> Queen Mommy
>  by Evowizard25
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Hatching
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I like to think I am a great mother. Nay, I am the greatest mother who has ever lived. Who else could raise an entire species? Not any being I personally know of. Oh sure, I’ve heard of plenty of other gods creating their people and all that. Met some of them myself. It’s odd how they don’t want to stick around and care for them on a personal level. I’m glad I’m glad I’m not like that. No. I care for my changelings since the day I first laid my first clutch.

Of course, my changelings are their own people. I am their All Mother, but they are just my kin, not my children. The difference? They never had a father. I just laid them. This changeling queen doesn’t need a stallion to create life. I chalk that up to my parents chaos trickery messing with my biology. I didn’t mind. I loved them all, but they were not my children. Even if I knew all there names and the moment they were born. I am not one to brag. Okay, I am. Changeling babies are the cutest things in existence. So small and adorable. I’m glad I remember them all. It helps when they are all linked to me. 

I feel their collective love, sorrow, and pain. Every death, birth, and in between runs through me. Most would find it too much. I don’t. I revel in it, though the death portion is a bit much. I’ve come to terms with it.

The part I haven’t come to terms with is my own excitement. I’ve had generations of my kin, laying thousands of eggs at a time. Yet, I’ve never had any children. That is until now. Nestled snuggly between my forelegs were three beautiful eggs. Of course they were beautiful. They were mine. Although, they were a bit trickier to lay for some reason. Perhaps it’s because they are my children and I didn’t have my egg sac to help. The joys of being a mammal-like reptile. 

I nuzzled the eggs lovingly. These are my children. The first of their kind and...I want to see them so badly. Their eggs are perfect. I love their little oval shapes and how they occasionally rock about. I almost dropped dead from excitement when they first started moving. I almost scared the daylights out of their father when I rushed to him with the news. Well, that happened when i informed him I was pregnant too. He took it rather well. He didn’t faint or anything. He just took me in his big strong arms and twirled me around. 

I just love that big lug.

The eggs stirred a bit. They were doing that more often, especially the one with blue light inside. She was so hyper. I sometimes thought about putting her in a big fluffy container so she wouldn’t break herself. Helps that I was sitting on a comfy king sized bed. My hubby didn’t exactly want the populace to know about us. Well, not him really. We just didn’t want to scare everypony. They found me scary.

Just because I eat a few monsters and the like doesn’t mean I’ll hurt them...okay, I’ve eaten a few, but they were robbers. I didn’t mind if I had to hide. As long as Hurricane loved me, I didn’t care one bit. The orange one liked to smack anyone who came near her. Feisty, I’ll give her that. The purple one was so shy that sometimes she scared me. She wouldn’t move and she’d only light up when me or her father were there by ourselves and only when we kept her safe close to us. I’d have to keep a close eye on that little one. 

“Good day, little ones.” I purred to my eggs. “Mommy’s very happy to see you’re all so chipper today.” They lit up and I was so giddy. They were the literal lights of my life. “So adorable. You’re going to make great queens when you grow up.” I nuzzled them, making sure to keep my fangs from breaking one. The orange one smacked my nose again. It actually hurt. I pulled back and shook my head to clear the small pain. Thankfully, I can shut off my pain receptors and heal rather quickly given my nature.

“Bad Adagio,” I growled. “No hitting mommy.” 

Yes, I had already named them. The feisty one was Adagion Dazzle. The blue Sonata Dusk. The purple Aria Blaze. They were more pony sounding names, but since their father was a pony, I found them acceptable. I just hoped Puddinghead wouldn’t scare them with her impromptu party. Such an overzealous creature. Surprising given how droll earth ponies are. Still, she was nice and accepting. My babies would like her, or try and eat her. Probably both. 

Then I heard a sound I both dreaded and waited for. Something was cracking. Quickly running my head around them, I saw Sonata’s egg was breaking. I was stunned. I had seen my kin break out of their eggs so many times, but I didn’t know what to do. These were my children, not kin. “Sonata!” Then I saw the others start to shake. “You two as well?” I was hyperventilating. They were hatching, or I had just killed my children...Somehow.

“HURRICANE!” My voice shook our private castle to its core. There were few creatures that can yell as well or as loud as I. That’s probably because I’m a god, but I don’t care about that right now. My babies were hatching, or dying. They couldn’t die. I wanted to hug them and play little games. I wanted to be a mommy. Why are they hatching now?!!

The door was smashed apart without mercy. An honestly intimidating pegasus was standing in the room, having smashed the door to kingdom come. His dark purple frame was oh so muscular and large for a pegasus and his striped blue mane was hung loose over him. I’d have taken that sexy hunk right where he stood IF MY BABIES WEREN’T HATCHING!

“What’s going-”

“BABIES!” I cut him off, causing his ears to splay backwards to block out the screeching. 

“Babies?” He quirked an eyebrow before I pointed my muzzle at the twitching eggs. His eyes widened. “The babies are coming.”

Thank you, commander obvious. I growled inwardly, but I wouldn’t bare my fangs at my mate. I’d snap at anyone else who dared to come close to my young. Even my friends couldn’t. It’s just my instincts and they were screaming at me to protect these three. Still, I didn’t know what to do now. I was scared. I didn’t want to admit it, but I was. They could get hurt or worse. I kept my muzzled close to their shells and cooed softly. Hurricane stopped to lay in front of me and he did the same.

It’s funny seeing the same pegasus who would happily take on and slaughter a legion of griffins cooing to his little eggs. He was so adorable, I sometimes wonder why he picked me to be his mate. He could have had any pegasus mare. Hay, he could have any mare he wanted. Yet he chose me, the freak. I kissed his nose in gratitude for loving me, making me so strong. Yes, I had gathered such strength from him. I could easily take over this country, but I didn’t want to. I wanted to share this with him. These three little wonders. He smiled and kissed my nose in return, causing me to blush blue.

Changelings blush blue instead of red, it makes us cuter!

The first egg was smashed apart violently. A little blue...thing came out. It looked like a cross between a pony and a sea pony. With razor sharp teeth, scaly hide and fins, and two hooved limbs. It was a bit of a mismatch, like me and my family. She was gorgeous. “My little Sonata.” The little siren was already rolling around and giggling at nothing really. She didn’t seem to notice either of us yet. I just let her have her fun. Still, I put my nose close to her and took in her scent. 

Adagio’s was slower, but still held a lot of powers in her swings. The egg broke and she blinked in confusion. The orange...thing. looked around. “My little Adagio.” I put my nose close to hers and...Ow! I pulled back when the baby started laughing. She bit me and she’s laughing? She’s going to be a troublemaker. Hurricane was laughing, but I shut him up with a good glare. He knew his place. He was commander of his race, but I was his wife.

Pecking order.

The last egg was taking a long time to hatch. It was slow and there wasn’t a lot of power to the swings. I frowned and crooned. I put my muzzle close to the egg, as did Hurricane. Slowly and surely, the third purple thing emerged. I really need to name their race. “My little Aria.” The little thing was just so shy. She almost looked like she was going to cry in fear. The both of us slowly nuzzled her, reassuring her that she was safe. Thankfully, she didn’t cry but she still shook slightly in fear of this big unknown world.

My three little ones were finally free. Oh how proud I was of them. Their grandmother would just eat them up, as would my old babysitter. Their uncle… problematic. I thought about not telling him, but he’d find out eventually. I hate that draconequus. My father…. Mom would keep him controlled. I hope she could. I won’t let him use my children. No one will ever use them. EVER!

I had to keep my emotions in check. I have no idea what they could do to my young. Hmm… This is odd. It’s almost like their energy levels sparked when I got angry. Do they feed off of just anger, or any strong emotion? Perhaps I’m just overthinking this and it’s a coincidence, but young changelings only feed on love for the first year of their lives. Maybe this was similar. What am I doing? This wasn’t the time for that. I had some babies to cuddle. I gently brought them into my embrace and they eagerly cuddled into my chest. 

“They are strong,” Hurricane prided himself. His chest was puffed out in his macho way. So cute. 

“They are your daughters,” I smiled. They were falling asleep, listening to my heartbeat. Breaking those shells must have taken a lot out of them. I knew... I just knew that I would do anything for these little ones. Anything. “As they are also mine.”

“Of course they are,” Hurricane nuzzled Adagio, pulling back from a bite. “They take after their mother.” He dryly commented.

“I don’t bite,” I scoffed, to which he gave me a deadpan kind of look. “Okay, maybe I do a little.”

Hurricane shook his head and chuckled. “I don’t mind, but I think our daughter needs to be turned away from biting so much. I don’t think my hooves are going to take the abuse they’re about to receive.”

“Oh you worrywart,” I chuckled. “They won’t be that bad.” I was the perfect mother. I raised an entire species. Three beings, no matter if they were a completely new species, would be no challenge. 

> Waking Up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I don’t think I’ve ever known such peace. Here I was, next to my beloved mate and our children sleeping in our hooves. I… I just didn’t know what to say or do. This was so strange. All my life I knew what to do, whether it was my own decisions or my father’s orders. There was never a moment in time that I didn’t know exactly what to do. I was always in control.

Was this what love does? Does love make any bit of sense? Probably not. My whole family was made up of chaos deities, so my life never really made any sense. Sad really. I’m the only sane one amongst my family. I wasn’t going to let my daughters fall into their madness. No. They were going to be normal.

Normal little girls that will one day rule this pathetic little world! I can see it now. Their armies crushing the last bit of resistance and emerging victories. The cries of despair and woe of their enemies. Their victory shrieks. Oh so beautiful. My little ones were going to make mommy proud. Oh, I remember the first time I razed a planet clean of life.

Fun times. Sad that I can’t do it here, but my mate lives on this planet. Oh well, I can retire in peace. I’ve done a lot in my life, quite a bit I’m not proud of. Oh who am I kidding, I’m proud of most of it. The key word ‘most’. Even so, I didn’t want that life for my daughters.

Wait, do I want them to conquer or not? It’s in our blood. That’s what I was raised to do and it’s what my instincts tell me. Yet, my daughters aren’t gods like I am. Their father is a mortal, so they’re more susceptible from harm. They could be…

Killed. No, I was not going to allow that. They would not be sent on the missions my father sent me. Yes, I will train them to be queens and to conquer, but… I don’t know. I want to kill, to ravage, to destroy. I am a changeling, the first of my kind. They aren’t changeling. They were the first of theirs. I didn’t know what they would want. This is just too confusing. I felt something nudge my shoulder and I looked at my mate. Thankfully, Hurricane was a rather large stallion so I didn’t have to peer down all that much. 

“Something’s troubling you,” he stated.

I snorted. “Nothing gets by you, does it?”

“No,” Hurricane was a very direct stallion. He adored honesty, a concept I’m still getting used to. “I’m a Commander. It doesn’t pay to be unobservant in that position. So what is troubling you, my change?”

My change. It was his little nickname for me. It was cute. Simple, but cute and I loved it oh so very much. Still, I hesitated to voice my doubts. I bit my lip, not so hard that I would break the skin. I loved him and he’d understand. Of course he would. He found it in him to love me. Me! The queen of the changeling, devourer of worlds, and the grandest ruler that has ever lived. “I… Do you think we can do this?”

“Yes,” Hurricane snorted. “Are you having second thoughts?”

“No,” I quickly sputtered, careful not to raise my voice. I was not going to mar this day with scaring my young. “I just don’t know if I can do this properly. They’re the first of their kind and… All I’ve known is war and killing. I’ve taken care of my own kin before, but this? This is just…” I sighed and gave Sonata a gently nudge. The little one kept trying to crawl away in her sleep. Definitely going to give her a cradle with high walls. I’m just thankful they can’t fly. “Stay with mommy, Sonata.”

“You have the right attitude,” Hurricane noted and kissed my cheek. The way his fur feels against my leather skin is just so intoxicating. It’s leather, not chitin no matter how hard it can be. Mammal-like reptile for life. “You just need a little more confidence in yourself. Remember, you’re the mare who slaughtered a legion of griffins.”

“Isn’t that how these three came about?” I quirked an eyebrow. Hurricane was the kind of stallion who loved strong mares. More so, he loved a good fight. A female who could break the back of a griffin army was certainly something to ravage… 

So much ravaging~

“We’ll be a bit more careful next time,” Hurricane had a small blush on his cute. I couldn’t help but nuzzle him there. He was just so cute when he blushed. I wish he did it more often, but he’s a very stoic character. “Though I’m not complaining really.” He nuzzled little Aria who lay between his forelegs for protection. Both the others were laying about between mine, but Aria just seemed so vulnerable, even when she was asleep. “We’ll take this one step at a time.”

“Oh why do you have to do that?” I pouted.

“Do what?” He turned to face with. His eyes were brimming with curiosity. Most adorable conqueror ever.

“Make me fall deeper in love with you,” I stated. It was true, however cliche that was. His love gave me such strength that I could raze this planet and five more with nary a thought. I didn’t care much for the power no, however. Okay, I care about it quite a bit but I love my little Hurry Worry too much to do much with it right now. Unless, of course, someone attacks his country. Then I’ll have the go ahead to have some bloody fun. 

“I’m a master strategist,” Hurricane smirked. “I don’t think there’s anything I can’t do.”

I chuckled. He was just so sure of himself. Just like me. “Very true.” I happily captured his lips with my own and the age old ‘battle’ for dominance began. Oh he always wanted to be dominant. Sometimes he was, sometimes he was defeated soundly. Our tongues raced back and forth, vying for attention and victory. It was so intoxicating, exciting and… oh, I think I’m heating up again. Perhaps I’ll take him now. The kids are sleeping and-

They’re crying. Pulling back from the kiss so fast I was sure a mortal could get whiplash, I saw my little Sonata crying out and rolling on the ground. Adagio was crying, but it sounded more agitated than Sonata’s. Was she angry at her sister? That won’t do. Family, no matter how annoying, sticks together. I tolerate my brother… Somewhat. Okay, my daughters would be different. I sighed. They were hungry. 

I gagged and coughed as I brought up their breakfast. Thankfully, I had eaten a little griffin shortly beforehoof, so I had enough for the duo. They might garner a taste for griffin and try to hunt them down later in life, but I seriously didn’t care at that moment. Rather, I just didn’t care period. Some may call this vomit, but it’s actually cruse. It’s a changeling term for it. Yes, I made it up since I’m the first changeling, but it’s better sounding than vomit. My little ones didn’t seem to mind as they poked their heads within my jaws to scarf it down. I rumbled in my throat in encouragement. They were so adorable when they were feeding. 

Still, once they were finished, they were a bit messy. They needed to learn to eat properly. A future ruler is never messy, unless she’s covered in the blood and bits of her enemies. I picked them up by the scruff of their necks and trotted to the bathroom to clean them.

______________________________________________________________

There was only one thing I enjoyed about my wife leaving. Her behind jiggled rather pleasantly as she tended to sway her hips a bit as she trotted about. I have no idea if she did this intentionally or not. Perhaps she does just to mess with me. If so, very clever. Keep my focus on her sex appeal. I commend her spirit and attitude. Truly, I was wise to take this female as my own.

What surprised me was our offspring. I did not delude myself into thinking they would be normal ponies or changelings. Yet, I had thought they would be a combination of us both. These creatures? They were barely pony and I saw so little of their mother that it was a joke. Perhaps there is something to her title as ‘The Mother of Monsters’. I had never given it much thought till now. Foolish of me, given how many of her self-made children I’ve come across. 

Was this going to affect how I cared about them? I had to ask this of myself, just as I had to tear this thought apart. They were my children. There was no way to get around this. Thus, they would forever be under my protection. If someone dares to even hurt a single...scale? on their bodies, they will have to answer to me. That much I promise them. 

They will grow strong and proud. Grand warriors they will be. I can see it now. Slaughtering their enemies before them, making their parents oh so proud. Yes, I was going to make them my little warriors. Adagio showed much promise already. She had the makings of a warrior with her viciousness even in her early life. I don’t know what to think about the other two, but I have several decades to work something out. 

The little one before me was stirring. I frowned. Aria was a coward. A true warrior does not shy away from a foe, no matter if they are older and bigger. Perhaps that was just a thing she did when she hatched. Perhaps she really is a warrior at heart. My Aria opened her eyes and squealed in terror. She dived under the sheets and shook about in fear. 

I sighed. She was not a warrior. She was a coward. I would have to be extra observant for her. There is no telling how many beings out there in the world could use that cowardice against her. I was going to have to keep an extremely close on my daughter. I put my muzzle at the edge of the blanket. “Come on out, Aria. It’s just your father.”

She shook some more and I quirked an eyebrow. “Do you really find me that terrifying?” I had a little experience with newborns, given how mares wanted me to bless their children to be strong warriors, so I kept my voice nice and gentle. Even warriors needed a soft touch here and there. 

The shaking stopped. “I will not hurt you. You have my word on that and a warrior’s word is law.” Eventually, I saw my little one slither back on over to me and poke her head out. Her big eyes stared up at my own and I could see fear in them. I could see fear, but I could also see curiosity and hope. I gently scooted forward until my muzzle was just in front of her. She could do the rest.

Little Aria sniffed me before touching my nose with a hoof. She tilted her head and moved her own muzzle towards mine. Then she started to purr. It was so strange and garbled, like she was under water. Maybe those fins really do mean something. Either way, my daughter wanted affection. She would receive it. So I gently nuzzled back and she giggled.

My daughter was a coward, but I loved her more than life itself already. The world is full of things that could hurt this little one. I was going to have to break the world’s back. It is a father’s duty to care for their own and this little one needed me the most. 

“Stay where I can see you, Aria. That’s the safest place in the world.” 

> Meeting the Nice Ones
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Let it be known that I love my wife. I love her more than war itself. I gave up my nightly pursuits for her and given how they were akin to war in satisfaction, that’s saying something. Of course, I wouldn’t give up the thrill of battle. Thankfully, she was the same in that regard.

Yes, I loved her. I didn’t fully understand her though. There were many little things that could unnerve her, like insinuating she had anything to do with bugs and a general loathing of the sea. There were other little things that could please her greatly, such as chocolate and ginger. It was a treacherous path for me to court her and she still keeps me on my hooftips. Right now though, I had to contend with one of her more fiercer traits.

I knocked on our shared bedroom door. It was naturally large, from when I would entertain a dragoness or two in my younger years. “Chrysalis, the delegates are here.” A loud, threatening hiss, not unlike a snake’s, came from within. I sighed, “Chrysalis, this is not the time for this foolishness.”

“Foolishness?” Chrysalis growled. “My babies need their mommy. I can’t just leave them. What if someone tries to hurt them?”

“I have the best guards in the kingdom,” I responded. “No one is getting in or out of this room without my consent.”

“That’s what you say,” Chrysalis spoke. I could hear clear panic in her voice. She always got like this when someone other than myself and her came near the children. “What if they want to kidnap them to force our hooves? What if they want to kill them for being abominations? What if-”

“You’re overthinking this,” I snorted. “I have entertained these little delves into insanity, but you must see reason. They would never try to harm our children and do you really think we would let them if they tried? Do you think they could defeat us?”

If it was just me and my troops, it would be a very difficult battle for the other two tribes if that was so. We controlled the skies. They had the ground. Oh they had ways to get to us and we would have losses, but if they won, it would be phyric. With my wife and her changelings, victory was assured. Well, unless you factored in Starswirl and the two sisters. I...don’t want to think about facing them. 

“Of course not,” I could practically see her sneering. “I am Queen Chrysalis, devourer of worlds and goddess of change and birth. They know better than to face me, but….”

“You could take them with you if you want,” I said. 

“...Oh right,” Chrysalis was a little forgetful sometimes. She was a beautiful warrior, but a tactician? She had her moments. I heard some soft mewls from my children and a few hushed whispers from my wife. Before my curiosity prompted me to break down this door, she opened it. Had I been a mere fledgling pegasus, I would be drooling right now. She was wearing an elegant black and dark green dress that was both intimidating and breathtaking at the same time. I had to remind myself our children were present or I would have ripped that dress off and taken her right there.

Speaking of which, my children were dressed in cute little blue dresses and bonnets. They were held in a leather pouch held on her side, which matched her dress perfectly. I would have preferred something more aggressive in nature, but I shall still my tongue. “Perhaps I should have been forewarned. I was not expected such attire.”

“Are you disappointed?”

“Quite the opposite,” I gave her a quick kiss. Pulling back reluctantly, I bowed my head. “Shall I lead the way?”

“Always,” Chrysalis smiled. The children garbled a bit, as if they were trying to talk to us. They very much could be, given how my wife claims changeling mature quicker than ponies. Sonata was doing her best to get out. Chrysalis rolled her eyes and gently bopped Sonata’s head with her snout, stilling her. “Be still, my little Sonata. Everything’s alright.” Sonata smiled and batted at her muzzle a bit, earning a giggle from wife. She had an unusually cute giggle for a creature like herself.

If all went well, the others would think they were as cute as I did. If not, well, I’m quite skilled with a blade.

______________________________________________________________________

If there is one thing I hate more than those pesky griffins, it’s pony nobility. At least with the griffins and other barbarous races they’ll be straightforward in their aggression. Ponies? No, they want to hide behind their precious titles and niceties. Bah, at least the pegasi are better. The only reason why I’m going to this stupid party is because of my husband. Someone has to keep him from killing the rest of them, or is it the other way around? 

As long as my children were safe, I didn’t care. I was going to march into that room and wow them. How could I not? I was the most beautiful creature in all the world. None could match my splendor and soon, neither could they match my daughters’ own. 

We were about to make our grand entrance. Everything was in place. These fools were about to see the grandest ruler to have ever graced this pathetic floating rock. Hmph, I’ve been to far more pleasant planets than this one. It’s just my luck I’d have to deal with ponies here. It doesn’t matter anyways. They were going to adore me. I grinned and prepared myself for the adoration, or ‘attempted’ mockery. Either way, I’d get a good laugh.

My smile was swept away when I heard little Aria whimper. I quickly turned my head, bending it to stay close to my daughters. Aria was trying to hide herself and for the life of me, I didn’t know why. How could our spawn be so timid? I’ll have to work on that as she grows older. I crooned softly. “It’s alright. No one’s going to hurt you. Mommy’s here.” Aria poked her little, cute head out and looked to me for support. I smiled and kissed her small muzzle. “You’re going to be alright. I Ouch!” 

I pulled back and wrinkled my nose. Adagio giggled with a face full of triumph while Sonata laughed and clapped her little forehooves. “You two are diabolical,” I smirked. “I love it. Watch your sisters, Aria. This is how a proper carnivore acts.”

The doors opened as an announcer called out,” Presenting Commander Hurricane of the Pegasi tribe and Queen Chrysalis, charge of the changelings.” 

Regaly and with purpose, we strode forth. There was little love here and I knew I would go hungry tonight if that was all I tried to eat. Love for oneself was hardly appetizing as it was all inward, with nothing but scraps you couldn’t even laugh at. Perhaps that’s for the best. The food of nobility is disgusting. Give me a fresh boar anyday. 

“QUEENY!” Oh...dear. It’s her. Of course it’s her. She had to be here. She’d never miss out on a party. I turned my head to see Chancellor Puddinghead hop on over to us. “I’m so glad you could make it. For a moment, I thought you were going to skip out on the party, which would have been terrible.” 

I rolled my eyes. Puddinghead was a strange mare from a strange tribe. She was always so hyper and full of life. She was a juicy source of love, even though it was a bit tainted by racial bigotry. Not nearly enough to make me sick or come anywhere close to most of the others present, but there was a sliver of it still. Perhaps she would just hold on to that for the rest of her life. I didn’t think she would, but I’m a bit of a pessimist. 

I could never rightfully place the earth tribe. They were so odd. I mean, they ‘elected’ their rulers. Elections? I’ve seen that on a few worlds and it never sat right with me. Rulers should be born into it and shaped through life. Just putting some being on the throne, even if everyone wanted them there, would always lead to trouble. They’d see the errors of this form of government soon enough. 

“It’s good to see you, Puddinghead.” It was, honestly. While she did have that sliver of bigotry, it was directed towards the other two tribes and even then, she had a few non-earth friends. It’s just that she was amongst the few, less than ten, ponies that liked me despite my kind’s history. 

Puddinghead moved her head to the side to spy my little ones. “Seems like you to have been busy.”

“Perhaps a tad,” I nodded. Other than a few bites and chasing Sonata for a few hours, it had been a breeze so far. I wonder how long that will last. 

“So are they more changeling or pony?” She asked.

I frowned. “Well, we’re not sure. So far, they’ve responded well to solid food, but I haven’t felt any love leaching as one would expect from changeling newborns.”

Puddinghead nodded. She had been getting better with changeling customs and dietary practices. She was such a strange mare, so none of it really phased her. “Well whoever they take after, it doesn’t matter. I’m sure it will work out. The only question I really have is why are they so adorable~” 

“They get it from me,” I beamed.

“It’s very much true,” a calm and familiar voice spoke up. I turned my head to see the Celestia, with her flowing pink mane, walking up to us. “I remember when I first saw her. She was just the most adorable creature you could ever meet.”

I groaned, but kept a smile to my face. If there was one goddess I could trust, it was Celestia. She helped raise me after all. “I thought you were too busy to attend, what with all the monsters about.”

“Too busy to see you?” Celestia chuckled as we neck hugged. She pulled back and gave me a motherly smile. “Never. Besides, I want to see the little ones.” If there was one thing Celestia adored most of all, it was children and babes. She leaned her head closer. “Hello, I’m Celestia. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

My little ones garbled, with Sonata eagerly trying to touch Celestia. She giggled and nuzzled them. She’s lucky I adore her, or I’d have bitten her horn off. It seemed they felt the same way. Even Aria was eagerly nuzzling her. It pays to be the goddess of the sun and motherhood, it seems. Of course, it ended as well as I had thought it would. “Ouch,” she pulled back her muzzle and snorted. “It seems one of them is taking after you.”

I laughed and nuzzled her. “My little Adagio is a warrior in the making. She’ll be ruling this world in no time.” The others just rolled their eyes. Fools! Just because we are friends doesn’t mean I won’t rule you all someday! You will rue not taking me seriously. RUE IT! “It would seem that Luna and Platinum aren’t attending.” Good. I hated the both of them so much. 

Celestia sighed. “Luna wished to keep fighting on the frontier and Platinum… Well, she’s Platinum. I believe she needs more time to get used to this tribal union.”

“Perhaps that’s for the best,” I snorted.

“Now Chrysalis,” Celestia adopted a bit of a stern expression. 

“I know,” I cut her off. “I know, but I hardly see this as my fault. They started it and unless they have a miraculous change of heart, I don’t care for either of them. Isn’t that right, Hurricane?....Hurricane?” I turned my head to see him drinking over the by punch bowl. A horde of mares surrounding him. I growled and stormed over to him, mock biting at the mares to drive them off. 

“I thought you needed a bit of space to talk with your friends,” he answered me before I could even utter a word. He was good at doing that. 

“Which I thank you for that,” I nodded. “But I would prefer if my husband stood by my side the whole of this pathetic pony party.”

Hurricane nodded. It was clear he didn’t care for all this formality either. “Very well, perhaps I can garner a bit of conversation with Celestia about the western front. It’s been giving me trouble as of late.”

I smiled. War was always on his mind. That’s a reason I loved him. “You do that. Take heed, my precious ones, your father is a war…” My eyes widened as I turned my head around. They were gone! My little ones were gone! Did they teleport? Can they teleport in the first place? Did someone teleport them away? Impossible. I enchanted this carrier myself. So the question is WHERE ARE MY BABIES?!! I’ll tear this whole place apart if I have to find them.

Thankfully, I heard their cute little squeals of joy nearby. I grumbled as I spied them in the forehooves of Celestia, being tenderly nuzzled. “Who’s cute? Who’s cute? You’re all cute.” It was no secret Celestia loved children. I did too, but I was much better at hiding it. I didn’t just spring out of my throne to cuddle a baby… okay, I do, but that’s not important. 

“Celestia,” I trotted over. “What are you doing?”

She pouted. “I couldn’t help myself. They’re just so adorable and they were practically begging for a good cuddling.” Well, Sonata and Aria looked like they enjoyed it. Adagio was glaring up at Celestia with the most endearing gaze a babe could muster. Needless to say, it didn’t help her case because I felt her love. She loved this, but she was just like mommy. We’re far too proud to admit such things. Perfect queen material. 

I rolled my eyes. “Alright, you have five minutes.” Celestia practically squee’d and got to work. I wonder if this was how my mother felt when she had Celestia babysit me when I was a babe. If so, she had my sympathy. 

> Going To The Sea
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am scared of nothing. I’m queen of the changeling. There was nothing on land that could contest my might, but there was something that irked me. I just had to settle on a planet mostly covered with water. I just had to. I had oceans. They’re scar-NO! Nothing scares me. They’re just unsettling is all. I could drown. I know I can just change my form to fit the sea, but I always found that uncomfortable. The same for my kin. So that’s why I created water-lings to conquer the seas for me. I just haven’t visited them in a while, which made this trip strange in many regards. 

“Why do we have to go to the sea again?” I asked my husband. I was busy keeping my little ones cozy and secure. They weren’t going to drown on my watch, stupid oceans. 

“Because we don’t know exactly what our kids are, Chrysalis.” Hurricane noted, polishing his blade intently. A warrior’s weapon is his life and my husband has a fine life indeed. I’ve seen him carve into the hide of a dragon once with that blade. I’d thank the unicorns, if they didn’t constantly think of my kin as bugs. “They look like sea ponies in some respects, so it might shed some light on what we need to do.”

“We’re doing fine on our own,” I huffed. He was being unreasonable. We could take care of our young already. I mean, Adagio and Aria were nestled up beside me and…. “Sonata?” I did a double take and found her missing. My baby was missing! 

“Chrysalis,” Hurricane knew me well and knew I was probably going to try and rip apart the essence of existence to find my daughter. He was right of course. “Calm down.”

Oh those were a very poor choice of words. “Calm down? Calm down?!! How dare youuuu!” Everything felt like it was falling. My babies were screaming. I hated that sound. I wanted to hug them close, but I had to find Sonata. I quickly passed them to their father. He’d slay anyone who’d come close. 

With a flick of my horn, the door was burst off its hinges. I didn’t care how expensive this whole thing was. Such thoughts are so ‘pony’. I stuck out my head and the first thing I saw was a shrieking pegasi tumbling to the earth. It was a rather speedy descent, since he was outpacing our own descending carriage. I didn’t care. I and my family would just fly out and we’d get another guard. No, what caught my attention was the blue blue at the base of one of his wings. Blue blur? Blue…. BLUE!!

I grabbed the both of them with my magic and yanked them up. My poor baby. She must be so scared. I was going to hug her and never let her go. Thankfully, she was alright. She was giggling as she slashed the flesh away with her teeth of the base of that pegasus’ wing. Adorable~

“M-my queen,” the pegasus guard grunted as we kept descending. “Could you get her off of me?”

I nodded and took my beloved daughter away from her prey. Pegasi weren’t as tasty as some believe, but they were okay. She whined, but I gave her a little nuzzled and tossed the pegasus away. 

“Uhem,” Hurricane called out from inside. He must have heard the scream.

I sighed and brought the pegasus back up. I breathed over the wound, healing it with my special brand of genetic magic. It’s a special kind that only changelings can do, which healed the wound instantly. “Fly us to safety,” i then threw him towards the front and went back inside. Within less than a moment, we were straight again so I sighed in relief.

My husband wasn’t so lucky, since Adagio kept biting his muzzle. He pushed her down and kept her in place, away from his nibbled muzzle. “You are not a commander yet, Adagio.” Hurricane gave her a stern glare which quelled her fire. “You have no power over me and you best remember that.” She whimpered, but he gave her a little reassuring pat on the head. “But you will one day.” The little one smiled and nuzzled his hoof.

“Awww,” I smiled. It was good to see him getting along with the trio. For a while, I thought he wouldn’t. Not to say that my Hurry Worry is a bad stallion, far from it actually. It’s just, I was being a big ol’ worrywart about my babies. It’s just my instincts. Speaking of which, I need to find a way to curb my daughter’s predator instincts. Sonata was enjoying that pegasus’ wing a bit too much. I licked away the blood from her, causing her to giggle. Such music.

Little Aria was curled around herself, huddled against her father. “Aria, one must overcome their fear, not dwell on it.” Hurricane spoke to her. He used his wing to gently pick her up and nuzzle her. I picked the perfect stallion to sire my young. He’s such a good father. “Besides, you have me as a father, don’t you? I won’t let some fall hurt you.” Aria shook for a few seconds in fear, before smiling and giving him a little nuzzle. “Perhaps I was a bit too hasty to go on this trip.” He sighed. 

I chuckled and nuzzled the cute oaf. “You’re just trying to help. I have to admit, I am curious as to what these ‘sea ponies’ can do to help us. My kind has never really interacted with them, with the exceptions of a few rare cases.” One becoming a fairy tail in its own right.

“I give you my word,” Hurricane bowed his head. “Everything will go- Adagio!”

At the frightened squeal, I turned my head to see Adagio had pinned Sonata down and was growling at her. I frowned and used my magic. “Adagio, your sister didn’t mean to make us fall. She’s sorry, aren’t you Sonata?” My little Sonata nodded and I gave her a reassuring nuzzle. “I will not tolerate you fighting each other, understood?” Adagio growled and tried to bite me, before I hissed in warning. She shut up and nodded. 

“It’s a wonder how quickly they’ve come to understand us,” Hurricane furrowed his brow.

“They are my children,” I smiled and cooed to calm Adagio and let her know that I still loved her. “Of course they would grow a bit faster than most.”

__________________________________________________________________

Every time the waves crashed against the shore, I had to stop myself from flinching. I will not give it the gratification. I am Queen Chrysalis. None scare me! My children on the other hoof seemed drawn to the ocean for some reason. I had to keep them restrained with my hooves and magic. They weren’t going to drown in that infernal place on my watch. “How much longer must we wait?”

“Not long,” Hurricane stood proudly, with twenty-five pegasi at his beck and call. I wanted to bring some of my changelings, but then again, that might not have set well with the sea-ponies. Hurricane’s pegasi were great soldiers, so I had no doubt they would give those swimmers some trouble if it came down to a fight. 

Suddenly, something erupted from the water. It was some weapon or something. Never trust something with ‘sea’ in the name! I was going to blast it into smithereens and… oh it was just a flying fish. 

Still horrendous though, accursed sea creature. 

I was about to scold my husband for picking the wrong place, when something burst out of the water. I could tell right away they were sea-ponies. Their bodies were long and scaly, with elegant fins on their sides. Their muzzles were lithe, hardly suited for tearing into flesh. The leader, the one wearing the most gold ornaments and was a blazing bright blue so I’ll just go on a hunch here, spoke up. 

“Ah, Commander Hurricane. On time as always,” he remarked.

“Only death can make me break my word,” my husband remarked. “And even then it would struggle in its efforts.”

The sea-pony then turned his head towards me and frowned. “Queen Chrysalis, I presume?”

“The one and only,” I narrowed my eyes. A creature of the sea is never to be trusted, what with their watery ways. 

“And those are your children?” 

“Get to the point, sea-pony.” I snarled, keeping my children close. 

“Bring them to me,” I beckoned me forth with a fin.

How dare he beckon me over! I am queen of the changelings. This cur ought to bow down to me and do as I wish. I shall not hoof my children over to this sea dwelling wretch. I was about to blast this creature when I felt my husband’s hoof on my shoulder. When I looked at him, he gave me a warm, comforting smile. He only ever gives me that smile and it just makes me feel so warm inside. His love is just so delicious and I just want to hug him so much for loving me, the big lug. I sighed and trotted over to him. I placed my children near the edge, but not to near and backed up a couple spaces. If he tried anything, I’d still be able to kill him.

The sea-pony leaned forward and closed his eyes. A blue aura seemed to flow over him and then my children. I kept myself calm. They were alright, even if Aria was shivering in fear. She did that with strangers. Sonata was just giggling at the sensation and Adagio-

“GAH!” The sea-pony screeched in pain as Adagio lunged and bit into his muzzle. The two flapped into the water...  They were both in the water.

“MY BABY!” I jumped up to my hooves. Why were they constantly being put in danger today? I don’t know, but my baby was in the ocean. She could drown! DAMN OCEANS. They’re too big for their own good. “Get my baby. Get my baby!” I wanted her back, but I couldn’t get near that sea. 

Hurricane made to jump in, but the sea-pony quickly surfaced, carrying Adagio in an outstretched fin. His muzzle had several gashes in it as blood dripped down into the ocean. “Your daughter has inherited your fire.”

I took Adagio in my magic and cuddled her to my chest. “Of course she does.”

“I will like to say that I’ve learned a thing or two already,” the sea-pony remarked, rubbing his bleeding muzzle. “Saves me the trouble of getting near them again today.”

“And?” Hurricane asked as he too nuzzled Adagio. The little girl allowed us to nuzzle her without biting this time. That would change in a moment, I’m sure of it. 

“They have inherited their mothers need for emotions,” the sea-pony spoke. “There was a hole inside them that I’ve only seen in changeling, but it was different. It was strange and not yet formed.”

“So I should be feeding them love?” They seemed to be going fine with solid food. Baby changelings can’t handle the stuff so soon after birth. They just need a steady supply of love to get going. 

The sea-pony shook his head. “It was… different, but for now, they’ll just need the usual meat and such. This emotional feeding doesn’t look like it’s going to come to the forefront any time soon. Still, it’s also troubling how closely they align with us. Were you…” He seemed uncomfortable with what he intended to say.

I rolled my eyes. “No, I wasn’t a sea-pony when we had sex.” 

The sea-pony sighed in relief. Rude much? “Then I’ll just assume this is a normal changeling thing.”

I nodded. “Changeling unions with other species have… unusual results.” I hesitated for a moment. “So you’re sure they’re healthy?”

“Healthy is subjective,” the sea-pony muttered. “With their current bodies, I’m going to have to recommend frequent trips to the sea.”

“THE SEA?!!” I held my daughters close to me. Why did it have to be this place? Accursed luck!

“They are natural born swimmers,” the sea-pony remarked. “We’ll need to teach them a few things and I assure you that they’ll be safe.”

“Flooran has always been a sea-pony of his word,” Hurricane said. “I trust him on this. If our children need to learn to swim, then I’ll allow it.” He chuckled. “Perhaps it’s time I practiced a bit of swimming myself.”

“But... “ I gulped, taking a look at the foreboding body of water. Cursed place, it is. 

He nuzzled underneath my chin, causing me to purr in contentment. I just loved the way he felt against me. “I’ll be there with them the whole time.”

That made me feel much better about this. “Perhaps I’m just being silly.” I sighed and gazed down at my children. They were staring up at me with little smiles on their faces. I teared up a bit. They were mine. This was all mine, a family. “Perhaps I should let go of my own fears, for my children’s sake.” I nuzzled them and they returned it eagerly. This certainly was going to be interesting. 

> The Garden
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I sometimes wish all the world could be a garden. It would be so relaxing and I wouldn’t have to endure the stuffy indoors. Of course, my own kingdom’s insides were quite relaxing, but that’s only if you’re a changeling. Other species don’t have our refined taste. Yet, even such finery couldn’t compare to a good bed of grass and the sun high above, warming my back as I watched my children play. I felt at peace. 

Thinking about how content I was with this, I couldn’t help but chuckle. I used to slaughter entire world, gorging on flesh and the like with such glee. How did I ever become so tame? I blame ponies. They seem to bring out the best in everything, for better or worse.

They slithered on the ground like snakes, hissing and tackling each other. Well, Adagio and Sonata were. They were born fighters, but Aria… she was cowering within my forelegs. This was their first time outside and she hadn’t taken to it well yet. I really need to teach her to be more open and outgoing. No prodigy of mine will grow up a coward, but I wasn’t going to ruin her day. 

I nuzzled my little purple… thing. I really need to come up with a name for them. Thankfully, I am quite clever so it shouldn’t be a problem. “Aria, don’t  you want to play with your siblings?” She mewled in response and backed up further into me. I sighed. I needed to think of something and do it quickly. At this rate, she’d become a second Pansy. How that mare could be related to my hunk is beyond me.

Thankfully, we were out in the gardens. There is one thing I’ve learned over the years. Changelings, while excellent at scouring a planet of all life, are rather good with nature. Perhaps it’s because we’ve devoured and used so many bits of DNA in our castes that we just know how all life works. We eat something and we gain it’s knowledge and abilities. Quite useful. 

I looked up to see a few birds. Funny creatures, birds. They could be so cuddly, but so cruel. Perhaps the cruelest of them all and I loved them for their tenacity. Their ancestors would be proud of them, if not disappointed they didn’t rule this world like they did. I held up a hoof and called out. I didn’t use words. I just sang a tune. There were no words or any real ways to describe it, not that any mortal could. To put it bluntly, I was speaking to the bird’s very soul, peacefully calling to it. 

The bird listened, flying down and landing on my hoof. “See, Aria?” I brought it closer to my daughter, but not too close. “This is a bird. He’s not going to hurt you.”

Little Aria gazed at the bird with a cute, curious expression. She looked up at me for support and I smiled up at her. She steeled herself like the good girl I know she is. She even put on a brave face. It didn’t really look brave, just silly, but I appreciated the effort. Then, she moved her head closer to the bird. She didn’t touch it, just looked at it. That is, until the bird chirped and went over and nuzzled her. She squeaked and moved her head down.

“She was saying hello,” I chuckled, giving her a loving nuzzle of my own. “It’s rude not to say hello back.”

Aria looked a bit down at that, so she tried again. This time, she touched the bird lightly with her snout. The bird chirped, nuzzling again. This time Aria smiled and giggled. My child took the bird, I think it’s a Bluebird if I remember the local name, into her arms. I beamed at the sight. She was getting stronger already. 

However, the peace didn’t last. I heard something similar to my song, but it was different. It was harmonic, but wrong. Like a musician trying to mimic someone but also trying to be so different. I looked over to my other two girls who were trying to sing to. I furrowed my brow. There was something different to it. While my songs could connect to another lifeform, this one seemed to grab another without consent. 

The birds, beside the one in Aria’s arms, were clumsily being forced to crash near them. What ever are they… Oh dear. I know those looks. I have those looks when I’m hungry. “Girls, do not-” I quickly put a hoof over the bird and Aria’s eyes and used my magic to make sure she couldn’t hear the carnage. 

The two were certainly owning up to their carnivorous nature and I couldn’t help but feel a tad bit proud. Why wouldn’t I? I’m a predator too. It’s just that I wanted this outing to be without bloodshed. I didn’t even get to teach them to hunt yet. That’d be soon and I’ll have to make sure they don’t try this again. As well, they were making a mess. Adagio was making quick kills, mostly biting heads off with some throat ripping. Brutal but effective. She was shaping up to be a perfect predator. Sonata, well, she was taking her time. 

There was just a joyful malice to her. She was tearing out feathers, making slashes along the bird's legs and chest, pulling limbs off. Just anything she could do to make them suffer and she was laughing. It was rather disturbing. I’m not one to play with my food. You kill it and eat it. That’s it. Perhaps she got a little too much of her grandfather. I couldn’t help but cringe. Beings of chaos were notorious for their cruel personalities, my brother Discord included. I can recall all the times he tormented others, but he didn’t kill them or… eat them like Sonata was. She was a bit different.

I was going to have to curb some of that soon enough. “Sonata, we do not play with our food.” 

“You took them hunting without me?” I heard my husband’s voice come up from behind. I grinned as I turned around and he kissed my cheek. “I thought we agreed to do that together.”

“We did,” I said, nodding towards the bloody duo. “They decided otherwise.”

Hurricane nodded and then looked down at little Aria with her bird. “And she’s not eating her bird, because…?”

“I think she wants to keep it,” I huffed. “I don’t think I’ve seen such a scared creature since your niece.”

Hurricane frowned. “She will not grow up like Pansy. I love that mare, but my daughter will be strong and proud.” He fixed Aria with a hard stare. “You’re going to be strong, Aria. If I have it my way, you’ll be the strongest of us all.” He sighed when Aria hid her face behind her bird. 

“Perhaps you put a bit too much edge in your voice,” I chuckled, nuzzling him. “She’s not a warrior yet.”

“She will be,” Hurricane smiled and it was a warm kind that only I and my daughters ever saw. “But for now, she can be my little flower.”

“Flower?” I quirked an eyebrow. Why would he compare her to a plant? Ponies are strange.

“Because she’s delicate and beautiful,” he answered. “Like a daisy.” He frowned. “That will of course be changed. She will be a warrior.”

“Am I a flower?” I grinned.

“A rose,” he kissed me. Oh how I love the feeling of his lips and the surge of love that comes with it. “Beautiful and always ready to harm another.”

“I like it,” I giggled, keeping myself close. Little Aria held up her bird as if she wanted her daddy to welcome him. 

Hurricane rolled his eyes and nuzzled the bird, “Yes, that’s a nice bird, Aria.” Aria giggled and pulled the bird back. Finally, Adagio and Sonata came over to us, covered in blood and feathers. I quickly used a spell to clean them off. “Excellent technique, Adagio. Always go for the kill. Sonata…” He sighed as the bloated babe fell asleep. “She’s her own set of problems. By the way, was that them singing just a moment before?”

I frowned, remembering their singing. There was something off about it. Then the pain came. Changelings can stand pain. It makes us sick, so I had cut it off. Yet, they seemed stronger after it all. It was almost like the misery and fear gave them power. I would dwell on that later. “Yes, it seems they want to sing like their mommy.”

“Now won’t that be something,” Hurricane chuckled. He wrapped the other two daughters in his winger and nestled himself next to me. His fur bristled against mine in a pleasing fashion and I regurgitated some meat to feed little Aria. She wouldn’t go hungry either, but it seems my little darlings can eat solid meat. At least, somewhat. They were going to get sick, so I’ll need to get some of the Nurse cast to watch over them. Still, that was then. Now I just stayed in the garden with my family. We just sat there, enjoying some peace and quiet. There was honestly no other place I’d rather be and I wished, oh how I wished this could last forever. 

For my children’s sake, I hope it would. My own childhood was… turbulent. They weren’t going to suffer, not on my watch. They would always be under my watchful eye and no one was going to change that. 

> Luna's Not the Nicest Pony Around
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

This whole thing was ludicrous. In fact, I’d say it was an affront to everything Equestria stood for. We stood for peace and unity. How were we supposed to be the best of the best if we housed monsters? It was asking for trouble. Yet so few listened to me, not even my sister. She never listens to me, the ungrateful swine. I’m the one out in the dark forests fighting monsters all the time. What is she doing?

Staying in doors and playing nice with the nobles. Who cares what the nobles think? They should just be happy we aren’t tyrants and do whatever they like. I ought to behead a few to teach them a lesson. Well, a few more. What happens outside the castle walls is none of their business. Perhaps my sister would finally listen to me today. The griffins were gearing for war, I was certain of it. Now was not the time for a soft-heart. 

Just then, I felt something smack into my leg. I looked down to see… three things I’ve never seen before. They looked like an ugly cross between a horse and a fish. I scowled, “Vermin, how did you get here?” I knew they were probably just animals and it didn’t matter whether I asked or not. I just thought it prudent to ask before I killed the little beasts. 

The blue and purple ones squeaked in fear and hid behind the yellow beast. The little thing had the gall to growl at me, displaying such feeble carnivorous teeth. I harrumphed, “You think that scares me, little one?” Calling out to the shadow domain, my trusty mace was called up and floated in the air besides me. “Do you really believe battle is the answer, little beast? Do you think you can defend the others?” The beast seemed to nod and growled louder. 

I narrowed my eyes and lowered my head closer to it. “I say, leave now, or I shall-” I let out a yell as the beast latched onto my nose. I pulled my head back and grabbed it with my magic, tearing it off and throwing it into a stone column. I would have enjoyed the screech of pain, but my nose was bleeding. I had to use some magic to heal it. “You little beast!” My voice shook the castle as I glared at them. How dare they strike me. The other two huddled around the orange one. Good. Makes it easier for me.

Before I could strike, a section of wall not far ahead of me burst open. A howling screech that even sent shivers down my spine was cast into the air. Whatever this beast may be, I shall face it. Low and behold, the worst beast imaginable comes forth, “Chrysalis.”

“Luna,” Chrysalis, the Tartarus filth, growled at me. She walked forward, like she was ready to pounce at a moment’s notice. She cast her gaze at the three little beasts and her eyes widened. “My children…. You hurt my children.”

I quirked an eyebrow, “Your children? They look nothing like you.”

She growled, bounding over to them. She swiftly nuzzled them, but stopped when she saw the bruised orange one. “You….. YOU!” Her horn was flaring as she turned to give me her best glare.

I will not let her know that it unnerves me, “I thought they were vermin.”

“My children are not vermin, you stuck up, lunar bitch.” Chrysalis hissed. 

“How dare you,” I scowled. “If I had known-”

“You’d have done the same, you heartless cow.” Chrysalis took a step closer. 

How dare she say such a thing? Does she not know how lucky she is? If it was up to me, she’d be dead already. She’s just biding her time. She’ll try and kill us all. Why can’t my sister see it? Why can’t any of these idiots see it? Why are they so blind? Why does no one EVER listen to me?!! I’ll show them. 

“Stop,” my sister’s voice halted our would be battle. She was scowling. She didn’t do that often. “What is going on here?”

“She harmed my Adagio,” Chrysalis growled, keeping herself in between me and the little things. 

“Luna,” my sister’s tone was disapproving.

“I thought they were vermin,” I huffed, stowing away my mace in the shadows. “How was I supposed to know it was hers? Everything that comes out of that womb looks like a nightmare.”

“You’re one to talk,” Chrysalis hissed.

“What did you say?” Perhaps I’d retrieve my mace.

“Enough,” Celestia glared at the both of us. “Luna, I want you to apologize.”

“Me?” I scoffed. “I did nothing wrong.” My sister’s glare turned for the worse. So I had to reluctantly say it, “Fine. I’m sorry.”

“Good, you may go now.” Celestia said.

“Gladly,” I snorted. This isn’t over, Chrysalis.

___________________________________________________________________

I sighed as my sister stormed off. She had been getting increasingly difficult over the last few months. It was almost like talking with a different pony at times. It’s probably nothing serious. The constant attacks on Equestria have just frayed her nerves. She’ll be right as rain once we settle the country. I would talk with her later about this. For now, I had to take care of Chrysalis and her kin.

She was huddled around them protectively. I could relate. Well, if I had children. Thankfully, the ponies of Equestria acted enough like children that I got to snuggle with them a lot. It pays being so large sometimes. When I saw little Adagio whimpering, I quickly made my way over. No baby whimpers in pain on my watch. My horn lit up and a halo of energy appeared over her, causing her to glow. 

Once it finished, Adagio looked at herself and smiled. She then looked at me and babbled in baby talk. So cute~ I nuzzled her, “It was no trouble.” She even hugged my muzzle. No biting at all. Progress.

Chrysalis chuckled and nuzzled her children, “Thank you.”

“As I just said,” I smiled and gave her a motherly nuzzle as well. “It was no trouble.” I sighed. “I should have told Luna about your children, but it just never came up.”

“I don’t blame you,” Chrysalis huffed. “She’s always had it out for me.”

“Luna isn’t a bad pony,” I said. “She just… needs more time to get used to all of this.”

“She’s lucky you’re here,” Chrysalis growled. “I would have torn her to shreds. I doubt Hurricane is going to let this go.”

“Oh I don’t doubt that,” I nodded. Hurricane was a very stubborn stallion. He’d probably call Luna out for a duel. The only reason I didn’t fear for him was because he was quite capable in combat. Maybe not enough to kill a goddess…… Okay, he could possibly do that if he had the right weapon. He was such a warrior. “You caught yourself quite the stallion, if I say so.” It’s always good to switch topics.

Chrysalis smiled, “Of course. I deserve only the best.” When the little ones mewled for her, she gently put her bottom jaw over their heads and rumbled softly. “Mayhaps I should leave for a bit. Travel the countryside.”

I frowned, “You want to leave already?”

Chrysalis rolled her eyes, “Oh I know you’re just loving the ‘grandma’ role, but a little air can do me good.”

I hummed in thought and let my gaze fall on the little ones. There was so little we still knew about them. What if they got sick or worse? “At least wait for Starswirl’s arrival. He might be able to help us know what your children are.”

Chrysalis was silent for a moment, obviously thinking it over. “Fine, once that old geezer is finished, I’m leaving.” 

I nodded, “That’s all I ask for. Now, scoot over. I want to get in on the cuddling too.”

___________________________________________________________

I couldn’t believe this. My sister took that monster’s side again. AGAIN! I’m her sister. She should be on my side. Why? Does she just love it more then me? Am I just an inconvenience? I’m the one who’s routinely fighting monsters all day. I’m the one keeping this nation safe. She should bow down to me for all I’ve done for her. 

Wait, bow? Perhaps I’m pushing it a bit too far. They were children after all and… maybe I should apologize.

‘Why bother? They’re monsters, remember. They’re poisoning your sister's thoughts.’

Right. Of course. Monsters can’t feel anything… but that whimper. I hurt a baby. I… I should be ashamed. There is no honor in that. I’ll go back and see if I can help. Maybe babies like axes or something. Yes, a present.

‘Giving a monster a present? That’s asking for trouble, Luna.’

Yes, that is silly of me. I shan’t arm my enemies. Chrysalis will never be my friend. She’s trying to kill us all. I know it. Her children are the same. 

‘Remember that. Never forget that.’

Of course I won’t. I’m not an idiot. 

‘Your sister is.’

That’s not… true? Yet, she won’t see the threat. She didn’t feel those ‘things’. They seemed to brim with energy. Dark energy and it grew in my presence. What manner of creatures are they? Starswirl will know. Yes, of course he will. My fears will be put to rest.

‘And if not, then you put them to rest.’

There is no doubt of that. 

> Starswirl's Lab
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I couldn’t help but pace back and forth in front of the door. That stupid, stupid door. Starswirl couldn’t help but make it outlandish and big enough to fit a dragon, could he? Oh, it probably changes sizes, but he chose to have it dragon sized. I’ve killed dragons, but this wasn’t going to calm my nerves. Not with my babies in Hurricane’s hooves, sitting to my left or right, depending on where I was pacing. 

I could feel Hurricane slowly rolling his eyes as he kept track of the three young ones. I didn’t have to see it. I could sense it. Call it a wife’s intuition. Well, that or I could feel his emotions and judge them accordingly, but I like the first one better. “How long is he going to make us wait? Celestia sent him a letter.”

“Starswirl isn’t someone who follows the ‘right’ procedures when it comes to guests,” Hurricane pulled his head back from Adagio’s jaws. The little girl kept trying to best her daddy, with all her pushing and biting. Awww, she already wants to be ruler. So cute. Sonata was busy chasing her own tail and Aria was resting on his head. Overall, I wanted someone to paint this so I could save it for a rainy day. 

“Well he better learn them soon enough,” I growled. “Or else I’ll have to educate him myself.”

“Celestia won’t take kindly to his death, Chrysalis.”

“Oh I wouldn’t go that far,” I chuckled at my mate’s deadpan gaze. “Oh alright. I’ll go easy on him.”

“Besides,” Hurricane spoke up, petting Adagio who had worn herself out. “Starswirl the Bearded isn’t someone you should underestimate. I’ve never met a more powerful unicorn.”

“Take it from someone’s who’s been to multiple worlds,” I snorted. “There’s always someone more powerful than you.” Father always loved to remind me, whether it be by pitting me against stronger opponents or himself. We have a very complicated relationship. A relationship my daughters won’t have to endure if I can help it. 

Finally, the doors opened. I sighed in relief. I was about to break down the doors myself, but I knew Celestia wouldn’t like that. She also wouldn’t like me throttling Starswirl, but that went without saying. Trotting inside, I didn’t even glance at all the strange potions or items laying about everywhere. Half of them I’ve already seen on other worlds and the other half I just don’t care about. I just focused my attention on the old loon in front of me. Well, old for a pony. I was several times older than him, but I didn’t look a day over twenty one thousand.

“From one another, another to one. A mark of one’s destiny singled out alone, fulfilled.” The old unicorn stated with a growl. “Gah!” He used his magic to throw the large piles of paper he had everywhere. “It’s right there. It’s right, bloody there. Why can’t I find the end?”

“Having trouble with a spell?” I smirked, catching his attention. “I thought the great Starswirl the Bearded never had trouble with magic.”

Starswirl narrowed his eyes, “Ah yes, Chrysalis. I was expecting you.” Using his magic, he stuffed all the paper into a bookcase nearby and sealed it. 

“You don’t seem happy to see me,” I loomed over the geezer. I never really cared for him. Too strange. Reminds me a bit of some of my father’s daemon lords. 

“I’m never happy to see you,” Starswirl snorted before looking around her. His eyes sparkled. “But I am glad to see them.”

“Now wait-” before I could say anything more, he teleported in front of Hurricane. 

Sonata and Aria hid behind him, while Adagio growled. “Well aren’t you just fascinating,” Starswirl leaned in closer. “They’re a breed of sea ponies I’ve never seen before.”

“We were hoping you’d help us with that,” Hurricane kept himself in a battle stance. He trusted Starswirl, but ever since the three were born, he was even more on edge. It was cute, though I did fear why. A lot of the pegasi weren’t happy with this union and they were known for aggression. 

“Oh yes,” Starswirl caught Adagio with his magic when she tried to lunge at him. I so wanted to kill him right then and there when he did that. “Fully formed teeth at this age? Interesting.” He thankfully let go of her and turned and trotted into another room. “Come with me.” 

“Can I kill him now?” I spoke up when he was out of earshot.

“No,” Hurricane sighed reluctantly. “We need him alive.”

I groaned, “Of course we do. Let’s just get this over with.” I gave my babies a little reassuring nuzzle and pulled back. Little Sonata wasn’t having any of it and had grabbed onto my muzzle. She was dangling and giggling, wagging her tail. My heart melted as I smiled at her. “Aww, I know you love mommy. Mommy loves you too.” I could feel tendrils of their love just fine, even though it was oddly tainted and rather…. Disgusting. Even if it was tasty, I wouldn’t feed on my children. I gently put her on my back and we walked after the old coot. 

The room we found ourselves in was bare, save for a single table. He patted it, “Set them here, if you can.”

I snorted, but did as he asked. The sooner we got this over with, the sooner I could snuggle with my family. I didn’t have to worry about him trapping us. I had twenty five thousand changeling units around this very house and many more at my command. I can’t help but miss the times when I had millions at my beck and call, but daddy won’t let me have his soldiers anymore. 

I gave each of my girl’s a little nuzzle, “Now be good for the stallion, alright?” I reluctantly pulled away. They started to whimper, holding out their little hooves to me. Oh, I couldn’t stand seeing them like that.

“Chrysalis,” Starswirl got in between us. “I can’t have you smothering them the whole time I work.”

I growled, “Of course you can’t.” Urge to kill him, RISING!

Starswirl hummed in thought as he walked around the table. His horn glowed and soon so did the table. A wall of light appeared all around my babies. I kept telling myself to keep calm. This was just an inspection. I shouldn’t hurt him, even though my babies are cowering together….

Must resist the urge.

A little blue square appeared before Starswirl. The wizard started gazing at it, like he could see something rather clearly. He was obviously reading something off the buzzing square. I bet he loved just lording over his intellect. “Fascinating. They are definitely adapted to aquatic lifestyles.”

“I never would have guess,” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes as I said that.

“Of course,” Starswirl noted. “They are most certainly not sea ponies. Sea ponies evolved from pegasi many thousands of years ago. What your daughters represent is a sort of ‘missing link’, as it were in the evolutionary chain.”

“Wait,” I held up my hoof in questioning. “You’re a master of magic and work for a goddess and you believe in evolution?” I had to ask. Most feudal worlds don’t believe in it, especially when they have magic.

Starswirl raised an eyebrow, “I know you’ve been to many more advanced worlds, Chrysalis. I assure you we aren’t that primitive.”

“Could have fooled me,” I smiled as he glared at me. Had to make that joke. 

“As I was saying before I was rudely interrupted,” he made sure to give me a glowering gaze before continuing. As if I cared, anyways. “Your daughters are built for aquatic travel, akin to early dolphins. They can’t breath underwater like sea ponies can, however a good six to ten minutes without breath is possible. Again, it’s astounding the similarities they carry with dolphins. What exactly did you two do when you-”

“None of your business,” I seethed. 

“Right,” Starswirl noted and touched the magic pad again. “However, I noticed something strange. Your daughters are abnormally light for a purely aquatic creature. In fact,” his magic spiraled up and prodded my daughters’ sides with pole like extensions. Aria shrieked and Adagio put herself over her to protect her sister, growling at him.

I’d do more then that, but I think my glare got my message across. Starswirl pulled away immediately, “They have specialized air sacks stored inside that help with buoyancy. While this isn’t uncommon in aquatic creatures, this is a feature of Flying dragons also possess. The way it’s structured is more similar to them, not to mention the light bone structures and weight.”

“What are you getting at?” Hurricane asked. “Are you saying my daughters’ can fly?”

“I’m saying they were born to fly as well as to swim,” Starswirl nodded. “Magic is as magic does. When it comes to evolution, magic tends to make things complicated. We see so many chimeras in nature influenced by magic that sometimes whole families need to be reworked to keep up with the fast paced change magic spurs in evolution.” 

“I actually like the pace,” I smiled. “Reminds me of my own changelings.”

Starswirl narrowed his eyes, “Changelings’ genetic structure was created by chaos magic as is yours.”

I glared at him, “My magic isn’t chaos. It’s life.”

“Chaos is a part of life,” Starswirl countered. “Just because you hate your family, doesn’t mean you can’t accept the truth. Your daughters are supercharged on chaos magic and not in the way you are.”

“What are you saying?” I asked. 

Starswirl looked over at the trio, “Changelings are creatures that primarily feed on positive emotions. This is easy to reason. It is easier to quench your thirst with and general means a healthier supply. Negative emotions are tainted and an overdose can be lethal for most changelings, yet your children are fine. Better than fine.”

“Of course they are,” I gave my babies a reassuring smile. They were trying to push against the magic barrier to get to me. “Calm down. Mommy’s here. Your safe.” This seemed to pacify them once more. 

“Your children have been exposed to many negative emotions over the past few days,” Starswirl noted. “Your anger with the nobles. The nobles’ scorn. Luna herself and the anger between us.”

“And?” Where was he going with this. 

“Your daughters have evolved a new way to feed,” Starswirl stated. “What I found most strange is that they had energy from all those sources. Dark energy, yet positive energy such as the love of their parents or Celestia herself has only an underlying effect. As though positive emotions can only sustain them, but they thrive on the negative far more easily and have a healthier time of it.”

“Are you saying they feed off of the negative?” I laughed. “Oh don’t even joke about that. My daughters are the most positive beacons of hope in all the world.”

Starswirl glanced at Hurricane, who shook his head. “So what would you suggest we do?” My Hurricane asked. Hmph, I don’t see why this is an issue. I’ll just give them more love. 

“I don’t know,” Starswirl sighed. “It’s too early to tell. Perhaps when they grow older, this will fade away. We can only hope. Negative emotions can corrupt absolutely, no matter what you try.”

I could attest to that. Far too many of my father’s creatures and minions lived off of negative emotions. It drove them all mad. It drove them to be monsters. My babies weren’t going to be monsters. No. They wouldn’t be like me. They were going to be sweet, little angels {that occasionally conquer planets}. They were going to be perfect. PERFECT! 

AND THEN THEY WILL RID THIS PLANET OF ALL LIFE AND WE WILL RULE! HAHAHAHAHA!

“Chrysalis,” Hurricane spoke up. “You’re plotting again.”

I couldn’t help but blush blue. “IGNORE ME!”

Hurricane looked me up and down, “No.”

I blushed further, “You are so going to be snuggled to death tonight.”

“It’s a good thing I love to tango with death,” he smiled. Oh that alluring smile. I could get lost in it and those hard eyes. Those eyes that could kill a legion with a gaze. He’d drown the world with blood if it meant I’d be happy.

What a guy.

“Now you can- GYAAA!” Starswirl cried out when the magic barrier fell and Adagio sprung into his face. 

“TEAR HIS EYES OUT!” I cheered, quickly picking up Sonata and Aria in my arms. 

Hurricane sighed, “I suppose we already forgot about the negative emotion thing.” He looked at Aria, who was shuddering and folding her hooves over her eyes. Sonata was.... Enjoying the display far too much. He gently took her in his arms and nuzzled her, “Starswirl will be fine. This stuff always happens to him.”

> Annoying Uncles
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Politics were never my forte. I was much more at home on the battlefield, bathing in the blood of my enemies. My father’s rituals were rather crude, but they were fun to perform. Sometimes I ponder doing another job for him. He was always open, yet I knew better. He’d rope me into another job afterwards and then another. I got out of his stupid chaos wars. I’m not going back, especially not with my family. 

So now I was stuck looking over enough paperwork to fill up a small library. There were piles and piles of it and honestly, I wanted to burn it all to ash. I couldn’t. Celestia had already reprimanded me for doing that once. I wasn’t in the mood to hear it again. I wasn’t in the mood for a lot of things right now. I would literally do anything to be elsewhere. Well, anything except a meeting with the nobles. Nobles never change, no matter the time or species. They just make me want to bite their bloated heads off. 

“Looks like someone’s agitated,” a mocking voice echoed around the room. I recognized it instantly. My eyes widened as I foresaw my upcoming headache. Said headache materialized in the middle of the room. It was none other than Discord. 

“What are you doing here, Discord?” I narrowed my eyes. He never just showed up. He always had a plan stuffed somewhere in his body. He was a lot like dad and that’s one of the reasons I disliked him. 

“Can’t a guy visit his big sister whenever he wants?” Discord pouted. He fell forwards, catching himself on the edge of the desk. He gave me a puppy dog stare. “It’s been too long since we’ve talked. It feels like you don’t love me anymore.”

I snorted, “I don’t have time for this.”

“But you have time for that little toy of yours,” Discord walked beside me, wearing traditional pegasus armor. “What’s his name? Fluttercane?”

“Hurricane,” I snarled. I had to resist killing him. Mom made me promise. Besides, it was unlikely I could anyways. There are ways to kill us, but they are extremely difficult. It would still make me happy to try. “He is not my toy. He is my husband.”

“Ah yes,” Discord nodded and cupped his hands against his head. His face became a rather cartoonishly exaggerated caricature. His eyes were larger and had long eyelashes and his face sparkled. “Love.” He shook his head, thankfully stowing away his nightmare fuel face. “Such a dreadful thing. It’ll be your undoing, sister.”

“Oh please,” I rolled my eyes. “You’re one to talk. Aren’t you friends with the princesses?”

“Acquaintances,” Discord huffed, crossing his arms. “I only took the job they offered because I was bored.”

I rolled my eyes once more. Discord was always soft on Celestia. She had practically raised him, just like myself. I still don’t know why she made him the royal advisor. Well I can guess. Celestia was probably bored and wanted someone fun nearby. Discord fit the bill. “Why are you here? I don’t recall ever inviting you over.”

“You didn’t,” Discord grinned. He opened up a little door in the center of his forehead and reached in. He pulled out a large book and the door vanished. “You see, I have pictures of all our family’s greatest moments. Every one of us has a few pictures in here. Yet, for some time this thing has been ringing non-stop. It’s almost like we have more family.” He grinned, causing me to gulp. “So I asked Celestia and she told me the truth.”

No, oh mother no. He couldn’t know about my children. He couldn’t. If he knew, he could do things to them. He could mess up their minds, lead them astray. Turn them into hooligans. Make them wear tack knick knacks! 

He pulled me into a hug and laughed, “I’m an uncle! Oh I can’t wait to meet them.” He let go and let me hit the floor. I was going to make him pay for that. “On second thought, I hate waiting.” Three balls of light appeared in his hands: blue, purple, and orange. He started juggling them until they turned into my babies! 

Adagio and Aria cried out in alarm. Sonata just started laughing, enjoying the random event. “Oh ho, they are a strange bunch.” Discord laughed as he kept juggling them. “I like it. I like it a lot.” 

“Put them down!” I shouted, powering up a magic blast. 

“Fine,” he caught them one at a time in a huge catcher’s mitt. He lowered it down, but not before Adagio jumped forward and chomped on his nose. “I didn’t need that anyways.” He pulled off Adagio and his nose and gave my kids back to me. Thankfully, his nose had turned into a soft plastic squeaky toy. He just up and grew another one. 

“Thank you,” I huffed. Aria was shivering in my hold. I was going to kill him one day. Sonata was still laughing, holding out her hooves to Discord. She really wanted to go back to him, unfortunately. “No Sonata. He’s not someone you should be playing with.”

Sonata started to whimper and I could tell she was going to cry. Discord leaned down on his knees and I eyed him suspiciously. He calmly held out his hand and stroked Sonata’s head. “We can play later, okay?” Sonata giggled and rubbed her head on his paw. Discord smiled, “I think I found my favorite.”

“My daughters are equally impressive,” I snarled. “You can’t have a favorite. You have to love all of them equally.”

Discord rolled his eyes, “Equality is overrated. I don’t want to tell you how frustrating it is to listen to Clover the Clever go on and on about it. I swear, one of his descendents is going to let equality go to their head and that’ll be the end of us.”

I shook my head. Clover was eccentric, but he was harmless. “Other than using my daughters as play things, why are you here?”

Discord jumped back to his feet, “I just wanted to check up on you.” He disappeared, only to reappear on my head as a young version of himself. “You know, like good little brother’s do.”

I growled, “You were never a good little brother. You were the bane of my existence.”

He slinked down to the ground and grew back to his original age. In the process, he took on a goth-like appearance. “I see someone’s still going through her emo phase.” He waggled his finger condescendingly. 

I snapped at him, “Do not call it that! I’m not going through a phase.”

Discord laughed. He pulled a zipper on his side and walked out of his goth skin. Throwing it aside, it turned into a lamp that looked sort of like me. If I wore goth clothes with a sign that said ‘This is the real me’. “Sure you aren’t. Anyways, aside from that and your adorable littler ones, I had to remind you that mom’s coming to visit.”

My skin went white. Literally. “What?”

Discord nodded, “Yep. She wants to meet her grandkids and if I know dad, he’s going to grow curious and show up as well sometime soon. Just wanted to run that by you.” He went to walk towards one of my walls. “Oh and I’ll be moving to the castle. I can’t wait to play with those adorable abominations some more.” He opened up a hole on the wall by knocking on it three times. The wall lead to a purple realm with all sorts of monsters, screams, and nonsensical things. I really hated the warp. “Auf Wiedersehen.”

As he left, I couldn’t help but think on what he had said. Mom was coming over? Here? I wasn’t ready. None of us were. She was a goddess of chaos. She was going to ask why I hadn’t destroyed this world yet. She was going to get angry and she… she… I pulled my kids close to me and I knew they felt my distress. They nuzzled in close to me as though trying to comfort me.

My heart melted at that and I teleported them to their bedroom. I laid them down in their little play pen and kissed their heads, “Stay here and please don’t try and make a fuss. Mommy has a lot of things going on.” The little one’s gave me a smile as if to say ‘okay’. They were going to be safe. No matter what, my babies weren’t going to be affected by this if it was the last thing I did. 

I sighed in relief and teleported myself back to my room. I woozily walked back to my desk. Odd, I felt a little weaker. It was nothing. Just a headache from dealing with Discord. Yet, I couldn’t help but remember being stronger a moment ago. That changed when my emotions became negative. That’s probably just my body being strange. Changeling don’t do well with negative emotions.

Still, it felt like someone was nibbling on them. It wasn’t much, but… I chuckled. No, I was thinking things. Starswirl’s diagnosis was probably wrong and even so, it didn’t matter. They were my children. They needed positive emotions, not negative ones if they wanted to be strong and healthy. I was going to make sure they were treated like the true rulers they will one day become. That I swear. 

Now I just needed to work out how to make my home chaos proof. I held my head in my hooves. Oh dear, I guess my headache is going to be worse than I thought. The door opened up and in walked Celestia. 

“I sensed Discord,” she simply said and walked over to me. “Is everything alright?”

“Just peachy,” I laid my head down on my desk and groaned. “My mom’s coming over.”

Celestia blinked in surprise, “Well that’s certainly something.” She trotted around the desk and pulled me into a hug with her wing. She let me have a little snack on her love, which did help my headache considerably. “I’m sure it’ll work itself out. She does love you.”

“Yes, but she hates harmony and peace.” I shook slightly as I recalled my mother’s hateful gaze. She never directed it towards me, but I really didn’t want to be near it. “The moment she sees what it’s like here and that I made it happen, she’ll hate me. She’ll try and take it all from me: my home, my husband, my…”

“Chrysalis,” Celestia laid her head over my own in a motherly fashion. “You’re overreacting. I know your mother. She’s a lot more understanding then you give her credit for.” She pulled back and raised my face to meet hers. It’s not surprising I think of her as a second mother. “No matter what happens, I’ll support you. You have my word, I’ll do everything in my power to keep her happy as well as you and your family.”

I smiled, “Thank you. Just… thank you.” I pulled her into a deeper hug. 

She chuckled as she returned it, “Of course. What are babysitters for?” 

“Stealing cakes from parents?” I quipped, causing us both to laugh. 

> Grandma's Here
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I couldn’t believe it. My mother coming here? No, that wasn’t possible. We haven’t talked in centuries. Now she wants to come over? Because I have children? Ugh, the nerve of that mare. I stroke my mane to get it to perfection. I knew that was saying a lot since I was already perfect, but right now I wanted to look my best. I was going to show her what I was made of and stand my ground…

“You’re tense,” Hurricane spoke up from behind me. 

I turned to glare at my husband. Why on this planet was he so calm? Was it because he was a general? Ha! If he knew my mother, he’d be quaking in his boots. She was not a chaos goddess for nothing, “Of course I’m bloody tense. My bloody mother is coming to this bloody planet to see my bloody kids and my bloody husband is taking his bloody time not stressing out like the sexy moron I bloody married!”

Hurricane quirked an eyebrow, “That’s a lot of blood right there.”

“Oh it’ll get worse when mother arrives,” I huffed and finished with my mane. It was perfect, as usual. I sighed. “This has to be perfect… ish.” I narrowed my eyes. “At least, I hope it has to be. My mother is rather strange. It comes with the territory of being a chaos goddess. Thankfully, I’m more a goddess of change and fertility then chaos so I don’t have that problem. I never change my mind that often to annoy my fellows.”

Hurricane rolled his eyes. Hmph, what does he know? What? Can’t a female be wishy washy when she’s pregnant? Or at any other time? Stallions….

“Now then,” I cleared my throat and turned to let him get a good look at my form. “Do I look presentable?”

“When are you ever not?” Hurricane quipped.

I giggled and gave him a nuzzle, “Perfect answer~ Now, where are the children?”

“I left them in Celestia’s care,” Hurricane answered. “I had a few errands to take care of, namely making sure that the army is fit and proper for your mother’s arrival.”

“That may have impressed my father, but my mother honestly doesn’t care for fit and proper militaries.” I knew that all too well. She just cared about how much chaos and destruction she could wreak upon mortals. Thankfully I am not like that at all. I pride myself on a strict force that can firmly hold on to a planet with ease. That’s why all the operations and wars were spearheaded by me and me alone, with a little bit of daddy’s help. 

I still hoped that this would go over smoothly. This was my family after all.

_____________________________________________________________

I found my babies in the courtyard, playing at Celestia’s hooves. I noticed with slight mirth that some of the guards had bloody noses or forelegs. My babies can be quite troublesome to these ponies. Good. They need to know they can’t control us. They squealed and rushed over to me. It warmed my heart to see how happy I made them simply by being near. Of course they did. I’m the perfect mother. “I hope they haven’t been giving you too much trouble.”

“Perish the thought,” Celestia gave my children a warm smile. “There may have been a few hiccups, but it was far from the worst experience I’ve had from babysitting. I rather enjoyed them.” She looked up into my face and frowned. “You’re worried.”

I chuckled, “Always so perceptive, Celestia… Yes, I’m worried.” I turned to look over the courtyard and how oddly still it was. “I don’t know what she’s going to do when she gets here. I know she won’t hurt me or my children, but…” I lowered my head to nuzzle my three children. “I can’t help but feel she might try something that will ruin this world’s peace. I do ever so want my children to conquer, but I’d prefer to keep at least one world intact.”

Celestia rolled her eyes, “You have nothing to worry about. I’ve dealt with your mother long enough to know that she can be reasoned with.”

Before I could respond, a bright flash appeared in the middle of the courtyard. “Hello everyone!” The most annoying creature of all spoke. Discord had such an annoying smile that I often pondered ways to rip it off. Sometimes it worked for a few minutes, but being a god of chaos himself, he could fix it. He was wearing a large red and white top hat, black suit, and held an orange cane with the star of chaos on the end. “How are you doing on this fine day?”

“I was doing well until a living headache inducing moron decided to show up,” I growled. I loved my brother, but I also hated him. It was a complex relationship that really only a sister and brother could have. 

Discord just nodded, “When you see this ‘moron’, tell him I want a few words with him or her.” He held out his hat and tapped it with his cane. He shook it up a bit, threw in a tomato for some reason, and then turned it upside down. 

Out from the smaller hat, came the large frame of Luna. She looked a bit woozy and had a bright red tomato stuck to her nose. Said tomato blinked like it held a little fire inside. I couldn’t help but giggle. 

“Oh dear,” Discord tutted. “I forgot the rest of the outfit. Silly me.” He tapped Luna’s horn and a full clown outfit sprouted around her. White paint coated her once blue coat.

Getting herself back in order, Luna looked down at herself. “WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME, VILE CREATURE?!!” Her Canterlot voice nearly blew away the whole courtyard. She really needs to learn how to control her voice. 

“I made you more representable and attractive,” Discord took off his hat and used it to boop her tomato nose, which then turned blue. “There. Just the faintest bit of blue. You look much better in white, miss Lulamoon.”

“DO NOT CALL ME THAT NAME!” Luna charged at him, intent to impale. Good. Maybe some roughing up could get some sense thrown into their heads. The moment she came close to him, the cinder blocks underneath her turned into a huge hand as he shot out and grabbed her. It held her around her chest up in the air. 
Discord chuckled as he walked up the vertical cinder hand, “So testy.” He turned into smoke the moment she shot a blast of magic at him. He reappeared in a reclining posture right above her. “So odd. Celestia is the calm one, yet rules the boiling sun. You control the calming moon, but have the temper of a raging volcano.” He laughed and spun around her, “Oh how I love it.”

“Awww, look at you. Playing with lesser gods.” A silky feminine voice spoke up. 

Mine and Discord’s ears perked up, “Mother?” We both said at the same time. 

In our midst, a vapor seemed to rise from the ground. Like water, it flowed around them until it formed into what appeared to be a light grey alicorn with a black mane with white stripes through it. Her mane, like the alicorn sisters, flowed about her. “My children,” she looked upon us with those red and yellow eyes. Honestly, I wish she would change them. They remind me too much of my brothers’. “It is so good to see you.”

“MOM!” Discord squealed and threw away his cane and hat. Said items turned into a hopping mailbox that gave everyone it met a raspberry and a large candy cane toad. His choices were just too… stupid to believe. He hugged our mother tightly, “I missed you.”

Our mother chuckled and hugged him back, “And I missed you.” She looked over at me. “What? No hug for your mother?”

I rolled my eyes and walked over, giving her a quick hug. I had an appearance to keep after all. I couldn’t just go about glomping my mother in front of everyone. Besides, Celestia took care of me more often than she did. 

“Now,” our mother flowed around us before stopping. She stood over Hurricane, looking at him with a keen eye. I gulped and hoped she wouldn’t do anything to my husband. “You must be the stallion who charmed my daughter.”

He gave her a practiced salute, “Commander Hurricane, ruler of the pegasi.”

“Eris, goddess of chaos and disorder.” She bowed her head. “You know, I used to rule over creatures with your culture. That is if my daughter has informed me of your culture correctly. Very good times for me, but I was never able to destroy their world completely.” 

“Well I hope we can bypass the world destroying tidbit during this visit,” Celestia spoke up.

Eris narrowed her eyes, “Ah yes, the little upstart sun goddess. I see you’re finally taking an active role in the lives of mortals. I remember a time when you were scarcely more than a lowly babysitter.”

“And look how that turned out,” Celestia smirked, causing Eris to bristle slightly. I frowned. They never got along. Not once, but my mother had come to rely on Celestia because she did protect me well. 

The fury of the moment was broken when Luna finally smashed her way out of Discord’s stone hand. Phooey, I wanted to see her spend her precious night encased in stone. Oh well. There always was tomorrow. 

“Hello Luna,” Eris smiled as she walked on over. “My, my, my. You’ve certainly grown.”

Luna snorted and glared up at her. If she says anything out of line towards her, I’m going to blast that little moon bitch. Celestia is one thing, but her?!! 

“We do so hope that you can act accordingly this time,” Luna snorted and looked down at her ripped and dust covered dress. She sighed, “We best be off to get ourselves cleaned.” She hurried off. Typical. She probably couldn’t wait to get away from us.

“Now where are my grandchildren?” Eris peered around until she looked at my three children who hid behind Celestia. “Ah, there you are. A very good hiding place. You can’t see much past those huge hindquarters of hers.”

“Thank you,” Celestia smiled. Eris frowned, annoyed by how Celestia was proud of her big butt. Thankfully I have a slimmer one of my own, but sometimes I make it bigger when me and Hurricane…. Nevermind. I don’t want my mother intruding on those thoughts. 

Eris’s form flowed around her like smoke. She didn’t really walk or travel that often like a normal creature. My brother gets too much from her. Appearing behind Celestia, Eris smiled down at the three joys of my life. “Hello there. I’m your-” She was stopped midsentence when Adagio chomped down on her nose. Eris giggled, “Oh I remember when you used to do this, Chrysalis.”

I blushed slightly, “Not for very long.”

Eris used her magic to gently pull Adagio off. Mybaby hung in the air with a defiant pout, before Eris nuzzled her. My baby giggled as she squirmed under the assault. Seeing her sister having fun, Sonata jumped up and down as she tried to reach my mother’s snout. Aria was sticking to Celestic, to which she was picked up by the warm and yellow glow and hoofed over to me.

I smiled as I took her in my hooves. Aria smiled and nuzzled my chest, “Don’t worry, Aria. She’s family and she loves you.” I kissed her forehead, “You remember that we love you too and we won’t let anything happen to you. Especially your father, if you remember his promise.” I silently giggled as I remembered how my husband had really taken to this one. 

“Speaking of father,” Eris spoke up. “I’d like to have a chat with him later. Celestia here interrupted our first one.”

“I did no such thing,” Celestia responded. I rolled my eyes. This was going to be a long stay. 

> Baby Gods Invite Trouble
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Chrysalis*

My mother was finally here… it was taking me awhile to get over this. I haven’t really talked with my mother in a few centuries. I still love her, but there have been some rifts in our family. I”m just glad she’s not showing any frustration around the children. I don’t care if they need ‘bad’ emotions. They’ll get used to love and positivity. My children need it in their lives and I’m sure I can just grab a bottle of anger later and give it to them. They’ll eventually be weaned off the stuff. 

Speaking of children, they seemed to have warmed up to my mother. She had quiety laying on her back. Even little Aria seemed to be at peace with the situation. I found that a bit odd, but perhaps my mother had mellowed out over time. Of course, I haven’t spent much time with my mother in… I can’t remember. It’s been quite a while since I’ve been with her for any great deal of time. Not that it was my choice. Life happens after all. In this case, ‘life’ usually stands for ‘father’. 

“So mother,” I trotted up beside her. Most of the others had gone off to do their own things or they just weren’t big fans of my mother. I wouldn’t blame them, since she’d probably think of something cruel to do to them. I would never do such a thing. I only ever punish those who really deserve it, like singing telegrams. I growled at the very thought of those vermin. Prancing around and singing messages in their insipid tones. They deserved worse than what I gave them. “How long do you plan to stay?”

My mother quirked an eyebrow as she stared at me, “Do you wish me gone already?”

I quickly shook my head, “No, I was just curious. You don’t often show up for that long. At least, not when it comes to me.”

Eris sighed and stopped in her hooves. She looked over to my husband, “Can you give us a moment? This is a conversation between gods so-”

“He might as well be there,” I furrowed my brow. “He’s my husband after all.” 

“A mortal is an odd choice of a husband,” my mother sighed. “But you are an adult so I can’t force you to give him up.”

My anger flared but I did my best to curb it. I quickly glanced at my children. They seemed to be rather content and… were feeding. On my anger, no less. I needed to calm down. Such emotions aren’t good for them in the long run, “Mother, can we please get back on track. I’m sure you came here for a reason or else you would have kept that buffoon of a brother of mine with us.”

“That’s not a nice thing to say about your brother,” Eris scold. I kept my tongue still. “But I did come for several reasons. The first is that I missed you.” I snorted, “I did.” She leaned forward to nuzzle me. “You’re still my daughter and I love you. I just wanted to come by and see how you were doing.”

“Took you a while to show up,” I snorted once more.

“That and I came here to see my grandchildren,” she nuzzled the little ones on her back. Adagio growled and bit her muzzle. Said muzzle turned into smoke, reforming as she moved away. She chuckled, “She has your spirit, this little Adagio. She will be a fine leader.”

I nodded, “That she will be.” Now I just needed to shape up my other two girls to be the same. “Now what’s the real reason?”

Eris frowned, “As you will know, when gods have children, it tends to get noticed one way or another by the rest of the gods.”

My eyes widened. That could be very bad news. Not all gods were vicious or vindictive, but there were many that were or just wanted to use others to further their own agendas. 

Eris lifted a wing to silence my questions, “If what I know of Celestia to be true, they can’t enter this realm unless Celestia herself allows it. Discord could as well, but I’m sure he’ll be a very good boy and listen to his mommy.” She frowned, “Remind him every once and again about the barrier. He sometimes forgets mommy’s lessons.”

Of course, many of mommy’s lessons were about torturing mortals and bringing ruin through chaotic actions. So he’s lived up to most of them quite well. “It sounds as though I don’t have much to worry about.”

“There are ways around this,” Eris continued. “And given your father and I don’t get along well with most of the other gods, they might… try and poke through.”

I glanced at my children. They didn’t need to go through with this. They were completely innocent. Adagio didn’t even have that much pony blood on her muzzle this morning. She’s been biting less pony noses after all. Either that, or the ponies have started to actually grow brains and leave her alone. One or the other. 

“If they try,” Hurricane spoke up. “I can assure you, their forces will be swiftly taken care of.”

“That remains to be seen,” Eris snorted. “You pegasi remind me of a kingdom Ares used to love. You might actually offer a challenge, but that might just make you all the more interesting opponents to some.”

“Then let them come,” Hurricane narrowed his eyes. He was always a stubborn stallion and that’s one of the reasons I love him. “They will meet my sword before they ever touch my children.”

My mother chuckled, “You really are a Spartan… This shall be enjoyable.”

I narrowed my eyes at the way she said that. It held a malevolent tone to it and I knew that tone all so well. I got it from both sides of the family after all, “Mother, are you planning something?”

“... Yes.” She simply nodded.

I sighed. This was certainly going to be a long stay.

________________________________________________________________________

Thankfully, the day was almost over with when mother arrived. She doesn’t really need sleep, but she promised to give her chaos a rest till tomorrow. I’m still honestly surprised she didn’t warp the entire castle. I’d give her a week before she tried that. 

I yawned as I made my way to my room. My children were already there, fast asleep. I didn’t have to worry about anyone breaking in though. A well-armed Pegasus and one of my own warrior caste changelings were standing guard. Given their durability, I honestly doubted any creature would try their hand at attacking without having to think twice about it. When I got there, they both were just fine. The duo were standing guard, one on each side. If there was trouble, my warrior could just send out a signal to nearby troops or myself. Having a semi-connection to one another was quite nifty.

I gave them both a respective nod and went inside. I was eager to see my babies again, since they had to retire earlier then us due to them feeling sleepy. I frowned as I closed the door. I could hear Adagio and Sonata giggling. Perhaps they had found a new game to play or were torturing and devouring some mice.

However, it was Aria’s whimpers that made me growl. Those weren’t the same whimpers she made when she wanted her mommy and daddy. She was afraid of something or someone. Even her energy seemed to indicate that. 

Speaking of which, I did feel something off about the air around me. It seemed to twist the air and world around its finger. It seemed to open up all new possibilities and promises. I knew this presence and that’s why I was afraid. I rushed into the babies room and saw him.

He was standing over the crib. Just one being. His large rainbow colored wings were held against his back, sparkling in the gleaming light of the moon. His anthropomorphic crow like body was hunched over the crib. His lither arm was inside the crib, petting Sonata. She seemed to be giggling at the action. Adagio was, of course, biting into his hand eagerly. He didn’t seem to mind as he made no move against it. 
Aria was in the corner, looking up at him in fright. I growled, “Father, what are you doing here?”

My father turned around, his grin spread across his beak. “Chrysalis, I’m surprised at you. You thought that I wouldn’t want to see my grandchildren? I’m hurt.” He chuckled. “You didn’t even send an invitation. It’s almost like you wanted to keep them a secret.”

I did. I just glared at him.

He moved forward. He loomed over me and tapped my snout, “You can never hide anything from me. I am the god of schemes. The universes are woven around my fingers. Every outcome is part of my plans and this was of course, one of them. I’m so proud of you.”

“Why are you here?” I snarled.

“To pay a visit,” he chuckled. “Your mother was allowed to come, why not I?”

“Because I know you,” I simply retorted. “I won’t have you turn them into a weapon like you did with me.”

“And that ended with you becoming the strong, independent woman you are today.” My father stated. “You should be thanking me. If it wasn’t for me, you’d be as careless as your brother.” He leaned forward, “Although, your planning skills have much room for improvement. Your campains after you left my service were abhorrent.” 

“I won those battles,” I did. I did that on my own and not with his aid.

“Because they were fools and didn’t have an ounce of intelligence,” my father scoffed. “The holes in your form come from fighting a being of both intellect and power. If you had fought the Anathema and his ilk, they would have destroyed you without a second thought.”

“Your war isn’t mine anymore,” I pulled him back with my magic and quickly got in between him and my children. “And it isn’t theirs.”

“You’re wrong,” he stated. “You are born of two chaos gods. You have it running through your veins. Your very presence warps and changes the world around you. One day the forces of order will have enough. One day, the everyday person will hate you. They will hate you for what you are. What you represent. They won’t ever give you a chance to explain yourself. They will force you into your position and you will either destroy or be destroyed.”

“Is that what you believe, father?” I snorted. “Well you’re wrong. I’m different and my life will not devolve into hatred. It will be filled with love and compassion and order to spare.”

“Is that why your children feed on hatred?” My father grinned. “How glorious that they are born with such an ability. I can see their potential.” He seemed to sigh in bliss, “The power they could wield. The worlds they could turn. They were born into hatred. If you want to continue lying to yourself, do so. It won’t affect you if you play your cards right. You feed off of love.” He turned, “But what happens to creatures that feed off of hatred, Chrysalis?”

I turned my head.

“What happens to them?” He asked, but I stayed silent. He sighed, “You remember my lessons, don’t you?”

“I remember you taught me how to fight.”

He chuckled, “So naïve… I do care for you. Your mother and Discord too. Don’t ever think I do otherwise.”

“Ha,” I smiled. “Like I would ever believe that again. I’m just a tool for one of your schemes. Just like mother was.”

He snarled and turned to face me again. Just like that, the world seemed to halt. It seemed to constrict around me and it was hard to breathe. My children cried but the crib seemed to inch further away from me. I couldn’t move. All I could see is his glaring eyes that glowed with purple fire, “I love your mother and you. Even Discord. I love you, even if you don’t agree with how I show it. If you believe that ‘love’ only comes in one form, then you are sadly mistaken. I did what I had to do and I would do it again.”

The presence lessened and I could breath again. I went over to my children and picked him up with my magic, putting them in my forelegs as I sat down, “It’s alright. Everything’s alright.”

“Keep telling yourself that,” my father snorted. “Maybe you’ll believe it one day.” He held up his hand. “I will return and one way or another. My plans will flow. Give your mother my love.” He snapped his fingers and was gone.

I didn’t want to show it, but my children could taste it. Something I didn’t normally feel ever.

Fear.

Aria was the first to fall into my embrace, nuzzling me. I smiled. She did have the largest heart. That might get her hurt one day. Sonata followed suite. As long as they remained here, in my arms, they would be safe. I would make sure of that.

“Awww, aren’t you swe-“

Adagio bit my nose.

I sighed and chuckled, “Next time, bite his nose sweetie.”