Of all the rulers in Equestria, the Princess of Love was perhaps the most beloved, simply because she seemed so approachable compared to the rest of the almighty alicorns; wielders of the sun, moon and magic itself. In comparison Cadance was known for her patience, her kindness, and above all for her all-consuming love towards the stallion who had stolen her heart.

All of these wonderful qualities were being severely tested at the moment.

“I have a bad feeling about this.”

Cadance resisted the urge to sigh, but it was a close thing. It felt like the hundredth time she had heard the same phrase today, repeated over and over again by her dear husband; it was a good thing she loved the stallion so very, very much, or she might have snapped at him to be quiet. Instead she reached out and squeezed Shining Armor’s hoof in a sign of silent support. She gave him a tired smile, making sure he knew she was there for him, then went back to staring out the train window.

The view outside was a pleasant distraction at least. Frozen tundra had long-since given way to rolling fields of green, the Crystal Express leaving her northern Empire far behind. Canterlot Mountain was growing taller and taller on the horizon, the castle gleaning in the midday sun like a beacon of hope. Cadance gazed at her old childhood home with a pang of nostalgia, yearning for the feathery embrace of the alicorn who had adopted her so long ago... but the crystal train wasn’t headed for the safety of Celestia’s castle. No, they were headed towards a far more dangerous, far less comforting seat of power.

The Friendship Castle, Queen Chrysalis’ castle.

No, not hers. It’s still Twilight’s castle. Cadance thought somberly.

It irked her to no end that she now had to associate the changeling with the Friendship Castle. She used to love the place, she was so proud of her little Twilight for earning such a reward —yet another thing Chrysalis had managed to corrupt in her mind. She dearly hoped the changeling hadn’t destroyed the castle completely, but she had no illusions about the state she would find the place in: it was most likely covered in green slime by this point, the elegant crystal towers turned into hive clusters, the splendid crystal walls marred with changeling muck.

After all, it had been a month since the wedding, ample time for Chrysalis to do permanent damage to the castle… and its inhabitants.

“Twilight, I really hope you’re ok…” She whispered, her heart throbbing painfully.

She heard somepony shuffling next to Shining, and another hoof landed on hers. “She’s fine dear.” Twilight Velvet’s voice was steady and strong, her words carrying the unyielding confidence of a proud mother. “She wouldn’t have invited us if it weren’t safe to go. And you read her letters, Twilight sounded happy.”

“I don’t know about that.” Shining grunted. “She says everything’s fine, but she refuses to go into specifics. Luna hasn’t given us any information about her surveillance either. That’s not like them.”

“I don’t think it’s that surprising.” Night Light offered from Velvet’s other side. His tone was light and casual, the older stallion’s usual optimism in stark contrast with Shining’s doom and gloom. “Twilight is probably too bashful to go into details about her honeymoon, and Luna is just trying to preserve their intimacy.” He leaned forward to give Cadance a playful wink, then turned to his son. “You know how newlyweds can be...”

“Please don’t talk about Twilight being with that… monster.” Shining shivered, a look of disgust on his muzzle. He tugged his hoof free and hopped off the cushioned bench, pacing along the cabin length. “I should have gone to check on her a long time ago.”

“We had to respect their honeymoon.” Night Light said patiently. It was far from the first time they’d had this discussion, it was a heated topic ever since the Sparkle parents had stayed in the Crystal Empire, just after the disastrous wedding. “Having Luna trail them was already a risk. If her family showed up uninvited, if we broke tradition, Chrysalis could accuse us of disrespecting the treaty.”

“I know, I know.” Shining exhaled. He pressed his brow to the window, leaning on it with a defeated expression. “It’s just... I should have been there for her.”

Silence descended upon the cabin, the only sounds coming from the crib attached to the opposing bench. Flurry made the most adorable little noises while she slept, her childish snores sounding like a mix between a bird chirping and a kitten mewling. Cadance watched over her foal, her worry growing tenfold. Leaving her filly behind in these uncertain times was out of the question, but the closer they got to Ponyville the more she questioned her decision to bring her along.

Still, she trusted Twilight, and she trusted Luna. Her step-sister and her aunt had said it was safe, and Cadance knew she could count on her family. The lack of concrete information was worrying, but she pushed her doubts aside. She needed to be strong, for Twilight, for her husband, and for her extended family.

Cadance reached out to hug Shining around the shoulders, humming soothingly as he leaned into her embrace. Her eyes turned to the window, and an involuntary shudder ran through her spine; she could now see Ponyville’s belltower in the distance, they were almost there.

Cadance took a bracing breath. She wanted to believe Twilight was unharmed, she wanted to believe her precious sister’s life hadn’t been ruined by a political marriage. Yet her every thought returned to Chrysalis, and she couldn’t help but shiver when she remembered the nightmarish mare.

Still, it was time. It was time to meet with the monster who had stolen her identity, her husband, her wedding, and now her sister. If Twilight had been right all along, and Chrysalis really was redeemable, she would do her best to help with the changeling’s reformation. But if Chrysalis had harmed her little Twilight, if the little alicorn was broken in any way… She closed her eyes, reigning in her anger.

Cadance spent the rest of the trip deep in thought, hoping for the best, yet still preparing for the worst.

The walk from Ponyville’s train station to the castle had been surprisingly enjoyable, all things considered.

Cadance didn’t know what to expect when they arrived, but the fanfare and welcoming crowd had been most appreciated; even if it had woken up a very excitable Flurry Heart. It seemed Chrysalis’ presence in town had done very little to impact the inhabitants’ mood, though she had caught Shining Armor casting discreet changeling revealing spells whenever he thought nopony was looking.

Even more surprising, the castle was untouched. Not one blotch of green resin to be seen on the twinkling spires, not a single sign that Ponyville had a new Queen. Cadance watched the crystal walls with tentative hopefulness while they trotted across the front courtyard, her horn glowing while she kept a levitating Flurry Heart from fluttering away in the wind; that filly was nothing short of an escape artist, keeping a magical tether on her had become a habit of hers.

“Cadance?”

She blinked and found that her family was looking back at her, all of them waiting at the door while she gawked at the castle. She hurried to catch up, Flurry floating behind her like a cute fluffy balloon. She didn’t dare jump to conclusions yet, not until she had seen Spike and Twilight, but the unblemished castle still made her optimistic for what she would find inside.

She exchanged a quick glance with her husband, the stallion seeming a lot more reserved than she was, and he pressed the doorbell. The crystalline shime echoed around the castle, quickly followed by a distant call.

“Coming!”

Spike’s voice sounded eager and cheerful, putting to rest a few more of Cadance’s fears. They all looked at each other with big smiles while they waited for their favorite dragon to get to the door. Shining’s scowl even cracked a little, letting his usual kind smile shine through; the stallion did love his adoptive little brother/nephew a lot. Soon the door was pushed wide open, welcoming them inside.

“Hi guys!” Spike said with a big boyish grin. “Glad you could make it!”

“Hey sport!” Night Light gave the little guy a bearhug, ignoring his half-hearted protests. “How are you?”

“Fine, fine.” He mumbled, embarrassed by the show of family love. He grumbled when Velvet hugged him even tighter, though he couldn’t quite hide his pleased smile.

“It’s been so long!” Velvet let go of him and gave him a once over, an exaggerated gasp leaving her smiling lips. “Have you gotten taller?”

“Uh, maybe? I guess my basket feels a little cramped lately.” Spike said distractedly. He shot Shining an inquisitive look, apparently aware that the stallion had just cast a spell on him. “What was that?”

“Just a precaution.” Shining smiled innocently. He reached with his hoof, and Spike bumped it with his fist. “Good to see you Spike.”

“Yes, we missed you.” Cadance smiled fondly, her wing unfurling to invite the little drake closer.

“Awww, we saw each other at the wedding.” Spike said dismissively, though he readily accepted the feathery embrace.

Cadance chuckled, but internally her mind was racing. Velvet wasn’t kidding, Spike was noticeably taller. He hadn’t grown much for years, which they figured was normal for a long-lived dragon, but now in just a month he had grown at least a few centimeters. Her feathers ran over his back, finding that his spines were unmistakably harder than before. Instead of being soft and pliable, they were hard and even somewhat sharp. And his smile… something about his smile…

Spike saw her looking down at him, and he responded with an ear-to-ear grin.

His teeth, his teeth were bigger, much bigger. Cadance didn’t stop hugging the little guy, but she couldn’t help but shiver a little. He looked different, it was subtle but it was undeniably there; it was silly to say, but he now looked like... like a dragon. She had known Spike since he had hatched, and yet she couldn’t stop her maternal instincts from nudging Flurry Heart away from him. Away from the predator clinging to her leg.

She shook her head, angry with herself.

This was Spike, the child whose diapers she had once changed, not some pony eating dragon. She resolutely hugged him tighter, and brought Flurry Heart closer. The little filly gave a loud chirp as she recognized her cousin, and the poor drake was instantly pounced upon and snuggled into submission. The family watched with big grins as Spike and Flurry rolled on the floor, the little guy soon begging for help while Flurry nuzzled his cheeks.

“Now now Flurry, stop that.” Shining said with fake sternness. “Leave the poor defenceless baby dragon alone.”

“Hey!”

Cadance took advantage of the general laughter to shoot her husband a glance. Their eyes met, and judging by the way his brow furrowed for just a second, he had noticed Spike’s changes too. Velvet and Night Light probably saw it too, but the couple was too busy fawning over Spike and Flurry to catch her looks.

After a few moments of desperate struggle, Spike managed to free himself, Flurry floating away, giggling at his grumpy expression. “Yeah yeah, laugh it up.” He grumbled, smiling at his family. “Now come on, she’s waiting for you.”

They followed the dragon, the same question probably echoing around their heads: which she was he talking about.

The trip to the dining room was done in cheer, Night Light and Velvet catching up with their adopted son… or grandson, the relationship between them had always been a little blurry. Flurry fluttered over the group, half flying and half floating with her golden magic. That gave Cadance the chance to hang back and whisper into Shining’s ear.

“Is this a normal growth-spurt for a dragon his age? Is it greed again?” She made sure only her husband could hear her.

“I don’t know.” Shining frowned slightly. “Firelord Ember isn’t too keen on giving us information about dragons, we still don’t know much.”

“Do you think… she did something to him?”

“If she did, she’ll regret it.”

They nodded but could say no more, they had reached their destination. Spike opened and held the door for them, letting them inside the expansive dining room. The chamber was huge, the crystal table capable of hosting a few dozen guests, but at the moment only three ponies occupied the seats. Two of them Cadance didn’t expect, one she was surprised to see was missing, while the sight of the third filled her heart with joy.

“Twilight!” A chorus of voices sounded off, accompanied by a corresponding cheer from the young alicorn. There was a small stampede as the Sparkle family rushed to meet in a mess of limbs, wings and nuzzles; it was a miracle no one lost an eye to a misplaced horn. The last time they had all been together had been to marry Twilight off to an unknown fate, and no one was happier for the family reunion than Velvet and Night Light.

After managing to nuzzle Twilight’s cheeks a few times —a feat considering Velvet seemed resolute in never letting go of her daughter— Cadance stepped back from the Sparkle pile. Twilight was safe, she was healthy, and perhaps most important of all she didn’t seem distraught or in any way depressed.

Blinking away a few stray tears of joy, Cadance turned towards the other two ponies present, trotting towards them with a big smile.

“Rarity, Applejack, how good to see you again.” Cadance inclined her head. She was pleased to see the two ponies remembered her wishes and didn’t bow to her. “This is a nice surprise!”

“A pleasure, as always.” Rarity responded with a glowing smile, her eyes twinkling. Actually, Cadance noticed Rarity’s whole demeanor seemed positively radiant, as if the mare had never been so happy.

Applejack simply tilted her hat in welcome, displaying her usual awkwardness when talking with royalty. She winced when Rarity elbowed her in the ribs, the two mares exchanging a glare. They locked eyes, lost for a moment in a heated —if silent— argument, before AJ relented and blurted a proper greeting.

“Howdy princess… uh…” She scrambled for something to say, looking back at Rarity. Her eyes darted to the unicorn’s belly, and she was struck by inspiration. “Ah see ya managed to lose all that baby weight—.” she was interrupted by another elbow, and they were back to silent bickering.

Cadance’s eyebrows rose into her mane, her eyes widening as she watched their interaction. She didn’t need to be the princess of Love to notice that something was going on between those two: the way they stood so close together, the way Applejack’s tail unconsciously brushed against Rarity’s sides while the unicorn’s wrapped around her back-leg, the long looks they kept exchanging… it was blindingly obvious.

“Sooo,” Cadance said innocently, her mind working a mile a minute to unravel the mystery relationship before her, “I am delighted to see you again, but I didn’t expect Twilight to invite her friends to a family reunion.”

The two mares exchanged another glance, then they both looked at Twilight at the same time. Cadance’s ears perked up when she saw the same kind of warmth directed at the young alicorn, the two ponies watching Twilight as if looking for guidance, or perhaps permission? It was as if the invisible threads of a hidden relationship were appearing before her eyes, every little glance, every little gesture from Applejack and Rarity revealing more and more.

Oh my god, did Twilight start a herd? The thought sent a school of butterflies inside Cadance’s belly, but she soon curbed her enthusiasm. Wait, what about Chrysalis, how does she fit into this… let’s find out.

She waved her hoof in the air, smiling kindly, “Not that I mind your presence at all, I thought I would have to deal with Chrysalis, I’m so glad you are here in her place. I’m sure she has been a pain in your flanks, right girls?”

Awkward shuffling, a half hearted noise of agreement from Applejack, eyes lowered to the ground, a surprising amount of blushing from Rarity’s part… Definitely a four member herd, perhaps more? Cadance was about to probe a little further, see what else she could glean, but it seemed the Sparkle family was finally all hugged out.

“Dad, Mom, you remember Rarity and Applejack.” Twilight trotted over, her parents following close behind.

“Of course!” Not one for ceremony, Velvet simply hugged both ponies tightly. “How good to see you!”

Shining Armor politely nodded, smiling warmly, but Cadance could tell he was dying to cast his changeling revealing spell on them. He held on to Flurry Heart, the little alicorn chirping at the mares who cooed in response. Cadance didn’t miss the look Rarity gave Applejack either, the kind of look that screamed “I want one”.

Night Light shook AJ’s hoof firmly, then exchanged a Canterlot courtesy with Rarity. “Are all your friends coming over Twilight?” He looked around the room, as if expecting to see Pinkie Pie hanging from the rafters, or Fluttershy hiding in a corner. “I promised a friend I’d get Rainbow Dash’s autograph, he’s a big Wonderbolt’s fan....”

“No, Rainbow Dash isn’t coming, just Rarity and Applejack.” Twilight chewed on her lips nervously, the complicit glance she shot at her friends all but confirming Cadance’s suspicions. Those three were in a relationship. The nature of it still escaped her, but it was beyond friendship, she was sure of it. “I… well, there’s something I need to tell you… about us… ahm, why don’t we take a seat.”

Family and friends shuffled over to the table, where they sat in pairs. Twilight presided at the head of the table, with Cadance, Shining and Flurry on one side, the others taking place across from them. Only now did Cadance realize Spike had vanished at some point, though knowing the little guy he was probably busy bringing their food.

Twilight cleared her throat, and all eyes turning to her. “I can’t begin to tell you how glad I am to have all of you here, this past month has been…” She faltered, looking for the right words. “It’s been…”

“Exciting?” Rarity supplied helpfully, a teasing smile on her lips.

“Disturbing?” Applejack deadpanned.

“Challenging.” Twilight finished, ignoring her two friends.

“Are you okay?” Shining asked, his brotherly worry instantly returning. “Do you need our help?”

“No no, I’m fine, really.” Twilight hurried to say. “Chrysalis has been…” She hesitated, seeming to consider sugarcoating the truth, but a look from Shining told her to be honest with them. She sighed, then mumbled out with bad grace. “She’s not as bad as we feared…”

Not the best indorsement. Cadance noted, a thought shared by the rest of her family if their looks were of any indication. But it could have been worse… much worse.

“Did she…” Velvet fidgeted with her napkin. “Did she hurt you in any way?”

Twilight didn’t answer, her eyes falling down to her empty plate. The heavy silence that followed was answer enough. Shining’s fur bristled like an angry dog, the red-hot anger radiating from the stallion making Cadance fear he would leap out of his seat to hunt Chrysalis down... until a gentle murmur made him pause.

“Chrysalis isn’t like us.” Twilight said softly. “She comes from a world where sentimentality is a weakness, and where kindness is a flaw to be exploited; and that’s exactly what she did. I’m not making excuses for her, I just want you to understand. She’s done things I can’t forget… things I’m not sure I should forgive. Not that I blame anypony else for it.”

Twilight exchanged a meaningful look with Rarity, the unicorn nodding in understanding, which made Cadance’s mind go into overdrive. What had happened between Twilight, Rarity and Chrysalis? She could sense a wound in the relationship between the two mares, but it seemed long healed and mended. She could feel that the bonds linking the two mares were stronger than ever, going beyond simple frenship. It seemed she was the only one to notice, so she kept quiet, listening to Twilight’s explanation.

“Chrysalis is a liar, she’s manipulative and at times she can be outright vicious.” The brutal honesty took the Sparkle family by surprise, Velvet and Shining seeming just about ready to leap out of their chairs, one to hug her daughter, the other to avenge his sister. “But…” Twilight took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and when she opened them Cadance saw a surprising amount of warmth in them. “She can also be kind, attentionate, and generous. I don’t think she wants to be bad, I think she just doesn’t know any other way of living, and she’s gotten a lot better since the wedding. With a little more time I’m sure we could—”

“So you’re saying she didn’t mean to hurt you, that she just had a hard life, and that you just want to help her be better.” Shining interrupted, his expression hard. “Twilight, I was in the Canterlot Guard, I’ve heard all these excuses from mares and stallions who come to the station with a black eye or a broken nose.”

“It’s not like that.” Twilight assured earnestly.

“I’ve heard that too.” Shining voice was steely, his mind made up.

“Shining, it’s not what you think.” Twilight said patiently. “I think I sounded a little too negative just now: what she did was… well let’s just say she betrayed my trust, and I’m not sure I have forgiven her yet. That’s all. She didn’t lay hooves on me, not even once. She’s never injured me or even permitted I be harmed; she’s fiercely protective of me.”

“What about those scars on your neck?” Night Light asked in a neutral tone, his expression guarded. Twilight’s eyes went wide, her cheeks going red as she tried to hide her neck with her mane. “I noticed them while we were hugging, they look like bite marks.”

“Bite marks?” Shining shot upright, his front hooves on the table. “What bite marks!”

“Oh dear…” Rarity sank a little deeper in her seat, trying to hide her blushing cheeks. “I didn’t use enough makeup.”

“Told ya we shoudda used a scarf.” Applejack grunted next to her, the earth pony keeping an eye on a fuming Shining Armor.

“But scarves are completely out of season!” Rarity whined. “They are so shallow, I thought they would be imperceptible…”

“Don’t feel bad, I have good eyes for that kind of thing: I was a field medic in the royal guard in my youth.” Night Light’s gaze jumped from Twilight’s flustered expression, to Rarity’s forced smile, before finally settling on Applejack’s awful poker face. He blinked in understanding, his mouth plopping open. “Ah… Maybe I shouldn't have brought it up…”

“I don’t see anything.” Velvet leaned forward, a little worried pout on her muzzle. Her magic fussed with Twilight’s mane to try and spot the bites, ignoring her daughter’s squeaks of embarrassed protest. “Where are they?”

“Well, they are on her nape.” Night Light cleared his throat. “You know… in that one spot… when we... ahem…” he put his muzzle to Velvet’s ear, but his whisper carried just high enough for Cadance to catch a couple of words: love nibbles. Apparently Twilight heard as well, her head falling in her hooves to hide her crimson cheeks.

“Ooooh…” Velvet’s eyes widened, and her worried expression was replaced with a mischievous grin. “Oh my…”

“WHAT BITES!” Shining erupted, completely out of the loop. The stallion was so lost in his brotherly outrage that he didn’t notice Twilight and Night Light’s discomfort, nor Velvet’s almost saucy smile. “Tell me where the bites are!”

“Wow, calm down you guys, food’s coming, I didn’t think you were all so hungry.” Spike said from the door. He pushed a food cart inside, his little clawed feet clicking against the crystal floor. The two story trolley was laden with covered plates, and judging from the scents escaping from under the lids they were in for a delicious feast.

Shining was still angry and confused, so Cadance put a calming hoof on his shoulder. “I’ll explain later honey.” She made him sit down, her husband now looking completely baffled after seeing her little smile. “The important thing is: Twilight wasn’t hurt.”

He slowly calmed down, a rosy tint appearing on his cheeks as he realized he had overreacted. Still, he kept frowning. “Not all abuse is physical.” Shining whispered at her, unheard by the rest of the family, all too busy complimenting Spike. “And Chrysalis likes playing with other ponies’ minds. I should know.”

Cadance’s brow furrowed at the reminder, but she put on a happy face when Spike began to unveil the platters he had brought: a golden gratin dish, various steamed vegetable assortments, a mouthwatering casserole of mushrooms and carrots… it all smelled heavenly.

Conversation was a lot more lively while Spike placed the dishes on the table, Night Light and Velvet focusing on Twilight’s friends. They talked about Rarity’s work, Applejack’s farm, and generally avoided any touchy subjects, probably for Spike’s sake. Shining helped the little drake with the platters, a smile fighting its way on his lips.

“Wow Spike, you’ve outdone yourself.” Shining whistled as he levitated a bowl of sauteed potatoes, the little round taters glazed with rich brown sauce. “You’ve always been a good chef, but where did you learn to cook all this? I know you didn’t learn it from Twilight.”

The alicorn puffed her reddened cheeks, her complete lack of cooking skills a usual ribbing target between the two siblings. “Hey, I know the theory, cooking is like alchemy in many ways…”

“Twilight, dearest, don’t take this the wrong way,” Rarity leaned forward with an impish grin, “but you are as bad as Sweetie Belle in the kitchen.”

“That’s a little mean Rares.” Applejack quirked an eyebrow. “Sweetie Belle can fry an egg at least.”

“Oh harr harr.” Twilight crossed her hooves, to the general hilarity of the Sparkle clan. Even Shining loosened up somewhat, his deep chuckle making Cadance smile in glee. Now this was what she was looking for: a happy lunch with her family and friends.

She leaned across Shining to tend to her foal, Flurry eyeing the food spread with hungry eyes. Cadance started to pour a small measure of steamed broccoli on Flurry’s plate, much to the foal’s displeasure. Flurry shot a death glare at her, the filly pointing towards the crusted cheese gratin. “Bleh!” She made a face at the offending vegetables, her little hooves banging on the table. “Bah bah!”

“Eat your greens, or you won’t get your bottle later.” Cadance said with maternal authority. She diced the broccoli into little chunks, then pushed the plate closer to the pouting foal.

“Hmmm, this is delicious!” Night Light made a big show of savoring the fried potatoes, giving Spike a proud smile. “Good job Spike!”

“Awww, it’s nothing.” Spike waved his claw around, his large fanged smile betraying how much he enjoyed the praise. “I mean, if you want a really good dish, you should try the mushroom stew.”

Cadance did just that, scooping a good helping of mushrooms and carrots, before having a taste. Flavor exploded on her tongue, and she didn’t have to pretend to love it for the dragon’s sake.

“Spike, I think your destiny is to become a professional chef!” She magically pinched Spike’s cheeks, making the drake squirm cutely. The rest of the family agreed with a chorus of pleased hums, all enjoying their delicious food.

“Glad you like it!” Spike puffed out his chest proudly. “Though, I did have help making all this.”

“Oh?” Shining mumbled with his mouth full. His mother shot him a glare, and he quickly gulped down his food. “Did Rarity help you? Applejack?”

“Nope.” Spike began to push the cart away, a big grin on his snout. “Chrysalis did! To be honest she kinda did most of the work, but I assisted her. She’s a super good cook, she taught me a bunch of recipes!” He closed the door behind him, somehow missing the awkward silence he was leaving behind. “I’ll be back in a bit!”

The seated ponies kept quiet, the Sparkle family staring at their plates, their food’s tastiness all but forgotten. All of them were now too busy wondering if they had just been poisoned.

So much for a peaceful family meal… Cadance thought sarcastically. I hope nothing else goes wrong today.

If there was one thing Flurry Heart hated more than anything, it was broccoli. She hated it more than the white place full of giant needles, she hated it more than the water room with the bubbles that stung her eyes, she just hated everything about the disgusting green gunk.

So, when she saw an opportunity to escape the plate of stinky veggies, she took it. The grown ups were all too busy talking, as grown ups often were, so none of them noticed as she slipped off her chair and scrambled to climb on the lower deck of the food cart. She hid behind the white sheet covering the trolley, and was wheeled away by her favorite —and only— cousin. She could always count on the small purple one!

She kept quiet while she was taken on a trip through the castle, watching the sparkly walls through a crack in the sheet. The castle wasn’t as shiny and pretty as her home, but it was still nice. Soon she couldn’t even smell the broccoli of doom anymore, and she brightened as the hellish odor was replaced by something far sweeter: sweets!

She gave a silent coo as the smell of cakes and pastries filled the air, the scent becoming stronger and stronger, her favorite purple cousin taking her straight towards the source! She loved her weird looking scaly friend!

They passed through a door, the delicious smells now surrounding the cart, the sounds of somepony humming making her ears twitch.

“They loved it!” Said the purple one.

“Hmmm, that’s nice.” A second voice buzzed in response. Flurry tilted her head, trying to recognize the voice. She swore she had heard it before, but her memory was fuzzy. She remembered being surrounded by green walls, floating around in warm goo, a flash of light, people cheering around her… She decided it was a good memory. “Now go on, join your family, you can come back for the desserts when you are all done.”

“But… aren’t you going to join us?” The purple one asked, his voice sounding a little sad. “You don’t have to stay in here alone, I bet you and Cadance and Shining could make up. Maybe they aren’t even mad at you for crashing their wedding anymore!”

A deep buzzing chuckle echoed around the food room, prompting Flurry to quietly giggle alongside. “You are a sweet child, but there are things you know nothing about, yet. Now, go on, scram. And remember, do not say anything about my... condition.”

“Fine.” The purple one huffed. “But at least try to talk to Night Light and Velvet, I bet they’ll like you.”

The mysterious buzzing voice hummed distractedly, and the purple one walked away. A door was opened and then closed, and Flurry suddenly realized she was alone with the stranger. A pang of fear made her tremble, a soft whine escaping her little lips. She stopped when the stranger sniffed the air, and she brightened up. The sniffing sounded like one of those fluffy-paws she loved to play with, the ones that barked and licked her face. Did that mean the stranger was a slobber-friend too?

Carefully, Flurry poked her head out of the white sheet, looking around the food room… and she found herself nose to nose with a giant black muzzle. Dark green eyes stared at her, while a mouth sporting way too many sharp teeth smiled hungrily at her. That was definitely not a slobber-friend. It looked more like one of those mean claw-monsters that didn’t like belly rubs, it had the same slitted eyes and the same purring. The giant claw-monster narrowed its eyes, its buzzing voice making Flurry’s little heart race in fear.

“Well, aren’t you a tasty looking morsel.”

Flurry was starting to regret not eating her broccoli.

Cadance poked at her mushrooms, her appetite somewhat lessened now that she knew who had cooked it. She caught Twilight looking at her with a hopeful gaze, and she forced herself to bring another forkful to her lips. She heard Shining Armor whispering urgently at her, panic clear in his voice, but she ignored him.

She took a bite, noting once again how tasty the dish was, and she swallowed. When she didn’t drop dead instantly, she looked up, and found Night Light and Velvet politely sampling their own dishes as well. Shining Armor grumbled while he pushed his potatoes around, as if afraid they would leap out of the plate to bite his nose.

“Oh for pony sake.” Twilight huffed. “Chrysalis didn’t do anything to your food, you can relax.”

“Yeah, not like she ever did poison anypony or anything…” Applejack grumbled sarcastically, only to wince when Rarity kicked her shins under the table.

“Ahem, speaking of Chrysalis.” Night Light began in a forced light tone. “Where is she?” He licked his lips, some of his nervousness shining through. “I was hoping we could introduce ourselves properly.”

“Yes, the last times we met were…” Velvet faltered, no doubt remembering her last meeting with Chrysalis: at the altar four weeks ago, when the changeling had deepthroated her daughter with a giant slimy green tongue. Not to mention the first time they had met was at the same altar, when Chrysalis had downed Celestia and taken over Canterlot. “... they weren’t the best first impressions.”

“She’s not coming.” Twilight shook her head. “I don’t think she understands the importance of a family reunion, changeling household structures are completely different than ours. Also, she didn’t want things to get awkward, considering…” She shot a look at Cadance and Shining, then quickly looked away. “... considering her past actions.”

“How kind of her.” Shining grunted. He noticed his sister wincing, and he exhaled deeply, putting down his fork. “Look Twily, I’m sorry, but you know this isn’t easy for us.”

“I know, I don’t blame you.” Twilight mumbled at her plate. “I’m not asking you all to be friends instantly, all I’m asking is for you to give her a chance.” She looked up, eyes full of hope. “That’s all I’ve asked, ever since I came up with this plan. There is good in her, I just want you to see it.”

“Well…” Cadance began, a little smile tugging at her lips when Twilight turned to her with a hopeful expression. “I guess if Celestia could give Discord a chance after all he’s done in the past…”

“Discord betrayed us to Tirek.” Shining reminded. “He almost doomed us all.”

“Starlight almost destroyed the world as well. Arguably she succeeded, multiple times.” Twilight countered. She obviously felt terrible for throwing her student under the carriage, but she soldiered on. “She did terrible things, things she regrets deeply, and now she’s one of my best friends.”

“Didn’t Chrysalis ask for her head?” Shining quirked an eyebrow.

“Uh… well…” Twilight fidgeted on her seat. “They’re working on it…”

“Twilight, I need you to answer honestly.” Cadance said gently. “There’s something that separates Starlight and Discord: Starlight wanted to be reformed, while Discord was tricked into it. His betrayal stems from his unwillingness to change.” She looked at Twilight in the eyes, searching for the truth. “Does Chrysalis want to be reformed?”

Twilight exhaled. “No, she doesn’t.”

“Then,” Cadance frowned, trying to understand, “why are you so confident you can turn her away from evil?”

“... Because I want to believe in her.” Twilight mumbled. Before anypony could interrupt, she kept talking. “Whenever it’s just the two of us, she changes completely. She’s less aggressive, she becomes kinder, she doesn’t try to keep her image of a heartless monster. She does little things for me, gestures that prove she cares. Like turning the pages for me when we’re reading together, tucking me in at night when I fall asleep in my study, waking me up with a kiss in the morning… and the way she looks at me when she thinks no one’s watching… I don’t think she even realizes she’s doing all this, and I know it isn’t an act.”

Cadance felt her heart racing in her chest, a glorious feeling of glimmering hope obliterating her remaining fears. This was it. Proof that Chrysalis had a heart, and proof Twilight had somehow managed to steal a piece of it, if not the whole thing. She shot a sideways look at Shining Armor, and wasn’t surprised to find a very dubious frown on his brow. He seemed to holding back a few choice comments, probably to avoid ruining the warm family moment.

“So… are you happy?” Velvet asked, her eyes twinkling. Cadance could see the Sparkle parents holding hooves under the table, their wildest hopes becoming reality.

“I think so.” Twilight smiled shyly. “It was rough in the beginning, there’s still times I have to remind her of our boundaries, but she’s become a part of my life I don’t want to lose.” She avoided her parents eyes by taking another bite out of her tasty dish, blushing lightly.

“That’s wonderful to hear.” Night Light said, a genuine smile on his lips. “So, can we expect to have more grandfoals soon?”

Twilight sputtered, half chewed veggies flying from her mouth. Rarity dodged out of the way, using Applejack as a shield; the earth pony didn’t even flinch as she was pelted by soggy green bits. “*Cough* DAD! *cough*”

The Sparkle family laughed at Twilight’s embarrassment, but Cadance only joined with a distracted chuckle. When she had heard the mention of foals, Twilight’s hooves had shot to her stomach, where they cradled her belly… almost as if… No, that couldn’t be true.

“I’m kidding!” Night Light held his hooves up, grinning wide. He levitated a napkin to his wheezing daughter, and another to Applejack. “But on that note, how is Spike handling things? He looked very… healthy.” His eyes found his wife’s. “Has Chrysalis been treating him well?”

“Oh yes!” Twilight assured with little hesitation. She seemed happy to steer the subject away from her love life. “She’s been spoiling him a little too much actually, I’m afraid he’s going to get fat from all the treats she keeps giving him; she turns into a mother hen around him.”

“That’s… surprising.” Shining quirked an eyebrow, doing nothing to mask his disbelief.

“It’s true.” Rarity nodded, coming to Twilight’s aid. “Chrysalis has been nothing but kind to the little dear… except maybe on the first day, when she was too busy trying to scare us out of our wits.”

“She treats the little ones well, Ah’ll give her that.” Aj admitted begrudgingly. “If she could be less of a nuisance with everypony else—”

“And Spike has become very attached to her.” Rarity interrupted. “They can be so very cute together!”

“Are you talking about me?” Spike called from the door, his ear-scales perked. “Who said I was cute?”

Cadance laughed alongside her family, her chest filling with warmth. This had gone better than she had dared hope. Not only were Spike and Twilight healthy and happy, but Chrysalis had proven her step-sister right: the changeling was capable of love. A creature that could love couldn’t be all bad, nothing that was capable of such a wonderful sentiment was irredeemable. Or at least that's what Cadance wanted to believe, deep in her heart. The fact that the changeling could be motherly to Spike only reinforced her conviction.

Smiling, she turned to her little filly, intent on showering the little foal with her own motherly affection… and her heart skipped a beat when she found the seat empty.

“Flurry?” She looked around, the seeds of worry blossoming in her chest. “Flurry Heart?”

Shining noticed his daughter’s absence, and was instantly on high alert. “Sweetie?” He called, before looking under the table. “Flurry where are you?”

“Did you see her leave?” Twilight asked, her horn glowing as she searched the room.

“No, she must have slipped away when the door was open.” Cadance sighed, her own horn flaring to life. “Don’t worry, I have a tracking spell on her.” She grumbled, and added under her breath, “I wish I didn't have to use it this often....”

She unleashed her spell, her magic quickly locating her precious little escapee. She rolled her eyes when the spell found its mark, she should have guessed Flurry would go there.

“Cadance?” Shining said next to her, his expression tense. “Where is she?”

“She’s in the kitchen.” She groaned. “I hope she didn’t break anything, or eat too many sweets...”

“Nah, don’t worry.” Spike spoke up from his seat. ‘“If she went to the kitchen too, she’s with Chrysalis. She’ll take care of Flurry..”

The little dragon went back to munching on his gems, apparently unaware of the effect his words had on Shining and Cadance. The royal couple exchanged panicked glances, and they jumped from their seats as one, ready to bolt for the door.

“Guys, calm down.” Twilight said soothingly, slowly coming closer. “No need to panic.”

“She has my foal.” Shining whispered, his horn fizzling above his wide eyes. “She has my little girl!”

“Flurry Heart is fine.” Twilight spoke like a farmer trying to calm a spooked cow. “Chrysalis would never hurt her, I swear to you.”

“Are you sure?” Cadance asked, looking straight into Twilight’s eyes. “Are you completely sure?”

“Yes.” Twilight nodded without hesitation. “I’ll go get Flurry, you guys stay here.”

“I’m coming with.” Shining snorted, pawing at the floor. “If she even touched a single hair on her mane I’ll—”

“You’ll do or say something dumb, and she’ll happily attack you in retaliation.” Twilight said matter-of-factly. “I know how she works by now, believe me. The worst thing you could do right now is give her an excuse to get back at you.”

“Get back at me?! She’s the one that—”

“I’ll go. Alone.”

All heads turned towards Cadance, most looking surprised, some afraid, and one fiercely against the idea.

“No.” Shining shook his head. “No way.”

“Shiny, it’s going to be okay.” She caressed his cheek with her wings, smiling softly. “Twilight says it’s safe, and I trust her.”

“Uuuh…” Twilight licked her lips. “I mean… I said Flurry was safe, but when it comes to you...”

“See? Even Twilight thinks this is a bad idea.” Shining snorted stubbornly. “You aren’t going alone.”

“Yes, I am.” Cadance smiled at him, trying to make him understand. “I need to do this Shiny. There are some things I need to talk to her about, mare to mare.”

“Darling, are you sure?” Rarity trotted closer, frowning slightly. “Chrysalis would never hurt a foal, but when it comes to ponies she doesn’t consider as part of her hive, she can be a little… ahm…” She twirled her hoof around. “... let’s just say she’s not the most agreeable creature to be around.”

Twilight nodded along. “She still has a long ways to go, even if she’s made progress.” Both she and Rarity turned to Applejack, hoping the farmer could help them convince Cadance.

“Princess, if ya go alone yer gonna regret it.” Applejack said simply. “She’ll bite yer head off then make ya apologize fer the mess.”

Velvet and Night Light blanched at the farmer’s words, the two of them seeming to reconsider their earlier cheer. Even Cadance was starting to second guess herself.

“Oh for the love of…” Rarity whirled around to glare at her friend. “Is the crude language really necessary?”

“Ah ain’t gonna sugar-coat the truth fer Chrysalis’ sake.” Aj huffed stubbornly.

“You know very well that you’re being unfair, she’s been nothing but considerate with you since we started dating.”

“Hmm, girls?” Twilight grinned sheepishly as she tried to slide between her bickering friends. “Now’s not the best time…”

“Ok fine, she’s been less of a burr in mah saddle these days, and she’s fun to argue with... But Ah’m still waiting fer her to apologize.”

“What are you talking about?” Rarity stomped her hoof down, exasperated.

“Ah’m talking ‘bout when that good fer nothing snake in the grass tricked me into confessing tah ya!”

“Are you STILL mad about that? It was the sweetest love declaration I’ve ever heard!”

“Girls!”

“It was a darn dirty trick is what it was, all so I would join yer dang herd!”

“Oh please, don’t pretend you don’t love going out with the three of us.”

“Ah’d love it a lot more if Chrysalis wasn’t trying tah buck me like an apple tree all the time!”

“GIRLS!”

Applejack and Rarity froze, their noses pressed together, their habitual bickering coming to a screeching halt. They blinked, and slowly, oh so slowly, turned to watch the Sparkle family, as if only now remembering they weren’t alone. Night Light’s gaze ping-ponged between his daughter and her friends, his eyes wide. Velvet was smiling like a filly who had just received the best gift ever. Spike kept munching on a ruby, completely confused... and Shining seemed on the verge of having an aneurysm.

“Hmmm…” Cadance cleared her throat awkwardly. “I can see you all have a lot to talk about, so I’ll just… yeah.”

She silently shuffled to the door, ducking her head to avoid the cloud of awkwardness that had petrified her family. She shot one last look at Twilight as she stepped out of the room, and found her step-sister looking back with an imploring expression. Cadance gave a supportive smile, mouthed “Good luck”, and she made her escape before Shining could recover enough to stop her.

She hurried down the corridor, her ears folded to prepare for the inevitable outburst. She was going around the first turn when Shining Armor’s brain finally rebooted, and his reaction was just as explosive as Cadance had anticipated.

“YOU STARTED A HERD?”

She broke into a gallop, running away from the storm of brotherly outrage echoing behind her. Cadance felt a little bad about leaving Twilight in that unpleasant situation, but it was a perfect getaway opportunity. And she had to admit it was an hilarious way to come out to your family; the look on Shining’s face… priceless.

Still, she quickly sobered up as she came upon the kitchen door, her tracking spell telling her in no uncertain terms that Flurry was inside.

“Ok, you can do this.” Cadance whispered to herself. “Twilight said it was safe, Flurry is fine, everything's going to be fine. We’ll just talk… and... sort things out.”

She took a deep breath, put a hoof on the doorknob, and she valiantly pushed the door open. She stepped inside with her head held high, ready to face her nightmare in the flesh. She steeled herself for any eventuality… but still found herself dumbstruck by what she found.

“By the swarm, you are such a messy eater.” Chrysalis growled. The changeling’s back was turned to the door, a nappy held in her green magic while she gently wiped Flurry Heart’s muzzle. The giggling filly was seated on a high-chair, her happy chirps echoing around the kitchen. “Useless foal…” Chrysalis tsked in annoyance while she levitated a small spoonful of baby food, and gently fed the eager filly. “I’ve seen freshly hatched grubs less clumsy than you.”

Cadance kept quiet and just watched the scene unfold. Chrysalis was so focused on taking care of Flurry, she had apparently not realized she had company. Utensils surrounded by green magic flew around the kitchen, a complex spell tending to the many cakes and sweets still being cooked. From where she stood Cadance couldn’t tell what Chrysalis was giving her daughter, but it looked like some sort of vegetable puree.

She didn’t know what she found the most surprising: the fact that Flurry was happily eating veggies, the cute pink-hearted apron hanging from Chrysalis’ neck, or the tenderness the changeling was showing for the child of her worst enemies. Cadance didn’t dare break the surreal moment, but Flurry’s eyes darted to her, and the little filly gave a loud chirp of happiness.

“Mah!” Flurry shouted, launching herself out of her chair. “Bahmuh!”

Chrysalis tensed for just a second, then she turned, slowly, her unnerving gaze locking with Cadance’s. The Love Princess nuzzled her filly without looking away from the Changeling Queen, both mares gauging the other. Cadance felt like a mouse that had just barged into a cat’s playpen, Chrysalis’ feline pupils only reinforcing the image. She briefly considered leaving through the open door, now that she had her daughter… but the memory of Twilight’s hopeful gaze made her reconsider.

With a resigned sigh, she closed the door, locking herself in with her nightmare.

“Chrysalis.” She gave a curt nod, keeping her tone polite.

The changeling tilted her head, observing her, but said nothing. Her predatory gaze roamed over Cadance’s body, lingering on very inappropriate spots, especially her rear. There was little doubt Chrysalis was checking her out, the changeling even licking her lips in a most unseemly display of appreciation. Cadance had never felt more naked in her life, and she couldn’t stop herself from shuddering when her nemesis eyed her plump teats, still heavy with maternal milk.

“Hmmm, such a shame Twilight refused to consider you as a potential mate.” Chrysalis purred, completely shameless in her vulgar interest. “You would have made a wonderful addition to our hive.” She chuckled darkly, smiling like a shark. “Perhaps as a breeder, or a pleasure mare… For my personal use, of course. Such a fine specimen shouldn’t be wasted on common workers and soldiers.”

“I would never let you touch me.” Cadance said through gritted teeth, anger bubbling to the surface despite her best efforts.

“You could become Rarity’s toy if you prefer.” Chrysalis leaned on the table, fluttering her eyelashes. “She does have a taste for making royalty scream under her whip… Though I already planned on gifting her another alicorn that needs to be broken in, I can’t spoil her too much.”

“Twilight is not yours to give away.” Cadance frowned, a little distracted by her mind filing away the information about Rarity’s kinks.

“I would never give Twilight to anyone, she’s mine.” Chrysalis’ eyes flared with green power as she said this, the intensity in her gaze making Cadance gulp. “No, I was thinking of another princess.” She grinned maliciously. “The one who keeps spying on us, the one who looks through our windows at night, watching us sleep or, ahem, engage in other bedroom activities.”

Cadance felt her cheeks heat up, her traitorous mind summoning the image of Luna peering through a window, watching Twilight, Rarity and Chrysalis in bed while they— She shook her head, chasing the naughty thoughts away.

“Such a foolish moon mare, no wonder she remains a maiden in her old age. All she has to do is ask, I’m sure Twilight would be delighted to have her.” Chrysalis sent Cadance a naughty wink. “That goes for you too: Twilight could never say no to you, she’ll change her mind if you ask nicely. Do bring your husband along when you do.” Chrysalis gave a playful growl, wiggling her eyebrows.

“You’re disgusting.” Cadance shook her head. Why had she ever thought she could make peace with this… this creature.

“Oh, come now.” Chrysalis buzzing voice dripped with malice. “It wouldn’t be the first time you shared your husband with me.”

Cadance tensed, her body going rigid with outrage. How dare she… How dare she bring that up so casually! She took a deep, calming breath through her nose, afraid of the words she would shout if she opened her mouth. But when she saw just how much fun the changeling was having, when she saw the big grin on Chrysalis’ muzzle, she couldn’t stop her boiling anger from spilling over.

“Yes, I’m sure Twilight would just love to be reminded of what you did to her brother.” Cadance put as much acid in her words as she could. “Did you know he’s never told her just how much you hurt him? I wonder what she would do if I told her; what do you think will happen if she has to choose between you and her brother?”

She had expected a reaction, but the way Chrysalis visibly flinched at her words still surprised her. The changeling quickly hid her trepidation, but Cadance had seen the flash of doubt in Chrysalis’ eyes. She felt a surge of vindictive pleasure, knowing she had a way to give back just a fraction of the hurt the changeling had caused her. She could hurt Chrysalis, she could make her squirm... but she rejected the ugly thoughts of revenge. She was here to make peace, not even the scores.

She opened her mouth to try and breach the gap, but Chrysalis was faster. The changeling chuckled humorlessly, her eyes narrowing, an evil smile stretching on her black muzzle.

“Oh, you sweet, naïve little princess. You think I was cruel before, when I only wanted to conquer Equestria?” Chrysalis purred, her voice dripping with malice and venom. “That was nothing, nothing compared to the atrocities I will bestow upon your Empire if you steal Twilight away from me.” Her lips drew back, revealing her fangs, her savage grin promising brutal retribution. “You’ll wish for death long before I grant you such mercy, you foolish filly.”

The horrifying promise hung in the air, bitter and cold, but Cadance didn’t let it intimidate her. She could tell Chrysalis’ threats were mostly empty, spoken out of anger and fear, but she didn’t dare gamble with Equestria’s safety. She felt like she was dancing on a knife’s edge, her response could spell disaster for the tenuous peace-treaty between ponies and changelings. She was seriously considering leaving as the best option when a soft whimper made her pause, cutting through the heavy silence.

She looked down to find Flurry Heart close to tears, the little filly clinging to her legs, obviously terrified. The poor girl could feel the tension in the room, even if she didn’t understand the angry words. Flurry shot a fearful look at Chrysalis, and when Cadance followed her daughter’s gaze, she caught an expression she thought she’d never see on the changeling’s muzzle: remorse. It was instantly gone, like the flickering of a candle, replaced by Chrysalis’ usual uncaring grin. But it was too late. Cadance had seen the genuine guilt shining in her eyes.

Two times now Chrysalis had shown cracks in her black armor, two times her mask as a heartless monster had been briefly lifted, revealing some of the changeling’s weaknesses. And Cadance wasn’t going to let this information go to waste.

“Shhh, it’s okay.” She cooed at her daughter, caressing her trembling head. “Mommy’s here.” She pulled Flurry into a loving hug, her little sobs lessening. “We didn’t mean to scare you, right Chrysalis?”

Both her and Flurry turned to the changeling, the little alicorn’s eyes shimmering with unshed tears. Chrysalis made a sour face, shot Cadance a look that held both disgust and begrudging respect, then she turned to Flurry. A soft smile appeared on her black lips, her buzzing voice surprisingly gentle when she spoke next.

“They were but words, little one.” Chrysalis used her magic to catch a stray tear on Flurry’s cheeks, the tender gesture making the foal perk up. Cadance smiled, glad to be making some progress, then the changeling added in the sweetest tone possible, “your whore of a mother is safe from my wrath. For now.”

Flurry babbled happily, comforted by Chrysalis’ soft tone of voice, completely unaware of the meaning of the words. Cadance bristled slightly, but she managed to keep her voice cordial. “You can’t help yourself, can you?” She asked, smiling a little too widely around her clenched teeth.

“I am cursed with unending wit and the sharpest of silver tongues, yes.” Chrysalis said sweetly. “Like you are cursed with those fatty flanks of yours.”

“Strange, you seemed to like them earlier, when you were drooling over them like some old pervert.” Cadance shot back pleasantly.

“I was merely surprised you could fit through the door, with those enormous hips of yours.” Chrysalis tittered behind a hoof.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure Twilight doesn’t mind yours are so small in comparison.” Cadance said with a amiable tone. “She obviously doesn’t care about appearance, considering she agreed to marry you.”

“Slut.”

“Brute.”

“Tramp.”

“Wretch.”

They shared a cheerful laugh, like two life-long friends sharing a cup of tea. Flurry giggled with them, now completely sure Chrysalis and her mother were only having fun together. The little filly fluttered away from the safety of Cadance’s grasp, only to land on her chair next to the changeling. She chirped excitedly, pointing towards the bowl of baby food Chrysalis had prepared for her.

“Hrm.” Chrysalis grumbled, taking hold of a spoon and resuming her gentle feeding. “You’re lucky you’re so cute.”

“Yes, she is.”

A somewhat pleasant silence stretched between them, the sounds of Flurry’s messy eating and the floating kitchen utensils clanking around keeping things lively. What had just happened couldn’t be called a friendly conversation, not in any definition of the word, but at least they had found a point of balance. It was a good step forward.

“Will you stop feeling so hopeful, you’ll make me hurl.” Chrysalis growled, dabbing Flurry’s mouth with her nappy.

Cadance said nothing, too focused on trying to see through Chrysalis’ veil of apathy. She could feel how guarded the changeling was with her emotions, if she could just get her to open up…

Chrysalis rolled her eyes at her, groaning out loud. “Oh please, stop trying to get into my head. Your empathic abilities are quaint, but you’ll get nothing out of me.”

“I don’t need magic to notice just how much you truly care about Twilight.” Cadance said quietly.

“You should refer to her as Queen Twilight, little princess. And yes, I might not hate her as much as I do most ponies.” Chrysalis said with a shrug.

“She spoke of a betrayal. Something you’ve done that hurt her… what did you…”

The air around the kitchen instantly dropped several degrees, and Cadance knew better than to finish her question. “I made an error in judgement.” Chrysalis said calmly, her tone glacial. “One I wish I could regret more than I already do, and one I fear I will gladly repeat. Next question.”

Cadance wanted to probe further, but something told her it would be dangerous to do so. “Fine. What about Rarity and Applejack?”

“Aaah, Rarity, such a fun partner in bed.” Chrysalis smiled hungrily, the atmosphere instantly warming up. “I would be somewhat chagrined if she were to leave my hive, that much I’ll say. As for Applejack, I have yet to lay with her, so I do not know how valuable she is.”

“Not everything revolves around sex.”

“Says the mare who has only bedded one stallion in her life.” Chrysalis snarked. “Spend one night in our bed, and you will never return to your husband’s side. Or perhaps I should just go ask him instead. Does he ever call out my name in the act?” She gave Flurry an eskimo kiss, the filly giggling around her mouth-full of baby food. “Perhaps he was even thinking of me when he sired your foal, hmmm?”

Cadance sighed, refusing to raise to the bait. “You can keep the villain act all you want, but the fact you can feel love means you aren’t as bad as you pretend. You just need to embrace your better side, and I’m willing to help y—”

“Urgh, you ponies are so naïve, it makes me sick.” Chrysalis put the spoon down, and gently levitated Flurry to her shoulder. “A nation of children, just waiting for a worthy ruler.” She carefully tapped Flurry’s back, until the filly gave a loud burp. “Embrace my better side… don’t make me laugh.” She snorted in derision while she tussled Flurry’s mane, the little filly cooing at the attention. “I am pure unfiltered evil.”

“Yes… I can see that.” Cadance couldn’t hold back a little smile.

“Now, enough about me.” Chrysalis put Flurry on the floor, the little filly scampering around the kitchen excitedly. “I imagine you didn't make the effort to come to me, alone, just to have nice chat.”

If that’s what she considers a nice chat… Cadance thought, before speaking carefully. “No. I wanted… I needed to ask you some things… about the wedding. My wedding.”

“Ah, yes, that debacle.” Chrysalis leaned on the table, her head resting on her folded hooves. “Fine, ask away. Do you want to know how I infiltrated your chain of command? Or how I managed to drag you down to those caves without being noticed? How about how I turned everypony against Twilight just to get the Elements out of the way…”

“No.” Cadance shook her head. “First, there’s something I don’t understand, something that kept me up at night…”

“What?” Chrysalis sounded bored now. “I still have a few cakes in the oven, if you could hurry this up it would be—”

“Why didn’t you kill me.”

The question seemed to take Chrysalis aback, the changeling slowly straightening up. “Excuse me?”

“Why didn’t you kill me, when you replaced me.” Cadance went on, her brow furrowed. “You could have easily hid my body, but instead you just left me in that crystal prison… why?”

Chrysalis blinked slowly. “Why would I kill you?”

“Because you could?” Cadance spoke in an even tone. “I’ve wondered so long about this. I’ve asked myself so many times: why you would keep me alive, why you would not kill me, what use could I have been to you… and I’ve been having nightmares about the possible answers.”

“Ah, I see.” Chrysalis’s gaze softened. “You are scared of what could have been.” When Cadance nodded, Chrysalis sighed tiredly. “You ponies can be so melodramatic. What do you think I was going to do? Torture you? Rape you? Forcefully drain your love until you were naught but a dried husk?”

“Maybe?” Cadance squeaked, rubbing her leg.

“Don’t be silly.” Chrysalis grunted, seeming offended by the very idea. “I would never do that.”

“Oh, thank Celestia…”

“I’ll have you know I take good care of my livestock. Your fate would have been the same as any other pony: you would have been used as cattle, farm animals to be bred and milked of love, living a long and happy life of servitude.” Chrysalis said casually, smiling at her own benevolence.

“C-cattle?” Cadance said in a little voice.

“Plus, torture tends to destroy a pony’s mind, meaning we cannot harvest love out of them; it’s a waste of resources. As for raping you, know that I dislike the taste of fear and pain, particularly during mating. I would have waited until you were tamed and willing, only then would I have made use of you.”

Candace gulped thickly, and she took an unconscious step back, towards the door.

“Oh don’t worry dear, it’s likely I would have kept you and Shining as a breeding pair, you wouldn’t have been separated from him: I’m not a complete monster.” Chrysalis chuckled, either missing or not caring about Cadance’s horrified expression. “In times of peace I can expand my egg-sack until I am nothing more than an egg-laying machine, and I only need a few hardy studs to keep me going. It’s a lot more efficient than using pony mothers; managing broodmares can be such a hassle.”

“Broodmares…” Cadance felt her head spinning. “But I thought you were the only one that could reproduce…”

“Oh, haven’t Celestia and Luna told you about my breeding habits? I should have guessed, so prudish.” Chrysalis snorted. “Well, if you ever do ask Twilight’s permission to spend a night in our bed, you’ll understand.”

“I’m not sure I want to understand.”

“It’s your loss.”

Cadance frowned, holding back a snappy response. Chrysalis obviously wanted her to get mad, and she didn’t want to play into the changeling’s hoof. Yet, there was one piece of information that gave her pause, one thought that came to her mind, almost too horrifying to consider.

“You said you needed stallions to lay eggs?” Cadance asked, her voice becoming a little squeaky with fear. “Do you mean pony stallions? As in… Shining?”

Chrysalis’ smile grew to worrying proportions. “What’s the matter, are you afraid a few hundred changelings could appear in the Crystal Empire looking for their sire?”

Cadance said nothing, too terrified to speak.

“How awful would that be,” Chrysalis purred, “for Shining Armor’s first born to be mine, and not yours.” She tilted her head, her tongue flicking past her lips like a snake’s. “Does it make you sad, does it make you angry?”

Cadance narrowed her eyes, recognizing the evil glimmer in the changeling’s eyes. “You’re bluffing.”

“Yes, I am.” Chrysalis shrugged. “I wasn’t nesting at the time, and I didn’t think to store some of his seed for later; I was supposed to have free access to him after I won.” She looked at the ceiling, seeming lost in a good memory. “He was a capable lover, I have to admit I regret my time with him. I would be forever grateful if you loaned him to me for a few nights.”

“Listen to yourself, you talk about him like he’s nothing but a toy.” Cadance sighed, more disturbed than angry. “He still has nightmares about it, you know. The way you brainwashed him, how you used him…”

“You think I forced myself on him, don’t you.” Chrysalis leaned on one hoof, looking almost bored.

Cadance frowned. “He has no memory of what you did to him after you took control… so… yes.”

Chrysalis exhaled, seeming exasperated. “Cadance, why would I waste my time rutting a mind-controlled stallion. I didn’t need his seed, I was busy planning for a war, and it gained me nothing. I would as well lay with a puppet.”

“But, you were feeding on his love...”

“I fed on him while he still thought I was you, before he found me out, you silly little filly.” Chrysalis grunted impatiently. “If changelings could feed by force, if we could consume love from mind-controlled ponies, do you really think we would bother with disguises? Love drained by force is tainted, it is bitter and cannot be converted to nectar, and it leaves the prey broken and useless.”

“So… you didn’t…”

“I didn’t rape him, no.” Chrysalis said crudely. She rolled her eyes as Cadance recoiled from the term. “Oh spare me, that was exactly what you were thinking.”

“You still pretended to be me.” Cadance said through her disgust, a little green in the face. “You went to be with him, wearing my face… you tricked him into making love to you.”

“Yes, ‘making love’ is one way to put it. Though I think ‘rutting like wild animals’ is a lot more accurate. He surprised me on the first night, I didn’t think you two could be so…” Chrysalis wiggled her eyebrows. “Passionate.”

“Don’t you dare…”

“I mean, the biting I expected, but the mane pulling and spanking? Not to mention what he did after the first round. I thought his aim was off at first but then he just rammed himself inside my…”

“Alright stop!”

Chrysalis cackled with glee, obviously enjoying Cadance’s flustered look. “You are almost as easy to ryle up as Twilight.”

“And you are almost as bad as I imagined.” Cadance grumbled.

“Almost? I’m offended.”

Cadance took a deep breath, willing herself to remain calm. “Okay, I still can’t forgive you for what you did to Shining…”

“I wasn’t looking for your forgiveness, you know—”

“... but at least you didn’t… ahem…

“Oh just say the word already.”

“Still, I have one last question.” Cadance gave Chrysalis a stern glance, her expression serious. “I want to know why you attacked us.”

“This again?” Chrysalis growled. “Twilight asked me the same thing, so I’ll give the same answer: do you ask a fox why he hunts for rabbits?”

“Not good enough.” Cadance shook her head. “I want to know, why, why do you hate ponies so much.”

Chrysalis paused, looking almost surprised by the question. “Why do I hate ponies...” She seemed to ask herself more than Cadance. “Hmmm, it’s been so long, I don’t even care for the reason anymore… I’m not sure I even hate you by this point, so much as despise your weaknesses.”

“So long?” Cadance took a step closer, hoping to find some answers at last. “So long since what? I just want to understand, please tell me.”

Chrysalis seemed amused by Cadance’s interest. “Fine, time for a little story then.” She gestured towards a seat at the kitchen table across from her, one that Cadance reluctantly took. “Now, where to begin…” She tapped her chin, her eyes focused on something far away.

“How about the beginning?” Cadance proposed in a quiet voice. This was an unprecedented occasion to learn more about the changeling; she wanted to get as much information as she could!

Chrysalis gave her an amused grin, then she began her story.

“My first memory is of a field, just outside our hive. Me and my little sisters are playing together, laughing and cheering. We were nine princesses, most of them just freshly out of their larval stage, while I was already almost fully grown. Our mother was watching over us, I can still remember the kindness in her eyes… I wish I remembered her name as well. She was beautiful, her wings were like a dragonfly’s, her carapace a vibrant green with a light-blue shine. Nothing as garish as the eyesore Thorax and his fellow traitors turned into, but still beautiful to look at.

“Our land was covered in lush forests, untamed and free. We lived amongst the trees, guarding them from harm, and love was everywhere. Yes Cadance, love. It streamed from the ground, from the leaves, from the very air we breathed. We didn’t have to hunt, the land gave us sustenance, and in return we protected it. It was a paradise for our kind.

“I grew up in those woods, spending my days talking to the trees, and even learning to listen back. I learned many spells from them, magic linked to life and nature, some I still remember today; corrupted, terrible forms of those spells at least.

“I was the eldest of my sisters by a fair margin, and I was the first to find a king to be my mate, the first to start my own hive. Yes, we had kings back then, now stop interrupting me. On the day of my departure there were many tears, many hooves that tried to hold me back. The only way I could get them to let me go was to promise I would return, a promise I intended to keep, no matter what.

“Many moons later, I had my first child. The day he hatched I thought I would die from happiness, and it only got better when his brothers joined him. Soon my hive was thriving, my children growing strong, safe from harm under my care. Hmmm? Did I love them? Of course I did. You think yourself a mother, with only one foal? I was a mother to hundreds, and I loved each and everyone of them.

“For years we lived in peace, we grew larger and stronger, until we were the most powerful hive in the land. Every year our numbers doubled, and every year I reminded myself I still needed to fulfill my promise, and visit my childhood home. But there was so much to do, so many projects to supervise. I kept delaying, because I thought I had all the time in the world to return.

“I was wrong.

“First came the cold. A chilly breeze that disrupted the everlasting summer, and for the first time we saw the leaves wither and die. The streams of love became weak trickles, and we learned what hunger felt like. The trees became silent, never to speak again, leaving us alone in our time of need. Still, we survived, we stored as much food as we could, and we waited for the warmth to return.

“Then came the blizzard. I saw it on the horizon, a wall of white that came galloping towards us, and we barely had time to barricade the entrances before it was upon us. We held it back as long as we could, but the storm was too strong. The frozen winds tore through our hive, destroying everything in their wake. Soon everything was covered in ice: our supply of nectar, our communal pools, the dormitories…

“The nursery...

“...

“...

“On that day I learned the pain of a mother’s grief. I had never lost a child until then, the oldest of my brood were still in their prime, and I had been a vigilant protector. And I lost dozens at once. Eggs, larvae, younglings… The storm took them all. Only the oldest, only the strongest survived.

“We mourned for our dead, but we had no time for a proper burial; the blizzard only got worse. We huddled in the throne room together, my children shivering beneath me, my mate pressed by my side. The cold was so intense, it dug grooves into our bodies, it twisted and warped our carapaces. More died, and still the cold worsened.

“Then they arrived.

“At first we only heard the wailing in the wind, and I thought my children had returned to haunt me. The howling got stronger, it creeped closer, it pierced our bodies far deeper than the unforgiving cold. Then they invaded my hive, and I could do nothing but watch, helpless.

“I watched as they drank the very essence from the few remaining survivors, I watched as those ghostly monsters decimated my children. I watched as the life was extinguished from my mate’s frozen eyes, I watched him die in agony. And when they finally turned to me, I was thankful: I only wished to be released from the pain.

“But the windigos didn’t finish me off. To this day I do not understand why.

“I remained on the verge of death, in a state of semi-hibernation, my consciousness flickering on and off. I don’t know how long I stayed in that cavern, surrounded by the cadavers of my family, but I know for a fact the great winter lasted far longer than what your Hearth Warming Eve stories tell you. There are a lot of things omitted from pony history.

“When summer finally came back, I was slow to wake. By the time I rose, the thawing bodies of my family had started to rot; I’ll never forget the stench. I spent hours crying my heart out, calling out until I destroyed my voice, looking for any survivor. When I finally walked out, alone, I felt I was in a bad dream. I refused to believe what had happened.

“I was starving, and I couldn’t find any source of love, the land had been drained of it. When I came upon a stream and bent down to drink, if only to wash the taste of death from my mouth, I saw my reflection.

“I couldn’t recognize myself.

“Between the unnatural cold and the windigos’ magic, my body had been twisted into the crooked form you see before you. If I could still feel anything, I would have been devastated by the loss of my old shell; I was told I was gorgeous before, now I was monstrous. I merely watched, empty of any emotions, and I walked on.

“I did what any lost filly does: I returned home. I traveled to my old hive, fulfilling the promise I had made so many years before. I hoped my mother had fared better against the winter demons, since she was so wise and powerful… She had not. I didn’t remain in that tomb very long, just enough to find each and every one of my sisters. Maybe one of them had escaped, that’s what I told myself as I dug through the corpses piled up in the throne room. I counted nine queen skulls, and knew I was the last of my line.

“I roamed the land for months, maybe years. I was but a mere shadow of my former self, but I still kept looking for a surviving hive, clinging on to hope. There were none. I was truly the last. The last immortal queen of an extinct species.

“I decided a lonely eternity wasn’t worth living, and went to the only place I could still return to: my hive. On the way I thought of the best way I could end it all, I was so empty of feelings I considered my death as calmly as one schedules their day. All I wanted was to sleep forever, surrounded by my children, with my mate by my side.

“But even this simple wish was stolen from me.

“When I arrived near my hive, I heard the telltale sounds of activity: voices, hammering, machinery. For one glorious moment I dared to hope, I dared to imagine that by some miracle some of my children had survived, despite the thorough searching I did before leaving. I rushed to the entrance, emotions bubbling inside my chest for the first time since the great winter. My heart came alive on that day. It only hurt all the more when it was ripped out of my chest.”

“Stop… please stop…”

“Ponies. Ponies had found my hive, drawn to the gems buried deep underground. They were using my home as a mining base, laying steel-tracks along the corridors leading to my nursery. The most sacred part of my hive, violated for what? Shiny rocks? Precious metals? I looked upon my life’s work, and I wept. I wept as I roamed the destroyed halls of my home, I wept as I remembered my life between these walls… But the tears stopped when I came upon the worst.

“The hatchery, the room where my children were laid, where they were born... they had turned it into a dumping-ground. The chamber was full of rocks, earth, broken tools... and the remains of my family. A mountain of hollowed exoskeletons, thrown away with the rest of the trash. I was still in shock when ponies surrounded me. They tried to talk to me, their voice full of kindness and guilt, they tried to reason with me... But I wasn’t in a chatting mood; can you believe one of them was using my mate’s skull as a helmet?”

“Enough… I beg you...”

“I have very little recollection of what happened next. All I remember is the overwhelming hatred I felt, and the warm pony blood I tasted. For so long I had been empty, for so long I had been starving, I savoured it all like the sweetest of nectars. It was the first time I took a life, and by the end of the hour I had learned to enjoy the symphony of screams, torn limbs and shattered bones.

“I kept one alive, just long enough for him to tell me what they were, and what they were doing in my land. Equestria he called it. I hated the name instantly. He told me of the three tribes, he told me about the windigos, he told me how you ponies brought winter to our land, how you destroyed it with your petty squabbling, only to claim it as yours afterwards. Then I tore his throat open and he could tell me no more.

“I had come to my old hive to die. And in a way, I did. The old Chrysalis was gone, and a stronger, more powerful being was born. I was the last of my race, but also the first of a new breed: the first changeling. You asked me why I hated ponies Cadance? I don’t. I’m thankful. Thankful that you destroyed my heart, so I would never feel grief again, so I would never feel anything ever aga—”

“STOP!”

Cadance pressed her hooves to her ears, tears running down her cheeks. She collapsed on the table, quietly sobbing. She felt a pair of little hooves tugging at her leg, Flurry’s worried chirp making her cry all the harder.

“Are you sure you want me to stop?” Chrysalis asked, sounding amused. “I still have to tell you how I found out I could feed on ponies’ love. Oooh, and also about the time I found I could breed with them; now that was a fun couple of years of experimentation!”

Cadance shook her head, too emotionally exhausted to say anything. She cried for the race ponies had unwittingly extinguished, she cried for the unfairness of it all, and she cried for Chrysalis’ sake, since the changeling had obviously lost the ability to do it herself a long time ago.

“Are you mourning?” Chrysalis laughed. “Cadance, my old hive has been gone for well over a millenia, your tears cannot reach them.”

Cadance shook her head helplessly, unable to speak through her sobbing.

“Ah, for me then? That’s nice dear, but I cannot feed on sadness, much too bitter for my taste.”

Cadance kept crying in her hooves, her weeping soon joined by the confused whimpering of her foal. She felt awful for letting Flurry Heart become so distraught, but she was just too lost in grief to comfort her foal.

“... Alright enough, your blubbering is becoming tiresome.” Chrysalis grunted. She waited for Cadance to say something, but when the alicorn didn’t react, she sighed heavily. “For grub sake…”

Cadance’s ears twitched as she heard Chrysalis’ hoofsteps go around the table. Flurry’s sobs slowly quieted as the changeling gently consoled her. Chrysalis spoke softly to the filly, reassuring her with the care and tenderness of a mother… and only now did Cadance realize how right she was in that comparison. Chrysalis had once felt a mother’s love for her many, many children, and she had suffered greatly for it. No wonder she didn’t allow herself to feel that way anymore… at least not with her own offspring.

“I’m about to do something neither you or I are prepared for, but please do not stab me in the eye with that blunt horn of yours.”

What is she… Cadance tensed as a long crooked leg draped itself across her back, the changeling chitin surprisingly warm to the touch. Shocked out of her funk, she slowly sat up, gaping at the mare who was awkwardly hugging her. It was clear Chrysalis didn’t want to do it, but still she embraced Cadance with one hoof, the other holding a snot-nosed Flurry Heart. The filly seemed exhausted and confused, her eyes fluttering drowsily.

“W… what are you doing?” Cadance stammered.

“I would have thought it was evident.” Chrysalis snarked. “I am offering you a hug. Isn’t that the miracle remedy for you ponies? Now cease your useless wailing before I lose patience.”

Cadance blinked heavily, a new kind of wetness filling her eyes, much to Chrysalis’ displeasure. She leaned into the hug, her tears flowing anew. “Thank you.”

“No, don’t you dare… aaand you did.” Chrysalis groaned as Cadance hugged her back. A full frontal hug too! The changeling clumsily patted her back, completely out of her element. “There there?”

After a long moment of silent hugging —during which Chrysalis audibly became more and more aggravated— Cadance finally took a step back, sniffling just a little. She had wanted to understand the changeling, and now she felt like she did, at least a little. Celestia had once said that no pony was ever born a villain, that the worst baddies had all suffered greatly to become so twisted… and it seemed Chrysalis was no exception.

Of course, Celestia had also added that a tragic past didn’t excuse a villain’s misdeeds, and it didn’t necessarily mean they were capable of turning away from a life of evil. It all depended on them, and them alone.

“Are you done.” Chrysalis deadpanned. She eyed her green mane with naked distaste, the wispy hair damp with Cadance’s tears. She used her pink apron to dry her hair, leaving her lower body exposed. “Please tell me you are done, if Twilight arrives and finds you in such a deplorable state, she is sure to blame me for it.”

Cadance would have pointed out that it was her fault, but she was too distracted by something else. Something huge, something mind blowing, something green and round. She stared with wide eyes at Chrysalis’ belly, only now noticing the swelling on the green part of her carapace, previously hidden by the table and apron. She floundered for a few moments, her brain trying very hard not to come to the obvious conclusion.

“You… you’re…” She pointed a shaky hoof at Chrysalis’ midsection, stammering in shock.

“What? Have you found another excuse to burst into tears?”

“No… your stomach… it’s…”

Chrysalis perked up, her wicked smile returning. “Oh? Didn’t Twilight tell you the good news?” She purred playfully. “You’re going to be an aunt.” The changeling turned, displaying her side. “Many, many times over.”

Cadance barely heard the changeling’s taunt, her eyes wide and mouth open. Not only was Chrysalis’ belly swollen like a mare a few months along her pregnancy, but it had also become transparent. And through the green translucent chitin, Cadance could see the dozens of little eggs filling the changeling’s belly. The eggs themselves were see-through, and she had a perfect view of the cute little larvae wiggling inside.

“H-how… What...”

Chrysalis chuckled at that. “Well you see, when a horny changeling queen and a nerdy alicorn princess love each other very, very much…”

“But… you’re both mares…” Cadance stammered, her head swimming in confusion. “Whose… whose foals are these?”

“The term is ‘brood’,” Chrysalis corrected, “and I have to confess I lied earlier, about not saving Shining’s seed.” She looked Cadance right in the eyes. “These are his.”

“WHAT!”

“Shhh, you’ll wake the little one!” Chrysalis shushed her gleefully, somehow still holding on to a now sleeping Flurry Heart as she shook with repressed laughter. “You can stop hyperventilating, these aren’t Shining’s. Why don’t you have a closer look, you’ll understand.”

Too confused to refuse, Cadance took a few careful steps closer, her head lowering towards Chrysalis’ belly. From up close she could see the broodlings squirming inside their shells, their little front hooves kicking cutely like normal foals did. She was starting to think the changeling was messing with her, when one of them opened its glowing eyes for a few seconds. Its glowing lavender eyes. Even through the green tint of his egg and Chrysalis belly, Cadance recognized that shade of purple.

“No… That’s impossible...”

“Keep looking.” Chrysalis chuckled.

Cadance was about to ask what the changeling meant, when another changeling foal blinked its eyes open, giving her a good look at his azure gaze. Cadance kept watching, spellbound, counting the instances of flashes of lavender and blue. It seemed that the lavender eyed changelings outnumbered the blue at least five to one, but she wasn’t any closer to understanding what it meant.

“What the hay...”

“Well, it’s a funny story really.” Chrysalis grinned. “Do you want me to tell you? It’s not as drab and depressing as my last tale, I swear.”

After just a moment of indecision, Cadance nodded, the emotional whiplash leaving her groggy and numb. Chrysalis grinned a worrying smile, and her horn flared to life. A floating green orb materialized between them, swirling colors appearing inside. The changeling gave Flurry Heart a glance, making sure the filly was fast asleep, then she began her tale.

“It all started about three weeks ago, after a visit to Applejack’s farm…”