Ain't Never Had Friends Like Us @aintneverhadfriendslikeus - Tumblr Blog

As mentioned in the post I did on the 6th about the anniversary of the blog. I am introducing a new timeskip. This time to the future depicted in the series finale, The Last Problem. The previous timeskip related to the Earnest Empathetic Change was only by an additional 10 years. This will add another 15 years on top of that for a total of 25 years after the Ending of the End. With the Mane 6 in their late 40s/50s. There won’t be an accompanying story like Earnest Empathetic Change was for the previous time skip. This is simply a look at what’s similar and different from the canon timeskip from the show

Though before I get to the The Last Problem. I’m going to try to briefly recap the important bits of everything leading up to this. Talking about the 2 previous eras.

I DREAM OF TWILIGHT SPARKLE (AKA How Twilight became a genie) [Between Seasons 2 & 3] + RETURN TO SADDLE ARABIA [Between Seasons 4 & 5] + SECRETS OF THE DRAGON'S TEAR [Shortly after Ending of the End]

This for the most part is the era takes takes place during or something between seasons of the canon show. This is of course the most documented part of the blog so I’ll try not to be too descriptive. But a good majority of the blog’s history goes from all the way from after Season 2 all the way to a year or so after The Ending of the End. As for actual show events, most of the general ideas remains the same (Twilight still becomes a princess, the same villains show up, the School of Friendship still happens, etc.). Although there are important differences here and there. Some of which are explored more further in smaller one-shot stories.

Secrets of the Dragon’s Tear introduced the most important lore bits that have impacted the blog’s future since. Up to and including revealing that an older-than-canon Sunset (The Equestria Girls movies are not canon to I Dream of Twilight Sparkle too) that was never evil who had lost her life to Cozy Glow’s family. And of course the ability of Spike’s dragon tear that he received at the end of Return to Saddle Arabia to summon spirits of the deceased. Revealing many secrets that only the dead could tell.

EARNEST EMPATHETIC CHANGE (10 Years after Ending of the End)

With Equestria in an ever increasing era of peace. It was time to attempt at closing off another loose end that had impacted events in Equestria before any of the Mane 6 were born. Starlight was tasked to speak with Queen Chrysalis, and receiving gradual help from each of her many friends. While using her experience as a counselor and a principal of the School of Friendship to reach an understanding with a queen to thaw her seemingly ice cold heart.

Through careful talks and gentle pushes. Starlight and Chrysalis slowly began to see there was more in common between them then either had thought possible. Even as things looked hopeless when Chrysalis found out Sunset Shimmer, the one she has blamed for years for the deaths of her previous hive was Starlight’s late mother. Starlight still stood strong in backing Chrysalis nearly to the point of letting Chrysalis kill her, if Chrysalis feels she can’t forgive her because of a blood relation to who she saw as her eternal enemy.

Using the Spirit summoning ability. Chrysalis would get to speak with Sunset to get a sense of the real her. Though even as the obvious disconnect between Sunset and Chrysalis’ point of view on the tragic day that destroyed her previous hive. It takes the use of time travel (In context, time travel works similarly to Dragonball Z’s style. It only creates a new timeline, doesn’t affect the current one) for Chrysalis to see the truth point blank.

Chrysalis would afterward get to speak with the spirits of her siblings and her parents. The reunion with the spirits of her family, along with the return of newfound friends finally lets Chrysalis receive the same change Thorax and many of the new hive achieved. And it wasn’t just Chrysalis who changed that day, this was also Starlight’s last test before ascending to Princesshood.

With a new pair of royal “sisters” and Queen Chrysalis now firmly an ally. The harmony in Equestria became ever stronger.

THE LAST PROBLEM (25 Years after the Ending of the End)

Now… we fast forward to what was the show’s canon time skip. As mentioned before, this is another 15 years added on top of the previous timeskip. 25 years after Ending of the End. The Mane 6 in their late 40’s/Early 50’s

For the most part, the episode would play out the same but I thought it’d be important to layout important differences. Although one thing I should probably consider is maybe the goodbye flashback scenes aren’t as dramatic. Since Twilight’s genie powers (Not to mention the portal gum) makes it pretty easy for Twilight and her friends to quickly visit each other within seconds if truly needed. That’s not to say there isn’t any hesitancy and/or worries about Twilight leaving Ponyville to rule Equestria from Canterlot. They'd still decide to travel together in the end as they do, and maybe even a little group hug cry. But there's less concern about their friendship drift apart as they spend less time together. They have more capability of reaching out to eachother faster even from long distances.

PRINCESS TWILIGHT SPARKLE AND SPIKE

(Just pretend for a moment Twilight still has her genie attire in this screenshot)

Twilight of course remains Ponyville’s benevolent leader alongside her adopted family Starlight and Spike (Sister and son, respectively). By this point, Twilight regularly takes the form of a more Celestia-shape as seen in the episode. Although she did have to study Starlight’s growth in order to replicate it as best she could. Her smaller stature from 25 years ago remains her “true” form so to speak. If she ever needs to feel more approachable, she'll sometimes shift to her more normal pony size. And sometimes she may also do the same thing if/when her friends are feeling particularly nostalgic.

Spike at this point is still the only dragon with a dragon tear capable of summing spirits. But Twilight, Starlight, and Spike are preparing for the day a genuine Dragon tear appears. So that one day Spike can entrust and teach dragons the responsibilities of using the dragon tears. Just as the right ponies are entrusted to become genies. So are the right dragons to wield Dragon tears as spirit summoners. It’s also negotiated with Sultan Theandri II and Sultana Moondancer for the day that Saddle Arabia seeks the return of more genies. to slowly restore the ancient culture they once had.

LUSTER DAWN

The first significant difference (At least, from fanon expectations) I should talk about is Luster Dawn. In the IDOTS universe, she is the daughter of Sunburst and Sunshine Smiles. The popular fanon I understand is that she’s Starlight and Sunburst’s daughter. However, the changes from as early in the timeline as Secret of the Dragon’s Tear makes that impossible (…Or at least pretty squicky to think about) since the two are cousins due to Sunset being old enough to be both Starlight’s mother, and Sunburst’s Aunt. She is thus still related to both Starlight and Sunburst. Just not in the same way as the more common fanon depictions.

Also while I don’t know if it’s clear or not what kind of student Luster Dawn is to Twilight. She could be on the road to being groomed to be another Alicorn ruling by Twilight’s side in the canon universe as I doubt Twilight’s retiring that early. And there is an open spot should Twilight decide another alicorn in Canterlot is needed. But naturally in the IDOTS universe, she already has Luster’s own aunt in that role. What she ends up doing is as much a mystery as anything else. (And I doubt G5 is going to get into whatever Luster Dawn did if any season that takes place after the G4 movie even applies to it’s history) But my guess she has a more normal life. Better at magic than her father, but also not the prodigy either Sunset, Twilight, or Starlight were at her age.

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

Starlight: SINCE WHEN COULD BANANAS WAIL LIKE THIS?!?!

((Just in time for spoop month!

Featuring an ask from @askbananapie))

#genie twilight #starlight glimmer #sunset shimmer

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

Twilight: Did I forget to mention this? Apologies, but yes! Just a few years ago, Sultan Theandri and Sultana Elona stepped down to allow their son Prince Theandri the 2nd and Moondancer to take the throne at around the same time they were ready to be wed. Their wedding ceremony was twofold. Them being wed in mutual matrimony, along with their coronation.

I obviously went to see it, I wasn't going to miss the wedding of one of my oldest friends after all. And even from a Princess perspective, it's good diplomacy to witness new leaders grow into their role.

I can tell the citizens of Saddle Arabia absolutely adore Moondancer. She might be even more popular then I am over there by now! And that says a lot when I'm a genie!

But I'm proud of Moondancer, she looks so much happier and in her element.

I always look forward to seeing her alongside her husband again

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

Starlight: Clearly, you couldn’t have simply gotten my surname mistaken and just happened to use my mother’s surname coincidentally...

Sunset: Um, dear… I think that’s exactly what happened

((Oddly prophetic ask, ay? That ask had been sitting around a while. It's now pretty hilarious in hindsight now.))

#genie twilight #starlight glimmer #sunset shimmer

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

((Now that Earnest Empathetic Change is over, thought it'd be properly show what's the most obvious change (That I can show anyway, as unfortunately a look at the reformed Chrysalis is likely not within my spriting capabilities)

Now in the timeskip, Starlight has ascended into a princess after she successfully brings Chrysalis in good graces with Equestria. And is recognized as growing into Luna's role as the younger of the two royal sisters. I should of course make it clear that this is an adopted sisterhood. Much like how Celestia adopted Cadence as a niece. I am not saying Starlight is like a long lost sister-by-blood. The only way that makes sense is if Twilight Velvet had a fling with Firelight that ended up giving birth to Starlight (Or if Night Light had a fling with whoever Starlight's canon mother is and Firelight either adopted Starlight all the same or never knew Starlight was never his daughter by blood). Which might be interesting takes for a story to go for (If it hasn't already been done). But we've already well established that isn't the case here.

But a huge point that's been a theme of I Dream of Twilight Sparkle for very long. Is an adopted family relationship can be just as valid as one by blood. As that's how it's been with Twilight & Spike's mother-son relationship ever since the blog was only 1 year old.

Also, fun fact... I named the story Earnest Empathetic Change to play off of Magical Mystery Cure's acronym of MMC of simply rotating the (lower case) m into an E ;) ))

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

The first few days of living in Ponyville indeed proved to be a struggle for Chrysalis. Though for entirely different reasons then she expected it to be. Not a single one of the ponies looked scared, they were jovial to her just as if she was any other visitor to the town.

It kinda drove her mad inside, were the ponies so forgiving they just forgot all she did in the years she spent plotting against Equestria? Did they forget that her very statue was a reminder of the evil she was for over a decade? Maybe it was still the remaining part of her villainous ego talking, like she had to be feared at some level still.. It could also be partly guilt, as if she doesn’t deserve to be treated this nicely by nearly all the average citizens.

She'd talk to Starlight about it, who would recall that she went through the same thing. Everypony knew she traveled through time. Yet, the only ones to really mention it was when she was being ribbed in a joking manner by Rainbow Dash or Trixie.

Starlight also explained that they shouldn't forget that Equestria has diversified more in the past decade. Many species have come and gone through Ponyville, including a great number of dragons of all sizes. Even for a major former villain such as herself, she's now just one of many changelings that have stayed for some time in Ponyville.

She'd awkwardly try to winghug Chrysalis as she's still getting used to the new wings. And advise Chrysalis to relax, just as Celestia suggested. Also saying that if it would help, she should mingle around with certain ponies in the days and weeks ahead before the coronation. She asks her to spend a day or more with each of Twilight and her friends. Along with some of Starlight's own set of friends. The more time Chrysalis is in Ponyville, the more comfortable she'll be. Starlight even promises to accompany her the whole way.

Chrysalis had no qualms about spending some time with Applejack, she actually feels it's a good idea to be around the humble farmer so she can begin to relax into her new life. Plus, she still feels like she owes a lot to her for when Applejack almost made the ultimate sacrifice for her hive. Though she is curious about what Starlight intends the visit schedule to be. Starlight responded that it was Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, then Pinkie.

Gears turn in Chrysalis' mind and she quickly realizes that's the exact reverse order of the lessons she had. She wonders if that was all coincidence, or if that was the plan from the start. She shakes her head however, and agrees to spend some time at Sweet Apple Acres the next day.

When Chrysalis arrives at Sweet Apple Acres, she's greeted with the homey breakfast of not just the food they had available. But all the love that was around the farm between family, and especially the lovers. Chrysalis even gets to see the beauty that was the intertwined trees that were memorials to Pear Butter and Bright Mac. She'd have her best day yet in Ponyville at the farm. She could for once forget the troubles of her past and see the value of the way Applejack and her family live their life everyday. She could very well see that at least in terms of the Apple Family, they were as tight knit as the Royal Changeling family is supposed to be. And she couldn't help but dream of how she'll change up her ruling style once she's back in a throne at the hive. No more preparing for invasions and war, not that she'll go ever too soft. As she'll certainly train with Pharynx on the track. But it'll be night and day compared to how her rule was before.

The next day turned out to be quite an exciting one for Chrysalis. It’d be the first day of Starlight’s flight training with Rainbow Dash, they’d get Spike to summon Spur & Arista once more, and Ocellus would drop by as well. Spur himself is excited to be able to race alongside Chrysalis again, and meet a new challenger in Rainbow Dash, all while helping the new princess gradually learn to fly with her wings. Arista and Ocellus sat down together as spectators, cheering everyone on.

When struggling, Starlight would often instinctively use her self-levitation spell to catch herself. Though most times she did, Rainbow flew up and tapped on her horn to make sure Starlight only relies on it to stop herself from getting hurt. Rainbow Dash coaches her by telling her that eventually she’s going to have to get the confidence needed to maintain flight. Chrysalis would be a helpful model for Starlight to get the right wing movements, as she transforms into a double of Starlight’s new alicorn body. Starlight can thus study Chrysalis’ wing movements. Chrysalis has been in the shape of many different winged creatures, so the nuances of how each type of wings work is valuable to Starlight’s training.

Starlight doesn’t quite get it perfect by the end of the day, but she knew it’d take more than that to eventually master her control of flight. She looks forward to working more with Rainbow and Chrysalis until she can at least get close to Twilight’s speed and control.

Eventually, Chrysalis would find herself at Rarity's, the unicorn more than eager to get something made for the newly transformed changeling. Sweetie Belle had also been there as well. While Rarity insisted on making a dress for Chrysalis, Sweetie thought it might be better if Chrysalis had something for the upcoming tour, having taken the offer seriously to have Chrysalis join her band. Though Chrysalis did talk Sweetie down to doing just one initial show first, see if she can even handle the sound. The clothing issue however would end up in a bit of a heated sibling argument, with Chrysalis in the middle. In a weird way, the arguing gave Chrysalis a bit of nostalgia, she'd recall the silly arguments that she once had with her siblings. After hearing the two sisters go back and forth, Chrysalis suggested a dress that also works for the metal band. Something both sisters actually agreed on when they finally thought it through. Chrysalis was never one for fancy clothing anyway, the last time she even wore a dress publicly was when she'd posed as Cadence. So to have something a little more rough around the edges fit her perfectly.

From there, she'd head over to Fluttershy's, bringing Twilight and Starlight as well.

It generally started peacefully, Spike even was there to summon the spirits of many pets. Including Chrysalis' own Spira and Starlight's Equala. Here, Starlight's new kitten Flare got to meet Equala. The little cat and the odler spirit cat would look at eachother rather inquisitively. Equala's hairs raised on the spirit cat's back. Flare is a bit more playful and tries to pounce on Equala, though just falling through. Equala even seeming to laugh at the kitten's misfortune. Flare huffing in response to the elder cat's spirit.

Fluttershy of course reminding Starlight that it takes a little while for cats to get used to one another. But given they're just playing right now, the two should be good friends soon enough.

Chrysalis does ,emtopm though that this is one occasion where she's glad Spira had already been long dead in a weird way. As if she still had Spira while Equala was at the hive, she might have eaten the poor little hamster. That's not a worry with spirits since the spirits don't need to eat. Losing all sense of hunger, even if some pony spirits have noted they miss being able to taste.

As nice as the moment with the pets were however, Chrysalis knew that at any moment Discord would try to mess with her during this visit, but she already knew what to do. The plan that they'd all come up with back at the hive was now taking place. Thanks to the combination of Twilight and Starlight's magic along Chrysalis' transformations, the moment she walked into Fluttershy's home, Discord nearly had a heart attack seeing what he had thought was Cosmos, for the first time in a long time… he was fully taken by surprise and somewhat shaken. He was so panicked that he fled back to his distorted dimension for the time being. They all share a laugh, finally able to pull one over on him. The rest of the visit was quite peaceful, Angel Jr. didn't leave Chrysalis' side for the entire duration. For Chrysalis this new life was so much slower, confusing… but it was nice too.

By the time she'd gone to visit Pinkie she could clearly see both her and Cheese moving a mile a minute trying to plan the coronation for Starlight. Though she also got to experience more of Pinkie's strange abilities since she'd been standing one moment and then found herself sitting in a booth the next, followed by a plate of sweets even though she hadn't even asked for anything or even got to say hello. She just saw a pink blur. It was definitely not something she was used to and felt so baffled by such a thing. During all this, she could also feel something in the air, a very powerful love coming off the two party ponies. Pinkie would send Cheese away to go get something and when the coast was clear, she'd reveal to Chrysalis that she's also planning to propose to him. Going so far to ask how she should go about it. Chrysalis was surprised that out of anypony that Pinkie could've asked, she came to her. Chrysalis tried to give her best guess on how to go about it since even though she consumed love, it's not like she'd ever been in love. Though she suggested something big and flashy since they both loved spectacle. The moment Pinkie rushed away to plan that, Cheese had come back and then… he told her the exact same thing, that he too wanted to propose to Pinkie. Chrysalis barely had done anything with them yet she'd never been more exhausted.

It was a strange feeling to be getting so much love all at once and so willingly. All these years, she thought she wanted exactly that, but she never knew how tiring it could all be, this new status quo was such a departure from what she was used to. Now she was genuinely appreciating the moments of silence and solitude she'd get upon returning home. Life was just so different now and there were definitely times that she just felt so out of place. Something she brought up to Starlight, but this too was something she'd been through herself. Chrysalis was definitely glad to have someone who can relate.

Next up, Chrysalis got to go see Princess Twilight herself in Canterlot. She walks the rooms that she had once invaded, there's even a fair share of awkward glances when they reach the steps in which Chrysalis banished Twilight when she was still a unicorn to the Crystal Catacombs where she was holding Cadence prisoner.

She could see however how much Twilight has matured as a leader over the years. Twilight certainly has not had the longevity that Celestia has had yet. But Chrysalis could see the influence she had been on her former student as she carries about herself in this role. Though she knows Twilight has enough differences from Celestia. As if she were exactly like her, they'd probably simply have tea and cakes together.

Chrysalis asks if there's maybe some sort of activity Twilight hasn't done in a while that might spice things up. Something only Twilight can do. The genie princess thinks on it after a while, before falling on an idea. Although, she isn't sure if Chrysalis would be ok with it.

She asks if Chrysalis had ever heard of something called a genie simulation. Chrysalis was never around Twilight long enough before to know what this entails so she asks for her to explain. Twilight telling her about it's a way for any willing test subject to feel what it's like to be a genie but without the responsibilities of gaining all that power from it. Chrysalis scoffs a little, as if to say what's the point of feeling like a genie if there isn't any power to gain. Twilight simply hints that she'd be surprised.

It was one way to make this visit unique however, so she let's Twilight try it. Chrysalis would immediately upon Step 1 gain an attire much like Twilight's and her own vessel. She actually kind of likes the way they accentuate herself. Though the next step is when it gets weird. Chrysalis panicked slightly as she started floating up in the air and her hip on downwards merged into smoke. Though when the mist that used to be her legs touched the bottle's entrance. A sensation unlike any other changed everything. She quickly realized how Twilight could enjoy needing a vessel despite the obvious downsides of a once-villain such as her being able to capture her by simply getting the bottle while she was still inside.

For Chrysalis, this stage of the simulation was like a massage unlike any other. It only felt better and better the more she was pulled in. She'd thank Twilight for the experience as things almost finish up.

When Twilight ends the simulation and Chrysalis heads back to the Ponyville castle, Starlight would see her in such a dreamy good mood. And winks as she only asks one question:

Starlight: ...Genie simulation, heh?

Chrysalis would be blushing a bit, trying to hide her enjoyment after being called out, but there was no real way to hide such a delighted smile.

Chrysalis: H-hmph! I wasn't going to say no to at least seeing what I'd look like! It was an... interesting experience I won't soon forget...

She would occasionally transform herself into the genie version she'd become during the simulation, ...although she made sure she only did it when by herself.

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

Chrysalis stared in awe, so much has happened in what was still less than just the past 48 hours.

Finding out a true afterlife exists along with the miraculous revelation that spirits of the deceased were summonable

The identity of Starlight's mother being who she once thought was her family's murderer

The subsequent chaos and raw emotion as she nearly gave in to her anger and destroyed her new hive.

The depressive thoughts and the nightmare she had, thinking there was no place for her in this world

Speaking with the spirit of Sunset Shimmer

Time traveling and preventing the very tragedy that shaped her life in a new universe. And realizing Sunset was never at fault at all for what happened. Along with the betrayal she felt as she saw that her own brother was the real culprit, someone she may have once trusted more than anyone.

And now... here they were. the Arista and Spur she knew, loved.... and lost.... until now.

She felt like almost breaking down and crying right there. The only thing preventing her from doing so, is she wanted to look strong in front of not just the spirits of her siblings, but also her new hive, and her royal children. There were still some habits taught by Tarsus that Chrysalis had a hard time shaking, such as feeling that crying tears in front of her subjects is a sign of weakness.

Starlight realizing this approaches closer to Chrysalis, she gently smiles and looks in her eyes before whispering

Starlight: It's ok... you should have this moment to let it all go. Shedding tears is more powerful than you can imagine, after all... it was Spike's tear that brought them here in the first place.

Chrysalis looked at her siblings, even though she'd just seen a version of them not long ago. Those two weren't the ones she lost, it was a joy to see them alive but… they weren't hers. But seeing her timeline's Arista and Spur, stunned her to silence for a moment. She was barely holding it together. She was covering her mouth, her breaths were shaky. Her body trembled as she tried to think of something, anything to say. And that's when Starlight told her that it was okay to cry...

Chrysalis: A-Arista... Spur... I...

She could barely choke out their names before falling to her knees and crying. She was so overwhelmed by just the sight of them, any plans of what she wanted to say, what she thought she could say, all went out the window. She was able to truly see the family that she'd been mourning for all these years. She didn't care anymore about appearing weak right now, she was just so overcome with emotion, sadness for how things ended between them, but also joy in having the ability to see them again. To hear their voices one more time.

Chrysalis: I… I missed you both so much... there's so much I want to tell you... I-I...

So many years worth of tears that she'd bottled up were coming out and she couldn't stop it anymore, and that's when she felt her siblings hug her,

There's just a peaceful silence that is sometimes broken by emphatic gasps and d'awwws from the crowd of changelings. It wasn't that long ago that Chrysalis put them all in danger, but many of them knew Chrysalis through her ups and downs. And this is the first time they can truly see the pain she's been keeping bottled up all along.

Meanwhile, the reuniting hug between Chrysalis and her lost siblings seems to last forever at least for her. It's an embrace she had not felt in so long, the spirits of her siblings were just as warm as they had been when they were alive. They weren't cold as she may have suspected a spirit would be, it helps comfort her more that it was truly them.

Eventually, the silence is broken by none other than Chrysalis' sister.

Arista: There will be plenty of time to talk about everything on your mind, sis... let's just enjoy this moment. We're aware that our deaths left a huge hole in your heart, and it's Tarsus we can ultimately blame for anything terrible you did afterward.

Spur: Speaking of which, we should probably confirm to you... yes, Tarsus laid the trap for nearly the entire hive. By the time we realized it, The lava flow engulfed us mere seconds later. Even I was not fast enough to get away.

I wish I could say I was surprised, but deep down... I did wonder if Tarsus had the cold heart to do something like that... to his own kind... to his own family... and he did this all while manipulating and tearing our hive apart slowly...

It still peeves me off... if only I had acted on my impulses earlier and challenged him more directly then I did...

Spur's spirit just about stomps the ground, or at least stomps the best he can as a spirit, thinking about his older brother that caused so much pain. Arista walks on over to Spur's side to put a hoof on his shoulder though.

Arista: There will also be plenty of time to vent about Tarsus' role. But we should focus on some happier turn of events. Like sis, why don't you introduce us to your new hive. I'm quite eager to meet all the new nephews and nieces I have!

Chrysalis still wept as they spoke. She was so glad that they didn't even blame her for what happened, they still loved her. It made her feel… warm inside. As if a still cold part of her heart was finally thawing. It felt so strange… but in a good way. She stood up and wiped her face.

Chrysalis: Believe me, I know very well what Tarsus did. In another time, we prevented that tragedy from occurring. But… I agree with Arista. We can talk about it later.

She knows that might go over their heads for right now, but she and the others will explain it to them when they can. She then looked back to her three children and gestured for them to come over.

Chrysalis: Arista, Spur… these are m-my royal children… our s-successors… Ocellus, Pharynx… and Thorax. I'm sure their appearance along with the rest of the changelings might seem… slightly off to you. But… they do take on an appearance that is somewhat similar to how we used to be… whole anyway.

This is quite the admission for her to make, it seems she realizes that the forms the changelings take on now is where they as a species should be. The three younger changeling royals look at their Aunt and Uncle in awe, as they'd never even seen a picture of them before. They could tell there's a kindness about them that radiated from their spirits.

The three leaders could also get a taste of the love between Chrysalis and her siblings. And the bittersweet taste that was there for Applejack and her parents, as well as Starlight and Sunset.

It's Ocellus who steps forward first.

Ocellus: H-h-h-hi, I... can tell just how much Mom missed the both of you... but it's a pleasure to get to meet you both for the first time! You must have so many fascinating stories.

Arista nods

Arista: It will be nice to get to share all we can tell about our past. You must have some stories of your own to tell us too, though. I'd very much like to explore the present time and learn details that aren't as easy to ascertain from up there.

Looking at Arista and Ocellus right now, Chrysalis could almost see a mirror image between the two. Both kind, studious changelings from different generations. Yet so much alike.

Ocellus: I... don't suppose it'd be ok if I called you... Aristaunt?

The spirit giggles at the slight pun

Arista: I'd be perfectly alright with that, as long as I in return can call you Ocelliece~

Ocellus beams

Ocellus: Deal!

Then the two royal changelings, separated by the plane between the living and dead until now, share their first hug as a blood-related family. Two family members that Chrysalis particularly cared about were bonding for the first time right in front of her.

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

((An old ask I just realized I can finally have a real answer to. I think this ask was literally about a decade old, heh

Thought I'd give it the proper respect with some visualization though. I apologize that's become somewhat rare for me now outside of Geniequestria's images. I'm almost done though with what may be the true last large-sized story. Maybe, just maybe. More sprite-using responses can return soon

It's a shame though that 15.ai seems to have shut down. Unless the person behind it is just doing another annoyingly-long hiatus with it. But there's no news about it either way, so we can't tell))

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

When the spirit of Sunset is summoned down, it's almost like how she'd imagined in her nightmare… except, there's no evil laughter, no darkening skies, no fire spewing out. The version of Sunset she sees before her, the real Sunset, takes her by surprise. She didn't know how to feel, seeing Sunset looking more melancholic. More sad. Part of her almost wishes she was in a demon form, this felt all sorts of wrong.

There's nothing but silence, as if all parties have trouble on how to move forward. Chrysalis takes a deep breath and puts on a stern look. If only to keep herself composed. She couldn't be too careful.

Chrysalis: So… after all these years, we're face to face like this once more, Sunset Shimmer.,,

There's clear disdain in her voice, but she's not flying off the handle at least.

Chrysalis: There's many things I've wanted to say to you, to DO to you. Not a day has gone by where I hadn't thought about how I'd exact my revenge… but...

She trailed off. Sunset could see that while her hatred was still there, Chrysalis was far different from how she remembered as well.

Chrysalis: I need to know the truth first, you killed my family and then ran off. Applejack can confirm what I'm saying isn't a lie. But will the same be said for you?

Sunset stands silent for a moment, trying to think of what to say. It's a predicament to try to speak to someone who accuses you of the worst crimes, and is certain in their view that you are guilty of said crime without any more evidence other than witness testimony that claims that they saw them do it.

Sunset: I... I first must say of course... that I'm not here to confess to what you say I did. I did not kill your family. Not a single one of them, I fought with your brother Tarsus... but by no means did I intend anyone to die. Not even him. If I weren't already dead, I'd have told you I'd swear that to my grave.

This makes Chrysalis immediately turn towards Applejack, hoping for any sign that she's caught Sunset in a lie. But to her frustration, Applejack simply shakes her head to indicate she detected no lies. Twilight stepped in front of Applejack just in case.

Sunset: I have however... held intense guilt from that day ever since... even the day of my own death doesn't compare to how much trauma that day left on me... even us spirits can't escape from remembering the worst days of our lives..

Chrysalis' eyes narrowed, of course she expected this to happen, Sunset denying it and Applejack confirming she's not lying. She grit her teeth, it was clear how agitated she was. But it's what Sunset said next that she had a bigger issue with.

Chrysalis: Intense guilt? INTENSE GUILT!? You cannot come to me and claim intense trauma over that! You completed your mission, didn't you?! You eradicated the main threat like you were supposed to? Isn't that the pony way, destroy or lock away in stone what you cannot assimilate?!

Celestia stood up at this, not wanting to sit idly by. She knew Chrysalis was speaking out of anger, but she wasn't going to let this slide.

Celestia: Now you hold on, Chrysalis. I have NEVER given the order to have the changelings be eliminated. Do not go putting words into my mouth. The only thing I had tasked Sunset with that day was to make sure your brother didn't do anything nefarious. You may not like hearing this, but he was no saint. Towards ponies or changelings. I aimed to prevent a needless war but I never had any intention of having the entire changeling hive be eradicated! We realized that day that ponies and changelings’ might never align for a generation afterwards!

Chrysalis whipped her head towards Celestia.

Chrysalis: I watched everything and everyone I once loved go up in flames, BECAUSE OF YOU AND HER! I'll admit, you’re right that my brother was no fan of ponies, but he was out to protect the hive! He's the reason I'm alive today! Had you never come to the hive that day, maybe… maybe… GRAAAH!

Chrysalis slammed her hooves on the ground, while the floor around the physical ponies and gryphon rattled, Sunset didn't get affected by it at all. But instead of making her angrier, it actually deflated her mood. She knew that she couldn't do anything to affect Sunset… and vice versa.

Chrysalis: Tch... you have no idea how much I suffered because of you...

She sighs and quiets down, but it is clear she still blames Sunset.

Sunset: Sure... from a pure, if cruel interpretation of the Equestrian viewpoint it was a success, but it was certainly not in the way I intended it to go. I only wanted to take your brother in as I suspected he had plans that would be no good for anyone, not even his own kind. I even found it a little suspicious that he moved all of you to such a volcanic island. You're not dragons, lava and fire are in fact very dangerous to your kind.

The hope was that taking your brother in would allow the cooler heads of your other siblings to prevail. We weren't planning a coup where we planted ourselves as your new leaders, I very much wanted both Arista and Spur to remain in power. Tarsus was putting us on a path for a bloody war that would be too costly for both pony and changeling-kind.

And while from a pure, if heartless, look at the conditions of the mission was arguably achieved. That doesn't mean I was happy with the result. I'll concede that it was worse for you having lost so many of your beloved family and most of your kind, but I did not run off because ‘the job was done’. I ran off because I was trying to find shelter from the flying debris. And once I did find safety... my heart was pounding, my breath hyperventilating, and the only things I could hear were the screams of the dying... and the pure heartbreak that there was nothing I could have done for them! I was a powerful unicorn sure, but I was only in my late teen's and I wasn't so strong that I could reverse the miles of lava flow and suffocating smoke!

I had been in close calls before, but I... was not expecting the horrors I saw then... even years after I'd have nightmares. I even declined many missions to the dragon lands because I didn't want to step NEAR another volcano no matter how dormant!

And despite the fact that my target was your brother, I tried to save him too. What your eyes likely saw when you thought I pushed him in was me outstretching my hoof as he jumped off himself! Somehow he knew his death would accelerate the volcanic eruption to unstoppable levels. Once he died, things quickly escalated for the worse! It could have only been the dark magic released from his death!

Sunset's point about Tarsus moving the hive to a volcano made Chrysalis think back to Arista and Spur. They'd brought up the same concerns, but the fact that she was even relating Sunset to them made her blood boil.

Chrysalis: Don't you say their names! You… you have not earned the right to say them! And you say you ran off, but I heard your gloating! You can chalk it up to teenage bravado but clearly you enjoyed every second during your fight from how I saw things.

She looked baffled at the idea that Sunset tried to save Tarsus. Or that he knew what happens when someone with an evil heart dies.

Chrysalis: What utter nonsense! That memory is burned into my mind! I never once forgot. You didn't fail to pull him up, you PUSHED him in! I saw it! And while Tarsus was intelligent, a tactical genius, he wouldn't have known anything about the spirits or what happens when wicked creatures perish. Of course the fact that you equate him to such, sickens me. Where would he have possibly learned such information?!

Chrysalis' horn flared up, but it wasn't to attack.

Chrysalis: No, you need to see what you looked like in my eyes. While the steam of the volcano was rising, I had been told to go and hide. But I saw your face as he began to fall, almost intentionally looking in my direction. You looked just… like… this!!

She transformed into Sunset Shimmer, the younger one, however her face had been twisted into a wicked grin.

Chrysalis: This is the face I remember! Go ahead, ask Applejack, ask if I'm lying!

Sunset: Smiling?! There's no way I was smiling! How many times do I have to tell you this, that day traumatized me! The very reason I began looking for avenues for a more normal life was because of that day. I came back to Canterlot in tears, Princess Celestia herself could vouch for that. I spent my first night back curled in her hooves like I was a little filly again! Nothing ever felt the same after that day... I was tempted to quit as Celestia's apprentice as early as the week after because I got scared wondering if more moments like this would be in my future...

Yes, I was a cocky, hotshot teenager. I will fully admit to having been over-the-top and taking things less seriously than I should have... but the smile of a psychopath is not a symptom of being a teenager. I don't know how you could've seen me smile, were you watching through a reflection mistaking my frown for a smile? Has your own nightmares of the day overwritten the real memory?

Sunset and Chrysalis both looked over to Applejack to see if anyone has been embellishing anything they've said.

Applejack just about stood there stumped as much as they are. Her mouth wide open.

Applejack: Neither o' y'all have lied... this is just like Chrysalis n' Starlight's argument back at the hive!

Starlight: Good gracious... how in Equestria are we going to find evidence one way or the other?!

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

(Part 2 coming as early as next week!)

From the moment that Starlight and the others left Chrysalis behind, she had her back turned from the entrance to her cell. She stared at the hole she'd made in the wall. That magic blast would have been more than enough to kill Starlight had she hit her point blank. She replayed it in her head, but the thought of actually going through with it terrified her even more. But at the same time, Starlight was the daughter of her most hated enemy. And she'd hid that information from Chrysalis, which only made things worse. Chrysalis would go over again and again in her mind trying to justify why she did what she did. Even with what she saw as a betrayal, she spared Starlight.

She also thought of what Applejack had told her before she'd left, and as frustrating as it was, she knew it to be true… but that only made her even more angry with herself.

Chrysalis: No… she and I are not friends! We could never be... I-I'm not...

She stomped at the ground, feeling the tears welling up again. She let out a shout that echoed around the empty chamber.

Chrysalis: Curses! This was so much easier when I was just against them all! Those wretched ponies, they... they've infected me with those beliefs of theirs! With their ideals of 'friendship'! I-I am the Queen of the Changelings! I-I don't need any friends!

She let that ring out… but even with that blustering to herself, she knew it to be a lie. She flashed back to when the Mean Twilight clone she created said she did which made her break down once more.

Chrysalis: What am I even doing? They should have just put me back in stone, that would have been easier...

Chrysalis looked back to see that Apple Bloom's cart of her brewed flavored teas had been left behind after the chaos she'd caused. Some of the glass bottles fell off the cart and broke on the floor. There were still some drinks that were on the cart, but It was outside of the barrier so she couldn't get to it even if she tried. She took a good look at some of the other crumbled bits of the hive, realizing now the full magnitude of what she'd almost done.

Chrysalis: Some Queen I am...

With tears in her eyes, she curled up in the corner and went to sleep.

Or at least… she tried to sleep this off as hard as she could. The full weight of what she almost did in pure anger still overwhelmed her mind. The depression takes her to some dark thoughts. Maybe instead of killing Starlight, she thougth maybe she should have made a reflective bubble to surround her… and then direct all that power just for it to bounce off... destroying herself.

Come to think of it, a really scary question comes up. All while explaining how the soul shield and afterlife works, Starlight never mentioned what happens to the spirits of those who took their own lives. Would Chrysalis still be considered evil enough that her death would damage the hive, or is there at least some mercy if at the moment of death. Those who wanted no one around them to be hurt anymore, other then the inevitable emotional toll suicide takes on others who have come to know them? It's a question she's not sure it's going to be answered, the fear of the former is at least what makes her hesitant to pull it off.

After a few more minutes of thinking alone, she considers just ending it all for herself before morning arrives regardless of what she thinks. Today's events just about confirmed to her that there's no place for her. Chrysalis believes not even Twilight's going to be able to forgive her for almost killing not just one of her best friends, but also her student, and a majority of the changelings she considers allies. Speaking of which, after scaring everyone else of her own kind. They probably don't ever want to see her again either. This also means she might have blown her chance at meeting Arista and Spur again as spirits... but would she even want to face them again after what she had just pulled?

She takes some time to debate within herself the effect of just ending her own life just so it'd all be over for her. Deciding that if she's going to decide to take her own life, she hopes it's before Starlight arrives. But for now, one last rest to mull over her entire life to this point.

But if Chrysalis thought this night would give her a peaceful rest to think, she was sadly mistaken. Those dark thoughts continued to swirl in her mind even as she slept, pulling her into a vivid nightmare. On the outside, she began to toss and turn, even sweating from the nightmare she'd landed in. For within the dream, she found herself running from not one, but multiple powerful entities.

???: Pathetic insect… worthless Queen. You have been an eyesore for too long... It's time you were brought out of your misery and your useless existence!

???: Oh how the mighty have fallen! You aren't even worthy of the title of Queen! You cannot be Queen with no subjects! You cannot even be a proper villain anymore! What good are you!?

Chrysalis: Shut your mouths! I... I am Queen of the Changelings! I... need nopony by my side! I am...

The voices were quite familiar to her, twisted forms of ponies she'd known and loathed. But as she ran, she was cut off and collided with one of them. Who laughed. When Chrysalis looked up, she could see Celestia and Luna… or rather, their vicious alternate selves, Daybreaker and Nightmare Moon.

Daybreaker: You. Are. NOTHING! Not good enough to be Queen… and you have nowhere to hide

Nightmare Moon: And certainly no threat to anypony. Truly a defanged beast at best. It'd be merciful to put you down for good.

Chrysalis: N-no! Stay away from me!

Chrysalis tried to fire off a magic blast at the two… but it just bounced off them, causing the evil monarchs to laugh in her face. Chrysalis shrunk back, quivering in fear.

As Chrysalis backed away, the fearful sight of these different forms of the Alicorn sisters terrified her. Though as she reflexively backs away, the flash of a teleport spell forces Chrysalis to close her eyes for a moment. When she looks back up, it's none other than Starlight Glimmer. She's at first scared that Starlight is assisting the sisters, but instead she's facing the two right on.

Starlight: I can't believe you two! I never thought it'd ever come to this, but you're taking this too far! GO AWAY!

Starlight fires a humongous blast that seems to surprise even the alicorn sisters who dodge it but are certainly distracted long enough for Starlight to give Chrysalis some time for them to run.

Starlight: Quickly! Follow me!

Nightmare Moon: Agh! Annoying pest!

Daybreaker: That will not save you!

Chrysalis is stunned to see Starlight not only there, but assisting her as well. She didn't fully know how to process it but she wasn't going to stick around either. She took Starlight's hoof and ran with her through a forest which seemed even more dense than the Everfree itself!

Chrysalis: S-Starlight!? You're… helping me!? Thank you, but why!? If you stick around, they'll obliterate you!

Chrysalis gasped at her own genuine worry for Starlight, she shook her head.

Chrysalis: Just... just get out of here! Your assistance was appreciated. But get out of here before they come back!

There was a rustling nearby which put Chrysalis on edge. Daybreaker and Nightmare Moon couldn't have found them already...

???: Oooh, what do we have here? A heart teetering on the precipice of breaking entirely. Perhaps we should give her a simple push, wouldn't you agree~?

This new voice seemed to be speaking to someone else, but neither Chrysalis or Starlight could see where it was coming from. Even though she was just telling Starlight to leave, Chrysalis stuck close to her when she heard this new but familiar voice.

Chrysalis: No… don't tell me… not her too!

Starlight gasped too at the familiar voice.

Starlight: Cadence?! Nooo! What's gotten into all of you?!

???: Cadence? Hahaha! Oh you're quite mistaken… call me… Cardiac!

A much darker looking version of Cadence appears in front of them. While it's unknown if she had some dark side like Luna or Celestia. In this nightmare, she's all too real.

Chrysalis: This… this is impossible! You shouldn't exist!

Cardiac: I think YOU are the one that shouldn't exist, Chrysalis. Besides, you and I have some unfinished business. I look forward to making you suffer for everything you did to my husband. And you Starlight… oh I'm going to enjoy taking you down as well for what you've done to Twilight in the past… or I would but...

Cardiac looks to the shadows with a sinister smirk.

Cardiac: Care to join the party and teach your student and this FAILURE one final lesson?~

Chrysalis' expression dropped even further, she knew whom Cardiac was talking to now and it filled her with even more fear.

???: Gladly, my dear sister-in-law!

Starlight's heart sank as she heard what was clearly Twilight's voice.

Starlight: No... no... NOOOOO! Twilight?! NOT YOU TOO!

A rather sinister laugh comes out of the alicorn genie's lips. For Chrysalis it only reminded her way too much of the Twilight clone she created a long time ago. Though this Twilight certainly had a much more intimidating appearance to match those of the evil forms of Celestia, Luna, and Cadence.

???: Oh, poor poor Starlight... I guess I'm going to have to expel you for betraying Equestria like this. Move aside, and we will remove this so-called ‘Queen’ off our planet forever

Starlight growled

Starlight: Betray Equestria?! What are you talking about, I'm standing up for the beliefs that I thought you were teaching all along! Kindness, understanding, empathy! and so much more! Attacking Chrysalis like this is the antithesis to what the School of Friendship was for!

This dark form of Twilight just laughs

???: Did you really think I meant that for everyone? I only included non-ponies into the school of friendship to be brainwashed from a young age to share the superiority of ponies! How else could I have truly gotten EEA approved? I did everything… by. the. BOOK.!

It seems, that this only goes to show you never really did let go of your silly beliefs in equality... tis' a shame.

...Oh and by the way, I don't go by Twilight anymore. Allow me to introduce myself as... MIDNIGHT SPARKLE!

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

Starlight Glimmer was quite cheery as she made the final preparations for the next lesson. She felt more confident than ever that she was succeeding in helping Chrysalis turn a corner. While in every previous lesson had one thing or another she was worried about.

Whether that was Pinkie's shrillness, Cheese Sandwich being just as off putting as his marefriend sometimes, and the know-it-all attitude of Mud Briar in the Laughter lesson.

Or a reunion with Cadence and Shining Armor getting too heated, then there was the spoiled Flurry Heart thinking she can change Chrysalis just by looking cute... and that's not even getting into how Discord almost drew all her progress back into the negatives during the Kindness lesson.

She also wasn't sure how the one-on-one talk with Thorax would go, though the Changeling king felt it was an important step. Starlight's just thankful she had Ocellus there to help balance out Chrysalis.

And the egos in the room that were a part of the Loyalty lesson had her wondering if they'd even mix. Though luckily, those turned out to be the types Chrysalis could vibe with the most.

But now that she's onto Honesty, there were little-to-no worries this time. Well, maybe just a tad about Pharynx when he shows up. Maybe also a little if the subject of Tarsus is brought up too. But even those seemed tiny compared to how devastated she felt the moment Discord decided to step in all of a sudden. Starlight couldn't see anything going wrong on that level when they have all the good hearts they’re bringing in today.

The Apple Family had not too long ago finished their annual harvest and the ponies (Along with a certain yak) that Starlight approached about showing up for this lesson were more than happy to assist anyway they can. They standby waiting for Starlight to give them the signal from outside the portal. Starlight jumps through the portal and approaches Chrysalis' large barrier cell with a confident, excitable smile.

Starlight: Good afternoon, Chrysalis!

Going into this lesson, Chrysalis was actually… feeling good. She was even looking forward to the lessons now. Though her pride would keep herself in check. She was only doing this for freedom! For her personal goals, definitely not because she came to see Starlight as a friend. At least, that's what she was telling herself. But the truth was that even if Chrysalis didn't want to say it out loud, Starlight was helping her in ways she never thought possible.

She'd kept her family life to herself until Starlight had chipped away at her defenses. And now, Chrysalis had been willingly sharing her history with her… it was a change that still scared her… but at the same time, it gave her hope. Maybe things can be better. When Starlight approached her cell, she had a noticeable smile for Starlight. And the wings on her back looked shinier than they were at the end of the Loyalty lesson.

Chrysalis: Heh, is it that time already? And so soon after the last one? Not that I mind, I highly doubt we have much concern for today. I know Applejack will be coming along and besides a potential sour look, I'm sure this lesson will be a breeze.

She sounded quite confident, but considering the lesson is about honesty, Chrysalis may have more difficulty than she thinks.

Starlight nods, and gives a warm smile

Starlight: Yeah, I'm positive this lesson will go pretty smoothly. Maybe there will be some tension for when it's time to call down Pharynx... as no doubt with having seen Ocellus and Thorax again. It's about time you spoke with him too.

Though I will say, things will be pretty different this time around. You won't need to answer a question on when you've been more honest. Nor come clean to how many times you lied, as a changeling queen who's a master of deception. I assume there'd be way too many to count.

This gave Chrysalis some pause.

Chrysalis: Ah… yes, Pharynx… I've no doubt he has some choice words for me... He was always so loyal to the hive. I kind of expected to see him in the previous lesson… but given his tendency to speak his mind without filter, it's fitting you chose him for this lesson.

And hmmph… you dare to assume that I've not been honest! Oh the audacity! I've been a paragon of… pffft, I cannot even make that bold faced of a lie. But you do make a blunt although fair point. If we were to catalog every lie I've ever told, we'd need a multitude of books to fill them!

She seemed almost proud of that statement. But it was clear that Chrysalis had become much more comfortable with joking around with Starlight.

Starlight chuckles a little before her face turns more serious

Starlight: To be frank, today's lesson will be more about us being honest with you... there are many things I withheld talking about until now. Crucial information that has come out in the time you've been gone. But I promise there was a reason for it, I'm not sure any of the previous lessons could have been as cleanly done if I had told you what we'll delve into today from the very start.

But before I talk about this, we are also bringing in our first few guests near immediately. Especially Applejack, who as the Element of Honesty. She will help assure you that everything we're going to say today... is the truth.

Chrysalis: What do you mean that you'll be honest with me? What sort of information have you been withholding, Starlight Glimmer?

Chrysalis tilts her head, looking much more serious. But given the information that had come about during her time away, she assumes it was withheld so as to not overwhelm her with it.

Chrysalis: Well, Applejack is honest to a fault, I know that much. If anypony lies, she'll be able to call it out… so fine, bring her and the assortment of others in. I'm sure it'll be an interesting bit of discussion.

Starlight prepares a pair of gum. Though in this case, she pulls out two at once. In order to have enough gum to make a larger bubble for the portal.

Starlight: Just a heads up that one of our guests has grown quite big. But as huge as they are, they have a big heart... in both a metaphorical sense, and also literally given a yak's anatomy.

Starlight chews the two packs of gum and begins to blow a large bubble. A big loud pop is heard as a portal is opened into the chamber.

The first one to step in is in fact the large guest that Starlight was referring to. It was none other than Yona, who beams a smile as she arrives at the scene. Her excitable footsteps enough to make small tremors in the underground chamber.

Yona: Yona Yak has arrived! Yona excited to meet friend Ocellus' mother!

Next to go through the portal is a yellow pony with red hair, and a big bow. The 3rd and final member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Apple Bloom. Behind her is a cart she drags in that has many bottles of what seems to be some kind of drink. With an aptly named Applebrew's logo on both sides of the cart.

Apple Bloom: Howdy, Chrysalis! Ah heard from the other crusaders y’all been meetin’ up wit’ them during ya lessons and also getting t’ know their tricks o’ the trade. So ah hope ya don't mind that ah brought some special drinks! Ah'm sure ya'll like em! They are made with love after all!

Chrysalis looks a bit surprised by some of the guests, she obviously recognizes Applejack and by extension, Apple Bloom, but the others all seem new to her. The yak, Yona, whom Chrysalis could gather was Ocellus' friend. Though the other pony that comes in alongside Applejack, she has no frame of reference for. She sees her cutie mark, a star with musical notes on it, but it doesn't ring a bell.

Coloratura: Wow… so you're the Queen of the Changelings. Uh, I'm Coloratura. Though friends call me Rara. It's nice to meet you.

She seemed a bit more reserved than the others, Though Chrysalis can taste a very distinct flavor of love coming from her… and it was directed at Applejack!

Chrysalis: Well now… this is certainly an interesting assortment...

#genie twilight

ember-spark

Genie Pinkie (from Ain't Never Had Friends Like Us): Awww, don't worry snakey me! You're far from the only one who has mods that hasn't done a lot with you in a while! It's not that they don't care for you, but they just find themselves with other plans!

Life still goes on for me, Dashenie, and Jackenie even if it's not shown very often for example!

My own mod has been doing a lot with Twilenie's universe, and a brand new Starlenie in a new universe! almost wish I could bring the latter over... But Twilenie got a glimpse of how ahem... evil... she still is, heh. And told us that universe is banned from our pocket dimension. Wouldn't want her possibly genifying the entire multiverse right?

Featuring Genie Pinkie from @aintneverhadfriendslikeus

aintneverhadfriendslikeus

Genie Pinkie: I like to think that all the inactive ponies here are still living their lives, they've just stopped sharing themselves and their world, and there are always memories attached to what they did share!

Heck! Remember the Twixie Genies? The blog doesn't even exist anymore! But the universe isn't gone. As Twilenie has visited them at least a few times since!

Maybe I'm just an optimist, but that's just how I take it.

((While on this subject, I do apologize that I seemed to have mostly left the genies on here behind. But I've had plenty of fun here, and it's just I am far more focused on continuing the stories I want to do over on both I Dream of Twilight Sparkle and Geniequestria. Perhaps the right ask could compel me to do something for Genie Pinkie, Applejack, Rainbow, or Sci-Twi. But otherwise there's nothing in the cards for them on the level of my other two blogs))

#genie pinkie #genie #pinkie pie #pinkalamia #fan art #reblog #my little pony friendship is magic #my little pony #lamia

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

After things ended well in the last session, Starlight felt emboldened enough to plan the next session sooner. It's only been three days since the Generosity lesson. Like she mentioned to Chrysalis already, the egos of this lesson's guests this time do somewhat worry her for this lesson. But not in a way that means she has no faith in her friends, just a bit curious how Chrysalis is going to behave with guests who have egos closer to the Queen's own.

At the same time this lesson should be something of a breather compared to the last one since it won't require any emotional talks with Ocellus and/or Thorax. Perhaps arguably there was a lot more at stake, and things that could have easily gone terribly wrong in the previous lesson and in fact almost did when Chrysalis tried to escape, but Starlight also doesn't want this session to end in a standstill with every one in the room just saying what they're the best at while doing nothing but irritating Chrysalis. Some of the guests are those she's known for more than a decade now, but there's certainly going to be some chemistry with this group. Starlight just doesn't know if it will all mix together, or just blow up in her face.

She approaches the now much more enlarged cell behind the barrier and calls out for Chrysalis

Starlight: I'm back, Chrysalis! Hope the extra space has felt much better these past few days.

Unlike so many of the previous sessions, Chrysalis actually seems a bit pleased to see Starlight. The additional cell space has really allowed her to be more cheery.

Chrysalis: Ah is it that time already? You'd given me such a break before our last lesson, I didn't think you'd be having this one so soon. I'm well aware who's coming… at least one of the ponies who's coming. You'll be happy to know I have been practicing my flight thanks to this bigger space! I know a certain competitive blue pony will try to assert her dominance over me, but that's not going to happen now!

She cackled.

Starlight: I figured since things ended relatively well last time, it would be best to strike while the iron is hot you could say. You obviously needed time after not just the overfill of Pinkie and Cheese's love, but the emotions you had after seeing Discord again. It could have been very easy to just leave you after you had finished talking with Thorax and I'd have had to wait much longer, possibly even the longest wait out of any session yet. But... instead I gave you a chance to explore the hive, and I expanded the size of your cell as a gift... even if that included an escape attempt mixed in the middle of all that.

It helps that today's guests I can gather on a near moment's notice. Where either they already currently work at the friendship school, or they have the speed to arrive anytime I need them.

Chrysalis smirked

Chrysalis: Old habits die hard, what can I say? I chose not to leave though. Or put the blame on you for escaping either, never forget that.

She huffs, speaking as if Starlight owed her for what she did, or rather didn't do. She was aware that Rainbow Dash would be one of the guests, but she was still in the dark on the others.

Chrysalis: It's safe to assume today's lesson is about loyalty… though it's not about pledging loyalty to me is it~?

She gives a toothy grin, while Starlight just lifts an eyebrow with a snarky chuckle

Starlight: Ha, sorry 'Your highness' but we're far from doing that. However, before we bring in our guests... I figure I should ask... is there a moment of your life you held great loyalty for someone that you can share with me. At any point of your life.

Chrysalis thinks about it for a moment before she nods.

Chrysalis: My… my parents. I was quite loyal to them… when they were alive, anyway. And… then I was loyal to the next leader of the hive… or at least the leader who decided to take charge. He taught me everything on how to be the Queen I was!

She noticeably didn't give a name.

Chrysalis: So I do understand the importance of loyalty towards one's leaders. The undying loyalty that would make you put your life on the line for them! That is what I tried to instill in my changelings before I was betrayed.

Starlight writes down on her journal, though in respect to Chrysalis decides not to push for more information. There will be a time and place for that she feels like, and it would feel like pushing her luck if she digs any deeper. She nods and thanks Chrysalis for giving a straightforward answer as she can at this time

Starlight: Thank you Chrysalis, you don't need to go any further than that for now. Let's bring in our guests then, shall we?

Chrysalis sighs.

Chrysalis: Fine, bring them in. I can only imagine the headaches I'll be having tonight. But fine, portal them in... I'm at least ready for the element of loyalty... honestly, she can't be worse than some of the other guests that were… uninvited.

Chrysalis watched as Starlight opened the portal for not only Rainbow Dash, but all of the others that were joining them for this lesson, Chrysalis did directly recognize another pony in this group as well, Trixie.

Chrysalis: (Oh goody… TWO blue annoyances… and both of them have taken part in stopping my plans before…)

Though just as Trixie steps in, a rainbow trail ZOOMS into the chamber, almost blowing Trixie's hat clear off her head and flies all around Starlight's half of the chamber. The Captain of the Wonderbolts enters in style. As she makes a dramatic landing, she poses near Starlight. Her mane style was more like Spitfire's now, and she even had a captain's jacket and sunglasses. As she beams a smug smirk.

Rainbow: Wasssssuuuuuuuuup?! Captain Rainbow Dash of the Wonderbolts is here to provide a bit more color to this dreary room!

A snarky voice is heard from behind a portal in which an orange and purple dragon walks on in. This was Smoulder, she was about Dragon Lord Ember's height from 10 years ago by now.

Smolder: I didn't know you were a painter... Professor Dash.

Trixie was also in some slightly different attire, she was wearing a suit of the same color as her magician hat. It looked more professional than her cape though it was still in a similar style.

Trixie: Hmph! You nearly made Trixie lose her hat! How can the Great and Powerful Counselor Trixie make a grand entrance without it!? Trixie must look presentable at all times! Chrysalis has not seen the new, and improved, Trrrrrrixie!

The other pony that came in was pretty speedy as well, carrying a backpack on her that was large enough to cover her tiny wings.

Scootaloo: Let's not forget Equestria's Mermaid, me, Scootaloo! One of the fastest members, if not the fastest member of the Waterbolts!

Chrysalis looked at them all and deadpanned.

Chrysalis: Ah… egotistical self love, well at least I know what kind of flavor I'll be getting to taste plenty of today...

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

Starlight: Awww, stop it, mom! You're embarrassing me! Sunset: *giggles* But that's what mothers do, Starlight! Even the ghostly ones!

Starlight: I guess that's true, even Autumn Blaze's horror comedy puppet show “I See Dead People, and they’re surprisingly not that different from when they were Living” leaned into that idea

Sunset: Ha, perhaps the kirins have known a little more about the way the world works then us ponies do.

Starlight: *giggles* Maybe! Just maybe! But regardless, I'm still very thankful you're here for me at last... I know it's not the way either of us wanted to be together. I very much wish I could have you back in full flesh and blood. But I understand that's a wish not even Twilight's power can grant. I can take what I get for now. This is still a miracle that I'll never forget, and I'll never be able to thank Twilight and Spike enough for making our reunion possible

Sunset: I too wish I could be back in a a body of flesh and blood again. But it's not all bad, protecting the planet as much as I ever have along with being able to hug and speak to you whenever I'm summoned back down... is enough in my eyes... and I share your feelings about Twilight and Spike. If there's one mother-child duo better than us, then it's those two.

Starlight: Heh, I suppose I can agree with that. Although... if I had been able to grow up with you by my side... I feel we could have challenged them for that honor!

Sunset: Oh! Is that a slight tinge of a 'sibling' rivalry for the next Alicorn sister-to-be I feel?~

Starlight: Oh don't speak too soon, please.... but maybe a little *giggles*

((Gift art from Nova Spark. (NSFW Warning) Thank you very much!

And a happy new year to everyone else! Plenty more in store for both IDOTS and Geniequestria ahead!))

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

(Mod note: This is Part 2 of 2, if you are seeing this one first. Please go back here for the first part)

Once Thorax came into view, Chrysalis locked eyes with him, never letting him leave her sight.

Chrysalis: It's about time, you and I have much to discuss...you backstabbing, insignificant little...

She clicked her tongue, cutting herself off. Waves of insults would get her nowhere at the moment. She took a deep breath to center herself. Unlike Ocellus and the others she's come in contact with, Thorax stood at her height, perhaps even a bit taller than her. Chrysalis' tone was cold, a far cry from how she was when speaking to Ocellus.

Chrysalis: How does it feel to sit upon the throne? To have the weight of the hive thrust upon you? Is it too much to bear? The crown is heavier than you'd expect...isn't it?

The questions were surprisingly normal for now, but the way Chrysalis spoke, it was as if she were looking to find some cracks in Thorax's methods

Thorax sighed

Thorax: I would be lying if I said it was always easy, but I haven't been alone. Besides my brother, I've leaned on the experience of my friends in Equestria and Dragon Lord Ember whenever I needed help.

I probably wouldn't have been able to do this all by myself, but... given we feed on social interaction. It makes more sense that even royal changelings need true friends and/or family then it does for Equestria. And I think you've ignored this selfishly for too long. Your isolationist mindset arguably kept us safe, but it also made us grow too distant. You made sure we had enough love to live off of and fend for ourselves, but never feeling full.

And then you turned us into invaders... twice at that... as a result... Equestria had more hesitance towards us then any other species outside of Equestria and that includes humongous dragons who's sleep has threatened to cause an unhealthy smog down onto Ponyville or Yaks who have almost declared war over being offended by the slightest perceived insult. I'm sure even now there are some ponies scared of us, and they'd have good reason to... thankfully there's probably much less than there used to be.

I've done my hardest to make up for your errors every day... though... I think Ocellus is the one who's been more effective at changing minds about us than I have. Perhaps... I may at least concede something now that I've learned she was meant to succeed you. That she may indeed be what the hive truly needs in the near future., should she accept a leadership position that is.

As sometimes... the best leaders are the ones that are most hesitant to lead...

Chrysalis: And yet you took the throne not realizing any of that. You were not meant to sit upon it.

If looks could kill, Thorax would be dead on the spot ten times over. The glare on Chrysalis' face intensifies with each comment about relying on the ponies and other species or calling her rule a mistake. Surprisingly though, Chrysalis did not interrupt him once, actually letting Thorax say his piece. Once he was done talking, Chrysalis got as close as she could to the barrier.

Chrysalis: You would not be here today had it not been for my rule, I can guarantee that. Put your trust in those ponies too long, and watch what happens. I may be going along with these lessons but do not think for a second that I will trust them implicitly.

There was a different kind of anger on display here, not loud and boisterous like Thorax would expect, but rather a cold and powerful tone. She sounded eerily calm when speaking.

Chrysalis: My 'errors' are what allowed the hive to grow. You do not and cannot understand what I had to do. You have no right to tell me that I need friends or family… I WILL NOT BE SCOLDED BY...

She paused, taking a deep breath, she was making sure not to yell too much, perhaps so that their conversation would only be between them and not be heard by Ocellus or any of the other changelings?

Chrysalis: You may find it shocking that I agree that throne does belong to Ocellus. But she doesn't want it...

Unlike when Ocellus was in the room, Chrysalis' displeasure of that fact was very apparent, given that she was now shaking, clearly holding herself back.

There was another pause.

Chrysalis: But let me tell you something, some....'advice', if you were so eager to usurp the throne all those years ago. DO NOT TRY TO PUSH IT OFF ON OTHERS NOW!

Chrysalis could no longer keep her voice down

Chrysalis: IT IS NOT SOMETHING YOU CAN JUST GIVE UP! YOU CANNOT FATHOM WHAT I HAD TO DO TO GET THE HIVE BACK TO A SEMBLANCE OF ITS FORMER GLORY AND YOU TOOK THAT FROM ME! BECAUSE OF YOU I LOST EVERYTHING AGAIN!

AND YOU THINK IT'S 'TOO HARD'?! PATHETIC, THORAX!

She slammed on the barrier

Chrysalis: YOU WANT TO RULE?! THEN ACTUALLY STAND UP AND RULE! I WILL NOT SIT BACK IDLY BY AND LET HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF!

In a strange way, it's almost like Chrysalis was trying to motivate him

Chrysalis: Unless you want me to take complete control again… or perhaps even someone worse… is that what you want?"

Thorax flinches as Chrysalis scolds him, most changelings have been bred to fear Chrysalis' when her voice is raised. Thorax tries to look strong in the face of his mother's verbal wrath. But even for how old he is, and how long he's been king. It's hard for him not to either try to apologize and calm her down, or just run away and hide in a corner like he used to as a small changeling regardless if Chrysalis' anger was at him. or not.

Thorax: H-h-h-hey! L-l-listen... I wasn't saying... that I would force Ocellus... or any one else to lead in my stead... if Ocellus wants to lead, I want to make sure that was her decision alone when she decides to... I won't pressure her, and I've kept my promise to Starlight... and you for that matter... not to tell anyone else in the hive yet.... Not even my brother, about Ocellus' true nature.

Thorax wonders if at least keeping the conversation about Ocellus might at least calm Chrysalis down a little

Seeing Thorax quiver in fear, on one hand, it made Chrysalis feel good that she could still make him feel that after all these years… but on the other hand, it filled her with concern for the hive. Someone like this, at least in her mind, could not be an effective leader. But on top of that, it stung that the changelings would prefer this kind of ruler over her own.

Chrysalis: (How… how could I have been replaced by… this sorry display? He's almost like… no, Thorax is nothing like him)

The mention of Ocellus does indeed calm her back down. There's even a crack in that angry façade she's giving at Thorax staying true to his word.

Chrysalis: Good...you did do something right then. Pharynx...now there's a changeling who I know who could be a proud leader… but I think you made the right call in not telling him.

This was a rare bit of praise Thorax might not have expected to hear

Chrysalis: I do not want to think what may happen should he find out right now...you WILL keep Ocellus safe. Whether she chooses to lead or not.

Thorax: I myself felt something oddly special about Ocellus even long before Starlight told me what you told her... though it was still a shock. I sent her as our representative at what was then Twilight's Friendship School since she was oddly very shy for a changeling, I thought maybe some experience at Twilight's school would help her grow socially. And luckily... Sandbar, Yona, Smoulder, Gallus, and Silverstream were just what she needed to come out of her shell. And it helped that Twilight and friends were great teachers too, Ocellus acing nearly every category in school outside of some of the more physical education that were in some of Rainbow's classes. But even then, she was having fun playing games with the other students even when she wasn't that great at it.

I couldn't have been more proud of her progress during her time as a student. And she's doing us just as proud as a teacher.

She snarled before calming back down. Listening to Thorax praise Ocellus' efforts made her proud as well.

Chrysalis: Hmph, of course! She was bred for greatness, it's only natural she would excel at those menial tasks given by the ponies. (Though if they're the ones who've given her the confidence to stand up to me in the way she has....I suppose I cannot complain. But I won't thank them for letting her realize some of her potential.)

For the first time since Thorax had walked into the room, Chrysalis broke her eye contact with him, choosing now to look away as if she's got her mind on something else.

Chrysalis: I want to know something...of all creatures here, why would you want me out of this prison? And don't say because you believe more in Sparkle or Glimmer.

Thorax takes a moment to think before responding

Thorax: Well... regardless of what you think of me. Whether as a leader, a son, or even both... I can't bring myself to say I hate you... while I'm sure you would gladly say that to me 100 times right now if you wanted to... I'll repeat what I said earlier, I pity you... and I'll also repeat that I know that bothers you more than if I did despise you...

Thorax pauses a little while before thinking if he should even say this.

Thorax: ....I must say though. Even with the peaceful time we've had in this past decade. There's just something about the current hive that feels oddly.... missing that's become more evident as time has gone on. And it's hard to find the right words for what that is... and everytime I try to think of when we last had whatever that feeling was... it always goes back to when you were still ruling the hive...

Don't misunderstand me though, that doesn't mean I want you to suddenly lead us by yourself again... but there's this nagging feeling... that the hive hasn't felt... 'complete' since your self-exile... I'm at least willing to admit that much...

This was near exactly what Ocellus mentioned to Chrysalis, that despite it all. Many changelings somehow still felt Chrysalis' still had something that even a decade-long absence is sorely missed in the hive

This came as a shock to Chrysalis. When she'd asked something similar when everyone was in the cave, she'd assumed that Thorax was just trying to be diplomatic in front of the others, waiting to let out his true feelings when they were alone. But hearing it again, that he doesn't hate her, but rather, pity her. It doesn't sit right, there's a heat that builds up on the back of her neck, she starts to tremble, but all she can let out at the moment is a single word.

Chrysalis: …Why?

She couldn't fathom that someone whom she'd discarded would not hate her. Especially considering that it was coming from the often neglected son of hers. By all accounts he should hate her, at least that's what she thinks. When he mentioned the same thing Ocellus did, it hit differently this time. She should feel overjoyed that Thorax admits that the hive needs her… but it doesn't. Instead, she's left stunned.

Chrysalis: Ocellus said the same thing...

(The methods we once had… perhaps they do need to return? Multiple rulers… but there's only 3 who would understand the current state of the hive...I cannot be the 4th...can I? There's no possible way the current changelings want me back, but these two...they're not particularly good liars. Tch if only I could see it for myself…)

I… I know that feeling. It's… an emptiness. One that cannot be fully understood but you know something is off. And no amount of singular leadership can fill that void…

(I felt it too when I was the only ruler left…)

She was no longer speaking out of anger but out of genuine understanding from one leader to another.

Thorax: Why, you say?

Because deep down... I don't believe you hate me as much as you say you do. If you had wanted to snuff out "weakness" in the hive. You would have kicked me out and left me to die when I was just a grub.

You could have decided I was born defective and justified to the hive that I was never going to survive long anyway... and then proceed to replace me with a new egg, yet you didn't do so...

Maybe you only kept me, because it'd become hypocritical when Ocellus was also born on the more timid side. Kicking me out for showing weakness would have made it a precedent, and the hive might have given Ocellus the same fate. Or maybe exiling changelings for simply showing weakness might have had a slippery slope that would result in a good chunk of the population worried about their very lives. Because they may never know what next counts as "weakness".

You were a forceful leader, but it's least good to know you had standards in not dictating every little thing us changelings did outside of how we should get our love. Outside of when it was time for one of your conquests, you let us be. We had our own families, our own pets, our own belongings and more. As long as we were still an active member of the forces and did what you say, you let us develop our personalities all ourselves.

You cared enough about each and every one of us to trust us enough to do what we wanted. And you weren't so overbearing as to demand perfection from all of us. Even amongst your nation-conquering plans, you developed a real community in this hive. Even if the motive was mostly to instill loyalty and/or camaraderie when invading. It proved to be helpful to us for all sorts of reasons.

Thus... you do actually have a true talent in leadership. As misguided your motives to strike Equestria was, your domestic policies worked to protect and nurture us. If we can get you deemed safe enough to get out of here, it'd be... useful for you to have a word in. We just have to make sure you won't interject if we disagree rather than overrule me, Pharynx, and... potentially... Ocellus

Chrysalis: W-what?! Do not make assumptions, child!

Thorax had brought up several good points, something that made Chrysalis' eyes twitch.

Chrysalis: Perhaps I had the naïve notion that you might have seen your weakness and overcome it to properly serve the hive. (And I suppose he'd consider what he did an overcoming of it… ugh…)

Where I had failed with you, I had hoped to change with Ocellus. Pharynx had come into his own, a true changeling's changeling! You could have been right there with him!

She huffed, looking away as she muttered some defiance

Chrysalis: Had I known what you'd attempt and… succeed to do against me however, perhaps I would have snuffed you out... Or changed my approach somehow...

These precise jabs, pointing out all the genuinely kind things she'd done for the hive, coming from anyone else it wouldn't irk her as much as it did coming from Thorax. She paced around her cell.

Chrysalis: Seeing the hive thriving was and is my priority. And the way I was leading had been working fine until you ruined things. You were living amongst those ponies you love so much, why take what I loved then!?

She twitched even more at her motives being called a mistake.

Chrysalis: You have NO RIGHT to call my motives a mistake! They needed to pay for what they've done. How little you understand, Thorax. Equestria was my enemy, OUR ENEMY! And you turned the entire hive against me!

She paused for a moment. Taking in a deep breath

Chrysalis: In some aspects, I'm almost proud of you for finally finding the courage to stand and fight… but to use it against me and turn every one of my changelings into… whatever you all are now!

She waved a hoof, gesturing at his body.

Chrysalis: You want my advice as a leader? Well here's something for free, watch who you bring close, because they may be the ones to stab you in the back. And have you even run any of this by Pharynx by chance? As loyal as he was, I know he's switched over to your side as well, but I do not see him opening his heart to me. Funny, I may have taught him too well!

Thorax: Pharynx has already opened his heart to you in the time of your sole reign, over the years he's realized that you've broken said heart. He trusted you blindingly for the majority of his life. As such... it's going to be difficult to build that trust back. And a broken heart tends to keep to themselves.

He knows full well the intent of these sessions started by Starlight is meant to bring you back to us in the hive. But he's made it clear with me privately that even if you do get to walk freely in the hive again. He intends to watch you like a hawk.

Chrysalis looked down, Pharynx held a special place in her heart, similar to Ocellus.

Chrysalis: Then I truly did teach him too well. This may come as a shock, but I agree with you there. (And I can relate to such a broken heart…)

He still maintains the safety of the hive above all else, I'm glad to know that this transformation of yours didn't shake that from him. But the sole mindedness that I raised him to have would be a detriment to any potential unified leadership. Two aggressive leaders and two more passive ones? How… ridiculous...

As Chrysalis uttered those words, it triggered something in her mind. She looked even sadder now, not looking at Thorax at all.

(It wouldn't be the first time the hive was run that way…)

Chrysalis: Don't get me wrong, I'm not entertaining the thought, this is merely hypothetical!

She sighs

Chrysalis: ...but he would most likely perceive even the most plain of gestures to be a potential attack or backstab. (Even if I get out of here, remaining in the hive might be more of a burden… I've survived on my own before… I could handle that again… couldn't I?)

This thought didn't really give her much confidence

Thorax: About your claims of it being some new transformation... how sure can you really be claiming the dark, filled with holes look is what changelings are supposed to be...?

When it seems pretty clear by now, that our 'new' forms feel more healthy then they were before. Not that we were all sick, since we could still fight. But we never ever felt full in the old days, but now we can drift off of love that we don't even have to drain and be content for at least a week or more just walking down a city in Equestria and receiving a buffet of different flavors.

I get that most of us changelings are too bright and colorful, perhaps part of that is because it reminds you of the technicolor ponies.

Starlight once thought similarly to you that a pony without a cutie mark would be the way to go moving forward. But all it did was discolor them over time, and they had mediocre talent at everything they did. Now having spent a long part of my life as our "old" forms and now our "new" ones... it seems like you may have actually been holding us back, just as Starlight repressed her old villages' talents. But in this case, not letting us have the full assortment of flavors in love. Keeping our only supply to powerfully drained love that gives an instant boost in terms of energy and power, but circulates out of the body too fast for us to be satisfied for more than a few days....

Thorax's initial question took Chrysalis by surprise. She'd never even considered such a possibility for the changelings but the thought made her shiver

Chrysalis: (That's just...that's impossible…)

She gave a defiant look, though however there was a hint of nervousness.

Chrysalis: Y-you… s-speak as if… you've been a-around… for as long as I h-have. N-N-never in o-our history have c-changelings ever l-looked like you do now…

Thorax quietly gasped, Chrysalis actually stuttering? He must be on to something here.

And to c-claim that the f-form you once took is uunhealthy, that is but an a-assumption! There was a t-time where the hive was at p-peace yet none of us had those g-g-gaudy colors! I do n-not understand what led to this m-mutation of yours! I-it's unnatural for u-us!

In her nervousness, Chrysalis blurts out something she shouldn’t have said to Thorax.

Chrysalis: Are you s-saying that the p-previous leaders of the hive were w-wrong then!? That m-my family, OUR FAMILY was wrong?!

She stopped herself as she realized what she was revealing along with acknowledging Thorax as still part of her family.

Chrysalis: To me it seems changelings can only be a-accepted once we become more p-p-p-pony-like. How is that r-right?! You tell me that I was holding you all b-back? Does that not c-counter your previous point of w-wanting me b-back? It's not like some transformation is going to make me change my ways or who I am.

Furthermore, do NOT go comparing me to G-g-g-Glimmer! She intentionally held her f-followers back out of a selfish need for c-control! I was limiting ourselves to m-maintain focus on the true g-goal! I-it's completely different! We are n-not the s-same!

Her voice was shaky, she was getting louder but it sounded more like she was scared.

Thorax is intrigued that he seems to have gotten Chrysalis a bit on the ropes with this.

Thorax: You seem unnerved, Mom... I was just asking a question based on a hypothesis that I've gathered over the past decade not to mention brainstorming with Starlight as she learned more about us. Judging by your reaction though... I must not be entirely off the mark.

And I mean no disrespect to the previous leaders, whoever they were...

But if it was the darker forms that are actually the newer form of the two, I must wonder if there was an internal conflict on this very thing. I have to imagine there had to be a debate about this... I hope you didn't have anything to do with their fates to try to make them see it your way... it'd be harder to imagine us welcoming you back if it turned out you had a role in assassinations before you gave birth to us.

Of course... I don't know everything, for all I know you were just the only heir before they all died of natural causes.

And the part of you holding us back does not have to contradict us wanting you back. In the world of Politics, even in or perhaps especially in monarchies like ours and Equestria's there can be flaws with a single leader's rule that can become too quickly authoritarian if said leader refuses to consider another viewpoint. But I think it's why both our hive and Equestria tend to hanker more for multiple leaders to get a 2nd opinion and work together for the best of the nation instead of simply being under the whim of one leader. Even with Twilight currently sole-running a majority of Equestria, she often runs things through with Spike and the rest of the Elements before deciding something herself.

As for comparing you to Starlight, at this point... it's kind of undeniable that you two are more alike than you'd like to admit. Honestly, when I walked into this chamber. I think I felt a faint feeling of a connection between you two like the beginning of a friendship or at least of familiar acquaintances. Through these sessions you've gotten to know Starlight more personally and vice versa, and I think you've realized she's the pony you probably relate to the most out of anypony in Equestria. It probably helps that she's gone to bat for you a number of times already, like being very displeased at Discord's sudden appearance in the last session. She hasn't interrogated you like an enemy, she's treated you with the same hospitality she's given to her counseling patients at the Friendship school. You're warming up to her, Mom. You can't hide that fact from me.

Chrysalis: You m-misguided child, you are attempting to p-piece together something you know nothing about. There were NEVER other forms, what you see before you, I am the last of the true changelings! THE LAST QUEEN STANDING! And my r-relation to Glimmer is merely surface level! I'm not w-warming up to anything!

She was still clearly shaken by this at the start, but something Thorax had said took a moment to fully register with her. When it did however, that shaking, defensive tone faded immediately.

Chrysalis: Wait a moment, what did you just say?!

She stepped as close as she could to the barrier, her horn sparking even though she knew her magic wouldn't do a thing. Her tone shifted from that defensive yell to a cold, intense fury.

Chrysalis: Thorax, never once have I told you what happened to the previous royal family. So where did you hear that information? Were you spying on my previous conversation with Ocellus?

If it wasn't for the barrier, it's unclear if Chrysalis would be this 'calm'

Chrysalis: Let me be very clear, you are this close to making me throw this whole lesson nonsense away. I won't care for what they do to me, I will not stand by that accusation whatsoever. I ADORED my family, they were everything to me. To insinuate that I had a role in their MURDERS...

She hissed and shuddered. The clear anger on her face was palpable. It looked as if she was going to burst a few veins in her head. This anger felt different, something very long standing.

Chrysalis: I had to do everything without them, bringing the hive back from near oblivion. I am not their murderer, but I had to watch them die at the hooves of a pony. You will drop this subject IMMEDIATELY!

Thorax internally gulped, he was only far enough to hear not actually able to see it… but he was still kind of spying.

Thorax: N-no, it's... j-just an assumption I had. Plus, I recall it was you who first mentioned the existence of previous leaders to me in this very conversation. So please understand that I was just curious, and them not being around anymore just seemed... to be the most likely theory. As to our knowledge, this hive here is the only Changeling hive in the world. And you think we'd hear if there were these retired Changeling leaders living elsewhere if nothing actually happened to them.

And I apologize for making it seem like I was accusing you of something you'd never done. I only brought it up by thinking a bit more on the possible fates of the previous rulers that once again, you mentioned first in this conversation. I didn't want to believe you'd go as far as assassination to force your goals, it's good that you vehemently rule it out. Not saying I didn't already know you do have standards, but it helps out in knowing your moral compass.

Chrysalis stood with that intense glare, but it softened somewhat at Thorax' explanation. She seemed to buy his reasoning.

Chrysalis: I… see... (Of course, he never had the knack for spying. What am I thinking? He's truly gotten under my skin today. It's like I'm talking to… no, no no no he's nothing like him. All this talk of family is getting to me… I need to regain control of the situation here.)

A jump in logic from the both of us then… while that insinuation infuriates me to no end, I should have thought that through more and not have yelled.

She refused to say the words 'I'm sorry' but this was as close as Thorax would get for now. Chrysalis looked more preoccupied by her own thoughts

Chrysalis: (I wonder if I should have told at least the royal changelings what had happened to our family...perhaps then it would have kept them more loyal? No point thinking about it now though.)

Well I unintentionally gave you some information then, but now you know why I did what I did to the ponies. And don't give me any line about attacking a whole group because of one. I got enough of that from Ocellus...

There was an awkward silence now, Chrysalis was ashamed for flying off the handle and actually revealing some of her genuine self to Thorax of all creatures.

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

(Mod note: This is Part 1 of 2, the full chapter was over the 1000 blocks/paragraph limit. Probably mostly because of the script style, but still gives you a picture of the size of this chapter.)

Starlight returns to the bottom of the hive where Chrysalis remains imprisoned after a long three weeks. Starlight didn't just have some school days to get to, but some surprising new facts learned from the last session drived her to do a few things as she began to prepare for the next one. She got in contact with both Thorax and Ocellus. Conveniently, both of them would be important for this very session, even without what she learned from last time.

Today's session was going to be less crowded than the last one that was meant to have 7 with an 8th that neither Starlight or Chrysalis wanted to show up for. While she is a little worried about how Chrysalis will feel when Thorax returns here, she's going to ease Chrysalis in first with two of her friends. In particular, a particular pair of sisters. And even when it's time to bring in Thorax, she hopes that her final guest who the queen not-so-subtly showed she had a soft spot for will balance out her bitterness towards the younger changeling leader

Starlight also brings in something with her besides her binder. It was a bouquet of flowers. She approaches the barrier Chrysalis is imprisoned behind, and gently greets Chrysalis in a similar way to how she began the last one.

Starlight: Hi again, Chrysalis. I'm back...

Chrysalis had been enjoying her time away from the crazy antics of the ponies or at least that's what she was thinking when the break first started. Despite the peace and quiet she did have, the words Discord had spoken to her continued to echo in her head these past three weeks. She couldn't help but reflect on what was said. She was changing, and that thought scared her more than anything. But she still had to keep up appearances, make it seem like she's the evil queen out for power as that's all she really knows... but even that was starting to seem wrong to her. What she thought might be an enjoyable break was now wearing thin on her, she found herself missing Starlight's lessons, a change from the sheer loneliness of the cell. That too made her question herself... was she really warming up to the ponies?

All these thoughts came to a halt when a portal opened in front of her, signaling Starlight's return. Chrysalis got up excitedly, thankful that these intrusive thoughts can be waved away for a while. But she caught herself, not wanting to show that she was actually more eager for another session, she gave the same neutral appearance as she always had.

Chrysalis: Glimmer, is it that time already? The days practically flew by since our last encounter.

She noticed the less than enthusiastic tone coming from Starlight and it was a bit of a surprise. To think she was the excited one and Starlight is the one looking grim about this.

Chrysalis: You look...less than enthused. What, already starting to give up on me? Or perhaps do you want a longer vacation away?

She asked half jokingly.as Starlight shakes her head

Starlight: Oh, it's not that I'm not enthused to get back into this. It's just... the past 3 weeks have also weighed heavily on my mind.

Besides setting this one up, I quickly investigated into what I learned from you.

Starting with Equala... or shall I say Tennae as Thorax said he and the other changelings called her. He confirmed everything you said that a kitten exactly of Equala's description was brought here, and how they had found her near Sire's Hollow. Thorax was even gracious enough to show me how Equala looked when she was all grown-up by turning into her. It's very bittersweet, but as I mentioned before... it is very much a relief that Equala lived a peaceful life here at the hive.

Chrysalis: Oh... I see. Tennae… yes that name sounds far more familiar to me than Equala. Well at least that one upstairs gave you some closure I suppose. It's as I told you, he would have known the fate of your lost kitten.

Starlight: Oh! And I brought this bouquet of flowers to leave at her grave after this session is over. But I thought... maybe I shouldn't leave all the flowers just for the grave...

Starlight activates her horn and plucks two flowers from the bouquet. And teleports them into Chrysalis cell.

Starlight: Here Chrysalis, these flowers are yours. It's admittedly only the least I can do. But even if it wasn't my fault. I'd thought I'd be nice after Discord nearly ruined everything last time. I'm still a little miffed that he still barged in when me and Fluttershy explicitly told him not to. So consider this as an apology for any misgivings in the last session, and a gift from me to start off this session right.

Chrysalis was surprised by the two flowers teleported to her. She grabs them with her own magic before they can fall to the ground. A part of her wanted to just let them fall, then stomp them out. Just to reinforce how wicked she still is… but that part of her mind has been growing quieter and quieter with each passing day. Instead of tarnishing them, she smirked and placed them in her mane as there was no place to store them.

Chrysalis: Heh, I do not see why you must apologize again. As I recall, I told you that HIS appearance here was not your doing, I could easily tell. But… thank you for the gesture.

Not wanting to have Starlight get too excited about Chrysalis being genuine, she immediately jumps to the topic of today's lesson.

Chrysalis: So who do you have visiting me this time? Given that we've done Laughter, and Kindness, you've got some other options, some more bearable than others. I have a feeling it won't be Twilight Sparkle, you're probably saving her for last... Heh heh heh… saving her for last, heheh, almost sounds like a villainous plot when worded that way~

Starlight: I'll just say that the flowers weren't just a gesture, but a clue as to which element we're covering today.

Chrysalis: You giving me flowers is a hint…? Oh… generosity… so I'm expecting Rarity then.

Starlight nods, confirming that Chrysalis is correct

Starlight: But before we bring her in. I thought it'd also be important to inform you that I've talked with Ocellus since learning what I know now from the last session.

I promise I kept my word and most of the hive doesn't know. I also made sure to ask Ocellus permission on who can know and who can't. I asked her if at the very least Thorax can know. And she agreed, but that's literally the only one who knows now. Thorax has sworn secrecy, even from his brother who we aren't certain how he would react to the news. The three of us know he's fully about the security of the hive, and we all are a little afraid Pharynx might jump into conclusions.

Chrysalis’ ears perked up as Starlight told her what happened about Ocellus and her true nature.

Chrysalis: As much as I'd rather not have that traitor know what she really is, it's better than Pharynx knowing for now. He was one of my very best, given how much he may feel about me now, I'd rather not imagine what he'd do to that girl… And you'd best hold Thorax to his word, lest he stab you in the back like he did me…

Chrysalis is fully aware that Thorax wouldn't do that, but even with her begrudging but growing fondness for some of these ponies, her feelings towards him have not changed.

Starlight: I fully trust Thorax on keeping this secret from the rest of the hive until the time is right. It's still classified information until then.

But yes, getting back on topic for the session. I will be bringing in Rarity first. Though she won't be alone

Chrysalis: That's not much of a shock, with the exception of the first day where it was just you, all the lessons were in groups. I'm guessing she'll be with her lover as well? I only assume as the previous element bearers had their own partners with them. Oooh, I know with her passion, that love will have an elegant taste~!

She says before licking her lips, actually getting excited for another meal

Chrysalis: No need to waste time, the lesson may be a pain, but the love won't be! You may bring them in."

Starlight gives a rather awkward face, and taps her two hooves together.

Starlight: Er... I'm sorry to disappoint you... but there'll be no couples coming in today. The other pony coming in with Rarity WILL have some form of love for you to taste.... but it's a family member with blood relation, not a special somepony..

And Rarity is... actually.... kinda.... still single.. a heh heh heh.... (Not to mention sensitive about that too!)

Chrysalis: …What?

Chrysalis blinks a few times, she was trying to process what she'd just heard.

Chrysalis: Familial love is fine, I will not say no to that flavor. But… out of all of you, she's the single one!? Really?

She couldn't help but laugh a bit

Chrysalis: What, was she too high maintenance? Still looking for a 'prince charming' type? I would think she'd have somepony, or even a multitude of lovers! Oh I needed a laugh!

Starlight: Wellll.... Rarity's not the only one of the Elements without a special somepony... Twilight and Rainbow Dash don't have one either... but... I do get that being she's the one who's tried the hardest to find somepony... it is a little surprising.

But maybe it's just Rarity's had too much bad luck. Between getting narcissistic jerks like Blueblood, and stallions like Trenderhoof who had the hots for her other friends. Maybe she's being extra cautious and looking for just the right one for her.

Chrysalis: You cannot blame me for seeing patterns with your guests. I just assumed that was the case but it does make more sense that not all of you would be romantically inclined. Twilight Sparkle never seemed interested from what I know and have seen, Rainbow Dash… well she does love herself… which is something I can relate to. Interesting that you didn't mention Applejack, so it seems I will have another couples meal before the end of these lessons~!

She smiled, looking forward to what's to come later down the line. The mention of Rarity's failed romantic endeavors also makes Chrysalis have an amused grin

Chrysalis: Blueblood? That wannabe prince? He wasn't even important enough for me to capture back when I tried taking Canterlot or kidnapping your friends! Oh Rarity must have poor taste then! If she starts stockpiling cats, it's too late!

She laughs again, wiping a tear from her eye.

Starlight: (Oh boy, if she teases Rarity about this, She may have second thoughts about giving the clothes I asked her to try designing for Chrysalis... not to mention she might kill me for spilling the beans about her love life... I'll make it up to her though, maybe commission a dress from her I know she'll love making for me.)

Well then... let's go ahead and bring them in then.

#genie twilight

i-dream-of-twilight-sparkle

((Filly AJ Vector by CloudyGlow))

Applejack: Since then, scientists have placed seismographs and/or gas detectors that warns us o’ the possibility o’ another gas leak at t’ swamp. As dangerous as t’ place is, it’s still ah very convenient pathway fo’ delivering mail n’ goods. But it came far too late fo’ ma n' pa, so t’ damage had been done…

Even as ah can now feel their warm touch again as spirits… that day still haunts me… y’all have no idea… how long it took fo’ me t’ even pretend ah was over it… but t’ honest truth is ah never truly was…

Ah only started t’ feel better as ah tried hiding mah feelings away… when Twilight was sayin’ that she n’ Spike could summon them. It… was like reopening ah deep scar. Ah wanted t’ believe her, but ah didn’t want t’ let myself return t’ being t’ naive filly who thought ah would still get t' hear mah parents speak and be there for me…

#Genie Twilight

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