Metamorphosis experiences daily life at the Hive, starting with someone he's all too familiar with resurfacing.
Metamorphosis has at long last returned to the Hive, his birthplace. He is eager to find a way to fit in among his fellow changelings despite not being reformed. His sons are of course by his side every step of the way. Together, the three of them will reintroduce Metamorphosis to Equestria, all while dealing with the normal drama and adventure that comes with being a family.
Author's Note: This story is rated Teen simply as a precaution, in case I decide to sometimes use themes that are not suitable for the Everyone rating. Edit: added Profanity tag just in case I have Phar use some language. Also, it should be known that this story will have multiple acts (details below).
Act one: Metamorphosis is reintroduced to society, while Pharynx's old issues with being an outcast begin to rear their head. Follow what happens when Metamorphosis discovers that a voice whispers to his eldest son. A voice he's all too familiar with...
Act two: Now that Pharynx's outcast-driven issues have been put to rest, Metamorphosis experiences daily life at the Hive, starting with preparing for the winter holidays.
Act three: Spring is coming to the Changeling Hive, and Metamorphosis believes he has finally beginning to belong among the reformed changelings, taking on a role as a grand patriarch. But not everyone is content to sit back and watch the rain fall outside. Will Metamorphosis be able to handle the new developments? *Contains scenes that make the Death tag appropriate
Act Four: Spring has come and summer is looming on the horizon. Metamorphosis is forming even stronger bonds with his sons. But while everything between them is normally calm, Metamorphosis will discover nothing can be perfect for long, and not even twins get along all the time. And when secrets begin to rise to the surface, will Metamorphosis find that who he thought he was was never the truth?
Act Five: Summer has come, with new experiences for Metamorphosis and his family. With the brothers in harmony (for the time being), their Gemi-might be new knowledge to be gained and new bonds to create between Metamorphosis' sons and creatures he knows well. And Metamorphosis may just discover something new about himself as well.
Act 6: Fall comes and Ocellus returns to her school, but Metamorphosis will find peace does not come with one less creature to worry about. And soon, a new-old evil looms, threatening him and his family.
Sweet Luna, made it to the popular page on the day it was approved!
Metamorphosis sighed as he lay on the soft mattress. This was something the old Hive had never had. He could definitely get used to this. Someling suddenly entered the room. Loudly.
“Morning dad!” Thorax called brightly.
Metamorphosis groaned as he sat up, rubbing his eyes with a hole-infested hoof. “Thorax, don’t you think it’s too early for this?”
“That’s what I said.”
Pharynx entered the room behind Thorax, who was opening the blinds. Unlike his brother, he looked like he’d just woken up, and was stifling a yawn.
“Come on you two, it’s a brand new day and dad needs to be shown the whole Hive!”
Pharynx groaned as the sun entered the room. “Move over.” he ordered, flopping down onto Metamorphosis’ bed and burrowing under the blankets to escape the sun.
Metamorphosis chuckled softly and laid a hoof over Pharynx. His son pressed against him, unknowingly feeding him a bit of breakfast.
“Pharynx!” Thorax moaned, trotting over and poking Pharynx’s back with his hoof. “Come on, I just got you up!”
“That’s why I’m over here.” Pharynx grunted. “Go. Away.”
“Pharynx, come on! Dad, help me!”
Metamorphosis sighed and patted Pharynx on the head gently. “Pharynx, come on, get up, humor your brother, please?”
“Lemme sleep!”
“Pharynx, I don’t see why you’re not getting up, don’t you have soldiers to drill?” Thorax sighed
“That’s why I’m not getting up!” Pharynx wrapped his hooves around Metamorphosis in a hug, resting against him. “Dumb hardheaded think-they-know-everything ‘lings… headache waiting to happen…”
Thorax sighed and leaned down to nuzzle him behind the ears. Pharynx’s ears twitched and he grunted.
“Come on cuddlebug-”
“Watch it…”
“Alright, alright. Pharynx, what if I promise-”
“You’ll take over their training?”
“Not a chance.”
“Ugh…”
Thorax sat down and tried to tug Pharynx into his hooves. He refused to let go of Metamorphosis. Thorax sighed, then smirked and gave him a quick squeeze to the ribs.
“Eek!” Pharynx squealed like a schoolfilly, forelegs unlatching from around Metamorphosis to curl protectively in front of his chest.
“Hehe, aww.” Thorax pulled him into a hug and nuzzled him.
“Thorax!” Pharynx blushed and nestled against him.
“What? It’s cute!”
“Shuddap.” Pharynx grumbled, burying his head in Thorax’s shoulder.
Thorax smiled and nuzzled him gently. “Come on, let’s get you some coffee, then start showing dad around.”
“Coffee, yes. Showing him your lame activities, no.”
“Come on Phar…”
“I’m tired and want to go back to sleep. You’re not getting a positive reaction from me about your dumb crafts and feelings-”
“Pharynx if you say Feelings Circles one more time…” Thorax warned
Pharynx looked up, then smirked. “Feelings Circles.”
Thorax hesitated, then growled and lunged, throwing his weight on top of Pharynx as they fell onto the bed.
“Thorax! What the heck?!”
“They’re Feelings Forums, Pharynx!”
“So?! You never cared before!”
Thorax stopped, sighing. “I’m sorry, it’s just… I’ve been staying up late to deal with political stuff and I guess I’m a bit ti-” he broke off.
Pharynx squirmed and managed to free himself, grinning. “I’m sorry, were you about to say ‘tired’? My brother, tired in the early morning when he’s playing his favorite early morning game; wake-up-call rooster?”
“I…” Thorax sighed “Maybe I am tired… just a little bit…”
Pharynx smirked and laid back down, Metamorphosis following his lead.
“Come on bro, what always happens whenever we snu-er… what usually happens in the mornings some days?”
“Oh, you mean when you swallow your pride and come sleep in bed with me because you’re scared?” Thorax teased
Pharynx blushed. “Whatever… still, what usually happens in the mornings then?”
“Heh, we, uh… we…” Thorax stammered, apparently knowing his answer would prove Pharynx right.
Pharynx nodded. “We sleep in. Come on.” he flopped over and grabbed Metamorphosis’ foreleg, wrapping it over himself in a hug.
“Heh, I would like to see what’s so nice about these ‘cuddle piles’...” Metamorphosis said slowly.
Thorax hesitated, then lit up his antlers, closing the door and shutting the blinds with his magic. He then crawled closer to them and settled down beside Pharynx, wrapping his hooves around his older brother and setting his head on top of Pharynx’s.
“Alright, we can sleep in a little longer. But I’m being the big spoon.” he told Pharynx.
“Whatever… can I at least get that coffee when we wake up?”
“...Sure Pharynx…”
Thorax then pulled Pharynx close, and the beta changeling yawned. He nuzzled close and settled down.
“You know… we should make a new law… mornings are hereby banned.”
“Pharynx, we can’t do that.”
“Sure we can, we’re the…” Pharynx yawned and nestled closer. “...the leaders. We can do whatever the buck we want…”
“We’re not banning the morning Pharynx.”
“Why nooot?”
“Because I said no. Besides, it’s not even possible to ban a time of day.”
“Whatever… I don’ hafta listen to you anyway… I’m the older brother…”
“Heh, you’re the sleepybug brother.” Thorax teased, chuckling. Pharynx just cuddled against Thorax, still mumbling as he drifted off.
“Don’t care… by order of… Prince-General Pharynx, the…” he yawned again “The older, wiser, stronger, and best brother… mornings are now illegal. Waking up early to force your siblings out of bed for inane and boring stuff is… punishable by… tickle attacks… especially Monday mornings… those… mmn… will be punished by… full extent of the law…”
Thorax rolled his eyes and stroked his brother’s head, looking up at Metamorphosis.
“Don’t listen to him, he’s just being silly.”
Metamorphosis smiled. “I know.”
Thorax smiled back and settled against the pillows, closing his eyes with a content sigh. “That pillow and blanket donation started by Princess Twilight was probably the best idea she’s ever…” he yawned before continuing. “...had…” he then fell asleep, still holding his brother.
Metamorphosis pressed closer against his sons. He watched as the elder brother wrapped his hooves around the younger brother. Pharynx rested his head in the curve of Thorax’s neck, and the two cuddled together. Metamorphosis smiled softly and curled up beside them, nuzzling them both before falling back asleep.
Thorax and Pharynx led Metamorphosis through the Hive. Pharynx had gotten his promised coffee and was taking large sips of the strong drink.
“See, this is theater… craft time… dancing…”
Metamorphosis looked around eagerly as he saw reformed changelings left and right. Some were drawing each other or spinning each other around on a makeshift dance floor. A couple were rehearsing lines on what seemed to be a hastily but sturdily built stage.
“And there’s the Feelings Forum over there!”
Thorax pointed a hoof at a moss covered cave where changelings were sitting in a circle. They watched patiently as one changeling stood in the center and seemed to be speaking about something.
“It’s a place built for changelings to talk about their problems so we can gain better understanding of each other.” Thorax explained, smiling.
Metamorphosis smiled back, as Pharynx huffed and kept walking… only to trip over a group of changelings. He yelped as his coffee cup hit the floor and spilled.
“Ack! Sillia, Fema, Cornicle, Tibius!” he shouted as the four changelings scrambled to stand up.
“Y-Yes Prince Pharynx?” the icey blue and white female asked
“Don’t ‘yes Prince Pharynx’ me, Sillia! What have I told you all about sleeping in the hallways?!”
“S-Sorry sir, w-we were tired…” the powder blue and green male changeling said
“Then go to your rooms! Don’t just lie here where anyone could trip over you! Do I need to spell this out for you, Tibius?!”
“We didn’t mean any harm sir…” the pink female said
“I don’t care what harm you meant, Fema, you know my rules! No sleeping in the hallways, it’s a safety hazard!” Pharynx then gestured to his spilled coffee. “And this hallway nap was a double hazard, look at this mess! Someling could slip in it!”
“Technically you spilled that coffee.” Tibius said, only to be granted a fierce glare by Pharynx.
“How do you think it ended up on the floor in the first place?! Because you tripped me!”
The green changeling sighed. “And here I thought we’d be able to convert Pharynx before he noticed everyling was still sleeping in the halls…” he muttered
“I heard that!” Pharynx snapped “Just get out of here.”
They all nodded timidly and headed towards Thorax. He put a hoof on the green changeling.
“Don’t worry Cornicle, we may be able to convince him yet.” he murmured, winking.
The changeling grinned before following his friends. Thorax shared a smile with Metamorphosis, who chuckled.
“‘Convert’ him?” he murmured
“Getting Pharynx to understand snuggling. It’ll happen eventually…”
“But he just snuggled with us this morning.”
“The others don’t know that, and he wants to keep it that way, it’s private. And even if they do find out, snuggling with him will probably be exclusive to myself, Tempest, and you.”
“Probably.” Metamorphosis agreed with a chuckle.
“Do I want to know what you two are whispering about?” Pharynx sighed as he trotted back to them.
“Heh, it’s nothing important.” Thorax briefly slipped a foreleg around him in a side hug before pulling back.
“So who exactly were those four changelings?” Metamorphosis asked
“Sillia, Fema, Cornicle, and Tibius. They’re some of our closest friends and helpers.” Thorax explained
“Which you’d never know by the way they disobey my rules.”
“Come on Pharynx, it doesn’t happen that often…”
“Only about twice a week.”
Thorax ignored this, smiling. “Anyway, they’re some of our best helpers. Fema is the head of the nursery and Sillia is head of the infirmary. Tibius helps me manage all these activities, and Cornicle helps with inventory of everything.”
“They seem very nice. I recall they were the first to say that they accepted me.”
“Mhm. They’re not exactly advisors-that’s a role Ocellus will fill. But they are wonderful help and often come to us with problems and let us help them through it.”
“And who is Ocellus? You’ve mentioned her before but…”
Thorax brightened. “That’s right, you haven’t met Ocellus!”
“We are not going all the way to Ponyville just to say hello to the ki-”
“Ocellus is the brightest nymph in the Hive! She loves reading and attends Princess Twilight’s School of Friendship in Ponyville. She’s also technically my protege, she’s going to be our royal advisor one day.”
Metamorphosis smiled. “That’s a wonderful idea, having a young nymph train to be a royal advisor. She’ll have the new ideas and creativity of the next generation, and you two will have the insight of the older generations.”
“Exactly!” Thorax smiled “Princess Twilight’s school actually plays host to students from different kingdoms. And it just so happens that Ocellus has made friends with them. It will give the relations between other kingdoms and our kingdom the chance to grow and thrive.”
“I know I haven’t met Ocellus yet, but it seems like you picked a great changeling to become your advisor.” Metamorphosis smiled
“I know she’ll be a great advisor.” Thorax agreed “You should meet her!”
“Thorax, we have duties here, we can’t just fly off to Ponyville because you feel like it!” Pharynx snapped
“But-” Thorax started to say
“We. Aren’t. Going. Anywhere.”
Thorax sighed. “Well… what if we’re really quick about it?” he pouted at his brother.
“I… Oh for the hivemother’s sake -fine.” Pharynx sighed, facehoofing. “If you finish all your boring kingly duties, it probably won’t hurt to visit for a little bit-”
“Thank you!” Thorax leapt and hugged him. “Thank you Pharynx, thank you!”
“Any excuse to not have to train idiots, I guess…”
“Love you bro!”
“Yeah, and I love breathing.” Pharynx spat, and Thorax released him.
“Hehe… sorry…” Thorax looked over to Metamorphosis. “Hey dad, before I start my duties for the day, would you want to see the nursery?”
“Of course! I love nymphs!”
“And the nymphs love Thorax, so it all works.” Pharynx rolled his eyes. “I’m going to head to the training fields, the idiots-I mean soldiers-won’t train themselves.” he then headed off.
“Heh, well, come on dad, let’s go!” Thorax trotted off, Metamorphosis behind him.
Metamorphosis buzzed his wings as he waited for his sons. Thorax trotted up, smiling.
“Ready to go, dad?”
“I’m ready when you are Thorax.”
“We’re just waiting on Pharynx. He may not be happy about the selection of soldiers but he still needs to train them.”
Metamorphosis and Thorax then heard hoofsteps and turned to see Pharynx stalking out of the Hive.
“Pharynx, is everything alright?” Metamorphosis asked his son, noticing the less than happy expression on his face.
“Yeah, I’m good… just a bunch of changelings being pebble-brains. One of them tried to hold the crossbow backwards and nearly shot himself in the chest.”
Thorax’s eyes widened. “Is he okay?”
“He’s fine. Retina, one of the smart ones, stopped him. She's the most competent of them all and for that I'm grateful.”
“That’s a relief.”
“Then one of the other idiots nearly skewered me with a poorly thrown spear…”
“What?! Are you okay?!”
“Do you see a spear sticking out of my skull?”
Thorax sighed. “Sorry, I’m just… I worry.”
“I know, which is why I don’t tell you about all that happens just on a daily basis during training.”
“Wait… what happens?”
“...So, are we going or what?”
Thorax sighed and nodded. “Alright, I won’t press it, let’s go.”
Thorax and Pharynx unfurled their gossamer wings, and took off. Metamorphosis buzzed his own purple wings and followed them.
They’d been flying for a while, and as they neared Equestria, Metamorphosis transformed. He became a Pegasus stallion with a dark coat and red mane.
“Dad, you don’t have to disguise yourself.” Thorax said
“Actually, it’s not a bad idea.” Pharynx said “Ponies are used to seeing reformed changelings. There’s no telling how they’d react to an unreformed one, especially considering dad is so much different in appearance to the typical unreformed changeling.”
“Exactly.” Metamorphosis nodded. “I am aware that I look like Chrysalis, what with my mane, eyes, and horn. From a distance, I could be falsely viewed as her.”
“Well, alright…” Thorax sighed “But once we reach Ponyville, I want you to change back, so Ocellus and Princess Twilight can see you in your true form. I-If that’s alright with you, I mean…”
Metamorphosis chuckled. “You don’t have to be afraid of ordering me around, Thorax. I may be your father but you are the king. I made it very clear when you brought me back to the Hive that I wish to live my life as a subject, not a leader. That means that you have every right to boss me around, your majesty.”
Thorax blushed. “O-Okay dad… just… please don’t call me your majesty… I’ve told everyone I would rather just be called Thorax.”
“Which is why everyling is so relaxed and barely listens to the policies that I have to put in place and enforce.” Pharynx grumbled.
Thorax flew closer to Pharynx and gave him a quick side-hug. “And I’m very grateful that you do. We need a great general like you.”
Pharynx smiled. “Thanks bro.”
“Heh, anytime Phar.” Thorax nuzzled him before pulling ahead. “We’re nearing Ponyville!”
“Already?” Pharynx asked
“Heh, we were flying pretty fast…”
“Fair enough.”
They flew over the large forest before lowering down to land. They hit the ground outside the quaint little village with its towering castle.
Metamorphosis’ eyes widened upon seeing the castle.
“Dad? What’s wrong?” Thorax asked
“It’s just… I realize how long it’s been since I saw Equestria myself. The last time would have been when I was a nymph, and we were taken to view Equestria.”
Pharynx chuckled. “Then you definitely missed a lot.”
“So this is the Princess’ castle?”
“Mhm. Come on, let’s get closer.” Thorax smiled “Um… could you untransform, please?”
Metamorphosis nodded and transformed back to normal in a flash. He stood beside Thorax as Pharynx led the way. Thorax led them along a path so they would avoid the town, heading directly for the castle.
“Tempest?” Metamorphosis asked as he spotted the familiar unicorn trotting out of the castle.
“She’s Princess Twilight’s guard.” Pharynx explained, unfurling his wings and fluttering over to greet her.
Thorax and Metamorphosis gave each other knowing grins. Pharynx was oblivious to this, too busy blushing as he talked with the mare.
“-Just finishing my rounds, I can escort you to the Princess if you want.”
“Thanks Temp, but we wouldn’t want to throw off your routine…” Pharynx said
“Don’t be silly.” Tempest smirked and pressed against him, intertwining her tail with his fragile one momentarily. “I’d love to escort you, my king…”
Thorax and Metamorphosis both began snickering as they reached the couple. Tempest blushed and pulled away from Pharynx as they approached.
"So, Pharynx is the king then?" Thorax teased.
“Aheheh…” Pharynx chuckled and blushed. “I… she’s… I’m not trying to replace you, Thorax.”
“I know.” Thorax smiled and nuzzled his brother. “It’s sweet.”
Tempest chuckled softly. “Anyway, I’d be happy to escort you to the Princess. It’s pretty much my job as a guard anyway. And I’ll get to give my report to her highness.”
“Heh, alright Tempest, lead the way.”
Tempest nodded and led them into the castle.
“All the better I’m taking you, anyway. Took me the greater part of a year to navigate this place after returning here once spreading word of the Storm King’s defeat.”
Metamorphosis looked around, entranced by the reflective and sparkling surfaces. Thorax watched this and chuckled.
“Pretty, right? It took me a while to get over it when I first saw it.” Thorax said with a smile.
“Heh… it is pretty beautiful…”
“Too bad it’s a maze.” Tempest remarked. “This way.”
Tempest led them towards one of the doors… which looked exactly like the other doors. Before she opened it, however, they heard laughter coming from inside.
“Strange… the Princess is usually in the library but she wouldn’t be making this much noise.”
Tempest then ignited her broken horn, opening the door a crack. Whatever she saw made her roll her eyes.
“Of course. Hey, Thorax, Phar mentioned you wanted Metamorphosis to meet Ocellus, right?”
“Yes…?”
“Well, here’s his chance.” Tempest pushed open the door all the way, so they could all see.
Inside the library was a group of six different creatures, all engaged in various activities. Metamorphosis’ eyes had to widen in order for him to take it all in.
A blue and yellow griffon was seated in the center of the room, which appeared to be a library. He was talking and laughing with a green-themed earth pony. An orange and purple dragon leaned against a nearby wall of books, eating a gem. A pink hippogriff -- a creature Metamorphosis had only ever read about -- zoomed around overhead, grabbing seemingly random books off the shelves. The fifth creature, a young yak, bounded around underneath the hippogriff, catching the books that the flying creature tossed down to her large companion.
Lastly, sitting calmly beside the dragon amidst all the sounds and action going on around her… was a young reformed changeling. She had pale blue chitin with a light pink carapace and tail, and a pink frill down her neck. The changeling was reading a book, her teal eyes flicking over the pages rapidly.
“Is… is that…?”
Thorax smiled and poked his head into the room. “Ocellus!” he greeted brightly.
The other creatures stopped and looked over at him, as the changeling tore her gaze from the book and looked up.
Metamorphosis watched as the young changeling, Ocellus, stood up. She lifted up her book with a clear white aura coming from the curved horn on her head. Ocellus set the book on a nearby table and trotted to Thorax, who entered the library fully.
“What are you doing here? The next visiting day isn’t for a few more months.” Ocellus said, brushing against the changeling leader in greeting.
“Heh, I know. But Pharynx and I came because we have someone for you to meet.”
“Really? Who?” the young changeling asked inquisitively.
Thorax smiled and rested a hoof on her head momentarily, then looked up at the other creatures.
“Well… if your friends wouldn’t mind maybe letting us talk to you privately about it?”
“Sure, we’ll clear out.” The dragon shoved the rest of her gem in her mouth, then started walking towards a door on the opposite end of the library.
The griffon took off and led the way out, the other creatures following behind. Once the door had closed behind them, Ocellus looked up at Thorax.
“You can by all means tell them what happens later, okay? I just figured you’d want to have the choice on how much to tell them about what we’re going to tell you.”
“Okay King Thorax.”
“Ocellus…”
“Okay… Thorax.”
“Thank you.”
Thorax then walked over to the table, leading Ocellus. Pharynx entered the library next.
“I’m going to find the Princess and bring her here, okay?” Tempest told him, and Pharynx nodded.
“Hello Pharynx.” Ocellus greeted the General kindly as he walked in.
“Hello kid.”
“Alright… Ocellus, do you remember what Pharynx and I told you, about how we were going to look for our father?”
“Of course.” Ocellus smiled at them. “Are you back already? It wasn’t bad, was it?”
“No, no, nothing like that.” Thorax smiled and rubbed Ocellus’ head. “We… we found him, but I want you to not freak out when you see him.”
“You brought him here?” Ocellus beamed
“Mhm.”
Thorax looked to the door, and Metamorphosis nodded before entering the room. He locked eyes with Ocellus. Her eyes widened and she backed up, knocking into Thorax, who put a hoof around her.
“Ocellus, it’s alright. I promise.” Thorax murmured, and Ocellus nodded hesitantly.
Metamorphosis trotted forwards and sat down on his haunches, then lowered himself down to lie on his stomach. Now he was eye level with her, and offered her a kind smile.
“Hi… Ocellus, right? Thorax has told me a lot about you.” he said softly.
Ocellus, who was still hiding between Thorax’s forelegs, cautiously peeked out. Metamorphosis gave her a tentative smile.
“He said you like reading. What kinds of books do you like?”
“H-History… fantasy… fiction and non-fiction…” Ocellus whispered, stepping out from behind Thorax’s forelegs.
“Heh, I always enjoyed hearing stories and legends from other kingdoms. It’s a shame we didn’t have any stories of our own.” Metamorphosis said, extending a hoof gently.
Ocellus reached and laid her own hoof on top of his. She then offered a smile and stepped away from Thorax completely. Metamorphosis smiled and pulled his hoof back, as Ocellus leaned forwards to touch noses with him in greeting.
“It’s nice to meet you…” Ocellus murmured.
“Nice to meet you too.” Metamorphosis nuzzled her. “So, what were you reading before we came in?”
Ocellus lit up her horn and levitated the book over and showed him the cover. “It’s a book about the trials of Clover the Clever. He was a Unicorn mage back during the time of Starswirl the Bearded.” Ocellus explained, and Metamorphosis smiled.
“It sounds very interesting.”
“I-It is…” Ocellus said
“Heh, would you like us to read with you while we wait for Princess Twilight?” Thorax asked
“O-Okay…” Ocellus smiled as Thorax laid down in a similar position to Metamorphosis.
Ocellus beamed and laid down between Thorax’s forelegs, curling up in front of him. Metamorphosis got up and laid on Thorax’s right side. Pharynx sighed heavily before sitting to Thorax’s left. Ocellus giggled as she eyed him, then opened her book.
The group all sat in silence as they read over Ocellus’ shoulder. Thorax nuzzled Ocellus gently and she giggled. Metamorphosis chuckled and leaned against Thorax. Pharynx sighed and settled down eventually. He even leaned closer to get a better look.
“Heh, interested?” Thorax asked Pharynx slyly.
“N-No…” Pharynx stammered
“Heh, you are.”
“I am not!”
“Are to-”
“Boys.” Metamorphosis chided, and they fell silent, though they seemed to give each other looks as though they were communicating silently.
Ocellus glanced up at him, and he smiled softly.
“Figured they were distracting you.” he murmured, lowering his head to whisper to her. “I’ve seen enough of their interactions to know they banter a lot.”
Ocellus nodded. “It looks like they’re telepathically communicating.” she giggled
“Well, as clutch-mates they are technically twins. I’ve heard that twins share deeper connections than other siblings.”
“I read about that…” Ocellus smiled “It seems really interesting. I have younger siblings, they’re ‘twins’. When they get older I think I’ll ask them if they share a deep connection. Maybe it will explain why Thorax and Pharynx are glaring at each other.”
“Heh, maybe.” Metamorphosis watched the two nudge each other and share looks. “They’re so different, yet so alike…”
“Mhm. It’s why I’m being trained by them both. Thorax teaches me about gaining personal connections with the other changelings, and Pharynx insists on training me in self defense. Headmare Twilight’s school was a compromise made by them because it would teach me government relations.”
“That sounds like them alright.” Metamorphosis smiled “Mind telling me about your friends?”
“Well, there’s Gallus… he’s the griffon. He’s our kind of leader… we’ve never made it definite but he seems to take on the leadership role. Then there’s the pony, Sandbar. He’s calm, sensitive, kind, and one of the peace makers of our group, kind of like me…”
“Heh, that makes sense, you seem like the peaceful type.”
“Mhm. Then the dragoness, Smolder. She’s fiery, fierce, strong, brave, loyal… she’s perfect…” Ocellus blushed “Heh…”
“You two are…”
“No! At least… not yet…” Ocellus shook her head “Anyway, next is Yona, she’s a yak. She’s strong and honest. Last is Silverstream, the hippogriff. She’s really bubbly and energetic.”
“They sound like great friends.”
“They are.” Ocellus agreed
Thorax was now nuzzling Pharynx, who was shoving him away. Ocellus stood and curled up in between Metamorphosis’ forelegs instead. He chuckled and shifted slightly.
“You kind of give off the same energy as Thorax…” Ocellus murmured
“I have heard Pharynx, Ember, and Tempest say similar things.” Metamorphosis chuckled
“You met Ember and Tempest?”
“Mhm. They were quite nice.”
Ocellus smiled and nodded. She curled up and turned back to her book. “I like you. You seem nice.”
“Thank you.” Metamorphosis smiled
“What in the name of Celestia?!”
Chapter 5: Hello Princess Twilight (And Starlight Glimmer. And Spike)
Metamorphosis looked up, Thorax and Pharynx startling as well. Tempest Shadow stood beside a lavender alicorn, who was standing in shock.
“Twilight!” Thorax stood eagerly, Pharynx also standing.
“Thorax, who is that?”
“He kind of looks like Pharynx used to.” A Unicorn poked her head into the room behind the two mares. She was also lavender, but her mane had a bright blue streak in it.
“Well, you see…” Thorax began, as Ocellus stood up and moved to a corner of the room. “The reason he resembles Pharynx when he was unreformed is because, well…”
“He’s your… what?” the alicorn, Twilight, trotted over, looking at Metamorphosis. “Why do you look so much like Chrysalis? And why aren’t you transformed?”
Metamorphosis gulped. “No one knows why I look like Chrysalis. I have been different ever since I hatched. I’m not transformed because I am for some reason unable to.”
“Unable to?” Twilight lit up her horn and Metamorphosis was bathed in her magenta aura. “It seems like some kind of birth defect. Maybe it has to do with why you look different.”
Metamorphosis nodded in understanding. Twilight continued observing him. He shifted uncomfortably and Thorax stepped in.
“Um, Twilight? Maybe this isn’t the best time…”
“Oh, right.” Twilight blushed sheepishly and backed away.
The new unicorn, who was still standing beside Tempest, now trotted up.
“Huh, I mean, he looks completely identical to Pharynx’s old form. All the way down to the jagged purple carapace and the red neckfin, or mane, I guess.”
“Wh-Who are you, exactly?” Metamorphosis asked
“Heh, Starlight Glimmer.”
“Oh, that pony…” Metamorphosis’ face darkened slightly. “Pharynx mentioned what you said about him being… right, a ‘lost cause’.”
Starlight paled. “I-I, uh-”
“He also mentioned that you were ready to tell Thorax to kick him out of the Hive.”
“I-I regret saying-”
“And that you and your friend were more concerned over who should ‘break the news to Thorax’ instead of over how Pharynx might feel about you deciding to give up on him.”
Starlight continued to stammer as Twilight also fixed her with a look. Meanwhile, Tempest stood stoically by the door. However, the smirk she sent Starlight’s way showed she was enjoying watching Starlight squirm over such a big mistake. After all, Starlight had been under Twilight’s guidance much longer than Tempest, and should have known better.
“Starlight, I thought I taught you-”
“Okay dad, I think she’s sufficiently scared, you can drop the act now.” Pharynx remarked.
Metamorphosis pulled back from his intimidation and glanced over. “Too much?”
“I would say yes but Thorax has dragged me to the theater club’s plays before. This wasn’t half as dramatic as those things.”
“Hey!” Thorax glared at him.
“Wait, you were acting?” Starlight asked
“Changeling. You did something to hurt his son’s feelings. What did you think was going to happen?” Tempest spoke up, making Starlight glare back at her.
“Aren’t guards supposed to be silent?”
“When serving her majesty, yes. When teasing you for hurting my boyfriend’s feelings, no.” Tempest replied dryly
“I knew you two were dating! Yes! Trixie owes me fifty bits!”
Tempest then facehoofed. “Why do I try…”
“Well, you weren’t wrong.” Pharynx said in defense of his mare. She chuckled softly, smiling at him.
“But… but how could you tell? He was really selling it.” Starlight asked Pharynx.
“Because I’ve spent time with him. Anyone who has spoken with dad on a personal and not professional level for at least five minutes will be able to tell you that he’s the one that Thorax gets his personality from.”
Thorax huffed. “You’re just mad that this means Chrysalis was probably favoring you a bit for being more like her in personality.”
“Maybe I am but that’s beside the point.” Pharynx shot back. “Point being, dad may get serious at times and I’m sure part of how he was acting was genuine. But in the end he was only trying to intimidate you.”
Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled Pharynx, making him swat him away. “Heh, thank you for explaining, Pharynx. And demonstrating your intelligence.”
“Yeah yeah, whatever.”
“Heh, seems like he’s really adapted to a family lifestyle.” Twilight commented
“As I said, Thorax and dad share the same personality. It makes perfect sense that he’d immediately adapt to the new saccharine lifestyle Thorax has invoked.”
Thorax and Metamorphosis let out identical exasperated sighs, merely proving Pharynx’s point and making the others laugh.
“So, what now?” Starlight asked
“You apologize to my son for what you said about him.” Metamorphosis replied
Starlight chuckled sheepishly. “Right… Pharynx, I’m really sorry… Trixie and I never meant to-”
“I don’t believe you.” Pharynx cut in
“But-”
“I don’t believe that you didn’t mean everything you said. I’m positive you did at the time. I accept your apology, sure. But I don’t want to hear lies about how you didn’t mean what you said.” Pharynx elaborated. “So just drop it.”
Starlight blinked, then nodded and quietly left the room. Tempest received a look from Twilight and rolled her eyes before following the mare, presumably to talk to her. Ocellus tapped Thorax's shoulder, apparently having returned to his side.
"I-I think I'm going to catch up with my friends now, is that alright?"
Thorax smiled. "It's perfectly fine Ocellus, go on."
“Alright, now what?” Pharynx looked over to his father and brother as the nymph hurried out of the room, picking her book up on the way.
“Well, Pharynx… are you sure you’re okay with-?”
“Thorax, we’ve been over this. I don’t directly blame her for everything that happened that day. She’s definitely one of the ones who was at fault but she doesn’t need all my hatred. Let’s just move on.”
“Alright, alright.” Thorax leaned down and nuzzled him. “But you’re definitely getting snuggles tonight whether you like it or not.” he whispered
“Not.”
“Still giving you snuggles.”
“Whatever.”
Thorax nuzzled him once more, then looked up. “So, Twilight, is Spike around?”
“Oh, yes, actually. He was getting a snack.”
“I was. What’s going on in here?” a light purple dragon with green accents flew into the room. He was fairly small, and snacking on a bowl of gemstones.
“Spike!” Thorax trotted over eagerly.
“Thorax, hey!” the dragon set the gems on a table and let Thorax hug him. “What are you doing here? Twilight didn’t tell me you were coming!”
“Well, we came to see Ocellus, Pharynx and I-” Thorax began, releasing Spike, before a cough from Pharynx interrupted him. “Fine, I wanted her to meet someone.”
“Who?” Spike asked, then noticed Metamorphosis. “Whoa, who’s he?”
“Heh, this is our father, Metamorphosis.”
“He’s your dad? Wait, how have you never talked about him before?”
Thorax looked at Twilight, who blushed sheepishly.
“Spike may have been busy while I was telling Starlight what you said about not knowing who your father was…”
“Wait, so, you guys forgot to tell me something important again?” Spike asked
“I… I’m sorry Spike, that’s my fault this time.” Twilight trotted over and hugged him. “I’ll explain more later, okay?”
“Okay…” Spike looked over. “So, um… as long as you’re here…”
“Heh, what is it Spike?”
“If I could… maybe show you guys Ogres and Oubliettes?”
“Sure.” Thorax smiled at him. “I’ve been looking forward to seeing what you like about it so much.”
Spike cheered. “Yes! Thanks Thorax, come on!”
Spike flew out of the room. Thorax followed, Metamorphosis and Pharynx trotting behind, clearly confused.
“Pharynx, do you know what-”
“Not a clue.”
“Oh…” Metamorphosis felt a worry growing on what this apparent game might entail.
About three hours later, however, Metamorphosis found he understood the game and enjoyed it. Even Pharynx seemed to be getting into it, though he was feigning indifference.
“Spike! I know you want to play this game but I need your help.” Twilight entered the room with the circular table they had been playing on.
“Oh alright…” Spike sighed. “Give me a minute to put this up-”
Twilight lit up her horn and the pieces placed themselves back in the box.
“Oh… okay. Thanks.” Spike jumped down from his seat and flew over to her.
Thorax, Pharynx, and Metamorphosis followed his lead. As Spike left the room, Twilight looked over at them.
“Thorax, do you think you’ll be telling the other leaders about Metamorphosis?”
“Well, eventually… we have a visit to the Crystal Empire coming up in a few days, so that might be a good time to tell Cadence and Shining… we’ll be surprising them with the trip.”
“I won’t say anything the-”
“Well, at least you’re telling me about the trip ahead of time this time.” Pharynx interrupted
“I apologized for that already!”
“Didn’t make up for the day of training that was lost.”
Pharynx and Thorax headed out of the room, exchanging banter. Metamorphosis chuckled slightly, then looked at Twilight.
“Thank you for letting us stay this long, Princess.”
“It’s no trouble, Spike doesn’t get to spend time with Thorax as often as he’d like. And please, call me Twilight. All my friends do.”
Metamorphosis smiled as he felt her willingly share some love with him. She had called him her friend. Metamorphosis nodded to show he understood, before following his sons out, preparing himself for most likely needing to break up a fight.
Metamorphosis sighed, sitting up in bed. He stood and left the room for some water. His room didn’t have a private bathroom like Thorax’s and Pharynx’s rooms, so he headed to the kitchen.
After getting a glass of water, he headed back to his room, holding the glass in his magic. But as Metamorphosis neared his room, which was adjacent to Thorax and Pharynx’s, he heard a noise. Metamorphosis stopped and listened closely. It was coming from Pharynx’s room.
Metamorphosis recalled how Thorax had insisted earlier that day on giving Pharynx snuggles, so shouldn’t they have been in Thorax’s room? Metamorphosis reached and opened the door a crack.
Pharynx was a lump under the bedsheets. He was thrashing around and Metamorphosis could hear him mumbling in his sleep.
“N-No… I-I am a competent… they’re the idiots… I-I’m not… lost cause… sh-shuddap you… pebble-brained… rainbow moosebugs… s-stop it, dammit… I-I said shuddap… I-I’m not… evil!”
Pharynx shot up in bed, gasping and panting. Metamorphosis’ eyes widened, seeing tears running down Pharynx’s face. Pharynx fell back down onto the bed and curled up in a ball, clearly crying and obviously upset.
Metamorphosis opened the door fully, he couldn’t watch his son hurt any more. He walked over and rubbed Pharynx’s back, making him look up.
“D-Dad…?” Pharynx whispered hoarsely. “Pl-Please tell me this isn’t a dream…”
“Of course it's not Pharynx.” Metamorphosis nuzzled his cheek, and for once Pharynx didn’t shy away.
“D-Dad…” Pharynx wrapped his hooves around Metamorphosis’ neck.
“Shh, shh, it’s okay…” Metamorphosis soothed, levitating his still full glass of water over to his son. “Here, drink some water and take slow, deep breaths.”
Pharynx took it in his own magic and took a few sips, breathing slowing. He was calming down. Metamorphosis sat on the bed and let Pharynx lean against him.
“Why isn’t Thorax with you?”
“He… he was… I think he went back to his room, he did mention he had some stuff to do before bed…” Pharynx responded, his raw throat making his voice hoarse.
Metamorphosis nodded in understanding. Thorax had probably planned to come back, then fallen asleep. If their conversation from the morning after he’d come home was enough of an indication, Thorax clearly didn’t sleep much due to the work of being a leader.
“Pharynx… you don’t have to tell me what happened, but if you feel ready to, I would like to know.” Metamorphosis murmured
Pharynx stayed quiet for a while, and Metamorphosis didn’t press him. He simply sat by his son’s side, rubbing his back and letting Pharynx rest on him. Then…
“I-I was standing in a black void…” Pharynx murmured. “I-I was unreformed again… and I couldn’t move… then…”
Metamorphosis heard Pharynx choke back a sob and pulled him closer.
“Then… their voices…”
“Whose?”
“E-Everyone’s…” Pharynx responded, and Metamorphosis’ eyes widened.
“You heard… everyone?”
Pharynx nodded. “T-Tempest’s, s-saying I was a horrible general because I couldn’t control my troops… S-Starlight and her dumb friend, s-saying I was a lost cause… everyling in the Hive, ch-chanting that they wanted me banished… I-I told them to shut up… c-called them names like I do to motivate them when we train but… but they just got louder and louder…”
Metamorphosis pulled Pharynx close, nuzzling him. He buried his head in Metamorphosis’ shoulder, seeking the warmth and love from his father.
“Th-They called me evil and said I was a traitor… they made fun of my efforts to stabilize our military… th-then… wh-when I struggled, I-I turned around and… she was there…”
“Pharynx, who is ‘she’?”
“...M-Mother…”
Metamorphosis froze. He knew that Thorax had apparently had trouble with Chrysalis back in what was now called the ‘Old Days’. But from all that his sons had told him, Pharynx was the favoured child. That Chrysalis had never tried to punish or hurt him the way she had Thorax.
“Go on, it’s okay…” Metamorphosis urged, hoping if Pharynx continued he would give him answers.
“She… she knew I was trying to run… she c-called me her only heir… s-said Thorax was dead… he-he’s not… r-right?”
“No, of course not Pharynx, he’s safe.” Metamorphosis soothed.
“Th-Then, I… I was suddenly sitting on the throne of the old Hive… she-she was beside me, I-I was wearing a crown… O-Ocellus was sitting in chains at my hooves and… and she c-called me a monster… she s-said I was evil… th-that I betrayed them all… Th-Thorax was gone thanks to me…”
“Oh Pharynx…” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “None of that is true, I promise you. You are not a monster, nor are you evil. Thorax is alive and it’s because of you that he is safe and protected.”
Pharynx continued crying, gripping Metamorphosis and trembling. Metamorphosis eventually laid down in Pharynx’s bed. While it wasn’t nearly as large as the bed he’d seen in Thorax’s room, it was big enough for them both.
“It’s alright Pharynx, it’s going to be okay.” Metamorphosis kissed his son’s forehead soothingly.
“N-Nigh’… ury…” Pharynx mumbled, clutching his father.
“What?”
“N-Night Fury… he… he’s under the bed…”
Metamorphosis, though confused, lit up his horn and lifted something out from under the bed. A small black and purple dragon plushie. He laid it in front of Pharynx, hoping that this was what he was talking about. Pharynx grabbed it and hugged it, still crying.
“Night Fury?”
“It’s… it’s his name…” Pharynx mumbled, blushing through his tears.
Metamorphosis smiled kindly and nuzzled him. “It’s a nice name. Is he your… comfort object?”
“I… I guess…” Pharynx hugged the toy. “O-Ocellus gave him to me… I… I didn’t think I’d end up relying on him so much…”
Metamorphosis smiled softly, pulling Pharynx closer. “Everyone has comfort items that they find themselves holding onto or habits that they do when they’re scared or stressed.”
Pharynx didn’t respond, simply pressing against his father.
“I know you must be scared, more than you’re letting on… but… have these happened before?”
Pharynx sniffed and wiped his eyes. “E-Ever since I transformed… most nights I don’t have them… sometimes I don’t dream at all… but on bad nights… they change every time, but in each one, I… I hear the other ‘lings, and Starlight and Trixie… sometimes it’s Thorax instead of Tempest… but it doesn’t matter… I’m a monster again every time…”
“You are not a monster.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Have you told Thorax?”
“Y-Yes… he… he found out when I wasn’t able to get sleep for three nights in a row… I collapsed while training the soldiers… Retina was the one who called for help…”
Metamorphosis remembered the name from Pharynx’s earlier mention. The soldier had stopped someone from shooting themselves in the chest. Pharynx had implied she was one of the best.
“Th-Thorax waited with me while I was unconscious… when I woke up he practically demanded I tell him what happened… he… he told me to come to him next time… then he stayed with me while I caught up on sleep…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I can certainly understand that. He cares about your wellbeing as much as you care about his.”
“Y-Yeah…” Pharynx sniffed and burrowed into Metamorphosis. “I… I hate to admit it, but… I… I really need him right now…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I’m sure he’ll be back soon. Until then, I’m here.”
“I… I know… and I’m glad you are…” Pharynx nestled against him. “Thanks dad…”
“No need to thank me, Pharynx.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “You’re my child, it’s my job to make sure you’re alright.”
Pharynx giggled softly, and Metamorphosis smiled softly, glad he’d been able to calm his son. It was quiet for a while, Metamorphosis thought Pharynx might have fallen asleep again. But then, he spoke.
“Y-you know… I-I was having a good dream at first…” Pharynx whispered “I was sparring with Tempest… I think Thorax was watching us… but then…”
Metamorphosis waited patiently as Pharynx fell silent.
“Th-Then I felt something disappear… it was probably around when Thorax left… and the nightmare came…”
Metamorphosis nodded. Pharynx had probably felt comfort and love from Thorax in his sleep, the only thing keeping the nightmare at bay. Once it disappeared… he was like prey, ready to be caught unawares.
“Do you know why you keep having these dreams?”
“N-No… I think that’s what scares me most, really…” Pharynx mumbled, clutching his plushie. “I don’t like not knowing…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Well, Thorax and I will always be here if you need to talk.”
“Alright… thank you dad…”
“It’s no trouble, my son.” Metamorphosis kissed Pharynx’s forehead.
Pharynx smiled, closing his eyes and cuddling against his father. Metamorphosis held Pharynx close as he fell back asleep.
“Goodnight Pharynx.”
“Mm… night dad…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I hope you have only good dreams until morning…”
Pharynx smiled and hugged his plushie. “I… I will… now that you’re here…”
Metamorphosis smiled, holding his son close, and soon, they were both asleep.
Metamorphosis had chosen the pegasus as his disguise again. Thorax and Pharynx hadn’t minded, and he knew his true form should be something kept unknown to the general public for the time being. They were walking into the Crystal Empire.
“So this has been gone for thousands of years?”
“Yes.” Thorax smiled. “But apparently the crystal ponies have been easily and quickly integrating into the rest of Equestrian society.”
Pharynx rolled his eyes at Thorax. “He also enjoys talking it up because it’s his second home.”
Thorax blushed. “Well, these are the ponies that allowed me to stay with them when I left the Hive. Shining and Cadence treated me like family and looked after me, I could never repay them for that.”
Metamorphosis smiled, recalling the stories Thorax had told him. How this Princess Cadence and her husband Prince Shining Armor had granted Thorax asylum, taking him in and letting him live in the castle with them while treating him as a part of the family. Somehow, some way, Metamorphosis would repay them for their generosity and kindness to his son.
The three changelings approached the large castle. A pair of guards approached them.
“Who goes there?” one of them asked
“King Thorax, I’m here to see Shining and Cadence.”
“Thorax!”
A pink coated alicorn with a mane striped in pink, purple, and yellow trotted up. She was followed by a unicorn stallion with a white coat and multi shaded blue mane. Thorax beamed as he saw them.
“Cadence! Shining!” he trotted forwards to give them both hugs.
“It’s so wonderful to see you again Thorax.” Princess Cadence nuzzled him.
“Heh, yeah, but what are you doing here?” Shining Armor asked
“I wanted to surprise you.” Thorax smiled as Pharynx trotted over, followed by Metamorphosis, who was still in disguise. “You’ve met my brother before, right?”
“On occasion.” Cadence nodded, smiling at Pharynx, then noticing Metamorphosis. “But, who is this pegasus?”
“About that… could we maybe go to the throne room?”
“Oh, of course.”
Cadence and Shining Armor led them into the throne room. Waiting for them was another unicorn, this one with a yellow coat with white splotches, and an orange mane. He carried a bassinet in his magic.
“Sunburst, hi!” Thorax called
“Thorax?” the unicorn, Sunburst, adjusted his glasses. “I didn’t know you’d be visiting today.”
Thorax smiled sheepishly. “It was supposed to be a surprise visit. So, where’s Flurry?”
Sunburst smiled and tilted the bassinet towards them. A small alicorn filly poked her head out.
“Tora!” the filly reached out her hooves, babbling.
“Heh, hello Flurry.” Thorax leaned down to nuzzle her, then straightened back up.
“Heh, so…” Shining prompted as he and Cadence went to their daughter.
Thorax nodded, then beckoned to Pharynx and Metamorphosis. As they joined him, he took a breath.
“Shining, Cadence, a little while ago, Pharynx and I left the Hive to search for our father.”
“Your father?” Cadence blinked.
Thorax nodded. “I’m not sure if you remember me telling you this, but Pharynx and I’s mother was Chrysalis.”
“Yes, I do remember.” Cadence nodded. “Though… I must say I’m surprised she fell in love with someone.”
“Heh, well, she did.” Thorax chuckled. Cadence looked down at Metamorphosis.
“So, is that why this pegasus is here?”
“Not quite… he’s not a pegasus.” Thorax smiled down at Metamorphosis. “We’re alone now, you know. You can change back.”
Metamorphosis nodded. In a flash, he stood at his usual height. Cadence, Shining Armor, and Sunburst all backed up slightly.
“This is Metamorphosis, our father.” Thorax explained
“Thorax, he’s-” Shining began to say, but Pharynx cut him off.
“He’s unable to transform, but believe me, he’s identical to Thorax in personality.”
“Hey!” Thorax said, glaring at him.
“What? It was a compliment. In this case, anyway.”
“Pharynx…” Metamorphosis spoke, glaring at him.
Pharynx shrugged, unconcerned. Metamorphosis and Thorax gave each other knowing looks. Cadence giggled softly.
“I believe I see what Pharynx meant.”
“That’s the irony, he looks like I used to and acts like Thorax does all the time.” Pharynx chuckled
“So, Metamorphosis, right?” Shining trotted closer to him. “You were Chrysalis’ mate?”
“Yes.” Metamorphosis nodded. “I was picked by her to be her advisor, and we ended up becoming much more to each other.”
Cadence giggled. “I can’t believe I’m saying this about Chrysalis, but that’s very romantic.”
Shining looked at her and she blinked innocently. Metamorphosis chuckled.
“Yes, Chrissy didn’t often display signs of affection, but she always did for me.” he said
“Chrissy? Oh, that’s adorable.” Cadence said
Metamorphosis blushed, nodding. “Yes, I suppose it is…”
“I do wonder why you look different.” Cadence said
“No one knows, I’m afraid.” Metamorphosis replied. "Though Princess Twilight believes it has something to do with the unusual genetics that made me look like this."
“Well, either way, it’s lovely to meet you, Metamorphosis.” Cadence smiled
Metamorphosis nodded, then offered a bow. Cadence looked startled, and Thorax and Pharynx glanced at their father in confusion.
“Your highnesses, I am more than aware of the fact that you were kind enough to grant Thorax asylum while he was away from the Hive. I doubt I will ever be able to repay your kindness to a species you had once known as the enemy. But I still wish to pay back what you did for my son in any way possible.” he said
“Oh, you don’t have to repay us, Metamorphosis.” Cadence smiled as Metamorphosis straightened back up. “We have come to know Thorax as family, one of our own. And family should never have to pay for things like that.”
Metamorphosis bowed his head. “Then I merely offer my thanks and undying gratitude.”
Cadence nodded. “I would accept nothing more.”
Thorax stepped forward, trying to change subjects. “Dad will be helping Pharynx and I with ruling the kingdom. Seeing as he’s had experience doing so before he’d be a great help.”
“Ah, speaking of which,” Cadence lit up her horn and a scroll appeared. “Aunt Celestia was going to have this sent to the Hive with her magic, but she’s been very busy and asked me to send it instead. I suppose I should just give it to you now.”
“Oh, thanks Cadence.” Thorax took the scroll and opened it. “It’s an invitation?”
“Yes. Aunt Celestia figured it was about time for all the kingdom’s leaders, new and old ones alike, to meet face to face instead of one on one.” Cadence explained
“New and old?” Metamorphosis questioned.
“Many of the kingdoms have new leaders. Ember, Thorax, and myself, for instance. While others, like Queen Novo of the hippogriffs and Prince Rutherford of the yaks, have been in charge for longer than us.” Cadence explained
Thorax nodded. “Yes, it seems like the meeting’s supposed to be next week.”
“Yes, Aunt Celestia said she hoped to see you there.”
“Heh, we’ll be there.” Thorax looked at Metamorphosis. “Dad, do you think you should come? Or would you be more comfortable staying at the Hive and looking after things there?”
Metamorphosis took a breath. “I believe I should go with you. I’m tired of hiding from others, and I am ready to reveal myself to the other kingdoms.”
“Alright then dad.” Thorax smiled at him, and he smiled back. Thorax then looked to Cadence and Shining. “Sorry to leave so soon, but Pharynx and I will have a lot of things to take care of if we want to be able to come to this meeting next week.”
“Oh, it’s perfectly alright Thorax, we understand.” Cadence gave him a hug. “Though I do hope next time you’ll be able to stay a little longer. Maybe during a Crystal Fair? I know Flurry would love to spend time with her favorite foalsitter.”
Thorax chuckled. “Alright, I’ll see if I can find some time.”
After saying goodbye to Cadence and Shining, the three changelings headed back out into the streets of the Empire. Metamorphosis was using his pegasus disguise again, but dropped it once they’d entered a private car of the train.
As they got settled, Pharynx yawned and leaned against Thorax. Thorax smiled and stroked his brother’s head, watching as he fell asleep.
“Thorax?” Metamorphosis murmured, after assuring Pharynx had fallen asleep.
“Yes dad?”
“I thought I should tell you… when we returned from Ponyville, that night, Pharynx had a nightmare once you’d left.”
“Oh… oh no, I didn’t mean to leave, I had work and I must’ve fallen asleep-”
“It’s alright.” Metamorphosis assured him. “I calmed him down. But these nightmares… they happen often, don’t they?”
Thorax sighed. “I’m not sure. Sometimes Pharynx will mention them the next morning, or he’ll sneak out of his room to come snuggle with me after he has one. But I have the feeling he gets them more often than he lets on.”
Metamorphosis frowned. “It doesn’t seem like he’s moved on from what they used to say about him.”
Thorax shook his head. “No, it doesn’t.”
“I think we need to talk to him about them.”
“I agree.” Thorax nuzzled Metamorphosis. “Thanks for telling me dad.”
“Of course Thorax.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him back. “I will always look out for my boys.”
Thorax smiled and pulled Pharynx closer, then leaned against Metamorphosis. He yawned and cuddled against his father, and Metamorphosis wrapped his hooves around Thorax. He watched over his sons as they slept, smiling.
Metamorphosis entered the cafeteria early the next morning. He smiled and looked around, searching for his sons.
“Hello Metamorphosis.” a yellow changeling said as she trotted up to him.
“Oh, hello, uh…”
“Dajia.”
“Heh, hello Dajia. Have you seen Thorax and Pharynx?”
“They’re at the ‘royal table’.” Dajia chuckled, pointing to one of the tables. “We call it that, it’s the table where they always sit.”
Metamorphosis nodded and headed towards the indicated table. He saw Thorax talking to Pharynx, who seemed very tired.
“Pharynx?” Metamorphosis sat down by Pharynx and placed a hoof on his head. “Is everything okay?”
“Y-Yeah, I’m fine, I just-” Pharynx broke off, giving a huge yawn.
“Pharynx, you’re not fine.” Thorax wrapped a hoof around him, then looked up at Metamorphosis, voice lowering into a whisper. “He came into my room last night, with Night Fury. I found him cuddled up against me this morning.”
Metamorphosis nodded, eyes soft in concern. Pharynx’s dragon plushie was obviously his comfort object. If he had needed both the plushie and his brother in order to feel safe last night, then clearly things were getting worse.
“Sh-Shuddap Thor, ‘m fine.” Pharynx mumbled, rubbing his eyes. “I just need to wake up a little, then I’ll be good to go train the soldiers.”
“Pharynx…” Thorax tried to say, but Pharynx had slipped away from them and trudged out of the cafeteria.
Metamorphosis and Thorax exchanged worried looks.
“Dad, do you think you could-”
“Of course. I’ll go watch over him, to make sure he doesn’t pass out on us. You handle your own duties.” Metamorphosis said
“Thank you dad…” Thorax nuzzled him before standing.
Metamorphosis nodded and stood, following Pharynx out. He saw Pharynx pacing around as he watched soldiers doing a drill, sparring with each other using spears.
“Pharynx.” Metamorphosis trotted up to him. “How’s the training going?”
“Good, relatively speaking.” Pharynx replied
“Why don’t you sit down?”
“No thanks.”
“Pharynx…” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “You don’t want to sit down because you know you’d fall asleep if you did.”
Pharynx scoffed. “No, I jus-” he yawned widely.
“Oh Pharynx…” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Please son, go get some rest.”
“No!” Pharynx snapped, rubbing his eyes. “I’m fine dad, just let me work…”
Metamorphosis sighed and nodded. “Alright. But I’m staying to make sure you’ll be okay.”
Pharynx rolled his eyes, continuing his pacing. Metamorphosis sat off to the side, watching the soldiers. He began to understand why Pharynx complained about them, and also noticed something. Pharynx was snapping at the changelings who were messing up.
As Pharynx trudged over during a break, he stayed standing. Metamorphosis sighed.
“Pharynx, I believe I know why the soldiers aren’t getting any better.”
“Really now? Then please, enlighten me, oh great one.” Pharynx snarked
Metamorphosis’ eyes narrowed. He didn’t like this tone. Still, he continued speaking.
“The reason they’re not getting better is because they’re too afraid of making a mistake and causing you to yell at them. Then they second guess themselves and mess up.” Metamorphosis explained.
Pharynx grew silent. Then, he spoke in a low and harsh tone.
“How would you know?”
“Excuse me?”
“You heard me, father. You never had to do any training because you were mother’s advisor. So how would you know how to train recruits?” he snarled
Metamorphosis’ eyes widened. “Pharynx, just because I was Chrysalis’ advisor doesn’t mean I don’t know a thing or two about training recruits. I even offered you my assistance when I first returned, remember?”
“Then if you did know about how to train them, then you’d know that I yell at them to motivate them. To make them try harder!” Pharynx’s voice rose.
“Pharynx you can’t expect them to read into your words when you’re screaming at them!”
“They do anyway! I yell to motivate, not to make them feel bad about themselves! How do you think I’m supposed to prove I’ve changed if I did it for any other reason?!”
“Pharynx, this isn’t about that, I’m just pointing out what you’re doing that could be viewed as intimidation! This has nothing to do with your old form!”
“Like heck it does! That’s all anyone will ever see me as! A monster!”
“Pharynx you’re not a monster!”
“Like you?” Pharynx snarled.
Metamorphosis gasped softly, then strode forwards, using his extra height to tower over Pharynx.
“That’s enough Pharynx, I’ve had enough of this attitude of yours, where is it coming from?”
“Who cares?” Pharynx grunted. “No one’s ever cared before, why should they now?”
“Pharynx, I care. And I can’t tolerate my son speaking to me this way.”
“Well too bad for you, because I’m tired of changing to match how someone else thinks I should act.”
“Pharynx-”
“No, I don’t want to hear it, father.” Pharynx stalked past him. “Practice is over! Get out of here pebble-brains!”
The soldiers, many of whom had been close enough to hear the argument between father and son, all dispersed. Metamorphosis sighed and trotted away, leaning against the wall of a hallway.
“Dad!” Thorax came trotting up. “I just saw Pharynx heading to his room, what happened?”
“We… we had a fight. I’m sure it was just his stress and exhaustion, but…” Metamorphosis sighed and shook his head. “We both said things we regret, I’m sure.”
Thorax nuzzled his father gently. “Do you want to go apologize to him?”
“Let him cool off a bit first.” Metamorphosis replied, nuzzling back. “But what are we going to do?”
Thorax sighed. “I’m not sure… I’m worried dad.”
“I know. I am too.” Metamorphosis wrapped his son in a hug. Thorax buried his head in Metamorphosis’ shoulder. “But we’ll figure something out. I know we will.”
That night, Metamorphosis found himself unable to sleep. As he was staring at the ceiling, he thought he heard hoofsteps. Metamorphosis sat up, then…
Crash!
“Hivemother damnit!” a familiar voice hissed
Metamorphosis stood and went to the door. He opened it to find Pharynx sprawled on the floor, seeming to have tripped over a vine that was growing in the hallways.
“Stupid, dumb gardening idea.” Pharynx spat, struggling to stand.
Metamorphosis stepped out of his room and moved swiftly over to Pharynx. He reached out and pulled his son up. Pharynx yawned and blinked, eyes drooping and clearly tired as he tried to focus on who was helping him.
“Huh…? D-Dad?”
“Yes Pharynx, it’s me.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “What are you doing out here?”
“I…” Pharynx wrapped his hooves around Metamorphosis as he struggled to stay upright. “I was trying to get to Thorax’s room…”
Metamorphosis smiled softly and hefted Pharynx up. “Well, let’s get you there then.”
“Mhm… where’s Night Fury?”
Metamorphosis looked around and spotted the dragon plushie near where Pharynx had tripped. He lifted it up with his magic and gave it to Pharynx, nuzzling him gently.
“Come along my son.”
As Metamorphosis helped Pharynx walk, Pharynx yawned and leaned against him.
“Dad?”
“Yes son?”
“I…I didn’t mean what I said…”
“I know you didn’t Pharynx.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him.
“I’m just… ‘m scared of being seen as a monster… of them shunning me and… I’m tired of changing. I just want to be me…”
“It’s okay Pharynx. You can be yourself, they will not shun you or see you as a monster. That will never happen, not while I’m here.”
“R-Really dad?”
“Really.”
Metamorphosis then pushed open the door to Thorax’s room. Pharynx saw this and slipped away from Metamorphosis, staggering over to Thorax’s bed. He clambered in beside his brother and snuggled against him.
“Mm… whazzat?” Thorax opened his eyes, then looked down to see Pharynx cuddled against him. “Pharynx…?”
“B-Bro…” Pharynx whisphered, pressing against the alpha changeling.
Metamorphosis moved closer and leaned down to nuzzle Pharynx. Pharynx sniffled, tearing up. He then began crying into Thorax's shoulder. Thorax locked eyes with Metamorphosis, then shifted and backed up, giving him room to lie down. He joined them and moved closer to Pharynx.
Thorax held Pharynx as the beta changeling slowly began to calm down. He closed his eyes and nestled closer.
“Shh… sleep Pharynx, it’s okay. I’m here, everyone is safe. Sleep.” Thorax soothed, rubbing his brother’s back.
Pharynx let out one last sob before rubbing his eyes.
“I… I’m sorry…”
“There’s nothing to be sorry for.” Thorax soothed. “Just sleep, cuddlebug.”
Pharynx yawned and looked up at Metamorphosis. “Dad…”
“I’m staying right here. Don’t worry.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him.
Pharynx smiled slightly, hugging Night Fury. He closed his eyes and nestled into the bed. Thorax pulled the covers over them, and Pharynx soon fell asleep. Metamorphosis smiled, looking at Thorax.
“It’s dealt with for now…” Metamorphosis murmured
“But not forever.” Thorax sighed. He nuzzled his brother. “I wish he didn’t have to be afraid…”
“As do I. But all we can do for now is be there for him.” Metamorphosis replied.
Thorax nodded, then yawned. He wrapped his hooves securely around Pharynx and closed his eyes. Metamorphosis closed his eyes as well, and soon, all three were asleep.
The meeting for all the world leaders was to be held in Canterlot. Everyone invited had agreed to attend, and Princess Celestia was determined, with the aid of Twilight Sparkle, to make everything turn out well for everyone.
“Everyone” of course, included Metamorphosis’ sons. He, Thorax, and Pharynx were on their way, having made a quick stop in Ponyville to pick up Ocellus. She, along with her friends, had also been invited as ambassadors. The leaders had agreed on their being invited because they were the only ones of their kind to live in Equestria to strengthen diplomatic ties.
Ocellus had been the last of her friends to be picked up. Pharynx had caused them some delay with a slight argument with Thorax on whether or not to bring soldiers. The argument, unsurprisingly, had ended with a result of ‘no’.
But now, everything was calm. As they walked, Metamorphosis could see the eagerness in both Thorax and Ocellus’ eyes. Ocellus had brought a saddlebag stuffed with books, historical and fantasy alike, it seemed. Meanwhile, Thorax was simply brimming with enthusiasm, as well as a hope for things to be alright. This was the changeling kind’s first meeting of this sort, after all. Pharynx was less enthused with the meetings to be taking place, more focused on the number of guards that would be in the castle at the time.
“Just look at them, they have to have about two hundred extra guards for a meeting that would only require about half as much. Typical incompetent Equestrian military…” Pharynx grumbled
“Now Pharynx, try to be nice.” Metamorphosis said.
Metamorphosis had taken the pegasus form again as they headed up to the castle. He would untransform when they entered the room where the meeting was taking place. He trotted calmly beside Pharynx, this time having transformed to have some armor on, so it would not appear strange for a pony to walk beside three changelings. He would appear to be an escort.
Pharynx huffed. “I’m just saying. If someling hadn’t insisted, we’d be walking in with our own guards. Incompetent they may be, but you’d be hard put to call them worse than the Equestrian military.”
Metamorphosis shot him a warning glare, then looked to the side at Thorax and Ocellus. The two were chattering eagerly, Ocellus levitating books from her bag. She appeared to be showing Thorax notes and bits of useful information. Thorax was nodding eagerly, clearly invested in learning helpful things.
“I have to say Thorax.” Metamorphosis spoke, getting the two’s attention. “You really couldn’t have chosen a better advisor.”
Thorax chuckled while Ocellus blushed. He placed a hoof around Ocellus.
“I know dad. And believe me, I couldn’t be prouder of her.”
Ocellus giggled, blushing. “Th-Thank you Thorax…”
“Of course Ocellus.” Thorax smiled at her, then glanced back up. “So, dad.”
“Yes?”
“I was thinking that maybe you could help provide some insight on more of the changeling’s history? As mother’s, well, mate, she must have told you about our history.”
“Indeed she has.” Metamorphosis nodded. “I would be happy to help in any way I can.”
Thorax smiled. “Thank you dad.”
“Of course.”
Metamorphosis quickly changed shape into what appeared to be a changeling guard as they approached the castle. He did so in order to not arouse suspicion among the guard, but it also seemed to please Pharynx. The four changelings were then led to what would be their room for the stay in Canterlot. It contained two connected rooms, one for Ocellus and Metamorphosis, the other for Thorax and Pharynx.
As Metamorphosis and Thorax set about unpacking, Pharynx laid down for a quick nap and Ocellus read some of her books. Thorax watched them for a moment, then looked up at the clock. His eyes widened.
“Oh no, that delay must’ve taken longer than I thought, the meeting’s going to start soon!”
Metamorphosis, who had transformed back to his normal form by now, approached his son. Thorax was panicking, breathing quickly. Metamorphosis placed a hoof on his back.
“It’s alright Thorax, deep breaths.” Metamorphosis soothed. “How about I wake up Pharynx, since we know that will likely take a while, and you and Ocellus can head to the meeting?”
“I-I…” Thorax took a few deep breaths. “Okay. Thanks dad. Come on Ocellus.”
Ocellus tucked her books away and grabbed the saddlebags, slipping them on. She waited at the door for Thorax to compose himself, then they left the room. Metamorphosis smiled, glad the situation was handled, then turned to his other son, who was curled like a cat on the bed.
“Pharynx…” Metamorphosis called softly. Pharynx’s ear twitched. “Pharynx, you have to get up.”
“Sh-Shuddap… sleeping…”
Metamorphosis sighed. “I know you had a rough night, and you need rest, but you have to get up now.”
“Don’ wanna…”
“I know, but you have to.”
“Mmngh…”
Metamorphosis got closer and rubbed his son’s back. Pharynx groaned and opened one eye, glancing up at the older changeling.
“Dad…”
“Come on Pharynx, we need to catch up with Thorax and Ocellus.”
“Fine…” Pharynx sighed, heaving himself up begrudingly. “But only because Thorax needs his protector.”
Metamorphosis chuckled. He knew of the role Pharynx had assigned himself to; protector of the King. Naturally, Thorax would need a protector, having not been the best at self defense. Ocellus was much in the same situation, so he understood why Pharynx was now suddenly willing to get up.
“Alright, let’s go then.” Metamorphosis said as Pharynx got up. Metamorphosis waited by the door for Pharynx, who grabbed a crossbow he’d managed to convince Thorax to let him bring.
“Alright, I'm ready.” Pharynx sighed, heading to the door. Metamorphosis followed, taking his changeling guard form again while trying to think of a good topic of conversation to distract Pharynx with.
Meanwhile, Thorax and Ocellus hurried down the hallway. Thorax sighed with relief as they reached the meeting room. He nodded to the guards as he entered.
“Sorry we’re late, everycreature.” Thorax apologized as they walked in, the guards following them in and shutting the doors, standing on either side of the large doors.
“It’s perfectly alright King Thorax, you haven’t missed much.” Princess Celestia said, smiling.
The princesses of Equestria sat together, Celestia and Luna in the middle, flanked by Cadence and Twilight. To their left was Sandbar, he was invited due to being a hero of Equestria like his friends. Beside Sandbar was Gallus, he was next to the Griffonstone representative, Gruff. On the other side of Gruff was Yona and Prince Rutherford of the yaks. Queen Novo and her niece Silverstream sat on Cadence’s right. Finally, there was Smolder and Dragon Lordess Ember, sitting between the yaks and an empty space clearly meant for the changelings.
Thorax smiled as he and Ocellus took their places. “Still, I’d like to apologize. My brother will be here shortly.”
Princess Celestia nodded. “Very well. While we wait I suppose we can fill you in. We’ve been discussing possible trade alliances between the dragons and the yaks-”
Just as the princess was about to speak, they heard voices from outside the room.
“The point is that the guard could do with some extra motivation, I seriously have to stop some of them from skewering themselves with their own spears practically every training session.” Pharynx’s voice was recognizable instantly.
“And I do understand that Pharynx, however, it can sometimes be hard for someone to understand motivation if you’re shouting all the time.” another voice, recognizable only to a few in the room, responded.
The door to the meeting room opened, and the two creatures entered. Pharynx was talking to a creature most of them didn’t recognize. An unreformed changeling standing tall as Thorax, with a long and twisted horn, bearing a red mane and violet carapace, as well as cat-like, purple eyes that faded to blue.
Metamorphosis hadn’t realized they’d entered the meeting room. He also didn’t realize his disguise had dropped some time during his conversation with Pharynx. As Pharynx and Metamorphosis looked up, they saw the other leaders staring at them.
“Prince-General Pharynx, who is this?” a hippogriff Metamorphosis assumed was Queen Novo asked Pharynx sharply. His sons had briefed him on the other leaders and what they looked like.
Thorax stood and headed towards his brother and father. Metamorphosis opened his mouth to apologize to Thorax, but his son gave a quick dismissing shake of his head.
“Everycreature… this is Metamorphosis.” Thorax took a breath. “Our father.”
The creatures in the room all stared. Most of them, anyway. Metamorphosis noticed Ember, Princess Cadence, and Twilight all looking unsurprised to see him. Eventually, the alicorn he knew must be Princess Celestia spoke up.
“I was unaware you two had a father.”
Thorax nodded. “We didn’t know about him ourselves for a while. Pharynx and I managed to find proof that he was alive, and he’d left the hive shortly before we were born. We brought him back home. I figured that since we were all meeting here today, it would be a good time to introduce him to you all.”
Princess Celestia nodded in understanding. “I can see your reasoning. However, would you care to explain why he isn’t…?”
“Father is unable to transform like the rest of us, it seems to be a birth defect.” Pharynx replied
The room was silent as everyone processed this information. Then, Yona leaned over and whispered something to Prince Rutherford, who gave a light stomp on the floor, and spoke.
“Yaks no see twisted changeling, see only new ally. Yak trust royal brothers, yak trust brother’s father. Offer hoof in friendship.” Prince Rutherford declared
“I agree.” Princess Cadence spoke, making the attention turn to her. “Thorax and Pharynx introduced myself and Shining to Metamorphosis last week. He is a wonderful changeling, very kind and true, in spite of not being able to transform. He even offered to try and repay us both for the shelter we offered to his son while Thorax was in exile. I would place my trust in him.”
“We’ve met before too.” Ember spoke, leaning back in her chair leisurely. “He’s a pretty nice guy, and trust me, he acts exactly like Thorax.”
Thorax blushed a little at this. Twilight raised her hoof for their attention, giggling softly.
“He also went with Thorax and Pharynx to Ponyville not too long ago. They were introducing him to Ocellus. I got to know him a little, as did Starlight and Spike. While Ember is correct and he does match Thorax’s personality to a tee, it must be noted that a bit of Pharynx’s is also there. He was able to intimidate Starlight-for good reason, I assure you. Despite that, he is a very nice changeling.”
“Well, with those kind words, I see no reason to hold anything against you merely for your looks.” Princess Celestia said, smiling. “As Rutherford so wisely said, we will look past your outward appearance, Metamorphosis, and instead see your true self.”
Metamorphosis blinked. “Th-Thank you, your highness.” he said softly
“If Celestia has placed her trust in you, I see no reason not to do the same.” Queen Novo smiled at him.
“Yay!” the hippogriff Metamorphosis recognized as Silverstream suddenly cheered, pumping her forelegs in victory.
They all turned to Gruff, who hadn’t said a word. He scoffed and waved his cane.
“Bah! If the rest of you want to put your trust in a former servant to Chrysalis be my guest! I won’t be having any of it though, you can guarantee!” Gruff proclaimed.
Metamorphosis’ heart sunk. He lowered his head and instinctively began scuffing his hoof on the floor as though he were a nymph. He saw Thorax move closer to him and Pharynx step forward. Just as Pharynx was about to open his mouth to defend his father, someone spoke.
“I offer friendship.”
They all looked over. The blue and yellow griffon, Gallus, if Metamorphosis remembered correctly, was leaning forward on the table. He was holding out his claw towards them, giving a slight smirk. Gruff, however, bashed him on the head with his cane. As Gallus yelped and rubbed his head, Gruff jabbed the cane in his chest.
“Boy! You’ll learn to keep your mouth shut when the adults are speaking, understood?”
“Oh whatever, you’re not even my legal guardian.” Gallus snapped “Besides, if you’re gonna keep your head firmly stuck up your flank, then it’s up to me to handle this stuff.”
Gruff scoffed again. “Fine! Bring Griffonstone to ruin! See if I care!” he then stalked out of the room.
Metamorphosis looked to Gallus. “I’m sorry if-”
“Don’t be.” Gallus waved him off. “Gruff’s a pain in the flank every other day of the week. He doesn’t even want the ambassador position, he just took it because no one else wanted to do it either. Suits me just fine though. I’d be happy to extend Griffonstone’s claw, or whatever it is we’re supposed to do to form allies.”
Metamorphosis smiled softly and nodded. This griffon was smart, and while he clearly would need some lessons in diplomacy, he would make a fine ambassador. Princess Celestia cleared her throat.
“Thank you Gallus, you have shown great respect and humility. We will search for another, adult, ambassador for Griffonstone in the future. But for now we are glad to have you. Now, let us begin.”
Princess Celestia began the meeting, and as she spoke, Metamorphosis noticed something. The ruler’s students had begun giving each other looks. It was as if they were having their own conversation with their eyes.
Ocellus, who was taking notes, only occasionally glanced up, but even then seemed to be able to add her own piece to the student’s mental conversation. Gallus was listening mostly to Princess Celestia, as the sole ambassador of Griffonstone now, but he did sneak occasional glances at the others.
“Metamorphosis.” Celestia spoke, drawing his attention.
“Y-Yes, Princess?”
Celestia laid her hooves on the table. “I assume you are aware that Chrysalis is still in hiding, but free?”
“Thorax and Pharynx informed me of this, yes.” Metamorphosis looked down. “I… had hoped she had changed, like the others.”
“Bringing us to the reason I say this.” Celestia said. “I assume you know the old saying; ‘Know thine enemy’?”
Metamorphosis nodded, understanding. Celestia pressed on.
“In order to properly defend ourselves against Chrysalis, we need to know her history.”
Metamorphosis sighed. “I do know the story of Chrysalis’ past. It is not a good tale.”
Celestia nodded. “Whether or not it is grim is not as important as knowing her story.”
Metamorphosis sighed, and nodded. Thorax and Pharynx leaned in to hear, Ocellus pressing against Thorax for comfort. The other leaders and students also leaned closer. Metamorphosis took a deep breath, closed his violet-blue eyes, and prepared his heart to tell a storm of a story.
“When I was Chrysalis' advisor, and we were newly in love… she took me aside to her chambers.” Metamorphosis began
“Is that when…” Cadence nodded to Thorax and Pharynx. The brothers and their father all blushed.
“N-No, that came much later.” Metamorphosis responded hurriedly.
“Heh, apologies. Please, continue.” Cadence said, wisely choosing to ignore the giggling from the kids.
Metamorphosis continued. “Chrysalis brought me there to tell me about her past. I listened to every word, similar to how you are now. The tale she spoke was burned into my memories, it’s no easy one to tell.”
Celestia nodded in encouragement. Metamorphosis sighed.
“The story begins in a kingdom far away from ours, in a place known as Honeydew Meadow. But you all know it as the Badlands now.”
“The Badlands? Where the Hive is?” Ocellus whispered. Metamorphosis gave a nod of aknowledgment.
“Yes Ocellus, the very same. The Badlands were not always called by that name, nor were they the barren, empty plains they became. They were lush, green meadows, and the Honeydew Meadow specifically was populated by a strange breed of ponies. These ponies all had insect like wings, with bright colored chitin and carapace instead of fur-”
“You mean… changelings?!” Twilight exclaimed, and in an instant a roll of parchment and quill had appeared. “Oh, where’s Spike when I need him…”
“Yes Twilight, changelings, in a sense.” Metamorphosis sighed. “That’s not what they were called, though. They were known as Faelings.”
“Fascinating… go on…” Twilight urged
“The Faelings populated the Honeydew Meadows. The rest of today’s Badlands were known collectively as… well, I’m sure two of you know it quite well.” Metamorphosis looked up, locking eyes with Celestia and Luna.
“Alicornia.” Celestia breathed
“Home…” Luna murmured. Twilight gasped and her frantic scribbling resumed. Metamorphosis went on.
“The land of Alicornia included the Honeydew Meadows, as well as other kingdoms, some populated by other pony tribes, but most commonly, natural-born alicorns. And in Alicornia, was one kingdom that ruled them all. The Kingdom of Day and Night.”
At this, everyone looked at the royal sisters. Celestia shook her head slightly, and their attention went back to Metamorphosis.
“This kingdom was governed by two reigning alicorns. A married couple, Rising Dawn, Queen of the Skies, and Nightshade, King of the Cosmos.” Metamorphosis explained, surprising some of the group. “You see, this story may be about Chrysalis, but this information will be necessary.”
“So… what happened to these ‘Honeydew Meadows’ for them to end up like… that?” Smolder asked, pointing a claw at a map on the wall, which included the Badlands.
“That is also tied to Chrysalis. For the fall of the Honeydew Meadows… was also her own downfall.” Metamorphosis said. “You see, in the Honeydew Meadows, the Faelings lived peacefully. They were under the care of a kind and generous matriarch ruler.”
“Who? Like, Chrysalis’ sister or som-” Gallus was cut off.
“Queen Chrysalis.”
“What?!” Twilight nearly fell out of her chair. “Chrysalis?! Kind and generous?! I mean, no offense, Metamorphosis, you probably saw her as more than a villain, but-”
“It’s quite alright. As in love with her as I was at the time, I was aware that she was hardly a ruler to be described with those attributes. But yes, the ruler of the Faelings was the very same Chrysalis as the one you know. And this is the story of her downfall.”
“Proceed.” Queen Novo spoke. Metamorphosis obliged.
“Chrysalis lived in a castle that resembled honeycomb. She also did not look like she does now. She described her appearance to me; an alicorn with a mottled gray and white coat, modest soft green and teal eyes, and a mane that flowed and dripped like ever-moving honey. She was, in every sense of the word, gorgeous. All who saw her were instantly in awe of her beauty. However, every rose has its thorns.”
“Huh?” Gallus asked, and Sandbar laid a hoof on his claw.
“It’s a metaphor, Gal. He’s saying that even though she was beautiful, she had bad parts to her personality.”
“Oh.”
“Indeed.” Metamorphosis nodded. “You see, Chrysalis was not just beautiful, she was intelligent. And a master at potion brewing. She would use this knowledge to keep herself beautiful, but also to create one of the most powerful elixirs. One she used many times on visiting nobles.”
“Which was…?” Cadence prompted.
“...Chrysalis created False Love.” Metamorphosis paused to observe the widening eyes, the small gasp from Thorax and nearly inaudible swear from Pharynx. “And by spiking a visitor’s drink with it, and her own with a diluted version, Chrysalis would pull secrets from even the most tight-lipped of nobles.”
“And when she removed the effects…?” Twilight asked
“The nobles would remember nothing. This is the important part of the story. In a nearby city-state, there was a Prince, a unicorn whose name Chrysalis refused to speak. He was infatuated with Chrysalis, and yearned for her to invite him to her palace. Unfortunately for him, his ‘kingdom’ was too small to be of much interest to her. So he tried another way. Sneaking in.”
“And that went badly, I assume?” Pharynx asked
“Not just yet, my son.” Metamorphosis said “You see, he was able to enter the kingdom without trouble, as the Faelings were very kind and gentle, not unlike the reformed changelings today. This allowed the unicorn prince to reach the castle. Once there, he found that a new noble was waiting for an audience with Chrysalis. He also saw that there was a side door that was for the servants. He entered through this door, and found himself in the kitchens.”
“Ah, so he used this to his advantage.” Pharynx said
“Precisely. He donned a chef’s uniform and used this to sneak out to the dining room. From there, he witnessed it all. Chrysalis spiking the drinks with something, her and the noble being instantly attracted to each other, exchanging sweet words between the noble giving her diplomatic secrets. And he held on to this knowledge.”
“So what happened then?” Ocellus asked softly
“He stayed behind after the noble had left, and Chrysalis had ordered all the servants out. It was then that he discovered the entrance to her potions room, through a trapdoor under the table. He saw her enter, then leave a few moments later. Chrysalis explained to me that she had been preparing the next batch of False Love. The unicorn waited until she had gone, then ducked into the room before it was sealed again. Within there, he, a novice at such things, attempted to make the False Love.”
“Oh no!” Silverstream exclaimed
“Oh no is correct. He incorrectly brewed the potion, adding extra ingredients to make it look like normal orange juice. Worse of all, the next day, he managed to bring Chrysalis a full glass of it, himself with only a small dose. Chrysalis did not suspect a thing… until she had already drank the potion.”
“This seems familiar…” Twilight murmured to herself, as Metamorphosis continued, aware of his son’s intent gazes.
“Chrysalis was unable to reverse the potion before it took effect, and as the unicorn prince had taken some as well, soon enough, they were lost in each other’s eyes. At the worst timing possible. For Queen Rising Dawn had just arrived, with an urgent message for Chrysalis.”
“What message?” Thorax asked
“You’ll see.” Metamorphosis paused, unsure just how much he should reveal. “Rising Dawn was forced to wait, as the prince tried to convince Chrysalis they should attend to her. His potion was diluted, giving him a bit more of a clearer head. But Chrysalis believed he was trying to leave her, and downed many of her potions in an attempt to ‘look more beautiful’ for him. He got her to stop, but her coat was looking duller and her mane now showed some teal, limp hairs.”
“Like her form now.” Ember realized
“Yes. The prince and Chrysalis made their way to Rising Dawn. She had brought with her some foals, who she was looking after. She tried to explain to Chrysalis that there was an invading army on the way, of beings who called themselves Chaos Bringers. Dragon-like beasts that sought to transform Alicornia into what they willed. Chrysalis dismissed Rising Dawn with anger, claiming that she was disturbing her time with her prince. Rising Dawn was forced to leave, taking the two foals with her and warning Chrysalis one last time. Again, Chrysalis ignored her.”
“Chaos Bringers... like Discord?” Sandbar asked
“Somewhat. Chrysalis told me that Discord does in fact belong to the race of the Chaos Bringers. He's actually much younger than her, however, and was most likely not a part of the invasion. But what his kind did is why she never had much trust in him.” Metamorphosis explained
“This can’t be good.” Thorax mumbled, and Metamorphosis shook his head.
“It wasn’t. The prince and Chrysalis stayed with each other, then, the invasion started. The Chaos Bringers swept through the land, and the unicorn prince could hear screams of terror from the Faelings below. He again stood, and Chrysalis again grew upset. She screamed that he didn’t love her, and inhaled more potions, trying to make herself beautiful. Her luscious coat fell off, her feathers dropped from her wings, her mane became limp and teal. Holes emerged in her now black and skeletal hooves, her wings were curled and blue, also hole ridden.”
“She transformed into what she is now.” Twilight realized
“Yes. The prince ran, terrified of what she had become. Chrysalis was left alone in the palace, still under the effects of the potion and unable to help her subjects. Eventually, the potion wore off. But still, she stayed in the palace, afraid to go outside and see what had become of her kingdom.”
“I know now.” Twilight closed her eyes. “A love potion that led to the downfall of a kingdom… it’s the story that they say started Hearts and Hooves Day.”
“Perhaps that is so.” Metamorphosis nodded. “After all, the prince did escape the Meadows. It is possible he spread this to the survivors, and when Equestria learned of it, it became Hearts and Hooves Day.”
“Yes… sorry, please go on.” Twilight said
“Well… soon enough, she was found. Not by a subject, but a Chaos Bringer. The beast was draconic in appearance, and upon discovering her, commented on how far she’d fallen. He then decided, rather than killing her, to help her, in a way.”
“What changeling mean by that?” Rutherford asked.
“The Chaos Bringer used his magic to grant her power. The power to find food in emotion, and in order to gather said food, the ability to shift and morph, to adapt to new environments and change at will. With a few waves of his claws, the Faelings outside were changed too. Most of the survivors, particularly her servants that were still alive, matched Chrysalis in appearance. Others were shrunken down and given fragile wings, their punishment being the need to rely on others to aid them as they moved.”
“Breezies.” Twilight said “You mean that Breezies are related to changelings… astonishing.”
“Then what?” Cadence asked, and Metamorphosis frowned.
“I’m afraid that is the end. The Chaos Bringer left, and Chrysalis could do nothing but look around at her remaining subjects, and gather them all to her. Those who were now tiny, she sent on their way, the insanity and cruelness she had displayed while under the love potion always having been within her. She called those that looked like her by the dragon-like creature’s name for them. No longer the Faelings, but the Changelings.
"Chrysalis took them into the remnants of her once beautiful palace, the honeycomb having been burnt and scorched by the war, turning into a rocky, blackened surface, with many holes that were now moving thanks to the Chaos Bringer’s magic. Here, Chrysalis stayed with her remaining subjects, intent on rebuilding what she had lost.”
The room sat in silence for a moment, as they processed all this new information. Finally, Celestia spoke.
“Thank you Metamorphosis. This was obviously not easy to tell, and I commend your resolve. I believe this meeting should be over for the day. We will continue tomorrow.”
As the leaders all nodded in understanding and stood to leave, Metamorphosis noticed Princess Luna was making her way out. He glanced at Thorax, and saw him busy exchanging words with Ember, while Pharynx spoke to Ocellus. They would not notice his absence. So, he quietly stole after Luna.
“Metamorphosis? What has brought you to follow me?” Princess Luna asked quizzically.
Metamorphosis took a breath. “You are the Princess of the Night and Mistress of Dreams, correct?”
“Indeed, though few call me the latter. Why is it you ask?”
“I-It’s about my son.” Metamorphosis said. “Pharynx.” he clarified as Luna gave him a confused look.
“Oh? Pharynx, your son who is the General of the Hive, correct? What could I have to do with him?”
“He’s been having nightmares. Thorax tells me it’s been happening for a while, though he strongly suspects Pharynx has them more often than he lets on. I realize it may be an odd request, but if there were any way you could-”
“What are the dreams of?” Luna interrupted. She did not seem upset, so Metamorphosis figured she was simply wishing to know immediately.
“Pharynx tells us they change, but mostly stick to an overarching theme, in that they all insist he is evil and a monster.”
Luna nodded. “I believe I have some understanding of those sorts of things. Tell me, how badly are they disrupting his day-to-day life?”
“Very, I’m afraid. He is frequently tired in the morning, and unwilling to get up as early as he usually does for training. In fact, it relates to the reason we arrived after Thorax and Ocellus today. He didn’t sleep well last night, and while he didn’t tell Thorax or myself, I suspect it was because of the nightmare. I had to send Thorax and Ocellus ahead so they wouldn’t be late. After they left, I needed to rouse him from a nap he attempted to take when we arrived in our room.”
“I see.” Luna nodded. “This is important, then. Anything else I should know?”
“Just one thing.” Metamorphosis then looked away, staring at a wall. “However, I must implore you not to speak a word of what I am about to tell you to anyone else. It is a private matter between our family.”
“Of course.” Luna’s gaze softened. “Whatever you say I will not repeat.”
Metamorphosis lowered his voice. He hated to break his silent promise not to tell anyone, but it was necessary.
“Pharynx has a special plushie he says was given to him by Ocellus during a celebration known as Hearth’s Warming. It appears to be his comfort object, as I have seen him holding it after nightmares. I have also seen him seek his brother out when the nightmares become unbearable, sometimes bringing along the comfort plushie. I join them if I happen to be awake, and Thorax and I sit with him until he calms down. Then we let him cuddle against us. He only sleeps peacefully if one or both of us is with him, or perhaps when he has the plushie.”
Luna nodded. “Bringing a comfort object to an already assured safe space, that is not a good sign.”
“I figured as much. I thought perhaps it meant the nightmares were too bad.”
“It does indeed.” Luna sighed. “I have never tried to enter the minds of those outside Equestria, it is a bit… shall we say, outside my jurisdiction. However, I believe I know what Pharynx may be going through, and I know that if allowed to continue, this could severely damage his psyche.”
Metamorphosis’ eyes widened in concern. “So you mean to say…?”
“If this is allowed to continue, it could affect him so much that he changes emotionally. Becomes afraid of social interaction due to fear of being outcasted. Becomes depressed and develops anxiety in fear of making a mistake that will potentially give others a reason to call him a monster. Pharynx may even lose part of his personality. The cynical part that I have heard Thorax remark on with such fondness and the protector trait that helps him defend the Hive.”
“N-No…”
“I’m afraid if things are not stopped, it is a possibility.” Luna told him gravely.
“A-Anything else?”
“I’m afraid no one can predict all the possible outcomes. But Pharynx could also become so afraid of doing anything that he gives up. In any case, yourself and Thorax would be the only tethers he has to this world.”
“You don’t mean he’d… no! I won’t let that happen, I can’t!” Metamorphosis exclaimed
“I know. Which is why I will help your son.” Luna concluded. “I will venture into Pharynx’s dreams tonight, and we shall see if he has the nightmare again. If he does, I will do what I can to help him.”
“He brought the plushie with us.” Metamorphosis murmured, voice lowering. “I believe he is expecting it to happen again.”
“Then perhaps he has worked out some pattern for them you have not. Or else it was a precaution. Regardless, as he is in the castle it shouldn’t be hard to enter his dreams.”
“Alright…” Metamorphosis bowed. “Thank you, Princess, for agreeing to help.”
“It is nothing, good changeling.” Luna beckoned for him to rise. “I help all who need it within their dreams, and it fills me with great pride and elation when I am successful. I hope to be this time.”
Metamorphosis nodded. “I cannot thank you enough for it.”
“There is no need, and I would prefer you not thank me yet. I will do my best to aid your son, but often, nightmares can only end once the dreamer feels they are no longer shrouded in the misery that caused it.”
Metamorphosis nodded in understanding. “I still thank you.”
“Of course. Now, I believe you should head back to your sons before they question where you’ve gone. And I must return to my chambers, I have been awake far later in the day than I am used to because of this meeting. If I am to help your son, I must be well rested.”
“Alright.” Metamorphosis smiled at her before turning to leave.
Luna smiled as he headed back, then turned to head down the hallway to her own chambers. She had some much needed rest to get to.
Metamorphosis sighed as he laid in bed. He looked over to see Ocellus had fallen asleep while reading. He smiled fondly and levitated the book away, marking her page and pulling the covers over her.
It had been a long day. Thorax had gone off with Ember on a date, and Metamorphosis had seen him off. He’d spent the rest of the day bonding with Ocellus and giving Pharynx as much attention as he desired. With Pharynx, he hadn’t wanted much attention, but Metamorphosis could tell he was grateful. Thorax had come back in the evening, after saying goodnight to Ember from the doorway. Metamorphosis had joined Pharynx in teasing Thorax lightly.
The most important memory drifted back to the forefront of his mind. When they were heading to bed.
“Thorax, be sure to get me if he starts having a nightmare. I’ll be up for a while.”
“Okay dad. You said you convinced Luna to look into them?”
“Yes, though she seemed uncertain about the potential of success.”
Thorax nodded. “Luna seems cryptic at times but I’ve gotten to know her, the crypticness is typically because she really doesn’t have a straight answer.”
“Either way, wake me if anything happens. I’ll do the same for you.”
“Okay dad… you know… I’m really glad you’re here. I don’t know how I’d be able to handle this without you… Tempest isn’t always available…” Thorax hugged him
“I know. But you don’t have to worry about that. I’m here now, and you don’t have to go through this with him alone.”
“You’re right. Thank you dad. I love you.”
“I love you too son.”
Metamorphosis smiled at the recent memory. He too, wondered what might have happened with his sons if he were not there. Then, he heard frantic whimpers from the other room, driving him from his thoughts.
“Pharynx.” Metamorphosis whispered, sitting up and rushing to the room, which was connected to his and Ocellus’ room via a bathroom.
Pharynx was moaning and thrashing in his bed. He was mumbling incoherently, and the dragon plushie lay off to the side. Metamorphosis levitated a pillow hastily in his magic and tossed it at Thorax to wake him.
“Oof! D-Dad!”
“Thorax, get up.” Metamorphosis urged, sitting by Pharynx and pulling his flailing son into his hooves. “Shh, shh, Pharynx, it’s okay.”
Thorax scrambled up and was at Metamorphosis’ side in an instant. He rubbed Pharynx’s back while Metamorphosis held him. Pharynx had stopped thrashing around and was growing still. His breathing became heavy and fast.
“Pharynx, Pharynx please wake up.” Metamorphosis urged
Pharynx convulsed, then his eyes shot open. He was sweating and trembling, which Metamorphosis hadn’t noticed before. He embraced Pharynx as his eldest son began crying.
Thorax grabbed Night Fury and passed him to Pharynx. Pharynx clutched him unashamedly and nuzzled against Metamorphosis.
“Pharynx… was it bad?”
“W-Worse…” Pharynx murmured
“He is correct, I’m afraid.”
Metamorphosis looked up. A glowing blue light descended from the ceiling. When it faded, it revealed Princess Luna. Thorax got up to give her a polite bow. Luna nodded to him, then went towards Pharynx and Metamorphosis. Pharynx glanced up and his eyes narrowed slightly in distrust, pressing closer against Metamorphosis.
“Princess…” Metamorphosis nodded to Pharynx. Luna lit up her horn in a blue glow, then lowered it to Pharynx’s forehead.
“Hey! What are you-” Pharynx broke off as Luna removed her horn. He suddenly yawned and cuddled against Metamorphosis.
Luna stepped back and watched as Pharynx closed his eyes. He lost his tight grip on Night Fury and instead seemed to be resting peacefully by his father. Luna sighed.
“Apologies. I could see that he was too panicked to be of much immediate help. I have merely sent him into a dreamless sleep. He’ll be calm the rest of the night.”
Thorax nodded. “S-So what happened?”
“I was ejected from the dream when he jumped awake, but from what I could gather it was as your father said. Pharynx, unreformed and surrounded by creatures who keep claiming he is a monster. Chrysalis appeared, were you aware that she did?”
“He mentioned to me that she appeared, yes.” Metamorphosis nuzzled his son gently.
Luna stepped closer. “There was something else. His dreams, they were influenced by something. A darkness I have not seen anything similar to in dreams since the Tantibus.”
“Wait, ‘Tantibus’?” Thorax asked
“A monster that I created. You both surely know of my former alter ego… Nightmare Moon. I made the Tantibus as a punishment for myself, to give me nightmares. It is similar to the darkness lurking within your son, but this darkness is different.” Luna placed a hoof on the bed.
“Different how?” Metamorphosis asked
“It was… sentient. I could hear it whispering to him. I don’t believe it knew I was there. It was hard to make out the voice, however, it seemed familiar.” Luna hesitated. “Tell me, is there anything that you know of that would cause this?”
Metamorphosis looked at Thorax. His son shook his head and laid beside Pharynx, nuzzling him. Then, Thorax spoke in a low whisper.
“I’m afraid I don’t.” Thorax admitted.
The idea of someone influencing his son angered Metamorphosis. However, he took a breath and managed to clear his mind enough to think. Then, he remembered something.
“I… believe I know.” Metamorphosis looked down at his son.
“Dad…?”
“While the Hive is not a hivemind, and can’t hear each other’s thoughts, there is a certain spell that enables a mindlink between two changelings. It was meant for if a specific changeling required instructions from a superior. But… the mindlink spell can only be cast by those of the royal family.”
“The royal family?” Thorax asked “But… if you and I definitely aren’t doing it… and the only other members of the royal family are-” he gasped
Metamorphosis nodded. “There’s a possibility… it’s Chrysalis.”
Luna’s eyes went wide. “That explains why the voice was familiar.”
“D-Dad, what do we do?” Thorax asked worriedly.
“I don’t know… Princess?”
Luna calmed herself. “Well… for now, I don’t believe there is anything to be done. However, when you return to your home, I would implore you to try to seek out Chrysalis. She must likely be nearby for this spell to work. Possibly, the reason it is worse now could be that Chrysalis has needed to pour more energy into the spell to strengthen it so she needn’t follow you here.”
“Understood.” Metamorphosis said, recalling the spell did indeed have to be stronger to work from far away.
Despite the idea of meeting Chrysalis again, Metamorphosis knew this had to be done. He still loved her, but he also knew what Thorax and Pharynx had told him was true. And she was the cause of her own son’s nightmares.
“Here.” Luna smiled softly. She made a cluster of purple blossoms appear. “Lavender. I line the hallways and my sister and I’s room with them, they are known for helping creatures to achieve peaceful and restorative sleep.”
With that, she set the flowers by Pharynx’s bed. Metamorphosis laid his son down and pulled the covers over him. Thorax wrapped a hoof over Pharynx’s shoulders and settled beside him.
“Thank you Princess Luna. We will hunt down Chrysalis once we return home.” Metamorphosis assured her.
“I wish you luck, and pray you remember what the cost may be for Pharynx if you don’t put him before your heart.” Luna said. “I’m sure it will be conflicting because of your history with her.”
Metamorphosis nodded. Princess Luna smiled gently and disappeared in a flash. As Metamorphosis settled beside his sons, he wondered if he really could make the right choice.
After another day in Canterlot, where they dealt with more debates and trade deals, the changelings were headed home to the Hive. Metamorphosis grew silent and more stoic the closer they got. Because though he tried to push the thought to the back of his mind, Metamorphosis knew that once they arrived, they would be hunting down Chrysalis. His old mate.
Thorax seemed to have noticed, and Metamorphosis dimly noted his son approaching him. Pharynx, on the other hoof, appeared to be lost in his own thoughts.
“Dad…?” Thorax asked cautiously
Metamorphosis shook himself. “Yes, Thorax? What is it?”
“Well… it’s just…”
“Go ahead Thorax. You know you can tell me anything.”
“...You’ve been quiet since we dropped off Ocellus back at the school. Is something wrong?” Thorax asked him, having slowed his flight pace down to match Metamorphosis’.
“No… well, yes… but also about finding your mother.” Metamorphosis explained
“Oh…” Thorax looked away. Metamorphosis sighed.
“It’s just… we haven’t seen each other in over twenty years… I want to be glad I’ll have a chance to see her again, but after all you’ve told me… not to mention what she’s doing to Pharynx… I don’t know whether to be glad to find her or mad that she’s interfering with your brother like this.”
Thorax nodded in understanding. “Well… I don’t know if it helps, but… that letter we found… mother had kept it. She put it in the records, and… well, she wouldn’t have kept it if she didn’t still care.”
Metamorphosis looked at him. “Really?”
“Mhm. It is possible she forgot about it but if she didn’t miss you… she wouldn’t have kept it at all.”
Metamorphosis smiled. “You’re right.”
They landed outside the Hive, and Pharynx sighed. He yawned and stretched, looking back at them.
“So, what are you two’s plans for the day? I need to know so I can arrange the patrols to work with it.”
“Well… d-do you remember last night?” Thorax asked tentatively. Pharynx’s expression turned stony.
“Why?”
“W-Well, it’s important, and I promise I won’t force you to answer any uncomfortable questions, okay?” Thorax nuzzled him, and he nodded after a minute. “Okay… remember when Princess Luna came?”
Pharynx’s expression softened. “A-A bit… I remember her coming in… then she touched me with her horn and I fell asleep…”
Thorax nodded. “Well… while you were asleep, Luna helped us figure out what was going on.”
“Sh-She did?”
“Yes…” Thorax looked at Metamorphosis, who sighed and nodded, stepping forward.
“Son… there’s no easy way to say this, but… Chrysalis has been using a mindlink spell to influence your dreams.”
Pharynx blinked and stared at them. Thorax went forwards and hugged him.
“I know. Princess Luna said it got stronger when we left because she increased the power so she wouldn’t have to follow us.”
Pharynx hugged him tightly. “B-But that means… sh-she…”
“We’ll find her, I promise.” Metamorphosis said. “I promise, Pharynx.”
Pharynx stepped back, looking at his father and brother with determination in his eyes.
“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s go look for her.” he spoke.
Thorax and Metamorphosis looked at each other, then back at Pharynx.
“A-Are you sure about that Phar?”
“Positive.” Pharynx said, eyes narrowing. “I need to know the truth. I have to know why.”
Thorax and Metamorphosis seemed to both inexplicably understand what Pharynx meant, and why he spoke in such a cold tone. So, only a few minutes after arriving home, the three changelings set out. Pharynx suggested they scout the forests nearest the Hive.
“We should split up.” Pharynx said, looking around. “We’ll be able to cover more ground that way.”
“Alright…”
Thorax hesitated, but Pharynx had already left. Thorax and Metamorphosis shared a look, then Thorax disappeared into the undergrowth, and Metamorphosis went in the opposite direction.
As Metamorphosis picked his way through the undergrowth, he lit up his horn. He closed his eyes momentarily and let his magic branch out. A little tracking spell might help, perhaps he should have shown it to Thorax and Pharynx before letting Pharynx rush off. He focused on Chrysalis in his mind, and searched. His magic led him deeper into the forests.
Metamorphosis continued walking, then, he heard a strange hissing noise. He turned, looking around for the source of the noise.
“Hello?” Metamorphosis stopped and cast his eyes around wildly. “Who’s there?”
“One little changeling all by themself… what could possibly bring them here, to my domain? Surely they are wiser than that.” a very familiar voice spoke from the shadows.
Metamorphosis’ eyes narrowed. It couldn’t be.
“Come into the light.” he ordered, readying his stance for a fight if needed.
“Ooh, offering orders? Why, who do you think you are?” the voice spoke, but the rustling told him they were complying.
Metamorphosis’ eyes widened as the rustling and hoofsteps neared. The bushes trembled, and the figure emerged. It was clearly a female, and the hole ridden hooves displayed she was an unreformed changeling. The changeling was looking down at the ground with a familiar, haughty smirk on her face.
Despite it having been years since Metamorphosis had last seen her, the long blue mane was obvious. Her teal carapace and light blue, hole covered wings were recognizable. The twisted, jagged horn that rose above a small black crown instantly gave Metamorphosis the answer he was looking for.
The female changeling was glancing around the open area they stood in. She was clearly searching for the changeling who had dared to call out to her. Then, the female changeling turned… and locked eyes with Metamorphosis. Her mouth fell open slightly and the two stared at each other in silence. Metamorphosis’ gaze was hard at first, but seeing the shock on her face, his expression could only soften to awe.
“M-Metamorphosis?” the changeling gasped, eyes widening.
As Metamorphosis stared at this changeling, gazing into her teal-green, cat like eyes… he lost his voice. Her beauty had not left her over the years. And yet, as he stared into her entrancing gaze… Metamorphosis found he could only say one word in response. It was a word he found to be littered with amazement and the faintest trace of harshness.
“Wh-What are you doing here?” Chrysalis stalked forwards, head raised. “I-I see you still have not transformed.”
“Not by choice.” Metamorphosis dismissed. “As for what I’m doing here, I believe that question is better posed to you.”
Chrysalis scoffed. “Don’t tell me you’ve followed the pathetic traitor’s lead-”
“By ‘pathetic traitor’ do you mean our son?” Metamorphosis snarled. Chrysalis froze.
“You… you know-?”
“Thorax and Pharynx came looking for me.” Metamorphosis snarled. “How strange, isn’t it? That my sons had to be the ones to find me, to put effort into looking for a father they didn’t know a single thing about. When the one changeling who knew me the best didn’t even bother.”
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “Such accusations. Metamorphosis, you were the one who decided to leave. Could you blame me for wanting to forget you exist?”
“Yes. I could.” Metamorphosis stalked towards her. “I waited outside the Hive for weeks, hoping you’d come looking. Even after I left completely, I stayed relatively near. I wanted you to find me. I hoped maybe I’d be able to guide you to a better-”
“Spare me your little speeches!” Chrysalis snarled, hissing. “If I didn’t listen to the fool Starlight Glimmer, then what makes you think I’ll listen to you?”
“Because I know you still love me.” Metamorphosis replied. Chrysalis froze. “You kept the letter. Hid it away, yes. But you didn’t forget it. So you have no excuse.”
Chrysalis growled. “I advise you to watch your tongue. I am still your Queen-”
“You are the former queen.” Metamorphosis retorted. “I obey only one changeling now, and that is King Thorax.”
“You disgusting backstabber!” Chrysalis flung herself at Metamorphosis, pinning him to the ground. “You swore you’d stay beside me! You swore to remain loyal! You promised me never to betray the Hive!”
“And who broke those promises first?!” Metamorphosis bellowed. “Chrysalis, you abandoned my side when you grew distant! You did not remain loyal by not attempting to find me! And you betrayed the Hive by bringing them to ruin!”
Chrysalis snarled, but her grip weakened and he pushed her off. Metamorphosis stood tall as she struggled to stand.
“You seem to forget we both made those promises. And you broke them first. And now, I see you crawling back to the Hive to try and invade your own child’s mind!”
“Wh-How do you know about that?!”
“Pharynx’s nightmares are no secret to me. And Princess Luna was quite willing to assist.”
As Chrysalis growled and spat, tongue flicking out, Metamorphosis got closer.
“How dare you, Chrysalis? You return to the Hive at long last after abandoning the Hive yourself, something that would have been treason in the Old Days. But instead of trying a diplomatic approach or even announcing yourself… you come to try and harm my son.”
“Pharynx is my son as well, Meta.”
“It seems like you never cared about either of them, Chrissy. So they are my children. Not yours.” Metamorphosis looked up from the ground. “What do you even want with him? Do you have any idea what you could have done?”
This captured Chrysalis’ attention again. Her eyes shadowed and her smirk returned.
“I want my Hive back. I want my Prince back where he belongs, sitting beside me as a faithful servant with his traitorous and worthless brother lying dead and defeated at his hooves.”
Metamorphosis’ eyes went wide. “Chrysalis… how could you say such things?”
“How could I not?” she laughed “You always were weak, Meta dear. Pathetic, useless. I suppose they’re right, like father like son. Worthless king like worthless king.”
Metamorphosis roared and slammed his hooves on the ground. “You will not speak of my sons like that!”
“I will speak of them however I want!” Chrysalis retorted. “A weak little mewling grub like Thorax should have died long ago! Pharynx belongs at my side and I will ensure he is!”
“You will not!” Metamorphosis shouted “You will not cause any further harm to either of my sons, you will not try to make your fantasies reality!”
“And what if I do try?!” Chrysalis shouted
“Then you will lose.” Metamorphosis growled.
Hoofsteps sounded, and two figures burst from the undergrowth. Thorax and Pharynx.
“Dad, what was that yell, who-” Thorax froze, and Chrysalis turned to him. She smirked.
“Won’t you two come say hi to mother?”
“Never.” Pharynx growled, igniting his antlers. “It was you. You were the one making me think those things.”
“All I did was stir the fears that were already there, my son.”
“I. Am not. Your. Son.” Pharynx snarled.
“A shame.” Chrysalis flicked her mane with a hoof, then looked up at him with a smirk. “I had faith in you, my son. That you would come to me. I’m so disappointed in you.”
Pharynx’s eyes flashed with hurt. Metamorphosis saw this. Chrysalis may not have been a good mother to either of her sons, but she was the only one they had. To hear she thought they weren’t good enough had to sting, despite her not being the first creature whose opinion they would count as valid. Metamorphosis strode closer to her. His height matched hers, and they looked each other in the eye.
“When I first met Thorax and Pharynx, and they explained… I asked if you had embraced the change as well. I was eager to know if you finally listened. When I learned you hadn’t… I was upset. I wanted you to see things from my ideals.”
Metamorphosis took a deep breath, steeling himself for what was to come next. Thorax and Pharynx stood on either side of him, antlers alight.
“But after learning that you were the reason my son was terrified to sleep? The reason he needed love and affection more than ever? I could never go back to you. I… I can’t believe I ever loved you, Chrysalis.”
Chrysalis stiffened. Then, she snarled. “If that’s the way you have to think? Fine. Once I enact my revenge on Starlight Glimmer, I will be back for you, Metamorphosis.”
“I’d like to see you try, Chrysalis.” Metamorphosis spat.
Chrysalis spread her wings and lifted off. She snarled once more before leaving. As they watched her silhouette fade into the horizon, Thorax pressed against Metamorphosis.
“Dad…”
“I’m alright.” Metamorphosis said. And truly, he was. It felt like a weight had been lifted off him, seeing her leave. Pharynx stepped closer.
“Dad… I…”
“Don’t, Pharynx.” Metamorphosis smiled. “Anything, for my sons. The ones who really loved me.”
Thorax hugged him tight. Pharynx hesitated only a moment before joining in. Metamorphosis hugged back.
“Will the nightmares be gone?” Pharynx croaked
“If what she said was true… those fears will always be there, Pharynx. But the nightmares will no doubt come less frequently without her around to stir the fear.” Metamorphosis replied
Pharynx nodded, pressing against his father. “C-Can we go back now, dad?”
“Of course Pharynx.” Metamorphosis released both his sons, looking at them with a smile. “Let’s go home.”
“Heh, alright. Let’s go find Thorax, okay? Do you know where he might be?”
Pharynx sighed. “Well, it’s morning, he doesn’t have anything scheduled for the day, so… the nursery. Let’s go.”
Metamorphosis beamed as Pharynx led the way out of the room. He was very glad to see Pharynx was back to his normal self. He trotted happily beside his son, and soon, they reached the nursery.
“Thorax? You in here?” Pharynx asked, poking his head in.
“Pharynx!”
Thorax trotted out of the nursery, a few nymphs clinging to him. One was lime green, another was a light lavender color, and another was a rosy pinkish-red. All three were males, and hopped off obediently as Thorax left the nursery.
“Aww, hello cuties!” Metamorphosis reached to scoop up the lavender nymph. “What’s your name little one?”
“V-Viorel…” the nymph whispered, snuggling into him.
“H-Hi…” Viorel hugged him, then opened his wings and fluttered back down to his friends. He nuzzled one, the rose pink-red nymph, then they ran back into the nursery.
“Heh, I see you’re awake Pharynx.” Thorax hugged him. “No nightmares?”
“Thorax!” Pharynx protested. He glanced around, then lowered his voice. “Y-Yeah… no nightmares.”
“Oh, yes! I’m so happy for you!” Thorax nuzzled him.
“Alright, alright, let go!” Pharynx shoved him.
Metamorphosis chuckled. He was very happy to see his sons like this. They still acted like nymphs at times, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. Thorax finally released Pharynx, then looked to Metamorphosis.
“So, have you two eaten yet?”
“Heh, no, not yet.” Metamorphosis said, just as Thorax’s stomach growled. He chuckled. “And it sounds like you haven’t either.”
“Heheh… no…” Thorax blushed sheepishly. “I just had to say good morning to these cute little ones first, and…”
“I understand.” Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled Thorax. “Come on, let’s get breakfast.”
Thorax nodded and they headed off. They reached the cafeteria fairly quickly, and after getting food from the counter, they headed for their table. Metamorphosis sat beside Pharynx, Thorax on Pharynx’s other side.
“So you really didn’t have any bad dreams Phar?”
“I already told you no.”
“Just making sure.” Thorax replied hastily.
Pharynx rolled his eyes, biting into the Prench toast he’d selected. Metamorphosis smiled and slipped a hoof around him.
“Well, I’m very glad that you’re doing better. I… honestly expected you to have a nightmare, after all that happened yesterday.”
Pharynx scoffed. “Please dad, have a bit more faith in me. I’m tougher than that.”
Thorax chuckled. “Phar, while the nightmares were happening you crawled into bed with me every other night.”
“Sh-Shut up Thorax.” Pharynx grunted, then seemed to remember something, and smirked. “Besides, I like to think of it as returning the favor.”
“Huh? What are you talking abou-ohh…” Thorax blushed.
“Heh, Pharynx, what are you talking about?” Metamorphosis asked, sensing a story behind the remark.
Pharynx smirked. “Well…”
“O-Oh, I don’t think knowing that is necessary-”
“You see dad, back in the Old Days, when we were nymphs, Lil’ Thorax over there used to have nightmares. He was also afraid of pretty much everything that ‘goes bump in the night’ as I’ve heard ponies put it. Because of that, whenever he got scared, he’d scream and run over, then huddle beside me until eventually passing out. Whether from fear or just being tired I could never tell.”
Metamorphosis couldn’t help but let out a chuckle in the expense of his now blushing son. Pharynx chuckled and nudged Thorax teasingly.
“Pharynx…” Thorax moaned
“Oh come on, it’s not like you haven’t done more embarrassing things than that.”
Thorax still groaned, and Metamorphosis gave him a sympathetic pat on the back. Pharynx just laughed softly.
“Look at it this way son, at least Pharynx is feeling more like himself enough to tease you.”
“I guess…” Thorax sighed
“Oh please, that’s not even the most embarrassing story I could tell. I’ve got a whole bunch of them!” Pharynx exclaimed, pausing to take a bite of his food.
“Oh?” Metamorphosis asked.
“Mhm. Hey, dad, did I tell you about the hitting yourself game?”
“Hm… no, I don’t believe so.”
“Oh no, not that one-”
“Well, it all starts back when we were nymphs. Every young changeling wanted to be a warrior. Everyling except Thorax, that is. He was a little weak. But I had to protect my little brother, of course…”
As Pharynx launched into the story, Thorax faceplanted onto the table with an embarrassed moan. Metamorphosis chuckled and stood, sitting between Pharynx and Thorax instead to rub Thorax’s back in comfort as he listened.
“Something tells me that this is going to be a long day…” Thorax muttered
Metamorphosis laughed softly. He watched Pharynx silently, smiling where appropriate and proud that his son had bounced back so quickly. Metamorphosis knew Pharynx likely was still a little shaken, but was glad he was feeling more like his usual self again. Ready to snark and tease and be a true big brother to Thorax.
Metamorphosis smiled widely as he listened to Pharynx tell the “hitting yourself” story. He couldn’t help but feel that everything was as it should be. Yes, everything was going to be just fine.
Metamorphosis sat up in bed, yawning. He got up and stretched slightly, then headed out of his room. All his instincts urged him to go back to bed, it was getting colder. Changelings used to hibernate in the winter to conserve their love, but they had no need for that now.
In spite of there not being a need to hibernate, many changelings were still getting drowsy as it got colder. And today was especially chilly, meaning Metamorphosis saw many changelings yawning and struggling to stay awake. Metamorphosis then pricked his ears as the sound of his sons’ bantering reached them. He sighed with a small shake of his head and followed the voices.
“Ahh!” he yelped, stumbling.
“Sorry Metamorphosis!” Sillia yelped.
Sillia, Cornicle, Fema, and Tibius had fallen asleep in the hallway again. Metamorphosis laughed softly as they stood up.
“It’s okay, I’m not mad.” Metamorphosis said as he regained his balance. “How about I don’t tell Pharynx if you four go nap in your rooms, okay?”
“Okay!” they all chorused, beaming as they raced off.
Metamorphosis chuckled and continued on his way. He heard the arguing coming from the throne room and entered. He then looked around for his sons.
Thorax was standing with Pharynx by his throne. A small, familiar green nymph was curled up on the throne, napping. Metamorphosis trotted over to them.
“Morning boys.” Metamorphosis greeted, rubbing the nymph’s head. He smiled and yawned, eyes opening. “Morning Apex.”
“Oh, dad, there you are.” Thorax said, getting his attention, looking at Pharynx. “Tell Pharynx he needs to go lie down.”
“I do not!” Pharynx retorted
“Um… why does he need to lie down, Thorax?” Metamorphosis asked
“He’s sick.” Thorax explained
“I am not sick!” Pharynx stomped a hoof in frustration.
Metamorphosis grabbed his hoof to hold him still, getting a better look. Pharynx did look tired, and his ears were dropping. His nose was sort of red and Metamorphosis noticed Pharynx looked like he was having trouble standing. He touched his muzzle gently to Pharynx’s forehead, feeling a searing hot temperature.
“You are sick, Pharynx. You have a fever.”
“No I don’t!” Pharynx protested
“Yes you do!” Thorax moved closer. “And you’re sick because you didn’t listen to me last night about not going outside. It was freezing and you spent a good two hours out there!”
“Someone needed to patrol, and good luck getting those soft-shelled soldiers to do it!” Pharynx retorted
“Pharynx, you really went outside in the cold?” Metamorphosis shook his head. “Come on, I’m taking you to bed.”
“No!” Pharynx pulled away from Metamorphosis. “I’m fine, honestly. Besides, Tempest’s coming over and I promised her we’d do some sparring.”
“You are not overexerting yourself like that while you’re sick.” Metamorphosis said sternly.
“Watch me.” Pharynx sneered.
Pharynx turned and stalked off. Or, tried to. He stumbled, barely catching himself in time. Thorax rolled his eyes slightly and joined Metamorphosis. The two trotted over to Pharynx and Metamorphosis reached out a hoof to steady him.
“Pharynx, please. You’re sick, come on, let’s get you to bed.”
Pharynx rolled his eyes. “I am not si-” he broke off, coughing.
“You were saying?” Thorax asked
“That doesn’t mean anything!” Pharynx protested, then sneezed. “Ugh…”
“Come on Pharynx, bed.” Metamorphosis grabbed Pharynx’s hoof and pulled him away.
“Dad…” Pharynx moaned
Metamorphosis led Pharynx back to his room. Pharynx begrudgingly laid down in bed and let Metamorphosis pull the blankets over him.
“Dad, really, I’m fine.”
“You’re fine when I say you are.” Metamorphosis replied sharply.
“Dad?” Thorax poked his head into the room. Metamorphosis went to him. “Is he okay? I’d stay and help you look after him but I don’t want Apex to get sick and there’s no one to watch him… plus I have some political things to do…”
“Heh, Pharynx will be fine Thorax.” Metamorphosis nuzzled Thorax. “Go take care of your work and look after your own son. I’ll take care of Pharynx.”
“Okay. I’ll send Tempest over when she gets her-”
Crash!
“So close.” Pharynx muttered
Thorax and Metamorphosis turned around. Pharynx had tried to get out of bed and knocked over the bedside table. He groaned as he picked himself up.
“Pharynx…” Metamorphosis chided
“Whatever… I almost made i-i-achoo!”
“Bed.” Metamorphosis ordered. Pharynx rolled his eyes and clambered back in.
“Are you sure you can handle it dad…?” Thorax asked nervously.
“It’ll be fine.” Metamorphosis promised him. Thorax sighed and nodded before leaving.
Metamorphosis turned back to Pharynx. He trotted over and nuzzled Pharynx affectionately.
“Daad… geroff…”
“Heh, get some rest son.”
“Nooo…”
“You need to rest so you can get better.”
“No’ a chance…” Pharynx grunted.
Metamorphosis chuckled and laid down beside Pharynx, eliciting a grunt of annoyance from him. Pharynx groaned as Metamorphosis placed a foreleg around him.
“Go to sleep son.”
“Nope.” Pharynx then coughed a few times and moaned, rubbing his stomach. “Ugh…”
“Come on Pharynx, please.”
“I… uh…”
“Need some help?” a familiar voice asked
Metamorphosis looked up and smiled, rising. “Tempest.”
“Tempy?” Pharynx raised his head sleepily.
The dark purple unicorn trotted over and gave Pharynx a gentle kiss on the cheek. Metamorphosis smiled and stepped back. Tempest let Pharynx nuzzle her lovingly. He then turned slightly and sneezed.
“You should get some rest, Phar.”
“B-But Tempy…” Pharynx coughed and rested his head back against the pillow. “I’m…”
“Sick.” Tempest finished, stroking his cheek gently with a hoof. “Come on bug, even warriors take care of themselves.”
Pharynx blinked sleepily, and Metamorphosis trotted closer. He leaned down and nuzzled his son, ignoring the burning heat.
“Please Pharynx? It’s the only way you can get better.”
Pharynx hesitated, then nodded slowly. His eyes closed and he coughed slightly as his head hit the pillow. Tempest smiled and climbed into the bed beside him, lying down on top of the covers and wrapping a hoof over him.
“I trust you’ll be staying, Tempest?” Metamorphosis asked
“I already took the day off.” Tempest shrugged, nuzzling Pharynx and kissing his cheek. “And the bug clearly needs my supervision, no offense.”
Metamorphosis shook his head. “None taken Tempest. I know that I’m probably going to end up being too soft on him, as he’s my son.”
Tempest smiled and pulled Pharynx against her. Metamorphosis smiled and leaned against the bed, watching Pharynx quietly. Tempest rubbed Pharynx’s back gently, and the beta changeling settled down, falling asleep.
“Go ahead and rest with him Tempest.” Metamorphosis murmured. “I’ll watch over you both.”
“Thanks Metamorphosis.” Tempest smiled, pulling Pharynx closer and closing her eyes.
Metamorphosis smiled softly as Tempest’s breathing got slower and deeper. He put a hoof on the bed, smiling. He’d wait just a few more minutes, then go get some soup for Pharynx. Metamorphosis smiled at his son.
“I’ll take good care of you Pharynx. I promise, my son.” Metamorphosis whispered, meaning every word of it.
Metamorphosis smiled as he walked down the hallway. It was nearing the festival Thorax called Hearth’s Warming, and because of this, his son asked him to oversee some of the decorating in the east wing. He looked around and smiled at the changelings.
“Dajia, good job with that… what was it… right, tinsel. Oh, Nox, could you help Nix adjust that reath? Or was it wreath…?” Metamorphosis continued to debate with himself over the terms in a low voice. This was all as new to him as to the others.
As Metamorphosis wandered through the east wing, he came across two changelings in particular. Pupae and Oculus, mates who he knew more officially as Ocellus’ parents.
Metamorphosis had learned from Pharynx that both were… struggling to adapt. They had accepted the new way of life, certainly. However, Thorax had needed assertiveness lessons from Ember to convince them, among others, to change.
All in all, from what Metamorphosis had gathered, Oculus and Pupae seemed to be like Pharynx, but with an even more guard-focused mindset. They believed that even Pharynx was too soft after his transformation. They constantly refused to show up to training because of this, and believed a lack of outer, offense-centered strategies would end badly for the Hive.
“After what happened with Pharynx’s nightmares from Chrysalis, I’m almost inclined to agree with them…” Metamorphosis thought as he trotted up to them, but dismissed this. They greeted him with polite smiles.
“Metamorphosis!” Pupae called cheerfully. “How’s this for popcorn strings?”
Metamorphosis examined them and gave a small nod. “Wonderful, Pupae, Oculus, thank you.”
Oculus nodded curtly. “It was a simple task, Metamorphosis. But Pupae and I wonder if this time could be better used?”
“Here we go again…” years of ruling beside Chrysalis ensured Metamorphosis kept a straight face. “What did you have in mind?”
“Well, we were thinking…” Pupae stepped forwards. “Seeing as Ocellus is attending a school in Ponyville, that implies a reliable travel will need to be arranged from the Hive to the town.”
“Like a train.” Metamorphosis suggested
“I’d advise against that.” Oculus spoke up. “A train to our direct location could provide an easy way for an enemy to sneak in if left unguarded. And as Pharynx is clearly too weak to think of this-”
“My son is a capable and intelligent changeling.” Metamorphosis cut in, his red tail lashing slightly. “I’m sure he has considered this already and discussed it with his brother.”
“Oculus and I mean no offense to your family Metamorphosis.” Pupae said, blinking up at him. “But honestly, our Ocellus is able to beat him in a chess match, so really, how smart can he be?”
Metamorphosis glared at her. “Do not judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, or it will live its whole life believing it is stupid. That is the kind of mindset you should have with any of your fellow changelings, or even with other creatures. Just because Pharynx lacks skill on a chessboard, it does not mean he lacks skill on a battlefield. Am I understood?”
“Y-Yes Metamorphosis…” Pupae said, stepping back, though Metamorphosis still detected some lingering doubt of his words. He chose to ignore this and made to leave.
“You should go check on your other nymphs.” he said, referring to Ocellus’ younger siblings, who were nursery-aged. “Don’t worry about the train matters for the moment. Besides, Thorax tells me there’s a pony town nearby whose mayor has offered his hoof in friendship. They probably will have some opinions on a train stop.”
With that, Metamorphosis headed off, unaware of the looks that Oculus and Pupae exchanged behind him. They were not looks of content from this new information.
Metamorphosis continued on down the hall, shaking off some of his previous frustration at the couple. He instead looked around the halls, and smiled softly. He remembered running through these halls as a nymph, playing with only his imagination and pretend friends he made for himself. He was lonely as a nymph, but never unhappy for long with his mind to entertain him.
Of course, the halls back then had been ever shifting and changing like them-great for hide and tag, but not when your only companion was friends in your mind. They had also been dark, some lit with the occasionally glowing slime.
Now the corridors were still, no longer remolding themselves after Chrysalis’ throne was destroyed. And the places not bathed in the sun’s glow were lit brightly with lanterns containing fireflies, natural light from insects who were released every night to darken the Hive, then would instinctively return to the lanterns the next day.
Metamorphosis chuckled as he reached an empty hallway, free of the bustling and busy changelings as they prepared for the new winter tradition. He sat down in the hallway, looking around. It was a hallway near the nursery, and he remembered playing in it as a nymph.
Back then, the nursery was not the moss-covered, safe and secure place Thorax had turned it into. It was cold and empty, but for tussling nymphs who fought each other for fun, occasionally drawing blood. Thorax had perhaps envisioned what he had wanted his own nymph-hood to be like for the new layout of the nursery.
“So many things I missed out on…” Metamorphosis whispered, lying on his stomach and resting his head between his forelegs. “If I’d stayed… I’d have seen them… guided my sons as nymphs so they’d discover much sooner what we could become.”
As Metamorphosis closed his eyes, he heard a giggle. He opened his eyes and sat up, startled.
A young nymph was toddling past. But it was unreformed. Metamorphosis gasped softly as he recognized the teal carapace and wide, blue eyes. The nymph looked around the hallway in wonder, and Metamorphosis too, noticed it was now shifting and moving again. He looked back at the nymph.
“Th-Thorax…?”
As he murmured it, another unreformed nymph came up. He boasted a red frill on his neck and a short red tail, with purple wings and a jagged violet carapace. He trotted sharply, like a soldier, and gazed at the first nymph with slitted lavender eyes.
Metamorphosis blinked and rubbed his eyes. When he opened them again, the nymphs were gone.
“I-I must be seeing things…” Metamorphosis mumbled.
“Seeing things?” a familiar voice made him look up.
“Oh, there you are Thorax.” Metamorphosis stood and trotted to the alpha.
“Well, Apex is napping so I thought I’d check how the decorations were coming along.” Thorax said, as a grumbling Pharynx trotted up behind him. “Oh, Pharynx, there you are. Why’d you stay back?”
“Oculus.” Pharynx grunted. “If ever a changeling asked to have his wings torn off… Ocellus’ father or not, I can’t stand him, or his mate.”
“That’s obvious.” Thorax mumbled, but nuzzled his brother in comfort. “Don’t let them rile you up too much, Pharynx. They’re just voicing their opinion.”
“They could do it without making me angry.” Pharynx grumbled
Thorax chose to ignore this, turning to Metamorphosis. “So, dad, what were you saying about seeing things?”
“I-It’s nothing…” Metamorphosis said, but Pharynx fixed a stern gaze on him.
“You didn’t drop it when I called the nightmares ‘nothing’.”
“Heh, fair enough.” Metamorphosis nuzzled Pharynx. “It’s just… I thought I saw… you two, as nymphs.”
Thorax blinked. “Us as nymphs? Uh, dad, do you think you might have caught Pharynx’s cold?”
Pharynx rolled his eyes, and Metamorphosis shook his head.
“It’s not that. It sounds strange, but it was almost like a memory.”
Pharynx seemed lost in thought for a minute, then locked eyes with Metamorphosis. “What about the desire-crystals?”
Metamorphosis recalled the term. Desire-crystals. Blue shaded crystals said to show you or any other creature whatever you desired to see. He had been thinking about missing Thorax and Pharynx’s childhood so it made sense. There was only one problem.
“Those things are myths, Pharynx-” Metamorphosis started to say
“They’re real.” Pharynx interrupted, beginning to lead his father and brother down the hallway. “I was shown them when I was made General. Chrysalis led me there herself. She claimed to have placed them near the nursery in order to subconsciously teach the young of our history with ponies.”
“But in reality…” Metamorphosis began
“In reality, I believe they were placed here because no one would ever think to look here.”
With that, Pharynx stopped in front of a wall densely covered by vines.
“These vines were once old and dry, but thanks to Thorax’s ‘reformation’ of the Hive, they grew back.” Pharynx explained, antlers glowing to lift aside the vines.
Metamorphosis’ eyes widened in wonder as he stepped forwards. Sheltered behind the vines was an alcove. Nestled inside as carefully as eggs, and just as fragile, were smooth, shining blue crystals of varying sizes.
“Desire-crystals.” Metamorphosis breathed
Pharynx reached and carefully took one, holding it in his hoof. “I guess they sensed you wanting to see us as nymphs… but why were you?”
“I just…” Metamorphosis sighed. “I missed so much of your lives. I never got to see you grow, see you as eggs, or…”
Thorax nuzzled him. “Dad…”
“Well, you can see that.” Pharynx nodded to the crystals.
“Really?” Thorax asked “We can use them to see us as nymphs?”
Pharynx nodded. “We’ll need three.” he said, taking two more from the alcove. “And a quiet room to watch the memories.”
“Alright.” Thorax smiled and turned. He led them to an empty room near the nursery.
Metamorphosis watched as Pharynx laid the stones in the center of the room.
“Alright, now dad, speak your desire.” Pharynx instructed “But be warned, there will only be three memories, because there are only three stones. So specify clearly what you want.”
Metamorphosis nodded. “I… I wish to see what my sons were like… as nymphs.”
The crystals glowed, and suddenly, the room was changed. They were in the hallway by the nursery, and the two nymphs Metamorphosis had seen before reappeared. Thorax and Pharynx. The two brothers moved closer to their father, watching their younger selves.
“Pharynx, it’s so big!” Thorax proclaimed. Pharynx rolled his eyes.
“Course it’s big. Did you think the whole world was the nursery?”
Thorax clopped his front hooves together nervously. “Maybe…”
“Really? Ugh, you’re such a grub, Thorax.”
“F-Funny, Pharynx…”
“Come on, I want to check out the armory.” Pharynx said, trotting away quickly.
“B-But Pharynx, mother said we’re not supposed to-”
“She’s just trying to keep you a weak little grub. Let’s go, how else are you going to be able to defend yourself?” Pharynx looked back at his brother.
“I-I thought… maybe we could just be friends with the other nymphs…?” Thorax suggested
“...You’re stupid.” Pharynx deadpanned “Come on, to the armory.”
As the two nymphs headed away, the memory faded. Pharynx and Thorax looked at each other. Thorax was wearing a smirk, surprisingly.
“Not so stupid now, am I?”
“Oh give me a break, we were five!”
Thorax just chuckled, and Metamorphosis shook his head with a smile. The scene then changed again. The young Thorax seemed a bit older.
Thorax was sitting in a corner of a room stacked high with weapons, playing with some dolls made of sticks. A little way away, a young Pharynx, the same age as his brother, was staring, awed, at the weapons in question. They were in the armory, clearly.
“Interesting, aren’t they, young prince?” a new female changeling wandered up.
“Yes ma’am.” Pharynx said, and she levitated over a small blade and holster. Pharynx gasped softly.
“This shall be your starter weapon.” she laid it in Pharynx’s outstretched hooves. “As current General, it will be my duty and honor to train you to use it. Keep it safe, and when the time comes, I will show you how to fight with it.”
Pharynx clutched the blade to his chest, nodding. “I will protect it, General Fortuna, ma’am.”
“I am glad.” she looked over at Thorax. “Do me a favor. Watch over your brother, young prince. He is younger than you and clearly in need of proper guidance.”
“Yes ma’am.” Pharynx said, still staring at the blade.
With that, Fortuna rubbed his head and left the room. Pharynx tucked the blade safely into the holster, which he strapped around his flank. Then, he proudly trotted to Thorax, sneering slightly at the younger nymph but the faintest hint of glee in his eyes.
The memory once again faded. Pharynx smiled softly.
“Fortuna. The best mentor I could have wanted. She not only gave me my first blade, but trained me in everything I know.”
Metamorphosis wrapped a foreleg over his son. “I’m sure she was a great mentor.”
Pharynx nodded. Then, as Thorax nuzzled him, the memory changed again, for the third, and last, time.
“Pharynx?” The Thorax here seemed a teenage nymph, no more than thirteen or so. He walked towards his brother, who had a sword sheathed and strapped to his side. Pharynx seemed to be waiting on him.
“There you are. Come on, let’s get going.” Pharynx said, but Thorax held still.
“But… but I don’t want to train.”
“Well, you have to.”
“But-” Thorax was cut off as Pharynx held up a hoof to stop him. He began to speak.
“Look, brother, I know you’re not a fighter, and frankly, Hivemother forbid you ever end up in my forces. But unless you want to get on our mother’s bad side, and face punishment, you’re going to have to learn to defend yourself.”
“But I can’t…”
Pharynx rolled his eyes. “I know that you feel like you can’t do it. And stop trying to hide your emotions, you know I can taste them as well as any other changeling. Now, just get out there and start training! I don’t care if you have to partner with me again, Thorax, get out there!”
“But Pharynx, I…” Thorax trembled slightly, and Pharynx rolled his eyes.
“Yeah yeah, I get it, you’re scared. But you think I care about your namby-pamby feelings? Get going, brother, or I’ll get you to be chased by Hydras again!” Pharynx snapped, as Thorax began to cry. “Oh, so you’re gonna cry?! You think I care?! Because I don’t. I… really… don’t…”
Pharynx trailed off and sighed as Thorax wiped his eyes. His gaze softened and he laid a hoof on Thorax’s shoulder.
“Look, just… just go grab your sword and follow me.”
“Wh-Why?”
“I know a quiet place we can practice, I’ll teach you some basic defense moves. But hey!” he lifted Thorax’s hoof and punched him with it, making him squeak. “Don’t you go soft on me because you’re worried about hurting me. Trust me, I’ll be safe from your weak blows. You better give it your all, then maybe I’ll consider not playing the hitting yourself game to you afterwards. Alright?”
“O-Okay Pharynx.”
“Okay.” With that, Pharynx led Thorax away.
The final memory faded, and Metamorphosis found that he, along with both his sons, was tearing up. Pharynx leaned against Metamorphosis, who hugged him.
“You really loved him, deep down.” Metamorphosis whispered
“Y-Yeah…” Pharynx admitted. Thorax smiled and leaned over to nuzzle him.
“Good thing I always knew that. Things like that proved it for me.” Thorax said
“I…” Pharynx wiped his eyes. “I love you, baby bro.”
“Heh, I love you too, big bro.” Thorax said, pulling him into a hug.
Metamorphosis hugged them. “I love you both.”
“D-Do you want to see more?” Pharynx asked
Metamorphosis thought for a minute, then shook his head. “I think… it’s best to leave the past in the past. We shall remember it, cherish the good and bad memories equally, and smile at days that have passed us by. But we shall look to the future as well.”
“I couldn’t agree more dad.” Thorax murmured, beaming.
“Happy hearts so full bright, Hearth’s Warming Eve is here once again~” a couple changelings hummed as they passed the throne room.
Metamorphosis chuckled as he watched the happy changelings, excited for the celebration that would begin the next day. He was sitting by Thorax’s throne, Pharynx on the other side. Thorax was lazing on his throne as he usually did, and giggled as he heard the changelings. He began humming the song. Apex, who was curled up with him, glanced up at him.
“Oh what a sight, look at the lights, all for tonigh-”
“Will you knock it off Thorax?” Pharynx muttered, and Apex giggled.
“Let him sing, Pharynx, it’s a nice song.” Metamorphosis said
“If ‘nice’ is equal to ‘cavity-inducing’.” Pharynx grumbled
“Aww, such a little humbug.” Thorax teased, patting him on the head.
“A what now?” Pharynx asked, swatting Thorax’s hoof away.
“Hum-bug?” Apex asked, and Thorax nuzzled him.
“Cadence and Shining told me it meant false or deceptive talk.”
“Well then Hearth’s Warming is a humbug.” Pharynx said
“Aww, come on Phar, what’s not to love?”
“The colorful decorations, the endless singing, the overpowering love…” Pharynx listed, and Apex began giggling.
“Th-That’s enough Pharynx.” Thorax said, covering his brother’s mouth. Just as Pharynx pulled away and opened his mouth to say something else, they heard someling call out to them.
“Happy Hearth’s Warming Thorax!” Ocellus came trotting in, wearing a scarf and earmuffs. Metamorphosis chuckled, she looked adorable.
“Oh, Ocellus! I didn’t expect you this early!” Thorax said
“I finished packing early, so we were able to catch an earlier train.”
“We?” Pharynx asked
“I, uh, invited Smolder to come.” Ocellus explained, blushing slightly. “She said the Feast of Fire gets boring after a while, and her parents gave her permission…”
“It’s perfectly alright Ocellus.” Thorax smiled at her kindly. “In fact, Ember is going to be visiting as well.”
“Oh.” Ocellus brightened. “Smolder will like that. She was getting our bags.”
Smolder herself entered just then, carrying a couple bags and a backpack on her back. Ocellus smiled as she walked up.
“Heh, hello Smolder.” Thorax greeted
“Hey.” Smolder greeted.
“Come on Smolder, we can share my room.” Ocellus said
“Kay then.” Smolder headed out
“Hold on a moment Ocellus.” Metamorphosis suddenly, and she paused.
“Y-Yes, Metamorphosis?”
Metamorphosis waited for Smolder to leave the throne room, then spoke. “You invited her here to win her affections, didn’t you?”
“Wh-What?” Ocellus blushed heavily.
“It’s okay Ocellus, I’m not trying to upset you.” Metamorphosis assured her. Thorax sat up slightly.
“Dad’s right, it’s okay if that’s the reason, Ocellus.”
Ocellus looked away, then nodded. “I… I asked her to come so I could tell her how I feel…”
“G’oss.” Apex said, sticking out his tongue. Metamorphosis chuckled and picked the nymph up, nuzzling him.
Thorax smiled at them, then stood, going to her. She looked up at him and he nuzzled her.
“How about you and Smolder, and your family of course, spend the holidays with my family? Ember will be there too, and Tempest, but they won’t mind.”
“R-Really?”
“Of course.” Thorax smiled at her. “I’ll let you catch up with Smolder now, okay?”
Ocellus nodded, hugging him briefly. “Thank you Thorax.” with that, she headed out.
“We’re really going to let her and her family join us?” Pharynx asked as Thorax returned to his throne.
“Of course Pharynx, don’t worry about it. I’m sure she and Smolder will agree not to say anything about Ember and Tempest.”
“It’s not them I’m worried about.” Pharynx retorted. “It’s Oculus and Pupae. If they say one thing about my ‘lackluster’ training styles…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I’m sure it’ll be fine, Pharynx. And look how excited Ocellus was. She really wants to show Smolder how she feels.”
“I guess I can stand her parents for her sake…” Pharynx sighed. “Ocellus isn’t so bad…”
“I’m glad we’re in agreement.” Thorax smiled.
That night, the Hive was calm and quiet. Most lights were off, waiting for the traditions to begin the next day. But one light shone in a single room. In this room, was Metamorphosis, his sons, and Apex. Along with two others.
Thorax was lying on his stomach, and leaning back against him was Ember. She was smiling at the alpha changeling, a claw resting in a bowl of gems, listening to him talk. Pharynx was nearby, curled up with Tempest. The mare was resting, tired after a long day of patrols before Twilight had sent her off on a mandatory holiday break. Metamorphosis lay between the two couples, smiling at their affection, taking the tiniest bit of the love they were emitting. Apex was curled up on his back, yawning.
The door opened slowly, and the group all looked up. Ocellus stepped in cautiously, holding two nymphs on her back. Smolder was behind her. These nymphs were her siblings, a pink themed female named Scorpia, and a green themed male named Capillarie.
“Ah, Ocellus, there you are.” Metamorphosis smiled at her as she let the nymphs slide off her back.
“I-I hope we aren’t late…”
“Of course not.” Thorax replied kindly, as the nymphs ran to him. He giggled as they began clambering onto his antlers, playing. “Heh, hello little ones.”
“Where are your parents?” Pharynx asked, Thorax and Metamorphosis both shot stern looks at him.
“They… they didn’t want to come.” Ocellus explained, head drooping sadly.
“I see…” Metamorphosis frowned.
Oculus and Pupae were frustrating, but never did they seem to be neglectful parents. He wondered why they were doing this now, as well as clearly passing off the responsibility of watching their young nymphs to their daughter.
“Don’t worry about them Ocellus, we are glad to have you and Smolder here.” Thorax said, smiling. Ocellus brightened and sat down near them, Smolder joining her.
They talked for a while, and Metamorphosis definitely noticed a strong attraction between the two young creatures. More than that, Smolder was teasing Ocellus, making Metamorphosis smile.
“She’s practically flirting with her.”
Smolder slipped an arm around Ocellus’ shoulders, giving her a light squeeze and smirking.
“So, you said you had a gift for me?”
“It’s tradition.” Ocellus replied, blushing. “So you’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”
“Ugh, come on!” Smolder groaned, and Ocellus giggled, daring to lean against Smolder. The dragoness blushed and pulled her closer.
Soon, Capillarie and Scorpia were curled up in Metamorphosis’ forelegs, sleeping beside Apex. Pharynx and Tempest were sleepily cuddling. Ember had fallen asleep already, lying against Thorax, her arms loosely around his neck. Ocellus and Smolder were dozing as well.
“Heh, I think it’s time for bed.” Thorax said, rising and adjusting Ember to carry her on his back.
“Mhm…” Pharynx yawned and stood wearily, Tempest beside him.
Ocellus and Smolder stood up, yawning and stretching. Metamorphosis laid the sleeping nymphs on Ocellus’ back.
“Goodnight Ocellus, Smolder.” Thorax replied, smiling. As Ocellus and Smolder left, Pharynx and Tempest headed out of the room as well. “Night Pharynx, night Tempest.”
“Night Thor, Apex, you too dad…” Pharynx yawned, leaning on Tempest and smiling at her. “C’mon Temp, I can’t wait to get some sleep…”
“Right behind you, my king.” Tempest said, giggling softly at his blush.
Metamorphosis nuzzled Thorax. “I’ll take Apex to snuggle with me, so you and Ember can head to bed. Goodnight my son.”
“Goodnight dad.” Thorax nuzzled back.
Metamorphosis smiled as he trotted down the hall and re entered his room, carrying Apex with him. He thought happily of what was to come the next day. Metamorphosis was proud to be sharing this time of cheer with his sons, and eager to be at the Hive for this new holiday.
The next day, Metamorphosis woke up, and took a still asleep Apex to the cafeteria, where he found Thorax, Pharynx, Ember, and Tempest at his son’s usual table. He smiled and joined them, as Ocellus and Smolder sat down with them.
“Morning dad.” Thorax greeted, as the food arrived. He took Apex and nuzzled him. “Morning sweetie.”
“Heheh… Papa Thorax…” Apex nuzzled into him, yawning.
“Yum! Gems!” Smolder said, reaching for a bowl of them.
Ember growled playfully and swatted her away, the scepter clutched in the elder dragon’s claw gleaming slightly. Smolder backed away, letting Ember grab the gems she wanted first. Ocellus giggled softly as Smolder at last was able to get some gems.
“So, what do we do first?” Metamorphosis asked
“And does it have anything to do with that upside-down tree in the throne room?” Tempest asked with a teasing glint in her eye. Pharynx blushed.
“Aheh… we may have misread Twilight’s list of instructions…” Thorax chuckled sheepishly. “I gave it to Ocellus for her family to test out, an assignment as my student. I figured trying it out with a family would be a good test run on it before revealing it to the rest of the Hive.”
“Uh-huh. Well, I know Ocellus is not a dumb changeling by any standard, so if she was unable to comprehend the instructions then the blame may fall on Twilight being vague.” Tempest replied. “Still, I’m interested to see where the giant punch bowl comes in.”
“I’m assuming it’s like our traditional lava diving?” Ember asked
“Sort of.” Ocellus replied
“Lava diving would be more fun though…” Pharynx muttered, and Thorax nudged him.
“Well, I can’t wait to see all these traditions.” Metamorphosis said
“I can’t wait to see how badly Twilight screwed up with this list she apparently sent.” Tempest snorted in amusement.
“I thought you only called her ‘princess’?” Ember accused teasingly, jabbing a gemstone in Tempest’s direction
“I’m on break, the princess has consented to me only calling her by her name and not title when I’m off duty.” Tempest replied
“Eh, fair enough.” Ember ate the gemstone. “So what first?”
“Please say punch-diving.” Smolder mumbled
“Heh, that actually is the thing we can do immediately, the other stuff happens at night, and we need to wait while the chefs prepare the feast for lunch.” Thorax said
“Had me at feast, let’s go.” Smolder said, making some of them laugh.
The group had fun taking turns with other changelings in diving into the punch. Metamorphosis did notice it clung to his mane though, and saw Tempest having similar concerns. Her mane was now hanging down around her face, and Pharynx seemed to be affectionately teasing her about it. Soon, it was lunchtime, and Thorax gathered them in the cafeteria for the feast.
Metamorphosis sat between his sons at their usual table, each one’s respective girlfriend on their other side. He ate happily as he watched Ocellus and Smolder eat heartily, giggling and talking. Metamorphosis also smiled fondly at seeing his sons talk with their partners.
While Metamorphosis was happy to see the young love as it blossomed, in the back of his mind, he was dimly reminded of his first few years of love with Chrysalis. He hoped these relationships lasted longer and were stronger than theirs had been. His sons were good and kind, they did not deserve these relationships broken.
Soon after the feast was done, Thorax led them to the throne room for the next thing. Building a fire.
“Let me guess, instead of just setting fire to a bunch of logs… you’re going to-” Tempest broke off as she noticed some changelings with hammers and nails. “...Simultaneously exactly what I expected and yet did not predict at all.”
Thorax gave another sheepish chuckle. After the fires were ‘built’ and Tempest had had more than one laugh about the way they’d interpreted this part of Twilight’s list, the next step began. They gathered all the firefly lanterns from the hallways, with some extra so there were enough for everyone.
“Okay, this is pretty cool.” Smolder said, examining her lantern.
“And for the carols?” Tempest asked
“We’ve, uh, fixed that part.” Thorax said, helping Apex balance the lantern in his hooves. “We were originally just singing the word ‘carols’ but it got old pretty fast, so we came up with an original song.”
Tempest nodded in understanding. The group held their lanterns, the changelings around other fires doing the same. The changelings began to sing as one, only Pharynx not joining in. Metamorphosis had learned the words, and nudged his eldest son to sing along. Pharynx huffed and stayed silent.
“It's holiday time A most special season So we all gather round To remember the reason For it's not the gifts Food or decorations But the Spirit of Love That marks this celebration!
So come stand by me Sing along, soon you'll see That on this holiday We let love, light the way You’ll need nothing more Than those you adore For on this holiday We let love, light the way”
Tempest, Ember, and Smolder seemed to be getting the beat quickly. Ocellus moved closer to Smolder, carrying the next verse.
“We all have ways Of observing this winter evening But still each of us shares Something that we all believe in And what makes this one night Outshine all others Is sharing our joy with our sisters and our brothers!”
Thorax pulled Pharynx closer at this, and he grunted, but with looks from his father and brother, sighed and sang along in the next verse.
“Come sing with me And all together we'll be For on this holiday We let love light the way And in every hall, We see friends in one and all So on this holiday We’ll let love light our way.”
Tempest, Ember, and Smolder finally joined in.
Every winter, While we honor all traditions We are good to remember It's not a big competition And let love be our mission
This night outshines all others When we stand with our sisters and our brothers
So come stand by me Sing along, soon you'll see That on this holiday We let love light our way As we stand around the fire All together we are For on this holiday We let love light our way.”
Thorax and Pharynx then went to their girlfriends, while Ocellus leaned against Smolder. Metamorphosis picked up Apex, who smiled and clutched his lantern closer.
“And we need nothing more, than those we adore On this holiday We let love We let love We let love We let love We let love light our way.”
The song finished, and the changelings all cheered, launching into a pony holiday carol. Thorax and Pharynx began nuzzling their partners, and Metamorphosis chuckled. He then saw Ocellus and Smolder talking by the light from their lanterns.
“Alright, come on, let’s go exchange gifts.” Thorax said
Metamorphosis smiled at this and followed Thorax down the hall. Ember, Tempest, and Pharynx easily kept pace with the alpha changeling. Ocellus and Smolder were fast behind, both clearly eager for this part. Thorax led them to his room, where they had all stashed their gifts for each other.
Thorax and Ember snuggled together on the floor, as did Tempest and Pharynx, though Pharynx was more subtle about this. Apex sat by Thorax, waiting eagerly, tail wagging. Metamorphosis, Ocellus, and Smolder brought out the gifts before also sitting down, and passed them to the others.
“Dad, do you mind if I go first?” Thorax asked hesitantly. “I know you’re the oldest, but…”
“Go ahead Thorax.” Metamorphosis smiled softly
“Thank you.” Thorax said
“So what’s my gift?” Ember asked
Thorax smiled, and his antlers lit up, levitating two things over to Ember and clasping them around her wrists. Ember blinked and looked down at them. It was two elegantly crafted bracelets, made of sharp, purple-blue gems set in gold. They looked surprisingly fierce on her, especially when coupled with her scepter.
“Thorax, I… I love them…”
“I hope so.” Thorax nuzzled her. “I asked Rarity for help to make them.”
Ember chuckled. “That reminds me, I have a similar thing for you.” she blushed as he nuzzled her.
Ember reached into the pile of presents and drew out a strangely shaped package. She gave it to Thorax, who opened it to reveal a carved rock that resembled his antlers, with a crystal set in each one. He nuzzled her lovingly in gratitude.
“Thank you Emmie.”
“Heheh… I carved it myself…”
“It’s beautiful.”
“Great, my turn.” Pharynx said eagerly, then passed Tempest her gift. It was a piece of welded metal, shaped like a lightning bolt, which he clasped around her ear using his magic.
“Heh, I love it Pharynx, thank you.” she said, nuzzling him. Pharynx chuckled and kissed her cheek. “Now…”
Tempest used her magic to pull a long package out of the pile, and passed it to him. Pharynx unwrapped it eagerly, and gazed in awe at what it was. A sword with a blade so polished he could see his reflection in it. His initials were etched into the hilt. P E. Pharynx Elytron.
“Woah…” Pharynx murmured. For a moment, Metamorphosis saw the same excited little nymph from the desire-crystal, who had marveled at a small knife so long ago.
“Heh, now, I believe it is time for the oldest to go.” Metamorphosis chuckled, pulling out two packages from the dwindling pile.
Without further ado, Metamorphosis gave his sons their gifts, a book on war strategies for Pharynx, and a plushie of a wolf for Thorax. Pharynx thanked him, but his attention was clearly on the sword, which Metamorphosis could not fault him for.
“Heheh, thank you dad… but why a wolf?” Thorax asked, and Metamorphosis smiled.
“I know you often doubt your capabilities. This is to remind you that you will always be the alpha of the changeling pack.”
Thorax smiled softly, and cuddled the wolf before returning to hugging Ember. Apex watched eagerly, and together, Metamorphosis, Thorax, and Pharynx pushed a gift over to him. The little nymph took it eagerly and opened it, gasping. He pulled out a plushie of a wolf cub.
“Yay!”
“Heh, now I understand why you two wanted to get the wolf cub.” Thorax laughed, looking between his father and brother, who smiled knowingly. Apex giggled and snuggled against Thorax, holding the plushie close.
Metamorphosis chuckled, then his eyes widened slightly as Thorax and Pharynx levitated a gift over to him. He took it, smiling at them.
“You know you didn’t have to get me anything.” he told them. Thorax just smiled.
“Open it, dad. You’ll understand.”
Metamorphosis smiled, then opened the gift. He gasped softly as he saw what was inside. A few old, worn-looking wood dolls of changelings, and a small blade with a deep blue hilt. He lifted them out, eyes wide. They were the same things that he’d seen in the memories. He looked up at his sons, and they smiled at him.
“We thought about what you said, about wishing you could’ve been there to watch us grow up…” Thorax began. “So we decided the next best thing…”
“Would be giving you the only things we actually treasure from the Old Days. My first blade and Thorax’s favorite toys.” Pharynx finished
Metamorphosis beamed, tears in his eyes as he looked down at the dolls and the blade. “Thank you boys…”
Thorax moved closer and hugged him. “We love you dad.” he murmured
“I love you too, both of you.” Metamorphosis said, hugging back.
Metamorphosis set the toys and blade back in the box, keeping it near him. Finally, the attention turned to Smolder and Ocellus.
“I… I kind of want to go last…” Smolder said, suddenly shy and blushing.
“O-Okay…” Ocellus picked up her gift. “I… I’ve been noticing how frequently you check out one specific book from the school library, Smolder, and…” she passed over the package.
Smolder’s eyes widened as she tore off the wrapping. Within it was a book, the cover seemed to be a pale pink. Ocellus continued speaking.
“I thought… well, seeing that you check it out over and over, I figured it might be getting suspicious for Headmare Twilight if she were to notic-eep!”
Ocellus squealed as Smolder tackled her, the book falling to the floor as she caught Ocellus in a tight embrace and began nuzzling her. Ocellus giggled and blushed as she nuzzled Smolder back.
“Oh Celly, yes, I love you!” Smolder shouted, then blushed as she realized what she’d said.
Ocellus giggled and stroked the dragon’s cheek with a hoof. “I love you too Smoldie.”
Metamorphosis, curious, picked up the book. He set it down in the middle of the partial circle they had formed. The title was The Duke and the Tailor, the cover depicting a unicorn colt in a fine suit being measured by a unicorn filly, while in the background was the white silhouette of a mare in a dress that bore uncannily similar features to the colt.
Opening to a few of the pages it was clear it was a graphic novel, as Metamorphosis had heard this genre described. It showed the colt and filly interacting, and the colt himself surprisingly wearing some extremely well-crafted and beautiful gowns. Apex stepped closer and turned the page, staring in awe at the large drawing of the colt in one of the dresses.
“Smolder, you… read about dresses?” Ember asked, and Smolder sat up, blushing.
Ember nodded in understanding, passing the book to her. Apex whined, but Thorax pulled him close and gave him the wolf cub plush again. Ember smiled at the nymph before looking to Smolder. “Don’t worry. I won’t say anything.”
“Thank you Dragon Lordess…” Smolder breathed, then looked at Ocellus. “I… guess that kind of makes my gift to you more reasonable…” she picked up her gift, which was in a box.
Ocellus took the box from Smolder, lifting off the lid. She gasped softly as she saw what was inside, and levitated it out with her magic. An ornate, sparkling tiara. It was made of silver, with twisting and weaving metal that formed intricate spirals, meeting in the center to hold a beautiful, dangling blue crystal shaped like a teardrop. Smolder reached and took it from Ocellus’ magic, placing it gently on her head.
“Y-You’re always going to be my queen, Celly.” Smolder whispered. “My princess.” Ocellus hugged her tightly.
“I-I love you so much Smoldie.” Ocellus murmured, before Smolder pulled her close and they kissed.
Metamorphosis smiled, happy the two young ones had confessed their love at last. He hoped nothing but the best for their relationship in the future. Metamorphosis looked around at the group, Ember and Thorax now cuddling with Apex at their side, Tempest and Pharynx admiring their gifts, and the new young couple exchanging whispered affections. He smiled, knowing it had been a great way to spend his first Hearth’s Warming.
Metamorphosis smiled as he wandered through the Hive. The weather was warming up at last, and the snow had begun to melt. This, of course, also meant a few rain showers, but now that the cold was leaving and the changelings were more alert, they could deal with these. A coming storm was actually the reason Metamorphosis was heading for one room in particular.
He ducked under some low hanging vines that resembled a curtain, smiling softly as he stood outside the entrance to the room. “Ocellus?”
“Metamorphosis! Come in, please!” Ocellus’ voice called from within the room.
Metamorphosis entered the room. Ocellus was still at the Hive for the winter holidays. Smolder had returned home to the Dragonlands with Ember, to see her family. Ocellus was lying on her bed, reading.
“Heh, hello Ocellus.” Metamorphosis trotted closer and nuzzled her.
“What are you doing in here?” the young changeling asked “N-Not that I’m not glad to see you.”
“I know, it’s nice to see you too. I’m just checking in on you, there’s a storm coming, if you didn’t realize.” Metamorphosis nodded at the darkening skies.
“Oh, I was so invested in my book I didn’t notice.” Ocellus said, glancing out the window.
“Heh, I could tell.” Metamorphosis sat on the floor beside the bed. “But while I’m here… is everything alright with your parents?”
Ocellus frowned and her ears drooped. “I don’t know…”
“I was afraid that you’d say that. Honestly I’d been noticing signs for a while.” Metamorphosis said, frowning. He rose and put a foreleg over her. “Would you like to talk with me about it?”
“It’s just…” Ocellus whispered. “They’ve been so distant, a-and they don’t say goodnight to me anymore, or even to Capillarie and Scorpia. I’m worried… i-it’s like they’re casting aside the love we have in our family.”
“Oh Ocellus…” Metamorphosis hugged her. “It’s okay, little one.”
Ocellus rubbed her eyes. “I-I wouldn’t be surprised if they d-don’t even help Capillarie and Scorpia when the storm hits. Th-They only stay with them long enough for mom to give them her nectar, since they’re still too little to eat other foods. A-And they’re scared of storms…”
“It’s alright Ocellus. Capillarie and Scorpia are safe and sound in the nursery.” Metamorphosis nuzzled her. “They will be comforted by the nursery caretakers and their fellow younglings.”
Ocellus nodded in silent agreement, cuddling against him. Metamorphosis smiled softly. He knew he could not fix the problems with her parents, only her parents themselves would be able to fix their mistakes. But… perhaps he could offer her a way to escape the hurting, temporarily.
“And you will be safe and sound with us.” Metamorphosis continued, and she looked up.
“Y-You mean…?”
“Mhm. Ocellus, would you like to join me and my sons during the storm?” Metamorphosis offered
“Y-Yes, I’d like that… thank you Metamorphosis…” Ocellus said “C-Could I bring my book?”
“Of course. I’m sure Thorax and Pharynx won’t mind.” he chuckled
Ocellus smiled and picked up her book. Metamorphosis waited for her, then led her out as the thunder began to rumble across the skies.
Metamorphosis led her through the hallway to Thorax’s room.
“You know, Ocellus, this offer isn’t just for today.” Metamorphosis said, looking down at her.
“I-It isn’t?”
“Of course not. You are Thorax’s student, and even if you weren’t, we would not turn you down if you needed something. If you ever want to spend time with us, you just have to ask.”
“Okay Metamorphosis. Thank you…” Ocellus said, hugging her book to her chest as they walked into Thorax’s room.
Thorax was curled up on the bed, looking out the window. Apex was asleep, cuddled up to Thorax’s chest. Pharynx was lying on his stomach beside him, head resting on his crossed forelegs. Metamorphosis smiled and led Ocellus to them.
“Oh, dad, there you are.” Thorax said, looking up, then smiled when he saw Ocellus. “And you brought Ocellus!”
“H-Hi Thorax… M-Metamorphosis said I could stay here with you…” Ocellus said nervously, and Metamorphosis smiled at her softly.
“Oh, well, he’s right, of course you can. Come here.” Thorax urged kindly
Ocellus trotted forwards, then crawled into the bed. She curled up in between Thorax’s forelegs, and Apex shifted to make room for her, sighing softly in content. Ocellus opened her book to where she had left off. Metamorphosis settled down in the bed beside Pharynx, nosing him in slight concern.
“Pharynx? Are you okay?”
“Mhm… ge’ off dad… ‘m sleeping…” Pharynx mumbled
“Heh, don’t mind him dad, he likes sleeping during rainstorms.” Thorax explained, rubbing Pharynx’s head. “Don’t you cuddlebug?”
“Sh-Shuddap snugglebug.” Pharynx grunted, opening his eyes and leaning against Thorax. It was then that he noticed Ocellus. “O-Oh… uh… d-don’t you dare tell anyone about that nickname, Ocellus. Either nickname.”
“Okay Pharynx, I won’t.” Ocellus promised, then looked back down at her book.
Pharynx sighed and smiled as he settled back down. Metamorphosis nuzzled him and he grunted before rolling onto his side. The rain had begun to fall, and the room’s atmosphere quickly turned cozy and comforting.
“So, Ocellus, what are you reading?” Metamorphosis asked, trying to make conversation.
“Oh, a new book my classmate lent me. It’s about a girl in a high school that’s extremely sexist, and she’s standing up against it.” Ocellus explained
“Sounds interesting.”
“Mhm.” Ocellus said
“Would you mind reading it to us?” Thorax asked gently
“Um… well… it’s got a lot of… curse words in it, Thorax…” Ocellus explained, blushing.
“Oh. Heheh… nevermind…” Thorax nuzzled her. “Enjoy the book though.”
“Okay.” Ocellus nuzzled him back, then looked down at the book.
Metamorphosis smiled around at them. Thorax was content to sit and stare out the window, watching the rain as it fell outside. Ocellus was calm and clearly happy, reading her book while curled up by Thorax and Apex. Pharynx napped peacefully beside the two changelings, his hooves reaching out to wrap around his brother’s side and cuddle closer. And he himself, laying beside Pharynx and watching over them like only a father could. Metamorphosis smiled. Even though Ocellus wasn’t related to them, lying here together, they really seemed to be like a little family. And this family was perfect.
It had been a few months, and it was now late spring. Ocellus had returned to school, and would be coming home in a few more months for summer break. Metamorphosis was sitting beside Thorax’s throne, talking with his youngest son. Thorax kept pausing to smile and wave at passing changelings, but Metamorphosis didn’t mind. Then, his ears pricked. Arguing.
“Thorax, do you hear-”
“For the last time, no!” Pharynx’s raised voice entered the room. “I don’t need to hear any more of your dumb ideas, Oculus! Now get lost!”
Thorax and Metamorphosis sighed, watching the door in anticipation. Pharynx stormed in, Oculus and Pupae behind him.
“Thorax, help me out here!”
“Running to your little brother for help? I thought you were better than that.” Pupae said
Pharynx whipped around and snarled, lowering himself into a battle stance. “I’m asking him to help me deal with you two because he’s the King. And if you’re not going to listen to me, your prince, then I might as well get Thorax to stop you.”
“Calm down Pharynx.” Thorax urged, and he huffed, stalking over to stand opposite Metamorphosis. “Now, Oculus, Pupae, what is it?”
“Your majesty, is the information we’ve heard correct that there is a town on the outskirts of the Hive?” Oculus asked
“Yes, it’s called Asutora.” Thorax said, face scrunching in confusion at the question. “Why?”
“That pony town is a bit too close for comfort, don’t you think?” Pupae said
“What? No.” Thorax rose. “Of course not. We’re close allies of the Equestrians, and that town is no exception. Pharynx, dad, and I have even met their mayor before, Galectic Dust. He and his sister Sunrise Cinder, his advisor, are good, kind ponies.”
“But if we allow them to continue getting close to us, they could launch an attack!” Oculus protested
“What? They would never!” Thorax exclaimed
“You’re too naive, King Thorax, you need to learn to think!” Pupae hissed “Besides, we need to gain more territory for our next generation. Luckily, Oculus and I have been drawing up plans all winter, and we think we have an effective strategy.”
Metamorphosis’ eyes widened. “Is this why they’ve been neglecting their children? Attack strategies?”
“Alright, enough.” Pharynx stalked forwards. “Those ponies are no threat, we have enough territory already, and attacking the town could cause them to lose trust in us.”
“I agree with my sons.” Metamorphosis added. “There’s no need to take any action at the moment.”
“Yes. Now go back to your little nymphs and don’t bring this up again.” Pharynx growled
Pupae huffed and turned, stalking away. Oculus turned his nose up at Pharynx and followed Pupae. Pharynx rolled his eyes.
“Glad that’s over.” Pharynx muttered
“I’m glad Apex is in the nursery…” Thorax murmured, squeaking as Pharynx sent a glare at him.
“Still, they’re gone and they’re not going to bother us with that ridiculous plan again.”
“I wouldn’t be too sure, my son.” Metamorphosis said, watching the doors where Pupae and Oculus had left. “When a mind is unwaveringly set on one goal it cannot be easily dissuaded.”
“Whatever. As long as they’re not bothering me anymore.” Pharynx grunted. “Worse than a crack in the carapace… if you two need me I’ll be taking a shower.”
“Okay then Pharynx.” Thorax said dully as he left. Metamorphosis noticed Thorax looked a bit worn out.
“Thorax, how about you and I go spend some time with Apex and the other nymphs?” Metamorphosis suggested softly. “They love seeing you.”
“I guess… I haven’t been able to visit the nursery in a while…” Thorax brightened.
“Heheh, let’s go then.” Metamorphosis said, nuzzling his son.
When Thorax and Metamorphosis got to the nursery, they found many of them napping. Thorax smiled, picking his way carefully around a cluster of three little nymphs cuddled together, asleep. One of the nymphs was Apex, the others were two familiar unreformed ones a bit older than Apex. Thorax gently rubbed the heads of the nymphs in the small huddle before moving away, letting them nap.
“Papa Thorax!” Capillarie and Scorpia had spotted them. They were leading the nymph Metamorphosis had seen months before, Viorel. His friend was also beside them as they walked over to them.
“Heh, hello little ones.” Thorax said, lifting up Capillarie. “Where are your parents, you two?”
“They said they’d be back soon.” Capillarie replied, wrapping his forelegs around Thorax. “Will you play with us instead?”
“Yeah! Play Papa Thorax, play!” Scorpia added, bouncing up and down.
Metamorphosis chuckled, leaving Thorax to be surrounded by eager nymphs. He then lifted up Viorel and nuzzled him.
“Hello Viorel, do you remember me?”
“Mhm.” Viorel nuzzled him.
“Who’s your friend?” Metamorphosis asked, looking at the rosy pink colored nymph.
“O-Oleander.” Viorel replied, the other nymph waving.
“Heh, hello Oleander.” Metamorphosis picked him up as well. “Do you two want to play?”
“Okay!” Oleander said happily. Viorel smiled and nodded.
Metamorphosis set the two nymphs down, letting them run for a bit before following, trying to catch the younglings.
An hour or so later, Metamorphosis and Thorax were curled up in the soft moss of the nursery. They were surrounded by sleeping nymphs. Metamorphosis chuckled as he nuzzled Viorel, who was sleeping at his hooves. Thorax leaned against him.
“Heh, are you feeling a bit more relaxed?” Metamorphosis asked his son.
“Mhm… thanks dad… for suggesting this…” Thorax murmured, closing his eyes. Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled him.
“Thorax!” Pharynx raced in, then noticed the nymphs surrounding the two.
“Pharynx? What’s wrong?” Metamorphosis asked, he and Thorax rising, careful not to disturb the nymphs.
“Galectic Dust and his sister are outside.” Pharynx whispered “They look mad.”
“Oh no… what do you think could be-” Thorax broke off when he saw the look on his brother’s face. “No… they wouldn’t…”
“They would.” Pharynx retorted
“Calm down you two, we don’t know for sure.” Metamorphosis stepped in. “Let’s just go see what Galectic wants.”
The two brothers looked over at their father, then nodded. They headed out of the nursery, Thorax leading the way. They exited the Hive, seeing the two ponies. Galectic Dust was a unicorn with a gray coat, purple-blue mane and deep purple eyes. His sister, Sunrise Cinder, was standing beside him. She was a unicorn with a white coat, a mane striped in purple, orange, and yellow, as well as the same dark purple eyes as her brother. Galectic looked mad, while Sunrise seemed afraid.
“King Thorax.” Galectic stalked towards him with an angry glare. “Would you care to explain why two of your subjects just tried to attack us?”
“What?!” Thorax exclaimed “I had no idea, Galectic, I’m so sorry, please, take me to them.”
Galectic nodded, he and Sunrise turning and galloping back to their town. Thorax, Pharynx, and Metamorphosis followed fast behind.
“It was Oculus and Pupae, it had to be.” Pharynx said as they neared the town.
“I hate to admit it but I think you’re right…” Thorax said, looking down at the ground.
“I’m always right!”
“This is not about you being right, Pharynx! If it was them, that means they disobeyed me.” Thorax explained. “And you know I’m not good at punishing ‘lings…”
“I’ll handle that part.” Pharynx said, giving a slight smirk as they entered the town. “I’ve been wanting to make Oculus pay ever since he and Pupae started calling me weak…”
Metamorphosis looked up, hearing Galectic and Sunrise gasp. His eyes widened.
“Son… I don’t think you’ll be able to punish them.” Metamorphosis breathed
“What do you mean da-” Pharynx broke off as he and Thorax also saw it.
A Pegasus in a military outfit was facing a few ponies in police uniforms. She seemed to be berating them. The reason behind her lecturing was not hard to spot. Two bodies, lying in the middle of the street, eyes blank but mouths upturned in snarls. Oculus, and his mate Pupae.
Sunrise gasped and covered her mouth in shock. Thorax, Pharynx, and Metamorphosis ran to the changelings. Gashes were along their sides and carapace. Metamorphosis looked at his sons to avoid seeing the lifeless bodies. Thorax’s expression was of sheer, stricken horror. Pharynx’s face was expressionless, but Metamorphosis could taste shock and anger coming off him.
“Moondrop! What is the meaning of this?!” Galectic asked, voice rising in panic.
The Pegasus turned. She had a bright blue coat and dark black mane with electric blue streaks in it. Her silver eyes showed nothing but remorse.
“I’m so sorry Mayor Dust. I know your orders are to detain all enemies, but the guards had different ideas, they attacked before I could issue commands.” Moondrop bowed. “I am so sorry your highness, this was not what I would have preferred.”
Thorax didn’t respond, Metamorphosis realized he was still slightly shocked. Pharynx also said nothing. Metamorphosis stepped forward.
“It’s alright, Moondrop, was it? I know this was not your fault. But please condition your guards better in the future.” Metamorphosis said, moving forwards and lifting up Oculus’ body.
Pharynx snapped out of his stunned state, then sighed. He walked over and lifted Pupae up, setting her on his back. Thorax recovered at last, giving a polite nod to the mayor, though he was clearly on the verge of tears. Metamorphosis led them away quickly, and stopped once they were somewhere between the town and the Hive.
“Let it out Thorax. It’s okay.” Metamorphosis whispered
Thorax fell onto his haunches and began sobbing. Metamorphosis lifted Oculus off his back, laying him gently in the grass. Pharynx did the same with Pupae. The two then went to comfort Thorax.
“T-Two l-lives gone… b-because of a stupid decision and us not listening!” Thorax sobbed, and Metamorphosis rubbed his back.
“We listened, Thorax, and we advised. They just chose to ignore it.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “This is not your fault, I know it is easy to blame yourself, but you don’t have to.”
“And we’ll send them off with a warriors’ ceremony.” Pharynx added. “Even though it’s probably more than they deserve…”
“N-No, you don’t understand… P-Pupae and Oculus threw away more than just their lives going into that fight…” Thorax sobbed. “They… they also risked…”
“Capillarie and Scorpia’s…” Metamorphosis realized.
“Th-They’re too young to survive without Pupae’s nectar!” Thorax cried. “A-And there are no other nymphs young enough to have mothers who can supply them with it!”
Metamorphosis and Pharynx had no response to this. They could only sit beside Thorax in silent comfort, trying not to look at the bodies beside them.
When the trio bore the bodies back home, the Hive was in shock. Metamorphosis couldn’t blame them. Oculus and Pupae had been well known among the Hive, and despite their attitude to Pharynx, they were good changelings. The Hive began preparing for the burial ceremony, though they did so in silence. Barely talking to one another, speaking only in dull voices to ask questions.
Thorax was not exempt from this. He slouched on his throne in the day, and slept fitfully at night. Metamorphosis hated to see Thorax like this as he cried for days. Metamorphosis and Pharynx did their best to comfort him, but it was hard, knowing he was right to be upset.
“Ph-Pharynx…?” Thorax spoke at last, looking up at Pharynx, wiping his eyes. “C-Can you go get Capillarie and Scorpia…?”
Pharynx nodded and headed out. Metamorphosis nuzzled Thorax.
“Will you be okay to talk with them?”
“I have to be.” Thorax murmured, straightening up.
“Thorax…” Metamorphosis nuzzled him, then smiled softly and cupped his hoof to Thorax’s cheek. “You are so brave, my son. And strong. Perhaps not in the same way as Pharynx, but still in a way that makes you a perfect ruler.”
“Thanks dad…” Thorax whispered
“Thorax.” Pharynx entered, Scorpia and Capillarie riding on his back. As he neared them, he lowered his voice. “They were too weak to walk here.” he murmured in a worried tone.
Thorax nodded in understanding, taking the nymphs from Pharynx. “Hello Capillarie, Scorpia. How are you doing?”
“G-Good, Papa Thorax…” Scorpia said, smiling
“Hungry…” Capillarie added
“Mhm. Mommy usually gives us nectar…” Scorpia said quietly.
“I know.” Thorax nuzzled her. “Believe me, we’re trying our best to get nectar for you two.”
“Th-Thank you Papa Thorax…” Capillarie hugged him
“For the time being…” Thorax set them down. “Why don’t you go back to the nursery? I’ll be getting word to your sister soon, so she’ll be here in a few days.”
“Celly’s coming home? Yay!” Scorpia said
Capillarie smiled, and Scorpia trotted off, leading her brother out of the throne room and back towards the nursery. Metamorphosis hoped the love Thorax had shared had given them enough energy to make it back to the nursery on their own. He needed to speak with his sons.
“Thorax… they… they’re not going to make it.” Metamorphosis murmured. Thorax jumped slightly.
“No dad! They-They can’t!” Thorax exclaimed, letting a few tears fall again. “They have to live. They’re a part of the next generation of changelings.”
Metamorphosis nodded. “I know. But sometimes, fate has other ideas.”
Thorax let out a sob, and collapsed down into his throne. Pharynx and Metamorphosis put their hooves around him, offering silent comfort.
Soon, it had been a week since the death of Oculus and Pupae. The shock and grief had worn off a little. With Thorax feeling stronger and less upset, it was time to prepare for the warrior burial ceremony.
Metamorphosis and Thorax were discussing the funeral arrangements with Sillia and Tibius in the throne room. That was when Pharynx came bursting in. Metamorphosis tasted worry and fear coming from him. Without Pharynx needing to speak a word, Metamorphosis knew what it was. Only one current situation could get Pharynx to panic like this when bringing them news.
“Thorax!” Pharynx stopped in front of them, eyes wide. “Capillarie and Scorpia are in the infirmary!”
Sillia and Tibius took this as a signal to leave, nodding politely to the leaders before rushing off. Metamorphosis assumed they would spread the word, but he was more focused on what Pharynx had announced. Capillarie and Scorpia were strong nymphs, if they were in the infirmary, it could only mean one thing.
“I was afraid of this… they’ve grown too weak.” Metamorphosis murmured. Thorax’s ears pricked and his eyes widened. He had heard him.
“What?! No! We've been trying so hard, I thought they were getting stronger!” Thorax exclaimed, rushing out of the throne room. Metamorphosis and Pharynx were fast behind. “Pharynx, where’s Apex?”
“He’s napping with Zen and Hero, don’t worry, he didn’t see it.” Pharynx assured the frantic king, then glanced at Metamorphosis, adding in an undertone, “Dad, what if we’re too late…?”
“We have to hope we aren’t Pharynx, Thorax would never be able to handle it otherwise.” Metamorphosis replied in an equally low voice.
And Metamorphosis did hope. He prayed to the Equestrian princesses that the nymphs would be alright, that his son's efforts would not go to waste. They had been doing so well, and Thorax had been trying so hard to find a changeling female who was still nursing her own nymphs, that might provide Scorpia and Capillarie with the lifegiving nectar. He had even sent a message to Twilight Sparkle, but her research had, for once, turned up nothing.
Deep down, Metamorphosis had known it would be pointless. It wouldn’t make a difference. He had seen similar things to this before. The nymphs were far too weak. But still, he had hoped the nymphs would live, he doubted either of his sons would be able to handle it if they didn't. However, it was inevitable. Metamorphosis at least hoped for a painless death for them.
They made it to the infirmary and rushed for Scorpia and Capillarie. The two were lying in the same large bed. Capillarie was resting, but Scorpia was awake.
“Scorpia…” Thorax whispered
“P-Papa Thorax…” Scorpia whispered, as Capillarie sat up. Both nymphs were trembling and sweating, weak without nectar.
“I’m so sorry little ones, don’t worry, we’re going to fix this.” Thorax promised, but Metamorphosis could tell he was unsure. He knew Pharynx and the nymphs could tell too.
“P-Papa Thorax, it’s okay.” Capillarie nosed him with a sad smile. “I-I knew we were gonna see mommy and daddy again soon… I know because I dreamed of it…”
“W-We were in a big field… they were leading us to golden gates with clouds beyond it… Ocellus wasn’t with us… but I wasn’t sad. I knew she shouldn’t be there, and that she was safe…” Capillarie continued
“I-It’s not gonna be that scary, right?” Scorpia asked quietly.
“Like falling asleep.” Capillarie replied, which seemed to comfort her.
“No… no, you don’t have to… you shouldn’t have to learn what it’s like…” Thorax stammered.
“But Papa Thorax, we’re going so we can be happy.” Capillarie murmured, coughing slightly.
“No… you are happy… you don’t need to go…” Thorax lifted up Capillarie and cradled him. Capillarie coughed and leaned against him.
“I-It’s okay Papa Thorax… we’ll be even happier there… I-I’ll s-see you there sissy…” Capillarie mumbled, closing his eyes.
“Bye Cappie…” Scorpia whispered, lying down.
“No! Capillarie, stay awake, please! Don’t close your… eyes…” Thorax began crying, his tears dripping onto the nymph’s body. But Capillarie didn’t move. He breathed no more.
“P-Papa Thorax…?” Scorpia sat up slightly. “C-Can you hold me? P-Please…? I-I want you to hold me…”
“O-Of course I can Scorpia…” Thorax murmured.
Pharynx and Metamorphosis moved closer as Thorax laid Capillarie down on the bed, then lifted Scorpia up into his hooves. Thorax pulled Scorpia close, crying as he held her. She began talking, softly.
“Thank you Papa Thorax… I-I wanted you to hold me, s-so I’ll feel warm before I go…”
“Scorpia… no, don’t say that…”
“B-But it’s true… I-I just wish… I could’ve seen Ocellus again… one last time…” Scorpia whispered “But I hope… she doesn’t join us for a long while…”
“Oh, no Scorpia… no…” Thorax pulled her close. “Y-You will see her again… y-you’re going to have a long, happy life.”
“Papa Thorax… s-some stuff just isn’t meant to happen… at least, I guess…” Scorpia coughed up some remnants of slime, her body was failing from lack of nutrition. “I… I know you’ll take care of sissy though… you’re the best kind we’ve ever had… g-goodbye Papa Thorax… I love you…”
Then, with one final breath, Scorpia was still. Thorax let out a wail and Metamorphosis reached out, hugging him. Pharynx pressed closer.
“They’re safe now, Thorax. They will never know pain, cold, or hunger again. They’re finally at peace.” Metamorphosis whispered. “They’re in Elysium with their parents, watching over us all.”
Thorax nodded and looked down at the two nymphs, still crying. Unlike their parent’s final expressions of hate and anger, the young, innocent nymphs were smiling. They had gone peacefully. Thorax sobbed harder and reached out, lifting them both up, cradling them as he cried.
Metamorphosis pulled away from Thorax slightly, giving him some space. He put a foreleg around Pharynx instead, drawing him close. Death was a harsh fact of life, and Metamorphosis knew it was one that did not come easy. However, it was also a lesson he knew everyone had to learn eventually. Even leaders of kingdoms. His sons were no exception.
“Dad… what are we going to tell Ocellus…?” Pharynx asked quietly, leaning on Metamorphosis as they watched Thorax cry over the nymphs.
Metamorphosis could not find a response. He merely hugged his son tightly, fighting back tears. Pharynx nuzzled against him, burying his head into his father’s shoulder.
Metamorphosis sighed heavily. He could feel Pharynx, the toughest changeling in the Hive, crying into his shoulder. Metamorphosis released a few tears of his own as he watched Thorax holding the nymph’s lifeless bodies close. He began sobbing as he finally answered his son’s question, holding Pharynx tighter as he did.
“She’s not gonna like this…” Pharynx muttered, pacing around in front of Thorax.
They were outside the Hive. Thorax was standing at the entryway. Metamorphosis was standing beside his youngest son, watching Pharynx with slight concern. The beta changeling seemed worried, and Metamorphosis could tell his defense instincts were kicking in. He wanted to protect Ocellus from the truth, to stop her from getting upset.
“I know she won’t, but it’s not like we can’t tell her about this… she would find out eventually…” Thorax replied in a soft voice. “It would be better for her to hear it from us. P-Please just go get her Pharynx…”
“I will Thorax…” Pharynx lifted into the air. “And bro…?”
“Y-Yeah…?”
“Do what you need to to calm down before we get back, Thor. I… I think it would be best if you talked with her in the throne room, and you should probably be as calm as possible…”
Thorax nodded in understanding. With that, Pharynx flew away. Metamorphosis, who stood beside his youngest son, put a hoof on his shoulder.
“Come on Thorax. Do you want to go rest for a bit before Pharynx returns?” Metamorphosis suggested. “Or go to the nursery? Apex should be awake by now.”
Thorax took a breath. “No, I’m okay, dad…”
“Thorax?”
“I’m the King, dad. I have to be okay. I have to be strong for the Hive. For Ocellus.” Thorax looked at the throne when they entered the throne room.
“Alright my son.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I’m very proud of you.”
“Thank you dad.” Thorax smiled at him softly, sitting down on the throne. Metamorphosis sat down beside the throne, waiting beside him.
Pharynx entered the throne room about an hour later. Ocellus was beside him. Metamorphosis glanced at Thorax in concern. He seemed nervous.
“Thorax, we’re back.” Thorax gulped and stood up. Pharynx joined Metamorphosis, the two elder changelings flanking the youngest.
“Ocellus…”
“Thorax… I don’t understand, why did you send Pharynx to get me?” Ocellus asked
“Something… has happened to your parents…” Thorax said slowly.
“W-What?! A-Are they okay?!” Ocellus asked frantically
Thorax looked away, tears beginning to fall. “N-No… you see, they… they provoked a fight with a nearby town… they died almost a week ago, a-and your siblings… without Pupae’s nectar they lasted a week, but…”
Ocellus’ eyes filled with tears. “N-No… Th-Thorax, p-please tell me this is a joke…”
“I really wish it was, Ocellus…” he murmured
Ocellus raced forward and hugged Thorax, beginning to cry. Thorax held her tight.
“Your siblings… they were very brave, Ocellus.” Thorax murmured, his own tears falling. “They said goodbye, and didn’t seem to be in any pain… they… they accepted their… their fate, peacefully. S-Scorpia said she wished she could have seen you again…”
Ocellus sobbed harder, and Metamorphosis rubbed her back in comfort.
“H-Have you… have you buried them yet…?” Ocellus asked in a low voice.
“We will tomorrow.” Thorax replied. Pharynx stepped forward.
“We’re arranging a warrior’s burial ceremony, Ocellus. The highest honor, you know that. They… they may not exactly deserve it, but… they faced their deaths bravely… they’ve earned it.” Pharynx spoke. Ocellus suddenly pulled away, wiping her eyes.
“O-Okay… I just… I need to be alone…” Ocellus said, voice breaking
“Of course Ocellus.” Thorax nuzzled her. “You can stay here in the Hive for as long as you need, I asked Pharynx to clear it with Twilight.”
“S-So you… told her…?”
“No.” Thorax nuzzled her. “I assumed you’d prefer the news be shared with them when you were ready. Pharynx just told her it was an emergency, and that you needed to remain at the Hive for the time being.”
Ocellus nodded, backing away. She sniffled, rubbing her eyes to wipe away the tears. The young changeling then turned and raced out of the throne room. Thorax wiped his eyes, still crying. He slumped back down into his throne.
“I messed up…” Thorax mumbled
“No you didn’t Thorax.” Metamorphosis soothed.
“Yes I did… she’s heartbroken, dad…”
“You did the best you could, Thorax. We have all had over a week to come to terms with Oculus and Pupae being gone. Ocellus has only just been told. Give her some time.”
Thorax nodded, though he still stared after Ocellus. Metamorphosis helped him stand from the throne.
“Come on son, I think you need to lie down.”
“Y-Yeah… alright dad…”
Together, Metamorphosis and Pharynx escorted Thorax back to his room, stopping to get Apex from the nursery. Thorax didn’t protest, merely trotted between them, seeming numb to everything going on around him. They reached Thorax’s room fairly quickly, and Pharynx guided Thorax to his bed while Metamorphosis looked on.
However, as Thorax laid down, and Apex jumped into the bed to cuddle with him, Metamorphosis’ mind was elsewhere. He couldn’t stop worrying about Ocellus, and he could tell by the look in Pharynx’s eyes that he felt the same. Thorax seemed to have similar concerns, he was struggling to fall asleep.
Metamorphosis laid a hoof on Thorax’s shoulder, nuzzling him. Thorax closed his eyes as his father began stroking his head soothingly. Soon, the alpha changeling was in a fitful sleep, hooves tight around Apex as if to ensure the nymph wouldn’t leave. Pharynx cautiously sat down on the bed beside them, clearly on edge, ready to get up if needed. Metamorphosis watched him sadly. Pharynx was expecting Ocellus to need one of them, and was ready to respond to it. Metamorphosis sighed softly.
“Come on Pharynx. There’s not much we can do for Ocellus right now.” Metamorphosis said, gesturing for Pharynx to lie down.
“A-Are you sure…?” Pharynx asked, tensing.
“Yes. We told her what needed to be said and provided comfort. We must give her time to grieve on her own. Right now, it is Thorax that needs our help the most. Okay?” Metamorphosis said, looking at the king. “Just stay with your brother, Pharynx. He needs you.”
Pharynx hesitated, then nodded, lying down. He obeyed his father silently, cuddling up to Thorax. Metamorphosis joined them, hearing Thorax mumbling in his sleep. He wrapped a hoof over Pharynx to bring him closer and nuzzled Thorax. Once he had ensured that his sons were in a more or less peaceful sleep, Metamorphosis was finally able to close his eyes. Slowly, he slipped into the black, seeking the peace of a dream.
Metamorphosis opened his eyes a while later, looking outside. It was early morning, the three changelings had slept through the night. He sighed and stood, doing his best not to disturb his sons. Thorax shifted and clutched Pharynx closer. Apex was curled up by his head, forelegs wrapped loosely around the king’s antlers. Metamorphosis, sure that they’d be alright, left the room.
He trotted down the empty hallway, letting his hooves lead him somewhere unknown. He found himself heading for Ocellus’ room, and opened the door with a heavy heart. He found Ocellus sleeping on the floor, surrounded by books and notepads. Metamorphosis leaned down and nosed her slightly.
“M-Mom…?”
“No Ocellus, it's me, I'm sorry…” Metamorphosis said, and she opened her eyes. Ocellus sat up slightly, her ears folding back as she realized it wasn't her mother Pupae, but Thorax and Pharynx's father.
“Oh… hi Metamorphosis… is it time for…?” Ocellus trailed off, unable to say the words.
“No, it will happen in the evening.” Metamorphosis told her, giving her a gentle nuzzle.
Ocellus nodded and stood up. “I… I think I’m going to go outside… for a walk.”
“Alright. Be safe.” Metamorphosis hugged her, then let her go. Ocellus nodded and grabbed her saddlebags, stuffing a book or two into the bags before leaving the room.
Metamorphosis sighed as he watched her go, then left the room himself. He turned right, heading towards the throne room so that someone from the royal family would be there if the other changelings woke up before Thorax and Pharynx. It would be best for them to have a reassurance at least one member of their royalty was there, even if it was someone who had directly stated he wouldn't allow them to feel as though he had an authority over them. Not that it mattered. They needed guidance and someone to look to for reassurance, not orders.
Everyling in the Hive knew about what was to occur that night, and the negative emotions could be felt throughout the Hive. Thorax had had to leave the Hive multiple times to take a breath of fresh air. Many other changelings followed his lead, lest they end up vomiting due to the sick feeling negative emotions left on most changeling's tongues. Only Pharynx seemed immune to the effects, though Metamorphosis couldn't quite see this as necessarily a good thing.
Metamorphosis noticed that many changelings that passed Ocellus in the hall nuzzled and hugged her in comfort. He could tell by the emotions Ocellus gave off that she was grateful, but that she’d rather be alone. Unfortunately, everywhere she went, there were changelings there to provide words of comfort. Upon a later round of the Hive with Pharynx, Metamorphosis didn't see her, and figured she must have retreated to her room again.
Soon, it was evening. Metamorphosis joined Pharynx in getting Ocellus. Sure enough, she was in her room, once again surrounded by books and notebooks. She was staring at them blankly, seeming lost in her own thoughts, though she looked up when they came in.
“Ocellus, come with us.” Pharynx said, beckoning to her.
“Where are we going…?” Ocellus asked
“It's time. You need to come stand beside us during...” Pharynx trailed off in his explanation, but Ocellus seemed to understand.
Ocellus whimpered a little, but took a breath and nodded. She stayed silent after that, not questioning Pharynx or Metamorphosis as they led her. When they reached Thorax outside the Hive, he was standing before a crowd consisting of the entire Hive. Pharynx sighed as they joined the king, and turned to Tibius, who was beside Thorax. Pharynx took a crossbow Tibius presented to him, and Tibius bowed to them before joining the crowd.
“Where’s Apex?” Ocellus asked aloud, glancing at the older changelings.
“He’s with the Fangs.” Pharynx replied, examining the crossbow. “Near the back of the crowd. We didn’t want him to be too near… the burial, and he’s got his friends with him.”
Ocellus closed her eyes, then nodded in understanding, a single tear dripping down her cheek. The sun dipped low over the horizon, making way for Princess Luna’s inky black night sky.
“It’s time.” Metamorphosis whispered, locking eyes on the bodies in the distance.
They were covered in many vines and flowers, but Metamorphosis knew that underneath, four bodies were positioned with care. Two adult changelings with their hooves around two nymphs. He sighed, looking at Ocellus, who was crying again. Lives taken too young, and from too many.
“I’m ready.” Pharynx said, raising the crossbow. “Ocellus, usually this would be done by the remaining family members, but you don’t know the proper way to fire a crossbow.”
“Okay… but I know the words.” Ocellus whispered “They were taught to all the nymphs in the old days.”
Pharynx nodded. “Then say the words and I shall fire for you.” he said, clutching the crossbow and slowly taking aim.
Ocellus took a breath, then stepped forwards. She steadied herself, then spoke clearly, but with a wavering tone. Metamorphosis and Thorax stepped up beside her.
“Here do I see my father, and there do I see my mother, and my sisters and brothers.”
Ocellus’ tears fell faster, and Metamorphosis realized it was because the old words, unfortunately seemed to be tailor made for this situation. Her sister and brother, father and mother, were all gone. Metamorphosis pressed closer to Ocellus in comfort, sharing some love with her. She leaned against him, gathered herself, then continued.
“And there do I see the line of my kind, all the way back to our beginning. Guide their hooves to the realm of the lost.”
As Ocellus spoke this last part, Pharynx charged his antlers and set the arrow in the crossbow on fire, raising it up and firing it. It arched high into the air, then came down on the vines and flowers, beginning to burn them.
“I bid they take their place among our ancestors, in the halls of Elysium, where the brave may live forever.” Ocellus finished, as ten crossbows raised up from behind the crowd and sent ten more burning arrows after Pharynx’s.
Metamorphosis looked into the crowd, seeing the ten unreformed figures who fired the other arrows, eight adults and two nymphs. He nodded to them in silent respect, seeing them return the nods. Metamorphosis then turned at the sound of a choked cry. Ocellus, tears falling down her face, let out an anguished cry, turning and rushing off, past the crowd and into the Hive. Thorax's eyes widened and he made to follow her, but Metamorphosis held out a hoof to stop him, then headed after her himself.
Metamorphosis left the crowd, and the slowly burning moss covered mound they stood before. He had an idea of where Ocellus had gone, allowing his hooves to guide him as he entered the Hive and walked through the halls silently. His hoofsteps seemed to be louder than normal in the eerily silent halls, echoing in the empty Hive. Metamorphosis tried his best to ignore the sounds, flattening his very pony-like ears to his head. Every step took him further from the place where he knew he should be-with his sons, grieving. But he needed to make sure someone else was okay.
Metamorphosis turned down a hallway leading to bedrooms, and sure enough, he found the young changeling in her room. Ocellus looked up as he entered, burrowed deep under the blankets of her canopy bed.
“I… I couldn’t watch…” she whispered, as Metamorphosis pulled the curtains back with his magic.
“I understand.” Metamorphosis sat beside her.
“H-How can you understand this…? How can anyone?” Ocellus mumbled, and Metamorphosis sighed, looking at the opposite wall as memories flooded back to him.
“Back in the Old Days, during the time where I lived in the Hive…” Metamorphosis reached, and upon feeling Ocellus shift towards him, he pulled her close, “There were many deaths. I grew used to seeing the bodies being carried through the Hive… but each ceremony always made my heart ache for the lost and their families.”
Ocellus wiped her eyes, though tears still fell. “But… you personally never lost anyone, did you…?”
“No… but that was because I had no one to lose.” Metamorphosis sighed, staring up at the ceiling. “Chrysalis told me that my parents abandoned me when I was a nymph because of my appearance. She explained to me that later, they were in a battalion together, and died in battle. But since I never knew them, I couldn’t properly grieve. Along with that... though they are still alive, I will still never forget the loss I felt when I left the Hive, and the sons I didn't even know I had.”
“It’s alright. I’ve moved on.” Metamorphosis nuzzled her. “And you will too.”
“But I don’t want to move on! I-I don’t want to forget them…” Ocellus' voice broke and she buried her head in her hooves, sobbing. Metamorphosis rubbed her back gently, then lifted her head with a hoof.
“That’s not what moving on means.” Metamorphosis corrected her gently, placing a hoof on Ocellus’ chest. “Your heart aches right now because the wound is still very fresh. And this wound… think of it like a hole.” he pointed to one of the holes in his own hooves.
“Like… like a hole in the unreformed changelings…? Like yours…?” Ocellus whispered
“Not exactly. This hole is in your heart, a scar of memories.” Metamorphosis pressed his hoof against her chest. “It’s a good thing, it means you care. You care that they’re gone and are sad about it.”
“You wish you could reverse time, it hurts so bad...” Ocellus whispered, fresh tears spilling out. Metamorphosis nodded, nuzzling her. “Y-You wish you could take back every bad thing you ever thought or spoke about them, y-you'd do anything j-just to get them back...”
“Exactly like that, Ocellus. But you see... over time… this hole will heal. It will never truly go away, but the space around it will heal, because you have come to accept what has happened, and it will not hurt as much. It just takes time, love, and remembrance.”
Ocellus put her hooves on her chest, looking down. “So… I won’t see it… but I’ll still know it’s there… and I’ll never forget what caused it… but I won’t continue to put all of my focus on it.”
“Exactly.” Metamorphosis nuzzled her. “It’s okay to feel the pain now, and to think of nothing other than grieving for your loss. Hold onto the memories, recall them when you feel the most upset, and think about the good times. Even then, eventually, while your memories of them will remain, and you’ll hold them dear, you will also be ready to make new memories. With new creatures who love you.”
Ocellus whimpered, eyes still watering. “Metamorphosis… maybe I’ll move on one day… but I’m all alone now…”
“You aren’t.” a familiar voice spoke from the doorway.
Metamorphosis and Ocellus looked up. Thorax and Pharynx were standing at the door, Thorax was smiling softly as he carried Apex on his back. Metamorphosis smiled kindly at the three and beckoned them in. Pharynx came over and stood by Metamorphosis, while Thorax approached Ocellus. Apex jumped down from Thorax's back to Pharynx’s head, watching the two quietly.
“Ocellus, you are my student, my protégé.” Thorax nuzzled her. “And that means I care about you. You’re like... I've always thought of you as a daughter to me, Ocellus, and I realize this may be a sensitive topic right now, but I’m trying to say… we’re all here for you.”
“A-All of you?” Ocellus asked in a low voice, looking at Pharynx in slight disbelief. Apex moved first though, flying over and giving her as big a hug as he could with his small hooves. He seemed to understand talking was not needed to convey how he felt, and settled in her hooves, holding her tight.
“All of us.” Pharynx then assured her with a slight smile. “We may not get along that well sometimes, but I’m not going to leave you alone.”
“We’re all here for you Ocellus, we always will be. And Smolder will be there for you too, of course.” Metamorphosis chuckled as he used his magic to levitate over the crown Smolder had given the nymph for Hearth’s Warming. Ocellus blushed as Metamorphosis set it on her head.
“I understand that you need time to deal with this.” Thorax trotted to her. “But I just wanted to tell you that…”
Ocellus nodded, urging him to continue. Thorax smiled softly and looked her in the eye, Metamorphosis and Pharynx coming to stand on either side of him. Apex flew over, landing and being cradled in Thorax’s foreleg. The alpha changeling then spoke for them all.
“Whenever you’re ready, Ocellus, you have a family waiting for you.”
“Are you sure about this Ocellus? You can stay here a bit longer, we’ll get permission with Twilight-”
“No Thorax, it’s okay.” Ocellus adjusted her saddlebags, refusing to make eye contact with the king.
Thorax watched her with sad eyes. “Okay. But Pharynx, dad, and I will go with you.”
Ocellus hesiated, then nodded. Thorax gave her a comforting nuzzle, then turned to face Metamorphosis and Pharynx.
“Are you sure we all have to go?” Pharynx asked
“She needs us.” Thorax replied
“But the guards-”
“Can handle themselves for a day.” Metamorphosis nuzzled Pharynx. “And if they can’t, you can yell at them, you like doing that.”
Pharynx sighed and nodded. “Okay… Ocellus does need us more than I need the guard rotations to be perfect… they never are anyway.”
Metamorphosis nodded, then looked at Ocellus. She had stayed at the Hive for only a couple more days, then asked to return to school. Though Ocellus had claimed it was because she didn’t want to fall behind in her studies, Metamorphosis got the feeling it was more because Ocellus didn’t want to stay at the Hive any longer.
“Come on then Ocellus.” Thorax nuzzled her. “Are… are you going to tell your friends?”
Ocellus didn’t respond, merely taking off. Thorax sighed softly but took off as well. Metamorphosis and Pharynx followed, and the four changelings began flying in the direction of Ponyville. Eventually, they reached Ponyville, landing near the school.
Ocellus hung her head slightly as they walked, pressing herself between Thorax and Metamorphosis. There were a few students milling about on the lawn, but Thorax led them past the groups. Or tried to, anyway.
“Ocellus!”
Smolder flew forwards, the rest of Ocellus’ group of friends behind her. Ocellus squeaked in alarm and sheltered under Metamorphosis. He blinked in surprise, but looked down at her, giving her a comforting gaze.
“Celly, where have you been?” Smolder landed near them. “I-er, we’ve been worried about you.”
“I-It’s nothing…” Ocellus whispered
“Are you sure? You look upset.” Sandbar said, but Pharynx blocked him as he tried to come closer.
“Leave the kid alone, if she doesn’t want to talk with you she doesn’t have to, okay?” Pharynx snarled
“Hey, he’s just being nice.” Gallus defended, wrapping a wing over Sandbar.
“Just back off.” Pharynx snapped
Metamorphosis put a hoof on Ocellus’ shoulder. This was why they had insisted on Pharynx coming. To ward off any curious creatures. Of course, Ocellus’ friends would have been an exception, but she didn’t seem ready to talk to them.
“Ocellus is fine, don’t worry.” Thorax assured the group. “We’re just taking her to Twilight’s office so she knows Ocellus is back.”
“Come on Ocellus.” Metamorphosis urged, and Ocellus followed him into the school. Thorax and Pharynx joined them soon.
“Are you okay Ocellus?” Thorax asked
“I’m fine Thorax…” Ocellus whispered
Metamorphosis and Thorax both nuzzled her. She smiled halfheartedly and led them to Twilight’s office. Thorax and Pharynx greeted Twilight and began talking with her. Ocellus sat down on the chair in front of Twilight’s desk, and Metamorphosis stood beside her, giving the nymph a comforting nuzzle.
“Alright, I’ll let the other teachers know.” Twilight stepped over to Ocellus and placed a hoof on her shoulder. “It’s okay if you need some time, I can talk to your friends-”
“I’m okay…” Ocellus shrugged her off and stood up. “I-I’m just going to go to my room… I’m sure I have a lot of work to catch up on…”
“Oh. Alright then…” Twilight watched her leave.
“She’s been hiding in her room most of the time.” Thorax whispered
Metamorphosis nodded. “I wouldn’t expect her to come to classes.”
“Understood. I’ll ask Starlight to talk with her…” Twilight said, looking after Ocellus.
“Alright. We’d better get going…” Thorax sighed, leading them out of the office.
A few days later, a flash of green flames startled Metamorphosis as he talked with Thorax in the throne room. He blinked as a scroll manifested out of the flames. Apex, who had been running around and playing in the throne room, scampered over, amazed by the sudden flames.
“What was that?”
“That’s Spike’s fire, it’s how he sends messages.” Thorax grabbed a scroll that had fallen to the floor and unrolled it. “It’s Ocellus… oh no… Twilight said she had a breakdown…”
“Okay, I should probably go talk to her, Pharynx is busy but I think if I hurry-”
“Thorax, let me handle it.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “You stay here and look after the Hive.”
“O-Okay dad…”
Metamorphosis smiled kindly, then nuzzled his son once more. Thorax smiled back slightly, then, grabbing Apex, headed off to return to his duties. Metamorphosis took off to begin the flight to Ponyville.
When Metamorphosis made it to the school, Twilight was waiting outside to greet him.
“Oh, Metamorphosis.” she blinked. “I was expecting Thorax would-”
“I convinced him to stay at the Hive. But I can help.” Metamorphosis explained
Twilight nodded and led him down the hallway. “Ocellus hasn’t been acting herself, but it’s not as bad as you predicted. She’s been showing up early to all her classes since you brought her back, I think mostly to avoid talking with her friends about it. But today she and her friends were in the library, and I think they asked her about what happened, and… she ran into her and Smolder’s dorm, locking herself in.”
Metamorphosis nodded, then, Twilight led him down another hall. Twilight blinked in confusion.
“That’s weird, if she locked the door, why is it ope-” Twilight broke off as they neared the open door. Metamorphosis looked in, seeing why.
Ocellus was huddled under the blankets, Smolder curled up around her protectively. Gallus was standing by the bed, wings ruffled. Sandbar was leaning against him, and Silverstream and Yona stood nearby. Twilight opened her mouth to speak, but Metamorphosis stopped her, stepping into the room.
“Ocellus, we’re so sorry.” Sandbar moved closer. “Seriously, we wouldn’t have pressured you to tell us if we’d known…”
“It’s okay…” Ocellus whispered, giving him a slight smile.
“Ocellus, it’s not.” Metamorphosis touched his muzzle to hers gently, sharing some love with her. “You’re clearly not ready to move on yet. You shouldn’t have returned to the school so soon…”
“I had to… I needed to distract myself…” Ocellus murmured
“A distraction is only that, a distraction.” Gallus spoke up. “Sooner or later you’ll feel the wound again, and it’ll just be even more painful.”
Ocellus nodded. “I felt that today…” she looked up at Metamorphosis. “But I don’t want to go back to the Hive… not yet. I’m not ready.”
Metamorphosis hesitated. Ocellus would need love and comfort to get through the remorse she still felt. The Hive could provide that, but she wasn’t ready to stay there for too long. That was understandable, due to everything that had happened. Metamorphosis thought for a minute longer, then spoke with a small smile.
“Alright Ocellus.” he said softly. “In Thorax’s place, I will allow you to stay where you feel the most comfortable, provided you can make sure there will be plenty of love and comfort around for you when you need it.”
“I’m sure you will uphold your promise, Smolder.” Metamorphosis smiled at her, then turned to Twilight. “I think I should go now. Ocellus has everything she needs.”
Twilight nodded, wiping her eyes a little. “Y-Yes, come on then Metamorphosis…”
Metamorphosis nodded, following her out of the room. As he left, he took one last glance back at Ocellus. She seemed to be settling down to sleep, curled in Smolder’s arms. Gallus was sitting by the bed with a wing over Sandbar, as if on watch. Yona and Silverstream were gathering a couple blankets from Smolder’s bed and bringing them over. Metamorphosis smiled softly. Yes, Ocellus would be okay here.
Metamorphosis was walking through the hallway of the Hive, glancing around at all the happy changelings. The Hive seemed to have accepted the loss of Ocellus’ family, and though Metamorphosis still detected a distinct, lingering scent of grief, they had begun to recover.
“Dad?”
Metamorphosis turned, seeing Pharynx approaching him. He smiled, coming closer to the beta changeling.
“What is it son?”
“I… uh… well…” Pharynx blushed slightly, looking away. “I had something to tell you… in private.”
Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled him. “Alright, how about we go to your room?”
“O-Okay, thanks dad.” Pharynx smiled at him momentarily, but as he turned to lead Metamorphosis to his room, one of his soldiers ran up to him.
“Prince-General Pharynx, we need your assistance at the south border of the kingdom.” the soldier said, nodding to Metamorphosis politely.
“Of course…” Pharynx sighed. “Dad-”
“Say no more, we can talk later Pharynx.”
“Thanks.” Pharynx smiled at him before gesturing for the soldier to lead him away. Metamorphosis smiled and trotted off, looking for something to do.
Later that day, Metamorphosis heard from Tibius that the patrol Pharynx had gone to help had returned. He began searching for Pharynx, hoping to continue their conversation from earlier.
Metamorphosis checked the nursery first, to see if Thorax had dragged Pharynx there to play with the nymphs. They weren’t there, and Apex was being occupied by his two friends, so he continued his search. He walked through the Hive, heading towards his son’s rooms next. Metamorphosis heard voices from Thorax’s room, and smiled, knowing they were probably in there. He went over and gently pushed open the door, catching the end of their conversation.
“-I just… I’m so confused, Thorax…” Pharynx was saying, words coming out in a rush.
“I know, me too Pharynx… I-I hadn’t noticed it for a while, I-I’ve been too busy with the kingdom, but… I just don’t know how to handle this…”
“I mean… I love Temp… she’s my everything.” Pharynx continued, and Metamorphosis leaned closer, eyes widening. “But… if I love her so much… why the buck am I noticing…”
“I understand Pharynx, I don’t get it… how can I love Emmie if I start finding everyone attractive…”
Metamorphosis blinked, confused. He heard hoofsteps briefly, like the sound of one of the two stepping closer to the other. Then, Pharynx spoke in a whisper, so that Metamorphosis had to lean closer.
“I-I could… always help with that…”
“W-What?” Thorax stammered, clearly confused.
“I could help you see for sure.”
“R-Really?”
“Yeah… I have an idea.” Pharynx admitted, voice growing stronger.
“O-Okay… what’s the idea?”
“Come here brother. A-And just remember, this doesn’t mean anything.”
“Alright?”
Metamorphosis heard Thorax moving towards Pharynx, then his eyes widened as he heard his youngest son give a small, muffled gasp. He finally took a breath and peeked into the room. His eyes widened.
Pharynx had pulled Thorax in and was kissing him. Full on the lips. And neither of them were fighting it. They pulled apart. Thorax stared at Pharynx in shock, eyes wide. Pharynx blushed and looked away.
“Well? How did you feel…?” Pharynx asked hesitantly.
“I… It was nice… but…” Thorax looked away. “Ember…”
“They won’t have to know about that Thor.”
“But…”
Metamorphosis couldn’t stand and watch any longer. He entered the room, making his sons turn around and give small gasps.
“D-Dad!” Pharynx exclaimed, turning red. “H-How long have you…?”
“Enough to realize this is probably what you wanted to talk about.” Metamorphosis said, looking between them, gaze soft. “Do you two…?”
“N-No. Not like that.” Thorax told him, blushing as he looked at Pharynx. “It’s just…”
“Yes?”
“I don’t want to talk about it.” Pharynx shoved past Metamorphosis, gritting his teeth. Metamorphosis looked at Thorax, who shook his head.
“I-I’d tell you dad, just… it’s partly his story too…”
Metamorphosis nodded in understanding. He then turned and followed Pharynx out. Thorax sighed and followed, still blushing slightly.
Metamorphosis and Thorax looked around the Hive for the beta changeling.
“He’s not anywhere…” Thorax said, beginning to get worried.
“It’s okay Thorax, we’ll find him. Is there anywhere besides the Hive where he could be?”
“Well… maybe the training area…” Thorax ran out of the Hive and towards the sandy hollow where Pharynx trained. Metamorphosis ran after him.
When they made it to the sandy hollow, it was empty. Thorax teared up and sat down in the open space. Metamorphosis placed a hoof on his shoulder, then looked around.
“This is my fault, I just… I was just so confused… we both were…” Thorax sobbed, screwing his eyes shut.
As Metamorphosis looked up, he noticed a figure on the nearby cliff leading into the woods. His eyes widened as he made out the familiar antlers and sparkling diamonds on the figure.
“Thorax, look.”
Thorax looked up, following his father’s gaze. He gasped, and the two took off. They made it up the cliff and entered the trees. Metamorphosis led Thorax down the path that would lead them up to the figure. They stepped out from the trees, seeing Pharynx sitting on the cliff, staring blankly at the Hive in the distance.
“Son?” Metamorphosis walked closer, and Pharynx shifted slightly. “I want to know what’s going on. I’m not upset at you, I promise.”
“...It’s… complicated.” Pharynx spoke after a minute. Metamorphosis sat beside him.
“You can tell me Pharynx, I promise, I won’t get mad.”
Pharynx hesitated, then leaned into Metamorphosis. Thorax sat on his other side, looking at the ground. Pharynx closed his eyes.
“I… I’m starting to… have feelings for other stallions…”
“What do you mean?” Metamorphosis asked
“I mean… I-I really really love Tempest, don’t get me wrong. I just… I’ve found stallions attractive too… as c-cute as her… I just think she’s the… the most beautiful.”
Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled him gently. “It’s okay to be interested in others, you clearly know Tempest is the only one of them you’ll actually be with.”
“I guess… I-I was nervous… I wanted to prove it to myself to make sure… that’s why I… why we…” Pharynx looked up at Thorax, and they both blushed.
“I-I let him do it too…” Thorax added, looking away. “I just… I’ve always kind of thought… everyone was attractive. I-I mean, not everyone, everyone, but… every gender, kind of creature… Ember is obviously the only creature I love like that, but… it doesn’t change that everyone is beautiful…”
“So what you wish to say is…” Metamorphosis prompted.
Pharynx took a breath. “Dad… I’m Bisexual.”
Metamorphosis smiled, as Thorax looked up, eyes watering.
“A-And I’m Pansexual.”
“Well then…” Metamorphosis shifted and wrapped his hooves around them both. “I still love you, my sons.”
Pharynx stiffened momentarily, while Thorax hugged back tightly, crying tears of joy. Pharynx eventually relaxed, smiling and hugging Metamorphosis as well. He then suddenly tasted something, a familiar scent he’d smelled before, and recognized. Chocolate coffee cake. Metamorphosis chuckled softly, realizing what it meant. However, he said nothing, and simply smiled at his sons, happy they’d gotten this off their chests at last. Clearly they’d been holding onto it for a while.
Metamorphosis was playing with his grandson in Thorax’s room, while the alpha in question performed his usual duties. Apex was playing with he and Thorax’s wolf plushies, giggling. Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled the nymph.
“Dad?” the door opened and Thorax walked in. “Have you seen Pharynx?”
“I thought he was with you.” Metamorphosis replied, standing up and leaving Apex to play.
“No, he and I were going over some of the patrol routes, but we finished up and Pharynx left. I need him to help me with this document about a trade deal but noling’s seen him.”
“It’s probably nothing to worry about Thorax. I’m sure Pharynx is just training.” Metamorphosis assured his son, but Thorax still looked nervous.
“But Clypto last saw him heading to the cafeteria, that’s nowhere near his favorite training spot…”
“I’m sure he’s somewhere nearby Thorax, don’t worry.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “How about I help you finish up that trade deal document and if Pharynx still hasn’t turned up by the time we’re done, we can look for him?”
Metamorphosis waited for Thorax to put Apex down for a nap, then let him lead him to his office. The two sat down and began to work. Once they were done, Metamorphosis sighed and sat back.
“That was a lot more complicated than I remember.” he murmured, rubbing his temple.
“Well, we are on much better terms with everyone now, meaning there’s a lot more work…” Thorax sighed, nuzzling him. “Thanks for helping dad.”
“Of course my son.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him back. “Now, let’s see if we can find Pharynx.”
“Yeah… I hope he’s okay…” Thorax left the room, clearly nervous.
“I’m sure he’s fine, Thorax. What could he possibly be doing that’s so bad-”
Crash!
Metamorphosis and Thorax looked at each other, eyes wide. They raced towards the loud noise, where they could hear shouting.
“What’s going on?” Thorax asked as they arrived at the scene.
One of the chefs, Phalange, was shouting at a rather familiar lump of cyan.
“Pharynx!” Thorax ran over and pulled him up. “Phalange, what’s going on?”
“I found him in the storage room.” Phalange explained, glaring at Pharynx.
“What? Pharynx, what were you doing?” Thorax looked at his brother, who merely stifled a burp and leaned against him.
“Pharynx?” Metamorphosis walked over and lifted his head. “Is… Thorax, he’s drunk.”
“He’s what?!”
“It looks like he cost us almost a whole case of Hard Cider.” Phalange spat, glaring at the beta changeling. “You need to keep a better eye on that old drunkard veteran.”
Metamorphosis stomped the floor in front of Phalange, making him jump. He glared at the chef.
“My son is not a drunkard, nor is he much older than you. I will not let you call him that again. He’s a wonderful changeling and this is just a misunderstanding. I’ll talk to him when he sobers up, and you will apologize to him.”
Phalange snorted and turned around. “Oh like I was the only one…” he muttered before walking away. Metamorphosis raised his brow, then turned back to Pharynx.
“Phar?” Thorax nuzzled him.
“Come on Thorax, he needs to lie down.” Metamorphosis helped Thorax lift Pharynx up, and they carried him back to his room.
After laying Pharynx in bed, Metamorphosis laid beside him, and Thorax joined him, nestling close. Pharynx passed out, leaning against his father. Thorax lay next to his brother, nuzzling him gently. They stayed with the beta changeling as he slept.
Soon enough, Pharynx woke up. He groaned and rubbed his pounding head, gagging.
“What the-” Pharynx gagged, then felt something being held up to his mouth.
“Drink.” Metamorphosis’ voice commanded, and Pharynx swallowed as best as he could.
“Dad…? What was that?” Pharynx asked, his vision clearing as he felt the headache lessen slightly.
“A serum from the infirmary. It should help your hangover.” Metamorphosis replied, voice stern.
“O-Oh… you…?”
“Yes, we know.”
“Shit… wait, we?” Pharynx rubbed his eyes, looking up. Both Thorax and Metamorphosis were standing above him. “Oh…”
“Well, Pharynx? Would you like to explain to us what you were thinking?” Metamorphosis asked
“I…” Pharynx rubbed his head. “I didn’t mean to get so drunk, I just… I-I couldn’t stop…”
“But why did you even start?!” Thorax exclaimed, and Pharynx winced. “Really Phar, why?”
Metamorphosis looked at him sternly. Pharynx bit his bottom lip and looked down.
“Thorax is right Pharynx, why would you do something like this? How long have you been drinking?” Metamorphosis asked.
“...This was my first time…” Pharynx told him hoarsely. “I’ve only tasted alcohol once before, while infiltrating a Canterlot party… I-I didn’t know it could be so…”
“Addictive? Yes.” Metamorphosis glared at him. “But you still haven’t answered the question. Why would you do this?”
Pharynx lowered his head and closed his eyes. Metamorphosis and Thorax continued talking.
“You know, that was completely irresponsible of you, Pharynx. Drunk in the middle of the day, it’s not a good thing. You can’t just go off and get drunk because you feel like it.” Thorax began.
“Shut the buck up Thorax…” Pharynx muttered, burying his head into the pillow.
“Pharynx Ray Elytron!” Metamorphosis snapped, and Pharynx’s eyes shot open.
“Y-You know my…?”
“Of course I know your full name, Chrysalis had records made of you two when you hatched, and I saw them when I returned.” Metamorphosis snapped. “But that’s not the point! Why in the name of Equestria would you do something like this?!”
Pharynx began tearing up, but Metamorphosis didn’t notice.
“I want an answer, Pharynx, now. Why would you ever think drinking was a good ide-”
“Because it’s the only way I can cope with all those stupid insults!” Pharynx finally shouted, sitting up, though it made his head spin.
Thorax and Metamorphosis stepped back in surprise. Pharynx gripped his head, cursing under his breath.
“W-What insults?” Thorax asked.
“You seriously don’t hear them talking?” Pharynx spat, glaring at them. “Oculus and Pupae weren’t the only ones who didn’t like me.”
“What do you-?”
“My soldiers hate how hard I train them, and they complain about it when they think I’m not paying attention. Most of the others say behind my back that I leave negative feelings in their mouths whenever I walk by, making them want to vomit. They even blame me for Oculus and Pupae's...” Pharynx trailed off and looked down at the ground. “Pretty much everyone blames me for that... pretty much everyone calls me a bitter, worthless, heartless old drunkard veteran… I might as well be that…”
Pharynx’s ears drooped and he lowered his head. Metamorphosis could see tears dripping down his eldest son’s face and his eyes went wide. Now Phalange’s words made sense. He really wasn’t the first to say cruel things about Pharynx, and the general had picked up on it. Whether outright making him aware was their intention or not, it was clear Pharynx wasn’t taking it well.
“Pharynx…” Metamorphosis stepped forward and hugged him. “You aren’t old and you certainly aren’t worthless. You train your soldiers the way you do because you want them to be at their best, I know that.”
“And you don’t leave negative feelings anywhere. You hide it, but you care, Pharynx.” Thorax trotted closer and nuzzled him. “Those kinds of feelings wouldn’t make anyone sick.”
Metamorphosis lifted his son’s chin and looked him in the eye. “I understand you’re having a hard time, and Thorax and I will do our best to put a stop to it. But drinking away your pain is never the right answer.”
Pharynx sighed and looked down. “I-I know…”
“Will you promise me you won’t try something like this again?”
“I-I promise dad…”
“Thank you my son.” Metamorphosis kissed his forehead gently, doing his best to share some love with his eldest son. “And I can tell you’re paying for it, that will be your lesson learned.”
“Okay dad…” Pharynx leaned against him. Metamorphosis hugged him gently.
“Now, we have a bit more of that serum to help with your hangover, I want you to take that, then try to rest, okay?”
Pharynx nodded, and Thorax levitated the serum over. Pharynx drank the rest of it, then sighed and laid down in bed. Thorax and Metamorphosis laid down beside him, and he blinked in confusion.
“What are you…?”
“Like we’re going to let you sleep this off alone.” Thorax nuzzled him gently.
“Thorax is right. We’re staying here with you Pharynx.” Metamorphosis promised, letting Pharynx lean on him.
Pharynx smiled and closed his eyes, resting between his brother and father. He soon fell asleep, the headache he had now no more than a dull throb. Metamorphosis held him close, knowing his son had learned his lesson, and mentally planning out a couple very stern warnings to his fellow changelings.
Chapter 33: Those Who Fight First Fight The Hardest
Metamorphosis walked away from the kitchens, having just finished telling off Phalange, especially for the fact that he’d seemed to care more about the loss of cider than about Pharynx. The unreformed changeling sighed, slowing his step slightly. He knew he should probably hurry, so he could get back to his sons, he’d gotten up once Thorax dozed off to deliver some warnings to Phalange, among others.
“Dad?” Thorax trotted up to him, and he looked up.
“Yes Thorax?”
“Why did you leave?” Thorax asked. Metamorphosis sighed, beckoning for Thorax to follow him.
“I just got up to talk to Phalange.” Metamorphosis explained, leading them back towards Pharynx’s room.
“Oh…” Thorax was silent for a moment, then spoke again. “What are we going to do dad? Pharynx needs our help.”
“I know, but he might not need as much help as you think.” Metamorphosis said. “He said it was his first time drinking, so clearly this isn’t a habit that we need to help him break. It’s more of something he discovered doesn’t help and won’t try again.”
“I guess so… but what about the changelings? The ones he said insulted him?”
“We’ll talk to them.” Metamorphosis assured him as they stopped in front of Pharynx’s room. “But I do wonder if those other changelings were doing this on purpose.”
“No, they wouldn’t,” Thorax said, eyes widening, “We’re all kind to each other, and after Pharynx transformed they accepted him.”
“Then maybe that’s the problem.” Metamorphosis said. “They thought when he transformed, Pharynx would be like them, but instead, he acted mostly the same.”
“Mostly… at least he stopped kicking holes in the wall. Kind of…”
“Either way, clearly the other changelings believed that Pharynx would change after transforming, and when that didn’t happen, they began to get upset.”
“S-So what about Pharynx?”
“He must have realized what was happening, and tried to change into the changeling they expected him to be like. When even that was unsuccessful…”
“He tried drinking earlier today.” Thorax finished his father’s thought
“Exactly.” Metamorphosis sighed.
“I just don’t understand why they thought things were going to be different when he transformed.” Thorax said, looking down. “He’s always been like this, why would they expect him to change just by transforming?”
Metamorphosis shook his head. “It’s anyone’s guess, though perhaps it seemed to happen to them, so they assumed it would to Pharynx.”
“I always knew they were idiots.”
The two turned around, startled at what they heard, and then saw. Pharynx was walking out of the room, leaning against the doorway. They could see a few lines under his eyes and he looked a bit tired, but seemed okay.
“Pharynx!” Thorax lunged and hugged him tightly.
“Ack! Thorax, let go!” Pharynx said, wincing slightly at his own volume. “I was only sleeping, it’s not like I was dying!”
Thorax released him, but still nuzzled him. Pharynx sighed and rubbed his temple.
“How are you feeling Pharynx?” Metamorphosis asked his son.
“Tired… and I still have a headache. But better, that serum stuff helped.”
“I’m glad.” Metamorphosis pulled him into a gentle hug. “So, how much of our conversation did you hear?”
“Not much.” Pharynx rubbed his eyes. “Enough to know that you were talking about the other changelings.”
“About them… why didn’t you tell us what was going on?” Thorax asked
“I… I don’t know…” Pharynx looked away, sighing. “I just… thought I could handle it, it was my problem. Besides, you and dad were always busy with something, and those idiots in my guard were my problem to deal with.”
“That doesn’t mean we wouldn’t have understood!” Thorax exclaimed. “Phar, you know how I was bullied in the Old Days, I would have helped if I’d known you were going through that now.”
“And just because you believed it was your problem doesn’t mean we couldn’t have helped. We would have at least listened.” Metamorphosis added
Pharynx sighed and muttered something under his breath. Metamorphosis lifted his son’s chin to look him in the eye.
“Pharynx, what did you say?”
Pharynx sighed. “I said, I deserved it anyway.”
“What?! Of course you didn’t!” Thorax cried
“Didn’t I?” Pharynx stepped back, glaring at them. “You don’t know what it was like, dad, back then, but Thorax knows it all. Especially about what a horrible brother I was.”
“What? But Pharynx, in the desire crystals-”
“You wanted good memories of us so it showed you good memories. It doesn’t mean I was never a bad brother.” Pharynx spat
“I never thought you were a bad brother.” Thorax spoke up, voice muted slightly.
“Oh really?” Pharynx raised a brow at him.
“I… well, okay, at times you weren’t exactly… the brother I needed, but you’re the only brother I have, and that was enough.”
Pharynx grunted in disbelief. Metamorphosis reached and placed a hoof on his shoulder.
“It doesn’t matter if sometimes you did things that hurt Thorax’s feelings-”
“More like every day.” Pharynx spat
“That may be true, but I know that you still loved him. Don’t think I’ve forgotten what the Old Days were like, fight or be fought, hunt or starve.”
“Yeah, and I did a lot of that to my own brother. Who could possibly call me a good creature after what I did?” Pharynx pulled away from his father and brother. “No wonder those idiots still think I’m a monster… you should never have had me, dad.”
“Pharynx, wait!” Thorax called, but Pharynx had already walked down the hall and disappeared from view. Thorax sighed and looked down at the ground. “He’s wrong. He was the best brother I could have asked for. And I know without him I wouldn’t be here today.”
“I know son.” Metamorphosis hugged him. “Let’s just make sure Pharynx knows that too.”
“Okay.” Thorax nodded. “I think I might know where he went…”
“The overlook of the Hive?” Metamorphosis asked, as Thorax led him off.
“Actually, Pharynx told me earlier he was planning on taking Apex to his training area to practice.”
“And since we know Apex is in your room sleeping…”
“He went there alone.” Thorax and Metamorphosis said as one, and Metamorphosis chuckled.
“I believe this is one of the reasons Pharynx says we’re so similar.”
“Yeah…” Thorax smiled, laughing softly. Metamorphosis smiled at this connection with his son, before continuing to walk.
They headed out to the training area, and as they got closer to the sandy hollow, they saw Pharynx. He was sitting in the center of the sandy hollow as they approached.
“Pharynx?” Thorax asked softly.
“Go away.” Pharynx muttered.
“What are you doing sitting here alone?” Metamorphosis asked
“I-I’m training.” Pharynx stood up and sunk into a pounce.
“Pharynx.” Metamorphosis stepped in front of him. “We have to talk.”
Pharynx sighed and straightened up, then looked away, glaring at the ground. “Let me guess, about how you wish I was never bo-”
Thorax and Metamorphosis both hugged him. Pharynx yelped in surprise.
“We love you Pharynx, and I know you’re a good brother.” Thorax said, nuzzling him. “Why would you think we don’t love you?”
Pharynx sighed and pulled away from them. “You know I did my best to protect you and hold up my own reputation, Thorax. But I don’t think you knew just how hard I tried.”
“What do you mean?” Thorax asked
“I mean that…” Pharynx sighed. “I always had to fight the hardest back in the Old Days. It’s how I excelled in rank so quickly. I trained harder than anyone else, but not just so I could be the best. I also trained so I’d be able to defend you. And not just you… you taught me how to feel pity, and… and after you left… sometimes I would take harder missions so others who I knew wouldn’t be able to handle them wouldn’t have to.”
“You… you did?” Thorax asked
Pharynx nodded. “I’ve always fought the hardest out of all the changelings… so that others wouldn’t have to do the same.”
“Oh Pharynx…” Thorax hugged him tight. “That just proves what we’re saying, you’re a great brother.”
Pharynx hugged back hesitantly, and Metamorphosis walked closer. He placed a hoof on Pharynx’s shoulder.
“Pharynx, things like that, as Thorax said, prove that these changelings that degrade you for who you are are doing this for one reason only. They’re jealous of you and know that there’s no real reason for them to say these things.”
“Yes there is. They don’t see me being soft. And I don’t want them to see.” Pharynx said
“And that’s perfectly alright. But if they don’t love you and respect you as their Prince because of who you are, then that’s their problem, not yours.” Metamorphosis said
“And no matter what, you’ll always be my big brother.” Thorax smiled at him. “The best brother in Equestria and beyond.”
Pharynx’s eyes widened, then filled with tears. He immediately buried his head into Metamorphosis’ shoulder, allowing both his brother and father to wrap their hooves around him.
“You’re both huge d-dorks!” Pharynx said, voice muffled, though Metamorphosis could taste relief and happiness coming off his eldest son.
“Heh, we know Pharynx.” Thorax smiled and nuzzled him. “But you love us anyway.”
“S-Shuddap…”
Metamorphosis and Thorax both chuckled, happy Pharynx was feeling better. Metamorphosis shifted his stance to get a more comfortable embrace of his son. They could stay there a little longer, to let Pharynx get it out of his system. He clearly had needed this for a while.
“Thorax?” Metamorphosis nudged his son, who was asleep. It was early morning after all.
Thorax yawned, shifting, clutching Apex gently. Metamorphosis smiled softly, not having the heart to wake his son quite yet. He curled up beside him instead. Thorax yawned again, putting a hoof around his dad in his sleep. Apex stirred from the movement, rubbing his eyes.
“Heh, good morning Apex.” Metamorphosis murmured. The nymph opened his eyes.
“Huh? Gran’pa Mety? Wha’re you doin’ here? Did you have a bad d’eam?”
“Heh, no little one.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I’m here to get Thorax.”
“Bu’ no’ me?” Apex looked up at him with big eyes.
“Seeing you is a perk.” Metamorphosis chuckled, hugging the nymph. “Why don’t you run along and see if Hero and Zenex are awake?”
“Okay! Bye Gran’pa Mety!” Apex hugged him, then fluttered his wings and flew out of the room. Metamorphosis smiled, then turned back to Thorax.
“Thorax?” Metamorphosis whispered again, and this time, Thorax stirred, yawning.
“Dad?”
“Wake up, my son.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him gently. Thorax yawned, stretching.
“Morning dad. Did you need something?”
“Well, yes.” Metamorphosis sat beside Thorax, sighing softly. “Son, do you remember during the Diplomatic Meeting, where I told all of you Chrysalis’ backstory?”
“Yes…?” Thorax snuggled up against him.
“Well, I didn’t tell you the whole story.” Metamorphosis sighed and looked down. “I purposely forgot to mention one thing, as it is something that should remain solely a part of the Changeling’s culture, no one else’s.”
“What is it?” Thorax asked, ears perking in interest and worry over his father’s tone.
“Let’s get your brother first, then I’ll explain.”
Thorax nodded, getting up. He and Metamorphosis then headed to Pharynx’s room, finding him already awake. He was polishing his battle armor.
“Pharynx, what are you doing?”
Pharynx looked up. “Keeping my armor shiny, just because it’s probably never going to be used again is no excuse not to keep it in perfect condition. What are you two doing here?”
“Dad has something to tell us.” Thorax explained
“Oh. What?” Pharynx glanced over. Metamorphosis sighed and sat down.
“There is something I left out when I told you and your fellow leaders about Chrysalis’ history.” he began. “You see, the Draconequus that cursed Chrysalis and her subjects did not leave them without a way of reversing the curse.”
“What?!” The two brothers exclaimed as one, and moved closer.
“There was a prophecy. Chrysalis discovered it years later, while crafting her throne.”
“The magic absorbing throne?” Thorax asked
“The very same.” Metamorphosis closed his eyes. “Chrysalis showed it to me using a x-ray spell, it lies directly underneath the throne, embedded in stone.”
“Then how come noling saw it when they were putting Thorax’s hippie throne in?” Pharynx interrupted, causing his father to re-open his eyes and him to receive a jab in the side from his brother. “Oh come on, you know I’m not wrong, it’s literally a giant tree, Thorax.”
“Hmph… you still don’t have to be rude about it… though that is a fair question, why didn’t we see it?”
“If I had to guess I’d assume that over the years it was covered by dust and grime.” Metamorphosis explained. “But… I believe we should uncover it again.”
“Really? Why?” Thorax asked, and instead of responding, Metamorphosis merely closed his eyes again, and spoke.
“Those who preyed and fed on selfish desire. Cursed to forever hunger for what your leader could not sow. Now crave and seek until you drain all other species fellow. Starve and fight until the single fallen heir begins to inspire.”
“The single heir?” Thorax echoed. “As in… heir to the throne?”
“Oi… clearly, I got most of the brains.” Pharynx muttered, facehoofing. “Thorax, the prophecy is clearly talking about you!”
“It’s what?!”
“He’s right.” Metamorphosis leaned over and nuzzled his son. “Clearly, this prophecy was meant to tell Chrysalis that the solution to bringing her kingdom back was you. The heir that would inspire everyone to change.”
“But, of course, mother was blinded by greed and I’m guessing that she completely ignored it. Typical.” Pharynx grunted. “I’m glad we at least have one intelligent parent.”
Metamorphosis chuckled and hugged him gently. “I love you too my son.”
Thorax, meanwhile, had fallen silent, processing things. “But… we’re brothers, twins even, why does it only refer to there being one heir?”
“Because you were the ‘fallen’ heir, like it said.” Pharynx reminded him. “I was about ready to follow mother’s every command. You were the only one out of the two of us who sought another way and thus ‘fell’ from grace in mother’s eyes.”
“I guess that makes sense…” Thorax stood up. “Dad, we need to uncover that prophecy.”
“I assumed as much.” Metamorphosis also rose. “Come, I have a feeling it will take all three of us to move your throne out of the way so we can get to it.”
The brothers looked at each other, then nodded and stood, eyes full of trust and determination. Metamorphosis led them out to the throne room, where Pharynx immediately set to work. He rammed his shoulder into one side of the throne and began pushing. Thorax ignited his antlers with magic and began tugging from the other side. Metamorphosis joined his oldest son in pushing the throne.
The act of moving the throne attracted attention from nearby changelings, who watched them curiously. Some looked like they wanted to assist the royals, but, sensing from the emotions being given off by the three that this was a family matter, they stayed put. Eventually, the throne had been moved enough that they could see more clearly the platform it stood on.
“There it is.” Metamorphosis said, as Pharynx used his hoof to brush aside the layers of dirt that had gathered over time, coughing as it billowed up into the air.
“It’s exactly how you said it was.” Thorax murmured, touching a hoof to the words, so deeply engraved into the stone the grooves could be felt against his hoof.
“What do we do with it?” Pharynx asked, prodding the stone. Surprisingly, the stone shifted, and his eyes widened.
“It’s a stone slab, not properly connected with the rest of the platform.” Metamorphosis realized
“We can replace the slab with another piece of rock.” Thorax said, igniting his antlers again and attempting to lift the stone. Pharynx and Metamorphosis quickly lit their own horns to help him. “I know exactly what to do with this.”
“Do you now, baby bro?” Pharynx asked, raising a brow.
“Mhm.” Thorax replied simply, staring at the inscription.
“I love it Thorax.” Metamorphosis said, smiling at his son, who smiled back.
The stone slab had been bonded to the entrance of the Hive, using Pharynx, Thorax, and Metamorphosis’ combined magic. Pharynx and Metamorphosis had agreed with Thorax, it was the perfect place to put it.
“Now, we will always be reminded of the changeling who inspired and guided us down a better path.” Pharynx said, making Thorax blush. “Good, you liked it. Enjoy it, because that’s all the sappiness you’re getting out of me for the next week. Maybe month.”
“Well, thank you Phar.” Thorax smiled at him, then hugged both his father and brother. “I’m glad we did this.”
“Yeah yeah, now, let’s go grab some of the dumbest guards to put the throne back in place.” Pharynx said, pulling away.
“Why can’t we just do it ourselves? Besides, why would you want the ‘dumbest’ guards to do it?” Thorax asked, following his brother back into the Hive.
“One, because I’m not shoving that thing back into place, especially now that I know how heavy it is for a hunk of wood. And two, we want the dumb ones because it may take longer, but let’s face it; it’s gonna be entertaining as heck!”
Thorax could only sigh, following Pharynx towards where the guard quarters were. Metamorphosis chuckled, following his sons back inside. He smiled, taking one last look at a stone slab turned plaque, that would display the fateful prophecy for years to come. And hopefully, would carry on his son’s legacy long after.
“You did not just say that!” Thorax’s voice woke Metamorphosis from his slumber.
“Then you need to get your ears checked, because I did.”
“Argh! Pharynx, you’re the worst!”
“He says, as if he’s not already the worst!”
Metamorphosis sighed and sat up. “I take a nap for thirty minutes and the boys are fighting… I really should have seen this coming.”
Metamorphosis got out of bed and walked out into the hallway, following the direction of the voices. He traced the source to Thorax’s room, finding the two brothers muzzle-to-muzzle, glaring at each other.
“Boys? What’s going-”
“Say that again Pharynx, I dare you!”
Evidently, Thorax and Pharynx’s yelling had drowned their father’s words out.
“Alright! You’re a weak little grub!”
“No I’m not!”
“Yes you are!”
“I know you are but what am I?!” Thorax retorted, the childish expression making his brother do a double take.
“Oh you did not just-”
“Oh yes I did!”
“You little…”
“Little what, Phary?”
Pharynx froze, then growled and flared out his wings. “Only Fortuna got to call me that you little f***k!”
Thorax’s eyes widened, then, he glared at his brother. Metamorphosis’ face contorted into one of anger as he moved towards Pharynx. But before he could say anything, Thorax already had.
“You would let me call you that too you know you… you son of a b***h!” Thorax screamed
Pharynx snarled. “Oh of course, the minute you finally ditch your filter happens to be when you’re mad at me!”
“Of course I’m mad at you you-”
“Thorax May Glyder!”
This time, both brothers froze, turning to see their father glaring at them. Pharynx shot a smirk at Thorax, who looked terrified. Unfortunately for the beta changeling, Metamorphosis saw it.
“Don’t think you’re not in trouble either Pharynx Ray Elytron!”
“...Damnit.” Pharynx swore, turning to face his father.
“Thank you.” Metamorphosis looked between the two. “I can understand fighting, all siblings fight. But swearing at each other and looking about ready to physically attack each other is out of the question. Honestly, how old are you two?”
“He started it!” they said as one, pointing at each other.
“I don’t care who started it!” Metamorphosis bellowed, silencing them. “Both of you are adults! You should be old enough to be able to understand that swearing is not going to prove any kind of point and you should be able to settle your arguments without me having to come in and yell at you, is that clear?!”
Both of the brothers gulped, and nodded.
“Y-Yes dad…”
“Understood father…”
“Good.” Metamorphosis looked between them. “Now, what are you two arguing about this time?”
“He called me a weakling!”
“He said the guards would be better off with Fortuna in charge of them because I’m getting nowhere!”
“Oh tell me I’m wrong Pharynx!”
“It’s not my fault they’re incompetent!”
“Maybe they wouldn’t be if someone else more capable was in charge!”
“You take that back right now you worthless weak little baby!”
“I will not, you stupid, depressed, cross-dressing Tsundere!”
“Pharynx Ray Elytron and Thorax May Glyder you will be silent!” Metamorphosis shouted at the top of his lungs.
The two froze once again, but it didn’t last for long.
“Dad, he called me a-”
“He insulted me first-!”
Metamorphosis put a hoof to his temple, rubbing it for a minute before slamming his hoof down onto the ground. “That’s it! Pharynx, to your room, now!”
“Ha!” Thorax shot at Pharynx, who promptly punched him in the face. “Ahh! Owww!”
“Pharynx! Last warning!” Metamorphosis shouted. “Your room, now!”
“I’m going!” Pharynx shouted, storming out of the room, tail lashing in anger. Thorax glared at Pharynx as he left, a hoof pressed against his bleeding muzzle.
“Good riddance…” Thorax muttered
“Don’t think you’re getting away with this Thorax.” Metamorphosis warned his son. “I only sent Pharynx to his room because you’re already in your room.”
“But dad, Pharynx said I-”
“And what did you say to him?” Metamorphosis cut him off, and Thorax fell silent. “That’s right. You insulted him. Thorax, a fight is no excuse to call your brother any of the things you said about him.”
“I… I know… and I d-definitely shouldn’t have outed him like that…” Thorax muttered the last part, and Metamorphosis’ ears pricked.
“What was that?”
“Nothing! I’m still not apologizing!”
“And why is that?”
“Because we both know Pharynx isn’t going to.” Thorax said shortly.
Sensing he wasn’t getting anywhere with Thorax, Metamorphosis sighed and rubbed his temple.
“Alright then. You’re grounded.”
“What?! B-But dad, I’m the King!”
“And I’m your father. Besides, kingship is a duty I can handle for a couple of days, and I’m sure one of Pharynx’s competent soldiers can handle his job, because he’s also grounded. You’re not to leave this room, am I clear?”
“...Yes dad…” Thorax sighed. “But what about-”
“I’ll be looking after Apex while you’re grounded.” Metamorphosis levitated a box of tissues over to Thorax from his bedside table. “Here, wipe off that blood, and I’ll have a medic come check and see whether it’s just bleeding or your brother broke your nose.”
Thorax nodded, taking the tissues. Metamorphosis then left Thorax’s room, sighing before heading to Pharynx’s. He heard a couple crashing noises, and entered the room.
Pharynx was slamming his head against one of the walls. Metamorphosis rushed over and grabbed him, dragging him over to his bed.
“D-Dad, let me go!”
“Not until you calm down.” Metamorphosis said, then, surprisingly, Pharynx instantly relaxed in his grip. “Pharynx?”
He looked down, seeing his son had gone limp, staring blankly at the ceiling. Metamorphosis lifted him up and carefully laid him in bed. He nosed Pharynx, who stirred slightly.
“Thorax started it.”
“It doesn’t matter who started it, Pharynx, what matters is that you both continued it.” Metamorphosis told him.
“But… I… he…”
“Yes?”
“Not only did he say that my old mentor, who once admitted I’m even better than her, would be better at training the soldiers than me, but he also outed me to our own father!” Pharynx spat.
“Outed you?” Metamorphosis repeated, and Pharynx froze.
“I-I mean… uh…” Pharynx stammered, and Metamorphosis rubbed his back.
“You know you can tell me anything, Pharynx.” Metamorphosis soothed him.
Pharynx sighed, then looked down at the bed, blushing. “I… I like… cross-dressing…”
“You mean…”
“I like to put on dresses… only Thorax, Temp, and Ember know…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Well, Thorax didn’t tell me any more, even when I questioned it. He still is willing to keep your silence.”
“I guess…”
“Don’t listen to him, Pharynx. Those words came from a place of anger, Thorax would never have said it otherwise.”
“I know dad. But I’m not apologizing anyway.” Pharynx said stubbornly.
“I expected as much.” Metamorphosis stood up, heading for the door.
“That’s it?”
“Yes.”
Pharynx grinned and got up, but as he headed for the door, Metamorphosis cast a small shield with his horn, making him stop.
“What?”
“You’re grounded.”
“What?! I’m twenty-one, you can’t ground me!”
“So is your brother, and he’s grounded too.” Metamorphosis replied.
“Damnit…”
“You’ll need to work on your filter while you’re grounded.” Metamorphosis told him, heading for the door. “Do not leave this room Pharynx.”
“Can Tempest-?”
“No.”
“...Shit.”
Metamorphosis sighed and closed the door to Pharynx’s room, muttering to himself as he went to go get Apex. “This is going to be a long few days…”
Sure enough, the next day, Metamorphosis went to check on his sons, finding Thorax reading a book. He seemed alright, so Metamorphosis decided to check on Pharynx before talking to Thorax. He found Pharynx punching the wall. Metamorphosis raced over and pulled him back.
“Dad, seriously?! I need this!”
“No, you don’t.” Metamorphosis told him sternly. “Why don’t you rest?”
Pharynx groaned and stormed over to his bed. “How’s Thorax’s face?”
“Bruised, but not broken.” Metamorphosis told him, and Pharynx grunted. “You’re glad.”
“So what if I am?!” Pharynx pulled the blankets over himself. “Wimp doesn’t deserve my forgiveness, not after what he said.”
Metamorphosis sighed, then grabbed Night Fury from under Pharynx’s bed and slipped him into his son’s hooves. Pharynx hugged him angrily, and Metamorphosis nuzzled him.
“You know, I’d rather not have to do this, but you two need to learn your lesson.”
“Yeah yeah, I know…” Pharynx grumbled. Metamorphosis hugged him, nuzzling him again.
“I know you’re hurting, Pharynx, but I do want you to apologize to Thorax.”
“I can’t…”
“You can. You just need to be brave enough to make amends.” Metamorphosis gave him a gentle boop on the nose, and his son squeaked. “Heh, and I know you, my Dark Warrior, are definitely brave enough to do something as simple as saying ‘I’m sorry’.”
Pharynx blushed, then buried himself in the blankets. Metamorphosis rubbed his back gently, before heading to Thorax’s room.
“Hi dad…” Thorax sighed as Metamorphosis entered the room. He seemed to be pacing around.
“Are you alright Thorax?”
“Hungry…” Thorax trailed off, laying down. Metamorphosis walked over and hugged him, feeding him a bit of love. Changelings didn’t do well alone, Thorax especially, since he was now so used to feeling love everywhere. “Thanks dad…”
“Of course my son.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Now, do you think you’re ready to apologize to Pharynx?”
“I guess so… but I’d still rather hear an apology from him first.” Thorax said.
“If you two keep holding out for each other to apologize, then you’re going to be in your rooms for a very long time.” Metamorphosis chided him. “And if I have to be honest, I believe you owe your brother an apology first. Your words struck a much deeper chord with him than his did with you.”
“I know…” Thorax sighed, and Metamorphosis could taste the guilt rolling off him. “I-I didn’t mean to call him depressed or stupid… he’s the smartest changeling I know, honest. And I want to help when he gets depressed, n-not make it worse.”
“Which is something you should be telling him.” Metamorphosis stood up, walking to the door. “I know you Thorax, and I know you feel bad about what you said. But despite what Pharynx loves to tease us both about, you are not just my son. Your mother’s blood still runs through you, and with it comes her stubborn nature.”
Thorax buried his head in a pillow. “I hate even thinking that I’ve got part of her in me.”
“I know.” Metamorphosis looked back at him. “And trust me, you are my son and my son alone in my eyes. But I’m worried that because you each have your mother in you, if you two don’t talk things out by the time you’re ungrounded, your relationship will never be the same.”
Thorax sighed and looked out the window beside his bed. Metamorphosis sighed softly before leaving the room.
Two days later, Metamorphosis stood outside his sons’ rooms. They were no longer grounded, but hadn’t yet emerged from their rooms. Metamorphosis could understand why.
Finally, Thorax and Pharynx stepped out of their rooms, perfectly in sync. Metamorphosis gave them both a gentle smile. They smiled back at him politely, but then, they turned to each other.
“P-Pharynx I-”
“Thorax I have to-”
They spoke at the same time, and Metamorphosis chuckled softly as they blinked in confusion.
“Sorry, you go.” they said in unison. “No, you go.”
“You just go Thor.” Pharynx said, and in an instant Thorax was hugging him.
“Pharynx I’m so sorry! I’m sorry I said Fortuna was a better general, she passed her legacy to the one changeling who’s actually worthy of the position, I know that. And I’m sorry I sweared at you, you didn’t deserve it, and I’m sorry for outing you, I didn’t mean to, and I’m sorry I called you stupid, you’re the smartest changeling I know, including Ocellus! A-And I’m so, so sorry I called you depressed, you know I only want to help you when you feel like that… I’m sorry…”
Pharynx sighed and hugged back. “I’m sorry too, Thorax. You didn’t deserve to be sweared at either, and you’re not worthless. Without you we wouldn’t be here, and dad would be… who knows where. And yeah, you’re physically weak, but you’re strong in other ways, ones I should have appreciated. I’m sorry…”
Pharynx’s apology was shorter than his brother’s, as he clearly was never going to get used to heartfelt speeches, but Thorax seemed to appreciate it nonetheless. Thorax and Pharynx hugged each other tightly, and Thorax kissed Pharynx on the cheek. They then looked to Metamorphosis, who smiled at them.
“Thanks dad.” they said as one, and he laughed.
“Of course, my sons.” Metamorphosis walked over and hugged them gently. “But I do still have one question. What even started the fight in the first place?”
The brothers looked at each other, then back at Metamorphosis.
“I-I don’t remember.” Thorax admitted
“No clue.” Pharynx agreed
“Then it seems this fight was rather pointless, wasn’t it?” Metamorphosis asked, and the brothers chuckled.
“Yeah, I guess so.” Pharynx said, smiling.
“Yes. Now… Pharynx, you said you liked wearing dresses… do you have any that you really like wearing?”
Pharynx turned red, as Thorax beamed.
“He has a really cute blue one!”
“Thorax, no-”
“Show me.”
Pharynx groaned and buried his head in his hooves. Metamorphosis chuckled and rubbed his back. Just as Thorax was leading them back to Pharynx’s room, they heard hoofsteps, and shouting.
“Thorax! Pharynx! Where are you?”
“Ocellus?” Metamorphosis asked, as the nymph in question came rushing up to them.
“There you are! B-Been looking for you.” she panted
“What are you doing here Ocellus? School’s not supposed to be out for another two weeks, right?” Thorax asked
“Y-Yes, but…” Ocellus sat down, breathing heavily. “H-Headmare Twilight let me come, e-extra credit…”
“Are you alright kid?” Pharynx asked, raising a brow.
“Ran… from… train…” Ocellus panted.
“Come on, let’s take you to your room, you need to lie down.” Metamorphosis said kindly.
“N-Not yet! Can’t! Have… important… information.” Ocellus took a few deep breaths. “A-About… you… Metamorphosis.”
“What?” they all asked as one, as Ocellus pulled a worn-looking book out of her bag.
“I-I just found… proof… Chrysalis… lying… M-Metamorphosis parents… n-not changelings.”
“What?!” they all exclaimed as one, right as Ocellus collapsed.
“Ocellus!” Thorax exclaimed, as Pharynx pressed a hoof to the nymph’s neck, checking her pulse.
“She’s fine, just unconscious.” Pharynx shook his head. “She shouldn’t have run all the way here.”
“Come on, l-let’s get her to bed.” Metamorphosis said shakily, still trying to comprehend what she had said. Chrysalis lying to him about something as important as his family?
“Ooh! Pharynx has the perfect outfit for this!” Thorax exclaimed, and Pharynx turned to glare at him, blushing heavily.
“Thorax!” Pharynx exclaimed, and he blinked innocently. Metamorphosis shook his head to clear it, looking at Pharynx. “W-What?”
“It’s official. I hate you both.” Pharynx deadpanned
“Aww, but you look so cute!!” Thorax protested
Pharynx sat down and pouted, crossing his forelegs, which only made him look more adorable. He was wearing a nurse outfit, complete with the little cap on his head that most nurses didn’t even wear.
“I’m going to kill both of you.”
“But you like wearing dresses.”
“Yeah, sure, when I want to, not when you guys force me into them.” Pharynx pressed a hoof to his forehead. “Ocellus is going to laugh her head off when she sees me.”
“No she won’t.” Thorax said, pulling his brother up. “Now come on, do your job, Nurse Pharynx.”
Pharynx groaned and stood up, grabbing a pitcher of water. “Okay, okay, fine.”
Metamorphosis chuckled, he and Thorax watching Pharynx approach Ocellus with the pitcher of water. He leaned over the nymph, then smirked and dumped the pitcher of water over her.
“Eeek!” Ocellus shot up, dripping wet. Pharynx burst out laughing and she glared at him. “Hey! That’s not funn-wait, what are you wearing?”
Pharynx immediately stopped laughing and blushed, using his magic to try and unclasp the back of the outfit so he could take it off. “N-Nothing!”
Ocellus snickered, then began laughing. “A-A nurse outfit?!”
“S-Shut up, they made me do it!” Pharynx jabbed a hoof at Thorax and Metamorphosis.
“Yeah, but you already had the outfit.” Thorax giggled, making his brother turn even redder.
“Anyway, Ocellus…” Metamorphosis stepped forwards. “You came because you had urgent news? A-About me?”
“O-Oh, right.” stifling giggles, Ocellus looked around. “Where’s my bag?”
“Here, along with the book you pulled out of it.” Metamorphosis gave them to her.
“Thank you.” Ocellus took the book and opened it, flipping through the pages. “This is what I wanted to show you, Metamorphosis. Here.”
Ocellus showed him the book, as Thorax and Pharynx came over, Pharynx no longer wearing the nurse outfit. Metamorphosis took the book in his magic, holding it up so he and his sons could read the page.
“Defendant Martial Arts found guilty of treason for… ‘mating with COP’. What’s ‘COP’?” Thorax asked
“Stands for ‘Creature Other than Pony’.” Pharynx supplied, and they all looked at him. “What? I can’t know what it means? I was a general in the Old Hive, of course I knew what a bunch of this stuff stood for.”
“I don’t understand, Ocellus, how did you find this? And how does it connect to me?” Metamorphosis asked
“Headmare Twilight was telling us about the ‘Friendship Trials’ that took place back when Equestria was first formed. I was doing some studying, and I accidentally grabbed this book, which was in the wrong section. But when I found this page… keep reading.”
Pharynx brought the book closer. “Martial Arts, unicorn stallion of twenty nine, charged with mating with a non-pony, a… a changeling.”
They all looked at Ocellus, who nodded for Pharynx to continue. He looked back down at the page.
“After trial, Martial Arts confessed to mating with the changeling, who he called Divinusa, but insisted he was bewitched into loving her. He claims he had no idea what she truly was, and thus had no responsibility over the resulting egg. We have been made aware the mother has been tried by her own kind, and her punishment was execution. The same is to be given to Martial Arts.”
“There’s a photo of him on the next page. Look at it.” Ocellus told them when they looked back at her.
Metamorphosis turned the page, and his eyes instantly widened. The unicorn stallion was tall, around Tempest’s height, with purple-blue eyes, a messy red mane, and a violet purple coat.
“D-Dad, he…” Pharynx trailed off
“He looks just like you!” Thorax exclaimed. “W-Well, not exactly, b-but his coat is the same color as your carapace, and you have the same mane and eye colors…”
“That’s what I thought.” Ocellus said, getting up. “Then, I did some more research, and it turns out there was another trial that occurred around the time this one did. It was recorded because the same courthouse was used.”
“Where?” Metamorphosis asked, and Ocellus pulled out a file, holding it up to him. Pharynx opened it and read aloud.
“Divinusa Brook Thoraxis, charged with mating with a unicorn stallion, knowing the consequences of her actions and under full awareness he was of a kind whom changelings are forbidden to mate with. Divinusa accepts full responsibility for her actions, and as such will be executed on the tenth of the month. Having pleaded for the egg that came as a result of her crimes, it will be placed under the care of her sister, Votum Pharynga Chi, until the nymph has been weaned of nectar.”
“Wait, Pharynga?” Thorax glanced at Pharynx. “And Thoraxis?”
“The name similarities were far too unique to be coincidental.” Ocellus explained. “That’s why I came here. I know there are records of everyling…”
Metamorphosis was already gone, he could hear his sons following him, but ignored it, frantically running to the records room. He ran in, heading for the file drawer where he’d found his son’s records. He opened the drawer and pulled out his son’s files, setting them aside.
“Dad!” Pharynx ran in, Thorax and Ocellus behind him. Ocellus immediately noticed the brother’s files, and picked them up. She then began giggling.
“Ray and May?”
“Shut up, Ocellus Sydney Iris.” Pharynx shot at her, and she fell silent. “Dad, what are you?”
With wavering magic, Metamorphosis then lifted out two new files. He laid them down on the table in the room, and they gathered around. Thorax brought over his and Pharynx’s files, and they opened all of them.
Metamorphosis Chi Brook Named by: Aunt
Mother: Divinusa Brook Thoraxis Father: Martial Arts (pony-unicorn) Raised by: Closest relative-Votum Pharynga Chi Spouse: Chrysalis Ivy Gossamer
Rank: Royal Advisor/King Children: Pharynx Ray Elytron and Thorax May Glyder
Mother: Chrysalis Ivy Gossamer Father: Metamorphosis Chi Brook Spouse: N/A
Rank: Prince Children: N/A
--------------
Votum Pharynga Chi
Mother: N/A Father: N/A Spouse: N/A
Rank: Drone Children: Fortuna Arya Larynx
“Wait, your aunt was Fortuna’s mother?!” Pharynx exclaimed. “But… that would make her my… second-cousin?”
“No wonder she trained you, you were her kin.” Ocellus said “But this actually explains a lot.”
“Does it now?” Pharynx asked. “I mean, other than proving I was right and Thorax always did have some pony in him…”
“Hey!” Thorax exclaimed, which Pharynx ignored.
“This must be the reason Metamorphosis can’t transform.” Ocellus explained. “He’s part pony, a hybrid.”
“Meaning?” Pharynx asked
“Well… if you want an example… say you were still unreformed and you had children with Tempest.” Ocellus ignored Pharynx’s red face. “They would be hybrids, part nymph and part pony foal. So even if you were able to transform, they wouldn’t be able to, because their DNA would be a mix of pony and changeling.”
“But then Thorax and I shouldn’t have been able to transform, we’re dad’s children.”
“But I mated with your mother. She may have originally been a pony, but the Draconequus’ curse changed her DNA. She is the purest changeling of them all.” Metamorphosis reminded Pharynx.
“Which would block out Metamorphosis’ pony DNA.” Ocellus finished.
“This must be the reason most shunned me.” Metamorphosis lifted up his file. “They must have known who I really was. It explained why I never knew Fortuna was my cousin, her aunt must have forbidden her from approaching me, and I wouldn’t have remembered being raised by Fortuna’s mother when I was a baby.”
“That… sort of explains why Fortuna had a mane.” Pharynx said. “Maybe she was also born to a pony father, but her mother managed to conceal it, unlike your mother.”
“I remember that… the Golden General, we called her that when she earned the rank.” Metamorphosis murmured. “But then… Thoraxis and Pharynga…”
“Chrysalis probably knew who Votum and Divunusa were, and decided it would be ironic to name her children after her mate’s mother and aunt.” Pharynx said dryly. “Seems like the type of thing she’d do.”
“I won’t complain about that. Your names are beautiful.” Metamorphosis said. “Yes Pharynx, including your middle names.”
“Damnit… guess that means we can’t change them?”
“Why? Ray and May are funny.” Ocellus said, giggling.
“You just answered your own question kid.”
“What I can’t understand is why Chrysalis would lie to me about what happened to my parents…” Metamorphosis murmured. “We were mates, she could have been honest with me.”
“It was mother, dad. I’d be surprised if even a single word she ever said was actually the truth.” Pharynx said, and Metamorphosis gave him a stern look. “What? It’s true.”
“You’re not wrong, Pharynx, but please try to show a little respect?”
“Why?”
“Because despite the fact she was a horrible leader and even worse mother, she still gave you two life, and that might be the only good thing she ever did.” Metamorphosis replied, silencing his son.
“Dad… are you okay with this…? This new information?” Thorax asked, and Metamorphosis smiled softly.
“Knowing that my heritage was not what Chrysalis claimed it to be is a shock, but it does not change the family I already have. That’s what matters.” Metamorphosis hugged his sons, who hugged back. “I love you boys.”
“Love you too dad.” Pharynx grumbled, while Thorax embraced his father unashamedly.
“We love you too.” Thorax told him happily, and Metamorphosis looked over at Ocellus. She was standing nearby, trying not to look at them.
“Heh, come here Ocellus.” Metamorphosis said, reaching out to her. “You’re family too.”
Ocellus beamed and rushed over, joining the embrace. The four changelings held each other for a while longer, smiling.
“Hey Metamorphosis?” Ocellus asked, walking up to the unreformed changeling, who was in the library. She had returned to school for the remainder of the term, but now it was summer, and she was home for the vacation.
“Yes Ocellus?” Metamorphosis responded, looking up from the book he was reading.
“Do you know when Pharynx and Thorax’s birthdays are? I know we saw their files a couple weeks ago, but I didn’t remember seeing a birth date.”
“Yes, I noticed that as well. You know Chrysalis is not the type to celebrate anything. It’s likely she left that part out intentionally.”
“So then… when are their birthdays?” Ocellus asked, sitting beside him.
Ocellus’ eyes widened and Metamorphosis bit his lip nervously. The boys had never told him when they were born. But what if their birthdays had passed, and he hadn’t known it?
“I left before they were born… and they didn’t tell me…”
“B-But what if we missed it?!” Ocellus asked, voice rising slightly as she followed Metamorphosis’ train of thought.
“Missed what?” Tempest’s voice asked, and the two changelings looked up. The unicorn mare was walking in, Ember behind her.
“Thorax and Pharynx’s birthday!” Ocellus exclaimed. “They didn’t tell Metamorphosis when it was, and now we don’t know when it was!”
“Oh, is that all?” Ember scoffed, sitting down by them. “I know when their birthday is.”
“Same here. Phar told me.” Tempest said
“Really? When?” Ocellus asked
“May twenty-second.” Ember stated
“May twenty-first.” Tempest said at the same time.
Metamorphosis blinked in confusion. “Girls, that’s not possible… they’re twins, they were born on the same day.”
“So one of you is wrong.” Ocellus concluded, and Tempest and Ember both bristled.
“Well, it’s not me!” they said at the same time. “Hey! I’m never wrong!”
“Hey! Girls, come on, that’s our thing.” Pharynx’s voice said as he and his brother entered the library.
“What are you talking about?” Ember asked, blinking in confusion. Thorax’s eyes flashed slightly, then…
“Saying the same thing at the same time, what else?” Thorax and Pharynx said in unison. “It’s part of being twins.”
“See? Proof they’re twins.” Ocellus told Ember and Tempest
“Uh… and that was relevant how?” Pharynx asked, raising a brow.
“Tempest and Ember each said two different dates when we asked them if they knew when your birthday was.” Metamorphosis explained.
“Yeah, speaking of which, Thorax, tell Tempest it’s May twenty-second.”
“I mean, he’s wrong, Pharynx told me he was born on May twenty-first.”
“Relax, you’re both right.” Pharynx told her, laying down on his stomach by Tempest.
“What? But how?” Ocellus asked
“I have to admit Pharynx, it does seem strange.” Metamorphosis said
“Well, sure, until you get the full story.” Pharynx said, shrugging. “See, I was born on May twenty-first. Specifically, I was born at eleven fifty at night.”
“And I was born ten minutes later.” Thorax joined in, sitting by Ember. “Specifically, I was born when the clock struck midnight, so technically…”
“You were born the next day!” Ocellus realized. “Now it makes sense!”
“And I’m guessing you two were only told the dates of your boyfriend’s birthday specifically, and logically assumed his brother was born at the same time.” Metamorphosis said to Ember and Tempest, who nodded, looking a bit sheepish.
“Eh, don’t blame you, it is a bit rare for twins to be born on different days.” Pharynx shrugged
“Why did you want to know, anyway?” Thorax asked
“Oh, uh, two reasons.” Ocellus said. “One, so I would know if it had already passed or not… and two, because, well, I wanted to know what your Zodiac signs are.”
“Zodiac whats?” Pharynx asked
“They’re astrological signs based on specific constellations in the sky, said to determine personality traits and future relationships.” Metamorphosis told him, and the others stared at him. “What?”
“How do you know that?” Ocellus asked
“...I read books?” Metamorphosis offered, raising a brow at her. “You realize Pharynx and Thorax had to get their intelligence from someone, right?”
“Not specifically, but it’s said certain Zodiac signs are more compatible with each other than they are with other Zodiac signs. Like… a creature with the Taurus sign and a creature with a Cancer sign are more compatible than a Leo and a Sagittarius.”
“And judging by the calculations, you’re both Gemini, and both are a rising Capricorn.” Ocellus said, then giggled. “Ironic, actually.”
“Why?” Pharynx questioned, and Metamorphosis answered.
“Gemini is the sign of the twin, Pharynx.” he said, and the two blushed.
“So, there’s a specific personality trait assigned with Gemini?” Ember asked
“Quite a few.” Ocellus told her. “Geminis can be gentle, affectionate, curious, adaptable, learn quickly, and are comfortable with exchanging ideas.”
“So, Thorax in a nutshell.” Pharynx said
“Not so fast Pharynx. Geminis can also be nervous, inconsistent, indecisive, serious, thoughtful, and restless.” Metamorphosis told him, and he blushed “That’s why most Geminis are said to be two-faced, they quite literally are a twin in and of themselves, you never know which personality you might get on any given day.”
“Seems like the personalities are split pretty evenly with Pharynx and Thorax, however.” Tempest noted
“I’ve seen them switch, on occasion.” Metamorphosis told her. “Though sometimes it’s more subtle, easy to miss.”
Thorax and Pharynx blushed, giving their dad gentle glares, which he simply smiled at, chuckling.
“Hey, that makes me wonder… how old are you then, Meta?” Ember asked
“‘Meta’?” Pharynx echoed
“What? You want us to call him ‘Metamorphosis’ all the time? Meta’s shorter.”
“...Touche.”
“Anyway, Meta, how old are you?” Ember asked him.
Metamorphosis closed his eyes and did some mental calculations. “I’m thirty-eight.” he said after a minute.
“Wait, but… if Thorax and Pharynx are twenty-one, then Chrysalis would have had them when you were… seventeen?!” Ocellus exclaimed
“Chrysalis was a very impatient changeling.” Metamorphosis told her. “And very ignorant of anyone’s wishes,” he added mentally.
“That is totally messed up.” Ember said. “I mean, it’s technically rape, right?”
“More like pedophilia.” Tempest corrected her.
“It’s neither.” Pharynx retorted. “Technically speaking, changelings have always cared more about the love between two creatures than age. As long as dad wasn’t like, ten or less while Chrysalis was an adult, it was legal by changeling law. Though my respect for Chrysalis, if I had any left, just dropped some more.”
“At least she gave me the two of you.” Metamorphosis said, and the brothers smiled at him.
“Hold on… if Pharynx is the oldest, and his birthday is May twenty-first… his birthday would be in five days.” Ocellus said. “And Thorax’s the day after… how would we celebrate that?”
Pharynx shrugged. “Don’t know, we’ve never had to before.”
“We could celebrate on the night of Pharynx’s birthday.” Metamorphosis told her. “Then at midnight, we’ll do things like eat cake and open presents.”
“So it’s still Pharynx’s birthday but also Thorax’s birthday.” Tempest nodded in approval
“Yeah, that sounds good! What do you think Phar?” Thorax asked, looking at Pharynx
“I personally don’t see the point of a birthday party, but whatever, if you want to do it it’s fine.” Pharynx told his brother, standing up. “Anyway, Tempest, Ember, and I were going to go spar.”
“Have fun.” Metamorphosis told them as they left the room.
“Dad, do you think it’s weird Pharynx doesn’t want a party?” Thorax asked
“No, I don’t think so Thorax, he’s not one for celebrations.” Metamorphosis replied
“Still… something’s bothering me about his neutrality to it…” Thorax said, standing and following the others out.
“Huh… it seems the Gemini twins have a deeper connection to each other than usual.” Ocellus remarked, and Metamorphosis watched Thorax go thoughtfully.
Chapter 38: Celebrate With Spirits High, The Faithful Gemini
“So we’re all agreed this has got to be perfect, right?” Ocellus asked
“Of course it’s going to be perfect, Ocellus.” Ember said “Who knows those two better than us?”
“Touche.” Ocellus shrugged and levitated over a clipboard. “Well, according to Professor Pie, birthday parties need certain things in order to be considered fun.”
“Can’t we just ask Tempest?” Ember glanced at the unicorn, who let out a laugh.
“As if I had time to celebrate a specific day of the year while I was on the run. I was lucky if I could just remember what day of the week it was.” Tempest told her.
“Bringing me back to my point.” Ocellus tapped a quill against the clipboard. “A good birthday party should have cake, presents, decorations, and above all, friends and loved ones.”
“Okay, so we have the last one.” Ember said. “What about everything else?”
“Presents should be easy.” Metamorphosis said, laying near Ocellus. “And the chefs would likely be happy to make a cake for them. Besides, let’s just say Phalange owes me a favor…”
“Yeah, because you screamed at him for what he said about Pharynx until he said he’d do anything you asked.” Ocellus muttered just loud enough for both girls to hear, and they stared at Metamorphosis with confused and impressed looks.
“Anyway… the decorations?” Metamorphosis asked, cheeks a bit red.
“I can probably get some from Pinkie’s party planning cave.” Tempest replied. “As soon as I figure out where the entrance is, it’s surprisingly well-guarded for something she built.”
“Wait, if she has the party dates for everyone, I wonder why she hasn’t learned it’s nearly Pharynx and Thorax’s birthday.” Ocellus wondered
“Probably because she’s not their close friend. She’s friends with everyone in Ponyville, that’s why she knows their birthdays. Not just because she’s Pinkie Pie.” Tempest reasoned. “Still, fair point. I can probably get her to grab some stuff out of her cave for me… as long as I make her promise not to try and help.”
“Why’s that?” Metamorphosis asked.
“Uh, well, let’s just say Professor Pie’s party tastes are… um…” Ocellus trailed off.
“Thorax might enjoy them, or at least elements of her parties, but Pharynx would be miserable the whole time.” Tempest supplied
“Ah. Understood.” Metamorphosis said. He wanted both his sons to be happy on their birthday, not have one upset and the other entertained.
“Anyway, I better go do that now before I have to do a patrol around the Friendship School. Just because it’s empty for the summer doesn’t make it less of a target.” Tempest said, standing up.
“And I told Thorax I’d spend some time with him before I have to go back to the Dragonlands. See you two later.” Ember said, picking up her scepter and heading out of the library with Tempest.
“I’m going to go check on Pharynx, okay?” Metamorphosis told Ocellus.
“Alright! I’ll get started on the presents and find an ideal location for the party.” Ocellus said cheerfully
“Alright Ocellus.” Metamorphosis chuckled, it was clear to see Ocellus was enjoying herself as she skipped out of the library. Metamorphosis stood up and walked out as well, heading for Pharynx’s room.
“Hey dad.” Pharynx said as he entered.
“Hello son.” Metamorphosis sat down by him. “Earlier, you didn’t seem very eager to celebrate your birthday.”
“Well, yeah, obviously. It just seems kind of egotistical, you know?” Pharynx shrugged. “Like, hey, I survived another year, give me presents.”
“Pharynx, it’s about celebrating a life.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Your life.”
Pharynx blushed. “I… guess so… but still…”
“I promise Pharynx, this party isn’t just going to be for your brother. There will be plenty of things that you enjoy as well.” Metamorphosis said, and Pharynx’s ears pricked.
“Like sparring?”
“I’m sure Ember and Tempest would be more than happy to spar with you.” Metamorphosis replied, and he smiled, then blushed.
“A-And, uh… dresses?”
Metamorphosis giggled and nuzzled him, smiling at the remembrance of the recent discovery that Pharynx liked wearing dresses. “Of course my Dark Warrior.”
Pharynx smiled softly, hugging him. “Alright dad… I guess a party won’t be too bad.”
Metamorphosis smiled at him, giving him a nuzzle. Pharynx huffed but didn’t pull away. Metamorphosis continued smiling, knowing it would be fun, no matter what Pharynx’s pessimistic side told him.
“You two ready?” Ocellus asked happily, and Metamorphosis nodded, Apex jumping around nearby. The girls were getting Thorax and Pharynx from the Hive.
The party was being held in the woods outside the Hive, so that Thorax and Pharynx wouldn’t walk in on them while they were setting up. Despite it being eleven at night and far past either Ocellus or Apex’s bedtime, Metamorphosis had allowed them to stay up.
“Gran’pa Mety, I see them!” Apex said, dashing over.
“Come on Apex!” Ocellus said, she and Apex rushing over to the table of presents and the cake.
Metamorphosis chuckled and stood in the middle of the clearing, as Tempest and Ember walked up, Pharynx and Thorax behind them.
“Yay!” Thorax exclaimed as he saw the decorations, which were streamers of cyan and lime green, the color coordinated wrapping on the presents, and the balloons. He rushed over and scooped up Apex, unintentionally keeping him from taking a swipe at the cake.
“Well Pharynx?” Metamorphosis glanced at him.
“Temp and Em already promised a sparring session. I thought we could make a show out of it, last creature standing wins.” Pharynx said, and Ember and Tempest grinned at him, which he returned.
“Heh, alright.” Metamorphosis smiled and nuzzled his son. “I’m sure you’ll win.”
“Oh, we’ll see.” Ember said, punching Pharynx in the side. “Ready?”
“Born.” he responded with a grin.
Metamorphosis chuckled and trotted over to Thorax, Ocellus, and Apex to watch. Ocellus was eating a cookie from the plate on the table, smiling.
Soon, it was nearing midnight. Apex had dozed off after Pharynx, Ember, and Tempest’s sparring match. Pharynx had won, and all three were sporting light bruises and a couple cuts. Ocellus and Metamorphosis led the three over to the cake, waking Apex so he could see.
The cake itself was chocolate, which Metamorphosis knew was both brother’s favorite flavor. The icing was white, but bore an image of the new Changeling Kingdom Flag, along with diamond designs, three on each side, in the colors of the brother’s chitin and carapace. Violet, red, and cyan, then purple, lime green, and orange.
“Heh, ready, boys?” Metamorphosis asked as Ember used her fire to light the candles, making Apex giggle. The brothers smiled and nodded.
“It’s eleven fifty-eight, ready?” Ocellus asked.
“No singing.” Pharynx warned, and Metamorphosis chuckled.
“Alright, alright.” Metamorphosis said as Ocellus began counting down.
“And in five… four… three…” Ocellus counted down, as the others watched the brothers in anticipation. “Two…”
Thorax and Pharynx then blew out the candles at the same time, just as Ocellus was about to say one.
“It worked!” Thorax exclaimed, and Pharynx rolled his eyes, though he allowed his brother to hug him.
“Heh, happy birthday my sons.” Metamorphosis said, hugging them.
“Thanks dad.” Thorax said, smiling and hugging back. Pharynx joined in after a moment, and Metamorphosis smiled, holding his sons tight. It was clearly a perfect birthday for the two.
“Boys, I know you wanted to open presents back at the Hive, but Ember and I’ve got some gifts for you we want you to see now.” Tempest said, trotting up to Metamorphosis and his sons as they broke the hug.
“Oh, sure! Where are they?” Thorax asked eagerly.
“Come on, over here.” Ember said, and the girls led the two away, into the trees.
“Meta?” Ocellus asked, walking up with Apex. “Apex and I are tired-”
“No ‘m no’!”
“So I was wondering if we could head back to the Hive?” Ocellus continued, ignoring the younger nymph that was currently pouting on her back.
“Of course Ocellus, I’ll walk you two back. Just let me get the boys.” Metamorphosis told her, following the direction the four adults had gone.
“You finally got them?” Thorax’s voice could be heard through the trees.
“Thanks to Ember, don’t know where we would’ve found the gold otherwise.” Tempest replied, chuckling.
“Or been able to melt the gold.” Ember’s voice put in
“Right, right. Anyway… ready?” Tempest asked
“We’ve been ready for a while, girls.” Pharynx’s voice said, a slight laugh in his tone.
Metamorphosis blinked in confusion and stepped forwards. Ember and Tempest stepped towards the boys, Tempest holding a small box in her magic. Ember opened it, pulling out two thick golden bands. Golden rings, with the word Armentum etched onto each one.
“They’re better than I thought they’d be!” Thorax exclaimed happily, and Tempest chuckled, glancing between them.
“Alright, ready?” she asked, and Ember nodded.
Ember took one ring, while Tempest took the other. Tempest walked to Thorax, while Ember walked to Pharynx. The two bowed their heads slightly, and Tempest used her magic to slip the ring onto Thorax’s horn, while Ember put the ring she held onto Pharynx’s horn.
“Your turn.” Tempest told the boys, who smiled at her.
Pharynx took the box in his magic and he and Thorax pulled out… two more rings. Metamorphosis crept closer, surprised. The ring Thorax held was hanging from a gold chain, while the one Pharynx had was much smaller than the others. The two walked over to the girls, swapping girlfriends. Thorax went to Tempest and slipped the chain over her head, letting the ring rest just over the black cloak she wore. Pharynx then lifted Ember’s left claw in his hoof and slid the smaller ring onto it.
“There.” Thorax said, and the others.
Thorax nuzzled Tempest, before walking over to Pharynx and Ember. He then wrapped a foreleg around Pharynx’s shoulders and kissed his cheek, pulling Ember over with his other foreleg and letting her lean against him. Tempest chuckled and walked over as well, rearing up to join Thorax in kissing Pharynx’s cheek.
Metamorphosis stared at the four in shock, backing up. This turned out to be a bad idea as he stepped on a twig. Pharynx, cheeks now extremely red, looked up with a slight glare.
“Who’s there?”
Metamorphosis sighed, then stepped out and into the open. Ember and Tempest immediately backed away from the boys. Thorax and Pharynx turned red and Thorax began stammering.
“U-Uh… d-dad, this isn’t w-what it looks like.” Thorax said, and promptly received glares from the others. “O-Okay, it’s exactly what it looks like.”
“You four…” Metamorphosis stared at the golden rings. “Are you… engaged?”
“More like married. Just took a while to get all four rings made.” Tempest explained, wrapping her forelegs around Pharynx’s neck.
“But… then… that would mean…” Metamorphosis trailed off.
“Dad, we, uh…” Pharynx stepped forwards slightly and Tempest moved to let him walk to his father. “Look, we meant to tell you, we just… weren’t sure how to.”
“I can understand that, I just…” Metamorphosis chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck. “I didn’t expect you two to get married before I could tell you I knew you were dating.”
“W-What?!” both of them asked, and Metamorphosis chuckled
“Come on you two, you know me, I’m the reason you have any intelligence whatsoever. It didn’t take much interaction with you two to figure out this was more than what you claimed to be normal for family members. Also, you are aware of what I taste when I witness romantic love, right?”
“Uh… I don’t think you’ve ever told us-” Thorax began
“It was a rhetorical question, Thor.” Pharynx told him, and he blushed sheepishly.
“When I witness romantic love, I taste chocolate coffee cake.” Metamorphosis then chuckled as he looked at the four. “And it’s all that’s been coming off you two alone for a while.”
Both of them blushed, looking at each other.
“So… you’re okay with this, is what I’m hearing.” Ember said
“Well, I’m a little upset there wasn’t a wedding invitation…”
“That’s because there wasn’t a ceremony.” Pharynx replied. "We're not even officially married!"
“Oh, I wish there had been, you looked adorable in that wedding dress.” Tempest told Pharynx, who turned bright red. Metamorphosis chuckled.
“Can we have a wedding?” Thorax asked
“I would be honored to walk either of you down the aisle.” Metamorphosis told Pharynx and Thorax, who blushed. “But I’m not mad at either of you.”
“What’s going on?” Ocellus walked over, and Pharynx sighed.
“Dad found out about the herd.”
Ocellus grew a grin as wide as a cheshire cat’s. “I told you so! I told you to tell him, but noooo!”
“Yeah yeah, we get it Ocellus, shut up.” Pharynx muttered. Metamorphosis chuckled.
“Come on, all of you, let’s go back to the Hive. It’s late, and you two can open presents tomorrow.”
“Alright dad.” Thorax smiled at his father as they walked by him. “Thanks… for being so open about this…”
“Of course my son.” Metamorphosis said as he followed them. “I will always support you, no matter what you do.”
Thorax and Pharynx smiled at him, before trotting ahead to walk beside their girlfriends… or rather, herdmates. Metamorphosis smiled softly at the two, but internally frowned.
“If only I could work up the nerve to tell them my own secrets…”
Thorax smiled as he led Metamorphosis down the hall. “There’s someone special I really want you to meet.”
“But haven’t I already met everyone?” Metamorphosis asked, referring to when he was introduced to the Hive.
Thorax chuckled. “Not quite.”
“Wait… is this the nursery?” Metamorphosis asked as Thorax led him down a familiar hall.
Thorax smiled knowingly and entered the room. It had changed since how it looked in the Old Hive. It was lined with crevasses in the walls, for egg clutches to be nestled in. The floor was covered with a thick layer of moss. However, one thing made Metamorphosis concerned. It was empty.
“Thorax… where are the nymphs?”
Thorax suddenly emitted a wave of remorse, and Metamorphosis frowned.
“Are they…?”
“Wait!” Thorax held up a hoof. Metamorphosis startled and looked down.
A small nymph rested in the moss, curled in a ball. His lime-green chitin blended perfectly in against the moss. The only signs he was there was the small horn on his head, his red carapace, and his red tail. Thorax smiled kindly and reached, gently hooking his foreleg under the nymph’s stomach and scooping him up.
“Apex…” Thorax whispered
The nymph rolled in his sleep, revealing that he had diamond shapes on his chest. He wiggled and opened his eyes slowly, revealing ruby red eyes. His eyes opened wide when he saw Thorax.
“Papa Thorax!” the nymph reached for him, and Thorax chuckled as he hugged him. “Missed you!”
“Heh, I missed you too my little hyper sprite.” Thorax nuzzled him, then turned to face Metamorphosis.
“Y-You’re a…” Metamorphosis began to say, but was distracted by a whimper.
The little nymph was curled up, cradled in Thorax’s foreleg. He was staring, wide-eyed, at Metamorphosis. Thorax smiled and nuzzled the nymph.
“Apex, this is Metamorphosis, Pharynx and I’s father.”
Apex stared at him in awe. Metamorphosis gave him a gentle smile, but the little nymph snuggled into Thorax.
“Y-Your daddy?” Apex whispered, and Thorax nodded, shifting his hoof. “Is tha’ where you wen’? ‘Cause Sillia an’ Fema sai’ you were goin’ somewhere bu’ they didn’ say where.”
“Mhm. Dad…” Thorax looked up to him. “Meet Apex. My adopted son.”
Thorax kissed Apex on the forehead, and Apex giggled, reaching up and batting at his muzzle gently. Thorax chuckled, then looked to Metamorphosis.
“You… you adopted a nymph?” Metamorphosis asked “But… what about his parents? Are they-”
Apex began whimpering, and Thorax sat down with him. He reached, repetitively running a hoof down Apex’s forehead, off the bridge of his muzzle. Apex’s eyes drooped and he yawned, reaching and wrapping his tiny hooves around Thorax’s hoof, leading it to his muzzle. Thorax chuckled and shifted as Apex guided his hoof into his mouth, where he began sucking on it.
Thorax nuzzled the little nymph as he drifted off. He then glanced up at Metamorphosis, and spoke in a low whisper.
“Apex’s parents were killed during the Great Change, an explosion of love caused a cave-in. Most of the other nymphs and eggs were crushed too. There aren’t many new eggs now, and the remaining nymphs are probably with their parents.”
“So you adopted him… when you could have let any other changelings raise him…”
Thorax blushed. “I… I couldn’t help it… he’s so sweet… in a mischievous, adorably rambunctious way…”
Apex yawned and nestled closer.
“You’re not wrong… he seems very peaceful now though.”
“Heh, wait until he’s more alert.” Thorax chuckled. “But I love him for who he is, of course.”
“Heh, that’s what it means to be a parent.” Metamorphosis murmured, leaning over to nuzzle Thorax.
“Thanks dad.”
“So, did this little one start the ‘Papa Thorax’ nickname?” Metamorphosis asked, and Thorax chuckled.
“Yep. The rest of the Hive started using it after he did.” Thorax nuzzled the nymph.
“Mm… Papa Thorax?” Apex mumbled, and Thorax looked down.
“Yes Apex?”
“Mm… snuggles?”
“Heh, in a minute sweetie.” Thorax nuzzled him. He giggled and settled back down. “So, you’re not upset?”
“Heh, how could I be upset when my son is becoming such an amazing and wonderful changeling?” Metamorphosis nuzzled Thorax gently. “I’m proud of you, for doing this for him.”
“Thank you dad… I really thought he deserved a father… and, well, we bonded. I love my little hyper sprite.” Thorax said, smiling down at the drowsy nymph.
Metamorphosis smiled at the nymph as well. “So, what does Pharynx think?”
“Heh, he loves Apex, in his own way. Now, I’d better get this little one to bed.” Thorax smiled, and Apex’s ears pricked.
“Snuggles now?”
“Heh, yes honey, snuggles now.” Thorax smiled at the nymph and nuzzled him.
Apex smiled and kept Thorax’s hoof in his mouth. Thorax, however, slowly retracted it so he could stand.
“Come on, let’s go to my room, I’m sure you got tired of sleeping alone in the nursery.”
“Mhm… love you Papa Thorax…” Apex nuzzled up against Thorax, who trotted out of the nursery, still cradling him.
“I love you too Apex.” Thorax smiled at him.
Thorax entered his room, and Metamorphosis looked around. It had a large bed on one side of the room, the rest was empty save for a desk and a door that Metamorphosis assumed led to a private bathroom. The bed itself had pillows lining wherever it touched the walls.
Apex giggled and yawned as Thorax settled down in the bed sphinx-style, laying the nymph inbetween his forelegs.
“Alright, sleepy time my little nymph.”
“Can I have Blizzard?” Apex asked sleepily.
“Of course Apex.” Thorax smiled and turned.
He ignited his antlers to open a chest tucked behind the bed. Metamorphosis hadn’t noticed it before. A small white teddy bear was lifted out of it and brought over to the nymph. Apex beamed and grabbed it out of Thorax’s magic, pulling it close and cuddling it.
“Heh, he seems to really like it.” Metamorphosis commented.
“It’s his favorite toy.” Thorax leaned down and nuzzled Apex. “You must’ve missed him, didn’t you?”
“Uh-huh. Sillia wouldn’ le’ me come ge’ him ‘cause you weren’ here to a’prove i’ or somethin’.” Apex mumbled, cuddling the bear.
“I’m sure Blizzard missed you too.” Thorax said
“The grub’s gonna end up spoiled at this rate.”
Metamorphosis turned at the sound of his other son’s voice. Pharynx had entered the room, which made Apex look up as well. He reached out a hoof to Pharynx as the beta changeling got closer.
“Uncle Pharynx!”
“Heh… hey grub.” Pharynx nuzzled him gently. Apex giggled and lightly batted at his muzzle.
“Missed you Uncle Pharynx.”
“Yeah, missed you too, grub.” Pharynx looked up at Thorax. “Seriously, he’s going to be so spoiled at the rate you’re going.”
“Heh, that’s why I have you to help me.” Thorax teased “Besides, Apex will be a nice little nymph, I know it. He may grow up very privileged but he won’t let it go to his head. He’s too sweet and precious for that.”
“True…” Pharynx glanced at Metamorphosis. “I take it you’ve been introduced to the grub?”
“Yes, he seems very nice.”
Thorax chuckled and leaned down to nuzzle the nymph, who yawned hugely. “Time to go back to sleep, Apex.”
“Heh, come on my little hyper sprite.” Thorax traced a hoof down the nymph’s forehead again, off the bridge of his muzzle. “All good nymphs go to sleep.”
“An’ good papa changelings don’ make their nymphs go to bed.” Apex grumbled, cuddling the bear. However, he yawned and allowed Thorax to place his hoof by his mouth.
“Go to sleep my baby boy.” Thorax whispered, letting Apex begin to suck on his hoof.
“Mm… o-okay…”
Metamorphosis smiled softly, then looked to Pharynx and gestured for them to leave the room. Thorax and Apex deserved time to themselves, having only just reunited as father and son.
------------------------------------
Metamorphosis, very happy after a peaceful night’s sleep, entered Thorax’s room. He smiled as he observed the scene. Thorax was lying on his side now, Apex still held in his forelegs. The nymph shifted and slowly began to stir.
Apex opened his eyes as Metamorphosis drew closer. He rubbed his eyes and yawned.
“Hello Apex.”
“H-Hi…” Apex looked out at him from behind Thorax’s forelegs.
“I heard you’re a very rambunctious little bug.” Metamorphosis said
Apex brightened. “I can do rambuncshous.”
“Heh, okay.” Metamorphosis paused. “But first… those nicknames… ‘Papa Thorax’ and ‘Uncle Pharynx’ right?”
“M-Mhm…” Apex nodded
Metamorphosis smiled. “So then what would my nickname be?”
Apex hesitated. “Um… you’re Papa Thorax’s daddy… so… Gran’pa Mety?”
Metamorphosis chuckled. “I love it, little one.”
Apex smiled. “Can we play?”
“I don’t know, what about Thorax?”
“Papa Thorax knows I leave, he doesn’ worry.” Apex explained.
Something told Metamorphosis that Thorax in fact did worry. He simply didn’t reveal this to Apex in fear of making him think he’d done something wrong.
“How about we play in here?”
“Okay!” Apex whispered excitedly. He wiggled out of Thorax’s hold, stopping to nuzzle the alpha changeling affectionately before hopping down.
Metamorphosis watched Apex trot over to the chest he’d seen the night before. Apex dug through it, pulling out toys and setting some aside. Metamorphosis chuckled.
“I see why Pharynx made that comment about you being spoiled.”
“Whas’ sp-oil’d?” Apex asked
“Heh, it means that you get everything you want.”
“I don’ get everything I want.” Apex said, pulling out a griffon plushie and moving it around like it was flying.
“Well, has Thorax ever told you no?”
“Yeah… bu’ he’s bad at i’. Uncle Pharynx tells me no all the time though.” Apex explained.
“Heh, well, it’s nice to know they understand how to tell you no. And you’re very cute, I see why Thorax has a hard time.”
Apex nodded and pushed a toy that seemed to be made of woven feathers towards him.
“Heh, what’s this?”
“I dunno. Queen Novo gave i’ to me when Papa Thorax an’ Uncle Pharynx took me with them to Moun’ Aries. They take me places a lot.”
Metamorphosis chuckled. “I imagine they must do that to spend time with you.”
“Mhm! An’ it’s fun ‘cause I always get presents!” Apex said, then trotted over and snuggled up against Metamorphosis, who chuckled.
“Are you sure you don’t want to go back to Thorax?”
“Mhm! I wanna play with you… Gran’pa Mety.” he added shyly
Metamorphosis smiled and wrapped a hoof around Apex, lifting him up and nuzzling him. Apex giggled and reached, hugging him. Metamorphosis passively took in some of the nymph’s seemingly endless love, making him twitch and giggle.
“Hehe, tickles Gran’pa Mety!”
“Heh, sorry little one.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him.
Apex smiled and reached out, booping him on the nose. Metamorphosis blinked in surprise, while Apex giggled at his reaction.
“Gran’pa Mety?” Apex asked, and he shook himself.
“Heh, yes Apex?”
“How come you’re no’ transformded like us?” to prove his point, Apex snuggled down into Metamorphosis’ foreleg and pressed against his leg holes. “Didn’ Papa Thorax tell you how?”
“Yes, he did Apex.” Metamorphosis lifted Apex closer. “He showed me how to transform. But for some reason, I was unable to.”
“You couldn’?”
“Mhm.”
Apex hugged Metamorphosis, smiling. “I love you an'way.”
Metamorphosis chuckled and hugged back. “Thank you Apex.”
Apex giggled and nuzzled up to him. Metamorphosis smiled down at him.
“So, Apex, have Thorax and Pharynx told you about their… their mother?”
Apex froze, then looked away.
“E’ery nymph knows who Chr-Chry-she is…” Apex mumbled
“Oh?” Metamorphosis looked down at him in concern. “What’s wrong Apex?”
“Sh-She’d a’ways c-come for me…” Apex buried his head in Metamorphosis’ shoulder. “Sh-She came, an-an’ she brought Uncle Pharynx wi’ her!”
“To do what, Apex?”
“Y-You don’ know?”
“No, I must have already left the Hive at that point. But if you told me…?”
“Sh-She… she came to b-beat me…” Apex mumbled, and Metamorphosis’ eyes widened.
“Sh-She what?”
“She called i’ m-makin’ ‘xamples of th-the weaker subj’cts. Sh-She used to do i’ to Celly too, b-but Uncle Pharynx says she on’y started d-doin i’ after Papa Thorax left… a-an’ we couldn’ stop i’…”
Metamorphosis held Apex close. “I’m sorry Apex, I’m sorry that it happened and that I asked.”
Apex whimpered and rubbed his eyes. He looked to be fighting back tears, and Metamorphosis stood. He carried the little nymph back to Thorax, setting him on the bed.
“N-No… I-I don’ wanna go back to bed…”
“Shh…” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “I just think you need Thorax right now.”
Apex nodded, whimpering. He crawled over and cuddled up to Thorax again, making him stir.
“Hm?” Thorax sat up, rubbing his eyes. “Dad?”
“Morning Thorax.”
“P-Papa Thorax…” Apex nuzzled up to him.
“Apex? Sweetie, what’s wrong?” Thorax lifted him and nuzzled him. Apex cuddled against him.
“I… I asked him if you and Pharynx had told him about your mother.”
“Oh… oh, Apex…” Thorax rocked the little nymph as he began to whimper. “It’s okay honey…”
Thorax began soothing the nymph, giving him his hoof to suck on. Apex sucked on the alpha changeling’s hoof, tears flowing but beginning to dry up. Thorax nuzzled him, then looked up at Metamorphosis.
“I had no idea, really. I don’t think she’s ever done what he said she did back when I lived here.”
“I understand.” Thorax murmured, looking down at the nymph.
“You… do?”
“I… I used to think those punishments were confined to me, because I was the weaker son in her eyes. I was shocked and angry when I found out she’d done it to Ocellus and Apex. I see Ocellus as a daughter, in a way. She has parents, but I can’t help but see her as a daughter anyway. To find out Chrysalis had mainly targeted both the nymphs I see as good as my own children…”
Metamorphosis nuzzled him. Thorax sighed, starting to cry.
“I… I mean… I guess it just proves how alike they are to me… she took her anger out on the ‘weaker of the Hive’ just like she would with me…”
“Thorax, I think you need to go back to sleep.” Metamorphosis said
Thorax nodded and laid down, adjusting Apex in his hooves. They both closed their eyes as Metamorphosis settled down behind Thorax. He began stroking his son’s head, humming to him softly. Thorax smiled and held Apex closer.
“Heh… I think Pharynx inherited your singing voice too…” Thorax murmured, and Apex giggled softly.
“Hehe… mhm… Uncle Pharynx ‘s a good singer…”
Metamorphosis smiled and wrapped his hooves around Thorax, holding his son close as he fell back asleep.
-------------------------------------------
Metamorphosis woke up again some time later. He didn’t remember falling asleep, but he must have. He heard voices, and looked up to see Thorax had moved. He was now lying on his stomach on the floor, watching Apex put away his toys.
“Apex, I’m sorry if dad…”
“I’s okay Papa Thorax.” Apex laid the hippogriff feather toy back in the box. “I’s like when you hafta explain ‘bout… ‘bout me, so you dis’ract me.”
“Oh, Apex…”
“I ge’ i’ Papa Thorax.”
The nymph bounded over, clutching the griffon plushie as well as Blizzard. He wagged his little tail as he settled down in Thorax’s forelegs. Apex set the plushies nearby, then lay on his stomach, like a mini-sphinx staring up at a larger one.
“I don’ care if your daddy looks like her. An he looks more like Uncle Pharynx. So he’s special.”
Thorax smiled and nuzzled him. “Alright Apex. As long as you’re okay with him.”
“Mhm!” Apex then shifted and snuggled up to Thorax. “Gran’pa Mety’s fun.”
“Heh, Grandpa?” Thorax asked
“Mhm, ‘cause he’s your daddy.”
Thorax giggled and nuzzled the nymph. Metamorphosis decided to make it known he was awake, hauling himself up.
“Oh, dad!” Thorax looked up brightly.
“Gran’pa Mety!”
Metamorphosis chuckled as he trotted over, and the nymph reached for him. Apex scrambled out of Thorax’s forelegs and clambered onto Metamorphosis’ back.
“Now, how about some breakfast, my little hyper sprite?” Thorax suggested
“Yay! Bacon an’ pancakes!” Apex cried, opening red wings from under his carapace and fluttering over to Thorax.
Thorax smiled as the nymph landed on his head. “Alright, let’s go. Coming dad?”
“Heh, of course Thorax.”
Metamorphosis followed Thorax, who carried Apex on his head. They met up with Pharynx in the cafeteria. He was hunched over at one of the tables.
“Pharynx?” Thorax asked
“Wha-?!” Pharynx shot up, then yawned. “Oh, it’s just you.”
“Are you alright Phar?” Thorax asked in concern.
“Oh, yeah, I’m fine. Just up late.”
“Nightmares again?” Thorax asked as he sat down beside him, letting Apex hop onto the seat on his other side.
“I-what-? Uh-n-no.” Pharynx stammered as Metamorphosis sat by him, boxing Pharynx in between his father and brother, then giving him a nuzzle. “Daddd…”
“Heh, sorry Pharynx.” Metamorphosis gave him a side-hug.
“Geez…” Pharynx groaned.
Thorax chuckled and leaned in, nuzzling him as well. “You want snuggles tonight?” he asked in a low voice.
“I… um…” Pharynx blushed and glared at the table.
“Well?”
“I… I wouldn’t say no…”
“Aww, heh, cuddlebug.”
“Sh-Shut up.” Pharynx muttered, as Apex jumped over and sat in Pharynx’s lap.
“Don’ you wanna snuggle with us Uncle Pharynx?”
“I… dangit Thorax…” Pharynx glowered at Thorax.
“Heh, what? Not my fault Apex is so adorable.”
As if to prove his point, Apex made his eyes big and stuck out his bottom lip.
“Oh no, not the puppy-dog eyes! Apex, no!”
“Come on, he’s just trying to get you to join us so you have a good night’s sleep.”
“I… oh fine.” Pharynx muttered, and Apex beamed, giggling as he went back to Thorax. “Dang grub.”
Thorax and Metamorphosis just chuckled, Apex nuzzling up to Thorax. Pharynx sighed and leaned against Thorax, who slipped a foreleg around him.
“We do need to talk about these nightmares Pharynx, they’re getting more and more frequent.”
“Whatever…” Pharynx sighed, half-lidding his eyes and pressing against him.
Metamorphosis smiled at the brothers, as Apex trotted over to him. He lifted up Apex and cradled him as the brothers talked to each other in low voices.
“Heh, I take it you see this a lot?” Metamorphosis asked Apex, who nodded.
“Mhm. They’re funny.” Apex giggled
“Heh. They’re brothers.”
Apex nodded and nuzzled Metamorphosis. “Can we have chockit chip pancakes?”
“Heh, with extra bacon?” Metamorphosis suggested, raising a brow.
“Yes!” Apex cried, eager to exploit Thorax’s distraction to get more food.
Metamorphosis chuckled. “Oh Apex…”
Well, from the ponies that he’d befriended as they traveled, he had learned many parenting stories. And it seemed that grandparents liked doting on their grandchildren. So Metamorphosis felt no shame.
“Hehe, we haven’ spen’ much time toge’er ye’, bu’ I love you a’ready Gran’pa Mety.” Apex nuzzled up to him.
Metamorphosis smiled, hugging him. Apex giggled and cuddled up to him.
“I love you too Apex.” Metamorphosis smiled. “Now how about we get those pancakes?”
“Yay!” Apex nuzzled him.
Metamorphosis chuckled, embracing the new member of his family. He then headed off with him to get the nymph’s breakfast, leaving the brothers to continue their conversation.
After the group had made it back to the Hive, Ocellus offered to look after Apex for the night. The brothers decided to open presents in the morning, as it was very late. Metamorphosis watched his sons’ mates enter Thorax’s room, before approaching the two.
“Goodnight you two.” he murmured, kissing them each on the forehead. “Don’t stay up too much later, alright? You still have presents to open tomorrow.”
“Heh, we won’t dad.” Pharynx smiled at him. “Night.”
“Goodnight.” Metamorphosis turned to head to his own room, then glanced over his shoulder at them and grinned. “I’ll be looking forward to walking you down the aisle, my Dark Warrior.”
Pharynx turned bright red, stammering and blushing as Thorax grinned and planted a kiss on his cheek. Metamorphosis chuckled and headed off, smiling.
The next morning, Metamorphosis was, for a change, woken up not by his chipper youngest son, but by a soft warmth against his side. He smiled, tasting the familiar tang of semi-sweet meyer lemons. He leaned over and nuzzled the lump.
“Good morning Pharynx. Everything alright?”
Pharynx sat up slightly, yawning. “I’m fine, I just wanted to come spend some time with you… and I might’ve fallen asleep…”
Metamorphosis chuckled, then noticed a flat, boxed present lying at the foot of the bed. Pharynx blushed and lifted it up in his magic, bringing it over.
“I-I also wanted to open your present… f-for just you and me, okay? No one else sees?” Pharynx asked, and Metamorphosis smiled.
“Of course Pharynx, if that’s what you would like.” Metamorphosis smiled at him. “Go ahead, my son.”
Pharynx smiled and tore open the bright green wrapping paper, letting it fall to the ground. The lid of the smooth white box underneath the paper was slowly and cautiously lifted up by Pharynx as well. As soon as he peeked inside, he let out a gasp and stared at Metamorphosis in shock.
“Dad, you didn’t have to…”
“I wanted to.” Metamorphosis leaned over to nuzzle him, smiling as his son stared down at the item like it was a hard-earned prize.
An elegant violet dress with light red trimmings was laying in the box. But it wasn’t just any ordinary dress. A very familiarly designed “R” was sewn into the inside of the collar, visible even though the dress was folded up. Pharynx lifted it in his magic.
“You seriously got me an original dress by Rarity? T-That had to have cost a lot…”
“Well, it might not have been entirely made by Rarity herself.” Metamorphosis admitted, and Pharynx looked over at him. “You see, Rarity has just recently taken on a new intern for her Ponyville boutique… specifically, an orange dragoness that just so happens to be dating Ocellus.”
“Smolder?” Pharynx blinked. “I mean, I guess that kind of makes sense after the whole thing with that book during Hearth’s Warming, but…”
“It turns out she likes designing dresses as well.” Metamorphosis nuzzled Pharynx. “I asked Ocellus to deliver a note to her for me, detailing what I knew you would like. She made it using Rarity’s advice and materials. Officially, it’s labeled as Rarity’s brand, but Smolder designed it.”
“Wow… dad… thank you…” Pharynx hugged him tightly. “You didn’t have to…”
“I know. But I wanted to.” Metamorphosis smiled at him. “I knew it would make you happy.”
Pharynx smiled at him. “Thanks dad…”
“Of course, son. Now, we shouldn’t keep your brother waiting, where is he?”
“Still passed out in a pile with the girls last I checked.” Pharynx chuckled, sitting up. The ring on his horn glinted in the light and Metamorphosis smiled. It suited him well.
------------------------------------------
“Papa Thorax, Uncle Pharynx, do mine nex’!”
The hyperactive nymph was practically bouncing on his hooves as he watched Thorax pick up the hastily wrapped present with the two’s names scrawled on it. Metamorphosis chuckled and picked up Apex, holding the energetic nymph still.
“Did you wrap this all by yourself sweetie?” Thorax asked the nymph kindly.
“Celly helped, bu’ on’y cause she wouldn’ le’ me do i’ myself.” Apex responded, and Thorax nuzzled him affectionately before helping Pharynx unwrap the gift. Ocellus, who was sitting by Tempest and Ember, gave the younger nymph an approving nod.
Metamorphosis smiled as he saw the gift, a sculpture of Thorax and Pharynx made out of colored clay. It was hardly the best looking sculpture, but the eager smile on the little nymph’s face showed he’d truly put his best effort into it. Thorax smiled and picked up Apex, hugging him.
“Thank you my little hyper sprite, it’s wonderful.” Thorax said, and Apex cheered.
Pharynx then took the next present that Ocellus gave him. The brothers opened the box, pulling out a flag striped in different shades of green and blue, with a center symbol of a heart with the infinity symbol within it. Ocellus giggled mischievously-it was a version of the polyamorous flag.
“This may have been my plan for getting you two to admit you were polyamorous to da-” Ocellus broke off and cleared her throat. “-to Meta.”
Metamorphosis chuckled, smiling at Ocellus. Thorax and Pharynx blushed, and Metamorphosis gave them a gentle smile. However, it was tinged with a little sadness, that his sons were discovering themselves while he remained the same, shrouded in doubt and fear.
“Dad, is something wrong?” Thorax’s voice drove him out of his thoughts, and he looked up.
“No, no, nothing’s wrong, I just… needed to think about some things.” Metamorphosis assured his son, but Pharynx didn’t seem convinced.
“Come on dad, we know you well enough by now to know you’re hiding something, and you just gave off a wave of sadness. What’s wrong?”
“I-It’s not important Pharynx-”
“That’s bullsh-”
“Pharynx!” Ocellus and Thorax both said as one.
“Fine, fine. Whatever. What’s up dad?”
“Nothing that we need to talk about right now-”
“Tell. Me.” Pharynx demanded, eyes glinting.
“Pharynx, I really don’t want to talk about this, it’s you two’s birthday, and I feel like this would just ruin things-”
“Does it have anything to do with why you spaced out when they pulled out the flag?” Ember asked, and Metamorphosis flinched. “Ah, so it does.”
“Dad, tell us. Now.” Pharynx snarled.
“Alright… Alright…” Metamorphosis sighed and closed his eyes. “Boys… I… I’m not… straight, I… I’m gay.”
The first thing Metamorphosis saw when he opened his eyes was the tip of Pharynx’s tail as he left the room. Metamorphosis bit his lip nervously and glanced at Thorax. His youngest son was staring at him in shock.
“D-Dad… y-you’re… but then…” he stammered
“Why did you mate with Chrysalis if you were…?” Ocellus trailed off, staring at him.
Metamorphosis sighed and lowered his head. “It’s complicated. Let’s find Pharynx…”
“I think he needs to be alone right now.” Tempest said, glancing in the direction he’d gone.
“Well, he needs to hear this. I need to explain.” Metamorphosis replied, leaving the room and following Pharynx’s scent.
Metamorphosis traced Pharynx’s scent to his room, and found the beta changeling pacing around angrily, throwing a kick or punch at the walls as he passed them. Metamorphosis took a steadying breath before walking in.
“I don’t want to talk to you.” Pharynx snarled without looking at him.
“We need to.”
“No we don’t.” Pharynx kept his back to Metamorphosis. “After all, why should we talk about something you hid from us for this whole time?”
Metamorphosis winced. “Pharynx-”
“Of course you didn’t tell us sooner. Of course, it makes perfect sense.” Pharynx’s body shuddered. “Perfect sense that you didn’t tell your own sons even though they came out to you!”
“Pharynx, please-”
“Did you think it would be better to wait? Hope we’d just never notice you didn’t eye a mare even though you mated with our mother?!”
“Pharynx it’s not like that-!”
“I don’t care what it’s like!” Pharynx whipped around, and Metamorphosis realized that the shudders he’d mistaken for rage had actually been suppressing tears.
“Pharynx-”
“You didn’t tell us! You left us completely in the dark even after we trusted you by outing ourselves! You should have told us!”
“You’re absolutely right.”
Pharynx froze in place, stunned as his father so bluntly responded.
“You were the first I should have told, and would have told… I just felt the time wasn’t right. I was wrong. I offer my deepest apologies for that Pharynx. I should have said something right away.
“But… you still… you had us… what were we then? A regret…? A… stupid mistake?”
Metamorphosis watched silently as tears began to fall, and immediately embraced his son. Pharynx struggled and began punching at him, but he didn’t relent. He simply continued hugging Pharynx, until the beta changeling succumbed to his hold and simply lay stiff in his hooves, crying.
“Pharynx Ray Elytron, I promise you, I can and will explain everything. But I can’t do that unless you will agree to listen. Please, my Dark Warrior, just hear me out, and if you’re still upset with me you can ignore me for the rest of my life, and I won’t bother you again.” Metamorphosis told his son with such certainty that Pharynx’s eyes widened. “Will you hear me out?”
“...Fine.” Pharynx agreed, and Metamorphosis gave him a sad smile.
“Come on then. Let’s rejoin the others, and I’ll tell you all.”
------------------------------------
“Alright, we’re ready.” Thorax said. He and the others; minus Apex, as the conversation was deemed too adult for him; were curled up on his bed, while Metamorphosis stood before them.
“Alright…” Metamorphosis took a breath before beginning to speak. “I never knew for sure until recently what my sexual preferences were. Back during the old days, due to my appearance- and we now know, my unusual heritage-I had no friends. No one wanted to approach me, so I was never able to… discover myself.”
“Okay, that makes sense, but couldn’t you, you know, figure that out when you mated with Chrysalis? Surely you realized you didn’t love her.” Thorax asked
“That’s the thing.” Metamorphosis sighed and closed his eyes. “Up until my… interaction with her, after the nightmare incident with Pharynx… I was sure that I loved her. I see now what really happened… Chrysalis was the first changeling to ever be nice to me. And when she told me that she loved me… she managed to convince me that I loved her too. I’m not sure how she did it. Hypnosis, manipulation… somehow. She made me think I loved her back.”
“Why though?” Ember asked
“She wanted heirs.” Metamorphosis glanced at his sons, and while Thorax looked down sadly, Pharynx merely glared back at him. “That’s why she convinced me I loved her.”
“So we are mistakes.” Pharynx spat, and the others all turned to him. “Hard to want kids with a bitch you didn’t even love.”
“Just because I didn’t really love her doesn’t mean I don’t love you.” Metamorphosis snapped right back, and Pharynx fell silent. Metamorphosis sighed and continued. “After the incident where I confronted Chrysalis… that’s when I realized it. I didn’t love her. I meant what I said that day, I could no longer see how I ever loved her, for more than one reason.”
“Both because she hurt your children and because…” Ocellus trailed off.
“Because in all honesty, I had never considered her attractive.” Metamorphosis finished for her.
“But then how did you figure out it was because you were gay?” Tempest asked
“I, well… it was confusing at first, but… it was after the boys came out to me…” Metamorphosis gave a soft smile. “Things began to click into place after that… I didn’t recall ever finding any female attractive before, even though when I was younger I had witnessed plenty of other teenaged changelings doing anything to get their hooves on ones they deemed beautiful.”
“There’s got to be something else.” Ember spoke up, and Metamorphosis blushed.
“Yes, well, before that… I noticed how when Thorax and Pharynx were introducing me to Shining Armor-”
“You thought he was hot didn’t you?” Pharynx asked bluntly, and they all turned to look at him. “What? He may be a meathead and a sore loser in a sparring match but I’m not going to deny he’s pretty attractive.”
“Well… yes…” Metamorphosis admitted with a blush. “I found him handsome, and while I originally dismissed it… a number of male changelings I spotted made me feel the same way, and…”
“You figured out you were gay.” Thorax concluded softly. Metamorphosis nodded.
“By the time I was sure, it was too late to say anything. I hid it from you because I didn’t know how to tell you.” Metamorphosis sighed and glanced at Pharynx. “I understand completely if you’re mad at me.”
Pharynx sighed and stood up, walking over to him. Metamorphosis watched him silently.
“...I may be very mad at you right now, but… I’m not dumb enough to keep hating you for being scared to say anything.” Pharynx said after a minute. “You don’t deserve that, dad.”
Metamorphosis brought him in for a hug, and this time his son didn’t pull away. He smiled slightly, feeling the others join him. Pharynx hesitated, then spoke again.
“In all honesty, I… I haven’t been completely straight-”
“Well you’re not straight, are you?”
“Shut up Ocellus. What I mean is… I… I figured out recently that I might be… genderfluid… but prefer a male pronouns… so… genderfluid… pronouns he/them?” Pharynx tried
“If that’s what you feel fits best with you, then those are the pronouns we’ll use.” Metamorphosis told him, and Tempest smiled, kissing Pharynx on the cheek.
“Agreed. We love you, both of you, no matter what.” Thorax said. Pharynx and Metamorphosis smiled, the elder chuckling softly.
“Ocellus?” Metamorphosis looked into her room, and the young female looked up at him.
“Oh, hi Metamorphosis. Did you need something?”
“Well, yes, in a way…” Metamorphosis sat down on Ocellus’ bed, beckoning for her to join him. She sat beside him and he gave her a gentle smile. “You remember a couple days ago?”
“When you came out to us, yeah.”
“Before that, actually.” Metamorphosis prompted. “Thorax and Pharynx opened your present and you…”
Ocellus blushed and looked away. Metamorphosis placed a hoof on her shoulder.
“...You almost called me dad.” Metamorphosis said
“Yeah, I remember… I-I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to, I just wasn’t thinking-”
“Ocellus, I’m not here to ask you to apologize.” Metamorphosis cut her off, and she stared at him. “I’m just… a little surprised. I remember Thorax telling you after…”
“That he thinks of me as a daughter… I know. I’m flattered, really, but… I don’t know… it’s confusing. I always sort of saw him and Pharynx as older brothers. I’m not sure if that means I’m Thorax’s daughter or the twins’ sister, I… I don’t know…”
Metamorphosis put a hoof around her in a side-hug. “Well, what do you want, Ocellus? What is your dream family like?”
“Just… a family that loves me… who are there for me and encourage me… a-and if I had some siblings that would be nice, I miss Capillarie and Scorpia so much… a-and I want parents… real ones who care about what I have to say. Who don’t just pawn my baby siblings off on me to do who knows what… I want them to support me…”
“Who would you want to be in who’s place in your family?”
“I’m not sure… Apex is kind of like a brother, I guess, but he’s so young and playful… he would remind me a bit too much of Capillarie and Scorpia if we were like siblings… Pharynx is in no way my uncle. He’s way too much of a pest to me… he’s pesky, but at the same time I like it when he annoys me and I tease him back, because it just means we love each other…”
“What about Thorax?”
“Brother. He’s nice and friendly to me, but he’s more like a brother than a father. A father can be your friend, but he doesn’t act like one.”
“...And me?”
Ocellus tensed slightly, clearly worried she might answer in a way that would upset him. “I… Apex calls you grandfather, but you only act that way with him… you… you kind of are more like how Thorax acts to the Hive. The… father…”
Ocellus looked up at him, and Meta smiled softly. “Then it sounds like you’ve already made your decision.”
“...Can I call Pharynx ‘big-little brother’? It’ll seriously tick him off.”
Metamorphosis laughed softly. “You should take that up with him, Ocellus.”
“Fine.” Ocellus smiled happily and stood up. “I’ll go call him that now and see how he reacts. Wait here.”
Metamorphosis chuckled and nodded, allowing the teenaged nymph to trot happily out of her room. He smiled softly and looked around at it. The bookshelves were covering most of the wall space, a vanity and a closet taking up only about a fourth of the space. He didn’t get a chance to admire much else, however, before he heard shouting and mischievous giggling. Evidently, Pharynx had been nearby.
Sure enough, Ocellus burst back into her room, nearly collapsing with laughter. Pharynx charged in after her, an annoyed look on his face.
“But see, you’re smaller than Thorax so you’re big and little! Get it?” Ocellus forced out between giggles.
“Har-de-har-har.” Pharynx snorted dryly, recognizing he couldn’t do much if he wanted to without hurting the nymph. “It wasn’t that funny… anyway, what was that for?”
“What do you mean? I was just saying hi to my brother.” Ocellus said, batting her eyes at him innocently.
“Wait, what?”
“Brother!” Ocellus exclaimed, latching onto him as he yelped in surprise.
“Ocellus, get off me!” Pharynx yelped, glancing around and spotting Metamorphosis. “Dad, help! My personal space is being invaded!”
Metamorphosis chuckled, holding in laughter. “Oh be nice Pharynx, your sister just wants a hug.”
“Since when was she my sister?!”
“Since five minutes ago!” Ocellus replied cheerfully. Pharynx stared at her, then at Metamorphosis, who smiled at him as innocently as he could manage.
“...Dad… What. Did. You. Do?”
“Nothing…” Metamorphosis said, trying to play innocent. Pharynx gave him a deadpan look. “Ocellus and I were just talking about what role she would like to play in our family, Pharynx.”
“And she chose…”
“Pesky little sibling number two!” Ocellus wagged her tail. “It has almost as many lines as pesky brother number one!”
“I-wait. Who’s pesky brother one?”
“You!”
“Ocellus!”
Ocellus giggled mischievously as Pharynx glared at her. Metamorphosis chuckled and stood up, going over to them.
“So you only asked her for now, right? Like, you haven’t officially adopted her yet?”
“That’s right Pharynx, but I certainly could officially adopt her if she wanted me to.” Metamorphosis replied, and Ocellus beamed and nodded eagerly.
“Fine… but I’m still going to call you a shrimp.” Pharynx told Ocellus, who grinned at him.
“But then what will you call Thorax? Big brother?”
“Stop it!”
“Stop it!” Ocellus mocked
“Quit it Ocellus!”
“Quit it Ocellus!”
“Dad, make her stop!”
“Dad, make her stop!”
“I’m a loudmouthed idiot!”
“You’re a loudmouthed idiot!”
Pharynx immediately shut his mouth, realizing Ocellus had tricked him at his own game. Metamorphosis laughed and stepped over to nuzzle his son, consoling his wounded pride. Pharynx smiled lightly, and Ocellus reared, so she could look up at the two of them better. Metamorphosis smiled, nuzzling her, and she nuzzled him back. Pharynx rolled his eyes, but smiled at the two.
“Happy now, Ocellus?” Pharynx asked her, and she beamed.
“Why yes Phary, I am.”
“As am I.” Metamorphosis agreed, and indeed he was. He smiled, happy that his family was growing. After all, that just meant more to love.
“What?!” Metamorphosis got up immediately. “Tell me what you know.”
“Nothing! I went to go get her for breakfast and she was gone! Not even a note like the last time she ran away to be with her friends!” Thorax was starting to look angry, and Metamorphosis took a step back as Pharynx entered the room, yawning.
“Thorax, take a breath and calm down, please.” Metamorphosis told him calmly.
“B-But she could be in danger!”
“Who could be in danger and why must it be so important that you disturbed my sleep?” Pharynx asked, stifling a yawn.
“Ocellus is gone! She didn’t leave a note and she could be anywhere!”
“...Too bad. Can I go back to bed now?”
“Pharynx! Be serious!”
“I am being serious!”
“Boys!” Metamorphosis called, getting their attention. “Pharynx, if you don’t have something helpful to add to this conversation, go back to sleep.”
“Terrific.” Pharynx trotted over to them, then flopped onto Metamorphosis’ bed. The father chuckled softly as his son promptly curled up like a cat and closed his eyes.
“Dad!”
“I’m sorry Thorax, but you know Pharynx needs sleep before he can be beneficial to important discussions.”
“I know, I know… still, I’m worried a-and mad, Ocellus can’t rush off like that!”
“Technically, she can.” Pharynx grunted, not opening his eyes. “Since we adopted her, she’s technically a princess now, and royalty can do what they like regardless of who likes it or not.”
“Not the point!” Thorax stomped a hoof impatiently. “Where could she be…?”
“Oh, I don’t know Thorax.” Pharynx began, raising his head and giving his brother a look. “Where could Ocellus possibly have gone when she’s not in the Hive, it’s almost time for her school to start again, and the one other time she ran away, she left to be with the friends from school?”
Thorax blinked, then facehoofed. “Right… how could I have forgotten… I’ll just go down there-”
“Thorax, no. You need to calm down before you leave. You don’t want to snap at Ocellus, you might regret it.” Metamorphosis said.
“Alright… so who should go…?” Thorax asked, glancing at where Pharynx lay on the bed.
“Oh, don’t look at me.” Pharynx said immediately, yawning. “I’m going to need coffee before I do anything helpful. Or more sleep. That works too.”
“I’ll go.” Metamorphosis kissed his eldest son on the forehead, then nuzzled Thorax. “Why don’t you join Pharynx in getting some sleep, Thorax? I’ll handle this.”
“Alright dad, if you’re sure…” Thorax sighed and laid down beside Pharynx, who was already asleep again.
“Don’t worry Thorax, I can handle it.” Metamorphosis sighed softly and headed out of the room. “She is my daughter now…”
As Metamorphosis flew to Ponyville, he reflected on what Thorax had told him. It wasn’t like Ocellus to leave like this, she was a good nymph. While Thorax had told him about the last time Ocellus had run away from the Hive, he couldn’t see a reason she would leave without a warning this time. As Metamorphosis landed on the outskirts of Ponyville, he began to understand Thorax’s anger. Not only was this a long flight just to go and fetch her, but there was no possible explanation for why she had come here.
“Princess Twilight?” Metamorphosis asked loudly, walking into the School of Friendship.
“Oh! Metamorphosis! What are you doing here?” Twilight asked, seeming startled as she trotted up to the unreformed changeling.
“Thorax noticed Ocellus was missing and when I saw how upset he was I offered to-”
“Of course they didn’t tell anyone where they were going.” Twilight sighed, beckoning to him. “Follow me, I know where they went.”
Metamorphosis blinked in confusion, but heeded her words and followed her. They left the school, and began heading for the forest on the outskirts of the town. Twilight took off and Metamorphosis followed her lead. The two flew over the forest as Twilight led him to a rocky cliff leading down into a deep ravine.
“This way.” Twilight called, leading him from the air, flying down to a cavern opening in one of the cliff walls. Metamorphosis could see Ocellus within the cave, surrounded by her friends, and his frown deepened.
“Ocellus!” Metamorphosis called out sternly, landing with a slight thud as he hit the ground.
Ocellus squeaked in alarm and in a flash of light, she sat on the ground as a small rock. Twilight giggled softly, and while Metamorphosis wanted to join her due to the sheer adorableness of Ocellus’ rock form, he couldn’t. He strode up to the rock and stared down at her sternly.
“Ocellus, what were you thinking young lady? Thorax and I were worried sick, you need to tell us where you’re going before you leave! The last time this happened there was almost a war!” Metamorphosis exclaimed, and Ocellus transformed back shyly.
“It was an emergency! I-I’m sorry… d-dad…” Ocellus stuttered nervously, causing her friends to stare at her in shock.
“Wait, since when was he your-” Gallus began, only for Smolder to elbow him in the side. Metamorphosis sighed softly.
“It’s okay Ocellus, just please ask next time. Now come on, we have to go back to the Hive.” Metamorphosis told her.
“Wait! She can’t leave yet!” Smolder dodged in front of Metamorphosis as he tried to lead Ocellus away. “We have a… uh… Dragon Quest!”
“But she’s not a dragon.” Metamorphosis said, closing his eyes in resigned sterness as he heard a familiar noise behind him. “You know what I mean Ocellus.”
The nymph transformed back from her dragon form with a sigh. Yona stomped a hoof.
“Yona not let dad changeling take Ocellus away! This quest for all Yona’s friends! Need to help the tree!”
“And it might take a while.” Sandbar added
“Please can we stay Headmare Twilight, pleaseeee?” Silverstream begged, and Twilight glanced at Metamorphosis, who gave her a slight nod.
“Well, if you all get permission from your families and leaders, then I suppose it’s alright.” Twilight agreed after a moment. Gallus stepped over, holding out three sheets of paper.
“You want that permission slip in triplicate or is one enough?” Gallus asked. When they all stared at him, he merely shrugged. “What? I like to be prepared.”
“Aww! A griffon after my own hea-”
“-Gruff usually tears up the first two.” Gallus finished. Twilight, who had just placed a hoof over her heart, touched, dropped it and gave a sigh.
Metamorphosis smiled softly, beckoning to Ocellus. “Come on then my bookbug, let’s get back to the Hive to alleviate Thorax’s worries, and have him sign that form.”
Ocellus blushed and nodded, then turned and snagged a form from Gallus’ claw before taking off. Metamorphosis chuckled and followed her, waving to the princess before leaving with Ocellus.
“Daaad, did you really have to call me that?” Ocellus asked with a groan the minute they were out of earshot of the others. Metamorphosis smiled at her.
“Of course Ocellus, I thought you liked it.”
“I-I do, but… they didn’t even know you’re my dad yet!” Ocellus exclaimed, and Metamorphosis pulled her closer with a hoof.
“I know, but just humor your dad, okay? I can’t do it to Thorax and Pharynx in public because they’re leaders, and Pharynx would have my carapace if I tried.”
“Okay…” Ocellus glanced at the form, then back up at him with a slight smile. “You know, you could save us a lot of trouble and just sign this now-”
“Let’s go young lady, we can discuss your punishment when we’re back at the Hive.” Metamorphosis replied curtly, and Ocellus sighed.
“It was worth a shot.”
When the two arrived back at the Hive, Metamorphosis was pleased to find Thorax seemed much calmer now-and Pharynx seemed more awake. The two were with Apex in the throne room, Pharynx sunk low in a crouch that the nymph was trying to mimic.
“Dad! Ocellus!” Thorax scrambled up from his throne and rushed over. “Is everything okay?!”
“Everything’s fine Thorax.” Metamorphosis replied, as Ocellus stepped in front of him shyly. “Ocellus and her friends need to assist Twilight with something in Ponyville, and she was a bit overeager to get there quickly.”
“I-I need you to sign this permission slip, Thor…” Ocellus said, holding it out to him. Thorax took it and looked over the form.
“And don’t worry, she will be grounded for quite a bit until she has learned her lesson. Won’t you, bookbug?” Metamorphosis asked, and Ocellus nodded sheepishly.
“Well, alright then.” Thorax said, grabbing a quill from a small storage compartment by the throne and signing the form. “Here you go, Ocellus.”
“And here’s my signature.” Metamorphosis joined in, quickly taking the quill and signing his own name before giving the slip to Ocellus. “Don’t be gone too long though, or we’ll have to send Pharynx out to fetch you.”
“Oh, don’t! He’ll tease me in front of my friends!” Ocellus protested, and Pharynx chuckled, straightening up.
“In that case, please, stay out as late as you like.” Pharynx laughed, and Ocellus stuck her tongue out at him.
“Whatever Phar.” Ocellus hugged Metamorphosis around the neck, smiling at him. “I’ll be back as soon as I can, I promise. Bye, see you later, I love you dad!”
With that, Ocellus was gone. Metamorphosis chuckled and trotted over to Apex, picking up the nymph. He smiled as he looked in the direction Ocellus had gone. Metamorphosis decided he would wait for Ocellus, however long she took. She was his daughter, he wanted to be there for her.
----------------------------------------------
Ocellus trotted back into the Hive that evening. She made her way to her room, stopping when a voice called her name. Metamorphosis trotted up to her, smiling softly.
“How did things go?” he asked, and she smiled wearily.
“Great, but I’m exhausted. We fought for a good hour on how to go about our task, and then once we finally worked together, it took the remainder of the day to get things completed. On a related note, there’s now a big shiny crystal treehouse in the Everfree forest.” Ocellus said, and Metamorphosis chuckled.
“It sounds like you had a long day. I don’t suppose I could tempt you into staying up a little later via some warm tea and cookies?”
“Aww, did Pharynx throw a tea party again?” Ocellus asked jokingly, and Metamorphosis chuckled.
“Come on my silly bookbug, let’s go get some tea. You look like you could use something to relax with.”
Ocellus smiled as she sat in the throne room with Apex. The two nymphs were drawing something on large papers.
“How’s you’s Celly?” Apex asked, spitting out a crayon.
“I think it’s coming along nicely.” Ocellus said, as Apex put his in her face.
“Wha’ ‘bout mine?”
“I-It’s very nice Apex.” Ocellus told him, and he smiled.
“What’s very nice?” Metamorphosis asked as he walked into the throne room with Pharynx and Thorax. Ocellus and Apex quickly shoved the papers out of view.
“Uh… Apex’s pouncing!”
“Yeah! Jus’ like Uncle Pharynx show’ded me!” Apex said, sinking down and pouncing. Thorax squeaked as the little nymph collided with him, knocking him to the ground.
Pharynx burst out laughing. “Ha! Never gets old!”
“Pharynx, help me!”
“Nah, I’m good.”
“Pharrrr!” Thorax whined slightly, and Apex giggled, perching on his chest. “Apex, sweetie, could you let me up?”
“Sor’y Papa Thorax, bu’ mut’ny!” Apex cheered. However, as the little nymph pranced about on Thorax’s stomach, Metamorphosis leaned over and nipped him up by the back of his neck. “Hey! Gran’pa Metyyyyy!”
“Heh, sorry Apex, but there will be no mutiny today!” Metamorphosis chuckled, rubbing the nymph’s head.
“Yeah, come on Apex, we have to go do that… thing… now…” Ocellus said, standing up. Metamorphosis noticed she had some folded-up papers in her hoof. “Remember?”
“Oh yeah! Bye Papa Thorax!” Apex said, dashing off, Ocellus close behind him. Thorax blinked in confusion as he sat up.
“U-Um… that was strange… right…?” Thorax asked, and Metamorphosis nodded.
“Eh, seemed pretty much like Ocellus to me.” Pharynx shrugged.
“Really Pharynx? You don’t think it’s a little bit strange that she came here for the weekend instead of spending it with her friends?” Thorax asked
“Maybe she felt like visiting us for the weekend.”
“Why are you covering for her?”
“I’m not. I just don’t really care.” Pharynx deadpanned, trotting out of the room, though he paused to call over his shoulder. “But I agree, those two are planning something.”
Metamorphosis and Thorax glanced at each other, identical worried looks on their faces.
“Let’s keep an eye on them…” Metamorphosis murmured, and Thorax nodded immediately.
The father and son did their best to keep track of Ocellus and Apex throughout the day. However, it seemed that the two were constantly one step ahead of them. If Metamorphosis and Thorax followed them to the Feelings Forum, they were gone by the time they got there. If they caught the nymphs eating in the cafeteria and headed for them, the two would slip away.
“I give up.” Thorax sighed, collapsing down on his throne. “We’ve followed those two around all day and the most we’ve learned is that apparently Pharynx’s training has improved their hiding abilities.”
“Proud as I am to hear a compliment, why are you so worried anyway?” Pharynx asked, coming in.
“Because they’re up to something! W-What if they’re avoiding us because they’re in trouble? O-Or what if they’re mad at us? Pharynx, they could be mad at us!” Thorax exclaimed, and Metamorphosis, sensing his younger son was on the verge of a panic attack, rubbed his back gently.
“It’s alright Thorax, I’m sure they’re not mad at us. But they are definitely up to something…” Meta murmured, and Thorax whimpered. Pharynx facehoofed.
“You two are overreacting. Dad, Thorax, relax, it’s Ocellus and Apex. They may be mischievous and adorable, but they’re not evil. They’re probably just plotting some silly prank or something. Don’t worry about it and just accept it.”
Metamorphosis took a breath to compose himself, chuckling softly. “Thank you Pharynx, I needed that…”
“No problem dad.” Pharynx nuzzled him, then glanced at Thorax. “You. Stop fussing and do something actually beneficial, like, oh, I don’t know, looking over the patrol schedules with me that we were supposed to be doing an hour ago?”
“Oops…” Thorax chuckled sheepishly, getting up. “Sorry Pharynx, come on, let’s go do that.”
“I’ll come with you two, I don’t have much else to do.” Metamorphosis said.
“No, it’s fine dad.” Thorax smiled at him kindly. “You know Phar and I really appreciate your help, but you should be able to do things by yourself.”
“Maybe you’re right… it’s probably time I found something to occupy myself with besides reading.” Metamorphosis sighed, smiling at his sons. “Well, I’ll see you two later.”
With that, the three changelings departed. While Thorax and Pharynx headed to Pharynx’s office, Metamorphosis wandered around a little. He eventually found himself heading into the kitchens. He shrugged and walked in, looking around. Soon enough, one of the kitchen changelings, Labrum, spotted him.
“Oh, hello Metamorphosis!” she said cheerfully. “Can we help you?”
“O-Oh, I was just wandering around, I was trying to think of something to do with my free time…” Metamorphosis looked around, and Labrum cleared her throat.
“Well, we could use some help with the baking today, a couple of the chefs went home early.”
“I’d be happy to assist, Labrum. Just let me know what you need me to do.” Metamorphosis said, and Labrum led him over to the baking area with a smile.
A little while later, Metamorphosis had pulled a fresh batch of cupcakes out of the oven. They looked a lot better than his first couple attempts, and he smiled proudly. He left them to cool and went to fetch the icing from the storage area, when he heard Ocellus’ voice coming from the kitchen.
“-So, what do you think?”
“I can certainly talk you through the process if you’d like to do it yourselves. Are you sure you wouldn’t want some help?” Labrum’s voice responded.
“Yes, it has to be just us. We’ll be careful though, I promise.”
“Well, alright then. But I’m insisting to be there to at the very least supervise. I won’t have you two burning down my kitchen because you forgot to turn off a stove.”
“Yes ma’am.” Ocellus said chipperly, as Metamorphosis came back in. The nymph was standing with Labrum by the door, Apex on her back. She glanced over and saw Metamorphosis, then squeaked, saying a hurried goodbye to Labrum before dashing off.
Metamorphosis sighed, brushing it off. He began icing the cupcakes, rather pleased with himself. “Maybe this could be my new hobby… it’s fun…”
That night, Metamorphosis sighed as he laid down in bed, exhausted. After helping the chefs with the baking, the unreformed changeling had been convinced by Pharynx to train with him and Thorax for a while. Tired and feeling significantly weaker than before, Metamorphosis stretched slightly, curling up.
“Dad?” Thorax wandered into his father’s room, and the elder looked up.
“What’s wrong Thorax?”
“Do you think I could… stay here for a bit…? Apex wanted to sleep over in Zenex’s room tonight, with Hero. I-I’m kind of lonely…” Thorax said, and Metamorphosis smiled gently.
“Of course Thorax, there’s plenty of room, my Love Bug.” Metamorphosis assured him, and Thorax beamed, climbing into the bed and snuggling up against his father from behind, as he was much too tall for Metamorphosis to hold him comfortably.
“Thanks dad…” Thorax yawned, closing his eyes. Metamorphosis smiled and stared out the window, listening to his son’s soft breaths as he fell asleep.
Soon, more hoofsteps sounded, just as Metamorphosis was drifting off. He opened his eyes slightly, seeing Pharynx climbing into bed beside him. He smiled and chuckled wearily, and Pharynx looked over at him, lavender eyes glowing in the dark.
“I couldn’t sleep…” Pharynx muttered, burrowing under Metamorphosis’ hoof. He smiled and pulled his son close, closing his eyes.
“It’s alright Pharynx… goodnight my son…”
“Night dad…”
------------------------------------------
The next morning, Metamorphosis was woken up by a specific smell. His eyes opened slightly, and he inhaled the savory scent. He rubbed his eyes and sat up, then gasped. “B-Boys, get up.”
“Whattt…?” Pharynx yawned, sitting up and blinking as Thorax did the same. “What the…?”
Ocellus and Apex were standing by the bed, smiling at the three adults. Ocellus was levitating a large tray in her magic, which held plates of eggs, bacon, and hash browns, along with three mugs of coffee. Apex was holding a smaller plate in his mouth, which had a stack of toast on it.
“What’s going on…?” Thorax asked, and Ocellus smiled, setting the tray in front of them.
“Well, Apex and I wanted to do something for you, because today is the one-year anniversary of when Pharynx and Thorax went to find you, dad.” Ocellus explained, as Apex buzzed his wings happily, letting out muffled chirps of excitement from around the plate of toast.
“Kids… thank you…” Metamorphosis said, whispering from shock and joy. Thorax beamed and picked up Apex, taking the toast from him. Pharynx chuckled and grabbed a piece of bacon, eating it.
“We’e you ‘prised Papa Thorax?” Apex asked
“Heh, I was! You’re such a good little secret-keeper, Apex!” Thorax giggled, booping him. Apex smiled and pulled a couple papers out from under his carapace.
“I made you these too!” Apex said, holding the papers up. Metamorphosis giggled and smiled at the drawings of himself, Pharynx, and Thorax. Ocellus and Apex were beside them on one of the papers, waving at them.
“They’re wonderful, Apex.” Metamorphosis told his grandson, who smiled. “Thank you, both of you.”
“Of course dad.” Ocellus climbed onto the bed and snuggled between Pharynx and Metamorphosis. “We love you guys.”
“We love you too Ocellus.” Metamorphosis hugged her. “My daughter.”
A few months later, Metamorphosis yawned as he sat up in bed. He glanced out the window, noticing how it was still early morning. The sun was barely up yet, and he sighed. Lately he had been going to bed later and waking up earlier in order to help out in the kitchens. He really enjoyed baking, but baking in order to feed an entire Hive breakfast was a lot of work. Metamorphosis didn’t mind too much, he found it took his mind off of worrying over how Ocellus was doing in school.
As Metamorphosis stood up, he found he felt a little unsteady. He yawned again and rubbed his eyes, heading to the bathroom to wash his face. After he finished and brushed his mane a little, he still felt exhausted. He yawned, heading for the kitchens, where Labrum was already prepping everything.
“Morning Metamorphosis.” Labrum greeted, and he smiled at her slightly. “You okay?”
“O-Oh, I’m fine. I just don’t know how you do it, getting up so early every single day…” Metamorphosis yawned, and Labrum chuckled.
“You get used to it. Go ahead and start preparing the batter for the pancakes, please. Grubber will be here soon to start on the bacon.” Labrum instructed, and Metamorphosis nodded, yawning.
Metamorphosis stayed in the kitchen with the chefs, helping to make the biscuits and waffles. He preferred baking, as it relied on creativity and following a recipe, which he enjoyed. Soon enough, the food was sent out to the cafeteria to be served, and Metamorphosis got a break.
“Hey dad!” Thorax said cheerfully as he made his way over to Thorax and Pharynx. “A-Are you alright? You look tired.”
“I’m fine Thorax, I’m just not quite used to getting up as early as the chefs usually do.” Metamorphosis replied, and Pharynx blinked at him.
“Sure, but you should be alert by now. You look like you just woke up.” Pharynx remarked, and Metamorphosis rubbed his eyes.
“Well, I’ve been staying up a bit later than normal, and getting up earlier. My sleep schedule has been a little disrupted lately.”
“I still think something’s wrong.” Pharynx muttered, digging into his waffle. Apex jumped down from his seat and trotted over to Metamorphosis, hopping up onto his lap and nuzzling him.
“Gran’pa Mety, how come you tas’e sou’?” Apex asked, sticking out his tongue in disgust.
“W-What do you mean?” Metamorphosis asked.
“You’ per’snal scen’ us’aly tas’es like bu’er bu’ now i’ tas’es like sou’ milk.” Apex said, making a face. Thorax glanced over at Metamorphosis worriedly.
“Dad…”
“I-I’m fine Thorax, I’m sure it’s just because I’m tired.” Metamorphosis reasoned, lifting Apex off of him and passing him back to Thorax.
“Alright dad, if you’re sure…” Thorax said hesitantly. “A-Aren’t you going to eat anything?”
“Oh, it’s okay Thorax, I’m not that hungry.” Metamorphosis assured him, smiling at his sons. “I’m going to go lie down for a bit, try to regain some of the sleep I lost from getting up early.”
“Good idea, see you later dad.” Thorax smiled back, as Apex and Pharynx playfully tugged back and forth on a piece of bacon Apex had snagged from Pharynx’s plate. Metamorphosis chuckled and smiled slightly, leaving the three changelings.
The unreformed changeling headed back to his room, yawning. He laid down in his bed the second he got back to his bedroom. Metamorphosis settled down and closed his eyes, falling asleep. After a while, he felt someling shaking him awake.
“Dad! Dad, wake up!” Pharynx called, and Metamorphosis groaned, opening his eyes and sitting up slightly.
“I’m up, I’m up… what’s wrong?”
“Tell Thorax that I’m the favorite.”
Metamorphosis groaned again and flopped back down onto the pillow. “I don’t have favorites… now let me sleep…”
“Are you sure everything’s okay dad? You sound like Pharynx when I try to wake him up before nine.” Thorax said nervously.
“Dad, where’s the medicine cabinet in your bathroom?”
“The third cabinet, why?”
“I’ll be right back.” Thorax replied. Metamorphosis sighed as Pharynx patted him on the back, muttering something. Thorax soon came back and forced a thermometer into his mouth. “Don’t spit it out.”
“He’s not me Thorax, besides, you can’t order him around, he’s your dad.”
“Shush Pharynx.” Thorax hissed, and Metamorphosis sighed, burrowing deeper down into his bed. Thorax took the thermometer back after a minute, and huffed. “See? 100 degrees. You weren’t fine.”
Metamorphosis sighed and buried his head in the pillow. “I don’t know how I’m sick though…”
“Exhaustion, stress, worry…” Pharynx listed. “Pretty much everything that you do.”
“I… I guess I didn’t think about that…” Metamorphosis coughed slightly, rubbing his eyes. “Labrum and the other chefs seem to do alright…”
“Well, yeah dad, because they’re used to it.” Thorax nuzzled him. “I bet they had these same problems at first, but figured out a way to balance their work and rest so it doesn’t affect them anymore.”
“Yeah, and come on dad, I know you like baking, but you don’t have to be up when the chefs are.” Pharynx chuckled dryly. “I mean, they’ll probably let you use their kitchen whenever you feel like it, you don’t need to be there when they are.”
“Especially if it affects your health.” Thorax agreed, and Metamorphosis sighed.
“Alright boys, I understand…” he coughed again, his chest rattling, and Pharynx shook his head.
“You know, I don’t think we got our stubbornness completely from mother.” Pharynx quipped, and Metamorphosis snorted irritably. “Anyway… stay in bed.”
“Like you’re one to talk.” Thorax chuckled, elbowing Pharynx, and Metamorphosis smiled at the two wearily. “But Phar’s right. I think you should stay in bed and rest for now dad.”
“Alright boys, alright…” Metamorphosis sighed and closed his eyes. He heard hoofsteps, then a lump flopped onto the bed beside him. Metamorphosis squeaked and opened his eyes, seeing Pharynx smiling at him. “Pharynx…?”
“Heh… I’m not leaving you here alone.” Pharynx told him, cuddling into his father. “You didn’t leave me alone when I was sick…”
Metamorphosis smiled and pulled him close. “Thank you my Dark Warrior…” he yawned and closed his eyes. “You know you don’t have to stay…”
“I know… but…” Pharynx sighed and cuddled into him. “The last changeling who took care of me like you do… I never got a chance to pay it forward to her… I’m not risking that chance with you.”
Metamorphosis smiled softly and nuzzled him. “Thank you Pharynx… I love you, my son…”
Pharynx chuckled and nestled into him. “I love you too dad.”
Metamorphosis smiled and closed his eyes, falling asleep. He felt Pharynx cuddling into him, and held him tighter, smiling in his sleep.
“Ugh!” Thorax faceplanted onto Pharynx’s office desk, groaning. Pharynx used his magic to calmly lift his head up and drop it on the side of the table.
“Trying to work, Thorax.”
“I’m sorry! But I’m bored!” Thorax sighed. “We’ve been working nonstop lately, I’m sick of it!”
“You think I’m not sick of it?” Pharynx hissed, slamming his quill down on the desk. “I hate paperwork as much as you do!”
Thorax sighed and squished his face into the desk. “I know, I know… can’t we take a break?
“I don’t think we have the time for a break.” Pharynx sighed, as Metamorphosis came in.
“Boys! I just finished these brownies, do you want to-what’s wrong?” Metamorphosis asked, setting the brownies down on the desk.
“We’re exhausted, we haven’t had a break for paperwork in weeks!” Thorax exclaimed, sighing. Pharynx grabbed a brownie and shoved it into his mouth.
“We just want a break!” Pharynx groaned around the brownie, and Metamorphosis rubbed his back gently.
“I kind of miss being in exile… at least it wasn’t as much work just to hang out with Spike…” Thorax sighed, closing his eyes.
“Well, maybe you two could take a vacation.” Metamorphosis brightened. “I can go with you! It can be a family trip!”
Pharynx made a face, but sighed. “Fine… but how are we going to get away from all this work?”
“Ocellus!” Thorax exclaimed. “We can get her out of school and ask her to… wait…”
“She’s family too…” Metamorphosis sighed “We can’t leave her here.”
“Sure we can!” Pharynx grinned. “She’s got school anyway.”
“Pharynx, if we ask her to cover for us, there’s no way that would be fair.” Thorax sighed.
“Well, it was a bit of a long shot…” Metamorphosis sighed. “Sorry boys…”
“It’s okay dad…” Thorax sighed.
“No, come on, let’s just ask, okay?” Pharynx urged, and Thorax blinked at him.
“You seem very eager all of a sudden.”
“I… just wanna laugh at Ocellus for doing all the work while we go on a vacation, come on let’s go ask her!” Pharynx said, rushing off. Thorax and Metamorphosis looked at each other in confusion, but shrugged and followed him anyway.
------------------------------------
“So… you pulled me out of school… so you can go on vacation for the weekend?” Ocellus asked, tapping her hoof impatiently.
“We’d invite you, but it’s for boys only.” Pharynx told her, and Ocellus gave him a look. “What? You’re always saying school is easy anyway, you don’t need a break.”
“I… well… okay, that’s true.” Ocellus sighed, shuffling her hooves nervously. “Can you give me a little while to decide?”
“Alright. We have to pack if we’re actually going on vacation anyway.” Thorax said cheerfully.
Ocellus nodded and headed off, and Pharynx grinned at Thorax and Metamorphosis. “I told you I could get her to do it.”
“She still hasn’t said yes yet, Pharynx.” Metamorphosis reminded him.
“She will.” Pharynx assured him. “I can tell.”
“How? She’s not a part of our Twintuition thing.” Thorax said, and Pharynx chuckled.
“Easy. She’s going to talk it out with her friends and they’ll agree to help her. It’s what always happens.” Pharynx shrugged.
“I… okay, fair point.” Thorax sighed, and Pharynx chuckled.
---------------------------
Sure enough, Ocellus came back a little while later with her friends. Metamorphosis greeted them at the entrance to the Hive.
“So, um, I thought about it, and I thought my friends and I could work together to take care of all of Thorax and Pharynx’s duties.” Ocellus said cheerfully. “Our teachers are out to deal with something in Canterlot, so we have an off-day anyway.”
“Yeah, we can do it!” Smolder agreed, hugging Ocellus with one arm. “So where are they?”
“Heh, that’s a wonderful idea kids. As for the boys, they should be here in a minute.” Metamorphosis said, glancing back at the Hive.
“Come on Pharynx! We have the chance to do whatever we want and you want to do extreme things? What about just relaxing?!”
“That’s boring! Why relax when you can explore?”
“You’re a general! I thought you might’ve wanted to do something more subtle!” Thorax exclaimed as he and Pharynx walked up to them, saddlebags on their backs.
“Thorax, I’m not just the general, I’m the drill sergeant. And for once, I’d like to be able to have some excitement that doesn’t involve Ventricle nearly impaling me with a spear.” Pharynx retorted, and Gallus blinked.
“Uh… do we have to do that?” Gallus asked his friends.
“I hope not.” Smolder murmured.
“Well, I’d rather do some relaxing, can’t we just sit by a stream and read a little?” Thorax asked, and Pharynx rolled his eyes.
“Boys-”
“Not happening Thorax, we’re not forty!”
“Boys!” Metamorphosis raised his voice, and they froze. “Don’t you think there’s a better way of deciding?”
“You’re right dad…” Pharynx sighed. “So, what do you want to do? The exciting adrenaline junkie stuff or the boring elderly pony stuff?”
“Hey!”
The six kids began giggling, and Metamorphosis sighed. Silverstream bounced over, reaching into her saddlebags.
“Hey, if you guys are having such a hard time deciding what to do, why don’t you make a list?” Silverstream suggested, pulling out a piece of paper and scribbling on it for a minute. She held it up, revealing she had drawn a simple chart with their faces and names above each side. “Then you can take turns figuring out what to do!”
“That’s a wonderful idea, Silverstream, thank you.” Metamorphosis told her, smiling as he took the paper in his magic. “Come on then boys, let’s head out, and you can make the list on the way.”
“Fine…” they said as one, then Thorax glanced at Ocellus.
“So, Ocellus, are you and your friends sure that you can handle everything?”
“Positive! Don’t worry about it Thorax, we can handle anything you can!” Ocellus said, smiling.
“Alright then. We’ll see you soon then.”
“Don’t burn down the Hive!” Pharynx called as they headed off.
“No promises!” Smolder called back, snickering.
“Alright boys, so where to first?” Metamorphosis asked
“Adventure!”
“Relaxation!”
“Oh boy…” Metamorphosis sighed, shaking his head and smiling softly. “Alright, let’s work on that list…”
Thorax beamed and held out the list, the two brothers disappearing behind the paper as they began writing down ideas. Metamorphosis chuckled, leading the way so they wouldn’t trip. Eventually, Pharynx rolled up the scroll and stuffed it into his bag, taking over for Metamorphosis.
Thorax pranced along behind Pharynx, and Metamorphosis chuckled, following the two eager royals. Thorax hummed under his breath, and Pharynx rolled his eyes.
“So Pharynx, what did you have in mind?”
“We’re going to go explore a cave system that Ember’s mentioned before, apparently it connects the Dragon Lands with our territory.”
“Really?” Metamorphosis glanced at Thorax, who shrugged.
“I thought it might be better to just get it out of the way now, plus I've never seen the inside before.” Thorax explained. Pharynx gave him a look, and he chuckled nervously. “Besides, we only have about a day to do what we’d like before we have to go relieve Ocellus. And…”
“Don’t sing don't sing don’t sing don’t sing-”
“-There’s a lot of little things to try in the world!”
“Damnit!”
“There’s a lot of little things we’ve got to do!” Thorax added, beaming at Pharynx, who groaned. “Just a bunch of exciting things other creatures try, that royal duties have made us pass by!”
“Thoraxxxx…”
“Come on Phar, sing something!”
“No.”
“Humor your brother please, Pharynx?” Metamorphosis urged, and Pharynx sighed.
“No one knows me like my little brother?” he tried, and Thorax beamed, hugging him and picking up the line.
“No one is a better confidant!” Thorax cheered, and Pharynx groaned, but joined in.
“No one is truer than my brother, no one else here that I could want.” they sang together, and Metamorphosis giggled, following the two along the path.
“You can’t go off on a vacation hidden in the Hive’s walls-” Pharynx began
“And you can’t throw your crown off at a beach!”
“You don’t have a crown-” Pharynx started
“So we’re going along with some relaxation!” Thorax sang loudly, hugging Pharynx and Metamorphosis. Pharynx rolled his eyes as Thorax dragged them off. “This list of things to help us along!”
The three changelings soon made it to the entrance of the caves, and Pharynx pulled some hard hats out of his bag, grinning as Thorax and Metamorphosis took one each. Metamorphosis chuckled and gestured for Pharynx to lead the way.
“Aww, look!” Thorax exclaimed, pointing at some bats hanging from the ceiling. They had gotten a little ways into the cave, and Thorax opened his wings, flying over for a better look.
“Dad, Thorax, this way!” Pharynx called out, a little ways ahead of them. The bats screeched and flew off, and Thorax sighed in disappointment, landing beside Metamorphosis.
“It’s alright Thorax, I’m sure we’ll see more.” Metamorphosis said, and Thorax nodded. He murmured under his breath.
“No one knows me like my older brother… no one is a better confidant…”
After they got out of the caves, it was Thorax’s turn. They took a train to Manehatten, as Thorax wanted to go sightseeing. Metamorphosis chuckled as Thorax trotted around, looking at all the shops. Pharynx feigned boredom, before spotting something and rushing off. Thorax and Metamorphosis noticed and followed him, finding the beta changeling staring through a shop window at a colorful array of dresses. The two bigger changelings chuckled and hugged him as he blushed sheepishly.
“No one is truer than my brother, no one else here that I could want!” The twins sang together, laughing. Metamorphosis smiled, happy his sons were having fun. “There’s a lot of little things to try in the world! So many different things we have to see!”
They were wandering through some fields by a town, and Thorax sighed, stopping.
“But sitting and resting our hooves, seems pretty nice to me.” Thorax countered, pulling out a book and sitting down by a stream, as Metamorphosis joined him.
“No way, come on, there’s a rollercoaster nearby, I have to conquer it!” Pharynx objected, and Thorax sighed.
“But Pharynx-”
“Come on, it’s my turn!” Pharynx insisted, and Thorax groaned, getting up. Metamorphosis glanced between them in concern, following the two off to the rollercoaster.
“No one knows you like your brother! No one is a better confidant!” Thorax and Pharynx sang as one as they got off the roller coaster. Metamorphosis had elected to stay on the ground and watch their bags. “No one is truer than my brother, no one else here that I could want!”
After Thorax caught his breath from the roller coaster, he checked over the list and eagerly teleported all three of them to Canterlot, then dragged Pharynx off. Metamorphosis followed them quickly, noticing Pharynx looked very bored as Thorax led them on a stroll through the Canterlot Gardens. Metamorphosis bit his lip, thinking of a way to help the two compromise.
“You can’t go on an adventure if you’re taking a nap. You know this checklist won’t check itself off!” Pharynx sang stubbornly as he snatched the list, grinning and leading them along the path down the mountain. “Come on, what’s another hill?”
“You know, sometimes you can be a pill, and why does the way forward always have to be steep!” Thorax exclaimed as they flew down the mountain, slipping as they landed and collapsing onto his stomach. Metamorphosis sat by him, rubbing his back and glancing at Pharynx, who hadn't seen his brother fall.
------------------------------
“I dunno what Thorax and Pharynx were complaining about, this seems pretty easy!” Smolder said, lounging in Thorax’s throne., chewing on some gems she'd found in the kitchen
“Yeah, plus Apex is adorable!” Silverstream squeed from where she was curled up on the floor, the nymph in question asleep under her wing.
“Your highnesses!” a drone wearing military armor burst in, followed by a powder blue and green male. The two froze when they saw the creatures before them. “Oh… u-um…”
“Retina? Tibius? What’s wrong?” Ocellus asked, trotting over to the changeling female.
“G-General Pharynx never showed up to train the recruits.” Retina replied
“He and King Thorax were also supposed to go over the new schedules for the activities with me, so the training and potluck lunches don’t clash.” Tibius added, levitating a scroll over to Ocellus.
“Well, um, my friends and I are filling in for them today, maybe we can help.” Gallus said, walking over.
“Well, I’d be happy to help!” Tibius suggested cheerfully. “Cornicle, Fema, Sillia, and I would be glad to do anything you need.”
“As would I, General Pharynx has entrusted the guidance of the army to me before.” Retina agreed
“Thank you guys, but I think we’ve got everything covered.” Ocellus said calmly, and the two changelings looked at each other before shrugging and leaving.
“Ocellus, what was that for? They could’ve been helpful.” Sandbar said.
“My brothers put me in charge, and if I ask for help, it’ll just prove I’m not as good at this as they are. Plus Pharynx would never let me hear the end of it.” Ocellus replied, and Gallus blinked.
“Okay, at some point you’re gonna have to explain more on this whole ‘them adopting you’ thing, you’ve kind of been avoiding the subject-”
“Anyway! It can’t be that difficult. So what’s on that list?” Ocellus asked, changing the subject and Silverstream shot over, taking the scroll from Gallus’ claw. Apex squeaked in alarm at the movement and Ocellus picked him up.
“Um… we have to… organize the guard patrols, cross-refer that with the activities schedule, make the activities schedule, check on the preparations for lunch and dinner, order supplies for the nursery and the infirmary, be present for the next Feelings Forum, moderate the daily open grievances consul-” Silverstream broke off when she saw the looks the others were giving her, chuckling nervously. “Should, uh, I keep reading…?”
The five creatures all turned to glare at Ocellus, who giggled sheepishly. “Maybe it’s a… tiny bit harder than I thought…?”
---------------------------------------
“Pharynx? D-Do you think that since we’re all getting a little tired, the next activity shouldn’t be as… wild?” Thorax suggested.
“You know what? You’ve got a point.” Pharynx said, and Metamorphosis smiled hopefully, as did Thorax. “Zip lining!”
Thorax yelped and clung to Metamorphosis. “Do you think I can stay on the ground with dad this time?”
“Not if you want to get left behind.” Pharynx chuckled, grabbing his stuff and leading them off.
After the zip lining, Thorax leaned against his father for support, the two having both gone down the zip line with Pharynx. Metamorphosis sighed wearily and glanced at Pharynx, who looked very excited.
"Well... he's having fun, at least. That's what's important, right Thorax?" Metamorphosis looked at his youngest son. Thorax sighed and walked over to him.
“So, um, now that we’ve done that… it’s my turn to pick something.” Thorax said, tugging the list from Pharynx’s hooves. “Come on.”
“Fine, but it better be as exciting as my activities.” Pharynx muttered, and Thorax beamed, while Metamorphosis looked on, worried.
------------------------------------
“...Thorax, this is the most boring place ever.” Pharynx said bluntly.
“No it’s not!” Thorax said excitedly.
They were walking through the Crystal Gardens in the Crystal Empire, and Pharynx looked miserable. Thorax was fascinated with the crystal plants, especially the ones that were sparkling-which was most of them. Metamorphosis walked in between where Pharynx and Thorax were wandering, making sure they didn’t get lost.
“Yes it is.”
“But they’re all so sparkly!” Thorax marveled, staring into the crystal rose that was closest to him. Pharynx groaned and grabbed the scroll again.
“Aha! Found something actually fun, come on!”
Thorax sighed and allowed Pharynx to lead them out of the gardens. Metamorphosis stuck by Thorax’s side as Pharynx led them to Ponyville, or rather, the gorge near it.
“Only the most daring of ponies ever attempt to go through the Ghastly Gorge, and only the best ever make it out.” Pharynx chuckled darkly, as a large eel-like creature came out of a hole in the side of the gorge and hissed threateningly.
“I wonder why…” Thorax muttered, grabbing the list back. “Come on Pharynx, let’s do something less life-threatening! Like… ooh, we can go to the spa! Come on, you can pick out a dress!”
“I already did, back in Manehattan.” Pharynx retorted, blushing. “Come on Thorax, it’s my turn, I should get to pick something!”
“But I’ve always wanted to try a makeover!”
“We’re changelings! Just turn into a pony!”
“Boys, please. Come on, let’s just calm down and think.” Metamorphosis stepped between them, then took the list and looked over it. “You both agreed on going to the beach, how about we try that?”
“Fine.” they said as one, glaring at each other. Metamorphosis rolled up the scroll and smiled at the two half-heartedly, leading them off.
“There’s a lot of little things to try in the world.” Thorax sang softly as they arrived at the beach.
“A lot of little things you should see!” Pharynx cried as he shoved his brother off a rocky cliff, where ponies jumped into the ocean water below. He cheered as he dove in after Thorax, landing with a splash while Thorax swam back to shore.
“I think maybe our list is just a little bit long…” Thorax said, shaking his head. “It’s a lot of trouble to get through.”
“I’m sure it will get better later on.” Pharynx insisted to himself as Thorax hunted for shells and rock pools on the beach. “And after the dullest day will come a bright night…”
Pharynx grabbed the list from Metamorphosis’ bag when he wasn’t looking, scanning it.
“It’s my turn to pick what we’re doing!” Thorax protested
“Well, I want to try this cliff diving thing!” Pharynx objected, and Thorax huffed, grabbing the scroll in his magic. Pharynx grabbed back and the two began tugging it back and forth.
Metamorphosis had transformed into a pony and approached an ice cream stall, buying three different cones. He smiled and transformed back when he got closer to where he had left the boys, only to freeze when he saw them fighting again.
“You know, this adventure isn’t too fun to be on with you!” they both shouted as one, glaring at each other.
Thorax and Pharynx both fell backwards into the sand as the scroll finally ripped in half. They turned away from each other and stormed off. Metamorphosis sighed and he lost his grip on the ice cream cones, letting them fall into the sand.
Ocellus and her friends had been struggling to keep up with everything on the list, rushing around trying to keep up with the schedule, as Apex sat on the throne, playing with a ladybug. Then, an ice-blue themed changeling entered the throne room.
“Sillia? W-What’s wrong?” Ocellus asked.
“The infirmary’s out of bandages and cold medicine.” Sillia told her, and Silverstream held up the list.
“Hey! That was one of the things on the list! Restock the infirmary and the nursery!”
“W-We’ll get right on it, thank you for letting us know but we don’t have much time to chat.” Ocellus said hurriedly, gently shoving Sillia out. “Alright, let’s get started on ordering supplies!”
“How?” Yona asked
“Papa Thorax keeps or’er forms in his office!” Apex piped up, sitting up on the throne.
“Anyone else think Ocellus' do-everything-at-once system isn’t really working?” Gallus asked, and the others all raised their hooves/claws. Even Apex stuck his little hoof in the air, trying to be included.
----------------------------
Metamorphosis had collected the boys again, deciding to do something neutral and sit with them in a field to eat. Pharynx growled as he ate his sandwich, while Thorax stared in the other direction, eating a bag of chips.
“Well, I hope you’re enjoying yourself, Thorax.” Pharynx muttered, and Thorax snorted.
“Maybe I would be if you hadn’t made us go through the path that was full of thorn bushes.”
“They hurt less than my hooves did after you dragged us to see those stupid crystal flowers.” Pharynx snarled.
“At least they were pretty! And you made us leave even though it was still my turn!”
“Nothing I ever do pleases you, does it?!”
“Because you never let me be happy! I always have to do things your way, just because you’re older!” Thorax shouted, and Metamorphosis flinched.
“Oh, you think I like that kind of pressure?! Having to run an army and protect you?! I’d like a brother I could actually depend on, for once!”
“You mean boss around!”
“Shut up Thorax!”
“Boys!” Metamorphosis tried to get their attention, but they didn’t even hear him.
“You know what? I think today would be better if I was by myself!”
“Fine by me!” Pharynx grabbed his bag and his side of the torn list. “I just remembered something I’ve always wanted to do; be alone!”
“I guess we had the same thing on both of our lists then.” Thorax muttered, tearing up as he and his brother stormed off.
Metamorphosis looked at both of his retreating sons, before sighing and laying down in the grass, his ears wilting. “Boys…”
----------------------------------
“Hey Silver, where’s that list of patrol times?” Gallus called out.
“Still being reviewed!” Silverstream called, from where she and Smolder were hunched over the list.
“Um, guys? There’s a bunch of changelings waiting for something?” Sandbar asked
“It’s the open grievances consulting thing.” Ocellus replied, reading over a document. “The changelings are supposed to come in and talk about their problems with Thorax and Metamorphosis, and then they help them work through it.”
“What about grumpy prince changeling?” Yona asked
“Pharynx isn’t much help, he just makes snide commentary.” Ocellus replied, and Smolder laughed.
"Dibs on that job!"
“Guys! They look restless!” Sandbar called.
“I don’t get it! There’s six of us and we’re still flustered! How did Thorax and Pharynx manage to do all of this on their own?!” Ocellus exclaimed
“Wha’re you talkin’ ‘bout Celly, Papa Thorax an’ Uncle Pharynx ne’er did e’erything on their own!” Apex said, and the group all turned to look at him.
“What?!” they all asked as one. Apex wagged his tail, standing up on the throne, proud that he was being helpful.
“Papa Thorax an’ Uncle Pharynx had you an’ Gran’pa Mety, an’ they also go’ Sillia, Fema, Corn’cle an’ Tibius, an' Uncle Pharynx has his compe'ent lings!”
The others all looked at Ocellus, who blinked, then rolled up the document sheepishly. “I... um... n-new plan everybody! We’re going to delegate! Gallus, Smoldie, Silver, get Retina, Sillia, and Tibius!”
The three nodded and rushed off. Soon, they returned with the three changelings, and Ocellus trotted over to them.
“Retina! Get a squadron of soldiers and head out on patrol, and when you’re done get the rest started on the drills they’ve missed today!” Ocellus instructed, and she rushed off. “Sillia, we ordered a shipment of the medical equipment you needed, take someling and go meet the delivery at the border. Tibius, check on the food preparations and make sure the Hive activities are up and running!”
“Yes Princess Ocellus!” they two said as one, and she blushed as they left.
“So this is what running a kingdom is like.” Smolder said, picking up Ocellus and holding her. “Eh, not for me.”
“Heh… now, about those grievances that need airing…” Ocellus said, as Smolder sat down on the throne, still holding her girlfriend on her lap, Apex jumping over to perch on the hoofrest.
-----------------------------------
“Finally. It’s way more relaxing here without such a bossy know-it-all of a brother.” Thorax sighed, stretching out on the beach and opening a book. He noticed a lot of ponies laughing and playing together, and sighed, returning to his book.
Meanwhile, Pharynx was wandering through a forest, chuckling to himself. “Who needs a boring brother undermining me all the time anyway?” He then noticed a tree that had been decorated in pictures of ponies that had been hiking along the same trail. Many of them were in pairs, which made Pharynx sigh softly.
“Shark!”
The shrill cry made Thorax yelp and get up, rushing away from the water. He whimpered as he stood on the edge of the beach, the ponies running into the distance, screaming.
“Pharynx would’ve protected me…” Thorax muttered, shaking his head. "I don't need him anyway."
The beta changeling in question was still in the forest, scanning the map. “Alright, so after I go left, I-aghhh!”
Pharynx tripped over a root jutting out of the ground, stumbling and landing hard on his side. He hissed and grabbed at his hoof.
“Shit… Thorax always warned me if there was anything in the way…” Pharynx muttered. “And he knew how to bandage a hoof without any supplies…well, I do too... kind of. So there!”
--------------------------------
Thorax sighed as he walked out into a meadow as the sun was beginning to set. He then saw Pharynx walking towards him, limping slightly. Thorax’s eyes widened as he and Pharynx noticed each other.
“O-Oh… I thought stargazing in the meadow by the Hive was on my list…” Pharynx said slowly.
“I-I’m not copying you, I just wanted to see the fireflies…” Thorax said quickly, looking away. “Wait… where’s dad?”
“I thought he was with you.” Pharynx said, and their eyes widened. “Oh shi-”
“Wait, look!” Thorax pointed at the meadow, where a lone figure sat. The brothers raced over, finding their father looking up at the sky.
“Dad…? What are you doing out here?” Pharynx asked
“It was the one place I knew I could find you two.” Metamorphosis snapped, then sighed, and the two laid down on either side of him. “So, did you two have a good rest of your day without each other?”
“Y-Yeah! It was f-fantastic.” Thorax said, forcing a smile.
“Me too… it was great…” Pharynx said softly, and Metamorphosis sighed.
The brothers sighed as well and looked up at the sky, and he followed their gaze. A shooting star flashed across the sky and Pharynx closed his eyes.
“Falling star…” Pharynx chuckled softly. “Fortuna told us about making wishes on them, remember Thorax…?”
“Y-Yeah…” Thorax smiled at him softly. “I… I hope I was able to be depended on back then…”
Pharynx sighed and looked back at him. “You’ always were... you're not a bad brother, Thor… I shouldn’t have said that stuff… you know I love you…”
“I’m sorry too… it’s just hard being the younger brother sometimes… you know I love you too…” Thorax sighed, smiling at him softly.
“It’s not easy being the older brother either y’know… and we’re sorry to you too, dad.” Pharynx said, nuzzling Metamorphosis. “We turned a day off into a fight, and we didn’t even consider your own feelings.”
“Yeah… we’re sorry you had to put up with us…” Thorax added, and Metamorphosis put a hoof over them both.
“It’s alright boys. I was upset you weren't getting along, but right now I’m just glad you two learned something.” he nuzzled them both.
“Yeah… being with your brother can be hard, especially when you’re kind of… more than brothers.” Pharynx said, blushing.
“-But it’s even harder being without you.” Thorax added, leaning over and pecking him on the cheek. Pharynx blushed and looked down.
“Yeah, I know… I wouldn’t trade you for anything I had on my list…”
“Really? Not for all the adrenaline junkie stuff you could fit on it?”
“Not even the adrenaline stuff.” Pharynx replied, nuzzling him. Thorax giggled and hugged Pharynx and Metamorphosis.
“I love you both…”
“I love you too.” Pharynx agreed, and they smiled at Metamorphosis. “Both of you.”
Metamorphosis smiled and held them both. Thorax and Pharynx snuggled into him, one on each side. “You know, we do have to go and relieve Ocellus of rule…”
“She can wait a little longer.” Pharynx said, leaning against him.
“Yeah. We’re trying to spend time with our dad.” Thorax said, smiling at Metamorphosis, who beamed and held them even closer.
“Papa Thorax, look, the ponies ‘re making i’ snow!” Apex said, pointing into the distance from the open throne room. Metamorphosis and Thorax looked over, seeing stormclouds over Canterlot.
“T-That looks kind of ominous…” Thorax said nervously, as Pharynx walked over. He stared out at the clouds.
“Okay, below ground evacuation protocol. Dad, Apex, you’re in charge of the nymphs, Thorax, help me get everyone into the lower levels.” Pharynx called, turning and heading out.
“Do you really think it’s that bad?” Metamorphosis asked.
“Knowing those ponies there’s a storm on the horizon, and I don’t like it.” Pharynx replied, then began calling out directions. “Retina! Protocol E-334, let’s go!”
“Good luck guys…” Thorax whispered, glancing out at Canterlot in the distance before joining Pharynx.
“Come on sweetie.” Meta murmured, picking Apex up and following the boys.
--------------------------------------------
“Is everyone accounted for?” Pharynx asked, and Retina nodded, checking the last couple changelings off on her list.
“Oh crap.” Pharynx hissed, rushing out. “I’ll get her!”
“I’m coming too!” Thorax cried, Metamorphosis racing after them.
“Boys, it’s okay, we don’t even know if-”
“Dad! Thorax, Pharynx!” Ocellus rushed towards them, smacking headfirst into Pharynx and falling back. “Ow! Oh, there you are, where is everyone!?”
“Down in the lower levels, what’s happening?” Thorax asked
“The Legion of Doom is attacking!” Ocellus exclaimed.
“Who?” Pharynx asked.
“Discord screwed up and pretended to be Grogar and rallied Sombra, Tirek, Cozy Glow, and Chrysalis-”
“What?!” all three of the older changelings cried in unison.
“-Sombra’s gone but Cozy, Tirek, and Chrysalis are attacking and now my teachers are gone and I’m pretty sure Chrysalis captured Starlight, and the CMCs and my friends and I all went to get help!” Ocellus said in one breath. “So… help?”
“...Absolutely not, get down with the others.” Pharynx replied, shoving Ocellus down the hallway.
“But Pharynx, my friends are all counting on me!” Ocellus cried out.
“Ocellus, this could all be dangerous, I have to agree with Pharynx!” Thorax said.
“Dad, please…” Ocellus begged softly. Metamorphosis sighed and rubbed his temple.
“I-I don’t know…”
“Let me talk to the others, please!” Ocellus stepped back, raising her head.
“Great, now we have to get them all back up to the throne room.” Pharynx muttered
“You don’t have to, they left when we did, I saw them.” Metamorphosis said, and Pharynx cursed.
“Does no one understand the importance of proper procedures?!” He cried, storming off.
---------------------------------------
“Don’t you all get it? For centuries we have been oppressed by Chrysalis, until Starlight Glimmer, Trixie Lulamoon, Discord, and you, Thorax, stepped up and made a difference! Since then we have still been treated differently, but we are different! The ponies have taught us how powerful love and the Magic of Friendship truly is! We can't let them stand alone! We're their friends! They need us! So it’s time for us to step up and show them how much we’ve learned, how much we’ve changed! We are ready to face our ex-Queen!” Ocellus shouted, and the changelings cheered loudly.
“...Well. I guess we’re doing this then.” Pharynx muttered, and Metamorphosis rubbed his back.
“It’s okay, Pharynx. I know you boys just don’t want to face Chrysalis again, but it’ll be okay.” Metamorphosis nuzzled him. “Just think… this time, you’ll be plotting against her this time. You never got to do that, and now you can.”
“Well… yeah… okay. Where do we go?” Pharynx asked Ocellus.
“The field near Mount Canterhorn and Ponyville. Let’s go!” Ocellus said, rushing off with a hoard of changelings behind her.
“Oh for the Hivemother’s sake-who’s the General here?!” Pharynx shouted, rushing after them.
“Dad, are you sure about this?” Thorax asked, scooping Apex into his hooves.
“In all honesty… no, but I do trust Ocellus and I trust Pharynx.” Metamorphosis kissed his grandson on the forehead. “Apex, you’re in charge of the nymphs, okay?”
“Yay!” Apex squirmed out of Thorax’s grip and trotted over to the crowd of confused nymphs.
“I hope this works…” Thorax sighed, and Metamorphosis followed him out, biting his lip.
“You and me both.”
------------------------------------
Soon, they arrived on the hilltop, finding a herd of other creatures waiting there for them.
“Who’s in charge here?” Pharynx asked, and Ember, Smolder, Tempest, Gallus, a hippogriff, Yona, the Wonderbolts captain, and a Kirin stepped forward. “Perfect. So where are Twilight and her friends, as I assume we’ve found them by now?”
“It’s only a matter of time, we found the villains looking at this field from Mount Canterhorn.” Tempest replied.
“We believe they are attempting to find a way to reach out to the Windigos.” the hippogriff added, clenching a claw.
“Alright, I suggest an ambush, they won’t know we’re here until it’s too late.” Pharynx suggested.
“Dragon style would be to rush in without thinking.” Ember retorted.
“I like this style better.” Gallus argued.
“Changeling style works better, all in favor?” the kirin asked, and they raised their hooves/claws.
“Come on, let’s go.” Pharynx said, leading them and their subjects into the undergrowth. Metamorphosis smiled softly.
“That’s my boy…” he whispered.
“I-I should go with them, shouldn’t I?” Thorax asked himself, before hurrying after the others, and Metamorphosis chuckled, following him.
“Okay, everyone clear on the plan?” Pharynx asked, and they all nodded.
“Hey, Meta?” Tempest asked, moving over to him. “Are you… okay? I mean, Chrysalis is one of the Legion.”
“I know, but I’m okay. I have to be strong for Thorax and Pharynx, this is definitely going to be hard on them.”
“And you.” Ember said, leaning against Tempest. “Come on, aren’t you guys supposed to support each other and share feelings and blah blah blah?”
“Get off me Ember.” Tempest replied, shoving her. Metamorphosis sighed.
“Girls, I know, but they need me to be strong more than I need to talk-”
“They’re here!” a small filly rushed into the bushes from where she’d been keeping watch. “They’re here and they’ve got Spike by his wings! Twilight and the others are about to kill themselves to save him!”
“Unicorns, now!” Tempest shouted, charging out of the bushes.
“Dragons, with me!” Ember yelled, her scepter igniting.
“Kirins, we ride!”
“Griffons, charge!”
“Hippogriffs, we fly!”
“Changelings, now!”
“Ponies, run!”
“Yaks go!”
Metamorphosis took a breath, and stepped out into the open beside the other leaders, just as a forcefield of magic went up, and the six ponies and one dragon were lifted behind it into safety. He glanced around at the other creatures charging into the fray instead. Metamorphosis closed his eyes, and in a flash of magic, became Starlight Glimmer, before charging down the hill.
Metamorphosis snarled in pain as he crashed to the ground, his disguise dropping. He had just been blasted by Tirek, but he quickly stood and leapt back up, heading directly for Chrysalis, completely undisguised. Chrysalis turned, snarling around at the creatures who dared to approach her, but her face quickly morphed into shock.
“Meta-?” Chrysalis was cut off as Metamorphosis charged into her, their horns clashing together.
“This is for attacking my friends.” Metamorphosis snarled, then leaned down and bit down hard on her foreleg, sinking his fangs in and tossing her into the air. She hit Cozy Glow and knocked her out of the sky, causing them both to hit Tirek. “And that’s for laying a hoof on my sons!”
“They deserved it! I knew you were just a worthless gene pool! Go back to your precious, undeserving, freakish babies you selfish little gay fa-” Chrysalis began.
“Leave our dad alone you bitch!” Pharynx shouted, charging at her, but Metamorphosis and Thorax grabbed him and dragged him back. “Hey! Come on, dad did it!”
“Yeah, but everyone else has been pushed back now, we need to get out of the way!” Thorax said, dragging him back. Chrysalis snarled at him tauntingly, and Pharynx shook them off.
“No, I earned this!” Pharynx charged again, leaping into the air and turning midair, bucking Chrysalis in the face, which sent her tumbling to the ground with a broken muzzle. “Yes! Damnit, that felt good! Buck you, mother!!!”
“Pharynx!” Thorax shouted, and he ran back to them.
“Enough!” Twilight shouted from the hill at the three villains.
“Dad, are you okay?” Thorax asked as they led Pharynx back up the hill, and Metamorphosis sighed as he pressed against his sons.
“I… I think so…” Metamorphosis sighed and nuzzled Pharynx as they watched.
“-That's why they created the Elements of Harmony! The Elements showed me and my friends how strong our friendship could be! Together we worked to bring harmony to Equestria! But there will always be more to do! Which is why we teach others about the Magic of Friendship! Others who will continue our mission after we are gone! Now I truly understand! The Elements were just symbols! The real magic has always been right here! And the more creatures who understand how powerful friendship is, the stronger we will all be! Together!”
The Pillars of Equestria, Twilight and her friends, and Ocellus and her friends lifted up into the air, and as one, a beam of rainbow energy came from each group, intertwining and slamming into the three villains. They were immediately reduced back to their original forms.
“Now what?” Pharynx asked, as Celestia, Luna, and Discord appeared before the three… and a giant cupcake dropped from the sky.
“I think they’re going to…” Twilight said, before all three powerful beings blasted the cupcake smashing the three villains, and began to cast a spell.
“Princess ponies and Discord turning Legion to stone!” Yona shouted, and the other creatures gasped, then cheered.
Sure enough, when the light faded, the three villains stood there, stone statues of rage and terror. The creatures rushed down the hill, cheering and beginning to celebrate, some of them tending to the injured. Thorax and Pharynx looked straight at their father, who shook his head and walked down the hill.
He headed straight for Chrysalis, staring into her eyes. Thorax and Pharynx walked up on either side of him.
“Dad…?”
Metamorphosis stared at Chrysalis’ angry expression. Then, he chuckled softly, staring at her. “Oh Chrysalis… how far you’ve fallen…”
Pharynx grinned, as Metamorphosis put his forelegs around his sons, as Ocellus squirmed up between him and Thorax to join them.
“You know Chrysalis…” Metamorphosis murmured, looking at her. “I used to think there’d always be a piece of you in my family, and my kingdom… but now I see that your legacy will only live on in the stories we tell about your downfall. Your blood may be in my sons, but their legacy will be their own, no matter who you were to them. You’re gone now, and my children have their own paths to pave.”
“She’ll live on in the two of you… but you two are the only things that have ever made me this happy… and I don’t think it matters who your mother is… as long as I have the two of you.” Metamorphosis said, and Ocellus cleared her throat.
“Awww…” Thorax hugged him tightly. “We love you too.”
“Yeah, um… can we go home now dad?” Ocellus asked, giving him big eyes and Metamorphosis smiled at her.
“Yes my bookbug, we can.”
--------------------------------------------
“I can’t believe this, Twilight’s getting coronated!” Ocellus squealed excitedly, then squeaked as Apex bounced on her back.
“Relax, it’s not like it’s going to change the world.” Pharynx replied, and she rolled her eyes at him.
Metamorphosis chuckled and smiled. On his right, Pharynx stood at attention, Tempest at his side, and on his left, Thorax and Ember sat beside each other. He smiled happily, proud of his sons and his daughter, they had all accomplished so much, and it wasn’t just them.
Equestria itself had come so far, and it was all because of one purple alicorn and her friends, who had built bridges, established alliances, and united races. Metamorphosis smiled solemnly as he gazed in the direction of the Canterlot Gardens, where he knew the now stone Legion of Doom was.
“Good luck trapped in there for eternity, Chrissy…” Metamorphosis whispered, a tear falling down his cheek.
“Dad, is everything okay?” Thorax asked, glancing over at him in concern.
“Yes Thorax, everything is fine.” Metamorphosis replied, smiling at him.
As Princess Twilight made her way out onto the castle balcony, Metamorphosis couldn’t help but smile. It really seemed like everything was looking up for the better. As Twilight smiled awkwardly at everyone gathered, he beamed right alongside her.
Even as the ceremony went completely wrong, with the Wonderbolts flying in too early and the fireworks going off, all the chaos around them just captured the moment even more. Metamorphosis laughed under his breath, then began crying silently, feeling his sons and daughter pressing into him, and his grandson clambering onto his head.
“You sure everything’s okay dad?” Pharynx whispered, as he and the others all looked over in concern, Apex hugging his horn.
“I’m fine, I just realized something…” Metamorphosis pulled them closer with his magic, smiling as he stared up at the princesses on the balcony, thinking to himself.
“The more things change… the more they stay the same…”
“I have to agree with Thorax on this one dad, you need it.”
“Yeah, did you really think we haven’t noticed? I know Phar and Thor aren’t the brightest with these things but come on.”
“Hey!”
Metamorphosis sighed as the three siblings began arguing loudly. “Kids, honestly, it’s not that bad…”
“Yes it is dad, you are clearly horrible about being around crowds.” Ocellus said, snapping her brothers out of the argument.
“I-It’s not that bad!”
“Hey, look, it’s a group of Hive visitors!” Pharynx said loudly, and in a flash Metamorphosis had transformed into an average-looking reformed changeling. “See?”
Metamorphosis transformed back, sighing and biting his lip. “I… I see your point, but… what about during the battle against the Legion of Doom?”
“Dad, you know that doesn’t count, there were hundreds of creatures there, yeah, but we were all focused on not dying!” Ocellus objected.
“And don’t think Thorax and I didn’t see what you did during our vacation.” Pharynx added. “We were arguing, sure, but we saw you transform into a pony to go get that ice cream, and you were always staying behind to ‘watch our stuff’ while we did the activities because the crowds were so big!”
“Well…”
“Look, dad, we just want you to take a walk around in a city you’re not familiar with while untransformed to help you work on your social anxiety, okay? Please?” Ocellus asked, and Metamorphosis sighed.
“I… I don’t want to…”
“I know dad, but I think you need to.” Thorax nuzzled him gently, and he sighed.
“Okay…”
“Thank you.” Pharynx said, nudging him along. “Now come on, we’re going to Manehattan, and then you’re going to make a lap around the city while we wait for you at a pizza place.”
“Why a pizza place?”
“Because a new Papa Anons just opened up and they’re offering a discount and I want pizza.” Ocellus replied, as the three led Metamorphosis off. “Come on, it’s going to be fine, I promise dad.”
“We’re all here for you, just like you are for us.” Thorax added. Metamorphosis bit his lip nervously, but said nothing more as they followed him.
---------------------------------
“K-Kids, I really don’t think this is a good idea-”
“None of that, go!” Pharynx said, shoving him forwards gently. “Come on dad, you need a life!”
“How did you even know that Manehatten won’t be full of staring ponies?” Metamorphosis asked, looking around.
“We know a couple ‘lings who live out here.” Thorax explained, nudging Metamorphosis along. “Come on, let’s go.”
“Alright, I-I’m going…” Metamorphosis bit his lip, walking forwards.
“We’ll be waiting at the Papa Anons, it’s on the other side of the city, see you there!” Ocellus called, hefting Apex onto her back and running off. Thorax and Pharynx quickly followed her, and Metamorphosis sighed.
“Well, I guess this is happening then…” Metamorphosis sighed. He took a breath and walked forwards, keeping his eyes on the horizon. “Okay, just… don’t look around, you’ll see them all staring at you…”
Surprisingly, though, when he glanced around, most passing creatures didn’t give him a second glance. He smiled slightly, then relaxed his stance, trotting along more leisurely. He smiled a little more as he walked, heading down the street.
“This isn’t so bad… no one’s looking at me…” Metamorphosis sped up a little, then noticed some ponies pulling their kids away from him, and he froze, his bangs falling over his eyes. “They’re looking at me, aren’t they. Okay, just… look away…”
Metamorphosis closed his eyes and headed down the street, keeping a straight path. He ducked his head, screwing his eyes shut, feeling very dizzy and nauseous. It was only a couple more blocks to the pizza place, at least, he hoped. But as Metamorphosis was walking, he suddenly crashed into something fluffy.
“Eep!”
“Heh, hey, watch where you’re going buddy.” a smooth voice greeted him. Metamorphosis yelped and opened his eyes, looking up at the figure, his mind going blank for a moment before he realized they were talking to him.
“I-I’m sorry, I should have looked where I was going, are you okay?”
“Heh, I’m fine sugar.” The pony was an alicorn stallion with a gray coat, deep blue eyes, and long, blue, fire-like hair. Metamorphosis blushed and scrambled to his hooves, biting down on his lip nervously.
“A-Alright… sorry, I’m just on my way to the pizza place…”
“Oh, you mean Papa Anons? I’m job hunting there, you want to come with me?” the stallion asked him, and he blushed, trembling a bit.
“O-Okay… I-I’m Metamorphosis…”
“That is a beautiful name.” the stallion grinned at him. “For a beautiful creature.”
Metamorphosis squeaked and glanced around nervously, as the stallion fell into step beside him.
“My name’s Griff.” he introduced himself.
“O-Oh, um… t-that’s a very handsome-I mean good name…” Metamorphosis giggled nervously, biting his lip. “S-Sorry, I just…”
“Hm?”
Metamorphosis sighed and looked around. “My kids dragged me out here, they want me to walk around undisguised in public to help my social anxiety…”
Metamorphosis ducked his head shyly. “O-Oh, I don’t know…”
“So, who’re your kids?” Griff asked
“Oh, um, Pharynx, Thorax, and Ocellus.”
“Wait, you're Pharynx’s father?”
“Yes, why?”
“O-Oh, no reason, my… friend Oculus has some history with him, no big deal…” Griff chuckled, gazing at Metamorphosis. “So, uh, you're single…?”
Metamorphosis blushed and nodded. “Yeah… I-I’m also gay…”
“Perfect!” Griff exclaimed, then blushed. “I-I meant to say… would you like to… maybe go out sometime?”
Metamorphosis blushed. “I would love to.”
Griff beamed and pressed up against him. “So, we should probably go find your kids…”
“Gran’pa Mety!” Apex cried, rushing over and latching to Meta’s leg. “Wha’ took you so long?”
“Grub!” Pharynx shouted, chasing the nymph. “We agreed that if you waited for dad to come to us you’d get ice cream.”
“I couldn’ wai’.” Apex said, hugging Meta, then looked up at Griff. “Uncle Pharynx, Gran’pa go’ a boyfrien’!”
Metamorphosis turned red and pulled Apex off his leg. “S-Sweetie, no…”
“Well, we’ll see~” Griff chuckled, waving to the nymph. “You’re a cute thing.”
“...Dad? Care to explain?” Pharynx asked.
“U-Um… this is Griff… I bumped into him…” Metamorphosis explained, blushing. “And… we are going on a date…”
“Yay!” Apex cheered. Pharynx stared between his father and the stallion, then sighed.
“I doubt I’d have much say in this anyway, so… have fun dad. Don’t worry, I’ll watch the children while you’re out.” Pharynx said, then grabbed Apex. “And the grub.”
Metamorphosis chuckled and smiled at him. “Yes Pharynx, you can be in charge. Now let’s go find the others.”
“Okay dad.” Pharynx levitated Apex up onto his back, then led them down the street.
Metamorphosis smiled gently at Griff, blushing. Griff just smiled back, bumping against him playfully before following Pharynx. Metamorphosis giggled softly and followed him, smiling. Things were changing, and Metamorphosis couldn’t be more excited about it.
