[[Links to Page 2 of Starlight's tag chronologically because it starts with the SOTDT chapters Starlight is involved in and onwards . Page 1 is much older stuff I did with Starlight. Which also links to my old opinions of many moments during the show's run about Starlight, some of which doesn't hold up as much anymore.]]

[[Geniequestria has a next button for all story parts, so just linking to the first part.]]

((Just a fun little thing showing 2 flavors of Starlight that I have going. Both blogs now star Starlight in some huge fashion but they're very different depictions. Some 15.ai lines for the meme referred to between the two Starlights too.

I Dream of Twilight Sparkle's Starlight is of course giving Genie Twilight's universe's answers to most of the mysteries of Starlight's past that was left open by the show (Though should not be taken as me saying that I think is canon, as I've mentioned many times before. As some of it can only work within the lore of I Dream of Twilight Sparkle and other differences from canon such as Equestria Girls having not happened in Genie Twilight's universe. Which should explain a pretty obvious character's appearance that's been around to help explain this Starlight's past) She still did everything that is most infamous of her from Season 5, but now there's something of an explanation that's deeper layered then just Sunburst's leaving (Although that certainly at the very least, was the final straw for her)

Geniequestria's Starlight on the other hand, doubles down on her evil self from Season 5. Even outright taking place in what is an alternative Season 5 finale in that blog's continuity. Entirely different genie lore from I Dream of Twilight Sparkle or any of the other genies in Ain't Never Had Friends Like Us (Which speaking of which, if you're wondering if genie Starlight's going to be added there... I'm afraid I'm going to have to tell you that probably isn't happening for the foreseeable future.) As warned in the picture above though, the subject matter does get into things that are way above IDOTS that has remained for the most part show-tone friendly. Though it'll never show or explicitly describe stuff that might risk it being too much for a Post-NSFW Purge Tumblr....(Though I do have a DeviantArt account as a back-up, should it actually be deemed too much for some reason) Just be warned that there will be plenty of suggestive themes and hints of off-screen naughtiness going on there.

Both blogs also of course have the Mane 6 and plenty of the other characters around. But it's certainly Starlight that's going to be the key to continuing on for a while. She's the recurring character with the most left open after the end of the show. So in an environment where G5's going to be the official stuff with a very unlikely chance that Starlight even gets as much of a mention. She's pretty much a key for fanworks that want to keep going with stories specific to Gen 4. (I should once again reiterate that Gen 5 will not be applied to I Dream of Twilight Sparkle much at all, there may be something for Geniequestria at some point. But it'll be a little while until then. And even then, won't play any sort of major role) Not even the IDW comics ever expanded on Starlight, so it's entirely up to fanworks to do so.

So I'm just sharing the two flavors of Starlight that I'm providing. Whether you want a wholesome Starlight that is about as pure and understanding that we can make somepony who almost rebooted a timeline, or a Starlight that didn't time travel but instead now has the power to do what she wills with the world, if you have a thing for powerful villains and/or evil genies.

Or if both are to your tastes, because both is good :) ))

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRINCESS TWILIGHT SPARKLE AND SPIKE

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

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

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

LUSTER DAWN

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

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

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

((Just in time for spoop month!

Featuring an ask from @askbananapie))

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

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

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

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

I always look forward to seeing her alongside her husband again

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starlight: ...Genie simulation, heh?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Speaking with the spirit of Sunset Shimmer 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It's Ocellus who steps forward first.

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

Arista nods

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

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

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

The spirit giggles at the slight pun

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

Ocellus beams

Ocellus: Deal!

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

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

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

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

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?! 

(Part 2 coming as early as next week!)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chrysalis: Some Queen I am...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chrysalis: N-no! Stay away from me!

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

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

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

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

Starlight: Quickly! Follow me!

Nightmare Moon: Agh! Annoying pest!

Daybreaker: That will not save you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starlight gasped too at the familiar voice.

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

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

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

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

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

Cardiac looks to the shadows with a sinister smirk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starlight growled

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

This dark form of Twilight just laughs

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

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

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

The I Dream of Twilight Sparkle Index

Since Tumblr seems to have broken much of the sidebar functionality at least on redux sites. I thought I'd move all important links to it's own post.

I Dream of Twilight Sparkle FAQ #1 - FAQ for more general stuff from early on in the blog

I Dream of Twilight Sparkle FAQ #2 (Secrets of the Dragon's Tear edition) - FAQ related to a large story that impacts almost all recent posts since 2021

Mod Blog - Go here to ask the mod/me questions if you're ever curious or just want to get to know me (I also have a Discord account and/or server you can join if that's a preferable. Though I'll have that now as a simply ask me if you want to contact me there.

Ain't Never Had Friends Like Us - A group blog focused on specifically genie ponies. Although as of recent kind of low on new exclusive posts. I also reblog most Genie Twilight posts here

Geniequestria - A brand new genie pony story that's on the more more mature side starring a genie version of the evil Starlight Glimmer from Season 5. It'll never go as far as to show or describe explicit acts, but there may be plenty of implications of not so family-friendly stuff sprinkled throughout.

Episode Responses - Back when Friendship is Magic I did weekly episode reponses to most episodes between Season 3 and Season 9. Not all episodes were responded to especially Season 9-wise. But here's an index of each season's tag

Season 3 - Season 4 - Season 5

Season 6 - Season 7 - Season 8 - Season 9

Specials - These are particular important, special, or otherwise noteworthy parts of IDOTS history that I want to give special spotlight to. They range from important plot point stories, to simply fun moments between some characters.

Origin Story - How it all began! How Twilight became a genie, and chose to stay one in the first place

Twixie Genies Crossover (And Reunion) - Some crossovers between the unfortunately defunct Twixie Genies blog and my Genie Twilight!

Mane 6 Genie Simulation - Twilight putting the rest of the Mane 6 through the Genie Simulation for the first time. A temporary genie transformation that allowed them to feel what it's like to be a genie, without any of the responsibility of power.

Genie Sickness Arc - A month long arc that had Twilight become sick and eventually has to ask Discord to help

Motherly Revelation/Anniversary - The moment where Twilight and Spike adopted eachother as Mother and Son in the blog's continuty. Prepare for d'awww's.

I Dream of TwiDash - The moment where Twilight and Rainbow Dash realized they loved eachother very much and will have plenty of children an- Phbbbbt, not actually. This was an April Fools special I did for fun. Although, you could say I did actually go through with something like this for real over on Ain't Never Had Friends Like Us...

Mother's Day Special - A special starring Twilight's mother, Twilight Velvet. Some details I admit I'd retcon if I had done the story more recently. But at the time there was barely anything known about Twilight's mom. So alot of it was just personal headcanon of Twi's mom's personality and such.

Trixie Reunion - Trixie returns to Ponyville to inform Twilight of her intention to move here. Twilight and Trixie are on better terms between eachother then Twilight and Trixie were in Season 6 of the show. Hence why she had no problem with Trixie in the No Second Prances episode response.

Return to Saddle Arabia - The first major text story of the blog! Twilight and Spike return to Saddle Arabia for the first time since Twilight was genified. They find lots of new friends... but also a very dangerous enemy.

Genie Ember-lation - A simple Genie simulation sequence done between my Genie Twi and a friend of mine's OC

Secrets of the Dragon's Tear - An even larger text story that seeks to answer many unanswered questions leftover from the end of Friendship is Magic in the I Dream of Twilight Sparkle universe. And take things to a bold new direction that have impacted this blog ever since. Just a heads up, this is a LOOOOOOOOOONNNNG story.

Pinkie Pear Pie - Are Applejack and Pinkie Pie actually related in the I Dream of Twilight Sparkle universe? Read this, and you'll find out!

Starlight's Sisterly Simulation - Twilight performs the genie simulation on Starlight Glimmer again, this time without a reluctant Trixie.

IDOTS Stories - More one-shot stories (Though it also contains the chapters of Earnest Empathetic Change) that either take place or are related to events to Secrets of the Dragon's Tear

Earnest Empathetic Change - 10 Years after Twilight took sole rule in Canterlot, Starlight is tasked with reforming none other than Queen Chrysalis. Can she thaw the ice cold queen's heart?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starlight: Good afternoon, Chrysalis!

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

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

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

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

Starlight nods, and gives a warm smile

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

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

This gave Chrysalis some pause.

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

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

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

Starlight chuckles a little before her face turns more serious

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

((Note: This is Part 2 of 2 of a crossover story with a friend of mine's character that delves into a what if they were in the I Dream of Twilight Sparkle universe. Here is their twitter (However, must of course warn that you will find NSFW art here)

Chronologically, this falls 5 years after the defeat of Cozy, Tirek, and Chrysalis. And also 5 years before Earnest Empathetic Change begins.

Just like the story where Nova Spark met up with Geniequestria Starlight, this serves as a B-canon in that it's canon if you want it to be. But won't likely effect stuff outside this story. We brainstormed and wrote this together, while my friend did all the supporting art for this))

Sunset would be able to hear Nova and Fury gasp at their new appearance. 

Nova: (W-woah! We got more traits than expected! I think we look pretty good! And even though neither Fury or I am in control… I feel more powerful than ever! Look, even our cutie mark changed, remarkable! This is less assimilation and more of a fusion!) 

The senses that were now returned to Sunset for the first time in years, combined with their newfound magical power. It was as if they were a brand new pony!

Nova: (Hahaha! We're so happy for you, Sunset! I told you it was possible to make this work!) 

Nova beamed 

Nova: (Even… if I was on the verge of almost giving up. We pulled through in the end! Hah, place your bets, who will freak out first when they see us. Twilight or Starlight? My bet's on Twilight considering Starlight hasn't met us yet.)

Sunset didn't have much reason to doubt Nova as she mentioned it in their discussion within the mind. But to actually feel blood coursing through her veins again, real skin and flesh. It felt odd after being a spirit for so long. But it nonetheless felt great. There was one thing she had to do now...

Sunset walked on over to the section covering her death. Looked at the figures of her murderers, and conjured a five fingered hand. Flipping the bird at them.

Sunset: HA! Take that, you good for nothing flankholes! I'm back! Hahahahaha!

She knew it wasn't really them, and she thanks goodness it isn't. But it was satisfying nonetheless 

Both Nova and Fury were somewhat taken aback by Sunset's first action in their body, cursing out her murderers. But considering they got to feel her emotions and pain not too long ago, this was understandable. 

Fury: (Ha! You tell em! You can now come back and they NEVER will! Oh and Nova, I'm jumping in on that bet, Starlight will freak out first. I mean she'll actually get to hug her mom for the first time even if it's a different body. I think that holds more precedence.)

Sunset: (A bit of a correction there, Fury. Starlight was able to hug me as a spirit, but our first actual hug in real bodies will certainly be... something special.)

Fury chuckled

Fury: (Ah I see, well my point still stands though!)

Sunset herself begins to get a feel for the power. She shivers with the magic coursing through her body.

Sunset: Wow... how strong are we now...? I've felt what it's like to have power... but I could almost swear this dwarfs even my own power in my prime... You don't think... that this fusion made us a... half-spirit like Twilight. Not exactly a genie since the 'vessel' is you Nova, but still some of the same abilities. If it's true, we might have the ability to shift our backside into a ghostly tail and fly like that. Do you girls want to give that a try to test it out?

And if that works... even wishes might be on the table! 

Sunset does raise a good question about their power. It doesn't just feel like one was added to the other, rather it felt like it had multiplied! So it's no wonder why Nova had struggled to hold it in. Nova paces around in their mind to think. 

Nova: (I...suppose the process is far more in depth than we could have realized. This is new ground for all of us. I hadn't even thought we'd have magical power like this. But just look at our mane for example, it moves like Celestia or Luna's does! If we're half spirit in the technical sense... )

A wide grin comes across her face as Sunset is also putting things together. 

Nova: (It's a shame we don't get the attire but being an equivalent to a genie!? Hahaha! With spiritual power and potentially wish granting abilities!?! You think either of us are going to say no to some test runs?! Fury, you ready to show the world what we're capable of?)

Fury gives as big of a grin 

Fury: (Are you kidding? I'm more than ready, though just remember, it's ultimately up to Sunset as she's the one in control. But you can deal with that, can't you?) 

She asks in a teasing tone

Nova grumbles, knowing that the lack of control does usually bother her. 

Nova: (Hmph! I-I'll be fine! We can still feel all the power from within here so it's fine, especially with Sunset at the helm! I'm sure we uh… we'd be quite reckless with it. Though I won't lie, I do want to know what our maximum power is right now, this just feels incredible! Nothing like what we've ever felt before!) 

Sunset: If this works, I'll only do a quick fly through the museum. Don't want to freak out all of Sire's Hollow with a random pony they might not even recognize that it's me and/or Nova right away. But alright, let's try this...

Sunset takes a deep breath focusing some magic, something of a spiritual aura seems to surround them as they get to use the magic of a spirit for the first time. Sunset levitates off the ground, and mid-air she places her hindlegs parallel to each other.. She then gently moves them up and down, simulating a bit of a wave, soon her tail and the end of her hooves give way, starting to merge and stretch. Slowly moving up until it stops at just below their hips. A relaxing feeling washed over all three of them inside as they use their magic to defy gravity.

Sunset: Well, would you look at that! It worked!

Now... let's get going!

Sunset flies around the museum exhibits. Her life flashing before her eyes... in a literal sense. As she circles pass her life's memorabilia over and over again. 

Nova: That sounds reasonable, and there's more than enough space for a test flight. 

Both Nova and Fury seem excited to see if this will work, but what they didn't expect was that the magic Sunset was channeling would affect them within the mindscape! They gained an aura around them as well as Sunset used their magic. A blue one for Nova and a red one for Fury, they too began to levitate as the magic coursed through their body! 

Nova: (W-woah! Fury, we're flying!! And uh oooh, this actually doesn't feel too bad! Is this what it's like to be a spirit? The lack of hindlegs takes a moment to get used to but… I don't hate it!) 

Like Sunset was doing on the outside, Nova and Fury began to fly around inside their head.

Fury: (This is insane! I feel lighter than ever and yet so relaxed too. Look at our auras!)

Fury said in an amazed tone 

Fury: (Sunset, this is incredible, our body is holding up just fine too, yeah? Hey see if we can go through walls like you did!] 

Going past all of the exhibits once more, a thought popped into Nova's head 

Nova: (Hey, you think with the discoveries we make in the next few days, we'll have to add a new section to your museum? I mean these findings are going to be massive for all of Equestria! If this is what's happening to us, we may have just stumbled onto how ponies can use spirit magic for themselves!!)

Sunset stops herself to think about what Nova said.

Sunset: That seems like something we'd have to be careful with however. We can't just let EVERYPONY get a spirit inside them. They'd have to be trustworthy, on nearly the same level of making sure they'd be responsible like how genies of Saddle Arabia in the past vetted ponies that would use their power responsibly.

And even besides that, Dragon Tears are still rare. It's not even a 100% guarantee that a dragon who dies will drop one.

That said, I suppose I wouldn't mind an eventual ‘Sunset returns!’ section eventually. 

Nova: (Hmm… that's actually a fair point, if everypony had unfiltered access it could lead to the rise of a more powerful villain and we don't need any more of those. But it's still something worth looking into. From what I've been told about the other elements of harmony bearers for example. I believe the element of Honesty, Applejack, would find this to be beneficial. But as much as I don't want to admit it. We'd probably need to run this by Twilight to prevent spirit magic from getting into the wrong hooves. And also make sure with the summoned spirits that it's not a permanent revival either. I don't think there are many other ponies like us either that understand their own heads and mindspaces. It could get sticky fast....) 

She sounds disappointed at first but perks up moments later 

Nova: (But just imagine the possibilities!! And we're going to see her right now anyway so I guess we'll know how she feels soon enough.) 

As Nova suggests going through walls, Sunset remembered that she could touch the wall earlier when she was first trying out her new live body. She knows she'll probably crash if she flew into as she is now. Sunset's happy to be alive in some capacity but she's not looking forward to feeling pain again. And she should also be careful because this isn't her own body. However, with the power coursing through their veins. She thinks of another way. She charges her horn, enveloping herself as her opaqueness fades into transparency. THAT'S when she tries to go through a wall. And it works perfectly.

Sunset: It takes a bit of 'Going Ghost' first but we certainly can!

Nova and Fury internally brace for an impact, they do trust Sunset, but given that she's still getting used to a body and the fact that they weren't sure if this would work, they wanted to be careful. But they look in awe as Sunset cast a spell allowing them to phase through easily

Fury: (Watching Sunset in action like this it's incredible. I didn't even know such a spell existed. Look at that, you're still able to teach us new tricks and with our own body too!)

Nova: (I KNOW RIGHT?! Fury, we need to be sure to take note of all these spells! It doesn't matter if we will or won't be able to cast them ourselves when we separate but it's something to work towards! Hehehe actually… you wanna give the receptionist one more jolt before we head out, Sunset?)

Sunset giggles about spooking the receptionist again.

Sunset: As fun as that would be, I think I'll be nice and spare her another scare. It might even be worse since she might not even recognize us now. She's willing to forgive me... most of the time... but not if she doesn't recognize that I'm half of what's scaring her.

Sunset also flies back down onto the ground. Reverting the ghostly tail back to her and Nova's tail and hindlegs. Satisfied enough with that test.

Nova and Fury sigh, but Sunset is right. The receptionist didn't seem too fond of them already so to scare them now that they're unrecognizable seems like a poor choice. When Sunset undoes the magic that allowed her to fly, both Nova and Fury find themselves back to normal as well.

Nova: (Huh, that's interesting we've got our legs back. Fury, you're used to being in here more than I am. Is this normally what happens to you when I take on a new form?) 

Fury: (Kind of? Honestly, with Sunset in charge it feels different. Not bad, but just different.)

Sunset: Say I wonder when Twilight's coming ba-

As if on cue, a portal opens up not far from where Sunset was standing. Twilight has her eyes closed with a smile.

Twilight: I'm back Nova and Sunset! I checked on Spike and he's holding up pretty well, I'm so proud of my boy! What have you two be... en... up... to....?

She opened her eyes as the end of her sentence trailed off. Immediately, seeing not two ponies. But just one, her eyes widen as she can clearly tell there's both Sunset and Nova traits... And her right eye twitches....

Sunset: (Oh boy... incoming Twilighting!)

When Twilight pops back into the museum, Nova can't help but cheer that she's seemingly won her little bet. 

Nova: (HAH I CALLED IT! YES! I love it when I'm right! She might try to undo this by the way, but....actually we're kind of on an even playing field with her now aren't we? Hehehehehe!! That look on her face, oh I will not be forgetting it any time soon! Oohh ooh Sunset, you should try acting like me, go along with the bit! I haven't told Twilight anything about this experiment so she probably thinks I'm still in charge. Just make sure to call her by her last name to be convincing!) 

Fury rolls her eyes, but she can't help but laugh along with Nova as well

Fury: (Alright alright, you win but who knows, Starlight could come in any second and we get the student teacher freakout!)

Twilight: WHAT THE ACTUAL HAY?! Nova! Did you just... ABSORB Sunset?!