Chryselia, Princess of the Changelings, flees her home in the hopes of living a life of peace in ponyville. As the saying goes, "How Sentimental."
For eons, Changelings have been thought of of creatures who cannot love, yet fest on it. But what if Changeling could love?
Chryselia, only daughter of Queen Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings, has fled from from her home at the swarm, and has traveled to Ponyville to live out a new, exciting life.
Unfortunately, there are complications.
Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings, captures rarity in an attempt to learn about her daughters whereabouts. meanwhile, decent grows in her ranks, as an old foe rises to take the power from the Changeling Queen, and then, Power over all of Equestria.
Love meets action and adventure as the Changeling Princess makes unlikely allies in an attempt to save her race as well as Equestria's.
The Changeling flew quick away from the dark castle on the twisted mountain side, its windows shrouded in darkness. She had never made it this far on one of her escape attempts. Usually, she never made it past the front guards. But this time, her feminine charms had done the trick. Looking like a miniature Chrysalis seriously helped. Now if her mother found out, those three guards would have been killed instantly. (Making love with the Princess of the Changelings would not be the best way to get a promotion). She grinned to herself at the thought that below her, the rest of The Hive sleeping soundly, maybe watching the moon's path across the starry sky. She, however, would be making her final escape from her own personal hell. No more traditions, no more abusive guards, no more feeding off of the lowly love of the ponies enchained in their dungeon. Tonight, she was going to finally leave this nightmare behind by soaring through the dark-filled night.
She remembered only a few days earlier, when her mother, Queen Chrysalis, had brought a book about the Changeling history into her room. "It'll do you good to do a bit of reading." her mother had smiled at her. Her mother didn't smile to anyone for real. Save her. The thought crossed her mind and her heart gave a small flinch. But she ignored the fact that her mother would go out of her mind with worry trying to find her. She ignored the fact that she would tear lands apart looking for her. She knew she would eventually get over it. Hopefully. That book had provided her with a map of secret passages that lead out of their little valley into the Equestrian Empire. She was going to flee there, and live the life she desired at last.
The night was absolutely still. All The Changelings could hear was the buzzing of her wings. She swooped low over the dark forest tree tops. She was free at last. Free from the guards, free from her mother, free from... what was that loud buzzing sound? Twisting her head around, the Changeling saw three more of her kind bearing down on her. Terror had seized her.
Their going to take me back! she thought, almost paralyzed with fear. And this time, I won't get another chance! Mom will lock me up forever! Heart pounding, the changeling picked up her speed. She tried to remember the route she had read about in the book her mother had told her about. Lets see, the book said.... that it was by the tallest tree in the forest. And it would take me under the mountain, straight to the Everfree Forest. Obviously, the tallest tree wasn't all too hard to find if you were fifty feet above sea level. The Changeling zoomed towards a large, twisted tree, that stood high above the others. As the drone of her pursuers drew closer, she lowered herself lower to the forest canopy, wings skimming the leaves, sending a green tornado in her wake. Slightly blinded, the Changelings behind her swooped up, to avoid the flurry of leaves; but kept tight on her tail. Casting her eyes about, she searched desperately for the dark cave mouth that had been described to her in the book. Banking to the right, she caught a glimpse of a large knot in the large tree. Her heart pounded through her chest as she heard the flapping of changeling wings grow closer. Having nothing to lose, she banked again, and dove straight through the large tree knot.
She plunged down the dark hole, narrowly avoiding clipping her wings on the sides. At first, it was a quiet smooth ride, until an impossibly loud buzzing pierced her ears as the other Changelings dove after her. Startled, the fleeing Changeling’s wing smashed against the wall of the huge trunk. She spiraled down, the ground rushing up to meet her her face. At the last second, she extended her wings. Air filled them with a soft “Whump!” causing her to receive a sharp zip upwards. Using the momentum to hover a bit, she glanced about her surroundings, taking in the layout of the cave. The stalagmites and stalactites were protruding from the floor and the ceiling like the teeth of some large monster. The sound of water dripping in the distance gave her an urge to not dwindle too far in. Bravely, she flew onwards through the dimly lit cavern.
It didn't take long for the Changeling to hear the,now utterly annoying, drone of her pursuers. Moonlight pierced her eyes as she approached the cave entrance. Her wing beats were growing slow, and labored, but she strained on, knowing that she could never forgive herself if she failed. She burst from the cave mouth, Changelings right behind her. She could see Ponyville coming up, the Everfree forest a blur beneath her. Humming wings stressed, she thought quickly of a way to evade her pursuers. Dodging skillfully through brambles and branches, she dove into the trees, wings buzzing like crazy. Above her, her pursuers picked up speed, by following her from behind.
As the trees began to thin, she could make out a silhouette in the background. It was a pony. Her white coat, and violet mane was illuminated in the moonlit night. A plan ready in her mind, she dove towards the pony. The ivory colored unicorn looked up in surprise, but it was too late. The Changeling tackled her to the ground. Upon contact with the pony, her body began to glow and change till she was an exact replica of the little Unicorn. They rolled a few times, and the Changeling glimpsed the Changelings that were hovering above her, trying to determine which one was her. She desperately tried to rustle around, forcefully trying to kick the pony off of her. “Get away from me you-you Changeling!” she cried. The unicorn looked up in confusion.
“Wha-” she wasn't even able to complete her word before the three changelings were upon her, grabbing her hooves and raising her into the sky. “Unhand me!” the pony yelled. “Let go of me you brutes! Help! Help me Sp-” she was cut off as a Changeling kicked her in the back of the head, knocking her out. They flew off, headed back for the rest of the Swarm.
The Changeling watched gleefully. “Finally, I’m free!” she said aloud. She rolled in the grass happily. “Free, free. FREE!!” she jumped out, and admired her body. It was a rather beautiful white mare, with a purple mane. Looking at her flank, she saw a triple blue diamond cutie mark. The wind ruffled over the unicorn’s coat, causing her to glance to her right. There, a small necklace was lying on the ground. Curious, the Changeling clopped over to it and kicked it over. It was a beautiful red Fire Ruby necklace, in the shape of a heart. Admiring it, she encased it with her dark green magic, and turned it over. There was an inscription on the back.
This is the property of Rarity, from my little Spikey-Wikey.
“Rarity!” Chryselia’s ears twitched. “Wake up Rarity!” Light flooded her vision as she blinked her eyes open. Standing over her was a small purple dragon. For a minute she was confused. Where was that idiot guard who insisted on kicking her awake every morning? Suddenly memories of the last night came flooding back to her. Running away, being followed, that weird pony being taken away. She sat up quickly realizing that she must have fallen asleep outside. Glancing around, she noticed the small purple dragon looking up at her in confusion,
“What’s wrong Rarity?” The dragon took her hoof in his hand. She napped it away, confused. The little dragon looked hurt. “Rarity? Its me, Spike. Are you okay? Did you hit your head or something?” Spike. The name that was written on that necklace that the pony had dropped. This must be her pony... dragon-friend? The thought puzzled her for a moment. Once again, the dragon, Spike, tried to take her hoof again. This time, she did not move away.
“Oh I'm fine Spike.” She said. Spike the dragon stared at her. “What?” she asked.
“What happened to your accent?” he inquired, eyebrows scrunching up.
Chryselia froze. “My what?” she said, a slight hint of fear entering her voice.
“Your accent.” Spike said. He did a little stage cough to clear his throat, the spoke in a terrible imitation of a Mid-Atlantic English accent. “Oh darling i'm absolutely fine.” he said. Chryselia was taken aback. If this “Rarity” speaks like that, she must be up tight. She paused. And everyone must hate her. Either way, unless she wanted her cover to be blown, she had to fake it.
“I'm sorry Spike,” she said, in a perfect imitation of Rarity’s voice. “I was trying to see what you would say if I switched accents.” She grinned at him timidly for emphasis. Spike broke into a wide smile.
“It was great Rarity!” he then looked at the ground. “But you regular voice s-suites you.” he said, blushing a bit. Chryselia rolled her tongue against the wall of her mouth. This dragon had a thing with a pony? She thought. she wasn't even of the opinion that this was even possible. Dragons and ponies don’t mix. It was common knowledge. But apparently, these two had something going on. And unless she wanted to head back to the hive, she would have fake it.
Levitating Spike gently, she lightly kissed his scaly cheek. That was another thing. The entire, “lets imitate ponies and ruin their love lives,” that most of her kind enjoyed was lost to her. She didn't see the point in doing so. How hard was it to gain some actual affection from a pony? This creature was absolutely smitten with the unicorn mare she was imitating, so it could really be that hard, could it?
The little dragon looked up with her, trying not to blush, and changing the subject. “Are you ready for Fluttershy’s party?” he asked. Chryselia looked at him blankly. Spike sighed. “Honestly, are you okay? It was your idea to have a party for her.” Chryselia gave a light, uncomfortable laugh.
“Oh yes! I remember now.” she said. “It was to celebrate her... birthday?” she asked hesitantly.
Spike laughed. “I never thought you’d be pulling funny jokes like that Rarity! Its to celebrate her reforming Discord!” Chryselia’s blood turned ice cold. Only days before, had her mother told her how the cruel, and chaotic Discord had turned leaf and decided to use his powers for good, thanks to Fluttershy, the Element of Harmony wielder of Kindness. She silently scolded herself. How could she not have realized that this was the one and only Rarity she was imitating? Her mother had spent endless hours lecturing her on them, so how could she not have realized...
“Oh... yes!” she stammered. “And Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle will be there too right?” Maybe she got it wrong?
“Oh yes! and Applejack, and Pinkie Pie!”
Nope.
“ Oh, And, Twilight says that maybe Princess Luna will take time off to come down during her free time!”
Hoooooo-raaaay. Just pile on the pressure.
“By the way,” Spike started. “Did you finish those dresses? The ones you said you’d give to Fluttershy?”
Oh for the love of...! Some very colorful language sprung into her head at that point, and she had to bite her tongue to keep her from spraying it all over the little dragons face. He was looking up at her with large adorable eyes. She flashed him a pained smile. “Of course I did darling!” she said. “I wouldn't leave my friends hanging.” She managed to put on a sincere smile this time. Spike beamed at her, and gave her a tight hug. Chryselia was surprised. She knew she shouldn't be, after all this is how ponies convey their feelings, but she hadn't been hugged since she was a little child. She leaned towards him, and returned the hug, still a little mystified. Spike backed up a bit, letting her go. For some reason, she felt as though she had just lost something, and wanted it back. Like Spike had given her something during their brief hug, and then taken it away.
“I’ll see you at the party this afternoon!” Spike said. “And don't forget: try to bring something for Luna!” He scampered off in the direction of a large tree, that she could only guess was the library. She sighed. It was going to be a very long day.
It was about high noon by the time she finally arrived at her “home.” Getting there had involved a hoof fight, some accidental throwing of knives, a man yelling, “Not my Cabbages!” and almost being seduced by Mrs. Cheerilee. But she had made it. Rarity lived at her shop, the Carousel Boutique. It was a rather fancy looking place, with a work room and bedroom at the top. Or so Mrs. Cheerilee had said. That pony was the most erotic, fetish, little.... her thoughts were interrupted by a meow. A rather fat, white cat, clawed its way out of a cat flap. It stared up at Chryselia.
Chryselia had never really liked cats. Her mother had once tried to make her happy by stealing a cat from some pony. She had thrown it out of her 1,000 foot high window about three days after. And this one seemed to know what it was looking at, for it hissed at her, and streaked back inside the house/shop.
Chryselia rolled her eyes and walked in after the cat. First things first, what was the condition of the house, and what did she know about Rarity? Upon crossing the threshold, she noticed a small note on the floor. Levitating it to her face, she read it. It was rather difficult, as there were small gems plastered to it, as well as an overwhelming amount of glue.
Dear......
Im..... Applejacks. The Cutie Ma- (there was an enormous glob of glue here) Appleja..... Sweet Apple Acer..... night. ….....cl..... your room. Be ba...... after a few da...........
Love Sweetie Belle.
Of What little she could decipher from this, some pony friend of Raity’s was going to Applejack’s house at Sweet Apple Acres for a few days. She wasn't sure what in pony’s name was the Cutie Ma, but she figured she’d better find out quick. Setting the letter in a nearby table, she walked up a small flight of stairs. She emerged in a small hallway lined with rooms. One said, “Do Not Enter, Rarity’s room.” Well this looks promising. Chryselia thought as pushed open the door, and looked around.
The room was an absolute mess, articles of clothing were strewn about the room. Several Pony-quin stands were littered about the room, as well as ribbons and dressmaking materials. She sighed as she suddenly remembered what her mother had told her.
“Remember dear,” Chrysalis told her. “Rarity has a special way of doing things. She calls it, ‘Organized Chaos.’” Chryselia sighed.
“Mom, where do you find the time to stalk these ponies? If you want to ask one out on a date, just do it. No need be some kind of creeper.” Chrysalis whacked her upside the head.
“No need to be cheeky.” she scolded.. “As punishment, you will reread to me all the names of the ponies who were important in flawing my last invasion.” Then, she giggled and tickled Chryselia with a feather. “Then, we could go and find you something interesting to do.” Chryselia laughed, and fell off her chair. Her mother gazed at her, admiration glowing in her eyes.
For a moment, her heart flinched in pain. For the first time, she felt home sick. Her poor mother must have realized by now that the Rarity she had was not her daughter. She sighed and walked around the enormous mound of clothing to a full body mirror. She stood there, looking at her from as Rarity. Closing her eyes, she concentrated on her true form. A green light glowed from her horn, traveling down her body. As it did, she grew taller, her body grew darker. Her horn grew longer and twisted. Her mane style changed as well changing to an azure green color. Her hooves became hard and sharp, and holes grew into her legs. Opening her eyes, she saw a smaller version of her mother, only about the size of the average pony. Her eyes were different as well, one was red, while the other was a sharp green. Atop her head lay two things: a Small black crown, with three green orbs on if, and a silver crescent moon hair pin, sparkling in the soft, yellow light of Rarity’s room. She looked at herself, thankful that her bruises had finally vanished from the night a few days ago. She remembered promising herself that she would get revenge on the Changelings that had violated her. With any luck, she had.
Sighing, she turned around, when something at the window caught her eyes. Staring at her was a gray mare, with nicely done gray-white hair, purple eyes, and a purple bow tie. Chryselia yelped, and took a few steps backwards. The mare in the window jumped back as well... save there really wasn't anything for her to fall onto but thin air. The mare’s eyes widened as she fell backwards. “NOOOO!” Chryselia cried and rushed to the open window. The small mare was free falling to the ground 20 feet beneath her, head first. If she landed, there was no way she would survive.
Reaching out as far as she could, she grabbed the mare’s back hoof, giving her a beautiful view of her.... moving on Chrysellia thought, blushing slightly as she dragged the mare back up into Rarity’s room. The gray pony curled up on her carpet, staring up at Chryselia with huge, terrified eyes. “Wh-who are...” The pony stuttered with a heavy British accent. Chryselia glanced at the mirror, realizing she still looked like herself. Quickly, she shifted back into her Rarity form. The pony gasped, then spoke in a very quiet voice. “Are you going to kill me?” she whispered.
Chryselia rolled her eyes. “Honestly,” she said in her mid Atlantic drawl, which had become automatic now, “If I had wanted to kill you, I just would have let you fall off this house, not save your life.” she sighed. Pony’s can be so stupid. The gray mare collected herself and propped herself up on her forelegs.
“You're obviously a Changeling, so maybe you are trying to get some form of information from me.”
Maybe not so stupid.
“I'm not.” She said. “I swear on the heart of Lilith, the first Changeling.” The gray pony narrowed her eyes, but nodded. Her eyes betrayed her disbelief however. Chryselia decided it would be better to let it slide. “What's your name?” she asked politely. The pony raised her head proudly.
“My name,” stated the mare, holding her head high, “Is Octavia Philharmonica II, first seat Cellist in the Royal Canterlot Orchestra.”
Chrysalis , Queen of the Changelings, stood threateningly over one of her subjects. The Changeling guard had a passive look on its face. Chrysalis stomped her hoof loudly on the marble floor “WHERE IS MY DAUGHTER!” she roared at her guard, green eyes burning with rage. This time, the Changeling flinched a bit, but then attempted to compose itself.
“W-We are unsure as of now.” he stuttered. “But I will order more search parties as soon as-” Chrysalis slammed her foot against the floor again.
“I DON’T CARE ABOUT SEARCH PARTIES!” She raged. “I WANT MY LITTLE BABY BACK!” she moved threateningly upon the guard, who was now cowering in fear. “All I get is a little letter, saying that my daughter has fled the Swarm, after being raped by three of my own personal guards! And look,” she said, motioning out the window, where the carcresses of two Changelings hung, spike driven through their heads, long dried blood drenching the wood, as crows and other scavengers ate the soft tissue in the mouth, and pecked at the creatures eyeballs. “THERE’S TWO OF THEM NOW! I WONDER WHERE THE THIRD IS?!” She was now towering over the terrified guard.
The guard gulped and look bravely into the eyes of his queen. “My queen, he began, “I'm incredibly sorry. But she was so young, and kind, and innocent! I could resist but to show her my loyalt-” there was sickening snap as the Changeling’s head was snapped around, so he was staring at his hindquarters. Levitating to body, Chrysalis snarled in disgusted, and tossed the body through the open window. She clopped towards the exit of her throne room, oblivious the sound of crows and vultures screech as they sped down after the body
Queen Chrysalis walked out down a dark corridor. The only light that was to be seen was the faint glow of her horn as her hoof beats echoed in the tight passage. This was her special dungeon for those who she did not want to hear from. And this mare was definitely one she did not want to hear. It had to be her. The single most annoying pony in all of Equestria. Ahead of her she could see the illumination of a torch. A Changeling guard was there, standing tall, eyes showing no emotion. Sometimes, she preferred them like this. The Changeling bowed as she approached. “My Queen,” The guard said, “The prisoner seems to have decided to stop complaining...” He was interrupted from a high pitched voice of annoyance from behind the door he was guarding.
“Well maybe I wouldn't be complaining if you ruffians would let me go!” said a very annoyed Rarity.
The guard sighed. “Here she goes...” he said in annoyance.
“And that's another thing: what's slop you keep giving me? I am lady, and I deserve to be treated as such. And why does it smell so bad here? And there's a pony skeleton on the wall! Why haven't you bothered to clean up in here? Its so -”
“SILENCE!” Chrysalis roared. Rarity’s voice diminished to a whimper. Chrysalis sighed. “What happened to the Interrogational Changelings I ordered down here?” she asked.
The Changeling raised an eyebrow. “I was forced to remove them from the room. The interrogation got a little... out of hand.” he coughed a bit.
Chrysalis was slightly impressed that at least one Changeling had some sort of decency. “Do you have a name?” She asked. The majority of changelings would answer, “I have no name,” then idly ignore you; however, there were a select few who indeed had names. They were usually the rejects of the hive; against many things that was routine such as kidnapping ponies and the such like. Chrysalis enjoyed debating with these changelings. A spark of individuality was often necessary for her government to flow properly. But, as always, it could lead to power struggles. More than once had she had another Changeling rise up, gathering a small band of followers, and trying to seize control from her. The last rebellion had weeded out most of the changelings with individuality, which had left Chrysalis rather bored until her daughter came along.
So she was surprised when the Changeling responded, “Yes my queen. Some call me Cloud Strife.”
Chrysalis blinked. That name sounds vaguely familiar, she thought. Suddenly, a horrible memory struck her. One she had hoped she could’ve forgotten years ago. She stumbled a bit, and Cloud Strife eyed her passively.
“Is there something wrong my liege?” he asked, a hint of sharpness in his voice. Chrysalis flinched internally, but she forced down the bile rising in her throat.
“No.” she managed to gasp. “Nothing. You are relieved of your duties. Return in twenty minutes.” The Changeling eyed her, before giving her a low bow, and retreating down the hall.
Turning, chrysalis placed a hoof on the heavy metal door. It glowed green before clicking open, the smell of ozone in the air. Rarity was lying in the center. A rank smell hit Chrysalis’s nostrils as she looked about the room, noticing the long dead bodies of ponies chained to the wall, butchered beyond their own reality before being mercifully killed. The Queen relished the thought of doing that to this impossible unicorn. Rarity had already been beaten badly: one eye black, a hoof caked in dried blood and tears, cuts and bruises running up her body; but the eternally annoying mare seemed to only be interested in crying and complaining. She was half tempted just to let her go so the Celestia damned thing would shut up!
“Finally.” Rarity huffed. “Some... creature who can finally be rid of this awful stench. I think its coming from over there, so please, clear it out.”
Chrysalis’s eye twitched. “That stench,” she said, grinding her teeth, “is the smell of hundreds of ponies who have died, and left to rot in here.” Chrysalis grinned nastily. “And unless you decide to stop complaining, and cooperate, you will join them. Is that clear?” Rarity glared at Chrysalis, but said nothing. “Good.” she said. “Now, I have an entire regiment of Changelings ready to attack Manehattan, one of most populated, and worst protected cities in all of Equestria.” Rarity’s eyes widened. “We will murder them all, and then move on to Ponyville and the other cities, until no place but Canterlot that remains standing. If you do not tell me what has become of my daughter, I will order the attack.” She lowered her head so she could stare into Rarity’s eyes. “Is that not clear?”
Rarity gulped, but pulled a brave face. “Obviously, you know nothing of an interrogation.” she said. “Usually, they send the good cop in first.” She flicked her mane. “I hear you're looking for this, ‘daughter,’ of yours.” Chrysalis rolled her eyes, “But honestly, what's going to happen is that you’ll kill me after i'm done talking.”
Chrysalis’ eye twitched. “That would be an absolutely horrible tactical error on my part.” she huffed. “It won’t take too long for your ponies to figure that you are not, well, you. I just want my daughter back. She’s,” her voice suddenly cracked, “she’s the most precious thing I have in this world.”
Rarity’s ears perked. The Changeling was hovering over the brink. Emotionally, and probably mentally unstable. If she could tip her over the edge...
“Rarity sneered the best sneer she could. “So the love thief has a love after all.” she said, making Chrysalis glare at her. “What did you do, scare her off? Or maybe, you just a bad parent. beat her too much?” Chrysalis began to growl.
“If you dare say one more word-”
“What, you’ll kill me?” Rarity laughed and empty heartless laugh. “No you won’t because then, you’ll never see you vile little offspring again! Nit that you even deserve her. All you probably did was abuse her over and over. Let your guards get at her a few times maybe? No wonder she left you. You're a terrible mother!”
At this point, The queen of the Changelings snapped. Green magic flowed from her horn, and surrounded Rarity. Rarity had just enough time to think, oops, before she was thrown against the opposite wall. Chrysalis advanced upon her, eyes blazing with a green flame. “If you will not tell me the information I require,” she said coldly as Rarity struggled feebly, “Then I shall take it from you.” Touching the tip of her horn with Rarity’s, Chrysalis dove into her thoughts. She tore through her memories, throwing around old ones that were useless to her.
Suddenly, she was Rarity, looking out across a field. She was kneading the ground, searching for something. The moon shone high above the sky, surrounded by glittering clouds in the cold, night sky. Suddenly, something slammed into her. It was dark and fast, like an invisible slice of lightning. Rarity looked at whatever had crashed into her, and her eyes widened in surprise as she was looking at a perfect imitation of herself, with glowing green eyes. The fake-Rarity said something incomprehensible to her. She opened her mouth to responded, when suddenly, hooves grabbed her fore-hooves, and dragged her skywards. she flailed and kicked at her kidnappers, until a sudden pain erupted in the back of her mind, and her world went black.
Thats when Rarity began to fight back. It was like struggling through a moat of molasses that enjoyed fighting back. All Chrysalis could see was thousands upon thousands of memory’s of Spike. Spike this, Spike that, there was too much Spike. Chrysalis could see something glittering in her memories. Curious, she pushed towards it... and was shoved back.
Concentration breaking, Chrysalis was thrown across the room. She crashed into the opposite wall, sharp pain shooting up her back. Dazed, she looked up, in time to see Rarity dive for the door. Chrysalis’ horn glowed, and Rarity was thrown across the room. There was a sharp crack as Rarity’s foreleg as it met the wall. Rarity screamed in pain, and fell upon the floor sobbing. Chrysalis staggered to her feet. “That was not a smart move.” she hissed, glaring at Rarity through hazy eyes. Rarity was crying quietly, cradling her broken foreleg. Chrysalis spun around and headed towards the door. “Behave, or join you rotting brethren.” Chrysalis snarled as she walked out the door.
The Changeling Queen thought hard over what she had learned. Her daughter was disguised as Rarity. Meaning she knew exactly where she was. However, she could not go collect her herself, so soon after her failed invasion. No, she would have to try something different. What about this little dragon, Spike? Yes. she could send a Changeling in, and it could disguise itself as Spike. Then Rarity would “escape,” with the fake Spike, and head back to Ponyville, where her daughter would be. Her daughter would be found out, and then be forced to return to her home in hive. To her. Her heart lifted at thought. Now all she needed was a good Changeling that wouldn't blow its cover as soon as it was alone with Rarity. A Changeling with some sense of morals would be nice. And one who had a decent amount of respect.
Cloud Strife clopped past her. “Your majesty.” he said as he walked pass her, dipping his head. Chrysalis grunted in response, then froze, another idea forming in her head.
Octavia sat opposite to the faux Rarity, watching her carefully as she sipped her tea. She was not sure if she believed this Changelings story. The idea that she was talking to the Princess of the Changelings seemed a little far fetched. But she did seem a little different from the Changelings that had attacked Canterlot. This one seemed to have a remote idea of right and wrong. A small spark of individuality, one might say. Octavia set her tea down lightly. The Changeling, or rather, Chryselia, as she preferred to be called, studied her carefully. She seemed rather intelligent, and did not look like any other Changeling she had seen, what with the green mane and twisted horn. And she had heard stories about how the Changeling Queen, Chrysalis, did indeed have a twisted horn. The information did seem lean in Chryselia’s favor, however Octavia had to be sure somehow.
“So,” Octavia asked carefully, “considering that you just told me everything you know, what is to stop me from telling everyone in ponyville about what you had just said?” She watched the Changeling carefully, looking for the slightest hint of fear. The Changeling, however, merely shrugged.
“Nothing I guess.” she said, “But I really don't think you will.” she took a sip of her tea gingerly, then spit it out. “What is in this stuff!? Apples!? I hate apples!”
Octavia ignored the last remark and frowned. “How so?” she asked curiously.
“Well for starters, apples grow on trees, so they taste like trees. And apples have no emotions, it's like they aren't even alive! Who would eat that?”
Octavia rolled her eyes. “I meant,” she said in annoyance,” Why do you think I won’t tell anyone who you are?” Changelings are soooo stupid, she thought.
Chryselia placed her tea down on the table carefully. “I guess I don’t.” she responded thoughtfully.. “But sometimes, It’s right to trust others. To know that there's someone sharing your burden out there.” She looked back up at Octavia carefully. “You seem like an honest pony. A pony who doesn't care about what species a creature is. You’ll help them if they're in trouble. And,” she added, “I could just mess with your memories, and make you forget all this if this goes south.”
Maybe not so stupid.
“Alright,” Octavia said, slightly surprised. “Different question then: What do you want me to do?” She added hastily, “That is, if I believe you.”
“Well,” Chryselia began, “First off, I don't want you running off and telling anyone I’m not Rarity.”
“Obviously. Next!”
“Second, I want you to help maintain my cover. I don’t want anyone to find out.”
Octavia looked a little skeptical, but nodded slowly. “And next?” she asked hesitantly.
“Well...” Chryselia paused, and looked at her hooves. “I... I want you to be my friend.”
Octavia couldn't believe her ears. “You what?” she said, in complete surprise.
Chryselia flinched slightly. “Y-yes.” she said, timidly. “ I've only had one Changeling that I could call a friend. And I don't have him anymore, so I want someone new as a friend.” She looked up at Octavia. “And I did save your life right? That's gotta count for something.”
Octavia was stunned. Admittedly, she didn't really have friends, other than Vinyl Scratch, who was currently away in Canterlot for a few weeks, but she had just met this mare, who technically, wasn't even a mare, but a Changeling, a common enemy to pony-kind. Becoming friends with such a creature would surely lead to trouble. But Octavia secretly relished trouble. Something that would set her hooves along a path that would lead to an adventure wasn't new to her, even if she had given that life up a long, long, time ago.
And besides, she was right about the whole, “helping others of a different species,” thing. This Changeling was alone in the world, and would not last long without somepony to help her. But there was still something nagging at her. Changelings were known to be heartless, and having friends were unheard of. Her curiosity got the better of her.
Octavia sighed. “Alright, i’ll be your friend, but first,” she said curiously, “Tell me about this other friend.Who it it? What's his name?”
Chryselia immediately gave Octavia an enormous hug. “ohthankyouthankyouthankyou!” she said, then sat back down as a disgruntled Octavia attempted to readjust her bow tie. Chryselia blushed a bit, then changed the topic. “My first friend.... well, I met him after school one day. Some of the other Changelings blindfolded me after class and-,”
“Wait,” Octavia interrupted. “You had school?”
“Of course! What, do ponies not have school?”
Octavia opened her mouth to respond, but just rolled her eyes. “Never mind, continue.”
“Well,” Chryselia said, “So these Changelings caught me after school, and blindfolded me. They took me out back, and kicked me to the ground.” She shivered a bit. “Then... they started throwing stuff. I don’t know why, they just didn't like me. They kicked me, spit on me, and they broke my left leg...” she cradled it a bit, but then a smile spread across her lips. “But that when he came. Out of nowhere, I heard this changeling fighting the others. There was a lot of yelling, scuffling around, and screams, but eventually, the others left. Then, I was untied, and my blindfold was removed. There was this changeling there, all beaten up, and bleeding like I was.He had cloudy eyes, like he was blind or something, but he obviously wasn’t. He carried me back to the castle, and gave me too my mother. From then on, he visited me every day. He was the first creature other than my mother, to take any positive interest in me. And when we got back to school, he helped me, and protected my from the bullies. Those two years were really great.” Then Chryselia frowned. “But then, Chrysalis found out.”
Octavia blinked. “I would think your mother would have supported such a decision. what was wrong with you having a special-somepo... I mean, Changeling?” she asked.
Chryselia laughed, and shook her head, “No, it wasn't like that. first off, we were just friends. Actually, he was more like an older brother to me. Second, I can't be sure that my mother found out, but It sure seemed like it. She pulled me out of school, and started teaching me herself. Then, she put in a special request for him to join our royal palace guards.” She shrugged. “Maybe it was her way of trying to bring us together, but it didn't help. We barely saw each other after that. We were both too busy to go visit each other. And when he left, the guards realized that there was no one protecting me anymore, so they started hurting me, and making my life miserable.”
Octavia shook her head in confusion. “I don’t understand. If your mother was Chrysalis, the Queen of the changelings, why didn't she just order them to stop?
Chryselia snorted. “She trusted her guards too much. They just reported that I had done it to myself, and she was too busy to care.”
Octavia stared at her. “What could make your mother so busy, that she couldn't even see that her own guards were assaulting her own daughter?” Octavia felt sick to her stomach. Maternal instincts forcing her take harsh judgments of the Princess’ mother.
Chryselia closed her eyes and sighed. “At first, I really hated my mother for that, but then I understood.” She stared straight at Octavia, eyes a sharp green. “Our race was dying. There was never enough food to go around. That's why Chrysalis invaded Canterlot. And that's why she lost.” Chryselia looked at the sunset in the distance, its soft color illuminating the room. “Our soldiers were so weak, and hungry. An entire regiment was taken out by six ponies, who had probably never been through combat training. Chrysalis had to gather food for our race, or face certain doom. She was neglecting me for the greater good.” She sighed again. “Doesn't mean I have to like it though.”
Observing this fake Rarity, she once again say Chryselia as just a lost and confused child, on her first excursion from her home. Octavia opened her mouth to say something, but suddenly, there was a knock from the door. Chryselia and Octavia both jumped. “Who's there?” Chryselia called, eyes returning to Rarity’s original color.
“It’s me!” Spike called from the other side of the door. “We were all waiting for you! Fluttershy refused to start the party without you! And Pinkie’s about to explode if you don’t get there. And Luna isn't really the patient type either.”
A silent stream of colorful words flowed from Chryselia’s mouth. “Be right there!” she called, moving towards the white door. She glanced at Octavia, a trace of fear in her eyes, before opening the door. Spike waddled in, wearing a small tuxedo tail coat, and a top hat. He grinned proudly as he entered. “What do you think? Pretty snazzy huh-” he stopped mid sentence, his jaw on the floor as he stared at Octavia. Blinking in surprise, she gave him an awkward smile.
“Well, um, hello there Mr. Spike.” She said, extending a hoof. “My name is-”
“Octavia Phillharmonica II, only the number one best musician in all of Equestria! I was at you last concert, where you performed Wooden Overture by Glaze and Tsylion! It was amazing! But why are here? Are you friends with Rarity? Will you autograph my tuxedo?” The little dragon stared up at Octavia with huge eyes. Although adorable, Octavia tried to avoid her fans, as the last ones attempted to kidnap her. But that was a loooong story.
“I'm sorry, but I’m a tad busy at the moment.” The dragon cast his eyes downward in disappointment, and Octavia felt a stab of guilt. “However, I am taking a small vacation in Ponyville, so maybe I could stop by the library some time.” The dragon gave a happy jump of excitement, then turned back to Rarity.
“Oh, I almost forgot! Are Luna and Fluttershy’s dresses done?” A look of horror crept up Chryselia’s face. Time to take one for the team, Octavia thought.
“Yes.” Octavia answered before Chryselia could reponed. “But she.... left it at my house. How about I get it, and bring it to the party?” Spike grew an enormous grin.
“That would be awesome! And then, you could stay for the rest of the party!”
“Oh, i'm not so sure about-”
“Great! wear something fancy!” he walked towards the door. “I’ll leave you two to do you... mare things.” he giggled a bit, before walking out of the room.
Octavia sighed. “Well that was-” she noticed Chrysalis was a bright red. “What's wrong?” She asked.
Shaking her head, Chrysalis blushed a darker red. “I should.... I should find something to wear.” she muttered. “Thanks for helping me out.”
“No problem.” Octavia said slowly. She was acting odd. Like an overly shy mare who had just been put in the same from with her.... realization hit Octavia, with her crush.
“Chryselia,” Octavia asked her, “Do you... like Spike?”
Chryselia’s face turned a deeper red. “N-no! I mean, yes! I mean, he really friendly and nice, and kind, and cute and....”
Octavia nodded. “A Changeling having a crush on a dragon.” she teased. “Now that is indeed a new one in my book.” Chryselia’s eyes widened. Odd. Octavia pondered. This has to be your first or second time meeting him. Theres no way you could form a crush that quick.
“No, I don’t!” she said, face a deep crimson. Octavia could almost hear her heartbeat double. “I’ve got to get ready,” She turned her back to Octavia, head held high, “and so do you.” Octavia left a little snicker escape her lips, before walking to the white porcelain door.
“Don’t wait forever! Because I doubt you’ll be here forever!” Octavia walked out the door in time to see Chryselia throw a dress at it in annoyance. Octavia laughed as she walked down the hall.
As soon as Octavia left the house, her mind entered a blizzard of thoughts. She struggled to contain the rising tide, the fear of returning to her old life, and the fate of the original Rarity. She ordered her thought process.
So, I fall out a window, get saved by a Changeling (the Changeling Princess nonetheless), agree to keep her identity a secret, therefore betraying the Elements of Harmony, then I befriend the changeling... Celestia stick her horn where sun doesn't shine, it’s like my old life is back. She sighed as she walked into a small house next door to the Carousel Boutique. It was a small, quaint place, resembling Fluttershy’s hut more than anything. Octavia pushed open the door, and clopped over the dark, marble floors, the tiles cooling her feet as she crossed them.
There was little furnishings in the house, as Octavia was rarely here. A couch lay in a corner next to an armchair facing a window, a small kitchen, a music stand, a cello, and a low table took up the downstairs. But she wasn't in the mood to take anything in. Her mood quickly growing stormy, she trotted solemnly up a flight stairs to her right. Her upstairs bedroom was a pigsty compared to the nice, clean, downstairs. Maps, compasses, various articals of clothing, and music sheets were scattered about the room. Her carpeted floor was barely visible as Octavia waded across the room to a small, walk in closet with a black, ivory, expensive door. Opening it revealed a room that clashed with the bedroom. It was clean, filled to the brim with beautiful dresses, sealed in special plastic coverings, coloring multiple shades of purple and black. Drawers were shut, and coated with a thick layer of dust.
In the back of the large closet, was Octavia’s prize dress, displayed on a Pony-kin. I was a black a purple beauty, with a low “V” neck, and a black hem. It was made tighter around the back, as to bring out the flank. This was the dress that was to be given to Princess Luna upon her arrival.
However, Octavia did not seemed at all concerned with the dress. Instead, she took her hoof, and pressed it to the ear of the pony-kin. There was a clicking sound, as the blank wall opposite of the dress slid open, revealing a dimly lit room. Lights flickered on washing the her in an eerie, white, light as she walked into the long, stark, room. It’s walls were bare, and completely white, reflecting the light so it hit every angle of Octavia’s body. She closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. A whirling sound buzzed in her ears, as she heard the grinding of gears, and the sound of metal against metal.
When she opened her eyes again, the room had transformed. The walls of the room had slid up, revealing hordes of weapons mounted on shelves. Swords, guns, knives; every type of weapon imaginable. It was an arsenal ment to arm hundreds. All for one cellist pony.
Cloud Strife fell upon his nest in the hive, filled with with dread,. He massaged his temples as he looked around the bleak living quarters he called “home.” There was no furnishing, save a tall cabinet to his left, and a table in the center of the rather small room. As a member of his Queens royal guards, he lived in a special part of the hive, right next to the castle. That made it easier for Chrysalis to find him. She had just left, only after giving him one of the most difficult and emotionally challenging missions of his life...
Cloud opened the door, to reveal a nervous looking Chrysalis. He blinked in surprise as Chrysalis hurried inside. “Is there something wrong my Queen?” he asked, as Chrysalis looked out a window a did a quick surveillance check.
“Nothing.” she said, all too quickly. “I just do not wish for us to be overheard.” After being satisfied that she was safe from any microscopic dust specks that might try to listen in, she gave Cloud her full attention. “I have a special mission for you Cloud Strife.” she said.
“A mission your majesty?” he asked in surprise. Chrysalis lifted her wing, and revealed a saddle bag that then floated over to him. Cloud peeked inside to see several files. He looked up at his queen, confusion in his eyes. Chrysalis cleared her throat.
“Your are to imitate a dragon close to our prisoner, who goes by the name of Spike. Any and all data we have on him are in those files. You are then to be thrown in with our unicorn prisoner, and gain her trust.” Chrysalis began to pace. “Two days from now, the prisoner is going to ‘escape,’ and bring you with her. She will go back to Ponyville, where she will undoubtedly meet my daughter, the fake Rarity. After her cover is blown, Chryselia will flee Ponyville, and then to go into hiding. After convincing Rarity not to report her kidnaping, you are track down my daughter, and bring back to the hive. Use force if necessary.” The Changeling Queen stopped pacing and stared him in the eye. “If you fail, do not bother returning. For it will be very painful for you.”
A small shiver moved down Clouds body, as he knew that the punishment from failing far exceeded a quick death. “Yes your majesty.” He said. “And why, may I ask, am I supposed to convince the unicorn not to speak?”
Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “I thought you were smart!” she scoffed. “Incase you haven't noticed, my last encounter with the Equestrians did not go as well I had hoped. I do not want them getting any smart ideas along the lines of attacking us. Thats why I haven’t already sent an army in to retrieve her.” she returned to her pacing. “I only let them see my army in Manehatten so that they would not focus on Ponyville, meaning it should be easier to infiltrate. This must be taken care of quietly, and discreetly.”
Cloud nodded. “Yes my Queen.” he had said. Any hint of disagreement on this matter could end in his death. It wasn't known to most that Chrysalis was a rather emotional Changeling, though her furry was quite well known.
“Good.” Chrysalis said. “Study the files for two days, then report to me, so that I may test your knowledge.” his door handle glowed green, and she opened door. Right before she left, she turned back, and Cloud was surprised to see regret in her eyes. The hard kind that grows in ones heart, and is lodged there forever. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Then she turned, tight lipped, and left.
Cloud stood up in “bed”. He knew why Chrysalis had shown regret in her eyes. She knew. Or rather, she remembered. And she finally regretted. Cloud walked to his simple little table. Reaching a hoof under it, he flipped a switch. Suddenly, the sides of the table sprung apart to reveal a secret compartment with a rolled up scroll in it. On the center was the Hive’s royal seal. He removed the letter, doing what he had been doing for that last few days since Chryselia had left the Hive. It was almost like a ritual now.
Opening the Letter, he went back to his nest, sat, and began to read the letter aloud:
“Hello, My only friend, I am leaving the Hive, once and for all. I can no longer stay here under any circumstances. I cannot live the rest of my life under the hooves of hundreds who wish to do me harm for no apparent reason. And my mother is too ignorant and busy to help me, or realize that I need her. I will be going far away, where no one can find me. I am sorry. You were like a brother to me; one who truly understood my feelings, and could relate to me. You were there when I needed you, until my mother found out. I guess she didn't want me to have any happy friendship. I remember when we first met. You appeared out of nowhere, and rescued me from those other Changelings. Spending time with you always made me happy. I had my own brother at last! But when my mother took me out of school, and put you in the royal guard, I knew those times where over. On the bright side, Chrysalis finally seemed to show some interest in me. It took her a rather long time though. And she still wasn’t able to listen too me. So, eventually, I was able get ahold of a book that explained routes from The Hive, under the mountain, and out to Ponyville. From there, I will go somewhere far. I’m sorry. I hope they do not blame you for any of this. Good bye. Your friend (hopefully), Princess Chryselia.”
Cloud flipped the paper over, where there was a postscript written in heavy ink.
“P.S., As you never told me your name, I assumed you didn’t have one. So I made you one. It took me a very long time to come up with a name that fit you well. Eventually, I came with the name Cloud Strife, because, like a cloud, you are soft and calm on the inside, but on the outside, you are a cold, hard, fighter, who will do anything to do what you think is right. I hope you don’t stray from that path Cloud Strife. Good bye brother.”
Cloud’s eyes scrollled to the bottom of the paper.
“P.P.S. I seriously mean it this time.”
A little farther.... “P.P.P.S. No, really. Bai.
“P.P.P.P.S. …. I'm going to break my quill now.”
Below that was an enormous blob of ink where, apparently, Chryselia had tried to break her quill, but had sent her ink spilling all over the place.
Cloud sighed and put the paper on his desk. Brother. Thats what he was to Chryselia. He had not assumed that she had felt anything more for him. Not like his feelings. He thought back to the rather fun loving, but depressed Changeling he had fallen in love with. But she was gone now; out of his reach unless he accepted his mission. But he, not unlike Chryselia, did feel guilt when attempting to manipulate others. He felt that it was wrong. Like he was... well, betraying someones trust. Cloud sat, undecided and confused, on the ground of his “home.” Why had Chryselia not just come to him, and ask him for help on his help? Why just run away? Some pieces of the bored weren't fitting. There were plenty of ways to deal with her problem without fleeing the hive.
He began to ponder reasons. Maybe she was on a mission from Chrysalis? But then, why would she ask him to get her back? The mission had gone wrong? But that didn't sound right. Chrysalis wasn't one to fail. she always tried her best at everything, and succeeded at everything, unless it was makeing friends. that too, Cloud began to ponder. Why did Changelings hate the princess so much? Although he wasn't much for socializing either, he usually knew of important things that happened in the hive. But with Chryselia, he was always in the dark.
Perhaps, he thought, Chrysalis knows. He glanced at the letter. And she deserves to know about this letter from her daughter at the least. Picking up the letter in his mouth, he pushed open his door, and walked out into the dark, humid, Hive. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It took him a few minutes to fly to Chrysalis’ private chambers. Nowadays, it was unguarded, due to some kind of mistrust with her guards. They had always seemed a bit sketchy, but recently, they seemed almost traitorous. And with Chryselia’s leave, things had only become worse. Cloud suddenly realized, that without Chryselia, there was no heir to the throne of the Changelings. Without an heir, there would be chaos and pandemonium when Chrysalis finally died. If at all, as Chrysalis had already far outlived previous queens by several hundred years. It was quite odd, but a headache of his was beginning to gather, so he quit thinking about it.
Moment later, he was standing before two large black metal doors, with metallic green handles. The where ominously half open, revealing a small crack of light seeping in between them. Taking a deep breath, Cloud walked to the door, ready to push it open... and froze. Huh? Suddenly, he couldn't move. He was stuck, just outside Chrysalis’ door, Limbs frozen in place, unable to move a muscle. Just watch, he thought. Cloud frowned. Just watch? That didn't sound like a thought of his. Spying was another thing he disliked. But, unable to move, at the mercy of whatever was immobilizing him, he was forced to listen, as the sound of a distressed Chrysalis floated from inside the room.
“Why did she leave? That arrogant little baby! Why? She was never so disobedient as a pupil!” Through the crack in the door, he watched Chrysalis pace in and out of view before a large, comfy looking bed. “She could have just told me what's wrong, instead of just up and vanishing! And leaving me with... this!” A letter was thrown across the room in anger. “A little letter, telling me something she could have told me in person! Why leave just to prove a point!? She stomped a hoof on the floor in anger. “ARGH!” A nearby table flew through an rage. Several other objects sailed around the room. “WHY!?” came a sobbing voice inside. “Why leave me so alone!?” slowly, the glowing green sheets, plates, knives, and various other assortments of household items “Why?” came a quiet dejected voice. “Why, why why?” There was slow clop of hooves as Chrysalis traveled into Clouds plane of view to pick up the letter from Chryselia. Through the door, he could see glowing, green, tears, leaking from her eyes, as she began to read the letter aloud.
“Dear Chrysalis,” The Queen croaked. “Or mother, or whatever you wish for me to call you,
I am leaving the Hive. If you were as good as a mother as you should have been, then you would have already known why. Considering that you weren't, I guess I’ll have to tell you. All those “silly,” prattle I’ve told you are true: the bullying, the abuse, and everything. But you were too busy to care, or that was your excuse. You never supported me when I needed you, and when I finally found someone who could, you ripped him away. Cloud Strife, the one who could be considered my brother, cared about me. He protected me; tried to keep me save. But then you had to butt in, and make everything miserable. You forced him into the royal army, and took me out of School, so you could “personally,” train me. Then all you did was teach me about your humiliating defeat, and how I was supposed to “avenge,” you. Well, thats not what I want. I’m going to live my own life, free, hidden as a Pony. Eventually, I’ll go out far to Manehatten, where there are so many ponies, there is no way you’ll be able to find me. Or maybe, even Canterlot. I hope you're happy now, daughterless and with enough time to rule your empire without some little burden you have to carry around. good luck with that.
Former Princess Chryselia.
By the time she was done reading, Chrysalis’ had burst into tears, flinging herself onto her bed. Cloud himself, couldn’t believe that Chryselia could be so cruel as to blame her own mother as the cause of her unhappiness. but almost nothing could prepare him for what happened next..
“I'm so sorry my daughter!” Chrysalis cried. “I thought I was helping you by moving that Changeling to the royal guard. I thought you would see him more. I took you out of school so you could have more free time! Why didn't you tell me?” she buried her head beneath a mountain of bedsheets. “But you did tell me! But I didn’t listen. If only I had made more time for you! If only I had listened! If only-” Chrysalis choked, and sobbed into her pillow. Cloud stared in astonishment. never had he seen a Changeling, save Chryselia, ever cry. It was unheard of, even for those who had a remote feeling of emotions. Cloud so much wanted wanted to go in and comfort her to reassure her that Chryselia would return.
No you don't, [/i ]he thought, then blinked. That was an odd thought. She ruined everything for you. why would you reassure her? She deserves to feel this pain. He was right. Chrysalis was playing with him. She was a cruel, heartless creature. Why would she... he halted. What was he thinking? there was no way Chrysalis could know she was here. these thoughts were not his.
Cloud’s mind was suddenly swamped with pain. Why would she care about some little Changeling? Even if it was her daughter? a dark voice whispered in his mind. Cloud, finally free to move, shook his head, trying to clear his... no, it’s thoughts, for there was no way they could be his. He turned, and the blinding pain in his head seemed to squeeze at his very consciousness. You should kill her. It thought. Take revenge, make her pay for all the heinous crimes she has committed. Cloud cringed, forcing his eyes to stay open. He glared at his reflection on the dark marble floor and reared back at what he saw.
It was him, but twisted. He was taller, face a mask of insanity, wearing a dark twisted grin, eyes, both a chilling red, and his horn twisted in the same way Chrysalis’ and Chryselia’s were. Kill her. It thought. We want her blood spilling down the hive don’t we? All that marvelous red blood. The thrill of the kill. He stumbled away from Chrysalis’ chamber, head feeling as if it was a painfully beating heart. Kill, kill KILL!” [/i ]Cloud ran, agony melting all his thoughts, other than a sudden desire to kill. He must get away before he hurt someone. even more white hot pain seared his mind as he ran headlong into a wall. The malevolent spasms leaving him, only to be replaced by the felling of.. well, a head crashing into a marble wall. Dizziness swallowed him head first, and he felt a presence behind him. Lifting his head, he made out a blurry figure standing over him. Until next time. It thought, before Cloud Strife lost consciousness.
General Bulvar of the Eastern Changeling regiment looked over Manehatten with malice in his eyes. Watching the disgusting ponies of this city made him increasingly annoyed that he had been forced to watch over this part of the swarm. Pacitance, he told himself. Soon, the Hive, and then Equestria, will be all yours. He relished this thought for a few moments before one of his scouts entered his war tent, overlooking both the great city as well as an entire army of Changelings. “Yes, what do you want?” he said, peeved that his day dream had been interrupted.
“Sir, we did as you have asked. The Queen visited one of her guards, before going into her chambers, and crying over the letter from the princess once again.” A smile spread on his lips. Poor little Chrysalis, first, paying too much attention to her guards, and now, too distracted too. What a shame.
“And what news on the princess?” he asked. The scout suddenly looked skittish.
“She is still in Ponyville sir. She has not left Ponyville. And the legion is in position.” Bulvar narrowed his eyes.
“But...?” He asked dangerously. “You do know that any failure will result in the death of every single one of your correct?”
The scout flinched. “Y-yes sir. It’s only a s-small, trivial problem sir.” he said, fear creeping into his voice. “P-Princess Luna is making the visit to Ponyville instead Princess Celestia.”
Bulvar’s eyes widened. “WHAT?!” He roared. “WHAT HAPPENED TO POISONING HER!?”
The scout curled into a ball, terror overwhelming him. “Un-unfortunately,” he said meekly, “Princess Celestia accidently took the poison.”
Raising a hoof, Bulvar slammed it down on the scouts head. The Scout screeched in pain as his generals sharp hooves dug into his skull. “You know how powerful that Alicorn is! One thousand years on the moon has given her almost limitless reserves of magic to draw from! We had to drug her during the invasion just to get in without being eradicated on sight!”
The scout merely whimpered in excruciating pain. “I’m sorry sir!” he said. “But we won't fail! I have a plan! Please General, don’t kill me!”
The General snorted in disgust and raised his hoof. “What is it?” he asked.
The scout stood and composed himself. “Queen Chrysalis has ordered one of her guards to impersonate some creature close to her prisoner: A “Spike,” or something like that. The guard is supposed to guide the prisoner back to Ponyville, blow the princess’s cover, then ‘escort,’ the princess back to the Hive.”
“And that helps us how?” asked the general impatiently.
“Well...” said the the scout, “What if Luna was to find out who Chryselia really was prematurely?” The General pondered this, a geting a general idea of what his scouts obsen plan was. It seemed ridiculous, but...
“You want to make Luna kill the our Princess?” he asked.
To most, one would think that if a general of an army heard that one of his soldiers was making plans to kill the heir the the Queen’s throne, he would report it immediately to a higher official, or deal with the problem him/her self; however, for General Bulvar, this plan was one he had already been thinking of for weeks. Getting rid of the princess, then the Queen, and establishing himself as ruler of the hive, seemed like a magnificent idea. And next, crowning himself King of all of Equestria, and of the Changelings. Yes that sounded amazing...
He shook himself out of his day dream as his scout answered him. “Yes sir, that's exactly what I mean. Once Luna has disposed of the princess, Chrysalis will undoubtedly try and take revenge on her. The resulting battle will destroy them both! Then, with no legitimate heir to the throne, and Celestia sick, you will easily be able to conquer both the Hive, and Equestria, and place yourself as ruler of both! and most of the Hive is already on your side, so It won’t take much more than a small push to topple them into you hooves!”
General Bulvar grinned maliciously at his scouts plan. “Brilliant!” he said. “Deliver the news to the rest of our troops stationed near Ponyville. Spread the word that they are too attack when ready!” The scout nodded and took his leave. Bulvar Looked back out over his encampment. Twelve thousand Changelings were under his complete control, ready to live or die at his hand. Soon, the entirety of Equestria would be his to rule. The only thought that flew through his head was all the power he could control.
So lost in his dreaming, he did not hear the approaching heavy footfalls, and the dripping of some kind of liquid falling to the ground. General Bulvar hummed to himself as he returned to his large tent, the dim light if his lantern being the only light in the dark night, save two large ferocious, blood red eyes. The General glanced around as he heard a soft growling outside his tent. “Whos there?” he called suspiciously. “Come out now, or face my-” the threat died in his throat as the shadow of something enormous loomed over his tent. His eyes widened as he notice two glowing red eyes through the tent. The growling grew louder as he stumbled back.
“Guards.” he whispered quietly. “Guar-!” his sentence was cut off as whatever-it-was-with-glowing-red-eyes lunged through the tent, and grasped Bulvar with razor sharp teeth. The lantern was knocked to the ground as the creature swung bulvar to and fro, painting the sides of the tent red with blood. The general screamed in terror as his body parts were ripped from his body in gory indescribable sounds.
Around the encampment, hordes of Changelings were awoken by the sounds of their generals screams. They rushed towards the tent, murmuring and crying for their leader, covering up the sudden snapping sound, and the eerie silence from inside the tent.
“General!” a Changeling called. “Are you alright?”
Obviously, the IQ of a Changeling must not be that high.
But, miraculously, from the opening flap of the tent walked none other than General Bolvar, covered in blood, and with a manic smile on his face. “My sincerest apologies for the noise!” he said brightly. “Just taking care of a few slight problems!” His eyes flashed a deep dark red. “Please, go back to sleep. We have a busy morning tomorrow!”
Muttering, the Changelings dispersed, as this wasn't the first time one of Bulvar had decided to go a bit over the top on an interrogation. They all retreated to their tents, save three, who moved towards the tent. Bulvar moved to intercept them, ginning. “Oh, don’t bother with that!” He said. “I can clean up my own mess.” The guards stared at him, appalled.
“But you always order us to get rid of your torture victims!” one cried.
“Well, not this time!” he responded brightly.
The three Changelings glanced at each other. the first speaker turned back to Bulvar. “The Phoenix flies at sundown.” he said suspiciously.
The general smiled “Oh does it?” he asked.
The three changelings glanced on each other, and then glared at the General. “SIr, you have failed to comply to the password. You are to be taken to the rest of the Hive for questioning and-” They were interrupted by a loud sigh from the general.
“Goodness, and I just ate! And now you three showed up!” he sighed loudly again. The three Changelings looked confused.
A Cool wind swept through Ponyville, ruffling Chryselia’s ivory dress. It shimmered in the moonlight, bouncing the moon's beams off of the hundreds of small white crystals covering her body. She had found the beauty in Rarity’s enormous collection of dresses, and although it seemed rather eccentric, she assumed this was something Rarity would do.
The SugarCube corner was drawing nearer, and her heart began to beat faster. She was only seconds away from meeting the ponies who had bested her mother; the Elements of Harmony. And she wasn't thrilled. Even with Octavia there, she assumed It would be rather nerve racking, and difficult to keep up the charade. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves.
“Okay. Don’t panic.” She said aloud to herself. “It isn't like this is the first time I’ve attempted to imitate somepony. Sure the other tries didn’t end well but this time will be different!’
“I am not sure Rarity speaks to herself about imitating ponies,” came a familiar British accented voice. She spun around to find Octavia standing next to her. She wore a black, tailored suit, with a dark fedora atop her head. She looked like she should be running a mafia, more than anything else. Chrysalis stared at her till Octavia coacked her head. “What is wrong?” She asked curiously.
Chrysalis shook her head. “Nothing.” she sighed.
“Are you... alright?” her grey mained friend inquired.
“A little nervous, but I'm ready! Are you?’
“No”
“Then lets go!” She grabbed Octavia’s foreleg and hauled her towards the SugarCube corner.
“Wait!” gray mare said, pulling her back. “Do you have no resolve? What happens when you go in, and are faced with one of the most powerful creatures in all of Equestria?” glancing toward the window of the bakery, they could just make out the silhouette of the dark alicorn. “If she finds out who you are, you can be sure no amount of swift talking will allow you to live through the encounter.”
Chryselia snorted and tossed her mane, pretending to be unnerved. “You’d be surprised. I’m a good talker.”
Octavia rolled her eyes in response. “Are you sure you can act like Rarity up until we can leave?” In truth, the Changeling wasn’t sure. She had survived this long, but that was mainly due to the little amounts of ponies she had encountered. She wasn’t sure she could keep Rarity’s persona up long enough to fool the Elements of Harmony themselves, as well as the Princess of the Moon. Every Changeling knew how much more powerful the Lunar Goddess was compared to Celestia. Rumors had zipped about the hive, that after Princess Kadenza and Prince Shining Armour had forcefully banished her mother from Canterlot , Princess Luna had chased down her mother, and entered an enormous battle with her. It had never been proven, but it was still worrisome all the same. Octavia was right. If it was to be revealed that she was a Changeling, even worse, Chrysalis’ daughter, she would be worrying about changelings taking her back to the hive.
Her mind began to wander. Why had she left the Hive? All those mean Changelings were picking on you, responded the little Changeling in her head. That is true. And her mother wasn’t helping her. But I could’ve learned to fight, she argued. I could have used my superior magic. The little Changeling in her mind was silenced at this. There were many other options, but why this one? She shook her head, trying to clear her mind, but the thoughts lingered annoyingly like a fly hovering by her ear.
Octavia nudged her. “You are aware that simply declining is indeed an option, correct?”
The Changeling shook her head. “If I decide not to appear at this party,” she spoke with Rarity’s Mid-Atlantic accent, “Then the Elements of Harmony will become suspicious. I must attend.”
Octavia sighed, pulling the hat lower over her face. “Alright, lets go.” she grumbled. “Just.... don't do anything rash. Okay?”
-----
Seconds later, Chryselia, Princess of the Changelings, was deep in conversation with Princess Luna. The SugarCube Corner was a small, rather quaint place. It was covered with an overkill of streamers, so many you had to wade through them, and an enormous yellow banner saying, “Good Job Fluttershy! Your Best Pony!” spawned the entire length of the room. Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy herself where doing a cha-cha around the room, Twilight sparkle holding a small record player,that played music that was too heavy on the Tuba.
So far, So good. Chryselia thought. No one had noticed her ruse. The Elements had greeted her kindly, and she had given Fluttershy a simple, yet elegant looking pink and yellow dress, which she had shyly put on.
Chryselia was now speaking to the Lunar Princess herself. She had marveled at the dress that “Rarity,” had made for her, and was now questioning her about how ponyville had been faring since her return to Equestria.
“Oh, quite well!” she said enthusiastically. “We had a bit of a problem with Fluttershy and Discord, of which I am sure you are quite aware, but nothing too messy.” She smiled brightly at the Alicron, who in turn, smiled, and magically lifted the dress.
“This dress is indeed magnificent Rarity.” She said, twirling it in her dark blue telekinetic grasp. “I must ask, Where did you get the inspiration from such a thing?” She peered at her curiously.
Chryselia rolled her tongue against the side of her cheek. How was she supposed to know what inspired this unicorn to make all her fancy dresses? And something about the tone the Alicron had taken was beginning to worry her. something seemed off. She decided to tread carefully.
“Oh, it was nothing important.” She said, giving her a winning smile. “The night sky, yourself of course, and various other things of little importance.”
The dark Alicron frowned, and turned the dress around. “I see.”. Alarms were beginning to go off in the Changeling Princesses head. Something was definitely wrong. The alicron twirled the dress around again before looking deep into her eyes. “It just so happens,” she informed her, “That as I was on my way here, I noticed a small shop displaying a rather valuable, rare, dress, that looked near identical to this one here.” Chryselia couldn’t move. Uh-oh.
“Now, you see,” the Alicron stood. “I know Rarity. She would never claim credit to a dress she did not create. It’s not in her generous nature. Second, Rarity would give an enormous speech about where she got her inspiration from. Not a few words about how its not important. And finally,” Chryselia’s heart skipped a beat, “Rarity does not have dark green eyes.”
Chryselia blinked. Dark green eyes?Why do I have- A Sudden explosion of pain seared from the base of her horn. She screamed in agony and tumbled to the floor, where the floundered about, horn glowing painfully bright. “What's happening!?” she called allowed, and was appalled to find that her voice... was her own! Green creaks of light ran up her horn, and down her body, tearing away at the marvelous dress she had ‘borrowed,’ from Rarity’s room. She screamed in pain and terror as the agony overwhelmed her mind, tearing away all she could think, all she could feel-
And then it was over. Just like that, the pain vanished leaving her sitting in the middle of a badly scorched floor... and in front of a very powerful, very mad looking Alicron.
The Lunar Princess rose onto her back hooves, lightning crackling around her horn. “Chrysalis!” She roared in her ear splitting Canterlot voice. “Does thou honestly conceive that thou could even try to fight me again!? Well thou thought wrong!” Before she could do as much as think, Chryselia was blasted into the opposite wall in an explosion of pain, blood, and magic.
She looked down at her chest, and marveled at her actual lack of it. All she could see was a gory mess of blood. Darkness enclosed on her vision she she began sinking to the floor, her eyes growing heavy. Out of the corner of her vision, she could make out Octavia speeding in Luna’s direction, pulling something out from inside her jacket. The lavender unicorn staring at her, and a random ball of pink running around the room screaming,”‘Everypony ruuuuuun! It’s Chrysaliiiiiiiis!! Ooooh, that rhymes!”
The alicron approached her with a smirk etched on her face. Her eyes fell, and the darkness took hold of her mind. She lost consciousness at the first gunshot.
