Dancing With The Shadows

by Vocal Sweets

Rating: everyone
Tags: Twilight Sparkle, Main 6, Discord, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Romance, Drama, Mystery, Princess Celestia
Length: 147281

Sometimes loving someone isn't all sunshine and rainbows as one may think

What happens when Princess Twilight Sparkle marries The Lord of Chaos?

Happily Ever Afters are for everypony right?

Or maybe not all fairytales are meant to have a happy ending.

Published 2018-11-13 19:40:01 UTC
Last updated 2018-11-13 19:40:01 UTC

Chapter 2

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 4

Chapter 4: The“Flu” Epidemic

Twilight looks at the draconequus, a spark of mischief and hope was in his eyes. She knew he had feelings for her, strong ones for that matter. She just didn't know if she had them back, it's like her head was speaking with logic, but her heart and gut was speaking with feelings and the truth. “Discord, I-”

Discord stops her. “I love you.” He whispers to her. Twilight was slightly taken aback by this. “I'm not sure if you feel the same way, but I really do. Sure you maybe- okay well you are the complete opposite of me, but like others say 'opposites attract.’ I feel like we could be so much more, if you know what your answer is of course. I'm not pressuring you into wanting to be with me. I am just stating my honest opinion and right now-”

Twilight puts a hoof onto Discord's paw. “I love you too.” Twilight gave him a gentle smile.

“R-really?” Discord was baffled a bit. Twilight nods, wrapping her hooves around the draconequus. She gave him a hug that was so full of love, care and attention that he didn't feel like he should pull away at that moment.

Rainbow Dash who were still in the bushes, screams. “It's about time!” Twilight looks up, startled from Rainbow's shouting. “What the- did you know they were here?” Twilight asks Discord.

“I honestly thought they went home I mean it's 10:45 pm.” Discord said. “Will could you excuse me for a second.” Twilight asks.

***

“Do you think she heard my shouting.” Rainbow whispers. “You think!” Rarity hisses in a low enough tone.

In a flash of magenta light Twilight appears in front of the bushes in which the girls were hiding in. “Rainbow, I know you're in there.” Said Twilight, who was slightly unamused.

“Oh, it's more than just me.” Rainbow said, from the bush. The other five came out from inside the bush. “What are you guys doing here? And apparently in the bushes?” Asked Twilight. “Oh hey Twi" she giggles in nervousness and fear as the Alicorn looked into her eyes in anger and unamused "We were just camping here...like friendship camping...that's why we brought this bush with us to add the extra effect!" She says as she tried to pull the excuse off "And then we were making camp fi- this isn't gonna pull off is it..."

The alicorn narrows her eyes. “No.” Twilight’s voice was deadpanned. “Okay, Twilight the truth is..” Applejack stated. “It was Pinkie’s idea!”

“What!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Applejack your suppose to be the Element of Honesty!”

“Well it was your idea, Pinkie Pie and that’s the honest truth.” Rarity was the next one to speak up. She noticed that the alicorn was just looking for a straightforward answer, instead of beating around the bush. “Twilight… we may have wanted to see how your date was going along.” Rarity confessed. “So you pretty much, spied on us!” Rage was seething on the alicorn’s expression, mixed with a tad of annoyance.

Discord poofs between the Alicorn and her friends. “Twilight! Wait, before you kill them or fire dangerous magic at them, just thought I let you know that they were only trying to help. They are the ones who pulled this whole thing off.”

Twilight looked over her friends, her tone a lot calmer than before. “Really?”

The girls nodded. “Of course we did. I mean of course it was Discord's idea, overall. We just pulled it together for you two.” Fluttershy spoke up.

A soft smile made its way onto her lips. “Well, thank you girls for everything. You have truly made this the best night ever.” Twilight's voice was full of gratitude.

***

The morning sunlight streams through the curtains of Twilight's bedroom. Yawing, she moves slightly a bit, before getting up and looking around the room with sleep still in her eyes. She looks beside her only to see that Discord wasn't there. Hmm maybe he went to the kitchen, I mean that's always the first place I head to in the morning for some food.

Hopping out of bed, tired and a bit drained, she sluggish made her way to the kitchen. “Good morning, Twilight!” Discord said in a rather cheerful voice. Yawing, she replied back with the same 'good morning’. Twilight sat at the table, waiting. “I made you some pancakes, with whip cream and candy colored sprinkles on top with a strawberry and two blueberries on the side.”

He presents her the dish in front of her face. The pancakes looked warm, fluffy and good enough to eat. “Thank you, Discord.” Twilight was famished, digging her fork into her food. However, her expression read otherwise. Discord watched from a distance. “Twilight? Are you okay.”

“Yeah, I'm just sick at my stomach that all. Maybe it's because I haven't eaten anything yet.” Twilight said.

Levitating her fork once again to her mouth, she quickly dropped it.

“Twilight, you don't look so good. Are you sure you are okay?” Twilight quickly disappears from the kitchen.

Twilight reappears, looking more drained than when she just woke up.

“Good morning, Twili- woah, you don't look so good.” Starlight said, looking at Twilight unkempt appearance. “I know, I've been told.” Twilight said, deadpanned.

Twilight sighs, “Starlight, could you please tell the students that all classes are cancelled for today?” Twilight then trots back up stairs.

Crawling into bed, she wraps herself up into a burrito blanket. Discord watches from the door frame. Poor Twilight, hmm there must be something I could do to help her feel better. Discord takes out an ink and quill and writes a letter to somepony that she hasn't seen in ages.

Dear Spike,

How are things going for you in the Dragon Lands? Anyways, you are probably wondering why I am writing to you on behalf of Twilight. You see she hasn't been feeling well all morning and I was just thinking seeing your friendly face would brighten up her day. Hope to see you soon!

PS: Tell Ember I said hi and as for you congrats on becoming a dad!

- Discord

Discord snaps his claws and sent the letter. Hopefully that will bring a smile to her face.

***

Deep within the caves of the Dragon Lands, the dragons lived peacefully amongst the ponies of Ponyville. Thanks to Lord Ember, of course. Even Garble, got along with the ponies from time to time, okay it was like extremely rare.

“Dad! You got a letter?” A tiny blue dragon announces. Spike grins, walking toward the little dragon. “Thanks, squirt.” He takes the letter from the young dragon’s claw. “Remember the time I told you, about the ponies down in Ponyville, Kunzite?” The little blue dragon nods. “Well I was friends with Princess Celestia and practically a little brother to the Princess of Friendship.” He gives a proud, confident smirk to his son.

“You mean, Princess Twilight?” He asks, his eyes widen. Spike nods. “Yeah, we had a bunch of adventures together, but I haven't gotten a letter from Ponyville in years.” He looks back at the letter which is wasn't from Celestia, so it must have been from Twilight.

He unrolls the letter. “Who's it from?” Kunzite asks, pearing from over Spike’s shoulder. “From Discord?” Spike looks at his son. “Hey want to take a trip to Ponyville? There's an old friend that I have been meaning to see.” Spike smiles at his son, who in return gave an exciting grin. “Well, what are you wait for let's go!”

***

“Is there anything else, you need Twilight?” Applejack asks. “I think I will be okay for now. Thanks, Applejack.” Twilight reassures her. Applejack nods, leaving the room she closes the door behind her. Her friends came right over when her friends heard she wasn't feeling well today.

“How is she feeling?” Rarity asks, when Applejack comes from the room.

“She is still a bit under the weather, but she still says she is fine.” Applejack states, looking at Rarity.

“What could have caused her to be sick?” Fluttershy wonders.

“Food poison?” Pinkie Pie wonders.

“I don't think Discord would give Twilight rotten food, Pinkie.” Says Rainbow.

“Well, whatever the reason is. She has been in bed all day.” Starlight says. “I had to go to the school to tell everypony that did came today that class was cancelled.”

“Hey, guys!” Everypony turned their heads to the mysterious stranger that entered Twilight's castle. “How is-” They all gawked at the stranger in awe. “What is everypony staring at?”

“Spikey-Wikey!” Rarity looked at the dragon, baffled and speechless by his appearance. It's been years since, he has seen any of his pony friends, especially Twilight. Rarity looked like she was about to faint, but then she remember that he gave up his crush on her three years ago. She looks, back down.

Spike chuckles. “Yes, Rarity it's me.” He flashes a grin at her. He looks at the other girls in the room. “Hey, is everything okay? I know, Discord sent a letter saying that Twilight wasn't feeling well.” His eyes filled with worry for his sister.

“Well, she said she felt fine, but to be honest she looked like she felt uneasy when I talked with her.” Said Applejack. Spike thought for a moment. “Where is she now?” He asks. “She's still in her room.” Fluttershy spoke up. “I tried to bake her a 'Get Well Soon’ cake, but she got nausea, and starting hiccuping up bubbles?” Everypony looks at Pinkie as if she had lost her mind. “What? She did!” Pinkie whines.

“Maybe you can try talking with her,” Discord asks.

“Hey!” Kunzite said, patting his foot. “I got lost like four times in this castle, you think Princess Twilight could have put out direction signs or a have a map.” He complains.

“Hey, Kunzite buddy! Long time, no see.” Rainbow Dash said, giving him a hoof bump. “Yeah, things have been pretty busy in the Dragon Lands. Yet, it gets pretty boring there.” Kunzite rolls his eyes. “I wish I could just move here instead, you know like dad did when he was younger.”

“Kunzite, you don't always have to be stuck in only one place. You can always visit here! You know that.” Spike said, his tone gentle. “Yeah,” Applejack spoke up. “Even if you feel like your home is in two different places-and in your case it is. You are always welcomed here with open hooves-or in your case claws.”

Kunzite smiles at Applejack. “Thanks, Applejack.” Applejack smiles. “You're welcome, Kunzite.”

“Do you girl's mind taking Kunzite outside? He could really work on his flying skills.” Spike said. “Dad! I can fly just fine!” He whines. “Oh yeah? Well let's see.” He said.
Kunzite attempts to fly, but only stays in the air for a few seconds, before falling to the ground. “Ow!”

“Looks like to me, you could use a bit more practice.” Spike said. “Come on, kid. I can teach you to fly perfect in ten seconds flat.” Rainbow, spreads her wings. “Well since you are practically a Wonderbolt legend, I hope I can learn fast.” Kunzite said, his tone sarcastic, but also hopeful.

Rainbow Dash smirks at the young dragon. “Well, let's just say you better keep up kid.”

Rainbow and Kunzite walks out of the room, the others follow behind.

***

There was a knock on Twilight’s door from the mysterious visitor. Twilight wondered who that could be. “Was somepony in need of a number one assistance?” A familiar voice sounds from the other side of the door.

Spike? Twilight thought to herself. “Come in!” Twilight calls out. Spike enters the room. “Surpri- whoa! Did Pinkie's party cannon full of cake go off in here?” Spike looks around Twilight's room, which was covered in cake frosting along with scorch marks. “Well long story short, Pinkie made a cake, it was caught into a bubble which then pops leaving me to zap the cake with electric. And that is how I ended up here.” Twilight explains. She wipes some frosting from her mane, then hooves.

“Well, you look awful.” Spike said, looking at Twilight. “Geez, thanks for the honesty Spike.” Twilight grumbles, her expression rather blunt.

Spike chuckles. “But you are right, Spike. I do feel and look awful.” Twilight sneeze, which causes butterflies to appear out of thin air. “My magic has been acting off all day.” She grabs a spare tissue from the box. “Well have you been to the doctor? Maybe you came down with the flu. You know it's gotten really bad this year.”

“I have heard. A few ponies I know have caught it, but it's still spreading like wildfire.” Twilight said. “But if I do have the flu, these are some very odd flu symptoms.”

“Uh Twilight,” Spike spoke up. “My mane is on fire isn't it?” Twilight asks, unamused. “Yep.” Spike said. “This is the fifth time it has done that.” Twilight complains, she grabs a fire extinguisher soaking her mane in fire retardant.

“Maybe you should go to the doctor, Twilight. I'm worried about you and so is everypony else.” Spike said.

“Fine! If it will make everypony feel better,I'll go.” Twilight said, getting out of bed. She walks sluggish and slowly towards the door, feeling too weak to even stand up, she collapses to the ground.

“Twilight!” Spike said, worried.

Twilight rises to her hooves. “I could teleport myself to the doctor, but my magic feels so drained. I feel like I would end up in Vanhoover.”

“Here, wait here! I'll get Discord and the girls.” Spike said, flying quickly out of Twilight's room.

Discord and the girls teleported into Twilight’s room. “Twilight, darling. What are you doing out bed?” Rarity asks.

“Well, I'm tired of feeling like crap. So, I’m going to the doctor to see if I can get anything to make me feel at least a little bit better.” Twilight said. “Besides, if it is the flu then I can get some medicine for it and be over it within the next week or so.” Twilight look so weary and drained it was pitiful.

“Do you need somepony to go with you, Twi?” Applejack wonders, worried for her friend.

“That would be great, considering the state I am in at the moment.” Said Twilight, feeling a wave of nausea pass over her.

***

Twilight and Starlight waits in the back room of the doctor’s office. Waiting on the results, of what Twilight hope wasn't the flu.

There was a knock on the door, and the nurse entered the room. “Good afternoon, Miss. Sparkle. How are you feeling your majesty?” Nurse Redheart

“Well I still feel like death,” Twilight grumbles.

“Well on the bright side, you do not have the flu,” the nurse said cheerful.

“Well, what is wrong with her exactly?” Starlight asks, considered for her friend.

The Nurse looked back at her with a clipboard in her hoof. “Well from the looks of the symptoms you have described to me, Miss. Sparkle. May I be the first to say congratulations!”

“Congratulations?” Twilight looks at the mare in confusion.

“Yes! You're having a baby!” The nurse plasters a wide grin on her face.

“I-I’m what?” Twilight mumbles to herself. Twilight was sure she misheard what the nurse said, right? The word 'baby’ wouldn't stop ringing in Twilight's ears.

Starlight looks over at Twilight, who was looking pale. “Thank you.” The nurse nods and walks off, shutting the door behind her. After a moment of silence, Starlight looks to Twilight for an answer.

“So, should we tell the others?” Starlight asked.

Twilight thought for a moment sighing. “Let's go.” Twilight rose from her sitting position, Starlight opens the door which lead to the waiting room.

All five of her friends, even Discord, Kunzite and the girls looked at her with concern.

“So, what did the Doctor say, Twilight?” Rarity was the first to speak up, from the silent group.

Twilight gathers her scattered thoughts trying to figure out how to break the news to her friends. She looks over at Starlight for reassurance. Sighing, Twilight mutters only loud enough for her friends to here. “I'm… pregnant.” Twilight rubs her front hoof, nervous of her friends reaction.

'What!” They cry in unison.

Discord wasn't sure if he heard Twilight correctly, did she just say she was pregnant? Discord vision blurs before him, the next thing he knew was that his noodle like body was connected to the waiting room floor.

“Discord!” Everypony cries out. “On the bright side, we are already at the hospital.” Pinkie said, trying to lighten the mood a bit.

“Pinkie!” Starlight scolds.

Chapter 5

Chapter 5: Here Comes Discord With A Filly Carriage

Back at the castle, Starlight looked down at a passed out Discord.

“Well this is just great,” mumbles Rainbow Dash.

“He's been out cold for six hours.” Rarity said.

“Does anypony have any water?” Kunzite asks, looking around at the mares. Pinkie dug around in her hair and instead of water, she pulls out a bottle of hot sauce.

“Uh, Pinkie. How hot is that hot sauce?” Applejack questioned looking at the pink bubbly mare.

Pinkie Pie didn’t answer, she unscrews the lid and pours the contents into his mouth.

Discord jerks up his mouth a blazing. “Who had hot sauce?” Discord asks, his used his paw to fan his mouth.

“Whoops! I may have put one too many drops.” Pinkie chunks the bottle in the garbage.

“Wait… where are we? How did I get back to the castle?” Discord, sat up on the bed, glazed and confused as a million questions was running through his chaotic mind.

“Well, we had to teleport you out of the hospital. The nurse thought you was dead after not waking up for the first half hour.” Starlight said.

“We thought we would have to get Tempest to zap you, but Twilight said otherwise.” Fluttershy said. “Speaking of Twilight, where is she?” Discord wonders. He saw the rest of Twilight's friends, but not her in general.

“She is either in the throne room or library signing papers.” Pinkie Pie said. “Well how long has she been in there?” Discord asked. “Hmm well you were out cold for a while, and it's only 2 pm. So I would say ever since we left the hospital.” Pinkie beams. “Wait, why were we at a hospital?” Discord asks.

The mares bit their bottom lip. “Uh, that's something you're going to have to ask Twilight about.” Kunzite said.

***

Twilight paces back and forth in her library. Hyperventilating, she feels like she was on the edge of a mental break down. Her eyes almost filled with tears. As her stomach was filled with knots and anxiety. She felt like she was going to vomit, not from morning sickness, but from all the anxiety she felt.

“What will Shining think? Will he disown me? I mean my friends are already in shock.” Twilight tried to calm herself down, but, she still felt overwhelmed. “I know! I'll move to a foreign country, change my name to Twilight Sprinkle, and change my overall appearance! I wonder if anyone would question if I dyed my coat a pastel lavender?”

The door opened with a creak. Twilight turns around, but it was only Spike. She felt an overwhelming sense of her emotions wash over her: sadness, anxiety, joy.

“Hey, Twilight,” He looks at her frazzled appearance. “Are you okay?” He looks at her with concern. “I'm fine!” Twilight said, her voice on the edge of breaking.

“Okay, well did you get any medicine for the flu?” Spike wonders.

A grim, but nervous smile came upon Twilight's lips. “Actually, it wasn't the flu like we thought it was.” Twilight said.

“Well if it isn't the flu, then what is it exactly.” Spike asks, his voice leaks with curiosity.

Twilight bit her lip, unsure of how to say it. Just tell him, I'm sure he will not judge you.

Twilight lets out a breath of relief. “I'm actually, pregnant.” Spike's eyes were wide, as if he did not know how to process this. “Wait… how?” Spike asks.

“Well…” Twilight tells Spike about the date.

Everything what had happened so far up to her finding out that she was pregnant. “It lead from the date, Discord was such a pleasure to get to know more on a level of understand. It's like we got each other in a chaotic understandable way. One thing lead to another and now here we are.” Twilight said.

Panic and anxiety laced in Twilight's voice, as more thoughts about being a mother entered her mind. “But, I’m just so confused on what I am going to do! I mean what if I'm not a good mother? What if I can not provide what I need for this baby? What if-” Twilight was cut short by Spike, who had his finger over her mouth.

“Twilight, listen to me. I know you are scared, Ember was when she found out she was having Kunzite. I think everypony gets scared of being a first time mother.” Spike said.

“Look, I have known you my whole life! You taken me in after you hatched me from that egg. You took me into your home and made me feel like I was apart of your family! You have always been here for me and your friends, Twi.” Tears start to trickle down the Princess of Friendship's cheeks.

“Now there is no doubt in my mind that we will accept your child as one of us. I know you will be a great mother, Twi.” Spike gave her a small smile. Twilight wipes away the tears, she let out a sniffle and wraps her hoofs around Spike.

She felt a wave of calmness wash over her. “We haven't had a moment like this in forever,” Twilight mumbles to herself, but only loud enough for Spike to hear. “Yeah, it feels good to try and relive the good old times.” Spike chuckles. Twilight sighs, until another thought crossed her mind. “What would Shining think?” Twilight asks, biting her lip.

“What are you talking about? He's your brother I'm sure he will be excited for you.” Spike said, who still embraced Twilight with a hug.

Twilight pushed herself out of Spike's hug and looked at him with concern and worried eyes. Her voice rising a slight. “No, I don't think you understand.” Twilight said, her voice on the brink of nervous.

Spike held his gaze with her. Twilight sighed. “Shining is very- I mean very protective of me, even more than you are Spike.”

“If he knew I was pregnant, he would flip! And possibly kill- well I don't think he has that bad of intentions- but he will do something terrible to the pony who did this! That pony being Discord!” Twilight rambles.

“Well, you can't keep this under wraps forever Twilight. I mean he's going to find out sooner or later.” Spike said. Twilight’s left eye twitched slightly.

“I know that!” Twilight paces back and forth in the room. “I've just got to think of a way to avoid any family contact until I have him/her, especially with Shining.”

Spike sighed. “Well, this isn't going to end well, this is like Lesson Zero all over again except way worse.”

He watched as his purple friend/sister thinks to herself. “Well, however you choose to deal with this situation I hope you have a pleasant outcome.” Spike said, giving Twilight one final hug. “I have to get Kunzite home so he can get a early start tomorrow. He's suppose to be practicing he's flying skills.”

Twilight stopped pacing and looks at Spike, she gave him a small smile before leaving. Twilight turns back to her enormous library, trying to find a book on How To Care For Baby Draconequus. “Out of all the books here, how do I not have a book on: How To Take Care Of Unnatural Creatures?” Twilight flew to the middle section of her library.

Twilight groans in frustration. “You have got to be kidding me.” Twilight throws books after books over her shoulder. “I could have sworn I had a copy of it in here somewhere.”

Discord enters the library, looking around at the mess of books scattered everywhere. “Twilight what are you- whoa!” Said Discord, who dodges a book. Twilight turned toward the sudden yelp. “Oh sorry, Discord.” Twilight said. “Twilight, what are doing?” Discord repeats the question again. Twilight lows herself to the ground.

“I was actually looking for a book on How To Take Care Of Unnatural Creatures, and I can not seem to find it in my library.” Twilight said, sitting on her hind legs.

Discord looks at the Princess of Friendship, his eyebrow raise. “Oh? Is that what you needed? Well I actually have a copy of it back in my realm. I already finished it, but if you need it I can let you have it.”

“Yes, please. Wait what are you doing with a book like that?” Twilight asks. Discord rubs the back of his neck. “Hey there are some interesting facts about rare creatures such as Ursa Minors and even my kind draconequus.” Discord admits. “Such fascinating facts and useful information, if you ask me.” Twilight giggles. “And you call me an egghead.” Twilight teases.

“That's Rainbow Dash’s saying not mine.” Discord gave her a playful smirk, but poofs the book that Twilight needed into existence. “Thanks.” Twilight held the book to her chest. “Hey, Twilight?” Discord asks.

“Hm? What is it Discord?” Twilight asks, her voice was full of care.

“I actually came to ask you. Why were we at the hospital?” Discord questions.

“What? You mean you don't remember?” Twilight looks at Discord a bewilderment look crosses her face. Discord stayed silent, a clear sign that he means no.

“Well you did pass out. Remember when we thought it was the flu?” Twilight asks.

“Yeah, what about it?” Discord wonders.

“Well, turns out it wasn't the flu. I'm actually pregnant.” Twilight gave Discord a grim smile.

“Wait your pregnant? But how? How in Equestria is that even possible! Who's the father?” It was now Discord’s turn to freak out now. Twilight smacks her hoof to her face.

“You are.” Twilight said in a blunt tone.

“Wait what? B-but is that even possible? How? When? What? Did we? Sweet Celestia what have-” Discord stopped rambling. Twilight hovered his eye level, and smacked him with her hoof.

“What was that for?” Discord asks.

Twilight ignores his question, and said this statement instead. “Discord get a hold of yourself, I'm just as freaked out as you are!” she said.

“So, what are we going to do?” Discord asks.

“We are going to keep this private.” Said Twilight. “Private? Why?” Discord questions.

“My friends are okay to know about this, but nopony else!Like the press for example. Especially do not tell my family. Let's just say, Shining would do something really bad if he found out it was you.” Said Twilight.

“You know they are going to find out eventually.” Discord said. “That is exactly what Spike said.” Says Twilight. “Knowing you, I assume you have already came up with some type of plan. Am I right?” Discord said.

“You are correct! And if you are wondering what that plan is: it's to avoid my family for the whole nine months!” Twilight said. “Twilight, that plan is chaotic. You can't just avoid your family for nine months, I mean what if they think that you went missing?”

Twilight giggled. “If I went missing, I am pretty sure they would have a pretty good idea of where I would be.”

Discord stroked his beard. “Mhm, fair point.”

“Now if you will excuse me, I have a book to read and I could use some peace and quiet.” Twilight said, pushing Discord out of the room.

Discord chuckles. “Okay, okay I get the hint when I'm not wanted. But if you need me, just call my name.”

Twilight nods her head, then shuts the door.

***

Twilight was simply fascinated by the book. She did not realize there was so many types of species that could make up a draconequus.

She looks over at the clock which reads 9:05 pm. She yawns, rubbing her eyes. Her stomach growls signaling that she and the baby we're hungry. However, she has tried to eat something all day, but apparently the baby said otherwise.

Twilight trots to the kitchen. “Well I've tried basic foods all day, and you didn't take a liking to it. Hmm?” Twilight scans her pantry until her eyes came across Pinkie Pie’s Strawberry Cinnamon Cilantro Cupcakes.

Twilight scrunched her muzzle. “Pinkie must have forgotten to take these with her yesterday afternoon.” Twilight stomach growls.

“Great now, my pantry is going to smell like Strawberry Cinnamon Cilantro.” Her horn lights up, pulling off one of the five disgusting cupcakes Pinkie Pie made. Okay I'm not doing that. If I'm not doing that then it must be the baby.

Twilight held the cupcake in her hoof. “You have got to be kidding me. Out of all the foods that I could actually be eating right now. You choose this?” Twilight complains.

Twilight peels the wrapping paper off, and takes a bit out of the cupcake. At first bite, it wasn't half bad, but once she swallowed it her facial expression turned to distaste.

Discord came through the kitchen yawing. “Twilight, what are you still doing up? I thought you'd be asleep by now.”

“Well, I thought so too, but instead I'm up at 11:30 pm, craving Strawberry Cinnamon Cilantro cupcakes.” Twilight said, taking a bite out of another one. “Why are you eating those distasteful cupcakes, anyways?” Discord wonders.

“Apparently, the baby loves them because I haven't thrown up yet.” Twilight said

“And how many of those have you ate so far?” Asks Discord.

“Four.” Answers Twilight.

“Well I will leave you and your weird cravings alone.” Discord said, walks out of the kitchen, but stops once Twilight calls his name.

“What is it Twilight?” Discord asks.

“Do you find it weird?” Twilight asks, getting up from her seat and throwing away the cupcake wraps. “Find what to be weird? I mean if you’re talking about the cupcakes then yes.” Discord wonders.

“No, I mean this! I mean we are having a child together and we’re not even married.” Twilight said. “Don't you find the situation a bit odd?”

Discord strokes his beard. “Not really. I mean a lot of couples have children and they are not even married.”

“True, but I don't think I would like our child to think that it was only lust, that's why we created him/her. It was out of pure love from both of us.” Twilight said.

“So what you are saying is that you would wish to be married now?” Discord poofs in a black box.

“What? No! At least not right now.” Twilight said. Discord poofs away the box. “I'm just saying and feel like we should be married by the time he/she gets here.” She states.

“If that's what you want, then that's what we'll do.” Discord said. Twilight smiles and walks over to Discord and gives him a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you for listening to me and respecting my opinion. I love you.”

“I love you too.” Discord mutters.

She walks into the hallway, shouting out “Goodnight.” Still sitting at the kitchen table, Discord hears the door shut before poofing the ring back into existence he pulls the ring out and gazes at it.

“And I can't wait for that day to come.” he mutters.

Author's Note

Tempest is also canon in my AU.

Kunzite is Spike and Ember's son.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6: A Sparkle Of Emotions

6 months later...

“So much for avoiding family…” Thought Twilight.

“....Happy Birthday to, you. Happy Birthday to, you. Happy Birthday, Flurry Heart. Happy Birthday to, you.” A chorus of ponies that Flurry Heart recognized were all gathered under one roof of the Canterlot castle.

Flurry decided to have her party this year at the castle in Canterlot. Last year when she had her party at The Crystal Empire, ponies that she did not even know showed up when all she really wanted where her family and friends there- well if she had any friends. It's not that she has anti-social, she was just choosing her friends wisely.

Some of the ponies at her school only wanted to be her friend because of her title. Others thought she was just stuck up and just another snot nosed filly. Everypony awaits around the crowded table. Twilight stands off in the corner watching the party. Flurry notices her aunt being a bit distance, she decided to go see what was wrong.

“Hey, Aunt Twilight. Are you okay?” Flurry asks. “Yeah, sweetie I'm fine! Just doing some thinking that's all.” Twilight said.

“Well, I'm glad you could make it to my birthday party!” Flurry said. Flashing her aunt a big toothy grin. She wraps her hoofs around her aunt's foreleg. Twilight ruffles her niece’s mane. “You know I wouldn't miss this for all of Equestria! You are my favorite niece after all.” Twilight winks at the filly.

“Aunt Twilight, I'm your only niece.” Giggles Flurry. “So, what are you doing over here instead of enjoying the rest of your party?” Twilight asks. “Besides coming to check on you. I was meaning to ask you a cutiemark question?” Flurry said, looking at her flank. She turned back to Twilight, looking with hopefully eyes.

“Will I ever get my cutie mark? I mean I know mommy said I was the first born Alicorn, but I have been waiting 3 years to get my cutie mark. I mean I'm seven now for Celestia's sake! And most ponies my age already have their cutie marks!” Flurry said.

Twilight ponders for a moment. “Well, this sounds more of a CMC question than a Princess question. However, it sounds like to me you will be a late bloomer. The CMC were actually in the same boat as you, Flurry at your age. They tried everything they could to get their cutie marks, until they found their special talent which was 5 years I might add.” Twilight said.

“5 years?!” Flurry was shocked. “I...I can't wait 5 years of being an Alicorn blank flank!” Flurry's bottom lip quivers slightly.“Relax sweetie! Not everyone has to wait that long for a cutie mark, I was just giving you a slight example.” Twilight said, giving her a small smile.

“Well I hope I do not have to wait that long.” giggles Flurry. “Well let's hope not,” giggles Twilight. “Thanks for the talk Aunt Twilight.” Beams Flurry. “Your welcome sweetie, anytime.” Said Twilight. She watches from afar as her niece runs off to join the others. “We are so glad you could make it Twilight.” Cadence said, giving her sister-in-law a hug.

“Flurry is really happy you came, Twilight.” Luna said. “Yes, that little filly has been grinning from ear to ear since you came.” Celestia said. “Well, I'm glad I could make her special day, even more perfect.” Said Twilight.

Luna giggles from beside Cadence. “Sister, remember when we were fillies? We were just as about as rambunctious as little Flurry Heart here. I remember for Tia’s seventh birthday, she got into the cake before our parents had the chance to sing 'Happy Birthday’.”

“And if I remember correctly I smashed cake into your face which got you all filthy.” Celestia taps a hoof to her chin. “ I think you had an important Royal event to go.”

Luna and Celestia giggles. “You know, I believe there is an ancient spell that can turn alicorns like us into fillies, but only for a certain amount of time. You girls wouldn't want to get in on the fun would you?” Cadence said. “It would be fun to be a filly, just for a day, right Tia.” Luna said. Celestia smiles thinking that it would be a wonderful idea. “Twilight would you-”

However, Celestia's face was quickly replaced with a look of concern. “Twilight? What's wrong?”

An overwhelming emotion took over Twilight's entire body. She felt tears run down her face. She didn't realize that her hormones were already acting up and in front of the Princesses. “I'm fine.” Twilight said, sniffing back a few tears. “You girls go ahead I'll be fine! I don't want to impose on you girls having a great time.” Twilight said, trying to put on a brave face.

“But Twilight we need you to do the spell.” Cadence said. “You know! I'm not the only one who is great at magic here! Maybe try getting Celestia for once in a lifetime chance to do something useful for once!” Twilight snaps.

Celestia looks aback by her friend. “Twilight Sparkle! Nopony speaks to my sister like that! What has gotten into you?!” Luna said, her voice firm. “No, Luna it's okay.” Celestia said, quietly before walking off.

“Hey Cadence, Princess Luna! How’s everything with- uh Twily is everything okay?” Shining said, walking over to the Princesses- well three out of four of them. Twilight groans out in agitation and frustration, her mane and tail blazing with fire. “I said I'm okay! Now would everypony get off my case!!!!” The only time when Twilight uses here Royal Canterlot voice was important events, but nothing like this.

Twilight hair singed of smoke. Her eye slightly twitching. “Ugh! I'm going to my room, do not follow me!” Twilight gallops full force to a nearby bedroom and slams the door.

The party goers stopped and stare at the commotion that just happened. Which put Cadence and Luna in an awkward situation. “Please continue to enjoy this wonderful party, I just have to go use the little filly's room.” Cadence says giving the party goers an awkward smile.

“Luna? Shining? Do you think you can keep the ponies here entertained until I get back?” Cadence asks. “Sure! Wait… when did we become party entertainers?” Shining asks. “Yeah, I never signed up for this- and she's gone.” Luna said. “Yep.” Mumbles Shining.

***

“This isn't the Twilight that I know and love. Something is definitely wrong here.” Cadence thought as she races down the hallway looking for Twilight. “I know she didn't mean all of those things she said.”

Cadence checks every room that is available in the castle. She finally found Twilight in a spare bedroom on the left wing. Cadence knocks on the door, before entering. “Twilight, are you okay?” Cadence asks.

“Why, does everypony keep asking that?” Twilight mumbles in a moody tone. “Well, it's because you aren't. Twilight I know this isn't you.” Cadence said sitting on her bed. Twilight down casts her gaze. “It's because I'm not.” Twilight mutters.

Cadence watches her sister-in-law, to see if her mood would shift anymore like it did a few moments ago.

It didn't.

“I'm your sister-in-law you can tell me anything Twilight.” Cadence said, giving Twilight a soft understand smile. Twilight bit the inside of her cheek, then sighs. “Okay, but you have to promise me you won't tell Shining!” Says Twilight, who had a serious expression on her face.

“Cross my heart. Hope to fly. Stick a cupcake in my eye.” Cadence chants. “Now can you tell me why you are acting like this?” Says Cadence. “I'm pregnant.” Twilight says. “I knew it.” Cadence says. “What! How?” Asks Twilight. “Well I was in the same boat as you are now in Twilight, before I had Flurry I was moody 24/7. I took out my hormones on practically everypony especially Shining.” Twilight thought back to when she took out her emotions. “I just took mine on Princess Celestia.” thoughtTwilight.

“This is the best day, ever!” Squeals Flurry. The mares look at the little filly startled by her voice. “Not only have a turned seven, but I got my cutie mark and I get a new baby cousin!” Flurry hops up and down.

“F-Flurry! H-How much did you hear sweetie?” Twilight said startled.

“Only that I'm getting a new cousin!” Says Flurry, who was still excited by the news.

“Shh! You need to lower your voice a bit! Aunt Twilight doesn't want anypony else to know.” Cadence says.

“But why?” Flurry stopped bouncing.

“She just doesn't. Can you promise something to your Aunt Twily and I?” Cadence asks.

“Sure mommy!” Says Flurry.

“Can you keep this a secret?” Cadence asks her daughter in a soothing tone.

Flurry nodded. “Sure I can! I'm the best secret keeper ever!” Says Flurry.

“Especially do not tell your daddy.” Said Twilight.

Shining walks in. “Do not tell Daddy what, exactly?” Shining looks at Flurry. Cadence and Twilight both looked at each other with a nervous expression on their faces.

“About the anniversary gift that mommy has planned for you on Saturday!” Says Flurry.

“Yeah! I have some big plans for us that day. Flurry kind of overheard us. So I guess the secret is out.” Cadence said. She was trying her best to keep a calm exposure. The nerves settled down in both their stomach.

“Hey, how come you're not out there helping Luna with the party?” Twilight asks, changing the subject. “Well, everypony went home. However, Luna left hours ago. Something about she wasn't paid enough for this.” Said Shining.

“Can Aunt Twily spend the night, tonight?” Flurry asked. “Flurry you know you have school tomorrow.” Shining said. “Yeah, besides I'm sure Twilight has a lot to do back at her castle.” Cadence said. “Come on, tell Twilight goodnight. I'll tuck you in, tonight.” Shining said.

A sad expression passed over her. “Night, Twilight.” Twilight gave her niece a hug. “Goodnight sweetie.” Twilight said.

She watched as the filly trots down the hall, as she waits for Shining to leave out of earshot before speaking again. “I can't believe I snapped at Celestia like that.” Twilight said. “It wasn't your fault. It was your hormones that was making you at like that.” Cadence said. “She doesn't know that I'm pregnant though.” Twilight said.

“If you explain to her I'm sure she will understand, she's an understanding mare after all. You know that.” Cadence said, smiling at her. “I guess you are right,” Mumbles Twilight. “But it's late so I doubt she is up at this moment.”

Cadence wraps a conforming wing around Twilight. The two sat there, enjoying the silence together.

***

“Okay missy, I know you were listening in on Aunt Twilight and mommy's conversation.” Shining said. “So can you tell Daddy what was being said?”

Flurry looks at her father, with slightly tired eyes. “Daddy, I promised Aunt Twilight and Mommy I would keep it a secret. And you can't break a pinkie promise.” Flurry said yawning.

“If you tell Daddy, I'll buy you that big stuffed animal you spotted at the toy store last month.” Shining said.

Flurry looks at her father with a curious gaze. “I'm still not telling.”

“I'll let you eat dessert for dinner and we don't even have to tell Mommy.” Shining said, grinning at his daughter.

Flurry thought for a moment. “... Nope. Besides, I already do that anyways.” Flurry giggles.

Shining’s wide smile faulted. “But I thought you were daddy's little girl?” Shining asks, in a small sad tone. “I am, but I can't betray mommy or Aunt Twilight's trust daddy, you both taught me that.” Flurry said.

“Shoot we did.” Thought Shining. “Plus, nice try, but briefing isn't going to work on me daddy. Now I'm sorry, but I'm going to bed. Goodnight. I love you.” Flurry turns over in her bed, away from Shining.

“Goodnight. I love you too.” Shining whispers. Walking out of Flurry's room and into the hallway. “Fine! If my own daughter won't tell me. Then, I'll just get my information some other way.” A sly smile plays into the stallion's lips, before turning in for the night.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7: A Spy Among Us

A knock came from the door of The Castle Of Friendship. It was ten in the morning, who could be at her castle at ten in the morning? And on a Monday? Yawning and looking a hot mess, Twilight got out of bed and wrapped herself around in her housecoat.

Making her way to the door, the knocking continue.

“I'm coming, I'm coming.” Twilight said, in between yawns. “Sweet, Celestia no pony has time for this.” She mutters to herself. Once she reaches the door, she opens it with her aura. “I hope you have a very good rea-” Twilight stopped, looking at the pony before her with wide eyes. “Sh-Shining Armor! What are you doing here?” Twilight asks.

She could feel her whole body going tense.

“Well, I've been worrying about you here recently. And from the looks of it, you look like a hot mess.” Shining says. “Well, excuse me if you didn't give me enough time to freshen up before a greeting- especially this early.” Twilight grits her teeth.

Shining chuckles. “Woah, Twily! I was just kidding. You know I still love you no matter what you look like.” Twilight rolls her eyes playfully at her brother. Shining enters, shuts the door behind him. “I actually already have a room set aside for you. But why could you have not waited til this weekend to come?” Twilight wonders.

Both of them started to walk down the hallway of her castle. “Well, I missed my little sister so much I just had to come and see her. Plus, Cadence and Flurry is having some kind of girls weekend. But turns out it's for an entire week. So I thought, why not come and visit my sweet little sister.”Shining said. Hoping that she wouldn't ask for the real reason why he was here.

“Okay…” Twilight said, suspensions laced in her voice. But she thought otherwise. “What kind of girls week where they having exactly?” Twilight wondered. “Ah. You know: going to the spa, girly stuff.” Shining said.

Twilight raised an eyebrow before continuing. “Alright then,” Twilight said. Both of them stopped at one of the many spare bedrooms in her castle. “Well, here's your room. It already has everything you need.” Twilight pushes open the door to reveal Shining's guest bedroom. It was designed the way he liked it. “Awe sis you know your B.B.B.F.F so well.” He gives Twilight a hug before entering his room.

“Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go check on something important.” Twilight said, in a flash of magenta light she disappears.

***

She teleported herself into a spare bedroom. “Discord?” Twilight calls out.

No answer.

“Discord!” Twilight hisses.

Still no answer.

Twilight thinks for a moment. She casts a Bubble of Silence spell on the entire room. “Discord!” This time Twilight uses her Royal Canterlot voice. A bright flash of light appears in front of her. “You know if you ever needed me, you didn't have to use your Royal Canterlot voice.” Discord said.

He stops, quickly notices the alicorn's expression was rather bothersome. “Twilight? What's wrong?” He asks. “And why are you in a housecoat?” He took in that her appearance is more frazzled as usual. “Besides that I'm trying to hide the fact that I'm pregnant. I also have a unwanted visitor.” Twilight paces around the room feeling antsy.

“Who's the unwanted visitor? Do you need me to obliterate them? ” Asked Discord.

“What! No!Its my brother. And he can not see you,” Twilight said. “Think you could disguise yourself?”

“And why would I need to do that exactly?” Discord wonders.

“Do you wish to be six feet under the ground?” Sarcasm laced in Twilight's voice.

“Why do I sense that your brother is not a fan of me?” Discord asks.

“Because he isn't. Ever since you sided with Tirek, even though it was six years ago. He still hasn't forgiven you.” Twilight said. “Wow! Your brother can hold a grudge for a really long time. But, can't he see that I'm a changed draconequus?” Says Discord.

“Obviously not.” Mutters Twilight. “So do you think you can hold up a disguise? At least till the end of this Friday?” Pleads Twilight. “I can try.” Discord mutters. The draconequus snaps his claw and disguising himself as Owlicious.

Twilight lets out a relieved sigh. She let's down the barrier.

There was a knock on the door. “Hey, Twilight? Are you okay? You were in here awhile. So I thought I'd come check on you.” Shining asks, entering the room. “Yeah, I'm fine just had to come check on Owlicious.” Twilight said. She lets the bird land on her hoof.

Shining looks at Owlicious and smiles, ruffling the birds feathers. “Are you sure you're okay? You look pale a bit.” Shining worried for his sister. “I'm fine, really. I haven't really had a proper breakfast since you arrived.” Twilight let out a nervous laugh.

“How about this, I'll fix your breakfast for you and you can go read one of your favorite book?” Shining suggested. “Well it has been a while since I've actually got to relax with a good book,” thought Twilight. “Okay, deal.” Twilight said, she sat Owlicious down on his perch.

“Think you could make some of Pinkie Pie Cinnamon Cilantro cupcakes?” Twilight asks. Shining gave his sister a confusing look. “Cinnamon Cilantro Cupcakes? Twilight, those sound disgusting. Why would you even want those?” Shining said. Twilight's mind races for a moment, she lets out a nervous laugh. “You know what scratch that, you can just make me pancakes instead. With whip cream and sprinkles on top, drizzled in chocolate syrup.”

Shining nods his head. “Okay…. Well if you need me I'll be in the kitchen.” Shining walks off. Twilight watches as her brother is out of earshot, before speaking to “Owlicious”. “Thank you, Discord. Now please promise me that you will stay hidden from Shining.” Twilight whispers to the bird.

“You have my word, Princess.” Said Discord. Twilight gave a soft smile, hoping that he keeps he keeps his word. Twilight walks out of the room.

“I just hope I can keep my word,” thought Discord.

****

Twilight looked to her bedside table. The book that Discord let her borrow was still marked were she last left off at. The book remained untouched in the last few months, however.

She grabs the book and flips to the page she left off of which was: Facts About What Different Magic Your Draconequus Child Could Possess.

“This is a really interesting section,” Twilight mutters to herself. She scans the page for a mere twenty-five minutes. “Sweet Celestia! Where is Shinning with those pancakes!” Twilight mutters to herself, she flips to her fifth page.

Another fifteen minutes passed.

“Hey, Twily! Sorry it took so long,” Shining said, floating a tray full of pancakes towards her. On the tray was also a glass of milk and a small bouquet of white lilacs that sat in a light blue vase on the tray.

Twilight took the tray from Shining in her aura, sitting the tray in front of her. She gazes down at the plate, her face turning slightly green. She swallows down the awful sickness that she felt, letting the feeling by pass. “Thank you, Shining.” Twilight said, forcing a smile. “Your welcome, but are you sure you are okay?” He asks.

Twilight sneezed and electricity shot from her horn. Shining ducks, he rose slowly up.
“Where did that come from?” Shining asks. “I guess I have a Spring Fever, cold wise of course. If I was you I would leave this room while I still had the chance.” Twilight said, she try to push him out of the room with her aura.

Sadly, he wouldn’t budge.

“Have you been to the doct-” Twilight cut off his response. “Yes, Shining I have and they said it was very contagious.” Lies Twilight.

“How long have you had it?” Asked Shining. “For almost two weeks,” Lies Twilight, again. “But I have medicine for it. So hopefully by tomorrow I would feel at least a little bit better.”

“This is why your BBBFF is here for you Twily. But if you need me, just holler, or in your case use your Royal Canterlot voice.” Shining chuckles. “Anyways for now, just rest.” He orders.

“But what about-” Her brother cuts her off. “Whatever needs to be taken care of I'll handle it for you.” Shining gave his Royal Guards honor to help his sister with whatever she needed for the day. “I just don't want you to push yourself, more than you already have. Besides, you look like you could use the rest.” He gave a small smile. “Promise me you'll rest for the day?”

Twilight nods. “If you need me, you know where I'll be.” Shining said. He then shuts her bedroom door and walks off. Once she knew Shining was out of earshot. She puts the plate aside and picks back up the book, reading where she left off at.

She zap herself a platter of Pinkie's signature cupcakes. Reminding herself to pay Pinkie later for the tray. After her eighth cupcake, Twilight felt herself feeling a bit drowsy. She was half way through the chapter: How To Raise A Draconequus In His/Her Teenage Years.

Twilight yawns, she felt more tired than usual, which was in a way a bit odd for her. She knew she got at least a full eight hours of sleep last night. But why did she feel so drained?

“Maybe Shining is right,” She yawns. “I could rest…. I'm just going to take a quick… nap….” She mutters the last bit to herself, before luring herself into a deep slumber.

***

“Twilight, hasn't been back to check on me since this morning. I hope she is okay.” Discord thought. “Plus, I may need a real meal. This bird food-er owl food? Whatever it is isn't cutting it for my taste.”

'Owlicious’ flies into the kitchen. “I'm sure, Twilight wouldn't mind if I returned to normal for a little bit, besides it's late I'm sure nopony is bound to be awake at this hour.” Discord's snaps his claw and returns into his regular form. He opens Twilight's cabinet drawers, only to find it filled with bizarre cravings.

He shuts the cabinet's. Turning around, he spotted a white stallion his mane colors was a modern sapphire blue mane with moderate cerulean and dark phthalo blue streaks. The stallion stood halfway down the hallway, his mouth a gaped.

It was Shining Armor.

“Oh, shi-” Discord thought, but got cut off by Shining. “What do you think you are doing here, Discord.” He spat the draconequus name out of distaste.

Once the draconequus did not answer. Shining, who was now in the kitchen went on to asking him more questions. “Why are you even here in my baby sister’s castle?”

“If you must know, Twilight asked me to stay here.” The draconequus states.

“And why would she? She despises you.” Shining had his blue eyes narrowed.

“You know, that is where you are wrong.” A mischievous smile plays on the draconequus lips.

“And what's that supposed to mean?” Shining asks, his horn was already lit ready to charge at this foul creature.

***

Five hours later…

Twilight tossed and turned in her sleep. A loud crash awakens the young Alicorn from her deep slumber. She looks over at her alarm it reads: 4:14 am. “Can't believe I slept an entire day away,” Twilight thought.

Another crash and a beam of light rose magic sounds from the kitchen, along with a lot of shouting. “Shining? Discord!” Twilight thought. Twilight shot out of bed, forgetting her housecoat in the process. She gallops quickly down the hallway, hearing the argument getting louder, as she gets closer.

Twilight quickly reaches the kitchen. Broken plates scatters the floor, food covering and staining the walls and floor, even Shining and Discord. Discord's chaotic magic was running wild throughout Twilight’s kitchen. While Shining Armor looked at the draconequus with distasteful look in his blue eyes.

Basically, her kitchen looked like a tornado hit it.

Twilight eye twitched slightly. “What is going on!” Twilight shouts.

“Twilight! What are you doing up out of bed?” Shining asks, his voice full of authority. “My question for you two is why are you two fighting!” Twilight shot back.

“Did he put you under a spell?” Shining asks. “Wh- no! Now answer my question!” Twilight said in a very demanding voice. “How could you fall in love with somepony like him?” Shining asks, narrowing his eyes.

Twilight scoffs. “Like your the one to talk. You fell in love with a changeling.”

“That was different! And you know it. Do you know what he has done to you and your friends? Do you know all the horrible things his has done to Equestria in the past?”

“Unlike you, I can look past somepony who has done wrong.” Twilight said, her tone bitter. “You can't stop me from who I fall in love with Shining!”

Twilight narrowed her eyes at her brother. Shining looks at Twilight noticing that something is different about her. “Wait are you?” Twilight keeps narrowed eyes at the two. “When I find out who-” Shining threatens. “Oh, Twilight didn't tell you?” Discord says in an innocent like tone.

“Discord! Can it!” Twilight snaps.

“So, that's why you've been acting strange here lately! And you're the father?” Shining asks, his eyes slightly ablaze. “You are correct.” Discord said. “Oh, you are dead meat, buddy!” Shining charges at Discord.

Twilight felt her hormones kick into overdrive. Her mane was ablaze, she wasn't just mad. She was pissed! “Stop! I can't believe you two are acting like this! Shining Armor, you are my brother you couldn't have at least been a little bit excited for me? No! You had to go on your high horse thinking you never done no wrong! I would never disowned Flurry Heart! Yet, you have the audacity to put me down for my wrongdoings! This being one of them!”

Twilight's mane and tail was still blazing. “You could have told me, Twi-” Shining stated but Twilight quickly cuts him off. “No, I couldn't have! Because I knew you would act…. Like… like this!”

“You're right, Twilight I would act like this! But I'm only trying to protect you-” Shining said. “Looks, like to me you're more of judging me than protecting me! News flash: I'm not a filly anymore I can take care of myself!” Spats Twilight, hot tears spills down Twilight cheeks. “Were you really here or was it something entirely different?” Twilight asks, her mane and tail toned down a bit, but hot tears were still in her eyes.

“Well since the room is still full of tension. Might as well tell you the truth. I came to see why you were acting funny, but now I see the answer crystal clear. ” He looks at Twilight’s stomach. Twilight rolls her eyes. “So, you lied to me!” Twilight seethes.

Shining Armor remained quite.

“Everypony's been supportive, except you! You're such a hypocrite!” Twilight screams out in frustration. “I wish you were never my brother! I wish Celestia would send you to Tartarus!” She gallops off, in a hurry slamming her bedroom door with a loud bang.

Rays of early morning sunshine streams through Twilight's curtain. She didn’t care that Celestia was already raising the sun. Instead, Twilight slides her back down against the door. Letting out a whale of frustration and cries.

“I'm sure this week will get better and better…. Not!” Twilight thought, as her sarcastic tone was thought to herself, before she tries to curl herself up in fetal position on the floor her lullaby to herself was accompanying by soft cries.

Before drifting off to sleep once more.

Chapter 8

Chapter 8:A Welcoming Visitor

Thursday

Since Monday night, everypony was giving each other the silent treatment. Two days. Two days and nopony decides to apologize.

Discord and Shining decided to keep their distance from each other. As for Twilight, she remains stuck in her room.

There was a knock on Twilight's bedroom door. “Twilight? Are you okay?” Tempest calls out. She wipes away her tear streaked face with her hooves. “Yeah, I'm fine.” Twilight calls out. Tempest opens the door to her bedroom, a look of hurt and sorrow displayed on her face.

“I heard what happened last night,” Tempest said, standing in Twilight's doorway. “I can't believe Shining said that to you.”

“Yeah? Well I can't believe what I said to Shining. I mean we never had a single fight when we were kids, sure we had a few disagreements here and there, but nothing like this.” Twilight sighed, her eyes downcast onto the ground.

“If you ask me Shining Armor has a right to be upset with you. I mean you keep this from him for almost six months.” Tempest said.

“Whose side are you on?” Twilight asked.

“N-no one's,” Tempest said. “It’s just.. don't you think he deserved to know sooner?” She asks Twilight in a gentle tone.

“Yeah, but he would have still flipped out.” Mutters Twilight.

Tempest sighs. “Maybe if you would have told him sooner, it wouldn't have lead you to where you are now.”

Twilight thought for a moment. “Maybe you're right.”

Twilight got up from the bed and made her way to the door. “Where are you going?” Questions Tempest.

“I'm going to find Shining.” Twilight said.

***

“Shining?” Twilight knocks on the guest bedroom door.

No answer.

“Look, I know your mad at me. I didn't mean to say what I did. You are my rock when I need you. I know I should have told you sooner, but I was so scared of what you might think. Maybe if I told you sooner, it wouldn't have lead to all of this. I just want to say that I'm sorry and I hope that you could find it in your heart to forgive me.”

Twilight waits for a moment, still no answer. “Okay, something is off.” Thought Twilight.

She opens the door to Shining Armor’s room. Sadly he wasn't in there. Twilight scans the room. “He must have left last night,” Mutters Twilight. She looks on the nightstand and sees a note stuck under a half full glass of water.

She removed the glass of water and picks up the paper.

Twily,

I went back to Canterlot. I'll be back Friday. Just have a lot on my mind right now.

Xoxo,

Shining Armor

“Great, I didn't even get the chance to apologize and he is already gone,” Twilight mutters. She looks down at the note once more before crumbling up and tossing it into the nearby trash can.

With her ears down folded. A sadden expression etched onto her face as she exits the room, shutting the door behind her.

“Hey, Twilight?” Twilight quickly unfolds her ears and wipes away the tears that threatens to fall.

It was Tempest, who was calling her.

“I'm in here, Tempest.” Calls Twilight from the hallway.

“Good! I found you.” Tempest says breathing a sigh of relief.

“What seems to be the problem?” Questions Twilight.

“Starlight did another one of those complex spells, that she seems to have trouble always undoing.” Says Tempest.

Twilight groans. “I've told that mare time and time again that magic is never the answer to solving your problems. Seems like to me she will never learn that,” Twilight mutters the last bit to herself.

“Okay, where is she?” She asks in a drained voice.

“She's in the library, at least that's where the last place it was where I left her.” Tempest says.

Twilight, accompanied by Tempest, both walk down the long hallway. A sharp needle like pain pierced through Twilight. She stops, wincing in pain. Tempest notices and stops suddenly.

“Your highness, are you okay?” Asks Tempest in a worry tone.

Once the pain subsided, Twilight shook it off. “Yeah, Tempest I'm fine. Now let's go find Starlight so I can reverse whatever spell she did this time.”

Twilight continue to walk on, but her guard keep a close eye on her from behind.

***

Using her aura she opens the double doors, Twilight spoke into the darkness. “Starlight you better not be-”

The lights to the library snap on.

“Surprise!” Everypony shouts.

“I thought, you said Starlight was using dangerous magic, Tempest? What's all of this.” Twilight asks.

Tempest looks at her friend. “Hey, if you ask me it was all Pinkie's idea. I only take orders from you other than the Welders of The Elements of Harmony of course.” Tempest said.

“It's your baby shower, duh!” Pinkie Pie, says in a sing song like voice.

Anypony who was everypony was here: the Princesses’, her friends, Ember, Spike, Thorax, and others. The library was jammed pack, but yet spacious enough to move around in.

“But how did you know what I was having?” Twilight questions her pink friend.

“Uh, Pinkie Sense?” Pinkie then took off, a puff a pink smoke evaporates into thin air.

Twilight giggles at her friend bizarre weirdness. She will have to remind herself to ask Pinkie later how she really figured it out.

“Hey Twilight! Congratulations!” A familiar voice calls out. Twilight turns around to be greeted by an old friend.

Sunset Shimmer.

“Sunset! You came!” Twilight said, in a surprised voice.

Sunset giggles. “Of course I did.” She gave Twilight a hug.

A hoof taps Twilight on the back, interrupting the hug between Sunset and Twilight. Twilight took a step back, spinning around Twilight came face to face with Princess Celestia.

Since what happened last month, Twilight could not bring herself to apologize to her former mentor and friend. Twilight gazes to the ground in shame, knowing that she hurt the pony she looked up to the most crushed her spirit.

Celestia looked at Twilight for a moment, before a gentle expression settled on her face. She placed her hoof under Twilight's chin, looking at her with calmness and understanding in her eyes.

“Twilight-” the Princess started.

“Princess Celestia, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to-” Twilight said, tears prick at the corner of her eyes.

Celestia gave her a gentle smile. “Twilight, I have already forgiven you.” She gives Twilight a hug. Twilight embraces her former mentor and friend's warm embrace. Twilight took a step back, she stayed silent for a moment.

“Congratulations by the way,” She says, in a calming tone. “But you know, you could have told me that you was pregnant. I would have understand.”

“How did you-” Twilight wonders, gazing at Celestia.

“Know? Well, let's just say a little bird told me.” Celestia muses.

“Let me guess, that little birdie wouldn't happen to be Flurry Heart would it?” Twilight let out a soft laughter.

“Yeah,” Celestia replies, with a soft giggle.

“That little filly was great at keeping it a secret for a little while.” Said Twilight.

“Hey, you told me not to tell Daddy, but I had to tell somepony.” Flurry says, walking over to the group.

“You must be Flurry Heart, Twilight's niece.” Sunset said, looking at the the young Alicorn. “She has told me so much about you.”

“That I am, but she has told me nothing about you. Who are you, exactly?” Flurry says, her voice sweet and innocent.

“Flurry Heart!” Scolded Twilight. “Mind your manner.”

Sunset looks at the young Alicorn a gasped.”No Twilight, it's okay.” Soothes Sunset, looking at Twilight.

She turns her attention back to Flurry Heart. “Well if you must know, I'm Sunset Shimmer. Your aunt was the one who help me become the pony I am today.” Sunset smiles down at the little filly.

“Oh, well it's nice to meet you Miss. Shimmer.” Flurry gives a toothy smile. “Sorry about the rude encounterment.” Apologizes Flurry.

“It's okay, sweetie. Trust me I was getting dirty looks the past two years where I come from. Well three and a half if you count what happened the last time I was there.” Sunset said.

“Where are you from, exactly?” Flurry wonders.

“Well I'm actually from the other wor-” Sunset stated, but Twilight quickly stops her.

“She's from Manehatten!” Twilight interrupts.

Flurry and Sunset both gave Twilight a confusing glance. “Uh, Flurry could you excuse Miss.Shimmer and I for just a moment? I need to show her where the gift table is.” Excuses Twilight.

“But I didn't bring you anything, Twili-” Sunset states.

“Pfft, of course you did. Now come on, I'll show you.” Twilight said, dragging Sunset away from the filly.

Sunset and Twilight walk towards the gift table.

“Twilight, why did you just tell your niece that was from the other world?” Sunset questions.

“I would have, but Flurry is really to young to understand. Plus she's a rather curious filly. I mean what if she decides to cross over to the other world.” Said Twilight.

“I highly doubt that would happen Twilight.” Sunset said.

“But it could! You just never know, Sunset.” Said Twilight.

Sunset giggles. “Okay, okay. You have a fair point.” Sunset eyes the amount of presents on the table.

“Whoa! You definitely have a lot of gifts to open.” Sunset gawks at the amount of presents that were displayed before them.

“I try to think that those gifts are for the baby and not for me, but hey I'm the mother so technically half of those gifts might as well be mine.” Twilight says, eyeing the amount of presents.

Both of them burst into a fit of laughter.

“Hey, Twilight.” A voice called from behind.

Twilight body went tense, before relaxing. Sunset looked at Twilight, before looking behind her and realizing why so looked so on edge.

“Uh, I'll leave you two alone.” Sunset said. Before leaving, she whispers into the alicorns ear. “If you need me. You know where to find me.” She trots in the other direction.

Twilight took a calming breath before turning around to find the face of her dear beloved brother.

Twilight was about to open her mouth to speak, but Shining Armor spoke up. Twilight remains quiet hearing out what the stallion had to say.

“I forgive you Twily.” He wraps his hooves around his sister’s neck.

Twilight quickly pushes back, her eyebrows knitted in confusion. “I realize that instead of fighting with you. I should have heard you out. It was unfair of me to lash out on you like that, and I'm sorry. I guess I still have a smidge of that big brother protectiveness role that I feel like I still need to play in your life, even if you are all grown up. I will always see you as my baby sister.” Shining gave Twilight a soft smile.

Tears lined the corners of Twilight's eyes. “Oh Shiny your my BBBFF that will never change. Sure we both said things that we didn't mean, but that doesn't mean we stopped caring for each other.” Said Twilight, her tone soft and caring.

“Also the things that I said to you about Discord, I will try and get along with him for you and the baby's sake.” Shining said.

Twilight broke into a grin. “Sure Discord is annoying in his own chaotic way, but you'll learn to like him in the long run. Trust me, I learned it the hard way.” Twilight giggles to herself.

A sharp pain pierced through Twilight. She winces once more in pain. “Twilight? Are you okay?” Shining asked, concerned for his sister.

“I'm fine Shining really.” Twilight said, her tone remaining calm.

Shining looks at his sister with concern. “Besides,” Twilight said, hoping to change the subject. “You ruined my chances at apologizing first.” She giggles.

“Actually no I didn't.” Shining flashed her a grin.

“Yes you- wait what?” Twilight questions her brother’s slight confusing grin.

“Yes you did, you just didn't notice.” Shining still had the same goofy smile. Twilight was still confused, but Shining continues. “I was coming in from guard duty-”

“Where you really on guard duty?” Twilight asks, a smug smile played on her lips.

“Yea- no,” Shining hung his head in defeat. “Well I was there for maybe for five minutes, but only to find out that patrolling was short for the coming weekend. So I just happen to walk into the room, so I decided to stop in and listen in on the conversation.”

He chuckled to himself. “You had a conversation with a door.”

Twilight turned crimson red with embarrassment. “Well at least my apology was sincere.” She taunted.

“Well mine was too.” Shining taunted back. He then chuckled back, ruffling Twilight's mane, playful.

Twilight giggled back, wrapping her hooves once more around her brother's neck.

She was thankful that her and her brother where once again close. She hated arguing with him and leaving it on bad terms.

“Come on. I think there maybe a few gifts with your name on it.” Shining said, his voice rather playful and teasing.

Twilight giggles. “A few?”

Shining levitated a few of the gifts. “I'll help you take some of these gifts to the front of the room.”

“Um about that, I don't think I want to teleport half of the gifts to possibility of them ending up in Saddle Arabia. My magic is still a bit unstable.” Said Twilight.

“Oh right, I forgot about that.” Shining said, lowing the gifts. “Let me go get Cadence and Flurry to help you.”

Shining went off to find his wife and daughter.

Twilight made her way to the couch. Everypony crowds around her, as Shining, Cadence and Flurry brings the gifts displaying them at Twilight's hooves.

Twilight gave the small family of three a warm smile, silently thanking them.

Twilight grabs the first gift that caught her eye. It was red bag, tied with a white ribbon and stuffed with checkerboard like paper.

The tag was signed: Applejack. Twilight removed the paper to reveal a soft-cotton made quilt. The design had all of their cutie marks stitched onto it.

“Applejack, this is beautiful.” Twilight said, looking at the embroidery.

Applejack tips her hat, but smiles at her friend. “Ah shucks, Sugar cube. I can't take all the credit. Rarity actually helped me with it. So I guess you could say it's from the both of us.” Applejack said.

“Well thank you, both of you.” Twilight smiles.

“You're welcome, darling.” Rarity says.

“Think you could open mine next Twilight? You going to love what I got the little-” Rainbow interject, but somepony cuts her off.

“Ooh! Me next!” Pinkie beams.

Twilight giggles at her quirky friend, scouting out Pinkie Pie’s gift. It was in another bag, but this bag had confetti on it.

She sniffs the air, then the bag, getting a slight whiff of Chocolate.

She pulls out a small stuffed brown bear, it smelled strongly of Chocolate and a hint of bubble gum. Once Twilight didn't answer, Pinkie gave her the answer she was looking for.

“It's a scented teddy bear, Twilight.” Pinkie says, beaming proudly at her gift.

“Well thank you, Pinkie.” Twilight said, sitting the small bear down.

Twilight moved onto Rainbow's gift. The box was wrapped in a cyan blue wrapping paper, once Twilight levitated it, whatever was inside was extremely light.

Twilight tears open the wrapping paper, to reveal a box. Twilight opens the box only to reveal that nothing was inside. “What the hay Rainbow?” Twilight looked at the cyan blue pegasus with a confused expression.

“Hold your horses, your highness.” Rainbow said, she holds a mobile device on her hooves. “Bam! A Cloudsdale mobile.”

“So you gave me a empty box, only to have the gift already available and fixed. When I could have just fixed it myself.” Twilight said.

“I was saving you time.” Rainbow says.

Twilight giggles. “Well nevertheless, thank you, Rainbow Dash.”

5 hours later

After five additional hours of going through gifts, Twilight looks at the array of gifts from pacifiers, bibs, sleepers, diapers, and clothes. Which Rarity prays and hopes to Celestia that the the foal with pony-shaped.

Twilight decided to thank all of her guests at once instead of waiting in a long line to thank all of her guests, like she did a few years back with Celestia at the Grand Galloping Gala.

Twilight walks into the middle of the room, onto the tiny stage. She grabs a nearby crystal glass, clicking it with a spoon.

“If I may have everypony's attention please.” Twilight announces quieting the chattering crowd.

Everypony turns to hear the Princess of Friendship speech, whatever that speech may be.

“Thank you all for coming today for helping me celebrate my baby’s baby shower. This clearly shows how many ponies care for me and this little bundle of joy. We are so glad to see the all the support and overall love from everypony here.” Says Twilight.

Twilight stopped, standing emotionless. Her ears ring, and her body felt ridged and on edge. Something felt off and she knew something was off. She felt funny, like she wanted to pass out.

“Twilight, are you okay?” Rainbow Dash asks, concerned.

Twilight shook her head. “I think the baby is coming.” Twilight groaning in pain.

“I’ll go get Discord hang on, Twi.” Rainbow Dash said, speeding off.

Discord appearances into existence. “Twilight what's wrong? All I got out of Rainbow Dash was: Twilight, Discord, and Baby. I swear that mare was rapid talking, those were the only words I could get out of her.” He says.

“That's because the baby is coming.” Twilight said, through bearing teeth.

“I thought the baby wasn't due for another three months?!” Discord asks, panic laced in his voice.

“Apparently, the baby has other plans.” Twilight groans in pain.

Discord snaps his finger and the pair went off to the hospital.

“So… uh do we just walk there?” Fluttershy questions anypony who was listening to her.
“Well what are we waiting for? Let's go!” Rainbow Dash said, speeding off.

“Hold on, Dash wait for us!” Applejack called outs.

****

Twilight was already in the back once the others have came.

Now all they had to do was play the “Waiting Game”.

9 hours later

“Do you think she will be okay?” Discord asks in a worried tone.

“If I know one thing about Twilight I know that she is one strong mare.” Princess Celestia says in a calming tone. “She will be just fine.” Celestia smiles at the draconequus.

Twilight's ear piercing scream fills the room.

The others were startled by her scream “Twilight!” They said in unison.

Discord paled a bit. “Way to go, sister.” Mutters Princess Luna. “You just freaked him out more.”

“Hey, I was only trying to calm his nerves.” Celestia says, her tone slightly defense.

“Does anyone know what time it is?” Yawns a tired Flurry.

“Everypony is tired, and it's only 9 pm. And I've already raised the moon.” Luna said, in a rather calm voice.

“This “Waiting Game” is boring.” Moans Pinkie.

“Well hopefully it won't be long.” Cadence says, yawing.

“How can daddy sleep through Aunt Twilight's scream? Sounds like she was screaming bloody murder.” Flurry says, looking over at Shining who was asleep.

“Honey, your Dad could sleep through you crying your lungs out when you were three or even a meteor shower if one ever occurred and he would still be knocked out.” Cadence says in a deadpan, sarcasm leaked tone.

The door to the hospital swings open. “You ponies can come see her now.” Nurse Redheart says.

Cadence smacks Shining with her wing. Shining awakening out of sleep. “Ow! Did she have the baby yet?” Shining asks in a rather drowsy voice.

Cadence excited facial expression says it all. “Yes! Now come on! Let's go meet our new niece or nephew.”

Author's Note

Welcome the newest Prince or Princess of Equestria!

Chapter 9

Chapter 9:Baby Lullabies and Wedding Rings

The shimmering moon, that Luna raised streams through Twilight's window.

It was quite, just a few more hours until her family and friends get to see the new bundle of joy. Twilight smiles down at the ball of fluff.

“You are quite beautiful, my little one.” Beads of sweat, dripped down Twilight's face.

From two pm to almost eleven pm, Twilight spent the last ten hours awake and given life. She felt drain, but it was worth it.

Twilight let out a soft sigh of relief, enjoying the silence while it lasted. “I know you will make a great ruler one day.” She whispers to the little fluff ball. She kisses the top of it's head. The baby let out a soft whimpering sound, but Twilight let out a soft laugh and held the little fur ball close.

The only sound so far was the soft ticking of the clock, and the machines softly beeping.

There was a light knock on the door, but Twilight judged by the knocking of the sound that it was Fluttershy.

“You girls can come in.” Twilight said, her tone of voice sounds soft and light.

The door creaks a little to reveal not only the girls, but as well as the princesses, her brother, Spike and Discord. Her mom and dad wasn't there due to a trip they have taken to Las Pegasus, but they promised to swing by soon to see the little one. They oddly took the news surprisingly well when Twilight told them.

“So is it a colt or filly?” Discord wonders.

“It's a filly.” Beams Twilight.

Twilight lowers the blanket that was tucked around the baby, revealing a white mane mixed with a few strands of black. Her mane reveals three streaks one of purple, one of magenta and the last streak being black. Her fur was light grey, mixed with purple. Her eyes remained close however.

“She's so precious!” Cooes Cadence.

“So, she is practically Discord made over?” Rainbow Dash says, not wanting to beat around the bush.

“Hey! I happen to be very charming.” Discord says, giving Rainbow a smug, but charming smile.

The others giggled, while Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes.

“Looks like your ‘hunch’ was correct after all Pinkie Pie, but I'm curious how did you know I was having a girl? And don't blame it on Pinkie Sense this time.” Twilight said, her voice slightly amusing.

“Oh, Discord called the hospital and the doctor told him what the gend-” Pinkie Pie mouth was zipped.

“What?” Twilight's tone darkened a bit.

“Discord remind me later on to try not to kill you.” Twilight said, in a fake sweet tone.

Everypony was dead silent, for a moment before Celestia broke the tension in the room.

“So what do you plan on naming the little dear? Or are we going to spend the whole hospital visit calling her names like “sweetie pie, darling or worse the baby?” Asks Celestia.

Cadence giggles. “Isn’t that what your mom said to us when Flurry was born?” She asks Shining.

Shining chuckles. “Yeah, exactly what mom said.”

“Wait you were gonna name me 'The Baby’?” Flurry Heart asks.

“Well sweetie they eventually came up with your name.” Twilight said, giggling.

Pinkie unzips her mouth. “Yeah! Besides you caused a big snow storm and put everypony in danger, because you broke the crystal heart from the Crystal Empire. But nopony remembers that.” Pinkie Pie says, grinning.

“Uh, Pinkie I think everypony remembers that.” Applejack states.

“But, your name is perfect the way it is, sweetie.” Shining said, ruffling his daughter’s mane.

“We were thinking of naming her Harmonia.” Twilight said, looking down at her daughter.

“Well the name is perfect for the little one.” Luna said, smiling at Twilight.

“Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday, to you! Happy birthday, Harmon-” Pinkie Pie sings, a bit to loudly.

A choir of “Shh!”

“So Twilight? Does that make me a uncle?” Spike asks.

Before Twilight could interject. Rarity interrupts.

“And does that make us her aunt's, darling? Well I mean besides Cadence being her biological aunt.” Says Rarity.

Twilight muses, thinking for a moment. “Well you will all be a important part in Harmonia’s life. So you all are related to me in some form or way so to put it simple: yes.”

“Can I hold Harmonia, Aunt Twilight?” Asks Flurry.

“You a bit too small right now Flurry, to hold her. However, you can come over here and see her.” Says Twilight.

Flurry walks over to Twilight's bedside, she could barely see her over Twilight's bed to look at her new baby cousin. Flurry uses her wings and hovering over Twilight and Harmonia.

“She's so tiny.” Flurry Heart says, smiling down at her baby cousin. “Hi! I'm your cousin Flurry Heart.”

Flurry lowers herself to the ground, looking at the tiny draconequus, she whispers to her. “And I promise to always love you.” She blows a tiny kiss to the little infant.

“Well, we better get going. We've been here all night, and from the looks of it Luna is already out for the day. And Celestia has already raised the Sun.” Cadence said, yawing.

Everypony has been here all night with Twilight, it just goes to show how much of a supportive and caring group of friends and family that she has.

It was 7:35 a.m. with the sun already rising. Everypony was tired, but excited that they could share this moment with Twilight.

“Get some rest, Twilight. We will see you later.” Applejack says.

“Yeah, you guys could use the rest. Especially, you Twilight.” Fluttershy says in a quiet tone.

Twilight looked at everypony with tired eyes. “Thank you, everypony for being here.” She yawns. “You guys are the best.” She drifts off to sleep.

Everypony leaves saying their goodbye. Leaving Discord alone with a sleeping Twilight and tiny Harmonia.

Harmonia let's out a small whimper, but it was loud enough to let Discord pick up the crying sound. He takes the tiny bundle from Twilight's hoofs.

She had her eyes open. Her eyes were yellow with raspberry pink iris. “Well you are just a sweet bundle of chaos.” He cooes at his daughter. Harmonia still whimpering. “Would you like daddy to sing you a lullaby?”

The tiny draconequus looks up at Discord, blinking.

Discord: “Dear Harmonia, what do I say to you? You have my eyes. You have your mother's mane. When you came into this world, you cried and it broke my heart. I'm dedicating my life to you. Chaotic life was never quite my style. But when you smile, you knock me out I fall apart and I thought I was so smart.

Twilight awakes from her slumber, she gave a soft smile as she silently listens to Discord sing to Harmonia.

Discord rocks Harmonia back to sleep. Her tiny eyes getting heavy as he lures her back to sleep.

He quietly mutters the last bit of the lullaby, looking down at his now sleeping daughter. He kiss the top of Harmonia's fuzzy little head.

The lullaby must have put Twilight, back to sleep as well, because she was once again passed out. Either that or that medicine that they gave her was extremely strong.

Discord snaps his claw and poofs in a pink and purple bassinet, that magically rocks itself. He places Harmonia in it, who was still asleep.

He looks at his two girls, who were both asleep. He especially takes a good long look at Twilight, he really didn't know how greatly he deserve somepony like her.

“I promise to love you both with all that I have.” He mutters to them both.

***

5 weeks later….

Harmonia really wasn't that difficult of a baby to begin with, not until she realize that she had chaos powers.

“How do you manage to lose a five week old baby?” Twilight wonders, she looks up from her book.

“Twilight, she has chaos powers in case you forgot.” Discord said.

“What happened this time?” Twilight wonders.

“Well, we was playing “Peek-a-boo” until I closed my eyes for like the fifth or sixth time and she vanished.” Discord said.

Twilight hoof smacks her face. She sighs, getting up from her reading chair. “I'll go find her, this time.” Twilight teleports out of the room.

She reappears in the nursery, but she wasn't there. “Harmonia!” Twilight calls out.

No answer.

She teleports herself to her throne room. “Harmonia?” Twilight calls out once again.

Again no answer.

“Where could you have went?” Twilight thought to herself.

Twilight reappears in the kitchen, the library, even in her room. Harmonia was nowhere in sight.

Twilight was about to start panicking when a voice snapped her out of it. “I think I may have found what you are looking for.” Starlight said, she held out her hoofs.

“Where did you find her?” Asks Twilight.

“She was in my room, have no idea why she ended up there.” Starlight said.

Twilight floats the little draconequus to her. “Well, thank you Starlight.”

“No problem.” Starlight says. She walks off to head back to her studies.

Twilight turned to Harmonia. “You have really got to stop scaring mommy like that, sweetie.” She hugs her daughter tight. “Now come on let's find Daddy.”

They both walk back into the library to find Discord, but he was nowhere in sight. “That's strange. First you, now your Daddy. What is with it my family disappearing on me today.”

***

“Will you marry me?”

“Huh?” Applebloom ears prick up as she walks past the barn, overhearing a voice from inside the house. She backtracks, as she stealthily and quietly peers inside.

Gasping at the sight before her, she thinks to herself: “I have to tell Applejack!”

She moves away from the door and quickly gallops full speed towards the apple orchard.

Applejack was bucking down apples, she had almost enough to help Granny Smith make her world famous apple pie.

“Sis! Sis!” Applebloom calls out, her voice full of worry.

Applejack stops bucking apples. Her ears prick up at the sound of her sister's voice. She watches as a frantic looking Applebloom gallops toward her full force.

“Huh? Applebloom? What's the matter, sugar cube?” Applejack asks. She wonders what has her sister all worked up.

By the time Applebloom reaches her sister she was already out of breath. “.... I just saw Discord in the house…” She huffs out.

“Well maybe he come by to pick something up for Twilight.” Applejack assumes.

“But, he has a ring…. He was proposing-” Applebloom was still out of breath, but Applejack cut her off.

“Well that's nice. It's about time him and Twilight tied the knot.” Applejack kicks, the apple tree once more.

Applebloom shook her head. “No, sis you don't understand. He was proposing to Granny Smith!”

“What?!” Applejack instantly stopped what she was doing. “We have to stop them! Come on!” She says, already ahead.

Both sister siblings gallops full force back to the house. “Applebloom, are you sure you saw a ring?” Applejack says, in between breath as she was running.

“Sis. I know what an engagement ring looks like. I'm positive I saw a ring! It had a one hunk of a diamond in it after all.” Applebloom says.

“Let's just hope we're not too late! That varmint has another thing come to him once I get a hold of him.” Applejack says, she grits her teeth.

*

Applejack kicks in the door to the house.

“Applejack! What in tarnation has gotten into you? I just fixed that door last month.” Granny Smith bellows.

“Sorry, Granny.” She looks apologetic to her grandmother, before snapping her attention back to Discord.

“Look here you varmint!” Her voice full of venom.

Discord clumsiness cause him to almost drop the ring.

“A-A-Applejack! I swear this isn't what it looks like!” Discord says, still holding onto the ring.

“Oh really! Well it looks like to me that you were about to marry Granny Smith! I thought you were with Twilight?” Applejack still had the look of bitterness on her face.

“I am, but listen-” Discord pleads.

“No, buts! Why when I tell Twilight that you broke her hear-” Applejack was pissed that Discord would stoop so low as to go behind Twilight back and do something like that.

“Forget this I'll just go tell Twilight right now.” Applejack hurries off, but she didn't get to far. Discord poofs her back in and holds her by the tail.

“Hey! Put me down you lying varmint!” Applejack says.

“Not until you let me explain.” Says Discord.

Applejack huffs. “Fine! You got ten minutes.”

Granny Smith and Discord both looked at each other laughing.

“What seems to be so funny?” Questions Applejack.

“Applejack, Discord wasn't gonna marry me. Yes, he's still in love with Twilight. But, he was just practicing what to say to Twilight with me.” Granny Smith says, still laughing.

“For what exactly?” Applebloom wonders.

“To marry her, duh.” Discord says, showing Applebloom the ring.

Applebloom felt her cheeks heat with embarrassment.

“So you don't want to marry, Granny Smith?” Applebloom questions.

“Your grandmother is a very sweet mare. I'll admit that, but she does have your grandfather to keep her company as well as you three.” Discord admits.

Discord turns to Granny Smith. “Thank you for the help.”

“Anytime, Discord.” Granny Smith says.

“Now if you excuse me I have a soon-to-be wife I need to get home to. Ta-ta!” Discord said, before disappearing. In a flash he was gone.

Applejack drops to the floor with a hard thud.

She looks at her sister, her eyes narrowed. “You owe me big time missy.”

***

The sky was painted in shades of lavender and light pink, mixed with a mango orange.

“Twilight! I'm home!” Discord calls out, to no one in particular. However, she wasn't her room instead he see her silently standing there on her balcony.

“Twilight?” Discord, approaches her with caution.

“Where have you been?” Twilight questions her voice, slightly monotonous. She didn't even bother to look in his direction. “You know I needed help with Harmonia today.” Her voice sounding: distance, cold, and bitter.

“Where is Harmonia, anyways.” Discord questions.

“Tempest and Starlight decided to watch her, while I finished my tasks for the day.” Twilight's voice was blunt.

“Perfect! Now come on.” Discord said.

“Whatever it is, I don't feel like going anywhere tonight.” Twilight voice, was bitter.
She was about to walk off, but Discord wrapped her around with his tail. “Look Twilight, I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you today. But I promise I will always be here for you for now on. Just believe me when I say this: follow me.”

“Discord, I'm cranky, ill and tired for the day. Can this not wait til tomorrow?” Twilight wonders.

“No, now come on.” Discord teases, he puts his paw of Twilight's eyes.

“Discord, I can't see anything.” Twilight mutters.

He snaps his claw, the two of them end up at Winsome Falls.

Twilight grabs his paw with her aura and removes it. “Discord-” Twilight, but she stops short of her sentence. She looks around at her surroundings. “Where are we?” She wonders.

“Winsome Falls of course.” Discord says.

Twilight watches the sunset from a far. The rays of the sun casting a golden glow on both of them.

This was his chance.

“Twilight?” Discord asks.

Twilight turns away from the sunset and looks at Discord. “Yeah?” Questions Twilight.

“H-How do you like this view?” Discord wonders.

“Coward.” He thinks to himself, behind his back he clutches the ring.

“Well it certainly is breathtaking.” Twilight said, watching the rainbow waterfall spill downward into the river.

Twilight turns to face Discord, who in returns gave her an awkward smile. “Discord are you okay?” Twilight wonders.

Discord nodded his head. “I'm fine really, just doing some thinking, but it's nothing important really. Let's just enjoy this scenery together.”

They both sat in conformable silence for a good fifteen minutes, Discord rubs the leather box he now placed beside him, hidden from Twilight of course.

“What could go wrong? I mean we are at the perfect place with the perfect view, I just can't bring myself to ask her. Ugh! For Celestia sake I practice this with Granny Smith. I mean sure she was old, but that's besides the point. Whatever, it's time to put this plan into action.” Discord argues with his thoughts for a good five seconds.

He grabs Twilight hoof, she looks down at her hoof then back at Discord. “Disco-” Discord places a finger on Twilight’s lips.

“Twilight, I'm not sure where life will take us in the next five to ten years, but I know I don't want to be apart from you or Harmonia. Ever. But right now in this moment I'm sure of us. So sure that I would marry you in a heartbeat.” Discord said, giving Twilight the most heart-warming speech that she has ever heard from anypony.

Tears prick at the corner of Twilight. She gasps at what was being displayed in front of her.

A ring.

Not just a ring an engagement ring.

“I guess what I’m trying to say is: Twilight will you marry me?” Discord asks. He was looking a bit nervous, while he waited Twilight’s answer.

Minutes felt likes hours, which hours lead to it felt like infinity.

Twilight eyes the ring then looks back at Discord. She bit the inside of her cheek. Contemplating her answer.

“We have been through so much in the last few months and I couldn’t ask for a better pony to be by my side through it all.” Twilight thought to herself.

“Well…” Discord wonders.
Tears pour down her face, she gave him the biggest grin on her face.

“Y-yes… yes of course I will.” Twilight cries out. She wraps her hoofs around her soon to be husband and gave him a long, but loving kiss.

“I love you. You big chaotic goofball.” Twilight says.

Discord chuckles. “I love you too. Now let’s have us a wedding!”

Author's Note

Parody Song: Dear Theodosia from Hamilton

Yes! I'm Hamilton trash! :twilightsmile:

Chapter 10

Chapter 10: Wedding Bells and Sacrifices

“So, tell us what happen, darling!” Rarity said, squealing she couldn't contain her excitement any longer.

Twilight sent a message to the girls last night telling them to meet her at her castle in the morning. The following morning, She showed them the ring that Discord had proposed her with.

“Where did he propose to you at?” Rainbow Dash wonders.

Twilight giggles. “He proposed to me at Winsome Falls.”

“That’s the most beautiful spot that I know of. It’s where we took Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo for our Annual Sister Campout a few years back.” Applejack said.
“Well if you girls loved Winsome Falls during the day, just think of what it would look like when the afternoon rays hit the waterfall. It is simply breathtaking.” Twilight had a starstruck look on her face.

“So when’s the wedding?” Pinkie Pie questions.

“Suppose to be six weeks from now.” Twilight said, thinking out loud.

“Well that gives us five and a half weeks to get everything ready.” Starlight says.

“I was also wondering if you girls would be in my wedding? As my bridesmaids?” Twilight wonders.

“Of course, darling! We would be honored to be apart of your wedding.” Squeals Rarity.

“I can help with the decorations and make sure everything runs smoothly for your wedding.” Said Starlight.

“And I can make sure the weather is cleared for your big day,” Rainbow Dash said.

“ I can make you a beautiful wedding dress.” Rarity said

“And I can take care of the catering. We've all got your back Twilight.” Applejack said with a wink.

“Now you can have all the time you need to take care of Harmonia. We will handle the rest.” Starlight said.

“Okay, well I trust you that I'll be in good hoofs with you girls.” Twilight said, she turned and walked away, going into Harmonia room.

Fluttershy turned to the girls. “So, where is this wedding going to happen at?”

The girls thought for a moment. “Well, every wedding that I have ever attended to has always been held in Canterlot.” Rarity said.

“And we can ask Princess Celestia to resign over the ceremony.” Applejack thought.

“Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go to Canterlot.” Rainbow Dash said, flying out the castle door.

***

“So, what do you say Princess? Could you resign over Twilight and Discord's wedding?” Rainbow asks.

“Rainbow Dash! I don't think that's how you ask the Princess if you need something done.” Rarity warns her friend.

Celestia giggles. “It's fine, Rarity. I would love to resign over the wedding. When is it?”

“Six weeks from now, your highness.” Starlight said.

“So why are you girls setting up this early?” Wonders Luna.

“Ever heard the saying ‘Early bird catches the worm’?” Asks Applejack.

“Applejack, I don't think they are from the south.” Pipes up Pinkie Pie.

Luna and Celestia giggles. “Well we will leave you girls to it. If you need us, just ask one of the guards to come and get us.” Said Luna.

Both the princesses turn to leave the girls attend to their business.

“Now let’s get to work girls.” Applejack says.

***

[Rainbow Dash]
Let's all work together
To make this wedding per-r-rfect
[Rarity]
Once we add the dresses
It'll feel, it'll feel, it'll feel...
[All]
It'll feel perfect
[Applejack]
Crates of apples an' cider
Just makes ya wanna celebrate
[Fluttershy]
Wedding music and some popinjays
So the music will be perfect
[All]
And we'll make, and we'll make, and we'll make
This wedding perfect
[Pinkie Pie]
There's nothing like cake and confetti
To help her celebrate her big day
[Rainbow Dash]
She'll need a sonic rainboom
Clear skies for the day
How could anypony awesome ever ask for more?
[All]
And we'll make, and we'll make, and we'll make
A wedding she'll adore
[Rarity]
A wedding dress of flowing silk and lace
[Rainbow Dash]
This bouquet of flowers in a vase
[Pinkie Pie]
Wedding cannons to give her a surprise
[Applejack]

Tarts and treats and some more apple cider
[Fluttershy]
Awaiting hugs from her nice, big, family
[Rarity]
Decorate with some gemstones bright and rare
[Rainbow Dash]
More of this and that
[Pinkie Pie]
Don't forget the invitations
[Rainbow Dash]
How could anypony awesome ask for more than that?
[Applejack]
Let's all work together
[Fluttershy]
To show that we care for
[Rarity]
Princess Twilight Sparkle
[All]
How we make, how we make, how we make
This wedding perfect
How we make, how we make
This wedding perfect
How we make, how we make
This wedding perfect!

***

“The wedding scenery looks beautiful, girls.” Starlight said, she had a clipboard in hoof checking everything off.

“I hope so, it took us five and a half weeks to pull off everything.” Mumbles Rainbow Dash said.

“Pft Dashie, it took us only a three minutes and twelve seconds to do a montage about it.” Giggles Pinkie Pie. “A song that we didn’t include Starlight in.”

Starlight quickly raises an eyebrow. “Anyways, I think it’s safe to say that we can now get Twilight and Discord ready for their big day tomorrow.”

“Pinkie, are you sure those party cannons are safe?” Fluttershy wonders.

“There wedding cannons, Fluttershy. Of course they are safe.” Says Pinkie.

Applejack yawns. “Well, I’m beat. We better get some sleep if we want to be prepared tomorrow for Twilight’s wedding.”

Rarity was the next pony to yawn. “Indeed.”

Luna walks into the room the girls were standing in. “You girls did a marvelous job, everything looks perfect.”

“Thank you, Princess.” Applejack said.

“You girls can stay here for the night if you would like to.” Luna said, offering her hospitality to the girls.

“Oh, Princess we couldn’t impose-” Fluttershy said.

“Please dear Fluttershy I insist.” Luna said, smiling kindly at the shy mare.

The girls all settled down for the night to prepare for Twilight's big day tomorrow.

***

Today was the big day, Ponies and creatures from all over came to the city of Canterlot to celebrate Twilight's big day.

Her family was in the front, Flurry Heart was Twilight's flower girl and Kunzite was Twilight's ring barrier. Shining on the other hand was already crying and the wedding hasn't even started.

“He’s okay he always cries at wedding. Usually it's before the wedding starts.” Cadence mutters the last bit to herself.

Twilight was in the backroom, with the girls getting prepared.

However, Twilight was pacing back and forth clearly nervous.

“Twilight, darling if you don't be still I won't be able to get your makeup finished or even this last curler out of your tail.” Rarity said, her magic aura held a mascara wand and a blush brush.

“Sorry, Rarity. It's just… what if I mess up my portion of wedding vow or I trip going down the the isle.” Complains a worried Twilight.

“You have nothing to worry about Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Besides, everyone has an embarrassing moment at their wedding-” Pinkie Pie said.

Twilight's eye twitches slightly. Everypony looks at Pinkie with a deadpan expressions on their faces. “I mean depending on the pony.” Pinkie lets out a nervous giggle.

Starlight sighs. “Twilight, you have been an amazing mentor and friend to me the past four years and I still continue to learn new things, even without your guidance. I know that if you are amazing in those two areas then you will be an amazing wife and mother.”

Starlight wraps her hoofs around Twilight's neck. “Thank you, Starlight.”

“Now come on, we have a wedding to put on!” Starlight sang.

“We will be there in a bit Starlight.” Applejack said.

Starlight nodded and walked out to join the others.

Twilight waves goodbye before turning around to face the others. “No matter the events that happen today you girls will always play an important part in my life.”

Applejack and the others tear up at Twilight’s comment. “We love you, Twilight.” Fluttershy spoke up.

“Awe I love you too girls. Now come on we have a wedding to throw.” Twilight said.

***

Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow and Pinkie Pie slowly walk side by side of each other, making their way down the aisle before taking their rightful places on the left side. Discord groomspony-and dragon-was on the right side consistency of Spike and Big Mac.

Everypony stood up as Flurry Heart made her way down the aisle, her flower basket levitated in gold aura around the handle.

Her magic scattered the red rose petals on the floor. She stopped half way, before continuing looking in her basket. “Daddy, I ran out of flowers.” Flurry said, a sad expression was displayed on her face.

The crowd of ponies stifled a giggle at the young Alicorn, even Shining and his wife. “It's okay sweetie. Keep going.” Shining said.

Flurry smiled and walks down the rest of the isle and stood at her post. The classical music of the Wedding March plays softly in the choir of birds that Fluttershy was directing.

Twilight's magical aura grip at the door handles and pulls them open.

She looked beautiful, as she made her way down the aisle. Her silk white wedding dress trailed behind her, the front was made of lace and accompanied with colorful gems and tiny silver beads.

A veil covered her eyes, but she could still see where she was going. Applejack and her friends where tearing up as they watched their best friend get marry.

Celestia smiles at the both of them before addressing to the crowd. “Mares and Gentlecolts, we have gathered here today to celebrate the union of Princess Twilight Sparkle and Discord. The strength of their commitment is clear, the power of their love is undeniable.”

Both of them smiled at each other. “May we have the rings please?” Asks Celestia. Kunzite smiles as he lifts the tiny pillow with two rings on it. Celestia grasps the ring in her light golden aura, sliding on on Twilight’s horn and the other one on Discord’s finger. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.” Announces Celestia.

Discord and Twilight share a passionate, yet loving kiss. Her friends watch from aside, each of them tearing up.

“Rainbow Dash,” Celestia whispers. “That’s your cue.”

“Oh! Right!” Rainbow says, she quickly zooms off. She was flying faster than a speeding bullet, her speed broke the sound barrier. “Best wedding ever!”

***

The reception of the wedding took place as night began to fall across the city of Canterlot, thanks to Luna who was raising the moon.

The reception was in full swing, creatures and ponies were chatting and getting along, despite their racial differences. Twilight, Discord and the Mane 6- along with Spike and Big Mac- were sitting at the head of the wedding table.

A slow song came onto the speaker, Discord looked at Twilight smiling at her basfully.

“May I have this dance?” Ask Discord.

Twilight nodded. “Girls we’ll be back.” She tells her friends.

On the dance floor, Twilight and Discord smile at each other. “Is this everything you ever dreamed it would be?” murmurs Discord to Twilight.

“Yes,” Twilight swoons. “Today was absolutely perfect. I mean besides the fact that my niece ran out of flowers.” Twilight giggles at that last bit.

Discord lets out a chuckle himself. “Yes, that was adorably chaotic.”

From afar, the Princesses watches as Twilight glides gracefully across the dance floor with Discord.

“Aw, Twilight looks so in love! Doesn’t she sister?” Luna said.

Celestia stays silent for a moment.

“Tia?” Luna had a concerned expression on her face, clearly something was bothering at her sister. “Hello? Is anypony in there?” Luna waves her hoof in front of her sister's face. “Earth to Celestia!” She shouts a little.

Celestia sighed. “Wha- oh! Yes, yes she looks very happy.” Celestia quitely mutters between the both of them.

“Sister? Is something wrong?” Luna asks.

“No I'm fine, really.” Celestia said. Her expression remain calm as she giving Luna a fake smile.

Celestia walks off. “Where are you going?” Luna asks.

Celestia lets out a soft giggle. “You’ll see.” she teases her younger sister. “May I have everypony’s attention please?” Celestia calls out to the crowd.

The slow music stops, leaving Twilight and Discord to return to their seats. While everypony else pauses, looking at the Princess of the Sun awaiting her speech for the bride and groom. But instead, Celestia nods in Spike's direction.

Spike grabs a microphone, in a cheerful and overly excited tone as he presents Princess Celestia. "Alright, alright. That's what I'm talkin' about! Now everyone give it up for your royal highness... Princess Celestia!"

Twilight looked at her dragon friend/brother. Slightly confused by what he was referring to. "Spike? What are you-" Twilight asks, confusion clearly in her tone.

Celestia without word, grab the microphone in her aura. She looks at the happy couple trying to hide the look of hurt on her face. She plasters a fake smile.

"May you always be satisfied." She winks at the couple, before turning on her heels to leave.

Chapter 11

Chapter 11:The Happiest Of Birthdays

5 years later…

It was 5am, Celestia’s sun has yet to rise to begin a new day in the town of Ponyville, even the sound of a rooster’s call had yet to be echoed throughout the small town. Ponies still snug in their beds, except for one little baby draconequus with a long black mane with white, purple and pink highlights was wide wake before Celestia's sun, looking excitingly out her bedroom window. She grinned to herself knowing that today was a very special day. Despite the time, Harmonia raced out of her bedroom and down the hall making her way to her parents bedroom.

The door was shut, sadly Harmonia had no way of entering- or so she thought. She snapped her paw and was inside her parents room within a matter of seconds. She watched from afar as both Twilight and Discord was still sound asleep, cuddling each other. They have been a happy couple since their little daughter was born “Mommy! Daddy!” Harmonia squeals excitedly.

But sadly, they were both still asleep. Harmonia huffs, then an idea came to her. She pounces onto the bed, but her pounce was not hard enough to awake them.

“Mommy! Daddy!” She squeals once again.

Again no answer.

“Mommy! Daddy!” She squeals, this time louder.

Twilight was slightly awaken by the sudden outburst coming from their daughter. Twilight softly groan, her eyes still dazed with sleep. “Your daughter is awake.” Softly spoken Twilight.

Discord stirs from his slumber. “Before Celestia's sunrise she's your daughter.” Discord murmurs to Twilight.

Harmonia was still trying to get her parents attention. “Come on, daddy!” Harmonia said, pawing at Discord’s face. Once Discord didn't answer, Harmonia used her claw and pricks Discord's fur. Discord jumps, sending Harmonia flying across the room. Luckily, she managed to land on something soft with a thud. However, Discord turned back over throwing the blanket over himself.

Harmonia growls this time, racing back to the bed. She stops and jumps up. “Since you won't wake up maybe a cold shower will do the trick.” Harmonia thought to herself. She snaps her claw and and a mediocre sized rain cloud appears over Discord's head, the rain pours and startles Discord fully wake. “You promised!” She huffs, she was now giving Discord a rather unpleasant look.

“Okay, Okay. I'm up. I'm up.” Discord said. Yawning, he snaps the storm cloud away and replacing the pillowcase with a dry one. Harmonia giggles and crawls in between of the two, smiling at just how loved she is by two creatures.

The glow of Celestia’s sun reflected off of Twilight’s castle. It has been a long 5 years since Princess Twilight’s and Discord’s wedding. Twilight gave a soft groan and gave a small smile to her now 5 year old daughter. “Hello there sweetheart. Happy Birthday.” Twilight said, tickling Harmonia. Harmonia giggled pawing at her dad, she frowned once he did not respond to Harmonia reaction. Discord apparently fell back asleep. Twilight rolled her eyes. She places Harmonia on her side of the bed, before proceeding to kick Discord from underneath the blankets.

“Happy Birthday Harmonia!” Discord shouted, unaware that his wife kicked him. Harmonia laughed playfully as she hugged her father’s tail. Twilight smiled at the sight and gasped as she turned around and looked at the time. She flew straight out of bed, leaving Discord and Harmonia confused.

“Um, Twilight, sweetie, what are you doing?” Discord asked, ruffling his daughter’s mane. Twilight levitated a scroll, opened it and glanced quickly over it.

“I just realized that we don’t have everything ready for Harmonia’s birthday party today! We still need to get everything set up! The decorations, the catering, the music! There is so much to do in such short amount of time!” Twilight panicked. Discord chuckled and floated over to his wife and patted her on the head.

“Relax my dear, I’m sure you will have everything sorted out! Besides the party won’t start until 9:00 am” Discord said, floating back into bed. Twilight’s eyes widen as she looked at the clock. It read 8:15 am.

“I’m fifteen minutes behind schedule!” Twilight yelled. She grabbed her daughter and Discord with her magic and settled them both on the ground gently but firmly. Twilight paced back and forth, across the room, taking short, quick breaths. Discord snapped his claw and placed Twilight in a bubble.

“Dear, you are taking this a bit too far. How about you get everything sorted for Harmonia’s birthday while I take care of her?” Twilight growled quietly as she was placed on the ground, out of the bubble. Twilight looked at her daughter who was nomming on the pillows and sneezing. Twilight used the technique that Cadence taught her all those years ago and looked at Discord with calming eyes.

“You’re right Discord. I will take care of the party while you take care of Harmonia.” She flew up to Discord and kissed his cheek. He blushed as he grabbed his wife and dips her in mid-air and they both shared a passionate kiss. Harmonia looked at her parents and gagged at the sight.

“EWWWWWWWWW!” she cried, covering her eyes. Twilight and Discord stopped kissing and blushed. She flew down to her daughter and kissed her on her nose. Twilight opened the bedroom door and began to walk out.

“I will see you guys at the party! Remember, the party’s at Sweet Apple Acres this year!” Twilight said looking back at them. Discord gave Twilight a small wave, assuring her that she had nothing to worry about. She waved back with a small nod as she closed the door.

Discord turned back to his daughter. “Since mommy is gone, how about we practice your chaotic magic?” Harmonia looks at her dad in confusion. “But mommy doesn’t like it when we use our magic in the house.” Discord laughed. “Come on, sweetheart. Mommy don’t have to know. Consider it a early morning birthday gift.” He says smiling at her.

Harmonia thought for a moment. “Okay daddy.” She had a giddy smile upon her face. “That’s my girl. Now let’s begin practicing shall we? Think you can transform into something quite simple? Say a bunny.” Discord say.

Harmonia scrunched her muzzle. “Why not something, terrifying?” A sly, but overall adorable smile appeared on her face. “Well for somepony- er creature- your size I just want to take it easy on you. This is your first time after all.” Discord said, showing concern for his daughter.

Harmonia rolled her eyes. “Come on, daddy. You are too easy. Unlike you, I like a challenge.” Harmonia stuck her tongue out, playfully.

Discord let out a chuckle, his eyes shown mischief. “Alright! Think you could transform into a… Ursa Minor?” A sly smile played on his mouth. “Please that is too easy.” Harmonia says, she uses her lions paw and snaps her padded fingers. Out of a puff of raspberry magenta smoke, came a baby Ursa Minor. Discord looked at his daughter with adoring eyes. “Awe, Harmonia you look adorable!” Discord squeals.

Harmonia looks at her father quizzically. “Adorable? Daddy, I want to look terrifying!” Harmonia huffs. However, she proceed to give a terrifying, yet adorable growl.

Discord gave a small chuckle. “Of course you look terrifying, sweetie.” Harmonia sighed and transformed back into her adorable five year old self.

“How about I fix you a Birthday breakfast? I know you must be hungry.” Discord said. Harmonia expression changes from disappointment to excitement. “Can I have dessert for breakfast just this once daddy, please?” Harmonia looks at her dad with big round baby doll eyes.

“As long as you don't tell your mother. Of course we can!” Discord said, he snaps both of them into the kitchen. Snapping his claws, he displays before the both of them: candy, cakes, cupcakes and her favorite banana pudding in front of them.

Harmonia looks at the food, shocked. “Anything for my little girl! Now we better hurry if you want to make it to your birthday party on time.” Discord said, who was starting to eat. Harmonia smiled to herself before digging into the food as well.

***

Twilight places the banner that said: “Happy Birthday Harmonia!” between two sky-rise planks that hung overhead.

“How does this look?” Twilight asks to no one in particular. Pinkie Pie, who was placing out Harmonia's cake on the table zooms over to Twilight's side. She had two hooves in front of her, narrowed. “A little to the left.” Twilight places the banner in the direction that Pinkie said. “Now just a bit lower. No wait, that too low. A little bit higher. Just maybe two centimeters over. Now-” Pinkie directed.

“Ugh! Pinkie your directions are making no sense. Here let me get this for you Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said, zooming upwards to the banner she places the banner in the correct way that Twilight needed it to be. Pinkie Pie uses her hoofs once again to make sure it was aligned correctly. “Perfect!” She says her tone in a singing song voice, before bouncing back to finish her task.

Twilight turned to Applejack, speaking. “Thank you once again, Applejack for letting us use your family's barn for Harmonia's birthday party.” She said.

“It's no problem, Sugar cube! Anypony that is related to you Twilight, you already know is practically family.” Applejack said, a gentle smile was given to her friend.

Twilight smiled back. “And thank you for coming as well Countess- I mean Rara.” Said Twilight.

“It's no trouble Twilight! I'm happy to perform for your little one.” Rara said, smiling at the Princess.

“She will be so surprise to know that your here.” Twilight said, smiling.

“Well today must be her lucky day because surprise! I'm moving to Sweet Apple Acres!” Rara announced.

“But, Darling what about your tour?” Asks Rarity.

“It's on hold for a good while, so I'll have time to spend it with love ones and friends, you know reconnect in the place I truly belong.” Rara said.

“But why would you want to move-” Pinkie Pie stopped and noticed the chemistry between Applejack and the former pop star. “Oooohhh!” A smug smile played on Pinkie’s lips. Applejack blushes slightly before changing the subject.

Applejack shifts uncomfortably for a moment. Her blush toning down in her cheeks. “So uh, Twilight. Do we have everything that we need?” She asks, trying her best not to stumble across her words.

Twilight unrolls her checklist. “Lets see…. Cake?”

“Check.” Says Pinkie Pie.

“Decorations?” She questions.

“Check, darling.” Rarity announces.

“Catering and food?” Questions Twilight.

“Check.” Announce Applejack.

“Of course you already know you have entertainment.” Starlight said, looking over at Rara.

She giggles lightly in return. “You got that right.”

Twilight scans over her list, muttering to herself as she checks everything off.

“Now the only thing we seem to be missing is-” Twilight tapped her hoof, feeling like she forgot something.

“You did remember to send out the invitations, correct?” Tempest questions.

Twilight eyes shrunk. Rainbow Dash smacks her hoof against her face. “You forgot, didn't you?” She mumbles.

A nervous expression displayed on her face. “Maybe….” She said. She smacks her head against the table. “Out of all the things that I have on this list I forgot the invitations.” She mutters loud enough.

Rarity walks over to her, her watch in hoof. “Darling, you have plenty of time still. It's only 8:53 am.” She said, trying to calm her nerves.

“I don't think 7 minutes, is enough time to send out all ten of these invitations.” Twilight said, shuffling the cards.

“You can always teleport the cards to them.” Pinkie Pie said. “I mean if you don't want to be stressed and also there won't be this annoying plot hole in the story.”

Twilight looked at her friend in utter confusion for a moment, before realizing what she said was right- I mean besides the plot hole part. “Pinkie your a genius!” Twilight said. “Eh, it's what I do.” She shrugs off the comment like it was nothing.

Twilight vanishes the invitations in a snap. Five minutes later, ponies came just in time. Twilight breathed in a sigh of relief and not a moment too soon. Harmonia and Discord, both appear in a flash of white light. “Sorry, if we are 'fashionable late’ as Rarity would say.” Discord said. “Discord, darling. I gave up that saying three years ago.” Rarity giggles.

“Harmonia, Happy Birthday!” Squeals Flurry Heart. She gave her cousin a hug. “Thank you Flurry.” Says Harmonia who was giddy with excitement.

Harmonia looks around her Aunt Applejack’s barn, although it's not where she'd imagine it would be, she still thought it was perfect for her otherwise. She walks around admiring everything, while the older ponies and creatures mixed and mingled. Harmonia’s aunt's and her parents were the ones hosting this party and she could be more happy of the hard work they put into making her day special.

“Come on! There's somepony I would like you to meet.” Flurry said, her voice full of excitement. She pulls her cousin by her Ursa Minors paw, telling her to come on. Harmonia giggles. “I'm coming, I'm coming.” she says. Harmonia follows Flurry to the appearance of a snowy white unicorn. The unicorn had a wavy snow white mane with light blue and bubblegum pink highlighted streaks, she looked slightly similar to her mother, but she had blue eyes like her father. She had an appearance that was overall sweet, but there was something rather intimidating about her overall appearance Harmonia just could not put her hoof on it.

“Harmonia, may I introduce you to my little sister, Crystal.” Flurry Heart said. Introducing the two, she smiled between the two. Harmonia had a look of concern on her face. While Flurry’s sister had the proper look of composure displayed on her face.

Crystal gave a side glance at the tiny draconequus. “And you are?” Crystal asked, her tone sound uptight and snobbish.

Flurry gave a light heart chuckle. “Crystal you know our cousin, Harmonia. Don’t be so rude.” She scolded her younger sibling.

Crystal rolled her eyes. “In case you forgot dear sister. I don't speak to half breeds.” Harmonia rolled her eyes. Harmonia’s mother always taught her to be nice to other, no matter how rude they maybe.

“It's nice to meet you.” Mumbles Harmonia. “Charmed.” Crystal said. Flurry and Harmonia looked at each other, before all three of them fell into complete silence listening to the music. “If your hungry we have cake.” Harmonia said. This situation was more awkward than Flurry had anticipated. “Yes, well if it’s not made of fondue, then I don’t want any.” She said, her tone sound slightly harsh.

Harmonia shrank back a little, kindly hurt by this young mares words. Flurry furrows her brows a little, disappointed by her sister’s rather rude behavior. “Does this shindig have a powder room?” Crystal ask, her muzzle scrunches slightly at the barnyard smell.

“Crystal! That’s not very nice to say! Why would you say that to Harmonia?” Flurry replied, shocked at the words that came out of her sister’s mouth.

“It’s called speaking the truth,” Crystal smiles smugly at her sister. “You should try it sometime.”

With that she saturate off to find the restroom- or in her case the “powder room”. Once her sister was out of earshot, Flurry looked at her cousin. “I’m so sorry about Crystal’s behavior, Harmonia if I knew she was going to act like this. I would have asked Mom and Dad to let her stay at home.” she says. Harmonia gave her a small smile. “It’s okay, really.” she mutters. Flurry shook her head. “No it isn’t, she had no right to act to you like that. I’ll tell mom and dad since she won’t listen to me and get this all straightened out.” Flurry began to walk away, but Harmonia stops her.

“Flur, please don’t.” Harmonia pleads. Flurry gave her a confused look. “Harmonia, I have to. What she is doing is basically bullying you just because you are different.” Flurry explains. Harmonia turns and looks at Crystal who is surrounded by a group of fillies and colts, who looked slightly older than her.

Crystal was a brat, Harmonia could admit that. However, she was a snobby brat who would do anything to get what she wanted- no matter the cost. Her sister and her parents all love her, no matter how hard it is to put up with her.

Crystal was a pony who had high expectations. She wanted to go to the best school. She wanted to be invited to every birthday party in Equestria. She wanted to be the center of attention, anywhere and everywhere.

“Let's just forget about it, okay?” Harmonia says, she looks at her cousin with pleading eyes. Flurry sighs. “Fine. If that's what you want.” she mutters.

“Let's just enjoy the rest of the party okay?” Harmonia says, plastering a fake smile. The girls make their way back to the rest of the party-goers.

“How are you enjoying the party, sweetie?” Twilight asks her daughter. Harmonia smiles giddy at her mom. “It's great, mommy. You guys really outdone yourselves.” Twilight wraps a wing around her daughter and pulls her into a hug. “Well I'm glad your enjoying it! In fact, we have one more surprise for you.” Twilight looks down, smiling at her daughter.

“What is it?” Harmonia asks, her voice full of excitement. “You would have to wait just a bit longer.” Twilight teases. “Right now, we have to serve your cake and you have presents to open.” She explains.

“Well what are we waiting on, come on mommy!” Harmonia said, she poofs excitingly across the room to the table awaiting for her cake.

Twilight giggles to herself. “Alright everypony, gather around! It's time to serve cake.” Twilight announces.

*

After the cake was served it was time for Harmonia to open gifts. She tears open the first gift, which was from Rarity. Her gift was a sparkly magenta bow. “This is very pretty Aunt Rarity! Thank you.” she said, placing the bow in her mane. “Your welcome, darling.” Said Rarity.

“This next one is from your Uncle Shining and Aunt Cadence.” Twilight said, looking at the name tag.

“Hey! We pitched in too!” Shouts Flurry.

Twilight giggles. “Yes, and your cousins Flurry Heart and Crystal.”

Twilight gives the bag to Harmonia. She removes the thin sheet of light pink paper. She pulls out a stuffed animal, not just any stuffed animal it was a raspberry pink stuffed bear with two diamond encrusted buttons for eyes. “You now have your own Wammy.” Flurry announces. Harmonia smiles with glee at the gift. “Thank you, guys.” Harmonia said, hugging the bear with her paw.

“Your welcome, sweetie.” Cadence says.

Twenty-five minutes has passed and Harmonia has opened all of her gifts, except one.

Harmonia pulls gently on Twilight's tail. Twilight looks down at her daughter. “Where's my gift from you mommy?” She asks.

“Oh right! Well I already gave you my gift. It was the gift of life.” Twilight pauses for a moment, for dramatic effect. Harmonia looked a bit upset, but didn't exactly show it. “And a super famous popstar to perform at your party!”

Harmonia eyes were wide with excitement. “Ooo is it Sapphire Shores?” She questions.

“No.” Teases Twilight.

Harmonia takes a second guess. “Is it Songbird Serenade?” she asks.

Twilight gave a confusing look. “She was in the movie, plus she was too expensive to book.” She mutters the last bit to herself.

Harmonia ears down folded a bit. “Well then who?” She wonders.

“We got you…. Countess Colouratura!” Twilight announces.

As if on cue, the tiny stages curtains lifted and from it appears Rara. “Just Rara is fine Twilight.” Rara smile. “And I heard that today was a special day for a special little filly.”

While Rara was still speaking. Harmonia looks at her mom. “This is the best day ever! Thank you!” She hugs her mom tightly. “Your welcome, sweetheart!” Twilight said.

The two spends the rest of the party listening to Rara singing to some of her favorite songs.

The party winds down after two pm. Twilight and the girls were cleaning up the party mess, while everypony else went outside the barn to soak in the last of Celestia's rays before night fall.

“Can I have a word, with my dear cousin?” Crystal asks, pulling Harmonia away from a small group of ponies.

“Um Crystal, why did you do that?” Harmonia wonders, looking back at her friends or at least she hopes they were her friends.

“So, a little birdy told me that you were attending Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.” Crystal says, her tone nonchalant.

Harmonia face scrunched with confusion. “How did you-” She was about to ask, but Crystal cuts her off.

“Know? Let's just say I have my ways of knowing. And if you haven't noticed it's a school for Gifted Unicorns not whatever you are.” Crystal said, waving a hoof dismissively at her appearance.

“In case you haven't noticed I'm a draconequus. I may not be a unicorn, but I'm still talented and very skilled in magic.” Harmonia said, defending herself.

“And who tells you that? Aunt Twilight.” Crystal gives a sly smile. Harmonia didn't speak, instead a sinister look creeps onto her face. As if her life flashes before her eyes, Crystal was already pinned down to the ground.

“I'm about sick and tired of your games!” Growls Harmonia. “You have taunted me for the last time!” The grip on Crystal hoof tightens. Harmonia eyes glows white. A look of sheer horror was displayed on the unicorn face. “You think you're going to get away with this? You’re dead wrong!”

A orb of raspberry pink magic was in the displayed in Harmonia paw. “Say bye-bye.” A wicked grin spreads across her face.

She was about to fire her blast when a voice snaps her out of it. At first it was distance, then the voice got louder. “Harmonia!” Twilight repeated. “Harmonia! Stop!” She screams.

Harmonia snaps out of it and looks at what she was about to do. She quickly gets up and backs away.

Crystal, who was still terrified, gets up in a hurry and runs to her mom and dad. Harmonia, however gets looked upon. Ponies murmuring, witnessing what just went down.

“Okay, guys the party's over!” Pinkie Pie says, clearing the room. “Everypony leave!” She said. With that, the ponies all scattered leaving the Mane six alone with Harmonia.

“Am I really bad?” Harmonia thought to herself.

***

Later that night, Twilight and Harmonia was curled up together, reading one of Harmonia's favorite bedtime stories: The Alicorn and the Pea before bed.

“.... And the Queen lays one tiny green pea under the dozen of mattresses that was piled high to the ceiling.” Twilight said

Discord poofs in. “Ooo I love this story!” He says.

“No, you are not telling this story. The last time it happened it involved: flying bananas, a quesadilla monster, and a very bizarre but disturbing draconequus queen.” Explains Twilight.

Harmonia giggles. “How wacky are daddy's stories exactly?” Harmonia wonders.

“Very wacky.” Mutters Twilight.

“Hey! I happen to be the best storyteller, next to Pinkie Pie of course.” Discord brags.

The little draconequus thought to herself for a moment before speaking up. Discord was still muffled with laughter. “Um Mommy? Daddy? Can I ask you something?” Harmonia asks, her voice sounded distressed, worried even.

“Yes my little fuzzball?” Discord asks, looking at her with a concerned smile.

Harmonia looked at her mother for a second, contemplating on how to word what she was about to say. “Tomorrow I start my first day of school at Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns, right?”

“Ah yes, that school that’s with the crazy hippogriff and the Yak that tripped over her own hair and the pony who sounds like Feather Bangs. Oh wait…. Wrong school!! Hahahaha! Ahem, right, what about that school?” Discord wonders.

Harmonia looks at both of her parents. “Why do I have to go there? I'm not even a unicorn for crying out loud! I know I'm different from everypony here. So why do I have to go there?” Harmonia cries out, she looked upset like she wanted to cry for being so different.

Discord and Twilight saw the look on their daughter’s face and slightly panicked. Discord didn’t exactly know how to handle situations like this. Twilight was giving him a look to say that it was his turn to give their daughter a lesson. He snapped his tail and he turned into a baby rattlesnake. Twilight gasped in shock at the sight. He hissed cutely at Harmonia.

Harmonia giggles, but only for a few seconds. “Daddy, this isn't exactly a direct answer.”

“Well, you see that I’m a snake right now. Sure, other ponies will scream at the sight of a baby rattlesnake but snakes will see that I’m harmless and I just want to make friends.” Discord explained.

“What does a story about a snake have to do with what I'm going through exactly?” Harmonia, scratched her head confused more than ever now than before by what her dad was trying to explain. Discord sighed as he poofs back to his normal self.

“I’m saying that no matter what you look like, ponies will like you for you. Remember the stories that I told you about me?” Discord explained once more.

“Yeah, as if I couldn't get it out of my head a million time.” Harmonia giggles.

“Oh, so my daughter has a little bit of sass now? Well, it looks like she has taken after her mother!” Discord smirked.

“Hey! Says her father who can make pigs fly!” Twilight smiled, nudging Discord playfully.

“Sorry, Daddy.” Harmonia looked at her dad, an apologetic look was displayed on across her face. “I guess all of this worrying is just getting to me.” She looked at him a bit sheepishly.

“You do realize you are too young to worry, right?” Twilight said, stifling a laugh. “But I think what your dad is trying to say is: ponies are going to judge and they will talk. But don't let someone try to bring you down just because you look different from everypony else.”

Harmonia nods. “Now is that all you needed to ask us?” Twilight wonders.

Harmonia thinks for a moment before speaking. “Mommy, am I really bad?” She wonders.

“What do you mean, sweetheart?” She wonders. “Don't play it off like you did not just see what happened today.” Harmonia said, her tone sounding bitter.

“I know what I saw, and you are not bad. You just let your anger get the best of you.” Twilight soothes.

“Why did you get angry anyways, Harmonia?” Discord wonders.

“Because, Crystal was making fun of me!” Huffs Harmonia. “Isn't Crystal that snobby pony that everyone hates, yet let alone fear her just because she has a secret or two held over somepony?” Discord wonders.

Harmonia nods. “Sounds like a mini Diamond Tiara and Sunset Shimmer to me.” He mutters.

“She said I should be a Unicorn instead just so I could be accepted into Celestia's school, mommy.” Harmonia said.

Discord was now pissed, his eyes glowed red. “What!” His voice sounded dangerous. “You should have just finished her then.” He said.

“Discord!” Twilight snaps. “What? Heck, that brat deserves what should have been coming to her.” Huffs Discord.

Twilight rolls her eyes. “Just remember to try and control your emotions and you will be just fine.” Twilight kisses the top of Harmonia's head.

“Goodnight, princess.” She said.

“Night.” Harmonia replies back. Twilight and Discord shuts the door to her room. Harmonia tosses and turns for the next thirteen minutes in her bed. “School for Unicorns.” Repeated into her head for the over the next three hours before finally falling asleep.

Author's Note

Fuzzball is Discord's nickname for Harmonia :twilightsmile:

Chapter 12

Chapter 12: School Daze

Harmonia looks at her appearance long and hard in the oblong mirror that was hanging on the back of her bedroom door. “I just hope ponies will accept me for me.” The tiny draconequus thought to herself.

“Honey, breakfast is ready!” Discord calls from downstairs. “Coming!” She shouts back. She gives one last look at her appearance. She quickly fix a loose strand of her white mane, before gathering her belongs.She straps her saddlebag on her back, and was now making her way towards the kitchen.

The whole castle wavered in the aroma scent of pancakes. “Mhm something smells good, mommy.” Harmonia said, before making her way to the table. Twilight looks up from the book she was reading. “Your father is just making pancakes is all.” Twilight said, before going back to her book. Harmonia looks at the book title: Dancing With The Shadows. “Dancing With The Shadows? What is it about, mommy?” She asks, gazing at the title.

“Well, I haven't read much of it, and I'm only on Chapter 4, but so far it's really good!” Twilight said. She bookmarked the page she was reading, placing the book down beside her. “Are you ready for your first day of Magic Kindergarten?” Twilight asks.

“I’m ready! I got my quills, scrolls, extra quills and scrolls and a healthy lunch packed!” Harmonia said proudly. Twilight giggles. “You sound more prepared then I was when I first started at Celestia’s school.” Twilight said.

“Well, our daughter learns from the best.” Discord chuckled as he snapped his fingers to make a plate appear with fresh, golden pancakes. “Enjoy!” He beams. Harmonia was famished at the sight of the fluffy golden pancakes. She teleported herself to the table and nommed on the pancake, enjoying every bite of it. Twilight smiled as she continued to read her book. Discord floated beside Harmonia.

“So, I heard that your snobby, little cousin Crystal will be joining you at Magic Kindergarten! But don’t worry about her! You are going to make your daddy proud and make lots of new friends!” Said Discord, trying to boost their daughters confidence.

“You do know Crystal is 7. So she is going to be in a grade or so higher than Harmonia…..” Twilight corrected Discord.

“True! True! But other ponies can bully ponies that are smaller and weaker so make sure that you turn them into ducks!” Discord laughed.

“Do you really want her to get into trouble with Celestia on the first day?” Twilight asks.

“Of course not! I’m just saying that she needs to stick up for herself when the time comes! If she does get into trouble, I will have a long talk with Princess Kay-Kay” Discord snapped his fingers and he made himself look like Celestia.

“I’m Princess Celestia and I sent my sister away in the moon for a thousand years! I am such a busy pony! So much royal duties!” Discord said in a high-pitched voice.
“I'm starting to question why I even married you in the first place.” Twilight mumbles, but rolls her eyes playfully at her husband.

“So, you got your healthy lunch Harmonia?” Discord smirked at his daughter. Harmonia giggles at what her father meant.

Twilight give a suspense look between her daughter and husband. “What are you two up to?” Twilight tone, sounded playful but also suspicious.

Discord circles around Twilight, wrapping her in his snake tail. He chuckles playfully.

“Oh Twilight! Whatever do you mean? Can’t me and my daughter have some fun together?” Discord smirked at his wife. Twilight rolled her eyes playfully.

“Of course, it's just-” Twilight looks over at the kitchen’s clock. It read 7:15 am, Celestia’s school opened at promptly at 7:30.

“Okay Harmonia. Time to finish up breakfast and we all need to head off to Celestia’s school.” Twilight said with a bit of panic in her voice. Harmonia notices this and gulped down her breakfast. She grabbed her saddlebag and waited for her parents to get ready.

***

Celestia’s school was bustling with unicorns all shapes, sizes and colors. Harmonia gulped as she looked around. She was a bit nervous than anticipated. Her eyes widen as she saw Princess Celestia walking towards her. Princess Celestia smiled but slightly frowned once she saw Twilight and Discord. Princess Celestia slightly shook her head, brushing off her rather cold shoulder. She looks down at Harmonia.

“Hello there little one. Are you ready for your first day?” Harmonia slowly nodded, showing the princess that she was excited but also a bit nervous. Celestia softly giggled.

“Well, I am happy to tell you that you are in good hooves and I am excited to have you here at my school.” She said, giving Twilight a happy glance. Twilight smiled back.

Twilight looked down at her daughter. She tried not to let her emotions get the best of her today, but Discord however, he was a lost cause already shedding a few tears.

“Are you crying?” Twilight smirks, playfully.

“N-no, it's called Liquid Pride. T-totally different thing.” Discord says, between sniffles as he wipes away a tear.

Harmonia hugs her mother and father. Princess Celestia watches sadly as she wishes that she had a family like that. She shakes it off and taps Harmonia's shoulder.

“It’s time to go Harmonia.” Celestia turns around and begins to walk away, motioning her to follow her to her new class.

The inside of the school looked a lot smaller from the outside than it does on the inside. The pair pass through an arch way of the school and enter another hallway.

Harmonia carefully followed the princess. A million thoughts running through her small chaotic mind. Princess Celestia stops. “Are you okay, Harmonia?” She asks, her tone calm and caring.

“O-of course. Just a bit nervous is all.” Harmonia said. “Well you have nothing to worry here everypony is rather friendly.” Celestia said, her tone assuring.

“Yeah, I’m probably worried about nothing” Harmonia thought to herself as Princess Celestia opened a classroom door.

“This will be your classroom. I hope you enjoy your time here. I will coming over later to see how you are doing.” Celestia said, calmly. Harmonia nodded happily as she watched Celestia walk away. Harmonia took a deep breath and walked into her new classroom, prepared to face anything.

A unicorn colt with a pink curly mane and a periwinkle light blue coat, gazes at Harmonia with his blue eyes. An unsuspecting look on his face. “Uh? Can I help you?” Harmonia asks, her look unsure.

The colt said nothing and left, quickly might I add. “Well that was unexpected.” Harmonia mutters to herself. The whole class stops and stares at the tiny draconequus, whispering. “Oh come on!” Harmonia huffs.

Harmonia looks over to see if a teacher was available, but no pony was there. “Seriously, does this school even have teachers!?” Harmonia questions out loud.

Harmonia walks out of the classroom, and down the hall. She gazes upon the artifacts that was placed on the walls and in glass cases. She looks in one of them, noticing that one of them was of her mom. “Star Pupil: Twilight Sparkle.” It was a picture of her mom back when she was a filly.

“I'm never going to be like her…” Harmonia mutters to herself, her ears flattened.

***

Harmonia walks down the empty hallway. Her head down low still as she makes her way to the bathroom.

The bathroom stalls were empty thank Celestia, Harmonia gazed at her appearance in the bathrooms mirror. She suddenly remembers a spell that she was studying last night before bed. “I’m sorry mommy.” She mutters to herself. “I just hope this works.” Harmonia said to nopony in particular.

In a puff of raspberry, she slowly opens her eyes. “Yay! I did it!” Harmonia said, her tone excited.

She looked in the mirror. Her mane remains the same except her body was pony-shaped and was dark grey. She was a unicorn. Her eyes was raspberry pink, but her iris remained dark yellow. However, she remained a blank flank.

She took a deep breath and starts to head back to the classroom.

***

Harmonia looked at all the ponies eating their packed lunches and chatting to their friends outside in the school gardens. Harmonia sat down under an apple tree, and reached into her saddlebag and pulled out dark red lunch box appear in front of her. She opened it up to find all types of sugary sweets.

She smiled as she remembered the events that happened with her father. This is what she calls a “healthy” lunch. She ate her cotton candy and was about to bite into a large chocolate chip cookie when she was fretted by a unicorn with a snow white coat, lavender eyes and with a little blue and pink slightly curled mane. Her cutie mark was a rose but it was made out of crystal.

“So, you are the new pony in this school right?” The unicorn said. Harmonia nodded as she took a bite of her cookie. The unicorn sat down next to her, looking over her shoulder to see all the sweets in her lunchbox.

“You must really like sweets huh?” The white unicorn asks. “Well, my mother and father always pack a healthy lunch as well.” The unicorn opens her lunchbox and reveals a daisy sandwich with a juice box and a small cupcake. Harmonia looked at her lunch box in shock.

“Seriously?! That’s what’s in your lunchbox!?” Harmonia exclaims.

“Yep. Your lunch box speaks fun. My lunchbox speaks fancy. My name is Jewel Bliss. But my friends call me Jewel” Jewel said, she held out a hoof to Harmonia.

Harmonia grins finally able to have a friend. At least for a few seconds. Harmonia’s cousin Crystal walked up to the two ponies.

“I didn’t expect you to see you here today Harmonia! I thought you would run away from the school!” Crystal said rudely. Harmonia rolled her eyes and avoided eye contact. Crystal scoffed and looked towards Jewel.

“Come on Jewel. Let’s get away from this loser. She smells like manure” Crystal chuckled. Harmonia raised her head and narrowed her eyes.

“What did you just say!” Harmonia said angrily. Harmonia rose to her hoofs and walked towards her cousin.

“You heard me. Loser. Are you deaf or something?” Crystal replied, flipping her mane from one side to the other. Harmonia growled. She ignites her horn and blasted a dark pink electric storm cloud near Crystal. Crystal screams as she fell to the ground, landing in a mud puddle.

“How dare you!? Why in Equestria would you say that to me!? I can’t believe you!” Harmonia yelled. Jewel placed her hoof on Harmonia, slightly calming her.

“Harmonia stop! Don’t hurt Crystal!” Jewel shouts, before trotted over to Crystal and helped her to her hooves. Harmonia was surprised at this action. Crystal wiped the mud off her hoof in disgust.

“My mother and father will hear about this!” Crystal said, walking away from her. Jewel sadly followed behind her as Harmonia stood there in horror.

***

Harmonia stood in Celestia’s office, she looks at the ground in silents. “Harmonia, do you mind transforming back into your actual self?” Celestia asks, her tone calm. Harmonia nods her head, she ignites her horn and in a puff of raspberry pink smoke she transforms back into herself.

“Harmonia Sparkle. Would you mind telling me what just happened today?” Celestia wonders, her voice slightly stern.

Harmonia shranked back just a little, by the Princesses tone with her. “I...I-” Harmonia stuttered a bit, struggling with her words on even what to say to the Princess.

Celestia raise an eyebrow at the young draconequus, awaiting her answer. However, she looked slightly terrified. Once Harmonia didn't answer, Celestia sighs. “I've been silently observing you, to see how your first day would have gone. And from what I've witnessed , it wasn't as cheerful as I hoped it would be. I let you attend my school to help you with your social skills, help you branch out. But instead I witness fights being broke out.” Said Celestia.

“Princess, please I can explain.” Harmonia said. Celestia stays silent for a while, letting the young draconequus defend herself. “I'm listening.” She said, her tone slightly amused.

“The fight would have never started in the first place if it wasn't for Crystal.” Harmonia said.

“Crystal? Why she is one of my most brights students here.” Said Celestia.

“Your highness, I'm not trying to be rude, but maybe you are being a bit biased here.” Harmonia said. “If you know what Crystal did, you would go punish her instead of me.” She said, she look like she was about to cry.

Celestia’s features softened. “Harmonia, I'm not really punishing you. I'm trying my best to help you.” She said, reassuring Harmonia.

“So, your saying I should give this school a second chance?” Harmonia asks. Celestia smiled gently down at her. “Exactly!” She beams.

Harmonia sighs. “O-Okay, but in all honesty I was just about to unenroll here.” Celestia looks at the tiny draconequus, a confused expression on her face. “Excuse me? Harmonia you know you are five years old and i cannot simply drop you out.” Celestia said.

“You know, I wish you could have told me that half an hour ago, because then I would not have broken into a song about wanting to unenroll.” Harmonia said.

“Wait… when did you break into song?” Celestia wonders, a confused expression mounted on her face.

“Like half an hour ago.” Harmonia said, her tone blunt.

Celestia softly giggles. “I-I was just trying to prove I belong here.” Harmonia said, her ears flattened. Celestia stays silent listening to the small draconquess once again.

“I feel like no matter what I try, I always have to prove that I belong here.” Harmonia said, looking at the Princess her eyes filled with hurt.

“It was only your first day of school, first days are always the hardest to get by. Who knows maybe tomorrow will be better.” Celestia said, giving some encouragement to Harmonia, in her usual motherly tone.

Harmonia thought for a moment. “Maybe you're right I should give this school a second chance.” Said Harmonia, who gave a soft smile before walking out of the room.

“That's what I'd like to hear! Now you can head on back to your class I'd hate for you to be late.” Said Celestia.

Harmonia nodded, she watched as Celestia turned her back to a filing cabinet, using her magic to file away papers. Harmonia took it as her cue to leave.

*

The classes for the rest of the day went by in a blur and now it was time to go home. Twilight and Discord await outside of Celestia’s school for Harmonia. Harmonia appears with a neutral look on her face. “Hey, fuzzball did you have a great day at school?” Discord asks, ruffling his daughters mane.

“C-Can we just go home?” Harmonia asks, her tone sounding slightly low and inaudible, but still loud enough for them to hear.

Discord and Twilight both look at each other for a split second. Twilight looks back down at her daughter. “Sure, sweetie let’s go home.” She said.

***

Dinner at Twilight’s castle was pretty simple. The family say around a table as they ate. Discord usually eats whatever so for dinner tonight, he is eating pillows and chairs that were mixed into a liquid which was poured into a bowl. Twilight was eating vegetable soup as Harmonia was eating chocolate-coated vegetables.

“So Harmonia, how was your first day of school?” Twilight asked her soup as she levitated her spoon into the soup and raised it to her mouth.

“It was good….. I guess?” Harmonia replied, playing with her food.

“You guess? Was everything okay?” Twilight asked, placing her spoon down on the table.

“Everything was fine mommy. I had a good day at school. No big deal…” Harmonia replied. Twilight turned and looked at her husband. Discord was still eating until he finally noticed his wife’s gaze. He gulped down his meal and looked at her confused. Twilight directed her eyes from him to their daughter. It took a minute to figure it out but he got it.

“Um.. sweetie? Did….um… anything happen at….um… school today?” Discord stammered. Harmonia looked up from her food and looked at her father. She did not want to tell her parents about what happened today.

“Uh… no…” Harmonia said, as she stabs her fork into her veggies. “Nothing important.”

Silence fell upon the dining room. “Come on, sweetie something exciting had to have happen out of today.” Twilight said.

“Well, I made a new friend.” Harmonia said.

“That's great news!” Beams Twilight.

“Until I found out she was already friends with somepony else.” Mutters Harmonia, her ears flattened a bit.

Twilight's ears flatten a bit. “Wait… That somepony would not happen to be Crystal... would it?” Discord wonders.

Harmonia nodded her head. “Well I hope you at least did something about it, sweetheart.” He said.

“I did daddy, I blasted an electric storm cloud at her!” Harmonia beams.

“You did what!?” Twilight asks, her eyes widened. “Please tell me you didn't get into trouble with Princess Celestia?” Twilight said, her tone laced with worry.

“Maybe…” Harmonia's voice went slightly high pitched.

Twilight smacks her hoof to her face. “Hey if you ask me, Harmonia was only doing what was right.” Discord said, defending their daughter.

Twilight sighs. “I agree, but still she could have hurt somepony else.” Twilight said.

“I wish it would have been Crystal.” Mutters Harmonia.

“Harmonia! She's your cousin for Celestia sake!” Twilight scolds. “What?! She deserved it! I should have just turned her into a duck like Daddy said. But no I just had to go soft on her.” Harmonia said, rolling her eyes. She had her claw and paw crossing over her chest. “That storm cloud should have zap her a few times.” She thinks the last bit to herself.

Twilight sighed as she rubbed her head with her hooves.

“I-I don’t know what to say Harmonia! Crystal is your cousin! I don’t understand why you would do that! Crystal is a nice pony!” Twilight raised her voice slightly.

“She’s not Mommy! She said that I don't belong at that school! And she's right, I don’t fit into that school Mommy! You know what the worst part is?” Harmonia, chokes on her own tears. “She called me a half breed! She's a racist brat that is never going to accept me for who I am!” Harmonia yelled, tears running down her face. Discord and Twilight gasped and looked at their daughter in horror. Harmonia jumped out of her chair and raced down the hallway. Starlight quickly moves out of the way for Harmonia to pass through.

Twilight sighed. “So much for dinner.” she mutters to herself, as she was clearing the table. Starlight walks into the kitchen. “Twilight? What’s going on? I was practicing a new spell and I just happen to get distracted by a bunch of screaming and yelling.” Starlight wonders.

“It’s nothing Starlight. No need to worry. It’s just that Harmonia is in some trouble right now. I will have a talk with her later.” Twilight said.

“Alright then Twi. You know, you can come to me anytime right? I’m always here for you.” Starlight said as she patted her friend’s shoulder.

“Thank you, Starlight.” Twilight said.

****

Twilight’s castle was dead silent for the night. And she couldn’t help, but feel that something was wrong. Twilight curled up on her bed, thinking about what she is going to say to her daughter. Discord poofed into the room, wearing a yellow robe and drinking from a coffee cup that said: CHAOS FOR LIFE!

“Hello honey! Care for a cup of Joe?” He said as he made a cup of coffee appear in front of her.

“No thanks Discord. Thank you for the offer though.” She said as she stared at the floor of their bedroom. Discord sighed as he sat next to her.

“Are you thinking about our daughter? I know she got in trouble but let’s think of it as a good thing! She learned her lesson and we both know that she won’t do it again!” Discord assures Twilight.

Twilight was about to protest, but a different voice spoke up.

“Perhaps I could help?” Twilight and Discord looked to the door to see Twilight’s royal guard Tempest at the doorway.

“Forgive me Princess Twilight for intruding like this, but I can go check up on your daughter. I think I have something that can help her understand what she has done wrong.” Tempest asked. Twilight and Discord looked at each other and back at Tempest.

“Well…. okay then. If you want to, that is.” Twilight said with a smile. Tempest smiles back and nodded as she walked away and closed the door behind her.

“You think reformed Berry Horse will know what she’s gonna say?” Discord asked Twilight. Twilight giggled as she wrap her hooves around his neck.

“I’m sure. I know Tempest. I know that she will talk to our fluffball.” Twilight said her tone assuring.

***

Harmonia lays down in her bed, curled up into a tiny ball. She cries softly into her fur. Tempest watches for a moment, a sad expression etched onto her face. Feeling sorry for the filly-er tiny draconequus, Tempest knocks on the panel of Harmonia’s door frame. Harmonia’s ears pricked up at the sudden sound, she really hope it was Discord, but instead she got a different visitor.

“Harmonia? Can I come in? I need to talk to you.” Tempest said carefully, trying to not make the young pony-draconequus more upset. Harmonia knew that voice and slightly groaned. Tempest opened the door and poked her head through it.

“Harmonia? Are you here?” Tempest asked as she looked around the room. She stopped the little gray ball on the bed and slightly chuckled. Tempest went over to the bed, levitated a pillow and smacked it against Harmonia. Harmonia snorted with laughter and but her smile faded as she saw the look on Tempest’s face wasn’t what she had expected. Harmonia looked away from Tempest as she sat on her bed.

“You know.. I was like you once. Different from other ponies. I once led an army that destroyed Canterlot. But your mom taught me that I needed Friendship and that she was there for me. Anger isn’t the way to solve your problems. Trust me; I know. But you can’t change who you are. You are you. And being you is truly wonderful.” Tempest lifted Harmonia’s chin. Harmonia hugged Tempest giving her a bit of a shock but she hugged back. Starlight smiled as she watched the pair hugged through the doorway.

“Thank you Tempest. You are a great friend!” Harmonia said, happily. Tempest smiled and walked towards the door. She closed it and was met face to face with Starlight.

“You know, that was a nice speech you gave Harmonia. Probably better than what I could’ve given her!” Starlight giggled.

“Well, I tried. I am still learning how to make friends and I’m glad that I am friends with you and Twilight.” Tempest smiled.

“Well, you still did a great job for your first time! I think Twilight and Discord would be proud of you.” Starlight said to Tempest, smiling at the pastel pink-lavender unicorn.

“I was just doing what anypony else would.” Tempest said, her tone modest. Starlight yawns. “Well, goodnight Tempest.” Starlight said, turning in for the night.

“Goodnight, Starlight.” Tempest said.

*

Elsewhere a pair of glowing white eyes, was watching them from the distance, before returning back to wherever they came from.

Chapter 13

Chapter 13: Crushes and Nightmare Fuel

Celestia’s POV:

The moon shimmered over head, Celestia was still awake at this dawning hour of the night. The sun princess had a lot on her mind tonight, she just couldn't shake whatever she was thinking about from her thoughts. She groans, not really wanting to get up from her comfortable position in bed, but if it will help her take her mind off of this then she will be more than happy to oblige.

She sighs. “Maybe a glass of water would help.” She thought to herself. Celestia gets up, making her way down the long hallway. Silence fills the void, the only sound was her hooves making contact with the title floor. As well as her thoughts.

Why was she even thinking this mess in the first place. Celestia shook her head as she groggily made her way to the kitchen sink. Once she reached the kitchen, she uses her magic aura to let the cool running water flow from the faucet. She then levitates the glass to her lips.

“Sister,” Luna’s calming voice startled Celestia. Celestia slightly jumped. She turned around to see that it was her younger sister. She forgot that Luna normally stays up a little late even after her duties where done for the night.

“What are you doing up this late?” Luna wonders. Celestia sighs sitting her cup down on a nearby table. “I can't sleep.” She said.

Luna stays silent for a moment. “Well, is there something troubling you?” Luna asks, a concerned look was displayed on her face. The only light that was coming from the kitchen window was Luna’s bright white moon. Celestia sighs. “I-I’m not sure… here lately I haven't been able to eat, sleep or even think straight-”

“Ooo,” Luna swoons. Luna then, goes into a child-like singing voice. “Tia’s in love, Tia's in love.”

Celestia looks at her sister her eyes narrowed slightly. “So, who's the lucky stallion.” Luna asks, still happy for her sister, however Celestia felt slightly uncomfortable saying his name.

Celestia stays quiet for a moment. “What? I'm not going to judge you.” Luna said. “So come on, tell me.” Luna begs, her sister.

Celestia bit the inside of her cheek, she then sighs. “It's… Discord.” Luna's joyful grin falters. “Wait…. What?” Luna said, her tone slightly monotonous.

“I thought you said you wasn't going to judge?!” Celestia asks. “I-I'm not, it's just-” Luna pauses thinking of how to rephrase this to her sister. “Sister, you know Discord is married to Twilight. Their wedding was five years ago, are you still not over it?” Luna wonders.

Celestia thought for a moment. “Well of course not!” She snaps. Luna flinches a bit from Celestia sudden reaction. “Sorry Luna, it's just when I saw Twilight and Discord at the schoolhouse yesterday to drop off their daughter. I just could not help, but feel I don't know how to describe it really-”

“Jealous?” Luna wonders.

“You could say that. I just imagine of one day having my own family with him. ” Celestia said. “ Besides, we have had more history with Discord than Twilight has. Luna, you and I both know that! Why do I always have to be the one who is unhappy?” Celestia stomps her hoof to the ground.

“I never should have introduced those two at The Grand Galloping Gala that we had three years ago. Maybe things would have been different now.” Celestia clenched her teeth, tears pricks at the corner of her eyes.

“Tia, you can't go back in time and change what's already been done now. All you can do is move on.” Luna explains.

“I know, It's just-” Celestia sighs, she levitates the glass of water to her lips before sitting it back down. “when both Discord and I were just little kids, we did everything together we were practically inseparable.”

*

Castle Of The Two Sister 100 B.C.R (Before Celestia Ruled)

The small garden of the Castle Of The Two Sisters, the garden was accompanied by two small fillies. One with light blue short mane and the other was a bit taller than her, but she had a light pink mane and white coat. Their names were Celestia and Luna.

Both of the filly's giggle as they were playing Hide-and-seek. “Okay, Luna it's your turn to seek.” A young Celestia said.

“But, I'm always having to find you.” Wines a Young Luna.

“Hey it's not my fault I'm so good at hiding.” Celestia, sticks out her tongue.

Luna rolls her eyes, huffing. “Fine, but after this it's my turn to hide. Got it?” Luna said.

Celestia nods and wonders off for a hiding place.

“One… Two…. Five….” Luna said, trying her best to count.

Celestia wonders off on the other side of the garden. She hides in one of the sculptured bushes. “She'll never find me here.” Mumbles Celestia, mostly to herself.

“Ready or not here I come!” Announces Luna.

Celestia stays quiet for the next thirty-five minutes. The only sound she could hear was her own breathing. “How long does it take her to find me?” Wonders Celestia.

“Your telling me.” Said another voice.

Celestia eyes widen. “Wh-Who’s there?” Calls out Celestia.

“It's just me.” Me said. Then a pair of tiny glowing yellow eyes with red iris appear.

Celestia screams and stumbled out of her hiding place.

“Found you!” Luna announced, once she spotted her sister. Celestia however was as white as a ghost. “Sister, are you okay?” She wonders.

“T-There’s somepony in there.” Celestia points a shaking hoof over to the bush that she was just hiding in.

“What are you talking about there's nopony there.” Luna said, waving her small hoof at the bush.

“Actually, yes there is.” Said the same voice again, this time it appeared out of hiding.

This time it was Luna's turn to scream. “I'm not going to hurt you, I promise!” Said the tiny creature. “Look what I can do.” The tiny creature snaps his claws as a small pink thundercloud appears, raining chocolate milk rain. He then made a glass appear for himself, filling it up. “Care for some chocolate milk?” He offers.

The girls shook their heads, still clearly shocked at his rather unusual appearance. “Who are you?” Celestia wonders.

“What are you? And what's your name?” Luna wonders.

The tiny creature laughed slightly at the two sisters curiosity. “My name's Discord and I'm a draconequus.” He beams. “And who may you two be?” He wonders.

“Well I'm Luna and this is my sister Celestia. One day we are going to rule Equestria.” Luna brags.

“So, you are Princesses?” Discord wonders. Celestia nods.

(Voice over) “I'm taking it that this backstory is going to take awhile?” Luna wonders.

“Yep.” Celestia said.

“Want some cake while you tell the rest of it?” Luna wonders.

“Eh sure.” Celestia mutters.

*

“So where are you from?” Celestia wonders.

“Well I came from the caves up in the Northern mountain.” Discord explains.

“Where's your mommy and daddy?” Luna wonders.

“Luna, that's a bit too nosy even for me.” Celestia scolded her younger sibling.

“It's okay really, and they left…. I'm honestly not sure where they are.” Discord mumbles.

“Awe that's so sad.” Luna said, her eyes watering slightly.

“Hey, I have an idea! You can live with us!” Beams Celestia.

“Are you sure that's a good idea?” Wonders Luna.

“Shh, Luna be nice.” Mutters Celestia.

(Voice Over) “Over the years, as we grew up. We became close like two inseparable best friends. He was there for me when no one else was, when you were banished to the moon.” Celestia explains.

100 years A.L.B (After Luna's Banishment)

“It's okay, Tia. She will come back.” Said Discord.

“And when will that be, Discord?” Celestia asks, still crying.

“Soon, but don't worry you still got me.” Discord said, grinning.

Celestia wipes away her tears. “T-Thanks, but I really wipes away her tears. “ I just really wish I didn't have to use The Elements of Harmony against her.” Celestia said, gazing down at the dull jewels.

“You did what you had to do to save your future kingdom.” Discord explains.

“But it's no use everypony will soon leave me, once I decide to take the throne in Canterlot, even you.” Celestia mutters.

(VoiceOver) “Did you ever tell him?” Luna wonders.

“Yes and no. I mean it was a Fillyhood crush it doesn't exactly mean anything.” Explained Celestia.

*

(Back to present)

“But if he left you after he took the throne, did he ever tell you how he felt?” Wonders Luna, placing her plate in the sink.

Celestia sighs. “Never got the chance to.” Celestia places her fork in her cake. “I wish things were different. I wish I told him while I had the chance too.” Luna sighed and walked over to her sister.

“Well, If you ask me it is both of your faults. You both had miss opportunities.” Luna said. “Like I said, it was a Fillyhood crush, Luna. Fillyhood crushes means nothing.” Celestia explains.

“Well it obviously means something to you.” Mutters Luna.

Celestia sighs. “Whatever, it's in the past. What's done is done now and nothing can be changed.” She said.

Luna stays silent for a moment. “Besides it's not like he still feels the same way.” Celestia mutters.

Luna thought for a moment. “Hey, you never know how somepony feels about you if you ask.” Luna said, nonchalantly.

“That's exactly what I'm going to do.” Celestia beams.

“Sister, I-I was just joking your not seriously going to ask him. Besides him and Twilight are hardly ever away from each other.” Luna explains, warning here sister.

“I'm sure she will have a something important to go to here in the next few weeks.” Celestia said, her tone nonchalant.

“Well, I wish you good luck in your achievement… That's if you don't get caught.” Luna said.

Celestia slightly giggles. “Believe me, I have my ways of getting what I want.”

Luna rolls her eyes. “Well, I'm going to bed. Goodnight.” She said, yawning.

Celestia in return yawns. “Same. Goodnight sister.” She watched as Luna heads back into her bed chambers.

Celestia then turns back to her attention to the dirty plates that her and Luna had. She quickly washes the two before, heading to bed, but before she heads to bed she makes a quick stop to the throne room.

She gazes upon the throne, thinking to herself. "He used to mine." she mutters to herself, looking up at the stain glass window of Twilight and Discord's wedding that was five years ago.

"One day." She thought to herself. She softly sighs before turning in for the night.

***

Meanwhile….

Twilight's ears flickered, she thought she heard tiny muffled screams. At first she ignored the sound, but it seem to get louder, followed by crying.

“Okay, this time I know I'm not hearing things.” Twilight said, mostly to herself. She slowly sits up in the bed, adjusting her vision to the dark. The crying still continuing. “Harmonia!” Twilight thoughts finally registered with her. Twilight raced out of bed, not caring at the moment if she woke her husband or not. “Hold on sweetie I'm coming!” Twilight calls out, galloping her way down the hallway.

The crying still continued. Twilight skids to a stop, slightly out of breath once she reached Harmonia’s door. She didn't bother to knock, she just instantly barges into her room. She cuts on her daughter's bedside lamp to reveal a frighten and scared Harmonia who had tears streaming down her tiny face. “Harmonia what's wrong, sweetheart.” Twilight asks, clearly worried for her daughter. Harmonia breathing was raggedy, as if she couldn't process what just happened.

Discord appearance 20 minutes later, with a five foot Discord lamp stand. “Who broke into the castle!” Discord wonders, he look like he was about to swing at whoever it was.

Twilight and Harmonia both stare blankly at the draconequus for a second. “What?!” He asks.

Twilight was slightly speechless at her husband's antics at this late hour of the night. “I-Wh-S-So if somepony broke into the house, your weapon of self defensive would be a lamp stand?” Twilight questions.

“If you hit them over the head hard enough then yes. What? Would you had prefer a bat instead?” He poofs away the lamp stand and replaces it with a bat.

Twilight just smacks her hoof to her face, before turning her attention back to Harmonia. “Sweetie, why are you crying and look like you seen a ghost.” Twilight tone was soft and motherly like.

“I'm sorry for waking you up, mommy. B-But-” Harmonia voice goes raggedy once more.

“But what is fuzzball?” Discord asks, trying to get a answer out of their daughter. Harmonia tries to choke back her tears, but she couldn't hold it in. “I had a bad dream.” She sobs into Twilight's fur. Twilight softly strokes her daughter's mane.

She lifts her daughters chin up to meet her eyes. Harmonia's eyes was still filled with tears, as the silently stream down her face. “Would you like to tell Mommy and Daddy what the dream was about?” Twilight asks, her tone warm and soft.

Harmonia shook her head. “That bad, huh?” Discord wonders. Harmonia nods her head. “Mhm…” she mutters.

Twilight sighs, rising from the bed. She kisses her daughter on the top of the head. “Well we can talk about this in the morning, if you would like to. In the meantime, you need to try and get some more sleep.” Said Twilight.

She walks out of the room, but stops shortly. Twilight loves her daughter she truly does, but she feels that their daughter was more attached to Discord than her from time to time. Twilight calmly listens to the two have their daddy-daughter moment or what Discord likes to call “being nosy”.

“Daddy?” Harmonia said.

“Yes fuzzball?” Discord asks. “Do you really love mommy?” Harmonia questions.

Discord furrows his eyebrows. “Well of course I love your mother. Why would you ask such a thing?” Discord wonders.

“Because…” Harmonia pauses, “in my dream…. I had a dream t-that you left me and mommy.” Harmonia whimpers, tears trickle down her cheeks. Discord heart broke at the sound of this, as did Twilight.

Twilight couldn't help, but walk in this time. “Wait-you had a dream that Daddy left you and I?” Twilight wonders.

Harmonia nods. “Yeah.”

“You were “being nosy” again wasn't you?” Discord asks, a playful smile played on his lips, but Twilight could only reply back with guilty grim expression.

“Honey, you know that would never happen! I care about you girls too much to ever even consider leaving you.” Discord explains.

“Promise?” Harmonia asks. “Promise.” He then intertwines his pinkie claw with his daughter's claw.

“Now you better get some more sleep. Your Aunt Rarity is suppose to be stopping by later on today. She has some important business in Manehatten that she has to attend, so she asked if we would watch her daughter for the day.” Twilight explains.

“Who's her daughter?” Wonders Harmonia.

Twilight giggles. “You'll see in the morning, but if you would like to know her name. She goes by the name Ophelia.” She said.

Harmonia scrunched her muzzle at the name. “She sounds like another one of those high society ponies that goes to Princess Celestia’s school.”

“Oh, I wouldn't be so quick to judge.” Twilight teases.

“Why?” Harmonia cocks her tiny head to the side, confused.

Twilight giggles. “You'll see soon. Now goodnight.” Twilight gave her daughter one final kiss and walks out of the room, followed by Discord.

Twilight and Discord sink softly into the covers, but Twilight couldn't help but think: Was what Harmonia thinking about, all just a dream or a vision bound to happen?

Chapter 14

Chapter 14: Prank Wars & Con-Artists

“Thank you ever so much, darling for watching Ophelia for me while I run out to judge a fashion show in Manehattan.” Said Rarity.

“No problem, Rarity.” Said Twilight.

Behind Rarity, was a slightly shy little kitten. She had brown, black and orange spots. She was clearly a tabby cat with baby blue eyes and a purple mane like her mother's.

“But mother I want to go with you.” Whines Ophelia.

“Ophelia, darling. I told you this is big girls stuff. Your Aunt Twilight will take good care of you. Besides she even has a daughter around your age.” Rarity said, stroking her daughter's mane.

“That doesn't sound reassuring.” She whimpers.

“Well, if you want to Ophelia. You can go to Harmonia room, she should be in there.” Twilight said assuring the little kitten that everything was going to be okay.

“Well, I do not know no Harmonia and as you can see I am not moving from this spot.” Huffs Ophelia. She clutches tighter onto Rarity's tail.

“Hmhp. I can see where she took the dramatics from.” Mutters Discord.

Twilight elbows her husband. “Discord, be nice.” Mutters Twilight.

“Its okay Twilight.” Rarity said, looking at her friend before looking down at her daughter. “Sweetie, I'm running as late as it is.” Said Rarity, she pulls out a pocket watch.

“I'm already thirty minutes behind. Now please stop being so dramatic and stubborn.” Rarity pleads. She then makes the pocket watch vanish.

“It's okay Rarity, I can just call Harmonia down stairs.” Twilight gave a small smile to her friend.

“Harmonia, you have a visitor!” Twilight calls out. A few minutes late Harmonia shout back: “Okay! I'll be down in a few.”

A few minutes later in a puff a raspberry pink smoke, came the small draconequus. “Aunt Rarity!” Harmonia said, her tone full of excitement as she hugs her aunt. “Hello Harmonia dear.” Greets Rarity who wraps her hoof around her niece's neck.

Harmonia then turns her attention back to her mom. “So mommy, where's the visitor at exactly?” She questions.

Twilight points a hoof to Rarity's tail, giggling. “She is right there.”

Harmonia looks slightly confused at first. “But all I see is Aunt Rarity's tail.” she said.

Rarity uses her magic to lift her tail. Behind it, hides the mysterious visitor. “You are not normally this shy around other ponies.” Rarity says, trying to recall a time when her daughter was ever this shy around anyone.

Harmonia looked a bit confused. “How can a pony have a cat for a daughter?” She asks out loud.

“Harmonia! It's rude to ask a question like that!” Scolds Twilight.

“The same reason a pony can have a whatever you are for a daughter.” Sasses Ophelia.

Harmonia eyes went wide. “I'm a draconequus.” She said, her tone flat.

“Well yeah, that.” She snaps, smirking back at the tiny draconequus.

Twilight and Rarity looks at their daughters, stunned. Discord on the other hand was laughing. “Well I can clearly see where they get their sassiness from.” He said, still laughing.

Twilight and Rarity look at him, unamused for a moment before laughing along with him. They looked down at their daughters, paying attention to their next move.

“You know, your sassy I like you already!” Harmonia beams.

“Wonderful! They're friends already!” Twilight beams.

“Huh. I shouldn't have doubted you.” Discord said, stroking his goat-tee.

“Thanks! Wait, you doubted me?” Twilight questions her husband.

Rarity breathes a sigh of relief. “Well, thank you once again. If I'm not back before 8, then Capper will be by later to pick her up.” Rarity notified the two.

Twilight nods. “Alright, Rarity well let me walk you out.” Twilight follows Rarity to the door.

“Come on! I can show you my room.” Harmonia said, gleefully looking at Ophelia.

Ophelia thinks for a moment, before reluctantly agreeing to herself to follow the tiny draconequus.

*
Harmonia throws open the doors to her bedroom. It's a bit untidy, she normally leaves her room in a much cleaner state than this. “This is my room! Sorry if it's a bit untidy.” Harmonia said, sounding a bit sheepish.

Toys, books, and a few scrolls here and there scatters the bedroom floor. The only place that was semi-clean was the bed. “It's fine, really.” Ophelia said, making her way to Harmonia's bed. She sits down on her bed in a cat like position. “You know I never met somepony- you do use that word correct?” Ophelia asks.

Harmonia nods. “Anyways, like I said I've never met somepony who was different like me.” Ophelia said.

“You don't go to school around here do you?” Harmonia questions her new friend.

“Sadly, no. I'm originally from Klugetown, which is where my father is from. Once the streets there decided to have robbers, fights and con-artists. My mother decided that it was time for us to move here, along with my father of course.” Ophelia explains.

“I'm sorry to hear that you had to go through that.” Harmonia mumbles.

“It's fine really!” Ophelia said. “I sometimes miss my hometown, however.” Ophelia starts to paw at her necklace.

“What’s with your necklace?” Harmonia asks.

“Hmh?” Ophelia questions, she didn't notice that she was pawing at it for a good five minutes. “Oh! My necklace? It just has a picture of my friends and I from Klugetown on the right side and on the left side is a picture of my mother and father.” Ophelia uses her magic to open the locket.

Which displays the pictures of her exact description. Ophelia then closes it. “I… really miss my friends.” She gives Harmonia her widen kitten eyes. She looked like she was about to cry.

“Well I like you for you.” Harmonia said, smiling at the kitten.

Ophelia gave Harmonia a confused expression.

Harmonia giggles. “Not in that way! How about we change the subject then, uh…” Harmonia thought for a moment. “Where do you go to school at since I haven't seen you around here before?” She asks.

“I go to Madam Spoil Riches Preparatory Elites School. It's somewhere in Canterlot.” Ophelia explains.She silently scans the room, until her eyes land on something shiny that was laying on top of Harmonia's white dresser. She mentally smirks to herself.

“Hey, Harmonia! Would you like to have a sleepover at my house?” Ophelia asks.

Harmonia eyes grew wide, with excitement. “Really?” She wonders. “Of course!” Ophelia beams.

“Sure! Let me go and ask my mommy real fast.” Harmonia then poofs out of the room, leaving Ophelia all alone.

Ophelia waits for a second before slowly getting up from the bed and making her way over to Harmonia dresser. Her eyes lands upon a tiny mountain mix of gold and silver jewelry. “Oooo, aren't you just a hunk of a diamond! I am taking it that you weigh what about 10K?” Ophelia said, trying on one of Harmonia's many rings.

She continues to play within the mountain of jewelry. Even decided to snag a few for herself. “I doubt she would even miss these.” Ophelia said, out loud, but mainly to no pony in particular. She poofs in a dark purple satchel with golden swirls designs, it was mediocre sized but was big enough to store a few rings and maybe at least four necklaces.

Harmonia quickly poofs back in, excited to tell Ophelia the news. But her giddiness stopped short when she saw what was in front of her.

“Oooo, she's stealing!” Harmonia shouts. Ophelia dove for Harmonia, covering her mouth. “Shh! You're going to get me busted!” Ophelia hisses.

“Good! That's what I'm planning on doing.” Harmonia snaps.

“But I thought we were friends?” Ophelia asks, her tone innocent.

“We are! I think, but friends do not steal from other friends. Now if you'll excuse me…. Momm-” Harmonia tries to shouts, but Ophelia places her paw back over her friends mouth.

Ophelia whispers a song into the draconequus ears:

“Shhh….
I'm the friend that you need
When you're lost and don't know what to do
I'm your pal, your amigo
Useful and resourceful too!
And my help, you'll concede
Is a -”

Harmonia looked unamused by the charming cats silky singing voice. She tries to say something, but the devious kitten still had her paw over her mouth. “What did you say?” Ophelia asks, her tone innocent.

Harmonia removes Ophelia paw from her mouth. “Bleh! Cat fur! I said: “You know that song has already been done, plus it's not even that hyponic anymore.” Harmonia said.

Ophelia let's go of Harmonia. “So, you were saying something about the sleepover?” Ophelia said, trying to brush off the problem that just happened. As if that moment just disappears into thin air.

Harmonia scrunched her muzzle. “Don't try to change the subject around!” Scolds Harmonia.

“Come on, Harmony lighten up a bit.” Ophelia said, nudging her new friend playfully.

“It's Harmonia.” Harmonia corrected, her teeth clenched slightly. “Look, Harmony, darling. If you haven't noticed by now I'm what you call a flirt and con artist.” Ophelia says, her tone sweetly bitter.

“I think I've taken the word “con artist” into account.” Harmonia said, jestering to Ophelia purple and gold satuel, which still remained packed with Harmonia's jewelry.

Ophelia's ears flatten. “Sorry, I guess I'm trying to get use to the whole friendship thing.” Ophelia places the jewelry back on Harmonia's dresser.

Harmonia notices that she was taking the ring off. A part of her wanted to hold a grudge against the sly cat and another part wanted her to feel sorry for her.

“Why must friendship be so complicated?” Harmonia thought to herself.

She sighs. “You can keep the ring.” Harmonia smiles at the cat.

“Even after I tried swindling you, you still want me to keep something of yours?” Ophelia asks, slightly confused by this odd draconequus behavior.

Harmonia giggles at the look on Ophelia's face. “It’s called a sign of friendship.” she said.

“W-well thank you.” Ophelia was slightly baffled by this kind gesture.

“Your welcome!” Beams Harmonia.

There was a light knock at the door, it creeks open to reveal Twilight with a plate of cookies. “Hey girls I just came in to check on you, and to bring you cookies.” She offers the plate of cookies to the girls.

“Oh we're doing great mommy!” Beams Harmonia.

“Well, you dad ran out to get some more milk, he should be back in a few however.” Smiles Twilight.

“Oh, alright.” Said Harmonia. “Just tell me when he comes I have to ask him something.”

Twilight looks slightly confused. “Oh, okay.” She said.

With that Twilight walks out of the room.

“So what was it that you had to ask your father?” Ophelia questions.

“You'll know soon enough.” Harmonia smirks. “Now come on, these cookies are not going to eat themselves.” Harmonia grabs a cookie and pops it into her mouth.

30 mins later

“Harmonia! Your dad is back!” Twilight calls out.

Discord looks at his wife. “Uh? I am in some sort of trouble or something?” Discord wonders.

“I have no clue, but Harmonia had to ask you something personally.” Twilight said.

A perplexed look displayed on Discord's face. Before Harmonia poofs into the room. “Daddy!” Harmonia hugs her Discord. “Your back, about time too.” She then quickly poof Discord into her room.

“Okay! Well just leave me here then.” Huffs Twilight. She opens her book and begins reading.

***

“You remember what we talked about, right daddy?” Harmonia asks, giddy.

Discord had a perplexed look on his face. “Remember…. The prank we was going to pull on mommy.” she giggles.

“Oh yeah! The “White Mane” prank!” Discord said, suddenly remembering.

“How often do you guys do this, exactly?” Ophelia interrupts their father daughter bonding.

Discord almost forgotten that Rarity's daughter was still there. “Oh, I thought you would have been gone by now.” he said, his tone nonchalant.

“Well clearly I'm not!” Sassy's the tiny tabby cat.

Discord rolls his eyes, turning his full attention back to his daughter. “So do you have everything that you need?” he asks.

“Yep! Got the mane dryer and white powders.” Harmonia said,poofing in Twilight's belongs.

Discord gives her instructions on what to do next. “.... Now go and place this back in the bathroom exactly like she had it.” he said, explaining it carefully to her.

Harmonia nods and poofs into the bathroom. She hears the sound of rushing water from the shower head, her and Discord's prank plan fell into place.

Harmonia poofs back into her room. “Mommy is taking a shower right now.”

“Perfect.” He said.

*

Twilight steps out of the shower, her mane and tail dripping wet. She wraps herself around in the bathrobe. She grabs her mane-dryer and plugs it in.

She relaxes, closing her eyes, humming to herself. She lets her magic aura turn the dryer on.

A white clouded puff blows out of the dryer covering Twilight's mane and face. She coughs trying to clear the cloud of white.

“Discord!” She yells out still coughing.

She poofs out of the room, and into Harmonia's room where she could hear the laughter of two draconequus.

Twilight on the other hoof, was slightly peeved. “Come on honey, you have to admit it was hilarious!” Discord said, still laughing.

Harmonia's laughter followed, Ophelia snickers a bit. “You think this is funny? Okay, well you missy are grounded for a week.” she said.

Harmonia stopped laughing looking at her mother. She has never been in trouble with her mother before.

“She couldn't have done this alone so I'm assuming she had help.” Twilight said, her voice deadpanned, serious. Her eyes narrowed to Discord.

“And you're sleeping on the couch for a week.” She said, looking at Discord.

Discord stopped laughing. “But, sweetheart-”

“Don't sweetheart me.” Snaps Twilight. “You two should-”

There was a knock at the door. “We will finish this discussion later.” Twilight said, her voice stern. She quickly wraps her mane in a towel, then turns to leave. Discord, Harmonia and Ophelia, carefully but slowly following behind her.

Twilight opens the castle doors to reveal Capper and Rarity.

“Sorry we're a bit late your highness, I assume that Dutchess did not give you any trouble tonight.” Capper said, his tone sincere.

“Father, you know I hate that name.” Groans Ophelia.

“Not at all, she was a real pleasure to have.” grins Twilight.

Capper took Twilight hoof into his paw. “Hey buddy, keep your paws to yourself!” hisses Discord.

“Rarity you better get your husband.” Discord warns

“Sorry! I was just trying to be friendly.” Soothe Capper.

“A bit too friendly if you ask me.” Grumbles Discord.

Twilight rolls her eyes. “Don't mind him. He's just cranky because he has to sleep on the couch.” Twilight said, bluntly.

“Why darling?” Rarity asks.

“To make a long story short, my mane is now white.” Complains Twilight.

“Oh dear!” Rarity said, her eyes wide as she gazes at her friends mane. “The towel is off, isn't it?” Twilight asks, her tone blunt, unamused.

“Yeah…” Capper said, his tone awkward.

Twilight grumbled to herself as Ophelia brushed up against her mother’s leg.

“Well, it’s best that we get going. I have prepared a divine meal for the three of us to enjoy” Rarity giggled. Twilight, Discord and Harmonia said their goodbyes. Twilight closed the castle and turned to see her daughter and husband sneaking away.

“I’m not done with you two yet!” Twilight called out. Harmonia and Discord cringed and slowly turned around. Twilight trotted towards them, her eyes narrowed.

“What you two did wasn’t a nice prank. I could’ve gotten hurt.” she scolds.

Harmonia gave a confusing look to her mother. “Um how?” her tone, blunt.

“I could’ve gotten hurt Harmonia! That powder could have gotten me in the eye! I would have been walking around blind by that! What if I tripped over? What if I broke a hoof? There are many consequences for your prank!” Scolds Twilight.

Harmonia looked unamused by her mother's scolding.

“You're making such a big deal out of it….” Harmonia mutters, her tone slightly harsh.

Twilight eyes went wide at her daughter's behavior.

Discord looked between the two. “Great! You did it now fuzzball!” He mutters to his daughter.

“I'm not going to snap. I'm not going to snap.” Twilight mutters to herself.

Twilight sighed as she collected her thoughts.

“Look, what you both did wasn’t nice to me. So, Discord, You are sleeping on the couch tonight. Harmonia, you are grounded for three days; that means no friends over. Understand?” Twilight's tone was full of authority.

“3 days?!” Harmonia asks.

“Would you rather have the week then?” Twilight asks, her eyes narrowed.

Harmonia stays silent. “Judging by your silence I'm taking it that you want three days.” Twilight tone sounded cold and stern.

The young draconquus flinches at her mother's tone. “Now, go to your room.” She said.

Harmonia stalks off to her room. “And if I hear that door slam it will be two weeks!” Twilight calls out.

Harmonia was already in enough trouble as it was, she did not wish to see her mother even more angry with her.

She now realizes why nopony wishes to get on her mom’s bad side.

The Next Morning…

“Get your things ready, I'm taking you to school this morning.” Twilight said, her tone icy and monotonous towards Harmonia.

“You still can't be angry at us, Twilight.” Discord said.

Twilight only rolled her eyes in response. “Please don't give us the silent treatment, mommy.” Harmonia begs.

Twilight only response was: walking out of her castle.

Discord has seen Twilight upset, stressed or even in panic mode, but never this infuriating at them.

*

On the walk to school, Harmonia and Twilight remain silent for half the walk. “Mommy can you please talk to me.” Harmonia begs.

Twilight in return says nothing, but gives her daughter a side glance. “I'm afraid I have nothing to say.” Twilight's tone was bitter.

Harmonia sighs. “Fine, Just listen to me.” Harmonia pleads, her tone sincere.

“I am sorry. I didn't mean to try to hurt you.”

Twilight's ears pricks up at the sound. “What did you say?” Twilight let's her guard down a little.

“I said I was sorry-” Twilight stops her daughter from talking and pulls her into a hug.

“What is this for?” Asks Harmonia.

“That is all I wanted to hear out of you. And I'm sorry too. I may have went a little overboard with your punishment, but I know you meant no harm. However, you know I have told you time and time again about pranking others.” Twilight explains.

“One day it will backfire on you. If you don't believe me, just ask your Aunt Rainbow Dash about a prank she pulled back when she was younger.” Twilight said, remembering the prank that she and all of Ponyville got into.

“What happened?” Harmonia questions.

“That's a story for another time,” Twilight said. “Remind me to tell it to you after school. Both you and your father.”

Twilight stops right in front of Celestia's school. “I'll see you after school. Bye I love you.” Twilight kisses the top of Harmonia's head.

Celestia steps aside to let students pass by, including Harmonia. Twilight turns to leave, getting half way down the dirt path when Celestia calls out to her.

“Twilight! I have been meaning to speak with you! Do you mind coming in for a moment?” Celestia asks.

Twilight's eyes widen. “Sweet Celestia what did you do this time Harmonia?” Twilight thought to herself.

Chapter 15

Chapter 15: What's Wrong With Being Confident?

Twilight walks into the small office with Celestia. “Celestia, if this is about Harmonia's behavior in school I will straighten her out once we get home.” Twilight explains.

Celestia giggles. “Nonsense Twilight. Harmonia is not in trouble this time.” Celestia said, her tone nonchalantly.

“Wait...what?” Twilight questions, slightly confused.

“I actually came to talk to you about Harmonia.” Celestia explains.

Twilight stayed silent still slightly confused, by what her former mentor was trying to explain.

Celestia continues. “I have been observing Harmonia's behavior these past few months. She is doing extremely well!”

***

Harmonia sits outside under a shade tree keeping away from the other fillies and colts. She decided that she wanted to be alone for the day so that she could practice her magic.

“Just concentrate.” Harmonia thought to herself.

She ignites her horn, trying to turn her orange into an apple.

“I almost got it.” Harmonia mumbles to herself. She breathes a sigh of relief, trying to get back to practicing.

Until she heard somepony shouting, she lost concentration. She opens her eyes to see a young colt, the same colt she saw on her first day coming here, get bully by some mare she has never seen before.

She hears a swishing sound in front of her. It was Crystal, who snatches her orange up. “Hey! Give that back!” Whines Harmonia.

Crystal only made a slight stuck up sound, scoffing at her cousin. Harmonia snatchs the orange back from her cousin and begins walking away.

“Why are you leaving? Scared of being humiliated?” Crystal calls out, she had a smirk played onto her muzzle.

Harmonia stops and turns around. “Humiliated? By who?” Harmonia questions, her muzzle scrunched slightly.

“Mystic!” Crystal calls over the mare.

The mare, who Harmonia assume was Mystic- trots over to where the two were standing at. Mystic had a white coat- similar to Crystal, but Mystic had a dirty blonde mane mixed with light blonde following by a few light blue streaks. Her cutie mark resemble a wand and of course like everypony here she was a unicorn.

“Yes?” The unicorn had a perplexed look on her face. Harmonia could tell she was from Canterlot, every mare or stallion that came from Canterlot was always stuck up.

Crystal said nothing, but shifts her eyes over to Harmonia. Mystic gasps. “Is this the mare you have been telling me about?” Mystic asks.

Crystal nodded. “Of course.” Crystal mutters.

“Oh I've been waiting a long time to finish you.” Mystic smirks.

Harmonia looks at this mare with a bewildering expression on her face. “Hold up! Finish me? I-I don't even know who you are!” Harmonia said. “This mare is obviously crazy.” Harmonia thought to herself.

“Are you the daughter of Princess Twilight Sparkle.” Mystic asks.

“C-can I just lie and say no.” Harmonia asks. She really did not want to pick a fight today, she just got back on everypony good side again.

“I'm afraid that's out of the question.” Mystic smirks. She fires her horn and blasts it at Harmonia.

Harmonia moves out of the way. “Look I really don't want to fight. Besides, I barely even know you, but you seem like a nice filly.” Harmonia said, trying to reason with this crazy young mare.

“Let's just say our mothers have a bit of history together.” Mystic said, circling around Harmonia.

Harmonia got on all four keeping her distance from Mystic, but proceeds to circle around her.

“I don't even know who your mother is.” Harmonia said.

“Well I'm finishing what my mother started long ago, starting with you.” Mystic said, her eyes glowing.

“Fine! If it's a duel you want, then a duel you shall have.” Harmonia said, she transforms herself back into the unicorn form she had on the first day she came here.

“Just remembered, what I've told you time and time again you will never be nothing, you will always be nothing.” Crystal calls out.

Harmonia rolls her eyes. “I'm going to show you what a real unicorn can do.” Mystic snarks, still circling around Harmonia.

“Are you sure about that?” Harmonia questions.

“Quite! I'll finish you one way or another.” Mystic snears.

“Or not.” Harmonia smirks.

“Draw!” Shouts Mystic. She levitates a nearby shrub and herald it in Harmonia’s direction, letting it hit Crystal instead.

“Hey!” Crystal whines. Harmonia thinks for a moment sending pie and splattering it in Mystic’s face.

A crowd begins to form around the two fillies. A few stifled laughers could be heard among the crowd. “Clever! But can you do this.” Mystic questions. Above her, White cloud of snow forms above Harmonia, dumping it above her.

Harmonia uses a spell to melt the snow away. Harmonia, huffs glaring at the mare. “Don't tell me you give up all ready. I was just starting to have fun.” Mystic smirks, her tone viciously playful.

“Not a chance!” Shouts Harmonia. Harmonia, quickly transforms out of her unicorn appearance, seeing that it wasn't doing her much of any good.

Harmonia thinks quickly for a moment. “I'd hate to see you get attack by flash bees.” Harmonia said. She made the flash bees appear, but Mystic quickly made them disappear before they had a chance to sting her.

The small colt examines from afar. “No way!” He mutters, he then gallops off to find somepony to help.

“I've really should have taken more magic lessons with mommy and daddy.” Harmonia thought to herself.

***

Celestia’s office door flew open, to reveal the colt. His blue eyes were frantic and filled with worry. “What’s wrong Cotton Berry?” Celestia asks, her voice concerned.

Twilight turns her attention to the young colt.

“Princess Celestia!! There’s a magical duel going on outside!!” Cotton Berry announces, then he hurries off to join the others.

Celestia and Twilight both look at each other, both mimicking the same expression.

When the two alicorns got outside to the playground, they could hear colts and fillies yelling “FIGHT” over and over again. Celestia saw mini explosions of pink and blue magic smashing against each other. Celestia and Twilight looked at each other, worried and ran towards the fight. They move past the little ponies and their jaws dropped at what they saw. Twilight’s eyes filled with tears as she gasped at the sight.

“What is the meaning of all of this?” Celestia asks, her voice loud and stern. All the ponies went quiet. Harmonia and Mystic looked at the princess and stopped.

“What are you exactly doing here and attacking my student?” Celestia asks, her tone serious.

“She has to pay!” Mystic said, pointing a hoof at her.

”I didn’t even do anything to you.” Harmonia exclaims, as she stands beside her mother.

Mystic rolled her eyes. She walks over to Harmonia whispering into her ear. “You better be lucky that the almighty Princess Celestia came in time. Or you would have be finished. Next time you will not be so lucky princess.” The young unicorn said, her tone rather threatening.

With foul words said, she teleported away. Twilight walked from behind Harmonia, her eyes narrowed. “Harmonia, do you know who that was?” Twilight asks.

“No mommy, but she definitely knew who you were.” Harmonia said, her tone serious.

Twilight looked at her daughter with a puzzled expression. “Everypony head to class.” Celestia instructions the crowd of ponies.

Everypony follows Celestia’s orders, except Harmonia, she stayed behind with Twilight. “What are you doing here anyways mommy?” Harmonia asks.

“I'm not exactly sure, but Celestia wanted to talk to me about you.” Twilight said.

“Am I in trouble?” Harmonia asks.

“Not really. It's like a parent teacher conference so it speak.” Twilight explains.

“Oh! Well I better get to class, don't want to be late.” Harmonia beams then hurries off.

“This is not the class I wish to be in.” Harmonia mutters. She was in detention for the next three hours.

“Well maybe next time you will learn not to start fights on school grounds.” Celestia said, she then shuts the door.

After sitting there, staring blankly at her paper where she was suppose to write: “ I will not fight in school anymore” instead she just shouts to herself. “This is boring!”

She then teleports out of detention.

The door to Celestia’s office was still closed, but Harmonia could still hear Celestia and her Mom's voice.

“But, she is only five. Do you really think she would be ready to be crowned in two years?” Twilight wonders.

“She seems to be doing a good job so far, besides she's already born into royalty. She doesn't have to be ascended like you were Twilight only crowned.” Celestia explains.

“I was ascended to an alicorn by learning about friendship and I earned my crown like that. I would rather my daughter have the same ruling. Let her make friends while she is still young.” Twilight explains.

“I understand your point Twilight. But not everypony follows in the same hoofsteps as their parents-” Celestia was cut off, by a small squeal outside the door.

“Um… was that you?” Celestia asks Twilight.

Twilight shook her head. “No.”

Twilight opens the door only to reveal a flash of raspberry pink magic left behind.

Twilight sighs. “You can go on ahead Twilight I will have a talk with Harmonia.” Celestia places a hoof on Twilight's shoulder.

Twilight nods and walks out of the room. “Thank you, Princess Celestia.” Twilight turned to leave. “I'll be back later to pick up Harmonia.” She said, before leaving.

***

Celestia made her way to the detention room, where Harmonia was reading a book. "I'm sorry Harmonia, but when you are crowned princess you just can’t spread your chaos powers all over the place. You will have to learn how to control it." The eldest alicorn explains.

"Well when I'm crowned that will be the first thing to go." The

"Not while I'm still around!" Celestia said.

"Well in that case I'll go start a democracy with Aunt Luna." Harmonia said, her tone nonchalant.

Celestia scoffs. "Nice try, but your not crowned yet."

Harmonia closes her book. "But I will be soon." Harmonia huffs.

"But you aren't yet. And at the rate you're going you are shaping up to be a pretty poor princess indeed!" Celestia said

"Not the way I see it!" Harmonia said, giving the eldest Princess a smirk.

***

Discord paced up and down with his arms around his back. Twilight and Harmonia were supposed to be back 30 minutes ago. Usually around this time, Harmonia would have returned from school and given him a big hug while Twilight gave him a kiss. Discord ears perked up as he hear the castle door open. He frowned as he saw Starlight and Tempest appearing behind it, carrying saddlebags on their backs.

“Hi Discord! I got everything on Twilight’s list! Today, me and Tempest will be cooking my favorite dish: Hay Tamale Pie! It was one of my favorite dishes when I was a filly!” Starlight said.

“You talk too much Starlight.” Tempest said, removing the saddlebag from her back. Starlight giggled and hugged Tempest. Tempest hugged Starlight for a few seconds. Discord rolled his eyes. Tempest noticed this and began walking up to him.

“Discord? Have you seen Twilight and your daughter?” Tempest asks.

“No. They were supposed to be here thirty minutes ago. I wonder what’s keeping them?” Discord replied, tapping Tempest’s broken horn.

“Come on Discord! Five minutes! It’s not like Harmonia got into a fight at school!” Starlight asked, laughing. The doors opened to see Twilight and Harmonia. Harmonia teleports up to her room. Twilight sighed as she closed the door and walked towards her husband, friend and personal guard.

“So, did Harmonia have a good day at school?” Discord said, puckering up, ready to receive a kiss from Twilight. Twilight put a hoof to Discord’s mouth.

“Harmonia got into a fight today.” Twilight said, bluntly. Starlight, Discord and Tempest gasped.

“What happened Twi?! Is she hurt?” Starlight asked, worried.

“She go into a magical duel with another unicorn. My daughter is not hurt, thankfully. But I don’t understand why she keeps getting into fights! Have I done anything to her make her do this? I don’t understand.” Twilight groaned, slumping to the ground. Discord circled around her and poofed into a snake. He shook his tail, making it boop Twilight’s muzzle. She smiled and touch his tail.

Tempest let out a cough. “Anyways, sorry to interrupt, whatever that was but I think one of us could go and comfort Harmonia?” Tempest said, her tone blunt.

“Maybe I should go. She can help me prepare dinner while we talk. I can convince her to eat my fillyhood dish!” Starlight said happily, teleporting away before anypony responded. Starlight teleports into Harmonia’s room, startling the little being.

“Aunt Starlight? What are you doing here?” Harmonia asked. Starlight took her lion paw and they both teleported to the kitchen where Harmonia saw different ingredients laid out. Harmonia looked at her aunt in confusion while Starlight giggled. She ignites her magic to make Tempest appear beside her.

“What? What is going on? Starlight? Harmonia? I don’t understand.” Tempest said, very confused. Starlight, Tempest and Harmonia began to cook Starlight’s fillyhood dish as they talked about.

“You are going to help us cook! Besides I've been wanting to try my favorite dish for awhile now and you are going to help us.” Starlight explains placing out the rest of the ingredients.

Tempest lightly chuckles. “Eh. If you haven't noticed I'm a royal guard not a chief.” Tempest explains.

“Never hurts to try anything new, right?” Harmonia asks.

“I guess you're right.” Tempest mumbles, she grabs a pan from the oven, placing it on top of the counter.

10 minutes later….

Smoke surrounded the three, both looking at Tempest who gave a light-hearted chuckle. “I warned you that I wasn't a chief.” Tempest explained.

Starlight rolled her eyes. Giving Harmonia a bare expression. Starlight sighs. “Well, I guess we better clean this up.” She mutters to the two.

All three of them was a mess along with the kitchen. They start to grab the cleaning supply from under the sink and begin cleaning, as they were cleaning Starlight asks her niece a series of questions about what happened at school today.

“....Well I found out that I suppose to be crowned in the next two years.” Harmonia explains, as she washes down the countertop.

“How? I thought a pony only get crowned when he or she achieves that certain goal in their lives that transforms them into an alicorn.” Tempest wonders.

“Yes, but Twilight's niece was the first born Alicorn in Equestria.” Starlight explains.

“But I thought Great Aunt Luna and Celestia were the first alicorns in Equestria.” Harmonia asks, slightly confused.

“If you ask me, we are all confused at the moment.” Starlight said, her tone blunt.

“Oh and I also broke into song!” Harmonia grins. “Would you like to hear it?” She asks her aunt.

“I'm gonna be the best Princess with-” Harmonia gets cut off by Tempest.

“I love musicals as much as the next pony, but can we please just get this mess cleaned up.” Tempest said, scrubbing the floor.

“You know Tempy you are no fun half the time. Besides I was going to sing about my plans after I became crowned.” Harmonia huffs, crossing her paw and claw.

“I can be tons of fun if I want to.” Tempest said, defensive.

Starlight giggles at how defensive Tempest was being. “How about you can go outside and play while we clean up this mess.” Starlight suggests.

“Are you sure?” Harmonia wonders.

“Of course!” Starlight beams. “Now go have fun.”

Harmonia took it as an opportunity to be free from her “chore”. She teleports herself outside of the castle, where the warm soft breeze of a late May wind blows throw her mane.

She lays down in the grass, closing her eyes and letting the warm rays of Celestia’s sun soak into her fur. Letting the warmth fill her soul. She felt calm and at peace.

“Hey watch out!” Shouts a voice. But Harmonia didn't listen, she was still soaking in the rays of Celestia’s sun.

The figure, crashes into Harmonia, sending them both tumbling down the hill. Harmonia huffs. “Hey! What's the big idea!” She asks.

“I-I'm so sorry.” The young pegasus colt said. He extend his hoof to help her up. “My mom insistence that I practice my flying, luckily I crashed into you.” He smirks.
Harmonia blushes. “What's your name?” He asks.

“Ha-Harmonia.” She stammered. Harmonia gazes at the young colt. He had a Amber orange fur, raspberry pink eyes. His mane was slick back with colors of fire mixed with a tint of deep purple. She took notice that his left wing had a few clips and tears in it.

“Well Ha-Harmonia.” He snickers a bit. “It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Prism Bolt Dash.” Prism said.

“Nice to meet you.” Harmonia said. “So what brings you here? As many times as I have been out here I've never had any visitors fall from the sky.” Harmonia snicks.

Prism smirks. “Well, my mom was giving me flying lessons until her cutie mark started to glow.” Prism explains.

“Must be a “Friendship Mission.” Explains Harmonia.

From the sky Rainbow Dash, was flying over head, looking for Prism. “Prism!” Rainbow calls out. “Where are you?” She calls out.

Prism sighs. “Sorry about her, she is a bit overprotective of me.” Prism chuckles to himself, he was bashful.

“I'm down here mom!” Prism calls out.

Rainbow Dash spots them from the sky, she comes down looking at the two. “Hey Aunt Rainbow! What are you doing here?”
Harmonia wonders.

“Well the map called your Aunt Fluttershy and I on a mission. So I hope you don't mind if the boys could stay with you for a few hours.” Rainbow said.

From a distance comes Fluttershy and her son. He was an Earth pony, with pale green fur. His mane was up in a colt bun with the colors of Fluttershy mane and a tinge of orange-red. His expression remain calm.

“Hey Rainbow Dash! Ready to go on our “Friendship Mission”?” Fluttershy asks.

“Heck yeah I am!” Rainbow Dash seemed more excited than Fluttershy. Rainbow pumps her hoof in the air. “it's been awhile since we ever went on a Friendship Mission. Just like old times.” Rainbow beams.

“I feel the same way! I hope Twilight doesn't mind if we drop the boys off.” Fluttershy said.

“Nah, I'm sure she wouldn't mind.” Rainbow Dash said. “Now come on!” Rainbow shot in Twilight's castle, obviously overly excited about the mission.

***

Twilight stood at the Friendship Table, looking at Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash cutiemark circling around an area that they have never been to. The door creaks open to reveal the two pegasus.

“I'm glad you two could make it!” Beams Twilight.

“So where is this Friendship Mission at?” Rainbow Dash asks, she was obviously excited and eager to get her mission done.

“Here!” Twilight pointed a hoof to a mediocre sized city. “Baltimare?” Fluttershy questions.

Twilight nods. “Why would the map call us there?” Rainbow Dash questions.

“I'm not sure, but whatever the reason is. It picked you two for the job.” Twilight said.

“Alright, well we better go.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Twilight I hope you don't mind, but we brought Meadow Bliss and Prism Bolt to play with Harmonia.” Fluttershy said.

“Of course I don't.” Twilight said.

Rainbow Dash smiles. “Well come on, Flutters we better get going.” she said, motioning for Fluttershy to come on.

***

Outside Meadow Bliss and Prism Breeze was relaxing under Celestia's sun. “So do you guys do anything for fun?” Harmonia asks them.

Prism had his eyes closed, but still responses to Harmonia's question. “Of course! We do.” he said.

“We like to pull pranks ever now and then.” Prism said, his tone nonchalant.

“Shh!” Meadow Bliss said.

“Dude, what are you even doing?” Prism said. Noticing that the earth pony was at peace.

“What does it look like. I'm meditating. You guys should try it sometime.” His tone was mellow and calm.

“No thanks. I prefer chaos.” Harmonia giggles.

“So you said you guys like pranks?” Harmonia said, looking at the boys.

“He does, I don't.” Meadow explains, his eyes still close.

“Yep! They are awesome! Though I tend to get a little carried away and I get into trouble..” Prism said, laughing nervously. Harmonia shrugged her shoulders and made a chocolate milkshake with whipped cream appear in front of her. She took a large sip from it.

“How did you do that?” Meadow Bliss asks, his attention now fully aware looking at the draconequus.

“Oh, well, I have special powers. I can do anything with them!”

“So your like a genie!” Said another voice.

“Where did you come from?” Asks Prism.

He was referring to the young earth pony. She had a light pink fur, baby blue eyes her mane was mixed with periwinkle and dark blue.

Her tone was giddy and full of excitement. “Hi! I'm Confetti Pop!” Confetti said, her grin was wide.

“You must be new here! And if you're new here that means I've never seen you around here before!” This filly was talking a mile a minute. “So now I give you the “Welcome To Ponyville Song!”

Confetti took a gasp of air and launches into her song. “Welcome to Ponyville, Welcome to Ponyville, Welcome to Ponyville and your new! If-”

Harmonia cuts the filly off. “I’ve been here for five years.” Harmonia explains, her tone blunt.

“Awe, you cut me off at the best part.” Confetti frowns.

The group started laughing.

From afar, a little filly was watching them from a distance.

She then turns to leave.

***

Harmonia, being the adventurous young draconequus she was, makes her way through Everfree Forest. She was making her way to Froggy Bottom Bog. The eerie atmosphere, making the young draconequus unaware of the danger that lurks within forest.

Harmonia continues to plays along the path that her mother told Zecora to mark for her, which held tiny colorful speckles of stones. Harmonia teeters along a small fallen log across. She looks up and just from afar heald Froggy Bottom Bog, Harmonia saw it within her field of vision.

Harmonia being a tad clumsy, accidentally trips over the log. She begins to tumble down the cliff, but her tumbling comes to a stop once after she bumps into somepony, who looked to be around her age.

The young draconequus opens her eyes to come face to face with a creature she has never seen before.

The creature then looks at Harmonia, her eyes narrowed at her. She looked like she was ready to pounce her.

Harmonia backs away, slightly timid by her appearance. “What are you doing here, Equestrianer. Who are you?” she sneers, demanding answers from the draconequus.

Harmonia moves to the left, the creature follows. She tries to move to the right, once again the creature follows.

The creature stops, and looks at the draconequus, confused by her movements. “What are you doing?” She asks.

“My daddy says to never turn your back on a changeling.” Harmonia sneers.

The changeling smirks at her. “Do you always do what daddy says?” The changeling asks.

Harmonia’s eyebrows were furrowed. “No!” she scoffs.

The changeling saw how amusing it was to tick off the draconequus, so she presses further. “Betcha do! I bet your daddy’s little girl.” She laughs.

Harmonia remains silent, her ears flat. The changeling then turns to make her way to Froggy Bottom Bog, the exact same place where Harmonia was heading. “A changeling doesn't need anypony. I can take care of myself.” Harmonia’s friendly interested peeks within this changeling, she starts to follow behind her.

Like her mother, Harmonia begins asks questions. “Really?” Harmonia asks.

Without watching, Harmonia steps on a twig which snaps. Alerting a pack of timberwolves. “Cool!” Harmonia said, her tone rather exciting.

The changeling smiles at her, but her smile quickly falters into a frown especially one of fear. Her eyes going wide as she starts to scream at Harmonia, who was in return- was unaware that a Timberwolf with its mouth open, hovering above her.

Harmonia quickly turns to see what the changeling was screaming about, which what she saw made Harmonia scream as well. “Run!” She yells at the changeling.

Without hesitation, the changeling and Harmonia runs through the forest. The timberwolf howling for more to come after the two.

Harmonia was about to leap to a nearby branch, as the changeling follows after. But she quickly retreats when she sees that a timberwolf leaps out in front of them.

“This way!” Harmonia said, leading the two manage to dodge the timberwolf.

The timberwolf growls and howls signaling more to follow it.

“You are a changeling! Right? Can’t you change?!” Harmonia asks, her tone laced with fear.

“Yes! But I haven’t fully master my powers yet! Plus I can’t exactly change when I have a powerful emotion of fear.” The changeling explains.

Both were running for their lives, they notice that Zecora's hut was just in Harmonia's field of vision. Harmonia groans. "Come on! Zecora's hut is just ahead!" Harmonia said, running towards the zebras hut.

Harmonia teleports both, herself and the changeling inside. Zecora wasn't at home, she must have been out in town grabbing ingredients for her potions.

Or she was wrong, the zebra looks at the two. Their backs pressed against Zecora's door, their hearts pounding.

"What seems to have your nerves in a jumble and fright? Don't you know it's dangerous in this forest of fright?" The zebra asks.

Harmonia was out of breath. “Zecora! There are Timberwolves after us. Please you have to-”

The changeling screaming cuts Harmonia off, as the Timberwolf pounds against the door, tempting to knock it down.

After the third attempt, the Timberwolf successes. It's teeth bared, growling and eyeing the two.

Harmonia notices the backdoor for Zecora's hut. “Sorry about this Zecora.” Harmonia said, looking apologetic at the zebra.

She knocks over Zecora brew, sending the contents spilling onto the floor and towards the timberwolf.

The timberwolf corals in fear, Harmonia then uses her magic to blast the timberwolf to pieces.

“Sorry once again about your potion Zecora. Come on! Let's go!” Harmonia said, telling the changeling to come on.

The changeling follows Harmonia out the back of Zecora's hut.

Sure enough the duo was met once again by more Timberwolves. “Oh come on! How many more are there of you muts!” Harmonia growls, slightly annoyed.

She blasts a few of the timberwolves with her magic, before taking off.

Once again, they both flee for their lives. Froggy Bottom Bog was just in their field of vision. “Froggy Bottom Bog is just ahead! Maybe I can teleport us there!” Harmonia explains.

In a flash the draconequus teleport the two into the muddy mud of Froggy Bottom Bog. Harmonia and the changeling pants. “That was close!” Harmonia said.

“Yeah…” The changeling said, softly smiling at her.

They slowly start to rise from the mud, both screaming at how high they were. The two were unaware that they were stand on top of a three-headed hydra. The hydra snaps its jaws at the changeling, who hoovers above it to avoid being lunch.

Harmonia dives for a nearby branch, hanging onto it for dear life. The changeling on the other leaves Harmonia. “H-Hey! What about me?” Harmonia said, her tone of voice shaking with fear.

The changeling leaps through the mud. “I’ll distract it! Run!” The changeling shouts.

The changeling runs through the mud, and slips falling face first.

Harmonia, claws at the hydra who turns and narrows its head at the changeling. The hydra stops for Harmonia and stalks its way towards the young changeling. “Hey! Look out!” Harmonia yells.

The hydra stalks it way over to the changeling. Who scurries and backs into a head tree limb. Its jaws open, ready to bite.

Harmonia blasts the hydra from behind, before pouncing on it snapping its jaws shut. “Move it!” Harmonia said, her tone worried. She watched as the changeling climbs up the tree branch, she follows behind. The hydra snaps at her, nearly missing her tail.

The changeling leaps to safety, which was on the cliff. Harmonia on the other hand was still clinging onto the branch as the hydra snaps at the branch causing it to shake. “Whoa!” Harmonia said, clinging it a little tighter.

“You are going to have to jump!” The changeling shouts.

Harmonia lets go of the branch and leaps, making it to safety.

Harmonia and the changeling pants. They could hear the roar of the hydra, they both look over the cliffs edge to the that the hydra was making it way back to its home.

“I did it!” Harmonia whispers her tone rather proud of herself. She pauses for a second to realize what she had it. “Ha! I did it!” She repeats again, her tone becoming boastful.

She sticks out her tongue at the hydra making a strange noise with it. The changeling smirks at the draconequus before looking down at the hydra. “Ha!” The changeling sasses, before turning to leave.

***

“Sweet Celestia! Did you see the size of those teeth?” Harmonia asks the changeling. “It was like Rawr! Rawr! Rawr!” Harmonia giggles, making her attempt to sound like a hydra, but she only winded up sounding adorable.

The changeling smiles at her. “We barely escaped with our lives… that was thrilling.” Harmonia grins, her expression rather exciting.

From afar, a mysterious shadow was watching their every move. Their eyes glowing.

“You know? We would make such a great team! You were really brave!” Harmonia said, her tone still overly excited.

The changeling looks at Harmonia, as if she had too much cotton candy and chocolate milk.

“Well, you were pretty brave too! I probably would not have made it out alive and still be stuck there if it wasn’t for your help. My name is Amaris!” The changeling, Amaris said.

“Nice to meet you! My name is Harmonia, but my friends call me Harmony.” Harmonia explains.

The shadow lingers, sneering at Harmonia and Amaris.

It was about to lung at the two, before a familiar voice starts to make it think twice.

“There you two are! You had us worried sick!” Twilight said, the Mane 6 along with Discord and Princess Luna follows.

“How did you even know we was out here?” Harmonia asks.

“You can thank your Aunt Pinkie Pie and her Pinkie Senses.” Discord said, pointing his claw over to the pink mare.

“It’s a good thing too, because I would hate it if something really bad happen to you two. But thanks to my Pinkie Sense you are a-okay.” Pinkie beams.

“Your father is Discord?” Amaris mutters to the draconequus.

“Your mother is Princess Luna?” Harmonia mutters back.

“What are you two out here? Don’t you know it's dangerous?” Luna asks.

“I told you to stay close to Zecora’s hut! Not out here in Boggy Bottom Bog.” Discord said, his tone rather strict toward Harmonia.

Harmonia flinched at her father’s rather strict tone. “At least you girls are both safe, now come on. Let’s go home.” Twilight said, motioning for daughter to come on.

“Thank you once again for helping us, Twilight.” Luna said.

“You are ever so welcome Princess.” Twilight said, softly smiling.

She looks down at her daughter, who was looking at Discord with remorse. “Come on, sweetheart. Let’s head home.” Twilight said, brushing her daughter’s hair out of her eyes.

***

The walk back to Twilight’s castle was fairly far. Harmonia stays inches behind Discord. The others were ahead, and Twilight was just a few feet in front of Discord.

Twilight turns to look at Discord. “Dissy?” Twilight asks, her tone soft.

Discord clears his throat. Twilight took it as a sign that everything would hopefully be okay. She gives a soft smile before heading on down the trail back to her castle.

Discord looks at a whimpering young draconequus. He snaps his claws and places her on a nearby rock. Harmonia looks at her father with a wide apologetic toothy grin, but it quickly falters when she notices how crossed he was at her.

“Harmonia? What did you think you were doing? You could have been killed today.” Discord said, speaking to her in a rather calm voice.

“But daddy, I… I didn’t mean to diso-” Harmonia said, ready to state her defense, but Discord cuts her off.

“I’m telling you this because I love you. I don’t want to see anything bad happen to you- or worse lose you.” Discord explains.

Harmonia hangs her head, knowing that she has disappointed two of the most caring people in all of Equestria. “I know.” she said, her tone full of sorrow.

“I-If something happened to you I wouldn’t know what I’d do.” Discord said, ruffling his daughter’s mane.

Discord sighs. “One day, we won’t be here. And as future princess of chaos and Friendship your mother and I will need you to carry on in our place.” Discord said.

Harmonia huffs. “I know, I know. You tell me this a thousand times.” she said, her paws crossed.

“Exactly. And you need to be careful.” Discord said.

“But what if I don’t want to be next in line, I mean do I really have to take mommy's throne?” Harmonia asks.

Discord gawks at the young draconequus, speechless. “You actually have to. You are the only child after all.” Discord explains.

Harmonia huffs, her paws folded. Discord sighs. “However, that's like saying you don't want to be a draconequus. It's in your blood, as I am.” Discord said, his tone softens.

“We are apart of each other.” Discord said.

“Hmph!” Harmonia said, her tiny paws remained crossed over her chest, her fuzzy face held a “stuck up Canterlot pony” look.

Discord smirks at his daughter, and gently pushes her down from the rock.

“Oof!” Harmonia said, she lands in a awkward position. Her mane, covering her vision, she moves her mane to catch a glimpse of Discord smiling at her, trying his best not to laugh.

Harmonia softly smiles back. She hugs Discord, embracing the hug for a meer second.

Discord looks down at his daughter, giving her a soft smile. "Harmony, as you go through life you'll see and know that there is so much to understand. Even as you get older, not everything in life can go according to plan. But just know that your mother and I will be by your side no matter what happens."

Harmonia looks at her reflection in the water for a mere second, before looking at her dad. "Daddy? If their so much I must be, like being soon to be crowned Princess. Can I still just be me? The way I am? I don't want to change for anypony else."

"You will never change, Fuzzball. You will always be my little girl." Discord said, hugging his daughter.

Harmonia walks from beside Discord as she silently thought to herself. "Can I trust in my own heart? Or am I just one part of some big plan?" She thought to herself.

Harmonia and Discord made it back to Twilight's castle. Discord smile at the castle before looking down at his daughter, who gave a look of confusion.

Discord softly smiles at her. “As long as you live here, it's who you are. You'll understand someday.” Discord softly spoke to her.

He then looks back once more before returning inside, leaving Harmonia alone.

Harmonia stares blankly at the castle before her, she turns around noticing the town and her future citizens before her.

The afternoon setting sun casting a soft glow across the town, making everything look quite and at peace like harmony was magical there.

Harmonia softly smiles, she then turns to head inside for the rest of the night.

Author's Note

Amaris is the daughter of Luna and Pharynx, however Amaris hardly sees her dad, so she live in Canterlot with Luna and Celestia.

Also who doesn't love a good Lion King & Lion KIng 2: Simba's Pride reference?

Chapter 17

Chapter 17: Chaotic Dates & Dinner Dates (Part 1)

Celestia's sun shines brightly on the green grass, the wind blowing softly through the trees. Discord, Twilight and Harmonia were having a family day out. Twilight sighed as the cool breeze flew on her face and mane. She looked around to see ponies with their sons and daughters playing together.

Harmonia chases a tiny Peacock who is screaming for her life.

Harmonia giggles at the toying of this tiny pony. “Your sooo cute!” Harmonia said, still playing with her “toy”.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! PLEASE!! GET AWAY FROM ME!! PLEASEEE!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Peacock screams, her voice tiny and squeaky.

Discord laughs at what their daughter was doing. “Honey, you have to see what Harmonia is doing.” He said, still laughing. Twilight follows her husbands gaze, instead of laughing she gasps and rushes over to Harmonia. She places a firm hoof on Harmonia’s shoulder, giving her a dark glare. Harmonia groans loudly and poofs the little pony back to her original size.

“Gahh! Thank you Princess Twilight! I thought I was going to be dinner!” Peacock said, stroking her yellow mane.

“You’re welcome Miss. My daughter here has a bit of trouble controlling her magic. I promise that it won’t happen again.” Twilight said with a apologetic smile.

Peacock bowed and walked away from the princess.

Twilight turned to her daughter. “Harmonia, what did we say about using your magic on other ponies?” Twilight scolds.

“I'm sorry, mommy. It won't happen again I promise.” Harmonia gives Twilight her most sweetest smile ever.

Twilight nods and returns back to her bench which was under a tree with Discord.

Harmonia scans the playground looking for somepony to play with. She lays eyes upon a sweet pegasus, she had apricot fur and her mane and tail were mediocre sized and curled with the shades of burnt amber orange with teal and blue streaks, her mane being short, half down and half up, her tail was the same length as her mane except it had a curl at the end.

Harmonia thought to herself. “She looks rather friendly, but I rather not bother she looks busy.”

***

From afar sat a regal young unicorn stallion, he had lavender eyes, a pale frost blue coat, his mane was slick back with colors of frost white, pale blue and light yellow.

He was about the age of Harmonia, if not by 3 years.

He was sitting under a shade tree, watching others ponies run and play. Wishing he could be doing the same thing, however his guards wouldn't let him even step hoof on the grass. His family may be royalty, but he was nothing like his parents or sister.

“Can't I at least go and play with somepony my age. Sitting here and observing others is boring.” The young stallion complain.

“Prince Illusion, you know your father does not want you to associate with commenders.” The guard explains, his tone uptight.

“If it is anyone to blame. It's your father's rules not ours.” Apologizes the other guard.

Illusion rolls his eyes. “I've got to find a way to get this goons off of my back.” He thought to himself.

Then, an idea came to his head. “Say, I'm a bit famished at the moment can you both go to the Ponyville market to pick up some apples?” Illusion asks.

“Sir, those apples are only grown on a farm called Sweet Apple Acres. Do you really expect us to go all the way there for just a few apples from a peasant?” Questions the first guard, his eyebrows raised.

“Yes, and if you don't then I will just tell Dad about the extra bits you two secretly stashed just to get extra cider on that same peasants farm four weeks ago.” Illusion smirks.

The guards eyes widen. “Right away your highness.” They said in unison.

Illusion watched as they flew off before turn his attention back to the semi-crowded park. “Now's my chance.” He thought to himself.

He steps off of his “royal” blanket and step hoof first into the grass. He grins, looking forward at the other ponies. Excitement was shown through his teeth with a gleam in his eyes.

He had a feeling that today was going to be perfect.

Or so he thought.

A bright raspberry pink orb, shot out of nowhere wizzes pass him.

Illusion ducks. “Where did that come from.” He thinks to himself.

He scans the crowd, targeting his mysterious suspect. “Hey! Watch where you are aiming! Are you-” He shouts, but quickly stops when he see who it was.

A tiny young draconequus quickly runs up to him, an apologetic expression on her face. “I am so sorry.” Harmonia squeaks.

“Well hello there.” Illusion’s tone, went from slightly stunned and strearn to charming.

Harmonia heart race quickened and her cheeks held a hint of pink to it. “Come on Harmonia say something….” She thought to herself.

“I-um-ah-” Harmonia stutters, trying her best to form some sentence to say to beautiful young stallion.

Illusion chuckles. “I'm Illusion. Prince Illusion that is.” He gives her his hoof to shake, but Harmonia stares at it wondering if she should touch him or not.

“Well don't be rude.” Her thought argues with her, Harmonia shakes his hoof. “What's your name?” He asks.

“Harmony-” Harmonia spills out.

“Way to go! You just told him your nickname.” Harmonia thought.

“But only my friends-” Harmonia said, but was quickly cut off.

Illusion lightly chuckles. Harmonia gave him a curious look. “My apologies for my laughter, but it was not at you. There's just something unique about you.” He gives Harmonia a lopsided grin.

“I hope that's a good thing.” Harmonia mutters.

Illusion waves a dismissive hoof. “Oh believe me, it is.” he said, his tone nonchalant.

“So, you said you’re a Prince? I've never heard of anypony new being born into royalty.” Harmonia questions.

“And that's because you haven't. I was born before my sister, with my father is classified as the Duke.” Illusion explains.

Harmonia made adoring eyes at the young prince. She did not hear or even see her mother walk up towards her. “Sweetie, it's time to go.” Twilight said, her tone soft.

She didn't notice the starstruck look her daughter had on her face. “Umm Harmony, sweetie.” Twilight looked to where her daughter was gazing at.

“Oh, hello! I didn't see you there.” Twilight said, referring to the handsome young unicorn stallion.

“I’m-” Twilight was about to introduce herself, but the stallion cut her off.

“Princess Twilight Sparkle. Ah, yes my mother has told me so much about you.” Illusion said, extending his hoof for her to shake.

Twilight shook his hoof then look back down at her daughter she giggled and patted her daughter’s mane. Harmonia looked at her mother in confusion.

“Looks like some pony has a bit of a crush” Twilight teases. Harmonia looked at her mother, confused and shocked.

“WHAT?! NO! I DO NOT! WHY WOULD I HAVE A CRUSH ON ILLUSION?!” Harmonia blurted, her face turning red from embarrassment.

Twilight giggles. “Alright, then you won't mind if I invite Illusion and his family over for dinner at the castle tonight?” A sly smirk spreads onto Twilight's lips.

Harmonia stayed silent as every possible chaotic scenario was running through her mind. She was mentally having a freakout in her own head. Illusion smiled and walked up to Harmonia.

“I think that is a great idea Princess Twilight! I will tell my mother and father about this, right away! I’m sure that they would love to have dinner with you and your family!” IIlusion said, his eyes sparkling.

“Right then. Please come to my castle at 7pm tonight.” Twilight said.

“Of course!” IIIusion said, he gave a small smile to Harmonia as she blushed.

“Come on sweetie, I guess we will be having company over for the night.” Twilight turns to leave. Harmonia nodded and turned towards IIIusion, scratching her lion paw.

“Um.. so, I guess I will see you tonight then?” Harmonia said, softly.

“Yes! It was a pleasure meeting you Harmony.” Illusion winks at her as he takes his hoof into hers and gently shook it. Harmonia blushed wildly as IIIusion walked away from her. Once IIIusion was out of her sight, she let out a happy squeal and ran to her mother.

***

Trixie POV:

Canterlot a bustling city filled with high society ponies, each holding a specific status within the city.

Ponies walk the streets of Canterlot, but inside the west wing of the Canterlot castle held the royal family of four: Prince Blueblood, Trixie Lunamoon, their younger daughter Mystic and their oldest son by 3 years, Illusion.

“Mother, Father, little sister. The Princess gives us personal invitations to have dinner tonight at her castle.” Illusion announces.

The parents stop what they are doing and look at their son. Mystic was the first to speak up.

“Why do we have to go there?” Mystic complains.

“Because it's a royal invite. Besides you never turn down an invitation from royalty.” Trixie explains to her daughter.

Mystic grimace, her muzzle scrunched slightly. “But it's in Ponyville, why there?” Whines Duke Blueblood.

Trixie rolls her eyes. “I swear you two are just alike.” She complains to the two.

“Besides, I finally get to see Starlight again I haven't seen her in a while.” Trixie mutters slightly, but still loud enough for them to hear.

“You wish to see her? But she's just a regular old unicorn. She's doesn't live up to our standards.” Prince Blueblood said, his tone sounding rather snarky and uptight than normal.

Trixie turns around giving Blueblood a forcible grin, her teeth slightly clenched as she was talking through her teeth. “Because she is my best friend and all of us are going to that dinner tonight rather you like it or not!” She snaps.

She plastering forcible grin falters as she turn to her son. “What time does the dinner start, Illusion?” She asks.

“Seven pm sharp. The location is Princess Twilight's castle.” Illusion said, remembering what the Princess of Friendship said.

Blueblood looks at the clock. “Well is 4pm now, that gives us two hours to get ready. You know how long it takes us to get ready.”

“If it's a Twilight's castle then oooo Trixie can't wait to rub my better life in her face.” Trixie thinks to herself, grinning triumphantly.

“Mother, you aren't going to try and beat Princess Twilight Sparkle again are you?” Illusion asks, his eyebrow raised slightly. His expression deadpanned.

“What? Of course not!” Trixie scoffed.

Illusion and Mystic now both gave the same expression. “How long ago has their rivalry been going on?” Mystic mutters to her brother.

Illusion sighs. “Honestly, I lost count.” He's voice remain monotonous.

“Come on, can I please do it just this once?” Trixie pleads.

“Trixie, my dear you know you are better than this. You know this is no way for royalty to act.” Blueblood scolds his wife.

Trixie rolls her eyes. “Fine.” She grumbles.

“We will all leave at 5:30 pm. So, children be ready before hoof, at least by 5:22pm.” Blueblood announces.

Blueblood and Trixie both depart from their children leaving Mystic and Illusion alone.

“You think this dinner will go smoothly tonight?” Mystic asks.

Illusion chuckles to himself. “Oh I highly doubt that.”

Illusion and Mystic then parted ways going to get dressed for the dinner at Twilight's tonight.

***

“Do you think this dress is pretty enough mommy?” Harmonia asks, she had on a pastel lavender dress, the waist associated with tiny pearls and diamonds.

Twilight exams her daughter's choice of fashion. “Sweetie you do know we don't wear clothes, Right?” Twilight stifled a small giggle.

“Well you were clothes to that one fancy party that gets held once a year.” Harmonia said.

“It's called the Grand Galloping Gala.” Twilight explains, still giggling.

“Besides what you are wearing screams “Regal Is My Middle Name.” Harmonia gestures to Twilight's dress.

Her dress was raspberry pink with gold trimming on the edges.

Twilight grimace. “You have a point, it maybe a bit over the top, but this is a dinner party so pick something a bit classical. Make sure to wear your crown while your at it.” Twilight said, gesturing to the crown on Harmonia's bedside table.

“Fine!” Harmonia huffs.

“I'll be back in a few to check on you.” Twilight then shuts the door.

“As much as i love Rarity's design and hard work maybe this could be toned down a bit, besides Harmonia right this is a bit to much.” Twilight thought to herself she quickly went to her room to change into something more classical for a royal family dinner.

***

Harmonia and Twilight both existed their bedroom. Rarity was right less is more.

Harmonia had on her crown and her sparkly bow that Rarity gave her for her 5th birthday a couple of months back. She even decided to wear a few pieces of jewelry. Her mane was done in a fancy French braid on the side.

Twilight mane was in an elegant updo her gold crown sitting upon her mane. She changed from a regal look to something more sophisticated and relaxing. It was a lavender dress with white pearls and white diamonds around the waist.

“Hey wasn't I going to wear that mommy?” Harmonia asks.

“Technically it's mine in the first place, you just took it out of my closest without my permission.” Twilight scolds.

Harmonia face reddens slightly from embarrassment. “I guess I should have told you.” Harmonia mumbles.

“It's fine let's go see what your daddy is doing.” Twilight said.

Twilight and Harmonia walk down the hallway to find Discord, but stops when they notice that something off about the interior of the castle. “Mommy? Is it just me or have you always had the hallway this bouncy?”

Twilight stops climbing the stairs and looks at her surroundings. It was not the hallway that they always enter, it was more of a bouncy hallway floors. “Discord!” Twilight yells.

Discord appears in a flash. “Yes my dear?” He asks his tone innocent.

“Why is the hallway floor made into a bouncy house floor?” Twilight wonders. Her and Harmonia continue to bounce.

“Why? So it will be fun for our guests.” Discord chuckles as he watches his wife and daughter bounce.

“Daddy, I don't think the royal family would want something like this at a dinner party.” Harmonia explains.

“But I thought you loved bouncy hallways?” Discord asks.

“I do, but for our guests… Maybe no….” Harmonia mutters.

Discord looks at his daughter wondering what has gotten into her. He then poofs the floor back to normal leaving the two to hit the ground with a thud. “Ouch!” They both said in unison.

He then poofs the three into the dining room of Twilight's castle.

“Harmonia, what gives? You love pulling pranks on our guests.” Discord said, his tone sounding slightly offended and hurt.

“I still do it just can we be a normal family for one night? Please?” Harmonia begs.

Discord and Twilight both looked at each other confused by what their daughter was requesting.

"Daddy, they are normal ponies like mommy. They're not like either of us. So please just for one night can we be an average family without chaos roaming around the castle? Whaddaya say?" Harmonia asks.

Twilight pauses for a moment thinking to herself, she looks at her daughter confused. "One normal night?" She asks.

"Yes! Just please be polite." Harmonia said, begs at her mother.

"As much as I love you both we just need a normal night, just this once." Harmonia explains.

"So like a normal eve? Just this once you ask." Discord asks.

Harmonia nods. "They will be arriving here at six o'clock. So can we please get rid of this?" Harmonia asks, she widens her paws at the chaotic rampage that was happening throughout the house.

Twilight and Discord look around the castle, their daughter was right. This was a mess. "Okay, how about this. Your father and I will clean up while you go upstairs and find something to wear." Twilight said, making a deal with her daughter.

"Okay deal." Harmonia said, she poofs upstairs to her room.

***

Blueblood, Trixie and their children Illusion and Mystic make their way through the park of Ponyville. Blueblood and Trixie had a map, arguing half way there. "Are you sure you're reading the map correctly dear?" Trixie asks slightly annoyed.

"Of course I am." Blueblood said.

Illusion stops and recognizes that this is were he first met Harmonia. "Wait! This is the place where I first saw her! Harmony, with her chaotic magic. And she looked like Diana The Huntress!" He said, his tone rather excited that they were getting near.

Blueblood looks at his son slightly confused. "Who?" He asks.

Trixie sighs. "He's just expressing himself, dear. "Just like Trixie always says: Just simply say what's in your heart."

Blueblood grumbles something under his breath, before speaking up. "Illusion, your mother's speaking in third person again. I say we take a rain check and go back to Canterlot."

"No! This night is extremely important to me and I will not have you two- I mean three mess it up. Tonight can not be absurd! Just please don't be embarrass me or be completely rude, Mystic. Mother and Father [i)please don't make a fuss about the castle or about the food being served tonight." Illusion said.

"Fine, we will be on our best behavior. Right Mystic?" Blueblood asks. Mystic rolls her eyes, clearly annoyed that she has to play nice for there family.

"Thank you Mystic." Illusion said, grateful that his sister was willing to cooperate even if it was just for one night.

"Just so you know you owe me." Mutters Mystic, but her brother still overheard her.

***

There was a knock on the door, Twilight quickly gallops to the door and answers it.

“Good evening! We are so pleased to have your wonderful family at our lovely home.” Twilight greets the royal family.

Twilight calm expression is quickly replaced with one of distaste. “Trixie?!” Her iris shrunk to the size of dimes.

Trixie gives her a smug smile. “Right you are your highness.” she announces.

Chapter 18

Chapter 18:Chaotic Dates & Dinner Dates (Part 2)

Illusion gave a small fake cough and a stern look. “And thank you for hosting this wonderful dinner!” Trixie said, plastering a fake smile upon her face.

Twilight steps aside to let the royal family through. “Well this is going to be one very eventful night.” Twilight thought to herself.

She sighed as she made her way to the kitchen.

Trixie and Starlight greeted each other as they wrapped hooves around each others necks.

“Trixie it's so great to see you.” Starlight said.

“You too! It's been forever! We have seriously got to stop letting time slip away from us. So how are you enjoying the high society life?” Starlight wonders her voice full of excitement.

“Oh it's just wonderful!” Trixie beams. She grins at her best friend, however Starlight could tell there was something off with her best friend.

“Trix? Are you okay?” Starlight wonders, clearly worried for her best friend.

“Of course I'm fine! Never better!” She beams.

Starlight looks at Trixie a bored expression mounts her face. “Trixie, I can tell when something is bothering you. You know you can tell me.” Said Starlight, she places a hoof on Trixie's back.

Trixie bit her bottom lip, her eyes down castes. “Can we talk about this later?” She asks, her voice sounding small and inaudible.

Starlight raises an eyebrow. “Um… sure?” Starlight tone was laced with curiosity and worrying for her friend.

Trixie and Starlight turn back to the others in the room and joins them.

“Thank you so much for having us over your highness.” Trixie said, plastering another fake smile in her direction.

“Oh you are very welcome!” Twilight smiles back, her voice a bit too cheery.

“Why do I sense tension in the room between you two?” Tempest wonders.

Twilight scoffs. “What? There's no tension, just two friends getting along and hosting a small royal dinner.” Twilight grins.

Tempest looks between the two. “Mhm… if you say so.” Her tone was blunt and nonchalant.

“If you need me your highness I will be right down the hall, patrolling.” Tempest was about to walk off, but Twilight stops her.

“Tempest, wait! Why don't you join us for tonight? You're apart of this family too after all.” Twilight gave a warm smile.

Her smile also read 'please do not leave me alone in this room with her’.

“Yeah, come on, Tempest! Join us for tonight.” Agrees Starlight.

Tempest bit the inside of her cheek, contemplating her choice. She sighs. “..... Fine if you insist.” She gives a light hearted smile to the group.

***

The first two and half hours of the dinner went by smoothly, surprisingly. Discord haven’t caused any kind of chaos...yet or the fact that Trixie and Twilight wasn’t at each other's throats...yet.

Twilight looks around the dinner table. Trixie, Blueblood and their children were on the left side, Twilight was at the head of the table, Discord and Harmonia was on the right side, Tempest and Starlight was both within the kitchen, Tempest was keeping a close eye between the two mares.

There was so much tension in the room, you would be able to cut it with a knife. The dish that was in front of them was Hay Tamale Pie; Starlight’s favourite dish.

“I wasn’t aware that this was a silent dinner.” Discord said, looking around the room.

Trixie sighed, looking at the slightly lukewarm dish in front of her. Twilight rolls her eyes and uses her magical aura to move her fork around in her pie.

“You know, I made this when I was a filly! I always used to burn the edges of the pie but I have gotten better! You know, I wanted to be a chef before I met Twilight!” Starlight said, trying to break the silence as she took a bite of her cake.

“Really? Well that’s very interesting Starlight.” pipes up Tempest.

“This dinner is more awkward than the royal summents I had to attend to four weeks ago.” Mumbles Blueblood.

“Might as well make some conversation with her, besides this dinner only lasts for two hours.” Twilight stops spinning her fork around her food and looks at her guests.

“So Mystic, how are you enjoying school?” Twilight wonders.

Mystic was cut off guard, she was making cunning glares at Harmonia. “Oh! Um…. Great! The private school that I attended teaches so many advance spells that only Year 3 knows, and I've already mastered a few of them.” Mystic brags as she plasters a fake smile onto her face.

Twilight smiles back.

“You know Illusion helps me with a few of my magic shows in Saddle Arabia over the summer two years ago.” Brags Trixie.

“That's exactly how I got my cutie mark as well.” Illusion said, slightly bashful. His sister may love bragging about herself, but he hated it. He doesn't like to be put on a pedestal all the time, unlike his sister.

“Well that's wonderful to hear, it's it sweetheart.” Discord grins.

Twilight still continues to stick her fork sharply in her food.

“Yep, very. So Harmonia what did you learn in school today sweetheart?” Twilight asks, turning her attention back to her daughter.

“It was great! We learned about the Art of Equestria in History today. It was rather a snooze fest however.” Harmonia gave a light hearted chuckle.

“Well I happen to find history fascinating. You know Starswirl was Princess Luna and Celestia’s private teacher. It was back when they were younger so they never exactly lived with their parents, Starswirl raised them- or so I heard.” Illusion explains, looking mostly directly at Harmonia.

“Yeah, we actually learned about that four weeks ago.” Harmonia said, giving a small smile.

“I think I had a book about that somewhere in my library.” Twilight said.

“You always have a book for something.” Discord mutters, laughing at his own comment.

Illusion and Harmonia look at each other, slightly blushing. Mystic notices this and growls underneath her breath, obviously jealous of Harmonia.

The two sit there staring at each other, smirking.

“Hey, you want to ditch this snooze fest of a dinner?” Harmonia asks. They were both sending telepathic messages to each other.

“Of course! But how do we ditch our parents?” Illusion asks, his eyes travel over to the group.

“Leave that to me.” Harmonia said, giving a soft smirks.

Harmonia held one of her paws behind her back, the other one still holding the fork, eating. Harmonia snaps her paw sending a piece of Hay Tamale Pie flying across the room landing in Twilight's mane.

Twilight stops and puts her fork down. “Seriously, Trixie?” Twilight's tone was rather accusingly.

Trixie looked at the Princess of Friendship, slightly confused. “What?” She wonders.

Once Twilight didn't answer, she bursts out into laughter. “Oh yeah? Well how would you like some of this?” Twilight flings a piece of cake onto Trixie's evening wear.

“Hey! I didn't even do anything.” Trixie said, her voice getting angry.

“Yeah right, I've held up being nice for far too long tonight!” Twilight yells back, still fling food.

“Girls, if we could just all calm down-” Discord reasons. Both of them look at him with glaring eyes.

“No!” They both shout in unison.

They continue to fling food and insults to each other. Some of the food managed to land on to Discord and Prince Blueblood.

“Okay! Now it's on! How about you have some dessert. ” Discord said. He magical summons whipped cream pies to the mix of the commotion. While throwing, some of the cream from the pie lands on Blueblood’s suit, he screams.

“Urghhh!! My suit! My new suit!” he yelled, falling back on the floor.

“My hair!” Whines Mystic.

“Can I see one of those pies?” Twilight asks her husband.

“Have at it.” Discord said. Twilight grabs one in her magical aura and flings it in Trixie's face.

“My dish!” whines Starlight, watching all her hard work go to waste. “Do you know how long it took me to make that for them?! It took forever!!” Starlight said to Tempest.

“On the bright side, the kitchen is getting redecorating.” Tempest said.

“Yeah! With my food! This is going to take forever to clean up!” complains Starlight, ignites her horn to create a bubble around herself and Tempest.

Tempest rolls her eyes, slightly annoyed. She removes some whip cream from her armor.

“Aren't you going to stop this?” Starlight asks.

Tempest chuckles. “Nah! Let them fight; this is more entertaining than the time I took over Canterlot.” She smirks.

Harmonia and Illusion both looked at each other, smirking. “Okay, let's go.” Harmonia said.

Illusion smiled back, both of them silently leaving the feuding families behind.

***

The warm night air, silently blows through the town of Ponyville. Illusion and Harmonia both breathing a sigh of relief.

“You think they will be okay in there?” Illusion asks, slightly worried.

“They will hopefully cool off in about an hour or two.” Harmonia explains.

“Does your family always throw food at random guests?” Illusion asks, giving her a slight smirk.

“Only to the ones my mommy doesn't like. And apparently she doesn't enjoy your Mommy’s visit too much.” Harmonia grimace slightly.

Illusion gave a light hearten chuckle. “That was pretty crazy what you pulled back there.” He said.

Harmonia blushed. “Well at least it's a night to remember.” Harmonia said.

“You have a point there.” Illusion said he then looks at her. “We must have got caught within the crossfire as well.” He looks at the both of them, laughing.

“What do you mean?” Harmonia wonders.

Illusion finds a tiny stream that was behind Twilight's castle where the School of Friendship was. He walks up to it, looking at both of their reflections. “See what I mean?” He said.

Illusion was right they both got caught within the food fight. Both of them had bits and pieces of Starlight's pie in their manes and whip cream and crumbs from the pie within their fur.

Harmonia and Illusion both laughed at their appearance, but it was short lived. Illusion stops and silently stares at The School of Friendship. Luna's moon glimmering on the school's interior design.

“So your mother runs this school alone?” Illusion asks.

“Not exactly,” Harmonia stares at the school along with him. “I have my aunt's that help her run it.”

“But don't they have life's of their own to manage?” He asks, slightly confused.

“They do, but somehow they still manage to run a school added into their daily lives.” Harmonia said.

She sighs, thinking as the rakes the food out of her mane. “What's wrong?” He asks, he's tone gentle.

“It's just- nothing.” She mutters.

“Come on, you can trust me. If you are worried that I'm anything like my sister, then I'm here to tell you I'm not.” He said, giving Harmonia a gentle smile.

“.... It's just I always prove or feel like I have to live up to my Mommy's standards. I mean she's an Element Barrier, saved Equestria more than a dozen times and she's the Princess of Friendship.” Harmonia complains.

“.... Seems like you have a lot to live up to.” He mutters to her.

“Believe me you have no idea! It's like everypony expects you to be somepony you know your not, yet they think they have your whole life planned out for you.” She complains.

Illusion stays silent, listening for a few more minutes before putting his input. “I mean I'm supposed to be crowned in two years…. No less.” She rambles.

“Aren't you supposed to do some “princess worthy” task before getting crowned?” Illusion asks.

“.... That's what I thought as well.” Harmonia mutters, her eyes down casted.

Illusion rubs Harmonia's back, giving her a hug. “Come on, let's go back inside. I think the auguing of both our mothers seizes for the night.” Illusion said.

Both of them smile at each other and they both head back inside for the rest of the dinner.

***

Starlight quietly sat down at the table, looking at her now cold pie as Discord and Blueblood were calming down their wives. Tempest sat down next to Starlight, taking a bite from the cake she had.

“Well, tonight was a total bust!” Starlight complains, taking a big slice onto her fork and eating it.

“You’re telling me! You girls couldn't last for two hours? Could you?” Tempest asks, her tone blunt.

Neither of them spoke.

Tempest mutters. “I knew this dinner would end in disaster. I couldn't sense so much tension in the room it was like cutting it with a knife.” She whispers to Starlight.

“You're telling me-” Starlight mutters back.

The door to the kitchen swings open to reveal Illusion and Harmonia. “And where have you two been exactly?” Tempest asks, her tone slightly amused.

“We just needed to get some fresh air, that's all.” Illusion said, his tone relaxed.

“Well okay then. Your mother's have finally calmed down! It’s such a bummer that no pony ate my pie! Hey, do you kids want to try it? I made it myself!” Starlight said, levitating two small plates of pie towards Harmonia and Illusion.

“.... No thank you, Miss. Glimmer.” Illusion said, politely turning down the pie. “Besides it's getting late and we really should be heading home.” Illusion looks to his family, Mystic was already asleep in the floor.

Starlight sighs. “Well if you insist, then I won't overstay your welcome.” She said, sitting her pie down on the table.

Starlight looked over at Twilight who was still quite uninterested in socializing for the remainder of the night. She sighs. “I will be more than happy to walk you all out.” Starlight said, looking at Trixie's family.

She leads them all down the dimly lit hallway of Twilight's castle. “So much for one normal night.” Illusion thought to himself.

Once they reached the door. Trixie stops behind them. “You all go on ahead. I will be there in a few.” Trixie said.

Illusion, Blueblood and Mystic all looked at their mother for a moment, until they decided to exist the castle. The castle door closes with Blueblood's magical aura.

Starlight looks at Trixie slightly confused. “Trix? Is everything okay?” Starlight asks, slightly worried for her friend.

“First off, let Trixie start off by saying that: She is sorry about the dinner scene back there.” Trixie said, her tone was sincere.

“Oh it's fine, really. No need to worry about that.” Starlight said, brushing off Trixie's apology.

Trixie sighs. “.... Remember when you asked me if I was enjoying the high society life?” she asks.

Starlight nods. “Yeah? What about it?” She asks.

“To tell you the truth… Trixie isn't. She is always seen as somepony that has to live up to fit other ponies standards. One slip up and Trixie's family's reputation is down the drain. Trixie just feels so pressured and with Blueblood, it just makes it worse.” Trixie complains.

“Normally Twilight could relate to being in your hooves at the moment. But since you two are rarely on speaking terms at the moment. I can't have much say so in this.” Starlight explains.

“Of course you do! You can talk to Princess Twilight about letting Trixie and the kids move in. I mean she has a million rooms in the castle I'm sure she could spare a few rooms.” Trixie says.

Starlight bit her lip. “.... I'm not so sure Trix.” She said.

“Come on, Starlight. Please.” Trixie whimpers.

Starlight groans. “.... Fine I'll see what I can do.” She mutters.

Trixie gave a wide grin to Starlight. “Thank you, Starlight. You are the best!” She grins. She then hurries to leave out of the castle.

Starlight smiles into the darkened night as she watched her best friend walk home with her family. Starlight then shuts the door turning in for night. However, for some odd strange reason she couldn't help but feel like she was being watched, sure enough she was.

***

Celestia sits in her throne room, her mane looking a tad frazzled. “Ugh! I can’t do this anymore I have to tell him.” She said. She brings a scroll and quill into her golden aura.

Her elegant handwriting flowing swiftly from the ink onto the parchment.

“Dear Discord,

“I should have told you this a LONG time ago, but…”

Celestia paused for a moment, then decided to cross out what she was going to say. A look of concerned etched onto her face.

“What’s the use?” She mutters to herself, she toss the crumbled scroll to the side.

Celestia’s head and heart were within battle with herself, she sighs as she pulls out another parchment.

***

Luna’s night had befallen across the land of Equestria, ponies already snug in their beds after a long day of school or work, except one household was still wide awake at this hour.

Discord and Harmonia were sitting on their couch within the castle’s library, joy and laughter filled the room.

“There is no way that you saved all of Equestria from Queen Chrysalis, Daddy. Besides Mommy always saves Equestria from certain doom.” Harmonia said.

Discord looks at his daughter with disbelief. “I happen to have saved Equestria once! Your mother just happened to be captured by Queen Chrysalis. So it was up to me to save everypony from certain doom.” Discord explains.

“You do realize your not the only one who saved Equestria, right?” Starlight asks, a playful look was displayed on her face.

“Besides, it was me who saved you all. You got captured as well, remember?” She said.

“Now, I am so confused.” Mutters Harmonia.

“Confused about what sweetie?” Twilight asks, bring in a tray of late night drinks.

“Mommy? Did Daddy really save Equestria from Queen Chrysalis or was it Aunt Starlight?” Harmonia asks.

Twilight looks at Discord. “Oh, so you tell her this tale?” Twilight said, her expression light hearted.

“Yes and she doesn’t believe me.” Discord huffs.

Twilight gave a small smile while rolling her eyes in a playful manner. “Actually sweetie, your aunt Starlight, Trixie, Thorax and your father all worked together to take down Chrysalis.” she explains.

“See I told you.” Discord mutters.

“Well then where were you at mommy?” Harmonia asks.

“I was captured along with your uncle Spike and your aunts.” Twilight said, explaining further more.

“Oh.” Harmonia said.

“Basically I saved you all. Your mom, dad, aunts and basically everypony was captured except me.” Starlight explains.

“What about Tempest?” Harmonia asks.

“She wasn’t there, because she was on vacation.” Starlight explains.

Tempest, who had walked in at the correct moment, spoke up. “Basically they couldn’t afford me.” She explains, her tone blunt.

“Oh! Hey Tempest, what are you doing up?” Twilight asks.

“Partoling as usual, your highness. But I actually got this from the mail?” Tempest said, her last sentence coming more like a confused question.

“Who delivers mail at eight o’clock at night?” Starlight wonders.

Tempest shrugs. “No clue, but it’s addressed to you, Discord.” Tempest said, handing the scroll over to him.

Discord looks at his wife, his eyebrow arched. “... Okay?” He said, he takes the scroll from Tempest, unscrolling the letter.

“From Celestia?” He thought. His eyes scanned the letter, his expression went from concerned to bewilderment.

“Is everything okay Dissy?” Twilight asks, snapping her husband out of his thoughts.

“Mhm, um.. I have to go.” Discord said, unsure of how to explain his reason for leaving at this sudden hour.

Starlight and Tempest gave each other a skeptical look.

“Apparently your teacher, Harmonia needs to have a talk about your behavior in school with me.” Discord said.

“But I thought that’s already been discussed?” Tempest questions.

“It has. Harmony what did you do this time?” Twilight wonders.

“I swear I did nothing.” Harmonia said, throwing her hands up in defense her eyes clearly displaying innocents.

“And why does Celestia want to see you at this hour anyways?” Starlight questions.

“Does it look like I know.” Discord said, his tone unamused.

“Look I’ll be back in time for fuzzball to get her nightly storytime routine. It will just be real quick I promise.” Discord said, looking at Twilight.

Twilight sighs. “Alright.”

Discord snaps his claw, making himself vanish in a flash.

***

He appears in the Canterlot Castle of Princesses Celestia and Luna.

“Celestia, I came upon your request is there something you need to talk with me about Harmony?” Discord asks.

“Oh I am so glad you could make it!” Celestia said, her flowing mane looked frazzled and unkempt.

She kind of had she look of a psycho, like Twilight from Lesson Zero, but way worse.

“Uh, Tia are you okay?” Discord asks.

“I’m fine.” Celestia said.

“You don’t look fine. It looks like you committed a crime. Should I be considered?” Discord wonders, slightly worried for his friend.

“I’ve just been doing a lot of thinking and you just won’t leave my mind. Why? Well I wish I knew.” Celestia mutters.

Discord looks at Celestia, no knowing how to respond.

“Remember that letter you sent me two weeks ago? You- you did a comma in between dearest and my name. Did you intend this?” Celestia asks.

“Tia, that may have been a mistake I-” Discord said, but his sentence stopped short when Celestia places a light kiss on his cheek.

"It’s clear to see that I have overstayed my welcome.” Discord said, slowly backing towards the door.

"No! Wait!" Celestia called after Discord. She thought for a moment, before giving Discord a flirtatious grin.

"You know...I never did understand why you fell for somepony like...Twilight.” She said.

Discord turned around at Celestia's words. "What do you mean, Tia?" He asked slowly.

“I mean why fall for somepony like her when you deserve somepony so much better.... somepony of higher status.” Celestia said, her tone flirtatious and rather mysterious.

Discord was taken aback by Celestia's words. "Tia..." Discord said, trying to find a way out of this conversation. "Is this about what happened when we were kids? Tia...I don't feel that way anymore..." he said, but his heart was thinking otherwise.

"So you admit you felt something for me? Maybe...something more?" Celestia said, her expression sly.

“Maybe then, but not now.” Discord said, his voice firm.

Celestia's glare darkened a tad. “What.”

"Look, Celestia." Discord said, his voice faltering from the glare Celestia gave him.

"You are a really pretty mare but...I'm afraid you were too late. Twilight has my heart now...and..." Discord tried to continue, but the look Celestia was giving him was shutting him up.

Celestia flares her wings at Discord, but puts them down by her side. She closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. “Fine. You win.” Her tone was creepily nonchalant.

Discord arched an eyebrow, but Celestia continues. “But just remember: You can always use a mare of higher status.” She smirks at him.

“I have to go.” Discord mutters to himself. He then shuts the door behind him, but pauses thinking to himself as he stroked his goat-tee.

Chapter 19

Chapter 19:The School of Friendship

Twilight Sparkle’s POV:

The morning sun of Celestia's sun soak through Twilight's kitchen window. Twilight stands at the kitchen sink, thinking to herself as the castle remains quite from last night dinner fiasco.

She takes a deep breath, levitating her coffee cup to her lips taking a sip. She enjoys these quiet moments to herself, sometimes. Twilight gasped, suddenly remembers that today was a very important and special day, today was no other than Bring Your Child To Work Day.

“I can't wait to show Harmonia what I do throughout the day!” Twilight thought to herself, giving a wide grin. She sits her coffee cup down on the counter. She quietly makes her way to her daughter's room.

*

Twilight opens her daughter's door with ease. She gives a soft smile as she watches her little girl sleep peacefully. She softly nudges her fur. “Come on, sweetheart you have to get ready.” Twilight spoke her tone gentle.

Harmonia groans softly. “Ready for what?” She mumbles, still half asleep.

“Remember today is Bringing Your Child To Work Day. Don't tell me you forgot already.” Said Twilight, she gently brushes a strand of white mane from her daughter face.

Harmonia yawns. “Of course not! I'll be ready in a few.” She said. Her eyes still slightly tired as she doses back to sleep.
Twilight gave a small smile. “Okay, well I will be back in a few to come and get you.” She said.

Twilight then turns to leave. Harmonia was still glazed with sleep until the words: bring your child to work day rings in her ears. “It's Bring Your Child To Work Day…” She mumbles to herself.

“It's…. Bring...Your-” Harmonia stops her eyes widen and she was fully alert and awake. “It's Bring Your Child To Work Day!” She squeals. She jumps out of bed, quickly getting ready. “Finally I get to see what mommy does for a living. I mean other that being The Princess of Friendship and all.”

*

Applejack POV:

“Honey Crisp, sugarcube. We have to go.” Applejack said, motioning for daughter to exist her room.

Applejack was already thirty minutes behind meeting with the girls. “Why do I have to go?” Honey asks.

“Because it's “Bring Your Child To Work Day!” Don't you want to see what your mama does while you're being homeschool by your mama Rara?” Applejack asks.

Honey stays silent. “Come on, you may even make some new friends while you're there.” Said Applejack.

Honey thinks to herself. “.... But what if nopony wants to be friends with a blind pegasus? Who looks nothing like her parents?” She asks.

Applejack opens the door. She looks at her daughter, a melancholy expression was on her face. “.... Then they haven't taken time to know the real you. Just because you are blind in your left eye doesn't mean you still can't do extraordinary things! Don't let your disability limit you and don't let fear stop you from being happy.” Applejack said, she gives her daughter a soft hug.

“Hasn't mama Rara always told you to “Shine bright, like a beautiful shining star? The shining star we know you are.” She asks.

Honey nods. “Yes Mama AJ.” She takes in a heavy sigh. “I think I'm ready to see what you do.” She grins.

Applejack chuckles to herself. “That's my girl.”

“Now come on, I will grab us a few apples to go. You go right ahead, I'll meet you in the front.” She explains. Applejack leaves the room, leaving Honey Crisp to think to herself for a moment. She smiles to herself, remembering her mother's words.

“I just hope your right.” She softly mutters to herself. She grabs her saddlebag off the hook beside her bed and straps it on her back. Walking out of the room she runs into her Granny Smith.

“I'm so sorry, Granny!” Apologizes Honey Crisp.

“Ah, it's okay, sugar! I know you didn't mean to! Besides these old bones have been through worse.” Says Granny Smith. Honey Crisps, helps the elderly pony to her hoofs.

“Why thank you, Hun.” She said, giving her a warm smile.

“You’re welcome!” Honey beams.

“You know, I heard you two talking. I didn't mean to over hear, sweetheart, but you know your ma is right.” Granny said, her tone was gentle.

“Now, I know you gotta go soon, but I need to tell you something important.” Granny said. She walks up to Honey Crisp, she leans her muzzle and whispers in her ear.

“If they stare, let them stare. You can't blend in when you're born to stand out.” She whispers into Honey’s ear. Granny Smith pulls away from Honey Crisp giving her a firm but gentle smile.

“Now go on, your ma is outside waiting for you.” She said.

Honey smiles at her grandmother, giving her a hug before leaving.

*

Rarity's POV:

“Think this outfit will be okay, mother?” Ophelia asks, looking at her dress.

“Darling, you do know that your only there to observe, right?” Rarity asks.

“Yes, but it never hurts to make a good first impression. Isn't that what you've always said mother?” Ophelia asks.

“Indeed! But you're only there for one day. It's not like you go there.” Rarity gave a light hearted laugh.

“I think both of my girls look beautiful.” Capper swoons at the sight of his two perfect girls.

“Thank you, Capper.” Rarity said.

“And please do not try to swindle the other kids today while I'm teaching.” Rarity pleads.

“But-” Ophelia said, but Capper cuts her off.
“You heard your mother, Ophelia.” Capper said, his voice slightly strearn.

“Fine, but no promises.” Ophelia mutters.

“Duchess…” scolds Capper.

Ophelia rolls her eyes. “Now come along dear. We have to meet your aunt's at the school.”

“You girls have a wonderful day today!” Beams Capper as he waves goodbye to the girls.

“We will.” Rarity smiles back.

*

Pinkie Pie's POV:

“Dad? Are you sure you know how to bake a cake?” Cotton Berry asks.

“Of course! I've watched your mom bake them for awhile now. Besides, I just want to do something nice for your mother before she heads to work with you two.” Party Favor said.

Confetti Pop looks at the oven. “Uh… Daddy?” Confetti tail was jittery.

“I mean how hard can it be?” Party Favor rambles.

Cotton Berry's eyes widen at the sight. “What is it Cotton?” He asks.

Cotton was unable to speak, instead he points his hoof to the oven.

Party Favor turns around, his eyes widen. He uses his magic to open the oven, the oven bursting out with smoke.

The kids and Party Favor, both cough, trying to clearing the smoke.

Pinkie Pie walks in, humming happily to herself. “Are my two little-” she stops and starts to cough. She opens her eyes, shocked at the scene before her.

“I leave for five minutes and come back to this! What happened?” Pinkie Pie asks, still coughing.

Confetti grabs the fire extinguisher and sprays the oven down. Spraying both herself and her twin brother as well as their parents in the process.

“Apparently it, can be very hard.” Party Favor mutters. “This is why I stick to balloon making.” He snores.

*

Fluttershy’s POV:

“Tree Hugger? Have you seen Meadow Bliss? I've looked in his room, but he wasn't there.” Fluttershy said her tone slightly worried.

“Relax Flutters,” Tree Hugger said, she had her eyes closed clearly she was meditating.
“I sent him to feed the animals outside. He should be back in a few.” She breaths.

“While we wait, would you like to try some meditation before you leave. It's very calming.” She said.

Fluttershy looks at the clock. “I guess I could spare just a few minutes.” Fluttershy mutters. Fluttershy relaxes her body, closing her eyes and intermediating the same pose the Tree Hugger was doing.

She felt at peace with herself for a good fifteen minutes. “Um Mom? Don't you think we should be going?” Meadow snaps his mother out of her peacefulness.

She jumps, slightly startled by her son’s voice. Meadow gives a light hearted chuckle. “Sorry Mom, I didn't mean to scare you, but we really need to be going.” He points to the clock.

“Oh my! I didn't realize the time.” She said.

Fluttershy looks at her son. “We better go then.” she said, as she hurries out the door.

*

Rainbow Dash POV:

“Hey kiddo you up for a race?” Flash Magnus asks.

“Sure, but only if Mom can come.” Prism said, scarfing down the last of his breakfast.

“You know I enjoy a good family competition.” Rainbow Dash smirks.

“How many time do we have to say it this isn't a competition.” Flash said.

“Honey? Have you met me? News flash! When your with me just about everything is a competition.” Rainbow Dash scoffs.

“.... Can't argue with that.” Flash said, his tone blunt.

“Now come on! Last one to the school is a rotten egg!” Rainbow Dash shouts, leaving quickly from the house.

In a hurry, all three of them take off to the sky. Two of the three leaving behind a trail of colorful streaks, Rainbow Dash’s being the most noticeable.

“Think you can keep up if I made a made a Sonic Rainboom?” Rainbow Dash shouts to her son.

“Are you crazy? No way!” Prism shouts back, trying his best to keep up with his mom.

“Well you're about to find out!” Smirks Rainbow. “One, Two, Three, Go!” Rainbow Dash took off the sound barrier broke, ringing in Prism and Flash’s ears.

“Oh come on!” Whines Prism.

***

Twilight sits at her desk, quietly filling out paperwork. Harmonia groans, clearly she was bored from all the waiting and watching.

Harmonia looks at her mother. "I thought you said your job was exciting? This is totally the opposite!" She whines.

Twilight still looks down at her paperwork, never taking her eyes off of it. “It's all about responsibility sweetheart.” She explains.

“I can be responsible!” Harmonia huffs.

Twilight lays her quill down and looks up at her daughter. “Harmonia, do you know what responsibility means?” She asks, her tone gentle.

Harmonia shook her head, clearly not understand.

“Responsibility: Is fact of having a duty to deal with something on their own. For example: If I give you a simple task, say-” Twilight thought for a moment, an idea came to mind. “.... I gave you the option of letting you watch over one of your Aunt's classroom's, then it would be your responsibility to do so.” Twilight lectures.

Harmonia eyes lit up with an idea. “Hey mommy? Can I go explore the school?” She asks.

“Sure! I don't mind, but stay in this wing of the school.” Twilight warns.

“Will do, mommy!” Harmonia said.

***

Harmonia wonders around the school building, looking for something to do. The tiny draconques stumbles upon a classroom, all of the students eyes on her. Harmonia’s eyes widen at the sight, she was beginning to feel a bit nervous.

Harmonia sighs. “Okay this is your chance to prove to mommy that you can be responsible.” Harmonia thought to herself. She takes a deep breath and gives a wide smile to the group of fillies and colts, along with a few other non-pony species. “Hi! My name is Harmonia Sparkle and I will be your teacher for today!” She beams.

The class of twelve students looked at her, slightly confused. “But… where is Miss. Rarity?” One of the student’s asked.

“Does anypony have any other questions besides where Miss. Rarity is?” Harmonia asks.

The twelve students said nothing. “Good! Now today we will be learning…” Harmonia grabs her aunt’s book off the podium. It was much heavy than she had expected. Harmonia looks at the book with a rather uninteresting look on her face.

Harmonia closes the book. “You know what I’m starting to rethink this whole responsibility task.” She mumbles to herself.

Rarity walks into the classroom, slightly confused why her niece was in her classroom. “Hello, Harmonia dear. May I ask why are you in my classroom?” She questions.

Harmonia gives a light hearted laugh. “Hehe. Um… playing teacher?” she gives a small smile to her aunt.

Rarity giggled and softly pats Harmonia on the head. “Well, that’s nice darling but I think it’s time for me to take over this class for a little bit.” she explains.

Harmonia sighs. “Alright.” She begins to walk out of the classroom, but Rarity stops her.

“If you are looking for something to do. I just bought Ophelia for the day. Maybe you two can find something to do together.” Rarity smiles at her.

Harmonia eyes widen with excitement. “Okay! Thanks Aunt Rarity.” Harmonia then hurries off down the hallway looking for her friend.

***

Harmonia wonders the deserted hallways for the next fifteen minutes. “Aunt Rarity said she brought Ophelia today. Where could she be? I checked just about every classroom here and didn’t even see her.” Harmonia mumbles to herself.

Harmonia begins to slow her walking, her ears perked up at a very distant sound. She follows the sound, which leads her to a room on the West end of the school’s building and hallway. Curiosity got the best of her, Harmonia opens the door to reveal five faces.

Those same five faces look back at her a sigh of relief washes over them.

Harmonia enters the room. “Um..hello?” She said her tone sounding slightly awkward.

“Wait! No! Don’t-” The five shouted.

But, it was too late.

Harmonia let the door shut behind her, they groan in frustration. She looks at the room of unhappy faces.

“What?” Harmonia askes, slightly confused.

Ophelia narrows her eyes at Harmonia. “Nevermind now!” She snaps at the tiny draconquess.

Meadow sighs. “Let’s just say you were our only hope out of here.” He mumbles loud enough for them to hear, however his voice remained calm.

Harmonia was still confused. “What do you mean? The door is-” Harmonia tries to wiggle the doorknob, but it would not open. “Unlocked? Well crap!” She mutters the last bit to herself.

She turns around toward the group, smiling bashfully. Clearly she was embarrassed by her former action.

“Hehe. Umm sorry about that.” She said.

“Well, time for Plan B! Let’s burn down the school!” Confetti Pop said, her tone almost too excited about that plan.

Prism looked at the young mare. “Yeah, how about we call that Plan Z…” he said.

“I agree. I don’t think that is necessary…” Honey Crisp mumbles.

“Aww… way to take the fun out of it.” Whines Confetti Pop.

A cheerful, yet a voice that Harmonia recognizes comes over the intercom of the classroom. It was her Aunt Starlight.

“Welcome to Detention! ” Starlight’s cheerful voice announced over the intercom of the room.

“Okay is it just me. Or is her voice is way too cheerful about detention.” Mutters Cotton Berry.

Wait… did she just say-” Ophelia eyes shrinks to the size of dimes. She started to hyperventilate at the sound of “detention”.

Prism looks over at Ophelia, slightly worried for her. “Uh, is she okay?” He asks.

“I have a perfect school record… t-this can’t on it!” Ophelia’s breath quickens.

Honey Crisp and Harmonia try their best to relax their friend. “Relax… we’ll be out of here soon.” Meadow said, his voice remaining calm and collected.

“Oh that’s helpful.” Harmonia mutters, still rubbing Ophelia’s back.

“Does anyone have any ideas how to get out of here?” Cotton Berry asks.

“I think I may have one.” Prism said. Prism charges at the door, slamming into it.

The group watches as the young colt pegasus slams himself repeatedly at the door. Ophelia watches. “Prism, darling I don’t think that is going to help.” The feline said, her tone blunt towards the pegasus.

“Watch me!” Said Prism, his teeth bared as he rams the door one finally time. Finally, exhaustion takes over him and he is out cold as his tongue sticking out of his mouth.

Harmonia walks over to Prism looking down at his body. She looks back up at her remaining friends. “Great! Now what?!” She said.

“In situations like these we scream for help.” Meadow said.

They tried screaming, but failed to realize that after fifteen minutes of useless screaming, no pony came for help.

Meadow takes a deep breath. “Well that didn’t help…” He mutters.

“We would be out soon enough if somepony didn’t close the door!” Ophelia said, narrowing her eyes at Harmonia.

Harmonia’s tone was defensive. “Come on! Stop pointing hooves or claws in your devise, now is not the time to be playing the “Blame Game.” She said.

“We need to stop arguing and try to work together.” Said Honey Crisp.

“She’s right.” Agrees Cotton Berry.

Harmonia thought for a second. “Guys! I think I have an idea, but I need to try it first to see if it will work.” She explains. The young draconquus closes her eyes, trying her best to focus on her spell. She squeezes her eyes shut as snaps her paw. In a puff of magenta raspberry pink smoke she was free-or so she thought.

Harmonia slowly opens her eyes. “Yay! I’m free! Guys I-” Her voice was full of glee.

But she came face to face with Cotton Berry. He looks at her for a moment, then tries his best to intimidate Starlight’s voice. “Hi! Welcome to detention!” He said.

“OH GIVE ME A BREAK!” Harmonia wales.

“So much for that idea….” mutters Ophelia.

“It’s official we’re going to die in here! We have no food or water!” Confetti Pop said.

“You do know that this isn’t the desert?” Meadow questions her.

“So I’ve been told….” Confetti Pop said, her tone blunt.

Prism sits up for a moment, his eyes crossed. “Sky’s….” he mutters, before passing out again.

Ophelia walks over to Prism, who was still out cold. She uses her paw and slaps him a couple of times. “Wake up!” She screams.

“Does anypony have any water?” Honey asks.

Everypony shook their heads no. Ophelia gives one final slap at Prism. Prism jerks awake. “Prism Bolt wins the race!” He cheers. The five look at Prism in confusion.

“We're still trapped in here genius. There's no race going on.” Harmonia said, her tone blunt.

The group laughs at Harmonia blunt response. She then thinks for a moment. “You know even if I don't know everything about you guys, I'm kind of glad to be trapped in here with you all.” She said.

“You are?” Cotton Berry, asks slightly confused.

“Yeah, I mean it's better than being trapped in here with Crystal for Celestia knows how long.” Harmonia said, rolling her eyes.

“Um who's Crystal exactly?” Prism asks.

Harmonia face twisted to one of disgust. “My cousin.” She explains her tone unamusing.

“I think I met her a couple of weeks ago. I don't see how you put up with her.” Ophelia said.

“To be honest, neither do I.” Mumbles Harmonia.

“Hey well now you have a whole group of new friends to hang out with!” Confetti Pop said, her tone perky and upbeat.

“I do?” Harmonia questions her.

“Of course!” Agrees Prism.

“Wait is anypony going to question this?” Cotton Berry asks anypony in particular.

“Question what exactly?” Meadow asks.

Cotton Berry looks at Harmonia. “If we have already met you. Then how come none of us has meet each other?” Cotton Berry questions.

“Silly Cotton Berry! Don't you know the author is to blame for this! She's the one who writes all the chapters and characters personalities.” Giggles Confetti Pop.

“Well she took nineteen chapters just to get us all together in one room! Who is she anyways?” Complains Cotton Berry.

Harmonia snaps her paws and the name “Vocal Sweets” appears on the board. Harmonia points to it, not saying a word.

“Ohh..” they said in unison.

For the next two hours, the group begin to tell each other jokes and other stories.

For the first time in forever, Harmonia felt like she actually had friends for a change and it made her feel at peace and happy. She didn't feel so alone.

“It would be great if we could all just enroll here, besides going to different schools.” Honey Crisp said.

“That honestly wouldn't be a bad idea.” Meadow said.

The afternoon rays of Celestia's sun hit the window of the classroom, casting a soft warm glow upon the room. The ringing of the bell signal that the last class of the day was over for.

“I swear if I hear that bell ring one more time, it's going to be missing a ring to it.” Complains Prism.

“No, that's actually a good thing! If anypony comes this a way we can bang loudly on the door for help!” Honey Crisp said.

“How about we just make a lot of racket?” Harmonia suggest. “I mean if you haven't noticed I am a draconequus. I can clean this room in a snap.”

“I like the way you think, Harmonia.” Prism said, giving her a smirk.

Harmonia blushes. “Thanks….”

“One…. Two…. Three.... Now!” Harmonia said.

The group slings, clinging and banging any solid or loud objects in the room, all of them being as loud as they can.

Ophelia hears muffled voices from the other side of the door.

“Guys! I think I hear somepony! I think it's our mothers!” Ophelia said, as she listens careful.

***

From outside the hallway stood Twilight and the girls.

“Have you girls seen Harmonia? I told her to stay were I can see her.” Twilight asks, her tone slightly worried.

“She came into my classroom this morning, darling. However, that is the last time I saw her.” Rarity said. “Now that I think about it, Ophelia has been missing as well.” She said.

“I sent Prism to get extra towels for the children who were practicing Buckball and he never returned.” Explains Rainbow Dash.

Applejack’s ears perk up at a distance sound. “Do you girls hear that?” She asks them.

The girls stop their chatter and listen carefully to the sound. The sound was faint, but still a bit loud to fill the hallway, but only from a distance. “Come on, it's coming from down the hallway.” Twilight said, galloping down the hallway.

The girls follow behind her. The stop at a door that was currently shut, but racket continued. “They must be in there.” Said Fluttershy.

Twilight opens the door to reveal a chaotic mess, it looked like a tornado hit the room.

“There you guys are!” Twilight said.

“What were you all doing in here?” Question Starlight.

“Oh you know just hanging out.” Sarcasm leaks in Prism’s voice.

“Are you kidding! We were trapped in here all day!” Ophelia shrieks.

Meadow places a calming hoof on Ophelia. “Dude, you need to chill we're saved now.” He said, his voice calming.

Harmonia snaps the room back to normal. “On the bright side, I made friends for the first time in forever it feels like.” She beams to her mother.

“Well, I'm glad to hear that! I know you all must be starving. How about we all go to Sugar Cube Corner and grab something to eat?” Twilight suggest.

Confetti Pop eyes widen at the word eat. “Food!” She squeals, in a hurry she was out the door.

The mothers and children giggle. “Come on! I think I still have some cake waiting at home. You are welcomed to come with us Twilight.” Offers Pinkie Pie.

“Thanks for the invitation, Pinkie Pie! However, I think I'll have to pass for the day.” Twilight said, kindly rejecting her friends request.

“It's okay, Twilight! I understand you and your Princess duties must come first.” Pinkie giggles.

“Actually, I need to go talk with Celestia for a few. She will be so pleased to hear your friendship progress, Harmonia.” Twilight smiles gently at her daughter.

Twilight looks back at the girls. “Do you mind watching Harmonia while I attend to some business?” Twilight asks.

“You know we don't mind one bit Twilight.” Beams Applejack.

Twilight breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you!” She looks down at Harmonia. “You mind your aunt's and be good. Okay?” Twilight said.

“I pinkie promise, mommy!” Harmonia said.

Twilight kisses the top of her daughter's head. “I love you.” She said.

“I love you too, Mommy.” Harmonia rubs against Twilight fur.

“Come on, Harmonia. We better go before Confetti eats all of our slices of cake.” Honey Crisp said, tugging at Harmonia's paw.

Harmonia giggles. “Okay I'm coming!”

***

Harmonia plays with the twins and her new friends at Sugar Cube Corner. “This cake is so good! Aunt Pinkie Pie.” Harmonia said, scarfing down the last bit of her slice.

“Well thank you, Harmonia. The twins helped me make it!” Beams Pinkie Pie.

“If you guys need me, I'll just be in the back room!” She said before turning to leave.

“Okay Mom!” Said Cotton Berry.

“I hope mommy can transfer me her school! I mean I've made so many new friends here. I don't want to leave it!” Harmonia said.

“Well I'm sure the Princess wouldn't mind. I mean maybe all of us could go there!” Honey Crisp suggests.

“Well if Plan A doesn't work she always has Plan B through Z for backup. You know how prepared my mom is.” Harmonia said smiling.

Author's Note

It took 19 chapters, but they finally meet even if it required being locked in a detention room :facehoof: :twilightsheepish:

Chapter 20

Chapter 20

“Discord! Discord? Are you here?” Twilight calls out.

No answer.

“Maybe he went to go pick up Harmony from Pinkie’s house.” Twilight thought to herself.

Twilight begins to fill out paperwork that she has been meaning to fill out for the past few days now. She had the castle to herself for today as Harmonia was hanging with her friends at Sugar Cube Corner, Tempest was at the Crystal Empire training the new guards, Starlight was visiting Sunburst for the evening, as for Discord, he was nowhere in the house.

She hums to herself as she is filling out paperwork. The alicorn comes across a letter from Harmonia’s school. Twilight picks the letter up in her aura. She sighs out loud. “Please tell me Harmonia isn’t in trouble again.” She said aloud to nopony in particular.

She tears open the letter and scans it. Until she comes across the familiar beautiful and proper signature: Princess Celestia.

“I forgot I had to talk to Princess Celestia today about Harmony!” She exclaims.
She looks at her clock, it read 12:53 p.m. “Maybe I can catch her in time. Hopefully she isn’t too busy.” Twilight mutters to herself.

***

Twilight walks along the path of Ponyville, enjoying the semi-cloudy day that the weather pegasus ponies brought in today. As she walks along the path, she ignores the ponies who point and stare at her as she passes by.

Twilight slows her pace a tad. A random citizen walks up to her. as he puts a sympathetic hoof on the Princess’s chest.

“I am so sorry about you and your daughters loss.” The stallion said, his voice full of sympathy and sorrow.

“Loss? But nopony in my family passed. As far as I know of.” Twilight said, her tone confused.

The mare just gave her a sympathetic look, but they quickly leaves. Twilight had her eyebrows knitted in confusion, but she decided to continue on with her task.

“You know what… maybe it’s better if I fly to go and met with Celestia.” Twilight silently mutters to herself.

***

Celestia sits in her throne room filling out the paperwork that she has been meaning to fill out for about three weeks now.

“Gosh Luna! I didn't realize how behind we are on paperwork for this month.” Celestia said, in her golden aura she held eighteen to twenty pages of unsigned laws that needed to have their signature.

“Indeed! But you do realize that I have already filled out my portion, correct?” Luna asks, raising an eyebrow at her.

“Oh no! I know that look! I'm not about to forge your signature on the documents.” Luna said.

“Come on, please….” Celestia pleads.

“No.” Luna said her voice firm.

“We can split the documents. 50/50.” Celestia briefs.

“Sister, I'm still not doing it.” Luna said.

“Do you need some assistance?” Said a familiar voice.

“Actually yes, Luna that would be lovely right about now.” Celestia said, looking at her documents.

“Sister, I didn't say anything.” Mutters Luna.

Celestia lows her papers. “Oh! Hello Twilight. How may I help you?” Celestia beams gives her a small smile.

Twilight enters the castle of Canterlot excited to tell Celestia the good news.

“Hello, Princess. I have actually came with some great news about Harmonia today, something that I think will even surprise you!” Twilight smiles.

“Harmonia has finally learned something that nopony thought she was even capable of trying to understand. She-” Twilight said, but was disruptively cut off by a flash of bright light.

“What the- Discord!” Twilight scolds. “Wait…. What are you even doing here?” Twilight asks, confused.

Discord looks back at Twilight a cocky, but sly expression played onto his lips. “Oh goody, you’re here. I thought I’d have to teleport you here myself.” He said, his tone remained casual.

Luna's eyes widen at the sight before her. “Twilight, I think it's time for you to go.” Luna said, her tone shifts from calm to slightly worried.

“I'm fine Princess. I'm not going anywhere. I want an explanation Discord and I want it now.” Twilight's voice was stern.

“Fine, you want an explanation I'll give you one. Let's just say your title as The Princess of Friendship, doesn't suit you all to well.” Said Discord, his tone nonchalant.

"Excuse me?" Twilight asks, her eyes narrowed.

Discord ignores Twilight and turns to Celestia, as he poofs a ring into existence.

Twilight's heart sunk at the sight she was seeing. Clearly, incapable of speaking. She watches as Discord places the ring on Celestia's wing. “Will you marry me?” He asks.

“Wh-what how could you?” Twilight asks, tears form at the corners of her eyes.

“Let’s just say I needed a mare of higher status.” He smirks.

“What will Harmonia think? You know she looks up to you!” Twilight said. The young alicorn was heartbroken. She didn’t fully understand why would Discord do something like this in the first place.

What did she even do to deserve this?

“I’m sure you can handle her on your own.” His tone was nonchalant as if he didn’t have a care in Equestria.

“Okay, who are you and what have you down with my husband?” Twilight asks, tears of hurt and frustration. Her heart felt like it was glass, so fragile and once it was dropped there was no need to put it back together.

Discord looks at her for a bit, a sly look on his face. Luna lays a comforting wing over Twilight’s back. “This is low! Even for you, Celestia!” Luna said, her voice stern.

Celestia flinches at her sister’s words. “Luna I-” she was speechless. She didn’t know what to say. She knew that she had feelings for Discord, but she didn’t want it to go this far.

Celestia looks to Twilight, a look of hurt and regret was displayed on her face. “Twilight! I am so sorry, but I hope we can be friends still.” She states, but Twilight cuts her off.

Twilight’s looks at Celestia, a furious look was displayed on her face. A look of hurt, heartbreak and frustration wrapped up into one facial expression. “Forgive!? How can I call somepony a friend and forgives somepony, who stole my husband!” She spats.

The two alicorns didn’t even give Celestia a chance to speak. “I hope your happy Celestia.” Luna said, still having her wing wrapped around Twilight.

Twilight cries softly into Luna’s fur.

“I was really going to consider it and ask for your permission about letting Harmonia enroll at my school, but now after seeing this.” Twilight looks at the two in disgust.

She laughs. Her laugh was full of sarcasm and hurt. “I think I’ll take matters into my own hooves. I don’t need your permission.” she said, her eyes narrowed.

She looks at Luna, her tone softens. “Thank you for the comfort, Luna but I think I’ll be okay.” She said.

Luna sensed so much hurt in the young alicorn. “Are you sure Twilight?” She asks.

She turns to leave, but stops. She tries to lighten her mood, but her tears were still hot and burning. “I’m sure Luna.” She mumbles.

Tears ran down Twilight’s face, her body stiffens as she narrows her eyes at the two. “You know I hope you two are very happy!” She shouts at them. “And don’t expect me to come to your wedding.” She spats.

Discord smirks, as Luna gives him and Celestia a dark glare. “I don’t understand! Why would you do such a thing? Discord, this is outrageous! What has gotten into you?!”

She turns to Celestia. “Celestia, Twilight and Discord are married and they have a daughter! Why would you break their bond?! This is not how relationships work! You and Discord can’t do this! This is not right! ” Luna yelled, her tone rather angry.

“It’s fine Luna.” Twilight said, her voice slightly ragged.

She turns to look at Celestia, hatred filled her entire existence toward her now. “You know what Celestia? It won’t be too long before he does the same thing to you like he is doing to me! He might even go after your sister once he gets bored of you. ” She snears.

Tears still streaks down her face as she flew out of the throne room.

***

Harmonia rolled the dice on a colorful board, as she moved a tiny plastic pony figure across the board and knocked over another plastic figure. Tempest groaned as Harmonia gave a loud cheer.

“Congratulations Harmonia, you won again…….for the seventh time in a row” Tempest said, rolling her eyes playfully. Harmonia giggled and folded her lion paw and eagle claw together. “Meh, I am a natural at this!” she said, grinning at her seventh winning.

“Ha! Natural my flank! I was a champion at this game when I was your age!” Starlight said, smirking as she read through the instructions book of the board game they were playing.

“Aunt Starlight, are you sure you want to do this?” Harmonia asked daringly. Starlight smirked and boops Harmonia’s muzzle.

“Bring. It. On.” Starlight said. Tempest sighed as she put her hoof to her head. The throne room door of Twilight’s castle opened to reveal Twilight, her mane was messy, tear stains were on her face, her eyes bloodshot. Starlight, Tempest and Harmonia looked at Twilight, confused at her state of appearance. Tempest stood up and walked over to Twilight and bowed.

“Your highness. Is everything alright?” She asks slightly worried.

Twilight didn’t say anything, she looked away from her friend, guard and daughter, remaining silent. Starlight walked over to her and placed a hoof on her shoulder.

“Twi, are you okay? You don’t look so good. Do you need a rest?” Starlight asked.

“I’m fine, Starlight… really.” Twilight said, giving her a fake smile.

Starlight looks at her a sincere expression on her face. “Twilight I know you and from the look on your face, that shows me that you are clearly not fine.” She said, her expression slightly stern.

Twilight looked away once again, not wanting to tell them what just happened. She knows that they will be completely flabbergasted, especially Harmonia.

Harmonia looks at her mother, slightly confused as to why she was upset. “Mommy? Where’s daddy?” She asks.

Twilight cringed at the sound of the word. She didn’t want to tell her the truth. She didn’t want her daughter to see her as a bad mother figure or grow up to feel like this was her own fault for his leaving.

Twilight didn’t want to lie to her own daughter, but she also didn’t want to tell her the truth, she was practically torn at this question. Her body went tense. She looks at the crystal floor of her castle, thinking to herself. “.... daddy won’t be back for a while.” Twilight mumbles.

Harmonia looks at her mother in confusion. “What?” She questions. Twilight said nothing more and left the throne room.

There was a sudden knock on the door. Starlight and Tempest both looked at each other in confusion.

“Stay right here, sweetie.” Starlight instructed her niece.

Starlight and Tempest both make their way to the door and opened it. A flash of photographer and newsponies stand outside of Twilight’s castle.

“How may I- whoa!” Starlight said, her eyes scanned the group of ponies all from the Ponyville and Canterlot News Reporters and Press.

“What is going on Star- whoa! Where did all of these reporters come from?” Tempest asks.

“Your guess is as good as mine.” Said Starlight.

“Starlight! May we get your input on the latest scandal that has happened in Canterlot?” Shouts a female newspony. She shoves a microphone in Starlight’s face.

“Scandal?” Starlight questions.

“How does the Princess feel about Princess Celestia and Discord getting married?” Asks a male newspony

“WHAT?!” Tempest and Starlight both said in unison.

The newsponies began to swarm the two. Starlight and Tempest both look at them, clearly this was just some silly rumor and gossip, right? It couldn’t be real, right?

Tempest eyebrows furrow. “Okay, that’s enough questions for the day. Now please get the buck off the Princess's property, before I make you leave.” she snaps, she then slams the door in the reporters faces.

Starlight looks at her. “Well way to be subtle about it.” Starlight mutters.

“Eh.” Tempest said.

They both walk back down the hallway, both speaking in a low tone not wanting Harmonia to overhear them. “Scandal?” Tempest questions.

“Celestia and Discord?!” Starlight said, both equally confused.

“Whatever the reason is, we can not let Harmonia know.” whispers Tempest.

Harmonia meets Tempest and Starlight halfway down the hallway. “Who was at the door?” she questions the two mares.

“Oh, just some pesky ponies they apparently had the wrong address.” Starlight fibs.

“I’m going to go check on Twilight, you stay with Harmonia.” Whispers Tempest in Starlight’s ear.

Starlight nods.

Tempest gallops down the hallway looking for Twilight.

***

“..... After all these years, nine years in fact! …. maybe I just wasn’t enough for him…” Twilight thought as she sits quietly in the library, tears streaming down her face as she watched the fireplaces as the flames flicker and dance before her in perfect harmony.

Tempest could hear crying coming from the library. She opens the door to reveal a very dimly lit library, the only source of light was the fireplace being caressed in yellow, amber, and crimson flames.

“..... your highness?” Tempest asked, approaching the mare with caution.

“Twi? We know what happened. Why didn’t you tell us?” Starlight asked.

Twilight was a mess her mane was frazzled and her eyes remained bloodshot red from all the crying. She didn’t say a word, she just remains curl up in the fetal position.

“Uh… Where’s Harmonia?” Questions Tempest.

“I laid her down for a nap.” Said Starlight. She then looks at Twilight, a sad expression mounted on her face.

Twilight softly sighs, but Starlight could tell it was a sighing sound out of heartbreak mixed with pain.

“Maybe it is because I didn’t want my daughter to know. Maybe it could also be the fact that I didn’t want her to see me as a bad mother or maybe make her feel like it’s her fault because he left us. To feel like a complete and utter failure at being a mother. How did you two find out?” Twilight said, her tone sounding hurt and bitter.

“Newsponies told us, Twilight. If Harmonia goes out later today or even anytime tomorrow then she will bound to know.” Tempest explains.

“She’s right.” Twilight thought.

There was poof within the castle. Discord, looks around wanting to explain to Twilight.

“Twilight?” He calls out, but to no avail she didn’t answer.

He poofs into her favorite spot of the castle.

The library.

“Well, speak of the devil and he shall appear.” Sneers Tempest.

“Twilight please let me explain.” Discord begs.

“I have nothing to say to you.” Twilight said, her voice full of bitter and hate towards him.

Discord looked down slightly hurt by her sudden shift in tone.

Author's Note

Edited/Rewritten: November 7, 2019

Cue the music First Burn from Hamilton

Chapter 21

Chapter 21

“What do you want, Discord?” Twilight’s tone was bitter, as her back was against him.

Twilight looks at her ex-husband with a disapproving look on her face. Tempest and Starlight look between The Princess of Friendship and The Lord of Chaos, slightly on edge.

Tempest begins to hold her ground with caution, sneering at the draconequus. A low growl escapes her throat, Discord looks away from Tempest quickly and turned his attention back to Twilight.

“I just want to talk to you dear…” Discord tone was cautious. He tried to get closer to Twilight a little, but he was anxious and even nervous to get anywhere near her.

He sighs. “Listen… about earlier… it was-” He tries to explain.

Twilight put a hoof to his mouth. As if to say shut the hell up and let me do the speaking. “I do not wish to hear what you have to say, Discord. Just a few days you cared so much about Harmonia and I. As if we’re your most valuable and prized possessions. And now all of a sudden you throw us away like trash!” Twilight’s voice hardened a bit, as tears aligned her eyes.

“What happened to the draconequus I married nine years ago? What happened to the draconequus I fell in love with?” Twilight questions, her tone still remained hard.

Discord remained silent as he listened to what Twilight had to say.

“We made vows Discord! You and me for better or for worse! Not me you, and Celestia! Did those vows mean anything to you?!” Twilight questions.

Twilight looks at Discord before scoffing. “After nine years I can’t believe you let me down. I’ll admit I’ve had my doubts from you for many years, denying everything that anypony would bring bad about you! I’ve wiped my own tears hearing the god awful things that they have said about you because I knew in my heart that it wasn’t true. Guess I was wrong.” Twilight said, her ears down folded.

“Twilight do you need us to-?” Starlight begins, but Twilight cuts her off.

“As much as would I appreciate it. Harmonia still needs him here.” Twilight said, before turning her attention back quickly to her ex husband.

“Did Celestia use some dark magic on you to brainwash you to like- well correction even be in love with her?” Twilight asks, coming to the realization that could be the only be the most possible explanation as to what was going on right now.

“No, she did not brainwash me, Twilight.” Discord explains.

“Then what could it be?” Twilight asks, her tone becoming rather agitated.

Discord sighs. “You know that I love both you and Harmonia, right?” He asks, awaiting Twilight’s response.

“Love?! If you love us, you wouldn’t go off and marry somepony else Discord!” shouts Twilight, her tone stearn, angry and full of hurt.

Twilight then paused. “..... That explains why you’ve been so distant, isn’t it? And why your heart has been unobtainable. Sad to know this is the reason why. You’re having an affair....” her eyes going wide, but a fire was burning in her purple eyes.

Discord said nothing.

“How stupid and foolish could I have been to deny any rumors about you? Apparently a lot. However you think I’m insane for reacting like this? Thinking that I wouldn’t find out what you’ve done?! Well let me tell you something Discord ponies talk.” Twilight said, her tone cold.

“Now it makes sense why you said you needed a mare of higher status. What? Do I not fit that status anymore?” Twilight snarked.

Twilight’s features became darkened a bit. “You got five minutes to start talking and start talking now.”

“Just let me explain…” Discord stated.

“Oh this shall be good.” Mutters Twilight.

Discord sighs. “At the Grand Galloping Gala, which was in 2015 held by Celestia. I accepted a formal invitation from her. Well it was late, but that’s besides the point. Anyways, of course I accepted and went. Upon arrival, I met you, I noticed that you were the most beautiful mare there nothing else mattered in that moment. However, when I locked eyes with Tia- - I mean Celestia- I notice that she was acting differently around me, of course I thought nothing of it. That night at the Gala she took me out on the balcony to talk.” Discord explains.

“About?” Twilight asked, pressing for answers.

“Just simple things, honestly.” Discord explains.

Twilight arched her eyebrow, as if she wasn’t buying it for one second.

“And that night that she asked me to talk to me about Harmonia’s behavior in school... It’s like her feelings had resurfaced from her past, but you have to understand, I’ve known her for a very long time! When she was a filly I was there for her and with her, we both loved each other…” He said, trying his best to reason with Twilight, but his guilt still let him down.

“So your saying that you still have feelings for her in return?” Twilight asks, her tone broken and bitter.

“Twilight, I love you more, I loved you more! I loved you more than anypony I have ever laid eyes on! I love both you and our daughter more!” He explains.

“Doesn’t seem like it….” Twilight mutters, her tone cold.

“You just used a past tense word: loved. Which means you loved us in the past, not now.” Twilight’s tone was ice cold.

“Honey...please… listen to me….” He begs. He then, moves in front of Twilight, his face full of guilt, Discord hugs Twilight tightly as if he never wanted to lose her in the first place. Twilight remained a rather cold distance toward him, bitter and silent as she contemplates her thoughts.

She looks down at the ground. He tilts Twilight face into his claw. Twilight smacks his claw away from her and pushes Discord off of her.

She looks at him, her eyes cold and unfeeling.“Back at that castle you literally propose to Celestia. Why did you do that?” Twilight snaps, her tone bitter.

“Yes, I needed a mare of higher status, but it was for a very good reason.” Discord explains.

“A very good reason? What could having an affair be a very good reason for!” Twilight asks, she was still fuming pissed over the whole situation.

Discord was filled with frustration. “It was an act of royal Sacrifice!” He snaps.

“Royal… Sacrifice?” Twilight mutters to herself.

“Royal Sacrifice!” Twilight yells.

“You went behind my back and had an affair with Celestia of all ponies, and you think that I won’t find out! Ponies talk Discord.” Twilight said her tone bitterly amused at this.

She gave a sarcastic laughter, which set Starlight and Tempest unease. “How can I forgive the love of my life who is planning on marrying somepony who I personally know and to go as far as to have an affair with them? That’s just sick!” Twilight’s tone was bitter.

Discord was speechless. He then slightly regret his decision about proposing to Celestia, he starts to sob a little in front of Twilight, asking for forgiveness, he knew it wasn’t possible to gain back any form of trust or forgiveness from Twilight this time.

“I… didn’t know…. How could I hurt the love of my life…?” He softly mutters to her.

“Well you did! Don’t even try to take Harmonia from me because it would be a cold day in Tartarus before I ever let that happen.” Twilight seethed.

“Besides as you said before: “I’m pretty sure you can handle her on your own.” Doesn’t that sentence ring a bell?” Twilight’s eyes narrowed at the draconequus.

Discord remained silent.

There was a small creek in the door to reveal Harmonia, who was rubbing her eyes from her nap. “Mommy… daddy… what’s going on?” She questions.

Twilight and Discord stops their bickering for a moment and looks at their daughter. “...Sweetie go to your room.” Twilight said, her tone slightly stern.

“But…” Harmonia squeaks, her voice sounded small and fragile.

Discord sighs. “Listen to your mother sweetheart.” He said.

Harmonia nods and leaves the room.

“I have nothing to say to you!” Twilight hisses her tone was venomous toward Discord.

Discord sighs. “I understand if you want me gone Twilight… just say the word….”

Twilight bit her bottom lip. Discord remains talking. “Banish me... exile me…. I’d do it for you either way…” He explains, giving Twilight so many different options.

Outside the hallway, Harmonia remains there, quite as she peeps through the crack of her mother’s throne room. Tears silently stream down her face as she thinks to herself: “You mean Daddy is leaving?”

Twilight takes a deep breath. Her voice was monotones. “Honestly Discord, I don’t care where you go. Maybe if you didn’t do what you did. You would still have a place here. But..”

Twilight pauses as she gives a sarcastic laugh to her ex-husband. “You screwed that up! What? Am I not somepony of higher status than her? Not good enough for you? That’s exactly what you said back in Canterlot!” Twilight’s tone was venomous.

Discord was hurt by the words that came out of Twilight’s mouth.

Discord’s eyebrows furrow, clearly he was angry at the choice of words she was using. “You know it isn’t like that Twilight!” He snaps.

“That’s always the card everypony pulls isn’t it?! “it isn’t like that” my flank! When clearly you can’t come up with a grand enough excuse.” She snaps back.

Twilight thought for a moment. “How long has this been going on?” She asked.

Discord didn’t answer at first.

“Discord, How long has this been going on?” Twilight repeats again, this time her teeth bared, her tone hardened.

“Four months…” he mutters.

Twilight then picks up a crystal vase, without warning and throws it at Discord, however Discord avoids it.

“Get out.” She mutters, her tone dark.

“Just get out!” She screams, tears aligned her eyes.

Discord was in so much pain, his gaze from Twilight now ended. Pain of regret filled his chaotic mind. He paused thinking should he turn back or just walk out once and for all.

Twilight then processed to collapse onto the floor in a mess of sobs.

Discord flinches at Twilight’s words. Pain of regret filled his chaotic mind. He paused thinking should he turn back or just walk out once and for all.

He had his claw on the door. “I’m sorry my dear…” He mutters. Discord opens the door, and reveals Shining Armor, who was about to open the door himself, but instead was met by Discord. Shining lets out an angry expression toward Discord. “Get out of my way!” He grunts, his voice full of distaste and spitefulness toward the creature.

Cadence follows alongside Shining and Flurry. “You should be..” Cadence mutters, her voice was bitter.

“Ashamed of myself? Already doing that Princess of Love… it’s repulsive really....” He mutters, ashamed of his actions. Twilight’s friends where the next ponies to enter the castle. Each of the Mane 6 members give Discord a look of disgust and annoyance, even Fluttershy.

Discord knew that his presents was not needed here any longer than it needed to be, he got the gist that it was time to leave. He snaps his fingers and teleports out of the castle.

Rarity gives her a hug of sympathy. “Twilight… are you okay, darling?” She asks, giving Twilight a hug. “I’m fine Rarity, it’s just.. How am I going to tell Harmonia about this…” Twilight said, looking upstairs.

Shining and Cadence approach Twilight, Cadence wraps a comforting wing around Twilight giving her a warm hug. Twilight cries softly into her sister-in-law’s fur, her brother watched with concern for his sister. Flurry joins in, hugging her aunt tightly.

“Whatever he did to you...I’m not letting it slip by, I knew Discord was bad news from the start.” Shining said, his tone stern.

Cadence thought for a moment. “.....just be gentle with the news. She may be upset at first, but she will eventually comes to terms with it after a while. Yes, she will hurt, like you are right now, but she will eventually come to an understanding.

Starlight agrees with the Princess’s statement.

Flurry carefully looks at her aunt. “Aunt Twilight? Where is Harmonia?” She asks.

Twilight looks at her niece, tears still coming. She sniffs. “She is in her room, sweetheart. You can go see her if you want to.” Twilight offers, her tone sounded scratchy and raspy from all the crying she has been doing.

“Alright.” Flurry Heart leaves the room, going to find her cousin in the huge castle.

The others turn their attention back to Twilight and Shining. “Do you want me to send the royal guards after Discord?” He whispers to Cadence, not wanting to trigger Twilight.

Cadence looks at Twilight then looks back at her husband. Her expression softened, mixed with worry and sorrow for her sister in law. “I don’t think that would be necessary, dear. Besides who knows where Discord went to.” She softly whispers to her husband.

***

Flurry could hear crying coming from inside of Harmonia’s room. Flurry knocks on Harmonia’s door. “Harmonia, it’s me Flurry Heart, may I come in?” She asks.

The young alicorn carefully opens the door. She looks at her cousin, a pitiful look displays on Flurry's face for her cousin. Harmonia remains curled up in her ball. “..... it’s my fault Daddy left…..” Harmonia mutters to herself, as she softly cries into her fur.

Flurry looked at her cousin in confusion. “What do you mean Harmony?” she asks. Flurry makes her way over to her cousin, making herself comfortable beside her. She lifts Harmonia’s chin gently with her hoof. Harmonia looks at her cousin, hugging her ever so tightly, guilt running through her tiny chaotic mind. Flurry hugs back, her wings wrapped around her.

“I overheard mommy and daddy fighting.” She mutters softly.

“About what Harmony?” Flurry Heart asks with concern. Flurry wipes Harmonia’s tears gently with her hoof, she rubs Harmonia’s back and mane, calming her down little by little.

She looks at Flurry a sad expression remains on her face. “I’m not fully sure what the fight was fully about, but I know whatever the reason is… it’s my fault…” she said.

Flurry gives her cousin a soft. warm smile and a kiss on top of her cousin’s forehead. “Harmony don’t say that, it’s never your fault. You have done nothing wrong. Don’t beat yourself up just because of a little fight. Harmonia, you know better than that.” She said, looking at her cousin.

Harmonia cries softly. “But… you was not here.” she softly mutters.

“I may not have been here, but I know that it’s not your fault. All families fight, even my mom and dad fight sometime. Trust me when when I tell you this Harmony: No family is perfect.” she explains.

Harmonia looks at Flurry with tears still streaming down her cheeks. “Really…?” She asks.

“Mhm.” Said Flurry, giving her a soft smile. Harmonia took her cousin’s words into account. She then lunges at Flurry wrapping her claw and paw around Flurry’s neck as she cried softly into her cousin’s mane, but Flurry didn’t care as she rubs Harmonia’s back, muttering “shhh…” into her ear, trying to comfort her the best she knew how.

***

“Are you sure you are okay Twilight?” Shining asks, careful not to trigger his sister. He sits down quietly, as Twilight’s friends carefully watch them.

Twilight averted her eyes from the door that Discord left out of hours ago, her ears slightly flatten. “I’m fine, Shining.” She said.

Noticing her expression, his eyes narrowed slightly at his sister, as if he knew that something else was bothering her, but decided against it. “Alright...if you need me I’ll be up stairs with the kids.” He said, he leaves going to check on Harmonia and Flurry.

“Darling, I’m so sorry this had to happen to you… we are really sorry.” Said Rarity, her expression looked hurt and filled with sorrow for her best friend.

“We just heard the news and…. I can’t believe he did this to you….” Rainbow Dash was speechless at the news.

“I knew I couldn’t trust that thiefin varmint.” Mutters Applejack.

Cadence unwraps her wing, and she brings a hoof to Twilight’s chin, lifting it up slowly. “Give it some time Twilight, love is like a box of chocolates, we never know what’s “inside.” She then gives Twilight a warm smile. “All you need to do is give it time.” she repeats, her tone softens.

“Thank you for the comfort… all of you, but I don’t think just mere words for thought are going to fix any of this. I just need some time alone to think.” Twilight moves away from Cadence.

“Alright Twilight.” Cadence mutters, she then releases a sigh of disappointment from Discord’s actions. Cadence then calls for Flurry and Shining to come downstairs. “Honey, sweetheart! It’s time for us to go! Come say goodbye to Aunt Twilight, Flurry.” Cadence calls out.

Flurry and Shining make their way down stairs together. Flurry looks at her aunt with a wave of sadness washes over her. She can’t stand to see her aunt like this, she looked so vulnerable. “....Bye Aunt Twilight.” Flurry says, her tone soft.

Twilight gives her a soft smile. “Bye sweetheart. Here let me walk you guys out.” Said Twilight, she makes her way to the door leading the family of three out. Cadence looks at Twilight, her expression still symphonic toward her aunt.

“Twilight…. If you ever need us, any of us. You know where to reach us.” Cadence said, her tone full of sorrow for her sister in law.

Twilight nods and watches for a moment, she then shuts the door behind her. Turning her attention to her friends, her friends where worried for her, they all gave her a look of remorse as she passed by making her way to Harmonia’s room.

***

Twilight leans into the door frame of her daughter’s room, her ears flatten at the sounds of her daughter’s crying. She lightly knocks on the door. “Sweetie? Can we talk?” She softly asks.

Harmonia looks at her mother a sad expression still etched onto her face. “Okay mommy….” she softly squeaks. She was still curled up in her ball like she has been for the past four hours ago.

Twilight makes her way over to Harmonia’s bed, sitting on it. Harmonia scoots closer to her mother, hugging her. “You know that your Daddy and I love you very much, right?” Twilight asks.

Harmonia silently nods her head. “Then why did Daddy leave….” She asks, her tone sounded broken, as if her whole world has came crashing down. Harmonia begins to cry uncontrollably her tiny body still shaking and her breathing became raggedy. As she so desperately wish her father would come back.

Twilight’s eyes started to tear back up. “I’m taking it that you overheard?” She asks, her tone full of guilt. The tears in Harmonia eyes gave away the answer that she indeed overheard them. Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, to be honest I really don’t know…” Twilight mutters.

Harmonia screams while crying, as she hugged her mother tightly as she sobbed harder. Her eyes were bloodshot. “Don’t leave me mommy…… d-don’t….l-leave me!” She wails, trying her best to speak.

Twilight’s eyes widened at Harmonia’s sudden outburst. She hugs her daughter tightly, as she raked her hoof through her daughter’s mane. “That will never happen, sweetheart!” She said.

Twilight’s ears suddenly went flat, as an idea came to mind.

Harmonia buries her face into her mother’s fur sobbing harder. “I-Is i-it my-my fault d-daddy left?” Harmonia cries out, blaming herself.

Twilight looked at her daughter, agasphed that she would even think this. “No! Look at me and listen.” Twilight commands.

Harmonia looks at Twilight with remorse in her eyes. “What happened today was and never will be your fault.. Do you understand?” Twilight’s tone went from stern to soft.

Harmonia nods her head.

“Besides your daddy and I are just taking a very long break from each other.” Twilight explains.

“Why...?” Harmonia asks, tears still streaming down towards her cheeks, warm salty tears dripping off her cheeks and onto her bed sheets and pillow.

Twilight cringes not wanting to tell her daughter the real reason why. She thought to herself as she looks at her daughter with pain in her eyes. “Because, I caught daddy in a scandalous affair with your teacher- or ex-teacher I should say.” She secretly thought to herself.

“Mommy…?” Harmonia asks her tone softened, as she snaps her mother out of her thoughts. She looks at her mother, with tears streaming down her face.

Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, it’s something you wouldn’t understand until you are older.” She explains.

Harmonia laid her head on her mother’s chest, she started to calm down a little, wrapping her tiny paw and claw around Twilight tightly. They stay like that for a moment or so, before Twilight gets up from Harmonia’s bed.

Harmonia looks at her mother slightly scared and confused. “Mommy…..?” she cautiously asks, her tone sounded worried for her mother.

Twilight looks at her daughter, her expression softened. “Mommy just needs to go and do some thinking, don’t worry I will still be in the castle, however.” Twilight explains.

Harmonia wipes away her tears, she gave a small soft smile to her mother. “Ok..” She said, softly.

Twilight makes her way to her throne room. She opens the doors to reveal a dimly lit room, the only thing glowing was The Friendship Map. She sighs in deep thought, her friends silently watch from the door frame, before slowly entering.

The mare's tears, softly streaming down her face. "Twilight, darling are you okay?" Rarity asks.

"Does she honestly look okay Rarity?" Applejack asks.

Starlight was the next pony to speak up. "Twilight just know that you are never alone and that one day you will be found." Starlight said, her voice softens at the young alicorn. Twilight's friends gather around her as she cries softly into their fur. Hugging them as tightly as ever. Without notice, Twilight's cutie mark begins to glow, signaling that somepony needed her help.

But who?

Author's Note

Edited/Rewritten: November 7, 2019

Chapter 22

Chapter 22

Harmonia walked along the small path of Ponyville on her way home. It’s been awhile since she has tried to speak to her mother, yet her mother reminded distant to her, Starlight, Tempest, Miss. Trixie and her own friends.

She remained too scared to return home, in fear of getting yelled at by her mother.

“Harmonia Sparkle? What are you doing out here? It’s late. Shouldn’t you be home?” Calls out a familiar voice.

Harmonia looks up from kicking a stray pebble on the pathway to notice that the voice belonged to Jewel Bliss.

“Jewel? W-what are you doing here? And wait… why are you making conversation with me? We hardly talked at Celestia’s school. So why are you trying to talk to me now?” Harmonia asked.

“Yeah… I want to apologize for that. I didn’t mean to do that to you. I really did want to be your friend… I guess Crystal and the need to be in the it crowd got to me. I’m sorry.” Jewel mutters.

Harmonia noticed that the unicorn looked truly apologetic for her past actions, however something felt off.

“Look I’ll accept your apology if you can help me with something.” Harmonia said.

“What’s that?” Jewel asked.

“D-do you think I could come and have a sleepover at your house? Just this once.” Harmonia asked.

Jewel looks at Harmonia, her eyebrows knitted in confusion. “What? Wait… why? Won’t your mother be worried about you?” Jewel asked.

Harmonia bit her lip, unsure if Jewel has heard the news about why her parents split or not. “.... it’s complicated.” She muttered her ears down folded.

“Oh….” Jewel mutters.

“Besides I just can’t go home right now…” she said her tone quite.

Jewel thought for a moment. “.... well I’m sure my mother and father wouldn’t mind. I’m sure they’d be thrilled to meet the Princess of Friendship’s daughter.”

Harmonia saddened expression tugs into a soft smile. “Okay let me just send a note to my mom and then we can go.” She explains.

Harmonia snaps a quill and parchment paper into existence, as she begins to scribble on the empty parchment.

Mom,

Don’t bother waiting up on me to return home tonight. I went to spend the night at Aunt Applejack’s house. I’ll see you in the morning.

Love,

Harmonia

Harmonia snaps her paw and teleported the letter to her mother.

“There! Now that that is taken care of let’s go.” Harmonia said.

***

The city of Canterlot were particularly quite around the late hours of the evening. Jewel and Harmonia made their way to the front door of Jewel’s crystal home, as Harmonia watched Celestia’s sun set over the horizon setting into dusk.

“My parents should be at home.” Jewel said.

She opened the door to reveal as spotless home and her father coming through the foyer.

“Ah! There you are my dear just in time for dinner.” Fancy Pants said, he embraced his daughter in a hug.

“Hello Jewel dear, oh who is zith?” Fleur De Lis asked, noticing that Harmonia was in the room.

“Mother, this is Harmonia Sparkle.” Jewel said, introducing the two to her new friend.

“Sparkle you say?” Fancy Pants questions his daughter.

“Mhm.” Jewel said, smiling.

Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis look at Harmonia for a second, she couldn’t tell if they were judging her or micro sizing her appearance.

Fancy Pants was the first to break the awkward silence. “.... my dear, apologize for staring but are you the daughter of Princess Twilight Sparkle?” He asked.

“Yes ma’am….. I- I mean sir.” Harmonia eyes widened and her cheeks blushed with embarrassment.

Fleur soft, light airy laughter broke the awkwardness. “... And she’s funny just like her father.” she said.

“.... yeah… hehe.” Harmonia eyes downcast to the crystal tile flooring.

“Quite dear.” Fancy Pants said.

“So Miss. Sparkle-” Fancy Pants stated, but Harmonia politely cuts him off.

“Please call me Harmonia, Mrs. Sparkle is my mother.” Harmonia explains.

Fancy Pants lightly chuckles. “Very well then dear. So Harmonia what brings you to Canterlot?” He asked.

“It’s not everyday we get visitors from Ponyville here. Especially in our very own home.” Fleur explains.

“Should I tell them the real reason why I’m here?” Harmonia wonders.

But she decided against it. “.... oh um just here for a visit.” She said, giving them a fake smile.

“... but it’s late.” Fleur said.

Harmonia begins to pull at the ends of her hair whenever she felt nervous.

“She was wondering if she could spend the night?” Jewel asked.

“Of course! But is everything alright dear you look like you’re about to pass out.” Fancy Pants asked.

“.... of- of course! Why wouldn’t it be?” Harmonia said, she didn’t realize how bad her paws where shaking.

Why was she so nervous? Like her anxiety shifted from zero to a hundred real quick.

“Here, come sit down.” Fleur instructed.

Harmonia did what she was told and sat on the soft velvet couch. This was something her mother definitely didn’t have back at the castle.

“I’ll go get you some water.” Fancy Pants said.

Harmonia nods and was left alone with Jewel and Fleur for a couple of minutes. “Maybe we should call your mother?” Fleur suggested.

“No! I… I mean no thank you. I’ll be fine.” Harmonia said.

“Are you sure you’re okay Harmonia?” Jewel asked.

“I will be, once I have some-” Harmonia said, but Fancy Pants cuts her off.

“Here you go dear.” Fancy Pants, offers her the glass of water.

Harmonia takes a few sips before sitting the cup down. “Better?” Fleur asked.

“Much.” Harmonia smiles.

“Well we were just about to eat. Care to join us?” Fancy Pants asked.

Harmonia thought for a moment before coming up with her question. “ I ... would love to.” Harmonia said.

***

Harmonia joins Jewel and her family around the dining table. She took in the sights and delightful conversation she was hearing.

It was nothing like she had back at home, normally she would just sit in her room alone and eat or sometimes sits at the dining room table until Starlight comes and joins her, which was on occasion or Tempest, which was extremely rare.

“So my little Jewel how was school today? Learn anything new?” Fleur asked.

“.... well we learned a transfiguration spell.” Jewel explains.

“So this is what having a family again feels like.” Harmonia thought to herself.

“What about you Harmonia did you learn the same spell work as Jewel did?” Fancy asked.

“Oh um I don’t exactly go there anymore. I go to my mother's school: The School of Friendship.” Harmonia explains.

“So is that why I haven’t seen you around campus? Because you transferred schools?” Jewel questioned.

“Yep.” Harmonia said, taking a bite of her food.

“That’s interesting! You know I use to go to Celestia school as well when I was around you age.” Fleur said.

“Really?” Jewel asked.

“Yes, I knew Princess Mia Mora Cadenza back that was Princess Celestia’s niece. However, she also studied under Celestia however she was already a Princess.” Fleur explains.

“.... you knew my aunt?” Harmonia asked.

“Of course, dear.” Fleur said.

“...wait so if you were friends with the Princess of The Crystal Empire then how in Equestria did you met father? No offense.” Jewel questions.

“I’ll let that offense slid, and to answer your question I was actually great friends with Shining Armor.” Fancy Pants explains.

“Shining Armor is actually the one who got your mother and I together in the first place.” Fancy said.

“But I thought Cadence was the Princess of Love?” Harmonia question.

“She is dear, but back then you’re uncle was a pretty great matchmaker himself.” Fleur said.

“Thanks to him we are now married with a beautiful daughter. And we couldn’t be happier.” Fancy Pants said, smiling at his wife and daughter.

“.... awe that’s such a sweet story.” Jewel said.

“It was a tad sappy for my taste but still sweet.” Harmonia said.

Fancy gave a slight chuckle.“You should see how your uncle was when we tried to set him up with a date with your Aunt Cadence. Now that is a fairy tale.” He says.

“But also a story for another time dear. It’s already 10:37 pm the girls should be in bed by now.” Fleur said.

“Right, well you girls head on to bed. We will finish up down here.” Fancy said.

“Goodnight!” Harmonia and Jewel both shout in unison before heading up to Jewel’s bedroom.

***

“You have a lovely room.” Harmonia said.

“Well thank you, but I bet it’s nothing compared to your room at Princess Twilight’s castle! I bet she has over a million rooms there.” Jewel said lightly giggling.

“You have no idea! This one time Aunt Starlight told me she got lost trying to look for my mom’s throne room and instead ended up in the supply room.” Harmonia giggles.

Jewel giggled as well.

“Hey Jewel? Can I ask you something?” Harmonia asked.

“Of course.” Jewel beams.

“Did you only invite me here out of self pity?” Harmonia asked.

“Self pity? Harmonia what are you talking about?” Jewel questions.

“You haven’t heard the rumors?” Harmonia questioned.

“No…. what rumors? Harmonia you’re starting to scare me? What rumors? What’s going on?” Jewel questions.

“She doesn’t know about what happened between my parents.” Harmonia thought.

“..... wait quick question when we first meet back at Celestia’s school, but you didn’t bother to show back up… where did you go? Was it because of me?” Harmonia questions.

“Not exactly, our family got offered a last minute job relocation at the time. It was in Ponyaris, Prance we stayed there for almost five years, until my parents decided to finish the jobs they had there a year earlier than originally planned. They decided to move back here because the education system was spectacular at Princess Celestia school. Sad to hear that you’re not going there anymore however.” Jewel said.

“.... yeah.” Harmonia mutters.

“Now that I explained my reason-” Jewel said.

“But what kind of jobs did your parents ha-” Harmonia asked, but Jewel cuts her off.

“No, we are not changing the subject again. Now what rumors?” Jewel asked.

“It’s nothing.” Harmonia mutters.

“Well it’s obviously something or you would not have brought it up.” Jewel said.

“Like I said it’s nothing. Let’s just forget about it.” Harmonia mutters.

“We are not going to bed until you tell me what’s going on with you. Harmonia we may not have been great friends back then, but everypony makes bad choices. However, we live, learn from them and if it’s not too late then we fix them.” Jewel said, her tone slightly hardened.

“Then I guess we will pull an all-nighter.” Harmonia said, her tone nonchalant.

“... And to be completely honest, I want to fix my friendship with you.” Jewel said, offering her hoof.

Harmonia gazes down at Jewel hoof before looking at her. “Trying to fix a long forgotten friendship after five years sounds pretty too late to fix to me. Don’t you think?” Her gazes harden slightly.

Jewel looked at her. “Fine, I’ll let it go, but just know I was trying to be your friend.” Jewel said, before turning over and going to bed.

***

Harmonia tossed and turned, she was restless and couldn’t sleep.

She looks at the clock it was 1:43 am and she just couldn’t shut her running thoughts off.

Harmonia easies off the bed, making her way over to Jewel’s draw, searching for paper, quill and a spare bottle of ink.

She found what she was looking for and sits down at the desk, writing:

“I don't want to be left behind yet being distance quickly became a friend of mine. Yet I find myself catching breath in a web of lies. Here I've spent most of my life obeying rules and playing games. And I find myself shadow boxing the other half. And I'm looking for a place yet I find myself searching for a face. Is anypony here I know. Cause nothing is going right And everything's a mess. And no pony likes to be alone. And all I remember is your back
Walking towards somepony,- who if you ask me was worth leaving me & mom all in your past. I remember begging to see you and I also begged you to want me, but you didn't want to. And all of your promises fall flat. And I plan on making something of myself and I can see you wanting to come back in my life. However, your love, it isn't free, it has to be earned. When I was little we both knew I didn't have anything you needed so I was worthless. Sad to say I’m glad to hear that you moved on and it clearly shows how much you cared for us, shows how much you needed us. Which seems to be not at all so good for you! I hope your happy…”

Harmonia pauses for a moment looking at the clock it was already 3:16 am. She was hoping writing would take everything off her mind, yet she still felt something gnawing at the back of her mind. She didn’t realize she already used 3 sheets of paper and that she was now pulling out her fifth sheet from the drawer. She dips her quill back into the pot before pulling it back out.

She bares back down on the parchment.

“You know? It sucks I wish I could figure out who you left us for. It’s funny however, a mare looks up to her father? So you’re saying that it’s okay to use ponies for their own selflessness? I mean I know I’m you made over but come on I don’t think I could use a pony out of selfishness. Now unless I have a very good reason to and in this situation I am in right now, I do.”

“As you can see I don’t have a family anymore, it’s broken I’ve tried to rebuild it with the ponies I still have left in my life, but we became so distant ... whom else was I supposed to turn too? My friends all have their personal lives with their families, besides they already know of the situation. So I had to go to the pony I least expected to know.”

“Thankfully she hasn’t questioned it, but I’m starting to feel like she is becoming slightly suspicious of it. Is it wrong of me to use somepony else as my family? Because right now mine is so lost in the dark they can’t seem to find the light no matter how hard you try! So can you blame me universe for trying to be happy for once?!”

Harmonia yawns, as she looks at the clock one last time-5:15 am. It was still dark outside, as she puts the quill back in its holder. She yawned as her eyes grew heavy and before she knew it she was out like a light on at Jewel’s desk.

Sleeping away, without noticing the letter she wrote to herself all five pages gently falling to the floor.

***

“Harmonia. Harmonia! Wake up!” Jewel said, gently shaking her friend awake.

“Huh?” Harmonia asked, her voice slightly groggy from sleep.

“W-what time is it?” Harmonia looks out the window of Jewel’s house. She could hear the birds chirping and Celestia’s sun streamed through the window and curtains.

“It’s 6:38 am why?” Jewel asked.

“I’ve got to get home!” Harmonia said.

“... but what about breakfast?” Jewel asked.

“I can easily poof me a muffin or even some milk. See?” Harmonia poofs in the two existing items‍.

“And what about the rumors?” Jewel questions again.

“...Sorry to leave so suddenly, but I really should be getting home.” Harmonia said, looking at Jewel in an apologetic way.

“It’s fine. Go on ahead, I’ll tell mother and father you just went home early.” Jewel explains.

“Thank you! And you know for once in my life I actually had fun. I really enjoyed myself. Hope we can do this again soon!” Harmonia said.

Jewel looks at the grounding noticing that Harmonia must have dropped something. “Harmonia! Wait I think you-” Jewel shouts but before she could finish she was already gone.

“.... dropped something.” Jewel mutters this last bit to herself.

Jewel picks up the five page parchment which was scattered about. She was unsure of which order they went in for she just gathered them randomly.

She happened to catch sight of a few words or sentences that either made her question her friend or made her finally understand why she did not wish to tell her.

A faint voice called from downstairs. “Harmonia, Jewel! Breakfast!” Called her mother.

“Be down in a minute mother.” Jewel calls back. She decided to organize the papers in the order Harmonia thinks she would have had them and began to scan the papers. “..... So Harmonia father left Princess Twilight for who?! But why? Whoever it was…. this sounds messed up on so many levels.” Jewel mutters to herself.

Jewel continues to read, getting so immersed and lost in the letter, she forgot her mother called their name a second time.

“Jewel Bliss! Harmonia Spark- where’s Harmonia?” Fancy Pants asked.

“She had to go home.” Jewel mutters absentmindedly still staring at the letter.

“.... what do you have there.” Fancy Pants asked.

“.... A letter.” She said, still reading it.

“Alright! Well once you finish please come down stairs so you can eat your breakfast before it gets cold. I’ll tell your mother that Harmonia went home.” Fancy explains.

Fancy Pants left the room, leaving the door shut behind him.

As Jewel got to the last page, she slowed down reading it, taking and processing the upsetting, but shocking information. “..... wait so Harmonia was using me?!” Jewel screeched.

***

Luna paced up and down the hallway, waiting for her sister to step out. Luna’s galaxy dress swirled as she turned in frustration. Luna still couldn’t believe that her sister and Discord were getting married. She wanted to tell her sister this but she also wanted to support her sister so Luna was torn. Luna growled as she knocked on the door.

“Celestia! Would you hurry up?! You have been in that room for 20 minutes! You are going to miss your own wedding if you don’t hurry up!” Luna yelled.

Celestia looks at herself in the elongated mirror, admiring her wedding dress. “When did you become impatient?” Celestia said, she was still fawning over her dress.

“Oh I don’t know! You have been in that room for ages and nearly everypony in Equestria is waiting for you to get married! Now, would you be so kind and open the door so we can get going?” Luna said sarcastically. Celestia rolled her eyes and opened the door. Luna bursted into the room, stressed.

“Finally!! Now, get your flank out of this room right now!” Luna said, pushing her head against Celestia’s wedding dress, signaling Celestia to move. Celestia didn’t and turned her head towards Luna.

“Luna, do you think Discord and I should get married?” Luna stopped pushing Celestia’s dress. She turned around, her head looking down.

“Let’s see…. You already accepted the ring and you broke Twilight’s heart. What else do you want?” Luna asks, her tone slightly bitter. Celestia’s eyes widen. She knew what she had done but she did want to be with Discord. Celestia sighed.

“Look Luna. I know what you are saying. I know what I did was terrible but….this could be my chance to be with him. You know that I liked Discord.”

“But I didn’t expect you two to do this!” Luna snaps. Celestia gasped and took a step back. Celestia didn’t understand why Luna wouldn’t support her. Celestia’s eyes narrowed.

“This was mine and Discord’s choice. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t support me in one of the biggest moments of my life! Discord loves me and I love him! If he loved me so much, then why did he choose me instead of Twilight?!” Celestia asks, her voice getting an octave higher than normal.

“He did choose her for five years! But you just could not get over yourself- or him in this case!” She snaps.

Celestia said nothing.

“I can’t believe you.” Luna mutters, her tone remaining low and harsh. Luna brushes past Celestia, walking out the door and down the hallway. Luna’s eyes filled with tears as her hoofsteps made contact with the floor.

Luna shook her head angrily.

***

Harmonia lifts herself into the window sill of her bedroom.

For the past few weeks she has been afraid to return home, ever since her dad left. Her mother has been nothing but an emotional wreck.

Harmonia mostly spent her nights over at one of the girls houses, but tonight she felt like going somewhere different, luckily she has yet to be caught for her sneaking out late at night only to return at the crack of dawn.

Her bag made a thump on the crystal tiled flooring of her bedroom, she let out a soft sigh as made her way to her bed. She sinks herself into her covers.

Twilight watches from the hallway, peering in on her daughter. She carefully made her way to her daughter’s room, she wanted to wake her up, but decided that it was too early to even be bothered.

“We will have this discussion later missy.” Twilight mutters, before turning back and heading back to bed.

***

Twilight looks down at her book, reading, but trying her best to keep her mind occupied, distracted from what she was wanting to talk to her daughter about.

“Do you have any idea how mortifying it is to find out that your daughter has been spending every night in somepony else’s home and they did bother to tell me?” Twilight said, her tone was nonchalant.

Harmonia stood frozen. “W-what?” She asks, her tone slightly heard.

Twilight looks up from her book, staring at her daughter.

Harmonia didn’t know rather to be mortified by her mother’s response or say something. Twilight walks over to her. “You told me you that you were at Applejack’s.”

“Well you never pay much attention to me anyways. So why does it matter where I am?” Harmonia asks.

“Uh, they think you’re their daughter!” Twilight explains.

Harmonia sighs, slightly annoyed by her mother’s overreaction. “These-These- These ponies.” Twilight said, further lecturing her daughter.

Harmonia pulls at her hair a bit. “They’re not just some random group of ponies, mom. They are-” Harmonia mutters, but Twilight cut her off with her sudden shouting.

“What?! What?! What are they?!” Twilight asks, her tone becoming impatient and upsetting.

Harmonia furrows her tiny eyebrows, equally getting frustrated. “I don’t know!” she yells back.

Starlight and Tempest walks into the living room, but neither of them acknowledged the pair.

“Because they act like you’re their- like they’ve adopted you!” Twilight said, continuing to rant. “Like I’m just some-- like I don’t even exist!” Twilight said, her tone rather heated.

Harmonia furrowed her eyebrows. “They take care of me!” she shout.

“They’re not your parents! Hey, that’s not even your real family, Harmony!” Said Twilight.

“They’re nice to me! They actually pay attention to me!” Harmonia shouts back, tears aligned her eyes.

Twilight’s sighs. “Well, they’re lovely, lovely ponies.”

Harmonia voice softens a bit. “Yeah.”

“But they don’t know you!” Twilight’s shouts.

“What?! And you do?!” Harmonia shot back.

Twilight laughs, one full of hurt and sarcasm. “I thought I did.” she said.

“What?! What do you even know about me?!” Harmonia asks.

“Because you hardly spend time with me anymore! Ever since Daddy left, you shut yourself away from everypony! Because you don’t know anything about me!” Harmonia said, continuing.

Twilight’s eyes burned with hot tears. “Hey! I am trying my best!” she shouts.

“They like me! Because they accept me for who I am, they- they pay attention to me! Something that you have hardly done! Why do you think I don’t want to be here mom?! Huh?” Harmonia questions her mother.

Twilight corals back a bit. “Okay wait.”

“No-- they don’t believe in ignoring me and actually want to spend it with me, instead of closing themselves off!” Harmonia said.

“I’m your mother my job is to take care of you!” Twilight said.

“No! I know I’m such a mistake, a disaster and that I am the worst thing that’s ever happened to you!” Harmonia explains.

“You!! Are the only--” Twilight paused hot, burning tears fell down her face as she still spoke. “The one good thing that has ever happen to me, Harmony! Sorry I can’t give you anything more than that!”

Twilight gave a sarcastic laugh. “Taturus!”

“Well, it’s not my fault other ponies can.” Harmonia mumbles.

***

Starlight sighed as she face planted her face into her pillow. She didn’t know what to think. She stood up another stallion. She knew that she didn’t want to be alone for the rest of her life but she didn’t know who to spend it with. A knock at the door was heard. Starlight groaned and ignited her horn and opened the door.

“Starlight? What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be meeting with that stallion?” Tempest asked as she closed the door.

“I stood him up….again” Starlight groaned. Tempest shook her head slightly and walked towards her.

“You know you can’t do this. I know that you want to find somepony special but you can’t keep rejecting every stallion you see.” Tempest said.

“I know. I don’t know what to do! I don’t want to be alone but I just can’t seem to find the perfect stallion! Urghhhh!” Starlight grumbled.

“Well, these things take time Starlight. I know that you are going to find somepony that you want to spend the rest of your life with.” Tempest said, sitting next to Starlight on the bed.

“Like who?” Starlight asked. Tempest blushed and was about to respond when the door flung open and there stood Trixie. Her mane was tangled and her eyes were bloodshot and watery.

“Trixie? What are you doing here?” Starlight said, turning over on her bed to see the unicorn. Trixie whimpered as she ran up to Starlight, tackling her in a hug.

“I caught Blueblood cheating on me!” Trixie cried into Starlight’s shoulder. Starlight’s eyes widen. She could feel Trixie shiver. Starlight wrapped her hooves around Trixie.

“What? How?” Starlight asked. Trixie took a step back and wiped her nose on Tempest’s mane. Tempest groaned in disgust and gently pushed the unicorn away. Trixie wiped her eyes and sighed.

“I saw him at a cafe in Canterlot. I was out shopping with Mystic and then my friend came up to me and said that she saw Blueblood with another mare. I was suspicious so I asked Mystic to stay with my friend as I went to find him. When I got to the cafe, I saw that he was flirting and kissing another mare! IN PUBLIC!” Trixie broke down in tears as she sulked to the ground. Starlight’s heart broke as she saw the state of her friend. Starlight then noticed something. She looked at her mane and it suddenly reminded her of snow and she saw that her coat was as blue as water. Something inside Starlight sparked. Starlight shook her head and put a hoof around Trixie.

“Sssh. How about you stay at the castle for a couple of days? There are plenty of rooms and I can cook you breakfast. Your kids can come along with you if you want them to.” Starlight suggested. Trixie looked up at Starlight. Trixie gave a small smile to her and hugged her tight. Starlight’s heart thumped in her chest. She hugged back warmly. Tempest rolled her eyes and began to walk out the door. Starlight noticed Tempest walking out the door, blushed and pulled away from Trixie.

“I can show you out the door Trixie.” Tempest said. Trixie and Starlight departed from their hug. When Trixie was gone, Starlight rushed out the door to give Twilight the news…..and to get her something to eat.

***

Twilight covers her head, shielding herself away in her pillow fort. It’s been five weeks since Discord has left her and Harmonia, and at the state she was in she wasn’t doing to good. Twilight, ate, but barely. Her friends was concerned for her well being, even her own daughter. She barely spoke to them, the only thing she did was stay in her room, surrounded by darkness and the her books.

She remained in her pillow fort, surrounded by wads of tissue paper. She just shield herself away from everypony. Starlight and Tempest came to check on her a few times, but they were scared to even try talking to her, in a fear that they would get yelled at.

The swarm of news about Celestia and Discord’s wedding was all over the small town of Ponyville and in the big city of Canterlot.

Twilight has heard about the news a week ago, and has shut herself in her room ever since then. She has even received a invitation from the “lovely couple”. She didn’t throw it away, she just simply laid it on her dresser, the envelope remained tore, the invitation peeking out of it.

Twilight sighs as she got out of her pillow fort. Her eyes red from the crying, she remained unsmiling, not even Pinkie Pie could make her smile. She began to walk in the darkness. She can across a photo of herself, Discord and Harmonia. Twilight sighs and tears began to fill her eyes. Twilight’s ears perked up at the sound of knocking at her door.

“Twilight? It’s me Starlight. Look, I know you don’t wanna talk but I know you haven’t eaten anything for the past couple days. I baked you something.” Starlight said.

Twilight sighs, not really wanting to talk to anypony at the moment, but opens the door instead. “Thanks Starlight, but I’m not hungry.” She mutters to the unicorn.

“Twilight, you have to eat something. You have us really worried about you. Not only me and your friends, but Harmonia as well.” Starlight explains as she levitates a bowl of warm soup.

“I said, I’m not hungry.” repeats Twilight, her teeth slightly bared.

“Twilight. You need to eat. I know you say that you are not hungry but you need to.” Starlight teleported herself into Twilight’s room and placed the bowl of soup down on Twilight’s bedside table.

“There! Now, I also have something to tell you. Trixie is going to be staying here for a couple of days with her kids. Unfortunately, something has happened and Trixie needs some time away from Blueblood.” Starlight said, cleaning up the dirty tissues and opening the curtains to let light in.

Twilight watches Starlight in annoyance, not really wanting to be bothered. Starlight looks on Twilight’s dresser and notices the wedding invitation.

“Oh. um…. You got a invitation? I got one as well. I was thinking of maybe going to it.” Starlight said.

Twilight scoffs. “Go right ahead, but you won’t be seeing me there.” Twilight said, her tone bitter.

“Well, I’m not sure. I was going to ask you if you were going, but I wasn’t sure if you had received an invitation or not.” Starlight said, making a duster appear and brushing off the dust off the dresser.

Twilight carefully watches as Starlight cleans her room, again she really didn’t feel like being pestered with at the moment.

“You know, Harmonia is worried about you. She notices that you have been distant towards her. In fact, you have been distant to all of us. Me, your friends, Tempest, Cadence and Shining Armor. You know that we are trying to help and comfort you ever since what happened with Celestia and Discord.” Starlight explained, wiping a piece of cloth onto a picture of Discord and Twilight.

Twilight sighs. “I know that, Starlight.” she mutters. Starlight continues cleaning her room until she spots a fancy wooden box underneath Twilight’s bed. Starlight ignited her horn and levitated the box out from under the bed with her magic.

“Hey Twilight? What’s this box doing under your bed?” Starlight asked, twirling it around the room.

Twilight looks at her friend, slightly confused by what she was talking about. Her eyes widen, at what Starlight had. It was all the letters that Twilight has kept over the past 4 ½ years that Discord has wrote to her every year on their anniversary, except this year.

“What are you doing?! Don’t touch that!” Twilight yelled, lighting her horn and grabbing the wooden box of Starlight. Starlight gasps at what she just witnessed.

“I’m sorry Twilight. I didn’t know what it was. It was under your bed and I wanted to see what it was” Starlight explained nervously.

“Nopony touches this!” Twilight yells, she quickly puts the box back where it belong. She looks at Starlight, the tone in her voice changed.

“I think you should leave.” Twilight said, she looked at her friend. Her expression unwavering.

“Twilight?” Starlight began.

Twilight levetates the bowl of soup, which was now cold. “I said, get out!” Twilight yells. She throws the soup, hurling it at Starlight.

Starlight ducks, she looked up her eyes widen. “Twilight, I-” Starlight started, but Twilight poofs into the hallway before she knew it.

Twilight then slams the door, in Starlight's face.

***

Celestia looked slightly concerned, but she shook the feeling off, feeling happy for herself as she was about to marry the "love" of her life.

Celestia looks out the small window, awaiting to walk through, her white wedding gown flowing softly behind her.

“Nothing to worry about, nothing to worry about Tia…” She said as she exhales deeply, she now gets ready for her wedding as a bridal maid knocked on her door. Everypony outside was happy for the two, cheering and clapping their hooves together.

At the end of the carpet, was Discord, Celestia walks down the aisle, smiling at Discord. Discord lets out a small smile, his guilt still hitting him, but he kept on shaking the feeling off.

Starlight and the ones who decided to watch the wedding happen watched as the Celestia walk down the aisle, Starlight frowned as she saw the sight of the two, feeling disgusted and a repulsive feeling hits her stomach as she slowly makes her way down isle.

Starlight careful watches the pair, as they each said their vows. Luna- as much as she despised it- had to be the one to marry them.

Luna puts on a fake front, so she wouldn't be seen as a bad role model, or worst princess.

“Fillies and gentlecolts we are gathered here today to witness to wedding of both my sister, Princess Celestia and Discord. If anypony here objects to why these two should not be-” Luna said.

“I object!” Shouts a voice from the crowd.

The crowd of ponies gasped.

“Who said that?” Discord asks, looking out of the sea of ponies. He then looks at Celestia who just shrugs in response.

“I did!” From the crowd, stood Starlight.

The ponies gasped. Celestia eyes narrowed at Starlight, awaiting for her to speak.

“I know the real reason why you wanted to marry Discord!! When Harmonia was crowned Princess, you knew that Discord and Twilight were going to stop ruling for a bit then you were going to scheme some sort of plan to get Discord to love you!” Starlight shouted. Everypony gasped and looking around, shocked and confused. Discord turned to Celestia, confused.

“Tia, is this true? Were you going to do that?” Discord asked.

Celestia looks out at the ponies then at Starlight before turning to Discord. “.... No, I could never do that!” Celestia said.

“LIAR!” Starlight shouted. Everypony gasped again in shock. Celestia narrowed her eyes at Starlight.

“I think it's time for you to leave.” Celestia said, her tone harsh.

“I am not going to leave until you tell the truth!” Starlight dared.

“Guards!” Celestia commended.

Guards began to surround Starlight as she glared. Starlight ignited her horn and teleported to Celestia and Discord.

“This is not right Celestia! You can’t do this! You can’t destroy Twilight’s relationship with Discord!” Starlight pointed a hoof at Celestia. Guards grabbed Starlight and pinned her to the ground.

“Guards, I would like you to escort Starlight out of Canterlot.” Celestia said, her tone serious. The guards nodded and dragged Starlight out of the room by the tail. Starlight squirmed to get out the grasp but it was no use.

“You won’t get away with this Celestia!” Starlight yelled as the doors closed. Luna cleared her throat.

“So, may we continue on with the ceremony?” Luna asks, she was just going to pretend that she did not just witness what happened.

Celestia looks to her sister and nods. “Do you Celestia take Discord to be your lawfully wedded husband?” Luna asks.

Celestia smiles. “I do.”

Luna turns to Discord. “Do you Discord take Celestia to be your lawfully wedded wife?” She asks.

“I do!” Discord said.

“Then by the power vested in me and the city of Canterlot. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.” Luna announces.

She then closes the book, walking off the stage, not wanting to witness anymore of this distasteful scene.

***

Celestia throws the bouquet of flowers over her, awaiting for one lucky mare to catch it.

The single mares gasped once they realized who caught the bouquet.

Luna.

The young sister gazes at the flowers, sheepishly, as she holds them in her aura.

As the small crowd of single mares dismissed, Celestia walks up to her sister a wide grin plastering on her face, but faults once she realized what her sister was doing.

“Luna what do you think your doing?” She questions the blue Alicorn.

Luna didn't say anything, but dispose of the flowers. “I do not do weddings or even forced weddings for that matter.” She said, her tone blunt before walking off.

Author's Note

Rewritten version: November 8, 2019

Luna doesn't have time for wedding drama, no one does, but don't worry when Starlight objected.... she was more than happy to call this wedding off and even more than happy to know that somepony was on her side.... for a little while anyways :twilightsheepish: :fluttercry:

Chapter 23

Chapter 23

Harmonia and Honey Crisp were walking down the long dirt path to Applejack's barn. Honey Crisp invited Harmonia to her house to help her with today’s chores. They were silent for half the way there. Even her friends even knew about what happened between Harmonia's mom and her dad. Honey Crisp gives her friend a soft sympathetic look.

"So...how's your mom doing?" Honey Crisps asks.

Harmonia bit the inside of her cheek, she really didn’t feel like talking about this at the moment, but she replies to her answer anyways. “She's fine...I hope…”She said, her voice hinting with worry and concern for her mother, tears started appearing in her eyes but she held it, not showing her friend.

“She's just resting…” She said. She tried to brighten her mood a bit, but instead she was finding herself wiping away her own tears from her eyes. Honey Crisp stops and looks at her friend. “Are you sure you are up for helping me out on the farm today? It's okay if you aren't.” She asks the tiny draconquess.

Harmonia looked at Honey Crisp with a warm smile on her face

“No it's alright! I can manage…” She mumbles to her, Harmonia gives her a fake smile and giving her the hint that she’s willing to help her out.

Honey Crisps sighs. “Okay, but if you ever need to leave to go on home I won't be offered." she said, as they both continue to walk.

Harmonia nods.

"So what is it that you need me to do exactly?" Harmonia questions her quite pegasus friend.

“You, my friend will help me, and my mother,” Honey Crisp said, crackling her bones, showing off to Harmonia a little, Harmonia giggled a little at the sight of what Honey Crisp was doing as she bucks wildly at the air.

“Buck down some apples!” She said happily, her body ready to kick down some apples.

Harmonia looks at her slightly confused. “You do know that I'm a draconequus, right? I can simply get the apples down with a snap of a paw.” She snaps her paw and an bright red apple appears before her.

She takes a bite out of it.

Honey Crisp giggles at the antic her friend was pulling. “Well then, I'm gonna have to teach you the traditional way!” Honey Crisp said, as she neared the barn, AppleJack waited, cracking her bones, they both watched as Applejack bucked down some apples off of a tree nearby.

Harmonia's mouth suddenly dropped at the sight, leaving her to drop her half eaten apple as well.

“See, what'd I told ya! If you want to drop some apples, ya gotta do it the apple way!” Honey Crisp says, smiling at her mother.

Harmonia gulps as she mutters to herself. “This is going to be harder than it looks.”

The girls approached Applejack, who was fanning herself with her cowgirl hat.

“Hey mama!” Honey Crisp said, giving her mother a hug. Harmonia stared at them for moment, watching as Applejack gives her daughter a hug back and thinking how lucky Honey Crisp was, but she shook the feeling away.

Applejack looks over Honey’s shoulder, realizing that her niece stood there, quietly watching them. “Oh Harmonia! How are you sugar cube?” She asks. Applejack walks over to her and hugs Harmonia tightly, giving her a kiss on the forehead.

Honey Crisp smiled at the sight. “Mama she's gonna help us buck some apples!” Honey Crisp announces.

Applejack looks at her niece, her eyes held an understanding and soft expression to them. “Is that so? Well we could always use an extra hoof around here on the farm.”

Harmonia was a bit nervous on what hard labor they were about to do. "Mhm. Just tell me what you need me to do." She said, her tone confident.

Applejack points to an apple orchard near by. “Well you see those Apples over there? I need you girls to buck them down. I need a few of those apples to make apple fritters for a bake sale I'm doing next weekend.”

Harmonia looks back from the row of apple trees to her aunt. “Uh… How many is a few?” She asks, her tone slightly nervous.

Applejack smirks at her niece and daughter. “You'll see.” She said.

The two looked behind to see 10 apple trees, with 20 apples each on one tree. “Now this is a challenge…” Mutters Honey Crisp.

Harmonia eyes widen, but she takes a deep breath. “Ok...I can do this..!” She said, with a hint of nervousness yet perseverance as she tries to boost her confidence up.

“You can use those buckets to carry the apples to the barn, think of this as exercise. And remember: no magic.” Applejack said, as she bucked another tree. “If you girls need me, I’ll just be right over there in the other apple orchard.” She then walks off.

Honey Crisp looks at Harmonia. “Well I guess we better get to work, those apples aren't going to buck themselves out of the tree.” She said, making her way toward the apple orchard. Harmonia nods and follows her friend.

Harmonia looks at the rows of trees, she gulps. "Remember no chaotic magic..." she thought to herself.

Honey Crisp stretched her legs and her hooves, ready to buck the first tree. “Before you start. Let me show you how it's done first!” She said, as she brought the basket and the cart near them.

Harmonia watched as he friend bucked the tree, all of the apples fell to the basket, some landed on the ground, but Honey Crisp picked up a few apples from the ground and placed it in the basket, Harmonia carries the basket that was filled with apples, she had a little difficult time carrying them but it was no hard job for her, she placed the first basket on the cart and moved to the next tree.

Harmonia watches her friend with curiosity. “So, you just kick apple trees all day?” She questioned Honey Crisp, not offending her and not disturbing her.

Honey Crisp wipes her forehead with her wing. “Sometimes, well it's a fun thing to do around the farm!” Honey Crisp replied with glee, Harmonia smiled back as they neared the next tree.

“Don't you do other fun things around here? I mean other than chores?” Harmonia asks, still following the pegasus around.

Honey Crisp hauls the bucket of apples to the side. “Well this is what we do in the farm all day, we buck apples for my Mama's apple fritters or something else.” She explains, she tosses an apple into the bucket.

They walk over the second row and stopped in front of another tree, Harmonia gulped.

“Think you can handle that?” She asks her friend as playful grin on her face etched.

Harmonia looked slightly worried at first, but built her confidence up. “Of course!” Harmonia beams. Harmonia turns her back to the tree and back up she raises her back hooves and tries to kick the apple tree, but she fell to the ground face first.

Honey laughs as she watched Harmonia drums her paw on the ground and snorting. “Haha very funny.” She said, her tone blunt and unamusing.

Honey Crisp giggles slightly at her friends failed attempt to buck. “Oh don't sweat it sugar, here let me teach you, alright first align yourself to the tree.” She then demonstrates to Harmonia, and Harmonia follows her friends instructions.

“What you wanna do is you have to build up strength on your legs, then kick as hard as you can, make sure your hooves are steady on the ground so that way you won't fall!” Honey Crisp explains the rest of the instructions to her friend, as she tried to boost Harmonia's confidence.

Harmonia nods and keeps her eyes on Honey Crisp, observing her every movement. “Now kick the tree!” She instructed. Harmonia did as she was instructed and kicks the tree, bucking down the apples.

Harmonia looks back at the apples, seeing that they were all in the basket. She squeals with excitement as she gives her friend a wide grin. “I did it!” She beams at Honey Crisp.

Honey Crisp hugs her friend, proud of her progress. “YOU DID IT!? THAT'S INCREDIBLE!” She squeals. Honey Crisp hugs Harmonia tightly and they both laughed.

Applejack watched in a distance, she smiled as the two were hanging very well.

“Okay now on to the next one!” Honey Crisp said, pushing onward, Harmonia gleefully follows behind her.

They neared the third tree, it's trunk so large and the apples were way up high, they both readied two baskets and the cart.

Honey Crisp looks at the third tree. “The third one has a stiff stump, so you might wanna help me with this one.” She said, as she gave her friend a smile, Harmonia giggled.

Honey Crisp looks back at Harmonia. “You ready?” She asks. Harmonia gave her friend a smile. “Why of course!” she beams

The two bucks the apples, once, twice, fifth. After the sixth attempt the apples finally came loose from the tree as they fell to the ground.

Harmonia looks at the baskets, a questionable look etched on to her face. “Do you think this will be enough?” She asks.

Honey looks at the baskets they have already filled up. There was two at each tree that they have already bucked down filled to the brim with apples.

Honey looks back at Harmonia. “Well mama didn't exactly say how many apples she needed for the apple fritters.” she said.

Harmonia looks at the row of trees that still had apples on them. “I guess we can do one more tree?” Harmonia suggested.

Honeycrisp was done picking up the remaining apples on the ground and putting them on the basket and onto the cart.

Honey Crisp smiles. “Let's go!” She beams.

The two ran to the last tree, the last tree was the biggest tree of them all, with 30 apples on it.

Harmonia eyes widen at the last tree. “Now this is gonna be a problem…” she mutters.

Harmonia thought for a second, but her thoughts were interrupted by Honey Crisp.
“Well since this is a big one, how bout use your magical powers!” She suggested.

Harmonia looks at her, a confusing and worried look displayed on her face. “Are you sure? Aunt Applejack said that appletree bucking was traditional.” Her tone laced with concerned and worry.

“Well this tree big ain't it?” She asks. They both looked at the tree, Honey Crisp readied herself, and bucked the tree, sadly one apple fell from the tree.

“She'll never know the difference, don't worry!” She said.

Harmonia bit her bottom lip thinking to herself, she then breaths to calm herself. “Okay if you say so.” She mutters to Honey Crisp.

Honey Crisp watches with giddiness and excitement as Harmonia snaps her paw and a few apples levitates from the tree to the bucket.

Honey Crisp crosses her hooves over her chest, her eyes closed as a smug smile played onto her muzzle. “She will never tell the difference.” She said, her tone proud.

Applejack walks up behind the two. “Oh is that so?” She said, her tone equally as smug. Harmonia eyes widen as she lost concentration on the apples, they fell to the ground and onto her head.

Harmonia held her head. “Ow!”

Applejack looks at the girls, a stern look on her face. “What in tarnation do you think y'all are doing?” She asks, her eyebrows furrowed.

Honey Crisp spins around quickly, coming face to face with her mother. “Oh hi Mama haha..ah…” She said, with a nervous giggle.

Harmonia looks at her aunt. “I'm just practicing my levitation spell Aunt Applejack!” She fibs.

“Yeah! What she said!” Honey Crisp said, lying to her mother.

AppleJack looks at the two a perplexed, but crossed look displayed on her face. “Now you know I'm the element of honesty, so you better tell me the truth.” She said with a blunt tone.

Honey Crisp looks at her mother in fear. Harmonia looks at her friend, her eyes widen not knowing what to say. “I'm sorry Aunt AppleJack, we were gonna use magic on that tree...just to get the apples…” Harmonia said, finally admitting the truth.

Applejack expression softens a bit. “Ah sugar cubes you could've called me to help you both.”She said her voice now soft.

Applejack back into the tree, getting ready to buck. “Here, help me buck this tree.” She said. Harmonia smiles at how understanding her aunt was.

“Sure thing Mama!” Honey Crisp said, joining her mother and Harmonia. All three of them lined their self against the tree, readying their legs.

“At the count of three, we're gonna buck this tree, in 1...2...3!” Applejack said.

The three bucked the tree, apples falling over them, but they didn't mind, they grabbed the bucket and baskets, Applejack moved the cart to them, putting the buckets and Baskets on the cart they made their way to the barn.

AppleJack wipes sweat from her forehead. “That was fun ain't it kids?” She said.

Harmonia looks at the ground. “..... If you say so.” She mutters. Honey looks at her friend confused.

Honey Crisp lays a wing over her small draconequus friend. “Harmonia? Are you okay?” She asks.

Harmonia sniffles. “I'm fine…” she mutters,as tears started to show up again, but she resisted a little.

“Sugarcube did something got your eye? Here let me see.” Applejack said. She placed the cart on a tree stump, and then she came to check on Harmonia. Applejack moved a hoof to her eye.Harmonia started sobbing a little. Applejack looks at Harmonia, a sorrow look on her face.

“Harmonia? What's the matter sugarcube.” She asks, her tone was sympathetic towards the tiny draconequus.

“I-its n-nothing...a-aunt Applej- Jack…” Harmonia said, trying to speak up, but the unravelling emotions just kept on hitting her, she started sobbing even more.

AppleJack wraps Harmonia into a tight hug, Harmonia hugged back tightly, covering her face on Applejack's fur, she cried softly into it.

Applejack looks to her daughter. “Babycakes, can you bring the Cart to the barn, I'll be with you shortly.” AppleJack said to Honey Crisp. Honey Crisp nods and goes to grab the cart to take to the barn.

Leaving Applejack and Harmonia alone.

Applejack looks down at Harmonia, who remains crying in her fur. She strokes her mane, her tone going soft. “Sweetheart, what's bothering you?” She asks.

“M-mommy...D-daddy…” Harmonia voice goes raggedy, as she cries louder than before, she tried to stop herself from crying but couldn't control herself, her emotions were all over the place.

“I-im S-sorr...sorry...Aunt A-Applejack!” She said, she started to grit her teeth, controlling herself to stop crying.

“It's okay!” Applejack mutters, as she strokes her mane.

They stayed quiet for a moment as they listen to the birds chirping. Applejack eyes remained on the ground, as she was still hugging her niece. “I heard what happened Sugarcube and I'm so sorry it did.” She mumbles.

Harmonia moves away from Applejack's hug. She looks at her aunt, tears aligned her eyes. “Why did it have to happen to me?” She asks.

Applejack sighs, not knowing how to answer her niece's questions at first, then she spoke. “Things happen for a reason sweetie but I tell you one thing, it's not your fault sweetie.” She explains. Applejack gently puts her hoof on Harmonia's chin and she gently made her look at her.

“All families aren't perfect, and we should accept things that will happen to all of us, I'll be honest with you on that, we should accept, what's coming to us, and we learn from them, sometimes we cope with them.” Applejack smiles at Harmonia, her tone soft. Harmonia stops crying, she wiped her tears and she smiles, AppleJack smiled back, kissing her cheek.

“Now let's go, you’re gonna help me make apple fritters with Honey Crisp, and I'll let you taste one.” Applejack said, Harmonia nods and follows Applejack inside the barn.

***

The kitchen was slightly messy, but still was clean enough to maneuver in it.Harmonia sniffs the air, it smelled like apple fritters and cinnamon.

“It smells soooo good in here Aunt Applejack! Now where are those apple fritters.” She breams looking around the kitchen's table for them.

Applejack giggles at her niece.

“Mama makes the best Apple fritters!” Honey Crisp beams, sitting at the table.

“The apple fritters are still getting ready, we just gotta wait for them.” Applejack explains.
Harmonia thought of her mother and how much she love Applejack's baking. “Do you mind if I take some to Mommy?” She asks.

Applejack smiles at her. “Of course not sweetie.” She said. Applejack checks the oven, before turning back to her niece and daughter.

Applejack rubs her hoof. “Speakin’ of Twilight, how is she doing?” She asks. Applejack heard the news and was concerned for friend.

“She's just taking a rest she said, but above that she's fine.” Harmonia replied with a hint of concern for her mother, but then she smells the Apple fritters, both Honey Crisp and Harmonia's mouth were open, saliva dripping from their mouths.

“I see my two kiddies are hungry.” Applejack giggled at the two, as she readies the plates for the two of them, placing them on the countertop.

Applejack then got four apple fritters in a container, she lets it cool for awhile until it was ready for Harmonia to take home to Twilight.

“Go on! Try some!” She said, smiling at the two.Harmonia and Honey both bit into the apple fritters.

Harmonia savors the sweet taste of the tart. ”Mmmm! This is so good Aunt Applejack!”

Applejack smiles. “I'm glad you enjoy it!” She said.

“I told ya Mama makes the best apple fritters in Equestria.” Honey Crisp, brags. She then takes a bit of her apple fritters.

Applejack blushes at her daughters comment. “Ah sucks!” She said, she turns to wipe down the counter and stove top.

Rara enters the kitchen, smiling at Applejack and the kids. “It's true.” She said, smiling at Applejack.

“Aunt Rara!” Harmonia beams.

“Hey hon.” Applejack hugs Rara.

“This is the best Apple fritters in Equestria!” Honey Crisp beams, she enjoyed every last bit of her apple fritter.

“Hey Harmonia! How's my little super star?” Rara asks.

“.... Could be better.” Harmonia mutters, she remains sitting in the chair beside Honey Crisp. Rara looks at her niece in confusion.

Applejack puts a hoof to Rara ear whispering to her. “I'll tell you later Hun.” She said, her tone low and hushed. Rara looks from Harmonia to Applejack.

Rara then decides to change the subject, her eyes landed upon the plate of apple fritters. “I see that you made your Equestria famous apple fritters.” she said.

Applejack points her hoof over to the girls. “The girls helped me, they were the best Apple buckers I've seen in this farm today.” She smiles at the girls.

“Harmonia and I help mama buck down some apple trees!” Honey Crisp beams.

Harmonia giggles. “Honey crisp taught me.” she said.

“Well you two did a wonderful job today!” Beams Rara, proud of the work the girls did.
The sun began to set, as golden arays shone through Applejack's kitchen window, casting a soft glow in the room and wooden floor. Harmonia looks at the time. She scarfs down the last bit of apple fritter, before grabbing the container that held extra apple fritters for her mother.

Harmonia gets out of the chair, making her way towards the door. “I guess it's time for me to go…” she mutters.

Applejack looks at her a soft expression was on her face. “Sugarcube, your always welcome to come back here and hang out with us.” She smiles at Harmonia.

“Just remember what I said to you alright.” Applejack winks at Harmonia. She walks over to her and kissed Harmonia's forehead before she leaves, Harmonia hugged Honey Crisp and Applejack, the two hugged her back, along with Rara.

Harmonia moves away from the hug and makes her way to the door, walking out.

***

Harmonia walks down the path of Sweet Apple Acres. She didn't realize how long of a road the Apple family had. She then teleports herself, back to Ponyville, but only to be mobbed by the press.

It's been 9 weeks since the incident happened, yet that seems to be the only news that these ponies' seem to be interested in now a days.

“Harmonia Sparkle, is it true that your mother and father broke up!” A female newspony shouts.

Other news reporters came in to interrogate the small mare.

“How long will this last Harmonia Sparkle?” Asks another one. Harmonia looked slightly terrified from the mob of reports.

“Don't you have anything better to do?” Harmonia mutters, slightly annoyed by their obnoxious questions.

“Have you been informed about the marriage of Princess Celestia and your father discord?” Shouts a third news reporter.

All of the news reporters were asking the same Question, Harmonia's eyes widened at the words she heard.

This statement broke her. “Wait..... What?!” She shouts. The news reporter shocked by Harmonia's reaction, all of the news reporters were silent, They backed off slowly from Harmonia. Harmonia's eyes were tearing up, she drops the apple fritter container on the ground, she started to cry.

“Daddy, replaced us…” Harmonia mutters.

Twilight peeks outside of her castle, her eyes widen at the sight of the news reports surrounding her daughter.

Twilight looked furious as the news reports bombarded her daughter. Twilight's eyes were tearing up, her gaze was angry upon the mob of news reporters. “Step away from my daughter!” She announces, using her Royal Canterlot voice, which was stearn and angry at them.

The news reporters ran away, leaving Harmonia crying on the ground. Twilight quickly runs over to Harmonia and wraps a wing around her, enveloping her in a tight hug. Harmonia hugged her so tightly, that she would not let go.

“I-is i-it true...M-mommy…” she whimpers.

This is not how she wanted Harmonia to find out, much less with who. Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, let's go in first alright, we will talk there…” she mutters, softly. Twilight carried Harmonia, her face covered. Twilight looked at the Apple Fritters that AppleJack made, she smiled a little and she tried to change the subject.

“Did Applejack make her delicious apple fritters, again?” Twilight asks. Harmonia nodded a little.

Twilight and Harmonia went into the castle together.Twilight shuts the door behind her and looks at her daughter with sorrow and hurt in her eyes.

“Is it true mommy?” She asks again, her voice small and quiet. Twilight shook her head, tears filled her eyes.

“Yes, sweetie it's true.” She mutters.

“But why would daddy choose a princess, if your a princess too?” Harmonia asks, slightly confused.

“Because he wanted somepony of higher power.” Twilight thought to herself.

She bushes Harmonia question to the side. “Come on! Let's enjoy these apple fritters.” She said, changing the subject. Twilight levitates the container and takes the food into the kitchen.

Harmonia exams her mother carefully. She looked like she was about to have a major breakdown.

“Mommy? Are you sure your okay?” Harmonia carefully asks, not wanting to upset her mother.

“ ..... I'm fine sweetie really.” Twilight mutters as she places plates for the both of them.

Harmonia bit into her apple fritter. “You know mommy.... If you ever need anypony to talk to-” Harmonia stated, but got cut off.

Twilight broke down crying, she pushes away her plate. “Talk?! Talking isn't going to help, nothing is going to help! He has made his choice! I hope he is happy with it to!” She yells. Harmonia jumps slightly at her mother's voice.

Without warning, Twilight gets up from the chair and teleports into the castle's throne room where the Friendship map stood.

Harmonia just sat there, looking at her Apple fritter, she then started to cry, she dropped her fritter and she left her seat, she curled up into a ball, crying softly into her fur.

“It's my...f-fault...that...daddy left.” She whimpers.

***

Twilight stood in her throne room, crying. “...... I can't do this anymore.....” She thought to herself.

Harmonia opens the door to Twilight throne room. “Mommy?” Harmonia asks.

Twilight's ears pricks up at her daughter's voice. Twilight pauses and looks at her daughter. She had finally came to a conclusion.

Twilight sighs, her breath raggedy. “........ Harmonia, sweetie, I-I can't take care of you anymore.” Harmonia looks at her mother as if her heart broke more than it did.

“Mommy......? But-” Harmonia was speechless. Was her mother giving her away? She was the only thing that Harmonia had left, that she consider family.

Twilight sighs. “I'm in no condition to do so at the moment. So, I'm going to send you to live with one of the girls.” she explains.

Tears came into Harmonia's eyes.

Twilight’s cutie mark started to glow, signaling that somepony needed her help. Twilight looks down at her cutie mark and back at her daughter who had tears in her eyes. “I have a Friendship Mission to attend to and I can't risk the thought of taking you with me.” Twilight explains.

Harmonia ran to her mother, she hugged her ever so tightly, she cried and pleaded to her mom. “MOMMY PLEASE! DON'T LEAVE ME!” She cried out, her body was shaking, her eyes bloodshot. “I LOVE YOU SO MUCH MOMMY...I DON’T WANT TO LOSE YOU TOO!” She rambles on.

Twilight's eyes widen. “Sweetie, relax! It's just for a few days. It's not like I'm going to be gone for an eternity.” Twilight explains as she hugs her daughter.

Twilight unwraps her hoofs around her daughter’s neck. “Now, I will be leaving for the Crystal Empire. I should be back in a day or two so no need to worry.” She explains, her tone clam.

Twilight smiles down at her daughter. “Where am I staying?” She wonders.

Twilight teleports the two to Pinkie Pie's house. “You Will be staying with your Aunt Pinkie Pie.” She said. Harmonia eyes widen with excitement.

Pinkie Pie pops her head out the door. “Hello Twilight and Harmonia! What can I do for you?” She asks, her voice was bubbly and cheerful.

Twilight stifled a small giggle. “No order today, Pinkie. I actually have a Friendship Mission to attend and I was wondering if you could watch Harmonia for a few days?” She asks.

Pinkie Pie beams at the thought of the twins having their first sleepover, especially Confetti Pop.

“Of course! You can bunk with Confetti for the night. I'm sure she wouldn't mind.” Pinkie Pie

“Of course not!” Confetti Pop shouts from somewhere in the house.

Twilight sighs with relief. “Thank you, both of you. I shouldn't be gone long, but less than two days. I should be back soon.

She kisses her daughter head, one last time before departing.

“I love you. Be good.” Mutters Twilight.

Harmonia nods. “I will.” She gave a small smile to her mother. Twilight walks out the door and down to the train station.

“Hi Confetti!” Beams Harmonia.

“HARMONIA IT'S NICE TO SEE YOU!” Confetti hugged Harmonia tightly, Harmonia giggled and she hugged her back.

“It's been awhile, did you eat anything before you came yet?” She asked her friend.

Harmonia nods. “I had apple fritters.”

She laughed and she nuzzled her. “Come on! I'll help you get settled in.” Harmonia nods and follows Confetti to her room.

Harmonia, placed her belongings on Confetti's room. Confetti was excited to hang out Harmonia.

“I haven't had a sleepover in forever! The last one was with Ophelia, and let's just say it ended in-” Confetti thought for a moment, thinking to herself, thinking of the right words how the sleepover with Ophelia ended.

“Thievery?” Harmonia questions the pink filly.

Confetti giggles. “Exactly!”

Harmonia laughs at her bubbly pink friend’s bubbly attitude. “I'm just glad she didn't steal anything valuable.” She explains.

“The only thing “valuable” we have in my mom’s party cannons, not sure what she would want with those.” Harmonia giggled at Confetti, Confetti laughed back.

The two came back downstairs, seeing Pinkie Pie baking.

“Is somepony hungry?” asks Pinkie Pie, her tone naturally bubbly and upbeat.

“Me!” Confetti said, bouncing her way to the table.

Harmonia giggles at her friends antics, she remind her so much of her aunt. Harmonia then sits down on the chair near the kitchen counter top.

“I guess I can go for one, what are you baking Aunt Pinkie Pie?” asks Harmonia.

“Well lucky for you girls, I'm baking your favorite treat Confetti.” Pinkie Pie said, pulling out the muffin pan from the oven.

“Chocolate strawberry cupcakes?” Confetti guesses.

Pinkie nods her head. “Yep. Here you go! Don't worry, there's more for you Harmony!” Pinkie Pie said, looking at her niece.

Pinkie Pie gives a cupcake to both of the girls. “These look delicious, thank you!” Harmonia said.

Cotton Berry came into the kitchen. “Is that Chocolate Strawberry cupcakes?” He asks.

“Yep! Want one?” Confetti asks her twin brother.

“I’ll pass.” He said. He then notices their friend, Harmonia. “Oh! Hello Harmonia. What are you doing here? Wait, Confetti didn’t constantly pester you for you to have a sleepover did she?” He asks.

Harmonia giggles. “No, not this time. Mommy had to go on a mission so, I’m staying here for a while.” Harmonia explains.

Cotton nods his head, taking in the information. He then rams a cupcake onto Confetti Pop’s muzzle. “Hey, what was that for?” She wines.

“That was for a prank you pulled on me four weeks ago, you really thought I’d forget dear sister?” He said, snickering at how ridiculous his sister looked.

He cocks a goofy grin at her. “You can’t out prank the master.” He said, his tone nonchalant.

“So you think you can out prank, Harmonia?” Confetti Pop said, her tone slightly sassy.

Harmonia gave Cotton a cocky grin, his eyes widen. “Oh! Hehe… look at the time! It’s way past my bedtime. So bye!” He poofs out of the room, quickly.

“He thinks he is a champion of pranks, but between you and me, I think he is just scared to be beaten by a girl.” Confetti Pop explains.

Harmonia giggles.

***

Twilight gets off from the train, she is in Canterlot, her cutie mark still glowing, it started guiding her to the friendship problem she needs to fix. “I wonder where this is leading me…” the young alicorn mutters to herself, out loud.

She then flies towards the problem, her cutie mark guiding her, she went past the big crystal courtyard, she then enters a town nearby. “Excuse me, but does anypony here have a friendship problem?” She asks, her tone cautious not wanting to trigger anypony into another fight.

“I heard a ruckus nearby, just south of here, heard somepony fighting, but I don't wanna intrude Princess Twilight, but we're glad you're here to resolve this problem!” The Pony said, pointing to the direction the problem was located.

Twilight follows the sound to the loud arguing, this time running into another group of ponies. “Hi, Princess of Friendship here. I'm not entirely sure what is going on here, but I'm sure whatever it is. We can work it out.” Twilight said, her tone sounding welcoming, calm and inviting.

“Oh it’s not us your highness, but we heard a ruckus in the castle, we think it's Shining and Cadence who's having a problem, were so glad you could come and fix this Princess!” The pony said, as he sighed in relief.

“Sure! It's no problem at all!” Twilight beams.

Twilight thinks to herself. “I've never known them two to have a fight in their whole life. This is a first even for me.” The young alicorn thanked the townsponies and heads to the Crystal Empire.

As she neared the castle, she saw a small window opening on the side, revealing Cadence and Shining face to face, their stiletto of their shadow view made it look like they're arguing. Loud voices were heard inside the castle, but not to loud, making it feel like they are actually arguing,

Twilight lands on the front door, knocking not to loud, but just a little bit to be heard. Cadence answers the door. “Oh Twilight, good to see you!” Cadence said, she wraps her sister in law in a tight hug, Shining smiled at the sight.

“Hey Twi, what brings you here?” Shining asks,

“Well, I was summoned here by the Friendship Map.” She explains.

Twilight looks between the two. “Is everything okay?””

Cadence was slightly confused. “A Friendship problem?” she wonders.

“But were not even arguing Twi, and the friendship map call you here?” Shining said, who was equally confused by his sister statement.

Twilight was slightly baffled. “Indeed it did! But if you two aren't the problem then who is?” She asks.

Cadence releases a little chuckle. “There's no problem!”

“Maybe it's somepony else's friendship problem nearby the castle, but your here so, do you want to come inside?” Shining asks.

“Yeah, it's so nice to have you back Twilight.” Cadence hugs her once more, and she guides her inside the castle.

“Come on, you should rest up.” Cadence insisted her hospitality to her sister-in-law.

“Well I did tell Harmonia that I'd be gone for a day or two..... Sure why not.” she said, making her way inside.

Shining closes the door gently and he goes back to patrolling with the guards.

“Two days? Who is Harmonia staying with? One of your friends?” Cadence asks, as she readied drinks for the two, she readied two glasses of Lemon juice.

Twilight takes the drink from Cadence. “Yeah, she's staying with Pinkie Pie from the time being.” Twilight explains.

“How is everything with you? Are you doing well with yourself lately?” Cadence asked, with a hint of concern and worry for her sister in law, she then wraps a wing behind Twilight, rubbing her back gently.

Twilight ears flatten slightly. “...... Eh it could be better, honestly.”

“Twilight... did you have another breakdown?” Cadence asked, not wanting to trigger Twilight in anyway, she then takes a sip from her glass and she placed it on the table.

“Kind of, but I'm okay now.... Wait how did you know about my breakdown?” Twilight was curious to know how her sister in law could have known about her breakdown.

“You were like that even before Harmonia's time.” Cadence light giggle at Twilight, nudging her playfully. “But I'm glad to see you, lightening yourself up. And I'm glad your doing well. How's Harmonia by the way?” she asks.

Twilight takes a sip of her drink. “She's hanging in there.”

“Well I'm glad you two are doing well for yourselves!” Cadence replied, happy to see her sister in law finally recuperating from all of the shenanigans that happened.

“You can sleep in the spare guest room we have tonight, Shining's making dinner.” Cadence explains.

“And you know how he loves to bake hay apple pie for desert.” She said.

Twilight thought for a moment. “I haven't had that since I was a filly. Mom use to make it all the time when I was feeling down.” Twilight explains.

“Well your brother learned from the best, anyway how is Ms. Sparkle?” Cadence said taking another sip from her glass, she then swirls the cup around.

“My mom is doing fine, honestly I haven't seen her at all since her trip to Las Pegasus with dad.” Twilight explains.

“I see, what are they doing there if you don't mind me asking?” Cadence asked, she then finishes her glass, and she placed it on the table top, she then wipes her mouth with a towel and she folds the towel.

"I'm not entirely sure, but I think they just needed a getaway. You know how much mom loves a "relaxing" vacation." Twilight explains, giving her sister in law a light smirk.

“And by relaxing you mean something entirely wild?” Cadence gives a playful smile to Twilight.

Twilight giggles. “Exactly!”

Shining quickly stops by the room. “Wait mom never told me she went on vacation!” Shining frowns, the two girls laughed at him.

“This always happens to me…” He mutters. His pole arm fell to his head and he looked around looking for someone who dropped the pole arm, he resumes back to guarding.

Twilight giggles. “That's because you never listen.” She said, her tone blunt.

Cadence gets off the chair and brings her glass to the kitchen sink, Flurry Heart goes downstairs, when she saw Twilight, an exciting look came upon her face.

“AUNT TWILIGHT!” Flurry Heart lunges at Twilight and hugs her tightly.

Twilight giggles and hugs her niece tightly. “Hey Flurry Heart!” she said.

“I didn't know you were coming!” she beams, her tone was curious laced with excitement.

Twilight softly giggles. “I'm just here to stay for 2 days, your cousin is with her friends house, so I'll be staying for awhile.” Twilight smiles at her niece, she kisses her forehead and wraps a wing around her.

Flurry smiles at her aunt. “Is everything okay?” She wonders. Flurry could have sworn she saw a different emotion displayed on her aunt’s face, but quickly disappeared. She was curious to know why Twilight was staying for two days and not just here for a visit.

“Everything is fine sweetie, your Aunt Twily just needs a vacation.” Twilight smiled at her niece, Flurry Heart smiles back and she nuzzled Twilight.

“Oh okay!” Flurry said.

Crystal was the next pony to stop by. “Aunt Twilight? What are you doing here?” She asks.

“Hey Crystal, I'm just here for 2 days, how are you little one?” Twilight asked Crystal.

“I'm fine.” She smiles.

Twilight looks at her sister in law. “How about you girls go and I'll see you in the morning.” Twilight yawns.

“Alright! Goodnight Aunt Twilight!” They said in unison. The two girls ran upstairs, going to their rooms. Cadence goes to Twilight.

“Are you sure you don’t want to join us for desert?” Cadence asks.

Twilight looks over at the clock it was only 9:00 pm.

“I might join later. For now, I think I’m just going to get settled in my room. You can just call me down when Shining has the pie done.” Twilight said.

“Alright, me and Shining are gonna make the pie now, just rest up alright?” Cadence smiles at her sister in law, then turns her attention to the hallway, leaving Twilight alone.

Twilight rises from Cadence's bed and makes her way to her room.

***

“I'm glad Twilight is recuperating from all of this.” Cadence said, looking at her husband she gave him a small smile.

“My sister is the toughest, I'm even scared of her...hehe...he.” Shining releases a nervous laugh, hoping her sister didn't hear it.

Cadence laughed. “Relax, she’s in her room.”

“I'm glad Aunt Twilight is feeling better.” Flurry said, her tone calm.

Crystal thought for a moment. “But she still seems slightly off edge, at least to me she does.”

Cadence softly sighs. “She just needs more time dear.” Cadence smiles at her daughters, she then goes back to readying the ingredients.

“Baby cakes why don't you two play with your toys for a while, mommy and daddy are quite busy with cooking.” Cadence asked Flurry and Crystal, they both nod as they left the kitchen going to their room to play with their toys.

Cadence and Shining both grab the ingredients from the fridge and cabinets.

“Okay, so we have: apples, pie crust and hay. The only thing we are missing is the sugar.” Cadence lists the ingredients in front of her.

“I think we have some in the storage room, hang on.” Cadence said, walking to the pantry. She illuminates her horn for light.“Found some!”

She brings the sugar out of the pantry and places it on the countertop. “Alright, let's get baking, wait! Shining? Can you call Flurry in here to help out?” She asks her husband.

Shining nods and calls for his daughter. “Flurry, sweetie can you come help your mom with the batter?” He asks.

“Coming!” Flurry shouts back.

Flurry Heart flew through the kitchen, she stops at the heels of her mother, ready to help her mix the batter, Shining on the other hand had a hard time slicing the apple. Cadence walks over to her husband. “Here let me.” She said, as she takes the knife from her husband. Cadence chopped the apples fast, she then lands the knife safely on the chopping board

“I'm so lucky to be your husband…” Shining swoons at his wife. Cadence laughs and rolls her eyes playfully at her husband.

Flurry laughs, she was just done mixing the batter, she then gives the bowl to her mother.

“Is this done? Good, now time for the apples.” Cadence said, she grabs the sliced apples from her aura and pours them into the batter.

‘Can I lick the spoon?” Flurry asks.

“Yeah can we?” Shining asks, agreeing along with his daughter.

Cadence gave the two a smug, but playful smile. “Nope, not yet.” She giggles while mixing the apples with the batter and the hay she levitates the hay off the counter, putting it into the batter along with the apples, mixing the ingredients together.

“Aw…” they said in unison. Cadence then pours the mix into the pie crust and puts it into the oven.

“Now all we have to do is wait.” She said.

Cadence yawns, cleaning up the kitchen, Shining and Flurry helping along. “Thank you both for helping me out.” She said, as she wipes down the counter.

Shining sets the timer for 30 minutes. “Shining do you think you could go get Twilight to tell her that the pie will be done soon?” Cadence asks.

Shining nods and leaves the room.

***

Twilight lays down on her bed, curled up, her wings wrapped around herself, she stared blankly on the wall.

“I don't get it...why did the friendship map call me here…” She thinks to herself, she shakes off the thinking and she tries to catch some sleep.

She slept for thirty minutes. Until she was awoken by a voice.

It was brother coming to get her.

“Twily, wake up the pie is done.” Shining Armor said, gently shaking his sister.

“What time is it?” She asked.

“It’s only 10, but if you would rather go ahead and just go back to sleep then we won’t be offended.” Shining said, giving his sister a smile.

She rubs her eyes, and she got up from her bed, she yawned softly and she stood up. “Nah it's fine, I could use some of your pie.” Twilight smiles at her brother, she then goes down stairs, followed by Shining from behind.

*

“Is aunt Twilight gonna eat with us?” Flurry asks, her mother.

“Don't worry she will, she's just tired that's all sweetie.” Cadence explains, giving her daughter a soft smile.

Crystal finishes her food, she then pushes the plate away and goes up stairs, without a word.

Twilight enters the kitchen a small smile appears on her face. “It smells soooo good in here!”

Cadence levitates a plate to her. “Here you go, Twilight.” She said, giving Twilight her slice of the pie.

Twilight receives her slice of the pie, she smells it first, savoring the sweet smell of apple. She levitates the fork and cuts the pie into bit size chunks, she then ate the first half. Her mouth filled with yummy bliss as she savored the pies flavor.

“You and my brother, make the best pies in all of Equestria!” Twilight said, savoring each bite.

“Mommy and Daddy makes them really good aunt Twilight!” Flurry said, giving her aunt a toothy grin.

Cadence giggles. "Well thank you Twilight." She said.

“I'm sorry I came down late, I was nearly a sleep.” She said, her tone was sincere.

Twilight thought to herself. “I still don't know why the friendship map brought me here, I see no problem here.”

“Anyway, do we have anything to do tomorrow? Like princess duties and what not?” Twilight asked Cadence, she ate a piece of her pie once more, savoring the flavor again.

Cadence thought for a moment. “..... Well, our schedule is pretty clear for tomorrow, except Shining has guard duty, but that's about it.”

“Alright, I can hang out with the kids tomorrow if you like, we can always take a stroll outside.” She recommended at Cadence, she ate the last piece of her pie, and then she levitated the plates and utensils on the sink.

“Thanks for the pie Cadence, it's really tasty!” She gave a smile to her sister in law.

“You are always welcome Twilight!” Cadence said, her tone calm.

“Hey what about me? I helped to!” Shining whimpers.

“Oh thank you big brother!” Twilight said, giggling as she hugged her brother.

Twilight yawns. “I think I'm going to head to bed.” She mutters.

“Us as well, we will see you in the morning.” Cadence said.

They parted ways the Empire remain quiet for the night. Twilight's hooves where the only sound echoing in the hallway. A cold chill swept through the hallway which sent shivers down Twilight's spine.

Twilight stops. “Hello? Is anypony here!?” She calls out into the darkened hallway, but nopony answers. Twilight shrugs and heads on to bed.

“It must be my imagination.” Twilight thought to herself.

Once she got to her room, she made her way to her bed. Snuggling down in her cover, she turns on her side and drifts off to sleep.

From a far the mysterious visitor watches as their mouth curls into a sinister smile, their eyes glowing white.

As they watch the Princess of Friendship sleep peacefully, the only thing that illuminated the room was her cutie mark.

Chapter 24

Chapter 24

Twilight yawns as she opens her eyes, she came face to face with four pairs of eyes, both belonging to Crystal and Flurry Heart.

Twilight screams. “Do you girls know what time it is?” Twilight asks, as she narrows her eyes at her nieces.

“Yeah, it's 9:00 am.” Crystal said, her tone blunt.

“And you promised us that you would spend the day with us!” Flurry said.

Twilight rubs the sleep from her eyes, and yawns. “I did promise, but why this early? Ponies are still asleep you know.” Twilight narrows her eyes at the two.

“Well we can always have fun before anypony else wakes up.” Flurry suggested.

Twilight sighs. “Fine. What do you girls want to do?” She asks the girls.

“We can have a picnic in the garden.” Crystal suggests.

“That sounds like a nice idea Crystal.” Twilight said, placing her hooves on the cold hard crystal floor. Flurry jumped up and down around Crystal excitedly.

“This is gonna be so much fun! Come on Aunt Twilight!” Flurry Heart grabs her aunt's hoof and the three hurry out the door.

****

The picnic blanket landed safely on the grass as the sun reflected off the leaves. Crystal gently sat down as Flurry laid down on the blanket. Twilight giggled as she levitated a orange platter of cucumber sandwiches placing it on the blanket along with a pitcher of lemonade.

“Thank you for inviting me girls. I guess I needed this.” Twilight said, taking in a deep breath of fresh air.

“You're welcome, Aunt Twilight.” smiles Flurry Heart.

Crystal takes a bite of her sandwich, savoring the flavor. “We could have went to the spa, but Flurry suggested something more relaxing.” Crystal rolls her eyes.

“The spa would have been a nice idea, Crystal, but this is simply relaxing as well.” Twilight smiles at her niece.

Twilight looked around the garden and frowned. The garden looked like the one back at her castle. Her eyes became watery as she remembered the times she had with Discord in her garden. She could remember the times where they would laugh and tickle each other or the times where they would sit and talked about things that were on their minds.

“Aunt Twilight? Are you okay?” Crystal asks.
Twilight blinked her eyes and smiled at Crystal. “Of course Crystal. I’m fine.” she said, sipping on her lemonade.

She watches as her nieces was enjoying herself, as she remained lost in thought. It's as if she was in a trance as she was slowly eating her cucumber sandwich.

“Aunt Twilight?” Flurry asks.

No response.

“Aunt Twilight?” Crystal asks.

Again no response.

“Aunt Twilight!” They said in unison.

Twilight jumped a little, startled. “Sorry girls, I guess I was lost in my own thoughts at the moment.” She said, her cheeks held a hint of pink. Clearly she was embarrassed by her action.

“Are you sure you're okay?” Flurry Heart questions, double checking.

Twilight nods. “I'm fine! Honestly, I'm just trying to figure out what this Friendship Mission is that I'm suppose to go on. I mean I'm not even sure where it's located at.” She explains.

“Well, hopefully you will figure it out soon.” Flurry said, her tone hopefully.

“Maybe…” Twilight mutters. She takes another bite of her sandwich.

***

The girls clean up the mess, as they fold the blanket and throw away their trash. “You girls head inside, I'll be inside in a few.” Twilight said.

For now, she just wanted to enjoy the sounds of nature to herself. Twilight closes her eyes, as the soft breeze blows through her mane. She could not shake the feeling that maybe there was no friendship problem at all and that maybe the should just head on home.

Twilight gets up and walks into the empire. She comes face to face with Cadence, who smiles at her. “Good morning, Twilight!” She beams.

Twilight gives her sister in law a sheepish smile. “Oh! Good morning Cadence. I was actually coming to tell you that I'm heading home early.” Twilight said.

Cadence looks at her sister in law, confused. “I thought you had a friendship problem that needed to be fixed here?” Cadence asks.

“I thought I did. Maybe it was just a false alarm.” Twilight assumed.

Cadence sighs. “Well I'm sorry to hear that your friendship mission was unsuccessful.” Cadence said.

“It's fine, really. I've been meaning to head back home anyways to take care of Harmonia.” Twilight said.

Twilight gives her sister in law a hug. “Alright. Well I will guess I will see you soon then.” Cadence said.

“Tell Shining that I have left and not to worry.” Twilight said.

Cadence nods her head, watching as Twilight leaves the castle.

***

The walk to the train station was fairly long. Twilight enjoyed the cool breeze that blew on her face. She sighed as she enjoyed the quietness of the peaceful that the Crystal Empire had to offer.

Twilight slowed her pacing, her cutie mark started to glow once again. She looks at her cutie mark, slightly confused. “Huh? The friendship problem must be near here.” She mutters. She watched, as her cutie mark glowed before her. It's like it was guiding her to her problem.

Twilight's cutie mark gives her a trail. She follows it.

After what felt like miles of traveling, Twilight's cutie mark stops glowing, leading her into a crystal forest.

“The forest? Why on Earth would my cutiemark send me here?!” Twilight asks confused.

She wonders around, looking for anypony who needed her help. “Hello? Is anypony here?” Twilight calls out, in the crystal clear forest.

Nopony answer. “Great! Just great! My cutiemark just had to lead me here!” Twilight mutters to herself. “Another false alarm…” she thought.

Twilight sighs, as she tried to find her way out of the forest, but with no luck she was lost. A cold chill, the same cold chill she felt in the hallway of the Crystal Empire swept through the forest grounds, sending chills down her spine.

“That's the same feeling I felt at the Empire.” Twilight thought to herself.

Twilight musters up all the bravery and courage she had. “Whoever is out here! Show yourself!” Twilight demands.

They didn't say a word, not even a sound. The only last sound that could be heard was Twilight's scream.

***

Harmonia looks out the window of Pinkie Pie's window. “Where's mommy?” She said, she gazes out her aunt's window, patiently waiting for her mother arrival.

It was going on 2:00 pm. “Maybe she's just running late.” Confetti suggested.

“I hope that's the only case.” Mutters Harmonia.

She looks down at the board game that the twins picked out. “It's your turn Harmonia.” Cotton Berry said, as he placed his piece on the board.

He give Harmonia the spinner. She flicks the spinner, landing on a 7.

She moves her piece on the board, quietly, but she couldn't stop thinking about where her mother could be.

***

Twilight illuminates her horn, she was casted into complete darkness. “Hello? Where am I? Is anypony here? Show yourself!” She demands, her voice echoing into the darkness.

She waits her pony-nappers response, but only received a wicked and cold laugher from them. Twilight turns around, startled by its mysterious eyes.

“At last we finally meet face to face….Twilight Sparkle.” He hisses.

“Come into the light so I can see who you are!” Twilight demands. The mysterious pony, steps out of the shadows and into the soft glow of Twilight's horn.

Twilight gasps at who she came face to face with.

It was no other than King Sombra.

Twilight's eyes widen in fear, her body went tense. “I thought you were-” Twilight said,, her tone quaked in fear of the stallion.

“What dead?” He lets out a sinister smirk. “No I am very much alive, my dear.” He held his hoof to Twilight's face.

Twilight swats his hoof away. “What do you want Sombra? And that's Princess Twilight Sparkle to you!” She hisses at the handsome dark stallion in response.

“Oh right, well excuse me if I wasn't invited to your coordination six years ago.” Sombra said, his voice leaking with sarcasm.

“But I must say you fit those wings fit you quite well.” He smirks at her.

Twilight looks at him, slightly confused by what he was going on about. “What are you talking about?” She wonders.

“I'm just saying, why be a princess when you can be a queen.” In his hoof, he manifests a silver crown with her element of Harmony embedded in the center of it.

“W-what?” Twilight was speechless.

“When you first arrived at the castle, you was just starting to learn about dark magic. Why you even used more than once. Looks like to me you even enjoyed it.” He smirks at her.

“Look, Sombra I'm not sure what game you are trying to play here but I'm not interested in your bidding!” Twilight snaps. “I swear to Celestia if you do not let me go!” She warns.

“Ah yes, Celestia. Isn't she the mare that took your husband away from you?” He asks, his tone nonchalant.

“That's not what I came here to talk about, Sombra. I'm going home! Besides your just a cliche bad guy in all the fantasy books I've ever seen or read.” Twilight snorts, her eyes narrowed.

“You're not even a real King! You are only a shadow.” Twilight sneers at him.

Sombra looks at Twilight, an unamused look on his face. “So I'm just a cliche bad guy in any fantasy book you ever read?” He asks, he tone slightly amusing.

Twilight narrows her eyes at him. “Then you don't mind if the fantasy story turns real!” Sombra's horn glows, revealing black, shadow like tendrils erupting from the ground. The black shadow tendrils wraps Twilight's wings, neck and hooves together.

Twilight gasps for air, as she chokes. Tears forming in her eyes. “You know we're not so different you and I.” He walks up to her, a smirk played on his lips. “But since you don't want to corporate then how does this sound for a perfect ending: the spunky young heroic princess gets killed by the big bad villain. End scene.” Sombra then cackles wickedly at Twilight, as he watches her struggle.

Twilight bares her teeth, her eyes giving the same effect Sombra's did. Sombra gasp at the sight before him. But he moved, quickly out of the way, before the black shadow tendrils could attack him.

He smirks, as he watched the young Alicorn become slightly dizzy by the dark magic she just performed. “What did I tell you princess? Not. So. Different.” He hisses.

Twilight shook her head regaining her vision. “Sombra, Let me go!” Twilight screams. “Or I’ll-” she warns.

“You’ll do what?” He hisses, his eyes narrowed. “You do realize that you can't leave until your friendship mission is solved right?” He asks, circling around her.

“I know that! So let me go so I can go see who needs my help!” Twilight demands.

“Why of course, princess, but your looking at your friendship problem.” He smirks.

Twilight eyes narrowed at him. “You and friendship, doesn't even belong in the same sentence.” She spats.

“Well you can't leave until I get what I want!” Sombra sneers.

Twilight was scared to ask or even wondering what it was that he even wanted from her. “And that is?” Twilight asks, her tone full of curiosity and worry.

“You.” He hisses in her ear. Twilight's eyes shrinks to the size of dimes.

What has this map possibly got her into?

Author's Note

Inspiration for Chapter 24: A Somber Meeting by Omny87

Chapter 25

Chapter 25

Starlight walked throughout the quiet hallways in Twilight’s castle. Emotions ran through her mind as she took each step: Anger, Sadness, Confusion and tiredness. Starlight needed to tell somepony about Celestia’s plan. She walked out into the castle balcony and saw Tempest, looking at the night sky, her mane blowing in the wind. Starlight smiled and walked towards Tempest.

“Back so soon?” Tempest asked, not turning around. Starlight giggled and stood beside her.

“Yeah. The wedding was a…. interesting event” Starlight said hesitantly.

“How so?” Tempest said.

“Well, I got thrown out.” Starlight said, wincing. Tempest turned to Starlight, confused.

“What? How? Why?”

“Well, I found out Celestia’s plan”

“What plan?!”

“Well, you know that Harmonia is going to be crowned princess in a few years right?”

“Yeah? What about it?”

“Well, after Harmonia is crowned Princess, Discord and Twilight were going to take a break from ruling then Princess Celestia was going to scheme a plan to make Discord her special somepony!”

Tempest fell silent and placed a hoof on Starlight’s shoulder. Both of them blushed. Tempest shook her head.

“We can’t tell anyone about this Starlight. Not even Twilight.” Tempest said, in a calm tone. Starlight nodded in agreement. Tempest smiled and began to walk back inside the castle.

“Where are you going?” Starlight asked.

“Going to put Harmonia to bed. Goodnight Starlight.” Tempest replied.

“Yeah. Goodnight Tempest.” Starlight said quietly. She put her hoof to her cheek; it was burning hot. Starlight couldn’t have feelings for Tempest… could she? And what about Trixie? Her mind went crazy when she saw her. It can’t be possible to fall for two ponies…… right?

***

Harmonia lays down, snug in her bed. “Goodnight Harmonia.” Said Tempest.

“Wait! Don't leave yet!” Said Harmonia.

“What is it now? I already read you a story and gave you a glass of water.” Said Tempest.

“Umm…. Could you sing me a lullaby?” Harmonia asks, her tone bashful.

Tempest rubs the back of her neck with her hoof. “Wouldn't you prefer if your mom sings to you?” Asks Tempest, her tone slightly bashful.

“Mommy's voice is nice and all, but I prefer somepony different from time to time. Plus she's still at The Crystal Empire with Uncle Shining and Aunt Cadence.” Harmonia said, her tone modest.

Tempest grimaced for a moment. “But I don't know any lullabies.” Said Tempest.

Harmonia giggles. “It's okay! You can always make something up.” She said.

Tempest thought for a moment. Harmonia gives Tempest her puppy dog eyes. “Please…” she whimpers, begging her mother's guard.

Tempest sighs, slightly annoyed but in all fairness who could say no to this adorable face. “Fine,” she mutters.

Harmonia beams excitingly. “But I'm going to need some help.” Tempest admits.

An idea came to Harmonia. “Aunt Starlight can help you!” Said Harmonia.

Harmonia snaps her paw and poof her Aunt Starlight into her room.

“Huh? What’s going on? Why am I here?” Starlight asked, Starlight was wearing a yellow robe with light pink slippers.

“Aunt Starlight! Can you and Aunt Tempest sing me a lullaby?” Harmonia whined. Starlight and Tempest looked at each other in confusion. Starlight giggled and made appear a little music box in the air.

“What song is this exactly?” Tempest mumbles to Starlight.

Starlight winks. “Just watch and listen Tempest” she whispers back.

The pastel lavender unicorn, begins to serenade the young filly with sweet words of a song that she could remember from her fillyhood. Tempest, watches and soon follows along.

Starlight grinned as Harmonia closed her eyes and fell asleep. Starlight kissed her niece on the forehead and motioned Tempest to follow her. Tempest quietly closed the door and turned to Starlight who was still holding the music box with her magic.

“Where did you learn that song, Starlight?” Tempest asked the pastel lavender unicorn.

“Well, When I was little and when I was feeling scared or lonely, my parents would always sing it to me. It always help calm me.” Starlight explains. “I haven’t sung it in ages, really. But it’s pretty neat, isn’t it?” Starlight replied, looking at the music box.

“Indeed, it is a beautiful song.” Mutters Tempest.

“Really? You really think so?” Starlight asked, looking at Tempest in wonder.

“Of course.” Said Tempest. Starlight blushed and cleared her throat.

“Have you heard from Twilight? She was suppose to come back today, but I haven't heard or even seen her at all.” Tempest asked, making the music box disappear out of sight.

“No I haven’t. She’s probably busy with her friendship mission or she’s probably coming home now! I can’t wait to tell her that we have successfully taken care of her daughter without doing anything wrong!” Starlight said, proudly.

“You do realize that Pinkie Pie had her for like two days right? I mean I had to go and pick her up from Sugar Cube Corner.” Tempest explains.

“Oops! Silly me! Anyways, I think I should get some sleep! Goodnight Tempest!” Starlight said, turning towards the hallway.

“Goodnight! Starlight!” Said Tempest, who walks in the other direction.

***

“Come on Harmonia, sweetie! Let mommy and Daddy help you with this next spell.” Twilight said.

In her vision, she saw Discord and Harmonia having fun, she smiled with tears in her eyes as she tried to reach out to them, but she could only speak to them.

“No! I don't want to be the next person to take your throne Mommy! I want to be like Daddy and spread chaos everywhere!” Harmonia gave her mother a wicked grin.

“What! You do realize, that you are the next heir to the throne, right?” Twilight questions her daughter.

“Yes, but I don't have to follow in your hoofsteps.” Harmonia sasses.

She then took in her husband and daughter expression. She noticed that their eyes resembled of a villian, one that she defeated long ago. Their eyes were both green, with red iris and a thin trail of a purple mist coming from the corners.

Sombra.

*

She felt groggy, as she tried opening her eyes, but her vision was blurry. She looked around slowly, realizing that she was in a cage of some sorts. When she opened her eyes, she was hallucinating a bit from the dark magic.

Everything felt so real.

Twilight snapped back into reality, looking at Sombra, with a shocked look on her face.

“So you're awake my queen…” Sombra said as he chuckled a little, he circled around the cage were Twilight was held, the cage was electrified with dark magic, dark electricity surging around the bars.

“Try shooting a beam at me...let's see how that works out…” He demands.

Twilight tries to shoot a beam at Sombra, but sadly backfired. The cage charged an electric shock towards Twilight, the ground pulsing the same current of electricity.

“You have no idea how much volts that will fry that smart brain of yours...but I would love to preserve that for my lovely queen…” He laughs as he appeared out of the shadows.

Twilight looks at him, her eyes narrowed. “Why are you doing this?” She asks.

Sombra looks at her, a sly look on his face. “I simply wanted to lure you...to make you my bride, so your childish friendship problem was the only way to lure you out of the light...and into the shadows...but now that I have you…” He chuckled.

“We can start making things comfortable for you…” He said as he opened the cage, but the tentacles wrapped Twilight on the neck and wings.

“You have no idea how much time it took me to..."Get back" here…” He laughed.

Twilight stayed silent, as Sombra continued.”Leave that gritty past behind you! And look to our wonderful future...your potential towards dark magic is spectacular! You can be my lovely queen, princess of friendship…” He said as he neared her.

“Why would I want anything to do with you?” Twilight spats.

“I want you to use Dark magic...I want to see how much you can handle!” He explains.

Twilight looks at him with distaste, remaining silent. “Don't be so delusional dear…” He coos.

The tentacle lift her chin up roughly, it forced her to look at Sombra. “After that battle in the Crystal Empire...I saw how much power you can weild, how much I can teach you!” He said as he neared his face on hers.

“Don't you want to learn more? Don't you want to feel what I feel! The knowledge, the beautiful taste of power and all of its Glory?” He said as he grinned at her.

Twilight remained silent. “Think of all the terrible things your ex-husband did to you…” He laughed and his eyes turned into it's hypnotic state, as he placed hallucinations on Twilight, changing her memories little by little, destroying her sanity.

Twilight eyes filled with tears at the visions that she was seeing.

“I feel great hatred in you…” He exhaled as he felt the anger in her, surging like no other. He then looked at Twilight, her eyes changing.

“Feel the change dear, you have much more to feel…” He laughed as memories of Harmonia turning into a chaotic wreck appeared.

“Can you feel...what I feel..?” He asks, grinning at her, his eyes emitting purple aura.

Twilight eyes glowed white resisting the urge.

She looks at Sombra, her eyes narrowed with hatred. "You are nothing but a shadow!" She sneers.

“A shadow who can crawl back into the dark corners of your mind...that's what I am…” He laughed as he stared at Twilight, trying to amp up the hatred in her.

“Don't resist...take it all in!” He said as he smiled at Twilight, his sharp teeth appeared.

“Open your eyes, and forget all the painful things that happened to you before...let me make you happy…” He laughed as his eyes glowed purple, becoming an aura of power.

Twilight heard the sound of a hard thud from Sombra.

She looks at him; her eyes narrowed.

"I will never be like you." She sneers at the dark stallion.

Sombra gets up slowly, his face half a shadow and half stallion, he looked at Twilight with half of his face trying to go back to its original state.

“Yet you resist, when I tried to show you how much power I could've gave you...and you throw it like trash...no matter, it will take time until you snap!” He said as the tentacles threw her back in her cage, the cage started it's electrical current once more.

Twilight eyes narrowed at him. “Ha! Like that will ever happen.” Twilight voice leaked with sarcasm.

“It will happen...just wait until I get your daughter…” He smirks.

“And your gonna regret that you said that, Princess…” He laughed as he circled her once more.

“And to think that, you and your daughter...have a special connection...let me sever that for you…” He looked at her straight in the eye.

Twilight gasped. “Don't you dare lay a hoof on my daughter!” She sneers at Sombra.

“That is the plan...and it's gonna happen soon as we speak…” He chuckled a little.

“Poor Harmonia, her mind and heart so pure...yet I can play with it as I please...I will show you how much hatred I can shove in her…” He neared Twilight, his face still regenerating from the blast that he took.

“Then, and only then, you will beg for mercy...and you will be my queen…” He smirked at Twilight.

“Now, rest that weak body of yours Princess...soon I will weaken it more with each moment that I torture you and your daughter...and I have little friends to tag along on this ride…” He laughed at her.

Twilight looks at the king, her eyes filled with tears.

Twilight breathing going raggedy. “Friends? ....What friends?” She asks, her tone cautious.

“The ones you exiled...along with me. Now we will have our revenge against you and your little ponies…” He said as he grabbed his Psycth, hitting the blade onto the bars.

“Soon, you will see familiar faces…” He laughed as his face was done regenerating.

Twilight's breath was still raggedy, but her voice filled with determination and confidence. “My friends and I will stop you.” She said.

“I'd like to see you try…” Sombra chuckles a little, as he slammed the blade onto the bars, making her scared.

He slammed the blade onto the Rocky ground, the blade stuck into it. “I'd really like to see you try…” he swears at her.

Twilight looks at him with her emotion was filled with nothing but hate for this shadow.

“It happened to me once, and it will not happen again…” He mutters, as he faded back into the shadows, the chamber suddenly turned silent.

Chapter 26

Chapter 26

Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Fluttershy all met up in Twilight’s castle, when they knocked on the door Starlight answers.

“Oh, hey guys, what brings you here?” She questions the girls, who each were holding gifts for the Princess of Friendship.

Starlight’s eyes landed on the five gifts before her. “And have gifts? But it’s not Twilight’s birthday, today.” she explains.

Rarity giggles. “Oh no darling we know it’s not Twilight’s birthday, we just wanted to check up on her, its been weeks since we haven’t talked to her, or-” Rarity said, trailing off a bit into her own thoughts.

“Hung out with her!” Rainbow Dash blurts out.

“Ate with her.” Said Applejack.

“Laughed with her!” Pinkie Pie said.

“Or even relaxed with her.” Came the voice of the timid and shy pegasus, Fluttershy.

The five of them explains to Starlight, the kids already made their way up the staircase to the door where their parents stood. Starlight thought for a moment, they did make excellent points.

Confetti Pop was the first child to speak up out of the five that were present. “Where is Aunt Twilight?” she asks.

“She’s out doing a friendship mission, but it’s been weeks since she hasn’t came back here, her cutiemark is still glowing on the map.” Starlight explains to the young filly.

Rarity gave a perplexed look. “That can’t be right, the Twilight I know would come back after a friendship mission on time!” Rarity said.

Applejack thought for a moment.

“How long did you say that she was gone for?” Asked Rainbow Dash.

“Four weeks, you guys wanna come in? It’s hot outside.” Starlight asks, as she offers hospitality to her friends. She opens the door wider to let the girls in, they all came in with their gifts and the kids followed behind their mothers.

“I have a bad feeling about this girls…” Mutters Fluttershy, as she let her worries for her friend worsen for a moment.

Applejack places her hoof on her friends shoulder. “Don’t be worrying too much, sugarcube, she’s probably handling a big friendship problem.” Applejack said, her tone assuring.

“But what friendship problem takes nearly four weeks?!” Shrieks Pinkie Pie.

“Probably the whole town has got a friendship problem?” Honey Crisp suggests.
“It’s probably just a big friendship problem, nothing to worry about.” Meadow Bliss said, his tone calm.

“Where was she last summoned to?” Applejack asks Starlight.

“The Crystal Empire, the Cutie Map led her there, come on I’ll show you.” Said Starlight. She opened the chamber door to the throne room, revealing the Cutie Map and Twilight’s cutie mark still glowing and hovering over the Crystal Empire.

“The Crystal Empire, do you think it might be Shining and Cadence?” Questions Rarity, who gazes at the map.

“Maybe, wait where’s Harmonia?” Fluttershy questions.

“Upstairs still sleeping.” Answers another voice from behind, it was no other than Tempest Shadow.

“Can we visit her?” Asks Cotton Berry.

“Yeah, I wanna see her and her shiny-” Ophelia said.

“Oh no you don’t.” Warns Meadow Bliss.

“Now, now children that’s enough, let’s take a look at this cutie map, maybe it will tell us about Twilight’s whereabouts.” Said Rarity.

Rainbow Dash flew into the throne room. “Yeah, let’s!”

***

“This is a long hallway for a castle.” Said Meadow Bliss.

“Yeah, easy to get lost around here…” Mutters Confetti Pop.

“I swear this castle looked alot smaller on the outside.” complains Prism.

“Do any of you know where her room is?” Honey Crisp asks, looking on both sides of her which was filled with nothing, but doors.

Ophelia stops at Harmonia's bedroom door. “If I recall it's this one.” She said. Ophelia knocks a little not wanting to disturb her friend.

“Harmonia darling, it's me Ophelia, may we come in?” Ophelia asks.

The five waited for her to answer.

“She's asleep dummy, maybe she left her door open!” Prism said.

“Now don't you be doing that Prism! It's rude to barge into somepony's room remember?” Honey Crisp warns.

“Like your the smart one…” mutters Cotton Berry.

“Here we go again…” mutters Meadow Bliss.

Ophelia knocked again, they heard a groan from the other side.

“Who's out there…” Harmonia's voice, muffled through the door.

“It's only us darling. “ Said Ophelia

“Come in.” Announces Harmonia.

They all came in, Harmonia rubbing her eyes and head. “What time is it…” she asks.

“It's already afternoon darling, you sleep very late do you?” Ophelia asks, slightly concerned for her friend.

Honey Crisp sat beside Harmonia giving her a warm hug. “How are you?” she asks, her tone buttery sweet and soft.

The other three laying their gifts on the side of the bed.

“Just gonna leave that their…” Prism laid his gift carefully on the ground, it was a Wonderbolt vase made out of gem rocks and golden linings on them. He owed the others after placing his gift.

“She's gonna love this.” Meadow Bliss placed a bouquet of flowers nearby the nightstand, wrapped around nice and neat.

“It's been awhile since we talked Harmonia, how are things?” Cotton Berry asks.

“Nothing much, I just miss my mom, do you guys know where is she?” Harmonia asks.

“Don't be worrying too much, she's fine.” Honey Crisp assures her friend, as she rubbed her friends back, Ophelia fixing Harmonia's messy mane.

“Relax Harmony, she's just doing a friendship problem.” Prism said, his tone relaxed.

“For about a week!” Confetti reminded Prism, Prism rolled his eyes playfully.

“Are you hungry darling? I have cookies, cranberry cookies!” Ophelia asks, holding up a plastic bag filled with cranberry cookies. Harmonia grabbed the cookie from Ophelia, she smiled at her as Ophelia smiled back.

“Thanks. You guys wanna head downstairs? And thanks for the gifts you all!” Harmonia said. She hugged Ophelia, the others made a group hug around them, Ophelia groaned.

“I think our moms are waiting, they said we're gonna find your mom.” Cotton Berry explains.

“The last I heard she was in the Crystal Empire with Aunt Cadence and Uncle Shining, and she told me she was going to be gone for two days....” Harmonia said, her voice filled with nervousness and worry.

“Well, you see she's not here for a week…”Ophelia replied to Harmonia, Harmonia's eyes widened with worry when she heard about it.

She suddenly stood up and ran down stairs.

“Nice work Ophelia, you just triggered another problem.” mutters Prism.

“Well what do you want me to say!?” snaps Ophelia.

They both argued for a bit while the other three followed Harmonia downstairs.

***

The mane 5 along with Starlight and Tempest planned a search party around the Cutie Map, Harmonia barged in, her eyes filled with tears.

“Where's mommy?” Harmonia asked, as she was ready to cry her heart out again. Starlight ran up to her and hugged her tightly.

“Sweetheart were doing the best we can to find Twilight okay? Relax we will find her.” Harmonia continues to hug Starlight tightly, sobbing a little.

“ I know, since there's 14 of us, we split up, the first group will go with 8 members, and the other with 6, that way we can search faster!” Honey Crisp beamed with the idea, everyone looked at her with the idea coming into play.

“Now I like your thinking!” Prism said, pumped up and ready to go.

“Splendid idea, only one question, where do we start searching?” Ophelia asked, standing next to Honey Crisp.

“Well the only place her cutiemark is hovering over is about the Crystal Empire” Rainbow Dash looked at the map, then nodded.

“Maybe you should start there?” Tempest said, as she was about to open the front door.

“Splendid! Let's get searching, we have a friend to find. Onward!” Rarity cheered with the others. All of the girls and kids left leaving Starlight and Harmonia behind.

“Shh, it's alright sweetie, we'll find your mom ok?” Starlight said, reassuring the young filly she was comforting.

“Yes…”Harmonia replied, wiping her tears. She lets out with determination, Harmonia and Starlight stood up and followed the rest to the Crystal Empire.

***

“Okay, first group of 8 should look at the castle and the market, second group of 6 shall search through town.” Rarity leaded the first group, Applejack leaded the second group to the Town.

The groups started splitting up, looking at their designated locations.

“I hope we find her soon, it might get dark out and you know what happens in the dark!” Pinkie Pie playfully said, nudging Rarity as she giggled a little.

“No time to be fussing around Pinkie, this is very serious.” Rarity said, her tone unamused and blunt.

Harmonia Followed the first group along with Starlight. “Where could mommy be?” Her tone still worried and concern.

“She might be at the Crystal Empire with Princess Cadence, still. Let's search there!” Starlight carried her niece on her back.

The first group ran towards the castle, nearing a large courtyard.

Starlight walked up to the staircase first, followed by the group, she knocked on the door. Only to be answered by cadence.

“Oh Starlight good morning! What brings you he-...” Cadence beamed, but lost it when she saw everyone behind Starlight, Starlight held a serious expression. Pinkie pie waved behind everyone, her smile giving the seriousness away.

“I see you brought guests, do you guys wanna come in?” Cadence opened the the door for the group to come in, offering hospitality.

“Not now princess, we have an emergency, you see your sister in law is missing for a week!” Starlight said, her tone filled with worry.

Cadence was shocked, Shining heard them and he opened the door completely.

“My sister is missing!?” Shining yelled, his voice echoed outside, everypony looked at him.

“ Yes! And we wanted to know if you know where she went after she visited you!” Starlight asked, interrogating the white unicorn in front of her.

“All we remember was she went back home to your place because she thought there was a friendship problem here!” Shining snapped, his worry for her sister started growing.

“What kind of friendship problem?” Starlight Questioned the pink Alicorn beside Shining

“Well she thought it was us fighting!” Cadence answered, her tone worried.

“But you guys never fought before, this is strange…” Starlight thought for a moment.

“We can't let up yet!” Pinkie Pie beamed at the whole group”

“She's right, maybe there's a sign to where she went next!” Rainbow Dash replied, she hovered waiting for the others to move on.

The 2 kids along with Harmonia searched for traces or signs of Twilights Presence, they saw a faint outline of hooves headed towards the outskirts of the crystal Empire where a giant gate stood, nearby was a forest Outlook and a train station.

“Maybe mommy went back home!” Harmonia said, she followed the traces and ran as fast as she could.

“Harmonia, wait!” Starlight followed the young filly, starlight gallops after Harmonia. Once she caught up to her she was slightly out of breath.

“..... Harmonia, you know better than to run off like that.” Starlight said, scolding her niece.

Harmonia said nothing, but to look at where her mother tracks stopped at. “She must be here...she has to be…” Harmonia frantically scouting the ground, she wipes her tears, still not giving up from looking for her mother, Harmonia gathered herself together, cooled down just like how her mother taught her.

“Are you feeling feeling better now sweetheart?” Starlight brushed the mane of her niece, calming her down.

“Yeah, I'm fine! She must be nearby, if the trails stopped here, then why is she not in Ponyville yet?” Harmonia questions her aunt, hugging her tightly.

“I think I know why…” Starlight's eyes widened, she points to the forest Outlook, still seeing hoofprints. Harmonia looks at her aunt confused.

“What's that place?” Harmonia looked at her aunt.

Cadence, Shining Armor and the others finally caught up to the two.

“Stay behind me sweetie.” Starlight warned her niece, she carries Harmonia on her back and she proceeds with the first group into the woods.

“Oh my, she went here? Why on Equestria would she go here!?” Rarity looked around her environment, seeing mud, and dirty leaves moving around.

“Whatever it is I'm not liking this…” Pinkie Pie placed her daughter and son behind her, then continued.

“ Shining, Cadence. Give your kids to the girls for awhile, we don't want them getting lost in there. Harmonia stay behind me.” Starlight instructed the two.
Cadence and Shining followed Starlight's instructions.

“Kids, I need you to wait here, me and daddy are gonna be back soon okay?” The two kids nodded as they stayed behind Rarity and Pinkie Pie.

“Just be careful, okay?” Flurry Heart said, her tone worried.

Flurry and Crystal hugged their mother, Harmonia looked at them, her face changed from determined to a little bit of sadness, but she shook the feeling off, she followed Starlight into the forest, Rarity and Cadence were side to side, Shining behind them with a spear levitated with his horn.

“We don't know what's in here so get ready for anything that comes our way!” Rarity preps herself for the worse to come.

“Don't worry...I got this…” A crow passes by, Shining's eyes widened, stabbing a tree trunk with his spear, The four looked at Shining, their eyes narrowed.

“I'm sorry...just tensed…” Shining gulped a little.

Fluttershy tensed up at the sound of the crow.

Light fog covered the ground. As leaves crunched under their hooves.

“This looks like the Everfree Forest, but way creepier!” Fluttershy hid behind Shining and Cadence, hugging his son at the same time.

“ No kidding, this is worse than the Everfree, it feels like Tartarus in here…” Rainbow Dash said, looking at the dead trees and the falling branches.

“This is not the lifestyle my Twilight would want!” Rarity kicked a few rocks out of the way, and wiped her hooves simultaneously “so much for fashion…” she said, looking at the mud on her hooves.

“You won't be needing fashion in this part of Equestria.” Cadence said slightly annoyed by the white unicorns whining.

“No kidding! So Starlight dear, would you mind telling us what's our current situation?” Rarity questions the unicorn in front of her.

“Well to be completed honest. I feel like we are in the middle of nowhere!” Starlight said looking around in her environment, Rarity's smile turned into big frown.

“Well at least we're all together right?” Pinkie Pie beamed slightly, not wanting to trigger an argument.

“I believe optimistic beliefs are not on our side today Pinkie…” Rarity said wiping a few mud sticks off of her hooves.

“Aw come on Rarity, will find a way back! Besides we have…” Pinkie looked at the ground, their tracks unseen

“Relax, I got this.” Cadence lights up her horn.

“That's more like it! Do you still see tracks?” Rarity questioned Cadence.

The others stopped, something suspicious about where Shining was walking into.

“This doesn't look right, why would Twilight stop here?” Starlight Questions Cadence confused on what's happening.

“I think I know why!” Cadence yells, looking at the scratch marks and parts of a tree split apart.

“Mommy…” Harmonia started crying a little, Starlight hugged her niece tightly.

“ Listen to me sweetie, your mommy is powerful princess okay? She knows how to escape this! But where did she go?” Starlight muttered the last bit to herself, but she kept looking around for the trail.

“What if Aunt Twilight got captured?” Confetti looks at everyone, they're faces confused.

The kids and mothers look at Confetti with a muted look.

“What!?” She whines.

“Confetti, that's stupid.” Prism states bluntly.

“But think about it! She was here right? HELLO THERE ARE MARKINGS EVERYWHERE!” She gestures everywhere around them.

She exhales, the fog moved away revealing so many markings of something coming out of the ground, scratch marks and more.

“She may be right about this guys…” Harmonia looked at the big scratch marks around them.

”But where was she taken to…” Starlight looked around and thought for a moment

“Didn't see that one coming!” Prism let's out, surprised by Confetti's theory.

“Judging by that big head of yours from last times fiasco at school, yeah you definitely didn't see that coming” Meadow Bliss made fun of Prism.

“And who's asking you!” Prism bluntly stated towards Meadow Bliss.

“No need to be hot headed.” Meadow Bliss state, meditating a little.

“Judging by these marks…” Starlight muttered.

She brought out a book from her saddle bag, opening some pages.

“These markings looked like the ones Sombra had…” Starlight looked at the picture, her eyes widened.

“But that's impossible, we stopped him before!” Shining looked around the area, a lot of thoughts around his mind.

Starlight showed him the markings then the pictures on the book, the two looked similar.

“Looks like you didn't stop him completely!” Starlight said to Shining, she placed the book back in her saddle bag.

“Well we have to do something!” Shining said, as he searched around for clues.

“We don't know where he even took her!” Cadence yelled at Shining, tears streaming down her eyes.

“We got our lead!” Starlight looked towards the north side.

She illuminates her horn, revealing drag tracks, the second group caught up.

“ We didn't find Twilight in the town, luckily we found you guys, and I bet she's right around here somewhere!” Applejack panted heavily slightly tired.

“Let's keep our hopes up...come on!” Starlight said filled with determination.

She pushes forward, along with everyone along with the kids.

***

Twilight was laying down on the cold hard ground, sniffling a bit as she remembers every bit of happy thought she had left, but she never lost hope, she sat up looking at the dimly lit up chamber, cold air brushing her fur.

“I do hope you feel comfortable in there...might I replace your cage with something, comfortable.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant.

The cage was replaced with dark crystals- sharp crystals- surrounding Twilight, not stabbing or hitting her with its sharpness, Twilight's eyes widened at the sight.

“Underneath the catacombs of the Crystal Empire, makes a good place for a "shadow" like me to rest...isn't that right Princess...and soon, every night I will hunt down every last pony around this Empire, making it mine…” Sombra explains, as he chuckled a little.

“I don't have to agree with you.” She scoffs. Her eyes narrowed at him. “I know my friends are probably looking for me by now.” Twilight’s tone was filled with hope and confidence.

“They'll meet the same fate as you Ms Sparkle, and they will not like the ending of it...as for your, daughter, you'll be begging for mercy I tell you…” He said as he neared her face.

“ Besides you couldn't even save your own relationship with that damn soft hearted tyrant…” He laughed.

Twilight eyes widen. “It wasn't even my fault.” she cries out.

“Let's not go to any rational explanations, it's your fault for not being the "strong mare" you really are, you could've done something horrible to that monstrosity of a princess who got your sweet soft hearted husband…” Sombra said, cackling.

“Think about it, what would happen if you did something horrible to your mentor… or ex mentor I should say. Then, things could've gone swiftly with you and Discord.Yet you chose to be the strong type of mare...which brings us to this problem you are face right now...all I wanted was to make you happy…” He grinned at her.

Sombra gave her a sincere smile. “So… let me make you happy…” He said, his tone soft.

Twilight scoffed. “I don't even see how somepony like you could make anypony happy.” She said, slightly unamused.

“Don't underestimate me Princess...I could turn your world upside down…” He said as the Crystal's changed color, signifying the feeling he has. The Crystal's changed to color red, revealing anger.

Twilight’s eyes widened, tears forming in her eyes as she felt powerless over Sombra’s presence, she sobbed as she remembered her friends in the Crystal cage she was now locked in.

“Don't worry my dear, things are about to go down hill real fast…” he laughed at Twilight as he left the chamber, leaving Twilight sobbing to herself.

Chapter 27

Chapter 27

Celestia races down the halls, looking for her sister and husband. “Discord, Luna!” she calls out, her tone was frantic and worried. After the letter that she had received, she couldn’t help but feel like all of this was her fault.

“Discord, Luna!” she calls out once again.

Luna bumps onto her sister filled with distress, she quickly stood up.

"What's happening Tia? Is there a problem? Is it your mane again?" She says, her tone exhausted and tired from running, she wipes the dust off of her hoofs.

Luna pants, trying to catch her breath, she then takes a moment to relax and look at her frantic sister.

"Now tell me what's wrong." She said as she finally relaxed, looking at her sister with concern.

Discord appeared beside Luna, his tone stressed and tired. "What is it this time Tia, I already made you flambé, what else would you want?" He said with his tone filled with stress.

"It's none of that, it's this." Celestia said, showing the letter to Luna and Discord.

Discord takes the letter from Celestia, Discord reads the first half of the note, Discords eyes were filled with tears, as he saw what was written on the letter.

"What is it? Is it something wrong?" Luna questioned Discord, she then turns her attention to Celestia, her eyes filled with tears, she then turns her attention to Discord.

"It's something worse than that..." He crumpled the note and he teleports out of the Castle, Luna's eyes widened at the sight. "Where is he off to this time!" She questions her sister.

Celestia teleports out as well, leaving Luna frustrated and angry, she opens the note and her eyes widened, she quickly goes to the throne room alerting the royal guards.

After a few hours, Celestia and Luna with Discord were already inside a royal carriage, were two Pegasus royal guards were prepared for take off, along with 3 escorts, The carriage flew to the Crystal Empire.

"I feel like it's my fault Luna, I should've never done this in the first place..." She said to her sister, Luna was surprised that Celestia only thought of this now, Luna snapped "And you realized that now!? After all of the setbacks you made on Twilight, taking her only husband away from her!? You are truly sick Tia!" She spat at her sister, foul words that stunned Celestia, Celestia felt guilty, she went silent, Discord watching the ground below wondering if she was ok.

The argument lasted over 20 minutes until they reached the Crystal Empire’s landing space. The royal carriage landed, the guards opened the doors as Luna rushed out being followed by the 3 Guards and Celestia and Discord, as they reached the castle doors.

They saw the Mane 5 with Spike and Sunset, Luna reached the group, but she was stunned by their faces when they looked upon Celestia.

"What are they doing here?" Applejack wonders, her tone full of distaste.

"Sadly, they are here to help." Mutters Luna.

"We didn't come here to play Guilt Trip, we came here to help you find Twilight." Explains Discord.

"Well I don't think we ask for your help." Sneers Rainbow Dash.

Harmonia peeks from behind Rarity, silently observing the situation.

"Mommy is gone because of you." She mumbles.

The Princesses happen to over hear the tiny draconequus.

Discord’s eyes widened at her daughter's words, he slowly came forward, kneeling down in front of Rarity, looking at her daughter. "I know it's daddy's fault sweetheart, and I'm terribly sorry...b-but right now...we have to focus on Twilight." He said to her daughter, wiping her tears away, he stood up looking at Rarity, her glare filled with distaste and anger.

Sunset entered the scene, slightly confused, Spike on the other hand was observing from above. "What's going on here? They're here to help us girls!" She looked at the mane 5, confused at the situation in front of her.

Pinkie Pie bounced between the ground, giggling. "Ooooo yeah, she's left in the dark about everything..... well.... You missed her being born." Pinkie Pie explains, holding up Harmonia. “And you missed Twilight and Discord wedding, which crashed and burned.” Pinkie mutters the last bit to herself.

“Miss. Pie!” Rarity snapped at Pinkie Pie, Pinkie pie's eyes widened and she placed Harmonia back to the ground, Rarity explains the current situation. "Well you see dear, Discord here left Twilight, and he is the reason for all of''THIS ``!" She snapped as she looked at Discord, Discord growled at the white unicorn.

Applejack went in front of Rarity, looking at Discord right in the eye "To be honest with y'all, I think it's best if we start searching, and stop fighting, because Twilight needs us, right Discord?" She looked at Discord right in the eyes, Discord calmed down and said "yes".

Sunset's eyes widened at Discord, she looked at him and she shook her head, not believing any of this to be true. "Twilight loved you...you sold her out to who!" She yelled at Discord, Discord pointed bluntly at Celestia, who was looking at the ground, tears streaming from her eyes.

Sunset was furious, she didn't say anything except these words "I can't believe you, my teacher, my mentor, and all of this, because of replaceable love, you should've known better..." She then turns away.

Sunset was ashamed of her mentor, that she was even capable of something like this.

"The longer we spend here arguing, the longer Twilight is still trapped with that monster." Explains Spike, who was hovering over the group.

"He's right." Mutters Shining.

"So please, let us help you." Begs Celestia.

Luna looks at her sister, she looks at the mane 5, a tear streaming down on Harmonia's face, Luna's expression was serious, she then ordered "Let's go save our princess of friendship..." She said as the whole group cheered, Discord and Celestia were silent.

The Royal Guards were now ahead of Shining and Tempest, with their weapons ready and their armour heavy, the kids followed their parents behind Cadence and Starlight, Sunset and Phoenix we're at the back of Spike, who was flying above them.

"Where was her last known location, Starlight?" She questions Starlight, who was beside Luna and Cadence.

"Her last known location was here to be exact." Starlight explains.

"But it lead us to the forest." Explains Honey Crisp.

"Then that's where we will go." Said Luna.

***

The group entered the forest, all unicorns illuminated their horns, Shining announced with great urgency "May I advise you that we will encounter a threat deeper in this forest, blast it with your light, and they will go away, do not stray from the group, that's an order to everyone!" He commands to the entire group, all unicorns and the others nodded.

Discord said in silence "I don't like the feeling that I sense in this woods, reminds me of that pony who is always on edge."

Pinkie Pie replied to Discord "Is it Sombra your talking about? His always the edgy villain isn't he?" Discord replied to the pink fluffy pony "And to think that he is the villain, who has my..." He clenched his paw, shaking away the anger.

Luna broke the conversation "Let's just keep moving Pinkie, no time to waste." She looked at Discord, and looked at the trail that they were following, they stopped at the place where they were attacked before.

Shining made the group stop, as the Royal guards were around inspecting the are for any signs or tracks.

Celestia looked at them, then questioned "What do we have here?"

"Stay close, you don't want to attract attention to these things..." Shining said to the guard that neared the dark corner of the forest, they heard a brustle from a nearby bush, the guards surrounded the group, readying their horns.

Cadence shields her daughter's, the mane 5 did the same, Harmonia hid behind Starlight. "Something bad is about to come out, and here it comes..." Discord said as he heard a shriek coming from his side, a sound of a demonic shriek was heard from the dark forest.

Celestia shields her sister, her horn glows brightly. "Sister I can handle myself!" Luna said to her sister. "Even if your mad at me my duty as your sister stands, I don't want you to get hurt!" She snapped at Luna, after all of the fighting.

"I'm not a filly anymore Tia you know that!" The shadow figure jumped out from the side of Cadence, roaring at her, Shining blasted the creature back from the shadows.

"What are those things?" Phoenix asks.

"I don't know, but whatever they are you stay behind me!" Sunset blasted a shadow that was headed for them, the guard picked up hoofprints that leads deeper into the forest. "Everyone head forward! Tempest give me a hoof, we need to give them time!" Shining ordered the group to head forward as Starlight picked up more hoofprints, Sunset and Starlight headed forward along with the group, leaving Spike with the royal guards and Tempest.

"Shining, you stay safe!" Cadence kissed Shining before she ran with the group, Shining nodded as he blasted another shadow back, the guards guarded the entrance to the deeper part of the forest fending off any shadows.

"Starlight, look more hoof prints, she must be close by!" Sunset said as the whole group followed. "Great, were nearing her!" Starlight said as she rushed.

***

Twilight lost count of how long she had been held captive here, but if she had to guess it would have been moons. She also hated to admit it, but Sombra hasn't been all that horrible to her. He has his days sure, but he wasn't that cruel.

Twilight looks around her chamber. Sombra emergences from the shadows.

Sombra circled around Twilight like he always does, Sombra wicked grin at Twilight, and turned his attention to her cage. "You truly are a keeper, for surviving this long in my sanctuary, yet you resist my love for you, how is that Ms Sparkle?" He questions Twilight with a wicked grin on his face.

Twilight looks at her capture. "Because I don't have feelings for you!" She narrows her eyes at him.

"But... I gave you everything you desire. What more do you want?" He questions Twilight.

"I want my freedom." She explains.

"And I gave that to you, but as for seeing your loving daughter?" He said with a wicked expression on Sombra's face, he neared Twilights face in-between the bars "You will never see Harmonia again, because your going to be, what I always dreamed about..." He laughed at Twilight as he backed off from the cage.

Twilight eyes widen with fear as tears aligned her eyes. Fear swept through her body like a tornado.

"Let's see how you like it, when hatred surges through you..." The Chambers lights opened up, revealing Crystal's aligned at the cage, dark magic surging from each crystal. "Soon your friends will fear you, your ex-husband will fear you, and soon, your daughter will fear you, with this magic I can make you into my own kin, my own wife..." He said, grinning wickedly.

He pauses for a moment thinking. "You know you should be grateful that I'm trying to make you happy! Such a shame that all this would've gone smoothly if you didn't resist..." He cackles at Twilight.

Twilight tried her best to blast the darkened crystals, but failed as her magic backfired on her.

Fear still swept through her. She felt like panicking, her eyes darted around the room, trying to find another way of escaping, but she was stuck, for the first time in forever she had no plan in mind.

"I want you to yell, cry in front of me, begging me to stop this from ever happening to you, because this will be the last time that you'll be seeing the light of day...My Queen..." He laughed as he illuminated the Crystal's, all of the electric current now strikes the cage, electrocuting Twilight painfully.

Twilight clenched her teeth, her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving.

Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

"These "friends" of yours will soon cower in fear, your daughter will even coward and fear you..." He laughed as he can imagine the daughter's torment, he felt the Intruders coming nearer, but he was calm.

"Everyone you cared and love, will succumb to your hate...and fear..." Sombra said, his voice sly and coy.

***

The mane 5 group followed the trail that lead to a solid door, the flooring were cobblestone bricks that were leading to the temple, everyone stopped running.

"What's the hold up, Twilight needs us!" Rainbow Dash said to Starlight, her tone was filled with worry.

Starlight tried to find how to open the door "Hang on, give me a moment!"

Discord looked behind them seeing a horde headed there way.

"WE DON'T HAVE A MOMENT!" Discord yells as he moved everyone aside, Discord snaps his fingers that opened the solid door, everyone went inside as Discord shut the door tight, The creatures were pounding the solid door.

Sunset painted, catching her breath, she then looks at the group, everyone was panting from exhaustion. "How is everypony?"

All of them replied "We're fine."

Starlight continued forward, following the prints that led to a staircase headed downstairs, the halls were slightly illuminated by dimly lit candles that lead them to alcoves and hallways. They slowly reach the chamber where they saw a cage in the middle, revealing a pony inside. Everyone held their position as Starlight went forward.

***

Twilight screams in pain, trying her best to hang on to what little sanity she had left. The children and Mane 5, along with Discord, Shining and the Princesses. They all witness the horrific scene being played before them.

“Twilight!” They shout in unison, worried for their friend.

“Mom!” Harmonia said, who was equally as worried.

Twilight couldn’t hear the sound of anypony shouting her name. She fell upon deaf ears, the only sound was the sound of a constant buzzing and electrical shock.

“Oh good you’re just in time for the show to begin.” Sombra said, gazing at the Mane 5 and the kids. The King of Shadows especially had his eyes on Harmonia as a wicked and satisfied look was displayed on his face towards her.

He turned his attention back to Twilight, who was still wincing in pain. She let out a blood-curdling scream.

“Why if it isn’t my old two foes Celestia and Luna. Come to witness your greatest fear?” Sombra asked, smirking at the two.

“Let her go Sombra! She doesn’t deserve this torture.” Celestia said, her tone rather determined.

“Oh yeah, then why did you two drive her to the brink of her own insanity and down fall in the first place?” Sombra questioned.

Celestia said nothing, but gave a cold stare at her foe. However, he was right about one thing, if none of this happen maybe they wouldn’t be where they are now.

Starlight, stepped through looking at King Sombra with hatred in her eyes, her horn charged as well.

“You’re going to give us Twilight back, rather you like it or not. I’m not sure why you even need Twilight in the first place or what twisted and sick game you are playing, but it stops now!” Starlight yelled, her tone pissed.

“I wouldn’t be so sure.” Sombra said, smirking at her.

“Let my sister go!” Shining said, his eyes narrowed at Sombra as his sword was drawn.

“Oh I would not be so quick to pull that sword, Prince.” Sombra warns.

Shining moves his eyes from him to his sister. “Just hang in there Twily.” Shining said.

“Gah! I’m trying!” Twilight said, her teeth bared, as her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving. Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

Her head throbs, worse than it ever has before. She couldn't speak, being shocked really took the power of her words and her own process of thinking.

She screamed out in pain. Everything ached on her and through her with her head bothering her the most.

Twilight lays down, her body weak, she cried out for her friends, her eyes changing slowly like Sombra's.

"Please, STOP THIS!" Twilight pleads, but Sombra didn't listen, Twilight stood up automatically, her body changing, her fur changing and her eyes changing.

"Now, you'll feel what I feel..." Sombra laughs at Twilight as she tried to resist the change.

Twilight gasped for air, as tears streamed down her face. “N-no….” she whimpers, trying to resist for as long as she needed to.

"Are you going to give up now Twilight Sparkle, or should I amp the pain even more..." He laughed as he turned up the currency of the electricity that's hitting the cage.

However, Twilight’s teeth beard and were slowly begin to sharpen. As her head continued to pound, the emotions that she never wished to feel she actually felt: hate and fear as they slowly crept into her mind.

“This is your last warning.” Starlight threatens, her horn charged with power.

Sombra scoffed. “And what is an incompetent, power hungry unicorn going to do exactly? Twilight only choose you because she felt sorry for you. She never wanted to be your friend in the first place.” Sombra said, smirking at Starlight.

Starlight’s eyes widen, without thinking she released a large burst of energy at Sombra, her aura enveloped him into nothing, but smoke and shadow-like wisps.

The kids looked at Starlight in shock. “Cadence, hurry and flip that switch off, we need to get Twilight out of here.” Starlight said, her tone demanding.

Cadence used her magic to flip the lever of the cage to let Twilight out. The anti-electromagnetic energy ceased as the bars raised.

The girls and her family ran over to Twilight, their expressions worried, but some slightly relieved that they got to her in time.

Twilight, with caution steps out of her crystallized prison.

She looks at her family and friends, unsure of what to say. I mean besides the fact that Starlight just obliterated Sombra into nothingness.

“Twilight? Are you alright?” Shining asked, worried for his sister.

“Yeah I’m fi-Fine.” Twilight managed to muster up, before she felt lightheaded and felt her body being pulled down.

“Twilight?” Shining said, worried.

“Mom?” Harmonia said, tears brimming her eyes.

“She must have fainted from the aftershock of what happened.” Starlight said, still examining Twilight’s conscious state.

“Well we can’t leave her here. Come on let all go home.” Tempest said.

***

Twilight walks through the castle hallways, a determined look in her eyes.

A look of revenge and vila thoughts plagued her mind.

Twilight tossed and turned in her sleep. Where was Luna when you needed her?

Twilight jerked out of her sleep, beads of sweat poured down her face. She looked around her surroundings as the bright light of Celestia’s sun streamed through her curtains.

She didn’t recall much of what happened the other night, besides witnessing the fact that Starlight obliterated Sombra before passing out.

Sombra.

Wherever he was, she just hope he wasn’t too badly hurt.

Wait… why was she even thinking about him? Sombra put her through hell for months! Now that she was saved wasn’t she glad to be home?

“.... what is wrong with me?” Twilight thought.

Author's Note

Rewritten/Edited: November 8, 2019

Chapter 28

Chapter 28: Confrontation

5 months later...

“Good morning, Twilight!” Starlight said, her tone cheerful.

“Whoa! Did you get any sleep last night?” Starlight asked, taking in Twilight ragged appearance.

“I’m fine, Starlight. It was just a bad dream I had last night. That somehow keep reoccurring.” Twilight mutters.

“Maybe you should see Princess Luna about this. She can help.” Starlight suggested.

“I said I’m fine.” Twilight said, gritting her teeth.

For a quick second, Starlight could have sworn she saw something flash in Twilight’s eyes. However, she decided that maybe it was just a trick of the lighting in the room.

“Okay, no need to get defensive.” Starlight mutters.

Twilight huffs. “Sorry,” she mutters. “I just didn’t get much sleep once again last night that’s all.”

Starlight thinks for a moment. “I’m sure Zecora has a sleep remedy to help. Maybe you should go and see her.” She suggested.

“Maybe you're right, Starlight.” Twilight said.

“Just looking out for you is all.” Starlight said, her tone chipper.

***

The air in the Everfree forest felt more dense than usual and oddly foggy.

A light mist covered the forest ground, but as Twilight was making her way to Zecora’s hut. She couldn’t help but think what her dream could even mean.

Five months, five months since she has been saved. Five months since Sombra has been destroyed.

The atmosphere felt heavy and moist and for some strange reason Twilight felt as if somepony has been watching her. She scanned the environment around her before looking down at the misty ground at her hooves.

Twilight noticed that her shadow on the forest ground was visible.

Visible? But the sun wasn’t streaming through the forest or even out for that matter to even cast any shadows.

A soft, but chilling breeze swept through the air, making the Everfree even creepier than it usually is.

“Who’s there?” Twilight calls out.

“Missing somepony already, Dear?” A familiar voice asked.

That voice. The one that has been torturing her for months on in.

“Sombra?” Twilight called out.

Sombra appeared out of her shadow. He looks at her, a sly look on his face.

“The one and only.” He said, smirking at her.

“Why are you here?” Twilight asked, her tone icier than she intended to be.

“Why I came back for you of course.” Sombra said.

“Five months. I thought Starlight destroyed you for five straight months” Twilight said.

“Like I’d let some wanna be Twilight Sparkle destroy the King of Shadows.” Sombra scoff.

“Besides I know you still loathe those who wronged you and you want you’re revenge on them. Do you not?” Sombra asked.

Twilight said nothing, but stared at him. Her eyes slightly narrowed.

“You don’t have to say anything. I can see it in your eyes you know. You can tell a lot of how somepony feels from their eyes. Call it a hidden emotion.” Sombra said.

Twilight rolled her eyes. “I have been trying to accept the terms that Celestia and Discord will forever be together. Nothing will ever change that.” She mutters.

“And I have come to terms that you can change that. I have been buying time, waiting for the right moment to strike again and now that you’re alone I- I mean we- can take our revenge on those who have wronged us. I know you want to.” Sombra smirks.

Twilight backs up, unsure of where this was going.

“We can do this the easy way or the hard way.” Sombra said.

Twilight furrowed her eyebrows, opening her mouth about to speak.

“Which if you ask me. You don’t have much of a choice.” Sombra said, giving her a wicked grin.

***

Harmonia happily made her way down the hallway, everything was perfect and back to normal. Twilight promised her that she will spend the day today practicing magic and her upcoming coordination.

Harmonia made her way to her mother’s library.

“Hey mom! Did you forget we have-” Harmonia said, but stopped short when she realized Twilight wasn’t there.

“Huh?” Harmonia scanned the room. She noticed her aunt was organizing some of Twilight’s books.

“Hey Aunt Starlight. Have you seen mom?” Harmonia asked.

“She went to see Zecora. However, that was hours ago. She should have been back by now.” Starlight said.

“You don’t think that-” Harmonia started.

“That Sombra is back? Sweetie, I highly doubt that. Besides it’s been five months since your mom has been back.” Starlight said, ruffling her niece’s mane.

***

Bright light eliminated the grounds where both Sombra and Twilight stood, or well where Twilight was caged and Sombra stood.

“Where am I?” Twilight asked, fear laced in her voice.

Then she remembered she is back where she was a month ago. Back in her hell hole of a prison.

“Why? Doesn’t this scene look awfully familiar?” Sombra smirks.

“Let me go!” Twilight shouts, blasting at the black crystals only for them to retract back at her.

“Not until I get what I want and what you deserve.” Sombra smirks.

“Besides my plan was almost completed before that Glimmer Glamour messed evaporated me.” Sombra smears.

“It’s Starlight Glimmer.” Twilight corrects.

“Whatever! Now that there are no interruptions I can finally fulfill my desire. What I’ve always wanted you to be: My Queen.” Sombra smirks.

“Please hurry girls.” Twilight thought.

***

Several weeks later….

Sombra paces back and forth in the halls, his expression slightly annoyed and his look angry. "What to do when a mare is so hard to convince..."

He slammed the wall, revealing cracks, his anger almost getting the best of him, he then halts and realizes a plan. "I know, I'll make her my queen, my wife...I will give her everything she wants..." Sombra said, walking down the hall headed for Twilight’s cage with a smug look on his face. "Twilight Sparkle, are you feeling comfortable in there?" Sombra said with his tone in sarcasm.

Twilight looked at him. "Considering that I've been here for several weeks, not really." She mutters, her tone leaking sarcasm.

"Let me fix that for you, I'm planning on settling down with a mare, and your the perfect one my eyes laid on." He said, his tone leaking sarcasm, he magically made a black rose appear beside Twilight.

"Consider this as a ticket to your freedom, but the cost is, your gonna have to marry me, if you don't there will be consequences..." Sombra giggled a little, he looked into Twilight's eyes, giving her a death stare.

"I'm not even in love with you, what makes you think I'm going to marry you?" Twilight spats at the tyrant.

"One more time, you will marry me..." Sombra said getting closer, the rose getting crumpled a little, his aura turning red. "You will take my hoof in marriage, so I can make you happy...unlike that spineless draconequus who left you just for another..." Sombra said, spitting out the words of the past in front of Twilight, he smirked at her.

"Would you still resist, because resisting is futile Miss Sparkle and I very much kill anyone who resists...but as an exception for you I will give you a choice..." He said smiling at her with a deadly look on his face.

Twilight eyes widen, struck with fear, but her face harden to not let Sombra notice. "..... No." She said, her voice stern.

"It's your choice..." Sombra said putting the bars down to the cobblestone ground, the rose disappeared, only to be replaced by a scythe, the blade shined within the dimly lit lights.

"I'm gonna have to force you to marry me won't I?" He slammed the blade to ground as it dug in deep, he moved closer to Twilight, the blade making loud scratching noises. "Don’t worry, I am not gonna kill you dear I'm just here, lighten things up..." He sliced the chains that were on Twilight's legs. "Free as a horse..." He chuckled to himself. "Like I said, I simply want to lighten things up a bit..." His tone nonchalant and blunt.

Twilight looks at him, surprise. "W-what?" She asked, slightly baffled by his actions.

He smiled at Twilight, until he brought up the blade to her neck slowly, his smile turned into nothing but disappointed look. "I simply told you, you have choices, it's either you face the consequences or you marry, yet you took the easy way out..."

He made a pillar of crystal rise up behind her, and he pushed her to it, pinning her down a little. "You had two choices, and I'm gonna ask you again...will you marry me..."

He looked into Twilight's eyes, feeling a little guilty yet anger filled in him.

Twilight eyes widen at the blade beside Sombra. "Y-you can't force me to marry you when I don't even have feelings for you in return." Twilight said, her gaze hardening.

Sombra gritted his teeth and he yelled, he slammed the blade beside Twilight's ear, not hitting it, instead he hits the crystal. "You, you of all mares are hard to convince!"

He cast a magic of levitation on Twilight, and threw her in the middle of the cage, the cage suddenly rose up and trapped her once more.

"Do you even want to see your daughter again?" He slammed the blade on the Cage's bars, making a spark.

Twilight ran to the edge of the cage. "I-I do, but-" she tried to explain, but Sombra cut her off.

He looked into Twilight's eyes, Sombra felt something he never felt before, little hints of guilt hits him a little, Sombra moved the blade out slowly, and he made the scythe disappear.

"In due time Twilight, in due time." He looked at Twilight, a slightly annoyed look on his face emerged.

"Get some rest, you'll need for your life to bloom..." He looked at Twilight, a smile carving up on his face. He left the chamber, leaving Twilight to herself.

***

15 hours later…
Twilight remains silent.

Sombra sighs gently knocking on the door. “Come on, Twilight. I didn’t mean to scream at you earlier. Come on, honey.” Sombra said, pleading.

Once Twilight didn’t answer the door, he barged in only to witness a horrific scene before him.

She was laying on the bed lifeless.

“Twilight... no...” he hung his head low, before hearing the sound of one of his Crystal maid slaves call out her name.

He used a spell and quickly vanished from the room, back in his room to do some overthinking, processing what had happen.

“Princess, I brought you a snack! You’re highness? Twilight?” The Crystal maid calls out.

She the screams at the sight before her.

Twilight opened her eyes, giving the crystal maid a smirk and a wink. “Shh…” she whispers.

The Crystal maid looks at Twilight with a shocking expression on her face. No words would come out of her mouth, for she was speechless.

“Please don’t tell Sombra!” Twilight begs.

“I- If you were any type of friend or know something about friendship then please…” Twilight begs with tears in her eyes, her voice cracking.

The Crystal maid- who still had a stunned look displayed on her face- slowly nodded. She turns to leave to give the “saddened” news to the King.

Twilight breathes a sigh of relief. “Okay… okay,” she breaths. “If I’m going to escape this place I need a plan.” She mutters.

Twilight thought for a moment, looking around the room she was kept in. “Okay! I got it, but I’m going to have to wait till tonight for it to work.”

***

“I am so sorry my King, but the future Queen is-“ The Crystal maid, stated.

“Dead? Yes I know.” Sombra said, gazing out his window.

“I am terribly sorry.” The Crystal maid said, bowing her head.

Sombra pauses for a moment, unable to know what to say. “.... Just leave now.” Sombra said, his voice hardened.

***

Twilight looks at the clock it was 10:30 p.m. at this hour she was sure Sombra would be in his royal bedchamber asleep at this hour. Luckily she was free to use her magic and her horn wasn’t nullified with dark crystals, but the room she was in did penetrate her from doing anything drastic mostly widely known spells that she knew Sombra known she could have used to attack him with.

So she had to rely on her brain more than her magic at the bare minimum moment. Twilight scans the room looking for a possible bare route to escape. She knew she couldn’t go out the front door, the guards were standing there, however if she was “dead” wouldn’t they have left their posts by now?

Twilight crept towards her door, peering over to realize that the guards were not at their posts, assuming that she was indeed dead.

She uses a tad bit of her magic to open the door, but it wouldn’t let her open it. Twilight assumed Sombra casted it using dark magic.

As much as it made her head hurt and extremely dizzy, she had to get out of there! Twilight ignites her magic, her calming magenta magic transformed into black magic, her horn glistening with an aura of green and black magic.

She cast her spell that Sombra used to put on the door, after five minutes she heard a click.

Twilight shook the grogginess feeling from her, and went back to focusing on her escape plan.

From the outside of Twilight’s room, the hallway eerily quiet too quiet. She began walking down the damping hallway, its atmosphere strongly felt like a mix of her anxiety going up and that something bad was going to happen.

Twilight heard voices coming from the west side of the hallway.

Sombra’s guards.

Twilight took it as her chance to hide, as she quickly slips into the darkest hallway in the castle, hoping that she will blend into the dark.

She listened while the guards were by passing her.

“I can’t believe the queen is dead.” One of the guards said.

“You and me both bud. Besides, what would her family think? Heartbroken I assume?” The other one said.

“Well duh? Who’s family wouldn’t be heartbroken about the news that one of their most beloved members of their family is dead. Besides the Queen- er well Princess of Friendship- was beloved by many.” The first guard said.

“Such a sad day for Equestria’s history.” Mumbles the second guard.

Twilight waits until they pass to get a move on, once their hoofsteps faded, she removed herself from the shadows, and quickly made her way out of the castle.

From the outside of the castle she knew she was miles away from home. She didn’t even know here even was!

“Okay, the train station closes at 11:59 pm. I think I can make it there if I teleport there.” Twilight mutters to herself, she scans her surroundings.

Thick lushes, but somewhat dead trees surrounded her captives hideout, but before this it was crystal clear forest trees like the ones she seen outside of the Crystal Empire. Was what she saw at the Empire an illusion of some sorts?

Twilight didn’t have time to dwell on that question she had to get out of here now!

Ignite her horn, she teleported away.

***

Sombra’s bedroom chamber door opened with a loud slam, rattling the windows.

“What the? What is the meaning of all of this?” Sombra asked, half pissed and half awake.

“My king! The princess has escaped!” Said one of the guards.

“What?! But how! I thought she was dead!” Sombra asked, his tone was filled with disbelief and anger.

“After everything I’ve given her this is how she repays me!” He growls.

“Do you need us to find her?” Asked one of the guards.

“No need to! I’ll handle it myself.” He sneers.

***

Twilight pulls out her pocket watch- 11:50 pm. She made it just in time! She gallops to the Crystal Empire’s train station.

“One ticket to Ponyville!” She said, her tone slightly urgent.

“That will be five bits.” Said the ticket pony.

Twilight quickly gave the mare five bits, waiting for the train to arrive. The train pulls into the station, as Twilight boards it she gave the conductor the exact location she needed to be at.

“To Ponyville please.” She said, before taking her seat.

At this hour, of course she would be the only one on the train station. It was pretty late after all, but she knew she had to get the hell away from him.

Twilight watches as the small crystal townhouses that made up half of the Crystal Empire bypassed from view. She relaxed as she set her scrambled mind at ease.

“Finally! I can’t wait to see Harmonia. I know she must be worried sick.” She thought, watching as the train was now entering the Frozen North- or the Ethers- as Rarity once called them.

Snow gently blanketed the ground, but made the train and tracks easier to get through. However, the train came to a screeching halt.

“What?” Twilight asked, utterly confused by why the train stopped in the middle of a blizzard like snow storm.

Maybe there was a ton of snow on the tracks? Or maybe an animal was blocking the path, however no animal would probably dare be out in this mess of a season.

Twilight looks out the window, and notices that nothing was in their path. She gets up from her seat, and walks up to the conductor.

“Excuse me? Why did we stop?” Twilight asked.

The conductor turns around, but instead of being met with friendly crystallized eyes that would give her an answer. She was met with sickly lime green ones that look like he was in a trans.

Twilight gasped. “We are sorry that you are experiencing technical difficulties- please stand by.” The conductor said, his voice was also laced with creepy and eeriness that Twilight did not enjoy.

Twilight could hear slow claps from behind her, which startled her to the core. “Did you really believe you could escape me?” Said the voice.

Twilight turned around and gasped.

Sombra.

“However, I must give credit where credit is due your escape plan was very… admirable.” He said, sneering.

Twilight swallowed a lump that she has been holding in her throat. “How did you find me?” Twilight croaks.

“My dear, I always have somepony watching over you to make sure you don’t do anything foolish. Faking your own death however, I’ll admit that surprised me.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant.

He chuckles, his tone dark. “..... however, that horn of yours I should have nullified sooner.” Sombra said, with that he fires a blast at her.

Twilight dodges it. “.... so you brainwashed the conductor and the ticket master because you knew what I was planning?!” Twilight yells, firing a blast at Sombra.

“You should know by now I will always be one step ahead of you Twilight! Besides your not the only one to always have an upper hoof in plans you know.” He said, his teeth bared.

“As for the conductor yes, the ticket master was just a small bonus.” He sneers.

Sombra stalks towards her, his blood red crimson horn aglow. Twilight looks above her, noticing spare luggage cases.

Twilight smirks. “Well since you seem to always know what my next move is and always seem to be two hoovesteps ahead of me then I guess you also expected this!”

Without warning, Twilight unlatched all of the cargo of luggage and watches as they toppled on top of Sombra.

Twilight then took it as her cue to leave. She races through the empty train carts as the windows were too small for her to squeeze through unlike the train back in Ponyville.

Sombra chases after Twilight- unaware of the attire he had on.

Twilight looks for a way off the train, which if they were three carts down they would already be outside of the train and into the snow-covered banks of the Frozen North.

“This is the end of the line for you Princess!” He sneers, his horn ignited.

“You know that dress is beautiful on you! I believe Rarity would even approve! Black really is your color!” Twilight lightly giggles, her tone leaking fake happiness, sass and sarcasm into one.

“Enough games!” He growls, firing a beam at her.

But Twilight throws a protection spell around her.

“You think that measly spell will protect you? Don’t you remember the contract you signed?” Sombra asked.

“You know… I might be able to take you more seriously if you didn’t wear that dress.” Twilight said, her tone nonchalant.

“.... like seriously the dress is really distracting me from trying to focus on what your saying.” Twilight said, lightly giggling.

Sombra growls. “So you would also find it rather funny that we both broke the end of our deal and I can just mess with your daughter as I please…. what was her name again? Harmonia right?” Sombra asked.

Twilight growls. “Lay a hoof on my daughter and you're dead mar- I mean stallion!” Twilight sneers.

She fires a beam at Sombra, knocking him to the ground. “I must admit you are a lot stronger than we last encountered.” He admits.

“Hard work pays off. At least I didn’t kill and enslave ponies to get my crown!” Twilight sneers.

Sombra shoots a beam at Twilight, knocking her backwards he then lunges after her, but she quickly rolls over to the side.

He looks up at her. “I will never be yours Sombra.” She sneers.

“You sure about that Princess?” He asked, his eyes glowing.

He then grabs Harmonia. “You wouldn’t do it for your own daughter?” He asks.

“Mommy please don’t do this.” Harmonia whimpers.

“Harmonia? But how did you?” Twilight asked.

“Bye mommy.” Harmonia said, her tone creepily child like.

Without warning Sombra created the biggest blast he could muster, sending Twilight flying three doors down the train station- all the way to the end of the line.

The bitter cold, nips at her fur and wings. Her teeth chattering from the cold. “Seems like the love and bond you have with your daughter is your biggest weakness!” Sombra growls, a satisfying grin displayed showing his sharp fangs.

His horn glowed once more. “Now about that horn of yours.” He soothes, but before he could cast the spell, Twilight used her hind legs to buck Sombra off of her.

“Why you little-” He lunged after Twilight once more flipping them both over the railing and into the snowy banks of the Frozen North.

The wind whilst and makes both of their manes and tails flow through the nippy, cold breeze.

Twilight was especially cold, considering that she didn’t have any type of clothing to cover her.

“I hope you know that your wings will freeze over in a matter of seconds considering that this is the Frozen North.” Sombra said.

“I’m well aware.” Twilight bit back. She shivers from the cold, trying to concentrate on the all out war between the two.

The two began to fire back and forth, firing back at one another.

“I must admit I haven’t had a worthy opponent like you in years, however I am also well aware that any tricks you pull, I know better!” Sombra said.

“Brag worthy much?” Twilight asked, her tone annoyed.

Sombra smirks, firing a blast at Twilight. Twilight flew upwards, dogging his spell. She then lowers her horn firing a blast at Sombra, which sent him under a mountain pile of snow- enough snow to make a pony freeze to death.

And like Sombra said- Twilight wings did freeze from the bitter cold.

“M- my wings!” Twilight wails, the snow frostbit her wings, causing her to spiral downward, but she still had her magic to rely on. She grabs ahold of herself, before hitting the snow covered ground.

She places herself upright, staring at the snow covered bank Sombra was held under. The snow started to glow crimson red, Twilight held up her shield ready before the impact from the blast of snow was on her.

Sombra- who somehow managed to stay alive in that mess- blasts the snow away, causing it to blow towards Twilight. The high winds from his clearing of snow extremely unbearable.

Sombra looks at Twilight. “Didn’t I tell you Princess? You can’t get rid of me that easily.” He sneered.

Sombra took into notice that Twilight’s wings were indeed- just how he predicted- frozen stiff. “Now this just got a lot more even.” He sneers.

“Unicorn against Unicorn.” He said.

“I’m still an alicorn! Just because my wings are frozen doesn’t mean I can still kick your flank.” Twilight said, her teeth bared.

“Admirable fighter.” He muses.

“Let’s see if you can handle this!” Sombra fires a blast at her.

Twilight closed her eyes, but then opened them.

At first she didn’t think nothing happened- but she heard the sound of soft snow being crunched underneath by the sound of hoof steps.

She turned around, Celestia.

“Oh Twilight, did you really think Discord was ever really in love with you? He just used you! Having a child with him was just a bonus.” Celestia said.

“W… What? No! You’re lying!” Twilight shouts, tears welled in her eyes.

“Am I really? Everything else that’s happened so far seem to be true. So why should this be any different? You know Harmonia should just start calling me mother instead of you. After all Harmonia is staying by herself away from her mother who also left her.” Celestia smirks at her.

“I did not leave my daughter.” Twilight sneers. Her eyes begin to turn the exact shade of Sombra. Watching as her nightmare unfolded before her.

Harmonia then looks at Celestia a tiny grin on her face. “Mommy!” Harmonia said, as she hugs Celestia hoof. Harmonia gave a smile at Celestia and then at Twilight.

“That is not your mother Harmonia! I am.” Twilight said her voice stern.

“Why can’t she be my mother Twilight? She is half the mother you will ever be.” Harmonia sneers.

Twilight’s eyes widen in rage. Blurred by tears and fueled by anger, she ignites her horn. “You two are not real!” She bares her teeth, ready to release her spell.

“Are we though?” Taunts Harmonia.

“Gahhh!” Twilight then released her spell causing the illusions of Sombra spell to vanish.

Twilight breathing went ragged, as she eyes Sombra. “I can sense so much hate in you Twilight.” He said.

Twilight said nothing, she looks at the King in disgust. “.... yeah towards you.” She said, her voice stern.

“Are you sure about that?” Sombra smirks, showing his fangs.

Twilight was beginning to feel hot, even though here in the Frozen North it was at least -5 degrees out. She was beginning to feel funny, really funny. Her vision started to blur before her and her head started to swim. That spell must have taken a lot out of than she intentionally thought. Her knees felt weak as they buckled out from under her.

Sombra smirks at Twilight who was at her weakest state. He stands over her, giving a triumphant smirk. “Is my Queen not feeling too well?” He soothes.

Twilight gives him one final glare, as her vision of him blurs before her. She tried the strength to wake up, but her body said otherwise before passing out.

Sombra towers over her body, as the cold nips at her fur. He lifts her chin up with his hoof. Twilight reminded unconscious.

“Well I can’t just leave her out here to die. She is my future Queen after all.” Sombra mutters to himself, gazing at her appearance.

“But first…” Sombra thought, he noticed her horn had yet to be nullified. Now would be as good as ever to cast that spell onto her horn. And he did, as he watched tiny crystals form on her horn. He then lifts her up with his magic onto his back.

He looks onward out into the blizzard they were far beyond the train. And the train was too far for him to try to teleport both of them in considering that he had one passed out on his back. “Looks like we are going back to the train by hoof.” He mutters to himself.

Sombra begins galloping through the blizzard, the cold hardly bothering him. “Why did we have to fight this far out?” He wonders.

He sighs as he continues onward, he came across fallen snow covered branches and logs. “There has to be an easier way back to the station.” He thought, he scans his surroundings.

He noticed that there was a snow covered hill within reach and just below it he hoped was the train station.

He begins to gallop towards that with Twilight in tow.

“Just a little more.” Sombra thought, once he reached the top, his hoof slips and both go tumbling down the snow-covered slope, connection into the icy water.

Both of their bodies go under, but as Sombra resurfaced- Twilight did not. Sombra then quickly dove back under, using his magic to pull Twilight along.

Once the two reached the surface, he lets go of Twilight in his magic.

She was still unconscious. After painting and catching his breath he lifts her up once more this time the station and the train where in reach. He used what little magic he had and teleports the two inside.

***

The conductor was still in Sombra’s trans from early, so the conductor was still under his commands.

“Take us back to the Crystal Mountains.” Sombra orders.

“Of course my king.” The conductor said, starting the train to their destination.

***

Twilight woke up, her mind still hazy. “....... where am I?” She asked.

“My Queen, you’re safe here in the Crystal Mountains.” King Sombra said, smirking at her.

“The… The Crystal Mountains? No! Why did you bring me back here?!” Twilight said, glaring at him.

She tried to fire her magic at him, but he only smirked at her. “What did you do to my horn?!” She asked, realizing that it hurt to try to strain her magic at him.

“Uh… I think I just saved your life! And that I brought you back here because I wanted you alive? You see my Queen you can never escape from me.” He growls.

Twilight scoffed. “Of course you did, by trying to kill me mere seconds ago?!”

Sombra rolled his eyes. “As for your horn I nullified it. I honestly should have done that much sooner.” He said, glaring at her.

Twilight rises her hoof, before striking. She then looks at the King in disgust. “I don’t even know you!” Twilight said, her tone broken and bitter, before leaving the room.

Sombra held a bewildering look, his anger rising. He chases after Twilight before grabbing her with his magic and slamming her into the cobblestone wall. Twilight could have sworn she felt whiplashed. Sombra looks at her a look of anguish and pissed displayed on his features, as he watched his future queen gasp for air.

“Don’t you ever disobey your King again!” Sombra hissed, his tone low and threatening.

“Do you hear me?!” He belows at her.

Tears gathered in Twilight’s eyes, as she silently shakes her head. Sombra in return gives her a smug smile, before slamming her to the ground. He looks at her, his facial expressions were cold.

“I still had your room aside for you, but since you want to be a royal brat! I guess another night in the stone cold cage should teach you a lesson before disobeying me. What do you think?” He asked.

“Y-yes my king.” Twilight mutters, tears aligned her eyes.

“Awe my dear, don’t cry. Everything will be alright. You’ll see soon enough.” Sombra smirks.

“I will never be yours.” Twilight said, her teeth bared.

“In due time. Now come back to the cage you go.” Sombra said, luring her to the cage.

***

“If I’m your “Queen” then this is a pretty pathetic way of treating royalty.” Twilight said, her eyes narrowed at Sombra.

“Maybe start showing some respect then you’ll earn your place in this castle! Until then you’ll stay here!” Sombra snaps.

“Go to Hell!” Twilight yells.

“Oh my dear! Your already here! And you’re dancing with the Devil.” He said, winking at her before heading off to his chambers.

***

Four months later….

"I can't believe it has been months, and still she resists and coil upon my request… Yet that was pretty clever what that brat try to pull over on me." He slammed his hooves on the ground, revealing cracks on the walls and ground.

“However-“ Sombra paused as he looked at the grey casing with the indentions of an ancient word, he smiled at it. "Now there is an idea..." He looked at the grey casing and he turned around to the chamber.

He walked towards the cage where Twilight was held, he threw the grey casing, mostly looking like a box where a wedding ring would be kept.

"My queen, would you care to open the box..." He said, sarcasm in his tone as he smiled at her.

Twilight was skeptical at first, hesitant really, but without questions she opens the box displayed before her. "What is this?" She asked.

"A wedding ring, just for you." He neared Twilight, no hostility in mind, he gazed upon Twilights reaction.

"It's for my future Queen, who would rule beside me..." He looked at Twilight with his eyes staring into hers.

"I..." Twilight was speechless, as she gazed upon the ring.

Sombra, smirks at her awaiting her answer.

"I'm sorry, but I can't." Twilight said, her ears flatten, she pushes the ring box out of the cage.

Sombra gritted his teeth a little, but his tolerance got the best of him, he levitated the ring to her and the box to him. "Let's think about it for a second here dear, you'll be much happier with me, I'm giving you what you wanted." Sombra said going nearer, he placed the box beside the cage, red smoke coming out a little, going towards Twilight.

Twilight inhales the smoke, she coughs violently, Sombra looking at her with a disappointed gaze, Twilight looked at him seeing another pony beside him, but it looks like her.

"What did you do to me!?" She asks, crying a little, tears forming in Twilight's eyes.

"I simply did what I had to do to force you to marry me, I had to take "precautions" and clearly you made your choice, so I made mine… also you broke your deal of the contract so let this serve as a warning to you Princess.” Sombra said, his tone was filled with hate and disappointment.

The mare beside Sombra looked at her wickedly. "So we meet at last." She sneers at Twilight.

"W-who are you?" Twilight asks, slightly scared.

The mare smirked. "It's it obvious? I'm everything you desire to be." She said, looking at Twilight said.

"T-that's impossible! I'm nothing like you." Twilight said, her teeth bared at the young mare.

"Oh how touching, looking I'll leave everything up to you, take control of her little by little for me would you dear?" He looks at Twilight, a grin etched on Sombra's face.

"Would most certainly''dear ``..." The mare sneered at Sombra, Sombra gave out a small chuckle.

"Watch your mouth, or I'll put you down..." Sombra smirked at the mare, she smirked back.

"Put her to sleep for me, and do what you want with her." He looks at Twilight, a giggle came out from Sombra.

"Looks like it's just you and me." Taunts the mare.

Twilight looks at her, a look of disgust etched on her face.

"We both know what you really want and that's power.... You want to hurt the ones who have wronged you, just like that piece of trash you call a "mentor" Celestia." She spats at Twilight.

"I don't want to hurt anypony." Mutters Twilight.

"I know deep down that you loathe the ponies who have wronged you like that pitiful excuse of an ex-husband of yours Discord." She sneers.

"Would you quit throwing the past in my face?!" Sneers Twilight.

"Oh but it's fun." Fawns the mare, giggling.

"Leave me alone!" She backed up to the back of the cage, tears forming in her eyes slowly, Twilight rubbed her eyes, thinking that this is an illusion.

"Do you really think that everything your seeing is a dream?" The mare snears at her, her face unidentified from the brightness of the chamber.

"Oh "Me" you entertain me, let me awaken you from your world of friendship and Cliche..." The mare stood out of the light, revealing Twilight Sparkle in a different form.

Twilight gasped, taking in the mares young appearance. "Y-your..." Twilight said, baffled by the mares appearance.

The mare giggled. “Yes, I'm you- well the better, powerful and prettier version of you." She snarled at her, her teeth sharp and her mane and coat different from Twilight's original coat and mane, her mane jet black with dark pinkish red streaks and her coat dark purple.

"And I'll take matters into my own hooves..." She said as she shot a beam of magic into Twilight's horn, slowly fading into Twilight's head.

Twilight laid their dazed and confused.

Her eyes glazed.

***

"Where am I?" Twilight said, her voice echoed in the void.

"Why in your subconscious of course." Giggles the mare.

"And your just in time for your daily dose of pain and suffering, "Miss Sparkle", you think your almighty and powerful you can't even beat me or him!" The dark Twilight snarled at her, she was right beside her, her eyes just like Sombra's.

"Do you even think that he'll let you live to see the light of day? No, no, no that's too quick! You'll be the perfect mare for him, you'll see..." She said laughing at Twilight, multiple Twilight's appeared laughing at her.

Twilight put her hooves over her ears, trying to block out the noise. "Enough!" She shouts.

All of the Twilight's went near her, laughing while multiplying around her, everyone surrounded her including her friends, looking at Twilight with distaste. "Everyone here loves to see the real you Twily...don't make it hard for us..." She fawns, she appeared in front of Twilight, pulling her hooves away from her ears slowly. "You can't resist what I'm giving you...I know you'll love it!" She said giving a deadly look at Twilight.

Twilight blasts her horn at the multiplying of herself.

The blast went through them, their eyes turning red from anger and disappointment. "So this is what Sombra is dealing with, a stubborn little mare, a stubborn little mare who doesn't know how to learn!"

The evil Twilight kicks Twilight down to the dark ground, the tentacles wrapping around Twilights torso and legs.

"You make it so hard for us do you Twily, I am very disappointed, in due time you'll break and I'll be in control of everything!" She spat out, walking towards Twilight with anger

"Do you really want this to end badly?" She questions the mare, her gaze disappointed and her tone annoyed.

"No! But I won't listen to you!" Twilight snaps.

"Oh, but you know that this is the right thing to do, you know. My point is I know what's best for you, Twily. I always have. I know it and deep down you know it to.” She snears.

Twilight didn't listen, but tears were forming in her eyes, she sobbed a little while the evil Twilight was looking at her, smirking.

***

Sombra awaits in his room, deep in thought. He didn't bother looking behind him because he knew who was behind him.

"So how did it go?" He asks, his tone calm.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Ugh! That mare that you captured is impossible to corrupt!" She snapped.

Sombra turned to look at her. "That mare will be at her downfall sooner than you think." He hissed at her.

"Yeah right, she's so.... Stubborn!" Twilight said, her tone leaking boredom and sarcasm.

Sombra gave her a low, laughter. "My dear, never doubt the King of Shadows he always gets what he wants." He snears.

"News flash, I'm starting to doubt you, "My king"..." The evil Twilight spat out, she looked at Sombra, with the most annoyed look on her face.

"Well, I guess failing is part of this process now that you think about it..." The evil Twilight muttered to herself quietly.

"What was that?" Sombra snaps at her.

"I'm just saying, it takes a few failed attempts before anypony-even you- can truly achieve your success." Twilight explains.

Sombra thought for a moment, even if this was just a manifestation. It did have a point- even if she was sassy and full of sarcasm.

"Correct, but soon you'll take place in her mind, making her even better than before, as I said, never doubt the king of shadows, I always get what I want!" He turned back, looking at the windows, seeing storm clouds heading in.

"And what about miss goody two hooves right there?" The Evil Twilight questions the King of Shadows, her tone calm and sarcastic.

"She'll break in due time. We just have to give her a little push in the wrong direction." He smirks at her.

She grunts with an annoyed tone, she then turns her look at the doorway, but she spoke up before leaving.

"Take care of this problem for me, I'm craving to get inside that big brain of hers..." she said, walking out the door.

Sombra rolled his eyes. "She so full of sarcasm and sass." He mutters to himself.

Sombra took his time to think, on how to approach Twilight, he turned back at the door leading to the chamber, he saw Twilight sobbing a little.

He looked back to what he was looking, and thought to himself. "What if I warm up to her, be more of a "gentlecolt"...maybe she gets the Colt she deserves..." Sombra mutters to himself, thinking of a plan on how to approach Twilight.

"What if I give her a little bit of freedom..." He said looking back at the doorway leading to her chamber.

"Ah yes, it's the perfect time to be, as they say...a "Gentlecolt"..." He said as he levitated another black rose.

Twilight heard hooves make a connection with the cold cobblestone ground. She slowly raised her head up looking at Sombra with watery eyes. "Just leave me alone." She mutters, her tone full of hurt.

Sombra lowered the bars carefully, not wanting to startle the Alicorn in pain, he looked at her with no smug look, but a bit of a concerning expression.

"I know what you think, I might hurt you again, fear not." He said, putting a rose in front of her, this time a red rose that has it's petals shining a little.

"Despise me if you want, I know what you feel." He said looking a the Alicorn with a calm expression.

"Despite everything, your a tough mare to crack, which is a good thing because...y-you keep your head high." He tries to make conversation with the Alicorn.

Twilight looks at the stallion, with a skeptical look, she holds the rose he gave her in her aura. She looks at it for a moment before looking back up at Sombra. "...... Okay what's the catch." She asks.

"No catch, just something I wanted to give you." He looks down at the ground, shuffling his hooves a little.

"I just simply wanted to give you something beautiful since, it matches you." Sombra said, smiling a little.

He moves back a little, prepared for the possible snearing of foul words.

"I know what you think of me, a monster, a tyrant, I'm all those things but you of all ponies should know, monsters have hearts." He gives Twilight a smirk.

"Sombra, you can't just kidnap a mare and force her to love you, that's absurd, it's really bad to force someone in a love habit! After all I've been through..." She looks back at the rose, she levitates it back to Sombra, Sombra's face turned from calm to a little frown.

"I understand, but if you want, the cage is down, your free to roam around in this room, and this room alone. At least you have taste of freedom." Sombra said, levitating the rose back up and putting it in a nearby flower vase.

"Call me when you need anything dear." Sombra said, turning back and about to leave.

Twilight bit her bottom lip, she sighed."Sombra. Wait..." She calls out. She looks down at the ground, carefully taking a step out of the cage for the first time in months.

"Yes, my dear?" Sombra asks, patiently awaiting the young Alicorn to answer.

"T-th..." Her eyes started watering, tears dripping down her face rapidly, she ran up to Sombra, hugging him tightly.

"THANK YOU!" She yelped, crying on Sombra's shoulder.

Sombra looks, surprised by the young mares actions. "Y-your welcome." He said, slightly baffled by her actions.

Twilight then looks at him, tears still filled her eyes.

"Thank you so much..." She moves from the hugs, she smiled a little.

"Are you hungry, do you want something to eat or drink?" He asks, his tone calm and reassuring.

"Yes." Twilight said.

"We'll get you something to eat." Sombra ignited his horn, making a strawberry whipped cream smoothie appear in front of Twilight.

"Mix of chunks of Strawberries with lovely whipped cream, solid and liquid altogether." He levitates the food to Twilight, waiting for her to grab the smoothie.

Twilight looks at the shake, slightly confused. "Uh... thanks?" Twilight said, looking at the shake.

"Did you put anything in it?" She asks before taking a sip of her shake.

"I knew you would say that, I didn't add anything in it besides Whipped cream and strawberries." Sombra said, his tone calm and reassuring.

"Go try it, it's delicious." Sombra said smiling a little.

Twilight then takes a sip of her shake, enjoying the flavor as it hits her taste buds. "This is delicious." She said, giving him a soft smile.

Sombra smiles back, only a little, he then turns back to the hallway headed for the 2nd story of the ruined castle.

"I have much more to attend to, your welcome to roam around." Sombra said, his voice still calm, he walks out but stops.

"And dear, avoid making a mess." Sombra said his voice Stern, Sombra walks out the chamber, leaving the door open.

Twilight looks a Sombra. “Avoid making a mess? Ha! I'm the most organized pony there is." She said.

"Then your most likely to help me organize some of my books? Don't worry I'll help out as well." Sombra said turning to Twilight, his smile showing.

"After all as you said, "Organized Pony", kinda give a lovely flare to you". Sombra said blushing a little.

"Come, we have much to fix here." Sombra said headed towards the stairs.

Twilight follows Sombra out of the chambers and up to the second floor.

"This castle is 67 years old, old yet stable if you asked me, architecture is not that bad, the foundations still holding after 67 years." Sombra started making conversations with Twilight, not killing the mood.

"The books I have are all about spells, millennial time spaces and Dark magic, back in my day when I was still a "Normal" pony, I excelled beside Starswirl." Sombra said, opening the doors to the library, the library is filled with books categorized from magic to history.

Twilight's eyes widen in awe at how enormous the library was. "How long have you had these books?" Twilight asks, curiosity getting the best of her.

"Ever since my defeat from the 6 of you, these books were left for 8 years, but I saw your every move, even in my death I can see all of your moves, including your friends." His tone calm and a bit Stern, but he brushes the anger off of him looking at the books.

"I don't blame you for defeating, sometimes crisis have to be diverted into something peaceful, it's the law of nature..." He said, dusting the dust off of the books that were on the first category.

Twilight watches Sombra carefully, not knowing what to say.

"And freedom has its own time to pass, my dear." Sombra said, placing the books into its proper shelves.

"Sombra, why are we talking about this?" Twilight questions Sombra, who stopped dusting the last book.

"Because I just wanted to settle down from all the evils I've done, I wanted to settle down with a mare..." He looks at Twilight, a calm expression on his face.

Twilight blushed a little. "Y-you mean me?" She asks, slightly stuttering.

"Why of course, Who else would I be talking about?" Sombra asked, his voice remaining calm.

"S-Sombra, y-you know I..." Twilight said stuttering word for word.

"You what dear?" Sombra said, his expression still calm and tolerant to her.

"I can't Sombra, I have a daughter who needs me more, that's why I was about to ask you to release me, I know you have a heart Sombra." Twilight said, pleading to Sombra to set her free.

"In due time dear, in due time." Sombra said, still dusting off the dusts on the books his levitating.

"But there is no time Sombra, Harmonia needs me!" Twilight said, her tone beginning to be frantic.

"Now now, I will release you, in one condition, but I will ask you that in due time.” Sombra said, his tone beginning to be stern.

"And that is?" Twilight asked, her tone, cautious.

"If you would marry me?" Sombra made the box appear in front of Twilight, revealing the ring from the inside.

"Just accept it, and all is well my dear queen." Sombra said, his tone calm and cautious.

Twilight looks at the ring, baffled a moment. ".... Sombra, I..."

She sighs. " Sombra, you have been nothing but a gentlecolt, really you have... but I-I can't accept it." She said, carefully choosing her words.

"I understand, maybe in due time I can make you change your mind, but for now, kindly help with this dear?" Sombra said gesturing at the books he was dusting.

Sombra placed the box with the ring in it somewhere on top of the shelves, and proceeded with the next shelf with Twilight.

"What would you like for dinner dear?" Sombra questioned the Alicorn beside her, trying his best to make conversation.

"Honestly I'm not all that hungry." She mutters, as she eyed where Sombra placed the box.

"Are you sure dear? You look a little distressed?" Sombra questions Twilight, who kept her eye on the box that was placed.

"You must eat something Twilight, keep yourself healthy as they say." Sombra said placing the books one by one in each category.

Twilight moved her gaze from the box to Sombra. "I'm sure." Twilight said, giving him a soft smile.

"Alright then, if you want I can show you the rest of the castle after we're done here, after all it's my first time showing "visitors" around my, humble abode." Sombra said with a sarcastic and funny tone.

"If you would help me in arranging these books? I know you're quite the bookworm." Sombra said, joking around with Twilight.

Twilight blushed. As much as Twilight loved her organization of books, she just felt really tired at the moment. She yawned. "I think I'm going to pass. What time is it anyways?" She asks.

Sombra looks at the grandfather clock, and turned back to Twilight "It's already 12:45AM, I didn't know we were up this late." Sombra's eyes widened a little.

"I guess we can fix the books some other time, for now we should get some rest, there is a spare room in the other hall just ahead, it may make you feel at home." Sombra said ready to guide Twilight to her new room across the Eastern hall of the half ruined castle.

"Thanks." She said.

They both made their way down the hallway. Making small conversation as they walked.

"So, you have a daughter? What is her name if you don't mind me asking? And no I'm not gonna "harm" her incase you get any bright ideas." Sombra's tone was blunt at the end of his question, he giggled to himself.

"I do. Her name is Harmonia. For a five year old she sure is smart." Twilight said.

"She must be beautiful like you." Sombra said, blushing a little not letting Twilight notice.

Sombra sighs. "A beautiful one she must be, and she must've inherited her smartness and beauty from you." Sombra smiled softly at her.

"I take it that you make her read your books every night?" Sombra said, his tone curious and soft.

Twilight gave a soft sigh, giggles a bit. "Not really. She mostly likes fairytale stories, normally I just tell her all the adventures my friends and I went on." Twilight explains.

"Like the adventures of you saving the Crystal Empire from me?" Sombra questioned, giggling at him and Twilight.

"Fillies and Colts these days, they love a good fantasy, but at some point, they have to know when fantasies end." Sombra said, musing to himself.

“You do know that was Spike who saved the Crystal Empire, right?” Twilight asks.

“Indeed, but it would have been better if it was you.” He said, giving her a small smile.

"Besides, a mare in distress is so funny to scare." Sombra giggled at Twilight, giving her a little soft, and gentle nudge.

"Plus at that time I could've gotten you, but alas, I was in the dark." The king of Shadows looked at the dark red tinted windows, drizzles of rain are seen outside.

Twilight watched for a moment, unsure of what to say.

"Putting that aside, here you go, I fixed it when you were down in the chamber." Sombra opened the wooden spruce door, dimly lit lights are illuminating the room, a fixed shelf filled with Equestrian History and a bottle of champagne sat on the night table.

"It's not much, but it's for your entertainment purposes and for you not to get bored." Sombra said, slightly blushing at Twilight.

***

9 Years later….

“So how's your little “plan” working out for you?” Evil Twilight asks, taunting the tyrant.

Sombra rolled his eyes at the mares presents. “Oh come on Sombra, you know you enjoy seeing me.” Twilight teases.

“I don't understand… it's been years and that stubborn mare is impossible. And besides you're nothing but an imaginary monster, but I have plans for you..." Sombra looked at the evil Twilight, his eyes pure red from anger and frustration.

"Once I break that do gooder, you get in her head and you, make some changes." Sombra laughed at Evil Twilight, he then turned to the room where the normal Twilight was held.

"Are you ready to make changes..." Sombra said, turning back to the evil Twilight that gazed upon him.

"That's why you created me right, to get inside that little head of hers, you Sombra have a desperate attitude." The evil Twilight said in sarcasm, her tongue sticking out.

"You do not amuse me in anyway...now go back to the chamber, I'll lure her out of the room." Sombra headed for Twilight's room, unsure of what to say and his guilt getting the best of him, he tried to shake it off.

"Twilight dear, can we talk?" Sombra knocked gently, not wanting to startle the Princess of Friendship.

"Sure." Twilight said calmly getting up from her sitting position.

"Is everything okay?" She asks, her tone calm.

"Y-yes everything is fine, I prepared something for you down in the chamber, and you'll love it!" Sombra beamed fakely, but not letting it slip.

"Besides a mare like you could do some beautiful changes around here." Sombra said his voice beginning to be calm.

"Come my dear you must see what I prepared for you!" Sombra guided Twilight to the chamber.

"Is it food or something? Because I just ate the leftover cranberry cookies you gave me the other day." Twilight said, giggling to herself.

"It's not that dear, it's this." Sombra opened the door, the chamber surrounded with light blue crystals aligned perfectly on the walls and ceilings.

"I made it roomy as much as possible, come let me show you what’s at the center." Sombra guided Twilight to the center of the chamber.

"Okay..." Twilight said, following Sombra to the center of it.

"Now what?" Twilight asks.

"Now is the time to make things more, extravagant..." Sombra's eyes turned red in front of Twilight, Twilight was shocked as she looked into Sombra's eyes.

"Do a favor and close the cage for me." The evil Twilight closed the cage, the bars were now filled with Sharp crystals.

"You see dear, it has been years since I haven't proposed to you yet, I was warming up to you from time to time but you don't listen to me!" Sombra snapped in front of Twilight as he levitated the box with the ring inside.

Twilight looked at him. A look of hurt and betrayal edged on her face. "Y-you used me?" Twilight's voice felt flat and broken.

"That's the idea, duh." The evil one said, her tone full of sass and sarcasm.

Twilight narrowed her eyes at her villainous counterpart. "I wasn't talking to you." She said, her tone bitter.

"Well you see, it's been years, I proposed billions of times and you don't make it easy!" Sombra stomped his hooves to the cobblestone floor, the Crystal's turning red but not doing anything.

"Do I really have to send her into your head!?" Sombra pointed at the evil Twilight.

"Just to make you mine if I have to, but in due time, we have guests arriving..." Sombra showed a vision of the mane 5 and the kids along with Shining and the others headed this way.

"You monster! Why would you do this to me..." Twilight said, her voice raggedy and ready to cry.

"I trusted you Sombra! And you make a fool out of me! I will never marry you!" Twilight bucked the cage to set her free, but the Crystal's scratched her with every buck.

"You keep doing that and your gonna get it, but that's beside the point, I want to make you my bride!" Sombra snapped in front of her, Twilight moved back a little, her fear getting the best of her.

"Now, what do we do to her?" Sombra looked at the evil Twilight who stood beside him.

Evil Twilight turns to Twilight giving her a smirk and a low sinister laughter. "Oh this will be fun." She mutters.

"You do what you want with her, I'll keep watch on both of you..." He grinned at Twilight before backing up, letting the evil Twilight do her thing to Twilight.

"And dear, don't go easy on her this time..." Sombra smirked at Evil Twilight. "Don't let her change much, I want to let her daughter see what I've created..." Sombra commanded at Evil Twilight.

Evil Twilight nods, then turned her attention back to Twilight. "Oh! Don't worry... You won't feel a thing."

"No, please...STOP!" Twilight yelled, as Evil Twilight entered her mind once more, Twilight's body stood still, her eyes white and her pupils drained of its color.

"Get...out of my...h-head..." Twilight pleaded before lying down on the cold hard metal floor.

"Now this should be interesting..." Sombra watched as he looked at Twilight, her gaze upon him was pitiful, tears streaming down her face.

"Soon, Equestria will be no more to the likes of us...my queen..." He grinned at Twilight before leaving the chamber.

Author's Note

Rewritten: November 8, 2019

Chapter 29

Chapter 29

Celestia races to the halls, looking for her sister and husband.

“Discord, Luna!” she calls out, her tone was frantic and worried.

After the letter that she had received from Spike, she couldn’t help but feel like all of this was her fault.

“Discord, Luna!” she calls out once again.

Luna bumps onto her sister filled with distress, she quickly stood up.

"What's happening Tia? Is there an international crisis on our hooves?" She says, her tone exhausted and tired from running, she wipes the dust off of her hoofs.

Luna pants, trying to catch her breath, she then takes a moment to relax and look at her frantic sister.

"Now tell me what's wrong." She said as she finally relaxed, looking at her sister with concern.

Discord appeared beside Luna, his tone stressed and tired. "What is it this time Tia, I already made you flambé, what else would you need?" He said with his tone filled with stress.

"It's none of that, it's this." Celestia said, showing the letter to Luna and Discord.

Discord takes the letter from Celestia, Discord reads the first half of the note, Discords eyes were filled with tears, as he saw what was written on the letter.

"What is it? Is it something wrong?" Luna questioned Discord, she then turns her attention to Celestia, her eyes filled with tears, she then turns her attention to Discord.

"It's something worse than that..." He crumpled the note and he teleports out of the Castle, Luna's eyes widened at the sight.

"Where is he off to this time?” She questions her sister.

Celestia teleports out as well, leaving Luna frustrated and angry, she opens the note and her eyes widened, she quickly goes to the throne room alerting the royal guards.

“Guards!” She commands.

***

Twilight lost count of how long she had been held captive here, but if she had to guess it would have been moons. She also hated to admit it, but Sombra hasn't been all that horrible to her. He has his days sure, but he wasn't that cruel.

Twilight looks around her chamber. Sombra emergences from the shadows.

Sombra circled around Twilight like he always does, Sombra wicked grin at Twilight, and turned his attention to her cage. "You truly are a keeper, for surviving this long in my sanctuary, yet you resist my love for you, how is that Ms Sparkle?" He questions Twilight with a wicked grin on his face.

Twilight looks at her capture. "Because I don't have feelings for you!" She narrows her eyes at him.

"But... I gave you everything you desire. What more do you want?" He questions the young Alicorn.

"I want my freedom." She explains.

"And I gave that to you, but as for seeing your loving daughter?" He said with a wicked expression on Sombra's face, he neared Twilights face in-between the bars "You will never see Harmonia again, because your going to be, what I always dreamed about..." He laughed at Twilight as he backed off from the cage.

Twilight eyes widen with fear as tears aligned her eyes. Fear swept through her body like a tornado.

"Let's see how you like it, when hatred surges through you..." The Chambers lights opened up, revealing Crystal's aligned at the cage, dark magic surging from each crystal.

"Soon your friends will fear you, your ex-husband will fear you, and soon, your daughter will fear you, with this magic I can make you into my own kin, my own wife..." He said, grinning wickedly.

He pauses for a moment thinking. "You know you should be grateful that I'm trying to make you happy! Such a shame that all this would've gone smoothly if you didn't resist..." He cackles at Twilight.

Twilight tried her best to blast the darkened crystals, but failed as her magic backfired on her.

Fear still swept through her. She felt like panicking, her eyes darted around the room, trying to find another way of escaping, but she was stuck, for the first time in forever she had no plan in mind.

"I want you to yell, cry in front of me, begging me to stop this from ever happening to you, because this will be the last time that you'll be seeing the light of day...My Queen..." He laughed as he illuminated the Crystal's, all of the electric current now strikes the cage, electrocuting Twilight painfully.

Twilight clenched her teeth, her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving.

Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

"These "friends" of yours will soon cower in fear, your daughter will even coward and fear you..." He laughed as he can imagine the daughter's torment, he felt the Intruders coming nearer, but he was calm.

"Everyone you cared and love, will succumb to your hate...and fear..." Sombra said, his voice sly and coy.

***

The mane 5 followed the trail that leads to a solid door, the flooring were cobblestone bricks that were leading to the temple, everyone stopped running.

"What's the hold up, Twilight needs us!" Rainbow Dash said to Starlight, her tone was filled with worry.

Starlight tried to figure out how to open the door, "Hang on, give me a moment!"

Discord looked behind them seeing a horde headed their way.

"WE DON'T HAVE A MOMENT!" Discord yells as he moved everyone aside, Discord snaps his fingers that opened the solid door, everyone went inside as Discord shut the door tightly, The creatures were pounding the solid door.

Sunset painted, catching her breath, she then looks at the group, everyone was panting from exhaustion. "How is everypony?"

All of them replied "We're fine."

Starlight continued forward, following the prints that led to a staircase headed downstairs, the halls were slightly illuminated by dimly lit candles that lead them to alcoves and hallways. They slowly reach the chamber where they saw a cage in the middle, revealing a pony inside. Everyone held their position as Starlight went forward.

***

Twilight screams in pain, trying her best to hang on to what little sanity she had left. The children and Mane 5, along with Discord, Shining and the Princesses. They all witness the horrific scene being played before them.

“Twilight!” They shout in unison, worried for their friend.

“Mom!” Harmonia said, who was equally as worried.

Twilight couldn’t hear the sound of anypony shouting her name. She fell upon deaf ears, the only sound was the sound of a constant buzzing and electrical shock.

Discord and others ran towards the cage, but not dare to get too close. In the midst of all of this Sombra was lurking in the shadows.

"Ah, you all arrived, so nice of you to join our little family get together..." Echoes a voice.

"Release her, Now!" Both Starlight and Sunset said in unison.

Sombra appears out of the lurking shadows as he stands beside Twilight’s cage, and gives a grin at the group. He stops the electromagnetic shock, to let Twilight breathe.

Twilight stood her ground, standing there staring at the cold metal ground as tears fell from her eyes.

"I hope your travels weren’t bothersome..." He soothes.

“Besides you’re just in time for the show to begin.” Sombra said, gazing at the Mane 5 and the kids. The King of Shadows especially had his eyes on Harmonia as a wicked and satisfied look was displayed on his face towards her.

He turned his attention back to Twilight, who was still wincing in pain. She let out a blood-curdling scream. He walks towards them slowly, with his scythe levitated by his magic, as he drags the blade on to the ground. He hits the blade on the forcefield around the cage, he grins at Starlight, giving a slight chuckle.

"Remove this forcefield so i can kick your flank back to wherever you came from!" Starlight yells.

"Don't make me laugh mortal, I am making her beautiful, can't you see?" Sombra asked.

Sombra hits the side of the cage with the blade of the Scythe, startling Twilight-who jumps in fear.

“And trust me it’s to die for.” Sombra said smirking.

“Why if it isn’t my old two foes Celestia and Luna. Come to witness your greatest fear?” Sombra asked, smirking at the two.

"Let her go Sombra! It's time you face Equestrian Justice! She doesn’t deserve this torture.” Celestia said, her tone rather determined.

“Oh yeah? Then why did you two drive her to the brink of her own insanity and down fall in the first place? Besides take a look in the mirror Princess, did you give her justice...” Sombra questioned.

Celestia said nothing, but gave a cold stare at her foe. However, he was right about one thing, if none of this happen maybe they wouldn’t be where they are now.

Sombra moves his eyes over to Discord, Sombra let’s on a malicious but satisfied grin.

Starlight, stepped through looking at King Sombra with hatred in her eyes, her horn charged as well.

“You’re going to give us Twilight back, rather you like it or not. I’m not sure why you even need Twilight in the first place or what twisted and sick game you are playing, but it stops now!” Starlight yelled, her tone pissed.

“Let my sister go!” Shining said, his eyes narrowed at Sombra as his sword was drawn.

“Oh I would not be so quick to pull that sword, Prince.” Sombra warns.

Shining moves his eyes from him to his sister. “Just hang in there Twily.” Shining said.

“Gah! I’m trying!” Twilight said, her teeth bared, as her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving. Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

Her head throbs, worse than it ever has before. She couldn't speak, being shocked really took the power of her words and her own process of thinking.

She screamed out in pain. Everything ached on her and through her with her head bothering her the most.

Twilight lays down, her body weak, she cried out for her friends, her eyes changing slowly like Sombra's.

"Please, STOP THIS!" Twilight pleads, but Sombra didn't listen, Twilight stood up automatically, her body changing, her fur changing as well as her eyes.

"Now, you'll feel what I feel..." Sombra laughs at Twilight as she tried to resist the change.

Twilight gasped for air, as tears streamed down her face. “N-no….” she whimpers, trying to resist for as long as she needed to.

"Are you going to give up now Twilight Sparkle, or should I amp the pain even more..." He laughed as he turned up the currency of the electricity that's hitting the cage.

However, Twilight’s teeth beard and were slowly begin to sharpen. As her head continued to pound, the emotions that she never wished to feel she actually felt: hate and fear as they slowly crept into her mind.

“This is your last warning.” Starlight threatens, her horn charged with power.

The others tried to ram the force field down, even Harmonia and Discord tried to use their chaotic magic, but to no avail nothing worked.

“Please just hang in there mom.” Harmonia said.

Twilight laid on the ground her breathing getting heavier- as tears streamed down her face, her head continued to pound, like a headache, but far worse.

“You know your mom is a powerful alicorn right little one? Well your about to witness how powerful she can really be.” Sombra snears.

Harmonia eyes widen at her mother’s wings- larger than her own- piercing through the electromagnetic bars breaking the metal pieces.

Confetti Pop was shaking in her hooves, as she held out a cross- from Celestia knows where she got it from.

“Confetti put the cross way.” Mutters Cotton Berry.

Confetti nervously shook her head no.

Twilight screams once more, as Sombra let’s put a victorious laughter. He lets down the forcefield surrounding both Twilight and himself.

Sombra laughs maliciously, knowing that he has won.

He also lets down Twilight’s cage-preparing her to destroy the ponies she once cared so deeply about. Without second guessing herself, Starlight suddenly lunged for Twilight as she grabbed her and tossing her to the hard cobblestone wall-pinning her down.

“What do you think you are doing?!” Sombra asked.

“Saving our princess from you!” Starlight seethed.

“Just hang in there a little long Twi.” Starlight begs.

“Gah!” Twilight growls, as her breathing rapid.

“Aunt Starlight! Hurry!” Harmonia cries out.

Without a second thought, Starlight ignites her horn, casting her spell into Twilight’s horn and memory- hoping to erase the dark magic that was brought by Sombra.

“Please work.” Starlight mutters.

Minutes later, Twilight blinked, slightly confused as Starlight helped her up, but she felt dizzy, as she stared to stand on all fours.

“Now to deal with you.” Starlight said, her teeth bared looking at Sombra.

Sombra scoffed. “And what is an incompetent, power hungry unicorn going to do exactly? Twilight only choose you because she felt sorry for you. She never wanted to be your friend in the first place.” Sombra said, smirking at Starlight.

Starlight’s eyes widen, without thinking she released a large burst of energy at Sombra, her aura enveloped him into nothing, but smoke and shadow-like wisps.

Twilight looks at her family and friends, unsure of what to say. I mean besides the fact that Starlight just obliterated Sombra into nothingness.

“Twilight? Are you alright?” Shining asked, worried for his sister.

“Yeah I’m fi-Fine.” Twilight managed to muster up, before she felt lightheaded and felt her body drain- before she knew it she laid on the ground unconscious.

“Twilight?” Shining said, worried.

“Mom?” Harmonia said, tears brimming her eyes.

“She must have fainted from the aftershock of what happened.” Starlight said, still examining Twilight’s unconscious state.

“Well we can’t leave her here. Come on, let's all go home.” Tempest said.

***

Twilight walks through the castle hallways, a determined look in her eyes.

A look of revenge and vila thoughts plagued her mind.

Twilight tossed and turned in her sleep. Where was Luna when you needed her?

Twilight jerked out of her sleep, beads of sweat poured down her face. She looked around her surroundings as the bright light of Celestia’s sun streamed through her curtains.

She didn’t recall much of what happened the other night, besides witnessing the fact that Starlight obliterated Sombra before passing out.

Sombra.

Wherever he was, she just hope he wasn’t too badly hurt.

Wait… why was she even thinking about him? Sombra put her through hell for months! Now that she was saved wasn’t she glad to be home?

“.... what is wrong with me?” Twilight thought.

Author's Note

Rewritten: November 8, 2019

Chapter 30

Chapter 30

The doors to the Castle of Friendship swing open to reveal Spike, a worried expression wore on his face.

“Starlight! Harmony!” Spike calls throughout the castle.

Starlight and Harmonia hurries down the hallway to be meet by Spike.

“Hey Spike!” Starlight greets.

“Is everything okay, Uncle Spike?” Harmonia asked, noticing his expression.

Spike didn’t say anything, but shoved the letter in front of Starlight and Harmonia.

Starlight grabs the letter from him in her aura and looks over it. Her expression was white as a ghost and her eyes went wide.

“But I don’t understand? I vanished him. How is he back?!” Starlight asked, speechless and rather confused.

“Apparently you didn’t vanish him well enough.” Spike mutters.

Starlight narrows her eyes at him before focusing her attention back on Harmonia. “Harmonia gather your friends, I’ll get the girls, Spike you send a letter to the Princesses. Looks like this battle isn’t over yet.” Starlight said, before looking back down at the letter.

***

“What do you mean he’s back?” Ophelia asked.

“I mean he’s back and he’s captured my mom once again.” Harmonia said.

“But I thought Starlight evaporated him.” Illusion asked.

“What does he even want with your mom anyways?” Meadow Bliss asked.

“Does it look like I know.” Harmonia said, her tone sarcastic.

“We need to warn the Princesses then.” Prism said.

“Starlight’s taken care of it.” Harmonia said.

“Can we not have a break from fighting bad guys for one day?” Cotton Berry asked.

“Apparently not. Guess we might as well be the next saviors of Equestria.” HoneyCrisp stated.

Guys, we need to go.” Harmonia said, before hurrying off to the castle to meet back with the others.

“Ugh! Here we go again! Right back to square one!” Confetti Pop groans.

“I think she’s had enough of fighting villains for a day.” mumbles Cotton Berry.

“You think?! I mean geez we have to fight him again?? What is this, an audio drama?" Confetti asked, galloping after them.

***

“What do you mean Twilight is missing again? Glim Glam evaporated that would be king.” Discord said, looking over Celestia’s shoulder at the letter.

“Well it looks like he’s back and we need to go before he actually masters whatever plan he has this time for Twilight.” Luna said.

“I can teleport all of us there with a flick of my talons. Easy.” Discord said.

“Wait what do you mean by all of us?” Celestia questions.

“You’ll see.” He winks.

***

In a flash Discord teleports himself as well as the Princesses, Shining Armor, Cadence, Flurry Heart, Mane 5, Starlight, Tempest, the children and Sunset all in the same location.

“Awe, no epic battle with the shadows or even an epic song?” Confetti wails.

“Do you want there to be a shadow apocalypse on our flanks?” Cotton Berry asked.

“Why am I even here again?” Crystal asked, her tone unamused.

“Short version of the story: Your Aunt Twilight is captured by King Sombra again and it’s up for us to save her once again.” Discord explains.

“Well, what are we standing around for?!” Sunset asked.

“Starlight, can you teleport us all inside?” Applejack asks.

“I can try.” Starlight mutters.

“And no pressure or anything darling, but could you please hurry before they get us.” Rarity said, pointing a hoof at the Shadows.

Starlight’s eyes widened before she closed her eyes quickly and concentrated on the teleportation spell.

In a flash, they were all save inside. “Now come on, let’s go find Twilight.” Starlight said.

***

A blood curdling scream could be heard all through the building.

“Twilight!” they cried.

“Now, doesn’t this scene feel awfully familiar.” Sombra muses, casting a wicked grin over to the group.

“Let my sister go!” Shining said, his eyes narrowed at Sombra as his sword was drawn.

“Oh I would not be so quick to pull that sword, Prince. You remember what happened the last time.” Sombra warns.

“Yeah and so do you!” Pinkie shouted, her voice full of anger.

Shining moves his eyes from Sombra to his sister. “Just hang in there Twily.” Shining said.

“Gah! I’m trying!” Twilight said, her teeth bared, as her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving. Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

Her head throbs, worse than it ever has before even the first time she was trapped there. She couldn't speak, being shocked really took the power of her words and her own process of thinking.

She screamed out in pain. Everything ached on her and through her. However, her head bothering her the most.

Twilight lays down, her body weak, she cried out for her friends, her eyes changing slowly like Sombra’s.

Luna bared her teeth and without thinking, she shoots her beam at Sombra, sadly she missed. He cackles at her measly attempt to attack him. “Enough Sombra!” she said.

“Oh but your too late Lulu.” Sombra mocked, giving her a sly grin.

Luna’s eyes widen at the display before her.

Twilight gasped for air, as tears streamed down her face. “N-no….” she whimpers, trying to resist for as long as she needed to.

"Are you going to give up now Twilight Sparkle, or should I amp the pain even more..." He laughed as he turned up the currency of the electricity that's hitting the cage.

However, Twilight’s teeth beard and were slowly begin to sharpen. As her head continued to pound, the emotions that she never wished to feel she actually felt: hate and fear.

They gasped at what they witnessed. Starlight cautiously reached out a hoof to Twilight. "T-Twilight..." her tone was nervous.

The middle section of the cage was illuminated by a bright light, the cage opened slowly, an echo voice came out from every side.

"I'm surprised all of you made it this far, I was getting worried you all won't attend our wedding..." Sombra laughed, hidden in the shadows.

Sunset moved from her place and yelled at Sombra. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER!?" She screamed at Sombra, her anger increased.

"I just have her what she wanted, a loving husband which is me!" He revealed himself in the corner, his grin widened and his eyes glowing. He neared the cage, as the electric current stopped hitting the cage, the cage opened slowly revealing Twilight change.

"Meet the new and improved, and my lovely wife...Twilight Sparkle..." He announces.

Twilight came out of her cage, walking towards Starlight and the group.

There eyes widen in fear at Twilight's appearance as all of them was speechless.

Twilight flashes a wicked grin at them, showing her sharp teeth.

They all gave a glare at Sombra.

"Such a shame, I thought you would be happy for us, and I thought Discord and Celestia moved on..." He chuckled at Discord and Celestia, he moves beside Twilight as Sombra flashed a wicked grin at them all.

"Sugarplum, is that you..." Discord said to Twilight, trying to get to her senses. Discord was tearing up, Harmonia went with Discord as they approached her and Sombra.

"Sugarplum!? You are truly disgusting...isn't that right my dear..." Sombra looked at Twilight.

Twilight narrows her eyes at him. "Very." Twilight tone was full of pity sarcasm, but her devilish grin held another expression.

"Soon, Equestria will be ours to rule, Equestria will be ruled by two higher beings of magic and power! And there is NOTHING, IN THIS WORLD, That would stop it's progress!" He grinned at Starlight.

"Now, be a dear and dispose of them for me, after your done playing we'll proceed with the wedding..." He grinned at the others as Sombra backed up a little, giving Twilight center stage. He watched Twilight as she handled the others.

Twilight looks at her former mentor, family members, her nieces and nephews, friends, her daughter and especially her ex husband, a sly smirk displays on her face.

Twilight pauses for a moment thinking out loud. “..... but before I can sentences you all to death. How about I prepare you all a lovely meal? See I’m not that cruel, am I?” Twilight asked, before turning to leave.

The others, even Sombra looked at her confused. “You all just stay here at the kitchen table and I’ll be right back with the food.”

***

“Since when does Twilight know how to cook/bake anything?” Sunset asked.

“Well she’s baked and cooked a few times in the past, as far as I can remember. I remember when I was trying to one up her in cooking by having a cook-off between her sweet potato muffins and my cauliflower bites, sadly hers was better.” Spikie said, slightly grim over the memory.

“Actually they were both great.” Fluttershy said.

From the other side of the table, Luna felt unease. “..... something feels off…” Luna muttered quietly to herself.

Flurry’s ears pricked upward, hearing Luna muttered to herself. She looks at her slightly confused. Everypony sat there for a moment, deep in thought.

“What do you mea-” she was about to ask. However, Pinkie Pie interrupts her.

Everypony sat there for a moment, deep in thought. “..... well I’m sure whatever Twilight is planning on baking will be delicious!” Pinkie Pie said. “Besides I’m hungry!”

“Pinkie? When are you not hungry?” Applejack questions. The girls quietly laughed, but Twilight’s voice rings through the kitchen, which made them jump.

“I apologize if the food is taking a tad longer to prepare. Sombra is helping put the last finishing touches on the food, give or take another five minutes or so.” Twilight explains.

“Oh it’s fine. Take your time Twi.” Rainbow Dash said.

Once the kitchen door closes, Rainbow spoke in a hushed whisper. “..... okay why the hay would Twilight just randomly invite us all in for dinner?” She asked.

“..... something doesn’t make sense.” Muttered Starlight questioned.

“.... what doesn’t seem to make sense?” Twilight asked, walking through into the dining room hall.

“Discord! You know how he is about never making sense.” Rainbow Dash said, nervously laughing.

Twilight looks at her with suspension. “...... right….” she muses, looking at her ex-husband.

“Well I just came to tell you that the food is done. Sombra and I will bring it out in just a moment.” Twilight said, smiling at them.

10 mins later….

”Finally.” Twilight said as she watched Sombra bring out the food.

“Are you sure you don’t need any help?” Twilight asked.

“No thanks my dear, I’ve got this.” He said, smiling at her.

“Now that everypony is seated, accounted for and that the food is here let’s eat!” Twilight said, passing the bowls of food around.

Everypony looks at the bowls with suspicion. “Are you not hungry?” Twilight asked.

They said nothing.

“Our hooves are clean, trust me I don’t eat first without washing my hooves.” Twilight explains.

Again they said nothing.

“Sweet Celestia! The food hasn’t been tampered with!” Twilight said, rolling her eyes.

“Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie Pie pipes up, her voice stern.

“What?” Twilight asked, slightly taken aback by Pinkie’s statement.

“I said, Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie Pie repeats again her voice stern than before.

Twilight rolls her eyes, slightly annoyed that she would believe that her friends think she was capable of something this sinister.

“Cross my Heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye that I didn’t tamper the food, now let’s eat.” Twilight said, digging into the bowl herself.

Everypony else followed.

“This food looks simply divine.” Rarity said, gazing at her plate of food.

“Indeed! Twilight you’ve really outdone yourself.” Fluttershy said, giving her a soft smile.

“Oh it was nothing.” Twilight said, brushing off her friends comments.

Sombra coughed from beside her. “.... but with Sombra’s help we were able to pull it off.” Twilight said, smiling.

“My dear, it was your idea.” Sombra said.

“Yes and I couldn’t have gotten it done without you.” Twilight said, smiling.

“Would anyone like some punch, cider, water?” Twilight asked, sending out the three options with her magic.

Rainbow Dash was the only one to take cider, others took an option of punch or water.

The only sound that filled the room was the sound of forks and spoons scraping against plates. Twilight rubs her temples “okay what’s with the deadly silence?” She asked, confused.

“..... it’s just why are you being so nice to us?” Flurry asked, confused.

“It’s called treating my guest with humility and respect, my dear sweet Flurry Heart. I mean wouldn’t you’re father and mother do the same thing for dignitaries or others?” Twilight asked.

“.... I guess you’re right.” Flurry mutters, sipping her water.

***

For the next few hours the dinner was running along smoothly almost too perfect and smoothly.

“Who wants dessert?” Twilight asked.

“Oooo is it cupcakes? Pastries?” Confetti asked.

Twilight lightly giggles. “Not exactly. Sombra and I made a 3 layered hypnotic cake.” Twilight said, bring the black and white cake into the center.

“A 3 layered hypno what now?” Applejack asked, confused.

“A 3 layered hypnotic cake AJ. However, I’m a baker and I’ve never heard of a cake like that.” Pinkie Pie said, looking at Twilight.

“It’s my speciality.” Twilight said, smiling and cutting the cake before giving them each a slice.

Starlight looks down at her slice. “What’s with the black and white hypnotized theme?” She wonders.

“Sombra and I just really enjoy themes for special events, now dig in.” Twilight said, levitating her fork.

The others did the same, but something felt off.

After they took a bite all of them started to feel funny- dizzy, drowsy, or having an oncoming of a headache.

A sinister smile crept across Twilight’s face, as she put her fork down her piece that she took off the cake a few seconds ago untouched.

“Oh dear, are you guys okay?” Twilight asked, her voice laced with concerned for her friends.

Twilight gets up from her seat and walks over to Celestia. “Twilight what did you put in that cake exactly?” Luna asked.

She noticed that Luna and Celestia had a headache as well as feeling dizzy. As for the others they were starting to feel the symptoms at once, maybe two symptoms or one over the other.

Twilight walks over to her daughter, raking her daughter’s mane. “Oh nothing really Luna, just baking powder, butter, eggs, milk, flour…” Twilight said, going on about her used ingredients.

She noticed the group was starting to get drowsy. “Oh and…. Rozerem.” Twilight said, a cunning smile at them.

Before they knew it they were out cold. “Oh don’t worry the risk is low didn’t want to harm the children now did we?” Twilight asked, her teeth bared.

Sombra looks at the group who were out cold.

“And I thought the minimum amount that was dashed in the food and drinks would hit them right then and there. Good thing we had the dessert.” Twilight mused.

“So while we have our wedding what are we going to do with them?” Sombra asked.

“We invite them to the wedding of course.” Twilight said.

“And why couldn’t you have done it while they were awake?” Sombra asked.

“You know they wouldn’t have agreed to come to it or comply, especially my daughter. So let’s just say I took extra precautions.” Twilight said, giving Sombra a sinister smirk.

“Send one of my guards to get them situated while we get ready.” Sombra said.

“Of course.” Twilight said.

***

6 hours later….

“Ugh…. my head.” Starlight mutters.

“Where are we?” Cadence asked.

“Everypony okay?” Fluttershy asked.

“Why are we in a church, exactly?” Applejack asked.

“Well we certainly didn’t come here to praise our lord and savior Princess Celestia.” Confetti Pop mutters.

“No offense.” Mutters Cotton Berry. “Excuse my sister’s rather unpleasant comment.” He said narrowing his eyes at her.

“Your forgiven.” Celestia mutters.

“And why can’t I move?!” Rainbow Dash asked, struggling against her will.

“Why can’t any of us move?!” Luna asked.

“It’s like we are being held against our will.” Rarity said.

“I can’t even use my magic to set us free!” Flurry said.

“Neither can I!” Crystal said, trying to ignite her horn.

“I don’t believe none of us can.” Shining said.

“So we are supposed to sit here like earth ponies?! Being magic-less and flightless?!” Honey Crisp asked.

“Uh no offense Momma or Aunt Pinkie Pie.” Honey Crisp said, looking bashful at the two.

“None taken sugarcube, but I believe Twilight done something to us.” Applejack said, her teeth slightly bared.

“You think?!” Rainbow hissed.

“Harmonia? You’re a draconequus can you use your magic to set us all free?” Opheliah asked.

Harmonia who was two rows over was slowly but surely coming too.

“Where am I? Why are we in a church?” Harmonia asked, her mind hazy.

She tried her paw at magic, but nothing but a small raspberry spark came out.

“Apparently we’re going to learn about our lord and savior Celestia.” Sunset said, her tone sarcastic.

“Really?” Prism said, coming to.

“No.” Starlight said, her tone blunt.

“Okay is anypony going to question why is there a preacher there? Are we sure we’re not learning about Celestia?!” Meadow Bliss asked.

“Pretty positive your not little one.” Celestia said.

“Is anypony going to question why King Sombra has approached in a tux?” Shining asked.

“Wait ... if everyone is here then where is Twilight?!” Discord asked.

It then dawned on Shining Armor. “If we weren't chained down to these pews and our magic and wings weren't penalized for use in a church I swear to Celestia you would be a dead stallion by now!!!” Shining sneerers.

Sombra gave a pout. “Awe, you know I’d hate to kill my own brother-in-law on the day of his sister’s wedding day.” Sombra said smirking at him.

“You truly sick.” Mutters Harmonia

“Is that any way to talk to your father-in-law?” Sombra asked.

“You are not my father.” Harmonia sneered.

“Your not of any type of in law to any of us.” Crystal said.

Sombra gave a glance to Crystal. “..... not yet anyways.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant.

As if on cue, the doors open to reveal Twilight, who was all dawned in black lace wedding dress attained, her mane done in an elegant updo and on her mane was a crown similar to her old one, but this one was coal-grey-ish black and held the Element of Magic in place.

Harmonia eyes filled with tears as she was forced to watch her mother marry the monster that corrupted her and one that she will never call her “father”.

“Mom… no…” Harmonia whispers. She tried to get up, but was met by an electrical shock. “Ow!” Harmonia wailed.

“Be a well behaved daughter and SIT YOUR FLANK DOWN!” Sombra sneers.

“Um sir…” The preacher tried to speak up, but was met with Sombra’s meanching glare.

“DO NOT SPEAK UNLESS SPOKEN TO!” He sneered.

The preacher said nothing more. “The next pony to move from their spot won’t live to tell it!” Sombra sneered.

The group looked onward at the destruction that was displayed before them… as much as it pained them they were forced to watch.

The preacher continued. “Ladies and gentlecolts, species, creatures… we have gathered here today to witness the union between a King and his Queen. May we have the rings please?”

“Sombra, Do you take Twilight as your lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?"

“I do.” Sombra said, looking at Twilight.

"Twilight, Do you take Sombra as your lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?"

“I do.” Twilight said, smiling at her soon to be husband.

“If anypony can show just cause why this couple cannot lawfully be joined together in matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace" The preacher announced.

“I ob-” They all try to shout, but Sombra quickly ignited his horn, silencing the group.

“Mhm!!!” They all huffed, they couldn’t speak, but throw glares at Sombra.

The preacher looked astounded for a moment, not knowing what to say next. “...... Well if all is in order and no pony is willing to object then I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may now kiss the bride.” The preacher announced.

Sombra then takes Twilight in for a passionate kiss, before looking out at the sea of ponies, who didn’t have the exact same joyous expression as them.

“Who cares what you ponies think! We are lawfully married now and there's nothing you can do about it! However we can now begin our after-party.” Sombra said.

“.... and that constants of?” Harmonia asked, slightly worried of what the response would be.

“Getting rid of you two!” Twilight said, firing her magic at Celestia and Discord.

Cadence quickly throws her defense shield around the two. As much as she disliked the way they both played Twilight, she knew they didn’t deserve this.

“Oh don’t worry, their not my only main target. So are all of you!” Twilight sneers.

“How about before we destroy such a beautiful church we do this in a more vast area of destruction.” Sombra suggested.

“Very well thought out my King.” Twilight said, before kissing him once more.

***

Starlight went in front of Discord and Harmonia, Harmonia reached out for her mom, Harmonia screamed the word "MOM! IT'S ME!" Harmonia cried as Starlight carried Harmonia.

"I don't think she cares at the moment Harmony, dear." Ophelia said, her tone laced with fear.

"SHE'S MY MOM, MOM PLEASE LISTEN TO ME!" Harmonia jumped off from Starlight's back, she hugged her mom's leg tightly, Starlights eyes widened as she might get hurt.

Discord yelled and ordered Harmonia to get back "Fuzzball get back here now! She's not the mother we know!" Discord said his eyes filled with tears.

"Harmonia I need you back here now, that's not Twilight!" Starlight ordered Harmonia to come over to her, Harmonia latched on to her mother, crying and sobbing hard on her leg, Everyone watched as Harmonia hugged her mom tightly.

"Little one we need you back here now!" Celestia ordered her student, but Harmonia did not listen.

Sunset looks at Starlight "What do we do now!?" Sunset questions Starlight.

Starlight thinks for a moment. The only the only thing she could think to do was try and get Harmonia off of Twilight. She ignites her horn, wrapping Harmonia in her aura.

Harmonia held onto her mother, she cried loudly as she tried to pull Harmonia off of Twilight, Harmonia looked at her mother, her eyes filled with tears.

"I WANT MY MOTHER BACK...MOM LISTEN TO ME, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!" Harmonia demanded, she still held on to her mother tightly.

"Nothing's working darling!" Rarity said, as she tried to help Starlight pull her off.

"Be gentle with her! She's just a child, we need to reason with Twilight!" Fluttershy said, the kids watched in horror to what they saw.

"I want my sister in law back!" Cadence replied to Sombra, as she blasted a light magic on him, but Sombra faded back into the shadows, watching.

"Sugarcube, listen to our voices, it's us your friends, he is not your husband!" Applejack yelled at Twilight.

Twilight looks at them with distaste. "Yeah, right. If you cared you would have came after me years ago." She rolled her eyes. "And if you don't get off of my hoof. But let me put this in a way that you idiots will understand. " Twilight said, sneering at her daughter.

“In more idiotic terms for you simpletons to understand I'm not the damsel in distress.” Twilight sneers.

Harmonia's eyes widened at her mother's words, her mind was filled with fear, she didn't let go as she still hugged her mom, trying to get to her senses.

"I want my mom back...please, listen to me mommy, it's me Harmony!" She sniffled and buried her face onto her mom's hoof.

Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth in anger and dashed for Sombra, Sombra appeared beside Twilight, not minding Harmonia, He disappeared again as Rainbow Dash hits the cage, she falls down her head spinning. “Well that didn't work.” She mutters. Prism follows behind her.

Prism shook his mom rapidly "Mom, are you okay?” He tone was rather worried for her.

“I'm fine, Prism.” Rainbow Dash mutters, rubbing her head.

Starlight looked at Twilight, reasoning with her.

"Is this what you want Twilight, hurting everyone you made friends with, EVERYONE LOVED YOU! AND YOU LOVED THEM! I need you to resist and comeback to yourself!" She neared Twilight, her eyes filled with tears but her expression filled with bravery and determination, as Sunset and the others followed Starlight carefully.

"I am tired of wasting my time with them dear...dispose of them..." Sombra whispered in Twilight's ear.

“Gladly.” She snears. She blasts dark magic at them. They dodge out of the way, avoiding from getting hit.

"Did anypony bring the Elements of Harmony?" Honey Crisp asks.

"No!" Cotton Berry said.

"That would probably be really helpful right about now!" Wails Phoenix.

Ophelia panicked and hyper ventilated "WE'RE GONNA DIE DOWN HERE!" Honey Crisp tried to calm her down as they took cover. "Nobody is dying down here! Just be careful!" The kids hid behind one of the pillars.

Starlight looked at Twilight and Sombra, Discord and Celestia were right in front of them after they've dodged the attack.

"Twilight, please find your heart and spare these ponies you attack, but find it in your heart that these ponies love you!" Celestia responded to Twilight, but she didn't care.

Twilight came face to face with Celestia, her eyes narrowed. “Why should I believe anything you say?” She sneers at her.

Twilight charges her horn, black magic sparks through her horn as she was ready to fire.

“Because what I am saying is the truth. Twilight this isn’t you I know you are stronger than any magic Sombra has over you.” Celestia said. She tried her best to hold her composer, but she truly was feeling fear.

“Lies!” Twilight shouts. In that moment, Twilight shoots a beam at Celestia.

Celestia, did not have a moment to react- or even throw a defense shield around her, before she knew it she was already down on all fours.

“Celestia!” Luna cries out.

“You really shouldn’t underestimate me.” Twilight said, her tone darkened.

“"That's my girl..." He said to Twilight as he kissed her.

“Sister? Are you okay?” Luna asks, helping her sister up.

“I’m fine. I’m fine.” Celestia said, her breathing rapid as she narrows her eyes at the two. A small trail of blood trickles from her mouth. She wipes away the trail of blood.

"I believe it's about time we, stop this madness before things get out of hoof." Sombra said calmly as a barrier of shadow blocks their way, Harmonia was pulled from her mother from the blast, she laid unconscious on the ground, her ears ringing loudly, Discord picked up his daughter and carried her, Harmonia cried onto Discords shoulder, he made his best to calm her down.

***

Harmonia and the group escaped from the chamber of the everfree forest, Discord carrying her daughter.

Harmonia cried her ears still ringing, but her mind clouded with confusion and pain. She then looks at the one carrying her, Discord looked at her own daughter.

"Put...me down..." Harmonia commanded, her voice Stern and strong. Discord didn't listen, he just walked with the group still carrying Harmonia, Harmonia gritted her teeth and demanded one last time.

"I SAID, PUT ME DOWN!" she yelled at her father as she bucked his face, removing herself from her father's grasp, Harmonia landed with a hard thud on the ground, tears forming in her eyes until she sobbed. Harmonia said to herself quietly "It's my fault mommy left...I miss mommy..." She started sobbing harder, screaming as she begged for her mother to come home "I WANT MOM BACK!" She laid down on the ground, curled up covering her face from the others, Starlight hurried up and grabbed Harmonia.

"We will get her back, I promise." Starlight said, her face held a look of determination.

"I want...M-mom back..." She looked at Starlight, her eyes filled with tears and bloodshot red, she hugged Starlight tightly, sobbing onto her fur, they stayed like that for awhile until the Harmonia looked at Celestia, her anger beginning to over take her again.

"It's your fault...that daddy left us..." She gritted her teeth, looking at Celestia, filled with hatred in her tone and look.

"I'm sorry little one, I should've known this was the outcome of my misdeeds..." Celestia said, going near Starlight and Harmonia, her tone full of pity.

Starlight looks between the two, feeling the slight tension between them.

Harmonia breathing went ragged. "You just better hope that we get her back." Harmonia eyes narrowed at the Princess, her teeth bared.

Celestia didn't reply, the tension between her and Harmonia was too big to bear for Celestia, she felt so threatened, she gritted her teeth and she looked at Harmonia, she didn't say a thing but she walked away with Discord out of the everfree leaving Harmonia and Starlight and the group to stand in confusion.

Applejack yelled at the two "HEY GET BACK HERE!" But Discord and Celestia were already gone out of sight. She turned her attention to the two on the ground, giving a pitiful look on Harmonia, Harmonia's sobbing didn't stop as she still remembered all the fun times she spent with her mother.

***

Somewhere deep within the Everfree forest, was cave on the center of the ground, spikes surrounding every corner of the crater that surrounds the cave in. An underground staircase was seen, two shadow figures were walking down, one red and one purple light illuminated the dimly lit spiral staircase.

"Ponies think their safe from darkness that shrouds them, it's repulsive..." The torches were scorched with purple fire, revealing Sombra and Twilight, with a wicked smile on their faces. "Surely we can, give them an incentive incase they do, drastic measures, right dear?" Sombra looks at her evil wife, a cold and villainous smirk etched on his face.

Twilight thought for a moment. "If it comes to it then, that's what we will do." Twilight explains her tone nonchalant, but she flashed her husband a wicked smile.

"We destroy it, but of course, let's give them a little, trial and error." He replied to her wife, giving her a smug grin. He ignited his horn burning the spikes surrounding the entrance to the cave in and the two went in, Twilight illuminated her horn revealing the path way to the Tree of Harmony, it revealed a big cave chamber with the tree in the middle, covered in spiky vines.

He torched the spikes that surrounded the Tree of Harmony, and the vines that surrounded the place making the place bright. "I believe that this is where it's kept?" He broke the trees lock, revealing the gems inside, he took the element of magic and friendship with his magic and moved it from angle to angle.

"I believe this belongs to you miss Sparkle, would you mind if I keep it for awhile..." He looked at Twilight with a dominant smile on his face.

"In all honesty destroyed it. Who needs that element anyways." Twilight sneers, her tone leaked with sarcasm.

"I like your thinking dear, but I don't want to spoil the fun yet, I want them to come to us...I want them to suffer as your daughter suffered before us..." He sneered at Twilight, putting the element of Magic and friendship onto a metal casing that has a scorched mark of Sombra's armor.

He looked at the tree for a moment gazing upon its power and glory to Equestria, he exhaled in a satisfied tone.

"Soon Equestria, and all it's ponies will be shrouded in everlasting darkness!" He yelled as the fire inside the cave in grew brighter, his eyes filled with anger and hatred.

"And nothing will stop us! Not even those pesky alicorns." Snears Twilight.

"Why of course dear, we are going to rule all over the nation's of Equestria, not even those pests that oppose us, without the last element, they are defenseless against us!"

As he was done talking he went up to Twilight, kissing her with passion. "Now, let's take care of business..." He looked at the cave as all of the vines fell to block the tree, but not all.

***

The mane 5 and the kids walked back to Twilight's Castle, followed by Shining and Cadence. "I can't believe that, Twilight would turn into a monster..." Fluttershy said, her eyes filled with tears as she hugged her son tightly, Meadow Bliss nuzzled his mom, giving her a reassuring smile.

"Let's not give up now! There must be a way to revert the spell and suppress the magic in her!" Sunset said as they all ran to the castle.

They barged in, heading to the library, Starlight and Sunset were finding the book to suppress or revert dark magic back to its original state. "Which one is it Starlight?" Sunset questioned her friend, frantic while looking for the book that suits their needs.

Starlight scanned the castle library. "Twilight has about over a million books in here! It will take us forever to figure out which one is the correct one." She explains to her friends.

"There has to be something here." Mutters Cadence, who already grabbed two books, flipping through its pages.

Starlight and Sunset found the last book, with the indentions of ancient Equestrian writing, one of Starswirl's books of magic study and novels, Sunset and Starlight smiled at each other as they both yelled "WE FOUND IT!" Everyone smiled as the two placed it on the friendship table.

Cadence opened the book, revealing dust mites flying towards them, they both coughed as they swayed the dust away, Sunset flipped the pages, revealing a specific page of dark magic.

"Starlight look what I found!" Sunset called out to Starlight, she rushed to her friend.

Starlight scans over the page, she smiles to herself. "This is it!" She beams.

"What does it say?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

"We need the Elements of Harmony for this, if we want Twilight back and to defeat Sombra once and for all! Does anypony know where it's located!" Starlight asked, but everyone shook their heads, except for one Dragon.

"I know where it is, it's in the deepest part of the Everfree forest! But it's too dangerous to go out at night!" Spike alerts them, his voice tells them it's forbidden to enter the everfree at night.

"I guess we can wait until morning to go there." Suggested Rarity.

"For now we should get some rest." Said Fluttershy.

"You can stay here if you would like." Offered Tempest.

"That would be lovely, but we can't take advantage of-" Luna said, but gets cut off.

"Please I assist." Tempest said.

"Alright, little ones, it's time for us to rest. Guards, keep the castle secure, we don't want Intruders to come in now!" Luna commanded at the Royal Guards, they all saluted at the Princess of the night and they took positions around the castle.

Harmonia stops shortly, thinking to herself before turning around to face the others. "That's a great plan and all, but I can't just sit here and do nothing." She said.

The group remained silent, except for Shining. "Nothing? Well you will be taking notes on how to be a better ruler!" Shining explains.

"Okay, well I rule that I go after Sombra! It's the right thing to do." Harmonia said, placing a hoof on Shining chest. Her tone rather determined.

“All those in favor of Harmonia not hunting for the Elements of Harmony and staying in the castle til Sombra is caught. Please raise your hoof.” Shining said, looking at the others.

Everyone raised their hoofs.

“Hold on! This wasn’t about me being stuck at home.” Harmonia huffs.

“It is now. Harmony, you may not know how Sombra is but the rest of us do.” Shining said.

“We are just trying to look out for you sweetheart it’s for your own safety.” Cadence said.

Harmonia looks over at her cousin, hoping that Flurry would be able to reach some sort of agreement with her parents.

“Sorry Harmony, but I agree with them.” Flurry said.

“Fine! Leave me at home while Sombra just roams free! Let the guards take the fall instead of calling on me.” Harmonia said.

She shook her head. “You blew it! I’m through just know you made a mistake.” She said and with that she slams the door shut the echoing bouncing off the castle walls.

Shining gazes at the door for a moment before turning back to the others and his wife. “We did the right thing.” Shining said.

"We better stay here and learn the location of the tree of Harmony, Spike knows where it is, but we need guidelines!" Sunset explains.

“Starlight if you could teach us how to use it, we can be done in no time!" Rarity said her face filled with determination, she looks at everyone as they all nodded at her.

"Then let's do this..." Starlight said looking at Sunset, they both started studying the location and how to use it, it may take time for them to master.

***

The children shared a room. All of them snuggled into bed.

"Goodnight." Tempest said, she gently shuts the door.

Harmonia awaits til her aunt's hoofsteps were silent. "Is anypony still awake?" She questions into the darkness.

"Me!" Announces Confetti.

"Shh!" Mutters Ophelia.

"I overheard Miss. Shimmer, the Princesses' and Uncle Spike talking.... Something about a tree called The Tree of Harmony?" Harmonia explains.

"What's the Tree of Harmony?" Asks Honey Crisp.

"I'm not entirely sure...." Mutters Harmonia.

"I know what it is!" Confetti Pop beamed as she grabbed a flashlight and she turned it on, she shines her head only.

"Legend has it that the Tree of Harmony contains all of the elements of Harmony, the element of Laughter, the element of Honesty, Loyalty, Generosity, Kindness and the most important element of all!"

Harmonia cuts her off and she realises her true element, she looks at all of them. "I'm the element of Magic and Friendship...that's the element my Mom wants!" She looks at her friends, filled with determination, everyone looked at Harmonia, a plan forming in all of them.

"So much for beauty sleep,” Ophelia sighs. “Alright dear, what's the plan..." Ophelia asks, getting out of her bed.

"I say that we go and find the elements!" Beams Harmonia.

"Are you crazy?" Asked Cotton Berry.

"At the dead of night!?" Meadow Bliss was shocked by her statement.

"But it's dangerous outside, who knows what's in the Everfree Forest!" Prism told Harmonia, his tone filled with fear.

"If it means coming back home with it and studying it's magic, I'm in!" Honey Crisp sides with her friend, Harmonia smiled at her.

Cotton Berry and Confetti Pop smiled at each other and they both beamed "Count us in!"

"Welp, count me in too I guess." Meadow Bliss casually said, siding with Harmonia.

Illusion comes in, overhearing the conversation "You need a real Colt to guide and protect, I'll go." He casually said, looking at Prism.

Prism's eyes widened "Hey! I'm coming too!" He sneered at Illusion.

Prism eyes narrowed at Illusion. "Besides, what's Mr. Perfect doing here, anyways?" He asks Harmonia, obviously annoyed by his appearance.

"His family is actually staying with us from the time being. To make a long story short, it's family issues." She explains to Prism.

"Aw come on now we got rich Colt on our side!" Prism sighs, his face now down in the dumps, Illusion came in the room.

"Well you need more than one Colt to not get you killed out there would we now Prism Dash?" Illusion looked at Prism with a smug look on his face, a playful tongue came out of Illusion's mouth and he giggles at him.

"Now thats...touché..." Prism said, following them to the window.

Illusion opened the window doors, and he lowers a blanket that's tied so they can climb down. "After you m'lady." Illusion gestures, Harmonia giggles at him as she went down first, all of them followed leaving prism the last one.

"I swear this is gonna be the worst night ever..." He goes down as well.

*

They make there way to the head of the forest. "Have any of you been here before?" Harmonia asks.

"Heavens no." Mutters Ophelia.

"I have and it's really not that spooky at night." Beams Confetti Pop.

"Still..... I suggest we keep our horns lit, just in case. These woods can be impossible to see at night." Illusion explains.

"Sure mister know-a lot, you don't need magic to go in there, all you need is fire!" Prism grabs a rock and a stick, he tries to ignite a spark on the fire but to no avail.

Cotton Berry replied "Stop trying to show off Prism nothing's working so far." He said slightly annoyed, as he watches Prism ignite the fire.

Harmonia went to Prism, grabbing his shoulder slowly, Prism blushed so hard he can't even turn to her. "I think that's enough Prism." She said, softly at Prism, who was blushing a little.

"A-alright..." Prism said, dropping the rock and stick, he follows the others to the forest.

"It's awfully dark in here!" Ophelia says out loud, Harmonia and Illusion lights up their horns, staying side by side, Harmonia was a bit scared but Illusion stood beside her, Harmonia blushed madly as Illusion did the same.

"That Colt is stealing my mare!" Prism thinks to himself, angry and frustrated at the rich Colt infront of him.

"Yeah, rich Colt knows the way..." He mutters to himself, watching the two at the same time, Prism was at his boiling point.

Illusion happen to over hear Prism's snarky statement. “You guys go on a head, Prism and I will catch up with you in a bit.” Illusion said.

The girls, Meadow Bliss and Cotton Berry looks at the two in confusion.

“I just need to have a talk with my friend.” He said, giving a glare at Prism.

They shrugged and went ahead leaving Prism and Illusion alone.

“I don't see what your problem is.” Illusion said.

Prism scoffs. “My problem?! I don't have a problem.”

Illusion smirks. “Seems like somepony is jealous of Harmonia and I.”

Prim gazes narrows at the young stallion. Who gave a small laugh. “Don’t worry we're just friends.” he said, his tone nonchalant.

“Just friends?!” Prism scoffs.

“Yep.” Illusion said and continued onward.

***

The two finally caught up to the group. Illusion went ahead catching up with Harmonia. Prism Dash hangs back with Meadow Bliss, Honey Crisp and Opheliah. Meadow Bliss noticed the young pegasus aggravated expression and his narrowed scowling eyes towards Illusion and Harmonia.

"Are you jealous of Illusion and Harmonia!?" His asks, as a grin cascades onto his face.

"N-no..." Prism said, his tone slightly baffled.

"You are redder than the apples on my Mama's farm during the summer time, Prism." Honey Crisp explains.

"You stop talking or your gonna get it!" Prism threats, but gave up quickly due to the fact that he sees Harmonia and Illusion together.

"Hey I'm just kidding Sugarcube, nothing to be mad about now." Honey Crisp explains, nudging him slightly, Prism smiles a little. "I know, I'm sorry it's just that...I'll tell you once this is over ok?" Prism questions Honey Crisp, Honey Crisp nods a little smiling at Prism. Prism nods and continues trotting to the center of the everfree.

Illusion stopped, blocking Harmonia towards the ledge of the cave in. "We're here..." Illusion said, as everyone stopped trotting and looked at the deep rabbit hole.

"Does anypony know how to get down there?" Questions Ophelia.

Confetti Pop falls down the long ascending staircase. "We take the stairs silly." She said, giggling.

The others looked at each other and shrugged, following after Confetti.

Harmonia let's Illusion go first, Illusion nods and he goes behind the group, the group goes ahead of Illusion as they descended down the stairs.

Harmonia went to Prism, who was trotting to them slowly "What's wrong Prism?" Harmonia asks, lifting his chin up slowly.

"It's nothing Harmonia, I'm just checking for signs of danger, come on let's go!" He said, as he blushed but not letting Harmonia see. Harmonia smiled a little as she followed him down the stairs.

***

"This is it the Tree of Harmony." Harmonia beams.

Ophelia looks at the environment, the vines burnt and crisped, she didn't like the vibe she feels down her fur.

" I don't like the feeling here..." Meadow Bliss said, looking at the burnt trees.

"Oh what's this!" Confetti Pop looks at the small metal casing, that has the indention of Sombra's armor in it.

Her eyes widened, as he looked at everyone else. "GUYS!" She screamed as a black shadow whipped across her, grabbing the box from her hoofs.

They quickly turned around their eyes widen.

"I believe you're looking for the Elements of Harmony..." A familiar voice startled everyone, it was Sombra who was standing in front of Harmonia. "I also believe that this is what you need..."

Harmonia's eyes widened as the first piece of the elements was taken, Harmonia's eyes narrowed at him. "Don't be mad at me little filly, you don't want to trigger your mother now do we?"

Sombra turns around, revealing Twilight who was grinning at her daughter, the elements were wrapped by a vine made out of spikes and thorns.

Prism and Illusion huffed as they went after Sombra. "Self righteous fools..." He said as he whipped the two across the chamber, they landed with a hard thud on the ground. Harmonia's eyes widened.

Twilight made her way to her daughter, a smug smile on her face "Come on baby, it's time to go to sleep..." Twilight blasted a spell that made everyone go out, all of them laying on the ground snoozing. Harmonia tried to resist, looking at her mother. "Mo-mother… p-please..." She said, a tear fell from her eye.

Harmonia finally lays down, unconscious and sleeping, Twilight sees a tear dripping down from her eye. Sombra looks at her, a nonchalant expression on his face.

"Is something wrong dear..." He questions the Alicorn beside her.

"No..not at all!" Twilight grinned as she giggled a little. She looked at Sombra giving him the go signal that the two will do next.

"It's time...come dear we have much to do..." He said, as the two left the cave, trapping them inside with the vines.

***

Tempest walks around the halls of the castle, Royal guards patrolling around as well, Tempest and Shining were walking around, their horns ignited looking around in the dark.

"How are the kids." Shining questions the Royal guard, the Royal guard replied "All of them are accounted for!" Tempest nods, still patrolling with Shining.

"So I see your family stallion, you are very lucky marrying a princess." Tempest said, making conversation with Shining.

"Yeah, hard duty being a Royal Guard, but being a dad is harder." Shining said chuckling to himself a little.

"You must really love your daughters, huh?" Tempest ask, giving him a small smile.

"I'd do anything for my nation, and my family." He looks at Tempest, a smile on his face.

The Royal Guard came rushing to Shining Armour, a frantic look on his face. "Sir, the kids are missing, they escaped through the window!" Shining's eyes widened, his breath raggedy.

"Call in the guards! Tell them to rally outside! Tempest, get the mane 5!" He ordered Tempest, as he ran out the main hall with the guards outside in line formation.

Tempest gathers the Mane 5, startling them out of their sleep. A loud slam could be heard from inside the castle, which startled Trixie awake.

Trixie was startled, she snorted as she woke up, looking everywhere but her night folds were blocking her eyes sight, she looked around furiously until Starlight removed her night folds. "Hey take it easy, it's me! Starlight!" Trixie calmed down a little.

"Starlight don't scare me like that! I was trying to get a good night's sleep!" Trixie snapped at her friend for scaring her like that, but she calmed down little by little.

"What is it this time?" Trixie asked Starlight what was happening outside.

"Your son is missing..." Starlight said, her voice frantic and stressed, Trixies eyes widened from those words, she pushed starlight away and went to the front door, screaming her son's name.

"ILLUSION! WHERE ARE YOU BABY!" Trixie yelled as she went out the door, looking everywhere.

"If I had to guess, he must have escaped with the others." Starlight explains.

"Well where could they have went?" Worries Trixie.

Trixie looks at Starlight, tears streaming down her eyes, she runs to Starlight as Starlight hugged her tightly. "Trixie, it's gonna be ok! They must've went somewhere nearby we can find them!" She pleads to Trixie.

"Are you sure..." Trixie looks at her, tears still streaming down her face. Starlight nods, as she looked at the mane 5, everyone one of them were worried, crying and frantic, but Starlight held her hopes up and spoke up.

"Guys, if we don't get ourselves together, we can never find them in time! Listen to me, they can't go somewhere far!" Starlight reassured everyone, Trixie stopped crying, wiping her tears a little.

Applejack spoke up as well, reassuring the others "She's right! We can't just sit here and cry and stress ourselves out, we act now and fast!" She looks at Shining, asking them where they were headed.

"Where are they headed Sugarcube?" Apple Jack asks Shining Armour for more details.

Shining looks at them. "I honestly have no clue where they could have went. I mean who plans on sneaking out in the middle of night?" He said.

Starlight looks at Shining, with the most stricken look on her face, her eyes widened at one thought that swept through her mind.

"Harmonia!" She yelled, she looked around for any traces of her niece.

"You mean Harmonia planned it?" Tempest said, with a confused look on her face, she looked around for any traces of them around.

"Who else would disobey house rules Tempest..." Starlight said with a blunt tone, she kept on looking around for clues or traces of Harmonia.

Applejack came across a path way to the forest, she looked down and saw hoofprints, multiple hoofprints traced together. "Sugarcube, I think I know where they went..." She gulps as she saw the traces leading to a forest.

"But that's where the Elements of Harmony are located!" Spike said, with a frantic tone, he followed the traces leading onto a cliffside and a hill nearing Fluttershy's house.

"So much for hospitality..." Rarity whined, but her worries got the best of her, she followed Spike.

***

"I can't believe the kids would go out and do something like this." Trixie said.

"Well that is Harmonia for you." Starlight mutters.

"I mean how many times have we told them to never go in the Everfree Forest alone at night?" Trixie rambles on.

"About a few years, clearly children these days just don't know when to quit snooping around." She stated bluntly towards Trixie, Starlight goes to AppleJack, looking at the direction of the hoofprints that are headed to the forest.

"Well let's hope they haven't gone that far yet, why are they headed there anyway?" Cadence questions Starlight, a frantic look on the Cadence's face.

Rainbow Dash looks hovers over them looking at the map that the kids had left behind. "Apparently they were planning on going to the Tree of Harmony." She said, squinting her eyes at the map.

"Oh for the love of...I don't even want to say it!" Starlight snapped, she started to calm herself down a little, breathing in and out heavily.

"That's right just let it out." Fluttershy pats the back of Starlight, slowly calming the enraged mare.

"Do you need a bag Star!?" Pinkie Pie appeared beside Fluttershy, holding a paper bag, Starlight shook her head, trying to calm down.

"Well if it's all the same to you I'm going, who's with me?" AppleJack questions everyone, with a determined look on her face.

"Well you know I am, darling." Rarity said.

"Count us in." Shining said.

"Us too!" Rainbow Dash said.

"Eh you just might as well say we're all in AJ." Pinkie Pie said.

Applejack nods and the group treads forward.

***

The kids awakened from their painful slumber, their heads still throbbing and pounding from the spell Twilight blasted, Harmonia looks around looking for her friends.

"Honey, Prism...anypony there?" Harmonia called out as she stood up slowly, dusting off the pebbles from her shoulder, she walked slowly towards the exit of the cave in, but to be blocked by vines.

"Is anypony there!? Somebody, answer me!" She called out again, feeling scared and isolated from her friends, Ophelia replied. "I'm here darling...where are you, it's dark in here..." She said trying to navigate her way in the darkness.

"Why is it so dark in here?!" shouts Prism, trying to navigate through the darkness.

Confetti Pop looked around scared of what lurks in the dark, Cotton Berry bumped into a vine and screamed, letting everyone know their location.

"Well that's the two..." Meadow Bliss sighed as he walked towards the source of the sound, Harmonia ignited her horn letting everyone know her location.

"Thank Heavens your alright Harmonia!" Ophelia hugged Harmonia, worried her best friend, Honey Crisp spoke up, smirking.

"Well glad to see your still on four hooves." She said nudging Harmonia.

She giggled.

"Well now that we are all together again, how do we get out of here? Our entrance out of this cave is blocked." Illusion explains.

"Does anypony happen to remember what happened exactly?" Questions Cotton.

Everyone tried to recall the events happen, but none came to them.

"I.... I don't remember...." Mutters Harmonia.

"I reckon we are here in a bad way..." Honey Crisp looks around, seeing vines that are still crawling to the entrance of the cave in, blocking their path.

"This feels like detention again..." Confetti Pop brings up the topic, everyone giggled.

"Well apparently a bigger detention if you ask me..." Prism said, amazed yet scared of the sight in front of him, he saw a black figure twitching, whispering words.

"Umm.... Y-you guys what's that?!" Illusion said.

Everypony turned their heads their eyes widen.

"Where's our Mom's when you need em?" Honey Crisp whales.

The shadow figure looked at them snarling as it neared them, the figure spoke in a soft tone "You should've not come here..."

A recognizable evil tone was heard from the shadow, as it's eyes glowed red from anger.

Everyone was backing up slowly to the entrance, they bumped on to the vines blocking their way out, everypony tried to pull the vines out.

"Keep pulling, we need to get out of here!" Prism said, pulling as hard as he can to open up a path way out of the cave.

"Easy for you to say, we're not strong as you!" Confetti replied, pulling at the vines to try and get away from the monster.

"Uh guys it's getting closer...." Warns Confetti Pop.

"Can't you see we are trying!" Said Harmonia, her voice laced with fear.

"Everypony, pull!" Prism yelled, pulling the vines as hard as they could, the vines started ripping up slowly, but that didn't stop the monster headed for them, a beam of light was shown when Honey Crisp ripped open a portion, hitting the monster with the sun's beam.

"Hey, Honey keep doing that again!" Prism said, going to Honey Crisp and helping her rip the portion of, the Monster repelled a little.

Illusion looks at Harmonia. "You can do spells, right." He asks.

"Y.. yeah, but I don't see how a silly spell will help us at a moment like this." Harmonia said.

"No.... No spell, just shoot a beam of light at it! Maybe it will vanish. Want to help me?" Illusion asks, giving her a half grin.

Harmonia nods. “Cotton Berry and Ophelia. Come on over and help.” Harmonia instructions her two friends.

The monster roared at them, as it ran towards them with brute Force and great speed, the eyes were glowing blood red. "Meet your fate, here and now..." He said snarling at the kids, Harmonia, Illusion, Ophelia and Cotton Berry blasted beams of light at the monster, repelling it a little from them.

"Self righteous fools..." The monster said covering itself, the shriek from it was intense and painful.

"Whatever you are doing keep doing what you're doing, give us some time!" Prism yelled, helping Honey Crisp rip a portion for them to escape.

Illusion and Harmonia both nod. They kept blasting light at the creature.

"You know you're pretty good at this." Illusion said.

"This is not a time to flirt." Harmonia said, blasting another beam of light at it.

"But you are very stunning dear, your aim is precise!" Illusion said, repelling the monster as it neared them again.

Meadow Bliss, HoneyCrisp, Confetti Pop and Prism pushed the other section of the vines that were nearly removed.

"You better help us here!" Meadow Bliss yelled at the two ripping the other vines.

The seven of them started bashing down the weak section of the vine, making a path out of here. "Everypony, PUSH!" Prism yelled, as they bashed down the vines, revealing sun rays coming in the cave.

The monster looked at the sun and to his body, his body was fading away little by little.

Harmonia blushed a little, but the quickly took notice at the shadow's slowly diminished body.

"Look! I think if we do just a few more blasts it will be gone for good!" Harmonia said.

She takes another aim at the shadow, it's body half dissolving.

"You can never stop, what's headed for you...little ones..." The shadow smeared, looking at them with hatred filled in its eyes.

"You should do the honors..." Illusion said, looking at the monster’s eyes.

"Excuse me, but we are like preteens." Confetti Pop sass.

"Now's not a time for jokes, darling." Ophelia mutters.

"One day, the heart of Equestria will burn in everlasting darkness, and I know you'll see it in your mother, Harmonia Nyx Sparkle..." The shadow grinned at Harmonia, giggling a little as it's face was fading, he started burning a little as he looked into her eyes.

It vanished into thin air.

The group walks over to Harmonia and Illusion.

"What does it mean by that?" Meadow Bliss questions.

Harmonia shook her head. "I'm not entirely sure, but whatever it means, I'm pretty sure this isn't the last we see of them." She said.

Sounds of hooves beating against the galloping were heard, a sound of frantic parents were nearby the cave, calling out for their daughters and son's.

"Meadow Bliss! Where are you!" Fluttershy can be heard, crying while running down the spiral steps of the cave, the mane 5 and the others followed Fluttershy down below.

"I'm right here mom!" Meadow Bliss shouted.

"What do you guys think you are doing out here?!" Tempest questioning, mostly looking at Harmonia.

The parents hugged their sons and daughters, Harmonia was now confronted by Tempest and Starlight, their tone worried yet angry.

"You should not have ran off like that! What made you go out in the middle of the night Harmonia?” Starlight hugged her niece, her tone was filled with worry.

Tempest eyes narrowed at Harmonia, listening for an answer.

Harmonia looks slightly worried. She didn't know what to say exactly.

"We are waiting for an answer." Tempest said, her tone unamused and blunt.

"Well, you see I...I..." She looks at Tempest, her tone was filled with fear and worry.

"I think what she's trying to say is..." Illusion looks at Harmonia, his smile reassuring.

"It was my idea, Ms. Tempest for bringing all of us out here." Illusion took the blame for her, his tone calm and soft.

Starlight’s eyes widened, when she looked at Prism, anger started rising in her slowly.

"And you go out there behind your mother's back!?" Trixie walked up to Illusion, her tone frantic and worried.

Illusions eyes widen. "I was only trying to help them, mother." Illusion explains.

"You could've yourselves killed out there!" Trixie hugged his some tightly, Illusion hugged her mother calming her down little by little.

"You should be ashamed of yourself, you put a lot of lives out here just for your schemes!" Tempest said, as she snapped in front of Harmonia and Illusion.

"Aunt Tempest it's not his fault! It was me, I asked them if they want to go to the Tree of Harmony..." Harmonia finally spoke up, Starlight moved back slowly.

"Harmonia, your in big trouble miss..." Starlight scolded Harmonia.

"Don't think y'all four are off the hook either." Said Applejack. Looking at the remaining group.

"She's right." Rarity said.

Rainbow Dash, walks up and hugs her son, before slapping him. "Ow! What was that for?!" Prism wails.

"That was for doing something stupid." Rainbow Dash said. She then embraced her son in a loving hug.

"You two are so in trouble! Come here my little cupcakes!" Pinkie pie hugged her twins, as she sobbed and buried her face on her little ones fur.

"Ophelia dear when we get home you and I are gonna have a long discussion..." Ophelia looked at her mother with her eyes rolled, Rarity and Ophelia went ahead.

The Mane 5 looked at the Tree of Harmony, they notice something was off. "Wait, you guys..." Rainbow Dash calls after the girls.

"What is it Dash?" Asked Applejack.

"Where is the Element of Magic?" She asks.

“More like where’s the tree?!” Applejack said looking at a destroyed Elements of Harmony tree.

"It's right there AJ." Pinkie said, pointing to the spot, but when she looked, her ears folded back. "Oh..."

Starlight looked at where the tree once stood, her eyes widened. "Something wrong, where are the elements of Harmony!? That was the key to defeating Sombra!"

Rarity ran up looking at the bits of tree that remained, she fainted beside Starlight but Starlight grabbed her as quick as she can. "Now we're never gonna beat him..." Rarity whined, Rainbow Dash looked at the tree once was and the Elements that we’re now broken bits on the cold cavernous ground, she wasn't surprised.

"Was Sombra here when you guys entered? And who was Sombra with?" Tempest asked them, her tone still turning soft.

The kids tried to remember, but their thoughts were fuzzy. "I.... I don't remember." Harmonia said, trying her best to put the pieces of her memories from what she could remember back together, but she couldn't recall a single thought.

"Twilight must be with Sombra, but they were here last night..." Starlight looked at Tempest, unsure of what's coming next.

Tempest looked at the mark with ashes and shadow marks near Harmonia, she inspected it. "Did you encounter anyone besides Sombra..." She looked at Harmonia, questioning her.

Harmonia eyebrows furrowed together trying her best to think.

"The memory is fuzzy..... It's like whoever it was didn't want us to know that they were with him." Harmonia said.

"Ooo, I remember! It was Aunt Twilight." Confetti Pop said.

"How would assume it's my mom?" Questions Harmonia, slightly confused.

"Duh! Because she's evil." Said Confetti Pop.

Harmonia thought for a moment, remembering really hard, her eyes widened as she realizes it was Sombra and Twilight, who knocked them out with a spell.

"It was my mom, she's the one who knocked us out...and Sombra got the elements of Harmony!" Harmonia told Tempest, Tempest nodded as she stood up from her inspection.

"Any Idea where they went from here?" Tempest asked Confetti Pop and Harmonia.

"Well I remember them heading out of this cave, then...they trapped us in here...and a black shadow pony just appeared..." Prism said, scratching his aching head.

"Great! So Equestria is doomed!" Said Trixie, her tone worried. "Wait... When did Twilight turned evil. I thought she was some goodie-two-shoes princess?" Trixie said, slightly confused.

Harmonia gave Trixie a deadly glare, Starlight stopped Harmonia before she could even walk towards her. "That's enough sweetie, we'll find your mother..." She said to Harmonia, her tone reassuring.

"Well technically she's not since Sombra did something to her!" Cotton Berry beamed, smiling after his sentence.

"Now is not a time to be proud of our statements dear..." Ophelia said, making her way to Harmonia, she stood beside her.

Tempest looked at the burnt marks and the shadow marks, her eyes widened "Did you fight somepony here?"

"Well we fought a big scary shadowy monster." Honey Crisp explains.

"Sombra's anger makes more of "these" creatures we see, and I think this is what made Twilight, not herself anymore." Sunset said, looking at the book for more details.

"If that's the case, we better head back before more come for us!" Spike said, opening a path way back.

"Great idea, we better head back and see what we're up against." Starlight said, rubbing Harmonia's mane.

***

Sombra and Twilight were at the catacombs underneath the hills of Canterlot, an old underground study room, meant for Starswirl a decade ago. "So this is where the old fool resides, at the final push of his breath..."

Sombra wipes the dust off of the tables that were aligned, he chuckled to himself, he then looks at Twilight who was standing next to the doorway.

"Would you imagine the possible damages we can commit to Equestria...with you alongside me..." He said moved towards Twilight, twisting the elements around him and her.

"With you...we can become even stronger than any weakling..." He said looking at her with a sultry gaze.

"Well for starters Sombra, I want to know why we're here instead of enslaving Equestria to it's hooves, I want the ponies that fear us, bow before us!" Twilight demanded to her evil husband, Sombra smirked at her as he gave a look of reassurance.

"My dear, time will come to that, for now we must rally the all powerful..." Sombra said as he levitated the Elements to Twilights bag, Twilight zipped the bag closed to keep the elements safe.

"As of now, I must visit with an old friend..." Sombra said about to leave the long underground catacombs, leaving Twilight to wait.

"And who would this "pony" be...you better not be cheating on me now, my king..." Twilight said teasing his evil husband.

"Not this time my love...I would never replace you, for now we take matters to our own hooves, wait here..." Sombra said leaving the catacombs, Twilight was left to wait, but she has a weird feeling in her.

Sombra makes his way down the long hallway. His hooves echoed off the cold stone floor.

He illuminates his horn, making another passage way appear, as he walks through. "It's about time you came." Came a familiar voice.

"I thought you wouldn't come to our reunion, Chrysalis..." Chrysalis was guarded by two heavily armoured Changelings, chains wrapped around them and their body buff and big.

"I also thought you wouldn't make it here, you know as they say, the early bird catches the worm...or rather eats it entirely..." Sombra laughs at his own statement, he summoned two Shadow figures behind him.

"I believe you called me here for a reason Sombra...and what would that be..." Chrysalis said, moving in between her guards, she now appears in front of Sombra, her head held high.

"Well you see, I am in need of assistance, from you of course and your lovely, Swiss cheese army...and that gullible goat who loves taking magic from others..." Sombra's gaze reflected upon Chrysalis's eyes, he circled around Chrysalis, looking at the guards.

"Your army is of great use to me, and with you leading among it, I want you to be the backbone of my little''plan`"..." He said with a harsh tone giving a smirk to Chrysalis.

"And what is this brilliant plan of yours anyways, Sombra." Asks Chrysalis.

"We haven't teamed up together in eons, since we last did something like this?” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant. "Besides I'm simple asking you a favor." He gives a sly smile to her.

"And what may that be?" She asks, slightly skeptical.

"Imagine Equestria under our control, with my "wife", you and Tirek alongside me, the four of us will show this world, that they are not safe from us..." His tone angry and nonchalant, he circled around Chrysalis and the Guards, still looking at them with interest.

"You will make a great left hoof mare for me, you with an army, Tirek with the magic, and my wife with a deadly thought..." He looked at Chrysalis, a deadly glare in his eyes, he walked towards her.

"I want Equestria to bow down to us, this is my plan, to rule over the weak!" He said.

Chrysalis held a sincere, but devious look on her face. "What's in it for me?" She asks.

"You can finally have your revenge on Starlight Glimmer." He said.

***

Twilight paces back and forth, her patience wearing thin. "Ugh! Where could he be? What's taking him so long!" Twilight mutters to herself.

Sombra walks in the study room, his eyes illuminated with power, he slammed the door shut, the cracks formed.

"You were waiting for me I see." Sombra said, chuckling at her. She nuzzles her brainwashed wife, giving her a deadly gaze.

"Of course! What took you so long anyways?" Asks Twilight.

"Oh some meeting with an old friend, nothing to be of concern here." Sombra said, levitating the bag filled with the elements of Harmony to him.

"I see you are curious, I know you want to know more, so ask away dear." He gave her wife a deadly smirk.

"What was this meeting about exactly?" Twilight asks, curiosity getting the best of her.

"Well, you and I are gonna rule the world you see...and without protection, we cannot achieve that, I know you want the power, I know you want the glory." Sombra said going near Twilight's face, his look calm and dark.

"I just want protection, for our sake, so I called in a familiar face..." Sombra said, tying the knot of the bag were the elements are kept.

Twilight thought for a moment. "You are correct, my King." She said, she gives a kiss to Sombra. "But the next meeting you have, I'm coming with you." Twilight said.

"Of course you are, after all I want them to see how lovely you are, how changed you have become." Sombra kisses her wife back, he smirked at her as he lay the bag down.

"Now, we must continue with our plans, we have much to do..."

Twilight follows Sombra out of the room. And they both made their way back to the Crystal Empire.

Author's Note

Edited/Revised: January 29, 2020

Chapter 31

Chapter 31: Equestria & Canterlot’s Best Kept Secrets

Harmonia groaned, obviously bored. “I’m fourteen years old, and I can’t believe Aunt Starlight grounded me for an entire five weeks!” She complains, she lays back on her bed. “Just because I sneaked out to try and find help…. Or well help of some sorts.” Harmonia mutters the last bit to herself.

Tempest came in to check on her every once and awhile, due to the current events that happened, but Harmonia kept saying she was fine when clearly she wasn’t. She’s lost her dad, when she was only five and now nine years later, her mother has yet to return to her.

Where does that leave Harmonia you may ask? Pinned up in her bedroom, with the only visitors where her Aunt Starlight and Tempest. It does get pretty lonely in the Castle of Friendship, but Harmonia has gotten use to it by now. She loaned to have just that one special moment together again, with her family as a whole. For the last 6 ½ years, she kept blaming herself that it was her fault for Discord’s leaving when in all honestly Flurry Heart has been right all alone, it wasn’t her fault… it was Celestia’s fault.

Harmonia sighs, she looks around her room, clearly annoyed with how messy her room has become. Even if she did look like her dad and had his chaotic powers, she also could not stand a messy room like her mother with her organization skills.

“My mom will come around, she’ll be back I’m sure of it!” However, she’s been believing in this saying ever since Twilight has been captured and now corrupted.

Harmonia got off her bed, not needing to have her mood worsen anymore than it already was. She makes up her bed, with a snap of paw. Harmonia then moves over to her bookshelf organizing all of her old fillyhood books, from when she was a child, even if the books were old and slightly worn out from all of the reading and re-reading her and Twilight did, she still found a sentimental meaning to them.

“What I would give for you to even be here right now, mom.” Harmonia mutters, as she moves a few of her books around.

Her coordination to be crowned was next week, and what she would give to have some advice about being a good ruler would be very helpful right about now.

Harmonia sighs, as she calmly went back to rearranging her bookshelf. She picks up a book, but before she had a chance to put it in its correct slot. Something from that book fell to the floor, Harmonia looks slightly confused, as she picked up the mediocre sized snapshot. She picks the picture up, turning it right side up, it was a picture of her when she was younger, she had her arms crossed as if she was mad at something, but she couldn’t recall why. She flips the picture around and notices something was scribbled in Discord’s handwriting.

“Uh? What’s this?” She asks to herself.

She reads over the handwriting, sure enough it was her fathers.

Harmonia slowly puts down the picture, blinking back tears. Starlight, who was standing idly in Harmonia doorway, gave a soft smile. “That was on the day before your mother and father’s wedding.” Starlight said, her tone soft.

The draconquus blinks back her tears, she then turned to face her Aunt Starlight. “Wh-what?” Harmonia asks, slightly confused.

“Discord wrote this on the night before your mother and him got married. He wanted to make a promise to you that whatever he does wrong, to know that it was out of protection for you and from the well-being of his heart.”

“So, your saying that marrying Celestia was his reason for protecting me?” Harmonia questions, her tone slightly icy.

“No, I’m saying is that whatever he did good or bad that you should forgive him. Holding a grudge isn’t healthy for you, believe me I should know.”

Harmonia looks at her aunt, slightly confused. “Let’s just say that I ruled a foreign village full of ponies who lived there into give up their special talents.” She said.

“So you turned into a dictator?” Harmonia asks.

“Basically, but your mother is the one who saved me with friendship and to seeing the light again.” Starlight sighed. “What I’m trying to say is. Don’t give into your hate and bitterness toward your father-”

“But, he’s the reason why mom is gone in the first place.” Harmonia snaps, her tone slightly bitter.

“And I’ve told you time and time again that we will get her back.” Starlight said.

“How’s that going for you? It’s been nine years and she is still gone!” Harmonia teeth bared slightly.

“I know you are only speaking out of hurt.” Starlight explains.

Harmonia sighs. “No, your right.” She mutters. “I just wish our family was together again like in the old times.” She puts the picture back in her book, and places it back on the shelf.

“And it will be.” Starlight mutters, she gives Harmonia a hug.

***

Two ponies stood on the balcony overlooking Equestria and the courtyard of Canterlot, ponies moved back and forth with their everyday work, Fillies playing with Colt's. One of them overheard their mothers talking, as Amiris was too occupied admiring the view.

"Luna, we have to get Twilight back before she turns into something what we feared the most..." Celestia said, her voice stressed and worried over her student who was once Twilight Sparkle.

Tiberius went a little close to the door, listening to the conversation.

Luna sighs. "Indeed sister. However, with the Elements gone. We have no clue how to stop Sombra."

Celestia sighs. "I've heard. Spike sent me a letter, explaining the current situation. Doesn't look like it's getting much easier from here on out." Celestia mutters the last bit to herself.

Luna placed a hoof on Celestia's shoulder, reassuring her sister, Luna smiled softly to Celestia calming her sister down a bit.

"We'll get our Twilight back, we just need to-"

"Who needs Twilight! It's nothing that you two should worry about!" Tiberius opened the door to the balcony, his look calm and a bit smug.

Luna gasped at the statement, before looking to Celestia, preparing for a reaction so devastating.

Celestia's reaction triggered anger and disappointment on her own son, she walked up to Tiberius who was shaking in fear on what he just said.

"And why are you listening to grown up conversations Tiberius? We talked about this remember?" Celestia's voice was Stern and angry, Tiberius nodded a little, looking down at the ground.

"And you won't do that again right?" Celestia questioned her slightly annoyed son.

"Yes mother." Tiberius replied, he looked up to her mother, his face filled with guilt.

Amiris watched the two, slightly scared of what's going on, she went pass Celestia headed to Luna.

"Now if I hear another word of negativity or neglection or any side comment-” Celestia snapped a little, before breathing carefully and calming herself.

"Tiberius, Amiris, go to your rooms. Celestia and I will discuss important means." Luna ordered the two before they nodded and head for their room.

"But, Mom I didn't say anything!" Whines Amiris.

Luna went towards Amiris, and she brushed her mane gently, she placed a hoof under Amiri's chin and smiled at her.

"I know that, just go to your room with your cousin, this will be over in a minute." Luna said as she lead her daughter to the bedroom where Tiberius layed down, groaning.

Amiri nods, following behind her cousin. "This is your fault." She snaps at Tiberius.

"My fault!? I'm just saying what needs to be said! Besides this is going too far! We don't need aunt Twilight!" Tiberius snaps at his cousin, he turns around furiously.

"Besides, she's not worth it anymore! Magic can survive without her!" Tiberius throws the pillow near Amiris, and he started to calm down a little.

"What seems to be your problem with her?!" Amiris snaps back.

"We just kept on wasting time with this problem! We never even talk to our moms frequently!" Tiberius looked at Amiris, his eyes started to form tears.

Amiris groans. "I see and understand where you are coming from, but you don't need to take your frustration out on me!"

"I know, I'm sorry..." Tiberius calms down a little, breathing in and out carefully.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to snap like that..." Tiberius gets up from the bed and he grabs the pillow beside Amiris, carefully setting it on the bed.

Amiris sighs, collecting herself a little, she goes near Tiberius and she wraps a hoof around him, pulling him into a tight hug.

"Aunt Twilight is important to everything, the friendship school, her daughter's crowning, she needs to be there." Amiris explains to her hot headed cousin.

Tiberius grumbles. "I guess you're right. God I hate when your right." He said, looking at her.

"You and your potty mouth." Amiris nuzzles her cousins cheek, still hugging him, they stayed like that for a few seconds until Amiris unwraps from him.

"Well, we just need to wait for our mothers to finish up what they're talking about, then we go back and admire the view!" Amiris beams at her hot headed cousin.

"I still would like to know what's going on however, I mean we can't just sit here and do nothing. As much as I despise The Princess of Friendship, the least we can do is help her daughter." He said, as much as Amiri knew Tiberius had yet to meet Harmonia so he knew very little about her.

"Well, we can’t ask your mom about the problem, she'll just snap at us again...but we can ask my mom!" Amiris beams at Tiberius, she goes to the door, listening to the conversation.

"Just keep your cool alright?" Amiris winks at Tiberius, still listening to the conversation outside.

Tiberius scoffs. "Fine."

The two idly made their way down the hallway. Slowly, but carefully watching from a distance as Celestia was turning in for the night. Which means it was the perfect time for the two to ask about the situation to Luna.

"Umm.... Mom?" Amiris said, carefully awaiting her mother to respond.

Luna, raises the moon at its highest peak, before turning to her daughter.

"If your gonna ask about the problem, ask away, after all Tia is not here to ruin my mood for the night." Luna giggled in front of the two, she brushed her daughter's hair gently.

"Well, anyone wants to ask first?" Luna questions the two.

Amiris looks at Tiberius. "Well you're the one wanting to know." She mutters to her hot headed cousin.

Tiberius looks at Luna and sighs. "Why is Princess Twilight missing, why are the Elements of Harmony missing, who are these two ponies who are terrorizing Equestria again..." Tiberius pants from all the questions he asked, and he composed himself again.

"And why, are having so much trouble finding Princess Twilight!" He pants again.

"Whoa slow down. I can only answer one question at a time." Luna said, looking at the young draconequus.

Tiberius sighs, scratching the back of his head. He cleared his throat one more time and asked his first question. "Why is Aunt Twilight missing? Did she just magically exploded into a puff of pink smoke? Did she just ran off from her responsibilities?" He tilted his head slightly at Luna, his face filled with confusion.

"She didn't run away from her responsibilities. She was captured by an evil tyrant. Somepony who was before your time honestly." Luna said, trying her best to explain to the two.

"Who might be this "Tyrant" we speak off at the moment?" Asks Tiberius, his tone started getting a little serious, Luna's daughter nuzzled against her neck and she whimpered in fear a little.

"Is he powerful than any other monster you've fought?" Tiberius asks, his tone started to feel a bit scared but he kept a serious tone.

Luna held her daughter close. "Your mother and I have defeated him once before and that was over a thousand years ago. Then Twilight and her friends defend him once again in the Crystal Empire." Luna said.

"Well who is he mom?" Amiris asks, her tone slightly worried.

Luna sighed. "Sombra."

The both gasped, Amiris hugged her mother tightly and Tiberius taken aback from the name itself.

"As in King Sombra? I thought he was gone by the time Princess Twilight and her friends defended the Crystal Empire, and now she's with that tyrant!?" Tiberius was shocked by the overall outcome of his idea.

"What will Harmonia say about this..." Amiris whispers to her mother's ear, shaking a bit.

Luna wrapped a wing around her daughter and embraced her gently, Amiris stops shaking as Luna rubbed her back.

"Well, you see things didn't go well as expected during the time we confronted him again, and Twilight was with him, but this time different."

Tiberius shook from fear a little until he regains composure, he cleared his throat and asked, but was cut off by Amiris.

"Can't the friendship map locate Princess Twilight?" Amiris asked, her tone soft.

Luna scratched the back of her head, unsure of what to say to Tiberius, she came up with a lie to sugar coat the question.

"Well this Harmonia you speak of, is a relative of Twilight who has been searching for her, along with her friends." Luna giggled nervously, but cleared her throat to try and sugar coat her actions.

"Is everything okay mom?" Asked Amiris, her left eyebrow cocked high up.

"Yeah, is everything okay Aunt Luna?" Tiberius asked.

"....... Of-of course!" Luna said, she tried her best to not sound suspicious.

The two of them looked at each other suspicious like, before turning to Luna.

"Now, it's getting late you two should really be in bed by now." Luna said.

Amiris shook her head, her tone serious and commanding, she stood her ground and reasoned with Luna.

"Mom, we wanna know, please!" Amiris said, as she stood beside Tiberius, Tiberius looked at Luna with a look of pity as well, the two made puppy faces.

"Maybe in another time little ones, for now, you have to sleep, I have duties to attend to." Luna goes to the balcony, raising the moon slowly.

"They can not know especially Tiberius." Luna thought to herself.

Amiris sighed and walked slowly to their bedroom, Tiberius stood there, staring at Luna with a serious look.

"Princess Luna, with all due respect, just tell us the truth." Tiberius went up to Luna slowly, as he tried to reason with the Alicorn with gentle ease.

"Just tell us who Harmonia is, it's not gonna hurt or bite." He said, a calm tone in his voice.

Luna turned around, as she sighed, giving up the sugar coating and she goes down the steps of the Balcony.

"She's a Draconequus, like you." Luna said as she bit her lip, fear hinting in her mind, she goes near the young Draconequus, observing his reaction.

"Wait she's like me!?" He yelped, Amiris overheard him.

***

Sombra and Twilight walked the dark corners of the everfree, the two making conversations of an unknown ally joining them, but this ally had other means to attend to.

"We have someone joining us, in our little Facade, and of course he will benefit to our cause..." Sombra said, walking beside her evil spouse, Twilight looked at him with interest in her eyes.

"But, I want to surprise you to who he is..." Sombra said, smirking at Twilight with an evil grin.

"Oh come on, you can't tell me who it is? You were secretive with the last one. Now this one as well." Twilight said, slightly annoyed.

Sombra chuckled, brushing Twilight's mane, he smiled at Twilight, but this smile was compacted with anger.

"Well dear, I don't want to spoil your surprise, either way, you might be surprised to see another familiar face..." Sombra replied, his tone nonchalant and blunt to her wife.

Twilight scrunched her muzzle. "You know I hate surprises." She mutters.

Sombra fixed her mane, then moved away a little, still trotting beside one another, he spoke up, his tone a sarcastic.

"Well then, you'll love this one..." He laughed to himself as he moved along with Twilight, Sombra saw the clearing of the forest, headed somewhere out of the Everfree.

"It's almost time for the next phase of the plan...are you ready to shatter Equestria's pride..." He looked at his wife, with anger in his eyes, but he smiled.

"As always." Twilight smirks, as the two of them venture onward into the Everfree Forest.

Sombra kissed her wife's forehead, as he looked to the forest horizon, a dark cloud shrouded it, with red light striking each minute or an hour.

"No friendship will save them from the hell we will unleash upon their higher beings, let it be a King or a queen...Prince and or a Princess...Only two shall rule, a God and a Goddess..." He looked at Twilight, gesturing the Goddess before him.

"And you my dear, this is why I made you fit to rule...to become the Goddess this land deserves..." He said, smiling at Twilight.

Twilight smiles back, as the two venture onward to their desire location.

Whatever the surprise Sombra has planned, she hoped better be worth it.

***

The mid-morning dawn slowly breaking through. Tiberius sat quietly in the courtyard listening to the birds chirping and watched as the sun was rising over the Canterlot castle.

He breathed in and out, slow and steady as he was in deep thought. “You mean there are more draconequus like me and dad? I thought we were the only ones, but obviously not. Whoever this Harmonia is that Aunt Luna was telling me about, she is one to. Maybe mother knows something about her.” Tiberius silently thought to himself.

Celestia, calmly walked out into the Canterlot garden, taking in the calming light breeze of the morning dew, however. She didn’t notice that he son was setting on the bench a few inches away. “Mother?” Tiberius asks, cautiously approaching his mother.

Celestia jumped, slightly startled by her son, she turned to face him. “Oh! It’s only you. What are you doing up this early and out her by yourself?” She asks the tiny draconequus.

“I couldn’t sleep.” Tiberius mutters.

“If you were having a nightmare then you could have talked to your Aunt Luna about it.” Celestia explains, her tone calming.

“It’s nothing like that mother... “ Tiberius sighs. “I just have had a lot on my mind since last night and need to come out here and do some thinking.” He said.

Celestia walks over to her son, wrapping her snow white wing around her son. “Well, I’m here now. You know you can talk to me about anything, just know that I am always here to listen to you.” Celestia said, her tone remained soft and motherly.

Tiberius held in a deep breath of air before releasing it. “Here goes nothing.” He thought to himself.

He looks up at Celestia, who remained with a warm and gentle smile on her face. “Mother, who is Harmonia?”

Celestia eyes widen and her body went tense, Tiberius did not notice his mother’s expression and continued. “Aunt Luna was saying that there is another draconequus like dad and me, but that’s all she said. I was hoping if you knew more about her or have heard of her anyways.” Tiberius looks at his mother, now noticing her expression.

“Mother, are you okay? Your doing sorta of the same expression that Aunt Luna gave me last night. But do you know anything about her? Who Harmonia is?” Tiberius asks, once again.

This left Celestia’s mouth feeling like pennies, leaving her speechless. Tiberius asks again, this this being his last attempt to get any known information about this unknown draconequus out of her.

“Mother,” this time he asks carefully his tone remaining serious. “Who is Harmonia?”

Chapter 32

Chapter 32

Luna walks outside followed by her daughter Amaris, enjoying the breeze of the cool morning air. Tiberius walks over to his Aunt Luna, who smiles at her nephew. “Ah, good morning Tib-” Luna said, but Celestia cuts her off.

“You told him about her?” Celestia questions, her tone slightly strict. Luna’s eyes and expression went from calm to slightly worried. “I knew Tia was going to kill me.” She thought to herself.

“Well he was bound to find out one way or another.” Luna shot back, her tone defensive.

Tension can be sense between the two. “All I am wanting is a straight answer.” Said Tiberius, his tone blunt.

Luna and Celestia finally broke their eye contact from each other to turn their attention to the draconequus. “So you both are saying that this Harmonia character is another draconequus, like me?” Tiberius said, slowly coming to a conclusion.

Celestia and Luna, both looked at each other with worrisome expressions. Celestia was the first to sighs. “Yes, but-”

Celestia got cut of by Tiberius's laughter as if somepony was pulling a prank. “You must be joking.” Tiberius said, still continue to laugh.

Amaris and Luna looked at each other, before looking at Tiberius. “You have to be pulling my hoof.” Tiberius said, still laughing, but stopped short when he realized that nopony was laughing.

“Nopony is joking, Tibby.” Amaris said, giving Tiberius his old nickname that she used when she was only three.

Tiberius shook his head, trying his best to not believe anything that they were saying. “You’ve got to be lying.” He scoffs.

“If anypony was lying, don’t you think all of us would be laughing.” Amaris said, her tone serious.

Tiberius looked between the three, his expression soured slightly. “I think I have to go.” Tiberius said, his tone icy.

They watched as Tiberius runs off. “Tiberius wait!” Celestia calls out. Luna turned to her daughter. “Go after him, make sure he doesn’t do anything chaotic.” Luna said, giving her daughter orders.

Amaris nods, and follows after him.

***

“Why are we here?” Twilight said, her tone leaked with sarcasm and boredom.

“I just have to make a quick stop before we go to our final destination.” Sombra said, smirking at her.

Twilight rolled her eyes, slightly annoyed. “Well this pitstop better be worth it.” She said.

“Don’t worry it will be. Now, come with me.” Sombra said, putting his hoof out before him letting Twilight go first.

Twilight goes in, followed by Sombra. Both making idly chat as they were making their way to though the entrance. “Are you sure Stormy will be okay with the sitter we provided for her? You know what happened to the last several sitters she had.” Twilight said, her tone slightly worried.

Sombra chuckled at his wife’s worried expression. “You simply worry too much, dear. Besides, our daughter is nine now, she has control over her powers. I am pretty sure she’s was only three when she accidently sent her fourth sitter to Taurus.”

Twilight’s eyes widen at the thought. “And she’s probably still there.” Twilight explains, her tone mixed with worry and sarcasm.

Sombra only laughed at his wife’s sarcasm. “We are here.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant.

The two enter the dingy and dark cavern, the only source of light were made in the cracks of the tops and sides of the cave.

A voice, who was all too familiar echoes through the dark cave. “Ah Somba, back so soon?” she coos, her tone nonchalant.

“Yes, and I just came by to check over the plan once more.” Sombra explains.

“Don’t tell me you forgot already. Well to be fair you are over a thousand years old.” Chrysalis appear from the shadows, her eyes went from calm to curious and almost threatening like.

“What is she doing here?” Chrysalis asks, looking at the dark purple mare.

Sombra smirks at the changeling. “Don’t worry she’s with us.” Sombra said, his tone remained casual.

“So when you said wife you actual meant The Princess of Friendship?” Chrysalis said, slowly coming to terms with what was happening.

“Yeah, what’s it to you?” Twilight asks, her tone was snarky and rather unpleasant.

“A feisty one huh?” Chrysalis asks, her tone playful.

Twilight just rolled her eyes at Chrysalis obviously annoyed at her lame attempt to make conversation.

“Look, I don’t have time for a round of fifty questions, where on a schedule you know.” Twilight said, narrowing her eyes at the two.

“Of course.” Sombra said, nodding at his wife. “It was nice meeting you Chrysalis.” Sombra gave a smirk, before leaving to go to their next destination.

***

Twilight and Sombra made their way through the dingy cave, and back into the Everfree. “Now onto our next visitor.” Sombra said, going forth, Twilight following close by.

“Twilight…” A voice whispers, it was faint, but Twilight was the only one who could hear it, but she brushed off the thought thinking nothing of it.

“Twilight…” The voice whispers, this time more haunting than ever.

A sharp pain pierce through Twilight’s head, making her wince in pain. “Ahh!” she screams, her eyes squeezed shut.

Sombra stops and turns to Twilight, who notice that she was in pain. “Twilight, are you okay?” He asks, slightly concerned for the young mare.

Twilight eyes snapped open to reveal white iris.

***

“Why am I back here again?” snears Twilight, who was annoyed.

“It’s about time I got your attention.” snarks Evil Twilight.

“Well did you have to go that route?” Asks Twilight.

Evil Twilight just smirks at her. “What do you mean? Pain is fun!” the Evil Twilight teases.

Twilight just rolls her eyes. “Wait… it’s their suppose to be a good version of my subconscious?”

“Eh, she’s running late.” Shrugs Evil Twilight.

“Twilight, wait!” Twilight said, galloping before them.

“Oh look here’s goody-two-hooves now.” Evil Twilight said, her tone sarcastic.

“Don’t do this!” Twilight said.

“Wait, how can there be two of you? The last time I was here there was only you.” Twilight said, pointing a hoof at Evil Twilight.

“That’s because I was you. You know before you got corrupted, now I’m just buried in the back of your subconscious. Oh and I’m Twily by the way, nice to meet you. ” smiles Twily.

“But, Twilight please just listen to me.” Twily said, looking between the two, but mostly looking at Evil Twilight.

“Nah ah ah, you may call me Eclipsa for now on.” Smirks Evil Twilight.

“Seriously, it took you that long to come up with your own identity.” Twily asked, her tone deadpanned.

“Hey I was doing some planning.” snaps Eclipsa, her tone sarcastic.

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Please… don’t do this Eclipsa, let me show you that there is another way.” Twily begs, her tone pleading.

Twily grabs Twilight and Eclipsa hooves, as well as her own, she put them together, and from the three intimated a bright white light.

***

Twilight races back to Ponyville, obviously tired and out of breath. From an ahead of her was the Castle of Friendship. She smiled as it came into view. “I’m almost home.” she thought to herself.

She throws the castle door open and rushes inside, Her breath rapid and slightly out of breath. Twilight slides her back down the cold bare surface of the door. She sighs, as she caught her breath.

“Mom?!” Harmonia questions, her tone sounding surprised and shocked by her mother’s sudden appearance.

Twilight opens her eyes at the sound of where the voice was coming from, she was slightly startled when the creature came up and hugged her.

She carefully hugged the creature back. “It’s me, Harmonia remember your daughter.” Harmonia said, her voice was slightly excited.

“Of course I remember you, my little fuzzball.” Twilight said.

Three mares came into the hallway of the castle, slightly confused by Harmonia’s excitement.

“Harmonia what is it?” Tempest questions.

“Look Mom’s back!” Harmonia said, still excited.

Trixie, Starlight and Tempest all looked at the young purple alicorn with a bewilderment look on their faces. “Twilight?!” They said in unison.

Twilight looked from Harmonia to the mares, more specifically Starlight. “Hehe, I’m back!” Twilight announced, her tone slightly bashful.

Chapter 33

Chapter 33: The Princess Has Return, Behold!

The wave of the tides crashes against the rocks of Mt. Aries.

Tiberius watches as the waves carefully rolled in and out, making the atmosphere peaceful, or well as peaceful as it could be. A few hippogriffs where gathered in the distance.

Tiberius softly smiled at them, before turning his attention back to the tide or so he thought. “Tibby?” Amiris said, carefully approaching her hot-headed cousin.

Tiberius ears pricked up at the sound of his cousin. “What is it Amiris?” He asked, his tone remaining calm for some odd reason.

“I just wanted to come and check on you.” Amiris explained, her tone remaining soft.

“So in other words spy on me.” Tiberius said, giving his cousin a playful smile.

“It's not like that at all!” Amiris said, her tone defensive.

“Well it sure seems like it.” He said, his tone bitter.

Amaris said nothing. Tiberius sighed. “It’s just it seems like everypony in this family is hiding a secret and I am left in the dark just about everything.” Tiberius said, his tone melancholy.

Amiris ears downfolded, her expression softened. “Not everything in life is meant to be understood,” Amiris said, wrapping a hoof around Tiberius.

Tiberius sighed. “You know even if you are only half changeling, you are very wise for your age.” he said, giving his cousin a small smile.

Amiris gave her cousin a smug look. “Well if you ask me I took being wise after my mother.” she said, being proud of where she came from, family heritage wise.

Tiberius gave a small chuckle, before enveloping his cousin in the hug. “I mean what other things could our family be hiding from us?” Tiberius asks.

***

Harmonia blinks and looks around her surrounding, waves crashed and descended along the titles shoreline, she looks out into the open air breathing in slowly taking in the sites and sounds Mt. Aris had to offer. “Wrong location once again…” Harmonia mumbles to herself, her her face quickly went from annoyance to one of excitement.

Amaris- the young draconquus could hear a faint voice call from the distance as the creature ran up to hug her. “Hey! Harmonia it’s so good to see you!” Amaris beams.

Tiberius- who was left behind, looked from afar in the direction Amaris went and why the young changeling got excited for.

Her! Or so he thinks it’s her.

***

“So how have you been? Its feels like moons since we last hung out together!” Amaris said, her tone clearly excited about seeing her old friend.

“I’ve been alright.” Harmonia mutters.

Tiberius carefully approaches the girls. “Uh? Amaris? How do you know her?” Tiberius asked, as he lets his curiosity getting the best of him.

“Oh! We met awhile back when we were foals in The Everfree Forest! Let’s just say we liked to have died together! This is Harmonia.” Amaris said, introducing the draconequus to her cousin.

Tiberius eyes shrunk to the size of dimes, before going back to his normal size. “So you’re Harmonia.” Tiberius said, his voice laced with caution and suspicion.

“Uh… yeah- Wait! How do you know my name? And why do you look exactly like me?” Harmonia asks, baffled by the young draconequus appearance.

“Well this just got awkward…” Amaris thought to herself.

The two draconequus stared at each other, taking in their appearances. Harmonia quickly grabbed her stance without second thought, an orb of raspberry pink magic already in her paw. “What are you doing here changeling?” Harmonia sneers, she held a wild look in her eyes.

Tiberius looked at Harmonia with confusion before looking at Amaris, clearly confused at this young draconequus actions. Amaris cleared her throat. “Uh, Harmony? The changelings are reformed now.” Amaris mutters.

Tiberius lets out a haughty laugh. “Ha yeah! Besides I could have easily distinguished your magic like that.” Tiberius said, snapping his claw.

Harmonia looked bewildered at the moment. “O-okay, but if you’re not a changeling disguised as one of my species then who in the wide world of Equestria are you?” Harmonia questions.

“I could ask you the same thing.” Tiberius cocks back.

“Well this is awkward times two…” Amaris thought.

The changeling sighs aloud, clearly regretting what was about to come out of her mouth. “Harmonia. Tiberius. You two are brother and sister.” Amaris mutters the last part, but the two still caught on.

“What?!” They said in unison.

***

“But how is that even possible? We look nothing alike.” Tiberius said.

“You two may not fully look alike, but you are still siblings.” Amaris explains.

“Half. Half-siblings.” Tiberius said, his eyes narrowed at Harmonia.

“Wait- how comes mom has never told me about having a brother?” Harmonia mutters to herself, but Amaris still overheard.

“You actually was born way before him, love.” Amaris said.

Tiberius scoffs. “This is ridiculous.” he mutters to himself.

“You two are more similar than you think, Tibby. Sisi ni Sawa!” Amaris coos, as she smirks at the two.

“Uh, Amaris can you speak English I have no idea what that even means.” Tiberius said, slightly frustrated by his cousin’s weird motto.

“She’s saying we’re the same.” Harmonia spoke up.

Tiberius scoffs. “Uh no. I don’t think so.”

***

The next morning, Twilight was surrounded by her friends and family. “We are so glad to have ya back, Twilight. Everypony here, really missed you.” Applejack said, smiling at the purple alicorn.

“Especially Harmonia.” Rarity said, ruffling her niece's mane.

Harmonia hugs her mother’s hoof tighter than ever, not ever wanting to let her go.

“How are you even here?” Tempest asks, her tone still in disbelief.

“I guess I’m just stronger than some of you ponies underestimated.” Twilight said, her tone nonchalant.

Shining chuckles. “I guess I underestimated you just a tad.” he said, his tone sounding sheepish.

“Well it really is great to have you back, darling.” Rarity said, her voice calm.

“It’s great to be back! I have honestly missed you all.” Twilight said.

“You know what this afternoon should call for?” Pinkie Pie said, beaming.

“A party?” Rainbow Dash asks.

“A party!” Pinkie Pie said, throwing confetti in the air. “Twilight! We are going to throw you the biggest party known to ponykind to celebrate your return!” Pinkie Pie said, her tone full of pep.

“Oh, Pinkie you don’t have to do that, really.” Twilight said, her voice remaining humble.

“Nonsense! The Princess of Friendship deserves only the best. And I will not take no as your answer.” Pinkie said.

“Well, if you would like to, then go ahead.” Twilight said, giving her bubbly friend approval.

Pinkie Pie beams and bounces away. “It really is great to have you back Twilight. You have a lot of catching up on.” Tempest said.

“Yeah, for example in three weeks is my coordination! And I can really use some advice.” Harmonia explains.

Twilight smiles down at her daughter. “Of course I’ll help you.” Her tone was soft, and motherly like.

“I just hope this coordination will go well.” Harmonia said.

“I think it will be great! Besides what’s the worst that can happen?” Twilight asks.

***

The party outside, was in full swing, nearly half the town in Ponyville, her students from The School of Friendship, and ponies from The Crystal Empire and Canterlot was all gathered in Ponyville for the princess’s return.

Everypony was mingling and music was pouring from the speakers of DJ-Pon3 turntable. “Okay everypony please put your hooves together for the return of the beloved Princess of Friendship, Twilight Sparkle!” Pinkie announces.

A thunderous applause of hooves filled the air. Twilight smiled warmly at the adoring crowd. “Thank you everypony for welcoming me all back with open hooves! It is wonderful to see the love and support that you all have for me! Thank you... to my friends for never losing hope. And I especially want to thank my daughter for never losing faith in my return! Now please everypony feel free to enjoy the rest of this wonderful party!” Twilight said, she said, she moves away from the crowd, not always liking being the center of attention.

“Pinkie! This party you threw was wonderful! You have really outdone yourself this time!” Twilight said, beaming at her bubbly friend.

“Awe, it was no biggie, really!” Pinkie Pie said, proud of her own accomplishment.

“Aunt Twilight!” Flurry Heart beams, she raced towards her aunt.

“Flurry!” Twilight said, smiling as her niece hugged her.

“I have really missed you.” Flurry said.

“I’ve missed you too.” Twilight said, enveloping her niece in a hug.

“But I’m so glad to see that you are back.” Flurry said.

“That makes both of us!” Spike said, smiling at her.

A claw taps the back of Twilight’s shoulder, Twilight turns around to come face to face with Discord and Celestia.

“Twilight, do you think we can talk?” Discord asks.

“Uh… sure Discord.” Twilight said, unsure of where this was heading.

Twilight and Discord go to the far end of the party where they were both alone. “Listen, Twilight I am so sorry, for everything I have caused.” He said, his tone sounding sorrowful.

Twilight looked at him slightly confused, but Discord continue. “It hurts to know that I have put you in so much pain and I will never forgive myself for what I have done to you. I honestly don’t blame you if you don’t give me a second chance at all.” Discord said.

“Discord…” Twilight said, but Discord didn’t even give her a chance to speak.

“I am happy with Celestia, I will admit it, but you will always and forever will be my first love.” Discord said.

“You may not forgive me today or even twenty moons from now, but I just wanted to tell you how I have been feeling and that I am ashamed for my actions.” Discord said.

He then notices a small crowd of fan-ponies from the distance who were eagerly to meet The Princess of Friendship.

“I won’t keep you from your party any longer, now if you will excuse me I have to go find Harmonia.” Discord said, in a flash he left.

***

The party winded down to and end, the backyard a complete mess, but Twilight decided to clean the mess up tomorrow.

She makes her way to her room, exhausted and tired. Which only left Starlight and Tempest, awaken. “I think I am going to turn in for the night. Goodnight girls!” Twilight said, she shuts her bedroom door her.

But before going to bed, Twilight goes to her desk. She pulls out a notebook and quill, making a very specific note to herself.

She smiled at the few words she had wrote down, even though it was only a few words she knew that it had to work.

Author's Note

Edited/Revised: January 29, 2020

Chapter 34

Chapter 34

Twilight smiles as her daughter was excitingly getting ready for her big day which was only a week away.

“You remember everything I taught you, right?” Twilight asks, her tone calm and friendly.

“Of course I have! Plus in addition Flurry has been helping me, so I hope I will do okay.” Harmonia explains.

“Are you kidding? You will do wonderful!” Twilight beams.

Twilight gives her daughter a reassuring hug. “Now come on, let’s practice your speech one more time.”

Harmonia nods and grabs the flashcards that she has been using for the past few weeks.

Going over her speech once more. “Thank you all, for coming to celebrate my coordination, I will be honest I wouldn’t be standing here today without the help of my family and dearly beloved friends-”

***

From afar came four pairs of eyes, one belonging to Kunzite and another pair belong to Phoenix.

“There’s something fishy going on here, and I’m not liking it one bit.” Phoenix said, her eyes narrowed in Twilight and Harmonia’s direction.

Kunzite, who strangely had popcorn for some reason, asks with a mouthful. “What are you talking about?”

Phoenix rolls her eyes. “I’m talking about Aunt Twilight. Something’s not right, but I can’t seem to put my finge- er I mean hoof on it.” Phoenix said, clearly forgetting for a moment that she was a pegasus instead of human.

Kunzite watches Twilight’s every move, from the way she was reacting to her daughter, right down to her magical aura, which has always the same shade of magenta. “She looks like regular old Princess Twilight to me.” Kunzite said, his tone blunt.

“Look, I have my theories and you have yours.” Phoenix said, her tone a tad harsh than attended to be.

“But I know something is up.” she mutters mostly to herself, however Kunzite still managed to overhear the pegasus.
“You come from the Other Side- which if you ask me seems to be a non-magical place. Yet, you assume that something dangerous is going on here, which from the looks of it- it just Twilight helping Harmonia for her upcoming coordination speech that is a week from now.” Kunzite explains.

Phoenix sighs, obviously getting nowhere with her statement. She then turns her attention back to Twilight, before she quickly snaps her attention back to Kunzite. “D-Did you just call the world where I came from non-magical? Why I orta-” Phoenix said, but got cut off by another voice in the room.

“Hey guys!” Confetti Pop beams.

Kunzite and Phoenix, both startled, jump and slightly screamed.

“Uh, what are you two doing?” Mystic asks, eyeing the two of them. Her tone was suspects of the pair.

“Sweet Celestia! Are you trying to give us a heart attack?” Kunzite snaps.

Mystic rolls her eyes. “Are you two spying on Princess Twilight?” Mystic asks, giving the two a smirk.

“No…” Kunzite said, his tone sightly wavering.

“D-Don’t you have somewhere to be? Besides where is your brother?” Phoenix asks, slightly annoyed with Mystic’s presents at the moment.

“Eh, he’s hanging with the boys.” Mystic said, shrugging off the thought of her brother.

Phoenix sighs, and turned back to pay attention to Twilight and Harmonia.

An idea came to her, and she turned back to Kunzite. “Come with me!” The pegasus said, her voice rather demanding.

“Where are we going?” He asks, slightly startled by his friends sudden reaction. He looked down to notice that she had grabbed his claw and was already dragging him to the exist.

“Yeah where are you two going anyways?” Confetti Pop wonders.

Without a word, the amber orange pegasus and blue dragon leaves the room, heading to their desire location.

Mystic and Confetti watch, their expressions remained slightly confused.

***

Deep within the caves of the Crystal Mountain, with held a small alicorn, she had a dark black short mane and tail with two streaks: one of purple and another of pink going through her mane and tail. Her eyes shown red iris, as her fur was similar to her mothers.

“I’m bored,” wails the small alicorn. She was at least nine and at her age, she was always managed to somehow get bored.

“Princess, your father will be back soon. In the meantime, please be patient.” The Crystal unicorn said, trying to keep her voice calm.

Stormy scoffed. “Patient? Honestly, have you met me?” Her tone leaking sarcasm.

The maid was slightly speechless, by this young mares snarky remarks. “Why I've never-”

“Hey! You wanna play a game?” Stormy asks.

This caught the royal foal-sitter off guard. “Uh, sure. What game did you have in mind your highness.” She asks, her tone curious.

Stormy looks at the foal-sitter, a spark of mischief was in her eyes as a small wicked grin made its way onto her lips.

“Oh, you'll see.” She coos, still flashing the foal-sitter her smile.

However the innocent foal-sitter just did not know what she had just gotten herself into.

***

Nopony knew that she was back, at least the citizens of Ponyville hasn't.

Twilight decided to keep her return underwraps, until her daughter's big day. She had a big announcement to tell everypony, besides the fact that she has returned however.

“Hey, Starlight? Do you think you could help me with a few of Harmonia's decorations?” Twilight asks.

“Sure! What all do you need done exactly?” Starlight asks, curious.

“Just a few decorations here and there. I have just about everything ready for next week.” Twilight explains.

“Next week? But I thought her coordination was two weeks from now?” Starlight asks, her tone was slightly confused.

Twilight giggles. “You have obviously been too occupied with your studies.” she said, her tone casual.

“Maybe.” Starlight mutters to herself.

“Why could you have not asked Pinkie Pie to help?” Starlight asks.

“Well she was occupied with the twins, so I didn’t want to bother her. Now come on, Starlight. I have the decorates and everything set up for the after party in this room right here.” Twilight said, leading Starlight into a spare room of the castle.

"Twilight? Why did you shut the door?" Starlight asks.

"The number one rule to party planning is.... It's no fun if somepony ruins the surprise and trust me I read Pinkie Pie's book about it." Twilight said.

Starlight turned around, sure enough the decorations were there. The two started to make idly conversation as the door shuts behind the two, not wishing for Harmonia to see the surprise.

Chapter 35

Chapter 35

Twilight helps Starlight hang up the decorations for the after party of Harmonia's coordination.

“You know I can't believe Harmonia's coordination next week, my how time flies.” Starlight said, hanging up a few of the decorations that were in Twilight's box.

“Indeed!” Twilight said, her voice a bit too cheerful.

“Now about how time flies.” Twilight coos, her horn slowly igniting.

Harmonia who was walking by, stopped when she heard her mother and Aunt Starlight's voices through the doorway.

She carefully knocks on the door. “Mom? Aunt Starlight? Is everything okay in there?” The draconequus asks, her voice laced with worry for the two ponies she cared so deeply about.

Twilight stopped igniting her horn. “Everything is okay sweetheart! Just don't come in this room until I say you can.” Her voice remaining sweet.

Starlight looked between the door and Twilight. “Everything is okay sweetie! Just listen to your mother.”

Harmonia thought to herself for a moment, before shaking off the feeling. “Okay, just thought you know I'd check in.” she said, trying to make her voice remain calm instead of worry.

Both Twilight and Starlight waited til the draconequus was gone, hearing her footsteps faintly disappear.

Starlight then turns back to Twilight, a confusion tone laced into her voice. “Twilight? Are you sure you're okay?” She asks worried for her friend.

“I'm fine, just a tad stressed because next week is a really big day. Now, let's hurry and finish these decorations before Harmonia comes back.” Twilight explains, spreading a vile of glitter across the purple plastic tablecloth.

***

Phoenix and Kunzite enter Twilight's Friendship room, where Twilight's Friendship map stood.

Phoenix and Kunzite careful scan the premises before entering. “What are we even doing here? You're going to get us caught!” Kunzite said, his tone low and laced with worry.

“If my hunch is correct and that isn't Princess Twilight then-” Phoenix said, but was cut off by a rather startling voice.

“What are you two doing in here?” Tempest asked.

The pair jumped. “I- uh- we-” Kunzite said, stumbling over his words.

Phoenix slightly annoyed by her friends lack of social skills, rolled her eyes. “Please let us explain.” Phoenix said, her tone rather pleading.

“Nopony is allowed to enter this room, under any circumstances. Unless you are The Princess of Friendship, her daughter or a part of The Element Barriers then I suggest you leave.” Tempest explains, her tone rather strict.

“But you don't understand-” Phoenix said, but fails to try to communicate with the guard.

“Leave. Now.” Tempest said, her tone rather low and dangerously threatening.

Tempest takes the pair out of the room, and shuts the door in their faces.

Phoenix huffs. “That was our only way! I can't believe Princess Twilight's royal guard kicked us out…. I thought she was friendlier?” the pegasus complains.

Kunzite thinks to himself for a moment. “That's not the only way, here come with me.” Kunzite said, grabbing the pegasus hoof, helping her off the ground from her slouching position.

“Where are we going?” Phoenix asks.

But Kunzite was already ahead of her. “Okay fine! Don't tell me.” She mutters, before taking off to catch up with the dragon.

***

A faint creature lies ahead of the two pony figures headed towards it, a creature wearing a hood hiding his own identity, breathing weakly in the smoky atmosphere, his eyes glaring at the two headed towards him.

"I see you've took yourself into the extent of death old friend...how are we today..." Sombra went near the cell, where the creature was held, the creature went close, speaking deeply with anger in his tone.

"And who are you with, Sombra..." The creature asks.

Sombra's eyes widened. "Aren't you glad to see a familiar face..." coos Twilight, her voice icy.

Sombra moved aside, revealing his evil spouse, her grin reeve evil intentions. “Princess Twilight Sparkle, is that you?” The creature asks.

“The one and only Tirek.” Twilight said, flashing a wicked smile at the centaur.

“And I have a proposal for you.” Twilight smiles coyote-like at him.

“...... I’m listening.” Tirek said, his tone sounding amused and concerned to know more.

“I am going to give you very specific instructions, so easy and simple to follow that even my own daughter can understand them, and she’s nine.” Twilight explains, her tone rather sassy.

“You going to tell us the plan or are you just going to keep on teasing?” Tirek asks.

“We will release you on one condition.” Twilight explains, still teasing the centaur.

Cerberus, the three-headed guard dog, who was guarding the gate, growled at Twilight.

“Oh, shut up.” Sombra mutters, as he blasts Cerberus with a sleeping spell.

The large guard dog, falls into a deep slumber.

“Now, where was I? Oh yes, we will release you on one condition. I-” Twilight stated, but Sombra cuts her off.

“We,” he stated.

Twilight huffs. “We need you to go to Canterlot and steal Princess Celestia’s powers.” she said, smirking at the centaur.

“How am I supposed to get there exactly?” Tirek asks, his tone rather blunt.

“Uh, the key…” Sombra said, he levitated the key to the keyhole, unlocking the chamber.

“Now do exactly as I said.” Twilight said, her teeth bared.

With her horn ignited, Twilight then teleported Tirek to Canterlot.

***

Except he was teleported in the alley, behind the Canterlot castle.

Tirek sighs. “She seriously could not have just consider poofing me inside?” He thought to himself.

Tirek scans the brick building of the exterior, noticing that there was a backdoor, but it was locked and the only access was the two sisters.

Tirek, who didn't have time for childish games, blasted the security with what little magic he had.

As if on cue, the door opens letting him inside.

“This place honestly hasn't changed since I last tried to steal their magic.” Tirek thought to himself, while wandering the empty hallways for a moment before coming upon the throne room of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.

“Hault! Who goes there?” One of Celestia's royal guards calls out.

“I really don't have time for this.” He mutters, but mostly to himself.

Tirek did not feel like having the energy or time to drain somepony like them of their magic, he came for one magic and one magic only.

Tirek’s eyes glowed, causing fear within the guards who were now trembling in fear.

“Cowards.” He smirks to himself, before entering the throne room.

*

Celestia looked over her long to-do list, without looking up she could sense somepony’s presence.

“Yes, how may I help you?” Celestia asks, her tone calm.

“Actually, you can help me.” The voice said.

That voice made Celestia's blood turn cold. She dropped her to-do list and looked at the creature, her eyes wide and struck with fear.

“Tirek! How in Equestria did you manage to escape Tautrus?” Celestia asks, her tone shocked.

“Let's just say I had some help.” Tirek explains, smirking at her.

“Now, I'm taking what should have been mine a thousand years ago.” Tirek said, his tone was rather threatening as his eyes glowed yellow.

Celestia, tries to blast the centatur with her magic, but fails as the centatur devoured her mediocre size of light.

He then lifts her into his aura, he slowly devours her magic as she screams in pain.

Luna, who was with Tibarus, Flurry Heart, and Cadence overhears cries of pain, coming from the throne room. “Stay here! Cadence come with me!” Luna demand.

Both alicorns race inside, but stop once they saw the commotion.

“Tirek! Celestia!” Luna said, her tone sounding rather surprising.

“I know Princess Twilight said, only Celestia's magic, but this offer is just too easy to resist.” Terik thought to himself.

“Oh good! A four for one special! This shall be fun.” Tirek said.

His eyes glowed at the four presented before him: Luna, Cadence, Flurry Heart and Tibarus.

“Four for one?” Cadence mutters to herself, she turned around to the the kids had disobeyed Luna's orders.

“Kids! Didn't Luna tell you two to stay put!” Cadence asks, her tone rather serious.

“But where's the fun in that?” Tibarus questions.

Flurry facehoofs herself, knowing that it was not a time to be joking.

“We wanted to help mom!” Flurry Heart, explains.

“With an Alicorn as powerful as you four plus a draconequus, I know someone who would be satisfied.” Tirek said, a satisfying smirk etched upon his lips.

His eyes glowing. “Now let's have some fun. Shall we?”

3 days later

“Mother, why can't we go to Ponyville? I'm bored!” complains Stormy.

“We are waiting on an old friend, so you have to be patient.” Twilight said, her voice rather calm and icy as she looks out the window.

“Besides, what happen to your foal-sitter while we were gone?” Twilight asks.

“Well about that you see, we decided to play a game and I may or may not have either obliterated her or sent her to Taturus.” The young alicorn said.

Sombra comes through softly chuckling at his daughter's rather feisty personality, as he ruffles her mane. “Like mother like daughter.” Sombra said, smiling between the two.

“Oh come on, when have I ever obliterated somepony or sent them to another dimension?” Twilight asks, her tone rather teasing.

Sombra gave a low laugh. “Oh come on dear, you have went crazy a couple of times yourself. I find rather attractive.” He teases.

He then gives Twilight a kiss, before Midnight gags broke them apart.

“Wait, Mother… you’ve went crazy before to? Now that's something I definitely want to see.” Stormy said.

“Oh no it isn't.” Twilight said.

“Come on mother, please?” Stormy said, give Twilight her wide eyed puppy dog eyes.

Twilight groans. “You’re lucky you're cute.But just a heads up, these are definitely not some of my proudest moments.” She warns.

Sombra walks over to a crystal wall, making images appear before them of Twilight when she was in her “insane moments” kind of like a movie playing before them.

Stormy giggles. “See, I told you.” Twilight said, her tone rather blunt.

“Like I said, it was attractive then and it is still attractive now.” Sombra said, his voice rather flirtatious.

He gave Twilight another kiss, then time a bit more longer, until somepony else interrupts them.

“I told you, I didn't want-” Sombra said, but broke away once he notice who it was.

“Am I interrupting anything important?” He asks.

“Tirek, what took you so long?” Twilight asks, her tone slightly inpatient.

“Let's just say that time had slipped away.” He smirks.

“Wow! Mr. Tirek your really huge!” Midnight said, amazing at the ever large creature.

Tirek smirks down at the little one. “Why thank you, young one. Now no one can stop us.” He said, his voice sounding rather boastful and victorious.

“Us?” Twilight spats, her expression looked like someone had struck the wrong nerve.

“Di- Did I say something wrong your highness?” Tirek asks.

Twilight slowly breathed in and out, trying to calm herself. “Sombra, take Stormy into the bedroom.” She said, her tone strangely calm.

“But, dear-” Sombra said.

“Now!” Twilight yells, as thunder strikes from behind her.

Sombra's eyes widen. “Come on, Stormy! Let's go play a game.”

“But, father I want to stay. This is the only action I'll ever seem to get out of today.” Stormy complains.

“Now Stormy.” Sombra said, his tone rather serious.

“Fine.” She mumbles.

Sombra then, teleports the two to The Crystal Empire.

Twilight then turns her attention back to Tirek she gave a low laughter, which was dark, sinister and icy.

“Who said anything about you keeping the power for yourself?” sneers Twilight.

Tirek looks at the mare confused. “Lucky for you I happen to know a spell or two that can drain the power right out of you!” she said, her tone bitter and icy.

Without a warning, Tirek found himself wrapped in Twilight's dark aura.

Mere seconds later, there was a bright flash of white light and Tirek finding himself back in the caves of Taurus.

*

Twilight then teleports her daughter and husband back into the caves.

“Mother, your mane is all sparkly and flowing.” Midnight said, adoring her mother's new mane.

“It is, isn’t it? Now, who want to go on a road trip to Canterlot?” She smirks, her tone rather dark and mysterious.

Chapter 36

Chapter 36

Luna, Cadence, Celestia, Flurry and Tiberius all lay on the soft carpet of the throne room, conscious. Luna, was the first pony to stir from her conscious state.

She groans for a moment, wincing in pain. “My head,” Luna mutters to herself.

Her eyes snap open, she realizes that night has had already fallen upon Canterlot and the rest of Equestria. The moon shining through the stain glass windows and casted the ponies shadows along the carpet. Luna slowly gets to her hooves and looks at where she was previously laying, and seeing that she was not alone.

“Sister?” Luna calls out, but Celestia still remained conscious.

“Cadence, Flurry Heart?” Luna asks, calling out to the other two alicorns.

Neither of them answered.

Another groan could be heard from the other side of the throne room. “Tiberius?” Luna asks.

“Aunt Luna? What happened?” He asks, his tone slightly raspy. His whole body ached and he felt overwhelmingly tired.

Three more groans could be heard throughout the room, signaling that the three alicorns were awaking from their own conscious state.

“Does anypony remember what happened?” Flurry Heart asks.

“The last thing I remember was yelling at you two before-” Cadence explains, but Celestia interrupts the pink alicorn.

“Tierk! Tierk was the one who drained our powers.” Celestia said, coming to the sudden realization.

“So would that explain why Aunt Luna and Mother’s mane looks limp. Because you have no magic?” Tiberius asks, looking at their manes.

Their manes were dull and limp, which contained, no flowing movement or sparkles throughout their manes.

“But if we have no magic, then that means-” Flurry Heart said.

“Did you see what I did? Look Mom! I raised the moon!” Amaris announced, her tone filled with pride.

But once she saw the scene before her. Amaris expression and mood shifted and changed into one full of worry. “Mom? What’s wrong? What’s going on?” Amaris asks, her expression worrisome, but her tone confused.

“Are you telling me that you heard none of the commotion that went on in here earlier?” Tiberius asks, his tone sarcastic.

Amaris blushes, slightly embarrassed. “Hehe, uh heavy sleeper?” She admits, her cheeks flushed pink.

“She gets that from you, you know.” Celestia said, her tone was teasing as her facial expression held a smirk all to knowing.

“Amaris, where’s your Uncle Discord?” Luna asks.

Amaris shrugs. “I’m not sure, haven’t seen-”

In a flash of bright light Discord appears. “You ranged?” He asks, but stops and notices the chaos that he just snapped in on.

“Woah! What happened to you five?” Discord questions.

“Tierk happened, that’s what.” Flurry Heart explained.

“How did Tierk manage to escape exactly?” Discord asks.

“I’m not sure, but however he did I fear that the worst is yet to come.” Luna said, her expression fearful.

***

“What do you mean my coordination is postponed?” Harmonia asks, looking at the scroll that Spike was holding.

Spike scanned over the letter. “It doesn’t say, kiddo.” He said, looking back over the letter once more.

“I have waited for my whole life, correction 14 ½ years of my whole life for my coordination to happen and now it is getting postponed without no explanation as to why.” Harmonia rants.

Spike looked at her with a sad expression. “I’m sorry, Harmonia I know your day was suppose to be special today.” Sadness was hinted in the dragon’s voice.

“Oh there is no need to be sorry. Because we are going to have my coordination one way or another, all of Equestria is going to be there! And I am not letting all of Mom and Aunt Starlight’s hard work go to waste!” Harmonia sadi, her tone rather determined and bold.

“But Celestia said-” Spike said, trying his best to reason with the young draconequus, but sadly she wasn’t taking no for an answer.

“We are having my coordination today and that’s final!” Harmonia stomped her hoof to the ground, her voice rather stern.

Spike sighed, knowing that their was no way he could talk her out of this now. “You are your mother’s daughter, alright. You both can be stubborn as mules sometimes.” He said.

Harmonia giggles. “Now we have less than ten hours before my coordination is beings! And I need to find the perfect dress before my coordination.” she explains.

“Why not ask Rarity to make you one? She is a fashion designer after all.” Spike said.

“Eh, I'll see what they have at one of the local shops. Maybe I can ask the girls if they would like to join.” Harmonia said, thinking out loud.

“Alright! Just be back before two fifteen.” Spike calls out.

Harmonia nods and poofs out of the room.

***

The door to the shop of the clothing store, tingled as the girls enter the store. “Welcome to Thread & Mend! How may I help you?” A zebra of black and white stripes, comes out from around the corner.

“Ah! You must be the daughter of Twilight and Discord. My name is Zecora it's a pleasure to meet you.” Zecora said, her tone rather pleased to see the young draconequus.

“Zecora? My mother has told me about you, but if you do herbs and special treatments, then why are you running a clothing shop in Everfree Forest?” Harmonia asks.

“Yeah, in a place where hardly anypony knows about it.” Ophelia interjects.

“I think this little pink mare can put your jumbling questions at ease.” Zecora said, giving a gentle smile at Confetti Pop.

Everyone turned to look at the mare.

“How did you even know about this shop anyways, Confetti Pop?” Honey Crisp asks, the pink earth pony.

“I actually met her son and daughter a few weeks back! They are the ones who told me about this shop and suggested that I visited.” Confetti Pop beams.

“Well where are they now?” Harmonica wonders.

“Oh! They are around here somewhere I assure, but please stay awhile check out some of the dresses on this isle.” Zecora said, walking down an isle of dresses.

The girls follow. “No wonder nopony isn't wearing anything.” Ophelia said, in a rather hushed tone.

“Sh! Ophelia that's rude of you.” Honey Crisp said, her tone rather quiet.

“Well it's the truth, darling.” She mutters.

Harmonia and the girls eye the row of tribal printed dresses and skirts.

“Your style is very…. Unique, Mrs. Zecora.” Ophelia said, trying her best to stay positive.

“I see that you are busy, please just walk over to the register once you are ready.” Zecora said, with that she walks away.

Harmonia sighs, quietly looking at her options. Ophelia notices the troublesome look held on the draconequus, and walks over to her.

She lays a sympathetic paw on her friends shoulder. “Darling, are you okay?” She asks, her tone gentle.

“I'm fine…. I'm just thinking about my coordination that is in a few hours. I just feel like once I'm crowned what if I am a terrible princess? I mean I may be The Princess of Friendship’s daughter, but I also belong to Lord of Chaos. I mean what if I get nervous and freeze up during my speech?” Harmonia said, ranting to the feline.

Ophelia just smiles at her, her tone gentle. “You won't. I'm going to tell you something, that my mother told me awhile back whenever I was feeling scared or nervous. I may be the Element of Generosity, but that doesn't mean I have to be generous to everyone and I maybe the daughter of con-cat, but that doesn't mean I flirt and con with everyone I see.”

“But you just con me out of my bits three weeks ago.” Harmonia mutters, making a blunt statement. Her tone rather small and innocent like.

Ophelia sighs and rolls her eyes. “That's not the point here. The point is you may have both parents genes within you, but that doesn't always mean you have to follow in either of their hooves steps. You can make your own path, but whatever path you choose is up to you.”

Harmonia then smiles at her friend. “Thanks for the advice, Lia.”

“Anytime.” Ophelia said.

Ophelia and Harmonia gazes at the display before them. “You know, my mother is a fashion designer. I'm sure she has something more in your style.” Ophelia said, her paws ran across the fabric and she looks back at Harmonia.

“Are you sure she wouldn't mind? I mean it being last and all.” Harmonia said, her tone bashful.

“I'm sure she wouldn't mind! She works well under pressure….. I think.” Ophelia said.

Zecora walks over to the draconequus and feline. “If you two have found something you like then go ahead and buy.” she said, looking at the two.

Harmonia and Ophelia both look at each other, wondering how to tell the zebra that they wasn't really impressed with what they saw all that much.

“You're dresses are very…” Ophelia said, trying to figure out the right word to say.

“Distinctive!” Harmonia said, thinking of a word on the spot.

“Yes! Distinctive.” Ophelia said.

“But?” Zecora said, her brow arched.

The girls remained quite. “If this isn't within your style, you can always go to Rarity who is always in style.” Zecora said, giving them a small smile.

“Are you sure?” Harmonia asks, fearing that she may have hurt the zebra's feelings.

“Of course! Now go.” Zecora said.

***

“My mom is currently at her Boutique in Manehattan.” Ophelia said.

“Well, we can teleport there!” Harmonia said, she was about to snap her paw, when Honey Crisp stopped her.

“Wait. don’t you think we would end up in another place like for example: The Dragon Lands? Remember when you accidentally teleported Confetti Pop to Yakyakistan?” Honey Crisp said, slightly nervous by her friend’s magical capability.

“Yeah that was super fun!” Confetti Pop beams.

“And that was five years ago when that happen, I was trying to teleport her to Sugar Cube Corner. Besides I’ve gotten better with my magic.” Harmonia explains. “Now come on we are burning daylight.”

“Its only 11:30.” HoneyCrisp said.

“What are you a clock?” Harmonia said, her tone was humorous. She snaps her paw, in order to teleport herself and the girls inside Rarity’s boutique.

A bright flash illuminates inside of Rarity’s store. “See told you were worried for nothing.” Confetti said.

Rarity was taking orders from a customer. The girls watched as she greeted the customer goodbye. “Thank you for shopping at Rarity 4 You! Please come again.” she said.

She then turned back to attend to her business, she closes her eyes humming a tune to herself as she sews a few details on a dress she was making.

Rarity was known for her daughter sneak attacks, so she even knew when Ophelia was in the room- or as Rarity liked to call it “have eyes in the back of her head”.

“Hello, Ophelia dear.” She went back to humming, but stopped short after what she just said. She turned around and notice that her daughter was not alone. “W-what are you girls doing here?” She asks, her tone in disbelief.

“Dress shopping!” Beams Confetti Pop.

“Aunt Rarity, do you think you could make me a dress for my coordination?” Harmonia asks.

“We went to Zecora’s, a shop that she recently started and all of her dresses were too triable looking.” Ophelia explained.

“A dress? You came all the way to Manehatten for a dress.” Rarity said, her tone unamusing.

“Uh… yes?” Harmonia said, slightly confused by her aunt’s change in tone.

Rarity’s face lit up with amusement. “Well why didn’t you come to me sooner, darling? But it’s funny that you just mentioned about a dress, I actually have plenty here that you can choose from. Go find one that you like.”

Rarity ushers her niece off to a changing room, giving her various dresses to try on.

The first one was yellow with gold trimming around the waistline and at the end of the dress, the sleeves where poofy and see through, the whole dress glittered and sparkled. Her mane was in a elegant bun.

“Too yellow.” Ophelia said.

“Plus you look like you belong in a fairy tale called Beauty and The Beast.” Confetti Pop said.

The girls look at her in confusion. “Confetti… whatever are you going on about?” Honey Crisp asked.

Confetti Pop blinked. “Whoops, wrong fairy tale.” she said, her tone giggly.

Harmonia decided to not question her quirky friends antics and goes back into the changing room, only to reappear in another dress.

The second dress, was an icy blue, a long train that was translucent and see through the dresses silky exterior and the sleeves were long and see through. Her mane was in a fishtail braid.

Confetti Pop giggled. “Are you ready to let it go at your coordination ceremony, tonight? Or are you going to keep giving me the icy look?” Confetti Pop continues to giggle at her own joke.

Harmonia rolled her eyes. “You know if you wasn’t my best friend and if looks could kill you would be frozen by now.” the young draconequus said, slightly playing on to Confetti Pop’s little game.

Confetti giggles. “Good one, Harmony.”

Harmonia sighs and goes back into the changing room trying on the third dress. “Uh… I don’t think this is a dress.” she said, carefully coming out of the dressing room.

She was in a pair of baggy baby blue genie like pants and a top, its sleeves short and halfway off her shoulder. Her mane in a bubble braid, her mane held a headpiece at the top.

“Uhh….” Harmonia said, slightly speechless.

“Hey, at least you look like a genie.” Confetti Pop giggles.

“Are you going to do that every time she tries on a new dress?” Ophelia asks, slightly annoyed.

“Well I can’t help it if the author is a Disney fan.” Confetti said, still giggling.

“You know what? I’m just going to pretend what you said made sense.” Ophelia said, her tone deadpanned.

Harmonia takes off the outfit, with a snap of her paw. “This is hopeless.” Harmonia mutters, slouching a bit.

Rarity walks over to the girls. “I can’t help, but see that you are having a bit of trouble find the dress of your dreams, but I actually just finished this dress and I think you will like what you see.” Rarity hands over a black bag with the hanger sticking out of the top was a hanger.

Harmonia grabs the dress and goes back inside, she emerges once again. This time in a beautiful dress of silver, light grey, tone of sparkles creating an ombre effect. The dress was simply beautiful! Her mane remained straightened.

“Aunt Rarity! This dress is simply beautiful!” Harmonia said.

“Doesn’t Harmony look pretty Ophelia?” Confetti Pop questions.

The feline looks up from her magazine to gaze that the draconequus. Her eyes widen, and her cheeks held a slight tint of pink. “Harmonia, darling you look gorgeous!” She said, slightly baffled by her best friend’s appearance.

“T-thank you.” The draconequus said, her tone slight nervous.

“This dress was practically made for you!” Honey Crisp said.

“That's because I did make it for her.” Rarity said, giving a soft smile to the girls.

Harmonia hugs her aunt's neck. “Thank you!” Harmonia said.

“I will meet you all at the coordination! Now go!” Rarity said, her tone filled with excitement.

The girls hurry out the door, but Rarity calls back for Harmonia.“Oh! And Harmonia!” she said.

Harmonia pops back in for a moment. “Yes Aunt Rarity?” She asks.

She envelopes her niece into a tight hug, sharing a moment of silence before Rarity softly whispers into her ear. “I am so proud of you.” She said, in a tone so motherly and sincere it made Harmonia tear up just a bit.

“Thank you.” She whispers.

***

“Why are we here?” Phoenix asks.

“We came to the Tree of Harmony for a reason. If that really is “Aunt Twilight” then the Elements of Harmony should have been returned, right?” Kunzite explains.

The two makes their way into the cave where the Tree of Harmony stands. Kunzite flew over to the tree, Phoenix follows. “The Elements are still gone.” Kunzite mutters to himself, his pupils small as dimes.

“Ha! I knew it! That “Princess Twilight” is a fake!” Phoenix said, celebrating her victory on being right.

“Maybe you can celebrate your victory later, come on we have to find the Elements before it's too late.” Kunzite said, tugging on Phoenix's hoof.

Phoenix wonders to herself. “If that isn't Princess Twilight then who is that?”

With that question in the front of Phoenix's mind the pair both flies out of the cave and goes to look for the Elements.

***

The girls made it back to Canterlot in time even before it was two.

Everypony was waiting inside and some on the outside for the newly crowned Princess of Equestria.

Awaiting her ceremony. Harmonia, who was dressed in her elegant attire, watches with her nerves slightly jumbled, she looks down at the streets of Canterlot from her balcony.

“That is a lot of ponies.” Harmonia said, she was a bit nervous as she gazed down below.

“I'm sure you will do great!” said a voice from behind her.

Harmonia turns to face to face with her mother. “Are you sure?” Harmonia questions.

“Positive! Now if you will excuse me I have to go get prepared.” Twilight said, walking away and shutting the door behind her.

Harmonia takes a deep, slow and steady breath. “I can do this.” She mumbles to herself.

***

“Amiris, i need you do a huge favor for your mother and I.” Celestia said, looking at the young alicorn hybrid.

“Sure! What is it?” Amiris asks.

“I need you to crown Harmonia for today.” Celestia said, her tone calm and assuring.

“I'm sorry, you need me to do- what?!” Amiris said.

“Sweetie, you are the only here who can shapeshift. You can transform into Celestia and crown the young draconequus.” Luna explains.

“But what if I mess up?” Amiris said, fear rippled through her body.

“But you won't.” Luna said, she gave a soft smile to her daughter.

“But-” Amiris said, but Luna puts a hoof on Amiris’s shoulder.

“But you won't.” Luna whispers, giving a small smile and hug to her child.

She then shapeshifts into Celestia, both alicorns were proud that she was able to get her first time right.

“Now go make us proud.” Celestia said, smiling at her.

“Wait- I need cue cards if I know what to expect you to say.” Amiris said, she was about to send in flashcards, but Celestia stops her.

“No need to, just speak from your heart.” Celestia said, giving her a small smile.

Amiris takes in a deep breath and exhales, making her body relax. “Okay. I won't let you down.” Amiris said.

***

Harmonia looks though the glass windows, she saw everypony there except for her mother and Aunt Starlight.

“Where could they be?” Harmonia mutters to herself.

The music elegantly plays throughout the room. “I guess I will have to find them later.” Harmonia pushes back the thought of being sad and puts on a smile, one that is filled with anxiety, but also of uncertainty. However, other ponies could just sees this as her “best day ever”.

***

Starlight's ears flicker up from the music, as she knocks on Twilight's door. “Twilight, are you done yet? We are going to be late!” Starlight asks.

Twilight opens the door to her room. “Think you can come here for a few Starlight?” Twilight asks.

Starlight enters the room. “Sure, but you are going to have a lot of explaining to do to Harmonia and why you were late.” Starlight said, her tone strict.

Twilight locks the door behind her. “Oh! And so will you.” Twilight said, igniting her horn.

Twilight fires a blast at Starlight, Starlight dodging out of the way. “What the hay Twilight?!” Starlight snaps at the Alicorn.

“Oh you are going to pay for everything you did!” Twilight sneers, firing another blast.

Starlight quickly throws up a shield around her blocking Twilight's attack. Starlight then fires beam at Twilight. “What has been your problem? Seems like ever since you have came back from Sombra you seem to just despise just about everypony who cares about you!”

“You! You are my problem!” She sneers. She then attacks Starlight to the ground. Standing on top of Starlight as Twilight's hoofs pressed to her chest.

Starlight struggles to breath for a moment. As she tried to ignites her horn, anger seethe in her eyes at the Alicorn. “I have put up with your mood swings, your daughter and I have had your back even when others did not! And this is the thanks I get?!” She fires another beam at Twilight.

Twilight looks at Starlight with disgust. “You really do disgust me.” She mutters.

Starlight then gets to her hooves, firing a spell at Twilight, as she did the same. For, Twilight being much more more powerful than Starlight, but both having an equal matched advantage in magic skill.

“I will not let you ruin Harmonia's special day!” Starlight said, slightly grunting at how much power she was using against the Princess of Friendship.

“And you won't live to tell it!” Twilight teases, but her tease was more of a threat. She then fires a blast at Starlight so powerful that it sends Starlight half way across the room.

Starlight, was slightly drained from the amount of magic she has been using, but she was determined to not give up.

She paints, slightly tired. “Aw, giving up already?” She smirks.

“N-not a chance!” Starlight painting, her body was overwhelmed with tiredness and in a desperate need of a recharge.

“But if this is about Discord then you need to let it go! He's moved on! And you should too!” Starlight said, her tone full of stern.

“Like I said my problem isn't with Discord. It's with you!” Twilight fires another magical blast. This time knocking Starlight unconscious.

“Let's just say Equestria would be better off without their hero.” She spats at Starlight.

Twilight then smirks at the powerful unicorns lifeless body. “I- I did it!” She squeals, She then laughs to herself, so sinister and malicious that it almost sounded venomous.

The laugh then became more echoing and hallow, revealing it no other than to be….

Chrysalis.

***

“Ladies and Gentlecolts may I present for the first time ever Princess Harmonia Sparkle!” Celestia- who was really Amiris- announces.

The double white French doors open, reveal Harmonia her elegant dress flowing swiftly behind her.

Once Harmonia reaches the front of the crowded room. Celestia gently smiles at Harmonia. “Turn to face your subjects Harmonia.” Celestia said, her tone soft.

Harmonia did as she was told, and turn to face her adoring crowd. “Honored guest, family and friends. I present to you Princess Harmonia Sparkle! Heir to the throne of Friendship and Chaos! She is willing to be your new Princess!” Celestia announces, as she levitates the crown off the soft satin pillow that was beside her. Slowly levitating downward on Harmonia's mane.

“If anypony has a reason to object, let them come forth and be heard!” Celestia announces.

As if on cue, a beam of dark magic zips past Harmonia's mane, make her crown hit the floor with a loud, echoing clink.

The ponies in the throne room, gasped. A familiar voice rings throughout the room. “I object!” Spoke a sly voice.

Out from the darkness, came a chilling pony one, who Harmonia wishing she was not seeing. “Awe, what a shame! You didn't even invite your own mother to your big day? Such a pity!” Twilight spoke, her tone icy and cold.

“Twilight?!” The girls and her niece's and nephews said in unison.

“Hi! Girls.” Twilight shifts her gazes to them for a moment, her tone so disgustingly bittersweet it was sicking.

“But I… I thought you-” Harmonia said, trying to gather her thoughts.

“If you ask me, she's not ready to be princess, she's far too young and even unprepared. Therefore, I can still make a decision for you for I- Princess Twilight Sparkle can still rule over you.” Twilight said, lightly touching her daughters nose. “Now we can do this the easy way and you can come with me or we can do this the hard way.” She smirks at her daughter.

“Your choice.” She muses at her.

“No.” Harmonia said, her tone rather stren.

“No?” Twilight questions, her voice icy cold and haughty. “You really shouldn't have disobeyed your mother, Harmonia.” Twilight said, her voice light, dangerous and threatening.

Her eyes glowing. “Seize them!” Twilight calls out.

From all around them, shadows creatures emerge from the walls and floor, surroundings Twilight with glowing red eyes.

“Take care of them! But leave the draconequus and Celestia to me!” Twilight commands.

The shadows nods, completely under Twilight's control.

“Well what are we doing? Just don't stand there fight back!” Sunset commands.

Spike burns half the shadows, leaving them to vaporize. Illusion, Mystic and Trixie blast them with their horns.

The Mane six doing their best to stop the invasion themselves. “This is simply ridiculous!” Rarity said, upset for what has came upon Harmonia’s coordination.

Rarity continues to obliterate the creatures with her horn. “You're telling me!” Pinkie Pie said.

“Mother, what can I do?” Ophelia asks.

“Mother is kind of busy right now!” Rarity shouts, continuing to set the shadow creatures ablaze with light.

“Out of all the days you seriously had to ruin my special day?!” Harmonia shouts, tears aligned her eyes.

“Oh I'm not going to fight you.” Twilight coos to her daughter.

“She is.” Twilight said, from behind her emerges a young alicorn about the age of nine she had the same coat as her Twilight, just darker, she looks at Harmonia with a devilish expression.

“Who are you exactly?” Harmonia questions, unaware of who this young mare was.

“Why I'm your sister! And we are going to have so much fun together!” Stormy said, her tone fake happiness.

“Now! Let's play.” She smirks, she launches herself at Harmonia with her magic.

Twilight surveys the chaos around her, rather pleased with her work. “Now time to extract my second revenge.” She mutters to herself.

***

The atmosphere was chilly, dark and in a place no one wishes to be.

“Come out, come out wherever you are. You two can't hide forever.” Twilight coos, as she stalks the empty hallways.

But they were nowhere in sight. “They really are cowards.” Twilight mutters to herself.

She then comes back up through to the throne room. She took quick notice that Discord was helping Harmonia, but he was behind her. “Bingo!” Twilight said. She smirks, as igniting her horn.

Discord notices this and then quickly notices that Harmonia was in the way as the dark magic was coming straight to her.

Discord quickly, without thinking leaps into action. “Harmonia, move!” He yells, as he quickly push Harmonia out of the way.

Instead of her getting hit by the spell it was Discord.

The room fell silent for a moment since that loud blast from Twilight was heard.

"M-Mom? What have you done?" Harmonia whispers, her tone rather shaky.

In a bright flash of white light, which slowly faded leaving Discord turned to the one thing that he despises of: being turned to stone.

“Dad? Daddy?! Daddy!” Harmonia screams, she utterly felt broken inside as well as the outside, she sat there crying in pain, agony and hurt.

Sunset walks over to her, she looks from Harmonia to Twilight. “You are truly sick.” Sunset said, her eyes narrowed.

But Twilight just shrugs. “I've been called worse, but if I was you I wouldn't be so quick to call somepony a monster, Sunset.” Twilight spats.

This left Sunset to think for a moment. “I'm not like that anymore and you know it!” Sunset shot back.

“If you ask me: Once a monster, always a monster.” Twilight sasses.

“Oh? Like yourself?” Sunset shot back.

Twilight watches observes the chaos around her saying nothing to Sunset. “Now time to find my next target.” She grins, stalking her way to her next victim.

Celestia.

Chapter 37

Chapter 37

“We're back!” Announced Kunzite.

“Whoa!” Phoenix said, dodging a shadow creatures.

“What is going on here?” Kunzite asks, surveying the chaos before the two.

Kunzite and Phoenix watched as screeching shadow like creatures covered the place.

“I thought we was attending a coordination?” Phoenix questions.

Without warning a shadow creature bolted before them, heading straight towards them. “Watch out!” Sunset yells. She jumps in front of the kids, creating a barrier around all of them.

Sunset manages to hold her shield for as long as possible, trying to keep the shadow creatures at bay. She looks at her daughter and the young dragon. “Where the hay have you two been?” Sunset ask, her tone rather strict.

“We did our own little investigation.” Phoenix explains.

“You what?!” Sunset asked, her tone stern.

“Miss. Shimmer just hear us out please.” Kunzite said, his tone practically on the edge of begging to be heard.

Sunset grunts as she tries her best to maintain her shield. “Ugh! I’m trying my best to listen, but I can hardly hear anything over the loud explosions and the consistent screeching.” She said.

Sunset had about enough, and with all her strength, she fires a blast at the creatures. “I said enough!” She yells, firing her horn at them.

She blasts, her beam of magic shooting through the creatures making them evaporate into thin air.

“Mom! We found the Elements.” Phoenix beams.

Sunset's eyes widen. “And we think we know a way to save Aunt Twilight.” Kunzite said.

***

“How many are there?!” Prism asks.

“Too many, darling. Not only that but we are surrounded!” Ophelia said, her back was against the others.

“And I'm running out of confetti for my canon.” Complains Confetti Pop.

“You and me both sis.” Said Cotton Berry, pulling the string to his canon once more.

“Who knew Harmonia's coordination would turn into this.” Honey Crisp said.

“Do you think Harmonia would be able to help us?” Meadow Bliss asks.

Prism looks in the direction that Harmonia was in, looking like she was already in a battle of her own. “She looks preoccupied with her own issues at the moment.” Prism explains.

“Their getting closer…” warns Ophelia.

Suddenly a flames of lime green startles the kids, as they watch the shadow creatures evaporate into thin air.

“Need a hoof?” Asked Spike.

“Where the hay have you been?!” snaps Prism.

“Doing the same thing that you're doing, Prism.” Spike snaps.

“No time for arguing! Let's go!” Honey Crisp said.

***

Twilight carefully and slowly walked the halls of Canterlot, her hooves echoing in the empty, yet destructive hallway.

She calls out in the empty corridor, hoping that somepony will answer. “...... Celestia…..” Twilight's tone was sicking, yet psychotic in a sense.

“...... Come on! Nopony doesn't have to get hurt if you just give up, we can be fair about the whole ordeal you know.” She coos out, her tone rather sicking and sweet.

“.... Besides I know you're hiding in here! So show yourself, coward!” Twilight sneers, blasting one of Celestia's ancient artifacts.

After looking in room after room, but no Celestia to be found. “Come on! I just want to play a friendly game of cat and mouse. Except I'm the cat and you're the mouse.” Twilight said.

She finally tries the last available door, and behold was no other than the Princess of the Sun herself.

Twilight's lips curled into a sinister smirk. “Oh! This will be fun!” She coos.

***

Harmonia dove for her sister's attack. Creating a shield around herself. “Why are you doing this?” Harmonia shouts.

“Because it's an order! I'm simply doing our mother a favor, by getting rid of you!” Stormy said, firing another blast at Harmonia.

“I don't even know you! I just met you like not even twenty minutes ago!” Harmonia said, she puts down her shield and fires a magical blast at her.

Stormy dove, avoiding Harmonia's attack. “And somepony like you is getting crowned? Ha! You don't even look like you are fit to rule. Really? That crown should belong to somepony of worth…. Somepony like… me.” Stormy coos.

“You do realize that the crown goes to the oldest child in a royal family?” Harmonia questions her.

“And that won't be a problem once I'm done with you!” Stormy sneers, firing another blast.

The blast grazes Harmonia, leaving her dress more tattered than it already was. “This dress was one of a kind!” Complains the young draconequus.

“Harmonia!” A familiar voice calls out, who teleports her out of the circle with Stormy.

“Hey! I wasn't through with you!” Stormy calls her, her anger infuriating.

Harmonia fires a blast, but the pony who saves her yelps. “Geez! I try to save your flank and this is the thanks I get?”

“Crystal?!” Harmonia said, her tone in disbelief. Correction, in utter shock that this is the pony who saved her from almost certain doom.

“Have you seen Flurry? I'm starting to get worried about her.” Crystal asks.

“Since when does Crystal and compassion ever belong in the same sentence?” Harmonia questions her cousin.

“Look who has jokes,” Crystal said, her tone sarcastic. “But I'm serious.” She said, her tone rather serious.

“I… I don't know, but- watch out!” Harmonia said, pushing herself and Crystal out of the way.

A blast accompanied by a shadow creatures ensued.

Crystal fired a beam of magic with her horn.

“Why are you helping me? I thought you hated my guts.” Harmonia wonders.

“Oh I do, but that doesn't mean I still don't love you. We just have this odd love/hate family relationship.” Crystal admits.

“Okay…. Who are you and what did you do with the real Crystal?” Harmonia asks.

Crystal sighs. “Look the truth is… how am I supposed to explain this to you?” Crystal asks.

“We always do a spontaneous musical numbers!” Confetti Pop calls out from somewhere in the room.

“It's just…” Crystal said, trying her best to come up with words.

She sighs. “I'm jealous… of my big sister that is.”

“What does any of this have to do with me?” Harmonia questions.

“Look! We have no time to sit and ponder, but we have a bigger situation that is!” Harmonia explains.

Crystal and Harmonia look at their surroundings. “Okay, here's the plan I attack from the left you-” Harmonia was cut off, when a red blast fires from afar, moving Crystal to the side.

“Crystal!” Harmonia calls out. She looks from were her cousin laid unconscious to her cousins attacker.

“Don't worry you're next.” Soothes a voice that belonged to King Sombra.

“I told you I wasn't through with you.” Sneers Stormy.

***

Amaris backs away in fear, she was scared for her life.

Fear prevented her from letting her change back into her original form.

Now Twilight thinks that she's dealing with Celestia when in reality it's really Amaris.

“Princess! Please, let me-” Amaris tried her best to reason with the young Alicorn, but she wouldn't listen.

“I don't want to hear your excuses this ends here and now.” Twilight said, her horn charging up.

“Twilight? What has become of you? What has happened to you?” Amaris asks.

“What happened? You are what happened to me.” Twilight explains, hot tears aligned her eyes. She fires a blast at Amaris, who blocked it with Celestia’s magic.

“Please Twilight! I'm not really Celestia, I'm-” Amiris said, trying her best to reason.

“Really? Well I guess that makes me not really Twilight.” Twilight explains, her tone sarcastic.

She then lunges for the Alicorn, both of them firing magic at each other, while destroying the room in the process.

The two continue to fight, both firing magical beams at each other and blocking each other with their shields. Amiris was slowly giving out of breath, knowing that the two must have been fighting for a solid eight hours.

“Giving up so soon Celestia? Should have known you couldn't fight your own battles.” Twilight spats, with her horn igniting she makes her way slowly to Amaris.

Amaris, who was too tired to continue collapses to the cold floor, her breathing rapid. Twilight stands over her, a sinister smirk on her face. “Now let's end this once and for all.” She coos, her tone sickly sweet.

***

“Hey guys, sorry I'm late-” Shining said, but stopped short and witnessed the scene before him.

“What in Taturus is going on here?” Shining asks.

“Awe…. That's so sweet that you will be joining the party.” Coos a voice from behind.
Shining turned to come face to face with his sister.

“Twily, what happened here?” Shining asked.

“Let's just say this party lacked one important guest to bring this party alive.” The Alicorn teases, firing a blast at the young stallion who blocked it with his shield.

“Oh! Did you not get the memo? Harmonia isn't accepting anymore gifts!” Twilight said, blasting the gift to smoke and ashes.

Shining looked over and saw that Harmonia was lying unconscious next to his daughter.

Shining was furious. “What did you do to them?!” Shining asks, demanding an answer from his sister.

“I assure you their fine, just in a bit of a “timeout” at the moment, both of them have been naughty girls. How about you join them!” Twilight fires another magical beam at him, but Shining once again blocked it.

“Twilight! Listen to me! What you are doing isn't getting you anywhere! You are causing the ones you care about to get hurt! Is that what you really want?” Shining asked, trying to reason with his sister.

Twilight sneers at him. “You don't understand!” Twilight said, she tried to remain cold and distance, but on the inside her exterior was slowly breaking.

Tears aligned her eyes. “Twilight, I've been with you through this whole ordeal! I have never left you! Please spare the ones you care about!” Shining Armor pleads, he tried to hug his sister, who reluctantly came to him with a hug.

But the moment last briefly. Twilight got Shining, right where she wanted him. She fires dark magic at him, causing him to fall to the floor. “Or maybe I wish you'd join them!” She hissed.

***

“I hope we're not too late, cupcake!” Party Favor calls out, joining Pinkie Pie, as he blasts the shadow creatures with his magic.

“Where the hay have you guys been?” Pinkie Pie asks, her tone rather serious.

“Well it isn't my fault that the author waited nineteen Chapters later to add us back in!” Party Favor said, his tone defensive.

“Need a claw darling?” Capper asks.

“That would be very helpful right about now!” Rarity said, continuing to blast the creatures with her horn.

“Okay guys here's the plan….” Capper said, gathering the guys in a small circle.

***

Tempest was zapping the creatures left and right, even without her horn she was doing a pretty damn good job.

She looked around her noticing that everypony was in some type of battle of their own except one: Harmonia.

Tempest eyes widen at what she saw, a crowd of Shadow creatures ready to pounce on the young draconequus princess. She then zaps the remaining few that were in her way, galloping quickly away from them and heading toward Harmonia.

“Back away from the Princess and no one gets hurt.” Tempest said, her tone low and dangerous.

The shadow creatures didn't care, they still charged towards them. Tempest then fires her horn at the surrounding creatures, evaporating them with one zap.

Tempest turned to Harmonia. “Princess? Harmonia if you can hear me please wake up your friends need you.” Tempest pleads.

No sound. “J-Just hang in there okay?” Tempest said, trying her best not to breakdown and cry.

Tempest grabs Harmonia in her magical aura, and races with her to the nearest clearing that their was. Blasting shadow creatures in their path as she makes her way towards the clearing.

She stops short, when she becomes surrounded again. She glaces between them and knew that she was only a few feet away from the hallway.

“Look! I really don't have time to play.” Tempest said, her tone unamused.

Sunset teleports between the two. “I'll hold them off! You go ahead.” Sunset instructed.

Tempest nods and swiftly slides between the shadows.

“Now who wants to play?” Sunset smirks, blasting the shadows.

Tempest opens the door to reveal a spare bedroom. She lays the princess on the bed, taking in her tattered dress and messy mane.

“Harmonia… please wake up Equestria, your friends, all of us need you.” Tempest begs.

No answer.

Tempest hangs her head low, silence falls in the room.

The only sound that was occupying the room was Tempest’s silent thoughts.

“Where in the hay is Starlight at? Come to think of it I haven't seen her for hours.” Tempest thought to herself.

“Maybe I should go look for her. I'm sure the princess will be fine.” Tempest mutters to herself.

A soft, but inaudible groaning could be heard. “Tempest…. Is that you?” Harmonia asks, her voice soft, but also a bit raspy.

“It's me Harmonia.” Tempest said, her tone soft and gentle.

“Wh- What happened? Where's Crystal?” Harmonia asks, gazing around the half empty bedroom.

“I assure you she is okay, just unconscious.” Tempest said.

“Well we have to go help her…. Or them.” Harmonia said, she tried to get off of the bed, but Tempest puts a hoof to her chest.

“I wouldn't advise that, Princess. You just took a hard blow from King Sombra. I would suggest that you stay here.” Tempest suggests.

“I want to help, I'll be okay.” Harmonia said, her tone determined.

Harmonia hops off the bed, but quickly gets pulled to the ground by her own weakness.

“That doesn't look okay to me.” Tempest said, her tone blunt and unamused.

Tempest helps her to her hooves. “Please, let me help. I don't want to be on the sidelines while you all bask in the glory of saving Equestria.” Harmonia said.

Tempest sighs. “Fine, if you want to help then you can start by helping me find your Aunt Starlight.” She said.

Harmonia nods. “Lead the way.”

***

Sunset drags both her daughter and Kunzite into an empty hallway. “How did you guys get the Elements of Harmony? How did you even manage to escape?” Sunset asks.

“Let's just say: it was not easy.” Phoenix mutters.

“Well however you did it, I'm just glad to know that you are both okay.” Sunset said, hugging her daughter.

“And that I am so proud of you, Phoenix.” Sunset gently smiles at her daughter.

“Can we have this touchy moment later? We need to figure out a way to give Twilight's friends the Elements of Harmony. ” Kunzite said.

“Right. But they still looked preoccupied.” Phoenix said.

She watched as The Element of Honesty, Applejack was racing down the hallway with her lasso in her mouth, shouting through bare teeth. “Come back here, ya varment.” She shouts, swinging her lasso over her head.

Phoenix then looks back over to her mom and Kunzite. “I actually overheard Ophelia’s dad and the twins dad coming up with a plan. But I couldn't find out what the plan was about.”

“Well whatever the plan is…. Maybe we can then get these Elements to Twilight's friends. Come on, follow me!” Sunset said.

***

“Does anycreature here like to party?” Party Favor calls out.

“Or like magic shows?” Capper asks.

The shadow creatures stopped invading the others and turned their attention to Party Favor and Capper.

“Dad! What are you doing?” Cotton Berry asks, his tone curious.

“Come one, come all to a magical event of the year! Be prepared to be blown away by a magic so translucent that you will literally be vanished in a flash.” Capper winks.

“Father, now's not a time for magic shows.” Ophelia calls out.

“Literally.” Flash Magnus calls from above, swooping above them.

“Dad?” Prism asks.

Kunzite and Phoenix tiptoes through the room, gathering the kids and the kids grabbing their mothers.

They quickly galloped into a spare bedroom. Kunzite locking the door behind them.

“I'm not sure how long your dad's can hold them off for.” Meadow Bliss was the first to speak up.

“I hope you have a very good reason to be pulling us away from danger. We could be kicking some ghostly flanks by now.” Rainbow Dash explains.

“Yeah, what is it that you have to drag us away that is so important.” Confetti Pop asks.

Phoenix sighs. “We have the Elements of Harmony.”

“What? How?” Rarity asks. “Twilight and Sombra had those sealed away moons ago, darling.”

“I would love to tell you, but we really don't have time to explain.” Phoenix said, giving each of the barriers their respective element.

The girls stood there, gazing down at the elements. “What? What's wrong?” Phoenix asks.

“But what about Twilight?” Kunzite asks.

Phoenix quickly scans the room of ponies and dragons. “Congratulations, Spike! Your Twilight Sparkle.” Phoenix said, her tone sarcastic as she places Twilight crown on his head.

Spike eyes widen as he mutters to himself. "I'm going to be obliterated for impersonating her..."

Phoenix rolls her eyes, annoyed. “Now what are you waiting on? Go save Equestria!” Phoenix said, her tone slightly antsy and impatient.

The girls still stayed put. “As much as we love to protect and save Equestria about a half a dozen times…” Fluttershy spoke up.

“We can't this time.” Rarity said, her tone saddened, her ears flattened.

“What do you mean you can't?” Prism asks.

“Son, we- Applejack has something to tell you.” Rainbow Dash said, pushing forth the Element of Honesty.

Applejack glared back at Rainbow Dash, before sighing and looking at the children. “Sugarcubes, we can't wield the Elements anymore.”

The children gasped, making Confetti Pop gasping the longest. The children look at her, annoying expressions on their faces.

“Sorry.” Peeps Confetti Pop.

Chapter 38

Chapter 38

“What do you mean you can’t wield the Elements?” Meadow Bliss asks, slightly confused.

“We mean we can’t wield the Elements without Twilight.” Fluttershy explains to her son.

“Well, this is just great.” Mutters Prism.

“But we think you guys are able to save Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said.

“How are we supposed to do that exactly? We don’t even know how the Element’s are suppose to work properly.” Ophelia said, gazing at her mother’s element that was around Rarity’s neck.

The girls and Spike, took off the Elements and hands them over to the children. “We will try to buy ya’ll some time take these here Elements and go to a save room. We will try to hold whatever threat we can off.” Applejack said, handing HoneyCrisp her element.

The others handed each of the children their respective element. All except one; Harmonia.

“Where’s Harmonia?” Spike asks, surveying the destruction around them.

“We don’t know.” Cotton Berry said, slightly worried.

“Well if you happen to run into her, give her this.” Spike said, handing her Twilight’s element.

Prism grabs the element from Spike, leading the others to a save room.

***

Tempest and Harmonia walk the empty hallways of the castle. Explosions could still be heard from throughout the castle.

“Do you know which room she could be in?” Harmonia asks her royal guard.

“No clue, but let's keep looking.” Tempest said.

They both come across a door that is slightly ajar.

“Maybe she's in that room?” Harmonia suggested.

Tempest pushes the door open and notice that Harmonia was right.

“Aunt Starlight?” Harmonia mutters, tears pricked at the corners of eyes.

“She's still breathing.” Tempest mutters beside her.

Starlight's eyes slowly opened. “Harmonia?” Starlight questions, looking at the young draconequus.

Harmonia smiles softly at her aunt, giving her a hug. “You have to listen to me,” Starlight said, her voice becoming serious.“The Twilight that we all know and love is not your mother. It's Queen Chrysalis.”

***

Harmonia walks through the hallways, conflicted, confused and scared. “I really need some time to myself.” The young draconequus thought to herself. Without thinking, she teleports herself outside of the castle.

Luna looks out the castle window, curiosity struck her. “Where is that filly going off to?” Luna thought to herself.

*

Harmonia made it to the edge of the woods of the Everfree Forest. “Ugh! I can't do this! I can’t do any of this! I'm no princess. Maybe my sister is better off being a better ruler than me…. I mean she is next in line after all...” Harmonia mutters to herself, her ears flattened.

A small blue beam whizzed past the young princess. Harmonia was startled, she turned to she who could have fired that shot. “Have I got your attention?” Said a voice from behind her.

It was no other than Princess Luna.

“Princess Luna!” Harmonia asks, surprised by her visitor.

Luna walks over to her.“What are you doing out here young one?” Luna asks, her tone curious.

Harmonia sighs, her ears flattened. “I'm just doing some thinking…” she muttered to the Princess.

“Is that all?” Luna asks.

“No, my friends and family are in grave danger, you know this. But I don't know how you could help. Unless you know a spell or two that could stop my mom once and for all and save all of Equestria.” Harmonia mutters.

Luna waves a hoof, dismissing the young draconequus request. You don't need a magic spell or even my magic to save Equestria.” She explains.

“What you're looking for definitely can not be found out or even by magic. You are searching what you need in the wrong place. What you need can only be found within you.” Luna explains.

“And that is?” Harmonia asks, slightly concerned and curious.

Luna puts a hoof on Harmonia chest, smiling softly at her. “Have faith in your abilities and your friends.” she said, her tone going soft.

“That's just it! I just now started to be crowned Princess- or was before the event got crashed. How am I supposed to save Equestria? When I don't even know how to work the Elements of Harmony?” Harmonia asks, the feeling of doubt laced her voice.

"Besides I don't even have what it takes to become a good ruler, so what makes this situation any different?" Harmonia asks.

“You can rant all you want about your doubts and feel sorry for yourself. We all have them, but you also have the power to wipe those doubts away.If you have faith in yourself and what you can do then you will save Equestria.” Luna explains.

Harmonia smiles to herself. “You can save Equestria, everypony else, even your mother and you know it!” Luna said, encouraging her.

Harmonia smile brights even more, one of confidence. “So what are you waiting for? Go save Equestria!” Luna said.

“You're right Princess!” Harmonia said, her tone confident.

"Thank you, Aunt Luna." Harmonia mutters to the alicorn. Luna softly smiles back to her in return.

***

Harmonia races though the damaged hallways, looking for her friends.

Prism and the rest of the children were coming from the opposite direction, racing toward Harmonia.

“Prism?” Harmonia asks, skidding to a stop.

“Harmonia! Thank Celestia we found you!” Prism said, surprised to find his friend. His tone relieved.

“Here.” The pegasus hands Harmonia, an Element of Harmony.

The Element of Magic, her mother's element.

Harmonia looks down at the crown, before looking back up at Prism and the others.

“But-” Harmonia said, about to explain, but HoneyCrisp cuts her off.

“No time for chit chat. Let's go.” HoneyCrisp said.

Harmonia sighs and follows the group anyways.

***

Prism opens a door, ushering the group inside. “We should be safe in here.” He mutters.

He then looks back to the group. “How are these elements suppose to work anyways?” Cotton Berry said, looking down at his mother's element.

“I'm not sure, but guys there something I have to tell you. We also have another threat roaming around the castle and it's Queen Chrysalis.” Harmonia said, looking at the group.

The others gasped, except Confetti Pop. “Sis? How come you aren't surprised by this?” Cotton Berry asks his sister.

“Let's just say I been a knowing.” Confetti Pop said, her tone nonchalant.

“Seriously?!” Ophelia said, her tone rather unamused.

“What? The author wanted to add drama to the series.” Confetti Pop said.

“Well, I think she added enough.” Harmonia mutters.

Confetti sticks her tongue out playfully. “Well now since we have two major problems to deal with I think we need to come up with a different plan.” HoneyCrisp said.

“How about we free Harmonia's dad first? Maybe he will know how to deal with Aunt Twilight.” Meadow Bliss said.

“And you see how that worked out. She turned him to stone!” Ophelia said, her tone rather dramatic.

“Okay new plan. We can go free my dad, then we can save my mom, after that we go find Queen Chrysalis.” Harmonia said, hatching her own plan.

“Great idea, Harmonia. Okay let's go!” Prism said, standing up from his position and leaving the room.

Harmonia blushed at the comment as she follows behind the others.

***

HoneyCrisp leads the group down the hallway, they each peer their heads around the corner to make sure the coast was clear. “Okay, all clear.” HoneyCrisp whispers.

They each made their way over to Discord's statue, eyeing her father's statue sent chills down her spine. How could her mother do something like this?

She knew that he never wanted to be revert back to stone, but here he was a thousand years later, this time by her own mother.

Harmonia sighs. “Okay, let's do this.” Harmonia mutters.

The children gather in a crescent circle around Discord's statue.

They closed their eyes, all focusing on Discord's statue.

Thirty minutes passed, nothing happened. “Isn't there supposed to be rainbows and super cool lasers that happen?” Prism asks, looking around.

“Yes, but I don't understand?” Harmonia said, equally confused.

Harmonia shook the feeling of doubt away. “Come on, we have to try again.” Harmonia said, her tone rather pleading and determined.

Harmonia tried once again, this time their focus fully on the statue.

“Come on, just one spark.” Harmonia thought to herself.

Just then, a small spark comes from the the small group of children.

That small spark created a rainbow, one full of hope, love, light and most important of all: Friendship.

There was an explosion of bright white light, which threw the children backwards. They finally regained conscious. “Did it work?” HoneyCrisp asks.

“Ugh! My head.” Mutters Discord.

“Uncle Discord! You're okay!” Beams Confetti Pop, her voice rather cheerful.

“What happened?” He asks.

“Dad? Daddy!” Harmonia squeals, she throws herself at him, wrapping her claw and paw around him.

Tears aligned her eyes. “I've missed you.” She softly whispers.

Discord was taken aback by his daughters comments and hugs her in response.

“Uh guys? Not to ruin the heartwarming moment, but we've still got to save Aunt Twilight and stop Queen Chrysalis.” Cotton Berry said.

“Wait? When did Bug Queen even get here?” Discord asks, confused.

“Long story.” Ophelia mutters.

“Right. Now we have to save mom before-” Harmonia said, but Meadow Bliss cuts her off.

“Guys? Why do the Elements look… dull?” Meadow Bliss, asks.

The rest of the children look down at their element. Meadow Bliss was right, they were dull even to go as far as say: lifeless.

“What? I don't understand.” Harmonia mumbles. She looks back up at her friends, their expressions went from worried to fearful in five seconds flat.

Discord, on the other hand, has a look of anguish scrawled on his face. His eyes glowing, as he growls at the mare.

“She's right behind me, isn't she?” Harmonia said, her tone unamused.

Harmonia turns around to come face to face with her mother, who just smirks at her.

“I'll be taking these.” Twilight says, her tone sickly sweet. She grabs ahold of the elements in her aura.

She then laughs, wickedly. “Oh, you naive child. Do you not know what happens when you encounter dark magic with the Elements of Harmony?” she asks, still holding them in her aura.

Harmonia furrowed her eyebrows, thinking, but came up with nothing. “You seriously don't know?” she gawks.

“Well I'm 99.9% sure you didn't teach me that.” Harmonia huffs.

“Fine! I'll give you the answer: they become dull and lifeless.” She snaps.

“And since they are not of use anymore,” Twilight smirks.

She throws the Elements of Harmony in the air, cackling she then raises her front hooves and smashes the Elements.

“No!” Harmonia cries out.

They gawked at what just happened.

“But, the Elements-” Ophelia mutters.

“What? You thought they were unbreakable even after they got turned to precious jewelry?” Twilight asks, her tone venomous.

The children said nothing, just gazes down at the elements.

“Looks like you won't be saving anypony else today.” Twilight sneers before walking off.

Prism looks to his friends. “Well, so much for welding those Elements.” He said.

Discord looks at from the broken Elements, to his daughter and her friends, to his ex-wife, who was cackling hysterical. Proud of her success and that she finally won.

So she thought.

Discord eyes started to glow red, as he growls ready to pounce on Twilight.

Before he knew it, he pins her to the ground. “You really think you won?” Discord asks, his tone low and threatening.

Twilight then smirks at him, a look so sick and twisted that it could give somepony the nightmares. She then blasts Discord off of her, but he went back to attacking her once again.

Harmonia and her friends looked at each other, eyes widen before looking back at the scene before them.

Discord and Twilight both blasted magic at each other, Discord dodging Twilight's attacks as he fires back at her. “You really think you can stop me?” Twilight sneers, firing dark magic at Discord.

The two kept pinning each other down, all the way to the throne room.

Harmonia and the gain follows the duo into the throne room, but quickly comes to a stop.

Shadow creatures.

“Does these guys ever give it a rest?” Prism groans.

Confetti Pop sighs. “Time to pull out the party canon.” She said, her tone unamused.

“Sis. You love your party canon.” Cotton Berry said, blasts one of the shadow creatures.

“You're right, I do! It's just I am getting real tired and annoyed with fighting this creatures.” Confetti Pop said, pulling the string to her canon as confetti blasts the shadow into evaporating smoke.

“You're not the only one, darling.” Ophelia said, blasting two of the shadows with her horn.

Her back was against Harmonia, who was continuing to blast three more. “We have to get to the throne room.” Harmonia said, firing her magic at the shadow creatures.

“But how? These goons are blocking our path and we’re outnumbered.” Meadow Bliss said.

Suddenly a beam of greyish violet magic, shot through one of the shadows.

“Go! We will handle it from here.” Trixie said.

“Miss. Trixie?!” HoneyCrisp said, slightly shocked that a regular unicorn could do something like that.

“Go now!” Starlight said, blasting a shadow creature from behind Trixie.

They then race after Twilight.

***

Twilight blasts Discord, sending him into Celestia's throne, which was cracking bit by bit. “Tia is going to need a new throne after this.” Discord mutters to himself.

“She's going to need a new husband to once I'm done with you!” Twilight shouts, firing a blast at Discord.

He ducks and lunges after Twilight, but Twilight quickly grabs him in her dark aura. “You're not winning that easily.” Sneers Twilight.

Harmonia and the others got to the throne room, surveying the massive damaged. From dents to cracks and broken glass, the throne room was a massive wreck. “Looks like Princess Celestia and Luna are going to need a new throne room after this.” Mutters Confetti Pop.

“Look!” Meadow Bliss said, pointing his hoof in the direction of Aunt Twilight and Discord.

Harmonia and the others watched in fear as Twilight drains Discord, leaving him almost powerless.

“Mom! Don't!” Harmonia screams, without thought she lungs herself at her mother, knocking Twilight to the ground.

Twilight aura releases Discord from her grip.

She looks back at her daughter. A sicking look was in her eyes. “Oh you are going to pay for ruining my plans.” Twilight sneers at her own daughter.

Twilight ignites her horn, dark magic seeping through her horn. She fires a blast at Harmonia, but Harmonia dodges it with her shield.

Harmonia fires a beam at her mother. “You know you should really work on your aim!” Twilight sneers, firing a blast.

Harmonia, then holds, up another shield, but time her shield was fizzling, slowly evaporating. “What the?” Harmonia said, confused why her spell was backfiring.

Twilight laughs, at her daughter's failed attempt to protect herself.

Trixie, Illusion, Mystic, Tempest, Starlight, the Mane 5, the Princesses’ and Shining all gather into the damaged throne room.

“Twilight,” mutters Celestia, sad to see what her former student and friend has become.

Twilight looks at the group. A satisfied, but twisted smirk played on her lips. “You really are a bunch of fools! Thinking you could stop me,” she sneers giving a sarcastic laughter. “Well you are sadly mistaken.” She sneers.

“Just so you know know you ponies have a new ruler you will obey and respect now!” Twilight's eyes narrowed.

A light cough could be heard from behind Twilight. “Make that two new rulers.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant as he walks up beside Twilight.

A deathly glare made by both Twilight and Sombra sent chills down everypony’s spines.

They were truly done for.

Chapter 39

Chapter 39

Harmonia tried her paw at her magic once again, but no spark came out.

Illusion spots Sombra a few meters away, smirking. A spell that Twilight and Sombra had created, that was about to collide together. “Harmony! Look out!” Ilusion shouts. He leaps before Harmonia quickly creating a barrier around the two.

“Illusion?” Harmonia asks.

“I saw Sombra from a far and felt the need that I had to protect you.” Illusion said, looking at Harmonia.

“I… I don't know what went wrong with my magic. It's like it's gone.” Harmonia said, snapping her paws.

But nothing happened. The combination of both Sombra and Twilight's spell hit Illusion’s force field so hard, it knocked the two off balance.

Illusion and Harmonia, both tumbled backward, skidding to the floor, but luckily the spell didn't knock them unconscious. “If only we had the Elements.” Harmonia mutters.

“Didn't your mother destroy them?” Illusion asks.

Harmonia nods, her ears flattened. “There's nothing much we can do.” Harmonia mutters, surveying the destruction around her.

“She's pretty much taken everything or everypony we ever care about.” Harmonia explains.

Twilight spots her target a mile away, a satisfied smirk edged on her face. She slowly charges her horn, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

Something caught the corner of Illusion's eye, but he quickly looks away, when he heard his sister yell for them. “Look out!” Mystic yells, she then quickly teleports herself over to the two, quickly throwing up a shield as soon as the spell came in contact with Mystic’s shield, the spell backfired, bouncing off the shield.

The spell headed toward Twilight, but she quickly moved out of the way. The spell zooms past her, but cinched a piece of her sparkly tail.

***

“Why are you helping a rival?” Harmonia questions the young unicorn.

“We may still be rivals, but that doesn't mean I'm not going to help my big brother.” Mystic smirks.

“Geez, she must be a treat to get to know at family reunions.” Harmonia mutters to Illusion, her tone sarcastic.

Illusion lightly chuckles. The same spark he noticed before happened again. “Harmonia, Look!” Illusion said, point in a hoof in the far off direction where the Elements laying at, Harmonia he notices a mediocre spark coming from them.

“I really need a closer look.” Mutters Harmonia.

“Here let me help you.” Illusion said.

Illusion turned to his sister. “Myst, do you think you could distract her long enough for us to take a look at The Elements?” He asked.

“I can try.” Said Mystic.

“Good, I'll use a spell to extract us from my sister's shield, but don't worry we will still have my shield around us.” Illusion explains, he ignites his horn creating the spell.

“Hey! It worked!” Beams Harmonia.

“Great now let's go!” Illusion said.

***

Illusion and Harmonia make their way over to the Elements. Sure enough, they were sparking an electrical surge of energy and magic.

“What seems to be wrong with them?” Illusion asks.

“I'm not sure, but do you think you can teleport all of my friends here?” Harmonia asks.

“Even Mr. Player?” Illusion asks, slightly annoyed.

Harmonia narrowed her eyes at him.

“What? I was only joking… kind of.” Illusion said, but he mutters the last bit to himself.

Harmonia sighs. “Yes him too. Now hurry!” Harmonia said.

Illusion rolled his eyes, as he closes his eyes igniting his horn, teleporting Harmonia's friends to her.

Meadow Bliss moves out of the way of Ophelia’s horn. “Woah, dude! Are you trying to evaporate me?” He asks, the feline.

“Sorry darling! I thought you were a shadow creature.” Ophelia said, slightly embarrassed by her actions.

“Harmony! You're okay!” Squeals Confetti Pop.

“Of course I am! Why would you think that?” Harmonia questions her bubbly friend.

“No reason, because I totally didn't think you were going to get demolished by your sister.” Confetti Pop said.

“You totally thought that dude, everypony here did.” Meadow Bliss spoke up.

“Yeah! Wait, you guys doubt me?” Harmonia asks, her eyebrow arched.

“Pft! Of course we- yeah okay we did.” Cotton Berry admitted.

“You guys seriously have little to no faith in her.” Mutters HoneyCrisp.

Harmonia rolls her eyes, clearly annoyed. “But if you're not ya know-” HoneyCrisp started, but Confetti Pop cut her off by running her hoof across her throat making a “slicing of a knife” sound.

“You know you could have just said dead.” Prism said, his tone blunt.

“But then where's the fun in saying that word?” Confetti Pop giggles.

“Well you see what they mean. But who saved you?” HoneyCrisp wonders.

“Crystal did.” Harmonia said.

“You mean ice queen did?” Cotton Berry asked, his tone in disbelief.

“Are you sure we are talking about the same Crystal? The one who bullied Harmonia at her fifth birthday party and the one who is Princess Flurry Heart’s demonetized little sister. That Crystal.” Ophelia asks, still in shocked herself.

“Yes, that Crystal. But we can discuss more about her later. Look.” Harmonia said, pointing a claw at the Elements.

They were still giving off electromagnetic energy, sparks flying back, forth and in between each other the same ones that were giving off a few hours ago. “What seems to be wrong with them?” Prism wonders.

“Maybe there broken?” Suggested Confetti Pop.

“I don’t think they’re broken. Look!” HoneyCrisp said, pointing her hoof to the Elements.

The kids stayed silent, watching as the Elements that were of electrical currency, stop suddenly. Only to be replaced by an intimate glow.

“Uh, guys what’s happening?” Ophelia asks, slightly concerned about the Elements.

“I’m not sure.” Harmonia said, keeping her eyes locked on the Elements, as they began to change.

They shield their eyes from bright glow that was surrounding the Elements. That lasted for a solid ten minutes, before dying down completely and dropping to the ground with a soft clink.

Prism was the first to uncover his eyes, as well as the rest of the kids from the bright light that they just witnessed. They look at the Elements, which were now different.

“Oooohh! Shiny!” Ophelia beams as she picks up her respective element.

“Why are the Elements a representation of our cutie marks?” Meadow Bliss questions.

“Who cares why? It’s awesome!” Prism said, gazing at his Element.

“Maybe the word awesome can be used later Prism. Right now we have a certain pony to save.” Harmonia said, place the crown on her head.

“She’s right. Okay, let’s go.” Cotton Berry said.

***

The kids peek around the corner of the destroyed throne room, Twilight and Sombra both celebrating that they are finally victorious not just of the Crystal Empire, Ponyville and Canterlot, but all of Equestria.

Harmonia watches from afar, eavesdropping and watching her mother and KIng Sombra’s moves carefully.
Twilight sat upon Celestia’s throne, as she grins wickedly at her success and that her plan has finally fallen into place and that she has won.

“That throne truly does suit you, My Queen.” Sombra said, he had a grin plastered on his face.

“You look like a pretty queen on that throne mom.” Stormy said, smiling at her.

“That throne doesn’t even belong to you!” Confetti Pop yells, her tone rather angry.

Sombra, Twilight and Stormy look around the throne room. Twilight’s eyes narrowed, Sombra blasted a hole in the wall where the sound was coming from. “Confetti Pop!” The group scolds.

Harmonia sighs, knowing that the jig was up. She and the others step through the hole that Sombra had created for them.

“You won’t be fitting that throne for too long mother.” Harmonia sneeres.

“Want to bet?” Twilight sneers, her eyes narrowed at her daughter.

Stormy took notice of the Elements that the children are wearing, her eyes widen. She tugged on Twilight’s tail. “Mother look! It’s the Elements.” Stormy said, pointing a hoof to the ancient artifacts known to ponykind.

Twilight averts her gaze from her daughter to the Elements. “Wh- How is this possible? I destroyed those.” Twilight explains, her tone venomous.

“Because friendship is magic and whatnot.” Confetti Pop explains, her tone calm.

Stormy rolled her eyes, but stood before her mother. Her eyes narrowed and transfixed on the children, specifically Harmonia. “Want me to take care of them for you mother?” Stormy asks.

Twilight stands from the throne putting her hoof to Stormy’s chest. “No need.” Twilight said, her tone mysteriously and chillyingly nonchalant.

She makes her way down the throne, coming face to face with Harmonia. “You dare to go toe to toe with me?” Twilight asks, her tone threatening.

“Uh? What are toes? We all have hooves…. I mean besides Ophelia and Harmonia.” HoneyCrisp states.

“I'll explain it to you later.” Mutters Confetti.

Harmonia and Twilight both stand toe to toe against each other.

Their eyes narrowed at each other, both of their patients wearing thin.

“You're stalling dear.” Twilight said, her voice sickly sweet.

Harmonia narrows her eyes. “So are you!” She shot back.

Twilight sneers as she slowly begins to ignites her horn, still holding her ground.

The children, on the other hand readied their positions. All of them holding their stand.

Twilight then quickly fires her horn, but they dodged it.

“Now!” Harmonia shouts.

The kids nods and focused their attention on Twilight. Twilight fires another blast, but before Twilight’s magic could come into contact with Harmonia and the others, it came into contact with a ray of colorful skittle-like rainbow beam.

Twilight magic was pushing the magic away from her and back on to them. “It's not working…” Ophelia said.

“It has too!” Harmonia wails.

Harmonia and the others, fell off balance knocking them to the ground. Harmonia shakes her head, clearing the blue before her.

Prism walks over to her, helping her to her hooves. “Well no wonder it wasn't working the first time look who was helping her.” Prism said, his tone slightly sarcastic.

HoneyCrisp squints to see why the magic wasn't working to being with. “Sombra?!” HoneyCrisp asks, her tone in utter shock.

“Who else did you expect?” Prism asks, his tone slightly cocky.

“But if we save Aunt Twilight that means we save King Sombra as well.” Confetti Pop explains.

“At this moment I really don't care. I just want my mom back! Now come on, let's try again.” Harmonia said, her tone determined.

They focus their attention back on Twilight, this time- even with Sombra helping her- the rainbow hyper beam overcame both Twilight and Sombra's magic.

Wrapping not only one, but two ponies into a magical skittle-like rainbow aura.

A bright aura, illuminates the entire room. Casting the throne room into a blindingly bright white light.

The children lay on the floor, exhausted and tired, but still breathing and alive.

HoneyCrisp was the first to awaken. “Is everypony okay?” She calls out.

“Yeah, we’re fine.” Cotton Berry said, signaling that both him and Prism were okay.

“Us too, darling.” Ophelia said, calling out for both her and Confetti Pop.

Harmonia groans, slowly awaking. She rubs her head. “Did it work?” Harmonia groans.

Confetti bounces over to her friend, with giddy she hugs the draconequus. “Yay! Harmonia you did.” She beams.

Harmonia softly shakes her head. “No we did it.” Harmonia said, giving her friends a soft smile.

Twilight groans, awaking from her daze. “W- what happened? Harmonia?” Twilight said, looking at her daughter and friends.

Harmonia looks over to the pony who was calling her name, tears filled her eyes. “Mom? Mom!” She said, she lunged herself at her mother- her real mother.

Giving her a tight hug. “I've missed you so much.” Mutters Harmonia.

“I have too, sweetie.” Twilight said. They stayed like that for a moment before a second groan could be heard from behind them.

They both broke contact, and look to see who the second pony was.

Sombra.

Twilight stumbles a bit, before getting to her hooves. She stood her ground narrowing her eyes at him.

Sombra looked at the Princess in shock. “You're highness! I mean no harm, I come to you in peace.” Sombra said, his tone sounding relaxed.

Twilight looked at him confused.“Something tells me I have a lot to catch up on.” Twilight said.

Harmonia and both Twilight gently giggles and smiles at each other.

Stormy peeks her head out from the ruckus. “Father?” Stormy asks.

This young filly sensed a feeling that she never thought she felt before.

Fear.

Sombra looks at Stormy confused. “Why are you calling me father?” He asks, slightly confused.

“Wha- Father, I am your daughter. You- You forgot about me?” Stormy whispers to herself, but still audible enough for them to hear.

Tears aligned Stormy's eyes as they tell to the carpet.

Sombra light-hearted chuckles. “Of course I remember you! I could never forget my own daughter.” He said.

Twilight looks at him. “Sombra! That was not funny!” Twilight scolded.

“But, the look on her face.” Sombra said, slight amused.

“Oh come here.” Sombra said, grabbing his daughter his a hug and ruffling her mane.

***

The children were soon meet by the others.

“We came as soon as we could.” Fluttershy said, her tone sounding slightly worried.

“Where's Twilight?” Tempest asks. HoneyCrisp points a hoof over in the direction that Twilight was in talking with the Princesses’ and her brother.

Tempest nods and goes over joins them.

*

“Twilight! It's so great to have you back!” Cadence beams.

“Indeed!” Luna said, smiling.

Cadence receives a hug from the two Alicorns, and her nieces. She smiles warmly at them, but she was also missing one very important pony.

Celestia.

“Would you guys excuse me for a second?” Twilight asks.

***

“We are so proud of y'all.” Applejack said.

“Yeah! That took guts and you guys had it!” Rainbow Dash said, proud of them.

Illusion walks over to Harmonica, a flirtatious, but kind expression was on his face. “Harmonia do you have your magic back yet?” Illusion asks.

Harmonia smiles back and snaps her paw, but nothing happened. “Huh? That's weird. I guess not.” Harmonia mutters.

Starlight rushes through the throne room. “Maybe we can celebrate later, we need to go!” Starlight said, her voice frantic.

Everypony stopped their chattering, to look at the pastel unicorn.

“What? Why?” Harmonia asks.

Confetti Pop tail starts to twitch. “Guys, whatever it is we need to listen to Starlight. We need to go.” Confetti said.

“No time to explain, but we need to evacuate Canterlot now.” Starlight said, her tone serious.

Twilight poof's into the middle of the room. “Whatever the reason is then we need to listen to Starlight.” Twilight announced.

“I just said that!” Confetti Pop wails.

“Now go!” Twilight commands.

“Twilight, whatever the reason maybe then we have a ship outback that we can all board on to. The ship is able to fit over a thousand. So it should be able to hold all of us.” Luna explains.

“When did you buy a boat?” Twilight asks, confused.

“I didn't even know momma owned a boat.” Amaris said, her tone in disbelief.

“Let’s just say I borrow extra funds out of Tia’s to get it for emergency…” Luna said.

“Are you sure you didn't just get it to have your own fun in it and go sailing?” Amaris asks, her tone smug.

“Of course not…” Luna said, slightly baffled.
“Now let's go.” Luna said, ushering her daughter and Twilight along.

***

Out at the harbor of the dock, out into the shore stood the exact boat that Luna was referring too.

The children-minus Harmonia, the Princesses’, everypony was already on board.

“Why are we all boarding a ship, if half of us can just teleport or fly?” Prism asks.

“Don’t question the plot hole! Also who doesn't want to be on a ship?” Confetti Pop squeals.

“Well if it was a yacht then we would be living like true royalty.” Crystal said.

“I still don't understand why we are leaving.” Cotton Berry said, equally confused.

Harmonia boards the ship equally as confused, but the picture suddenly became clear to her as she remembered that there was indeed another pony.

But between all the chaos that has happened so far she couldn't recall who.

Luna begin to instruct the ponies and they were starting to sail away onto the open waters.

Chapter 40

Chapter 40: Forever Royal (Part 1)

Celestia and Twilight both sat in comfortable silent for the next thirty minutes.

Twilight couldn't bare to look at her mentor in the eyes. She felt awful for what happened between the two.

Celestia looked out onto the vast waters quitely contemplates her thoughts.

Neither one of them looks or speaks to each other.

They over hear Luna shouting orders and the others chatting.

Celestia sighs and begins to walk away, until Twilight calls out to her.

“Um… Celestia?” Twilight said, her voice almost inaudible, but still loud enough for Celestia to hear her.

Celestia stops and turns around. “Yes, Twilight?” Celestia asks.

“I'm sorry for everything that has happened… I-” Twilight was about to begin to apologise, but her mentor cut her off.

“Twilight, none of this is your fault. I'm the one who should be apologizing. I know my sorry will not cut for the actions I have caused and the pain I have inflicted upon you. I never meant for any of this to hurt you.” Celestia explains.

“Well at least you didn't try to take over Equestria.” Twilight smirks.

Her smirk faulted into a frown. “I gave into my own insecurities and anger. I let my emotions get the best of me and it fueled me into wanting to take over Equestria.”

“You couldn't have known.” Celestia mutters.

“And you wouldn't have turned on Equestria if it wasn't for us.” Came another voice.

It was Discord.

Discord came over to Celestia and looked back at Twilight. “Twilight we didn't mean any of this to happen.” Discord explains, his tone full of sorrow.

“Discord, why could have you just told me the truth?” Twilight asks.

Discord sighs. “I am not sure what came over me, I was a coward in doing so. None of this shouldn't have happened. I hurt the two most important ponies in my life. I don't expect you to forgive me right off the bat, but I hope that you know that I still care about you and Harmonia so very much.” Discord explains.

Twilight remains quite, listening to what else the two had to say. “Even though I am married to Celestia now I hope you can still let Harmonia be apart of our lives as much as she is of yours.” Discord said.

“Discord, after everything that has happened only time will tell what will happen next. Harmonia is now old enough to make her own decisions. I want the bond between you two to remain, but that's up to her.” Twilight said, she looks over to her daughter who was idly talking with her friends.

“I know you will not forgive us right on the spot, but in no way did we mean for any of this to happen.” Celestia explains.

“Your trust and friendship will take awhile for you to ever gain back from me, especially you Princess,” Twilight said looking at Celestia.

“But for now let's leave it at aquanauts.” Twilight said, reasoning with the two.

They nod and gave Twilight a hug. Celestia moves away, going back to the boats edge, leaving Twilight and Discord alone.

Discord gives a small smile at Twilight, before leaning into Twilight's ear whispering: “No matter who I choose and even though I have moved on my heart will forever belong to you.”

“But you broke it.” Mutters Twilight, only loud enough to let Discord hear.

Sombra then walks up behind Twilight. “Then let me be the one to fix it.” Sombra said, his tone smooth and slick like black silk.

Twilight then turn to come face to face with Sombra, not the evil tyrant she once knew, but one full of mystery and romance.

He then kisses Twilight on the forehead, before giving her a soft smile.

Twilight smiles back, before turning back to Discord. “Even though we were both in the wrong- more of Celestia's fault than my own- we both got own own happily ever after… in a twisted chaos kind of way.” Twilight giggles the last bit to herself.

“And I could not be more happier than I am now.” Twilight said, before looking at Sombra before giving him a small kiss on the cheek.

***

“Now can you tell us why we are fleeting from Canterlot?” Fluttershy asks.

“And practically all of Equestria?” Asked Sunset.

“Chrysalis.” mutters Starlight.

The ponies gasped.

“So is that why there is a green scary glow over the castle still?” Confetti points out from the distance Canterlot castle sickly green aura.

“But we can't just leave Equestria. Queen Chrysalis-” Harmonia states.

“You mean Queen Meanie.” Confetti Pop interjects.

“Yes her.” Harmonia mutters to her friend.

“Queen Chrysalis is trying to take over Equestria and she is succeeding quite well I might add. But that's not the point we have to go back and stop her.” Harmonia explains.

“Harmonia is right, I mean we have the Elements.” HoneyCrisp explains.

“The Elements won't be enough to stop her I'm afraid.” Luna explains.

“Luna is right. HoneyCrisp, what Chrysalis has is love. She devours love like a succubus would and uses that love to gain her power.” Twilight explains to the young pegasus.

“But we all love and care for each other…. Won't that stop her?” Ophelia asks.

“We do, darling, but-” Rarity said, she was cut off by Cadence.

“It's true love what she goes after. Kind of like a strong bond between two ponies.” Cadence explains.

“We will find saver land then for now we need to keep you all safe. You all are more important to me than the Crystal Empire, heck even Equestria itself.” Shining Armor said.

“I know you care about us- all of us, but when you're in charge it's not only us that's important to you anymore…. It's all of Equestria that is now your family.”

“Harmonia is right. As next in line for the throne of the Crystal Empire, I owe it to my future subjects to fight for them. I say we go back.” Crystal said, her tone determined.

“I know you mean well, but your still only children.” Celestia said, her tone rather worried.

"Some of us are thirteen, fourteen and fifteen ya know?" Confetti Pop calls out.

“I promise I will gather my bravest guards from all across Equestria and go back once you are all save.” Shining said.

“I’m sorry but I have to do this…” Harmonia said, she leaps off the boat’s edge, almost connecting to the shallow depths of the water.

"Wait!" Celestia cries out. But to The Princess of the Sun's surprise. Harmonia flies back upwards from the water.

Crystal beams excitedly at her cousin, glad to see that she could still hover and levitate even if she was still lacking her magic.

Crystal thought for a moment. “I’m coming with you!” she shouts.

“Crystal! Don’t!” shouts Shining, but it was too late.

Shining turns back to the others, coming face to face with his oldest daughter Flurry Heart. "Dad, I love you, but I have to agree with Harmonia. We can't just stand by and leave Equestria to rule under Queen Chrysalis. And as a royal guard it is my duty to protect it from any harm. Please we have to turn around." Flurry Heart said, practically begging.

Shining looks from Celestia to his wife, to his sister. His gazes travels to the others and then back to his daughter, a look of hope was shining in her eyes. "Alright! Guard turn this ship around!" Shining orders.

"We are already turning, sir." The guard spoke.

"Let's go take back Equestria." Shining said, his tone filled with determination.

***

Harmonia and Crystal make their way inside the throne room. The aura of the room clinging to the smell of smoke and destruction.

The girls walked down the long carpet, talking as they were coming up with a plan. “Do you know what your going to do once you get in there?” Crystal asked slightly unsure of what idea her cousin had in mind.
“Of course! The Queen's weakness is love right? So why not just give her love?” Harmonia said.

Crystal stops short and looks at her cousin slightly confused. “I'm not sure I follow.” Crystal mutters.

“Ever heard of true loves kiss?” Harmonia asked, she gives a smirk to her cousin.

“Ooohhh…. But who are you going to kiss to save Equestria?” Crystal wonders.

As if on cue, the was double galloping coming from behind, the girls stopped short and turned.

Harmonia's friends and Illusion came to help them. “Don't think your saving Equestria without us.” Cotton Berry said.

“Yeah, you two are not getting all the glory.” Prism said, smirking playfully at Harmonia.

“Well what are we waiting on we have Equestria to save you know.” Meadow said, his tone impatient.

“Whoa! I think that is the first time Meadow Bliss has been impatient.” Confetti Pop said, surprised by her friends sudden outburst.

HoneyCrisp was equally shocked. “You're telling me.” She mumbles.

“We will think of a plan once we get inside the throne room. For now we need to go.” Harmonia said.

The group gallops ahead, heading for the double doors of Celestia and Luna's throne room.

***

The large doors creaked indicating that somepony was indeed here.

Could it be another guard?

Chrysalis didn't risk another chance like she did the last time- she got caught and had to drain the former guard of it's love, so now she switches to The Princess of Friendship whenever the time comes.

Chrysalis- who had transformed back into Twilight steps out from behind the tattered curtain and chipped throne of Celestia's. She was surprised to see that it wasn't a guard this time, but Harmonia and her friends.

“Oh! Thank Celestia you are okay Harmonia! Mommy is so happy to see you and I'm glad to see that you are safe.” Coos Twilight.

Harmonia stood her ground, as well as her friends. “Cut the act mom. We know who you really are.” Harmonia snaps.

“Or should we say your majesty.” Sneers HoneyCrisp.

Twilight's eye twitched as she growls, Chrysalis was clearly pissed that her cover has been blown.

Chrysalis transformed back into her original form.

“We know how to defeat you Chrysalis.” Harmonia announced.

Chrysalis laughs. “You fools! Whatever plan you have obviously will not work, so how do you think you can stop me?” Chrysalis asks, a satisfied smirk played on her lips.

Harmonia- being the quick thinker she was- quickly turned to Prism. “Kiss me.” Harmonia demands.

Prism face goes red from the request that Harmonia was asking of. “W-what?” Prism asks, slightly baffled.

Harmonia sighs, slightly annoyed. “Ugh! Do I always have to make the first move?!” Harmonia asks, her tone frustrated.

Harmonia then smashes her lips into Prism’s, the kiss lasted for a few seconds. Before they both looked at each other, slightly stunned.

“Wow! Um…” Prism said, slightly stunned by what just happened.

“Uh, you guys you do know she's still here, right?” Cotton Berry said.

They both broke their gaze from each other and turned back to Chrysalis. Who held a satisfied smirk.

Harmonia narrowed her eyes at her, determined to try harder. She turned back to friends, this time her eyes landed on Illusion.

Illusion smirks and walks over to Harmonia. “Wish I could have been your first choice.” Mutters Illusion.

“You're still getting a kiss aren't you?” Harmonia asks, a playful smile edged on her lips.

Illusion shot one back, he then turns to Prism. “Let me show you how a real Colt does it.” Illusion said, his tone rather flirtatious.

Illusion smirks at Harmonia before dipping her and kissing her with romance and passion.

The kiss lasted a tad bit longer than Harmonia expected, but the young princess enjoyed it or so she thought.

“Are you two going to get some air anytime soon?” Prism asked slightly annoyed. “Besides she is still here.” He said.

Harmonia and Illusion both broke their romance, blushing. Then Harmonia from looks from Prism to Illusion then back to Chrysalis.

The pair we're still baffled to find that she was still here.

“What gives!” Harmonia asked, crying out loud.

“Ha! Looks like your kiss didn't work either pretty boy.” Prism snarks.

Harmonia sighs. “I… I don't understand… who else could there be?” She mutters to herself, her eyes scanned her friends, her eyes landed on Ophelia.

Ophelia looks at the draconequus, her eyes playful. “I don't bite you know.” she purrs.

“Would you stop trying to flirt for one second we are trying to save Equestria here. I mean-” Harmonia rambles.

Ophelia rolls her eyes and plants a kiss on Harmonia lips, at first Harmonia was shocked, but she then found herself slowly enjoying it.

Their kiss lasted a tad bit longer than the first two did. Harmonia softly smiles at the feline.

Ophelia openingly ready wanting to go for a second round of kisses.

So they did.

Ophelia then broke her flirtatious gaze from Harmonia, making a slight purring sound.

“Are you purring?” Harmonia asks, her tone playful like.

“Maybe I am, maybe I'm not.” Ophelia said, her tone amused.

Harmonia broke her gazes from the feline, hoping that this final kiss will be the one to save Equestria.

Only to find out…

She's still here!

“Aren't you supposed to be gone by now?” Harmonia asks, slightly annoyed by her presents.

“You see child, you will never get rid of me.” Chrysalis sneers.

“Wanna bet?” Harmonia asks, her tone amusing. She then snaps her paw, but nothing happens.

“W-what happened to my magic?!” Harmonia asks, confused.

“You see child, while I was disguised as your mother, I took every ounce of love from you. Let's just say it was rather satisfying.” She explains, while she licks her lips.

“You are one disgusting lady.” Mutters Meadow Bliss.

“Awe, Thank you.” Chrysalis said, her tone sarcastically sweet.

Crystal then gets an idea. “Harmonia, I think I know a way we can stop Chrysalis.” she said, her tone rather excited.

“You mean ice queen has a plan?” Prism asks, his tone rather amusing.

Crystal cuts her eyes at the pegasus before continuing.

“It's an old artifact in the Crystal Empire called The Lovers Stone. Rumor has it that it can trap any ancient or even powerful villain inside it. I can get the heart here to you, then you can trap Queen Chrysalis inside it.” Crystal beams.

Harmonia face brightened. “Crystal you’re a genius!” she said.

Crystal then focuses her mind and magic on the heart, in a flash the heart appeared.

“Isn't that the Crystal Heart?” Confetti Pop asks.

“Whoops, wrong heart.” Crystal mutters. She quickly poofs the heart away and tried once again.

This time a tainted pink heart that looked slightly used and cracked in a few spots came into view. “Here you go.” Crystal said handing the heart over to her cousin.

The heart had a faint glow to it as Harmonia was holding it. “Please work.” Harmonia thought to herself.

“Heart! I wish for Queen Chrysalis to be trapped inside of you.” Harmonia commands, she throws the heart in the middle of the throne room.

The Heart glowed brightly, causing raspberry pink smoke to pour from it. “Oh no you don't.” Chrysalis sneers.

With her magic, Chrysalis magic aura grabs a hold of the young draconequus hoof.

Harmonia gasped as she tried to pull away from her, but her magic and the current from the hearts magic were too strong.

“Harmonia!” Crystal calls out, the others hurried as the watched Harmonia go around and around, slowly being sucked into the heart with the Queen. “Hold on I'm coming!” She said.

Her friends, Illusion and Crystal tried to catch Harmonia paw, but it kept slipping from each of their grasp.

Harmonia then grabs onto the throne chair. Crystal was the first at Harmonia side. She grabs ahold of Harmonia’s paw. “Don't let go!” Crystal commands.

“I'm trying not to.” Harmonia said, as fear laced in her voice.

Behind Crystal was the others, trying their best to not let Harmonia go. They all took a step back, pulling Harmonia out, but the current was more powerful than them.

Tears brimmed Crystal's eyes. “Please don't let go.” Crystal pleads.

Harmonia grip was vastly slipping.

Once she couldn't hold on for much longer.

She let go.

Both Chrysalis and Harmonia got sucked into the heart.

The children and Crystal collapsed to the floor, they quickly scrambled and gathered around the heart.

“Harmonia.” Mutters Confetti Pop, her tone saddened by what happened to her friend.

The doors to the throne room squeaked open. “What happened? Where's Chrysalis?” Shining asked.

“And where's Harmonia?” Rainbow Dash asked, slightly worried.

The kids remained silent, unable to speak.

They were on the verge of tears. “Where's Harmonia?” Twilight asked, her tone worried.

Tears went down the cheeks of the children. They were truly heartbroken… at lost for words.

“My little ponies, what happened?” Celestia asks, her tone gentle.

Ophelia was the first to speak up. “Cr-Cr-Chrysalis pulled Harmonia into the Heart.” Mutters the young feline.

“What?” Twilight asks, unable to move as if she might have misheard the young feline. She walks over to where the children were gathered around the heart. Twilight noticed that the heart became dull and grey.

“Harmony…” mutters Flurry Heart.

“Do you think you know a spell that could get her out Aunt Twilight?” HoneyCrisp asks.

“Honey, my magic is strong, but not this strong to break whatever type of magic this is.” Twilight explains, tears going down her face.

“Well, it came from the Crystal Empire, maybe Cadence can do something with it.” Meadow Bliss said, his tone rather hopefully.

“I'm sorry, but I'm afraid that I'm not familiar with this type of ancient magic. I have never seen or even heard of a heart like this. The only heart I have ever seen and heard of is The Crystal Heart.” Cadence explains.

“So that's it?! She's just trapped in there?” Shining asks.

“Not necessarily, but I believe that this is a task that Harmonia has to do on her own.” Celestia said.

“What kind of test is this!” Pinkie Pie yells.

“One that will prove her worth.” Celestia said.

Chapter 41

Chapter 41: Forever Royal {Part 2}

Harmonia was sinking lower and lower into the heart, as if she was drowning.

Her eyes was squeezed shut, but only for a second, she opens them.

She looks to the faces of her family and friends being surrounded by the heart their faces full of worry and tears.

Harmonia tries to reach out to them, but the heart's atmosphere was pushing her further down.

She hit the bottom surface, the glass that connected her body to the floor sounded like softly shattered glass.

She lays there for a moment listening to the sound of her own breathing.

The heart’s aura begin to glow around Harmonia from a pale pink to a sickly green. She sat up from the heart’s cold glass surface floor.

Looking around her, she saw the Queen's face everywhere. Harmonia made a low growl of annoyance and despite for this tyrant.

Chrysalis's images from the Lover's Stone made its appearance in every nook and cranny of the glass heart.

The glass heart faded back to it's dull state, Harmonia turned around coming face to face with the Queen.

Fear struck through the young draconequus, but she let that fear only pass through for a mere second. She closed her eyes and snapped her paw. She teleports, but only teleported three feet. She opened her eyes, only to realized she was still trapped.

She tried once again, but again only teleports a short distance. “What the-” Harmonia mutters, she was about to try again, but was cut off by Chrysalis shriller of an evil laugh.

“Silly young and naive princess what makes you think you can just poof your way out of the Lover’s Stone? “There is no way out and you have no powers!” Chrysalis sneers.

Harmonia narrows her eyes at the Queen. “Looks like it’s just you and me now, but not for long.” Chrysalis smirks.

Chrysalis slowly creeps toward Harmonia, towering over the young Princess. “You won’t get away with this.” Harmonia sneers.

“And yet I already have.” Coos Chrysalis.

“You seem my dear, I know what makes ponies tick, their greatest fears-” Chrysalis states.

“I thought that was King Sombra’s doing?” Harmonia questions.

Chrysalis scoffs. “Whatever, but I know that your greatest fear has just come true.” `

Chrysalis blasts Harmonia, sending her flying backwards into the walls of the Lover's Stone heart.

Harmonia shakes her head, regaining focus.

"You're all alone, nopony is here. It's only me and you." Chrysalis sneers.

"You know, just because I'm by myself does not mean I will sub-come to the likes of you." Harmonia states.

"Oh don't be so naive child. You're bound to break sooner than expected." Chrysalis said.

Harmonia thought for a moment, she started to give off a warm glow of light.

"Not if there is a power that you know nothing about." Harmonia said.

"How is this even possible? I taken your powers away from you." Chrysalis asks, slightly take aback.

"Yeah? Well there is one power you seem to have forgotten about and that's love!" Harmonia exclaims.

A bright flash of light radiates from inside and on the outside of the Lover's Stone.

The light dims and to reveal a pale grey exterior from the inside out.

“What was that?” Twilight asks, examining the Heart.

“I'm not sure.” Mumbles Cadence.

***

From inside the heart, Harmonia and Chrysalis still remained trapped inside the crystal walls of the Lover's Stone.

“You do realize that you are still trapped in here.” Chrysalis asks.

Harmonia rolls her eyes. “This is for villains after all.” Chrysalis said.

“For your information, I am not a villain. Unlike you, I can easily get out. My dad may be The Lord of Chaos, but that doesn't mean I'll follow in his hoovesteps.” Harmonia huffs.

“A good friend of mine taught me that.” Harmonia mutters, but she mutters this last bit to herself.

“But how long do you think we will remain trapped in here?” Harmonia mutters.

“Who's to say. The last time this heart was used was a millennium ago. I honestly don't remember the full details, so don't expect me to go there.” Chrysalis explains, her tone blunt.

“Since we are trapped in here for Celestia knows how long I want an understanding.” Harmonia said. Her voice slightly firm, but soft at the same time.

“Of what?” Chrysalis scoffs.

“Of why you are so bitter. What caused you to be this way? And too attack my family. What did we ever do to you?” Harmonia questions.

Chrysalis sneers. “It was you're Aunt Starlight that has made me loathe to despite you ponies even more in the first place. She stole my hive and turned my subjects against me. So while I was away I knew she simply had to pay.” The Queen explains.

“.... Okay, but what does that have to do with my family?” Harmonia asks.

“Your family was never a part of the scheme honestly, but when I saw that your dear mother was corrupted by King Sombra I simply seized that opportunity to pay for what Starlight did to me four moons ago. Also taking over Canterlot was just an added bonus and so was your family.” Chrysalis said.

“Wow! You do not let go of the past so easily. Huh?” Harmonia asks.

Chrysalis didn't even bother to answer. “Oh please I don't need your sympathy.” Chrysalis said.

The draconequus snaps her paw and a Key Lime pie appeared beside her.

“You're thinking of food at a time like this?” Chrysalis asks, her tone unamused.

Harmonia grins, excited. “Forget the pie! I have my powers back! Look, I would really like to help you I really would. But you would only reject my friendship just you did my Aunt Starlight's. I'm not sure what you have been through in the past, but I can't help somepony if they don't want to help themselves first.” Harmonia explains.

“Now if you'll excuse me I have family to see. See ya never Queen Meanie.” Harmonia said, before snapping her paw to get out of the Lover's Stone.

***

“There has to be some way you can get her out.” Confetti Pop said, slightly worried.

“I'm afraid not little one, this type of magic is beyond even Alicorn magic.” Celestia explains.

“So your saying that even five powerful alicorns, such as yourselves and none of you know how to break this type of magic?” Tiberius asked.

“Tibby, this is ancient magic we are dealing with here.” Amiris explains.

“I just want my little fuzzball back.” Mutters Discord.

“We all want Harmonia back, right Stormy?” King Sombra asks, noticing that his daughter was the only one showing any remorse.

“I cry on the inside.” Mutters Stormy, her tone blunt.

“I just want my baby girl back.” Mutters Twilight, tears aligned her eyes.

Without anyone noticing the Lover's Stone lifted from the ground, glowing and spinning as it was turning back into its original state of condition.

Harmonia lightly coughed, before lightly brushing down her ruined dress. “What's everypony crying for? Who died?” she asks.

“I can still hear her voice.” Pinkie Pie mumbles, both her ears and hair both are flattened.

Trixie was hugging her daughter and son, but Mystic was the first one to notice. “Well is it possible to see her too?” Mystic asks to anypony in particular.

Starlight looks at Mystic. “Mystic now's not the time to-” Starlight said, but Confetti Pop cuts her off.

“Harmony! You're okay!” Confetti said, running up to the young princess.

Harmonia giggles. “It's nice to see you too Confetti.” Harmonia said, softly smiling at her friend.

The others turned around, wide smiles appeared on their faces. The first two to hug Harmonia was Twilight and Discord. “Harmonia!” They both said, hugging her.

“Mom! Dad!” Harmonia said, her tone equally as excited to see them.

She wrapped her claw and paw around both of them, eveloping them in a hug. Even though her parents were not together anymore she can still feel the love that they had for her in return.

“We thought we lost you.” Discord said.

“I'm so glad you are okay now.” Twilight said, tears aligned her eyes still.

Celestia walks over to Harmonia. “I’m so glad to see that you are okay Harmonia Sparkle, but where is Chrysalis?” she asks slightly concerned.

“..... Chrysalis is gone….. for good.” Harmonia said, her tone full of assurance.

Celestia nods. “I will get the guard and myself to escort the Lover's Stone to restricted area of the castle where nopony will be able to find it or use it.” Celestia said, her voice stern.

Celestia levitates the Lover's Stone in her aura. A guard escorted her and the heart into the restricted section of the castle.

“I think we should hold off on your coordination. Especially after the current events that has happened here recently.” Twilight suggested.

“I couldn't agree more.” Sombra said, looking at Twilight.

Sombra then looks toward Harmonia. “So you are the daughter Twilight has told me so much about.” Sombra said, his voice calm.

Harmonia slowly nods her head. “And your the King Sombra.” Harmonia said, slightly speechless by his appearance.

“Indeed I am.” Sombra said, giving a soft smile.

“Well, I think that is enough of excitement for one day. So let's go home.” Twilight said, wrapping her both of her wings around Harmonia and Sombra.

***

Four Weeks Later….

“It feels good to have everything back to normal.” HoneyCrisp said, breathing a sigh of relief.

“Indeed! These past eight months have been nothing but a chaotic mess.” Harmonia said, walking the hallways of the School of Friendship.

“Guys remember when Harmonia got us trapped in the detention room? I believe if that never happened then we would have met each other.” Cotton Berry said, recalling on the nonstalgement memory.

“I guess you can say it was a happy accident.” Confetti Pop mutters giggling.

“I'm honestly glad to have meet you all, especially you Harmonia.” Smirks Ophelia.

“Have any of you guys seen Prism? I've been meaning to talk to him.” Harmonia asks to anypony in particular.

“The last time I checked he was outside in the courtyard talking to Meadow Bliss.” HoneyCrisp said.

“Maybe he's still there and I can catch him.” Harmonia mutters to herself.

She then looks at her friends. “I'll be right back.” She said, hurrying off in the direction that Prism was in.

***

Harmonia watches as Prism Dash soars through the sky.

“.... And remember the time I practically saved you from one of Sombra's evil shadow creatures.” Prism said, his tone slightly boastful.

Harmonia sighs. “.... Yes Prism I was there.” Harmonia said, trying her best to hide her sarcasm.

Prism notices this. “Hey? Are you okay?” He asks, slightly concerned for his friends.

“I'm fine.” Harmonia mumbles.

To tell the truth, Harmonia couldn't stop thinking about what Opeliah said to her the other night.

Prism stops hoovering above her and came to the ground at her level.

“I know something is wrong. We're friends. You can tell me.” Prism said, hoping that the draconequus would confide in him.

But she brushed him off.

Harmonia knew that Prism had feeling for her, but did she really have feeling for him in return?

I mean he has been in love with her since they first met outside of her mother's castle when they were around the ages of five and six.

But now those feelings where… fading?

“This is it! I'm finally going to talk to him and tell him how I feel!” Harmonia said, she watches Prism Dash soars through the sky.

“Hey Prism! Think we could talk for a bit?” Harmonia asks.

Prism stops and meets with Harmonia. “Sure! What's up?” He asks, his tone relaxed.

“Have you ever got this feeling that you have been in love with somepony else, yet you don't know how to tell them?” Harmonia ears downfolded.

Harmonia bit the bottom of her lip. “Prism, I like you.” Harmonia confesses.

Prism blushes. “I like you too.” Prism mutters.

Harmonia looks at him slightly confused. “N-no not in that way…. I mean in that way that your thinking.” Harmonia said, fumbling over her words slightly.

“W-what?” Prism said, slightly speechless.

“What I mean to say is that you are a really great friend. I like you as just a friend.” Harmonia said, giving him a soft friendly smile.

Prism tried not to hide the hurt that just panged through his chest, but he masked it with his personality. “You're a great friend to.” He said, giving a smile.

Harmonia gave a light giggle. “Oh shoot! I just remembered I have Honesty class right after lunch! I have to go.” She said, suddenly remembering.

Prism smirks. “It's okay, you go ahead.” He said.

She gave a soft smile before teleporting away.

Prism then hung his head low, embarrassed by what just happened. “I can't believe she's in love with pretty boy.” Prism thought to himself.

HoneyCrisp and Meadow Bliss notices this, and walks over to him. “Hey sugarcube. Are you okay?” HoneyCrisp asks, her tone soft.

“I- I'm fine.” Prism said, his tone slightly broken.

“Dude, you don't look fine.” Meadow Bliss said, slightly concerned for his friend.

“I said, I'm fine. Look I've got to go.” Prism said, his tone hardened a bit.

HoneyCrisp and Meadow Bliss watch as the stubborn pegasus takes off in the direction of the school's library. “He just got friend zoned by Harmonia. Didn't he?” HoneyCrisp asks.

“Yep.” Meadow Bliss said, his tone calm.

*

Prism comes to an empty table in the School of Friendship's Library. He had his muzzle buried into a book and sighs. He wasn't really in the mood for reading.

“Hey? Is everything okay? Why the long face?” Asks a familiar voice.

“Yes, everything is okay Honey, now-” Prism stops mid-sentence when he realizes that the voice didn't belong to HoneyCrisp.

He looks up from his book only to be met by Mystic. “Mystic? What are you doing here?” Prism asks slightly confused.

Mystic slightly blushed. “I just came to check up on you. I saw what happened in the courtyard I'm sorry that it had happened to you.”

“It's fine, I guess.” Prism mutters. “What are you really doing here? You don't seem like the type of pony to come and comfort ponies in a time of need.” Prism said.

“Okay, I actually came to see if you knew where my brother was plus don't tell him that I told you this, but I kinda need help on a Friendship problem.” Mystic explains.

“Why come to me? Out of all the ponies to ask to tutor you. Why did you choose me?” Prism asks.

Mystic shrugs. “... Just can you help me or not?” Mystic said, her tone slightly impatient.

She shoves the papers towards Prism. “I can try, but no guarantee that it would be right considering the state that I'm in at the moment.” Prism said, after looking over the paperwork.

Mystic takes back the homework and looks at him. “It's okay, we can talk about this later. My mom sent me to this school to become a better friend. So I guess you are my first “friendship case” I need to help or something.” Mystic explains.

Prism looks at her slightly confused by what she was implying. Mystic gives him an unnamed look. “I'm here to give you advice. So want to talk about it?” Mystic tone was blunt.

Prism sighs. "I tried to act like I was somepony cool when I was around her." Prism explains.

"But, you’re already cool." Mystic said, slightly blushing.

"Um. Thanks?" Prism said, giving a off look to the unicorn.

"But, I guess that's just how being in love goes you act like a complete fool by trying hard to impress somepony you barely know." He mumbles.

"I just find the whole thing so frustrating." Prism said, banging his head to the desk.

"It sounds frustrating." Mystic said, letting her bottom lip poke out.

"So, I came to the decision that I'm swearing off of dating." Prism said.

"Oh dear Celestia." Mutters Mystic, her eyes going wide.

"I guess my chances of dating him, just got shot in the dark." Mystic mutters to herself.

However, Prism overheard.

"What did you say?" Prism asks.

Mystic's eyes widened. "What? Umm... this friendship question. I do not get any of this." she said, handing the pegasus her homework.

"The Element of Loyalty and Honest, are practically the same Element." Prism said, over looking the problem.

"Ooh, thanks. You’re so smart." Mystic said, blushing.

Two months later….

“I can't believe this day has finally came. After everything that has happened I thought that my crowning would have to wait for another year or so.” Harmonia said, she couldn't help but keep touching her crown.

“After everything you have been through you definitely deserve it.” Illusion said, giving her a small smile.

“You look very beautiful, Harmonia.” Prism said.

“Indeed!” Mystic said, smiling at her. She actually looked happy for once.

“Wait- When did you two get together?” Cotton Berry wonders.

“Oh it's a wonderful story.” Beams Mystic.

“Did it involve a musical number.” Smirks Confetti Pop.

“I believe it did.” Smiles Mystic, who was still swooning over Prism.

“Well they are both made for each other. You two are both have major ego problems.” Snarks Illusion, but gives them a playful smile.

Mystic rolled her eyes at her brother, but looks at Prism. “Oh, I love this song. Come dance with me Prizmmy.” Mystic said.

“Fine. Only for you.” Prism said, leading the two towards the dance floor.

Harmonia continues to greet her guests and giving thanks to the ones congratulating her.

“Congratulations princess.” Said one of her guests.

“Thank you.” Harmonia said, smiling at her.

“Do you mind if I have this dance, Princess Fuzzball?” Asks a familiar voice.

Harmonia turns around to come face to face with Discord.

“O-of course.” Mumbles Harmonia, wiping away the tears from her eyes.

Discord held out his paw and guides his daughter to the center of the ballroom. “I am so proud of the young lady- er draconequus- you have turned into. I know you will make a great princess with your mother's help.” Discord said.

That statement made Harmonia tear up even more. She embraced her dad in a hug. “Oh Dad.” Harmonia said, a soft smile played onto her lips.

Illusion watches from afar, quietly observing and smiling at the scene before him. He patiently waited for Harmonia to finished. He breathes a sigh of relief, once he realizes she was free. “Hey, Harmonia. Would you care to dance?” Illusion asks, holding out his hoof.

Harmonia blushes. “I actually just got done not to long ago dancing with dad, but I would love to.” she mutters.

Illusion smirks at her then whisks her away onto the dance floor.

The two danced elegantly, lightly gliding across the smooth shiny floor. “You dance beautifully, your highness.” Illusion said, his tone light, airy and somewhat romantic.

Harmonia blushes. “Please just call me Harmonia. I'm not all into titles yet, I don't want anypony to address me with that form of title especially my friends unless it's of importances only.” Harmonia explains.

“Got it!” Illusion said.

“So Princ- I mean Harmonia- do you have any new laws to bend upon Equestria since you are crowned?” Illusion asks, his tone playful.

“Who are you the news reporter?” Harmonia asks, her tone bashfully.

Illusion smirks at her. “I'm just trying to figure who you are.”

“You already know who I am. I'm just a simple mare who wants to make everyone happy, but now I've got to find my own happiness. Which I think I have.” Harmonia said, softly smiling.

Illusion smiles back. The song then shifts to a different soundtrack. “Mind if I cut in darling?” Ophelia purrs.

Illusion looks at Ophelia and gave a nod. “Of course.If you need me Harmonia I will be right over there.” Illusion said, before vanishing into the crowd of party goes.

Harmonia nods. “So what was you and pretty boy talking about?” Ophelia said.

“Just stuff.” Mutters Harmonia.

“Oh, really?” Ophelia teases as she smirks at the newly crowned princess.

They glide the shiny ballroom floor with elegance and grace, the dance lasted for a soild 10 minutes.

Ophelia gave a gentle smile to Harmonia. “Thank you for the dance.” Mutters Harmonia.

“No problem darling.” Ophelia said.

“But…. I think I need more time. I mean after everything that has happened-” Harmonia said, trying her best to explain, but Harmonia was cut off by Ophelia kind, but flirtatious gaze.

“It's okay, darling. I understand.” The young feline whispers softly.

Ophelia then leaves Harmonia to tend to her own thoughts before her mother, her mother's personal guard and Aunt Starlight came over to her.

“Sweetheart, I am so proud of you. I love you very much.” Twilight said.

“I love you too.” Harmonia said, but she couldn't help but keep her mind off of other things.

“I know I may have not have been the perfect husband to you, but I want to make up for that now.” Sombra explains.

“Sombra?” Twilight questions, wondering where this was heading.

“I guess what I'm trying to say is… will you marry me?” Sombra asks, his tone bashful.

Twilight was speechless. “I-”

“I think you broke my mom.” Harmonia said, giggling as she waves her paw in front of Twilight.

“I understand if you would rather wait. I mean after everything you have been through I completely understand your decision if you decide to wait. But I promise not only to you, but to you as well Harmonia Sparkle that I will be the best father like figure I can be to you- and my own daughter Stormy. ” Sombra continues.

“Mom? Say something.” Harmonia said, slightly worried.

Twilight took Sombra's small speech into account. After what felt like forever of waiting for an answer, she finally came to her choice. “Of course I'll marry you.” Twilight said, as a huge grin plastered on her face.

Sombra then kisses Twilight, from afar Twilight's friends watch, all smiling.

“Hey! You know what this calls for?” Pinkie Pie asks, her tone bubbly.

“Planning wedding number 2 next year?” Fluttershy asks.

“Heck yeah we are!” Rainbow Dash said, pumping her hoof into the air.

Epilogue

Epilogue: And They Lived Happily Ever After…. Right?

One year later….

“Why do I have to live here?” Stormy complains, walking the halls of The Castle Of Friendship.

“It beats living in the caves in the Crystal Mountains of the Crystal Empire.” Sombra said, trying to lighten the mood.

Stormy rolled her eyes. “And you know how the saying goes: mi casa es tu casa.” Harmonia giggles.

“And what is she doing here? Why is she here exactly.” Stormy mutters.

“She lives here as well plus she's your sister.” Twilight said.

“Correction step-sister.” Stormy said, her eyes narrowed- her tone unamused.

Twilight narrowed her eyes, unamused by her daughter's attitude. “Come with me.” Twilight said, her tone unamused.

*

Twilight pulls her daughter into her bedroom. “We need to talk. I have no idea where this attitude is coming from, but this needs to stop. If this is about our family. Then let me tell you this: No family is perfect. Even ours isn't.” Twilight said, lecturing the young alicorn.

“It was perfect until she joined.” Stormy mumbles.

“You are going to stay here, and until you decide to have a better attitude than you may come down. Now if you will excuse me I have to inform the others about the wedding preparations for tonight.” Twilight said, her voice stern.

Twilight turns to leave and shuts the door behind her.

Stormy groans out loud, annoyed by how her simple life suddenly went all astray. "It's all because of Harmonia, it's her fault I'm in this mess now in the first place." The tiny alicorn thought to herself.

*

Tomorrow…

Twilight sits at the table along with Sombra and Harmonia.

Stormy reluctantly joins them. “I can't wait for tonight!” Beams Harmonia.

“We finally get to say our I do's as a proper wedding this time.” Sombra said, smirking at Twilight.

Twilight gives an airy light laughter. Stormy rolled her eyes out of annoyance. “Won't this be great Stormy? We will finally get to be sisters!” Harmonia beams.

“At least somepony is excited for tonight.” Mutters Twilight.

“FYI, we're not sisters. We're step-sisters. Get it right.” Stormy said, narrowing her eyes at Harmonia.

Harmonia ears folded downwards, slightly hurt by her soon-to-be sisters rude comment. Twilight happen to over hear this statement and slams her fork down on the table. Which causes both Harmonia and Sombra to look up, slightly startled.

“Okay! That's it! To your room. Now!” Twilight demands.

“No.” Stormy said, her hooves crossed over her chest.

Twilight growled, Starlight noticed Twilight's darkened expression. She lays a hoof on her friends shoulder. “Twilight calm down.” Starlight said, her voice calm.

“I am.” Twilight said, her teeth bared.

Starlight pointed to the dark red cloud that hooved above Twilight. “That dark red storm cloud says otherwise.” Starlight said, noticing it.

Twilight looks above her and notices that Starlight was right. Twilight slows her anger towards her daughter, taking slow deep breaths.

“Honey, do what your mother says.” Sombra said, his tone slightly stern towards her.

Stormy pushes her plate away from her. “Fine.” she said, before getting up to leave.

***

“What has gotten into you?” Twilight asks, concerned for her daughter's well being.

Stormy sighs. "I

A gulf of teal magic sweeps through the room, without either of them noticing.

“Stormy! You need to grow up and stop acting like your five, just because you don't get your way.” Twilight lectures.

“Really mom…. I'm-” Stormy said, she realized the voice didn't belong to her own. She opens her eyes and cuts herself short.

They both looked at each other. “What the?” They both said in unison.

“This is not funny.” They said in unison.

They both realized what just happened, they screamed. How did they manage to switch bodied.

“Stormy? What did you do?! This isn't funny!” Twilight said, who now had Stormy's voice.

“I-I don't know, but however this happened. There has to be a spell to switch us back. Don't you have some type of counterspell in your library mom?” Stormy asks, who now had Twilight's voice.

“I honestly haven't heard of this type of magic before.” Twilight said, thinking out loud.

Twilight gasped. “What?” Stormy asks.

“Sweet Celestia! I just remembered the wedding is tonight.” Twilight said, her tone slightly panicking.

“And if we don't figure out how to switch back by seven pm tonight, then that means-” Twilight said, but Stormy cut her off.

“Ew! I am not marrying dad. I love him and all, but not enough to marry him.” Stormy said, her face scrunched up in disgust.

“Come on, we can go see if Zecora has any remedies in her hut.” Twilight said.

“And where is that exactly?” Stormy asks, slightly concerned.

“In the Everfree Forest.” Twilight explains, her tone blunt.

“.... Okay, how to we get their exactly? We can't let Dad and Harmonia know what is going on.” Stormy said.

Twilight gave her an unamused look. “What?” Stormy asks, slightly confused.

“I have a simple location spell already memorized all you have to do is cast it.” Twilight explains.

“Okay, let's go!” Stormy said, she lights up her mother's horn and the two teleports.

***

“After about fifteen location, you finally managed to get it right.” Twilight mutters.

“Well I didn't expect us to wind up in The Dragon Lands, Neigheria Falls and Manehattan.” Stormy said, her tone unamused.

“Just come on we need to get switched back before tonight.” Mutters Twilight.

Twilight and Stormy knock on the door. “Who can it be at this hour? Please wait I am coming.” Zecora said, from the other side of the door.

Zecora opened the door. “Princess of Friendship and her daughter too? To what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you two?” The zebra asks.

“Zecora. You have to help us. My daughter and I accidentally somehow manage to swap bodies.” Twilight explains.

“And we need some type of remedy or cure to switch back. Do you know of any that could help?” Stormy asks.

“It would be more helpful if I knew what magic was at uses.” Zecora explains.

“That's the problem we're not entirely sure.” Twilight said.

“Mom's wedding starts in 5 hours. If we don't find a cure of some sort by then. Then I'll have to marry dad. Which if you add is not a pretty picture.” Mutters Stormy.

“I will see what I can do, it may take some time I assume. But if I find any cure of some sort then I will let you know without a doubt.” Zecora explains.

“Thank you so much Zecora.” Said Twilight.

***

Twilight and Stormy walk back through the Everfree Forest, both had a sulkin looks on their face.

“This is it. We’re doom.” Stormy mutters.

“Honey, don't say it like that.” Twilight said, her voice soft.

“But it's true.” Stormy mumbles, she teleported the two back into the castle inside Stormy's room.

Stormy, who was stuck in Twilight's body came to a sudden realization. “Sweet Celestia. What if this means... that we are stuck like this forever!"

"If we are like this? Then I will do my best to protect you. Stormy. Even if I am a few inches shorter than you." Twilight said, who was now stuck in Stormy's body.

"But we both know that we're screwed. Even if in just a few hours I will have to marry dad. There is no way we will get switched back in time." Stormy thought.

"Now, what kind of attitude is that?" Twilight asks, her tone softens.

Stormy said nothing, but looks out the window. Twilight sighs, and with her tiny body walks over to Stormy placing a hoof on her.

"I want to make things right again and tell you it's all fine, but I honestly just don't see a way to make this all okay." Twilight mutters.

Stormy sighs. “Mom, your wedding is in less than 9 hours. If we can't figure out what counterspell or cure can be made to fix this mess. Then your wedding will be a disaster!” Stormy said, slightly worried.

Twilight thought to herself for a moment. “..... I've read in an old spell book about a reverse spell for body swapping. If we have tension between us before… we just need the opposite of tension.”

“Which is love!” Stormy said, her tone brightened a bit.

“So all we have to do is say the things that we love about each other and that should definitely switch us back to normal?” Stormy asks.

Twilight nods her head. “If you want I can go first sweetheart.”

“Mother, I love you.” Stormy said, giving her a warm smile.

A soft unforeseen breeze blows through their manes.

“.... Say that again.” Twilight said.

“What? I love you?” Stormy repeated.

The breeze picks up again. “Honey, listen to me.” Twilight said, her voice calm.

"Whatever makes you happy, I want for you, I do. Because what I'm telling you, it's true. 'Cause sweetie, I love you for you!" Twilight said, looking at Stormy.

Stormy looks back at her mother.

"And mom you know I love you for you!" Stormy said, softly smiles at her mom.

Starlight gently smile, as she ignites her horn. Causing the atmosphere in the room to change. She then poof into the room. “It's about time you two learned your lesson.” Starlight said, her tone rather amusing.

“What do you mean?” Stormy asks, slightly confused.

“Wait- you caused us to switch bodies?” Twilight asks, surprise.

“Pft, don't act so surprise. I did this to Princesses’ Celestia and Luna once, when they were having a rift between them. Remember?” Starlight asks.

“How can I forget? I hyperventilated almost the entire time when I first found out.” Twilight said, her tone bashful.

Starlight softly smiles, before her spell and switching the two back. “I hope you two learned something by this.” Starlight said.

“Wait- we were suppose to learn something? I thought you did this to mess with us.” Stormy asks.

“I did it to teach you a lesson in family Stormy.” Starlight explains.

“Sweetie, what Starlight is trying to say is that it's better to communicate your problems to me instead of having to face them alone. I will always be here for when you need me never forget that. Don't ever think that I don't love both of my daughters unequivocally. I love you both the same, and if you feel like I'm shutting you out or you feel left out. Then tell me.” Twilight smiles down at her daughter as she wrapped her in her wing.

Stormy snuggles into her mother's fur. “I'm sorry for how I behaved and for the things I said to both you and Harmonia.” Stormy said, her tone was sincere for once.

“I forgive you, honey. Now come on! Let's go get ready for the wedding!” Beams Twilight.

***

Twilight looks at herself in the elongated mirror on the mirror. In just less than two hours she was about to marry the love of her life.

There was a knock on the door. “Come in!” Twilight calls out.

In walks Sombra, in a very slick black tuxedo.

“Sombra you know it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.” Twilight scolds.

“That's simply a silly false rumor my dear.” Sombra said, his tone calm.

“And I must say you look very beautiful in that gown.” Sombra said, eyeing Twilight's figure.

Twilight blushes. “Is there something you needed to tell me? I mean it couldn't wait til after you saw me walk down the aisle?” Twilight questions.

“No it simply could not.” Sombra said, his voice rather calm.

He enters the room Twilight was in, locking the door behind him. “Sombra? Why did you lock the door?” Twilight asks, her tone cautious.

Sombra leans in to kiss Twilight, but she puts a hoof at to his chest. “How about we save it for the wedding.” Twilight said, her voice calm and in a hush tone.

Sombra gives her a smile smirk. “Deal.” He murmurs.

***

The wedding was held outside of Applejack's family barn. The scene was beautiful like something out of a romance movie. It was classic chic as Rarity would put it.

The scenery before them had a rustic, but elegant decorums to it. Bales of hay as well as Southern hanging light bulbs hang from ceiling as well as a few dangling fairy lights.

This time Twilight didn't want a big wedding, only her best friends and family were there. As well as her nieces, nephews, two daughters, Discord, Celestia, Sunset, Spike, Phoenix and Kunzite. Alongside Trixie was her two children, Starlight, Tempest, and a few personal invited guest for the special ceremony.

Luna's moon glistening in the nearby pond, casting an elegant glow above the Apple family barn.

“Sorry that the wedding was last minute Twi.” Applejack said, her tone apologetic.

“It's okay Applejack really this is beautiful.” Twilight said.

Fluttershy then got her birds to sing The Wedding March once more. Everypony stands.

“Are you sure you're okay with Sombra marrying your sister?” Cadence asks, her tone soft and a bit unsure.

“I've been overseeing things between him and her for the past year and a half since he's been reformed. And if you ask me he has been nothing, but a gentlecolt to her. So I approve.” Shining said, as he watches his little sister and dad went down the white satin aisle.

“Take care of her.” Night Light said to Sombra.

Sombra nods. “You're daughter is in good hoofs, sir.” He said.

Night Light nods and walks over to his wife, taking his seat.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today- I mean- tonight to witness the special union formed between Princess Twilight Sparkle and King Sombra. The love for these two undeniable, the commitment of their love is clear and they are both fantastic rulers with pure intentions for this land. I assume that you both have vows prepared?” Luna asks.

They both nodded. “Well I didn't exactly write mine down. So I'm just going to wing it.” Sombra said.

A light chuckle wavers through the crowd, before silence consumed the atmosphere once again.

“Twilight, the moment I first laid eyes on you I knew you were the one. You are beautiful, strong minded, fearless. Those are just a few of the qualities I admire about you. We have been through a lot I the past couple of years, but I am so glad you decided to stay by my side through it all. I promise to you and the kids that I will be the best husband and father I can be to both you and the girls.” Sombra said.

Twilight blushes, then gently smiles. “Sombra, you are truly amazing. You have definitely changed my life for the better and I am forever grateful for you. Thank you for showing me what true love actually is and for being there not only for me, but for Harmonia as well. Thank you for treating her like your own. You are truly remarkable. You are like my knight in shining black armor that I have waited all these years for. Thank you for coming into my life.” Twilight said.

“May I have the rings please?” Luna asks.

Kunzite holds out the rings, for Luna to take. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss your bride.” Luna said, giving the two a soft smile.

Sombra then leans in to kiss Twilight. “Best day ever!” Squeals Flurry from the crowd.

***

Harmonia was standing by the refreshment table, softly smiling as she watches her mom and stepdad elegant dancing across her Aunt Applejack's barnyard floor. Hanging light bulbs and fairy lights illuminate their features casting a soft glow around them.

Harmonia continues to sip her drink, but a small voice causes her to look down.

“Um… Harmonia?” Asks a small voice.

It was Stormy.

“Oh, hey Stormy.” Harmonia said, her tone rather upbeat.

“Look, I'm sorry about what I said earlier. I've never had a sister before. So this change is all so new to me.” Stormy explains.

“It's-” Harmonia said, but Stormy cut her off.

“I'm not finished. Look, I've never had a sister before, so I'm not sure what it is like to have another sibling.” Stormy continues.

Harmonia gave a light giggle. “Stormy, it's okay. I forgive you.” She wraps her sister around her neck.

“Just like that huh? Wow! Our family and friends are a really forgiving group.” Stormy said.

Harmonia giggles. “You have no idea.” She mutters to her sister.

“Sorry to interrupt you Princess, but could you please help us?” A familiar voice asks.

It was Prism.

Harmonia turns around to come face to face with not only Prism, but Ophelia and Illusion as well as her other friends.

“Geez I haven't even been crowned princess for 4 years yet and you already need my help? Whatever do you oh so need?” Harmonia asks, her tone full of sarcasm.

“Haha very funny.” Prism said, his tone equally as sarcastic.

“Please tell these two who you have picked. They have been driving us crazy since the ceremony.” Cotton Berry explains.

“Darling, we have been patient with you and have given you time, but who do you choose?” Ophelia asks.

“Indeed! So who do you pick?” Illusion asks, agreeing with the feline's statement.

“I choose-” Harmonia said, but Confetti Pop cuts her off.

“Ohhh! This is so exciting!” Squeals Confetti Pop.

“This is just like the final episode of The Ponyerlotte where it all comes down to: One. Final. Rose.” Confetti explains.

She hands Harmonia a rose from her mane giving it to her. “Geez… thanks Fetti.” Harmonia mutters.

She looks down from the rose back to her two lovers. She breathes a sigh of relief. “I choose-”

“Remember all those fun times we had together?” Opeliah asks, her tone flirtatious.

“But I bet it's not as fun as the times that we have had. Remember how much trouble we would get into? Remember that food fight that got messy. Food was every with us in the cross fire. Boy were Twilight and my mother furious.” Illusion chuckles.

“That's because it was my only chance to actually get away to talk to you.” Harmonia said, remembering that night.

“Exactly.” Illusion said, winking at her.

Harmonia's face redden by how much attention she was getting from these two. “Would you two stop it with the flirting! You are not making this any easier.” Harmonia explains.

She then breathes in soft sigh. “Could you excuse me for just one second?” Harmonia asks, she snaps her paw and teleports out of the room and outside to get some cool fresh air.

*

“Miss. Shimmer? You returning to your own world so soon?” Harmonia asks, confused by why she was standing outside.

“No, we decided to stay a bit longer. I was actually coming outside for some much needed air. Did some thinking of my own so to speak. However, I was just about to head back inside to congratulate your mother on her wedding, but what are you doing outside instead of enjoying her after party?” Sunset asks.

“Well I was, but now I'm doing the same thing you was just doing. Doing some thinking of my own.” Mumbles Harmonia.

“Would you like to talk about it? Come on. It's better to keep it out in the open than in, right?” Sunset asks.

Harmonia sighs. “It's just Opeliah and Illusion are making me choose between them. And I'm not sure who to choose, they are both so sophisticated and classy. I just don't know if I'm right for either of them.” Harmonia explains.

“Don't lower yourself worth just because somepony is more wealthy than you. Love and friendship is not about wealth. It's about the bond and memory that you created with them. Love comes from in here,” Sunset explains, she touches Harmonia’s heart.

“Not here.” Sunset said, ruffling Harmonia’s mane.

Harmonia giggles. “Love is a powerful devotion, full of passion and emotion. So whoever you choose. Make sure you will be choosing with emotions and feelings rather than logic. As the saying goes the heart wants what it wants. Listen to your heart and you will never go wrong.” Sunset said, smiling at the draconequus.

Harmonia breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you for the advice Miss. Shim-”

“Please call me Sunset.” Sunset said.

“Sunset. I think I know who to choose.” Harmonia said.

“Great! Let's go back inside before they wonder where you went off to.” Sunset said.

***

Harmonia slows her breathing before entering.

“Where in Celestia's name did you wander off to?” HoneyCrisp asks.

“I just needed to get some fresh air, that's all.” Harmonia explains.

“Are you feeling better now?” Meadow Bliss asks.

“Much better.” Harmonia said.

She turns back to Sunset, who nods at her before walking off.

“.... Okay I've did a lot of thinking and mental analyzing. You both are amazing, caring and supportive even. But their can only be one. The special somepony that I choose is….” Harmonia said, looking cautiously between the two.

“Can you just say it already?! The anticipation is killing us! Fine if you can't pick then I'll pick for you. Here!” Confetti Pop said, her tone overly bubbly.

Confetti Pop places Illusion in front of her. “Yay! We're all happy.” Here tone fakely amusing.

Harmonia giggles at her friends antics. “Thanks for the amusing assistance Confetti. But this is based on pure emotional feeling not logical thinking.” Harmonia explains to her friend.

“Does anyone here speak nerd?” Prism asks.

Cotton Berry sighs. “It means she is going to pick with her heart instead of her mind.” Cotton Berry explains.

“You know how the saying goes: The heart wants what it wants. You can't help who you fall in love with.” HoneyCrisp said.

“And I pick you.” Harmonia said, softly smiling at Ophelia.

“Me? But why me?” Ophelia asks.

“Because like you said before: “We are different from everypony else and that is what makes us special. We get each other like no one else does.” Harmonia explains.

Ophelia blushes. “Plus there was this poll between you and Illusion that the author/director made and you won by a landslide.” Confetti Pop explains.

“Confetti, that's ridiculous.” HoneyCrisp said.

“No it isn't look.” Confetti Pop said, pulling the poll out of thin air.

“I swear this isn't what it looks like.” Harmonia mutters.

“It doesn't matter now. All that matters is that we are together now.” Ophelia purrs.

Harmonia giggles.

Starlight watches from afar, smiling that her niece finally found happiness and peace after everything that she has been through over the years.

“Harmonia and Ophelia look so happy together. Don't they?” Starlight asks.

“Indeed!” Trixie said.

“And now it's time for you to choose your own happiness, Starlight.” Tempest said.

“So? Who do you choose, Star?” Trixie asks.

Starlight bit her bottom lip. “I choose….”

***

Harmonia and Ophelia walk over to Starlight, Mystic and Crystal.

“Would you girls like to say something?” Starlight asks.

Mystic sighs. “Harmonia, I am sorry for everything that I have ever did to you when we was kids. I am truly sorry.” Mystic said, her tone sincere.

Crystal nods her head agreeing with the magician's daughter.

Harmonia smirks at them. “It's okay Mystic. We both had some maturing and growing up to do.” Harmonia said, her voice equally as sincere.

“Friends?” Mystic asked.

“Friends.” Harmonia said, smiling at Mystic.

“Oh, how I wish there was a beautiful princess to dance with.” Ophelia said, her tone vaguely sweet, but a tad sarcastic.

Harmonia lightly giggles. “Yes, wouldn't that be nice.” Harmonia smirks.

Starlight gave a small smile and shakes her head.

“Aunt Starlight, maybe their is somepony special you would like to dance with.” Harmonia said, smiling at her aunt.

The last song of Twilight's wedding reception came on for tonight, it was a slow and peaceful song. Everypony was coupled up with each other, swaying romantically to the music.

All except one, Starlight.

Starlight watches from afar, smiling that her niece finally found happiness and peace after everything that she has been through over the years.

“Oh I’m so happy for Harmonia and Opeliah. They look so happy with each other.” Starlight asks.

Starlight turns to leave the reception, walking inside of Applejack's barn but coming out on the other end on the backside to catch some fresh air.

She pushes open the backdoor of the barn to come face to face with somepony all too familiar.

Trixie.

Starlight gave a smile at her and continues walking towards her. She tops in front of Trixie who softly smiles at her.

Trixie takes Starlight hoof into hers. Starlight lightly blushes. They stay silent for a moment, gazing at each other.

Harmonia and the others peek around the barn to see what was going on. All of them remained silent, watching. Ophelia and Confetti Pop both practically had heart eyes watching the two.

Trixie and Starlight remind quite, unsure of what to say to each other. “I'm not sure where life will take us in the future, but I know one thing is definitely for sure. I am sure about us!” Trixie explains.

“So sure that you would ask me to me your marefriend?” Starlight smirks.

Trixie nods, blush rising to her cheeks. “D-definitely.” She said, slightly baffling.

Starlight blushes, kissing Trixie on the cheek. “I would love to be your marefriend.” Starlight whispers.

Trixie smile back, They both look up at the moon their hooves still intertwined with one another's.

“Now this was a great wedding.” Murmurs Harmonia.

Chapter 1

Author's Note

Note before reading this: Was wrote prier before the premiere of School Raze- Part 1 &
2 of Season 8 of FiM anything else shall take place in my own AU called Harmony-verse! Thank you for reading! Enjoy!

Also thanks to Lopoddity for introducing me to their TwilightxDiscord ship dare I say that it is my new OTP!

Also Inspired by: Mister Discord

Chapter 1

Chapter 1- New Year, New Lesson

Celestia’s sun gleaming brightly on Twilight’s castle, as she walks outside enjoying the soft breeze of a cool March breeze blows through her mane. She walks along the tiny bridge, which was connected to the school.

Her school, the School of Friendship.

The corridor covered with ponies and creatures of all species and sizes. She overheard a few of her students talking as she passed by.

“I can’t wait to see what Princess Twilight has in store for us this semester!” an overly excited pegasus said.

“Duh, I know that! But she is still the overall Princess of Friendship.” the pegasus said, stating the obvious

Twilight giggled under her breath, then focused back on the task at hoof.

“Okay Twilight, just breathe. This is your friendship school! I just have to meet with the girls and assign the rooms.” Twilight said, pulling out her list.

Coming from around the corner, Starlight notices her friend/former mentor. “Hey, Twilight!” beams Starlight.

“Hey Starlight!” Twilight replied with the same energy. “Where are the girls?” She asked, noticing that they were the only two here.

“They should be here in a few, I imagine that they are trying to find their way around this place.” giggles Starlight.

“Well I guess they could get their classes assi-” Twilight got cut off by Applejack, who was racing towards Twilight. “Sorry we're late, Twilight.” Apologizes Applejack.

“Yeah, who knew how big this school would have been to find your way around this place!” Pinkie pipes up.

“Well, now that we are all here I can assign the room I have given to you.” Twilight passes out each a map and schedule to the seven girls.

“Ooo, I get to teach fashion!” Squeals Rarity.

“Yeah, because we all know how important fashion is to you Rarity.” Mutters Rainbow Dash.

The girls giggle, while Rainbow Dash looks over her map and schedule.

“I get to coach some of the flyers here? Sweet!” Rainbow Dash said, her tone excited as she pumping her hoof in the air.

“You were saying, Rainbow Dash?” A playful smirk plays onto Rarity lips.

“If you need help showing you to your rooms, I could get Starlight to-” Twilight stated.

“Oh, please Twilight. We're not little fillies you know.” Pinkie Pie says.

Twilight arches an eyebrow. “And how long did it take you to find your way to the main lobby?” She asks in a deadpan voice.

Pinkie Pie gave her a nervous expression and giggle, rubbing the back of her neck. “Hehe forty-five minutes.”

Twilight rolls her eyes in a playful manner. “Starlight, do you think you can show the girls to their rooms?” she asks her friend.

Starlight nodded. “Come on, girls. I already have this place memorized like the back of my hoof.” She directed the girls down the hall.

“Can't believe we are getting treated like fillies.” Mutters Rainbow Dash, who Twilight overheard as she passed by.

Twilight giggles to herself, then looks around the school everything was in perfect order. She gazes down at the list, she grabs a quill in her aura and checks off everypony’s name.

Except for one.

“Hmm? I must have missed this pony.” Twilight thought as she looked at specific name that was on her list. She looks at the name once again, before rolling up her scoll.

Professor Shining Star.

“Must be new here. I would hate to get off on the wrong hoof with him/her. No matter! I just go introduce myself to them. Just be friendly, but not too friendly.” Twilight thought as she makes her way down the hall, making a left turn.

“Princess Twilight?” A young unicorn asks.

“Oh, hello there! How may I help you?” Asks Twilight.

“Could you point me in the direction of-” The young unicorn pauses as she takes a look at her schedule. “Applejack's Homecare and Wellness class?” she asks.

“That is down the hall. Take a right and it is the fourth door on your left.” Directed Twilight.

“Thanks!” She shouts.

Twilight focused back on the task at hoof. There before her was Professor Shining Star door, its exterior of the glass was made of sawokidan crystals its handle cold to touch. “They must have already made themselves at home.” Sighing, Twilight uses the breathing technique Cadence showed her to use whenever she felt nervous or stressed.

“Besides as long as Celestia believes in me, I know I can do this!” Twilight mutters, trying to boost her self-confidence. She knocked on the door before entering. “I bet this new professor is some harmless, strict, for-”

“Come in.” Muffles a voice from behind the door.

Twilight pushes the door open to the professor’s room. She noticed that he was writing a complex spell onto the board, his hoofwriting slightly messy, but still eligible to read as his light blue aura holding a white chalk stick. “Good morning, Professor Shining Star.” The professor turned away from the board to reveal the rest of his appearance. His coat was light grey like the color of a pre-storm cloud with wavy-like salt and pepper colored mane His beard a medium sized goat-tee. His tail was long with the same colors as his mane. His cutie mark symbolized a tornado. His eyes shown a aquatic blue.

The young alicorn stopped in her tracks. Her mind racing and her heart skipping a beat. Blush rose to her cheeks and spread like wildfire, making it noticable.

Flustered by the looks of this dapper professor, Twilight was rather speechless by his sudden appearance.

Professor Shining Star grins at Twilight giving his hoof for her to shake. “Headmistress Twilight Sparkle, I presume? Pleasure to meet you.” His accent was posh- almost British sounding.

“P-Please Headmistress Twilight is fine.” Twilight said trying her best not to stutter.

After the blush tones down from her face she continues. “But it's wonderful to meet somepony who is willing to teach “Physics of Forgiveness” is one of the most complicated subjects. Because no pony really understands what it means to Forgive. But, I am so relieved to have found a quality instructor willing to teach it.”

Professor Star waved a dismissive hoof in front of Twilight “Tish Tosh, my dear! It’s an honor to teach here! I mean just look at where we are standing! You made this school happen! After others have said you can not do something that you love! You took a stand to it and realize that everypony deserve to learn friendship. Other ponies- would have probably step down- but you, you let your voice be heard and opened a School of Friendship! Opening it to other races other than the traditional races. You have a whole new race at your disposal such as hypogriffions, yaks, dragons, and changelings.”

Twilight slouched for a bit, slightly annoyed by how much this stallion rambles.

“Everypony thought that you couldn't do it. Putting you down when you least expected it. They say you were crazy to even consider something like this to even happen! But, I say you’re crazy like a fox.” the professor explains, giving Twilight a sly smile.

This statement broke Twilight from her bored expression, Professor Shining Star now had Twilight’s full attention. “You have defined what friendship truly means. Embrace chaos!” He chuckled to himself.

He paused for a moment, choosing his next words carefully. “Consider me a fan.” he said, his tone rather amusing toward her.

Twilight felt her cheeks warm up again. This time she was speechless. Somepony was a fan of her hard, dedicated work? Nopony- besides her family, friends and of course Celestia herself- has admired her work, but not like this. “... I well… Thank you, Professor.”

Twilight gazed around the spacious room, proud of herself and how far she has come. “But I can’t take all the credit! It was my friends and Princess Celestia who encourage and suggested that I should open a School of Friendship. Plus the map was expanding much more. For example, it has reached out from Saddle Arabia to Manehattan. However, I have always supported the idea of teaching Friendship to non-unicorns- I mean anypony can learn friendship. So after months of structure research and educating myself in different races it became perfectly easy...to...embrace….chaos.”

Grey, misty, fog like smoke enveloped around Professor Shining Star. Twilight pauses from talking to the new professor, taking in his words. This time Twilight was pondering her thoughts to herself before it all became clear. “.... Where have I heard that saying before?” Thought Twilight.

Her eyes widen in bewilderment. “I bet you think this is really funny.” Twilight turned half around giving a glare at the “stallion”. Her voice now had the tone of distaste and slight bitterness. “.... Discord.”

Discord gawking at the Princess of Friendship’s expression, laughing. “Actually, dear headmistress… I thought it was hilarious. I mean being a headmistress of your own school, who-”

Twilight cuts him off. “What are you even doing here Discord?” Bitterness laced in her voice.

“Well if you ask me I think the question is why did you hire me?” Discord riddled. Twilight was slightly confused at what the draconequus was inclining.

“Looks like to me you couldn’t resist my charms.” He looks at Twilight with a sly fox-like smile.

“Pft, you wish.” Twilight scoffed.

Discord rolled his eyes. “Oh come on Twi Twi-”

“Don’t call me that!” Twilight snaps.

DIscord sighes. “Anyways, you “claim” you are not into me, huh?” Discord asks, backing Twilight into a corner of the room, holding an intense gaze at her.

“No.” Twilight said, her tone blunt.

Discord transformed back into the stallion Twilight first encountered with. “So you are saying your not into this?” A playful smile spread across his lips.

Heat rose to Twilight’s face. “N-no..” She stammered.

“Looks like to me somepony is lying to herself.” Discord teased.

Twilight tried to get out of the corner that she was backed into, but between the two of them she knew there was no escaping. “Discord, I swear to Celestia if you do not let me go.” She said, her tone threatening- as her eyes spoke another expression- distaste.

“Twilight,” Discord stated. “You can lie to yourself all you want to, but I know you have feelings for me.”

Twilight stayed silent for a moment thinking of what to say to him. “I thought you were in love with Fluttershy?”

“Psh, that was in quite a few audio dramas especially a popular one: Bride of Discord.” Discord said, mumbling to himself.

“Wait… what?” Twilight looked at him with confusion.

“What are you talking about?” Discord sighed, muttering to himself. “Oh, right I forgot you didn’t like me that much in that one,” he turned his attention back to Twilight, whom was still glazed with confusion. “Ugh, nevermind!” Discord said.

Twilight scrunched her nose, not liking the words that were about to come out of her mouth next. “When did you ever start taking a liking to me anyways?” she asked.

Discord tapped his beard with his hoof. “Hmm that’s a good question! Give me a second.” He grabs the script, wearing his reading glasses as he flips through the pages. “So that is why I started falling for you?” Discord arches an eyebrow. “Who came up with that genius idea?” Discord asks. He scans the rest of the scene. “Vocal Sweets, what have you got yourself into?” He mutters to himself, he poofs away the script. While looking at a slightly confused Twilight.

“Look as much as I would love to figure out why you have fallen for me, which I will seem to never figure out. I actually have office papers I need to return to filling out.” Twilight explains. She grabs Discord in her aura and pushes him to the side, she trots forth toward the door and leaves.

“I actually know why I have fallen for you. Just wish you felt the same way Princess.” Discord mutters to himself.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Falling In Love Is Harder Than It Looks

“Good afternoon, Princess!” Discord greeted the Princess in a very cheerful tone. He startled Twilight awake from her slumber. In a scare Twilight screams, falling out of her bed. “Discord!” Twilight scolded. “How did you- wait… what time is it?” she asks her tone, laced with worry.

“It’s 2:30 in the afternoon, why?” Discord questioned the frantic looking alicorn who was pacing back and forth in her bedroom. “I have a class I have to teach today! I can’t believe I overslept!” Twilight said.

“Oh, I actually took care of that for you, Twilight. Starlight said that she came into your room and tried to wake you, but you didn’t arise. She even got your most trusted Royal Guard Tempest Shadow to come in and check on you.” Discord explains.

“Wait, you were Headmaster for the day?” Twilight questioned.

“Yeah, but I do not see how you get it all done. Honestly, it’s so tiring.” Discord complained, slumping down on the edge of Twilight’s bed.

She let out a small giggle. “Well, thank you for taking care of it.” Said Twilight.

The sound of pure silent sound fills the bedroom for a mere few seconds. “I just thought you could use the day off, honestly.” Discord admitted.

“Well thanks.” Twilight said, rubbing her hoof. Just tell Discord, how you truly feel about him. Twilight thought to herself. I mean she just admitted to herself last night that she had actual feelings for him even to the Princess Of The Night!

Twilight sighed. “Discord… there’s something I have to tell you.” Twilight said. Twilight got interrupt by Tempest Shadow.

“Your highness, there is an attack in Canterlot.” Tempest explains. An unsettling face set on the Princess’s face. “Um… Tempest.. I am kind of in the middle of something. Can’t you ask Celestia to handle this?” Twilight asked.

“Your Highness, you know yourself that Celestia throws you through the ringer practically when danger comes to Equestria.” Tempest said, in practically a deadpan tone. She had a point. Twilight was always the one Celestia depended on during a crisis.

Twilight sighed, rising from the bed. She turned and looked towards Discord. “Do you think we could talk about this later?” Twilight looked at Discord with gentle and understanding in her eyes. “Sure” Discord said, his eyes down casted. Twilight gave a small smile and left.

Tempest looked over at Discord, who was still sitting on Twilight’s bed. “Hey, are you okay?” She looked at Discord, concern edged onto her face. “ Sort of. I mean if you ask me Twilight is very confusing.”

“What do you mean?” Tempest asks. “I mean it's like one minute she does have feelings for me and then the next day she doesn't.” Tempest bit the inside of her cheek. I know exactly what you mean. She thinks to herself. “When it comes to repressing emotions for somepony you like it becomes conflicting and confusing, it can also mess with you head and play with your emotions.”

“I think I have taken note of that.” Discord mumbled. “But if you would like a real answer out of Twilight, maybe you could do something romantic for her.” Tempest suggested. “But I thought giving her the day off was considered romantic?” Discord complains. “If you ask me it was a nice gesture, just not romantic enough. You need to think bigger!” Explains Tempest.

An idea pops into Discord’s head. “Say, When did you become romantic Tempest? I never known it to be in your nature.” Tempest gags a bit. “Don’t remind me! But I’m not!” “So what changed your attitude towards it?” Discord wonders. “Let's just say a group of happy, pastel ponies have changed my attitude towards it.” Tempest sighs. “Well I better get back to patrolling and protecting. A guards work is never done.” Tempest turns towards the door.

Before she walked out, Discord stops her. “Tempest?” Tempest turns to look at him and raises an eyebrow. “Hm?”

“Thank you.” Tempest nods and walks off. Maybe Twilight's friend's could help me.

Discord snaps his claw. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy appears practically out of thin air. Applejack kicks Rainbow Dash across the floor. “Ow! What was that for AJ?!” Rainbow Dash wails. “Whoops, sorry sugar cube! I thought you were an apple tree.” Rainbow snorts and rolls her eyes.

“Discord? What are you doing in Twilight’s room?” Pinkie asks. Discord decides to dodge that question. “You girls maybe wondering why I called you over hear, instead of Twilight.” Discord says. “Well I hope it's important! I was in the middle of practicing for a Wonderbolts air show for next weekend.” Rainbow Dash complains. “And I was about to teach Pound and Pumpkin Cake the difference between sugar and baking soda. I mean both ingredients are a white substance.” Pinkie Pie says.

“Is Twilight in trouble, darling?” Rarity asks. “Actually no. I am.” Discord mumbles.“What seems to be the problem?” Fluttershy asks, worried for her friend. Discord balls up his fist, terrified of his friends reaction to this news. “I need to know how does somepony plan a romantic evening?” Discord mutters the last part to himself. “I'm sorry sugarcube, I didn't get that last bit. Plan a what now?” Applejack says. “A romantic evening?” Discord repeated himself.

Everypony looks at Discord. “So you mean like a date?” Rarity assumed. Discord slowly nodded. Everypony just stares, except for Rainbow Dash who laughs. They turned in her direction. “....Oh? You were serious.”

“Who is this date for, Discord?” Fluttershy asks. Discord contemplates rather or not to tell them that this date is really for their friend, Twilight.

“Ooo, is it for Twilight?” Pinkie guessed, her eyes fluttering. Everypony looks at Pinkie this time with their mouths agape. “Now why in the hay would it be for Twilight, Pinkie?” Applejack questions her bubbly pink friend. “Just a hunch!” Pinkie grins.

“Actually Pinkie. You are right this is for Twilight.” Discord said. “What?!” The girls were shocked. “Wait a second!” Pinkie held up her hoof, she quickly grabs a bottle of water from her mane, uncaps the lid and chugs the drink down, only to do a spit tank in the end.

“Since when does Discord have the hots for Twilight?” Rainbow Dash injects. “Rainbow Dash!” Applejack scolds. “What? It's true!” Rainbow Dash complains. “Well… you see-” Discord was about to finish, when Pinkie replies. “You actually didn't have feelings for Twilight until Season two, because you two have very different personality traits. However, you really enjoying toying with her emotions even going as far as to messing with her mind. It really wasn't until Season 4. Until you were completely head over heels for her!” Pinkie said grinning.

“Um, Pinkie where did you come up with that theory?” Fluttershy asks. “Yeah, I don't think it happened like that, Pinkie.” Rainbow Dash says, slightly annoyed. “Actually she is pretty much spot on.” Discord said. “Yeah! It's a called a fan theory, duh!” Pinkie said.

“So, do you girl’s think you could help set it up?” Discord asks. “ I mean if you really want to impress Twilight, then we will have to pull out all the stops!” Rarity said. “Do you know where you want to have it at Discord?” Fluttershy asks.

Discord ponders for a moment. “We could have it on the balcony!” Discord said. “Oh!” Rarity squeals. “That does sound romantic!” “But don't you think her balcony is a bit small for that?” Applejack states.

“Nothing, but a bit of chaotic magic can't fix!” Discord snaps his claw to extend Twilight's balcony. “Applejack, do you think you could go down to the flower shop and pick up some red roses?” Rarity questions.

“Fluttershy and Rainbow, could you two go find some white transparent silk curtains?” Rarity asked the two. “I'll do Twilight's evening wear. Pinkie do you happen to still have those clear Heartwarming lights, from last year's Heartwarming?” “Colorful? Yes. I'm not sure if I still have the clear ones, but I can ask Mrs. Cake though.” Pinkie said.

“Perfect! We will meet back here in two hours!” Rarity said.

****

Afternoon has dawned on Canterlot, the sky in various hues of lavender, pink, and orange.

“Thank you once again for saving us, Twilight.” Said Celestia. “Yes! Those little creatures are adorable, but don't let them fool you. They are practically a pest!” Luna complains.

“Actually the creatures you encountered with were parasprites.” Twilight informed them. “It's been forever since we seen those tiny creatures.” Celestia said. “I'm just glad Twilight had a chance to stop them, before they had a chance to do some massive damage.” Luna giggles. “You're welcome.” Twilight smiled.

“If you two will excuse me I have some papers I need to fill out.” Celestia said, trotting back to the throne room. Luna looks behind her to make sure the coast was clear before she began to speak. “Excuse me, Princess but before you leave do you think we could talk?” Luna asks. Twilight was a bit confused. “Sure, Princess.” “I have actually witness your dream the other night.” Luna says, with a small smile. “W-what dream?” Twilight asks, slightly flustered.

Luna gives a smug smile. “Oh I think you already, know. But have you told him?” Twilight knew exactly what she was talking about now. Blushing slightly she mumbles. “Not yet.” Luna sighs. “Well here's some advice: You better tell them now, before somepony better comes along and sees that they are worth their time. Time is a very valuable thing, Twilight.”

Twilight nods. “I understand.” She says.

“Before, I got sent to the moon. I was once in love with somepony. However, it was a thousand years ago. His name was Shadow, he became my best friend. He had feelings for me, as if I was the only mare in the world! The night I got banished to the moon, he watched in agony and pain. He said, he never wanted to hurt me. Yet, he was hurting my sister in the process. I called him a shadow because that was all he really was. That night he vanished, never to be seen again.”

Twilight looks at the Princess of the Night, who had the look of remorse etched onto her face. “Sorry to sound, disrespectful princess, but why are you telling me this?” “I'm just saying: Don't build yourself a wall, only to block the ponies who truly care about you out of your life or you will miss out on all the great opportunities in your life to experience.” Luna said. “Your right.” Twilight said. “Thanks, Princess Luna for the advice.” Luna nods and walks off.

I think I'm going to fly back to the castle, just to do something thinking and to clear my head.

***

Discord looks around the balcony, it looks romantic enough for any mare to fall head over hooves in. It looks like this came straight out of a romance novel. Rose petals scatter across the floor, as white silk wraps around the veranda entwined with the clear twinkling lights that Pinkie borrowed from Mrs. Cake. Candles lit around the girls and himself, making the flames dance-not literally however. Soft music plays in the background, as a tray of pasta and French bread from a local restaurant that Discord totally didn't steal from was displayed on a mediocre sized table.

“Is there anything missing?” Discord asked, looking a bit nervous. “Hmm… everything seems to be in order.” Pinkie said. “And it looks so romantic!” Rarity swoons. “I really can't thank you girls enough for pulling this off. I just hope she likes it.” Discord says, eyeing the decorations. “Twilight may be a simple mare, and not over the top like Rarity is-” Rainbow Dash says. “Hey!” Rarity whines. “But I'm sure she will love it, especially if she sees that you put this much effort into it.” Applejack finishes for Rainbow.

“Discord you definitely know how to clean up nicely.” Fluttershy says. “Well thank you,” Discord says, smiling. He was dressed in a crisp black tuxedo, he was wearing a pair of white satin gloves. His mane slicked back with gel. The clock reads 8:00 pm. “Ugh, where is she?” Discord asks.

The cool crisp nighttime breeze rakes through Twilight's mane. She sits on a spare cloud, contemplating her thoughts. Twilight even thought back to Luna’s advice. Why does he have to mess with my mind like this? I mean I think I have feelings for him, but then again-. Frustration over took her emotions and she lets out a scream.

“Ugh! Why does he have to so be discordant?!” Twilight sighed. “Having feeling for somepony especially for him is so complicated! I mean one minute I'm head over hooves, the next I'm hating his guts.” “What is wrong with me!” Twilight groans in agony.

Twilight squeezes her eyes shut, making a pros and cons list inside her head. She slowly opens her eyes. “I think I know my answer.” She then, takes to sky once more this time heading back to the castle.

***

Drained and tired, Twilight collapses onto her bed. It was 8:45 pm and all she wanted to do was slam her face into her pillow, and sleep. Instead she smashes it into something soft and silky. “Huh? What's this?” Twilight picks up the the tag which had her name scribbled in fancy font: “Twilight”.

Twilight opens the paper, as a sense that it was folded in half.

“Please wear this dress and meet me outside.

Xoxo,

Rarity 💋

Twilight removes the card, looking at the dress, thinking to herself. "Looks like another one of Rarity’s designs, but what is this dress for?"

The dress had an elegant shade of magenta and gold trimming around the straps as well as on the waistline of it. It was simply the most beautiful dress she has ever seen. Why would Rarity want me to meet her outside? With this dress on? She saw a faint glow coming from outside. “What the-” Twilight walks towards the light, seeing it gets brighter with each step she takes.

Twilight pushes the double doors to open balcony. “Rarity? Are you out here?” But instead of Rarity, it was Discord. “Discord? What are you doi-” Twilight looks around her surroundings. Her face in complete surprise and shock. “Oh! What's all of this for?” Twilight asks, blush rose to her cheeks. “Well, I thought we could have a dinner under the stars tonight.” Said Discord, who politely pulls Twilight chair out for her.

“The last time I checked you didn't live here,” Twilight said, slightly giggling. “However, I didn't peg you has having a romantic bone in your body, Discord.” Twilight says. “Well I can be full of surprises.” Discord grins.

“Uh guys, why are we hiding in the bushes?” Fluttershy asks. “Because we are going to see how Discord and Twilight’s date goes!” Pinkie hissed, while watching them through her binoculars. “So, we're pretty much stalking them.” Applejack said, in a deadpanned tone.

“More or less.” Rainbow said waving a hoof. “Shh! I can't hear them!” Rarity said, shutting up the rest of her friends.

“This dinner looks delicious, Discord! Did you make it?” Twilight wonders, looking down at her pasta.

“Of course!” Discord said. Twilight looks at him with a raised eyebrow. “Well you try cooking food thirty times only to screw up every dish, even if it was simple!” Discord huffs which in return makes Twilight giggles. “It's fine, really.” Twilight assures, picking up a fork with her aura. “Even if you did steal this from a restaurant, my compliments goes to whoever the chief was who made this meal.”

“Hey Twilight?” Discord asks, rubbing the back of his neck. Twilight looks up with her eyes through the crystal champagne glass. She sets her drink down. “Yeah?”

“Remember that day I told you that I have feelings for you?” He asks.

Twilight nodded her head.

“Well I was, being honest with myself, my feelings and with you. I really do care about you. Yes, I understand we do have our disagreements here and there and we don't get along with each other 90% of the time, but if you ask me that is what makes any friendship or even a relationship stronger than before.”

“Why does everypony have to be honest with me today? I mean first Luna, now him?” Twilight thought to herself. Luna's words advice echoes in her mind.

“I just hope you can be honest with me, like I am being with you.” Discord finishes, with a down castes look at his plate.

Twilight bit the inside of her jaw. “Discord, believe me I have thought long and hard about this-”

“Of course you did.” Discord teases. Twilight blushes slightly. “But Discord, trust me and please believe me when I say this. know we have known each other for 7 ½ years, maybe longer who knows. But if I am being honest with myself, my feelings and with you then I-”

Rainbow was next to look through the binoculars. “Ugh! This is taking forever! Why don't they just kiss already!” “Romance and confessed feelings takes time, darling.” Rarity swoons. “Well if you ask me, it seems like it takes forever!” Rainbow grumbles. Rarity rolls her eyes.

Discord looks deep into the princess's eyes. He could feel a spark between the two, and he hopes that she could feel it was well. Be honest with him. Twilight thought. “Discord I-”

Chapter 16

Chapter 16: Magical Fantasy Mirrors

Sunset Shimmer’s POV:

“Flash, have you seen Phoenix?” Sunset asks, her tone worried.

“No clue,” Flash said, strumming his guitar.

“You were suppose to be watching her.” Sunset said, her eyes were narrowed as she folds her arms over her chest.

“She's up in her room playing with her dolls when I left, to come down here to work on my music.” Flash explains.

“And how long ago was that?” Questions Sunset, her tone blunt.

Flash thought for a moment. “Nine hours ago.” He said.

“Well I just came from her room and she was not in there.” Sunset said, through clenching teeth.

Flash stopped playing his guitar. “Wait what do you mean she wasn't in there?” He asks.

“I mean she's gone, vanished, disappeared, not there anymore.” Sunset made wild gestures with her hands.

“Maybe she went to Aunt Twilight's house.” Flash explains.

“Well if she did, wouldn't you think she would tell you? Unless you were too busy with your music to pay any attention to her.” Sunset said, her tone harsh and defensive.

Sunset grabs her cell phone and dials Twilight's number. “Come on, pick up.” Sunset bit the end of her thumb, awaiting on the other end. After the fourth ring, Twilight answers.

“Hello?” Twilight questions into the phone.

“Hey, Twilight it's me.” Sunset said.

“Hey Sunset what's up?” Twilight asks.

“As much as I would love to answer your question right now I can't. For now, I have a question for you,” Sunset said.

Twilight was hesitant at first. “.... Okay. What is it?” She wonders.

“Have you seen Phoenix? I have looked for her everywhere.” Sunset said into the phone.

Twilight adjusts her glasses. “She was over here for only 30 minutes then she left.” Twilight explains. Twilight could hear the worry in her best friends voice. “Sunset is everything okay?” She asks. She could hear Sunset crying into the phone.

“N-no, I'm not fine. Phoenix is missing and I've looked all in her room, even checked her favorite hiding places around the house.” Sunset explains.

“Well do you need the girls and I to help you come and look?” Twilight suggests.

“That would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Twilight.” Sunset, hangs up the phone. She gazes at the family picture of her, Flash and Phoenix hanging on the wall. Tears stream down her face. “Where are you, baby girl?” Sunset thought to herself.

An hour later…

“We came as quickly as we could!” Twilight said.

The girls were crowded around Sunset in the living room of her house. Sunset cries softly into Applejack shirt.

“It’s not like her to leave like this.” Sunset sniffles. Her voice went raggedy and it felt raw and dry from all the crying she had been doing the past 45 minutes.

“She will show up soon enough.” Applejack assures her, rubbing her back.

“Yeah!” Pinkie Pie said, standing by the door, she looks out the window. “Besides isn't that her running down the street?” Pinkie Pie asks.

“Pinkie, now is not the time to make jokes.” Rainbow Dash said, her tone blunt and unamused.

Rarity looks out the window. “Actually darling, Pinkie wasn't joking. Look!” Rarity raises the window, the others hurry towards it and take a look out of it.

Running, was small girl, she look to have the height of 5’0. She was running as fast as her legs could carry her. She had pale tangerine skin and light baby blue eyes. Her hair was in elegant ringlets of midnight indigo, she had two streaks in her hair one of light gold the other streak was vivid crimson.

“Mom is going to kill me,” Phoenix thought to herself. She made a stop to catch her breath. “Maybe I can weasel my way out of getting into trouble.” She thought to herself. “That seem to always work with Mom.” She lets herself rest for a moment, before walking into the house.

She composes herself. She takes a deep breath before opening the door. She came face to face with her Mom's friends, Sunset, and somewhere among the house of young women was her dad. “Whoa, what happen here a funeral?” Phoenix asks, her tone nonchalant.

Sunset ran up to her daughter and hugged her, almost too tight. “Mom, I can't breathe…” Phoenix choked out.

Sunset unwraps her arms around her daughter placing them squarely a distance from each other. Sunset lightly grips Phoenix's shoulder blades, looking at her in the eyes. “Do you know how worried I was for you?” Sunset asks, her tone more worried than strick.

“I’m fine mom, really.” Phoenix said, her voice sounding calm.

“Well you can obviously see that I’m not. Now tell me where were you.” Sunset said, her voice full of authority.

Phoenix bit her bottom lip, looking around at the group that was before her eyes. She looks down, slightly embarrassed to tell her the truth. “C-can we talk about this later?” Phoenix asks, her voice went soft for a moment only low enough for Sunset to hear.

Sunset arched her eyebrow, slightly confused by what her daughter was implying. She looks at the clock on the wall it was 7:15 p.m. then back down at her daughter, losing her grip. Sunset sighs. “Sure go get washed up, then come back down stairs for dinner after that I will tuck you in.” She explains.

Phoenix nods and go up to the room. Sunset watches for a moment, before turning her attention back to the girls. “I am so sorry for bring you girls out this late.” Sunset said, her tone apologetic.

“Oh it’s okay Sunset, you were just worried.” Fluttershy said in her natural soft-spoken tone.

Sunset leads the girls out of the house. “Well we will see you tomorrow, Sunset.” Twilight said.

“And remember, next weekend I get to babysit Phoenix.” Pinkie Pie said, reminding her of next weekend.

Sunset nods. “Goodbye!” Sunset waves to the girls before shutting the door.

Sunset turns her attention back to her husband, her eyebrows furrowed. “You are so lucky Phoenix came back!” Sunset said, her tone harsh.

“What? It’s not my fault she ran out!” Flash said, his tone was bitter.

“Actually it was you were suppose to be watching her!” Sunset snaps.

***

From inside of Phoenix's bedroom she could hear the sounds of her mother and father fighting, it wasn’t nothing new of course. They did this four days out of a week, which wasn’t always healthy for Phoenix’s relationship with them. The only reason why they are still together was because of Phoenix, they didn’t want her feel like she was growing up in a broken home, but she knew better than that.

Phoenix felt neutral, she didn’t feel numb or even felt like crying. She just sat there with a neutral feeling.

Sunset’s voice felt strain and raspy as if she had been crying while yelling. “That’s it! I can’t take it anymore! Have all the women you want here Flash, I don’t care anymore!” She yells.

“What are you talking about Sunset?” Flash asks.

“Don’t play dumb with me! I’m leaving and I am taking Phoenix with me!” Sunset shouts.

“Over my dead body!” Flash shouts back.

“Watch me!” Sunset hisses, and stalks her way to Phoenix's room.

Sunset slams Phoenix’s door open, the photos on the wall near her door rattled. Seeing her mother highly upset frightened her more than having a fear of worms. She noticed her mother’s tear streaked face.

“Mom-” Phoenix started, but Sunset cut her off.

“Pack your bags, we’re leaving.” Sunset said, her voice strick.

Phoenix knew this day would come, she just didn’t think it would come so soon. “Mom, where are we going?” Phoenix asks, her tone full of innocents.

Sunset roughly wipes the tears from her face. “Anywhere, but here.” she said, looking at the bedroom floor of Phoenix’s room.

“I’ll be back in a few,” Sunset said, she leans off of Phoenix’s door frame and walks into her room. Phoenix looks at where her mother was standing a few minutes ago then turns back to her room.

She had an idea where she was going at least she thinks she did. Still Phoenix pulls out a suitcase from under her bed. She throws it over onto her bed, unlatching it. She started to pack what she thinks she would need for wherever she was going. She throws in some spare clothing items, her favorite bracelet, her toothbrush and toothpaste, her favorite stuffed animal. She starts to take her pictures down.

Sunset returns with her bags. She watches her daughter with curiosity, her voice was still a bit sore from the shouting. “You won’t be needing any of that where we are going.” Sunset sofly smiles at her daughter.

Phoenix on the other hand was confused. “Just come on.” Sunset softly spoke, she motions her daughter to come. Phoenix silently followed her mother, didn’t bother to question her.

Sunset takes one finale look at her husband, he had passed out in the recliner. Sunset silent shaking her head. “Come on, sweetie.” Sunset whispers to Phoenix.

Phoenix looks at her father, tears streaming down. She clutches onto Sunset’s hand tightly. Sunset opens the door, they both walk out into the cool night air.

***

Sunset and Phoenix remain quite, they have been walking to God knows where for the past thirty-five minutes.

Sunset sighs, looking back at her daughter and gave a small smile to her. Phoenix thought for a moment, wondering if this is the best time to bring it up.

“Mom?” Phoenix asks, her tone was slightly inaudible.

Sunset walks a bit more, clearly not hearing her daughter the first time. She silent watches as Sunset use her cellphone. “All six phones, straight to voicemail.” Sunset mumbles to herself.

Phoenix decides to try again. “Mom?” She asks again. Sunset sticks her phone back in her pocket.

“Yes?” Sunset asks.

“Remember earlier when you asked where I was?” Phoenix asks. Sunset nods. “But that doesn’t matter at the moment, sweetie.” Sunset said, softly.

“Actually it does.” Phoenix thought. She sighs and follows Sunset in tow. “Mom, what is Equestria?” Phoenix asks.

Sunset stops dead in her tracks, rather either deciding to either lie or tell her daughter the truth. “A little white lie hurt at the moment. Would it?” Sunset thought to herself. Besides both have been through so much tonight. She doesn’t think her daughter deserves to know the whole truth. Not yet anyways.

Sunset continues walking to her desire destination. “You remember those old tale I tell you at bedtime?” She asks.

“Mhm.” Phoenix said.

“That is what I mean by “Equestria” it’s a magical land filled with friendly ponies and has two sisters who rule the day and night.” Sunset explains.

Phoenix stops. “Mom, I’m eleven now. I know those are just fairytales- er ponytales- in your case.”

Sunset stops, she turns around this time looking at her daughter. “Mom, I want the truth.” Phoenix said, her tone blunt.

Sunset was speechless. “Phoenix, what are you talking about?” she asks.

“You want to know where I have been these past few months?” Phoenix asks. Sunset was silent. “I went to that place that you said was a “fantasy” Equestria. I stay there whenever you and dad get into one of those huge fights. Is it because of me, why you guys fight all the time?” Tears prick at the ends of Phoenix’s cyan baby blue eyes.

“Phoenix! Of course not!” Sunset hugs her daughter.

The wind blowing both of their hair. Phoenix looks up at her mother. “Come on, I think it’s time that you know the truth.” Sunset said.

****

The pair make their way to a bench that was nearby Canterlot High School. They were surrounded by a small flower garden and some shrubs and bushes, the moonlight being their only source of light casting down on the ground making light.

Sunset sits Phoenix into her lap. “Your right, Phoenix. Mommy is not from here. I’m from that fairytale land called Equestria. The sun princess I keep telling you about her name is actually Princess Celestia-”

“But why isn’t she a Queen?” Phoenix questions.

“Hehe, um Queens are bad in that world.” Sunset said, giving a grim expression to her daughter.

Phoenix stays quite to let her mom finish. “Anyways, your mom did a very bad thing in her past. I grew bitter and jealous and was mean to everyone-”

“But you’re not like that now.” Phoenix said, smiling.

“You’re right, now please quit interrupting mommy’s story.” Sunset scolds.

Phoenix sighs, but Sunset continues. “I saw myself as a Princess. Instead I fled here to Canterlot City, where here I learned the key factors of friendship. It took awhile to learn, but it became easy after a while.” Sunset explains.

“Will we ever come back here?” Phoenix asks.

Sunset sighs. “Maybe one day.” She mumbles.

“Now before we go I have some questions for you.” Sunset said, booping the tip of her daughters nose with her finger. Phoenix giggles.

“You’re one smart cookie. How did you figure out I was from Equestria?” Sunset questions, a smug looks plays on her face.

Phoenix bit her bottom lip. “I may have read your diary.” She down casts her eyes to the ground. She knew her mother was disappointed that she went through her personal stuff, but she hated secrets.

Sunset’s eyebrows furrow slightly. “You went through my journal without my permission?” Sunset asks, her voice slightly stern. “Phoenix you know that is private property and off limits even to even to you.”

“I know mom… it’s just I hate secrets and being left in the dark. I’m sorry though and I promise to never do it again.” Phoenix pleads, hoping that her mother forgives her.

Sunset sighs. “I guess it’s fine, but next time ask before snooping around in someone stuff it is not very nice and can get you in a heap of trouble.” She warns her daughter.

Phoenix nods. “Okay I promise.” She said.

Phoenix stays silent for a moment before another question came to her mind. “Who’s Princess Twilight Sparkle?” Phoenix asks, curiosity really has the best of this child tonight.

“You sure do have a lot of questions tonight, huh? She is one of my old best friends. And she is the one who help me become the person-er pony- I am today! Other than, she lives in Equestria.”

“But what about Aunt Twilight?” Phoenix asks, referring to her aunt.

Sunset rubs the back of her neck. “Yeah, those are two totally different people. And your Aunt Twilight turned into a demon who tried to form a rift between two worlds bent on dark magic.” She gives an quirky smile to her daughter.

Phoenix eyes went wide. “But that’s all in the past.” Sunset said, she gave a light giggle. Sunset then pulls out her phone checking the time it was going on 11:33 p.m. and not a single call or even message from her friends.

Phoenix yawns, rubbing her eyes. Sunset picks her up and place her on the left side of her hip. “You ready to go?” She asks, softly. Phoenix nods, tiredly. Sunset takes a deep breath, making her way over to the Canterlot High statue. The base of the statue ripples giving it a magical glowing effect and the two pass through it.

Leaving Canterlot City behind them.

Author's Note

This is canon in my AU, yes we went to EQG