//------------------------------// // Chapter 7: Birthdays & School Of Magic Days // Story: Dancing With The Shadows // by Vocal Sweets //------------------------------//  5 years later…  It was 5am, Celestia’s sun had 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 that was wide awake 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 were 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 awakened by the sudden outburst coming from their daughter. Twilight softly groaned, 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 pricked 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.  She snaps her claw and and a mediocre sized rain cloud appears over Discord's head, the rain pours and startles Discord fully awake. “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 replaces 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, and she frowned once he did not respond to Harmonia's 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 a 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 widened as she looked at the clock. It read 8:15 am.  “Hey who says you can’t be early with preparations?” Twilight asked. 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?” Discord asked.  Twilight growled quietly as she was placed on the ground, out of the bubble. Twilight looked at their daughter who had turned her pillow into pink cotton candy and began nomming on it. 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 dipped 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. She doesn’t  have to know. Consider it an 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 showing mischief. “Alright! Fine. 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 lion's 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, Harmony you look adorable!” Discord squeals.  Harmonia looks at her father quizatifally. “Adorable? Daddy, I want to look terrifying!” Harmonia huffs. However, she proceeds 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 skyrise planks that hung overhead.  “How does this look?” Twilight asks no one in particular.  Pinkie Pie, who was placing 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.” she said.   Twilight places the banner in the direction that Pinkie said. “Now just a bit lower. No wait, that's 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 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, Sugarcube! 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 Twilight.  “She will definitely be surprised to know that you’re 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 loved 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. “Let's 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, as 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 still have plenty of time. 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 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 'fashionably 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 walked 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 happier 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 others , no matter how rude they may be.  “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 you're 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 sounded slightly harsh.      Harmonia shrank back a little, kindly hurt by this young mare's words. Flurry furrows her brows a little, disappointed by her sister’s rather rude behavior. “Does this shindig have a powder room?” Crystal asks, her muzzle scrunching 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 saturs 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 centre 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 partiers.  “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.  Twilight noticed her daughter’s expression. “Sweetie is everything okay?”  “Of course! Why wouldn’t it be?” Harmonia asked.  “Call it a mother’s intuition when they know something is bothering their child. Now tell me what’s wrong? I'm always here to listen to you.” Twilight said, smiling at her daughter.  “It’s just that…” Harmonia sighs. “It’s nothing, really.” She said, plastering a small smile.  Twilight archers her eyebrow. “Are you sure?” She asked.  “Positive.” She said, smiling.   Twilight sighs. “Fine I’ll believe you, just because I don’t want to ruin your day, but we will have this discussion later. However,  I'm glad to know that you are 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 excitedly 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.” 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 stage curtains lifted and from it appeared Rara.  “Just Rara is fine Twilight.” Rara smiles. “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 spend 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 nightfall. *** “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 on display in Harmonia paw. “Say bye-bye.” A wicked grin spreads across her face.  She was about to fire her blast when a voice snapped 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.  *** Later that night, Twilight and Harmonia were 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 a dozen 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.  “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!! Hahahahahahaha! 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 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 poofed 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 next three hours before finally falling asleep.  *** Twilight slept soundly, Discord on the other hoof did not. That annoying bird was still here in the castle, after his failed attempt to catch it the first dozen times failed. He decided to come up with another plan while both the girls were asleep.  Discord snaps his claw and transforms into Twilight herself. “This will be too easy.” He thought.  He carefully goes out of the room, and teleports into the library where Owlicious was held. He carefully opened his cage. “Come on Owlicious, time to come with me to the Everfree Forest. Feeling like doing some late night researching?” Twilight said.  The bird, happily obliged and joined “Twilight” in a company her to the Everfree Forest.  *** Later that same night, Harmonia trotted into Twilight and Discord's room, unable to go to sleep. She normally didn't go to sleep for awhile because of the amounts of sugar she had eaten secretly before bed or just because of the amount of energy she had, but this time was different. She couldn't sleep because she was…well nervous. "Mom?" She asked timidly while knocking on the door. She slowly opened it and walked up to her mother's side of the bed. She gently shook her. "Mom?" Twilight stirred, blinked her eyes a few times and she looked at Harmonia. She smiled tiredly and said, "Hey Fuzzball," Her voice was tired but still friendly and sweet, "What's the matter? Did you have another Nightmare?" "No…" Harmonia said, sounding ashamed. "I just…can't sleep." Twilight shifted and sat up a bit. "Do you want to tell me why?" "I'm nervous for tomorrow…" Harmonia admitted, snuggling up to Twilight, "I mean…what if I'm not good enough? What if I mess up? What if I fail?! Like…undoubtedly, undeniably fail?!" "Shh…" Twilight said, lightly patting Harmonia's head, and pulling her close. "It's okay…trust me, you're getting yourself worked up. It won't be as bad as you think." "How can you know?" Harmonia asked quietly. "Because I felt just like you when I took my test." Twilight said. Harmonia looked up, her eyes watery and wide in surprise. "Really?" Twilight giggled a little. "Oh, yes definitely. I was so nervous, and I thought I failed, but then Rainbow did her Sonic Rainboom and-" "Wait, what?" Harmonia asked, confused. Twilight shook her head. "I'll tell you later…anyways, the point is that it wasn't as bad as I thought it was. And I'm sure you'll do amazing." Harmonia smiled. "Thanks mom." Twilight slipped out of her bed. "Now come on, let's go back to sleep." *** 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.” Harmonia  thought.  “Honey, breakfast is ready!” Discord calls from downstairs.  “Coming!” She shouts back. Harmony gives one last look at her appearance, as she quickly fix a loose strand of her white mane, before gathering her belongs.She straps her saddlebag on her back, and is 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. She notices her daughter's worried expression.  Discord noticed his daughter's expression was rather sullen and worrisome this morning.  “Fuzzball, what’s wrong?” Discord asks.  “Daddy? Where is Owl-wishes? I went to go check on him this morning, but he wasn’t there. But his cage was wide open.” Harmonia explains.  He will never understand why his own daughter loved that bird.  “My guess is that Owlicious found his other bird friends in the Everfree Forest.” Discord said, fibbing a bit.  However, Twilight wasn’t buying his story, her eyebrows raised. “You know what then again, owls do love mice so maybe he found a mouse, chased it out of the castle and then he possibly found true love.” Discord said, as he second guessed himself.  Twilight, on the other hand, wasn’t buying it. Discord looked over to his wife. “What? He could have! You never know about those nocturnal creatures.” Discord explains.  Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, can you go see if your Aunt Starlight can take you to school?” she asks her daughter sweetily.  “Sure mommy.” Harmonia beams, and hurries off.  Twilight turns back to Discord, her expression unamusing, with her book in hoof, she rams it across his head. I’m sure the smack could be heard from all throughout the castle.  Discord rubs his head. “What was that for?!” He asks.  “You know perfectly well what that was for!” Twilight said. “One for lying and two for getting rid of Owlicious.” “How do you know it was me?” Discord questions, his tone innocent.  “Tempest.” Twilight explains.  Discord rolled his eyes. “Dang it! I forgot about the berry horse being Twilight’s guard.” He thought.  “Well that’s what the bird gets for trying to have an owl duel a few years back.” Discord huffs.  Twilight looks at her husband, slightly confused. “Wait… what?” she asks.  Discord sighes. “It’s a long story.” He mutters.  Twilight, who was clearly unamused, looked at her husband with a deadpan expression. “This is why we can’t have nice things, Discord.” she said, before walking off to find Harmonia. “To be fair that owl wasn’t even nice in the first place.” Discord said, calling after her.  ***  “Aunt Starlight is impossible to wake up and she snores so loud, I thought Uncle Spike might have came over last night while we were asleep.” Harmonia explains.  Twilight lightly giggles at her daughter’s statement. “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 to the moon for a thousand years! I am such a busy pony! So much royal duties! Yet, I get Twilight to do all my dirty work. Isn’t that right, Princess?” 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 gives 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 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 gulps down her breakfast. She grabbed her saddlebag and waited for her parents to get ready.  *** Celestia stands outside of her school, the School of Magic for today was the first day of a new semester.  As new students, some under the ages less than 10, pass by Celestia she greets each of them with a warm formality.  “It’s so nice to have you here!”  “Welcome!”  “I know we will have a fantastic school year together!” Celestia beams.  *** Twilight,Discord and Harmonia awaited til it was Harmonia's turn to go into the school.  “Mommy! Do I have to go here?”  Harmonia complains, she knew that she was different than everypony else here so why did it matter that she went here or not?  “Sweetie, this is the exact same school that I went to when I was around your age. And Celestia is a fantastic teacher, I think you’ll learn a lot being here. Maybe even make a few new friends.” Twilight said.  “But why are they all unicorns?” Harmonia asked.  “You can’t just ask somepony why they are all unicorns.” Discord said, slightly chuckling.  Harmonia rolls her eyes. “Okay let me rephrase that. Why is nopony here different from me?” Harmonia asked.  “You my dear, are special. You’re mother and I both see potential in you. Why do you think your mother sent you to this school?” Discord asked.  “To show off?” Harmonia questions.  “Yeah-Wait no! Trust me no one here likes a show-off.” Discord mutters the last bit to himself.  “But having magic makes you a part of who you are. Mommy said that.” Harmonia said.  “Yes but I also enrolled you into this school because I want you to make friends but also show that being different is okay.” Twilight said, softly smiling at her.  Harmonia smiles back. “.... okay.”  Her eyes widened as she saw Princess Celestia walking toward 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 Harmonia, are you ready for your first day?” Harmonia slowly nodded, showing the princess that she was excited but also a bit nervous.  “Wait… how do you already know my name?” Harmonia asked, slightly confused.  Celestia softly giggled. “Your Mother also went to this school when she was a filly! She was one of my top students in my class.” She said, giving a warm smile to Twilight. Twilight smiles back. 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.  Celestia lightly giggled at Discord’s comment, but also thought it was sweet that he cared for his daughter. “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.  Harmonia hugs her mother and father. Princess Celestia watches sadly as she wishes that she had a family like that. She shakes it off the feeling 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 classroom.  *** 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 about 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 the classroom door.  “Yeah, I’m probably worried about nothing,” Harmonia thought to herself. “And don’t worry, the Entrance exam isn’t as scary as everypony makes it out to be.” Celestia explains. Harmonia stops dead in her tracks. “The Entrance- what now?” She asked. “The Entrance exam, everypony who’s new to the school has to take one.” Celestia explains. “Did your mother not tell you?” Celestia asked, concerned. “Somewhat…” Harmonia said, her tone bashful. Celestia lightly giggled. “Well I’m sure you’ll do just fine. Besides all parents are there to moral support their children.” She said, giving her a light smile. The pair walked down the hallway, by passing all the rooms held students who were learning something new. “Are there not any teachers here? Like mom has at her school.” Harmonia asked while making small talk with Celestia. Celestia giggles. “As much as I want to say no this school is accredited to the EEA guidelines. So basically I’m the only one running the School of Magic. Aside from the professors who are the oversee who gets into my school. ” Celestia explains. “But I thought you-” Harmonica states, but Celestia cuts her off. “Yes, I may be a Princess, but even a Princess can’t do everything that she likes.” Celestia explains. This left Harmonia silent for a moment, before Celestia and her stop in front of a door. “Here we are! I wish you good luck.” Celestia said. Harmonia looks at the double doors, slightly shaking as she lets out a shaky breath. “.... I can do this.” Harmonia thought to herself. She opens the double doors that contain her fate. *** Harmonia waited for her turn as she stood fiddling with her paws as she stood outside the testing room. She didn’t know why she was so nervous. She knew her magic was fine but...what if she did something wrong? What if she somehow messed up? What if they didn’t allow her in because she wasn’t a unicorn? Could they do that?? Could they kick her out if she wasn’t a unicorn?? What if-- “Hey, Fuzzball, you okay?” Twilight asked, stroking her daughter’s mane gently. “You’re shaking a lot.” "Okay?" She said, obviously very nervous, "Of course I'm okay! I mean…why wouldn't I be??" Twilight giggled slightly. "Oh Harmonia…you have no reason to be nervous! You'll do amazing! You'll do a lot better than you think you did." Harmonia nodded, but it still didn't help her nerves. "I'm going to go sit in the waiting room." Before Twilight could protest, Harmonia ran off into the waiting room. She sighed in relief. *** “Okay, okay, okay,” Harmonia thought, “What can I do to get myself calm? Uh…chocolate milk! I like chocolate milk! Maybe that will-” "Hey are you okay?" Somepony asked. She looked up and saw two unicorns looking at her. She smiled slightly. "Oh hey!" Harmonia said, a little relieved. "What are you two doing here?” "Well…it is test day." Said the first unicorn. “"I ran into him after my test." "I told her to stay until after." The other explained. "How'd you all do?" Harmonia said, walking over to sit by the two, they seemed rather friendly. The first shrugged. "I don't know, honestly. I thought I did terrible but my parents seemed to think otherwise." "I did alright." The other said. "They seemed impressed but who knows." “Hopefully they won’t be too tough to impress.” Harmonia mutters. "Harmonia?" Harmonia and the other two all turned and looked at Twilight who was standing in the door. "Oh, there you are!" Twilight said. "Come on! It's time for your test!" Harmonia got up, really nervous. The two noticed this, but wished her Good luck!” Harmonia smiled at the two. "Thank you!” *** Harmonia stood in front of 4 judges in a small lecture hall. Twilight, Discord and the other two students were waiting- Jewel, and Cotton Berry all stood to the side and smiled from the sidelines. "Are you…Harmonia Sparkle?" One of the judges asked, looking at her clipboard. "Yeah, I am." Harmonia said, not too timidly but it was still obvious she was nervous. She looked once again at Harmonia, then said, "Harmonia Sparkle you will have 5 minutes to impress us with your magic. Your time starts-" "Hold on." A unicorn on the far right said. "You can't possibly expect somepony with no horn to pass this test! I mean…look at her! She doesn't even have a horn!" Discord looked like he was ready to kill the unicorn while Twilight held him back. Jewel and Cotton looked away, knowing that this unicorn talked bad about them too. The other unicorns didn't look annoyed. They listened, as if they wanted to hear what she had to say. "Puny magic tricks and sleight-of-hoof aren't real magic!" She said, "Besides, that's probably all she's capable of!" "Now, hold on Poison." The unicorn who had originally asked if that was Harmonia. "While she may not be a unicorn, we allow the tests of all sorts of creatures. Whether or not they pass is a different thing." "Hold on! That doesn't seem fair!" Jewel said. "That girl has magic! She just doesn't-" "Silence!" The unicorn named Poison said. "Why did we let those other two in here?! They've already taken the test and might have given Harmonia information on the test! They shouldn't be here! Especially since their performances were astronomically under-average!" Harmonia, who had been sitting there taking in everything they had said, finally snapped. Without even realizing what she was doing, she had teleported over to Poison. She floated just inches away from her. "What…did you just say?" Her voice was dark and low. Poison didn't seem intimidated. "You heard what I said, creature. You don't scare me and you'll never be a real unicorn." Then, she snapped. “QUIET!” she screams. In a huge yell of anger, Harmonia had released all the emotion-driven magic within her in one foul swoop. The magic pushed Poison back, plowing her through all the chairs behind him before he hit a wall. The other 3 judges were pushed to the side and all of their horns had disappeared off of their heads. They shrieked in horror. The magic reached Discord, Twilight, Jewel and Cotton Berry. Her magic had turned Discord into a plush toy, it had turned Twilight into a baby again, it turned Jewel into a beautiful purple Jewel and Cotton Berry into a large Blueberry bush. Poison looked up right as Harmonia grabbed Hera by the neck with her eagle claw and lifted her off the ground. "I may not be a unicorn." She said as she looked up at him. Her pupils were tiny, insane-like. She smiled like a maniac. I'm making Daddy proud, she thought deviously. "But I can still do stuff you would wish were only in your nightmares." She snapped her paw and in an instant, Poison was trapped within her own mind, unable to escape, forced to live through his worst fears. She turned around and looked at the scene. The judges were still freaking out, one had even passed out. The Discord plush was now being played with by the baby Twilight, who spun it around in the air like an airplane. The Jewel and Blueberry bush were still in the same place, untouched. Harmonia felt strangely powerful. Oh if only Crystal was here. She would finally be able to show her just how powerful she was. She felt…good. No…great. She laughed because she felt in control for the first time in her life. She rose slightly off the ground. "Who this much Chaos would be so much…" Harmonia said, "...fun~" Little did Harmonia know, but a certain Princess had seen the light show that was currently going on from inside the room. As Harmonia continued her Chaos, changing things to make it more towards her liking and even making herself a celebratory glass of chocolate milk, Princess Celestia walked in. At first, she was surprised to see what Harmonia had done, but that quickly went away when Harmonia saw the Princess. “Princess Celestia?” She asked, confused. And almost as soon as the chaos had come, it went away. The judges got their horns back and they were relieved. Twilight and Discord were back to their normal selves, though Twilight had been playing with the plush Discord so Discord was currently flying in the air because of Twilight’s magic. They looked at each other confused, before Twilight lightly set her husband down. Cotton Berry and Jewel returned to normal, although Cotton Berry stood there beyond confused and Jewel made sure she was her normal self again before lightly collapsing on the floor in relief. Poison had gotten out of her trance but he still stood very still and was breathing heavily in fear. Mostly in fear of having to go back in. “Harmonia…” Celestia said, absolutely amazed. “I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.” Harmonia said, as tears welled in her eyes. “I didn’t mean to break the classroom.” Harmonia wimpers. “I’ll tell you what if you break something I can fix it.” Celestia said. “Huh?” Harmonia questions. “This school is for young ponies like you, Harmonia, who are still learning new things and are needing help controlling their powers such as yourself. You can start today if you’d like.” Celestia said, smiling at her. “What?!” One of the professors said, in disbelief. “But, she’s a draconequus.” Stated another. “She literally turned this entire room into… chaos! You can not have a student like that in your classroom.” Stated the second one. “And?” Celestia said, raising an eyebrow. The professors said nothing. “If all is in order I’ll--” Celestia said, but Harmonia cuts her off. “But their opinions are right, Princess. I don’t belong here at all.” Harmonia said, her ears downfolded. “Nonsense, Harmonia I knew you had a magical ability, but…” Celestia said, still trying to process it all, “I didn’t know it was this powerful-” “Please, please, please don’t kick me out!” Harmonia pleaded. “I know I may have gone overboard, but I promise that it was only a one time thing!” Celestia looked down at the scared and sad Harmonia confused, but then she giggled slightly. “Oh, Harmonia,” Celestia said, gently patting Harmonia on the head, “Why would I kick out someone with so much potential?” “Huh?” Harmonia asked. “What I’m saying Harmonia is that I would like you to join my School of Magic.” Celestia said. She looked toward Twilight and Discord. Twilight was smiling brightly and Discord gave her a thumbs-up. Harmonia looked back at Celestia and smiled. “Heck yes!” *** “This will be your classroom. I hope you enjoy your time here. I will be in a few to start with today’s lesson.” Celestia said, calmly. Harmonia nodded happily as she watched Celestia walk away to gather her learning materials.  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 unexpected look on his face. “Uh? Can I help you?” Harmonia asks, her look unassured.  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.  She walks back to the back of the classroom and sits down at her table.  She gazes down. “Why did mother have to send me here? Why couldn’t I have gone to her school instead.” She thought.  “Hello, is this seat taken?” Came a light British mixed with French accent asked. The voice belonged to 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.  Harmonia looks up at the unicorn with confusion. “Are you sure you want to sit with me? Everypony else seems to think otherwise.” Harmonia mutters while looking at the few fillies and colts who stare at her either out of fear, curiousity or disgust.  “I don’t mind, really! I’m Jewel! Jewel Bliss! So you're the new pony- er….” Jewel stopped and tried to figure out what Harmonia really was.  “Draconequus.” Harmonia corrected.  “.... okay, draconequus around here.” Jewel said.  Harmonia scoffs. “That obvious huh?” She mutters.  Jewel sits down beside her. “Kind of, Yeah.” She said, giving her a light smile. “I’m a Year 2 student here, this is my second year attending.” Jewel said.  “I’m only just beginning as you can tell.” Harmonia said, pulling a little at her mane. She did that whenever she was nervous.  “Well, don’t worry you’ll like the Princess.” Jewel assures her.  Harmonia smiles back, the door open to reveal Princess Celestia not only was she the Ruler and Leader of Equestria, but she was also a teacher of her own school.  “Sorry I’m late everypony!” Celestia said, walking in.  “Good morning Princess!” The class of seven said in unison.  “Welcome to Fundamentals of Magic, the class where you'll begin your extensive magical education with me, Princess Celestia.” She said. “Now let's put the "fun" in "fundamental", shall we? Magic is a mysterious force that takes many forms in our world. Magic can be big and bold, ancient and majestic, or even wacky and wild. Each of our magical abilities are different, from the signature color of our magical auras, to other unique talents, such as... a silly sixth sense.”  “You mean that’s a thing?” Cotton Berry asked.  “Indeed! Some ponies develop skills quite early on and their magic manifests in unique ways. Like a... continuously moving mane.” Celestia giggles.  “Your magic must be harnessed through focused study and practice. Take heed though. If harnessed for the wrong reasons, your magic can turn dark, too. But if you have your heart and mind in the right place, there is no end to the incredible feats that you can achieve!” Celestia said smiling.  “Now, Which two would like to demonstrate a conjuring spell?” Celestia asked. No pony raised their hoofs.  Crystal then raised her hoof.  “Okay Crystal, pick who you would like to go against.” Celestia said.  “I pick…” Crystal said, surveying the room.  “You.” Crystal said, looking at Harmonia. “You mean the scholarship pony?” Someone mutters.  Harmonia stood up from her seat, and walked to the front of the classroom.  “Okay girls, you can conjure whatever the students say. For example: say a rubber mallet. Then one or both of you can conjure it. Got it?” Celestia said.  “Mhm.” Harmonia said. “Yeah, sure.” Crystal mutters.  “Ready? And go.” Celestia said. “A chicken!” Jewel shouted.  “We don’t do live animals, Jewel.” Celestia said.  “Fine, a rubber chicken.” Jewel repeats. “That’s better.” Celestia said.  Harmonia and Crystal both materialized it into existence.  “A rubber mallet.” Said another.  Conjured.  “Confetti.” Shouted another student.  Conjured.  “Donuts?” Another student shouts.  “Is that all you think about is food?” Giggles another.  “What! I’m hungry.” They wined.  Harmonia whips up a donut for the young pony.  “Thanks.” They said, smiling at Harmonia. “You know what I heard goes great with donuts?” Crystal said.  Crystal conjured up a cup of iced coffee.  Harmonia looks confused at first, knowing no other student has said anything about a beverage.  “Maybe you shouldn’t um.” Said another.  “Crystal.” Cotton Berry warns.  But it was too late, Crystal then drencheds Harmonia in its sweeting flavor, leaving her speechless.  Cotton Berry looks at Harmonia really unsure of what to exactly say. “Hey, are you okay.” Cotton Berry asked.  Harmonia who was soaked, and stunned mutters out. “O-of course. Maybe I should just go...“   “No, wait.” Cotton called out, but Harmonia gave him a sorrowful look.  “.... I’ll be fine.” Harmonia mutters.  Harmonia glares at Crystal, wishing she could use her powers on her like she did in the exam room, however she just couldn’t bring herself to hurt other innocent lives.  “Crystal!” Celestia said, her voice stern.  But that’s the only thing Harmonia heard before leaving the classroom.  *** “There you are!” Jewel said, looking at Harmonia.  “Hi! I’m Cotton Berry! Sorry about early I-“ he said, but Harmonia cuts him off.  “Freaked out and ran away,” Harmonia asked. “Don’t worry I’m used to it by now.” Harmonia muttered.  “What do you think you're doing?” Cotton Berry asks.  “I’m going home!” Harmonia said.   “Why?” Cotton Berry asked.  “Because! I don’t like being known as the scholarship pony! And I don’t enjoy having iced coffee in my mane.” Harmonia said, looking at her friends.  “Don’t worry we’ll get you some cream and sugar, and a paparazzi to make sure they get your good side, everything will be okay Princess.” Cotton Berry said, lighting the mood.  Harmonia rolls her eyes. As she ignited her magic to teleport home, Cotton Berry blows it out.  Harmonia tries again, but Cotton Berry blows it out once again.  “Hey! Stop un-igniting my magic.” Harmonia complains.  “No. You're gonna quit this school on your first day, just because of one mean filly?” Cotton Berry asked.  “It's not just Crystal! It's just... I don't fit in here with... All this.” Harmonia said, waving her paw around.  “You're not normal either.” Cotton Berry said.  “You don’t say.”Harmonia said, sarcasm leaking through her voice.  “Look, we both saw what you can do in that Exam room, besides you turned me into a blueberry and Jewel here into a literal jewel. You're special. You're fantastic. You belong at this school, besides being normal is boring.” Cotton Berry said, before walking back to class.  “He’s right you know. You do belong at this school. So don’t quit, if not for us then for yourself.” Jewel said before walking back to class.  *** Harmonia walks down the hall. She gazes upon the artifacts that were 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. Celestia was about to round her corner to get more supplies for the other classrooms when she overheard Harmonia talking. However the hallways were empty hinting that she was indeed alone at this moment.  “Why did Mommy pick me to attend this place? I don’t fit in here, I’m different from everypony here. I stick out like a sore thumb.” Harmonia mutters as she lowers her head.  Celestia took Harmonia's response as her cue to go and make sure her student was alright.  “Harmonia, are you okay?” Celestia wonders.  Harmonia ears perked up as she quickly masks her insecurities with a smile.  “Yes, Princess! Why would you ask?” Harmonia wonders.  “It’s just that I overheard you talking and-” Celestia starts, but Harmonia cuts her off.  “You know I should really get to heading outside, before break is over.” Harmonia said, before quickly hurrying off.  “No, wait.” Celestia calls out, but she was too late. Harmonia was already gone.  Celestia gazes at the picture of Twilight when she was a filly, she softly sighs before going back to doing what she had planned in the first place.  *** “I’m surprised you decided to stay especially after that ice cold incident.” Crystal said rudely. Harmonia rolled her eyes and avoided eye contact. Crystal scoffed and looked towards Jewel.  "What are you even doing hanging out with her anyways Jewel? You know as well as I that she doesn't belong here." Crystal sneers.  "She has a right to be here just like everypony else." Jewel said, defending her new friend.  "Yes, everypony but she isn't a pony only half. Besides, Aunt Twilight told me about her existence when I was seven and she was only three when I first met her." Crystal said, gazing at Harmonia.  Jewel looks at Harmonia then at Crystal.  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? Why don't you go back to the Canterlot Gardens where you belong.” Crystal replied, flipping her mane from one side to the other.  Harmonia growled. She ignits her paws and blasted a dark pink electric storm cloud near Crystal. Crystal screams as she falls to the ground, landing in a nearby mud puddle.  “How dare 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.  “But I thought we were friends?” Harmonia mutters.  “Princess Celestia will hear about this!” Crystal said, walking away from her. Jewel sadly followed behind her as Harmonia stood there in horror.  *** "Harmonia Sparkle, mind telling me what just happened. Crystal, your cousin, came to me about telling me that you were the one that started a fight in the courtyard." She said, her voice slightly stern. "If you ask me, she's twisting her story. If you need proof or think I'm lying then I'll happily get Jewel Bliss to vouch." Harmonia said, defending herself. "Honestly you're mother didn't cause this much trouble as a filly when she was your age." Celestia chides. "And I wouldn't have either if Crystal didn't cause trouble. Believe me I've known her since she was three. I know she hates me for some odd reason." Harmonia said. Celestia sighs. "I'll have a talk with Crystal if that will make you feel better. However, I do not condone fighting here at my school. Your mother brought you here to make friends, did she not?" Celestia asked. "I guess, but 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. "By fighting?" Celestia questions. Harmonia shook her head no and sighed. "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. “So, your saying I should give this school  a second chance?” Harmonia asks. Celestia smiled gently down at her.  “Exactly!” She beams.  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 would 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. *** “....... One of the best ways we can harness magical energy is through the careful use of spells. When you think of a spell, you might imagine a set of words that you say aloud. But they aren't always spoken as an incantation. Sometimes, spells can be concocted in a bubbling pot and turned into a magical potion, found in a rare plant species, or even by reading from the pages of an old ancient tome and accidentally creating new magic. It's true that spells are complex and take lots and lots of practice. You might have a little trouble at first, nopony gets it right on the first try.” “However, students, don't be shy about attempting spellwork. Some of the greatest ponies in history, such as Star Swirl the Bearded, have achieved great things employing spells as a magical conduit. Just don't use them to make ponies fall in love or to cut corners in your assignments. And just to be safe, we should all probably stay away from time travel. But simple spells can still be very useful.” Celestia said.  “But can’t magic also be used for evil intentions?” Asked Jewel.  “Of course! Magic can provide so many wonderful things for us here in Equestria. It aids the Pegasi in creating our beautiful weather, the Earth ponies in growing our delicious crops of fresh food, and allows the unicorns to create useful items that benefit all ponies. But magical power is not simple. It has the ability to change the pony who uses it. And not always in a good way. For example, one of the most powerful sorcerers of all time has spent most of his life using his powers to inflict chaos in Equestria. Queen Chrysalis —-“  “Wait, is she talking about your father?” Jewel whispers.  “I don’t see what he has to do with any of it?” Harmonia mutters, as she sits there thinking to herself.  “So, as you see, magic can be a marvelous tool or it can be a heavy burden. And should you ever find yourself becoming overwhelmed by the dark power of magic, I happen to know a group of ponies that pull you back into the light.” Celestia said smiling.  The bell rings once again, signaling that it was time to go home. "Okay students, that's all for today! I will see you all first thing tomorrow morning. Please be safe." Celestia announced as the students left.   ***  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 daughter's mane.  “It was great, daddy! I finished Magic School!” Harmonia said, her tone gleeful.  Discord and Twilight both looked at each other slightly confused. “Uh... no. That- That- That was just orientation sweetie.” Twilight said, lightly laughing.  Suddenly Harmonia's entire mood shifted as she remembered what her first day consisted of.  “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 once again for a split second. Twilight looks back down at her daughter, but this time Discord spoke for her. “Sure, fuzzball let’s go home.” He 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? Harmony you were happy a few minutes ago until I noticed your mood shifted. 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 has 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!” 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. 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.  “Thank you for the offer though, but No thank you Discord.” Twilight 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 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 a distance, before returning back to wherever they came from.