Before she could get a word out, Chrysalis spoke. “You don’t understand. I used her… I…” Chrysalis broke off, her words feeling forced and cheap.
“You were still broken, but don’t lie to me. I know that look in your eye. I saw it when Rain Shine looked at you.” Autumn paused. “I just want you to know you’re pretty.” Autumn’s eyes drifted to Chrysalis’s form, causing the mare to blush, then shake her head as if Autumn’s lingering gaze startled her.
“I’m not pretty. I’m hideous and I like myself that way.” Chrysalis snarled and continued walking. Autumn continued backwards.
“You are an amazing pony and have learned so much and have grown even moreso. I believe in you, Chrysalis. There is good in your heart.” Autumn pressed her hoof to Chrysalis’s heart, stopping the dark creature. Chrysalis could feel the tears in her eyes, could feel the pang of pain in her heart. It hurt almost as much as seeing the look in Rain Shine’s eyes as she gazed upon Chrysalis’s true form. Horror, complete and utter betrayal, and disgust.
“I-I…”
And for the first time in Chrysalis’s very long life, she cried. She felt a wave of sadness cover her like a thick blanket and press against her shoulders with a force she had not felt in her lifetime.
Autumn was on her in an instant, placing her hooves around Chrysalis in a hug, holding the pony tight with warm hooves and a kind heart.