Discord. The Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony. He couldn't possibly understand what love is, right? Well, with a little help from a purple princess, he's going to understand it perfectly.
Discord didn't understand it. It seemed as if one day, she's totally annoying, and the next, she's totally adorable. Could it possibly be love? Oh, such an idea is preposterous! The Spirit of Chaos in love? Ridiculous. But, in time, he may find that love isn't such a bad thing.
It had been nearly a month since Tirek had been imprisoned.
One month since Discord had joined sides with the escapee from Tartarus.
And, once again, Discord was trying to get used to the many disapproving glares that ponies would send his way.
Just when they were finally starting to get used to him, he betrays them all for that magic-stealing centaur.
To put it simply, he was back to where he was prior to his reformation.
The only difference now was that he was actually sorry, and he was willing to change and take his reformation seriously.
All thanks to a certain Princess of Friendship.
-----
Discord lounged in his thinking tree, trying to come up with something to do.
"Now, let's see here. What to do, what to do?"
He summoned a glass of strawberry milk.
Discord smirked, "It's nice to switch things up from time to time." He took a sip, actually drinking the liquid instead of the glass.
Once the glass was empty, Discord looked at it disapprovingly, "You know, I think I'd have preferred the glass, now that I think about it."
He tapped his fingers together, "Okay, now I'm bored. And boredom is something of which I will not put up with. What to do?"
With a sigh, he teleported back to his home.
He flopped onto his floating couch, laying down on his stomach.
In front of the gravity-defying couch, a small mushroom-cap table floated into his line of sight.
On that table were several pictures: one of him and Fluttershy, a group photo of the him and the Element Bearers, and one more.
Discord grabbed the last picture. It had been taken on the day that he had pretended to be sick to mess with Twilight.
A blue Discord had his arms wrapped around Twilight and Princess Cadence. Each princess bore a look of annoyance.
Discord chuckled, "Oh, that was a fun day. To think that Little Miss Bookworm went all the way to the ends of Equestria for me. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside."
He blinked as he processed what he had just said.
"Did I really just say 'warm and fuzzy?'"
Another Discord appeared next to him, "Yes. Yes, you did." As quickly as it came, it vanished.
Discord sat up, "Oh, sweet chaos! I am going soft. That's not a good sign. But, still..." He snapped his fingers, causing his half of the locket he had awarded Twilight to appear.
"I wonder if she kept the other half."
-----
Twilight and her friends stood in front of what remained of the Golden Oak Library.
A sad feeling of nostalgia crept into each pony present as they recalled wonderful memories made at this particular library.
Twilight sighed, wiping a tear from her eye, "It's hard to believe that it's already been a month. One whole month since..." She choked back a sob, covering her face with a hoof.
Rarity walked up next to her and wrapped a hoof around the weeping princess, "Oh, I know, darling. We all made wonderful memories here."
Applejack chuckled sadly, taking her hat off, "Yeah, we sure did."
Fluttershy looked up at the burnt-up library, "I can't even begin to imagine how I would feel if my house was burned up."
"Buuuuut," Pinkie jumped, wrapping her hooves around Rarity and Twilight, "now, Twilight has a brand, spanking-new castle." She pointed a hoof towards the Palace of Friendship, the crystal spire at the top beautifully reflecting the sun's rays.
Rainbow Dash swooped down the ground, "Yeah, plus we got the Cutie Map. That's something."
Twilight sighed, "I guess you're right. But, it still hurts."
Spike hugged the alicorn's legs, "It's okay, Twilight. I miss the library, too."
Twilight smiled, lowering her neck over Spike, "Thanks, Spike."
She looked up.
"Well, we're certainly not going to get anything done if we continue dwelling on the past. Let's do what we came here for. See if you can find anything not completely burned to a crisp."
With that, the six mares and dragon split up, scouring for anything salvageable.
Fluttershy poked around at a large pile of ash. She squinted her eyes at a small bump among the ashes, indicating that something was buried under it.
She dug through the pile, coughing every once in awhile. Eventually, she spotted something.
She hauled it out of the ashes, "Oh, Twilight. I found your horse bust."
Twilight glanced over at Fluttershy. Her eyes widened at the sight of the not-totally-destroyed, horse-shaped piece of wood.
"Oh, wow!" Twilight levitated it over to her, inspecting it. "I didn't think this would survive. I guess it's a good thing I decided to move it up to my room. I don't think my room received the brunt of the explosion. Sure, this is a little chipped around the edges. And, I probably can't get it to stand straight anymore, but still, it's in good enough condition. Nice work, Fluttershy."
Fluttershy beamed, "Happy to help."
Applejack waved away some dust that was being created with her hat, "I'm surprised there are thangs in here that aren't completely destroyed."
Rainbow Dash blew away some ashes with her wings, making it land on Rarity, staining her pristine white coat.
Rarity let out a horrified shriek, "Rainbow Dash! Oh, do you know how long it'll take to wash this off!? I look FILTHY!"
Rainbow scoffed, "None of us are exactly beauty queens right now either. Just shake it off. You can spend two hours in the bath when we're done."
The slightly blackened unicorn turned her head in an offended manner. For retaliation, she kicked a pile of ash in Rainbow's direction.
Rainbow yelped as some of the ashes entered her eyes, "Oh, so you don't like being dirty, but you're willing to play dirty?"
"GIRLS!"
Everypony turned towards the alicorn.
Twilight snorted, "We're never going to get anything done if you continue to bicker about meaningless things."
"Meaningless?" Rarity raised an eyebrow.
A quick glare from Twilight silenced Rarity instantly.
The Princess of Friendship took a deep breath, "Now, if you all are done, we can get back to work. It shouldn't be too much longer."
Begrudgingly, the quarreling mares called a truce and went back to searching.
Pinkie hummed a tune to herself as she looked through piles of ash.
"La la la. La la la. La la la - Huh?"
A small glint of light caught her eye. She looked around, trying to find the cause of it.
Eventually, she found it. It was slightly buried under a pile of ash, mixed with pieces of glass.
Pinkie excitedly dug through the pile, being careful not to cut herself, and not too long afterwards found what she was looking for.
"Oooh. Hey, Twilight?"
Twilight poked her head over another pile of ash, "Yes, Pinkie? Did you find something?"
Pinkie held up what looked like a locket. It was a bit rusty and charred on the edges, but one could make out its shape: one half of a heart.
Twilight levitated it closer to her. She squinted at it, trying to make out the picture.
Once she did, however, she wasn't so sure she wanted to keep it.
"Well, what is it, darling?" Rarity trotted over, looking cleaner than she had a few minutes prior.
Twilight rolled her eyes, "You girls remember the day Discord was pretending to be sick?"
Applejack scoffed, "How could we forget? Ah couldn't stop sneezin'. That dirty snake played us."
Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes, "Yeah, and if that wasn't bad enough, he ruined your day with Cadence."
Twilight nodded, "While all of those are true, it turned out that him faking sick was just a test to see if I was still his friend. If I am to believe him."
Pinkie bounced over next to Twilight, "Didja pass?"
Twilight shrugged, "Well, according to him, I did. He made me and Cadence drag him to the ends of Equestria for a cure that he didn't need. And, I guess that was proof enough of our friendship. He gave me this locket as a 'reward.'"
Fluttershy smiled, "That was nice of him. But, where's the other half?"
"He has it. Or, at least, I think he does. I don't even know why I kept this. " Twilight was about to throw it back into the ashes, but something made her stop.
Rarity raised an eyebrow, "What is it, darling?"
Twilight took a closer look at the locket.
She smiled, thinking back to the day she had received. "You know, if Discord hadn't given me his little 'test,' Cadence wouldn't have gotten the thrill and action that she had been wanting. And, oddly enough, Cadence and I became closer because of it."
Applejack squinted an eye, "So, what're ya saying? Are ya actually grateful that Discord ruined your day?"
Twilight chuckled, "I guess in a way I am. And, while I don't appreciate how he wasted my time tending to him, it all worked out in the end. Plus, in the end, he actually did get sick. I'd say he got his just desserts."
"Dessert!? Where?" Pinkie looked around for dessert.
Twilight raised an eyebrow but shook her head at the pink mare.
Fluttershy flew over to her, "See? Discord isn't as bad as you girls make him out to be."
Twilight nodded, "For once, I agree with you, Fluttershy. He's actually a lot of fun, once you get used to the whole reality-warping and physics-breaking."
Spike crossed his arms, "And, you're okay with him breaking the laws of physics?"
Twilight shrugged, "Why not? I deal with Pinkie every day."
Pinkie grinned, "You got that right." She winked.
Twilight giggled, "So, I'm going to keep this. I mean, I'm the Princess of Friendship. And, as the Princess of Friendship, I need to lend the hoof of friendship to everyone and everypony. Discord is no exception."
Applejack sighed and chuckled, "Well, Ah guess we ought to try make friends with 'im, too."
"Ugh, do we have to?"
Fluttershy furrowed her eyebrows, "Rainbow Dash."
Twilight put a hoof on Fluttershy's shoulder, "It's okay, Fluttershy. You all don't have to like him, especially after what he did. But, if you could, put the past behind you. There's nothing you can do to change it. Discord knows that full well, and it's going to take time for ponies to start accepting him again. The least we could do is to let him know that there are some ponies who don't hold what he did against him."
Rarity flipped her mane, "That's a pretty tall order, when you think about it."
"I know it is. And, it doesn't have to be right away. I myself am going to keep a close eye on him. He could have another relapse at any moment, and we need to be ready just in case. But, if we offer him our friendship, the smaller the chance of him turning on us again."
Pinkie grinned, nodding her head, "Makes sense to me!"
"Ah guess you have point there, Twi. But, ah still don't trust him."
"And, you don't have to. What he did has definitely fractured the trust I had in him. But, I think this time, he's genuinely sincere. And, we need to be supportive."
Spike poked Twilight's leg, "Uh, why are we still talking about Discord? I'm getting hungry. Are we done now?"
Twilight looked around at the objects they had managed to salvage.
She nodded, "Yeah, I think we're done here. How's the Hayburger sound? My treat."
Rarity walked over to the alicorn and wrapped a hoof around her shoulder, "That sounds delightful, but I simply must teach you some manners, Twilight. A princess must be elegant and know proper etiquette, and no offense, dear, but you could definitely use a refresher."
Twilight blushed, "I'm not that bad, am I?"
Spike nudged her, "You kinda are."
Twilight rolled her eyes, "Okay, whatever. Let's drop this stuff off at the castle, then we'll head on over."
With that being said, the ponies and dragon headed towards the Palace of Friendship.
Discord and Fluttershy were having their weekly Saturday tea party - although Discord would prefer calling it brunch.
Despite the fact the Discord had betrayed her, she still insisted on having them, to which he was rather grateful for.
Discord threw a double chocolate cookie into his mouth, "Mmm! These cookies are simply deeelicious. I commend you, friend."
Fluttershy smiled, "Thank you, Discord. I actually borrowed a cookbook from Spike. so I could try out some new recipes. I'm glad these turned out so well. I was afraid they might burn." She grabbed two cookies for herself and Angel.
"I would've eaten them anyway. I love burnt food. My favorite is burnt orange juice." He licked his lips, summoning a glass of black juice, which he claimed to be orange juice.
"Ahh, now that's the stuff right there. I might like this better than chocolate milk."
Fluttershy wrinkled her nose as Discord drank the blackened liquid.
He noticed her uncomfortable state.
Discord placed a hand over his chest, "Oh, where are my manners? I should've offered you some, too. Here you go."
He summoned another glass of black orange juice and offered it to the yellow pegasus.
Fluttershy waved her hooves, "Oh, no - um...that's okay. I'm, uh - lactose intolerant."
Discord raised an eyebrow, "This isn't milk."
Fluttershy hid behind her mane, "Oh...right. Uh, no thank you, Discord. I'm good."
Discord stared at her then shrugged, "Suit yourself." He took the glass he had offered to her and chugged down its contents in no time at all.
Fluttershy cleared her throat then perked up as she remembered something.
"Oh, that's right. I forgot. Discord, Twilight's invited all of us to dinner tonight at her castle. She wanted me to ask if you'd like to join us."
Discord blinked, "Twilight wants me to join you? Twilight?"
Fluttershy nodded, "Yeah, she feels like you should be included."
Discord gave a sincere smile, "Wow, I'm rather touched. I didn't think Princess Sparky actually cared about me."
"Well, of course. You're our friend, Discord."
Discord's sincere smile remained. Twilight actually wanted him to join her for dinner along with the other ponies.
He paused. Why was he so happy about that?
He silently decided to tease the princess the moment he saw her about this, to shake off any fluffy stuff he might have been feeling.
"So, would you like to come?" Fluttershy's voice broke his thoughts.
Discord's smile turned into a smirk, "Why, of course. I'd be a foal to pass up an opportunity like this. The feast is tonight, right?"
A nod from Fluttershy gave him his answer.
"Well, then I'd better get ready. I'll see you later, Fluttershy. Thanks for the cookies."
With that, he vanished in a flash of white light, temporarily blinding poor Fluttershy.
"Oh dear..."
-----
Twilight Sparkle placed a set of candlesticks on the crystal dining table. She lit the candles with her magic, giving the candles a small, but beautiful glow.
Spike walked in, carrying a large silver tray in his claws. He tediously made his way over to Twilight, who nervously watched as he tilted dangerously to one side, threatening to spill the tray's contents onto the floor below.
For caution's sake, she levitated the tray out of his claws, relieving him of his burden.
Spike wiped his brow, "Whew. Thanks, Twilight. It would've been a shame to let all of this good food go to waste."
Twilight nodded in agreement, "Indeed, Spike. Did you make your famous nachos?"
Spike chuckled, striking a proud pose, "Of course, I did. Wouldn't be a real dinner party without them!"
Twilight giggled, "Well, they'll definitely spice things up. Heh, get it? Because nachos are spicy...?"
Spike sighed at his surrogate sister's attempt to be comical, "Well, it's an improvement I guess."
The purple alicorn cleared her throat awkwardly, "Anyway, the girls should be arriving in about half an hour. We have some time to - "
"Oh! A party. This is definitely my kind of setting."
Twilight and Spike jumped at the familiar voice.
"Discord?"
In a burst of confetti, the infamous Spirit of Chaos appeared proudly and in no way subtlely. "Ding ding ding! You are correct. You win tonight's special prize."
Twilight raised an eyebrow, "And, what would that be?"
Spike hid behind the alicorn, "No, Twilight! Don't accept any prizes from him. Knowing him, it'll be a rubber snake that actually moves."
Discord landed on the ground, sporting an offended expression, "Twilight, you would do well to teach your dragon some manners. And, to be a bit more creative. I give that idea a 2.75924501389951 - "
"Oh, what do you know?" Spike blew raspberry at Discord.
Discord gestured to Spike with both hands, "You see what I mean?"
Twilight rolled her eyes, "All right, knock it off, you two."
Spike and Discord simultaneously turned away from each other, each bearing pouty lips and crossed arms.
Twilight sighed, "Seriously, stop acting like colts. Spike, you're more mature than that."
Spike relented a bit at that.
She then turned to Discord, "And, you should know better, too."
Discord rolled his eyes, a smirk on his face, "Sure, whatever you say, Mom."
Twilight raised an eyebrow but then gained a smirk of her own.
She lit up her horn, and Discord felt a short electric shock jolt his body.
He jumped as tiny sparks danced across his fur, which began to stick up due to static electricity.
After the sparking subsided, Discord sent a nasty glare towards Twilight. He snapped his fingers, causing his frazzled coat to return to its original state.
"That wasn't funny."
Twilight snickered, "To you, maybe."
Spike hid his snickering behind his claw, "It was pretty funny."
Discord whipped his tail towards them, causing both of them to cease in their laughter.
"You know, Princess Bookworm, if you want lessons on comedy, I'm available Oneday and Someday."
Twilight's eyelids leveled as she gave Discord a deadpan stare, "Thanks, but I think I'll pass."
Spike scratched his head, "I don't get it."
The draconequus patted Spike on the head. "Poor Spike. You've spent too much time with Miss Stick-In-The-Mud here." He floated over to the alicorn next to him and gave Twilight's mane a good, hard rub, much to her dismay.
Twilight broke free from Discord's grasp. She took a deep breath and gave Discord a pleasant smile, doing her best to mask her annoyance and trying to apply what she had said a few days prior.
"So, Discord, how are you doing? I'm glad you decided to join us for dinner." She stopped, suddenly giving him the stink eye. "That is the reason you're here, right?"
Discord placed a paw on his chest, "Oh, Twilight, you wound me. You don't think my intentions are to create mischief and chaos, do you?"
"Are they?"
He let out a chuckle, "Heh, no. Not this time. I mean it. Although, it may just come naturally. You know me." He winked at the princess.
Twilight sighed, "All too well."
Discord grinned, "And, you know, I must say, I am deeply touched by you reaching out to me. Really and truly." He curled around the purple alicorn, wrapping his talon around her shoulder.
"When you knew full well that I may or may not behave myself. Is it possible that you finally trust me?"
Twilight levitated Discord's arm off of her and trotted a few feet away from him.
"I can't say I fully trust you yet. I'm sorry to say that what you did fractured any trust I may have had for you."
Discord deflated as his shoulders slouched. His ears drooped at the reminder of his deeds.
"Well, I suppose there's no need to argue with that."
"But..."
Discord's ears perked back up at that three-letter word, "But what?"
Twilight offered him a genuine smile, "I believe in giving everypony a second chance. I may not have acted that way when you were first reformed, but I want you to know that I have forgiven you. You made a wrong choice, one that's going to have repercussions. But, I'm not going to hold any ill will towards you. I'm willing to forgive and forget, if you are as well."
Discord raised an eyebrow, "Well, the forgetting part I can do. But, who am I forgiving? You? You didn't do anything."
Twilight was about to respond when her ears perked up at the sound of the front double doors opening.
She turned to Spike, "Spike, could you escort our guests over here please?"
Spike gave a salute, "Yes, ma'am." With that, the little dragon scurried out of the dining hall.
Twilight giggled before turning back to Discord, "I'm guilty of not being a good friend to you. I was always so anxious and worried that you might turn evil again. That one wrong word could set you back. Especially since we had given up the Elements. There was nothing hindering you from taking over Equestria again."
Discord waved a paw at that, "Eh, I've tried twice, and I've failed twice. Of course, my first reign lasted much longer, but that's neither here nor there. You ponies would have figured out some way to defeat me anyway. I didn't want to take any risks."
Twilight smiled, placing a hoof on his paw, "Well, I guess I had nothing to worry about after all. But, now when I say that we're friends, I mean it."
Discord returned her smile, his heart fluttering slightly, for reasons unknown to him.
He bent down and wrapped his arms around the pony. Much to his surprise and satisfaction, she returned the hug.
They didn't notice the arrival of the Element Bearers, who watched the scene silently with mixed feelings.
Rainbow Dash eventually decided to break the ice. She cleared her throat.
Twilight and Discord quickly pulled away, each bearing awkward expressions.
Twilight stood up, walking towards her friends, "Girls! It's so nice to have you."
"We wouldn't miss for the world, darling." Rarity smiled.
"Were we interrupting something?" Rainbow Dash crossed her hooves, looking pointedly at Twilight.
Twilight glanced back at Discord, who gave a wave.
"No, not at all. Discord and I just came to an agreement."
Fluttershy beamed, "Oh, I'm so glad. Hi, Discord." She waved a hoof, and he waved back.
Applejack licked her lips, rubbing her hooves together, "I don't know 'bout the rest of y'all, but I am one hungry pony. Let's eat."
-----
The dining table was filled with foods of all kinds. Spring rolls, mushrooms, mashed potatoes, nachos, corn, apple fritters, dinner bread.
Twilight's friends ate until they couldn't eat anymore.
Rainbow let out a hearty burp, "I am stuffed." She rubbed her full stomach.
Pinkie let out a burp of her own. She giggled, "Excuse me."
Rarity wiped her mouth with a napkin, "Thank you ever so much for having us over, Twilight."
Twilight grinned, "Don't mention it. I'd like to do this more often if you all are interested."
Discord gave a thumbs-up, "I second that motion."
Pinkie raised a hoof, "I third that motion."
Fluttershy raised a hoof as well, "Um, I do, too."
Applejack nodded, tilting her hat up, "I wouldn't mind that. Although, you ain't doin' all the cookin'. We can have it at Sweet Apple Acres next time around."
Rainbow pumped a fist, "Aw, yeah. I call first dibs on the cider."
Everypony rolled their eyes at that.
Spike reached for another dinner roll, "I don't care where we eat as long as there's food."
Twilight giggled, wrapping a hoof around Spike, "Is food all you think about?"
Spike crossed his arms, "No, but it is a good thing to think about."
"Oh, speaking of food, here, Spikey-Wikey." Rarity levitated a large blue sapphire over to the purple dragon.
Spike's eyes widened at the gem, and his cheeks warmed up at that thought of who was giving it to him. "F-for me?"
Rarity flipped her mane, "I just wanted thank you for giving up your time in helping me finish my latest line."
Twilight blinked, "You helped Rarity finish her designs?"
Spike rubbed his tail, his face slightly red, "Well, it wasn't all me. The Crusaders helped out as well."
Rarity nodded, "They did indeed. And, for once, they didn't completely ruin everything. We had a few minor mishaps, but nothing short of fixable. I think Sweetie Belle and her friends are starting to mature. Oh, I'm so proud of her."
A tear nearly escaped Rarity's eye, but she was quick in wiping it away.
Discord held up a claw, "Now, wait just a minute. Spike, you actually endured her for that long?"
Rarity gasped, "And, just what do you mean that?"
Twilight hid her face behind her hoof, "Probably not the best wording there, Discord."
Spike crossed his arms, frowning, "I don't endure her. I do it because I want to. We're friends, and friends help each other."
Discord mused over that comment, unsure of what to make of it.
"You didn't get tired?"
Spike shrugged, "It didn't that long. But, even if it did, I would've continued helping anyway."
Rarity put a hoof to her heart and levitated Spike over to her, "Oh, Spike. You are the sweetest dragon in Equestria." She nuzzled his head, causing him to melt.
Rainbow Dash pointed a hoof at her mouth, "Okay, that's enough sappiness for one day."
Fluttershy gently swatted Rainbow Dash on the shoulder, "Rainbow Dash, there's no need to be rude."
Applejack gave a harder punch to the cyan pegasus's foreleg, causing her grimace in pain.
"Yeah, R.D. Save those comments for afterwards."
Rainbow rubbed her leg, "Ow. Okay, fine. There's no need to get violent."
Pinkie giggled, "Oh, don't be a sour grumpy puss, Rainbow Dash. Let's see a smile on that face." Pinkie stretched Rainbow's mouth to form a crude-looking smile.
Rainbow Dash shook Pinkie off and shot into the air.
She crossed her hooves, "Hey, keep your hooves to yourself."
Before she knew it, Pinkie Pie had her hooves wrapped around the pegasus.
Rainbow tried to shake her off again, but the pink mare wouldn't budge.
"Hugs are fun for everyone!"
Rainbow Dash relented, patting Pinkie's hoof, "All right, all right." She descended back to the floor.
"You can let go now, Pinkie."
Pinkie released Rainbow Dash, but not before giving her a good, long mane rub.
"Ugh."
Twilight giggled, "This is what friendship is all about, Discord. Spending time with your friends can be very enjoyable. We're not as boring as you might think."
Discord nodded, "You know, you may be right. Although, a certain group of individuals could stand to loosen up a tad bit more. I'm not naming any names here." He smirked, looking directly at her.
Twilight's ears flattened as so did her eyebrows, "Hey, I've loosened up plenty since moving to Ponyville. Spike can attest to that. Right, Spike?"
Spike shrugged, waving his claw in a so-so manner, "Eh, I guess compared to the old you. But, you still need some working on."
Discord laughed, pointing at Twilight, "Ha! See, even your dragon agrees with me."
Twilight grinded her teeth, "Shows what you know."
Fluttershy walked next to Twilight and gave her a hug, "Don't worry, Twilight. We like you just the way you are."
She turned to Discord, "And, there's no need to tease Twilight either, Discord. How would you feel if we teased you?"
Discord rolled his eyes, "I'd take your insults as compliments most likely. And, it's not my fault she's so easy to rile up."
Twilight narrowed her eyes. But, they quickly softened, and she gained a mischievous expression.
She lit up her horn, little sparks dancing around it. She pointed her horn directly at Discord.
"Would you like an encore, Discord?"
Discord clenched his jaw tight as he realized what she planned on doing.
He huffed, "Oh, fine. I shall keep my comments to myself."
Twilight smiled triumphantly as her horn glow disappeared, "Wise decision."
Discord stretched his arms above his head, "Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but I am ready to hit the hay. I had a simply marvelous time. We absolutely must to this again. Ta ta, ladies."
With a flash of light, Discord vanished.
"I'd say that went well." Pinkie grinned.
"I must admit, he wasn't as terrible a company as I had anticipated." Rarity looked at her hoof.
Fluttershy beamed, "See? You just have to get to know him."
"Ah say he still has some work ta do."
Twilight nodded, "Of course."
She smirked, "But, he wouldn't be Discord if he didn't."
Ever since the dinner party, Discord started to hang out with the girls as often as he could. It didn't really matter what they were doing.
If he was going to take this friendship business seriously, he had to be open to any and all suggestions, although he gave his fair share of ideas.
And, surprisingly, Discord's suggestions would often get an unanimous vote.
On this particular day, Princess Celestia invited the group over to Canterlot to witness the grand opening of the newest section of the Royal Sculpture Garden.
In honor of saving Equestria so many times, Princess Celestia had a small sector of the garden dedicated to the Harmony Bearers.
Naturally, they were all excited to go. And, Discord didn't want to be excluded, so he joined them.
Unfortunately, his actions of the previous month were still very fresh in everypony's mind. And, not everypony is willing to forgive.
-----
"OH! I am SO excited!" Pinkie bounced in place rapidly, a huge smile on her face. "This is the best thing EVER!"
Rarity finished applying her eyeshadow and started to straightened her eyelashes. "Yes, truly a momentous occasion."
Applejack sat on her haunches with her hooves crossed, "Ah don't see what the big deal."
Rainbow Dash flapped her wings ecstatically, "Are you kidding? There are statues of us in the Canterlot Sculpture Garden! Now, everypony will know how awesome I am!"
She was met with disapproving glares and raised eyebrows.
Rainbow chuckled sheepishly, "Uh, I meant how awesome we are. That's what I meant to say."
Discord huffed, "I wish that could've been said about me. But, no ponies passed me without a second glance, thinking that I was nothing more than another statue. They didn't realize that behind that stone cocoon lay a ferocious beast that no one could tame."
Twilight put a hoof to her chin, "Huh? I wonder who you're talking about."
Discord glared at her, "Ha ha. Hysterical. That was so funny I forgot to laugh."
Fluttershy raised a hoof, "Um, I don't mean to interrupt. But, when does our train leave?"
"10:00. Why?"
The yellow pegasus pointed to a clock on the wall, "Well, it's already 9:50, so maybe we should be going?"
"9:50?!"
"Um, yes?"
Twilight frantically stood up, "Oh, how could we lose track of time? Spike, you got our bags?"
Spike leaned against a pile of bags, "Yup. But, don't expect me to carry everything for you."
Rainbow flew down, grabbing her saddlebags, "This is why I pack light. Unlike somepony. Rarity."
Rarity flipped her mane, "Well, excuse me. We're only heading to Canterlot, the most sophisticated city in Equestria. I don't want the Canterlot Elite to view me as uncouth."
Fluttershy put a hoof on Rarity's shoulder, "We don't think you're uncouth."
Rarity smiled, patting Fluttershy's hoof, "I know, darling. But, none of you are from Canterlot. Well, aside from Spike and Twilight."
Twilight chuckled, "True we were raised in Canterlot, but I never saw the need to be pompous like the rest of Canterlot. Of course, being Princess Celestia's student I was pretty well-known. Even if I did confine myself in solitude for most of my life."
Spike pointed a finger at the purple alicorn, "Yeah, there were a few occasions where you threatened to beat some reporters upside the head if they wanted an interview."
Twilight blushed, "Spiiike."
Rainbow burst out into a laughing fit, "Ha! I'd have loved to have been there."
Discord wiggled his eyebrows, "Oh, yes, I can totally see you doing that. Beware of the Bookworm. She'll beat you with an algebra book."
"Don't we have a train to catch?"
Discord dramatically flourished his claw, "Ah, yes. Allow me."
With a snap of his fingers, the group disappeared from the throne room.
-----
With a sudden flash of light, the group appeared on the Ponyville Station platform, startling the ponies already there.
With the exception of Twilight who was used to long-distance teleportation, the mares and dragon all stumbled to regain their balance.
Pinkie wobbled around dizzily, "Whoa. My stomach feels all queasy-weasy."
Applejack held her head, "You said it."
Discord rolled his eyes, "Oh, just shake it off. You be glad I didn't teleport us all the way to Canterlot; you'd be feeling it a whole lot more. Trust me."
Twilight sighed, "We don't have time for this. Everypony, on the train."
Twilight and her friends walked onto the train, passing the conductor, though not the usual one.
Discord began to walk in, only to be stopped by the conductor.
He was an earth pony, much younger than the normal conductor.
The new conductor cleared his throat, "Um, e-excuse me, sir. I apologize, b-but w-we have a policy about not l-letting v-villains onto the t-train."
Discord stiffened up. He was still considered a villain?
Twilight and her friends heard this as well.
And, Twilight instantly became furious.
Discord rubbed the back of his neck, "Uh, I - well -
"What seems to be the problem here?"
Discord and the conductor turned their heads towards the alicorn. Discord gave a sigh of relief.
The conductor gasped, "Oh, Princess Twilight!" He instantly threw himself into a bowing position. "How may I help you, Y-Your Highness?"
Twilight held a stoic expression. She raised her hoof, "Arise."
He slowly stood back up, noticeably sweating.
"You're not the usual conductor, am I right?"
The young stallion nodded, "Yes, Your Highness. My father has been under the weather lately, so I've been filling in for him. I'm Brass Tracks."
Twilight gave a nod of acknowledgement, "Nice to meet you. Now, why are you not letting Discord on the train?"
Brass gulped, "Uh, w-well, h-he's a villain. And, I c-can't let a villain on the train."
Twilight's eyebrows furrowed, "He hasn't committed a single villainous deed in a month. Are you talking about his involvement with Tirek?"
The young conductor rubbed his neck, "Well, yes?"
Discord sighed, "It's okay, Twilight. I'll meet you girls at Canterlot." He readied his fingers to snap.
"Don't you dare snap those talons!"
The eagle claw immediately lowered to his side.
Twilight took a deep breath, "Look, I know what Discord did labels him as a villain, but he deeply regrets joining sides with Tirek. He's good now. He's technically still on probation, so we won't let him out of our sight. Let him on the train."
Brass hesitated but didn't relent, "I-I'm s-sorry, Your H-Highness. B-but, m-most of the population s-still sees him as - "
Twilight leaned towards the stallion, narrowing her eyes, "Need I remind you that you are speaking with the Princess of Friendship? Let him on the train, and there won't be any trouble."
Discord's eyes widened as Twilight was nearly threatening the poor conductor so that he could ride the train.
Brass Tracks threw himself at the alicorn's hooves, "Okay! Okay! He can ride the train. Just don't throw me in prison! I'm engaged to a pretty mare, I have a great job! I can't have that taken away! Please, Princess, have mercy!"
Twilight backed up, "Hey, hey. No need to panic, I'm not going to throw you in prison. You were only doing your job. Thank you for being so understanding. Come on, Discord."
She nodded her head towards the door of the train.
Discord seemed in a daze, still not believing what he had just seen. He felt a strange warmth spread over his serpentine body.
"Discord?"
He snapped out of his stupor, "Uh, right behind you." He quickly followed her onto the train.
Brass Tracks stood up shakily and wiped his brow. Not a moment afterward, he boarded the train himself, making sure to stay as far away from the Princess of Friendship as he could.
-----
"You know, you didn't have to do that."
Twilight nodded firmly, "Yes, I did, Discord. Otherwise, you would've been stuck waiting for us for about two hours."
Discord shrugged, "I would've found something to do. Prank a couple of Canterlot snobs maybe."
Rarity raised an eyebrow, "Yes, and create an even worse name for yourself? I wouldn't recommend doing that."
Rainbow Dash scoffed, "Hey, they need to be pranked a couple times over. Teach them how to live a little."
Twilight shook her head, "Look. The point is that you shouldn't be banned from the train just because of what you did. Why can't ponies just forget the past and move on?"
Discord shrugged, crossing his arms, "Well, in a perfect world, everypony would. But, Equestria is far from being the perfect paradise everyone on the outside claims it to be."
Pinkie bounced on the seat, "I like living in Equestria! We always have so much fun here."
Fluttershy smiled, "Don't worry, Discord. I'm sure everypony will forget about what you did soon."
Discord chuckled flatly, "You'd think that, wouldn't you? But, I've found that you ponies can hold grudges for a long time. Well, not you girls. Every other pony in Equestria."
Applejack waved a hoof, "Now don't go thinkin' like that. We ponyfolk ain't as bad as ya make us out ta be."
Twilight nodded, "Applejack's right. But, some ponies tend to hold on to the past longer than they should. It'll take time, but I'm sure Equestria will accept you again."
"I hope you're right."
About an hour later, they felt the train screeched to a halt.
"We have arrived in Canterlot. Please gather your belongings and swiftly exit the train. Have a wonderful day."
With that being said, the ponies, dragon, and draconequus gathered their bags and exited the train.
-----
The Element Bearers trotted through the streets of Canterlot, Discord and Spike bringing up the rear.
As they walked, they noticed that they were receiving some rather nasty glares.
Rainbow Dash frowned, "What's with the looks? Don't they know who we are?"
Twilight followed their gazes, trying to figure out what they were staring at.
Or rather who.
Twilight glanced back at Discord, who had already figured out just what they were casting their eyes on.
Twilight groaned and stopped walking, causing Rarity and Fluttershy to bump into her.
"Seriously?"
Discord huffed, "Don't worry, I was expecting this. I figured Canterlot would be disapproving of me."
Pinkie sent equally nasty glares to the Canterlot civilians. "Well, they're all being a bunch of Mean Ol' Judgey Pants. Glare back at them. Let them feel intimidated."
Rarity nudged Pinkie in the ribs, "Pinkie, it's not polite to stare."
Applejack nudged her head towards the Canterlot ponies, "Tell that to them."
Twilight slapped her forehead, "This is ridiculous. Come on."
Without much of a warning, Twilight teleported the entire group over to the castle.
Due to them just getting over the motion sickness from Discord's teleportation, Twilight's unexpected transport once again left them all a little discombobulated.
Spike wobbled around, "Uh, Twilight? Maybe you could warn us before you do that?"
Twilight sighed, "Sorry, everypony. But, this beats getting stared down at."
Discord huffed, "You're not the ones getting the stares."
Twilight placed a hoof on Discord's paw, "It doesn't matter. We're friends. And, if they stare down one of us, they stare down all of us."
Discord smiled but quickly frowned as that odd warmth spread through him once again.
Rainbow scratched the back of her neck, "That doesn't really make sense."
Pinkie bounced up and down, "I think it makes perfect sense!"
Rarity inspected her hoof, "Well, I don't know about you, but I really would like to get to the Sculpture Garden."
Fluttershy raised a hoof, "So would I."
Twilight gasped, "Oh, I totally forgot. Come on, everypony."
They all walked towards the entrance to Canterlot Castle.
Two guards were positioned at the drawbridge.
As Twilight and her friends approached, the stallions each bowed in respect.
"Your Highness, Princess Celestia would like you to meet her in the throne room."
Twilight nodded, "Thank you, sirs."
The group walked through the archway and into the castle.
Discord floated next to Twilight, bearing a smirk. "Ah, I see you didn't tell those nice guards to call you Twilight. Have you finally decided to embrace your Princessness?"
Rainbow Dash put a hoof to her chin, smiling, "Oh, yeah, right. You usually have them call you Twilight."
Twilight gave them a sideways look, "I only spoke with them for about a minute. And, besides, Royal Guards are trained to show royalty the utmost respect. Though I would prefer being called Twilight, I'm not going to get bent out of shape because they call me Your Highness."
Spike rolled his eyes, "I keep telling you, Twi. You're a Princess. Ponies are allowed to call you Your Highness and Your Majesty."
Twilight sighed, "I know. I know. Oh, we're here already."
The Princess of Friendship opened the double doors of the throne room with her magic, and they all walked inside.
Princess Celestia was sitting on her throne, talking with her sister Princess Luna.
At the sound of the doors opening, both princesses turned their heads towards them.
Celestia smiled as her former student walked in along with her friends.
She gracefully descended from her throne, meeting the group halfway.
"Twilight, it is always wonderful to see you and your friends." She wrapped a wing around the younger princess.
Twilight smiled, leaning into the elder alicorn's embrace, "It's always good to see you, too, Princess."
The two alicorns pulled away. Celestia raised her head, "I hope you all had a pleasant journey here."
Discord scoffed, his arms crossed, "Oh, yeah. If you count getting the stink eye from nearly everypony around pleasant, then yes, it certainly was. Thank you so much for asking, Tia."
Celestia raised an eyebrow, "I beg your pardon?"
Twilight sighed, "Apparently many ponies still view Discord as an enemy. He almost couldn't ride the train."
Discord smirked, teleporting next to Twilight and giving her a long head rub. "Sad, but true. Thankfully, Ms. Sparky here was able to pull a few strings to get me to ride. Even though you probably traumatized that poor colt for life."
Twilight pulled away from Discord's grasp, smoothing out her tousled mane, "I did no such thing."
Discord snickered, "Didn't seem that way seeing as how he was literally on his knees begging for mercy."
Twilight glared at the draconequus, "Discord! You - "
Celestia raised a hoof, "All right, enough."
Luna bore a stoic expression, "I do not intend to be rude, but you brought this upon yourself, Discord."
Discord cringed, "Thanks for the reminder."
"Don't worry, Discord. The ponies of Equestria are loving individuals. They will be able to look past your actions in time." Celestia tried to reassure him.
"We'll see."
Rarity raised a hoof, "Do forgive me, Your Highnesses, but shouldn't we be heading to the Garden?"
Princess Celestia smiled and nodded, "Of course, Rarity. If you all are ready, we can depart."
And so they did. With Celestia and Luna leading the way, the group followed.
-----
The ponies walked through the Sculpture Garden, admiring all of the statues that they passed.
Discord, however, viewed the place with slight distaste. The memories of being frozen in stone replayed in his mind.
He knew exactly where he had stood for over a thousand years. As they approached the spot, Discord couldn't help but glare.
Twilight and Fluttershy noticed this. Twilight nodded her head towards the draconequus.
Fluttershy gave a nod of agreement. Both she and Twilight trailed behind to meet up with the chaotic spirit.
Fluttershy put a hoof on Discord's paw, "Discord, are you okay?"
"As if today hadn't brought up enough bad memories."
Twilight raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean?" She followed Discord's line of sight. He was staring at a marble pillar.
There was nothing on top of it. Twilight knew that she had seen it before but couldn't quite place what it was.
Discord huffed, jumping on top of the pillar and striking a pose.
Fluttershy and Twilight both let out small gasps as the two ponies realized what they were staring at.
Discord jumped off of the pillar, eyes narrowed in anger.
"One thousand years is a long time, you know. For one thousand years, I was encased in stone. It's not very comfortable."
Twilight nodded, "I was frozen in stone, too. But, only for about an hour thanks to Fluttershy." Twilight sent a smile towards her pegasus friend.
Fluttershy returned the smile, "I'm glad I was able to free you. Who knows what would have happened if I hadn't been there?"
Discord seethed, "Well, you got lucky. If only somepony were able to set me free. Not that they would have anyway. I know I deserved to be punished, but being a stone statue for a thousand years? That was a little extreme, in my opinion."
Fluttershy shuddered at the thought, "I can't even begin to imagine."
Twilight looked up at him with concern. She hadn't realized how much Discord had hated being trapped in stone. When they had released Discord from his prison, he didn't seem too upset about it, just relieved to be free.
But, then she remembered the horrified look on Discord's face when he realized that the Elements were working. He was utterly terrified.
Twilight's ears drooped. She looked up at Discord with concern. "I'm sorry, Discord. I didn't realize. Do you want to go? If being here makes you uncomfortable, you don't have to stay."
Discord waved a paw nonchalantly, "Nah, I'm good. I appreciate the concern, but I just need to take my mind off of it. Let's get to that unveiling, shall we?"
The two ponies and Discord started to walk ahead.
For good measure, Discord snapped his fingers. When he did, the stone pillar exploded into tiny pieces, a few hitting the back of Twilight's head.
Twilight and Fluttershy looked back and were shocked to see the pillar destroyed. They looked at Discord with uncertainty.
He shrugged, "What? It's not doing anypony good just standing there. Besides, it's worthless anyway."
In a little while, they were able to catch up with the rest of the group.
-----
The ponies were speechless.
A red ribbon was being held in place between two hedges. Beyond the ribbon, the Element Bearers were able to see the statues of themselves.
Twilight was in the middle, surrounded by the statues of her friends. Each wore their Element proudly, bearing determined expressions.
Rarity fanned herself, becoming overwhelmed, "Am I seeing correctly? Oh, that is simply marvelous."
Rainbow Dash grinned, "If that isn't the definition of awesome, then I don't know what is."
Celestia chuckled, "I'm glad you all approve." She glanced at the crowd of ponies that had begun to form.
She levitated a large pair of scissors over to Twilight.
"Princess Twilight, would you do the honors?"
Twilight bowed her head, "Of course." The lavender alicorn took the scissors in her magical grasp.
With one smooth cut, the ribbon fell to the ground.
"I hereby declare the Statues of Harmony free for public viewing." Celestia announced, causing the ponies present to cheer.
And not a moment after that, every equine entered the newest sector of the gardens, admiring the statues of Equestria's most famous heroes.
Rainbow Dash flew directly towards the statue of her. She landed next to it, striking the same pose as the statue.
"Aw, yeah! Just as I said. Awesome."
Rarity approached her statue. She pulled a hoofkerchief from her saddlebags and wiped off a bit of dirt that covered the forelegs.
"There. Now, it's perfect. Oh, such incredible likeness!"
Pinkie jumped on top of hers and hugged it, "You can't even tell the difference! Who cares if they don't have any color?"
Fluttershy walked over to her statue, "They're all very nice."
Twilight approached her statue, inspecting it closely, "I must admit, they look better than I thought they would."
Discord floated around the statues of the mares, deciding what to make of them. "Eh, not bad. I've seen better."
Twilight rolled her eyes, "Of course, you'd say that."
She looked over at Princess Celestia and noticed that she was talking with two ponies, a mare and stallion.
Twilight didn't mean to intrude, but one word caught her ear.
Discord.
Twilight gawked. She could tell from their expressions that weren't saying anything friendly.
She looked over at Discord, who seemed to be paying no attention to them.
Twilight groaned, "This is getting out of hoof."
She trotted over to Princess Celestia and the conversing ponies, whom she recognized to be Jet Set and Upper Crust, a rich couple in Canterlot.
As the two ponies saw Twilight coming, they turned their attention away from Celestia and towards the Princess of Friendship.
"Ah, Princess Twilight, we were hoping to get a word with you." Jet Set bowed his head.
"Yes, quite. There are some matters that we must speak with you about." His wife Upper Crust took a step towards the Princess.
Twilight looked at Celestia, who gave her an apathetic shrug. The Princess of the Sun patted her on the shoulder before walking away.
The purple alicorn looked back at the couple, "Matters regarding what, exactly?"
Upper Crust wrinkled her nose in disgust, "It is about your...guest."
Twilight already knew who she was talking about but decided to not make it known.
"And just what guest are you speaking of?"
Jet Set narrowed his eyes, pointing at the Spirit of Chaos, who was lounging on top of Rarity's statue, much to her chagrin.
"Him."
Twilight looked back at Discord then at the two ponies.
Her eyebrows furrowed, "And, just what do you have against him?"
Jet Set cleared his throat, looking at his hoof, "Well, there is the small matter of him stealing our magic. And, we had thought that Your Highness would have given him a suitable punishment. He clearly doesn't deserve to roam free."
Twilight gritted her teeth, then an idea struck her.
She lit up her horn, and Discord soon found himself floating over to the princess.
Discord, not appreciating being levitated without his consent, snapped his fingers and teleported out of Twilight's magic.
He instead opted to floating over to her himself. "You know, you could've just asked."
Upper Crust and Jet Set looked appalled at the sight of the infamous Lord of Chaos in front of them.
Discord raised an eyebrow, looking down at Twilight, "Did I miss something?"
Twilight grinned, "Not at all. I was just talking with these nice ponies about you."
Discord squinted an eye, "Really, now? Anything good?"
Twilight turned to the two ponies, "Would you two care to reiterate what you just told me to Discord? I'm sure he'd love to hear about it."
The couple looked at each other uncertainly.
Upper Crust cleared her throat, trying to think of words kind enough to not provoke the draconequus. "Well, we just thought that every wrongdoer should face some sort of punishment. Is Equestria condoning treason?"
Discord huffed, "Oh, that's what this is about. I'm not interested." He began to walk away, but Twilight's magic pull on his tail kept him from moving.
He groaned, "I've taken a trip down memory lane one too many times today."
Twilight gave him a look, one that could only be read as Trust Me.
Discord sighed, "Fine. I'll stay." He crossed his arms.
Twilight smiled at him then turned back to the couple, "To answer your question, Mrs. Crust, no we do not condone treason. However, we will condone turning over a new leaf. And, that's just what Discord has done. You regret everything you did, right, Discord?"
Discord's ear drooped slightly, "Yes."
"And, you mean that?"
Discord rolled his eyes, "Yes, Twilight. Of course, I mean it. You want it written on paper?"
Upper Crust and Jet Set seemed unconvinced at the spirit's laid-back response.
Twilight sighed, "He may not act like he does, but I can tell he truly means it. He's done everything in his power to make up for what he did. I can honestly say that Discord is now truly reformed. Before, I couldn't be so sure."
Discord rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, "Yeah, truth be told, I really wasn't taking it seriously. Not that you could tell, seeing as how brilliant an actor I am."
Twilight chuckled flatly, "Oh, yes, you'd definitely make on Bridleway."
"Do I detect sarcasm?"
Ignoring him, Twilight turned back to the couple, who had been relatively quiet. "Anyway, point being, Discord's no longer a threat to anypony. What happened is now in the past. There's nothing we can do to change it. So, the best thing to do is just to forget about it and move on."
Jet Set looked at his wife then back at the Princess.
He cleared his throat. "Uh, yes, well. Thank you, Your Highness. We shall take your advice into account. Excuse us."
With that, the rich couple trotted away from Twilight and Discord.
Discord shook his head, smiling at the pony next to him, "You don't have to keep doing that, you know. This is like the third time today."
Twilight grinned, "I know I didn't have to. But, I wanted to."
Discord maintained his smile, "You are so nice, it's disgusting."
Twilight giggled but then took on a serious expression. "Discord, I'm fine with bailing you out. But, I'm not always going to be around. If you come across ponies who still view you as a threat, you need to be able to convince them otherwise."
Discord put his paw to his chest in mock surprise, "You're going to make me talk to ponies? I don't think I can handle that."
Twilight put her hoof on his claw, "You can. I trust you." She winked then trotted off to her friends.
Discord repeated those words in his head.
I trust you.
Discord smiled, feeling that strange warmth spread across his body again.
It was happening more and more frequently. The first few times he just ignored it, but at this point, it was pretty much impossible to ignore.
And, Discord didn't exactly like it.
Whenever he was around the Princess of Friendship, a warm, tingly sensation would spread throughout his body.
Discord wanted to blame the mild summer weather, but he knew that it was something different.
And, not the good kind of different. Well, it was, but he didn't quite realize it yet.
And, above all, he was enjoying Twilight's company far more than he ever had before. The pony who he thought was a total organizational freak, turned out to have a chaotic side all of her own.
And, the way she so fervently stood up for him, something within him appreciated that more than he cared to admit.
He found himself blushing occasionally at the princess's kind words towards him. And, any direct contact between them sent a pleasant chill down his spine.
And, being the great Spirit of Chaos that he was, these warm and fuzzy feelings he was feeling couldn't have been anything good.
But, what exactly was he feeling?
Well, he couldn't worry about that today. He had a beach to get to.
-----
"Let's see. Sunscreen?"
"Check."
"Towels?"
"Check."
"Umbrella?"
"Check."
"Snacks and drinks?"
Spike chuckled, "Like we'd forget that. Check!"
Twilight giggled, "Indeed, Spike. And, pail and shovel?"
Spike held both of the items in his claws, "Check. And, I'm planning on making a big castle this time. I can't wait to get to Atlantrot City! We haven't been to the beach in forever."
Twilight nodded, setting her checklist down, "It has been a long time. It'll be nice to feel the warm shore breeze again."
Spike grabbed a pair of sunglasses and placed them on his head, "Yeah, I know. And, with all our friends there, we're going to have a blast."
"A blast indeed." A familiar mischievous voice echoed throughout the throne room.
Having already identified the newcomer, Twilight merely rolled her eyes, "Hello, Discord."
With a pop, Discord appeared before the two, decked in the traditional beach wear. Sunglasses adorned his face. An orange Haywaiian shirt covered his brown furry chest.
Discord set his glasses on his head, having them rest atop his mismatched horns.
"Aw, how'd you guess it was me?"
Spike scoffed, "Believe me, it's pretty obvious."
Twilight smirked, raising an eyebrow, "Besides, only you would invite yourself into somepony's place without permission."
Discord put a finger to his chin, "I didn't know I needed permission to enter your castle. Is this a recent law?"
Still maintaining her smirk, she replied, "I might just make it one for you."
Discord placed his hands on his hips in a mock-offended manner, "You wound me, Twilight. That wouldn't be very princess-y of you, now would it?"
Twilight chuckled, "No, I guess not."
Discord chuckled back, noticing that her sense of humor had improved dramatically. Perhaps she wasn't such a big stick-in-the-mud after all.
...No, he couldn't think about that now.
Discord cleared his throat, "So, Alantrot City, eh? What a way to spend such a wonderful day!"
Twilight nodded, grabbing her saddlebags with her magic and setting them on her back, "I couldn't agree more. Actually, we should be heading to the train station now to meet the girls."
Spike scurried up onto her back, adorning a large bag on his own back. "How long is the train ride, Twi?"
Twilight shrugged, "Only about an hour. We'll be there in no time."
Discord raised his paw, "I could just teleport us all there."
Twilight sent him a disapproving glare, "Must you accomplish everything with magic?"
Discord raised an eyebrow, "And, you don't?"
Twilight opened her mouth to speak but found herself unable to think of a comeback.
Spike covered his smirk with a claw, "He got you there, Twi."
Discord crossed his arms triumphantly, doing nothing to hide his smirk, "Well said, Spike. So, is teleporting a yes?"
Twilight sighed, "No. Discord, you don't have to teleport everywhere. Do you see me teleporting everywhere?"
Discord let out an exasperated groan, "Oh, fine. No teleporting. But, Her Royal Snootiness should be traveling in style. Why not ask for a royal chariot?"
Twilight set a hoof onto her face, "No chariots, Discord. I'm not completely comfortable riding in them, and besides, there's only room for me. We're taking the train. No exceptions."
"Way to be a real joykiller, Ms. Sparky. May I at least teleport to the station? It'll save us time, and I know for certain that you enjoy being punctual." He looked at her with a knowing smile.
Spike nodded, "He's got a point, Twilight."
Twilight simply rolled her eyes, "Fine, whatever. Sure, Discord."
Discord grinned, flourishing a furry finger. "Off we go." With a quick snap, the three disappeared from the throne room.
-----
Not too long afterwards, the group boarded the train, preparing to reach their destination.
Pinkie, with a flowery lei around her neck, bounced excitedly in her seat next to Fluttershy.
"I love the beach. I love it almost as much as I love fudge! And fudge is really good. Do you think they have fudge on this train? I want fudge!"
Rarity sat with a mirror levitating in front of her. Her mane was in a ponytail, and a large summer hat adorned her head.
"Pinkie, calm down. I'm sure we can find some fudge on the boardwalk. Oh, I simply can't wait to go boardwalk browsing. The little shops and stands always sell the cutest of items."
Fluttershy smiled, "May I join you? Angel's birthday is coming up soon, and I want to get him something."
"But, of course, dear. The one thing I love more than shopping is shopping with my friends." Rarity beamed, setting her mirror down.
Applejack leaned back in her seat, "I don't know about ya'll, but ah'm looking forward to relaxin'."
Rainbow Dash held up her surfboard, "Not before we catch some waves, A.J. I want to see you get wiped out."
Applejack scoffed, "Like that'd ever happen."
Twilight smiled, putting a hoof around Spike, "I'm just glad we'll be able to spend time together. There's nothing I like better than hanging out with you girls."
Discord cleared his throat, "And, what are Spike and I? Spoiled oats?"
Spike crossed his arms, "Eh, I've gotten used to it. At least there's another guy in the group."
Twilight looked at both of them and smiled, "And, of course, I enjoy spending time with you two. You are just as important to me as the girls. You're my friends after all."
Discord looked away, a blush threatening to form on his cheeks, "Oh, come on, you're just playing us. Your words are too kind to be true."
"And, they are. If you're my friend, you are important to me. And, since you are my friend, Discord, you are are important to me."
Discord smiled, once again feeling that strange warmth, and somehow he didn't entirely mind it.
"Arriving at Alantrot City Station. Please gather your belongings and swiftly exit the train. Have a wonderful day."
"Last one in the water is a moldy tomato!" Pinkie quickly ran out of the train car, leaving behind a trail of pink smoke.
"Hey! If anypony's gonna be a moldy tomato, it'll be you!" Not a moment after, Rainbow dashed out of the car, attempting to reach the ocean before her pink friend.
The others exited the train in an orderly fashion, not caring about getting to the water first.
-----
The group reached the beach. It wasn't terribly crowded. Ponies were scattered here and there, some in the water and some in the sand.
Twilight took a deep breath, "Ah, smell that salty sea air. Don't you just love the smell of the beach?"
Rarity shook off her sand-covered hooves, "It certainly is wonderful. Although, I could do without the burning, hot sand." She levitated two pairs of lavender hoof shoes out of her saddlebags and placed her hooves in each of them.
"Now, that's better."
Discord floated on his back, his sunglasses resting on his eyes, "Lucky for me, I have an advantage."
Twilight raised an eyebrow and smirked, flapping her wings and hovering over to his side, "Not really, you just don't have to flap your wings. Well, I guess I don't have to either." She folded her wings to her side, lit up her horn, and began levitating in place.
Discord scoffed, "Show off."
Spike pointed to a spot near the ocean, "Twilight, can we set up over there?"
"Sure thing, Spike." She floated back down to the ground.
Rainbow Dash grabbed her surfboard, "Ready to catch some waves, A.J.?"
Applejack took her hat off and hoofed it over to Rarity, "Rarity, hold onto this fer me. Ah don't want to get it wet."
Rarity levitated the stetson next to her, "But, of course. And, while I'm shopping, I'll look into exchanging this for something much more glamorous."
Applejack huffed, snatching her hat from Rarity's magical grasp, "On second thought, Spike, take care ah this, wouldja?"
Rarity gawked, "Why, I'd never."
Spike grabbed the hat and offered the country pony a salute, "You got it, Applejack."
Rainbow Dash groaned, "Ugh, enough yappin'. Race ya to the water."
"You're on."
Just like that, the two ponies rushed to the water, each claiming to be the victor, not realizing that they had tied.
Twilight rolled her eyes, "Well, we better get our things set up."
With that being said, the remaining ponies set up their belongings and were ready for a relaxing day at the beach.
-----
"I'm going to look for hermit crabs, " Fluttershy set down her saddlebags and reached inside. She took out a small container with a small hermit crab inside.
"Hermione has been feeling lonely, so I'm going to try to find a friend for her."
Pinkie clapped her hooves together, "Oh! Can I come with you? I love hermit crabs. They're so cute in their little shells."
Fluttershy rubbed her neck, "Um, I suppose so. Just be gentle with any you find. Hermit crabs are very sensitive creatures and must be handled with care."
"You got it. So, come on, Fluttershy, Hermy! Those crabs aren't gonna find themselves." Pinkie, without any warning, grabbed onto her yellow pegasus friend and zoomed off to locate some crustaceans.
Rarity sighed, "And, there go my shopping partners." A smile quickly spread across her face, and she turned to the little purple dragon holding a pail and shovel in his claws.
"Spikey-wikey, would you like to accompany me for a quick round of shopping?"
Spike slumped slightly, "Oh, well, I wanted to go build a sandcastle."
Rarity frowned, about to give him the pouty lip, but Twilight intervened.
The alicorn merely shook her head.
Rarity reluctantly complied, levitating her sunglasses onto her head, "Oh, all right. I suppose I could use a little sun. I shall wait for Pinkie and Fluttershy to return. Go and build your sandcastle, Spike."
Spike grinned, "Okay. You coming, Twi?"
Twilight nodded, "Sure thing. Discord, would you like to help us?"
Discord, who had been lounging in a beach chair in mid-air, looked down at her from his seat, "Help you build a sand castle? I could make one with one snap, with a built-in security system and indoor plumbing."
Spike gasped in delight, "Really? That'd be - "
A quick hoof from Twilight kept him from finishing his sentence.
"I was thinking of doing it without magic."
Discord raised an eyebrow. With a flash, he reappeared in front of the pony and dragon, bending down.
"All right. If you are prohibiting me from using magic, I think it only fair if you don't use it either."
Twilight's eyes widened for a split second before narrowing in determination, "Very well then. I won't use my magic." She held out a hoof to shake.
Discord returned the gesture by offering his lion paw to shake, sealing the deal. "Okay, let's see if the famous Princess of Friendship can manage to do something without the use of her precious magic."
"I was about to say the same thing. Minus the whole Princess of Friendship bit."
Spike stomped a foot in aggravation, "Are we actually going to build a castle, or are we going to spend all our time talking about building a castle?"
Twilight smiled, patting Spike's head, "Of course. Let's get to it."
-----
Discord stared at a mound of sand that lay before him.
He pointed to it with a talon and turned to Twilight, "Remind me again how to make this look like anything without magic?"
Twilight groaned, "Discord, are you even trying?"
The draconequus placed his hands on his thigh, "What does it look like I'm doing?"
Twilight rubbed her face with her hoof, "Okay, well, you're not going to turn that into anything without something to hold it together." She turned to her dragon assistant, "Spike, go fill this bucket with water."
Spike grabbed the handle, "Three-quarters up?"
Twilight grinned, "You got it."
Discord squinted at her, "You are such a nerd."
Twilight rolled her eyes, "Spike, go."
Spike then scurried off to the ocean and returned not a minute later with the water.
He set it down gently to avoid the water spilling, "There. Now, I actually feel like going for a swim."
Twilight looked at him, "Would you rather build a sandcastle or go swimming?"
Discord waved him off, smirking, "Go swimming, Spike. I hear the waves are extra feisty this time of day."
Spike glanced at the ocean. He could make out Rainbow Dash and Applejack on their surfboards, riding on waves at least seven feet tall.
Spike gulped, "On second thought, maybe I'd better stay and help you guys."
Twilight didn't know if Discord was trying to persuade him to go or dissuade him not to. She decided not to question it.
"All right, let's get started. You listening, Discord?"
Discord rolled his eyes, "Yes, Miss Twilight, I'm listening."
Choosing to ignore that, Twilight grabbed the bucket with her hooves and poured its contents onto the sand below.
"Sand by itself will not stick together. But, when you add the right amount of water, " she molded part of the sand to form a small hill, "you get great results."
"I didn't know math was involved in sandcastle building. Makes me want to skip out." Discord stared blankly at the tiny sanddune.
Spike waved a claw in dismissal, "That's really the only part. If it were me, I'd fill it all the way. But, Twi's method always seems to work."
Twilight gave a proud smile, "As it should. Now, the next step: grab the bucket and scoop up all of the moist sand." She did exactly that.
"Scrape off any excess sand from the top with your shovel and make sure the top is smoothed out because the top is actually your foundation."
She took the shovel and did as she just instructed. "See, nice and smooth."
Discord looked at bucket wearily, "I didn't realize how complicated building a sand castle is."
Spike shrugged nonchalantly, "It's really not. Twilight's just making it sound harder than it actually is."
Twilight glared at her assistant, "I am not. I'm just explaining it in the clearest possible way."
"You call that clear?"
Twilight hit Discord with the shovel, "Shush you. Anyway, set your bucket down like this..." She set the bucket down with its top against the sand and its bottom facing upward.
Discord held up a paw before she could explain any further, "You know, Twilight, it may not seem like it, but just so you know, I am smarter than I look. You don't have to explain this to me like I'm a kindergartener."
Spike nudged the alicorn, "He has a point, Twi."
Twilight scoffed, "Well, sorry, I didn't think I'd have to teach anyone how to build a sand castle."
Discord raised an eyebrow and his eagle claw, "With one snap, I could turn this heap of sand into a mansion."
Twilight's eyebrows furrowed, "We are not using magic, Discord."
"Party pooper."
"Who's a party pooper?"
Twilight, Spike, and Discord jumped at the new voice that popped into their conversation.
"Pinkie Pie? What are you doing?" Twilight shook off some sand from her wings.
"I just came by to see what you were doing. Flutters, Rarity, and me are heading to the boardwalk for some delicious fudge-y goodness. We'll bring some back for you. Have fun!" Pinkie bounced back over to Rarity and Fluttershy.
Twilight shook her head, "Anyway, let's finish this up." She turned back to the pail and patted it on all sides
Carefully, she removed the bucket. And, lo and behold, a large mound of sand had been formed.
Discord narrowed an eye, "That doesn't really look like a castle."
Twilight rolled her eyes, "Well, it's not done yet. But, this is where I let Spike take over. Spike, the floor's yours." She hoofed the shovel over to Spike.
Spike licked his lips, "All right. Stand back. I need elbow room."
Twilight giggled, trotting over next to Discord and sitting next to him.
Some strange part of Discord wanted Twilight to scooch closer, but his mind quickly repulsed that idea.
About ten minutes later, Spike had finished, and the mound of clay now looked like a decent castle.
Discord stared at it in a scrutinizing manner, "Hmm. Not bad. It's not much, but it's not bad."
"You can always add onto it." Twilight smiled at the castle, "But, this is really good, Spike."
Spike beamed, "Thanks, Twilight. Can we go in the water now?"
Twilight stood up, "I don't see why not. Discord, care to get wet?"
Discord chuckled, "If anypony's going to get wet, it's going to be you."
Twilight levitated Spike onto her back, "Oh, so that's how you're going to play? Last one to the water is an overgrown grapevine!"
"What?"
Without saying anything more, Twilight charged towards the water.
Discord smiled, enjoying this playful side of Twilight. He decided to let her think that she would win.
When she neared the ocean, Discord simply teleported to the water, appearing right in front of her.
Twilight skidded to a halt, raising a hoof in front of face to avoid getting splashed, "Hey, no fair."
Discord shrugged, using his tail as a motor to move about in the water, "Hey, you could've teleported, too. It's totally fair."
Twilight smirked, narrowing her eyes, "Well, let's see if you call this fair. Spike, splash the enemy."
Spike shared her smirk, "With pleasure."
Before they knew it, a splashing war took place amongst the three of them.
Their trip to the beach ended well.
And, throughout the entire day, Discord kept experiencing a strange, new feeling.
Discord couldn't stand it. It was becoming stronger and stronger. And, he had no idea what "it" was.
Months ago, poking fun at Twilight Sparkle was easy and very much enjoyable.
Now, he was having a hard time coming up with anything to offend her, even if he didn't actually mean it. For some crazy reason, he couldn't bare to see Twilight upset.
And, why?
What was causing this weird feeling?
Discord wanted to know what he was feeling and if there was any chance of getting rid of it.
But, who could he ask?
-----
Discord was over at Carousel Boutique.
As punishment for ruining one of her most successful line of dresses, Rarity agreed to forgive Discord if he would let her design a suit for him to wear for the next Grand Galloping Gala .
Now, normally he wouldn't have agreed to such a deal. But, when Rarity suggested catsitting Opalescence instead, Discord chose the former.
Discord groaned as Rarity measured his waist, "You know, I didn't have to agree to this. Quite frankly, I could care less if you forgave me or not."
Rarity sent him a glare as she started to measure his sides, "I thought you wanted to prove you were a good friend."
Discord scoffed, "I said I was sorry. Is that not good enough for you?"
"No, it's not. Knowing you, you could have easily been faking."
Discord clicked his tongue, "You clearly have some trust issues."
Rarity set her red glasses onto a nearby table, "Only with you. Now, do be quiet, I need to concentrate."
Discord sighed but closed his mouth and let her work.
He looked over at the white unicorn. Out of all the ponies in the Friendship group, she seemed to be the most mature.
He cleared his throat, "Hey, uh, Rarity?"
"Yes?"
Discord bit his talon. His claw went back down to his side. "Okay, so, I know this...stallion. He has some issues he needs sorted out."
Rarity turned to look at him, "Stallion? Do I know him?"
Discord's eyes darted back and forth, "Uh, I doubt it. His name is...Hatrack Mirror." He said after spotting a hatrack and a mirror.
Rarity set her pencil down, bearing a look of confusion, "That is an...odd name."
Discord shrugged, "Yeah, he gets that a lot. He lives in Vanhoover. Way out there. But, he's asking me for advice, and I don't really know what to say."
Rarity turned around in her seat to face him, "Advice, you say? What sort of advice?"
Discord scratched the back of his head, "Well, he's been having this weird feeling. He doesn't know what it is, and he only feels it around a certain mare."
Rarity gained a look of understanding, "Ah, I see. It's really quite obvious. A strange feeling around a mare? It's quite obvious that this Hatrack Mirror has a crush on this mare."
Discord blinked, "A crush? You mean like a school colt crush?"
Rarity shrugged, "I wouldn't necessarily call it a school colt crush. He obviously has feelings for this mare, and if he wishes to pursue a relationship, he should tell her how he feels."
Discord squinted his eyes, "I'm not sure Hatty's going to like that idea. You're saying he's in love with this mare?"
Rarity smiled, "Maybe not in love yet. It depends how strong his feelings are."
Discord looked down, his eyebrows furrowed, "No. That can't be it. Love? Really? That's nonsense."
Rarity raised an eyebrow, "What is so nonsensical about that?"
Discord waved her off, "Oh, nothing at all. Really. But, I'm going to need a second opinion. Who is an expert on love?"
Rarity turned around to face her design, "Well, if you want the expert's advice, talk to Princess Cadence."
Discord slouched, "I have to go all the way to the Crystal Empire?"
"If you want a second opinion, Princess Cadence is the best option."
Discord sighed, "I suppose. I - uh, I mean, Hatrack needs it. Later, Rarity. " In bright flash of light, Discord vanished.
Rarity breathed a sigh of relief.
-----
It was a beautiful day in the Crystal Empire. The Crystal ponies trotted throughout the Empire with not a care in the world.
Prince Shining Armor was out in the fields, looking over the newest recruits for the Crystal Guard.
Princess Cadence sat on her throne, having just settled a housing dispute between two sisters.
After that ordeal, business seemed to slow down. So, the Princess of Love had a moment to breathe and relax.
Unfortunately, that moment didn't last long.
Cadence jumped as a loud drum roll started playing out of nowhere. The guards stationed next to her readied their spears, pointing them at the door.
"Presenting the one and only Lord of Chaos: Discord!"
A red carpet rolled onto the crystal floor, and rolling onto the red carpet was none other than the infamous Spirit of Chaos himself.
Discord gave a low bow, "Greetings, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza."
Cadence blinked at the sight of the draconequus. She turned to the guards, "Stand down. He's no threat."
Discord rolled his eyes, "Finally, someone realizes that."
Cadence pointed to the doors, "Leave us. I have a feeling Discord didn't just drop by to say hi."
Discord scoffed, "Like I'd ever do that. Me voluntarily go to a place powered by love? Gag me."
Cadence narrowed her eyes at him then sighed. She gave a nod to the guards, and they left the throne room.
Once they left, Cadence turned back to Discord, who was tapping his cloven hoof against the floor impatiently.
"So, Discord, what are you doing here in the Empire? Assuming you're not here to cause mischief."
Discord took a few steps towards the throne, "You say that right after you declare me not a threat. Am I or aren't I? Make up your mind, Princess. I can accept either one."
Cadence sighed, "I apologize. I know you're no threat. Twilight has been sending me letters often and has included you in some of them."
Discord blinked, "She has?"
Cadence nodded, "Yes, she has. She's been saying how enjoyable it's been to hang out with you. You seem to be making good progress, Discord."
Discord mused over that little tidbit of info. She enjoyed spending time with him? Enough to mention him in her letters to her sister-in-law?
"Discord?"
Discord was snapped out of his train of thought, "Huh? What? Oh, well, that's rather nice of her."
Cadence nodded, "So, you haven't answered my question yet."
Discord wrung his hands together, "Uh, what question would that be again?"
Cadence put a hoof to her head, "Why are you here?"
"Oh...that. Right. Uh..." He rubbed the back of his head. It worked for Rarity. Maybe it would work on her.
"Well?"
Discord cleared his throat, "Okay, so I have this friend. He needs some advice on the thing that you know a lot about."
Cadence raised an eyebrow, "You mean love? You need some advice on love?"
"Y - I mean - no! It's not for me. It's for my friend Hatrack Stairs."
Cadence leaned back in her throne. She knew all the tricks, and she knew exactly what he was trying to do. But, she decided to humor him for a bit.
"All right. Tell me about this friend of yours. What problems is he having regarding love?"
Discord shrugged, "Well, he told me that whenever he's around this mare, he starts to feel weird."
"Weird? Would this weirdness happen to include sweating, warmth, tingly feeling in stomach, or shortness of breath?"
Discord pointed to her, "You know, it does. I feel - uh, that he has some major issues. And, as his friend, I'd - uh, like to help him. Yeah."
Cadence smiled, "Well, this stallion obviously has feelings for this mare. It only happens around the mare, right?"
Discord said nothing but his eyes told her everything she needed to know.
Cadence nodded, "So, yes. He likes this mare. And, if he wishes to pursue a relationship, he should tell her how he feels."
Discord grumbled, "That's exactly what Rarity said."
Cadence opened her wings and flew down in front of Discord. She looked up at him, "So, who is it?"
Discord looked from side to side before looking back at her, "Who's who?"
Cadence gave him a pointed look, "The mare."
Discord shrugged, "How am I supposed to know? Hatty never said anything."
Cadence chuckled, "Discord, you can drop the act. I know that you're talking about yourself."
Discord gawked at her and backed up, "What? What are you talking about? I came here for advice for Hatrack Mirror."
The pink alicorn raised an eyebrow, "I thought his name was Hatrack Stairs."
Discord blinked, "Uh..." He scratched the back of his neck, "Well, his brother is also named Hatrack, but his last name is Stairs."
Cadence shook her head, "Discord, you are only making this sound even more ridiculous than it already is. You can't pull a fast one on the Princess of Love."
Discord let out a defeated sigh, "It worked on Rarity."
Princess Cadence smiled, "Is Rarity the Princess of Love? No. So, Discord, I'll ask again. Who is it?"
Discord ran his paw through his black mane, "Are you certain that what I'm feeling is...love? Couldn't it just be that T - uh, that mare is sick, and I'm catching whatever sickness she had?"
Cadence chuckled again, patting Discord's side, "Discord, I'm pretty sure the mare is not sick. It has to be love. Well, maybe not love yet. But, you definitely like this mare, whom I'd really like to know the name of."
Discord turned his back towards her and walked a few feet away. "I really do? Is that what I've been feeling? That weird warm feeling I get is just because I...like her?"
Cadence lowered her eyebrows, "Yes, Discord. Any weird feelings you've had around this mare can only be explained as a like-like type of love. But, I'd really like to know who you're talking about."
Discord put a claw to his face, "I can't be in love. I mean, the Spirit of Chaos in love? Who ever heard of such a ridiculous idea?"
Cadence walked and stood right next to him, "Technically, you're just 'in like' now. And, Discord, love is for everyone. Just because you're the Spirit of Chaos doesn't mean that you can't know and experience love. And, no one will take you any less seriously. In fact, they might very well gain a whole new respect for you."
Discord blinked and turned to her, "Really?"
Cadence nodded, "If you and this mare, who I'd still really like to know who, ever get together, it'll show ponies that you're not a monster or a villain. If they realize that you're capable of loving someone, they might stop begrudging and hating you."
Discord stood and stared out into space, thinking about what he had just heard. He sighed, "I...guess you have a point there."
Cadence smiled, putting a hoof to her chest, "Of course, I do. Now, may I please know the name of the mare you like?"
Discord crossed his arms, "Will you promise not to tell anyone?"
"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Cadence did the motions associated with the promise.
Discord blinked, "Huh. And here I thought Pinkie was bluffing when she said that her Pinkie Promise was used world wide." He let out a sigh, "Oh, fine. But, could we not talk out here? Ponies listen. And, I'd really prefer if no one finds out."
Cadence nodded, "Of course. We can talk in my bed chambers. It's this way."
With that, the Princess of Love led the Spirit of Chaos to her room.
-----
Cadence closed the purple silk curtains in her room. She levitated a fuschia-colored pillow over to her and lay herself on top of it.
Discord summoned an orange beanbag chair and plopped onto it.
Cadence blinked then shrugged. She cleared her throat, "All right, Discord. Tell me the name of the mysterious mare that has captured your heart."
Discord held up his hands, "Okay, I'm gonna stop you there. 'Captured my heart'? Uh, I still have a hard time believing that what I'm feeling is love, so..."
Cadence rolled her eyes, "Discord, I've already told you. It's not love yet. You have feelings for this mare, that much is obvious. But, if it will make you feel better, I'll rephrase. Who is the mare that has been making you feel weird?"
Discord leaned back and crossed his arms, "Why don't you answer that? You're the Princess of Love, aren't you?"
Cadence let out a sigh, "Discord, I can't tell you who you like if they're not even here. I can sense love in a pony's heart when I see them interact or when I see them together with the pony they like. You came alone, so I have no idea who the mare is."
"Then guess. I'm not telling you who it is. You have to guess."
Cadence put a hoof to her face, "You're playing that game, huh? All right, I'm in. Let's see. It's probably a mare you hang out with a lot. Perhaps one of Twilight's friends."
Discord said nothing, his eyes staring at ceiling.
Cadence smiled, "Okay, so that narrows it down. It's one of the six. So, is it Fluttershy?"
Discord shook his head, "She's a dear friend, but she'll never be more than that. I appreciate her, but she doesn't make me feel weird."
Cadence nodded, "All right. Is it Rarity?"
Discord snorted, "Hay no. Please. Rarity can be quite scary when she wants to be, and I'm not a big fan of being her model for hours on end, so... EHH!"
Cadence put a hoof to her chin, "Hmm. Pinkie Pie?"
Discord shook his head again, "Try again, Cadenza."
Cadence narrowed her eyes as she thought, "I have a feeling it's not Applejack or Rainbow Dash. So, that leaves just one..." She gasped loudly.
She looked at Discord with wide eyes, "Discord...is it Twilight?"
Discord sunk into his beanie bag, not wanting to look her in the eyes.
Cadence laughed, "It is! Discord, you like Twilight?"
Discord coughed, "Uh, Twilight who? I don't know any Twilights."
Cadence got to her hooves, ignoring his comment, "Oh, Discord. That's wonderful!"
Discord stood up, too, "Do not say a word. If she found out, I don't know what she'd think."
Cadence raised an eyebrow, "About your weird feelings or about your feelings for her?"
Discord shrugged, "I don't know. Both?"
Cadence's eyes softened, "Discord, you're smart enough to realize your feelings. You like her, and you know it. Denying it won't make it go away. You should tell her how you feel."
Discord shook his head, "Yeah, that's not gonna happen. If I tell her and she doesn't feel the same way, our friendship would feel awkward from then on. I like being friends. I really don't need to be anything more."
Cadence looked him in the eyes, "I understand your reasoning, Discord. But, if you don't pursue this, you might wind up regretting that you didn't. Twilight's not going to stay single forever. She's an attractive mare, a princess. A stallion is going to notice her, and she might notice him. And, when that happens, you'll probably never get another chance, unless things don't work out between them."
Discord flopped back onto his bean bag, "I don't know."
Cadence followed suit and lay back down on her cushion. "Well, I want to know how much you like her. So, tell me, what is it that you like about her?"
Discord huffed, "Talking about my feelings, that's just how I envisioned my day ending."
"Discord."
He sighed, "Okay, fine. You're probably not going to let me leave until I tell you."
Cadence continued to look at him, waiting for him to begin.
Discord ran his eagle claw through his mane, "I guess what I like about her is the fact that she's so unpredictable. Just like chaos."
Cadence blinked, "I've never heard of that as a reason before. Care to explain?"
Discord rolled his eyes, "I feel like I'm being cross-examined in court. But, fine. Twilight acts like order is so important to her. But, deep down, I know she is not the organization freak she claims to be. I never know what she's going to do next. She's caused widespread chaos to get a friendship report in. I know Celestia's morals have been her standards for life, but whether she cares to admit it or not, she has a chaotic side. Something that I wish to see come out more often. But, even if it doesn't, I still enjoy her company."
Cadence nodded, "That is a very interesting reason. Although, I can't say I completely disagree with you. I should tell you about some of Twilight's magic surges when she was a filly. It tooks us days to reverse everything."
Discord chuckled, "I can totally picture that."
Cadence gave a chuckle of her own, "Anything else you like?"
Discord sat up, "Well, that and the fact that she's been standing up for me. I'm not just talking about her giving up her magic for her friends, including me. My betrayal has gained me many haters, but Twilight's managed to get some of them to reevaluate their opinions of me."
Cadence smiled, "So, are you finally ready to admit that you like her?"
Discord's eyebrows furrowed, "What do you mean finally? I only realized I had these mushy feelings today."
Cadence maintained her smile, "I think you've known for a while now, you just didn't realize it."
Cadence looked at the clock on the wall. "Shining Armor will be back any minute now."
Discord stood up, snapping the bean bag into nonexistence, "I guess that means I'd better leave. I don't think your hubby's all that fond of me."
Cadence opened the doors with her magic, "That's probably a good idea."
Discord began walking out of the room.
"Oh, and Discord?"
He turned around.
Cadence smiled, "Think about what I've said, all right? Twilight obviously sees you as a friend. I don't know if she shares the same feelings, but you'll never know unless you tell her. It could be the best decision you've ever made."
Discord side-nodded, "Eh, maybe. But, right now, I'm pushing this day to the back of my mind. Thanks for the help though, Cadence."
Cadence nodded, "Any time. And, if you need any more, I'll be happy to lend you some."
Discord smiled. Without further ado, he snapped his talons and disappeared.
"Cadence?"
The pink alicorn looked over to see her husband who had turned a corner and was walking towards her.
Cadence beamed, "Hi, honey. How were the new recruits?"
Shining levitated his helmet off of his head, "Not too bad. Who were you talking to?"
Discord stared at himself in the mirror. It had been a few days since he had that talk with Princess Cadence. The talk that completely changed everything at once.
He still couldn't believe it. He, the Almighty Lord of Chaos, had a silly, little crush on the most organized being in Equestria. What made it worse, as he thought back to the conversation he had with the Princess of Love, it seemed as if he had something more than just a crush.
Discord shook his head. He hadn't been able to stop thinking about it since he left the Empire. Cadence said that he should tell Twilight how he felt about her.
Discord didn't love her, that would be pushing it a little too far.
But, Cadence made it seem like he saw Twilight as more than just a friend.
Did he?
Discord ran his paw down his face. How could he? Cadence said that nopony would take him any less seriously if he confessed, but did he really want that?
Discord was perfectly happy being friends with Twilight. He really didn't see the need to tell her.
And, if he did tell her, what would she say? How would she react?
If he told her and she didn't feel the same way, their friendship would never be the same.
There's no way he'd tell her.
But, a small part of him thought back to what Cadence had said.
"I understand your reasoning, Discord. But, if you don't pursue this, you might wind up regretting that you didn't. Twilight's not going to stay single forever. She's an attractive mare, a princess. A stallion is going to notice her, and she might notice him. And, when that happens, you'll probably never get another chance, unless things don't work out between them."
Cadence had a point. Twilight was not a mare meant to be single her whole life. And, there were many eligible stallions out there that could woo her.
A small part of Discord wanted that someone to be him. But, the rest of him berated that one part of thinking so ridiculously.
Discord took a deep breath, an idea formulating in his head.
If he could hang out with Twilight without having that feeling, maybe this silly crush would cease to be.
With a firm nod, Discord snapped his fingers and disappeared.
-----
In a bright flash of light, Discord reappeared in front of the Castle of Friendship.
He marched up the few stairs then opened the doors with a strong push.
He stepped inside. He had been in here a few times, but he had never quite realized how spacious it was.
Discord chuckled, "Twi sure got the jackpot, that's for sure."
His ears picked up the pitter-patter of little feet, and since there was only one creature in the castle with feet, Discord knew who was coming by.
As expected, Spike came walking down the hallway, a comic book in one claw and a half-eaten gem in the other. He was so caught up in his comic book that he failed to realize that Discord had arrived.
Discord let out an amused snort as the dragon walked past him. He quietly floated behind the dragon, trying his best not to laugh as Spike continued to be unaware of his presence.
After walking a few more feet, Spike eventually realized that someone was following him. He turned around.
"ACK!" Spike jumped several feet, dropping his comic book and gem on the ground.
Discord burst out laughing, clutching his stomach as he floated in mid-air. "You should have seen the look on your face. Priceless!"
Spike took a few deep breaths to recover from the shock. When he was finally calmed down, he sent a glare in Discord's direction.
"That phrase is getting old."
Discord wiped a tear from his eye, "To you, maybe. But, it's always true."
"Hardy har har, " Spike bent down to pick up his fallen items. He rolled up the comic book and stuck it under his arm. He gobbled up the rest of his gem.
"So, Discord, what brings you around here?"
Discord shrugged innocently, setting his mismatched feet on the ground. "Nothing special. I was bored, so I decided to pay Princess Bookworm a visit."
Spike clicked his tongue, "Oh, you picked the wrong day to do that."
Discord raised an eyebrow, "And...why is that?"
Spike chuckled flatly, "Trust me when I say you don't want to see her when she's like this."
Discord scoffed, waving a claw at that, "Please, it can't be that bad."
Spike narrowed his eyes and smirked, "You wanna bet? When Twilight misses a deadline, I'd rather face the old you than her."
Discord blinked, giving Spike a strange look, "She's that bad?"
Spike nodded, "Yup. Ever since she became the Princess of Friendship, she's been nonstop busy. She's had so much on her mind. She forgot that she was supposed to deliver a lecture tomorrow at Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns on how she became an alicorn, and now she's cramming big time."
Discord squinted his eyes, crossing his arms, "I don't get it. Why is it such a big deal? Doesn't she know?"
Spike shrugged, "I asked her the same thing, but she wants to make sure her explanation is crystal clear. She claims that there are parts that she doesn't fully understand yet. She was up all of last night, and you can be sure that's she not going to sleep tonight either."
Discord stroked his goatee with his paw, "Perhaps I can offer some insight for the frazzled princess."
"Heh. Good luck. She's in the library. Have fun. I'm heading over to the comic book shop with the Crusaders. Later." Spike waved goodbye then ran out of the castle.
Discord stood in the empty corridor, unsure of what to do.
He shook his head, "The little guy was obviously exaggerating. How bad can she be?"
-----
"...why did I ask that?"
Spike's warning turned out to be quite accurate.
The library was in a state of absolute chaos, which didn't really bother him. But, knowing whose castle this library was located in made him somewhat concerned.
Nearly every bookshelf was empty, its contents were scattered all over. Books covered the ground as far as the eye could see.
Discord floated above the Book Sea, trying to locate the purple alicorn.
Eventually, he spotted her, and what a mess she was.
She was hunched over several open books, her attention obviously drawn to each of them.
Her usually neat-and-tidy mane was sticking up at odd ends. Her feathers looked like they hadn't been preened in weeks. Dark bags lay under her eyes, indicating major sleep loss.
Discord had been wanting to see her chaotic side, but he didn't expect it to be this chaotic.
Discord cautiously approached her. He lifted a claw, about to speak.
But, she heard him coming.
Twilight quickly turned around, brandishing her horn and pointing it directly at the draconequus. Her eyes were narrowed, a snarl spread across her face. Her messy wings were spread out wide.
Discord held his arms up, "WHOA! WHOA! Friend here!"
Twilight's eyes lost their vicious look. She relaxed, her wings folding back up.
She sighed, "Oh, it's just you, Discord. A little heads-up would've been nice. I could've laser beamed your head off."
Discord carefully landed, taking good care to keep a safe distance, "You probably would have."
Twilight levitated several bookmarks and placed them in her books. She closed the books and turned to Discord.
"What do you want, Discord? I'm extremely busy."
Discord chuckled, walking a wee bit closer but still keeping his distance, "Really? I never would have guessed. Spike mentioned your predicament, and well, as your friend, I'd like to help."
Twilight stood up on all fours, shaking her head, "I doubt you're going to be able to do much."
Discord put his hands on his sides, "You doubt my ability? I resent that remark, Ms. Sparky."
Twilight rolled her eyes, turning back to her books, "I don't have time for this."
Discord's eyebrows flattened as he floated over to her. "Spike was right. You are bad."
She ignored him, opening up her books again.
But, Discord closed them again.
Twilight's head lifted, and her eyes were narrowed once again, "Do you want to lose your head?"
Discord backed off, holding his hands up, "Hey, hey. No need for violence here, dear Princess. I am here to help."
Twilight's eyes softened, "You really want to help?"
The Spirit of Chaos rubbed the back of his neck, "Sure, I mean, I have nothing better to do."
The purple alicorn gave him a smile, much better than the nasty scowl she had earlier.
She sighed, "Well, if it means this much to you, I guess you can stick around. Thanks, Discord."
Discord gave her a smile back. But, the feeling he had been hoping to avoid started to reappear. Discord shook his head to prevent his mind from traveling elsewhere.
He clasped his hands together, "So, what has caused the eruption of Mount Chaos?"
Twilight chuckled flatly at that, "Celestia sent me a letter yesterday reminding me that I'm due to give a lecture at the School for Gifted Unicorns."
Discord nodded, his arms crossed against his chest, "Yeah, I got the rundown from your dragon bro. About your ascension, right?"
Twilight gave a nod of her own, "Uh huh. But, I've been so busy lately. What with the Cutie Map popping up and the formation of the new Friendship Council - "
"The council that consists of you and the girls?"
Twilight furrowed her eyebrows, "Those thrones were arranged that way for a reason."
Discord snorted, "It could just be the style. The typical Ye Ole Roundtable from a foal's storybook."
Twilight raised an eyebrow, "You know that when Equestria first started out, the first High Council consisted of six ponies arranged in a roundtable fashion."
Discord shrugged, "That fashion became outdated eons before I took over."
Twilight groaned, "We're getting off topic. You made me lose my train of thought. Where was I?"
"Why you've been so busy?"
She clapped her hooves, "Ah, yes. Anyway, once I became the Princess of Friendship, I announced to the Ponyvillians that they could come to me with their problems. Of course, I didn't take into account how many ponies would come to me daily. I'm surprised I've been able to take a few days off."
Discord clicked his tongue, "Yeah, I hear ya. Princess Sunshine had me sit in a court session a while back. I don't remember much of it because I fell asleep at the second petitioner's request."
Twilight grunted, blowing a strand of mane from her face, "I'm tempted to fall asleep during some. Don't get me wrong, I love helping ponies, and I'll do whatever I can to help them. But, some of these problems I feel like they can handle themselves."
Discord shrugged, "That's ponyfolk for ya. They'll take any opportunity they can to meet with royalty. Even the Ponyville ponies, whom you've known for like years."
Twilight nodded, "I know, right? Anyway, I completely forgot about my lecture tomorrow. So, I've doing some research on alicorns."
Discord raised an eyebrow, "Some?" He gestured to the Sea of Books that surrounded them.
Twilight blushed, "It's a very extensive topic."
Discord chuckled, shaking his head, "Twilight, you are blowing this thing waaaaay out of proportion."
The young princess raised an eyebrow, "Huh?"
Discord nodded, "Yeah. There's no need to blow up about this. And, there's no need to get all stressed out about it either." He pointed to her frazzled look. With a snap of his finger, Twilight was back to looking like her unstressed self.
Twilight huffed, "Well, if you think it's not a big deal, why don't you give me an explanation?"
Discord chuckled again, "Sure. But, no copycats. Plagiarism is a no no." He wagged his talon at her.
Twilight smirked, "That would imply that your explanation is actually worth plagiarizing."
Discord stuck his tongue out, "You'll be eating those words soon enough."
He snapped his talons, giving himself the look of a teacher. He wore thick black glasses. A red tie hung around his neck.
Twilight raised an eyebrow, "Uh - "
Discord wagged his finger at her, "Ah ah ah. No talky. Now, be a good student and let Mr. Discord educate you."
-----
"And, there was this bright flash of light, then PRESTO! We have a new alicorn. Namely you. Any questions?"
Discord looked expectantly at the alicorn and smirked when he saw her staring at him wide-eyed and dropped-jaw.
Discord rubbed his talons against his coat, bearing a smug expression, "It seems I've left you speechless."
Twilight blinked, shaking her head. She put a hoof to her head, "Wow. You made it sound so simple."
Discord crossed his arms and nodded, "Mmhm. In a nutshell, Ol' Beardy wrote a spell to bring out one's destiny. Never finished it. You did. Destiny fulfilled. One song later you're an alicorn."
"Huh. It doesn't sound so complicated when you put like that."
Discord grinned, "It never was. You, Miss Perfection, were simply making a mountain out of a molehill. Whatever that means."
Twilight stood up, a sincere smile on her face, "I guess you're right. Thanks for the help, Discord. I didn't expect it from you, but sometimes help comes from an unexpected source."
Discord waved a paw, "It was nothing - Whoa!"
Before he knew it, Twilight had her hooves wrapped around his neck.
Discord nearly blushed, that warm feeling coming in strong. But, he managed to return the hug.
"All right, all right, you're welcome. No need to go all sappy on me."
Twilight released him, flapping her wings to keep her in the air.
"Hugs are not sappy, Discord. They're signs of true friendship. I mean, if you didn't like someone, why would you hug them?"
Discord chuckled, "I guess you have a point there."
Princess Twilight always had many responsibilities. But, no matter how many she had, she would always get them done to the best of her abilities.
But, for the past week, something was...different. Everyday it seemed like she had something on her mind. She would stare into space when somepony was talking to her.
She would always seem unfocused, her mind obviously elsewhere.
Unbeknownst to anypony else, she did have something on her mind.
And, that something was Discord.
For some reason, she couldn't seem to get Discord out of her mind. Everything seemed to remind her of him.
Whenever she would talk to somepony, she'd think about him.
Her nights were plagued with dreams of Discord.
Twilight decided that enough was enough. Discord had to have cast a spell on her or something. As a prank, most likely. That had to be the reason.
Besides, what else could it be?
-----
"Twilight, are you sure about this?"
Twilight rolled her eyes, "Of course, Spike. Discord cast a spell on me, and I intend to make him stop."
Spike gave an eyeroll of his own, "You know, you don't have any proof that Discord's responsible. I mean, this doesn't really seem like something Discord would do."
"He's Discord, Spike. He doesn't need a reason to do anything. He just does it."
Spike crossed his arms, "But, he hasn't done anything like that for awhile."
Twilight groaned, "Spike, he may be much better behaved than he was before, but that doesn't mean he still won't pull this kind of stuff."
Spike rolled his eyes again, "All right, fine. But, I say you're wasting your time."
"Say what you want. I need to get to Fluttershy's."
Without another word, Twilight exited the castle.
-----
Twilight trotted over to Fluttershy's cottage, an angry expression on her face.
"Discord, I swear, if you cast a spell on me, I might lose it."
She arrived at the cottage in record timing.
She took a deep breath, not wanting to look angry in front of her friend. She knocked on the door.
"Coming." A quiet voice came from the inside.
The door opened, revealing the yellow pegasus. "Oh! Hi, Twilight. It's good to see you."
Twilight offered her friend a warm smile, "It's good to see you, too, Fluttershy."
Her smile slowly left her face, "Do you...do you know where Discord is?"
Fluttershy raised an eyebrow, "Discord? Why? What's wrong?"
Twilight rubbed her temple with her hoof, "Ugh, I think he cast some sort of spell on me."
Fluttershy opened the door fully, "What? Why would he do that?"
Twilight huffed, "Hay if I no. But, for some reason, I can't stop thinking about him."
Fluttershy blinked, "Really? Why would Discord cast a spell to make you think about him?"
Twilight shrugged her wings, "He's Discord. Why wouldn't he is the better question. Anyway, I need to get this thing sorted out. I've been unfocused all week, and it's driving me insane."
Fluttershy stared at her alicorn friend, "It's that bad? Are they bad thoughts?"
Twilight shook her head, "Not really. And, that's the weird part. If I'm talking to somepony, I'll think about conversations I've had with him. Pleasant conversations." She smiled, "Like the time Discord helped me figure out my lecture about my ascension. Which actually went really great."
Fluttershy pushed her mane out of her eyes, "Well, if they're not bad thoughts, then what's the problem?"
Twilight sighed, "The problem is that I can't seem to concentrate on anything else. He's been plaguing my mind, and I don't why."
Fluttershy raised an eyebrow, "And, you're certain that Discord's cast a spell on you?"
Twilight looked at her friend with uncertainty, "I don't know. I mean, what else could it be?"
Fluttershy shrugged, "It just doesn't seem like the kind of thing he would do. Especially since he's been so nice lately."
Twilight's eyebrows flattened, "Yeah, but he's still Discord. Look, I just want to talk to him. If he's innocent, then he'll have nothing to worry about. Do you know where he is?"
Fluttershy sighed, "He's not here. But, there's a portal to his home in the guest room upstairs. I think it's in the closet."
Twilight blinked, "Oh, he doesn't live here?"
Fluttershy shook her head, "Not anymore. When he first started being reformed, he stayed with me. But, eventually, he created his own living space. It's...chaotic, that's for sure."
Twilight chuckled flatly, "Well, what do you expect from someone named Discord? Thanks, Fluttershy."
Fluttershy let the princess in and led her upstairs.
The two mares trotted down the small hallway and into the guest room.
They entered the room. Fluttershy walked over to the closet in the corner. She opened it.
Twilight's jaw dropped slightly upon seeing the swirling vortex inside the closet.
"Well, here it is. You're going to have to ask him where the portal is to leave. I never know." Fluttershy giggled softly.
Twilight nodded, "Okay. Thanks, Fluttershy. I shouldn't be long."
Fluttershy trotted out of the room, leaving Twilight alone.
Twilight stared at the swirling vortex for about a minute. She didn't know what was on the other side of it.
Her head hurt just thinking about what Discord's home might be like.
But, if she wanted to start focusing on things other than Discord, she had to find out.
Despite her hesitation, Twilight stepped through the portal.
-----
Whatever Twilight imagined Discord's home to be was certainly not what it actually was.
Discord lived in his own dimension. His own universe.
As Twilight floated in place, she took in the sights around her.
Twilight knew that Discord was powerful. But, being able to create his own inter-dimensional home, Twilight knew that Discord was far more powerful than probably all of the princesses, including herself, combined.
In a way, Twilight envied Discord. He could bend and shape reality to his will with a snap of his fingers.
If Discord hadn't been so cocky, he could've easily managed to avoid being turned to stone.
Twilight shook her head to clear her thoughts. She saw a house way in the distance. Since that was the only house around, she assumed that it belonged to Discord.
Of course, he could be living in that tree over there. Who knows when it comes to Discord.
She opened her wings and flew over, landing on the grassy part of the floating crater that held the house.
She trotted to the door and knocked then took a step back.
Not a minute later, the door opened. Upon seeing the purple alicorn, Discord's face took on a surprised look.
"Twilight? What are you doing here? More importantly, how did you get here?"
Twilight shrugged, "Fluttershy showed me the portal. I want to talk to you about something."
Discord smirked, "You came all this way just to have a little chit-chat with me? Well, by all means, come on in, dear Princess. I will get some snacks."
Twilight smiled, walking in behind him.
Discord's house was surprisingly...organized. In a chaotic way.
A couch sat in the corner of what she assumed to be the living room. In front of it was a small table.
She looked to the side to see some stairs. Upside down stairs that led to another room.
Twilight wasn't sure if she was standing on the ceiling or not. She decided not to worry about it.
Discord came back into the room with a plate of cotton candy and two glasses of chocolate milk.
He set them down on the table in front of the couch.
Twilight looked over at the snacks and gave a snort, "High marks for originality, Discord."
Discord shrugged, plopping onto the couch, "Hey, it tastes good. To me, that's all that really matters. You want something else?"
Twilight shook her head, "No, it's fine. Thank you." She levitated a piece of cotton candy into her mouth, savoring the sweetness.
Discord grabbed his glass of chocolate milk and started drinking it. "So, what is it that you wanted to talk about?"
Twilight rubbed her neck nervously, "Oh...well, heh, funny story."
She cleared her throat, "Um, Discord...have you, uh, cast any spells on me recently?"
At that, Discord stopped drinking. He looked over at the princess with a confused look.
"No? Whatever gave you that idea?"
Twilight's cheeks began to warm up, "Well...I have been unfocused all week."
Discord let out a snort, "Well, you can't pin that on me."
"Because I can't stop thinking about you."
Discord sat up. He stared at Twilight for several seconds.
Twilight frowned at Discord's silence.
But, eventually, a smirk started to spread across Discord's face.
"Princess Twilight Sparkle has been unfocused all because she can't stop thinking about me? Well, color me flattered, Ms. Sparky. Although, I would have to wager that these thoughts are not exactly good, right?"
Twilight bit her lip. She could easily tell him yes. But, for some reason, she felt inclined to tell him the truth.
"Actually, they're all good."
Discord's smirk turned into a smile, " Really? Well, I must say, I am touched."
He blinked, "Wait. Did you come all the way down here to see if I had cast a spell on you?"
Twilight blushed, "Well, it could've been a prank or something. It's not beneath you to do so."
Discord shrugged, "Perhaps. But, I have done nothing of the sort. Your thoughts about little ol' me are all yours. Why am I the focus of your thoughts I haven't the foggiest. But, I do know that I was not responsible."
Twilight sighed, "I should've listened to Spike and Fluttershy. Well, thanks, Discord. You're innocent."
Discord put a paw to his chest, "Naturally."
"Well, I'd better go. Sorry for wasting your time." She started to make her way over to the door.
"Wait!"
Twilight turned back to face Discord, "Yes?"
Discord rubbed the back of his neck, "Y'know, I don't normally get visitors. It would be nice if you could stay a little longer. We can talk. Play some games. Just hang out as friends."
Twilight smiled, "You know what, Discord? That actually sounds really nice. Sure, I'll stay a little longer."
Discord grinned, "Really? Great!" He snapped his fingers and a box of Ponopoly appeared on the table.
Twilight trotted over to the table and sat down next to it. "Ponopoly, huh?"
Discord opened the box, "Yup. Although, I should warn you. I am a master at this game."
Twilight raised an eyebrow, "You're a master of a board game?"
Discord shrugged, "I played with Fluttershy and her animal friends. Can you believe I almost lost to Angel?"
Twilight giggled, "I can believe it."
Discord stuck his tongue out, "Well, after that game, I learned to play and win. You are going down, Sparkle."
Twilight narrowed her eyes playfully, "Not if I take you down first."
Discord smirked and started setting up the game.
-----
"And, with this move, you are officially bankrupt. I win." Discord raised his hands in a triumphant manner.
Twilight gawked, "What? How? Who? Wha - ?"
Discord shrugged, "I told you I was a master at this game. And, I won fair and square. No twists or turns."
Twilight chuckled, "I guess you're right. Even if I lost, that was actually really fun. I...enjoyed that."
Discord smiled at her, "Me, too."
They stared at each other for about a minute.
Twilight blinked upon realizing that she had been staring. She blushed, turning away.
Discord turned away, too. Although, she couldn't tell if he was blushing.
She cleared her throat awkwardly, "Well, uh, Discord, this has been fun. But, I told Spike that I wouldn't be gone long. So, I should get going."
Discord nodded, "Of course. Here." He snapped his fingers, and a swirling vortex appeared in the room. "This portal will teleport you directly to your castle. But, it'll disappear the moment you exit it."
Twilight stood up, "Okay, thanks, Discord."
She began to trot towards the portal.
"Wait!"
Twilight turned back to Discord, "Yes?"
Discord gave a nervous chuckle, "I had a lot of fun today. I don't suppose you'd be willing to do this again? And possibly, for longer?"
Twilight looked down then looked back at him.
She smiled, "I'd be happy, too."
Discord smiled, "Wonderful. So, I'll, um, see you around."
Twilight landed near the steps of her castle, a content smile on her face. She had just visited Discord in his interdimensional home, simply to hang out.
Ever since her first visit, they had arranged several days of the month to visit each other, alternating between each other's homes.
If this had been before Tirek, Twilight probably would not have even considered doing such a thing. But, now, they were on much better terms.
She entered the palace and began trotting towards the library.
When she arrived, she spotted Spike sitting in a beanbag chair, reading a Shadow Spade novel.
Twilight smirked and raised an eyebrow, "Since when are you a fan of Shadow Spade?"
Spike's eyes widened at the sound of the alicorn's voice. He blushed, quickly closing the book. "Uh, w-well, Rarity's a fan of the series...so I thought I'd give it a shot."
Twilight giggled, "You didn't start reading it to impress Rarity, did you?"
Spike's cheeks turned a darker shade of red, "N-not at all. It's actually really good. You're not the only one who can enjoy a good book."
Twilight rolled her eyes, a teasing smile on her face, "Sure, Spike. Whatever you say." She trotted over to a bookshelf.
"So, how was your visit with Discord?"
Twilight chuckled, her smile never wavering, "It was really nice. I never thought I'd say this, but Discord is actually really good company. I can talk to him about magic, and he understands me. I love my friends dearly, but I could never get into philosophical or magical discussions with them." She let out a content sigh, "It's been really great."
Spike's eyebrows furrowed as he detected a different tone in Twilight's voice. It was the same tone he took whenever he was around Rarity.
"So, you enjoy spending time with Discord?"
Twilight nodded as she grabbed a few books off of the shelf with her magic, "I do. He's definitely not the same Discord I turned into stone. And, I like this new Discord a whole lot better. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got some reading I'd like to catch up on."
With that being said, Twilight trotted out of the library, her books floating right behind her.
Spike sat up in his beanbag, looking at the door. "Does...does she..? Nah."
Dismissing his thoughts, Spike picked up his book and continued reading.
-----
The day after, the girls were having lunch at Fine Dining, the classiest restaurant in Ponyville.
It had been awhile since they had gotten together to simply hang out. It seemed as if most of their time spent together involved battling some villain or talking about some villain. But today, they were going to enjoy each other's company.
Rarity took a bite of her salad. She levitated her napkin to her face and dabbed it lightly. She placed it back on the table then turned to her fellow mares.
"So, what's new with you, ladies?"
"Always eager for gossip, eh, Rares?" Applejack smirked.
Rarity narrowed her eyes slightly, "I beg your pardon, Applejack. Is it wrong of me to question how my friends are doing?"
Pinkie Pie bit into her breadstick, "It's not wrong at all. I love talking about what I've been doing! Yesterday, I was baking a cake, and I accidentally put Pumpkin Cake into the batter. Good thing I realized it before I put it in the oven."
The other mares looked at each other, unsure of how to respond to that.
Fluttershy cleared her throat, "Well, that's a...very interesting story, Pinkie."
Pinkie grinned, "Thanks."
Rainbow Dash scoffed, "That's nothing. Guess who's going to be flying in the air show in Manehattan?"
"Let me guess. You?"
Pinkie let out a pout, "Awww, Applejack! I wanted to answer."
Rainbow Dash rubbed her hoof against her fur, "Well, either way, you'd be right. One of the leading members of the Wonderbolts had to take a sudden leave of absence and won't be back in time for the show. Soooo, being one of the best fliers in the Reserves, it was only natural that they'd pick me to fly with them."
Twilight smiled, clapping her hooves, "Wow, Rainbow Dash! That's great. Hopefully, one day you'll get to live your dream as a Wonderbolt."
The cyan pegasus blew a strand of her rainbow mane away from her face, "That's what I'm counting on, Twi. Eventually, they'll have to recognize my awesomeness."
Applejack rolled her eyes, resting her head against her hoof, "Ah'm sure they've already recognized yer ego."
Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes at the farm pony and stuck her tongue out.
Rarity coughed, "Anyway, how about the rest of you?"
Twilight sipped her iced tea then pushed the glass away from her. She smiled, "I had a really nice visit with Discord yesterday."
Fluttershy turned to her, "Oh, I'm so glad. Glad that you and Discord are becoming such good friends."
Applejack raised an eyebrow, "You actually enjoy yer visits with Discord?"
Twilight nodded, smiling warmly. "I do. He's actually very good company. I no longer have to worry if our friendship is real or not. Because I know for a fact that it's real."
The girls all looked at each other.
Rarity put her hoof on her chest, "I've never heard you talk so fondly about Discord, darling."
Twilight chuckled, "That was before I got to know to him. Now, I can easily call him my friend."
Rarity sat back, pondering the princess's words. They sounded sincere, and yet, there was a hint of something else mixed in with them. She couldn't place her hoof on it, but there was definitely something else there.
Her train of thought was interrupted as Pinkie grinned, jumping slightly in her seat, "I can call him my friend, too! Do you think he'll make chocolate milk rain again? I love chocolate milk rain! Rainbow, why can't we have chocolate milk instead of normal rain? I mean, I love water rain as much as the next pony, but would it hurt to have different flavors of rain every once in awhile? Like lemonade, or cider, or - or - "
Pinkie's ramblings were cut off as Rainbow placed her hoof over the pink mare's mouth.
"Thank you, Pinkie. That'll be all."
Rarity shook her head, "Sometimes I wonder how we are all friends." A smile graced her lips, "But, I wouldn't ask for better friends."
Fluttershy nodded, pushing her plate away, "Neither would I. I wouldn't trade our friendship for all the gems in Equestria."
Twilight smiled, "Yes, our friendship is quite valuable." The purple alicorn stood up, levitating a small purple bag. "I'm going to go pay our tab."
"Now, there's no need for that, darling. You must not have been listening when the manager stated that our meal was free."
Twilight blinked, "He did?"
Rainbow Dash stretched her wings as she got down from her chair, "Yup. Being friends with a princess definitely has its perks."
The alicorn's ears drooped, "But, I don't feel right not paying. I may be a princess, but I'm still just a pony. I should abide by the rules."
Applejack chuckled as she swiped Twilight's bag of bits from her magical hold, "Hun, we respect that, but we'd be foals to turn down a free meal like this."
Twilight turned her head, letting out a small huff. Without turning her head back, she glanced back at Applejack, "Can we at least leave a tip?"
Applejack rolled her eyes but consented, taking a few bits out of the bag and placing them on the table.
As soon as that was done, the Element Bearers headed out.
-----
They arrived back at the Palace of Friendship not long after that. They entered the throne room and found Spike wiping off some crumbs from the Cutie Map.
Upon seeing them approaching, Spike stopped cleaning and ran to meet them, "Hey, girls. Welcome back."
Twilight patted Spike on the head, "Did you have fun with Big Mac?"
Spike grinned, "Yeah, totally."
Applejack walked forward, an eyebrow raised, "What do you and mah brother do exactly?"
Spike waved a claw nonchalantly, "Ah, you know, guy stuff."
"Ah wouldn't know what that is."
"Never mind." His eyes perked up, "Oh, Twilight! I found this box sitting on your bed. I don't know where it came from." Spike ran to Twilight's throne and grabbed a medium-sized box, covered in red and yellow polka dots.
Pinkie's eyes widened at the oddly-decorated box. "Oooooh. I wonder what's inside it."
"It could be a bomb. Don't open it!" Rainbow shielded her face with her wings.
Twilight rolled her eyes, "I don't think there's a bomb in it, Rainbow." She levitated the box and shook it with her magic.
Fluttershy took a cautious step towards it, "It sounds hard. What could be in it?"
Spike groaned, "Why don't you open it and find out?"
"Alright, alright!" Twilight lifted the lid off of the box and looked in. Her eyes widened as she spotted the contents, or rather, content of the box.
"The Abridged Theory of Disharmony? How'd this get here? I brought this with me when I visited Discord yesterday." She opened the cover of the book and found a sticky note with a message on it taped to the front page.
I enjoy our visits, Ms. Sparky. But, don't leave your books behind. I felt organization radiating from it. In fact, I think it might be the cause of the strange odor in my house. That or I haven't done laundry in thirty moons. Either way, don't forget your books. How you managed to do so, I have no idea. Discord.
A smile crept across Twilight's lips as she read the message, "Oh, Discord."
Rarity peaked over the mare's shoulder to read the note, "Darling, you actually forgot a book at Discord's house? How?"
Twilight levitated the book onto the Cutie Map and shrugged, still smiling, "I don't know. I originally brought it in case we didn't have anything else to do. But, it never came to that. We were having such a good time talking and playing games. I guess it slipped my mind. But, I'm glad he returned it to me."
There it was again. There was something mixed in Twilight's words. A different tone. It sounded happy, but Rarity could tell that it wasn't just happiness.
Twilight was happy around her friends, but Rarity never heard that tone in her voice when she was around them.
It was something different.
"Discord certainly appears to be changing, doesn't he?"
Twilight beamed, "I know, right? I much prefer this Discord to the old one." She walked over to her throne and sat down.
Rarity gave the alicorn a strange look. "Perhaps a bit more than you know."
Spike walked over to white unicorn, "Hey, Rarity. What's up?"
Rarity wrapped a hoof around Spike, bringing the little dragon in close. "Spike, have you noticed anything...different about Twilight?"
Spike brought a claw to his head and scratched, "Uh, not really? She seems a bit...happier, I guess. Other than that, nothing's really changed. Why do you ask?"
Rarity took her hoof away, shrugging, "I'm not sure. There's something different about her. I can't put my hoof around it. Something about the way she's speaking and acting. I'm sure I've seen it before, but I'm not quite sure where."
Spike raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean?"
The white unicorn brought her head down slightly, "Well, she seems to light up every time she mentions..." She looked from side to side. "...Discord."
Spike's eyes widened as he pointed a claw at her, "You noticed, too?"
Rarity put a hoof to her chest as she drew her head back up, "Noticed what?"
Spike crossed his arms, his eyebrows furrowing, "For awhile now, she's been mentioning how great her visits with Discord have been. And, like you said, she practically lights up every time she says his name. I've never seen her do that talking about any other pony."
Rarity pondered his words before finally understanding. A small gasp escaped her lips as the facts all started to come together.
"No...that can't be it! But, that would explain..." She held her head, trying to process her latest development.
"What?"
Rarity turned her head to look at the Princess of Friendship, who was talking with the other mares.
"Is it possible that our dear Twilight...likes the Spirit of Chaos?"
