> Ebony and Ivory: Growing up Changeling
>  by SGZone
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Growth Spurts
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chrysalis dipped into the jar of food once more and fed Ivory another big helping of carrots. The baby had become a bit more open to different foods since Chrysalis adopted them a little over a year ago. It was hard to believe that so much time had passed since then and how little has changed. While she was still Queen despite a vote in the council to remove her, a symbolic statement nothing more as it would have taken the entire council to vote to remove a queen, and was virtually impossible. Surprisingly Mirage was not one of the participants in the voting. While she did not vote to remove Chrysalis. She did not keep her disapproval quiet after the announcement. Calling Chrysalis a traitor several times among other things. The sentiment of the Hive had not changed much as well. The old guard still insulted her and called for her removal. She could feel their angry voices ring in her head through the Hive Mind. What was surprising was the low number of heavy dissenters and the high number of supporters. While her supporters did not match the dissenters by a long shot. The numbers were far off from Chrysalis’s prediction.

“Okay Ebony here comes the peas.” Chrysalis sung moving the spoon to Ebony. The baby opened his mouth but before the delicious mush could land, he closed it. Chrysalis moved her hand back, puzzled. Despite his size he was bottomless pit and rarely turned down food. He couldn't be full she had just started feeding. “Ebony are you okay? are you sick?” Chrysalis asked touching his forehead with the back of her hand. Ebony looked up at his mother his face scrunched up in thought.

Without warning Ebony disappeared with a pop and in flash of crimson light. Chrysalis stared at the spot where her child just vanished her hand still resting at the now empty space. She looked to her sisters who were just as shocked as her. They looked at each other, then at the chair, then to each other and back at the chair. Papillia was the first to break the stunned silence.

“What just happened!?” She shouted. Chrysalis sprung up  and began looking through the high chair like he had slipped out, but the baby was nowhere in the room.

“Where is my baby!” Chrysalis cried quickly panicking. “It looked like he teleported but how… he’s just a baby. It looked to be crimson but…” Chrysalis shot up and her eyes darted across the table to Alexandrae. “Alex did you…” Chrysalis began fear filling her heart.

“Whoa I know it was crimson but it wasn’t me. My horn would have been glowing Chrysalis.” Alex said raising her hands in defense.

“But then how did… your the only one with crimson aura magic.” Chrysalis started clenching her fists. She didn’t want to believe it but if Alex had done anything to Ebony. Sisterhood be damned nothing would save her. She stared daggers at Alexandrae. Though Alexandrae was not the kind of Changeling to back down. She stood up and glaring at Chrysalis. 

"I did not take your stupid gross little Equestrian, Chrysalis." She seethed. The two titans stared each other down ready to put the other through the wall if it came to it.

“Chryssie it wasn’t her! I was staring at Alex before it happened her horn never lit up.” Papilia intervened rising from her chair, but Chrysalis wasn't listening. Something had taken her child from her and Alex was the prime suspect. Priamus sunk back into her chair to get as far from the clash as possible. Arthemis on the other hand was silently staring a whole through Chrysalis. It was a concoction of anger, disappointment, and sorrow but it stronger than the most acidic acid. It was even able to burn through Chrysalis's steely resolve.

“But if not Alex then who… why?” As Chrysalis racked her brain around the mystery faint sharp cries could be heard. “Ebony!” Chrysalis cried taking flight and storming out the doors.

“Chrysalis wait!” She could hear Alexandrae yell from behind her but she didn’t have time to wait. Her baby was in danger, crying out for her. She had to find him along whoever teleported him. They will know the unbridled wrath of the Changeling Queen.

“For the love of the gods. Arthemis stay here with the babies.” Alexandrae ordered following after Chrysalis "Such a stupid woman it could be a trap for all she knows but no..." She continued to curse Chrysalis as she chased after her with Priamus and Papilla following.

As she left the meeting room the crying became clearer and was coming from upstairs. ‘Could it be my room?’ She thought. She flew up the stairs and towards her tower; as her sisters ran to catch up with her. As Chrysalis scaled the large tower her child’s cries became clearer and clearer. ‘What fool would take my child to my own room? Doesn’t matter I don’t mind painting my walls with their blood.’ Chrysalis growled. She skidded to a halt landing in front of her door. Ebony’s howls were definitely right behind it. Horn glowing a violent dark viridian she threw the door open ready for battle. However as Chrysalis charged through she was met with no one, except for Ebony crying in his crib. No kidnappers with him at knife point, no revolutionaries or Changelings from another Hive. Just Ebony’s head gently poking out from behind the crib’s railings. Chrysalis scanned the room. Her breathing heavy from the flying and rage but the room was truly empty. She lightly, cautiously tiptoed over to Ebony. As if one wrong move would blow the place sky high. She peeked over the railings. His face was red from the cries but unharmed. Upon seeing his mother again he stretched his arms out for her to take him into her security.

Chrysalis lifted and cradled him tightly into the comfort of her bosom. “Ebony how did you get here?” She asked looking down at Ebony who had stopped crying. He didn’t say anything instead holding up his stuffed owl. Which was generously given to him by his cousin Proteus on their birthday. As Chrysalis looked down at the stuffed owl things began to click but they made even less sense. “Ebony did you… teleport?” She asked. She had heard that Equestrian babies had naturally stronger magics than changelings, though, it took them much longer to control it. But for a baby just the age of two or so to teleport, that can’t be normal. Just as Chrysalis was about to head back down stairs. Ebony teleported once more from her arms in a flash of crimson.

“Oh gods not again.” Chrysalis muttered barging out the door and slamming into Alexandrae. Knocking them both down.

“Chrysalis slow down was Ebony in there we heard him stop crying.” Alexandrae asked getting up.

“No time Ebony’s teleporting we have to find him.” Chrysalis shot up and ran back down the stairs.

“Wait Chrysalis!” Alexandrae shouted but Chrysalis had disappeared down the staircase. “Stubborn bitch.” Alexandrae growled charging after her.

“Did she say Ebony was teleporting?” Papilia asked following Alexandrae.

“I really don’t want to run anymore.” Priamus muttered reluctantly following them

Dr. Hale was currently at his desk quietly reading over human anatomy book. Since Chrysalis had adopted the two humans he had taken it upon himself to study up on human biology and their growth process. It was a surprisingly spell-binding read. Humans were incredibly fascinating to the doctor. Apart of him wanted to leave the hive and disguise as a human doctor to learn more, but he knew his Queen needed him here. Then a flash of red light interrupted his concentration. Looking up he was stunned to see Prince Ebony sitting at the same bed they put him in when they arrived. They engaged in a tense staring contest with neither breaking eye contact.

“Ummm hi?” Dr. Hale said gently waving at the baby. Ebony continued to stare at him before teleporting in another pop of crimson light. Dr. Hale stared at the empty bed in utter confusion. “Huh.” He muttered getting up from his chair and over to his book shelf. “I believe I read something about this.” He murmured scanning the shelves. Eventually finding the required reading entitled: Burst Magic and Your Baby.

Chrysalis sped through the corridors of the castle looking for Ebony. “Okay if he is teleporting he can only be in places he’s been to in the castle.” She said heading to the nursery. Her mind was still racing that Ebony could teleport. It was a mix of pride and fear. On one hand the poor child could hurt himself teleporting everywhere; but at the same time she couldn’t help but be a little proud that he could pull off something like teleport at a young age. ‘It must mean he’s gifted at magic. Maybe he’s some kind of prodigy’ She giggled fantasizing about the possibilities.

Opening the door she was relieved to find her hunch was correct, and the young prince was sitting in the middle of the room. Pretending his owl was flying and crashing into a stuffed dragon. He giggled as he saw his mother holding up his toys for her to play with him.

“Sorry Ebony maybe later but you still need to eat.” Chrysalis said as her horn lit up to ensnare him in her magic, preventing any more teleportation. Ebony on the other hand was having too much fun and teleported once more with a giggle, just before she snatched him

“Okay now I’m getting tired of this.” Chrysalis sighed as her arms dropped to her sides in defeat.  She left the room to find him once more in the sprawling castle.

“Ebony!” She hollered speed-walking through the halls. While he could only teleport to known places it didn’t completely narrow down her search. As all he needed was a single image to teleport regardless of how familiar he was with it. Thankfully Chrysalis had yet shown him everything in his new home. For once her procrastination played into her advantage. She was heading back to the dining room hoping he had teleported back when she saw Dr. Hale just ahead of her at the atrium.

“Dr. Hale? Do you need something?” Chrysalis called flagging him down.

“Ah Queen Chrysalis. Looking for Prince Ebony?” He asked already knowing the answer.

“Yes how did you know?” Chrysalis responded raising her eyebrow.

“He popped up in my office not too long ago and I believe I know why if you’re curious.” He asked holding out the book he was holding.

“Maybe later I still need to find him” Chrysalis responded. Just as she said that the main doors were burst open with a Changeling guard running through.

“Queen Chrysalis! Prince Ebony is on the Royal Balcony!” He shouted kneeling before her. Chrysalis felt her heart stop and drop into her stomach. Faster than lightning she took off through the doors leaving the two in her dust. With her wings beating with the force of a typhoon she rounded the bend of the castle to the balcony. True to the guard’s word her precious prince was perched on the balcony still playing with his owl.

“Ebony stay right there, sweetie!” Chrysalis shouted flying up to him. Upon seeing his mother he was too excited to contain himself on the balcony. He scurried over to where his mother was flying from. His tiny body fitting perfectly through the bars of the balcony. His tiny hand fell down on open air and the poor prince dropped like a rock. Chrysalis’s heart froze over and plummet like her child from the balcony. Chrysalis’s horn lit up and grabbed the tumbling prince in her magic. Delicately she levitated the baby to her arms. Completely oblivious to his almost tragic accident and his mother’s heart attack. Ebony began to giggle as if it was a game of tag. Cradled in her arms but not out of her magic Chrysalis’s heart resumed its regular paces. Ebony’s body lit up in a crimson aura for another teleport.

“Oh no you don’t. No more teleporting. After that stunt you're grounded till you’re 20.” Chrysalis growled as the green hue around him brightened in strength. Stopping the baby’s magic discharge dead in it’s tracks. Ebony looked up at his mother’s angry face and his high pitched giggles increased. “Giving me heart attack is not funny you little brat.” She snarled wrinkling her nose in anger. Ebony was laughing so hard at his mother’s funny face he began to snort. “You’re not funny.” Chrysalis mumbled landing on the ground. Then heading back to the castle with her obnoxious teleporter.

As Chrysalis shut the doors behind her returning to Dr. Hale. An out of breath Alexandrae confronted her. “Chrysalis there you are we have a problem.” She huffed catching her breath.

“Don’t worry I got Ebony right here.” She responded holding him up.

“I’m not blind and I’m not talking about him. It’s Ivory.” She shot back. Chrysalis’s heart skipped a beat. ‘Ivory? Please no.’ She thought dread washing over her face.

“What about Ivory?” She asked fearing the answer.

“Come see for yourself.” Alexandrae said leading Chrysalis over to the meeting room and throwing open the door. Chrysalis’s jaw dropped to the floor.

Ivory’s hands were glowing a vibrant green. In the same magical aura was all the food, the silverware, and all the stuffed animals . They were all tumbling through the air around Ivory. Who was giggling at the performance he had orchestrated. On the far side of the room as far away as possible was Arthemis. Clutching her three hatchlings in her arms and cerulean magic.

"Ma!" Ivory squealed spinning around in his seat and waving. Sending the items to hang precariously over Chrysalis, Alexandrae, and Dr. Hale.

“Ivory, put everything down, gently. Remember? Gently.” Chrysalis said like she was a hostage negotiator. Unfortunately with no control over his magic. Ivory’s quiet movements sent the items hurtling all over the room. Coming dangerously close to hitting someone. Before Chrysalis could say another word a gray beam of light shot past her face striking the baby. Ivory closed his eyes and his whole body went limp sending his orchestra to crashing to the ground. Breaking the legs of Ebony’s chair, destroying the food. But leaving the silverware and stuffed animals unharmed.

Chrysalis twisted around to Dr. Hale whose horn was glowing in the same gray aura. Chrysalis was ready to tear the doctor’s head off and mount it to a wall. Her face was a clear indication of her deadly thoughts as Dr. Hale threw his hands up in a hurried defense.

“It was only a sleep spell he’s fine completely fine.” Dr. Hale spouted. Chrysalis stalked over to him like a tiger to it’s prey. With a fiery hiss she got right in Dr. Hale’s face. Her eyes glaring burning hot death into his eyes.

“Why did you think it was necessary to hit my child. My little Ivory with a spell of any kind?” She growled baring her teeth.

“I’m sorry I panicked.” He stated. “Besides the book recommended it in extreme situations.” He continued putting the book he was holding between them as a flimsy barrier.

“What book is this?” Chrysalis growled reading the title. “Burst Magic? Does this book explain what happened? She asked.

“Yes my Queen. these two were going through what is called magical outbursts. They are burst magic users, hence the name. They will have periods of extreme magic fluxes from time to time until they are about five years old. It recommended a spell to use if things ever got dangerous. It’s a completely harmless sleep spell he should wake up in thirty minutes. Here you should read it.” He stated handing Chrysalis the book.

“Really now? Well thank you for this information. But in the future if you ever hit one on my babies with a spell without my permission. I will do things to you can’t possibly imagine. I don’t care if you did help deliver me.” She growled ending her threat with another fiery hiss.

“Does this book say anything else about these magical outbursts? Like any long term effects?” She asked walking over to Ivory holding the book in her magic.

“I could not read the entire thing my Queen. I do recall it mentioning these bursts could be an indicator of their magic potential.” He responded wiping his fear sweat from his brow.

“Really well I’ll be sure to read it later tonight. But for now I’m going to put these two troublemakers to bed.” She said picking up Ivory as Ebony let out a big yawn in her arms. But not before one final word from Arthemis

“Troublemakers? But I thought you said you’re children were going to be perfect little angels.” Arthemis teased recalling their conversation from before she had adopted.

“Shut up Arthemis!” Chrysalis bit back leaving the room in a huff.

As she was walking out she stopped in front of Alexandrae. She was out of breath but her eyes were still smoldering fire from their previous fight. 

"Alex, I'm sorry, it was wrong of me to accuse you of kidnapping my child." She said. "You are my sister and despite your feelings about this I should have believed you. I hope you can forgive me." She continued. Alexandrae looked down at her sister mulling over her words and looking at her sorry eyes. Finally she gave a heavy sigh.

"Of course I do and I'm sorry too." She said. "I'm sorry that I made you think I would do something so horrible. While I certainly don't like any of this I said I would try and I clearly haven't been, so I'm sorry. Also for calling them gross, they're... precious." She struggled with the last word gritting her teeth into a forced smile. Chrysalis gave a small smile in return. It may have been horribly ungenuine but at least she was willing to try. She quickly pecked Alex on the lips in thanks before leaving the room with her children already asleep.
> Doctor's Visit.
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chrysalis gently stroked Ebony’s back as he and Ivory rested their heads on her lap. Their tiny bodies barely taking up the rest of the train seat. The royal family was traveling incognito to a small hamlet known as Ponyville. The reason for their covert travel plans was a doctor’s appointment. While Dr. Hale was doing his best to learn about humans he was not a real human doctor. And a couple of recent discoveries had Chrysalis worried for the two particularly Ebony. It had been a few weeks since they had discovered that the two were burst magic Equestrians. In reading the book Dr. Hale gave to her Chrysalis discovered some troubling information. While Ivory should be fine with an average level of mana. Ebony appears to be blessed with a much higher level of magic. However, this blessing is not without its curse and could be problematic for the boy growing up. As his body may be too small for his vast mana reserves. Possibly permanently damaging him; to the point that he could never use magic. Even if everything goes well. He’ll be growing up with severe cramps among other complications.



Sadly that wasn’t the only problem surrounding Ebony that she worried about. While Ivory had begun speaking basic words (mostly cup, ball and mama) Ebony was rarely spoke. When he did it was mostly babbles. He could say things like Ma and Ba but still not full words. 



The conductor’s voice booming over the intercom rudely interrupted her bit of reprieve. “Now arriving in Ponyville.” Chrysalis gently picked up her two sons and placed them into the baby carriage that Arthemis let her use. Chrysalis stretched out her stiff limbs. It had been a long train ride from the small trade outpost of Appleossa. She quickly tidied up her fake long black hair before departing from the train car. The Queen of the Changelings was disguised as a tan skinned equestrian woman with green eyes. Chrysalis sucked in the sights of the small town. There was a big red barn on the horizon. What appeared to be bakery in the shape of a gingerbread house. A hollowed out oak tree, and a building in the shape of a carousel. To name a few  that caught Chrysalis’s eye.



“What a quaint little town.” She said to herself strolling down the dirty main street. Contrary to popular belief the Queen of the Changelings did not mind getting a little dirty. “If I hadn’t adopted you. You both probably would have ended up here.” Chrysalis said leaning over the carriage. Ebony was still asleep from the train ride but Ivory was wide awake.



“Ball.” Ivory said pointing at Chrysalis. Chrysalis was unamused.



“It’s Mama, Ivory.” Chrysalis deadpanned. “Still though this isn’t a bad place to be. I’ve always enjoyed these rustic Equestrian towns. Been years since I’ve visited one though.” Chrysalis continued looking around at the many small vendors that flanked her. ‘Still even the most charming of hamlets can’t beat the castle.’ She smiled.



After a couple more blocks a large green plus sign signaled her destination. As she entered the door a bell chimed in for her arrival.



“Hello there may I help you?” The receptionist asked smiling at them.



“Hello my name is Phantasia. I’m here for a checkup for my two children.” Phantasia responded.



“Alright, have you scheduled an appointment?” She asked.



“No, we don’t have an appointment whenever you can get us in would be fine.” She stated.



“Oh okay please have a seat in the waiting room.” She requested waving them over to a couple of chairs.



“Thank you.” Phantasia said flashing a small smile and walking over. Sitting down she noticed that there was a small area filled with toys and other little play things. “Oh look you guys can go play over there.” Phantasia cooed lifting them up and out of their stroller and onto the floor. The still sleep Ebony stood for a moment but quickly fell on his bottom. The two looked at the woman in confusion.



“Look.” She reiterated pointing at the small playroom. The two turned around and their little eyes lit up at all the new things to play with.



“Yay!” Ivory cheered waddling over to the area as fast as his little legs could carry him. Ebony didn’t say anything but stood up and followed his brother.



“Why doesn’t Ebony say something?” Chrysalis muttered as the two investigated the area. Just as she said that the door opened and the bell signaled another customer.



“Hey there Golden Harvest and little Applejack!” Phantasia heard the receptionist coo.



“Howdy, Redheart. How goes the studying?” She heard a southern accent respond.



“You know difficult but I’m managing.” Redheart replied.



“Well keep on it. I’m sure you’ll be a nurse in no time.” Golden Harvest Chirped.



“Thanks Dr. Cobalt will be with you shortly if you could take a seat.” Phantasia looked over to the receptionist desk to get a look at this Golden Harvest. Phantasia’s eyes widened. She was impressed. The woman was built like an oak. Tall, strong and sturdy not even a hurricane could topple her. She had long golden hair that poured out of a brown stetson hat with bright green emerald eyes. She had bronze skin from the sun's rays with little white freckles on her face. In her arms was a little baby girl that was her spitting image. She had her mother’s golden hair, freckles, and emerald eyes. As green as Ivory’s.



“Howdy there my name is Golden Harvest.” She smiled walking over to Phantasia. “Mind if I sit here?” She asked pointing at the seat next to Phantasia.



“Oh by all means.” Phantasia replied scooting her chair a bit to make more room.



“Thank you kindly.” She replied plopping down on the empty chair. “Look AppleJack we gotta couple of new friends here today.” Golden Harvest then placed her daughter on the floor and gently nudged her to the two princes. AppleJack smiled and wobbled over to the play area. Phantasia eyed the girl as she walked over to her sons. Now that they were next to each other she saw just how much larger the girl was compared to them. She could easily accidentally hurt the two.



“So those two are yours I’m assumin’” Golden Harvest chirped breaking Phantasia’s thoughts.



“Oh yes, there names are Ivory and Ebony.” She replied pointing to each respectively.



“Ebony and Ivory, huh. Weird names but fitting I think.” She smiled. “So you’re here for your first ever check up with them huh?” Phantasia was a bit taken back.



‘How did she know?’ Phantasia thought eyeing the woman suspiciously catching Golden Harvest’s attention.



“Oh I’m sorry didn’t mean to spook ya. You look just like me when I came here with my first born.” Golden Harvest chuckled.



“Oh you mean AppleJack isn’t your oldest?” Phantasia asked.



“Nope, my eldest is my son Big Macintosh. Whoo I’ll tell ya when I came here I was sweating enough to fill my hat up.” She said slapping her knee.



“I see.”



The two sat in an uncomfortable silence content with watching the children play. Ebony was building up some blocks he found. While AppleJack and Ivory were throwing a ball between each other. AppleJack then pitched a fastball to Ivory.  He flailed his arms trying to catch the speedy projectile. Though he ended up batting the ball knocking over a portion of Ebony's structure. The mothers gasped a little afraid of the inevitable cries that were to follow. Ebony looked down at his toppled hard work but did not cry. Instead he grabbed the ball and threw it at a part of his building that was still standing. Ebony let out a shrill giggle as the blocks fell. AppleJack laughed too picking up on the new fun to be had.



The two mothers breathed a sigh of relief as it seems the mini crisis was averted.



“Whoo that was almost a catastrophe. That Ebony of yours is cooler than a cellar in winter.” Golden Harvest exclaimed.



“Yes I guess he is. I just wish he wasn’t so quiet.” Chrysalis responded.



“Quiet? You mean he doesn’t talk much?” Golden Harvest asked.



“Yes, I’m more than a little worried that something’s wrong with him.” She replied surprising herself that she was so forthcoming with information. Especially to an Equestrian.



“Ah don’t worry about it.” Golden Harvest sighed. “He’s probably just not much of a talker. I had the same thing happen with my Big Macintosh. He’s never said much but he’s as smart as they come.” Golden Harvest said reassuring the disguised queen. “Besides look at him does that look like a kid with a few screws loose?”



Chrysalis looked to her son as he began to restack the blocks. Thinking about it the farm woman had a point. While he never spoke the words he clearly understood them. Pointing at the right pictures in their book when prompted.



“I guess you're right. I just can’t help but worry about them. I would still love them no matter what but I’m still frightened of what that might mean. ” Chrysalis confessed. Golden Harvest put a reassuring hand on the woman’s shoulder and flashed her a knowing smile.



Chrysalis looked at Golden Harvest and smiled back at her. Returning her attention to the children playing.



“You have an older one. Does it ever get easier?” Chrysalis asked. “The worries, the fears, do they ever stop?”



“Can’t say they do. My Big Mac is about 6 years old now but I worry over him just the same as back then.” Golden Harvest replied wistfully.



“Thought so.” Chrysalis said gazing at her boys laughing along with Applejack.



“I have no idea what I’m doing.” Chrysalis sighed.



Golden Harvest burst out in rich southern laughter at Chrysalis’s admission.



“Yeah join the club.” Golden Harvest said wiping a tear from her eye. Chrysalis chuckled.



“So what are we doing then?”



“Our best I think. We teach ‘em what we know. Teach ‘em right and wrong. How to be kind stuff like that. But also let them make their own mistakes and grow into their own person. I guess. I don’t really know either.” She admitted. The two shared a chuckle at their realizations.



“I guess you’re right.” Chrysalis nodded. As she said that the doctor’s door swung open and a woman with big puffy purple hair stepped through. Clutching a small child with darker violet hair.



“Well thank you so much for everything Doctor. You’ve been an absolute dear.” She chimed in a midwestern accent thicker than a cheese wheel.



“It’s my pleasure Mrs. Crumbles.” The doctor replied “Just give Rarity the medicine and she should be feeling better in no time.” He then turned his attention to the baby in her arms. “As for you little lady you need to eat your vegetables when your mother tells you.” He smiled. However, she was clearly having none of his lies about vegetables and blew a raspberry in his face.



“Adorable.” The doctor muttered wiping off a bit of baby spit from his face.



“Rarity that is not how a lady behaves!” Her mother scolded accenting her words with a fierce finger wagging.



“That little hellion still giving you trouble Cookie?” Golden Harvest cheekily smiled.



“Oh shut up Golden. Rarity is not a hellion she’s just a little sick so she’s a little cranky. Right sweetie?” Cookie Crumbles cooed holding up her daughter. Rarity glared at her mother and turned her head in a huff.



“See? Sick and cranky.”



“Alright well hope she gets better. We still good for that date next saturday?” Golden Harvest asked.



“We should be providing Rarity is feeling better. She should be right doctor?” Cookie turned to the doctor.



“As long as she takes the medicine she’ll be healthy in a week.” He replied.



“Then I guess we're still on sweetheart.” Cookie said winking at Golden Harvest.



“See you then baby.” Golden winked back as Cookie took her leave.



“Something going on between you two?” Phantasia asked a wry smile forming on her face.



“Don’t you be getting any ideas too. We just like to joke about it. Considering people thought we were something before getting married. Some still do I think.” Golden harvest replied with a wink.



“I’m not surprised. I think you’d make an adorable couple.” Phantasia teased.



“Oh, shut up.”



“Alright, Golden Harvest if you’re ready I’ll see you now.” The doctor interrupeted gestruing for the woman to enter the room.



“Oh, tell you what Phantasia you can take my spot if you want.” Golden Harvest offered.



“No you go ahead. I’m sure you have some work to do after this being a farmer and all. I took the day off for this so I don’t mind waiting a little longer.” Phantasia kindly waving her off.



“Wow able to take the day off for an appointment you must have some gig.” Golden Harvest grinned picking up AppleJack. “Well it was a pleasure to meet you. Don’t be a stranger.” She chirped walking into the room as the door closed behind them.


“Well you two maybe we should come back here more often.” Chrysalis grinned. As her boys continued to stare at the closed door where their new friend disappeared behind.
> Air Travel.
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chrysalis stared out the window of the royal airship. Gazing upon the snow white landscape below. Despite preferring to work in secrecy Chrysalis’s hive did own a fleet of airships; along with a massive royal airship. It was mostly used for the occasional diplomatic meeting, along with visiting the many sub hives. This time it was being used for the latter. In order to help ease the tension that had swept across the hive and combat the ignorance towards humans. Chrysalis had devised a tour taking the twins to their many sub hives. To see how their vast empire functioned. Today they were heading for their largest sub hives in the frigid north the second largest in the empire. Living off of the love of the griffon capital place just outside the tundra, and since there was no non-changeling settlement near the icy landscape the hive grew to considerable size. 

Chrysalis looked across from her seat to her two children. Chrysalis still couldn’t believe how much they’d grown despite never going through a cocooning. It felt like only yesterday she was still carrying them in her arms. Now they were walking and talking all on their own. Ivory was busy marveling at the tiny landscape just like his mother. Amazed by how small the world looked from up above. Ebony on the other hand was staring blankly at the floor, stiff as a board. While the two were smitten by the airship upon seeing it they had different reactions when it flew. Ivory loved every second of it exploring the luxurious flying fortress, and getting lost more than a few times. He tried to get a view of the ground from every angle. Ebony, though, rarely left his seat usually dozing off and stayed as far away from the windows as possible. Chrysalis chalked this up to his fear of heights but realized it may be something else.

“Ebony are you okay darling?” Chrysalis asked. Her son only nodded his head in response. He was clearly not okay.

“Are you sure? Are you feeling weak? Should I get your medicine?” As predicted Ebony’s high mana reserves also weakened the poor boy. Sometimes leaving him bedridden for a whole day. The medicine helped but it was still an ordeal for the child.

“I’m fine mom. I’m not sick.” He replied gritting his teeth.

“Ebony, tell me what’s wrong.” She chided. The boy looked up at his mother with as little movement as possible.

“Okay I don’t feel good but it’s not my magic. It’s when I’m on the ship.” He whimpered.

“On the ship? Is it your fear of heights?” Chrysalis asked.

“No I don’t like it when it moves.” He replied.

“Motion sickness?” Chrysalis questioned. First time this had ever happened to him despite all their travels.

“Well hear why don’t you lie down on my lap.” Chrysalis offered patting her leg. The tiny boy hopped down from his seat and shuffled over to his mother. Laying his head down on his mother’s leg the smooth silk felt soothing on his skin. As his mother played with his tuff of black hair.

“You get sick from your own magic and now you get sick from just being on an airship? Is there anything that doesn’t make you sick?” Ivory teased. Ebony shot up from his resting place and glared at his brother.

“Shut up, I don’t get sick from everything!” Ebony squeaked in indignation.

“Yeah you do. Your always sick.” Ivory countered.

“Na uh.” Ebony rebutted.

“Yea huh.” Ivory refuted keeping to his case.

“Enough. Ivory don’t tease your brother because he gets sick. He can’t help it just like you can’t eat seafood.” Chrysalis scolded breaking up the intense argument. With their mother’s ruling final Ebony plopped his head back in his mother’s lap and closed his eyes. While Ivory stared out the window trying to hide his pout.

“Ebony scoot.” She whispered and the two shuffled a bit further down the bench. Clearing a bit of room between Chrysalis and the wall. “Ivory would you like to sit here?” Chrysalis offered patting the empty seat.

Ivory jumped from his seat and shot up to the open space next to his mother. He nestled into the spot laying his head on his mother as she wrapped her arm around him. For a while it was beyond peaceful. As Ebony and Ivory drifted off to sleep in the comfort of their doting mother it was picturesque. Chrysalis with such carefulness that she could not startle a mouse. Leaned down and planted a kiss on their adorable heads. With the hectic traveling and homegrown strife these little moments of peace were priceless. However, even the best things in life must come to an end. This moment ended by the ship violently shaking. Jolting Ebony and Ivory from their brief sleep. Ebony groaned in pain from the ships drastic movements.

“Fantastic.” Chrysalis growled. “Stay here you two I’ll go see what is happening.” She said lifting Ebony off of her lap and storming out of the cabin. Chrysalis had a menacing scowl on her face as she marched to the flight deck.

“There had better be a good reason for this. I swear if they were goofing around I’m throwing them overboard and they can fly to the hive.” She hissed. Throwing open the doors the flight crew spun around to face their angry queen. “Captain what was the meaning of these disturbances?” She ordered. The captain shot up from his seat and saluted his queen.
“I’m sorry my queen but we’re facing strong cold winds. It’s freezing our engines and the winds are blowing us around causing some turbulence.” He replied.

“Freezing our engines? Are we in any danger?” She asked her anger subsiding.

“No my queen it’s just a bit of frost not bad enough to ground us.” He informed.

“Very well. Though try to keep the ship steady as you can. My-I have a headache and all this shaking is not helping.” She said turning around.

“Yes my queen we will do our best.” He replied returning to his seat.

Without his mother’s warm lap Ebony made due with the padded seat and his hand with minimal success. As the ship once again tilted sharply to the right he groaned in pain.

“Hey do you need me to get something? Like a bucket?” Ivory offered. Ebony shook his head.
“I’m fine I don’t need anything.” He moaned. Ivory looked away from his brother abashedly.

“Hey I’m sorry for teasing you earlier.” Ivory said.

“It’s fine I’m sorry for always being sick so we can’t play together as much.” Ebony replied looking up at his brother.

“You don’t have to apologize. It’s like mom said you can’t help being sick.” Ivory said.

“Yeah but she also said that soon my magic won’t hurt me anymore then we can do everything together.” Ebony smiled.

“Yeah.” Ivory smiled back. Just then the airship shook again causing Ebony to double over in pain.

“Are you sure I shouldn’t get you a bucket or something?” Ivory asked.

“No. I don’t need anything. I just want mom.” Ebony whimpered.

“Don’t worry she’ll be back soon.” Ivory responded trying to comfort him though Ebony could only groan in response.

The brothers sat in silence for a while waiting for Chrysalis until Ebony decided to speak up.

“Actually Ivory until mom gets back can you rub my head, please.” Ebony pleaded. Ivory looked at Ebony in confusion before placing his hand in his hair and began stroking it.

“Like this?” Ivory asked stroking Ebony’s head as he nodded yes. Just then Chrysalis entered the room.

“We seem to have hit a bit of turbulence but- oh well isn’t this a sight.” She swooned as she laid her eyes on the two. “Thank you Ivory for being such a good brother.” She said patting him on the head and retaking her seat with Ebony happily snuggling into her lap. While Ivory cuddled into her side once again.

“Well as I was saying we’ve hit some strong winds but we’ll be fine to make it to the hive. Think you can hold on Ebony?” She asked.
Ebony smiled at his mother and nodded. However, a fierce rocking of the ship changed his tune. His eyes widened shock as his stomach twisted. He knew what was coming next but could not stop it. As Chrysalis looked at her son’s shocked eyes she too knew what was coming. Ebony clenched his teeth as a makeshift dam to stop the coming tide. Sadly, it could not hold and after a brief moment of holding the bile at bay the dam burst and spilled into Chrysalis’s lap.

Ivory shot back from his mother’s side as the vomit covered her lap. “I told you I should have gotten a bucket.” He stated.

“Shut up.” Ebony cried as he crawled from his mess. Chrysalis gave a deep weary sigh.

“I’ll go get a towel.” 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ebony groaned as the airship tilted once more.  Chrysalis ran her fingers through his thick black hair to soothe him as she had always done since he was a child. Running her fingers from his hair to his bearded jaw line.

‘Were going to have to get you a shave when we land.’ Chrysalis lamented rubbing a bit of beard hair between her fingers.

While one hand massaged his scalp the other scratched his back. A potent combination for getting him asleep she found over the years. As the ship took another errant tilt making him whimper once again. Chrysalis couldn’t help but chuckle. She thought back to that day now so long ago. When Ebony barely took up any space curled next to her. Now he took up almost all of it even with the new longer seat. She couldn’t help but smile in astonishment at the man that laid next to her. 

Tall, broad shoulders, toned muscles, proud chest, strong chin he was a prince in his prime. Nothing like that small child from all those years ago.  Yet no matter how big or strong he became air travel was still his Achilles heel. With traveling by sea being even worse. 

Just then the cabin door opened and in stepped Ivory. He too showed looked almost nothing like the boy from years ago. Except for his hair which was still a gorgeous platinum blond. Not darkening even, a little despite being told otherwise. He had his golden locks tied up in a ponytail keeping his long hair out of his face. Unlike Ebony who let his mane flow free. He also didn’t have a hint of facial hair never had much to his chagrin. 

He too was a prince in his prime, though, a bit smaller and lankier than his brother. 

“So how’s our patient doing? Is his wittle tummy still hurting?” He cooed standing over Ebony pursing his lips. His voice bright and strong like church bells. 

“Keep it up, we land in about two hours and you know I don’t forget.” Ebony growled through clenched teeth. His voice was like a cascade of boulders rolling on top of each other.

“Aww is someone a wittle grumpy? Does he need his nap?” Ivory swooned while Ebony tried to ignore him. “Well maybe he needs to be rocked.” He whispered and began to shake Ebony violently. 

Ebony sprang up from his mother’s lap glaring hellfire at Ivory and fiercely hissed at him. Though he knew Ebony wouldn’t do anything to him, yet. It was still made Ivory jump back a bit. Fortunately for him even that slight movement was enough to make Ebony’s queasy stomach do flips. So rather than follow up he laid back down in his mother’s lap confident Ivory got the message.

“Alright enough you two. You get older every year but I swear you two haven’t matured a day.” Chrysalis sighed.

“Ouch little harsh mom.” Ivory replied cracking a smile at her. But Chrysalis was having none of it and flashed him the look all mothers’ have for their children. Ivory wisely chose not to agitate the queen any further.

“Alright, sorry Ebony that last bit was little too far.” He said patting Ebony on the shoulder.

“Apology accepted but I’m still going to get back at you when we land.” Ebony replied closing his eyes. 

“Fair enough.” Ivory conceited. Taking his place on his mother’s other side and resting his feet on the old seat from their childhood. Ivory wrapped his arm around Chrysalis she nestled into his chest while he rested his head on hers. While they were still incredibly immature at times Chrysalis smiled. Comforted knowing no matter how old they get or how hectic their lives became. They would always be her little boys. 
> Courage
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ebony looked around at the desolate landscape before him. There was no sun, no moon, nor even sky the only light in this dark place was the fire raging around him. Smoke shrouded his vision and filled his lungs. He wanted to move he wanted to run but his legs were stuck in the ground. All around him in the smoke and the fire there were shadowed figures. Some of them ran and screamed while other shadows chased them and yelled. Clutching dark objects the angry shadows destroyed the others and surrounded the small child. Ebony wanted to scream he wanted to call for his mother to save him. But when he opened his mouth he couldn't even let out a squeak. The shadows raised their weapons above their heads and swung them down onto his head. As the weapons closed in on him he found his voice and shrieked. 

Ebony shot up from his bed in a cold sweat.  He frantically looked around his room. Assuring himself that the nightmare was over. 

"Did you have another nightmare?" Ivory asked looking up from his bed on his side of the room. 

"No." Ebony responded. Ivory looked at him incredulously. 

"Yes you did you woke me up with your whining." Ivory replied.

"I was not whining!" Ebony snapped back indignantly. 

"Call it what you want point is you woke me up with it." Ivory pointed out. Ebony's face turned hot pink with embarrassment. He pouted and turned toward the wall. Fighting back the angry tears that threatened to burst forth. 

'I am a prince for Crotalus's sake! I'm going to be king one day and mother said monarchs don't get scared. Yet here I am ready to pee the bed from his own nightmares.' He thought angrily about himself.

"Why don't you just tell mom what your dreaming about?" Ivory suggested. 

"I can take care of myself." Ebony replied grumpily. Ivory rolled his eyes at his stubborn brother. 

"Clearly you can't but don't take my advice." He sighed rolling over in his bed to try and get back to sleep. 

Ebony tried to return to sleep too. hoping for a better dream but every time he closed his eyes his fear kept his eyes wide open. After staring at the wall for almost an hour he got up to grab some milk to help him sleep. Creeping over to the door he gently cracked it open and slipped outside. Taking extra care to not let a single strand of light into the room. 

Ebony stalked through the halls of the castle looking for something to help him sleep or keep him awake. He couldn't go to his mother or his aunt Papilia as they were at Griffonstone. He didn't know exactly what for but his mother sounded furious about it. 

As he wandered the halls he spied a light further down the hall. Stopping he cocked his head to the side in confusion. 'Who could be up this late?' He pondered. Like a mouse he scurried down the hall to get a better look. Creeping around the corner he peeked inside. Sitting on a chair next to candlelight was his aunty Alexandrae. On the desk before her was a pile of papers stacked up to her chin. He remembered asking his mother what all those papers were.

"Dozens  of reasons for her to throw our chairs against the wall." She responded. He also recalled as she said that Alexandrae threw one of those chairs out of her office shattering it.

Though at the moment she was not in the throes of her own rage from her subordinates incompetence. Instead she was being cradled in the comforting embrace of sleep. Her head resting in her hand. 

Ebony remembered another piece of information this time provide by his aunt. He recalled her saying "if you two ever wake me up while I'm sleeping. You had better be on fire because if you're not, you will be." He shuddered at the memory. Aunt Alexandrae could be scarier than any monster when she wanted to be. Though she was only joking, right? Rather than risk finding out if she made good on her promises he turned to head back to his room. Though as he turned around his heart dropped at the sight of the dimly lit hallway. Which stretched before him seemingly to oblivion. Strange it seemed a lot brighter heading back the other way. 

'It's alright though it won't be too long I just have to head back down take left at the second hallway then a right then a left- I mean another right. No that doesn't make any sense. Wait did I have to go right down the first hallway instead?' As Ebony struggled to remember how he was to get back his brain could only come up with one answer. He had no idea. He turned back to his sleeping aunt thinking on the difficult situation. Brave the dangers of the castle and get lost possibly until morning and have to sleep on the cold floor. Or wake his draconic aunt. 
He twisted in place shifting from the dark hallway to Alexandrae a dozen times.

Though before he could make a decision Alexandrae sprang awake. "I got papers!" She shouted her head shooting up from her hand. She took a quick look around her office and sighed of relief when she realized it was all just a dream. Though when she looked back down she spotted Ebony peeping behind the door frame. 

"Ebony what are you doing up it's..." She looked around for her clock but it was lost in the clutter that made up her desk. "Well I don't know what time it is but it's too late for you to be up I know that. So why are you here kid?" She asked getting up and stretching her limbs. 

"Oh well I couldn't sleep so I went to get some warm milk and got distracted when I saw the light coming from in here." He responded.

"Couldn't sleep huh? So you had another nightmare." She surmised. Ebony didn't say a word but his defeated look said it all. 

"Alright you've been having a nightmare every week it seems but Chrysalis tells me you won't talk to her about them. You just ask for some warm milk then either bunk with her for the night or head back to your bed. So you're gonna tell me." Alexandrae ordered. Ebony continued to pout and stare at the floor. 

"Fine don't tell me and go back to bed." She stated moving to shut the door. 

"No!" Ebony cried trying to stop the door.

"Then spill. What has you so scared?" She asked. Ebony looked to his aunt's big green eyes. They were hard like ice and brimming with confidence. His mother told him and Ivory of her bravery as a soldier and general. Nothing could scare her. 

"Okay well, at first it was just a bunch of monsters but they didn't look like monsters they looked like changelings. They were tall and walked on two legs and I think carried weapons. But it's always too dark to tell. They were really angry and would shout at me. Then they-they would attack me then I wake up." He stuttered trying to not cry thinking of those monsters. "Then it got worse." 

"Worse? Worse how?" Alexandrae asked. Her gaze softening a bit from annoyance to slight worry.

"Well there was later fire and other monsters except they weren't mean monsters actually I think the other monsters would go around and-and ki-kill them." He whispered. Alexandrae's expression didn't change but a cold sweat swept over her body as shiver went down her spine. 

"Tonight was the worst one ever there was fire and smoke and my legs were in the ground and I couldn't yell. Then the monsters surrounded me and attacked me but I couldn't move and I wanted to yell for my mom but I couldn't yell and then I woke up." He blubbered on the verge of crying as the first tears fell down his face.

"Hey, hey, don't cry there's no need to cry. They're just dreams." Alexandrae said failing miserably at sounding comforting. Needles to say her words didn't work as Ebony began to cry softly.

"Oh why are you crying?" She muttered. 'Damnit Chrysalis of all the nights to leave me with them.'

"It's-it's because I'm a p-pr-prince and mom said princes have to be brave. But I'm too scared to be brave. I'll never be a good prince or king." He cried wiping the tears from his face with his hands.

"Oh is that it?" Alexandrae she exclaimed relieved it was such an easy solution. She proceeded to stifle a large yawn. "Look it's way too late to give you a lesson about this but whatever you think know about bravery, you're wrong." She said putting her hands on his shoulders. Ebony looked into his aunt's soft but confident eyes calming him. "I'm way too tired to talk to you more about bravery right now but I'll tell you in the morning okay?" Ebony wiped the tears from his eyes and nodded.

"Good now how about you head back to bed." She said standing up and giving him a confident smirk.

"Ok, but I kinda forget how to get back." He smiled blushing slightly abashedly. Alexandrae rolled her eyes and sighed. 

"Alright let's go." She said snuffing out the candle with her magic and shutting the door. 

"Um actually for tonight can I sleep with you aunty Alexandrae?" He asked looking up at her with big puppy dog eyes. Alexandrae stared down at him. "That way it'll be easier for you to give me that lesson." He reasoned grinning. Alexandrae squinted her eyes. 

"Fine, you're lucky that I'm tired Ebony. But this is the last night you sleep in your own bed from now on except for Love's Embrace day." She said stifling another yawn.  

She picked Ebony up and tucked him under arm like a bag. "Thanks, aunty I love you." He chirped. 

"Mm-hmm."

Alexandrae opened the door to her room and tossed him carefully onto her queen sized bed. Ebony nestled into the sheets and pulled the covers up to her neck while his aunt got ready. She took off her forest green uniform and went into the bathroom to finish up. 
Ebony sat up and looked around the room in wonder. Like he had just been given entrance to the candy factory. He had never seen Alexandrae's room. Well, he had never seen any of his aunt's rooms but Alexandrae's was even more special. She was very secretive rarely talking to them or anyone. He rarely saw her but Chrysalis said it was because she was a general and was very busy protecting the hive. She was like a superhero and this was her super secret hideout. 

Then the door of the bathroom swung open and Ebony laid back down as Alexandrae slid next to him. 

"Alright get to sleep I got a busy day to tomorrow." She sighed curling up and nestling into the covers. 

"Okay goodnight aunty, love you." Ebony cooed snuggling into Alexandrae like a kitten to its mother. Surprisingly rather than push him away as cat would to a overzealous puppy. Alexandrae wrapped her arm around the boy and pulled him into her even closer. Cuddling with him like a teddy bear.

"Love you too, Ebony." 

Alexandrae woke up the same like she did everyday at eight o'clock sharp but much more refreshed than usual. The sun's rays piercing through the curtains invading the room with warmth. Alexandrae gently pushed Ebony away from her careful not to wake him and sat up. After stretching out the sleep she turned back to her surprise nighttime companion.  Running her hand through his short choppy hair. She thought back when Chrysalis broke the news to them with these two in her arms. She felt a pang of embarrassment and remorse as she thought back on her actions. All that fuss over two children absolutely ridiculous for someone of her standing. Besides she had to admit they had grown to be rather adorable. 

While she was deep in the mush of nostalgia her door burst open and Priamus charged in. "Alex I can't find Ebony!" She shouted springing the mentioned boy awake and in a daze. 

"Oh found him." She said shifting back and forth between the two, perplexed. 

"He had a nightmare and slept with me last night." Alexandrae explained. 

"Oh well crisis averted." Priamus stated and awkwardly backing out of the room.

As the door closed behind the perplexed Priamus Alexandrae was reminded of her promise. "Okay Ebony want to know what bravery means?" Alexandrae asked. Ebony shook off his sleepy stupor and looked to his aunt bright eyed and bushy tailed. 

"Alright, first what do you think it means to be courageous or brave?" Alexandrae asked.

"Well it means to be very confident and not afraid of anything. Like you." Ebony said. Alexandrae fought hard to suppress her laughter. 

"Is that what you think? That I'm brave because I'm never scared?" Alexandrae asked. Ebony hesitantly nodded his head. 
"Hmm, well what if I told you every time I go into battle I'm afraid." Alexandrae said. Ebony looked at her dubiously. How could she lead or fight when she's scared?

"It's true each of those stories your mother told you. I was afraid pretty much the entire time." Alexandrae stated proudly. Ebony looked at her in a mix confusion and surprise. 

"But how?" Ebony asked more curious.

"Well bravery isn't about being never scared. It's working through your fear. It's okay to be afraid. Everyone gets scared sometimes. Though a good leader, a good king, pushes past that fear to lead their people. They don't let fear paralyze them they use fear push them forward. Understand? She asked. Ebony nervously nodded his head. "I once read somewhere that the only time a person can be brave is when they're afraid. That means staying in your room, in your bed and sleeping no matter what nightmares you may face. Got it?" She stated. This time Ebony gave a more resolute nod starting to understand. 

"I have another thing to tell you about courage and fear. This time how to get help with it." She said this time Ebony tilted his head, perplexed. Alexandrae continued. "Not every fear you can face on your own and sometimes you need help. There's no shame in that. Whenever your mother is in trouble and is unsure or scared. She comes to us. Either me or Arthemis or Papillia she gets help. Something you should have done a long time ago with Chrysalis. So along with facing your fears head on and moving past them on your own. Remember getting help from others is a great blessing. Just don't over use it." She smiled at the young prince. He looked down at the bed sheets letting her words sink in. He looked back up at her a confidence in his eyes that she had not seen before.

"Okay Aunty Alex I understand. Thanks. I'll be the best king ever." He stated proudly. Alexandrae felt a bit of remorse grip her heart but was careful not to show it. As she lied to the boy. 

"I'm sure you will be. Now let's go downstairs and eat." She continued shaking off the nagging feeling at the back of her mind. Picking him up and tucking him under her arm the duo went down to the meeting hall. But in the back of Alexandrae's mind her lie nagged at her. This could not go on. 
 



> Loves Embrace
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ebony stared at his fleet or what was left of it. All but one of his ships was destroyed his Battleship. His opponent was good first she took out his dirigible destroyer, then his artillery airship, even his gun blimp fell to her insidious forces. Her most recent victim was his air-carrier and while his battleship was still flying one more hit and it was finished. However, his opponent was not fairing much better it was a deadly battle for her as well. For every ship she took he took one of hers now she was left with only her gun blimp. He stared into the green serpent eyes of his adversary. They were cool and calm no matter how great the losses she remained unfazed. She stared into him like a cat would to a mouse waiting for it’s struggles to cease and the meal to begin.

“Well, Ebony make your move.” Chrysalis said with a wicked unnerving smile on her face that had been there the entire game.

“E7.” He stated. The two opponents looked at each other. Chrysalis looked down to her board.

“Miss.” She smiled even wider slowly placing the white peg on her board. Ebony’s heart sank he knew this was the end his battleship was holding on by a thread and she had zeroed in on it.

“A5.” She stated knowing full well the answer.

Hit.

Ebony placed the red peg on the last hole on his battleship. That was it. His fleet was destroyed. 

“So who won, Ebony?” She smiled sweetly at her son. If there’s one thing Chrysalis loved more than winning is hearing her opponent admit it. Even if that opponent was her own son. 

Ebony glared up at his mother. While she did win in terms of the game if this was a real battle this would have been a pyrrhic victory. She would have been able to do little else with only a gun blimp. Hardly anything to relish in and he was not about to indulge her. 

“It was more of a draw than a real victory.” He stated crossing his arms defiantly.

“Oh no my sweet boy that’s not how this works. Now who won?” She asked again tensing her body ready for pounce. But Ebony wouldn’t budge.
“It was a draw.” He squeaked boldly.

“Last chance Ebony. You can admit it the easy way or the hard way.” She said her smile growing wicked again. 

“Never!” He shouted in defiance backing away slowly. 

“Alright.” She sighed and with that she sprang from her position on the couch and snatched Ebony up. Putting him into gentle headlock. With her prey firmly in her grasp she began to pinch and pull his right cheek. Not enough to hurt but still unpleasant. 

“So who won?” Chrysalis asked but Ebony would not falter easily to her demands.

“It was close!” Ebony blubbered trying to free himself from her grip but to no avail. Chrysalis giggled.

“Now it is time to break you.” She laughed releasing his cheek. Ebony felt a cold chill run down his spine. He knew what was next. He desperately tried to free himself from her grasp but she was too strong. With her free hand she noogied the poor boy mercilessly. 

“Who won?” Chrysalis laughed. Ebony tried to hold strong against her torture but every man has a breaking point. Finally he couldn’t take it anymore. 

“You won, you won, you won.” He frantically spouted. 

“That’s what I thought.” With his admission of defeat she dropped the boy and patted him on the head. “Goodgame, Ebony.” She smiled and sitting back on the couch.

“Yes congratulations Chrysalis. Three cheers for our Queen’s triumph over a child, Huzzah!” Alexandrae shouted lifting her wine glass into the air. Her words dripping with sarcasm. 

“Huzzah!” She shouted raising her glass in the air again this time being joined by Papilia who was laying on her lap. 

“Huzzah!” They shouted once more this time all of Chrysalis’s sisters who were scattered about the room joined in. Laughing as they did so.

“Oh shut up all of you.” She stated sticking her nose up. 

“Of course. Last thing we want is to anger the great military commander, Chrysalis.” Alexandrae continued and throwing up a faux salute. Earning her a pillow to the face from Chrysalis. 

While this was going on Ebony walked over to the small group of Ivory and his cousins. 

“Why didn’t you just tell her she won. You know she’s not gonna rest until you did.” Ivory asked.

“It was close! All she had left was a stupid gun blimp hardly a ship.” Ebony snapped back sticking up his nose. 

“Okay what game should we play now that we’ve indulged Chrysalis’s inferiority complex. What game shall we play next?” Arthemis asked walking over to the cabinet. 

“Pictionary!” Papilia shouted. 

“If we’re doing Pictionary you and Priamus can’t be on the same team.” Alexandrae stated.

“Okay, that’s fair. I guess that is the only way you could stand a chance to win.” Papilia responded staring up at her smiling ever so sweetly. 

“You wanna go bitch?” Alexandrae growled. Papillia didn’t say anything but her cheshire grin was answer enough. 

“Language!” Arthemis called.

“Chrysalis! We are taking these two down.” She shouted falling perfectly into Papilia’s trap just like last year.

“Let’s do it!” Chrysalis exclaimed downing the last bit of wine and slamming it on the table. 

“Pictionary it is then.” Arthemis sighed. “Wanna be on a team Exadeus?” She asked. 

“Sure Mom.” The young changeling chirped. 

“Proteus?” Ebony asked his cousin.
“Okay.” She nodded.

“I guess that leaves me and Ivory.” Belus smiled to which Ivory nodded.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Hmm is it a tire swing?” Papillia asked looking at the couple of lines on the paper.

“Yep!” Priamus answered smiling. 

“How the fu- how did you get a tire swing from that!” Alexandrae shrieked bringing the picture up closer to her face. “You didn’t even draw a circle!” 

“I didn’t need a circle because there’s the tree and there’s the rope.” Papilia said pointing to the largest line and another one next to it that was connected to what was to be the branch.

“I swear you two have to be cheating.” Chrysalis huffed sinking into her chair. 

“At least I can make out what they were drawing. Unlike that chainsaw of yours.” Alex shot back. Alluding to the last drawing Chrysalis attempted. Which looked more like a man holding a large termite next to a woman with enormous hair than a chainsaw. 

“My chainsaw drawing was great you just didn’t get it.” Chrysalis stated. “Ebony look at this doesn’t this look like a chainsaw?” She asked holding the picture in question. He gulped nervously. 

“Yes of course mom I totally knew what it was.” He responded chuckling nervously. 

“Don’t ask him! Of course he’s going to say yes.” Alexandrae snapped. 

“Okay enough.” Arthemis asserted. “Well in an unsurprising turn of events the Papillia and Priamus remain Pictionary champs.” She pronounced. 

“Okay what’s next?” She asked. 

So they continued to play various games well into the night. Arthemis won a game of Trivial Pursuit, with Alexandrae right after her. While Ivory won at a game of Aggravation, followed by Ebony, and lastly Proteus. 

Though as the clock struck ten o’clock it was time for the games to end. 

“Alright everyone time for bed.” Chrysalis yawned rising from her seat followed by everyone else. They followed her to a room that is usually kept shut except for special occasions. Inside was nothing much other than a fireplace couple of chairs and one massive bed that took up almost the entire room. The special occasion this time? Loves Embrace day. 

“Okay everyone before we go to sleep gather around the fire and for the story King Danaus and Loves Embrace day.” Arthemis chirped taking her spot in the largest near the fireplace and using her magic to light it. Everyone took their spot as they did every year. Ebony and Ivory sat with their cousins in a circle around her. While the others sat in the open chairs around them. Once she got comfortable Arthemis began her long tale of this magical day.

“Loves Embrace day was started centuries ago by our ancestor King Danaus.” She started. “It was back when our empire had but one small Hive and before Equestria was even founded. Well, one winter was especially harsh even and with our tough skin changelings would die from the cold. Not only were the people freezing but they were starving as well. There just wasn’t a lot of love in the world to feed on. Partly due to the three bickering tribes to the north.” She sighed. Taking a deep breath she continued the story.

“One night a terrible blizzard threatened the hive. The winds were so fierce it would knock changelings down, shatter windows, and blow down doors. It was so cold it could freeze water in mid air. Indeed it looked to be the end of our hive.” She said accenting each verb. “But King Danaus had an idea. The reinforced doors and windows held firm against the mighty storm. So he ordered his guards to bring every changeling to the castle regardless of status. With every changeling inside he passed out blankets and when they ran out he had the banners and any other pieces of cloth torn down. But it still wasn’t enough. So he ordered every changeling to share what they had. To curl up with one another and keep each other warm. Sharing what love they had with those around them. Leading by example he settled down with a regular family with 5 hatchlings and others followed.” She continued a warm smile spread across her face.

“On that night the rich laid with the poor. The pacifists laid with the warriors. The progressives with the conservatives. Families who never met each other kept each other warm and fed. When they awoke the next morning they were greeted with the warmest sun they had ever felt, and they could feel a love in the air that wasn’t there before. To commemorate such a joyous morning the king ordered a celebration. So they danced ,they sang, they even exchanged gifts.” She beamed and each of the children became giddy at the parade tomorrow and gifts they were going to receive.

“Since that day when the weather grew cold changelings all over the empire spend the night with families and friends. Playing games, telling stories, giving gifts and when it was time for to sleep we would spend the night with each other. Like the changelings centuries ago.” She finished. 

“Alright everyone into the bed.” Arthemis smiled rising from her chair and snuffing the fire with her magic. 

Chrysalis was the first one in. Removing her dress she climbed into the covers in the middle of the massive bed. Ivory and Ebony followed her taking up their spots next to either side of her. Nestling into her warm embrace. Papilia and Priamus cuddled up with one another next to Ivory with Papilia laying a hand on his head. Arthemis meanwhile formed her own little pile with her three children. And with Alexandrae in between her and Ebony their family chain was complete. 

“Goodnight boys.” Chrysalis whispered licking each of their foreheads. 
> Power Pt. 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ivory stalked through the thick green brush of the royal gardens. A lone speck of green in the vast wasteland that surrounded their city. He examined his surroundings for his quarry. He then scanned the small tree line in front of him when he caught a glimpse of his prey. A small dark leg dangling just below the thick leaves. Licking his lips he carefully made his way to his destination. Careful to not let his target realize he had caught onto them. 

Unbeknownst to Ivory a pair of red eyes was carefully watching his movements. A bead of sweat fell down his cheek as Ivory brushed past his position. They were so close Ebony could have tapped him if he wanted to. Ivory crept up till he was about a couple meters from the trunk. Ivory contemplated his options as he stared up at the leg of his target. It looks like she hadn’t noticed his movements. He could keep sneaking up on her though if he was spotted she could easily escape or he could risk it all. He took a couple more steps to the trunk and made his decision. 

Breaking out into a sprint he rushed toward the tree like a madman. Bounding up the tree like a cat he reached up and tapped the ankle of the hiding girl above him. Jumping off the tree he shouted. “Got you Proteus!” He continued to sprint through the winding garden of King Danaus that was at the center. 

“Get back here. You little monkey!” Proteus exclaimed flying after her cousin. Ivory sprinted as fast as he could. Zigging and zagging through the flowerbeds, bushes, and hedges trying to lose his rapidly advancing cousin. He finally saw his base just ahead of him. With one final push he pumped his legs as fast as they could go and charged for the mighty statue. 

However, just before he could touch the statue a figure jutted into his path. He tried to stop but it was too late the two bodies slammed into each other. They were sent tumbling to the ground in opposite directions.

“Watch where you're going!” The stranger shouted getting off the ground. “Oh it’s you.” It growled looking down upon Ivory.

Ivory looked up to see another changeling about his age looking down upon him with seething eyes. 

“What do you want, Chasm?” Proteus hissed landing next to Ivory and helping him up. 

“I was taking a nice little walk when this thing jumped me.” He stated. 
“I didn’t jump you. it was an accident I was trying to reach the statue. We were playing hide and seek.” Ivory fired back. 

“Whatever. What are you doing out here anyway? I thought beasts should stay inside.” He spat. Ivory tried not to let his words hurt him but no matter what they still left their marks. Which stung like hell no matter how small they were. 

“He’s not a beast or an animal or a monster. He’s a human and your prince. You uncultured swine.” Proteus growled getting between the two. 

“What’s the difference? Humans are animals. They attack and kill us just for existing. He’s no different no matter what you want to believe.” He stated sneering down at Ivory. Causing him to shrink back. 

“No they aren’t and no he isn’t. There are some bad humans but not all of them.” Proteus seethed getting in Chasm’s face.

“Who told you that? Your mother? No she would never say that about humans. She probably hates them the most.” He sneered. “It was probably that aunt of yours. Our precious dimwitted queen.” He continued with a wicked smile. “She’s going to be the doom of this Hive just you watch. Our previous King and Queen must be rolling in their cocoons.” He sighed. 

This lit a fire in Ivory’s stomach. It was one thing to insult him but no one messes with family. But before he could respond a voice bellowed behind them. 

“You don’t talk about our mom like that!” Ebony ran over to where Ivory was.

“Oh great it’s the brother.” Chasm sighed. “At least you have green eyes like the rest of us.” He nodded to Ivory. “Unlike him he looks like a demon with those red things.” He sniffed. 

“Don’t insult my brother. Jerk!” Ivory barked in Chasm’s face. 

“Get away from me.” Chasm snarled easily pushing Ivory back due to his larger stature. 

Due to their second cocooning Chasm and their cousins were about two heads taller than the humans despite being about the same age. Unlike humans changelings cocoon themselves twice. Once to shed their larval form at age 5. Then at age 12 giving them a large growth spurt. This is so they can get to full size faster to fit into outside societies quicker. 

“Don’t push my brother!” Ebony bellowed shoving the bully back. However, even at full force Ebony could barely budge him. 

“I don’t know how such weaklings are able to beat a changeling.” He laughed throwing Ebony to ground. 

“Leave them alone!” Proteus lashed out socking the boy in the face and grabbing him from behind. 

“Get off of me!” He cried trying to shake her off. Seeing a moment of opportunity. Ivory lunged at Chasm trying to punch his exposed stomach. While his blow connected Chasm’s chitin skin did more harm to Ivory’s hand than the changeling. Ivory recoiled shaking his injured hand. Seeing an opportunity Chasm’s horn lit up and he unleashed a concussive wave knocking Proteus and Ivory down. 

“You little bastard! You dare touch me! I’m the son of Councilman Fissure. I don’t care if you are our “prince” you don’t belong here!” He roared kicking Ivory in the stomach. Ivory yelped in pain as the wind was knocked out of him. 

Ebony’s eyes widened in horror as he shook off the throw to see his brother get kicked around. First he was shocked then came the rage as Chasm kicked Ivory once more. His blood boiled as a righteous fury gripped and twisted his heart. Raising his hand he charged a concussive spell like his mother had taught him. He was gonna knock the wind out of him and send him flying. To get him away from Ivory so they could get help. 

Crimson energy swirled and twisted in his palm. Though as his brother was struck with another blow. His rage boiled over and the magic in his hand bristled and cracked. Once it was properly charged Ebony let his rage loose.

“Get away from Ivory!” Ebony screamed. The crimson energy arced through the sky. The shimmering crimson light drew chasm out of his assault but there was nothing he could do. The bolt hit it’s mark square in the changeling’s chest. 

Chasm let out a blood curdling scream and fell to the ground clutching his searing chest. Veridian blood gushed through his clutched fist and pooling onto the ground. Ebony was too shocked to even register his own hand was burning. Ivory and Proteus looked over to the still screaming Chasm in dismay. 

“Prince Ebony, Prince Ivory, Royal Child Proteus. What happened here!” A voice called waking them out of their shock. Ebony looked up to see a royal guard standing over him. “Prince Eboy what happened to your hand?” He asked grabbing his arm and examining his hand. 

Ebony was still too shell shocked to respond his eyes returning to the shaking body of Chasm whose screams turned to whimpers. He meekly pointed to Chasm his throat too dry to speak. The guard looked over to where his prince was pointing and put the pieces together. 

“You there check on him! The rest of you check on the royal family!” He ordered as a couple of other guards rushed over. “Now Prince Ebony please tell me what hap-” 

“What is the meaning of this!” A gruff voice bellowed. Everyone turned around to the source. It was a tall top heavy but well built changeling. He thin wavy blue hair and narrow fierce eyes. 

“Councilman Fissure.” The guard stated and saluting. 

“Is that my son!” He roared charging past the guard and to his whimpering son. 

“What happened Chasm?” He whispered placing a soft hand on his son’s shoulder. “Is he all right!” He barked at the guard attending to Chasm. 

“Well it doesn’t look life threatening but I wouldn’t say he’s fine.” The guard responded gently moving Chasm’s hand and surrounding the wound in his magic.

“How did this happen?” He asked though as he looked across to Ebony having his seared hand taken care of. The pieces clicked together.

“So it was you. You little demon. You attacked my son!” He roared stomping over to him but the guard stopped him from getting close. “Get out of my way! That little monster attacked my son!” He barked trying to push past the guard. But a spear pointed to the head changed his tune. 

“With all due respect Councilman Fissure I need you to step away from the prince.” The guard warned. 

“You’ll protect him but what about my son. This boy clearly attacked him and I demand justice!” He roared. 

“Your stupid son started it!” Ivory spat fed up with Fissure’s accusations. He tried to stand up but fell back clutching his side were Chasm kicked him. 

“Don’t you lie to me boy! My son would never hurt anyone.” He spat. “Unless he was provoked.” 

“We didn’t do anything!” Proteus fired at him. “He shoved Ivory first!” She continued.

“Enough! I may be a councilman but I was once a colonel!” He shouted approaching the guard. “Now get out of my way.” He warned. Thankfully for Ebony the royal guards were completely loyal to the royal family. Regardless of the race of that family. 

“I cannot do that. Now please stand down before things escalate.” The guard ordered readying his spear. 

“You think you can fight me boy!” He bellowed. “Now get out of my way before things get ugly.” He growled his horn flashing angrily. He was right things were about to get ugly but not in the way Fissure thought.

Fearing the destruction that was to come next the royal children and the guards took a step back from the councilman. Then another, then another, then another and when they felt they were at safe distance, they took another few steps back.

Fissure was surprised by their reactions. He didn’t think he would scare them that badly. Perhaps he still had that intimidating presence from his service after all. No matter what his wife said. Though as he stared into the frightened eyes of those around him. He realized something they were not staring at him. Their eyes were slightly off to be looking right at him. No, they were looking at something behind him. 

That’s when Fissure felt it. A frightening cold presence had washed over the garden and the epicenter was standing right behind him. Turning his head slowly he came face to face with a sight that made his blood cold. It was Queen Chrysalis and she was not pleased.
The magic that was around his horn was snuffed out by the Queen’s icy presence. She stared down upon him with eyes that could cut through steel. A chill ran up and down his spine freezing him in place. 

“Councilman Fissure.” She breathed. 

Que-Queen Chrysalis.” He stuttered. Taking a second he regained his composure to continue. “Well it’s a good thing you’re here. Maybe you can deal out some proper justice. That tyrant of yours assaulted my son.” Pointing an accusatory finger to Ebony. 

Chrysalis’s lip curled in a silent rage at his foul and accusatory language. But she did not respond. Instead she calmly walked over to the silent body of Chasm, and quickly examined the wound. It wasn’t serious and had already began to heal nicely from the little healing magic used.

“You there. Why did you stop healing him?” She asked the cowering guard.

“Oh um sorry my queen.” He spurted rushing back over to Chasm and patching up the body.

“Well now that you’ve seen the damage how do you intend to deal with this, my queen.” He asked but Chrysalis paid him no mind instead she turned her attention to Ebony. The guards magic healing his burned hand. 

“Ebony what happened here?” She asked sternly. The prince shuffled in front of his mother. He shyly looked up into her cold eyes petrifying him. His mother rarely got this angry but when she did it was the scariest thing ever. A raised eyebrow from his mother told him to get on with it. 

“Well we were playing hide and seek and Ivory and Proteus started chasing each other. Then I don’t know what happened next.” He stated. 

“Ivory accidentally ran into Chasm while I was chasing him. Then Chasm started calling Ivory names. Like monster.” Proteus interrupted. She could see her aunt’s rage flare when she said that word. “Then we started yelling at him to go away that’s when Ebony showed up.”

“Well then Chasm insulted you. Then he called Ebony a demon because of his eyes. So I yelled at him to stop and then he shoved me to the ground.” Ivory spoke up holding his side. Chrysalis didn’t respond and returned her attention to Ebony. Who began to whimper. He looked at her with wet eyes and continue.

“Well after he pushed Ivory I tried to push back but I wasn’t strong enough so he picked me up and threw me to the ground. Then Proteus punched him and grabbed him from behind him so Ivory punched him in the stomach but it didn’t do anything.” He muttered. 
“Then Chasm used a spell knocking everyone down. Then he- then he started kicking and stomping on Ivory!” Ebony blubbered. “I didn’t mean to hurt him it was just a concussive spell like you taught me. I-I don’t know went wrong. I’m sorry mom.” Ebony whimpered. Chrysalis pulled her crying son into her arms. 

“Shh it’s okay just relax I’ll take it from here, Thank you.” She cooed rubbing his head. She then walked over to Ivory and lifted up his shirt. The large bruises on his chest and stomach made her blood boil.

“Well Fissure it seems my children’s story holds water. Anything else you wish to say?” Chrysalis asked.

"Well while the evidence does support their story we still aren’t positive who started it. After all we haven’t heard my son’s side of the story.” He stated.

“Fair enough.” She agreed striding to Chasm and shooing the guard away. Her horn lit up and her own magic surrounded the injury. Chrysalis’s magic made short work of the superficial wound almost completely healing it. Once the wound was sufficiently healed Chrysalis began gently shaking the boy coaxing him awake. 

Chasm eyes fluttered open and shot open at the sight of his queen. “Qu-Queen Crysalis, what is happening?” He asked. Though as he came to consciousness the pain in his chest came back. He groaned and clutched it. 

“Chasm before my guards take you to the hospital to get that properly healed. Tell me who started this fight.” She ordered. Chasm looked to the three royalty then to his father. 

“I’m sorry Queen Chrysalis, but it was your own son, Prince Ivory. He shoved me and then to defend myself I pushed back but then they all ganged upon me and gave me this.” He stated. Chrysalis bore into the boy’s eyes with her glare but he did not break. He shrunk back and averted her gaze but kept his mouth shut. Finally Chrysalis relented and stepped away from him. 
“Guards take him to the hospital.” she ordered two guards saluted and took off with Chasm between them. 

“Well there you have it. I think we know who was being truthful here. I trust you’ll punish your children appropriately, my queen.” Fissure chirped. “I know a being a parent can be hard especially when you’re raising two little devils but-” Before Fissure could finish Chrysalis spun around and struck the man in the face with the back of her hand. 

“I have heard enough!” She snarled. Marching onto the councilman her frigid eyes giving way to an inferno. “You have accused my children, insulted them behind my back, and then you had the nerve to insult not only my parenting but my sons right in front of me!” She rumbled. “For these transgressions against me and my family I challenge you to a duel!” She boomed. 
> Power Pt 2.
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Everyone stared stunned, wide-eyed and slack jawed at the Chrysalis’s actions. Rarely in the history of the entire hive had a monarch instigated a duel. Usually it was the other way around. As anyone can challenge the monarch for rule in combat. Though few were brave enough or foolish enough to try. Councilman Fissure touched his struck cheek bewildered.

“The stakes are as follows: if I win you must give your seat on the council to a successor of your choice; if you win you get my crown.” She stated. 

If their audience was shocked before they were breathless now. Especially Councilman Fissure whose heart had stopped from the shock and anticipation.

“Well Fissure will you run from my challenge or will you accept?” She asked crossing her arms under her breasts and stepping forward. Her foot planting just between his legs invading his personal space ever so slightly. 

Fissure stared up into her domineering eyes. He could turn it down. Sure some may question his bravery but she’s the queen, only a fool would try. However, the tantalizing idea of becoming king was keeping him in from running. The nonchalant eyebrow raise from Chrysalis was what he needed to take the jump. 

“I accept your challenge.” He replied. 

“Excellent we will meet in the old colosseum in two hours. Prepare yourself.” She responded turning around. “Ebony, Ivory, Proteus. Let’s go.” She ordered. The three quickly scurried behind her and followed her out of the gardens and to the castle.

There was an uncomfortable silence in the air as the group walked strolled through. The twins mindlessly followed their mother but were petrified by guilt to do much else. What if she lost the crown to Fissure it would have been all their fault. Then their mother stopped and the three came to a dead halt. Chrysalis slowly turned her eyes ice cold as they were before. She slowly stepped over to Ebony. Ebony looked into his mother’s frigid eyes using every ounce of energy to not shake like a leaf or weep before her. 

“Ebony let me see your hand.” She said. Ebony did as he was told and shakily showed his hand to his mother. Like he was about to touch a very unhappy and possibly hungry tiger. His burns had mostly all healed from the guards magic. Though there was still some crimson red in places and stung like rope burn. Chrysalis gently took his hand and wrapped the remaining burns in her veridian magic. With his mother so close and with that icy stare apparently gone Ebony dared to speak. 

“Um mom I’m sorry.” He whispered. 

“Sorry? Sorry for what?” She asked still focusing on the wound. 
“Well because of what we did. You might lose your crown. Everything you worked for.” He whispered. He expected her to get angry and yell at them. He expected her to say she shouldn’t have adopted them in the first place. Though he did not expect her to burst out laughing.

“Ebony do you honestly think I would have staked everything unless I was at least 90% confident I would win?” She giggled. As her magic evaporated from the now fully healed hand. 

“Wait you’re not mad at us?” Ivory asked. 

“Why do I have any reason to be mad at you? All you did was defend yourselves. I am furious at  that blockhead Fissure, though.” She muttered. The three of them breathed a silent sigh of relief as their bodies thawed. 

“I am concerned with you though Ebony.” She continued. “So correct me if I’m wrong but you tried to use the concussive spell but your rage at Chasm turned it into something else, a bolt spell of some sort.” She affirmed. Ebony gave a crestfallen nodded.

“I’m sorry, mom.” He muttered. 

“You have nothing to be sorry about. It’s my fault. I thought our training was enough but I was wrong.” She conceded. “You’re not a changeling, you’re not even like your brother. In comparison to a normal changeling your magic potential and power is monstrous.” She explained. Chrysalis didn’t see it but at the mention of his magic being monstrous Ebony winced. “You need more training to control your magic. If you were a bit stronger you might have killed Chasm. You might have even injured Ivory. So from now on you will be meeting with me and Alexandrae everyday of every week.” She continued. 

“Yes mother.” Ebony replied with a disheartened look to the floor.

“Ebony, look at me.” Chrysalis cooed tilting his head up with her finger. “This is not a punishment. This is to help you or else you may horribly injure yourself or others one day.” She expressed. Ebony nodded looking a little better.

“Alright now you three go find your Aunt Alexandrae what is happening. I need to prepare.” She smiled before leaving the atrium. 

“Oh and Ebony remember this while watching. I will be furious the entire time.” With a wink she left the three.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ebony looked down upon the massive colosseum from his vantage point in the royal booth at the top of the structure. While the days of changeling vs changeling gladiatorial combat are left in the history books. The massive colosseum stayed standing and was well maintained. Now it was used for various events and spectacles. Such as sports, festivals, and any other excuse to use the beautiful building. Even though the duel had been accepted only a few hours ago the stadium was already packed with excited changelings. While those that couldn’t find seats fluttered overhead. Some were there to watch a good duel while many were there to root for their champion. Their reasons for selecting their fighter varied. Political opponents of Chrysalis rooted for Fissure on the slim chance he could take the crown and usher in a more conservative rule. While others simply placed bets on the underdog councilman. Their mother had her share of fans as well. Though most were confident in her victory they hoped for her safety. 

Oddly enough while the crowd below them was electric the feeling in the booth was lethargic. Everyone was in attendance but it looked like they could have cared less. Arthemis was reading one of her books, Papilia was eating some popcorn, Priamus was doodling in her notebook and Alexandrae was catching up on some sleep. Needless to say the children were confused by their apathetic attitudes. Don’t they care? What if something went wrong or if she lost everything would change. Or maybe the adults knew something they didn’t. 

“Hey aunty Papilia. Is mom’s magic really strong?” Ivory asked. Papilia put a finger to her chin in thought. 

“Hmm, no, not really.” She answered. “Alexandrae’s magic is definitely stronger, I’m pretty sure Arthemis’s is too. Now that I think about it I’m pretty sure this Fissure’s magic might be stronger.” She responded. The boys’ hearts sank. 

“Wait if he might be stronger than my mom how come you’re all so calm?” Ebony yelped.

“Simple, Ebony, your mother might not be the strongest mage but she’s probably the smartest mage with her magic.” A now awake Alexandrae answered. “She has an uncanny ability to get into her enemy’s head. Then predict almost their every move and plan accordingly. She’s like a spider and he’s the fly that’s going to run right into her trap.”

Just then the gates across the dusty field opened and Fissure walked out from it. He was clad in old steel armor scratched and worn from years of battle. A single long sword clung to his side. Changelings cheered and jeered as he strode out to the middle of the field. The gates below them opened next and Chrysalis entered the battlefield. Though you wouldn’t be able to guess it from looking at her. She was wearing the same dark green dress from before rather than any kind of armor. In fact the only thing that had changed was the removal of her high heels and jewlery. She also wielded no weapon confusing her sons. 

“Umm did she forget a weapon or…” Ivory started. 

“Relax, trust your mother she knows what she’s doing.” Yawned Alexandrae. 

“Okay…” Ivory muttered.

The two combatants stared each other down waiting for the other to make the first move. Chrysalis was the first to answer. 

Her horn lit up and a ball of green energy jetted into the sky. Coming to a stop just overhead. Fissure drew his sword eyeing the glowing ball ready to counter. Though as he stared at the glowing orb the world around him turned green. Reflexively he brought his sword up just barely blocking a bolt from Chrysalis. Though the second his eyes left the orb it exploded raining shards of energy down upon the field. Fissure quickly raised a shield above him with his magic. The shards bounced harmlessly off the blue translucent shield. 

Fissure growled as the last of the shards fell. Raising his sword it was wrapped in his cerulean magic. Fissure swung his magic enveloped blade upward. A blue geyser erupted forth streaking across the field towards Chrysalis. While powerful it was slow and easy for the queen to sidestep. As she stepped a much faster horizontal slash neared her neck. Lighting up her magic she crafted a small shield around her throat. Cutting the attack in half. The now divided spell continued slamming into the high walls of the arena. Cutting into the stone.

The children in the booth were awe struck they had never seen spells cast like this before. Something stirred within Ebony. Watching them fight like this made his stomach twist and his heart burn.

Chrysalis responded by firing off two arrows of emerald magic. The two bolts rocketed through the air at alarming speed. Fissure knew he might block one of them but the other would surely strike him. Seeing no other option and with the agility of sliding stone block he dodged to his left. Right onto Chrysalis’s trap. The second his heavy foot stomped onto the dirt a brilliant light erupted from the ground. Piercing upward it speared into the councilman’s side breaking his armor.

‘How the hell did she do that?’ He pondered clutching his bleeding side.. ‘When could she have placed down any traps? Before the match or…’ Then it clicked. Looking around he realized he was trapped. ‘That spell that rained down on us was a trick. She turned this field into an active landmine zone.’ He realized

“I see you’ve figured out what happened, Fissure?” Chrysalis asked with a haughty smirk. Fissure growled and used his magic to stitch up his wound. “I suggest you surrender now before things get worse for you.”

“Not on your life my Queen. Do you honestly think you're the first one to try and trap me like this?” He smirked. Raising his sword to his face he charged a another spell. His cerulean magic enveloped and spiraled around the sword. 

Taking her moment Chrysalis shelled the stationary changeling with bolt after bolt. But while the first few bolts chipped at his armor the remaining ones bounced harmlessly off the heavy plate.

“Damn I was hoping that land mine spell would have convinced him to surrender. Perhaps I underestimated him a tad. Oh well.” She huffed ending her assault. 

Finally Fissure’s spell was complete. Raising his long sword high above his head he plunged it into the hard earth. A blue shock wave radiated out from Fissure setting off all the mines it came in contact with and stopping just shy of Chrysalis. The multiple landmines going off created a blinding light that enveloped the arena. Fissure raised his arm to cover his eyes from the blinding light. As he did so another bolt from pierced through the blinding veil narrowly missing Fissure. Several other bolts pierced through each one barely missing their target. As the lights faded Fissure was greeted to a worn out Chrysalis huffing for air. Fissure was too shocked to respond at first. For here was their mighty queen tired and low on magic. While he certainly had taken a beating he was still had power and stamina to spare. As he slowly began to realize that he had actually done the impossible a great big wicked smile grew on his face. He began fantasizing what he would do as king how he would right all the wrongs she had done. Starting with banishing those sons of hers.

Careful to not let the moment slip from he raised his sword for the final blow. Except he couldn’t. He tried to raise his arm but he couldn’t. He tried to move his legs but he couldn’t. It was like his whole body was bound. Turning around the delightful thoughts of kingship that had just danced in his head. Were crushed by the weight of despair. Behind him were five green orbs each one had a tendril that latched onto his limbs and one on his horn. His heart sunk as he grasped what had happened. 

‘Damnit she got me again. Those bolts were another trap and she got me all over again.’ He thought bitterly. 

He tried desperately to raise his sword arm one last time but it was no use. The tendrils had him trapped. They then twisted his arm causing him to drop his sword and pushed his arms behind his back. The other chains yanked his legs from under him dropping him to his knees, and the last pulled on his horn back. Forcing him to watch as Chrysalis slowly strode towards him.

“I must say the tales of your exploits on the battlefield were not exaggerated.” Chrysalis smiled. “You were more trouble than I thought but not enough to best me, darling.” Chrysalis dragged her finger under his chin. 

“I have a proposition for you Fissure. If you get on your knees and apologize to my children and me for your transgressions I will let you retain your seat on the Council or you can honor our agreement and give it up now. Your choice.” Chrysalis offered. 

Fissure looked up at her. Playing out the two options before him. Then he started to laugh. 

“You really are a cruel Queen.” He smiled. “Even if I do take your offer I’ll lose my position later. Bowing to you or your sons is political and social suicide in my district.” He sighed.
“Perhaps, you can look at it as a lose-lose situation. Or you think of it as choosing between the past and the future.” Chrysalis responded. “Whether you or others like you like it or not Ebony and Ivory are my sons and nothing is going to change that. So you can either continue to fight against the future and lose your seat to your own ignorance. Or you can accept my offer and join the rest of the hive and possibly lose your seat to other’s ignorance.” She explained.

Fissure looked up at her and pondered her words. “Alright my queen I will take a look at this future of yours for as long as I can. Doesn’t mean I’ll agree with it but I’ll at least give a very small chance.” He sighed. “I will apologize.” 

Chrysalis turned to the booth and nodded. Without warning Papilia grabbed Ebony while Priamus picked up Ivory. The two fluttered down with their bounties to their sister’s side and dropping them. 

Ebony and Ivory looked up at their mother, confused. “Boys Councilman Fissure has something he wishes to say.” She said pushing them to the kneeling man. Letting go of his restraints the councilman stayed on his knees and looked at the two princes. 

“Prince Ebony, Prince Ivory and Queen Chrysalis. I am deeply sorry for my insulting words and wrongful accusations. I humbly ask your forgiveness.” He stated bowing his head to the floor. 

“Councilman Fissure you are forgiven.” Chrysalis responded. Ebony and Ivory said nothing at first unsure on if they even wanted to forgive him. His words still stung in their minds. But a sharp look and nod from their mother told them to follow suit. 

“Councilman Fissure we forgive you.” They said in unison.

Fissure rose to his and picked up his sword. “When my son is fit to leave the hospital I will have him apologize to you as well, my princes.” He said with another bow before leaving the arena. As Fissure entered the massive archway. Most of the crowd cheered while others lamented and groaned but refrained from any jeers. 

“Come boys.” Chrysalis smiled as her horn flashed dismantling the remaining land mines in the field. The family turned around and left the field through gateway on the other side of the stadium. 

“So boys. Do you understand why that happened?” Chrysalis asked as they walked down the tunnel. 

“No not really. I mean shouldn’t he be punished and lose his position?” Ivory asked. 

“Maybe, but you see Ivory by giving him the chance of redemption and forgiving him we have possibly changed a mind. He will not forget that we gave him a chance.” Chrysalis responded. “You see as leaders you will come across many foes and issues you cannot simply beat with violence. Racism, ignorance, xenophobia all of these are issues you especially will have to tangle.. All of these issues cannot be beaten through violence or combat. Remember only kindness can break the never ending spiral of unreasonable hatred.” She continued. “And that is what we did today. Hopefully by showing kindness to Councilman Fissure we have begun to break that cycle against non-changelings.”

Ebony and Ivory nodded to their mother’s words. Repeating them under their breath so they may not forget them. 

“By the way Ebony do you understand what I meant from before?” Chrysalis asked again. This time Ebony had more of an answer. 

“I think so. Even though you were furious it didn’t affect your spells or your casting. You stayed in control despite your anger. That’s what you want me to learn right?” Ebony asked.

“Very good, Ebony you were obviously paying close attention.” Chrysalis beamed. 

“Oh I was. Because if you said that my magic might be even stronger than I need to get better.” He stated a fire in his eye. “Because one day I want to be able to fight like you and be even more powerful.” He smiled.
> Diplomacy Pt 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ebony sat up straight as a board his heart pounding out of his chest  His stomach was twisted in knots and swaying left and right in time with the airship. He wanted desperately to curl up in the seat but was worried about messing up his royal finery even a little bit. The medicine he took for his motion sickness was not helping. Perhaps it was his nervousness that made his stomach uneasy because in less than an hour he was to meet the ruler of Equestria, Princess Celestia. His mother brought them along to get acquainted with the princess while they talked over a settlement near the Badlands. Seeing as soon they may be hammering out agreements on their own it was best to meet her. Chrysalis assured them that they had nothing to worry about. But it didn’t stop the princes from getting butterflies in their stomach over the encounter. After all first impressions are the most important and they wanted to give Celestia their best.

Ebony clenched his hand in his pocket to stop any involuntary shaking. He looked to his left and could see Ivory was just as nervous. His jaw clenched to keep his teeth from chattering except for a couple of shaky deep breaths. He looked across from him to his mother who was cool as ice. Her legs crossed reading from a book. She was wearing a dark green silk dress and had on the most makeup and jewelry the boys had ever seen her wear. Her hair was brushed back with her bangs brushed to the side almost covering up her right eye. The black crown of the changelings resting gracefully atop her head. 

As for the princes their royal garbs continued with the theme of their natural duality. Ebony’s was pitch black with veridian outlining. While Ivory’s was wearing a sterling alabaster white with golden outlining. The outer layer was silk but beneath was padded leather for protection. To complete their ensemble they each wore a cape draped over their right shoulder. That were held there by a silver clasp that had the crown edged into the metal. The capes matched the color of their outfits with their hive’s symbol embroidered onto them in red silk.

Chrysalis looked up from her book to her nervous sons and smiled. “Boys relax. I’ve known Celestia since about your age. She’s very kind. I wouldn’t have brought you two along if I didn’t trust her.” Chrysalis stated gently tapping each of them with her foot. 

“Yeah but she’s the ruler of Equestria we have to give her our best. What if we offend her and she declares war. Like salute her with our left hand instead of the right. Or step to her with the wrong foot."  Ivory chattered his nerves getting to him. "Like those Yakistanis that Aunty Papily talks about!" He exclaimed but Chyrsalis could only laugh. 

“Oh boys Celestia is nothing like them. She’s not going to declare war over something so trivial.” She smiled. “You both will be fine just remember what me and Papilia have been teaching you about proper introductions, proper etiquette, and table etiquette for dinner. Most of all though be respectful, Ebony." She denoted making Ebony blush. He had grown a bit rebellious as he got older. Challenging authority. He usually just wanted to understand the why of things, but would come off a bit disrespectful. "I’ll be handling all the messy details.” She stated. “Just relax but not too much. You’re still princes representing the hive so be on your best behavior.”

“Yes mother.” The two replied in unison. 

The seconds ticked into minutes until eventually the captain opened the door to their cabin.

“My queen we are beginning our descent into Canterlot.” He stated with quick salute.

“Thank you admiral Jetstream.” Chrysalis replied waving him away. “Come boys the view from above city is beautiful.” She said rising from her chair and out of the cabin with Ebony and Ivory close behind.

The moment Chrysalis opened the door to the outside. Ivory bounded over looking over the edge of the railing. With Ebony feebly trying to yank him back to the safety of their mother and the spacious walkway. While the rest of his family enthusiastically peered over the side of the mammoth airship to the capital below. Ebony took his time tip-toeing over to the railing and peeking over it’s side. Though when he gazed upon the Equestrian capital he was amazed and glad he took the risk. It wasn’t as big as the Capital Hive but it was so colorful. With so many different buildings clumped together. With varying heights and varying colors. It was like something out of a painting. Canterlot castle was just as beautiful as the city  it lorded over. With it’s pristine marble walls, lavender spirals and gold trimmings. He had to admit he was a bit envious of how colorful it all was. 

“Beautiful isn’t it boys?” Chrysalis asked.

“Yeah. When you said it was on a mountain I thought it would be smaller.” Ivory said leaning further over the railing.

“Indeed. It’s definitely not the biggest city in Equestria but still quite large given what they build it on.” Chrysalis replied. 

“Why did Princess Celestia decide to build the capital on a mountain?” Ebony asked.

“When I asked her she said it was to keep her citizens safe. Though, I could feel there was another motive but I decided not to pry.” She responded.

“I bet Aunt Alexandrae could take this place. Like when she took the Araneae central hive.” Ebony stated.

“Yeah but that involved her slipping a troupe in with a captain they captured before and opening all the gates to their tunnels.” Ivory retorted. “Canterlot is completely different.” 

“She would still be able to get it done.” Ebony stated proudly.

“If only you two paid as much attention to your other studies as you did to Alex's stories." Chrysalis uttered rubbing the bridge of her nose. “Yes well enough talk of sieges. Equestria is our friend and will be for a long time, right boys." she challenged.

“Right mom.” They both squeaked in unison smiling sheepishly. 

When the colossal black airship anchored into the port the Changeling royal family was welcomed with surprising fanfare. A red carpet was rolled out before them leading to a row of steps were a woman with rainbow hair and shining white garments stood. Flanking each side of the carpet was a row of guardsman. With polished gold armor they stood stoically their spears at their sides. The reason for the armed detail was obvious by the large clamoring crowd that had gathered. The twins looked on in awe of the spectacle they never expected so many people came to welcome them. They never received such a welcome from their subjects.

However as they strode down the steps with their mother just ahead of them. They realized this was not the crowd they thought it was. As they got closer they realized these guards were not part of the pageantry but protection. Their bodies were a dam holding the rushing crowd that threatened to burst forth.  As they looked around they saw a number of foul looks thrown their way. Sneers, venomous glares, snarls, dozens of eyes filled with anger and hate. Though, they could see more peaceful onlookers within the crowd. Reporters, cameramen, and other curious denizens that looked upon the family with wonder and respect. The force of animosity hurled their way was overwhelming.

“Disgusting why does Celestia deal with those bugs.” Ivory heard a voice mutter from within the crowd.

“Parasites!” Ebony heard a man shout.

“What’s with those two. How come they haven’t unglamored?” Someone pondered.

“Yeah that is strange.” Another voice concurred.

The boys realized that all eyes, both peaceful and damned, \ were now on them. 

“I thought we had runes so those bugs couldn’t hide themselves?” A woman gasped 

“What if they’ve found a way to overcome our runes!” A man alarmed

“Queen Chrysalis if I could have a word who are those two behind you?” A reporter asked squeezing her face through the crowd.

“They’re my sons isn’t it obvious?” Chrysalis deadpanned walking right past the woman not even giving her a sideways glance.

“If they’re your sons how come they haven’t transformed?” Another asked. 

“They’re Equestrians, like you. I adopted them.” She responded continuing her walk as more, eyes forward. 

“How did you come to adopt two Equestrians?” A question was hurled. 

“None of your business.” She responded ignoring the slew of other questions that were quickly thrown her way. Some of them accusations of kidnapping. 

Ivory was so distracted by the barrage of questions and accusations that he didn’t realize they were already at the steps. Tripping on the first step he would’ve hit his head on the hard stone if not for his mother’s quick reflexes catching him with her magic. He looked up at his mother his face crimson from embarrassment. Chrysalis gave him a small understanding smile at put him back on his feet as they continued the climb. Finally they were at the end to where the spectrum haired woman was waiting. Up close they could see she had milky white skin and bright pink eyes. She was incredibly tall even taller than her mother, maybe even Aunt Alexandrae. 

“Greetings, Queen Chrysalis.” Princess Celestia smiled curtsying.

“It’s good to see you again, Princess Celestia.” She smiled giving her own curtsy. Chrysalis looked back at the two and with a nod of her head urged them to approach Celestia. Chests out, backs straight, hands behind them, and heads raised to make eye contact they marched in front of Celestia. Celestia had to purse her lips to keep herself from giggling at the adorable refined display before her. 

This was it the moment they had been practicing for with their aunt Papillia. Clicking their heels together the brought their balled up right fist and placed it over their hearts. Their left arm still behind them. 

“It is a pleasure to meet you Princess Celestia. We are Prince Ebony and Prince Ivory.” They said in unison. It took all of Celestia’s willpower to not burst out in giggles at the two adorable little men before her. Putting on her most stoic face she gave a curtsy to the two princes.

“The pleasure is mine Prince Ebony and Prince Ivory.” She said serenely. 

“Now that introductions are finished with let’s head inside.” She gestured for two guards to open the doors which they quickly complied. 

“With pleasure.” Chrysalis growled as they followed Celestia inside. 

As the doors closed behind them and they were granted their privacy once again. Celestia turned around and wrapped Chrysalis in a friendly hug. Which Chrysalis returned with equal fervor. 

“It’s good to see you again, Chrysalis.” Celestia smiled. 

“It’s good to see you too Celestia.” Chrysalis laughed.

“So this is Ebony and Ivory that you’ve been going on and on about when we catch up?” Celestia asked breaking the hug and smiling down at the two.

“Indeed they were so nervous coming here over making a good impression.” Chrysalis said. 

“Really, well I would say they did a fabulous job. You two will make fine diplomats and leaders.” Celestia smiled. 

“Thank you, Princess Celestia.” Ebony smiled at the monarch with a tone and confidence of royalty.

“If you don’t mind Princess Celestia when will be getting to the proposed settlement near the badlands?” Ivory asked with the same confidence as his brother.

“Eager are we?” Celestia chuckled.

“Remember boys let me do most of the talking. This is a learning experience.” Chrysalis stated.

“Yeah, but won’t will learn more if we have some interaction?” Ebony countered. Chrysalis shot Ebony a scolding glare. While she encouraged them to voice their opinions now was not the time. 

“I agree completely.” Celestia stated. “Though maybe a settlement finalization is a bit too big of a bite for you two. How about you two work on improving future relations by meeting someone that I believe will be very important for Equestria’s future.” Celestia suggested. Chrysalis raised an eyebrow to Celestia’s proposition.

“Who would that be Celestia?” Chrysalis questioned.

“My protege Twilight Sparkle. Her brother is away at the military academy so my niece Princess Cadance is watching her today, and I think it would be a great idea for you two to get to know her.” Celestia smiled.

“Wait are you just putting us in a kind of play date so we don’t get in the way?” Ivory asked deflating.

"Come on were 12 mom we don't do play dates anymore." Ebony groaned.

“Not at all. When I say she’s going to be someone important I mean it and the best way to form friendships is to start early. As I am willing to bet you may be meeting with her more often than me.” She responded. Ebony and Ivory looked at each other thinking over her proposition. Forging an early friendship with a future leader of Equestria may be the best course of action. Especially if she’s Celestia’s protege. 

“Princess Celestia we would be honored to meet your protege.” Ebony bowing once again.

“Wonderful follow me.” Celestia clapped and leading them down to the halls.
> Diplomacy Pt. 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cadance sighed and traced another pattern on her bed canopy with her eyes. She was unbearably bored. No, not just bored she was drained, lethargic, her usual preppy energy that put a spring in her step and made her smile shine was just gone. Not gone completely like a dried up lake more like a lake whose rivers have been damned. She knew exactly what had damned those rivers and she hated herself for it. It was Shining Armor. He had only been gone for a few weeks yet his absence had left a noticeable void. She knew it was wrong to be so deflated without him there. It’s not even like he was missing or passed he was only a couple miles away at the academy. To be unable to live your life normally without another for a brief absence was not healthy. It wasn’t love, it was obsession and she was no obsessive school girl. Dipping into her pool of energy she leapt from her bed and over to her closet quickly changing into a pair of jeans and blue T-shirt. 

“I’m going to go down and grab that little bookworm and were gonna go out for ice cream.” She stated slipping on some socks. She had sent Twilight to fetch some reading material though she probably got distracted. “She probably needs this more than I do. Poor thing has been even more reclusive than usual.” She muttered putting on her shoes. 

“Besides this break is good for us. Gives me a chance to spread my wings and learn more about how to be a proper princess.” She breathed fixing her hair in the mirror. “Yeah besides I’ll be able to see him when he’s on leave.” She smiled with renewed vigor she opened the door to Princess Celestia.

“Oh, Cadance going somewhere?” Celestia asked noticing her niece's attire. 

“Oh I was just going to grab Twilight from the library.” She responded. 

“Splendid, Cadance you remember Queen Chrysalis, correct?” Celestia asked stepping aside so Chrysalis could step into Cadance’s view.

“Of course from the summit in Peighris, a pleasure to meet you again Queen Chrysalis.” Cadance smiled instinctively grabbing at her dress. But her eyes grew wide in panic as she pinched the air. Looking down at her baby blue jeans she mentally cursed. She quickly pinched her jean pockets and pulled them apart bowing in a faux curtsey. Chrysalis chuckled at the girl’s resourcefulness and bowed back.

“Good to see you again. You have grown into a beautiful young woman in these short years.” Chrysalis smiled. Cadance lightly blushed and quietly thanked her. 

“Cutting to the chase these are my sons Ebony and Ivory.” She smiled bringing them in front. “Boys this is Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. Introduce yourselves.” She ordered. 

The two princes stepped forward and bowed to Cadance in the same manner as her aunt.

“Hello, Princess Mi Am-Amore Cadenza?” They said in unison tripping over the long name in their own ways. Cadance giggled at their valiant attempt. Much to the chagrin of the princes; their faces growing red with embarrassment. This was a worse case scenario. 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you too: Prince Ebony and Prince Ivory. By the way don’t worry about the name everyone gets it wrong the first time.” She smiled bowing back. The two smiled at Cadance their faces still the colors of ripe tomatoes.

“So, Cadance, Queen Chrysalis and I have important work to do and we were wondering if you could watch these two along with Twilight. If you don’t mind.” Celestia said.

“Oh it would be no trouble Twilight could use some play mates.”  Cadance smiled down at the two. 

“No no no this is not a play date this is a meeting of future, erm, leaders of Equestria and  Chrysalis’s hive. Not for play, got it?” Celestia quickly intervened sneaking a wink to Cadance. 

“Oh! Of course I’m sorry for my rudeness. Of course this is strictly business.” Cadance exclaimed. Her aunt’s silent message coming in loud and clear. “Well I was about to go grab Twilight and get some ice cream. How does that sound for a diplomatic luncheon?” 

Their eyes lit up at the suggestion. Not only at the prospect of ice cream but also at the chance to explore the gorgeous city. Chrysalis on the other hand was far less enthused as a cold sweat went down her spine. 

“Umm I think a quiet day inside the castle would be best, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” Chrysalis  stated. Eliciting groans from her two sons. 

“Oh, um, okay if that’s what you want Queen Chrysalis we can do that.” Cadance stuttered as her whole day was shot down. The two princes looked down at the floor dejected. 

“Chrysalis can I talk to you please.” Celestia asked beckoning Chrysalis to join her away from the other three. Chrysalis huffed and walked further down the hall with Celestia. 

“If this is about them going out the answer is still no. You have a lot of nerve trying to undermine me in front of them. Chrysalis stated before Celestia could even open her mouth.

“I know you have reservations, Chrysalis, but this might be good for them to see the city.” Celestia countered remaining her cool.

“Celestia you saw that crowd. Someone is going to recognize them out there and I don’t even want to think what might happen then.” Chrysalis hissed fear creeping up her heart. It’s not like they could blend in like real changelings. 

“I understand your worries and I agree we should not send them out their with just Cadance.” Celestia replied. “I was going to suggest we send a few of my trusted guards with them.” 

“Your guards?” Chrysalis asked. “These are Changeling princes even if they were to go out. Which they aren’t. They’ll be with my guards.”

“I understand, however, say things do go sour and your guard stops them I can guarantee the only thing they’ll remember is a changeling guard assaulting an innocent civilian.” Celestia countered. “The wounds that those extremists left are not as forgotten as we would hope.” She muttered.

Chrysalis silently cursed to herself. Celestia was right things were steadily improving since Chrysalis became queen a few years ago. An occurrence like that could greatly hinder their efforts. Celestia’s centuries of experience has made her a shrewd negotiator.

“Alright, you may have a point. So hypothetically we use some of your guards. Why should I trust them?” Chrysalis asked.

“Well I know one of them is currently in a relationship with one of your Changelings.” Celestia replied. Chrysalis was taken off guard by this information.

“Really? I thought you forbade such relationships especially among guards.” Chrysalis inquired.

“I did nothing. My parliament on the other hand put that into law, overwhelmingly.” Celestia sighed. “So I’ve kept his relationship a secret.” She smiled.

Chrysalis had to admit this was an interesting development. For a human to be involved with a changeling takes bravery. 

“Okay, that’s one guard. I want at least two Celestia.”

“Of course the other one is just as loyal and a Changeling rights supporter. He’s a little young but passionate. Whenever I need someone arrested for Changeling related crimes he’s one of the few I trust to do his duty, unbiasedly.” Celestia replied.

Chrysalis rubbed her chin. She had to admit these were decent somewhat trustworthy candidates. But fear still weighed heavily in her mind. They had already endured a cavalcade of scorn from Canterlot’s worst citizens and she did not want to risk them encountering more. They already get enough of that back home.

“Chrysalis I know it’s not my place to say this but you need to let them go at some point. Let them leave the nest, for a bit.”

“I’ve done that Celestia and each time that happens something hurts them.” Chrysalis snapped. “Every time they leave my side: they are either bullied, or insulted, or worse.” Celestia could only sigh. She didn’t have a real answer for the troubled mother. 

“I’m worried that if that happens here it will be far more damaging. Not accepted among their people and now not accepted by their own kind.” She muttered

“I understand but if I may my niece will not let that happen.” Celestia stated. “Twilight Sparkle, the girl she’s watching, she was a total recluse before they met. But Cadance opened her up into a happy, somewhat friendly, girl.” She explained. “If anyone can keep them away from the ugliest of my city and bring them back happier than ever it’s her.” 

Chrysalis gave a sigh of reluctant defeat. “Fine, it might be good for them to see Canterlot at least once. It may be years before they return.” The two monarchs returned to the trio who were standing awkwardly

“Alright, boys, you two may leave the castle with Cadance and Twilight to get ice cream but only to the shop and back. No wandering.” Chrysalis stated. “Furthermore you will be escorted by two of Celestia’s trusted guards. You will stay with them at all times. At all times.” She reiterated enunciating each word. “Understood?”

The two princes beamed up at their mother. “Thank you, mom.” The two wrapped their arms around her giving her a grateful hug. 

“Of course boys.” Chrysalis smiled. 

“Cadance a word please?” Chrysalis beckoned the young princess with a finger, breaking the hug. As Cadance stepped forward Chrysalis pulled her forward and placed a pouch of bits in her hand. “Make sure they have a good time.” She smiled and winking. To which enthusiastically nodded and putting the pouch in her pocket. After all not even a princess could resist another person paying for food.

“So where are these guards?” Chrysalis asked. 

“Currently waiting for orders at the barracks. I will send a messenger to fetch them so you can see for yourself.” Celestia said. 

“Awaiting orders? Why Celestia if I didn’t know any better I would say this was planned.” Chrysalis smirked.

“It was only a feeling but it’s better to be safe than sorry.” Celestia replied with her own churlish smile. 

“Really now. Well there is no need for me to see them we have already wasted enough time just have them go to the library and escort them from there.” Chrysalis said with a wave of her hand. Celestia was surprised by this but quickly realized this was a test of her honesty. While they were friends they were still leaders whose nations’ relations may change in an instant. As it has done in the past many times. 

“Alright, Cadance take them to the library and await my guards then you may leave.” Celestia commanded. 

“And don’t try to sneak off. I will find out.” Chrysalis added flashing at them with a fearsome glance. Like a mother tiger that has decided it would not kill you this time but return at your own risk. “Well have a nice day.” She smiled her attitude swinging like bar door and walking away with Celestia in tow. 

“Your mom’s the most terrifying woman I’ve ever met.” Cadance muttered once they were safely out of earshot. Or so she thought.

“And don’t you forget it!” Chrysalis hollered from somewhere down the hallways. 

The trio of royalty calmly navigated the many corridors of the castle in mostly silence. Despite being ecstatic at the prospect of going out with Cadance a moment ago the two were surprisingly shy. Eventually Cadance could endure it no more and asked a burning question. 

“So, how come you two haven’t dropped your disguise?” She questioned looking back at them. They glanced at each other before looking at her with perplexity. “Oh was that too personal? I just thought since your mom wasn’t incognito you two would be. Sorry if I offended you.”

“You didn’t offend us it’s just that we're not changelings. We’re Equestrians. Couldn’t you tell?” Ebony asked. 

“Oh! I would never have imagined a Hive-Queen would adopt Equestrians.” Cadance exclaimed. “And wait what do you mean how could I not tell?” She asked.

“Well it’s pretty obvious that we’re full blooded Equestrians and not Changelings in disguise.” Ivory chuckled looking at the older princess like a child who didn’t understand 2+2=4. Cadance didn’t know how to respond. She wanted to ask how you could tell the difference but the idea of Chrysalis watching them kept her mouth shut. The last thing she wanted was it to seem she was pumping the two for information. 

Finally the the small group reached the massive royal canterlot library. Ebony and Ivory looked at the massive building in awe. As much as they hated to admit it the royal library at the hive paled in comparison to what surrounded them. Rows of rows of books stacked on high shelves and even more books on the second floor. They could feel hot envy creep up their neck. How could their hive not have a better library?

“Now where is she?” Cadance hummed looking up and down the main walkway of the library. “Ah there she is.” Cadance chirped walking down to the many tables with the two princes in tow.

The group walked up to a small table with an even smaller girl between two towers of thick books. Resting her head in her hands she was intently reading a big novel. She didn’t even notice the three walk up to her. Upon realizing Twilight’s obliviousness a mischievous smile grew on Cadance’s face. Slowly she inched her hand over to behind Twilight’s neck. Ebony and Ivory pursed their lips in anticipation. Trying to keep the giggles from escaping as Cadance’s hand grew closer and closer to the back of her neck. Finally she was in striking distance she primed to strike. Then struck with the speed of snake snipping at the back of Twilight’s neck. The poor girl let out shriek grabbing the back of her throat. 

She spun around at her assailant with vicious glare her cheeks burning red. 

“Cadance, what was that for?!” She hissed. 

“Didn’t I say to grab a few books then come right back?” She asked. With that Twilight’s burning anger turned into smoldering shape.

“I was but then the book just kind of fell open, and I accidentally read a few things, and it was in the middle. So I had to read back a bit and things kind of got out of hand.” She chuckled. 

“Mmmhmm well save your spot bookworm cause we’re going out for some ice cream.” She stated. The girl groaned.

“Do we have to can’t we just stay inside and read?” She sighed.

“Nope we’ve been cooped up inside for far too long. Especially you little missy.” She replied. Twilight groaned again rolling her eyes and laying her head down on the table. It was then she noticed the two sharply dressed boys next to Cadance. Who were busy giggling at her expense. 

“What are you two looking at?” She snapped. 

“Twilight!” Cadance chided. “These two are Queen Chrysalis’s children they will be joining us.” She whispered.

“Wait, Queen Chrysalis? As in the Queen of the Changelings, Chrysalis?” Twilight asked. To which the two boys nodded. Instantly Twilight’s sour mood was gone and was replaced with giddy enthusiasm. She jumped from the chair and confronted the two with a wide grin.

“So you guys are changelings? That’s so exciting I’ve always wanted to meet a changeling.” She beamed. “Then again maybe I have met a changeling but I just don’t know it. Oh! how do you disguise yourself? Can you become anything like a giant or a dragon? Is it true you suck love through cocoons?” Twilight rambled throwing question after question at the two brothers. 

“Twilight calm down.” Cadance scolded pulling her back by her shirt. 

“It’s no big deal. I kind of like how interested she is in us Changelings.” Ebony smiled.

“You know if you came with us you could ask us more questions.” Ivory said. Twilight’s eyes lit up. 

“Oh I’ll go, I’ll go, I’ll go.” She chirped. “Come on.” Breaking free from Cadance's grip and seizing the two princes by the hands and trying to lead them from the library. Almost giving Cadance a heart attack.

“Twilight I said calm down.” She said lifting the girl in a bubble of her magic. “Were not going until a couple of Celestia’s guards get here. They’ll be escorting us.”

“But why? We haven’t needed guards in years..” Twilight complained. “Can’t we just ditch them like we used to?”

“Absolutely not! I didn’t realize it then but that was incredibly dangerous. Besides they’ll be coming with us to help watch them.” She gestured to the princes.

“Oh, so do you guys wanna ditch them?” Twilight asked.

“Twilight I said we're waiting. Not only is it dangerous but I’m afraid their mother will literally eat me if we disobey her.” She set the girl down in a chair and sat down next to her.

“Cadance that was mean she won’t eat you, right?” She looked to Ebony and Ivory. Who looked up to the roof in thought and scratching their chins. They’ve never seen their mother eat anyone but she can be pretty scary when angry. 

“I mean probably not…” Ivory pondered.

“But maybe.” Ebony finished.

Cadance’s face went pale.

Thankfully for Cadance Celestia’s guards arrived a few moments later sparing her from the possibility of Chrysalis’s wrath. The two guards bowed to Cadance as they walked up. 

“Private Silverwing reporting for duty, Princess Cadance.” The younger of the two said. He looked to be maybe only 1 year older than Cadance.

“Charging Lance reporting for duty, Princess Cadance.” The other soldier said who was slightly older but only by a few more years.

“Thank you for reporting are you aware of your assignments?” Cadance asked. 

“Indeed we are to watch over you and the two princes and ensure no aggressors get near.” They responded in unison. 

“Wonderful! Let’s go.” 

As the group walked down the streets Ebony and Ivory mouths were agape in wonder. They had never seen so many different kinds of people walking around. Some had feathers for hair and massive feathery wings. Some had rough scaly skin and slitted eyes some had big leathery wings while others did not. Even the Equestrians amazed them with their colorful clothes, hair, and skin colors. They gasped when an equestrian sprouted purple translucent wings and took off to the sky. The city itself was even more beautiful and vivid when up close. Buildings of different sizes, different designs each painted with rich colors. Royal purples, pure ocean blues, glistening yellow and red bricks. It was like a rainbow of stones flanking them.

“Canterlot sure is beautiful isn’t it?” Cadance asked looking back at the two. They could only nod in agreement still gawking at their surroundings.

“Is every city in Equestria this colorful?” Ivory asked. 

“Hmmm not to me, though some are up there like Las Pegasus. In my opinion Canterlot is the most beautiful city in all of Equestria. From the people to the buildings I love it all. It’s not perfect but it’s pretty close.” Cadance responded. 

“Are your cities like this?” Twilight whispered. Cadance warned her not to ask her questions too loudly. Ebony reluctantly shook his head no.

“No, none as bright and beautiful as this. We mostly use ebony and dark stones for our hive as it’s what’s most abundant. Some changelings decorate their houses like this but they’re sometimes targeted by others as being too outlandish. Too non-changeling.” Ebony whispered back. 

“Non-changelings aren’t allowed into the hive except for special circumstances. I’ve never seen so many colorful and different people in one place before.” Ivory whispered. 

“Why not and why is it a bad thing to do anything foreign. Why do you guys hate outsiders so much?” Twilight asked. Ebony’s nostrils flared in anger. He was about to snap at the ignorant girl about all the terrors inflicted to changeling. Ivory sensed this and quickly stepped in before Ebony said anything he’d regret. 

“Well outsiders aren’t much nicer to changelings.” He stated. “The reason you’ve never met an undisguised changeling is because they’re usually harassed when exposed.” Twilight mulled over his words. She was surprised that she never put it together their need for secrecy before. She always thought it was because they were shy, not because they were afraid. 

“I’m sorry.” She muttered it was the only thing she could think to say at the moment. For once a conundrum that stopped her dead in her tracks.

“It’s alright a lot of Changelings aren’t much nicer.” Ebony sighed to which Ivory sullenly agreed. Cadance grimaced as the dour mood of the party sent a chill down her spine. 

“So what do you two do usually: do you go to school, any friends stuff like that?” Cadance asked trying to change the subject. 

“Well we don’t go to school my mom and aunts teach us about how to be future kings. Our mom’s teaches us about being a ruler, our aunt Papilia teaches us diplomacy, Alexandrae teaches us how to fight and military strategy, while Priamus teaches us history about our hive. We don’t spend too much time with Aunt Arthemis.” Ivory responded.

“Wow five aunts huh? I bet you have a lot of cousins huh?” Cadance chirped.

“Not really we only have three they’re Aunt Arthemis’s hatchlings. Though we think Aunt Alexandrae has been seeing someone. While Priamus has been spending a lot of time with the captain of the guard.” Ebony smiled. 

“Oh, how scandalous.” Cadance chuckled. 

“Oh how do Changelings reproduce? Is it the same as us?” Twilight asked.

“Tw-Twilight! That’s not an appropriate question.” Cadance sputtered. “What do you know about se- I mean reproduction anyway?” She asked

“Books,” the little girl replied. “Also can’t I ask that? We’re not little kids anymore it’s perfectly acceptable question.” She retorted. 

“Yes you are! You’re 11 and they can’t be much older. Just because you’ve been looking at books too old for you does not mean they know what you’re talking about.” She responded.

“We know about sex and how hatchlings are made, our mom told us.” Ivory responded. Making Cadance’s eyes go wide in shock as she stuttered for a response.

“To answer your question. When two changelings truly love each other-” But before Ebony could finish his little lesson in Changeling reproduction Cadance interrupted him.

“Look here we're here. Now quickly pick out what you want, no more questions, only ice cream now.” She hurried the three through the door a cold sweat dripping down her back. ‘That was close.’ She thought relieved they could avoid such talk at least for now. 

The five of them picked out their flavors, the guards resisted at first but quickly warmed up to the idea as the summer sun warmed up their armor, Cadance chose a Cotton Candy Swirl, Twilight went for a Tropical Sherbert, Charging Lance got Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and Silverwing chose Cherry Jubilee. The two princes were amazed by the many different and unique flavors in the end Ebony chose a Berry Mix and Ivory decided on Peanut Butter and Chocolate. Just as Cadance was about to hand them their frozen treats the two grabbed the cones in their magic floating them into their hands.

“Oh you guys can use magic. Is it true that all Changelings can use magic? How good are they at it? Do you know any special Changeling magic?” Twilight quickly asked.  a whole slew of new questions loaded up taking licks of her ice cream between each question. 

Cadance rolled her eyes at the indignant girl. She supposed she should be happy that she was talking to somebody and making what might be friends. If only she just wasn’t so insesent with her questions, might scare the two away.

“Well to the first question yes and third question no as for the second-” Ivory began but Ebony gave him a look before he could get into the second one. “As for the second we don’t feel like talking about. Ebony and I on the other hand are pretty good at magic.” He smiled quickly thinking on how to change the subject to them. “Ebony, though,  is some kind of prodigy really powerful and takes classes with just him and mom.” He beamed however there appeared to be something hollow in his smile. A slight drop in his cheekbones that says something other than admiration.

“Really well what a coincidence Twilight here is a bit of a prodigy herself and being taught by Princess Celestia. Maybe you can talk about that instead.” She said heavily implying for Twilight to change the subject. Which this time did not fly over her head. Their conversations quickly turned to their studies which Twilight was just as enthusiastic about. It was mostly between her and Ebony with poor Ivory sometimes chiming in, but most of the time he quietly at his ice cream in dejected silence. Noticing this she sat down next to the small boy sympathizing with his predicament. 

“You know I’m honestly not that good with magic either.” She said to him. The prince looked up at her incredulously. Their mother told them about them the people called them Alicorns after their national symbol. Able to use both aura magic and burst they were said to be the most powerful in all of Equestria.

“It’s true I mean I’m still more powerful than the average person but compared to my aunt and past Alicorns I’m not that good at magic. Makes sense because I was just an aura user before I ascended.” She continued. “I remember feeling so disappointed in myself but Aunt Celestia taught me something I’ll never forget. She said it’s more important to be smart with your magic than to be powerful. She told me people with powerful magics often just rely on their power to get them through without thinking. She said my magic wasn’t weaker I just had to be smarter with it, and you look pretty smart.” She smiled. Ivory blushed at the compliment and his words did make him feel a little better. 

"Well I am a pretty fast learner. Mom always says that she's surprised at how fast I pick up stuff up. I'm usually at least three levels ahead." He responded a faint blush rising as he talked about himself.

"Really now, what are you ahead of now?" Cadance asked. So while Ebony and Twilight talked of magic and spells Ivory and Cadance sparked a conversation ranging from books, to academia and everything in between. That envy lingered but was now coupled with determination.

“Princess Cadance what about the people that are both?” He asked as they finished the last bit of their treats. Cadance’s bright and happy face turned cold and serious.

“Well if they use their power for good stick by their side as they will be great heroes like Celestia.” She said her expression as cold as ice and her eyes wistful. “But if they use it for evil then run. Run as fast and as far as you can, because people like that are worse than monsters.” It shook Ivory to the core for she seemed to be speaking from experience.
______________________________________________________________________________

When the troupe decided to head back, full of creamy goodness and high spirits, the sun began 
it’s descent onto the horizon. As they reached the castle gates Cadance left the princes and guards to take Twilight home. When the now four opened the door they were met by Queen Chrysalis’s imposing visage which quickly softened when she saw her two boys. 

“Ah there you two are.” She sighed gliding over and pulling them into hug. 

“I told you they were fine you worry wart.” Celestia sang walking over. “Where is Princess Cadance?” She asked. 

“Taking Twilight home, Princess Celestia.” Charging Lance said saluting. 

“Ah very good. Thank you for your service today you two are dismissed.” She said waving them away. While Silvering Wing headed straight to the barracks Charging Lance waited in the wings. “So did you two have fun?” She asked.

“Yep! Twilight and Cadance were awesome can we see them again when we come back?” Ivory asked. 

“Well if you enjoyed it that much I don’t see why not.” She smiled it had been a little while since she had seen them this elated. Perhaps more trips to Canterlot would be in their future. “Now let’s go wash up dinner will be soon.” As she walked by Celestia the sun monarch gave her a knowing smirk. She was right about letting them go out but Chrysalis would never admit it out loud. At least not in those exact words. 

“Celestia when Cadance comes back can you thank her for me and tell her to keep whatever was left.” She said looking back at her and flashing a grateful smile. 

As soon as the three were out of earshot Charging Lance approached Celestia. 

“My Princess when will they be leaving tomorrow?” He asked. Celestia looked at the young man in confusion and minor suspicion.

“Why would you need to know that?”

The three royals awoke just as the sun was rising the next day intent on getting back to their hive as soon as possible. As they were departing for the airship after a quick breakfast they were confronted by Charging Lance and a woman. The woman slowly approached them and quickly dropped to her knees. 

“Mother Chrysalis, my Princes: Ebony and Ivory, it is an honor to be in your presence.” She said. “My name is Sunlight. I would drop my disguise but you can never be too careful that wandering eyes are not watching. This is Charging Lance my boyfriend.” She quickly continued looking back at him.

“It is quite alright I understand. Celestia told me about you two.” Chrysalis responded. Sunlight’s head shot up both their eyes were wide in fear. “Oh sorry for startling you two she knows and has been keeping your secret safe.” Chrysalis chuckled. The two lovers breathed a heavy sigh of relief. “So what can we do for you today?” She asked. 

“Nothing my queen I merely wanted to meet you all. I have heard stories of you from my family in the hive. Some good but many not so good…” She said her voice heavy with sadness. “I just wanted to say that for many of us who are living beyond the hive either by choice or to collect food, you two give us hope. You give me hope that one day I no longer have to wear this disguise, and live and love openly with him.” She continued looking back at Lance. “I know not all Changelings are as supportive but you will always have my support and love.” 

The royal family stood there stunned each could feel tears swell in their eyes. Chrysalis managed to keep her composure and keep them from falling only wetting her eyes. Ebony and Ivory couldn’t help but feel a few tears slide down. Hearing such words of encouragement from one of their citizens swelled their chests with pride and determination. They quickly wiped the tears and walked over to the kneeling woman. Both placing a hand on one of her shoulder they asked her to look up at them. 

“Thank you for your kind words Sunlight and as your princes we will bridge the divides between us and the outside world. We will see that the hopes you and your friends come true.” They said in unison. Sunlight looked at them with wet eyes and quietly thanked the two for their dedication before leaving with Charging Lance. 

As they left Ebony and Ivory felt their conviction sink to their feet. They were serious in their promises so why did their chests feel so hollow?
> Dreams
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ebony glared at the wall next to his bed. Curled up in a ball of anguish. Hot angry tears streamed down his face and dripping onto his pillow. His lips quivered in pain. He played out what had just happened over in his head once more. Deepening his sorrow. 

‘I knew it,’ he barked in his mind as more tears fell. He had known for a while that this would happen but didn’t make the blow any softer when he heard it. “I should have known. I can’t do any anything.” He sighed. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“You two can never be kings.” 

It took Ebony a second to register what his mother had told him. Chrysalis called him and Ivory to talk to them about something. He thought she might have something great planned like taking on one of her trips to meet other rulers. Like when they met Celestia and Twilight. They were thirteen now, young men by Equestrian standards, and were more than ready for a bigger taste of the outside world. 

Ebony stared at his mother, perplexed. “What are you talking about?” He asked. Was this some kind of a joke? Of course they could they were the princes after all and princes become kings. However, as much as he wanted to deny her words and cling to his hopes of being king and leading his people to a bright tomorrow. He knew in the back of his mind that this was never going to happen. He tried to prepare himself but it still felt like his heart was being torn out.

“Ebony, I’m sorry, but you two can never become kings.” She repeated her words heavy with regret. 

“Of course we can. I will be. We’re princes after all. That’s what you’ve been teaching us.” Ebony replied trying to laugh it off. Internally pleading that this was a joke that his mother was merely testing their resolve. Pleading that he would he wouldn’t have to give up his dream and could still fulfill the dreams of his fellow Changelings like Sunlight. Chrysalis stared at her son seeing the internal battle play in his head as despair crept into his bright red eyes. A mountain of regret crushed her.

“I-I have been teaching you to be leaders of all sorts not just kings.” She responded delicately. But she knew that was a lie too. She fooled herself and them into thinking they could become kings. But now it was time to face reality and it killed them both.

“But why not!?” Ebony cried. He knew why but he wanted to hear it from his mother’s mouth. 

“I’m sorry but a ruler of the changelings needs to be able to use the hive mind. Which is just impossible for a human.” Chrysalis explained. That was a good reason but not the one he wanted. “Not only that but there is no way the Hive could accept having a human as a king. They barely accept you as princes.”


Ebony looked down. His heart had plummeted into his stomach. As his hopes and dreams came crashing down around his ears. There it was, because he was damned Equestrian all his work and all his goals were being dashed. His ears were burning red as he held back his tears. Despair swept over him. Thinking that he could not be great like his aunts and mother. All because he was a gross Equestrian. 

“Wh-why did you lie to me! You said I was going to be a great king!”” Ebony lashed out. This was her fault if she had never even told him then this wouldn’t have happened. 

“Ebony, no… I didn’t mean to. I didn’t know what to say. You were so young I…” Chrysalis blathered. She didn’t know what to say. Ebony had these dreams of being king for as long as she could remember. She just couldn’t tell a child his biggest dreams were impossible. Instead she encouraged him raising him up only for her to tear him down at his highest. 

“Yo-You told us th-that we were going to change things that we were going to change their minds about us; that they would accept us. Was that lie too? Did we lie to Sunlight when we said we would bridge the gaps.”  He sobbed. Was this there fate? To always be looked at as different and be only princes by name. Barely helping their people.

“Ebony ,sweetie, no come here.” Chrysalis cooed trying to bring Ebony into a hug. But he recoiled from her touch.

“Don’t touch me. You’ve been lying to me every day. Making me believe in myself only to bring me down! I-I hate you!” He screamed. Ebony eyes widened in shock at what he just said. He looked at his mother’s equally shocked expression. Panicking he bolted for the door and tore off down the hall. 

‘I can’t believe I just said that.’ Ebony shuddered in his mind. He didn’t even bother to look up as he sprinted down the hall. His heart pounding in his ear from the exhilaration and the shame. He looked down at his pistoning light brown arm. His face contorted into a silent rage. He grabbed a bit of his skin between his finger and thumb. He didn’t hate his mother he hated himself, his equestrian self, that kept him from being one with his society. “I wish I was never born as an Equestrian.”

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ebony pinched at the same bit of skin again. It had turned red and was throbbing from his repeated assaults. He heard another knock at his door.

“Ebony please open the door. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to hurt you.” Chrysalis pleaded from behind the door for the upteenth time. But Ebony didn’t get up, he couldn’t. He didn’t have the courage to face her after what he said. 

Chrysalis slid down the door as her attempt to coax her son out failed, again. Her eyes were bloodshot red and tired. “What kind of a mother does this to her own child.” She muttered burying her head in her arms. ‘You never should have adopted them. You’re a horrible parent,’ she scolded herself. A soft touch on her shoulder shook her from her depressed stupor, it was Ivory. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chrysalis could only look on in shock and awe as Ebony sprinted down the hall. Her brain was still registering what had just happened. ‘He just said he hated me, my god what have I done.’ She gasped. Her eyes drifted to Ivory who was just as disturbed. 

“Ivory…Do you feel the same?” Chrysalis began. Ivory looked up at his mother and then looked away in shame. 

“No of course not but there’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you.” Ivory blushed. “I’ve been meaning to ask Aunt Alexandrae to train m more. You see I want to enter the military and maybe become captain of the royal guards.” He admitted. 

“Oh Ivory, that’s… wonderful! Why didn’t you tell me sooner?” Chrysalis asked.

“I didn’t know how to tell you. I was worried you would be disappointed.” Ivory responded.

“What? Why would you think that?” Chrysalis asked.

“Well it’s just that you’ve been teaching us how to be like you. You know teaching us to be political leaders like a governor or councilmen. I thought you’d be upset that I didn’t want to, I find it really boring.” He blushed. Chrysalis giggled at his comment.

“Oh Ivory I wasn’t trying force you to be like me. I was just teaching you what it took to be a leader for anything. Like the way my parents taught me. Whether that’s as a military commander or a councilman.” She smiled. Caressing his cheek with her palm and brushing his bangs from his eyes. “It’s why I had you two have those special lessons with your aunts every couple of weeks. So you could learn more about how they helped the hive and you could choose for yourselves.” She continued. Ivory smiled at his mother as a huge weight was lifted from his chest.

“Thanks mom. I should have you told you sooner." He smiled

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Hey mom I went and got Aunty Alexandrae.” He said. Chrysalis looked over to see her sister lording over her. 

“So you finally told him.” She stated. “Ivory filled me in on what happened.”

“Oh Alex. I don’t know what to do he won’t come out. I really screwed up this time. He really hates me. I’m a horrible mother.” Chrysalis blubbered.

“Hey enough of that,” Alexandrae snapped. “I won’t heart of it.” She stated. “Here let me talk to him.” Alexandrae shooshed Chrysalis aside and pounded on the door.

“Ebony, it’s me.” No response.

“Ebony either open the door or I’m breaking it open.” Once again silence responded them. Alexandrae gripped the handle tightly ready to break the door handle with one fierce twist. However before she could break the poor door handle like a wrist the sound of tumblers moving stopped her. The door peaked open. Alexandrae cracked the door open a little more and slipped inside. 

Once inside she saw Ebony had already jumped onto his bed facing away from her. 

‘Okay how to approach this?’ Alex wondered walking over to the bed. 

“So tough day, huh?” She asked. Nothing. Alex sighed and took a seat at the foot of his bed 

“Look, believe it or not I know how you feel. You’re crushed, you’re lost, you’re wondering what you’ll do now,” she said placing her hand on his leg.  “I felt the same way when I lost the crown to your mother.” She admitted. “Our parents taught us that no matter what: as the royal family we must dedicate our lives for the betterment of the hive. I’m sure Chrysalis has been teaching you the same. I decided that the best way to do that was to become queen.” Alex explained. “When I lost I was crushed all my dreams and aspirations shattered. I know how you feel.” 

“No you don’t!” He snapped springing from his curled position with a sharp glare. Alexandrae responded with admonishing raised eyebrow, calming him down. Ebony then turned his attention to the floor, dejected.

“I’m not upset about never being able to rule. I’ve known that I wouldn’t be king for a few years now.” He said. 

“Then why are you so upset?” She asked. Gently scratching his back. 

“Because I want to be a leader. I want to be everything that mom’s been teaching us but it feels like I never will.” He responded. “All because I’m a stupid equestrian,” he spat. It was then Alexandrae noticed his bright red forearm. Pain and worry swept through her heart as she gently grasped the injury but let him continue. The warm embrace of his aunt melted Ebony’s icy defenses as he began to weep once more. “I want to help Changelings like Sunshine but it feels like I’ll never be able to. It feels like they’ll always hate me and things will never change. I was born with all this magic and talent but I feel wasted.” He whimpered. 

“Ebony things will change one day and they will get better.” She cooed. “They just need more time to get to know you.” She said. 

“How do you know, though?” He asked with desperate eyes. Alexandrae took a deep breath before responding.

“Because I used to hate you.” She stated. Ebony’s eyes went wide in shock. Alexandrae had always been one of his role models and best friends. 

“When your mother first brought you to us I couldn’t stand the sight of you. I called you gross little Equestrians, I refused to hold you, I even refused to be near you if I could help it. ” She elaborated. “For years I treated you terribly, I tolerated your existence but I didn’t care about you, I was just like the rest of them,” regret filled her body like poison that twisted her stomach. She pulled him closer. “It wasn’t until years later that I realized how foolish I was. Now I couldn’t imagine my life without you and Ivory. ” She said. She blinked away a few tears of remorse.  “So things will get better you just have to keep trying and relax,” she smiled pulling him into a hug.

“But what if they don’t? What if nothing changes no matter what I do. What if-” but before he could finish Alex placed a finger on his lips.

“I said relax, you’re only thirteen, you have plenty of time to figure what you’re going to do and we’ll be here to help you.” She said. With an encouraging pat on his back. “Now why don’t we talk to your mother about this.” She smiled getting off of the bed and over to the board. Ebony was hesitant on confronting his mother but knew he had to. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meanwhile Chrysalis and Ivory waited for what seemed forever. Chrysalis had stopped crying, content that someone was in there with Ebony talking to him. The two chose to wait in almost complete silence until Ivory decided to break it. 

“So, Mom, we can’t become kings because we're Equestrians, right?” Ivory asked.

“Unfortunately yes that is the case, the changelings need a changeling to rule them. Partly because a ruler needs to connect to the hive mind to check and of course culturally,” she sighed. “Having an Equestrian rule over the Changelings is like having a Changeling rule over the Equestrians it just won’t happen, at least not for a long time.” 

“Mom, will I be able to become a captain or even a guard if I’m Equestrian?” He asked. 

“Well of course you will if you work hard at it.” She replied. 

“Yes but you said the same thing about king how is this any different. I mean if I don’t become a leader or something great how can I gain their trust. Then if I don’t gain their trust how will I change things for changelings like Sunlight? ” He asked with eyes drenched in panic.  

“Ivory you will do wondrous things for our hive because you are my son. You will be great as a captain of the guard.” She smiled with a kiss on the top of his head.

“But what if you’re wrong,” he cried. “ Because I’m an equestrian I’ll fail before I’m even given a chance. I just want to be like you,” he murmured. A solemn frown descending on his face.

“Ivory listen-” but before she could say another word the door beside them opened up. Chrysalis shot up and pushed past Alex to wrap Ebony up in her arms. 

“Oh Ebony I’m so so sorry for everything I didn’t mean to hurt you so badly, can you ever forgive me?” She asked, peppering his cheek with kisses

“I’m the one that should be sorry,” he mumbled. As he pulled his mom in closer and nuzzling her neck. “I didn’t mean what I said I was just angry, and afraid, and upset, and I’m sorry,” he whimpered. With his own barrage of kisses. 

“I know but I should have been honest with you from the beginning instead of lying to you for all these years. Then you wouldn’t have been so upset.” She cooed, putting him down.

“Mom I wasn’t angry over that I was, no I am, scared that I may never be a real prince. A real leader like you,” he admitted. The familiar words rang in Chrysalis’s ears. Chrysalis looked into her son’s eyes. They were bright but hungry like a starving child’s, they were looking for some sort of comfort or nourishment. 

Chrysalis bent over and pulled them in close touching their foreheads with her’s. “Ebony and Ivory listen to me. Banish those dark thoughts because you will be great leaders. ” She whispered. “Because you two are my sons no matter what they say or how much they protest it. You are my sons and you will do great things.” she smiled. With great emphasis that they were her’s no matter what. Raising the spirits of the two princes as they remembered they were not alone. “You are princes of this hive and as long as you work for greatness you will achieve it, regardless if you’re Equestrian or Changeling. Part of being a leader is overcoming adversity and while I never faced what you two must endure you will overcome it. And I’m going to help every step of the way because I’m your mother, understood?” She asked. Her strong stare penetrating them and filling their hollowed hearts with confidence. The two princes smiled and nodded. 

“That’s my boys.” Chrysalis smiled pulling them close and nuzzling them. Which they happily reciprocated. They then felt something press against their backs and bury into the backs of their heads. 

“Don’t forget that Chrysalis isn’t the only one in this castle. Your aunts and I will be right by your side too.” Alexandrae whispered. The two princes smiles grew even warmer as the doubts and fears swirled out of their mind. As confidence and the strength of youth filled them back up as they took comfort in the security of their family.
> The Future
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ebony looked at the little drawing that he kept inside the drawer of his nightstand. It was a crude drawing he did when he was about eight. He was standing on the castle with the black crown of the hive on his head. Ivory was next to him in what appeared to be guard armor while his aunts and cousins were just below them. On the ground level of the castle there were a bunch of Changelings, Equestrians, and various other races holding each other’s stick hands. Everyone had a big smile that took up most of their misshapen heads. After chuckling at his awful child drawing skills he tossed into the garbage can. He was not going to be king so it was time to throw out the childish dreams and focus.

As he left the room he was stopped by Ivory. 

“Hey you doing anything?” He asked.

“Not really, why?” Ebony responded.

“I was going to meet Belus and the others at the sanctuary, want to come?” 

Ebony ran his fingers through his long shaggy hair. When they were younger the two decided to let their hair grow out. While Ebony chose to keep his hair wild and free like a mane, Ivory opted to contain his long locks in a short pony tail. Chrysalis hated the idea at first but the two parties came to an agreement: they could keep their hair as long as they wanted so long as Chrysalis could brush, maintain and style their hair at her leisure. 

“Let me guess you were going to go find something else about what are cutie things might be?” Ivory asked. Ebony nodded. Ivory sighed and put his arm around his brother's shoulder. “Look I know you’re worried but relax that book Dr. Hale gave us said they’ll appear on their own, just give it time.” 

“Unfortunately time is the one thing we don’t have. At our age Arthemis was already a respected statesling taking part in council meeting’s daily. Alex was a lieutenant in the army and distinguished in fighting remaining scattered Lazarus Hive groups. Priamus was…” But before he could continue Ivory placed a finger on his lips. 

“Relax, we have time if anything we have more time because of those cutie marks. There’s something we have a natural talent at; we just need to find it and let life take it’s course.” Ivory smiled, but Ebony wasn’t convinced he bit on his fingernail and went back to his thoughts. 

“Life take it’s course, right,” he muttered.

“I know you don’t believe in destiny but I do and whatever our destinies are, they’ll come to us, we just got to be patient and keep moving forward.” Ivory stated. “It’s like Papillia always says: everything happens for a reason.” Ebony grunted in response, as he usually did. 

Ivory brayed in annoyance. “Look you’ve been working yourself ragged for the past couple months. During what is supposed to be our vacation. We only have a few weeks left before we go back to our learning. Let’s do something before we’re too swamped to do anything together.” Ivory said. Ebony sighed and looked to Ivory.

“Fine,” Ebony sighed. You’re just going to guilt me if I don’t,” He muttered.

Ivory flashed him a big smile and lead the way to the Royal Greenhouse Sanctuary. 

The royal sanctuary was a large greenhouse in the castle with a practical jungle inside. It was about two miles in circumference but the canopy was thick and stretched all the way to the roof. It was constructed by their great great grandfather. To this day no one knows how he was able to create such a beautiful environment in a small enclosed space. The miniature environment was filled with a variety of creatures both captured and from small burrows.

As the two princes entered the area they spotted their three cousins laying out an area for a picnic. As soon as they walked up Ebony was jumped by Belus who smothered him in kisses.

“Oh Ebony I’m so glad you came. I haven’t seen you in so long!” She squealed nuzzling into his neck.

“Belus you see me every day.” He stated

“Yeah but it feels like I haven’t been with you in forever. Either you’re too busy or I’m too busy or someone’s too busy.” She responded hugging him even tighter. 

“Yeah you’re kind of right, it’s good to see you too Belus.” Ebony responded returning the hug with a big kiss on her cheek.  

Belus grew into a tiny rose without any thorns. She was sweet and sensitive with a tender heart. She would cry over almost anything whether it was anger, happiness, or sadness. She was also as small as Papillia even after her second cocooning. Leaving the two adolescent boys still taller than her. Her hair was red like the aforementioned flower and was cut into short curls.

As Belus’s hug tightened and her barrage of kisses and nuzzles continued a deep voice boomed. 

“Easy Belus and let us have a turn at him.” The deep voice rumbled with laughter. 

“Alrighty Exy,” She sighed; reluctantly she let go of Ebony. With Belus aside, Exadeus stepped over to Ebony.

While Belus grew to be a rose Exadeus became an oak. He was the tallest and largest boy in the entire royal academy. Despite building up a strong bulky body he hated violence and has no interest in joining the military, in spite of Alex’s urging. He had wavy hair the color of fire; Arthemis said he was the spitting image of his father, Sandstorm. 

Exadeus then picked Ebony up in a massive bear hug, crushing him. 

“Good to see you again Ebony.” He laughed planting a big wet kiss on Ebony’s lips before throwing him around like a stuffed animal.

“For the love of- you guys are acting like I haven’t seen you in months. Why aren’t you giving Ivory the same treatment?” Ebony squeaked as the massive hug tightened around him.

“Probably because I actually take the time to spend time with them beyond the dining room,” Ivory responded. 

“Alright, I get the picture I’ll start spending more time with you just put me down you’re crushing me.” He grunted. With a nod from Ivory Exadeus released Ebony from his titan grip. 

“Glad to see you were able to take a break to see us Ebby.” Proteus called from her comfy position on the ground.

“Yeah well not everyone can just lounge about all day like you Protey.” He responded.

“Hey, I get my stuff done! Straight A’s all year, what do you guys even get learning at home with Aunt Chrysalis?” She huffed. She proceeded to sit up to get a better look at Ebony.

Proteus looked more like Chrysalis than Arthemis only she had blue hair. She was also tall and lanky with toned muscles from climbing the mountains outside the hive. Despite being incredibly lazy she was brilliant. Unfortunately, her mental fortitude was not lost on her leading to an ego twice the size of her intellect. 

“Kisses on the head and we’re told that we are her smart precious boys.” Ivory smiled. 

“Wow Ebony all she has to do is add in some treats and maybe you can become king of the dogs instead.” Proteus giggled. Belus and Exadeus shot their sister a sharp glare. Understanding Proteus threw her hands up in acceptance of the poor taste of her joke.

“So how you holding up there, Ebby?” She asked in a genuine tone. 

“Fine, I’m not going to let this stop me. I’ll just need to find something else to do for the hive.” He responded. 

“Yeah well it still sucks. I thought we were going to get married, with me as your Queen. So much for that,” she pouted. 

“Proteus didn’t we come up with that plan when we were hatchlings?” Ebony chuckled.

“I remember every deal I’ve made, regardless of when,” Proteus responded.

“Well looks like you’re going to have to figure out a different career path,” Ivory stated with a cheshire smile. 

“Speaking of career paths you still intent on joining the military?” Proteus asked.

“Of course, captain of the royal guards.” He replied sticking his chest out and saluting proudly. 

“Well good luck with that,” She responded with a roll of her eyes. “Now how about we stop just talking and get to eating this picnic,” Proteus exclaimed. She then pulled out a blanket and spread it out on the grass. 

“So how is the academy going?” Ivory asked. Taking a bite of a blueberry crepe.

“It’s fine, a little boring for me, but pretty uneventful overall. Go to class, you learn, you go home, and repeat.” Proteus replied. “I honestly wish I could learn like you two. I mean you guys have had some real experience.” She exclaimed. “You went to the capital of Equestria. You got to meet the Princess Celestia. I’ve only read books about them and seen some pictures.” She mumbled. 

“Yeah but the academy is a fantastic school. I’ve been enjoying my classes and everyling is really friendly.” Belus smiled. 

“Belus everything to you is fantastic,” Proteus deadpanned. “Look I’m not taking the academy for granted we’re lucky all three of us got in. Even with our family name but it feels like I’m not going to be prepared when I leave.” She said. Absentmindedly she started to pick at a few strands of grass. “I mean we’ll be graduating in a few years and it feels like all I’m gonna learn is how to ace a quiz but not much else. Am I the only one who’s kind of scared?” She asked, looking over to her siblings. 

“No, kinda, I mean I honestly have no idea what I’m doing when I’m done with classes. I mean other than the applying for an internship but yeah… I’m kind of worried too.” Exadeus nervously chuckled. Proceeding to rub the back of his neck and looked at the ground bashfully. Belus didn’t say anything but her dour face showed solidarity with her cousin’s concerns. 

Ebony too remained silent as his cousins aired their fears and grievances. He quietly finished another cup of tea as his heart sank in shame. Despite all their advantages: birth, family connections etc. Despite all of their privileges and advantages in life they had the same fears about the future as him. Fears he had completely refused to consider or ask about for months since he began to fear for his own future. In all honesty, he had barely acknowledged them before then too.

As soon as he set down his cup of tea Ebony sprung forward wrapping his arms around Proteus shoulders. He still found the height difference between them awkward despite their similar age. 

“Ebony, what are you doing?” She exclaimed as she was almost knocked over by his sudden lunge. 

“I’m sorry I’ve been ignoring everyone.” He muttered. As he pressed his face into her shoulder. “I’ve been incredibly selfish these past couple months and even before then. You’ve been there for my problems and I haven’t been there for yours, so I’m sorry.” He stated. 

“Oh Ebony you have nothing to apologize for. You guys have been having way worse problems to bothered worry about ours. We’re just venting, we’ll be fine once school is out but you guys...well...you know...” Belus trailed off not wanting to mention the unsavory topic. 

“That’s no excuse Belus.” Ebony shot back his voice cracking into a deeper octave. “It’s like mom always says: ‘above all else family is most important.’ I haven’t been treating you like family. More like a commodity to listen to me and be there when I need you. Again I’m sorry for that,” he continued. Ebony finally let Proteus go and looked over to them with a warm smile.

“Well it’s about time you said something you selfish brat.” Proteus laughed in what sounded more like a grow. She grabbed the prince and pulled him into her lap. Wrapping her legs around him to keep him pinned. “You better keep this promise to us Ebony,” She giggled too sweetly. She proceeded to run her fingers through his hair, pinch his cheeks, grope his face and anything else to annoy him. 

“So when we decide to go rock climbing in a few weeks or some other excursion, you’ll go? No more dodging or ignoring us?” She asked. 

“If I actually have time and I’m in the mood, absolutely,” Ebony responded. 

“Alright, that’s acceptable. What if we decide to take time every weekend for a get together like this?” She asked.

“I’ll make time to come unless I really can’t,” Ebony responded. 

“Alright does that sound like a good start to everyling?” Proteus asked, to which everyone nodded in agreement. With his promises made Proteus released Ebony from his captivity. However, he didn’t move from his spot; content to remain in her presence as he grabbed another cup of tea. 
“So back to more important things: who do you think Alexandrae has been seeing?” Ivory asked with a conspiring grin. Belus’s face lit up with delight as she quickly leads the conversation on theories about their aunt’s unusual behavior. Behavior that had become stranger this past year. 

So the family sat in the grass and gossiped over theories of their aunt’s possible dealings. Then the subject swiftly changed to Priamus’s more concrete flirtations with the captain of the guard, Typhoon. Apparently, things were getting serious between the two as they had been seeing the captain around out of uniform. As the last of the food was eaten they turned their attention to each other’s relationships both romantic and acquaintance. Exadeus, in particular, turned red like Belus’s hair at the mention of one of his classmates, they couldn’t get a name, though. Finally, as their large picnic had turned to crumbs and as the sun began to set from behind the glass walls the conversation returned to their lessons.

“So do you honestly have no idea what you’re going to do for a career no idea at all?” Ivory asked Belus. 

Belus pressed her finger to lip in thought but couldn’t think of anything. She shook her head in response. Ivory then looked over to Proteus for her answer. 

“Well, I think I’m going to look into becoming a governling.” She responded. 

“So if you know  what you’re going to do why are you so worried?” Ebony asked.

“Because it takes a long time to even be qualified to be a governling. You need at least five years in a public service position, at least one year in the military and at least three years as harvester,” She explained. “And that’s the bare minimum so you need a lot more to be realistically considered.” 

Ebony let out a whistle of admiration at the long list of demands for governling while Ivory turned to Exadeus. 

“Well, mom is pushing me to be a counciling like her. Alex is, of course, trying to get me to join the military. So maybe I’m leaning toward counciling?” He responded with a shrug.

“Okay well it sounds like that’s what they want you to do but what about you? What does Exadeus want to do?” Ivory elaborated. 

“Well… I don’t really know, I mean… I kind of do, I think what I want is a job away from the hive. Not that there’s anything wrong with it or I hate being here. It’s just there’s a whole world out there that I am dying to see.” He said eyes full of wonder. 

‘A whole world that would hate you if you couldn’t disguise yourself.’ Ebony thought bitterly but chose not to say it. 

“Hey, Proteus were you able to grab what asked you about?” Ivory asked turning to his cousin. 

“Got it right here.” She replied. She dug into a bag next to her and pulled out a half-empty bottle of red wine. Taking everyone's glasses she poured a bit of wine in each one to a little below halfway.

Suddenly Ivory stood up and held his glass aloft for a toast. “Everyone I propose a toast and a pact.” He stated. 

“Our mother’s and aunts have done great things for this Hive. Love flows freely through our kingdom, our Changelings are living better than they have before, we are living in a golden age of prosperity. Things seem to be improving for our people abroad. Papillia has been traveling more often to meet more leaders. I understand there are even talks to open an embassy in Canterlot.” Only Belus began clapping while everyone else stared at him in confusion. “My point is that our family was able to do these things because they worked together. Most queens end up killing their family for control of the crown but they stayed together and the hive has greatly benefited from this. So that’s what we need to do.” He continued. “So from this day forward we need to work together, all of us.” He iterated looking at Ebony who rolled his eyes. “Proteus I’m sure a letter of recommendation from a prince will be helpful and get you far in the selection process.” 

“That is if that Sub-Hive will even care about a letter from two Equestrians.” Ebony muttered. 

“Well if they don’t take value in our prince’s words then I don’t want to govern such a backward sub-hive.” Proteus smiled with a kiss on the top of Ebony’s head. 

“Exadeus we’ll help you find something to take you out of this Hive.” Ivory said to which Exadeus nodded in gratitude. “And Belus, well, we’ll figure out something together.” He smiled with a pat on her head. 

“And we’ll help you find these cutie marks and be the princes you were born to be.” Belus giggled. 

“Alright then a toast!” Ivory shouted raising his glass in the air. Everyone shot up and held out their own glasses. 

“To the future!” Ivory shouted, this time, his voice cracking.

“To family!” Proteus smiled proudly

“To the hive!” Ebony tried to roar but his cracking voice had betrayed him.

“To being leaders!” Belus chirped.

“To our Changelings!” Exadeus boomed. 

The group tapped their glasses together and proceeded to down the wine. 

As soon as the bitter drink touched their lips Proteus and Exadeus spat it out. Hacking at the taste of the strong drink. 

“Oh gods how does my mother drink this stuff?” Proteus shrieked spitting at the ground to get the taste out. 

“It tastes like rotten cranberry juice.” Exadeus moaned. 

Ebony and Belus hated the taste about as much but were able to contain their disgust and finish the glass. Though as soon as it was done they were keeled over spitting the taste out.

“How is this enjoyable? Why would anyone drink this?” Ebony cried furiously wiping his tongue.

“My tongue feels burned and sour.” Belus groaned spitting into the grass.

“I don’t know what you guys are complaining about, not that bad,” Ivory replied. Finding very little wrong with the alcoholic concoction.

“You’re going to be an alcoholic.” Ebony spat walking down the grassy knoll and back to the castle. With the rest of his family right on his heels craving for some water to cleanse their palates. 

“It wasn’t that bad…” Ivory muttered. 
> New Story
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The new story is up with the first chapter! Thank you for waiting and I hope you enjoy.Ebony and Ivory: Toward the Future