CHAPTER 8: BROKEN

Sitting in an open field were two very peculiar ponies. It was the dead of night; and they were busy, admiring the scenery of the sky. They seemed to be lost in their own worlds; thinking, contemplating about things. One of the ponies looked as if she were pulled out of some sort of fillytale; or perhaps a magnificent dream. Her coat consisted of a brilliant snow white color, as well as lovely sapphire swirls. She had wings, as well as a horn; she was an alicorn. Her mane consisted of yellow and white, and her eyes were silver. She seemed just as mysterious as she did powerful. She looked to her companion; earnestly.

Her companion stared right back at her, smiling softly. He seemed more common; he was but a colt, with a simple cobalt coat and snow white mane. He was a unicorn. "Hey, was the day we came here the worst day of your life?"

The alicorn raised a brow at the colt curiously, before looking back towards the stars with a smile. "Surprisingly; no. The worst day of my life was, a very long time ago. Why're you so curious anyway?" She smirked.

The colt simply shrugged, looking up at the stars. "I don't know I guess I'm just interested in you is all."

The alicorn smiled somewhat; going over to the colt and giving him a noogie. She then smirked, mimicking his gaze as she to looked up at the beautiful night sky. "It began like any other day I guess."

It had come, the day of the Gala had finally arrived.

Chrysalis was busy in her room; busy getting ready for the Grand Galloping Gala. She seemed very nervous, concentrated on making sure everything would be perfect. She was looking over herself in a nearby mirror; wearing a lovely silver dress. Most would be horrified by her real form; but in this form, she was beautiful. In her mind; she was finally one of the lovely nobles of Canterlot; on this night, she would be complete. She'd proven herself to the Princesses and all of her hard work would finally pay off; this was it.

Suddenly there were a couple of knocks at her door. Her eyes widened.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK!

She called out to whoever it was, rushing over to the door. "C-Coming! Just a minute!" Chrysalis actually made sure to take off her dress as well; poofing it over into the closet. She wanted that little portion to be a surprise. She then patted down her mane some before taking in a deep breath then opening the door with a smile. "Why hello the-...Brightmare?"

It was indeed Ellie; who had a cheesy grin plastered on her features. She wrapped her hooves around Chrysalis with a amused giggle "Why hello to you to. You promised me a briefing, remember?"

Chrysalis blinked a bit before chuckling softly. "Oh yea; of course hehe. Come on inside!"

Ellie made her way into Chrysalis's room; then proceeded to her bed with no hesitation to lean against it. She sighed heavily as she looked at Chrysalis "Looks like Bravemane figured out my full name by the way. I'm guessing he dug through old files or something." She sighed heavily "I swear, things have been crazy as of late Chrysalis. Something weird is going on here."

Chrysalis proceeded over to the mirror; raising a brow curiously as Ellie spoke. "Hmmmm; I don't see why you don't like being called Elliot. I mean I do respect your wishes and all but I'd prefer to call you by your first name to." Chrysalis then turned to look at her friend; her brow still raised "And what do you mean things have been crazy, did something happen?"

Ellie sighed heavily, smirking somewhat at Chrysalis. "If you want to call me by my first name go ahead. If Bravemane can do it, I don't see why you shouldn't be able to. You're probably my closest friend; I never talk to anypony about anything these days. And yes something did happen. But it's nothing you should concern yourself with." Ellie climbed atop Chrysalis's bed. "What I really want to hear about is this dinner of yours, how'd it go?"

Chrysalis puckered her lower lip playfully before saying in a excited tone. "Perfect."

Ellie raised a brow; chuckling, then smirking back at her. "Oh? Do tell."

Chrysalis slowly began to trot back and forth; looking as if she were relishing in the memories. "They wanted to talk with me about attending the Gala simply as one of the special guests. They have so many each year; but it's still so amazing they'd consider me one, you know? I mean; I never thought they'd ever care for me like this Ellie."

Ellie could only feel happy for Chrysalis, her feelings obvious on her face as she stood to her hooves. She hopped off the bed then went over to Chrysalis; smiling at her. "Listen; of course they care for you, just like I do. How can somepony not? You're kind, gentle; and you have a big heart. I'd expect no less from you Chrysalis, I'll be there tonight as well. And guess what? I'm going to be there off duty, so you and I; we're going to hang hmhm." She tapped Chrysalis lightly.

Chrysalis snickered a little before giving an affectionate smile at Ellie, then wrapping her hooves around her. "I'm so happy I met you; I don't know what I'd do without you."

Ellie returned the hug, as well as the compliment. "Likewise you little goof."

Meanwhile in throne room, it seems things weren't looking too swell for both Princesses.

"What do you mean; a dimensional rift spell?" Luna inquired.

Celestia's eyes were wide with horror as they'd just gotten done listening to Bravemane's report. She was still quite speechless while Luna however, was a little more abrupt. She stomped her hoof angrily snarling, then peering down towards the floor. "Can't anything just stay simple anymore!?" She snapped.

Bravemane sighed heavily "Yes; it doesn't please me one bit to be the barer of such bad news your highness. I truly wish I was here on less grim circumstances; but it is indeed true. Somewhere out there, somepony is dabbling with forbidden spells, spells that could have devastating consequences. I'm sure you two already know that however."

Luna looked to Celestia, obviously worried. "Sister, what do you think of this? Who out there could possibly have enough skill to bring forth a dimensional rift? Perhaps a new enemy? We must investigate into this matter."

Celestia gulped; before nodding to her sister. She then looked back at Bravemane with a heavy sigh. "T-Thank you Lieutenant. But, my senses tell me this is not the only troublesome news you bring."

Luna's eyes widened.

Bravemane nodded. "Sadly yes; there is more. You see, on the outskirts of the city, we found tracks."

Celestia raised a brow "Tracks?"

Bravemane nodded once more. "Yes; tracks. Enough to consist of an army, heading straight for Canterlot. Yet we found nothing, no army; only tracks. Perhaps they were planted there for us, to lure us into the dimensional rift spell. We can't really be certain at this point."

Celestia pondered the thought, trotting steadily back and forth with her head lowered. She spoke in a speculative manner "Perhaps; or perhaps not. There is one such race that could pull off such a subterfuge feat. But...."

Luna interrupted; snapping at Celestia. "But nothing sister! They would not dare attack us on our very doorstep. To do so is suicide; not even they are foolish enough to attempt such a thing."

Celestia sighed heavily looking back towards Luna. "I feel you're right sister but- still; I feel there is something off about all this. It doesn't make sense and this time spell is what worries me most. There's something we're missing."

Luna shook her head in disagreement. "Somepony is attempting to throw us off course dear sister. The tracks were obviously a simple trap; a lure for our guards. There are likely more hidden around our borders. We simply need to find whoever's responsible for this and bring him/her to justice. And I doubt they would attempt an assault on us, we decimated them; they would be smart to know their place. At least until our process is finished."

Celestia peered over at Luna solemnly before acknowledging Bravemane with a dismissive nod. "Thank you Bravemane; all I ask of you is to perhaps increase patrols on the outskirts of the city. Watch for anything suspicious, and inform us if you find any traces of spells similar to the first. I'm sorry to have to ask this of you on such an important night; one often known for being a time of relaxation and peace. But we mustn't just ignore this, we must take precautions ourselves."

Bravemane simply smirked; saluting Princess Celestia. "Of course your highness, I'll get right to it, actually; It'd be my honor. Nothing would make me happier then ensuring the safety of my home and Princesses."

Celestia and Luna regarded him with warm smiles as Celestia chuckled "I'm glad to hear it; you're dismissed."

Bravemane smiled as he turned and left the throne room; immediately making his way to prepare the watch for patrols.

Celestia then looked to Luna. "We'll proceed with tonight as usual. But come tomorrow we're joining this investigation personally. I don't want our loyal guards getting thrown into something they can't handle alone."

Luna nodded in agreement "Of course."

The two of them then began to make their way out the throne room as Celestia spoke up once more. "Now let's go get ready; we got a long night ahead of us."

Ellie smiled; amused by Chrysalis's pouting as she was preparing to leave. "Listen; I'll see you tonight alright. I'm just going to go get ready myself. It's no big deal Chrysalis."

Chrysalis puckered her lower lip, lowering her head with a whimper. "Well, I guess that's true. I guess I'll see you later."

Ellie hugged her tightly in an affectionate embrace. They remained there for a brief moment; before looking each other in the eyes with soft smiles. With that Ellie turned to leave the room, she glanced back at Chrysalis "Later Chrysalis."

Chrysalis nodded to her with a soft smile. "Later Ellie."

As Ellie was making her way down the hall; once again, she was stopped by a fellow guard. Thankfully he seemed less frantic unlike last time; and seemed more open to casually discussing the situation. He spoke first "Brightmare ma'am, we have another situation. We'd like you to join us in the following investigation concerning the portal from the other day. It'll require us to tread the outskirts of Canterlot but Lieutenant insisted that we find you for the mission as well."

Ellie groaned; annoyed. "Is this an order?"

The fellow guard shook his head. "No ma'am, It's simply a request."

Ellie gritted her teeth in frustration; she wanted nothing more than to just say no and continue on her way to get ready for the Gala. She wanted today to be about her and Chrysalis. But nonetheless she sighed heavily, turned to look at the fellow guard and simply stated her decision. "Fine; but can we please try to hurry this up? I've got to make it to the Gala later tonight."

The fellow guard saluted, then nodded. "Of course ma'am."

Ellie groaned once again as she just turned to follow the guard as he'd lead her to where Bravemane was waiting with the rest of the Celestial Watch.

The two of them made their way to the outskirts of canterlot. It took them some time to make it there. Ellie couldn't help but feel agonizingly annoyed when she looked up at the sky noticing dusk was creeping in. It was getting late; and while she was out here doing this stupid mission, everypony else was already preparing for the Gala. That means Chrysalis would be all alone while she was out here doing whatever this was. She winced somewhat angrily as she saw in the distance, Bravemane, and the others already waiting. They were investigating further into the matter concerning the portals.

Ellie sighed heavily upon getting to Bravemane. "This really couldn't just wait another day?"

Bravemane smirked looking at Ellie "Listen; that's why I simply requested you come along. I know you were looking forward to attending the Gala this evening; for that I truly sorry for likely ruining your night. But this is also important; listen, we'll try to get this over with as fast as we can so we can all pack up and head home. I myself want to get to the Gala and actually partake in the events. I don't get out often enough these days."

Ellie sighed; followed by yet another groan as she crossed her hooves. Her and Bravemane then started to make their way back to the open field where the first portal had been. Bravemane shrugged. "We decided this would be the most reasonable place to start looking for more portals. We're thinking about heading up and around the borders of Canterlot from here. We'll hopefully find something along the way, what do you think?"

Ellie shrugged; she agreed, but didn't really care about the prospect. "Sure; sounds good. Let's start making our way around then. I just want to hurry this up as fast as I can."

Bravemane seemed humored by her pouting attitude but was still happy to have her. "Alright; let's go then."

Eventually as the day only continued to linger on and on. Luna eventually conducted her daily process of bringing about the night. The hours flew by just like it were any other day and the moon eventually made its way into the sky. The stars laid out beautifully overhead; that dark blue color overlooked the vast landscape. It was another; perfect, beautiful night. As expected of Luna of course. Canterlot also looked beautiful as well. The city lamps and hanging lanterns shined brightly all around, glowing a magnificent yellow hue. The multitude of ponies gathered for the Grand Galloping Gala was massive; and quite a dazzling sight. So many different ponies from different regions all gathered for this one traditional event for their kind. Ponies from Saddle Arabia, from different cities like Manehattan, Fillydelphia, Cloudsdale; ponies from overseas. They all came; one and all, for the Grand Galloping Gala. This was it, the anticipated night had finally arrived.

Chrysalis was trotting back and forth frantically in her room, biting her hooves as she was wearing her dress. She knew this time by heart; thinking about it practically every moment of everyday for the last few days. She usually wasn't even allowed to attend as a guest due to it being too risky. She was usually only allowed to partake in the event as a servant, a pony who served other ponies. But tonight she was a guest; an actual honored guest directly under Princess Celestia and Luna. She couldn't help but feel flustered about the entire thing. She was actually waiting for her friend, Ellie; to arrive. She could use the mare's comforting presence and confident attitude right about now. "Comon Ellie; where are you?"

Chrysalis gulped as she suddenly heard the cheering from the crowd of ponies gathered around in the main area downstairs. Even all the way up from her room she could hear them. The Gala was starting; with or without her. Chrysalis choked down her nervous feelings & disappointment Ellie still wasn't there and just decided to go down to the Gala anyway. She took one last look in the mirror, converting to her pony form and then smiling as she ran her hoof through her mane. She then headed straight for the door, shutting it behind her as she left.

Princess Celestia was gathered atop the staircase as she chuckled. She levitated a wine glass and a spoon, tapping it gently. "Alright alright; simmer down everypony simmer down. Yes, yes; the Grand Galloping Gala, an event adored by all who attend. I'm happy to see so many familiar faces. Well we have a special night planned for everypony tonight, and I have no doubt it will be quite the memorable event for all of us."

Trotting hurriedly was Chrysalis, making her way down the gorgeous corridors and hearing Princess Celestia's voice faintly in the distance. She trotted faster and faster; breathing heavily as she even tripped on her dress at one point. Chrysalis eventually came to a sharp turn; which led to a small pair of sidestairs right down to where Celestia was giving her speech. Chrysalis then halted, not wanting to make a scene as she lowered her head nervously waiting for Celestia to finish so she could join all of them.

Celestia continued to chuckle as she spoke. "Now I don't want everypony to have to listen to my rambling for the entire night. So you all enjoy yourselves as we prepare for later; have fun." With that everypony began to; as usual, begin to talk amongst themselves and explore some more open public areas of the castle. Chrysalis immediately took the chance to enter the room, a crimson blush forming around both her cheeks. But as she did so; there was a throbbing painful sting that surged through her mind. It caused her to wince somewhat in pain "Ouch! W-What?" The pain did not cease, but Chrysalis attempted to block it out. She simply strode over to Celestia hurriedly. "P-Princess! I'm sorry I didn't arrive earlier. I was waiting for somepony."

Celestia's expression lit up as she saw the little changeling. "Oh Chrysalis; there you are. It's good to see you're here, you look quite lovely. Luna is tending to some of the guests; but you'll have the spotlight later so be ready. Now you go enjoy yourself, I'll call for you when I need you."

Chrysalis nodded eagerly, smiling as she went downstairs. Chrysalis winced in pain once again; that throbbing feeling entering her head. Why was she feeling this whay? What was causing this pain? She tried to make sense of its sudden appearance but couldn't find any reasonable answers. Little did she know surrounding her were multiple changelings, blending in with their surroundings; lurking; waiting for the signal even in this moment. Chrysalis felt like she was going to pass out as she trotted around the area. She wanted to have fun and enjoy this night; but her mind wasn't letting her. It was as if there were a throbbing signal in her head that immediately switched on after she'd entered the room.

Chrysalis proceeded about the area as she seemed quite exhausted and depressed. Now words were starting to echo in her mind as she trotted around; sluggishly. It's time to wake up Chrysalis. The voice persisted. It's been too long, now is the time for you to finally wake up. That same familiar voice she'd heard in her dreams so many years ago. What was this; what was going on? Why was this all happening now? As Chrysalis attempted to concentrate she began breathing heavily while she made her way through the multitude of ponies. Suddenly she caught pieces of conversation that made her eyes snap wide. There were ponies talking about, her? No; that was impossible, nopony besides the Princesses knew she existed. But how come she could relate the conversation to her so easily? Chrysalis froze, attempting to listen.

"Yes; that's why they haven't been seen for so long. The Princesses wiped them out long ago."

"Oh good riddance; filthy creatures I must say. They caused trouble all over parts of Equestria in the past."

"Yes to think the Queen believed she could form peace amongst us; that would be quite an unwise decision."

"Yes; they were monsters, and they were put down as such hmhm."

"I can drink to that friend; they say that's what tonight's discussion will concern. You see; there are rumors spreading around that the filthy creatures are actually attempting to re-establish themselves. There have been sightings in the badlands they say. Never got the privilege of catching sight of one myself."

Chrysalis was exhausted; but she knew they were talking about her race. For some reason; she'd usually be more level headed about hearing such words. But tonight; they angered her greatly. The thought of them insulting what she was only caused her to become more infuriated as her head continued to throb. She then began to approach that specific group of ponies but irked in pain as she placed her hoof on her head as it continued to throb. Wake up Chrysalis! No more stalling!

This link, whatever it was; was mentally draining.

Remanining anonymous in a corner were two disguised changelings; waiting. They gritted their teeth angrily as they to heard common chatter concerning their race as well. It was despicable to them; one spoke "These disgraceful creatures mock our ways. They understand nothing brother." The other nodded "Patience; they'll get what's coming to them."

Chrysalis couldn't concentrate any longer. Whatever was causing her to feel this way was in this very room; influencing this negative effect. She felt the feelings stir within her, all these horrid emotions she'd learned to deal with for so long. Why was she feeling them so much now? This undying hatred for her usurpers? No no, they were her saviors. Right? She felt like she wanted to cry, anything to make this pain stop. To make these feelings and thoughts disappear. It was slowly starting to become overwhelming. Her body began to ache as her head simply continued to throb in pain.

Suddenly Celestia tapped Chrysalis softly, but as the changeling turned to face her supposed mentor, Celestia raised a brow curiously, puzzled by the changeling's pained expression. "Chrysalis; are you alright? You look unwell."

Chrysalis smiled softly at her, although it was obvious it was fake and forced. "O-Of course Princess..." The voice in her head boomed once more. Finish her! She has made a fool of you long enough!

Chrysalis was attempting to block out this presence in her mind. She was putting up resistence but; why was she feeling that she actually wanted it to take over. It was as if this entire time; she were setup. That this moment had been a long time coming. These emotions, these feelings; the voice, all coming back to haunt her at this precise time. The time that was supposed to be one of the greatest moments in her life. The day she would finally be accepted amongst the others as an equal. The time she'd be considered a pony, not a monster. The time that her entire life would finally mean something more. No! She wouldn't let this voice, these feelings; ruin everything she'd worked for. She put on a determined face, and followed Celestia to the top of the stairs where the Princess smiled at her as they did so. Princess Celestia once more raised a wine glass to the air; levitating it then tapping it with a spoon. Chrysalis was smirking, she'd do whatever she needed to. Everything would be perfect. Her kind would finally be able to redeem themselves and she'd be able to walk amongst ponies with a smile. Everything would turn out just alright. Just like Ellie said to; she'd be able to do something else with her time, perhaps the two of them could move in together, open up a small shop of sorts. They would be best friends forever, and ponies and changelings would live amongst one another in peace and harmony. The thoughts comforted Chrysalis, and caused the headaches to die down. She stood beside Celestia with a smile, waiting for what the Princess wanted for her to do. Because whatever Celestia had planned; they would do it, together.

Celestia smiled looking over at Chrysalis "Chrysalis; revert to your true form."

Chrysalis's expression sunk. "W-What Princess?"

Luna looked at Chrysalis and Celestia speak atop the stairs from below, she knew what was coming and felt she couldn't bare to look. She sighed heavily lowering her head.

Celestia repeated with a simple smile; muttering to Chrysalis. "Revert....to your true form; now, Chrysalis."

Chrysalis felt confused; flustered, why now? Why here in front of all these ponies that hated her race so intensely? What would that even accomplish? Couldn't she get some time to prepare first? What was the point of doing something that seemed so unnecessary? The Princess was smart; she couldn't truly mean this right? P-Perhaps she was just playing a joke. Chrysalis looked in dismay at the crowd of ponies who were still talking amongst each other down below. She turned to Celestia pleadingly, speaking in a hushed tone. "P-Princess; I don't know- perhaps another time, perhaps- perhaps..w-when, please don't make me do this. I-I know I'm supposed to be ready for something like this. But this is too sudden; I don't know what I'll say. I don't even understand, why must it be now?"

Celestia still kept that same simple smile. "Revert Chrysalis; trust me, this is for the best." Celestia was confident. This was the shock value she spoke of. This was where Chrysalis would finally stand up for what she believed in; everything Celestia had shaped her to become. She would show her changeling pride and defend her kind against all these ponies. She would show them that she had changed for the better and she was willing to do whatever it took in the heat of the moment. This wouldn't be acting, this would be real and defined, something that came from the heart. Celestia knew Chrysalis could do it, no matter how scared she seemed at the time.

Chrysalis was now trembling, tears swelling in her eyes; she muttered "P-Princess." Her lower lip quivered as she felt her confidence waning. She said she'd do anything didn't she? She said she'd finally put an end to this someday; and now was her chance. Then why was this so insurmountably hard? Why did this feel so impossible; so frightening. Chrysalis could feel it in her gut; the headaches, the voice, the fear, everything was built for this moment. Her whole life revolved around this moment and it was much more than just some simple speech to defend herself and her kind. No it would erupt into something much more and she could feel it, but couldn't pertain what exactly. She peered at the ground; trembling, she wanted to run away, to go find her only friend who seemed to truly care about what she wanted. Why hadn't she been more open with her about these things as well, perhaps she could of forseen this situation? But more importantly, why wasn't she here? Chrysalis felt that feeling of dread creep over her once again as she felt like that same filly who was cowering and attempting to hop the wall when she'd first met Celestia.

Chrysalis lowered her frame as Celestia actually seemed to be getting quite annoyed by Chrysalis's failure to comply with her orders. She didn't raise her to be a coward.

"Chrysalis, what're you doing? You were made for this, this is what you're meant to do. Muster up some courage and revert, I demand you." Celestia hated using such a tone of voice and such commanding words, but she knew Chrysalis was up to this. She was ready to finally step out into the open and set everything right with her kind and the ponies. She needed to, it was all on her.

Chrysalis in this moment felt like this truly was the end. That this would be the end of her innocence, the end of her life here in the castle. She couldn't really figure out how or why these feelings felt so certain, but they did; and she just wanted to remain this way for awhile longer. She just wanted to remain this young creature who'd been friends with Elliot Brightmare. Who trained and lived with Princesses. Who was the best at cleaning. Who attended balls and parties. She just wanted to be normal; for a little while longer. Oh how she regretted all those feelings of wanting more, of wanting to be a Princess, of wanting this castle, of wanting so much now. Yes she wanted that sort of life; who wouldn't? She was young; imaginative. She felt this was the end; but not the beginning of something that'd lead to peace and harmony. But something catastrophic and brutal, more violence, hatred, and war. It was as if she could just feel the dark grim future baring down on her shoulders and she couldn't prove its existence; but she knew it was there. She felt a single tear roll down her cheek as she stood firmly to all four hooves. She put on a brave determined face looking to Princess Celestia with a simple nod; then turning to face the crowd.

Celestia smiled, satisfied with Chrysalis's sudden obedience then called out to everypony once again "Attention everypony, attention! I'd like to show you something."

All eyes were then fastened on the young changeling as she simply looked down at them solemnly.

Chrysalis's world slowed as the voice in her head spoke once more. It's time.

Then Chrysalis, reverted to her original, true form.

Somewhere in a large spacious chamber; somepony or something grinned. It's familiar appearance masked in shadow as it snapped its claws. That same smooth; yet comedic voice. He spoke simply.

"Lights, Camera, Action."

Ellie's expression; It wasn't hard to describe what she was feeling, we'd all seen it before. That expression of shock, realization, once again they found something; something she didn't expect, not by a long shot. Ellie couldn't find the words, she was frozen, was there truly anyway to describe such an insane prospect? They were standing once again on the outskirts of Canterlot, a little further west from the city. Ellie looked up in the distance towards the city, where everything came to light. Even in this black night, she could see; see the horrifying plan somepony had prepared for their precious city. There was a thick blue line of magical essence outlining the borders of Canterlot and stretching miles down. It wasn't a obvious line as if somepony painted it on the ground, no; it took a good eye and you had to know what you were searching for. There was a trail of sparks, and Ellie knew exactly what it meant.

Her expression sank dramatically as the rest of guard were curious to what had the mare so frightened. Bravemane approached, looking to her with grim curiosity. "E-Ellie; what's wrong, what is it?"

Ellie shook her head, she felt she still couldn't speak. She looked to Bravemane; shaking her head, she spoke in a hushed tone, as if it took much effort just to finally say what she'd wanted. "We, we have to warn the Princesses."

Bravemane raised a brow. "Warn them? Warn them about what?"

Ellie snapped, stomping a hoof in anger. "We have to get everypony out of the city now!"

VREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEM!

Suddenly it sounded like a siren had gone off around them. Everypony immediately became alert in the area as they turned towards the direction of the booming sound; which seemed to come from the veiled forest. A piercing light was practically blinding them as Bravemane yelled "On Guard!"

Everypony drew their spears as suddenly striking from the forest without hesitation, was a multitude of creatures who seemed to be possessed by rage and bloodlust. Ranging from bears to deers, from hawks to boars; they all attacked the Celestial Watch on sight, as if it were their sole mission to destroy them. Chaos erupted as the entire guard was locked in battle, puzzled and confused to why these familiarly passive creatures were suddenly attacking them. Their eyes were a blood red and they'd seemed like they weren't themselves. Bravemane snarled as he blocked with his spear, fending off a bear "Ellie what the buck is going on!?"

Ellie was busy herself; casting up defensive spells as she shook her head. "I-I don't know! I didn't expect this!" Ellie's heart sank, she was in pain. She wanted to hurry as fast as she could and get back to Canterlot. Something weird was going on and deep inside, she could feel Chrysalis needed her. If only she'd decided to stay behind today; no, that wasn't the way to think about things, without her they wouldn't have found the horrifying truth. But now it seemed they were too late, they'd been ambushed, by rage possessed dwellers of the forest. This was beyond them, beyond anything they expected. They were simply pawns in a chess game, and the king of the enemy side had them right where he wanted them. Ellie gritted her teeth angrily, her expression worsened, saddened, grief struck. Chrysalis.

Ellie was thinking much about her friend at this moment. She thought about the time when she'd first seen her; that sad mare, scrubbing the castle floors. Chrysalis wore a smile, yet; her eyes, held a deep sense of remorse, of pain and sadness, sadness Ellie wanted to take away for good. How come in the midst of battle she felt like she'd failed, failed to be there for her, no; it wasn't over yet. They'd make it out of this and get back to Canterlot. They had to.

Bravemane led the charge as he moved his fellow guards east, they would find a way out of this mess and back into the city. He let off a mighty roar as the rest of them followed, the Pegasi took to the skies, some of them managing to head straight for Canterlot on Bravemane's orders. Being unicorns they had to take the long way, but it's not like they'd go down easily.

Ellie gritted her teeth. Wait for me Chrysalis, I'm coming!

As Chrysalis stood there; her solemn expression remained. She simply looked down at the ponies who simply stared right back at her. Many of them had hushed gasps as they began to mutter amongst one another.

One of them looked up at Chrysalis with disgust; actually stating it softly to herself. "Disgusting..."

Soon the crowd erupted into outrage, yelling at Chrysalis; shouting obscene things at her. She remained silent as the tears streamed down her cheeks, the words truly hurt.

"MONSTER!"

"BEAST!"

"CRETIN!"

But were they truly to blame? They were the victims afterall.

Chrysalis knew this was probably the part where she should defend herself. Where she should yell and scream in defiance, get their attention and attempt to convince them that she'd changed for the better. That's probably what Celestia wanted and was expecting of her at any moment; but the passion wasn't there. As she listened to these 'ponies' continue to spout their concerns about her; insult her, she felt she didn't want to earn their respect. Their tones of voices, the way they spoke to her, their hatred ran deep, to the core. Simply looking down at their expressions, she could see, one of her couldn't make a difference; and even if it could, she'd spend her whole life doing so. She winced at them; their words becoming faint in her mind as that familiar voice echoed in her head once again. Who are they to you Chrysalis? She thought about it, why should she waste her life earning the respect of these individuals.

Celestia left her alone afterall. Alone to these dogs to fend for herself. Even after she promised they'd do this together. But what was the point anyhow? Was this what all her hard work was for? To attempt to defend herself when she was ready, with no certainty that everything would actually go the way she wished it. This was why she lived amongst them for so long? This is why she was trapped in the dungeons? These were the ponies her kind was slaughtered for?

Suddenly, those words sparked in her mind. Those very words Discord said to her so long ago down in the dungeons. They made the changeling smirk somewhat; she felt, satisfied by the thought.

Oh, you will try, but you will come to realize these ponies, they shun things such as us. You cannot earn their acceptance, you will only find chaos down such a path, chaos and grief. But it doesn't have to be all bad, you see i've come to accept what I am, be grateful for it, I have powers beyond their wildest dreams, it matters not what such primitive creatures think.

As Chrysalis continued to listen to the outraged ponies below, the tears soon stopped flowing. So this is what it took hm? This mass multitude of gathered ponies in order to treat her like trash in order for her to come to some sort of realization. As she peered over at Celestia; she noticed even Celestia's expression worsened as her 'precious subjects' would not even give the changeling a chance to speak. That no matter what she said they'd never accept her for generations to come. Celestia looked at Chrysalis, as if lost, and unaware with what to do about all this.

Chrysalis smirked. Suddenly a voice rang out from below.

"OUR BELOVED PRINCESS LIVES!"

Chrysalis's eyes widened as did everypony elses. Somepony spoke out, overpowering the voices of the crowd below. His voice sounded raspy like some sort of insect and seemed familiar to the young changeling. As that one pony approached, tears filled his eyes as he shoved his way through the crowd. Chrysalis simply looked down at him, confused. He continued his approach but stopped at the bottom of the stairs, he certainly was the center of attention. He couldn't help but smile up at Chrysalis, as if fascinated by her very presence; relishing in it, it was obvious on his features he was filled with love.

"We thought you were dead!"

Suddenly another pony spoke out, replying to the infatuated stallion who stood before Celestia and Chrysalis. "You fool! You were supposed to wait for the signal!"

The stallion snapped back at his fellow "To hell with the signal! Do you not see!? Our princess lives!"

Celestia and Luna's eyes widened as it took them a brief moment to grasp the severity of the situation. These were no ponies; and they weren't referring to either of them when they said Princess. They were referring to Chrysalis! Celestia caught Luna's gaze for a single, defining; moment. As suddenly Chrysalis erupted into a piercing cry.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!"

It was a torturous violent sound; which caused almost everypony to cover their ears. Chrysalis's pain, this infatuated pony; his words, this entire situation, triggered something within her. She fell to the floor, continuing to scream as she held her head in pain. She cried out in agony as her mind felt like It'd been lit aflame. Chrysalis felt the hunger swelling up inside her uncontrollably, It wouldn't be pushed down any longer. Her mind also felt like a empty book suddenly being filled with a massive amount of knowledge, knowledge and memories. Her world went dark.

Chrysalis awoke in world of pure white. She looked around; and it seemed like here, the pain had ceased. Chrysalis still couldn't remember anything about her past; but she knew, that would all end soon.

Chrysalis looked to her left, standing off in the distance was what appeared to be; her? There was another version of herself, this one seemed older, more experienced; darker. She smirked at the younger Chrysalis, sinisterly. She raised a hoof as an almost welcoming gesture. "It doesn't have to end you know. Things can still go in the other direction."

Chrysalis took the hint, as she turned around to see another version of herself. This one seemed more kind and gentle; yet broken and abused. This was the Chrysalis she was familiar with, this was who she was currently.

The darker Chrysalis then chuckled; humored as she raised a brow. "Well; whatever you decide, It's about time you woke up from this silly dream of yours."

Chrysalis winced at her darker half, somewhat annoyed. "Who are you?"

The darker Chrysalis blinked before smiling softly at her. "I'm you of course. You've hidden me away for quite some time. But it seems; with the right influence, you're finally coming to accept me. It was always meant to be this way Chrysalis; you and I as one. Hmhm, think of me as the accumulation of all your true feelings, your subconscious if you will."

Chrysalis then turned once more to look at her broken self; who just gave her a soft smile, speaking in a hushed tone. "You don't have to go down this road Chrysalis, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, they care for you. Elliot Brightmare, cares for you. Life doesn't have to be hopeless, grim, or dark. Together; we can have that life you dreamed of, you just have to choose this path. The path that fights for friendship, love, and peace."

Chrysalis looked at both of them; pondering the thought. She then sighed heavily, speaking impatiently "Will you two show me my memories?"

The darker Chrysalis grinned. "Of course."

With that, her world went black again as the darker Chrysalis's words lingered.

It's time you learned, what it means to be a changeling. Next Chapter: Chapter 9: Changeling Estimated time remaining: 1 Hour, 60 Minutes