#she had everything like i she hadn't gone down can you imagine how different things in th guild would be?

[thisisntreaver]

Scarlets like the quintessential hero. She's a legend, multiple statues around Albion after her death, the people in her home town talk about missing her, shes the first woman to win the arena, isn't ego centric, she has a biography about her, shes kind, she has a husband who loves and supports her and kids who remember her? Thats like literally everything someone in her field could want. She has it all, and she's balanced it just right to keep it.

And then Jack shows up.

[rs-hawk]

more bestie’s werewolf brother? Maybe the alt one but it’s less fluff this time and he decides he also wants a baby with you?

We’ll call Alt Bestie’s Werewolf Brother Ahiga so we can keep Liwanu and him separate. So basically the difference is with Ahiga, you had a baby with someone else and he came back into your life, not caring and wanting to be there for you and your baby. With Liwanu, he was your first and he’s still a little mean to you.

Ahiga was obsessed with your baby. Sure, it’s sweet but like, come on. The two of you aren't even dating. He hasn't even asked you out on a date. He just sort of half moved into your parents' house, camping out in the living room so if the baby woke up at any time, he could rush in and try his best to help.

You have to constantly tell him to go home. He always whines, putting his ears back and his tail dropping. It tugs at your heart strings, but you don't understand why he's even here. He hasn't brought up you two being together, or what he meant when he agreed to stay. Plus, you don't have time to go out, even though your parents are suddenly very excited to have Ahiga around all the time when they never liked him when you were kids, and your baby is only a few months old. You don't want to be gone from her for too long. Would he even be okay with a relationship like that?

One day, you decide to bite the bullet and just talk to him. "Why are you here?"

He's sitting on the floor of the nursery, cradling your baby in his arms as he feeds her. "I'm feeding her. Do you want me to do it in the kitchen?" he asks confused, looking up at you, though he doesn't stop cradling her to his chest.

"No, that's not what I meant," you say as you run your fingers through your hair. "Aggy, you said you'd stay, and I'm happy with that, but...," you trailed off, now breaking eye contact. "You haven't said anything else."

He burps the baby before setting her back in the bassinet. Neither of you say anything for several minutes before he takes your hands in his. "I wanted to wait until you were ready. I want to stay. I'm going to stay as long as you want me to. I just didn't want to push you."

You shrug, now feeling a little silly. Of course he intended on staying and being with you. Look at everything he was doing for the both of you. "It's just, you hadn't said anything, so I guess I was just feeling a little insecure. Plus, with the way I look now, I just," you shrug again, drawing your hands away from his.

He grabs you rougher than you're used to, and suddenly his lips are on yours. He kisses you deeply, almost harshly. Like the only way for him to live is to get his tongue down your throat. You're surprised, but you kiss him back enthusiastically. While the kiss is brief, when you two split apart, his eyes are hungry. You're panting.

"You have never looked more gorgeous than you do right now. You're the happiest I've ever seen you, and it radiates off of you," he murmurs, cupping your face with his large hands. "I want you more than I've ever wanted anything."

Your face flushes as you peek past him at the baby. Between the rocking and the bottle, she's fast asleep. At least for now. "You know, I was cleared at my last visit," you say quietly, feeling a little shy. "If you're careful, maybe we could, you know."

His claws extend slightly, pressing against your cheek. "Don't tease me." His voice is hoarse like he can barely croak out the words.

"I'm not, if you're gentle with me," you say with slightly more confidence.

He nods hard, scooping you up bridal style. You laugh as he rushes you to your room, basically dumping you on the bed. He babbles out how much he loves you, how he's always loved you, how this is the best thing that's ever happened to him. You can't even get a word in to tell him how you've always felt about him because he's peppering you in kisses, undressing you with touches more tender than you ever imagined he could manage.

He breaks the kiss again to softly kiss down your body with an agonizingly slow pace. You sigh with pleasure, his touch so gentle that it relaxes your body. When he gets between your legs, his licks start off firm but slow, testing how you react. You moan his name, arching your hips up to meet his lips. He holds your hips down, easing his tongue inside of you.

At first he's taking his time with you. Relishing the taste of you as he stretches you with his tongue. You're beginning to become an overstimulated mess as he slowly draws orgasm after orgasm out of you. Your fingers are tangled in his fur as you try to pry him away from you, now your turn to babble how good he feels but you need him. How much you love him and how badly you want to feel him.

"Are you sure?" his voice comes out almost as a growl as he lets you pull him away from you.

You nod hard. "Yes, yes, yes," you insist, bucking your hips slightly to punchiate your point.

He readjusts, slowly pressing himself inside of you. With every inch you're moaning, begging him for more. He hushes you with kisses. By telling you how good you are for how well you're taking him.

"Fuck," you groan as he finally bottoms out inside of you. "S'full."

"You feel so good, my love. So warm and wet for me," he mutters, licking along your neck, his teeth grazing against your delicate skin.

You shiver, knowing that for wolves, the marking spot is so sensitive. Is that what he wants? You hold his head to your neck, leaning it more to the side to give him more access. For a moment, he just keeps up his slow and steady thrusting, rhythmically pumping in and out of your messy cunt. Then, as if realizing what you're doing, he growls against your skin.

"Mine," his low voice vibrates your skin. "Mine. My mate. Mine."

He's still careful of you, but the thrusts are a bit harder. Deeper. His knot now pressed firmly against your entrance with each thrust in. All you can really do is whine and moan, rolling your hips as much as you can to meet him. As he nears his finish, his claws knead the mattress beside your head, his teeth gently nipping at your neck.

"I want to breed you. Please, please," he groans in such a needy voice that you almost cum around his cock right then. "My mate. Breed please."

You can't even answer before his cock slams inside of you, almost knocking the air out of you as his knot locks you in place together. He's panting and kissing every inch of you he can manage, his hot cum pumping deep into your obviously fertile womb.

[radioisntdead]

I don't mean to be dramatic, but the degree to which I need to know what Velvette does to shy singer reader the next day verges on pathological.

Good evening my dear! You are so real for that, I hope you enjoy!

Don't go wasting your emotion

Velvette x reader

Warnings: Power inbalance, things get wonky at the end because I was sleep deprived while writing, kinda trying out a format no idea if that's obvious or not.

Part two to this

Song used

Velvette took pride in her accomplishments,

she had a strong hold on hell's fashion industry, she had a HUGE following on all social media platforms, she was the youngest overlord, she was the self-proclaimed backbone of the Vee's, if she wanted something she would get it.

And what was something she wanted?

You! How unfortunate, or fortunate depending how you look at it.

"I wasn't jealous before we met,"

After your little stunt of practically serenading her and teasing her with the act of an almost kiss, the Vee became rather enamored with you.

Imagine her delight when you came into work the next day fully prepared to get a sort of revenge on you, although you were in a complete different outfit then the one you wore the night before, gone was the striking red and pink two piece, you now wore a muted green cardigan, blouse and some business casual work pants, the complete opposite of the night before.

If she hadn't seen you that night she might've have a tough time believing it was you.

"Now, every woman I see is a potential threat,"

Velvette kept tabs on you throughout the morning waiting for the right moment to corner you.

Unfortunately the morning was busy since a certain moth that should've gotten taken out by exorcists ages ago had another temper tantrum and wrecked havoc upon her floor, tearing apart a few models.

And that meant it took longer then she would've liked to talk to you.

"And I'm possessive, it isn't nice,"

She was extra snippy with everyone who interacted with you, her poor assistant who just needed to give you a run down on what clothes to pack and transport to a shoot next week got absolutely flamed, a coworker that held the door open for you was almost fired, another coworker that accidentally tripped you and apologized was fired.

"You've heard me saying that smoking was my only vice,"

Finally right before the clock stuck noon she managed to catch you alone, you were at your desk writing something down.

"But now it isn't true,"

You let out a squeak as your chair, with you in it, was spun around.

Velvette stared down at you.

"Now everything is new,"

You were a complete and utter fool to think she wouldn't recognize you, and now you were paying the price for your foolery.

"And all I've learned has overturned,"

Cold panic filled you, immediately assuming she wanted to end your afterlife, you managed to duck under her arm, slide out of your chair and what I can only describe as a sad attempt at an army crawl mixed with an undignified shimmy but it got you free.

Temporarily anyways.

"I beg of you,"

Velvette quickly caught you pinning you against a wall, your eyes darted around as you felt her fingers gently hold your chin like you had done to her the night before.

"Don't go wasting your emotion,"

She leaned in.

"Lay all your love on me,"

And planted a kiss right on your pretty lips.

"It was like shooting a sitting duck,"

That kiss is what sealed your fate, because from that day Velvette began showing clear favoritism for you.

"A little small talk, a smile and baby I was stuck,"

Coming to visit you whenever she had free time, or on your breaks, demanding that you go on lunch dates with her.

"I still don't know what you've done with me,"

She somehow found your awkward demeanor to be rather charming, sure it would be nice for you to ditch the whole timid thing but that wasn't a deal breaker, perhaps within time you'd become that confident person she saw on stage that managed to completely and utterly enamour her full-time.

"A grown-up woman should never fall so easily,"

Velvette showed up for each and every one of your performances, causing a racket in order to show up if needed.

She personally designed clothes for you to wear during your club performances, making sure they fit you perfectly and that they were flexible enough that you could move around with ease.

"I feel a kind of fear,"

It sent tingles down her spine whenever you got on stage and switched from the timid little thing you were normally into someone beaming of pure confidence, she loved when you would blow kisses or anything of the like to her from your place on stage.

"When I don't have you near,"

She would film your shows and post them over her socials, often posting pictures of the two of you, particularly with her arm wrapped around you in some way, she quite liked having her arm wrapped around your waist.

"Unsatisfied, I skip my pride,"

Velvette would often take you out on all types of dates, her favorites were shopping ones, she could spoil you with anything your little heart so desired, or at least she could try too, you had a way of uno reversing her and paying for her instead.

Thank goodness you got paid for your little singing performances because you'd be screwed otherwise.

"I beg you dear,"

Was there a large power inbalance between the two of you, as not only an overlord and an average sinner but as Employee and Boss.

Yes, yes there was.

"Don't go wasting your emotion,"

But did Velvette care about that at all?

"Lay all your love on me,"

No she didn't give a shit.

But your coworkers did!

"Don't go sharing your devotion, lay all your love on me,"

You weren't naive towards the whispers and pointed or concerned looks directed towards you, you were pretty sure some of your co-workers and friends had a mock funeral for you.

Velvette quite liked you and she refused to let you leave.

"I've had a few little love affairs,"

Sure she had a couple of flings here and there, both when she was alive and after she died, but no one was quite like you, timid and awkward in the daylight and a shining ball of confidence in the night.

Like hell's version of Hannah Montana or a werewolf.

"They didn't last very long, and they've been pretty scarce,"

It went without saying that Velvette was a very jealous woman, she was never one for sharing

Not clothes, not items, and especially not you!

"I used to think that was sensible,"

Sure she technically shared things with the other Vee's like living space, utilities, employees that weren't you.

"It makes the truth even more incomprehensible,"

She didn't like that whenever you performed on stage others looked at you with such lust and desire that it would make the radio demon himself run away with disgust.

"'Cause everything is new,"

She made a point to post pictures of the two of you, together, usually with her hand, arm, leg or something of hers on top of you, just to show all of hell that you belonged to her.

She had you in her sinstagram bio and everything.

And she made you put her in your sinstagram bio despite you barely using the media.

"And everything is you,"

Brushing over that, Your relationship with her was filled with rather sweet moments.

"And all I've learned has overturned,"

She made matching outfits for the two of you, mostly tailoring to her own styles and colors as opposed to yours, it's not her fault she liked seeing you in her colors!

"What can I do,"

She practically moved you into the Vee's tower, making sure you were no more then a three minute walk away.

"Don't go wasting your emotion,"

Valentino once asked if he could borrow you for a film, saying that you could be a star, after all some people had a thing for dorks like you!

"Lay all your love on me,"

She ended up chasing him down with a fork.

"Don't go sharing your devotion,"

And ended up posting a few videos of his little temper tantrums much to Vox's chagrin, that was not good for the Vee's reputation!

"Lay all your love on me,"

But it did make a point to the other two Vees that you were off limits, Although Vox did try to get you to agree to sing a jingle for a product of his.

"Don't go wasting your emotion,"

You were back at that same club you managed to seduce Velvette at, singing another song you enjoyed while alive.

"Lay all your love on me,"

You wore a sparkling pink outfit, heart motifs were evident on it, Velvette stared at you from across the club with pride.

Look at you! Singing your heart out while wearing one of her outfits.

"Don't go sharing your devotion,"

You leaned against the mic stand, half lidded eyes on her.

"Lay all your love on me,"

She had taken to keeping a safe distance away from the stage during your performances, not wishing for a repeat of your nimble fingers under her chin as you sang to her.

She'd rather keep that in private.

"Don't go wasting your emotion,"

you blew a kiss at her.

"Lay all your love on me."

What Velvette wanted, she got.

And she got you, and you supposed you had her as well, who would've thought that performance of yours would've resulted in this?

Good evening folks! My apologies for this being delayed! I hope you enjoyed it! Also as the song was selected per the poll and this one won, y'all picked good because the other two of the other options were going to be angsty, anywho!

as per usual thank you for tuning in! Hope you tune in tomorrow for Wednesday angst with a certain Angel!

[just-dreaming-marvel]

Are you team cap or iron man?

woah, loaded question lol

I believe that there were better ways to go about it from both sides.

I'm going to answer this with mostly Captain America Civil War in mind.

So here we go... (good luck)

I believe that Steve was incredibly selfish as soon as Bucky became involved and dragged people down with him. (Steve's actually a really selfish guy if you actually look at everything, but that's a whole other rant...)

I believe that Steve was too emotional and wasn't thinking fully since Peggy passed and Bucky became involved. He couldn't see past himself.

I believe that Tony signed the Accords due to all the guilt and he was honestly trying to make things better.

I believe that if they had ALL signed the Accords, they would have been able to negotiate and get the Accords amended over time as problems arose.

I believe that if they had all signed the Accords, the United Nations would have come to realize the mistake they made in the Accords and either amended or dissolved. Instead, Thanos came and the United Nations were still too busy hunting down the fugitive Avengers! (Ross, I'm looking at you...)

I believe that if they had ALL not signed the Accords, they would have been able to negotiate and figure out a new plan together with the governments. Though, I do believe that this way would have gotten them all in jail together at one point. (Can you imagine? All of them in Raft together? What chaos would that bring? Ross would have definitely retired after that.)

I believe that Steve didn't have any right to keep Tony in the dark about the truth about how Bucky killed Howard and Maria. (Like, when did he find out? How did he find out? Did Sam know too since he was helping search for Bucky? Did Natasha, Maria Hill, and Nick Fury know the truth? I hate them all if they knew and kept it from Tony.)

I believe that Ross was so against the Avengers, that he helped push the Accords and offered to be the one to break the news. I believe that he purposely reached out to Tony first, knowing that Tony felt all the guilt from every incident, and knew that he could get him to sign it. (Ross is the real bad guy here. He is the worst.)

I believe that Steve was right to not want to trust the government. (Who would after the fall of SHIELD?)

I don't believe that Tony fully trusted the Accords or the government, but understood that it was a step to making things right.

I believe that the Avengers should be held accountable and kept in check. (Even Tony agreed and he was the one to create Ultron!)

I believe that if Steve had gone to Tony before the airport incident with proof that it was a setup, things would have been different.

I believe that if the Civil War hadn't happened, Thanos would have been defeated in Infinity War.

I believe that Steve's viewpoint of everything being black and white (right or wrong), is not a good way of viewing things and caused a lot of this.

I believe that Steve doesn't feel enough guilt for the damage he and the other Avengers have done.

I believe that Tony feels too much guilt for the damage he and the other Avengers have done.

I believe that locking them in a room together until they figured it out, would have solved the issue. (Seriously, Natasha, why didn't you do this?)

I believe that Steve fully took advantage of Sharon and should have looked after her. She had to be on the run, alone, and then never got pardoned. (He also only kissed her because she was related to Peggy.)

I believe that in a real world scenario, Tony is the most correct in his believes. (Can you imagine if the Avengers were real and New York got demolished every other Thursday? Like, what would insurance look like? You cannot tell me that people would still be living in New York if the Avengers were real. Or living any place that constantly gets attacked like that.)

BUT after all that, I am Team Iron Man. Tony Stark is my main man and has successful character development. He truly changed where Steve remained selfish (to the point where he left!).

If you decide to respond to this, please be kind. We all have the right to our own opinions.

(I added this to my opinions masterlist...)

[miasmaghoul]

Mushy May - Day 8

Prompt: First time

Rating: Mature, probably Pairing: Rain/Cumulus Contains: first time nerves and awkwardness, reassurance, no sex - just the lead up Word Count: ~1.3k

Summary: Rain comes to Cumulus for the first time with a secret. She's only too happy to listen.

Cumulus smiles at the ghoul before her, running gentle fingers through Rain’s dark curls. He’s breathing heavy, his cheeks gone pink, and Cumulus can’t help the fond feeling in her chest. His hand rests on her thigh, tapping out a restless rhythm.

“You’re shaking, sweetheart,” she coos, stroking a sharp cheekbone. “Are you nervous?”

Rain offers a shy nod, nuzzling her palm. He’s been quiet all evening, ever since she'd answered his timid knock with a wide smile and a warm greeting. She understands it - this is uncharted territory for the both of them. He's wide-eyed, jittery, chewing his lip. Little things that speak to a level of inexperience she hadn't expected to see from him, especially when Rain was the one who had asked for this in the first place.

Not that she didn't want it, mind. She's spent more evenings than she'd care to admit thinking of the lanky ghoul at her side. Imagining those beautiful hands gliding over her skin the way they do on his bass. Seeking out her most sensitive spots to use to his advantage. Imagining how his skilled fingers and silver tongue would work her into a frenzy before he decided she had earned his cock. 

But when she had opened her door to find Rain staring at the floor, hands clutched together  in front of him, her vision for the evening had shifted. 

Cumulus generally finds herself gravitating towards being something of a pillow princess. Adored by her partner (or partners), worshipped, treated like a queen. She loves it, to be certain, but every once in a while it's nice to have a little something different. 

And she's finding that, tonight, seeing the normally cool, collected Rain so adorably flustered is really doing something for her.

"Can you tell me why, sweet pea?" Rain's eyes slip shut as her thumb grazes his lower lip, dimpled from his own fangs. "I promise I don't bite. Well, unless you want me to, of course."

That gets a soft suggestion of a laugh out of the ghoul, Rain shifting a little and giving her thigh a squeeze. He looks gorgeous in the low light of her room, those cerulean eyes sparkling with want and trepidation in equal measure. They haven't so much as kissed yet, but a quick glance at the ghoul's lap proves his interest. 

"Sorry," he murmurs, sighing when Cumulus's hand slips down to rest at the side of his neck. "It's just…I don't…” He looks down at his hand, pale against the black of her leggings, and Cumulus feels him go warmer. “This is new. For me."

"For me too," she reminds him, her other hand coming to rest atop his. "But there's a first time for everything, right?"

Curiously, Rain stiffens at her words. He lets out a shaky breath and Cumulus makes a questioning sound, a soft chirp. Rain doesn't seem to want to look up, and while his shyness is oddly endearing she certainly doesn't want him to be uncomfortable for their first time together. She hooks two fingers under his chin, coaxing the ghoul to face her again. When he does, Cumulus finds him red as anything, beads of sweat forming at his temples. She offers a low trill of concern, gathering his hot face in her small hands.

"Rain, what's wrong?" He's looking at her in a way Cumulus can't parse. He looks…lost, she supposes. Something in her likes that too, but she pushes it aside for now. "Talk to me, love. I need to know what's going on in that pretty head of yours."

Rain stares at her for what feels like hours, opening and closing his mouth like a fish out of water. Cumulus doesn't prompt him further, simply swipes her thumbs over his flushed cheeks and waits. Slowly, the tension in Rain's shoulders begins to release, his head going heavy in her hands, and Cumulus really can't help but notice he's still very obviously hard behind his zipper. It's impossible to miss. But still,

"We don't have to do this, raincloud," she assures, voice low and soothing. "You know that, right?" Rain's eyes plead for something, but he gives her a small nod, his throat audibly clicking when he swallows. 

"I know, Lus. I want to, I promise -"

"I can tell," she teases, nudging his knee with her own. It has the desired effect, Rain's eyes fluttering and a soft sound escaping his lips. He huffs out a sigh and leans into her touch, the hand on her thigh coming up to nestle in her snowy curls. 

"It's not just my first time with you," Rain says, a whisper-soft admission that has her stomach swooping. She knows for a fact Rain is far from virginal - Dew and Swiss never keep their mouths shut about their romps with him - but the way he's talking, the way he's looking at her… "It's…I…"

Rain cuts himself off with a broken sigh and before Cumulus knows what's happening he's surging forward, slamming their mouths together with all the delicacy of a bull in a china shop. It's hard and rushed, desperate in a way she's never quite felt before and all the more intoxicating for it. Rain pulls back after a few messy seconds, and she can't help but smile at the way her lipstick has left red smudges behind. She opens her mouth to speak, but Rain beats her to it.

"I've never slept with a ghoulette."

It comes out in a rush, Rain's words breathy and quiet, and all at once Cumulus understands his nerves. It still takes a minute to really sink in, to realize what he's telling her, but the moment it settles into her skin Cumulus finds herself throbbing. 

"Oh, sweet boy," she breathes, getting hold of Rain's shirt and tugging until their foreheads rest against one another. Until they're breathing the same air. "That's what's got you so worked up?"

"I just…I don't want to disappoint you," he admits, fidgeting with her hair. Cumulus smiles so wide her cheeks hurt, getting her hands on Rain's shoulders and gently pushing him back. She expects him to try to hide, but he doesn't. Just watches, searches her face for something he certainly won't find. 

"Rain, you could never disappoint me," she lilts, kind and reassuring. "No matter what. I promise." 

Cumulus pulls him back in, and the kiss they share then is much less urgent. Gentle, even. Rain's hand tightens in her hair, the other coming to rest on her neck, and Cumulus hums into it. She gives his lip a tentative lick and Rain opens up with no hesitation; he tastes of petrichor and peppermint, sweet and fresh. Cumulus tugs at his lip when they separate, a teasing press of her fangs, and Rain makes the prettiest keening sound. 

"Are you sure?" He sounds far too breathless, and when Cumulus glances back at his lap she's greeted by the beginnings of a wet spot. It matches the one in her panties. She nods, pushing down the rather frantic urgency between her thighs in favor of gathering his face in her palms again. 

"We'll take it slow, okay? You can take your time with me. Learn what feels good. Does that sound alright?" 

Rain whimpers, nods, and when she slides from her place on the edge of the mattress to settle between his knees he sounds like he's been punched in the gut. He looks so…innocent.

Cumulus strokes his thighs, not missing the insistent way Rain's cock kicks against his zipper. She reaches for the closure with a lascivious little smile, adoring the way Rain's mouth hangs open while he watches her move. 

“Don’t worry, angelfish,” she croons, resting her palm over his bulge, “I’m a good teacher."

If Rain cums the second she wraps those manicured fingers around his slick length, no one but the two of them will ever know.

[the-fiction-witch]

HoneyBear

Media IRL

Character Thomas Brodie Sangster

Couple Thomas X Reader

Rating Sweet + Sad

Concept Helping

Warnings Depression and self-harm

I was admittedly a little nervous. But I had to do it. I'd been away filming in Australia for about nine months without a break to come home it was amazing as working always is especially doing something this big and honestly this good. Even if I had definitely had a few big waves of homesickness the sort I never had before after all my years in this job. 

I guess that was because of y/n. 

I'd always had girlfriends of course and a lot of the time they were always who I missed the most. But y/n's different. 

We'd been friends for years and eventually after a lot of pushing and nervous dates we became a couple. And I've never been happier, she was everything I wanted and everything I needed. Honestly I wanted to marry her but we haven't even been dating for a year. I imagine everyone would go a little mad if I tried to marry her now. 

But I was worried. She's been dealing with alot and I know she hasn't been doing well, she wasn't that great before I left and I made a point to make sure even though I was literally the other side of the planet I wanted to make sure I called, texted her, left her messages and sent her home presents trying to make sure she didn't feel abandoned while I was gone. 

Of course now I'm home I wanted nothing else in the world then to see her. Even if Jack had warned me when he picked me up she that she hadn't been good. Apparently there was some issues with her boss and she went down a bit of a depressive spiral while I was gone. It did unfortunately happen to her alot but usually I'd be here to help her or atleast talk her down on the phone if I was away. I felt awful for abandoning her while I was gone but I had cleared my calendar now I'm back so I could see her and hopefully take care of her as best I could. 

I didn't know just how bad she would be. I didn't wanna ask and I doubt jack really knew anyway, I know about her boss and about the situation so I wasn't imagining it being good. 

I arrived at her little London apartment on the first floor of what was once a basic three floor London town house since it was split by her landline into three one floor apartments. She has the ground floor meaning she also has a small back garden. I went up to her little purple door giving it a firm rhythmic knock holding the strap of my leather bag as I waited on her doorstep. No answer, that's strange? So I knocked again this time a little louder. Perhaps she was in the garden and couldn't hear me, or maybe stood beside her impossibly loud kettle. But still no answer. So I grabbed my phone and called her after about four rings. She answered, sounding quiet and snuffy like she'd been crying "hello?"

"Hey honey I'm outside" 

"Ohh I'm coming" she says hanging up the phone I waited a minute more and she pulled open the door, she stood on her door mat in her little bear claw slippers, long blue gingham pj pants that I'm convinced I once owned but clearly not anymore, her extra large pokemon hoodie with snorlax on the front, her hair up in a messy matted bun with one of her usual spotted fabric ties to hold it up. No make up her face red, dirty and a little spotty. But I didn't care I was so happy to see her 

"Hi honeybear" I smiled giving her a tight squeeze and a kiss "I've missed you"

"I missed you too Thomas" she says even if she didn't cuddle me back

"Can I come in?" I asked given we had been on her doorstep for a good minute or two now 

"Uhhhhh… well I guess" she sighed letting me in shutting the door behind me as I headed into her little apartment.

I did my best not to react. In anyway. As I know that would make her feel worse. The kitchen was full of dishes and cups and bags of trash by the back door. The floor was dirty and dusty with clothes and bags littered across it. A dominos pizza box with God only knows how old half a pizza in it. Her bed unmade things all over her bedroom and bathroom too. Everything dirty, dusty and messy the whole place has a smell of old food and unwashed… everything it actually seemed as if she hadn't even cleaned or hoovered since I left and honestly by the look and smell of her I'm not sure she'd showered either. And even though the place was a tip she just pushed some laundry to the side and sat down on the sofa with a blanket and her little build a Bear brown teddy wearing bee clothes I made her when we first started dating.

"Uuuuuuuhhh… fuck. I uhhh I didn't think it would be this bad"

"Sorry"

"No no it's uhhh" I began sitting in the chair as best I could "y/n? How'd it get like this?"

"I don't know. Just did I guess everything kinda just exploded and I had to stop and… now I don't really know how to start again,"

"Ohh you poor thing. You see that it's bad right?"

"I see it. I just… don't know where to begin"

"Well sitting in all this isn't going to help I know it's hard sometimes physically impossible but in here now. And I promise I'm going to help as much or as little as you want me too" I told her giving her head a kiss "okay?"

"Okay" she nods 

"That's my girl" I cooed "first things first trash because trash is easy" I smiled "I'll do that okay, give you some space to breathe" 

I got up and began gathering things up and throwing them away or into the washing pile In Front of her machine just giving it a once over to give us some room to focus until I got to the table "I'm going to be brave here. How long has this been here?"

"I don't remember"

"When did you last order pizza?"

"Yesterday"

"This has been here longer the yesterday"

"Three weeks ago" 

"Oh my god. Okay," I sighed quickly getting it into a bag without touching or breathing close to it and she began to cry "whoa whoa what's wrong?" I asked giving her a hug as she cried 

"I'm sorry"

"What are you sorry for?"

"Your mad at me"

"I'm not mad at you, I'm not angry at your honeybear I promise I'm not. I'm not angry with you I'm worried about you. You could have gotten so sick just from having that in your living room. You could have gotten really sick." I told her 

"I'm sorry I don't know how it all got like this"

"It's alright I know how hard it is sometimes. How about you take buzzy and get a little nap okay" I told her handing her the bear

"But that's-"

"Please. Get some rest don't worry your head it'll do you good" I told her she nods and slithered away to her room so I tucked her in and gave her a kiss "have a nice nap my little honeybear I'll take care of you" 

I shut her door quietly and waiting till I could hear her sleeping and I cleaned up everything I could throwing away all the trash putting on a few loads of laundry, I dusted and hoovered and even did all her dishes putting them all away for her I even put on one of her nice wax melts to make the place smell nice. Often sneaking into her room to clean around her bed for her. Even setting her blankets and pillows on the sofa with her little bears so we could cuddle later. She was still asleep so I got my phone and ordered some groceries for delivery as she had no food in the house now, filling her fridge and cupboards to the brim with her favorite snacks, her favorite foods, favorite drinks and making sure to put a bunch of her favorite ice pops in the freezer for her. Once all sorted I smiled and went to her bedroom "honeybear? Helloooooo?" I whispered crawling into her bed peppering her and her teddy with kisses "ummmm hello" I smiled as she began to stir 

"Hello Thomas" she cracked a small smile 

"Did you have a nice nap?"

"I did"

"Hey, how's about I run you a beautiful bubble bath? Hey? I know you love your bubble baths when did you last have one?"

"I can't remember"

"Uhhh not to be rude y/n how long has it been since you had a shower?"

"I honestly don't remember"

"Yeah didn't wanna say anything but… yeah. I can tell you on your period cause of smells right now"

"I'm not"

"Ohh god. Okay I will run you a nice very bubbly bath" I told her"and maybe we wash buzzy?" 

"Okay" she sighed handing over the bear which I quickly put in the machine to wash and dry so it would be ready when she got out her bath I went to her bathroom and ran her a nice hot bath with muscle soak, bubble bath, btah salts, bath… potion? Whatever it is it's going in, all of it lavender or flower scented to keep it all in theme, I got her two bath bombs the first an extra large purple lust bath bomb so scented I'm convinced I may have eaten some I tasted so much on my tounge in fact the bath bomb in her bath the wax melt in the living room were having a scent fight. And I also got her a nice lilac love heart that I sat on her little bath bridge with her scrunchie and her favourite fancy body wash she usually only uses for going out, as well as her honey shampoo and conditioner as they always made her smile and of course they were the reason I called her my honey bear as on an early date as we cuddled up her hair smelt so much of honey I was actually convinced she may have put honey on her head and we laughed about it and had some honey on toast ever since I'd called her honeybear. Once the bath was run and perfect I fetched her "come on little bear time for your bath"

"Fine" she sighed slowly coming in 

"You get in and relax while I change your bed okay"

"You don't have to-"

"Get in the tub. Or I'll sheep dip you" I warn her 

"Noooo" she whines

"Go on then" I told her so she began to get changed admittedly I couldn't help but look at her having missed her so badly while I was gone but i gave her some privacy and headed back to her bedroom stripping off her bed and immediately three the sheets away I'm not going to try and wash them just throw them away I'll buy her new ones. I went back tidied her room for her flipping the mattress and making the bed with her favorite bedding the little duvet cover and pillow cases white on one side with little bees doing loop the loops and the other side dark orange honeycomb pattern making her bed up with her blankets and pillows and a special place for her bear once he was done in the Washing machine. I imagined y/n would be back by now but she hadn't so I went to the bathroom seeing her sat in the water surrounded by bubbles her legs pulled to her chest 

"Ohh y/n" I went over getting a little chair and moving to sit beside her tub at first rubbing her skin with the bubbles "would you like some help?" I asked and she nods "okay, take your ribbon out and we'll wash your hair"

"I did" she says handing me the ribbon she had in her hair and yet her hair hadn't moved 

"Okay" well that's a problem.

I got her brush and her conditioner as I would definitely be needing it slowly but surely Washing her hair using her nice shampoo and conditioner brushing the matted knots out of her hair it was clear she'd put it up like this just after I left and hadn't done anything with it since. She was often teary but I always have her kisses and reassured her I imagine it likely hurt alot as I brushed and brushed and brushed using pretty much the whole bottle of conditioner. "There we go all beautiful again" I cooed giving her cheek a kiss as I finished with her hair "hey all pretty. Now you can have your nice … well now lukewarm bath" I told her gently and playfully helping her as she slowly came out of this sadness I was stopped however upon seeing her arms and her thighs that she had done her best to keep hidden all this time I didn't mention in even if I knew some where fresh I just held her hand and brought her arm over giving her skin a million kisses 

"Are you upset with me?" She asks

"No. No I'm not it's okay. I just wish you'd role me you wh re feeling that bad. Please I don't want things to get this bad again I'm not upset I'm not blaming you. Just please of it gets this bad please tell me. You know if have thrown home months earlier if id known you were feeling this bad" 

"I know. I didn't want to be any trouble"

"It's no trouble really. I'd rather you tell me so I can come home and help you rather then… having to clean up the aftermath. I love you you know I do. hey. my little honeybear. I'm not going anywhere not till your better"

"What if I'm never any better"

"Then I'm not going anywhere. Ever again." I told her "your more important that my job. Always." I told her "you enjoy the rest of your bath I'll get you some nice clean clothes and your teddy okay? Then we'll make cheesy pie," I told her giving her one more kiss and heading out

"Thomas?"

"Yeah?" 

"Thank you"

"Your welcome"

"I love you very much*

"I love you more" 

[aroninshonour]

Hello!! :)

Could you do 🐍(fav kind of serpentine), 💎 (fave realm) and 📺(fave season and why) for the ninjago ask game? Thank you :D

Fhskfjqkfjej YESS !!

Okok so my fav kind of serpentine is definitely the Constricti, I think they are so cool and and and I love the blacks and the oranges and the grays and dhfkwjtkwjtjektje (I have a thing for like. The ground. Or like. Earth themes I guess)

My favorite Realm is definitely the Departed Realm, idk it just kinda...draws me in, in a way- yk? Like, uhm- ghosts and the death that surrounds it is interesting to me I suppose. It's ghosts have a ton of different stories too, and I like to imagine that the Departed realm can be exactly what a ghost wants it to be, at least in that ghosts view of it, if ykwim?

Controversial opinion, but it's Skybound. It's kinda always been my favorite season, even with the addition of other seasons after it.

Skybound, to me at least, gives the characters development that they needed, even if it's pretty much ignored after the season.

Jay, making the mistakes he does in the beginning, is able to learn from them and makes himself better about it by the end.

Nya is able to express how she feels about, well, everything. How she's always been defined by someone else, how she's just considered the 'girl ninja'. Her and Jay getting to have that talk is something really special that I think will always hold something special too it.

Nadakhan, although I hope he dies horrid painful deaths an infinate amount of times over, was an absolutely amazing villian. He did everything wrong in the right way. He was legit just an amazing villian, the trickery, the hostages, his demands, torture, the way he *knew* how to break someone, the control he has over basically everything is terrifying. All the way to the end he was a great bad guy, he had everything under control...until he didn't. Until he let his guard down after he got his infinite wishes. I could go on for hours talking about him but I'm not going too-)

This season we got reveals about Jay and his parents, we got a team up we never thought would happen, we got characters too (ECHOECHOECHOECHO) I dunno it just did so many things right. Although I don't like that they randomly made Dareth sexist- that was dumb -

So yes, Skybound has a ton of things wrong with it, but it also has so much to love about it, at least it does to me. (So do the other seasons but this ain't about them)

And the last wish Jay made, I know tons of people hate that because the show just ignored all the character development and all, but honestly I don't know what else he could've done. If he hadn't made that wish, and he chose to make it so Nadakhan wasn't a dijjn, then Nya would've died(No one wants that. I hope...) and Lloyd probably would've continued to get older because the wish was never actually reversed(Unless Nadakhans magic being gone reverses it but idk...)

So yeah, Skybound has its flaws and it's got it's good bits, But I love it regardless. (Prime Empire is second by the way...damn my favs are all Jay and Nya suffering...crazy)

Oh and also I think they should've waited a season or two before putting Nya and Jay together again, maybe could've gave them a little recovery arc and then putting them together......but they didn't which is sad but ykw whatever it's fineeeeeeeeee...I guess

[welldonebeca]

screamer (2)

Summary: Sansa finds a little (Just some mindless Dom!Sansa x Sub!Jon porn.) WC: 1.1k words Warnings:  Sex talk.

masterlist

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Sansa tilted her head at the latex suit, unsure for a moment.

Should she get a larger side?

She was pretty tall.

Well, not too tall. Kinda tall.

Tall enough that some pants were short on her legs.

And did Jon like black on her? He did like it on himself, but... on her?

Did they have more options than just black and red?

She had googled a lot of things since talking to Jon, and bothered him a little bit with an endless amount of 'do you like this?' questions.

But she hadn't asked him about latex.

Maybe she should get a black dress instead of the suit. So she wouldn't worry about her legs.

Maybe...

Well, Jon liked her softness. Could she be soft wearing that?

Sansa liked having him being mean to her, but Jon was different. He liked a soft dom, sweet touches and cuddles and praises.

She had seen a video of Ygritte with a guy blindfolded, and she wasn't that soft. But she was good.

Really fucking good.

It was what had made her move, seeing her.

The idea of Jon tied with his hands back, begging her for an orgasm while she edged him...

Gods, it was the hottest thing she ever imagined that week, and it just didn't leave her mind at all.

So she got little things for him.

They had gone to that sex shop before, but this was her first time alone, and the first time she stepped there looking for things that were specifically for him.

"Hey," Ros walked to her side. "Can I help you? You look kinda lost."

She turned to her, grateful for a familiar face.

She was the owner, there was nothing Ros didn't know.

"I need stuff," she told her.

The shop owner raised her eyebrows to her.

"I do think you would," Ros noted. "Or wouldn't be in a shop."

That made her face flush.

"Is it for you or for pouty, dark and handsome?" she asked, a bit more playful.

Sansa chuckled.

"It's for my partner," she confirmed. "I want to... well... do a little something, you know?"

Ros hummed a bit.

"Blindfold?" she offered. "Some satin to tie his hands..."

"Yeah," she raised her basket with the second option. "And... hm... trying to pick the suit or the dress."

There was a hum by her side, and Ros pulled the black latex dress from the shelf, checking the size and giving it to her.

"Try it at home, come back if it's not your size," she told her. "Let your hair all down, put some dark makeup and lipstick... it's gonna go a long way."

She nodded along with the instructions.

"And high heels!" Ros added quickly. "He looks like one who'd love to see you in high heels."

It made her flush a little bit.

He did, yeah.

Ros grabbed a fleshlight, and a box with a rubber ring in it.

"You attach this to the top of your vibrator," she told him. "And you know the rest of it."

Oh?! She didn't know that was possible!

She stopped and checked her basket as Sansa waited.

"Start slow," Ros told her. "It's enough. You don't need a lot, just the right energy."

She nodded slowly. Okay.

The right energy.

She could do that.

"How is he in bed usually?" Ros asked as she walked her to the register.

And with anyone else, she would be embarrassed to talk about it, but Ros?

Ros was different. It was like she could tell her anything.

"He likes praise," she told her. "A lot, actually. Even when he is being mean."

"And you love him being mean," Ros noted.

Sansa flushed, giggling a little.

"Yeah," she confessed. "He lovs hearing me beg for it. For everything."

She squinted.

"And he is a switch, I presume?" Ros asked.

Sansa nodded, and her store owner friend walked behind her counter.

"Mommy kink?" she asked, setting up her computer.

Well... he hadn't said anything affirmative when she asked him about it, but his face did light up.

"Maybe?" she asked. "I'm not sure."

"I am," Ros took the basket. "Well... half-sure. Either mommy or mistress. You should edge him, it'll make it spill from his lips really quick."

Sansa smiled.

"It's what I'm doing!" she told her.

Ros grinned largely.

"Good. If you want to be mean, then you set yourself a goal number and don't tell him. Give him a break when he makes it halfway," she instructed her. "All the meta talk, food water, cuddles... praise him to oblivion, too, I think it'll keep him on edge."

Sansa nodded along. Okay, yes, that sounded good.

"When he meets the goal, ruin his orgasm," she continued. "And then go back into stimulating him. It'll make him scream."

Scream.

That was her goal, yes.

"Of course, if he is into that," Ros added. "Not everyone is a fan of that."

Sansa nodded.

She had asked him about that, and he wasn't against it.

And they had their safewords, too.

"Keep yourself firm," she told her. "But don't push yourself out of your limits, it's supposed to be something you both enjoy. Sometimes the simplest things are the best experiences."

That was sweet, but Sansa hesitated anyway, still worried.

"I don't know," she pulled her card from her wallet. "It's my first time. I might at it."

Ros shook her head.

"Trust me, I think you'll be just fine," she assured her. "You've seen him do it plenty of times, you have the blueprint. Give it your spin, keep communication open, and it'll be a great new experience."

She left with that in mind, driving back home.

It was the weekend, and Jon was grocery shopping. She needed to be quick.

So she put the dress on quickly, and if it didn't fit, then she would have to stale him while she got a different size.

It looked perfect.

She checked her phone, knowing he was going to text her when he got into the car, and exhaled in relief. No text. Good.

Sansa organised the room before running to the shower and cleaning herself thoroughly, smothering herself in her lotion and putting on his favourite perfume before her phone vibrated.

Jon was on his way.

She ran back to the room and put on a little bit of makeup and straightened her hair to make it look nice and shiny and slick, and put on the red lipstick that made Jon's face pink whenever she wore it.

"Sansa?" he called from the door. "I'm home."

She opened their bedroom door the littlest bit, looking at him through the crack.

"Can you put the groceries away first, please?" she asked. "I'm busy."

He stopped by the kitchen.

"Good busy?" Jon asked.

"Yeah," she told him. "Just... not gonna remember to put the ice cream in the fridge if you see it first."

There was silence on the other side for a moment.

"Okay," he agreed.

…

“screamer” was posted on Patreon on April. To read it now before anyone else, subscribe to my page! It’s just $2 a month and I post six times a week.

[keithisbae1]

Modern Sasuke X Shippuden Sakura - Part 2

Sakura learns to adjust to this new life but she keeps getting excited over the smallest of things. She’s in awe at all the cars and trains and Sasuke would either have to kick her lightly for her overreaction or in some instances like when their traveling by train and Sasuke uses the ticket to go through the gates, Sakura is still standing there in awe at how this technology works. So, he has to go back through to drag her with him because otherwise, they’ll never get anywhere. 

It’s not her fault that they have such advanced technology, she doesn’t even know how to make posts for social media and unfortunately, the Sakura in this world would post a lot. So Sasuke has to help or be the one in charge of her social media accounts to make them look less suspicious to their friends. During all this, he accidentally discovers his Sakura’s alt-Twitter account where she would either rant about her bad day, what she's been doing or about him. More specifically about her feelings for him. 

Things like how she struggled to be so close to him now when her feelings never changed. How nice it was that she felt confident enough to call him a friend but that her remaining feelings would ruin it.

It was true they had gotten closer over the years, Sasuke was the only one who knew of her nightmares that still plagued her when the three of them were ambushed by the group from Sound. How vivid they were and that's when he found her underneath the cherry blossom tree. How she felt content and peaceful. And it was no secret how much she liked him over the years, even if her fawning over him had died down. He wouldn't have imagined that she was feeling like this and it felt wrong to scroll further and pry into what was essentially her diary, but he needed to know. Then when he looked at the other Sakura, who no doubt had been through a lot worse than any of them here could imagine. Sasuke found himself missing her. ‘She’s right here.’ He tried to tell himself but that wasn’t the truth. “I need to go.” He told her leaving Sakura by the cherry blossom tree. She looked sad but let him be, knowing there was no point in talking to him.

Sakura wasn’t any different. She misses her friends, her family, she knows Naruto needs her to get their Sasuke back. Wondering if she would get something like this with her Sasuke, but then when he has his moments like this of leaving her without warning. Without saying anything as to why… again. She gets flashbacks from the night when he left the village… and she hates it. No matter where she is, Sasuke always leaves. Why her? What did she do? Maybe it was best to be the first one to go? 

It’s not like this place was her home, that they were her real family or friends. And spending time with them takes time out of her day to get back home. 

~~~

She goes to school the next day, like she usually does except she left without Sasuke asking ‘her parents’ to tell him she’ll meet him there. This had never happened so when Mebuki tried to ask if they had a fight Sakura laughed it off and just mentioned she needed to get to school early. Her parents didn’t pry further.

~~~ “You could have waited for me.” Sakura wouldn't have imagined he'd be able to get here so quickly. She hadn't even gone through the school gates. He was panting too, did he really run all this way to catch up with her. 

Regardless Sakura had made up her mind. “I think it’s best if you don’t get involved.” This was not what Sasuke had imagined. He had an inkling something was bothering her, that she was angry but where did this come from? 

“I appreciate your help and everything you’ve done for me so far but… this isn’t my home. I can’t keep pretending to be her. I need more time to look for clues, something anything. To go back home.” “I can help, it’s better to have two heads than one-” 

“NO! I mean, I need to do this by myself. You need to focus on your own life, I’ll figure out how to get back to mine.” Leave him before he leaves you. She brushed past him before he could respond back, leaving him by the school gates. What sweet irony. 

The image of his confused and hurt face made her falter but she didn't look back. Don't look back, or you'll only cave in. She’ll put distance between herself and Sasuke, then her friends and stop going to school thus giving her time to start digging for clues. 

~~~

In class Sasuke couldn’t stop looking at her, she wasn’t even paying attention to what Kakashi was saying and yet still was able to answer any questions he threw at her with ease. Her eyes were either focused on the window, the notebook, their teacher or Ino when she was happily gossiping but never at him. Something ached in his chest, a feeling he had never felt before. 

Was this what it would have been like with his own Sakura? If it became too much. Did she plan to put distance between them and never look his way? Why did it bother him so much? He unknowingly snapped the pencil in his hand.

~~~

Sakura mindlessly doodled on the notebook. A habit she picked up on thanks to Sai. Trying to remember what 'he' looked like when she last saw him. Where is he now? Has Naruto found him yet? Would they ever see him again?

[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?! 

Twilight thinks for a moment

Twilight: Perhaps the best course of action right now is to talk about other things, obviously it can still connect to the moment. But there's got to be other subjects about what came after we can talk about. Like... Sunset, did you ever try to get in touch with Chrysalis after what happened?

Sunset: Well yeah... though it took me a while to even find out any changelings survived at all. Gotta remember that was almost a 100% extinction event for them. I wasn't completely sure Chrysalis survived until years later. Once I found out that she did, I did think about making amends. But... then I find these strange reports of any ponies going anywhere near the new hive suddenly losing their magic. But gaining it once back once they were out of range.

I immediately went to study it, and apparently in the time between the incident and when I found out Chrysalis was still alive. She had developed something that disables any living being’s magic that isn't a changeling. And it was potent stuff! As my daughter would find out, not even Discord can use magic in there while that was active. At the time, I didn’t know Chrysalis held me responsible for what happened. Though I still had a hunch trying to go there without my magic would be a bad idea.

That twisted expression was a far cry from what Sunset was really like. But seeing it would make Starlight understand why Chrysalis saw Sunset as a demon, especially with that being the memory of her. The revelation that they were both telling the truth only made things more confusing to the entire group. 

Chrysalis: This cannot be possible! Starlight defending her mother yesterday, I fully understand it now. But how can this one and I both be telling the truth yet remember it so differently?!

It was clear that there was a detail missing for the both of them, something they could have missed or overlooked. Celestia and Luna look deep in thought about this. Thinking of possible ways to go about this. While they were thinking, Sunset was speaking of trying to make amends and being met with a barrier. Chrysalis grinned.

Chrysalis: You're talking about my anti-magic barrier. Developed during the hive's reconstruction. I was not going to allow ANY creature take advantage of us again. But of course it was made with you in mind specifically, Sunset Shimmer. You're not entirely wrong, had we seen you step one hoof inside the hive, you would have been dead on sight… but it's quite clear another demon saw to that. But you're not the only one who'd done some reconnaissance, thanks to a benefactor of mine, we were able to learn where you supposedly frequented and as I've come to learn, where you lived after leaving Celestia's service, Sire's Hollow.

Sunset gasped

Sunset: Benefactor?! What?! Who? Somepony asked you or your drones to spy on me?! I do recall a time a changeling pretended to be Fi-Fi, so I'm aware you found out. But I didn't suspect you of working with someone within Equestria...

This breaks Celestia and Luna out of their thought processes as well. Nopony had known that Chrysalis ever received help at that time.

Chrysalis: Well to be honest, I'm not entirely sure who they were. Any letters they sent were not signed with a name, only a symbol. They offered information in exchange for information of my own. From what they said, they were a wanted pony with a hatred of you as well. 

Of course I was very skeptical of the information they offered, but if they hated you as much as I did then, they would be a tentative ally at best. Plus, the information they gave me not only gave me more insight on you… but also informed me of Cadence's existence as well. But their letters just stopped one day. I assumed they were either caught or something else, but I really didn't care to look into it. It was purely beneficial at the time.

Celestia: You said they signed each letter with a symbol, what symbol was it?

She asked with a seriousness that even Chrysalis was confused by. Surely one nameless criminal wasn't that important. Chrysalis looks at her and shrugs.

Chrysalis: If I recall… it was a chess piece? I thought it was silly, they probably saw themselves as some kind of mastermind or some other nonsense. Why do you ask? Does that mean anything to you?

Sunset froze on the mention of a chess piece. Sunset's brows furrow, as she begins to suspect who Chrysalis worked with. This also caused a stir on Starlight's face, as she's beginning to realize who it may have been too. But she stays quiet in hope that it's just a coincidence.

Sunset: It... no... it couldn't have been... Chrysalis, can... you tell me which chess piece it was? This is actually very important...

Chrysalis didn't know why the particular chess piece mattered. She almost laughed, wondering if Sunset had peeved off some chess nerds in school that she rejected dates from. But she obliged to Sunset's request to know which specific piece it was.

Chrysalis: Are you all serious right now? What is so significant about a chess piece? You look as if you've seen a ghost and Shimmer is right there...

She rolled her eyes, not knowing the importance of the question. This bit of levity for her did calm her mood though, even if tensions were high for everyone else. Chrysalis thinks for a moment, this was such a small detail for her to recall as she'd brushed it off as unimportant.

Chrysalis: It was… a king and queen piece if I recall? Sometimes just a king piece as well. What, is there some evil chess club I'm unaware of?

The realization hits hard for both Sunset and Starlight. Sunset was trying as hard as could to be calm and collected while she knows that Chrysalis blames her for everything. But knowing now who Chrysalis worked with, she can't help but have her temper break. Sunset's face at least temporarily made Chrysalis sweat as it was looking closer to her nightmares, at least of the dreams she had of Sunset going on a murderous rage.

Sunset: YOU WORKED WITH CHEQUE MACE?!

Starlight wasn't too pleased either. Though she's still keeping herself collected, she doesn't want to fly off the handle like yesterday either.

At first, Chrysalis is taken aback by the sudden anger from their side. She thought she'd be the only one who's angry. When looking to Starlight or Luna for support, Luna is clearly disturbed and Starlight is doing her best to hold her tongue. Celestia's eyes narrowed, but gears were turning in her head. The only one who looked the least upset was Gallus but she wasn't expecting support from him.

Chrysalis: Who? You say that name like I'm supposed to know who…

Starlight: Obviously he kept his identity secret for a reason... but Chrysalis.... that was Cozy's father you assisted... he, his wife, and of course Cozy herself would together be the ones who murdered my mother... The very reason she stands before you a spirit right now... and why I grew up motherless...

Chrysalis: h-Hold on, what!?

She gasps when Starlight finally speaks up. She assisted the ones who ultimately killed Sunset. On one hand, she should be delighted that her actions did end in Sunset's untimely demise… so why didn't it feel good? Perhaps it was the relation to Cozy Glow, or seeing the real Sunset’s personality, plus the fact that holes had been getting poked in what she remembers… it made her question the truth. And the ponies can see that conflict in her expression.

Chrysalis: Cozy Glow… ugh, to think that wretched child and her family had been involved in my affairs for longer than I realized. Hmm… though wait… does this mean Cozy is older then she appears? Because this was quite long ago… Is she an adult that just never grew?

Sunset: No… she’s just as young as she looks… there was just… a bit of a twist that happened during the final moments of my life…

This put Chrysalis in some deep thought, just wondering how this all came to be. She doesn’t know if Sunset will even want to tell her this story out of fear of her laughing in her face about it. But Sunset isn’t laughing in her face about her family, so she may as well stay composed as possible in return

Chrysalis: Explain to me how they ultimately caused your death then. Starlight has mentioned it, but never went into full detail. This isn't for wanting to hear and delight in it… something about this sours it all for me. When and where did it happen?

Sunset still needed a little more time to cool down, but she was at least helped by the fact that Chrysalis did not know. So she can be forgiven, even if now a part of what Cheque Mace said before her death made a lot more sense.

Sunset: Ok yeah... my moment of death is probably quite important to tell you. This is fast forwarding a bit, but this is a good while after I had stepped down as Celestia's protege so I could live a peaceful life in Sire's Hollow with Firelight. Eventually, we decided it was time for a baby. And thus, Starlight was born. That one week I had to simply be a loving mother was one of the best times of my life. And I was looking forward to many more weeks... however, I knew at the time that Cheque Mace was on the loose and before I could retire from world-saving for good. I needed to make sure he faced justice. He wanted to either have all the magic in the world for himself, or allow no one to have magic. And regardless if he knew that would end life on the planet, he didn’t care. Cozy would even later become the closest to implementing that plan when she worked with Tirek. It’s thanks to Gallus here, your own daughter, and all their friends that magic wasn’t taken away. Going back to the past though, I eventually got a letter from the royal guard that they've pinpointed his location, somewhere near New Haven. A small town not far from the infamous Klugetown.

I went in alone, while Cheque Mace and his wife were a formidable duo as a unicorn and pegasus respectively. I have had experience fighting much stronger foes then they are. Cozy Glow was a bit of a wild card, but I didn't think a little filly would provide them much help.

But I was very wrong to underestimate Cozy. They used her as bait, she put up a crocodile tear act and pretended that she was an abused child that managed to refuse her parents indoctrination. And how they'd threaten to kill her if she ever tried to run away or call for help. It was a bit sketchy, but she was just a filly.... and that's exactly how she gets you. She takes advantage of the assumption that a child can't be culpable for their actions

They even set it up where her parents pretended to be upset by Cozy working with me. And I stood in front of her to protect her from them. Though... before we went outside to begin our fight... Cheque Mace said something that should have been impossible. He told me he was aware of my marriage with Firelight, something I didn't even share with Princess Celestia. When I asked how he knew... he said ‘I have more eyes then you think’... he must have meant you and the Changelings all along... 

This is still shocking for all parties, never had this come up in the lessons, the idea that Cheque Mace and Chrysalis were working together was a terrifying thought even if they never worked directly together. The more information that Sunset was giving about her death, things were becoming clear to Chrysalis on how that family saw her contribution. A feeling of dread filled Chrysalis, she knew something about Sunset's death that the rest of the group didn't know. She was already on thin ice and this may seal her fate even if it's something that happened years ago. Yet she knew lying was not a possibility as Applejack would call her out on it immediately. 

Chrysalis: Cozy seems to have a penchant for lowering one's defenses before stabbing them in the back. You lot learned that once before, and I know if our joint plan succeeded… she would have done the same to myself and Tirek eventually. 

We were already looking into you and your family, how they knew of such, I don't truly know… but it's clear to me they wanted to use my anger and hatred for their own gain. And I so willingly obliged… tch, he thought that my changelings were an asset for him!? Pawns in his game?!

She paused after the unintentional pun.

Chrysalis: However… there's something you should know, Sunset Shimmer, you'd mentioned it earlier. The changeling who posed as your husband that one day?

Green flames burst around Chrysalis to reveal a younger looking Firelight

Chrysalis: Who do you think it was? I don't need to refer to the element of honesty to know your story of your death is true. After all, it seems I'd given them the information necessary to seal your fate. Or at the very least, informed them of your whereabouts and your family. I will at least say that… I never found out that you had a child, which is part of why I flew off the handle when Starlight informed me of such yesterday.

She transformed back into herself and looked… guilty? At least somewhat.

Sunset visibly gasped that Chrysalis was in fact the changeling that fled once their cover had been blown.

Sunset: It was really you?! I... there's no way I could really tell. You ran off while still disguised so I assumed it was just some random drone that had stopped by to feed on our love. Hmmph, good thing you didn't know his penchant for nicknames... otherwise you could have used that form to end my life yourself in my sleep.

Chrysalis does grumble a bit that it was a simple quirk that blew her cover. In a bit of levity, Starlight has a small giggle.

Starlight: His nicknames are quite cringe at times... but hey, it saved the day that time. Though what's worse Chrysalis, is the nicknames he had for me was among a list he considered to be my actual name. Imagine if when we were still enemies, you would have had to curse like this...

Starlight crosses her eyes and overdramatically espouses a villain defeat mantra

"CURSE YOU! THIS ISN'T OVER! I SHALL HAVE MY REVENGE ON YOU, PUMPKY-WUMPKINS!" 

Starlight immediately went into a giggle fit just imagining that.

A chance for the room to have a little bit of a laugh before Sunset can continue on with informing Chrysalis about the moment of her death.

Chrysalis: Hmph, You're quite lucky I was only trying to escape. I had no intention of fighting you on that day. Had I truly known who I was posing as at that moment, things might have been much different.

She can see Starlight giggling in the corner and groans.

Chrysalis: Don't get any ridiculous ideas. I'm not doing requests and now is not the time.

She huffed, but it was clear that she was trying to hide her own chuckle. The moment of levity for the entire group was quite good in keeping tension low. Of course things go back to being serious as they continue talking.

Sunset: Moving on... now that I knew that Cheque was aware about Fi-Fi. There was only one thought in my head, fine, not a lot of good came for them receiving that information. All it did was make me more determined to defeat them, although perhaps that anger is why I didn't realize something was looming over me later...

I fought Cheque Mace and Glitterani. And while they tried their best tricks, eventually I was able to blast Cheque off the cliff. Leaving just Glitterani to deal with… or at least, so I thought. 

I singed Glitterani’s wing now that Cheque's magic couldn't distract me from targeting her. But as I approached the injured pegasus... suddenly a huge stone dropped right at the base of my horn and broke it right off. Resulting in a loss of total control over my magic. And it was Cozy who had thrown down the stone while I was focused on her mother.

That little psychopath having the nerve to laugh and gloat over me. Despite my lack of a horn, I decided to try to do something to her in payback. It hurt a lot, but I wasn't going to let Cozy get away without some consequence. A blast came out of my broken horn, initially missing Cozy. But then the blast above her shaped into the form of a dome, iconic of Starswirl's time travel spell. And it sucked Cozy right in. From there, I had no idea where Cozy was sent to. With how volatile magic is when the horn is broken, especially of those from a unicorn with my raw power. It could have been anything from many years in the past, maybe even back to the prehistoric age for all I knew. As it would turn out, she popped up decades in the future... when she coincidentally popped up just when Twilight was starting her School of Friendship.

From there, it was just me and Cozy’s mother. I was still weakened, and very much hurt without my horn. But I foolishly approached Glitterani, who would grab me tight and proceed to throw both herself and me off the cliff…

I tried one last ditch effort with my broken horn to save myself. But Cozy's mother blocked my horn with a hoof, magic clogged up in my forehead and the most painful burning sensation rose out of my head before everything went black. We likely exploded just mere milliseconds from hitting the water below... nothing left of either me or Glitterani but food for lucky sharks.

The next thing I know... I'm in the soul shield... meeting up with my great grandparents and so on... leaving Fi-Fi and Starlight all on their own... and the worst part was... there was no way they were going to be able to find out what happened even if they eventually figure out that I must have died...

And as it turned out, it was very much a shock to Fi-Fi when I was first summoned. Having held on to hope for so long that I'd return, only for his worst fears to have been true all along...

Starlight: And I had told you back at the beginning of our talks a few days before the Laughter lesson about how my mother's death affected my life. Of course, it's a good thing I never mentioned her name back then. The lessons would have been over before they even started.

Chrysalis mulled over the entire story of Sunset’s death 

Chrysalis: That does explain why I stopped receiving the letters. They achieved their goal, and died in the process. I'm sure you already know the ultimate fate of Cozy Glow as well. I'm sure she'll just be gathering dust along with Tirek forever more.

Chrysalis couldn't help but laugh at the thought. Despite everything she's endured, she did find it funny that her one time allies and potential backstabbers were still stuck in stone while she's 'free'. But something else was eating at her. The group might expect her to be elated at the story of Sunset's final mission. But she had a more minimal reaction to it. Even Chrysalis was confused.

Chrysalis: (Because of the information I provided, she died… so why does it feel so empty? I spent most of my life fearing the day I'd face her but this… this isn't how I expected it to go. She's… ugh, she's like her daughter in many ways... but I know what I saw… and yet hearing her speak, knowing Applejack is capable of catching lies. What am I missing? Why is it all so… empty?! And why do I even feel a little bad for her death!? It… must be Starlight’s story, what she told me before the lessons began… how much her mother’s death affected her… I don’t know if I can say I feel bad for Shimmer yet… but in the case of Starlight… if I’m even partly responsible for her horrible childhood… well…)

Starlight even seems to pick up that Chrysalis is not looking as harshly at Sunset as she was even just a short time ago. There may be hope they can convince her that her mother is innocent. Though Gallus asks Starlight if he may have a comment on what's been said so far.

Gallus: Uh, Starlight. Is it ok if I give my thoughts on something earlier... I didn't want to say it since the discussion was so... serious but...

Starlight raised an eyebrow

Starlight: I guess? What is it, Gallus?

Gallus: It's the name of Chrysalis' brother... Tarsus... TarSUS... his name kind of gives away something about him... don't you think...?

The entire rest of the room either deadpans, groans, facehoofs, or all of the above

Starlight: ...You've been playing way too much of a certain murder mystery video game haven't you, Gallus? (Not to mention this is probably going to reignite Chrysalis' anger a bit... ugh...) A tarsus is an actual insect body part Gallus, did you not learn that in Fluttershy's biology lessons?

The griffon sheepishly grins, it's probably true he's been playing the game a little too much. And as much as he loved hanging out with his friends, there were probably times school still bored him to the point he doesn't remember all the facts he learned.

Chrysalis shoots a glare at Gallus, she's aware that he's one of Ocellus' friends but he could tell that her eyes were piercing into his soul. Even if she was starting to question her own memory, she still saw Tarsus in high regard right now and that comment got under her skin.

Chrysalis: You spent all that time around my daughter and yet never bothered to learn anything. Since you want to make foolish comments though, I do have a question for you. Why is a griffon here during a MAGIC lesson? You've yet to display any magic of your own. The princesses are obvious why they'd be here, Starlight and her ghostly mother makes sense too, and the dragon is quite necessary for the summonings… but what is it you add to all this?

To Chrysalis' surprise there are no hurt feelings, he simply just shrugs. He still gulps a bit with the look Chrysalis gave him. He's certainly glad he has so many powerful magic users here should Chrysalis suddenly decide to attack him in anger.

Gallus: Honestly, at first I didn't even get it either. Before the Tree of Harmony sort of assigned us our respective elements. I always thought I'd fit in with Loyalty, given I'm a flier and I was a pretty good athlete in Professor Dash’s gym. Not that I think I'm more loyal than Smolder or anything like that. Those weren't the only ones that we talked about and assumed. We thought Ocellus would fit in with Kindness, and maybe Sandbar was sort of our magic being he's the pony in the group. We at least guessed Yona and Silverstream right. But uh... I think Princess Twilight has an answer to why some who aren't necessarily obviously magic can still receive the magic element.

Twilight nods

Twilight: Yes, while it's true that it helps to have obvious control of magic of some sort. I should remind you again of course that we've found magic isn't just the flashy kind that allows Unicorns to do spells, and Pegasi to fly.I believe I've mentioned this earlier, but life itself is magic. In some ways, Magic is the one element that is within somebody no matter who they are even if another element of Harmony is more dominant within them.

Gallus is an orphan in the griffon village who has no known relatives. So the friendships he shared with Ocellus and the others was the closest he's ever had to a family. He even went so far as to try to sabotage a Hearth's Warming project that if it was not done in time, it would keep his friends from leaving him for the holidays. In some ways, it was greedy of him to want to keep his friends around as is stereotypical of griffins. But he only wanted to feel the warmth of togetherness in ways he couldn't have previously. He's made up for that since, and they all remain close.

The big takeaway here is someone with the trait of magic can also simply be someone who's the glue who likes to keep friends together and/or would not be the same without their friends. I certainly couldn't have come as far as I have without Spike, Applejack, and the rest of my friends. And Gallus needed his friends to experience friendship to make up for the lack of family in his life.

Gallus: ...I suppose it also helps that I signed up to be a royal guard under the Element of Magic herself. I imagine that doesn't hurt my standing as the Element of Magic in my group either.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes, of course Twilight would have an answer for this. She groaned and grumbled, knowing well that she was right. Chrysalis herself has been feeling exactly that from the lessons, experiencing firsthand what it is that keeps friends together, that unseen bond. Even if she doesn't want to admit it. 

Chrysalis: Hmph, always an answer for everything. But back to the main issue, there's no possible way both myself and Shimmer can be telling the truth when our stories wildly differ! I refuse to believe that!

She then shoots a look at Applejack.

Chrysalis: And I know you don't lie, but that in itself is muddying the issue!

(There's just no way, absolutely not. My brother was many things but he cared for the hive, he saved me…)

As Chrysalis was back to struggling with these thoughts, Celestia leaned over to Twilight, seeing a thoughtful look on her face. She whispered.

Celestia: I know what you're thinking Twilight, we may indeed need to do that to see the truth. I'll be honest, I need to know too. Seeing Chrysalis accuse Sunset of such an act makes me upset, but there's a fear behind that anger. This is our last chance to get through to her.

Twilight nods towards her former mentor, though who really needs to be made aware of the next stage in today's lesson... is Starlight.

Twilight: Starlight, you have done an honorable job just trying to help Chrysalis see yours and Sunset's point of view thus far. But what Chrysalis needs now is crucial evidence, and only the Plan B I hinted to you can provide that.

Starlight lowered her head, as if she failed. She knew this was something she wasn't going to like based on what Twilight said.

Starlight: (sigh) But... if I may ask Twilight... just how are we going to get evidence of what really happened? The whole island sank, remember? And there'd be so much volcanic rock to dig through to find even a little bit of clues... we wouldn't be able to find out what really happened unless w-

Then Starlight’s eyes widen as she suddenly started to realize what was Twilight's Plan B all along.

Starlight: N… n-no.... Twilight, p-please... don't tell me... it's... it's...!

Twilight nods

Twilight: Indeed it is Starlight, we need to time travel!

Everyone but Celestia, Luna, and Spike gasp at the very thought.

Starlight: TWILIGHT?! We can't just do that... what if... we end up creating a timeline that's even worse in the process?! You KNOW how guilt-ridden I still am about those previous timelines! 

Sunset herself is in a bit of shock at this plan. She knows it could end up showing what really happened, but is it worth having her daughter go through another set of guilt if things go wrong? And what are they going to do? Just watch what happens as they witness one of the worst days of their lives? Possibly traumatizing her daughter in the process?

Sunset: Twilight, I'm sorry... but I'm confused why you think this is a good idea... even if we know now that time travel doesn't affect our current timeline... there feels like there's a lot of risk involved... especially for Starlight's sake, not to mention Chrysalis re-witnessing the worst day of her life.

Even Chrysalis had reservations about this plan. From what Starlight told her about time travel, she'd come to the conclusion that messing with time was a terrible idea as the end result almost felt random.

Chrysalis: The fact that I am currently agreeing with Sunset Shimmer, sickens me to no end. What, are you planning to shatter my sanity by watching those I love die again?! You can't possibly-

Twilight gently smiles

Twilight: Trust me all of you, I've put that into account. We're not going to sit idly by and just watch Chrysalis' old hive die in front of our very eyes. In this timeline... we're going to save her hive ourselves. 

When hearing Twilight's intention, gears were turning in Chrysalis' head. There's still a big risk, but if she did this… she could see her family again. She could prove the ponies wrong and have closure! Of course, there was the feeling in the back of her mind that they were actually right about Tarsus but she tried to keep her resolve strong.

Chrysalis: Oh… oh I see now. You still realize how much of a gamble this is? Heh, but the results are something I will not argue with. You will all see what I saw that day, and the future will change for the better! I will not let my hive fall to ruin again!

Twilight: And I've also considered the caveats we'll have to take. We have to keep in mind the time period even if there aren't any consequences for our current timeline. Some of you will have an option to not go, some of you it will be recommended that you don't come along for one reason or another

Starlight, if you're still too unsure about time traveling again, we can go without you and we can tell you how things went.

Starlight thinks things over, wondering if maybe it would be best they leave this all to Twilight since Starlight still holds some guilt over the timelines she inadvertently created. Though the idea of making a timeline that's more positive then negative does provide an intriguing possibility.

There's still a part of her that isn't too sure, but eventually...

Starlight: I....I....I'll go... if not for my sake, but for Chrysalis’. Regardless of my thoughts on time traveling now... it might be important that I see some of what Chrysalis saw... even if we're going to make sure things turn out for the better this time. It won't reverse what happened in this timeline, but I must see Chrysalis' siblings rescued from their untimely fate. We'll also get a good idea of where to start once we summon the spirits of Arista and Spur later...

I also want a good look at my mother when she was younger... while she was still alive...

Twilight: I've already told Spike hours ago that if we deemed this necessary to do, he would be vital to this. Because of his invulnerability to lava.

Princess Celestia, you have the choice of coming along. But if you do choose to go, you'll have to pretend that you're that timeline's Celestia and you called us in to assist the younger Sunset. You'll just have to slip a note of everything that happened to your other self so she can get the gist and act like she was there.  I know it's not the most honest thing to do, as Applejack will surely attest to. But it's the best we can do for now if you think you must go.

Celestia: Believe me, Twilight, I know what needs to be done. I know this change will also put ease on my younger self's heart.

Twilight: Princess Luna, unfortunately you were still in the moon at this point in the timeline. So I'm afraid I recommend you must stay here.

Luna nods, understanding why she can't be there. She then looks to Chrysalis.

Luna: Even though I cannot be there to assist this time around, I know you are capable of making the right decision, Chrysalis. You can deny all you like, you know what you feel inside your heart though.

Chrysalis groans, but internally she's glad that Luna's still on her side. In reality, everypony there is, but she needs to learn to accept that. While Luna is trying to inspire Chrysalis. Celestia smiled at Twilight.

Twilight: Gallus, like all the others who weren't born yet. You have the full choice of going if you really want to

Gallus: I think I'll stay behind, not that I'm not interested in seeing this all play out. I'll just trust the stronger magic users are able to handle this. Also, while I'm sure you'd protect me if things got bad... I'mmmm not fond of the potential of getting my feathers burnt by flying volcano debris, heh heh...

Gallus rubs the back of his head sheepishly

Twilight: Sunset, we're going to be meeting your younger self. I think her seeing a ghost of herself is probably not the best idea…

Sunset: That's ok, Twilight. Even if you wanted me to go... I'm not sure I would want to... even if you are changing things for the better. Besides the fact my younger self is there... I don't want to be anywhere near that place ever again...

The spirit even shivered at the thought of witnessing what she saw that day all over again.

Twilight: And Applejack, you're about as vital to this as Spike for an entirely another reason: Your ability to catch lies.

Applejack and Spike just both nod for their important roles in all this.

Applejack: Gotcha Twi, and ah understand that this is one point where we kinda have t' lie a bit t' respect the integrity o' the timeline t' assure our yet unborn selves in the future timeline still have ah chance t' gain the lives we had or better.

Twilight: And Chrysalis... you need to be the one to cast the spell. In fact, we can't do this without you in the first place. The only other ponies here who can travel back to that time are Celestia and Luna since traveling back to the past via this spell requires having actually lived back then.

And even if we were to travel back ourselves, this is so you can't accuse us of manufacturing a different version of the events.

Chrysalis was touched by this effort, but still stood firm on her stance.

Chrysalis: You realize giving me access to such a spell could be considered a grave mistake, don't you? I stand by Tarsus. You'd best hope that you're correct about him.

Her voice was noticeably shakier, like her own faith was trembling and that alone terrified her, perhaps even more than going back to where everything took a turn for the worse. Her hooves were shaking. Even using the breathing technique that she'd 'borrowed' from Cadance and Twilight weren't really helping.

Chrysalis: So how do I cast that spell? I've not had the chance to do it before.

Twilight poofs up a scroll, very similar to the one Starlight almost ripped from before. Though obviously the coordinates are set to a far earlier time period and a different place then Cloudsdale.

Twilight: All you need to do is read this scroll, you should have more than enough magic between all the love you've gathered since you started these sessions with Starlight to perform this. Though even then, a nice assist from the Tree of Harmony will make sure this is stable. When Starlight used the time travel spell originally, she used the magic of the map in my Ponyville castle to help stabilize it. That map was created by the tree of harmony, so Treelight should be able to chip in here and help as well.

Is everyone ready?

Spike: Hold up, mom! You're not quite ready yet!

Twilight: Huh? What do you mean?

Spike points to Twilight's alicorn wings

Twilight: ...OOOH, that's right! Everyone there would be confused at the sight of another alicorn that they don't know... Good thinking, Spike!

Twilight made her horn glow, and in just a few seconds. Her wings fade out. And Twilight then shifts her flowing mane back into her old style. She was simply her unicorn genie self now.

Applejack: Heh, ya know. This is kinda nostalgic t' see ya like this again

Twilight: Ha, I suppose it is. I suppose last we need... is a replica of Celestia's Princess attire. 

Twilight glows her horn again, and pops in the crown, shoes, and neck brace that Celestia used to wear all the time while still ruling. Celestia receiving them to put on again for the first time in 10 years

Gallus: Sure hope you haven't been eating too much cake while in retirement to fit in those any more, ha!

It was a bit of a rude joke, but it probably made Luna laugh at least a little who probably needles her own sister about it too. 

Chrysalis is probably a bit amused by the jab at Celestia too. And seeing Twilight as a unicorn surprisingly brought back memories of the wedding she invaded. Twilight didn't have the genie attire at that time but it did still make her think of when things were a little more simple then they were now. Obviously her revenge for what she perceived Sunset to have done was still in her mind at the time, but she also invaded for her own personal goals and for the survival of her hive. Her hive was still nearly 100% behind her, and there was no conflict with her children or how these sessions have blurred the lines between her and Equestria more than she ever thought possible.

Part of her wonders if she'd prefer to go back to when it was simply just her hive against Equestria again, but would it really be the same after what she knows now? It'd take a complete memory wipe to really be back to where they once were. But then what stops all the events from before just repeating themselves. No, this isn't the time to repeat history. This is the time to find closure, all while seeing a better outcome for her old hive.

Chrysalis can't help but smirk, both at seeing Celestia in her regalia and Twilight as a unicorn once more, but also the joke made at Celestia's expense. 

Chrysalis: Oh yes, what a nostalgic sight. Though I believe that a good point has been brought up. Hopefully the years of retirement and cake eating haven't gone to your thighs. 

Luna looked off to the side, clearly wanting to pile on, but at the same time, she knew better. Though she absolutely found this funny. Chrysalis snickers as Celestia shoots a glare at both her and Gallus. Her cheeks were also a bit red from the insinuation.

Celestia: I'll have you both know that my body is still just as it was in its prime! ...give or take a few pounds. But I will fit in just fine! You're both lucky I'm not in charge anymore!

While Chrysalis laughed off the empty threat, she looked down at the scroll. It felt… heavy. Not in a physical sense but there was a weight to it on her mind and heart. Her smile dropped as she thought more. This was not going to be an easy trip. She looked at the group of ponies who'd be going with her and then lingered on Starlight, the one who for the most part, has been in her corner and she realizes this now. 

Chrysalis: (I… I don't want to mess this up. I cannot fail like I have in the past... This is one plan that must work, it HAS to.)

Alright, I'm casting the spell now. Those of you who are coming, get over here!

Her horn flashed bright green and the scroll began to glow, Chrysalis felt the love she'd been fed over the sessions as well as the boost from the tree of harmony, the scroll floated in the air and created a massive portal above them. Chrysalis hadn't seen this before and she still felt a nagging fear that what she'd see, she wouldn't be fully prepared for but she didn't have a choice now. It's now or never.

Once everyone has left through the portal. Gallus looks over to Luna, and to the spirit of Sunset.

Gallus: ...That joke wasn't too far, was it?

Sunset giggles

Sunset: Nah, Princess Celestia is used to being nagged about her love of cake. Luna does it, I did it to her when I was younger, and the Canterlot press has done it for generations.

The only time you should worry, is if she responds with ‘Do you like bananas?’

Gallus: Ahehhehheh... huh? What... what's the significance of bananas?!

Sunset: You don't want to know, trust me.

Both Sunset and Luna continue to giggle, while Gallus just contemplates in confusion just what has Celestia exactly done with bananas.

MEANWHILE, MANY YEARS IN THE PAST...

A younger Sunset walked on a large field of volcanic rock. She was getting a good look at the Changeling hive of Mt. Thrace. Though she's only here to see one target in mind

T.(een) Sunset: TARSUS! Where are you?! Come out of your burrow, and face me like a mare!

She yells in such bravado, even at the risk that Tarsus simply throws all her forces at her. But she also knows she can take on a horde of drones on her own. Maybe if Tarsus attacked alongside the drones she'd be overwhelmed. But Sunset knows Tarsus has too much pride at stake. It'd cement himself as the true leader of the hive to face Celestia's prized pupil alone and still win.

What Sunset doesn't know, is even if she overpowers him in this fateful battle. Tarsus has another scheme that will impact the whole world for generations to come. 

Tarsus: I'd prefer to face you like a stallion, you wretched little foal. Come and face me! I'm waiting for you!

There was a faint rumble that could be felt underneath Sunset's hooves. Though she might chalk it up to Tarsus' booming voice that she can hear coming from the heart of the hive. There was a stone bridge that was precariously above the magma below. A wicked grin on his face as he awaited Sunset's arrival.

Tarsus: (That's right, come here, this will be your final resting place. Everything is going according to plan.)

While most of the changelings were hesitant about a battle here and now, Tarsus convinced them that things would be fine. Even if he knows this is a lie. In the corner of his eyes, he sees his most trusted guard watching from a distance. He also could see Chrysalis hiding where he told her to. 

Tarsus: Perfect, it's all in place.

The younger Chrysalis watched on nervously. Not long after, a massive portal opened up out of the sight of any of them, dropping off the group from the modern day. The present Chrysalis shuddered upon seeing Mt. Thrace again.

Chrysalis: Here we are… back where it all went wrong…

As the fated battle continues in the background, the time traveling group of the present Chrysalis, Starlight, Spike, Princess Celestia, and Applejack. All set forth, albeit slowly.

Twilight: Alright everyone, we'll approach cautiously. If my calculations are correct, we should be right when Sunset and Tarsus are fighting as the volcano is erupting. I think by the time we get close enough to start changing the past, the pivotal moment of when Tarsus was injured and dangling will be upon us. On my signal, Spike will dive into the river of lava. And he'll stop Tarsus' death before it happens. 

From there, we'll move both Sunset and Tarsus to a safe spot. The volcano's eruption was not as extreme up until after Tarsus' death, so there will then be enough time to save the rest of the hive from the eruption as well. Got it?

Most of the group nods, though Starlight is on pins and needles about all this. Though she knows Chrysalis must be feeling even more nervous as she knows she's mere moments away from witnessing the tragedy she saw before her all over again should something go awry. Chrysalis knows Twilight and the others altogether should have the power to stop this, but it's not enough to ease her nerves right now. It might just be paranoia, as the surroundings around her only remind her of that horrible day.

Inside the hive, changeling scouts approach two other regal changelings.

Changeling Scout: Queen Arista, King Spur! Our scientists have picked up huge forewarning signs of an imminent eruption! King Tarsus' high command suggested we go further underground to where he said we'd be safe.

Both of them sigh

Spur: Ugh, as if he cares about our safety if he wants to plunge us into a war...

The four of them had just hours ago had a nasty argument over what to do about Equestria. As well as the deepening divide between those loyal to Tarsus and those who wanted to avoid a major conflict. It seemed like ever increasingly the hive was going to split into two. But if they were to split, Tarsus knows he wouldn't stand a chance against Equestria. When he left in disgust, he even creepily said to them "It'd be so much easier if both of you were out of the way" before walking off with some laughter.

Arista: Grrr... what is Tarsus even doing currently? And where's Chrysalis?

Changeling Scout: Tarsus is currently engaging in a duel with Sunset at the surface. And I am to assume Queen Chrysalis is currently at the surface as well watching the battle unfold.

Arista: WHAT?! Of all times for Sunset to be here, it had to be NOW?! Don't they know if one or both of them die whether due to the volcano or not, it's going to look like another international incident just like our parents' death?! We might not be able to avoid war even if Tarsus' dies! We gotta stop this at once!

Arista and Spur instantly start flying towards the surface hoping they can get Sunset and Tarsus to stop their battle before anyone gets seriously hurt.

Back up top, the duel had already gotten started. Sunset and Tarsus trade laser blasts, deflect with shields, and taunt the other across the volcanic rock below them. All in the mean while, rumblings are heard from the volcano. As lava starts to spew up on the top, Sunset is shocked to see that the volcano was active.

Sunset: What in Equestria?!! Tarsus! Did you know the volcano was going to erupt before I got here?! What, were you afraid you couldn't beat me without an environmental hazard to spice things up? Huh?

Arista and Spur tried on multiple occasions to have Tarsus reconsider the hive's location, even trying to go through Chrysalis but she would always take Tarsus' side. Though her reasons came from a different place compared to Tarsus. And now it seems like conflict is not only inevitable, but planned. They always did suspect Tarsus of having ulterior motives, but could not prove it 100%. Some other guards stop them from getting too close to Tarsus and Sunset, specifically Tarsus' personal guard.

Tarsus’ Guard: Fret not, King Tarsus will handle this accordingly. The volcano is going to be more active soon, you should head to our designated safe areas that he's worked out just in case.

The guard gave a smile, but he always looked and sounded like he knew more than he let on. Meanwhile over on Tarsus' side, he stood there on the stone bridge, grinning like a madman. He merely laughed at Sunset's comments.

Tarsus: Oh? And here I thought you preferred spectacle! What better for our last encounter, hmm? This volcano will be your end, you pathetic pony. I will show you my true might! Besides, an active volcano serves for excellent defense, nopony would be stupid enough to come here alone… well except for you that is. I'll see to it that your embers are snuffed out.

Their battle began just as Chrysalis had remembered. She knows they can only watch right now, going in too early would not give them the answers they're looking for, but being here again, it gave her pause. Her legs were trembling, it was clear she was terrified, but perhaps not for the reasons the group might think. She could see her younger self out of the corner of her eye, right at the perfect vantage point to see the fight, but far enough to get away.

Chrysalis: It's all… just as I remember… soon their fight will get intense… plumes of magma will rise along with smoke and steam...

King Spur got a little rough with Tarsus' guards, while Arista stayed back as she was most decidedly the most frail of the four. But Spur alone definitely couldn't get past most of Tarsus' guards and they realize there's no stopping this.

Spur: Hmmmph, Tarsus you fool...

Arista: *sigh* I suppose we should do what he wants. That volcano is looking quite ominous, Tarsus may be controlling. But he's done his part to protect us before... 

They're escorted towards where most of the other changelings are that Tarsus himself had built and claimed to be eruption-proof.

The battle between Sunset and Tarsus increased in intensity, the volcano almost seemed like it was going in rhythm with the battle as it too started to shake louder and more visible spews of lava could be seen, the dark plumes of ash filling up the skies.

Suddenly, Tarsus manages to make Sunset lose her footing and he quickly takes this chance to blast her off into the lava river below.

Starlight is about to scream

Starlight: MO-

But her mouth is instantly covered by Twilight's hoof. Luckily the sound of the volcano was too loud for Starlight's exclamation to sound like anything but maybe a strange twist of the wind to all the changelings and Sunset.

Twilight: Shhhh, Sunset will be fine. You should remember what skills you had even when you were this young....

Starlight was scared that simply traveling back here was enough for them to have accidentally caused the alternative result with Tarsus killing her mother here. But even as Sunset fell, her "scream" didn't even sound legitimately terrified, it sounded overdramatic, and fake. She stops mid-air as her horn glows and a red aura around her. And she has a amused chuckle and a smug smirk

T. Sunset: You thought you got me, didn't you Tarsus?~ Too bad for you that I've learned self-levitation~. 

She rockets up toward Tarsus and punches him in the mouth

The two are about evenly matched. Tarsus has more combat experience, but what equalizes this for Sunset is despite the relative lack of experience, a great teacher like Princess Celestia, and Sunset's ever growing raw power is enough for even Tarsus to start getting nervous now. He did plan for if Sunset defeated him, but that didn't mean he wasn't hoping he could just take out Sunset himself.

The battle then shifted to the air as Sunset continued to use self-levitation and Tarsus' had his wings. Both knew each other's weaknesses however, Sunset's self-levitation is a drain on her magic. If she's like this too long she could easily start to lose strength, whereas Sunset knew if she can ground Tarsus by injuring his wings, this fight would be well over. Sunset is aware of her own weaknesses like this, and starts counteracting it by jumping on pillars of rock like an extreme hopscotch game. 

Sunset's smaller size, and quick movement is frustrating for the powerful king.

Sunset: Hey? What's wrong? Am I BUGGING you?~ Bzzzzzzzzt!

She raspberries her tongue as she taunts, annoying her opponent to no end. Getting under Tarsus' skin by messing with his ego as he can't believe he can't hit just this one pony. He might just have to grow bigger, so big, that Sunset's speed can't possibly avoid his wrath. Tarsus is going to need to transform if he wants the upper hoof.

The younger Chrysalis cheers on knowing that whatever transformation he can pull off should change the tide of battle.

However, the older Chrysalis knew all too well this is actually where it started to turn out even worse for her brother... She just about silently whispers the opposite of what her younger self wanted to see. 

Y(ounger). Chrysalis: Do it, brother! Make her pay for the crimes she's committed against us!

Chrysalis: Don't… don't do it, Tarsus. That transformation will be your undoing...

It might be a bit strange for the group to see how different the two are, but it does show how far the present Chrysalis has come and also how much this day affected her. Tarsus meanwhile channeled his magic inward, clearly infuriated but acting as if he were still in control of the situation. Very similar to how Chrysalis would act in the future.

Tarsus: You insignificant worm! I will crush you and everything you are! You think you can best a king!? The one true king of the changelings!? When I am done with you, I will go for that worthless pony you serve! Your head will make an excellent symbol for those who try to oppose me! 

Every time he spoke, he only spoke of his own might, he saw himself as something above all life, not just ponies, but his own changelings. His form shifted and grew to a more viscous state. Still looking somewhat like a changeling, though he was far more insectoid and massive, looking like he could give Tirek in his normal form a run for his money. He roared as pillars of magma shot up around him. Sunset may be quick but if she took even one hit from him in this form, it would not end well. 

Tarsus: You are but a mere stepping stone in my path to an eternal rule! I will crush you beneath my hooves!

As Chrysalis and the group looked on, she felt cold, this fight played out so many times in her nightmares and it took everything not to look away. But for this plan to work, she had to inform the group when to change history. After letting out a sigh, she moved over to Spike.

Chrysalis: Get into position, it won't be long now... one or two more errant blasts from the both of them. Then we'll see the truth.

The smug, younger Sunset just shook her head.

Sunset: Tsk, tsk tsk, and I thought you'd be an actual challenge. You think your size scares me?! I've faced down full-size dragons since I was TWELVE.

Sunset also knew something about Tarsus that would be different from an encounter with a dragon. Normally getting closer to the volcano would be a mistake against a dragon, however, she knew Tarsus was no dragon.

Sunset teleports on the ground towards the foot of the volcano. As the eruption was intensifying further. Sunset mused that if Tarsus wanted a battle on an active volcano, he was going to get what he asked for one way or another.

Sunset: Catch me if you can, bugbutt!

Tarsus seemed to smile wide as Sunset went back towards the volcano.

Tarsus: (That arrogance will be your downfall. I just need you back on that bridge just as the volcano erupts. I play my cards right, she will die along with a majority of the hive. Any survivors will align with me in saying this was an intentional strike and attempted genocide on my species. And even if I perish, the grand explosion will still take her down and no one will trust ponies, it will unravel their so-called ideal society!) 

Very big talk from somepony who knows only how to run! You wanted to face me, didn't you!? I guess you're still such a child if petulant insults are all you can muster!

Tarsus blasts magic in Sunset's direction, ultimately guiding her back to where he wants her to be. The rumbling from the volcano grew more intense, it was getting ready to blow. The present Chrysalis was trembling as they all hid. Seeing the plumes shoot up, feeling the heat, she couldn't help but hear the screams of the hive already, even though in this timeline, it's yet to happen.

Chrysalis: M-make it stop… make it stop...

Sunset is indeed forced to get back on the bridge, despite her bravado she's actually breathing heavily. She doesn't know if she's getting tired or if the ever increasing amount of ash is affecting her breathing.  If she's not careful the volcano will be her doom. Another mild explosion from the top of the volcano occurred, the lava was clearly beginning to bubble up fast. As Tarsus approaches the lone pony on the bridge, everyone is on the edge of their seats. At this moment it looks like Tarsus has the clear advantage with Sunset on the Bridge, the large size of Tarsus covering a humongous area.

But despite the odds, Sunset was not deterred. She fires a laser blast that misses her target. Prompting the overlord to taunt her... 

Tarsus: Fufufu, you must be getting tired. Can’t even hit the broad side of a barn!

Sunset: Oh trust me, I wasn't aiming for you~

By the time Tarsus realizes what Sunset has done it's too late. She hit the side of the volcano creating a large hole that cuts straight to the basis, lava spewing out onto Tarsus' tail, the edge of his wings, and part of the back of his legs. Causing immediate pain on the lower side of his body. He instinctively shrinks himself, but while wincing in pain in the air he realizes he can't fly and ends up grabbing onto the edge of the bridge.

Twilight: Spike, now!

Spike salutes and dives into the lava river, swimming towards where Tarsus is likely to fall.

Despite having been fighting him, Sunset actually gasps as her opponent is in danger

Sunset: H-h-hey! Grab my hoof! You're no longer in any condition to fight! Let's end this before either of us or your kind gets seriously hurt or worse! The most you can do as a king for your kind is know when to stand down and help them in their time of need!

The younger Chrysalis is too far away to hear what either Sunset or Tarsus are saying  from the bridge, and it's also from a weird angle where it might look like Sunset is pushing him. But the present Chrysalis can now see it from an entirely different angle and somewhat hear what Sunset actually said.

Now that he was clearly defeated however, he had no plans to go through the humiliation of being rescued.

The younger chrysalis was screaming in terror at what she thought was Sunset about to murder her brother.

But the present Chrysalis got another image in mind... now that she sees it more clearly. it was just like when Starlight offered her hoof to her back when she defeated her in their first encounter.

Tarsus snarls in pain as the lava plume hits his back, while this was going according to his plan B, the pain was truly something else.

Tarsus: GRAAAAAHHHH!!

Y. Chrysalis: NOO, TARSUS!

Tarsus shot a look back at younger Chrysalis before her vision was obscured by smoke. She couldn't move from her spot, she knows the 'plan', at least the one he told her. The older Chrysalis winced as she saw Tarsus get hit, but now she was seeing things from an angle she hadn't before. She looked on in shock, the way Sunset was holding out her hoof. She looked to Starlight and then back to the scene below. Her resolve at that moment was shaken.

Chrysalis: She… you...  you two are so alike…

She saw herself in Tarsus' position, back when Starlight helped dethrone her. She watched as Tarsus swatted away Sunset's hoof just as she did towards Starlight. What confused Chrysalis was the smile he had on his face.

Tarsus: You think you've won? You think I'd take your hoof?! I'd rather plunge into the volcano below… in fact, you're in for our final show! Allow me to give you a taste of true dark magic!

The volcano shook and rumbled, as it was beginning to fully erupt. Screams from the changelings that were hiding in the 'safe area' could be heard from their position. The group knows that Spike will catch Tarsus, changing history but Chrysalis was now understanding that what she saw wasn't the whole truth. But she didn't understand, where was the look on Sunset that gave her nightmares for all these years? With one good rumble, Tarsus let go and willingly let himself fall, laughing as he did so. But when Chrysalis looked at her younger self and where she was looking… in the smoke was… a second Sunset?!

Chrysalis: W-what?! If she's there… who's that?!

As soon as Tarsus begins falling, a shadow from the surface of the lava emerges as the tall and lanky Spike speeds up and then catches the falling king. He's caught by surprise as the dragon takes him back to safety on land. He's too damaged from his fight with Sunset to do much about it. The timeline had been changed in an instant.

The young Sunset is just about flabbergasted as she witnesses a dragon bring Tarsus back up. And it only gets more confusing as more ponies show up, especially...

Sunset: PRINCESS CELESTIA?!

She then looks to her side to see... another her smirking evilly. Although this other Sunset soon sees that a wrench has been put into Tarsus' plans, As they realize the real Sunset can see them.

Sunset: ...Is that another ME?! WHAT THE BUCK IS GOING ON HERE?!?!

Once Spike brings Tarsus back to land. Twilight quickly uses magic to make some magic restraints. Covering up Tarsus' horn and tying his forehooves behind his back. He was obviously still exhausted by his fight with Sunset, but sometimes a cornered rat is more dangerous. So Twilight made sure, he couldn't resist much farther than struggling.

Perhaps the biggest surprise yet to Chrysalis was about to come. As Tarsus hardly looks grateful for the save. And off in the distance, younger Chrysalis couldn't help herself but fly on over. Probably about to tell the young dragon how thankful she is for saving her brother, although the younger Chrysalis is about to hear the same things present Chrysalis is. 

Celestia smiled at Sunset, it's been a long time since she's seen her former pupil in this younger state. She smiled but they couldn't relax just yet.

Celestia: Don't worry, Sunset. I'll explain everything in a moment, but we have more pressing matters right now. This volcano is going to blow, we must save the other changelings. As for you, impostor, you've made an unwise choice in your disguise.

Just like Twilight had done to Tarsus, Celestia placed restraints on the fake Sunset, specifically putting a magic blocking ring on their horn, revealing that it was Tarsus' right hand guard who had been in on his plan.

Tarsus: No, NO!! What in Tartarus is this!? You should not be here, Celestia! You're ruining everything! My death would have signaled your end!

While Spike and Twilight were handling Tarsus and Celestia speaking with Sunset. Chrysalis, Starlight and Applejack rushed to get to the other changelings. Chrysalis knowing this hive like the back of her hoof. 

Chrysalis: This way, quickly! The 'safe zone' was right around here! We need to get all of them to safety!

(Tarsus… you… you lied to me...you're the reason they're all gone. And you'll pay for this, brother.)

The volcano was still erupting, but it was nowhere near as intense as Chrysalis remembered any more. That 'safe zone' that Tarsus made, the fake Sunset, now she could see how both her truth and Sunset's truth were one and the same. It made her blood boil. She felt very much like the volcano that was erupting around them, ready to explode. But her priority lay with changing this world's future.  The changelings of the hive were not taken in the fiery inferno. The younger Chrysalis went down to Spike to thank him but she saw her older self speed by and looked incredibly shocked and confused by everything, her world view was just as shaken as her current self.

Y. Chrysalis: You there, dragon, thank you! B-but brother, what's the meaning of all of this!? Wh-why was your guard posing as Sunset Shimmer?!

From inside the so-called "safe" room were hundreds if not thousands of nervous changelings huddled together hoping for the volcano to calm down soon. Soon they all react in shock as a tall wraith-like changeling and two ponies come across.

Arista: Huh? W-w-who are you three?!

Starlight: There's time for that later, for now... you, all of you... are NOT safe here.

That got a bit of a skeptical gasp from the changelings. Especially those fond of Tarsus, the King specifically told them this was the safest area of the hive. They begin wondering if these ponies are here to put them in danger.

That's when Applejack starts inspecting the walls of the chamber. She feels an odd amount of heat in some areas. Some more than others, and a few areas look like they're weaker than the rest. Applejack decides to try a good kick to one of them. And a slow stream of lava starts pouring into the chamber. Causing immediate gasps and screams of panic. As it had been proven lava can still get in here.

Starlight's warnings were right, and not only were parts of the wall weakened to let a flow of lava in. Chrysalis flew up on top, and found parts of the ceiling that were weakened rock that would have dropped a lava flow straight onto unsuspecting changelings below and lit up the whole hive in a blaze. This is exactly how most of her hive died. And it made her all the more viscerally angry at her brother.

The changelings didn't object and followed Starlight and Chrysalis outside.

Once outside though it's not like the situation was looking any safer for them.

Spur: I get that the 'safe' chamber wasn't safe at all... but out here is not exactly the safest area either...

Twilight: Allow me to help with that!

Twilight charges her horn and creates a large shield that projects a large area. Protecting all the changelings and everyone else here from any debris from the volcano. The present Chrysalis would be reminded of Shining Armor's shield spell, only this time it was protecting her kind instead of kicking them out.

Chrysalis saw Arista and Spur again for the first time in years, if the situation wasn't so dire, she'd have burst into tears by now. She couldn't bring herself to find the right words, she just needed to get everyone to safety. Because of her appearance, they didn't seem to recognize her right away. But the way she looked at Arista and Spur, they'd know. Chrysalis may have aged a bit, her appearance not looking anywhere near what royalty should look like, but they'd know she's their sister. They may question why or how but they'd know to trust her. 

Chrysalis' anger towards Tarsus continued to bubble up, so much of his plan right there for her and everyone to see. She'd defended him, and believed in his cause. While it's true he did actually save her life. She now realized it was calculated. She was intended to be his living legacy. And what she might have considered a badge of honor before, it now filled her with rage unlike anything she's felt before. As everyone got the changelings to safety and regrouped, they'd all watch from the magic barrier as the volcano erupted. But unlike the one Chrysalis remembered, there's no dying screams; she's not seeing her entire family be wiped out. The blast from the eruption was nowhere near the level of sinking the island either. When it subsided, everything remained. She covered her mouth and started to cry as the realization that they did save their hive finally hit her.

Tarsus: No… NO! This isn't how it was supposed to go at all! You, Sunset Shimmer, I knew I should have killed you along with my parents! Then nothing would have gotten in my way!

The entire hive would gasp as they heard this. There had never been hard evidence of who had killed the previous king and queen, but now that Tarsus was angrily spouting off, he let the cat out of the bag. Chrysalis shot him a look, everything she'd ever believed in from him, it shattered. She looked like she might try to kill him herself.

Starlight saw this coming a mile away and instantly ran in front of Chrysalis and whispered

Starlight: Hey! Calm down for a moment, I know you're hurt to know the truth. But killing him might be exactly what he wants. Even if now everyone is safe, he probably doesn't want to live through the shame of his failure.

Chrysalis looked furious, more than she did when she nearly destroyed the hive. Her horn crackled, her fangs bared… and she was crying.

Chrysalis: Everything I've done, everything I believed in, it's because of him. I defended him for my entire life and now, now I know he's the reason they were taken from me! And you want me to calm down!? I had to struggle, I had to rule ALONE because of him! My choices were my own, but...

Celestia put a hoof on her shoulder.

Celestia: While your anger is understandable, look around you. We did it. They are safe. The thing about being a responsible leader is that you must set an example. If you go into everything with just anger, you'll be right back to where you were before your lessons. But worry not, we will guarantee that he never harms anyone again.

Chrysalis: I know… I know... It's just, all these years, I defined myself with revenge in my heart. And the sole reason for it all is right there...

Spur and Arista both have the most unpleasant looks on their faces as they approach Tarsus.

Spur: You have a lot of explaining to do, brother.

Arista: Is this why you moved the hive to this active volcano all along?! Not satisfied with trying to drag us into a costly war, you wanted to genocide your own subjects?! YOUR OWN FAMILY?! And now... you just admitted that you had a hoof with what happened to mom and dad back at the Summit that Princess Celestia hosted years ago...

I should be ashamed to even share the same blood as you...

The reveal of Tarsus' true nature also begins to have an effect on the populace. As those once divided by Tarsus' rhetoric immediately went to their more colorful friends and family to apologize. Some even immediately changed back to their former forms before they were instructed to go dark and let holes appear all over their body. Tarsus now going through the same feeling Chrysalis did as her hive turned against her after Starlight defeated her. A whole hive alongside ponies against him. And unlike Chrysalis, he's unable to escape, nor will they let him escape.

As Spur and Arista dug into Tarsus, he looked at them with a wild anger, similar to Chrysalis but far less intimidating.

Tarsus: Neither of you had the courage or the intelligence to get things done. You did not see what we were capable of, the power we could have had! So why not wipe the slate clean!? Chrysalis would have understood! She was always such an obedient pawn!

While present Chrysalis was infuriated, she did try to take the calmer approach, her younger self stomped over to him first.

Y. Chrysalis: Traitor! Is that all you saw me as, brother?! A pawn!? I believed in your cause! You… I will never be like you! You murdered our parents! They loved us, they would have led us to greatness! But I see now, you… you would only lead us to our demise! I should stomp you flat! Maybe you should have died in that volcano! 

Chrysalis: It would have ended with almost everyone's death. As much as I'd love to actually see him suffer...

Arista and Spur do however take some time to hug the younger Chrysalis who herself is probably torn by all the revelations that have come out. And as they get a good look at the present Chrysalis. They suddenly get a weird sense from the love they're tasting, the love coming out from this more wraith-looking changeling... was the exact same flavor as for the younger Chrysalis.

Arista: W-w-wait... it... it can't be... you're... also Chrysalis?!

It was now about time to begin explaining the complexities of time travel to the changelings that had been saved from an untimely demise. 

She looked at her brothers, her sister and her younger self.

Y. Chrysalis: You… you're me? But how?

Even Tarsus was confused, but he saw this almost as a false hope.

Tarsus: Look at you, that's the ultimate goal I was looking for! Oh my dear sister, you're far more evolved than I would have ever hoped!

Chrysalis: Shut your mouth, you insignificant worm of a changeling! You are no brother of mine, not anymore.

She took a deep breath and then looked at her family.

Chrysalis: Yes, I am Chrysalis… but not the one right there. I'm from… an alternate future. One where his plan went through. Had...

She paused for a moment and looked at Spike, even though they've already messed with time, they can't be revealing names of the others. 

Chrysalis: Had Talon over there not saved him from a fiery death. His death signified the darkest turn for the changelings in my timeline...

This information would confuse the changelings… all except for Tarsus but he tried to play dumb.

Tarsus: What in the world are you talking about? What would me dying achieve exactly? Yes, I'm not happy that my plans failed and I did indeed want the slate wiped clean, but I certainly wanted to be there to see the results!

A blatant lie that Applejack could call him out for. Sunset as well since she obviously tried to save him too but he swatted her away.

T. Sunset: Wait a sec... TIME TRAVEL?! But... isn't that...

Starlight: It's ok, Mo-

She covers her hoof realizing she was about to say mother before continuing on

Starlight: I-i-i-i mean Sunset... yeah... but... in our timeline it was found out that time travel is actually relatively safe. It's actually impossible to change the past and affect the present of the same timeline. It only creates an entirely new timeline, as we just did here.

Luckily for Starlight, Sunset doesn't probe into rather nervous mid-sentence change.

T. Sunset: Well, that's fascinating then. Makes me kinda interested in time travel myself if it's safe like that, oooh! What if I went back to see the dinosaurs?!

Some of the group just shakes their head and/or sighs

Twilight: Unfortunately… or perhaps fortunately for your safety…  the time travel spell only works for as back as their memory goes. I doubt you'll ever find someone who can travel that far back in the past.

The young, teenage Sunset immediately felt disappointed.

T. Sunset: Aw daaaaang.... Well, I guess while we're at it then... what even are all your names... besides of course the other Chrysalis and... Talon? Was it?

Spike nodded even if it wasn't exactly his name. He thought it was a pretty cool name change on the fly said by Chrysalis. The rest began to think of some sort of name that's short, vague, or otherwise different enough from their real name.

Starlight: My name is Starl- Star! Just Star. Ok?

Twilight: You can call me Spark

Meanwhile, Applejack has a hard time thinking of how to mask her name. Since it's difficult for her to lie to others.

Applejack: M-m-ah n-name i-is A-a-a-pple...

Twilight: BUTTERCUP! Her name is Apple Buttercup!

That helps Applejack a lot, and even gives some kudos to Twilight for using her mother's nickname as a part of this.

Suddenly, a little hamster runs out from the hive and scurries over to the younger Chrysalis. Though as she looks at the present chrysalis, she's noticeably a bit unnerved at the appearance. But at the same time kind of curious. Despite the vastly different appearance, this other Chrysalis felt familiar to her in a way the little rodent couldn't quite know for sure. The younger Chrysalis lets Spira approach this future self, and the hamster does cautiously but optimistically. Eyes shining in a way that makes Chrysalis' heart grow warm, her wings even seem to gain the glitter-like shininess. And this time possibly for a good while longer, no longer simply just fading back. This reunion with her pet alongside seeing her hive saved in front of her eyes has finally started to get to Chrysalis.

Tarsus just spits out his tongue, he can't believe Chrysalis would ever be so willing to trust these ponies over him. He tries to gaslight her one more time, saying she shouldn't trust them over her own brother who's made her so much stronger than the weakling she was. One more attempt to manipulate Chrysalis, only this time Chrysalis, both of them, shun him once and for all

Y. Chrysalis: You nearly just got melted in a volcano and now you wish to see dinosaurs?! Were you hit in the head or something?

She said to Sunset in a snarky manner. Though she did look a little ashamed as well. Because she'd gotten evidence of Tarsus' treachery now, she was more quick to righting the wrongs she's done with her beliefs.

Y. Chrysalis: I'm… sorry that we thought you had killed our parents. We didn't know Tarsus had done it. And you were trying to save him, not kill him… 

Chrysalis rolled her eyes as some of them found it difficult to come up with names on the spot. She can also see that even with the more arrogant personality, Sunset really wasn't the monster she thought she was. She sighs when she sees her younger self apologizing, knowing that she owed the present day one an apology as well. That would be a hard pill to swallow. What breaks her out of this mindset was that tiny hamster. Her eyes widened and she reached out for the little creature.

Chrysalis: Spira… that's right, she was still alive during this time...

Her wings sparkled and fluttered as she held the tiny hamster for the first time in decades. A tear rolled down her cheek as she nuzzled her, not caring that the others saw her being affectionate. When Tarsus spoke however, Chrysalis took a sharp breath before handing Spira back to her younger self.

Tarsus: It's a ruse, Chrysalis, you know how they hate us! With our power we can...

He's silenced with the glare that she was giving him. Tarsus had never felt so small before, the supposed 'most powerful' changeling, looking more like a scared foal.

Chrysalis: You shut your mouth. Let me give you some information from my timeline, I have more power than you EVER had, because of them. Not because of you. In fact...

She grinned wickedly.

Chrysalis: Your plan may have worked to end the hive. But it ultimately was a failure when it comes to it’s long term effects on Equestria. It didn't make a dent in the world's view. You wanna know something else?

Tarsus: What?!

Chrysalis: I realize now, I NEVER needed you to tell me who I am. You listen and you listen well, I am Queen Chrysalis. You aren't even worthy of a royal title. You are, and always will be scum, Tarsus. To think I once respected you. I see now, how weak you truly are… or should I say… how weak you’ve always been…

T. Sunset: Princess Celestia, I think it might be a fine time we give Tarsus the Discord treatment. Perma-petrification!

This Sunset of course isn't aware that Discord eventually is freed years in the future, at this point in the past it feels like Discord has been placed in stone so long that he may as well have been petrified for good. The problem was of course, they don't have an active elements of harmony.

Celestia must point to her young student that unfortunately they don't have all the elements on hand with them. Which is a bit of a bummer for the group. But that's when Starlight starts thinking, it takes her a while to connect the dots. But as soon as she does. Her ears perk up and she grins with a big smile. She walks on over to the present Chrysalis and whispers.

Starlight: Chrysalis! You collected positive love and energy from not just one set of Elements of Harmony. But three of them, you should have more than enough power within yourself to place Tarsus in stone. Just think of it, Chrysalis. All 6 of our sessions were leading up to this moment.. you harness the powers of love and friendship magic right now!

A chance for catharsis has arrived, knowing full well killing will make things worse. This is the next best thing, after a lifetime of manipulation that included his own death in one timeline, so many years ruling and mothering by herself, and so much time spent creating new plots on revenge against Equestria. Chrysalis can wield friendship magic for the first time on her own, and seal Tarsus to a fate equivalent to that of Cozy Glow's.

Chrysalis: That's not a bad idea at all. I've always wanted to be the one to use that power rather than be on the receiving end of it.

She shot a look that made Tarsus' eyes shrink in fear. Petrification was the last thing he wanted. And upon hearing about Chrysalis' power, he made one last play to try and sway her.

Tarsus: Sister, come now. With your power, you could just defeat them all instead! T-take control of this world! No one would be able to stop you! Free me, sister! Or at least let me die instead! Anything but being turned to stone!

Seeing this desperate attempt only now made her realize how similar she once was, though she never made such a cowardly plea for her life when she lost. And she knew what he was trying to get away with in asking for death. She did pretend to think about it, winking to the group behind her.

Chrysalis: You're right, it would be easy, and once upon a time, I would have gladly done it... but I can almost guarantee where that would have me ending up. No, Tarsus. Death is far too good for you, a mercy you do not deserve. I know firsthand the nightmare that awaits you, so suffer for all eternity you cowardly trash. As I told you already...

Her horn flared up, thinking back to every lesson, every bit of love she'd been willingly given. Before blasting him with the petrification spell.

Chrysalis: I don't need you to tell me who I am. You once took away those I cared for most, and you will never get that opportunity again.

With an angry and fearful look, Tarsus made a face similar to the one Chrysalis had when she was petrified 10 years ago. She then looked to the changeling guard that had posed as Sunset Shimmer. He looked just as terrified, realizing that he might not escape his king's fate.

Chrysalis: And as for you… what do you all think, I think it would be lovely to have a pair of statues rather than a single one. Don't you agree?

The changeling guard tries to give a quick plea. Something like that he was only following orders, he won't try to seek revenge for his king.

But his hopes are dashed when...

Applejack: Annnnnnd that's ah lie...

Starlight smirked smugly

Starlight:  I think she just gave you the greenlight, Chrysalis~

Arista, Spur, and many of the other changelings agree this is a good way that justice is served. That Tarsus, and anyone who still feels more loyalty to him then the hive will face consequences.

While the idea of some of the changelings following orders was true, for the right hand guard however, he was quickly petrified, almost making a pose like Cozy Glow. Something that the group from the future would find funny. 

Chrysalis: Now it's over, the hive can truly start to thrive again...

The past Chrysalis looked scared that she too would be next but her future self eased those fears.

Chrysalis: Don't worry, you're not on the list to be punished. You… we were used by his plans and now you're no longer on the path to becoming… me. You can still be who you want. There's nothing wrong with wanting to be strong for the hive, but don't go down my path and be a wicked leader...

She sighed, feeling genuine regret for the years she'd carved out her own dark path thanks to what Tarsus had put in her head. In a way, it was similar to Starlight's path to villainy. Chrysalis looked back at her, feeling a level of understanding she hadn't before. She then looked at Arista and Spur, now that things were finally calm, she trembled, all of her emotions that had built up over the years were coming out as she shed a few tears and pulled them into a hug. The two wouldn't have any idea of what she's done and gone through, but she was so happy to see them alive. Even if she ultimately knew that they weren't exactly her Arista and Spur.

The young Sunset, now that Tarsus and his most loyal guard has been dealt with, walks up to Princess Celestia.

T. Sunset: So um... now that things are calm again... can we talk about what just happened, Princess? How did you come across this alternate Chrysalis? And... all these ponies I've never met... especially Spark... she's amazing!... Wait, you're not going to replace me with her, are you?!

Twilight waves her hooves in reassurance

Twilight: No no no, I'm not here to take your spot as her student at all! I'm uh... just...

She has a bit of trouble thinking on the spot how to come up with a decent cover. Hoping Celestia maybe can think of something. Kinda awkward in that technically Twilight did eventually replace Sunset in the actual timeline, although across many years and after a tragic event had befallen Sunset.

For Celestia. It's also weird, but heartwarming to see both this young Sunset, and Twilight as a unicorn again together. Internally she wishes this meeting could have actually happened when Sunset was alive in her actual timeline. But it's still amusing to see both of her 2 previous faithful students standing next to each other in flesh and blood. 

Celestia took a moment to think, she hasn't really had to act like her regal self in a while. She put a hoof on Sunset's shoulder.

Celestia: Relax, Sunset. Let's just say I had a feeling something might happen. I know that doesn't sound logical, but this tends to happen when a major event is about to occur. I was worried and came to make sure everything went well. I'm certainly glad that I did come. 

As for Spark, she's a friend from the Saddle Arabia region as you can see by her attire. And don't worry, she's not going to replace you, believe it or not, she's a teacher herself. To Star over there. She along with her assistant, Talon, also happened to be around when I made the decision to provide backup. I've told them a lot about you and they were more than happy to help

Celestia looked proud of herself for coming up with that backstory.

Celestia: As for the alternate Chrysalis, let's just say the multiverse is a strange place where anything is possible. This Chrysalis came to us in a dire time of need and as you know, I've always wanted to help the changelings after that horrid incident at the world leader summit. So I'm glad that we can finally be on the same level for ponies and changelings.

Starlight approaches the younger version of her mother, noticeable tears in her eyes as she's beholding her mother while she was still very much alive. Sunset gives a welcoming nod.

T. Sunset: Why, hello there Star! Heh, what's the matter with your eyes? Got a little bit of ash in them?

Starlight shakes her head, before looking at the younger version of her mom with a nervous smile.

Starlight: No, no, that's not it... it's just uh... I'm... a big fan of yours! That's it ehehhehheh…

Sunset chuckles and gets a smug face

T. Sunset: Oh am I like super famous in the future~. Huh, I wonder if I've ascended... actually, on second thought… don't tell me if I have, I want no spoilers. I don't want to jinx anything!

Starlight just smiles but obviously a bit nervously

Starlight: Yeah... you're um... very famous in the future...

She grimaces as she looks away, not wanting to say the reason for that fame is now mostly posthumous. She turns around though with a smile back on her face.

Starlight: I'm just... glad to have met you like this... that's all.

T. Sunset: Huh, I hope that doesn't mean I turn into a grump that doesn't meet with my biggest fans... not sure I'd like that. But anyway, you're welcome!

Starlight: May I... may I have a hug?

Sunset raised an eyebrow

T. Sunset: Uh, sure I suppose. Anything for a fan!

The young Sunset gives a warm hug to Star. Though the hug releases some warm feelings that gives a nice treat to nearby changelings. Though it's a bit odd to Arista and Spur. Who whispers to the present Chrysalis.

Spur: Is it just me... or did I taste... a daughter's love from Star to Sun...

Arista: Shhhh, Spur! If that's true, don't say anything! That would mean they're making sure they're born in a similar way to their timeline!

Spur: OOOOOOH, sorry, sis!

With that, the Changelings make sure to stay quiet about any other relationships between the future selves. Up to and including the strangeness of a mother-and-son relationship between 'Spark' and 'Talon' although they presume correctly it's through adoption.

Celestia put a hoof on Twilight's shoulder, happy and proud to see Sunset and Starlight like this, even if Sunset didn't know she was hugging her future daughter. She's so glad to see this sight before her. She has Chrysalis to thank for this moment, something she never thought possible before.

Celestia: You taught her well, I hope you know that, 'Spark'.

Celestia smiled down at her. The nature of the relationships present do make the changelings wonder what the future must be like. But a bigger question looms over them, where does the hive go from here? Staying in Mt. Thrace was Tarsus' idea and it's clearly not safe, something Arista and Spur already knew even before they were betrayed. Chrysalis looked at them and her past self, already having an idea in mind.

Chrysalis: You all should leave this mountain, find a more stable place to establish the hive. If you'd like, I can tell you where I had to… rebuild in my timeline. I'm certain you will lead the hive to greater things. And...

She looked back at the ponies and dragon that helped save her family.

Chrysalis: Reject Tarsus' way of thinking… we know now that the ponies intentions to ally with us was legitimate. Take them up on the offer. They will give love openly and willingly. He may not be able to hear it now, but that does eventually happen in my time as well. But here, it can happen much sooner.

It still felt weird for Chrysalis to say that, but she knows who her allies are...who her friends are. She'd then look to Starlight and Sunset hugging, feeling the love from a child to their mother, and it gave her an idea. When Starlight came over, she then whispered something into her ear.

Chrysalis: Since we've already changed things here, perhaps giving a few more 'spoilers' couldn't hurt could it? I think there's more lives that can be saved in addition to my hive. I'm sure you know what I mean.

Starlight gasped, and grinned. Realizing that's a great idea.

Starlight: Oh yes! That's right! Thank you Chrysalis for reminding me. Um... Sunset... I actually have one more thing to tell you.

Sunset: Hm? What is it, Star?

Starlight: Um... in our timeline close to a decade from now. There's a trio of baddies that um... did some real damage on Equestria that I think would be important you know about. If you ever come across anypony named Cheque Mace, Glitterani, and/or Cozy Glow. You need to make sure to never come alone when dealing with them. The damage they did eventually got fixed, but we think it'd be better if you took care of them before any serious damage is done.

Sunset: Cheque Mace, Glitterani, and Cozy Glow huh? Hmm... Well, I'll make sure to keep a lookout on them. Were they like really strong? Heh, that almost sounds exciting if so.

Starlight gets worried that her mother's bravado might one day just get her cocky enough to face them alone anyway.

Starlight: No, it isn't that they're strong. You'd be disappointed by their strength actually, I want you to never underestimate their trickery. Do not let them fool you into a false sense of security, or in the case of a particular one, be fooled by their unassuming appearance. They're the types of ponies who can't be reasoned with. Or to put it more bluntly, personality-wise they're like three of Tarsus at once.

Spur: Hm… in that case, i wonder if maybe we can help keep an eye on a family like that too. We changelings make great spies after all. And anyone who's ever like Tarsus shall receive our wrath.

Arista: Exactly, we can help take down this terrible trio.

Spur: Just imagine it, they won't see just ONE Sunset...

Spur and Arista then giggle as they turn themselves into a copy of Sunset

Spur: But three of her!

Arista looks on over to the younger Chrysalis

Arista: Or even four!

Y. Chrysalis: You guys...

The younger Chrysalis smirked and nodded, happy to be accepted back so easily. Considering that she, Arista and Spur hadn't been on the greatest of terms after siding so much with Tarsus before. She was glad to know they still loved her, glad to know that their last interaction wouldn't be an argument. 

Y. Chrysalis: You can count on us to help you as you have helped us. It's only fair. Besides, the world can use less of Tarsus' mindset. I understand that now.

As the group from the present try to set it up so Sunset may well live far longer than she did in their timeline, this gives Applejack an idea as she heads up to whisper to Celestia. Applejack: Ah… ah hope ah’m not being too greedy… but… is there a way ya’ll can protect mah folks from their untimely demise while we’re changing fate and all that here…

Celestia gently smiles in response

Celestia: Of course, Applejack. I’ll instruct my past self to get our best scientists to start monitoring the Flame Geyser Swamp earlier like we probably should have… I’m so sorry such an awful fate fell upon your beloved parents. Just as we are doing with the changelings here, and Sunset… we shall hope your parents live far longer here than they did in our timeline.

Applejack tears up as she smiles.

Applejack: Thank ya… thank ya very much… Princess Celestia…

With the hive looking to be allying itself with the ponies of Equestria, and even potentially saving Sunset's and Applejack’s parents' life in the near future, things were looking bright for this version of events. Of course that meant that the group from the future would need to leave soon. Chrysalis took a look at the group and let out a small sigh. She could see Celestia also writing something down as well. She looks to her younger self, giving her a serious look.

Chrysalis: If there's anything I learned about having to lead alone, don't let your own arrogance cloud your judgment. Don't let your anger get the better of you either. It's taken me to some very dark places. I've done some terrible things, and I cannot fully put the blame on Tarsus, even if he led me to believe in that way of thinking. The decisions were mine alone. But Arista and Spur, trust them, let them in. Believe me, you don't want to know what it's like without them.

The younger Chrysalis nodded.

Y. Chrysalis: Right… right, I understand. They mean the world to me, and I'm so glad you and all these other ponies came in to save us. Are you going to be okay?

Chrysalis gave a sad smile.

Chrysalis: In time, I think I will be. I've got some f-friends who will see to that.

She whispers.

Chrysalis: But if they ask, I never said that, I'm not about to be mushy like them.

Her younger self snickers

Y. Chrysalis: Not openly anyway~

Chrysalis: Shush!

The group that went back to the past, or rather another timeline's past groups back together. Twilight and Starlight approach the present Chrysalis. While they're out of earshot from everyone that's from this timeline

Twilight: Well, are you ready to go back? We've done it. Even if you can't live to see how this timeline shakes out. It must feel good to know at least somewhere, your family survives.

Starlight: This... has been pretty cathartic for me too. To see that time travel CAN change a timeline for the better... not that I'm suddenly going to become a time patroller that seeks to create good endings out of bad timelines. Time travel can still be quite messy if we keep changing things too much. but... after all the bad timelines I created back when I was battling with Twilight... it's good to see that we created a timeline that has a great chance of bringing unity to the world faster than in our own timeline.

Twilight: And thank you so much Princess Celestia for a tremendous job... oh and Applejack, I hope you're fine having to hold in all the timeline-integrity lies we had to make.

Applejack is still sweating a bit nervously from having to keep her mouth shut, but she's slowly exhaling just prepared to be back to her timeline.

Applejack: Well fo' one thin' ah certainly didn't expect t' save two changeling hives within 24 hours o' eachother...

Spike: We did an awesome job, but we should probably say goodbye to our friends in the past now. They'll see us again, even if in a different context eventually.

The group then heads on over to the younger Sunset and the changelings that had been saved from an untimely demise. Celestia informs them that she will escort them before they use a spell to go back to their timeline. Sunset won't know that Celestia is actually going with them, but not before sending out her letter to her past self to make sure she knows every important detail of what happened. So it'll be still like it was her, she's always had a history of being cryptic like that to her students.

Chrysalis said nothing as she stood with the group, she was happy that her family was saved, but saddened by the fact that she would not get to live her life with them. She didn't belong in that timeline, and she knew that, but she wanted to take as much of it in as she could. She would also need to prepare herself to see her timeline's Arista and Spur. In this time, Celestia had sent the letter to herself, marking it in a way that her past self would know it's not some elaborate prank, but legitimately herself from the future. Like Chrysalis, she too wanted to spend just a moment more with Sunset before they departed. The group from the future made their way to a more open area for Chrysalis to cast the spell to return back to their time. Her horn flickered but she didn't open the portal. Chrysalis reluctantly looked at the time scroll and then back to Mt. Thrace, a bittersweet look on her face.

As everyone entered the portal gradually, the only one other than Chrysalis that hadn't entered yet was Starlight. Who holds out her hoof, Chrysalis flashbacks not just to when Starlight had done this the first time but when the younger Sunset tried to do the same for Tarsus. Only to be rejected by a rude slap, this time however.,, would be different. She grabs on to Starlight’s hoof wholeheartedly, as things come into full circle for them.

The two heading out, as Chrysalis doesn't hear screams anymore. Even if in the present she still has to live with what were the result of Tarsus' evil deeds, the joy she saw of her old hive surviving is enough to help wound the part of her brain that flashes back to that horrible day.

Once the whole group returns to their timeline. The spirit Sunset, Luna, and Gallus welcome them back.

Although it's apparent what's to come next. Chrysalis had found the truth of what happened and all those years ago, Sunset was innocent the entire time. She had nearly destroyed her new hive in anger over a false accusation. The group gives Sunset and Chrysalis their own space to talk this over once and for all.

Sunset not saying a word, even now that Chrysalis knows what really happened. Sunset herself still holds trauma of her own from that day, she's not here to gloat and tell Chrysalis she was wrong. She'd offer a hug... if she could anyway. The truth was that day was horrible for the both of them, and it drove them to the paths they landed in today. Even if in Sunset's case, her life was tragically cut short. And Chrysalis had unwittingly worked with Sunset's would-be murderers, and by extension was part of why her friend Starlight had her own dark deeds.

It filled Chrysalis with more guilt than she's ever felt before. She isn't even sure if she's worth being forgiven this time, all this time Equestria could have helped her all along. But now it all just feels like years wasted, and for what? Her terrible, no-good, deadbeat of a brother?

The only solace right now for Chrysalis, is that at the very least. Sunset isn't looking down at her in anger, while she frowns at first while herself going over her own emotions. She eventually gets the courage to manage a warm smile, one very similar to that of Starlight's own that Chrysalis has gotten used to when they've bonded during the lessons. Sunset finally gains the courage to speak.

Sunset: It's... it's ok Chrysalis. I promise I'm not mad. We've both been through so much since that awful day. Now that you know the truth though, I'd like to offer a chance to start over between us. Though more importantly, your friendship with my daughter will heal the wounds left on us from time. Just as Ocellus is your legacy, she is mine. Let's work so that both have a wonderful future ahead for them. From mother to mother.

Chrysalis: I… I'm sorry. I tried to hold it together in the past, I didn't want them to see all of my pain as it's not their burden to bear. As much as I wanted to remain, they aren't the ones I lost. All those years I spent looking for revenge...

Chrysalis looked down and shook her head. 

Chrysalis: After all that, I've tried to kill your daughter on separate occasions, I inadvertently was involved in your murder. Among so many other things I did and made my changelings do. And yet you still choose to forgive me...

She couldn't help but laugh and cry at the same time.

Chrysalis: It's that trait in you ponies that would drive me up a wall… it used to. But right now, I'm so thankful for it. You are correct, Sunset Shimmer, our daughters are our legacy… and we should be there to support them.

This made Chrysalis think for a moment as she wiped tears from her eyes.

Chrysalis: I'll need to give Pharynx and… Thorax an apology as well. I owe them that much at least.

Celestia went on over to hug Luna after returning from the timeline they changed. Twilight restores her Alicorn wings as well as her crown and her flowing mane and tail. She then gives Spike a big hug herself.

Starlight walks over to Chrysalis as they prepare for what's next.

Starlight: Now that we've finished time traveling, it's now time to go back to the current hive. It's time for you to reunite with the spirits of Spur and Arista at the very least. Though I wonder, should we also summon your parents too? It should be possible to do so. But we could also just save them for another time if perhaps you want to specifically see only Arista and Spur for now

I know the hive's probably still uneasy after what happened yesterday. But once they find out what you learned from our time traveling adventure, alongside meeting the spirits of the beloved family you lost. They should all understand not just how much you've been through, but also learn more about their heritage.

Twilight: You should all go ahead on to the hive. Me, Gallus, and Applejack have to... run some errands in Ponyville. 

She winks over to the farm pony

Applejack: Huh? Wait, we do? ...OH, yeah! Those uh... errands. O' course!

Applejack's tone kinda gives it away that this isn't just some errand. But they can't imagine Twilight is planning anything mischievous or anything.

Twilight: We'll be back soon, I promise. Celestia and Luna, you two are free to decide what you want to do from here. Though I'd like you to return shortly once I'm finished with our "errands" if you feel the need to go back to Silver Shoals briefly.

Otherwise... Spike, Sunset, Starlight, I'll see you soon, and you too Chrysalis. I hope your reunion with your family goes well.

Those who are staying to make the trip to the changeling hive nod as Twilight, Applejack, and Gallus head on back to Ponyville. 

Chrysalis: I'm not so sure the hive will still want me there even after I apologize for my actions. Understandably of course. I'm prepared to live out on my own if need be. You won't need to worry about me going rogue, I'm done with all that. Maybe… I just need to discover my place in this world before truly becoming one with my hive again.

Chrysalis sighed, while the Arista and Spur of the alternate timeline were more than happy to patch things up, she didn't know if she'd be so lucky with hers. But she wanted so badly to see them. She was prepared for whatever may come.

Chrysalis: I'm surprised you don't want to join us either, after everything we've just done. But fine, run your errands or whatever.

Celestia and Luna chuckled as Celestia took off her regalia.

Celestia: It was nice to wear the crown once again, but even better to be out there saving lives. It's much more rewarding to be playing an active role. And Chrysalis, I'm sure you'll be fine. But should you ever find yourself in need of a different home to broaden your horizons. I've found that Ponyville has always been able to bring out one's true potential as I'm sure Twilight and Starlight could tell you. Perhaps it can do the same for you.

Chrysalis didn't say anything, the thought of living in Ponyville never crossed her mind but she was at least considering it. She then looked at Starlight.

Chrysalis: Let's not waste anymore time here. But all of you, for what you've done… for me of all creatures... t-thanks...

She muttered it, but they all heard her. 

Twilight: Oh don't worry, my 'errands' won't take long. I shall be joining and meeting up with your family soon enough. These errands are just setting up a... special occasion.

She not so subtly looks at Starlight, and flaps her alicorn wings as she mentions those last two words. Starlight herself remains oblivious to what this is. So she just shrugs.

Starlight: You know you already celebrated my birthday a few months ago, right... I don't see what needs to be done for me. This should be Chrysalis' time to celebrate. Not me.

Twilight: I beg to differ, this was the penultimate result from your bond with Chrysalis that grew slowly over the course of these sessions. It's true it's not all about you, but it's also not completely Chrysalis' time. You've risked everything, even your own life in the pursuit of friendship with Chrysalis. I admit I still wish it didn't have to be that way, but it's a true testament of how much you believed in her.

Starlight is flattered but she wonders if maybe...

Starlight: ...Is this just going to be some Pinkie Pie party you have thrown for us?

Twilight: I shall neither confirm or deny~

Starlight: ...Knowing you, that's usually a yes.

Twilight chuckles

Twilight: Well, you'll see soon enough. Ok, Applejack and Gallus, let's go to Ponyville

The three then walk off at last. Starlight opens up another pack of portal gum for transportation back to the changeling hive.

Starlight loves the idea of having Chrysalis around to see Ponyville, no longer as a feared conqueror. But a staunch ally simply looking for her place in the world again.

Starlight: Say Celestia and Luna do you want to come with us? Or shall you be on your own a bit until Twilight's finished with her "errands" 

Celestia: Unfortunately we also must prepare, though if you do summon King Suture and Queen Elytra… tell them that they should be proud of what their hive has become. I'm sure we'll see them again, but this should be a moment for Chrysalis and her family first.

Chrysalis looked touched by that statement, her sparkled wings fluttered a bit. She turned away towards the portal, but there was a noticeable smirk on her face. She really wasn't used to being praised or complimented by Celestia of all ponies.

Chrysalis: Suit yourselves then.

Chrysalis and Starlight cross through the portal and back to the hive, though to her surprise, they weren't back in her cell area, but the throne room where Thorax, Pharynx and Ocellus were. Chrysalis froze for a moment before walking up to the three of them, she said nothing at first, and to their shock, she pulled them into a hug.

Chrysalis: I'm so sorry… for everything...

Ocellus: It's... It's ok, Mom... we... we understand.

Spike and the spirit of Sunset soon follow suit. At first the changelings weren't sure when Chrysalis came with just Starlight, but the presence of Sunset being there. And Chrysalis not seeming too upset with the idea of her being anywhere near her hive, must mean she had somehow learned that her lifelong blame has been misled. This is especially good news for Pharynx, who got to know Sunset long before he heard his mother's scathing opinion of her from just a day ago.

Even the rank and file changelings notice a strong change from their former leader. Even if some of them are still nervous after yesterday's events.

Starlight approaches to speak. As she walks up... she looks poised, and strong. Perhaps it's after a fair bit of practice from the time she was a dictator of a small town. But something about her felt captivating in a more positive light, some would almost dare say... Starlight looked more regal than she's ever had before.

Starlight: I'm sure many of you are still scared after what happened yesterday. But I want to assure you that nothing like that will ever happen again. Chrysalis now knows what really happened in her past. She now knows her reason for blowing up yesterday was misblamed entirely. The true culprit was someone she long trusted, and her perceived most hated enemy... who also happened to be my eventual mother... was trying to help her kind the whole time.

Today, we're going to be using Spike's dragon tear to summon Chrysalis' beloved siblings that sadly died at the hooves of another sibling that dastardly planned their demise from the outset. Their loss is why Chrysalis dared to rebuild, give birth, and recruit many of you to her mission of revenge. It's time this generation of changelings fully learned about Chrysalis' generation when she was younger. While I promise we won't force Chrysalis to bunk in awkwardly so fast after what had happened yesterday. As we’ve offered her the chance to live in say... Ponyville for a good while before she's finally welcomed back here.

But a full understanding of why Chrysalis did what she did shall now be public knowledge in the hive. In an ideal situation, this information probably shouldn't have been hidden from many of you. But Chrysalis simply feared something like what happened would do so again. It could have happened yesterday, if she hadn't hesitated.

As you've come to know, a changeling hive works best with multiple leaders. But since Chrysalis was on her own at the time, she feared if it was found out Ocellus was a royal. She was scared you'd think she was essentially a spy for her that would succeed to the throne and rule the same way. Even Ocellus herself had a great fear that she would have to rule like Chrysalis herself.

Now you will get to see who Chrysalis co-ruled with, and those she cared about and have missed for so long. The dark magic of her evil brother's soul was what sank the entire island that Mt. Thrace once stood. But these two were bright lights in her younger life that were taken from her too soon. Thus, we shall receive closure. The same kind of closure I had when I summoned my mother for the first time.

It's time for you all... to meet King Spur, and Queen Arista!

Starlight turns toward Chrysalis

Starlight: Are you ready, Chrysalis?

Chrysalis and the other royal changelings noticed this shift in Starlight as well. They already knew the position she was taking in life even if she hadn't noticed it herself. But when she asked if Chrysalis was ready, she shook her head.

Chrysalis: Before that, I want to say something to… my hive.

Chrysalis looked to the crowd, she didn't sound like the brash and cruel leader they once knew. Chrysalis' voice had a more sullen and calm tone. Many also gasped upon the reveal of Ocellus' status as a royal as well. Though some looked as if they knew. She could see some nervous faces when they looked her way, understandably so

Chrysalis: What Starlight said is correct. The hive once stood much differently, we all were brighter once upon a time. Not in the way you are now, but something more like… an in-between. Whole, for lack of a better term. I led in the way I believed my brother would have wanted but even then, those actions were my own. The things I made us do, the way I made you all try to see the world and the way I made us out to be monsters... That was something I will have to live with. I nearly went down the same path as my brother, I was not thinking clearly... I'm not going to ask to be Queen again. And although I’m unsure if I’ll take the offer of living in Ponyville… I’m… fully considering it. Some of you may never forgive or accept me, and I'm fine with that. But to all of you… I...

She took a deep breath, tears in her eyes, and actually knelt to them all.

Chrysalis: I'm sorry for the years of torment I put you all through.

She quickly got back up and turned away in a more tsundere-like fashion.

Chrysalis: This doesn't mean I'm going completely soft! B-but know that you changelings, this hive… it means the world to me and I will not be one to threaten it ever again.

She looked at Starlight.

Chrysalis: Now I'm ready.

Starlight nods before turning to Spike.

Spike approaches Chrysalis, and now Chrysalis can see the dragon tear closely.

Spike: Place your hoof on this tear, and then speak a message inside your mind alongside a desire to see your siblings again. I imagine it still seems so weird to you that this is possible, but I promise you. They do hear it from up there, and this is how it all works. As soon as you've said your message internally, then you only need to leave the rest up to me. 

Spike takes off his necklace and places the tear on a claw and outreaches for Chrysalis to touch. An actual chance to speak with her beloved lost siblings, and for a while she doesn't know how to start. How can you know how to start, the whole idea of speaking of the dead always seemed so improbable And yet the chance to do so is right there. And she's seen it twice now, having met with Applejack's parents and then Sunset Shimmer. This is a power Chrysalis still is in absolute awe over after less than 24 hours after learning that it's possible. 

She had once thought dragons were simply brutes similar to Tirek where their magic is simply their ability to breath fire and immunity to Volcanoes and/or heat. The latter of which she certainly wished the changelings had. But Spike was proof that dragons arguably have the ability to wield the strongest magic of all. Soul magic, a magic purely made of an uncorrupted lifeform's soul. Dragons do live the longest out of any creature on the planet besides maybe the alicorns, so perhaps it makes sense that they have unique abilities when it comes to this magic.

It's a fascinating subject, she wonders if by now there's books on the subject that she'll be able to learn more about what's been discovered about soul magic in the time she's been petrified. It'd be a nice read while she passes the time while alone.

For now though, it's time... her first message to Arista and Spur after so many years after that tragic day,,,

Chrysalis took a deep breath as she looked at the dragon's tear, an item that she may have tried to harness back in her wicked days. But now she saw things differently. Uncertainty filled her heart for a moment, wondering if they might just ignore her call, in all honesty, she felt like she would've deserved it. But she shook her head, shakily holding her hoof up to the gem and spoke with her heart, calling out to her siblings.

Chrysalis: (Arista...Spur... Please hear me. I know the last time we spoke it was horrible. But please I… I want to see you again. If not for me, come for your family. I have a daughter and two sons whom you should meet. So I hope you can indeed hear me up there. You two were good changelings, I know you're up in that shield or whatever they call it.)

She looked at Spike and took her hoof away

Chrysalis: I've called them. Now I suppose we'll wait.

The dragon tear glows once Chrysalis' desire had been made. Spike closes his eyes and takes a deep breath as he infuses the dragon magic within to call down two souls down from the soul shield. It only takes a moment where similar to Sunset's summoning from earlier two bright lights can be seen in the sky. By now, a brisk sunset lights up the sky that makes it easier to see the souls fast approaching. The crowd of changelings look in awe, obviously they've seen summonings before. But it's no less an impressive sight to behold. Two comet-like shapes swiftly move in front of the whole crowd. They begin to shape into distinct changeling silhouettes. When their colors and faces begin to fade in. Their eyes are closed with a neutral expression.

Both of them open their eyes, and the first thing they see is their sister. The neutral expression on their faces leaves Chrysalis nervous that they're not too happy about seeing her again.

But within seconds, their faces change... into smiles. Smiles that she'd never thought she'd get to see again outside of the Arista and Spur from the other timeline. It's Chrysalis younger sister that breaks the silence at last

Arista: We.... we've missed you... sis...

[fandoms-in-law]

Grief

Summary: Steve's grandad dies. He deals

Here's a few hundred words of how I'm feeling projected onto Steve cause that was the name my hands typed first. Now if anyone knows where I can find a party to do the ending for me, I've no clue if that'd help or not

/\/\

Steve wants to process it.

A loved one is dead, and he wants to process it: to scream and cry, to beat up cushions and complain about injustice, to thank someone their pain is over.

He wants to process it.

Except his mind is numb.

Maybe that's the depression in the 5 stages of grief. He doesn't know, probably heard about them sometime, depression, bargaining, anger, acceptance, and some fifth one that he can't think of.

He wants to process, to feel his emotions and feel like there's a reason for him hiding from it all... denial. That's the fifth one, is that what this is? Denying that he's gone, that anyone died and there'll be a face missing at the next gathering.

Denying that the next gathering will be a funeral.

Fuck, maybe the numbness was right, because Steve can't sit here crying. There's no-one awake to talk to, and just a cat behind him. And cats don't like being clung to while their human's break down, no matter how clingy they can be.

The piano won't be played any more. No more can there be visits to that garden that carried on forever, or someone with a book for everything. Fuck, let's be real, Dad does try to have that, and usually fails now. Even managed to prove one of those 'the answer is in this one' books was outdated.

We're the grandchildren, there's nothing for us to be doing. It's the children that sort the will out, deal with things like death certificates, funeral arrangements, and the helplessness doesn't help.

Thoughts echoed, and Steve wondered if his friends would be able to help, if talking to Robin, Eddie, Dustin, any of the party, would make them make sense. He doubted it; nobody can feel someone elses emotions for them and talking would be better with his family.

If his family was actually there at all. They were distant as much as Steve like to imagine they were close. He thought every family living in different cities was the same, rarely in touch but close the times they saw each other. His was just a bit more extreme than that, because his parents were the same level as the rest of his relatives.

With how busy the party tended to keep him, it almost shocked Steve that he'd been home to take that call, but early mornings were one time he could be guaranteed to be home.

He broken down then, continued crying when trying to talk about it for an hour after, and then the numbness began. At least it hadn't begun when he was calling Family Video, telling them he wouldn't be in, needed to sort things out. Robin would've called nonsense or insisted on helping talk it through more. He was sort of glad she wasn't the one he had to call.

Knocking told Steve he'd disappeared long enough to concern the party. At a guess it was probably Hopper, the knocking was too heavy and controlled to be any of the kids.

“I'm fine. You don't need to do a wellness check.” He recited, opening the door, before staring at not just Hopper but everyone in the party.

“The fact you said that without greeting me says I do. What's going on?” Hopper huffed, inviting himself and everyone else in when Steve went to shut the door on them.

He stared again before shrugging. “Grandad's dead. I needed some processing time.”

“Sad movie collection then.” Robin declared, clapping once and gesturing to the living room for the kids to file through. “We had a few collections of things to help with whatever situation might be here.”

“Yup. You can mope, but doing it alone is forbidden.” Dustin agreed, hurrying back to them the bag he'd brought in still in his hands. “When did you get a cat? Why haven't I met them before? And where are your snack bowls now? You've moved them.”

“Cupboard left of the one under the sink, and a month or so back but she tends to hide from people.” Steve answered on automatic. If he felt numb before now all he could feel was bewilderment.

[ladyjaneasherr]

Jane Asher photographed for his new book cover, 1987.

Part 2, continued from previous post.

With over a million children every year attending casualty departments after preventable accidents, her book carries a serious political message. Apart from encouraging architects and designers to put child safety to the forefront, she calls on the Government to:

* Pass legislation to make curly cables on kettles compulsory to avoid scalding accidents.

* Make it compulsory for all cars to be fitted with rear seat belts. legislation is now before Parliament— and provide-free car child setas for those in need.

* Ban horizontal bannisters which small children find easy to climb.

* Outlaw central pivoting windows which can swing open when leaned on by a child.

“This country’s very bad about caring for its children,” she says. "Carrying a child in a car without a safety harness is like placing it in the jaws of a shark. "Even new homes that are beautifully designed in every respect can have large gaps in their wrought iron balconies through which a toddler could easily squeeze. The daughter of a music teacher and a Harley Street psychiatrist, Jane grew up in London's Wimpole Street, where the Asher children's red hair earned them the nickname The Carrots of Wimpole Street. Her older brother, Peter, 43, was part of the Peter and Gordon pop duo, who topped the hit parade in 1964 with A World Without Love. Jane began her acting career in the movie Mandy, about a child who was born deaf. Now, at 41, she long ago made the transition from long haired child of the 60s to successful television and stage actress. Yet those with long memories still think of her first and foremost as Beatle Paul McCartney's one-time girlfriend, even though it's 20 years since their five year romance ended. It's a subject she still won't talk about on the grounds that it wouldn't be fair to Gerald. And she's also very protective about her children, refusing to allow them to be photographed, even for the cover of her book, where she's seen cuddling a beautiful baby who looks like an Asher child but isn't. Although she works so hard, she says firmly: “My family always comes first, followed by acting, with books almost a hobby. But because this new one means so much to me, there's a bit of me that feels guilty about doing something as silly as acting. I always thought that if I hadn't taken it up, I might have followed my father and gone into medicine. So deep down inside I think at last I'm doing something a bit more worthwhile.” Jane researched and wrote the book, in between everything else over a period of 18 months and she's proudest of the last section an A to Z of emergency treatment for which she did a first aid course. “ It's awful to realise that a child could choke to death in front of you and you wouldn't know what to do,” she says.

Friends told her horror stories about children fracturing their skulls after being accidentally dropped, being terribly burned when curtains near a cot caught fire and suffering eye injuries from dangerous toys. “These are the things that can happen in even the most loving, and caring of families,” she says. I would hate to put anyone off having children just because they need such tender care. How could anyone regret having children? Of course, there have been times when I've had to grit my teeth and turn down some really nice part because I knew it would conflict with their needs. But it would be hard to imagine life without them.

” I always wanted to have a family, but I was by no means soppy about babies. Motherhood is all so different to what you expect. But the most unexpected thing is the overwhelming love you feel. You become totaily besotted with your own child. When your baby smiles or takes those first steps it's just sensational.

“I thought I would never love another baby as much as I did the first, but the extraordinary thing is that it just expands limitlessly. Love really is extraordinary.

” I'm lucky as an actress because I can fit my work in around the children. It must be difficult for mothers who have to be in an office all day because they miss so much— and I think I'd mind terribly if my child didn't run to me when I walked in the door. As a trustee of the Child Accident Prevention Trust, Jane is currently helping to make a series of videos about safety measures. She's also finishing off a book on children's parties and has begun work on an anthology of children's poetry, with part of the proceeds earmarked for Friends of the Earth.

Then there's her work as trustee of the World Wildlife Fund, an Alan Ayckbourn play coming up in the West End in the autumn and another series of television's Wish Me Luck to be seen next year.

Up in his study, Gerald is heavily involved in research for a book of his political drawings over the last 21 years. Katie is in the middle of rehearsals for her part in the school play (Jane hopes she'll be sensible enough not to want to take up acting), and Alex and Rory need to be picked up and driven to a friend's house for tea. This evening after she's put the children to bed and cooked dinner for Gerald and Katie, Jane might even have time to watch a little television. And if there's any time left over, she'll just muddle through as usual.

Keep Your Baby Safe by Jane Asher is published by Penguin Books on August 4, price €3-99.

[visionkept]

There's still so much to learn about Tomoya, but there's at least one thing Honey knows for certain: they have a weakness for adorable, fluffy little creatures... and, recently, she thinks she heard them mumbling something about bunnies. That's easy enough to work with!

Usagi manju, presented with several flavors to err on the side of caution: strawberry and white chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, and matcha. Surely they'll be fond of at least one of the flavors presented, she reasons... and cuteness can make up for the rest... but, of course, there's one extra way to hedge her bets, and she happily takes it.

Nestled in amongst the batch of manju is a second, separate container: a clear round bubble containing one of those trendy, jiggly little milk-pudding kitties. just like their kitty cat!

Beneath a plum blossom tree, guarded from the late winter sunlight by the projected shadow, the ronin rests quietly so immersed in their own thoughts. Never did the current date crossed their mind nor did the sweetness in the air raise suspicion. For Tomoya this day was no different from the rest with nothing to give and nothing to get. A direct consequence of SOLITUDE they wrongfully have considered an advantage ( which, of course, ISN'T despite their stubbornness in the matter ). Again, THIS DAY was EXPECTED to BE and FEEL ORDINARY, and it would have gone that way if it wasn't because of a certain SOMEBODY.

❝ Honey, is there something you want to show me ? ❞ It hadn't taken them much to learn how to read the fellow blond like an open book. Her giddiness gave her away regularly and paired up with the fact that she had been gone for hours - one could effortlessly deduct that the fae was up to something.

What exactly ? It doesn't take a genius to know when she got the profile of someone that would INDULGE in the present festivities. Wouldn't be so out of character for her to go around giving gifts to everyone in the city; To friends, family ( a BUNNY family if their hypothesis was correct ), and a partner if she even had one. Honestly, everything about her pointed out that a celebration like this would be her favorite. So if Honey had been in the urban side of town while they were asleep, it meant that something HAD happened. Tomoya plays with the stick of hay in their mouth upon her arrival, standing fully up when the other giggled. ❝ C'mon, I already know you got something behind your back. Were you gifted something special ? ❞ They will let her show off, take it as part of the included services as her part-time samurai.

She pulls from behind her a gift worth of admiration ( and jealousy ) for those with a sweet spot for the cute and fluffy. Three different manjus shaped like bunnies spread across the dish. The shape made them arch an eyebrow, looking down at the woman. Was this another proof ? PERHAPS. They might take it as such. But going back to the dessert, each was of a different flavour and by the colors of it, they could deduce what they were about; First, white chocolate, not exactly their favorite considering how sweet it could get after the third bite ( little did they know that it had strawberries to mix it up, that's certainly an improvement ). Second, chocolate. Not so sure if it contained dark or semi-sweet but either would be better than the previous. Yes, Tomoya prefered their sweets mild. And third, MATCHA, a blessing to their PALATE. The kind of natural sweetness with a piece of bitterness, sometimes a bit grassy. THAT ONE had to be their favorite by far ( plus to imagine a viridescent rabbit got them chuckling ).

Round, cute and they could assume that undoubtedly delicious. If they had thought it couldn't get better then they were ABSOLUTELY wrong. The crown of this piece resided in that container and when Tomo gave it a closer look, a wiggly pudding cat-like treat presents before them. It is in this instant of realization that they let out a gasp as their violet hues widen up. This treat looking all so similar to the little miss sleeping in the branches of the tree. When Honey wiggles the plate with caution, the pudding moves - for a second looking as if it was dancing. This. . . THIS WAS PERFECT. The dot eyes, a white coating similar to her fur and those small jiggling from one side to another. The flavour didn't matter ( unless it was mint ) when something so cute could be possible ! Gods, it was embarrassing just how easy this could make them smile, even wider than hers to everyone's surprise.

The other hands it to her and the first they do is to give it a quick shake, getting once again that same wiggle. ❝ Honey this is- ! ❞ Whoever had gifted her this had an amazing taste. It's as if this was targeted to them, as if this was meant to no one other than . . .

❝ Wait. . . . IS THIS FOR ME ? ! ❞

Who is the smartest between the two ? At this point, no idea. It took them this much to FIGURE IT OUT by themselves. Their mouth suddenly felt dried and a burning sensation grows in their features. Their gaze shifts from her then back to the treat and again, to HER. Honey didn't have to do any of this yet she did . . . Could it be that she planned this all along ? Was that the reason she told them to wait here ? It does make sense now . . .THAT CLEVER LITTLE RABBIT ( not a rabbit ) ! ! !

They don't know how to reply to this. It's no secret that they aren't USED TO receiving gifts. But the words that came out first felt right to say. Although impossible to keep it for long, they will make every bite count the effort she put in it. ❝ This. . . this is LOVELY. . . THANK YOU. ❞

[ohmytomorrowisthursday]

Until I Fall - Part Seven

Levi Ackerman x Fem Reader.

Eventual romance but this is a slow burn, definitely angsty and darker. It will also focus a lot on Hange, Erwin and the original scouts. Eren and the 104th training corps will be around but I’m focusing on the older characters in here. Your self insert name is ‘Azeria Becker’ pronouns She/Her/Hers. Using a name because don’t like using ‘y/n’.  

Cannon universe. I wrote this for myself but I hope that you enjoy it, too lol <3

As you stood in front of Levi on that final day, you couldnt help but remember every last moment of your time in the scouts. How had you gone from that scrawny young rookie trying to fight titans to Erwin’s right-hand soldier who overthrew the government and was about to charge to your death? It was never fair, you’d never get enough time together. Standing before him, his eyes full of the sadness of the truth, it hurt too much to say Goodbye, don’t forget me. I’ll love you forever, so instead you said the only word that you could manage to speak; Survive.

cw: imagine literally every awful/gory thing that happens in SNK. Death, violence and gore. Drinking, sex.

I will be releasing 2 chapters at a time every few days. You can find all chapters here.

You were up and ready for your early morning training faster than usual. It was so hard to fall asleep, you were far too excited; Ilse and you talked for hours about the next expedition. And Levi. You hadn't expected him to do this for you. It's not that he was unkind, its just that it seemed like he found you annoying. Maybe you were wrong about him. There was so much that you still didn't know. He was older than you by a few years- not too many, but life seemed to have wore his edges down. His eyes were tired and you could tell he had been through hell. Maybe one day he would finally open up and tell you more.

The winter air felt like ice when you went out to train int he morning. "Hey, moron," Levi remarked as he met with you in front of your dormitory, "Wipe that stupid look off your face, it's too early to be this happy."

You kept walking, happy to ignore his grumpy disposition.  "You know what," you said with a little hum, "You can't ruin my mood today. I'm too excited about joining Captain Erwin on the next expedition."

"Tsk. Don't get your hopes up too high. If you stay this bad it'll be your first and last time out with us." He groaned, but you knew that you were up for it. You had only gotten faster and stronger since the 26th expedition out, and it was bound to be easier this time.

"You're just mad that I'm as good as you now, and that's why you don't want me to join," You nudge him a little and he grumbled. "Let's just see what happens, brat."

Training with Erwin was not like training with your previous squad. They spent more time sitting around tables and planning than running drills. Erwin was confident and to the point. They had new gear that he wanted to test out; signal guns that had different colours to indicate whether a titan was spotted, the area was clear, or if there was a problem. It made you nervous to have to test out new equipment with them; you had never even fought alongside them, what if you messed everything up?

Finally, it was time to drill. "Azeria, how are you feeling?" Erwin asked you. He seemed kind, but he wasn't soft when he spoke. He was like a king among men when it came to the scout; so many of you were rough around the edges, scared and motivated by survival. Captain Erwin never seemed to feel any of it, or at least if he did it was buried in some vault deep behind his eyes. He was always perfectly composed. "I'm okay, Captain. I've never used a signal gun like this before." You examined the contraption in your hands; it wasn't like the handguns you had seen the Military Police carrying; instead it was small and light, with a wide barrel for the smoke bombs.

"You'll be just fine. It's a new tactic for everyone, just do your best."

And so, you did. Even though it was just training, everyone seemed as ready as they'd be in a real battle. Mike and Levi were by far the fastest, disappearing into the trees before your eyes. It only became apparent as to where they were when you saw the smoke signal up in the sky. Hange; they were the boldest. When a 'titan' was spotted she always found a creative way to maneuver herself into a high range spot as fast as she could. Her and Moblit took on the titans as a team. You were paired with Oliver; a soldier from the training corps before you. He was young, but had managed to kill 2 titans during his first two missions. "Okay, rookie, here's the plan; you do the spotting and I'll do the killing," He said. You let out a snort.

"Fine, but you'll have to keep up with me!" You clipped your horse and ran straight ahead into the woods. "Hey!" He yelled after you. You were determined to prove yourself to Erwin and the group; you wouldn't be slowing them down. You spotted the fake titan in the bushes and let out a flair. "Good, Azeria! Keep it up!" Erwin called from behind. Using your ODM gear you shot up into the trees to practice luring the titan, Oliver flew in a few seconds later and sliced the neck. "How are you so fast?!" He exclaimed, landing on the tree beside you. It made you even more determined to do well.

Behind, Erwin was riding with Hange, watching the teams youngest soldiers. "Hmmf," Hange let out a laugh, "Not bad for a trainee." Erwin smiled. "Not bad at all."

After running the drill you were exhausted. Dinner could not come fast enough. Erwin's squad was the first in; the group was so experienced that training at times seemed a little pointless. There was no way Levi and Mike needed to run drills.

"You did well today," Hange said, joining you at the table. Your cheeks were pink with exhaustion and you couldn't even imagine what your hair looked like. "Thank you, but I think you all just make it easy for me." They smiled, "A team is only good if everyone works together. Just because you're new doesn't mean that you're worse; we've just had more time to fight those monsters than you."

You paused, staring at your plate. "I just don't want to hold us back. When we're back out there."

"You won't. I know you wont. Making it back alive from your first expedition is a good sign that you'll survive, and if you keep doing what you did today, you'll be fine." Hange replied, "Plus, I'm certain that Levi's been making sure that you're ready." You looked over to him, sitting down at the other end of the table. He glanced over at you, and let out a smile. You felt your chest tighten a little and your cheeks go pink. Why do I want to impress you so bad? All you wanted was to see him smile more.

chapter eight

[00katrinka00]

Landcaster Legacy Gen 6 Update #11

The following day Mads got herself ready for a girls day with her sisters. As excited as she was to spend the day with her sisters she still couldn't stop thinking about Ethan. Finals had come and gone, and in the chaos of passing their exams Mads hadn't been able to talk to him.

While waiting to leave Mads decided she should have a chat with her oldest sister, Alyssa, today and ask for advice. Alyssa had her own experience with boys and relationships so Mads knew Alyssa would probably have the most insight on what Mads' next step with Ethan should be.

At brunch all the Landcaster sisters sat down together. Mads tried bringing up the Ethan situation to Alyssa. "Hey Lyss, I kind of wanted your advice on something"

"Yeah, no problem," Alyssa said.

"Well,"

"What are you two talking about over there?" Mads' sister Jane interrupted.

"Oh nothing, really," Mads said. She loved all of her siblings, but sometimes Mads found it hard being the youngest, because all her siblings, especially her sisters, liked to but their head into her business.

"Suit yourself," Jane shrugged just as their food was brought out.

After brunch all the Landcaster sisters decided to head to the nail salon.

Later while the rest of her sisters were still getting their nails done Mads was able to sit down alone with her older sister. "Hey, how's everything going?" Mads asked. "How's Alex?"

"He's so great, it's amazing to be with a guy that actually helps take care of the kids."

"That's nice I'm glad," Mads smiled.

"You wanted to talk to me earlier at brunch?" Alyssa asked.

"Yeah, I wanted your advice on something," Mads told her sister and began to explain everything that happed with the study date, and how she didn't know where she stood with Ethan.

"Just call Ethan up," Alyssa told her. "Ask him on a date and see where things go."

"But I'm scared that if we don't work out romantically that it'll ruin our friendship," said Mads.

"Things will never get better unless you talk to him,"

"You're right, thanks Alyssa."

Later that night Mads decided to call Ethan up. "Hey, I wanted to see if you would like to go on a date with me," Mads said just as Ethan answered the phone.

"You're asking me on a date?" Ethan asked confused.

"Yes, want to meet me at the pumpkin patch in Brindleton tomorrow?"

The following morning Mads was beyond nervous for her date with Ethan. She didn't know why she was so nervous; she'd hung out with Ethan plenty of times before, this time just felt different. Mads cycled through several different outfits looking for the right one to wear.

All of Mads' nerves went away as soon as she saw Ethan. "I'm glad you decided to ask me out," Ethan told Mads as soon as they saw each other.

"Me too," Mads grinned and then pulled him in for a hug.

Mads and Ethan took the time to catch up and talk about the new term. Ethan expressed his excitement over this being in final term in university. Then all of a sudden, a wave of sadness washed over Mads and Ethan sat her down on the bench.

"What's wrong, did I say something?" Ethan asked.

"No," Mads muttered. "I just, well I grew up in Brindleton Bay, and my parents took me and my siblings here every year when we were children. I was just remembering my mom."

Ethan nodded sympathetically. He knew Mads' mother had passed away shortly before she had started High School. He couldn't imagine losing one of his own mothers. Ethan pulled Mads in and kissed her forehead. "We can just sit here for a little bit, if you want" he told her.

After a while Mads' mood lifted. As much as she missed her mother, she was excited to be here on a date with Ethan. Soon the couple decided to go roller skating. "I'm really not good at this," Ethan called after Mads.

"Me neither, don't...ahh!" Mads exclaimed as she fell to the ground with a thud. Ethan quickly tried to turn around as to avoid skating into Mads, but with no luck. In trying to skate backwards he tripped and fell crashing to the ground joining Mads.

Deciding that was enough roller skating for the day, Mads and Ethan decided to get some apple cider. They sat at a picnic table and chatted soon deciding to play the horseshoe toss game when they were both finished with their drinks.

After their game Mads and Ethan decided to try out the maze. "Are you sure we aren't lost?" Mads asked.

"Just trust me, I know exactly where we are," Ethan told her.

"We're definitely lost," Mads said again.

"No, we're not," Ethan insisted.

"Ha, see! We weren't lost," Ethan exclaimed. He put a finger to Mads' chin. "You shouldn't have doubted me."

"I was doubting you because we were lost in there for a while," Mads told Ethan and then grabbed his face. "But it's okay," Mads whispered and then kissed him.

They spent some time picking out pumpkins in the patch before heading over to the carving tables.

After spending most of the day outside, Mads and Ethan headed into the barn to warm up. After a few drinks Ethan dragged Mads' onto the dance floor and led her through a swing dance.

"Where did you learn to dance like this?" Mads asked.

"My Moms used to dance around the living room with me and my sisters like this," Ethan explained before twirling Mads around and kissing her.

As the day began to draw to a close Mads and Ethan said their goodbyes.

"I had a really good time today," Ethan told her.

"I did too, we should do this again sometime soon," Mads grinned.

Ethan took her hands, "actually I wanted to ask you something."

"According to Jackie I've been pretty obvious about all of this, but I've had a crush on you for a while," Ethan began to say. He felt a pit form in his stomach. What if this was too soon? But they had been friends for a few years now.

"If you maybe, feel the same way, then would you maybe want to be my girlfriend?" Ethan asked. Seeing Mads' face light up let him know that this was in fact the right choice.

"Yes!" She exclaimed, and then they kissed.

[assbutt-writes]

A Heart Of Iron Chapter 23

Chapter below cut

LOKI

It had been less than a day since Steve had dragged him back to the tower, and Loki was pissed. He was pissed at Steve for dragging him back to the tower, for trying to make him tell Tony what was going on, and, most of all, for taking Tony from him. He knew that the last one wasn't Steve's fault and that Loki hadn't even told Tony his feelings, but he couldn't help but resent the man who had turned his entire life here upside-down.

He was also pretty damn pissed at himself. If he had told Tony, maybe things would have gone differently and he would have at least had a chance. Instead, he ran away like he always did and effectively ruined what little chance he had.

A knock suddenly snapped him out of his thoughts, and he let out a groan before slowly peeling himself off of his bed and walking to the door. He looked through the peephole before taking a step back and opening the door.

"Thor? I didn't know you were back already," Loki said, voice slightly hoarse from crying.

"I just got back, and I managed to get our final team member!" Thor said, a slightly guilty look on his face.

"Thor, what did you do?" Loki asked, not having the patience for anything else right then.

Just then, his eyes focused on the man behind Thor. He took a step back, face white with horror.

"You did not bring him here," Loki hissed, subconsciously summoning a dagger into his hands.

"He said you would be okay with it! It's been over a hundred years since everything with Ko-" Thor started, and within the blink of an eye the dagger was at Thor's throat, Loki not even noticing his own body moving.

"You finish saying that name and Tyr will be going home in so many pieces that even Eir won't be able to put him back together," Loki said, voice dangerously low.

"Look, I'm sorry about what happened with you-know-who, but Tyr could be of great use to us in the fight against Thanos," Thor said, and Loki rolled his eyes.

"So I'm just supposed to get over the fact that you brought my dead ex's best friend to help us in a fight?" Loki scoffed, "I'm going to need to be able to trust my team with everything I have because the entire universe is on the line, and we both know how things ended the last time I saw him."

"I know, but he may be our only option. No one else was both willing to fight and able to. Trust me, Loki, I tried," Thor said, and Loki shook his head.

"Then we'll go with four. I'm not joining a fight to the death with him at my side," Loki said. He then pushed past Thor and Tyr, not even giving the latter a second glance.

As he was walking away from them, he heard a commotion downstairs and decided to check it out. It seemed like everyone in the tower was crowded around the couch, and Loki didn't know if Tony was there, but he knew that, if he was, he would probably want Loki to leave him alone, so Loki used an illusion to hide himself.

"-any sense," Bruce was saying, frantically typing on a tablet.

"I know," Tony sighed, "She just said that I seemed to have a connection to an alternate universe, and that I am seeing parts of their lives that are supposed to help me beat Thanos. Apparently, whenever I had a vision, my astral body would start to glow red and that meant that one of the Infinity Stones likes me?"

Fuck.

TONY

Tony heard a gasp and looked up from where he was sitting on the couch and talking to Bruce, but the place where it came from was empty. He thought that it was probably just his imagination and went back to his explanation.

"She said that she couldn't stop them but that it was a good thing because they're supposed to help me prepare for the fight with Thanos. I don't know, it just feels like they're more trouble than they're worth. I mean, how can me seeing a kid die help me fight Thanos if I don't even know how to kill him?" Tony rambled.

"I don't know, either, but there has to be a reason that you got it. An infinity stone wouldn't just give you these visions for no reason," Pepper said, and Tony shrugged and accepted what she said, too tired to argue.

"Well, I'm getting pretty tired, so I'm going to head to my room and go to sleep," Tony said, rolling to the elevators.

He barely made it to his bed before he was out cold.

Tony is struggling with Thanos, grabbing onto his gauntlet with everything he has. He knows that if he doesn't win this fight, then it was all for nothing. Natasha's death, them going back in time, and the entire last five years will all be for nothing if he doesn't get this right. Thanos throws him backward, Tony losing his grip on the gauntlet in the process. Thanos adjusts the gauntlet back on his arm, and moves to snap.

"I am inevitable," he says, and he snaps.

Nothing happens. Thanos looks at the gauntlet with sheer confusion and turns over the gauntlet to look at the stones, but they're gone. He looks back over at Tony, who has the hand of his suit up, the stones floating into place on the gauntlet that Tony built into the suit. When they fit into their respective places, lines of energy shoot through Tony's veins, engulfing his arm in white-hot agony. The painful energy carves gashes into the suit, glowing with the colors of the stones, and Thanos looks at Tony with a mixture of surprise and horror.

"And I." Tony is breathing heavily with the effort of not showing how much it hurts. Thanos doesn't deserve to see his weakness, not after everything that he did.

"Am." His breathing becomes steady, him finally realizing that this is it. This is how he goes. And he thinks he's okay with that, dying to save the world.

"Iron Man." He snaps, and his vision is filled with a blinding white light. Once it clears, he stumbles over to a piece of wreckage, he's not even sure what of, and falls against it, every breath feeling like a burning-hot knife is slowly cutting through his chest. He falls down so that he's sitting against the wreckage, seeing Rhodey in a suit of armor that's not unlike his own suit touch down in front of him. Rhodey walks over to him and leans down, reaching out to cradle Tony's face with his hand. Peter swings down to Tony, bloody face looking at him with a mixture of terror and shock.

"Mr. Stark?" Peter asks, breathing shakily. Rhodey looks down sadly and backs away, letting Peter come forward. "Hey. Mr. Stark. Can you hear me? It's Peter." Peter's voice sounds like he's one second away from bursting into tears. "Hey. We won, Mr. Stark.  We won, Mr. Stark. We won! You did it, sir, you did it. I'm sorry, Tony. "

Pepper comes up behind Peter and rests a hand on his shoulder as he stands up sobbing. Pepper crouches in front of him.

"Hey," she says softly, resting a hand on Tony's chest. With the last bit of energy he has, Tony puts his hand over hers.

"FRIDAY?" Pepper asks the suit's A.I.

"Life functions critical," the A.I. responds sadly.

Tony manages a weak smile, trying to comfort Pepper, and she returns the smile, looking like she's going to cry but is trying to be brave.

"Tony? Look at me," she says, and he tries to move his head to face her, "We're going to be okay. You can rest now."

Tony takes a breath, and the world fades into black.