco was breathing slowly and her mouth was slightly parted open. It bothered Fang that he had to wake her but it was now time to head to the gala.

A gentle push to the shoulder was enough to awaken the mare. “It’s time to go to the gala,” Fang spoke softly.

Despite his efforts, Coco Pommel let out an irritated grumble. “Can we go in a few minutes?”

“I would, but tonight is very important to you and I. We need to meet up with the queen.”

Sitting upright, the pony stretched out her back before fully opening her eyes to look at her friend. “Thanks for letting me rest.”

“Your welcome Coco,” Fang replied with a nod.

The mare didn’t have the happiest expression when Fang responded. “I’m sorry that you had to bore yourself by having to just sit there in silence…”

Fang could only chuckle to the comment. “You don’t need to worry about that Coco. I’m the queen’s personal guard. I have stood in place for hours on end just by her side. Honestly, I should be honored to be by her side most of the time. And…” The changeling didn’t bother hiding his red cheeks. “...it is an honor to have you by my side. To have the one who has spoken to Queen Chrysalis in so many ways that no changeling has ever done before. To have her friend wanting to be so close to me is twice as honorable.”

A playful giggle escaped Coco as she bumped into Fang. Blush bled onto the mare’s face as she took in the complement. “Oh stop. I am just a simple fashion designer.”

“Your profession has nothing to do with your personality. You are great because of who you are.” Fang let out an irritated sigh. “Must you always lower yourself when I compliment you.”

“N-no. I just don’t value myself so highly. I’m modest is all.”

“Then what are you going to do tonight if somepony approaches you tonight and asks you about your career? Are you going to tell them that you are just some normal run-at-the-mill mare who makes dresses?”

Coco was quiet for she knew the answer. “Of course I won’t just tell them that. It’s just hard to take a compliment after what Suri once used to do to me. Always telling me her work was better than mine and all I was was average.”

“I had a feeling it had something to do with her,” Fang scowled. And somehow you forgave that hurtful mare…

“But you are right,” Coco reassured. “I will try and take compliments a little better.” The mare leaned into the changeling and spoke into his ear, “Just don’t expect me to become cocky either or… hot headed like you can get.”

As Coco was against Fang, he noticed her head was no his shoulder. “I’m not always hot headed. I can do other forms of magic.”

“Like what?”

Fang looked down at the pony with a mischievous glint in his eye. “I can do a freezing ability called the cold shoulder.” In one swift motion, the changeling sat up and got out of his seat. Coco didn’t have time to react and fell over, her face planting into the seat’s cushion.

“H-hey!” the pony whined as she looked up .

“I wasn’t lying,” Fang replied with a toothy smile.

Playing along with the antics, Coco scrambled to get up. “You are going to get it!” Before she had the chance to chase Fang out of the carriage, he was already outside.

“I’ll let you know when we are there,” he barked inside at Coco before slamming the door.

***

The cart started and stopped its motion as Coco made her way to the Canterlot Castle. The mare could see that there was quite a lot of carriages on the road which was no surprise to Coco. As for Fang, he was struggling to make the trek to the castle. Other drivers tended to cut him off when he allowed too much space in front of him. The changeling wanted to spit out a few swears, in some cases he did, but Fang realized his words fell on deaf ears. At least so far nopony cared for his insults. Perhaps it was a good thing. If he got into a tussle with another pony, it may jeopardize the entire mission.

Finally getting to the parking location, Fang opened the door and Coco emerged from the carriage. She looked around to see other wagons that were in better condition and had much better appeal to them. Perhaps an upgrade for the changeling’s wagon was in consideration.

“Geeze,” Fang grumbled as Coco touched ground. “Are ponies normally that rude when the road is full of horse drawn carriages?”

“Trust me, the city is much worse.” Coco reached out her hoof and placed it on the changeling’s shoulder. “You had it easy.”

“Doesn’t mean I liked it…”

Finished with their short conversation, Coco and Fang were now on their way to the castle entrance. They would have been lost if it were not for the signs that pointed to the front. Coco was in awe as she saw the castle looming over her. The white stone structure shined against the setting sun like glittering marble. And the towers with their pointed roofs looked like tall spears piercing the sky. Several flags waved through the air, perhaps representing the royal colors of the Regal Sisters; but the sun was too bright for Coco to see the patterns.

None of this was spectacular to Fang at all. He has seen it all before, especially during the Canterlot Siege. Several guards stood at the top of the staircase with mean gazes looking out for trouble. The changeling couldn’t help but give them the same stare the guards did to every pony that entered the royal palace.

Once inside, Fang heard Coco gasp once again. She looked at everything, not giving herself enough time to take it all in as her eyes darted around. The many paintings. The number of ponies. The large sparkling chandelier. The staircase that lead to other parts of the castle. It was all too much!

“Relax Coco,” Fang spoke trying to calm his friend down from her excitement. But it was impossible for Coco. This was… the… Grand Galloping Gala! Every mare wishes to go to this glorious event. Many celebrities, business owners, and overall important ponies come for this one night. Coco was blinded by the fact that there was a fashion contest held tonight that she forgot what she was attending in the first place. And speaking of the contest and business owners, this event may be Coco’s way back into the fashion industry.

Coco looked at Fang who wore the outfit she made several days ago. Not only was he the one who offered the job to her. He introduced her to the misunderstood queen who allowed her to continue pursuing her dream. And all it took was Inferno Fang overhearing Coco having some small talk about fashion when she was working at a coffee shop several days before this one.

“Thank you Fang,” Coco said to him with a happy smile. She pulled him in close as he stood slightly confused, but glad for the compliment. Fang could only assume what brought on the complement as a thank you for everything, but didn’t let it sit in his mind for long.

But now something important needed to be addressed: where is Queen Chrysalis? Coco and Fang looked at each other with the same thought in mind.

To their right by the staircase, a white pegasus guard stood watch. Coco needed to ask him a question. Maybe two. “Excuse me,” she spoke aloud to him, “do you know where Princess Celestia may be? She is with a friend of ours.”

Only the pegasus’ eyes moved to look at Coco. “No.”

The blunt attitude took Coco slightly aback, not sure how to take the response. “Do you know when she will be here?”

“Sometime tonight Miss.”

Fang nudged Coco’s side, telling her he now needed to talk to the guardspony. “Princess Celestia has a unicorn accompanying her by the name of Your Majesty.”

Suddenly the guard tensed up. “Your name?”

“Inferno Fang.” The changeling gestured to his friend. “And this is Coco Pommel.”

After eyeing the two of them over, he finally answered, “She is lowering the sun currently as you might have already seen. Princess Celestia will be standing at the top of these stairs to greet the guests once twilight has passed. She will be expecting to see you two.”

“Thank you,” Fang nodded. “You’re doing a fine job. I’m sure you have everyone asking you where the princess is.”

The guard dropped his stiff attitude and spoke casually, “You don’t know the half of how many ponies come and ask me where Princess Celestia is, expecting me to know her exact whereabouts.”

“Don’t worry, I understand.”

Coco watched the two stallions chuckle at their inside joke, not finding any humor at all. But she was glad to finally have information that she wanted thanks to Fang. She let them talk among themselves as she looked at the top of the staircase. Princess Celestia will be waiting for her and Fang once it is fully nighttime. Coco glanced at a large window that showed that it was twilight. All she had to do now was wait.

Then something in the air changed. The chatter that the main hall had was now at half volume. Coco looked around to see what was swallowing voices. At the entrance stood Princess Celestia, Princess Cadence, Shining Armor, and Her Majesty; or as Coco knows her Her Majesty as Queen Chrysalis.

"Attention all Canterlot Guests!" a pony boomed beside the four ponies who had all eyes glued onto them. "Princess Celestia, the Prince and Princess of the Crystal Empire, AND Princess Celestia's close friend, Her Majesty, have arrived. Please give them your respects." The announcer bowed his head and gestered his hoof to those who deserved attention.

The fateful event has begun.

The Fateful Event: Snowfall Ash

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Ch. 43

A nice applause came from the castle hall as onlookers noticed the host, along with Cadence and Shining Armor. Some whispered under their breath asking who Your Majesty was but didn’t question it any further. Your Majesty was a friend of Princess Celestia. That means she deserves the same respect.

Coco and Fang stood and clapped along with the other ponies with a smile at the arrival of the four. More specifically, for the changeling under that unicorn mask. Queen Chrysalis smiled and waved as the applause resumed. The changeling leaned over to Princess Cadence, who was now formally dressed, and whispered, “There is a lovely air tonight.”

“It is nice to be important I will admit.” Cadence looked at her husband. “In more ways than one.” The prince heard the compliment and pecked his wife on the cheek.

Looking around through the clapping ponies, Chrysalis was able to spot her other friend and guard. “May I go to my friend princess?” the changeling asked Celestia. “It was fun spending time with you, but I do believe that I must check in for the contest being held tonight.”

“Of course. But before you leave, I must announce something that you might want to hear. Come.” Walking forward, the four went up the staircase up to the center platform before the stairways when their separate ways. Looking to the rest of the guests, Princess Celestia announced, “Welcome everypony to the Grand Galloping Gala!” Another applause ripped through the air. “Tonight is a special night. Not only do we have a fashion contest featuring some of Equestria’s best tailors, tonight also marks the one year anniversary of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor’s marriage. And on top of that, on that same wedding day, with the two of their combined powers, were able to ward off the changeling invasion.”

An even louder cry of cheering echoed in the halls. Coco smiled but felt guilty for doing so in front of Fang. But even he didn’t look bothered by the princess’ statement. Fang just smiled along with everypony else.

“Also!” Princess Celestia spoke boldly, “To make my evening even better, I have made a friend today.” Looking to Chrysalis, the alicorn smiled. “I want you all to become acquainted with Your Majesty. A wonderful mare who is intelligent as well as she is humorous.” As expected, the ponies clapped once more. Not as strong as the first few, but it was good enough for the changeling. She was getting the love she needed.

Coco’ and Chrysalis’ eyes met as they stood in their current position. It was hard to tell from their point of views but the two smiled at each other.

“Again I thank you all for attending this year’s gala,” Celestia said with conclusion in her voice. “Please enjoy yourself. And don’t forget: the fashion show begins at 10pm in the ballroom. It would be nice for you all to attend.”

Trying to find out what time it was, Coco asked the pegasus guard just that. “8pm Miss Pommel,” he answered.

Coco turned to face Fang. “We should go to the check in with Your Majesty for the contest.”

“Indeed,” the changeling nodded.Leaving the guard to his post, Coco Pommel and Inferno Fang made their way for the stairs; and the queen. “Keep up the work,” Fang called back to the pegasus.

Reaching the top of the stairs, Coco was easily recognized. “Ah Coco,” Princess Cadence spoke out of the four of them, “nice to see you again.”

“Hey,” was all Coco could muster up, still nervous to have four rulers before her. But she did feel less guilty about being before Cadence and Shining Armor. Perhaps Chrysalis became close friends with the two princesses and prince and they would not feel threatened once the queen shows her true colors. Hopefully.

“Are you feeling better Coco?” Shining Armor asked taking a step forward to the cream colored mare. Taking her hoof, he kissed it gently. Blush bled onto Coco’s cheeks and only nodded a “yes” to comply to the prince’s question. Fang had to bite his tongue and not show any sign of jealousy. His queen is still very against him with being close to Coco already.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” Shining Armor smiled.

“Oh you,” Cadence giggled, bumping her husband’s torso. “Always flattering the mares.”

“But you are the only one that I do more than just flatter you.”

“Shining!” An even harder jab struck the husband in the ribs. He grunted with pain but didn’t flinch perhaps trying to show that he could take a hit. “You don’t have to tell them that,” the wife hissed with flushed cheeks.

Everypony else laughed at what just happened before them. “Be careful Shining Armor,” Chrysalis spoke low. “A mare may have more power in her punch than you may think.”

“Alright, that is enough,” Celestia interjected, not wanting the stallion to get pestered by the two mares. “I do think you should make your way to the check in,” she spoke to Chrysalis.

“I think that would be the best thing to do.” Looking to Coco and Fang, she gestured her head to the left. That being their que, all three began to leave. “I will see you three sometime later tonight.”

“As will I,” Celestia answered.

“Farewell,” Cadence commented.

“Good luck with your contest,” Shining Armor replied back.

***

“So how did your day go with Princess Celestia?” Coco asked eagerly. “How close of friends did you two become? Any secrets shared? Do you like her now? Are you-”

“Stop with the bantering please,” Chrysalis huffed. “So far, everything is going well. That is all you will get out of me.” The changeling leaned in to Coco’s ear. “We can’t just talk about this so casually. Especially here.”

“I just want to know is all.”

“You will know when it happens. Now stop asking these questions and enjoy the night for now.”

Coco, Chrysalis, and Fang now walked in silence as they made their way to the check-in. But even the silence was bothering the queen and it quickly got the best of her. “But thank you for caring. Your heart is in the right place.”

“And I know you are talking to Princess Celestia because of me. So please, just tell me a summery if that is not too much to ask.”

I am curious as to what happened today as well, Fang thought to himself.

Letting out a defeated sigh, Chrysalis looked down at Coco. “You really know how to convince me to talk. Next time I am even interrogated, make sure you are there and I will easily talk.” The queen cracked a small smile as Coco giggled a bit.

“All I do is just bother you until you crack,” the pony joked.

“Do you want to know how the day with Celestia went or not Miss Questionmare?” Coco scrunched her brows at her pet name, but nodded a yes. Fang smirked at her silly expression.

“It was… very nice,” Chrysalis admitted despite the fact that she didn’t want to. “She, Cadence, and Shining Armor are in my same social class. We are leaders. We relate to many things. Of course I didn’t tell them I was a queen. I mustered up a nonsense story saying I was the boss of a very private clothing company. Regardless of what I ‘do,’ we still dealt with others and telling others what to do and whatnot.” A frown sank Chrysalis’ cheeks. “It still saddens me that I am still far different from them.”

“Now you stop while you are ahead!” Coco quickly intercepted the changeling’s pathway and had her creased brows stabbing Chrysalis’ eyes. “You are closer than you may think. Like I said…” The pony looked around to be sure nopony was around. There was not. “Ponies and changelings work to survive. Yes you do do things differently, but you do it not out of malaise.”

“Correct.”

“Then be among me and the other ponies. Be one of us.” A sinister smile grew on Chrysalis’ face, happy that a pony wants her, no matter how different she was from her friend.

“Fine. I will be what I am not. But I will be among other ponies and loved by them.”

“That’s more like it.” Feeling a friendly embrace on its way, Chrysalis lifted an arm prepared for her friend. Sure enough, Coco moved into the disguised changeling. “I do hope my love can help you tonight.”

“I have gotten a good amount so far this evening so yours is miniscule. However, your support goes beyond what food I have obtained.”

As the Coco and Chrysalis were in a friendly embrace, Fang watched with a joy filled heart. The two mares he cared for looked so happy and that is something he adored. It also relieved Fang to see his queen in a good mood. That means she is less likely to get angry. But knowing her, Queen Chrysalis is known to transform her mood faster than actually shape shifting into some other pony. As for Coco, well, he already knew why she made him happy. Her way with words is something he marveled, even if her questionmare attitude was a little… annoying at times. But everypony and changeling has a flaw.

“You can’t be serious!” A loud voice boomed through the hall. Coco and Chrysalis jolted away from each other, wondering where the sound came from. Fang’s ears twitched and turned to where the exclaimer was.

“Down the hall around the left corner,” Fang spoke low, even though he didn’t need to. “That’s where it came from.” The uproaring pony was not as loud as their shout, but the voice still echoed throughout the halls.

“I do believe the check-in is to the right,” Chrysalis spoke as a matter of factly. “We might as well see who our silence splitter is.” Coco nodded. The three of them walked briskly as if they were running late to the check-in. Perhaps they wanted to know who yelled.

As they rounded the corner, the trio knew exactly who was yelling.

“I… I told you I was sorry…” a gray mare spoke shyly.

“Please, stop bantering my girlfriend,” the brown pony to the pegasus’ side argued.

“Your girlfriend lost her diamond crown!” Suri barked. “That was an essential to the outfit’s theme! The Dairy Queen and her assistant! That is the theme I was going with you two!”

Coco flinched at the sight of her ex-boss’ old mean attitude. It was never a good thing to see and the mare never thought she would see it again. Too bad that reality was not real.

Chrysalis cleared her throat to grab Suri’s attention. “Can’t you see that I am bus-” Suri was about to leer at the ponies who was eavesdropping on her, but her anger quickly evaporated. “C-Coco! Y-Your Majesty!”

“Old habits die hard Suri Polomare?” Chrysalis spoke coldly.

Ashamed of her action, she tried to repent. “Sorry… I was just…” Suri looked at Coco who had a look of the past. Suri remembers that face. A face of fear and disappointment. “...frustrated…”

Coco noticed the gray mare point her ears back in shame when Suri finished her stumbling sentence. Getting a good look at her dress, Coco fully understood the theme. The flank of the dress was a nice goldenrod color with silver circles that looked to be like bubbles. The hem of the dress mimicked soda fizz with a nice creamy color. A cute red bow was knotted at the breast of the pegasus’ dress. On her cranium looked to be a… small white cloud with a red and white striped bendy straw. Overall, it was a cute and cleaver dress. The pegasus’ blonde mane really complimented Suri’s creation.

As for the brown stallion, he had a royal red cape with spotted fur at the hem of it. A red and white shirt covered the front of the pony’s torso and flank. A nice golden crown rested on his head with white pearls at each tip of the headwear, and in hoof, an iron cane.

“Again… I’m sorry…” the gray pegasus spoke softly.

With Chrysalis in her presence, Suri felt slightly intimidated and couldn’t find her angry fire. “It’s fine. I forgive you Derpy.” But the stares from Chrysalis, Fang, and even Derpy’s boyfriend was putting her on edge. “Can we just head over to check-in?”

Everypony silently nodded.

***

“Your dress is very cute,” Coco smiled as she admired Derpy’s dress.

“It is thanks to Suri that I have this,” the pegasus replied. Her one good eye was locked on Coco while the other was attempting to look at Suri, who walked a bit ahead of the group. “Even if she does have a short temper,” Derpy grumbled lowly so her voice does not reach the earth pony.

“I will have to say,” Time Turner, Derpy’s boyfriend, butted in, “it really was nice of her to treat us with a pair of free outfits. Also…” The stallion looked at Coco with curiosity. “...how do you know of Suri?”

“She is an old boss of mine.”

“And who is your current employer?”

Coco gestured to Chrysalis. “She is. Best mare I ever worked with.”

“Then I can assume you left Suri for reasons, yes?” Coco watched Suri from behind. Time Turner’s words stabbed into her and she flinched.

“Suri can be a good mare once you get to know her.” Coco was not sure if what she said was a lie or not. But she did know her old boss was at least trying to change for the better. “After all, she did make you both your outfits for free.” The couple couldn’t argue that train of logic. But that still didn’t make them appreciate her negative attitude.

Smiling, Derpy looked to Chrysalis and Fang trying to lighten the mood. “You two look great by the way. I bet Coco knew exactly what you wanted.”

“Actually,” Coco smirked, “I made about… four other dresses before Your Majesty made up her mind.”

“Four!?” Derpy’s dizzy eyes looked in opposite directions in shock. “Wow, you must have had your work cut out for you.”

“Indeed,” Time Turner nodded. “Must have been stressful.”

All Coco could do was shrug. “But I did it anyways. I have had to do worse.” Coco noticed Suri cock her head slightly, probably listening to the literal back talk behind her. Perhaps Coco needs to not mention her at all. No ill will is held against her, so there is no need for anymore comments.

Chrysalis didn’t appreciate being placed under the horse drawn carriage so quickly as her friend spoke of her. But she was quick to muster up a response. “I’m not the one who got upset when I told you to make another one. Never once did I say your outfits were terrible.”

All Coco could do was roll her eyes. She knew she lost the argument before it even began.

“Coco does make a very good uniform,” Fang added as he looked at what he was wearing. “She is just good at many things overall.”

“Yes,” Chrysalis responded. “Never knew a pony like her.”

You never knew anypony like me until you befriended one, Coco thought with a smile.

After one more turn, the check-in was right ahead. “There it is,” Suri dared to speak. Looking back, the mare saw every eye on her and hated now being the center of attention. “Derpy. Time Turner. Please walk with me please.”

Neither of the two Suri called for wanted to be with her. But she did do them a favor. The least they could do was partake in this contest.

“Well, it was nice talking to you all,” Derpy smiled while managing to keep her eyes straight.

“Likewise. And good luck Coco Pommel.” Time Turner looked to his girlfriend with blush in his cheeks. “Let's make the night our best.”

With a giggle and a chuckle, the two caught up with Suri. At this point Coco, Fang, and Chrysalis stood still as they watched the three head to the check-in.

“You sure are giving her a lot of mercy,” Chrysalis spoke to Coco. The pony knew exactly who she was referring to.

“I’m just… generous with second chances. And You are no exception.” If Chrysalis had any form of a rebuttal, she now lost it. The changeling wondered why she allowed such back talk from a mear pony, but knew that answer already.

“Excuse me you two,” Fang spoke up. “We should sign in now.”

Coco and Chrysalis didn't notice that Suri or the couple leave. Taking no time at all, Coco walked ahead to the check-in with anticipation. This is it Coco. You are about to let the world know of your creations.

As soon as Coco got to the table, the bored mare asked, “Your name?”

“Coco Pommel.” Looking back, she noticed Chrysalis and Fang were right behind her. The pony almost shrieked; they made no noise when they walked. “And- these are the two who are entering the contest with my outfits.”

The light-violet mare looked at her clipboard and back at Coco. “And what will you be calling your lineup?”

“Oh… umm…” Looking back at Chrysalis and Fang, the mare looked up and down at their outfits. Chrysalis’ dress had a blue and white color scheme while Fang’s was red and black. But what to call the lineup? That was the big question.

I got it. “Snowfall Ash.”

The check-in mare scribbled something on her clipboard. “Thank you.” Her slow eyes looked at the three ponies before her. “Be sure to be behind the stage fifteen minutes prior. Good luck.” If her expression was anymore slate faced, an actual slate would have more attitude on it.

“Thank you,” Coco spoke with a smile, trying to keep her enthusiasm higher than the bored pony.

“Let’s go Coco.” The earth pony noticed Chrysalis was looking more irritated than bored. Perhaps because of the check-in mare’s half-hearted attitude.

At once, the trio left the check-in without another word.

“Quite the charmer,” Fang spoke with a roll of his eyes.

“Indeed…” Chrysalis agreed.

Fang turned his attention to Coco with a grin. “I love your name for our outfits. “Snowfall Ash. Powerful I have to say.”

Coco simply shrugged, “It's just an artist title.”

“I agree with Fang.” Chrysalis seemed to disagree with Coco’s statement. “It is powerful. And I like power.”

“I bet you do,” Coco spoke low to herself.

The Fateful Event: The Creature

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Ch. 45

The walk to the ballroom was a silent trip aside from Chrysalis asking Coco if she had any questionmare questions. Coco only sarcastically laughed and responded a grumbling “no” to follow. The pony did have some questions in mind, such as what Chrysalis plans to do to obtain love aside from Princess Celestia being a source. But that talk aloud was not meant for public ears.

Once the three arrived, Coco couldn't keep her bubbly emotions hidden, along with a wide grin. The room was bustling about with ponies dressed in fancy attire. The noise of the ponyfolks was not too loud, however. Probably because of the quartet of musicians performing their mellow music onstage, and the visitors wanted to have a listen.

The stage was to the right of the ballroom entrance, crudely standing out from the rest of the hall with its black paint. But it was decorated with flora and ribbons to make the color of the void a lot less ugly. A long runway jetted out from the center of the stage, and red dividers sat on the ground to keep the future audience a distance from it.

Alongside the walls were tables, covered with an assortment of foods and beverages. It dawned unto Coco that she has not eaten all day and is going to help herself as soon as she can.

“Are you happy to be here?” Chrysalis asked the pony as she, Coco, and Fang unknowingly blockaded the entrance.

“Very much so.” Coco smiled, finally glad that the event she had been working for was now in the present. Despite her happiness and excitement, the horderves were calling out to the cream-colored mare. “But I need to get something to eat. I'll be eating some food.”

“Shall I accompany you?” Fang asked Coco. He glanced up to his queen to see if she had any rebuttals, but didn't seem to mind.

“Of course. What about you, Your Majesty?”

Chrysalis realized she was going to be on her own again and felt that it was not fair that Coco hadn't spent more time with her. “So long as you and I have our time together later on. It wouldn't be a wonderful night without my friend.”

A look of guilt fell on Coco’s face. “If you’d like, you can join us both. I don't want you to feel left out.”

But Chrysalis only laughed. “Don't feel any shame, Coco. I was the one who trotted off with the princess for the whole day. I should be the one apologizing.”

“You should,” Coco replied back with a snide grin. Looking to Fang, the mare held out her hoof to him with a small tint of blush in her cheeks. “Shall we?”

“Of course you would as me in the form of a question.” Fang and Chrysalis laughed aloud as Coco’s ears pointed back in embarrassment and irritation. But Coco got her revenge by roughly yanking on Fang’s arm and almost made him stumble over.

She pulled him over to the nearest table as Fang stumbled over his hooves, but managed to keep his footing. “Still can't take a joke,” Fang smiled mischievously.

“You and the others keep running it into the ground,” Coco grumbled as she reached for a small plate. The horderves were arranged in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, , cheese cubes, and small sandwiches. With her hunger greater than she thought, Coco grabbed a few sandwiches, some cheese, and a good amount of vegetables; the fruits she left alone.

No longer tormenting the poor mare, Fang looked at Coco with a smile, “It's quite amazing isn't it?”

Coco was still bothered by him and mumbled as she crammed a tiny hay sandwich into her mouth. “I thought I ask the questions…”

“I mean about being here.” Fang gestured behind him to the glory that is the Canterlot Ballroom.

The pony had to swallow before answering. “It is wonderful. And I am thankful for you. Thankful that you found me.” Coco winked at Fang, causing the changeling to look away nervously.

“Thanks.”

Thinking about what she said, the mare was curious about Fang. “So why do you enjoy being around me?”

A hard question to answer. Not that it was, but Fang didn't want to say the one wrong thing: because he loves her. “Well for one you do have a way with words.”

“As in…?” Another sandwich was now being consumed by the pony.

“You know how to convince Your Majesty. Somehow your words speak to her.”

A brow raised on Coco’s forehead. “But how does that make you enjoy being around me. I didn't ask what you like about me.”

Blush bled across Fang’s face as he said the wrong thing; least it wasn't him confessing his love. “Sorry. I-it's because you are nice and accepting to me and the others. You also always have something to talk about, even if you mostly ask questions.”

“Hehe, that’s better.” Fang noticed Coco’s flushed cheeks, flaring from his compliment.

“What about me?” Fang asked.

“I like being around you because you are willing to help me when I am down. You’ve never done any harm to me.” Coco paused for a moment to think, as if to take back what she said. “Except for all the teasing.”

All Fang could do was shrug with a grin. “Somepony has to do it.”

After rolling her eyes in her head, Coco found herself looking at a goldenrod mare with long, curly, rose-red hair. It was Stitch Snitch. Her blue dress stood out quite well from the crowd of equines. She walked about with a shy posture, as if she was lost. Coco nudged Fang’s side and gestured to her. “It's Stitch,” Fang commented casually.

The amount of enthusiasm from the changeling seemed a bit disheartening. “Let's go say hi to her,” Coco ordered. After discarding her glass plate in the dirty dishes basket, Coco quickly made her way over to Stitch. “Hello Stitch.”

“Oh, hello Coco.” Stitch beamed at the sight of the cream-colored mare. “How has your day been?”

“Very well.” From Stitch Snitch’s perspective, she saw Fang approach from behind Coco.

“Have you seen any others?” Fang asked curiously to Stitch.

“Only you.” The stallion lifted his head to see if other changelings were among the group of ponies, but couldn't see any familiar disguises. Not even his brother was in sight and that was something unusual for the hungry sibling.

“What have you obtained?” Fang spoke low, wondering about Stitch’s progress on gathering love.

“Very little.” Stitch held her head low as she was yielding very little. “I know I can gather a lot by blending in. But I am very shy when it … I don't know how to introduce myself to others, be it any race.”

Peering around the ballroom, Coco noticed more bodies were now present with their elegant outfits and dresses. Among them were some handsome stallions in fine attire, speaking boldly and proud. Maybe Coco should introduce her friend to one. Stitch needs somepony to accompany her tonight if she is to obtain any amount of love.

Taking Stitch’s hoof, the pony smiled at her friend. “Come on, let's go mingle.”

“N-no!” Not knowing her own strength, Coco began to pull the flustered changeling along. Stitch did everything in her power to halt the earth pony. But her hooves screeched on the slippery tile, unable to get good footing again. “No no no no no no no no.”

Fang followed from behind Coco and Stitch, his ears jetted back. “If you force somepony into doing something against their will, they may have a less chance of doing what stresses them even more.” Even though his feeling for Coco were much stronger, he still cared for his sister changeling. The last thing he needed was to have her facade shatter and expose herself.

“I just want to prove to Stitch that she can talk to others,” Coco called back. In front of her, the pony approached a light-blue pegasus dressed in a black suit. His mane was short and spiked in a wild arrangement. He held a champagne glass in his hoof, taking sips of the bubbly liquid in his fragile cup. He stood alone by a table with several wine bottles jetting out of a large wide bucket filled with ice. His eyes looked among the ponies, observing them with sharp eyes. Once Coco and her frightened friend were close enough, the looked to the mares. Fang stopped a few feet away from his friends only to keep an eye on Coco.

Letting go of the changeling’s hoof, Coco gestured to the nicely dressed pony. “Go on! Talk to him!”

But that only made Stitch want to flee from his presence. Her face flushed and her eyes widened, trying to give into Coco’s demand, but froze, shivering with fear.

“Why are you doing this to her?” the pegasus asked Coco with a raise of his brow. He gave Stitch a once over with his sharp eyes and frowned at the pretty mare. “She looks downright mortified!”

“I just want her to talk to somepony,” Coco replied. “Just trying to get her out of her shell.” Despite seeing her friend’s shivering exterior, she was determined to get a word out of Stitch.

But the stallion shook his head with Coco’s tactic. “Never force anything onto a pony. They can grow to hate what you are trying to get them to do. Or worse: hate you for your actions.” In her peripheral, Coco saw Fang and Stitch nod with approval of the wise words.

“I almost said the same thing to her,” Fang commented with a sigh. “And she didn't listen.”

“Miss.” Coco’s eyes met the sharp stare of the pegasus. She could tell he was more than a wine-sipping stallion, and his words were further proving that. “Sometimes it is best to let others fly when they want to. Leave your friend be and let her mingle as she pleases.”

Realizing her wrongdoing, Coco nodded at the wise pegasus before looking back to Stitch. “Sorry…” Her ears retreated with regret. “I just want you to get comfortable.”

“It's okay,” the changeling nodded with a smile. “You only wanted to help.” Not feeling as nervous, Stitch looked to the light-blue pony and gave him a small grin. “You really have a way with words.”

“Anytime,” he winked before taking a sip of his drink.

Curious about the pegasus, Fang asked him, “With such wisdom that you have, what is it that you do?”

“I am a business analyst. It's an interesting job, but I what my describes: analyze businesses.”

“Fascinating,” was all Fang could muster up. Never in his life did he know of such a career choice. Then again, he is apart of the changeling swarm. So learning about pony customs were still an alien concept to him. “May I ask your name?”

“Hawk Eye.” The pegasus nodded his head to substitute for a bow, then taking another sip of wine. “And yourself.”

“Inferno Fang.” Looking to Coco, he smiled at her. “Why don't you and Stitch go on and socialize with each other. I'm sure she is willing to talk with you.”

“And what about yourself? Trying to get rid of us?” The pony raised a brow, but knew what Fang was implying.

“I just want to talk with Hawk Eye here.” The changeling turned his attention to the champagne-sipping pony. “If that is alright with you.”

“Just don't forget about your friend,” Hawk Eye nodded looking to the mares. His sharp eyes scanned over Fang and made the pony grin. Speaking low in Fang’s ear, he spoke, “After all, I can tell you care a lot about her.”

Trying his best not to blush, Fang took a deep breath before looking to Coco. “So are you two going to fine on your own?”

Stitch nodded, glad she doesn't have to be around Hawk Eye anymore; or be forced to talk to ponies she is unfamiliar with. “Let's go.”

Before walking away from Fang, Coco said to him, “Just don't forget about the contest.” And with that, the two mares were on their way.

Taking the lead, Stitch made her way to a door that was wide open, leading outside. Almost eager to get a literal breath of fresh air, she quickened her pace and Coco had to adapt.

Finally with no roof over her head, Stitch took a deep breath and sighed in relief. Coco stood behind her under a small cedar tree, safe from the moonlight. Looking to and fro, Stitch saw no pony outside; at least not that she could see anyways. Now furious, the changeling’s pointed dangerously back and her eyes stabbed at Coco. “Don't you ever do that again!” Beads of tears formed at the corners of Stitch’s eyes.

Frozen with guilt, Coco shook her head meaning no harm. “I just wanted to help you get what you need.” Even her ears retreated, but more because she was ashamed of her act.

“I don't need you to tell me how to be…” Leaning close to the pony, Stitch hissed lowly, “...a changeling!” She then began to speak normally. “I can handle myself on my own and blend in. That's what I am good at.”

“I'm sorry…” was all Coco could say, now that she witnessed her friend’s rolling tears. Thankfully for herself and the changeling, Stitch was quick to change her attitude and was no longer frustrated with Coco.

“It’s okay now. I just want you to remember I am much more sensitive with things I am uncomfortable with.” Stitch wiped her tears from her eyes and gave a light smile to her friend. “I am glad you feel sorry and that means a lot.” Sighing with relief, Coco was glad to hear her friend was no longer angry with her. It surprised Coco as to how much flare the changeling had, even if she was timid. The pony moved toward her friend and gave Stitch a quick embrace to further solidify her apology.

With the noise of sound scarce from where the two mares were, they suddenly heard hooves touching hard on the grass. The thump came from behind the tree, keeping whoever landed, hidden from their eyes.

“Sister, why must I be here?” A stallion’s voice grumbled with distaste and Coco could hear it in his voice.

“Because Princess Luna requests that you give yourself a break,” replied a more feminine voice, trying to convince her brother to remain with her. Both Stitch and Coco looked at each other, with ears twitching. Listening.

“You know I don’t do well with groups of ponies. Besides, who would want to see us? We are freaks to others.”

“Who cares what others think bitterly of us. I know there will be somepony who will see no harm in us. Besides, you might meet a beautiful mare.

“And that is another reason why I wish to not be here! Why must you insist on trying to get me with some other pony? Like I said, who would like us, especially me?”

What does he mean by 'we are freaks to others,’ Coco pondered as she listened to the siblings talk among themselves. It interested her to see what they did look like. Coco does know what a changeling looks like and is not at all intimidated by their appearance one bit. Yes it did take a bit of getting used to, but not too long. Seeing her friend, Coco saw Stitch standing absolutely still, wondering if she was breathing for how still she was being. With curiosity poisoning Coco’s mind, she took a step to see who was around the cedar tree. But in the first attempt of movement, she stepped on a twig. The sound exploded like a firecracker as it ripped at the quiet air, even though the noise was small.

“Who’s there?!” the stallion behind the tree ordered. Stitch gave Coco an unsure look, not knowing what to do with the situation at hoof.

“It was probably a squirrel,” his sister responded. “Relax.”

But instead of a reply, Coco heard quick hoofsteps and saw a figure round the trunk. And to her surprise, she was not expecting a creature. Or at least, half of one?

The Fateful Event: In Pursuit

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Ch. 46

The creature had an interesting look to him, specifically his eyes; they had black slits for pupils, like a serpent. His ears was more pointed and had a bit of fur at the tip. However, those were two features that made this “pony” differ from others. The other feature he had was his wings; they were like bat wings. Perhaps they were. The wings were pointed sharp as they rested at the stallion’s hip, even though there was nothing being worn on them. Speaking of sharp, two small fangs bared out of his mouth, giving the creature an even more intimidating look. Aside from those interesting visuals, he seemed quite normal. His fur was gray, but his mane had a nice silver shine, almost close to that of a crystal pony. A messy silver tail sagged behind him as he stared at the mares.

“Hello,” Coco spoke with a smile. She didn’t know how to observe to the pony… bat… thing, but did her best not to stare at his everything and be rude. Sadly, Coco’s eyes betrayed her as they looked with curiosity.

The stallion’s mouth parted a bit before closing it again, making the air very awkward. Both Coco and Stitch looked at each other, not sure what to make of the situation at hand; Stitch even more unsure. Finally, he spoke, “Do I not frighten you?” In a quick motion, he fanned out his leathery wings, causing a light gust of wind to hit the two mares. But even with his sudden act, neither pony nor changeling flinched, but only looked with even more awkward stares.

“Platinum,” a mare spoke, coming from behind the cedar tree. Her amber eyes looked hot at her brother as she rounded the trunk. The mare was just like her brother: pointed ears with some fur at the tip, and batwings at her sides. Her fur, however, was more of a darker shade of gray, and her mane and tail was a light-purple color. The mane was done in a lovely ponytail with a cute pink bow to hold the bundle of hair at the end of her hairdo. “What are you doing? Trying to scare them?” No words came from Platinum as he folded his wings back to his side. Looking back to Coco and Stitch, she apologized, “I am sorry for my brother. He can be quite the annoying fruit bat.” Her sibling blushed and looked away as he Platinum heard the quip from his sister.

“It is quite alright,” Coco finally spoke, no longer held down by the awkward air. “Sorry we were listening in on your conversation.” Stitch nodded slightly, not wanting to speak a word or bring attention to herself.

The batmare stood still, looking between Coco and Stitch, pondering about something; Coco could feel awkward gravity weigh down the air again. “My name is Violet Sky,” she finally spoke, relieving Coco that Violet is willing to break the ice.

“I am Coco Pommel.” The ponies shook hooves before Coco gestured to her friend. “And this is Stitch Snitch.” Only a nod came from the changeling; however, she didn’t feel shy at all. But that still didn’t make her want to talk to the two strangers before her. “So Platinum,” Coco asked, “what were you trying to do by showing us your wings?”

“I wanted to scare you away,” he grumbled, but with a frown at his lips.

“Why?” Stitch suddenly spoke. “You didn’t look frightening at all.” Platinum’s brows raised with sudden shock and he looked to his sister. As for Violet, she looked at her brother with a smug grin. It dawned unto Coco that she would have normally be scared of a pony who looked like a vampony. But given what she has gone through in the last two weeks, changelings have lost their fear factor. So seeing Platinum and Violet, despite never seeing any of their kin, was no shock to Coco. The two did look interesting to say the least. As for Stitch, she knows how frightening the queen can be, so it is no surprise she said what she said.

“I told you somepony would not find us all- ‘spoooooky’ as you said,” Violet mocked her brother with a playful shove.

“Could you not embarrass me in front of others Vi!” Platinum scowled, his slit pupils thinning with anger and ears pointing back with aggression.

“Please don’t,” Stitch spoke, looking at Violet with an innocent stare. Platinum’s ears perked up at the words of Stitch. “You don’t want your brother to end up hating you later on.” A hot snort came from Platinum as he smirked at his sister, glad the pony before him was standing up for him. Coco slightly felt guilty, as she did the same thing to Stitch several minutes ago. But the changeling was right afterall.

“You are no fun,” Violet sighed. But she still wanted to have the last laugh. “Just know that I am only being nice because a pretty mare is standing up for you.” Stitch’s cheeks flared with red when the batmare complimented her. Coco stood beside her friend with a smile, agreeing with Violet.

Angered with his sister flustering the earth pony, Platinum apologize, “I am really sorry- Stitch, right?” The changeling nodded slowly, still taken aback by the statement. “My freak-bat of a sister doesn’t know how to keep her fangs in her mouth.”

“What?” Violet didn’t know what she did wrong as she looked between her brother and Stitch. “I was being truthful. She really does look lovely in that dress.” But to her horror, Violet watched Stitch’s expression writhe as the pony began to sob. “Oh no! I- I am so sorry!”

Before Platinum was going to give his sister an earful, Coco interjected, “It’s fine. She is very sensitive when it comes to being overjoyed.” Or any emotion for that matter. Stitch wiped her tears before nodding a “yes.”

“Thank you for finding me pretty,” Stitch choked over her sentence. “You look very cute too.”

“Oh stop,” Velvet waved a hoof playfully at Stitch. “I’m not the one in a dress.” That was one thing that was a matter of fact: neither Platinum nor Velvet were not in outfits. Which was interesting to Coco, considering that the Grand Galloping Gala was an event where ponies come to gather in fancy attire.

“Anyways…” Platinum seemed like he wanted to get away from Coco and Stitch and began to walk away from them and his sister. “...I want to walk around and try to mingle like you want Vi. You can stay here and talk to them if you like, but I wish to be alone.” Just before the stallion went on his way, his eyes couldn’t leave Stitch. Something was trying to get him to stay, but Platinum refused to listen to it. “I like your dress.”

“And I like your teeth,” Stitch spat out, the instant she heard his compliment. In a quick motion, Platinum turned around and walked over to the ballroom door, pulling it open. A couple was standing at the entrance as the stallion went inside; they quickly fled his presence by briskly moving away.

As for Stitch, the mare stared at Platinum’s backside as he watched the ponies flee. A frown was able to be seen on his face as they left him. When he reached to close the door, the stallion noticed Stitch was staring at her. But the gaze was broken when the slits in his eyes fell upon her, and Stitch looked away, somewhere unknown. No longer wanted to be seen by them, Platinum closed the large door with a loud “kathunk.”

Now alone with Coco and Velvet, Stitch no longer wanted to be with them; she wanted to be with him. Platinum. Never in her life did she want to pursue a stallion for any reason. But she was curious with his attitude and wanted to learn about him. With a flushed face, and surprisingly having no tears in her face, Stitch said, “I wish to be alone as well.” A sudden rush of energy overtook the changeling and she made for the door, then entering the ballroom in pursuit of Platinum.

Coco and Velvet looked at each other and asked the same question in unison, “What just happened?”

The Fateful Event: One Hour, Twenty-five Minutes

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Ch. 47

It's okay, Stitch Snitch. Just take deep breaths, stay calm, and not take too many deep breaths; you don't want to faint, cause a scene, and disappoint Queen Chrysalis…

When Stitch would be on her own, even in the hive, the changeling preferred to stay hidden. A strong reason why she wanted to become a tailor, was to give all the attention to her queen and not herself. Of course she loved the attention from Queen Chrysalis and Knight Cap, but not too much.

However, there is one thing Stitch does love to do: giving attention to others who make her happy; another strong reason she became a tailor for her queen. Chrysalis makes her and the other changeling's feel wanted, despite how the rest of Equestria thinks of them. That inspired the sensitive mare when she was a filly to become what she is today. And when Coco entered the picture, Stitch made sure she told anychangeling she could about the pony’s generosity.

There was something Stitch has never done, however: giving her attention to another stallion, and want his back. Most of the male changelings preferred a mate with a strong attitude, like their queen. Sadly, Stitch was not one to be known to have any amount of toughness. She was known to cry. And it wasn't her fault she was so sensitive. Stitch didn't know how to keep her emotions in check. The only one who was able to help her was Knight Cap, her closest friend. Knight always knows what is on her mind for obvious reasons, and always made an attempt to assist Stitch.

But Knight Cap was not with tonight, and Coco wasn’t going to force Stitch into another conversation. She might as well try to mingle with Platinum on her own accord. First, she needs to find him.

Walking through the ballroom, Stitch noticed the numbers of ponies have grown. She cursed at herself for not following the bat pony the moment Platinum left the garden.

After about ten minutes, the changeling could not seem to find him. It was strange to her, considering how much different Platinum looked, yet he was nowhere to be found. Maybe he found a chandelier to hang from with his tail, being somewhat of a bat. Stitch only laughed to herself at the thought.

Fifteen minutes go by and still no sign of fluffy ears. Stitch did see Coco speaking to Velvet, both speaking with smiles and laughs. It was nice to see Coco enjoying her night with somepony else. While Stitch moved about the ballroom, she stood by others, listening to conversations from a distance and absorbing love. She didn't want to keep herself from being useful by trying to seek a single stallion out.

An hour slowly crawled past Stitch. Sadly, no sign of him. The only thing she managed to do was obtain a good amount of love within that time. The biggest source of love she obtained was from some stallion, pridefully expressing his love for his stock investments. It was a shock to Stitch, finding a pony who was in love with money. Profit gaining was something alien to the changeling and she never understood why bits had value. They were pieces of metal. That's all she knew.

Still, Stitch was still doing the task of trying to find Platinum. And failing in the process. She was able to find several changelings in disguise while Stitch made her way around the ballroom. But again, no bat pony.

Her heart sank, finally giving up on the pursuit. Perhaps it was for the better anyways and not run the risk of getting close to Platinum. After all, Stitch was an imposter; a changeling.

Parched, Stitch slowly walked over to the table covered with beverages. They arraigned from cider, to various punches. However, it was water that she needed; changeling's cannot consume anything other than water or love. Consumption of anything else, especially solid foods, will cause nasty discomfort.

Taking a ladle and scooping some water, Stitch poured the liquid into a plastic cup and sipped at it. A sad reflection rested on the surface of the water, and the changeling felt bad for her. Why was that mare so upset? Because that mare tried to find a stallion that stood out even in the night sky, and failed.

“Excuse me,” a stallion spoke from behind. Stitch subconsciously moved for the pony, still unable to get Platinum out of her head.

“Umm… excuse me…” The voice was louder than before with a bit of nervousness in their tone. But the changeling didn’t even notice and just stepped even further away, not looking to the speaker. She thought about how she complimented Platinum; how she likes his teeth. In the pony world, looks meant a lot. It was also the same when it came to changelings. But instead of a beautiful or handsome face, sharp fangs were extremely appealing. And most mare changelings wanted an intimidating stallion, to show off their bark and bite when needed.

“S-Stitch was it?” Now that the one behind Stitch mentioned her name, she looked to see who was behind her. The instant her eyes were met with Platinum, the changeling’s face flushed. Funny how she was looking for him for over an hour, and the bat pony was able to seek her out in an instant.

To comply, Stitch slowly nodded to Platinum’s statement. To her surprise, the changeling noticed Platinum was looking nervous himself as he stared at the flustered mare. “I’ve… noticed you have been wondering about.”

“I was looking for you,” Stitch admitted, her hooves shaking as she held the cup of water close to her breast.

“O-oh…” Platinum’s cheeks flushed, creating a strange mix of pink and gray on his face. “How come?”

As the two stood awkwardly in front of the drinks, a mare approached the table and asked, “Excuse me, I wish to have some cider.” At once, both Stitch and Platinum looked to the pegasus, and stepped aside. But the mare’s eyes were locked on the bat pony with a look of dread. “Uh- never mind!” With quickness in her hooves, the pony briskly walked away. Sadness weighed down on Platinums lips and he frowned, sagging his head as well.

“What’s wrong?” Stitch asked, taking a slow step forward toward him. But her action repelled his slit pupils away from her and looked elsewhere.

“Why did you seek me?” Platinum said in a low voice, almost unheard because of the noise from the chattering ponyfolk.

“Because you are interesting to me. You are different from the others. A-and I want to learn more about you.” When the words left her mouth, Stitch was afraid that her blush was now becoming a permanent part of her disguise.

“But why? I am a freak… Yes I am different, but that is what makes me not liked by others.” He looked to where the pony left him and Stitch, but couldn’t see her. “You saw what happened just now. That pegasus saw me and quickly left. All I do is frighten others.”

“And yet I don’t see anything scary about you.” Stitch furrowed her brow, no longer stunned by his presence and more irritated with his stubborn attitude. “Besides, you are the one who approached me just now. So why are you the one coming to me just to insult yourself, when I clearly see nothing wrong with your appearance?”

“Because... I wanted to ask you why I don’t scare you.”

“You don’t scare me because I do not judge appearances.” Stitch looked to the growing crowd of bodies, seeing a mix of earth ponies, pegusi, and unicorns. “Some of us may have an exterior that shows an intimidating posture, but you never know what is going on inside that pony’s heart.” She turned back to Platinum with a soft smile. “You do have a strong and frightening appearance, but there is nothing wrong with that. It shows strength, might, experience. Be prideful of what you are, even if nopony is willing to see your heart.”

The mare had to think after she finished her thoughts toward Platinum. It was only recently that Stitch no longer looked to judge appearances since Coco came along, so she felt that she was not lying to him. As for being prideful for oneself, that she was true to. She may be a changeling, but Stitch is proud to be one, despite the world’s hatred against them.

Platinum had to shut his gaping mouth closed after hearing the wize words of Stitch Snitch. A chuckle escaped the stallion and a small grin grew on his lips. “It’s funny how Princess Luna tells me to be prideful for what I am, and yet I never took her advice. Now here I am, being lectured the same thing by you.” Platinum sighed in defeat, but his smile grew on his face as he looked at Stitch, dressed like a Hearth's Warming Eve present. “Do you want to be around me even if others are scared of me?”

“Of course,” Stitch nodded. “Besides, with you around and your ability to scare ponies away, I won’t have to worry about having to talk with anypony else.”

She smirked at her own joke while Platinum wore an irritated frown. “Funny how I wish none would flee from me, and yet you wish ponies would stay far away from yourself.” Platinum’s face then flushed, trying to not look Stitch in the eyes. However, her gaze seemed to force him to stare into the two light-violet spheres held in the mare’s head. “But thank you for wanting to accompany me. It’s not every day I get to be with a lovely mare.”

The complement stole the changeling’s breath, causing her throat to start hurting and eyes to gloss. Stitch could tell Platinum was regretting what he had just said, but held up a hoof. “I-it’s fine,” she stuttered. “You are going to have to get used to my lame sobbing if you plan to be with this pretty pony.” Before the tears started to roll down her face, Stitch wiped the water from her eyes and took a big sniff.

“Then I will be sure not to compliment you,” Platinum joked. “Then again, with my freakish exterior, I will keep others away from you. And you and I will have all the time in the world together.”

Stitch’s ears fell back, giggling with joy, and glad she was able to find somepony to give her the love she needed. “And I get to admire you and your sharp teeth.”

The Fateful Event: Down the Runway

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Ch. 48

“Hehe, and that’s why we call Platinum ‘Fruit Bat’ in my family!” Velvet let out another laugh before sipping at her sparkling cider.

“That is too funny,” Coco Pommel agreed with a nod. The two mares stood by the beverage table, filled with happiness and giggles. Since Stitch Snitch and Platinum left them, the mares did nothing but tell stories to each other in the meanwhile. The only things Coco did not speak of was how Her Majesty was actually a changeling, and that she is helping the queen’s hive. It still did not make the earth pony feel good about lying to her new friend, but it was necessary to protect Chrysalis and the others.

“It is really amazing that you make dresses,” Velvet smiled and then frowned, upset her drink was now finished. “Maybe you should make me one for me sometime. And before you ask, of course I will pay,” she winked.

“Oh no, it is fine. If you consider me as a friend, I wouldn’t mind doing a favor for free.” Without warning, the batpony let out a cheerful ‘eeeee!’ Her glass she was holding shattered, unable to contain her loud voice. As for Coco and others around Velvet, they looked at her with discomfort and irritation.

“Sorry…” Velvet giggled, her ears folding back with embarrassment. “I just tend to get loud when I am excited.”

“So I noticed,” Coco replied, her ears still ringing. But the earth pony didn’t hold her upset look for too long, and smiled shortly after. Wondering what time it is, Coco noticed a stallion unicorn filling a glass with cider. “Excuse me, do you know the time?”

Without looking at her, he pulled out a pocket watch and the lid flicked open. “It is 9:42.”

“Thank you.” But with no other words left to say, the unicorn walked away with his beverage. Coco grunted at the slightly rude stallion. She was noticing the slightly snooty attitude some of the ponies had at the gala, and it was getting to her and Velvet. At least they had each other for the moment.

“What time do you are you going to get prepared for the contest again?” Velvet asked, knowing why Coco asked for the time.

“Actually, now.” Coco frowned, knowing she would have to leave her new friend. The batpony reached out a hoof and smiled, slightly baring her tiny fangs.

“Don’t think of you going off to do you own thing as a goodbye. Besides, I will be fine on my own.” Velvet sipped her bubbly drink, licking her lips to get any excess liquid off of them. “I will be right here, waiting for you to get back.”

“Okay.” Both mares hugged before Coco left her friend. The mare walked toward the black stage, only to be meet up with Chrysalis. “Have you been enjoying yourself?” she asked smiling.

Looking back to the ponies in the ballroom, she spoke low, “Yes. And so have the others.” Turning back to her friend, she too smiled. “I have a good feeling about tonight.”

Letting out a giggle, Coco said, “I do too. Perhaps a lot of good things will happen.”

I do hope so my friend… Chrysalis doesn’t know how Celestia will take the fact that her new friend is a changeling. Taking the small steps onto the stage, the two made their way backstage. A good amount of ponies flooded the small space that was given to them as they surrounded a poor mare, trying to keep everything organized.

“Everypony please!” the organizer begged out loud. “Once you sign in, please stand aside!” Knowing she was the one with the clipboard, Coco made her way through the body of ponies to her.

“I am here to sign in!” she told the organizer.

Practically throwing the board at Coco, the frantic unicorn said, “Write down the names in their proper boxes.” Looking at the paper she needed to tend to, Coco saw at the top of the list specific titles in their own respecive rectangles. From left to right, the boxes contained these phrases: Designer Name, Model Names, and Outfit Title. To the left side of the sheet were numbers. From 1 to 12, words were already claimed from early contestants. Using the 13th row, Coco Pommel wrote down her name, then Fang and Chrysalis’, and finally, Snowfall Ash. After hoofing the clipboard back to the organizer, the earth pony made her way back to the changeling queen.

“We are good to go,” Coco smiled. “Now all we need is Fang.” Looking around the group of ponies, she wondered if he was among them.

“He needs to hurry…” Chrysalis muttered. “Otherwise, I may have to find him myself.” Looking down at her friend, the changeling looked at Coco with a hard stare. “And the last thing you want me to do is find something on my own…”

Letting out a sigh, Coco only rolled her eyes, not intimidated whatsoever. “I know…” Chrysalis looked the other way, bothered that her friend is not as intimidated as she was before. But as she turned another direction, Fang came from behind the curtain. “Hey Fang,” Coco smiled. “Glad to see you here.”

“Forgive me for being late,” he spoke, disregarding the mare’s greeting. “Breaking a conversation with a pony who talks about his mare was quite difficult.”

“At least I didn’t have to seek you out…” Chrysalis looked at him with the same look she gave Coco. And this time, the queen got what she wanted: a loyal subject in fear of her anger.

“Okay everypony!” The organizer snatched everypony’s attention and voice, awaiting for her next words. “I want all tailors to leave the backstage please! The fashion show is about to start, and I would like to have less bodies in the way! Thank you!”

Coco frowned a little, hoping to be able to cheer on Fang and Chrysalis right before they went down the runway. But she had to heed the organizer’s request. “I guess I will see you both later… again.”

“Worry not, my friend.” Chrysalis gave a soft smile to the earth pony. “We will be fine, will we not Fang?”

“Of course Your Majesty,” he nodded. Fang too smiled at Coco and took a few steps toward her, touching her shoulder. “Now the world will get to see your hard work.” The pony’s cheeks flushed and her body shivered a bit, believing his words, but also afraid not everypony will like her creations.

“Thanks Fang,” Coco spoke low, her gaze shying away elsewhere. “A-anyways, good luck.” Without saying any more words, Coco got off stage and made her way back to the beverage station. As she walked, the mare wondered where Suri was, or even Time Turner or Derpy Hooves. Perhaps they were running a little late. Coco hoped that was not the case.

When Coco came into view of the punches and ciders, she noticed Velvet was occupied by two other bodies. Sitch was giggling a bit as she stood beside Platinum, talking to the two batponies. Now in earshot, Coco Pommel interjected into the conversation, “Well, glad to see you found somepony to talk to Stitch.” A wide smile grew on the pony’s face as Velvet, Platinum, and Stitch looked at her.

“That was sure fast.” Velvet was the first to speak. “What happened back there? I saw you walk in and out in a matter of minutes.”

Still clinging onto Coco’s words, Stitch’s ears fell back a bit, looking down at Platinum’s legs with a nervous grin. “Well, he is an interesting one.” Looking back at the earth pony, Stitch asked, “Did you know Platinum and Velvet live on the moon?”

Coco didn’t know who to answer first. Deciding with Velvet’s, she looked to her and said, “To answer your question, they don’t want fashion designers getting in the way. There were too many bodies back there anyways.” Now facing Stitch, Coco replied, “As for your question, no, I did not know that.” Glancing at Platinum, she now asked her question. “What is it like to live on the moon?”

“You get a magnificent view of the world we live on,” he smiled. Looking to Stitch, Platinum’s eyes shined a bit. “If you had wings, I would show you right now.”

“It would be nice if you could do that, but I am fine with being a part of Equestria, not away from it.” The moon shined through the window, full and bright. Stitch looked at it, wondering what it was like just to stand on the surface of the large rock. “It sure is lovely.”

Not realizing he was staring at Stitch, Platinum said, “She is.” In her peripheral, Stitch caught his gaze as he stared at her. In an instant, he snapped his neck toward the large white sphere in the sky. “A-as in the moon.” But the changeling knew what he was implying, and her throat felt slightly hurt. Before she knew it, a few tears rolled down her cheeks. Platinum reached a hoof at her, trying to apologize, but she shook her head. He was still adapting to Stitch’s strange attitude, forgetting that the mare was a bit more sensitive than others.

Coco and Velvet looked at each other, winking in unison. They took enjoyment out of watching Stitch and Platinum take a liking into each other. Coco will be happy to return to the hive, and tell Knight Cap her friend found a stallion she enjoys being with.

“Attention everypony!” A voice boomed throughout the ballroom. A bright spotlight shined down on the stage with a unicorn smiling into the crowd of ponies. With all attention onto her, the pony’s voice rung out once more. “I want to thank you all for attending this wonderful event.” Walking over toward the stage along with the others, Coco looked up at the lovely dressed mare. “Today marks a very special day. As you may know, Princess Cadence and Shining Armor’s anniversary is today.” A round of applause rose in the crowd. Coco smiled at the couple’s celebration, as did Stitch. “And today, also marks the day that the two used their love to ward off the changeling attack.” An even louder cheer grew in the cluster of ponies. Even Platinum and Velvet showed their enthusiasm their support by applauding loudly. Velvet let out a loud “eeeeee!” and made Coco squint, hoping her eardrums do not shatter.

“Because of their amazing triumph exactly one year ago, the two of them are going to be the judges for tonight’s fashion show.” The light left the mare on stage and now shined onto the prince and princess who sat at a table beside the stage. They waved at the crowd as ponies continued their joyful cheer. As Coco looked at them, Cadence caught her eye and gestured her husband to wave to her. Several eyes looked to the mare, tracking the leaders’ gaze. Coco had to look away to get the attention off of herself.

“So without further ado,” the stage pony announced, “let’s begin the fashion show!”

***

“Up next, we have Cotton Ball’s design named, ‘Ace and Spades.’ His models, Swift Light and Lily Bud.” Two ponies came from behind the stage curtain, and then walked down the runway. The stallion, Swift, wore a black and white outfit. At the breast of his shirt, a spade symbol almost stood off of his clothing. A twist of black stretched all about his white shirt, resembling thick vines. His red fur and orange-yellow mane made the uniform stand out, creating a nice compliment.

The stallion’s partner, Lily Bud drudged next to him wearing a red and cream-white dress. Small red hearts spotted all over the flank, the skirt resembling a lovely wedding cake. Like the stallion, she too had an emblem on her breast as well, but it was a heart. The unicorn’s white body respected well with her cute dress, and the mane was also similar to Stitch Snitch’s wavy red mane.

The crowd cheered in respect as the two made their way down the runway. Several ponies clicked their cameras, taking pictures of the models. Coco looked up to the pair, judging with her own eyes in the most respectful way she could, as she did for the rest of the contestants. The naming of the line was slightly interesting, as she knew what Cotton Ball was aiming for; the black and red colors of playing cards. However, if the name was called “Ace of Hearts,” it would have popped out to the mare much more.

A hoof nudged her side, causing the mare to flinch, her concentration broken. “Don’t be so nervous,” Velvet spoke, standing close to her friend. If Coco could see her face, she would notice that her expression was wide eyed and worried. But she couldn’t help it. This was her first contest she was doing independently.

“Do you wonder if my outfits will do well?” Coco asked the batpony beside her.

However, Stich overheard the earth pony and commented, “Have I not told you that your designs were amazing?” The changeling’s brows slightly furrowed. “You need to understand who loves your dresses. And if she likes your work, then that should be enough.” And Coco knew exactly who Stitch was talking about. The mare did respect Chrysalis’ opinion dearly, but she was only one of many eyes. Changelings may have different tastes than ponies do.

But to keep her friend from leering at her, Coco nodded, “Yeah, you are right.” She placed a fake smile on to get Stich from being upset with her.

“Who is ‘she?’” Platinum asked Stitch.

“Our employer. She is the best, most amazing pony you will ever gaze your eyes upon!” Stitch’s eyes began to water as she imagined her queen walking down the runway, dressed in Coco’s lovely attire.

With Swift Light and Lily Bud now finished with their walk, the announcer’s voice spoke into the microphone, “Up next is Coco Pommel’s designs.” This is it! The world will now see your creation! Ever since the mare knew she was partaking in a contest, Coco knew that the moment would come sooner or later. Her heart pounded hard against her ribs and her knees quivered. But before her anxiety consumed her, Stitch and Velvet stood by Coco’s sides. They gave confident stares at her, almost trying to force the earth pony to be happy.

With their support, Coco took in a deep breath and looked forward, filled with determination. “Her line name is dubbed ‘Snowfall Ash.’ And her model’s names are Inferno Fang and Your Majesty.” And in the spotlight, the named changelings began their way down the runway, marching proud and strong. Fang held his leader’s hoof as his chest was puffed out. Chrysalis looked straight into the crowd with a lovely smile across her face. Coco had to admit it, her creations looked lovely in the light. Catching her eye, Fang flashed a smile at her as he reached the end of the runway.

Several camera flashes went off as Fang and Chrysalis stood in front of everypony, turning their heads this way and that, hoping good photos were taken. A huge amount of love flooded the crowd, almost overwhelming the queen. She has forgotten what it was like to be loved by so many when she had disguised as Princess Cadence. Turning a plastic smile at the princess, the changeling observed Cadence. No hard feelings from last year, dear. It was your beloved princess I was after.

After several moments of sucking in the crowd’s love, both Fang and Chrysalis walked back down where they came from. She stared down at her guard with a smile. This is perfect, she blinked. I am nearly full, and yet, I can still absorb more!

I am glad my queen. Or shall I say, Your Majesty. Fang nodded his head in respect to his leader.

At this point, you can call me Queen Chrysalis or Your Majesty. Both mean the same thing. Making their way backstage, Coco could no longer see them

“Now all we have to do is wait for the results,” Coco muttered, still feeling nervous.

“Again, I know you did well.” Stitch smiled at her friend, with tears rolling down her face. “You made her look so lovely up there. And I thank you for that.” Coco wanted to speak aloud about Chrysalis, but kept her tongue still.

“Next up, Suri Polomare!” No longer nervous, the earth pony now wanted to see her boss’s work in the spotlight. “Her brand name, ‘The Dairy Queen and Her Assistant.’ The models, Derpy Hooves and Time Turner.”

Time Turner and Derpy walked side-by-side, taken aback by the amount of ponies before them. The cross-eyed mare’s knees shivered, but her legs carried the pegasus forward. Just before the two got to the front of the stage, Derpy stumbled over her forelegs and fell over, chin first. Coco, along with the crowd gasped at the sudden fall. Blush bled over the pegasus’ cheeks, almost ready to cry.

But Time Turner was by her side, and helped her to her hooves. Placing his forehead onto hers, he muttered to her, “It’s okay, I am here. Don’t be upset.” Unable to stop herself, Derpy’s eyelids overflowed with salty liquid and tears streamed down her face. The crowd let out an “awww” at the stallion’s sweet gesture to her. Several cameras clicked and flashed, trying to capture the sweet moment.

Before long, the two left hoof in hoof. The crowd cheered for them a second time as the couple left. A hard sniff came from Stitch Snitch as she cried. “That was so sweet!”

“It was,” Platinum agreed with a nod. She looked to her new friend, rubbing her cheek into her dress.

“Sorry I-”

“It’s fine. You are just sensitive is all.” Platinum patted the mare’s shoulder gently. With a flushed face, Stitch touched his hoof and rubbed it. The batpony flinched, not expecting the motion. But then he kept it there, almost wanting around Stitch’s neck and pull her close to him.

“Hey Coco,” Velvet whispered. The pony’s ears twitched as she watched Stitch and Platinum standing close to each other. “Do you think they like each other?”

Turning to Velvet, Coco muttered back, “What do you think?” The two mares giggled a bit before looking back toward the stage.

“Our next contestant is-”

***

Coco stood in front of Derpy, seeing a small bruise on the pegasus’ chin. “You took quite a fall.” Looking to Time Turner, she smiled, “And that was quite a save on stage.”

The brown stallion only shrugged. “It was the right thing to do. If there is one thing I dislike more is to see my special somepony cry.” Derpy bumped into Time Turner, pressing her cheek against his.

“He is the bestest stallion ever!” she giggled, hugging him tightly in the process.

“It sure seems like it,” Coco agreed before looking to Fang who stood beside her. She then took back her previous statement, thinking there is other bestest stallion.

“Where is Suri?” Chrysalis asked, looking around the room. “I would assume she would want to be here when you walked down the runway.”

A frown sank Derpy’s cheeks. “She was here… But when we got back from walking onstage, she got mad at me for stumbling…” Fang and Chrysalis looked at each other with angry looks in their eyes. “At least she didn’t yell…” Derpy continued. “She just left all frustrated…”

“The trip was not your fault,” Time Turner spoke, pulling his lover close to him. “You looked beautiful out there and that is what mattered.” With the inability to be sad anymore, Derpy giggled and kissed her special somepony on the cheek.

“If you were a changeling,” the cheerful mare said, “I would feed you all of my love!”

“Well, let’s just hope there are none here tonight,” Time Turner muttered. Coco had to keep a straight face, not to give him any amount of suspicion.

“You two walked down the runway really good,” Derpy complimented with a nod to Fang and Chrysalis. “It’s like you two know how to be good models!”

“I know how to be in front of others,” Chrysalis replied. “That’s all. And Fang here can agree as well.”

“You are correct Your Majesty.” Fang looked at Coco with a sneer. “As for my friend here, she doesn’t know how to keep her composure when it comes to crowds.”

Coco snorted, bothered that Fang would choose now to tease her. “I have done contests before. It’s just… been a while.”

“Well I think yours will do well.” A voice not apart of the group made everypony stare at Suri. The mare expected the harsh stares from Fang and Your Majesty, so she didn’t bat an eye at them. She made her way over to Derpy and said, “Sorry for getting angry at you. It’s just… the heat of the competition gets to me…”

“I noticed…” Fang bit. Coco jabbed an elbow into his ribs, keeping him from making another input. He grunted a little, but unharmed by the weak blow.

With a small smile, Derpy nodded, “It’s okay. I forgive you.” Time Turner felt the side of his lip twitch upward, happy to see a change in Suri’s attitude.

“Glad to see you alive and well,” Coco spoke, wanting to get the tension off of Suri. “I didn’t see you backstage when I was checking in.”

“I was just sprucing up Derpy and Time Turner, making sure everything looked perfect before going back there.” Letting out a sigh, Suri looked to the two who wore her designs. “And despite our little hiccup, I think you two did very well.”

“Your attention, everypony!” Princess Cadence’s voice boomed as she spoke into the microphone. She stood on stage with her husband and paper in hoof. “The results of the contest have been concluded!”

The Fateful Event: The Victors

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Ch. 49

Coco Pommel had to swallow her heart as it almost jumped out of her throat. Even Suri Polomare had an anxious expression. Perhaps she wanted to win as much as Coco wanted. Sure, Coco did not know she was partaking in a contest before. But now that the results were upon her, victory was desired.

Coco shivered in place, awaiting the princess to speak. Coming to her side, Fang placed his hoof on the mare’s. “Do not worry. I guarantee you will win,” he smiled. The changeling did notice Suri glance at him for a moment before turning her attention back to the stage. He wanted her to lose bitterly, not get any acknowledgement for her works. Coco did smile at Fang but didn’t thank him. All of her attention was on Princess Cadence.

“I just want to say that it was very difficult for Shining Armor and I to decide the top three. And even with those three chosen, choosing a victor was even more challenging.” Cadence then hooved the microphone over to her husband.

“Behind me,” he spoke, gesturing to nine crowns, “are the trophies for the winners. Not only do they have the placing on them, but are also wearable as well. In other words, we will be… crowning the best of the best, literally.” Several ponies chuckled at the prince’s joke, while most clapped their hooves. His wife then gave Shining Armor the list she held. “So, with our third place winner, we have Cotton Ball’s for her Ace and Spades design!” A spotlight quickly found the trio of ponies as Swift and Lily embraced Cotton Ball with a supporting hug. “Will you three please make your way onto the stage.” At once, the three briskly walked on stage. Bowing their heads, the princess placed three silver crowns on their craniums. The crowns were simple, not having too much detail put into them. But the three contestants stood proudly on stage with the crowd clapping at their accomplishment.

After they left the stage, Cadence was given the microphone. With the list now in hoof, she took a deep breath, holding it in. The princess was taunting Coco Pommel, leaving her on edge. She gripped Fang’s hoof, it starting to get warm. And not because of his heading abilities.

“In second place, we have Thin Line with her Queen Bee’s Paladin design.” With a quick dash of the spotlight, it too found the winners. Chrysalis noticed her friend’s shivering and also placed her hoof on Coco. But instead of the hoof, the changeling placed hers on the mare’s shoulder.

“Worry not. Victory is near! I can taste it!” Despite all of the support she was given, Coco Pommel still had her doubts. There were at least twenty other fashion designers, all with their own special way of threading and tailoring. But then again, two of those twenty somewhat contestants were already declared winners. And with two now out of the game, there was a slightly better chance of her being the winner. After the second place winners had their golden crowns, they too left the stage.

At this point, Coco Pommel had her arm wrapped around Fang’s limb. She wanted to win. Badly. Perhaps the other changelings wanted her to become victorious as well, and not just for their queen to gain more love. Coco gave them a chance to come to the Grand Galloping Gala. And they should give the earth pony their respects.

“And now…” Cadence spoke lowly, making the air thick with tension, “the winner… of the Grand Galloping Gala’s fashion show is…” Fang and Chrysalis moved close to Coco, fully supporting her, demanding their friend’s victory. Coco’s heart knocked hard on her breastbone, almost wanting to hear the result on its own.

After a pause, the Princess of Love proclaimed, “SURI POLOMARE AND HER CREATION, THE DAIRY QUEEN AND HER ASSISTANT!”

Coco’s racing heart came to a complete stop. And almost fell out of her chest. The cheers in the ballroom echoed quietly in Coco’ Pommel’s head as she stared at the ground. The tears were already rolling down her sad cheeks as disappointment crashed down upon the depressed mare. Fang’s arm pulled her close to him, his body now heating up to a lukewarm temperature. Chrysalis looked down at her friend, not sure how to help but keep her hoof on Coco’s shoulder.

As the spotlight shined on Suri, she stood in awe. Normally, most first place winners would jump for joy, screaming with glee. Derpy certainly did as she pounced onto Time Turner. “We won! We won!” she cheered. Time Turner gave the pegasus a loving kiss on the lips in celebration. Even he was not expecting a standing ovation from everypony in the ballroom. But Suri was still in shock. Something inside her didn’t want to believe she had won. Her eyes looked at Coco and frowned. Never in her life did Suri think she would feel upset after victory in a contest.

“May the winners please make their way on stage please,” Shining Armor asked over the still applauding ponies. Derpy and Time Turner ran to the front of the stage as Suri took her time. Once all three were before the prince and princess, they bowed their heads, awaiting their trophies. Suri felt the weight of the diamond crown as it was placed upon her. It felt good to win. But it didn’t make her feel happy, knowing her ex-coworker, who had gave her mercy when confronted by changelings, was not even in the top three.

On the tile floor, Chrysalis looked down at Coco Pommel with a frown. “Coco, I’m… Your dresses were still the best in my eyes.”

But the reality of harsh defeat only bit hard into the pony’s heart. In a huff of sadness and jealousy, Coco broke her contact with Fang and made her way for the garden. “Let’s hear it for our first place winners!” Cadence spoke loudly. The crowd’s cheering taunts the earth pony.

The Fateful Event: Cedar Shadow

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Ch. 50

The cedar tree was all the company Coco wanted as she sat in the grass, shedding every tear she could. She began to mutter insults to herself, saying she wasn’t good enough to be a winner. In a fit of frustration, the mare thought of the contest was a stupid idea, only made to pit ponies against one another. Yet only one will come out on top, while the losers sat on the bottom in shame.

But what made Coco feel terrible about the entire situation, was that she felt she failed Queen Chrysalis. The mare did not fear the leader for her loss. Coco knew she would not be struck down for not being among the best. No. The earth pony felt a failure because the entire aim was to get love for the queen and the hive. She felt that she failed the entire hive! The smiling children she so loved may not get the food they desired. All because of her pathetic loss.

Coco tried to imagine herself up on stage, along with Chrysalis and Fang. The prized crowns being placed on their heads, pride filling them all. And then the queen leans into her ear and says, “The children will thank you dearly for this evening.” But Coco didn’t want to hold onto that false reality. It would poison her to the point where she may grow bitter and mean, envying anypony’s joy.

The sound of hoofsteps disturbed the grass, alerting the mare that somepony was on the approach. Her ears twitched and turned. The sound was coming from the left.

“Coco? Are you alright?” Fang’s voice almost heated Coco’s heart, only wanting him around. After all, he is the best stallion to vent to. If it wasn’t for Coco’s harsh sniffs and whimpers, he would have had to try harder to find her.

But Coco had no strength in her throat. It cramped with sadness and hurt. Rounding the small cedar tree, Fang came into view. Coco’s knight in handsome attire has come for her. Then again, the mare would rather not look at her creation that got her nothing out of the gala’s contest. “Hey…” The stallion came to Coco slowly, knowing exactly how to approach the situation. This isn’t the first time he has done this. Sitting beside her, he completed his sentence, “...you can talk to me.” Desiring his heat, the saddened mare scooted up against Fang, leaning her head on his shoulder. She felt the fabric she rested on start to warm her cheek. Coco hummed at the comforting feeling, letting Fang know he was doing the works for her. But that didn’t change how Coco was feeling.

“I feel like I failed, Fang…” she finally muttered. “That I failed every…” Coco leaned into Fang’s ear, preventing anypony that may have a hankering for eavesdropping. “...changeling…”

The changeling shook his head in disapproval. “You failed no one. You have done a fine job at what you have done. I swear.” He wrapped an arm around Coco’s torso, heating up his caring limb to further emphasize his care for her. Whispering into her, he said, “I am nearly full and so is the queen. We are nearly satisfied.”

Finally turning her glassy eyes to Fang, she asked, “R-really? Y-you p-promise?”

“I swear.” A smile lifted Coco’s cheeks a little, feeling slightly better. But the bitter taste of defeat was still on her tongue and Fang knew that. Knowing there was somepony better to discuss such matters, he stood up. “There are some ponies who wishes to talk to you.” He reached out a hoof, smiling down at Coco Pommel.

Naturally, she reached for the hoof, standing when Fang pulled her onto all fours. “Who?” Pulling her around the cedar tree, a group of ponies stood before her. Coco stood with a stunned stare, now flustered that she still had beads of tears at the corners of her eyelids. Chrysalis, Platinum, Velvet, Stitch, Suri, Derpy, Time Turner, Princess Celestia, Cadence, and Shining Armor looked back at her. Coco noticed the crowns Derpy, Time Turner, and Suri wore. They twinkled in the moonlight as the diamonds mimicked the lovely stars in the sky. Coco would have cared about them if it were not for the bodies here to support her.

“Your Majesty told us you were bothered with your loss,” Princess Celestia spoke, her voice ready to speak elegant wisdom. Coco nodded, still upset at not even placing. “If you think you are the only one upset with defeat, think again…” Gesturing to her right, a stallion sat at a bench, sitting with a frustrated gaze. Two finely dressed ponies sat beside him, trying to encourage him. Coco recognized the stallion; he was one of her competitors. And the mare and stallion beside the angered fashion designer spoke kind words into his ear.

“I am sorry for any amount of hurt you may feel, Coco,” Cadence now speaking, her face turning to Shining Armor. “And so does he.” The prince nodded at his wife’s comment. “But because we were the judges, the two of us needed to have a fair pair of eyes if there was to be an unbiased opinion.”

“You cannot win every battle,” Shining Armor inputted. “But take your losses, whatever they may be, and learn.”

Stepping from the group, Chrysalis looked down at Coco with a smile. “I am proud of you, my dearest friend. Nothing will make me detract from that truth.”

Coco took one step toward the queen. Then two. Then reached up to pull Chrysalis’ neck down and hug her. With tears of happiness rolling down Coco’s cheeks, she stuttered, “Thank you. For everything. Nothing will make me detract from that truth.” Coco could feel herself being pressed against Chrysalis as the changeling continued the embrace.

Finished with their friendly hold, Coco looked to the others who watched her and Chrysalis. Stitch was obviously crying as Platinum patted her shoulder. The rest looked upon her with smiles. “Thank you everypony for the support,” Coco spoke to the group. Everyone nodded, glad to have lifted the earth pony’s spirits.

Fang nudged Coco’s side. She turned to face a stallion with a flushed face. “So, in order to cheer you up and because of a promise I made… W-would you umm… come inside and d-d-dance with me? I hear they plan to play some slow dancing music.”

“O-oh!” Coco’s cheeks lit up, blush bleeding in. She shyly gazed away, but smiling a silly smile. “I-” Daring to look back at Fang, she held her hoof waiting for him to take it. “I would love to.” The mare was now embarrassed as the group witnessed the sweet act of Fang as they smiled and giggled among themselves.

With the earth pony’s hoof in his own, Fang spoke to the group, “Excuse us.” And with those two words, both made their way into the ballroom.

“You have a wonderful friend,” Celestia spoke, approaching Chrysalis.

“Indeed I do. Sometimes those who work for you are the best ponies that could ever be around you.” As the two mingled, the group started to disperse. Cadence and Shining Armor walked off with each other, while the other six still stood where they were before.

Derpy’s eyes rolled in her head a bit as she watched Stitch and Platinum talk to each other. “Are you two dating or something?” The two blushed, looking away from each other with flustered grins.

The Fateful Event: This Story of Ours

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Ch. 51

Both Coco and Fang stood by the appetizers as they witnessed the black stage quickly become disassembled. Unicorns and pegasi moved fast, hoping they are not bothering the guests with their noisy work.

Coco chewed on some cheese and crackers as she looked at Fang, giggling that he still held her hoof. Fang stood close to his friend in silence with a smile that spoke for him.

Finally swallowing her food, Coco said, “I wonder what song they will play as we dance.”

“Who knows,” Fang shrugged. The two looked away, flushed in the face, wondering how to go about their conversation.

“Hey, I know I have said this a million times,” the mare spoke, but not looking at the changeling, “but thank you for finding me.” Unable to keep her eyes off him, Coco faced Fang, blushing even more now that he had to see her flustered gaze. “I just… never thought things would turn out so great. Except for losing the contest of course.” Coco frowned, still affected by her defeat.

“As am I. This story of ours has gone through so much. And I am glad to be a part of your scenario. And I- I hope our story can go on for a long time.” His grip on Coco’s hoof slightly tightened as he stared into her aquamarine iris.’

“And I wonder when you will be less of a side character.” Fang’s brows creased as Coco cracked a joke. She chuckled a little bit, enjoying her friend’s sudden change of emotion.

“Hey, I am more than just a side character in your story,” he frowned.

“Then what am I in yours?” Coco asked.

Flashing his sharp fang with a sneer, he replied, “Background character.” A rasp of hot air escaped Coco, insulted at how low she was in Fang’s story.

“At least I was being generous.” She turned around, her tail slapping Fang in the cheek. Others who witnessed the act looked at Fang, assuming he said or did something rude and gave him nasty stares.

However, the changeling knew Coco didn't hate him for his joke. “I know you still love me.”

Turning back to him, the mare advanced at Fang and kissed his cheek. “Maybe I do,” she winked, her cheeks mimicking the blend of strawberries and cream. The stallion kept his eyes on hers, wondering if the color in his face was changing.

“Attention everypony!” Princess Cadence’s voice boomed in the ballroom. Coco looked to where the noise came from, and noticed the black stage was nowhere to be seen. Whoever was apart of the cleanup crew needs to make sure they get payed well.

As silence reigned, the princess continued, “I again want to thank all participants for being apart of the Grand Galloping Gala’s first ever fashion contest.” A nice round of applause rang out in the large room. “As for those who did not place, I want to remind you all that it was a difficult choosing the victor. You are all great at what you do. Do not tell yourself you are not good enough and quit because of one defeat. Keep going down your path. Success will meet you.”

A healthy applause grew in the crowd, a few whistles “fweeting” from several ponies. After the noise died, a new sound filled the room. A cello hummed loudly as its notes drifted through the air. Two ponies sat on what looked to be a more permanent stage, yet smaller than the black one. A gray earth pony swayed her body back and forth as she played her song, and a stallion across the little platform sat at a piano. After a few seconds of playing the cello, the pianist began started pressing his hooves on the keys.

“To lift up any dampened spirits,” Shining Armor spoke to the crowd, “my wife and I have a nice consolation prize. And if there are any lucky stallions out there with a special mare in mind, I would take her hoof right now.”

Fang grabbed Coco’s in quick succession upon the prince’s request, pulling her close. The earth pony gasped a little, her cheeks flaring with blush. Slowly, a smile grew on Coco’s lips, lifting faster than the moon or sun could ever do. “Am I that special mare in mind?”

The changeling smirked on the side of his mouth. “I don’t just snatch up any pony you know. After all, you are the perfect protagonist in my novel.” At the corner of his eye, Fang noticed several pairs of ponies cover the open space that only he could consider as the dance floor. “Shall we- be a part of each other’s stories?” His blush was clearly visible on his crimson fur.

Coco Pommel slowly nodded. “I would love for you to be my main character.” With his question answered, Fang guided the mare onto the dancing floor.

They found a nice open space among the dancers before the two started to dance. Both the cello and piano proved to be a handsome compliment as the notes touched the mare’s heart. The music helped sway Coco as she stepped along with Fang. She danced close to her partner as his body kept her warm. Her face was very close to the changeling’s, looking up to his handsome face. It was beginning to increase the mare’s heart rate.

“I-” Coco suddenly found it difficult to breath. “You-” Overwhelmed with joy and adrenaline, she rested her cheek on Fang’s breast. She could hear his hot heart pound in his chest, perhaps much faster than hers. “This is lovely, isn’t it?”

“Yes, you are.” Fang lightly pressed his hoof on the back of Coco’s head, carefully cradling it as they swung along with the music. The mare giggled, her entire face almost red. The cello let out a sweet chirp, piercing the two dancers’ hearts. Then, Shining Armor’s voice sang, making the moment even more lovely:

It doesn’t matter if the days are dark,
It doesn’t matter if it starts to rain,
For I will always spark your inner flame.
I’ll be your shining light
I’ll make you feel no pain.

Following his pause, Cadence’s voice came quickly:

Because it matters that you care,
Because it matters that you’re here,
I’ll always be your heart you come to love.
You always make me smile,
You make me know no fear.

In concession, both prince and princess sang:

My dear, my love, please don’t cry,
For I am right by your side.
If anything begins to get too hard,
I’ll always need to say,

‘Please one step at a time,
We should not be in a hurry.
Through perseverance, we’ll make it through.
Everything’s going to be fine.

The music touched Coco’s heart to the point that she began to cry tears of joy. “Why are you crying?” Fang asked, lifting her chin with his hoof.

“I am just… so happy to be with you. And this music is so beautiful, so that is a contributor to my sobbing.” Coco sniffed, keeping any snot that may roll out of her nostrils.

“Then stop crying.” The changeling smirked at the pony. “Or I may have to do something that will sap all of your sadness.”

“And what might that be?” Coco brought her head up to Fang’s. The front of her skull and roof of her muzzle gently rested against his. She could smell his breath, which was not the most pleasant. But she was sure Fang could smell hers.

“Let’s umm… listen to the music. I don’t want to answer any questions right now.” Coco and Fang wore the same shy smile as they stared deeply into each other’s eyes. The mare could care less about the simple joke. It was the moment that mattered.

After the cello and piano finished their solo’s, the two singers sang along with each other:

Because this moment feels so strong,
Because this moment is because of love.
With every step you take with me,
A ride we’ll do together,
So please will you come along?

Because this isn’t just because of me,
Because this isn’t a one sided coin,
I may be modest, but it is so true
All we did was conjoin
And we live happily.

A long journey has now come,
It’s now the event we’ve both need.
But there is no need to rush,
Why should we hurry, why should we have to run?

‘Please one step at a time,
We should not be in a hurry.
Through perseverance, we’ll make it through.
Everything will be fine.

“Fang?” Coco spoke lowly, her forehead still up against the stallion.

“Yes?” he asked, almost wanting to call her the questionmare. But he withheld the joke, not willing to ruin the moment between them.

“You- you are-” She swallowed her stutter, committing to what she needed to say. “Fang, you are the most amazing stallion!” The air around the changeling was suddenly gone; the mare has stolen his breath. “A-and-! I just want to thank you. For everything.” Coco’s heart rattled her rib-cage, her body trembling. Fang took her shiver as her being cold and warmed his body up.

“Coco, you already have.” His smile heated her heart as he rocked her back and forth.

“No, I have not…” The piano’s keys sang sweet, high notes as the pony parted her forehead from Fang’s. Her face was flushed, hot with blush. She touched the changeling’s chin, then stroking the back of his neck.

Fang stiffened his movement. The stallion never knew what it was like to be frozen until this point. It was a strange feeling; however, there was a lack of coldness to his still body. It was warm. Very warm. Perhaps being frozen by a mare was like a flame that soothed the body to the point of ecstasy. He was new to this feeling. And he wanted to remain still forever.

Knowing what she wanted to do, Fang wrapped around his arm around Coco’s neck, looking down at the mare he loves. He blinked, staring into the the aquamarine pools the mare held. Coco pressed up against his chest, feeling their hearts racing in unison.

After taking a tiny breath, Coco parted her lips slightly. She stretched her neck up toward the handsome stallion. Fang watched the lovely mare slowly closing her eyes, ready to “thank” him. The queen’s advice ran through his head, telling him she will no longer see Coco after the evening. Even if that were true, Fang didn’t care. He couldn’t deny his emotions that he felt for Coco. And he couldn’t deny hers. The pony’s love gushed out of her. In his vision, he was surrounded by a pink mist. The only thing that was visible was Coco, the mare he loved.

Lowering his neck for the pony, Fang too began to close his eyes. Their hearts were at an incredible tempo, unable to hide what was true. After a few moments, their lips collided. Coco gasped through her nose, amazed that they had kissed. The cello sang so cheerfully as it continued to play, begging the pony to press harder. And she did. She lurched her neck up, pushing deep against his lips as she touched Fang’s hot cheeks.

As he kissed Coco, he parted his eyes to see a sweet mare lost in a kiss. A shiny stream of tears leaked through her eyelids. If he could, Fang would smile. But that would interrupt their beautiful moment. The moment they parted their lips, the two looked at each other, almost forgetting what they had just done. A sweet smile quickly lifted Coco’s cheeks as she lunged at Fang. She stood on two hooves as her forelimbs wrapped tightly behind his neck. “I hope that was enough to tell you how thankful I am for you.”

Now standing on his hind legs, the changeling danced with Coco, holding his hoof in hers. “It was more than enough,” he replied, kissing her cheek. She giggled at his kind gesture.

After what seemed like an eternity, Cadence and Shining Armor resumed their singing:

‘Please one step at a time,
We should not be in a hurry.
Through perseverance, we’ll make it through.
Everything will be fine.

Everything will be fine.

Yes, everything will! Be! Fine!

A nice round of applause erupted as the music concluded. With the song concluded, Coco and Fang removed their hold on each other and stood with all hooves on the tile. The pony had to wipe the tears from her cheeks, now flustered her emotions got the best of her.

“That was… nice,” Coco muttered, her voice cracking. She looked to the stage, watching Princess Cadence and Shining Armor bowing to the still cheering crowd.

“No,” Fang shook his head. Coco looked at him with a raised brow, but then noticed his smile. “It was lovely. Just as lovely as you are.” Another hug from Coco took Fang by surprise as her arms once more wrapped around his neck. In turn, the changeling brushed his cheek against the mare’s face with affection.

In the corner of his eye, Fang saw his queen standing beside Princess Celestia. The princess looked at him and Coco with a bright smile. However, Chrysalis stared him down with a disappointing shake of the head.

I warned you… she blinked.

Shaken by her silent message, Fang had to almost pry himself off of the mare. With a false smile, he asked her, “Why don’t we go on our own and mingle a bit?”

“Okay,” she beamed.

The Fateful Event: Unveil

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Ch. 52

Coco stood with Chrysalis, Cadance, and Celestia as she explained how she and Fang ended up kissing. “So he told me that he was glad I was a part of his story, and I wanted to thank him for everything. After all, I wouldn’t be here if he didn’t find me in Manehattan. And then… well, I can assume you know what happened next.” Coco blushed, her eyes dancing around the ballroom, seeking out the stallion. But her search yielded no results and gave up quickly.

“I must admit, Coco,” Cadence spoke, “it makes me happy to see yourself in love with him. Romance is a lovely thing when it blooms.”

“In love is a strong statement princess.” The cream mare’s cheeks lit up even more, not sure if she was in love with Inferno Fang. “The moment was perfect, so… it just happened.”

Celestia looked like she was about to speak. “Do not deny your emotions if you truly do feel strongly about him.” The princess turned her attention to the queen. “Wouldn’t you agree?”

“I say Coco should give herself more time before leaping into something that changes your life. You two are strong friends. That I know.” Chrysalis had to keep herself from frowning, knowing this would be the last night Coco will see Fang. Unless the unveiling goes well.

“Everypony,” Coco interjected, not sure how to take in all the advice given to her. “I am truly grateful for the wisdom you all have, but let me decide for myself.”

“As you wish,” Celestia nodded, glancing at the ponies who made their way around the large room. “We all have a will to follow, no matter what others may tell us.”

The next few hours went by at a nice pace of time. Coco and Chrysalis made sure they spent the rest of the evening with each other. They talked not only with the two princesses, but also with Velvet, Stitch, and even Platinum. Fang was nowhere to be found, however, and it was a mystery to Coco. She wanted to talk to him about the kiss they had when they danced earlier. Then again, he was probably on his own thinking about it himself. But Coco told herself she will see him another time. And when that time comes, she will bring light to it.

It was 11:37. Coco, Chrysalis, and Celestia stood at the entrance of the castle as the princess said farewell to guests who began to make their leave.

“You want to know something humorous, my friends?” Princess Celestia asked lowly with a sneer. Coco and Chrysalis glanced at each other before looking back at the alicorn. “Normally, the Grand Galloping Gala is a boring and awful event.”

“Really?!” Coco exclaimed. Other ponies looked at her with a bothered stare. Her ears fell back in embarrassment as the two tall mares giggled at the small outburst. It took a short while before Coco was able to speak again, no longer flustered. “From what I have heard from other ponies, it was the place of opportunities, where employers come to look for experienced talent.” Chrysalis nodded as well, curious as to why the host would harshly criticize her event.

“All I do is just greet ponies as they come and go,” Celestia replied before another guest walked by. She gave the pony a nod, and the unicorn complimented the princess on another wonderful gala. “But because my attention was elsewhere this evening, I was able to spend my time with great ponies.”

“And I can assume the 'great ponies' that you spent time with was us, correct?” Chrysalis smirked, knowing most of the night, Princess Celestia’s attention was with herself and Coco.

“You can say that.” Celestia winked before watching a couple approach her. Coco smiled as she saw Derpy and Time Turner come forth, their diamond crowns glistening in the light.

“Hello, you two winners.” The words slightly burned her tongue as Coco spoke her words, still upset about the contest.

“Good evening, ladies,” Time Turner spoke to those he approached with a polite bow. Derpy stopped herself to bow as well. But the mare’s back hoof got tangled in her skirt and fell forward with her arms sprawled out. Thankfully, the trophy did not slip from her cranium. Coco and Celestia took a step forward to try and help the clutsy mare, but her stallion was quickly at her side, helping her up. “Either when Derpy is head over hooves for me or for just being clumsy, she never ceases to make me smile.”

Nopony could help but smile at Time Turner’s sweet gesture. The gray pegasus blushed and kissed her lover’s cheek in response to his kindness. After saying their farewells, Derpy and Time Turner left hoof in hoof.

As the minutes went on, Coco glanced between Chrysalis and Celestia. She pondered when the changeling queen was going to make her move. On que, Chrysalis turns to the princess and speaks, “It was nice to have you show me around Canterlot. I have a much better picture of this kingdom you so graciously rule.”

Celestia smiled in response with a shrug. “It is my duty as a friend to help those unfamiliar with my home.”

“And I bet you two had a great time together, yes?” Coco Pommel beamed. The mare was beginning to think the time for the unveiling was about to commence.

“We did.” Celestia glanced at another passerby with a nod. “However, the only thing I have not shown you around was the castle. Would you mind?” An interesting question, considering it was the princess who suggested it. Coco was expecting Chrysalis to bring light to take them someplace quiet by casually bringing it up. Even the queen seemed surprised with the statement.

Knowing she had to take this chance, Chrysalis pretended to sound humble about the question. “You do not have to.” She found it hard to sound convincing. After all, Chrysalis did not want to go through with revealing herself to the princess. The only reason the changeling was going through with this was only for her friend.

“But I insist.” With her white arm, Princess Celestia gestured her hoof to the hall to Coco’s left.

To those who think the Queen of Changelings has no heart, they would be wrong. Chrysalis had an unnerving feeling in her breast as her pulse began to increase. Something was not right. And she needed to pull her facade even closer to her face. “Might my friend come along as well?”

“Of course. We wouldn’t want to leave her alone by herself, now do we?” Does she know it’s me?! Chrysalis watched Celestia smile at her friend. A smile that too was a facade. Does she suspect Coco for being a changeling? It was easy to maintain her expression; however, Chrysalis was starting to worry. No! Stop. Get a grip on yourself. You have gained enough food for yourself and you are here on a peaceful harvest for love. Perhaps my actions tonight may sway Celestia. Hopefully...

“Why would we leave such a mare to trek on her own?” And if Princess Celestia tries anything rash, I will strike her down as I did one year ago.

“If you both don’t mind.” Coco looked at her friend, now believing the time has come.

Taking the first step to a potentially great future, Celestia said with a wide smile, “Then I shall assist you both with a tour of my home.” As the alicorn walked a bit ahead of Coco and Chrysalis, the changeling mouthed “remember.” Coco nodded, remembering to pretend to play ignorant when the queen tosses the vail off.

As they walked past a pegasus guard, the princess stumbled a bit, her golden shoe falling off her hoof. “Oh dear!” The instant Celestia lost her hooving, the shining guard went to her side and helped place the apparel back where it belongs. “Thank you.”

“Of course princess.” He thumped the butt of his spear on the tile with pride, glad to assist his leader. Resuming his post, the pegasus stilled himself as he once did before.

“Sorry about that,” Celestia apologised, turning her head back with a worried grin. “These shoes of mine can be a bit difficult sometimes.”

“It is fine,” Chrysalis replied, not sure what to make of the stumble. “Shall we?” Without another word, Princess Celestia marched forward with Coco and Chrysalis in tow, leaving the room behind them. Before rounding a corner, Coco looked back to see the polite pegasus.

He was no longer there. Wonder where he went…

***

The air grew a lot colder as the night went on. However, Stitch was not aware of the crisp air as she walked beside Platinum in the garden. Both walked in silence, not sure what to say to break the quiet atmosphere. Somehow finding themselves back at the cedar tree, where they first met, they looked at each other with a smile.

“So, this is where we met, hugh?” Platinum finally spoke, not what else to say.

“Yeah.” Stitch had to look at the moon to keep her eyes off the bat pony. He may make her cry again. “And… I am glad we became friends.” A hard lump formed in the changeling’s throat and had to swallow it. But the pain was too much and she began to sob a bit.

“Must you look so upset when you tear up?” Platinum gave the mare a sad smile. He stepped closer in hopes to comfort Stitch. The mare noticed the invite and moved close toward him. Too close. Their sides touched and both flinched. But they found it hard to step away, and even more difficult to look away from each other. To Platinum’s disappointment at himself, the shiny tears ran even faster. “Try smiling.” Daring to go further with his attempt to stop the waterworks, the bat pony rose his hoof to Stitch’s chin, lifting it slightly up with a gentle push. Thankfully, he got what he wanted.

Stitch giggled as she grinned, not wanting to move herself. “You are very sweet, Platinum.” A pink mist flooded out of the stallion, the love clouding around the cedar. “And now I want to… return the favor.”

The moonlight shined down brightly as if to try and mimic the sun’s light. It was as if Princess Luna was watching the moment between the stallion and mare, trying her best to make the evening more lovely for the two.

Platinum and Stitch stared at each other, blush flooding their cheeks. They both wore the same expressions that held the same thoughts. The two wanted to do show more affection, but they had just met only a few hours ago. Perhaps romance can start after a single night.

Making the first move, Stitch wiped her tears first, then placed an arm around Platinum’s neck. To the stallion’s surprise, he saw no salty streams on the mare. “You are not crying,” he beamed, leaning further into Stitch.

“Maybe it’s because I trust you.” Their noses pointed at each other, drawing closer like magnets. Stitch had to lift her head up if she were to connect her lips with Platinum. By the time their mouths were near, neither of them had their eyes open.

A loud whistle pierced the quiet night. Platinum’s ears twitched at the sound and gasped, looking to the air. A figure darted through the black sky, “fweeting” once more. “What is it?” The stallion could feel Stitch’s warm breath on his neck, uninterested in the sudden noise. Platinum’s pupil slits thinned, his eyes wide with shock.

Princess Celestia was in need of assistance!

“Stitch!” Platinum grabbed the mare’s shoulders not too tight, but enough to emphasise his serious attitude. “I- I need to go!”

“What’s wrong?” Stitch turned her head in curiosity. “Does it have something to do with that whistle?”

Hooves trampled through the soft grass and the two turned to see Velvet looking nervous. “Did you hear ‘the call!?”

The stallion bared his teeth with frustration. “Ugh, if only we were on watch tonight!” With his white fangs still visible, Platinum glanced down at Stitch who was admiring his teeth. “I mean no insult to you.”

Stitch didn’t seem to mind the comment, but the situation about ‘the call’ was confusing her. “What is going on?” she asked, her voice demanding an answer.

Without answering the question, Platinum stepped away from the mare and fanned out his leathery wings. “Bagh! I don’t care if I am not on tonight’s watch. I am going to go protect the princess!”

“Brother, no!” Before Velvet could get to her sibling’s side, Stitch was in front of him.

“W-what do you mean?” Oh no! Was the queen found out?! The changeling’s eyes widened with fear as a fresh stream of tears rolled down her cheeks.

With no warning, Platinum leaned toward Stitch and kissed her lips. With her breath taken, Stitch stumbled a bit as her knees buckled in. His cheeks flushed, but the serious expression the stallion wore was still bore. Looking to his sister, he spoke with authority, “You watch her. And let nopony near the two of you until I get back.” He turned around, his wings almost hitting the two mares. “There might be changelings about…”

Platinum leapt high into the air with a quick burst of speed. After rounding the castle, he saw several pegusi were grouped up at the roof of a tower. Touching down on the tile, the stallions looked to Platinum with hard stares.

“I didn’t know we had bats on watch with us tonight…” a guard commented in a gruff tone. Others joined in with the harassment and laughed at the small jab.

“Do we have a visual on Princess Celestia?” Platinum ignored the snide comment, wanting to get to business.

A light-blue guard gestured to window below where three ponies walked through the halls. “She is being followed by two mares. Apparently, Princess Celestia is showing them around the castle according to Stand Guard as he watched the three trek into the castle.” Platinum didn’t care if Stand Guard was among them, but was thankful he saw the “loose shoe” signal.

Looking harder into the windows, Platinum recognised the two followers. His realization almost caused him to stumble off of the roof. “I- I saw them together earlier! And I know the cream one personally!”

***

“What is interesting about these halls was that they were crafted by earth ponies,” Celestia spoke, gesturing to the large walkway with a smile. “It was the unicorns that added the final touches, such as adding the drapes, carpet, and various other decorations you see.”

“And what about the pegusi? What did they contribute?” Coco couldn’t keep her curious mind shut as she spat out another question for the princess to answer.

“They were the ones who sought out materials throughout Equestria. With their abilities to fly, finding marble and white stone was not a problem.” Turning back, but without stopping, Celestia asked, “Any more questions?”

“If she does ask anymore,” Chrysalis interjected, “I give you permission to call her questionmare.”

A laugh escaped Princess Celestia, amused at the silly pet name. “How amusing! I can assume your friend keeps you quite busy with her questioning, does she not?” The two larger mares glanced at Coco to see her bothered with the teasing. “Oh, I apologize if I had upset you…” Celestia frowned.

“It’s fine,” Coco grumbled a little, but managed to hold a sarcastic smile. They may both be leaders, but that does not mean I appreciate the heckling from either of them…

The three rounded a corner and Celestia resumed her tour as if the joking never occurred. “To the right here, we have Star Swirl the Bearded’s old office.”

“Shall we see what is inside?” Chrysalis asked almost too quickly. The door to the old wizard’s dwelling swung open even faster.

“But of course.” The princess gestured the Coco and Chrysalis to enter with a light smile. The earth pony walked in with ease. However, the queen was beginning to think Celestia was catching onto what was going on. Nonetheless, Chrysalis too, entered. An anchient desk that was riddled with dust and age rested by the window. Nothing rested upon it aside from a brass lamp that had no oil in it. To the left of the desk was a long bookshelf that stretched alongside the wall. Novels that bore long lost runes peaked Coco’s interest as she walked over to them, almost wanting to ask what they mean.

“I remember when I gave Star Swirl the Bearded this small place.” Celestia entered, her voice sounding a bit louder than usual. Coco turned around to see the princess standing in the middle of the room with Chrysalis beside the door. The queen stared hard at Celestia’s back, looking as if she wants to impale the princess with her black horn. “He was a wonderful stallion. And-”

KUKUNCK!

The door was closed shut by Chrysalis, sealing the three mares in the small office. Noise became void as they stood all stood still. “Why did you close the door, Your Majesty?” From Coco’s perspective, she noticed Princess Celestia’s slate-faced expression. She did not look worried, but not angry as well.

“I wish to not have an audience of any potential onlookers…” Chrysalis spoke with her normal voice. Remember Coco: pretend. Doing her best to fake being surprised, the earth pony gasped loudly at the change of voice.

Turning around, the white alicorn now wore a frown. “I was hoping… Praying even… That you were not her.”

“So you had your suspicion?” At this point, there was no need to hold her disguise anymore. The lovely white fur Chrysalis wore was now replaced with her black skin in a quick flash of green flame. “When?”

Coco shivered in place with her eyes wide. She did shake not with fear, however. The mare was now nervous, not sure how things were going to play out.

“Your name,” Celestia spoke low, her brows now creasing and her horn looking sharp.

The Fateful Event: Black Beneath the White

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Ch. 53

“W-what is this?!” Coco muttered, playing the role Chrysalis asked her to do. The earth pony shivered as Princess Celestia squared off with Queen Chrysalis, not sure what else she can do.

The changeling took a few steps toward Coco, flashing her sharp teeth with a wide grin. “Oh my questionmare friend, I do apologize for concealing my identity from you a secret. But if I were to convince you into working for me, I needed to be something less frightening.”

Princess Celestia made sure she stood between Coco and Chrysalis, in case the changeling decided to act irrationally. “So, you tricked this poor mare to fuel your horrible bidding?” The alicorn looked back at the pony with a frown. Coco frowned back, knowing Princess Celestia was wrong. Coco worked for Queen Chrysalis out of her own volition.

“Horrible bidding?!” Chrysalis remarked sarcastically, pointing her hoof at her breast. “How terrible of me for doing absolutely nothing wrong this evening.” The queen’s tone dramatically changed as her sentence went on. She looked hard at Celestia. “You want to know exactly why I have done what I have done?” Princess Celestia did not answer the question; she kept pointing her horn at the black creature. “All I did was use tonight to obtain love as food. That’s it. After all, we changelings have to scavenge for the emotion because nopony is willing to give us any. It is a shame that my kind, including myself, have to trick others into giving us what we need. Otherwise, I would have no issue with you princess.”

Coco was trying so hard to not go against her friend’s request. She wanted to vouch for the Queen of Changelings before Celestia. But the pony believed in her friend and her methods.

“Interesting…” the princess spoke low. “I was expecting you and your hive to come out and do some form of harm. Even if this was not as severe as another invasion, you did cause some hurt.”

Chrysalis turned her head, wondering what Celestia ment. “And what might that be?”

Pointing her hoof at Coco Pommel, the alicorn growled, “Look at your ‘friend!’ That is, if she is one to you.” The sudden drawing of attention shook Coco even more. She was still playing the dummy, but was not faking her nervous attitude. “I don’t know how long she has worked for you, but I can easily tell that she is shocked beyond belief to see her employer hold such a treacherous lie away from her.”

You are wrong! Coco wanted to shout.

“Did you have your changelings hide their identity from Coco as well?” Chrysalis looked at Celestia, not interested in answering her stupid question. She wanted to ask her own.

“I have a question for you, princess.” Celestia straightened herself, showing she was listening. “Do you think I don’t care about Miss Coco Pommel?” Coco’s ears twitched as she heard her name be formally mentioned. “Do you view me as some heartless love eater that has no emotions?” Chrysalis began to pace around the room in a circle. Celestia, in turn, began to move as well, following after the changeling. “I don’t want you to answer my questions; I want you to hear me out…” The queen’s teeth flashed with anger, speaking through the cracks of her jagged fangs. “Let me explain why I hate you.”

Coco watched the two leaders circle each other like sharks, wondering why Chrysalis was behaving so angrily. The pony knew Chrysalis hated Princess Celestia because she inadvertently caused the death of her daughter. Perhaps the changeling needed to tell the princess the meaning behind her actions.

“Celestia…” Queen Chrysalis gazed upon her hated enemy, knowing she had to keep her emotions in check for Coco’s sake. “Why must I be cursed to scurry in the shadows and feed off of emotions like an ant, while you have all ponies across Equestria give you love that you don’t eat. You have all this love in the world, yet you couldn't spare me, nor my hive any of it.”

The pace of the two quickened slightly. It seemed that if the leaders got any more aggressive, they may charge at each other with their horns drawn, like jousters ready to knock their opponent down. “What do you mean ‘couldn’t?’”

Stopping her movement, Chrysalis stopped in front of Coco; Celestia was now on the other side of the room. Coco was feeling a little more comfortable now that her friend stood before her instead of the princess.

Chrysalis’ expression was as cold as the winter that claimed her daughter so long ago. “One-thousand years ago, I came to you, freezing and starving. I asked you in the name of peace to spare me and my hive some love. NOT all of it!” Chrysalis’ voice echoed in the office a bit before the books swallowed the bouncing noise. “Just! Some. And then-” The changeling took a deep breath, the memories of her daughter, both best and worst, crashed down into Chrysalis mind. “You- She-” Something inside Chrysalis’ breast refused her to speak of Beauty Fly. She did not want wish to show her pain to the alicorn. It was not to just hide the hurt that Celestia caused. The queen wanted Celestia to remember her daugher. “That winter, you denied me, my hive, and-” Again, her tongue refused to speak of the long lost child.

“You denied us love!” Chrysalis shouted loudly. Her voice shook Coco to the very core. “And you took away my love!” Unable to keep her emotions in check, the changeling queen leered at Princess Celestia, demanding that she remembers.

But the alicorn looked unfazed by the sudden burst of anger. “I have no idea what you are going on about…”

Chrysalis sucked in air through her nostrils in frustration. She doesn’t remember?! Her eyes darted back at Coco, and saw her friend wield a look of disbelief. At least you believe me, despite you not being alive many years ago. Shaking her head, removing all angry emotions, the changeling gazed back to Celestia. “Well, I strongly remember what you did to me.”

The alicorn had to take a few steps in order to see Coco behind Chrysalis. “Did she spread lies about me to you?”

Obedient, Coco shook her head. “She said nothing about you. I never knew she disliked you so much.” Hiding her face of guilt, the mare moved out of Celestia’s vision, back behind her friend. It hurt her that she had to lie to the princess and she wanted to spill the truth. But her friend’s trust was strong in her heart. “A-and if she did, I don’t think neither of us would have spent time with you.”

“She could have told you to keep quiet about her words.” Coco gulped, knowing she is doing exactly what Chrysalis said. Looking back at the queen, Celestia asked, “Do you feel any amount of guilt, knowing you used a pony who trusted you?” Chrysalis could tell Celestia was trying hard to make the queen sound like a villain. But there was no guilt; Coco chose to work for Chrysalis anyways.

“I do actually…” Both Celestia and Coco were surprised to hear those words. “I have grown fond of Miss Pommel. Her kindness, her generosity, and her love.” Chrysalis turned around to see the earth pony, and smiled at her. “Even my changeling drones have taken a liking to you.”

Thinking she had permission to remark, Coco spoke nervously, “I would believe you, b-but you still lied to me. And… I-”

“Come to me, Coco” The princess invited the pony with a warm smile and an arm out wide. “Do not be afraid to leave her side.” Despite how Celestia’s words sang with promise, they stabbed at Coco’s heart. She didn’t want to leave Chrysalis. Chrysalis was her friend. Still, she had to play ignorant and walked toward the alicorn.

“Wait, please!” The queen spoke with desperation in her throat. Coco stopped, not even taking two steps and looked at Chrysalis. The changeling looked down at her with a sad furrow in her brow. Was she pretending for Princess Celestia? Or was her cry sincere? “Coco… don’t go to her…You are my friend and- and I wish for you not to abandon me.”

In the corner of eye, the earth pony watched Celestia spectate, her horn stabbing in Chrysalis’ direction. “But you lied to me about your identity…” Coco squeaked, hurt by her friend’s act. Or was it real? Did Chrysalis not want her to leave after tonight? The question’s were beginning to give Coco a stressful headache.

“B-but think about the times we had.” In a flash of green flames, the queen changed into her white unicorn facade, but still wielding her upset expression. “The laughs. The tears. The friends you made. I swear on my crown that the changelings do care for you. Except for one or two that is…”

Scar Splash. For some reason he hates me… But the pros outweighed the cons in Coco’s mind. She reminisced about the other tailors she spent time with. The children she played with; despite them making a game off of her. And Fang.

Oh, Fang. His kiss. It was no act from a play. His love was real and Coco couldn’t hide that. Chrysalis reached out a hoof as beads of tears formed at her eyelids. Just the sight was almost enough for Coco to tell Celestia the truth of her friend. “I learned so much from you,” the queen spoke, her voice shaking. “And I wish to not have you walk out of my life.” It was too much for the mare to see Chrysalis speak so loving and caused Coco to sob. “Please, my dearest friend, be the generous mare that you are and never end our friendship.”

“I won’t!” Coco shook her head, tears flinging from her face. “I won’t end my friendship with you, even if you are a changeling!” Looking up to Chrysalis, who now no longer held her unicorn disguise, the earth pony smiled. “You pulled me out of a terrible hole I fell in, and shed light onto my world.” That was true and Coco would not play stupid on that fact. “Even if you lied about what you are…” That was a fib, of course. “...who you are, who I worked for. That is the mare I care about.”

Without hesitation, Chrysalis pulled Coco close to her with a warm embrace. “Thank you, Coco Pommel,” she whispered low into her ear.

“Your welcome.” The earth pony did not know how long she cried for, nor did she care. Celestia was not going anywhere anyways.

No longer holding onto Coco, Chrysalis turned her attention back to the princess. Celestia held her posture more straight, no longer holding her horn low.

“It is strange, a simple earth pony befriending me, the Queen of Changelings.”

“Indeed,” was all Celestia could muster up, trying to take in what she witnessed as quickly as possible. “And I don't understand why she would.”

Coco felt insulted, as if slapped by the words she just heard. The mare was beginning to understand why Chrysalis disliked Celestia. Ever since the queen has shown herself to the princess, Celestia has spoken no kind words to the changeling. Perhaps the ruler of Equestria didn’t understand the shapeshifters, maybe even feared them.

Chrysalis blinked at Coco. “If I am not mistaken, hasn’t your most prized pupil befriended the Lord of Chaos?”

“Don’t bring Twilight Sparkle into this!” Celestia demanded, her demeanor on the defensive.

“Oh but I will.” As the two stared each other down, Coco felt alienated, not sure what Chrysalis was going on about. “That creature that you allow to roam free can literally turn my world, and yours, up-side-down. And yet you have given him the chance to be free. All in the name of friendship.”

“What are you getting at?” The princess’ gaze turned toward the window before turning back to the two before her.

“Must you be so snippy?” Chrysalis furrowed her brow with irritation. “I just told you why I don’t like you because you have refused to give me, or my subjects any love. Also! Despite my friend here not knowing I was a changeling all this time, she still remains by my side. In other words, dear Princess Celestia…” Stepping forward, the queen wore a sincere smile as she came towards the alicorn. “...I wish to extend my friendship to you.” Coco gasped at the realization at what was going on; Chrysalis was about to set things right between herself and Celestia. “I apologize for lying to you this entire day. Perhaps we are even.”

Chrysalis’ smile faded. “You killed something of mine when you denied my changelings love in the past. And I will be honest, I still hate you for it. Today, I made you trust me before seeing the black beneath my white. I understand if you are angry with me about that. However...”

She looked back at Coco before resuming, “...I have been thinking about my friend here. I wish to be able to see her every day and not have her shunned for befriending a changeling.” A small grin grew on Chrysalis’ lips. “And I think my friend is perfectly fine with me being who I am. Don’t you agree, princess? After all, she did display a healthy amount of emotions when she couldn’t deny me.” The earth pony shyly looked away as the attention of two leaders glanced at her vicinity. “So back on track. I have had a change of heart, despite my current feelings toward you. Maybe there is a future where I can move on from the past. And you… Well, perhaps you can grow to trust myself and the other changelings.”

Taking a deep breath, Celestia stood in thought, her eyes closed. Coco smiled at her friend, knowing the princess was going to do the right thing. “You know Chrysalis,” the alicorn responded. “I never trusted you or the other changelings.” As she opened her eyes, her brows furrowed angrily, pointing hard at Chrysalis. “And I don’t think I will anytime soon…”

The queen’s mouth slightly parted, shocked, yet not surprised. She shook her head with disappointment. “I expected this from you.”

“Are you now going to proceed to threaten me?” Celestia asked, her horn pointing sharp at Chrysalis.

“You are the one being hostile,” Chrysalis replied bluntly. “If you think I am the one with no emotions, then what would you say to the actions I just did before my friend here?”

“Just like a changeling should be: an act with no truth…” The words pounded in Coco’s mind as they bounced around in her brain.

Coco couldn’t hold her questionmare tongue still. “Why?” Her voice sounded so soft. So sad. “Why won’t you give Chrysalis a chance?”

“Because they are deceivers.” Celestria’s words bit even harder. Even Chrysalis was showing signs of sadness mixed with anger. “They are manipulators. Have you forgotten what was conceived one year ago? Your ‘friend’ wore the face of Princess Cadence. And for what?! To feed her hive and steal other ponies’ happiness.”

“There is more to my actions, Celestia,” Chrysalis interjected, not wanting her friend to say too much. “I did it because I hate you. Because I have no choice but to regurgitate my words, I will say it again: you took something from me. You killed something of mine. So I took action and wanted to take something from you.”

Why are you being so vague Chrysalis? Tell her the truth. That it was your daughter that perished so many winters ago. Coco was nearing her breaking point. She wanted to speak, but needed to be silent and obey her order.

Now filled with the insightful information fed to her, Princess Celestia straightened herself, digesting everything she heard. “I killed something? As in… somepony?”

A wicked grin widened at Chrysalis’ lips. “Correct. Well, somechangeling is more appropriate for my liking, but close enough.” Coco was a little late on reacting to the queen’s words, almost forgetting she needed to play dumb. But she quickly corrected herself and took a few steps back, gasping at the the queen’s accusation. “Now, can you guess who?”

“Did… did you have several changelings perish when I denied you love?” Guilt clung to the princess’ face, unable to be rid of it.

“Only one. One who I adored.” Chrysalis let out a sigh, her daughter’s memory starting to plague her.

“Who was it?” Coco asked, this time knowing the answer to her question.

But the changeling shook her head. “I wish for Princess Celestia to remember.”

The look of guilt was short-lived, however, and Celestia let out a chuckle. “Coco, I don’t believe a single word Chrysalis is speaking of.”

Coco couldn’t believe what she heard. “E-excuse me…?” She looked to her friend and saw the queen stare at Celestia with an angry glare.

“You say she is your friend. Yet she is saying all of these things, these stories to me, and is expecting you to believe them!” The princess shook her head. “Forgive me, but you are stubborn to believe a single word from her.”

“No!” Coco stamped her hoof down, not taking the insult, nor caring about Celestia being a princess. “You know, I have been pretending to not know a single thing about Chrysalis. But now, I want to shed some truth now.”

“Coco, stop!” Fear ran down the queen’s spine. She wanted to shut her friend’s mouth, but was not fast enough. And was far too late.

“I have been at the hive. I have seen the changelings. The children. Yes, they are different, but I was never hurt by any of them, nor was I controlled by them like a lifeless puppet.” The mare had to pause and look at her friend. Chrysalis looked more afraid than disappointed, which confused Coco. But she still pressed on with adrenalyn running fast in her blood. “Changelings are just like us, Princess Celestia. The only difference is that ponies fear changelings, and changelings hate ponies because they are never given the chance. But I have given them that chance. And I wish for you to give them that chance as well.”

Coco swallowed hard, now finished with her statement. Her friend looked down at her, wearing a face that didn’t agree with her actions. But Coco needed to speak her mind. No more lies. Only truth.

Celestia stood still, her expression blank. “I understand now, Coco,” she muttered.

“Y-you do?!” the earth pony beamed. Chrysalis, however, did not look in anyway happy.

“Yes. You praised the changelings with pride. I don’t know anypony who would willingly stand up for them.” Slowly, Princess Celestia lowered her head. And pointed her horn at Coco Pommel. It lit with a bright light as beams of white shined from the tip. The wielder of such power started to shake. “Are you a changeling just pretending to be a pony?”

A cold shiver of fear darted down Coco’s spine as the princess stared her down with a bitter stare. Coco scrambled for the door, but ended up tripping over the skirt of her dress. Throwing her arms over her head, the mare begged “P-please, d-don’t hurt me!”

The steps of Chrysalis boomed as she stepped in front of the earth pony. “You DARE THREATEN MY FRIEND?!” Celestia’s horn flashed a bright light, causing Coco and Chrysalis to wince. The brightness was not strong enough to blind and their vision was collected quickly.

Every window shattered as pegusi broke their way in. Coco screamed, cradling her head from the glass that scattered about. The guards stood in front of their princess, spears at the ready. Taking a peek at the situation, Coco opened her eyes to see a large black body guarding her as several stallions glared with intimidating stares. And she saw Platinum among them. What is he doing here?! Coco noticed how he was not focusing his attention onto Chrysalis; Platinum was looking at her with a nervous expression.

“Those two are changelings!” Celestia proclaimed to her guards. Platinum flinched at the words, not wanting to believe the accusation that Coco was like Chrysalis.

“How dare you accuse my friend as such!” Chrysalis lit up her horn in a green aura to defend Coco and herself if needed. “Where is your proof?”

“By the sheer fact that ‘Coco’ is supporting you. She just confessed that she voluntarily chose to work for you, knowing her employer was a changeling.” Platinum’s eyes grew wide, his pupils thinning in shock.

Unable to control his tongue, he spoke to Coco, “You knew you have been working with changelings this whole time?!” The mare slowly nodded, almost ashamed of her deed. Chrysalis stared him down, her pupils as thin as his. This is exactly why I didn’t want you to speak, Coco. Now you have fallen into a hole. And others will hate you for siding with us.

“So, if you are here with her,” Platinum continued, “then… no…” He stared at the ground, not wanting his mind to believe what he was thinking. “Is- is Stitch-!?” The look on Coco’s face told the truth for him.

Speaking to her guards, Celestia asked, “Let me ask you, my fine soldiers, this question: Would you ever consider a changeling, a creature that feeds off of love, a companion?”

“Never!”

“They are vermin!”

“Black creatures with black hearts!”

All the stallions but Platinum stood without making a remark. All he did was glance between Coco and Chrysalis with no malice in his eyes.

“You are all ignorant, too stubborn to look behind the black skin we wear!” The queen’s horn burned hot with green flames. “And you believe my beloved friend is a CHANGELING?!” Instead of using her flaming rage against Celestia, Chrysalis snuffed her fire out, no longer surging power through the horn. “You want to find out of somepony is actually a changeling? Feed them solid foods, or anything that may have flavor, like juices, sugar, and all of the sorts. It will cause them great internal pain.”

“How do we know if you are telling-”

“Must you shut down everything I say? I just exploited a huge weakness about us changelings...” The changeling shook her head, irritated with Celestia’s resistance. “Believe me for once. Why else must I and my kin feed off of love? Because it is the only way for us to live. Otherwise, I would not be having an issue with you.”

One guard looked back at his princess. “What should we do? Do you believe her words?” To Celestia, it made sense that solid foods are not applicable for a changeling diet. However, she was worried her accusation against Coco was false and be made a fool.

“You, Luna’s guardspony.” The princess spoke to Platinum with authority.

He took a few steps forward before turning around to face the alicorn. “Y-yes Princess Celestia?”

“Who is Stitch?” Her eyes stared through him, like light through glass.

“A friend associated with Coco. And she may be a changeling because Stitch has worked with Coco before.” Platinum looked to the queen who looked at him with no anger in her eyes. “She is… also my friend…” Chrysalis’ brows rose, surprised with his words.

“Then I have a task for you. We need to do a test.”

The Fateful Event: Different

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Ch. 54

Platinum’s wings peacefully carried him through the sky as the wind held a gentle and cool breeze. However, in the batpony’s mind, the stallion was far from being calm as the clear night sky.

“What kind of task Princess?”

“Feed your ‘friend’ some solid food and tell me how she reacts. I want to test Chrysalis’ claims. If this ‘Stitch’ reacts in pain, then we can see if Coco is a changeling or not.”

“But- I- don’t want to-”

“Are you going to defy me? Or are you a changeling as well?”

Platinum swallowed as he remembered how Princess Celestia pointed her large horn at him as he almost spoke against her. Never in his life has he seen the princess be so hostile. Perhaps Celestia was feeling under pressure because of how there may be other changelings ahoof in her home once more.

But that wasn’t what was making Platinum feel worse about the situation. It was what he had to do: he needed to find out if Stitch was a changeling… by hurting her… on purpose. Before he left his princess, along with Chrysalis and Coco, Platinum noticed the queen’s expression. She was frowning. And so was he.

Emotions of frustration and sadness jostled Platinum’s heart as he approached the cedar tree and saw Stitch Snitch beside his sister. Why? Why did you lie to me? Why did you have to be a changeling? Are you really my friend? Was that kiss I gave you… only what you wanted you can feed yourself? But he was now nearing the two mares and had to mask his emotions. Stitch was the first to catch his eye as he swooped down, landing on the grass with a nice soft touch.

“Is everything okay?!” Stitch briskly broke away from Velvet and went to Platinum’s side. “What happened?!” Platinum glanced over to his sibling as she was giving him the same look Stitch was; worry and concern. To his surprise, he didn’t see any tears rolling down Stitch’s cheeks. Oh, how he knew he would see the salty stream once more.

“It was a false alarm.”

Velvet let out a loud sigh in relief. “Thank Celestia! Heh, that would have been a catastrophe!” She nudged Stitch’s side and smirked at her. “Could you imagine changelings here tonight? No. Thank. You.”

“Yeah.” Stitch half smiled, a big sign to Platinum she was hiding something. Normally, most ponies would have reacted a bit more than just a simple “yeah.” Stitch caught him staring at her and she felt something was not right with him. “I mean…” she spoke, not moving her eye off of his, “...who would want a changeling around?” Platinum flinched. Upon noticing this, Stitch continued, her words even more sharp against the shapeshifters. “They are ugly creatures who just betray other ponies’ trust, just to feed their nasty queen. In other words, they are different from us and should not be trusted.”

Different. The word rang in Platinum’s mind like a loud church bell. He could tell Stitch was reading him, pressing all of the right buttons. Her words made his heart cramp with hurt. Different. Platinum remembered how different he was from other ponies and how they treat him and his sister… differently.

Different.

“No kidding,” Velvet agreed, snorting hot air from her nostrils. “They deserve to suffer-”

“H-hey sister, why don’t you get Stitch and I something to eat. Like a slice of cake? I think she needs something to take her mind off of this whole changeling ordeal.” The moment the words left his mouth, Platinum could tell Stitch was catching onto him as her brows creased slightly.

“I would love that actually,” Stitch beamed. “Besides, I- I would like to be alone with your brother, if you know what I mean.” A shy grin turned toward Platinum as Stitch gave him an innocent look that the two both knew was a lie.

“Oh! I get it!” Velvet swayed herself left and right, eager to leave the two potential lovers along. “I will get some cake for you two. But it might take a while for me to get it.” Saying no more, aside from winking at her brother, Velvet went into the ballroom with a quick step in her hooves.

With Velvet out of the way, Platinum and Stitch removed their false expressions. And knew what was coming next.

“So who are you?” Platinum asked, cutting right to the chase. He tried to act tough, but his voice said otherwise. Platinum did not want to go through with hurting Stitch. Even if she was a changeling.

Stitch, too, tried to not seem nervous but began to shiver. “Before I answer that, I want to ask if Chrysalis is okay. Is she?”

A cold shiver ran down Platinum’s spine. So she is a changeling… He didn’t have to go through with feeding Stitch a simple slice of cake to get her to show her true form. “She is. But they are waiting.”

“They?” Stitch gasped. “Wait, is Coco with her as well?” Platinum slowly nodded. “Is she okay?! W-what’s going on?! Are-!” The tears that saddened him as they began to flow. And this time, Platinum knew they were tears of sadness. “You probably think I don’t care, do you…?”

His lips parted, but no words came out from the cracks of his mouth. Platinum stood frozen, not sure what to do or say to the lovely changeling. Lovely changeling. Something he never thought could ever be in the same sentence.

Stitch looked away, her tears pounding her against the grass they stood in. Platinum watched the small droplets descend as the plant feeds itself from the changeling’s depressed liquid. “I don’t blame you… I mean, we are different after all-”

“Just- stop Stitch!” Platinum choked over his words. Different. Oh, how he was beginning to abhor that dreadful word. The word that labels everything into categories. “You know I am different, too.”

“But unlike you and your sister, I am not hated by the rest of Equestria. Others take a look at you and they are slightly intimidated by your strong stature.” Don’t compliment me. “If your sister were to see me, I bet she would alert the guards. She would turn against me. All because I am different.”

Different.

Platinum flashed his teeth, clenching them, and was frustrated with this entire ordeal. “I do hope you meant that despite me being different…” The word echoed loud in the garden. “...you accepted me for who I am, not what I am.”

“So you still doubt me?”

“I don’t want to!” he shouted. Stitch flinched, not sure to be angry or saddened by the outburst.

Knowing there was another now lingering in the garden, Stitch and Platinum looked to see Velvet with a look of shock on her face. She held two slices of chocolate cake on a plate. “W-what’s with all the yelling?”

Stitch leered at Platinum, tears running even faster down her face. “Why don’t you tell her?!” He only stared at her with a frown. She then shook her head, knowing he won’t muster up the strength to speak the truth. “You know what? I will show her what is wrong. What is wrong with me. Because I am different!”

Quickly tossing off her veil, Stitch showed her true form; her changeling appearance. Velvet dropped the plate she held, as her jaw fell faster than the two slices of cake. “Stitch-”

“I’m sorry, but I am not who you think I am.” Stitch walked over to the sweets that rested on the ground. Velvet took a few steps back, in disbelief of what had just happened. She looked to her brother to see if he would retaliate against the changeling. But he only looked at Stitch with uncertainty, not sure what to make of the situation. “All I am is just a liar.” Slowly, the changeling picked up the tasty snack most ponies would drool over. However, to her, it was only poison. “I wish I could eat like you two and not have to be a traitor.” She looked at Platinum, her vision blurred through the tears she continued to shed. “So I will show you what happens when changelings try to be like you.”

Cramming the entire slice into her mouth, Stitch gagged, her body retaliating against the solid food. The sight was painful for Platinum to watch. She swallowed the thing whole, then stood still for a few moments.

A pang shot through Stitch’s unused stomach and she kneeled to the ground, then fell over. Her body began to writhe in protest, refusing to accept what was ingested. Coming to her aid, Velvet came beside Stitch. But she was greeted with a mean stare. “I thought you wanted to see changelings suffer! You said it yourself! So watch me hurt!” Velvet was punched hard in the heart as the changeling made her statement, unable to speak. All Velvet could do was watch her friend twitch on the ground in pain.

The pangs were too much and her body could no longer hold in the nasty solid food. Stitch made a horrible gagging sound before the food literally ejected itself from her body. She spat it at the tree before gasping for air.

“Stitch I-” Platinum muttered, looking to his sister for any help. “Are you… okay?

With her breath finally regained, she glanced at the batpony. “Will you believe me if I told you I wasn’t?” Stitch shivered, her eyes clenched shut as the tears shined in the moonlight. “It’s okay if you hate me…”

“N-no! No no no no!” Velvet was also beginning to sob. “I- I don’t hate you. It was just… sudden that you showed me who you are. I-if you are not as evil as others say changelings are, then-”

“‘Not as evil?’ Do you even realize what you just said to me?” Stitch’s voice cracked as her bug-eyed spheres stared through Velvet. Stitch looked elsewhere, no longer feeling wanted. “Just- BOTH OF YOU! FORGET ABOUT ME!” Her wings buzzed loudly, like an angry wasp, as she carried herself away and into the night sky.

The Fateful Event: Hater of Lies

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The night has never been so quiet as Platinum glided through the sky along with her sister. Even her sobbing was soft as they flew toward where Celestia was. In her hooves, Velvet held a plate of red-velvet cake. It was for Coco.

As they came to the shattered window, both entered carefully, not wanting to get sliced by the sharp glass. Platinum noticed how nopony moved from their original spot since he left. Chrysalis still stood in front of Coco, and Celestia’s guardsponies remained in their organized row.

“Report!” Celestia spoke with authority. She noticed Velvet and raised a brow. “I didn’t ask you to bring another pony…”

“Forgive me, but my sister wanted to see the queen.” Velvet got a good look at Queen Chrysalis, feeling intimidated by her presence, knowing she and Platinum hurt one of her kin.

“This isn’t some innocent show-and-tell…” the princess grumbled as she glared at Platinum. “If you have not noticed, there is an elephant in the room! And I wish to not let the entire land of Equestria aware of its presence. Otherwise, there will be pandamonium!” Both Platinum and Velvet shivered as they received their scolding from their princess. “Now Platinum, report. Tell me what happened. Did you feed your ‘friend’ a solid food?”

He glanced at Chrysalis and gave her a sad smile, his ears falling back. The memory of Stitch writhing on the ground in agony was branded in his brain. “Yes. And she… was in pain when she ate the cake. It was hard to watch.”

Platinum heard Coco gasp and had a hard time prying his eyes off of her. His sister began to lament bitterly as she cried into the arm that held the plate and cake. Celestia walked over to Velvet and placed a hoof on her shoulder. “Are you upset that you found out your so called friend was a changeling?” Celestia’s words were comfortable, but they stung at the batpony’s heart. Velvet kept her thoughts to herself and remained silent. She wouldn’t want anypony knowing that she still cared about Stitch.

Celestia turned her gaze at Chrysalis with a hard stare. “It is a shame that your kind brings nothing but pain…”

“And it is a shame that you don’t care for another’s feelings when they are different from you,” Coco blurted out loud, stamping her hoof down with frustration. Everypony flinched at the mare’s words. Even Chrysalis hushed her friend with a worried expression mixed with an angry growl.

Levitating the cake from Velvet’s plate, Princess Celestia brought the treat over to Coco and crammed it into the mare’s mouth. “You need to not speak against the princess. That being me.” Coco gagged, trying to force the food down her throat. Thankfully, only one-third of the cake made its way into Coco’s mouth; the rest of it fell to the floor with a splat.

Chrysalis noticed the guards glancing at each other, seeing how they were taken aback by their princess’ harsh act. The changeling needed to keep her emotions in check, hiding the rage she was feeling as she watched her friend being force fed.

After swallowing the cake, Coco coughed a little as a few flakes of bread was still caught in her throat. Many eyes watched her with intense stares. Even Platinum and Velvet watched Coco, hoping to not see her writhe in pain as Stitch did.

A minute passed. Then another. Nothing happened.

“How long did it take for your ‘friend’ to be in pain and how long did it last?” Celestia asked, looking down at Platinum.

“It was almost instant when she fell to the ground.” Platinum saw Chrysalis wince and look away. He could tell she was not pleased to hear Stitch was the one being used as a test subject. “And then she spat the cake out moments later…” Coco whispered something into Chrysalis’ ear, but the queen brushed her off.

Celestia let out a sigh, her lips sinking to a frown. “So Coco, I guess I was wrong for accusing you of being a changeling… But I do not understand why you side with the changelings still.”

Coco cleared her throat as flem began to form in her throat. “Because there is a reason, a strong one at that, why Chrysalis hates you. And despite her offer to extend her friendship to you, you downright refused it. It was not hard for me to accept it, and neither should it be difficult for you as well. Rarity told me about Twilight and her role as the Princess of Friendship. What would Twilight say about all of this?”

Several guards muttered soft words among themselves, too quiet for Coco to hear. Celestia glanced around to see her allies speaking to each other and no longer felt their need for being there. Nor did she want them changing their perspective on changelings. “I wish for everypony to leave. That is, except for Coco and the queen.”

Chrysalis’ ears twitched upon hearing the princess’ statement, speaking formally about her. The pegasus guardsponies easily made their leave, exiting out the broken window. Platinum and Velvet stared at their friend with worry. But despite them wanting to stay, the princess’ word was final. So they left without another word.

“So, once again you are alone with me and my friend.” Chrysalis straightened herself, no longer feeling the need to be too protective of Coco Pommel. “Why did you call off the guards?” Coco rounded herself from Chrysalis and stood by her side.

“Why?” Princess Celestia shook her head and looked to Coco. “I don’t want your friend’s words poisoning my guard’s minds.” Both leaders lowered their heads, horns at the ready. “How dare you Coco… How dare you try and guilt trip me and use my precious student as an example! This is not about friendship! This about a pair of liars before me. And I hate liars...”

“You hate liars,” Chrysalis spoke, her expression hot with anger. “And yet, you lie about the past. You lie about my story, pretending it was nothing more than a legend. A myth. And you are unaware of who you killed…”

To Coco’s and Chrysalis’ surprise, Celestia held a wicked grin. Then she began to laugh. “You know what! You are right! I do know the legend you speak of. About how you came to me, asking for food.”

“So you do remember my daughter?” the queen spoke softly. “Do you understand what it was like to watch her starve before my eyes, after you denied us food? Do you know what it is like to watch the one you love the most perish?” Coco grabbed her friend’s hoof, knowing Chrysalis was feeling upset at the memory.

“Of course I do. I know what it is like to watch a beloved be claimed by death.” Celestia glanced at a painting of Star Swirl the Bearded, her expression holding a faint frown. But it was short lived, and was replaced with a mean sneer. “And I am glad she perished.”

Rage flooded through Chrysalis’ blood, as her horn began to blaze with hot green flames. “You WITCH!” Celestia retaliated with the act and conjured up blinding light.

“You want to know why I am glad she was lost!?” the princess yelled. “She threatened me! She told me that you and your hive will attack if there is no exchange of love! So I gave her nothing! And now here you are, threatening me! Unable to move on!”

Both leaders wielded intense power. One light-green fire, the other white light. Coco could feel the heat between them, both the tension and the energy from their awesome might. And she has had enough of the strife.

“STOP!” Coco screamed. She ran in between Chrysalis and Celestia as a boarder. “If you both want to start a pointless squabble that causes more harm than good, then fine!” The pony stared at the queen with sadness in her eyes. “But you will have to get through me first. For I stand in the middle on this.”

Slowly, both princess and queen dismissed their magic and stared at the pony, in thought of Coco’s words. “I think your time here is over Coco Pommel. Please leave with your friend. And don’t cause any trouble, now or ever.”

“Of course Princess Celestia.” The pony nodded with a polite bow, despite not taking a liking to the alicorn’s current actions. Coco tugged at Chrysalis’ arm, but the changeling yanked it away.

“Will you be heckling my friend from now on?” she hissed.

“You remember using Discord to try and make me feel guilty earlier this evening? Just like him, I will have Coco roam free with no charge against her. If she does do any harm, then I will be swift to stop her.” Chrysalis grumbled in her throat, but Coco pulled on her arm once more. This time, the queen moved and began to follow the mare.

The pony and changeling left the princess alone in Star Swirl’s office. She stared at the ground, the glass shining like innocent diamonds. Celestia turned her eyes toward the picture of the famous wizard. His pose was strong despite his age in the portret. Suddenly, the memories of the past flooded the alicorn’s mind and she began to lament.

She began to remember her times with Star Swirl, from the time she became his apprentice, to the day he- Celestia tried to remember Chrysalis’ daughter’s face, but her memories were blank of the changeling.

“Why…? Why did it all have to happen at once…? My sister, my old friend… They both lied to me in the past. That’s why I hate liars.” Unfortunately, her words fell on deaf ears. There was nopony to hear her. And nopony to help comfort her. “I didn’t mean to kill your child… I was scared by her words…” Celestia let out a sigh, sniffing hard through her nostrils, no longer wanting to cry any longer.

She raised her head and flashed a bright light from her horn. Within seconds, Celestia’s guards once again flooded into the room. Platinum and Velvet remained outside, peering into the room as they flapped their wings.

“Princess, is everything okay?” one stallion asked.

“Where did the other two go?” another spoke.

Before another question was asked, Celestia raised her hoof to stop anymore potential words. “They are leaving.” She wiped at her eyes before continuing. “I want everything you all have witnessed to keep confidential. We wouldn’t want anypony panicking because of a changeling sighting.” Celestia looked to the window and saw the two batponies looking at her. “That includes you both as well.”

Many Dreams

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“Behold, a creature you should all fear!” Princess Celestia stood from afar as she watched an earth pony proclaimed to the citizens of Canterlot as he stood on a small crate. Two other ponies covered his three and nine like guards. In front of the earth pony was a box like shape, covered by a brown cloth.

“Shall I stop this stallion from speaking?” a guard spoke to Celestia as he stood beside her.

“No, I want to see this creature.” Celestia noticed the announcer caught her eye, and then proceeded to remove the cloth. To her surprise and horror, the princess saw a small black body, shivering in a cage in the winter cold. Its eyes was like an insect and had holes in its legs. The child had long limbs, but looked very weak.

“Behold, a changeling!” In an instant, the changeling transformed into a filly unicorn. The ponies watching gasped in shock at the sudden change of appearance. “What I have here is a creature that not only lies on outward appearances, but also feeds off of love.”

The stallion stepped off his small literal soapbox and showed the ponies before him a bouquet of flowers. “A lovely array of roses. Red, white, and pink.” He tossed them onto the ground and grumbled, “Feed.”

Scrambling onto its feet, the changeling shot a beam of green energy at the bundle of roses. Slowly, the flowers began to wilt and die.

“Horrible!”

“Monsters!”

“Tell us more about these creatures!”

A flurry of words rang out as Celestia watched the small thing shiver in her cage. The changeling looked into the princess’ eyes with sadness. Celestia took one step forward to save the child, when a voice behind her spoke.

“Why have you come to see me sister? I need my rest.” Luna’s voice boomed. Celestia blinked and the entire scene was different. She now stood in her sister’s domain, by the door. Luna’s room was dark, the lighting very feint.

The dark-blue alicorn sat on her bed, facing away from Celestia. Turning to face Luna, Celestia began to walk toward her sister, knowing she is troubled. “You have been acting strange lately and have avoided coming out when the sun is up.”

“I prefer the darkness, dear sister. It welcomes those who wish to be covered by its black veil.”

Now at Luna’s bedside, Celestia reached out a hoof to touch her sibling’s shoulder. But a glare from Luna made the white alicorn take a few steps back. “Keep away from me sister! I am fine! I just want to be alone.”

A cough echoed in the darkness. And another. Then an concession of coughing and wheezing followed. Light flooded the room as Luna and her dwelling vanished in a wisp.

Celestia now stood in the Canterlot infirmary, staring down at Star Swirl the Bearded. His eyes were heavy but he still smiled despite his sickness. A cold shiver ran down Celestia’s spine as she briskly walked over to him. The nurses quickly moved out of the way, lest they wanted to be run down by the panicking princess.

“Star Swirl,” Celestia choked over her words. “Just hang in there.”

The old wizard chuckled before painfully coughing once more. “Oh I have done my hanging about for years now my friend. I do believe it is my time to rest. Yes…” Star Swirl blinked his old eyes slowly and looked at Celestia with a smile. “Don't be sad my friend. I will be fine. Just… watch. . . your sister. . . for me . . .” He then let out a soft sigh, his grin ever so wide. But his eyes glossed up and his body grew limp. He was gone.

Celestia gave Star Swirl a small shake, trying to wake him from his “rest.” The nurses watched helplessly as the princess started to panic. “Star Swirl. Star Swirl! Please! I thought you said you will be fine! You lied to me!” In a flurry of saddened rage, she scolded the infirmary staff. “Why have you failed keeping him well?! Aren't you supposed to be the the best caretakers? Or have you lied to me as well?”

“Princess please,” the head nurse muttered, her voice and knees shaking, “we did what we could. But he was old and-”

“I am old as well, yet you don't see me dying!” Nopony dared to speak against Celestia as she stared the nurses down. They knew she was in the wrong, but resisted the urge to speak out. “Useless!” Celestia stormed out of the infirmary and opened the door. The moment she stepped through, she was at her throne room.

Laughter echoed in the night as the Elements of Harmony glittered in the moonlight. The six emblems rested on their own small holders. Running over to the six gems, she levitated them from their stands, then looked upwards. Through a hole in the sealing, Celestia saw Nightmare Moon flapping her dark wings as she continued to laugh loudly and wickedly.

“I am sorry sister, but you leave me no choice!” Celestia bellowed as the Elements of Harmony spun around her body. Her body darted up into the night sky, squaring off with the former shell of her sister. The two shot a blast of energy from their horns in an attempt to beat the other.

With the Elements of Harmony at her disposal, Celestia overpowered her sister and blasted her to the moon, banishing the evil away from Equestria.

Celestia slowly descended down into her throne room, now exhausted by the power she had expelled. No longer holding onto the six powerful stones, they fell to the ground, ringing each time they bounced off the tile.

Her heart grieved the loss of both Star Swirl, and the now banishment of her treacherous sister. The cold of sadness and heat of anger swirled around inside Celestia. “YYYEEEEAAAGGGHHHAAAHAAAHAAAA!” Her lamenting cry tore Celestia’s throat, the noise echoing in the hollow hall. She knelt down to sob. Alone. In the veil of darkness.

“Princess?” a small voice squeaked. Celestia gasped, now noticing she was sitting on her throne, staring down at Chrysalis and her daughter. The princess remembered those eyes. They were from the changeling that was trapped in the cage that same winter.

“Princess, please,” the child spoke again, her voice quivering. “You must give us love. Otherwise, we may have to attack and take what we need.”

As Chrysalis spoke to the filly, Celestia leered down at the two changelings. “You dare come into my home and threaten me? Do you know what I have recently endured?!” Celestia’s voice echoed in the halls as the child remained mute at the sudden outburst; Chrysalis pulled her daughter close to her body. “Go back to the hole your crawled out of you insect.”

“You WITCH!”

The atmosphere morphed into Star Swirl’s office as Celestia saw Chrysalis raise her horn. The princess lowered her own, ready to blast the changeling, along with her lying friend away.

“Sister!” Both Coco and Chrysalis images faded away as the voice echoed through the air. Celestia turned her head to the window, and saw that it was broken still. The alicorn saw her sister fly down to her and into the room. Luna’s hooves cracked the shards of glass as she approached Celestia.

Celestia let out a sigh, glad to realize she was dreaming. “I never thought I would be getting a visit from my sister as I dreamed.”

Luna did not smile at her sister’s words and shook her head. “You were not just dreaming Celestia, you were having nightmares about many things. And you know this as well as I do: dreams and nightmares are reflections of one's thoughts.”

Celestia stepped back, realizing her sister was peering into her mind. “It's…” She looked away from Luna. “I am fine.”

“Didn't I tell you that before?” Luna asked with her brow raised. “Didn't Star Swirl the Bearded say nearly the same thing?” Celestia had no words as Luna had her hanging on a lie she dreaded. “You say you are fine, yet your thoughts haunt you.” Luna placed a hoof on Celestia’s shoulder, and gave a light smile. “Tell me what is wrong sister. I remember what happened to me when I didn't tell you what was bothering me. Don't bottle it up. Or you may do something you might regret.”

Coco and Chrysalis poofed into existence, startling the two sisters. What surprised Celestia even more was how she had now suddenly lost control of herself. She looked to the ground and saw a red velvet cake resting on a small plate. Her horn glew with light and picked up the cake, shooting it into Coco’s mouth.

“Sister, what are you doing?!” Luna barked.

Celestia wanted to speak to her sister, but her tongue and eyes went rogue and darted at Chrysalis. “I am glad your daughter perished!”

No longer under this mysterious spell, Celestia collapsed to the ground and the mirages vanished. Angered and depressed, the alicorn began to sob hot tears. Thankfully, her sister was quick to be by her side.

“Celestia.” Luna's words were soft, and filled with concern. “What happened? Why were you dreaming of me and Star Swirl the Bearded? And why was Chrysalis in your dream as well?”

Celestia had to stabilize her breathing before she could speak again. “I- I was b-betrayed today. Lied to.”

Luna had to think for a moment, collecting the best words she can muster. “It was Chrysalis and that pony I saw just now, yes?” Her sister slowly nodded before sniffing in nasty mucus running out of her nostrils. “What did they do to betray you?”

Celestia told Luna about how she met Coco and “Your Majesty.” How she was suspicious of “Your Majesty,” but didn't want to believe it could have been Chrysalis. Celestia did not want to admit it, but the time she had spent with the changeling was enjoyable. And when Chrysalis showed herself, the alicorn hated how she was used to have her trust gained and then shattered, like the very windows of Star Swirl’s office. Celestia then explained how Coco pretended to not know about Chrysalis’ alius before unveiling that the pony knew more than she looked. Celestia confessed to Luna that she went to far with her words and actions. But she wanted her words to hurt just as she felt betrayed once more. The only thing she did not regret doing was the test on the Stitch character Platinum spoke about. It was necessary to do in order to find out if Coco was a changeling or not.

“I see…” Luna’s eyes grew wide with fury. “Shall I seek out the blasted queen and torment her dreams?!”

“No sister...” Celestia held up a hoof. “Besides, there is more to what had happened.”

Luna’s eyes calmed, but her brows were still furrowed. “Go on…”

“Chrysalis extended her friendship to me after telling me she still hates me.” Celestia watched Luna’s mouth part slightly in shock.

“That is interesting. And what was Chrysalis’ reason?”

“Coco Pommel was her reason.” Celestia looked to where the two stood for most of the time, pretending they were there. “She said that Coco made her want to ‘move on from the past.’ It is hard to believe somepony when they say they hate you, but want to extend their friendship to you.”

“I can agree, sister. But there are two things I do not understand.” Celestia looked to her sister, curious about Luna’s words. “Why was Star Swirl the Bearded and I dreamt up? And what of that changeling child? Yes I did see everything, but I do not understand why you had so much going on in your mind.”

Celestia sighed, staring into her sister’s eyes. “Let's start with the first question; you and Star Swirl.”

“Alright.” Luna looked to the picture of the famous wizard propped up on the wall. “He was such a good friend to you, wasn’t he?”

“More, actually…” Celestia’s cheeks flushed, the pink brightly standing out. “Though I never had the strength to tell him- that…” Luna gasped, opening her mouth to speak, but Celestia held a hoof up to stop her sister from speaking. “The part of the dream you saw was the day he- passed away.” Luna hummed a sad sigh as she saw Celestia hang her head. “He said he was fine. But he lied to me.” The white alicorn looked at her sister with glossy eyes. “Just as you did. But the difference between you and him was your betrayal against me.”

Luna saw in the faint reflection of Star Swirl’s mirror her own reflection. But was greeted with the eyes of Nightmare Moon. The princess looked herself over to see she was the evil mistress who was banished to the moon many years ago.

“Sister-” Luna stopped her sentence short, noticing how her voice was the old, evil persona she once was. Celestia couldn't bare the sight and looked away from the evil being.

“Your betrayal changed me, dear sister.” Celestia tried me make her words less harsh toward Luna, but they stung at the dark-blue mare’s ears. “I feared that another I trusted would turn their back on me.”

“And that is why you acted so bitter toward Chrysalis and Coco.” Luna saw her reflection change back to her normal self.

“Yes. Because they were to betrayed my trust, I wanted to show them my pain.” Celestia frowned at her own words. “But I know that is not me. I am not cruel. Yet, my anger got the best of me. It wanted to control me. So I let it.”

“I know what it was like. To have that monster that we know as Hatred move us to his will.” Celestia creased her brow slightly as Luna addressed Hatred as a he. But that detail was not important. “You should have told the two of them your frustration about their betrayal, and how it hurt you. Even if she was a changeling…” Luna grumbled, bothered that her sister was lied to by the Queen of Changelings. “Speaking of changelings, why were you dreaming of that changeling child?”

“Do you remember the detail of how I told you about Chrysalis’ daughter, how she threatened me?” Luna nodded. Celestia frowned, now knowing the fate of the child. “Back before you were banished to the moon, nopony knew what changelings where. And they frightened everypony because of their abilities and what they consume. After your betrayal, and having the knowledge of changelings, I feared the creatures ever since. And when the child said she may have her kind attack Canterlot, my instinct told me to reject her request.”

“Of course, you told her to crawl back into a hole where she belonged…” Luna frowned, but didn’t shake her head in disapproval. She understood Celestia’s reasoning, even if Chrysalis’ child was lost that winter. “Do not feel guilty, Celestia. You did what you needed to do.” Luna knelt down to her sister, embraced Celestia for a moment, then stood up. “Now rest. And if Chrysalis tries to create any trouble, we will be prepared. We have stopped them once, and we can sure do it again.”

Celestia took in a deep breath, and closed her eyes. And when she opened them, the mare was now awake in her estate. She looked around her dark room, wondering what time it was. But her eyelids started to droop slowly, claiming her conscious. Before she fell back into slumber, she wondered, Who was that stallion who showed Canterlot Chrysalis’ daughter that winter? Before she could think any further, her mind drifted into a better place.

Proposal

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Coco and Chrysalis walked in silence down the halls of Canterlot Castle. Chrysalis lead the way with her unicorn facade as they turned this way and that, knowing where to go.

The pony was in thought, trying to understand why Celestia was so out of character. What made her so spiteful against Chrysalis? Did something happen between the princess and changelings that Coco knew nothing about? And what was going through Chrysalis’ head right now? She wanted to ask, but Coco was too afraid to even speak. So much has happened and so many questions have surfaced. But most of those curious thoughts will never be answered.

Upon entering the hallway, Coco and Chrysalis saw Fang mingling with some guards. The moment the two mares entered, he concluded what he was saying to the stallions and went over to his queen. Coming closer, Fang saw Chrysalis’ slightly disgruntled expression and Coco’s upset frown.

“How did it go?” he asked, hoping their faces were an illusion.

Chrysalis didn’t answer his question. “We need to go, now.” Her words were absolute and he didn't need to question anything. And Fang knew what his queen meant: it didn't go as they have hoped.

***

The wind quietly swished by as the carriage flew through the sky. Coco stared at Chrysalis with worry in her eyes. Ever since they left Star Swirl’s office, the changeling continued to wear that same angry expression. As for any questions Coco asked, it was ignored. Chrysalis refused to look at her friend.

Coco didn’t know how long they have been flying and wanted to keep her mind off of tonight’s events. She looked to the book to her left, along with the flowers that rested beside the novel. It would be better to delve into a world for a little while, than to have Coco be bombarded with questions that would have to wait.

***

A crowd cheered loudly as Forest Rain stood in front of the colosseum's gate. Light shined through the beams as he looked to see merponies of various colors sit at their marble crafted seats. At the right, he could see high above the commoners, Tail Fin, among with Pearl and other finely dressed merfolks, sitting on their decorated thrones. Not knowing what to expect, let alone not wanting to be killed by Urchin, all the pegasus could do was shiver in place.

“Welcome everypony!” Tail Fin exclaimed to the crowd, and they cheered loudly for their prince. All Forest Rain could do was huff out of his nostrils in disgust. “As you may know, the treacherous sister of mine will be battling against another poor soul. However…” The noise from the merponies grew quiet, wondering what their prince was going to say next. “...to make things more interesting, and worth your time, I have decided to allow Urchin’s opponent to have a bit of an upper hoof. I will be giving him a weapon to fight with.”

At once, the bloodthirsty crowd cheered even louder than before. Even Forest Rain was feeling slightly less stressed about the battle, but that wasn’t saying much. At least Pearl was not lying about him using something to defend himself. But was it the trident Urchin spoke of? And will it corrupt him as she said it will?

Forest Rain shook his head, even smirking. He knew that Urchin was nervous and thought she was just trying to scare him out of fighting. As if he would.

“And now!” The gate before Forest Rain lifted up, rumbling as it moved. “I present to you all the combatants!” A merpony pushed the pegasus forward, forcing him into the light. The sight of the colosseum was impressive to Forest Rain. A tall twenty foot wall made of marble held the stands above a pit that held sand at the floor. At the ceiling, a glass dome stood over the structure, with beams of gold holding the clear surface together.

Forest Rain couldn’t admire the structure for very long and had to pay attention to who was on the approach: Urchin. Because he lacked a fin, Forest Rain had to paddle through the water with his arms and legs. Others who watched him laughed and mocked, teasing the pegasus for not having a tail to swim quick enough. But they didn’t matter to him; Urchin was what he needed to care about.

In the sand, standing up tall, was a golden trident with gems that ran up the shaft. (Let’s just hope it is enchanted…) Quickly swimming of it, Forest Rain gripped tightly onto it. Now, he was hoping it wasn’t.

What felt like electricity shot through the pegasus’ arms as he yelled in pain. Forest Rain could feel the energy crawl under his skin. After what seemed like an eternity, Forest Rain could feel different as he held onto his weapon. He felt… angry.

Looking up to Tail Fin, the one who imprisoned him, the pegasus pushed off of the ground. And to his surprise, Forest Rain darted quickly at the prince. But his skull was smacked against a shield, just feet away from Tail Fin’s thrown. Pearl flinched at the sudden burst of energy, as did the others near her. But the prince shook his head with disapproval. “I didn’t say go…” Forest Rain rubbed his skull, but surprised he only felt a small sting. “Now go down there and face your opponent.” Feeling he had not much of a choice, Forest Rain slowly swam down to the sandy floor of the colosseum, gripping his weapon hard. Urchin had not yet transformed and stood still by her gate.

“I told you not to grab hold of that trident…” she spoke, shaking her head like her sibling. “And now you are going to suffer.” Urchin twitched and writhed as her body transformed into her hideous form. Gasps filled the crowd as the merfolk witnessed the transformation. Forest Rain tried to sense any fear he once felt before he entered. Instead, he was filled with wrath; an anger he had never known he possessed. Perhaps he was furious with Tail Fin, having him be used as entertainment. Or maybe he was angry with himself by coming to the blasted lake in the first place. If only he stayed away and not seen that merpony beneath the surface.

Regardless of his true reason for his anger, Forest Rain did not want to go down without a fight. Pointing his weapon at Urchin, now in her hideous form, he said, “Let’s put on a show!”

“Combatants! You may begin!” Tail Fin’s voice roared.

KUKUNCK!

Coco bounced off her seat and landed head first onto the floor. She was hoping the ride would go on a little longer so she could keep her mind occupied in another world. But the world Coco was in came literally crashing down to Equestria with a harsh thud.

As she rubbed her head, Coco hoped Chrysalis would help her up. However, the queen kept her eyes off of the mare. The door opened and Fang was standing in the green lantern’s light. Chrysalis quickly stood up and made her way out of the carriage. Fang had to get out of the way, or his queen would make him move in ways he did not want to. He saw Coco slowly gather herself onto all fours and was about to speak when-

“Fang, come here!” Chrysalis finally spoke, but not in the way Coco had wanted to hear. Unable to help the mare, he left her instead. Adjusting her dress to prevent herself from tripping, Coco finally stepped hoof out of the carriage. Several guards stood here and there, patrolling their home, paying no attention to her. She looked to her left to see Fang and Chrysalis speaking to one another. As she made her way toward them, the stallion took off in the night, not saying another word.

Chrysalis peered down at Coco as she came alongside her, not as angry looking from before. But she spoke no words to the pony and simply began walking toward the castle. Coco easily followed after.

***

The guards straightened up as they saw their queen walk down the hallway to her throne room. Coco remembered the first time she had entered this part of the castle. The memories of walking with Sea More to the very large doors before entering the queen’s domain seemed so long ago. At the time, Coco did not know what to expect when she entered Chrysalis throne room; and now, she doesn’t know what to expect either.

Chrysalis’ horn glew with power, and the massive doors swung open with ease. Coco could tell the changeling was livid, but she continued to remain silent and follow after her friend. Once inside the dark room, both were suddenly enclosed in darkness. But the darkness was short lived, and was replaced with green flames that burst to life from iron stands. Chrysalis buzzed her wings and flew over to her jagged throne before sitting down in her rightful chair.

Coco stood before the queen as she did so many days before. However, this time, she stood before her friend. A friend that held an anger she could never fathom. “Chrysalis…” Coco’s voice startled herself a bit as it echoed in the hollowed room. “Is everything alright?”

“I am not sure.” Coco wasn’t sure if she wanted to hear what the queen had to say. “The mission of gathering love was a success on my part, and I am sure Fang can agree the same. However, after Celestia found out about other changelings attending her little soiree, I am not so sure about the others. Especially Stitch, who was used as a pet for Celestia’s curiosity…” Chrysalis’ eyes flickered in the green flame’s light, looking hard down at Coco. The pony felt guilty for letting Stitch get involved and not knowing the full extent of what she went through. “Also… why in the WORLD did you go against my wishes?!”

The changeling’s exclaimed word bounced around in the room and in Coco’s head. “I just… couldn’t take the constant insults from Celestia against you.”

“I am a queen. You think I cannot take criticism on my own? I know for a fact that the rest of Equestria thinks of me and my kin as love snatchers. And we all know this. But other ponies and their bitterness towards us makes us stand united with our own. You should have let me stand on my own.” Chrysalis blinked, no longer holding her angry gaze, and was replaced with a sad expression. “And now, who knows what Celestia thinks of you now.”

Coco couldn’t reply to her friend’s statement. Chrysalis was right. Who knows what the princess who raises the sun considers Coco now. “But she told me to no longer cause trouble.”

“And you think her words have any credibility?” The queen stood from her throne, stomping over to the pony. “She told me to my FACE that she was glad my daughter perished. Little does she know how much more powerful the hive has grown after tonight.”

“W-what do you mean?” Coco was fearing Chrysalis was about to do the worst.

“I mean, with all of the love I have acclimated, another invasion is in store.” Coco felt a cold shiver run down her back, hoping what she heard was a voice in her head.

“N-no... Don’t do that…” The mare shook her head slowly.

“And why would I listen to you?” Chrysalis asked, standing over her friend. “You are just a simple tailor just trying to get by in life.”

Coco lurched her head up at Chrysalis, her eyes angry. “Why should you listen to me? Because I am your friend! Why would you want to cause senseless harm?”

The queen snorted out of her nose. “Such a typical questionmare question.” Chrysalis turned around to avoid seeing Coco’s frustrated gaze. “You wouldn’t understand my anger. In fact, you don’t understand my hatred, even after everything I had told you.” Turning her head back to her friend, both mares locked their eyes on each other. Coco wielded eyes of concern, her brows creased with a hint of anger, as Chrysalis did her best to hold a calm facade.

“You are wrong. I know your hatred. I have seen it. And I disapprove of it.” Coco stepped forward, standing behind her lovely dressed friend. “And I know of our friendship, which I will always approve. That is, unless you do something that would ruin it by attacking Canterlot.” Chrysalis took a deep breath before letting out a heavy sigh. “Do you care about our friendship?”

Coco stood still for an unknown amount of time as she waited to the changeling to speak. Finally, Chrysalis did, but not in the way Coco was hoping or expecting. “Go back to your estate. You are leaving first thing in the morning.”

“W-what…?”

“Leave!” Chrysalis ordered, turning herself around to yell at Coco. The pony did flinch, but did not wear a frightened expression. Coco frowned at Chrysalis before walking toward the large door. “Ask one of the guards to lead you to your room.” Her words were a lot more calm, but didn’t make her relax one bit as she saw Coco open the doors before closing them with a loud klunk.

Chrysalis walked over to her throne and sat in her chair. She slumped against the cushion, her dress now beginning to irritate her. Quickly, the queen stripped herself of the dress and tossed it to the ground. It did stick to her hooves as she removed her clothing, but didn’t cause her to struggle much. Finally finished and out of Coco’s creation, Chrysalis brought a hoof to her forehead, grumbling with frustration.

“That pony… I have grown too close to her…” A knock rang out in the empty room, which fueled Chrysalis’ already bothered nature even more. “Who goes there?!”

The hinges on the massive seal screeched as a voice spoke in, “My queen…” It was Scar Splash. “...the others have returned and each and every one have reported that the evening was a success.”

“At least something went right…” Chrysalis looked to the sealing, the green flames flickering in her eyes.

“What troubles you my queen? Might I enter?” Despite herself wanting to be alone, Scar Splash was a changeling she wanted to speak with.

“You may. Come.” At a moderate pace, Scar approached the throne, admiring his queen’s presence, but not her present attitude. It pained the changeling to see Chrysalis look so disgruntled. “Scar, how were you able to move on from your pony lover?”

Scar Splash stopped in his tracks, taken aback by the question, not expecting that to be the first thing Chrysalis would say. “I umm… told myself that she was better off without me. If I stayed around, others would have pestered and harmed my love even more.” He turned his head, curious by his queen. “Why do you ask?”

“Coco is leaving tomorrow. And… I am afraid that I will miss her dearly. She has accepted us changelings and knows my pain...” The queen frowned, her gaze turned toward a hot green flame.

“Good riddance I say…” Chrysalis stood from her seat of thorns, angered with Scar’s poor choice of words. Thinking on his hooves he asked, “My queen, do you understand why I dislike that pony so much? Look at how she is controlling you.”

Chrysalis glared down at the soldier, almost wanting to slam him into a wall for insulting Coco. “What do you mean?”

“Ever since you have allowed the pony to get too close to you, along with Fang and the others, she is making you forget your goal. Your mission! She is trying to shed this pathetic light that others may care about us. But that light is false and blinding.” Scar Splash pointed a hoof at his breast. “Even I am guilty of letting a pony get close to me, her words telling me that others should give us changelings a chance.” He bared his fangs that were as sharp as a dozen swords. “But as I showed myself to her friends, they shunned she and I. I know I still love her to this day. However, she is better off without me. Only she will receive mercy from the hive’s wrath. Besides, those who refused me… will pay.” Fang looked hard into his queen’s eyes. “Just as Celestia should suffer as she spat those horrible words to Beauty Fly however many years ago that was.”

Chrysalis clenched her jaw tightly, remembering how the hurtful princess was. “Funny how Coco wanted to have me talk to Celestia about my feelings toward her.” She chuckled, not surprised of the outcome. “To sum up what happened, Celestia wanted nothing to do with me, while making every chance she could to insult me. I should have seen the outcome from a mile away.”

“Do you understand what I mean by how Coco is controlling you?” Scar asked, taking a few steps toward his queen. “She made you reveal yourself to Celestia. If any of us told you to something like that, I am sure you would make sure that changeling would never speak again…” He shivered at the thought of his queen’s wrath as he has experienced this first hoof.

Chrysalis slumped her shoulders, now thinking about how Coco has caused as much harm as she has good. Coco has done the entire hive a great service by helping them obtain the love they now possessed. But the pony has also made Chrysalis cast her veil aside and try to negotiate with a pony that wanted nothing to do with changelings.

Do you care about our friendship? Coco’s question echoed in Chrysalis’ mind. She did care about her pony friend. But her hatred was hotter than the sun itself. Perhaps letting go herself was a good plan. After all, Chrysalis has been telling Fang to not get too close to Coco, or the goodbye will be too painful for the mare and stallion. And unfortunately, Chrysalis remembers their kiss. And is about to part their lips by force. “Then what will you have me do Scar? How will I be able to move on from Coco then?”

“I have been thinking about this, actually, waiting to propose the idea,” Scar Splash grinned. “In fact, if you go through with my plan, no changeling will be hurt in the process.”

Chrysalis raised a brow, curious with Scar’s choice of words. “You said ‘no changeling’ if I am not mistaken. What about Coco?”

“Just as I have left my love, your ‘friend’ will be the only one being hurt.”

“Explain…” Just as Scar Splash was about to elaborate on his proposal, another knock rang out.

***

Slumber could not find Coco Pommel as she tossed and turned all night. So many questions flooded her mind, wishing they would just run away elsewhere. But Coco’s curiosity kept plaguing her small mind, giving her very little sleep.

She pondered about Chrysalis, wondering if she was actually going to attack Canterlot. If she was, Coco may have no choice but to inform Celestia. And if Coco were to propose the attack to the princess, Celestia may give her an I told you so speech.

Another question that was bothering her was why Celestia let Coco go so easily. The hypothesis she was able to come up with was how Coco posed no threat to Equestria. Even though the pony knew the truth about Chrysalis and her past, she was finding hard to think anypony would believe her story if she told somepony else.

But the worst of the pestering thoughts was if she was going to see any of her friends again. Sea More. Stitch Snitch. Knight Cap. Silver Liner. Silky Magot. Bitter Tongue. The children.

Inferno Fang.

Coco clenched her pillow tightly, wishing he were nearby. When ever she found herself bothered with anything, he was always there with a warm embrace in more ways than one. Her nose pressed against the soft sack of feathers, remembering their kiss. What will become of their friendship now that changelings are still viewed as enemies?

The mare grunted in frustration, displeased with Celestia’s refusal to accept Chrysalis’ friendship. But Coco couldn’t blame the princess either. Chrysalis attacked Canterlot before, so maybe her anger was justified. Then again, when Celestia crammed the cake into Coco's mouth was perhaps the moment she went to far.

Coco stared up at the bed’s overloft, now understanding how cruel the world can be because of indifferences. And she felt like she could do nothing about it, now that she has exhausted her option of having Chrysalis speak to Celestia personally. Maybe the way Chrysalis went about it was the wrong way, and should have just informed the princess that she was coming peacefully. Why couldn’t that happen?

The unknown possibilities were beginning to frustrate Coco, wishing the gala ended on a fantastic note. The day was a great one, from the play, to the two friends she made, and even the kiss from Fang. But the end result was having no resolution to Chrysalis’ feud with Celestia, perhaps taking a few steps backwards for the chances for changelings and ponies living among each other.

Thankfully, a knock rang out from the darkness. The sun was not up just yet, but it didn’t matter to Coco. She needed at least something to keep her mind off her brainstorm of questions. Crawling out of bed and to the entrance of her room, Coco opened the door to see Fang.

“Hey,” the pony muttered, her voice slightly hoarse. Fang cracked a smile before lighting up the room with his magic. The brightness stabbed at Coco’s eyes, but they adjusted quickly. When they did adapt to her surrounding light, she noticed Fang was looking quite upset with something. “Is there anything bothering you?”

He chuckled, “No questions this early in the morning.” Coco smirked and gave him a light push. Fang looked to his left as he stood in the hallway. “I have brought some changelings to come and help you pack up.” Stepping into the room along with him, was Stitch Snitch, Silver Liner, Silky Magot, and Knight Cap.

Not conserned with having to gather her belongings, Coco walked over to Stitch and asked, “Are you okay? What happened with-”

“Please… you heard Fang,” Stitch muttered, “no questions this early.”

But I want to know if you are alright…

“She is,” Knight Cap spoke suddenly. The changeling’s normal slate-faced expression was not to be found, and instead was a frown. “Let’s just gather your belongings, okay?” Silver and Silky nodded, they too wearing the same expression as the others.

“But-” Coco stopped herself short, not wanting to bother her friends with another question. I hope nothing is wrong… Knight Cap briskly walked into the room, over to Coco’s belongings with another word.

Silver Liner, trying to light up the atmosphere, gestured to the pony’s tailoring equipment with a smile. “Let’s talk about the good things that happened last night as we help you.” To his horror, he watched Stitch’s face writhe in sadness as she began to sob bitterly. Everyone wanted to try and make her feel better, but she was quick to be by Knight Cap’s side. Silver held his head low and sighed. “I guess it is going to be hard on us all to be happy this morning. You are leaving after all....” Silky didn’t speak, but she nodded in agreement.

“Then… let’s make the best of it.” Coco tried to sound as enthusiastic as possible. “And let’s try and create the best of our moments here, and even make past memories most memorable.” To her surprise, none of the changelings smiled, nor showed any signs of positive attitudes. All they did was walk over to where Coco’s belongings were, along with the supplies that was given to her, and began to pack up.

***

The cleanup was done in silence, aside from the occasional, “is this yours,” or, “where does this go,” questions. Coco wanted to ask what was wrong, worried if she had done something to upset anychangeling. But she kept her mouth closed, keeping her thoughts to herself. Well, as much as she could, for every time the mare’s eyes met Knight Cap, Coco could feel the changeling crawling around in her brain.

With the last spool of white silk in Coco’s suitcase of fashion equipment, the pony’s belongings were now safely put away and ready for transport. The changelings stood before her, almost staring her down with saddened faces. Even Coco was beginning to feel how serious the situation was. She was leaving them and may never come back, and Coco was hoping there would be another time. But who knows what Chrysalis was thinking. And if Coco did know the queen’s thoughts, half of her questionmare questions would already be out the window.

Stepping from the group, Stitch walked over to Coco and gave her a close hug. “Thank you…” she muttered, tears patterning the pony’s shoulder. “Don’t you ever forget us, okay?”

“You the same,” Coco smiled, her eyes beginning to water up as well. She could tell that the others were about to say their farewells. Silky held on for a bit longer before having to force herself off of Coco.

Next, Knight Cap came forward and took off her night cap, hoofing it over to Coco. The changeling’s mane was messy, hairs sticking in random directions. “I want you to take this and show it to me if I ever forget you.”

“I hope you don’t,” Coco smirked as she looked at the blue and black striped head wear. She opened one of the suitcases and placed the gift in it, before turning around to see Silky right behind her.

“I… you…” Silky blushed, not sure what to say and looked to the others for help. Instead of helping her, everychangeing just looked back at her with blank looks in their faces. Returning to Coco, Silky wore a sad smile. “Do be careful.” Before Coco could reply, Silky already turned around as Silver walked forward.

“Inspire the world with amazing dresses, Coco, and maybe you will work for many rulers across the world.” Silver’s words made Coco shed tears as she found it hard to smile.

“But I guarantee that I will never meet a wonderful group of tailors as the four of you.” At once, the dress makers came forth and surrounded the pony. They bunched up close to Coco and gave a big group hug. None of them, including Coco, had a dry face as they sobbed, knowing they are going to miss the generous mare. Fang stood from afar, doing his best not to tear up, now knowing the fate of his relationship with Coco.

***

Coco admired the clouds in the sky, wondering if she was ever going to fly this high in the air ever again. The sky was starting to light up as the sun was beginning to rise in the east. She leaned up against the wall of the carriage, closing her eyes, remembering her last moments with her changeling friends. They all gave her a nice farewell, along with Sea More who happily waited by the wagon. Coco wanted to talk to him about if she was ever going to see him again, but even he, just like the others, never gave her a straight answer. She was also curious as to why Chrysalis was not at the runway to say goodbye, which really hurt Coco. Despite her views against the changeling’s spiteful attitude, Chrysalis was still her friend. Was she afraid to say goodbye face to face, not good with farewells? The mare did not know...

Now sitting upright, Coco wondered why Fang and the others were acting so strange this morning when ever the mare told the changelings not to forget about her.

***

It was hard to keep his emotions in check as Fang flapped his fake pegasus wings through the air. Otherwise, he might combust and catch the carriage on fire. A flurry of anger and sadness corsed through his veins for the past five hours, and was surprised he was able to suppress his fury.

“Scar Splash, you wretched…” Tears crawled out of the corners of his eyes, wishing he didn’t have to go through with Scar’s proposal…

***

Fang entered the throne room with his scythe in hoof, approaching the queen with a strong stride. His eyes leered at the presence of Scar Splash and lit his blade with a hot-orange glow. “Come to challenge the queen once more?” he asked.

“He has a proposal for me, regarding Coco Pommel,” Chrysalis spoke as the green flames glew brighter, growing her shadow. Scar looked up to the queen, not wanting to pay any attention to the heated changeling. “Perhaps you should hear it as well.”

“Yes Fang,” Scar smirked, his grin wide enough for Fang to see. “And I think you would hate it beyond belief.”

Fang picked up his pace and stormed over to Scar, almost ready to sink his scythe into the changeling’s flesh. “If you plan to hurt Coco, I swear-”

“Silence!” Chrysalis and her rage caused the flames to shoot up into a fiery pillar. Both Fang and Scar quivered in fear by their queen’s outburst as her now massive shadow nearly consumed the wall behind her. Calming the green heat, she looked down at Scar. “Now, tell me, how will I have an easy time with moving on from Coco Pommel?”

Fang’s eyes grew wide with fear and anger, wondering if Scar was trying to plan something mischievous. Scar noticed Fang’s expression and gave him a cocky grin. “Easy,” he spoke, not removing his gaze from the large toothed changeling. “In fact, this will not only benefit yourself, but all who know Coco. My solution to moving on from her would be to cast a mass amnesia on the entire hive. Let us forget about her entirely!”

“No! You can’t do that my queen!” Fang took a few steps forward with his hooves gripped tightly on his weapon shaft. His voice shook as he spoke and he wore a face of concern and worry.

But Chrysalis did not looked surprised at all by Scar’s proposal. In fact, she had a look of interest. “And why shouldn’t I, Fang? I know for a fact at this point that you are in love with Coco, which from the beginning of her visit, I have told you not to get close.” Fang blushed and his tooth glew hot orange, unable to hide his emotions. Chrysalis looked to Scar Splash with a blank expression as he stared back with a leering grin. “Perhaps Coco doesn’t control just me, but others as well. Instead of Fang listening to his wonderful leader, he instead chases after emotions that I refused for him to pursue.”

“Which is why I have come to you with this proposition.” His grin ever wider, almost reaching his eyes, Scar walked over to Fang and said, “The pony has made you weak. She has made you defy the queen.” Fang flashed his teeth to intimidate the heckler, but that did not stop Scar. “And I think, once you have forgotten all about that worthless pony, you will thank me.”

The changeling could take it no more and Fang swung his skull, crashing it into Scar’s head. Scar stumbled about, but kept himself standing. “Don’t you dare call her worthless!” Fang shouted, his weapon now on fire.

Chrysalis sat on her throne, not wanting to interject, but observe. “I now understand what you mean Scar.” Both stallions looked to their queen with curious gazes. “Fang, my personal guard, attacks his own kind over a pony we will no longer be associating with. I think your proposal will go into affect once my friend is gone. Then, I shall end my friendship with her by forgetting every moment she has made with me and any other changeling she has.” Despite his injury, Scar’s smile quickly returned to him.

Fang couldn’t believe what he was hearing; Chrysalis was agreeing with Scar and was willing to go through with his accursed idea. “My queen please, don’t go through with this!” He didn’t care if they heard the desperation in his throat. “I- I love her!”

“You think I don’t?” Chrysalis asked bluntly. Scar’s smile quickly evaporated, almost worried that his idea was about to be rejected. “That pony has accepted us for who we are, not what. But I do think it is for the better if we all forget about her.” Letting out a sigh of relief, Scar nodded in agreement with his queen. “I don’t want her to get caught in the crossfire of our affairs. She deserves a good life and should go see the rest of the world, not be cooped up here in this mountain.” Chrysalis’ eyes pierced Fang, knowing he too felt what she was feeling. “If you love Coco Pommel as I do, you will let her go.”

Fang couldn’t help himself as his hot face began to shed tears. But the tears were short lived and quickly evaporated in a vapor. “Fine…”

“So! I will go through with your proposal Scar.” Fang tossed in frustration his hot weapon, sparks flying from the blade as it clashed with the ground. “However, the only condition I have with this mass amnesia is this: every changeling will forget about Coco Pommel, except for you Scar Splash.”

Fang wanted to outburst at Chrysalis, wondering why he was gaining the blessing of remembering Coco. Even Scar was shocked to hear their queen’s words. “Why must I my queen?”

Chrysalis stood from her decorated chair and walked over to Scar. She could feel Fang’s warm stare, but paid no attention to him. Whispering into Scar’s ear, she said, “Because if you are going to remember her, than you will remember Coco. If we conquer Canterlot and move from there, I want to make sure Coco will not be harmed. And I am sure you don’t want your precious love to be hurt. Unless of course, you want me to cast amnesia on you so you can forget about your little unicorn.”

To his surprise, Fang heard Scar mutter, “Please, I don’t want to forget. I will go through with your condition my queen.”

***

Forest Rain pushed off hard of the barrier, pointing his hungry trident at Urchin. But the large monster lept out of the way and the pegasus pounded the sand with his hooves, the sand getting kicked up in a large brown cloud.

In the muddy fog, Forest Rain noticed Urchin was in front of him, aware that her back was turned to him. With all of his might, he swung the weapon and smacked it against the mermare’s side. She yelped in pain as she went soaring out of the mist of sand, hitting the wall of the arena hard. The crowd let out an “oh!” and followed up their surprised gasp with cheers. Urchin gasped in as much water as she could, trying to catch her breath. The battle has been going on for far too long, and her stamina was weakening. As for Forest Rain, he was barely anywhere winded. Thanks to his weapon and its power, the thickness of water no longer affected him and was able to move around with ease.

With her fleeting strength, Urchin tried to get up and move. However, Forest Rain’s recent attack crippled her and she crumpled to the ground. Seeing this happen before him, the pegasus pushed off of the sand and darted at the hideous mermare. Using his hooves, Forest Rain stomped into Urchin’s side. She let out a disgusting shout in pain before falling over, unable to absorb the blow. Her body hit the sandy floor with a loud thud, and the crowd’s cheering grew to the point where it hurt Forest Rain’s ears.

However, even over the roar of merfolk, the pegasus heard Urchin mutter, “End it… finish me off…” Looking up at Tail Fin, Forest Rain could see him peering down with an eager gaze. With all of his might, along with the trident's ability to amplify his anger, Forest Rain threw the golden weapon at the prince. It traveled so quickly that it was only a blur just before it stabbed into the barrier, cracking the protective shield. The crowd gasped at the sudden act and booed the pegaus.

“I can’t kill you,” Forest Rain spoke over the angered crowd. “I have nothing against you.”

Urchin laughed a little before grunting in pain. “Even though I tried everything I could to end your life?” She transformed back into her mermare form, but couldn’t get herself to move. “So what now? I don’t think my blasted brother will let both of us leave alive…” Forest floated above Urchin, no longer filled with an uncontrollable wrath and at a loss for words.

“Fillies and gentlecolts!” Both Forest and Urchin flinched as Tail Fin proclaimed to the crowd. Everypony’s voice was silenced, wanting to hear their prince. “Even though you have hoped to witnessed a life being claimed, it seems our combatants wish to no longer fight.” Another wave of boos filled the arena before dying off. “However, I must say that these two put up quite a show.” From Forest Rain’s perspective, he could see the merfolk chattering among themselves in agreement. (What is the prince getting at?) “As I watched the battle, I had an idea: what if-”

KUKUNCK!

Coco shrieked as she bounced out of her chair and fell to the ground. If there was one thing Coco was not going to miss, it would be Fang’s horrible landing. As if anything couldn’t get any worse, the novel she was reading fell onto her head. The mare rubbed her head to try and ease the pain as she stood onto all fours.

The carriage door opened and Fang peered into the wagon. “We are here at Canterlot,” he spoke, not asking the pony if she was alright. Coco looked outside to see that they were not in the white-stoned city. Fang moved out of her way as she stepped outside to see the castle in the distance. Several trees stood up from the forest as a dirt trail lead toward the city.

“There is a hotel called the Royal Palace.” Coco didn’t look back at the changeling as he spoke, wondering if she is welcomed to Canterlot after last night’s events. Then again, Celestia did tell Coco to cause no more trouble, so perhaps there is no ill will against her. “Tell them that your name is Coco Pommel for the Princess Domain. You can stay there for up to a week with no cost out of your pay, for I have handled the expenses. After you are done with whatever you need to do here, you can go back home to Manehattan.”

Now turning around to face Fang, Coco asked, “When did you get this handled?”

“The… queen wanted me to get you a place to stay if anything went awry. So, when I got you those flowers from yesterday, I booked you into the best hotel I could find.” Fang looked to the castle that clung to the mountain side. “And after Queen Chrysalis told me the events of last night as I guarded her, I could guess things didn’t go according to plan…”

“Yeah…” Coco muttered, looking down at the dirt path. “She was not happy that I didn’t pretend to play dumb. And I feel like I messed up the entire attempt to create peace between ponies and changelings.” The mare knew that that was not the real reason, but that it was Celestia and her hurtful attitude against Chrysalis. But Coco wanted Fang to comfort her, for she knows he was always willing to help. Sure enough, the changeling went up to the pony and held her close.

Feeling it was okay to do so, Coco kissed Fang on the cheek before resting her cheek against his warm breast. She looked up at the disguised changeling as he wore his crimson unicorn form. He looked so handsome, much more than the time he walked into Coco’s work with his black cloak.

“Fang,” Coco asked, looking up to the stallion, still resting her head on his chest, “what is going to happen now? What is going to happen with Chrysalis? Will I be able to see the others again?” Fang had to look away to avoid seeing the pony’s sad, glossy eyes. “Will I be able to see you again…?”

Wanting to see her now, Fang turned his attention to the lovely mare. He lifted his hoof to Coco’s chin to have her appropriately look at him. They gazed into each other’s eyes, Fang having a slight height advantage and looked down at her. “Will I…?” Coco muttered as her muzzle slowly gravitated towards Fang. Before long, they kissed deeply, carried away in the emotions they felt for each other. The world around Coco vanished as she closed her eyes, giving her emotions to the stallion she was now so fond of. Not even a month has gone by, and she could tell Fang was the one. He was the stallion she wished to be her special somepony.

When their lips parted, Fang stepped away from the mare, afraid his emotions were about to overspill with tears. “You ask… too many questions. However, this time, I will be able to answer each and every one of them.” Coco remained standing where she was, wondering what Fang meant, yet stilled her tongue and awaited his words.

“The kingdom ahead will become victim to another invasion.” Fang dropped his head, not wanting to look at Canterlot.

“B-but why?” Coco muttered, not wanting to believe the changeling. “What good will senseless harm do?”

Fang turned toward the pony, his brows creased. “That princess is the reason why we changelings cannot have happiness. Chrysalis wants to remind Celestia what happens when you take away something that is so easily obtained.”

The mare took a few steps away from Fang, her brows now matching his. “I hope you are lying.”

“I wish I was,” he sighed. “And trust me, the only reason why I wish to not go through with the attack is because of you. I know it is senseless.”

Coco huffed from her nostrils, now furious with the changeling queen. “Chrysalis is a coward then, not willing to tell me what she plans to do with the love she got thanks to me… She has to use you as a messenger. Some friend. She didn't even come to say goodbye to me...” Fang felt insulted as he heard the pony insult his leader and was about to tell her off, but held his sharp tongue. Coco couldn’t hold onto her anger for long and frowned. “I do hope something prevents her from attacking. A-and I don’t mean any spite.”

“I know,” Fang nodded.

The mare began to shutter, angry and saddened with the harsh reality she lived in. “So… does that mean I won’t be able to come back…? Will I see the children again…? Will I see my friends?” Coco’s eyes glossed with liquid, breaking Fang’s heart in the process. “Will I... be able to see you ever again…?” Her lips made a sour frown as tears quickly ran down her cheeks.

“N-no…” Fang replied in a low mumble as his voice choked over the growing depression in his heart. And he too had his own tears to shed. “In f-fact... I-” The pain gripped his heart in a vicegrip and Fang began to lament bitterly. “I am so sorry, Coco… I am so sorry…” He shook his head to awake from this living nightmare. Now both filled with grief, the two held each other, knowing this will be the last time he was going to see her; and remember her.

“Before I forget, my dear sweet Coco Pommel…” Fang whispered into her ear. Coco gripped tightly around his neck, pressing her face into his warm chest. “...I wanted to tell you something I realised yesterday.”

“A-and what is t-that…?” she answered in a stutter, her sadness overwelming.

“I- I love you.” Coco began to weep bitterly, her sobs ringing in Fang’s ears and her grip tightened around his neck. “You are the most amazing blessing the hive has ever had, aside from the queen. Your generosity, your kindness, your loyalty, your friendship. They mean so much to me. They even mean so much to the queen. She does love you as I do; however, my love for you is hotter than the core of this world. And… you are the only flame to warm my heart. And I will never be warm because of this tragic world we call Equestria.”

Coco began to hate the stubborn attitudes of both Celestia and Chrysalis. Why were the two so polar opposite from each other? Why couldn’t they agree? Was it their differences they had with each other? The questions were not making Coco feel any better.

“Fang… I- I love you too…” Coco looked up at Fang and tried her best to smile. The changeling admired what she was able to muster up and grinned right back at her. “You are the sweetest stallion I have even known. From the first moment you walked into the cafe, to the first time you held me… to now.”

Fang closed his eyes, remembering the first time Coco ran into his arms when Chrysalis had upset her. “Like I said, you are the only mare to keep me warm, especially when you did that. You trusted me, and I never thought a pony would ever give me that. Their trust” His cheeks fell down into a sad frown. “But unfortunately, I will not be able to remember you after today…”

Coco’s brows creased slightly with concern and wonder. “What do you mean by that…?

The changeling sniffed through his nose before answering the questionmare. “Last night, Scar came to the queen last night and…” Fang’s anger got the best of him and he flashed his teeth. “Queen Chrysalis wants to move on from you as easily as she could.”

“Does she not like me?” Coco gasped.

“Oh you are far from wrong. Queen Chrysalis cherishes you dearly and knows she will miss you. So instead of keeping you on her mind, she went to Scar Splash and asked for his advice for some reason.” Fang rested his cranium on Coco’s forehead.

“And what advice did he give her?” Coco swallowed, not sure what to expect.

“He wants to cast a mass amnesia spell on the entire hive, and forget about you… And the queen is following through with it...” Fang’s words were quiet. Soft. But they stung at Coco’s heart and she almost fell over from disbelief. But Fang kept her on her hooves, holding her ever so closely. “That means… I won’t be able to remember you…” Fang wanted to cry more tears, but he had already exhausted himself to the point his eyes were scratchy and dry.

“But I will be the one left to remember…?” Coco squeaked. And Fang nodded a slow nod. “Why? WHY?!” The mare pushed him away and stamped a hoof on the ground, her eyes filled with furious sorrow. “Why must I be cursed with remembering you and the others, but Chrysalis won’t have the faintest idea I am?! That’s not right! She is a coward for doing this, not just to me, but to you! To every changeling she leads!” Fang took a few steps forward to try and give Coco another embrace, but the mare held up a hoof. “Just stop.” She looked deep into Fang’s eyes, hoping he would understand what she was feeling. “If you love me, challenge Chrysalis just like I have. Tell her that this is not the way to go and that I will be the one hurt in the end. Otherwise, you can just go back to her and forget this ever happened…”

Both mare and stallion stared at each other, not sure what to say. A cold breeze blew by, stinging Coco’s dry eyes.

“Then I guess this is it…” Fang spoke, his voice sounding absolute.

“Yeah, it is,” Coco nodded.

The changeling looked to the carriage and said, “The carriage is yours. Take it back to Canterlot, to Manehattan, to wherever you wish.”

“Yes, let me have it.” Coco’s words were sharp with hurt. “So I can remember the ones who chose to forget me.”

With nothing else to say or do, Fang turned around and a flash of green ran over his body, revealing the changeling beneath the crimson fur. “Goodbye, my dear sweet Coco...”

“Just GO! I don’t want you to sweet talk me if you are going to forget me!” After standing still by her words, Fang buzzed his wings and leapt up into the sky.

All alone, Coco managed to find herself crying again...

His Full Name

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It felt like a walk of shame as the sobbing mare trudged into the kingdom of Canterlot. Several on goers stared at Coco, curious at to why she was, and their eyes made her feel even worse. She can’t remember the time she had pulled a carriage, let alone a heavy one, and was having a difficult time moving the blasted thing.

Coco looked around to see if anypony could help her find the Royal Palace Hotel, but felt flustered to do so because of her sad circumstance. Instead of asking for assistance, the mare walked around the city blindly, knowing she will find the hotel eventually

She didn’t know how long she moved about Canterlot, nor did she care, even though the heavy carriage weighed her down more than her sunken heart. At least Coco had that to make her feel somewhat distracted.

Moving down one street, a familiar couple were walking on the sidewalk. Derpy and Time Turner both wore two diamond crowns that sparkled in the sunlight as they talked among themselves. Coco never thought she would be glad to see a trophy she wanted, but didn’t win.

Before Coco could even get the chance to wave at them, Derpy’s eyes straightened as she saw the damsel in distress. “Coco!” The pegasus dashed over to her, flapping her wings at an incredible rate. But she flew too fast and crashed into the carriage face first. Thankfully, Coco was not hurt by Derpy’s careless flight. Popping her face off of the wagon and falling to the ground, Derpy’s eyes rolled around in her head as she stood on all fours. “We have been looking all over for you!”

“Hugh?” Coco sniffed as she wiped her eyes to try and hide any sadness she was shedding.

“I am surprised you are still here in Canterlot.” Time Turner scratched his chin, examining the sad mare. He looked around to see ponies stare at he, Derpy, and Coco, perhaps turning their ears to hear what the commotion was all about. “Perhaps a more private location is in order.”

***

Thankfully for Coco, Time Turner and Derpy have made their way around Canterlot and grew familiar with the city. When Coco asked the two if they had heard of the Royal Palace hotel, the stallion led the way. Now checked in for the Princess Domain, a bellboy pushed a heavy dolly with large luggage cases, suitcases, and a large chest. Coco knew she didn’t bring a wooden chest along with her when she left Manehattan. She wanted to peer into it once she was in her room.

The bellboy pulled out a key from his colorful uniform and unlocked the door to her suit. Coco looked back to make sure Derpy and Time Turner were still behind her; thankfully, they were. The mare was now desperate to talk to somepony about her distress, even if she hardly knew about the two.

“Here we are,” the employee spoke as he gestured into the room. Coco was the first to step into the room, and Derpy and Time Turner were soon to follow. The couple gasped at the lovely decor the estate held. A large bed with a gilded bed frame glittered in the middle of the room. The walls were painted with various roses in different colors, each one unique from the next. A large window with a door to the balcony was on the opposite side of the door. To the normal common dweller, such a place would lighten up any mood. Sadly, it was not enough to impress Coco to make her feel any better about her current heartache.

“The key to your room is on the dresser,” the bellboy spoke with a tone that was begging for a nice tip.

“Thanks,” was all Coco could muster. Making sure his irritation was heard, the employee let out a bothered grumble before walking off.

Pulling on the dolly, Coco brought it further into the room and started to remove her luggage with a sad expression that spoke many things. “I will get those for you,” Time Turner smiled, his urge of being a gentlestallion flaring. But Coco shook her head, her mind on the wooden chest. With most of her belongings out of the way, the mare was no longer blocked by rectangular obstacles. The mare opened the chest with ease and was met with a lovely assortment of treasures.

Bits were filled to the rim, the coins glittering from the sunlight. Several flawless gems rested at the top of the sea of gold, a few necklaces of pearls dwelled among the lovely rocks, and a crown crafted out of pure diamond sat at the center.

Derpy’s chin almost hit the floor and Time Turner raised his brows, surprised to see such a hefty amount of wealth before them. To their delight, they saw Coco smile as she peered into the treasure chest.

“That’s… quite a lot of gold you got there,” Time Turner chuckled.

“Are you kidding?!” Derpy exclaimed. “That’s more money than you could ever make!” Time Turner grunted at his beloved’s unintentional quip. I do love you Derpy, but sometimes, you make it a challenge.

Closing the chest, Coco turned to the couple and asked Derpy, “So what did you mean ‘you have been looking for me?’”

“Oh! Oh! Yes!” The pegasus flapped her wings eagerly. “Violet-”

“Velvet,” Time Turner corrected.

“Yes, her. Velvet came to us to try and find you last night. They said it was important that she spoke to you personally.” Coco raised her brows, surprised she was sought out. But her expression sank along with her lips.

“Why? After being friends with… them, I would assume Velvet would not want to associate with me…” Coco walked over to the windows, their craft reminding her of the room she stayed in at the changeling hive.

“‘Them?’” Time Turner looked to his love to see if she knew what Coco meant, but Derpy’s eyes crossed even more with confusion. “Do you mean Fang and Your Majesty?”

Just his name alone was enough to make the earth pony’s lip quiver and her brows crease with sadness. “Y-yeah…”

Derpy heard the choke in Coco’s voice and put a hoof on her shoulder. “It’s okay. If you want to, you can tell us what happened. And if you don’t… I will ask you again nicely.” The silly nature of the cross-eyed mare made Coco smile; though that didn’t stop a few tears from sliding off her cheeks.

“I will tell you both what had happened, but I want to see Velvet first.” Coco shook her head. “But then again, neither of you may not like what you hear…”

“Of course we want to hear what is on your mind.” Derpy looked over to Time Turner and asked with a smile, “Right honey?” The look she gave him was a stare that said, “If you choose not to side with me, I will not be happy with your choice.”

“Of course,” he nodded with obedience. Time Turner clasped his hooves together and said, “Thankfully, I know where to rally if I happened to come across you.” He turned around and made for the door. “I will fetch Velvet, Platinum, and Suri. Derpy, can you stay here with Coco and keep her company?”

“Yes sir!” The gray pegasus gave a solute, promising the task will be done. Coco stepped forward, surprised to hear two other names that were spoken.

“You said Suri? Suri was looking for me?” Coco had a look of surprise as she spoke.

“Despite my distaste for her,” Time Turner mumbled, “Suri does have a heart and she was very concerned about you when Velvet came to us, asking to look for you. She never gave us any detail as to why she was searching for you, but her desperation was enough to make us all worry.”

Coco gazed at the floor, a light smile growing on her lips. “I am glad to hear a new friend of mine is looking for me.” Reminds me of Fang… As his face flashed in her mind, she didn’t have the strength to hold her grin. “You should go and get them.”

“Right!” Quickly, the light-brown stallion broke into a brisk walk.

***

The air stung Fang’s eyes as he fluttered his insect-like wings through the sky. He never knew if he would ever cry in his life, nor knew about what. Now that he has, the pain in his heart could not compare to any physical harm that has ever happened to the changeling.

Fang looked down below to see a small, gray cloud drift alone by itself. In a fit of anger, he charged at it, stomping on the fluff with all of his strength. Lightning spat out from below and the thunder cracked with a nasty sound.

“Scar, you blasted inbreed!” Fang screamed as he stood on the small platform. His heat caused the simple cloud to darken. Warm rain started to fall as more lightning continued to stab down at the world Fang began to hate. If only the hot energy would strike down Scar Splash from wherever he stood. Relieved of some of his anger,, Fang continued to fly back to the hive. But the sadness that dwelled from within kept him from being quick about it.

***

The large mountain stabbed into the sky as it came into Fang’s view. Coco’s words echoed in his head as he was on the approach. If you love me, challenge Chrysalis just like I have. Fang shivered at the thought of challenging his leader, what she might do to him if he did. Coco was only able to do so because she was a friend of Queen Chrysalis. Fang would like to consider himself as a friend to his queen, but he knows more of her disciplinary action.

Before Fang came in for a landing, he made sure he was calm and collect, not allowing others to see through his facade. Now on the ground, the changeling made for Queen Chrysalis’ chamber, so he may report to her.

***

“Enter Fang!” Chrysalis’ voice boomed from behind the large door. Fang entered his queen’s domain, his hooves now dragging on the ground. It took him a huge amount of strength to keep a straight face as he marched through his home. Now away from the other changelings, he dared to show his true emotions to his leader.

Before Queen Chrysalis, Fang frowned at her, which caused the ruler to mirror his expression. “How did Coco take the news?” Chrysalis asked in a low tone, her posture not so strong.

Fang let out a sigh before answering. “She hated it. She called you a coward for following through with this.”

Still holding onto her frown, Chrysalis’ lit her horn brightly. “I do hope those are not your own words…” She looked from behind her sharp throne and out stepped Knight Cap, along with the other tailors. “They wish to know what had happened.”

Fang looked at the four dressmakers as they stared back with expressions that said that they wanted to know what had happened with their friend. But at the same time, none of them wanted to know how much Coco was hurt.

“Tell me, Knight Cap,” Chrysalis spoke in an almost whisper, “what happened when Fang left Coco at Canterlot?” Fang didn’t want to attempt to try and hide his thoughts. He wanted Knight Cap to know exactly how he felt.

With all eyes on her, the now not-capped changeling stepped forward, and gazed into Fang’s eyes. It took a few moments before he saw Knight Cap gasp. Fang looked at the ground, knowing there was nothing left to hide. Even his queen knew he loved the light-cream earth pony, so what was the point of keeping that thought below the surface?

“Fang, you-” Knight Cap spoke briefly before he shot a hot glare at her, cutting off her ability to speak. The other three tailors looked between the two, wondering what was being exchanged. Not even two minutes passed before Knight Cap could take it no longer, and she looked back at her queen.

“Tell me what happened,” Chrysalis ordered bluntly.

Knight Cap shook her head. “Fang was right. She did call you a coward, along with several other insults.” The queen hummed a bit, perhaps saddened by this fact. “Coco seemed, no, was very broken when Fang told her Scar’s plan.”

“I am not surprised…” Chrysalis sagged her shoulders. “Perhaps I should have said my farewells to her as well.” She then shook her head, remembering Scar’s words. “Whatever. Soon, none of us will care for her.” Stitch make a sound before she began to sob. Those around her wanted to give her a warm embrace to comfort the sensitive mare, but stood still, wanting to hear more about what Knight Cap had to say. “What else happened?”

Fang’s cheeks flushed, worried about his queen’s possible wrath if Knight Cap tells Chrysalis that he kissed Coco Pommel. “He-”

“I confessed my love to her!” Fang exclaimed, his voice echoing off of the walls and his eyes pointed hard at Queen Chrysalis. Big mistake. He felt his hooves levitate off of the ground for a moment before Fang felt his body be tossed across the room. Like a ragdoll, the changeling tumbled across the ground, as pain shot through his nerves with each and every bounce. Once his body came to a complete stop, Chrysalis pulled Fang’s limp body on the floor with her magic, making sure his face was scratched on the ground before she would look upon his stupid expression. Before speaking, Chrysalis lifted the changeling’s body up a few feet before slamming him hard onto the ground. Fang let out a cry in pain as his ribs almost cracked at the impact.

“Do you understand why we must forget about Coco?” Queen Chrysalis asked, looking to her dressers. They looked at her, not sure what to say or do. “She has made my own personal guard to speak to me in ways that should never be said. She has also caused him to disobey me and fall in love with her, even though I had explicitly told Fang not to do so.” Fang twitched a bit before trying to stand. But that only made his queen even more angry. “When I order you to not love somepony…!” His body once more lifted up into the air before being forced back down. “...you do as I say!” Fang moaned in pain, not sure if his heartache compared to the physical harm his queen had just undone to him. Buzzing her wings, Queen Chrysalis flew from her chair and landed beside the broken spirited changeling. “You should not be angry with me, anyways. Instead, you should be angered with the one who denied you your happiness.”

Fang’s eyes opened to see his leader’s hooves right before him. He feared she would use his face as a stepping stool and remained still. “Who is the one who denied you your happiness Fang? Who denied our happiness? And no, it is not Scar Splash.”

Thinking abou the question, Fang took in a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh of pain. Was it me? Was it Coco? What does the queen mean by “our happiness?” Who? Who?! Then his eyes widened with anger and spoke through his sharp teeth, “Celestia…”

Chrysalis heard the other tailors gasp at his answer and she turned her head to them. “He is correct. The reason why we can no longer be her friend is because that blasted princess took what was yours: your friendship. Your friend. Your chances of seeing her another day.” At once, Chrysalis saw them become angered as well. “Now you understand my hatred for that princess. She took what was mine, and now she took what was yours. Celestia is too afraid of us and can only cower at our mere existence. And because she has saddened my kin, I wish to relieve you of your sadness and forget all about Coco Pommel. But know this…”

Walking over to her throne, Queen Chrysalis sat at her chair with a proud posture. “...Coco Pommel is the only pony who has given us a chance. I do not want to forget about my dear friend.” She felt every eye stare at her; even Fang gazed up at her as he remained lying on the ground. “But we cannot be blinded by our goal: to take the love that Celestia had worked so hard for. Let us show her what happens when she turns against the changeling hive!”

“Yes my queen!” the changelings spoke in horrifying unison. Not a single one of them showed any sign of sadness as they wielded stares of hatred.

Levitating Fang off the ground, Chrysalis spun him around and had his hooves dangle below him. “You may stand.” Gently, Fang was let down and firmly stood in place, looking up at his queen. “Now, before we go through with the mass amnesia, I have one more thing that needs to be done.”

“And what is that my queen?” Fang asked.

No longer wishing to be angry, Chrysalis leg go of her anger. “I wish for you to deliver a message to Coco from me to her.”

Fang too had his anger evaporate at the mere request. “I am afraid Coco wishes to not see me… Even if I am given the chance to glance at her before she is forgotten…” He frowned and looked at the tailors who looked at one another, only speaking through expressions and body language.

“Then I am sure Sea More would happily fulfill my request.”

***

“And when he confessed his feelings to me, I hyperventilated and passed out!” Derpy giggled, moving a suitcase close to the large-gilded bed.

“Oh my goodness!” Coco let out a shocked giggle, somewhat not surprised Derpy would do such a thing.

“And when I woke up on his couch, I had forgotten what had just happened.” The pegasus shook her head and laughed at her past semantics. “Sometimes I wonder how Time Turner deals with me.”

“Oh don't go beating yourself up.” Coco waved a dismissive hoof at Derpy with a smile. “You are a cute mare and Time Turner is lucky to have you.”

Derpy’s eyes looked in opposite directions, her cheeks flushing with red. “Aww, you don't have to say that. Besides, you and that big tooth unicorn are much more adorable together.” A frown weighed heavily on Coco’s lips, reminding her of his confession, and then, Chrysalis’ plan to forget all about her. “Oh, wait! Did something happen between you… and…” Coco held her head down, wishing her heartache would go away. “I-I'm sorry… I didn't mean to ruin the mood.” Derpy’s ears folded back in shame. “I tend to ruin things for ponies...”

“Oh no, it's not your fault.” Coco crawled onto the soft, red sofa and leaned against the armrest. She snuggled her back into a fuzzy pillow that rested on the comfortable seat. “You had nothing to do with what had happened.”

“What did happen?” Derpy flew over to the couch and stopped flapping her wings, plopping down onto the cushions with a “wump!”

“I'd rather wait for the others before I answer that.” Coco let out a sigh. “It’s better that everypony knows the truth about them. And me.”

KNOCK! KNOCK!

As fate was literally knocking at Coco’s hotel room door, she knew who was there. Or perhaps more were behind the door. Like the royal guard who may arrest her for siding with the changelings. Regardless of who was at the door, Coco walked over to it and took a deep breath before letting those outside inside.

The door hinges squeaked as the large panel between her and the four outside was slowly pulled open. Coco made sure her eyes met everypony before silently gesturing them to come inside. Time Turner, Suri Polomare, Velvet, and Platinum were not sure what to say and kept a mute tongue as each one funneled into the suite.

Being the most curious out of them all, Platinum said aloud, “Is Stitch Snitch alright?” Coco could tell just by looking at his eyes that the stallion meant what he said. She glanced at his sister and saw that she was wearing the same face as Platinum.

“I- I understand that we are all curious as to whatever is going on right now,” Time Turner spoke to the group of ponies. He turned his attention to Velvet, his brow slightly creasing with curiosity. “However, you were the one who wanted to seek Coco out in the first, and have never bothered to tell any of us why.” TIme Turner looked at Platinum with a small frown. “I don’t know what had happened last night with Stitch, but I think Suri, Derpy, and I should be informed as to why your sister caused us to worry.”

Suri nodded. “I agree. I thought something had happened to Coco and I couldn’t get an ounce of sleep because of it.” Her eyes were drooping with exhaustion and told everypony that she may fall over at any moment. Coco felt glad that Suri worried about her and made her feel that all past conflicts have been forgotten.

Velvet crossed her forelegs, not sure if she should tell them why. She looked over to Coco, the two mares knowing the secret that they bared. “I- I was worried about Coco because… last night… I found out that Coco had befriended changelings. I feared Princess Celestia arrested her because I never saw her leave and I wanted to be sure that was not the case…”

Derpy, and Time Turner looked at each other with disbelief and darted their attention to Coco Pommel. “You- you knew about changelings being here?” the stallion asked, his tone starting to get angry.

Coco had to face the truth; and the upset stallion. “Yes. Your Majesty, Fang, and even Stitch are changelings.” Glancing over to Derpy, she saw the mare stare back at her with a scared look in her eyes. “But… they are not as bad as they seem…” Coco noticed Platinum nod his head slowly, but only enough to not draw attention to himself.

Time Turner briskly walked over to his girlfriend and scowled at Coco. “Not as bad? Have your forgotten what they had done to this kingdom?!” He threw an arm into the air and swung his hoof down on the floor. The sound of hoof pounding on carpet made a loud thump, and Coco worried if those below her would be concerned with what was going on from above. “Heck, I was here when it happened! I wasn’t shown any kindness when they invaded as I coward against a wall. How dare you say ‘they are not as bad as they seem!’” He looked around at the others, not wanting to take another look at the treacherous mare. Finding his eyes on Suri, he said, “I am shocked to not see you causing a ruckus, yelling at how much of a lyar Coco is.”

Suri tried to find the right words to say, but knew anything said about changelings would set him off.

“I understand your anger as to why you dislike the changelings.” Coco blinked and looked toward the ground. “But… can you at least hear why I chose to side with them?” When the mare looked up at Time Turner, his brows were less creased, but there was still distaste in her eyes. She looked to the thestrals who wore curious stares, their pupil slits wider than usual. “Would you two like to hear my story as well? I can tell you a little more about Stitch Snitch.”

“Please,” Platinum stepped forward, almost sounding desperate; perhaps eager to hear about Stitch.

Coco cracked a smile, unable to help herself to a silly giggle. “You really care about her, don’t you?”

His cheeks flared with blush and his ears fell back, embarrassed to tell the others he might have fallen for a changeling. “Well, I believed every tear that she shed, so you tell me.”

Turning her attention back to Time Turner, Coco asked calmly, “So, would you and Derpy like to hear my story? You don’t have to if you wish not to.”

The couple looked at each other without speaking any words. Derpy mustered up a light smile and said, “I am willing to listen.” She put a hoof on Time Turner’s shoulder and pulled him in close. “And so will he.”

As if you are giving me a choice… Despite his forceful girlfriend, Time Turner nodded, “I will as well. I wish to hear your reasons, even if I still end up not finding a liking to changelings.”

“Then you all may want to sit down,” Coco spoke a bit louder than before. “It’s kind of a long story.”

***

Coco Pommel went into extreme detail about her last two weeks, from the moment Fang walked through the doors of the cafe the mare worked at, to her slow, sad trek to Canterlot. The only thing Coco left out were the quarrels she and Suri had; the poor mare had gone through enough recent things happen to her as well. Suri was glad Coco made no attempt to make her look bad and was more grateful for her ex-coworker’s forgiving nature.

Derpy and Velvet laughed at the silly game the children made based off of Coco’s name, and cried at how Fang confessed his love to Coco just before telling her the news he and the entire hive was forgetting all about her.

Time Turner seemed to calm his temper when Coco told him and the others that she convinced Queen Chrysalis to attempt to create peace among changelings and ponies. He was pleased and impressed to hear Coco say that she constantly argued with the changeling queen and changed her mind multiple times.

Platinum smiled to hear how Stitch was as sensitive as she was at the hive even before she met him. And when Coco told him about how she didn’t believe she was going to find a nice stallion, he told the earth pony how Stitch said she trusted him. Coco then asked if he still does trust her. Platinum replied, saying how he wishes to ask that her if the chance ever comes. After thinking about her for a bit more, the thestral grew quiet and sad.

When it came to explaining the events of Chrysalis’ unveiling, Platinum and Velvet made their inputs as well, knowing well what they partook in. Platinum had to explain how he saw Stitch writhe in pain when she fed herself the cake, how it broke his heart. Velvet couldn’t help but tear up, remembering the moment before she went to retrieve the delicious dessert, how she said changelings should suffer. She wishes she could take back her sharp words…

“...and so, here we all are. That was my time with the changelings and Queen Chrysalis.” Coco’s ears fell back, but her lips smiled. “It was-” She gasped as her words lodged themselves in her throat and tears rolled down her face. “I- I am glad to have been their friends.” Suddenly, sadness grasped Coco’s heart and she began to sob bitterly, bringing her hooves to hide her shameful face. Velvet was quick to her side and held the mare close. “I am just… so angry with- b-both Queen Chrysalis and Princess Celestia. Why couldn’t they j-j-just get along?! Why…?”

Nopony dared to answer the question; nopony wanted to answer the question; because nopony had an answer for the question.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

Everypony diverted their attention to the door, wondering who could possibly be there. Time Turner stood up and said, “May I get the door, Coco?”

She sniffed before answering. “Just tell them to come back another time please…”

He nodded, went to the door, and opened it. “I am sorry,” Time Turner said, looking at the stallion before him, “but we are quite busy and-”

“Please, I need to see Coco Pommel. My name is Sea More. She knows who I am.” His voice was loud enough for the one whom he was requesting hear him.

The mare knew who it was, but was not so sure she wanted to see the changeling. “Time Turner, can you please move out of the way?” Coco asked, wishing to see who the newest guest. When changeling and pony met their gazes, Coco did not look too happy to see him. “Have you not forgotten me yet?”

Sea More looked around at the others, not knowing they hold the truth to Coco knowing about changelings. Their stares were not the most welcoming despite having no malice. “Your Majesty has some final words to give you before she… moves on.”

The mare sniffed some mucus that was starting to run out of her nostrils and shook her head. “So Chrysalis is not willing to come to me face to face and send a messenger instead? Some queen…” She saw Sea More take a few steps back, worried by her words. “Don’t worry, they know about changelings. Come in and close the door.” Coco gestured the shapeshifter into the room with a tilt of her head and Sea More briskly made his way in, closing the door behind him.

Seeing Suri Polomare smile at him, he replied with a grin and nod, “Nice to see you again. Congrats on the victory.” The mare bobbed her head slightly, not wanting to say anything else. Stepping toward Coco, Sea More held something in his hooves; something black and made of cloth. “There are three things within them,” he said plainly. The changeling hooved the folded item over to the pony and stepped backwards. “Before you unfold the gift, I wish to say a few words before I go. I feel… unwelcome and I fully understand that, so I will be short.”

Coco let out a sigh, somehow not angry with him. “You are welcomed in my presence. I won’t be angry with you because I am sure you are not pleased with Scar’s proposition.” A low grumble and bitter stare at the ground from Sea More was a good enough answer. Coco looked around at the others and asked them, “Are you displeased with him being here?” Each head answered “no” with a short shake; it took Time Turner a bit longer than the others before siding with them. “So Sea More, what do you wish to tell me?”

His ears retreated and held his head low, shutting his eyes tightly. “I’m sorry… I’m sorry I failed… My entire goal was to have the queen see how important befriending a pony can me. I did succeed in that.” Sea More stamped his hoof in frustration and gritted his teeth. “But that… that- worm! How could Scar easily convince the queen to force us to forget you?”

Coco shook her head, not understanding why Scar would be so resistant against her. She closed her eyes and remembered Scar’s markings on his face. Coco pondered within her mind as to why he hates her. Why he hates ponies. But despite her distaste for the changeling, Coco felt pity for him. If he fell in love with a unicorn, what changed his mind about ponies now? Perhaps she will never find out.

In a quick flash of green flame, Sea More looked different. Everypony flinched except for Coco at the sudden change of appearance. Time Turner stepped close to Derpy with a crease in his brow, warning the changeling with his eyes alone to not try anything suspicious. Coco turned her head slightly, curious as to why Sea More changed from earth pony to a pegasus. His fur was snow-white and mane had a unique pattern of color. On the right of his head, Sea More’s hair was a nice, slightly creamy red; the other half was a shade of patriotic blue.

“Do you remember that book I gave you, Coco?” Sea More asked, his eyes filled with determination. The mare looked down at the black cloth before back at the changeling, nodding at his question. “I want you to keep it in sight at all times, for I am going to make a promise to you.”

Coco rubbed at the soft fabric, enjoying it’s feel. “And what might that be? You are going to forget about me, so what is the point?”

“I wrote that book.” The pony couldn’t keep her attention on the black square and turned her now surprised expression at Sea More. “I may be a changeling, but I am also a pony. Even if I forget about you, I will be around.” He pointed at the gift that rested in Coco’s lap. “My mother’s address is on one of those papers wrapped in that cloak; she lives in Manehattan. Go to her and tell her that you know who I am.”

Cloak? Quickly, Coco Pommel unraveled the black clothing and saw that it was indeed a cloak. Two pieces of paper drifted to the ground, but the mare payed no mind to them. “I-is this… F-Fang’s?” A lump in her throat swelled, her eyes filling with tears. Suddenly feeling cold, the mare tossed it around her body. The hood sagged on her shoulder, but Coco didn’t care how she was improperly wearing the article of clothing.

Sea More noticed everypony staring at Coco with sad frowns. Velvet rubbed the distressed mare’s back in hopes her affection is enough to help in some manner. “It is…” Even Sea More was having a difficult time being serious and had to try his best to keep his own tears at bay. “Anyways, when you see my mother, tell her everything that has happened. But tell her to not tell me I knew you before I forgot.”

Coco’s tears scattered as she shook her head, clenching tightly onto the cloak. “Why must there be all this pretending?”

“Because of my promise I am going to make to you.” Sea More watched the earth pony slowly look up to him. Believing she was listening to him, the changeling resumed, “I swear, I will find a way to make Queen Chrysalis make peace with Princess Celestia. And when the time does come, when the moment both ponies and changelings live together with no worry or strife, I want you to reveal yourself to Chrysalis. Then you will have your friends back. You will have Fang back.”

Coco stilled herself, trying to maintain a steady breath as her sobbing was coming to a standstill. “But none of you will remember me…”

A grin grew on Sea More’s lips. “You forget about Knight Cap. She can read minds. See things others can remember.” Coco gasped a little, a little smile lifting up the ends of her mouth. “She will see things you remembered.” Sea More walked over to the mare and gave her a confident stare. “You will be remembered, but in a different way. That I do swear. And maybe, there might be a way to remove the amnesia.” He nodded and took a few steps backwards, toward the door. “That story I have written has only begun. And my quest for peace is not over, for I am Diploma Sea More, the Secret Ambassador of both ponies and changelings!”

Coco couldn’t help but giggle at how passionate Sea More was becoming. “You sound like a hero from a story.”

He only shrugged, his gaze turning to Time Turner before back to Coco. “Perhaps I do.” Looking at the door, Sea More spoke lowly, “I would tell you what else I have planned, but I have no time for that. I must go and begin with a fresh start.” His head cocked slightly downward, sad that he must depart. “Again, I am sorry I failed… You deserve your friendship with the others, but fate does not want that right now. I know I shall see you again, yet I won’t know your face. Remember mine until the day of peace comes, okay?”

“Okay.”

Having nothing else to say, Sea More went to the door and changed into his previous pony form before opening it.

“Wait!” Platinum exclaimed, but remained stationary. “Will Stitch be forgetting me?”

A smile grew on Sea More, turning to face the thestral. “Queen Chrysalis is forgetting Coco Pommel. That’s it.” The changeling quickly entered the hallway and closed the door with a loud slam; he didn’t want to see Platinum’s reaction.

Stone Necklace

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A mass of black was on the move as hundreds of bodies exited from the holes in the mountainside. The many buzzing of wings made it sound like a horrible swarm of angry insects were approaching. Sea More walked beside Fang, the two in silence as they came into view of the runway. The entire hive was massing as they stood around their queen. The two friends wondered to themselves if the others knew about the mass amnesia. They were about to find out.

Leaving his friend without a word, Fang buzzed his wings and landed beside Queen Chrysalis, knowing he was the only one allowed to be near her. He tried to look for his friend but had no sight of him; maybe for the better. The guard and queen stood for a while longer, making sure every changeling is gathered on the runway.

“I will admit, Inferno Fang...” Chrysalis’ voice was swallowed by the loud buzzing from the other changelings, but Fang heard her words. His ears twitched as she used his full name. “...it pains me to lose my memories about Coco Pommel.” Chrysalis looked down at her guard and smiled at him. “Let’s pray her life is prosperous without us.”

“Yes my queen,” Fang obediently replied. He smiled, but couldn’t shake the sadness from him. Eventually, Chrysalis saw that the entire hive was before her. Holding up her hoof, the changelings grew silent at the simple gesture, awaiting their queen’s words.

“My fellow changelings, I am pleased to announce that the love gathering at the Grand Galloping Gala was a success!” A roar of cheers, buzzing, and stomping erupted as the many bodies were glad to receive great news. “We no longer have to worry about a shortage of love for a very long time! Because of my friend, Coco Pommel, rations will be increased!” It filled Queen Chrysalis with glee to see her kin leap with joy, smiling at her words. In her peripheral, she could see Fang smiling, perhaps knowing he too was grateful for the generous mare.

Once again, Queen Chrysalis held up her hoof and the noise was quickly swallowed. “However, despite of Coco Pommel’s amazing generosity, we must forget about her.” The crowd could not help but mingle among themselves, wondering why their leader proclaimed such a thing. “I will not go into detail as to what happened on my end, but I will say this: Celestia refuses to give us happiness ever still. That fact alone has forced me to have me cast a mass amnesia on us all, so we may not be distracted by our goal: to take what Celestia loves. If you cared about Coco Pommel, then use this as fuel against the wretched alicorn who raises the sun. She wishes to not allow herself make peace with us because we are strange! She does not want a pony to take a liking to us! Celestia even insulted Coco Pommel when she sided with us!” Chrysalis saw her words reach her kind as each eye she could find was angry; a sight she needed to witness.

“It does sadden me, and maybe some of you to forget the one who gave us a chance so that we can feed ourselves. But when we strike, in one week, our hearts must not be conflicted on striking down Canterlot because of one pony. I even had Fang warn her about the attack, so she will have time to flee. And when we do capture Canterlot, THAT PRINCESS WILL RUE THE DAY SHE REFUSED OUR KINDNESS! SHE WANTS TO GIVE NO LOVE, WE WILL RETURN THE FAVOR!”

A loud eruption of insults, roars, and stomping burst forth from the crowd, angered with Celestia. Queen Chrysalis let them cry out in hatred, their support like music to her ears. She was not surprised to see her personal guard rile up the crowd, chanting a crewel phrase, “Extinguish the Sun.”

With their hot tempers cooled, Queen Chrysalis once more held her hoof and silenced the changelings. “One final thought before we forget about Miss Coco Pommel: I know that most of you, perhaps all are glad for her support. Let us hope that she has a prosperous life. Perhaps she may come to us once we have conquered Canterlot, perhaps the entire land of Equestria, remembering us. And maybe that day, we may all remember her love and care for us all…” Silence then reigned. No changeling made a sound, but nodded, acknowledging the pony’s generosity. “Now everychangeling, think about Coco Pommel. Think deep into your minds and imagine-”

“Wait!” A small voice squeaked among the crowd. Chrysalis looked around, wondering where the interrupter shouted from.

“Teething! Get back here!” A mare buzzed into the air, seeking out her child in the black sea of bodies. But before she could stop her daughter, Teethling lept into the empty circle. Her small body kicked up a small cloud of dust as she tripped onto the ground with a thud. But Teethling was able to gather herself and bowed before the queen.

“What is it dear child?” Chrysalis spoke calmly, her stare almost nice. Teethling shivered as she looked around with the many eyes on her.

“I- I don’t wanna forget about Coco!” Trembling, the child plopped her flank down on the hard ground and began to sob into her hooves. “I- I don’t wanna...” Her weeping gasps echoed around her as no changeling dared to make a sound.

Other children’s voices began to speak out. “Me neither!”

“She was so nice!”

“I wanna to remember the angel!”

Bitter weeping began to grow as Chrysalis heard the young changelings lament. “Teethling!” Teethling’s mother landed beside her and scolded her child. “Don’t you ever interrupt the queen!” Turning her attention back to Queen Chrysalis, the mare bowed her head, “F-forgive my child my queen! She does not no better…”

Teethling’s ears were pointed so far back, Chrysalis wondered if they were upside-down. But despite the intrusion of her speech, the queen was not angered with the child. “Do not worry, I am not upset with her. I understand her sadness and she does not deserve punishment.” Chrysalis blinked and her expression was more cold from before. “However, child, if you were older, you would have been punished for interrupting me. Remember that, okay?”

Teethling quickly nodded, intimidated by her queen’s stare. “Yes Queen Chrysalis.”

As her hard expression left her, the changeling frowned at Teethling and said, “I do not wish to forget Coco either. But we must.”

The child could not still her tongue. “No we don’t!” Teethling shook her head, her long hair swinging around, stinging her eyes as she didn’t blink. “I mean, what if Coco comes back and we attack her, thinking she is a liar? Who is going to remember her when she does?”

“Scar Splash will, my child.”

“But why can’t I as well?!” Even though her bangs were blocking her eyes, Chrysalis could see desperation in her. “I-if you let me remember Coco, I won’t talk about her until she comes back. Promise.”

“Yeah!”

“Please let us not forget!”

“Remember the angel!”

Many little voices rang out from the crowd, disturbing the changelings. Chrysalis had to think about Teethling’s words, wondering if letting the children remember Coco Pommel would cause trouble. It may do very little harm if she let the children hold onto the hope that they may see the generous mare once more. Perhaps it may influence the children to hate the princess for not allowing peace among ponies and changelings, having them stride toward a goal of dominating Canterlot.

Looking out to the crowd, the queen spoke loudly, “Children, those of you whom are younger than the teens, I wish to ask of you this: do you wish to remember Coco Pommel? If you do, come forth toward my inner circle! As for you parents of the younglings, I demand that you let them choose on their own. It is time they receive their first order.”

Within minutes, the small circle Queen Chrysalis had, was now filled with children both fillies and colts. The crowd had to compensate with the mass amount of children and had to make the circle larger.

“Scar!” the leader barked. From the mountainside, a small black body emerged from the hive and flew over to his queen.

“Yes my queen!” Scar buzzed over the sea of children, curious as to what was going on. Because he was ordered to remember Coco Pommel, Chrysalis had him stay out of range of her so that she may cast a mass amnesia without him forgetting.

“Take these children to the daycare. They will not be partaking in the mass amnesia.” Chrysalis made sure her voice was absolute, but that did not stop Scar from rebelling against the idea.

“My queen, I respect your choice, but these children should partake in the original plan anyways.”

Irritated, Queen Chrysalis looked at the children and spoke calmly, “Little ones, form a circle with a little bit of space for Scar here to land.” In unison, the younglings did as they were told. With the ground revealed, Scar began to descend; Chrysalis wanted to be sure she made him land. Taking control of his body, the queen jabbed her horn in Scar’s direction and lassoed him with telekinesis, swinging the changeling hard onto the ground. Scar bounced a little as he smacked against the hard stone floor. “If you respect my choice, then do not speak against it. After all, you are the one who suggested the mass amnesia in the first place. Even though you offered forth this plan, I get to change whatever I wish. One of the children here suggested that she should remember Coco Pommel; and I see no harm in the ones who choose to remember her. In fact, it may help motivate them into hating Celestia even more, just as you have.”

Instead of arguing with her, Scar replied with a grunt, “As you have ordered it, it shall be…” Believing he could stand, the changeling slowly began to move until he was up on all fours.

“Good.” Looking to the younglings with a serious stare, she spoke with authority, “Those of you who have chosen to remember Coco Pommel are going to be given your first order.” Every head before her nodded with understanding. “Before I tell you your first order, I want you all to know this: if I come to find out in the near future, that you have disobeyed my word, when the time of age comes, you will be punished just as you have seen Scar Splash has; maybe even worse.” Chrysalis paused and examined the children, making sure none of them were confused. Instead, each and every one of them were at full attention, which did not worry Queen Chrysalis one bit.

“Now, for your first order.” The children straightened themselves, turning their ears forward. “I order you children to not speak about Coco Pommel. Not to your parents, not to your friends, not to those who even remember her, and especially not to me. Understand?” The mass of children nodded. “The only time you can speak about her is if I ask who Coco Pommel is. She has to be present before you when I ask you the question. You can bring her forth to me so that I may ask who she is, but do not force her. It would be better if she does it on her own volition. And if she does choose to be our friend once more, you all can remind the hive of what she has done for us.” Again, the younglings nodded.

Her attention back on Scar, Queen Chrysalis leered at him. “Now I have an order for you…” He flinched at the mere sight of his leader’s sharp eyes. “If you try and force these children to not remember my dear friend and I come to find out…” Chrysalis then spoke low enough to where a few children would hear. “...your secret will be known to her…”

“Yes my queen,” Scar nodded instantly, then grunted in pain. He felt a bruise begin to form on his side, but kept his complaining inward.

***

Looking up at the sky, Chrysalis didn’t notice the thick clouds from before and saw that they were clumping together and darkening. Perhaps it was a necessary setting for what she was about to do. Glancing around, and with the children gone, the queen saw barely any younglings in the crowd of changelings. She wondered why some decided to stay behind, but did not wish to ask them.

“My queen,” Fang spoke, peering at his tall leader. “I just want to thank you for setting me out to find a dressmaker for you.”

The queen chuckled a bit before replying. “Sea More said you would be the better changeling for the job. I am honestly surprised he didn’t do it. Then again, you did find the perfect mare for the task I had for her.”

“Yeah,” Fang sighed. “May I ask one more thing before you carry out your spell.”

“What is it?” Chrysalis asked, her grin not fading.

“If- if we do end up conquering Canterlot and Coco Pommel becomes our ally, may I-”

“You have my permission to love her. But that is highly unlikely that such a reality will exist. You are going to be forgetting about her.” Chrysalis’ grin quickly left her before turning to the crowd. “Now my kin, I ask of you to think about Coco Pommel. Think deeply about what she has done for us. Remember her as much as you can before we all forget.”

Every eye before the queen closed, deep in thought; including Fang. Chrysalis saw her personal guard’s expression writhe with sadness, unable to hold back tears. She didn’t mind; she was beginning to sob as well.

A soft drop from the sky hit the queen’s shoulder as she lit her black horn with a bright-green aura. Chrysalis’ body lifted up from the ground as the magic she was casting dragged herself into the air. Now several feet into the air, Queen Chrysalis tucked her head downward and hid her face within her forearms. In a quick motion, the changeling swung her arms toward the ground and her head into the air as a pulse of magic swept over the crowd. Chrysalis shut her eyes as she held onto each and every memory of Coco Pommel.

She began to feel more drops of rain as the magic radiated from her horn. Chrysalis started to weep bitterly as Coco’s face began to fade away, like water turning a scroll’s ink into a mess of black. And just like the scroll’s now indecipherable message, the pony’s face was now blank; her body and mane only remaining. Chrysalis wanted to scream as she tried to remember, but couldn’t. The more she tried to think about her friend, more and more memories began to wash away. The rain ran down Chrysalis’ body, chilling the saddened mare. Soon, the body of Coco Pommel began to disappear. Chrysalis now wondered who helped her these last two weeks, obtaining the mass amount of love she desperately needed; but just the thought of a pony helping the hive quickly left her mind.

Thinking hard, Chrysalis pondered to herself, curious if she was friends with the one who aided her and the hive, whoever that was.

Then… the queen now asked herself… Why am I crying? Trying to remember, Queen Chrysalis thought long and hard, but could not find the answer. Perhaps it was for the better.

***

Sea More and Fang walked down the hallway, trying to piece together their blurry memories together. Two weeks have gone by, and yet so little was remembered. “I swear, all I remember about the gala was how I mingled among several ponies. I remember a few names like… Platinum and Velvet. Stitch was there too with another- no was she with somepony?”

“Hmm… Queen Chrysalis did say that the amnesia spell was going to confuse us, so don’t think too hard about it.” Sea More shrugged as he and Fang marched down to the ration storage. The two were pleased to know that their intake of love was now going to increase by a large amount and were ready to feed themselves. Or at least, Sea More is going to fill himself. For some reason, Fang was not hungry; in fact, he was quite full and did not remember why.

As they rounded a corner, the two saw Scar come their way. From what Fang could conjure up, he knows that Scar was the one responsible for the mass amnesia, but could not remember why. Sea More recalls the same thoughts as his friend, yet he too cannot find Scar’s intentions. What Sea More does know is that he was angry with the changeling for his suggestion to the queen.

Scar Splash stopped in their path and the two friends paused their movement. “Having a hard time remembering the last few days?” the lone changeling asked with a grin.

“Buzz off,” Sea More muttered. “I know you are the reason why we all got the amnesia treatment, but you got off free. Be lucky I won’t be prying any info out of you. The queen says it is best that we move on from the forgotten past.”

“Do not worry, you do not want to remember the past. Something bad happened to this hive, so I gave the queen the suggestion to forget all about her.” Scar suddenly froze at what he said.

“Her?” Fang asked with a creased brow.

In a quick motion, Scar Splash pushed past Sea More and Fang, leaving their view as he turned down a hall.

“If I am to guess,” Sea More hummed suspiciously, “I think we may have forgotten about someone. Maybe a pony, perhaps?”

***

The night was very cold and the back alleys of Saddleback held a blanket of fog. Scatterbug held tight onto his unicorn form, along with the bucket of oranges his horn levitated.

He was there in Saddleback to continue his mission to obtain love, despite there being a huge supply of food back at the hive. Scatterbug did not mind his task, but he did mind the fact that his employer was wondering why he was not eating any food that was offered to him.

On top of that, the fog was also something Scatterbug minded. There was always something unnerving about the dense cloud that made the changeling dread being in the white blanket of mist.

Just give these oranges to Autumn Harvest and you can head back to the hive. Easy.

The sound of a can rang out and Scatterbug looked around to see if anypony was there. Yes it was a can, but who could be wanting to be lurking in the alley at this time of hour?

Seeing a can of tomatoes roll solely on it’s own, Scatterbug let out a sigh and laughed to himself.

Turning around, a figure was suddenly present and startled the disguised changeling. A black cloak covered the one before him, a heavy breath escaping the hood.

“Very sorry, hehe…” Scatterbug chuckled, watching the figure’s breath wisp up in a visible vapor before it vanished. “You umm… came out of nowhere.”

Scatterbug tried to appear friendly, but felt something was off about the figure; there was no love coming from him. The town Saddleback was known to have very friendly ponies about. However, this… individual was behaving very shady.

In a cold whisper, the figure speaks, “‘Is he friend or is he foe’? the pony wonders.” A shiver crawls down the changeling’s spine, worried if he was found out. Scatterbug began to curse at himself, knowing earlier that day he took off his disguise when he was high up in the orange fields. He only did it to scare off the boss’ stubborn dog. Thankfully, animals cannot talk, but a pony can, and Scatterbug felt he had to defend himself if it came down to it.

Wondering what the hooded stranger would do, he only stood still and stared into the black hood. “I can assure you, I am no friend. I am one, Tirik! And I am going to take what’s mine.”

Tirik widened his mouth, and Scatterbug suddenly felt his head being pulled toward the hooded freak. To his horror, the changeling saw a wisp of blue energy be sucked out of him and into the creatures horrible mouth.

With no strength left in him, Scatterbug crumpled to the ground. The bucket of oranges be levitated fell with a loud thud that was sure to be heard by somepony. He tried to transform so that he could fly away, but could not. All the changeling could do was shiver in fear as he witnessed Tirik’s body grow. A sickening sound of bone and flesh expanding turned Scatterbug’s stomach.

Tirik let out an evil cackle before trudging away into the innocent town.

***

Chrysalis stood with a grin on her face as she looked at the rations supplies. The room was a massive hollow place, tall as it was wide. Before her, row upon row were large black glass spheres resting in their own small squared space. Each row rose tall, twenty cubical containers high, four containers wide, and forty containers long.

Walking down a row, a changeling with a checklist followed at the leader’s heels. Chrysalis stopped in front of a storage unit and lifted the sphere from its holder. A heart that resembled the image of love resonated within the container as beautiful color glowed from the inside. It radiated brightly, only leaving very little black visible in the sphere.

“How wonderful,” Chrysalis grinned seeing her reflection off of the shiny surface. “I don’t remember how, what, or who helped us gain this much love in just one evening, but I am happy with our rations.” Turning to the changeling behind her, she asked, “Do you agree?”

“Of course my queen!” Buzz buzzed his wings with glee, glad to see his queen in such good spirits. “And if my calculations are correct…” He pushed his large spectacles back onto his snout before resuming. A large, sinister grin reached for his eyes. “...we will have plenty of love to raid Canterlot and have rations to spare, that is if we somehow fail. And knowing your almighty power and leadership, we shall crush Canterlot with an iron hoof and have no fear of failure!”

An evil cackle erupted from Queen Chrysalis, her voice echoing off the walls and ceiling. “Right you are!” With her horrible laugh out of her system, a serious expression fell on her face. “By the way, has your brother Scatterbug returned yet? There have been reports of him missing and a search party has been undergoing since this morning.”

Four days have passed since the changeling was supposed to report back to the hive, but there has been no sign of him. Normally Chrysalis begins to worry when a changeling is missing after a week passes by; and by the the time a week rolls around, said missing changeling turns up for the most part; mostly due to trying to find a way back to the hive without being suspicious. However, with the invasion day on the approach, the queen does not want the rest of Equestria to be aware of their presence, nor plan.

“No my queen... “ Buzz muttered with a shake of his head. “But I praise your efforts to seek him out.” He bowed his head, took his queen’s hoof, and kissed it respectfully.

Turning her attention to the sphere she levitated, Queen Chrysalis touched her horn on the surface. A green aura lit from her jagged horn and began to suck the love from the glass dry. The heart from within began to twist and tremble before cracking, then breaking in half before fading away. The light from within soon faded, and the blackness conquered the container. Licking her lips, the tall changeling hummed with delight as the flavor was sweet and filling. It has been so long since she was able to take a filled love container and and stuff herself without having to worry about taking too much.

To amuse herself, Chrysalis made the sphere float around her, thinking about Buzz’s brother’s M.I.A. “Do not worry, we will find-”

“My queen! We found Scatterbug!”

“Him…” At the entrance of the ration’s storage room, three figures stood before the queen; one of which looked to be a pony. Buzz couldn’t control himself and dropped his clipboard, running to his relative. Buzz remembers how his brother showed him what he would look like when Scatterbug was about to head off to Saddleback.

As he approached, Buzz noticed how weak his brother looked. His eyes were like glass, as if blind and the cutie mark he bore was gone. The two changelings wore nervous faces, not sure what to make of what happened to him. “Scatterbug, brother, what happened?”

Scatterbug was about to reply when he saw his queen approach him. When the changeling went to bow, he fell over from weakness. Chrysalis glared at the two guards who helped Scatterbug onto his hooves. “Report! What has happened to him?” The queen peered into the black sphere she still held, her reflection showing a slightly nervous leader.

“It- it’s not just what has happened to me my queen…” Scatterbug muttered, using every ounce of strength to not appear weak to Chrysalis. “...it is what has happened to the entire town of Saddleback…” Buzz tried to approach, but his brother held up a hoof and shook his head.

“Then what has happened..?” Somehow, fear gripped at Chrysalis’ heart. She cannot remember the feeling, nor does she want to now.

“Four nights ago, a… creature who called himself Tirik-” The sphere Chrysalis held onto fell to the floor with a horrible crash; the name alone shook the queen to the core. Everychangeling before her took a few steps back and gazed upon their leader. Buzz, Saddleback, the two guards, and anychangeling that could see her were in awe, never knowing what their queen would look like if she was ever afraid.

Chrysalis’ eyes were wide as she shook like an unstoppable earthquake. Doing her best to regain her composure, she asked Saddleback, “Did he- steal your ability to use magic?” He nodded, still in as much shock as the others as Scatterbug saw the fear on his leader’s face. “Did he rob the other ponies at Saddleback of their powers?”

“Yes. Not only were unicorns affected, but pegasi and earth ponies were as well. The pegasi lost their ability to fly and earth ponies had no strength.” Chrysalis could see and understand the weakness in Scatterbug’s eyes. “As for me, I have lost the ability to change form and eat.” At once, Buzz broke into a sprint for the nearest sphere he could find and brought it over to his brother. Buzz did not have to ask his queen if he could feed Scatterbug; Chrysalis knew the pain of starvation and was not going to allow her kin to suffer the pain any longer. But she was worried if Scatterbug lost the ability to be fed as well, and if that was the case… then the presence of Tirik would be even more problematic.

Filling himself with love, Buzz pointed his horn at his brother and released a pink misty trail from his horn. Slowly, the love drifted into Scatterbug’s open mouth. The hungry changeling took a deep breath, sucking in as much food as he can. With all the love dispensed, Buzz went to his relative's side and asked, “Are you filled?”

Scatterbug let out a heavy sigh and smiled. “Yes brother.” Even Chrysalis smiled at the fact that her kin was able to eat; however the expression was short lived.

“You two!” she ordered at the the guards. “Send out a distress signal at once! Call every changeling back to the hive! And summon my best to my chambers. We need to call off the invasion and plan to hibernate until Tirik has been dealt with…”

The two did not question their queen’s words and went to fulfil the task.

***

Alongside fear, Chrysalis could not remember the last time she had to call a state of emergency. As she sat on her throne alongside with Fang at her right and Snackrifice to her left, Sea More, Scar Splash, Bitter Tongue, and several others stood before their queen.

“As you know, we are now in a state of emergency. However, you may be asking yourself, ‘what is the threat that has fallen upon the hive?’” Chrysalis had to pause, making sure she was reaching her kin. They all wore grave expressions, almost not wanting to hear the news that awaited them. All except for Bitter Tongue’s child who slept peacefully in her arms.

“Unfortunately, this threat is not exclusively for us, but for the entire land of Equestria.” Chrysalis had to swallow a lump in her throat before resuming. “The threat is Tirik, a horrible creature who can literally suck the magic out of ponies. And as he consumes their power, he grows stronger.” Just the simple example she gave the changelings made them glance at each other with worry. Even Sea More and Scar Splash stared at each other with uncertainty; for once, the two didn’t have looks of hatred as their eyes locked.

“Tirik has claimed one of our own, preventing him to even eat without being fed by another changeling.” Chrysalis shook her head. “We cannot allow him to claim another one of our own. And as much as it pains me, we must call off the raid of Canterlot and hide until the threat is gone…”

Sea More had to sigh lightly, pleased to hear the city was not going to be under siege once more. Otherwise, he would have to warn the white-stone town of another changeling attack. But that fact was not enough to make him feel at ease. A creature who can suck the magic out of ponies?! Sea More was glad his queen did not describe his looks, or Tirik’s vivid description would haunt the changeling.

“My queen,” Snack spoke, his eyes looking to his brother. “Why not have Fang and I eliminate him? Give us the power to do so and it shall be done.” Part of him wanted to remove the threat and ease the stress from his queen, but most of it was because Snack was angered with the fact that rations are going to be shortened after four days of them being increased.

“I appreciate the brave offer,” Chrysalis said to the brave changeling, but shook her head in disagreement. “But Tirik is a foe beyond your power. If you and your brother encounter him and he stops the two of you, not only will he steal your magic but the love you wield as well.” Chrysalis’ spine stiffened. “We cannot let him know of our location, nor presence. If he does find us, imagine what would happen if he found our ration supplies..?”

No changeling dared answer the rhetorical question; the thought alone was too haunting. “Then how do we tell the others?” Bitter Tongue asked. “How to we tell the children?” She clutched her little baby close to her as if he were nearby.

“We tell them as it is. And as much as it disgusts me to say this, I do hope Celestia has a plan to stop him…”

Sea More glanced at Scar Splash to see if he had any input for his queen, but didn’t see the changeling make any attempt.

“Must we sit idly by while a threat gets more and more powerful?” a channeling in decorated armor asked. “Surly someone should at least warn-”

“I am most certain that the ponies at Sattleback will alert the high authorities,” Chrysalis interjected. “Besides, it will take literally months, perhaps up to a year before he becomes a major threat to Equestria.” A huff of hot air escaped the queen’s nostrils. “And I am most certain the newest princess, Twilight Sparkle, will have the Elements of Harmony at her disposal, along with whatever magical powers she has gained becoming an alicorn.”

“And how are you so certain-” Scar now attempted to input but was cut short as well.

“That princess has done this land much good in the recent years. Defeating Nightmare Moon, returning Discord to stone and then somehow reforming him into a good creature, and how she literally destroyed the evil King Simbra.” Chrysalis chuckled a little. “Some friendship master, killing a king.” Shaking her head and her grin off her face, the queen resumed, “If there is one pony that I actually trust to stop him would be Twilight Sparkle.”

Sea More rose his hoof in order to gain attention from the queen. Her gaze fell on him, and soon, all eyes were focused on the changeling. “If you trust Twilight to stop Tirik, if we attack Canterlot before or after, wouldn't she be able to stop us as well, with or without the Elements of Harmony?”

He could see the anger in his queen’s eyes, but the question was necessary for all the changelings to know. After all, they were about to invade Canterlot before the Tirik threat surfaced.

Keeping her composure, and her act to cause harm upon the changeling to herself, Chrysalis replied, “You forget we were not defeated by the Elements of Harmony; it was Cadence and Shining Armor. Besides, I must remind the entire cast of changelings here that you were the one who tipped off Canterlot of our first invasion.”

Angry stares came from every changeling in the throne room except from Inferno Fang. But the intimidating eyes did not bother Sea More; he knew the consequences and remembered the pain he went through for it. Sea More could still feel the freezing water he was forced to sit in. At the time of his torture, Sea More wondered if hypothermia would claim his life. He knew, despite his one week of pain and cold, it was for the better of changeling kind and did what he felt was right.

“Be grateful I kept you alive…” were Chrysalis’ final words to him. Sea More knew exactly why: the promise Chrysalis made to his mother. When he was introduced to the hive, Sea More was of course a creature who cared about changelings and ponies. Chrysalis promised his mother that the two could visit, but on rare occasions. Another promise was to not kill him, no matter his stubbornness. With half the heart of a pony, Sea More was known to speak against his mother and queen at times he disagreed with them. His mother did give permission to punish Sea More, but not to the point of death.

Sea More knows Queen Chrysalis respects his mother for caretaking after her changeling husband has passed away in an accident. And for that, he was accepted into the hive, and his mother was now a neutral ally of the hive.

Sea More never talked much about his life in the hive to his mother. She didn't need to worry about how much he was disliked, nor know the torture he went through.

“To conclude this gathering…” Chrysalis observed her kin all listening intently. “...we will remain hidden until Tirik is dealt with. Rations will be slightly lower than before we had our love supply massively increase. Very rarely will we have a changeling leave to observe the whereabouts of Tirik. That is all. You all may leave now.”

In a collective silence, the changelings, aside from Fang and Snack who guarded her sides, left the throne room. Snack wore an angered expression, his teeth bared. “I hope Tirik does not come near. Otherwise, he will know what happens when he takes food away from me!”

“You will know helplessness if he gets a grip of your throat,” Chrysalis muttered to the changeling.

***

Coco stretched a bit before letting out a yawn as she sat at a soft seat in the back of the old coffee shop the mare once worked at. The front door opened and Steam Joe exclaimed, “Welcome! How may I help you?” The mare giggled at the manager’s over the top attitude she remembered.

A light-blue unicorn mare walked to the front counter and asked Steam Joe something. He then pointed over to Coco. “She is right over there, mam!”

Coco blushed as several customers looked at where he was pointing and did not want their attention aside from the one who had just entered. The unicorn briskly walked over to the earth pony and sat across from Coco.

“Forgive me for being late…” The made had to adjust her specs before mustering up a smile. “Work has gotten me more tangled than the knots I had in my mane this morning.”

“It's not a problem Star Fisher.” Coco waved a dismissive hoof at the teacher, knowing well how much a hoofful of children can be. After all, Coco did have an avalanche of changeling kids jump on her several months ago.

Star Fisher was a lovely looking mare, despite her being older than Coco. Her light-blue coat complimented well with the a pattern of dark and light-turquoise stripes in her mane. Star Fisher’s hair was in a cute bun and a star hairpin rested at the side of the bundle of hair.

“I am glad you are available to meet up with me. The last few days have been crazy, alongside that Tirik scare.” Coco let out a sigh, glad the tyrant was quickly dealt with. “I just got word back from Rarity saying she, Twilight, and her other friends were able to stop him.”

“Is that so?” Star Fisher smiled, giving the pony a wink. “You certainly know a lot of important ponies; first, another dressmaker who knows a princess, to you making a dress for a queen.”

Coco stared at her neglected expreso she had forgotten, it now cold. “Yeah, I do get around I suppose…” Her sad expression rested on the black surface of liquid as she began to remember the friends only she remembers.

Star Fisher saw her error and attempted to correct it. “Oh deary dear, I didn't mean to upset you…” She reached out a hoof to pat Coco on the shoulder. Coco allowed the motherly unicorn to show her kind affection and smiled, glad for her support.

“It’s fine.” Coco put on a fake smile which was enough to make Star Fisher believe it. “Speaking of…” The mare had to look around to make sure no wandering ears, nor eyes were in her direction. “...changelings…” Coco whispered lowly. Returning to her normal voice, she asked, “Have you gotten any word from Sea More?”

The mother’s ears folded back, answering Coco’s question before the words left Star Fisher’s mouth. “No… I am worried that it is him all over again…”

“Who’s- Oh! Right.” Coco nodded knowing exactly who “him” is. “Your ex-husband.”

Star Fisher had a hard time forcing the words out. “Yeah…”

Coco sighed, knowing there was not much she could do for the mother. She wanted to tell her that her past lover was still alive just to calm her nerves, but remembered Chrysalis’ words: If you tell her that he is alive, she will hunt him down… Perhaps it is better for Star Fisher to worry as a mother should for the time being.

***

Coco Pommel sat in her now better condo as she ran fabric through her sewing machine. The window was wide open and a nice breeze freshened out her stuffy estate. Now that she was back in Manehattan, Coco was able to find some work thanks to Suri’s hoof back in the door of the fashion industry. Her victory at the Grand Galloping Gala, along with her change of attitude, made Suri more reputable than before.

Despite the huge pay Coco received from Queen Chrysalis, she was not going to allow riches distract her from work. And even with her wealth, Coco only treated herself with the money she earned from recent commissions. Something in her gut told her to hold onto the riches until later. Maybe place some of them into an investment and have it build interest.

As Coco was halfway through with another line of thread when something by the window caught her eye. A ribbon of rainbows twisted and bent as it fluttered outside the window for a moment before drifting off into the sky. The sight caught her by surprise and found herself smiling by the spectacle of magic she had just witnessed. It reminded her of the rainbow spool she gave to Rarity as a nice gesture of her generosity. Coco’s mouth hung wide open, wondering if the colorful display of rainbows had something to do with her own generosity.

Suddenly, Coco felt something tug on her red bow from her sailor collar. To her surprise, the mare managed to sew her bow to the dress she was making.

Elsewhere in her condo, inside her bedroom was a note that was nicely framed and placed on the wall. The frame was in a simple, gilded holder that stood out from the various pictures Coco had. In very small writing, the note said:

Dear Coco Pommel,

I apologize for not being brave enough to face my friend and say my farewells. To be honest, I was afraid that my emotions would get the best of me and I would not be able to let you go. There are no hard feelings between us and I wish we could have left on better terms.

This I will say, I will go through with my attack on Canterlot. However, if something does get in the way and prevents just that, there are no guarantees we will see each other anytime soon. I’m sorry I cannot get over my hatred for Princess Celestia. And I am sorry for having to go through with my plan of forgetting all of your good deeds.

If I ever do return, please seek me out. Tell me everything I have forgotten. And hopefully, if I straighten out Celestia, there may be peace among changelings.

Don’t forget me…

Your best friend,
The Queen of Changelings, Queen Chrysalis.

***

First her hooves, then her legs, then her torso. Chrysalis hummed with delight as she sank into the hot water of the pool. All around her were changelings, young and old, cleaning themselves and enjoying the warm water that Fang had prepared. She sat at the center of the pool alone, pondering the last year’s events.

The influx of love from the gala, Tirik’s appearance and defeat, and the unearthing of Twilight Sparkle’s castle. It was quite a shock to the queen when all three happened so close to each other. However, since then, nothing much has happened. Even though the hive had a good amount of rations to spare for an invasion, Chrysalis could not find the hatred she wielded when the Grand Galloping Gala was concluded. She could remember how she spent time with the princess and actually enjoyed her presence. However, the queen could not recall why she was so angered with the princess. No matter how hard she tried, Chrysalis couldn’t get furious enough to want to go through with another siege.

Besides, the sudden appearance of both Tirik and then Twilight Sparkle’s castle made Chrysalis want to wait and see what may unfold from the crystal tree. Perhaps there was something more important that would come up, even if it has been a year now.

A buzzing in the air was heard and Chrysalis twitched her ear, but did nothing to open her eyes. Probably another changeling coming to enjoy the hot water. But the sound grew closer and closer to her, and soon, it was right by her head. Slowly, Queen Chrysalis opened her eyes to see a very nervous looking changeling, perhaps knowing she has bothered her leader.

“You better have a good explanation for being a mosquito in my ear…” Chrysalis muttered as her brows creased at the female changeling.

“F-f-forgive me, but I have d-dire n-n-news to tell you.” The quiver in the changeling’s throat interested the queen and she waited patiently for her to regain composure. “Cadence has- has ha-had a child.”

“I already know that… That is old news to me. Honestly, that child is not important to me.” Crysalis brought her hoof to her forehead and let out a sigh.

“B-but my report has something to d-do with with a child…”

“STOP WASTING MY TIME! TELL ME THE NEWS YOU WISH TO SHARE!” The loud boom from Chrysalis swallowed the noise from the pool and all attention was now on her.

The changeling had to land in the warm water to try and calm her shivering. “Th-there is a r-rumor that T-Twilight Sp-Sparkle has befriended a t-t-t-TIME traveler.”

Chrysalis’ anger slowly left her and was now interested in the report. “A time traveler you say?” It was a rumor, but just the mere thought of a pony wielding the power to travel time was nothing to turn away from. “But what does that have to do with a child as you have said earlier?”

Somehow, the changeling smiled despite the massive pressure she felt, knowing every changeling was looking at her. “W-w-well, we all know how much you l-lo-LOVE the memory of your daughter.”

“I do yes,” Chrysalis nodded.

“W-w-well, with the p-p-p-possibility of a ti-time traveler, w-w-would you want to go-go to the p-past and save B-Beauty Fly?” Because of the loud stammer the mare had, almost everychangeling heard what was said and they began to discuss among themselves.

As for the Queen of Changelings, she wore a face of shock and wore a half smile. Her mouth was slightly parted and almost wanted to leap from the waters in excitement. However, she held herself and looked at the mare before her.

“Thank you for the suggestion.” Chrysalis’ words were soft and the changeling bowed, glad she has pleased her queen. Slowly, Chrysalis rose from the pool and looked to the stars. “I am coming Beauty Fly. Mama is coming to save you.”

Among the crowd of changelings, Sea More sat quietly, pondering what was just fed to him and the others. I think Chrysalis is planning an attack. Perhaps I should warn Canterlot…

***

The cold bit at Beauty Fly’s small body as she sat further away from the fire her father created. She was grateful to have a simple brown blanket to keep the freezing air from hurting her anymore, but she wanted more.

“F-F-Father…” she chattered. Left Wing turned his attention toward his daughter and smiled.

“What is it dear?”

“C-can I come close to the f-fire?” It was a small flame inside the winter night, but it was enough to call her name. Left Wing transformed into a unicorn and pulled her cage up close to the fire; too close in fact. Sparks popped from the fire and started to sting at Beauty Fly’s body. “Maybe n-not too close…?” In a quick motion, her cage was pulled back to where it was before.

“You ask me a favor and I give, and then you say it was too close?” the father asked, shaking his head. “Don’t be like your mother. She is the reason you are in that cage to begin with…” Transforming back into an earth pony, Left Wing began to talk with the two who sat with him, preparing their next stop.

Tucking herself close to her body, Beauty Fly did her best to keep warm. Why father…? Why must you do this to me? She knew if she cried, the tears would freeze and hurt her eyes. So all she did was cover her entire body up with the blanket and started to breathe hot air in her little condensed area.

A faint light from the fire managed to peek through the blanket’s fold, illuminating the necklace the child wore. Beauty Fly looked at the front of it as she lay down. It looked to be a simple flat stone with a hole at the top. A chain ran through the small hole, holding onto the rock. However, the back of the stone was what she cared about. Flipping it over, Beauty Fly read the scratched words embedded into the rock. Don’t forget Rum it said. The word Rum was run off at the bottom of the rock, still confusing Beauty Fly on who “Rum” is.

But the child held it close as love began to leak out of it, feeding the hungry girl. I don’t know who Rum is… but I will try to remember…

...To be continued in Prequal I and Two Sided: When Reflection’s Speak...