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Life has been good. I know I have said that a lot lately, but I cannot overstate how wonderful it is to have finally settled back into the life I left behind after setting out for the Empty Plains. Monday came again. Then Tuesday. And then Wednesday followed by Thursday. And now it is Friday. My friends and I have gotten back into our old routines too. It was nothing short of grand when we finally sat down and had lunch together with the entire gang at the café. That moment... It really felt like the instant we were all truly back to where we were before war broke out.

Now that I have mostly adapted to the changes in the status quo brought on by Gladesong's birth, I have started to resume working at Sugarcube Corner again in full. At least on Mondays and Fridays. I still have Wednesdays off to allow me a full day to spend at home with my family and the newest addition to it. And Rarity even made room in her schedule to spend time with her goddaughter that day. Having her together with us is a constant reassuring reminder of the path I have set down in the art of romance. She was the first to become something more. I have always loved that mare. And in a different life, I surely would have walked down the aisle with her to become her husband.

How I wish that was still possible. Whenever Rarity is with Fluttershy and I, we truly feel like a family. I know I will never be able to legally do for Rarity what I did for Fluttershy. But whenever I hold her hoof... And my wedding ring touches her bracelet lined with shimmering opals... In those brief moments, it does not matter whether or not that would ever happen. Rarity is my wife in the same manner as Fluttershy. She is my mare and I am her man. Just as it is with Fluttershy. And Gladesong knows it too. She knows she has two mothers who love her equally. We are a family. A family I was so happy to return home to.

Fluttershy often brings Gladesong by Sugarcube Corner when I am working there just to say hello. And Mr. and Mrs. Cake are always tickled to see her. Pinkie Pie always sneaks my baby girl a cake ball when no one is looking and always manages to get a laugh out of Gladesong. She has even started trying to say Pinkie Pie's name, but still cannot quite figure out how to put names together.

Everything was going the way it should be on any good Friday. But during the last hour before closing, Rarity had arrived after closing her boutique a little early that day. And while she was browsing our wares, the door leading outside opened again to reveal a trio of customers coming in while I was minding the register. And Rarity was the first to greet them almost as if on reflex. Maybe that bell jingling from the door opening triggered her business protocol. "Hello, darlings! What can I... I mean what can we get you this evening?"

Smolder and Gallus entered with the former wearing a satchel that I knew for certain was carrying some comic books in it. I had a hunch that they had come to enjoy a sweet treat while also discussing and reading some of the latest Power Ponies and Project H issues. Gallus held up a hand in greeting and said, "Three milkshakes for here!"

"I'd like some diamond dust in mine! I want some crunch with this one." Smolder added while I took their orders down. The milkshakes at Sugarcube Corner are always made fresh to order. Although we always have to make any dragon special orders separately to prevent cross-contamination with gemstone particles. Smolder then looked backwards and asked, "What about you, Ocellus? Want some peanut butter crumbles?"

I lifted my head to look past the dragoness and griffon. And my heart sank in concern when I saw Ocellus shamble in. This was the sixth day in a row where Smolder and Gallus had taken her out on the town without a disguise in the hopes of Ponyville's people growing to accept her. And every evening, she would come home looking utterly downtrodden and in need of a nourishing embrace. But now...

The sun had not even set completely, yet Ocellus looked more defeated than ever before. How much negativity did she sense in the people she passed out there? I had convinced my employers at Sugarcube Corner that she was not a threat and a genuinely sweet little mare, so that place was a safe haven for her. But still... The shuffling dark Changeling came up to the counter and gazed up at me with such misery in those blank blue eyes. She could not even speak, but I could see a powerful and desperate need. I looked at Gallus and Smolder before asking, "Bad day?"

The two of them looked at each other with faces full of discomfort. Neither of them had a good answer. Smolder then looked at me and said glumly, "No one's tried to get to her, but...it's not like we can make them trust her."

Rarity, ever the generous soul, turned to the little mare beside her. "Darling, surely it wasn't...that bad out there? Come, let me treat you all. You've had a long day, yes? Milkshakes are on me!"

That decree got a smile out of Smolder and Gallus, but Ocellus did not even respond. She continued to silently plead with me, her big blank blue eyes never blinking once. I could see the beginnings of tears building at the edges. Knowing what she needed, I reached over the counter and took her into my arms. I looked towards the kitchen and said, "Pinkie, could you mind the register for a bit? I need to head upstairs."

"Oki doki loki! I'll be right out!" I heard my cheerful friend reply. She knew nothing about what had happened and neither of our customers objected to me stepping away for a little while. I carried Ocellus in my arms right upstairs into Pinkie Pie's living space. And then even higher up to the top of the building to lock the two of us in the bathroom in order to put as much distance between us and the ground floor as possible. Anything to give the two of us some peace and quiet.

Ocellus did not say a word during the entire trek upstairs. Only when I had locked the bathroom door behind me did I set my little friend down. I took a seat against the circular wall wrapping around the exterior and spoke softly with a hand on my knee. "Bad day, love bug?"

The tears came pouring down her cheeks. I could hear her voice catch in her throat. It was then that Ocellus finally spoke. And she did so loudly as she rushed into my embrace again. "Why do they hate me?!"

The poor little thing just bawled into my chest. Six days of putting herself in an uncomfortable situation while feeling nothing but varying degrees of animosity towards her. Ocellus was carrying the sins of her entire race...and it was not at all fair. Why could the people of Ponyville not see her for the lovely little lady she is in the way I can? Would I have nothing but disdain for Changelings too if I was there in Canterlot on that fateful day that still lingers in the memories of those unfortunate enough to have witnessed it?

The instant Ocellus started to become quieter, I took the opportunity to whisper loving words to her. Even if my own eyes were tempted to shed tears in the presence of her contagious sorrow. "But...I don't hate you, love bug. You know I just want you to be happy."

"Then...why isn't it making me feel better anymore...?" She whimpered pathetically in my embrace. I tucked her head under my chin and slid my hand over the smooth rounded contours of her head and over her equally smooth carapace. She asked again bitterly, "Why isn't this helping anymore...? Why isn't your love enough to...make me feel like I belong anymore?"

I was starting to feel genuinely helpless. I just wanted Ocellus to belong in Ponyville. The people of Ponyville had been kind to Gallus. They had been kind to Smolder. They had even been kind to me after the darkest secrets of humanity's history in Equestria were finally revealed to the public. Why could they not be welcoming and accepting of the loveliest little Changeling in the world?

"I cant do this anymore... They'll never accept me." Ocellus spoke through such bitter tears. I looked down at her as she lifted her head to gaze up at me. There was not just sorrow on her face anymore. I saw...anger. So much frustration. "It...always hurts when I feel them glaring at me... I...don't wanna do this anymore."

Before I could even object, a flash of green fire washed over the Changeling before me. When the flames faded as quickly as they came, only a beautiful little dragoness was tucked up against me. The bitterness was still there in her eyes, but she looked...calmer than before. Ocellus spoke to me with fresh tears of defeat flowing down her face, "This is me now... If they don't want a Changeling here, then...they can have a dragon instead."

It hurt to see my hopes for Ocellus not having to hide from Ponyville's people having been all for naught. Six days with no changes or improvements. I could not fathom the stress literally sensing the negativity being directed towards her was doing to her nerves. I began to lift a hand to her jaw and muttered, "Love bug... There has to be a better way to..."

"No... I can't keep doing this, James. It hurts too much..." Ocellus said weakly as she sniffled in shame. She then snuggled up against me as we held each other. "I'm sorry... I know you don't want me to hide, but...you don't know what it's like. It...hurts. This will be me from now on... Is that...OK with you? Will you really be fine with me...being your little dragoness instead?"

I sighed in resignation. It was a mistake to impose such a futile challenge onto that poor little lady. I just wanted her to be happy while being herself. Not to put unwarranted duress onto her. I rested my face against that head of soft hair between her two horns. "I'm sorry, love bug... I really wanted to believe they would welcome you... I guess the sins of your people run too deep."

"I wanted to believe it too. I really did. I was hoping it would get easier every day...but it didn't." Ocellus muttered almost in shame. She then pulled herself up against me even more tightly as she whispered, "I'm sorry I let you down..."

"No, Ocellus... I'm sorry for asking the impossible of you. If I knew this wouldn't work, I wouldn't have asked you to do this." I muttered while feeling genuinely ashamed of myself. I just wanted to help her. I did not expect there to be no real results...or for it to hurt so much. In my hopes of helping her, I had only caused her pain. And I spoke the kindest words I could at what I felt was the best time for it. "I'm sorry... I love you and I just want you to be happy. I didn't want this for you..."

A hand found its way to mine. And her fingers wrapped around it. I could feel it... Ocellus was feeding at the moment. Some comfort food to soothe her wounded heart and calm her nerves. I pulled my head back as she lifted hers. The tears were drying and the pain in her gaze had lessened. The beautiful false dragoness then whispered to me. "I love you too... It's not your fault. It's just...the way things are."

"Then the way things are just aren't fair..." I grumbled in renewed frustration. I was angry with myself for having inadvertently caused emotional harm to the precious little lady in my arms. "I'm sorry... I really am."

"James, I forgive you. We both hoped things would be different... I wish it was, but it's not..." Ocellus sighed harshly with her other hand gently caressing my face. Just trying to find some happiness in the moment. She finally found the will to show just the tiniest smile. "At least...I can still be happy like this. I...do like this form. And everyone else likes it too. Please...? Can I just...live as a dragon?"

Those words sounded like an admission of failure. But I did not want to put Ocellus through anymore duress when what we wanted was likely unattainable. I sighed in resignation and cradled her against me while letting out a defeated whisper. "Sure... If you're happy with this body, then so am I. But...you'll always be my little love bug, all right? Not my little dragon. My little love bug."

"You know I'll always be yours no matter what I look like. I love you." Ocellus replied with genuine sincerity. She then brought her lips to mine and... What was it about that kiss that was so comforting? Perhaps we both needed it more than we knew. Ocellus then gazed into my eyes with such profound gratitude. "Thank you for always loving me... You give me the most drive to keep going."

We continued to sit there in near silence while Ocellus slowly fed off of my love. We had nothing to say. We only wanted to bask in each other's presence. She had a long week and I did not want that to extend into the weekend. It was a shame that Ocellus would never be able to truly be herself in Ponyville. But as long as she was happy and felt safe, it was a necessary sacrifice to be in a form that was comfortable for her that was still entirely her own design.

Perhaps five minutes later, I felt the need to remind Ocellus of who was waiting downstairs. "You feeling OK now? Should we head back down?"

"Mmhm... I'll be all right..." Ocellus muttered as she started to loosen her embrace. But once our eyes met again, we could not resist. We shared one more tender kiss before the beautiful love bug before me whispered again. "I love you."

"Love you too, dear." I replied in earnest. My heart may still not be so sure of what it feels about her, but I do know that I love Ocellus. And it pains me greatly that I orchestrated a wasted week for her. I reluctantly rose to my feet and led Ocellus back downstairs and into the storefront of Sugarcube Corner. Rarity had not yet departed even though it looked like she had placed and received her order. She looked on in concern along with Smolder and Gallus when they noticed that Ocellus was no longer wearing her natural look. Pinkie Pie did not think twice about it though. She had seen Ocellus wearing that dragon disguise far more often than her natural form anyway. I then looked at our youngest guests and asked, "You made your orders yet?"

"Nah. Didn't feel right doing it until you two got back. You ready, Ocellus?" Gallus replied while all three stood at the counter. Gallus got a vanilla milkshake with honey-coated nuts sprinkled on it, Smolder went with strawberry with diamond dust mixed in, and Ocellus chose chocolate with butterscotch. The three of them took a seat at the table at the far end of the shop. The very same table I first sat down in on my first day in Equestria when I was having a rough time of my own. Smolder and Gallus were trying to be supportive and lure Ocellus out of her funk, but the poor disheartened love bug would not be so easily cheered up. She was quiet and hardly conversed even as Smolder pulled out a few comic books from her satchel.

Rarity stepped up beside the counter while I returned to my post there. Pinkie Pie went into the kitchen to start preparing the orders we had received. I think Rarity ordered a set of chocolate drops to go. Although my beautiful beloved then asked, "The poor darling has been going out with her natural look, hasn't she?"

"Yeah, that was the plan. Turned out to be a bad idea in the end. Even Ponyville knows enough about Changelings to not give them the benefit of the doubt. I can only imagine what she's been feeling and hearing all week..." I replied while leaning over the counter to get a better look at our three guests. Gallus and Smolder had perked up, but Ocellus was doing much more listening than talking. One thing that caught my attention about Gallus was the comic book he was holding. The title... Albatross? I think I heard about that griffon superhero series... Maybe I should look that up sometime. Regardless, I slumped on the counter a bit more as I sighed harshly. "It was my idea... I shouldn't have pressured her. She was already happy enough with that dragon body."

Rarity too sighed in sympathy. She understood the beauty of being true to oneself without subterfuge. "It's a shame. I understand what a fine young lady she is, but the rest of Equestria doesn't. If only there was a way for Changelings to be themselves around everyone else without having to hide that they are Changelings. If only...they could...be...more beautiful...?"

I was quick to notice the fluctuating inflections in Rarity's voice. She tapped her hoof against her chin while narrowing her eyes into a more analytical stare towards Ocellus. I raised an eyebrow in interest. What was going through my beloved's mind? Just as I was about to ask, Rarity suddenly gasped with her eyes lighting up in inspiration. "Ah! Ideeeaaaa!"

"Um...yeah? What idea?" I asked with some confusion.

Rarity promptly turned to me while avoiding drawing the attention of our three guests. "I just had an epiphany, darling! As soon as you can, bring Ocellus by my place. I think I know exactly how to fix this little problem of hers!"

I knew by then that when Rarity gets that look in her eyes, she has just reached a brilliant breakthrough. I took her word for it and said, "OK then, sure. I'll swing by as soon as my shift ends. They don't look like they're going anywhere anytime soon as is."

"Then I shall see you soon. Don't delay, darling!" Rarity then placed a quick kiss on my cheek before trotting out the door with a jolly spring in her step. I was puzzled over what Rarity could possibly do to help the situation. Her forte is the art of fashion. I doubt coming up with a new ensemble for Ocellus to wear would help in winning over the locals.

I kept an eye on the clock. Less than an hour to go before my shift ended. And I kept an eye on our three guests as they hung out in the corner with their comic books. Ocellus looked gradually more and more relaxed as the minutes went by and started to partake in talking about her favorite heroes. It sounded like she had developed a liking for Radiance of the Power Ponies. Apparently her adaptable form creation powers resonated with Ocellus' own ability to shapeshift. Smolder voiced appreciation for Saddle Rager. I assume that is because of Smolder's own duality of dragon toughness combined with a delicate feminine side to her. Gallus sounded like he preferred Zapp the most due to her being the aerial fighter of the team. I even found myself smirking as I thought back to the time I actually met the team while masquerading as Hunter. They probably would love them just as much in person.

Pinkie Pie eventually came up behind me during a lapse in customers. The last hour of a business day is always the quietest. My friend could see how I was watching and listening to our guests before she gave me a nudge. "Go ahead. I'll cover for you."

"Thanks, Pinkie." It was a very kind gesture. Allowing me to spend the rest of my shift being there for my youngest friends on a bad day? I doubt our bosses would mind either. The three of them had almost finished their milkshakes when I came over to them. "What's new, my fellow geeks?"

"Just discussing the newest issues. Check it out." Gallus retorted while holding up the newest issue of Project H. It looked like a sky-high clash between Hunter and Orion with swords drawn. Hunter being in the foreground with Orion rushing towards him with wing thrusters flaring up hard. "These four new guys added so much cool to the story. I totally dig Orion."

"And Aquarius! She's just so pretty! And it's a shame she really doesn't want to fight Hunter... It's sad. She's a tragic villain all around." Ocellus spoke up with a sudden surge of interest. She completely forgot about her bad day for the moment as she said, "I really hope she doesn't get destroyed in the end. Maybe she'll even find happiness with Hunter? I think he really wants to save her too..."

"What, you ship those two? Wasn't Hunter supposed to be dating Radiance?" Smolder asked while I flinched at a very wild memory. Trapped in Radiance's bedroom as Hunter and...about to see something that would have never gotten by the censors. Although Smolder then joined in gushing about her favorites of Alpha's team of enforcers. "But yeah, Corvus is just so cool and sleek! And Aries is always too goofy. I just can't take that guy seriously!"

"HERE COOOOMES THE FIIIIIRE!!!" I suddenly shouted with fist held high in my best impersonation of the villainous team's comic relief. While my three friends did flinch at this sudden outburst and Pinkie Pie even leaned over the counter to see what was up with me raising my voice, they soon all laughed at how spot-on my impersonation of that wacky pyromaniac was. Although I was quick to apologize and said, "Sorry, couldn't help myself. Aries is a hoot."

"Haha, it's cool! That sounded just like how I thought he would!" Gallus snickered as they all tried to reel in their laughter. Although the griffon boy tapped his finger on the cover of the Project H issue and added, "But seriously, Alpha sucks. Whenever that guy shows up, I wanna see the guy get wrecked."

Ocellus nodded and added, "Mmhm, a really awful villain. Although isn't it kinda fun to hate bad guys like that?"

"Of course it is! Bad guys like that exist just to get pummeled by the good guys!" Smolder spoke up before she noisily slurped up the last of her milkshake. I even heard her crunching the last bits of diamond powder in it before swallowing. Although she then said almost bitterly, "But yeah, I get what you guys mean. Corvus, Aries, Aquarius, and Orion? They're way too good for that jerk. They're not bad guys. They're just...on the wrong side. Pretty complex storytelling."

"Just between you and me?" I said quietly before kneeling beside the table and placing both hands upon it. I looked back and forth at my fellow geeks before whispering to them. "If I could make an educated guess, I'm expecting those four to turn on Alpha eventually and become Hunter's battle buddies. Count on it."

Ocellus clasped her hands in front of her mouth. The way her eyes lit up... I should have seen what was coming next. "Yes! I can see that happening too! I'm betting Aquarius will be the first to join him! Love conquers all, right?"

"What's with you and robot love, Ocellus?" Smolder asked in bewilderment. Although I too could see Aquarius and Hunter developing a complicated relationship as enemies who really do not want to harm the other. Although Smolder then said her piece. "But if you ask me, I'm betting Orion will be the first to stab Alpha in the back. That guy's too good to not be the first to figure out he's fighting for the wrong side. What about you, Gallus? Who do you think will be the first turncoat?"

We all looked at the blue griffon boy while his tail swished about in contemplation. He held a fist under his beak before he said, "If you ask me... I'm banking on Corvus being the first to bail."

I leaned further on the table with one arm while raising an eyebrow. "Interesting choice, Gallus. What makes you think the most loyal of Alpha's goons will be the first to jump ship?"

"Easy. Corvus is all about duty, but you know what else means everything to him?" The griffon boy asked as he snapped his fingers and pointed at all of us. I had a hunch of what that other aspect of Corvus was, but I wanted to see if Ocellus and Smolder could figure it out. When they failed to provide a response, Gallus spoke the answer. "Honor. I'm betting Alpha's gonna tell Corvus to do something really messed up. Something he can't do. And then he'll have to choose between duty and honor. And he'll make the right choice."

"He is a man of honor... I hope you're right." I replied while having something neither of them did. I personally met the guy. Corvus is indeed cool and focused on his objectives, but he is also a warrior of honor. Truly, it was only a matter of time before his honor would clash with his orders. Corvus would have to make a choice eventually. I could only hope he would not disappoint us in the end. Although when I took a closer look at the cover of Project H's newest issue, I noticed something about Hunter's color scheme. "Huh... Jetstream Mode. This'll be good."

Smolder recognized that term and asked, "Hey, what's your take on that stuff? Those...modes?"

"Breaker Mode, Shadow Mode, Jetstream Mode, and Lancer Mode. They occur when specific Variable Weapon System combinations are made, resulting in Hunter's systems modifying themselves for specific tasks with specialized elemental weaponry." I explained fluently as I recalled my own experiences actually using said modes in combat.

Gallus took note of my almost intrinsic familiarity with how Hunter functions in the world of Project H. He then asked smugly, "Sounds like you know your comic book bots. In that case, which combinations activates which mode?"

I found myself smirking as I looked at Gallus while still holding the comic book in my hand. "Rising Fire and Rocket Tackle makes Breaker Mode. Rocket Tackle and Shadow Runner activates Shadow Mode. Storm Tornado and Sonic Slicer triggers Jetstream Mode. Frost Tower and Ray Arrow causes Lancer Mode."

"All correct! Nice, James!" Ocellus replied while I reveled in being a bit too familiar with that series and its trivia. Although Ocellus then started to tweak her longest lock of hair with a finger as her eyes narrowed in contemplation. "But come to think of it... Don't those modes look a little...I dunno... A little basic for advanced modes?"

"Yeah, but Hunter fights in totally wild new ways. Even if the only change is in his color scheme." Gallus replied while he gulped down the last of his drink.

It was Smolder who spoke up next with her arms crossed. "Yeah, I think Ocellus might be onto something there... I don't buy that these modes are the best Hunter's got. They look like...um...the first phase of something. Maybe they can advance to something bigger?"

I could not rule out the parallels between Hunter and my world's equivalent of him. A blue robotic hero I faced once in my dreams. A hero with a vast suite of mighty armor programs that drastically changed up his abilities. But these modes that Hunter has access to... They do not feel like that. Modified abilities while displaying color changes on the body... Instead of feeling like something that blue hero would use, it felt like a product of a different incarnation of that blue robot hero. One not of metal and robotics, but a product of cyberspace. When considering the fact that some of Hunter's more fantastical functions rely on magic instead of science... I suddenly had an epiphany of my own. "Maybe it's like Style Change transitioning into Double Soul."

The three of them just mumbled and chirped before looking at me in utter confusion. Not that I could blame them. I waved my hands at my three friends and said, "Uh...nothing. Nothing... But I get what you mean, Smolder. Yeah, I've got a hunch that these mode changes are the basis for a more advanced function that hasn't been introduced yet. I wonder if the writers will take it further someday..."

"Heh, so you do see where I'm coming from. Yeah, I bet things will just get crazier for the Project H series. Can't wait to see where things go from here." Smolder said with an amused smirk. She then stretched really good in her seat before looking around at us. "Man, it's just fun to talk about this stuff, you know? Just to see if we can predict what's gonna happen."

"Sure is." I retorted before noticing a copy of an issue from a series I was not at all familiar with. I then asked, "What's this one here, Gallus? Did you get this?"

The griffon boy was quick to hold up the odd one out. He was smiling brightly as he explained, "Yeah, it's Albatross. The only griffon superhero from EAC. You know about him?"

"Barely anything at all." I replied before taking the book in hand. Indeed, the cover depicted the unmistakable form of a griffon. Judging by what parts of his head was exposed, he appeared to possess the physical attributes of an eagle. I assumed he was a bald eagle type, but I quickly noticed his beak was black or a dark gray instead of that iconic yellow. Probably another type of oceanic eagle species. All the more fitting for a griffon carrying the namesake of the largest sea bird. His body was wrapped in a padded yet sleek suit with his wings covered in an armored yet flexible frame. Small rocket thrusters were affixed to the frame his body was locked in and appeared to possess missile launchers along the wings. A fast aerial fighter specializing in long range attacks. "Why does this make me think of angels and falcons? Judging by the name, does this guy prefer seaside locales?"

"Yep. This guy patrols the coast. Sometimes he ends up overlapping with Maretropolis. I think there were a few crossovers with the Power Ponies and this guy." Gallus explained while I scanned the cover some more. Perhaps I would bump into that guy at some point in the comic book world. At least if I ever found the courage to read the forbidden text on the back covers again. And if Gallus ever got sucked in there, there was no doubt in my mind that he would assume the role of Albatross.

I hung around with my three friends a while longer while just shooting the breeze over a topic we were all onboard with. I checked the clock on the wall frequently for the moment when my shift would end. The three of them had long since finished their drinks by the time 6 PM hit. That was when I dropped the surprise. "That's the end of my shift. Ocellus? You got time right now?"

The false dragoness looked at me with a glance of confusion. "Time? For what?"

I leaned over to her while our friends watched. "Rarity asked me to escort you to her place once you were done here. She said she has a surprise for you. Not sure what it is, but I think it's something important."

Ocellus did not appear to like the sound of having to make a detour away from going home. But our friends were quick to provide some reassurance with Gallus speaking first. "Hey, we'll go with you. Just in case, you know?"

Smolder then reached out and rested her hand on her friend's shoulder. "We got your back like always."

Their support did manage to make Ocellus smile just a little. But it was not enough. Ocellus then looked at me with a pleading gaze and said, "I'll only go if I can still look like this outside."

"Yeah, no problem. You do what you have to if it keeps you safe. Anyway, I'll take care of your glasses and be right back." I replied before gently stroking her pretty head between her horns. I then gathered up their three used glasses and took them back to the kitchen for a rinse. I clocked out, said my goodbyes to Pinkie Pie and our bosses, and headed back out to the storefront where my friends had packed up their stuff. "You all ready? We shouldn't keep a lady waiting."

Ocellus briefly hesitated when we stepped outside. She stayed close to me at all times while holding my hand. Smolder and Gallus bordered us just to set up some extra defenses. No one we passed appeared to be the wiser when we passed them. The three of them had done an effective job at keeping Ocellus' true identity concealed. They probably went out of their way to not say her name in public while she was not wearing a disguise.

We eventually passed through the town square before reaching the southeast edge of town without incident. Things were quiet around the Carousel Boutique. I was familiar enough with Rarity's business hours to know that we would not be finding any clients or assistants inside. And as soon as the bell jingled upon opening the front door, we were greeted by that lovely voice. "Darlings, I'll be right there!"

Rarity was somewhere in the back, but the main workroom of the Carousel Boutique was the same it had always been. Definitely the studio of a fashion designer with half-finished ensembles all over the place. Some hanging from clothes racks with others set upon equine mannequins. Smolder and Ocellus looked intrigued by their surroundings, but Gallus looked a bit uncomfortable. Perhaps that location felt too fancy for his tastes.

The beautiful proprietor of the Carousel Boutique soon came trotting into the main workroom and even had her stylish red glasses resting atop her muzzle. Her horn was coated by a billowing light blue magic aura that was also wrapped around a sheet of paper and a pencil. "Good to see you, darlings! And there's the mare of honor this evening!"

Ocellus happened to notice that Rarity was looking directly at her. She glanced at both sides to see us looking at her too. The disguised Changeling then meekly pointed to herself and asked, "Me?"

"Of course you, dear! I couldn't help but notice that you looked a bit down when we crossed paths in Sugarcube Corner. And I do seem to recall noticing that you've forgone your dragon form when out and about in Ponyville all week." Rarity explained as she drew near.

Being reminded of why she had been doing that took the wind out of the poor love bug's sails. Ocellus folded her wings forward and curled her tail around herself the best she could as if to hide underneath them. "I thought maybe Ponyville would grow to like me for what I am... They didn't. I really tried, but...I can feel it..."

Gallus then lifted an upturned hand and said, "Yeah, they kept giving her some ugly vibes. We were always with her, but that didn't help."

Smolder then abruptly changed the subject while giving Rarity a cockeyed stare. She leaned towards the gorgeous fashion designer and asked, "Sorry for changing the subject, but since when do you wear glasses?"

"Ohohoho, these aren't prescription eyewear, darling. They're reading glasses! I just wear these to make it easier to see the finer details when I'm in the zone, as it were." Rarity replied while using her levitation magic to remove them from her muzzle with a bit of flair before readjusting them again. She then looked down at the sheet of paper floating before her and said, "And the finer details I must see if I'm going to provide you with a solution. Ocellus, would you mind dressing down for a moment?"

The sheepish love bug only winced further in her self-embrace. Her two friends even looked at her in some confusion with Smolder speaking first. "She's not wearing anything to begin with."

Rarity got a hearty chuckle out of them missing the point. I had an idea of what she was asking of our friend and decided to enlighten them to it. "Rarity means she'd like for you to revert to your true form, Ocellus."

"Wha... But why?! Isn't this form good enough?!" Ocellus squeaked with her wings and tail wrapping around herself tightly in a fashion one might expect out of a bat.

"Of course, darling! I need something to work off of if I'm going to help you!" Rarity replied with some amusement at our friend's insistence in staying in her dragon form. And I started to see where this whole visit was going. A spark of intrigue filled my heart as my eyes widened. Rarity then asked again, "Ocellus, darling. Please. I insist that you show me your true self for just a moment. Please, dear? No one will see."

"I still don't get where you're going with this... But if you insist." Ocellus grumbled before she finally relented. A flash of green fire briefly rushed over her before revealing the dour form of her true Changeling self. Dark and unsightly, even Rarity flinched as the little Changeling mare looked away from her. "This is what you wanted to see, right...?"

"Ugh... So sorry if I winced, darling. Bad experiences and all that. I was there in Canterlot that day. But at least I know you weren't. Now then... Let me just..." Rarity replied before she began to circle the very timid Changeling. Ocellus still could not find the will to be comfortable in her true form now that Ponyville had made it clear that they could not trust her. Rarity then reached out to Ocellus and said softly, "Relax, darling. Just maintain a neutral pose. I need to be able to see all of you."

"Like...this?" Ocellus muttered as she stopped assuming such a cowering stance. She stood there on all four hooves in the most basic stance possible. Rarity resumed her circling while occasionally scribbling away at the sheet of paper floating before her. The room was very quiet as we all watched, the only sounds filling the air was the delicate clopping of Rarity's hooves with each step, the grinding of a pencil's graphite core against paper, and the constant shrill and almost ethereal hum provided by Rarity's magic aura around her horn. It was strangely relaxing. Especially when Rarity started to hum a familiar tune.

Even without any visible iris or pupil in her eyes, I was certain Ocellus was watching Rarity whenever she passed in front of the motionless Changeling. Gallus and Smolder stood at my sides to stay out of Rarity's way. The griffon boy eventually whispered up to me and asked, "Whaddya think's going on here? She taken measurements for a new dress?"

"I really don't think so... Ocellus doesn't need anything like that and Rarity didn't tell me much earlier. She just had a burst of inspiration and ran off. Although I'm starting to get some ideas..." I muttered in contemplation. I had quickly ruled out any possibility of Rarity putting together an ensemble for Ocellus. I was familiar enough with her line of work to know that all she would have to do is take a client's measurements first. And what Rarity was doing was definitely not that. The most noticeable tool used for such a task, a measuring strip, was absent. All Rarity was doing was drawing on a sheet of blank paper. That step was all about designing the ensemble itself. But why skip the first step when she had never measured Ocellus before?

It took a few minutes and Ocellus was very patient the entire time. Rarity finally came to a stop while looking over the paper before her before saying proudly, "There, I think that will do it! Take a look, darlings! What do you see?"

We all took a step closer to examine the drawing on the paper. And Ocellus responded first. "That's...me. You drew a portrait of me? I mean it's nice and all, but...that's all you wanted to do?"

I was thrown for a loop at first too. All I thought I was seeing was just a sketch of Ocellus herself. But it was Gallus who spotted something off first. The eagle-eyed griffon boy pointed at the drawing and spoke suddenly. "Wait! I'm not seeing any holes in your legs!"

Smolder then noticed some design inconsistencies too and said, "And your mane's a big frilly fin! And your horn and ears look different! I'm not seeing any fangs either."

They were right. While the person on the paper was clearly Ocellus, some aspects of her body had changed. The circular gaps in her limbs were missing. They had been drawn to be whole. The two fangs that are always jutting down from her upper jaw were no longer visible. That scraggly dark mane was now a translucent membrane resembling the wing membrane of an insect. The horn of her head now ended in two tips with a notch splitting them with one tip being just below the other. Although I was quick to notice a particularly odd design choice. "You drew her with a wing as a tail?"

Ocellus herself gave the sketch a cockeyed stare when she noticed how Rarity had designed her tail. While a far more appealing design than the sad excuse of a tail she had at that moment, there was no way around it. It was a cicada wing extending from her posterior. "That...really is a wing tail. That's...weird."

"I admit I was grasping at straws with that last part. But how does it look, darling?" Rarity giggled nervously before taking some pride in her newest creation.

Smolder rubbed a few fingers against her chin while scanning the sketch before us. "It looks...nice. Like I can still tell that's Ocellus."

I decided to give my two cents on the matter. It was becoming abundantly clear what Rarity was trying to do. "That's... Yeah, it's Ocellus. As a Changeling. But a Changeling that looks...nice."

Gallus was the one who finally put the pieces together. "Wait, is that what this is?! You're designing a new look for her to wear?!"

"Exactly, darlings! If the people of Ponyville can't see past how a Changeling looks, then let's dazzle then with a Changeling that actually looks marvelous! You can all see that this here is still a Changeling, no? But it's a very approachable look for a Changeling, yes?" Rarity explained with great enthusiasm. I suppose I should not have been surprised. While Rarity has always excelled in the field of fashion, she is still an artist with a strong grasp of visual design. How brilliant to use her skills to design a new inherent look for a Changeling's base form!

Ocellus was stunned. She could barely believe that she was seeing a sketch of herself, but simply prettier than how she looked then. Even after we had noticed the design inconsistencies, there was no mistaking the form on the paper. That was a Changeling. There was nothing else it could be. Ocellus narrowed her eyes as she finally evaluated this potential new look for herself. "The tail wing thing is kinda weird...but it's a cute kind of weird. I think I could even use it like a rudder to help steer myself when I'm flying. And it all looks so...cute. Like...I actually recognize myself here."

"Wow, and here I'd thought no one could call a Changeling cute. That's how you know this is a good look." Gallus snickered while patting Ocellus on the back. She tilted her head to one side that had me suspect she was rolling her eyes despite lacking visible irises, but Ocellus was at least amused.

"Excellent! Now then, let's move on the final touches. To bring out the beauty inside you and finally put it on the outside, we need to figure out what colors you will dazzle the world with!" Rarity cheered while tapping her hooves together with a little show of delighted applause. Her magic aura then called over a set of colored pencils. Rarity turned the paper away from us and back to herself to keep her work hidden while she started to scribble away. Her eyes kept glancing over the paper at Ocellus while I took note of the color choices Rarity kept picking. She was focusing on hues of pink and two different types of cyan or pale blue. "Just give me a moment, darlings. Deciding on the colors is always the easy part for me."

I kneeled beside my three friends as I felt a subtle excitement filling my heart. But none of us was more excited than Ocellus. She sat there before us while almost looking like she was about to start gnawing on her hooves. Smolder crossed her arms and leaned towards Ocellus with such a smirk on her lips. "You excited, love bug?"

"I don't think I've ever been more excited...!" Ocellus whimpered with eyes wide and even her little tattered wings constantly vibrating outside of her carapace. "Will I finally be pretty? Will I not have to...hide anymore?"

I rested my hand atop her head to get Ocellus' attention. I had high hopes by this point. Rarity knows her craft well and I knew better than to doubt her abilities in discovering ways to bring one's inner beauty to the surface. "You will, love bug. Just leave it to Rarity."

Moments went by before Rarity returned her colored pencils to their case. And I could see her eyes widen with utter joy. "Darlings, I do believe I have outdone myself this time! Take a look! Do you see yourself in this, Ocellus? Did I capture the real you?"

Our jaws dropped. The new look for Ocellus had been given such a soft pastel color scheme that I could not imagine being better suited for her. Rarity went with a complimentary color scheme leaning towards red and green, but greatly diluted. The membranes of Ocellus' mane and tail were a very light pink while her body was an almost icy bluish hue of sea green. Her eyes, while still lacking a visible iris and pupil, was a solid shade of cyan. Rarity had even drawn in Ocellus' wings with them raised high to show them fully intact without any pieces missing, their colors matching the false wing serving as a tail. But I could also make out a bolder pink hue bordering on a shade of red covering her carapace. Pale spots adorned the covers for her wings, lending a ladybug aesthetic to her form that I found far too fitting. Gallus whistled while being the first to speak. "Wow! Now that's one cute love bug!"

"That's...me? That's supposed to be...the real me?" Ocellus asked with her hooves held over her mouth. She almost sounded like she was on the verge of tears. It was such an adorable form being displayed before us. And it really did feel like we were looking at the true Ocellus. And yet...there was a certain tragedy to that picture. Had it not been for her ability to shapeshift, that image before us could have served as a form she had been denied. Something she could have been at one time, but with the opportunity stolen from her. But not this time. All that was left was to reach out and claim her true form.

Rarity smiled much more softly at the tender Changeling mare before her. As she stepped back, the rest of us gently nudged Ocellus forward. The beautiful and generous artiste then spoke what needed to be said. "Go ahead, dear. Show us the real you."

"Mmhm... Right. Just let me...take a good long look at this." Ocellus muttered as she sighed harshly to collect herself. This was it. A form that was entirely her own and not an act of masquerading as something she is not. We all watched with bated breath as Ocellus closely scanned the design before her. Taking in all the details to know how to replicate it. She soon took a step back and placed herself right between us and Rarity while she closed her eyes, her tattered wings spreading wide for us to see. "Here I go..."

"You got this, Ocellus." Smolder said with a raised fist. I prayed that this would be an easy feat for her. And with a brief flash of a green magic aura around her horn, Ocellus was suddenly engulfed by an aura of green flames. But this aura was not quick to fade. It lingered there. Enshrouding the Changeling in the middle of Carousel Boutique. She must have been taking her time. Trying to replicate every single detail from memory. And just when we were starting to suspect that something had gone wrong, the flames finally receded. And Smolder was the first to speak. "Whoa..."

Once again, our jaws dropped. Perhaps even harder than before. Rarity even removed her glasses to get an unaltered look at her guest. The creature before us was very obviously a Changeling. But...not quite the same we remembered. Ocellus glanced back and forth at us and asked, "Did I...do it? Am I pretty now?"

I... I was utterly spellbound by what I was seeing. To see that form as a mere drawing on paper was one thing. But to see it in the flesh? It was her. I knew that I was looking at Ocellus. Not as a dragoness, but as a Changeling. She had replicated the design Rarity had come up with perfectly. Even her eyes, while still featureless, looked less clouded than before. They had a smooth shiny luster to them with a couple beads of white light reflecting off their surfaces. And even more gorgeous were the membranes of her three wings and even her mane. They were beautifully translucent and even sparkled in the light. She looked...so very lovely.

No one could bring themselves to speak. And I took a step forward. That beautiful little Changeling... I was completely smitten as I beheld the true Ocellus for the first time. I had always adored her in spite of how she had looked before. But now...I felt my heart calling out to her like never before. I felt so proud of her... So happy to see that unfortunate little love bug looking just as lovely on the outside as she had always been on the inside. I think I even felt a single tear flow from my eyes. I could not resist. I needed to hold her. I briskly approached the startled Changeling and dropped to my knee, my hands quickly resting upon her shoulders. "You are...just...so beautiful..."

"I...am...?" Ocellus muttered while Smolder and Gallus appeared to be at a loss for words. I pulled that beautiful little creature into my arms and squinted my eyes shut to force the tears out. It was just...such a jarring change, but for all the right reasons. Ocellus then whispered to me from just under my head, "Your heart is overflowing..."

"Ocellus... Darling, I..." Rarity muttered as even she struggled to speak. She looked every bit as stunned as I was to the point of looking more and more emotional. She then quickly used her magic to bring over a tall mirror and said, "Just...see for yourself. Words just can't do it justice this time..."

I reluctantly released Ocellus to allow her to stand before the mirror alone. And she gazed in utter awe with those big blank eyes. "That's...me...?"

She reached out to the mirror and touched a hoof to that of her reflection. The room was deathly silent as Ocellus saw the real her for the first time. A beautiful and delicate little mare. And like me, fresh tears began to build at the edges of her eyes while a quivering smile formed on her lips. "I'm...so...pretty..."

"Yeah... Totally. That's one pretty love bug." Gallus finally said as he sighed after holding his breath for too long. Ocellus turned and posed before the mirror to fully evaluate her new form. And she never stopped smiling. She spread her fully untarnished wings as they shimmered in a stray ray of light. Ocellus even began to flutter them to see how well they would keep her in the air. The unmistakable fluttering sound of cicada wings filled the air as she effortlessly hovered in place for a few seconds. Gallus smirked in satisfaction as he added, "I'd like to see anyone in town have a problem with this. That's way too cute."

Finally, Ocellus could contain herself no longer. She turned to the mare who made that all possible and grabbed her in a tearful embrace. "Thank you! Thank you, I love it! It really feels like this is how I should be! Like I finally found the real me!"

Rarity all too happily embraced her little friend, a hoof lightly patting her between the shoulders. "There there, darling. Just be sure to wear this look from now on and everypony around you will come to see how lovely you truly are."

Under any other circumstances, this would have felt like an act of Ocellus continuing to hide behind a mask. But not this time. The form she was wearing was still clearly that of a Changeling. She was not hiding. She was only showing how she looked on the inside. The timid little mare then pulled back from her friend and asked, "What do I owe you? Can I ever repay you for this?"

"What?! Oh, no no no no, there's no need for that, dear! This was just a favor for a friend! It's not like I wove something for you with any of my raw materials after all." Rarity replied with a nervous chuckle. She then held Ocellus by the shoulders and planted a kiss upon each cheek that appeared to leave the little Changeling stunned. I knew this was only a display of genuine affection for her little friend and reaffirmation that she was lovely enough to receive such a tender display. "Seeing you walk out of here with a smile will be thanks enough for me."

Ocellus was speechless, but still smiled tearfully. She turned to me while I dried her tears myself. She looked like there was something she wanted to say. Except maybe not something she wished to say in front of others. Although Rarity did step forward as her eyes lit up. "But...if I might make a suggestion? If you still have time today, show off your new look to our friends! They'll definitely want to meet the new you!"

"Do we even got time? I'd like to get back before dark." Gallus replied while I noticed a clock on the far wall. The time was nearing 7 PM. While we did make good time in the end, there was no ignoring how the sun sets sooner than usual in autumn.

"Hey, later times means fewer folks around. We won't have to worry about too many gawkers right now. Come on, let's get going! Time to show the new love bug off!" Smolder spoke up before hurrying over to the front door with her friends while they all said their goodbyes.

I stuck around just a little longer. With the three of them hurrying out the door, I kneeled before Rarity and spoke softly to her. "Thank you for doing that for her, Rarity. She's had a rough week and I'm sure things wouldn't ever get better with how everyone in town saw her. Changelings... Their reputation goes back too far to ever be shaken off like that."

"I know, darling... I just wanted to see that inner beauty shine for all to see. It was brave of you to bring her into the fold when you did. If she could win us over, then surely the rest of Ponyville will grow to love her too." Rarity replied with her hoof gently cradling my cheek. I could see the need in her eyes now that we were alone. The two of us shared a brief kiss before she batted her lovely eyelashes at me. "Run along now, my love. And I will be seeing you tomorrow with Fluttershy at the spa. We've spent far too long waiting to get back to the usual!"

"Got it. I'll see you there, m'lady." I replied with a whisper before kissing her one more time on the cheek. I then hurried for the door and found Smolder, Gallus, and Ocellus right outside. And I was quick to see just how late it was getting now that we were facing west. The sun was getting low in the sky and was on the verge of touching the horizon. And we were about as far away from Fluttershy's cottage as we could get in Ponyville. "Wow, we're in for a long walk. We probably don't have time to visit everyone."

Smolder crossed her arms while tapping a finger on one elbow. Her slightly pursed lips and narrowing eyes told me she was thinking. She had been through and above Ponyville often enough to get a feeling for a layout of the town and spending so much time wandering the wilds over the past two years had likely sharpened her memory and sense of direction. She then looked at us and said, "How about this? We stop by the library first, then Sugarcube Corner, and then we head home to Fluttershy's place and hope we spot Rainbow Dash on the way? There's no way we have time to visit Sweet Apple Acres."

"Sounds like a plan. Just stay close, Ocellus. Not that anyone should have a problem with a cute love bug in town." Gallus replied before tapping a finger atop Ocellus' forked horn. We then headed off at a brisk pace. Perhaps it was for the best that we waited until so late in the day to finally get that issue taken care of. Not many were out and about by then.

We circled around the town hall and came to a stop by the wishing fountain in the square. We still had time to spare and decided to take a seat on the edge of the stone basin. The basin was still full for now with the water inside being circulated by a pump in the base, but it would be shut off and drained in the coming weeks to prepare for winter. I looked up at the stone statue in the center. Seeing such fixtures that work around water being shut off is one of the more depressing heralds of winter's approach.

"So, we chilling for just five minutes? Let some folks pass by and see the new girl in town?" Smolder asked while Ocellus rested her head upon my lap. Gallus and Smolder bordered the two of us on each side with the former being closest to me on my left.

"Yeah, sounds good." I replied while we just sat there doing nothing. Almost like we were a quartet of weirdoes trying not to act suspicious. Gallus even started to whistle a tune while inspecting his talons. Some locals did pass us by and I could feel Ocellus tense up while I stroked my hand down her head and over her carapace. Although she did start to relax after the fifth Ponyville local passed us. I especially found myself enjoying messing with the gossamer crest on her head. It looked stiff like most insect wings, but it was about as soft and flexible as butterfly wings. I flicked my fingers against the edge to feel it flap about. When I started doing it rapidly, Ocellus buried her face against my thigh as she burst into quiet giggling. "You in a good mood, love bug?"

"My old mane could never do that!" She squealed in enjoyment before looking up at me with those shiny blank eyes. Smolder and Gallus looked our way as they noticed her cheerful mood. The not quite disguised Changeling looked back and forth at them before she suddenly noticed her own mood. "Hey! I don't feel any ill will!"

Smolder grinned at her friend and asked, "You mean you haven't felt any bad vibes from anypony walking by?"

"Um...well, I... I wouldn't call them good vibes either." Ocellus replied while we tried to not make eye contact with the next pony to pass us. "They feel more...curious than anything. At least they aren't wary of me."

"And you're not really hiding what you are. Still a love bug, right?" Gallus asked while we all smiled together. It was all finally starting to look up for our little friend. We still had a couple of minutes left before we would move on. And before we could depart, two more locals came by that I actually recognized. Bon Bon and Lyra were out for a stroll to enjoy an autumn sunset. And the instant Bon Bon looked our way, I felt Ocellus flinch against me. Gallus' keen eyes could make out the look on Bon Bon's face better than we could. "Uh oh. Look alive, guys. I don't like that scowl she's giving us."

"She's wary. Very wary. And I don't get why..." Ocellus whimpered against me as I rested a hand over her body in a protective manner. While I have never known Bon Bon as well as I do Lyra, I never saw her as an aggressive mare. And I did not have to get any closer to see what she did next. Bon Bon pulled a pair of sunglasses out of her mane and placed them atop her snout. Ocellus muttered in confusion, "Huh? Sunglasses? Why?"

I could see Lyra just shake her head in annoyance. And I suddenly recalled a conversation I had with her that summer. Those memories coming back to me, I groaned as Bon Bon came trotting our way. "Oh boy, I think I know where this is going. Sit tight, this is about to get weird."

There was absolutely no discretion in Bon Bon's approach. She trotted right up to us without a greeting and scanned a very confused Ocellus with a hoof rubbing her own chin. "Hmmm... Bright and colorful, but still possessing insect traits... Are you a Changeling?"

Gallus spoke first while sounding more confused than aggressive. "Who wants to know?"

"Changelings are nothing but trouble. And trying to hide in plain sight? Very suspicious. Maybe I should send word to Princess Celestia through my contacts..." Bon Bon replied while starting to make Ocellus sweat with unease. Her smooth chitin developed a few moist spots under my palm. I am not even sure if that was sweat or condensation caused by a different chemical reaction in her body, but I was not going to question it.

"Bon Bon, knock it off with your secret agent crap. Everyone knows no such organization exists in Equestria." I grumbled as I finally understood what Lyra had to put up with from time to time. What a dork. And I quickly pieced together an idea. I scooped Ocellus up into my arms and said, "Besides, this isn't a Changeling. This is a love bug."

The overzealous hobbyist gave me a very cockeyed stare over her sunglasses. She raised an eyebrow and asked, "A what?"

I heard Ocellus squeak against me. Not thinking about what my words would do to her, I started to lay out the beautiful truth. "Changelings might be trouble, but love bugs are always great. And Ocellus is the best love bug in the world. They're beautiful little things, they just want to love and be loved, they always want to make their friends happy, and this one's the best out of all of them."

The sound I heard right under my chin... Ocellus began to let out muffled squeals as even her carapace sprang open to reveal her spastically fluttering wings. She must have been overdosing on the positivity in my feelings towards her. Smolder then smirked at us and added, "Yep, best love bug in the world right here. You can rest easy. She's never any trouble to anyone."

Her look of confusion turning into a frown, Bon Bon pushed her sunglasses higher up on her snout. "Yeah? Too bad I don't buy it. You're hiding something and I intend to..."

"Bon Bon, quit it!" Lyra suddenly shouted as she rushed up beside her housemate after listening for long enough. Bon Bon even had enough sense to wince and back down from her significant other. Lyra then pointed over yonder and said, "You're making a scene! Go wait in the corner!"

"All right, all right... But I'll be watching!" Bon Bon grumbled as she trotted away. To think I had all but forgotten about what I was told last Hearts and Hooves Day...

Lyra was quick to apologize to us with a crooked smile on her lips. "Sorry about that. I did warn you that Bon Bon is way too into her favorite hobby."

"I can't believe I almost forgot you told me. Now I see why it's such a hassle for you." I replied as Ocellus calmed down and tucked her wings away.

Now that the situation had calmed down, Lyra was quick to get a good look at the little love bug in my embrace. "Anyway, who's your friend? She's cute!"

Ocellus twitched at the sudden show of positive emotions towards her. Everything was turning out fine after all. I gently stroked my little friend's head and said, "This is Ocellus. And she's a love bug."

I suppose Lyra was a little too far away to have been within earshot when Bon Bon made her accusations. But she still came to the same conclusion. "Isn't a love bug...a Changeling?"

"Hey, there's a world of difference between love bugs and Changelings. Changelings are trouble and love bugs are good bugs. Right?" Gallus spoke up while casting a knowing smirk our way.

Smolder then reached out and patted her friend on the head. "Trust us, we've known her longer than anyone. Ocellus is a good little love bug. Right? Who's a good little love bug?"

"Smolder, you're not helping..." Ocellus grumbled while still cracking a very crooked smile at her friend's silly words. She may have been lounging on my lap like a large pet, but she was a mare all the same.

Lyra did not question us further. Between Ocellus' very unassuming appearance and the three of us singing her praises, my friend saw no reason to be suspicious of her. "In any case, it's nice to meet you, Ocellus. I hope you enjoy your time in Ponyville."

"Uh... Thank you, Miss...um...Lyra?" Ocellus muttered while trying to figure out my friend's name. Our goodbyes said, Lyra then trotted off for home with Bon Bon. Ocellus sighed in relief before speaking softly. "That was...the nicest meeting I've had with anyone in Ponyville so far."

"Sounds like a step in the right direction. Anyway, time to go. We wanna get home before night gets here, right?" Gallus asked while being the first to stand. We hurried on our way with the hopes of finding as many of our closest circle of friends as possible. But we had just barely left the town square when Gallus glanced up. "Hey, isn't that... Here she comes!"

I only glanced up in time to see a dim rainbow streak swirling through the air as someone came down quickly to land before us. Rainbow Dash had been passing overhead while probably on her way home to the south. She called out in greeting, "Hey, guys! Wait up a minute! Whatcha got there?!"

"I dunno. Recognize someone?" I asked once Rainbow Dash was standing before us. Ocellus shrunk backwards and up against my leg. She was not used to being directly identified in public.

Rainbow Dash stared with her eyes becoming increasingly narrow. But she still quickly came to a realization. "No way... Ocellus...? Ocellus, is that you?"

The timid love bug could only nod. And Rainbow Dash was happy with what she was seeing. She stepped forward and asked, "Sweet! I'm liking the new look! Where'd you get it? Did you come up with it yourself?"

"Rarity came up with the design. Something for Ocellus to wear that still makes it clear that she's a Changeling. Just something to better agree with the people in town." I explained in brief. We did not want any of our friends to get the wrong idea.

Something about the concept of Rarity designing a look for a Changeling instead of designing a new ensemble made Rainbow laugh. "Ha, that's new! I guess Rarity's just the #1 designer in Ponyville even if it's about designing a Changeling disguise! What's next? She gonna design architecture?"

"Uuuuuh... Maybe?" Smolder asked while just shrugging her shoulders. I just shook my head. Rarity definitely has a knack for the arts, but I suppose designing how something looks on someone, even if it is their own natural body's appearance, still falls under the category of fashion. I strongly doubt she would have any idea where to begin when it comes to designing vehicles or designer homes. Smolder then waved her hands and said, "Anyway, we're kinda on a tight schedule. It's getting late and we wanna meet up with the girls before it gets too dark."

"I getcha. I was heading home too. Anyway, loving the new look, Ocellus! Catch you guys later!" Rainbow Dash replied before taking to the sky as quickly as she arrived. While she headed south, we went north. It was a shame we could not talk longer, but it was starting to get a bit too cool out for my liking.

The lights were on beyond the windows of the library when it came into view. I decided to enter first and ducked through the doorway. And I was not expecting to not be the first guest of the evening. A voice I was not expecting greeted me first. "Hey there, James! How'd you know I was here?"

"Wha... Pinkie?! Actually, great timing! This saves us some trouble." I laughed upon realizing what wondrous serendipity we had that evening. Pinkie Pie was standing by Twilight and Spike at the central table on the first floor after having dropped off a box of pastries. Probably just a last minute delivery to be made. "Anyway... Come on in, guys."

"Brought some friends with you, James?" Twilight asked while Spike preoccupied himself with a chocolate drop. Smolder entered first, then Gallus, and finally Ocellus. And everyone responded to the new look on the only Changeling in the room. They stared with wide eyes and confused silence. Except for Spike. He took a good three seconds to notice something in the room he had never seen before while munching on the treat in his hands. Twilight, analytical as always, quickly figured it out. "Ocellus...?"

"Mmhm... It's a new look. You like it?" Ocellus asked while we all allowed her to speak.

"Eeeee, I didn't know Changelings could be so cutesy wootsy!" Pinkie Pie squealed with her hooves on her cheeks. She made a very direct approach to her little friend and snatched Ocellus up in her arms for a hug. Were Changelings literally as fragile as insects, Ocellus would have surely been squished. Although Pinkie Pie then asked a bit more quietly, "Is this because of all the times I saw you looking like you were having a really bad time? You've been wearing your old scary bug look all week and always looked so unhappy. Are you hiding from anypony?"

"No! No, I'm not hiding! I don't want to hide!" Ocellus replied while Pinkie Pie set her back down. "But...no one trusted me in my natural form. They were all...wary of me. And...I could literally feel it. Then...Rarity designed this for me so I could still be a Changeling without looking scary. And...I really like it! This feels like...me."

"If Rarity was trying to design a look for you that lets everyone in town know who you are, then I think it worked. I knew it was you right away, Ocellus." Twilight said while Spike hopped off the table and came over to take a closer look at the Changeling in her new form.

Spike started to circle Ocellus while Smolder and Gallus stayed back to just be along for the ride. The dragon boy said, "Wow... I'm really liking the colors! Kinda brings to mind those little chalky candies I eat sometimes."

Ocellus giggled at the appreciation, although she then looked back and forth between Spike and Smolder as a look of curiosity filled her eyes. "Say, um... Spike? Maybe it's because I don't know that much about dragons, but why don't you have wings?"

Spike took no issue with his lack of flying tools. "Oh, I don't have wings because I'm... I'm a... Smolder? What'd you call me that time?"

Smolder happily replied, "Oh, that's what we call you wingless dragons back home. Flightless dragons are called diggers. Because they're really strong and really good at digging through earth and even rock."

Twilight took a moment to toss Spike's half-eaten chocolate drop back over to him. Her aim was a little off or maybe she simply lobbed it too hard. Spike reached up and tried to catch it, but immediately fumbled it and almost fell over. And just when it looked like it would hit the floor, he stuck out his tongue and...snatched it out of the air with his tongue easily reaching twice his own body length. Smolder stared in bewilderment for a few seconds before adding, "Oh, right. Forgot about that one. They have the craziest tongues too."

Spike scarfed down his treat before he could have the chance to drop it again. While the rest of us had seen that odd physical trait of his before, it was the first time Gallus had witnessed it. He stared at Spike with a cockeyed look before asking, "Just how long have you been able to do that?"

"I...uh...forget I can do that about half the time." Spike snickered with some embarrassment. Although with the topic shifting to dragon wings, he then pointed at Ocellus' spotted carapace and asked, "Hey, can't Changelings fly too? Have you tried doing that with your new look yet?"

Pinkie Pie jumped at this topic. She hopped forward and took a closer look at a sheepish Ocellus and said, "Oh, right! Show us your wings! I bet they're a lot prettier now too!"

"Um...sure?" Ocellus muttered before opening her carapace and spreading her glittering translucent wings. Our three hosts came closer to appreciate those shimmering gossamer wings while Ocellus grinned timidly, her hoof rubbing over the opposite arm. Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and even Spike gazed upon her with excited eyes. As if they were waiting for something. And Ocellus quickly remembered what Spike had asked her before looking upward. "Um... Is it really safe to fly indoors? The ceiling looks a little low..."

"What're you talking about? The ceiling's even lower at Fluttershy's place and you never see Rainbow Dash having any problems when she comes over to visit." Smolder replied with her arms crossed. Under normal circumstances, the ceiling of the library probably would have been lower. I was certain the only reason its ceiling on the first floor was so high was to allow for more space with the bookcases.

Twilight then took a step forward to look down at Ocellus. "Changelings fly in the same manner as insects, right? Pegasi fly in the same manner as birds, so your ability to hover in place should be easier than theirs. Go ahead, Ocellus. We know you'll do fine."

She was still very unsure of herself. Ocellus had not yet tried taking to the air with her new body and her new set of wings. Would it be easier to control or would she overexert herself? That was when I had an idea. I stepped over to Ocellus and reached down to her with my hands. "Here. I'll hold you so you don't go flying off."

"Oh...? Oh! I see!" Ocellus squeaked in sudden realization. She looked much more willing to give it a try once she reached up and placed a hoof in each hand. I gripped her hooves firmly while she looked back at her wings. "OK... Here I go."

Instead of flapping her wings back and forth in a steady rhythm like those of...literally anything else, Ocellus began to rapidly flutter her wings in a manner only an insect could do. Or Scootaloo, but she is an unusual case. The buzz coming from them was hardly a buzz at all. More like somewhere between the fluttering of cicada and butterfly wings. And with her newfound lift, Ocellus left the floor.

She looked utterly giddy as she rose higher off the wooden library floor. And I never let go. It was like holding onto the horn of a large beetle as it tried to fly and just guiding it around while its rapidly fluttering wings held it aloft. Ocellus rose above my head while everyone watched in thrilled silence as I began to turn back and forth with her hooves in my hands. I began to make wide sweeping turns with my body to pull the hovering Changeling through the air with grace. Even making her dip and rise in a manner that caused her to start giggling. It was as if we were performing a dance for all to see.

Ocellus was having the time of her life. Grinning and giggling, she did nothing more than hold herself aloft with her wings while I did the rest of the work. And I felt so accomplished that I was helping that precious little love bug become more confident in her new body. After a couple of minutes of guiding her around like a toy on a string, I decided to take the next step. "I'm gonna let go now. Ready?"

"Mm... Mmhm?" Ocellus mumbled as she gulped hard in unease. With that, my hands released her hooves. And there she was. Just hovering over us on her own two wings. Almost completely motionless in the air. We were all smiling, but no one was smiling more than Ocellus herself. She began to descend and soon lightly landed upon the floor. Her wings folded up against her back before the two raised halves of her carapace lowered back into place with an audible click. At that instant, everyone around her applauded. Ocellus could barely even speak as she rubbed the side of her head. "Awww... I wasn't that great, was I?"

"That was your first time flying with your new look! And you got it down pat!" Smolder cheered as she applauded. The little dragoness could not resist and rushed right up to her best friend before grabbing the timid Changeling in a firm hug. "So proud of you, love bug! Now you're a real cuddle bug!"

"Love bug? Cuddle bug? Which am I?!" Ocellus laughed at the interchangeable terminology she was constantly on the receiving end of. But she soon relaxed as everyone stepped forward to give her a hug of congratulations as well. Except for me. I was too big and I knew I would be getting plenty of time to her myself that evening. She can never go a night without a snuggle with me.

We all departed from the library in a good mood. And Ocellus trotted along ahead of us with a renewed spring in her step. We had to hurry along to get home now that the sky was truly darkening. Ocellus was in such a good mood that she never once flinched in response to bad vibes around her. Anyone we passed who saw her must have thought she was too sincerely adorable to be wary of.

The cold of an autumn evening started to creep in to the point where even I was having difficulty tolerating it. I tried to ignore the bite of the cold and always had a certain resistance to lower temperatures, but I was sure the temperature had dropped into the 40s by then. Smolder did not notice since she was staying close behind Ocellus, but Gallus was still by my side and noticed how I began to rub my arms over my chest. "What's up? Can't take the cold?"

"Not this cold. I can go as low as 50 degrees, but this is just too much..." I grumbled as I hastened my pace. All I could do was put up with that unpleasant cold snap until I was back indoors. At least Gallus did not seem to mind. His fluffy coat was good at retaining heat.

"Hey, hold on a sec. Lemme try something." Gallus replied as he came to a stop. When I paused and started to turn around, he really surprised me. The griffon boy practically pounced on me with his hands grabbing my shoulders from behind and his legs trying to pin themselves over my hips. He then folded his wings forward and draped them over me like a big embrace. He then spoke into my ear, "How's that? Comfy, right?"

As awkward as it was to have my griffon friend piggybacking on me with such short notice, I quickly noticed a difference. His impressive wingspan combined with his fluffy body against my back was doing an excellent job of keeping out much of the cold. His wings in particular were shielding me like a cloak. "Wow, that's... This is really insulating. Thanks! What do I owe you?"

"A free ride back to your place." Gallus snickered while I just rolled my eyes. And so I continued on at a brisk pace to catch up to our two friends. Although while Ocellus was too preoccupied with just prancing along while in such a jolly mood, Smolder happened to look back and stared at me and my fluffy passenger. And that long silent pause was getting me uncomfortable. "What?"

Smolder finally spoke while she smirked at the two of us. "Did anyone ever tell you boys that you've got such an adorable bromance going on here?"

Gallus and I both flinched and went out of our way to not look at each other. Even though it was Gallus who replied first. And with his own snide bit of snark. "What? This guy's a bro. Just don't expect us to start calling you our sis, all right?"

The little dragon lady just laughed while she turned away and continued on. But really, Gallus' feathery embrace was very comfortable and insulating. And he was lighter than I expected. It was no trouble at all walking along while he clung to my back. Gallus eventually whispered into my ear, "Bromance, huh?"

"Hey, you'll always be my bro, blue bird." I said jokingly while he just nuzzled his fluffy head up against mine. We both got a good chuckle out of that. I was just happy to see that Gallus was happy. I do consider that griffon boy a good friend and hope his life in Ponyville will just keep getting better.

We finally reached the western edge of Ponyville as night finally set in. And I could smell dinner being prepared even from there as the wind blew east. We eventually passed by the spot where Ocellus and Smolder would be having their house built. More progress had been made with it looking like little flags had been placed out around the outline. I suspect they were trying to figure out how to make a connection to Ponyville's plumbing network before getting to work on setting the foundation.

We all stood outside the front door while Gallus hopped down from me. He then shared a quick fist bump with me and Smolder, but the overjoyed Ocellus would not settle for anything less than a hug. Gallus rolled his eyes once he was caught in her embrace and patted her on the back. "Yeah, I'm happy for you too, love bug. Let's catch up tomorrow, OK?"

"Mmhm! I had a wonderful time today! See you later, Gallus!" Ocellus chirped in delight. She was just...so happy. Surrounded by friends and a constant supply of love was doing wonders for her mood. We watched as Gallus took to the air and headed south to get back to Sweet Apple Acres. It was just a shame we did not have time to swing by there and show Applejack our little friend's new look.

Little did I know, we were in for a surprise when we stepped inside. None other than Applejack was watching over little Gladesong while even reading off a storybook set out before them. "And then, with the great witch Porcina ready ta turn all of Ponyland inta a glass kingdom, the little ponies said...whoa nelly, ain't that a pretty thing!"

It took us a second to realize that Applejack had been distracted by Ocellus coming into her field of view. The little love bug asked, "Are you sure that's what they said? I'm pretty sure that's not how the story goes..."

"Nah, it ain't. It's just...golly, is that you, Ocellus? Decided ya wanted a new look that was all yers and still a Changeling? Because I reckon it's workin'! I knew it was you as soon as I saw ya." Applejack chuckled as she took in the sight of the new look on our little Changeling friend.

Most importantly of all, even Gladesong seemed to recognize her instantly. My daughter giggled in excitement as she saw her favorite Changeling and reached out to her. "La ba! La ba!"

"Oh my goodness, you remembered! Yes, it's still me, Gladesong! Your love bug is home!" Ocellus giggled before trotting right over to the two of them and taking Gladesong into her arms. She cradled the tiny filly in her embrace and asked, "Is your love bug a pretty bug now? Ooooh, that's right. This is all still smooth chitin on me. But I'm still soft!"

Gladesong would not stop rubbing her hooves all over Ocellus' face and neck. And I should not have been surprised by Applejack's presence in our house. She does routinely bring over fresh apple treats for our daughters. And it is usually later in the day so they can be used for dessert. Although she did soon look towards the kitchen and call out. "Fluttershy, get in here! There's a new love bug in town!"

"New love bug? Are more Changelings starting to... Oh?" Fluttershy replied in confusion before she stopped in the doorway. I waved at her before looking down at the beautiful Changeling nuzzling our daughter. And my wife's eyes lit up in awe at what she was seeing. "Oh my goodness, is that you?! Ocellus, did you come up with this look yourself?!"

Ocellus was grinning wider than I had ever seen while Smolder passed Fluttershy on her way to the kitchen in order to cover for her in preparing dinner. The precious little love bug mare replied, "I'm so glad you all know it's me just by looking at me! But no, Rarity designed this look for me and I just...took on this form. How do I look? Do I still look like a Changeling? Even if this isn't my natural look?"

Fluttershy stepped over to our friend while smiling in delight before rubbing her hoof over Ocellus' translucent fin mane. "Yes, you definitely look like a Changeling still. I just didn't know Changelings could be so pretty! Will you be looking like this from now on instead of your dragon form?"

"Um... I don't think I'll be abandoning my dragon look. I really like that one. But I also feel really comfortable in this form. Like...this is the real me. I'll try to wear this all the time until I fully memorize it. Maybe I'll go back and forth between this and my dragon body." Ocellus said before noticing Gladesong reaching up to touch her jaw again. She looked down at the little filly and spoke with a cute buzzy giggle. "Hee, you like the sound of that? You want this big pretty ladybug to hold you from now on? Your favorite love bug is here to stay, Gladesong."

Applejack even stayed for dinner as Ocellus quickly became the talk of the house at the dinner table. Even Scootaloo was very impressed with her new look. Although she was the first person to not immediately recognize Ocellus at first glance. Aside from her appearance, nothing had changed between us. We all still adored Ocellus for the beautiful little lady she had always been on the inside. The only thing that had changed was now that inner beauty was on the outside for all to see.

As the house started to go quiet a while later, I sat myself down at my typewriter to chronicle this very special day. And I did not go undisturbed for too long. I heard the door to the laundry room open behind me. I had gotten into the habit of expecting the soft tapping of dragon feet. But this time, I heard the clopping of little hooves. A glance to my right revealed little Ocellus standing at my side. And she was not wearing her favorite dragon disguise. "Hey there, love bug. Not going dragon tonight?"

"Nope. I want to wear this look for a good while so I can really memorize it. It feels like...the real me, you know?" She replied with those beautiful shiny eyes gazing up at me while only occasionally interrupted by a quick blink. She then reached up with one arm and said, "I just... Do you have time? If I'm interrupting, I can just..."

"No, you're not interrupting, love bug. Come here." I replied before turning to her in my seat and lifting the little mare into my arms. Now that Ocellus was back in her natural Changeling form...at least in a certain sense...I was reminded of just how petite she is. Ocellus was a grown mare by then, but was still smaller than even Fluttershy. So lithe and delicate too with her rather long and slender limbs. I cradled her in my arms like a little lamb and whispered while making certain the door was closed. "You're too important for me to turn away."

"Am I really...?" She asked softly, but with a much sweeter tone than before. There was no uncertainty and bitterness in that voice. She then lifted her head to look at me, but had to be mindful now that her horn was back on her brow. "Oops, sorry. Almost poked you. I got too used to not using magic while I had hands."

"Heh, just make sure you only poke me in my chin. Don't want that in my eye." I retorted while glad to see that she was very aware of her body's features. While that new horn design was meant for channeling magic and not to be used as a weapon, it still had a fairly defined point or two. A good enough jab from it could probably break my skin. It probably was nowhere near as hard as a unicorn horn though. That observation suddenly brought a question to mind. "Say... Do you need that horn to use Changeling magic in the first place?"

Her eyes widened in surprised. Like what I had asked was a concept she had never thought about. "No, not really. Some Changelings don't even have horns like this. Our magic to change form is...inherent. But those of us who do have horns like this can use magic like unicorns. Changelings...are just weird like that. Although any Changeling can use magic if they become a unicorn."

I reached up and lightly rubbed my finger between the two tips of her horn. And I found myself smirking as I considered the wonderful versatility of her race. "Is there anything you love bugs can't do?"

Ocellus grinned while letting out a giggle. Not a fang could be seen in her set of pearly white teeth. She did not look dangerous in the slightest. If anything, she looked more docile than her dragon form ever did. How could anyone expect hostility from her by then? Although Ocellus' mood softened as her tone became quieter. "This is all because of you, right?"

Her gratitude was unwavering. And I could not help but feel like it was misplaced. "Wha... Ocellus, I didn't give you this form. That was a gift from Rarity. If you're going to thank anyone, thank her. I never would've come up with this look for you, even if you asked me to design it. I just don't have that kind of artistic skill."

"James... Did you forget?" She asked softly while almost sounding disappointed. The beautiful love bug leaned into me more as she whispered, "I wouldn't even be here if you didn't find me that day."

That day... On the Empty Plains in the middle of the woods. I sighed in embarrassment as I remembered the instant she shrieked and fainted before me. "I still can't believe I pulled my sword on you... I felt really dumb after that. I swear I wasn't going to hurt you."

"I... I know. You were at war. I bet you thought I was one of the enemy until you saw me." She replied while I only nodded. I was so certain that what little I heard were Hollows lying in wait. Ready to ambush me from behind the trees. Ocellus then nuzzled my chin from below and said, "I really thought that was the end... I was never trained to defend myself. Scouts aren't supposed to engage the enemy when discovered. I saw that sword pointed at me and... Everything else is blank. Did I really faint?"

"Yeah. You did. And I felt awful for scaring you like that. I knew what you were, but it felt like it would be wrong to harm you. I knew the Changelings had nothing to do with the war..." I explained while still remembering the ugly hostility she got from people I saw as being some of my most important friends. Hostility I could never imagine them showing to anyone. "If I knew what everyone back at the encampment would've done when they saw you, I...might have left you there after all. You really didn't deserve the animosity they had for you."

"James... It wasn't me they hated. It's what my people had done. I'm just...glad I don't have to be one of them anymore." Ocellus said with a long sigh. I pulled my head back so I could look her in the eye. She began to smile, even if only slightly. "I'm glad you found me. I don't regret staying with you. You've given me so much... Even if I am a creepy little Changeling under all this. I thought no one could ever love me... But no one's given me more love than you... And you've always given it freely. And now... You gave me this. Now I can look in the mirror and know...that I'm not hiding anymore. That I'm...really a pretty little love bug now. I'm not a monster. I'm...not even really what everyone thinks a Changeling is anymore. I'm just...me. The real me."

I was at a loss for words. I did not want to say something I might regret. Something that could be a half truth at the time. Such heavy words. Ocellus turned in my grasp and rested both hooves upon my chest. And she whispered a beautiful thing to my face. "I love you."

"Ocellus..." I muttered as a wonderful warmth filled my heart. She had said that many times, but at that moment... It carried more weight than ever before. Ocellus leaned closer, lips parting as her eyes began to close. I...could not resist. I adjusted my embrace with a hand rising to the back of her head. And then... That kiss...

It was our first. The first kiss we had ever shared with Ocellus shrouded in her true form. Not what she is, but who she is. Her lips upon mine... Her tongue caressing my own... I was kissing a beautiful true love bug for the first time. My own little love bug. And when that kiss ended, our tongues still connected by a string of shared saliva, she whispered to me with her cheeks filled with a deep cold blue hue. "I'll always be your little love bug... No one... No one will ever have me but you."

She was just so sincere... No doubt in her words. I wish I could understand how a Changeling thinks. How a Changeling listens and feels. How they can gauge and judge a situation by reading those around them and knowing them better than they know themselves. What was she seeing in me? What was she feeling in me? Could she really trust me with her everything? Am I more then just good for her? Am I...perfect for her?

Ocellus could clearly feel me better than I could feel what was in my own heart. My eyes wandered. My words never came. My thoughts were so uncertain. I could trust her, but I was not so sure I could trust myself. There are still so many things I do not know about myself. Things I will only learn in time. But not her. She could read me like a book. My heart was constantly whispering truths to her that the rest of me did not know or hear. And she whispered directly to my ear. "I love you. I'll always love you. And I want to be your everything, James. And I'll wait...for when you're ready. When I can be your love bug... When I can be your mare... Be your woman."

"I would say that you have no idea what you're talking about... But that would be an assumption that I know how Changelings work. And...I don't know that." I replied while Ocellus never lost that patient smile. She was just so lovely... So sincere. And in the depths of my heart... I wanted to believe her. I wanted to be hers. "Please... Give me time. You might know me better than I know myself, but... Please."

"I'll wait, James. You've been very patient with me. Now it's my turn to be patient with you." She replied before placing another kiss upon my lips. Her ears drooped slightly while she gazed into my eyes. "I'll...leave you to your work then. But...just know that you'll always have me. This is one love bug that won't ever fly away from you."

I held her hoof for a moment longer. I expected Ocellus to assume her dragon form in order to hold my hand in hers. But she did not. Ocellus did not abandon that beautiful Changeling body to take on a form that was more familiar to us. She remained as herself as I held her. With great reluctance, she finally departed. And I confess it took some effort to finally find my groove again while pushing my thoughts of Ocellus out of my head.

I am just so happy for that wonderful little love bug. She does not have to hide anymore. Her inner beauty is now on constant display. And it is a change that benefits everyone. Ocellus is happy with her new look while not hiding her identity as a Changeling at all. The locals in town will surely be more willing to give her a chance now. It may not fix the inherent problems of Changelings on a universal level, but on a singular level... It is the best we can do. And everyone is happier for it.

But...there is one thing I am sure Ocellus wants more than anything now. Something only I can give her. And...can I? In spite of everything, can she and I...belong to each other?

Only time will tell. I will not rush such a thing with her. We will just have to wait and see. Ocellus... I just want you to be happy. I want you to be safe. And I want you to belong.

I just hope some day we can belong to each other and never let go.