> Dancing With The Shadows
>  by Vocal Sweets
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: New Year, New Lesson
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Twilight walked outside her castle, as a cool March breeze blew through her mane. She walks along the tiny bridge, which was connected to the school. 

Her school. 

The School of Friendship. 

The corridor is covered with ponies and creatures of all species and sizes. She overheard a few of her students talking as she passed by. 

“I can’t wait to see what Princess Twilight has in store for us this semester.” an overly excited pegasus says. 

“You twit! She’s a Headmistress, as well as a teacher.” Sasses a unicorn. 

“Duh, I know that! But she is still the overall Princess of Friendship.” Twilight giggled under her breath, then focused back on the task at hoof.

 “Okay Twilight, just breath. This is your friendship school! I just have to meet with the girls and assign the rooms.” Twilight said, pulling out her list. 

“Hey, Twilight!” Greeted Starlight. 

“Hey Starlight! Where are the girls?” She asks. She saw everypony here except the girls.

“They should be here in a few. I imagine that they are trying to find their way around this place.” Starlight giggles. 

“Well I guess they could get their classes assi-” Twilight got cut off by Applejack, who was racing towards Twilight. “Sorry we're late, Twilight.” Apologizes Applejack. 

“Yeah, who knew how big this school would be to find your way around this place!” Pinkie pipes up. 

“Well, now that we are all here I can assign the room I have given to you.” Twilight passes out each a map and schedule to the 7 girls. 

“Ooo, I get to teach fashion!” Squeals Rarity. 

"Yeah, because we all know how important fashion is to you Rarity.” Mutters Rainbow Dash. 

The girls giggle. Rainbow Dash looks over her map and schedule. “I get to coach some of the flyers here? Sweet!” 

“You were saying, Rainbow Dash?” A playful smirk plays onto Rarity lips. 

“If you need help showing you to your rooms, I could get Starlight to-” Twilight stated.

 “Oh, please Twilight. We're not little fillies you know.” Pinkie Pie says. 

Twilight arches an eyebrow. “And how long did it take you to find your way to the main lobby?” She asks in a deadpan voice. 

“Hehe forty-five minutes.” Pinkie Pie said, giving her a nervous giggle, as she rubbed the back of her neck. 

Twilight rolls her eyes in a playful manner. “Starlight, do you think you can show the girls to their rooms?” Starlight nodded. 

“Come on, girls. I already have this place memorized like the back of my hoof.” Starlight directed the girls down the hall. 

“Can't believe we are getting treated like fillies.” Mutters Rainbow Dash, who Twilight overhead as she passed by. Twilight giggles to herself, then looks around the school everything was in perfect order.  Twilight gazes down at the list, she grabs a quill in her aura and checks off everypony’s name. 

Except for one. 

“Hmm? I must have missed this pony,” Twilight looked at the name: Professor Shining Star. “Must be new here. I would hate to get off on the wrong hoof with him/her. No matter! I'll just go greet myself to them. Just be friendly, but not too friendly.” Twilight made her way down the hall, making a left turn. 

“Princess Twilight?” A young unicorn asks.

“Oh, hello there! How may I help you?”  Asks Twilight. 

“Could you point me in the direction of…” The unicorn looked at her schedule. “Applejack's Homecare and Wellness class?” 

 “That is down the hall. Take a right and it is the fourth door on your left.” Directed Twilight. 

The unicorn giggled and ran off. “Thanks!” She shouts. 

Twilight focused back on the task at hoof. There before her was Professor Shining Star door. “They must have already made themselves at home.” Sighing Twilight uses the breathing technique Cadence showed her to use whenever she felt nervous or stressed. 

“Besides as long as Celestia believes in me, I know I can do this!” Twilight mutters, trying to boost her self-confidence. She knocked on the door before entering. “I bet this new professor is some harmless, strict, for-” 

“Come in.” Muffles a voice. 

 Twilight pushes the door open to the professor’s room. She noticed that he was writing a complex spell onto the board. “Good morning, Professor Shining Star.” The professor turned away from the board to reveal the rest of his appearance. His coat was light grey like the color of a pre-storm cloud with wavy-like salt and pepper colored mane His beard was a medium sized goat-tee. His tail was long with the same colors as his mane. His cutie mark symbolized a tornado. His eyes showed an aquatic blue. 

Twilight stopped in her tracks. Her mind racing and her heart skipping a beat. Blush rose to her cheeks and spread like wildfire, making it no

Flustered by the looks of this dapper professor, Twilight was rather speechless by his outward appearance. Professor Shining Star grins at Twilight giving his hoof for her to shake. “Headmistress Twilight Sparkle, I presume? Pleasure to meet you.” His accent was thick almost British-like. 

“P-Please Headmistress Twilight is fine,” Says Twilight. After the blush tones down from her face she continues. “But it's wonderful to meet somepony who is willing to teach “Physics of Forgiveness” is one of the most complicated subjects. Because no pony really understands what it means to Forgive. But, I am so relieved to have found a quality instructor willing to teach it.” 

Professor Star waved a dismissive hoof in front of The Princess of Friendship. “Tish Tosh, my dear! It’s an honor to teach here! I mean just look at where we are standing! You made this school happen! After others have said you can not do something that you love! You took a stand and realized that everypony deserves to learn friendship.  Other ponies- would have probably stepped down- but you, you let your voice be heard and opened a School of Friendship! Opening it to other races other than the traditional races. You have a whole new race at your disposal such as hypogriffions, yaks, dragons, and changelings.” 

Twilight slouched for a bit, slightly annoyed by how much this stallion rambles. “Everypony thought that you couldn't do it. Putting you down when you least expected it. They say you were crazy to even consider something like this to even happen! But, I say you’re crazy like a fox.” 

This statement broke Twilight from her stubborn streak, Professor Shining Star now had Twilight’s full attention. “You have defined what friendship truly means. Embrace chaos!” He chuckled to himself. “Consider me a fan.” 

Blush returned to Twilight’s cheeks. This time she was speechless. Somepony was a fan of her hard, dedicated work? Nopony- besides her family, friends and of course Celestia herself- has admired her work, but not like this. “... I well… Thank you, Professor.” 

 Twilight gazed around the spacious room, proud of herself and how far she has come. “But I can’t take all the credit! It was my friends and Princess Celestia who encouraged and suggested that I should open a School of Friendship. Plus the map was expanding much more. For example, it has reached out from Saddle Arabia to Manehattan.  However, I have always supported the idea of teaching Friendship to non-unicorns- I mean anypony can learn friendship. So after months of structure research and educating myself in different races it became perfectly easy...to...embrace….chaos.” 

Smoke enveloped around the unicorn stallion, Twilight stopped in her tracks once more. This time Twilight was pondering her thoughts to herself before it all became clear. “.... Where have I heard that saying before?” Thought Twilight.

Her eyes widen in bewilderment. “I bet you think this is really funny.” Twilight turned half around giving a glare at the “stallion”. Her voice now had the tone of distaste and slight bitterness. “.... Discord.” 

Discord gawks at the Princess of Friendship’s expression, laughing. “Actually, dear headmistress… I thought it was hilarious. I mean being a headmistress of your own school, who-” 

Twilight cuts him off. “What are you even doing here Discord?” Bitterness laced in Twilight's voice. “Well if you ask me I think the question is why did you hire me?” Discord riddled. Twilight was slightly confused at what the draconequus was inclining. 

“Looks like to me you couldn’t resist my charms.” He looks at Twilight with a sly fox-like smile. 

“Pft, you wish.” Twilight scoffed. 

Discord rolled his eyes. “Oh come on Twi Twi-” 

“Don’t call me that!” Twilight hissed. 

Discord sighed. “Anyways, you “claim” you are not into me, huh?” Discord asks, backing Twilight into a corner, holding an intense gaze at her. “No.” Twilight said, her tone blunt. Discord transformed back into the stallion Twilight first encountered. “So you are saying your not into this?” A playful smile spread across his lips. 

Heat rose to Twilight’s face. “N-no..” She stammered. “It looks like to me like somepony is lying to herself.” Discord teased. Twilight tried to get out of the corner that she was backed into, but between the two of them she knew there was no escaping. “Discord, I swear to Celestia if you do not let me go.” Twilight said, her tone sounded harsh she intended it to be, but her eyes seething distaste in the creature.

 “Twilight,” the draconequus stated. “You can lie to yourself all you want to, but I know you have feelings for me.” Twilight stayed silent for a moment thinking of what to say to him. “I thought you were in love with Fluttershy?” 

“Psh, that was in quite a few audio dramas especially a popular one: Bride of Discord.” said the draconequus. “Wait… what?” Twilight looked at him with confusion. “What are you talking about?” Discord sighed, muttering to himself. “Oh, right I forgot you didn’t like me that much in that one,” he turned his attention back to Twilight, who was still glazed with confusion. “Ugh, never mind!” Discord said. 

Twilight scrunched her nose, not liking the words that were about to come out of her mouth next. “When did you ever start taking a liking to me anyways?” she asked Discord tapped his beard with his hoof.

“Hmm that’s a good question! Give me a second.” He grabs the script, wearing his reading glasses as he flips through the pages. “So that is why I started falling for you? Who came up with that genius idea?” Discord asked to no one in particular, as he scans the rest of the scene. 

“Vocal Sweets, what have you got yourself into?” He mutters to himself, he poofs away the script. While looking at a slightly confused Twilight. 

“Look as much as I would love to figure out why you have fallen for me, which I will seem to never figure out.  I actually have office papers I need to return to filling out.” Twilight grabs Discord in her aura and pushes him to the side, she trots forth toward the door and leaves. 

“I actually know why I have fallen for you. Just wish you felt the same way Princess.” Discord mutters to himself. 


	***


Twilight heads back into her office, shutting the door behind her. Sighing she slumps into her seat, eyeing the stack of papers to her left that she still needed to sign and put away. A quill wraps around in her magenta aura as Twilight bears down on the paper, signing her name. After what seemed like the two-hundredth paper Twilight had signed, there was a knock on the door. “Go away, Discord!” shouted Twilight. “Uh… Twilight? It’s just me.” A familiar voice called from the other side of the door.

 “Calm down, it’s just Starlight.” 

“Yeah, sure come in Starlight.” Announces Twilight. 

Starlight opened the door. “Woah! looks like you have a lot of papers to file away. Do you need any help?” Starlight asks.

 “No, thanks Starlight. I have a simple spell for that.” Twilight let her aura grab the stack of papers and put them away. 

“Finally done for the day.” Twilight said, said as she begin to lock her office door, with Starlight in tow she begin to walk down the empty hallway.

They stayed silent for the next five minutes until they were both outside of the school. 

“Hey, Twilight. Can I ask you a question?” Asks Starlight. 

“Hm? Sure Starlight.” Said Twilight. 

“Is everything okay with you? You have been acting really strange all morning.” Starlight questions her friend. It was already 5 and Celestia was starting to set the sun. 

 Twilight’s thoughts traveled back to that room and to Discord, but she brushed off the thought. “... I’m fine.” Mutters Twilight in a slight high pitch tone. 

“Really? Because the tone in your voice says otherwise.” Starlight said, her voice laced in worrisome for her friend. Twilight sighs. “Yes, I’m fine now will you please get off my back? I’m just really tired, all I want to do is  head home and lay in my bed just to  forget that this whole day ever happened.” Starlight was about to ask her another question, but decided to brush it off. 

Not wanting to annoy the Princess any further. She left it at this as her last word: “Okay, but if you need someone to talk to about anything that is on your mind just know that I am here for you.” Starlight gave her a small smile. Twilight returns the small smile back, turning off the lights in her office and leaves. 


***


Discord drummed his claw onto his couch, thinking and pondering what exactly just happened today between the Lord of Chaos and The Princess of Friendship. 

Discord sighed knowing that The Princess of Friendship could never fall for someone like him. “Who am I kidding, she will never fall for me.” The draconequus thought to himself. “Yet why do I have feelings for her?” He lets out a groan of frustration. “I mean yeah I know why I have feelings for her, but this doesn’t make sense! Even to me, and I’m the Lord of Chaos!” 

“I really need somepony to talk to about this. I mean, I can’t talk to Twilight about this, she will only brush it off.” Discord thought to himself for a moment. “And her friends will only tell Twilight, especially PInkie Pie. We all know how hard it is for her to keep this a secret.” Discord tapped a claw to his chin. He then had an idea of who he could talk to about this. Somepony who know Twilight better than Twilight knows herself. A light bulb when off from over his head as he knew the perfect pony to ask about Twilight. 

In a flash he teleports himself to The Crystal Empire, sadly not the location he was desired to be at. Night had fallen across the Empire. However, two tiny lights were still shine from inside the palace. Indicating that somepony was still awake at this hour. Discord snapped his claw once more, this time inside the palace, but once again not in his desired location. Instead he comes in contact with aquamarine blue eyes. The filly look like she wanted to scream at that moment, but Discord quickly silences her. “Calm down, it's just me Flurry Heart.” 

Flurry silently nodded and the draconequus unzipped her mouth. 

“What are you doing here Discord?” Flurry Heart asks out of curiosity. 

“Oh, I'm just here for a quick visit.” Discord said, trying not to let the filly pry into his business.

“Oh, um okay while you are here would you like to play? I was currently having a  tea party with my snail Wammy, but I wasn't aware of another guest coming.” Flurry gave Discord a toothy grin. 

Discord tried not to gag at how girly it seemed, but then again he didn't really want to break the young filly’s heart. “Hmm fine, a quick mini tea party game then I have to actually go see if your mother is around.” Discord snaps into a slick tuxedo, but Flurry insisted that he wears a light yellow tutu with a silver princess tiara. “I really hope nopony sees me like this.” Discord grumbles to himself. 

“So, mind if I ask why do you need to see my mommy?” Flurry asks, as she passes the tea to Discord. “Aren't you a curious little filly?” Discord chuckles, pouring himself some tea. “Well yeah, I am five after all.” Flurry states, sipping some of her tea. Discord sighed. “I can't believe I am telling this to a five year old.” Discord mutters to himself. “If you must know I need to talk to your mother about some love advice.” 

Flurry Heart gazed at Discord with a spark of admiration in her eyes. “Well, mommy is kind of busy right now she's helping daddy with something, I think…” the little filly trailed off for a moment before getting back to that she was planning on saying. “But anyways I would like to try and help you with your love advice!” Flurry flashed Discord with another toothy grin. 

“Ya know...as much as I just love hearing the advice of a young filly such as yourself, I was thinking more along the lines of asking your mother, not that your advice isn't just so good!” Discord sprouts an extra pair of eyes at the back of his head, and rolls them in a sarcastic manner. “But I feel Cadence is more adept in her experience of...ugh...Love!...” 

Flurry pout for a moment. “Fine, but I'm telling you she is going to be gone for a good while.” 

Bewilderment struck the Princess of Love, trying to find the right words to say.

“I know what you are thinking, but I can pull this off better than you can and I look fabulous!” Discord said, flipping his fake mane. 

“.... Umm sweetie why don't you head to bed, while Discord and I have apparently  a small chit chat.” Cadence shot Discord an odd look, before returning a small smile to her daughter. She leads Discord out into the hallway and into the living room. 

Discord sits on the couch with Cadence across from him in a lounge chair. “So you needed to see me?” Cadence asked, trying her best to not to burst out of laughter at Discord’s appearance. “I’m sorry, but I can’t take you seriously when you look like that..” Cadence said, laughing.

 “Oh, ha ha. Very funny.” Discord muttered. He snaps his fingers and transforms back into his regular self.
“But yes, I did need to see you Cadence. You see I have this friend of mine who is having a problem with his friend. He likes her, however he feels like she doesn’t seem to feel the same way. Do you have any advice on what they could do to win their mare friend over?”

Well, I really don’t know if Twilight Sparkle even considers me her “friend”. Discord thought the last bit to himself. 

 “Well there hasn’t been a helpless lover's case I haven’t solved yet. So, yours should not be too difficult to solve.”  Cadence said. “Does she have anything that she likes? Something that could bring her happiness, perhaps.” Discord starts to think of all the things Twilight enjoys doing like hanging with her friends, books, and hopefully her happiness would be him one day when the time comes. 

Discord rose from his seat. “I think I have a pretty good idea of what I can tell my friend.” Discord said grinning. “Thanks Cadie! You were a big help! Boy he will be so glad to hear the news once I tell him.” And in a flash Discord left. 

“I wonder who that draconequus is in love with this time?” Cadence asked, a smile played upon her lips. Cadence thought of so many ships that Discord has been involved with that she has lost count: Fluttershy, Luna and Celestia.

Heck it could be any of those mares.


****


Candles lit the dining hall of the castle, Twilight was dressed in a sparkle dark blue gown, her mane done in an elegant up do. Diamond earrings enchanting her ears. Her hoofs echo into the empty dining hall of her castle. “Hello? Is anypony there?” Twilight walks in her silver shoes that Rarity let her borrow, however she couldn’t exactly recall why she even had these shoes or even the dress for a matter of fact, in the first place. 

She looked out at the spread of food before her. It had all of her favorite foods. “Whoever could have done this was very generous, maybe even more generous than Rarity.”  

“Why don’t you look beautiful tonight, Miss. Sparkle.” Heat rose to Twilight’s cheeks, and spread across her cheeks like wildfire. She spun around in her dress, but her face turn to one of distastefulness.

“Discord? How did you get in my castle?” She asked. 

He chuckled. “Oh I have my ways, dear.” He flicks his tail under her chin.

“But why did you do this whole spread for me?” Twilight asked. “Can’t I just do something nice for somepony for once?” Discord questioned.

“Well- yeah but-” Twilight got cut off by the sound of music. 

“Oh! I love this song. Care to dance?” Discord asked, holding out his lion paw to her. Twilight was reluctant at first. 

“Come on, I won’t pull anything over you.” Twilight raised an eyebrow. “I pinkie promise.” Twilight rolled her eyes. As if I have a choice. Discord leads Twilight in a simple, but elegant dance. "I didn't know you knew how to dance to classical music." Twilight said, her lips played a smile, mixed with mystery and playfulness. “Well… there are a lot of things you don’t know about me.” Discord said with a sly smile. 

Discord tries pulling Twilight close to him, but Twilight pushes him away. “Wait… this is wrong.” “How is this wrong? I do care about you, Twilight.” “Well for starters, I’m an independent mare with responsibilities and now a school to run. I just can’t handle adding being in a relationship into the mix, I’m sorry.” The music stopped and the buffet table disappeared, even Discord himself disappeared like a puff of thin smoke. “Wait.. what’s going on?” Twilight gazed out of her dim lit kitchen window, the moon still shone brightly. “Discord? Where are you?! Could you at least leave the food?!” Twilight groans in frustration. 

“Hello, Princess Twilight Sparkle. Don’t you look very elegant!” A familiar voice greets Twilight in a calm, yet warm tone. Twilight greets Princess Luna with a slight bow.

“Princess Luna? Thank you, but I don’t understand… is-is this a dream?” Twilight questioned Luna.

“This is very much a dream, Princess.” Luna confirmed Twilight’s suspicions.

“B- But why am I having a dream about Discord out of all the ponies in Equestria. Why him?” 

Luna gazed at Twilight with a calm expression still on her face. “I am not an expert on love like Cadence, but if my hunch is correct could it be that you actually do have feelings for Discord and you are tired of hiding your feelings, but when you do you just bottle up your real emotions for him.” 

Every word that Princess Luna was speaking was exactly the truth. Twilight did have feelings for Discord; she just didn’t know how to express them. 

Twilight sighed, “Maybe you’re right.” 

“Look, Tia and I have known Discord for longer than you have Twilight and I have to say- and my sister will probably agree to this as well. He’s not overall a bad guy. Chaotic? Yes. But overall he is a good guy.” Luna smiled at Twilight. 

“But like I told Discord and now I am telling you.. I can’t be in love with anypony!” Twilight said, frustration as well as a bit of stress laced her voice. 

“You know if I had hands instead of hoofs I would slap you and shake you a couple of times just to make you realize how stubborn you are being towards yourself and your feelings.” Luna said, in a slightly stern voice. 

She then sighed. “Look Twilight for the sake of yourself, sanity and most importantly feelings please be honest with Discord, but most importantly be honest with yourself.” 

Twilight jerked out of her sleep in sudden awake. Gazing at the clock it reads 11:34 pm. “It was just a dream, but it felt so real.” Twilight mumbled to herself. Grogginess left her body, but she got out of bed anyways despite the time. Twilight walked towards her mirror and gazed at her slight frazzled appearance. 

"Ugh! What's the matter with me? You think a mare would learn..." Twilight mutters to herself.

Luna watched from the bay window smiling to herself, before flying back to Canterlot.
> Chapter 2: Falling In Love Is Harder Than It Looks
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Good afternoon, Princess!” Discord greeted the Princess in a very cheerful tone. He startled Twilight awake from her slumber. In a scare Twilight screams, falling out of her bed. “Discord!” Twilight scolded. “How did you- wait… what time is it?” she asks her tone, laced with worry. 

 “It’s 2:30 in the afternoon, why?” Discord questioned Twilight, who was pacing back and forth in her bedroom. 

“I have a class I have to teach today! I can’t believe I overslept!” Twilight said. 

“Oh, I actually took care of that for you, Twilight. Starlight said that she came into your room and tried to wake you, but you didn’t arise. She even got your most trusted Royal Guard Tempest Shadow to come in and check on you.” Discord explains. 

 “Wait, you were Headmaster for the day?” Twilight questioned. 

“Yeah, but I do not see how you get it all done. Honestly, it’s so tiring.” Discord complained, slumping down on the edge of Twilight’s bed. 

She let out a small giggle. “Well, thank you for taking care of it.” Said Twilight. 

The sound of pure silent sound fills the bedroom for a mere few seconds. “I just thought you could use the day off, honestly.” Discord admitted.

 “Well thanks.” Twilight said, rubbing her hoof. Just tell Discord, how you truly feel about him. Twilight thought to herself.  I mean she just admitted to herself last night that she had actual feelings for him even to the Princess Of The Night! 

Twilight sighed. “Discord… there’s something I have to tell you.” Twilight said. Twilight got interrupted by Tempest Shadow.

 “Your highness, there is an attack in Canterlot.” Tempest explains. An unsettling face set on the Princess’s face. “Um… Tempest.. I am kind of in the middle of something. Can’t you ask Celestia to handle this?” Twilight asked.

“Your Highness, you know yourself that Celestia throws you through the ringer practically when danger comes to Equestria.” Tempest said, in practically a deadpan tone. She had a point. Twilight was always the one Celestia depended on during a crisis.

 Twilight sighed, rising from the bed. She turned and looked towards Discord. “Do you think we could talk about this later?” Twilight looked at Discord with gentle and understanding in her eyes. “Sure,” Discord said, his eyes downcasted. Twilight gave a small smile and left. 

Tempest looked over at Discord, who was still sitting on Twilight’s bed. “Hey, are you okay?” She looked at Discord, concern edged onto her face. “ Sort of. I mean if you ask me Twilight is very confusing.” 

“What do you mean?” Tempest asks. “I mean it's like one minute she does have feelings for me and then the next day she doesn't.” Tempest bit the inside of her cheek. I know exactly what you mean. She thinks to herself. “When it comes to repressing emotions for somepony you like it becomes conflicting and confusing, it can also mess with your head and play with your emotions.”

 “I think I have taken note of that.” Discord mumbled. “But if you would like a real answer out of Twilight, maybe you could do something romantic for her.” Tempest suggested. “But I thought giving her the day off was considered romantic?” Discord complains. “If you ask me it was a nice gesture, just not romantic enough. You need to think bigger!” Explains Tempest. 

An idea pops into Discord’s head. “Say, When did you become a romantic Tempest? I never knew it to be in your nature.” 

Tempest gags a bit. “Don’t remind me! But I’m not!”

 “So what changed your attitude towards it?” Discord questions. 

“Let's just say a group of happy, pastel ponies have changed my attitude towards it.” Tempest sighs. “Well I better get back to patrolling and protecting. A guards work is never done.” Tempest turns towards the door. 

Before she walked out, Discord stopped her. “Tempest?” Tempest turns to look at him and raises an eyebrow. “Hm?”

  “Thank you.” Tempest nods and walks off. Maybe Twilight's friend's could help me. 

Discord snaps his claw. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy appear practically out of thin air.

 Applejack kicks Rainbow Dash across the floor. “Ow! What was that for AJ?!” Rainbow Dash wails. “Whoops, sorry sugarcube! I thought you were an apple tree.” Rainbow snorts and rolls her eyes. 

“Discord? What are you doing in Twilight’s room?” Pinkie asks. Discord decides to dodge that question. “You girls may be wondering why I called you over here, instead of Twilight.” Discord says.

 “Well I hope it's important! I was in the middle of practicing for a Wonderbolts air show for next weekend.” Rainbow Dash complains. 

“And I was about to teach Pound and Pumpkin Cake the difference between sugar and baking soda. I  mean both ingredients are a white substance.” Pinkie Pie says.

 “Is Twilight in trouble, darling?” Rarity asks.

 “Actually no. I am.” Discord mumbles.

“What seems to be the problem, Discord?” Fluttershy asks, worried for her friend. Discord balls up his fist, terrified of his friend's reaction to this news. 

“I need to know how does somepony plans a romantic evening?” Discord mutters the last part to himself.

 “I'm sorry sugarcube, I didn't get that last bit. Plan what now?” Applejack says. “A romantic evening?” Discord repeated himself. 

Everypony looks at Discord. “So you mean like a date?” Rarity assumed. Discord slowly nodded. Everypony just stares, except for Rainbow Dash who laughs. They turned in her direction. 

“....Oh? You were serious.” Rainbow Dash said, her eyes slightly widened at the fact that The Lord Of Chaos had a crush on The Princess of Friendship. 

“Who is this date for, Discord?” Fluttershy asks. Discord contemplates rather or not to tell them that this date is really for their friend, Twilight. 

“Ooo, is it for Twilight?” Pinkie guessed, her eyes fluttering. Everypony looks at Pinkie this time with their mouths agape. 

“Now why in the hay would it be for Twilight, Pinkie?” Applejack questions her bubbly pink friend. 

“Just a hunch!” Pinkie grins. 

“Actually Pinkie. You are right this is for Twilight.” Discord said. 

“What?!” The girls were shocked.

 “Wait a second!” Pinkie holds up her hoof, she quickly grabs a bottle of water from her mane, uncaps the lid and chugs the drink down, only to do a spit tank in the end. 

“Since when does Discord have the hots for Twilight?” Rainbow Dash injects.

 “Rainbow Dash!” Applejack scolds. 

“What? It's true!” Rainbow Dash complains. 

“Well… you see- Discord was about to finish, when Pinkie replies. 

“You didn't actually have feelings for Twilight until Season two, because you two have very different personality traits. However, you really enjoy toying with her emotions even going as far as to mess with her mind. It really wasn't until Season 4. Until you were completely head over heels for her!” Pinkie said grinning. 

“Also something about you two being immortal but, let’s not get into that theory! Pinkie Pie said, lightly giggling.  

“Um, Pinkie where did you come up with that theory?” Fluttershy asks.

“Yeah, I don't think it happened like that, Pinkie.” Rainbow Dash says, slightly annoyed.

“Actually she is pretty much spot on.” Discord said. 

“Yeah! It's called a fan theory, duh!” Pinkie said. 

“So, do you girl’s think you could help set it up?” Discord asks. 

“ I mean if you really want to impress Twilight, then we will have to pull out all the stops!” Rarity said. 

“Do you know where you want to have it at Discord?” Fluttershy asks.

 Discord ponders for a moment. “We could have it on the balcony!” Discord said.

“Oh! That does sound romantic!” Rarity squeals. 

“But don't you think her balcony is a bit small for that?” Applejack states.

 “Nothing, but a bit of chaotic magic can't fix!” Discord snaps his claw to extend Twilight's balcony. “Applejack, do you think you could go down to the flower shop and pick up some red roses?” Rarity questions. 

“Fluttershy and Rainbow, could you two go find some white transparent silk curtains?” Rarity asked the two. 

“I'll do Twilight's evening wear. Pinkie do you happen to still have those clear Heartwarming lights, from last year's Heartwarming?” Rarity asked looking at Pinkie Pie. 

“Colorful? Yes. I'm not sure if I still have the clear ones, but I can ask Mrs. Cake though.” Pinkie said. 

“Perfect! We will meet back here in two hours!” Rarity said. 


 **** 


Afternoon has dawned on Canterlot, the sky in various hues of lavender, pink, and orange.

“Thank you once again for saving us, Twilight.” Said Celestia.

“Yes! Those little creatures are adorable, but don't let them fool you. They are practically a pest!” Luna complains. 

“Actually the creatures you encountered were parasprites.” Twilight informed them.

“It's been forever since we have seen those tiny creatures.” Celestia said.

“I'm just glad Twilight had a chance to stop them, before they had a chance to do some massive damage.” Luna giggles.

“You're welcome.” Twilight smiled. 

“If you two will excuse me I have some papers I need to fill out.” Celestia said, trotting back to the throne room. Luna looked behind her to make sure the coast was clear before she began to speak.

“Excuse me, Princess but before you leave, do you think we could talk?” Luna asks. Twilight was a bit confused. “Sure, Princess.” 

“I have actually witnessed your dream the other night.” Luna says, with a small smile.

“W-what dream?” Twilight asks, slightly flustered. 

Luna gives a smug smile. “Oh I think you already know. But have you told him?” Twilight knew exactly what she was talking about now. Blushing slightly she mumbles. “Not yet.” Luna sighs. “Well here's some advice: You better tell them now, before somepony better comes along and sees that they are worth their time. Time is a very valuable thing, Twilight.” 

Twilight nods. “I understand.” She says. 

“Before, I got sent to the moon. I was once in love with somepony. However, it was a thousand years ago. His name was Shadow, he became my best friend. He had feelings for me, as if I was the only mare in the world! The night I got banished to the moon, he watched in agony and pain. He said that he never wanted to hurt me. Yet, he was hurting my sister in the process. I called him a shadow because that was all he really was. That night he vanished, never to be seen again.” 

Twilight looks at the Princess of the Night, who had the look of remorse etched onto her face. “Sorry to sound, disrespectful princess, but why are you telling me this?” “I'm just saying: Don't build yourself a wall, only to block the ponies who truly care about you out of your life or you will miss out on all the great opportunities in your life to experience.” Luna said. “Your right.” Twilight said. “Thanks, Princess Luna for the advice.” Luna nods and walks off. 

I think I'm going to fly back to the castle, just to do some thinking and to clear my head. 


*** 


 Discord looks around the balcony, it looks romantic enough for any mare to fall head over hooves in. It looks like this came straight out of a romance novel. Rose petals scatter across the floor, as white silk wraps around the veranda entwined with the clear twinkling lights that Pinkie borrowed from Mrs. Cake. Candles lit around the girls and himself, making the flames dance-not literally however. Soft music plays in the background, as a tray of pasta and French bread from a local restaurant that Discord totally didn't steal from was displayed on a mediocre sized table. 

 “Is there anything missing?” Discord asked, looking a bit nervous.

“Hmm… everything seems to be in order.” Pinkie said. “And it looks so romantic!” Rarity swoons. “I really can't thank you girls enough for pulling this off. I just hope she likes it.” Discord says, eyeing the decorations. “Twilight may be a simple mare, and not over the top like Rarity is-” Rainbow Dash says. “Hey!” Rarity whines. “But I'm sure she will love it, especially if she sees that you put this much effort into it.” Applejack finishes for Rainbow. 

“Discord you definitely know how to clean up nicely.” Fluttershy says. “Well thank you,” Discord says, smiling. He was dressed in a crisp black tuxedo, he was wearing a pair of white satin gloves. His mane slicked back with gel. The clock reads 8:00 pm. “Ugh, where is she?” Discord asks. 

The cool crisp nighttime breeze rakes through Twilight's mane. She sits on a spare cloud, contemplating her thoughts. Twilight even thought back to Luna’s advice. Why does he have to mess with my mind like this? I mean I think I have feelings for him, but then again-. Frustration over took her emotions and she lets out a scream. “Ugh! Why does he have to so be discordant?!” Twilight sighed. “Having feeling for somepony especially for him is so complicated! I mean one minute I'm head over hooves, the next I'm hating his guts.” “What is wrong with me!” Twilight groans in agony. 

Twilight squeezes her eyes shut, making a pros and cons list inside her head. She slowly opens her eyes. “I think I know my answer.” She then takes to the sky once more this time heading back to the castle. 


*** 


Drained and tired, Twilight collapses onto her bed. It was 8:45 pm and all she wanted to do was slam her face into her pillow, and sleep. Instead she smashes it into something soft and silky. 

“Uh? What's this?” Twilight picks up the the dress. 

Beside the dress held a folded letter, that had her name on a small parchment scribbled in fancy font: “Twilight”. 

No mistake, it was Rarity’s horn writing. 

Twilight opens the paper, as a sense that it was folded in half. 
“Please wear this dress and meet me outside. 

Xoxo,


Rarity 💋  


Twilight removes the card. Looks like another one of Rarity’s designs, but what is this dress for? 

The dress had an elegant shade of magenta and gold trimming around the straps as well as on the waistline of it. It was simply the most beautiful dress she has ever seen. Why would Rarity want me to meet her outside? With this dress on? She saw a faint glow coming from outside. “What the-” 

Twilight puts on her dress and begins to descend down her hallways walking towards the light, seeing it gets brighter with each step she takes. 

Twilight pushes the double doors to open her balcony. “Rarity? Are you out here?” She asked. 

But instead of Rarity, it was Discord. “Discord? What are you doi-” Twilight looks around her surroundings. Her face in complete surprise and shock. “Oh! What's all of this for?” Twilight asks, blush rose to her cheeks. “Well, I thought we could have dinner under the stars tonight.” Said Discord, who politely pulls Twilight chair out for her. 

“The last time I checked you didn't live here,” Twilight said, slightly giggling. “However, I didn't peg you as having a  romantic bone in your body, Discord.” Twilight says. “Well I can be full of surprises.” Discord grins. 

“Uh guys, why are we hiding in the bushes?” Fluttershy asks. “Because we are going to see how Discord and Twilight’s date goes!” Pinkie hissed, while watching them through her binoculars. “So, we're pretty much stalking them.” Applejack said, in a deadpanned tone. 

“More or less.” Rainbow said, waving a hoof. “Shh! I can't hear them!” Rarity said, shutting up the rest of her friends. 

“This dinner looks delicious, Discord! Did you make it?” Twilight wonders, looking down at her pasta. “Of course!” Discord said. Twilight looks at him with a raised eyebrow. “Well you try cooking food thirty times only to screw up every dish, even if it was simple!” Discord huffs which in return makes Twilight giggles. “It's fine, really.” Twilight assures, picking up a fork with her aura. “Even if you did steal this from a restaurant, my compliments goes to whoever the chief was who made this meal.” 

“Hey Twilight?” Discord asks, rubbing the back of his neck. Twilight looks up with her eyes through the crystal champagne glass. She sets her drink down. “Yeah?” “Remember that day I told you that I have feelings for you?” Twilight nodded her head. “Well I was, being honest with myself, my feelings and with you. I really do care about you. Yes, I understand we do have our disagreements here and there and we don't get along with each other 90% of the time, but if you ask me that is what makes any friendship or even a relationship stronger than before.” 

“Why does everypony have to be honest with me today? I mean first Luna, now him?” Twilight thought to herself. Luna's words of advice echoes in her mind.

 “I just hope you can be honest with me, like I am being with you.” Discord finishes, looking down at his plate. 

Twilight bit the inside of her jaw. “Discord, believe me I have thought long and hard about this-” 

“Of course you did.” Discord teases. Twilight blushes slightly. “But Discord, trust me and please believe me when I say this.  know we have known each other for 7 ½ years, maybe longer who knows. But if I am being honest with myself, my feelings and with you then I-” 

 Rainbow was next to look through the binoculars. “Ugh! This is taking forever! Why don't they just kiss already!” “Romance and confessed feelings take time, darling.” Rarity swoons. “Well if you ask me, it seems like it takes forever!” Rainbow grumbles. Rarity rolls her eyes. 

Discord looks deep into the princess's eyes. He could feel a spark between the two, and he hopes that she could feel it was well. Be honest with him. Twilight thought. “Discord I-” 
> Chapter 3: The "Ail-icorn" Epidemic
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

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

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

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


*** 


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

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

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

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

“What!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Applejack you're supposed to be the Element of Honesty!”

 “Well it was your idea, Pinkie Pie and that’s the honest truth.” Rarity was the next one to speak up. She noticed that Twilight was just looking for a straightforward answer, instead of beating around the bush. 

“Twilight… we may have wanted to see how your date was going along.” Rarity confessed. 

“So you pretty much, spied on us!” Rage was seething on Twilight's face, mixed with a tad of annoyance. 

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

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

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

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


*** 



2 months later… 


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


 Dear Spike, 


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



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


  - Discord 



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


*** 

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

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

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

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


*** 

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

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

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

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

“Food poison?” Pinkie Pie wonders.

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

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

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

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

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

“Well, she said she still felt “fine” when I talked with her. But I honestly don’t fully believe her. 
” Said Applejack. 

Spike thought for a moment. “....Where is she now?” He asks. 

“She's still in her room.” Pinkie Pie says. “I tried to bake her a 'Get Well Soon’ cake, but she got nausea, and started hiccuping up bubbles?” Everypony looks at Pinkie as if she had lost her mind. “What? She did!” Pinkie whines. 

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

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

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

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

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

“Do you girl's mind taking Kunzite outside? He could really work on his flying skills.” Spike said. “Dad! I can fly just fine!” He whines. “Oh yeah? Well let's see.” He said. 

Kunzite attempts to fly, but only stays in the air for a few seconds, before falling to the ground. “Ow!” 

“Looks like to me, you could use a bit more practice.” Spike said. 

“Come on, kid. I can teach you to fly perfect in ten seconds flat.” Rainbow, spreads her wings. “Well since you are practically a Wonderbolt legend, I hope I can learn fast.” Kunzite said grinning. 

“Well, let's just say you better keep up kid.” Rainbow Dash said, smirking at the small drake. 

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


***


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Twilight!” Spike said, worried. 

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

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

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

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

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

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


*** 


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'What!” They cry in unison. 

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

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

“Pinkie!” 


***


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

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

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

 “Does anypony have any water?” Kunzite asks, looking around at the mares. Pinkie dug around in her hair and instead of water, she pulls out a bottle of hot sauce. “Uh, Pinkie. How hot is that hot sauce?” Applejack questioned looking at the pink bubbly mare. 

Pinkie Pie didn’t answer, she unscrews the lid and pours the contents into his mouth. Discord jerks up his mouth a blazing. “Who had hot sauce?” Discord asks, he uses his paw to fan his mouth. “Whoops! I may have put one too many drops.” Pinkie chunks the bottle in the garbage.

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

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

“We thought we would have to get Tempest to zap you, but Twilight said otherwise.” Fluttershy said.

 “Speaking of Twilight, where is she?” Discord wonders. He saw the rest of Twilight's friends, but not her in general. 

“She’s in the throne room signing papers.” Pinkie Pie said. 

“Well how long has she been in there?” Discord asked. 

“Hmm well you were out cold for a while, and it's only 2 pm. So I would say ever since we left the hospital.” Pinkie beams. “Wait, why were we at a hospital?” Discord asks. 

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

***


Twilight sits in her  throne room, alone.  Her thoughts silently went a mile a minute, unable to stop. She sat there in comfortable silence as she hugged her stomach. As silent tears rolled down her face. 



*** 


Having enough thinking, Twilight gets up from her chair and begins paces back and forth in her library. Hyperventilating, she feels like she is on the edge of a mental breakdown. Her eyes almost filled with tears. As her stomach was filled with knots and anxiety. She felt like she was going to vomit, not from morning sickness, but from all the anxiety she felt. 

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

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

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

“Okay, well did you get any medicine for the flu?” Spike wonders. A grim, but nervous smile came upon Twilight's lips. “Actually, it wasn't the flu like we thought it was.” Twilight said. “Well if it isn't the flu, then what is it exactly.” Spike asks, his voice leaks with curiosity. Twilight bit her lip, unsure of how to say it. Just tell him, I'm sure he will not judge you. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

She felt a wave of calmness wash over her. 

Twilight sighes, until another thought crosses her mind. “What would Shining think?” Twilight asks, biting her lip. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discord gave her a playful smirk, but poofs the book that Twilight needed into existence. “Thanks.” Twilight held the book to her chest. “Hey, Twilight?” Discord asks.

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

“I actually came to ask you. Why were we at the hospital?” Discord questions. “What? You mean you don't remember?” Twilight looks at Discord and a look of bewilderment crosses her face. Discord stayed silent, a clear sign that he means no. 

“Well you did pass out. Remember when we thought it was the flu?” Twilight asks. “Yeah, what about it?” Discord wonders. “Well, turns out it wasn't the flu. I'm actually pregnant.” Twilight gave Discord a grim smile. 

“Wait, you're pregnant? But how? How in Equestria is that even possible! Who's the father?” It was now Discord’s turn to freak out now. Twilight smacks her hoof to her face. “You are.” Twilight said in a blunt tone. 

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

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

“So, what are we going to do?” Discord asks. “We are going to keep this private.” Said Twilight. “Private? Why?” Discord questions. 

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

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

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

Twilight giggled. “If I went missing, I am pretty sure they would have a pretty good idea of where I would be. Locked up in here doing another booksorcation.” 

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

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

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

Twilight nods her head, then shuts the door.


*** 


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 “Four.” Answers Twilight. 

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

“What is it Twilight?” Discord asks.

“Do you find it weird?” Twilight asks, getting up from her seat and throwing away the cupcake wraps. “Find what to be weird?” Discord wonders. 

“This! I mean we are having a child together and we aren't even married.” Twilight said. “Don't you find the situation a bit odd?” 

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

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

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

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

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

“I love you too.” Discord mutters. 

She walks into the hallway, shouting out “Goodnight.” Still sitting at the kitchen table, Discord hears the door shut before poofing the ring back into existence he pulls the ring out and gazes at it. “And I can't wait for that day to come.” 
> Chapter 4: A Sparkle Of Emotions
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


8 months later...


“So much for avoiding family…” Thought Twilight. 

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

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

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

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

 “Well, I'm glad you could make it to my birthday party!” Flurry said. Flashing her aunt a big toothy grin. She wraps her hoofs around her aunt's foreleg. 

Twilight ruffles her nieces mane. “You know I wouldn't miss this for all of Equestria!” 

“So, what are you doing over here instead of enjoying the rest of your party?” Twilight asks. 

“Besides coming to check on you. I was meaning to ask you a cutiemark question?” Flurry said, looking at her flank. She turned back to Twilight, looking with hopefully eyes. 

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

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

 “5 years?!” Flurry was shocked. “I...I can't wait 5 years of being an Alicorn blank flank!” Flurry's bottom lip quivers slightly.

“Relax sweetie! Not everyone has to wait that long for a  cutie mark, I was just giving you a slight example.” Twilight said, giving her a small smile. 

“Well I hope I don't have to wait that long. Anyways, thanks for the talk, Aunt Twilight.” Beams Flurry. 

“Your welcome sweetie, anytime.” Said Twilight. She watches from afar as her niece runs off to join the others.

 “We are so glad you could make it Twilight.” Cadence said, giving her sister-in-law a hug.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Hey! Princesses how is everything with- uh Twily is everything okay?” Shining said, walking over to the Princesses- well three out of four of them. Twilight groans out in agitation and frustration, her mane and tail blazing with fire.

 “I said I'm okay! Now would everypony get off my back!!!!” The only time when Twilight uses here Royal Canterlot voice was important events, but nothing like this. 

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

The party goers stopped and stared at the commotion that just happened. Which put Cadence and Luna in an awkward situation. 

“Please continue to enjoy this wonderful party, I just have to go use the little filly's room.” Cadence says giving the party goers an awkward smile. 

“Luna? Shining? Do you think you can keep the ponies here entertained until I get back?” Cadence asks.

 “Sure! Wait… when did we become party entertainers?” Shining asks.

 “Yeah, I never signed up for this- and she's gone.” Luna said. 

“Yep.” Mumbles Shining.


*** 


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

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

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

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

 It didn't. 

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

“Cross my heart. Hope to fly. Stick a cupcake in my eye.” Cadence chants. “Now can you tell me why you are acting like this?” Says Cadence. 

“I'm pregnant.” Twilight says.

 “I knew it.” Cadence says.

 “What! How?” Asks Twilight.

 “Well I was in the same boat as you are now in Twilight, before I had Flurry I was moody 24/7. I took out my hormones on practically everypony especially Shining.” Twilight thought back to when she took out her emotions. 

“I just took mine on Princess Celestia.” thought Twilight.

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

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

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

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

“But why?” Flurry stopped bouncing. 

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

“Sure mommy!” Says Flurry. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*** 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


***

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

Making her way to the door, the knocking continued. 

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

“Sh-Shining Armor! What are you doing here?” Twilight asks.

She could feel her whole body going tense.

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

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

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

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

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

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


***


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

No answer.

 “Discord!” Twilight hisses. 

Still no answer. 

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

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

“Who's the unwanted visitor? Need me to send them to another dimension?” Asked Discord. 

“What… no. It’s my brother. And he can not see you,” Twilight said. “Think you could disguise yourself?” 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Think you could make me some cupcakes? Preferably Pinkie Pie Cinnamon Cilantro cupcakes?” Twilight asks. 

Shining gave his sister a confusing look. “Cinnamon Cilantro Cupcakes? Twilight, those sound disgusting. Why would you even want those?” Shining said. Twilight's mind races for a moment, she lets out a nervous laugh. 

“You know what scratch that, you can just make me pancakes instead. With whip cream and sprinkles on top, drizzled in chocolate syrup.” 

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

“You have my word, Princess.” Said Discord. 

Twilight gave a soft smile, hoping that he keeps his word. Twilight walks out of the room. 


***


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

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

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

Another fifteen minutes passed.

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

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

 Twilight sneezed and electricity shot from her horn. Shining ducks, he rose slowly up. 
“Where did that come from?” Shining  asks.

 “I guess I have a Spring Fever, cold wise of course. If I was you I would leave this room while I still had the chance.” Twilight said, she tried to push him out of the room with her aura. 

Sadly, he wouldn’t budge.

 “Have you been to the doct-” Twilight cut off his response. 

“Yes, Shining I have and he said it was very contagious.” Lies Twilight. 

“How long have you had it?” Asked Shining. 

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

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

“But what about-” Her brother cuts her off. 

“Whatever needs to be taken care of I'll handle it for you.” Shining gave his Royal Guards honor to help his sister with whatever she needed for the day. “I just don't want you to push yourself more than you already have. You can just call me “Princess Shining Armor” for the day!” 

This earned a small laugh out of Twilight. 

“And besides, you look like you could use the rest. Promise me you'll rest for the day?” He gave a small smile. 

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

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

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

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


***


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

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

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

It was Shining Armor. 

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

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

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

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

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

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


***



Five hours later… 


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

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

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

Basically, her kitchen looked like a tornado hit it. 

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

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

“Did he put you under a spell?” Shining asks. “Wh- no! Now answer my question!” Twilight said in a very demanding voice. “How could you fall in love with somepony like him?” Shining asks, narrowing his eyes. “Do you know what he has done to you and your friends? Do you know all the horrible things his has done to Equestria in the past?” 

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

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

 “Discord! Can it!” Twilight snaps.

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

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

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

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

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

Shining Armor remained quiet. 

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

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

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

 Before drifting off to sleep once more. 
> Chapter 5: A Welcoming Visitor
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Thursday

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Whose side are you on?” Twilight asked. 

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

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

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

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

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

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


*** 


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

No answer. 

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

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

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

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


Twily, 


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



Xoxo, 


Shining Armor



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

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

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

It was Tempest, who was calling her. 

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

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

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

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

Twilight groans. “I've told that mare time and time again that magic is never the answer to solving your problems. But does she listen? No. Seems to me she will never learn that,” Twilight mutters the last bit to herself. 

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

“She's in the library, at least that's where I last saw her.” Tempest says. 

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

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

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

Twilight continues to walk on, but her guard keeps a close eye on her from behind. 


***


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

The lights to the library snap on. 

“Surprise!” Everypony shouts. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunset Shimmer. 

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

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

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

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

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

“Twilight-” the Princess started. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“She's from Manehatten!” Twilight interrupts. 

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

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

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

Sunset and Twilight walk towards the gift table. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both of them burst into a fit of laughter. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twilight giggles. “A few?” 

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

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

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

Shining went off to find his wife and daughter. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Ooh! Me next!” Pinkie beams. 

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

Twilight pulls out an oversized plush and soft teddy bear, it smelled strongly of Chocolate and a hint of bubble gum. Once Twilight didn't answer, Pinkie gave her the answer she was looking for. 

“It’s a giant teddy bear, Twilight. It’s soft enough to sleep on so it feels just like a cloud.” Pinkie says, beaming proudly at her gift. 

“Well thank you, Pinkie.” Twilight said, sitting the bear to the side. 

Twilight moved onto Rainbow's gift. The box was wrapped in a cyan blue wrapping paper, once Twilight held the present in her hoofs, whatever was inside was extremely light. 

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

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

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

“I was saving you time.” Rainbow says. 

Twilight giggles. 

 5 hours later


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

The party was starting to wind down, everypony was leaving and Twilight stayed with her friends and family members. “Thank you for throwing this shower for me Starlight.” Twilight said, thankful for her friend. 

“It’s no trouble Twilight, but I wouldn’t have had it all done if it wasn’t for Pinkie and the rest of our friends.” Starlight explains. 

“At least you have everything you need for when the baby arrives.” Sunset said, gestertering at the pile of gifts on the table-still some was wrapped. 

Twilight gave a light giggle. “We can’t wait to be grandparents for the third time.” Nightlight said. 

“Third time?” Twilight asks, slightly confused. 

“Oh! Cadence and Shining didn’t tell you dear?” Twilight Velvet asks. 

“Tell me what?” Twilight asked, now having her full attention directed to the Princess of Love. 

“Oh right! I kind of forgot to mention that you’re a aunt for the second time.” Cadence said, shuffling her hoof. 

“When did this happen?” Twilight questions a smirk held on her lips. 

“You know that’s besides the point.” Shining said, his face slightly red. 

“Well, why didn’t you bring them to the shower?” Twilight asks. 

Cadence gave an amusing smile. “I don’t think a party of this sorts is fit for a two year old.” Cadence explains. 

“Besides we left her in the care of Sunburst for this evening.” Shining said, agreeing with his wife. 

“Do you already have a name for the little one?” Fluttershy asks. 

“Of course it's-” Twilight stops mid sentence, pain hits her once again, this time a bit more sharper than the last. 

“Books.” Twilight said. Remembering her word for when it was time for the baby to come. However she didn’t expect them to be this early.  

“Twilight you have a millions of books here! The princess should have given you the title “Princess of Books.” Pinkie Pie said. 

“Twilight?” Celestia asks, her tone worried for her friend/former student. 

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

“Twilight, are you okay?” Fluttershy asks, concerned.

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

“Okay honey, just breath. “ Twilight Velvet, said helping her daughter control the pain she was feeling. 

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

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

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

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

“Well, I’m sorry it’s not my fault that the baby decided to come today.” Twilight said, her tone sarcastic, as she groans in pain. 

“Jeez she’s even moody when she is in pain.” Discord mutters loud enough for the others to hear. 

“Just get her to the hospital!” Pinkie said, her tone rather ansty. 

“Right, right.” Discord said, before he snapped his claws and the pair went off to the hospital. 

“So… uh do we just walk there?” Fluttershy questions anypony who was listening to her. 

Sunset looks over at the bags that Twilight had prepared, it's obvious that Discord forgotten
them. “You know he forgot the bags, right?” Sunset said her tone blunt as she points  a hoof over to the luggage, 

“Well what are we waiting for? Let's go!” Rainbow Dash said, speeding off.

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


**** 


Twilight was already in the back once the others had come. 

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


9 hours later


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

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

 Twilight's ear piercing scream fills the room. 

The others were startled when they heard her scream  “Twilight!” They said in unison. 

“What in Equestria are they doing to her?!” Pinkie Pie asked. 

Fluttershy paled a bit. “Way to go, sister.” Mutters Princess Luna. “You just worried them even more.” 

“Hey, I was only trying to give them words of encouragement.” Celestia says, her tone slightly defensive. 

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

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

“This “Waiting Game” is boring.” Pinkie said, her tone bored. 

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

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

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

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

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

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


***

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

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

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

“You did great.” Discord mutters, smiling at her. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“It's a filly.” Beams Twilight. 

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

“She's so precious!” Cooes Cadence. 

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

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

Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I heard that.” Twilight Velvet said, grinning at Cadence and Shining Armor.

Twilight Velvet looks at her granddaughter. “Oh Twilight! She’s beautiful.” 

Nightlight walks over beside his wife looking at his granddaughter. “She even has your mane colors Twily.” 

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

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

“Besides they named you Flurry Heart to remember the occasion.” Nightlight said, chuckling. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

A choir of “Shh!”  

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

Before Twilight could interject. Rarity interrupts. 

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

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

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

“Sure.” Says Twilight. 

Flurry Heart gets up besides Twilight, as Twilight hoofs over the baby draconequus to her neice. 

Flurry smiles down at the small infant then looks at her aunt. “She's so tiny.” Flurry Heart says, smiling down at her baby cousin. “Hi! I'm your cousin Flurry Heart. And I promise to always love you.” She blows a tiny kiss to the little infant. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The tiny draconequus looks up at Discord, blinking.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


*** 


2 months later…. 


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

“How do you manage to lose a 2 month old baby?” Twilight wonders, she looks up from her book. 

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

“What happened this time?” Twilight wonders. 

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

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

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

No answer. 

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

Again no answer.

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

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

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

“Where did you find her?” Asks Twilight. 

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

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

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

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

They both walked back into the library to find Discord, but he was nowhere in sight. “That's strange. First you, now your Daddy. What is it with my family disappearing on me today?
> Chapter 6: If Only
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Will you marry me?” 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


*

Applejack kicks in the door to the house.

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

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

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

Discord clumsiness caused him to almost drop the ring. 

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

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

“I am, but listen-” Discord pleads. 

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

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

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

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

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

Granny Smith and Discord both looked at each other laughing. 

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

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

“For what exactly?” Applebloom wonders. 

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

Applebloom felt her cheeks heat with embarrassment. 

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

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

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

“Anytime, Discord.” Granny Smith says. 

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

Applejack drops to the floor with a hard thud. 

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


*** 

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

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

“Twilight?” Discord, approaches her with caution. 

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

“Where is Harmonia, anyways.” Discord questions. 

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

“Perfect! Now come on.” Discord said. 

“Whatever it is, I don't feel like going anywhere tonight.” Twilight’s voice was bitter. 

She was about to walk off, but Discord wrapped her around with his tail. “Look Twilight, I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you today. But I promise I will always be here for you from now on. Just believe me when I say this: follow me.” 

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

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

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

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

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

“Winsome Falls of course.” Discord says. 

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

 This was his chance. 

“Twilight?” Discord asks. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A ring. 

Not just any ring, an engagement ring. 

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

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

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

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

“Well…” Discord wonders.

Tears poured down her face, she gave him the biggest grin on her face. 

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

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

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


***


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

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

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

Twilight giggles. “At Winsome Falls.” 

“That’s the most beautiful spot that I know of. It’s where we took Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo for our Annual Sister Campout a few years back.” Applejack said.  

 “Well if you girls loved Winsome Falls during the day, just think of what it would look like when the afternoon rays hit the waterfall. It is simply breathtaking.” Twilight had a starstruck look on her face. 

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

“Suppose it was June 10th so…. 7 months from now.” Twilight thinks out loud. 


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

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

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

“ I can make sure the weather is cleared for your big day and I'm sure Fluttershy can handle the music.” Rainbow Dash said. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


***


May 1st

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


***

June 10th 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Thank you, Princess.” Applejack said. 

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

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

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

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


***

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

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

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

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

However, Twilight was pacing back and forth clearly nervous. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starlight nodded and walked out to join the others. 

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

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

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


***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


***

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

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

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

“May I have this dance?” Ask Discord. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Celestia stays silent for a moment. 

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

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

“Sister? Is something wrong?” Luna asks. 

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

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

"I just need some time to think, okay?" Celestia said, with that she walks out of the reception area to get some much needed fresh air.
> Chapter 7: Birthdays & School Of Magic Days
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 5 years later… 

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

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

“Mommy! Daddy!” Harmonia squeals excitedly. 

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

“Mommy! Daddy!” She squeals once again. 

Again no answer. 

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

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

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

Harmonia was still trying to get her parents attention. “Come on, daddy!” Harmonia said, pawing at Discord’s face.

 Once Discord didn't answer, Harmonia used her claw and pricked Discord's fur. Discord jumps, sending Harmonia flying across the room. Luckily, she managed to land on something soft with a thud. However, Discord turned back over throwing the blanket over himself. 

Harmonia growls this time, racing back to the bed. She stops and jumps up. “Since you won't wake up maybe a cold shower will do the trick.” Harmonia thought. 

She snaps her claw and and a mediocre sized rain cloud appears over Discord's head, the rain pours and startles Discord fully awake.

“You promised!” She huffs, she was now giving Discord a rather unpleasant look. 

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

The glow of Celestia’s sun reflected off of Twilight’s castle. It has been a long 5 years since Princess Twilight’s and Discord’s wedding. Twilight gave a soft groan and gave a small smile to her now 5 year old daughter.

 “Hello there sweetheart. Happy Birthday.” Twilight said, tickling Harmonia. Harmonia giggled, pawing at her dad, and she frowned once he did not respond to Harmonia's reaction. Discord apparently fell back asleep. Twilight rolled her eyes. She places Harmonia on her side of the bed, before proceeding to kick Discord from underneath the blankets.   

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

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

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

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

“Hey who says you can’t be early with preparations?” Twilight asked. She grabbed her daughter and Discord with her magic and settled them both on the ground gently but firmly. Twilight paced back and forth, across the room, taking short, quick breaths. Discord snapped his claw and placed Twilight in a bubble. 

“Dear, you are taking this a bit too far. How about you get everything sorted for Harmonia’s birthday while I take care of her?” Discord asked. 

Twilight growled quietly as she was placed on the ground, out of the bubble. Twilight looked at their daughter who had turned her pillow into pink cotton candy and began nomming on it. Twilight used the technique that Cadence taught her all those years ago and looked at Discord with calming eyes. 

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

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

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

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

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

Harmonia scrunched her muzzle. “Why not something, terrifying?” A sly, but overall adorable smile appeared on her face.

 “Well for somepony- er creature- your size I just want to take it easy on you. This is your first time after all.” Discord said, showing concern for his daughter. 

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

Discord let out a chuckle, his eyes showing mischief. “Alright! Fine. Think you could transform into a… Ursa Minor?” A sly smile played on his mouth. 

“Please that is too easy.”  Harmonia says she uses her lion's paw and snaps her padded fingers. 

Out of a puff of raspberry magenta smoke, came a baby Ursa Minor. Discord looked at his daughter with adoring eyes. “Awe, Harmony you look adorable!” Discord squeals. 

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

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

 “How about I fix you a Birthday breakfast? I know you must be hungry.” Discord said. Harmonia expression changes from disappointment to excitement.

 “Can I have dessert for breakfast just this once daddy, please?” Harmonia looks at her dad with big round baby doll eyes. 

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

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


***

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

“How does this look?” Twilight asks no one in particular.

 Pinkie Pie, who was placing Harmonia's cake on the table zooms over to Twilight's side. She had two hooves in front of her, narrowed. “A little to the left.” she said. 

 Twilight places the banner in the direction that Pinkie said. “Now just a bit lower. No wait, that's too low. A little bit higher. Just maybe two centimeters over. Now-” Pinkie directed. 

“Ugh! Pinkie your directions are making no sense. Here let me get this for you Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said, zooming upwards to the banner she places the banner in the correct way that Twilight needed it to be. 

Pinkie Pie uses her hoofs once again to make sure it was aligned correctly.

 “Perfect!” She says her tone in a singing voice, before bouncing back to finish her task. 

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

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

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

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

“She will definitely be surprised to know that you’re here.” Twilight said, smiling.

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

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

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

“But why would you want to move-” Pinkie Pie stopped and noticed the chemistry between Applejack and the former pop star. 

“Oooohhh!” A smug smile played on Pinkie’s lips. Applejack blushes slightly before changing the subject. 

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

Twilight unrolls her checklist. “Let's see…. Cake?” 

“Check.” Says Pinkie Pie. 

“Decorations?” She questions. 

“Check, darling.” Rarity announces. 

“Catering and food?” Questions Twilight. 

“Check.” Announce Applejack. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twilight looked at her friend in utter confusion for a moment, before realizing what she said was right- I mean besides the plot hole part. “Pinkie your a genius!” Twilight said.

 “Eh, it's what I do.” She shrugs off the comment like it was nothing. 

Twilight vanishes the invitations in a snap. Five minutes later, ponies came just in time. Twilight breathed a sigh of relief and not a moment too soon. Harmonia and Discord, both appear in a flash of white light. 

“Sorry, if we are 'fashionably late’ as Rarity would say.” Discord said.

 “Discord, darling. I gave up that saying three years ago.” Rarity giggles. 

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

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

“Come on! There's somepony I would like you to meet.” Flurry said, her voice full of excitement. 

She pulls her cousin by her Ursa Minors paw, telling her to come on. Harmonia giggles. “I'm coming, I'm coming.” she says. Harmonia follows Flurry to the appearance of a snowy white unicorn. 

The unicorn had a wavy snow white mane with light blue and bubblegum pink highlighted streaks, she looked slightly similar to her mother, but she had blue eyes like her father. She had an appearance that was overall sweet, but there was something rather intimidating about her overall appearance Harmonia just could not put her hoof on it.   

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

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

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

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

“It's nice to meet you.” Mumbles Harmonia.

 “Charmed.” Crystal said. Flurry and Harmonia looked at each other, before all three of them fell into complete silence listening to the music.

 “If you're hungry we have cake.” Harmonia said. 

This situation was more awkward than Flurry had anticipated.

 “Yes, well if it’s not made of fondue, then I don’t want any.” She said, her tone sounded slightly harsh. 
  
 Harmonia shrank back a little, kindly hurt by this young mare's words. Flurry furrows her brows a little, disappointed by her sister’s rather rude behavior. “Does this shindig have a powder room?” Crystal asks, her muzzle scrunching slightly at the barnyard smell. 

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

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

With that she saturs off to find the restroom- or in her case the “powder room”. Once her sister was out of earshot, Flurry looked at her cousin.

 “I’m so sorry about Crystal’s behavior, Harmonia if I knew she was going to act like this. I would have asked Mom and Dad to let her stay at home.” she says. Harmonia gave her a small smile. “It’s okay, really.” she mutters. Flurry shook her head. 

“No it isn’t, she had no right to act to you like that. I’ll tell mom and dad since she won’t listen to me and get this all straightened out.” Flurry began to walk away, but Harmonia stops her. 

“Flur, please don’t.” Harmonia pleads. Flurry gave her a confused look.

 “Harmonia, I have to. What she is doing is basically bullying you just because you are different.” Flurry explains. Harmonia turns and looks at Crystal who is surrounded by a group of fillies and colts, who looked slightly older than her. 

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

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

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

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

“How are you enjoying the party, sweetie?” Twilight asks her daughter. Harmonia smiles giddy at her mom. “

“It's great, mommy. You guys really outdone yourselves.” Twilight wraps a wing around her daughter and pulls her into a hug. 

Twilight noticed her daughter’s expression. “Sweetie is everything okay?” 

“Of course! Why wouldn’t it be?” Harmonia asked. 

“Call it a mother’s intuition when they know something is bothering their child. Now tell me what’s wrong? I'm always here to listen to you.” Twilight said, smiling at her daughter. 

“It’s just that…” Harmonia sighs. “It’s nothing, really.” She said, plastering a small smile. 

Twilight archers her eyebrow. “Are you sure?” She asked. 

“Positive.” She said, smiling. 

 Twilight sighs. “Fine I’ll believe you, just because I don’t want to ruin your day, but we will have this discussion later. However,  I'm glad to know that you are enjoying it! In fact, we have one more surprise for you.” Twilight looks down, smiling at her daughter. 

“What is it?” Harmonia asks, her voice full of excitement.

 “You would have to wait just a bit longer.” Twilight teases. “Right now, we have to serve your cake and you have presents to open.” She explains. 

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

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


***


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

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

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

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

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

 “Thank you.” Harmonia said, hugging the bear with her paw. 

“Your welcome, sweetie.” Cadence says. 

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

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

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

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

“No.” Teases Twilight. 

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

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

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

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

As if on cue, the tiny stage curtains lifted and from it appeared Rara. 

“Just Rara is fine Twilight.” Rara smiles. “And I heard that today was a special day for a special little filly.” 

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

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

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


***


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Am I really bad?” Harmonia thought. 


***

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

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

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

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

Harmonia giggles. 

“Hey! I happen to be the best storyteller, next to Pinkie Pie of course.” Discord brags. 
  
The little draconequus thought to herself for a moment before speaking up. Discord was still muffled with laughter. “Um Mommy? Daddy? Can I ask you something?” Harmonia asks, her voice sounded distressed, worried even. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Harmonia thinks for a moment before speaking. “Mommy, am I really bad?” She wonders. 

“What do you mean, sweetheart?” She wonders. “Don't play it off like you did not just see what happened today.” Harmonia said, her tone sounding bitter. 

“I know what I saw, and you are not bad. You just let your anger get the best of you.” Twilight soothes. 

“Why did you get angry anyways, Harmonia?” Discord wonders. 

“Because, Crystal was making fun of me!” Huffs Harmonia. “Isn't Crystal that snobby pony that everyone hates, yet let alone fear her just because she has a secret or two held over somepony?” Discord wonders. 

Harmonia nods. “Sounds like a mini Diamond Tiara and Sunset Shimmer to me.” He mutters. 

“She said I should be a Unicorn instead just so I could be accepted into Celestia's school, mommy.” Harmonia said. 

Discord was now pissed, his eyes glowed red. “What!” His voice sounded dangerous. “You should have just finished her then.” He said.

“Discord!” Twilight snaps. “What? Heck, that brat deserves what should have been coming to her.” Huffs Discord. 

Twilight rolls her eyes. “Just remember to try and control your emotions and you will be just fine.” Twilight kisses the top of Harmonia's head.

“Goodnight, princess.” She said. 

“Night.” Harmonia replies back. Twilight and Discord shuts the door to her room. Harmonia tosses and turns for the next thirteen minutes in her bed. “School for Unicorns.” Repeated into her head for the next three hours before finally falling asleep. 


***


Twilight slept soundly, Discord on the other hoof did not. That annoying bird was still here in the castle, after his failed attempt to catch it the first dozen times failed. He decided to come up with another plan while both the girls were asleep. 

Discord snaps his claw and transforms into Twilight herself. “This will be too easy.” He thought. 

He carefully goes out of the room, and teleports into the library where Owlicious was held. He carefully opened his cage. “Come on Owlicious, time to come with me to the Everfree Forest. Feeling like doing some late night researching?” Twilight said. 

The bird, happily obliged and joined “Twilight” in a company her to the Everfree Forest. 


*** 


Later that same night, Harmonia trotted into Twilight and Discord's room, unable to go to sleep. She normally didn't go to sleep for awhile because of the amounts of sugar she had eaten secretly before bed or just because of the amount of energy she had, but this time was different. She couldn't sleep because she was…well nervous.

"Mom?" She asked timidly while knocking on the door. She slowly opened it and walked up to her mother's side of the bed. She gently shook her. "Mom?"

Twilight stirred, blinked her eyes a few times and she looked at Harmonia. She smiled tiredly and said, "Hey Fuzzball," Her voice was tired but still friendly and sweet, "What's the matter? Did you have another Nightmare?"

"No…" Harmonia said, sounding ashamed. "I just…can't sleep."

Twilight shifted and sat up a bit. "Do you want to tell me why?"

"I'm nervous for tomorrow…" Harmonia admitted, snuggling up to Twilight, "I mean…what if I'm not good enough? What if I mess up? What if I fail?! Like…undoubtedly, undeniably fail?!"

"Shh…" Twilight said, lightly patting Harmonia's head, and pulling her close. "It's okay…trust me, you're getting yourself worked up. It won't be as bad as you think."

"How can you know?" Harmonia asked quietly.

"Because I felt just like you when I took my test." Twilight said.

Harmonia looked up, her eyes watery and wide in surprise. "Really?"

Twilight giggled a little. "Oh, yes definitely. I was so nervous, and I thought I failed, but then Rainbow did her Sonic Rainboom and-"

"Wait, what?" Harmonia asked, confused.

Twilight shook her head. "I'll tell you later…anyways, the point is that it wasn't as bad as I thought it was. And I'm sure you'll do amazing."

Harmonia smiled. "Thanks mom."

Twilight slipped out of her bed. "Now come on, let's go back to sleep."


***



Harmonia looks at her appearance long and hard in the oblong mirror that was hanging on the back of her bedroom door. “I just hope ponies will accept me for me.” Harmonia  thought. 

“Honey, breakfast is ready!” Discord calls from downstairs. 

“Coming!” She shouts back. Harmony gives one last look at her appearance, as she quickly fix a loose strand of her white mane, before gathering her belongs.She straps her saddlebag on her back, and is now making her way towards the kitchen. 

The whole castle wavered in the aroma scent of pancakes. “Mhm something smells good, mommy.” Harmonia said, before making her way to the table. Twilight looks up from the book she was reading.

 “Your father is just making pancakes is all.” Twilight said, before going back to her book. Harmonia looks at the book title: Dancing With The Shadows. “Dancing With The Shadows? What is it about, mommy?” She asks, gazing at the title. 

“Well, I haven't read much of it, and I'm only on Chapter 4, but so far it's really good!” Twilight said. She bookmarked the page she was reading, placing the book down beside her. She notices her daughter's worried expression. 

Discord noticed his daughter's expression was rather sullen and worrisome this morning. 

“Fuzzball, what’s wrong?” Discord asks. 

“Daddy? Where is Owl-wishes? I went to go check on him this morning, but he wasn’t there. But his cage was wide open.” Harmonia explains. 

He will never understand why his own daughter loved that bird. 

“My guess is that Owlicious found his other bird friends in the Everfree Forest.” Discord said, fibbing a bit. 

However, Twilight wasn’t buying his story, her eyebrows raised.

“You know what then again, owls do love mice so maybe he found a mouse, chased it out of the castle and then he possibly found true love.” Discord said, as he second guessed himself. 

Twilight, on the other hand, wasn’t buying it. Discord looked over to his wife. “What? He could have! You never know about those nocturnal creatures.” Discord explains. 

Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, can you go see if your Aunt Starlight can take you to school?” she asks her daughter sweetily. 

“Sure mommy.” Harmonia beams, and hurries off. 

Twilight turns back to Discord, her expression unamusing, with her book in hoof, she rams it across his head. I’m sure the smack could be heard from all throughout the castle. 

Discord rubs his head. “What was that for?!” He asks. 

“You know perfectly well what that was for!” Twilight said. “One for lying and two for getting rid of Owlicious.” 

“How do you know it was me?” Discord questions, his tone innocent. 

“Tempest.” Twilight explains. 

Discord rolled his eyes. “Dang it! I forgot about the berry horse being Twilight’s guard.” He thought. 

“Well that’s what the bird gets for trying to have an owl duel a few years back.” Discord huffs. 

Twilight looks at her husband, slightly confused. “Wait… what?” she asks. 

Discord sighes. “It’s a long story.” He mutters. 

Twilight, who was clearly unamused, looked at her husband with a deadpan expression. “This is why we can’t have nice things, Discord.” she said, before walking off to find Harmonia.

“To be fair that owl wasn’t even nice in the first place.” Discord said, calling after her. 


*** 


“Aunt Starlight is impossible to wake up and she snores so loud, I thought Uncle Spike might have came over last night while we were asleep.” Harmonia explains. 

Twilight lightly giggles at her daughter’s statement. “Are you ready for your first day of Magic Kindergarten?” Twilight asks. 

“I’m ready! I got my quills, scrolls, extra quills and scrolls and a healthy lunch packed!” Harmonia said proudly. Twilight giggles.

 “You sound more prepared then I was when I first started at Celestia’s school.” Twilight said. 

“Well, our daughter learns from the best.” Discord chuckled as he snapped his fingers to make a plate appear with fresh, golden pancakes. “Enjoy!” He beams. Harmonia was famished at the sight of the fluffy golden pancakes. She teleported herself to the table and nommed on the pancake, enjoying every bite of it. Twilight smiled as she continued to read her book. Discord floated beside Harmonia. 

“So, I heard that your snobby, little cousin Crystal will be joining you at Magic Kindergarten! But don’t worry about her! You are going to make your daddy proud and make lots of new friends!” Said Discord, trying to boost their daughters confidence. 
 
 “You do know Crystal is 7. So she is going to be in a grade or so higher than Harmonia…..” Twilight corrected Discord. 

“True! True! But other ponies can bully ponies that are smaller and weaker so make sure that you turn them into ducks!” Discord laughed. 

“Do you really want her to get into trouble with Celestia on the first day?” Twilight asks. 

“Of course not! I’m just saying that she needs to stick up for herself when the time comes! If she does get into trouble, I will have a long talk with Princess Kay-Kay” Discord snapped his fingers and he made himself look like Celestia. 

“I’m Princess Celestia and I sent my sister away to the moon for a thousand years! I am such a busy pony! So much royal duties! Yet, I get Twilight to do all my dirty work. Isn’t that right, Princess?” Discord said in a high-pitched voice. 

“I'm starting to question why I even married you in the first place.” Twilight mumbles, but rolls her eyes playfully at her husband. 

“So, you got your healthy lunch Harmonia?” Discord smirked at his daughter. Harmonia giggles at what her father meant. 

Twilight gives a suspense look between her daughter and husband. “What are you two up to?” Twilight tone, sounded playful but also suspicious.

Discord circles around Twilight, wrapping her in his snake tail. He chuckles playfully. 

“Oh Twilight! Whatever do you mean? Can’t me and my daughter have some fun together?” Discord smirked at his wife. Twilight rolled her eyes playfully. 

“Of course, it's just-” Twilight looks over at the kitchen’s clock. It read 7:15 am, Celestia’s school opened promptly at 7:30.  

“Okay Harmonia. Time to finish up breakfast and we all need to head off to Celestia’s school.” Twilight said with a bit of panic in her voice. Harmonia notices this and gulps down her breakfast. She grabbed her saddlebag and waited for her parents to get ready. 


***


Celestia stands outside of her school, the School of Magic for today was the first day of a new semester. 

As new students, some under the ages less than 10, pass by Celestia she greets each of them with a warm formality. 

“It’s so nice to have you here!” 

“Welcome!” 

“I know we will have a fantastic school year together!” Celestia beams. 


***


Twilight,Discord and Harmonia awaited til it was Harmonia's turn to go into the school. 

“Mommy! Do I have to go here?”  Harmonia complains, she knew that she was different than everypony else here so why did it matter that she went here or not? 

“Sweetie, this is the exact same school that I went to when I was around your age. And Celestia is a fantastic teacher, I think you’ll learn a lot being here. Maybe even make a few new friends.” Twilight said. 

“But why are they all unicorns?” Harmonia asked. 

“You can’t just ask somepony why they are all unicorns.” Discord said, slightly chuckling. 

Harmonia rolls her eyes. “Okay let me rephrase that. Why is nopony here different from me?” Harmonia asked. 

“You my dear, are special. You’re mother and I both see potential in you. Why do you think your mother sent you to this school?” Discord asked. 

“To show off?” Harmonia questions. 

“Yeah-Wait no! Trust me no one here likes a show-off.” Discord mutters the last bit to himself. 

“But having magic makes you a part of who you are. Mommy said that.” Harmonia said. 

“Yes but I also enrolled you into this school because I want you to make friends but also show that being different is okay.” Twilight said, softly smiling at her. 

Harmonia smiles back. “.... okay.” 

Her eyes widened as she saw Princess Celestia walking toward her. Princess Celestia smiled but slightly frowned once she saw Twilight and Discord. Princess Celestia slightly shook her head, brushing off her rather cold shoulder. She looks down at Harmonia. 

“Hello Harmonia, are you ready for your first day?” Harmonia slowly nodded, showing the princess that she was excited but also a bit nervous. 

“Wait… how do you already know my name?” Harmonia asked, slightly confused. 

Celestia softly giggled. “Your Mother also went to this school when she was a filly! She was one of my top students in my class.” She said, giving a warm smile to Twilight.

Twilight smiles back. She tried not to let her emotions get the best of her today, but Discord however, he was a lost cause already shedding a few tears. 

“Are you crying?” Twilight smirks, playfully. 

“N-no, it's called Liquid Pride. T-totally different thing.” Discord says, between sniffles as he wipes away a tear. 

Celestia lightly giggled at Discord’s comment, but also thought it was sweet that he cared for his daughter. “Well, I am happy to tell you that you are in good hooves and I am excited to have you here at my school.” She said, giving Twilight a happy glance. 

Harmonia hugs her mother and father. Princess Celestia watches sadly as she wishes that she had a family like that. She shakes it off the feeling and taps Harmonia's shoulder. 

“It’s time to go, Harmonia.” Celestia turns around and begins to walk away, motioning her to follow her to her classroom. 


***


The inside of the school looked a lot smaller from the outside than it does on the inside. The pair pass through an arch way of the school and enter another hallway. 

 Harmonia carefully followed the princess. A million thoughts running through her small chaotic mind. Princess Celestia stops. “Are you okay, Harmonia?” She asks, her tone calm and caring. 

“O-of course. Just a bit nervous is all.” Harmonia said. “Well you have nothing to worry about here everypony is rather friendly.” Celestia said, her tone assuring. 

“Yeah, I’m probably worried about nothing,” Harmonia thought to herself as Princess Celestia opened the classroom door. 

“Yeah, I’m probably worried about nothing,” Harmonia thought to herself. 

“And don’t worry, the Entrance exam isn’t as scary as everypony makes it out to be.” Celestia explains. 

Harmonia stops dead in her tracks. “The Entrance- what now?” She asked. 

“The Entrance exam, everypony who’s new to the school has to take one.” Celestia explains. 

“Did your mother not tell you?” Celestia asked, concerned. 

“Somewhat…” Harmonia said, her tone bashful. 

Celestia lightly giggled. “Well I’m sure you’ll do just fine. Besides all parents are there to moral support their children.” She said, giving her a light smile. 

The pair walked down the hallway, by passing all the rooms held students who were learning something new. 

“Are there not any teachers here? Like mom has at her school.” Harmonia asked while making small talk with Celestia. 

Celestia giggles. “As much as I want to say no this school is accredited to the EEA guidelines. So basically I’m the only one running the School of Magic. Aside from the professors who are the oversee who gets into my school. ” Celestia explains. 

“But I thought you-” Harmonica states, but Celestia cuts her off. 

“Yes, I may be a Princess, but even a Princess can’t do everything that she likes.” Celestia explains. 

This left Harmonia silent for a moment, before Celestia and her stop in front of a door. 

“Here we are! I wish you good luck.” Celestia said. 

Harmonia looks at the double doors, slightly shaking as she lets out a shaky breath. “.... I can do this.” Harmonia thought to herself. 

She opens the double doors that contain her fate. 
*** 
Harmonia waited for her turn as she stood fiddling with her paws as she stood outside the testing room. She didn’t know why she was so nervous. She knew her magic was fine but...what if she did something wrong? What if she somehow messed up? What if they didn’t allow her in because she wasn’t a unicorn? Could they do that?? Could they kick her out if she wasn’t a unicorn?? What if--

“Hey, Fuzzball, you okay?” Twilight asked, stroking her daughter’s mane gently. “You’re shaking a lot.”

"Okay?" She said, obviously very nervous, "Of course I'm okay! I mean…why wouldn't I be??"

Twilight giggled slightly. "Oh Harmonia…you have no reason to be nervous! You'll do amazing! You'll do a lot better than you think you did."

Harmonia nodded, but it still didn't help her nerves. "I'm going to go sit in the waiting room."
Before Twilight could protest, Harmonia ran off into the waiting room. She sighed in relief.


***


“Okay, okay, okay,” Harmonia thought, “What can I do to get myself calm? Uh…chocolate milk! I like chocolate milk! Maybe that will-” 

"Hey are you okay?" Somepony asked.

She looked up and saw two unicorns looking at her. She smiled slightly. 

"Oh hey!" Harmonia said, a little relieved. "What are you two doing here?”

"Well…it is test day." Said the first unicorn. “"I ran into him after my test."

"I told her to stay until after." The other explained.

"How'd you all do?" Harmonia said, walking over to sit by the two, they seemed rather friendly.

The first shrugged. "I don't know, honestly. I thought I did terrible but my parents seemed to think otherwise."

"I did alright." The other said. "They seemed impressed but who knows."

“Hopefully they won’t be too tough to impress.” Harmonia  mutters. 

"Harmonia?"

Harmonia  and the other two all turned and looked at Twilight who was standing in the door.

"Oh, there you are!" Twilight said. "Come on! It's time for your test!"

Harmonia got up, really nervous. The two noticed this, but wished her Good luck!” Harmonia smiled at the two. "Thank you!” 


***


Harmonia stood in front of 4 judges in a small lecture hall. Twilight, Discord and the other two students were  waiting- Jewel, and Cotton Berry all stood to the side and smiled from the sidelines.

"Are you…Harmonia Sparkle?" One of the judges asked, looking at her clipboard.

"Yeah, I am." Harmonia said, not too timidly but it was still obvious she was nervous.

She looked once again at Harmonia, then said, "Harmonia Sparkle you will have 5 minutes to impress us with your magic. Your time starts-"

"Hold on." A unicorn on the far right said. "You can't possibly expect somepony with no horn to pass this test! I mean…look at her! She doesn't even have a horn!"

Discord looked like he was ready to kill the unicorn while Twilight held him back. Jewel and Cotton looked away, knowing that this unicorn talked bad about them too. The other unicorns didn't look annoyed. They listened, as if they wanted to hear what she had to say.

"Puny magic tricks and sleight-of-hoof aren't real magic!" She said, "Besides, that's probably all she's capable of!"

"Now, hold on Poison." The unicorn who had originally asked if that was Harmonia. "While she may not be a unicorn, we allow the tests of all sorts of creatures. Whether or not they pass is a different thing."

"Hold on! That doesn't seem fair!" Jewel said. "That girl has magic! She just doesn't-"

"Silence!" The unicorn named Poison said. "Why did we let those other two in here?! They've already taken the test and might have given Harmonia information on the test! They shouldn't be here! Especially since their performances were astronomically under-average!"

Harmonia, who had been sitting there taking in everything they had said, finally snapped. 

Without even realizing what she was doing, she had teleported over to Poison. She floated just inches away from her. 

"What…did you just say?" Her voice was dark and low.

Poison didn't seem intimidated. "You heard what I said, creature. You don't scare me and you'll never be a real unicorn."

Then, she snapped. “QUIET!” she screams. 

In a huge yell of anger, Harmonia had released all the emotion-driven magic within her in one foul swoop. The magic pushed Poison back, plowing her through all the chairs behind him before he hit a wall. The other 3 judges were pushed to the side and all of their horns had disappeared off of their heads. They shrieked in horror. The magic reached Discord, Twilight, Jewel and Cotton Berry. Her magic had turned Discord into a plush toy, it had turned Twilight into a baby again, it turned Jewel into a beautiful purple Jewel and Cotton Berry into a large Blueberry bush.

Poison looked up right as Harmonia grabbed Hera by the neck with her eagle claw and lifted her off the ground.

"I may not be a unicorn." She said as she looked up at him. Her pupils were tiny, insane-like. She smiled like a maniac.

I'm making Daddy proud, she thought deviously.

"But I can still do stuff you would wish were only in your nightmares." She snapped her paw and in an instant, Poison was trapped within her own mind, unable to escape, forced to live through his worst fears.

She turned around and looked at the scene. The judges were still freaking out, one had even passed out. The Discord plush was now being played with by the baby Twilight, who spun it around in the air like an airplane. The Jewel and Blueberry bush were still in the same place, untouched.

Harmonia felt strangely powerful. Oh if only Crystal was here. She would finally be able to show her just how powerful she was. She felt…good. 

No…great.

She laughed because she felt in control for the first time in her life. She rose slightly off the ground.

"Who this much Chaos would be so much…" Harmonia said, "...fun~"

Little did Harmonia know, but a certain Princess had seen the light show that was currently going on from inside the room.

As Harmonia continued her Chaos, changing things to make it more towards her liking and even making herself a celebratory glass of chocolate milk, Princess Celestia walked in.
At first, she was surprised to see what Harmonia had done, but that quickly went away when Harmonia saw the Princess.

“Princess Celestia?” She asked, confused.

And almost as soon as the chaos had come, it went away. The judges got their horns back and they were relieved. Twilight and Discord were back to their normal selves, though Twilight had been playing with the plush Discord so Discord was currently flying in the air because of Twilight’s magic. They looked at each other confused, before Twilight lightly set her husband down. Cotton Berry and Jewel returned to normal, although Cotton Berry stood there beyond confused and Jewel made sure she was her normal self again before lightly collapsing on the floor in relief. Poison had gotten out of her trance but he still stood very still and was breathing heavily in fear. Mostly in fear of having to go back in.

“Harmonia…” Celestia said, absolutely amazed.

“I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.” Harmonia said, as tears welled in her eyes. 

“I didn’t mean to break the classroom.” Harmonia wimpers. 

“I’ll tell you what if you break something I can fix it.” Celestia said. 

“Huh?” Harmonia questions. 

“This school is for young ponies like you, Harmonia, who are still learning new things and are needing help controlling their powers such as yourself. You can start today if you’d like.” Celestia said, smiling at her. 

“What?!” One of the professors said, in disbelief. 

“But, she’s a draconequus.” Stated another.  

“She literally turned this entire room into… chaos! You can not have a student like that in your classroom.” Stated the second one. 

“And?” Celestia said, raising an eyebrow. 

The professors said nothing. “If all is in order I’ll--” Celestia said, but Harmonia cuts her off.  

“But their opinions are right, Princess. I don’t belong here at all.” Harmonia said, her ears downfolded. 

“Nonsense, Harmonia I knew you had a magical ability, but…” Celestia said, still trying to process it all, “I didn’t know it was this powerful-”

“Please, please, please don’t kick me out!” Harmonia pleaded. “I know I may have gone overboard, but I promise that it was only a one time thing!”

Celestia looked down at the scared and sad Harmonia confused, but then she giggled slightly.
“Oh, Harmonia,” Celestia said, gently patting Harmonia on the head, “Why would I kick out someone with so much potential?”

“Huh?” Harmonia asked.

“What I’m saying Harmonia is that I would like you to join my School of Magic.” Celestia said. She looked toward Twilight and Discord. Twilight was smiling brightly and Discord gave her a thumbs-up. 

Harmonia looked back at Celestia and smiled. “Heck yes!”


***


“This will be your classroom. I hope you enjoy your time here. I will be in a few to start with today’s lesson.” Celestia said, calmly. Harmonia nodded happily as she watched Celestia walk away to gather her learning materials. 

Harmonia took a deep breath and walked into her new classroom, prepared to face anything. 

A unicorn colt with a pink curly mane and a periwinkle light blue coat, gazes at Harmonia with his blue eyes. An unexpected look on his face. “Uh? Can I help you?” Harmonia asks, her look unassured. 

The colt said nothing and left, quickly might I add. “Well that was unexpected.” Harmonia mutters to herself. The whole class stops and stares at the tiny draconequus, whispering. “Oh come on!” Harmonia huffs. 

She walks back to the back of the classroom and sits down at her table. 

She gazes down. “Why did mother have to send me here? Why couldn’t I have gone to her school instead.” She thought. 

“Hello, is this seat taken?” Came a light British mixed with French accent asked. The voice belonged to a unicorn with a snow white coat, lavender eyes and with a little blue and pink slightly curled mane. Her cutie mark was a rose but it was made out of crystal. 

Harmonia looks up at the unicorn with confusion. “Are you sure you want to sit with me? Everypony else seems to think otherwise.” Harmonia mutters while looking at the few fillies and colts who stare at her either out of fear, curiousity or disgust. 

“I don’t mind, really! I’m Jewel! Jewel Bliss! So you're the new pony- er….” Jewel stopped and tried to figure out what Harmonia really was. 

“Draconequus.” Harmonia corrected. 

“.... okay, draconequus around here.” Jewel said. 

Harmonia scoffs. “That obvious huh?” She mutters. 

Jewel sits down beside her. “Kind of, Yeah.” She said, giving her a light smile.

“I’m a Year 2 student here, this is my second year attending.” Jewel said. 

“I’m only just beginning as you can tell.” Harmonia said, pulling a little at her mane. She did that whenever she was nervous. 

“Well, don’t worry you’ll like the Princess.” Jewel assures her. 

Harmonia smiles back, the door open to reveal Princess Celestia not only was she the Ruler and Leader of Equestria, but she was also a teacher of her own school. 

“Sorry I’m late everypony!” Celestia said, walking in. 

“Good morning Princess!” The class of seven said in unison. 

“Welcome to Fundamentals of Magic, the class where you'll begin your extensive magical education with me, Princess Celestia.” She said.

“Now let's put the "fun" in "fundamental", shall we? Magic is a mysterious force that takes many forms in our world. Magic can be big and bold, ancient and majestic, or even wacky and wild. Each of our magical abilities are different, from the signature color of our magical auras, to other unique talents, such as... a silly sixth sense.” 

“You mean that’s a thing?” Cotton Berry asked. 

“Indeed! Some ponies develop skills quite early on and their magic manifests in unique ways. Like a... continuously moving mane.” Celestia giggles. 

“Your magic must be harnessed through focused study and practice. Take heed though. If harnessed for the wrong reasons, your magic can turn dark, too. But if you have your heart and mind in the right place, there is no end to the incredible feats that you can achieve!” Celestia said smiling. 

“Now, Which two would like to demonstrate a conjuring spell?” Celestia asked.

No pony raised their hoofs. 

Crystal then raised her hoof. 

“Okay Crystal, pick who you would like to go against.” Celestia said. 

“I pick…” Crystal said, surveying the room. 

“You.” Crystal said, looking at Harmonia.

“You mean the scholarship pony?” Someone mutters. 

Harmonia stood up from her seat, and walked to the front of the classroom. 

“Okay girls, you can conjure whatever the students say. For example: say a rubber mallet. Then one or both of you can conjure it. Got it?” Celestia said. 

“Mhm.” Harmonia said.

“Yeah, sure.” Crystal mutters. 

“Ready? And go.” Celestia said.

“A chicken!” Jewel shouted. 

“We don’t do live animals, Jewel.” Celestia said. 

“Fine, a rubber chicken.” Jewel repeats.

“That’s better.” Celestia said. 

Harmonia and Crystal both materialized it into existence. 

“A rubber mallet.” Said another. 

Conjured. 

“Confetti.” Shouted another student. 

Conjured. 

“Donuts?” Another student shouts. 

“Is that all you think about is food?” Giggles another. 

“What! I’m hungry.” They wined. 

Harmonia whips up a donut for the young pony. 

“Thanks.” They said, smiling at Harmonia.

“You know what I heard goes great with donuts?” Crystal said. 

Crystal conjured up a cup of iced coffee. 

Harmonia looks confused at first, knowing no other student has said anything about a beverage. 

“Maybe you shouldn’t um.” Said another. 

“Crystal.” Cotton Berry warns. 

But it was too late, Crystal then drencheds Harmonia in its sweeting flavor, leaving her speechless. 

Cotton Berry looks at Harmonia really unsure of what to exactly say. “Hey, are you okay.” Cotton Berry asked. 

Harmonia who was soaked, and stunned mutters out. “O-of course. Maybe I should just go...“  

“No, wait.” Cotton called out, but Harmonia gave him a sorrowful look. 

“.... I’ll be fine.” Harmonia mutters. 

Harmonia glares at Crystal, wishing she could use her powers on her like she did in the exam room, however she just couldn’t bring herself to hurt other innocent lives. 

“Crystal!” Celestia said, her voice stern. 

But that’s the only thing Harmonia heard before leaving the classroom. 


***


“There you are!” Jewel said, looking at Harmonia.

 “Hi! I’m Cotton Berry! Sorry about early I-“ he said, but Harmonia cuts him off. 

“Freaked out and ran away,” Harmonia asked. “Don’t worry I’m used to it by now.” Harmonia muttered. 

“What do you think you're doing?” Cotton Berry asks. 

“I’m going home!” Harmonia said.  

“Why?” Cotton Berry asked. 

“Because! I don’t like being known as the scholarship pony! And I don’t enjoy having iced coffee in my mane.” Harmonia said, looking at her friends. 

“Don’t worry we’ll get you some cream and sugar, and a paparazzi to make sure they get your good side, everything will be okay Princess.” Cotton Berry said, lighting the mood. 

Harmonia rolls her eyes. As she ignited her magic to teleport home, Cotton Berry blows it out. 

Harmonia tries again, but Cotton Berry blows it out once again. 

“Hey! Stop un-igniting my magic.” Harmonia complains. 

“No. You're gonna quit this school on your first day, just because of one mean filly?” Cotton Berry asked. 

“It's not just Crystal! It's just... I don't fit in here with... All this.” Harmonia said, waving her paw around. 

“You're not normal either.” Cotton Berry said. 

“You don’t say.”Harmonia said, sarcasm leaking through her voice. 

“Look, we both saw what you can do in that Exam room, besides you turned me into a blueberry and Jewel here into a literal jewel. You're special. You're fantastic. You belong at this school, besides being normal is boring.” Cotton Berry said, before walking back to class. 

“He’s right you know. You do belong at this school. So don’t quit, if not for us then for yourself.” Jewel said before walking back to class. 


***


Harmonia walks down the hall. She gazes upon the artifacts that were placed on the walls and in glass cases. She looks in one of them, noticing that one of them was of her mom. “Star Pupil: Twilight Sparkle.” It was a picture of her mom back when she was a filly. 

“I'm never going to be like her…” Harmonia mutters to herself, her ears flattened.

Celestia was about to round her corner to get more supplies for the other classrooms when she overheard Harmonia talking. However the hallways were empty hinting that she was indeed alone at this moment. 

“Why did Mommy pick me to attend this place? I don’t fit in here, I’m different from everypony here. I stick out like a sore thumb.” Harmonia mutters as she lowers her head. 

Celestia took Harmonia's response as her cue to go and make sure her student was alright. 

“Harmonia, are you okay?” Celestia wonders. 

Harmonia ears perked up as she quickly masks her insecurities with a smile. 

“Yes, Princess! Why would you ask?” Harmonia wonders. 

“It’s just that I overheard you talking and-” Celestia starts, but Harmonia cuts her off. 

“You know I should really get to heading outside, before break is over.” Harmonia said, before quickly hurrying off. 

“No, wait.” Celestia calls out, but she was too late. Harmonia was already gone. 

Celestia gazes at the picture of Twilight when she was a filly, she softly sighs before going back to doing what she had planned in the first place. 


***


“I’m surprised you decided to stay especially after that ice cold incident.” Crystal said rudely. Harmonia rolled her eyes and avoided eye contact. Crystal scoffed and looked towards Jewel. 

"What are you even doing hanging out with her anyways Jewel? You know as well as I that she doesn't belong here." Crystal sneers. 

"She has a right to be here just like everypony else." Jewel said, defending her new friend. 

"Yes, everypony but she isn't a pony only half. Besides, Aunt Twilight told me about her existence when I was seven and she was only three when I first met her." Crystal said, gazing at Harmonia. 

Jewel looks at Harmonia then at Crystal. 

Harmonia raised her head and narrowed her eyes. 

“What did you just say!” Harmonia said angrily. Harmonia rose to her hoofs and walked towards her cousin. 

“You heard me. Loser. Are you deaf or something? Why don't you go back to the Canterlot Gardens where you belong.” Crystal replied, flipping her mane from one side to the other. 

Harmonia growled. She ignits her paws and blasted a dark pink electric storm cloud near Crystal. Crystal screams as she falls to the ground, landing in a nearby mud puddle. 

“How dare you!?” Harmonia yelled. Jewel placed her hoof on Harmonia, slightly calming her. 

“Harmonia stop! Don’t hurt Crystal!” Jewel shouts, before trotted over to Crystal and helped her to her hooves. Harmonia was surprised at this action. Crystal wiped the mud off her hoof in disgust. 

“But I thought we were friends?” Harmonia mutters. 

“Princess Celestia will hear about this!” Crystal said, walking away from her. Jewel sadly followed behind her as Harmonia stood there in horror. 


***


"Harmonia Sparkle, mind telling me what just happened. Crystal, your cousin, came to me about telling me that you were the one that started a fight in the courtyard." She said, her voice slightly stern.

"If you ask me, she's twisting her story. If you need proof or think I'm lying then I'll happily get Jewel Bliss to vouch." Harmonia said, defending herself.

"Honestly you're mother didn't cause this much trouble as a filly when she was your age." Celestia chides.

"And I wouldn't have either if Crystal didn't cause trouble. Believe me I've known her since she was three. I know she hates me for some odd reason." Harmonia said.

Celestia sighs. "I'll have a talk with Crystal if that will make you feel better. However, I do not condone fighting here at my school. Your mother brought you here to make friends, did she not?" Celestia asked.

"I guess, but I... I was just trying to prove I belong here." Harmonia said, her ears flattened. Celestia stays silent listening to the small draconquess once again.

"By fighting?" Celestia questions.

Harmonia shook her head no and sighed. "I feel like no matter what I try, I always have to prove that I belong here." Harmonia said, looking at the Princess her eyes filled with hurt.

"It was only your first day of school, first days are always the hardest to get by. Who knows maybe tomorrow will be better." Celestia said, giving some encouragement to Harmonia, in her usual motherly tone.

“So, your saying I should give this school  a second chance?” Harmonia asks. Celestia smiled gently down at her. 

“Exactly!” She beams. 

Harmonia thought for a moment. "Maybe you're right I should give this school a second chance." Said Harmonia, who gave a soft smile before walking out of the room.

"That's what I'd like to hear! Now you can head on back to your class. I would hate for you to be late." Said Celestia.

Harmonia nodded, she watched as Celestia turned her back to a filing cabinet, using her magic to file away papers. Harmonia took it as her cue to leave.


***


“....... One of the best ways we can harness magical energy is through the careful use of spells. When you think of a spell, you might imagine a set of words that you say aloud. But they aren't always spoken as an incantation. Sometimes, spells can be concocted in a bubbling pot and turned into a magical potion, found in a rare plant species, or even by reading from the pages of an old ancient tome and accidentally creating new magic. It's true that spells are complex and take lots and lots of practice. You might have a little trouble at first, nopony gets it right on the first try.”

“However, students, don't be shy about attempting spellwork. Some of the greatest ponies in history, such as Star Swirl the Bearded, have achieved great things employing spells as a magical conduit. Just don't use them to make ponies fall in love or to cut corners in your assignments. And just to be safe, we should all probably stay away from time travel. But simple spells can still be very useful.” Celestia said. 

“But can’t magic also be used for evil intentions?” Asked Jewel. 

“Of course! Magic can provide so many wonderful things for us here in Equestria. It aids the Pegasi in creating our beautiful weather, the Earth ponies in growing our delicious crops of fresh food, and allows the unicorns to create useful items that benefit all ponies. But magical power is not simple. It has the ability to change the pony who uses it. And not always in a good way. For example, one of the most powerful sorcerers of all time has spent most of his life using his powers to inflict chaos in Equestria. Queen Chrysalis —-“ 

“Wait, is she talking about your father?” Jewel whispers. 

“I don’t see what he has to do with any of it?” Harmonia mutters, as she sits there thinking to herself. 

“So, as you see, magic can be a marvelous tool or it can be a heavy burden. And should you ever find yourself becoming overwhelmed by the dark power of magic, I happen to know a group of ponies that pull you back into the light.” Celestia said smiling. 

The bell rings once again, signaling that it was time to go home. "Okay students, that's all for today! I will see you all first thing tomorrow morning. Please be safe." Celestia announced as the students left.  


***


 Twilight and Discord await outside of Celestia’s school for Harmonia. Harmonia appears with a neutral look on her face.  “Hey, fuzzball did you have a great day at school?” Discord asks, ruffling his daughter's mane. 

“It was great, daddy! I finished Magic School!” Harmonia said, her tone gleeful. 

Discord and Twilight both looked at each other slightly confused. “Uh... no. That- That- That was just orientation sweetie.” Twilight said, lightly laughing. 

Suddenly Harmonia's entire mood shifted as she remembered what her first day consisted of. 

“C-Can we just go home?” Harmonia asks, her tone sounding slightly low and inaudible, but still loud enough for them to hear. 

Discord and Twilight both look at each other once again for a split second. Twilight looks back down at her daughter, but this time Discord spoke for her. “Sure, fuzzball let’s go home.” He said. 


***


Dinner at Twilight’s castle was pretty simple. 

The family say around a table as they ate. Discord usually eats whatever so for dinner tonight, he is eating pillows and chairs that were mixed into a liquid which was poured into a bowl. Twilight was eating vegetable soup as Harmonia was eating chocolate-coated vegetables. 

“So Harmonia, how was your first day of school?” Twilight asked her soup as she levitated her spoon into the soup and raised it to her mouth. 

“It was good….. I guess?” Harmonia replied, playing with her food. 

“You guess? Harmony you were happy a few minutes ago until I noticed your mood shifted. Was everything okay?” Twilight asked, placing her spoon down on the table. 

“Everything was fine mommy. I had a good day at school. No big deal…” Harmonia replied. Twilight turned and looked at her husband. Discord was still eating until he finally noticed his wife’s gaze. He gulped down his meal and looked at her confused. Twilight directed her eyes from him to their daughter. It took a minute to figure it out but he got it. 

“Um.. sweetie? Did ...um… anything happen at ...um… school today?” Discord stammered. Harmonia looked up from her food and looked at her father. She did not want to tell her parents about what happened today. 

“Uh… no…” Harmonia said, as she stabs her fork into her veggies. “Nothing important.” 

Silence fell upon the dining room. “Come on, sweetie something exciting has to have happen out of today.” Twilight said. 

“Well, I made a new friend.” Harmonia said. 

“That's great news!” Beams Twilight. 

“Until I found out she was already friends with somepony else.” Mutters Harmonia, her ears flattened a bit.  

Twilight's ears flatten a bit. “Wait… That somepony would not happen to be Crystal... would it?” Discord wonders. 

Harmonia nodded her head. “Well I hope you at least did something about it, sweetheart.” He said. 

“I did daddy, I blasted an electric storm cloud at her!” Harmonia beams. 

“You did what!?” Twilight asks, her eyes widened. “Please tell me you didn't get into trouble with Princess Celestia?” Twilight said, her tone laced with worry. 

“Maybe…” Harmonia's voice went slightly high pitched. 

Twilight smacks her hoof to her face. “Hey if you ask me, Harmonia was only doing what was right.” Discord said, defending their daughter. 

Twilight sighs. “I agree, but still she could have hurt somepony else.” Twilight said.

“I wish it would have been Crystal.” Mutters Harmonia. 

“Harmonia!” Twilight scolds.

 “What?! She deserved it! I should have just turned her into a duck like Daddy said. But no I just had to go soft on her.” Harmonia said, rolling her eyes. She had her claw and paw crossing over her chest. “That storm cloud should have zap her a few times.” She thinks the last bit to herself. 

Twilight sighed as she rubbed her head with her hooves. 

“I-I don’t know what to say Harmonia! Crystal is your cousin! I don’t understand why you would do that! Crystal is a nice pony!” Twilight raised her voice slightly. 

“She’s not Mommy! She said that I don't belong at that school! And she's right, I don’t fit into that school Mommy! You know what the worst part is?” Harmonia, chokes on her own tears.

 “She called me a half breed! She's a racist brat that is never going to accept me for who I am!”  Harmonia yelled, tears running down her face. Discord and Twilight gasped and looked at their daughter in horror. Harmonia jumped out of her chair and raced down the hallway. Starlight quickly moves out of the way for Harmonia to pass through. 

Twilight sighed. “So much for dinner.” she mutters to herself, as she was clearing the table. Starlight walks into the kitchen.

 “Twilight? What’s going on? I was practicing a new spell and I just happen to get distracted by a bunch of screaming and yelling.” Starlight wonders. 

“It’s nothing Starlight. No need to worry. It’s just that Harmonia is in some trouble right now. I will have a talk with her later.” Twilight said.

“Alright then Twi. You know, you can come to me anytime right? I’m always here for you.” Starlight said as she patted her friend’s shoulder. 

“Thank you, Starlight.” Twilight said. 


 ****


Twilight’s castle was dead silent for the night. She couldn’t help, but feel that something was wrong. Twilight curled up on her bed, thinking about what she is going to say to her daughter. Discord poofed into the room, wearing a yellow robe and drinking from a coffee cup that said: CHAOS FOR LIFE! 

“Hello honey! Care for a cup of Joe?” He said as he made a cup of coffee appear in front of her. 

“Thank you for the offer though, but No thank you Discord.” Twilight said as she stared at the floor of their bedroom. Discord sighed as he sat next to her.

“Are you thinking about our daughter? I know she got in trouble but let’s think of it as a good thing! She learned her lesson and we both know that she won’t do it again!” Discord assures Twilight. 

Twilight was about to protest, but a different voice spoke up. 

“Perhaps I could help?” Twilight and Discord looked to the door to see Twilight’s royal guard Tempest at the doorway. 

“Forgive me Princess Twilight for intruding like this, but I can go check up on your daughter. I think I have something that can help her understand what she has done wrong.” Tempest asked. Twilight and Discord looked at each other and back at Tempest. 

“Well ... okay then. If you want to, that is.” Twilight said with a smile. Tempest smiles back and nodded as she walked away and closed the door behind her. 

“You think reformed Berry Horse will know what she’s gonna say?” Discord asked Twilight. Twilight giggled as she wrap her hooves around his neck. 

“I’m sure. I know Tempest. I know that she will talk to our fluffball.” Twilight said her tone assuring.   


***


Harmonia lays down in her bed, curled up into a tiny ball. She cries softly into her fur. Tempest watches for a moment, a sad expression etched onto her face. Feeling sorry for the filly-er tiny draconequus, Tempest knocks on the panel of Harmonia’s door frame. Harmonia’s ears pricked up at the sudden sound, she really hope it was Discord, but instead she got a different visitor. 

“Harmonia? Can I come in? I need to talk to you.” Tempest said carefully, trying to not make the young pony-draconequus more upset. Harmonia knew that voice and slightly groaned. Tempest opened the door and poked her head through it. 

“Harmonia? Are you here?” Tempest asked as she looked around the room. She stopped the little gray ball on the bed and slightly chuckled. Tempest went over to the bed, levitated a pillow and smacked it against Harmonia. Harmonia snorted with laughter but her smile faded as she saw the look on Tempest’s face wasn’t what she had expected. Harmonia looked away from Tempest as she sat on her bed. 

“You know.. I was like you once. Different from other ponies. I once led an army that destroyed Canterlot. But your mom taught me that I needed Friendship and that she was there for me. Anger isn’t the way to solve your problems. Trust me; I know. But you can’t change who you are. You are you. And being you is truly wonderful.” Tempest lifted Harmonia’s chin. Harmonia hugged Tempest giving her a bit of a shock but she hugged back. Starlight smiled as she watched the pair hugged through the doorway.

“Thank you Tempest. You are a great friend!” Harmonia said, happily. Tempest smiled and walked towards the door. She closed it and was met face to face with Starlight. 

“You know, that was a nice speech you gave Harmonia. Probably better than what I could’ve given her!” Starlight giggled. 

“Well, I tried. I am still learning how to make friends and I’m glad that I am friends with you and Twilight.” Tempest smiled. 

“Well, you still did a great job for your first time! I think Twilight and Discord would be proud of you.” Starlight said to Tempest, smiling at the pastel pink-lavender unicorn. 

“I was just doing what anypony else would.” Tempest said, her tone modest. Starlight yawns.  “Well, goodnight Tempest.” Starlight said, turning in for the night. 

“Goodnight, Starlight.” Tempest said. 


***


Elsewhere a pair of glowing white eyes, was watching them from a distance, before returning back to wherever they came from. 
> Chapter 8: Secret Crushes & Nightmare Fuel
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia’s POV: 

The moon shimmered overhead, Celestia was still awake at this dawning hour of the night. The sun princess had a lot on her mind tonight, she just couldn't shake whatever she was thinking about from her thoughts. She groans, not really wanting to get up from her comfortable position in bed, but if it will help her take her mind off of this then she will be more than happy to oblige. 

She sighs. “Maybe a glass of water would help.” She thought to herself. Celestia gets up, making her way down the long hallway. Silence fills the void, the only sound was her hooves making contact with the title floor. As well as her thoughts.  

Why was she even thinking about this mess in the first place? Celestia shook her head as she groggily made her way to the kitchen sink. Once she reaches the kitchen, she uses her magic aura to let the cool running water flow from the faucet. She then levitates the glass to her lips. 

“Sister,” Luna’s calming voice startled Celestia. Celestia slightly jumped. She turned around to see that it was her younger sister. She forgot that Luna normally stays up a little late even after her duties were done for the night. 

“What are you doing up this late?” Luna wonders. Celestia sighs sitting her cup down on a nearby table. “I can't sleep.” She said. 

Luna stays silent for a moment. “Well, is there something troubling you?” Luna asks, a concerned look was displayed on her face. The only light that was coming from the kitchen window was Luna’s bright white moon. Celestia sighs. “I-I’m not sure… here lately I haven't been able to eat, sleep or even think straight-” 

“Ooo,” Luna swoons. Luna then, goes into a child-like singing voice. “Tia’s in love, Tia's in love.” 

Celestia looks at her sister her eyes narrowed slightly. “So, who's the lucky stallion.” Luna asks, still happy for her sister, however Celestia felt slightly uncomfortable saying his name. 

Celestia stays quiet for a moment. “What? I'm not going to judge you.” Luna said. “So come on, tell me.” Luna begs, her sister. 

Celestia bit the inside of her cheek, she then sighs. “It's… Discord.” Luna's joyful grin falters. “Wait…. What?” Luna said, her tone slightly monotonous. 

“I thought you said you wasn't going to judge?!” Celestia asks. “I-I'm not, it's just-” Luna pauses thinking of how to rephrase this to her sister. “Sister, you know Discord is married to Twilight. Their wedding was five years ago, are you still not over it?” Luna wonders. 

Celestia thought for a moment. “Well of course not!” She snaps. Luna flinches a bit from Celestia's sudden reaction. “Sorry Luna, it's just when I saw Twilight and Discord at the schoolhouse yesterday to drop off their daughter. I just could not help, but feel I don't know how to describe it really-” 

“Jealous?” Luna wonders. 

“You could say that. I just imagine one day having my own family with him. ” Celestia said. “ Besides, we have had more history with Discord than Twilight has. Luna, you and I both know that! Why do I always have to be the one who is unhappy?” Celestia stomps her hoof to the ground.

“I never should have reintroduced those two at The Grand Galloping Gala that we had three years ago. Maybe things would have been different now.” Celestia clenched her teeth, tears pricks at the corner of her eyes. 

“Tia, you can't go back in time and change what's already been done now. All you can do is move on.” Luna explains. 

“I know, It's just-” Celestia sighs, she levitates the glass of water to her lips before sitting it back down. “when both Discord and I were just little kids, we did everything together we were practically inseparable.” 


***



Castle Of The Two Sister 1000 B.C.R (Before Celestia Ruled) 


The small garden of The Castle Of The Two Sisters, the garden was accompanied by two small fillies. One with light blue short mane and the other was a bit taller than her, but she had a light pink mane and white coat. Their names were Celestia and Luna. 

Both of the filly's giggle as they were playing Hide-and-seek. “Okay, Luna it's your turn to seek.” A young Celestia said.

“But, I always have to find you.” Wines a Young Luna. 

“Hey it's not my fault I'm so good at hiding.” Celestia, sticks out her tongue. 

Luna rolls her eyes, huffing. “Fine, but after this it's my turn to hide. Got it?” Luna said. 

Celestia nods and wonders off for a hiding place.

“One… Two…. Five….” Luna said, trying her best to count. 

Celestia wonders off on the other side of the garden. She hides in one of the sculptured bushes. “She'll never find me here.” Mumbles Celestia, mostly to herself. 

“Ready or not here I come!” Announces Luna. 

Celestia stays quiet for the next thirty-five minutes. The only sound she could hear was her own breathing. “How long does it take her to find me?” Wonders Celestia.

“Your telling me.” Said another voice. 

Celestia eyes widen. “Wh-Who’s there?” Calls out Celestia. 

“It's just me.” Me said. Then a pair of tiny glowing yellow eyes with red iris appear. 

Celestia screams and stumbles out of her hiding place. 

“Found you!” Luna announced, once she spotted her sister. Celestia however was as white as a ghost. “Sister, are you okay?” She wonders. 

“T-There’s somepony in there.” Celestia points a shaking hoof over to the bush that she was just hiding in. 

“What are you talking about? There's nopony there.” Luna said, waving her small hoof at the bush. 

“Actually, yes there is.” Said the same voice again, this time it appeared out of hiding. 

This time it was Luna's turn to scream. “I'm not going to hurt you, I promise!” Said the tiny creature. “Look what I can do.” The tiny creature snaps his claws as a small pink  thundercloud appears, raining chocolate milk rain. He then made a glass appear for himself, filling it up. “Care for some chocolate milk?” He offers. 

The girls shook their heads, still clearly shocked at his rather unusual appearance. “Who are you?” Celestia wonders. 

“What are you? And what's your name?” Luna wonders. 

The tiny creature laughed slightly at the two sisters' curiosity. “My name's Discord and I'm a draconequus.” He beams. “And who may you two be?” He wonders. 

“Well I'm Luna and this is my sister Celestia. One day we are going to rule Equestria.” Luna brags. 

“So, you are Princesses?” Discord wonders. Celestia nods. 


(Voice over) “I'm taking it that this backstory is going to take awhile?” Luna wonders. 

“Yep.” Celestia said. 

“Want some cake while you tell the rest of it?” Luna wonders. 

“Eh sure.” Celestia mutters. 

(Back to the backstory) 

“So where are you from?” Celestia wonders. 
“Well I came from the caves up in the Northern mountain.” Discord explains. 

“Where's your mommy and daddy?” Luna wonders. 

“Luna, that's a bit too nosey even for me.” Celestia scolded her younger sibling. 

“It's okay really, and they left…. I'm honestly not sure where they are.” Discord mumbles. 

“Awe that's so sad.” Luna said, her eyes watering slightly. 

“Hey, I have an idea! You can live with us!” Beams Celestia. 

“Are you sure that's a good idea?” Wonders Luna. 

“Shh, Luna be nice.” Mutters Celestia. 

(Voice Over)

 “Over the years, as we grew up. We became close like two inseparable best friends. He was there for me when no one else was, even when you were banished to the moon.” Celestia explains. 

“Sister I don’t think I want to relive that moment of being banished to the moon.” Luna said, her tone blunt. 

Celestia sighs. “Fine. Oh! There was also the Gala.” 

“Wait… what happened at the gala?” Luna asked, slightly confused. 

“You were there, remember?” Celestia said, her tone blunt. 

“Um… no.” Luna said, her voice leaking sarcasm. 


***

Gala Night, 2015 

Celestia and Twilight watched as the guests came into the gala and enjoyed its festivities the night had to offer.  

“I must say, it's been very nice having you take over some of the planning responsibilities for this year's Gala.” Celestia said, smiling at her former equal. 

Twilight smiles back. “Anything I can do to make it easier on you.” She said, looking out at the sea of ponies. 

“Thank you, Twilight. I am quite looking forward to just enjoying the Gala for once.” Celestia said breathing a sigh of relief as a horn from one of the guards from the gala sounded off making Twilight and Celestia look straight ahead. 

“Announcing the spirit of chaos, Discord!” The guard announced. 

“What is he doing here? He didn't come here to wreck chaos at the gala did he?” Twilight thought. 

She looks at her former mentor. “I'll take care of this.” She said quickly, flying over to Discord. 

“What are you doing here?” Twilight asked her voice lowered in a whisper. 

“Why, I just happen to come to enjoy the Gala Princess, can I not?” Discord asked. 

“W-well yeah but…” Twilight sighs, looking back at her mentor who smiles and waves at her, before snapping her attention back to Discord. 

“This night is extremely important to me, Discord.” Twilight said, before baring her teeth. “Don’t do anything chaos worthy to ruin my evening.” 

“Yes, yes, yes, of course. I promise I’ll be on my best behavior Princess.” Discord said, before walking away. 

This made Twilight have a light blush on her cheeks before returning to Celestia's side, her composure back to its former self. 

“Sorry about that.” Twilight said looking out at the ponies who were enjoying their evening. Twilight only wishes she was doing the same with her friends, but she did promise Celestia that she would help her with this year's Gala. 

Celestia notices Twilight’s bothered expression on her face. “You know? Why don’t you go and have fun with your friends? I can handle the meet and greet tonight.” Celestia said, giving her a warm smile. 

Twilight looks at her slightly grateful but also confused. “Are you sure Princess?” 

“Sure! Go have fun! I don’t want you to be bored tonight by just staying here and helping me out. Now go on.” She said, giving her a soft smile. 


***

Outside the guards were getting tickets from the Gala goers. 

“Ticket please.” The guard said. 

The pony just walked right past, but the guard put a hoof to her chest. “I’m sorry ma’am, but we can’t let you in without a ticket.” He said.

“What do you mean by “a ticket”? I am the Princess of the Night. I don’t believe I need a ticket to these sorts of events my sister always host.” Luna explains. 

The guard scoffs. “Sure you are and I’m the Governor of Fillydelphia.” He said, his tone sarcastic. 

Luna narrows her eyes, slightly pissed. “A pony goes out once in her lifetime to a party and now she isn’t even recognized?!” She, mutters sarcastically to herself. 

Luna sighs. “Look if you don’t let me through I will gladly let Nightmare Moon in on this.” 

“As if you know her? She’s been gone moons ago.” The guard said. 

“Oh is she now?” Nightmare Moon said. 

The guards' eyes remained expressionless. 

“For the love of me! Never mind!” Luna said, who was still in her Nightmare form. 

“I’ll just find another way in.” Luna mutters. 

Luna flies off and to the back of the castle. “I knew this tunnel beneath the castle would come in handy one day! However, I can’t believe this is how I’m needing to get into my own castle.” Luna mumbles. 

Luna walks through the tunnels which were paroled by a few of the royal guards, their eyes widened when they locked eyes with Luna, who forgot to de transform from Nightmare Moon.

“N-Nightmare Moon.” The guard said, his tone shaky.

Luna's eyes widened. “Crap I forgot about this form.” She de-transform from her nightmare half. 

The guard looks at her with widened eyes. “P-Princess Luna?!” 

“I’m so sorry, your highness! I didn’t recognize you! It’s just you don’t exactly come to these events that your sister hosts. W-why did you not go into the castle by the front gates?” 

“It’s a long story.” Luna mumbles. 

“Well p-please enjoy the Gala your highness.” The guard said, still slightly shaken from fear. 

Luna rolls her eyes before continuing onward. 


***


Celestia watches as everyone was enjoying their night she even giggles as she saw Discord pull a small prank or two. 

“You look beautiful tonight sister.” Luna said, she was all dolled up in her Gala attire. 

But her mane was a tad disarrayed and messy as her dress had cobwebs on it. 

“Luna you're here? But I thought you didn’t like coming to these sorts of events.” Celestia wonders. 

“Hey it never hurts to have fun every once in a while, besides the Gala only happens once a year and I finally have a chance to enjoy it with the ponies I care about.” Luna said, giving her sister a soft smile. 

Celestia's eyes widen at her sister’s rugged appearance. “Um… what happened to you?” 

Luna and Celestia stare at each other for a bit. “........ OH YOU TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED! WHAT DID HAPPEN DEAR SISTER!?” 

“Luna ... calm down.” Celestia said. 

“No! I wasted ten minutes arguing with the guard outside which by the way you need to fire. All because he couldn’t recognize me.” Luna said. 

“Well Luna you don’t really get out much….” Celestia mumbles. 

Luna narrows her eyes. “All because I wanted to party so I got to party alright! With the bats, spiders and eventually got here!!!” Luna rants. 

“Wha-“ Celestia questions. 

Luna’s teeth bared. “Don’t ask.” She said as she was cleaning herself up, removing the cobwebs from her dress and redoing her mane into its original style. 

“Seriously though, you need to fire that guard and lower his paycheck... Taxes are high enough here.” Luna said her tone was blunt. 

Celestia giggles lightly as Luna looks out at the guests that attend tonight’s glorious event. 

She spots Discord talking with Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Tree Hugger Rarity and Applejack along with the CMC. 

“Wait you mean Discord is here?” Luna questions slightly confused. 

“Yeah, Besides can you imagine how dull it would have been if I hadn't invited Discord?” Celestia mutters to herself. 

“Sister, this has a bad idea written all over it.” Luna scolds. 

“What? He’s just a friend.” Celestia said, her tone nonchalant. 

“A ''friend” ? Friends don’t invite friends to the Gala Tia.” Luna said, arching her eyebrows. 

“Oh Lulu, you’ll understand one day when you actually have a love life right now this is why you don’t have one…” Celestia said. 

Luna glares at her. “Yeah? Then why is he mingling with Twilight over there.” Luna said, looking at Discord and Twilight who were laughing with each other. 

“ALRIGHT EVERYPONY IT IS TIME TO CELEBRATE THIS YEARS GALA!” Celestia announced. 

“But-” Luna states, but the ponies cheering and whistling interrupts her sentence. 

“Luna you should go and enjoy the Gala as well. I think we both deserve a break tonight.” Celestia said, descending the stairs. 

“I will join you in a few, sister. I think I’ll just stay here and observe the party.” Luna said. 

Celestia shugs. “Suit yourself. I’m going to go greet the guest on the dance floor.” She said, before walking away. 


***


“Twilight? Would you like to dance?” Discord asked. 

“Oh! I’m not much of a dancer. My friends can definitely vouch for that.” Twilight said, lightly giggling. 

“You can definitely say that again.” Fluttershy said, lightly giggling.

“Yeah! Her dancing looks like a dying chicken crossed with a possessed dog.” Rainbow Dash snorts. 

“Okay? Don’t you have dates or something?” Twilight asked.

“Hey, it’s fine, we can stay here and just talk if you would prefer that instead.” Discord said, softly smiling at her. 

Twilight smiles. “You know? I am surprised you were able to keep your chaos under control tonight.” Twilight said. 

“You said this event was important to you. I didn’t want to wreck your evening.” Discord explains. 

“Adorable…” Rarity said, lightly swooning at the two. 

“We’re just friends, nothing else.” Twilight said. 

“Friends don’t look at friends like the way you two have been all night Twi.” Applejack said. 

Twilight lightly blushed while her friends giggled. 

They didn’t know Celestia was behind Twilight. 

“Excuse me Twilight? Do you mind if I borrow Discord for a few? I have to ask him if he can help with an event for the Gala tonight.” Celestia asked. 

“Oh, um sure.” Twilight said, slightly confused.

The two walked away leaving Twilight to talk with her friends. 


***

Voice over

“Why did you do that Tia?” Luna asked

“Shut It Luna I’m trying to tell a dramatic love triangle story.” Celestia explains.


***

“So what is this event you need help with exactly Princess.” Discord asked, following the Princess down the hall. 

“Oh it’s out here on the balcony and in the gardens.” Celestia said. 

“You know you clean up rather nicely for a creature of chaos ya know?” Celestia said, making small talk. 

“Oh Tia! You baffle me.” He chuckles. “You look beautiful tonight as well. So what chaos do you need me to cause tonight to make this event more festive?” Discord asked.

Celestia opens the door to the balcony. “Oh you’ll see.” She said, before closing the door behind her. 

He notices that the balcony and garden was already festive. “Wait the garden is already decorated. Celestia what is this about?” 

“Discord, I have been meaning to tell you something, something I never told you the moment we met…” she started. 


*** 

Luna watches the party goers, but she doesn't see her sister. “Wait? Where’s Tia?” Luna wonders. 

She descends down a flight of stairs and walks amongst the party goers. “Wonderful gala your highness.” One of them said, bowing to her. 

“Thank you now if you’ll excuse me I’m actually looking for somepony.” Luna said, she notices Twilight and her friends laughing. 

“Twilight? Sorry for interrupting you having fun with your friends, but have you seen my sister?” Luna asked. 

“Uh yeah. She needed Discord help with an event for the Gala…” Rainbow Dash explains. 

“Do you know where they are at?” Luna asked. 

“No clue, Princess.” Fluttershy said. 

“Okay thank you.” Luna said, before walking off. 

An idea strikes. “I think I have a good idea where they could be.” Luna thought to herself. 


*** 


“What is it, Celestia?” Discord asked. 

“Um… would you like something to drink?” Celestia asked, mentally kicking herself for asking something stupid. 

“Wha-“ Discord said, slightly confused. 

“That’s not what I meant to say what I mean is…” Celestia sighs. 

Luna spots the two out on the balcony. “Bingo.” She mutters to herself. 

She then teleported herself into some nearby bushes, listening. 

“Discord, I've been meaning to t-tell you something... “ Celestia said. 

Celestia leans in about to give Discord a kiss, at first he was reluctant to remember he was at the Gala with someone: Twilight. 

“Oh hell no!” Luna shouts. 

This broke them apart. 

“Luna!” Celestia scolds. 

Luna then teleports between the two. “Don’t you Luna me! What was that?! Oh look at me, I'm Celestia, I smile and wave at pony politicians, I raise the sun with all my glory, and  I cheated with Discord from my prize pupil on my almost!” Luna said, her tone strict. 

“Luna! You had no business-“ Celestia said. 

“Oh did I sister?! Last time I checked I didn’t know it was a sin to spy on somepony you cared about which from the looks of it you didn’t!” Luna shouts. 

Discord watches the two back and forth with popcorn, Luna smacks the popcorn out of his hands. “Oh don’t think you're off the hook too!” Luna seethed. 

As if Luna’s outburst made him snap back into reality. “Your sister is right Celestia! What we are doing is wrong. This isn’t right what we are doing Twilight is our friend and…. I can’t do that to a friend. Let’s just go back inside and enjoy the Gala as friends.” Discord said, making the popcorn disappear. 

Celestia sighes slightly pissed that Luna ruined their moment. “Y-your right let's go.” Celestia said, turning back to go inside. 

“You know I think I’m gonna stay out here for a bit and do some reflecting.” Discord said, looking at the sky. 

“Yeah you do that. I have guests to finish greeting anyways.” Celestia said, turning back to go inside. 


***

“Princess Celestia, where's Discord? The Gala is almost over.” Twilight said. 

“Oh, he went out for some air, by the balcony.” Celestia explains. 

“Is he ok?” Twilight wonders. 

“Yeah, he’ll be fine. How are you enjoying the Gala?” Celestia asked, trying to make small talk. 

“Nice acting, sis…” Luna mutters loud enough for Celestia to hear. 

“Don’t you have guests to greet yourself?” Celestia wonders, her eyes narrowed at Luna. 

“Too stuffy for my-“ Luna said, but Discord cut her off. 

“Oh Twilight dear it's good to see you!” Discord said his tone was cheerful. 

“Oh, Discord where have you been?” Twilight wonders. “Celestia said you were out on the balcony.” 

“About to kiss my sister…” Luna coughs. 

Twilight looks at Discord in shock. “WHAT!?” She asked. 

“Luna, you imbecile!” Celestia said, her teeth bared. 

“Well it’s true! Besides you were planning on keeping it like it’s some major secret from her! She deserves to know the truth and if you ask me they should have given me the element of Honesty.” Luna explains. 

Twilight backs away her magic aura fumbling with the door handle she had to get out of there now. 

“Oh sugar plum it's not what you think!” Discord calls out after her. 

Celestia looks at Luna. “Out of all the things I want you to keep, of all the things I've let you do, you ungrateful pony…” She said. 

“Ungrateful? Ungrateful! At Least I don’t lie to my friends! You basically ruined your dearest former students' life. Who's the ungrateful pony now?” Luna asked, her teeth bared. 

“Dunno bout y’all but, she is spitting straight facts.” Applejack said, eating some food from the desert table. 


***

Twilight runs down the hallway with tears in her eyes. 

She just wanted to go home. 

“Twilight! Twilight! Wait!” Discord calls out, he grabs Twilight by the hoof spinning her to face him. 

“What was that back there? You came to the Gala alone, meet with me and then-“ Twilight said, but Discord lightly kisses her. 

“I know. Twilight I didn’t mean to make you feel the way I did. I honestly thought Celestia needed help with a few of the Gala preparations.” Discord said. 

“Honest?” Twilight asked. 

“Fully! I mean if I wasn’t do you believe I wouldn’t be outside the Gala chasing you down to make sure you’re okay? The old me wouldn’t have done that.” Discord said. 

Twilight lightly scoffs. “Applejack is right…. this... what we are doing isn’t a “just friends” thing. Is it? I mean Friends don’t kiss friends especially…. like that.” Twilight said lightly blushing. 

“Besides Tia and I agreed to just be friends nothing more… nothing less! Ugh! I don’t know why but I seem to care for you as more than just friends it seems. It’s like I can envision our future together— one day maybe. You mean more to me than all the chaos in Equestria Twilight Sparkle. I didn’t realize that until now- or well til Luna knocked some sense into me. Besides I couldn’t bear to hurt you and I can’t do that to a friend. ” Discord said lightly chuckling. 

Twilight remained silent, her eyebrows arched. 

“Okay more than a friend. What Celestia said and almost did on that balcony means very little to me at the moment all that matters is you. So what do you say? Want to head back inside and finish off the evening with a slow song or food if you prefer.” Discord said. 

Twilight softly giggles. “I would like that.” She softly mutters. 


***


(Back to present)

“Why didn’t you tell him sooner?” Wonders Luna, placing her plate in the sink. 

Celestia sighs. “Never got the chance to. After I  witnessed Discord walking back into the Gala with Twilight I just gave up.” Celestia places her fork in her cake.

 “I wish things were different. I wish I told him while I had the chance too.” Celestia mutters. 

Luna sighed and walked over to her sister.  “Well, If you ask me it is both of your faults. You both had miss opportunities.” Luna said. 

“More like you wrecked the moment.” Celestia chided. 

“I wrecked the moment?  I was just saving Twilight's reputation. Sorry if i cared back then. Besides don’t go pointing hooves at anypony who tries to save others Tia, it's not healthy.” Luna said. 

“Whatever, What we had was a fillyhood crush that seem to have resolved and resurfaced at the Gala. It’s like it’s came back to haunt me.” Celestia explains. 

“Well for those feelings to resurface and you reminiscing about it now obviously mean something to you.” Mutters Luna. 

Celestia sighs. “It's in the past. What's done is done now and nothing can be changed.” She said. 

Luna stays silent for a moment. “Besides it's not like he still feels the same way.” Celestia mutters. 

Luna thought for a moment. “Hey, you never know how somepony feels about you if you ask. And you can’t do anything about it now.” Luna said, nonchalantly. 

“... or can I...” Celestia beams. 

“Tia… don’t! Sister, I-I was just joking, you're not seriously going to ask him?! Besides Discord and Twilight are hardly ever away from each other.” Luna explains, warning her sister. 

“I'm sure she will have something important to go here to in the next few weeks.” Celestia said, her tone nonchalant. 

Luna rolls her eyes. “Well, I'm going to bed. Goodnight.” She said, yawning. 

Celestia in return yawns. “Same. Goodnight sister.” She watched as Luna heads back into her bed chambers. 

Celestia then turns back to her attention to the dirty plates that her and Luna had. She quickly washes the two before, heading to bed, but before she heads to bed she makes a quick stop to the throne room. 

She gazes upon her throne, thinking to herself. 

One day.
> Chapter 9: What's Wrong With Being Confident
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight walks into the small office with Celestia. “Celestia, if this is about Harmonia's behavior in school I will straighten her out once we get home.” Twilight explains. 

Celestia giggles. “Nonsense Twilight. Harmonia is not in trouble this time.” Celestia said, her tone nonchalantly. 

“Wait...what?” Twilight questions, slightly confused. 

“I actually came to talk to you about Harmonia.” Celestia explains. 

Twilight stayed silent, still slightly confused, by what her former mentor was trying to explain. 

Celestia continues. “I have been observing Harmonia's behavior these past few months. She is doing extremely well!” 


***


Harmonia sits outside under a shade tree keeping away from the other fillies and colts. She decided that she wanted to be alone for the day so that she could practice her magic. 

“Just concentrate.” Harmonia thought to herself. 

She ignits her horn, trying to turn her orange into an apple. 

“I almost got it.” Harmonia mumbles to herself. She breathes a sigh of relief, trying to get back to practicing. 

Until she heard somepony shouting, she lost concentration. She opens her eyes to see a young colt, the same colt she saw on her first day coming here, get bullied by some mare she has never seen before. 

She hears a swishing sound in front of her. It was Crystal, who snatched her orange up. “Hey! Give that back!” Whines Harmonia. 

Crystal only made a slight stuck up sound, scoffing at her cousin. Harmonia snatchs the orange back from her cousin and begins walking away. 

 “Why are you leaving? Scared of being humiliated?” Crystal calls out, she had a smirk played onto her muzzle. 

Harmonia stops and turns around. “Humiliated? By who?” Harmonia questions, her muzzle scrunched slightly. 

“Mystic!” Crystal calls over the mare. The mare, who Harmonia assumed was Mystic- trots over to where the two were standing at. Mystic had a white coat- similar to Crystal, but Mystic had a dirty blonde mane mixed with light blonde following by a few light blue streaks. Her cutie mark resemble a wand and of course like everypony here she was a unicorn. 

“Yes?” The unicorn had a perplexed look on her face. Harmonia could tell she was from Canterlot, every mare or stallion that came from Canterlot was always stuck up. 

Crystal said nothing, but shifts her eyes over to Harmonia. Mystic gasps. “Is this the mare you have been telling me about?” Mystic asks. 

Crystal nodded. “Of course.” Crystal mutters. 

“Oh I've been waiting a long time to finish you.” Mystic smirks. 

Harmonia looks at this mare with a bewildering expression on her face. “Hold up! Finish me? I-I don't even know who you are!” Harmonia said. “This mare is obviously crazy.” Harmonia thought to herself. 

“Are you the daughter of Princess Twilight Sparkle.” Mystic asks. 

“C-can I just lie and say no.” Harmonia asks. She really did not want to pick a fight today, she just got back on everypony good side again. 

“I'm afraid that's out of the question.” Mystic smirks. She fires her horn and blasts it at Harmonia. 

Harmonia moves out of the way. “Look I really don't want to fight. Besides, I barely even know you, but you seem like a nice mare.” Harmonia said, trying to reason with this crazy young mare. 

“Let's just say our mothers have a bit of history together.” Mystic said, circling around Harmonia. 

Harmonia got on all four keeping her distance from Mystic, but proceeds to circle around her. 

“I don't even know who your mother is.” Harmonia said. 

“Well I'm finishing what my mother started long ago, starting with you.” Mystic said, her eyes glowing. 

“Fine! If it's a duel you want, then a duel you shall have.” Harmonia said, she transforms herself back into the unicorn form she had on the first day she came here. 

“Just remembered, what I've told you time and time again you will never be nothing, you will always be nothing.” Crystal calls out. 

Harmonia rolls her eyes. “I'm going to show you what a real unicorn can do.” Mystic snarks, still circling around Harmonia. 

“Are you sure about that?” Harmonia questions. 

“Quite! I'll finish you one way or another.” Mystic snears. 

“Or not.” Harmonia smirks. 

“Draw!” Shouts Mystic. She levitates a nearby shrub and herald it in Harmonia’s direction, letting it hit Crystal instead. 

“Hey!” Crystal whines. Harmonia thinks for a moment sending pie and splattering it in Mystic’s face. 

A crowd begins to form around the two fillies. A few stifled laughers could be heard among the crowd. “Clever! But can you do this.” Mystic questions. Above her, White cloud of snow forms above Harmonia, dumping it above her. 

Harmonia uses a spell to melt the snow away. Harmonia, huffs glaring at the mare. “Don't tell me you give up all ready. I was just starting to have fun.” Mystic smirks, her tone viciously playful. 

“Not a chance!” Shouts Harmonia. Harmonia, quickly transforms out of her unicorn appearance, seeing that it wasn't doing her much of any good. 

Harmonia thinks quickly for a moment. “I'd hate to see you get attack by flash bees.” Harmonia said. She made the flash bees appear, but Mystic quickly made them disappear before they had a chance to sting her. 

The small colt examines from afar. “No way!” He mutters, he then gallops off to find somepony to help. 

“I really should have taken more magic lessons with mommy and daddy.” Harmonia thought to herself. 

*

Celestia’s office door flew open, to reveal the colt. His blue eyes were frantic and filled with worry. “What’s wrong Cotton Berry?” Celestia asks, her voice concerned.

Twilight turns her attention to the young colt.
  
“Princess Celestia!! There’s a magical duel going on outside!!” Cotton Berry announces, then he hurries off to join the others. 

Celestia and Twilight both look at each other, both mimicking the same expression. 

When the two alicorns got outside to the playground, they could hear colts and fillies yelling “FIGHT” over and over again. Celestia saw mini explosions of pink and blue magic smashing against each other. Celestia and Twilight looked at each other, worried and ran towards the fight. They moved past the little ponies and their jaws dropped at what they saw. Twilight gasped at the sight. 

“What is the meaning of all of this?” Celestia asks, her voice loud and stern. All the ponies went quiet. Harmonia and Mystic looked at the princess and stopped. 

“Okay, I know every student that attends my school, but you, I have never seen before.” Celestia said looking at Mystic. 

“What are you exactly doing here and attacking my student?” Celestia asks, her tone serious. 

“She has to pay!” Mystic said, pointing a hoof at her. 

”I didn’t even do anything to you.” Harmonia exclaims, as she stands beside her mother. 

Mystic rolled her eyes. She walks over to Harmonia whispering into her ear. 

“You better be lucky that the almighty Princess Celestia came in time. Or you would have been finished. Next time you won’t be such a lucky princess.” The young unicorn said, her tone rather threatening.


With foul words said, she teleported away. Twilight walked from behind Harmonia, her eyes narrowed. 

“Harmonia, do you know who that was?” Twilight asks. 


“No, but she definitely knew who you were.” Harmonia said, her tone serious. 
Twilight looked at her daughter with a puzzled expression. “Everypony head to class.” Celestia instructions the crowd of ponies. 

Everypony follows Celestia’s orders, except Harmonia, who stayed behind with Twilight. “What are you doing here anyways?” Harmonia asks. 

“I'm not exactly sure, but Celestia wanted to talk to me about you.” Twilight said. 

“Am I in trouble?” Harmonia asks. 

“Not really. It's like a parent teacher conference so to speak.” Twilight explains. 

“Oh! Well I better get to class, don't want to be late.” Harmonia beams then hurried off. 


***


“This is not the class I wish to be in.” Harmonia mutters. She was in detention for the next three hours. 

“Well maybe next time you will learn not to start fights on school grounds.” Celestia said, she then shuts the door. 

After sitting there, staring blankly at her paper where she was supposed to write: “ I will not fight in school anymore”  instead she just shouts to herself. “This is boring!” 

She then teleports out of detention. 

The door to Celestia’s office was still closed, but Harmonia could still hear Celestia and her Mom's voice. 

“But, she is only five. Do you really think she would be ready to be crowned in two years?” Twilight wonders. 

“She seems to be doing a good job so far, besides she's already born into royalty. She doesn't have to be ascended like you were Twilight only crowned.” Celestia explains. 

“I was ascended to an alicorn by learning about friendship and I earned my crown like that. I would rather my daughter have the same ruling. Let her make friends while she is still young.” Twilight explains. 

“I understand your point Twilight. But not everypony follows in the same hoofsteps as their parents-” Celestia was cut off, by a small squeal outside the door. 

“Um… was that you?” Celestia asks Twilight. 

Twilight shook her head. “No.” 

Twilight opens the door only to reveal a flash of raspberry pink magic left behind.

Twilight sighs. “You can go ahead Twilight I’ll have a talk with Harmonia.” Celestia said, as she placed a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder. 

“Thank you, Celestia. I’ll be back later to pick her up.” Twilight said, before walking out the room. 


***


Celestia made her way to the detention room, where Harmonia was reading a book. "I'm sorry Harmonia, but when you are crowned princess you just can’t spread your chaos powers all over the place. You will have to learn how to control it." Celestia said

"Well when I'm crowned that will be the first thing to go." Harmonia said, her tone confident. 

"Not while I'm still around!" Celestia said. 

"Well in that case I'll go start a democracy with Great Aunt Luna." Harmonia said, with a small grin. 

"Nice try, but your not crowned yet." Celestia said, she smirks at Harmonia. 

Harmonia closes her book. "But I will be soon." she said, looking at Celestia. 

"But you aren't yet. And at the rate you're going you are shaping up to be a pretty poor princess indeed!" Celestia said, her tone kindly strict.  

Excuse me, but that's not the way I see it!" Harmonia said, gazing at her mother's past mentor and ruler of all of Equestria. 


***


Discord paced up and down with his arms around his back. Twilight and Harmonia were supposed to be back five minutes ago. Usually around this time, Harmonia would have returned from school and given him a big hug while Twilight gave him a kiss. Discord ears perked up as he heard the castle door open. He frowned as he saw Starlight and Tempest appearing behind it, carrying saddlebags on their backs. 

“Hi Discord! I got everything on Twilight’s list!” Starlight said. 

“Discord? Have you seen Twilight and your daughter?” Tempest asks. 

“No. They were supposed to be here five minutes ago. I wonder what’s keeping them?” Discord replied, tapping Tempest’s broken horn. 

“Come on Discord! Five minutes! It’s not like Harmonia got into a fight at school!” Starlight asked, laughing. The doors opened to see Twilight and Harmonia. Harmonia teleported up to her room. Twilight sighed as she closed the door and walked towards her husband, friend and personal guard. 

“So, did Harmonia have a good day at school?” Discord said, puckering up, ready to receive a kiss from Twilight. Twilight put a hoof to Discord’s mouth. 

“Harmonia got into a fight today.” Twilight said, blunty. Starlight, Discord and Tempest gasped. 

“What happened Twi?! Is she hurt?” Starlight asked, worried. 

“She got into a magical duel with another unicorn. My daughter is not hurt, thankfully. But I don’t understand why she keeps getting into fights! Have I done anything to make her do this? I don’t understand.” Twilight groaned, slumping to the ground. 

“I think one of us could go and comfort Harmonia?” Tempest said, her tone blunt. 

“Maybe I should go. She can help me prepare dinner while we talk. I can convince her to eat my fillyhood dish!” Starlight said happily, teleporting away before anypony responded. Starlight teleported into Harmonia’s room, startling the little being. 

“Aunt Starlight? What are you doing here?” Harmonia asked. Starlight took her lion paw and they both teleported to the kitchen where Harmonia saw different ingredients laid out. Harmonia looked at her aunt in confusion while Starlight giggled. She ignites her magic to make Tempest appear beside her. 

“What? What is going on? Starlight? Harmonia? I don’t understand.” Tempest said, very confused. Starlight, Tempest and Harmonia began to cook Starlight’s fillyhood dish as they talked about. 

“You are going to help us cook! Besides, I've been wanting to try my favorite dish for awhile now and you are going to help us.” Starlight explains placing out the rest of the ingredients. 

Tempest lightly chuckles. “Eh. If you haven't noticed I'm a royal guard not a chief.” Tempest explains. 

“Never hurts to try anything new, right?” Harmonia asks. 

“I guess you're right.” Tempest mumbles, she grabs a pan from the oven, placing it on top of the counter. 

10 minutes later…. 

Smoke surrounded the three, both looking at Tempest who gave a light-hearted chuckle. “I warned you that I wasn't a chief.” Tempest explained. 

Starlight rolled her eyes. Giving Harmonia a bare expression. Starlight sighs. “Well, I guess we better clean this up.” She mutters to the two. 

All three of them were a mess along with the kitchen. They start to grab the cleaning supply from under the sink and begin cleaning, as they were cleaning Starlight asks her niece a series of questions about what happened at school today. 

“....Well I found out that I'm supposed to be crowned in the next two years.” Harmonia explains, as she washes down the countertop. 

“How? I thought a pony only gets crowned when he or she achieves that certain goal in their lives that transforms them into an alicorn.” Tempest wonders. 

“Yes, but Twilight's niece was the first born Alicorn in Equestria.”  Starlight explains. 

“But I thought Great Aunt Luna and Celestia were the first alicorns in Equestria?” Harmonia asks, slightly confused. 

“If you ask me, we are all confused at the moment.” Starlight said, her tone blunt. 

“Oh and I also broke into song!” Harmonia grins. “Would you like to hear it?” She asks her aunt. 

“I'm gonna be the best Princess with-” Harmonia gets cut off by Tempest. 

“I love musicals as much as the next pony, but can we please just get this mess cleaned up.” Tempest said, scrubbing the floor. 

“You know Tempy you are no fun half the time. Besides I was going to sing about my plans after I became crowned.” Harmonia huffs, crossing her paw and claw. 

“I can have tons of fun if I want to.” Tempest said, defensive. 

Starlight giggles at how defensive Tempest was being. “How about you can go outside and play while we clean up this mess.” Starlight suggests. 

“Are you sure?” Harmonia wonders. 

“Of course!” Starlight beams. “Now go have fun.” 


***


Harmonia took it as an opportunity to be free from her “chore”. She teleports herself outside of the castle, where the warm soft breeze of a late May wind blows throw her mane. 

She lays down in the grass, closing her eyes and letting the warm rays of Celestia’s sun soak into her fur. Letting the warmth fill her soul. She felt calm and at peace. 

“Hey watch out!” Shouts a voice. But Harmonia didn't listen, she was still soaking in the rays of Celestia’s sun. 

The figure, crashes into Harmonia, sending them both tumbling down the hill. Harmonia huffs. “Hey! What's the big idea!” She asks. 

“I-I'm so sorry.” The young pegasus colt said. He extend his hoof to help her up. “My mom insistence that I practice my flying, luckily I crashed into you.” He smirks. 

Harmonia blushes. “What's your name?” He asks. 

“Ha-Harmonia.” She stammered. Harmonia gazes at the young colt. He had a Amber orange fur, raspberry pink eyes. His mane was slick back with colors of fire mixed with a tint of deep purple. She took notice that his left wing had a few clips and tears in it. 

“Well Ha-Harmonia.” He snickers a bit. “It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Prism Dash.” Prism said.

“Nice to meet you.” Harmonia said. “So what brings you here? As many times as I have been out here I've never had any visitors fall from the sky.” Harmonia snicks. 

Prism smirks. “Well, my mom was giving me flying lessons until her cutie mark started to glow.” Prism explains. 

“Must be a “Friendship Mission.” Explains Harmonia. 

From the sky Rainbow Dash, was flying over head, looking for Prism. “Prism! Where are you?” Rainbow calls out. 

Prism sighs. “Sorry about her, she is a bit overprotective of me.” Prism chuckles to himself, he was bashful. 

“I'm down here mom!” Prism calls out. 

Rainbow Dash spots them from the sky, she comes down looking at the two.

 “Hey Aunt Rainbow! What are you doing here?” Harmonia wonders. 

“Well the map called your Aunt Fluttershy and I on a mission. So I hope you don't mind if the boys could stay with you for a few hours.” Rainbow said. 

From a distance comes Fluttershy and her son. He was an Earth pony, with pale green fur. His mane was up in a colt bun with the colors of Fluttershy mane and a tinge of orange-red. His expression remains calm. 

“Hey Rainbow Dash! Ready to go on our “Friendship Mission”?” Fluttershy asks. 

“Heck yeah I am!” Rainbow Dash seemed more excited than Fluttershy. Rainbow pumps her hoof in the air. “it's been awhile since we ever went on a Friendship Mission. Just like old times.” Rainbow beams. 

“I feel the same way! I hope Twilight doesn't mind if we drop the boys off.” Fluttershy said. 

“Nah, I'm sure she wouldn't mind.” Rainbow Dash said. “Now come on!” Rainbow shot in Twilight's castle, obviously overly excited about the mission. 


***


Twilight stood at the Friendship Table, looking at Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash cutie mark circling around an area that they have never been to. The door creaks open to reveal the two pegasus. 

“I'm glad you two could make it!” Beams Twilight. 

“So where is this Friendship Mission at?” Rainbow Dash asks, she was obviously excited and eager to get her mission done. 

“Here!” Twilight pointed a hoof to a mediocre sized city. “Baltimare?” Fluttershy questions. 

 Twilight nods. “Why would the map call us there?” Rainbow Dash questions.

“I'm not sure, but whatever the reason is. It picked you two for the job.” Twilight said. 

“Alright, well we better go.” Rainbow Dash said. 

 “Twilight I hope you don't mind, but we brought Meadow Bliss and Prism Dash to play with Harmonia.”  Fluttershy said. 

“Of course I don't.” Twilight said. 

Rainbow Dash smiles. “Well come on, Flutters we better get going.” she said, motioning for Fluttershy to come on. 


***


Outside Meadow Bliss and Prism Breeze was relaxing under Celestia's sun. “So do you guys do anything for fun?” Harmonia asks them. 

Meadow Bliss had his eyes closed, but still responded to Harmonia's question. “Of course! We do.” he said.

“We like to pull pranks ever now and then.” Prism said, his tone nonchalant.  

“Shh!” Meadow Bliss said. 

“Dude, what are you even doing?” Prism said. Noticing that the earth pony was at peace. 

“What does it look like? I'm meditating. You guys should try it sometime.” His tone was mellow and calm. 

“No thanks. I prefer chaos.” Harmonia giggles. 

“So you said you guys like pranks?” Harmonia said, looking at the boys. 

“He does, I don't.” Meadow explains, his eyes still close. 

“Yep! They are awesome! Though I tend to get a little carried away and I get into trouble..” Prism said, laughing nervously. Harmonia shrugged her shoulders and made a chocolate milkshake with whipped cream appear in front of her. She took a large sip from it. 

“How did you do that?” Meadow Bliss asks, his attention now fully aware looking at the draconequus. 

“Oh, well, I have special powers. I can do anything with them!” Harmonia beams. 

“So you're like a genie!” Said another voice. 

“Where did you come from?” Asks Prism. 

He was referring to the young earth pony. She had light pink fur, baby blue eyes, her mane was mixed with periwinkle and dark blue.

Her tone was giddy and full of excitement. “Hi! I'm Confetti Pop!” Confetti said, her grin was wide. 

“You must be new here! And if you're new here that means I've never seen you around here before!” This filly was talking a mile a minute. “So now I give you the  “Welcome To Ponyville Song!” 

Confetti took a gasp of air and launched into her song. “Welcome to Ponyville, Welcome to Ponyville, Welcome to Ponyville and your new! If-” 

Harmonia cuts the filly off. “I’ve been here for five years.” Harmonia explains, her tone blunt. 

“Awe, you cut me off at the best part.” Confetti frowns. 

The group started to laugh, from afar a young Pegasus filly was watching from a distance. 

She softly smiles, before turning to leave. 


***


Meanwhile…. 

Sunset Shimmer’s POV: 

Studded boots pounded the pavement as the cold nipped at her skin. Running, was a small girl, she looked to have the height of 5’0. She was running as fast as her legs could carry her. She had pale tangerine skin and light baby blue eyes. Her hair was in elegant ringlets of midnight indigo, she had two streaks in her hair one of light gold the other streak was vivid crimson. 

“Mom is going to kill me,” Phoenix thought to herself. She made a stop to catch her breath. “Maybe I can weasel my way out of getting into trouble.” She thought to herself. “That seems to always work with Mom.” She lets herself rest for a moment, before walking into the house. 

She composes herself. She took a deep breath before opening the door however her mother beat her to it. 

Her mother did. 

She came face to face with Sunset, her arms crossed over her chest with a furious look on her face. She couldn’t tell if it was from her leaving this time or her father’s fault once again for having another woman over, who wasn’t her mom while she was at work.

Sunset ran up to her daughter and hugged her, almost too tight. “Mom, I can't breathe…” Phoenix choked out. 

Sunset unwraps her arms around her daughter placing them squarely a distance from each other. Sunset lightly grips Phoenix's shoulder blades, looking at her in the eyes. “Do you know how worried I was for you?” Sunset asks, her tone more worried than strict. 

“I’m fine mom, really.” Phoenix said, her voice sounding calm. 

Sunset sighed. “Come on.” She made her way down the steps. 

Phoenix looks at her mom confused. “Wait… where are we going? What about my bags?” she asked. 

You won’t be needing any of that where we are going.” Sunset sofly smiles at her daughter. 

Phoenix on the other hand was confused. “Just trust me.” Sunset softly spoke, she motions her daughter to come. Phoenix silently followed her mother, and didn't bother to question her.  

Sunset takes one final look at her husband, he had passed out in the recliner. Sunset silent shaking her head. “Come on, sweetie.” Sunset whispers to Phoenix. 

Phoenix looks back at her father, tears streaming down. She clutches onto Sunset’s hand tightly. Sunset opens the door, they both walk out into the cool night air. 


***


Sunset and Phoenix remain quiet, they have been walking to God knows where for the past thirty-five minutes. 

Sunset sighs, looking back at her daughter and giving a small smile to her. Phoenix thought for a moment, wondering if this is the best time to bring it up. 

“Mom?” Phoenix asks, her tone was slightly inaudible. 

Sunset walks a bit more, clearly not hearing her daughter the first time. She silently watches as Sunset uses her cell phone. “All six phones, straight to voicemail.” Sunset mumbles to herself. 

Phoenix decides to try again. “Mom?” She asks again. Sunset sticks her phone back in her pocket. 

“Yes?” Sunset asks. 

“Remember earlier when you asked where I was?” Phoenix asks. Sunset nods. “But that doesn’t matter at the moment, sweetie.” Sunset said, softly. 

“Actually it does.” Phoenix thought. She sighs and follows Sunset in tow.  “Mom, what is Equestria?” Phoenix asks, her tone innocent. 

Sunset stops dead in her tracks, rather either deciding to either lie or tell her daughter the truth. “A little white lie wouldn’t hurt at the moment. Would it?” Sunset thought to herself. Besides both have been through so much tonight. She doesn’t think her daughter deserves to know the whole truth. Not yet anyways. 

Sunset continues walking to her desire destination. “You remember those old tale I tell you at bedtime?” She asks. 

“Mhm.” Phoenix said. 

“That is what I mean by “Equestria” it’s a magical land filled with friendly ponies and has two sisters who rule the day and night.” Sunset explains. 

Phoenix stops. “Mom, I’m eleven now. I know those are just fairytales- er ponytales- in your case.” 

Sunset stops, she turns around this time looking at her daughter. “Mom, I want the truth.” Phoenix said, her tone blunt. 

Sunset was speechless. “Phoenix, what are you talking about?” she asks. 

“You want to know where I have been these past few months?” Phoenix asks. Sunset was silent. “I went to that place that you said was a “fantasy” Equestria. I stay there whenever you and dad get into one of those huge fights. Is it because of me, why you guys fight all the time?” Tears prick at the ends of Phoenix’s cyan baby blue eyes. 

“Phoenix! Of course not! You know how your dad is especially with the bring home different women while I’m at work. This isn’t your fault.” Sunset hugs her daughter. 

The wind blowing both of their hair. Phoenix looks up at her mother. “Come on, I think it’s time that you know the truth.” Sunset said. 


*


The pair make their way to a bench that was nearby Canterlot High School. They were surrounded by a small flower garden and some shrubs and bushes, the moonlight being their only source of light casting down on the ground making light. 

Sunset sits Phoenix into her lap. “Your right, Phoenix. I'm not from here. I’m from that fairy tale land called Equestria. The sun princess I keep telling you about her name is actually Princess Celestia-” 

“But why isn’t she a Queen?” Phoenix questions. 

“Hehe, um Queens are bad in that world.” Sunset said, giving a grim expression to her daughter. 

Phoenix stays quite to let her mom finish. “Anyways, your mom did a very bad thing in her past. I grew bitter and jealous and was mean to everyone-” 

“But you’re not like that now.” Phoenix said, smiling. 

“You’re right, now please quit interrupting mommy’s story.” Sunset scolds.

Phoenix sighs, but Sunset continues. “I saw myself as a Princess became jealous and resentful and because of those bitter emotions I fled here to Canterlot City, where here I learned the key factors of friendship. It took awhile to learn, but it became easy after a while.” Sunset explains. 

“Will we ever come back here?” Phoenix asks. 

Sunset sighs. “Maybe one day.” She mumbles. 

“Now before we go I have some questions for you.” Sunset said, booping the tip of her daughter’s nose with her finger. 

Phoenix giggles. 

“You’re one smart cookie. How did you figure out I was from Equestria?” Sunset questions, a smug look plays on her face. 

Phoenix bit her bottom lip. “I may have read your diary.” She casts her eyes to the ground. She knew her mother was disappointed that she went through her personal stuff, but she hated secrets. 

Sunset’s eyebrows furrow slightly. “You went through my journal without my permission?” Sunset asks, her voice slightly stern. “Phoenix you know that is private property and off limits even to you.” 

“I know mom… it’s just I hate secrets and being left in the dark. I’m sorry though and I promise to never do it again.” Phoenix pleads, hoping that her mother forgives her. 

Sunset sighs. “I guess it’s fine, but next time ask before snooping around in someone stuff it is not very nice and can get you in a heap of trouble.” She warns her daughter.  

Phoenix nods. “Okay I promise.” She said. 

Phoenix stays silent for a moment before another question came to her mind. “Who’s Princess Twilight Sparkle?” Phoenix asks, curiosity really has the best of this child tonight. 

“You sure do have a lot of questions tonight, huh? She is one of my old best friends. And she is the one who helped me become the person-er pony- I am today! Other than, she lives in Equestria.” 

“But what about Aunt Twilight?” Phoenix asks, referring to her aunt. 

Sunset rubs the back of her neck. “Yeah, those are two totally different people. And your Aunt Twilight turned into a demon who tried to form a rift between two worlds bent on dark magic.” She gives an quirky smile to her daughter. 

Phoenix eyes went wide. “But that’s all in the past.” Sunset said, she gave a light giggle. Sunset  then pulls out her phone checking the time it was going on 11:33 p.m. and not a single call or even message from her friends. 

Phoenix yawns, rubbing her eyes. Sunset picks her up and place her on the left side of her hip. “You ready to go?” She asks, softly. Phoenix nods, tiredly. Sunset takes a deep breath, making her way over to the Canterlot High statue. The base of the statue ripples giving it a magical glowing effect and the two pass through it. 

Leaving Canterlot City behind them. 
> Chapter 10: Who's Afraid Of A Little Adventure
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Harmonia, being the adventurous young draconequus she was, makes her way through Everfree Forest. She was making her way to Froggy Bottom Bog. The eerie atmosphere, making the young draconequus unaware of the danger that lurks within forest. 

Harmonia continues to plays along the path that her mother told Zecora to mark for her, which held tiny colorful speckles of stones. Harmonia teeters along a small fallen log across. She  looks up and just from afar heald Froggy Bottom Bog, Harmonia saw it within her field of vision. 

Harmonia being a tad clumsy, accidentally trips over the log. She begins to tumble down the cliff, but her tumbling comes to a stop once after she bumps into somepony, who looked to be around her age. 

Harmonia opens her eyes to come face to face with a creature she has never seen before. 

The creature then looks at Harmonia, her eyes narrowed at her. She looked like she was ready to pounce her. 

Harmonia backs away, slightly timid by her appearance. “What are you doing here, Equestrianer. Who are you?” she sneers, demanding answers from the draconequus. 

Harmonia moves to the left, the creature follows. She tries to move to the right, once again the creature follows. 

The creature stops, and looks at the draconequus, confused by her movements. “What are you doing?” She asks. 

“My daddy says to never turn your back on a changeling.” Harmonia sneers.

The changeling smirks at her. “Do you always do what daddy says?” The changeling asks. 

Harmonia’s eyebrows were furrowed. “No!” she scoffs. 

The changeling saw how amusing it was to tick off the draconequus, so she pressed further. “Betcha do! I bet your daddy’s little girl.” She laughs. 

Harmonia remains silent, her ears flat. The changeling then turns to make her way to Froggy Bottom Bog, the exact same place where Harmonia was heading. “A changeling doesn't need anypony. I can take care of myself.” Harmonia’s friendly interest peeks within this changeling, she starts to follow behind her. 

Like her mother, Harmonia begins to ask questions. “Really?” Harmonia asks. 

Without watching, Harmonia steps on a twig which snaps. Alerting a pack of timberwolves. “Cool!” Harmonia said, her tone rather exciting. 

The changeling smiles at her, but her smile quickly falters into a frown especially one of fear. Her eyes went wide as she started to scream at Harmonia, who was in return- was unaware that a Timberwolf with its mouth open, hovering above her. 

Harmonia quickly turns to see what the changeling was screaming about, which what she saw made Harmonia scream as well. “Run!” She yells at the changeling. 

Without hesitation, the changeling and Harmonia runs through the forest. The timberwolf howling for more to come after the two. 

Harmonia was about to leap to a nearby branch, as the changeling follows after. But she quickly retreats when she sees that a timberwolf leaps out in front of them. 

“This way!” Harmonia said, leading the two manage to dodge the timberwolf. 

The timberwolf growls and howls signaling more to follow it. 

“You are a changeling! Right? Can’t you change?!” Harmonia asks, her tone laced with fear.   

“Yes! But I haven’t fully mastered my powers yet! Plus I can’t exactly change when I have a powerful emotion of fear.” The changeling explains.

Both were running for their lives, they noticed that Zecora's hut was just in Harmonia's field of  vision. Harmonia groans. "Come on! Zecora's hut is just ahead!" Harmonia said, running towards the zebra’s hut. 

Harmonia teleports both, herself and the changeling inside. Zecora wasn't at home, she must have been out in town grabbing ingredients for her potions. 

Or she was wrong, the zebra looks at the two. Their backs pressed against Zecora's door, their hearts pounding. 

"What seems to have your nerves in a jumble and fright? Don't you know it's dangerous out here in this forest of fright?" The zebra asks. 

Harmonia was out of breath. “Zecora! There are Timberwolves after us. Please you have to-” 

The changeling screaming cuts Harmonia off, as the Timberwolf pounds against the door, tempting to knock it down. 

After the third attempt, the Timberwolf succeeded. It's teeth bared, growling and eyeing the two. 

Harmonia notices the backdoor for Zecora's hut. “Sorry about this Zecora.” Harmonia said, looking apologetic at the zebra. 

She knocks over Zecora brew, sending the contents spilling onto the floor and towards the timberwolf. 

The timberwolf corals in fear, Harmonia then uses her magic to blast the timberwolf to pieces. 

“Sorry once again about your potion Zecora. Come on! Let's go!” Harmonia said, telling the changeling to come on. 

The changeling follows Harmonia out the back of Zecora's hut. 

Sure enough the duo was met once again by more Timberwolves. “Oh come on! How many more are there of you muts!” Harmonia growls, slightly annoyed. 

She blasts a few of the timberwolves with her magic, before taking off. 


Once again, they both ran for their lives. Froggy Bottom Bog was just in their field of vision. “Froggy Bottom Bog is just ahead! Maybe I can teleport us there!” Harmonia explains. 

In a flash the draconequus teleports the two into the muddy muds of Froggy Bottom Bog. Harmonia and the changeling pants. “That was close!” Harmonia said. 

“Yeah…” The changeling said, softly smiling at her. 

They slowly start to rise from the mud, both screaming at how high they were. The two were unaware that they were stand on top of a three-headed hydra. The hydra snaps its jaws at the changeling, who hoovers above it to avoid being lunch.  

Harmonia dives for a nearby branch, hanging onto it for dear life. The changeling on the other leaves Harmonia. “H-Hey! What about me?” Harmonia said, her tone of voice shaking with fear. 

The changeling leaps through the mud. “I’ll distract it! Run!” The changeling shouts. 

The changeling runs through the mud, and slips falling face first. 

Harmonia, claws at the hydra who turns and narrows its head at the changeling. The hydra stops for Harmonia and stalks its way towards the young changeling. “Hey! Look out!” Harmonia yells.    

The hydra stalks it way over to the changeling. Who scurries and backs into a head tree limb. Its jaws open, ready to bite. 

Harmonia blasts the hydra from behind, before pouncing on it snapping its jaws shut. “Move it!” Harmonia said, her tone worried. She watched as the changeling climbs up the tree branch, she follows behind. The hydra snaps at her, nearly missing her tail. 

The changeling leaps to safety, which was on the cliff. Harmonia on the other hand was still clinging onto the branch as the hydra snaps at the branch causing it to shake. “Woah!” Harmonia said, clingling it a little tighter. 

“You are going to have to jump!” The changeling shouts. 

Harmonia lets go of the branch and leaps, making it to safety.

Harmonia and the changeling pants. They could hear the roar of the hydra, they both look over the cliffs edge to the that the hydra was making it way back to its home. 

“I did it!” Harmonia whispers her tone rather proud of herself. She pauses for a second to realize what she had it. “Ha! I did it!” She repeats again, her tone becoming boastful. 

She sticks out her tongue at the hydra making a strange noise with it. The changeling smirks at the draconequus before looking down at the hydra. “Ha!” The changeling sasses, before turning to leave.   


***


Sweet Celestia! Did you see the size of those teeth?” Harmonia asks the changeling. “It was like rawr! Rawr! Rawr!” Harmonia giggles, making her attempt to sound like a hydra, but she only winded up sounding adorable. 

The changeling smiles at her. “We barely escaped with our lives… that wasthrilling.” Harmonia grins, her expression rather exciting. 

From afar, a mysterious shadow was watching their every move. Their eyes glowed.  

“You know? We would make such a great team! You were really brave!” Harmonia said, her tone still overly excited.

The changeling looks at Harmonia, as if she had too much cotton candy and chocolate milk. 

“Well, you were pretty brave too! Besides, I would probably not would even have made it out alive if it wasn’t for your help. My name is Amaris!” The changeling, Amaris said. 

“Nice to meet you! My name is Harmonia, but my friends call me Harmony.” Harmonia explains. 

The shadow lingers, sneering at Harmonia and Amaris. 

It was about to lunge at the two, before a familiar voice started to make it think twice. 

“There you two are! You had us worried sick!” Twilight said, the Mane 5 along with Discord and Princess Luna follows.

 “How did you even know we were out here?” Harmonia asks. 

“You can thank your Aunt Pinkie Pie and her Pinkie Senses.” Discord said, pointing his claw over to the pink mare. 

“It’s a good thing too, because I would hate it if something really bad happened to you two. But thanks to my Pinkie Sense you are a-okay.” Pinkie beams. 

“Your father is Discord?” Amaris mutters to the draconequus. 

“Your mother is Princess Luna?” Harmonia mutters back. 

“What are you two out here? Don’t you know it's dangerous?” Luna asks. 

 “I told you to stay close to Zecora’s hut! Not out here in Boggy Bottom Bog.” Discord said, his tone rather strict toward Harmonia.  

Harmonia flinched at her father’s rather strict tone. “At least you girls are both safe, now come on. Let’s go home.” Twilight said, motioning for her daughter to come on. 

“Thank you once again for helping us, Twilight.” Luna said. 

“You are ever so welcome Princess.” Twilight said, softly smiling. 

She looks down at her daughter, who was looking at Discord with remorse. “Come on, sweetheart. Let’s head home.” Twilight said, brushing her daughter’s hair out of her eyes. 


***


The walk back to Twilight’s castle was fairly far. Harmonia stays inches behind Discord. The others were ahead, and Twilight was just a few feet in front of Discord. 

Twilight turns to look at Discord. “Dissy?” Twilight asks, her tone soft. 

Discord clears his throat. Twilight took it as a sign that everything would hopefully be okay. She gives a soft smile before heading on down the trail back to her castle. 

Discord looks at a whimpering young draconequus. He snaps his claws and places her on a nearby rock. Harmonia looks at her father with a wide apologetic toothy grin, but it quickly falters when she notices how crossed he was at her. 

“Harmonia? What did you think you were doing? You could have been killed today.” Discord said, speaking to her in a rather strict way.   

“But daddy, I… I didn’t mean to diso-” Harmonia said, ready to state her defense, but Discord cuts her off. 

“I’m telling you this because I love you. I don’t want to see anything bad happen to you- or worse lose you.” Discord explains. 

Harmonia hangs her head, knowing that she has disappointed two of the most caring people in all of Equestria. “I know.” she said, her tone full of sorrow. 

“I-If something happened to you I wouldn’t know what I’d do without you fuzzball.” Discord said, ruffling his daughter’s mane. 

Discord sighs. “One day, we won’t be here. And as future princess of chaos and Friendship your mother and I will need you to carry on in our place.” Discord said. 

Harmonia huffs. “I know, I know. You tell me this a thousand times.” she said, her paws crossed. 

“Exactly. And you need to be careful.” Discord said. 

“But what if I don’t want to be next in line, I mean do I really have to take mommy and your throne?” Harmonia asks. 

Discord gawks at the young draconequus, speechless. “You actually have to. You are the only child after all.” Discord explains. 

Harmonia huffs, her paws folded. Discord sighs. “But, that's like saying you don't want to be a draconequus. It's in your blood, as I am.” Discord said, his tone softens. 

“We are a part of each other.” Discord said. 

“Hmph!” Harmonia said, her tiny paws remained crossed over her chest, her fuzzy face held a “stuck up Canterlot pony” look. 

Discord smirks at his daughter, and gently pushes her down from the rock. 

“Oof!” Harmonia said, she landed in an awkward position. Her mane, covering her vision, she moves her mane to catch a glimpse of Discord smiling at her, trying his best not to laugh. 

"We're always going to be best friends, right Daddy?' Harmonia asked, as she softly smiles back. She hugs Discord, embracing the hug for a mere second. 

Discord looks at her. "Of course we will be now. Come on kiddo, let's head home." Discord said, 

Harmonia and Discord made it back to Twilight's castle. Discord smiled at the castle before looking down at his daughter, who gave a look of confusion. 

Discord softly smiles at her. “As long as you live here, it's who you are. You'll understand someday.” Discord softly spoke to her. 

He then looks back once more before returning inside, leaving Harmonia alone. She stares blankly at the castle before her, she turns around noticing the town and her future citizens before her. The afternoon setting sun casting a soft glow across the town, making everything look quite and at peace like harmony was magical there. 

Harmonia softly smiles, she then turns to head inside for the rest of the night. 


***


Harmonia laid snug in her covers reading one of her books that her Aunt Rainbow Dash let her borrow which was Daring Do and The Quest for The Sapphire Statue. She was on a specific chapter when she heard a knock on the door. 

 The door creaks open to reveal Twilight and Discord. 

“Harmonia.” Discord said, his tone strict. 

“Harmonia, I am very disappointed in you!” He said, his voice strict. 

“I know I’m probably grounded for disobeying your rules.” Harmonia mutters, shutting her book. 

“That you are.” Discord said, his tone deadpanned but sterned. 

Harmonia sighs. “How long am I grounded for?” she asked. 

‘You are grounded…. For… till college.” Discord said. 

“For til college?!” Harmonia asked, slightly bewildered. 

“FOR TIL COLLEGE!” Discord said. 

“Discord!” Twilight scolds. 

Twilight then looks at Harmonia, even though she was disappointed in her child she still was concerned for her well-being and safety, they both were.

“Harmonia, why didn’t you tell somepony where you were going?” Twilight asked, concerned. 

“To be fair, nopony asked.” Harmonia said, her tone blunt. 

“Fuzzball!” Discord scolded.

 “What?! They didn’t!” Harmonia said, her tone defensive. 

“You spilled Zecora’s brew.” Twilight said. 

“Because I was trying to get away from the timber wolves, and I told her I was sorry before I spilled it.” Harmonia explains. 

“I expect a real apology from you tomorrow, missy.” Twilight said. 

“Fine.” Harmonia mutters. 

Twilight sighs, it was now Discord’s turn to speak. “Don’t you understand Harmony? We could have lost you today! You could have been killed!” Discord said, his voice stern. 

“But I didn’t. Also you and mom can -” Harmonia said, but Twilight shuts her daughter up quickly. 

“No not anytime soon. Besides, you're enough to make three of you.” Twilight said. 

Harmonia giggles. 

“Now hold on dear, maybe Fuzzball here may have a --” Discord said. 

“Discord! No.” Twilight scolds. 

Discord rolled his eyes, his paw and claw crossed while he drummed his paw on his shoulder. 

“Sweetie, you're eight years old, you know better than to wonder off like that especially in the Everfree Forest alone! Like your father said you could have been killed and what’s worse you put Luna’s daughter in danger as well. ” Twilight said her tone was strict.  

“I know I was just trying to prove that I was brave like you guys.” Harmonia sniffles, her voice slightly cracked. 

“Harmonia, we’re only brave when we have to be like when Equestria is in danger. That's your mother’s call to be brave and protect all of Equestria. But being brave doesn't mean you go looking for trouble to get into.”  Discord explains. 

“He’s right.” Twilight said, her tone soft. 

“But, you’re not scared of anything. And everypony’s have fears don’t they?” Harmonia asked. 

“Yes, everypony has fears, and our greatest fear almost came true.” Twilight explains. 

“Almost?” Harmonia questions. 

“Yes, we thought we could have lost you, today.” Discord said. 

“Wow, so even the Lord Chaos can get scared sometimes too, huh?” Harmonia asked, slightly smiling. 

“Mhm.” Discord said. 

“But you know what?” Harmonia said. 

“What?” Discord asked. 

“I think those Timber wolves and hydra were more scared of me. You should have seen me.”  Harmonia said, smiling lightly. 

Discord laughs. “That’s my girl.” he said. 

“Dad, can I ask you something?” Harmonia asked. 

“You sound like your mother when she comes in with loads of questions.” Discord said.

“Hey!” Twilight said, defensive. 

“I’m kidding dear, sort of.” Discord said.

Twilight playfully rolled her eyes. “Daddy, we’re always going to be best friends right?” Harmonia asked. 

“Of course.” Discord said softly. 

“Then that’s all I need to know.” Harmonia said. 

“Hey what about me?” Twilight asked. 

“Of course you too mom.” Harmonia said, light smiling, before turning over and going to sleep. 

“Goodnight, sweetie.” Twilight said, as she turned out the light, leaving Harmonia to sleep peacefully. 

Twilight and Discord watched from the doorway, softly smiling to themselves. “You know we did a pretty good raising her so far, huh?” Discord mutters. 

“We did, didn’t we?” Twilight said, softly smiling. 

Discord and Twilight both watched for a moment, being present and content in the moment. 

“...... so about that second child.” Discord asked a playful look on his face. 

Twilight’s eyes widened. “Goodnight, Discord.” She mutters before walking away.


***


There was a knock on the castle door revealing Zecora who received a letter by Twilight’s request. 

“Thank you for stopping by Zecora. I believe a certain child of mine owes you a sincere apology.” Twilight said, going into the main foyer of her castle where Harmonia stood, her small paw scuffles the tile flooring. 

“Do you have something to say to Zecora?” Twilight asked, her eyebrow arched looking at her daughter. 

Harmonia sighs. “I’m really and truly sorry for spilling your potion or brew yesterday. I was only trying to get away from the timberwolves. If you want, I can come help you make a new batch later on.” She said. 

“That’s quite alright little one for I accept your apology. For you are still young, learning and evolving. Yes, it is true I was upset when you knocked over my brew. But hearing this apology from the heart is astonishing.” Zecora said, smiling at Harmonia. 

Harmonia looks at Zecora with a confused expression. “Does that mean all is forgiven or?” 

“You’ll have to forgive my words, for I speak in the rhymes of my native and nothing more.” Zecora said, lightly chuckling. 

 “It’s just in her strange way of saying that she forgives you Fuzzball.” Discord said grinning, which earns a disappointing glare from Twilight and Zecora. 

Zecora then turns to Twilight. “The apology was sincere and true I must say, but for now I can not overstay.” She said. 

“Of course we understand.” Twilight said smiling. 

“Do we tho?” Discord mutters, which earns a light giggle from Harmonia. 

Twilight overhears and gives them a side glare, but quickly turns her attention back to Zecora. 

“Goodbye my dear friends for I will see you all real soon, but little one? Here's some advice: don't go looking for trouble or running into timber wolves at night.” She winks at Harmonia before taking her leave. 

The door shuts and Harmonia looks at her mother. “Can we go to the park now? Please.” 

“Yeah please.” Discord said, his eyes wide and pleading. 

“I thought you said she was grounded and in your words: for til college?”  Twilight smirks. 

“Who cares when there’s a park to cause chaos in?!” Discord said, his tone excited. 

Twilight laughs. “Alright , alright I guess since you apologize sincerely to Zecora we can go.” Twilight said smiling. 

“Yay! Come on daddy let’s go!” Harmonia beamed. 


***


Celestia's afternoon sun shines brightly on the green grass, the wind blowing softly through the trees. Discord, Twilight and Harmonia were having a family day out. Twilight sighed as the cool breeze flew on her face and mane. She looked around to see ponies with their sons and daughters playing together. 

Harmonia chases a tiny Peacock who is screaming for her life. 

Harmonia giggles at the toying of this tiny pony. “You're sooo cute!” Harmonia said, still playing with her “toy”. 

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! PLEASE!! GET AWAY FROM ME!! PLEASEEE!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Peacock screams, her voice tiny and squeaky. 

Discord laughs at what their daughter was doing. “Honey, you have to see what Harmonia is doing.” He said, still laughing. Twilight follows her husband's gaze, instead of laughing she gasps and rushes over to Harmonia. She places a firm hoof on Harmonia’s shoulder, giving her a dark glare. Harmonia groans loudly and poofs the little pony back to her original size. 

“Gahh! Thank you Princess Twilight! I thought I was going to be dinner!” Peacock said, stroking her yellow mane. 

“You’re welcome Miss. My daughter here has a bit of trouble controlling her magic. I promise that it won’t happen again.” Twilight said with an apologetic smile.

 Peacock bowed and walked away from the princess. 

Twilight turned to her daughter. “Harmonia, what did we say about using your magic on other ponies?” Twilight scolds. 

“I'm sorry, mommy. It won't happen again I promise.” Harmonia gives Twilight her sweetest smile ever. 

Twilight nods and returns back to her bench which was under a tree with Discord. 

Harmonia scans the playground looking for somepony to play with. She lays eyes upon a sweet pegasus, she had apricot fur and her mane and tail were mediocre sized and curled with the shades of burnt amber orange with teal and blue streaks, her mane being short, half down and half up, her tail was the same length as her mane except it had a curl at the end. 

Harmonia thought to herself. “She looks rather friendly, but I rather not bother, she looks busy.” 


***


From afar sat a regal young unicorn stallion, he had lavender eyes, a pale frost blue coat, his mane was slick back with colors of frost white, pale blue and light yellow. 

He was about the age of Harmonia, if not by 5 years. 

He was sitting under a shade tree, watching others ponies run and play. Wishing he could be doing the same thing, however his guards wouldn't let him even step hoof on the grass. His family may be royalty, but he was nothing like his parents or sister.

“Can I at least go and play with somepony my age? Sitting here and observing others is boring.” The young stallion complained. 

“Prince Illusion, you know your father does not want you to associate with commenders.” The guard explains, his tone uptight. 

“If it is anyone to blame. It's your father's rules not ours.” Apologizes the other guard. 

Illusion rolls his eyes. “I've got to find a way to get this goons off of my back.” He thought to himself.  

Then, an idea came to his head. “Say, I'm a bit famished at the moment. Can you both go to the Ponyville market to pick up some apples?” Illusion asks.

“Sir, those apples are only grown on a farm called Sweet Apple Acres. Do you really expect us to go all the way there for just a few apples from a peasant?” Questions the first guard, his eyebrows raised.

“Yes, and if you don't then I will just tell Dad about the extra bits you two secretly stashed just to get extra cider on that same peasants farm four weeks ago.” Illusion smirks. 

The guards eyes widen. “Right away your highness.” They said in unison. 

Illusion watched as they flew off before turning his attention back to the semi-crowded park. “Now's my chance.” He thought to himself. 

He steps off of his “royal” blanket and steps hoof first into the grass. He grins, looking forward at the other ponies. Excitement was shown through his teeth with a gleam in his eyes. 

He had a feeling that today was going to be perfect. 

Or so he thought. 

A bright raspberry pink orb, shot out of nowhere wizzes pass him.

 Illusion ducks. “Where did that come from.” He thinks to himself.

He scans the crowd, targeting his mysterious suspect. “Hey! Watch where you are aiming! Are you-” He shouts, but quickly stops when he sees who it was. 

A tiny young draconequus quickly runs up to him, an apologetic expression on her face. “I am so sorry.” Harmonia squeaks. 

“Well hello there.” Illusion’s tone went from slightly stunned and strearn to charming. 

Harmonia heart race quickened and her cheeks held a hint of pink to it. “Come on Harmonia say something….” She thought to herself. 

“I-um-ah-” Harmonia stutters, trying her best to form some sentences to say to the beautiful young stallion. 

Illusion chuckles. “I'm Illusion. Prince Illusion that is.” He gives her his hoof to shake, but Harmonia stares at it wondering if she should touch him or not. 

“Well don't be rude.” Her thought argues with her, Harmonia shakes his hoof. “What's your name?” He asks. 

“Harmony-” Harmonia spills out.

 “Way to go! You just told him your nickname.” Harmonia thought.

“But only my friends-” Harmonia said, but was quickly cut off. 

Illusion lightly chuckles. Harmonia gave him a curious look. “My apologies for my laughter, but it was not at you. There's just something unique about you.” He gives Harmonia a lopsided grin. 

“I hope that's a good thing.” Harmonia mutters. 

Illusion waves a dismissive hoof. “Oh believe me, it is.” he said, his tone nonchalant. 

“So, you said you’re a Prince? I've never heard of anypony new being born into royalty.” Harmonia questions. 

“And that's because you haven't. I was born before my sister, with my father, is classified as the Duke.” Illusion explains. 

Harmonia made adoring eyes at the young prince. She did not hear or even see her mother walk up towards her. “Sweetie, it's time to go.” Twilight said, her tone soft. 

She didn't notice the starstruck look her daughter had on her face. “Umm Harmony, sweetie.” Twilight looked to where her daughter was gazing at. 

“Oh, hello! I didn't see you there.” Twilight said, referring to the handsome young unicorn stallion. 

 “I’m-” Twilight was about to introduce herself, but the stallion cut her off. 

“Princess Twilight Sparkle. Ah, yes my mother has told me so much about you.” Illusion said, extending his hoof for her to shake. 

Twilight shook his hoof then looked back down at her daughter; she giggled and patted her daughter’s mane. Harmonia looked at her mother in confusion. 

“Looks like some pony has a bit of a crush” Twilight teases. Harmonia looked at her mother, confused and shocked. 

“WHAT?! NO! I DO NOT! WHY WOULD I HAVE A CRUSH ON ILLUSION?!” Harmonia blurted, her face turning red from embarrassment. 

Twilight giggles. “Alright, then you won't mind if I invite Illusion and his family over for dinner at the castle tonight?” A sly smirk spreads onto Twilight's lips. 

Harmonia stayed silent as every possible chaotic scenario was running through her mind. She was mentally having a freakout in her own head. Illusion smiled and walked up to Harmonia.  

“I think that is a great idea Princess Twilight! I will tell my mother and father about this, right away! I’m sure that they would love to have dinner with you and your family!” IIlusion said, his eyes sparkling. 

“Right then. Please come to my castle at 7pm tomorrow tonight.” Twilight said. 

“Of course!” IIIusion said, he gave a small smile to Harmonia as she blushed. 

“Come on sweetie, I guess we better go home and prepare for tomorrow.” Twilight turns to leave. Harmonia nodded and turned towards IIIusion, scratching her lion's paw. 

“Um.. so, I guess I will see you tomorrow tonight then?” Harmonia said, softly. 

“Yes! It was a pleasure meeting you Harmony.” Illusion winks at her as he takes his hoof into hers and gently shook it. Harmonia blushed wildly as IIIusion walked away from her. Once IIIusion was out of her sight, she let out a happy squeal and ran to her mother. 
> Chapter 11: Royal Dinner Dates & Chaotic Dates
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trixie POV: 

Canterlot is a bustling city filled with high society ponies, each holding a specific status within the city.

Ponies walk the streets of Canterlot, but inside the west wing of the Canterlot castle holds the royal family of four: Prince Blueblood, Trixie Lunamoon, their younger daughter Mystic and their oldest son by 3 years, Illusion. 

“Mother, Father, little sister. The Princess gives us personal invitations to have dinner tonight at her castle.” Illusion announces. 

The parents stop what they are doing and look at their son. Mystic was the first to speak up. 

“Why do we have to go there?” Mystic complains. 

“Because it's a royal invite. Besides you never turn down an invitation from royalty.” Trixie explains to her daughter. 

Mystic grimace, her muzzle scrunched slightly. “But it's in Ponyville, why is it there?” Whines Duke Blueblood. 

Trixie rolls her eyes. “I swear you two are just alike.” She complains to the two. 

“Besides, I finally get to see Starlight again. I haven't seen her in a while.” Trixie mutters slightly, but still loud enough for them to hear. 

“You wish to see her? But she's just a regular old unicorn. She doesn't live up to our standards.” Prince Blueblood said, his tone sounding rather snarky and uptight than normal. 

Trixie turns around giving Blueblood a forcible grin, her teeth slightly clenched as she was talking through her teeth. “Because she is my best friend and all of us are going to that dinner tonight whether you like it or not!” She snaps. 

She plastering a forcible grin falters as she turns to her son. “What time does the dinner start, Illusion?” She asks. 

“Seven pm sharp. The location is Princess Twilight's castle.” Illusion said, remembering what the Princess of Friendship said. 

Blueblood looks at the clock. “It is 4pm now, that gives us two hours to get ready. You know how long it takes us to get ready.” 

“If it's a Twilight's castle then oooo Trixie can't wait to rub my better life in her face.” Trixie thinks to herself, grinning triumphantly. 

“Mother, you aren't going to try and beat Princess Twilight Sparkle again are you?” Illusion asks, his eyebrow raised slightly. His expression deadpanned. 

“What? Of course not!” Trixie scoffed. 

Illusion and Mystic now both gave the same expression. “How long ago has their rivalry been going on?” Mystic mutters to her brother. 

Illusion sighs. “Honestly, I lost count.” He's voice remains monotonous. 

“Come on, can I please do it just this once?” Trixie pleads. 

“Trixie, my dear you know you are better than this. You know this is no way for royalty to act.” Blueblood scolds his wife. 

Trixie rolls her eyes. “Fine.” She grumbles. 

“We will all leave at 5:30 pm. So, children you should be ready before hoof, at least by 5:22pm.” Blueblood announces. 

Blueblood and Trixie both depart from their children leaving Mystic and Illusion alone. 

“You think this dinner will go smoothly tonight?” Mystic asks. 

Illusion chuckles to himself. “Oh I highly doubt that.” 

Illusion and Mystic then parted ways going to get dressed for the dinner at Twilight's tonight. 


***


“Do you think this dress is pretty enough mommy?” Harmonia asks, she had on a pastel lavender dress, the waist associated with tiny pearls and diamonds.

Twilight exams her daughter's choice of fashion. “Sweetie you do know we don't wear clothes, Right?” Twilight stifled a small giggle. 

“Well you were wearing clothes to that one fancy party that gets held once a year.” Harmonia said. 

“It's called the Grand Galloping Gala.” Twilight explains, still giggling. 

“Besides what you are wearing screams “Regal Is My Middle Name.” Harmonia gestures to Twilight's dress. 

Her dress was raspberry pink with gold trimming on the edges. 

Twilight grimace. “You have a point, it may be a bit over the top, but this is a dinner party so pick something a bit classical. Make sure to wear your crown while you're at it.” Twilight said, gesturing to the crown on Harmonia's bedside table. 

“Fine!” Harmonia huffs. 

“I'll be back in a few to check on you.” Twilight then shuts the door. 

“As much as I love Rarity's design and hard work maybe this could be toned down a bit, besides Harmonia right this is a bit too much.” Twilight thought to herself she quickly went to her room to change into something more classical for a royal family dinner. 


***


Harmonia and Twilight both existed for their bedroom. Rarity was right less is more. 

Harmonia had on her crown and her sparkly bow that Rarity gave her for her 5th birthday a couple of months back. She even decided to wear a few pieces of jewelry. Her mane was done in a fancy French braid on the side. 

Twilight mane was in an elegant updo, her gold crown sitting upon her mane. She changed from a regal look to something more sophisticated and relaxing. It was a lavender dress with white pearls and white  diamonds around the waist. 

“Hey wasn't I going to wear that mommy?” Harmonia asks. 

“Technically it's mine in the first place, you just took it out of my closest without my permission.” Twilight scolds. 

Harmonia's face reddens slightly from embarrassment. “I guess I should have told you.” Harmonia mumbles.

“It's fine let's go see what your daddy is doing.” Twilight said. 

Twilight and Harmonia walk down the hallway to find Discord, but stop when they notice something off about the interior of the castle. “Mommy? Is it just me or have you always had the hallway this bouncy?” 

Twilight stops climbing the stairs and looks at her surroundings. It was not the hallway that they always enter, it was more of a bouncy hallway floor. “Discord!” Twilight yells. 

Discord appears in a flash. “Yes my dear?” He asks his tone innocently. 

“Why is the hallway floor made into a bouncy house floor?” Twilight wonders. Her and Harmonia continue to bounce. 

“Why? So it will be fun for our guests.” Discord chuckles as he watches his wife and daughter bounce. 

“Daddy, I don't think the royal family would want something like this at a dinner party.” Harmonia explains. 

“But I thought you loved bouncy hallways?” Discord asks. 

“I do, but for our guests… Maybe no….” Harmonia mutters. 

Discord looks at his daughter wondering what has gotten into her. He then poofs the floor back to normal leaving the two to hit the ground with a thud. “Ouch!” They both said in unison. 

He then poofs the three into the dining room of Twilight's castle. 

“Harmonia, what gives? You love pulling pranks on our guests.” Discord said, his tone sounding slightly offended and hurt. 

“I still do it, can we be a normal family for one night? Please?” Harmonia begs. 

Discord and Twilight both looked at each other confused by what their daughter was requesting. 

"They're normal ponies like mom, daddy. They aren't like me and you." Harmonia explains. 

"You mean you want to have a boring evening tonight with no chaos?!" Discord asked, slightly shocked by his daughter's normal request. 

"It's--" Harmonia said, but the knock on the castle door as Twilight quickly gallops to the door and answers it. 

"Please..." Harmonia said, her eyes pleading. 

Discord sighs. "Fine, only for this one night. Got it." he said. 

Harmonia nods and the two went to join Twilight in the main foyer. 


***


“Good evening! We are so pleased to have your wonderful family at our lovely home.” Twilight greets the royal family. 

Twilight's calm expression is quickly replaced with one of distasted. “Trixie?!” Her iris shrunk to the size of dimes. 

Trixie gives her a smug smile. “Right you are your highness.” she announces. 



***



Illusion gave a small fake cough and a stern look. “And thank you for hosting this wonderful dinner!” Trixie said, plastering a fake smile upon her face.

Twilight steps aside to let the royal family through. “Well this is going to be one very eventful night.” Twilight thought to herself. 

She sighed as she made her way to the kitchen. 

Trixie and Starlight greeted each other as they wrapped hooves around each others necks. 

“Trixie it's so great to see you.” Starlight said. 

“You too! It's been forever! We have seriously got to stop letting time slip away from us. So how are you enjoying high society life?” Starlight wonders her voice full of excitement. 

“Oh it's just wonderful!” Trixie beams. She grins at her best friend, however Starlight could tell there was something off with her best friend. 

“Trix? Are you okay?” Starlight wonders, clearly worried for her best friend.

“Of course I'm fine! Never better!” She beams. 

Starlight looks at Trixie and a bored expression mounts her face. “Trixie, I can tell when something is bothering you. You know you can tell me.” Said Starlight, she places a hoof on Trixie's back. 

Trixie bit her bottom lip, her eyes gazing at Twilight’s floor. “Can we talk about this later?” She asks, her voice sounding small and inaudible. 

Starlight raises an eyebrow. “Um… sure?” Starlight's tone was laced with curiosity and worrying for her friend. 

Trixie and Starlight turn back to the others in the room and join them. 

“Thank you so much for having us over your highness.” Trixie said, plastering another fake smile in her direction.

“Oh you are very welcome!” Twilight smiles back, her voice a bit too cheery. 

“Why do I sense tension in the room between you two?” Tempest wonders. 

Twilight scoffs. “What? There's no tension, just two friends getting along and hosting a small royal dinner.” Twilight grins. 

Tempest looks between the two. “Mhm… if you say so.” Her tone was blunt and nonchalant. 

“If you need me your highness I will be right down the hall, patrolling.” Tempest was about to walk off, but Twilight stopped her. 

“Tempest, wait! Why don't you join us for tonight? You're a part of this family too after all.” Twilight gave a warm smile. 

Her smile also read 'please do not leave me alone in this room with her’. 

“Yeah, come on, Tempest! Join us tonight.” Agrees Starlight. 

Tempest bit the inside of her cheek, contemplating her choice. She sighs. “..... Fine if you insist.” She gives a light hearted smile to the group. 


***


The first two and a half hours of the dinner went by smoothly, surprisingly. Discord haven’t caused any kind of chaos...yet or the fact that Trixie and Twilight wasn’t at each other's throats...yet. 

Twilight looks around the dinner table. Trixie, Blueblood and their children were on the left side, Twilight was at the head of the table, Discord and Harmonia were on the right side, Tempest and Starlight were both within the kitchen, Tempest was keeping a close eye between the two mares. 

There was so much tension in the room, you would be able to cut it with a knife. The dish that was in front of them was Hay Tamale Pie; Starlight’s favorite dish.

“I wasn’t aware that this was a silent dinner.” Discord said, looking around the room. 

Trixie sighed, looking at the slightly lukewarm dish in front of her. Twilight rolls her eyes and uses her magical aura to move her fork around in her pie.

“You know, I made this when I was a filly! I always used to burn the edges of the pie but I have gotten better! You know, I wanted to be a chef before I met Twilight!” Starlight said, trying to break the silence as she took a bite of her cake. 

“Really? Well that’s very interesting Starlight.” pipes up Tempest. 

“This dinner is more awkward than the royal summents I had to attend to four weeks ago.” Mumbles Blueblood. 

“Might as well make some conversation with her, besides this dinner only lasts for two hours.” Twilight stops spinning her fork around her food and looks at her guests.

 “So Mystic, how are you enjoying school?” Twilight wonders. 

Mystic was cut off guard, she was making cunning glares at Harmonia. “Oh! Um…. Great! The private school that I attended teaches so  many advance spells that only Year 3 knows, and I've already mastered a few of them.”  Mystic brags as she plasters a fake smile onto her face. 

Twilight smiles back. 

“You know Illusion helps me with a few of my magic shows in Saddle Arabia over the summer two years ago.” Brags Trixie. 

“That's exactly how I got my cutie mark as well.” Illusion said, slightly bashful. His sister may love bragging about herself, but he hated it. He doesn't like to be put on a pedestal all the time, unlike his sister. 

“Well that's wonderful to hear! Isn’t it sweetheart?” Discord grins. 

Twilight still continues to stick her fork sharply in her food. “Yep, very. So Harmonia what did you learn in school today sweetheart?” Twilight asks, turning her attention back to her daughter. 

“It was great! We learned about the Art of Equestria in History today. It was rather a snooze fest however.” Harmonia gave a light-hearted chuckle. 

“Well I happen to find history fascinating. You know Starswirl was Princess Luna and Celestia’s private teacher. It was back when they were younger so they never exactly lived with their parents, Starswirl raised them- or so I heard.” Illusion explains, looking mostly directly at Harmonia. 

“Yeah, we actually learned about that today.” Harmonia said, giving a small smile. 

“I think I had a book about that somewhere in my library.” Twilight said. 

“You always have a book for something.” Discord mutters, laughing at his own comment. 

Illusion and Harmonia look at each other, slightly blushing. Mystic notices this and growls underneath her breath, obviously jealous of Harmonia. 

The two sit there staring at each other, smirking. 

“Hey, you want to ditch this snooze fest?” Harmonia asks. They were both sending telepathic messages to each other.

“Of course! But how do we ditch our parents?” Illusion asks, his eyes travel over to the group. 

“Leave that to me.” Harmonia said, giving a soft smirk. 

Harmonia held one of her paws behind her back, the other one still holding the fork, eating. Harmonia snaps her paw sending a piece of Hay Tamale Pie flying across the room landing in Twilight's mane. 

Twilight stops and puts her fork down. “Seriously, Trixie?” Twilight's tone was rather accusing. 

Trixie looked at the Princess of Friendship, slightly confused. “What?” She wonders. 

Once Twilight didn't answer, she burst out into laughter. “Oh yeah? Well how would you like some of this?” Twilight flings a piece of cake onto Trixie's evening wear. 

“Hey! I didn't even do anything.” Trixie said, her voice getting angry. 
 
“Yeah right, I've held up being nice for far too long tonight!” Twilight yells back, still fling food. 

“Girls, if we could just all calm down-” Discord reasons. Both of them look at him with glaring eyes. “No!” They both shout in unison. 

They continue to fling food and insults to each other. Some of the food managed to land on to Discord and Prince Blueblood. 

“Okay! Now it's on! How about you have some dessert. ” Discord said. He magical summons whipped cream pies to the mix of the commotion. While throwing, some of the cream from the pie lands on Blueblood’s suit, he screams. 

“Urghhh!! My suit! My new suit!” he yelled, falling back on the floor. 

“My hair!” Whines Mystic. 

“Can I see one of those pies?” Twilight asks her husband. 

“Have at it.” Discord said. Twilight grabs one in her magical aura and flings it in Trixie's face. 

“My dish!” whines Starlight, watching all her hard work go to waste. “Do you know how long it took me to make that for them?! It took forever!!”  Starlight said to Tempest. 

“On the bright side, the kitchen is getting redecorating.” Tempest said.

“Yeah! With my food! This is going to take forever to clean up!” complains Starlight, ignites her horn to create a bubble around herself and Tempest.  

Tempest rolls her eyes, slightly annoyed. She removes some whip cream from her armor. 

“Aren't you going to stop this?” Starlight asks. 

Tempest chuckles. “Nah! Let them fight; this is more entertaining than the time I took over Canterlot.” She smirks. 

Harmonia and Illusion both looked at each other, smirking. “Okay, let's go.” Harmonia said. 

Illusion smiled back, both of them silently leaving the feuding families behind.


***


The warm night air silently blows through the town of Ponyville. Illusion and Harmonia both breathing a sigh of relief. 

“You think they will be okay in there?” Illusion asks, slightly worried. 

“They will hopefully cool off in about an hour or two.” Harmonia explains. 

 “Does your family always throw food at random guests?” Illusion asks, giving her a slight smirk. 

“Only to the ones my mommy doesn't like. And apparently she doesn't enjoy your Mommy’s visit too much.” Harmonia grimace slightly. 

Illusion gave a light hearted chuckle. “That was pretty crazy what you pulled back there.” He said. 

Harmonia blushed. “Well at least it's a night to remember.” Harmonia said. 

“You have a point there.” Illusion said he then looks at her. “We must have got caught within the crossfire as well.” He looks at the both of them, laughing. 

“What do you mean?” Harmonia wonders. 

Illusion finds a tiny stream that was behind Twilight's castle where the School of Friendship was. He walks up to it, looking at both of their reflections. “See what I mean?” He said. 

Illusion was right, they both got caught within the food fight. Both of them had bits and pieces of Starlight's pie in their manes and whip cream and crumbs from the pie within their fur. 

Harmonia and Illusion both laughed at their appearance, but it was short lived. Illusion stops and silently stares at The School of Friendship. Luna's moon gliming on the schools interior design. 

“So your mother runs this school alone?” Illusion asks. 

“Not exactly,” Harmonia stares at the school along with him. “I have my aunt's that help her run it.” 

“But don't they have life's of their own to manage?” He asks, slightly confused. 

“They do, but somehow they still manage to run a school added into their daily lives.” Harmonia said. 

She sighs, thinking as she takes the food out of her mane. “What's wrong?” He asks, he's tone gentle. 

“It's just- nothing.” She mutters. 

“Come on, you can trust me. If you are worried that I'm anything like my sister, then I'm here to tell you that I'm not.” He said, giving Harmonia a gentle smile. 

“.... It's just I always prove or feel like I have to live up to both of my parents' standards. I mean my mom is an Element Barrier, saved Equestria more than a dozen times and she's the Princess of Friendship. And my dad… he’s the Lord of Chaos himself! He has lived over a thousand years!” Harmonia complains. 

“.... Seems like you have a lot to live up to.” He mutters to her. 

“Believe me you have no idea! It's like everypony expects you to be somepony you know you're not, yet they think they have your whole life planned out for you.” She complains. 

Illusion stays silent, listening for a few more minutes before putting his input. “I mean I'm supposed to be crowned in two years…. No less.” She rambles. 

“Aren't you supposed to do some “princess worthy” task before getting crowned?” Illusion asks. 

“.... That's what I thought as well.” Harmonia mutters, her eyes downcast looking at the small stream. 

“Hey if it makes you feel any better, I believe my sister is jealous of you. But don’t tell her I told you that.” Illusion winks. 

“But why? I’m a draconequus and she’s a regular unicorn. She should be happy with the life that she has and that she’s normal for a change.” Harmonia mutters that last bit to herself, but Illusion still overheard. 

“Hey! You are anything but a regular old draconequus.” Illusion winks at her. 

Illusion rubs Harmonia's back, giving her a hug. “Come on, let's go back inside. I think the arguing of both our mothers' seizes for the night.” Illusion said. 

Both of them smile at each other and they both head back inside for the rest of the dinner. 


***


Starlight quietly sat down at the table, looking at her now cold pie as Discord and Blueblood were calming down their wives. Tempest sat down next to Starlight, taking a bite from the cake she had. 

“Well, tonight was a total bust!” Starlight complains, taking a big slice onto her fork and eating it.

“You’re telling me! You girls couldn't last for two hours? Could you?” Tempest asks, her tone blunt. 

Neither of them spoke.  

Tempest mutters. “I knew this dinner would end in disaster. I couldn't sense so much tension in the room it was like cutting it with a knife.” She whispers to Starlight. 

“You're telling me-” Starlight mutters back. 

The door to the kitchen swings open to reveal Illusion and Harmonia. “And where have you two been exactly?” Tempest asks, her tone slightly amused. 

“We just needed to get some fresh air, that's all.” Illusion said, his tone relaxed. 

“Well okay then. Your mother's have finally calmed down! It’s such a bummer that no pony ate my pie! Hey, do you kids want to try it? I made it myself!” Starlight said, levitating two small plates of pie towards Harmonia and Illusion.  

“.... No thank you, Miss. Glimmer.” Illusion said, politely turning down the pie. “Besides it's getting late and we really should be heading home.” Illusion looks to his family, Mystic was already asleep on the floor. 

Starlight sighs. “Well if you insist, then I won't overstay your welcome.” She said, sitting her pie down on the table. 

Starlight looked over at Twilight who was still quite uninterested in socializing for the remainder of the night. She sighs. “I will be more than happy to walk you all out.” Starlight said, looking at Trixie's family. 

She leads them all down the dimly lit hallway of Twilight's castle. “So much for one normal night.” Illusion thought to himself. 

Once they reached the door. Trixie stops behind them. “You all go on ahead. I will be there in a few.” Trixie said.

Illusion, Blueblood and Mystic all looked at Trixie for a moment, until they decided to exist the castle. The castle door closes with Blueblood's magical aura. 

Starlight looks at Trixie slightly confused. “Trix? Is everything okay?” Starlight asks, slightly worried for her friend. 

“First off, let Trixie start off by saying that: She is sorry about the dinner scene back there.” Trixie said, her tone was sincere. 

“Oh it's fine, really. No need to worry about that.” Starlight said, brushing off Trixie's apology. 

Trixie sighs. “.... Remember when you asked me if I was enjoying the high society life?” she asks. 

Starlight nods. “Yeah? What about it?” She asks. 

“To tell you the truth… Trixie isn't. She is always seen as somepony that has to live up to fit other ponies standards. One slip up and Trixie's family's reputation is down the drain. Trixie just feels so pressured and with Blueblood, it just makes it worse.” Trixie complains. 

“Normally Twilight could relate to being in your hooves at the moment. But since you two are rarely on speaking terms at the moment. I can't have much say so in this.” Starlight explains. 

“Of course you do! You can talk to Princess Twilight about letting Trixie and the kids move in. I mean she has a million rooms in the castle I'm sure she could spare a few rooms.” Trixie says.

Starlight bit her lip. “.... I'm not so sure Trix.” She said. 

“Come on, Starlight. Please.” Trixie whimpers.

Starlight groans. “.... Fine I'll see what I can do.” She mutters. 

Trixie gave a wide grin to Starlight. “Thank you, Starlight. You are the best!” She grins. She then hurries to leave the castle. 

Starlight smiles into the darkened night as she watched her best friend walk home with her family. Starlight then shuts the door, turning in for the night. However, for some odd strange reason she couldn't help but feel like she was being watched, sure enough she was. 


***


Celestia sits in her throne room, her mane looking a tad frazzled. “Ugh! I can’t do this anymore, I have to tell him.” She said. She brings a scroll and quill into her golden aura. 

Her elegant handwriting flowing swiftly from the ink onto the parchment. 


“Dear Discord, 



“I should have told you this a LONG time ago, but…” 


She paused for a moment, then decided to cross out what she was going to say. A look of concern etched onto her face. 

“What’s the use?” She mutters to herself, she tosses the crumbled scroll to the side.

Celestia’s head and heart were within battle with herself, she sighs as she pulls out another parchment.


*** 


Luna’s night had befallen across the land of Equestria, ponies already snug in their beds after a long day of school or work, except one household was still wide awake at this hour. 

 Discord and Harmonia were sitting on their couch within the castle’s library, joy and laughter filled the room.  

“There is no way that you saved all of Equestria from Queen Chrysalis, Daddy. Besides, Mommy always saves Equestria from certain doom.” Harmonia said. 

Discord looks at his daughter with disbelief. “I happen to have saved Equestria once! Your mother just happened to be captured by Queen Chrysalis. So it was up to me to save everypony from certain doom.” Discord explains. 

“You do realize your not the only one who saved Equestria, right?” Starlight asks, a playful look was displayed on her face. 

“Besides, it was me who saved you all. You got captured as well, remember?” She said. 

“Now, I am so confused.” Mutters Harmonia. 

“Confused about what sweetie?” Twilight asks, bring in a tray of late night drinks.

“Mommy? Did Daddy really save Equestria from Queen Chrysalis or was it Aunt Starlight?” Harmonia asks. 

Twilight looks at Discord. “Oh, so you tell her this tale?” Twilight said, her expression light hearted. 

“Yes and she doesn’t believe me.” Discord huffs. 

Twilight gave a small smile while rolling her eyes in a playful manner. “Actually sweetie, your aunt Starlight, Trixie, Thorax and your father all worked together to take down Chrysalis.” she explains. 

“See I told you.” Discord mutters. 

“Where were you at mommy?” Harmonia asks. 

“I was captured along with your uncle Spike and your aunts.” Twilight said, explaining further more. 

“Oh.” Harmonia said. 

“Basically I saved you all. Your mom, dad, aunts and basically everypony was captured except me.” Starlight explains. 

“What about Tempest?” Harmonia asks. 

“She wasn’t there, because she was on vacation.” Starlight explains. 

Tempest, who had walked in at the correct moment, spoke up. “Basically they couldn’t afford me.” She explains, her tone blunt. 

“Oh! Hey Tempest, what are you doing awake at hour?” Twilight asks. 

“Partoling as usual, your highness. But I actually got this from the mail?” Tempest said, her last sentence coming more like a confused question. 

“Who delivers mail at eight o’clock at night?” Starlight wonders. 

Tempest shrugs. “No clue, but it’s addressed to you, Discord.” Tempest said, handing the scroll over to him. 

Discord looks at his wife, his eyebrows  arched. “... Okay?” He said, he takes the scroll from Tempest, unscrolling the letter. 

 “From Celestia?” He thought. His eyes scanned the letter, his expression went from concerned to bewilderment.

“Is everything okay Dissy?” Twilight asks, snapping her husband out of his thoughts. 

“Mhm, um.. I have to go.” Discord said, unsure of how to explain his reason for leaving at this sudden hour. 

Starlight and Tempest gave each other a skeptical look. 

“Apparently your teacher, Harmonia needs to have a talk about your behavior in school with me.” Discord said. 

“But I thought that’s already been discussed?” Tempest questions. 

“It has. Harmony what did you do this time?” Twilight wonders. 

“I swear I did nothing.” Harmonia said, throwing her paws up in defense, her eyes clearly displaying innocents. 

“And why does Celestia want to see you at this hour anyways?” Starlight questions. 

“Does it look like I know.” Discord said, his tone unamused. 

“Look I’ll be back in time for fuzzball to get her nightly storytime routine. It will just be real quick I promise.” Discord said, looking at Twilight. 

Twilight sighs. “Alright.” 

Discord snaps his claw, making himself vanish in a flash. 


*** 


He appears in the Canterlot Castle of Princesses Celestia and Luna. 

“Celestia, I came upon your request. Is there something you need to talk abou with me about Harmony?” Discord asks. 

“Oh I am so glad you could make it!” Celestia said, her flowing mane looked frazzled and unkempt. 

She kind of had the look of a psycho, like Twilight from Lesson Zero, but way worse. 

“Uh, Tia are you okay?” Discord asks. 

“I’m fine.” Celestia said. 

“You don’t look fine. It looks like you committed a crime. Should I be concerned?”  Discord wonders, slightly worried for his friend. 

“I’ve just been doing a lot of thinking and you just won’t leave my mind. Why? Well I wish I knew.” Celestia mutters. 

Discord looks at Celestia, not knowing how to respond. 

“Remember that letter you sent me two weeks ago? You- you did a comma in between dearest and my name. Did you intend this?” Celestia asks. 

“Tia, that may have been a mistake I-” Discord said, but his sentence stopped short when Celestia placed a light kiss on his cheek. 

"It’s clear to see that I have overstayed my welcome.” Discord said, slowly backing towards the door.

"No! Wait!" Celestia called after Discord. She thought for a moment, before giving Discord a flirtatious grin. 

"You know...I never did understand why you fell for somepony like...Twilight.” She said. 

Discord turned around at Celestia's words. "What do you mean, Tia?" He asked slowly.
   
“I mean why fall for somepony like her when you deserve somepony so much better.... somepony of higher status.” Celestia said, her tone flirtatious and rather mysterious. 

Discord was taken aback by Celestia's words. "Tia..." Discord said, trying to find a way out of this conversation. "Is this about what happened when we were kids? Or better yet the Grand Galloping Gala? Tia...I don't feel that way anymore..." he said, but his heart was thinking otherwise. 

"So you admit you felt something for me? Maybe...something more?" Celestia said, her expression sly. 

“Maybe then, but not now.” Discord said, his voice firm. 

Celestia's glare darkened a tad. “What.”

"Look, Celestia." Discord said, his voice faltering from the glare Celestia gave him.

 "You are a really pretty mare but...I'm afraid you were too late. Twilight has my heart now...and..." Discord tried to continue, but the look Celestia was giving him was shutting him up. 

Celestia flares her wings at Discord, but puts them down by her side. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. “Fine. You win.” Her tone was creepily nonchalant. 

Discord arched an eyebrow, but Celestia continued. “But just remember:  You can always use a mare of higher status.” She smirks at him.

“I have to go.” Discord mutters to himself. He then shuts the door behind him, but pauses thinking to himself as he strokes his goat-tee. 
> Chapter 12: The School of Friendship
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Four Months Later...

Twilight Sparkle’s POV: 

The morning sun of Celestia's sun soaks through Twilight's kitchen window. Twilight stands at the kitchen sink, thinking to herself as the castle remains quite from last night's dinner fiasco. 

She takes a deep breath, levitating her coffee cup to her lips taking a sip. She enjoys these quiet moments to herself, sometimes. Twilight gasped, suddenly remembers that today was a very important and special day, today was none other than Bring Your Child To Work Day. 

“I can't wait to show Harmonia what I do throughout the day!” Twilight thought to herself, giving a wide grin. She sits her coffee cup down on the counter. She quietly makes her way to her daughter's room. 


***


Twilight opens her daughter's door with ease. She gives a soft smile as she watches her little girl sleep peacefully. She softly nudges her fur. “Come on, sweetheart you have to get ready.” Twilight spoke her tone gently.

Harmonia groans softly. “Ready for what?” She mumbled, still half asleep. 

“Remember today is Bringing Your Child To Work Day. Don't tell me you forgot already.” Said Twilight, she gently brushes a strand of white mane from her daughter's face. 

Harmonia yawns. “Of course not! I'll be ready in a few.” She said. Her eyes are still slightly tired as she doses back to sleep. 

Twilight gave a small smile. “Okay, well I will be back in a few to come and get you.” She said.

Twilight then turns to leave. Harmonia was still glazed with sleep until the words: bring your child to work day rings in her ears. “Bring Your Child To Work Day…” She mumbled to herself. 

“It's…. Bring...Your-” Harmonia stops her eyes widened and she is fully alert and awake. “It's, Bring Your Child To Work Day!” She squeals. She jumps out of bed, quickly getting ready.  “Finally I get to see what mommy does for a living. I mean other that being The Princess of Friendship and all.” 


***


Applejack POV: 

“HoneyCrisp, sugarcube. We have to go.” Applejack said, motioning for her daughter to exit her room. 

Applejack was already thirty minutes behind meeting with the girls. “Why do I have to go?” Honey asks. 

“Because it's “Bring Your Child To Work Day!” Don't you want to see what your mama does while you're being homeschooled by your mama Rara?” Applejack asks. 

Honey stays silent. “Come on, you may even make some new friends while you're there.” Said Applejack. 

Honey thinks to herself. “.... But what if nopony wants to be friends with a blind pegasus? Who looks nothing like her parents?” She asks. 

Applejack opens the door. She looked at her daughter, a melancholy expression was on her face. “.... Then they haven't taken time to know the real you. Just because you are blind in your left eye doesn't mean you still can't do extraordinary things! Don't let your disability limit you and don't let fear stop you from being happy.” Applejack said, she gives her daughter a soft hug. 

“Hasn't mama Rara always told you to “Shine bright, like a beautiful shining star? The shining star we know you are.” She asks. 

Honey nods. “Yes Mama AJ.” She takes in a heavy sigh. “I think I'm ready to see what you do.” She grins. 

Applejack chuckles to herself. “That's my girl.” 

 “Now come on, I will grab us a few apples to go.” Applejack motions to the door. 

“You go right ahead, I'll meet you in the front.” She explains. Applejack leaves the room, leaving Honey Crisp to think to herself for a moment. She smiles to herself, remembering her mother's words. 

“I just hope you're right.” She softly mutters to herself. She grabs her saddlebag off the hook beside her bed and straps it on her back. Walking out of the room she runs into her Granny Smith. 

“I'm so sorry, Granny!” Apologizes Honey Crisp. 

 “Ah, it's okay, sugar! I know you didn't mean to! Besides these old bones have been through worse.” Says Granny Smith. Honey Crisps, helps the elderly pony to her hoofs.

 “Why thank you, Hun.” She said, giving her a warm smile. 

“You’re welcome!” Honey beams. 

“You know, I heard you two talking. I didn't mean to over hear, sweetheart, but you know your ma is right.” Granny said, her tone was gentle. 

“Now, I know you gotta go soon, but I need to tell you something important.” Granny said. She walks up to Honey Crisp, she leans her muzzle and whispers in her ear. 

“If they stare, let them stare. You can't blend in when you're born to stand out.” She whispers into Honey’s ear. Granny Smith pulls away from Honey Crisp giving her a firm but gentle smile. 

“Now go on, your ma is outside waiting for you.” She said. 

Honey smiles at her grandmother, giving her a hug before leaving. 


***


Rarity's POV: 

“Think this outfit will be okay, mother?” Ophelia asks, looking at her dress. 

“Darling, you do know that you're only there to observe, right?” Rarity asks. 

“Yes, but it never hurts to make a good first impression. Isn't that what you've always said mother?” Ophelia asks. 

“Indeed! But you're only there for one day. It's not like you go there.” Rarity gave a light hearted laugh. 

“I think both of my girls look beautiful.” Capper swoons at the sight of his two perfect girls. 

“Thank you, Capper.” Rarity said. 

“And please do not try to swindle the other kids today while I'm teaching.” Rarity pleads. 

“But-” Ophelia said, but Capper cuts her off. 

“You heard your mother, Ophelia.” Capper said, his voice slightly strearn. 

“Fine, but no promises.” Ophelia mutters. 

“Duchess…” scolds Capper. 

Ophelia rolls her eyes. “Now come along dear. We have to meet your aunt's at the school.” 

“You girls have a wonderful day today!” Beams Capper as he waves goodbye to the girls. 

“We will.” Rarity smiles back. 


***


Pinkie Pie's POV: 

“Dad? Are you sure you know how to bake a cake?” Cotton Berry asks. 

“Of course! I've watched your mom bake them for a while now. Besides, I just want to do something nice for your mother before she heads to work with you two.” Party Favor said. 

Confetti Pop looks at the oven. “Uh… Daddy?” Confetti tail was jittery. 

“I mean how hard can it be?” Party Favor rambles. 

Cotton Berry's eyes widen at the sight. “What is it Cotton?” He asks. 

Cotton was unable to speak, instead he pointed his hoof to the oven. 

Party Favor turns around, his eyes widen. He uses his magic to open the oven, the oven bursting out with smoke. 

The kids and Party Favor, both cough, trying to clear the smoke. 

Pinkie Pie walks in, humming happily to herself. “Are my two little-” she stops and starts to cough. She opens her eyes, shocked at the scene before her. 

“I leave for five minutes and come back to this! What happened?” Pinkie Pie asks, still coughing. 

Confetti grabs the fire extinguisher and sprays the oven down. Spraying both herself and her twin brother as well as their parents in the process. 

“Apparently it can be very hard.” Party Favor mutters. “This is why I stick to balloon making.” He snores.


***


Fluttershy’s POV: 

“Tree Hugger? Have you seen Meadow Bliss? I've looked in his room, but he wasn't there.” Fluttershy said, her tone slightly worried. 

“Relax Flutters,” Tree Hugger said, she had her eyes closed clearly and she was meditating. 
“I sent him to feed the animals outside. He should be back in a few.” She breaths. 

“While we wait, would you like to try some meditation before you leave? It's very calming.” She said. 

Fluttershy looks at the clock. “I guess I could spare just a few minutes.” Fluttershy mutters. Fluttershy relaxes her body, closing her eyes and intermediating the same pose the Tree Hugger was doing. 

She felt at peace with herself for a good fifteen minutes. “Um Mom? Don't you think we should be going?” Meadow snaps his mother out of her peacefulness. 

She jumps, slightly startled by her son’s voice. Meadow gives a light hearted chuckle. “Sorry Mom, I didn't mean to scare you, but we really need to be going.” He points to the clock. 

“Oh my! I didn't realize the time.” She said. 

Fluttershy looks at her son. “We better go then.” she said, as she hurries out the door. 


***


Rainbow Dash POV: 

“Hey kiddo you up for a race?” Flash Magnus asks. 

“Sure, but only if Mom can come.” Prism said, scarfing down the last of his breakfast. 

“You know I enjoy a good family competition.” Rainbow Dash smirks. 

“How much time do we have to say this isn't a competition.” Flash said. 

“Honey? Have you met me? News flash! When you're with me just about everything is a competition.” Rainbow Dash scoffs. 

“.... Can't argue with that.” Flash said, his tone blunt. 

“Now come on! Last one to the school is a rotten egg!” Rainbow Dash shouts, leaving quickly from the house. 

In a hurry, all three of them take off to the sky. Two of the three leaving behind a trail of colorful streaks, Rainbow Dash’s being the most noticeable. 

“Think you can keep up if I made a Sonic Rainboom?” Rainbow Dash shouts to her son. 

“Are you crazy? No way!” Prism shouts back, trying his best to keep up with his mom. 

“Well you're about to find out!” Smirks Rainbow. “One, Two, Three, Go!” Rainbow Dash took off and the sound barrier broke, ringing in Prism and Flash’s ears. 

“Oh come on! That’s not fair!” Whines Prism. 

Flash chuckles. “Good luck dealing with your mother’s ego today.” He said. 

Prism rolls his eyes. “Come on kiddo I know you will have a blast today. Just enjoy your day and try to keep your mom’s ego from- well you know how she is.” Flash said, giving his son a small smile. 

“Yeah I know.” Prism muttered. 

“Now go. You don’t want to be late, or your mother will have that to brag that she beat you at being on time as well as the flying lesson.” 

“That wasn’t even a fair lesson if you ask me.” Mutters Prism. 

Flash ruffles his son mane, before he releases him. “I’ll see you two when you get home.” 

Prism nods before flying off to meet with his mom. 


***


Twilight sits at her desk, quietly filling out paperwork. Harmonia groans, clearly she was bored from all the waiting and watching. 

Harmonia looks at her mother. "I thought you said your job was exciting? This is totally the opposite." She whines. 

Twilight still looks down at her paperwork, never taking her eyes off of it. “It's all about responsibility sweetheart.” She explains. 

“I can be responsible!” Harmonia huffs. 

Twilight lays her quill down and looks up at her daughter. “Harmonia, do you know what responsibility means?” She asks, her tone gentle. 

Harmonia shook her head, clearly not understanding. 

“Responsibility: Is the fact of having a duty to deal with something on their own. For example: If I give you a simple task, say-” Twilight thought for a moment, an idea came to mind. “.... I gave you the option of letting you watch over one of your Aunt's classrooms, then it would be your responsibility to do so.” Twilight lectures. 

Harmonia eyes lit up with an idea. “Hey mommy? Can I go explore the school?”  She asks. 

“Sure! I don't mind, but stay in this wing of the school.” Twilight warns. 

“Will do, mommy!” Harmonia said. 

*
Harmonia wanders around the school building, looking for something to do. The tiny draconques stumbles upon a classroom, all of the students eyes on her. Harmonia’s eyes widened at the sight, she was beginning to feel a bit nervous. 

Harmonia sighs. “Okay this is your chance to prove to mommy that you can be responsible.” Harmonia thought to herself. She takes a deep breath and gives a wide smile to the group of fillies and colts, along with a few other non-pony species. “Hi! My name is Harmonia Sparkle and I will be your teacher for today!” She beams. 

The class of twelve students looked at her, slightly confused.  “But… where's Miss. Rarity?” One of the students asked. 

“Does anypony have any other questions besides where Miss. Rarity is?” Harmonia asks. 

The twelve students said nothing. “Good! Now today we will be learning…” Harmonia grabs her aunt’s book off the podium. It was much heavier than she had expected. Harmonia looks at the book with a rather uninteresting look on her face. 

Harmonia closes the book. “You know what, I'm starting to rethink this whole responsibility task.” She mumbled to herself. 

Rarity walks into the classroom, slightly confused why her niece was in her classroom. “Hello, Harmonia dear. May I ask why you are in my classroom?” She questions. 

Harmonia gives a light hearted laugh. “Hehe. Um… playing teacher?” She gives a small smile to her aunt. 

Rarity giggled and softly pats Harmonia on the head. “Well, that’s nice darling but I think it’s time for me to take over this class for a little bit.” she explains. 

Harmonia sighs. “Alright.” She begins to walk out of the classroom, but Rarity stops her. 

“If you are looking for something to do. I just bought Ophelia for the day. Maybe you two can find something to do together.” Rarity smiles at her. 

Harmonia eyes widen with excitement. “Okay! Thanks Aunt Rarity.” Harmonia then hurries off down the hallway looking for her friend. 


***


Harmonia wanders the deserted hallways for the next fifteen minutes. “Aunt Rarity said she brought Ophelia today. Where could she be? I checked just about every classroom here and didn’t even see her.” Harmonia mutters to herself. 

Harmonia begins to slow her walking, her ears perked up at a very distant sound. She follows the sound, which leads her to a room on the West end of the school’s building and hallway. Curiosity got the best of her, Harmonia opens the door to reveal five faces. 

Those same five faces look back at her as a sigh of relief washes over them. 

Harmonia enters the room. “Um..hello?” She said her tone sounded slightly awkward. 

“Wait! No! Don’t-” The five shouted. 

But, it was too late. 

Harmonia let the door shut behind her, they groan in frustration. She looks at the room of unhappy faces. 

“What?” Harmonia askes, slightly confused. 

Ophelia narrows her eyes at Harmonia. “Nevermind now!” She snaps at the tiny draconquess. 

Meadow sighs. “Let’s just say you were our only hope out of here.” He mumbles loud enough for them to hear, however his voice remains calm. 

Harmonia was still confused. “What do you mean? The door is-” Harmonia tries to wiggle the doorknob, but it would not open. “Unlocked? Well crap!” She mutters the last bit to herself. 

She turns around toward the group, smiling bashfully. Clearly she was embarrassed by her former action. 

“Hehe. Umm sorry about that.” She said. 

“Well, time for Plan B! Let’s burn down the school!” Confetti Pop said, her tone almost too excited about that plan. 

Prism looked at the young mare. “Yeah, how about we call that Plan Z…” he said. 

“I agree. I don’t think that is necessary…” Honey Crisp mumbles. 

“Aww… way to take the fun out of it.” Whines Confetti Pop. 

 A cheerful, yet a voice that Harmonia recognizes comes over the intercom of the classroom. It was her Aunt Starlight. 

“Welcome to Detention! ” Said Starlight’s voice over the speaker. 

“Okay is it just me. Or is her voice way too cheerful about detention.” Mutters Cotton Berry. 

Wait… did she just say-” Ophelia eyes shrinks to the size of dimes. She started to hyperventilate at the sound of “detention”. 

Prism looks over at Ophelia, slightly worried for her. “Uh, is she okay?” He asks. 

“I have a perfect school record… t-this can’t be on it!” Ophelia’s breath quicks. 

Honey Crisp and Harmonia try their best to relax their friend. “Relax… we’ll be out of here soon.” Meadow said, his voice remained calm and collected. 

“Oh that’s helpful.” Harmonia mutters, still rubbing Ophelia’s back. 

“Besides you don’t even go here anyways.” Meadow Bliss said. 

“.... actually none of us do.” HoneyCrisp explains. 

“Does anyone have any ideas on how to get out of here?”  Cotton Berry asks. 

“I think I may have one.” Prism said. Prism charges at the door, slamming into it. 

The group watches as the young colt pegasus slams himself repeatedly at the door. Ophelia watches. “Prism, darling I don’t think that is going to help.” The feline said, her tone blunt towards the pegasus. 

“Watch me!” Said Prism, his teeth bared as he rams the door one finally time. Finally, exhaustion takes over him and he is out cold as his tongue sticks out of his mouth. 

Harmonia walks over to Prism looking down at his body. She looks back up at her remaining friends. “Great! Now what?!” She said. 

“In situations like these we scream for help.” Meadow said. 

They tried screaming, but failed to realize that after fifteen minutes of useless screaming, no pony came for help. 

Meadow takes a deep breath. “Well that didn’t help…” He mutters. 

“We would be out soon enough if somepony didn’t close the door!” Ophelia said, narrowing her eyes at Harmonia. 

Harmonia’s tone was defensive. “Come on! Stop pointing hooves, claws… paws, ugh! Whatever it is you have. Now is not the time to be playing the “Blame Game.” She said. 

“We need to stop arguing and try to work together.” Said Honey Crisp. 

“She’s right.” Agrees Cotton Berry. 

Harmonia thought for a second. “Guys! I think I have an idea, but I need to try it first to see if it will work.” She explains. Harmonia closes her eyes, trying her best to focus on her spell. She squeezes her eyes shut as she snaps her paw. In a puff of magenta raspberry pink smoke she was free-or so she thought. 

Harmonia slowly opens her eyes. “Yay! I’m free! Guys I-” Her voice was full of glee. 

But she came face to face with Cotton Berry. He looks at her for a moment, then tries his best to intimidate Starlight’s voice. “Hi! Welcome to detention!” He said. 

“OH GIVE ME A BREAK!” Harmonia wales. 

“So much for that idea….” mutters Ophelia. 

“It’s official we’re going to die here! We have no food or water!” Confetti Pop said. 

“You do know that this isn’t the desert?” Meadow questions her. 

“So I’ve been told….” Confetti Pop said, her tone blunt. 

Prism sits up for a moment, his eyes crossed. “Sky’s….” he mutters, before passing out again. 

Ophelia walks over to Prism, who was still out cold. She uses her paw and slaps him a couple of times. “Wake up!” She screams.  

“Does anypony have any water?” Honey asks. 

Everypony shook their heads no. Ophelia gives one final slap at Prism. Prism jerks awake. “Prism Bolt wins the race!” He cheers. The five look at Prism in confusion. 

“We're still trapped here genius. There's no race going on.” Harmonia said, her tone blunt. 

The group laughs at Harmonia blunt response. She then thinks for a moment. “You know even if I don't know everything about you guys, I'm kind of glad to be trapped in here with you all.” She said.

“You are?” Cotton Berry, asks slightly confused. 

“Yeah, I mean it's better than being trapped in here with Crystal for Celestia knows how long.” Harmonia said, rolling her eyes. 

“Um who's Crystal exactly?” Prism asks. 

Harmonia's face twisted to one of disgust. “My cousin.” She explains her tone unamusing. 

“I think I met her a couple of weeks ago. I do not see how you put up with her.” Ophelia said. 

“To be honest, neither do I.” Mumbles Harmonia. 

“Hey well now you have a whole group of new friends to hang out with!” Confetti Pop said, her tone perky and upbeat. 

“I do?” Harmonia questions her. 

“Of course!” Agrees Prism. 

“Wait, is anypony going to question this?” Cotton Berry asks anypony in particular. 

“Question what exactly?” Meadow asks. 

Cotton Berry looks at Harmonia. “If we have already met you. Then how come none of us has met each other?” Cotton Berry questions. 

“Silly Cotton Berry! Don't you know the author is to blame for this! She's the one who writes all the episodes and characters personalities.” Giggles Confetti Pop. 

“Well she took twelve chapters just to get us all together in one room! Who is she anyways?” Complains Cotton Berry. 

Harmonia snaps her paws and the name “Vocal Sweets” appears on the board. Harmonia points to it, not saying a word. 

“Ohh..” they said in unison. 

For the next seven hours, the group begins to tell each other jokes and other stories. 

For the first time in forever, Harmonia felt like she actually had friends for a change and it made her feel at peace and happy. She didn't feel so alone. 

Without noticing her flank started to glow to reveal her very own cutie mark. 

“It would be great if we could all just enroll here, besides going to different schools.” Honey Crisp said. 

“That honestly wouldn't be a bad idea.” Meadow said. 

The afternoon rays of Celestia's sun hit the window of the classroom, casting a soft warm glow upon the room. The ringing of the bell signaled that the last class of the day was over. 

“I swear if I hear that bell ring one more time, it's going to be missing a ring to it.” Complains Prism. 

“No, that's actually a good thing! If anypony comes this way we can bang loudly on the door for help!” Honey Crisp said. 

“How about we just make a lot of noise?” Harmonia suggests. “I mean if you haven't noticed I am a draconequus. I can clean this room in a snap.” 

“I like the way you think, Harmonia.” Prism said, giving her a smirk. 

Harmonia blushes. “Thanks….” 

“One…. Two…. Three.... Now!” Harmonia said. 

The group slings, clanging and banging any solid or loud objects in the room, all of them being as loud as they can. 

Ophelia hears muffled voices from the other side of the door. 

“Guys! I think I heard somepony! I think it's our mothers!” Ophelia said, as she listens carefully. 


***


From outside the hallway stood Twilight and the girls. 

“Have you girls seen Harmonia? I told her to stay where I can see her.” Twilight asks, her tone slightly worried. 

“She came into my classroom this morning, darling. However, that is the last time I saw her.” Rarity said. “Now that I think about it, Ophelia has been missing as well.” She said. 

“I sent Prism to get extra towels for the children who were practicing Buckball and he never returned.” Explains Rainbow Dash. 

Applejack’s ears perk up at a distance sound. “Do you girls hear that?” She asks them. 

The girls stop their chatter and listen carefully to the sound. The sound was faint, but still a bit loud to fill the hallway, but only from a distance. “Come on, it's coming from down the hallway.” Twilight said, galloping down the hallway. 

The girls follow behind her. The stop at a door that was currently shut, but the racket continued. 

“They must be there.” Fluttershy said, pointing her hoof at the locked door.  

Twilight opens the door to reveal a chaotic mess, it looked like a tornado hit the room. 
“There you guys are!” Twilight said. 

“What were you doing in here?” Question Starlight. 

“Oh you know just hanging out.” Sarcasm leaks in Prism’s voice.

“Are you kidding! We were trapped in here all day!” Ophelia shrieks. 

Meadow places a calming hoof on Ophelia. “Dude, you need to chill, we're saved now.” He said, his voice calming. 

Harmonia snaps the room back to normal. “On the bright side, I made friends for the first time in forever it feels like.” She beams to her mother. 

“Well, I'm glad to hear that! And it looks like that’s not the only thing you gained.” Twilight teased. 

Harmonia was confused for a moment, before looking at where Twilight was pointing at. Harmonia squealed with excitement. “I got my cutie mark!” She squeals, jumping up and down with excitement like Confetti on a sugar rush. 

Congratulations Harmonia! How about we all head over to Sugar Cube Corner to celebrate and grab something to eat? I know y’all must be starving.” Applejack suggested. 

Confetti Pop eyes widen at the word eat. “Food!” She squeals, in a hurry she was out the door. 

The mothers and children giggle. “Come on! I think I still have some cake waiting at home. You are welcome to come with us Twilight.” Offers Pinkie Pie. 

“Thanks for the invitation, Pinkie Pie! However, I think I'll have to pass for the day.” Twilight said, kindly rejecting her friend's request. 

“It's okay, Twilight! I understand you and your Princess duties must come first.” Pinkie giggles. 

“Actually, I need to go talk with Celestia for a few. She will be so pleased to hear your friendship progress, Harmonia.” Twilight smiles gently at her daughter. 

Twilight looks back at the girls. “Do you mind watching Harmonia while I attend to some business?” Twilight asks. 

“You know we don't mind one bit Twilight.” Beams Applejack. 

Twilight breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you!” She looks down at Harmonia. “You mind your aunt's and be good. Okay?” Twilight said.

“I pinkie promise, mommy!” Harmonia said. 
Twilight kisses the top of her daughter's head. “I love you.” She said. 

“I love you too, Mommy.” Harmonia rubs against Twilight fur. 

“Come on, Harmonia. We better go before Confetti eats all of our slices of cake.” Honey Crisp said, tugging at Harmonia's paw.  


***


Harmonia plays with the twins and her new friends at Sugar Cube Corner. “This cake is so good! Aunt Pinkie Pie.” Harmonia said, scarfing down the last bit of her slice. 

“Well thank you, Harmonia. The twins helped me make it!” Beams Pinkie Pie. 

“If you guys need me, I'll just be in the back room!” She said before turning to leave. 

“Okay Mom!” Said Cotton Berry.

“I hope mom can transfer me to her school! I mean I've made so many new friends here. I don't want to leave it!” Harmonia said. 

“Well I'm sure the Princess wouldn't mind. I mean maybe all of us could go there! Maybe we could convince our moms? I mean they do work there.” HoneyCrisp suggests. 

“Well if Plan A doesn't work, she always has a Plan B through Z for backup. You know how prepared my mom is.” Harmonia said smiling.
> Chapter 13: Empty Words
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Discord! Discord? Are you here?” Twilight calls out. 

No answer. 

“Maybe he went to go pick up Harmony from Pinkie’s house.” Twilight thought to herself. 

Twilight begins to fill out paperwork that she has been meaning to fill out for the past few days now. She had the castle to herself for today as Harmonia was hanging with her friends at Sugar Cube Corner, Tempest was at the Crystal Empire training the new guards, Starlight was visiting Sunburst for the evening, as for Discord, he was nowhere in the house. 

She hums to herself as she is filling out paperwork. The alicorn comes across a letter from Harmonia’s school. Twilight picks the letter up in her aura. She sighs out loud. “Please tell me Harmonia isn’t in trouble again.” She said aloud to nopony in particular. 

She tears open the letter and scans it. Until she comes across the familiar beautiful and proper  signature: Princess Celestia. 

“I forgot I had to talk to Princess Celestia today about Harmony!” She exclaims. 

She looks at her clock, it reads 12:53 p.m. “Maybe I can catch her in time. Hopefully she isn’t too busy.” Twilight mutters to herself. 


***


Twilight walks along the path of Ponyville, enjoying the semi-cloudy day that the weather pegasus ponies brought in today. As she walks along the path, she ignores the ponies who point and stare at her as she passes by.

Twilight slows her pace a tad. A random citizen walks up to her. as he puts a sympathetic hoof on the Princess’s chest.  

“I am so sorry about you and your daughters' loss.” The stallion said, his voice full of sympathy and sorrow. 

“Loss? But nopony in my family passed. As far as I know.” Twilight said, her tone confused. 

The mare just gave her a sympathetic look, but they quickly left. Twilight had her eyebrows knitted in confusion, but she decided to continue on with her task. 

“You know what… maybe it’s better if I fly to go and meet with Celestia.” Twilight silently mutters to herself. 


***

Celestia sits in her throne room filling out the paperwork that she has been meaning to fill out for about three weeks now. 

“Gosh Luna! I didn't realize how behind we are on paperwork for this month.” Celestia said, in her golden aura she held eighteen to twenty pages of unsigned laws that needed to have their signature. 

“Indeed! But you do realize that I have already filled out my portion, correct? Also might I mention that you sent your former secretary on vacation.” Luna asks, raising an eyebrow at her. 

Celestia gave her sister an all knowing look. 

“Oh no! I know that look! I'm not about to forge your signature on the documents.” Luna said. 

“Come on, please….” Celestia pleads. 

“No.” Luna said, her voice heald a firm tone. 

“We can split the documents. 50/50.” Celestia briefs. 

“Sister, I'm still not doing it.” Luna said. 

“Do you need some assistance?” Said a familiar voice. 

“Actually yes, Luna that would be lovely right about now.” Celestia said, looking at her documents. 

 “I didn't say anything.” Mutters Luna. 

Celestia lowered her papers. “Oh! Hello Twilight. How may I help you?” Celestia beams and gives her a small smile. 

Twilight enters the castle of Canterlot excited to tell Celestia the good news. 

“Hello, Princess. I have actually come to you with some great news about Harmonia today, something that I think will even surprise you!” Twilight smiles. 

“Harmonia has finally learned something that nopony thought she was even capable of trying to understand. She-” Twilight said, but was arruptivally cut off by a flash of bright light. 

“What the- Discord!” Twilight scolds. “Wait…. What are you even doing here?” Twilight asks, confused. 

Discord looks back at Twilight with a cocky, but sly expression played onto his lips. “Oh goody, you’re here. I thought I’d have to teleport you here myself.” He said, his tone remained casual. 

Luna's eyes widen at the sight before her. “Twilight, I think it's time for you to go.” Luna said, her tone shifts from calm to slightly worried. 

“I'm fine Princess. I'm not going anywhere. I want an explanation, Discord and I want it now.” Twilight's voice was stern. 

“Fine, you want an explanation, I'll give you one. Let's just say your title as The Princess of Friendship, doesn't suit you all too well.” Said Discord, his tone nonchalant. 

"Excuse me?" Twilight asks, her eyes narrowed.

Discord ignores Twilight and turns to Celestia, as he poofs a ring into existence. 

Twilight's heart sank at the sight she was seeing. Clearly, incapable of speaking. She watches as Discord places the ring on Celestia's horn. “Will you marry me?” He asks. 

 “Wh-what how could you?” Twilight asks, tears form at the corners of her eyes. 

“Let’s just say I needed a mare of higher status.” He smirks. 

“What will Harmonia think? You know she looks up to you!” Twilight said. The young alicorn was heartbroken. She didn’t fully understand why Discord did something like this in the first place. 

What did she do to deserve this? 

“I’m sure you can handle her on your own.” His tone was nonchalant as if he didn’t have a care in Equestria. 

“Okay, who are you and what have you done with my husband?” Twilight asks, tears of hurt and frustration. Her heart felt like it was glass, so fragile and once it was dropped there was no need to put it back together. 

Discord looks at her for a bit, a sly look on his face. Luna lays a comforting wing over Twilight’s back. “This is low! Even for you, Celestia!” Luna said, her voice stern. 

Celestia flinches at her sister’s words. “Luna I-” she was speechless. She didn’t know what to say. She knew that she had feelings for Discord, but she didn’t want it to go this far. 

Celestia looks to Twilight, a look of hurt and regret was displayed on her face. “Twilight! I am so sorry, but I hope we can be friends still.” She states, but Twilight cuts her off. 

Twilight’s looks at Celestia, a furious look was displayed on her face. A look of hurt, heartbreak and frustration wrapped up into one facial expression. “Forgive!? How can I call somepony a friend and forgive somepony who stole my husband!” She spats. 

The two alicorns didn’t even give Celestia a chance to speak. “I hope you're happy, Celestia.” Luna said, still having her wing wrapped around Twilight. 

Twilight cries softly into Luna’s fur. 

“I was really going to consider it and ask for your permission about letting Harmonia enroll at my school, but now after seeing this.” Twilight looks at the two in disgust.

She laughs. Her laugh was full of sarcasm and hurt. “I think I’ll take matters into my own hooves. I don’t need your permission.” she said, her eyes narrowed. 

She looks at Luna, her tone softens. “Thank you for the comfort, Luna but I think I’ll be okay.” She said. 

Luna sensed so much hurt in the young alicorn. “Are you sure Twilight?” She asks. 

She turns to leave, but stops. She tried to lighten her mood, but her tears were still hot and burning. “I’m sure Luna.” She mumbles. 

 Tears run down Twilight’s face, her body stiffens as she narrows her eyes at the two. “You know I hope you two are very happy!” She shouts at them. “And don’t expect me to come to your wedding.” She spats. 

Discord smirks, as Luna gives him and Celestia a dark glare. “I don’t understand! Why would you do such a thing? Discord, this is outrageous! What has gotten into you?!” 

She turns to Celestia. “Celestia, Twilight and Discord are married and they have a daughter! Why would you break their bond?! This is not how relationships work! You and Discord can’t do this! This is not right! ” Luna yelled, her tone rather angry. 

“It’s fine Luna.” Twilight said, her voice slightly ragged.

 She turns to look at Celestia, hatred filled her entire existence toward her now. “You know what Celestia? It won’t be too long before he does the same thing to you like he is doing to me! He might even go after your sister once he gets bored of you. ” She snears. 

Tears still streaked down Twilight’s face as she flew out of the throne room.


 ***


Harmonia rolled the dice on a colourful board, as she moved a tiny plastic pony figure across the board and knocked over another plastic figure. Tempest groaned as Harmonia gave a loud cheer. 

“Congratulations Harmonia, you won again…for the seventh time in a row.” Tempest said, rolling her eyes playfully. Harmonia giggled and folded her lion's paw and eagle claw together. “Meh, I am a natural at this!” she said, grinning at her seventh winning. 

“Ha! Natural my flank! I was a champion at this game when I was your age!” Starlight said, smirking as she read through the instructions book of the board game they were playing.  

“Aunt Starlight, are you sure you want to do this?” Harmonia asked daringly. Starlight smirked and booped Harmonia’s muzzle. 

“Bring. It. On.” Starlight said. Tempest sighed as she put her hoof to her head. 

The throne room door of Twilight’s castle opened to reveal Twilight, her mane was messy, tear stains were on her face, her eyes bloodshot. Starlight, Tempest and Harmonia looked at Twilight, confused by her state of appearance. Tempest stood up and walked over to Twilight and bowed. 

“Your highness. Is everything alright?” She asks slightly worried. 

Twilight didn’t say anything, she looked away from her friend, guard and daughter, remaining silent. Starlight walked over to her and placed a hoof on her shoulder. 

“Twi, are you okay? You don’t look so good. Do you need to rest?” Starlight asked. 

“I’m fine, Starlight… really.” Twilight said, giving her a fake smile. 

Starlight looks at her with a sincere expression on her face. “Twilight I know you and from the look on your face, that shows me that you are clearly not fine.” She said, her expression slightly stern.

Twilight looked away once again, not wanting to tell them what had just happened. She knows that they will be completely flabbergasted, especially Harmonia.   

 Harmonia looks at her mother, slightly confused as to why she was upset. “Mommy? Where’s daddy?” She asks. 

Twilight cringed at the sound of the word. She didn’t want to tell her the truth. She didn’t want her daughter to see her as a bad mother figure or grow up to feel like this was her own fault for his leaving. 

Twilight didn’t want to lie to her own daughter, but she also didn’t want to tell her the truth, she was practically torn at this question. Her body went tense. She looks at the crystal floor of her castle, thinking to herself. “.... daddy won’t be back for a while.” Twilight mumbles. 

Harmonia looks at her mother in confusion. “What?” She questions. Twilight said nothing more and left the throne room. 

There was a sudden knock on the door. Starlight and Tempest both looked at each other in confusion. 

“Stay right here, sweetie.” Starlight instructed her niece. 

Starlight and Tempest both made their way to the door and opened it. A flash of photographer and newsponies stand outside of Twilight’s castle. 

“How may I- whoa!” Starlight said, her eyes scanned the group of ponies all from the Ponyville and Canterlot News Reporters and Press. 

“What is going on Star- whoa! Where did all of these reporters come from?” Tempest asks. 

“Your guess is as good as mine.” Said Starlight. 

“Starlight! May we get your input on the latest scandal that has happened in Canterlot?” Shouts a female newspony. She shoves a microphone in Starlight’s face. 

“Scandal?” Starlight questions. 

“How does the Princess feel about Princess Celestia and Discord getting married?” Asks a male newspony

“WHAT?!” Tempest and Starlight both said in unison. 

The newsponies began to swarm the two. Starlight and Tempest both look at them, clearly this was just some silly rumors and gossip, right? It couldn’t be real, right? 

Tempest eyebrows furrow. “Okay, that’s enough questions for the day. Now please get the buck off the Princess's property, before I make you leave.” she snaps, she then slams the door in the reporters faces. 

Starlight looks at her. “Well way to be subtle about it.” Starlight mutters. 

“Eh.” Tempest said. 

They both walk back down the hallway, both speaking in a low tone not wanting Harmonia to overhear them. “Scandal?” Tempest questions. 

“Celestia and Discord?!” Starlight said, both equally confused. 

“Whatever the reason is, we can not let Harmonia know.” whispers Tempest. 

Harmonia meets Tempest and Starlight halfway down the hallway. “Who was at the door?” She questions the two mares. 

“Oh, just some pesky ponies they apparently had the wrong address.” Starlight fibs. 

“I’m going to go check on Twilight, you stay with Harmonia.” Whispers Tempest in Starlight’s ear. 

Starlight nods. 

Tempest gallops down the hallway looking for Twilight. 


***  

“..... After all these years, nine years in fact! ... maybe I just wasn’t enough for him…”  Twilight thought as she sits quietly in the library, tears streaming down her face as she watched the fireplaces as the flames flickered and danced before her in perfect harmony. 

Tempest could hear crying coming from the library. She opens the door to reveal a very dimly lit library, the only source of light was the fireplace being caressed in yellow, amber, and crimson flames. 

“..... your highness?” Tempest asked, approaching the mare with caution. 

“Twi? We know what happened. Why didn’t you tell us?” Starlight asked. 

Twilight was a mess her mane was frazzled and her eyes remained bloodshot red from all the crying. She didn’t say a word, she just remained curled up in the fetal position. 

“Uh… Where’s Harmonia?” Questions Tempest. 

“I laid her down for a nap.” Said Starlight. She then looks at Twilight, a sad expression mounted on her face. 

Twilight softly sighs, but Starlight could tell it was a sighing sound out of heartbreak mixed with pain. 

“Maybe it is because I didn’t want my daughter to know. Maybe it could also be the fact that I didn’t want her to see me as a bad mother or make her feel like it’s her fault because he left us. To feel like a complete and utter failure at being a mother. How did you two find out?” Twilight said, her tone sounding hurt and bitter. 

“Newsponies told us, Twilight. If Harmonia goes out later today or even anytime tomorrow then she will be bound to know.” Tempest explains. 

“She’s right.” Twilight thought. 

There was poof within the castle. Discord, looks around wanting to explain to Twilight. 

“Twilight?” He calls out, but to no avail she didn’t answer. 

He poofs into her favorite spot of the castle. 

The library.

“Well, speak of the devil and he shall appear.” Sneers Tempest. 

“Twilight please let me explain.” Discord begs.

“I have nothing to say to you.” Twilight said, her voice full of bitter and hate towards him. 

Discord looked down slightly hurt by her sudden shift in tone. 

Twilight looks at her ex-husband with a disapproving look on her face. Tempest and Starlight look between The Princess of Friendship and The Lord of Chaos, slightly on edge. 

Tempest begins to hold her ground with caution, sneering at the draconequus.  A low growl escapes her throat, Discord looks away from Tempest quickly and turns his attention back to Twilight. 

“I just want to talk to you dear…” Discord tone was cautious. He tried to get closer to Twilight a little, but he was anxious and even nervous to get anywhere near her. 

He sighs. “Listen… about earlier… it was-” He tries to explain. 

Twilight put a hoof to his mouth. As if to say shut the hell up and let me do the speaking. “I do not wish to hear what you have to say, Discord. Just a few days you cared so much about Harmonia and I. As if we’re your most valuable and prized possessions. And now all of a sudden you throw us away like trash!” Twilight’s voice hardened a bit, as tears aligned her eyes. 

“What happened to the draconequus I married nine years ago? What happened to the draconequus I fell in love with?” Twilight questions, her tone still remained hard. 

Discord remained silent as he listened to what Twilight had to say. 

“We made vows, Discord! You and me for better or for worse! Not me you, and Celestia! Did those vows mean anything to you?!” Twilight questions. 

Twilight looks at Discord before scoffing. “After nine years I can’t believe you let me down. I’ll admit I’ve had my doubts from you for many years, denying everything that anypony would bring bad about you! I’ve wiped my own tears hearing the god awful things that they have said about you because I knew in my heart that it wasn’t true. Guess I was wrong.” Twilight said, her ears down folded. 

“Twilight do you need us to-?” Starlight begins, but Twilight cuts her off. 

“As much as I would appreciate it. Harmonia still needs him here.” Twilight said, before turning her attention back quickly to her ex husband. 

“Did Celestia use some dark magic on you to brainwash you to like- well correction even be in love with her?” Twilight asks, coming to the realization that could be the only be the most possible explanation as to what was going on right now.  

“No, she did not brainwash me, Twilight.” Discord explains. 

“Then what could it be?” Twilight asks, her tone becoming rather agitated. 

Discord sighs. “You know that I love both you and Harmonia, right?” He asks, awaiting Twilight’s response. 

“Love?! If you love us, you wouldn’t go off and marry somepony else Discord!” shouts Twilight, her tone stearn, angry and full of hurt.

Twilight then paused. “..... That explains why you’ve been so distant, isn’t it? And why your heart has been unobtainable. Sad to know this is the reason why. You’re having an affair....” her eyes going wide, but a fire was burning in her purple eyes.   

Discord said nothing. 

“How stupid and foolish could I have been to deny any rumors about you? Apparently a lot. However you think I’m insane for reacting like this? Thinking that I wouldn’t find out what you’ve done?! Well let me tell you something Discord ponies talk.” Twilight said, her tone cold. 

“Now it makes sense why you said you needed a mare of higher status. What? Do I not fit that status anymore?” Twilight snarked. 

Twilight’s features became darkened a bit. “You got five minutes to start talking and start talking now.” 

“Just let me explain…” Discord stated. 

“Oh this shall be good.” Mutters Twilight. 

Discord sighs. “At the Grand Galloping Gala, which was in 2015 held by Celestia. I accepted a formal invitation from her. Well it was late, but that’s besides the point. Anyways, of course I accepted and went. Upon arrival, I met you, I noticed that you were the most beautiful mare in the room and that nothing else mattered in that moment. However, when I locked eyes with Tia- - I mean Celestia- I noticed that she was acting differently around me, of course I thought nothing of it. That night at the Gala she took me out on the balcony to talk.” Discord explains.

“About?” Twilight asked, pressing for answers.

“Just simple things, honestly.” Discord explains.

Twilight arched her eyebrows, as if she wasn’t buying it for one second.

“And that night she asked me to talk to me about Harmonia’s behavior in school... It’s like her feelings had resurfaced from her past, but you have to understand, I’ve known her for a very long time! When she was a filly I was there for her and with her, we both loved each other…” He said, trying his best to reason with Twilight, but his guilt still let him down.

“So you're saying that you still have feelings for her in return?” Twilight asks, her tone broken and bitter.

“Twilight, I love you more, I loved you more! I loved you more than anypony I have ever laid eyes on! I love both you and our daughter more!” He explains.

“Doesn’t seem like it….” Twilight mutters, her tone cold.

“You just used a past tense word: loved. Which means you loved us in the past, not now.” Twilight’s tone was ice cold.

“Honey...please… listen to me….” He begs. He then moves in front of Twilight, his face full of guilt, Discord hugs Twilight tightly as if he never wanted to lose her in the first place. Twilight remained a rather cold distance toward him, bitter and silent as she contemplates her thoughts.

She looks down at the ground. He tilts Twilight's face into his claw. Twilight smacks his claw away from her and pushes Discord off of her.

She looks at him, her eyes cold and unfeeling.“Back at that castle you literally propose to Celestia. Why did you do that?” Twilight snaps, her tone bitter.

“Yes, I needed a mare of higher status, but it was for a very good reason.” Discord explains.

“A very good reason? What could having an affair be a very good reason for!” Twilight asks, she was still fuming pissed over the whole situation.

Discord was filled with frustration. “It was an act of royal Sacrifice!” He snaps.

“Royal… Sacrifice?” Twilight mutters to herself.

“Royal Sacrifice!” Twilight yells.

“You went behind my back and had an affair with Celestia of all ponies, and you think that I won’t find out!” Twilight said her tone bitterly amused at this.

She gave a sarcastic laughter, which set Starlight and Tempest unease. “How can I forgive the love of my life who is planning on marrying somepony who I personally know and to go as far as to have an affair with them? That’s just sick!” Twilight’s tone was bitter.

Discord was speechless. He then slightly regretted his decision about proposing to Celestia, he knew it wasn’t possible to gain back any form of trust or forgiveness from Twilight this time.

“I… didn’t know…. How could I hurt the love of my life…?” He softly mutters to her.

“Oh you didn’t , did you?! Well you did! Don’t even try to take Harmonia from me because it would be a cold day in Tartarus before I ever let that happen.” Twilight seethed.

“Besides as you said before: “I’m pretty sure you can handle her on your own.” Doesn’t that sentence ring a bell?” Twilight’s eyes narrowed at the draconequus.

Discord remained silent.

There was a small creek in the door to reveal Harmonia, who was rubbing her eyes from her nap. “Mommy… daddy… what’s going on?” She questions.

Twilight and Discord stops their bickering for a moment and looks at their daughter. “...Sweetie go to your room.” Twilight said, her tone slightly stern.

“But…” Harmonia squeaks, her voice sounded small and fragile.

Discord sighs. “Listen to your mother sweetheart.” He said.

Harmonia nods and leaves the room.

“I have nothing to say to you!” Twilight hisses her tone was venomous toward Discord.

Discord sighs. “I understand if you want me gone Twilight… just say the word….”

Twilight bit her bottom lip. Discord remains talking. “Banish me... exile me…. I’d do it for you either way…” He explains, giving Twilight so many different options.

Outside the hallway, Harmonia remains there, quite as she peeps through the crack of her mother’s throne room. Tears silently stream down her face as she thinks to herself: “You mean Daddy is leaving?”

Twilight takes a deep breath. Her voice was monotonous. “Honestly Discord, I don’t care where you go. Maybe if you didn’t do what you did. You would still have a place here. But..”

Twilight pauses as she gives a sarcastic laugh to her ex-husband. “You screwed that up! What? Am I not somepony of higher status than her? Not good enough for you? That’s exactly what you said back in Canterlot!” Twilight’s tone was venomous.

Discord was hurt by the words that came out of Twilight’s mouth.

Discord’s eyebrows furrow, clearly he was angry at the choice of words she was using. “You know it isn’t like that Twilight!” He snaps.

“That’s always the card everypony pulls isn’t it?! “it isn’t like that” my flank! When clearly you can’t come up with a grand enough excuse.” She snaps back.

Twilight thought for a moment. “How long has this been going on?” She asked.

Discord didn’t answer at first.

“Discord, How long has this been going on?” Twilight repeats again, this time her teeth bared, her tone hardened.

“Four months…” he mutters.

Twilight then picks up a crystal vase, without warning and throws it at Discord, however Discord avoids it.

It’s glass shattering to the floor. 

“Get out.” She mutters, her tone dark.

“Just get out!” She screams, tears aligned in her eyes.

Discord was in so much pain, his gaze from Twilight now ended. Pain of regret filled his chaotic mind. He paused thinking should he turn back or just walk out once and for all.

Twilight then processed to collapse onto the floor in a mess of sobs.

He had his claw on the door. “I’m sorry my dear…” He mutters. Discord opens the door, and reveals Shining Armor, who was about to open the door himself, but instead was met by Discord. Shining lets out an angry expression toward Discord.

 “Get out of my way!” He grunts, his voice full of distaste and spitefulness toward the creature. 

Cadence follows alongside Shining and Flurry. “You should be..” Cadence mutters, her voice was bitter. 

“Ashamed of myself? Already doing that Princess of Love… it’s repulsive really....” He mutters, ashamed of his actions. Twilight’s friends were the next ponies to enter the castle. Each of the Mane 6 members give Discord a look of disgust and annoyance, even Fluttershy. 

Discord knew that his presents were not needed here any longer than it needed to be, he got the gist that it was time to leave. He snaps his fingers and teleports out of the castle. 

Rarity gives her a hug of sympathy. “Twilight… are you okay, darling?” She asks, giving Twilight a hug.

“I’m fine Rarity, it’s just.. How am I going to tell Harmonia about this…” Twilight said, looking upstairs. 

Shining and Cadence approach Twilight, Cadence wraps a comforting wing around Twilight giving her a warm hug. Twilight cries softly into her sister-in-law’s fur, her brother watched with concern for his sister.  Flurry joins in, hugging her aunt tightly.

 “Whatever he did to you...I’m not letting it slip by, I knew Discord was bad news from the start.” Shining said. 

Cadence thought for a moment. “.....just be gentle with the news. She may be upset at first, but she will eventually come to terms with it after a while. Yes, she will hurt, as you are right now, but she will eventually come to an understanding.” 

Shining agrees with his wife’s statement. 

Flurry carefully looks at her aunt. “Aunt Twilight? Where is Harmonia?” She asks. 

Twilight looks at her niece, tears still coming. She sniffs. “She is in her room, sweetheart. You can go see her if you want to.” Twilight offers, her tone sounded scratchy and rasphy from all the crying she has been doing. 

“Alright.” Flurry Heart leaves the room, going to find her cousin in the huge castle. 

The others turn their attention back to Twilight and Shining. “Do you want me to send the royal guards after Discord?” He whispers to Cadence, not wanting to trigger Twilight. 

Cadence looks at Twilight then looks back at her husband. Her expression softened, mixed with worry and sorrow for her sister in law. “I don’t think that would be necessary, dear. Besides who knows where Discord went to.” She softly whispers to her husband.


***


Flurry could hear crying coming from inside of Harmonia’s room. Flurry knocks on Harmonia’s door. “Harmonia, it’s me Flurry Heart, may I come in?” She asks. 

Flurry carefully opens the door. She looks at her cousin, a pitiful look displays on Flurry’s face for her cousin. Harmonia remains curled up in her ball. “..... it’s my fault Daddy left…..” Harmonia mutters to herself, as she softly cries into her fur. 

Flurry looked at her cousin in confusion. “What do you mean Harmony?” she asks. Flurry makes her way over to her cousin, making herself comfortable beside her. She lifts Harmonia’s chin gently with her hoof. Harmonia looks at her cousin, hugging her ever so tightly, guilt running through her tiny chaotic mind. Flurry hugs back, her wings wrapped around her. 

“I overheard mommy and daddy fighting.” She mutters softly. 

“What about Harmony?” Flurry Heart asks with concern. Flurry wipes Harmonia’s tears gently with her hoof, she rubs Harmonia’s back and mane, calming her down little by little. 

She looks at Flurry and a sad expression remains on her face. “I’m not fully sure what the fight was about, but I know whatever the reason is… it’s my fault…” she said. 

Flurry gives her cousin a soft and warm smile and a kiss on top of her cousin’s forehead. “Harmony, don't say that, it’s never your fault. You have done nothing wrong. Don’t beat yourself up just because of a little fight. Harmonia, you know better than that.” She said, looking at her cousin. 

Harmonia cries softly. “But… you weren't here.” she softly mutters. 

“I may not have been here, but I know that it’s not your fault. All families fight, even my mom and dad fight sometime. Trust me when I tell you this Harmony: No family is perfect.” she explains. 

Harmonia looks at Flurry with tears still streaming down her cheeks. “Really…?” She asks. 

“Mhm.” Said Flurry, giving her a soft smile. Harmonia took her cousin’s words into account. She then lunges at Flurry wrapping her claw and paw around Flurry’s neck as she cried softly into her cousin’s mane, but Flurry didn’t care as she rubs Harmonia’s back, muttering “shhh…” into her ear, trying to comfort her the best she knew how. 


***

“Are you sure you are okay Twilight?” Shining asks, careful not to trigger his sister. He sits down quietly, as Twilight’s friends carefully watch them. 

Twilight averted her eyes from the door that Discord left out of hours ago, her ears slightly flatten. “I’m fine, Shining.” She said. 

 Noticing her expression, his eyes narrowed slightly at his sister, as if he knew that something else was bothering her, but decided against it. “Alright...if you need me I’ll be up stairs with the kids.” He said, he leaves going to check on Harmonia and Flurry. 

“Darling, I’m so sorry this had to happen to you… we are really sorry.” Said Rarity, her expression looked hurt and filled with sorrow for her best friend. 

“We just heard the news and…. I can’t believe he did this to you…. When I get a hold of him! He’s gonna regret what he did!”  Rainbow Dash was speechless at the news. 

“I knew I couldn’t trust that thiefin varmint.” Mutters Applejack. 

Cadence unwraps her wing, and she brings a hoof to Twilight’s chin, lifting it up slowly. “Give it some time Twilight, love is like a box of chocolates, we never know what’s “inside.” She then gives Twilight a warm smile. “All you need to do is give it time.” she repeats, her tone softens. 

“Thank you for the comfort… all of you, but I don’t think just mere words for thought are going to fix any of this. I just need some time alone to think.” Twilight moves away from Cadence. 

“Alright Twilight.” Cadence mutters, she then releases a sigh of disappointment from Discord’s actions. Cadence then calls for Flurry and Shining to come downstairs. “Honey, sweetheart! It’s time for us to go! Come say goodbye to Aunt Twilight, Flurry.” Cadence calls out. 

Flurry and Shining make their way down stairs together. Flurry looks at her aunt with a wave of sadness washes over her. She can’t stand to see her aunt like this, she looked so vulnerable. “....Bye Aunt Twilight.”  Flurry says, her tone soft. 

Twilight gives her a soft smile. “Bye sweetheart. Here let me walk you guys out.” Said Twilight, she makes her way to the door leading the family of three out. Cadence looks at Twilight, her expression still symphotic toward her sister-in-law.

“Twilight…. If you ever need us, any of us. You know where to reach us.” Cadence said, her tone full of sorrow for her sister in law. 

Twilight nods and watches for a moment, she then shuts the door behind her. Turning her attention to her friends, her friends were worried for her, they all gave her a look of remorse as she passed by making her way to Harmonia’s room. 


***


Twilight leans into the door frame of her daughter’s room, her ears flatten at the sounds of her daughter’s crying. She lightly knocks on the door. “Sweetie? Can we talk?” She softly asks. 

Harmonia looks at her mother a sad expression still etched onto her face. “Okay mommy….” she softly squeaks. She was still curled up in her ball like she has been for the past four hours ago. 

Twilight makes her way over to Harmonia’s bed, sitting on it. Harmonia scoots closer to her mother, hugging her. “You know that your Daddy and I love you very much, right?” Twilight asks. 

Harmonia silently nods her head. “Then why did Daddy leave….” She asks, her tone sounded broken, as if her whole world came crashing down. Harmonia begins to cry uncontrollably, her tiny body still shaking and her breathing becoming ragged. As she so desperately wishes her father would come back. 

Twilight’s eyes started to tear back up. “I’m taking it that you overheard?” She asked, her tone full of guilt. The tears in Harmonia's eyes gave away the answer that she indeed overheard them. Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, to be honest I really don’t know…” Twilight mutters. 

Harmonia screamed while crying, as she hugged her mother tightly as she sobbed harder. Her eyes were bloodshot. “Don’t leave me mommy…… d-don't ...l-leave me!” She wails, trying her best to speak.

Twilight’s eyes widened at Harmonia’s sudden outburst. She hugs her daughter tightly, as she raked her hoof through her daughter’s mane. “That will never happen, sweetheart!” She said. 

Twilight’s ears suddenly went flat, as an idea came to mind. 

Harmonia buries her face into her mother’s fur sobbing harder. “I-Is i-it my-my fault d-daddy left?” Harmonia cries out, blaming herself.

Twilight looked at her daughter, agasphed that she would even think this. “No! Look at me and listen.” Twilight commands. 

Harmonia looks at Twilight with remorse in her eyes. “What happened today was and never will be your fault. Do you understand?” Twilight’s tone went from stern to soft. 

Harmonia nods her head. 
 
“Besides your daddy and I are just taking a very long break from each other.” Twilight explains. 

“Why...?” Harmonia asks, tears still streaming down towards her cheeks, warm salty tears dripping off her cheeks and onto her bed sheets and pillow. 

Twilight cringes not wanting to tell her daughter the real reason why. She thought to herself as she looked at her daughter with pain in her eyes. “Because, I caught daddy in a scandalous affair with your teacher- or ex-teacher I should say.” She secretly thought to herself. 

“Mommy…?” Harmonia asks, her tone softened, as she snaps her mother out of her thoughts. She looks at her mother, with tears streaming down her face. 

Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, it’s something you wouldn’t understand until you are older.” She explains. 

Harmonia laid her head on her mother’s chest, she started to calm down a little, wrapping her tiny paw and claw around Twilight tightly. They stay like that for a moment or so, before Twilight gets up from Harmonia’s bed. 

Harmonia looks at her mother slightly scared and confused. “Mommy…..?” she cautiously asked, her tone sounded worried for her mother. 

Twilight looks at her daughter, her expression softened. “Mommy just needs to go and do some thinking, don’t worry, I will still be in the castle, however.”

Harmonia wipes away her tears, she gave a small soft smile to her mother. “Ok..” She said, softly.

Twilight makes her way to her throne room. She opens the double doors to reveal a dimly lit room, the only thing glowing was The Friendship Map. She sighs in deep thought, her friends silently watch from the door frame, before slowly entering. 

Twilight's eyes filled with tears. How could have this had happen to her? What could have caused him to just out of the blue stop loving her?

There was a creak of Twilight's door. "Twi..." Rainbow Dash said, her tone cautious. 

Twilight broke down, crying and her friend's gathered around her and enveloped her into a hug. She hugs them back tighter than ever. 

Without notice, Twilight's cutie mark begins to glow, signaling that somepony needs her help. 

But who? 
> Chapter 14: Have You Heard The News? (Part 1)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Harmonia walked along the small path of Ponyville on her way home. It’s been awhile since she has tried to speak to her mother, yet her mother remained distant to her, Starlight, Tempest, Miss. Trixie and her own friends. 

She remained too scared to return home, in fear of getting yelled at by her mother. 

“Harmonia Sparkle? What are you doing out here? It’s late. Shouldn’t you be home?” Said a familiar voice. 

Harmonia looks up from kicking a stray pebble on the pathway to notice that the voice belonged to Jewel Bliss. 

“Jewel? W-what are you doing here? And wait… why are you having conversations with me? We hardly talked at Celestia’s school. So why are you trying to talk to me now?” Harmonia asked. 

“Yeah… I want to apologize for that. I didn’t mean to do that to you. I really did want to be your friend… I guess Crystal and the need to be in the “it crowd” got to me. I’m sorry.” Jewel mutters. 

Harmonia noticed that the unicorn looked truly apologetic for her past actions, however something felt off. 

“Look I’ll accept your apology if you can help me with something.” Harmonia said. 

“What’s that?” Jewel asked. 

“D-do you think I could come and have a sleepover at your house? Just this once.” Harmonia asked. 

Jewel looks at Harmonia, her eyebrows knitted in confusion. “What? Wait… why? Won’t your mother be worried about you?” Jewel asked. 

Harmonia bit her lip, unsure if Jewel has heard the news about why her parents split or not. “.... it’s complicated.” She muttered her ears down folded. 

“Oh….” Jewel mutters. 

“Besides I just can’t go home right now…” she said with a quiet tone. 

Jewel thought for a moment. “.... well I’m sure my mother and father wouldn’t mind. I’m sure they’d be thrilled to meet the Princess of Friendship’s daughter.” 

Harmonia's saddened expression tugs into a soft smile. “Okay let me just send a note to my mom and then we can go.” She explains. 

Harmonia snaps a quill and parchment paper into existence, as she begins to scribble on the empty parchment. 


Mom, 


Don’t bother waiting up on me to return home tonight. I went to spend the night at Aunt Applejack’s house. I’ll see you in the morning. 



Love, 


Harmonia


Harmonia snaps her paw and teleports the letter to her mother. 

“There! Now that that is taken care of let’s go.” Harmonia said. 


***

The city of Canterlot was particularly quiet around the late hours of the evening. Jewel and Harmonia made their way to the front door of Jewel’s crystal home, as Harmonia watched Celestia’s sun set over the horizon setting into dusk. 

“My parents should be at home.” Jewel said. 

She opened the door to reveal a spotless home and her father coming through the foyer. 

“Ah! There you are my dear just in time for dinner.” Fancy Pants said, he embraced his daughter in a hug. 

“Hello Jewel dear, oh who is zith?” Fleur De Lis asked, noticing that Harmonia was in the room. 

“Mother, this is Harmonia Sparkle.” Jewel said, introducing the two to her new friend. 

“Sparkle you say?” Fancy Pants questions his daughter. 

“Mhm.” Jewel said, smiling. 

Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis look at Harmonia for a second, she couldn’t tell if they were judging her or micro sizing her appearance. 

Fancy Pants was the first to break the awkward silence. “.... my dear, apologize for staring but are you the daughter of Princess Twilight Sparkle?” He asked. 

“Yes ma’am….. I- I mean sir.” Harmonia eyes widened and her cheeks blushed with embarrassment. 

Fleur's soft, light airy laughter broke the awkwardness. “... And she’s funny just like her father.” she said. 

“.... yeah… hehe.” Harmonia eyes downcast to the crystal tile flooring. 

“Quite dear.” Fancy Pants said. 

“So Miss. Sparkle-” Fancy Pants stated, but Harmonia politely cuts him off. 

“Please call me Harmonia, Mrs. Sparkle is my mother.”  Harmonia explains. 

Fancy Pants lightly chuckles. “Very well then dear. So Harmonia what brings you to Canterlot?” He asked. 

“It’s not everyday we get visitors from Ponyville here. Especially in our very own home.” Fleur explains. 

“Should I tell them the real reason why I’m here?” Harmonia wonders. 
 
But she decided against it. “.... oh um just here for a visit.” She said, giving them a fake smile. 

“... but it’s late.” Fleur said. 

Harmonia begins to pull at the ends of her hair whenever she feels nervous.

“She was wondering if she could spend the night?” Jewel asked. 

“Of course! But is everything alright dear you look like you’re about to pass out.” Fancy Pants asked. 

“.... of- of course! Why wouldn’t it be?” Harmonia said she didn’t realize how bad her paws were shaking. 

Why was she so nervous? Like her anxiety shifted from zero to a hundred real quick. 

“Here, come sit down.” Fleur instructed. 

Harmonia did what she was told and sat on the soft velvet couch. This was something her mother definitely didn’t have back at the castle. 

“I’ll go get you some water.” Fancy Pants said. 

Harmonia nodded and was left alone with Jewel and Fleur for a couple of minutes. “Maybe we should call your mother?” Fleur suggested. 

“No! I… I mean no thank you. I’ll be fine.” Harmonia said. 

“Are you sure you’re okay Harmonia?” Jewel asked. 

“I will be, once I have some-” Harmonia said, but Fancy Pants cuts her off. 

“Here you go dear.” Fancy Pants, offers her the glass of water. 

Harmonia takes a few sips before sitting the cup down. “Better?” Fleur asked. 

“Much.” Harmonia smiles.

“Well we were just about to eat. Care to join us?” Fancy Pants asked. 

Harmonia thought for a moment before coming up with her question. “ I ... would love to.” Harmonia said. 

***


Harmonia joins Jewel and her family around the dining table. She took in the sights and delightful conversation she was hearing. 

It was nothing like she had back at home, normally she would just sit in her room alone and eat or sometimes sit at the dining room table until Starlight comes and joins her, which was on occasion or Tempest, which was extremely rare. 

“So my little Jewel, how was school today? Learn anything new?” Fleur asked. 

“.... well we learned a transfiguration spell.” Jewel explains. 

“So this is what having a family again feels like.” Harmonia thought to herself. 

“What about you Harmonia did you learn the same spell work as Jewel did?” Fancy asked. 

“Oh um I don’t exactly go there anymore. I go to my mother's school: The School of Friendship.” Harmonia explains. 

“So is that why I haven’t seen you around campus? Because you transferred schools?” Jewel questioned. 

“Yep.” Harmonia said, taking a bite of her food. 

“That’s interesting! You know I used to go to Celestia school as well when I was around your age.” Fleur said. 

“Really?” Jewel asked. 

“Yes, I knew Princess Mi Amore Cadenza back when Princess Celestia took her under her wing as her niece. However, she also studied under the Princess even though she was a Princess herself.” Fleur explains. 

“.... you knew my aunt?” Harmonia asked. 

“Of course, dear.” Fleur said. 

“...wait so if you were friends with the Princess of The Crystal Empire then how in Equestria did you meet father? No offense.” Jewel questions. 

“I’ll let that offense slide, and to answer your question I was actually great friends with Shining Armor.” Fancy Pants explains. 

“Shining Armor is actually the one who got your mother and I together in the first place.” Fancy said. 

“But I thought Cadence was the Princess of Love?” Harmonia question. 

“She is dear, but back then you’re uncle Shining Armor was a pretty great matchmaker himself.” Fleur said. 

“Thanks to him we are now married with a beautiful daughter. And we couldn’t be happier.” Fancy Pants said, smiling at his wife and daughter. 

“.... awe that’s such a sweet story.” Jewel said. 

“It was a tad sappy for my taste but still sweet.” Harmonia said. 

Fancy gave a slight chuckle.“You should see how your uncle was when we tried to set him up with a date with your Aunt Cadence. Now that is a fairy tale.” He says. 

“But also a story for another time dear. It’s already 10:37 pm the girls should be in bed by now.” Fleur said.

“Right, well you girls head on to bed. We will finish up down here.” Fancy said. 

“Goodnight!” Harmonia and Jewel both shout in unison before heading up to Jewel’s bedroom. 


***


“You have a lovely room.” Harmonia said. 

“Well thank you, but I bet it’s nothing compared to your room at Princess Twilight’s castle! I bet she has over a million rooms there.” Jewel said lightly giggling. 

“You have no idea! This one time Aunt Starlight told me she got lost trying to look for my mom’s throne room and instead ended up in the supply room.” Harmonia giggles. 

Jewel giggled as well. 

“Hey Jewel? Can I ask you something?” Harmonia asked. 

“Of course.” Jewel beams. 

“Did you only invite me here out of self pity?” Harmonia asked. 

“Self pity? Harmonia what are you talking about?” Jewel questions. 

“You haven’t heard the rumors?” Harmonia questioned. 

“No…. what rumors? Harmonia you’re starting to scare me? What rumors? What’s going on?” Jewel questions. 

“She doesn’t know about what happened between my parents.” Harmonia thought. 

“..... wait! quick question when we first meet back at Celestia’s school, but you didn’t bother to show back up… where did you go? Was it because of me?” Harmonia questions. 

“Not exactly, our family got offered a last minute job relocation at the time. It was in Ponyaris, Prance we stayed there for almost five years, until my parents decided to finish the jobs they had there a year earlier than originally planned. They decided to move back here because the education system was spectacular at Princess Celestia school. Sad to hear that you’re not going there anymore however.” Jewel said. 

“.... yeah.” Harmonia mutters.  

“Now that I explained my reason-” Jewel said. 

“But what kind of jobs did your parents have?” Harmonia asked, but Jewel cut her off. 

“No, we are not changing the subject again. Now what rumors?” Jewel asked. 

“It’s nothing.” Harmonia mutters. 

“Well it’s obviously something or you would not have brought it up.” Jewel said. 

“Like I said it’s nothing. Let’s just forget about it.” Harmonia mutters. 

“We are not going to bed until you tell me what’s going on with you. Harmonia, we may not have been great friends back then but everypony makes bad choices. However, we live, learn from them and if it’s not too late then we fix them.” Jewel said, her tone slightly hardened. 

“Then I guess we will pull an all-nighter.” Harmonia said, her tone nonchalant. 

“... And to be completely honest, I want to fix my friendship with you.” Jewel said, offering her hoof. 

Harmonia gazes down at Jewel hoof before looking at her. “Trying to fix a long forgotten friendship after five years sounds pretty too late to fix to me. Don’t you think?” Her gazes harden slightly. 

Jewel looked at her. “Fine, I’ll let it go, but just know I was trying to be your friend.” Jewel said, before turning over and going to bed. 


***

Harmonia tossed and turned, she was restless and couldn’t sleep. 

She looked at the clock. It was 1:43 am and she just couldn’t shut her running thoughts off. 

Harmonia easies off the bed, making her way over to Jewel’s drawer, searching for paper, quill and a spare bottle of ink. 

She found what she was looking for and sits down at the desk, writing: 

“I don't want to be left behind yet being distance quickly became a friend of mine. Yet I find myself catching breath in a web of lies. Here I've spent most of my life obeying rules and playing games. And I find myself shadow boxing the other half. And I'm looking for a place yet I find myself searching for a face. Is anypony here I know. Cause nothing is going right And everything's a mess. And no pony likes to be alone. And all I remember is your back
Walking towards somepony,- who if you ask me was worth leaving me & mom all in your past. I remember begging to see you and I also begged you to want me, but you didn't want to. And all of your promises fall flat. And I plan on making something of myself and I can see you wanting to come back in my life. However, your love, it isn't free, it has to be earned. When I was little we both knew I didn't have anything you needed so I was worthless. Sad to say I’m glad to hear that you moved on and it clearly shows how much you cared for us, shows how much you needed us. Which seems to be not at all so good for you! I hope you're happy…

Harmonia pauses for a moment looking at the clock. It was already 3:16 am. She was hoping writing would take everything off her mind, yet she still felt something gnawing at the back of her mind. She didn’t realize she already used 4 sheets of paper and that she was now pulling out her fifth sheet from the drawer. She dips her quill back into the pot before pulling it back out. 

She bares back down on the parchment. 

You know? It sucks I wish I could figure out who you left us for. It’s funny however, a mare looks up to her father? So you’re saying that it’s okay to use ponies for their own selflessness? I mean I know I’m you made over but COME ON I don’t think I’d use a pony out of selfishness. Now unless I have a very good reason to and in this situation I am in right now, I do. 

As you can see I don’t have a family anymore, it’s broken I’ve tried to rebuild it with the ponies I still have left in my life, but we became so distant ... who else was I supposed to turn too? My friends all have their personal lives with their families, besides they already know of the situation. So I had to go to the pony I least expected to know. 

Thankfully she hasn’t questioned it, but I’m starting to feel like she is becoming slightly suspicious of it. Is it wrong of me to use somepony else as my family? Because right now mine is so lost in the dark they can’t seem to find the light no matter how hard you try! So can you blame the universe for trying to be happy for once?! 

Harmonia yawns, as she looks at the clock one last time-5:15 am. It was still dark outside, as she put the quill back in its holder. She yawned as her eyes grew heavy and before she knew it she was out like a light on at Jewel’s desk. 

Sleeping away, without noticing the letter she wrote to herself all five pages gently falling to the floor. 


***

“Harmonia. Harmonia! Wake up!” Jewel said, gently shaking her friend awake. 

“Huh?” Harmonia asked, her voice slightly groggy from sleep. 

“W-what time is it?” Harmonia looks out the window of Jewel’s house. She could hear the birds chirping and Celestia’s sun streamed through the window and curtains. 

“It’s 6:38 am why?” Jewel asked. 

“I’ve got to get home!” Harmonia said. 

“... but what about breakfast?” Jewel asked. 

“I can easily poof me a muffin or even some milk. See?” Harmonia poofs in the two existing items‍. 

“And what about the rumors?” Jewel questions again. 

“...Sorry to leave so suddenly, but I really should be getting home.” Harmonia said, looking at Jewel in an apologetic way. 

“It’s fine. Go on ahead, I’ll tell mother and father you just went home early.” Jewel explains. 

“Thank you! And you know for once in my life I actually had fun. I really enjoyed myself. Hope we can do this again soon!” Harmonia said. 

Jewel looks at the grounding noticing that Harmonia must have dropped something. “Harmonia! Wait I think you-” Jewel shouts but before she could finish she was already gone. 

“.... dropped something.” Jewel mutters this last bit to herself. 

Jewel picks up the five page parchment which was scattered about. She was unsure of which order they went in for she just gathered them randomly. 

She happened to catch sight of a few words or sentences that either made her question her friend or made her finally understand why she did not wish to tell her. 

A faint voice called from downstairs. “Harmonia, Jewel! Breakfast!” Called her mother. 

“Be down in a minute, mother.” Jewel calls back. She decided to organize the papers in the order Harmonia thinks she would have had them and began to scan the papers. “..... So Harmonia's father left Princess Twilight for who?! But why? Whoever it was…. this sounds messed up on so many levels.” Jewel mutters to herself. 

Jewel continues to read, getting so immersed and lost in the letter, she forgot her mother called their name a second time. 

“Jewel Bliss! Harmonia Spark- where’s Harmonia?” Fancy Pants asked. 

“She had to go home.” Jewel mutters absentmindedly, still staring at the letter. 

“.... what do you have there.” Fancy Pants asked. 

“.... A letter.” She said, still reading it. 

“Alright! Well once you finish please come down stairs so you can eat your breakfast before it gets cold. I’ll tell your mother that Harmonia went home.” Fancy explains. 

Fancy Pants left the room, leaving the door shut behind him. 

As Jewel got to the last page, she slowed down reading it, taking and processing the upsetting, but shocking information. “..... wait so Harmonia was using me?!” Jewel screeched. 


*** 


Luna paced up and down the hallway, waiting for her sister to step out. Luna’s galaxy dress swirled as she turned in frustration. Luna still couldn’t believe that her sister and Discord were getting married. She wanted to tell her sister this but she also wanted to support her sister so Luna was torn. Luna growled as she knocked on the door. 

“Celestia! Would you hurry up?! You have been in that room for 20 minutes! You are going to miss your own wedding if you don’t hurry up!” Luna yelled. 

Celestia looks at herself in the elongated mirror, admiring her wedding dress. “When did you become impatient?” Celestia said, she was still fawning over her dress. 

“Oh I don’t know! You have been in that room for ages and nearly everypony in Equestria is waiting for you to get married! Now, would you be so kind and open the door so we can get going?” Luna said sarcastically. Celestia rolled her eyes and opened the door. Luna burst into the room, stressed. 

“Finally!! Now, get your flank out of this room right now!” Luna said, pushing her head against Celestia’s wedding dress, signaling Celestia to move. Celestia didn’t and turned her head towards Luna. 

“Luna, do you think Discord and I should get married?” Luna stopped pushing Celestia’s dress. She turned around, her head looking down. 

“Let’s see…. You already accepted the ring and you broke Twilight’s heart. What else do you want?” Luna asked, her tone slightly bitter. Celestia’s eyes widen. She knew what she had done but she did want to be with Discord. Celestia sighed. 

“Look Luna. I know what you are saying. I know what I did was terrible but-" Celestia said, however her sister cut her off. 

“But I didn’t expect you two to do this!” Luna snaps. Celestia gasped and took a step back. Celestia didn’t understand why Luna wouldn’t support her. Celestia’s eyes narrowed. 

"If he loved me so much, then why did he choose me instead of Twilight?!” Celestia asks, her voice getting an octave higher than normal. 

“He did choose her for nine years! But you just could not get over yourself- or him in this case!” She snaps. 

Celestia said nothing at first until she looks at Luna for a minute before saying.  

“This was mine and Discord’s choice. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t support me in one of the biggest moments of my life! Discord loves me and I love him!" Celestia said. 

“I can’t believe you.” Luna mutters, her tone remaining low and harsh. Luna brushes past Celestia, walking out the door and down the hallway. Luna’s eyes filled with tears as her hoofsteps made contact with the floor.

Luna shook her head angrily. 


***

Harmonia lifts herself into the window sill of her bedroom.  

For the past few weeks she has been afraid to return home, ever since her dad left. Her mother has been nothing but an emotional wreck. 

Harmonia mostly spent her nights over at one of the girls houses, but tonight she felt like going somewhere different, luckily she has yet to be caught for sneaking out late at night only to return at the crack of dawn. 

Her bag made a thump on the crystal tiled flooring of her bedroom, she let out a soft sigh as she made her way to her bed. She sinks herself into her covers. 

Twilight watches from the hallway, peering in on her daughter. She carefully made her way to her daughter’s room, she wanted to wake her up, but decided that it was too early to even be bothered. 

“We will have this discussion later missy.” Twilight mutters, before turning back and heading back to bed. 


***


Twilight looks down at her book, reading, but trying her best to keep her mind occupied, distracted from what she was wanting to talk to her daughter about. 

“Do you have any idea how mortifying it is to find out that your daughter has been spending every night in somepony else’s home and they did bother to tell me?” Twilight said, her tone was nonchalant. 

Harmonia stood frozen. “W-what?” She asks, her tone slightly heard. 

Twilight looks up from her book, staring at her daughter. 

Harmonia didn’t know rather to be mortified by her mother’s response or say something. Twilight walks over to her. “You told me that you were at Applejack’s.” 

“Well you never pay much attention to me anyways. So why does it matter where I am?” Harmonia asks. 

“Uh, they think you’re their daughter!” Twilight explains. 

Harmonia sighs, slightly annoyed by her mother’s overreaction. “These-These- These ponies.” Twilight said, further lecturing her daughter. 

Harmonia pulls at her hair a bit. “They’re not just some random group of ponies, mom. They are-” Harmonia mutters, but Twilight cut her off with her sudden shouting. 

“What?! What?! What are they?!” Twilight asks, her tone becoming impatient and upsetting. 

Harmonia furrows her tiny eyebrows, equally getting frustrated. “I don’t know!” she yells back. 

Starlight and Tempest walk into the living room, but neither of them acknowledged the pair. 

“Because they act like you’re their- like they’ve adopted you!” Twilight said, continuing to rant.  “Like I’m just some-- like I don’t even exist!” Twilight said, her tone rather heated. 

Harmonia furrowed her eyebrows. “They take care of me!” she shouts. 

“They’re not your parents! Hey, that’s not even your real family, Harmony!” Said Twilight. 

“They’re nice to me! They actually pay attention to me!” Harmonia shouts back, tears aligned in her eyes. 

Twilight’s sighs. “Well, they’re lovely, lovely ponies.” 

Harmonia voice softens a bit. “Yeah.” 

“But they don’t know you!” Twilight’s shouts. 

“What?! And you do?!” Harmonia shot back. 

Twilight laughs, one full of hurt and sarcasm. “I thought I did.” she said. 

“What?! What do you even know about me?!” Harmonia asks. 

“Because you hardly spend time with me anymore! Ever since Dad left, you shut yourself away from everypony! Because you don’t know anything about me!” Harmonia said, continuing. 

Twilight’s eyes burned with hot tears. “Hey! I am trying my best!” she shouts. 

“They like me! Because they accept me for who I am, they- they pay attention to me! Something that you have hardly done!  Why do you think I don’t want to be here mom?! Huh?” Harmonia questions her mother. 

Twilight corals back a bit. “Okay wait.” 

“No-- they don’t believe in ignoring me and actually want to spend it with me, instead of closing themselves off!” Harmonia said. 

“I’m your mother, my job is to take care of you!” Twilight said. 

“No! I know I’m such a mistake, a disaster and that I am the worst thing that’s ever happened to you!” Harmonia explains.

“You!! Are the only--” Twilight paused hot, burning tears fell down her face as she still spoke. “The one good thing that has ever happened to me, Harmony! Sorry I can’t give you anything more than that!” 

Twilight gave a sarcastic laugh. “Taturus!” 

“Well, it’s not my fault other ponies can.” Harmonia mumbles. 


***


Starlight sighed as she planted her face into her pillow. She didn’t know what to think. She stood up another stallion. She knew that she didn’t want to be alone for the rest of her life but she didn’t know who to spend it with. A knock at the door was heard. Starlight groaned and ignited her horn and opened the door. 

“Starlight? What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be meeting with that stallion?” Tempest asked as she closed the door. 

“I stood him up ...again.” Starlight groaned. Tempest shook her head slightly and walked towards her. 

“You know you can’t do this. I know that you want to find somepony special but you can’t keep rejecting every stallion you see.” Tempest said. 

“I know. I don’t know what to do! I don’t want to be alone but I just can’t seem to find the perfect stallion! Urghhhh!” Starlight grumbled. 

“Well, these things take time Starlight. I know that you are going to find somepony that you want to spend the rest of your life with.” Tempest said, sitting next to Starlight on the bed. 

“Like who?” Starlight asked. Tempest blushed and was about to respond when the door flung open and there stood Trixie. Her mane was tangled and her eyes were bloodshot and watery. 

“Trixie? What are you doing here?” Starlight said, turning over on her bed to see the unicorn. Trixie whimpered as she ran up to Starlight, tackling her in a hug. 

“I caught Blueblood cheating on me!” Trixie cried into Starlight’s shoulder. Starlight’s eyes widen. She could feel Trixie shiver. Starlight wrapped her hooves around Trixie. 

“What? How?” Starlight asked. Trixie took a step back and wiped her nose on Tempest’s mane. Tempest groaned in disgust and gently pushed the unicorn away. Trixie wiped her eyes and sighed. 

“I saw him at a cafe in Canterlot. I was out shopping with Mystic and then my friend came up to me and said that she saw Blueblood with another mare. I was suspicious so I asked Mystic to stay with my friend as I went to find him. When I got to the cafe, I saw that he was flirting and kissing another mare! IN PUBLIC!” Trixie broke down in tears as she sulked to the ground. Starlight’s heart broke as she saw the state of her friend. Starlight then noticed something. She looked at her mane and it suddenly reminded her of snow and she saw that her coat was as blue as water. Something inside Starlight sparked. Starlight shook her head and put a hoof around Trixie. 

“Sssh. How about you stay at the castle for a couple of days? There are plenty of rooms and I can cook you breakfast. Your kids can come along with you if you want them to.” Starlight suggested. Trixie looked up at Starlight. Trixie gave a small smile to her and hugged her tightly. Starlight’s heart thumped in her chest. She hugged back warmly. Tempest rolled her eyes and began to walk out the door. Starlight noticed Tempest walking out the door, blushed and pulled away from Trixie. 

“I can show you out the door Trixie.” Tempest said. Trixie and Starlight departed from their hug. When Trixie was gone, Starlight rushed out the door to give Twilight the news…..and to get her something to eat.  

***


Twilight covers her head, shielding herself away in her pillow fort. It’s been five weeks since Discord has left her and Harmonia, and at the state she was in, she wasn’t doing well. Twilight, ate, but barely. Her friends were concerned for her well being, even her own daughter. She barely spoke to them, the only thing she did was stay in her room, surrounded by darkness and her books. 
 
She remained in her pillow fort, surrounded by wads of tissue paper. She just shields herself away from everypony. Starlight and Tempest came to check on her a few times, but they were scared to even try talking to her, in fear that they would get yelled at.

The swarm of news about Celestia and Discord’s wedding was all over the small town of Ponyville and in the big city of Canterlot. 

Twilight has heard about the news a week ago, and has shut herself in her room ever since then. She has even received an invitation from the “lovely couple”. She didn’t throw it away, she just simply laid it on her dresser, the envelope remained torn, the invitation peeking out of it. 

Twilight sighs as she gets out of her pillow fort. Her eyes were red from crying, she remained unsmiling, not even Pinkie Pie could make her smile. She began to walk in the darkness. She came across a photo of herself, Discord and Harmonia. Twilight sighs and tears begin to fill her eyes. Twilight’s ears perked up at the sound of knocking at her door. 

“Twilight? It’s me Starlight. Look, I know you don’t wanna talk but I know you haven’t eaten anything for the past couple days. I baked you something.” Starlight said. 

Twilight sighs, not really wanting to talk to anypony at the moment, but opens the door instead. “Thanks Starlight, but I’m not hungry.” She mutters to the unicorn. 

“Twilight, you have to eat something. You have us really worried about you. Not only me and your friends, but Harmonia as well.” Starlight explains as she levitates a bowl of warm soup. 

“I said, I’m not hungry.” repeats Twilight, her teeth slightly bared.  

“Twilight. You need to eat. I know you say that you are not hungry but you need to.” Starlight teleported herself into Twilight’s room and placed the bowl of soup down on Twilight’s bedside table. 

“There! Now, I also have something to tell you. Trixie is going to be staying here for a couple of days with her kids. Unfortunately, something has happened and Trixie needs some time away from Blueblood.” Starlight said, cleaning up the dirty tissues and opening the curtains to let light in.  

Twilight watches Starlight in annoyance, not really wanting to be bothered. Starlight looks at Twilight's dresser and notices the wedding invitation. 

“Oh. um…. You got an invitation? I got one as well. I was thinking of maybe going to it.” Starlight said. 

Twilight scoffs. “Go right ahead, but you won’t be seeing me there.” Twilight said, her tone bitter. 

 “Well, I’m not sure. I was going to ask you if you were going, but I wasn’t sure if you had received an invitation or not.” Starlight said, making a duster appear and brushing off the dust off the dresser. 

Twilight carefully watches as Starlight cleans her room, again she really didn’t feel like being pestered with at the moment. 

“You know, Harmonia is worried about you. She notices that you have been distant towards her. In fact, you have been distant to all of us. Me, your friends, Tempest, Cadence and Shining Armor, Flurry Heart. You know that we are trying to help and comfort you ever since what happened with Celestia and Discord.” Starlight explained, wiping a piece of cloth onto a picture of Discord and Twilight. 

Twilight sighs. “I know that, Starlight.” she mutters. Starlight continues cleaning her room until she spots a fancy wooden box underneath Twilight’s bed. Starlight ignited her horn and levitated the box out from under the bed with her magic. 

“Hey Twilight? What’s this box doing under your bed?” Starlight asked, twirling it around the room. 

Twilight looks at her friend, slightly confused by what she was talking about. Her eyes widened, at what Starlight had. It was all the letters that Twilight has kept over the past 4 ½ years that Discord has written to her every year on their anniversary, except this year. 

“What are you doing?! Don’t touch that!” Twilight yelled, lighting her horn and grabbing the wooden box of Starlight. Starlight gasps at what she just witnessed.

“I’m sorry Twilight. I didn’t know what it was. It was under your bed and I wanted to see what it was” Starlight explained nervously. 

“Nopony touches this!” Twilight yells, she quickly puts the box back where it belongs. She looks at Starlight, the tone in her voice changed. 

“I think you should leave.” Twilight said, she looked at her friend. Her expression was unwavering. 

“Twilight?” Starlight began. 

 Twilight levitates the bowl of soup, which is now cold. “I said, get out!” Twilight yells. She throws the soup, hurling it at Starlight. 

Starlight ducks, she looks up and her eyes widened. “Twilight, I- '' Starlight started, but Twilight poofs into the hallway before she knew it. 

Twilight then slams the door, in Starlight's face. 


***


Celestia looked slightly concerned, but she shook the feeling off, feeling happy for herself as she was about to marry the love of her life.

Celestia looks out the small window, awaiting to walk through, her white wedding gown flowing softly behind her. 

“Nothing to worry about, nothing to worry about Tia…” She said as she exhales deeply, she now gets ready for her wedding as a bridal maid knocks on her door. Everypony outside was happy for the two, cheering and clapping their hooves together.

At the end of the carpet, Discord, Celestia walks down the aisle, smiling at Discord. Discord lets out a small smile, his guilt still hitting him, but he kept on shaking the feeling off.

Starlight and the ones who decided to watch the wedding happen watched as Celestia walked down the aisle, Starlight frowned as she saw the sight of the two, feeling disgusted and a repulsive feeling hit her stomach.

Celestia slowly makes her way down the long aisle. 

Celestia finally made her way down the aisle, looking lovingly at Discord. Starlight carefully watches the pair, as they each say their vows. Luna- as much as she despised it- had to be the one to marry them. 

Luna puts on a fake front, so she wouldn't be seen as a bad role model, or worst princess. 

“Fillies and gentlecolts,  we are gathered here today to witness the wedding of both my sister, Princess Celestia and Discord. If anypony here objects to why these two should not be-” Luna said. 

“I object!” Shouts a voice from the crowd. 

The crowd of ponies gasped. 

“Who said that?” Discord asks, looking out of the sea of ponies. He then looks at Celestia who just shrugged in response. 

“I did!” From the crowd, stood Starlight. 

The ponies gasped. Celestia's eyes narrowed at Starlight, awaiting for her to speak. 

“I know the real reason why you wanted to marry Discord!! When Harmonia was crowned Princess, you knew that Twilight was going to stop ruling for a bit then you were going to scheme some sort of plan to get Discord to love you!” Starlight shouted. Everypony gasped and looked around, shocked and confused. Discord turned to Celestia, confused. 

“Tia, is this true? Were you going to do that?” Discord asked. 

Celestia looks out at the ponies then at Starlight before turning to Discord. “.... No, I could never do that!” Celestia said. 

“LIAR!” Starlight shouted. Everypony gasped in shock. Celestia narrowed her eyes at Starlight. 

“I think it's time for you to leave.” Celestia said, her tone harsh. 

“I am not going to leave until you tell the truth!” Starlight dared.

“Guards!” Celestia commended. 

Guards began to surround Starlight as she glared. Starlight ignited her horn and teleported to Celestia and Discord. 

“This is not right Celestia! You can’t do this! You can’t destroy Twilight’s relationship with Discord!” Starlight pointed a hoof at Celestia. Guards grabbed Starlight and pinned her to the ground. 

“Guards, I would like you to escort Starlight out of Canterlot.” Celestia said, her tone serious. The guards nodded and dragged Starlight out of the room by the tail. Starlight squirmed to get out the grasp but it was no use. 

“You won’t get away with this Celestia!” Starlight yelled as the doors closed. Luna cleared her throat. 

“So, may we continue on with the ceremony?” Luna asks, she was just going to pretend that she did not just witness what happened. 

Celestia looks to her sister and nods. “Do you Celestia take Discord to be your lawfully wedded husband?” Luna asks.

Celestia smiles. “I do.”

 Luna turns to Discord. “Do you Discord take Celestia to be your lawfully wedded wife?” She asks. 

“I do!” Discord said. 

 “Then by the power vested in me and the city of Canterlot. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.” Luna announces.

She then closes the book, walking off the stage, not wanting to witness anymore of this distasteful scene. 


***

Celestia throws the bouquet of flowers over her, awaiting for one lucky mare to catch it. 

The single mares gasped once they realized who caught the bouquet. 

Luna. 

Luna gazes at the flowers, sheepishly. As she holds them in her aura. 

As the small crowd of single mares dismissed, Celestia walked up to her sister and a wide grin plastered on her face, but faults once she realized what her sister was doing. 

“Luna, what do you think you're doing?” She questions the blue Alicorn. 

Luna didn't say anything, but disposed of the flowers. “I don't do relationships or weddings for that matter.” She said, her tone blunt before walking off. 
> Have You Heard The News? (Part 2)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

12 weeks (2 ½ Months) Later…

Harmonia and Honey Crisp were walking  down the long dirt path to Applejack's barn. Honey Crisp invited Harmonia to her house to help her with today’s chores. They were silent for half the way there. Even her friends even knew about what happened between Harmonia's mom and her dad. Honey Crisp gives her friend a soft sympathetic look.

"So...how's your mom doing?" Honey Crisps asks. 

Harmonia bit the inside of her cheek, she really didn’t feel like talking about this at the moment, but she replied to her answer anyways. “She's fine...I hope…”She said, her voice hinting with worry and concern for her mother, tears started appearing in her eyes but she held it, not showing her friend. 

“She's just resting…” She said. She tried to brighten her mood a bit, but instead she was finding herself wiping away her own tears from her eyes. Honey Crisp stops and looks at her friend. “Are you sure you are up for helping me out on the farm today? It's okay if you aren't.” She asks the tiny draconquess. 

Harmonia looked at Honey Crisp with a warm smile on her face

“No it's alright! I can manage…” She mumbles to her, Harmonia gives her a fake smile and gives her the hint that she’s willing to help her out. 


Honey Crisps sighs. “Okay, but if you ever need to leave to go on home I won't be offered." she said, as they both continue to walk. 

Harmonia nods. 

 "So what is it that you need me to do exactly?" Harmonia questions her quite pegasus friend. 

“You, my friend will help me, and my mother,”  Honey Crisp said, crackling her bones, showing off to Harmonia, Harmonia giggled a little at the sight of what Honey Crisp was doing as she bucks wildly at the air. 

“Buck down some apples!” She said happily, her body ready to kick down some apples.

Harmonia looks at her slightly confused. “You do know that I'm a draconequus, right? I can simply get the apples down with a snap of a paw.” She snaps her paw and a bright red apple appears before her. 

She takes a bite out of it. 

Honey Crisp giggles at the antics her friend was pulling. “Well then, I'm gonna have to teach you the traditional way!” Honey Crisp said, as she neared the barn, AppleJack waited, cracking her bones, they both watched as Applejack bucked down some apples off a tree nearby.

Harmonia's mouth suddenly dropped at the sight, leaving her to drop her half eaten apple as well. 


“See, what'd I tell ya! If you want to drop some apples, ya gotta do it the apple way!” Honey Crisp says, smiling at her mother. 

Harmonia gulps as she mutters to herself. “This is going to be harder than it looks.” 

The girls approached Applejack, who was fanning herself with her cowgirl hat. 

“Hey mama!” Honey Crisp said, giving her mother a hug.  Harmonia stared at them for a moment, watching as Applejack gave her daughter a hug back and thinking how lucky Honey Crisp was, but she shook the feeling away.

Applejack looks over Honey’s shoulder, realizing that her niece stood there, quietly watching them.  “Oh Harmonia! How are you sugarcube?” She asks.  Applejack  walks over to her and hugs Harmonia tightly, giving her a kiss on the forehead. 

Honey Crisp smiled at the sight. “Mama she's gonna help us buck some apples!” Honey Crisp announces. 

Applejack looked at her niece, her eyes held an understanding and soft expression to them. “Is that so? Well we could always use an extra hoof around here on the farm.” 


Harmonia was a bit nervous on what hard labor they were about to do. "Mhm. Just tell me what you need me to do." She said, her tone confident. 

Applejack points to an apple orchard nearby. “Well you see those Apples over there? I need you girls to buck them down. I need a few of those apples to make apple fritters for a bake sale I'm doing next weekend.” 

Harmonia looks back from the row of apple trees to her aunt. “Uh… How many is a few?” She asks, her tone slightly nervous. 

Applejack smirks at her niece and daughter. “You'll see.” She said. 

The two looked behind to see 10 apple trees, with 20 apples each on one tree. “Now this is a challenge…” Mutters Honey Crisp. 

Harmonia's eyes widen, but she takes a deep breath. “Ok...I can do this..!”  She said, with a hint of nervousness yet perseverance as she tries to boost her confidence.

“You can use those buckets to carry the apples to the barn, think of this as an exercise. And remember: no magic.” Applejack said, as she bucked another tree. “If you girls need me, I’ll just be right over there in the other apple orchard.” She then walks off. 

Honey Crisp looks at Harmonia. “Well I guess we better get to work, those apples aren't going to buck themselves out of the tree.” She said, making her way toward the apple orchard. Harmonia nods and follows her friend.

Harmonia looks at the rows of trees, she gulps. "Remember no chaotic magic..." she thought to herself.

Honey Crisp stretched her legs and her hooves, ready to buck the first tree. “Before you start. Let me show you how it's done first!” She said, as she brought the basket and the cart near them.

Harmonia watched as he friend bucked the tree, all of the apples fell to the basket, some landed on the ground, but Honey Crisp picked up a few apples from the ground and placed it in the basket, Harmonia carries the basket that was filled with apples, she had a little difficult time carrying them but it was not a hard job for her, she placed the first basket on the cart and moved to the next tree.

Harmonia watches her friend with curiosity. “So, you just kick apple trees all day?” She questioned Honey Crisp, not offending her and not disturbing her. 

Honey Crisp wipes her forehead with her wing. “Sometimes, well it's a fun thing to do around the farm!” Honey Crisp replied with glee, Harmonia smiled back as they neared the next tree.

“Don't you do other fun things around here? I mean other than chores?” Harmonia asks, still following the pegasus around. 

Honey Crisp hauls the bucket of apples to the side. “Well this is what we do in the farm all day, we buck apples for my Mama's apple fritters or something else.” She explains, she tosses an apple into the bucket. 

They walked over to the second row and stopped in front of another tree, Harmonia gulped.

“Think you can handle that?” She asks her friend with a playful grin on her face.

Harmonia looked slightly worried at first, but built her confidence up. “Of course!” Harmonia beams. Harmonia turns her back to the tree and back up she raises her  back hooves and tries to kick the apple tree, but she falls to the ground face first. 

Honey laughs as she watches Harmonia drums her paw on the ground and snorts. “Haha very funny.” She said, her tone blunt and unamusing. 

Honey Crisp giggles slightly at her friend's failed attempt to buck. “Oh don't sweat it sugar, here let me teach you, alright first align yourself to the tree.” She then demonstrates to Harmonia, and Harmonia follows her friends instructions. 

“What you want to do is you have to build up strength on your legs, then kick as hard as you can, make sure your hooves are steady on the ground so that way you won't fall!” Honey Crisp explains the rest of the instructions to her friend, as she tries to boost Harmonia's confidence. 

Harmonia nods and keeps her eyes on Honey Crisp, observing her every movement. “Now kick the tree!” She instructed. Harmonia did as she was instructed and kicked the tree, bucking down the apples. 

Harmonia looks back at the apples, seeing that they were all in the basket. She squeals with excitement as she gives her friend a wide grin. “I did it!” She beams at Honey Crisp. 

Honey Crisp hugs her friend, proud of her progress. “YOU DID IT!? THAT'S INCREDIBLE!” She squeals. Honey Crisp hugs Harmonia tightly and they both laughed.

Applejack watched from a distance, she smiled as the two were hanging very well.

“Okay now on to the next one!” Honey Crisp said, pushing onward, Harmonia gleefully follows behind her. 


They neared the third tree, it's trunk so large and the apples were way up high, they both readied two baskets and the cart.

Honey Crisp looks at the third tree. “The third one has a stiff stump, so you might wanna help me with this one.”  She said, as she gave her friend a smile, Harmonia giggled. 

Honey Crisp looks back at Harmonia. “You ready?” She asks. Harmonia gave her friend a smile. “Why of course!” she beams 

The two bucks the apples, once, twice, fifth. After the sixth attempt the apples finally came loose from the tree as they fell to the ground. 

Harmonia looks at the baskets, a questionable look etched onto her face.  “Do you think this will be enough?” She asks. 

Honey looks at the baskets they have already filled up. There were two at each tree that they have already bucked down filled to the brim with apples. 


Honey looks back at Harmonia. “Well mama didn't exactly say how many apples she needed for the apple fritters.”  she said. 

Harmonia looks at the row of trees that still had apples on them. “I guess we can do one more tree?” Harmonia suggested. 

Honeycrisp was done picking up the remaining apples on the ground and putting them on the basket and onto the cart. 

Honey Crisp smiles. “Let's go!” She beams. 

The two ran to the last tree, the last tree was the biggest tree of them all, with 30 apples on it.

Harmonia eyes widen at the last tree. “Now this is gonna be a problem…” she mutters. 

Harmonia thought for a second, but her thoughts were interrupted by Honey Crisp. “Well since this is a big one, how bout use your magical powers!” She suggested. 

Harmonia looks at her, a confusing and worried look displayed on her face. “Are you sure? Aunt Applejack said that appletree bucking was traditional.” Her tone was laced with concern and worry. 

“Well this tree big ain't it?” She asks. They both looked at the tree, Honey Crisp readied herself, and bucked the tree, sadly one apple fell from the tree.

“She'll never know the difference, don't worry!” She said. 

Harmonia bit her bottom lip thinking to herself, she then breaths to calm herself.  “Okay if you say so.” She mutters to Honey Crisp. 

Honey Crisp watches with giddiness and excitement as Harmonia snaps her paw and a few apples levitates from the tree to the bucket. 

Honey Crisp crosses her hooves over her chest, her eyes closed as a smug smile plays onto her muzzle. “She will never tell the difference.” She said, her tone proud. 

Applejack walks up behind the two. “Oh is that so?” She said, her tone equally as smug. Harmonia eyes widened as she lost concentration on the apples, they fell to the ground and onto her head. 

Harmonia held her head. “Ow!” 

Applejack looks at the girls, a stern look on her face. “What in tarnation do you think y'all are doing?” She asks, her eyebrows furrowed. 

Honey Crisp spins around quickly, coming face to face with her mother. “Oh hi Mama haha..ah…” She said, with a nervous giggle.

Harmonia looks at her aunt. “I'm just practicing my levitation spell Aunt Applejack!” She fibs. 

“Yeah! What she said!” Honey Crisp said, lying to her mother.

AppleJack looks at the two perplexed, but crossed looks displayed on her face. “Now you know I'm the element of honesty, so you better tell me the truth.” She said with a blunt tone.

Honey Crisp looks at her mother in fear. Harmonia looks at her friend, her eyes widened not knowing what to say. “I'm sorry Aunt AppleJack, we were gonna use magic on that tree...just to get the apples…” Harmonia said, finally admitting the truth. 

Applejack expression softens a bit. “Ah sugar cubes you could've called me to help you both.”She said her voice now soft.

Applejack back into the tree, getting ready to buck. “Here, help me buck this tree.” She said. Harmonia smiles at how understanding her aunt was. 

“Sure thing Mama!” Honey Crisp said, joining her mother and Harmonia. All three of them lined themselves against the tree, readying their legs. 

“At the count of three, we're gonna buck this tree, in 1...2...3!” Applejack said. 

The three bucked the tree, apples falling over them, but they didn't mind, they grabbed the bucket and baskets, Applejack moved the cart to them, putting the buckets and basket on the cart they made their way to the barn.

AppleJack wipes sweat from her forehead. “That was fun ain't it kids?” She said. 

Harmonia looks at the ground. “..... If you say so.” She mutters. Honey looks at her friend confused. 

Honey Crisp lays a wing over her small draconequus friend. “Harmonia? Are you okay?” She asks. 

Harmonia sniffles. “I'm fine…” she mutters,as tears started to show up again, but she resisted a little.


“Sugarcube did something get your eye? Here let me see.” Applejack said.  She placed the cart on a tree stump, and then she came to check on Harmonia. Applejack moved a hoof to her eye.Harmonia started sobbing a little. Applejack looks at Harmonia, a sad look on her face. 


 “Harmonia? What's the matter, sugarcube.” She asked, her tone was sympathetic towards the tiny draconequus. 

“I-its n-nothing...a-aunt Applej- Jack…” Harmonia said, trying to speak up, but the unravelling emotions just kept on hitting her, she started sobbing even more.

AppleJack wraps Harmonia into a tight hug, Harmonia hugged back tightly, covering her face on Applejack's fur, she cried softly into it.

Applejack looks at her daughter. “Hun, can you bring the Cart to the barn, I'll be with you shortly.” AppleJack said to Honey Crisp. Honey Crisp nods and goes to grab the cart to take to the barn. 

Leaving Applejack and Harmonia alone. 

Applejack looked down at Harmonia, who remained crying in her fur. She strokes her mane, her tone going soft. “Sweetheart, what's bothering you?” She asks. 

“M-mommy...D-daddy…” Harmonia's voice goes ragged, as she cries louder than before, she tried to stop herself from crying but couldn't control herself, her emotions were all over the place.

“I-im S-sor...sorry...Aunt A-Applejack!” She said, she started to grit her teeth, controlling herself to stop crying.

“It's okay!” Applejack mutters, as she strokes her mane. 

They stayed quiet for a moment as they listened to the birds chirping. Applejack eyes remained on the ground, as she was still hugging her niece. “I know what happened, sugarcube and I'm so sorry it did.” She mumbles, her voice slightly cracking me 

Harmonia moves away from Applejack's hug. She looked at her aunt, tears aligned her eyes. “Why did it have to happen to me?” She asks. 

Applejack sighed, not knowing how to answer her niece's questions at first, then she spoke. “Things happen for a reason sweetie but I tell you one thing, it's not your fault.” She explains. Applejack gently put her hoof on Harmonia's chin and she gently made her look at her.

“All families aren't perfect, and we should accept things that will happen to all of us, I'll be honest with you on that, we should accept what's coming to us, and we learn from them, sometimes we cope with them.” Applejack smiles at Harmonia, her tone soft. Harmonia stops crying, she wiped her tears and she smiles, AppleJack smiled back, kissing her cheek.

“Now let's go, you’re gonna help me make apple fritters with Honey Crisp, and I'll let you taste one.” Applejack said, Harmonia nods and follows Applejack inside the barn. 



***

The kitchen was slightly messy, but still was clean enough to maneuver in it.Harmonia sniffs the air, it smelled like apple fritters and cinnamon. 


“It smells soooo good Aunt Applejack! Now where are those apple fritters.” She breams looking around the kitchen's table for them. 

Applejack giggles at her niece.

“Mama makes the best Apple fritters!” Honey Crisp beams, sitting at the table. 

“The apple fritters are still getting ready, we just gotta wait for them.” Applejack explains. 
Harmonia thought of her mother and how much she loves Applejack's baking. “Do you mind if I take some to Mommy?” She asks. 

Applejack smiles at her. “Of course not sweetie.” She said. Applejack checks the oven, before turning back to her niece and daughter. 

Applejack rubs her hoof. “Speakin’ of Twilight, how is she doing?” She asks. Applejack heard the news and was concerned for a friend. 

“She says that she’s fine, but I really don’t think she is,” Harmonia said, her ears downfolded. Harmonia was concerned for her mother, she saw her mother down in the dumps before, but her Aunt Starlight helped her recover from “pillow fort pouting” when her school got shut down, but this? This was far more worse than she had ever anticipated. 

Harmonia then smelled the Apple fritters, both Honey Crisp and Harmonia's mouths were open, saliva dripping from their mouths. 

“I see two kiddies that are hungry.” Applejack giggled at the two, as she readies the plates for the two of them, placing them on the countertop. 

Applejack then got four apple fritters in a container, she let it cool for awhile until it was ready for Harmonia to take home to Twilight.

“Go on! Try some!” She said, smiling at the two.Harmonia and Honey both bit into the apple fritters. 

Harmonia savors the sweet taste of the tart. ”Mmmm! This is so good Aunt Applejack!” 

Applejack smiles. 

“I told ya Mama makes the best apple fritters in Equestria.” Honey Crisp, brags. She then takes a bit of her apple fritters. 

Applejack blushes at her daughter's comment. “Ah sucks!” She said, she turns to wipe down the counter and stove top. 

Rara enters the kitchen, smiling at Applejack and the kids. “It's true.” She said, smiling at Applejack.

“Aunt Rara!” Harmonia beams. 

“Hey hon.” Applejack hugs Rara.

“This is the best Apple fritters in Equestria!” Honey Crisp beams, she enjoyed every  last bit of her apple fritter.

“Hey Harmonia! How's my little super star?” Rara asks. 

“.... Could be better.” Harmonia mutters, she remains sitting in the chair beside Honey Crisp. Rara looks at her niece in confusion. 

Applejack puts a hoof to Rara ear whispering to her. “I'll tell you later Hun.” She said, her tone low and hushed. Rara looks from Harmonia to Applejack. 

Rara then decides to change the subject, her eyes landing upon the plate of apple fritters. “I see that you made your Equestria famous apple fritters.” she said. 

Applejack points her hoof over to the girls.  “The girls helped me, they were the best Apple buckers I've seen on this farm today.” She smiles at the girls. 

“Harmonia and I help mama buck down some apple trees!” Honey Crisp beams. 

Harmonia giggles. “HoneyCrisp taught me.” she said. 

“Well you two did a wonderful job today!” Beams Rara, proud of the work the girls did. 
The sun began to set, as golden rays shone through Applejack's kitchen window, casting a soft glow in the room and wooden floor. Harmonia looks at the time. She scarfs down the last bit of apple fritter, before grabbing the container that held extra apple fritters for her mother.

Harmonia gets out of the chair, making her way towards the door. “I guess it's time for me to go…” she mutters. 

Applejack looked at her and a soft expression was on her face. “Sugarcube, you're always welcome to come back here and hang out with us.” She smiles at Harmonia.

“Just remember what I said to you alright.” Applejack winks at Harmonia. She walks over to her and kisses Harmonia's forehead before she leaves, Harmonia hugged Honey Crisp and Applejack, the two hugged her back, along with Rara.

Harmonia moves away from the hug and makes her way to the door, walking out. 



***



Harmonia walks down the path of Sweet Apple Acres. She didn't realize how long of a road the Apple family had. She then teleports herself, back to Ponyville, but only to be mobbed by the press. 

It's been 2 ½ months since the incident happened, yet that seems to be the only news that these ponies' seem to be interested in nowadays.

“Harmonia Sparkle, is it true that your mother and father broke up!” A female newspony shouts. 

Other news reporters came in to interrogate the small mare. 

“How long will this last Harmonia Sparkle?” Asks another one. Harmonia looked slightly terrified from the mob of reports. 

“Don't you have anything better to do?” Harmonia mutters, slightly annoyed by their obnoxious questions. 

“Have you been informed about the marriage of Princess Celestia and your father discord?” Shouts a third news reporter. 

All of the news reporters were asking the same Question, Harmonia's eyes widened at the words she heard.

This statement broke her. “Wait..... What?!” She shouts. The news reporter was shocked by Harmonia's reaction, all of the news reporters were silent, They backed off slowly from Harmonia. Harmonia's eyes were tearing up, she dropped the apple fritter container on the ground, she started to cry. 

“Daddy, replaced us…” Harmonia mutters. 

Twilight peeks outside of her castle, her eyes widen at the sight of the news reports surrounding her daughter. 

Twilight looked furious as the news reports bombarded her daughter. Twilight's eyes were tearing up, her gaze was angry upon the mob. “Step away from my daughter!” She announces, using her Royal Canterlot voice, which was stearn and angry at them.

 The news reporters ran away, leaving Harmonia crying. Twilight quickly runs over to Harmonia and wraps a wing around her, enveloping her in a tight hug. Harmonia hugged her so tightly, that she would not let go.

“I-is i-it true...M-mommy…” she whimpers. 

This is not how she wanted Harmonia to find out, much less  with who. Twilight sighs. “Sweetie, let's go in first alright, we will talk there…” she mutters, softly. Twilight carried Harmonia on her back , her face covered. Twilight looked at the Apple Fritters that AppleJack made, she smiled a little and she tried to change the subject.

“Did Applejack make her delicious apple fritters, again?” Twilight asks. Harmonia nodded a little. 

 Twilight and Harmonia went into the castle together.Twilight shut the door behind her and looked at her daughter with sorrow and hurt in her eyes. 

“Is it true mommy?” She asks again, her voice small and quiet. Twilight shook her head, tears filled her eyes. 

“Yes, sweetie it's true.” She mutters. 

“But why would daddy choose a princess, if you're a princess too?” Harmonia asks, slightly confused. 

“Because he wanted somepony of higher power.” Twilight thought to herself. 

She bushes Harmonia's question to the side. “Come on! Let's enjoy these apple fritters.” She said, changing the subject. Twilight levitates the container and takes the food into the kitchen. 


Harmonia examines her mother carefully. She looked at her mother like she was about to have a major breakdown. 

“Mommy? Are you sure you're okay?” Harmonia carefully asks, not wanting to upset her mother. 

“ ..... I'm fine sweetie really.” Twilight mutters as she places plates for the both of them.

Harmonia bit into her apple fritter. “You know mommy.... If you ever need anypony to talk to-” Harmonia stated, but got cut off. 

Twilight broke down crying, she pushed away her plate. “Talk?! Talking isn't going to help, nothing is going to help! He has made his choice! I hope he is happy with it!” She yells. Harmonia jumps slightly at her mother's voice. 

Without warning, Twilight gets up from the chair and teleports into the castle's throne room where the Friendship map stood.

Harmonia just sat there, looking at her Apple fritter, she then started to cry, she dropped her fritter and she left her seat, she curled up into a ball, crying softly into her fur.

“It's my...f-fault...that...daddy left.” She whimpers. 


***


Twilight stood in her throne room, crying. “...... I can't do this anymore.....” She thought to herself. 
 
Harmonia opens the door to the Twilight’s throne room. “Mommy?” Harmonia asks. 

Twilight's ears prick up at her daughter's voice. Twilight pauses and looks at her daughter. She had finally come to a conclusion. 

Twilight sighs, her breath ragged. “........ Harmonia, sweetie, I-I can't take care of you anymore.” Harmonia looks at her mother as if her heart broke more than it did. 

“Mommy......? But-” Harmonia was speechless. Was her mother giving her away? She was the only thing that Harmonia had left, that she considers family.    

Twilight sighs. “I'm in no condition to do so at the moment. So, I'm going to send you to live with one of the girls.” she explains. 

Tears came into Harmonia's eyes. 

Twilight’s cutie mark started to glow, signaling that somepony needed her help. Twilight looks down at her cutie mark and back at her daughter who had tears in her eyes. “I have a Friendship Mission to attend to and I can't risk the thought of taking you with me.” Twilight explains. 

Harmonia ran to her mother, she hugged her ever so tightly, she cried and pleaded to her mom. “MOMMY PLEASE! DON'T LEAVE ME!” She cried out, her body was shaking, her eyes bloodshot. “I LOVE YOU SO MUCH MOMMY...I DON’T WANT TO LOSE YOU TOO!” She rambles on. 

Twilight's eyes widen. “Sweetie, relax! It's just for a few days. It's not like I'm going to be gone for an eternity.” Twilight  explains as she hugs her daughter.

Twilight unwraps her hoofs around her daughter’s neck. “Now, I will be leaving for the Crystal Empire. I should be back in a day or two so no need to worry.” She explains, her tone calm. 

Twilight smiles down at her daughter. “Where am I staying?” She wonders. 

Twilight teleports the two to Pinkie Pie's house. “You Will be staying with your Aunt Pinkie Pie.” She said.  Harmonia eyes widen with excitement. 

Pinkie Pie pops her head out the door. “Hello Twilight and Harmonia! What can I do for you?” She asks, her voice was bubbly and cheerful.

Twilight stifled a small giggle. “No order today, Pinkie. I actually have a Friendship Mission to attend and I was wondering if you could watch Harmonia for a few days?” She asks.

Pinkie Pie beams at the thought of the twins having their first sleepover, especially Confetti Pop. 

“Of course! You can bunk with Confetti for the night. I'm sure she wouldn't mind.” Pinkie Pie 

“Of course not!” Confetti Pop shouts from somewhere in the house. 

Twilight sighs with relief. “Thank you, both of you. I shouldn't be gone long, but less than two days. I should be back soon.” 

She kisses her daughter's head, one last time before departing. 


“I love you. Be good.” Mutters Twilight. 

Harmonia nods. “I will.” She gave a small smile to her mother. Twilight walks out the door and down to the train station.

“Hi Confetti!” Beams Harmonia. 

“HARMONIA IT'S NICE TO SEE YOU!”  Confetti hugged Harmonia tightly, Harmonia giggled and she hugged her back. 

“It's been awhile, did you eat anything before you came yet?” She asked her friend. 

Harmonia nods. “I had apple fritters.” 

She laughed and she nuzzled her. “Come on! I'll help you get settled in.” Harmonia nods and follows Confetti to her room.


Harmonia placed her belongings in Confetti's room. Confetti was excited to hang out with Harmonia.

“I haven't had a sleepover in forever! The last one was with Ophelia, and let's just say it ended in-” Confetti thought for a moment, thinking to herself, thinking of the right words, how the sleepover with Ophelia ended. 

“Thievery?” Harmonia questions the pink filly.  

Confetti giggles. “Exactly!”

Harmonia laughs at her bubbly pink friend’s bubbly attitude. “I'm just glad she didn't steal anything valuable.” Harmonia explains. 

“The only thing “valuable” we have in my mom’s party cannons, not sure what she would want with those.” Harmonia giggled at Confetti, Confetti laughed back.

 The two came back downstairs, seeing Pinkie Pie baking. 

“Is somepony hungry?” asks Pinkie Pie, her tone naturally bubbly and upbeat. 

“Me!” Confetti said, bouncing her way to the table. 

Harmonia giggles at her friend's antics, she reminds her so much of her aunt.  Harmonia then sits down on the chair near the kitchen counter top.


“I guess I can go for one, what are you baking Aunt Pinkie Pie?” asks Harmonia. 

“Well lucky for you girls, I'm baking your favorite treat Confetti.” Pinkie Pie said, pulling out the muffin pan from the oven. 

“Chocolate strawberry cupcakes?” Confetti guesses. 

Pinkie nods her head. “Yep. Here you go! Don't worry, there's more for you Harmony!” Pinkie Pie said, looking at her niece. 


Pinkie Pie gives a cupcake to both of the girls. “These look delicious, thank you!” Harmonia said. 

Cotton Berry came into the kitchen. “Is that Chocolate Strawberry cupcakes?” He asks. 

“Yep! Want one?” Confetti asks her twin brother. 

“I’ll pass.” He said. He then notices their friend, Harmonia. “Oh! Hello Harmonia. What are you doing here? Wait, Confetti didn’t constantly pester you for you to have a sleepover did she?” He asks. 

Harmonia giggles. “No, not this time. Mommy had to go on a mission, so I’m staying here for a while.” Harmonia explains. 

Cotton nods his head, taking in the information. He then rams a cupcake onto Confetti Pop’s muzzle. “Hey, what was that for?” She wines. 

“That was for a prank you pulled on me four weeks ago, you really thought I’d forget dear sister?” He said, snickering at how ridiculous his sister looked. 

He cocks a goofy grin at her. “You can’t out prank the master.” He said, his tone nonchalant. 

“So you think you can out prank, Harmonia?” Confetti Pop said, her tone slightly sassy. 

Harmonia gave Cotton a cocky grin, his eyes widened. “Oh! Hehe… look at the time! It’s way past my bedtime. So bye!” He poofs out of the room, quickly. 

“He thinks he is a champion of pranks, but between you and me, I think he is just scared to be beaten by a girl.” Confetti Pop explains. 

Harmonia giggles.  


*** 


Twilight gets off the train, she is in Canterlot, her cutie mark still glowing, it starts guiding her to the friendship problem she needs to fix. “I wonder where this is leading me…”

She then flies towards the problem, her cutie mark guiding her, she goes past the big crystal courtyard, she then enters a town nearby. “Excuse me, but does anypony here have a friendship problem?” She asked, her tone cautious, not wanting to trigger anypony into another fight. 

“I heard a ruckus nearby, just south of here, heard somepony fighting, but I don't wanna intrude Princess Twilight, but we're glad you're here to resolve this problem!” The Pony said, pointing to the direction the problem was located.

Twilight follows the sound to the loud arguing, this time running into another group of ponies. “Hi, Princess of Friendship here. I'm not entirely sure what is going on here, but I'm sure whatever it is. We can work it out.” Twilight said, her tone sounding welcoming, calm and inviting. 

“Oh it’s not us your highness, but we heard a ruckus in the castle, we think it's Shining and Cadence who's having a problem, we're so glad you could come and fix this Princess!” The pony said, as he sighed in relief. 

“Sure! It's no problem at all!” Twilight beams. 

Twilight thinks to herself. “I've never known them two to fight in their whole life. This is a first, even for me.”

Twilight thanks the pony and heads to the Crystal Empire.

She neared the castle, she saw a small window opening on the side, revealing Cadence and Shining face to face, their stiletto of their shadow view made it look like they're arguing. Loud voices were heard inside the castle, but not to loud, making it feel like they are actually arguing, 

Twilight lands on the front door, knocking not too loud, but just a little bit to be heard. Cadence answers the door. “Oh Twilight, good to see you!” Cadence said, she wraps her sister in law in a tight hug, Shining smiled at the sight. 

“Hey Twi, what brings you here?” Shining asks, 

“Well, I was summoned here by the Friendship Map.” She explains.

 Twilight looks between the two. “Is everything okay?”” 

Cadence was slightly confused. “A Friendship problem?” she wonders. 

“But we are not even arguing Twi, and the friendship map calls you here?” Shining said, who was equally confused by his sister's statement. 


Twilight was slightly baffled. “Indeed it did! But if you two aren't the problem then who is?” She asks. 

Cadence releases a little chuckle. “There's no problem!” 


“Maybe it's somepony  else's friendship problem nearby the castle, but your here so, do you want to come inside?” Shining asks. 

“Yeah, it's so nice to have you back Twilight.” Cadence hugs her once more, and she guides her inside the castle.

“Come on, you should rest up.” Cadence insisted on her hospitality to her sister-in-law. 

“Well I did tell Harmonia that I'd be gone for a day or two..... Sure why not.” she said, making her way inside. 

Shining closes the door gently and he goes back to patrolling with the guards.

“Two days? Who is Harmonia staying with? One of your friends?” Cadence asks, as she readied drinks for the two, she readied two glasses of Lemon juice.

Twilight takes the drink from Cadence. “Yeah, she's staying with Pinkie Pie from the time being.” Twilight explains. 

“How is everything with you? Are you doing well with yourself lately?” Cadence asked, with a hint of concern and worry for her sister in law, she then wrapped a wing behind Twilight, rubbing her back gently.

Twilight ears flatten slightly. “...... Eh it could be better, honestly.” 

“Twilight... did you have another breakdown?” Cadence asked, not wanting to trigger Twilight in anyway, she then took a sip from her glass and she placed it on the table.

“Kind of, but I'm okay now.... Wait how did you know about my breakdown?” Twilight was curious to know how her sister in law could have known about her breakdown. 

“You were like that even before Harmonia's time.” Cadence light giggled at Twilight, nudging her playfully. “But I'm glad to see you, lightening yourself up. And I'm glad you're doing well. How's Harmonia by the way?” she asks. 

Twilight takes a sip of her drink. “She's hanging in there.” 

“Well I'm glad you two are doing well for yourselves!” Cadence replied, happy to see her sister in law finally recuperating from all of the shenanigans that happened.

“You can sleep in the spare guest room we have for tonight.” Cadence explains. 

“AUNT TWILIGHT!” Flurry Heart lunges at Twilight and hugs her tightly. 

Twilight giggles and hugs her niece tightly. “Hey Flurry Heart!” she said. 

“I didn't know you were coming!” she beamed, her tone was curious laced with excitement. 

Twilight softly giggles. “I'm just here to stay for 2 days, your cousin is at her friend's house, so I'll be staying here for a few days.” Twilight smiles at her niece, she kisses her forehead and wraps a wing around her.

Flurry smiles at her aunt. “Is everything okay?” She wonders. Flurry could have sworn she saw a different emotion displayed on her aunt’s face, but quickly disappeared. She was curious to know why Twilight was staying for two days and not just here for a visit. 

“Everything is fine sweetie, your Aunt Twily just needs a vacation.” Twilight smiled at her niece, Flurry Heart smiled back and she nuzzled Twilight.

“Oh okay!” Flurry said. 

Crystal was the next pony to stop by. “Aunt Twilight? What are you doing here?” She asks. 

“Hey Crystal, I'm just here for 2 days, how are you little one?” Twilight asked Crystal. 

“I'm fine.” She smiles. 

Twilight looks at her sister in law. “How about you girls go and I'll see you in the morning.” Twilight yawns.

“Alright! Goodnight Aunt Twilight!” They said in unison. The two girls ran upstairs, going to their rooms. Cadence goes to Twilight.

“Are you sure you don’t want to join us for desert? Shining and I are making Apple pie. ” Cadence asks. 

Twilight looked over at the clock and it was only 8:30 pm. 

“I might join later. For now, I think I’m just going to get settled in my room."  Twilight said. 

Cadence smiles at her sister in law, then turns her attention to the hallway, leaving Twilight alone. 

Twilight rises from Cadence's bed and makes her way to her room.


***


“I'm glad Twilight is recuperating from all of this.” Cadence said, looking at her husband she gave him a small smile. 

“My sister is the toughest mare I know! She’ll get through this.” Shining said. 

“I'm glad Aunt Twilight is feeling better.” Flurry said, her tone calm. 

Crystal thought for a moment. “But she still seems slightly off edge, at least to me she does.” 

Cadence softly sighs. “She just needs more time dear.” Cadence smiles at her daughters, she then goes back to reading the ingredients. 

Cadence and Shining both grab the ingredients from the fridge and cabinets. 

“Okay, so we have: apples and the pie crust.  The only thing we are missing is the sugar.” Cadence lists the ingredients in front of her. 

“I think we have some in the storage room, hang on.” Cadence said, walking to the pantry. She illuminates her horn for light.“Found some!” 

She brings the sugar out of the pantry and places it on the countertop. “Alright, let's get baking!" she beams. 


***


Twilight lays down on her bed, curled up, her wings wrapped around herself, she stared blankly on the wall.

“I don't get it...why did the friendship map call me here…” She thinks to herself, she shakes off the thinking and she tries to catch some sleep. 

She slept for thirty minutes. Until she was awoken by a voice.

It was her brother coming to get her. 

“Twily, wake up. The pie is done.” Shining Armor said, gently shaking his sister. 

“What time is it?” She asked. 

“It’s only 10, but if you would rather go ahead and just go back to sleep then we won’t be offended.” Shining said, giving his sister a smile. 

She rubs her eyes, and she gets up from her bed, she yawns softly and she stands up. “It’s fine, I could use some of your pie.” Twilight smiles at her brother, she then goes down stairs, followed by Shining from behind.
 

***


“Is Aunt Twilight gonna eat with us?” Flurry asks, her mother. 

“Don't worry she will, she's just tired, that's all sweetie.” Cadence explains, giving her daughter a soft smile. 

Crystal finishes her food, she then pushes the plate away and goes up stairs, without a word. 

Twilight enters the kitchen and a small smile appears on her face. “It smells soooo good in here!” 

Cadence levitates a plate to her. “Here you go, Twilight.” She said, giving Twilight her slice of the pie. 

Twilight receives her slice of the pie, she smells it first, savoring the sweet smell of apple. She levitates the fork and cuts the pie into bite size chunks, she then ate the first half. Her mouth filled with yummy bliss as she savored the pies flavor.

“This is delicious! ” Twilight said, savoring each bite. 

“Mommy and Daddy make really good pies Aunt Twilight!” Flurry said, giving her aunt a toothy grin. 

Cadence giggles. "Well, thank you Twilight.." She said. 

“I'm sorry I came down late, I was nearly asleep.” She said, her tone was sincere. 

Twilight thought to herself. “I still don't know why the friendship map brought me here, I see no problem here.” 

“Anyway, do we have anything to do tomorrow? Like princess duties and what not?” Twilight asked Cadence, she ate a piece of her pie once more, savoring the flavor again.

Cadence thought for a moment. “..... Well, our schedule is pretty clear for tomorrow, except Shining has guard duty, but that's about it.” 

“I can hang out with the kids tomorrow if you like, we can always take a stroll outside.” She recommended it to Cadence, she ate the last piece of her pie, and then she levitated the plates and utensils in the sink.

“Thanks for the pie Cadence, it's really tasty!” She gave a smile to her sister in law. 

“You are always welcome Twilight!” Cadence said, her tone calm. 

Twilight yawns. “I think I'm going to head to bed.” She mutters. 

“Us as well, we will see you in the morning.” Cadence said.  

They parted ways and the Empire remained quiet for the night. Twilight's hooves were the only sound echoing in the hallway. A cold chill swept through the hallway which sent shivers down Twilight's spine.

Twilight stops. “Hello? Is anypony here!?”  She calls out into the darkened hallway, but nopony answers. Twilight shrugs and heads on to bed. 

“It must be my imagination.” Twilight thought to herself. 


Once she got to her room, she made her way to her bed. Snuggling down in her cover, she turns on her side and drifts off to sleep.

From a far the mysterious visitor watches as their mouth curls into a sinister smile, their eyes glowing white. 

As they watched the Princess of Friendship sleep peacefully, the only thing that illuminated the room was her cutie mark.


*** 


Twilight yawns as she opens her eyes, she comes face to face with four pairs of eyes, both belonging to Crystal and Flurry Heart. 

Twilight screams. “Do you girls know what time it is?” Twilight asks, as she narrows her eyes at her nieces. 

“Yeah, it's 9:00 am.” Crystal said, her tone blunt. 

“And you promised us that you would spend the day with us!” Flurry said. 

Twilight rubs the sleep from her eyes, and yawns. “I did promise, but why this early? Ponies are still asleep you know.” Twilight narrows her eyes at the two. 

“Well we can always have fun before anypony else wakes up.” Flurry suggested. 

Twilight sighs. “Fine. What do you girls want to do?” She asks the girls. 

“We can have a picnic in the garden.” Crystal suggests. 

“That sounds like a nice idea Crystal.” Twilight said, placing her hooves on the cold hard crystal floor. Flurry jumped up and down around Crystal excitedly. 

“This is gonna be so much fun! Come on Aunt Twilight!” Flurry Heart grabs her aunt's hoof and the three hurry out the door.


****


The picnic blanket landed safely on the grass as the sun reflected off the leaves. Crystal gently sat down as Flurry laid down on the blanket. Twilight giggled as she levitated an orange platter of cucumber sandwiches placing it on the blanket along with a pitcher of lemonade. 

“Thank you for inviting me girls. I guess I needed this.” Twilight said, taking in a deep breath of fresh air. 
 
“You're welcome, Aunt Twilight.” smiles Flurry Heart. 

Crystal takes a bite of her sandwich, savoring the flavor. “We could have gone to the spa, but Flurry suggested something more relaxing. Even though the spa was more relaxing in my opinion.” Crystal said, as she rolls her eyes.

“The spa would have been a nice idea, Crystal, but this is simply relaxing as well.” Twilight smiles at her niece. 

Twilight looked around the garden and frowned. The garden looked like the one back at her castle. Her eyes became watery as she remembered the times she had with Discord in her garden. She could remember the times where they would laugh and tickle each other or the times where they would sit and talk about things that were on their minds. 

“Aunt Twilight? Are you okay?” Crystal asks. 
Twilight blinked her eyes and smiled at Crystal. “Of course Crystal. I’m fine.” she said, sipping her lemonade. 

She watches as her nieces are enjoying themselves, as she remained lost in thought. It's as if she was in a trance as she was slowly eating her cucumber sandwich.

“Aunt Twilight?” Flurry asks. 

No response. 

“Aunt Twilight?” Crystal asks. 

Again no response. 

“Aunt Twilight!” They said in unison. 

Twilight jumped, startled. “Sorry girls, I guess I was lost in my own thoughts at the moment.” She said, her cheeks held a hint of pink. Clearly she was embarrassed by her action. 

“Are you sure you're okay?” Flurry Heart questions, double checking. 

Twilight nods. “I'm fine! Honestly, I'm just trying to figure out what this Friendship Mission is that I am supposed to go on. I mean I'm not even sure where it's located.” She explains. 

“Well, hopefully you will figure it out soon.” Flurry said, her tone hopefully. 

“Maybe…” Twilight mutters. She takes another bite of her sandwich. 


***


The girls clean up the mess, as they fold the blanket and throw away their trash. “You girls head inside, I'll be inside in a few.” Twilight said. 

For now, she just wanted to enjoy the sounds of nature to herself. Twilight closes her eyes, as the soft breeze blows through her mane. She could not shake the feeling that maybe there was no friendship problem at all and that maybe she should just head on home. 

Twilight gets up and walks into the empire. She comes face to face with Cadence, who smiles at her. “Good morning, Twilight!” She beams. 

Twilight gives her sister in law a sheepish smile. “Oh!  Good morning Cadence. I was actually coming to tell you that I am heading home early.” Twilight said. 

Cadence looks at her sister in law, confused. “I thought you had a friendship problem that needed to be fixed here?” Cadence asks. 

“I thought I did. Maybe it was just a false alarm.  A glitch in the map.” Twilight assumed. 

Cadence sighs. “Well I'm sorry to hear that your friendship mission was unsuccessful.” Cadence said. 

“It's fine, really. I've been meaning to head back home anyways to take care of Harmonia.” Twilight said. 

Twilight gives her sister in law a hug. “Alright. Well I guess we will see you soon.” Cadence said. 

“Tell Shining that I have left and not to worry.” Twilight said. 

Cadence nods her head, watching as Twilight leaves the Empire. 


***


The walk to the train station was fairly long. Twilight enjoyed the cool breeze that blew on her face. She sighed as she enjoyed the quietness of the peace that the Crystal Empire had to offer. 

Twilight slowed her pacing, her cutie mark started to glow once again. She looks at her cutie mark, slightly confused.

 “Huh? The friendship problem must be near here.” She mutters. She watched as her cutie mark glowed before her. It's like it was guiding her to her problem. 

Twilight's cutie mark gives her a trail. She follows it. 

After what felt like miles of traveling, Twilight's cutie mark stops glowing, leading her into a crystal forest. 

“A Crystal forest? Why on Earth would my cutiemark send me here?!” Twilight asks confused. 

She wanders around, looking for anypony who needs her help. “Hello? Is anypony here?” Twilight calls out, in the crystal clear forest. 

Nopony answer. “Great! Just great! My cutiemark just had to lead me here!” Twilight mutters to herself. “Another false alarm…” she thought. 

Twilight sighs, as she tries to find her way out of the forest, but with no luck she was lost. A cold chill, the same cold chill she felt in the hallway of the Crystal Empire swept through the forest grounds, sending chills down her spine. 

“That's the same feeling I felt at the Empire.” Twilight thought to herself. 

Twilight musters up all the bravery and courage she had. “Whoever is out here! Show yourself!” Twilight demands. 

They didn't say a word, not even a sound. The only sound that could be heard was Twilight's scream.
> Chapter 15: What Lurks In The Shadows
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Harmonia looks out the window of Pinkie Pie's window. “Where's mommy?” She said, she gazes out her aunt's window, patiently waiting for her mother's arrival. 

It was already 2:00 pm. “Maybe she's just running late?” Confetti suggested. 

“I hope that's the case.” Mutters Harmonia. 

She looks down at the board game that the twins picked out. “It's your turn Harmonia.” Cotton Berry said, as he placed his piece on the board. 

He gave Harmonia the spinner. She flicks the spinner, landing on a 7. 

She moves her piece on the board, quietly, but she couldn't stop thinking about where her mother could be. 


***


Twilight illuminates her horn, she was cast into complete darkness. “Hello? Where am I? Is anypony here? Show yourself!” She demands, her voice echoing into the darkness. 

She waits for her pony-nappers response, but only receives wicked and cold laughter from them. Twilight turns around, startled by its mysterious eyes. 

“At last we finally meet face to face ...Twilight Sparkle.” He hisses. 

“Come into the light so I can see who you are!” Twilight demands. The mysterious figure steps out of the shadows and into the soft glow of Twilight's horn. 

Twilight gasps at who she came face to face with. 

It was none other than King Sombra. 

Twilight's eyes widen in fear, her body tense. “I thought you were-” Twilight said, her tone quaked in fear of the stallion. 

“What dead?” He lets out a sinister smirk. “No I am very much alive, my dear.” He held his hoof to Twilight's face. 

Twilight swats his hoof away. “What do you want, Sombra? And that's Princess Twilight Sparkle to you!” She hisses at the handsome dark stallion in response. 

“Oh right, well excuse me if I wasn't invited to your coordination nine years ago.” Sombra said, his voice leaking with sarcasm. 

“But I must say you fit those wings fit you quite well. However you’re title-” He smirks at her. 

Twilight looks at him, slightly confused by what he was going on about. “What are you talking about?” She wonders. 

“I'm just saying, why be a princess when you can be a queen.” In his hoof, he manifests a silver crown with her element of Harmony embedded in the center of it. 

“W-what?” Twilight was speechless. 

“When you first arrived at the castle, you were just starting to learn about dark magic. Why you even used more than once. Looks like to me you even enjoyed it.” He smirks at her. 

“Look, Sombra I'm not sure what game you are trying to play here but I'm not interested in your bidding!” Twilight snaps. “I swear to Celestia if you do not let me go!” She warns. 

“Ah yes, Celestia. Isn't she the mare that took your husband away from you?” He asked, his tone nonchalant. 

“That's not what I came here to talk about, Sombra. I'm going home! Besides, you're just a cliche bad guy in all the fantasy books I've ever seen or read.” Twilight snorts, her eyes narrowed. 

“You're not even a real King! You are only a shadow.” Twilight sneers at him. 

Sombra looks at Twilight, an unamused look on his face. “So I'm just a cliche bad guy in any fantasy book you ever read?” He asks, he tone slightly amusing. 

Twilight narrows her eyes at him. “Then you don't mind if the fantasy story turns real!” Sombra's horn glowed, revealing black, shadow like tendrils erupting from the ground. The black shadow tendrils wrap Twilight's wings, neck and hooves together. 

Twilight gasps for air, as she chokes. Tears forming in her eyes. “You know we're not so different you and I” He walks up to her, a smirk played on his lips. “But since you don't want to corporate then how does this sound for a perfect ending: the spunky young heroic princess gets killed by the big bad villain. End scene.” Sombra then cackles wickedly at Twilight, as he watches her struggle. 

Twilight bares her teeth, her eyes giving the same effect Sombra's did. Sombra gasped at the sight before him. But he moved quickly out of the way, before the black shadow tendrils could attack him. 

He smirked, as he watched the young Alicorn become slightly dizzy by the dark magic she just performed. “What did I tell you princess? Not. So. Different.” He hisses. 

Twilight shook her head regaining her vision. “Sombra, Let me go!” Twilight screams. “Or I’ll-” she warns.

“You’ll do what?” He hisses, his eyes narrowed. “You do realize that you can't leave until your friendship mission is solved right?” He asks, circling around her. 

“I know that! So let me go so I can go see who needs my help!” Twilight demands. 

“Why of course, princess, but you're looking at your friendship problem.” He smirks. 

Twilight eyes narrowed at him. “You and friendship don't even belong in the same sentence.” She spats. 

“Well you can't leave until I get what I want!” Sombra sneers. 

Twilight was scared to ask or even wondering what it was that he even wanted from her. “And that is?” Twilight asks, her tone full of curiosity and worry. 

“You.” He hisses in her ear. Twilight's eyes shrink to the size of dimes. 

What has this map possibly got her into? 


*** 


Starlight walked throughout the quiet hallways in Twilight’s castle. Emotions ran through her mind as she took each step: Anger, Sadness, Confusion and tiredness. Starlight needed to tell somepony about Celestia’s plan. She walked out into the castle balcony and saw Tempest, looking at the night sky, her mane blowing in the wind. Starlight smiled and walked towards Tempest. 

“Back so soon?” Tempest asked, not turning around. Starlight giggled and stood beside her. 

“Yeah. The wedding was a ... interesting event.” Starlight said hesitantly. 

“How so?” Tempest said. 

“Well, I got thrown out.” Starlight said, wincing. Tempest turned to Starlight, confused. 

“What? How? Why?” 

“Well, I found out Celestia’s plan” 

“What plan?!” 

“Well, you know that Harmonia is going to be crowned princess in a few years right?” 

“Yeah? What about it?” 

“Well, after Harmonia is crowned Princess, Discord and Twilight were going to take a break from ruling then Princess Celestia was going to scheme a plan to make Discord her special somepony!” 

Tempest fell silent and placed a hoof on Starlight’s shoulder. Both of them blushed. Tempest shook her head. 

“We can’t tell anyone about this Starlight. Not even Twilight.” Tempest said, in a calm tone. Starlight nodded in agreement. Tempest smiled and began to walk back inside the castle. 

“Where are you going?” Starlight asked. 

“Going to put Harmonia to bed. Goodnight Starlight.” Tempest replied. 

“Yeah. Goodnight Tempest.” Starlight said quietly. She put her hoof to her cheek; it was burning hot. Starlight couldn’t have feelings for Tempest… could she? And what about Trixie? Her mind went crazy when she saw her. It can’t be possible to fall for two ponies…… right? 


***

Harmonia lays down, snug in her bed. “Goodnight Harmonia.” Said Tempest. 

“Wait! Don't leave yet!” Said Harmonia. 

“What is it now? I already read you a story and gave you a glass of water.” Said Tempest.

“Umm…. Could you sing me a lullaby?” Harmonia asks, her tone bashful. 

Tempest rubs the back of her neck with her hoof. “Wouldn't you prefer if your mom sings to you?” Asks Tempest, her tone slightly bashful. 

“Mom's voice is nice and all, but I prefer somepony different from time to time. Plus she's still at The Crystal Empire with Uncle Shining and Aunt Cadence.” Harmonia said, her tone modest. 

Tempest grimaced for a moment. “But I don't know any lullabies.” Said Tempest. 

Harmonia giggles. “It's okay! You can always make something up.” She said. 

Tempest thought for a moment. Harmonia gives Tempest her puppy dog eyes. “Please…” she whimpers, begging her mother's guard.  

Tempest sighs, slightly annoyed but in all fairness who could say no to this adorable face. “Fine,” she mutters. 

Harmonia beams excitingly. “But I'm going to need some help.” Tempest admits. 

An idea came to Harmonia. “Aunt Starlight can help you!” Said Harmonia.

Harmonia snaps her paw and poofs her Aunt Starlight into her room. 

“Huh? What’s going on? Why am I here?” Starlight asked, Starlight was wearing a yellow robe with light pink slippers. 

“Aunt Starlight! Can you and Aunt Tempest sing me a lullaby?” Harmonia whined. Starlight and Tempest looked at each other in confusion. Starlight giggled and made a little music box in the air appear. 

“What song is this exactly?” Tempest mumbles to Starlight. 

Starlight winks. “Just watch and listen to Tempest.” she whispers back.

Starlight grinned as Harmonia closed her eyes and fell asleep. Starlight kissed her niece on the forehead and motioned Tempest to follow her. Tempest quietly closed the door and turned to Starlight who was still holding the music box with her magic. 

“Where did you learn that song, Starlight?” Tempest asked the pastel lavender unicorn. 

“Well, When I was little and when I was feeling scared or lonely, my parents would always sing it to me. It always helps calm me.” Starlight explains. “I haven’t sung it in ages, really.” Starlight replied, looking at the music box. 

“Indeed, it is a beautiful song.” Mutters Tempest. 

“Really? You really think so?” Starlight asked, looking at Tempest in wonder. 

“Of course.” Said Tempest. Starlight blushed and cleared her throat. 

“Have you heard from Twilight? She was supposed to come back today, but I haven't heard or even seen her at all.” Tempest asked, making the music box disappear out of sight. 

“No I haven’t. She’s probably busy with her friendship mission or she’s probably coming home now! I can’t wait to tell her that we have successfully taken care of her daughter without doing anything wrong!” Starlight said, proudly. 

“You do realize that Pinkie Pie had her for like two days right? I mean I had to go and pick her up from Sugar Cube Corner.” Tempest explains. 

“Right! Anyways, I think I should get some sleep! Goodnight Tempest!” Starlight said, turning towards the hallway. 

“Goodnight! Starlight!” Said Tempest, who walks in the other direction.


*** 

“Come on Harmonia, sweetie! Let mommy and Daddy help you with this next spell.” Twilight said. 

In her vision, she saw Discord and Harmonia having fun, she smiled with tears in her eyes as she tried to reach out to them, but she could only speak to them. 

“No! I don't want to be the next in line to take your throne Mommy! I want to be like Daddy and spread chaos everywhere!” Harmonia gave her mother a wicked grin. 

“What! You do realize that you are the next heir to the throne, right?” Twilight questions her daughter. 

“Yes, but I don't have to follow in your hoofsteps.” Harmonia sasses. 

“You’re the heir to mine and your father’s throne you have too.” Twilight said. 

“Do you know what will happen if you are out of control with your powers? You will get turned to stone! Just ask your father if you don’t believe me.” Twilight said, her tone sound stern. 

Twilight then closes her eyes, deeply breathing to give Harmonia another lecture, however when she opened them again her whole demeanor changed. 

She was now standing alone in the Canterlot Gardens, staring at not only Discord but at her own daughter’s stone statue as well. 

Twilight’s breath caught in her throat, she sat there unmoving and utterly broken as tears streamed down her face. She was struggling, even choking on her own words to get out but couldn’t. “W-what?” she squeaks, her voice small and inaudible almost but still loud enough to hear. 

She broke down crying, looking at both of their stone face statues. She then took her husband and daughter's expressions. 

Twilight noticed that their eyes resembled a villian, one that she defeated long ago. Their eyes were both green, with red irises and a thin trail of a purple mist coming from the corners. 

Sombra. 


***


She felt groggy, as she tried opening her eyes, but her vision was blurry. She looked around slowly, realizing that she was in a cage of some sorts. When she opened her eyes, she was hallucinating a bit from the dark magic. 

Everything felt so real. 

Twilight snapped back into reality, looking at Sombra, with a shocked look on her face.

“So you're awake my queen…” Sombra said as he chuckled a little, he circled around the cage where Twilight was held, the cage was electrified with dark magic, dark electricity surging around the bars.

“Try shooting a beam at me...let's see how that works out…” He demands. 


Twilight tries to shoot a beam at Sombra, but sadly backfired. The cage charged an electric shock towards Twilight, the ground pulsing the same current of electricity.

“You have no idea how much volts that will fry that smart brain of yours...but I would love to preserve that for my lovely queen…” He laughed as he appeared out of the shadows. 

Twilight looks at him, her eyes narrowed. “Why are you doing this?” She asks. 

Sombra looks at her, a sly look on his face. “I simply wanted to lure you...to make you my bride, so your childish friendship problem was the only way to lure you out of the light...and into the shadows...but now that I have you…” He chuckled.

“We can start making things comfortable for you…” He said as he opened the cage, but the tentacles wrapped Twilight on the neck and wings.


“You have no idea how much time it took me to..."Get back" here…” He laughed. 

Twilight stayed silent, as Sombra continued.”Leave that gritty past behind you! And look to your wonderful future...your potential towards dark magic is spectacular! You can be my lovely queen, Princess of Friendship…” He said as he neared her.

“Why would I want anything to do with you?” Twilight spats. 

“I want you to use Dark magic...I want to see how much you can handle!” He explains. 

Twilight looks at him with distaste, remaining silent. “Don't be so delusional dear…” He coos. 

The tentacle lifted her chin up roughly, it forced her to look at Sombra. “After that battle in the Crystal Empire...I saw how much power you can wield, how much I can teach you!” He said as he neared his face on hers.

“Don't you want to learn more...don't you want to feel what I feel! The knowledge, the beautiful taste of power and all of its Glory?” He said as he grinned at her.

Twilight remained silent. “Think of all the terrible things your ex-husband did to you…” He laughed and his eyes turned into it's hypnotic state, as he placed hallucinations on Twilight, changing her memories, little by little, destroying her sanity. 

Twilight eyes filled with tears at the visions that she was seeing.

“I feel great hatred in you…” He exhaled as he felt the anger in her, surging like no other. He then looked at Twilight, her eyes changing.

“Feel the change dear, you have much more to feel…” He laughed as memories of Harmonia turning into a chaotic wreck appeared.

“Can you feel...what I feel..?” He asks, grinning at her, his eyes emitting purple aura.

Twilight eyes glowed white resisting the urge. 

She looks at Sombra, her eyes narrowed with hatred. "You are nothing but a shadow!" She sneers.

 “A shadow who can crawl back into the dark corners of your mind...that's what I am…” He laughed as he stared at Twilight, trying to amp up the hatred in her.


“Don't resist...take it all in!” He said as he smiled at Twilight, his sharp teeth appeared.

“Open your eyes, and forget all the painful things that happened to you before...let me make you happy…” He laughed as his eyes glowed purple, becoming an aura of power.

Twilight heard the sound of a hard thud from Sombra.She looks at him. Her eyes narrowed. 


"I will never be like you. I am not your equal!" She sneers at the dark stallion.

Sombra gets up slowly, his face half a shadow and half stallion, he looks at Twilight with half of his face trying to go back to its original state.

“Yet you resist, when I try to show you how much power I could've given you...and you throw it like trash...no matter, it will take time until you snap!” He said as the tentacles threw her back in her cage, the cage started it's electrical current once more.

Twilight eyes narrowed at him. “Ha! Like that will ever happen.” Twilight voice leaked with sarcasm. 

“It will happen...just wait until I get your daughter…” He smirks. 

“And you're gonna regret that you said that, Princess…” He laughed as he circled her once more.

“And to think that, you and your daughter...have a special connection...let me sever that for you…” He looked at her straight in the eye. 

Twilight gasped. “Don't you dare lay a hoof on my daughter!” She sneers at Sombra. 

"I won't if you just sign this contract." Sombra chides, poofing a contact into exists. 

Twilight looks at the contract and the quill that was in front of her. “What’s the catch?” Twilight asked. 

“There’s no catch.” Sombra said. 

Twilight gave him a deadly look, not believing the tyrant. 

“.... okay there is one, however that’s my little secret. So you can call it a blind agreement.” Sombra muses. 

Twilight stared at the contract. “I… I don’t know.” Twilight mutters staring at it. 

“If you back down from this contract then I can and will harm your daughter as I wish and there is nothing you can do to stop me. Poor Harmonia, her mind and heart so pure and yet I can play with it as I please...I will show you how much hatred I can shove in her…” He neared Twilight, his face still regenerating from the blast that he took. 

“Then, and only then, you will beg for mercy...and you will be my queen…” He smirked at Twilight. 

“I can also make her lose control just so you can watch your precious daughter get turned to stone.” Sombra eyes glowered with hatred. 

Twilight looks at the king, her eyes filled with tears. 

“Fine! Fine! I’ll sign the contract!” Twilight cries, tears streaming down her face as she closed her eyes shut as she signs away her life to the devil. 

Make a deal with a devil, who knew how easy it was to get her to sign a corrupted contract. 

“Now, rest that weak body of yours Princess...soon I will weaken it more with each moment that I torture you...and I will also have little friends to tag along on this ride…” He laughed at her.

Twilight breathing going raggedy. “Friends? ....What friends?” She asks, her tone cautious. 

“The ones you exiled...along with me. Now we will have our revenge against you and your little ponies…” He said as he grabbed his Psyche, hitting the blade onto the bars. 

“Soon, you will see familiar faces…” He laughed as his face was done regenerating.

Twilight's breath was still ragged, but her voice filled with determination and confidence. “My friends and I will stop you.” She said. 

“I'd like to see you try…” Sombra chuckles a little, as he slammed the blade onto the bars, making her scared.

He slammed the blade onto the Rocky ground, the blade stuck into it. “I'd really like to see you try…” he swears at her. 

Twilight looks at him with her emotion filled with nothing but hate for King Sombra. 

“It happened to me once, and it will not happen again…” He mutters, as he faded back into the shadows, the chamber suddenly turned silent. 
> Chapter 16: Darkness Within
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Fluttershy all met up in Twilight’s castle, when they knocked on the door Starlight answers. 

“Oh, hey guys, what brings you here?” She questions the girls, who each were holding gifts for the Princess of Friendship. 

Starlight’s eyes landed on the five gifts before her. “And have gifts? But it’s not Twilight’s birthday, today.” she explains. 

Rarity giggles. “Oh no darling we know it’s not Twilight’s birthday, we just wanted to check up on her, it's been weeks since we haven’t talked to her, or-” Rarity said, trailing off a bit into her own thoughts. 

“Hung out with her!” Rainbow Dash blurts out. 

“Ate with her.” Said Applejack. 

“Laughed with her!” Pinkie Pie said. 

“Or even relaxed with her.” Came the voice of the timid and shy pegasus, Fluttershy. 

The five of them explained to Starlight, the kids already made their way up the staircase to the door where their parents stood. Starlight thought for a moment, they did make excellent points. 

Confetti Pop was the first child to speak up out of the five that were present. “Where is Aunt Twilight?” she asks. 

“She’s out doing a friendship mission, but it’s been weeks since she has yet to return home, her cutie mark is still glowing on the map.” Starlight explains to the young filly.

Rarity gave a perplexed look. “That can’t be right, the Twilight I know would come back after a friendship mission on time!” Rarity said. 

Applejack thought for a moment. 

“How long did you say that she was gone for?” Asked Rainbow Dash. 

“Four weeks, you guys wanna come in? It’s hot outside.” Starlight asks, as she offers hospitality to her friends. She opened the door wider to let the girls in, they all came in with their gifts and the kids followed behind their mothers. 

“I have a bad feeling about this, girls…” Mutters Fluttershy, as she let her worries for her friend worsen for a moment.

Applejack places her hoof on her friend's shoulder. “Don’t be worrying too much, sugarcube, she’s probably handling a big friendship problem.” Applejack said, her tone assuring. 

“But what friendship problem takes nearly four weeks?!” Shrieks Pinkie Pie. 

“Probably the whole town has got a friendship problem?” HoneyCrisp suggests. 

“It’s probably just a big friendship problem, nothing to worry about.” Meadow Bliss said, his tone calm. 

“Where was she last summoned to?” Applejack asks Starlight. 

“The Crystal Empire, the Cutie Map led her there, come on I’ll show you.” Said Starlight. She opened the chamber door to the throne room, revealing the Cutie Map and Twilight’s cutie mark still glowing and hovering over the Crystal Empire. 

“The Crystal Empire, do you think it might be Shining and Cadence?” Questions Rarity, who gazes at the map. 

“Maybe, wait where’s Harmonia?” Fluttershy questions. 

“Upstairs still sleeping.” Answers another voice from behind, it was no other than Tempest Shadow. 

“Can we visit her?” Asks Cotton Berry. 

“Yeah, I wanna see her and her shiny-” Ophelia said. 

“Oh no you don’t.” Warns Meadow Bliss. 

“Now, now children that’s enough, why don’t you go check on Harmonia while we take a look at Twilight’s Friendship Map, maybe it will tell us about Twilight’s whereabouts.” Said Rarity. 

Rainbow Dash flew into the throne room. “Yeah, let’s!” 


***

“I swear this castle looked a lot smaller on the outside.” complains Prism. 

“Do any of you know where her room is?” Honey Crisp asks, looking on both sides of her which was filled with nothing, but doors. 

Ophelia stops at Harmonia's bedroom door. “If I recall it's this one.” She said. Ophelia knocks a little not wanting to disturb her friend.

“Harmonia darling, it's me Ophelia, may we come in?” Ophelia asks. 

The six of them waited for her to answer.

“She's asleep dummy, maybe she left her door open!” Prism said. 

“Now don't you be doing that Prism! It's rude to barge into somepony's room remember?” Honey Crisp warns. 

Ophelia knocked again, they heard a groan from the other side. 

“Who's out there…” Harmonia's voice, muffled through the door.

“It's only us darling. “ Said Ophelia 

“Come in.” Announces Harmonia. 

They all came in, Harmonia rubbing her eyes and head. “What time is it…” she asks.  

“It's already afternoon darling, you sleep very late do you?” Ophelia asks, slightly concerned for her friend. 

Honey Crisp sat beside Harmonia giving her a warm hug. “How are you?” she asks, her tone buttery sweet and soft. 

The other four laying their gifts on the side of the bed.

 “Just gonna leave that…” Prism laid his gift carefully on the ground, it was a Wonderbolt vase made out of gem rocks and golden linings on them. He owed the others after placing his gift.


 “She's gonna love this.” Meadow Bliss placed a bouquet of flowers near the nightstand, wrapped around nice and neat.

“It's been awhile since we talked, Harmonia, how are things?” Cotton Berry asks. 

“There going okay I guess… I just miss my mom, do you guys know where she is?” Harmonia asks. 


“Don't be worrying too much, she's fine.” Honey Crisp assures her friend, as she rubbed her friends back, Ophelia fixing Harmonia's messy mane.

“Relax Harmony, she's just doing a friendship problem.” Prism said, his tone relaxed. 

“I just mean… the last I heard she was in the Crystal Empire with Aunt Cadence and Uncle Shining, and she told me she was going to be gone for two days....” Harmonia said, her voice filled with nervousness and worry.

“Well, you see she's not…. She’s actually been gone for four weeks… ”Ophelia replied to Harmonia, Harmonia's eyes widened with worry when she heard about it, she then teleports off of her bed with a snap of her paw. 


“Nice work Ophelia, you just triggered another problem.” mutters Prism. 

“Well what do you want me to say!?” snaps Ophelia. 

They both argued for a bit while the other three followed Harmonia downstairs.


***


The mane 5 along with Starlight and Tempest planned a search party around the Cutie Map, Harmonia barged in, her eyes filled with tears.

“Where's mom?” Harmonia asked, as she was ready to cry her heart out again.
Starlight ran up to her and hugged her tightly.

“Sweetheart, we're doing the best we can to find Twilight ok? Relax we'll find her.” Starlight hugged Harmonia tightly, as she sobbing.

“I know, since there are 14 of us, we split up, the first group will go with 8 members, and the other with 6, that way we can search faster!” Honey Crisp beamed with the idea, everyone looked at her with the idea coming into play.

“Now I like your thinking!” Prism said, pumped up and ready to go.

“Splendid idea, only one question, where do we start searching?” Ophelia asked, standing next to Honey Crisp.

 “Well the only place her cutie mark is hovering over is about the Crystal Empire.” Rainbow Dash looked at the map, then nodded.

“Maybe you should start there?” Tempest said, as she was about to open the front door.

“Splendid! Let's get searching, we have a friend to find. Onward!” Rarity cheered with the others. All of the girls and kids left leaving Starlight and Harmonia behind.

“Shh, it's alright sweetie, we'll find your mom ok?” Starlight said, reassuring the young filly she was comforting.

“Yes…” Harmonia replied, wiping her tears. She let out with determination, Harmonia and Starlight stood up and followed the rest to the Crystal Empire.


***


“Ok, the first group of 8 should look at the castle and the market, the second group of 6 shall search through town.” Rarity led the first group, Applejack led the second group to the Town.

The groups started splitting up, looking at their designated locations.

“I hope we find her soon, it might get dark out and you know what happens in the dark!” Pinkie Pie playfully said, nudging Rarity as she giggled a little.

“Now is not the  time to be joking around Pinkie, this is very serious.” Rarity said, her tone unamused and blunt.

Harmonia Followed the first group along with Starlight. “Where could mom be?” Her tone is still worried and concerned.

“She might be at the Crystal Empire with Princess Cadence, still. Let's search there!” Starlight carried her niece on her back.


The first group ran towards the castle, nearing a large courtyard.

Starlight walked up to the staircase first, followed by the group, she knocked on the door. Only to be answered by Cadence.

“Oh Starlight good afternoon! What brings you he-...” Cadence beamed, but lost it when she saw everyone behind Starlight, Starlight held a serious expression. Pinkie pie waved behind everyone, her smile giving the seriousness away.

“I see you brought guests, do you guys wanna come in?” Cadence opened the door for the group to come in, offering hospitality.


 “Not now princess, we have an emergency, you see your sister in law is missing for four week!” Starlight said, her tone was filled with worry.

Cadence was shocked, Shining heard them and he opened the door completely.

“My sister is missing!?” Shining yelled, his voice echoed outside, everypony looked at him.

“Yes! And we wanted to know if you happen to know where she went after she visited you!” Starlight asked, interrogating the white unicorn in front of her.

 “All we remember was she went back home because she thought there was a friendship problem here!” Shining snapped, his worry for her sister started growing.

“What kind of friendship problem?” Starlight asked Cadence beside Shining. 

“Well she thought it was us fighting!” Cadence answered, her tone worried. 

 “But you guys never fought before, this is strange…” Starlight thought for a moment.

“We can't let up yet!” Pinkie Pie beamed at the whole group. 

“She's right, maybe there's a sign to where she went next!” Rainbow Dash replied, she hovered waiting for the others to move on.

The 2 kids along with Harmonia searched for traces or signs of Twilight’s presence, they saw a faint outline of hooves headed towards the outskirts of the Empire where a giant gate stood nearby was a forest Outlook and a train station.

“Maybe mom went back home!” Harmonia thought, she followed the traces and ran as fast as she could.

“Harmonia, wait!” Starlight followed the young filly. Starlight gallops after Harmonia. Once she caught up to her she was slightly out of breath.

“..... Harmonia, you know better than to run off like that.” Starlight said, scolding her niece.

Harmonia said nothing, but to look at where her mother's tracks stopped. “She must be here...she has to be…” Harmonia frantically scouting the ground, she wipes her tears, still not giving up from looking for her mother, Harmonia gathered herself together, cooled down just like how her mother taught her. 

“Are you feeling better now sweetheart?” Starlight brushed the mane of her niece, calming her down.

“Yeah, I'm fine! She must be nearby, if the trails stopped here, then why is she not in Ponyville yet?” Harmonia questions her aunt, hugging her tightly.

“Why would there be a Crystal forest on the outskirts of The Crystal Empire?” Starlight asked. 

“Who cares?! This is gorgeous!” Rarity said, admiring Mistmane’s elegant gardening skills. 

“Oh! You can thank our Crystal Gardener, Mistmane- however we never asked her to make a Crystal Forest.” Cadence explains. 

“We didn’t honey. Trust me I’d remember if we did- but we didn’t. Something isn’t right.” Mutters Shining Armor. 

“Daddy? What is Miss. Mistmane’s work on the outskirts of The Empire? I thought it always stays within the Crystal Empire?”  Crystal questions. 

“It does. She never has her work this far out.” Mutters Flurry Heart. 

Starlight begins to think to herself for a moment. “Hmm… something feels off.” Starlight mutters to herself. 

Starlight stuck a hoof out, but her hoof went through the glistening exterior. “What?!” Starlight wonders, she waves her hoof again through it. 

“It’s… it’s holographic?! But how and why?” Starlight questions. 

“What do you mean holographic?” Prism asked. 

“She means it’s transparent or see through darling.” Rarity exclaims. 

“Like an illusion?” Meadow Bliss questions. 

“Exactly!” Starlight exclaims. 

“But if this is an illusion then why would somepony go through so much trouble to set this up?” HoneyCrisp wonders. 

“This setup seems to be well thought out, something tells me this was the work of somepony who wanted Twilight to follow them to this remote location. But who?” Cadence said. 

 “I think I know why… Let me dispel this illusion so we can see what we are working with.” Starlight said, she charges her horn and with her spell in mind she fires it at the forest. 

The group watches as the spell slowly but surely dissolved into revealing what the location truly was: A forest covered in darkness and mist. 

 Starlight’s eyes widened, she pointed to the forest Outlook, still seeing hoofprints.

Harmonia looks at her aunt confused. 

“What is this place?” Harmonia looked at her aunt.

“Stay behind me sweetie.” Starlight warns her niece, she carries Harmonia to her back and she proceeds with the first group into the woods.

“Oh my, she went here? Why on Equestria would she go here!?” Rarity looked around her environment, seeing mud, and dirty leaves moving around.

“Whatever it is I'm not liking this…” Pinkie Pie placed her daughter and son behind her, then continued.


“Shining, Cadence. Give your kids to the girls for a while, we don't want them getting lost in there. Harmonia stay behind me.” Starlight instructed the two.

Cadence and Shining followed Starlight's instructions.

“Kids, I need you to wait here, me and daddy are gonna be back soon ok?” The two kids nodded as they stayed behind Rarity and Pinkie Pie.

“Just be careful, ok?” Crystal said, her tone worried.

Flurry and Crystal hugged their mother, Harmonia looked at them, her face changed from determined to a little bit of sadness, but she shook the feeling off, she followed Starlight into the forest, Rarity and Cadence were side to side, Shining behind them with a spear levitated with his horn.

“We don't know what's in here so get ready for anything that comes our way!” Rarity preps herself for the worse to come.

“Don't worry...I got this…” A crow passes by, Shining's eyes widened, stabbing a tree trunk with his spear, The four looked at Shining, their eyes narrowed.

“I'm sorry...just tensed…” Shining gulped a little.

Fluttershy tensed up at the sound of the crow. 

Light fog covered the ground. As leaves crunched under their hooves. 

“This looks like the Everfree Forest, but way creepier!” Fluttershy hid behind Shining and Cadence, hugging his son at the same time.


“ No kidding, this is worse than the Everfree, it feels like Tartarus in here…” Rainbow Dash said, looking at the dead trees and falling branches.

 “This is not the lifestyle our Twilight would want!” Rarity kicked a few rocks out of the way, and wiped her hooves simultaneously “so much for fashion…” she said, looking at the mud on her hooves.


 “You won't be needing fashion in this part of Equestria.” Cadence said slightly annoyed by Rarity’s whining.

“No kidding! So Starlight dear, would you mind telling us what's our current situation?” Rarity questions the unicorn in front of her.

 “Well to be honest. I feel like we are in the middle of nowhere!” Starlight said looking around in her environment, Rarity's smile turned into big frown.

“Well at least we're all together right?” Pinkie Pie beamed slightly, not wanting to trigger an argument.

“I believe optimistic beliefs are not on our side today Pinkie…” Rarity said wiping a few mud sticks off of her hooves.

“Aw come on Rarity, will find a way back! Besides we have…” Pinkie looked at the ground, their tracks unseen


“Relax, I got this.” Cadence lights up her horn.

“That's more like it! Do you still see tracks?” Rarity questioned Cadence.

The others stopped, something suspicious about where Shining was walking into.

“This doesn't look right, why would Twilight stop here?” Starlight Questions Cadence confused on what's happening.


“I think I know why!” Cadence yells, looking at the scratch marks and parts of a tree split apart.

“Mom...” Harmonia started crying a little, Starlight hugged her niece tightly.


“Listen to me sweetie, your mother is powerful ok? She knows how to escape this! But where did she go?” Starlight muttered the last bit to herself, but she kept looking around for the trail.

“What if Aunt Twilight got captured?” Confetti looks at everyone, they're faces confused.

The kids and mothers look at Confetti with a muted look. 

“What!?” She whines. 

“Confetti, that's stupid.” Prism states bluntly.

“But think about it! She was here right? HELLO THERE ARE MARKINGS EVERYWHERE!” She gestures everywhere around them.

She exhales, the fog moved away revealing so many markings of something coming out of the ground, scratch marks and more.

“She may be right about this guys…” Harmonia looked at the big scratch marks around them.

”But where was she taken to…” Starlight looked around and thought for a moment

“Didn't see that one coming!” Prism let's out, surprised by Confetti's theory.

“Judging by that big head of yours from the last fiasco at school, yeah you definitely didn't see that coming” Meadow Bliss made fun of Prism.

 “And who's asking you!” Prism bluntly stated towards Meadow Bliss.

“No need to be hot headed.” Meadow Bliss state, meditating a little.

“Judging by these marks…” Starlight muttered.

She brought out a book from her saddle bag, opening some pages.

“These markings looked like the ones Sombra had…” Starlight looked at the picture, her eyes widened.

“But that's impossible, we stopped him before!” Shining looked around the area, a lot of thoughts around his mind.

Starlight showed him the markings then the pictures in the book, the two looked similar.

“Looks like you didn't stop him completely!” Starlight said to Shining, she placed the book back in her saddle bag.

“Well we have to do something!” Shining said, as he searched around for clues.


 “We don't know where he even took her!” Cadence yelled at Shining, tears streaming down her eyes.

“We got our lead!” Starlight looked towards the north side.

She illuminates her horn, revealing drag tracks, the second group caught up.

“We didn't find Twilight in the town, luckily we found you guys, and I bet she's right around here somewhere!” Applejack panted heavily slightly tired.

“Let's keep our hopes up...come on!” Starlight said, filled with determination.

She pushes forward, along with everyone along with the kids.


***


Twilight was laying down on the cold hard ground, sniffling a bit as she remembered every bit of happy thought she had left, but she never lost hope, she sat up looking at the dimly lit up chamber, cold air brushing her fur.

“I do hope you feel comfortable in there...might I replace your cage with something comfortable.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant. 

The cage was replaced with dark crystals- sharp crystals- surrounding Twilight, not stabbing or hitting her with its sharpness, Twilight's eyes widened at the sight.

“Underneath the catacombs of the Crystal Empire, makes a good place for a "shadow" like me to rest...isn't that right Princess...and soon, every night I will hunt down every last pony around this Empire, making it mine…” Sombra explains, as he chuckled a little.

“I don't have to agree with you.” She scoffs.  Her eyes narrowed at him. “I know my friends are probably looking for me by now.” Twilight’s tone was filled with hope and confidence. 

“They'll meet the same fate as you Ms Sparkle, and they will not like the ending of it...as for your daughter, you'll be begging for mercy I tell you…” He said as he neared her face.

“Besides you couldn't even save your own relationship with that damn soft hearted tyrant…” He laughed.

Twilight eyes widen. “It wasn't even my fault.” she cries out. 

“Let's not go to any rational explanations, it's your fault for not being the "strong mare" you really are, you could've done something horrible to that monstrosity of a princess who got your sweet soft hearted husband…” Sombra said, cackling. 

“Think about it, what would happen if you did something horrible to your mentor… or ex mentor I should say. Then, things could've gone swiftly with you and Discord.Yet you chose to be the strong type of mare...which brings us to this problem you are facing right now...all I wanted was to make you happy…” He grinned at her.

Sombra gave her a sincere smile. “So… let me make you happy…” He said, his tone soft. 

Twilight scoffed. “I don't even see how somepony like you could make anypony happy.” She said, slightly unamused. 

“Don't underestimate me Princess...I could turn your world upside down…” He said as the Crystal's changed color, signifying the feeling he has. The Crystal's changed to color red, revealing anger.

Twilight’s eyes widened, tears forming in her eyes as she felt powerless over Sombra’s presence, she sobbed as she remembered her friends in the Crystal cage she was now locked in.

“Don't worry my dear, things are about to go downhill real fast…” he laughed at Twilight as he left the chamber, leaving Twilight sobbing to herself.


***


Celestia sits in her throne room, deep in thought. She sighs as she looks over papers. Suddenly, a letter appeared in front of her. She unrolls the scroll, reading over it. 

Her eyes scanned over it, once… twice. She gasped as she just read.
> Chapter 17: Too Late For Me
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia races down the halls, looking for her sister and husband. “Discord, Luna!” she calls out, her tone was frantic and worried. After the letter that she had received, she couldn’t help but feel like all of this was her fault.

“Discord, Luna!” she calls out once again. 

Luna bumps into her sister filled with distress, she quickly stands up.

"What's happening Tia? Is there an international crisis on our hooves?" She says, her tone exhausted and tired from running, she wipes the dust off of her hoofs. 

Luna pants, trying to catch her breath, she then takes a moment to relax and look at her frantic sister.

"Now tell me what's wrong." She said as she finally relaxed, looking at her sister with concern.

Discord appeared beside Luna, “What’s wrong?” He asked, concerned for his wife. 

Discord takes the letter from Celestia, Discord read the first half of the note, Discord's eyes were filled with tears, as he saw what was written on the letter.

"What is it? Is it something wrong?" Luna questioned Discord, she then turned her attention to Celestia, her eyes filled with tears, she then turned her attention to Discord.

"It's something worse than that..." He crumpled the note and he teleported out of the Castle, Luna's eyes widened at the sight. "Where is he off to this time!" She questions her sister.

Celestia teleports out as well, leaving Luna frustrated and angry, she opens the note and her eyes widened, she quickly goes to the throne room alerting the royal guards.

“Guards!” She commands. 


***

Twilight lost count of how long she had been held captive here, but if she had to guess it would have been moons. She also hated to admit it, but Sombra hasn't been all that horrible to her. He has his days sure, but he wasn't that cruel.

Twilight looks around her chamber. Sombra emerges from the shadows.

Sombra circled around Twilight like he always does, Sombra wickedly grinning at Twilight, and turned his attention to her cage. "You truly are a keeper, for surviving this long in my sanctuary, yet you resist my love for you, how is that Ms Sparkle?" He questions Twilight with a wicked grin on his face.

Twilight looks at her capture. "Because I don't have feelings for you!" She narrows her eyes at him. 

"But... I gave you everything you desire. What more do you want?" He questions the young Alicorn. 

"I want my freedom." She explains.

"And I gave that to you, but as for seeing your loving daughter?" He said with a wicked expression on Sombra's face, he neared Twilight's face in-between the bars "You will never see Harmonia again, because you're going to be, what I always dreamed about..." He laughed at Twilight as he backed off from the cage.

Twilight eyes widened with fear as tears aligned her eyes. Fear swept through her body like a tornado.

"Let's see how you like it, when hatred surges through you..." The Chambers lights opened up, revealing Crystal's alignment at the cage, dark magic surging from each crystal. "Soon your friends will fear you, your ex-husband will fear you, and soon, your daughter will fear you, with this magic I can make you into my own kin, my own wife..." He said, grinning wickedly. 

He pauses for a moment thinking. "You know you should be grateful that I'm trying to make you happy! Such a shame that all this would've gone smoothly if you didn't resist..." He cackles at Twilight.

Twilight tried her best to blast the darkened crystals, but failed as her magic backfired on her. 

Fear still swept through her. She felt like panicking, her eyes darted around the room, trying to find another way of escaping, but she was stuck, for the first time in forever she had no plan in mind.

"I want you to yell, cry in front of me, begging me to stop this from ever happening to you, because this will be the last time that you'll be seeing the light of day...My Queen..." He laughed as he illuminated the Crystal's, all of the electric current now strikes the cage, electrocuting Twilight painfully.

Twilight clenched her teeth, her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving. 

Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

"These "friends" of yours will soon cower in fear, your daughter will even coward and fear you..." He laughed as he could imagine the daughter's torment. He felt the Intruders coming nearer, but he was calm.

"Everyone you cared and loved, will succumb to your hate...and fear..." Sombra said, his voice sly and coy. 


***


The mane 5 followed the trail that leads to a solid door, the flooring were cobblestone bricks that were leading to the temple, everyone stopped running.

"What's the hold up, Twilight needs us!" Rainbow Dash said to Starlight, her tone was filled with worry.

Starlight tried to figure out how to open the door, "Hang on, give me a moment!"

Discord looked behind them seeing a horde headed their way.

"WE DON'T HAVE A MOMENT!"  Discord yells as he moves everyone aside, Discord snaps his fingers that opened the solid door, everyone went inside as Discord shut the door tightly, The creatures were pounding the solid door.

Sunset painted, catching her breath, she then looked at the group, everyone was panting from exhaustion. "How is everypony?"

 All of them replied "We're fine." 

Starlight continued forward, following the prints that led to a staircase headed downstairs, the halls were slightly illuminated by dimly lit candles that lead them to alcoves and hallways. They slowly reached the chamber where they saw a cage in the middle, revealing a pony inside. Everyone held their position as Starlight went forward.


*** 

Twilight screams in pain, trying her best to hang on to what little sanity she had left. The children and Mane 5, along with Discord, Shining and the Princesses. They all witness the horrific scene being played before them. 

“Twilight!” They shout in unison, worried for their friend. 

“Mom!” Harmonia said, who was equally worried. 

Twilight couldn’t hear the sound of anypony shouting her name. She fell upon deaf ears, the only sound was the sound of a constant buzzing and electrical shock.  

Discord and others ran towards the cage, but did not dare to get too close. In the midst of all of this Sombra was lurking in the shadows. 

"Ah, you all arrived, so nice of you to join our little family together..." Echoes a voice. 

"Release her, Now!" Both Starlight and Sunset said in unison. 

Sombra appears out of the lurking shadows as he stands beside Twilight’s cage, and gives a grin at the group. He stops the electromagnetic shock, to let Twilight breathe. 

Twilight stood her ground, standing there staring at the cold metal ground as tears fell from her eyes. 

"I hope your travels weren’t bothersome..." He soothes. 

“Besides you’re just in time for the show to begin.” Sombra said, gazing at the Mane 5 and the kids. The King of Shadows especially had his eyes on Harmonia as a wicked and satisfied look was displayed on his face towards her. 

He turned his attention back to Twilight, who was still wincing in pain. She let out a blood-curdling scream. He walks towards them slowly, with his scythe levitated by his magic, as he drags the blade on to the ground. He hits the blade on the forcefield around the cage, he grins at Starlight, giving a slight chuckle.

"Remove this forcefield so I can kick your flank back to wherever you came from!" Starlight yells. 

"Don't make me laugh mortal, I am making her beautiful, can't you see?" Sombra asked. 

Sombra hits the side of the cage with the blade of the Scythe, startling Twilight-who jumps in fear. 

“And trust me it’s to die for.” Sombra said, smirking. 

“Why if it isn’t my old two foes Celestia and Luna. Come to witness your greatest fear?” Sombra asked, smirking at the two. 

"Let her go Sombra! It's time you face Equestrian Justice! She doesn’t deserve this torture.” Celestia said, her tone rather determined. 

“Oh yeah? Then why did you two drive her to the brink of her own insanity and downfall in the first place? Besides take a look in the mirror Princess, did you give her justice...” Sombra questioned. 

Celestia said nothing, but gave a cold stare at her foe. However, he was right about one thing, if none of this happened maybe they wouldn’t be where they are now.

Sombra moves his eyes over to Discord, Sombra let’s on a malicious but satisfied grin. 

Starlight, stepped through looking at King Sombra with hatred in her eyes, her horn charged as well. 

“You’re going to give us Twilight back, whether you like it or not. I’m not sure why you even need Twilight in the first place or what twisted and sick game you are playing, but it stops now!” Starlight yelled, her tone pissed.  

“Let my sister go!” Shining said, his eyes narrowed at Sombra as his sword was drawn. 

“Oh I would not be so quick to pull that sword, Prince.” Sombra warns. 

Shining moves his eyes from him to his sister. “Just hang in there Twily.” Shining said. 

“Gah! I’m trying!” Twilight said, her teeth bared, as her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving. Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

Her head throbs, worse than it ever has before. She couldn't speak, being shocked really took the power of her words and her own process of thinking. 

She screamed out in pain. Everything ached on her and through her with her head bothering her the most.

Twilight lays down, her body weak, she cried out for her friends, her eyes changing slowly like Sombra's.

"Please, STOP THIS!" Twilight pleads, but Sombra didn't listen, Twilight stood up automatically, her body changing, her fur changing as well as her eyes. 

"Now, you'll feel what I feel..." Sombra laughs at Twilight as she tried to resist the change.

Twilight gasped for air, as tears streamed down her face. “N-no….” she whimpers, trying to resist for as long as she needs to.

"Are you going to give up now Twilight Sparkle, or should I amp the pain even more..." He laughed as he turned up the currency of the electricity that's hitting the cage.

However, Twilight’s teeth were beard and were slowly beginning to sharpen. As her head continued to pound, the emotions that she never wished to feel she actually felt: hate and fear as they slowly crept into her mind. 

“This is your last warning.” Starlight threatens, her horn charged with power. 

The others tried to ram the force field down, even Harmonia and Discord tried to use their chaotic magic, but to no avail nothing worked. 

“Please just hang in there mom.” Harmonia said. 

Twilight laid on the ground her breathing getting heavier- as tears streamed down her face, her head continued to pound, like a headache, but far worse.

“You know your mom is a powerful alicorn right little one? Well your about to witness how powerful she can really be.” Sombra snears. 

Harmonia eyes widen at her mother’s wings- larger than her own- piercing through the electromagnetic bars breaking the metal pieces. 

Confetti Pop was shaking in her hooves, as she held out a cross- from Celestia knows where she got it from. 

“Confetti put the cross way.” Mutters Cotton Berry. 

Confetti nervously shook her head no. 

Twilight screams once more, as Sombra lets out  a victorious laughter. He lets down the forcefield surrounding both Twilight and himself. 

Sombra laughs maliciously, knowing that he has won. 

He also lets down Twilight’s cage-preparing her to destroy the ponies she once cared so deeply about. Without second guessing herself, Starlight suddenly lunged for Twilight as she grabbed her and tossed her to the hard cobblestone wall-pinning her down. 

“What do you think you are doing?!” Sombra asked. 

“Saving our princess from you!” Starlight seethed. 

“Just hang in there a little long Twi.” Starlight begs. 

“Gah!” Twilight growls, as her breathing rapidly. 

“Aunt Starlight! Hurry!” Harmonia cries out. 

Without a second thought, Starlight ignites her horn, casting her spell into Twilight’s horn and memory- hoping to erase the dark magic that was brought by Sombra. 

“Please work.” Starlight mutters. 

Minutes later, Twilight blinked, slightly confused as Starlight helped her up, but she felt dizzy, as she started to stand on all fours. 

“Now to deal with you.” Starlight said, her teeth bared looking at Sombra. 

Sombra scoffed. “And what is an incompetent, power hungry unicorn going to do exactly? Twilight only chose you because she felt sorry for you. She never wanted to be your friend in the first place.” Sombra said, smirking at Starlight. 

Starlight’s eyes widened, without thinking she released a large burst of energy at Sombra, her aura enveloped him into nothing, but smoke and shadow-like wisps.

Twilight looks at her family and friends, unsure of what to say. I mean besides the fact that Starlight just obliterated Sombra into nothingness. 

“Twilight? Are you alright?” Shining asked, worried for his sister. 

“Yeah I’m fi-Fine.” Twilight managed to muster up, before she felt lightheaded and felt her body drain- before she knew it she laid on the ground unconscious. 

“Twilight?” Shining said, worried. 

“Mom?” Harmonia said, tears brimming her eyes. 

“She must have fainted from the aftershock of what happened.” Starlight said, still examining Twilight’s unconscious state. 

“Well we can’t leave her here. Come on, let's all go home.” Tempest said. 


***


Twilight jerked out of her sleep, beads of sweat poured down her face. She looked around her surroundings as the bright light of Celestia’s sun streamed through her curtains. 

She didn’t recall much of what happened the other night, besides witnessing the fact that Starlight obliterated Sombra before passing out. 

Sombra. 

Wherever he was, she just hoped he wasn’t too badly hurt. 

Wait… why was she even thinking about him? Sombra put her through hell for months! Now that she was saved was she glad to be home? 

“.... what is wrong with me?” Twilight thought. 


***


“Good morning, Twilight!” Starlight said, her tone cheerful. 

“Whoa! Did you get any sleep last night?” Starlight asked, taking in Twilight's ragged appearance. 

“I’m fine, Starlight. It was just a bad dream I had last night. That somehow keeps recurring.” Twilight mutters. 

“Maybe you should see Princess Luna about this. She can help.” Starlight suggested. 

“I said I’m fine.” Twilight said, gritting her teeth. 

For a quick second, Starlight could have sworn she saw something flash in Twilight’s eyes. However, she decided that maybe it was just a trick of the lighting in the room. 

“Okay, no need to get defensive.” Starlight mutters. 

Twilight huffs. “Sorry,” she mutters. “I just didn’t get much sleep once again last night that’s all.” 

Starlight thinks for a moment. “I’m sure Zecora has a sleep remedy to help. Maybe you should go and see her.” She suggested. 

“Maybe you're right, Starlight.” Twilight said. 

“Just looking out for you is all.” Starlight said, her tone chipper. 


***


"Ah! You must be Princess Twilight! What a pleasure to met you!" Zillia said. 

"You must be Zillia, Zecora's daughter." Twilight said, softly smiling at her. 

"Indeed I am! What can I do for you?" She asked. 

"Is your mother around?" Twilight asked, looking inside Zecora's hut. 

"I'm sorry Princess, but you just missed her." Zillia said, looking at Twilight. 

"Shoot..." Twilight mutters. 

"But... may be I can help. What seems to be the problem?" Zillia asked, willing to try her best to help Twilight. 

"I was in need of a remedy," Twilight sighed. "Since my friends have saved me from Sombra.... I've been having these... disturbing nightmares." 

"Oh yes... I've heard about your captivity. I am so sorry that happened to you Princess." Zillia said. 

"It.... It's fine." Twilight mutters. 

Zillia walks over to a tall shelf that holds Zecora's potions. "A sleep remedy that you need, is that so? Let's see... I'm sure my mother has something like that here." Zillia said, turning her attention to the elixirs and remedies that Zecora had whipped up over the years. 

"Here we go Princess!" Zillia said, handing Twilight a midnight blue liquid filled bottle. 

Twilight held the viral in her aura. "Just take one teaspoon and you should rest peacefully tonight." Ziliia explains, softly smiling at her. 

Twilight nods. "Thank you." she said, and made her exit. 


***

 
The air in the Everfree forest felt more dense than usual and oddly foggy. 

A light mist covered the forest ground, but as Twilight was making her way to Zecora’s hut. She couldn’t help but think what her dream could  even mean. 

Five months, five months since she has been saved. Five months since Sombra has been destroyed. 

The atmosphere felt heavy and moist and for some strange reason Twilight felt as if somepony had been watching her. She scanned the environment around her before looking down at the misty ground at her hooves. 

Twilight noticed that her shadow on the forest ground was moveable. 

Moveable? But shadows don’t move on their own. 

A soft, but chilling breeze swept through the air, making the Everfree even creepier than it usually is. 

“Who’s there?” Twilight calls out. 

“Missing somepony already, Dear?” A familiar voice asked. 

That voice. The one that has been torturing her for months on in. 

“Sombra?” Twilight called out. 

Sombra appeared out of her shadow. He looks at her, a sly look on his face. 

“The one and only.” He said, smirking at her. 

“Why are you here?” Twilight asked, her tone icier than she intended to be. 

“Why I came back for you of course.” Sombra said.

“Five months. I thought Starlight destroyed you for five straight months” Twilight said. 

“Like I’d let some wanna be Twilight Sparkle destroy the King of Shadows.” Sombra scoff. 

“Besides I know you still loathe those who wronged you and you want your revenge on them. Do you not?” Sombra asked. 

Twilight said nothing, but stared at him. Her eyes slightly narrowed. 

“You don’t have to say anything. I can see it in your eyes you know. You can tell a lot of how somepony feels from their eyes. Call it a hidden emotion.” Sombra said. 

Twilight rolled her eyes. “I have been trying to accept the terms that Celestia and Discord will forever be together. Nothing will ever change that.” She mutters. 

Her eyes started to tear up at the thought of those tears, She began to softly sniffle a bit. 

“And I have come to terms that you can change that. I have been buying time, waiting for the right moment to strike again and now that you’re alone I- I mean we- can take our revenge on those who have wronged us. I know you want to.” Sombra smirks. 

Twilight backs up, unsure of where this was going. 

“We can do this the easy way or the hard way.” Sombra said.

Twilight furrowed her eyebrows, opening her mouth about to speak. 

“Which if you ask me. You don’t have much of a choice.” Sombra said, giving her a wicked grin. 


***


Harmonia happily made her way down the hallway, everything was perfect and back to normal. Twilight promised her that she will spend the day today practicing magic and her upcoming coordination. 

Harmonia made her way to her mother’s library. 

“Hey mom! Did you forget we have-” Harmonia said, but stopped short when she realized Twilight wasn’t there. 

“Huh?” Harmonia scanned the room. She noticed her aunt was organizing some of Twilight’s books. 

“Hey Aunt Starlight. Have you seen mom?” Harmonia asked. 

“She went to see Zecora. However, that was hours ago. She should have been back by now.” Starlight said. 

“You don’t think that-” Harmonia started. 

“That Sombra is back? Sweetie, I highly doubt that. Besides it’s been five months since your mom has been back.” Starlight said, ruffling her niece’s mane. 


***


Bright light illuminated the grounds where both Sombra and Twilight stood, or well where Twilight was caged and Sombra stood. 

“Where am I?” Twilight asked, fear laced in her voice. 

Then she remembered she was back where she was months ago. Back in her hell hole of a prison. 

“Why? Doesn’t this scene look awfully familiar?” Sombra smirks. 

“Let me go!” Twilight shouts, blasting at the black crystals only for them to retract back at her. 

“Not until I get what I want and what you deserve.” Sombra smirks. 

“Besides my plan was almost completed before that Glim Glam messed everything up and  evaporated me.” Sombra sneared. 

“It’s Starlight Glimmer.” Twilight corrects. 

“Whatever! Now that there are no interruptions I can finally fulfill my desire. What I’ve always wanted you to be: My Queen.” Sombra smirks.

“Please hurry girls.” Twilight thought.


***


The doors to the Castle of Friendship swing open to reveal Spike, a worried expression wore on his face. 

“Starlight! Harmony!” Spike calls throughout the castle. 

Starlight and Harmonia hurries down the hallway to be met by Spike.

“Hey Spike!” Starlight greets. 

“Is everything okay, Uncle Spike?” Harmonia asked, noticing his expression. 

Spike didn’t say anything, but shoved the letter in front of Starlight and Harmonia. 

Starlight grabs the letter from him in her aura and looks over it. Her expression was white as a ghost and her eyes went wide. “But I don’t understand? I vanished him. How is he back?!” Starlight asked, speechless and rather confused. 

“Apparently you didn’t vanish him well enough.” Spike mutters. 

Starlight narrows her eyes at him before focusing her attention back on Harmonia. “Harmonia gather your friends, I’ll get the girls, Spike you send a letter to the Princesses looks like this battle isn’t over yet.” Starlight said, before looking back down at the letter. 


*** 


“What do you mean he’s back?” Ophelia asked. 

“I mean he’s back and he’s captured my mom once again.” Harmonia said. 

“But I thought Starlight evaporated him.” Illusion asked. 

“What does he even want with your mom anyways?” Meadow Bliss asked. 

“Does it look like I know.” Harmonia said, her tone sarcastic. 

“We need to warn the Princesses then.” Prism said.

“Starlight’s taken care of it.” Harmonia said. 

“Can we not have a break from fighting bad guys for one day?” Cotton Berry asked. 

“Apparently not. Guess we might as well be the next saviors of Equestria.” HoneyCrisp stated.

“Guys, we need to go.” Harmonia said, before hurrying off to the castle to meet back with the others. 

“Ugh! Here we go again! Right back to square one!” Confetti Pop groans. 

“I think she’s had enough of fighting villains for a day.” mumbles Cotton Berry. 

“You think?! I mean geez we have to fight him again?? What is this, an audio drama?" Confetti asked, galloping after them. 


***


“What do you mean Twilight is missing again? Glim Glam evaporated that would be king.” Discord said, looking over Celestia’s shoulder at the letter. 

“Well it looks like he’s back and we need to go before he actually masters whatever plan he has this time for Twilight.” Luna said. 
> Chapter 18: Confrontation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Several weeks later…. 

Sombra paces back and forth in the halls, his expression slightly annoyed and his look angry. "What to do when a mare is so hard to convince..." 

He slammed the wall, revealing cracks, his anger almost getting the best of him, he then halts and realizes a plan. "I know, I'll make her my queen, my wife...I will give her everything she wants..." Sombra said, walking down the hall headed for Twilight’s cage with a smug look on his face. "Twilight Sparkle, are you feeling comfortable in there?" Sombra said with his tone in sarcasm.

Twilight looked at him. "Considering that I've been here for several weeks, not really." She mutters, her tone leaking sarcasm.

"Let me fix that for you, I'm planning on settling down with a mare, and your perfect one my eyes laid on." He said, his tone leaking sarcasm, he magically made a black rose appear beside Twilight.

"Consider this as a ticket to your freedom, but the cost is, you're gonna have to marry me, if you don't there will be consequences..." Sombra giggled a little, he looked into Twilight's eyes, giving her a death stare.

"I'm not even in love with you, what makes you think I'm going to marry you?" Twilight spats at the tyrant.

"One more time, you will marry me..." Sombra said getting closer, the rose getting crumpled a little, his aura turning red. "You will take my hoof in marriage, so I can make you happy...unlike that spineless draconequus who left you just for another..." Sombra said, spitting out the words of the past in front of Twilight, he smirked at her. 

"Would you still resist, because resisting is futile Miss Sparkle and I very much kill anyone who resists...but as an exception for you I will give you a choice..." He said smiling at her with a deadly look on his face.

Twilight eyes widen, struck with fear, but her face hardens to not let Sombra notice. "..... No." She said, her voice stern.

"It's your choice..." Sombra said putting the bars down to the cobblestone ground, the rose disappeared, only to be replaced by a scythe, the blade shined within the dimly lit lights.

"I'm gonna have to force you to marry me won't I?" He slammed the blade to ground as it dug in deep, he moved closer to Twilight, the blade making loud scratching noises. "Don’t worry, I am not gonna kill you dear I'm just here, lighten things up..." He sliced the chains that were on Twilight's legs. "Free as a horse..." He chuckled to himself. "Like I said, I simply want to lighten things up a bit..." His tone is nonchalant and blunt.

Twilight looks at him, surprise. "W-what?" She asked, slightly baffled by his actions.

He smiled at Twilight, until he brought up the blade to her neck slowly, his smile turned into nothing but disappointed look. "I simply told you, you have choices, it's either you face the consequences or you marry, yet you took the easy way out..." 

He made a pillar of crystal rise up behind her, and he pushed her to it, pinning her down a little. "You had two choices, and I'm gonna ask you again...will you marry me..." 

He looked into Twilight's eyes, feeling a little guilty yet anger filled in him.

Twilight eyes widen at the blade beside Sombra. "Y-you can't force me to marry you when I don't even have feelings for you in return." Twilight said, her gaze hardening.

Sombra gritted his teeth and he yelled, he slammed the blade beside Twilight's ear, not hitting it, instead he hit the crystal. "You, you of all mares are hard to convince!" 

He cast a magic of levitation on Twilight, and threw her in the middle of the cage, the cage suddenly rose up and trapped her once more. 

"Do you even want to see your daughter again?" He slammed the blade on the Cage's bars, making a spark.

Twilight ran to the edge of the cage. "I-I do, but-" she tried to explain, but Sombra cut her off.

He looked into Twilight's eyes, Sombra felt something he never felt before, little hints of guilt hits him a little, Sombra moved the blade out slowly, and he made the scythe disappear.

"In due time Twilight, in due time." He looked at Twilight, a slightly annoyed look on his face emerged.

"Get some rest, you'll need for your life to bloom..." He looked at Twilight, a smile carving up on his face. He left the chamber, leaving Twilight to herself.


***



15 hours later… 


Twilight remains silent. 

Sombra sighs gently knocking on the door. “Come on, Twilight. I didn’t mean to yell at you earlier. Come on, honey.” Sombra said, pleading. 

Twilight opened her eyes, giving the crystal maid a smirk and a wink. “Shh…” she whispers.

The Crystal maid looks at Twilight with a shocking expression on her face. No words would come out of her mouth, for she was speechless. 

“Please don’t tell Sombra!” Twilight begs.

“I- If you were any type of friend or know something about friendship then please…” Twilight begs with tears in her eyes, her voice cracking. 

The Crystal maid- who still had a stunned look displayed on her face- slowly nodded. She turns to leave to give the “saddened” news to the King. 

Twilight breathes a sigh of relief. “Okay… okay,” she breaths. “If I’m going to escape this place I need a plan.” She mutters. 

Twilight thought for a moment, looking around the room she was kept in. “Okay! I got it, but I’m going to have to wait till tonight for it to work.” 


***


“I am so sorry my King, but the future Queen is-“ The Crystal maid, stated. 

“Dead? Yes I know.” Sombra said, gazing out his window. 

“I am terribly sorry.” The Crystal maid said, bowing her head. 

Sombra pauses for a moment, unable to know what to say. “.... Just leave now.” Sombra said, his voice hardened. 


*** 

Twilight looks at the clock. It was 10:30 p.m. at this hour she was sure Sombra would be in his royal bedchamber asleep at this hour. Luckily she was free to use her magic and her horn wasn’t nullified with dark crystals, but the room she was in did penetrate her from doing anything drastic, mostly widely known spells that she knew Sombra knew she could have used to attack him with. 

So she had to rely on her brain more than her magic at the bare minimum moment. Twilight scans the room looking for a possible bare route to escape. She knew she couldn’t go out the front door, the guards were standing there, however if she was “dead” wouldn’t they have left their posts by now? 

Twilight crept towards her door, peering over to realize that the guards were not at their posts, assuming that she was indeed dead. 

She uses a tad bit of her magic to open the door, but it wouldn’t let her open it. Twilight assumed Sombra casted it using dark magic. 

As much as it made her head hurt and extremely dizzy, she had to get out of there! Twilight ignites her magic, her calming magenta magic transformed into black magic, her horn glistening with an aura of green and black magic. 

She cast her spell that Sombra used to put on the door, after five minutes she heard a click. 

Twilight shook the grogginess feeling from her, and went back to focusing on her escape plan.

From the outside of Twilight’s room, the hallway was eerily quiet too quiet. She began walking down the damping hallway, its atmosphere strongly felt like a mix of her anxiety going up and that something bad was going to happen. 

Twilight heard voices coming from the west side of the hallway.

Sombra’s guards. 

Twilight took it as her chance to hide, as she quickly slips into the darkest hallway in the castle, hoping that she will blend into the dark. 

She listened while the guards were by passing her. 

“I can’t believe the queen is dead.” One of the guards said. 

“You and me, both bud. Besides, what would her family think? Heartbroken I assume?” The other one said. 

“Well duh? Who’s family wouldn’t be heartbroken about the news that one of their most beloved members of their family is dead. Besides the Queen- er well Princess of Friendship- was beloved by many.” The first guard said. 

“Such a sad day for Equestria’s history.” Mumbles the second guard. 

Twilight waits until they pass to get a move on, once their hoofsteps fade, she removes herself from the shadows, and quickly makes her way out of the castle. 

From the outside of the castle she knew she was miles away from home. She didn’t even know here even was! 

“Okay, the train station closes at 11:59 pm. I think I can make it there if I teleport there.” Twilight mutters to herself, she scans her surroundings. 

Thick lushes, but somewhat dead trees surrounded her captives hideout, but before this it was crystal clear forest trees like the ones she saw outside of the Crystal Empire. Was what she saw at the Empire an illusion of some sorts? 

Twilight didn’t have time to dwell on that question she had to get out of here now!

Igniting her horn, she teleported away. 


***

Sombra’s bedroom chamber door opened with a loud slam, rattling the windows. 

“What the? What is the meaning of all of this?” Sombra asked, half pissed and half awake. 

“My king! The princess has escaped!” Said one of the guards. 

“What?! But how! I thought she was dead!” Sombra asked, his tone was filled with disbelief and anger. 

“After everything I’ve given her this is how she repays me!” He growls. 

“Do you need us to find her?” Asked one of the guards. 

“No need to! I’ll handle it myself.” He sneers. 


*** 


Twilight pulls out her pocket watch- 11:50 pm. She made it just in time! She gallops to the Crystal Empire’s train station. 

“One ticket to Ponyville!” She said, her tone slightly urgent. 

“That will be twenty bits.” Said the ticket pony. 

Twilight quickly gave the mare twenty bits, waiting for the train to arrive. The train pulls into the station, as Twilight boards it she gives the conductor the exact location she needed to be at. 

“To Ponyville please.” She said, before taking her seat. 

At this hour, of course she would be the only one on the train station. It was pretty late after all, but she knew she had to get the hell away from him. 

Twilight watches as the small crystal townhouses that made up half of the Crystal Empire bypassed from view. She relaxed as she set her scrambled mind at ease. 

“Finally! I can’t wait to see Harmonia. I know she must be worried sick.” She thought, watching as the train was now entering the Frozen North- or the Ethers- as Rarity once called them. 

Snow gently blanketed the ground, but made the train and tracks easier to get through. However, the train came to a screeching halt. 

“What?” Twilight asked, utterly confused by why the train stopped in the middle of a blizzard like a deadly snow storm. 

Maybe there was a ton of snow on the tracks? Or maybe an animal was blocking the path, however no animal would probably dare be out in this mess of a season. 

Twilight looks out the window, and notices that nothing was in their path. She gets up from her seat, and walks up to the conductor. 

“Excuse me? Why did we stop?” Twilight asked. 

The conductor turns around, but instead of being met with friendly crystallized eyes that would give her an answer. She was met with sickly lime green ones that look like he was in a trans. 

Twilight gasped. “We are sorry that you are experiencing technical difficulties- please stand by.” The conductor said, his voice was also laced with creepy and eeriness that Twilight did not enjoy. 

Twilight could hear slow claps from behind her, which startled her to the core. “Did you really believe you could escape me?” Said the voice. 

Twilight turned around and gasped. 

Sombra. 

“However, I must give credit where credit is due your escape plan was very… admirable.” He said, sneering. 

Twilight swallowed a lump that she has been holding in her throat. “How did you find me?” Twilight croaks. 

“My dear, I always have somepony watching over you to make sure you don’t do anything foolish. Faking your own death however, I’ll admit that surprised me.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant. 

He chuckles, his tone dark. “..... however, that horn of yours I should have nullified sooner.” Sombra said, with that he fires a blast at her. 

Twilight dodges it. “.... so you brainwashed the conductor and the ticket master because you knew what I was planning?!” Twilight yells, firing a blast at Sombra. 

“You should know by now I will always be one step ahead of you Twilight! Besides your not the only one to always have an upper hoof in plans you know.” He said, his teeth bared. 

“As for the conductor, yes, the ticket master was just a small bonus.” He sneers.

Sombra stalks towards her, his blood red crimson horn aglow. Twilight looks above her, noticing spare luggage cases. 

Twilight smirks. “Well since you seem to always know what my next move is and always seem to be two hoovesteps ahead of me then I guess you also expected this!” 

Without warning, Twilight unlatched all of the cargo of luggage and watches as they toppled on top of Sombra. 

Twilight then took it as her cue to leave. She raced through the empty train carts as the windows were too small for her to squeeze through unlike the train back in Ponyville. 

Sombra chases after Twilight- unaware of the attire he had on. 

Twilight looks for a way off the train, which if they were three carts down they would already be outside of the train and into the snow-covered banks of the Frozen North. 

“This is the end of the line for you Princess!” He sneers, his horn ignited. 

 “You know that dress is beautiful on you! I believe Rarity would even approve! Black really is your color!” Twilight lightly giggles, her tone leaking fake happiness, sass and sarcasm into one. 

“Enough games!” He growls, firing a beam at her. 

But Twilight throws a protection spell around her. 

“You think that measly spell will protect you? Don’t you remember the contract you signed?” Sombra asked. 

“You know… I might be able to take you more seriously if you didn’t wear that dress.” Twilight said, her tone nonchalant. 

“.... like seriously the dress is really distracting me from trying to focus on what you're saying.” Twilight said, lightly giggling. 

Sombra growls. “So you would also find it rather funny that we both broke the end of our deal and I can just mess with your daughter as I please…. What was her name again? Harmonia right?” Sombra asked. 

Twilight growls. “Lay a hoof on my daughter and you're dead mar- I mean stallion!” Twilight sneers. 

She fires a beam at Sombra, knocking him to the ground. “I must admit you are a lot stronger than we last encountered.” He admits. 

“Hard work pays off. At least I didn’t kill and enslave ponies to get my crown!” Twilight sneers. 

Sombra shoots a beam at Twilight, knocking her backwards he then lunges after her, but she quickly rolls over to the side. 

He looks up at her. “I will never be yours Sombra.” She sneers. 

“You sure about that Princess?” He asked, his eyes glowing. 

He then grabs Harmonia. “You wouldn’t do it for your own daughter?” He asks. 

“Mommy please don’t do this.” Harmonia wimpiers. 

“Harmonia? But how did you?” Twilight asked.

“Bye mommy.” Harmonia said, her tone creepily child-like. 

 Without warning Sombra created the biggest blast he could muster, sending Twilight flying three doors down the train station- all the way to the end of the line. 

The bitter cold, nips at her fur and wings. Her teeth chattering from the cold. “Seems like the love and bond you have with your daughter is your biggest weakness!” Sombra growls, a satisfying grin displayed showing his sharp fangs. 

His horn glowed once more. “Now about that horn of yours.” He soothes, but before he could cast the spell, Twilight used her hind legs to buck Sombra off of her. 

“Why you little-” He lunged after Twilight once more flipping them both over the railing and into the snowy banks of the Frozen North. 

The wind whilst and makes both of their manes and tails flow through the nippy, cold breeze. 

Twilight was especially cold, considering that she didn’t have any type of clothing to cover her. 

“I hope you know that your wings will freeze over in a matter of seconds considering that this is the Frozen North.” Sombra said. 

“I’m well aware.” Twilight bit back. She shivers from the cold, trying to concentrate on the all out war between the two. 

The two began to fire back and forth, firing back at one another. 

“I must admit I haven’t had a worthy opponent like you in years, however  I am also well aware that any tricks you pull, I know better!” Sombra said. 

“Brag worthy much?” Twilight asked, her tone annoyed. 

Sombra smirks, firing a blast at Twilight. Twilight flew upwards, dogging his spell. She then lowers her horn, firing a blast at Sombra, which sent him under a mountain pile of snow- enough snow to make a pony freeze to death. 

And like Sombra said- Twilight wings did freeze from the bitter cold. 

“M- my wings!” Twilight wails, the snow frostbit her wings, causing her to spiral downward, but she still had her magic to rely on. She grabs ahold of herself, before hitting the snow covered ground. 

She places herself upright, staring at the snow covered bank Sombra was held under.  The snow started to glow crimson red, Twilight held up her shield ready before the impact from the blast of snow was on her. 

Sombra- who somehow managed to stay alive in that mess- blasts the snow away, causing it to blow towards Twilight. The high winds from his clearing of snow are extremely unbearable. 

Sombra looks at Twilight. “Didn’t I tell you Princess? You can’t get rid of me that easily.” He snears. 

He took into notice that Twilight’s wings were indeed- just how he predicted- frozen stiff. “Now this just got a lot more even.” He sneers. 

“Unicorn against Unicorn.” He said. 

“I’m still an alicorn! Just because my wings are frozen doesn’t mean I can still kick your flank.” Twilight said, her teeth bared. 
 
“Admirable fighter.” He muses.

“Let’s see if you can handle this!” Sombra fires a blast at her. 

Twilight closed her eyes, but then opened them. 

At first she didn’t think nothing happened- but she heard the sound of soft snow being crunched underneath by the sound of hoof steps. 

She turned around, Celestia. 

“Oh Twilight, did you really think Discord was ever really in love with you? He just used you! Having a child with him was just a bonus.” Celestia said. 

“W… What? No! You’re lying!” Twilight shouts, tears welled in her eyes. 

“Am I really? Everything else that’s happened so far seems to be true. So why should this be any different? You know Harmonia should just start calling me mother instead of you.” Celestia smirks at her. 

Twilight eyes begin to turn the exact shade of Sombra. Watching as her nightmare unfolded before her. 

Harmonia then looks at Celestia with a tiny grin on her face. “Mommy!” Harmonia said, as she hugs Celestia hoof. Harmonia gave a smile at Celestia and then at Twilight. 

“That is not your mother Harmonia! I am.” Twilight said her voice stern. 

“Why can’t she be my mother Twilight? She is half the mother you will ever be.” Harmonia sneers. 

Twilight’s eyes widen in rage. Blurred by tears and fueled by anger, she ignites her horn. “You two are not real!” She bares her teeth, ready to release her spell. 

“Are we though?” Taunts Harmonia. 

“Gahhh!” Twilight then released her spell causing the illusions of Sombra spell to vanish. 

Twilight breathing went ragged, as she eyes Sombra. “I can sense so much hate in you Twilight.” He said. 

Twilight said nothing, she looked at the King in disgust. “.... yeah towards you.” She said, her voice stern. 

“Are you sure about that?” Sombra smirks, showing his fangs. 

Twilight was beginning to feel hot, even though here in the Frozen North it was at least  -5 degrees out. She was beginning to feel funny, really funny. Her vision started to blur before her and her head started to swim. That spell must have taken a lot out of her than she intentionally thought. Her knees felt weak as they buckled out from under her. 

Sombra smirks at Twilight who was at her weakest state. He stands over her, giving a triumphant smirk. “Is my Queen not feeling too well?” He soothes. 

Twilight gives him one final glare, as her vision of him blurs before her. She tried the strength to wake up, but her body said otherwise before passing out. 

Sombra towers over her body, as the cold nips at her fur. He lifts her chin up with his hoof. Twilight remained unconscious. 

“Well I can’t just leave her out here to die. She is my future Queen after all.” Sombra mutters to himself, gazing at her appearance. 

“But first…” Sombra thought he noticed her horn had yet to be nullified. Now would be as good as ever to cast that spell onto her horn. And he did, as he watched tiny crystals form on her horn. He then lifts her up with his magic onto his back. 

He looks onward out into the blizzard they were far beyond the train. And the train was too far for him to try to teleport both of them considering that he had one passed out on his back. “Looks like we are going back to the train by hoof.” He mutters to himself. 

Sombra begins galloping through the blizzard, the cold hardly bothering him. “Why did we have to fight this far out?” He wonders.

He sighs as he continues onward, he comes across fallen snow covered branches and logs. “There has to be an easier way back to the station.” He thought, he scans his surroundings. 

He noticed that there was a snow covered hill within reach and just below it he hoped was the train station. 

He begins to gallop towards that with Twilight in tow. 

“Just a little more.” Sombra thought, once he reached the top, his hoof slips and both go tumbling down the snow-covered slope, connecting into the icy water. 

Both of their bodies go under, but as Sombra resurfaced- Twilight did not. Sombra then quickly dove back under, using his magic to pull Twilight along. 

Once the two reached the surface, he let go of Twilight in his magic. 

She was still unconscious. After painting and catching his breath he lifts her up once more this time the station and the train were in reach. He used what little magic he had and teleported the two inside.


***


The conductor was still in Sombra’s trans from early, so the conductor was still under his command. 

“Take us back to the Crystal Mountains.” Sombra orders. 

“Of course my king.” The conductor said, starting the train to their destination. 


***


Twilight woke up, her mind still hazy. “....... where am I?” She asked. 

“My Queen, you’re safe here in the Crystal Mountains.” King Sombra said, smirking at her. 

“The… The Crystal Mountains? No! Why did you bring me back here?!”  Twilight said, glaring at him. 

She tried to fire her magic at him, but he only smirked at her. “What did you do to my horn?!” She asked, realizing that it hurt to try to strain her magic at him. 

“Uh… I think I just saved your life! And that I brought you back here because I wanted you alive? You see my Queen you can never escape from me.” He growls. 

Twilight scoffed. “Of course you did, by trying to kill me mere seconds ago?!” 

Sombra rolled his eyes. “As for your horn I nullified it. I honestly should have done that much sooner.” He said, glaring at her. 

Twilight rises her hoof, before striking. She then looks at the King in disgust. “I don’t even know you!” Twilight said, her tone broken and bitter, before leaving the room. 

Sombra held a bewildering look, his anger rising. He chases after Twilight before grabbing her with his magic and slamming her into the cobblestone wall. Twilight could have sworn she felt whiplashed. Sombra looks at her, a look of anguish and pissed displayed on his features, as he watched his future queen gasp for air. 

“Don’t you ever disobey your King again!” Sombra hissed, his tone low and threatening. 

“Do you hear me?!” He belows at her. 

Tears gathered in Twilight’s eyes, as she silently shakes her head. Sombra in return gives her a smug smile, before slamming her to the ground. He looked at her, his facial expressions were cold. “I still had your room aside for you, but since you want to be a royal brat! I guess another night in the stone cold cage should teach you a lesson before disobeying me. What do you think?” He asked. 

“Y-yes my king.” Twilight mutters, tears aligned in her eyes. 

“Awe my dear, don’t cry. Everything will be alright. You’ll see soon enough.” Sombra smirks. 

“I will never be yours.” Twilight said, her teeth bared. 

“In due time. Now come back to the cage you go.” Sombra said, luring her to the cage.


***

“If I’m your “Queen” then this is a pretty pathetic way of treating royalty.” Twilight said, her eyes narrowed at Sombra. 

“Maybe start showing some respect then you’ll earn your place in this castle! Until then you’ll stay here!” Sombra snaps. 

“Go to Hell!” Twilight yells. 

“Oh my dear! You're already here! And you’re dancing with the Devil.” He said, winking at her before heading off to his chambers. 


***

Meanwhile...

The mid-morning dawn slowly breaks through. Tiberius sat quietly in the courtyard listening to the birds chirping and watched as the sun was rising over the Canterlot castle. 

He breathed in and out, slow and steady as he was in deep thought. “You mean there are more draconequus like me and dad? I thought we were the only ones, but obviously not. Whoever this Harmonia is that Aunt Luna was telling me about, she is one to. Maybe mother knows something about her.” Tiberius silently thought to himself. 

Celestia, calmly walked out into the Canterlot garden, taking in the calming light breeze of the morning dew, however, she didn’t notice that her son was sitting on the bench a few inches away. “Mother?” Tiberius asks, cautiously approaching his mother. 

Celestia jumped, slightly startled by her son, she turned to face him. “Oh! It’s only you. What are you doing up this early and out here by yourself?” She asks the young draconequus.  

“I couldn’t sleep.” Tiberius mutters. 

“If you were having a nightmare then you could have talked to your Aunt Luna about it.” Celestia explains, her tone calming. 

“It’s nothing like that mother... “ Tiberius sighs. “I just have had a lot on my mind since last night and need to come out here and do some thinking.” He said.

Celestia walks over to her son, wrapping her snow white wing around her son. “Well, I’m here now. You know you can talk to me about anything, just know that I am always here to listen to you.” Celestia said, her tone remained soft and motherly. 

Tiberius held in a deep breath of air before releasing it. “Here goes nothing.” He thought to himself. 

He looked up at Celestia, who remained with a warm and gentle smile on her face. “Mother, who is Harmonia?” 

Celestia's eyes widened and her body went tense, Tiberius did not notice his mother’s expression and continued. “Aunt Luna was saying that there is another draconequus like dad and me, but that’s all she said. I was hoping if you knew more about her or have heard of her anyways.” Tiberius looks at his mother, now noticing her expression. 

“Mother, are you okay? You're doing sorta of the same expression that Aunt Luna gave me last night. But do you know anything about her? Who Harmonia is?” Tiberius asks, once again. 

This left Celestia’s mouth feeling like pennies, leaving her speechless. Tiberius asks again, this being his last attempt to get any known information about this unknown draconequus out of her. 

“Mother,” this time he asks carefully, his tone remaining serious. “Who is Harmonia?” 


***

Luna walks outside followed by her daughter Amaris, enjoying the breeze of the cool morning air. Tiberius walks over to his Aunt Luna, who smiles at her nephew. “Ah, good morning Tib-” Luna said, but Celestia cuts her off. 

“You told him about her?” Celestia questions, her tone slightly strict. Luna’s eyes and expression went from calm to slightly worried. “I knew Tia was going to kill me.” She thought to herself. 

“Well he was bound to find out one way or another.” Luna shot back, her tone defensive. 

Tension can be sensed between the two. “All I want is a straight answer.” Said Tiberius, his tone blunt.

Luna and Celestia finally broke their eye contact from each other to turn their attention to the draconequus. “So youre saying that this Harmonia character is another draconequus, like me?” Tiberius said, slowly coming to a conclusion. 

Celestia and Luna, both looked at each other with worrisome expressions. Celestia was the first to sigh. “Yes, but-” 

Celestia got cut by Tiberius's laughter as if somepony was pulling a prank. “You must be joking.” Tiberius said, still continuing to laugh. 

Amaris and Luna looked at each other, before looking at Tiberius. “You have to be pulling my hoof.” Tiberius said, still laughing, but stopped short when he realized that nopony was laughing. 

“Nopony is joking, Tibby.” Amaris said, giving Tiberius his old nickname that she used when she was only three. 

Tiberius shook his head, trying his best to not believe anything that they were saying. “You’ve got to be lying.” He scoffs. 

“If anypony was lying, don’t you think all of us would be laughing.” Amaris said, her tone serious. 

Tiberius looked between the three, his expression soured slightly. “I think I have to go.” Tiberius said, his tone icy. 

They watched as Tiberius ran off. “Tiberius, wait!” Celestia calls out. Luna turned to her daughter. “Go after him, make sure he doesn’t do anything chaotic.” Luna said, giving her daughter orders. 

Amaris nods, and follows after him. 


*** 

Waves crash against the rocks of the tide of Mt. Aries. 

Tiberius watches as the waves carefully rolled in and out, making the atmosphere peaceful, or well as peaceful as it could be. A few hippogriffs were gathered in the distance. 

Tiberius softly smiled at them, before turning his attention back to the tide or so he thought. “Tibby?” Amiris said, carefully approaching her hot-headed cousin. 

Tiberius' ears pricked up at the sound of his cousin. “What is it Amiris?” He asked, his tone remaining calm for some odd reason. 

“I just wanted to come and check on you.” Amiris explained, her tone remaining soft.

“So in other words spy on me.” Tiberius said, giving his cousin a playful smile. 

“It's not like that at all!” Amiris said, her tone defensive. 

“Well it sure seems like it.” He said, his tone bitter. 

Amaris said nothing. Tiberius sighed. “It’s just it seems like everypony in this family is hiding a secret and I am left in the dark just about everything.” Tiberius said, his tone melcoly. 

Amiris ears downfolded, her expression softened. “Not everything in life is meant to be understood,” Amiris said, wrapping a hoof around Tibarus. 

Tiberius sighed. “You know even if you are only half changeling, you are wise for your age.” he said, giving his cousin a small smile. 

Amiris gave her cousin a smug look. “Well if you ask me I took being wise after my mother.” she said, being proud of where she came from, family heritage wise. 

Tiberius gave a small chuckle, before enveloping his cousin in the hug. “I mean, what other things could our family be hiding from us?” Tiberius asks. 


***


 Harmonia blinks and looks around her surroundings, waves crash and descend along the titles shoreline, she looks out into the open air breathing in slowly taking in the sights and sounds of Mt. Aris had to offer. “Wrong location once again…” Harmonia mumbled to herself, her face quickly went from annoyance to one of excitement. 

Amaris- the young draconequus could hear a faint voice call from the distance as the creature ran up to hug her. “Hey! Harmonia it’s so good to see you!”  Amaris beams.

Tiberius- who was left behind, looked from afar in the direction Amaris went and why the young changeling got excited for.  

Her! Or so he thinks it’s her.


***


“So how have you been? It feels like moons since we last hung out together!” Amaris said, her tone clearly excited about seeing her old friend. 

“I’ve been alright.” Harmonia mutters. 

Tiberius carefully approaches the girls. “Uh? Amaris? How do you know her?” Tiberius asked, letting him curiously get to him. 

“Oh! We met awhile back when we were foals in The Everfree Forest! Let’s just say we liked to have died together! This is Harmonia.” Amaris said, introducing the draconequus to her cousin. 

Tiberius' eyes shrunk to the size of dimes, before going back to his normal size. “So you’re Harmonia.” Tiberius said, his voice laced with caution and suspicion. 

“Uh… yeah- Wait! How do you know my name? And why do you look exactly like me?” Harmonia asks, baffled by the young draconequus appearance. 

“Well this just got awkward…” Amaris thought to herself. 

Tiberius and Harmonia stared at each other, taking in their appearances. Harmonia quickly grabbed her stance without second thought, an orb of raspberry pink magic already in her paw. “What are you doing here changeling?” Harmonia sneers, she held a wild look in her eyes.

Tiberius looked at Harmonia with confusion before looking at Amaris, clearly confused at Harmonia’s actions. Amaris cleared her throat. “Uh, Harmony? The changelings are reformed now.” Amaris mutters. 

 Tiberius lets out a haughty laugh. “Ha yeah! Besides I could have easily distinguished your magic like that.” Tiberius said, snapping his claws. 

Harmonia looked bewildered at the moment. “O-okay, but if you’re not a changeling disguised as one of my species then who in the wide world of Equestria are you?” Harmonia questions. 

“I could ask you the same thing.” Tiberius cocks back. 

“Well this is awkward times two…” Amaris thought.

The changeling sighs aloud, clearly regretting what was about to come out of her mouth. “Harmonia. Tiberius. You two are brother and sister.” Amaris mutters the last part, but the two still caught on. 

“What?!”  They said in unison. 


*** 


“But how is that even possible? We look nothing alike.” Tiberius said. 

“You two may not fully look alike, but you are still siblings.” Amaris explains. 

“Half. Half-siblings.” Tiberius said, his eyes narrowed at Harmonia. 

“Wait- how comes mom has never told me about having a brother?” Harmonia mutters to herself, but Amaris still overheard. 

“You actually was born way before him, love.” Amaris said. 

Tiberius scoffs. “This is ridiculous.” he mutters to himself.

“You two are more similar than you think, Tibby. Sisi ni Sawa!” Amaris coos, as she smirks at the two.

“Uh, Amaris, can you speak English I have no idea what that even means.” Tiberius said, slightly frustrated by his cousin’s weird mato. 

“She’s saying we’re the same.” Harmonia spoke up. 

Tiberius scoffs. “Uh no. I don’t think so.” 


***


Four months later….

"I can't believe it has been months, and still she resists and coils upon my request… Yet that was pretty clever what that brat tried to pull over on me." He slammed his hooves on the ground, revealing cracks on the walls and ground. 

He looked at the grey casing with the indentions of an ancient word, he smiled at it. "Now there is an idea..." He looked at the grey casing and he turned around to the chamber. 

He walked towards the cage where Twilight was held, he threw the grey casing, mostly looking like a box where a wedding ring would be kept.

"My queen, would you care to open the box..."  He said, sarcasm in his tone as he smiled at her.

Twilight was skeptical at first, hesitant, but without question she opened the box displayed before her. "What is this?" She asked.

"A wedding ring, just for you." He neared Twilight, no hostility in mind, he gazed upon Twilight's reaction. 

"It's for my future Queen, who would rule beside me..." He looked at Twilight with his eyes staring into hers.

"I..." Twilight was speechless, as she gazed upon the ring. 

Sombra, smirks at her awaiting her answer. 

"I'm sorry, but I can't." Twilight said, her ears flattened, she pushed the ring box out of the cage. 

Sombra gritted his teeth a little, but his tolerance got the best of him, he levitated the ring to her and the box to him. "Let's think about it for a second here dear, you'll be much happier with me, I'm giving you what you wanted." Sombra said going nearer, he placed the box beside the cage, red smoke coming out a little, going towards Twilight.

Twilight inhales the smoke, she coughs violently, Sombra looking at her with a disappointed gaze, Twilight looks at him seeing another pony beside him, but it looks like her.

"What did you do to me!?" She asks, crying a little, tears forming in Twilight's eyes.

"I simply did what I had to do to force you to marry me, I had to take "precautions" and clearly you made your choice, so I made mine..." Sombra said, his tone was filled with hate and disappointment.

The mare beside Sombra looked at her wickedly. "So we finally met." She sneers at Twilight. 

"W-who are you?" Twilight asks, slightly scared. 

The mare smirked. "It's it obvious? I'm everything you desire to be." She said, looking at Twilight said. 

"T-that's impossible! I'm nothing like you." Twilight said, her teeth bared at the young mare.

"Oh how touching, looking I'll leave everything up to you, take control of her little by little for me would you dear?" He looks at Twilight, a grin etched on Sombra's face.

"Would most certainly''dear ``... The mare sneered at Sombra, Sombra gave out a small chuckle.

"Watch your mouth, or I'll put you down..." Sombra smirked at the mare, she smirked back.

"Put her to sleep for me, and do what you want with her." He looks at Twilight, a giggle came out from Sombra.
 
"Looks like it's just you and me." Taunts the mare. 

Twilight looks at her, a look of disgust etched on her face. 

"We both know what you really want and that's power.... You want to hurt the ones who have wronged you, just like that piece of trash you call a "mentor" Celestia." She spats at Twilight. 

"I don't want to hurt anypony." Mutters Twilight. 

"I know deep down that you loathe the ponies who have wronged you like that pitiful excuse of an ex-husband of yours Discord." She sneers. 

"Would you quit throwing the past in my face?!" Sneers Twilight. 

"Oh but it's fun." Fawns the mare, giggling.

"Leave me alone!" She backed up to the back of the cage, tears forming in her eyes slowly, Twilight rubbed her eyes, thinking that this is an illusion.

"Do you really think that everything your seeing is a dream?" The mare snears at her, her face unidentified from the brightness of the chamber.

"Oh "Me" you entertain me, let me awaken you from your world of friendship and Cliche..." The mare stood out of the light, revealing Twilight Sparkle in a different form.

Twilight gasped, taking in the mare's young appearance. "Y-your..." Twilight said, baffled by the mare's appearance.

The mare giggled. “Yes, I'm you- well the better, powerful and prettier version of you." She snarled at her, her teeth sharp and her mane and coat different from Twilight's original coat and mane, her mane jet black with dark pinkish red streaks and her coat dark purple.

"And I'll take matters into my own hooves..." She said as she shot a beam of magic into Twilight's horn, slowly fading into Twilight's head.

Twilight laid there dazed and confused. 

Her eyes glazed.


***

                      
"Where am I?" Twilight said, her voice echoed in the void. 

"Why in your subconscious of course." Giggles the mare.

"And you're just in time for your daily dose of pain and suffering, "Miss Sparkle", you  think you're almighty and powerful you can't even beat me or him!" The dark Twilight snarled at her, she was right beside her, her eyes just like Sombra's.

"Do you even think that he'll let you live to see the light of day? No, no, no that's too quick! You'll be the perfect mare for him, you'll see..." She said laughing at Twilight, multiple Twilight's appeared laughing at her.

Twilight put her hooves over her ears, trying to block out the noise. "Enough!" She shouts.

All of the Twilight's went near her, laughing while multiplying around her, everyone surrounded her including her friends, looking at Twilight with distaste.

 "Everyone here loves to see the real you Twily...don't make it hard for us..." She fawns, she appeared in front of Twilight, pulling her hooves away from her ears slowly. "You can't resist what I'm giving you...I know you'll love it!" She said, giving a deadly look at Twilight.

Twilight blasts her horn at the multiplying of herself.

The blast went through them, their eyes turning red from anger and disappointment. "So this is what Sombra is dealing with, a stubborn little mare, a stubborn little mare who doesn't know how to learn!" 

The evil Twilight kicks Twilight down to the dark ground, the tentacles wrapping around Twilight’s torso and legs.

"You make it so hard for us do you Twily, I am very disappointed, in due time you'll break and I'll be in control of everything!" She spat out, walking towards Twilight with anger. 

"Do you really want this to end badly?" She questions the mare, her gaze disappointed and her tone annoyed.

"No! But I won't listen to you!" Twilight snaps. 

"Oh, but you know that this is the right thing to do, you know. My point is I know what's best for you, Twily. I always have. I know it and deep down you know it too.” She snears.
 
Twilight didn't listen, but tears were forming in her eyes, as her counterpart smirks at her. 


***


Sombra awaits in his room, deep in thought. He didn't bother looking behind him because he knew who was behind him. 

"So how did it go?" He asks, his tone calm. 

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Ugh! That mare that you captured is impossible to corrupt!" She snapped. 

Sombra turned to look at her. "That mare will be at her downfall sooner than you think." He hissed at her. 

"Yeah right, she's so.... Stubborn!" Twilight said, her tone leaking boredom and sarcasm. 

Sombra gave her a low laugh. "My dear, never doubt the King of Shadows he always gets what he wants." He snears.

"News flash, I'm starting to doubt you, "My king"..." The evil Twilight spat out, she looked at Sombra, with the most annoyed look on her face.

"Well, I guess failing is part of this process now that you think about it..." The evil Twilight muttered to herself quietly.

"What was that?" Sombra snaps at her. 

"I'm just saying, it takes a few failed attempts before anypony-even you- can truly achieve your success." Twilight explains. 

Sombra thought for a moment, even if this was just a manifestation. It did have a point- even if she was sassy and full of sarcasm.

"Correct, but soon you'll take place in her mind, making her even better than before, as I said, never doubt the king of shadows, I always get what I want!" He turned back, looking at the windows, seeing storm clouds heading in.

"And what about miss Goody two hooves right there?" The Evil Twilight questions the King of Shadows, her tone calm and sarcastic.

"She'll break in due time. We just have to give her a little push in the wrong direction." He smirks at her.

She grunts with an annoyed tone, she then turns her look at the doorway, but she spoke up before leaving.

"Take care of this problem for me, I'm craving to get inside that big brain of hers..." she said, walking out the door.

Sombra rolled his eyes. "She is so full of sarcasm and sass." He mutters to himself.

Sombra took his time to think on how to approach Twilight, he turned back at the door leading to the chamber, he saw Twilight sobbing a little.

He looked back to what he was looking at, and thought to himself. "What if I warm up to her, be more of a "gentlecolt"...maybe she gets the Colt she deserves..." Sombra mutters to himself, thinking of a plan on how to approach Twilight.

"What if I give her a little bit of freedom..." He said looking back at the doorway leading to her chamber.

"Ah yes, it's the perfect time to be, as they say...a "Gentlecolt"..." He said as he levitated another black rose.

Twilight heard hooves make a connection with the cold cobblestone ground. She slowly raised her head up looking at Sombra with watery eyes. "Just leave me alone." She mutters, her tone full of hurt.

Sombra lowered the bars carefully, not wanting to startle the Alicorn in pain, he looked at her with no smug look, but a bit of a concerning expression.

"I know what you think, I might hurt you again, fear not." He said, putting a rose in front of her, this time a red rose that has it's petals shining a little.

"Despise me if you want, I know what you feel." He said looking at Twilight with a calm expression.

"Despite everything, you're a tough mare to crack, which is a good thing because...y-you keep your head high." He tries to make conversation with the Alicorn.

Twilight looks at the stallion, with a skeptical look, she holds the rose he gave her in her aura. She looks at it for a moment before looking back up at Sombra. "...... Okay what's the catch." She asks.

"No catch, just something I wanted to give you." He looks down at the ground, shuffling his hooves a little.

"I just simply wanted to give you something beautiful since it matches you." Sombra said, smiling a little.

He moves back a little, prepared for the possible sneering of foul words.

"I know what you think of me, a monster, a tyrant, I'm all those things but you of all ponies should know, monsters have hearts." He gives Twilight a smirk.

"Sombra, you can't just kidnap a mare and force her to love you, that's absurd, it's really bad to force someone in a love habit! After all I've been through..." She looks back at the rose, she levitates it back to Sombra, Sombra's face turned from calm to a little frown.

"I understand, but if you want, the cage is down, you're free to roam around in this room, and this room alone. At least you have a taste of freedom." Sombra said, levitating the rose back up and putting it in a nearby flower vase.

"Call me when you need anything dear." Sombra said, turning back and about to leave.

Twilight bit her bottom lip, she sighed."Sombra. Wait..." She calls out. She looks down at the ground, carefully taking a step out of the cage for the first time in months. 

"Yes, my dear?" Sombra asks, patiently awaiting the young Alicorn to answer.

"T-th..." Her eyes started watering, tears dripping down her face rapidly, she ran up to Sombra, hugging him tightly.

"THANK YOU!" She yelped, crying on Sombra's shoulder.

Sombra looks surprised by Twilight’s actions. "Y-your welcome." He said, slightly baffled by her actions. 

Twilight then looks at him, tears still filled her eyes.

"Thank you so much..." She moved from the hugs, she smiled a little.

"Are you hungry, do you want something to eat or drink?" He asked, his tone calm and reassuring.

"Yes." Twilight said. 


"We'll get you something to eat." Sombra ignited his horn, making a strawberry whipped cream smoothie appear in front of Twilight.

"Mix of chunks of Strawberries with lovely whipped cream, solid and liquid altogether." He levitates the food to Twilight, waiting for her to grab the smoothie.

Twilight looks at the shake, slightly confused. "Uh... thanks?" Twilight said, looking at the shake. 

"Did you put anything in it?" She asks before taking a sip of her shake.

"I knew you would say that, I didn't add anything in it besides Whipped cream and strawberries." Sombra said, his tone calm and reassuring.

"Go try it, it's delicious." Sombra said, smiling a little.

Twilight then takes a sip of her shake, enjoying the flavor as it hits her taste buds. "This is delicious." She said, giving him a soft smile.

Sombra smiles back, only a little, he then turns back to the hallway headed for the 2nd story of the ruined castle.

"I have much more to attend to, your welcome to roam around." Sombra said, his voice still calm, he walks out but stops.

"And dear, avoid making a mess." Sombra said his voice sternly, Sombra walked out the chamber, leaving the door open.

Twilight looked at Sombra. “Avoid making a mess? Ha! I'm the most organized pony there is." She said. 

"Then you're most likely to help me organize some of my books? Don't worry I'll help out as well." Sombra said turning to Twilight, his smile showing.

"After all, as you said, "Organized Pony", kinda give a lovely flare to you".  Sombra said, blushing a little.

"Come, we have much to fix here." Sombra said headed towards the stairs.

Twilight follows Sombra out of the chambers and up to the second floor.

"This castle is 67 years old, old yet stable if you asked me, architecture is not that bad, the foundations still holding after 67 years." Sombra started making conversations with Twilight, not killing the mood.

"The books I have are all about spells, millennial time spaces and Dark magic, back in my day when I was still a "Normal" pony, I excelled beside Starswirl." Sombra said, opening the doors to the library, the library is filled with books categorized from magic to history.

Twilight's eyes widened in awe at how enormous the library was. "How long have you had these books?" Twilight asks, curiosity getting the best of her.

"Ever since my defeat from the 6 of you, these books were left for 8 years, but I saw your every move, even in my death I can see all of your moves, including your friends." His tone is calm and a bit Stern, but he brushes the anger off of him looking at the books.

"I don't blame you for defeating, sometimes crises have to be diverted into something peaceful, it's the law of nature..." He said, dusting the dust off of the books that were in the first category.

Twilight watches Sombra carefully, not knowing what to say.

"And freedom has its own time to pass, my dear." Sombra said, placing the books into its proper shelves.

"Sombra, why are we talking about this?" Twilight questions Sombra, who stopped dusting the last book.

"Because I just wanted to settle down from all the evils I've done, I wanted to settle down with a mare..." He looks at Twilight, a calm expression on his face.

Twilight blushed a little. "Y-you mean- me?" She asks, slightly stuttering. 

"Why of course, Who else would I be talking about?" Sombra asked, his voice remaining calm.

"S-Sombra, y-you know I..." Twilight said stuttering word for word.

"You what dear?" Sombra said, his expression still calm and tolerant to her.

"I can't Sombra, I have a daughter who needs me more, that's why I was about to ask you to release me, I know you have a heart Sombra." Twilight said, pleading to Sombra to set her free.

"In due time dear, in due time." Sombra said, still dusting off the dust on the books he was levitating.

"But there is no time Sombra, Harmonia needs me!" Twilight said, her tone beginning to be frantic.

"Now, I will release you, in one condition, but I will ask you that in due time.” Sombra said, his tone beginning to be stern.

"And that is?" Twilight asked, her tone, cautious.

"If you would marry me?" Sombra made the box appear in front of Twilight, revealing the ring from the inside.

"Just accept it, and all is well my dear queen." Sombra said, his tone calm and cautious.

Twilight looks at the ring, baffled a moment. ".... Sombra, I..."

She sighs. " Sombra, you have been nothing but a gentlecolt, really you have... but I-I can't accept it." She said, carefully choosing her words.

"I understand, maybe in due time I can make you change your mind, but for now, kindly help with this dear?" Sombra said gesturing at the books he was dusting.

Sombra placed the box with the ring in it somewhere on top of the shelves, and proceeded with the next shelf with Twilight.

"What would you like for dinner dear?" Sombra questioned Twilight beside him, trying his best to make conversation.

"Honestly I'm not all that hungry." She mutters, as she eyed where Sombra placed the box.

"Are you sure dear? You look a little distressed." Sombra questions Twilight, who kept her eye on the box that was placed.

"You must eat something Twilight, keep yourself healthy as they say." Sombra said placing the books one by one in each category.

Twilight moved her gaze from the box to Sombra. "I'm sure." Twilight said, giving him a soft smile.

"Alright then, if you want I can show you the rest of the castle after we're done here, after all it's my first time showing "visitors" around my humble abode." Sombra said with a sarcastic and funny tone.

"If you would help me in arranging these books? I know you're quite the bookworm." Sombra said, joking around with Twilight.

Twilight blushed. As much as Twilight loved her organization of books, she just felt really tired at the moment. She yawned. "I think I'm going to pass. What time is it anyway?" She asks.

Sombra looked at the grandfather clock, and turned back to Twilight "It's already 12:45AM, I didn't know we were up late." Sombra's eyes widened a little.

"I guess we can fix the books some other time, for now we should get some rest, there is a spare room in the other hall just ahead, it may make you feel at home." Sombra said ready to guide Twilight to her new room across the Eastern hall of the half ruined castle.

"Thanks." She said. 

They both made their way down the hallway. Making small conversation as they walked.

"So, you have a daughter? What is her name if you don't mind me asking? And no I'm not gonna "harm" her in case you get any bright ideas." Sombra's tone was blunt at the end of his question, he giggled to himself.


"I do. Her name is Harmonia. For a nine year old she sure is smart." Twilight said.

"She must be beautiful like you." Sombra said, blushing a little not letting Twilight notice.

Sombra sighs. "A beautiful one she must be, and she must've inherited her smartness and beauty from you." Sombra smiled softly at her.

"I take it that you make her read your books every night?" Sombra said, his tone curious and soft.

Twilight gave a soft sigh, giggles a bit. "Not really. She mostly likes fairytale stories, normally I just tell her all the adventures my friends and I went on." Twilight explains.

"Like the adventures of you saving the Crystal Empire from me?" Sombra questioned, giggling at him and Twilight.

"Fillies and Colts these days, they love a good fantasy, but at some point, they have to know when fantasies end." Sombra said, musing to himself.

“You do know that was Spike who saved the Crystal Empire, right?” Twilight asks. 

“Indeed, but it would have been better if it was you.” He said, giving her a small smile. 

"Besides, a mare in distress is so funny to scare." Sombra giggled at Twilight, giving her a little soft, and gentle nudge.

"Plus at that time I could've gotten you, but alas, I was in the dark." The king of Shadows looked at the dark red tinted windows, drizzles of rain were seen outside.

Twilight watched for a moment, unsure of what to say.

"Putting that aside, here you go, I fixed it when you were down in the chamber." Sombra opened the wooden spruce door, dimly lit lights illuminating the room, a fixed shelf filled with Equestrian History and a bottle of champagne sat on the night table.

"It's not much, but it's for your entertainment purposes and for you not to get bored." Sombra said, slightly blushing at Twilight.


***


Meanwhile...

Harmonia wanders the hallways alone. It’s been four months and her mother had yet to return. 

“I have to do something to help her, but I’m not even sure where she’s located! Her cutie mark is still hovering over the Crystal Empire for pony sakes!” Harmonia mutters to herself. 

“And I have no clue who has even taken her.” Harmonia said. 

She let her paws do the walking. “Maybe there’s something in mommy’s library about where she is.” Harmonia said. 

She hurries to the library and flips on the lights, she began rummaging through the books her mother has available. 

“.... Seaponies of Seaquestria.” Harmonia said. 

“The Lost Idol of Griffinstone…” 

“The History of Canterlot….” 

“.... The History of The Crystal Empire! Yes! This is it!” Harmonia said, as she grabs the book from the shelf.

She begins to flip through the pages, hoping there are answers to her mother’s sudden disappearance. 

“All this is talking about is about a Crystal fair and the Crystal Heart! Ugh this is hopeless!!!” Harmonia groans, tossing the book to the side. 

She continues to scatter more books in front of her. Some from the present days and others from the past. 

Starlight and Tempest watch from the doorway of the library. “Harmony? What are you doing?” She asked her tone gently. 

Tears softly stream down the young filly’s face. “I… I was looking for answers, but this? This is hopeless. We are never going to find her. Are we?” Harmonia asked, looking up at her aunt. 

Starlight walks over to the filly and wraps her hooves around her. As much as she wished that she could give her words of advice at the moment she didn’t have any and she was a guidance counselor for ponysakes! 

She just wished she could find Twilight herself as well. 

Tempest walks over to the two looking down at them. “We will find your mother Harmony. Nopony is losing hope yet.” Tempest said, offering her a soft smile. 


***


Twilight's friend's, her brother and the Princesses all gathered in Twilight's Friendship Map room. 

"We can't just sit here and do nothing!" Shining said, furious that Sombra has taken his sister. 

"What does that monster even want with Twilight anyways?" Rarity asked. 

"Whatever the reason is I fear that it's not good." Luna mutters. 

9 Years later…. 

Harmonia watches as her mother’s cutie mark remains circling around the Crystal Empire’s hologram.

The room was dark and silent, Harmonia tried her best to blink back tears. 

She missed her mother terribly, she was now 15 and starting to lose hope that they were never going to find her. 

"The next right thing." Harmonia mutters to herself. 

The next right thing!" She repeats, this time louder and to no one. 

Harmonia then races out of her mother’s throne room. She knew exactly what she had to do. 


***


“So how's your little “plan” working out for you?” Evil Twilight asks, taunting the tyrant. 

Sombra rolled his eyes at the mares presents. “Oh come on Sombra, you know you enjoy seeing me.” Twilight teases. 

“I don't understand… It's been years and that stubborn mare is impossible. And besides, you're nothing but an imaginary monster, but I have plans for you..." Sombra looked  at the evil Twilight, his eyes pure red from anger and frustration.

"Once I break that do gooder, you get in her head and you, make some changes." Sombra laughed at Evil Twilight, he then turned to the room where the normal Twilight was held.

"Are you ready to make changes..." Sombra said, turning back to the evil Twilight that gazed upon him.

"That's why you created me right, to get inside that little head of hers, you Sombra have a desperate attitude." The evil Twilight said in sarcasm, her tongue sticking out.

"You do not amuse me in any way...now go back to the chamber, I'll lure her out of the room." Sombra headed for Twilight's room, unsure of what to say and his guilt getting the best of him, he tried to shake it off.

"Twilight dear, can we talk?" Sombra knocked gently, not wanting to startle the Princess of Friendship.

"Sure." Twilight said calmly getting up from her sitting position. 

"Is everything okay?" She asks, her tone calm.

"Y-yes everything is fine, I prepared something for you down in the chamber, and you'll love it!" Sombra beamed fakely, but not letting it slip.

"Besides a mare like you could do some beautiful changes around here." Sombra said, his voice beginning to be calm.

"Come my dear you must see what I prepared for you!" Sombra guided Twilight to the chamber.

"Is it food or something? Because I just ate the leftover cranberry cookies you gave me the other day." Twilight said, giggling to herself.

"It's not that dear, it's this." Sombra opened the door, the chamber surrounded with light blue crystals aligned perfectly on the walls and ceilings.

"I made it roomy as much as possible, come let me show at the center." Sombra guided Twilight to the center of the chamber.

"Okay..." Twilight said, following Sombra to the center of it. 

"Now what?" Twilight asks.

"Now is the time to make things more, extravagant..." Sombra's eyes turned red in front of Twilight, Twilight was shocked as she looked into Sombra's eyes.

"Do a favor and close the cage for me." The evil Twilight closed the cage, the bars were now filled with Sharp crystals.

"You see dear, it has been years since I haven't proposed to you yet, I was warming up to you from time to time but you don't listen to me!" Sombra snapped in front of Twilight as he levitated the box with the ring inside.

Twilight looked at him. A look of hurt and betrayal edged on her face. "Y-you used me?" Twilight's voice felt flat and broken. 

"That's the idea, duh." The evil one said, her tone full of sass and sarcasm. 

Twilight narrowed her eyes at her villainous counterpart. "I wasn't talking to you." She said, her tone bitter.

"Well you see, it's been years, I proposed billions of times and you don't make it easy!" Sombra stomped his hooves to the cobblestone floor, the Crystal's turning red but not doing anything.

"Do I really have to send her into your head!?" Sombra pointed at the evil Twilight.

"Just to make you mine if I have to, but in due time, we have guests arriving..." Sombra showed a vision of the mane 5 and the kids along with Shining and the others headed this way.

"You monster! Why would you do this to me..." Twilight said, her voice ragged and ready to cry.

"I trusted you Sombra! And you make a fool out of me! I will never marry you!" Twilight bucked the cage to set her free, but the Crystal's scratched her with every buck.

"You keep doing that and you're gonna get it, but that's beside the point, I want to make you my bride!" Sombra snapped in front of her, Twilight moved back a little, her fear getting the best of her.

"Now, what do we do to her?" Sombra looked at the evil Twilight who stood beside him.

Evil Twilight turns to Twilight giving her a smirk and a low sinister laughter. "Oh this will be fun." She mutters.

"You do what you want with her, I'll keep a watch on both of you..." She grinned at Twilight before backing up, letting the evil Twilight do her thing to Twilight.

"And dear, don't go easy on her this time..." Sombra smirked at Evil Twilight. "Don't let her change much, I want to let her daughter see what I've created..." Sombra commanded at Evil Twilight.

Evil Twilight nods, then turns her attention back to Twilight. "Oh! Don't worry... You won't feel a thing."

"No, please...STOP!" Twilight yelled, as Evil Twilight entered her mind once more, Twilight's body stood still, her eyes white and her pupils drained of its color.

"Get...out of my...h-head..." Twilight pleaded before lying down on the cold hard metal floor.

"Now this should be interesting..." Sombra watched as he looked at Twilight, her gaze upon him was pitiful, tears streaming down her face.

"Soon, Equestria will be no more to the likes of us...my queen..." He grinned at Twilight before leaving the chamber.
> Chapter 19: The Shadow's Bride
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

At the woods, the entire group went in further, the corners were dark, the ground was misty, and the trees were carved with faces.The whole group pushed forward, along with the kids.

Starlight and the rest entered the darkest part of the Everfree forest, the ambience started to change, as the fog thickened a little, and sounds from every corner could hear.

“I'm not liking this Starlight, do you really think she went this way?” Applejack said unsure of where this is going.

“Judging by the tracks momma, she was definitely here!” Honey Crisp said, investigating the tracks.

“Mom, are we fine?” Cotton Berry asks, a little frightened by what they saw.

“We're fine Sweetheart, were fine!” Pinkie Pie said, putting her son behind her, shielding him.

“We stick together, no matter what happens!” Prism’s face became serious, he went side by side with his mom.

“THIS IS GONNA BE AWESOME!” Squeals Confetti Pop, who was bouncing beside Honey Crisp. 

“As long as we stick together we're going to be fine!” Prism said, his tone confident.

“I am not stopping here.” Harmonia said, her voice full of determination. Her horn lit up, she illuminated into the darkness, along with the other unicorns and Cadence, Cadence looked at her kids.

“My sweet peas, stay behind mommy and daddy ok!” Cadence said, gathering Crystal and Flurry Heart behind her. 

“I don't like the look of this one bit…” mutters Shining Armor. 

The spear lights up with illumination.

“Be prepared for anything, keep moving forward.” Said Starlight. 

The bushes brustled wildly, whispers heard from the trees and plants near, a black figure was standing near a broken down tree, twitching a little.

“Excuse me, are you alright? Are you lost?” Starlight asks, her tone cautious, she goes near the figure, the figure didn't respond, all it did was twitch and twitch, whispering something at the same time.

More of them appeared, appearing slowly in front of them, it surrounded them little by little. Their eyes glowed green eyes, red Iris and purple mist coming out of it.

Starlight went up to one of the figures, as it turned around and shrieked at Starlight. Starlight’s eyes widened and she took a step back, she blasted the monster with her magic, the figure disappeared in a black puff of smoke. 

Starlight blew the thin smoke coming from her horn. “It's definitely the work of Sombra!” she warns. 

A wicked cackle erupts through the forest.  One of them spoke, but this time it was Sombra's voice.

"You dare come here, but I do think you remember me..." The figures charged at them.

The figure charged up to Shining, the kids hid behind him, Shining shoved the shadow off and stabbed it with the spear, the shadow looked at him and roared in a demonic tone, shining finish it off with a blast of light from his horn. 

“Watch your backs, don't let them swarm you!” Shining yelled, as he stabbed a creature through the chest, the creature fades returning back to the shadows.

Cadence was pounced by a shadow, but she blasted them off, she stood up looking at the others, Applejack and Honey Crisp bucked the shadow off of Pinkie Pie, while Pinkie Pie and Confetti blasted some with the party cannon.

“They just keep coming!” Harmonia yelled, blasting more coming her way, the shadow shrieked at her but she shot it's mouth, letting it fade.

“We need to get out of here! Everyone run back now!” Starlight yelled, carrying Harmonia behind her.

“I didn't know he came back…” Rarity said, as she blasted a shadow figure nearby Fluttershy, Fluttershy hid behind Rainbow Dash and Prism, she hugged her son tightly.

“Stay with me sweetie!” She hugged her son tightly, shielding him from the fight. They both ran out along with Pinkie Pie and the others. Rarity and Ophelia followed Applejack and Honey Crisp to safety.

Rainbow Dash fended off some of the shadows, but they moved back slowly. 

“There's too many of them!” Rainbow shouts, bucking a few away.

“I just said that!” Harmonia screams back, blasting more shadow figures. 

“That’s it! We are leaving! Follow me!” Prism yells, letting her mother follow him and the others.

Rainbow Dash leads the others who are about to escape out of the forest.

One of the shadows spoke in Sombra’s voice, it's eyes different from the rest of the shadows, it was color red, signifying anger.

"Escape while you can, and I will spare you, you resist and you will face severe consequences..." The shadows just kept charging on and on, the former shadow that spoke was blasted, but another shadow had it's eyes glowing red.

Shining shot his horn at the shadowy figure.  “I'd rather take the latter!” He sneers at the shadow, getting ready to retreat with Harmonia and Applejack and Starlight. Cadence ran out with the others along with Crystal and Flurry Heart. 

The other shadow replied, with the same voice and eyes as the previous shadow

"As you wish Shining Armor...your sister will die along with many other ponies that are breathing your precious air!" The shadows charged on and on, Shining had no choice but to retreat, they all pulled back, running away from the monsters that were chasing them, they reached the end of the forest, where the monsters stopped chasing them, they all growled and moved back to the shadows.

The group ran back to the castle.


***


                               

The guards were shocked by how exhausted the group came from running, Starlight slammed the door shut and locked it, she sat down and panted for awhile.

“Have you seen Twilight?” Questions Tempest. 

“No, but we were attacked by Sombra! He returned…” Starlight panted heavily, trying to catch her breath.

“I thought we defeated him! How could this be happening, Twilight…” she sits down catching her breath.

“I know Twilight, she's the tough type, she's braver than me she knows how to handle her danger, right now we gotta go back in there and save her!” He said opening the door a little but he was stopped by wife's voice.

“We can't! The Forest is flooded with those creatures!” Cadence said to Shining, shining closed the door and putting his spear down.

“What creatures?” She questions with great concern, she helped the princess get up slowly from exhaustion.

 “Shadow like creatures, their faster and stronger in the dark!” Harmonia spoke up, trying to catch her breath.

“IT WAS INSANE OUT THERE!” Confetti and Cotton Berry yelled at each other, shivering in fear.

“You got that right, there faster than me and Mom!” Rainbow Dash brushed her son's mane, smiling at him. 

“It was scary, really scary!” She hugged her son, her son was shivering in fear, she rubbed the back of her son trying to calm him down.

“What do we do?” Pinkie Pie questions everyone, she then looks at Starlight, she was thinking of a plan but nothing came to her yet.

“Honey, what should we do?” Shining  looks at Cadence, getting up slowly, his hooves wiggly and tired from running really fast. 

Cadence looks at the scared group of fillies and colts. “I'm not entirely sure.... Even I don't have a plan, we might not even save Twilight in time.” Cadence said

“For now we need to rest for the night.” Starlight recommends to everypony, everypony nods.

“I also believe Twilight wasn't wandering around, she was kidnapped!” Starlight moved back and forth, thinking possible ways about Twilight getting kidnapped or lost.

“By King Sombra you say?” Tempest places a hoof on Starlight's shoulder, she calmed down a little, smiling at Tempest.

“Yeah, she showed me the markings, all evidence leading to Sombra, and he's got my sister!” Shining went back down with other royal guards who were behind Shining, while more were guarding the rooms and the living room.

“Cadence, it's better if we head in there again, with the help of the Guards we can get through the Forest, all we need is magic that can blast these creatures back to the shadows! Can your husband teach them how to fire a light beam? “ She asked Cadence as she gestured to the royal guards.

“I'm sure, it's possible. It may take a day or so but I believe it's possible!” Cadence said to Starlight, she turned back to the guards looking at them.

“Good, Shining, tomorrow morning tally up your finest, we're gonna go in by sunset tomorrow, Twilight needs us!” Starlight commanded Shining to train the guards. 

 “On it!” Shining ordered the guards in defensive positions, he looked to Cadence, he hugged her wife in a tight hug. 

“Kids, it's time for us to rest, go upstairs, get yourselves comfortable.” Starlight said, guided the kids upstairs.

“We will get her back, I promise, I know she's tough! She can make it through this.” Shining reassures Cadence, as she cries softly onto his fur.

Tempest and the royal guards were in the living room. Shining visits them, with a serious look on his face. “All of you, line formation!” Shining shouts. The Royal Guards followed, Tempest alongside Shining.

They discussed the training they're gonna take tomorrow.

“I hope you're ok Twilight…” She mutters to herself, as she thought of Harmonia.
            

***

Harmonia, Meadow, Ophelia, Prism, Cotton Berry, Confetti Pop and Honey Crisp were all gathered into one room of the castle. With the door closed. 

“That was terrifying! I do not wish to go back there!” Honey Crisp said, her voice raggedy and scared.

“But we have to go back! Aunt Twilight is trapped by that monster!” Prism said, ready for anything ahead of him.

“How? We don't even know how to stop him!” Ophelia said, stopping Prism from flying to the door.

 “I'm sure our Mom's will come up with a plan to stop him once and for all.” Meadow said, standing up but still shaking.

“Elements of Harmony....” Harmonia mutters to herself, but her eyes widened. 

“What was that, Harmonia?” Confetti Pop looked at Harmonia, a bit confused.

Harmonia turned to them. This time speaking in a bit louder. 

“Elements of Harmony. There are these little pieces of stone that got turned into jewelry back when my mom was a bearer of one of them.” Harmonia said, thinking of a plan for the Elements of Harmony.

“I'm not wearing some girly jewelry!” Prism shouted, sticking to his pride.

“Well I certainly wouldn't oblige “ Ophelia said, unsure of what's gonna happen.

“But that's just an old mare's tale.” Meadow Bliss said, not believing any of this.

“No it's not, what my niece is saying is true.” Starlight walked in, everypony looked at her.

“These elements saved Equestria many times, your parents are the bearers of these Elements.” Starlight said, sitting down beside Harmonia.

“This is one if the pieces to saving Equestria again. Your mother's are also the ones holding onto these stones. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Twilight…” Starlight looked at her niece and gave her a tight hug. 

“Without Twilight we can't use the elements, but I think you guys can.” She smiled at the kids.

 “So, are you prepared for it sweetpea?” She looks at Harmonia, rubbing her nieces back and mane.

“I guess, but where do we find those Elements?” She questioned Starlight, Starlight giggled at Honey Crisp for a second, Honey Crisp’s face was etched with confusion.

“Well your mother's hold elements of Harmony, that's why they wear the necklace around their necks, to keep it safe and secure, and those necklaces are the Elements of Harmony.” She explained to Harmonia, her friends were shocked that their parents were the carriers of the elements of Harmony.

Everypony looked at each other, having the same idea to tell there mom's to use the Elements of Harmony, but Prism had a negative expression.

"Where are the Elements now?" Confetti wonders. 

Starlight sighed. "Well your mother's had to give them back to the tree."

 “I told you I wasn't wearing no girly jewelry!” Prism shouted one more time, he grumbles, slightly annoyed by everyone.

“It's for the greater good of Equestria, so either ask your mom, or where all done for!” Ophelia snapped at Prism.

“Now let's calm down, I'm gonna go ask my mom about it, any of you with me?” Meadow Bliss looks at everypony around him.

 “I am!” Ophelia replied

“Me!” Harmonia replied

“Count us in!” Cotton and Confetti replied. 

 “If it helps Aunt Twilight then count me in!” Honey Crisp stood beside Meadow Bliss. 

Everypony looks to Prism awaiting his answer. 

He huffs, thinking for a moment. “I guess you can count me in!” Prism said, groaning a little.

Everyone replied, Meadow Bliss was about to open the door.

“Anyone objecting?” He questions everypony, shook their heads, Meadow smiled.

 “Then, everyone downstairs now!” Meadow Bliss headed down stairs,the others left Harmonia and Starlight alone in the room. Starlight was still hugging Harmonia, calming her down.

“Will get your mother back, I promise.” She says to Harmonia, a face of determination etched on Starlights face.


 ***

Sunset, and Phoenix walks to Twilight’s Castle, it was in the middle of the night, they were outside in their pony form, she knocks at the door but nobody answered.

“Uh? I really thought Twilight would be here.” Sunset said, looking at the window.

“Don't tell me we have to do more walking.” She complains to her mother. 

“That's strange, is anyone at home?” Sunset said, trying to call out anypony who might reply from the inside.

 She waited for ten minutes, but to no avail nopony answered. 

“Maybe aunt Twilight went somewhere.” Phoenix said, looking at her mother.

“Maybe in the Crystal Empire, she loves visiting her sister in law.” Sunset said, walking down the steps of the castle.

Phoenix looked at her mother a giddy, starstruck expression appears on her face. 
“AN EMPIRE MADE OUT OF CRYSTALS!? THAT IS AWESOME!” she squeals. 

Sunset giggled. ”Yes sweetie, and we are going to see your aunt!” She says with joy in her tone.

"Hey need a lift?" Asks a mysterious voice. Sunset and Phoenix turned to the mysterious voice it was Spike. 

“Hey Spike! Haven't seen you in forever! How have you been?” Asks Sunset. 

“I’ve been great actually! Just been extremely busy with the Dragon Lands and what not! Great to see you again Sunset.” Spike said, smile gently at the two. 

“Enough with the talking. I'm tired of walking so we can definitely use a lift!” Phoenix whines, the two giggled.

“Sure! Hop on you two, I'm gonna visit Twilight in the Crystal Empire anyway. I missed her so much.” Spike said lowering himself down a little, the two got on his back.

Spike opened his wings, the two climb up on Spikes back, holding on tightly to his back.He started hovering, flapping his wings harder he flew to the air, and headed straight for the Crystal Empire.

“Hold on! It's gonna get windy!” Spike flew forward fast, the two held on tightly.

“So, how are you two? He asked, his voice a bit loud from the wind gushing towards them.

“We've been hanging in there! Things have been rough with us for the past few weeks.” Sunset yells over the strong wind brushing against them.

“Whatever it is, I'm sure you two are doing well in coping in with it! I think Twilight is with her sister in law, we can pay a visit!” Spike yelled loudly, balancing himself as the wind gushed the three.

“May I ask what happened? Is it something serious?!” He said loudly as he could.

“It's nothing major!” Sunset yells back. 

Phoenix gawks at her mother. "Nothing major! Mom.... We just walked out on Dad! Because you couldn't handle arguing anymore!" She yells over the wind.

Spike keeps quiet, not wanting to trigger another fight.

“Alright, putting that aside, I heard Twilight and the gang have kids! Kids you'll love to meet!” He yells at Phoenix, trying to change the subject.

Sunset sighs, trying to brush off the feeling of guilt.

“Really?! I hope they're the same kids I saw a few months back.” Phoenix wished, looking down at the clouds.

“You'll like them even more, their the best sweet peas you'll ever meet, in fact were already here!” He giggles and he stopped flying, he landed carefully on the ground, on the other side of the Crystal Empire gate. 

Phoenix and Sunset landed on their hooves, their saddle bags in place. Spike cleaned his wings a little. Sunset and Phoenix cleaning themselves up.

“You guys wanna meet the gang?” He asks, as he brushed off the dust of dirt off of his shoulder.

Phoenix held a giddy expression on her face. “Sure!” 

Spike went ahead, guiding the two around the place. “I have been meaning to see them for a while now, feels like a decade since I last saw them.” He said, as he took in the fresh air of the Crystal Empire, crickets making relaxing sounds, the night sky shining down on them, stars twinkling in the dead of night.

‘So, what brings you two here?” He questions Sunset as they walked.

Sunset sighs. "It's more of a stay than a weekend visit here." She mutters to the dragon.

“Judging by what your daughter said earlier, it's better to keep things subtle.”
He whispered quietly to Sunset, making sure the daughter didn't hear.

“ Well it's glad to have you back, and the gang missed you so much.” He chuckled.

“And I think it's just right around...there!” He spotted the castle of Twilight's sister in law, but his expression changed from happy, to a slight worried look, since the mane 5 were there, un-relaxed and not well rested.

“We have a problem here…” He said, his tone was worried.


        ***


Heavy rain and lightning strikes clouded the sky above. 

Raindrops sliding down both Twilight’s fur and muzzle along with what she was up against…. Canterlot guards. 

“It doesn’t matter how many of you there are. Each of you will fall.” Twilight said. 

They charged towards Twilight, causing her to go into defense mode and began to fire a blast at them causing them to fallback. 

“Twilight! Stand down.” Shining called out to her. 

Twilight narrows her eyes at her brother. “You’re the one who should stand down dear brother while you still can.” Twilight warns. 

Shining draws his sword from his shaft. “I’m sorry, but I can’t.” He said, his voice full of confidence. 

“Then you shall fall with them.” Twilight sneers, firing a blast at Shining. 

Shining manages to dodge his sisters on coming attacks. Once he was in throwing range he throws his sword at his sister barely missing her only to graze her fur. 

“I knew you’d never have the guts to fight back.” Twilight said. 

“Twilight I can’t fight you.” Shining said, his voice breaking. 

“Then you will never be able to protect Equestria!” Twilight said, charging at him with a sword of her own. 

Shining quickly reacted by pulling out one of his own the sound of metal against metal clanging. 

Shining Armor woke up in a puddle of sweat, his breathing heavy as he looked over at his wife who was still sleeping. 


***


“Princess Celestia, Princess Luna as the  Captain of the Canterlot Royal Guard I have sworn my life to protect whatever threat Equestria holds at all cost. However as a bother I cannot face my sister in battle and so it is with a heavy heart that I resign as Captain of the Royal Guard.” Shining said, taking off his helmet. 

Celestia and Luna looked at one another, before nodding and looking at Shining Armor. 

 “Shining Armor you have served Equestria and Canterlot for many years. We want to thank you and we want to say that we respect your decision on the matter at hoof.” Celestia said. 

“But the question we have for you Shining Armor is… who will take your place?” Luna asked. 

“I’ve had countless of my guards risk their lives for Equestria. He is superior in their skills, but I believe this type of leadership should be handled within my family and should be passed down for generations yet to come. So I would like to appoint my daughter Flurry Heart as the next Captain of the Royal Guard.” Shining said, his voice was full of confidence. 


***

Shining Armor and Cadence sounds muffled through the closed bedroom door. 

“Are you sure Shining?” Cadence asked her husband her voice full of concern.  

“I’m sure of it, but we will discuss this more over dinner tonight.” Shining said, before opening the bedroom door.


***


Flurry Heart spits out her tea. “What?! You want me to be Captain of The Royal Guard?!” Flurry asked her tone in disbelief. 

“What do you say?” Shining asked, giving her a small smile. 

“But Father she’s a princess not much less the protector of the Crystal Empire as future Queen.” Crystal said. 

She then came to the realization and gasped. “Does that mean I get to be the next future queen of the Empire?!” Crystal squeals. 

Shining and Cadence laughed. “Not exactly. I mean yes you are but this is Flurry’s decision to make. She’s still the future heir to the Empire throne till further notice.” Cadence said. 

Crystal crossed her hooves with a frown. “But I know what’s best for the Empire.” 

“I’m sure you do Crystal, but like your mother said this is Flurry decision and her decision alone.” Shining said looking at Flurry. 

“But dad, I don’t even know what to do to take your place even if I agree to it.” Flurry said. 

“Sure you do, besides I’ve seen you practice with Tempest a million times. You have the skills Flurry Heart.” Shining said, smiling at her.

“Dad…. that was just practice! And for fun not much less with Crystal by my side.” Flurry said.

“Hey!” Crystal said.

“But you do have what it takes Flurry. We have the utmost confidence in you and your abilities.” Cadence said. 

Flurry sighs. “Can I at least think about it? Sleep on it at least?” Flurry asked

“Of course. I know this is a lot to take in, but just know whatever decision you make we will still support you.” Shining said, smiling at his daughter. 


***


Flurry laid in her bed, tossing and turning. Her eyes remained closed, as if she was having a dream of some sort. 

Flurry Heart's eyes opened, she awakened surrounded by a crowd, but they weren't cheering for dear Flurry Heart, she stood up, looking at herself, she wasn't herself, but instead it's the grown up version of her, she was in shock to what she saw when she rushed to a nearby glass.

“Is this...i-is this real!?” Flurry asks, looking around at her surroundings. 

“Hello?!” She yelled, but no pony listened to her, as if Flurry Heart was invisible, she turned her attention to the pony they were cheering for, it was no other than Harmonia, ready to be crowned as princesses of Equestria and friendship, Flurry Heart felt a touch of comfort, as she dug through the crowd making her way to her cousin, but the environment changed, as darkness engulfs the area, leaving Harmonia and Flurry Heart to themselves, nobody was with her beside Harmonia, no guards, just Flurry Heart and her, Harmonia was suddenly wrapped by tentacle shadows wrapped around her wings and legs, she was being dragged, Harmonia cried out Flurry's name, saying these words.

“Help me Flurry!” Harmonia yelled.

Tears streamed down her cousins face, Flurry Heart rushed towards her and she grabbed Harmonia's hoof, pulling her back but to no avail, she was too late, Harmonia was now gone, swallowed by the raging darkness around them, from behind Harmonia, was a figure, with purple mist coming out of its head.

“You've failed everyone…” the figure spoke to Flurry.

The figure multiplied, repeating the same words, as they surrounded Flurry Heart, Flurry Heart covered her ears, gritting her teeth, trying not to listen, tears streamed from her eyes, until she snapped.


Twilight looked at her niece and a calm expression was on her face. 

Flurry's eyes were filled with tears. "Aunt Twilight... What's going on? Why are you with Sombra of all ponies?!" She asks, slightly confused. 

Twilight lightly giggles at her niece’s curiosity. "Sweetie, if you knew what I knew then you will come to an understanding that he is nothing but a gentlecolt." She swoons.

Flurry looked at her aunt. "Wait what?! Okay timeout how is Sombra somepony of any worth?! He enslaved crystal ponies for crying out loud!" 

Twilight laughter went from innocent to sinister. Her eyes glowing green and red iris and from the corners of her eyes came a purple mist. "And you won't be living to tell it!" She said, blasting dark magic at her niece. 

Flurry yelps. "Aunt Twilight! Snap out of it! This isn't you!" Tears formed in the corners of her eyes. 

Twilight didn't listen to the young filly, she held up a shield around her. "But I prefer this much better!" She snears, firing once more. 

Flurry jumps up from her sleep, sweat pouring down her face. Her heart racing as she tried her best to get her breathing back to normal. 

“Aunt Twilight...with Sombra, that can't be right! It can't be right…” Flurry mutters, she tears up a little, trying to gather herself from the event that just happened.

Flurry Heart then thought of an idea that could change the course of their daily lives, she then wipes her tears, as she smiled to herself.

“Yeah, that could work!” She said to herself as she went back to bed, she wrapped herself around her blanket, before she slept she looked at the picture of Twilight and her with Crystal.

“I'm doing this for you Aunt Twilight.” She mutters, she closes the lights and she goes back to sleep.


***


The next morning, Flurry Heart was no longer in bed, she went to her sister's room, but not wanting to wake up the others.

“I wonder if Crystal's awake…” She wondered to herself, she then opened the door slowly, she saw her sister sleeping, snoring ever so loudly, Flurry giggled and crouched, she trotted slowly near Crystal, but she stopped when she saw Crystal shift to a new position in her sleep hugging her pillow tightly.

“Hey Crystal…” She walked up to her slowly, shaking her a little.

“Not now mom...I'm busy…” She groaned at nopony, Flurry Heart giggled a little and she shook her again. 

 “Crystal it's me Flurry.” She went up to Crystal's face, when Crystal opened her eyes, she was surprised and she hit her head on the beds railing behind her. Her face was cringing in pain.

Flurry Heart laughed. “That's not funny Flurry Heart! I was trying to get some beauty sleep!” She yelled at her sister.

“Sorry! But I need to tell you something. “ Crystal narrowed her eyes at her sister. 

“If this is about another one of your dress emergencies then go bother Rarity or Ophelia for that matter... Just let me catch my beauty sleep....” She grumbles the last bit to herself, before drift back off to sleep. 

Flurry pounces on the bed, making her sister jump. “I swear to Celestia, Flurry if you do not get off of me- “ She threatens.

“But it's really important!” Flurry said with urgency. She kept on bouncing on the bed until her sister snapped.

“ALRIGHT!.. Just say it…” Crystal snaps. Flurry Heart smiles and she stops bouncing, she sits down.

“Well I know this is a bad time to say this but, do you want to be a Royal Guard?” Flurry said to her annoyed sister.

“Where are we going about this Flurry? And besides we're Princesses we don't do the heavy duty, we do light duty!” She bluntly stated at her sister.

“ I know, but- “ Flurry was cut off by her annoyed sister.

“Heavy duty is not our style Flur. You know that it's left to the colts and stallions.” She bluntly explains to her sister, her face filled with irritation towards her.

“Just listen to me! I had this dream where I saw Aunt Twilight with Discord, and that she doesn't want to be with us anymore!” Flurry said. 

Crystal rolls her eyes. “Oh please, that's just a nightmare Flurry, it's just a bad dream and it's all in your head!” She states to Flurry Heart, not wanting to make a conversation any further.

“Do you want to lose mom and dad too?” She asks Crystal.

“No, wait… what does this nightmare have to do with mom and dad?” Crystal questions her sister. 

Flurry sighed, slightly annoyed. “Would you let me finish?” she asks. 

“......Fine.” Crystal mutters, crossing her hoofs over her chest. “But if I fall asleep through any of my duties today, I’m blaming you.” 

“This will be fast I promise! Sombra will take our parents away if we don't do something, he might even do worse, take away everyone we know and care about the most! That is why I am asking you if you want to become a royal guard!” She says to Crystal, she's huffing from speaking too fast.

“Ok...I guess that can be an option, if needed…” She said with approval upon Flurry's request.

“There is no option! You wanna know why? Because I have this strange feeling that Aunt Twilight is in on this too!” Flurry Heart said, her tone full of suspension. 

 “But, Aunt Twilight wouldn't hurt the ponies she cares about Flur you know that.” Crystal lies back down, covering herself with the blanket, covering her ears with the pillow.

“You don't understand she attacked me in my nightmare but...it felt like a vision of some sort...but it doesn't matter, we need to take matters into our own hooves, and I say we become Royal Guards!” She states with dedication.

“Many lives are counting on us, including our parents, friends, and Harmonia and Aunt Twilight, Harmonia needs her mom more than ever Crystal, please have the heart to help her and me on this.” She said pleading to her sister, Crystal's ears perked up when she heard the word “parents”.

 "If I say yes, will you please get out of my room?" Crystal asks her sister.

Flurry beams at her. "Yes!" 

Crystal groans. ".... Fine. But if I break a hoof or something you are paying for whatever damage is done!" She snaps. 

Flurry rolls her eyes. "You can be such a drama princess." She said, her tone slightly sarcastic. 

She noticed that Crystal was pulling the covers back up on her. "What do you think you're doing?" Flurry asks, slightly curious. 

"What does it look like I'm doing I'm going back to sleep?!" She mutters, her tone full of sarcasm, her eyes remained closed. 

Flurry Heart grunts in anger, she pulls the covers away and she pulls her sister out of bed.

“We are going to see the pony that knows how to train us!” She says, slightly burdened by pulling her sister, she pulled her as hard as she can.

"But we have to go now!" Explains Flurry Heart. 

"It's 6:15 am. Who do you know that can train us at this time of the morning?!" Crystal asks, slightly annoyed. 

Flurry smirks, mostly to herself. "I have an idea who..."

“Great...more hard labor…” Crystal mutters to herself, she let's Flurry pull her until they reach the stairs.

“Am I gonna drag you down the stairs or your gonna walk down there like a normal pony would do.”  She questions Crystal in sarcasm.

“Can you please put me down! I think I know how to walk.” She hisses at her sister.

"Flur! Our hair is messed up! Do you expect us to go meet with Celestia knows who your talking about looking like hobo ponies?!" She narrows her eyes at Flurry. 

"Worry about your hair later! We have Equestria to save!" Flurry said.

“FINE JUST PUT ME DOWN!” She snaps at Flurry, Flurry let's her down but Crystal hits the floor with a semi hard thud, she shakes her head.

“ Not...funny...now let's go and see your "mentor".” She chuckles at Flurry Heart as she went down the stairs

“This mentor just happens to be the same pony who destroyed Canterlot all those years ago.... You don't know her, but I do sorta.” Flurry Heart said, as she grabs her saddlebag by the door.

“Wait who exactly is your "mentor" and why did that pony try to destroy Canterlot?” She questions with fear in her tone.

“Relax she's now reformed and she's a Royal Guard, she knows her stuff very well.” Flurry Heart said opening the door.

“Wait your “mentor” is a she!?” Crystal was shocked with so many surprises.

 “Ask questions later. Now come on we're losing daylight.” Flurry said walking out.

“It's almost 6:20 am, do you really think your mentor is up this early?” She puts her saddlebag on her back, following Flurry Heart out the door.

“Apparently she's training other Guards right now!” Flurry said sure of her actions,
She opens the door to the garden, seeing Tempest with the royal guards, training them with Combat weapons.

“Flurry do you think this is "appropriate" for little Fillies like us?” Crystal questions with sarcasm.

“Come on, I'm sure she will be thrilled to teach ponies like us.” Flurry said smiling at her sister.

“We are not like other ponies, we are Canterlot Royal Princesses' not Canterlot royal guards!” She hisses low to Flurry Heart as they slowly, but steadily approach the mare.

“Crystal, believe me when I say this but she'll be gentle with us, I'm sure of it!” Flurry said to her very annoyed sister.

“Your "sure of it", I'm not so sure you know what you're doing Flur.” She says bluntly.

“Well geez! Thanks for being so confident in me!” She mutters, Flurry and Crystal both get distracted by the moment of the soon to be next royal guards. 

Both so engrossed with their movements and use of swords that they didn't notice the mare standing over then, engulfing them in her shadow. 

Tempest clears her throat, slightly startling the young mares.

“Gah!” Crystal jumps in the air and lands on her side.

“How may I help you young mares today?” Tempest was behind them, holding a sword

“Oh you scared us! My name is Flurry Heart, daughter of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor of the Crystal Empire, and so is my sister Crystal.” Crystal stands behind Flurry, shaking in fear.

“I was wondering if you can…” She gulps, nervous about what she was about to say.

 “Go on?” Tempest said, letting the girls talk.

 “If you could... Um…” She gets lost by the appearance of the unicorn- or once unicorn, she noticed that her horn was broken. 

Crystal even took notice of the unicorn's broken horn. Crystal who stood behind Crystal shaking in fear asks Flurry in a hushed and low tone. 

“Is that a unicorn with a broken horn!?” Crystal was shocked, Flurry nudged her sister with her wing. 

“Shut up Crystal!” She hisses, her tone slightly threatening. 

Flurry then cleared her throat once again. "Y-Yes, I was wondering if you could train my sister and I to be a Royal Guard?" She swallowed the lump in her throat once again, still nervous as she waited for the mare to answer them.

“You two, Royal Guards?” She giggles, trying to hide her smile.

“I tell you being a Royal Guard is hard work dear, and I don't think you're ready for the task.” She said, looking back at the guards training with staff levitated on their horns.

“But if you are truly worthy, try carrying this sword.” Tempest stabs the sword in front of them, piercing the soil. The two staggered a bit and taken aback by the sudden sword slam.

“Go on, don't be scared.” Tempest said, grinning at them, their eyes widened. 

“You know what, I'm just going to go back to bed....” Crystal said, about to leave.

“I don't think you can leave.....” Flurry said, gulping a little.

“The little prissy pink princess is right powder puff, you can't.” Tempest said, she smirks at the two. 

“Hey! What's that supposed to mean?” Flurry asked, slightly offended. Crystal tries to levitate the sword out of the ground with her magic, but to no avail it didn't budge. 

Flurry tried next, it wiggled just a tad, but even by Alicorn magic it still didn't budge. 

Crystal tried once more, not giving up just yet. "How deep did you even stick this in the ground?!" She asked, still struggling to pull it out.
 
“If you are willing to be Royal Guards, you have to pull out the sword from the ground, to show me that you're worthy of being apart of my Royal Guard.” She said to Crystal.

“And powder puff it seems you can't pull the sword out of the ground.” Tempest replied, making fun of Crystal a little.

“DON'T TEMPT ME!”  She pulls harder, but to no avail, she runs out of breath and lies down, breathing heavily.

“Can you at least train us?” Flurry asks. 

Tempest nods, giving them a shred of hope to train. “Are you prepared?” she asks. 

Flurry nodded, Crystal nodded a little. Tempest quickly pulls the sword from the ground, setting it aside. She then hands the two girls two wooden swords.

“Here take these.” She instructed.

Flurry grabs the wooden sword’s handle with her hooves, she looks at Tempest.

“Now what?” Flurry Heart looks at Tempest, questioning her. 

She quickly turns her back to her former guards in training. “You guys can leave for the day. I will be dealing with these two.” Her eyes narrowed at the two. Crystal gulps slightly scared. 

Crystal trips Flurry with her sword, laughing as she falls to the ground.

“What was that for?!” Flurry asks, slightly annoyed.  Crystal’s only response was to stick out her tongue.

Tempest sighs, groaning. "This is going to be a long day!"


***


“A problem?” Sunset looked at Spike, a worried expression was on her face.

Spike reached the group, Fluttershy looked up from her gloomy mood, she saw Spike. “Spike, I-is that you?” she asked. 

“Hey Fluttershy.”  He smiled as Fluttershy hugged Spike tightly.

“We missed you so much!” She hugged him tightly crying a little. Sunset and Phoenix arrived as well. Rarity and Rainbow Dash greeted Sunset and the daughter.

“I see our girl has her own little bundle of joy.” Rainbow dash smiled at Sunset and she looked at Phoenix.


She giggled a she rubbed Phoenix's mane, she giggled.

“Darling we have a problem, Twilight is missing and we can't find her anywhere!” Rarity said, frantic and stressed.

“Twilight’s missing!?” Both replied.

“Yeah, but we have our lead, it's King Sombra that took her, and where running out of time to save her.” Starlight said, as she opened the front door Spike and Sunset were shocked by the news, Spike started to panic. Sunset tried to calm him down.

“Twilight's missing....” He hyper ventilated, Sunset and Phoenix tried to calm Spike down a little.

“Hey easy big guy, easy! I'm sure Twilights ok let's not think of the worse right now!” Sunset said calming him down.

“You can put your things in there Darling, for now you can place your little sweet pea upstairs with the rest of the kids.” Sunset nodded she then turns her attention to Phoenix.

“I need you to stay upstairs, you'll find your new friends there ok?” Sunset told her daughter, her daughter nodded.

“Ok.” Phoenix kissed her mom in the cheek and she placed both of their stuff on the living room couch.


 “Is Shining and Cadence alright?” She questioned Rarity.

“Were all fine darling but were so worried about Twilight.” Rarity replied to Sunsets question, a little worried.

“I thought Sombra was defeated when you guys handled him.” Sunset looked at them all stressed and frantic.

“We thought wrong sugar cube, his back and breathing.” Applejack said, anger engulfing her.

“THIS TIME STRONGER!” Pinkie Pie replied, she snapped in between Applejack and Rarity.

“Let's go inside, Spike?” Sunset said. Spike nodded and calmed down a little, they all went inside.

 “Nice to meet you again Sunset, what brings you here?” Starlight questions Sunset.

“Well I did come to visit Twilight, but now that's out of the question.” She said, her tone filled with worry.

“Well, at least we got a lead to where Twilight went, somewhere deep in the Everfree Forest I should say, we got Royal Guards with Shining and Tempest.” Starlight said to Sunset, she smiled at her friend.

“Wait who's Tempest?” Sunset questioned. Tempest walks up behind the group. 

“That shall be me.” Sunset turned around, shocked by her appearance.

Sunsets eyes widened from the sudden appearance of Tempest.

“Oh you must be Tempest, nice to meet you.” She giggles nervously, shaking the hoof of Tempest.

“Pleasure to meet you miss Shimmer, Twilight has told me all about you, I was once a villain too, now reformed and given a new beginning thanks to your dearest friend, and we're doing the best we can to find the Princess.” She states. Sunset nods in agreement.

“Maybe we can help? After all you guys need an extra hoof.” Sunset said. 

 “To be honest, we can use all the help we can get.” Applejack said looking at Spike and Sunset.

“That's why we're here,  we are going to  find Twilight.” Spike said calming down a little.

“His right, we already got a plan or we can make one?” She questioned Starlight.

“We already got one, and it's underway, Shining and Tempest already rallied some Guards for searching and protection, I hope Twilight is ok.” Fluttershy replied to Sunsets question.

“Let's not stray further, Twilight is fine, you all know how Twilight handles her own situation.” Rarity said, reassuring them.

“She's right!” Rainbow Dash replied.

“Are we done? We still need to plan out for search party members.” Starlight said still thinking of a plan.

“Do you have any suggestions Sunset dear?” Rarity questions Sunset.

Sunset thought for a moment. She shook her head. “None that I can think of at the moment.” Sunset said as she scratched the back of her head.

“Maybe she and I can go with the Royal Guards, or if you want I can accompany. In case things get bad.” Spike recommended to the others.

“You sure Spike?” Starlight questions spike.

“For Twilight.” He said to Starlight smiling at her.

“I like your spirit!” Applejack beamed.

“Alright Applejack, Rarity and Spike you go with the search party, we leave at daybreak.” Starlight commanded at the others.


Spike and the two nodded.

“Sunset you can stay with us for awhile, we will make our move once we hear news from the search party.” Starlight said to Sunset, Sunset nods.

“You got it!” Pinkie replied

“Well, I guess I can tag along.” Fluttershy replied, with a hint of worry in her voice.

“Are you with us Sunset?” She questions Sunset.

“Definitely! “She nods her head, her voice full of determination.

“Alright, then that's about it! Tempest and Shining got the Royal Guards, we have nothing to worry about, and for Twilight, let's not waste too much time. She's counting on us and her daughter. Let's not put this to waste. Everyone lets sleep, tomorrow morning we go with the plan as follows. Our priority is Twilight, she's our friend and she did everything for us, it's time we repay the favor!” Starlight said, her tone full of confidence. 

Everyone cheered with determination in each of them.


***

After a few hours, Celestia and Luna with Discord were already inside a royal carriage, were two Pegasus royal guards were prepared for take off, along with 3 escorts, The carriage flew to the Crystal Empire.

"I feel like it's my fault Luna, I should've never done this in the first place..." She said to her sister, Luna was surprised that Celestia only thought of this now, Luna snapped "And you realized that now!? After all of the setbacks you made on Twilight, taking her husband away from her!? You are truly sick Tia!" She spat at her sister, foul words that stunned Celestia, Celestia felt guilty, she went silent, Discord watching done at the ground wondering if she was ok, or taken back to the Castle of the Crystal Empire.

The argument lasted over 20 minutes until they reached the Crystal Empires landing space, the royal carriage landed, the guards opened the doors, Luna rushed out being followed by the 3 Guards, Celestia and Discord, as they reached the castle doors.

They saw the Mane 5 with Spike and Sunset, Luna reached the group, but she was stunned by their faces when they looked upon Celestia.

"What are they doing here?" Applejack wonders, her tone full of distaste. 

"Sadly, they are here to help." Mutters Luna.

"We didn't come here to play Guilt Trip, we came here to help you find Twilight." Explains Discord. 

"Well I don't think we ask for your help." Sneers Rainbow Dash. 

Harmonia peeks from behind Rarity, silently observing the situation. 

"Mom is gone because of you." She mumbles.

The Princesses happen to over hear the tiny draconequus.

Discord’s eyes widened at her daughter's words, he slowly came forward, kneeling down in front of Rarity, looking at her daughter. "I know it's daddy's fault sweetheart, and I'm terribly sorry...b-but right now...we have to focus on Twilight." He said to her daughter, wiping her tears away, he stood up looking at Rarity, her glare filled with distaste and anger. 

Sunset entered the scene, slightly confused, Spike on the other hand was observing from above. "What's going on here? They're here to help us girls!" She looked at the mane 5, confused at the situation in front of her.

Pinkie Pie bounced between the ground, giggling. "Ooooo yeah, she's left in the dark about everything..... well.... You missed her being born." Pinkie Pie explains, holding up Harmonia. “And you missed Twilight and Discord wedding, which crashed and burned.” Pinkie mutters the last bit to herself.

“Miss.Pie!” Rarity snapped at Pinkie Pie, Pinkie pie's eyes widened and she placed Harmonia back to the ground, Rarity explains the current situation. "Well you see dear, Discord here left Twilight, and he is the reason for all of ''THIS” !" She snapped as she looked at Discord, Discord growled at the white unicorn.

Applejack went in front of Rarity, looking at Discord right in the eye "To be honest with y'all, I think it's best if we start searching, and stop fighting, because Twilight needs us, right Discord?" She looked at Discord right in the eyes, Discord calmed down and said "yes".

Sunset's eyes widened at Discord, she looked at him and she shook her head, not believing any of this to be true. "Twilight loved you...you sold her out to who!" She yelled at Discord, Discord pointed bluntly at Celestia, who was looking at the ground, tears streaming from her eyes.

Sunset was furious, she didn't say anything except these words "I can't believe you, my teacher, my mentor, and all of this, because of replaceable love, you should've known better..." She then turns away.

Sunset was ashamed of her mentor, that she was even capable of something like this. 

"The longer we spend here arguing, the longer Twilight is still trapped with that monster." Explains Spike, who was hovering over the group. 

"He's right." Mutters Shining. 

"So please, let us help you." Begs Celestia.

 Luna looks at her sister, she looks at the mane 5, tears streaming down on Harmonia's face, Luna's expression was serious, she then ordered "Let's go save our princess of friendship..." She said as the whole group cheered, Discord and Celestia were silent.

The Royal Guards were now ahead of Shining and Tempest, with their weapons ready and their armour heavy, the kids followed their parents behind Cadence and Starlight, Sunset and Phoenix we're at the back of Spike, who was flying above them.

"Where was her last known location, Starlight?" She questions Starlight, who was beside Luna and Cadence.

"Her last known location was here to be exact." Starlight explains. 

"But it lead us to the forest." Explains Honey Crisp. 

"Then that's where we will go." Said Luna. 



***

The group entered the forest, all unicorns illuminated their horns, Shining announced with great urgency "May I advise you that we will encounter a threat deeper in this forest, blast it with your light, and they will go away, do not stray from the group, that's an order to everyone!" He commands to the entire group, all unicorns and the others nodded.

Discord said in silence "I don't like the feeling that I sense in these woods, reminds me of that pony who is always on edge." 

Pinkie Pie replied to Discord "Is it Sombra your talking about? His always the edgy villain isn't he?" Discord replied to the pink fluffy pony "And to think that he’s the villain, who has my..." He clenched his paw, shaking away the anger.

Luna broke the conversation "Let's just keep moving Pinkie, no time to waste." She looked at Discord, and looked at the trail that they were following, they stopped at the place where they were attacked before.

Shining made the group stop, as the Royal guards were around inspecting the are for any signs or tracks.

Celestia looked at them, then questioned "What do we have here?"

"Stay close, you don't want to attract attention to these things..." Shining said to the guard that neared the dark corner of the forest, they heard a brustle from a nearby bush, the guards surrounded the group, readying their horns.

Cadence shields her daughter's, the mane 5 did the same, Harmonia hid behind Starlight. "Something bad is about to come out, and here it comes..." Discord said as he heard a shriek coming from his side, a sound of a demonic shriek was heard from the dark forest.

Celestia shields her sister, her horn glows brightly. "Sister I can handle myself!" Luna said to her sister "Even if your mad at me my duty as your sister stands, I don't want you to get hurt!" She snapped at Luna, after all of the fighting.

"I'm not a filly anymore Tia you know that!" The shadow figure jumped out from the side of Cadence, roaring at her, Shining blasted the creature back from the shadows.

"What are those things?" Phoenix asks. 

"I don't know, but whatever they are you stay behind me!" Sunset blasted a shadow that was headed for them, the guard picked up hoofprints that leads deeper to the forest. "Everyone head forward! Tempest give me a hoof, we need to give them time!" Shining ordered the group to head forward as Starlight picked up more hoofprints, Sunset and Starlight headed forward along with the group, leaving Spike with the royal guards and Tempest.

"Shining, you stay safe!" Cadence kissed Shining before she ran with the group, Shining nodded as he blasted another 
shadow back, the guards guarded the entrance to the deeper part of the forest fending off any shadows.

"Starlight, look more hoof prints, she must be close by!" Sunset said as the whole group followed. "Great, were nearing her!" Starlight said as she rushed.


***

It's been 9 years since Twilight has been captured, but if Twilight had to be honest Sombra hasn't been all that horrible to her. He has his days sure, but he wasn't that cruel.

Twilight looks around her chamber. Sombra emerges from the shadows.

Sombra circled around Twilight like he always does, Sombra wicked grin at Twilight, and turned his attention to her cage. "You truly are a keeper, for surviving this long in my sanctuary, yet you resist my love for you, how is that Ms Sparkle?" He questions Twilight with a wicked grin on his face.

Twilight looks at her capture. "Because I don't have feelings for you!" She narrows her eyes at him. 

"But... I gave you everything you desire. What more do you want?" He questions the young Alicorn. 

"Well I want my freedom." She explains.

"And I gave that to you, but as for seeing your loving daughter?" He said with a wicked expression on Sombra's face, he neared Twilights face in-between the bars "You will never see Harmonia again, because your going to be, what I always dreamed about..." He laughed at Twilight as he backed off from the cage.

Twilight eyes widen with fear as tears aligned her eyes. Fear swept through her body like a tornado.

"Let's see how you like it, when hatred surges through you..." The Chambers lights opened up, revealing Crystal's aligned at the cage, dark magic surging from each crystal. "Soon your friends will fear you, your ex-husband will fear you, and soon, your daughter will fear you, with this magic I can make you into my own kin, my own wife..." He said as he grinned. "You know you should be grateful that I'm trying to make you happy! Such a shame that all this would've gone smoothly if you didn't resist..." He cackles at Twilight.

Twilight tried her best to blast the darkened crystals, but failed as her magic backfired on her. 

Fear still swept through her. She felt like panicking, her eyes darted around the room, trying to find another way of escaping, but she was stuck, for the first time in forever she had no plan in mind.

"I want you to yell, cry in front of me, begging me to stop this from ever happening to you, because this will be the last time that you'll be seeing the light of day...My Queen..." He laughed as he illuminated the Crystal's, all of the electric current now strikes the cage, electrocuting Twilight painfully.

Twilight clenched her teeth, her head throbbing from the amount of pain she was receiving. 

Tears streamed down her face. Mixed with anguish, fear and hurt.

"Are you going to give up now Twilight Sparkle, or should I amp the pain even more..." He laughed as he turned up the currency of the electricity that's hitting the cage. 

"Come on, speak..." He looked at Twilight, his eyes locked on to the young alicorn in pain.

Her head throbs, worse than it ever has before. She couldn't speak, being shocked really took the power of her words and her own process of thinking. 

She screamed out in pain. Everything ached on her and through her. Her head bothering her the most.

"YOUR DAUGHTER WILL BE CORRUPTED YOUR FRIENDS, WILL LIVE IN OBLIVION, BECAUSE OF YOU!" He laughed as he maxed the amount of magic given to the crystals, the cage was now surging with electricity. 

"What now Twilight Sparkle, WHAT NOW!" He looked at Twilight, his teeth sharpening.

Twilight lays down, her body weak, she cried out for her friends, her eyes changing slowly like Sombra's.

"Please, STOP THIS!" Twilight pleads, but Sombra didn't listen, Twilight stood up automatically, her body changing, her fur changing and her eyes changing.

"Now, you'll feel what I feel..." Sombra laughs at Twilight as she tried to resist the change.

She gasped for air, as tears streamed down her face. “N-no….” she whimpers, trying to resist for as long as she needed to.

But, Twilight teeth beard and slowly begin to sharpen. As her head continued to pound, the emotions that she never wished to feel she actually felt: hate and fear.

"Everyone you cared and love, will succumb to your hate...and fear..." He neared the cage, as the electric current stopped hitting the cage, the cage opened slowly revealing Twilight changing.

"How does it feel, Miss Sparkle?" He looked at Twilight with a grin.Twilight walks out of the cage. Her eyes and face casting and giving a sinister smile. 

She gave a wicked grin to her master. "Much better."

"That's my girl..." He said to Twilight as he kissed her, Sombra's anger gotten bigger from the sense he felt outside of the chamber.

"Looks like we have unwanted visitors...are you ready to greet them..." He grinned at Twilight.

Twilight gave a nod at her master. 

Both of them made there way to see who their visitors where.

Sombra made his way to the upper levels of an abandoned Temple of the outskirts of the Crystal Empire.

"These "friends" of yours will soon cower in fear, your daughter will become, one of us..." He laughed as he can imagine the daughter's torment, he felt the Intruders coming nearer, but he was calm.

Twilight looks at her master, before looking onward, a sly but wicked smile spread across her lips.

The mane 5 group followed the trail that lead to a solid door, the flooring were cobblestone bricks that were leading to the temple, everyone stopped running.

"What's the hold up, Twilight needs us!" Rainbow Dash said to Starlight, her tone was filled with worry.

Starlight tried to figure out how to open the door "Hang on, give me a moment!"

Discord looked behind them seeing a horde headed their way.

"WE DON'T HAVE A MOMENT!"  Discord yells as he moved everyone aside, Discord snaps his fingers that opened the solid door, everyone went inside as Discord shut the door tightly, The creatures were pounding the solid door.

Sunset painted, catching her breath, she then looks at the group, everyone was panting from exhaustion. "How is everypony?"

 All of them replied "We're fine." 

Starlight continued forward, following the prints that led to a staircase headed downstairs, the halls were slightly illuminated by dimly lit candles that lead them to alcoves and hallways. They slowly reach the chamber where they saw a cage in the middle, revealing a pony inside. Everyone held their position as Starlight went forward.

Starlight carefully made her way slowly up to the cage. She cautiously reached out a hoof to Twilight. "T-Twilight..." her tone was nervous. 

The middle section of the cage was illuminated by a bright light, the cage opened slowly, an echo voice came out from every side.

"I'm surprised all of you made it this far, I was getting worried you all won't attend our wedding..." Sombra laughed, hidden in the shadows.

Sunset moved from her place and yelled at Sombra "WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER!?" She screamed at Sombra, her anger increased. 

"I just have her what she wanted, a loving husband, which is me!" He revealed himself in the corner, his grin widened and his eyes glowing.

"Meet the new and improved, and my lovely wife...Twilight Sparkle..." 

Twilight came out of her cage, walking towards Starlight and the group.

Their eyes widen in fear at Twilight's appearance. All of them were speechless. 

Twilight flashes a wicked grin at them, showing her sharp teeth.

"Such a shame, I thought you would be happy for us, and I thought Discord and Celestia moved on..." He chuckled at Discord and Celestia, he moves beside Twilight as Sombra flashed a wicked grin at them all.

"Sugarplum, is that you..." Discord said to Twilight, trying to get to her senses. Discord was tearing up, Harmonia went with Discord as they approached her and Sombra.

"Sugarplum!? You are truly disgusting...isn't that right my dear..." Sombra looked at Twilight. 

Twilight narrows her eyes at him. "Very." Twilight tone was full of pity sarcasm, but her devilish grin held another expression.

"Soon, Equestria will be ours to rule, Equestria will be ruled by two higher beings of magic and power! And there is NOTHING, IN THIS WORLD, That would stop it's progress!" He grinned at Starlight.

"Now, be a dear and dispose of them for me, after your done playing we'll proceed with the wedding..." He grinned at the others as Sombra backed up a little, giving Twilight center stage. He  watched Twilight as she handled the others.

Twilight looks at her former mentor, family members, her nieces and nephews, friends, her daughter and especially her ex husband, a sly smirk displays on her face. 

Twilight pauses for a moment thinking out loud. “..... but before I can sentences you all to death. How about I prepare you all a lovely meal? See I’m not that cruel, am I?” Twilight asked, before turning to leave. 

The others, even Sombra looked at her confused. “You all just stay here at the kitchen table and I’ll be right back with the food.”


***

“Since when does Twilight know how to cook/bake anything?” Sunset asked. 

“Well she’s baked and cooked a few times in the past, as far as I can remember. I remember when I was trying to one up her in cooking by having a cook-off between her sweet potato muffins and my cauliflower bites, sadly hers was better.” Spikie said, slightly grim over the memory. 

“Actually they were both great.” Fluttershy said. 

From the other side of the table, Luna felt unease. “..... something feels off…” Luna muttered quietly to herself. 

Flurry’s ears pricked upward, hearing Luna muttered to herself. She looks at her slightly confused. Everypony sat there for a moment, deep in thought.

“What do you mea-” she was about to ask. However, Pinkie Pie interrupts her. 

“..... well I’m sure whatever Twilight is planning on baking will be delicious!” Pinkie Pie said. “Besides I’m hungry!” 

“Pinkie? When are you not hungry?” Applejack questions. The girls quietly laughed, but Twilight’s voice rings through the kitchen, which made them jump. 

“I apologize if the food is taking a tad longer to prepare. Sombra is helping put the last finishing touches on the food, give or take another five minutes or so.” Twilight explains. 

“Oh it’s fine. Take your time Twi.” Rainbow Dash said.

Once the kitchen door closes, Rainbow spoke in a hushed whisper. “..... okay why the hay would Twilight just randomly invite us all in for dinner?” She asked. 

“..... something doesn’t make sense.” Muttered Starlight questioned. 

“.... what doesn’t seem to make sense?” Twilight asked, walking through into the dining room hall. 

“Discord! You know how he is about never making sense.” Rainbow Dash said, nervously laughing. 

Twilight looks at her with suspension. “...... right….” she muses, looking at her ex-husband.

“Well I just came to tell you that the food is done. Sombra and I will bring it out in just a moment.” Twilight said, smiling at them. 

10 mins later….

”Finally.” Twilight said as she watched Sombra bring out the food. 

“Are you sure you don’t need any help?” Twilight asked. 

“No thanks my dear, I’ve got this.” He said, smiling at her. 

“Now that everypony is seated, accounted for and that the food is here let’s eat!” Twilight said, passing the bowls of food around. 

Everypony looks at the bowls with suspicion. “Are you not hungry?” Twilight asked. 

They said nothing. 

“Our hooves are clean, trust me I don’t eat first without washing my hooves.” Twilight explains.

Again they said nothing. 

“Sweet Celestia! The food hasn’t been tampered with!” Twilight said, rolling her eyes. 

“Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie Pie pipes up, her voice stern. 

“What?” Twilight asked, slightly taken aback by Pinkie’s statement. 

“I said, Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie Pie repeats again her voice stern than before. 

Twilight rolls her eyes, slightly annoyed that she would believe that her friends think she was capable of something this sinister. 

“Cross my Heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye that I didn’t tamper the food, now let’s eat.” Twilight said, digging into the bowl herself. 

Everypony else followed. 

“This food looks simply divine.” Rarity said, gazing at her plate of food. 

“Indeed! Twilight you’ve really outdone yourself.” Fluttershy said, giving her a soft smile. 

“Oh it was nothing.” Twilight said, brushing off her friends comments. 

Sombra coughed from beside her. “.... but with Sombra’s help we were able to pull it off.” Twilight said, smiling. 

“My dear, it was your idea.” Sombra said. 

“Yes and I couldn’t have gotten it done without you.” Twilight said, smiling. 

“Would anyone like some punch, cider, water?” Twilight asked, sending out the three options with her magic. 

Rainbow Dash was the only one to take cider, others took an option of punch or water. 

The only sound that filled the room was the sound of forks and spoons scraping against plates. Twilight rubs her temples “okay what’s with the deadly silence?” She asked, confused.

“..... it’s just why are you being so nice to us?” Flurry asked, confused.

“It’s called treating my guest with humility and respect, my dear sweet Flurry Heart. I mean wouldn’t you’re father and mother do the same thing for dignitaries or others?” Twilight asked. 

“.... I guess you’re right.” Flurry mutters, sipping her water. 


*** 


For the next few hours the dinner was running along smoothly almost too perfect and smoothly. 

“Who wants dessert?” Twilight asked. 

“Oooo is it cupcakes? Pastries?” Confetti asked. 

Twilight lightly giggles. “Not exactly. Sombra and I made a 3 layered hypnotic cake.” Twilight said, bring the black and white cake into the center.

“A 3 layered hypno what now?” Applejack asked, confused. 

“A 3 layered hypnotic cake AJ. However, I’m a baker and I’ve never heard of a cake like that.” Pinkie Pie said, looking at Twilight. 

“It’s my speciality.” Twilight said, smiling and cutting the cake before giving them each a slice. 

Starlight looks down at her slice. “What’s with the black and white hypnotized theme?” She wonders. 

“Sombra and I just really enjoy themes for special events, now dig in.” Twilight said, levitating her fork.

The others did the same, but something felt off. 
After they took a bite all of them started to feel funny- dizzy, drowsy, or having an oncoming of a headache. 

A sinister smile crept across Twilight’s face as she put her fork down her piece that she took off the cake a few seconds ago untouched. 

“Oh dear, are you guys okay?” Twilight asked, her voice laced with concerned for her friends. 

Twilight gets up from her seat and walks over to Celestia. “Twilight what did you put in that cake exactly?” Luna asked. 

She noticed that Luna and Celestia had a headache as well as feeling dizzy. As for the others they were starting to feel the symptoms at once, maybe two symptoms or one over the other. 

Twilight walks over to her daughter, raking her daughter’s mane. “Oh nothing really Luna, just baking powder, butter, eggs, milk, flour…” Twilight said, going on about her used ingredients. 

She noticed the group was starting to get drowsy. “Oh and…. Rozerem.” Twilight said, a cunning smile at them. 

Before they knew it they were out cold. “Oh don’t worry the risk is low didn’t want to harm the children now did we?” Twilight asked, her teeth bared. 

Sombra looks at the group who were out cold. 

“And I thought the minimum amount that was dashed in the food and drinks would hit them right then and there. Good thing we had the dessert.” Twilight mused. 

“So while we have our wedding what are we going to do with them?” Sombra asked. 

“We invite them to the wedding of course.” Twilight said. 

“And why couldn’t you have done it while they were awake?” Sombra asked. 

“You know they wouldn’t have agreed to come to it or comply, especially my daughter. So let’s just say I took extra precautions.” Twilight said, giving Sombra a sinister smirk. 

“Send one of my guards to get them situated while we get ready.” Sombra said. 

“Of course.” Twilight said. 


***

6 hours later…. 

“Ugh…. my head.” Starlight mutters. 

“Where are we?” Cadence asked. 

“Everypony okay?” Fluttershy asked. 

“Why are in a church?” Applejack asked. 

“Well we certainly didn’t come here to praise our lord and savior Princess Celestia.” Confetti Pop mutters. 

“No offense.” Mutters Cotton Berry. “Excuse my sister’s rather unpleasant comment.” He said narrowing his eyes at her. 

“Your forgiven.” Celestia mutters. 

“And why can’t I move?!” Rainbow Dash asked, struggling against her will. 

“Why can’t any of us move?!” Luna asked. 

“It’s like we are being held against our will.” Rarity said. 

“I can’t even use my magic to set us free!” Flurry said. 

“Neither can I!” Crystal said, trying to ignite her horn. 

“I don’t believe none of us can.” Shining said. 

“So we are supposed to sit here like earth ponies?! Being magic-less and flightless?!” Honey Crisp asked. 

“Uh no offense Momma or Aunt Pinkie Pie.” Honey Crisp said, looking bashful at the two. 

“None taken sugarcube, but I believe Twilight done something to us.” Applejack said, her teeth slightly bared. 

“You think?!” Rainbow hissed. 

“Harmonia? You’re a draconequus can you use your magic to set us all free?” Opheliah asked. 

Harmonia who was two rows over was slowly but surely coming too. 

“Where am I? Why are we in a church?” Harmonia asked, her mind hazy. 

She tried her paw at magic, but nothing but a small raspberry spark came out. 

“Apparently we’re going to learn about our lord and savior Celestia.” Sunset said, her tone sarcastic. 

“Really?” Prism said, coming to. 

“No.” Starlight said, her tone blunt. 

“Okay is anypony going to question why is there a preacher there? Are we sure we’re not learning about Celestia?!” Meadow Bliss asked. 

“Pretty positive your not little one.” Celestia said. 

“Is anypony going to question why King Sombra has approached in a tux?” Shining asked. 

“Wait ... if everyone is here then where is Twilight?!” Discord asked. 

It then dawned on Shining Armor. “If we weren't chained down to these pews and our magic and wings weren't penalized for use in a church I swear to Celestia you would be a dead stallion by now!!!” Shining sneerers. 

Sombra gave a pout. “Awe, you know I’d hate to kill my own brother-in-law on the day of his sister’s wedding day.” Sombra said smirking at him. 

“You truly sick.” Mutters Harmonia

“Is that any way to talk to your father-in-law?” Sombra asked. 

“You are not my father.” Harmonia sneered. 

“Your not of any type of in law to any of us.” Crystal said. 

Sombra gave a glance to Crystal. “..... not yet anyways.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant. 

As if on cue, the doors open to reveal Twilight, who was all dawned in black lace wedding dress attained, her mane done in an elegant updo and on her mane was a crown similar to her old one, but this one was coal-grey-ish black and held the Element of Magic in place. 

Harmonia eyes filled with tears as she was forced to watch her mother marry the monster that corrupted her and one that she will never call her “father”. 

“Mom… no…” Harmonia whispers. She tried to get up, but was met by an electrical shock. “Ow!” Harmonia wailed. 

“Be a well behaved daughter and SIT YOUR FLANK DOWN!” Sombra sneers. 

“Um sir…” The preacher tried to speak up, but was met with Sombra’s meanching glare. 

“DO NOT SPEAK UNLESS SPOKEN TO!” He sneered. 

The preacher said nothing more. “The next pony to move from their spot won’t live to tell it!” Sombra sneered. 

The group looked onward at the destruction that was displayed before them… as much as it pained them they were forced to watch. 

The preacher continued. “Ladies and gentlecolts, species, creatures… we have gathered here today to witness the union between a King and his Queen. May we have the rings please?” 

“Sombra, Do you take Twilight as your lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?"

“I do.” Sombra said, looking at Twilight. 

"Twilight, Do you take Sombra as your lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?"

“I do.” Twilight said, smiling at her soon to be husband. 

“If anypony can show just cause why this couple cannot lawfully be joined together in matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace" The preacher announced. 

“I ob-” They all try to shout, but Sombra quickly ignited his horn, silencing the group. 

“Mhm!!!” They all huffed, they couldn’t speak, but throw glares at Sombra. 

The preacher looked astounded for a moment, not knowing what to say next. “...... Well if all is in order and no pony is willing to object then I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may now kiss the bride.” The preacher announced. 

Sombra then takes Twilight in for a passionate kiss, before looking out at the sea of ponies, who didn’t have the exact same joyous expression as them. 

“Who cares what you ponies think! We are lawfully married now and there's nothing you can do about it! However we can now begin our after-party.” Sombra said. 

“.... and that constants of?” Harmonia asked, slightly worried of what the response would be. 

“Getting rid of you two!” Twilight said, firing her magic at Celestia and Discord. 

Cadence quickly throws her defense shield around the two. As much as she disliked the way they both played Twilight, she knew they didn’t deserve this. 

“Oh don’t worry, their not my only main target. So are all of you!” Twilight sneers. 

“How about before we destroy such a beautiful church we do this in a more vast area of destruction.” Sombra suggested. 

“Very well thought out my King.” Twilight said, before kissing him once more. 


***


Starlight went in front of Discord and Harmonia, Harmonia reached out for her mom, Harmonia screamed the word "MOM! IT'S ME!" Harmonia cried as Starlight carried Harmonia.

"I don't think she cares at the moment Harmony, dear." Ophelia said, her tone laced with fear. 

"SHE'S MY MOM, MOMMY PLEASE LISTEN TO ME!" Harmonia jumped off from Starlight's back, she hugged her mom's leg tightly, Starlights eyes widened as she might get hurt.

Discord yelled and ordered Harmonia to get back "Fuzzball get back here now! She's not the mother we know!" Discord said his eyes filled with tears.

"Harmonia I need you back here now, that's not Twilight!" Starlight ordered Harmonia to come over to her, Harmonia latched on to her mother, crying and sobbing hard on her leg, Everyone watched as Harmonia hugged her mom tightly.

"Little one we need you back here now!" Celestia ordered her student, but Harmonia did not listen.

Sunset looks at Starlight "What do we do now!?" Sunset questions Starlight.

Starlight thinks for a moment. The only the only thing she could think to do was try and get Harmonia off of Twilight. She ignites her horn, wrapping Harmonia in her aura.

Harmonia held onto her mother, she cried loudly as she tried to pull Harmonia off of Twilight, Harmonia looked at her mother, her eyes filled with tears.

"I WANT MY MOTHER BACK...MOM LISTEN TO ME, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!" Harmonia demanded, she still held on to her mother tightly.

"Nothing's working darling!" Rarity said, as she tried to help Starlight pull her off.

"Be gentle with her! She's just a child, we need to reason with Twilight!" Fluttershy said, the kids watched in horror to what they saw.

"I want my sister in law back!" Cadence replied to Sombra, as she blasted a light magic on him, but Sombra faded back into the shadows, watching.

"Sugarcube, listen to our voices, it's us your friends, his not your husband!" Applejack yelled at Twilight. 

Twilight looks at them with distaste. "Yeah, right." She rolled her eyes. "And if you don't get off of my hoof. But let me put this in a way that you idiots will understand. " Twilight said, sneering at her daughter. 

Harmonia's eyes widened at her mother's words, her mind was filled with fear, she didn't let go as she still hugged her mom, trying to get to her senses.

"I want my mom back...please, listen to me mom, it's me Harmony!" She sniffled and buried her face onto her mom's hoof.

Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth in anger and dashed for Sombra, Sombra appeared beside Twilight, not minding Harmonia, He disappeared again as Rainbow Dash hits the cage, she falls down her head spinning. “Well that didn't work.” She mutters. Prism follows behind her. 

Prism shook his mom rapidly "Mom, are you okay?” The tone was rather worried for her.

“I'm fine, Prism.” Rainbow Dash mutters, rubbing her head. 

Starlight looked at Twilight, reasoning with her.

"Is this what you want Twilight, hurting everyone you made friends with, EVERYONE LOVED YOU! AND YOU LOVED THEM! I need you to resist and comeback to yourself!" She neared Twilight, her eyes filled with tears but her expression filled with Bravery, Sunset and the others followed Starlight carefully.

"I am tired of wasting my time with them dear...dispose of them..." Sombra whispered in Twilight's ear.

“Gladly.” She snears. She blasts dark magic at them. They dodge out of the way, avoiding getting hit. 

"Did anypony bring the Elements of Harmony?" Honey Crisp asks. 

"No!" Cotton Berry said. 

"That would probably be really helpful right about now!" Wails Phoenix.

Ophelia panicked and hyper ventilated "WE'RE GONNA DIE DOWN HERE!" Honey Crisp tried to calm her down as they took cover. "Nobody is dying down here! Just be careful!" The kids hid in one of the pillars.

Starlight looked at Twilight and Sombra, Discord and Celestia were right in front of them after they've dodged the attack. "Twilight, please find your heart and spare these ponies you attack, but find it in your heart that these ponies love you!" Celestia responded to Twilight, but she didn't care.

"I believe it's about time we stop this madness before things get out of hoof." Sombra said calmly as a barrier of shadow blocks their way, Harmonia was pulled from her mother from the blast, she lay unconscious on the ground, her ears ringing loudly, Discord picked up his  daughter and carried her, Harmonia cried onto Discords shoulder, he made his best to calm her down.


*** 

Harmonia and the group escaped from the chamber of the everfree forest, Discord carrying her daughter. 

Harmonia cried her ears still ringing, but her mind clouded with confusion and pain. She then looks at the one carrying her, Discord looked at her own daughter.

"Put...me down..." Harmonia commanded, her voice Stern and strong. Discord didn't listen, he just walked with the group still carrying Harmonia, Harmonia gritted her teeth and demanded one last time.

 "I SAID, PUT ME DOWN!" she yelled at her father as she bucked his face, removing herself from her father's grasp, Harmonia landed with a hard thud on the ground, tears forming in her eyes until she sobbed. Harmonia said to herself quietly "It's my fault mom left...I miss mom..." She started sobbing harder, screaming as she begged for her mother to come home "I WANT MOM BACK!" She laid down on the ground, curled up covering her face from the others, Starlight hurried up and grabbed Harmonia.


"We will get her back, I promise." Starlight said, her face held a look of determination.

"I want...M-mom back..." She looked at Starlight, her eyes filled with tears and bloodshot red, she hugged Starlight tightly, sobbing onto her fur, they stayed like that for awhile until the Harmonia looked at Celestia, her anger beginning to over take her again.

"It's your fault...that dad left us..." She gritted her teeth, looking at Celestia, filled with hatred in her tone and look.

"I'm sorry little one, I should've known this was the outcome of my misdeeds..." Celestia said, going near Starlight and Harmonia, her tone full of pity.

Starlight looks between the two, feeling the slight tension between them. 

Harmonia breathing went ragged. "You just better hope that we get her back." Harmonia eyes narrowed at the Princess, her teeth bared.

Celestia didn't reply, the tension between her and Harmonia was too big to bear for Celestia, she felt so threatened, she gritted her teeth and she looked at Harmonia, she didn't say a thing but she walked away with Discord out of the everfree leaving Harmonia and Starlight and the group to stand in confusion.

Applejack yelled at the two "HEY GET BACK HERE!" But Discord and Celestia were already gone out of sight. She turned her attention to the two on the ground, giving a pitiful look on Harmonia, Harmonia's sobbing didn't stop as she still remembered the times she spent with her mother.
> Chapter 20: Let Them Eat Cake
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Six months later...

Decorations hung throughout the Canterlot castle. Luna, Amaris, Celestia and Discord were planning on celebrating Tiberius’s 19th Birthday. 

“I can’t believe you’re nineteen Tibby.” Amaris said. 

“You’re never going to drop that old nickname huh Amaris?” Tiberius chuckles. 

“It’s not everyday your son celebrates his nineteenth birthday.” Discord said.

“Exactly.” Celestia said, smiling. 

“Is this all that is going to be here? Just us and a few of the royal guards and maids?” Tiberius asked. 

“It’s a rather small get together.” Luna chides. 

“But what about the ones who are waiting outside of the gates that can come in right?” Amaris asked, looking out the window. 

“I’d rather not risk it.” Celestia mutters. 

“Come on Mother! It's my birthday. I don’t mind having a few unknown guests here.” Tiberius said. 

“Come on Tia, let the boy have his fun just for today.” Discord said. 

Celestia sighs. “Alright. Guard open the doors.” Celestia announces. 

“Yes your highness.” The guard said, and opens the doors. 

Pools of ponies from Canterlot came through the doors.

“Now this is more like a party!” Tiberius grins. 

The cake was decorated with the design of Canterlot castle and Tiberius face on the base of it. 

“Oooo this looks delicious.” Amaris said. 

“Now are you ready to make a wish sweetie?” Celestia said. 

“Today is already perfect, but I can think of one thing I want to wish for.” Tiberius said, closing his eyes.

He was about to blow out his candles when a cold wind swept through the castle. 

“What tha-“ Tiberius said. 

“Swell party! I’m guessing my invitation got lost in the mail?” Came a familiar voice. 

The crowd split apart to reveal Twilight, however it didn’t really look like Twilight appearance wise. 

She had dark purple fur, her mane was long and flowing much like Celestia except the ends were black and shadow like, her teeth were sharp like canine teeth, her wings were razored sharp, her eyes were ruby red and glowing with purple mist coming from them and her horn was curved and had a crimson ting to it much like a familiar foe Celestia and Luna fought all those years ago. 

The crowd's eyes widened unable to process that this was truly Twilight, their once beloved Princess of Friendship was now somepony not even beyond recognizing. 

“I think for the next party I would like to have at least some input on the guest list.” Tiberius said, looking at Amaris. 

Twilight dragged a sword at her side, it screeched and caused sparks across the tile floor. Everyone downfolded their ears at the screeching sound. “If you don’t mind, I think I’ll just help me to a slice of this cake.” Twilight said, her tone nonchalant. 

“What is she doing? Why is she over here now? Is she here to apologize? Or is she here for a fight? She is probably here for a fight.” One of the guards said, putting popcorn in his mouth. 

“Shhh!” Luna said. 

“It’s-“ Celestia sighs. “Twilight? Where have you been?” 

“Helping myself you might say. It’s about time I helped myself don’t you think?” Twilight chides. 

She sliced a piece of cake off. 

“I think she wants to fight.” The guard whispered to Luna. 

“Shut it.” Luna said.

Two twin girls who looked to be around the age of 9 were running into the foyer of the castle giggling. “Happy Birthday Bubby!” One of them shouts, her voice full of giddiness. 

“Yeah happy-“ the other one stopped and looked at the atmosphere they were both in and quickly got quiet. 

Twilight looks at the girls, who were clutching onto each other in fear then down at the cake and notices Tiberius face, she looks straight at Tiberius. She gives a sarcastic laugh. “Oh ho! And it seems and it seems you have been busy! What? You decided to finally be father of the year Discord?” She asked. 

“You leave my children out of this.” Discord said. 

“Oh look who decided to start being the protective father now! Everypony please give him a round of applause.” Twilight said, her tone lacing with sarcasm. 

Nopony moves. 

“Hey you leave my Father alone.” Tiberius said. 

“Yeah meanie!” The twins shouted in unison. 

“Oh hon if you knew what kind of Father he really is you wouldn’t be calling him that.” Twilight said. 

“What do you want Twilight?” Celestia asked, her tone icy. 

“Want? Yeah we both have things the other wants isn’t that right Celestia… Which brings me to why I am here. I want you to give me the Elements.” Twilight said.

“I wouldn’t do that. The Elements have the power to wield by Twilight and her friends, but with Twilight as an alicorn she can wield them all on her own and will do Celestia knows what to them.” Discord said, standing beside Celestia. 

“Stay out of this Discord! Little miss Sunshine here can think for herself hmm?” Twilight snaps. 

“Twilight I don’t think this is a wise decision you know yourself that the Elements-“ Celestia said. 

“Oh I know! It’s hard to make decisions on your own. When the only friends you have left are ex-villains and a bunch of children who have no idea what type of pony you truly are.” Twilight said. 

“Hey, we are not ex-villains!” Luna shouts, defensive. 

“Technically you are.” Amaris said. 

“Amaris sweetie be quite your not helping.” Luna mutters. 

“Oh and it seems Luna has been busy herself as well and with a changeling no less. Who did you mess around with this time Luna?” Twilight said. 

“Listen here you-“ Luna said, but Discord zips his sister-in-laws mouth closed before she says anything worse. 

She looks at the royal family, the back at Celestia. “You give me the Elements and I’ll leave Canterlot and all of Equestria in fact in peace.” Twilight said.

Nopony said a word. “Fine. I’ll give you some time to think about it.” She throws the plate in Luna’s direction, she catches it with her aura. “Enjoy your party, Tiberius.” Twilight said, before turning around and walking away. 

Dead silence throughout the room. “Just to be clear because I think this is important I did not wish for that.” Tiberius said. 


***


“We can’t give Twilight the Elements.” Celestia said. 

“Hey I agree if we do Equestria is doomed. But on the upside, she did say she would leave Equestria in peace. So you know 50/50.”  Discord said. 

“I wonder what Twilight has been doing since she’s been gone?” Luna wonders. 

“Reading, Betrayal.” Tiberius said. 

“A bunch of reading about betrayal.” Amaris said. 

“Okay so if we can’t let Twilight have the Elements, because you know Equestria would be doomed. Then where are they?” Tiberius asked. 

“That’s the thing. They’re at the Tree of Harmony, but Celestia and I are not connected to the Elements anymore.” Luna said. 

“And with Harmonia coordination coming up I fear that it may have to be cancelled. I don’t want something to happen to her on my account. I’ll make a letter to Spike. This is for Harmonia’s own safety as well for all of Equestria. Who knows what Twilight’s plan is with the use of those Elements.” Celestia said, looking out the window as she brought the quill and parchment and began to write. 


***


Sombra and Stormy turn to look at Twilight. “Where have you been?” Sombra asked. 

“Out and about. I had to go and take care of some business.” Twilight mused. 

“What businesses?” Stormy asked. 

“You’re to stay in a child’s place, Stormy. None of this concerns you.” Twilight snaps. 

Stormy was about to say something, but prefers that staying silent might be her best option at the moment.

“... Mother? Why don’t we go down there?” Stormy asked, looking out from the Crystal Mountains only to spot a gleaming city below them. 

“That’s the Crystal Empire. And you must never go there.” Twilight said, her voice stern. 

“But…” Stormy mutters. 

“My dear, you’ll understand one day. Let’s just say for now that nopony is meant to be trusted.” Twilight said, before turning back inside the mountain.

“You’re mother knows what’s best for you, she's only trying to protect you, you know that right?” Sombra asked. 

“Yeah, but I feel like I’m a prisoner in my own home.” Stormy complains. 

“Besides why are we living in a castle anyways?” Stormy question. 

Sombra sighs. “This is the Crystal Mountains. It may not be luxurious as a castle but it will suffice for now. Stormy, you’re precious to us and we would be devastated if something were to happen to you.” He said, patting her head.  

“Well I’m dying of boredom. Does that count to make you two devioustated enough?” Stormy asked her tone blunt. 

“Nice try, but not convincing enough.” Sombra mused.

“Look, you’re mother and I will be back within 3 to 4 days. We have to meet an old friend of ours and we can’t risk taking you with us.” Sombra explains. 

“No fair! You and mother get to go on all the interesting adventures while I’m stuck here!” Stormy complains, her hooves folded across her chest. 

“We won’t be gone for long I promise. In the meantime your mother is sending over a foalsitter to watch you.” Sombra said. 

“But father, I’m 8 ½ years old. I can take care of myself.” Stormy said. 

“8 ½ or not, you’re still our precious crystal. And one day you’ll be future heir to our throne. You are a Princess after all.” Sombra said, nuzzling his daughter. 

“Now, we have to go, you’re sitter while we are gone will be very soon.” Sombra said, before leaving. 


***


“Rosetta Stone at your service, your highness, and my aren’t you a bundle of darkness and joy.” Said the foalsitter, who pinched Stormy cheeks. 

Stormy recoiled in the process. “Okay let’s get two things straight: 1.) I despise anyone touching me, unless you’re my mother or father.  And 2.) Your giddiness and overall attitude makes me want to vomit.” Stormy said, her eyes narrowed at the mare. 

Rosetta lightly giggles. “You’re a big jokester huh? How about we play a game?” She asked. 

“Can we play outside?” Stormy asked her tone hopefully. 

“Sorry, your mother and father said no.” Rosetta stated. 

Stormy pouted. “Don’t pout. We can still have tons of fun here.” She beams. 

Stormy then thought of a spell that Sombra taught her awhile back a vanquished spell. The spell lasted for at least 24 hours, but 1-2 days if done correctly. 

“.... sure let’s play a game.” Stormy said as a sinister smile crept on her lips. 

“Hide and go seek to be exact. However, you hide and I’ll seek.” Stormy said, with her horn ignited.

“Alright, see if you can-“ Rosetta said, but she didn’t get to finish her sentence. 

Stormy blasted the spell at the Earth pony, sending her to Celestia knowing where because honestly she didn’t care. 

Stormy was alone, listening to the howling cold breeze from the Crystal Mountains nip at her fur, she shivered slightly but quickly became accustomed to it. She took a step out of the cave before questioning if she should head back inside. 

Stormy shook any logical thoughts from her mind, she loved and obeyed her mother’s every command and her father’s wishes, but this is something that she felt like she needed to do. 

She soft snow, crunched beneath her hoofs. “.... now let’s see what this Crystal Empire is all about.” She said, looking out at the city, before descending into the bustling city wide streets. 


***

Sombra and Twilight were at the catacombs underneath the hills of Canterlot, an old underground study room, meant for Starswirl a decade ago. "So this is where the old fool resides, at the final push of his breath..." 

Sombra wipes the dust off of the tables that were aligned, he chuckled to himself, he then looked at Twilight who was standing next to the doorway. 

"Would you imagine the possible damages we can commit to Equestria...with you alongside me..." He said he moved towards Twilight, twisting the elements around him and her.

"We can become even stronger than any weakling..." He said, looking at her with a sultry gaze.

"Well for starters Sombra, I want to know why we're here instead of enslaving Equestria to it's hooves, I want the ponies that fear us, bow before us!" Twilight demanded her evil husband, Sombra smirked at her as he gave a look of reassurance.

"My dear, time will come to that, for now we must rally the all powerful..." Sombra said as he levitated the Elements to Twilights bag, Twilight zipped the bag closed to keep the elements safe. 

"As of now, I must visit with an old friend..." Sombra said about leaving the long underground catacombs, leaving Twilight to wait. 

"And who would this "pony" be...you better not be cheating on me now, my king..." Twilight said, teasing his evil husband.

"Not this time my love...I would never replace you, for now we take matters into our own hooves, wait here..." Sombra said leaving the catacombs, Twilight was left to wait, but she has a weird feeling in her.

Sombra makes his way down the long hallway. His hooves echoed off the cold stone floor. 

He illuminates his horn, making another passage appear, as he walks through. "It's about time you came." Came a familiar voice.

"I thought you wouldn't come to our reunion, Chrysalis..." Chrysalis was guarded by two heavily armoured Changelings, chains wrapped around them and their body buff and big.

"I also thought you wouldn't make it here, you know as they say, the early bird catches the worm...or rather eats it entirely..." Sombra laughs at his own statement, he summoned two Shadow figures behind him.

"I believe you called me here for a reason Sombra...and what would that be..." Chrysalis said, moving in between her guards, she now appears in front of Sombra, her head held high.

"Well you see, I am in need of assistance, from you of course and your lovely, Swiss cheese army......" Sombra's gaze reflected upon Chrysalis's eyes, he circled around Chrysalis, looking at the guards.

"Your army is of great use to me, and with you leading among it, I want you to be the backbone of my little "plan"..." He said with a harsh tone giving a smirk to Chrysalis.

"And what is this brilliant plan of yours anyway, Sombra." Asks Chrysalis. 

"We haven't teamed up together in eons, since we last did something like this?”  Sombra said, his tone nonchalant. "Besides I'm simply asking you a favor." He gives a sly smile to her. 

"And what may that be?" She asks, slightly skeptical.

"Imagine Equestria under our control, with my "wife" and you the three of us will show Equestria that they are not safe from us..." His tone angry and nonchalant, he circled around Chrysalis and the Guards, still looking at them with interest.

"You will make a great left hoof mare for me, you with an army and my wife with a deadly thought..." He looked at Chrysalis, a deadly glare in his eyes, he walked towards her.

"I want Equestria to bow down to us, this is my plan, to rule over the weak!" He said, his eyes glowing. 

Chrysalis held a sincere, but devious look on her face. "What's in it for me?" She asks.

 "You can finally have your revenge on Starlight Glimmer." He said, giving her a sly grin. 

Chrysalis thought for a moment, before responding. “Alright. What’s the plan?” she asked.


***



Twilight paces back and forth, her patience wearing thin. "Ugh! Where could he be? What's taking him so long!" Twilight mutters to herself.

Sombra walks in the study room, his eyes illuminated with power, he slammed the door shut, the cracks formed.

"You were waiting for me I see." Sombra said, chuckling at her. She nuzzles her brainwashed wife, giving her a deadly gaze.

"Of course! What took you so long anyways?" Asked Twilight.

"Oh some meeting with an old friend, nothing to be of concern here." Sombra said, levitating the bag filled with the elements of Harmony to him.

"I see you are curious, I know you want to know more, so ask away dear." He gave her wife a deadly smirk.

"What was this meeting about exactly?" Twilight asks, curiosity getting the best of her.

"Well, you and I are gonna rule the world you see...and without protection, we cannot achieve that, I know you want the power, revenge on those who hurt you and I know you want glory." Sombra said, going near Twilight's face, his look calm and dark.

"I just want protection, for our sake, so I called in a familiar face..." Sombra said, tying the knot of the bag where the Elements are kept.

Twilight thought for a moment. "You are correct, my King." She said she gave a kiss to Sombra. "But the next meeting you have, I'm coming with you." Twilight said.

"Of course you are, after all, I want them to see how lovely you are, how changed you have become." Sombra kisses her wife back, he smirks at her as he laid the bag down.

"Now, we must continue with our plans, we have much to do..."  Twilight follows Sombra out of the room. And they both made their way back to the Crystal Mountains.


***


3 days later… 

Twilight stretched her wings out exhausted from the 3 to 4 days of travel they did, meeting all of Sombra’s old friends had really put the word “friendship” to the test. 

“After that long meeting for what felt like ever! I am so ready to be home and curl up with just you.” Twilight said, giving Sombra a sly smirk. 

“After we get Stormy situated into bed right?” Sombra asked. 

“.... of course. Just feels like forever since we have had any alone time.” Twilight said. 

“Understandable. However, I hope Stormy doesn’t believe that we have abandoned her.” Mutters Sombra. 

“Come on, my king she is much too smart to believe in that besides she has her foalsitter to keep her company.” Twilight said. 


***


Back at the Crystal Mountains, Rosetta paces back and forth in the den. 

“..... I can’t believe she vanished! How was I a fool to even consider playing a game with her!” Rosetta mutters to herself. 

“The King and Queen will banish me for sure! Or worse!” Rosetta eyes shrunk to pin pricks. 

“Stormy! We’re home!” Called Twilight from the caves entrance. 

“Stormy?” Sombra questions. 

“Rosetta? Where’s our daughter?” Twilight asked. 

“Good question! Now let me ask one.” Rosetta said. 
 
 “Hypothetical speaking there's this queen… But she's not an alicorn… No! No, they aren’t kin to a royal bloodline... yeesh.” Rosetta explains. 

Sombra looked at Rosetta amused. “Definitely not a queen or king. And, uh... uh... their daughter, um, say... vanished.” Rosetta gave the two a grim expression. 
 
“Stormy is gone?” Twilight bellows. 

“Where did she go?!” Sombra demands. 

“I- I don’t know.” Rosetta said, stuttering. 

Twilight walks past the bickering pair and looks out at the Crystal Empire, the sun casting dawn like rays that almost turned into night over the Empire. 

“I think I have a pretty good idea.” She mutters, her teeth bared. 
> Chapter 21: Everything I Ever Wanted
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stormy made her way through the small town of the Crystal Empire, ponies silently eyeing her, but quickly moved out of her way. Some were even confused on how in the wide world of Equestria was there a sixth alicorn within Equestria. 

Stormy eyed it’s glistening exterior, the brightest one being The Crystal Empire. 

“This must be the Empire that mother and father were referring to.” Stormy thought. 

Amongst the Empire, was a small crystallized garden and within that garden held a young pink coated princess with a granite mane and tail with a light blue streaks running through it. She looked to be about the age of a young teenager- around the age of thirteen or maybe sixteen- if Stormy had to assume. 

She eyed the young princess watching from afar as she was picking crystal flowers from the garden. “Oh I’m sure Pound Cake would love these flowers! Mistmane’s work in the gardens is always so beautiful.” Flurry swoons twirling the sparkling bouquet of crystal flowers in her golden aura. 

Flurry looks up from her swooning and notices Stormy. “Oh, Hello! Sorry I didn’t see you there! How may I-” Flurry paused and gazed at Stormy. 

“Wait… are you an alicorn?!” Flurry Heart asked, her tone bewildered. 

“That I am.” Stormy said, her tone sly making her way towards Flurry. 

“But, I haven’t heard of another alicorn recently being born in moons. And I happen to be the first born alicorn in our generation.” Flurry explains.

“Well let’s just say that you have something that belongs to us.” Stormy said, she was now inches away from Flurry Heart, her horn charged. 

Flurry backtracks backing against the Empire’s wall. “N- now hold on w-we can work something out.” Flurry’s voice trembled slightly. 

“I don’t think that can be arranged, but I know one way it can be.” Stormy smirks and fires a blast at Flurry Heart, who quickly ducks with a scream. 

She drops her crystal flowers from her aura and the sound of shattering crystal hits the ground. “Who do you think you are!” Flurry Heart demands, her tone tightest. 

“The rightful owner of this beautiful Empire.” Stormy smirks, firing another blast. 

Flurry stood her ground this time, throwing up a shield around herself. 

Stormy snorts. “You think your pathetic shield will protect you? Just because you are first born all natural alicorn doesn’t make you all powerful.” Stormy said, striking at Flurry’s shield. 

“Oh is that so?” Flurry cocks back, she then lets her shield dissolve and fires a blast at Stormy. The blast sent Stormy halfway across the crystallized field of flowers, making a clear path for Flurry to take charge. 

However, just like her mother, Stormy wasn’t one to give up easily. She stood her ground, giving a pissed off look at Flurry. “You’ll pay for that!” She hissed, firing her horn. 

“You know if we were at a fancy restaurant feel free to put it on my tab!” Flurry shot back, firing a blast at Stormy. 

Stormy starts to shatter half of the crystal homes around them, the shattering sound of crystals ringing in both of their ears. “What do you think you're doing?!” Flurry hissed. 

“After I get rid of this blindingly colorful town. I will start with you and whatever family you have left with complete and total annihilation!” Stormy said, cackling. 


***

Cadence and Shining Armor enjoy a peaceful evening in the west wing of the castle- well as peaceful as it could be. 

“.... okay, I’ve had about enough of this glass shattering sound. Flurry and Crystal can’t get along to save each other's lives. They have been fighting for the past hour and a half. What can they be fighting over this time?” Shining said, getting up from his sitting position. 

“Based on how many years Crystal has been around Flurry Heart you think they would have learned to appreciate each other’s presence by now.” Cadence said. 

“They are sixteen and thirteen this bickering back and forth has got to stop.” Shining said, stomping his hoof. “I’m going to go talk to them.” 

Cadence puts a hoof to her husband’s chest. “Maybe they deserve a motherly tone to listen to. Besides, I know how to get through to them with a bit of girl talk.” Cadence said, giving a soft smile. 

Shining cocks an eyebrow. “Let’s just say that it involved Queen Chrysalis on more than one occasions.” Cadence explains. 

“.... and “girl talk” solved it?” Shining questions. 

“.... no, no it did not.” Cadence said, her voice dead pan. 

She then sighs. “Just let me go talk to them.” 

Shining nods and lets his wife take the motherly lead on hopefully this time and for good let the two sister’s see from eye to eye. 


***


Cadence makes her way down the hallway, the sound of shattering glass and blasts could only be heard from on the outside of the Empire. 

“Great! Just great! Those two are in soooo much trouble destroying Mistmane’s Crystal Gardens when I get a hold of them!” Cadence mutters, stalking her way to the gardens. 

She opens the balcony doors, eyeing the destroyed garden and exterior of other buildings. “What in Equestria is going on out here?!” Cadence asked her tone in disbelief at the destruction that surrounded her. 

“Oh! Hi mom!” Flurry Heart said, her tone frantic and full of panic as she dodged another blast from Stormy. 

“Flurry! Why does it look like Equestria War II happened here! What’s going on?” Cadence said, her tone demanding. 

“I don’t know, but- Mom! Watch out!” Flurry shout. Cadence quickly throws her shield around herself. 

“Well well well if it isn’t the Princess of Love, Princess Mia Amore Cadenza. Where’s your Prince? Every princess needs a prince, right?” Cocks Stormy. 

“Who are you! And why are you attacking my daughter?!” Cadence demands. 

Stormy decides to avoid her question. “Two rulers of this blindingly colorful town, and this is what you do with it?!” Stormy frowns. “You know if my family were to have ruled this Empire I believe things would go our way.” 

“I asked you a question.” Cadence said, her teeth bared. 

“I rather keep my identity under wraps. However Auntie Cadence is that any type of way to treat a family member?” Stormy asked, as she pouted her bottom lip. 

“W- what?” Cadence asked, slightly speechless. 

“You see while mother and father were away things got a little heated to say the least.” Stormy said, a slight smile. 

“Cadence? What’s going on?” Shining asked, before looking between the commotion. 

“Uncle Shiny!!!! It’s like a regular party now. But now the real party can begin.” Stormy seethed, charging her horn. 

“Cadence what is she talking about?” Shining asked. 

“You are of no family to us.” Cadence said, her teeth bared. 

“Oh, but I am. And I’m going to take back what belongs to my family from you all! Time for your complete and total downfall!” Stormy shouts as her horn ignites dark magic. 


***

Somewhere deep within the Everfree forest, was a cave on the center of the ground, spikes surrounding every corner of the crater that surrounds the cave in. An underground staircase was seen, two shadow figures were walking down, one red and one purple light illuminated the dimly lit spiral staircase.

"Ponies think they are safe from darkness that shrouds them, it's repulsive..." The torches were scorched with purple fire, revealing Sombra and Twilight, with a wicked smile on their faces. "Surely we can give them an incentive in case they do, drastic measures, right dear?" Sombra looks at his wife, a cold and Evil smile on his face.

Twilight thought for a moment. "If it comes to it then, that's what we will do." Twilight explains her tone nonchalant, but she flashed her husband a wicked smile.

"We destroy it, but of course, let's give them a little trial and error." He replied to her wife, giving her a smug grin. He ignited his horn burning the spikes surrounding the entrance to the cave and the two went in, Twilight illuminated her horn revealing the path way to the Tree of Harmony, it revealed a big cave chamber with the tree in the middle, covered in spiky vines.

He torched the spikes that surrounded the Tree of Harmony, and the vines that surrounded the place making the place bright. "I believe that this is where it's kept?" He broke the trees lock, revealing the gems inside, he took the element of magic and friendship with his magic and moved it from angle to angle.

"I believe this belongs to you, Miss Sparkle, would you mind if I keep it for a while..." He looked at Twilight with a dominant smile on his face.

"Who needs those Elements anyways. Why not just destroy it." Twilight sneers, her tone leaked with sarcasm.

"I like your thinking dear, but I don't want to spoil the fun yet, I want them to come to us...I want them to suffer as your daughter suffered before us..." He sneered at Twilight, putting the element of Magic and friendship onto a metal casing that has a scorched mark of Sombra's armour. 

He looked at the tree for a moment gazing upon its power and glory to Equestria, he exhaled in a satisfied tone.  "Soon Equestria, and all it's ponies will be shrouded in everlasting darkness!" He yelled as the fire inside the cave grew brighter, his eyes filled with anger and hatred.

"And nothing will stop us! Not even those pesky alicorns." Snears Twilight.

"Why of course dear, we are going to rule all over the nation of Equestria, not even those pests that oppose us, without the last element, they are defenseless against us!"

As he was done talking, he went up to Twilight, kissing her with passion. "Now, let's take care of business..." He looked at the cave as all of the vines fell to block the tree, but not all.


***


The mane 5 and the kids walked back to Twilight's Castle, followed by Shining and Cadence. "I can't believe that Twilight would turn into a monster..." Fluttershy said, her eyes filled with tears as she hugged her son tightly, Meadow Bliss nuzzled her mom, giving her a reassuring smile.

"Let's not give up now! There must be a way to revert the spell and suppress the magic in her!" Sunset said as they all ran to the castle.

They barged in, heading to the library, Starlight and Sunset were finding the book to suppress or revert dark magic back to its original state. "Which one is it, Starlight?" Sunset questioned her friend, frantic while looking for a book that suits their needs.

Starlight scanned the castle library. "Twilight has about over a million books here! It will take us forever to figure out which one is the correct one." She explains to her friends. 

"There has to be something here." Mutters Cadence, who already grabbed two books, flipping through its pages.

Starlight and Sunset found the last book, with the invention of ancient Equestrian writing, one of Starswirl's books of magic study and novels, Sunset and Starlight smiled at each other as they both yelled "WE FOUND IT!" Everyone smiled as the two placed it on the friendship table. 

Cadence opened the book, revealing dust mites flying towards them, they both coughed as they swayed the dust away, Sunset flipped the pages, revealing a specific page of dark magic. 

"Starlight look what I found!" Sunset called out to Starlight, she rushed to her friend.

Starlight scans over the page, she smiles to herself. "This is it!" She beams. 

"What does it say?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

"We need the elements of Harmony for this, if we want Twilight back and to defeat Sombra once and for all, we need the Elements of Harmony, does anypony know where it's located?” Starlight asked, but everyone shook their heads, except for one Dragon.

"I know where it is, it's in the deepest part of the Everfree forest! But it's too dangerous to go out at night!" Spike alerts them, his voice tells them it's forbidden to enter the everfree at night.

"I guess we can wait until morning to go there." Suggested Rarity. 

"For now we should get some rest." Said Fluttershy. 

"You can stay here if you would like." Offered Tempest. 

"That would be lovely, but we can't take advantage of-" Luna said, but gets cut off. 

"Please I assist." Tempest said.

"Alright, little ones, it's time for us to rest. Guards, keep the castle secure, we don't want Intruders to come in now!" Luna commanded the Royal Guards, they all saluted at the Princess of the night and they took positions around the castle. 

 Harmonia stops shortly, thinking to herself before turning around to face the others. "That's a great plan and all, but I can't just sit here and do nothing." She said, her expression stern. 

The group remained silent, except for Shining. "Nothing? Well you will be taking notes on how to be a better ruler!" Shining explains. 

"Okay, well I rule that I go after Sombra! It's the right thing to do." Harmonia said, placing a hoof on Shining chest. Her tone is rather determined.

"I don't think so! You are going to stay here! We can't risk putting you in danger, Harmony." Shining said, his tone strict. 

"I'm not staying here quarantine in my own home." Harmonia huffs. 

"Sweetie, it's for your own safety. We have guards who can handle the job." Cadence said.

"Flurry?" Harmonia looks at her cousin, hoping that she will agree with her at least just this once. 

"Sorry, Harmony, but I'm with mom... we can't risk loosing another Princess. We already lost your mom. We can't loose you too." Flurry said.   

Harmonia looked at them all, her eyes narrowed. She didn't say a word, but slams the door shut, the loud slam echoing the entire castle. 

“We did the right thing.” Shining said, gazing at the door before turning back to the others and his wife. 

"We better stay here and learn the location of the tree of Harmony, Spike knows where it is but we need guidelines!" Sunset explains. 

“Starlight if you could teach us how to use it, we can be done in no time!" Rarity said her face filled with determination, she looked at everyone as they all nodded at her.

"Then let's do this..." Starlight said looking at Sunset, they both started studying the location and how to use it, it may take time for them to master.


*** 


The children shared a room. All of them snuggled into bed.

"Goodnight." Tempest said, she gently shuts the door. 

Harmonia waited until her guard’s hoofsteps were silent. "Is anypony still awake?" She questions the darkness. 

"Me!" Announces Confetti. 

"Shh!" Hisses Ophelia.

"I overheard Miss. Shimmer, the Princesses' and Uncle Spike talking.... Something about a tree called The Tree of Harmony?" Harmonia explains. 

"What's the Tree of Harmony?" Asks Honey Crisp. 

"I'm not entirely sure...." Mutters Harmonia.

"I know what it is!" Confetti Pop beamed as she grabbed a flashlight and she turned it on, she shines her head only.

"Legend has it that the Tree of Harmony contains all of the elements of Harmony, the element of Laughter, the element of Honesty, Loyalty, Generosity, Kindness and the most important element of all!"

Harmonia cuts her off and she realises her true element, she looks at all of them. "I'm the element of Magic and Friendship...that's the element my Mom wants!" She looks at her friends, filled with determination, everyone looks at Harmonia, a plan forming in all of them.

“Are you sure she doesn't want all the Elements?” Confetti asked. 

“Who knows why they are after or even what they want with the Elements in the first place.” Mutters Harmonia. 

"So much for beauty sleep,” Ophelia sighs.  “Alright dear, what's the plan..." Ophelia asks, getting out of her bed.

"I say that we go and find the elements!" Beams Harmonia. 

"Are you crazy?" Cotton Berry asked, his expression slightly alarmed.

"At the dead of night!?" Meadow Bliss was shocked by her statement. 

“You two are a bunch of scaredy cats….”  mutters Confetti Pop. 

"But it's dangerous outside, who knows what's in the Everfree Forest!" Prism told Harmonia, his tone was filled with fear.

“Make that three scardy cats.” Mutters Confetti. 

"If it means coming back home with it and studying it's magic, I'm in!" Honey Crisp sides with her friend, Harmonia smiled at her. 

Cotton Berry and Confetti Pop smiled at each other and they both beamed. "Count us in!"

“But you just said you weren't in a second ago.” Confetti said, looking at her brother. 

“Well that was before it became an epic adventure.” Cotton Berry said, Confetti rolled her eyes. 

"Welp, count me in too I guess." Meadow Bliss casually said, siding with Harmonia.

Illusion comes in, overhearing the conversation "You need a real Colt to guide and protect, I'll go." He casually said, looking at Prism.

Prism's eyes widened "Hey! I'm coming too!" He sneered at Illusion.

Prism eyes narrowed at Illusion. "Besides, what's Mr. Perfect doing here, anyways?" He asks Harmonia, obviously annoyed by his appearance. 

"His family is actually staying with us for the time being. To make a long story short, it's a family issue." She explains to Prism.

"Aw come on now we got a rich Colt on our side!" Prism sighs, his face now down in the dumps, Illusion comes into the room.

"Well you need more than one Colt to not get you killed out there would we now Prism Dash?" Illusion looked at Prism with a smug look on his face, a playful tongue came out of Illusion's mouth and he giggled at him.

"Now that's...touché..." Prism said, following them to the window.

Illusion opens the window doors, and he lowers a blanket that's tied so they can climb down. "After you m'lady." Illusion gestures, Harmonia giggles at him as she goes down first, all of them followed leaving Prism the last one.

"I swear this is gonna be the worst night ever..." He goes down as well.


***


They make their way to the head of the forest. "Have any of you been here before?" Harmonia asks. 

"Heavens no." Mutters Ophelia. 

"I have and it's really not that spooky at night." Beams Confetti Pop. 

"Still..... I suggest we keep our horns lit, just in case. These woods can be impossible to see at night." Illusion explains.

"Sure mister know-a lot, you don't need magic to go in there, all you need is fire!" Prism grabs a rock and a stick, he tries to ignite a spark on the fire but to no avail.

Cotton Berry replied "Stop trying to show off Prism nothing's working so far." He said slightly annoyed, as he watched Prism ignite the fire.

Harmonia went to Prism, grabbing his shoulder slowly, Prism blushed so hard he can't even turn to her. "I think that's enough Prism." She said, softly at Prism, who was blushing a little. 

"A-alright..." Prism said, dropping the rock and stick, he follows the others to the forest.
 
"It's awfully dark here!" Ophelia says out loud as Harmonia, Cotton Berry, herself  and Illusion light up their horns. Both Harmonia and Illusion stayed side by side, Harmonia was a bit scared but Illusion stood beside her, Harmonia blushed madly as Illusion did the same.

"That Colt is stealing my mare!" Prism thinks to himself, angry and frustrated at the rich Colt infront of him.

"Yeah, rich Colt knows the way..." He mutters to himself, watching the two at the same time, Prism was at his boiling point.

Illusion happens to over hear Prism's snarky statement. “You guys go on ahead, Prism and I will catch up with you in a bit.” Illusion said. 

The girls, Meadow Bliss and Cotton Berry look at the two in confusion. 

“I just need to have a talk with my friend.” He said, giving a glare at Prism. 

They shrugged and went ahead leaving Prism and Illusion alone. 

“I don't see what your problem is.” Illusion said. 

Prism scoffs. “My problem?! I don't have a problem.” 

Illusion smirks. “Seems like somepony is jealous of Harmonia and I.” 

Prim gazes narrows at the young stallion. Who gave a small laugh. “Don’t worry we're just friends.” he said, his tone nonchalant. 

“Just friends?!” Prism scoffs. 


***


The two finally caught up to the group. Illusion went ahead catching up with Harmonia. Prism Dash hangs back with Meadow Bliss, Honey Crisp and Opheliah. Meadow Bliss noticed the young pegasus aggravated expression and his narrowed scowling eyes towards Illusion and Harmonia. "Are you jealous of Illusion and Harmonia!?" His asks, as a grin cascades onto his face.

"N-no..." Prism said, his tone slightly baffled. 

"You are redder than the apples on my Mama's farm during the summer time, Prism." Honey Crisp explains.

"You stop talking or you're gonna get it!" Prism threats, but gave up quickly due to the fact that he sees Harmonia and Illusion together.

"Hey I'm just kidding Sugarcube, nothing to be mad about now." Honey Crisp explains, nudging him slightly, Prism smiles a little. "I know, I'm sorry it's just that...I'll tell you once this is over ok?" Prism questions Honey Crisp, Honey Crisp nods a little smiling at Prism. Prism nods and continues trotting to the center of the everfree.

Illusion stopped, blocking Harmonia towards the ledge of the cave in. "We're here..." Illusion said, as everyone stopped trotting and looked at the deep rabbit hole.
 
"Does anyone know how to get down there?" Questions Ophelia. 

Confetti Pop falls down the long ascending staircase. "We take the stairs silly." She said, giggling. 

The others looked at each other and shrugged, following after Confetti.

Harmonia let's Illusion go first, Illusion nods and he goes behind the group, the group goes ahead of Illusion as they descend down the stairs.

Harmonia went to Prism, who was trotting to them slowly "What's wrong Prism?" Harmonia asks, lifting his chin up slowly.

"It's nothing Harmonia, I'm just checking for signs of danger, come on let's go!" He said, as he blushed but not letting Harmonia see. Harmonia smiled a little as she followed him down the stairs.

***


"This is it! The Tree of Harmony." Harmonia beams.

Ophelia looks at the environment, the vines burnt and crisped, she didn't like the vibe she feels down her fur.

"I'm, I don't like the feeling here..." Meadow Bliss said, looking at the burnt vines.

"Oh what's this!" Confetti Pop looks at the small metal casing, that has the indentations of Sombra's armour on it.

Her eyes widened, as he looked at everyone else. "GUYS!" She screamed as a black shadow whipped across her, grabbing the box from her hoofs.

They quickly turned around and their eyes widened.

"I believe you're looking for the Elements of Harmony..." A familiar voice startled everyone, it was Sombra who was standing in front of Harmonia. "I also believe that this is what you need..." Harmonia's eyes widened as the first piece of the elements was taken, Harmonia's eyes narrowed at him. "Don't be mad at me little filly, you don't want to trigger your mother now do we?" 

Sombra turns around, revealing Twilight who was grinning at her daughter, the elements were wrapped by a vine made out of spikes and thorns.

Prism and Illusion huffed as they went after Sombra. "Self righteous fools..." He said as he whipped the two across the chamber, they landed with a hard thud on the ground. Harmonia's eyes widened. 

Twilight made her way to her daughter, a smug smile on her face "Come on baby, it's time to go to sleep..." Twilight blasted a spell that made everyone go out, all of them laying on the ground snoozing. Harmonia tried to resist, looking at her mother. "Mo-mother… p-please..." She said, a tear fell from her eye.

Harmonia finally lays down, unconscious and sleeping, Twilight sees a tear dripping down from her eye. Sombra looks at her, a nonchalant expression on his face.

"Is something wrong dear..." He questions the Alicorn beside her.

"No..not at all!" Twilight grinned as she giggled a little. She looked at Sombra giving him the go signal that the two will do next.

"It's time...come dear we have much to do..." He said, as the two left the cave, trapping them inside with the vines.


***


Tempest walked around the halls of the castle, Royal guards patrolling around as well, Tempest and Shining were walking around, their horns ignited looking around in the dark.

"How are the kids?" Shining questions to the Royal guard, the Royal guard replied "All of them are accounted for!" Tempest nods, still patrolling with Shining.

"So I see your family stallion, you are very lucky marrying a princess." Tempest said, making conversation with Shining. 
 
"Yeah, hard duty being a Royal Guard, but being a dad is harder." Shining said chuckling to himself a little.

"You must really love your daughters, huh?" Tempest asked, giving him a small smile.

"I'd do anything for my nation, and my family." He looks at Tempest, a smile on his face.

The Royal Guard came rushing to Shining Armour, a frantic look on his face. "Sir, the kids are missing, they escaped through the window!" Shining's eyes widened, his breath raggedy.

"Call in the guards! Tell them to rally outside! Tempest, get the mane 5!" He ordered Tempest, as he ran out the main hall with the guards outside in line formation.

Tempest gathers the Mane 5, startling them out of their sleep. A loud slam could be heard from inside the castle, which startled Trixie awake.

Trixie was startled, she snorted as she woke up, looking everywhere but her night folds were blocking her eyesight, she looked around furiously until Starlight removed her night folds. "Hey take it easy, it's me!  Starlight!" Trixie calmed down a little.

"Starlight! Don’t scare me like that! I was trying to get a good night's sleep!" Trixie snapped at her friend for scaring her like that, but she calmed down little by little.

"What is it this time?" Trixie asked Starlight what was happening outside.

"Your son is missing..." Starlight said, her voice frantic and stressed. 

“Starlight, that’s not a time- Wait…. What did you just say?” Trixie said, rubbing sleep from her eyes. 

“Your son is missing.” Starlight repeated once again. Trixie’s eyes widened from those words, she pushed starlight away and went to the front door, screaming her son's name.

"ILLUSION! WHERE ARE YOU BABY!" Trixie yelled as she went out the door, looking everywhere.

"If I had to guess, he must have escaped with the others." Starlight explains. 

"Well where could they have gone?" Worries Trixie.

Trixie looks at Starlight, tears streaming down her eyes, she runs to Starlight as Starlight hugged her tightly. "Trixie, it's gonna be ok! They must've gone somewhere nearby and we can find them!" She pleads to Trixie.

"Are you sure..." Trixie looks at her, tears still streaming down her face. Starlight nods, as she looks at the mane 5, everyone one of them is worried, crying and frantic, but Starlight held her hopes up and spoke up.

"Guys, if we don't get ourselves together, we can never find them in time! Listen to me, they can't go anywhere far!" Starlight reassured everyone, Trixie stopped crying, wiping her tears a little.

Applejack spoke up as well, reassuring the others "She's right! We can't just sit here and cry and stress ourselves out, we act now and fast!" She looks at Shining, asking them where they were headed.

"Where are they headed Sugarcube?" Apple Jack asks Shining Armour for more details.

Shining looks at them. "I honestly have no clue where they could have gone. I mean who plans on sneaking out in the middle of night?" He questions. 

Starlight looks at Shining, with the most stricken look on her face, her eyes widened at one thought that swept through her mind.

"Harmonia!" She yelled, she looked around for any traces of her niece.

"You mean Harmonia planned it?" Tempest said, with a confused look on her face, she looked around for any traces of them around.

"Who else would disobey house rules Tempest..." Starlight said with a blunt tone, she kept on looking around for clues or traces of Harmonia.

Apple Jack came across a path way to the forest, she looked down and saw hoofprints, multiple hoofprints traced together. "Sugarcube, I think I know where they went..." She gulps as she sees multiple hoofprints leading into a forest.

"But that's where the Elements of Harmony are located!" Spike said, with a frantic tone, he followed the traces leading onto a cliffside and a hill nearing Fluttershy's house.

"So much for hospitality..." Rarity whined, but her worries got the best of her, she followed Spike.


***


"I can't believe the kids would go out and do something like this." Trixie said. 

"Well that is Harmonia for you." Starlight mutters. 

"I mean how many times have we told them to never go in the Everfree Forest alone at night?" Trixie rambles on.

"About a few years, clearly children these days just don't know when to quit snooping around." She states bluntly towards Trixie, Starlight goes to AppleJack, looking at the direction of the hoofprints that are headed to the forest.

"Well let's hope they haven't gone that far yet, why are they headed there anyway?" Cadence questions Starlight, a frantic look on the Cadence's face.

Rainbow Dash looks over them looking at the map that the kids had left behind. "Apparently they were planning on going to the Tree of Harmony." She said, squinting her eyes at the map.

"Oh for the love of...I don't even want to say it!" Starlight snapped, she started to calm herself down a little, breathing in and out heavily.

"That's right, just let it out." Fluttershy pats the back of Starlight, slowly calming the enraged mare.

"Do you need a bag Star!?" Pinkie Pie appeared beside Fluttershy, holding a paper bag, Starlight shook her head, trying to calm down.

"Well if it's all the same to you I'm going, who's with me?" AppleJack questions everyone, with a determined look on her face.

"Well you know I am, darling." Rarity said. 

"Count us in." Shining said. 

"Us too!" Rainbow Dash said. 

"Eh you just might as well say we're all in AJ." Pinkie Pie said. 

Applejack nods and the group treads forward.


***

The kids awakened from their painful slumber, their heads still throbbing and pounding from the spell Twilight blasted, Harmonia looks around looking for her friends.

"Honey, Prism...anypony there?" Harmonia called out as she stood up slowly, dusting off the pebbles from her shoulder, she walked slowly towards the exit of the cave, but to be blocked by vines. 

"Is anypony there!? Somebody answer me!" She called out again, feeling scared and isolated from her friends, Ophelia replied. "I'm here darling...where are you, it's dark in here..." She lit her horn, as she navigated her way in the darkness.

"Why is it so dark here?!" shouts Prism, trying to navigate through the darkness.

Confetti Pop looked around scared of what lurks in the dark, Cotton Berry lit his horn to realize that he bumped into a vine and Confetti Pop who was covered in them. They both screamed, letting everyone know their location.

"Well that's the two..." Meadow Bliss sighed as he walked towards the source of the sound, Harmonia ignited her horn letting everyone know her location.

"Thank Heavens your alright Harmonia!" Ophelia hugged Harmonia, worried her best friend, Honey Crisp spoke up, smirking.

"Well glad to see you still on four paws." She said, nudging Harmonia, Harmonia giggled.

"Now that we are all together again, how do we get out of here? Our entrance out of this cave is blocked." Illusion explains. 

"Does anypony happen to remember what exactly happened?" Questions Cotton. 

Everyone tried to recall the events that happened, but none came to them. 

"I.... I don't remember...." Mutters Harmonia.

"I reckon we are here in a bad way..." Honey Crisp looks around, seeing vines that are still crawling to the entrance of the cave, blocking their path.

"This feels like detention again..." Confetti Pop brings up the topic, everyone giggled.

"Well apparently a bigger detention if you ask me..." Prism said, amazed yet scared of the sight in front of him, he saw a black figure twitching, whispering words.

"Umm.... Y-you guys what's that?!" Illusion said. 

Everypony turned their heads and their eyes widened. 

"Where's our Mom's when you need them?" Honey Crisp whales.

The shadow figure looked at them snarling as it neared them, the figure spoke in a soft tone "You should've not come here..." 

A recognizable evil tone was heard from the shadow, as it's eyes glowed red from anger.

Everyone was backing up slowly to the entrance, they bumped on to the vines blocking their way out, everypony tried to pull the vines out.

"Keep pulling, we need to get out of here!" Prism said, pulling as hard as he can to open up a path way out of the cave.

"Easy for you to say, we're not as strong as you!" Ophelia replied, clawing the vines to try and get away from the monster.

"Uh guys, it's getting closer...." Warns Confetti Pop. 

"Can't you see we are trying!" Said Harmonia, her voice laced with fear.

"Everypony, pull!" Prism yelled, pulling the vines as hard as they could, the vines started ripping up slowly, but that didn't stop the monster headed for them, a beam of light was shown when Honey Crisp ripped open a portion, hitting the monster with the sun's beam.

"Hey, Honey keep doing that again!" Prism said, going to Honey Crisp and helping her rip the portion off, the Monster repelled a little.

Illusion looks at Harmonia. "You can do spells, right." He asks. 

"Y.. yeah, but I don't see how a silly spell will help us at a moment like this." Harmonia said. 

"No.... No spell, just shoot a beam of light at it! Maybe it will vanish. Want to help me?" Illusion asks, giving her a half grin. 

Harmonia nods.

The monster roared at them, as it ran towards them with brute Force and great speed, the eyes were glowing blood red. "Meet your fate, here and now…” He said snarling at the kids, Harmonia and Illusion blasted beams of light at the monster, repelling it a little from them.

"Self righteous fools..." The monster said covering itself, the shriek from it was intense and painful.

"Whatever you are doing, keep doing what you're doing, give us some time!" Prism yelled, helping Honey Crisp rip a portion for them to escape.

Illusion and Harmonia both nod. They kept blasting light at the creature. 

"You know you're pretty good at this." Illusion said. 

"This is not a time to flirt." Harmonia said, blasting another beam of light at it.

"But you are very stunning dear, your aim is precise!" Illusion said, repelling the monster as it neared them again.

Meadow Bliss and the twins pushed the other section of the vines that were nearly removed. "You better help us here!" Meadow Bliss yelled at the two ripping the other vines.

The five started bashing down the weak section of the vine, making a path out of here. "Everypony, PUSH!" Prism yelled, as they bashed down the vines, revealing sun rays coming in the cave.

The monster looked at the sun and to his body, his body was fading away little by little.

Harmonia blushed a little, but then quickly took notice at the shadow's slowly diminished body. 

"Look! I think if we do just a few more blasts it will be gone for good!" Harmonia said. 

She takes another aim at the shadow, it's body half dissolving. 

"You can never stop, what's headed for you...little ones..." The shadow smeared, looking at them with hatred filled in its eyes.

"You should do the honors..." Illusion said, looking at the monster's eyes.

"Excuse me, but we are like preteens." Confetti Pop sass.

"Now is not a time for jokes, darling." Ophelia mutters. 


"One day, the heart of Equestria will burn in everlasting darkness, and I know you'll see it in your mother, Harmonia Nyx Sparkle..." The shadow grinned at Harmonia, giggling a little as it's face was fading, he started burning a little as he looked into her eyes.

It vanished into thin air. 

The group walks over to Harmonia and Illusion. 

"What does it mean by that?" Meadow Bliss questions. 

Harmonia shook her head. "I'm not entirely sure, but whatever it means, I'm pretty sure this isn't the last we see of them." She said, looking at where the shadow once stood. 

Sounds of hooves beating against the galloping were heard, a sound of frantic parents were nearby the cave, calling out for their daughters and son's.

"Meadow Bliss! Where are you?" Fluttershy can be heard, crying while running down the spiral steps of the cave, the mane 5 and the others followed Fluttershy down below.

"I'm right here mom!" Meadow Bliss shouted.

"What do you guys think you are doing out here?!" Tempest questioning, mostly looking at Harmonia.

The parents hugged their sons and daughters, Harmonia was now confronted by Tempest and Starlight, their tone worried yet angry. 

"You should not have ran off like that! What made you go out in the middle of the night Harmonia?” Starlight hugged her niece, her tone was filled with worry.

Tempest eyes narrowed at Harmonia, listening for an answer.

Harmonia looks slightly worried. She didn't know what to say exactly. 

"We are waiting for an answer." Tempest said, her tone unamused and blunt.

"Well, you see I...I..." She looks at Tempest, her tone was filled with fear and worry. 

"I think what she's trying to say is..." Illusion looks at Harmonia, his smile reassuring. 

"It was my idea, Ms. Tempest for bringing all of us out here." Illusion took the blame for her, his tone calm and soft.

Starlight’s eyes widened, when she looked at Prism, anger started rising in her slowly.
"And you go out there behind your mother's back!?" Trixie walked up to Illusion, her tone frantic and worried.

Illusions eyes widen. "I was only trying to help them, mother." Illusion explains.

"You could've got killed out here!" Trixie hugged him tightly, Illusion hugged her mother calming her down little by little.

"You should be ashamed of yourself, you put a lot of lives out here just for your schemes!" Tempest said, as she snapped in front of Harmonia and Illusion.

"Aunt Tempest it's not his fault! It was me, I asked them if they wanted to go to the Tree of Harmony..." Harmonia finally spoke up, Starlight moved back slowly.

"Harmonia, you are in big trouble, miss..." Starlight scolded Harmonia.

"Don't think y'all four are off the hook either." Said Applejack. Looking at the remaining group. 

"She's right." Rarity said. 

Rainbow Dash, walks up and hugs her son, before slapping him upside the head. "Ow! What was that for?!" Prism wails. 

"That was for doing something stupid." Rainbow Dash said. She then embraced her son in a loving hug.

"You two are so in trouble! Come here my little cupcakes!" Pinkie pie hugged her son and daughter, she sobbed and buried her face in her little ones fur.

"Ophelia dear when we get home you and I are gonna have a very long discussion..." Ophelia looked at her mother with her eyes rolled, Rarity and Ophelia went ahead.

The Mane 5 looked at the Tree of Harmony, they noticed something was off. "Wait, you guys..." Rainbow Dash calls after the girls. 

"What is it Dash?" Asked Applejack. 

"Where is the Element of Magic?" She asks. 

"It's right there Dashie." Pinkie said, pointing to the spot, but when she looked, her ears folded back. "Oh..."

Starlight looked at the empty slots of the Tree of Harmony, her eyes widened. "Something wrong, where are the elements of Harmony!? That was the key to defeating Sombra!" 

“Actually ... where's the tree in general?!” Applejack asked. 

Rarity ran up looking at the destroyed tree, she fainted beside Starlight but Starlight grabbed her as quickly as she could. 

"Now we're never gonna beat him..." Rarity whined, Rainbow Dash looked at the empty slots, she wasn't surprised.

 "Was Sombra here when you guys entered? And who was Sombra with?" Tempest asked them, her tone still turning soft.

The kids tried to remember, but their thoughts were fuzzy. "I.... I don't remember." Harmonia said, trying her best to put the pieces of her memories from what she could remember back together, but she couldn't recall a single thought.

"Twilight must be with Sombra, but they were here last night..." Starlight looked at Tempest, unsure of what's coming next.

Tempest looked at the mark with ashes and shadow marks near Harmonia, she inspected it. "Did you encounter anyone besides Sombra..." She looked at Harmonia, questioning her.

Harmonia eyebrows furrowed together trying her best to think. 

"The memory is fuzzy..... It's like whoever didn't want us to know that they were with him." Harmonia said. 

"Ooo, I remember! It was Aunt Twilight." Confetti Pop said. 

"How would you assume it's my mom?" Questions Harmonia, slightly confused. 

"Duh! Because she's evil." Said Confetti Pop.

Harmonia thought for a moment, remembering really hard, her eyes widened as she realized it was Sombra and Twilight, who knocked them out with a spell.

"It was my mom, she's the one who knocked us out...and Sombra got the elements of Harmony!" Harmonia told Tempest, Tempest nodded as she stood up from her inspection. "Any Idea where they went from here?" Tempest asked Confetti Pop and Harmonia.

"Well I remember them heading out of this cave, then...they trapped us in here...and a black shadow pony just appeared..." Prism said, scratching his aching head.

"Great! So Equestria is doomed!" Said Trixie, her tone worried. "Wait... When did Twilight turn evil? I thought she was some goodie-two-shoes princess?" Trixie said, slightly confused. 

Harmonia gave Trixie a deadly glare, Starlight stopped Harmonia before she could even walk towards her. "That's enough sweetie, we'll find your mother..." She said to Harmonia, her tone reassuring.

"Well technically she's not since Sombra did something to her!" Cotton Berry beamed, smiling after his sentence.

"Now is not the time to be proud of our statements dear..." Ophelia said, making her way to Harmonia, she stood beside her.

Tempest looked at the burnt marks and the shadow marks, her eyes widened "Did you fight somepony here?"

"Well we fought a big scary shadowy monster." Honey Crisp explains.

"Sombra's anger makes more of "these" creatures we see, and I think this is what made Twilight, not herself anymore." Sunset said, looking at the book for more details.

"If that's the case, we better head back before more come for us!" Spike said, opening a path way back.

"Great idea, let’s head home and see what we're up against." Starlight said, rubbing Harmonia's mane.


***


“I can’t believe she escaped to the Crystal Empire after I instinctively told her not too.” Twilight growls stalking her way towards the Empire with Sombra in tow. 

“My Queen, she does have your curiosity genetics.” Sombra said, lightly chuckling.

“And she has your rebellious attitude.” Twilight shot back.

Sombra gave a soft growl at Twilight.

 “Oh hush you know enjoy our banter.” Twilight winks, as she ignites her horn lighting a way for the two to see for night as already befallen on the Empire.

They come across a frozen lake. “Why did she have to venture out here in the dead of winter?!” Twilight grumbled. 

Sombra, who was gliding gracefully on thin ice, smirks at his wife. “What’s the matter my Queen? Don’t know how to have fun?” He questions.

“More like I don’t know how to skate.” Twilight states, eyeing the solid layer of eyes. 

“You know the hunt for our daughter can be put on pause. For now you are going to have some romantic alone time with your King.” Sombra said. 

“My King-” Twilight said. 

“And that’s an order.” Sombra said.

“Now come I won’t bite.” He said, giving Twilight a seductive smirk. 

Twilight rolls her eyes as she takes Sombra’s hoof. Her hooves were starting to become like two left hooves, she collided into Sombra. 

“Don’t worry I’ve got you.” He said, holding onto her. 

The pair glides gracefully, on the ice, the soft winds blowing in both of their manes. 

“You know I normally don’t tell other ponies this, but you look breathtaking under the moonlight.” Sombra said. 

“Are you trying to make tonight passionate? Because as you can see we’re not in our rooms.” Twilight states. 

“Contrary, but it looks like we will be soon.” Sombra said, eyeing smoke from afar. 

Twilight looks slightly confused for a moment. “What are you-” She asked, she turned her attention to the smoke and where it was coming from. 

The ice romancing scenery lasted for about twenty minutes. 

“I think this is enough romanizing for the night. We need to focus back on the task at hoof.” Twilight said, her tone demanding. 

“Oh my dear the night has just begun.” Sombra said, his tone low. 

The pair get off the ice and focus back on their task. 


***

The Empire, the city of smoke, rubble, burning hair and flesh. 

The city looked like it has been to hell and back again more than twice. The once beautiful crystallized building was now shattered glasses, scorched and grazed with laser marks. Bits were slowly chipping off from some of the buildings and homes. 

This was not the Crystal Empire, this looked like the work of Sombra himself, however he was nowhere to be found nor seen. Instead it was the work of a small alicorn with powerful magic that could wipe out an entire nation with one zap- too overpowered? Well let’s just say when you get what you want, you tend to go the extra mile to get it no matter who’s in your way or who you hope to destroy. Rather it be The Empire itself or a family, you would stop at nothing to reach the top. 

Stormy stood there, breathing heavily in a creator that was done by the work of two alicorns. She looks down at Flurry Heart, the Princess all scratched up physically and mentally drained of her magic. She tried to stand up, but her vision was blurry, from what she could see her parents were unconscious as well and covered in rubble. 

“Mom…!” Flurry cried out, but her voice was very weak. She couldn’t dare look at Stormy instead when she turned to meet the alicorn she was met with another pair of familiar hooves in silver hoofwear. 

Flurry gasped. “King Sombra.” She struggled against her will as he pinned down by her wings. 

Sombra looks down on smuggling at Flurry Heart, watching as she struggled to be set free. “Well well well who do we have here?” He said, as he puts a hoof to Flurry’s face. 

He examines her facial features. She looked almost like an exact replica of her mother, Cadence- but she was far more beautiful. “If it isn’t Princess Flurry Heart.” Sombra said, showing his fangs at her. 

Twilight eyes the destruction before her and watched Sombra for a moment before making her way towards Stormy. 

Stormy noticed that her strides and walk was gracefully and full of confidence.

"Well, well, well, our little girl's all grown up..." Twilight soothes, however her tone was vial and menacing. 

Stormy looks at her mother, half nervous and half triumphant, Stormy looks at Flurry who's still struggling, reaching out for her parents crying. 

Stormy kinda looked soft at this point, but she kept her cool, Twilight dejected the emotion by saying. 

"You aren't soft for a small alicorn now are you?” She asked.

"Not at all, I just feel victorious.." Stormy said, her tone shakey, still tired from the fight. 

"My dear, feel proud for our daughter, she has done enough damage to this little empire..." Sombra said as he levitates Flurry, who's still sobbing while looking at her parents. 

"Congratulations dearest Stormy, you have done what we couldn't, well we could have if it weren't for your-" Twilight was cut off, Sombra looked ticked. 

"If it weren't for me and my plans? Well she did it anyway did she? It calls for a celebration, as for you and your parents..." Sombra looked at Flurry, who is very tired, still trying to struggle.


***


A few hours later, Cadence wakes up in a cell, surrounded by moss infested cobblestone, she tries to clear her vision and ignite her horn, as she ignited her horn she see's bars in front of her, on the other side of the dimly lit hallway she sees Flurry and Shining, chained to the wall, Cadence shouts:

"Shining! Flurry!" Tears streaming down her face, the iron bars were radiating with black magic, so Cadence rammed the iron bars, in return Cadence gets electrocuted and blasted to the wall, she looks up in pain, seeing Sombra looking at her from the other side. 

"You are certainly strong, for a weak imbecile, my daughter did all the work that I couldn't finish..."
Sombra said, going through the iron bars, he turns into his pony form, Cadence pressed herself against the wall, fear getting the best of her. 

"And your cowardice actions couldn't do it before!? What kind of Stallion are you? Huh!" Cadence shouted, her teeth bared and her stare menacing.

"The kind of Stallion who gets things done by the book..." Sombra said, his voice commanding and stern as he summoned shadow tendrils and the tendrils wrapped itself around Cadence, slowly choking her. 

"I am more than capable of ending it, but I will make you suffer slowly..." He said, looking at Cadence in the eyes. 

She started sobbing, looking at Flurry and Shining, being grabbed by the tendrils as well, the three prisoners were being brought down by Sombra, as the two unconscious ones were wrapped completely, while Cadence stopped struggling sobbing quietly, they entered the atrium, a big open area of the castle they were in, the three were thrown to the middle, being looked down upon by Twilight and Stormy, Sombra laughed as he lit the entire Atrium, seeing a big crystal on top of them, giving out the brightest of light.

“Our plan is all starting to come together perfectly father.” Stormy said. 

“You have no idea how long I have waited to reclaim my throne. And it’s all thanks  to you, my dearest.” Sombra said. 


***

“Hello dear.” Sombra said, his tone relaxed while he was sitting on the Empire’s throne. 

“Hel-lo...“ Crystal said, but stopped short as soon as she realized who she was speaking to. 

“You’re not my father.” Crystal said, her tone going defensive. 

Sombra gave her a sly smirk. 

“What did you do to my family?! Who do you think you are?” Crystal shouts. 

“It’s a pity how uneducated you are about his origins my dear.” Twilight said, from behind. 

Crystal face paled a bit. “A-Aunt Twilight....” She said, her voice slightly trembling. 

“My father is the rightful ruler of this Empire not you!” Taunts another voice. 

Crystal looks at the third person who said that. “Are you an?” 

“Yes... an alicorn we’ve been over this a million times!” Stormy groans. 

“But if I were you I would find my family before it’s too late.” Stormy said, a sly smirk appeared on her lips.

“What did you do to them?” Crystal asked, herr teeth bared. 

“Oh look the ice queen actually does have a heart.” Twilight said, her tone leaking sarcasm. 

Crystal rolled her eyes about to reply with a smart remark, but refrained from doing so. 

“I don’t have time to sit here and argue I have to find my family.” Crystal thought.

Stormy was about to take after her, but Sombra put her daughter at ease.

 “Relax, she’s no threat besides she’s just a normal unicorn. The magic that is bonded on those cell walls are consumed with dark magic there is no way she will break it. So let her go and find her precious family. She's not even a threat.” Sombra said. 


***


Several hours later, Crystal has been roaming around the Crystal empire. She sighted rubble nearby, and the faint smell of smoke, she ran to check it out, she gasped in shock as she saw half of the Town situated in the crystal empire was destroyed, with laser grazed marks and craters, paramedic ponies helping the injured royal Guards, Tempest was on the scene, investigating the incident and beside her were Royal Guards. 

"What happened here..." Crystal said to herself, her voice shaky, she looked around, the destruction was near the castle, she looked around, this time she was frantic. 

"I gotta find them!" Crystal said to herself, as she ran from the scene, a lot of ponies were scared, looking at the burnt buildings around them, more paramedic ponies entered the scene, helping the injured.

As Crystal was swimming through the crowd, she bumped into a blue unicorn, it was Trixie who was also shocked by the entire thing. 

"Crystal!?" Trixie said in shock, as she hugs Crystal tightly, she rubbed her mane. 

"Thanks Celestia you're alright!” She said, as she looked around, still hugging Crystal. 

"Yeah, yeah worrying aside, have you seen my family!?" Crystal said, looking around for signs of Flurry, Shining or Cadence 

"No, not in the slightest..." Trixie's tone sounded disgusted and sarcastic, she shook her head and looked at Crystal, smirking awkwardly.

"Yeah, right... Anyways, can you help me find them? Please, they might be in danger right now!" Crystal pleaded, Trixie was unsure of what to do, she still had to go back to her own "duties" as a magician, she thought long and hard. 

"Alright, where was the last time you saw them?" Trixie asked, as she looks around for Crystal's parents

"About that... King Sombra visited me in the throne room earlier, and..." She said, slightly nervous of Trixie's reaction. 

"KING SOMBRA!?" she yelled, and everypony looked at Trixie, Trixie gave an awkward laugh and ran with Crystal to a nearby alley, then Trixie continued. 

"King Sombra, was in your home!?" Trixie asked, her tone laced with nervousness.

"No… he was in the kitchen helping himself to some food… Yes he was in my home! And they did something to them! That's why I need your help! We need to talk to Starlight!" Crystal said, eager to leave the alley way, but Trixie stopped her. 

"We need to talk to Tempest first, I don't know where Starlight is at this time, but maybe Tempest knows! Come on, let's go!" Trixie explains. 

Trixie and Crystal exited the alley way in pursuit of Tempest in the "battlefield" area.

The two walked out onto the scene, it being a wreckage of a sight. 

“Tempest!” Crystal called out. 

Tempest turned her attention from the sight and her eyes widened at Crystal and Trixie. 

“Crystal? Trixie? What are you two doing out here?” Tempest asked. 

“I’m looking for my family. Have you seen them?” Crystal asked. 

“I’m sorry not a trace of either rulers or the Princess, I mean besides you.” Tempest said. 

Crystal ears down folded. “They have to be here. Do you think you can help? Or maybe you’ve seen Starlight.” 

“I’m sorry, your highness, but I can’t leave these injured guards unattended. As for Starlight she’s back at your Aunt Twilight’s Castle.” Tempest explains. 

“But she’s attending to Harmonia’s needs at the moment.” Trixie said. 

“But what about my needs? What about my family?” Crystal asked. 

“.... Harmonia is emotionally unstable at the moment. I’m sorry, your highness.” Tempest said, before turning her attention to the scene before her. 

Crystal huffs. “Trixie, can you help Crystal find her family? I’m sure they’re somewhere in the Empire.” Tempest explains. 

“Of course I will. Come on Crystal, I'll help you.” Trixie said, offering her assistance to the young Princess.


*** 


The duo slipped into a back alleyway before entering the Empire. “There is a secret passageway that Flurry used to always hide when she wanted to avoid doing her royal duties, also we have many passageways here at the Empire. Unlike Canterlot these are more well-hidden to the naked eye.” Crystal explains. 

“What’s under here exactly?” Trixie wonders. 

“Besides our secret tunnels we built as fillies, dungeons and rats then nothing much.” Crystal said, being to go in. 

“R-rats?!” Trixie shreaks. 

“Ugh! Come on.” Crystal mumbles. 


***


The dripping and leaking of an old pipe echoes throughout the passageway.

 “I haven’t been down here in years.” Crystal mumbles.

“How did you two not get lost down here?” Trixie asked. 

“After many years of exploring it, we have this passageway remembered pretty thoroughly.” Crystal explains, going in deeper.

“Ick!” Trixie gags, trying to avoid a rat that was scurrying by, who in turn hissed at Trixie. 

Trixie hurries after Crystal. “What makes you so sure your parents and Flurry are down here?” Trixie asked. 

“I just have this gut feeling you know?” Crystal said. 

A faint sizzling and cackling like sound, like the sound of electricity could be heard throughout the passageway. 

“Do you hear that?” Crystal ears pricked up at the sound. 

“It’s coming from down that way.” Trixie said, pointing a hoof to a roundabout corner which must lead to the rest if not the other side of the passageway. 

The pair round the corner only to be met with shadow creatures who take the shape of their counterpart except in shadow form. 

“Well did you girls remember these being down here?!” Trixie asked. 

“No!” Crystal said, charging her horn. 

“What are those things exactly?” Trixie wonders, firing her horn at them. 

“Shadow clones. These must be the work of Sombra and my aunt. Now less talking and more firing.” Crystal said, firing her horn at them. 

Crystal and Trixie fire their horns at their shadow clones, after around the fifth or sixth attack the shadows dispersed. 

“Come on we have to find them.” Crystal said, heading toward. 

“Let us hope that will be the last time we see those.” Trixie said. 

“Yeah I don’t think so.” Crystal mumbles. 


***


“Mother!” Crystal wails, tears filled her eyes. She couldn’t bear seeing her mother in a gruesome state like this. 

“C-Crystal! How were you? Nevermind that. You need to go get help!” Cadence warned, she was still wrapped in the tendrils that Sombra created. 

“But where’s Flurry Heart and father?” Crystal wonders. 

“We are right behind you sis.” Flurry Heart calls out, she sounded drained and weak. 

Crystal tried to get close to the bars, but Shining warns her to stay back in fear that she would get electrocuted. 

“Stay back honey, these bars are contaminated with dark magic. Now listen to me very carefully go find Sunburst and warn him about the situation at hoof, let him know that you’re Aunt Twilight and King Sombra have taken over the Empire and tell him to warn Celestia and for her to send out a letter to anyone and everyone who needs it. Do you have somepony who can help?” Shining asked. 

“Trixie.” Crystal said. 

Shining, Flurry and Cadence eyes shrunk to the size of dimes as if their expressions read: We’re screwed. 

Cadence was the first to come out of shock. “Trixie makes sure you go with my daughter to warn Sunburst about the situation.” 

“Can do your majesties.” Trixie said, bowing before taking Crystal with her. 
> Chapter 22: What Are "Friends" For?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Meanwhile… 

Harmonia groaned, obviously bored. “I’m fourteen years old, and I can’t believe Aunt Starlight grounded me for an entire five weeks!” She complains, she lays back on her bed. “Just because I sneaked out to try and find help…. Or well help of some sorts.” Harmonia mutters the last bit to herself. 

Tempest came in to check on her every once and awhile, due to the current events that happened, but Harmonia kept saying she was fine when clearly she wasn’t. She’s lost her dad, when she was only five and now nine years later, her mother has yet to return to her. 

Where does that leave Harmonia you may ask? Pinned up in her bedroom, with the only visitors where her Aunt Starlight and Tempest. It does get pretty lonely in the Castle of Friendship, but Harmonia has gotten used to it by now. 

However, She loaned to have just that one special moment together again, with her family as a whole. For the last 6 ½ years, she kept blaming herself that it was her fault for Discord’s leaving when in all honesty Flurry Heart has been right all along, it wasn’t her fault… It was Celestia’s fault. 

Harmonia sighs, she looks around her room, clearly annoyed with how messy her room has become. Even if she did look like her dad and had his chaotic powers, she also could not stand a messy room like her mother with her organization skills. 

“My mom will come around, she’ll be back I’m sure of it!” However, she’s been believing in this saying ever since Twilight has been captured and now corrupted. 

Harmonia got off her bed, not needing to have her mood worsen anymore than it already was. She makes up her bed, with a snap of paw. Harmonia then moves over to her bookshelf organizing all of her old fillyhood books, from when she was a child, even if the books were old and slightly worn out from all of the reading and re-reading her and Twilight did, she still found a sentimental meaning to them. 

“What I would give for you to even be here right now, mom.” Harmonia mutters, as she moves a few of her books around.

She lays one of her books down, sighing to herself. 

Her coordination to be crowned was next week, and what she would give some advice about being a good ruler would be very helpful right about now. 

Harmonia sighs, as she calmly went back to rearranging her bookshelf. She picks up a book, but before she had a chance to put it in its correct slot.

 Something from that book fell to the floor, Harmonia looked slightly confused, as she picked up the mediocre sized snapshot. She picked the picture up, turning it right side up, it was a picture of her when she was younger, she had her arms crossed as if she was mad at something, but she couldn’t recall why. 

She flips the picture around and notices something was scribbled in Discord’s handwriting. 

“Uh? What’s this?” She asks herself. 

In Discord’s claw writing it said these exact words:  “No matter what happens or what rift comes between us, just know I will always love you.” 

Harmonia slowly puts down the picture, blinking back tears. Starlight, who was standing idly by Harmonia’s doorway, gave a soft smile.

 “That was on the day before your mother and father’s wedding.” Starlight said, her tone soft.  

Harmonia blinks back her tears, she then turns to face her Aunt Starlight. “Wh-what?” Harmonia asks, slightly confused. 

“Discord wrote this on the night before your mother and him got married. He wanted to make a promise to you that whatever he does wrong in his life, to know that it was out of protection for you and from the well-being of his heart.” 

“So, you're saying that marrying Celestia was his reason for protecting me?” Harmonia questions, her tone slightly icy.

“No, I’m saying that whatever he did… either good or bad, that you should forgive him. Holding a grudge isn’t healthy for you, believe me I should know.” Starlight mutters. 

Harmonia looks at her aunt, slightly confused. “Let’s just say that I ruled a foreign village full of ponies who lived there giving up their special talents.” She said. 

“So you turned into a dictator?” Harmonia asks. 

“Basically, but your mother is the one who saved me with friendship and to seeing the light again.” Starlight sighed. “What I’m trying to say is. Don’t give into your hate and bitterness toward your father-” 

“But, he’s the reason why mom is gone in the first place.” Harmonia snaps, her tone slightly bitter. 

“And I’ve told you time and time again that we will get her back.” Starlight said. 

“How’s it going for you? It’s been nine years and she is still gone!” Harmonia teeth bared slightly. 

“I know you are only speaking out of hurt.” Starlight explains. 

Harmonia sighs. “No, you're right.” She mutters. “I just wish our family was together again like in the old times.” She puts the picture back in her book, and places it back on the shelf. 

“And it will be.” Starlight mutters, she gives Harmonia a hug. 



***


“Besides, I don’t exactly have many friends here. So wanna be friends? I mean it’s not like you have a choice.” Stormy said. 

Mystic never had a friend before, aside from Crystal and Jewel of course. 

“Um sure? What’s your name?” Mystic asked, even though she already knows of the mare mentioned by others, she didn’t know her name. 

“It’s Stormy. Stormy Sparkle.” Stormy said, offering her hoof out for Mystic to shake. 

“Mystic. Mystic Blue.” Mystic said, shaking her hoof and giving her a soft smile. 

“How about you come in? You could meet my mother and father.” Stormy said, getting up and making her way towards the Empire. 

“D-Do you really think that's necessary?” Mystic asked, her tone slightly shaking. 

“Just because they are King and Queen of the Empire doesn’t mean they are brash or harsh with getting to know my new friends.” Stormy said. 

Mystic nodded as she followed Stormy behind and into the Empire. “Okay if you say so.” Mystic said. 


***


“Mother guess what! I made a new friend!” Stormy said, her tone overly excited. 

“That’s great news right dear?” Sombra said, her elbows Twilight in the side who was still looking out the window. 

“Yes, great.” Twilight said, her tone bitter. 

“What seems to be her problem?” Stormy asked. 

“She’s just furious that her prey got away from her. She’ll be fine within an hour or so… I hope.” Sombra mutters the last bit to himself. 

Twilight scoffs. “More like pissed, but they were cowards to leave that fight early.” Twilight said, still looking out her window.

“.... okay? Well if you need me I’ll be in my room.” Stormy said, walking away.  

Mystic who was waiting out in the hallway was slightly relieved she didn’t have to meet Stormy’s parents especially Twilight in fear that she may know who she is. 

“Come on, I can show you my room.” Stormy said, walking down the hallway making a left turn down another hallway. 

Mystic was thinking about detouring the other way down another hallway, she started to begin but only got three hoof step in, until Stormy’s voice called after her. “Are you coming?” 

“Y-Yeah!” Mystic said, she sighs as she turns around making her way to Stormy’s room. 


*** 


Upon arrival, Mystic eyes widened at the beauty of Stormy’s room. “Wow! Your room is beautiful.” Mystic said. 

The colors were decorated in white and lavender definitely fit for a Princess, however it also it’s on personal touch to it. Stormy style so to speak.

“Yeah? Well it was one of the Princess’s rooms… Flurry… Crystal ... one of theirs. I believe this was Crystal’s room come to think of it. Flurry’s room was too girly and pink definitely not my style.” Stormy said, gagging a bit. 

“But isn’t this room girly as well?” Mystic wonders. 

“Purple is the color of royalty dear.” Stormy said, patting Mystic face. 

“Um, what's with the dark spooky crystals?” Mystic questions, lightly touching one with her hoof. 

“Oh it’s my own personal touch. You like it?” Stormy asked.

“.... very.” Mystic said, giving her a fake smile. 

Stormy gave her a smile back. They sat there awkwardly for five minutes. “..... so is this what friends do?” Stormy questions. 

“Do what? Talk about each other- which I’m great at, braid each other’s mane and gossip?” Mystic asked. 

Stormy shrugs. “Honestly this whole “friendship” thing is pretty new to me. I’ve been told I “force friendship” however I don’t really see it.” Stormy said. 

“I wonder why…” Mystic silently mutters to herself. 

“What did you say?” Stormy questions. 

“Nothing!” Mystic said, her muzzle scrunched. 


*** 


Twilight relaxes in her dark ruby red robe while reading a book. A thought occurred to her and she got up walking over to a calendar that was pinned up in the room. 

She realized she had an important date in red circled: April 23rd which was Harmonia Coordination Day.  “I’m coming for you…” Twilight mutters to herself, loud enough for Sombra who just walked in to hear. 

“Dear, who are you talking too?” Sombra asked. 

“Aren't you supposed to be down there looking for our guards?” Twilight questions, her cheeks slightly red from embarrassment. 

“And aren’t you supposed to be keeping an eye on that filly Stormy brought into our castle? I don’t trust her.” Sombra said. 

“Is one almighty king seriously scared of one little filly? Please. We have nothing to worry about, she may be of some use to us.” Twilight said, her smile forms into a twisted grin. 

“.... I don’t follow.” Sombra said, slightly clueless of the Queen’s sly plan. 

Twilight groans out of annoyance. “Ugh! I'll just do it. Wait here.” She said, stalking her way towards her daughter’s room. 


***


“I remember helping Father this one time I organized my mother’s library. While he was gone I “accidentally” burned some of her books just to get back at her for making one of my friends leave early when I wanted them to stay. The next day, she was furious! She enslaved one of the guards to work in the Crystal Mines when he disobeyed her orders she ordered Father to behead and execute him.” Stormy said. 

Mystic’s eyes widened. “.... let’s just say never mess with Mother’s reading material. Till this day she still believes the guard has done it.” Stormy said, softly giggling. 

“Have any crazy stories you’d like to share?” Stormy questions. 

Mystic thought for a moment. “Well one time Father and I-” Mystic said, but there was a knock on the door inturpring Mystic train of thought. 

“Stormy! I just came here to tell you that in five weeks we have someone’s special coordination to attend.” Twilight said. 

“Who’s coordination?” Stormy questions. 

“Harmonia’s.” Twilight said, and on that note she walked out. 

“Wait, who’s Harmonia?” Stormy asked, confused. She looks at Mystic who had her face scrunched up in disgust at the sound of that name. 

“I’m assuming you know of her?” Stormy questions. 

“Know of her?! She’s annoying! She’s like Confetti Pop mixed with her dad Discord!” Mystic said. 

“Uh? Who are those two?” Stormy asked, giving a confused expression to Mystic. 

“Oh right you haven’t exactly crossed paths with those two- or any of Harmonia’s friends- come to think of it.” Mystic said, slightly muttering to herself. 

“Basically she’s Twilight’s first born daughter and a draconequus no less.” Mystic said, rolling her eyes. 

“You mean Mother had a Daughter before me?” Stormy thought. 

“She believes that the world should revolve around her at all times.” Mystic said. 

“Sounds like her and I would get along then.” Stormy said, smiling. 

“I highly doubt that.” Mystic said, her muzzle scrunches. 

“But the coordination that mother mentioned sounded very exclusive. We don’t even have invitations to get in.” Stormy explains. 

“Who needs invitations… when you have connections.” Mystic said, smirking. 

“You have connections?” Stormy said, her eyebrows arched. 

“Well when you’re somepony who is great, powerful and well known then you get invited to all the exclusive parties.” Mystic brags. 

Stormy arches her brow. “Fine it’s actually an event I have to go to. But who says I can’t bring a plus one?” Mystic said, her smile turned into a devious one. 

Stormy thought for a moment. “Besides with her out of the way- we- I mean you can finally be the one to rule. Don’t you want to rule all of Equestria?” Mystic said, putting a hoof on Stormy chest. 

Stormy looks from her chest to Mystic. “Don’t touch me.” Stormy said, her tone stern. 

Mystic quickly removes her hoof from Stormy. As Stormy walks over to her mirror, thinking to herself. 

“This filly does make a point… besides once I get to that coordination she is no longer of use to me.” Stormy thought.

She then turns around facing Mystic. “Okay I’m in. So when’s the party start?” Stormy said, her smile turned into a twisted grin. 

“8:00 am and besides you would be doing everypony a favor by getting rid of her. Last I heard she was slightly unstable about having PTSD? Her dad left her when she was young and it must have had some sort of effect on her mentally wise.” Mystic said. 

“You know PTSD is nothing to play with right? Some ponies have it severely where it almost traumatizes them both mentally and emotionally.” Stormy said. 

“Sounds like to me you care.” Mystic said, slightly smiling at her. 

“I don’t, but that is something that is something not to be taken lightly.” Stormy said. 

Stormy’s entire demeanor changed. “Find us a way to get into that coordination and maybe you have a future with us.” Stormy said, her tone was serious. 

Mystic nods at her before Stormy turns to her bookshelf scouring. “What are you looking for?” Mystic wonders. 

“Something that could crash havoc on this Harmonia coordination.” Mystic said, still searching. Her eyes landed on “Dark Tales on The Crystal Empire”. 

Stormy’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “Where did you say this coordination was taking place?” She asked. 

“In Canterlot.” Mystic said. 

Stormy scouted the bookshelf once more. “Dark Tales of Canterlot” she pulls both the books down, laying the “Canterlot” one on top of the “Crystal Empire” one. 

“W-what are you about to do?” Mystic asked, slightly nervous. 

“There is a spell that I know that is a part of an ancient legend of the Crystal Empire called Shadow Clones, father told me about. They are kind of like changelings, except their form is more ghost-like.” Stormy explains igniting her horn. 

“Are you sure you know what you're doing? This looks like an advanced spell, maybe let your father or oh I don’t know your mother handles this.” Mystic said.

“Wow we just met and you already have very little faith in me.” Stormy said, her voice blunt. 

“It’s not that it’s just…. what if you pronounce the spell wrong or what if you-“ Mystic rambles, but Stormy stops her. 

“Too late I already casted it while you were rambling.” Stormy said, closing the books. 

Mystic eyes widen. “You what?!” Mystic said. 

“Relax… that spell doesn’t go into full effect until the day of whattheirnames coronation. Everything will be fine.” Stormy explains. 


***


Twilight returns to their room, where Sombra was waiting. “Seems like our daughter knows exactly what she's doing.” Twilight said. 

“You know you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink.” Sombra said. 

“Seems like to me she’s drinking that water right up. Besides, no pony forced her to do that; she did it on her own. I witnessed the whole thing.” Twilight said. 

“Very little faith you have in our daughter it seems.” Sombra mused.

“It’s not her, it's her friend. But it seems like to me Stormy has some use for her by playing that filly like a violin.” Twilight said, grinning a devious grin. 

“In the meantime we should be getting prepared, we have a party to crash soon.” Sombra said. 

“..... yes…. yes we do.” Twilight mutters her eyes gleaming with sweet revenge. 

There was a knock on Twilight and Sombra’s door. “Mother? Is it okay if we have some cookies and milk?” Stormy asked. 

“Of course, anything for you my crystal.” Twilight calls out. 

Once Stormy and another pair of hoofs were distant enough to not hear anymore Sombra speaks up. 

“We plan our attack on the day of Harmonia coordination.” Sombra said. 

“And if all else fails? Believe me I know my daughter can be very persistent.” Twilight said. 

“If all else fails then we take precautionary measures.” Sombra said, his grin widened with malicious intentions. 


***


“You know we are not so different from you and I.” Stormy muses, she sets the plate of cookies to the side. 

“How so?” Mystic questions.

"Let's just say we both have a desire for revenge on those who don't deserve to be crowned per say." Stormy chides. 

"You mean like Harmonia?" Mystic questions. 

"Exactly..." Stormy said, as a evil grin displayed on her face. 

Both Mystic and Stormy look at either other with a satisfied expression. “You know Mystic I believe this is the start of a beautiful friendship.” Stormy said, giving her friend a fake smile to bad Mystic couldn’t see that this filly was playing her like a violin though. 
> Chapter 23: Every Plan Needs A Sinner or Two
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight paces back and forth in their bedroom, pissed off, far from what she was feeling at the moment. 

“How could you let her escape?! You had her right where you needed her.” Sombra asked equally as pissed. 

Flurry Heart had escaped and possibly been killed at her own demise. She lets out a low growl as she throws a dart at a picture of Flurry Heart. 

“Well I’m sorry my King I can’t control what happens to her! Besides she’s dead anyways might as well break the news to my dearest brother and sister-in-law.” Twilight said, rolling her eyes as she continued to throw darts. 

The darts began to be ignited in flames, Sombra eyes widened at the sight. 

“Dear, do you think that this is too much of a …” Sombra said, but Twilight's voice cut him off.

“SILENCE!” Twilight yells as she proceeds to fire darts at light speed into the board, splitting in two. 

“SHE GOT AWAY! AND YOU SIT THERE ON YOUR THRONE, CACKLING AT THE THOUGHT OF VICTORY!” Twilight seethed. 

“But I-” Sombra states, but Twilight cuts him off. 

“BUT YOU WHAT!?” Twilight sneered, a dart was held in her magical aura. 

Sombra glares at her crossed. “YOU DARE YELL AT ME! I am your king and you give me your best respect!” 

“RESPECT YOU!? DID YOU EVER RESPECT ME!” Twilight asked. 

Twilight slaps Sombra, the King drops his crown, Sombra looks in shock. “This was your operation, I know, respect the system you said, now it's my operation…” Twilight growls. 

“THE ROYAL FAMILY WILL DIE TONIGHT!” Twilight seethed, she stomps her hoof on the ground creating a small crater. 

Once Sombra didn’t reply, she continued to throw multiple darts on the board splitting each one almost splitting the board in two. 

Stormy came knocking on the door. “WHAT?!” Twilight yells. 

“I just came to check on you, mother.” Stormy said, slightly concerned for her wellbeing seeing that a dart was in flames. 

“Just fine sweetheart!” Twilight said, her smile forced as she threw another flamed dart. 

“Did you need something Stormy?” Sombra asked. 

Stormy scuffed her hooves on the floor.  “Nothing much, but i just wanted to know how our prisoners are doing, the guards seem to look distraught and the Darklings are-“ she asked, but Twilight cut her off. 

“WE JUST LOST ONE BECAUSE OF YOUR FATHER!” She yells, as she shot a dart towards Sombra, he moved his head to the side avoiding the dart. 

Sombra looks at her, his eyes narrowed. “My fault!? YOU HAD HER IN YOUR SIGHTS WHEN YOU HAD THE SWORD! You're the one who wanted to feel the moment!” 

Twilight glares at him. “Take that back…” she hissed, her tone low and dangerous. 

“One of them escaped, who!?” Stormy asked. 

“FLURRY HEART!” Twilight yells, the dart she held in her magic this time melts from the heat. 

“You mean that perky pink alicorn who I demolished during our battle?” Stormy questions. 

“Yes, her.” Sombra said. 

Twilight stalks her way to the window, looking down below at the miserable destruction she and Sombra has caused. “But no matter! She’s dead, now it’s time to deal with the rest of her family.” She growls, her teeth clenched together. 

There was another knock on the door. Who else could be disturbing a pissed off Queen at this hour? Another one of Sombra guards or maids Twilight assumes, so without much bother Twilight didn’t bother to acknowledge the pony in the room. 

“Flurry Heart is alive.” 

This statement made Twilight do a full 180, her violet eyes now ruby red and fuming with rage as purple wisps pooled from them. “What?!” Twilight seethed. 

“Where is she!” Twilight demands, moving away from the window and toward the Darkling. 

When the Darkling didn’t give her the answer right away, before it even got a chance to breathe or blink Twilight had it pinned against the wall, her hooves on both sides of it head. 

“Where is she…” She asked her tone low and dangerous. 

“S-she’s back in Canterlot w-with the Princesses.” It said, fear laced in its voice. 

“Why didn’t you stop her?!” Twilight growls, as she stomps her hooves on either side of the Darklings head. 

“I just thought that-” it started to say but Twilight silences it. 

“Quite!” Twilight sneers as she then removes herself off of the Darkling. 

She silently glares as she mutters to herself out loud. “If you want something done, it’s better if you do it yourself.” She sneers, before igniting her horn setting the marked out darted picture of Flurry Heart ignited into flames. 


***


“..... so what you’re saying is while you were out picking crystal flowers for your friend this random filly just shows up?!” Luna asked in disbelief. 

“And an alicorn no less?” Celestia asked. 

“Yes!” Flurry said. 

“I didn’t know Twilight had another daughter.” Amaris mutters to herself. 

“We need a plan to go help your mom and dad.” Tiberius said, thinking of a plan. 

“Any plan of yours always ends in chaos.” Amaris mutters, Flurry giggles slightly as Tiberius rolls his eyes. 

“There’s no use. Twilight and Sombra will just capture you all and enslave you just like they did the ponies at The Empire or worse.” Flurry said, her eyes widened in fear knowing what Twilight was capable of. 

“Well we have to do something.” Amaris thought. 

“I’ve got it!” Tiberius said, his tone a bit excited.

“Does it end in chaos? Because we know your plans always manage to lead back to chaos.” Amaris said. 

“No just hear me out okay?” Tiberius said. “Amaris you’re a changeling right?” 

“Uh only half changeling. Why do you ask?” Amaris said, slightly concerned where Tiberius is going with the plan. 

“Me, you, Flurry, Aunt Luna and Mom are going to free the Royal family.” Tiberius said. 

“How are we going to do that? That place is crawling with Darklings and corrupted guards.” Flurry said. 

The doors to the castle opened up. “Oh thank Celestia! You’re alright!” 

Flurry turned around and came face to face with Starlight, as well as a few other knowing faces: Trixie and Crystal. Starlight wraps her hooves around Flurry’s neck. 

“Where’s mother and father?” Crystal asked, concerned why all her family isn’t here. 

“Still trapped at the Crystal Empire.” Flurry explains. 

 “However, if we want to free them then we need a plan of some sorts to steer Twilight and Sombra away from The Empire so we have enough time to free Cadence and Shining.” Luna said. 

“We need a distraction.” Trixie thought. 

“More than that we need a miracle!” Crystal said. 

“Normally when ponies need a distraction I’m the most distracting thing I can think of. And that’s a miracle, but isn’t the miracle of teamwork and character growth?” Discord asked, who quickly shows up looking heaven sent with a halo and playing the golden harp, before disappearing again. 

“Oh come on!” Trixie said, throwing her magician’s hat down in frustration and annoyance at Discord’s child-like antics. 

“But Discord’s right, sadly. We have to figure out how to cause a distraction without drawing any suspicion to ourselves on what we are truly trying to accomplish which is freeing Cadence and Shining.” Starlight said, thinking for a bit. 

 “What about Sombra vs Discord?” Flurry asked, this made Discord teleport back his eyes widen. 

“Oh no! No no no no! That happened last time and he had the upper hoof and now this time with Twilight!” He then shakes Flurry Hoof while placing a graduation cap on her and shoving a Discord made check for $10,0000 in her hooves before vanishing again. 

“So much for Discord’s help.” Crystal mutters. 

Tiberius thinks for a moment. “Okay, I’ve got it!” He said. 

“We strike at Aunt Luna’s night! If it’s pitch black out there’s no way they can see us! Think you can bring in the night without the moon?” Tiberius asked. 

“Besides who knows when the sun will rise again?” He said, winking.  

“If that’s even possible.” Luna said. 

“I think it’s okay if Luna let’s night last a few hours…. at least long enough for us to plan what we need to.” Celestia explains. 

“Out of all the times I wished the night could last forever you pick now to be a good time.” Luna asked, sarcasm laced her voice. 

Celestia giggles. “Then Amaris this is where you come in. Do you think you can shapeshift into one of those things that Sombra created?” Tiberius asked. 

“I can try.” Amaris said. 

“You can play off as one of them, claiming that you saw Flurry Heart and need both the assistants of Twilight and Sombra.” Tiberius explains. 

“Flurry and the rest of us will go and rescue Cadence and Shining.” Tiberius said. 

“And what if we get caught?” Starlight asks. 

“Yeah this plan sounds a tad far fetched.” Tempest agrees. 

“Then that’s a chance we are just gonna have to risk taking.” Tiberius said. 


***

8:00 pm

Celestia watches as she lowers the sun over the valley like hills of Canterlot as it was Luna’s turn to raise the moon, but tonight there would be no moon. 

“How is it possible to bring about night with no moon?” Flurry asks, watching as Luna brought about night. 

“Well you see, the number of stars and the moon needs to take into account of the-“ Luna explains, but Celestia cuts her off. 

“Alright let's get on with the plan!” Celestia said, moving to the center of the throne room. 

“What…” Luna thought to herself. 

“Out of all the times you wanted the moon to last you only asked now?!” Luna asked, her tone strict. 

“Exactly! Now let’s get to it chop chop Lulu.” Celestia said, marching forward. 


***


The Princesses as well as Starlight and the others walk through the city of Canterlot so the streets were fairly empty at this time. 

Everypony remains quiet except for Luna who was still rather concerned about this elaborate scheme. 

“Sister, we didn’t exactly think this plan through very well. I mean what happens if…” Luna said, but Celestia being the radiant and confident pony she cut her sister off once again. 

“We will think of something along the way.” She beams. 

“If we get caught I’m blaming you all.” Luna mutters. She sighs, as she follows the others but dreading how this night would go according to her nephew’s plan. 


***


The Empire from afar looked gloomy and dark, the outside palace was in fact crawling with Darklings and grounded with enslaved crystal ponies some of them were even brainwashed. 

The group hid behind two separate, but  large dark crystals like pillars peeking out at the destruction before them. 

“This was Twilight’s doing?!” Trixie asked, she couldn’t believe the once Savior of Equestria could take something so beautiful and twist it into something like out of a horror film: Nightmare On Elm Street vibes. 

“Don’t forget King Sombra’s as well.” Crystal said, gazing at her future subjects none of them had their once gleaming coats or even a smile on their face. 

“Well yeah! I expected this from Sombra, but not goody-two-hooves Princess Twilight Sparkle.” Trixie said, addressing the old Princess name. 

“Uh…. She's more of a Queen now.” Came another voice. 

“Who cares! We need to find a way to get inside the castle without getting caught.” Crystal said, her tone slightly impatient. 

“So what exactly is the plan?” Starlight whispers. 

“Oh! So you plan to free the royal family… how touching.”  

“Yes that’s exactly— Wait a minute..” Tempest said, they came face to face with the alicorn that Flurry mentioned earlier. 

“You know… I could simply go and tell my mother that we have intuitors in the castle.” Stormy said. 

Their eyes widen, well dang busted before ever getting started. 

“But I’m no snitch.” She sneers looking at the group, specifically Flurry Heart. 

“Wait, you’re the mare I defeated earlier and the one that mother said escaped.” Stormy glares. 

“No- no I’m not! I’m Skylar. I just have a twin sister who looks like somepony named Flurry Heart.” Flurry explains. 

“Nice try! But I wasn’t born yesterday.” Stormy said, firing her horn at her. 

“Plan B! Plan B!” Amaris said, her eyes widened as she watched Flurry move out of the way, dodging the attack. 

Tiberius was the one to step in between the two, he looked at Flurry Heart. “You and the others go find Cadence and Shining Armor. Amaris you go inside the Empire” He said his voice sternly. 

“But what about you?” Celestia asked, worried for her son. 

“Mother, I’m a draconequus there’s nothing our species can’t handle on our own, especially with just a snap of our paw.” Tiberius said, as he turned Stormy’s mane indigo and light blue. 

Stormy growls, firing another beam, but Tiberius blocks it with his chaos magic. “Now go!” He said. 

He turns back to the enraged alicorn. “Let’s have some chaotic fun? Shall we, my wicked dear?” Tiberius said, giving her a sly smirk. 


***


Meanwhile….

“This would have gone more smoothly if he would have just helped in the first place!” Twilight growls, blasting a crystal vase. 

“My Queen I don’t like this is a healthy way to let go of your anger.” One of Sombra’s guards said, slightly concerned. 

“Do you wish to be blasted right along with the breakables?” Twilight threatens her horn aglow. 

“No my queen!” The guard said. 

“Then never question how I run things around here! I’m your Queen aren’t I?!” Twilight said, her teeth bared. 

She stalks the hallway looking for more things to take her anger out on Sombra was down in the Crystal mines checking on the slaves the last time one of them was left down there too long they managed to escape, however from what Twilight was told Sombra took care of them by imprisonment in their in their own Crystal, almost like they were frozen in time. 

Twilight herself even had to use that spell more than once or twice.

Twilight notices a light show happening outside of the castle. “What’s going on out there?” Twilight wonders, but her gaze didn’t linger for too long as she was far too pissed about losing Flurry Heart and not finding her. 

“Your daughter is probably practicing her magic again. We have targets set up for her to practice, you know?” The guard assured her. 

“As long as she’s here close to where I can keep an eye on her then that’s fine. I’ve lost her once I’m not planning on it again.” Twilight said, before stalking her way back through the castle. 

Sombra walks in, taking off his crown he watches as Twilight stalks her way through the castle ignoring her King. 

“Nice to see you too.” He chides. 

“Sorry- I just can’t seem to get that Flurry Heart off of my mind knowing that she’s escaped!” Twilight teeth bared. 

There was a knock on the door. “You’re majesty’s Flurry Heart is here.” The Darkling said. 

“What?!” They said in unison. 

Twilight steps forward. “Where…” She asked, her eyes narrowed into slits glowing. 

The Darkling cleared its throat. “In the Castle, but she may have gone out back. Who knows. We better find her and fast.” The Darkling said, moving forward. 

“We?” Sombra questions. 

“Yes, this requires all three of us. Now come!” It said. 

Leading the rulers away from the Empire. 



***


Flurry and the others made it to where Twilight and Sombra kept Cadence and Shining imprisonment at. 

“Come on!” Crystal said, leading the group down to the underground’s tunnel.

The group followed behind, navigating through the long, narrow and tight spaces that these tunnels have to offer. 

“You know these were a lot easier to play in when we were younger.” Flurry said, slightly limping. 

“This way!” Crystal said, cutting a corner which leads to a larger room, but this room had the sound of electricity sizzling.

“Cadence! Shining!” Luna said, glad to see that they were somewhat okay a tad banged up, but okay. 

“Luna? Tempest? Starlight?! What are you ponies doing here?” Cadence asked. 

“We came to free you, duh.” Trixie said, polishing her hoof against her chest. 

Starlight rolls her eyes. “Cadence? Do you know how these bars work? Maybe I can break whatever magic is-” Starlight said, igniting her horn. 

“No use Starlight, this is dark magic used by both Sombra and Twilight.” Shining explains. 

“Wait, I see leavers! Which one deactivated the electric shock? There’s red, blue, yellow and green.” Crystal said, looking at the panel of leavers. 

“Why not pull all of them at once?” Tiberius asked. 

“Tiberius, that’s chaotic!” Crystal said. 

“Tiberius?!” They said in unison. 

“Wait ... where's the small enraged alicorn?” Trixie asked. 

“Oh I set her to stone.” Tiberius said. 

Their eyes widen in shock. “You did wh-” Luna asked, but Tiberius laughs. 

“Kidding! I actually set her in time out in her own crystal prison. So she’s frozen.” Tiberius said, his tone nonchalant. 

“THAT’S EVEN WORSE?!” Luna shouts. 

“What? You wanted me to get “rid” of her so I did.” Tiberius said. 

“That wasn’t part of the plan at all! Now Sombra and Twilight will know somepony was here.” Starlight said, her tone worried. 

“Let’s just get out of here before something else goes wrong.” Flurry said, after finding the bright red button that was one the other side of the wall she pressed it to set her parents free. 


***


“Are you sure she came this way?” Twilight asked, her eyes glowing. 

“Positive, but-” The Darkling stops in its tracks. 

Amaris noticed a dark red crystal jutted out of the ground inside it was the alicorn filly. 

“Tibby, what did you do?!” Amaris thought. 

“But what?” Sombra asked, growing impatient. 

“Come with me! I know exactly where she went.” The Darkling said. 

“In situations like these I wish there were two of me.” Amaris thought.


***

2 hours later...

“We have been scouting this area for two hours and still no sign of that pesky pink alicorn!” Twilight said.

“I’m going back inside call me when you actually find her!” Twilight sneers, stalking her way back inside. 

But, before Twilight could make her way inside she noticed something. 

“Who did this?!” Twilight raged, her eyes blazed more than ever. 

“My Queen what is-“ Sombra stops talking when he realizes what she was looking at. 

“Who in Tartarus did this?! Whoever did this shall pay.” Sombra said, his teeth bared. 

“My Queen maybe she was messing around with another one of those Crystal incarnation spells. You know how she always manages to get herself trapped in those.” The Darkling said.

“She just better hope we find that old spell book I had as a colt.” Sombra said, heading back to the library. 

“Come Darkling. You can help.” Twilight said. 

“No thanks I think I’ll just stay out here to make sure she doesn’t return.” The Darkling said, looking out at it’s surroundings.

“Fine then suit yourself. Let’s go.” Sombra said, motioning Twilight to come. 

Once Twilight and Sombra return to the castle the Darkling stays put for ten minutes before scurrying off. 


***

Amaris, who was actually the Darkling in disguise, de-transformed back into her original form. 

“What the hay took you so long?” Tiberius asked. 

“Convenienting. Lots and lots of convenience because of your mistake!” Amaris said. 

“Well it worked didn’t it?” Tiberius shot back. 

“Okay that’s enough of arguing you two.” Celestia said. 

“Well the important thing is we’re free now. While they are back in the castle we need to sneak to the front gate of the Empire.” Shining said. 

“Which will be easy because they don’t even know it’s us to begin with.” Tiberius said, his tone boastful. 

“Yeah almost.” Crystal mutters. 

“Let’s go.” Starlight said, marching forth. 


***


The guards seem to be more of them this time than the last. “Still think it’s going to be easy?” Tempest asked, her tone blunt. 

“We just got lucky the first time! Now we actually need a plan.” Amaris said. 

“Starlight, remember that invisibility spell you used when the changelings took Twilight and her friends?” Trixie asked. 

“Yeah, but I can only do two at a time, not this larger of a crowd at once.” Starlight explains. 

“But you’re Starlight Glimmer! You can do anything.” Trixie said. 

“That is true, but unless somepony wants to have an invisible body part then that’s a risk I’m not taking.” Starlight explains. 

“Well I didn’t bring any smoke bombs this time around.” Trixie said, pulling off her hat and emptying out a rabbit, handkerchief,magic wand and cards. 

“Oh come on! Look it isn’t even that far! We can just shoot across-” Tiberius started, but a loud crash halted their leave. 

Crash! 

The sound of shattering glass can be heard throughout the Empire. “Twi must be having one of her meltdowns,” Shining chucked. “I remember when she bursted into flames with her meltdown.” He’s chuckle quickly replaced with one of horror and fright. “Yeah this is probably a thousand times scarier.” 

Crash! 

“Hey! That was the best stainless glass window I’ve ever had made of me!” Crystal said. 

“Well it doesn't look like it now.” Amaris snickers. 

“The clearing is straight ahead. Let’s just make a run for it.” Trixie hisses. 

“Trixie! Wait!” Starlight and Tempest called out as another crash was heard from the outside. 

This time an object was being thrown out the window and into the crystal streets.  A crystalline vase engraved with Flurry Heart’s crystalling when she was first born. 

“The vase!!” Shining, Flurry and Cadence shouts in unison. 

“Are you trying to kill somepony?! Who has that powerful of a toss anyways I mean besides Maud.” Trixie rambles. 

“Trixie! Zip it!” Starlight hisses. 

“IT WAS ME YOU HALFWIT!” Twilight shouts, before Starlight had a chance to quickly grab Trixie and shutting her up Twilight caught a small glimpse of raspberry aura. “Hmmm….”


***


“Trixie do you want to get us caught?! We are trying to escape this hell hole of an Empire not have a six month long vacation stay here! We have to get back to Twilight’s castle before she finds out we’re here.” Shining said his tone was strict at the unicorn. 

“You don’t think I want to escape too! What I would give to be back home with Mystic and Illusion right now.” Trixie said. 

“Harmonia has been suffering through PTSD and without me or even any of us there to comfort her I wonder how she’s holding up?” Starlight wonders. 

“Well we definitely need to be there for her. Now let’s go.” Flurry said. 

They begin to move forward, halfway across the threshold. 

Halfway. 

Tinderals began to slowly wrangling and wrap around their frames. “Hey what gives?!” Tiberius asked. 

Flurry tries to use her magic, but only for the slimy tar black ooze to come back together again.

“What is this stuff?” Trixie asked, equally disgusted. 

“Well… well… well ... who do we have here?” Came a sly and cunning voice. 

In steps Twilight in all of her dark rain and glory. “And I see I even got a little present. It’s not my birthday yet, but it doesn't  hurt to have a present a few days early.” 

Her gaze lingers to Flurry. “And I see we have Flurry Heart! My dear faking your own death is not a very nice trick to pull on your Auntie Twily now is it.” She bares her teeth. 

“Now what to do with you.” Twilight said, a sly grin spreads across her face as her eyes glow. 


***


“Stay here.” The guard said, their tone stiff and rough. 

“As if we have anywhere to go.” Mutters Luna. 

The guard gave her a stern look before walking away, once the guard was out of ear shot and they heard the loud clang of the metal door shut they sat there in a moment of silence processing what happened. 

“Well this is just de freaking dandy! Way to go Trixie!” Groans Starlight. 

“My fault?! I tried to encourage you to use an invisibility spell before we got caught! But did you listen to your bestest friend?! No!” Trixie said, her hooves crossed. 

“Girls, please calm down.” Cadence said, but her voice was overshadowed by all the shouting between Trixie and Starlight. 

“Honestly we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Tiberius.” Amaris mutters. 

"If it wasn't for me!?” Tiberius sneered at Amiris, his eyes narrowed, he stood up his form irritated and annoyed. Amiris stood up, meeting face to face with Tiberius. 

"Yeah, because if you had not fought that filly back there none of this would have not happened! But no, you had to be a tough and proud pony, you had to bring down your wrath on somepony we shouldn't mess with!" Amiris yelled, panting a little her tone angry, enraged by Tiberius's stupidity, Tiberius was taken back his eyes widened at Amiris for her sudden outburst. 

"Hey! If it wasn't for me she could have been hunting us down earlier! Who knows she might even sabotage the entire thing, you should thank me for fending her off!" Tiberius yelled, his tone laced with anger as his right paw showed signs of chaos magic, about to smite somepony at any moment. 

"Guys stop!" Flurry went in between them, tears welling up in her eyes, she looked at Amiris and Tiberius, separating them a bit from each other. 

"I'm sorry Flurry, it's just that it would have gone smoothly when Tibby over there didn't battle little miss show off!" Amiris spat at Tiberius, his eyes widened once more, Flurry pushed him away a little, looking at Tiberius with angered eyes. 

"If you two keep this up we will never get out of here!" Flurry said, looking at Amiris, then back at Tiberius, Tiberius sighs and goes to a corner, sitting there for a moment. 

"I'm so sorry this had to happen to everypony..." Flurry sniffled, Amiris hugged her tightly, Flurry returned the hug ever so tightly, crying softly on Amiris.

"You did nothing wrong, we'll find a way to get out of here! Just you wait!" Amiris said, smiling at Flurry. 

Flurry looked up at Amiris, wiping her tears as she smiled back, they both looked at Shining as he tried to ram the cell gate to no avail. 

"Well how are we gonna get out of here, I am not dying down here in a rotted cell." Crystal said, crossing her hooves, Tiberius rolled his eyes and looked back at Shining.

"Here, let me help you." Tiberius said, ramming the gate down with Shining, Celestia perked her ears up, her eyes widened. 

"I think I know somepony who's still on the loose..." She said, a grin etched on her face, Luna went to her sister and looked in confusion. 

"Who?" She replied, asking her hysterical sister.

They both heard loud ramming noises from outside, grunts and armor clanking, the prison gate opens from outside their cells, seeing guards thrown to the wall like ragdolls. 

"Discord..." Luna said, her tone laced with both relief and anger.

"Good evening everypony, I had to sneak in here to get you all, but I had a little trouble with the guards, but here we are!" Discord said, bashing the guard's head on the cell bars, knocking him out in the process. 

"I knew you'd come!" Celestia nuzzled her cheek on Discord's chest, they both stayed like that for awhile, savoring each other's presence, the ponies behind them cringed, and gagged. 

"Can we just get on with escaping! We need to tell Harmonia about the certain situation!" Luna sneers, separating the two, the two giggled embarrassingly, blushing at the thought. 

"Alright this way, we have to get past the main hall, then make our way to the underground catacombs.” Discord opened the prison door, letting everypony sneak out quietly, they all looked around, seeing Twilight's rage scattered on the walls, and floor. 

"I didn't know my sister had a tantrum problem this big..." Shining said, gulping at the thought of her sister's rage, he shivered. 

"That's why I was her foal sitter remember? Apparently she never did her meditation skills seriously..." Cadence replied, following Discord through the main hall of the castle, Discord looked side to side, seeing if the hallways in the corner were empty. 

"Alright, we're here." Discord opens the giant door quietly, the rest follows him in, seeing the entire atrium dark. 

"Why is everything so dark?" Shining said, illuminating the area around them, suddenly the lights opened, revealing guards all around the atrium, pointing their swords and spears at them, Twilight and Sombra alongside Stormy watched on the balcony of the atrium a smug look on their face.


***


"Did not go as planned, did it Discord..." Sombra looked at everypony, his teeth bared in anger, Twilight and Stormy went out of the balcony area leaving Sombra to overseer. 

"Well, you see, my planning skills aren't as great as you think..." He giggled nervously, everypony behind him looked at Discord with great disappointment, he frowned and looked back at Sombra. 

"You do know that I plan to overthrow the royal family is underway right? Soon all of Equestria will bow to us..." Twilight sneered at Celestia and Luna, Stormy followed behind her, standing proud beside her mother. 

"And enslave the entire population of Equestria? That's not the Twilight I know!" Luna said, standing her ground, Celestia went in front of everypony going beside her sister. She looks stern and fierce.

"You don't know me at all at this point..." Twilight narrowed her eyes, her teeth bared, she then summoned her own longsword with her magic, the guards went closer to the group who was trying to escape. 

"Princess Celestia, you whore..." Twilight sneered at Celestia, going closer at the royal sisters, Celestia's eyes widened at her students' words, sending her off to anger. 

"I made many mistakes, I did many wrong doings, but it's not too late to fix this!" Celestia yelled at Twilight, summoning her spear, a spear made only for Celestia, her eyes welled up with tears, Luna summoned her broadsword made only for her, the two anticipated Twilight. 

"And Discord, you sly idiot..." Twilight sneers. 

Discord looks down in guilt, remembering the pain he had caused Twilight, he went back slowly, everypony looking at him with a confused look. 

"Luna, take the others to the catacombs! And find a way to escape!" Celestia orders Luna, Luna's eyes widened from her sister's statement, Luna shook her head. 

"Who's going to help you? You can't do this on your own!" Luna yelled at Celestia, Celestia looked at Luna with a smile on her face, Luna's eyes welled up in tears.

"She's not alone." Discord goes beside Celestia, bringing out the deadly claws on his paw and the sharp talons, he growled in a monstrous way at the guards. 

"How touching, yet disgusting..." Sombra said to himself, summoning his scythe, brandishing the sharp blade and teleporting beside Twilight, they both smirked in a triumphant look. 

"Love, such a dreadful bond, yet so easily severed..." Twilight said, getting into her offensive stance, Sombra went defensive, backing up her wife.

"Luna! NOW!" Discord yelled, everything felt slow, Discord snapping his fingers emitting a bright flash of light around the room, the door opened leading to the catacombs of the castle, Luna ran with the group, escaping the guards. 

"What devilry is this!?" Sombra yelled, blinded by the light, Twilight held Stormy, shielding her from the bright flash, the guards bumped into each other, trying to see. 

"Stormy, teleport out of here!" Twilight yelled, Stormy shook her head as she squeezed her eyes shut.

"What about you two!?" She yelled, Twilight pushed Stormy off, as the bright light slowly fades from them. 

"JUST GO!" Twilight scolds, Stormy teleports out of the atrium quickly, going to the balcony of the atrium silently watching the unraveling fight.

As the light fades, Discord snapped his fingers, making the guards disappear, Sombra opened his eyes in shock as he saw the room almost empty, he looked at Discord, his eyes narrowed. 

"You imbecile, you will die right where you stand!" Sombra charged up to Discord doing an overhead strike, Discord manages to catch the handle of the scythe as he dodged left avoiding the blade. 

"You see Sombra, I'm just as smart as you are." Discord taunted, he delivered a punch to the face, cracking Sombra's face armor a little, sending him back.

"Is that all you have?" Discord walked towards Sombra but Twilight rammed him, out of the way, about to thrust Discord by the side. 

"No!" Celestia yelled as he countered the thrust by pushing her sword up from below with her spear, making Twilight walk back without balancing herself. 

"Thanks!" Discord smiles at Celestia, Sombra rushed again, delivering slash to the side, Discord kneeled down, covering the wound. 

"Didn't see that coming did you..." Sombra chuckled, Discord gritted his teeth and stood up, grabbing a broadsword from one of the guards that dropped it, Sombra delivered an overhead strike but Discord quickly parried it, delivering a punch to the face once more.


     ***


"I never liked you Tia..." Twilight taunted as she hilt bashes Celestia by the face, making her back off, Twilight attacks from the sides and finishing with a heavy from above, Celestia managed to block the two side hits but fails to guard the top, breaking Celestia's defensive stance, knocking her to the ground. 

"Just stop it Twilight! This is not you!" Celestia stood up quickly, bringing a side hit to Twilight, Twilight parries it and slashes Celestia from below, riposting quickly Celestia covers her wound, her wound heals moderately, and looks at Twilight who grinned at her. 

"You asked for it..." Celestia quickly attacks from below, sending the spear's blade to Twilight's chest, Twilight blocks the attack.

Twilight riposte with a thrust but Celestia quickly parries the thrust and hits Twilight with a stun tap to the face, dazing Twilight and making her back off a little, Celestia gritted her teeth and her tears welled up, some streaming down her cheeks. 

"I DON'T WANT TO HURT YOU!" Celestia cries out, getting into defensive stance, she looks beside her seeing Discord parry a side heavy, but Sombra riposts with an overhead strike, Discord catches the handle, the tip of the blade dug into Discord's shoulder, he gritted his teeth in pain. 

"Has it never occured to you that this nation is overpopulated! Only a handful of ponies can rule this nation, Me, Twilight, and my dearest daughter Stormy..." He shoves Discord away, making him lie on his back, Discord dodges as Sombra smashes the blade onto Discord's side, Discord gets up and delivers an elbow to Sombra's side, making Sombra move back. 

"Have forgotten where you are Celestia..." Twilight sneers, Celestia looks back at Twilight, fear laced in her look, Twilight rushed at Celestia going for a thrust to the chest, but Discord rams Twilight out of the way making her hit the ground with a hard thud. 

"DIE!" Sombra delivers a side heavy but Celestia parries it, protecting Discord, she then shoves Sombra away and slashes him from above, slicing through Sombra's armor and hitting him in the process, the dark tendrils cover Sombra's wounds as he looked at Celestia with a demonic grin. 

"You are filled with hope, let me take it from you!" Sombra attacked from the side, Twilight grunted and stood up, rushing at Discord from the side, the two were pressed back to back seeing their attackers charge at them. 

"Tia!" Discord yells as they both switch weapons, Discord with Celestia's spear, Celestia with Discord's sword, the two parried the attack coming to them, sparks emitting and loud clashing rings their ears. 

"It's getting hot in here, Celestia, we must fall back!" Discord yells at Celestia, struggling to push Twilight back, Celestia shakes her head.

"I can't leave her here! Twilight, please come with me!" Celestia cries out, struggling to push Sombra back, Twilight laughs as he pushes Discord further, making it hard for Discord to defend. 

"I'M NOT GOING ANYWHERE! YOU CAUSED ME SO MUCH HURT!" Twilight yelled at Discord, sharing the anger with Celestia, Sombra laughed as he pushed the clash even harder, pinning the two defenders. 

"Celestia, I'm sorry but... We have to go!" Discord lets go of one paw from the handle of the spear, about to snap his finger, Celestia's eyes widened. 

"DISCORD NO!" Celestia yells, but Discord snapped his fingers, escaping the fight early, the two attackers landed on the ground with a hard thud, Sombra looked at the ground, gritting his teeth in anger.

"COME BACK HERE!" He digs the scythe's blade on the ground, his eyes red and his breathing heavy.


***


Celestia and Discord, who were exhausted from the fight, somehow managed to get back to the castle. 

 “You’re okay!” Tiberius said, running up to hug his parents. 

“Yeah of course we are. What? You think some wannabe King and Queen defeat the Lord of Chaos and his wife?” Discord questions. 

“Well we kind of backed out of the fight.” Celestia mutters. 

“What? Would you have preferred to get hurt instead, sister?” Luna questions. 

“No, but I could have reasoned with Twilight.” Celestia said. 

“I believe trying to reason with Twilight is the last thing she wants to hear from us, especially you, Princess.” Starlight said. 

“What?” Celestia said, her tone serious. 

“Just stating facts here.” Starlight said, her tone nonchalant. 

The castle doors open to reveal Illusion, Mystic was much of an afternoon pony however his sister was a night owl and was possibly still asleep at this hour. 

“Has anypony seen my mother?” Illusion asked. 

“She went to wake up your sister.” Starlight explains. 

“Should have known she would still be asleep at this hour. She was probably up late last night practicing her magic. I swear she’s mom's twin made over.” Illusion said, muttering the last bit to himself, however Starlight overheard this and gave a soft giggle. 

“I’m sure she will be down in a few once Mystic arises. We can come up with a strategy to save Twilight.” Starlight said, giving a soft smile. 


***

Trixie knocked on her daughter’s door. “Mystic? It’s time to get up. It’s going to be 3:00 p.m. soon Trixie understands that you love to practice magic and that you want to be the best at it, but Trixie doesn’t believe that staying up late into the night is healthy for you.” Trixie said, giving motherly advice. 

Trixie awaits for her daughter to open the door. She stood there for five minutes. “Mystic I know you’re a hard sleep- sometimes- but around this hour you usually hear our voices and are awake.” 

No answer. 

“I’m going to give you on the count of three to open this door or I’m coming in there.” Trixie said. 

“1… 2… 3” Trixie said, before opening the door, but once she entered Mystic’s room was empty and clean. 

Trixie’s frantic eyes widened as she scanned her daughter’s room. She spotted a note folded neatly on the bedside table. 

Trixie picks the note up in her aura. 


To Whom This May Concern: 



I have written this note to inform you that I have gone to look for my mother & brother. Please do not hesitate or worry about finding me I shall return. 



~ Mystic 



Ps: If I don’t return tell my family I love them and for Illusion to tell Mother to take a chance with Starlight she seems to be a wonderful pony with a rough past just like her. 


Trixie blushed at that last part, but she decided to grab a quill and mark it out. She then races down the hall with the note still in her aura. 

She busts through the door at full speed. “Mystic is gone!” Trixie said, tears welled in her eyes. 

“Wait where did she go?” Starlight questioned. Trixie shows her the note making Starlight grab it in her aura. 

“.... Wait… what does this marked out part say?” Starlight said squinting her eyes. 

Trixie lightly blushes as she quickly grabs the note from Starlight. “Nothing! But I believe she went to the Crystal Empire.” Trixie explains. 

“We just literally came from there!” Tiberius groans. 

“Relax, this time we just have to go and get Mystic. Hopefully she hasn’t stepped too far into their domain.” Amaris said. 

“Let’s hope.” Cadence mutters. 


***

Shards of broken stained glass windows scattered the ground below, the atmosphere felt drained of any sign of life and that somepony here ruled with an iron hoof or two. 

“Hello? Is anypony here?” Mystic calls out, she steps on a shard piece of glass that was of Crystal’s face.

“Crystal ... yeah maybe on second thought coming here without my mother was a bad idea. But lucky me! She got captured.” Mystic rolls her eyes and continues onward. 


*** 

Mystic felt like she’s been wandering the outskirts of the Empire for the past hour when in reality it was only five minutes. 

“I can’t believe I’m wasting my time here when I can be home practicing magic. Illusion owes me big time for this.” Mystic mutters to herself. 

The crunching of glass also got on her nerves, she silently curses whoever made this disaster of a mess. Twilight secretly watches from the window. 

“Hmmmm…” Twilight said before slowly closing her curtains. 


***


Stormy was outside playing with tiny crystallized horse-like figures.

“Ahh!!! No, don't enslave me!!!” 

“You’re too late! I’ve captured you and if you can’t do as I say then you will be sent to the dungeon.” 

“But I have a family and kids I-”

“Do we have a deal or no?” 

“You’re mean.”

“That’s it to the dungeon with you.” 

Stormy giggles at the on spot dialogue she was making up. “When I’m old enough to rule this Empire I’m gonna rule it all.” Stormy thought out loud while still playing with her figures. 

Stormy notices a filly wandering around outside the Empire, clearly she was lost. “Excuse me?” 

Stormy quickly poofs away her figures and straightens her posture. “What?” Stormy asked, her tone hardened. 

“Have you seen my mom? Trixie Lunamoon?” Mystic asked. 

“That name doesn’t exactly ring a bell to me. I’m sorry, but maybe my mother knows.” Stormy said. 

Mystic’s eyes widen “This is Twilight’s daughter?!” She thought. 

“Um I’d rather not bother your mother. She may be busy.” Mystic said, kindly backing away. 

“What’s the rush? Come on, stay a bit! I don’t bite.” Stormy said. 

Mystic slowly takes the approach to accept the mare’s invite. 

“So if you're new here at the Empire that means you could use a friend to show you around and all the wonderful things the Empire has to offer!” Stormy said, her tone slightly excited. 

“Besides, I don’t exactly have many friends here. So wanna be friends?” Stormy asked. 

“I mean it’s not like you have a choice.” Stormy said. 

Mystic never had a friend before, aside from Crystal and Jewel of course. 

“Um sure? What’s your name?” Mystic asked, even though she already knows of the mare mentioned by others, she didn’t know her name. 

“It’s Stormy. Stormy Sparkle.” Stormy said, offering her hoof out for Mystic to shake. 

“Mystic. Mystic Blue.” Mystic said, shaking her hoof and giving her a soft smile. 

“How about you come in? You could meet my mother and father.” Stormy said, getting up and making her way towards the Empire. 

“D-Do you really think that's… um necessary?” Mystic asked, her tone slightly shaking. 

“Just because they are King and Queen of the Empire doesn’t mean they are brash or harsh with getting to know my new friends.” Stormy said. 

Mystic nodded as she followed Stormy behind and into the Empire. “Okay if you say so.” Mystic said. 


***


“Mother guess what! I made a new friend!” Stormy said, her tone overly excited. 

“That’s great news right dear?” Sombra said, her elbows Twilight in the side who was still looking out the window. 

“Yes, great.” Twilight said, her tone bitter. 

“What seems to be her problem?” Stormy asked. 

“She’s just furious that her prey got away from her. She’ll be fine within an hour or so… I hope.” Sombra mutters the last bit to himself. 

Twilight scoffs. “More like pissed, but they were cowards to leave that fight early.” Twilight said, still looking out her window.

“.... okay? Well if you need me I’ll be in my room.” Stormy said, walking away.  

Mystic who was waiting out in the hallway was slightly relieved she didn’t have to meet Stormy’s parents especially Twilight in fear that she may know who she is. 

“Come on, I can show you my room.” Stormy said, walking down the hallway making a left turn down another hallway. 

Mystic was thinking about detouring the other way down another hallway, she started to begin but only got three hoof steps in, until Stormy’s voice called after her. “Are you coming?” 

“Y-Yeah!” Mystic said, she sighs as she turns around making her way to Stormy’s room. 


*** 


Upon arrival, Mystic eyes widened at the beauty of Stormy’s room. “Wow! Your room is beautiful.” Mystic said. 

The colors were decorated in white and lavender definitely fit for a Princess, however it also it’s on personal touch to it. Stormy style so to speak.

“Yeah? Well it was one of the Princess’s rooms… Flurry… Crystal ... one of theirs. I believe this was Crystal’s room come to think of it. Flurry’s room was too girly and pink definitely not my style.” Stormy said, gagging a bit. 

“But isn’t this room girly as well?” Mystic wonders. 

“Purple is the color of royalty dear.” Stormy said, patting Mystic face. 

“Um, what's with the dark spooky crystals?” Mystic questions, lightly touching one with her hoof. 

“Oh it’s my own personal touch. You like it?” Stormy asked.

“.... very.” Mystic said, giving her a fake smile. 

Stormy gave her a smile back; they sat there awkwardly for five minutes. “..... so is this what friends do?” Stormy questions. 

“Do what? Talk about each other- which I’m great at, braid each other’s mane and gossip?” Mystic asked. 

Stormy shrugs. “Honestly this whole “friendship” thing is pretty new to me. I’ve been told I “force friendship” however I don’t really see it.” Stormy said. 

“I wonder why…” Mystic silently mutters to herself. 

“What did you say?” Stormy questions. 

“Nothing!” Mystic said, her muzzle scrunched. 


*** 


Twilight relaxes in her dark ruby red robe while reading a book. A thought occurred to her and she got up, walking over to a calendar that was pinned up in the room. 

She realized she had an important date in red circled: April 23rd which was Harmonia Coordination Day.  “I’m coming for you…” Twilight mutters to herself, loud enough for Sombra who just walked in to hear. 

“Dear, who are you talking to?” Sombra asked. 

“Aren't you supposed to be down there looking for our guards?” Twilight questions, her cheeks slightly red from embarrassment. 

“And aren’t you supposed to be keeping an eye on that filly Stormy brought into our castle? I don’t trust her.” Sombra said. 

“Is one almighty king seriously scared of one little filly? Please. We have nothing to worry about, she may be of some use to us.” Twilight said, her smile forms into a twisted grin. 

“.... I don’t follow.” Sombra said, slightly clueless of the Queen’s sly plan. 

Twilight groans out of annoyance. “Ugh! Just I’ll do it.” She said. 

“Wait here.” Twilight instructed, making sure Sombra stays put. 


***


“I remember helping Father this one time I organized my mother’s library. While he was gone I “accidentally” burned some of her books just to get back at her for making one of my friends leave early when I wanted them to stay. The next day, she was furious! She enslaved one of the guards to work in the Crystal Mines when he disobeyed her orders she ordered Father to behead and execute him.” Stormy said. 

Mystic’s eyes widened. “.... let’s just say never mess with Mother’s reading material. Till this day she still believes the guard has done it.” Stormy said, softly giggling. 

“Have any crazy stories you’d like to share?” Stormy questions. 

Mystic thought for a moment. “Well one time Father and I-” Mystic said, but there was a knock on the door inturpring Mystic train of thought. 

“Stormy! I just came here to tell you that next week we have a special coordination to attend.” Twilight said. 

“Who’s coordination?” Stormy questions. 

“Harmonia’s.” Twilight said, and on that note she walked out. 

“Wait, who’s Harmonia?” Stormy asked, confused. She looks at Mystic who had her face scrunched up in disgust at the sound of that name. 

“I’m assuming you know of her?” Stormy questions. 

“Know of her?! She’s annoying! She’s like Confetti Pop mixed with her dad Discord!” Mystic said. 

“Uh? Who are those two?” Stormy asked, giving a confused expression to Mystic. 

“Oh right you haven’t exactly crossed paths with those two- or any of Harmonia’s friends- come to think of it.” Mystic said. 

“Basically she’s Twilight’s first born daughter and a draconequus no less.” Mystic said, rolling her eyes. 

“You mean Mother had a Daughter before me?” Stormy thought. 

“She believes that the world should revolve around her at all times.” Mystic said. 

“Sounds like her and I would get along then.” Stormy said, smiling. 

“I highly doubt that.” Mystic said, her muzzle scrunches. 

“But the coordination that mother mentioned sounded very exclusive. We don’t even have invitations to get in.” Stormy explains. 

“Who needs invitations… when you have connections.” Mystic said, smirking. 

“You have connections?” Stormy said, her eyebrows arched. 

“Well when you’re somepony who is great, powerful and well known then you get invited to all the exclusive parties.” Mystic brags. 

Stormy arches her brow. “Fine it’s actually an event I have to go to. But who says I can’t bring a plus one?” Mystic said, her smile turned into a devious one. 

Stormy thought for a moment. “Besides with her out of the way- we- I mean you can finally be the one to rule. Don’t you want to rule all of Equestria?” Mystic said, putting a hoof on Stormy chest. 

Stormy looks from her chest to Mystic. “Don’t touch me.” Stormy said, her tone stern. 

Mystic quickly removes her hoof from Stormy. As Stormy walks over to her mirror, thinking to herself. 

“This filly does make a point… besides once I get to that coordination she is no longer of use to me.” Stormy thought.

She then turns around facing Mystic. “Okay I’m in. So when’s the party start?” Stormy said, her smile turned into a twisted grin. 

“8:00 am and besides you would be doing everypony a favor by getting rid of her. Last I heard she was slightly unstable about having PTSD? Her dad left her when she was young and it must have had some sort of effect on her mentally wise.” Mystic said. 

“You know PTSD is nothing to play with right? Some ponies have it severely where it almost traumatizes them both mentally and emotionally.” Stormy said. 

“Sounds like to me you care.” Mystic said, slightly smiling at her. 

“I don’t, but that is something that is something not to be taken lightly.” Stormy said. 

Stormy’s entire demeanor changed. “Find us a way to get into that coordination and maybe you have a future with us.” Stormy said, her tone was serious. 

Mystic nods at her before Stormy turns to her bookshelf scouring. “What are you looking for?” Mystic wonders. 

“Something that could crash havoc on this Harmonia coordination.” Mystic said, still searching. Her eyes landed on “Dark Tales on The Crystal Empire”. 

Stormy’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “Where did you say this coordination was taking place?” She asked. 

“In Canterlot.” Mystic said. 

Stormy scouted the bookshelf once more. “Dark Tales of Canterlot” she pulls both the books down, laying the “Canterlot” one on top of the “Crystal Empire” one. 

“W-what are you about to do?” Mystic asked, slightly nervous. 

“There is a spell that I know that is a part of an ancient legend of the Crystal Empire called Shadow Clones, father told me about. They are kind of like changelings, except their form is more ghost-like.” Stormy explains igniting her horn. 

“Are you sure you know what you're doing? This looks like an advanced spell, maybe let your father or oh I don’t know your mother handles this.” Mystic said.

“Wow we just met and you already have very little faith in me.” Stormy said, her voice blunt. 

“It’s not that it’s just…. what if you pronounce the spell wrong or what if you-“ Mystic rambles, but Stormy stops her. 

“Too late I already casted it while you were rambling.” Stormy said, closing the books. 

Mystic eyes widened. “You what?!” Mystic shouted. 

“Relax… that spell doesn’t go into full effect until the day of her coordination. Everything will be fine.” Stormy explains. 
> Chapter 24: I'm Gonna Build Me An Empire... No Wait, That's A Castle...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Are you down with the plan to finally get rid of whoever that Harmonia girl is? Besides she sounds like a threat to our complete overthrow in Canterlot.” Stormy said, looking over the map of Equestria.

“How do you manage to have a map of Equestria?” Mystic questions her new friend. 

“I found it in this drawer. Apparently one of those prissy princesses was keeping it as they were going to rule this Empire one day.” Stormy then scoffs. “Well too late now.” 

She looks over the map as Mystic takes a moment to survey her surroundings. “I’ve got to find mom and Illusion.” Mystic thought. 

“Have you ever given somepony a grand tour of this place?” Mystic asked. 

“Not exactly. Both mother and father don't exactly like it when new ponies poke around here. And I’d rather not have my new friend down in the dungeons where the others are.” Stormy explains. 

“Others? What others?” Mystic asked, her tone worried. 

“That really isn’t any of your business is it?” Stormy cocks. 

“I guess not…” Mystic mutters. 

“Great! Now we just need a plan of some sort to get rid of her.” Stormy sneers. 

“Well while you’re thinking of a plan I’m just going to step outside for some fresh air.” Mystic said, opening the balcony windows and stepping out. 

Down below she witnessed a familiar blue unicorn with her annoying older brother along with Miss. Starlight and a few others. 

“Mother?” Mystic thought. 


***

Dusk falls across the Empire, and a group of once familiar ponies scouting the Empire once more. 

“Are you sure she’s here Trixie?” Starlight asked, quietly scouting the Empire. 

“Trixie is sure she’s here! Besides, Mystic even left a note behind.” Trixie explains. 

“What if she stepped into the lion's den already? You know how we already got caught, this is double the risk.” Illusion said. 

“It will be real quick. We’ve just got to grab Mystic and go home.” Starlight explains. 

“Besides how hard can it be finding one little filly?” Tiberius said. 

“You do know she’s sixteen now right?” Illusion said cocking an eyebrow. 

“Let’s just find her and get out of here. I do not want a repeat of last time.” Amaris said. 

A bright flash of periwinkle light flashes before them. 

“Flurry see if you can - or she just appears before us.” Luna said. 

“What are you guys doing here?!” Mystic hisses. 

“What are we doing here? We came back looking for you.” Tiberius explains.

“Thanks for your concern, but I’m doing fine thank you.” Mystic said, her tone confident. 

“Fine? Mystic, do you have any idea who you’re dealing with?” Trixie asked. 

“Mom, she seems harmless.” Mystic said. 

“Harmless? Mystic, sweetie…. you don’t mistake harmless with a villain's child. No offense to anypony who was a villain once, but still!” Starlight said. 

“Starlight’s right. Somewhat…” Celestia said. 

“Mystic you need to come home, before this situation gets out of hoof.” Trixie said. 

“Maybe I don’t want to go home. Yeah? Maybe it’s because somepony actually wants to be friends with me for once-“ 

“Oh Mystic stop being ridiculous.” Trixie said. 

“No mom- Maybe she wants to be friends with me because for once…. for once in my life they see me as just that instead of seeing me as “Illusion’s Little Sister”. Have you ever thought about that? The feeling of being overshadowed by your older sibling? Because you certainly can’t relate.” Mystic said. 

“I may have not had an older sibling but I do know what it feels like to be second best by somepony!” Trixie said. 

“Besides you don’t even know what you're getting yourself into sweetheart. You don’t know what she’s like.” Starlight said.

“And I suppose you do?” Mystic asked, her eyebrow raised. 

“I literally just fought her here. Even though I’m the Lord of Chaos’s son, she’s a pretty powerful filly all on her own.” Tiberius said. 

“No one asked you.” Mystic snaps. 

“Look we can’t force you to come home,  sweetheart that’s a decision you have to make on your own. As Illusion said, you’re sixteen now.” Cadence said. 

“Finally somepony here with some common sense here! Thank you, Princess.” Mystic said. 

“Now if that’s all you needed I’ll be returning to my new friend. We’ve got some fun plans.” Mystic said, her grin wide. 

She turned around, walking away from the life and family she once knew. 

“Mystic….” Trixie whispers to herself, her ears downfolded, but she dares to cry in front of ponies. 

Starlight walks up to Trixie, draping her hoof around her and giving her friend a soft smile. “Hey I know she will return. As Applejack would say a hard head makes a soft flank. She will realize it sooner or later.” She said, her tone soft.  

“Come on let’s head home, before another Equestria War III breaks out again.” Shining said, and with that Discord teleports then back to Canterlot. 


***


“You took a long break.How was everything with your family?” Stormy said, she looked up from one of the books she was reading. 

“Yeah sorry about that. Wait? What?” Mystic said. 

“I saw everything that went down. Don’t worry I don’t snitch on friends who have an alike desire for something in particular, but it is nice to see who you really chose in the end however. Now nopony will ever see you as just your brother’s little sister ever again after what we have planned.” Stormy said. 

“...... you’re right. So what did I miss?” Mystic asked, while Stormy slides what she’s been looking at over to Mystic. 


***

Starlight alongside Trixie and the others returned to the castle, with Trixie left hurt from her own daughters banter, ever since Mystic met her new "friend" Stormy her ties with her mother were nothing more but dust as the unravelling want of Mystic's desire to be somewhat independent. 

Starlight looks at her friend, Trixie's look was nothing but a mixture of blunt and sadness, Starlight opened her mouth to speak but was cut off by Celestia.

"Im sure Mystic will come back eventually, judging by earlier encounter at least we now know that-" Trixie looked at Celestia, tears slowly flowing down to her cheeks, she dared not to cry, but the dam in her eyes had burst, Trixie's look was nothing more than hurt. 

"If only I'd give her more attention, maybe none of this would have happened to my girl, I'm such a bad mother..." Celestia's eyes turned soft as she heard Trixie speak those words, her eyes flopped down slowly, Starlight approached Trixie moving her gaze to her's. 

"She'll get through her senses Trixie, i know nothing of raising a daughter, but i'm sure she'll get around, besides who would make friends in the middle of the ruins?" Starlight wonders as she looks at Luna and Celestia, their left eyebrow cocked in a suspicious way, Trixie trots slowly to her room, Starlight follows Trixie.

"There must be a third party in play sister, it may not only be Twilight pulling the strings, what if Mystic is lured into a trap?" Luna asks her sister, Celestia looks at Luna with a slightly worried expression.

"I honestly don't know Luna, even if I help something bad would happen, and Harmonia's coronation is nearing, Equestria needs a princess." Celestia said, her voice a little shaky as she retires to the throne room, Luna follows eyeballing her sister. 

"But we have more pressing matters to attend to Tia! We need to warn the public about this! What if the third party strikes, or Twilight and Sombra commences an attack!" Luna reasons with her sister, Celestia looks back at Luna, her gaze entrailed with confusion and annoyance.

"Luna, we are alicorns, we have Equestria's finest Royal Guards and we have the magic to stop them in case it comes to that! But for now we-" Celestia tries to end the conversation but is cut off by Luna, who's tone was frustrated.

"Celestia! Are you even hearing yourself? Our subjects are in danger, Equestria is in danger! We can't just crown someone with this danger headed right for us!" Luna reasons more, Celestia shakes her head in anger and sits on her throne, Luna's eyes widened at her sister's actions, completely shutting her out. 

"The coronation will commence, Equestria will meet its new leader with utmost royalty, if Twilight cant be here to see her daughter, at least we are here for her, now leave me be Luna." Luna was taken back by her sister's statement, Luna's eyes narrowed at Celestia and answered back one last time.. 

"You've blinded yourself with your own vision Celestia, Harmonia's life is at stake because of your actions, and our subjects open to an all out attack, but all you do is care for yourself, not only your motives, but your petty excuse of a family!" Luna stomps her hooves as she yells at her sister, Luna teleports away, leaving Celestia sitting on her throne, her look nothing but blunt. 


***

Sunset Shimmer has lived in Equestria for quite awhile now, with her daughter Phoenix by her side, they both lived in Canterlot castle ever since the problems that occured recently, worried for her teacher Twilight and Twilight's daughter Harmonia, it was now late in the evening and Sunset felt thirsty, so she slowly got out of bed, not waking her daughter up.

She makes her way down the spiral steps from the royal rooms she was in, the floor was none other than fine granite her hoofsteps echoing throughout the castle, as she went down she saw the castle guards standing in their position, she then makes her way to the kitchen to grab something to drink, as she makes her way to a corridor on her left she bumps into Starlight who was currently carrying spell books, Starlight almost dropped them, her magic caught the books with ease and looked to the side only to see Sunset rubbing her nose. 

"Sunset! I'm so sorry!" Starlight apologizes, setting down the books and tending to her friend, Sunset giggles a little and looks at Starlight. 

"I'm fine, I wasn't looking so I'm very sorry."
Sunset apologizes back, ever since Starlight and Sunset became friends, their bond has gotten them closer, true friends. 

"Oh don't apologize, what brings you here? You look lost." Starlight asks as she levitates the books, Sunset fixes her bangs and replies. "I was looking for the kitchen, I'm a bit thirsty."
Sunset chuckled in embarrassment.

"Oh it's this way, come on." Starlight guide's Sunset to the kitchen and a long chatter begins between the two. 


***


A few minutes later, Sunset and Starlight head back up, Starlight was still levitating some books but Sunset immediately grabbed some from her to lessen the load. 

"Thank you, so you went to Equestria because what again?" Starlight asked, still not believing the reason why Sunset was here. 

"I'm here because my husband never provides for me and Phoenix, I tried looking for jobs and to my unlucky flank I found none." Sunset said bluntly, her tone annoyed just by thinking about it. 

"At least you're here with us for the time being, and are headed back to sleep cus im still going to the library to study defensive magic and-." Starlight stops, soon Sunset stops as well, mild sobbing was heard from the distance, Sunset and Starlight stood there quietly listening to the source. 

"Harmonia?" Starlight questions Sunset as they follow the source of the sound, behind a door that was embedded by her mother's cutiemark Starlight follows Sunset to the door, their ears perked from the listening, they hear Harmonia crying softly, wailing a little.

"Harmonia!" Starlight slams the door open, Harmonia jumps up, her eyes widened and bloodshot, Starlight looks around for trouble but to no avail, Sunset follows her horn illuminated.

"Is everything ok sweetie?" Sunset asked, looking at a shocked Harmonia, Harmonia's face shifted from shocked to sobbing, digging her head on the pillows, her hair covering her face. 

"Spoke too soon..." Sunset mumbles. 

"Harmonia, sweetie is something wrong?" Starlight asked as she approached Harmonia, Harmonia curled in a ball form, the blanket covering her body, Starlight slowly went up on the bed and stroked Harmonia's mane, her soft sobs became little wailing. 

Sunset follows Starlight and climbs to the opposite side of the bed, laying down next to Harmonia wrapping her in an embrace, Harmonia holds onto Sunset's hooves that were wrapped around her and wails louder. 

"Harmonia..." Starlight now realizes what was wrong, from all this pain that Harmonia feels, the suffering she has gone through, only falls to one answer. 

"All of her burdens took a real toll on her." Sunset says quietly to Starlight, she nods and lays down next to Harmonia, who wails whilst holding on to Sunset's hooves, Harmonia slowly opens her eyes.

"Mommy..? " Harmonia manages to speak, sniffling and choking a little, Starlight's heart sank, all the pain that Harmonia endured took a big toll on her. 

"Hey kiddo, it's me, Aunt Starlight." Starlight replied softly, Harmonia's eyes opened completely, not seeing her mother in front of her but her aunt was very concerned, Harmonia sniffled until tears flowed down to her cheeks she started sobbing once more. 

"It's ok sweetheart, it's gonna be ok." Sunset sits up slowly, gently pulling Harmonia up, Harmonia immediately latches on to Sunset and wraps her eagle claw and lion paw  around Sunset's neck, screaming, her eye's squeezed and her face a little red. 

Sunset's eyes widened and slowly rocked Harmonia, Sunset wrapped her hooves around Harmonia, giving her an embrace that only reminded Harmonia of the sweet loving hug of her own mother.

"Mom..! I want my Mom back..." Harmonia chokes out, sobbing till no end, Starlight goes closer, rubbing the back of Harmonia gently, Starlight and Sunset feel bad for Harmonia as they try to comfort her as much as they can. 

Harmonia continues to cry as she buries her face in-between Sunset's neck, Sunset lays her head on Harmonia's mane, rocking her slowly. 

"I know sweetie, we'll get Twilight back, we promise." Sunset said calmly, Starlight levitates the blanket and wraps it around Harmonia. Harmonia was shaking, her body a little sweaty from the nightmare's, the pain she witnessed every passing day without her mother to give her the strength to move forward. 

"We'll get her back in no time." Starlight smiles at Harmonia, Harmonia can't help but bury her face in between Sunset's neck, hiding herself from the two.

"I m-miss Mom..!" Harmonia says to herself, as she hugs Sunset tighter and screams louder, her sobbing more louder than before, Sunset's eyes widen and rocks her shaking body gently. 

"It's gonna be ok sweetie, come lay down with me." Sunset lays back down with Harmonia as let's go and immediately hugs the pillow, Starlight gets close to Harmonia, stroking her mane. 

Starlight embraces Harmonia, Harmonia's face was buried in Starlight's fur, hiding herself from the two, Starlight hugs her tightly hearing her wails begging to be with her mother yells louder, Starlight feels tears streaming down her eyes but brushes it away.

"I gotta head back, Phoenix might wake up, can you handle it here?" Sunset asked quietly, Starlight nodded as she rocked Harmonia gently. 

"Alright, I'll leave you to it." Sunset leaves quietly, leaving the two hugging, as if this was all that Harmonia needed, but she still yearns for her mother's presence which makes Starlight heart sink. 

"It's ok sweetie, I'm here." Harmonia hugged tighter, sobbing more, she started wailing, not able to hide her face any longer. 

“Am I broken?” Harmonia asked, with tears in her eyes as her voice broke. 

“Why would you say that?” Starlight asked. 

“Cause I’m nothing more than a broken mess! I can’t just sit here with a smile on my face and pretend that everything is okay! Because my emotions have been running all over the place, some days I can feel fine! But you know what? That’s a mask. A mask that I wear everyday to hide the fact I am a broken mess who needs the two that I’ve needed in my life since Day one and you know what? They aren’t even here!!!!!” Harmonia yells, throwing a picture frame causing it’s glass to shatter. 

Starlight’s eyes brimmed with tears, feeling sorry for her niece. 

“You guys have been saying that you will get her back since she’s been gone! And how is that working for you? Hmm?” Harmonia bared her teeth. 

“Do I even deserve a shred of worth or hope that anything will get better? My life has been a consent hell since they left! I’ve been a thousand nights alone thinking and hoping that she would come back. That alone sends me into slowly losing my hope and trust. I don’t even know where she even went! And you want to know the worst part? I could have prevented her from going to Celestia knowing where.” Harmonia rants. 

“You couldn’t have prevented something like this from happening.” Starlight said, rubbing her mane. 

“Could I? I could have stepped up instead of complying with her about going to Pinkie Pie’s that day.” Harmonia said, wiping tears. 

“I’m scared, scared of what the future will hold, it’s been nine years and she still hasn’t returned! She’s missed every birthday, Heartswarming, and most importantly she’s missed the chance to watch me grow up. Di… Did she leave because of me? Because I was such a big disappointment in her life, a regret maybe?” Harmonia downcasted her eyes to the floor blinking back tears. 

“I regret the last thing I ever said to her before she disappeared was the fight that we got into. If I could go back in time and change the past I would.” Harmonia sniffles. 

Starlight lightly giggles to herself. “Yeah time traveling is not something I would recommend. But what’s done in the past is done, nothing can be erased or rewrote.” Starlight explains still stroking her mane.

Starlight then thought for a moment. “You were never a mistake to begin with Harmonia.” Starlight said.

“How do you know that?” Harmonia sniffs. 

“Because I know of a strong, brave and feisty young mare who believes in doing the right thing. I know I am not your mom and you, my dear are not my own daughter, but you are like a daughter to me… Harmonia, even if you are my niece I want to say that I am super proud of you.”  Starlight said. 

Harmonia scoffs for a minute. “Sounds like something mom would say…” she mutters. 

“And besides if I had one I hope she would be just like you.” Starlight said, lightly touching the tip of Harmonia nose. “Are you feeling better?” Starlight asked. 

“I’m fine.” Harmonia said, giving her a strained smile. 

“Yeah…. I don’t believe you for a second.” Starlight said. 

Harmonia looks at Starlight for a moment, silence clinged in the room for a good ten or fifteen minutes . Tears welled in her eyes, without a word Harmonia clung onto Starlight, the room filled with loud sobs. 

“Why did they not want me? First dad now mom….” Harmonia said, her voice broke a bit. 

“They both did want you Harmonia.” Starlight explains. 

“Yeah? Well if they both wanted me… they would have stuck around! I watched them both drift away from my life. And you’re saying that we will get her back! How’s that going so far for you mhm?” Harmonia asked. 

“Harmony I know you're speaking out of hurt.” Starlight said, stroking her mane. 

“Yeah I’m hurt. Hurt at the fact that the two who didn’t want me only to go off and be Celestia who knows where and never return.” Harmonia rants as tears aligned her eyes.

"You and I both know that's not true! You are a gift Harmonia, your mother raised you to be like her, remember? All independent and strong, just like her. Twilight never gave up on you, and I saw that myself when she raised you up to the mare you are now, full of confidence, always finding a way to get back up no matter the situation!" Starlight protests, Harmonia leans closer sniffling, Starlight gladly embracing her, Harmonia wails out and Starlight rocks her gently. 

"It doesn't matter whose fault this is, it wasn't yours nor your mother's fault, it was Sombra and Celestia, you know that very well young mare." Starlight states, kissing Harmonia's forehead once more and brushes her mane, the mare calms down a little this time.

"I'm sorry that I got you into this, all of you…" Harmonia apologizes, her gaze staring down, Starlight puts a hoof on Harmonia's chin and raises it to meet her gaze. 

"Don't be kiddo, always know that I'll love you just like your mother did, and we'll get Twilight back, and you'll have the privilege of kicking Sombra's flank to kingdom come!" Starlight state's proudly nuzzling Harmonia by the cheek, Harmonia giggles and embraces her aunt calmly, a wave of serenity settles in her chaotic mind, as she stays in the warm loving embrace of her aunt. 

"I love you aunt Starlight…" Harmonia yawns, her shaking disappears, Starlight lays Harmonia down and uses her magic to close the door gently, Starlight levitates the blanket and lies down with Harmonia, still embracing her, she then sets the blanket down on them. 

"Guess i'll study tomorrow, i need sleep anyway." Starlight thinks to herself, Harmonia gently places her cheek on Starlight’s chest allowing sleep to take over, Starlight rubbed Harmonia's back and kissed Harmonia's cheek. "Goodnight kiddo, I'll be here with you, always." Starlight says, as she closes her eyes. 

"Goodnight aunt Starlight…" Harmonia yawns, before letting the sleep take over her.


***

Meanwhile…

The two enter the dingy and dark cavern, the only source of light made in the cracks of the tops and sides of the cave. 

A voice, who was all too familiar echoes through the dark cave. “Ah Somba, back so soon?” she cooed, her tone nonchalant. 

“Yes, and I just came by to check over the plan once more.” Sombra explains. 

“Don’t tell me you forgot already. Well to be fair you are over a thousand years old.”  Chrysalis appeared from the shadows, her eyes went from calm to curious and almost threatening.

“What is she doing here?” Chrysalis asks, looking at the dark purple mare. 

Sombra smirks at the changeling. “Don’t worry she’s with us.” Sombra said, his tone remained casual. 

“So when you said wife you actually meant The Princess of Friendship?” Chrysalis said, slowly coming to terms with what was happening. 

“Yeah, what’s it to you?”  Twilight asks, her tone was snarky and rather unpleasant.

“A feisty one huh?” Chrysalis asks, her tone playful. 

Twilight just rolled her eyes at Chrysalis obviously annoyed at her lame attempt to make conversation. 

“Look, I don’t have time for a round of fifty questions, where on a schedule you know.” Twilight said, narrowing her eyes at the two. 

“And what do you propose Sparkle…” Chrysalis asked. She looks at Twilight, a look of mockery etched on the Queen's triumphant expression. 

Twilight chuckles, and unbuckles something from her side. “Simple, this!” She suddenly lifts a Longsword, slamming the blade onto the cobblestone table, making a small crack appear on the surface, her eyes glowed dark magenta. Laughing a bit, Sombra went beside her, a triumphant expression on her face.

“Rebellion, my Queen…” She mocks, laughing at Queen Chrysalis, she slowly retracts the Longsword from the table surface

“And who are you proposing we rebel against? Didn’t think I’d come across you as a one for violence.” Chrysalis said, her tone smug.

“Who do you think? Celestia and Discord of course.” Twilight said. 

Chrysalis looked between Sombra and Twilight. 

“Is she serious?” She asked, her tone in disbelief.

"I believe she is, as you can see, we both share the same prey, and with those two prey out of the way, we can proceed with whatever we want." Sombra said, as he circled the room, shadows and Changelings looking at each other, preparing for a war room, but Sombra didn't give any orders, he looked at Chrysalis, his expression smug.

"I know you wanted them out of the picture as well, not after what he did to you.." Sombra said as he displayed a holographic version of Discord on the table, he chuckled, looking at Discord and Celestia.

"It saddens me really, but then again, he pulled out before we could even unite as villains before then, right Chryssi..." He teased Chrysalis, looking at her with the same expression.

Chrysalis stares at the image before giving a twisted scowl. “.... Discord could have been some use to us until he went all soft. And I even heard that he has a new family. I thought you two would stay in the picture forever, dear?” Chrysalis asked, looking at Twilight.

Twilight’s expression hardened. “That doesn’t concern you now does it?” Twilight said, her tone rather hardened. 

”I merely only ask a question dear.” Chrysalis soothes.

Sombra slams the Scythe on the ground, and aims the blade towards Chrysalis's throat, he slowly looked at Chrysalis, his eyes filled with purple and green mist, he chuckled, the Changelings and the Shadows took one step forward as if they were ready for an attack.

Sombra gestured to them to stop moving, before he could speak, he looked at Twilight, still chuckling a bit.

"You know Chrysalis, you and I are not so different, I don't plan on killing you really..." Sombra makes the Scythe disappear, letting Chrysalis breath.

"Royalty does not come with good intentions, it sometimes unravels into something mad." He slowly circles Chrysalis this time, the changelings looking at him.

"A question that was out of bounds for my queen..." Sombra replied to the statement that Chrysalis said to Twilight.

"Indeed he grew soft, this is our time, ladies..." Sombra looks at Twilight and Chrysalis, the image of Discord and Celestia in front of them.

"Our time to strike back against these tyrants who sought peace!" He slammed the Scythe on the image, cracking the table surface once more.

"So I suggest we form an alliance." Sombra looked at Chrysalis, gesturing at the tyrant they knew before..

“So if I join this so called alliance what’s in it for us?” Chrysalis asked.

"You get to kill Cadence, Shining, Luna… and finally have your revenge on Starlight. " He said as he lifted the Scythe, and made it disappear in front of them, the shadows and the changeling stepped back a bit. Preparing for an alliance.

"Surely you can do that right?" Sombra mocked Chrysalis, looking at his wife, he smirked at Twilight before looking at Chrysalis.

"My queen gets to kill Discord and Celestia of course...i want her to have the main course..." He said, before positioning himself beside Twilight, both of them giving Chrysalis a smug look.

"Not only that, you get to have an infinite amount of love to kill, after all, Ponies are soft, aren't they?" Sombra said, before laughing at his own sarcasm.

He went near Chrysalis, and whispered.

"Show me how your hatred flows out of you when you slowly kill those two love inducing freaks in front of their followers, fear wins all things..." He said, as he made his way to the door, he gestured for Twilight to follow him, still waiting for the reply of Chrysalis.

Chrysalis thought for a moment, before a twisted demonic smile spread across her lips. “King Sombra you have yourself a deal.” She said, looking at the tyrant.

"That's what I want to hear..." Sombra said, before signalling Twilight to follow him. 

Both of them made it out of the conference room, where two dead royal guards were seen, slashed by two slash wounds.

"Dearest. Shall we be heading back?" Sombra asked.

Twilight nods and the two make their way out of Chrysalis chambers. 


***

 Twilight and Sombra made their way through the dingy cave, and back into the Everfree. “Now shall we be heading back?” Sombra asked, going forth, Twilight following close by.

“Twilight…” A voice whispers, it was faint, but she was the only one who could hear it, but she brushed it off thinking nothing of it. 

“Twilight…” The voice whispers, this time more haunting than ever.

A sharp pain pierced through Twilight’s head, making her wince in pain. “Ahh!” she screams, her eyes squeezed shut. 

Sombra stops and turns to Twilight, who notices that she was in pain. “Twilight, are you okay?” He asks, slightly concerned for the young mare. 

Twilight eyes snapped open to reveal white iris. 


***


“Why am I back here again?” snears Twilight, who was annoyed. 

“It’s about time I got your attention.” snarks Evil Twilight. 

“Well did you have to go that route?” Asks Twilight.

Evil Twilight just smirks at her. “What do you mean? Pain is fun!” the Evil Twilight teases. 

Twilight just rolls her eyes. “Wait… isn't there supposed to be a good version of my subconscious?”  

“Eh, she’s running late.” Shrugs Evil Twilight. 

“Twilight, wait!” Twily said, galloping before them. 

“Oh look here’s goody-two-hooves now.” Evil Twilight said, her tone sarcastic. 

“Don’t do this!” Twilight said. 

“Wait, how can there be two of you? The last time I was here there was only you.” Twilight said, pointing a hoof at Evil Twilight. 

“That’s because I was you. You know before you got corrupted, now I’m just buried in the back of your subconscious. Oh and I’m Twily by the way, nice to meet you. ” smiles Twily. 

“But, Twilight please just listen to me.” Twily said, looking between the two, but mostly looking at Evil Twilight. 

“Nah ah ah, you may call me Eclipsia from now on.” Smirks Evil Twilight. 

“Seriously, it took you that long to come up with your own identity.” Twily asked, her tone deadpanned.

“Hey I was doing some planning.” snaps Eclipsa, her tone sarcastic. 

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Please… don’t do this Eclipsa, let me show you that there is another way.” Twily begs, her tone pleading. 

Twily grabs Twilight and Eclipsia hooves, as well as her own, she puts them together, and from the three intimated a bright white light. 


***

11:00 pm

Twilight races back to Ponyville, obviously tired and out of breath. From ahead of her was the Castle of Friendship. She smiled as it came into view. “I’m almost home.” she thought to herself. 

She throws the castle door open and rushes inside, Her breath rapid and slightly out of breath. Twilight slides her back down the cold bare surface of the door. She sighs, as she catches her breath.

“Mom?!” Harmonia questions, her tone sounding surprised and shocked by her mother’s sudden appearance. 

Twilight opened her eyes at the sound of where the voice was coming from, she was slightly startled when the creature came up and hugged her. 

She carefully hugged the creature back. “It’s me, Harmonia, remember your daughter.” Harmonia said, her voice was slightly excited. 

“Of course I remember you, my little fuzzball.” Twilight said. 

Three mares came into the hallway of the castle, slightly confused by Harmonia’s excitement. 

“Harmonia what is it?” Tempest questions. 

“Look Mom’s back!” Harmonia said, still excited. 

Trixie, Starlight, Sunset and Tempest all looked at the young purple alicorn with a bewilderment look on their faces. “Twilight?!” They said in unison. 

Twilight looked from Harmonia to the mares, more specifically Starlight. “Hehe, I’m back!” Twilight announced, her tone slightly bashful.


***


The next morning, Twilight was surrounded by her friends and family. “We are so glad to have ya back, Twilight. Everypony here really missed you.” Applejack said, smiling at the purple alicorn. 

“Especially Harmonia.” Rarity said, ruffling her niece's mane.

Harmonia hugs her mother’s hoof tighter than ever, not ever wanting to let her go. 

“How are you even here?” Tempest asks, her tone still in disbelief. 

“I guess I’m just stronger than some of you ponies underestimated.” Twilight said, her tone nonchalant.

Shining chuckles. “I guess I underestimated you just a tad.” he said, his tone sounding sheepish. 

“Well it really is great to have you back, darling.” Rarity said, her voice calm. 

“It’s great to be back! I have honestly missed you all.” Twilight said. 

“You know what this afternoon should call for?” Pinkie Pie said, beaming. 

“A party?” Rainbow Dash asks. 

“A party!” Pinkie Pie said, throwing confetti in the air. “Twilight! We are going to throw you the biggest party known to ponykind to celebrate your return!” Pinkie Pie said, her tone full of pep. 

“Oh, Pinkie you don’t have to do that, really.” Twilight said, her voice remaining humble. 

“Nonsense! The Princess of Friendship deserves only the best. And I will not take no as your answer.” Pinkie said. 

“Well, if you would like to, then go ahead.” Twilight said, giving her bubbly friend approval. 

Pinkie Pie beams and bounces away. “It really is great to have you back Twilight. You have a lot of catching up on.” Tempest said. 

“I would love that but for now…. let’s party! Right?” Twilight said looking at Pinkie pie.

“Right!” Pinkie beams. 


*** 

The party outside was in full swing, nearly half the town in Ponyville, her students from The School of Friendship, and ponies from The Crystal Empire and Canterlot were all gathered in Ponyville for the princess’s return. 

Everypony was mingling and music was pouring from the speakers of DJ-Pon3 turntable. 

“Okay everypony please put your hooves together for the return of the beloved Princess of Friendship, Princess Twilight Sparkle!” Pinkie announces. 

A thunderous applause of hooves filled the air. Twilight smiled warmly at the adoring crowd. 

“Thank you everypony for welcoming me back with open hooves! It is wonderful to see the love and support that you all have for me! Thank you...  to my friends for never losing hope. And I especially want to thank my daughter for never losing faith in my return! Now please everypony feel free to enjoy the rest of this wonderful party!” Twilight said, she said, she moves away from the crowd, not always liking being the center of attention. 

“Pinkie! This party you threw was wonderful! You have really outdone yourself this time!” Twilight said, beaming at her bubbly friend. 

“Awe, it was no biggie, really!” Pinkie Pie said, proud of her own accomplishment. 

“Aunt Twilight!” Flurry Heart beams, she raced towards her aunt. 

“Flurry!” Twilight said, smiling as her niece hugged her. 

“I have really missed you.” Flurry said. 

“I’ve missed you too.” Twilight said, enveloping her niece in a hug. 

“But I’m so glad to see that you are back.” Flurry said. 

“That makes both of us!” Spike said, smiling at her.

 A claw taps the back of Twilight’s shoulder, Twilight turns around to come face to face with Discord and Celestia. 

“Twilight, do you think we can talk?” Discord asks. 

“Uh… sure Discord.” Twilight said, unsure of where this was heading. 

Twilight and Discord go to the far end of the party where they were both alone. “Listen, Twilight I am so sorry, for everything I have caused.” He said, his tone sounding sorrowful. 

Twilight looked at him slightly confused, but Discord continued. “It hurts to know that I have put you in so much pain and I will never forgive myself for what I have done to you. I honestly don’t blame you if you don’t give me a second chance at all.” Discord said. 

“Discord…” Twilight said, but Discord didn’t even give her a chance to speak.

 “I am happy with Celestia, I will admit it, but you will always and forever will be my first love.” Discord said. 

“You may not forgive me today or even twenty moons from now, but I just wanted to tell you how I have been feeling and that I am ashamed for my actions.” Discord said. 

He then notices a small crowd of fan-ponies from the distance who were eagerly  to meet The Princess of Friendship. 

“I won’t keep you from your party any longer, now if you will excuse me I have to go find Harmonia.” Discord said, in a flash he left. 


***

Harmonia and her friends were enjoying the welcome back party for her mother. She was so glad to have her mother back in her life. 

Harmonia smiles happily as she watched all those who cared about her mother enjoy the small get together. Harmonia noticed that her mother was giggling and laughing with her friends. 

“How do you feel about your mother’s return?” Ophelia asked, gently smiling at her friend.

Harmonia sighed a breath of relief, giving her friend a gentle smile. “Like peace has finally been restored.” She softly mutters. 

The Canterlot garden was decorated with a simple but beautiful fashion. Fairy lights and light bulbs hang around the trees and bushes. Making what her Aunt Rarity would call it a ‘rustic chic’ look. 

Harmonia watches as Prism, Meadow Bliss and Illusion were making conversation on the other side of the garden. She softly smiled to herself as she finally felt at peace and rather calmed. 

She lifted her cup to her mouth, taking a drink of apple cider. 

“Fuzzball?” A familiar voice came. 

However, Harmonia hasn’t heard that nickname in years. Her eyes widen as she spits out her drink. 

She coughs a few times before regaining her composure. “Dad?!” Harmonia said, her tone surprised.  

“W-what are you doing here?” She asked. 

She then suddenly remembered the hurt she felt when he left her and Twilight all those years ago. Her expressions remine cold. 

“I came here because I was told that your mother has returned, but…” Discord pauses for a moment. Harmonia could see the hurt in his eyes. 

Did he really mean to hurt her? Or is he really in love with Celestia and had an affair in the process?

I mean yeah the second option is true, but Harmonia just couldn’t wrap her mind around why her father would do something like this? 

“I also came here to apologize.” He said, his tone low. 

“For what? Walking out on me and mom when we needed you the most?” Harmonia said, her tone bitter. 

Discord didn’t exactly know what to say so Harmonia continues. “For missing nearly six years of my life? For pushing me away when you know for a fact that every little mare needs their father.” Harmonia bares her teeth slightly. 

Trying her best to not let her emotions get the best of her. She did not want a repeat of what happened in Magic Kindergarten which was the mishap with Crystal, but this time it would be her own father. 

Harmonia looks at her dad, wondering where her loving father even disappeared and is replaced with someone who could care two cents about her or her feelings. 

“What did you do? What made you change your mind about mom to go off and marry Princess Celestia?” Harmonia asked. 

Discord thought for a moment and was about to open his mouth, but Twilight’s voice sounded throughout the garden causing everypony to turn and pay attention to her. 

Discord looks at Harmonia, watching as his daughter pays attention to Twilight. A melancholy expression etched onto his face. “I wish I could explain my reason, sweetheart. But just know that I will always love you.” Discord thought. 


*** 


The party winded down to and end, the backyard a complete mess, but Twilight decided to clean the mess up tomorrow. 

She makes her way to her room, exhausted and tired. Which only left Starlight and Tempest awakened. “I think I am going to turn in for the night. Goodnight girls!” Twilight said, she shuts her bedroom door. 

But before going to bed, Twilight goes to her desk. She pulls out a notebook and quill, making a very specific note to herself. 

“破坏 星光” 


***

Twilight and Harmonia spent the day together restacking some of Twilight’s old books. 

“I’ve been meaning to donate these to the local library. I don’t use these anymore so they wouldn’t be of much use to me.” Twilight said, grabbing a box and putting the books that she was going to donate to the local Canterlot library. 

“Of course!” Harmonia said, helping her pack away some of the old books. 

“You know mom my coordination is on the 23rd this month.” Harmonia said, making an idly conversation with her mother. 

“Oh I know! I can’t believe my little girl is old enough to be crowned Princess of Equestria.” Twilight said, tearing up a little. 

“Oh mom! I’m still going to always be your little girl.” Harmonia said, softly smiling as she put some of her books that she didn’t read into the donation box. 

“There’s so much I have to catch you up on.” Twilight said, a worried expression formed. 

“Don’t worry mom, Flurry Heart has been helping me get some practice in. However I could use it from a mother’s perspective since you are the Princess of Friendship.” Harmonia said, lightly giggling. 

“Of course. I mean before I was crowned Princess. Celestia set me up with all sorts of challenges before I had a chance to prove my worth that I was ready to rule.” Twilight explains. 

“And how long did that take?” Harmonia asked. 

“Basically my whole life.” Twilight mutters. 

Harmonia eyes widen slightly. “However, since you are the heir to my throne and your father’s. I’m positive that you don’t have to go through any challenges.” Twilight thought. 

“Besides I know you will make a great crowned Princess! You have what it takes.” Twilight said. 

“You think so?” Harmonia asked. 

“I know so! You’re smart, brave, strong minded and very vocal about your opinions to others. You're free-spirited and adventurous and you never give up when the odds are against you. I’m so proud to call you my daughter.” Twilight said, ruffing her daughter’s mane. 

Harmonia's eyes lightly pricked with tears. “Oh mom…” Harmonia said, hugging her. 

Twilight places the last book in the box and folds the flaps of the boxes together. “Do you think you can run these to the Canterlot library? I’m sure they could use more donations.” She said, handing the boxes to Harmonia. 

“Sure thing!” Harmonia said, as she teleported out of Twilight’s library. 

“Oh! Twilight there you are!” Starlight said, smiling. 

“How are you feeling?” She asked, since Twilight has been captured by Sombra for nine years she’s been generally concerned about her friend’s well being. 

“I’m feeling fine Starlight. Why do you ask?” Twilight asked, generally concerned. 

“It’s been nine years since we’ve seen you. Considering that you’ve been with Sombra this entire time I’ve thought that maybe he might have possibly could have caused you some mental as well as maybe emotional damage over those years.” Starlight explains. 

“I’m not just saying this from a guidance counselor point of view, but I’m also saying it as your friend.” She said, giving her a concerned look. 

“Starlight, thanks for the concern, but I’m fine… really. And besides if something is ever bothering me I’ll be sure to tell you.” Twilight said. 

“Promise?” Starlight asked. 

Twilight nods. “Promise. Now I need to talk with you about Harmonia upcoming coordinations on the 23rd. I think we need extra guards there.” Twilight said, looking at her list. 

“Why extra guards?” Starlight wonders. 

“Just for precautions is all. Just because I returned from escaping Sombra doesn’t mean he’s still not out there.” Twilight explains. 

“I understand. How about you talk with your brother about the extra security for Harmonia coordination? I’m sure he wouldn’t mind.” Starlight said. 

“Of course! Why did I forget that my brother was Captain of the Canterlot Royal Guard?” Twilight asked, out loud.

“Well you have been gone for nearly a decade.” Starlight said. 

Twilight gave a nervous laugh. “Right.” 


***


“Hey Twily, how you been kiddo?” Shining said, proud to see his little sister. 

“I’m good thanks, as much as I would love to chit chat Shining and catch up. I came here on personal means.” Twilight said, her tone calm.

“Oh. Well what can I do for ya?” Shining asked.

“I was wondering if you would round up more guards for Harmonia coordination on the 23rd this month?” Twilight asked.

Shining Armor stayed quiet for a moment. 

“Uh? Shining? Did you hear what I asked?” Twilight asked. 

“I’m sorry Twily I can’t.” Shining said. 

“What? What do you mean you can’t?” Twilight asked, concerned. 

“....... I resigned.” Shining said, his ears slightly downfolded. 

“YOU WHAT?!” Twilight yells.



***

“I said I resig-“ Shining said, but Twilight cut him off. 

“Yeah I know what you said, but why?!” Twilight asked. 

“You’re Canterlot Royal Guard material! You’ve always wanted this since we were kids growing up! Why did you resign?” Twilight asked, her tone in shock. 

“Well a funny story actually…. Well I had a dream that we were fighting each other. It’s ridiculous now that I think about it, but that dream felt real. And fighting with you- my own little sister is something that I never could or would wish that I would have to do.” Shining said. 

“Oh Shining… that will never happen. You know that.” Twilight said, giving him a hug. 

“I know, but you know how dreams can be.” Shining said.

Twilight nods remembering her own vivid visions that she had when she was trapped with Sombra. 

Twilight sighs. “.... well who do I have to ask now about having extra guards for Harmonia’s coordination?” Twilight asked. 

“Oh I think you’ll be extremely excited for who I chose to take my place.” Shining said, giving her a coy smile. 

“Who?” Twilight asked, confused.


***


Shining and Twilight lead to the double doors of the Empire. 

“A lot has changed since you’ve been away.” Shining said. 

“Shining? Do you hate me?” Twilight asked. 

“Of course not! Twilight, you were under the influence of Sombra you couldn’t help that. It’s not your fault.” Shining said, making idly conversation. 

“But it is. I let my emotions get the best of me and let Sombra consume my thoughts, emotions and well being. Even worse…. I hurt the ponies I care about.” Twilight explains. 

“Twilight I know your mind wasn’t in the right place, it was corrupted by Sombra, but you were hurt, angry and upset with what happened in the past. You don’t need to dwell on that now. It’s over. The past is in the past for a reason little sis. Now it’s time to focus on the future. More importantly on Harmonia’s coordination.” Shining said, giving her a soft smile. 

Twilight gave a light scoff. “Your right.” She murmurs. 

“And besides Twily you are already forgiven.” Shining said, giving her a small hug. 

“Thank you Shiny.” Twilight murmurs softly. 


*** 


“So who’s this new guard you decided to take your place?” Twilight asked. 

Shining pushed open the door to the backyard of the Empire. 

“Flurry Heart?!” Twilight looks at her niece in Guard material, shocked was definitely an understatement. 

Shining chuckled. “Yeah, since you’ve been missing; her and Harmonia has been nothing but determined to find you and bring you home.” Shining said. 

Twilight watched as her niece swung the sword above her head with her magic, pinning it at the dummy pony she had as her “enemy”. 

“Wow! She’s really good.” Twilight mutters. 

“She’s been training with Tempest for the past couple of months.” Shining explains. 

“Hold one one second. Flurry! Somepony special is here to see you!” Shining calls out. 

Flurry, who was dripping sweat from her training, looked up from her practice dummy, a wide grin spread across her face as she galloped full speed toward Twilight. 

“Auntie Twilight!” Flurry smiles, giving her a hug. 

“Hello Flurry sweetie. Sweet Celestia you've grown! Looking just as beautiful as your mother.” Twilight said, giving her niece a small smile. 

Flurry gave her a light smile. “Thank you.” She said, putting her sword in her holster. 

“Dad what are you doing here?” Flurry asked. 

“Oh, I had to help direct your aunt to where  you were. She actually had something she needed to ask you.” Shining said. 

Flurry’s eyes shifted from her dad to her Aunt Twilight. 

“Sure. What’s up?” Flurry said. 

“I was gonna ask your Father, but since he’s no longer Captain of the Royal Guards and has passed his responsibilities onto you. I was wondering if you could gather any and all- enough Royal Guards that are for Harmonia’s coordination on the 23rd?” Twilight asked. 

Flurry’s grin widened. “Of course! I would love to help you both out in any way I can! You can count on me.” Flurry said, smiling. 

“Of course.” Twilight said, giving her a small smile. 

She sighs. “Now if you excuse me I have some prerequisites to make before Harmonia’s big day in the next 4 weeks.” Twilight said. 

“But Twilight, that’s 4 weeks away.” Shining said. 

“You obviously don’t know me all too well. Shining you know I like to prepare early.” Twilight said, lightly giggling. 


***

3 weeks later… 

“We are so relieved to have you back Twilight.” Celestia said. Her sister Luna, Starlight and a few of Harmonia's friends were helping set up Harmonia's coordination. 

"It wasn't easy escaping, despite the fact that he, he…" Twilight stared at the banner, looking at the royal family engraving on it, her smile turned into that of a slight frown, her eyes narrowed a bit. 

"Twilight, are you ok?" Luna asked the purple alicorn who was blankly looking at the banner, Twilight shook her head as she felt Luna call her once more. 

"Twilight, is everything alright?" Luna asked, once again slightly concerned for Twilight. However, she smiled back at Luna and replied "Everything is fine! I'm just very shocked to know that my daughter will be the future princess of Equestria!" Twilight giggled nervously, Luna smiled and returned to fixing lavender placements on the windows.

"We're glad to help out Ms. Sparkle! And with this coordination underway, I'm throwing my bestest friend the meanest, most awesome party a friend could ever ask for!" Confetti Pop brought out her mom's party cannon, Tempest immediately kicked the cannon out of the way from instinct, her eyes widened from the sudden adrenaline. 

"Sorry, I had bad memories with that…" Tempest smiled nervously, Confetti Pop beamed. 

"That's alright! I'm sorry if I-" Confetti was about to finish but Tempest helped her fix the party cannon.

 "No, don't apologize, let me help you with this." Tempest insisted, Confetti beamed and pushed the cannon to the side as an effect for Harmonia's coordination. 

Twilight smiles at the sight, but her smile turns into a serious look, and walks away, Starlight notices the alicorn leave. "Twilight, where are you going?" Starlight asks, 
Twilight looks back at Starlight with a soft smile. 

"I'm just gonna check on Harmonia, maybe she needs something." Twilight looks back to the main door and leaves.

 "Somethings off, maybe she's just tired…" Starlight thought to herself as she went back to fixing the tables. 


***


Twilight walks down the hallway of Canterlot, admiring the stain glass windows Celestia had installed over the years some of them included defeats that her and her friends made over the years, such as finding the Elements of Harmony when they were first rediscovered by Twilight and her friends, the defeat of Nightmare Moon, Discord, Sombra, Chrysalis. 

Twilight narrowed her eyes at the image of Chrysalis, she let out a small smile, her eyes soft as she stared at the image. "At least I feel remembered." Twilight spoke with a mocking tone in her voice, she trots down the hallways once more, looking at the statue's of the Royal Sisters. 

Twilight stops as she notices two armor stands that held the armor of the two sisters that has seen battle over the years, Twilight went near the display, admiring the golden outline of Celestia's armor, the silver platings that protected the torso, the helmet that protected both horn and head, the back armor that protected the wings alongside the hoof armor that has the sun engraving on them. 

"Equestrian armor, fairly tough to pierce." Twilight examined Luna's armor, same design set as Celestia's, the color of the plating was midnight purple, with a touch of indigo on the outlines, Twilight looks on the side of the stand only to find a Longsword and a Halberd, she nears the two weapons, observing the edges of the blades, she smirks as she touches the sharp tip of the Halberd. 

"This could potentially kill a pony, they better hide these somewhere else." Twilight states as she looks onto Luna's Longsword, the broadness of the blade and the engraving of the moon was more than enough to scare a warrior. Twilight thought to herself. "Fine warriors of "our" time." Twilight says in a sarcastic tone.

"Is that sass I hear?" Luna interjects, Twilight jumps from the sudden appearance of Luna, her eyes widened. 

"I’m sorry princess! I just wish I had-" Luna cuts Twilight off with a smile. 

"You wish you had armor like this? Twilight, our smiths made these a thousand years ago. Not many have been made since our time. Only now our blacksmith makes guard armor for both of our guards.” Luna trots to Twilight, looking at the armor stand, Twilight steps aside to let Luna come through. 

"So, where did you guys wear this?" Twilight questions the alicorn, Luna sighs. 

"The battle of the Crystal Empire. Me and Celestia wore these heavy plates of metal as one of the deadliest wars of Equestria were underway." Luna states, staring at her own armor, she levitates her Longsword staring at the blade. "I almost had Sombra with this sword during that battle, he just…" Luna grits her teeth, Twilight places a hoof on Luna's shoulder, smiling at her. 

"Hey, it's all over now, Sombra is no more." Twilight states, Luna looks over at Twilight, her right eyebrow raised. 

"No more? What did you do?" Luna asks, her tone laced with confusion and worry. "I had him under a stasis spell, and imprisoned him in his castle, it was my moment to escape, and…"

Luna smiled at Twilight. "Yet here you are, safe and sound." Luna wraps Twilight into a hug, she hugs back, nuzzling Luna's coat. "I'm sorry for being…" Twilight sniffles, Luna's eyes widened as she heard Twilight sniffle, she immediately rubbed Twilight's back, Twilight couldn't help but cry a little. 

"None of this pain would have existed if i-" Twilight was cut off by Luna once more.

 "You have no fault in this, we are all glad that you're back! You're safe Twilight, he's not coming back." Luna states, Twilight smiles from the statement, wiping her tears. 

"I'm just happy to be here…" Twilight mumbles, Luna chuckles as she embraced Twilight once more. "We're happy to have you back, Harmonia really misses you, if you're looking for her she's at the courtyard with Flurry." 

Twilight cocks her head to the side. "Why?" Twilight questions, Luna nods as she trots past Twilight. "Well she’s currently discussing with her about the upcoming coronation next week. Guess she needed advice from a younger princess’s perspective.” Luna giggles nervously, Twilight chuckles. 

"I'll see you later, we have a lot to talk about." Luna says as she leaves, Twilight nods and trots out of the corridor headed to the main hall of the castle.


***


The mid-spring air softly through the girls mane, they both sat in comfortable silence as the young draconequus tried to gather her thoughts. 

“So what’s on your mind Harmony?” Flurry asks. 

“Everything has fallen into place right? I mean everypony happy. My mom’s back that’s more than I can ask for right? But why do I get this feeling that something's missing?” Harmonia asks, rambling. 

“Could it be your dad? Maybe that could be the missing feeling.” Flurry suggests. 

“No… it isn’t that. He apologized to me at the Welcome Home party for mom and of course I accepted I mean he is coming to my coordination tomorrow and I’m more than happy about it. But everything is at peace, nothing to really worry about.” Harmonia continues to ramble. “I’m finally at peace with my life. I feel content even… sort of ... maybe?” 

“Flur is this really how my life is going to be like from here on out? Boring and filled with Princess duties?” Harmonia looks at her cousin, a glint of very little hope shone in her eyes. 

Harmonia sighs, as she picks up a dandelion softly blowing its seeds into the wind.

“Of course not! Besides they will be down time for you, hopefully. But you can also find a way to have fun and rule as Equestria’s newest Princess at the same time. I mean sure you’re the Lord of Chaos daughter, but you’re also a part of your mother's genetics as well. You’re smart! You’ll figure out a way to balance work and play.” Flurry explains smiling at her. 

“But what if I don’t? What if I screw up? Especially at my coordination? I’ll be the laughing stock of all of Equestria!” Harmonia said, her tone laced with worry.

“And I thought Aunt Twilight was the Princess of Freakouts.” Flurry thought. She then looks at Harmonia with a calm expression. 

Harmonia looks at her slightly bewildered. “How can you be so calm about all of this?!” She asked. 

Flurry giggled at her cousin. “Harmony, you’ve faced much bigger challenges than this. This coronation will be much easier! If you can face off timberwolves, a hydra, the fact that neither parent was in your life for almost a decade….. I shouldn’t have said that.” Flurry said her eyes widened. 

“No it’s okay I’m used to it by now.” Harmonia said, giving her a soft smile. 

Flurry let out a breath of relief. “Good. Then Harmonia you can definitely take on this coronation tomorrow.” She said, smiling at her. 

Harmonia's head began to throb, she squeezed her eyes shut for a moment. When she opened her eyes she came face to face with Flurry. “Harmonia are you okay?” She asked, concerned. 

“Yeah, I just have a small headache coming on, but I’ll be okay don’t worry.” Harmonia said, giving her a small smile. 

Tempest looks out into the Harmonia’s balcony. “Harmonia! Could you come here for a few? Your mother needs to speak with you.” Tempest asks. 

“Of course! Thanks for listening to me Flur. And for the advice.” Harmonia said as she gave a gentle hug to her cousin before snapping her claw and disappearing. 


*** 


Harmonia walks the hallway being greeted by loads of armed ponies and guards. 

“Extra protection for tomorrow’s big day.” Mutters Tempest as if she knew what Harmonia was thinking. 

"Now, as Princess your not only representing yourself and your dad and I, but all of Equestria tomorrow." Twilight explains. 

I know mom, but Don’t worry won’t let you down. But while we’re on the whole Princess coordination thingy I mean, not that I’m not excited about getting crowned, but do you think that I might be able to have any free time? Like at all..." Harmonia asked

"I know this is all new to you, but you’ll adjust soon. I promise." Twilight said, smiling at her. 

Twilight kisses the top of Harmonia’s forehead. “Now go and make us proud tomorrow.” Twilight said, Harmonia wraps her mother into a tight hug. 

“You won’t be disappointed.” Harmonia said, giving her mom a soft smile. 

“I know I won’t.” Twilight then turns to leave. 

Leaving Harmonia alone with her thoughts. Harmonia looks at herself in the mirror.

 “Okay, no pressure. Just introducing myself to all of Equestria tomorrow, no biggie right? Representing my mom, dad and all of Equestria. We got this.” Harmonia said, giving herself a pep talk before leaving the room. 
> Chapter 25: Coronation Day (Part 1)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Later That Night….

Cadence wakes up in the middle of the night and yawns as she stretches out her wings, she rubs her eyes and looks to her grandfather clock, the time was it 1:34 in the morning, she groans in annoyance realizing she woke up early, as she was about to sleep she notices a feint red ray light shining through the window.

"Whats this?" Cadence slowly approaches the red ray of light with caution, she looks at the window, the red source is blurry and distorted from the window's design, she looks to her balcony doors and notices a large amount of red rays shining through the windows of the door. 

"Is this some kind of prank from Celestia and Luna? Because now's not the perfect time!" She exclaims to herself, Cadence approaches the door and looked at the door knob, she hesitantly pushed the door open with her magic for a bit, but mustered it up quickly, she fully opens the door, revealing a blood moon in the sky, and looking down at her own tower, was a battle scorned Crystal Empire. 

"What in Equestria..." Cadence was unable to finish her sentence as she was shocked, it happened all too fast without her knowing that there would be an imminent attack, was this an inside job? Or was there war that Cadence knew nothing of? She looked down at the chaos that had unravel before her, seeing ponies run for the lives, families bunched up together from the dark creatures infesting the broken buildings and streets, the royal guard tried to fight back the darklings to no avail, the rest of the guards managed to evacuate the ponies to the gates, many ponies screamed in panic and terror as large shadowy tendrils dragged some ponies to the building ruins, this was no war, it was a nightmare. 

"This can't be happening, we had a peace treaty! And everything was so fine earlier!" She tears up, seeing her empire fall bit by bit, she hears a scream from outside her room. "FLURRY HEART! SHINING!" She runs out of the balcony and heads to her bedroom door, as she is about to swing the door open, the door breaks and a body of the royal guard is thrown into the corner of the room, Cadence is shocked, unable to move.

Her eyes widened as she saw a creature on her door, growling in a predatory way, a darkling with sharp teeth and tendrils coming out of it was slowly going in the room. "Get back..." Cadence tells the creature, but to no response, without hesitation the creature lunged for Cadence, she screams as she fires her magic at the darkling, as she slowly opens her eyes she sees the creature lying down on the ground, slowly disappearing, without any hesitation she rushes out of her room and she headed for the atrium of the castle, on her way there she sees a lot of bodies, which only increased Cadence's fear, her cheeks were streaming with tears as she sobs whilst rushing to the doors.

As Cadence swings the large wooden doors open slowly she sees an alicorn with a longsword, and below her were two dead bodies that were once Flurry Heart and Shining. "NO!" she yells, tears streaming down faster now, she sobs as she rushes towards the figure and her two dead loved ones. "Don't worry, you'll join them too..." the figure spoke, as the atrium lights opened Cadence stopped rushing as she looked at the killer, it was no other than Twilight.

"Twilight..." Cadence stops, fear passing through her veins, Twilight approaches slowly and Cadence backed away, the atrium doors were closed and locked by shadowy dark tendrils, tendrils come out of the ground and wrap Cadence in a cocoon form, leaving her head exposed. "Twilight stop..." She pleads, Twilight cant help but smile, she drags the blade on the ground, scaring Cadence.

"PLEASE TWILIGHT!" She now yells at Twilight, Cadence struggles to escape as she looks at Twilight getting closer, her eyes widened as she sees the sword headed to her, the blade aimed for Cadence's horn, the blade chipped the tip off of Cadence's horn, she screams in pain. 

"What's wrong Cadence, feeling a little powerless?" Twilight teases as she finally goes face to face with Cadence, Cadence can't help but cry, looking at her two loved ones. "You really raised me well, to become independent, to become stronger, and here I am now..." Twilight teases more, as she places the blade under Cadence's chin, forcing her to look at Twilight. "But you know, i like being bad." She says as she readies for a hard swing, Cadence's eyes widened. "It makes me happy.”

And with that, Cadence screams, as Twilight swings her blade at Cadence's head, decapitating her fully.

***


Cadence wakes up in a cold sweat, as she just stares at the darknesses of the room she and Shining were staying in at Canterlot with Celestia and Luna, she looks over to her husband who was sleeping peacefully. 

She lets out a soft, but raggedy breath. She tries to control her breath as she looks over at the clock: 4:35 in the morning, Celestia’s sun has yet to rise. 

She throws her head back onto the coolness of the pillow staring at the ceiling, before a second thought comes to mind, she eases out of bed, not to wake her husband. 

She makes her way down the quiet peaceful hallway unable to sleep in fear that she was going to have that nightmare again, but what if it wasn’t a nightmare at all? 

Candace opens the door to the room both Flurry Heart and Crystal were sharing within the castle. 

She lets out another shallow breath, “Better get to bed, don’t want to be too tired for Harmonia‘s coordination tomorrow.” She thought. Cadence gives a light hearted smile to the girls before closing the door and returning to bed. 


***

April 23rd… 

“I’m so happy for you Harmony! You’re finally becoming crowned Princess today. You deserve it.” Flurry beams at her cousin. 

“Thanks Flur. I’m just a little nervous.” Harmonia said, pushing a strand of hair out of her face. 

“Oh, Harmony, don't worry. We're in this together, right?” Flurry asked, giving her cousin a small smile. 

“You're right. I like that. Now, where is everypony? Shouldn’t they be here by now?” Harmonia asked. 

“Maybe you should go check. I’ll meet with you in a few.” Flurry said, before leaving. 

“Good idea!” Harmonia beams. 

Harmonia walks out to her balcony, looking out noticing the plains before her, she smiled to herself knowing that in just a few hours she would be the newest crowned Princess of Equestria. 

Something sharp pierced in Harmonia causing her pain she couldn’t shake. She groans in agony for a mere second. “Ah!” 

HoneyCrisp, who heard the sound came galloping through. “Harmonia!” She asked, her tone laced with concern for her friend. 

“I feel funny.” Harmonia thought.  

“Are you okay? Let me help you.” HoneyCrisp said, kindly helping her friend with assistance. 

“Thanks, Honey. I'm okay.” Harmonia said, smiling to her friend. 

“You sure? Let's get you some water.” HoneyCrisp said. 


***


“What have we missed?” Harmonia asked, as she looked around the room to be surrounded by all of her girl friends. 

“You’re just in time. We are going dress shopping!” Ophelia beams. 

“Well what are we waiting for! Let’s go!” Squeals Confetti. 

“Hold up girls! I just received a letter from Celestia.” Spike said entering the room. 

“What does it say?” HoneyCrisp wonders. 

Spike glances at the letter then looks at his niece, Harmonia. “It says your coordination is postponed for a later date.” 

“What do you mean my coordination is postponed?” Harmonia asks, looking at the scroll that Spike was holding. 

Spike scanned over the letter. “It doesn’t say, kiddo.” He said, looking back over the letter once more. 

“I have waited for my whole life, correction- make that 14 ½ years of my whole life for my coordination to happen and now it is getting postponed without any explanation as to why.” Harmonia rants. 

Spike looked at her with a sad expression. “I’m sorry, Harmonia I know your day was supposed to be special today.” Sadness was hinted in the dragon’s voice. 

“Oh there is no need to be sorry. Because we are going to have my coordination one way or another, all of Equestria is going to be there! And I am not letting all of Mom and Aunt Starlight’s hard work go to waste!” Harmonia said, her tone rather determined and bold. 

“But Celestia said-” Spike said, trying his best to reason with the young draconequus, but sadly she wasn’t taking no for an answer. 

“We are having my coordination today and that’s final!” Harmonia stomped her hoof to the ground, her voice rather stern. 

Spike sighed, knowing that there was no way he could talk her out of this now. “You are your mother’s daughter, alright. You both can be stubborn as mules sometimes.” 

Harmonia giggles. “Now we have less than ten hours before my coordination begins! And I need to find the perfect dress before my coordination.”

“Why not ask Rarity to make you one? She is a fashion designer after all.” Spike said. 

“Eh, I'll see what they have at one of the local shops. Maybe I can ask the girls if they would like to join.” Harmonia said, thinking out loud. 

“Alright! Just be back before two fifteen.” Spike calls out. 

Harmonia nods and poofs out of the room, with her friends in tow. 


***


The door to the shop of the clothing store tingled as the girls entered the store. “Welcome to Thread & Mend! Clothes here are a trend!” A zebra of black and white stripes, comes out from around the corner. 

“Ah! You must be the Harmonia, the daughter of the royal family, what brings you here my little peculiarity?.” Zecora asks, her tone rather pleased to see the young draconequus.

“Zecora? My mother has told me about you, but if you do herbs and special treatments, then why are you running a clothing shop in Everfree Forest?” Harmonia asks. 

“Yes, in a place where hardly anypony knows, or thus the saying goes.” Ophelia interjects with a rhyme, Zecora chuckles.

“I think this little pink mare can put your jumbling questions at ease, now come and let us find your piece.” Zecora said walking over to the racks, she stops to give Confetti a soft smile, Confetti beams. 

Everyone turned to look at the mare. 

“How did you even know about this shop anyways, Confetti Pop?” Honey Crisp asks, the pink earth pony. 

“I actually met her daughter, Zillia a few weeks back! They are the ones who told me about this shop and suggested that I visit.” Confetti Pop beams. 

“Well where are they now?” Harmonia wonders. 

“Oh! She is around here somewhere. I assure you, she is a feisty one too.” Zecora said, walking down an aisle of dresses. 

The girls follow. “No wonder nopony isn't wearing anything.” Ophelia said, in a rather hushed tone. 

“Sh! Ophelia, that's rude of you.” Honey Crisp said, her tone rather quiet. 

“Well it's the truth, darling.” She mutters. 

Harmonia and the girls eye the row of tribal printed dresses and skirts. 

“Your style is very…. Unique, Mrs. Zecora.” Ophelia said, trying her best to stay positive. 

“I see that you are busy, please just walk over to the register once you are ready.” Zecora said, with that she walked away.

Harmonia sighs, quietly looking at her options. Ophelia notices the troublesome look held on the draconequus, and walks over to her. 

She lays a sympathetic paw on her friend's shoulder. “Darling, are you okay?” She asks, her tone gentle. 

“I'm fine…. I'm just thinking about my coordination that is in a few hours. I just feel like once I'm crowned, what if I am a terrible princess? I mean I may be The Princess of Friendship’s daughter, but I also belong to the Lord of Chaos. I mean what if I get nervous and freeze up during my speech?” Harmonia said, ranting to the feline. 

Ophelia just smiles at her, her tone gentle. “You won't. I'm going to tell you something that my mother told me awhile back whenever I was feeling scared or nervous. I may be the Element of Generosity, but that doesn't mean I have to be generous to everyone and I may be the daughter of a con-cat, but that doesn't mean I flirt and con with everyone I see.” 

“But you just conned me out of my bits three weeks ago.” Harmonia mutters, making a blunt statement. Her tone is rather small and innocent like. 

Ophelia sighs and rolls her eyes. “That's not the point here. The point is you may have both parents genes within you, but that doesn't always mean you have to follow in either of their hooves steps. You can make your own path, but whatever path you choose is up to you.” 

Harmonia then smiles at her friend. “Thanks for the advice, Lia.” 

“Anytime.” Ophelia said. 

Ophelia and Harmonia gazed at the display before them. “You know, my mother is a fashion designer. I'm sure she has something more in your style.” Ophelia said, her paws ran across the fabric and she looked back at Harmonia.  

“Are you sure she wouldn't mind? I mean it being last minute and all.” Harmonia said, her tone bashful. 

“I'm sure she wouldn't mind! She works well under pressure….. I think.” Ophelia said. 

Zecora walks over to the draconequus and feline. “If you two have found something you like, go ahead, it wont bite.” she said, looking at the two. 

Harmonia and Ophelia both look at each other, wondering how to tell the zebra that they weren't really impressed with what they saw all that much. 

“Your dresses are very…” Ophelia said, trying to figure out the right word to say.

“Distinctive!” Harmonia said, thinking of a word on the spot. 

“Yes! Distinctive.” Ophelia said. 

“But, what?” Zecora said, her brow arched. 

The girls remained quiet. “If this isn't within your liking, child. You can always go to Rarity who is always in style.” Zecora said, giving them a small smile. 

“Are you sure?” Harmonia asks, fearing that she may have hurt the zebra's feelings. 

“Of course! Now go.” Zecora said. 


***


“My mom is currently at her Boutique in Manehattan.” Ophelia said.

“Well, we can teleport there!” Harmonia said she was about to snap her paw, when Honey Crisp stopped her. 

“Wait. don’t you think we would end up in another place like for example: The Dragon Lands? Remember when you accidentally teleported Confetti Pop to Yakyakistan?” Honey Crisp said, slightly nervous by her friend’s magical capability. 

“Yeah that was super fun!” Confetti Pop beams. 

“And that was five years ago when that happened, I was trying to teleport her to Sugar Cube Corner. Besides, I've gotten better with my magic.” Harmonia explains. “Now come on we are burning daylight.” 

“It’s only 11:30.” HoneyCrisp said. 

“What are you? A clock?” Harmonia said, her tone was humorous. She snaps her paw, teleporting herself and the girls inside Rarity’s boutique. 

A bright flash illuminates inside of Rarity’s store. “See I told you! You were worried for nothing.” Confetti said. 

Rarity was taking orders from a customer. The girls watched as she greeted the customer goodbye. “Thank you for shopping at Rarity 4 You! Please come again.” she said. 

She then turned back to attend to her business, she closed her eyes humming a tune to herself as she sewed a few details on a dress she was making. 

Rarity was known for her daughter's sneak attacks, so she even knew when Ophelia was in the room- or as Rarity liked to call it “have eyes in the back of her head”. 

“Hello, Ophelia dear.” She went back to humming, but stopped short after what she just said. She turned around and noticed that her daughter was not alone. “W-what are you girls doing here?” She asks, her tone in disbelief. 

“Dress shopping!” Beams Confetti Pop.

“Aunt Rarity, do you think you could make me a dress for my coordination?” Harmonia asks. 

“We went to Zecora’s, a shop that she recently started and all of her dresses were too triable looking.” Ophelia explained. 

“A dress? You came all the way to Manehattan for a dress.” Rarity said, her tone unamusing. 

“Uh… yes?” Harmonia said, slightly confused by her aunt’s change in tone.

Rarity’s face lit up with amusement. “Well why didn’t you come to me sooner, darling? But it’s funny that you just mentioned a dress, I actually have plenty here that you can choose from. Go find one that you like.” 

Rarity ushers her niece off to a changing room, giving her various dresses to try on. 

The first one was yellow with gold trim around the waistline and at the end of the dress, the sleeves were poofy and see through, the whole dress glittered and sparkled. Her mane was in an elegant bun. 

“Too yellow.” Ophelia said. 

“Plus you look like you belong in a fairytale called Beauty and The Beast.” Confetti Pop said.

The girls look at her in confusion. “Confetti… whatever are you going on about?” Honey Crisp asked. 

Confetti Pop blinked. “Whoops, wrong fairytale.” she said, her tone giggly. 

Harmonia decided not to question her quirky friend's antics and went back into the changing room, only to reappear in another dress. 

The second dress was an icy blue, a long train that was translucent and see through the dresses silky exterior and the sleeves were long and see through. Her mane was in a fishtail braid. 

Confetti Pop giggled. “Are you ready to let it go at your coordination ceremony tonight? Or are you going to keep giving me the icy look?” Confetti Pop continues to giggle at her own joke. 

Harmonia rolled her eyes. “You know if you weren't my best friend and if looks could kill you would be frozen by now.” Harmonia said, slightly playing on to Confetti Pop’s little game. 

Confetti giggles. “Good one, Harmony.” 

Harmonia sighs and goes back into the changing room trying on the third dress. “Uh… I don’t think this is a dress.” Harmonia said, carefully coming out of the dressing room. 

She was in a pair of baggy baby blue genie-like pants and a top, its sleeves short and halfway off her shoulder. Her mane in a bubble braid, her mane held a headpiece at the top. 

“Uhh….” Harmonia said, slightly speechless. 

“Hey, at least you look like a genie.” Confetti Pop giggles. 

“Are you going to do that everytime she tries on a new dress?” Ophelia asks, slightly annoyed. 

“Well I can’t help it if the author/director is a Disney fan.” Confetti said, still giggling. 

“You know what I’m just going to pretend what you just said made sense.” Ophelia said, her tone deadpanned. 

Harmonia takes off the outfit, with a snap of her paw. “This is hopeless.” Harmonia mutters, slouching a bit. 

Rarity walks over to the girls. “I can’t help, but see that you are having a bit of trouble finding the dress of your dreams, but I actually just finished this dress and I think you will like what you see.” Rarity hands over a black bag with the hanger sticking out of the top was a hanger. 

Harmonia grabs the dress and goes back inside, she emerges once again. This time in a beautiful dress of silver, light grey, tone of sparkles creating an ombre effect. The dress was simply beautiful! Her mane remained straightened. 

“Aunt Rarity! This dress is simply beautiful!” Harmonia said. 

“Doesn’t Harmony look pretty Ophelia?” Confetti Pop questions. 

The feline looks up from her magazine to gaze at the draconequus. Her eyes widened, and her cheeks held a slight tint of pink. “Harmonia, darling you look gorgeous!” She said, slightly baffled by her best friend’s appearance.

“T-thank you.” The draconequus said, her tone slightly nervous. 

“This dress was practically made for you!” Honey Crisp said. 

“That's because I did make it for her.” Rarity said, giving a soft smile to the girls.

Harmonia hugs her aunt's neck. “Thank you!” Harmonia said. 

“I will meet you all at the coordination! Now go!” Rarity said, her tone was filled with excitement. 

The girls hurry out the door, but Rarity calls back for Harmonia.“Oh! And Harmonia!” she said. 

Harmonia pops back in for a moment. “Yes Aunt Rarity?” She asks. 

She envelopes her niece into a tight hug, sharing a moment of silence before Rarity softly whispers into her ear. “I am so proud of you.” She said, in a tone so motherly and sincere it made Harmonia tear up just a bit. 

“Thank you.” She whispers. 


***

Before the Coordination began it was a tradition that royals or upcoming royals must dance with the soon to be crowned Princess of Equestria. 

And for Harmonia's case she had a choice between Tiberius, Amaris and Illusion who she had to dance with, however she secretly wished it was Ophelia, but she would take what she could get at the moment. 

“Are you ready to show these snobby Canterlot royals how it’s done?” Illusion asked. 

Harmonia gave Illusion a soft smile and nod, as they both took to the dance floor and glided gracefully across the floor, as elegant music played throughout the throne room. 

“Equestria is very lucky to have a beautiful young heir to The Princess of Friendship and Chaos throne.” Said one of the subjects. 

“Indeed! I can’t believe she is of age to finally be crowned.” Said another. 

“This is all so romantic!” Flurry Heart swoons from afar. 

“Psh! You like anything that involves romance.” Crystal gags. 

Flurry lightly giggles at her sister’s light bantering. 

From afar someone had their eyes on the royals. 

Once the graceful music ended, the nobles and Harmonia’s family and friends clapped for her. “Way to go Harmony!” Squeal Confetti. 

Harmonia gave a faint smile as Illusion began to talk. “Thank you everypony for coming to Crowned Princess Harmonia Coordination today!” 

Harmonia then gasped and groaned in pain as soon as Illusion finished his speech. Everyone in the Canterlot ballroom gasped at what they had just witnessed. “Harmonia! Harmonia, are you okay?” Illusion asked. 

Harmonia groaned in response. 

“Oh, what a pity. Somepony is just not herself these days. Perfect.” Said a cunning voice. 


*** 


Flurry Heart was the next to walk over to her. “Harmonia? Harmonia, can you hear me? Everything's gonna be okay. I'm right here.” She soothes. 

“Oh, Flur…” Harmonia groans. 

“Flurry, what’s wrong with her?” Illusion questions. 

Harmonia groans. 

Flurry looks at Harmonia before returning her gaze to Illusion. “I’m not an expert on Harmonia’s kind… However Aunt Twilight and Discord may know what’s wrong with her.” Flurry explains. 

“Illusion go find Discord or Aunt Twilight and let them- huh?” Flurry snaps her attention to the sound of a mare screaming. 

“Somehow, I don't think they were on the guest list.” Ophelia said, charging her horn. 

“What are they?” Honey Crisp questions. 

“Shadow Eaters/ Shadow formations. They're part of an old Crystal Empire legend.” Flurry Heart explains. 

“Stay away from her.” Illusion sneers, as he ignites his horn. 

Flurry suddenly remembered her dream she had. “Illusion, hurry. You've got to get Harmonia out of here now! And don’t let them get near her!” She warned. 

Illusion began to leave the throne room with Harmonia held in his magical grip. 


***

“Stop!” yells an unfamiliar voice. 
 
“Huh? Who are you? Mystic who is this?” Illusion questions. 

“Where are you going?” Mystic questions. 

“Let us go ahead Mystic!” Illusion said. 

“The Shadows took the whole area of the north area of the palace. The Realm of Chaos is the only place where Harmonia can restore her power.” Mystic explains. 

“I don’t believe you! How do you know the Realm of Chaos? You would never help Harmonia. Now get out of our way!” Illusion warns. 

The Shadow Eater approaches Illusion, striking Illusion causing Illusion to hit the ground with a thud and making him go out cold. 

The young mare beside Mystic smirks. “She’s all yours.” Mystic said. 


***


“Some guests never get the hint where it is time to leave.” Rarity Said, firing her horn. 

“Their extreme debility is legendary.” Shining warns, firing his horn at multiples. 

“Oh great. Let's skip to the part where you tell us how to beat them.” Rainbow Dash said, dodging the black wisps. 

“I don’t exactly remember the legends about it, just bits and pieces of it.” Shining said. 

“I do! Legends said that only the power of the Realm of Chaos can defeat them. Which in turn is Chaos light… weird I know, but the only one who knows about that realm is Discord himself.” Flurry said, blasting the shadows. 

“You ranged?” Discord asked, appearing. 

“Whoa! What’s going on here?” Discord question, but before Flurry could answer, Illusion hurries through the destruction. 

“Flurry Heart! Harmonia in danger.” Illusion shouts. 

“What? Where is she?” She asked. 

“I think Mystic and one of the visitors are taking Harmonia to the Realm right now.” Illusion explains. 

“Historically, the Realm is a magical place to test Chaos magic!” Discord explains. 

“Well Harmonia does love tests so that doesn't sound so bad.” Cotton Berry said. 

“But after so many centuries the power of the Realm has grown uncontrollable. And even if you do have Chaos magic the Realm will block it out.” Discord said. 

“And Harmonia is too weak to handle it.” Flurry Heart explains 

“That can't be good!” Honey Crisp said. 

“Illusion, we got these shadows. You and Discord go after Harmonia.” Flurry instructed. 

Discord and Illusion go to find Harmonia. 


***


“Here we are, isn't it breathtaking? Now, just place Harmonia right into the Realm of Chaos, the rest will take care of itself.” The visitor explains. 

“In there? Are you sure?” Mystic questions. 

“She's a magical being of chaos. Therefore chaos is good for her. Isn't that complicated?” Mystic’s friend stated. 

Mystic look into the Realm. 

“Huh?” Mystic said, maybe second guessing her decision. 

“Well you want her to get her powers back, don't you?” Her friend asked. 

”Mystic, no!” Illusion yelled out. 

“Huh!” Mystic said, she turned to see her brother and Discord, along with Flurry Heart. 

“Don't do it, Mystic! Don't listen to her!” Flurry Heart warns. 

“You are one wicked mare.” Discord said eyeing the small dark purple alicorn. 

“This is me on a good day.” The alicorn said. She begins to attack Illusion and he falls along with Harmonia. 

“No!” Discord yells. 

“Daddy…!” Harmonia calls out her tone weak

The mare uses another spell to carry Harmonia. 

“What are you doing?!” Discord sneered. 

The mare laughs, her laugh cunning and sinister. 

“Don't you dare!” Illusion warns. 

“Give it up, dear brother, you're too good for her anyway!” Mystic said. 

“You give it up Mystic! Quit always thinking you're better than Harmonia! You know I love Harmonia.” Illusion confesses. 

“Well, I hope you can deal with this then…” The young alicorn laughs as she dropped Harmonia. 

“Harmonia!” Illusion said. He tries to catch Harmonia with his magic, but fails. 

Without warning Discord reaches out a claw and grabs Illusion. “Got you!” He said. 

“There is nothing you can do now!” The mare smirks. 

“No!!!” Flurry yells, charging her horn. 

“Uh oh, what shall I do?” The mare's tone leaked with sarcasm. Flurry attacks the mare and Mystic but both of them disappeared. 

“Where did she go? Where did they go?” Flurry asked. 


***


Mystic and her friend teleport right outside the castle, landing near the royal gardens, Mystic looks at the castle and back at her friend who was currently wiping off any dust off of her mane. "So, we did what we could, now what?" Mystic asks her friend who ignored her.

Mystic raises an eyebrow in confusion to why her friend was ignoring her, she goes near but her friend starts to talk. "Now that i have that out of the way, i still have a lot of loose ends to tie up." Stormy said, fluffing her wings, Mystic backs up slowly, unsure of her friends intentions, her friend looks back at Mystic, with a smile.

"Why are you looking at me like that..?" Mystic asks, but her friend ignores it once more and goes near her. "I think it's time I tied that first loose end." her friend states in a dark manner, Mystic's eyes widened from the statement she heard from her friend. 

Her friend summons a sword with her alicorn magic and without hesitation her friend aims the blade towards Mystic whose eyes were welling with tears. "W-what's going on!" Mystic asks in a fearful tone, her friend laughs in a menacing way. "Can't you see magic for brains? I don't need you!" her friend laughs, Mystic sniffles.

 "You, you used me?" Mystic chokes out tears falling fast, her friend tries to stop her laughter, but Mystic backs away slowly. 

"What? You think you'll have friends who'll respect you the way you treat them?" Her friend asks, still chuckling, Mystic looks down full of guilt. "Oh, what's wrong? Cat got your tongue?" her friend laughs from her own sarcasm, Mystic begins to break down, covering her ears. 

"Oh boo-hoo, so sad, no wonder your mother and your brother treat you that way, you good for nothing user, don't worry, once this is all over I can begin with the rest of my plans." Her friend states with confidence, she then brings the sword up to Mystic's head, Mystic looks infront of her only to be met by a blade, her friend smiles. "Thank you for helping me, but you do know that all pawns are to be killed off after right?" her friend states, Mystic's breathing becomes faster, sweat and tears going to the ground.

"But don't worry." Without hesitation, Mystic's friend flips the sword backwards, bashing Mystic with the hilt of the sword, knocking her out in the process, Mystic lands on the grass, a bruise was starting to form on her forehead after the bash. "Now if you excuse me, I have a coordination to crash..." Mystic's friend states as she heads back to the castle, leaving Mystic out cold on the royal gardens.

Mystic woken from her comatose state twenty minutes after the alicorn left. “Maybe Mom was right after all…” Mystic mutters to herself. 


***


Starlight burst through the coordination doors. “Woah! What is going on here?! Where’s Harmony?” She wonders, avoiding the commotion that was happening before her. 

“Oh hey Starlight! Yeah so Illusion took Harmonia to the Realm and- whoa!” Confetti said.

“What Realm Confetti?” Starlight questions. 

“The Realm of Chaos.” Prism states. 

“.... but that only exists in Dad’s Realm! The only one that exists underground here is an Abyss.” Tiberius shouts from somewhere in the room. 

Starlight’s eyes widened, before racing out of the room. 


***


She made it to the Realm that Tiberius mentioned. “Maybe I’m not too late.” Starlight thought as she charged her horn. 

“Starlight? What are you doing here?” Illusion asked.

“That Realm is actually an Abyss.” Starlight explains. 

“So that mare lied to Mystic.” Illusion said. 

“What mare? Ugh! It doesn’t matter! Let’s just get Harmonia out there.” Starlight said as she focused on her spell. 

With her spell in mind, Starlight manages to pull Harmonia out of the Abyss. 

The young draqoncuss lay there unconscious. “Harmonia? Can you hear me?” Starlight asked, her tone worried.

“Ugh! Is- is the Coordination over with?” She mumbles. 

“Maybe we should postpone it. You’re not looking too good.” Starlight said. She puts a hoof on Harmonia's forehead. 

“We are not postponing. I’m fine, see?” Harmonia said, she snapped her claws and a flower crown appeared on Starlight’s head. 

Starlight however was still worried for her. “Are you sure?” Her tone remained skeptical and cautious. 

Harmonia gave her a reassuring smile. “Besides, like Celestia said: Equestria needs it’s newest heir.” 

Starlight sighs. “Okay then… let’s go and get you crowned.” Starlight said, helping her niece up. 
> Chapter 26: Coronation Day (Part 2)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the coordination went under way, Phoenix couldn't help but think why Twilight was acting so weird lately, surely there were many reasons to this, maybe Twilight was so tired from all the work she put into fixing the coordination, or Twilight was still affected by what happened to her with Sombra, or Twilight was just being her usual ignorant and stressful self, however Phoenix couldn't piece it right.

“There’s something fishy going on here, and I’m not liking it one bit.” Phoenix said, her eyes narrowed in Twilight. 

"I mean,  from my mom’s sources that I heard that Princess Twilight is always nice, now she seems to be a bit aggressive?" Phoenix thought to herself about it, she looked at Twilight who was now barking orders at the guards to fix the invitations on the other entrance, Phoenix cringed.

 "Yeah, something is definitely wrong…" She thought, she then keeps an eye on Twilight as she walks away from the guards who were setting up security checkpoints, until. 

“Hey Phoenix!” Confetti Pop beams. 

 Phoenix, who was startled jumps up, hitting her head against the wall, she groans in pain. "Confetti! What was that for!?" she snaps. 

“Uh, what are you doing?” Jewel asks, eyeing her. Her tone was suspicious of her. 

“Sweet Celestia! Are you trying to give me a heart attack?” Phoenix snaps. 

Jewel rolls her eyes ignoring her question. “Are you spying on Princess Twilight?” Jewel asks, giving her a smirk. 

“No…” Phoenix said, her tone slightly wavering.

“D-Don’t you have somewhere to be?” Phoenix asks, slightly annoyed with Jewel’s presents at the moment. 

Phoenix sighs, and turns back to pay attention to Twilight. 

"The question is, what are you doing here, aren't you supposed to be preparing for the coordination?" Jewel asks, Phoenix giggles nervously.

 "Well yeah I'm just taking a break!" she smiles awkwardly, Confetti giggles.

Jewel arches her brow, not buying her excuse for a bit. “Whatever, just know that you need to be getting ready for the coronation soon, it starts in a few hours.” Jewel said, but Phoenix was half listening to what Jewel was saying. She watched as Starlight was going down the hallway, slightly in a rush. 

“Phoenix are you even listening to me?” Jewel asked. 

“Ye-yeah, look I have to go.” Phoenix said, before hurrying off. 

“Wait where are you going?” Confetti calls out, but Phoenix didn’t reply; she just hurried off leaving Confetti and Jewel to look at each other in confusion. 


*** 


"Starlight!" Phoenix called out, but Starlight didn't respond, she then ran to Starlight as fast as she could. "Starlight! Wait up!" Phoenix calls out again, this time Starlight stops dead in her tracks, and turns around immediately, Phoenix bumps into Starlight's leg, completely tired and dazed.

 "Oh sweetie i'm so sorry!' Starlight said, helping Phoenix up and fixing her mane, Phoenix giggles.

 "It's alright! I just need to ask you something!" Phoenix said she was about to ask Starlight a question but Starlight interjects with a sigh of annoyance. "I'm so sorry Phoenix but I have no time, I need to find Twilight, do you happen to know where she is?" Starlight asks. 

Phoenix sighs. "Last time I saw her she was at the party area, talking to some guards, but do you feel something strange about her though?" Phoenix asks, Starlight immediately leaves Phoenix in search for Twilight. 

"So much for the question, OH I KNOW!" Phoenix leaves the hallway, headed to a corridor to the left. 

"Maybe if I check the Friendship map, I can trace where Princess Twilight keeps going, she's usually not around the castle as she used to, maybe she's colluding with somepony else…" She then opens the big crystal door to reveal 6 throne seats surrounding a big crystal table, where the map of Equestria was shown, she approaches the map carefully and takes notice of some red dots around some locations.

 "Princess Twilight, what have you been up to? You should be with Harmonia." She says as she looks over at the map. 

"She's been to the Crystal Empire, but that place is badly damaged from what I heard, she's been through Manehattan and Fillydelphia?" she questions further. 

"What is she doing?" She asks, until she sees the door kicked open fully, only to see Tempest with her eyes narrowed at her. 

"Miss, you know you are not allowed here correct?" Tempest scolds, Phoenix giggles nervously.

Phoenix gets thrown out, landing with a hard thud, she looks back only to see the door slammed shut. "Princess Twilight sure has a very defensive guard…" she mutters to herself, she then stands up, dusting herself off and looks at the crystal door.

 "I better tell Starlight or somepony about this!" Phoenix then rushes out of the area, and she heads back to the celebration area. 

As Phoenix reaches the celebration area she is met by Kunzite who happens to be standing behind the door, she bumps into Kunzite. "Ow! Watch where you're going!" Kunzite scolds as he rubs his arm, Phoenix gets up, and apologizes. "I am so sorry! I was just in a hurry and-" 

Kunzite laughs, petting the mane of Phoenix. "Hey it's alright, what's wrong?" Kunzite asks. 

"You won't believe me if i told you." She states, Kunzite giggles. 

"Try me." he states boldy. 

“As I said before I believe there is something fishy going on here, and I’m not liking it one bit.” Phoenix said, her eyes narrowed in Twilight. 

 “… What are you talking about?” Kunzite asked. 

Phoenix rolls her eyes. “Shhh… I’m talking about  Princess Twilight. Something’s not right, but I can’t seem to put my finge- er I mean hoof on it.” Phoenix said, clearly forgetting for a moment that she was a pegasus instead of human. 

Kunzite watches as Twilight is hanging up some lavenders that Luna let her borrow for Harmonia coordination. He watches Twilight’s every move, from the way she was interacting with the Princess of the Night, right down to her magical aura, which has always been the same shade of magenta.

 “She looks like regular old Princess Twilight to me.” Kunzite said, his tone blunt. 

“Look, I have my theories and you have yours.” Phoenix said, her tone a tad harsh than attended to be. 

“But I know something is up.” she mutters mostly to herself, however Kunzite still managed to overhear the pegasus.  

"Well, have you noticed that your Aunt Twilight is always aggressive? She keeps yelling at ponies, always barking orders like she owns the state!" Phoenix states. 

"Well she is a princess. They tend to live stressful lives. " Kunzite interjects, but Phoenix shakes her head. 

Phoenix sighes. “Just come with me.” She mutters. 


***


Phoenix and Kunzite enter Twilight's Friendship room, where Twilight's Friendship map stood. 

Phoenix and Kunzite carefully scan the premises before entering. “What are we doing here? You're going to get us caught!” Kunzite said, his tone low and laced with worry. 

“If my hunch is correct and that isn't Princess Twilight then-” Phoenix said, but was cut off by a rather startling voice. 

“What are you two doing here?” Tempest asked.

The pair jumped. “I- uh- we-” Kunzite said, stumbling over his words. 

Phoenix, slightly annoyed by her friend's lack of social skills, rolled her eyes. “Please let us explain.” Phoenix said, her tone rather pleading. 

“Didn’t I kick you out earlier?” Tempest asked. 

“If you ask me you guys need better security.” Phoenix mutters. 

“Nopony is allowed to enter this room, under any circumstances. Unless you are The Princess of Friendship, her daughter or a part of The Element Barriers then I suggest you leave.” Tempest explains, her tone rather strict. 

“But you don't understand-” Phoenix said, but fails to try to communicate with the guard. 

“Leave. Now” Tempest said, her tone rather low and dangerously threatening. 

Tempest takes the pair out of the room, and shuts the door in their faces. 

Phoenix huffs. “That was our only way!  I can't believe Princess Twilight's royal guard kicked us out…. I thought she was friendlier?” the pegasus complains. 

Kunzite thinks to himself for a moment. “That's not the only way, here come with me.” Kunzite said, grabbing the pegasus hoof, helping her off the ground from her slouching position. 

“Where are we going?” Phoenix asks. 

But Kunzite was already ahead of her. “Okay fine! Don't tell me.” She mutters, before taking off to catch up with the dragon. 


***


Starlight looks around the celebration room, only to see ponies fixing the tables and the grand stage in which Harmonia will stand make her speech in front of the masses and the dignitary ponies. "Hey, excuse me have you seen Princess Twilight?" Starlight asks one of the guards who happened to pass by, distributing utensils and napkins to the helpers. 

"She went out through the east wing, just head left and you'll see a corridor." The guard replies, Starlight nods and thanks the guard, she rushed through the east wing her heart pumping from exhaustion, she stops to see Twilight outside the garden, talking to two unknown figures, Starlight raises an eyebrow to this, surely Twilight doesn't have any visitors at this time, especially at night.

"Twilight?" Starlight calls out, Twilight yelps from the call, the two figures hide in the shadows. "Who are you talking to?" Starlight asks as she opens the gate to the garden, Twilight giggles nervously.

 "Oh some dignitary ponies just happen to swoop by ya know!" sweat drops from Twilight's face as she looks at Starlight. 

"Ok? Twilight, is something wrong?" Starlight asks, Twilight's smile turns into a frown slowly, ears flopped down. 

"Hey, talk to me Twi." Starlight calls out once more. "You're not yourself lately…" Starlight rubs the back of Twilight, Twilight looks up with a smile, an innocent smile. "Hey, can I tell you something?" Twilight asks the unicorn beside her. 

"Anything, but you're going to have a lot of explaining to do to Harmonia and why you were late.” Starlight explains, but she gladly accepts the request, the doors around the high metal fences in the garden suddenly slammed closed, Starlight's eyes widened as she looked around her. 

“Oh! And so will you.” Twilight said, igniting her horn. 

"Hey? What's happening?" the unicorn questions in unison, Twilight chuckles as she pushed Starlight away and bashed her against the high metal fence. 

"Twilight!?" Starlight yelps, she struggles to get free as she was forced onto the fence. 

Starlight ignites her horn as she frees herself from Twilight’s grapes. Twilight then fires a blast at Starlight, who is dodging out of the way. “What the hay Twilight?!” Starlight snaps at the Alicorn. 

“Oh you are going to pay for everything you did!” Twilight sneers, firing another blast. 

Starlight quickly throws up a shield around her blocking Twilight's attack. Starlight then fires beam at Twilight. “What has been your problem? Seems like ever since you have come back from Sombra you seem to just despise just about everypony who cares about you! If this is about Discord, the reason why you can’t go back there to attend your own daughter’s coronation then you need to let it go, stop clinging to the past Twi! He's moved on! And you should too!” 

“Like the past can be so easily forgotten, but my problem isn’t with Discord it’s with you! You are my problem!” She sneers. Twilight then attacks Starlight to the ground. Standing on top of Starlight as Twilight's hoofs pressed to her chest. 

Starlight struggles to breath for a moment. As she tried to ignite her horn, anger seeth in her eyes at the Alicorn. “I have put up with your mood swings, and your daughter and I have had your back even when others did not! And this is the thanks I get?!” She fires another beam at Twilight. 

Twilight looks at Starlight with disgust. “You really disgust me.” She mutters. 

Starlight then gets to her hooves, firing a spell at Twilight, as she did the same. For, Twilight being much more powerful than Starlight, but both having an equal matched advantage in magic skill pins her to the metal bars, smirking at her trying to struggle. 

"Oh Starlight, when will you learn…" Twilight stood in front of Starlight, as she changed slowly into none other than. 

"Chrysalis…" Starlight says in fear, Chrysalis laughs as two of the figures came out of the shadows, two changelings with armor meant to strike fear. 

"You really thought you could run away from me? How disappointing." Chrysalis sneers at Starlight, she then throws Starlight on the ground, she lands with a hard thud and looks up at Chrysalis with a deadly glare, her teeth bared.

“No one even invited you here! Do you have an RSVP?! I don’t think so!” Starlight said, her tone snappy. 

"Besides, you're forgetting one thing…" Starlight states, Chrysalis kicks Starlight, flipping her over. "And what am I forgetting exactly?" Chrysalis coos, Starlight gets up slowly, smirking. 

"I've beaten you once, I'll do it again if I have to…" Starlight blasts two magic orbs at the two armored changelings, sending them to the high metal fences, knocking them out. 

Chrysalis's eyes widened at that, and shifted her attention to Starlight. "Then i'll kill you right here…" Chrysalis summons a war spear using her magic. "Magic and weapons, how fun will that be?" Chrysalis laughs, Starlight summons her longsword that Twilight has bestowed to her, getting into a battle stance. 

"I won't let you win…" Starlight states, Chrysalis begins to interject. 

"Oh but I have, and we're everywhere." she coos, Starlight rushed at Chrysalis with the longsword aimed at Chrysalis, she then twirls the sword going for a side hit, Chrysalis parries and riposted with hit from below, Starlight manages to block the hit then returns with an over head strike, the blade hits the armor, and green blood drips from the hole. 

"You still never learn…" Starlight interjects, Chrysalis grits her teeth and thrusts the war spear towards Starlight, Starlight parries the hit riposting with a side heavy, Chrysalis blocks it then shoves Starlight back with magic, distancing for a while. 

"You know, I enjoy seeing Harmonia break into bits and pieces, she's very weak and that love she has will be mine…" Chrysalis teases, Starlight yells and goes back into the fight, Chrysalis hits Starlight with the back of the spear, dazing her, Chrysalis follows up with a over head strike, Starlight managed to block the attack and follows up with a side hit, hitting Chrysalis once more, green blood slowly pouring out of the armor. 

"You're relentless, I'll give you that, but I can't stay and play for too long." Chrysalis winces from the pain, and disappears from the fight, Starlight took the time to catch her breath, and follows Chrysalis inside the empty castle chambers. 

“Oh no you don’t!” Starlight said, charging after her.

Both her and Chrysalis' barrel rolled through the hallway, however Starlight didn’t want to wreck the decorations. So she teleports herself and Chrysalis somewhere else. 

“Where are we?!” Chrysalis seethed. 

“Somewhere where you can’t hurt anypony!” Starlight snaps. 

“That’s where you’re wrong! I can hurt you.” Chrysalis said, firing a blast at her, Starlight teleports out of the way, appearing to the left side of Chrysalis.

"We're doing this again aren't we!?" Starlight fires 3 magic orbs whilst running to the right side, Chrysalis creates a force field, deflecting most of the orbs, she returns fire with orbs of her own, green plasma magic going at high speed towards Starlight.

"Do you ever get tired of this? I managed to kick your flank once! I'll do it again if i have to!" Starlight sees an incoming orb and dodges to the left, the orb explodes, Starlight sees two more incoming and teleports up on a hill surface, the two orbs explode, creating two craters down below. 

"Let's rewrite the story shall we?" Chrysalis interjects with a mocking tone, she immediately teleports behind Starlight with the war spear about to thrust Starlight on the side. 

"How about I write the story? The big bad villain gets defeated yet again!" Starlight states, her tone flashy, she then fires an orb at Chrysalis making her drop the war spear, Starlight fires multiple orbs at Chrysalis slowly pushing her back, Chrysalis manages to summon a force field once more as two of the orbs hit her, she then rams Starlight down the hill top, making her roll down painfully. 

"Come on Starlight, you're not putting up much of a fight here!" Chrysalis teleports down as soon as Starlight hits the ground, Chrysalis raises the ground with her magic where Starlight was laying down, sending her up in the air. 

"Is it me or you're just stalling for time!" Chrysalis laughs as she splits the platform where Starlight was laying on into two, she grabs Starlight with her magic, and aligned the two platforms beside Starlight. 

"I am gonna kill you nice, and slow…" Chrysalis then pushes the two platforms at Starlight, slowly squishing, Starlight yells and struggles as the walls slowly crush her. 

"I love you aunt Starlight…" A faint voice of Harmonia lingered inside of Starlight's mind, her eyes well up with tears as she remembered more of the pony she was trying to protect. 

"I love you too kiddo." Her past self replies as she hugs Harmonia to sleep in memory.

"Harmonia…" Her eyes open, anger now filled in Starlight's heart, she heard Chrysalis laugh below, thinking of how triumphant she was, Starlight begins to charge her magic, her breathing heavy. 

"Oh Starlight dear, how's the weather up there!" Chrysalis mocks her and applies pressure to the crushing, she laughs triumphantly.

Starlight yells as magic surged in her, her horn glowing brighter than ever, Chrysalis notices a light blue light from the darkness in between, before she could apply the deadliest of pressure the two platforms explode, seeing Starlight fall from grace with her horn ignited brightly and her look menacing. 

"How did you even-" Chrysalis didn't even finish her sentence as Starlight teleported in front of her, Starlight blasts multiple orbs immediately, slowly pushing Chrysalis back, Chrysalis sneers in anger as she teleports behind Starlight. 

"How did you even survive that!?" Chrysalis asks in anger, summoning a war spear and aims it high enough to hit Starlight's back, Starlight turns around immediately, whip-lashing Chrysalis with magic on the face, making Chrysalis drop the spear once more.

"What's wrong Chrysalis? Feeling dazed?" Starlight mocks back, as she grabs the spear with her magic, she hits Chrysalis's face with the blunt end of the spear, then shoves the pole on Chrysalis's face once more, splitting the spear into two, Chrysalis falls down to the ground and looks at Starlight, green blood slowly trailing down from her eye and nose. 

"Why won't you die!" Chrysalis sees Starlight charging towards her, she grabs Starlight with her magic, and slams her on the mountain wall, the rocks from above shake slowly without the two noticing. 

"I've had enough of your games Starlight, It's time I ended it here!" Chrysalis charges her horn, bright green magic emits from it, Starlight looks up seeing an unstable platform where rocks were lined up on.

"As a matter of fact…" Starlight grins at Chrysalis, Chrysalis gives her a confused look, Starlight looks at the wall, blasting it with her magic, as soon as the blast hits the rocky portion Starlight teleports away, Chrysalis looks in shock from above, as rocks fell on her, crushing and trapping her. 

"Serves you right." Starlight mocks back, her tone flashy, she walks away, her hair waving to the left as the wind swoops in.

Chrysalis blasts the rocks away, revealing her damaged form, she screams in anger and charges up to Starlight, Starlight grunts in annoyance.

"You can't just stay down can you? Fine." Starlight looks back just in time to see Chrysalis impale Starlight with the broken war spear, she smirks at Chrysalis, giving her one last whiplash of her magic, knocking Chrysalis out. 

Chrysalis stays on the ground, out cold, Starlight looks down at the knocked out changeling, and giggles. 

"You never learn." Starlight states she then teleports out of the area, leaving Chrysalis on the ground out cold. 


*** 


“Ladies and Gentlecolts may I present for the first time ever Princess Harmonia Sparkle!” Celestia announces. 

The double white French doors open, revealing Harmonia her elegant dress flowing swiftly behind her. 

Once Harmonia reaches the front of the crowded room. Celestia gently smiles at Harmonia. “Turn to face your subjects’ Harmonia.” Celestia said, her tone soft.

Harmonia did as she was told, and turned to face her adoring crowd. “Honored guests, family and friends. I present to you Princess Harmonia Sparkle! Heir to the throne of Friendship and Chaos! She is willing to be your new Princess!” Celestia announces, as she levitates the crown off the soft satin pillow that was beside her. Slowly levitating downward on Harmonia's mane. 

“If anypony has a reason to object, let them come forth and be heard!” Celestia announces. 

As if on cue, a beam of dark magic zips past Harmonia's mane, making her crown hit the floor with a loud, echoing clink. 

The ponies in the throne room, gasped. A familiar voice rings throughout the room. “I object!” Spoke a sly voice. 

Out from the darkness, came a chilling pony one, who Harmonia wished she was not seeing. “Awe, what a shame! You didn't even invite your own mother to your big day? Such a pity!” Twilight spoke, her tone icy and cold. 

“Twilight?!” The girls and her nieces and nephews said in unison. 

“Hi! Girls.” Twilight shifts her gaze to them for a moment, her tone so disgustingly bittersweet it was sicking. 

“But I… I thought you-” Harmonia said, trying to gather her thoughts. 

“If you ask me, she's not ready to be princess, she's far too young and even unprepared. Therefore, I can still make a decision for you for I- Queen Twilight Sparkle can still rule over you.” Twilight said, lightly touching her daughter's nose. “Now we can do this the easy way and you can come with me or we can do this the hard way.” She smirks at her daughter. 

“Your choice.” She muses at her. 

“No.” Harmonia said, her tone rather stern.

“No?” Twilight questions, her voice icy cold and haughty. “You really shouldn't have disobeyed your mother, Harmonia.” Twilight said, her voice light, dangerous and threatening. 

“Seize them!” Twilight calls out, her eyes glowing. 

From all around them, shadow creatures emerge from the walls and floor, surrounding Twilight with glowing red eyes.

“Take care of them! But leave the draconequus and Celestia to me!” Twilight commands. 

The shadows nod, completely under Twilight's control. 

“Well what are we doing? Don't just stand there! Fight back!” Sunset commands. 

Spike burns half the shadows, leaving them to vaporize. Illusion, Mystic and Trixie blast them with their horns. 

The Mane five are doing their best to stop the invasion themselves. “This is simply ridiculous!” Rarity said, upset for what has come upon Harmonia’s coordination. 

Rarity continues to obliterate the creatures with her horn. “You're telling me!” Pinkie Pie said. 

“Out of all the days you seriously had to ruin my special day?!” Harmonia shouts, tears aligned in her eyes. 

“Oh I'm not going to fight you.” Twilight coos to her daughter. 

“She is.” Twilight said, from behind her emerges a young alicorn about the age of nine she had the same coat as her Twilight, just darker, she looks at Harmonia with a devilish expression. 

“Who are you exactly?” Harmonia questions, unaware of who this young mare was. 

“Why I'm your sister! And we are going to have so much fun together!” Stormy said, her tone fake happiness, her horn ignites dark purple and her wings spread to show dominance. 

“Now! Let's play.” She smirks, she launches herself at Harmonia with her magic, blasting at Harmonia with relentless magic orbs coming at her, Harmonia snaps her fingers to create a force field around her, seeing the orbs disintegrate around her she smirks at the dark purple alicorn. "Is that all you got?" Harmonia teases, the dark purple alicorn chuckles. "You ain't seen nothing yet…"

Twilight surveys the chaos around her, rather pleased with her work. “Now time to extract my second revenge.” She mutters to herself. 


***

The atmosphere was chilly, dark and in a place where no one wishes to be. 

“Come out, come out wherever you are. You two can't hide forever.” Twilight coos, as she stalks the empty hallways. 

But they were nowhere in sight. “They really are cowards.” Twilight mutters to herself. 

She then comes back up through to the throne room. She took quick notice that Discord was helping Harmonia, but he was behind her. “Bingo!” Twilight said. She smirks, as igniting her horn. 

Discord notices this and then quickly notices that Harmonia was in the way as the dark magic was coming straight to her.

Discord quickly, without thinking leaps into action. “Harmonia, move!” He yells, as he quickly push Harmonia out of the way. 

Instead of her getting hit by the spell it was Discord, Harmonia turns to look at her father as the blast sends Discord to the throne chair, hitting his back with a hard thud to the ground, Harmonia's eyes widened and goes after her dad. "Dad!" Harmonia turns to look at Twilight, tears streamed down her face, Discord had the strength to get up, as he winced from the pain. 

The room fell silent for a moment since that loud blast from Twilight was heard. 

In a bright flash of white light, which slowly faded leaving Discord turned to the one thing that he despite being turned to stone. 

“Dad? Daddy?! Daddy!” Harmonia screams, she utterly felt broken inside as well as outside, she sat there crying in pain, agony and hurt. 

Sunset walks over to her, she looks from Harmonia to Twilight. “You are truly sick.” Sunset said, her eyes narrowed. 

"Sick? Have you looked in the mirror lately?" Twilight interjects, chuckling by her own reply, Sunset's eyes widened. 

 “I've been called worse, but if I were you I wouldn't be so quick to call somepony a monster, Sunset.” Twilight spats. 

This left Sunset to think for a moment. “I'm not like that anymore and you know it!” Sunset shot back. 

“If you ask me: Once a monster, always a monster.” Twilight sasses. 

“Oh? Like yourself?” Sunset shot back. 

Twilight  observes the chaos around her saying nothing to Sunset. “Now time to find my next target.” She grins, stalking her way to her next victim. 

Celestia. 


***


Sunset pulls Phoenix into a spare empty bedroom, she looks at her daughter. “Stay here! I don’t want you to get hurt.” she said. 

“Mom, please let me help them. I can be useful you know! Just because I lack one skill doesn’t mean I can be helpful in other ways.” Phoenix explains. 

“No! I can’t risk losing you. Now stay here.” Sunset said, her voice stern. 

Phoenix watches as her mother leaves the room. 

She slowly exits the room she was told to stay put in and watches the chaos unfold before her. She sighed, as she made her way slowly down the hallway. 

Phoenix slid her back against the wall, sulking to herself, but her ears pricked up at the sound of sudden growling. 

Shadow creatures. 

They slowly make their way to its prey. Phoenix backs up, only to be met by Twilight Sparkle-herself. 

“Well well well, who do we have here?” Twilight asked, her tone cold. 

Phoenix turned around, giving an awkward smile to Twilight. However, before she knew it she was lifted up into the air by Twilight’s dark magic. 

Phoenix gagged, struggled even as she gasped for air. 

“Let her go!” Commanded a voice from behind Twilight. 

“Well if it isn’t my dear niece Flurry Heart.” Twilight coos. 

Flurry’s eyes narrowed at Twilight as she tossed Phoenix to the side as if the poor Pegasus was a rag doll. 

Phoenix fell to the ground, limp. 

Flurry looks from her aunt to an unconscious Phoenix. Flurry bares her teeth, sneering. 

“You don’t exactly have your magic you know?” Twilight said, her tone smooth as silk and nonchalant. 

“Yeah, because you took it.” Flurry said, her tone sarcastic. 

“But, that doesn’t mean I have other ways.” Flurry said, as she drew her father’s sword from its shaft. 

Flurry charges at Twilight with her sword in her mouth. 

Twilight simply moves out of the way, Flurry stumbles for a bit before regaining composure. 

Flurry blows a strand of hair out of her face, as she turns around to see that Twilight too was pulling out a sword of an old suited armor statue. 

“Fine, If it helps I’ll make the rules fair.” Twilight said, stalking her way toward Flurry. 

She then clashes her sword with Flurry Heart’s causing sounds clinging and clashing, even as far as sparks to come from the metal blades hitting against each other. 

Phoenix slowly, but surely came out of her comatose state. Her vision was slightly blurry and dazed, but she can tell from the vision before her that Twilight had the upper hoof on Flurry. 

Drops of sweat were sliding down Flurry’s face as she tried her best to hold her ground. She is looking into her aunt’s sinister grin. 

Twilight swings the sword above her coming down on Flurry’s sword with a sharp clang. 

Flurry lost her grip on the sword as well as falling flat on her back. The sword landed on the other side of the room making a clanging noise. 

Flurry’s eyes widened, as Twilight was now over her. 

Phoenix looked around quickly, spotting a few other statues. She grabs the sword out of its holder. 

“That was my father’s sword you know.” Flurry said, her eyebrows arched. 

“Does it look like I care? Now time to finish you once and for all.” Twilight said, she swung the sword down, Flurry squeezes her eyes shut. 

However, Flurry felt like her death was taking moons. She opens her aquatic blue eyes to see that another sword was between Flurry and Twilight. 

“You want her? You are going to have to go through me first.” Phoenix dared. 

“I’m sorry I should have finished you off to begin with!” Twilight said, slamming her blade down against Phoenix’s. 

Phoenix smirks. “Don’t make the same mistake twice.” She warns Twilight. 

Phoenix and Twilight’s blades clashed together creating sparks, both danced across the room as the blades made beautiful but deadly sounds together. 

From the corner of her eye, Phoenix spot’s Flurry’s sword. She grabs it with her wing. “Princess! Catch!” Phoenix said, she slid the sword swiftly across the floor.  

Flurry stops it with her hoof. “Thanks.” She said. 

Flurry then joins beside Phoenix, as Flurry held her sword in her wing. 

“Are you sure you know how to be skilled with a sword?” Flurry asked, smashing her sword into Twilight’s. 

“Well my dad was part of a guard’s training once.” Phoenix explains. 

“Really? My dad is captain of the royal guard! As well as -” Flurry said, but Phoenix’s blade cut into Twilight’s causing sparks flying. 

Phoenix teeth bared. “Maybe we can talk about friendship later, Princess? Right now we have to lose her.” Phoenix said, clinging with Twilight's sword. 

Flurry and Phoenix both collide with Twilight’s sword. Both of them had their teeth bared at Twilight. 

Flurry looked around the room, her eyes landed on a damaged tapestry, barely hanging on to the rod. 

Lucky for them, Twilight was standing right under it. Flurry made a tiny motion with her hoof. Phoenix eyes followed. 

She then starts to form an idea, Phoenix grabs the extra sword that was lying on the ground- hurling it at the heavy tapestry. 

The tapestry fell, landing on top of Twilight. 

The girls stopped what they were doing, painting. “Nice going! Now we better get a move on quickly!” Flurry said. 

Twilight burns the tapestry with her magic. She watches as the two turn the corner. “They’ll be back. They always come back.” She seethed. 


***

Both Flurry and Phoenix fly down the hallway. 

“While we are running for our lives we might as well introduce ourselves. My name is Phoenix.” Phoenix said. 

“Nice to meet you! You can call me Flurry. Being called Princess is so overrated.” Flurry said, lightly giggling. 

Flurry’s tone turned serious. “Now, we need the Elements if we are going to stop my aunt.” She said, making a quick pit stop down an empty hallway. 

“We know where those are!” Phoenix said. 

Flurry looks at her confused. “We?” She asked. 

“I mean Kunzite and I! Follow me Princess.” Phoenix grabs Flurry’s hoof, lightly blushing. 

She moves away quickly. “Sorry.” She mutters. 

“It’s quite alright. Now come on.” Flurry said. 


*** 


Phoenix and Flurry crash into Kunzite. 

“Hey! What gives? Oh it’s you.” He said, giving his friend the cold shoulder. 

“Can’t believe you left your own BDF for a Princess.” Kunzite complains. 

“BDF?” Phoenix asked, confused. 

“Best Dragon Friend.” Kunzite said. 

“We don’t have time for accarnimes! We need to go and get the Elements of Harmony now.” Flurry said, her tone was serious. 

Kunzite drops the act. “Fine! But Phoenix and I are the only two who know where they're located.” He explains. 

“Unless, Twilight and Sombra moved them again.” Phoenix suggested. 

“Wait, how do you two know where the Elements possibly are?” Flurry asked. 

“Let’s just say when you have a father who loves gems a lot.” Kunzite said

“And a mother who loves exploring more unknown mystical places. It kind of just rubs off on ya.” Phoenix said. 

“Fine! Just hurry!” Flurry said. 

Phoenix nods. “Come on Kunzite. Let’s go.” She said, her tone confident. 

“Right behind you.” Kunzite said. 

Flurry watches from the window as the two flew into the night sky. 

From behind, a sinister smile and eyes met Flurry Heart. 

The sound of a sword being swiftly taken out of its shaft sounded in the tiny room. 

Flurry turned around, before she had time to react or even pull back out her father’s sword. 

Twilight struck down on Flurry. 

Flurry watched in horror as she saw feathers fall silently to the floor. She tried to lift her wing to use her sword, but she could not feel anything out of it. 

“M-my wing?! What did you do!” Flurry asked, as fear laced her voice. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know.” Twilight said, her tone sly, she chuckles. 

Twilight then drags the sword, slowly across the floor. 

Flurry watched in horror at what she was seeing: her own blood dragged across the floor. 

She truly killed in her own blood, almost that is. 


***

“Why are we here?” Phoenix asks. 

“We came to the Tree of Harmony for a reason. If that really is “Aunt Twilight” then the Elements of Harmony should have been returned, right?” Kunzite explains. 

The two make their way into the cave where the Tree of Harmony falters. Kunzite started to fly over to the tree, Phoenix followed, but they stopped dead in their tracks. “Wait…. What happened to the tree?! A-And the Elements?! They’re broken, but how?” Kunzite mutters to himself, his pupils small as dimes.

He turns away from the tree to look at Phoenix. “We need to tell Aunt Twilight about the Elements!” Kunzite continues. 

“Yeah… Something is telling me that she either wouldn’t care or that it's not really Princess Twilight.” Phoenix said, sarcasm leaked in her tone. 

The young drake rolled his eyes, as he picked up one of the smashed bits of an Element. “Whatever like you said before, I have my theories and you have yours. ” He then proceeds to pick up one of the smashed parts of an Element. Something felt off with it. Kunzite began to rub it between his forefinger and thumb before licking it, and biting into it, but the surface never broke or cracked just left Kunzite’s teeth marks.

 “These are fake!” He said, dropping the fake Element of Loyalty. 

“How?! If the Tree is destroyed and those are not the real Elements then ... where are the real Elements?!” Phoenix asked. 

“She must have duplicated a copy of them.” Kunzite suggested, looking at the broken replicas. 

For a split second realization dawned on her, the satisfaction of knowing that she was right! “Ha! I knew it! That “Princess Twilight” is a fake!” Phoenix said, celebrating her victory on being right. 

“Maybe you can celebrate your victory later? We have to find the Elements before it's too late.” Kunzite said, tugging on Phoenix's hoof. 

Phoenix wonders to herself. “If that isn't Princess Twilight then who is that?” 

With that question in front of  Phoenix's mind the pair both fly out of the cave and go to look for the Elements.


***


“Why are we in Twilight and Sombra’s bedroom exactly?” Phoenix asked. 

“Well if I was corrupted and turned into a greedy dragon I’m pretty sure I’d keep the Elements closely beside me.” Kunzite explained. 

“Huh? They have really nice decor in here.” Kunzite said. 

Phoenix rolled her eyes. “We didn’t come here to admire the room genius.” she said, her tone slightly annoyed. 


“Now let’s ramshack this place!” Phoenix said. As she started throwing perfectly made sheets off the bed. 

“What are you doing?! You can’t just vandalize someone’s home.” Kunzite said, his tone worried. 

“You can if you have Equestria to save. Now help me!” Phoenix demanded, as she started throwing books out of its holder. 

Kunzite started to throw pillows off the bed and overturn the mattress. 

Phoenix looked in every nook and cranny of the room. 

The clock on the wall changed from 7:00 pm to 10:45 pm. They spent the last 2 hours searching for the Elements, yet they were nowhere to be found. 

“Ugh! Where could they be?! I was for sure they would be here.” Phoenix wails, her tone impatient. 

Kunzite spots a display case in the corner of the room, and the light illuminates it. “My guess is that they were there.” Kunzite said, pointing to the display case. 

“Well we just destroyed a royal couple’s bedroom for nothing.” Phoenix said, her tone blunt. 

“But you have to admit it was fun.” Kunzite said, his tone giddy. 

“Hey, Twilight was planning on rearranging anyways. We just gave her a head start on it. Now let’s go.” Phoenix said, walking out of the destroyed room. 


*** 


Phoenix and Kunzite come across the throne room of The Crystal Empire, the two enter it only to be staring at an empty throne room and a giant purple crystal that hangs over the throne. 

“Isn’t there a secret passageway? That leads to like millions of stairs?” Phoenix wonders. 

“Yes, but how did you know about it?” Kunzite wonders. 

“My mom is originally from Equestria in case you forgot. She’s told me about this place or more of the origins from it.” Phoenix said, still staring at the huge crystal above the throne. 

“But neither of us are unicorns, so we have no way of turning that crystal dark.” Kunzite said. 

“Maybe I can help with that.” 

They turn around to meet Sunburst. 

“Uh. Who’s that?” Phoenix asked. 

“I think it’s that kooky mentor that Flurry tells so much about.” Kunzite said. 

“Okay, one offensive and two in the Crystalor of this Empire. Sunburst to be exact.” Sunburst explains. 

“Well Sunburst-“ Phoenix said. 

“He still looks like a kooky mentor.” Kunzite said, trying his best not to stifle a laugh. 

Phoenix smacks Kunzite with her wing. 

“Do you think you can turn that Crystal black? It’s an emergency.” Said Phoenix. 


“I’ve heard what has happened. News like this does spread very quickly around Equestria.” Sunburst explains. 

Sunburst then thinks for a moment, trying to remember what spell was used on the crystal before. He takes a step back as he aimed his horn at the crystal as dark magic was being used on it to open the secret passageway. 

Phoenix and Kunzite watched in awe, but quickly looked down instead of being met with stairs they were met with a trap door. 


*** 

“Ouch!” Phoenix wails. 

“Are you okay?” Kunzite asked. 

“Yeah I’m fine. Remind me to never trust a stranger again.” Phoenix said, using her wing to dust herself off. 

Kunzite and Phoenix look around their surroundings only to see crystals everywhere. 

“Where are we?” Phoenix slowly asked, her tone cautious. 

“I’ve heard of this place before! It’s the Caves beneath the Crystal Empire.” Kunzite said, touching the cold exterior of the crystals. 

“Is there even a way out of here?” Phoenix asked, looking around. 

Kunzite eyes scanned the surroundings. “There should be.” He mutters to her. 

Phoenix eyes caught something that glimmered. 

“Huh? Hey Kunzite do you think you can use your dragon breath as a fire. I see something ahead in the distance.” Phoenix said. 

Kunzite blows his fire breath in the direction that Phoenix was looking at. She gasped at what she saw. “It’s the Elements!” Phoenix said, her tone excited. 

They both flew toward them. “They're all here! Wait… one, two, three, four, five …. where’s the sixth element?” Kunzite asked, looking down at them. 

Phoenix scanned their surroundings once more. “Over there!” 

From afar, wedged between two crystal rocks was the Element of Magic which was next to the escape. 

The two took off, once they landed Phoenix hoof missed the stone, but Kunzite quickly grabbed her front hoof and lifted her up. 

“Thanks.” Phoenix mutters. 

They were now five feet from the Element and they exist. 

“There it is! Now let’s grab the Element and get the heck out of here.” Phoenix said. 

Kunzite froze for a moment. “Wait do you hear that?” He asked, his head turned to the source of the sound, which sounded like the scatter and crunching of crystals. 

The pair back up, only to be met by a trio of ponies, their eyes red- clearly the work of Sombra and Twilight.  “You’re not going anywhere.” 
> Chapter 27: Battle Cry
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“We're back!” Announced Kunzite.

“Woah!” Phoenix said, dodging the shadow creatures. 

“What is going on here?” Kunzite asks, surveying the chaos before the two. 

Kunzite and Phoenix watched as screeching shadows like creatures covered the place. 

“I thought we were attending Harmonia’s coordination?” Phoenix questions. 

Without warning a shadow creature bolted before them, heading straight towards them. “Watch out!” Sunset yells. She jumps in front of the  kids, creating a barrier around all of them.

Sunset manages to hold her shield for as long as possible, trying to keep the shadow creatures at bay. She looks at her daughter and the young dragon. “Where the hay have you two been?” Sunset asked, her tone rather strict. 

“We did our own little investigation.” Phoenix explains. 

“You what?!” Sunset asked, her tone stern. 

“Miss. Shimmer just hear us out please.” Kunzite said, his tone practically on the edge of begging to be heard. 

Sunset grunts as she tries her best to maintain her shield. “Ugh! I’m trying my best to listen, but I can hardly hear anything over the loud explosions and the consistent screeching.” She said. 

Sunset had about enough, and with all her strength, she fired a blast at the creatures. “I said enough!” She yells, firing her horn at them. 

 She blasts, her beam of magic shooting through the creatures  making them evaporate into thin air.

“Mom! We found the Elements.” Phoenix beams. 

Sunset's eyes widen. “And we think we know a way to save Aunt Twilight.” Kunzite said. 


***

“How many are there?!” Prism asks.

“Too many, darling. Not only that but we are surrounded!” Ophelia said, her back was against the others.

“And I'm running out of confetti for my canon.” Complains Confetti Pop. 

“You and me both sis.” Said Cotton Berry, pulling the string to his canon once more.

“Who knew Harmonia's coordination would turn into this.” Honey Crisp said.

“Do you think Harmonia would be able to help us?” Meadow Bliss asks. 

Prism looks in the direction that Harmonia was in, looking like she was already in a battle of her own. “She looks preoccupied with her own issues at the moment.” Prism explains. 

“They're getting closer…” warns Ophelia.

Suddenly a flames of lime green startles the kids, as they watch the shadow creatures evaporate into thin air.

“Need a hoof?” Asked Spike. 

“Where the hay have you been?!” snaps Prism. 

“Doing the same thing that you're doing, Prism.” Spike snaps. 

“No time for arguing! Let's go!” Honey Crisp said. 


***

Twilight carefully and slowly walked the halls of Canterlot, her hooves echoing in the empty, yet destructive hallway. 

She calls out in the empty corridor, hoping that somepony will answer. “...... Celestia…..” Twilight's tone was sicking, yet psychotic in a sense. 

“...... Come on! Nopony doesn't have to get hurt if you just give up, we can be fair about the whole ordeal you know.” She coos out, her tone rather sicking and sweet. 

“.... Besides I know you're hiding in here! So show yourself, coward!” Twilight sneers, blasting one of Celestia's ancient artifacts.

After looking in room after room, but no Celestia to be found. “Come on! I just want to play a friendly game of cat and mouse. Except I'm the cat and you're the mouse.” Twilight said. 

She finally tries the last available door, and behold was none other than the Princess of the Sun herself. 

Twilight's lips curled into a sinister smirk. “Oh! This will be fun!” She cooed. 


***


Harmonia dove for her sister's attack. Creating a shield around herself. “Why are you doing this?” Harmonia shouts.

“Because it's an order! I'm simply doing our mother a favor, by getting rid of you!” Stormy said, firing another blast at Harmonia.

“I don't even know you! I just met you like not even twenty minutes ago!” Harmonia said, she puts down her shield and fires a magical blast at her. 

Stormy dove, avoiding Harmonia's attack. “And somepony like you is getting crowned? Ha! You don't even look like you are fit to rule. Really? That crown should belong to somepony of worth…. Somepony like… me.” Stormy coos. 

“You do realize that the crown goes to the oldest child in a royal family?” Harmonia questions her. 

“And that won't be a problem once I'm done with you!” Stormy sneers, firing another blast. 

The blast grazes Harmonia, leaving her dress more tattered than it already was. “This dress was one of a kind!” Complains the young draconequus.

“Harmonia!” A familiar voice calls out, who teleports her out of the circle with Stormy. 

“Hey! I wasn't through with you!” Stormy calls her, her anger infuriating. 

Harmonia fires a blast, but the pony who saves her yelps. “Geez! I try to save your flank and this is the thanks I get?” 

“Crystal?!” Harmonia said, her tone in disbelief. Correction, in utter shock that this is the pony who saved her from almost certain doom.

“Have you seen Flurry? I'm starting to get worried about her.” Crystal asks. 

“Since when does Crystal and compassion ever belong in the same sentence?” Harmonia questions her cousin. 

“Look who has jokes,” Crystal said, her tone sarcastic. “But I'm serious.” She said, her tone rather serious.

“I… I don't know, but- watch out!” Harmonia said, pushing herself and Crystal out of the way. 

A blast accompanied by one of the Darkling creatures ensued. 

Crystal fired a beam of magic with her horn.  

“Why are you helping me? I thought you hated my guts.” Harmonia wonders.

“Oh I do, but that doesn't mean I don't love you. We just have this odd love/hate family relationship.” Crystal admits. 

“Okay…. Who are you and what did you do with the real Crystal?” Harmonia asks. 

Crystal sighs. “Look, the truth is… how am I supposed to explain this to you?” Crystal asks. 

“We always do spontaneous musical numbers!” Confetti Pop calls out from somewhere in the room. 

“It's just…” Crystal said, trying her best to come up with words.

She sighs. “I'm jealous… of you.” 

“Of me?” Harmonia questions. 

“Yes… ever since you were born the attention from my mother and father got taken off of me at the time and was put all on you. It… it made me feel like they didn’t love me anymore.” Crystal said. 

“Crystal....” Harmonia mutters. 

Crystal scoffs. “It’s a ridiculous reason now I know but-” 

“Maybe you two can make amends later!!!! We are kinda in a pandemic here!” Opheliah shouts, as she blasts a changeling. 

Harmonia sighs. “She’s right.” 

Crystal and Harmonia look at their surroundings. “Okay, here's the plan I attack from the left you-” Harmonia was cut off, when a red blast fired from afar, moving Crystal to the side. 

“Crystal!” Harmonia calls out. She looks from where her cousin laid unconscious to her cousin's attacker. 

“Don't worry you're next.” Soothes a voice that belonged to King Sombra. 

“I told you I wasn't through with you.” Sneers Stormy.


***

“Hey guys, sorry I'm late-” Shining said, but stopped short and witnessed the scene before him. 

“What in Taturus is going on here?” Shining asks. 

“Awe…. That's so sweet that you will be joining the party.” Coos a voice from behind. 
Shining turned to come face to face with his sister. 

“Twily, what happened here?” Shining asked. 

“Let's just say this party lacked one important guest to bring this party alive.” The Alicorn teases, firing a blast at the young stallion who blocked it with his shield.

“Oh! Did you not get the memo? Harmonia isn't accepting anymore gifts!” Twilight said, blasting the gift to smoke and ashes. 

Shining looked over and saw that Harmonia was lying unconscious next to his daughter.

 Shining was furious. “What did you do to them?!” Shining asks, demanding an answer from his sister. 

“I assure you they're fine, just in a bit of a “timeout” at the moment, both of them have been naughty girls. How about you join them!” Twilight fires another magical beam at him, but Shining once again blocked it. 

“Twilight! Listen to me! What you are doing isn't getting you anywhere! You are causing the ones you care about to get hurt! Is that what you really want?” Shining asked, trying to reason with his sister. 

"I'm lost Shining, I can't find my way back, all those tortures I've been through…" Twilight tears up a little, breaking down her tough persona slowly. Shining goes near, eyeing her sister a little. 

"Twilight, you just need to-" Before Shining could finish, Twilight swung her longsword at him, grazing Shining in the process.

"But now, I feel stronger, I feel better, I feel powerful than any alicorn in this kingdom!" Twilight spats out in triumph, she then spins the longsword trying to get a hit on Shining, Shining parries with a longsword of his own, sparks flying as the blades clash, loud ringing lingers in the area. 

"I don't want to hurt you Twily! You're my flesh and blood…" Shining tears up as he looked into her sister's eyes, pure anger was felt in that gaze, she pushed Shining back a little while clashing, getting the upper hand in the fight. 

"I'm lost Shining, and I can't be found!" Twilight cries out in anger while tears fall from her eyes, she then breaks the clash going for a quick thrust, Shining evades out of the way and hits Twilight with the hard pommel of the longsword, Twilight stumbles back, giving small distance.

"Twilight, look around you, is this what Harmonia would've wanted? You can still be found, I'm here for you!" Shining explains, charging at Twilight, Twilight looks up and shoves Shining away with her magic, she then blasts two magic orbs at Shining.

"I can't be found, you guys left me!" Twilight states, Shining blocks the orbs with his force field, Twilight follows up as soon as the orbs disperse, digging the blade in the barrier.

"We were looking for you! I'm sorry if we haven't gotten to you sooner!" Shining explains, breaking the force field and clashing with Twilight once more, Twilight immediately breaks the clash and goes for a side hit, the blade hits Shining's shoulder as Twilight follows up with an overhead strike, Shining attempts to block the incoming attack but fails to do so as the impact was powerful, Shining collapses to the ground, no wound was felt and he looked up to his sister who was coming for him slowly. 

"Twilight, stop this now!" Shining orders as he gets up and sees Twilight go for another overhead strike, he parries it this time, giving Twilight another pommel strike and a side hit which grazed Twilight's armor, Twilight moves back feeling a small sharp pain in her torso, she looks at Shining with tears in her eyes. 

"Twilight, look at yourself, is this what your daughter would've wanted to see? Her own mother that she loved so much turned into a monster?" Twilight looks at herself, all the rage she felt slowly went down, she drops the longsword, tears falling. 

"Is this what your friends would've wanted to see?" Twilight moves back, seeing herself fade away slowly, Shining goes near her sister, dropping his longsword. 

Twilight sneers at him. “You don't understand!” Twilight said she tried to remain cold and distance, but on the inside her exterior was slowly breaking. 

Tears aligned her eyes. “Twilight, I've been with you through this whole ordeal! I have never left you! Please spare the ones you care about!” Shining Armor pleads, he tried to hug his sister, who reluctantly came to him with a hug.

But the moment lasted briefly. Twilight got Shining, right where she wanted him. She fires dark magic at him, causing him to fall to the floor. “Or maybe I wish you'd join them!” She hissed. 


***

“I hope we're not too late, cupcake!” Party Favor calls out, joining Pinkie Pie, as he blasts the shadow creatures with his magic. 

“Where the hay have you guys been?” Pinkie Pie asks, her tone rather serious. 

“Well it isn't my fault that the author waited nineteen Chapters later to add us back in!” Party Favor said, his tone defensive.

“Need a claw darling?” Capper asks. 

“That would be very helpful right about now!” Rarity said, continuing to blast the creatures with her horn. 

“Okay guys here's the plan….” Capper said, gathering the guys in a small circle. 


***

Tempest was zapping the creatures left and right, even without her horn she was doing a pretty damn good job. 

She looked around her, noticing that everypony was in some type of battle of their own except one: Harmonia.

Tempest eyes widen at what she saw, a crowd of Shadow creatures ready to pounce on the young draconequus princess. She then zaps the remaining few that were in her way, galloping quickly away from them and heading toward Harmonia. 

“Back away from the Princess and no one gets hurt.” Tempest said, her tone was low and dangerous. 

The shadow creatures didn't care, they still charged towards them. Tempest then fires her horn at the surrounding creatures, evaporating them with one zap. 

Tempest turned to Harmonia. “Princess? Harmonia if you can hear me please wake up, your friends need you.” Tempest pleads. 

No sound. “J-Just hang in there okay?” Tempest said, trying her best not to break down and cry. 

Tempest grabs Harmonia in her magical aura, and races with her to the nearest clearing that there was. Blasting shadow creatures in their path as she makes her way towards the clearing. 

She stops short, when she becomes surrounded again. She glanced between them and knew that she was only a few feet away from the hallway. 

“Look! I really don't have time to play.” Tempest said, her tone unamused. 

Sunset teleports between the two. “I'll hold them off! You go ahead.” Sunset instructed. 

Tempest nods and swiftly slides between the shadows. 

“Now who wants to play?” Sunset smirks, blasting the shadows. 

Tempest opens the door to reveal a spare bedroom. She lays the princess on the bed, taking in her tattered dress and messy mane. 

“Harmonia… please wake up Equestria, your friends, all of us need you.” Tempest begs. 

No answer. 

Tempest hangs her head low, silence falls in the room. 

The only sound that was occupying the room was Tempest’s silent thoughts. 

“Where in the hay is Starlight at? Come to think of it, I haven't seen her for hours.” Tempest thought to herself. 

“Maybe I should go look for her. I'm sure the princess will be fine.” Tempest mutters to herself. 

A soft, but inaudible groaning could be heard. “Tempest…. Is that you?” Harmonia asks, her voice soft, but also a bit raspy. 

“It's me Harmonia.” Tempest said, her tone soft and gentle. 

“Wh- What happened? Where's Crystal?” Harmonia asks, gazing around the half empty bedroom.

“I assure you she is okay, just unconscious.” Tempest said. 

“Well we have to go help her…. Or them.” Harmonia said, she tried to get off of the bed, but Tempest put a hoof to her chest. 

“I wouldn't advise that, Princess. You just took a hard blow from King Sombra. I would suggest that you stay here.” Tempest suggests. 

“I want to help, I'll be okay.” Harmonia said, her tone determined. 

Harmonia hops off the bed, but quickly gets pulled to the ground by her own weakness.

“That doesn't look okay to me.” Tempest said, her tone blunt and unamused. 

Tempest helps her to her hooves. “Please, let me help. I don't want to be on the sidelines while you and the others bask in all the glory of saving Equestria.” Harmonia said. 

Tempest sighs. “Fine, if you want to help then you can start by helping me find your Aunt Starlight.” She said.

Harmonia nods. “Lead the way.” 


***

Sunset drags both her daughter and Kunzite into an empty hallway. “How did you guys get the Elements of Harmony? How did you even manage to escape?” Sunset asks.

“Let's just say: it was not easy.” Phoenix mutters.


***

Phoenix and Kunzite both looked around the empty caverne, Kunzite then picked up a piece of crystal and threw it on the other side of the cavern. 

“I want it!” They shout in unison. 

Both of them looked at each other before escaping. 


*** 


“Well however you did it, I'm just glad to know that you are both okay.” Sunset said, hugging her daughter. 

“And that I am so proud of you, Phoenix.” Sunset gently smiles at her daughter. 

“Can we have this touching moment later? We need to figure out a way to give Twilight's friends the Elements of Harmony. ” Kunzite said. 

“Right. But they still looked preoccupied.” Phoenix said. 

She watched as The Element of Honesty, Applejack was racing down the hallway with her lasso in her mouth, shouting through bare teeth. “Come back here, ya varment.” She shouts, swinging her lasso over her head. 

Phoenix then looks back over to her mom and Kunzite. “I actually overheard Ophelia’s dad and the twins' dad coming up with a plan. But I couldn't find out what the plan was about.” 

“Well whatever the plan is…. Maybe we can then get these Elements to Twilight's friends. Come on, follow me!” Sunset said. 


*** 


Twilight sits on her throne surveying the chaos around her, a satisfied smirk was on her lips, praising herself for what she caused. 

Sombra looks out at the distraction, satisfied to realize that not only the Crystal Empire was theirs for the taking, but also Canterlot. Heck even all of Equestria was by this point. 

However the throne room was too quiet. Sombra gazes around, normally he would be used to hearing the screams of terror, clanging of swords, foul words spoken or even the Darklings.

“Somethings not right…” Sombra muses. 

Twilight looks at him slightly confused. “What do you mean, my King?” She asked. 

“I mean the Darklings… just stay here. I’ll be back in a few.” Sombra said, as he got up from his throne and walked off leaving Twilight alone with her thoughts. 

She took a deep breath, as she gazes at what she and Sombra accomplished. 

But that silence didn’t last too long as a loud creak of the double doors came open. 

“What th-'' Twilight gazes at the visitor with curiosity, surprise that they were even brave enough to come here. 

"Ah Princess Twilight! A pleasure to meet you once more!" Capper proudly introduces himself, Twilight gives the cat a deadly glare, Capper gulps, trying to hold his composure. 

"So you're the one who sold us out before?" Twilight gives Capper a grin, she then ignites her horn, charging up magic. 

"Woah, let's all chill here Princess, i came here to entertain." Capper explains his tone chill and calming, Twilight goes near Capper with an annoyed sigh. 

"You're just wasting your time!" Twilight sneers, Capper then grabs 3 juggling balls out of the pockets of his jacket, and reveals it to Twilight who's eyes narrowed at it. 

"And what is this supposed to be?" Twilight asks, her tone nonchalant, Capper smiles at the reaction as she sees Twilight un-ignite her horn. 

"It's a special trick known to most creatures! It's called-" Before Capper could finish Twilight goes back to her seat, eyeing Capper. 

"Entertain me, Capper." Twilight commands as she digs the longsword on the floor, giving Capper a smirk as a warning. 

Capper gulps and begins to juggle, Capper jumps in the air landing on his tail which acts as a stand, he then looks at Twilight with a smirk. 

"So tell me Twily, why the long face?" Capper asks the alicorn who's attention was called, Twilight scoffs. 

"It's a long story really, and I'm tired of explaining it to nopony." Twilight replies as she removes the hoof armor. 

"But I aint no "pony" now am i?" Capper interjects, Twilight chuckles from that, and it suddenly turns into a giggle, Capper found the opening to distract Twilight. 

"You see Princess I have traveled far and wide, just to entertain a regal pony such as yourself." Capper tossed the three balls away, the three balls exploded into colorful confetti's, slowly making its way down to the floor. 

"And to entertain a beautiful pony such as yourself." Capper coos, his tone snappy, he then pulls out two colorful sparkling wisps out of his sleeves, and lands on his feet from the tail position he was in. 

"Oh Capper you are such a tease." Twilight teases back, smirking at Capper, Capper laughs at the reply and shows the two wisps.

"This will change the secrets of fire bending at its fullest!" Capper exclaims, Twilight leans forward on her seat, mildly intrigued by the show. 

Capper then closed his paw together, moving his arms and hands gracefully his feet movement fast and swift, he then blows the wisps that turned into  scarlet dust, Capper brings our a match stick and ignites the dust, the dust explodes into a heart shaped fire in the air, Twilight's eyes widened her mouth slightly opened.

"Capper, how did you-" Twilight asks but Capper stops her. 

"Might I say there Princess, you look fine tonight." Capper goes near the Princess, Twilight blushed slightly at Capper. 

"You know, nopony in this world would look very beautiful like you do." Capper closes his paw, Twilight looks at his right paw, intrigued by what's inside.

"What's in your paw? I demand to know!" Twilight demands excitedly, Capper laughs. 

"This my dear." Capper opens his paw to reveal a red wisp inside, then grabs a match stick from his pocket.

"Close your eyes." Capper demands, Twilight closes her eyes immediately.

"In 3,2… and 1!" Capper exclaims excitedly, Twilight opens her eyes the moment she hears the "poof" sound, revealing a beautiful sparkling red rose, Twilight blushes madly. 

"Capper i…" Twilight was lost for words, Capper chuckles and holds it out to Twilight.

Capper then stands in front of Twilight in a snappy stance, he then grabs something from inside his pocket, and smirks at Twilight.

"Oh dear Princess, come with me, escape with me from this horrible nightmare." Capper pleads, Twilight's smile turns into a frown slowly, Capper then kneels down facing Twilight, lifting her chin up with his paw. 

"I can't…" Twilight replies, Capper frowns a little, but still holds out the closed paw and reveals it to Twilight. 

"Why not dear?" Capper asks, Twilight sniffles, a tear streams down to her cheek, Capper smiles and wipes the tear away. 

"I…" Twilight blushed, Capper opened his paw to reveal a ring inside, Twilight's eyes widened, blushing harder. 

"My dear don't you see? We were made for each other!" Capper chuckles at Twilight, Twilight looks back down to the ring again, her eyebrow raised.

"Wait a minute, that's Rarity's ring!" Twilight's sweet expression went dark all of a sudden, the doors open from behind them to reveal Sombra with the scythe. 

"My dear I can't find our-" Sombra stops as he saw the feline kneeling down at Twilight, his eyes widened and his teeth bared. 

"You... HOW DID YOU GET IN HERE!" Sombra yells at Capper, Twilight looks at Capper with a deadly glare, she then pulls the longsword out of the ground, then points it at Capper's neck. 

"You are one disgusting feline…" Twilight mocks as she sliced the rose into two, Twilight turns her attention to Sombra. 

"Where are our legions? The Darklings?" Twilight asks, Sombra ignored the question as he dug the scythes blade on the ground, he walked slowly towards Capper, Sombra's breathing intensified by anger. 

"Sombra I'm asking you a-" Twilight looks back at Capper, smirking. 

"Looks like we have a competition here." Twilight coos as he saw Sombra headed towards them, the scythes blade dug on the ground, creating a cracked line as it follows its wielder. 

"Oh boy…" Capper chokes out, sweat falling down faster.

"Have at him dear." Twilight laughs as she teleports away, Sombra lunged at Capper with the scythe ready to strike overhead, Capper dodged to the left and immediately went for the door. 

"Come back here you mangy feline!" Sombra spats out in anger as Capper escapes through the door.

"Great, now the king wants my guts, I hope Ophelia gets what they need at this time!" Capper runs across the long hallway, he looks behind to see Sombra in his shadow form chasing Capper with the scythe ready to slash. 

"Just my luck!" Capper runs faster, he hears the scythes blade ringing, indicating the sound to strike, as Sombra lands the hit Capper jumps as the blade comes from the side, Capper lands on an armor stand throwing the helmet at Sombra, the helmet hits Sombra's head, which enrages him even more. 

"Come on slow-poke, I don't have all night!” Capper mocks as he begins to run, Capper saw the door open slowly at the end of the hall only to reveal changelings and shadow legions headed for him. 

"NOWHERE TO RUN NOW!" Sombra yells as he brings the scythe back up and chases after Capper.

"It's either I pick choice A where i die in this hall, or choice B where i jump like a mad cat over these blood-thirsty freaks!" Capper thinks to himself as he nears the crowd of killers headed towards him, he looks behind to see Sombra going after him with the scythe ready to slash once more. 

"Oh to heck with it…" Capper mutters as he approaches the horde in front of him, he then jumps to the wall, gracefully spinning above the horde, and lands out of the hallway, seeing Sombra bump into the horde as they all stumble to the ground.

Capper salutes them out of mockery, Sombra looks at Capper with a deadly glare as Capper closes the big crystal doors quickly, he then moves over to the sides where he barricades the door with heavy armor stands.

"Now that's done I can-" Capper turns around to see Twilight pointing the sword at his neck, he then gulps out of fear, staring at Twilight. 

"So we meet again my de-" Twilight bashes Capper with the pommel of the longsword and he stumbles down on the ground, Twilight still aims the sword at him. 

"Save me the flattery Capper, time to die…" He then raises the sword up, he then smirks at Twilight. 

"I'm sorry Princess but i gotta go!" He then opens his paws and blows the wisp powder onto Twilight's face.

"Caio Twily!" Capper runs away, his voice distant, as Twilight rubbed her eyes she looked around to see no Capper in sight, she grits her teeth in anger and screams. 


***


Kunzite and Phoenix tiptoe through the room, gathering the kids and the kids grabbing their mothers. 

They quickly galloped into a spare bedroom. Kunzite locking the door behind them. 

“I'm not sure how long your dad's can hold them off for.” Meadow Bliss was the first to speak up. 

“I hope you have a very good reason to be pulling us away from danger. We could be kicking some ghostly flanks by now.” Rainbow Dash explains. 

“Yeah, what is it that you have to drag us away that is so important.” Confetti Pop asks. 

Phoenix sighs. “We have the Elements of Harmony.” 

“What? How?” Rarity asks. “Twilight and Sombra had those sealed away moons ago, darling.” 

“I would love to tell you, but we really don't have time to explain.” Phoenix said, giving each of the barriers their respective elements. 

The girls stood there, gazing down at the elements. “What? What's wrong?” Phoenix asks.

“But what about Twilight?” Kunzite asks. 

Phoenix quickly scans the room of ponies and dragons. “Congratulations, Spike! Your Twilight Sparkle.” Phoenix said, her tone sarcastic as she placed the Twilight crown on his head. 

Spike's eyes widen as he mutters to himself. "I'm going to be obliterated for impersonating her..."

Phoenix rolls her eyes, annoyed.  “Now what are you waiting for? Go save Equestria!” Phoenix said, her tone slightly antsy and impatient. 

The girls still stayed put. “As much as we love to protect and save Equestria about a half a dozen times…” Fluttershy spoke up.

“We can't this time.” Rarity said, her tone saddened, her ears flattened. 

“What do you mean you can't?” Prism asks.

“Son, we- Applejack has something to tell you.” Rainbow Dash said, pushing forth the Element of Honesty.

Applejack glared back at Rainbow Dash, before sighing and looking at the children. “Sugarcubes, we can't wield the Elements anymore.” 

The children gasped, making Confetti Pop gasping the longest. The children look at her, annoying expressions on their faces.

 “Sorry.” Peeps Confetti Pop.
> Chapter 28: Fear Me or Love Me... It's All The Same
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“What do you mean you can’t wield the Elements?” Meadow Bliss asks, slightly confused. 

“We mean we can’t wield the Elements without Twilight.” Fluttershy explains to her son. 

“Well, this is just great.” Mutters Prism. 

“But we think you guys are able to save Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said. 

“How are we supposed to do that exactly? We don’t even know how the Element’s are supposed to work properly.” Ophelia said, gazing at her mother’s element that was around Rarity’s neck. 

The girls and Spike, took off the Elements and handed them over to the children. “We will try to buy ya’ll some time take these here Elements and go to a safe room. We will try to hold whatever threat we can off.” Applejack said, handing HoneyCrisp her element. 

The others handed each of the children their respective element. All except one; Harmonia. 

“Where’s Harmonia?” Spike asks, surveying the destruction around them. 

“We don’t know.” Cotton Berry said, slightly worried. 

“Well if you happen to run into her, give her this.” Spike said, handing her Twilight’s element. 

Prism grabs the element from Spike, leading the others to a safe room. 


***


Harmonia walks through the hallways, conflicted, confused and scared. “I really need some time to myself.” The young draconequus thought to herself. Without thinking, she teleports herself outside of the castle. 

Luna looked out the castle window, curiosity struck her. “Where is that filly going off to?” Luna thought to herself. 


*** 



Harmonia made it to the edge of the woods of the Everfree Forest. “Ugh! I can't do this! I can’t do any of this! I'm no princess. Maybe my sister is better off being a better ruler than me…. She is next in line after all...” Harmonia mutters to herself, her ears flattened. 

Small pebbles whizzed past the young princess. Harmonia was startled, she turned to her who could have fired that shot. “Have I got your attention?” Said a voice from behind her.

It was none other than Princess Luna. 

“Princess Luna!” Harmonia asks, surprised by her visitor.

 Luna walks over to her.“What are you doing out here young one?” Luna asked, her tone curious. 

Harmonia sighs, her ears flattened. “I'm just doing some thinking…” she muttered to the Princess. 

“Is that all?” Luna asks. 

“No, my friends and family are in grave danger, you know this. But I don't know how you could help. Unless you know a spell or two that could stop my mom once and for all and save all of Equestria.” Harmonia mutters.

Luna waves a hoof, dismissing the young draconequus request. You don't need a magic spell or even my magic to save Equestria.” She explains. 

“What you're looking for definitely can not be found out or even by magic. You are searching for what you need in the wrong place. What you need can only be found within you.” Luna explains. 

“And that is?” Harmonia asks, slightly concerned and curious. 

Luna puts a hoof on Harmonia's chest, smiling softly at her. “Have faith in your abilities and your friends.” she said, her tone going soft. 

“That's just it! I just now started to be crowned Princess- or was before the event got crashed. How am I supposed to save Equestria? When I don't even know how to work the Elements of Harmony?” Harmonia asks, the feeling of doubt laced her voice. 


***

Harmonia races though the damaged hallways, looking for her friends. 

Prism and the rest of the children were coming from the opposite direction, racing toward Harmonia.

“Prism?” Harmonia asks, skidding to a stop.
 
“Harmonia!” Prism said, surprised to find his friend. 

“Thank Celestia we found you!” He said, his tone sounding relieved. 

“Here.” He hands Harmonia, the Element of Harmony.

 The Element of Magic, her mother's element.

Harmonia looks down at the crown, before looking back up at Prism and the others. 

“But-” Harmonia said, about to explain, but HoneyCrisp cuts her off. 

“No time for chit chat. Let's go.” HoneyCrisp said. 

Harmonia sighs and follows the group anyways. 



***


Prism opens a door, ushering the group inside. “We should be safe here.” He mutters. 

He then looks back to the group. “How are these elements supposed to work anyways?” Cotton Berry said, looking down at his mother's element. 

“I'm not sure, but guys there's something I have to tell you. We also have another threat roaming around the castle and it's Queen Chrysalis.” Harmonia said, looking at the group. 

The others gasped, except Confetti Pop. “Sis? How come you aren't surprised by this?” Cotton Berry asks his sister. 

“Let's just say I've been knowing.” Confetti Pop said, her tone nonchalant. 

“Seriously?!” Ophelia said, her tone rather unamused. 

“What? The author wanted to add drama to the series.” Confetti Pop said. 

“Well, I think she added enough.” Harmonia mutters. 

Confetti sticks her tongue out playfully. “Well now since we have two major problems to deal with, I think we need to come up with a different plan.” HoneyCrisp said. 

“How about we free Harmonia's dad first? Maybe he will know how to deal with Aunt Twilight.” Meadow Bliss said. 

“And you see how that worked out. She turned him to stone!” Ophelia said, her tone rather dramatic. 

“Okay new plan. We can go free my dad, then we can save my mom, after that we go find Queen Chrysalis.” Harmonia said, hatching her own plan. 

“Great idea, Harmonia. Okay let's go!” Prism said, standing up from his position and leaving the room. 

Harmonia blushed at the comment as she followed behind the others.


***

HoneyCrisp leads the group down the hallway, they each peer their heads around the corner to make sure the coast is clear. “Okay, all clear.” HoneyCrisp whispers. 

They each made their way over to Discord's statue, eyeing her father's statue sent chills down her spine. How could her mother do something like this?

She knew that he never wanted to be revert back to stone, but here he was a thousand years later, this time by her own mother. 

Harmonia sighs. “Okay, let's do this.” Harmonia mutters. 

The children gather in a crescent circle around Discord's statue. 

They closed their eyes, all focusing on Discord's statue. 

Thirty minutes passed, nothing happened. “Isn't there supposed to be rainbows and super cool lasers that happen?” Prism asks, looking around. 

“Yes, but I don't understand?” Harmonia said, equally confused.

Harmonia shook the feeling of doubt away. “Come on, we have to try again.” Harmonia said, her tone rather pleading and determined. 

Harmonia tried once again, this time their focus fully on the statue. 

“Come on, just one spark.” Harmonia thought to herself. 

Just then, a small spark comes from the small group of children. 

That small spark created a rainbow, one full of hope, love, light and most important of all: Friendship. 

There was an explosion of bright white light, which threw the children backwards. They finally regained consciousness. “Did it work?” HoneyCrisp asks.

“Ugh! My head.” Mutters Discord. 

“Uncle Discord! You're okay!” Beams Confetti Pop, her voice rather cheerful. 

“What happened?” He asks. 

“Dad? Daddy!” Harmonia squeals, she throws herself at him, wrapping her claw and paw around him. 

Tears aligned her eyes. “I've missed you.” She softly whispers. 

Discord was taken aback by his daughters comments and hugs her in response. 

“Uh guys? Not to ruin the heartwarming moment, but we've still got to save Aunt Twilight and stop Queen Chrysalis.” Cotton Berry said. 

“Wait? When did Bug Queen even get here?” Discord asks, confused. 

“Long story.” Ophelia mutters. 

“Right. Now we have to save mom before-” Harmonia said, but Meadow Bliss cuts her off. 

“Guys? Why do the Elements look… dull?” Meadow Bliss, asked. 

The rest of the children look down at their element. Meadow Bliss was right, they were dull even to go as far as say: lifeless. 

“What? I don't understand.” Harmonia mumbles. She looks back up at her friends, their expressions went from worried to fearful in five seconds flat. 

Discord, on the other hand, has a look of anguish scrawled on his face. His eyes glowed, as he growled at the mare. 

“She's right behind me, isn't she?” Harmonia said, her tone unamused. 

Harmonia turns around to come face to face with her mother, who just smirks at her.

“I'll be taking these.” Twilight says, her tone sickly sweet. She grabs ahold of the elements in her aura. 

“Well...those elements aren't coming back…” Confetti Pop Mutters. 

“WE REALIZE THAT CONFETTI!” Harmonia shouts in disbelief. 

Twilight then laughs, wickedly. “Oh, you naive child. Do you not know what happens when you encounter dark magic with the Elements of Harmony?” she asks, still holding them in her aura. 

Harmonia furrowed her eyebrows, thinking, but came up with nothing. “You seriously don't know?” she gawked. 

“Well I'm 99.9% sure you didn't teach me that.” Harmonia huffs. 

“Fine! I'll give you the answer: they become dull and lifeless.” She snaps. 

“And since they are not of use anymore,” Twilight smirks. 

She throws the Elements of Harmony in the air, cackling then raises her front hooves and smashes the Elements. 

“No!” Harmonia cries out. 

They gawked at what just happened. 

“But, the Elements-” Ophelia mutters. 

“What? You thought they were unbreakable even after they got turned into precious jewelry?” Twilight asks, her tone venomous. 

The children said nothing, just gazed down at the elements. 

“Looks like you won't be saving anypony else today.” Twilight sneers before walking off. 

Prism looks to his friends. “So much for welding those Elements.” He said. 

Discord looks at from the broken Elements, to his daughter and her friends, to his ex-wife, who was cackling hysterical. Proud of her success and that she finally won. 

So she thought. 

Discord eyes started to glow red, as he growls ready to pounce on Twilight.  

Before he knew it, he pinned her to the ground. “You really think you won?” Discord asks, his tone low and threatening. 

Twilight then smirks at him, a look so sick and twisted that it could give somepony the nightmares. She then blasts Discord off of her, but he goes back to attacking her once again. 

Harmonia and her friends looked at each other, eyes widened before looking back at the scene before them. 

Discord and Twilight both blasted magic at each other, Discord dodging Twilight's attacks as he fires back at her. “You really think you can stop me?” Twilight sneers, firing dark magic at Discord. 

The two kept pinning each other down, all the way to the throne room. 

Harmonia and the gain follows the duo into the throne room, but quickly comes to a stop. 

Shadow creatures. 

“Do these guys ever give it a rest?” Prism groans. 

Confetti Pop sighs. “Time to pull out the party canon.” She said, her tone unamused.

“Sis. You love your party canon.” Cotton Berry said, blasts one of the shadow creatures. 

“You're right, I do! It's just that I am getting really tired and annoyed with fighting these creatures.” Confetti Pop said, pulling the string to her canon as confetti blasts the shadow into evaporating smoke. 

“You're not the only one, darling.” Ophelia said, blasting two of the shadows with her horn. 

Her back was against Harmonia, who was continuing to blast three more. “We have to get to the throne room.” Harmonia said, firing her magic at the shadow creatures. 

“But how? These goons are blocking our path and we’re outnumbered.” Meadow Bliss said. 

Suddenly a beam of greyish violet magic shot through one of the shadows. 

“Go! We will handle it from here.” Trixie said.

“Miss. Trixie?!” HoneyCrisp said, slightly shocked that a regular unicorn could do something like that. 

“Go now!” Starlight said, blasting a shadow creature from behind Trixie. 

They then race after Twilight. 


***

Harmonia and the others race through the castle of Canterlot, trying their best to avoid broken shards of glass from the stain glass windows. 

“We have to stay on alert Sombra or even my mom could be anywhere.” Harmonia warned. 

Without paying much attention, Harmonia collides into Crystal and Mystic. “What do you think you're doing?” Crystal asked. 

“I’m looking for my mother. What are you doing here?” Harmonia questions. 

“I’m looking for my sister.” Crystal explains. 

“Well while we are here why don’t we search for both of them together?” HoneyCrisp suggested. 

“Why would we want to do that?” Crystal asked, her muzzle scrunched. 

“Because it’s what friends do, they help each other. Don’t you have any friends?” Cotton Berry said. 

“That’s none of your concern! However just because I’m following you does not make us friends.” Crystal said, following Harmonia friends.  


***

The hallways of Canterlot were eerily quiet, too quiet. 

“You know I think the only reason you asked me to come along with you guys is because you miss us.” Mystic teases.

“Oh please don’t flatter yourself.” Harmonia scoffs. 

“Besides I can easily turn you both into something far worse other than your horrible personality you already have.” Harmonia said her tone was nonchalant. 

“I happen to have a great personality.” Mystic beamed. 

Harmonia arches an eyebrow. “Says who?” She asked. 

“Okay, how about we not do this.” HoneyCrisp suggests. 

“What? We’re just celebrating our differences. Isn’t that right Harmony.” Crystal said, poking out her bottom lip. 

Prism notices some royal guards in the west wing, staring directly at them all under Sombra spell and guarded in his armor. 

Prism can hear the slow scrapping of the swords being dragged. “I believe we are being challenged.” Mutters Prism to Harmonia.

“Prism shut up.” Harmonia said, putting her paw to the side while continuing to look at Crystal and Mystic. 

Harmonia rolled her eyes. “Since when has that ever happened? You’ve made my life miserable since I was five. And now we are pre-teens and you still continue to act like a five year old!” Harmonia shot back. 

“Look this is clearly not going to work so why don’t we just split up.” Mystic suggested. 

“That makes absolutely no sense, if my mom finds you or King Sombra then both of you will be under their spell.” Harmonia said. 

Without paying much attention as the guards were getting closer. 

“Girls! We have a situation!” Meadow Bliss shouts. 

Harmonia, Crystal and Mystic stop bickering long enough to pay attention to what Meadow and Prism was warning them about. 

“Where did the guards come from?!” Mystic questions, her tone laced with fear. 

“Who cares! Maybe if you three weren’t bickering like foals we could have already found Flurry Heart and Aunt Twilight.” Cotton Berry states. 

“We’re surrounded! There’s no way we will get through them.” Prism states. 

“And look! They are all under Sombra’s spell.” Ophelia notices, as the guards in circle them. 

“Then it looks like we are going to need these.” Confetti Pop said, tossing spare swords to her friends. 

Swords clashed and clanged with the under spelled guard ponies. 

Harmonia and the others watched as the guards fell in a pile on the floor, slumped over unconscious.

“I can’t believe we just did that!” Crystal said, her tone overly excited. 

Harmonia and Crystal smile at each other, before quickly turning into a scowl of disgust. 

“Now come on we have to get to the throne room!” Cotton Berry said. 


***

Twilight blasts Discord, sending him into Celestia’s throne, which was cracking bit by bit. “Tia is going to need a new throne after this.” Discord mutters to himself. 

“She’s going to need a new husband once I’m done with you!” Twilight shouts, firing a blast at Discord. 

He ducks and lunges after Twilight, but Twilight quickly grabs him in her dark aura. “You’re not winning that easily.” Sneers Twilight. 

Harmonia and the others got to the throne room, surveying the massive damage. From dents to cracks and broken glass, the throne room was a massive wreck. “Looks like Princess Celestia and Luna are going to need a new throne room after this.” Mutters Confetti Pop. 

“Look!” Meadow Bliss said, pointing his hoof in the direction of Aunt Twilight and Discord.

Trixie, Illusion, Mystic, Tempest, Starlight, the Mane 5, the Princesses’ and Shining all gather into the damaged throne room. Celestia and Luna looked at the damage and wreckage before them. 

“Twilight! Enough is enough! Please spare their lives; they have done nothing to hurt you. Let them be! I’m the one you want! Just please spare their lives.” Celestia explains, while tears pricked the corner of her eyes as she saw what her former student had become and she couldn’t help but know that all of this was their fault.

Twilight slowly trots to her, she grit her teeth and gave her a sinister look, Twilight responds, her voice different from before.

“It's a-all, your f-fault...” She couldn’t control herself, as she let out a loud and angry yell so long, the glass started cracking and shattering, her anger overwhelming her and the walls rattled once again.

Celestia’s ears folded downward from all the yelling. “I know I’m the one to blame. Believe me if I could go back and rewrite the past I would.” she said. 

“Well it’s too late now!” Luna pipes up, her tone blunt. 

“But what’s done is done and I can only say I’m sorry.” Celestia said.

“You think “I’m sorry” is going to fix what you two have done?!” Twilight shouts. Twilight’s eyes are now bloodshot red, she ignites her horn and the magic aimed towards the chandeliers, the chains that hold them started separating, falling towards the two sisters.

“Everything you’ve created, everything you’ve taught me, will go down with you!” She said as she brings the chandeliers down at them, she ignites her horn again, this time aiming her magic at the columns that supported the broken ceiling, she starts crumbling them and the column debris starts falling on them too.

“Killing you will be satisfying...” She said, her eyes having the purple mist coming out of it.

Luna looks above quickly avoiding most of the debris, she tries to suppress Twilight's anger by reasoning with the madly enraged Alicorn, Twilight didn’t listen as she let her intense anger build up.

Luna stumbled a little but kept her stance, she focused on Twilight, thinking of what to do next.

“Twilight! You don’t have to do this! Believe me when I say that. This is only King Sombra’s doing.” Celestia said. 

Luna looks at Twilight, a desperate look in her eyes. “Twilight. Please listen to my sister.” Luna said, trying her best to reason with the alicorn who held a devious and psychotic look in her eyes. 

Celestia looks on in horror, as she watched her sister be in prison in a crystal cage by Twilight and the window being shattered as she sent Luna out of it. “Luna!” Celestia screams, but she didn’t have time to wallow in hurt at the moment, she then looks back at Twilight with a pissed off expression displayed on her face. 

“Twilight this has gone far enough! Sombra is messing with your head, we’ve dealt with this before I know you can resist!” Celestia said, she started charging at Twilight and Twilight crashed into a pillar, Twilight was buried in a lot of heavy crystal rubble and debris.

“You can’t keep me here forever...YOU KNOW THAT!” Twilight’s anger builds up even more.

“I’m gonna come out of here...and PAINT THE WHOLE WALLS WITH YOUR BLOOD!” She escapes pushing the debris towards them, the debris hits the other columns and brings some of the ceiling down, the moonlight shining at them, Twilight yells creating fire all around them, she even creates a little shockwave along with it. 

“Mom! Please stop!” Harmonia cries out, but her sound is faint and nopony hears her desperation cries to stop.

“Listening to you two is just a waste of my time, soon every pony will know what kind of tyrant you are!” She said as she ignited her horn, grabbing Celestia and teleports Luna from the cage and holding them both in her dark aura.  

She slams the two to the broken down walls, revealing the environment outside of the throne room, the dome shaped throne room was at the brink of collapsing but Twilight never cared, she wanted revenge.

“Please Twilight, listen to us, we’re here to help you, just let go of the anger!” Luna yelled, trying her best to snap Twilight out of it as she struggled.

Discord stood up quickly, and slammed Twilight onto a wall, making her lose her magical hold on the two sisters.  

Twilight looks at Discord, her eyes narrowed. “What do you think you’re doing?!” She sneers, she slowly ignites her horn, ready to fire as she lets out a haughty laugh.

“You don’t get it do you? What you two did hurt more than anything! I will never forgive you for it and for that you must pay!” Twilight bears her teeth. She slowly charges her horn, with a demonic look in her eyes at Discord. 

Harmonia and the others watched in fear as Twilight drained Discord, leaving him almost powerless.

“Mom! Don’t!” Harmonia screams, without thought she lungs herself at her mother, knocking Twilight to the ground. 

Twilight aura releases Discord from her grip.

Harmonia quickly conjoined a shielding spell that could protect herself and Discord. 

“Harmony! What do you think you're doing?!” Discord asks. 

“I’m trying to save you duh.” Harmonia explains staying the obvious. 

“You’re going to get hurt. Move out of the way!”  Discord said. 

Twilight let out a laugh, a sicking look was in her eyes. “Oh! You want to play? Then let’s play!” She sneers.

“Mom, listen to yourself! This isn’t you! The real Twilight Sparkle will never hold a grudge against those who oppose her!” Harmonia teared up, charging her magic once more, aiming at her own mother.

“I just want my mom back, I just want my mom back to me...”  She cried a little, charging up her magic to the fullest.

“I loved you, even if you're down in the dumps, I loved you even if you changed!” Harmonia yelled, tears streaming down her cheeks, as she blasted Twilight, sending her to the main seat of the throne room, the big smoke covered the impact, Harmonia painted, looking at the damage she had caused.

Discord looks at Harmonia with awe and concern, he didn’t know what to do, but looked at how her daughter was so independent, that she could stand on her own 4 hooves.

Celestia and Luna were down on the ground, landing painfully to their sides, they looked around them as if the throne room was about to collapse on them all.

“This was my fight to bear…” Celestia said, standing up carefully, but failed to do so as she sprained her front hoof.

Luna quickly stood up, helping her sister.

“You keep pushing yourself to the limit, sister, rest for awhile.” Luna said as she helped her sister up, they looked at Harmonia, still painting from the magic she discharged.

Harmonia fires a beam at her mother. “You know you should really work on your aim!” Twilight sneers, firing a blast. 

Harmonia then holds up another shield, but time her shield was fizzling, slowly evaporating. “What the?” Harmonia said, confused why her spell was backfiring. 

Twilight laughs at her daughter’s failed attempt to protect herself. 

“Twilight,” mutters Celestia, sad to see what her former student and friend has become. 

Twilight looks at the group. A satisfied, but twisted smirk played on her lips. “You really are a bunch of fools! Thinking you could stop me,” she sneers, giving a sarcastic laughter. “Well you are sadly mistaken.” She sneers. 

“Just so you know you know you ponies have a new ruler you will obey and respect now!” Twilight’s eyes narrowed. 

A light cough could be heard from behind Twilight. “Make those two new rulers.” Sombra said, his tone nonchalant as he walks up beside Twilight. 

“Oh hey look it’s that villain we forgot about for half a scene.” Confetti points out.

A deathly glare made by both Twilight and Sombra sent chills down everypony’s spines. 

They were truly done for.
> Chapter 29: The Next Saviors Of Equestria
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“I… I can’t believe the Elements are gone… we… we lost.” Harmonia mutters, looking down at the smashed Elements of Harmony. 

“First the Tree of Harmony is smashed and now the Elements are smashed…. Face it! There is no way we are going to beat both Sombra and my mother.” She mutters. 

“Now’s not a time to lose hope darling.” Rarity said, rubbing her back. 

“Are you kidding?! The Tree Of Harmony is gone because of Sombra, both of them have taken over the Crystal Empire and Canterlot!” Harmonia said, slowly accepting the defeat. 

"Everyone quit your bickering! Can't you see Equestria needs us, It needs you Harmonia!" HoneyCrisp snaps in anger, she looks at the deadly couple distant to them, Twilight's longsword brandished and sharp, Sombra's scythe curved and sharpened. 

"She's right, if there's one thing I learned all throughout my quiet life, It's to be expendable!" Meadow Bliss replies, standing his ground, Celestia and Luna winced from their injuries yet stood up to look at the couple distant to them. 

"Stopping here won't be the answer, we just gotta look forward and beat their flanks!" Prism states, lifting a broadsword on his wing, he then stares at the two menacingly. 

"We may be party animals, but we can learn a thing or two!" Confetti Pop interjects, Cotton Berry goes ahead of his sister standing alongside Prism. 

"And we learned how to care for each other through thick and thin!" Cotton Berry smirks at Confetti Pop who giggles. 

"We're doing this aren't we?" Ophelia questions the group, she sighs as nobody answers her. 

"I learned that even in the most dangerous of scenarios, It's best that we have each other." Ophelia brings out her claws and stares at the couple in front of them. 

Harmonia looks around her, seeing friends stood side by side, Discord and Starlight stood together, their magic charged up, Celestia and Luna stood together with their longsword and halberd carried by magic, she then looks at her mother, whose eyes are narrowed at everyone. 

"Im lucky to have you guys…" Harmonia mutters quietly, a tear falls down from her face, Discord goes to her daughter, and strokes her mane. 

"Let's end this." Discord looks at Twilight, and back to everyone. 

"Once and for all!" Discord states, Sombra summons Darklings all around them, changelings break into the windows and swarms them. 

"Are we gonna do this!?" Confetti gets pumped from all the action around them, one Changeling charged at Prism, Prism smirks as he then slashes the changeling that went towards him, crashing to the ground and sliding onto Confetti Pop, she then knocks the changeling out with a 2x4 piñata stick. 

"It's party time!" Cotton Berry yells as he then brings out a confetti tube and aims for the darkling going towards him, blinding the darkling with confetti he then pushes the darkling towards Harmonia who instantly disintegrates it. 

"Sister watch out!" Luna pushes Celestia away as a darkling pounces its way towards her, Luna thrusts the sword into the darkling then blasting it into smoke with her magic. 

"Thanks!" Celestia knocks a changeling with the blunt end of the halberd, making it dazed, he then shoves the changeling and blasts it with magic, sending it to the wall. 

"Sombra, go after Discord, Celestia is mine!" Twilight waits no longer as she teleports away, Sombra smiles as he turns into black mist and goes after Discord. 

"Now this is what I call, a party!" Confetti Pop laughs maniacally as she brings out the party cannon, blasting a group of changelings headed for them. 

"She sure is pumped for this!" HoneyCrisp bucks a changeling on the face, dazing it, Discord comes in to carry the changeling by the neck, throwing it to the pillar. 

"She's Pinkie Pie's daughter what do you expe-" Discord stops as Sombra appeared beside them, with the scythe at the ready to slash, HoneyCrisp screams as Sombra goes for a side hit, Discord grabs the scythes handle and punched Sombra's face, denting the armor. 

"So we meet again." Discord replies, his tone mocking, Sombra growls in anger as he shoves Discord away and goes for an overhead strike, Discord blasts magic at him, following up with a slash with his claw towards Sombra's chest armor. 

"You'll pay for that!" Sombra snaps as he blasts magic at Discord. 

"How much?" Discord mocks as he disappears out of Sombra's sight, he reappears from above dropping rubble on Sombra, Sombra casts a forcefield to shield him from the rubble falling.

"Get out of here! Now!" Discord yells at HoneyCrisp who nods and runs to tend to Prism and Meadow Bliss, Sombra breaks out of the rubble and blasts magic at Discord.

"Can't you see Discord? She loves me more than you, I provided everything for her, I even cared for h-" Sombra was stopped as Discord teleported down instantly and whipped Sombra using his tail to the face, instantly removing the helmet. 

"I love her more than life itself Sombra!" Discord interjects in anger as he tries to grab Sombra by the neck, Sombra disperses in dark mist and circles around Discord.

"Love her? You left her to suffer and break!" Sombra chuckles, Discord grits his teeth in anger.

"You treated her like a pet!" Discord replies as he snaps his finger, a bright flash of light blinds Sombra and stops circling around Discord.

"And you disgust me for it!" Discord states menacingly, Sombra's eyes open only to meet a punch from Discord once more, Sombra hits his head on the pillar making him lay on the ground, dazed and limp.

"It's time I end this feud!" Discord grabbed Sombra by the neck and slammed him on the pillar behind him once more.

"I don't think so, Romeo!" Discord's eyes widened, Twilight mocks Discord and blasts him out of the way.

"Keep your paws off my stallion, he's a better gentleman than you could ever be!" Twilight spats out in anger as she rushes towards Discord.

Discord stands up only to meet an incoming blade going for him, Discord snaps his fingers, disappearing as the blade hits the marble wall.

"That's right, run away like you used to do." Twilight pulls the sword out with her magic, and it reappears inside its holster.

"I'm not going anywhere!" Discord replies beside Twilight as he blasts her away from Sombra, he looks Twilight dead in the eyes as she ignites her horn.

"So brave, yet so dumb!" Twilight blasts two magic orbs at Discord as she ran towards him, Discord manages to block the first orb but the second one hits him making him stumble back a little, he looked in front to see Twilight going for an overhead strike, he instantly grabs the blade with his paw and talon, Twilight brings the blade down with force as Discord pushes the blade back up, blood dripping from his hands.

"Twilight, I need you to think! Harmonia needs you!" Discord begins to reason with the angry alicorn.

"Harmonia needed both of us, until you bolted and cheated on us like we were cards on your deck!" Twilight snaps as she shoves Discord away and goes for a thrust to the chest, Discord dodges to the left and whips the sword away with his tail, he gets up to look at Twilight, dark magenta aura encloses Twilight as she ignites her horn.

"I made many mistakes! A lot that gave harm to everypony, even to you! But at least let me make it right!" Discord yells at Twilight, tears streaming down his face, Twilight scoffs as she charged her magic.

"You left me alone to be broken into pieces! You hurt me so much…" Twilight starts sobbing as her magic grows bigger, Discord trembles before the amount of magic that emitted from the alicorn, but he steps forward little by little.

"Dad!" Harmonia calls out as she blasts more magic at the changelings surrounding her, Prism rushed in to fend off the remaining changelings.

"I got this! Go!" Prism headbutts the changeling, following up with a slash of his sword from the bottom, sending the changeling up in the air, a party cannon blasts the changeling away from Harmonia.

"What are you waiting for!? GO!" Confetti Pop yells as she grabbed her two by four stick with her mouth and whacked a changeling on the head, knocking it out.

Harmonia had no time to waste, she immediately rushed to her father, who was getting closer to Twilight, Harmonia saw Sombra get up slowly.

"Dad! Behind you!" Harmonia yells frantically, Discord heard the words of his daughter and immediately looked, Sombra swung his scythe towards Discord, Discord managed to grab the handle and tried to push it back.

"Twilight! Please listen, I…" Discord looks back at Twilight, her anger is as high as the mountain, Discord then looks at Sombra, his teeth bared in anger as he stared deep into his soul.

"Go on, say it…" Sombra mocks Discord as he pushes the scythe towards Discord with more force, Harmonia can't move or know what to do at this point, she's frozen, shocked at the sight.

"Discord!" Celestia heads in and impales Sombra with the spear end of the halberd, pushing him out of the way, Sombra loses his grip on the scythe, making Discord wield the weapon.

Twilight's eyes soften a little as her magic begins to lower down a little, she then brings out her longsword and begins to hit from the top, Discord parries the incoming attack, pinning Twilight down to the ground and restraining her.

"Look around you Twilight! The ponies you care about are hurting and are fighting for their lives, you need to stop this, let's talk, please…" Discord pleads, Twilight yells in anger as she blasts Discord out of her way, she then grabs her Longsword and begins to swing from the side this time, grazing Discord's lion fur, he winces and blocks the second incoming attack.

"Tempest! Where's Starlight!" Luna asks the royal guard, Tempest hits the changeling with her staff, following up with a hit from below to overthrow the darkling who lunged at her, she went for a side hit as a changeling rushed for her, hitting the changeling's face and sending it to a wall.

"I do not know Princess Luna!" Tempest replies back as she blasts electricity at the horde of darklings, disintegrating them.


***    


Outside the garden, rays of light blue and lime green streams of magic lazer beams shine through the night, Chrysalis wouldn't go down without a proper fight, Starlight dodged the incoming beam and she fired back, Chrysalis raises a force field around her and fired two orbs of green plasma magic at her, Starlight teleported beside Chrysalis to dodge the incoming orbs, Chrysalis uses her magic to raise to two large chunks of  rubble around Starlight.

"Our game ends here little pony!" Chrysalis states in a rather angry tone, Starlight smirks at that statement and blew a strand of her hair away off her face.

"I'm just getting warmed up Chrysalis!" Starlight mocks back, Chrysalis grunts in anger and immediately uses her magic to crush Starlight with the rubble, she teleports out of the way, smoke engulfing Chrysalis's sight, she looks again and Starlight was not there.

"Right behind you!" Starlight speaks, Chrysalis looks behind only to receive a magical whip to the face with Starlight's magic, the changeling backed off and shook her head from the stinging hit.

"STOP THIS!" Chrysalis yells as she summons aura like spears, each of them fires upon Starlight.

"I'll protect the ponies I love! You won't lay a hoof on a single one... " Starlight creates a force field around her, with some of the spears breaking through her magic she teleports out of the way.

"Oh really now? I have a legion of changelings inside that castle, and everyone's in danger! I don't need to lay a hoof on anypony!" Chrysalis mocks back, Starlight looks at the castle seeing a legion of changelings break into the windows of the throne room, her eyes widened.

"And our plan is going according to plan…" Chrysalis then summons her war spear, with green aura tipped to the blade, Starlight then goes into battle stance.

"Too bad that plan's about to fall into pieces!" Starlight fires three orbs at Chrysalis, she manages to deflect the two incoming orbs but the third hits her face, yelping in pain Starlight rushed towards her.

"And you'll be the first one to fall into pieces!" Starlight yells in anger as she fires a beam at Chrysalis, she blocks the beam but it pushes her back slowly, Starlight concentrates her gaze and magic at Chrysalis in anger.

"You got some guts! I'll make sure to spill it all out!" Chrysalis teleports behind Starlight then thrusts the spear towards the back of her neck, Starlight tilts her head to the side, immediately facing Chrysalis she then fires a beam at Chrysalis, she blocks the beam yet again, slowly pushing her back.

"It's time we end this, Chrysalis!" Starlight yells at her, she then stops firing the beam and fires an orb at Chrysalis, the orb hits her face and the horn, making Chrysalis drop the war spear, she then levitates herself and Chrysalis, making her stop in place, she looks Chrysalis dead in the eyes.

"Let's go for a fly, shall we?" Starlight mocks as Chrysalis struggles very hard, she then charges her magic, Chrysalis feels the grip of the aura around her tightened, she looks at Starlight, a look of fear in her eyes.

"So long!" Starlight then throws Chrysalis towards the castle window, Chrysalis screams distantly, Starlight follows Chrysalis as the changeling slammed herself to the glass window with brute force, Chrysalis lands with a hard thud on the marble floor of the throne room, everyone looks at Chrysalis in shock.

"Chrysalis!?" Fluttershy was shocked, she backed away from her slowly.

"Why you little-" Chrysalis was stopped by Starlight as she pinned Chrysalis down to the ground.

"There she is!" Tempest exclaims as she thrusts the spear within the darkling, she throws the darkling immediately to the wall, making it disperse into black smoke.

"Thank goodness you came back dear!" Rarity exclaims out of relief.    


   ***


Celestia pins Sombra to the wall with the halberd, he yells in pain as he struggles, Celestia begins to charge her magic, her eyes glowing white as the sun's light.

"Your tyranny ends here you cretin!" Celestia yells at Sombra, he looks at Celestia with a grin.

"Tonight will be the end of you!" Sombra summons the scythe that Discord had, leaving him defenseless, Twilight shoves Discord off and blasts him towards Harmonia, he hits the floor with a hard thud, his vision hazy, Harmonia runs to her dad.

"Dad!" Harmonia hugs Discord tightly, he embraced his daughter weakly.

"I'm so sorry, my fuzzball, i'm sorry for everything…" Discord managed to speak out, Harmonia shook her head as tears fell down like a waterfall.

Sombra then swings the scythe's blade towards Celestia's side, the blade pierced the fur and coat to the flesh, she screams in pain as the blade digs in, Sombra yells as he pulls the halberd blade out in pain, he frees himself and threw the halberd to the side, he blasts Celestia out of the way, she hits the broken pillar and hits the floor with a hard thud.

"Sister!" Luna yells, Twilight approaches Sombra and looks at Luna, she then turns her gaze on the injured Celestia, she smirks.

"Poor Celestia, she won't be getting up after that!" She laughs at the sight, she then uses her magic dark magenta aura surrounding both Sombra and Twilight.

"It's been nice chatting, but i have a task to complete!" Twilight mocks, as the two disappeared, Luna turns her attention to Celestia and tends to her.

"Sister! Your wound!" Luna was frantic, she didn't know what to do, Fluttershy ran towards them, seeing Celestia wounded she kept pressure on the punctured side.

"What are you doing?" Luna asks frantically, Fluttershy then looks at Luna.

"Go get me some cloth! I'm gonna make a bandage around the wound!" Fluttershy demanded Luna immediately teleported away to find something to cover the wound.


***


Starlight charges her magic once again, aiming her horn at Chrysalis, she struggles to keep the changeling pinned with her magic while summoning another magic.

"What are you doing darling!" Rarity questions the unicorn who was reciting spells.

"What I should've done long ago!" Starlight answers back, a few seconds later she finishes the spell, she then blasts Chrysalis with the magic.

Nothing happened, Chrysalis laughed and shoved Starlight away, everyone backed away from her, Starlight slams on the wall and when she was about to stand up Chrysalis summoned a war spear and aimed at her.

"Foolish pony, when will you-" Chrysalis stopped as she felt heavy, she looked down to see her hooves turn into stone, she started to breathe heavily.

"What have you done to me!" Chrysalis yells as she struggles, Starlight smirks.

"Goodbye Chrysalis!" She mocks the changeling, the concrete made its way to Chrysalis's head and horn, making her drop the war spear, Chrysalis was now a statue.

"I did it…" Starlight pants from exhaustion, she then looks around.

"Where's Harmonia?" She asks Rarity, her eyes widened as she turns her gaze to see Discord on the ground next to Harmonia who hugged him tightly.

Starlight made her way to Harmonia quickly, but stopped as she saw Discord dazed and weak.

"What happened here!?" Starlight asks in shock, Harmonia immediately hugs Starlight, sobbing louder on her, Starlight embraced her tightly, calming her down.

"It's ok! He's gonna be fine, trust me." Starlight said to Harmonia, she nuzzles Starlight out of fright, this only made Starlight brush Harmonia's mane and kissed her forehead.

"Discord will be fine, he's just exhausted." Tempest approached Discord and her horn casted a yellow beam of magic at Discord, slowly healing him.

"M-Mom got away…" Harmonia chokes out, Starlight looks at the giant door to the foyer of the castle, seeing a blood trail.

"Whatever you guys did, it didn't end well for one of them." She narrows her eyes at the trail, AppleJack follows the trail along with Rarity and Rainbow Dash.

"It's ok kiddo, let's go after them!" Starlight convinces Harmonia, she nods weakly, Starlight let's go and follows Rarity and the rest.

"WE DID IT!" Confetti Pop screams out loud.

"It's not over yet Confetti!" Ophelia snaps, Prism smacks his head out of annoyance, Meadow Bliss shakes his head in annoyance.

"WHAT!? WE DID IT!" Confetti swings the stick to the statue by accident, the statue tilts to the side slowly.

"CONFETTI POP!" Everypony yells at her, as the statue slams on the ground with hard impact, the statue of Chrysalis is now on the ground, shattered into medium pieces.

"Oops…" Confetti Pop giggles nervously, everyone groans in anger and disappointment.

“I’ll go get the broom.” Luna mutters. 

“I’ll go get the ash jar...” Celestia explains. 

“What’s an ash jar...” Starlight asked. 

“Oh nothing....” Celestia mutters. 

“It’s about time she got what she deserves!” Rainbow Dash chants. 

“Darling, this is a brutal sight for this kids.” Rarity scolds. 

Rainbow Dash scoffs. “Brutal?! They’ve seen far worse than this Rarity!” 

“Yeah, besides I got to play for honor.” Prism smiles. 

“What’s for honor?” HoneyCrisp asked, slightly confused. 

“Uh you guys, maybe later that can be explained. We still have two main villains to  battle, you know?” Harmonia said, her eyebrow arched.

"She’s right, we have to move!" Starlight orders everyone, as they rush to the foyer.

"Nice going sis…" Cotton Berry adds up to the injury to insult.

"What!? She's a villain! You know what, let's just go!" Confetti grabbed the stick with her mouth and went after the rest. 


***.


The kids peek around the corner of the destroyed throne room, Twilight and Sombra both celebrating that they are finally victorious not just of the Crystal Empire, Ponyville and Canterlot, but all of Equestria. 

Harmonia watches from afar, eavesdropping and watching her mother and KIng Sombra’s moves carefully. 

Twilight sat upon Celestia’s throne, as she grinned wickedly at her success and that her plan had finally fallen into place and that she had won.

“That throne truly does suit you, My Queen.” Sombra said, he had a grin plastered on his face.

“You look like a pretty queen on that throne mother.” Stormy said, smiling at her. 

“That throne doesn’t even belong to you!” Confetti Pop yells, her tone rather angry. 

Sombra, Twilight and Stormy look around the throne room. Twilight’s eyes narrowed, Sombra blasted a hole in the wall where the sound was coming from. “Confetti Pop!” The group scolds.

Harmonia sighs, knowing that the jig was up. She and the others stepped through the hole that Sombra had created for them.

 “You won’t be fitting that throne for too long mother.” Harmonia sneeres.  

“Want to bet?” Twilight sneers, her eyes narrowed at her daughter. 

“You wanna bet? Cavalry's here now!” Prism said. 

“Ha! What cavalry?” Sombra asked, he fired a spell at Harmonia and her friends, trapping them within the crystal walls.

“Hey let us out of here!” Ophelia hisses, firing her horn. However, the spell backfired on them.  

“You know for a feline, it's adorable that you think that measly spell of yours will do anything.” Sombra coos at her. 

As Harmonia’s friends glared at him, she then tried her paw at magic this time around, Harmonia snapped her paw and summoned a boxing glove, however instead of it being on the outside of the crystal cage it was on the inside with them. 

“Duck!” Opheliah screams. 

“Oh, I like ducks, and geese and birds.” HoneyCrisp said. 

Ophelia grabs HoneyCrisps mane and pulls it down. 

“Thanks…” HoneyCrisp mutters. 

Sombra laughs. “Besides, Why should I be scared of a bunch of children when I can show you your greatest fear.” Sombra sneers as he ignites his horn, causing shadow tendrils to levitate Harmonia and her friends into mid-air. 

He fires another spell, causing him to fire a spell and hypnotizing them causing them to go into fear status. 

Harmonia squeezes her eyes shut, trying to fight the battle to let Sombra have control over her, but once she opens them they are shown dark green. 


***

Harmonia fear: 

“You really think you’re worthy? Worthy of being the next pony crown?” Ophelia sasses.

“Why so you can steal it?” Harmonia asked.  

“You are nothing and you always deserve to be nothing. No wonder your dad left.” Prism said. 

“Maybe he was ashamed of you.” HoneyCrisp sassed. 

“HoneyCrisp!” Harmonia snaps. 

She saw that her other friends and family were under Sombra’s control. 

“No…” Harmonia wimped. “Meadow Bliss, Confetti Pop, Aunt Starlight, Flurry, Trixie…” 

“This can’t be happening…” Harmonia thought. 

She rubs her eyes and is now founded back in the presence of Celestia, Discord and Luna. 

“W-what?” Hamonia asked, slightly speechless by what was happening.  

“Oh, Harmony would you like to know the real reason why I married Celestia?” Discord asked.

“D-Dad?!” Harmonia asked. 

“You know now that you mention it… not really.” Harmonia mutters. 

“Ever heard of a sanctioned affair?” Celestia asked. 

“B-but mom would never agree to have that with you!” Harmonia shouts. 

“Who says anything about not telling her? You know that night that your father never returned?” Celestia asked. 

Harmonia furrowed her eyebrows. “H-he’s never returned a good bit of times.” she mutters. 

“And where do you think he was all this time….” Celestia said, her voice sly. 

“Y… you lied to me… that time you  stayed gone for an hour, you were really with her?!” Harmonia asked, tears aligned in her eyes. 

“This has got to be some type of nightmare….” Harmonia said. 

“Oh hun, this isn’t a nightmare this is reality.” Luna said.

***


Harmonia's eyes glowed as she snapped out of her dazed state, her eyes filled with tears as well as her friends, she would really hate to know what their fears were. 

“How did you manage to break my spell?” Sombra asked. 

“It’s called the magic of friendship or whatnot.” Confetti Pop said. 

“It doesn’t matter, while you were still in your state of fear if you forgot then here’s a friendly reminder: You’re still trapped.” Stormy said, smirking at them. 

“Are they now?” Phoenix said, her tone confident as Kunzite set fire to the dark crystals breaking them. 

“You!” Twilight said, firing her horn at Phoenix, knocking her off balance. 

“Oh no you don’t!” Sunset said, firing her magic at Twilight. 

Twilight sneers, as she watches Sunset pull her daughter closer to her. 

Twilight then looks at her daughter and her friends who were now free from their Crystal imprisonment. “How do you exactly plan to win? You don’t exactly have the Elements you know.” Twilight mocks, giving a sly smile to them. 

Harmonia looks at herself, slightly doubting if what she has planned will actually work, but she smiles to herself once she feels her friend’s presence within the room and is joined by her side. 

“Yeah because you destroyed them!” Confetti Pop said. 

“But what we know is this! You three can try to knock us down as many times as you want, even without the Elements of Harmony our friendship still remains strong, maybe even stronger than before!” HoneyCrisp said. 

“She’s right! No matter how many towns, cities, or heck even if you rule over all of Equestria… which you have… nothing conquers evil and tyranny reign overall than the love and light of friendship.” Ophelia said, standing beside Harmonia. 

Harmonia then realizes something. 
 
“After everything that’s happened, after everything we’ve been through... that I’ve been through I know that with these guys by my side, I’m not afraid of you! Or how much power you hold!” Harmonia said. 

Sombra and Twilight smirked at her.

“You should be.” Sombra said, firing a blast, which sends Harmonia halfway across the throne room. 

Harmonia screams. 

“Harmonia!” They shouted. 

Harmonia stood up slowly, standing her ground, her magic charged. 

“Nice to see you finally have some confidence took you long enough. However, you should save that sentimental speech of yours. You're just stalling and wasting time.” Twilight muses, her eyes narrowed at them. 

"Have you forgotten who's domain you are in!" Sombra stares at Harmonia, his stare deadly and his smirk mocking.

Harmonia stood with pride, walking towards her friends slowly. "Harmonia come with us!" Sunset calls out, looking down at Harmonia with worry.

"You'll never take away my friends…" Harmonia speaks out, going to her friends in pain from the blast.

Sombra fires magic at Harmonia once again, Harmonia screams in pain as she falls down back to the ground with force.

"Persistent now aren't we?" Sombra mocked back at her as he stood up from the throne seat.

Harmonia gets up weakly, her hooves shaking.

"Sweet Celestia, Harmonia!" HoneyCrisp rammed herself on the crystal wall, trying to get out, the rest did the same.

"You'll never take away the family I cherish!" Harmonia yells out this time, charging up her magic.

"Put her down for me Sombra." Twilight commands Sombra, her tone nonchalant about it.

"Don't tell me twice!" Sombra fires magic at Harmonia, she only stands there as the magic blast hits her, sending her back to the ground.

"No! Harmonia!" Prism yells in despair as he rammed the crystal cage, to no avail.

She tries to get up, her arms shaking and weak from the hits she took.

"You'll never take away friendship…" Harmonia speaks out, as she charges her horn and aims for the crystal cage.

"Besides, we're about to kick your flank…" Harmonia smirks at them, the couple's eyes widened from the amount of strength she has.

"How is she not down Sombra!" Twilight snaps.

"Persistent little pony…" Sombra mutters to himself.

Harmonia fires magic at the cage, turning it into flowers as it falls into pieces.

"Really?" HoneyCrisp looks with a disappointed look.

"Do you want to go back in there?" Harmonia said sarcastically.

"You know what, let's do this." HoneyCrisp looks at the couple, her glare menacing.

“Now where was we in our speech before we were so rudely interrupted.” Harmonia asked. 

“Who cares?! We’ve done enough sappy speeches! Let’s light them up ladies!!!... a-and gentlemen!” Confetti shouts. 

Sombra summons his scythe at the ready, his horn charging up magic at the same time, Twilight stood up from her seat and drew out her longsword, glaring at them, Stormy charged her magic, aiming it at the group.

"A powerful force to be reckoned with, a storm that provides death!" Sombra stated, his tone now angry.

"Enough with your edgy gothic statements and let’s fight!" Prism yells at Sombra as he charges forward with the broadsword on his wing.

Sombra turns into mist as he charges forward towards Prism, his scythe at the ready.

"You're the first one to taste my wrath!" Sombra appeared quickly, the scythe was about to strike from above.

"Try me!" Prism deflected the incoming strike, he grabbed the broadsword with his mouth, flying quickly towards Sombra, the blade hit the ground in time of the deflect and Prism delivered a slash to the chest.

Sombra yelled in pain as he saw Prism behind him, looking back at Sombra.

"What are you guys waiting for? Have at them!" Sombra swings his scythe around to hit Prism, he parries the attack and riposted with a slash.

"You heard him, have at them!" Cotton Berry charged in with his horn a glow, following Harmonia and the rest.

"Mom, what do we do!?" Stormy asks.

"Simple, we kill them!" Twilight rushed towards the incoming group.

Harmonia fires a blast at Twilight and Stormy that knocks them off balance. Magic surges within her. 

“Enough is enough! We don’t need the Elements or even help from our parents to take you down! You can knock us down time and time again, but we will get back up and again until we finish this and you! You will fall and your reign will end today!” Harmonia said, firing a blast. 

Twilight moves out of the way, she charges her own magic at her daughter firing it, a battle between good and evil is happening at this very moment. “What’s the problem dear, too scared to fight back?” Twilight said, giving her a sly smile. 

“I don’t want to hurt you!” Harmonia said, her teeth bared. 

“I don’t think she has a problem with that!” Cotton Berry replied as he blasts magic back at Twilight and Stormy.

"But she's my mom!" Harmonia looks at Twilight.

"There are two ways out of this dear, either stop your mother from world domination, or suffer its consequences!" Ophelia said as she stood beside Meadow Bliss.

"I'm no longer your mother!" Twilight yells as she blasts magic at them, Cotton Berry moves back as the impact makes an explosion on the ground.

"Anymore bright ideas?" HoneyCrisp asks.

"Yeah, i got a few!" Harmonia said nervously.

"Well if you got one, now's the time to use one!" Prism yells back at them as he fended off Sombra.

"Alright! Cotton Berry, HoneyCrisp, take care of little Miss. Independent over there!" Harmonia points at Stormy who was firing magic at Confetti Pop, she fires back with her party cannon.

"Me and Ophelia will try to stop mom!" Ophelia nods at the plan.

"But the problem is dear, I don't have magic." Ophelia giggles nervously.

"You got nine lives right?" Harmonia smirks at Ophelia, making her blush.

"Oh stop it you…" Ophelia coos.

"Guys, plan!" HoneyCrisp calls out again, making Ophelia snap out of it.

"Right, the plan!" She says to herself.

"Anytime now girls, I'm getting bored!" Twilight mocks as she rushed at the four.

"Guys, now!" Harmonia uses magic to disappear out of Twilight's sight, making her stop in her tracks.

"There's no point in hiding!" Twilight calls out.

Cotton Berry and HoneyCrisp rushed for Stormy who was oblivious to their presence.

"Hey!" Cotton Berry called, Stormy looks at him with a glare, she then blasts magic at Cotton Berry who sets up a forcefield around himself.

"Now Honey!" Cotton Berry calls out.

HoneyCrisp comes out from the side, tackling Stormy as they rolled down the throne seat staircase.

"You good for nothing farm pony!" Stormy snaps as she blasts HoneyCrisp away, HoneyCrisp rolls away from Stormy, she gets up quickly glaring at Stormy.

"I get that a lot!" HoneyCrisp smirks at her.

"Oh you're gonna get more than just a blast!" Stormy mocks back as she fires a beam at HoneyCrisp, she rolls away quickly and runs up to Stormy.

"You just don't have the muscle to stand up against me, in a physical fight!" HoneyCrisp turns around and bucks Stormy on the face.

"Now that's gotta hurt!" Cotton Berry looks away from the hit he saw.

Stormy stumbles around, feeling dazed and her vision blurry.

"What kind of horsepower is this!?" Stormy asks, her tone surprised.

"It's called hard work, and let me tell you something but hard work!" She then hovers above Stormy.

"It's about getting your hooves dirty!" She delivers a kick right onto Stormy's face, she falls down to the ground hard, knocking her out.

"And by your standards, you got none." She blew her bangs away from her eyes.

"I never knew you were-" Cotton Berry was silenced by HoneyCrisp.

"Save it for apple bucking season." HoneyCrisp smirks at Cotton Berry.

"Behind you!" Cotton Berry yells as Stormy blasts HoneyCrisp away, she then glares at Cotton Berry.

"Don't lecture me about hard work! We've done enough to take this castle!" She snaps at HoneyCrisp who winced in pain from the blast.

"Now, where were we?" Stormy charged up her horn, smirking at Cotton Berry.

"I'm gonna have to say hard pass!" He blasts magic at Stormy who created a forcefield.

"You got it!" HoneyCrisp replies back as she flies in and grabs Stormy, they both fly in the air as Stormy struggles.

"It's nice to feel the breeze, that I can tell you, especially when you're about to do a free fall!" HoneyCrisp mocks Stormy as she throws her back to the ground with brute force, Cotton Berry follows up with two magic blasts, sending Stormy to a pillar nearby.

Stormy's eyes narrowed at the two who approached her.

"I'm done playing games!" Stormy gets up quickly, blasting Cotton Berry away, she then flew towards HoneyCrisp and grabs her, she then rams HoneyCrisp to some broken window panes and hurls her down at the broken pieces, she yells in pain.

"You're not the only mare who can sweep me off my hooves!" Stormy charges her magic, aiming her horn at HoneyCrisp, Cotton Berry blasts Stormy from behind, she turns around and fires a beam at him.

"Oh no you don't!" She then gets up and flies towards Stormy tackling her, Stormy disappears as they flew halfway across the room.

"Where is she!?" HoneyCrisp asks.

"Behind you!" Cotton Berry yells as Stormy was about to fire her magic at her.

HoneyCrisp turned around quickly, delivering a quick buck to the stomach, Stormy curled up as she felt a very heavy amount of pain wave through her stomach.

"My turn…" HoneyCrisp glares at Stormy, she tackles Stormy and flies to a broken pillar, as Stormy growls at her. 

“You're not winning that easily, farm girl. Now time to finish you both.” Stormy said, igniting her horn. 


***


Harmonia and Ophelia hid behind a broken pillar, they observed the area they were in as Twilight circled around.

"So, what's the plan?" Ophelia whispers, Harmonia looks around for anything to use to their favor.

"The area is open, we won't have any cover whatsoever, we can try to tire her out?" Harmonia figures, Ophelia nods.

"And how do we do that?" Ophelia questions.

"Oh I don't know Ophelia! I'm under pressure as it is!" Harmonia snaps, Twilight sliced the base of the broken pillar in-between them, both had their eyes widened at that.

"Found you!" Twilight laughs as she fires magic at them.

"Run!" Harmonia disappears and Ophelia bolts out of the way, Twilight had her eyes on Ophelia.

"You can't run forever, you'll get tired either way!" Twilight sneers at Ophelia.

"That's it!" Ophelia figured out a plan.

"Catch me if you can!" Ophelia mocks Twilight as she pounces on platform to platform.

"Oh when I do, I'll make you suffer!" Twilight teleports after Ophelia.

“That’s if you can catch me first.” Ophelia said, blowing a raspberry. 

She gets on all fours and legit begins to run like a cat, using her horn to make the coliseums crumble behind her. 

“You won’t have nine lives left once I’m done with you!” Twilight said, lifting the fallen coliseums. 

“Are you sure it’s nine? I mean I am half pony after all.” Ophelia smirks. 

“If this is your way of distracting her then keep it up.” Harmonia said. 

“You know Princess, we are very thankful for you to be taking over Celestia and Luna’s ruling! Those two did absolutely nothing since they’ve ruled, but with you… you’ve changed the way Equestria thinks.” Ophelia said.

“Flattery won’t get you anywhere dear.” Twilight sneers. 

“Oh it’s not flattery it’s simply the truth.” Ophelia said. 

Twilight narrows her eyes at her. “....okay it is flattery, but you really should take it as a compliment.” Ophelia said. 

“The last time someone else did that it was your father, let’s just say things didn’t end too great for him… so flirty isn’t very much of an option for you darling.” Twilight muses. 

Ophelia drops her guard. “What did you do to him…” She asked. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know….” Twilight sneers, charging her horn. 

“Ophelia! Watch out!” Harmonia shouts, holding up a force field around her friend. 

“I’m sure your dad is alright! She’s just using that as a distraction to take you down!” Harmonia said. 

Twilight fires a beam, it hits through the forcefield, Ophelia runs out of it as the forcefield and pounces from platform to platform.

"Come on! It's gonna be a quick talk!" Twilight fires a beam at the platform, as Ophelia landed on one of the broken platforms she had enough force to jump towards Twilight, her claws ready to slash her.

"Poor choice of action!" Twilight grabs Ophelia with her magic and slams her on the ground, creating a small crater.

"Ophelia!" Harmonia yells as she teleports down.

"Your father might have lived, but I'll make sure you don't!" Twilight raises the longsword, Ophelia opens her eyes slowly, seeing a blade on top of her.

"Don't hurt her!" Harmonia teleports in front of Ophelia, creating a forcefield around them, Twilight thrusts the sword in the forcefield, Harmonia smirks.

"Face it mom, It's over!" Harmonia stood in front of Ophelia, she got up slowly and looked at Harmonia.

"Thank you…" Ophelia groans as she stands up, Harmonia smiles at her.

"We've got unfinished business!" Harmonia turns around to Twilight, her eyes glaring at her.

"Take the hint sweetie, your world's falling apart!" Twilight mocks as she fires a beam at the forcefield, Harmonia holds onto Ophelia and they both teleport away from the blast. 

“Not if I have anything to say about it.” Harmonia said, reappearing in front of her and blasting magic at her but Twilight blocks it as Harmonia magic blasts a nearby window. 

“Hey! That was Flurry’s stained glass window from her Crystalling.” Harmonia said. 

Ophelia joins her. “We have to get out of here. So we can finally stop your mother and Sombra for good.” Ophelia whispers to her. 

Harmonia looks at Ophelia with another plan of her own, she then looks around the open area seeing free space all around them.

"Follow me!" Harmonia shoots down a pillar with her magic, creating a big wall of smoke from the impact, Twilight coughed and waved the smoke away.

"Oh that wasn't nice! You're ruining the decor!" Twilight calls out, as the smoke cleared, Twilight couldn't believe what she saw, multiple Harmonia's pleading and crying all around her, she groaned in annoyance.

"This won't stop me Harmonia! Come out!" She blasts the clones around one by one, Harmonia and Ophelia were hidden behind the broken down pillar.

"Here's the plan, and don't mess this up! If this plan blows were out of options! Got it?" Harmonia looks at Ophelia, Ophelia nodded rapidly.

"Alright, we need to fake my surrender!" Harmonia states, Ophelia looks at confusion.

"Fake what now?" She asks.

"What I mean is, we make Sombra and my mom think that I already lost!" Harmonia says as she looks up, still seeing Twilight shoot the clones with her magic.

"We need Aunt Starlight's help so she can make a clone of me with my mom when "me" and her enter the throne room!" She states, Ophelia nods.

"And when "I" and my mom go inside, my clone will say all this lovey dovey farewell stuff, and that's where we move, we need to tell the others! Once we tell the others I'll distract my mom with my last clone!" Ophelia nods rapidly, trying to remember everything she said, but a slight red blush crosses her face.

"Is everything ok?" Harmonia asks.

"Nothing, lets go…" Ophelia and Harmonia teleport away from the area, letting Twilight blast never ending clones of Harmonia.


***


Harmonia's friends were gathered in one area as the mane 5 fended Sombra off, HoneyCrisp looked at Stormy who was out cold.

"Sure showed her." HoneyCrisp mocked, Cotton Berry chuckles.

Distant to them was Starlight and Rarity fending off the shadows around them, they both blast away the shadows with their magic as the horde continue to flood.

"Miss Glimmer!" Ophelia yelled at Starlight who was still firing magic at the shadow horde, she groans.

"Miss Glimmer! I have something to tell you!" Starlight looked around, her glare deadly and her horn charged with magic, but softened as she saw Ophelia in front of her.

"Oh, Ophelia! I almost shot you!" Starlight said, giggling nervously, Ophelia smiled nervously but brushed it off.

"Harmonia has a plan to end this nightmare!" Ophelia whispers the rest to Starlight as she made a forcefield around them both.


***


Harmonia thinks for a moment. “...... okay I give up.” Harmonia said. 

“Wait… what?!” Ophelia asked, looking at her friend.

“I said, I give up.” Harmonia looks at her mother, who held a satisfied smirk on her face. 

“You win mom… yo- you and Sombra win.” Harmonia said, hanging her head low in defeat. 

“It’s about time you see things my way! Took you long enough too. Now say goodbye to your little friend. You won’t be seeing Equestria the same after tonight.” Twilight said. 

Ophelia looks at her friend in confusion as Harmonia goes up and hugs her. She then whispers something into the feline’s ear before Twilight interrupts the hug. “Let’s go.” she said, before walking out of the foyer to go find Sombra and Stormy. 


*** 


Twilight and Harmonia walk down the long hallway, avoiding falling debris and shattered glass from the stained glass windows that were already broken. 

They stayed silent for a good ten minutes. “..... why are you doing this?” Harmonia asked, her voice was slightly inaudible, but Twilight still overheard. 

“When you're hurt, broken down and in pain. Heartache leads you to do the unimaginable things.” Twilight said, her tone monotones. 

“.... and I think I found out why dad did… what he did.” Harmonia mutters. 

Twilight sighs and rolls her eyes. “You’re still hung up on that?” Her tone filled with distaste. 

“You really should let go of that. I have.” Twilight muses. 

“That’s because you were forced to!” Harmonia shouts. 

Twilight stops in her tracks, and quickly turns to face her daughter. 

Before Harmonia had a chance to react, Twilight already struck a hoof against her daughter’s cheek. She felt like she got a fast whiplash from a magical blast, she dared cry in front of her though. 

“Great, now I’m the bad guy here… Just fantastic.” Twilight said, her voice full of sarcasm. 

“Now let’s go before one of us says something she’ll regret!” Twilight said, her teeth bared. 


***


Twilight and Harmonia made their way into the foyer, Harmonia notices Celestia and Luna broken thrones which were replaced by dark crystals. The atmosphere felt damp, moody and egotistical. 

“And who do we have here?” Sombra asked, he lifts Harmonia chin up but she seats him away. 

“Stubborn like your mother I see? Don’t worry in due time you will break.” Sombra said. 

“That’s what you think! You will not lay a hair on her head!” Discord said. 

“Dad it’s okay… I decided to go with them.” Harmonia mutters. 

“You what?!” Starlight shrieks. 

“Harmonia sweetie, there is another way. There has to be…” Starlight mutters. 

“No, it’s okay…” Harmonia said, giving her a light smile.

“Can we at least say goodbye to Harmonia?” Meadow Bliss asked. 

“Yes, but make it quick or we shall take lethal measures.” Twilight said, watching her daughter. 

Prism approached first, trying to fight off tears, he stared at Harmonia as she went closer.

"Now before, b-before we…" Prism couldn't finish his sentence, he already began crying in front of Harmonia, she went near him and hugged him tightly, Harmonia nuzzled him, and this made Prism wail like a little colt.

"It's ok, it's ok…" Harmonia whispered to his ear as she brushed his mane.

"But why!?" HoneyCrisp whimpers. 

“Guys I’ll be okay! Equestria will survive without me.” Harmonia assures them. 

“Equestria maybe can survive without their upcoming Princess, but we can’t survive without our friend!” Confetti Pop whimpers. 

Harmonia tears up from that, and hugs Confetti Pop tightly, Confetti sobs silently on her shoulders, feeling her friends embrace for the last time, as Harmonia was about to let go Confetti hugged her tightly.

"Don't go, please…" Confetti sniffles, HoneyCrisp grabs Confetti Pop and pries her off of Harmonia who nodded at HoneyCrisp, she fought her tears back and nodded back at Harmonia, Confetti Pop struggles as HoneyCrisp held her tightly, Confetti couldn't hold it in, she wailed, reaching out for Harmonia.

"It's ok sugar cube, it's gonna be ok…" HoneyCrisp embraces Confetti Pop, who hugged back tightly.

"Aunt Starlight…" Harmonia faces Starlight, her tears rapidly falling as she looked at Harmonia one last time.

"I love you sweet heart…" Starlight sniffles at that, Harmonia hugs Starlight tightly, she neared Starlight's ear and whispered.

"Now…" She smirks, Harmonia dispersed into a giant cloud of smoke, everyone was in shock as the smoke settled in, everyone was confused, including Twilight who growled in anger.

"Of course, another trick!" Twilight said to herself in disappointment.

"Come out!" Twilight yelled at the smoke filled air.

HoneyCrisp looked around to find somepony nearby, but she was instantly tugged by something, as she was tugged she bumps onto Cotton Berry beside her and the rest bumped into each other.

"What the!?" HoneyCrisp looked around her, seeing all of her friends together, as the smoke cleared, everypony couldn't believe who they just saw in front of them, Starlight stood in front of them.

"Harmonia!?" Everyone said in unison as they saw Harmonia standing tall and proud, Confetti Pop smiled.

"You're alive!" Confetti Pop embraced Harmonia tightly, Harmonia giggles and nuzzles her.

"How? You were-" Sombra didn't get a chance to finish as Starlight glared at him.

"Distraction." Harmonia said, her tone nonchalant.

"Everypony, stand together!" Harmonia ordered, she glares at Twilight who brought out her longsword out of its holster.

"In the midst of any tyranny, I learned something today!" Harmonia charges her magic to the fullest, bright magenta aura emitted from her in the process.

"What is this?" Sombra looked at them, and his eyes widened.

"The magic of friendship lives deep inside of us! And with the help of my friends, they made me see the mare who I am today!" Harmonia says proudly, her friends smiled.

"The feeling of generosity!" Ophelia started emitting a light blue aura.

"The care of kindness!" Meadow Bliss emitted yellow aura.

"The joy of laughter!" Confetti and Cotton emits light pink aura.

"The words of honesty!" HoneyCrisp emits light orange aura.

"The heart of loyalty!" Prism emits ocean blue aura.

She looks behind her, seeing her friends channeling the magic they have within them.

"But most importantly, the loving embrace of friendship!" Harmonia channeled everyone's magic into her horn, and aimed it at Twilight who pointed the sword at her.

"Twilight don't!" Sombra yells at Twilight, but she didn't listen.

"We don't need the elements, because friendship, Is magic!" Harmonia smiles at Sombra and Twilight.

"Not this time! You hear me! Not this time!" Twilight yelled at everypony in front of her.

"Now!" Starlight yells, Harmonia releases a colorful beam of magic towards Twilight, she blocks the beam with her sword, but the force of the beam pushes her back a little.

"It's not enough!" HoneyCrisp yells, Starlight fires a beam of magic at Twilight, supporting the first beam.

"I love you mom!" Harmonia yells, as she delivers the final blast, sending Twilight back to the staircase of the throne seats, the blast knocks Twilight out.

"NO!" Sombra yells, he got up and summoned his scythe.

Sombra then gets caught within the magical blast designating him into smoke. 

A bright aura illuminates the entire room. Casting the throne room into a blindingly bright white light. 

The children lay on the floor, exhausted and tired, but still breathing and alive.

HoneyCrisp was the first to awaken. “Is everypony okay?” She calls out. 

“Yeah, we’re fine.” Cotton Berry said, signaling that both him and Prism were okay. 

“Us too, darling.” Ophelia said, calling out for both her and Confetti Pop. 

Harmonia groans, slowly awaking. She rubs her head. “Did it work?” Harmonia groans. 

Confetti bounces over to her friend, with giddy she hugs the draconequus. “Yay! Harmonia you did.” She beams. 

Harmonia softly shakes her head. “No we did it.” Harmonia said, giving her friends a soft smile. 

Twilight groans, awaking from her daze. “W- what happened? Harmonia?” Twilight said, looking at her daughter and friends. 

Harmonia looked over to the pony who was calling her name, tears filled her eyes. “Mom? Mom!” She said, she lunged herself at her mother- her real mother. 

“Can somepony please explain what the hay is going on?!” Twilight asked, slightly confused still. 

“You don’t remember anything?” Sunset questions. 

"The spell she's inflicted with must've triggered a second persona in her, which is harsh for mental stability, but she'll recover." Starlight smiled at Twilight, she then looked at the area, trying to feel the atmosphere.

"Do you think they'll come back?" Tempest questions as they gaze at the swarm of changelings flying away and shadows disappearing.

"From what you just saw, I think not dear." Rarity says, Ophelia rushed to her mother and hugged her tightly.

"Thank goodness it's over!" Fluttershy said as she walked to Rarity with Meadow Bliss beside her.

"Did you see what happened! Everything went to shambles and-" Pinkie Pie was stopped by Rainbow Dash who chuckled.

"Yeah, we saw what happened, our kiddo's got the magic." Rainbow Dash ruffled his son’s mane, Prism giggles.

"I'm just glad my babies are safe!" Pinkie Pie hugged both Confetti Pop and Cotton Berry tightly.

"So sugar cube, hard work paid off?" Applejack went to her daughter and helped her clear her wings of the small shards that HoneyCrisp crashed into.

"You bet mom, you bet." HoneyCrisp hugged her mother tightly.

"I know it did baby girl." Applejack embraces her daughter.

Twilight looked at them, a sense of longing seemed to pass over her for just a while, she looked down at her daughter, who sobbed to no end, tears filled Twilight's eyes as she placed her hoof on her daughter's chin and raised it up to meet her daughter's gaze.

"I-i missed you, mom!" Harmonia managed to speak out, Twilight pulled her daughter into a hug, they both embraced each other, letting all their sorrows out.

"It's ok sweetie, it's ok, mommy's here." Twilight rocked her daughter slowly, Harmonia wails, hiding her face in between her mother's neck, Twilight did nothing and let her release every longing she kept.

Everypony looked at them both, smiling at the fact that Harmonia, at long last, to be with the family she belonged to.

"D-don't leave me, ever a-again!" Harmonia managed to speak out, Twilight pulled away from the embrace and kissed her daughter's forehead, tears falling down Twilight's face as she saw her daughter all grown up.

"I'll never leave you, never again sweetheart!" Twilight embraced her daughter once more, this time crying.

"I'm so sorry, Harmonia…" Twilight wrapped her wings around her daughter, to make her feel comfort and secure, Harmonia wails, embracing her mother tightly.

Twilight looks at her friends, ashamed of what she has done to them, she can't bear to think of the horrors she's done to them.

"It's alright Twilight, we know it wasn't you." Starlight said as she sat down beside Twilight, rubbing her back.

"I'm sorry Starlight…" Twilight pulled Starlight in for the hug using her wing, and hugged both Harmonia and Starlight together.

"It's okay, Twilight." Starlight hugs back, embracing Harmonia as well.

I'm sorry, everypony!" Twilight cried out, the mane 5 approached her and gave her a special group hug.

"It's all over dear, no more pain." Rarity said in a comforting voice, rubbing Twilight's back.

"Well, at least the gang's back together." Sunset smiles at the sight, Spike nodded and went up to Twilight.

"Hey Twi, it's been awhile." Spike said, as he kneeled down at them.

"Sunset's over there, she and Starlight looked out for your daughter, the best aunts Harmonia could ever ask for." With that said, Sunset felt a tear stream down her face, Phoenix wiped it away, Sunset smiles.

"Hey you know what this calls for!?" Pinkie Pie asks, Confetti Pop immediately interrupts.

"A party!?" Confetti beams.

"That's what i was gonna say!" Pinkie and Confetti laughed, the rest of the group of friends laughed, everything seemed to look right, in fact everything seems back to normal.


***


Pinkie Pie’s “Welcome Back” party was a hit almost everypony was there, of course the party had to be hosted within the castle walls. 

“Twilight! It's so great to have you back!” Cadence beams. 

“Indeed!” Luna said, smiling. 

Cadence receives a hug from the two Alicorns, and her nieces. She smiles warmly at them, but she was also missing one very important pony. 

Celestia. 

“Would you guys excuse me for a second?” Twilight asks. 


*** 


Twilight wanders the castle looking for the pony who she definitely owes an apology too. 

She notices her mentor, who was sitting out on Twilight’s balcony, looking up at the sky basking in the glow of her afternoon sun. 

“.... I thought I might find you here.” Twilight said, softly smiling. 

Celestia ears perked up at the sound of Twilight’s voice. “Twilight? Why aren’t you enjoying your party?” Celestia asked. 

“I just thought of something to do that is far more important.” Twilight said.

Celestia smiles at Twilight, she turned to face her former equal, Twilight noticed that her front hoof was sprained. “.... What… what happened to your hoof?” Twilight questions. 

“Oh… it doesn’t matter.” Celestia mutters. “I’ll be fine, trust me I’ve endured far worse in my time of ruling.” 

Silence befallen between Celestia and Twilight for the next thirty minutes. 

Twilight couldn't bear to look at her mentor in the eyes. She felt awful for what happened between the two. 

“I know it was my fault…” Twilight mutters. 

“Twilight,” Celestia began, but Twilight cut her off. 

“I'm sorry for everything that has happened… I-” Twilight was about to begin to apologise, but her mentor cut her off.

“Twilight, none of this is your fault. I'm the one who should be apologizing. I know my sorry will not cut for the actions I have caused and the pain I have inflicted upon you. I never meant for any of this to hurt you.” Celestia explains. 

“Well at least you didn't try to take over Equestria.” Twilight smirks. 

Her smirk faulted into a frown. “I gave into my own insecurities and anger. I let my emotions get the best of me and it fueled me into wanting to take over Equestria.” 

“You couldn't have known.” Celestia mutters. 

“And you wouldn't have turned on Equestria if it wasn't for us.” Came another voice. 

It was Discord. 

Discord came over to Celestia and looked back at Twilight. “Twilight we didn't mean any of this to happen.” Discord explains, his tone full of sorrow. 

“Discord, why couldn't you just tell me the truth?” Twilight asks. 

Discord sighes. “I am not sure what came over me, I was a coward in doing so. None of this shouldn't have happened. I hurt the two most important ponies in my life. I don't expect you to forgive me right off the bat, but I hope that you know that I still care about you and Harmonia so very much.” Discord explains. 

Twilight remains quiet, listening to what else the two had to say. “Even though I am married to Celestia now I hope you can still let Harmonia be a part of our lives as much as she is of yours.” Discord said. 

“Discord, after everything that has happened only time will tell what will happen next. Harmonia is now old enough to make her own decisions. I want the bond between you two to remain, but that's up to her.” Twilight said, she looked over to her daughter who was idly talking with her friends. 

“I know you will not forgive us right on the spot, but in no way did we mean for any of this to happen.” Celestia explains. 

“Your trust and friendship will take awhile for you to ever gain back from me, especially you Princess,” Twilight said looking at Celestia. 

“But for now let's leave it at aquanauts.” Twilight said, reasoning with the two. 

They nod and give Twilight a hug. Celestia moves away going back inside to enjoy the party. Leaving Twilight and Discord alone. 

Twilight sighs before turning in to head back to her party. “Twilight wait…” Discord said. 

Twilight stops in the doorway of her room. “Yes?” Twilight asked, her tone soft. 

Discord gives a small smile at Twilight, before leaning into Twilight's ear whispering: “No matter who I choose and even though I have moved on my heart will forever belong to you.”  He said, softly smiling at her. 

“But you broke it.” Mutters Twilight, only loud enough to let Discord hear. 

Discord looks back down, unable to know what to say next. 

“Mother?” Stormy asked. 

“Stormy, what’s going on?” Twilight asked. 

“Everyone is wondering where you went.” Stormy said. 

“Tell them that I’ll be there in a few, okay?” Twilight said. 

Stormy nods and walks off, this isn’t the life she wished to have or hoped to have, but she hid her feelings well from her mother. 

“So, that’s your other daughter, Stormy by him.” Discord said, not daring to bring up Sombra’s name in this conversation. 

Twilight sighs. “..... yes.” She mutters. 

“.... Twilight, everything that’s happened between us and with our daughter…” Discord stated. 

But Twilight couldn’t help but think of one pony in the process… Sombra, memories of what she really did started to slowly fill her head. 

She muted out Discord’s apology for a minute. “.... none of that matters now, really. It’s done and over with and it’s in the past for a reason.” Her voice was slightly inaudible as tears started to fill her eyes. 

She intakes a sharp breath, holding back her tears. Sombra really made her life sometimes a living nightmare and sometimes he was the best thing that’s ever happened to her and now he is gone. 

“..... Let’s just go back and enjoy the party. I’m sure Harmonia is looking for us.” Twilight said, giving a soft smile. 


***


“So when is the new coronation date?” Confetti asked, slightly excited, ready for another party. 

“As the next crowned Princess I think we should hold off on the crowning for a little while longer.” Harmonia mutters.

"And that, we will talk about that with your mother right now." Luna surprises Harmonia from behind, Harmonia's eyes widened from the statement.

"But where will we do it?" Harmonia asks the alicorn princess.

"As i said, we will discuss it with your mother." Luna says as she guides Harmonia to the room where her mother is, with another alicorn princess.

"Princess Celestia?" Harmonia exclaims, she then looks beside to see her mother smiling back at her.

"Is everything ok?" Harmonia asked, her tone worried.

"Yes dear, we were just discussing your coronation." Twilight wraps her daughter in a hug, Harmonia hugs back.

"The Canterlot castle is, not in good shape, but in due time, once it is finished, we will commence it there." Celestia states as she looks at the friendship map, eyeing the castle that was highlighted red.

"It will take awhile, but we have other matters to explain to you." Luna states, her tone saddened by the thought of it.

"What is it Princess Luna?" Twilight asks, her tone confused.

"We are…" Luna wasn't able to finish her statement, Celestia finishes it with a saddened tone.

"We are retiring." Celestia said, her tone mixed with sadness and relief.

"Retiring? But without you Equestria won't be the same!" Twilight exclaims, her tone frantic as she looked at the two with saddened looks.

"Oh that's where you are wrong! Equestria has you two." Celestia says in a comforting tone, Luna nods as she looks at the two who were in shock.

"Is it us, who's gonna take your places!?" Harmonia said in shock, sweating a little.

"You heard her." Luna laughed.

"It's a big honor Princess Celestia, but after what I've done…" Twilight trails off, Harmonia hugs Twilight, nuzzling her.

"Thank you baby." Twilight smiled at her daughter.

"What's in the past is in the past." Luna said, going beside Twilight, giving her a reassuring wing.

"And we know you'll do great, after all, you're my student with the skills of a Princess." Celestia smiles at Twilight, she smiles back.

"Mom, should we?" Harmonia said, looking up at her mother.

"First we need to fix your coronation." Twilight laughs as her daughter sighed.

"I will order the guards to gather some of the finest builders of Ponyville, the castle renovations and the entire rebuild will, painful." Luna shrugs as she imagines the cost of the entire pay of the build.

"Well, no time to waste, we get to it." Celestia says as she opens the balcony doors and spreads her wings.

"Where are you going sister?" Luna asks.

"To inform the guards about our plans for builders, the early we begin, the better." Celestia smiles at her sister and flies out of the room.

"I guess i'll be explaining your coronation sequence." Luna goes in front of them then explains how the coronation works from start to the end.
> Chapter 30: Such A Big Day
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Seven months later…

Harmonia looks at her appearance in the mirror, she’s been through a lot in the past couple of years. All leading up to this specific moment. 

She takes in a deep breath, as Flurry brushes her mane. “You look beautiful, Harmonia.” Flurry said, giving her a small smile. 

“You really think I’m ready to help mom rule Equestria?” Harmonia asked, looking at her reflection back in the mirror. 

“I mean she almost ruled over us, I don't think she needs help.” Flurry mutters. 

Harmonia turns to look at her cousin. “What?” She said. 

“Nothing… The point is I help my mom rule over The Crystal Empire as The Princess of Light. And like you I’m more like my mom’s equal in ruling not her successor.” Flurry explains. 

“Wait… I thought you were a part of The Crystal Guard?” Harmonia asked, confused. 

Flurry giggles. “That was temporary. Also because my dad just dumped the responsibility on me at the last second.” She mutters the last bit to herself. 

Harmonia lightly giggles. 

There was a knock on the door, to reveal Twilight all dressed up in coronation attire. 

“Are you ready Harmonia?” Twilight asked her voice soft and gentle. 

“Of course…” Harmonia said, softly smiling at her. 


***


“Citizens of Equestria and beyond! My sister and I have ruled this land for quite some time, but even we know that change eventually comes to us all. And though we know it can be unsettling, it's as natural as the rising and setting of the sun and the moon. Both of which my sister and I feel confident leaving in the hooves of the pony’s daughter who will come after us and herself.” Celestia announced. 

 “And so without further ado, I give you the next Princess of Equestria - Princess Harmonia Sparkle!” Celestia announces. 

The double doors open to reveal Harmonia in all of her former glory. 

Harmonia smiles at both Celestia and Luna, her mother off in the corner with tears in her eyes. Kunzite held Harmonia’s crown, which Luna uses her magical aura to replace Harmonia's old crown with her new one.   

The transition from Princess to well Princess of Friendship and Chaos was fairly quick and easy. 

Heck, for a moment there she thought she would have to give a speech. 

The ponies cheered. Harmonia breathes a sigh as she gladly accepts her crown and waves, but before she has a chance to walk away Celestia lightly nudges Harmonia’s side. “Say something Princess.” Celestia lightly whispers to her. 
 
Well so much for no speech.

Harmonia slightly tenses up at the thought of giving a speech why couldn’t this have been a grab and go moment?! 

“Any time now, say something!” Celestia said, speaking through a smile. 

“.....” 

“Harmony, sweetie…. what are you doing?” Twilight thought. 

“.... a speech! Right I- I prepared one.” Harmonia said slightly baffled. 

She forces a smile at the crowd before her, as she pulls out her mini flash cards/cue cards. 

“Citizens of Equestria, I want to-“ 

Only to clumsily drop them off the balcony. 

She looks back up at the crowd, who starts to murmur. 

“..... okay well umm I did have a speech prepared as you can see the wind took it, apparently it wanted to hear it as much as you guys did.” Harmonia announced. 

The crowd lightly giggles. 

“Look I’ve just become a crowned Princess for you guys not even five minutes ago and I’m already screwing up. I’m new to this and as you can see giving speeches are not my strong suit.” She admits. 

“Yeah! We’ve noticed!” Someone in the crowd shouts. 

Confetti glares daggers at them. 

“But what do you say to everyone on such a big day?” Harmonia mumbles to herself. 

Harmonia clears her throat, closes her eyes and clears her mind, she then opens her eyes to face the crowd.

"Everypony, I thank you all for being here, at this time of ceremony in which my family and I waited for!" 

Harmonia looks at her mom who smiled at her, gesturing that she should continue.

"We may be of different species, I myself know that, but that doesn't mean that we should look down on them like they are outcasts to the eyes of many." 

Harmonia looks at her friends who were at the front row, Cotton Berry and Confetti Pop tears up.

"I've been through a lot to be here with you all, the hardships, the trials we face as an individual who strives to be better, something we yearn for."

Twilight smiles at her daughter, feeling the message that came from Harmonia's heart.

"But I wasn't alone, my friends made me see the importance of what friendship can do to an individual."

HoneyCrisp and Prism couldn't hold back any tears, letting them fall.

"Friendship is what drives us to do something that nopony has ever done! Save the world, saved a civilization from being ruled, drive out the evil that plagues it!" 

 Harmonia says proudly, everypony in the crowd smiles, some tears up feeling the message.

"I may never be as good as Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, or even my mother, Princess Twilight, but I promise everypony that I'll do my best, to keep us safe and sound!"

Harmonia looks at Twilight, tears welling up in her eyes.

"For that's a Pinkie promise, and with that saying, the magic of friendship will always be and everywhere, give us the strength to push on, our hearts shining through darkness!"

The royal guards pound their spears to the ground, giving out their battle cries.

"Generosity, Kindness, Loyalty, Honesty, Laughter, Friendship. The six that we should never forget that makes us who we are."

She looks at everyone with a smile, then finishes off with a magic spell.

"I, Princess Harmonia Sparkle, am proud to be your ruler! Long live Equestria!" 

Harmonia shouts out a colorful blast of magic to the sky, it explodes into a colorful magenta firework.

"Cheers for Princess Harmonia Sparkle!" Luna yells out, everypony in the crowd cheers, throwing roses in the air, Harmonia's friends went up the stage to give Harmonia a group hug.

"We're proud of you!" HoneyCrisp nuzzles Harmonia, she giggles.

The Princesses, Tempest and the other Unicorns fired colorful magic orbs at the sky, they exploded into fireworks, colorful sparkles filling the air.

Everypony cheered. 


***


“Now that’s how you pull off an epic coronation!” Cotton Berry said, pumping his hoof in the air. 

“I can't believe this day has finally come. After everything that has happened, I thought that my crowning would have to wait for another year or so.” Harmonia said, she couldn't help but keep touching her crown. 

“After everything you have been through you definitely deserve it.” Illusion said, giving her a small smile. 

“You look very beautiful, Harmonia.” Prism said. 

“Indeed!” Mystic said, smiling at her. She actually looked happy for once.

“Wait- When did you two get together?” Cotton Berry wonders. 

“Oh it's a wonderful story.” Beams Mystic. 

“Did it involve a musical number?” Smirks Confetti Pop. 

“I believe it did.” Smiles Mystic, who was still swooning over Prism.

“Well they are both made for each other. You two are both have major ego problems.” Snarks Illusion, but gives them a playful smile. 

Mystic rolled her eyes at her brother, but looked at Prism. “Oh, I love this song. Come dance with me Prizmmy.” Mystic said. 

“Fine. Only for you.” Prism said, leading the two towards the dance floor. 

Harmonia continues to greet her guests and give thanks to the ones congratulating her. 

“Congratulations princess.” Said one of her guests. 

“Thank you.” Harmonia said, smiling at her. 

“Do you mind if I have this dance, Princess Fuzzball?” Asks a familiar voice. 

Harmonia turns around to come face to face with Discord. 

Harmonia slightly teared up. “O-of course.” Mumbles Harmonia.

Discord held out his paw and guided his daughter to the center of the ballroom. “I am so proud of the young lady- er draconequus- you have turned into. I know you will make a great princess with your mother's help.” Discord said. 

That statement made Harmonia tear up even more. She embraced her dad in a hug. “Oh Dad.” Harmonia said, a soft smile played onto her lips. 

Illusion watches from afar, quietly observing and smiling at the scene before him. He patiently waited for Harmonia to finish. He breathes a sigh of relief, once he realizes she was free. “Hey, Harmonia. Would you care to dance?” Illusion asks, holding out his hoof. 

Harmonia blushes. “I actually just got done not too long ago dancing with dad, but I would love to.” she mutters. 

Illusion smirks at her then whisks her away onto the dance floor. 

The two danced elegantly, lightly gliding across the smooth shiny floor. “You dance beautifully, your highness.” Illusion said, his tone light, airy and somewhat romantic. 

Harmonia blushes. “Please just call me Harmonia. I'm not all into titles yet, I don't want anypony to address me with that form of title especially my friends unless it's of importance only.” Harmonia explains. 

“Got it!” Illusion said. 

“So Princ- I mean Harmonia- do you have any new laws to bend upon Equestria since you are crowned?” Illusion asks, his tone playful. 

“Who are you the news reporter?” Harmonia asks, her tone bashfully. 

Illusion smirks at her. “I'm just trying to figure out who you are.” 

“You already know who I am. I'm just a simple mare who wants to make everyone happy, but now I've got to find my own happiness. Which I think I have.” Harmonia said, softly smiling. 

Illusion smiles back. The song then shifts to a different soundtrack. “Mind if I cut in darling?” Ophelia purrs. 

Illusion looked at Ophelia and gave a nod. “Of course.If you need me Harmonia I will be right over there.” Illusion said, before vanishing into the crowd of the party goes. 

Harmonia nods. “So what were you and the pretty boy talking about?” Ophelia said. 

“Just stuff.” Mutters Harmonia. 

“Oh, really?” Ophelia teases as she smirks at the newly crowned princess. 

They glide the shiny ballroom floor with elegance and grace. 

After the song was finished, Ophelia gave a gentle smile to Harmonia. “Thank you for the dance.” Mutters Harmonia. 

“No problem darling.” Ophelia said. 

“But…. I think I need more time. I mean after everything that has happened-” Harmonia said, trying her best to explain, but Harmonia was cut off by Ophelia's kind, but flirtatious gaze. 

“It's okay, darling. I understand.” The young feline whispers softly. 

Ophelia then leaves Harmonia to tend to her own thoughts before her mother, her mother's personal guard and Aunt Starlight come over to her. 

“Sweetheart, I am so proud of you. I love you very much.” Twilight said. 

“I love you too.” Harmonia said, but she couldn't help but keep her mind off of other things. 


***


Stormy stands beside her mother, who claps her hooves together for her "sister", but does not smile for her, only distaste and hate filled her mind.

"If only dad was here, I would've been a  princess instead of her..." Stormy muttered to herself as she trots out of the area where her mother was, she then looks at the crowd, cheering for Harmonia.

"Everypony does love you, you good for nothing fuzzball..." Stormy says in jealousy as she eye'd the crowd still cheering.

Stormy felt a sharp pain in her head, her eyes turning green, with purple mist coming out slowly, she grits her teeth and squeezed her eyes shut, fighting the pain.

"My head!" Stormy calls out, Twilight hears her daughter and rushes to Stormy.

"What's wrong Stormy?" Twilight looked at Stormy's eyes, it was what Sombra had, but she doesn't know where the source is coming from.

"Princess Celestia, I need help!" Twilight calls out, Celestia makes her way to Twilight, looking at Stormy's eyes, her eyes widened from the sight.

"It's a code red, I'll alert the guards!" Celestia rushed to the guards lined up on the side of the stage.

From the crowd, a pony with a black cloak and a hood covering his face was staring at Stormy, his grin wide, Stormy looked at the pony, pain still took control of her.

"Who are you..." Stormy asked herself, the pony who stared back communicated to her back in mind.

"The time is near..." The pony said as he ran out of the crowd, soon enough Stormy was now on the ground, exhausted from all the pain she felt, Luna, Celestia and Twilight helped Stormy get up slowly and rushed her inside the castle.

"It's ok baby, mommy's here!" Twilight said as she opened the castle doors, letting Stormy inside for treatment.


***


Twilight sat there in silence, the door swinging open to reveal the Princesses. "She is going to be okay." Celestia said, smiling at her.

Twilight lets out a sigh of relief, Celestia guides her inside the room, only to see Stormy laying down on the couch, she sits down beside her daughter, stroking her mane.

"What happened? I felt dark magic radiate inside her mind." Twilight asks, her tone filled with worry, Celestia could not find the answer, nor can Luna.

"Somepony in the crowd must have triggered a compulsion, and it gave a big toll on Stormy's telepathy." Luna figures, a guard approaches them, with a sad look on his face.

"Princess, we couldn't find the suspect, no traces either." The guard informs as he sheathes his broadsword, Luna sighs.

"Alright, thank you for your assistance, sister let Twilight be with her daughter, we have other important matters to attend to." Luna orders, as she leaves the room with the guards, Celestia smiles at Twilight.

"I'll be seeing you around, Princess." Celestia leaves the room, Twilight gives out a smile, but fades quickly into a saddened look.

Harmonia enters the room, seeing Twilight with Stormy.

"Mom, is everything ok with her?" Harmonia asks, Twilight smiles at Harmonia.

"She's fine dear, some bad pony managed to get through her." Twilight says as she strokes Stormy's mane, Harmonia then approaches the two.

"Stay here and guard your sister, I'll be outside with aunt Rarity." Twilight says as she stands up, and leaves the room.

"Bye mom!" Harmonia calls out, Twilight gives her a smile before leaving the room, meeting up with Rarity.
 
Harmonia sits down beside Stormy, who was still out cold from the pain.

“I can’t believe this is how the rest of my coronation has to go.” Harmonia mutters to herself. 

“However, what did happen?” Harmonia wonders, looking down at her sister, who stirred in her sleep. 

She heard a soft groan from Stormy who was coming to.

“Hey are you okay?” Harmonia asked, her tone soft. 

“Yeah, I’m-” But Stormy stops talking when she realizes who she was talking to. 

“Oh, it’s you. What do you want?” Stormy asked, her tone cold and bitter. 

“I just came to check on you. I heard what happened from the Princesses so sorry if I care.” Harmonia said, her tone slightly defensive. 

“Care? I don’t need anypony to care for me. I can take care of myself.” Stormy said. 

“Well judging from where you’re at now, it doesn’t seem like it.” Harmonia said. 

“No one asked you to be here for me.” Stormy said, her tone stern. 

Harmonia gritted her teeth, Stormy took notice and backed away a little, tears left Harmonia's eyes as she glared at Stormy.

"What's wrong with you!" Harmonia screams at Stormy who's eyes widened at the sight.

"All I wanted for us to be siblings! Mom wanted us to do the same! And here you are being a jerk because you can't accept the fact that we're now on the same boat!" Harmonia stands up, she glares at Stormy, Stormy's ears flopped down as she stares at the ground, her eyes narrowed.

“Oh! Really? We’re in the same boat?! More like Mom has always been in the picture with you! Where was I at?!” Stormy shouts. 

"I'm sorry for what happened to you! I'm sorry if I can't give you the comfort you need! But I'm your sister!" Harmonia stomps her hooves on the ground, Stormy got startled from the impact of the hooves.

"And it's your job to tell me how you feel so I can help you!" Harmonia speaks in a serious tone, she wipes her tears, finishing what needs to be said.

Stormy and Harmonia went quiet for a few moments, Harmonia sat at the opposite chair, while Stormy stared at the ground, gripping the blanket.

Stormy looks at Harmonia, who was rubbing her forehead as if she was massaging it, Stormy got up and sat beside Harmonia. 

“How do I know you’re not going to hurt me.” Stormy asked, her tone still nonchalant and defensive. 

"Hurt you? That was in the past Stormy, you did something wrong and it was your mistake in the first place! But I forgive you." Harmonia states, snapping her fingers, making a cup of chocolate appear on the table in front of them.

"How did you-" Stormy asks but is stopped by Harmonia.

"Chaos magic." Harmonia said, as she took a sip on her cup, she snapped her finger, making another cup appear in front of Stormy.

"That's so cool!" Stormy was astonished by the spell, Harmonia smiled a little at that as she drank her chocolate.

"You have to teach me!" Stormy demanded, Harmonia laughed and looked at Stormy.

"You gotta earn my trust first." Harmonia teases.

"Oh, it's not gonna be that hard." Stormy replies back, her eyes narrowed at her.

"See, you're doing it again, you gotta act chill." Harmonia drinks her cup of chocolate, then sets the empty cup aside.

"Chill?" Stormy asks as if she was alienated with the word, Harmonia nods.

"Yes, chill, as in- relax and don't be a grumpy pony like you are now?" Harmonia says sarcastically at Stormy, Stormy rolls her eyes and drinks the cup of chocolate with her magic.

"When did you start doing this?" Stormy asks.

"When I was still a filly." Harmonia replies to Stormy, this time her tone soft.

"When was the last time you had chocolate?" Harmonia asks.

"What does chocolate have to do with our situation?" Stormy questions, looking at her sister.

"Chocolate helps ease the mind, and believe me it works." Harmonia takes a sip on her cup, savoring the sweet goodness.

Stormy looks down at her cup. She sighs. "What happened to my life?" Stormy voice was slightly inaudible however Harmonia still overheard.  

"What do you mean?" Harmonia asked.

"It was actually normal, before you came along." Stormy said, still staring at her warm liquid. 

Harmonia sucks in a breath she didn’t know she was holding. “So taking over the Crystal Empire, Canterlot basically all of Equestria was your everyday normal for you?” Harmonia questions. 

“Yes! Blowing up buildings, fights, studying the Dark Arts…. All of that was considered normal for me!” Stormy shouts. 

“How do you expect to move on to a new sense of normality when your whole life you were raised to know only the Dark Arts?” Stormy asked. 

“Maybe you need a new sense of normality then.” Harmonia suggested. 

“W-where do I even begin?” Stormy asked. 

Harmonia giggles. “..... I think I have a few ideas, besides we’re sisters.” she smiles down at her sister, embracing her in a hug. 

“Half sisters.” Stormy corrects. 

Harmonia sighs playfully. “....Oh Stormy.” she said, pulling her into a hug. 

Twilight witnessed the entire thing from the ajared door, watching, she smiled to herself. 

“..... That’s my girls.” She mutters to herself. 

As she begins to walk down the hallway, basking in the last rays of Celestia’s sunlight of the last hours of Harmonia‘s Coronation.                              

She couldn’t help but think of all the time she had wasted not being there for Harmonia, her capture with Sombra for the last nine years, tears filled her eyes, but she blinks them back as she noticed two new stained glass windows one was of Harmonia and her friends celebratory defeat against Sombra the other must a have been put in hours ago which was of Harmonia and her being crowned Equestria’s newest Princess. 

“It’s a wonderful feeling isn’t it? Knowing that your daughter has overcome everything in her life just to get to this moment.” Celestia asked softly. 

“Yes and I couldn’t be prouder of her.” Twilight mumbles. 

Celestia lays a comforting wing on Twilight’s back, they stay in silence for a moment just staring at the two stained glass windows before Celestia turns to leave, leaving Twilight alone with her thoughts. 

Maybe she had to go discuss important means with Luna, about Stormy’s connection with whatever dark magic she was feeling. However, she remembered the bond Harmonia and Stormy shared back in that room. 

“Yes, everything is going to be just fine.” Twilight mutters to herself before walking away. 
> Epilogue: Electrified
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Mom! I can’t believe you’re the ruler of all of Equestria now.” Harmonia squeals. 

Not only was she crowned Princess of Equestria, but now her mother was Ruler of Equestria. 

“I mean what’s better than being crowned Princess of Equestria?! Getting to live here duh ...” Harmonia squeals looking out one of the glass stained windows. Twilight lightly giggles at her daughter’s chaotic antics. 

Harmonia looked down below at her and her mother’s subjects. 

Since the battle with Sombra happened all those moons ago everything was now at peace in Equestria. Also, Celestia and Luna stepped down as Rulers of Equestria so Twilight could take their place. 

It’s been 8 years since harmony has been restored here. For the last 9 years it has been in utter disarray because of her and Sombra. However, it wasn’t her fault Celestia and the others keep reminding her of that, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was a part of it. No matter if she was corrupted or not. 

Twilight sighs, her ears downfolded. “Mother? Are you alright?” Came another voice. 

Stormy. 

“Y-Yeah I’m fine Stormy.” Twilight said, giving her daughter a light smile. 

“You know-” Stormy begins, but Twilight cuts her off. 

“I said I’m fine! I mean I have you two here and I’m the Ruler of all of Equestria. What more do I need?” Twilight questions. 

“But mother.. you rule alone now.” Stormy interjects. 

“Yeah besides, doesn’t every ruler need a king or queen by their side?” Harmonia wonders. 

“Not always I mean Celestia and Luna ruled Equestria for thousands of years and they were both sisters. Besides, we have your Uncle Spike to help out when he can. If he’s not in the dragon lands with your cousin then he’s helping assort the feud between the Abyssinians and Diamond Dogs. Their history is rather complex.” Twilight explains. 

“Wait if he’s her uncle does that make him my uncle too since we are half sisters and everything?” Stormy questions. 

“We’re sisters not half.” Harmonia explains. 

“Eh I like half sisters better.” Stormy chides. 

Twilight rolls her eyes at their light bantering. “Yes Stormy he is.” She said. 

Twilight gets up from her throne. “I have a meeting with the dignities of Maretonia later on tonight and I need you two to be on your best behavior tonight. That means no chaos and no use of dark magic. Got it?” Twilight said, her voice stern. 

“Fine.” They muttered. 


***


Stormy sat on the balcony of her mother’s new home in Canterlot. Tears aligned in her eyes, she can’t believe she lost her dad due to Harmonia and her friends evaporatoring him back to death. 

“Ooohhh….” Stormy groans as she lays her head down in sorrow. 

“What’s the matter my dear?” Said an unfamiliar voice. 

Stormy jerks her head up, and surveys her surroundings, but as far as she knows she was alone. 

Then the mysterious visitor appears. 

“Who are- Wait…. I didn’t summon a ghost or spirit or…. What are you?” Stormy questions. 

The mystery visitor just gave a smirk at her. 

“You know…” they said. 

"No! Whatever plan you have I think I have one way better..." Stormy said, smirking. 


***


Twilight sat in her throne room waiting on the dignitaries to arrive. They had traveled all the way from Saddle Arabia to make a confidential meeting with the new ruler of Equestria.

The throne room door opens to reveal one of Twilight's royal guards, Gallus. 

"They're here your majesty." Gallus said, bowing at the presence of his new ruler. 

"Send em in, Gallus." Twilight said, as he uses his other claw to open to the left side of the door. 

As the dignitaries entered the spacious room, Gallus took it as his cue to leave and closed the heavy wooden doors. 

“Thank you for keeping this meeting confidential you’re majesty.” Said the head of Emperor of Saddle Arabia. 

“Of course.” Twilight said. 

“Now if you head this way to this way I have a room set aside for you. I’m glad to hear that you’re staying here will be comfortab-“ Twilight said. 

“Woof! Woof!” Twilight barks. 

“My word!” The Emperor said. 

“You’re majesty are you alright?” The Emperor’s wife asked. 

Twilight eyes widened in shock. “I am so sorry I don’t know where that came from?” Twilight said, slightly embarrassed. 

“That’s uh? Alright you’re majesty.” The Emperor’s wife said, slightly baffled. 

“As I was saying… to make your stay more… neigh.” Twilight said, before covering her mouth with her hoof. 

“You’re majesty are you sure you don’t need to lay down?” The Emperor asked.  

“No thanks- I’m perfectly woah!” Twilight said. 

At that moment, It was as if she had no control over her body. 

The dignitaries looked at her slightly alarmed and confused. “And- And this is a new dance that every new ruler greets dignitaries with called the “Canterlot Trot” would you please join me?” Twilight said, trying her best to come up with an excuse. 

The dignitaries looked at each other, before looking at Twilight and decided to join in- unwillingly. 

Twilight’s magic was then being controlled as well as kitchen utensils were being flown out of the kitchen and into the hallway almost nailing the dignitaries. 

She then brought snow in from Celestia knows where and piles it all over the dignitaries.  Her eyes widened. “I am so sorry! I have no idea what’s going on.” Twilight said her tone was apologetic. 

“At least I made a name for myself.” Stormy thought as she watched the disaster unfold before her. 

“Hey mom!” Harmonia said, her eyes widened at the disaster before her. 

“Uh mom? What’s going on? Oh, I didn’t realize we had guests.” Harmonia said, looking at the dignitaries who were drenched in snow. 

“Harmonia, is this your doing?” Twilight asked. 

“I love the chaos as much as dad did, but I promise this isn’t my doing.” Harmonia said. 

Harmonia then begins to sneeze uncontrollably, causing chaos to let loose through the castle. 

“Harmony, stop this.” Twilight commanded. 

“I- achoo! Can’t. It’s like I don’t have control over my magic.” Harmonia said she snapped her paw, but instead of stopping it it only caused more chaos which causes invisible winds to appear. 

“Maybe you can write a letter to Celestia. Does she know anything about ... whatever’s going on?” Harmonia asked. 

“Celestia and Luna retired remember? They live in Silver Shoals now.” Twilight said. 

“Wait… where is Stormy?” Harmonia asked. 

“Hey guys!” Stormy said, her tone nonchalant. 

 “Stormy! Stop this now! Your ruining mom’s meeting.” Harmonia said.

“Now why would you assume that it’s me?” Stormy asked, her tone innocent. 

“Maybe because you're the only one that isn’t in the room that’s being controlled by whatever’s happening young one.” The Empress said.  

“You know I would, but I’m having too much fun!” Stormy said, giggling. 

“Stormy Rose Sparkle! Release whatever spell this is this instant!” Twilight said, using her Canterlot voice. 

Stormy flinched slightly, but stood her ground. “Like I said I’m having too much fun.” Stormy taunts. 

Twilight stares at her daughter in anger, her anger slowly bubbling over. 

“Huh? You’re majesty. You’re horn.” Said the Emperor. 

Twilight looks upward at her horn to notice a dark crimson cloud hovering above them. 

“Calm down Twilight.” She thought to herself. 

“Stormy you’re causing pure chaos at the moment. And that’s your sister’s specialty.” Twilight said. 

“Half sister.” Stormy corrected. 

“Why are you acting out like this?!” Twilight questions. 

“You… you wouldn’t understand.” Stormy said. 

“Put us and the dignitaries down and we can talk about whatever is bothering you.” Twilight explains. 

“Talk?! I don’t think talking is going to fix what happened in the past! I don’t think talking is going to bring father back!” Stormy yelled. 

And with that she took off and the spell wore off of everyone. 

“Stormy Wait!” Twilight calls out, racing after her daughter. 

Leaving Harmonia alone with the dignitaries. “Yeah, Sorry about my sister she’s just going through some things. Um… how about I show you to your room?” Harmonia ask leading the way. 


***


Twilight knocks on the Stormy’s door. “Can I come in?” Twilight asked. 

“Go away!” Stormy said. 

“Sweetie I know it’s hard without your father around, believe me I miss him too.” Twilight said. 

“You don’t act like it.” Stormy said, her tone bitter. 

“That’s because I try not to think about it.” Twilight said, her ears down folder. 

Stormy then opens the door. “How are you able to hide your emotions so well, when it comes to missing somepony?” Stormy asked. 

“I’ve had years of watching everypony before me pass. My mother and father. And soon my brother and friends will eventually.” Twilight said. 

“Why does immortality have to suck?” Stormy asked. 

“That’s the price to pay with immortality. Just ask Celestia and Luna, they'll tell you all about it.” Twilight said, giving her daughter a half smile. 

“Yes Alicorns like you and I live forever and draconquess.” Twilight said her tone soothing. 

“You mean Harmonia will still exist after I’m like 30000 years old.” Stormy said, her tone sour. 

“Stormy!” Twilight scolds. 

“Sorry! It’s just… Why did father have to die?! Why did Harmonia and her friends have to evaporate him?” Stormy asked. 

“So they could save me. But that doesn’t change the fact that I missed your father rather if he was in love with me or not. Somewhere deep down I know he had a heart or… somewhat of a heart.” Twilight said, remember the utter hell she went through with Sombra. 

“I just wish I could see him at least one last time.” Stormy mutters. 

“So do I sweetheart… so do I.” Twilight said, rubbing her daughter’s back with her right wing. 

Twilight sighs. “The dignitaries go home tomorrow- tomorrow being Saturday which means family game night. You can join us.” 

“Do I have to?”  Stormy whines. 

“The idea of family is that everypony is together under one roof.” Twilight said. 

“Fine!” Stormy grumbled. 

“Now don’t you think the dignitaries deserve an apology? You did ruin my meeting with them you know?” Twilight said. 

Stormy smirks. “Possessing you and the dignitaries was the most fun I’ve ever had. Besides you should have seen the looks on your faces.” Stormy laughs. 

Twilight arches an eyebrow at her daughter. “Fine. I’ll go apologize to the dignitaries, but can it wait until tomorrow? I’m actually enjoying this time with you.” Stormy said, snuggling close to Twilight. 

“Fine, but I expect an apology first thing in the morning.” Twilight said. 

“I’m sorry for wrecking your meeting mother.” Stormy said her tone was apologetic. 

“I forgive you, but you owe more than just me an apology and you know that missy.” Twilight said her voice stern. 

“Yeah yeah.” Stormy said. 


***


The next morning the dignitaries and Twilight meet all in the throne room. 

“As much of a disaster as that meeting was last night I have to say it was rather interesting your majesty.” The Emperor said. 

“Indeed, That little one you have is extremely talented.” The Empress said. 

“But the meeting was a disaster!” Twilight said, her tone in shock. 

“Trust me dear, we have seen worse.” The Empress said. 

 “We consider not letting the trade fall through last night by letting exchange unicorns students from other parts of Equestria come to the School of Gifted Unicorns, but after some conversing with your oldest daughter’s it’s clear to see that you have a good head on your shoulders and you raised wonderful children.” The Emperor said. 

“Children? You mean as in more than one correct?” Twilight asked dumbfound. 

The Empress giggled. “Yes, your youngest daughter even came in to apologize even though it was 4 am and still dark out.” The Empress explains. 

“Her apology could have waited until later on today, but it seems like she just couldn’t wait.” The Emperor said. 

“Anyways, it was nice meeting you and your children your majesty. If it’s okay with you we will be taking our leave, but just know that the exchange has been passed and we will be staying in contact with each other from here on out.” The Empress said. 

“Yes, th- Thank you.” Twilight said, slightly speechless. 

She then walks the dignitaries to the door, walking them out. 

As they disappeared around the corner Twilight smiled to herself. “Good job girls. Good job.” She said quietly to herself. 


***


“You know today is Saturday right? That means family game night! Are we waiting on anyone else mom?” Harmonia asked. 

Harmonia enjoyed family game night especially if it involves her aunts and Uncle Spike. 

“Do I have to join?” Stormy scrunched her muzzle. 

The idea of family rattled to her core especially after what happened with her past. 

“Yes. That’s the idea of family is that all of us are together under one roof.” Twilight explains. 

“Fine.” Stormy groans. 

The door to the castle creaks open. “Sorry I’m late, I didn't think Kunzite would want to join in on the fun we had planned tonight.” Spike said.

“Look I am all in for fun and games, but I got to make sure it isn’t dangerous of course. I’ve had enough of that to last a lifetime.” Kunzite said. 

“Yeah after taking about an hour or so to decide on a simple decision.” Spike said. 

Twilight lightly giggles as she gives her nephew a hug. “Well I’m glad to have you both here.” Twilight said. 

“Are we waiting on anyone else or is this all of us.” Kunzite asked. 

“We actually have others coming, but they should be here in a few.” Twilight explains. 

“Hey mother? Do you mind if I go and check on something before we start?” Stormy asked. 

“Yeah sure sweetheart.” Twilight said. 


***


Stormy walked down the hallway, she eyes the stained glass windows, each of them holding their own individual stories. 

Stormy saw one that stood out amongst the others, but she only quickly glanced at it before continuing onward. 

She made her way to her room, she eased the door shut before turning her attention back to what she needed. “Come on it has to be here somewhere.” She thought. 

After about 20 minutes of searching she couldn’t find it. “Father, why?” Stormy asked as tears welled in her eyes. 

There was a light knocking on the door. “Stormy? Are you ready? We’re just about to begin?” Harmonia calls from behind her sister’s door. 

Stormy wipes away the tears that were threatening to fall. No way was she going to show her sister that she was a vulnerable namby pamby weak princess. 

“Yea- Yeah, I’m coming, I'll be down in a few.” Stormy calls out. 


*** 


Everypony was gathered in the living room of Twilight’s new home. 

“What did I miss?” Stormy questions taking a side beside HoneyCrisp. 

“Oh! You’re just in time Prism is up.” HoneyCrisp explains. 

Prism grabs a piece of paper from Applejack’s hat. 

“Okay this should be easy enough.” Mumbles Prism said. 

He begins to make motions with his hoofs as he stands on his hind legs. 

“Ooo model?” Ophelia questions. 

Prism shook his head no. 

“Bridge?” Stormy guessed. 

“Skiing?” Rainbow Dash guesses. 

“Yep! Okay you're up mom.” Prism said. 

Rainbow Dash went next as she pulled a piece of paper from Applejack’s hat. 

“Okay.” Rainbow Dash said, before throwing the paper to the side. 

Rainbow begins to fly around the room.

“Snow storm?” Confetti Pop guessed. 

Rainbow shook her head no. 

“Daring tricks?” Rarity guessed. 

“Part of the Wonderbolt team?” Twilight guessed. 

“Yep. Geez can’t believe none of you guessed that.” Rainbow said. 

“Well it’s hard to figure it out when you do exactly what you always do.” Applejack states. 

Fluttershy lightly giggles. “Okay Twi. you’re up.” Applejack said. 

Twilight stands up and grabs a piece of paper from Applejack’s hat. 

“Okay.” Twilight said. 

She begins to make movements with hooves. 

“Raising the sun?” Flurry Heart questions. 

Skiing?” Cadence guessed. 

“Raising the moon?” Rainbow Dash questioned. 

Twilight shook her head no. 

“This is harder than you’re making it Twily.” Shining said. 

“Princess Celestia?” Fluttershy questions. 

“Greatest mistake of your life!” Confetti shouts. 

“Unredeemable monster!” Rarity shouts.  

Twilight’s ears pricked up. 

“Ooohhh! Distracted! You definitely look distracted! Worried? Scared? Confused?” Pinkie Pie guessed, but Twilight wasn’t paying attention. 

“Times up! We won!” Rainbow Dash cheers. 

Rarity rolled her eyes at Dash’s remark. 

“Twilight are you okay darling?” Rarity asked. 

“Yeah I’m fine. Look it’s late I think I’m going to turn in for the night.” Twilight said, walking past them. 

Twilight walks past her family and friends making her way to her royal chambers. 


***

There was a light knock on the door, as Cadence entered. “Twilight, something wrong?” Cadence asked. 

“With you?” Twilight wonders. 

Cadence lightly giggles. “No with you. I mean I hope Shining's comment didn’t offend you. Not everyone is great at family game nights.” Cadence said lightly giggling. 

“Twilight, you know you can tell me anything. What’s wrong?” Cadence asked. 

“It’s just… what if I’m not doing a great job as ruler?” Twilight said, looking away from Cadence. 

“What are you talking about? You’re a great ruler. You're the one who brought creatures and non-creatures to live in harmony. Before you ruled there was just Celestia and Luna who only ruled over three pony races at their disposal, but with you as ruler it’s like a whole new Equestria was formed.” Cadence explains. 

“Thanks, Cadence. I think I’m going to go see what the girls are doing.” Twilight said, softly smiling at her sister. 


***


“Mother are you okay?” Stormy asked. 

“Yeah I’m fine. Why are you girls not asleep yet?” Twilight asked. 

“We wanted to make sure you were okay.” Harmonia said, softly smiling. 

Twilight lightly scoffs. “I’m okay, okay? No need to worry about me. Now come on. You two can sleep with me tonight.” Twilight said, the girls followed. 

The trio walks down the hall and down to her bedchambers. 

“But mother, we’re not 8 and 5 anymore.” Stormy said, slightly embarrassed. 

“You will always be mommy’s little girls now come on.” Twilight said. 

She opened the door to her bedchamber, which had an enormous bed in the middle that could fit all of the Mane 6 plus their children there, a fireplace in the right side of the wall. Bookcases, some of the books were missing from its slot, a podium which had inks and quills scattered across it. 

“Come here, I know what you two need. Now snuggle close.” Twilight said. 

The two climbed up in bed with Twilight being on the left side of the girls, Stormy in the middle and Harmonia beside her. 

“This was a lullaby passed down from my mother… now let’s see if I can remember it…” Twilight said. 

As she begins to hum the tune of an old childhood favorite of hers, passed down from the generations in her family. However, while the lullaby was all too new to Stormy's ears, Harmonia recognizes it straight away. 

Harmonia yawns. “I see what you're doing.” She softly mumbles as she slowly drifts off to sleep.


*** 


Twilight tosses and turns in her sleep. The thoughts that started to plague her mind started to get her. 

Even though she was asleep tears started to fill her eyes. 

…. No not this again!

Her mind was practically screaming this. 

Visions of either what happened while staying with Sombra flashed in her mind or while she ruled Equestria with an iron hoof did, possibly both. 

Not visions but nightmares. 

The last nightmare she saw herself within a dark abyss or room of some sorts, very little light was shown about like the light of a dimly lit moon. 

Blackish purple mist covered her entire body, she felt it but could only see her hoofs in front of her which were already covered in the same smoky velvet-like feeling material. 

Her cutie mark being the last thing to disappear. 

Come with me….

A haunting voice called, even though she couldn’t hear that voice she could hear her own voice. 

I’m sorry….

Twilight’s eyes quickly snap open, as she gasps for air. Beads of cold sweat were down her face. Her breathing became raggedy as she could hear her heartbeat thud loudly in her chest. Her body was slightly shaking from the nightmare she just witnessed. 

She took in her surroundings, she was still in her royal bedchamber with Stormy and Harmonia sleeping soundly on each side of her. 

She threw her head back on the pillow, but was unable to go back to sleep in fears that the same nightmare would continue if she closed her eyes again. 

She gets up out of bed, making her way to the throne room, both of her little angels still asleep, the nightmare she had really took a toll on her, remembering all she has done for the past years that have passed, the hurt, the uncertainty of everything, her insecurities getting the best of her.

"Is it even worth it?" Twilight questions herself as she glares at the stained glass window of an image of herself and all of her friends together.

"I've done so much, so much harm..." Twilight approached the throne seat, visions of her and Harmonia together on that seat when she was a filly, tickling her playfully crossed her mind, she smiled a little.

"I won't back down, but..." Twilight shook her head, still remembering that nightmare she had. Twilight questions herself, as she gazes at her throne seat, before leaving for the double crystal doors.

Twilight gazed at the window pane once more, tears crept up into her eyes. 

Come with me… 

Twilight’s ears shot at the sound, as she turned away from the window. 

“Harmonia?” Twilight asked, she walked through the hallway. 

“Sweetie, if this is one of your pranks then it’s not-“ Twilight stops as she notices small dark crystals formed in the corner of a cracked pillar. 

“… funny.” Twilight’s eyes widened as her heart began to race. 

Maybe it’s the lack of sleep she was running on, yeah that was it! She heard the double doors open slowly, she looked to see Harmonia yawning.

“Mom? What are you doing?” Harmonia questions. She sees her mother wipe her eyes quickly, Harmonia looks in confusion.

"Is everything okay?" Harmonia went up to her mother who sat down, looking at the window pane.

"Yes dear, everything's fine." Twilight smiles at her daughter, reassuring her.

"Obviously you're not okay, what's wrong mom?" Harmonia sat beside her, Twilight embraced Harmonia with her wing, and pulled her close.

"I’m just doing some deep thinking." Twilight reassured once more, Harmonia looked at her mother with worry.

"Mom, please, tell me." Harmonia pleads, Twilight sighs at that.

“Sweetie, it’s late. I’ll explain it to you in the morning now go back to bed. I'll be there in a few.” Twilight said. 

Harmonia sighs and obeys her mother’s orders. 

Twilight looks back at the dark crystal that was logged into the cracks of the pillar however it is now gone from its slot. 

“What…” Twilight whispers to herself. 

Maybe she was just more tired than she realized, Twilight sighs and begins to turn in for the night. 

"Everything's gonna be okay..." Twilight reassures herself, but deep down inside her, she couldn't let go of the feeling that something, no, somepony, was looming around in the darkest corner of her mind.


***



Twilight went out for a walk, leaving the care of Harmonia and Stormy to Starlight and Tempest, the masses greeted Twilight not going into her path, Twilight greets back with a smile and wave.

"Queen Twilight!" The filly approached Twilight, she held a rose with her mouth and looked at her with glee, Twilight giggles and grabs the rose with her magic.

"Thank you little one." Twilight says as she smiles at the filly, the filly jumped in excitement and ran back to her parents, who smiled and waved at Twilight.

"It's nice to see you Queen Twilight!" The mother greets, Twilight smiles at the mother.

"It's nice to meet you too, i hope you and your family have a nice morning.." Twilight replies, she looks at the filly who was with her father, she couldn't help but stare at the two, the filly chases the butterfly while the father looks after his own.

"Is everything alright, Queen Twilight?" The mother asks, her look slightly confused and worried for her, Twilight snaps out of it, giggling nervously.

"Nothing, nothing at all! I just remembered something." Twilight tries to sugar coat the conversation, the mother smiles in relief.

"Oh! We better get going then, we're sorry for the inconvenience!" The mother apologizes, Twilight gave her a reassuring smile.

"It's no bother at all, please enjoy your morning." Twilight said with a sweet tone, she waved at the couple who walked past her, her smile fades as they left.

"Oh..." Twilight frowns a little as she proceeds along her way, she looks at the rose given to her by the small filly, she reminisces the time with Harmonia and Discord, together in the garden, playing, bonding.

This made Twilight tear up a little, but she fought back the tears, not letting out in public, she continued along the path headed to the Everfree, what is she up to?

She looks at the signs, pointing to the overlooking of the Everfree Grove, the other pointing to Zecora's cottage.

"Here goes nothing..." Twilight heads for Zecora's cottage, she then places the rose inside her saddle bag and looks around her, seeing tall trees and flowers, the animals doing their own business.

"Come with me..." 

Twilight hears the voice once more, she looks to her left, seeing a deer run away, her eyes darted to the right, seeing small crystals growing out of a dead stump.

"No, not again, not now!" Twilight looks behind her, seeing tall dark red crystal barriers covering her path.

"Whoever you are, show yourself!" Twilight calls out, her horn charged with magic, out of the dark shadows came out tendrils, it slowly made its way to Twilight.

"Not again..." Twilight's eyes widened as she remembered her first encounter with Sombra, the tendrils slowly approached her.

"Stay back!" Twilight backs up, hitting a crystal wall behind her, the tendrils stopped in front of her.

"No more, please..." Tears fall as she pleads, the tendrils charged at her, Twilight closes her eyes tightly, she waits for a few minutes, not opening her eyes, trying to feel the atmosphere around her.

"What..?" Twilight opens her eyes a little, seeing no crystal pillars, no tendrils, she opens her eyes fully seeing nature once more.

"This has to stop..." Twilight looks ahead to see Zecora's cottage in sight, she rushes for it, not daring to look behind her.

"Zecora!" Twilight calls out, no answer.

"Zecora! It's me Twilight!" Twilight calls out again, she stops as she reaches the front door.

"Zecora?" Twilight looks to the window, seeing nopony inside the cottage, she goes around, the back of the cottage, only to find Zecora grabbing carrots.

"Hello Zecora." Twilight greets, Zecora puts the carrot in the basket and smiles at Twilight.

"Why hello Queen Twilight, what brings you here in broad daylight?" Zecora questions the alicorn, Twilight chuckles.

"I'm just here for carrots?" Twilight says in a more confused tone, Zecora's eyebrow arched in suspicion.

"I sense a lie, I could tell by your eyes!" Zecora chuckles, startling Twilight.

"Okay! You got me, I need something from you." Twilight smiles awkwardly at her, Zecora giggles and guides her to the back door.

"Oh Twilight Sparkle, always in for a startle." Zecora kids Twilight around, she chuckles at that.

"Yup, that's me..." Twilight trails off as she looks around the cottage, seeing materials for spells hung on the ceiling with a rope, a cauldron heating up a semi foul stench of timber wolf arms.

"Um, Zecora, why the Timberwolf arm?" Twilight looks at the arm hanging out of the cauldron, Zecora covers the top.

"For the expense of speed, for slow ponies come to me with that need." Zecora says in a nonchalant tone, Twilight cringes slightly.

"Where was I, oh yes! Zecora, do you have something that could..." Twilight stops, not trying to sound ridiculous at Zecora.

"Twilight there is no need to worry, or your idea will get blurry." Zecora prepares a flask, putting in the diced mushrooms and leaves from the trees outside.

"Well..." Twilight traces off, looking at what Zecora was doing.

"You see I-" Zecora stops Twilight as she looked to her with a face of concern and worry for the alicorn.

"Twilight, is something bothering you? You're eyes look heavy too." Zecora observes the alicorns eyes, Twilight looks away a little, avoiding Zecora's gaze.

"Long story really, and I'm not in the mood to talk about it..." Twilight looks down at the ground, ashamed of what she feels, Zecora neared Twilight, stroking her back.

"I know what happened my friend, I am here to mend." Zecora smiles at Twilight, she looks at Zecora with a weak smile and wiped her tears.

"Recently I've been seeing things that aren't there, really scary things, voices in my head, ever since Sombra's death I keep hearing and seeing things!" Twilight rants, Zecora nods and listens to her friend closely.

"And then when I was headed here it happened again, but this time it tried to attack me..." Twilight looks outside the window, still observing the trees and the pathway.

"Are you sure it is not stressed? It seems that everywhere you go or mention its always a mess." Zecora interjects, Twilight shakes her head, trying to convince Zecora about her nightmares.

"I feel like this is real Zecora! You may not see them but I can!" Twilight's voice was filled with fear, Zecora takes notice of Twilight's horn, seeing dark magenta aura circling around it.

"Twilight, your horn..." Zecora calls out, Twilight looks up to see her horn glowing dark magenta, she feels a sharp pain in her head once more.

"Come to me..." The voice calls out, Twilight yells, trying to block out the voice in her head, Zecora places her hoof on Twilight's forehead, sensing a spirit shrouding within her head.

"Twilight stay with me! For I can sense what you see!" Zecora then rushes to her cabinets and looks for a bottle, she felt the solid engravings as she looked in the last cabinet, she then rushed with the bottle to Twilight.

"Zecora, make it stop..!" Twilight calls out for help, Zecora rushes back, removing the cork from the bottle and pouring the substance to her hoof.

"Hold still Twilight, I am freeing you from this fight!" Zecora then placed her hoof with the liquid on Twilight's forehead, she chanted a spell in which radiated from her hoof, Twilight stopped struggling as the pain went away.

"Easy Twilight, don't be in so much fright." Zecora reassures as she helps Twilight lay down on the couch, she was tired, her vision blurry.

"Z-Zecora..." Twilight calls out, Zecora places a blanket on her as she passes out on the couch, her mind shuts down as the exhaustion kicks in.

Two hours passed as Twilight woke up, her vision was still adjusting to the dim lighting of the cottage, she looked around not seeing Zecora around.

"Zecora? Are you here?" Twilight calls out, she was startled as the back door opened revealing Zecora with a white crystal in her mouth, she places the crystal on the counter top, alongside a piece of rope.

"You're awake, thank goodness sake." Zecora smiles as she closes the back door, Twilight smiles back.

"How are you feeling? You must be refreshed after your loud sleeping..." Zecora giggles, Twilight laughs nervously, embarrassed.

"I haven't gotten a good rest lately, I'm always tired..." Twilight says as she removes the blanket, she looks at the crystal on the table as Zecora was putting beads on the rope.

"What's that?" Twilight questions the zebra, Zecora chuckles.

"It is a key item which will help you in your journey, with this you will be able to uncover a new discovery." Zecora grabs the crystal, and grabs the sickle with her mouth, she carefully aims at the top center of the crystal and marks it.

"I don't get it..." Twilight looks at Zecora, confused.

"You will soon know what it does, now please hand me the small patch of grass." Zecora requests, Twilight levitates the grass to Zecora as she grinds the liquid out of it, and rubs it on the beads.

"Now, tell me what this is for?" Twilight questions once more, Zecora turns around to put the necklace onto Twilight's neck, the white crystal hangs on the middle of the rope.

"It is an emulating crystal, in which it captures a signal." Zecora says as she removes it from Twilight's neck, wiping the beads with the liquid from the grass.

"An emulating crystal..." Twilight makes sense of it, as Zecora shows her the necklace, Twilight tries to grab it with her hoof but Zecora spanks it away with her's.

"You must handle this with care! For it's breaking I could not bear!" Zecora warns Twilight, she chuckles nervously as she puts the necklace on her neck.

"Why are you giving me this?" Twilight looks at Zecora, confused.

"The voices in your head, it comes from the dead, it is but a calling, from which I feel you are longing." Zecora says as she cleans the mess on her table and wipes it with a cloth with her hoof.

"Calling?" Twilight repeats the word in confusion.

"The voice that calls you, but I fear it might be a coup..." Zecora says with worry in her tone, Twilight looks outside, trying to make sense of it all, from the words "Come to me." to the calling, she tries to piece it together.

"Could i-it be, Sombra, who's calling me?" Twilight questions herself as she holds on to the crystal, fear gripping her mind, but her heart speaks out in worry.

"But he's dead.." Twilight looks at Zecora.

"The necklace will detect a strong signal within your path, but don't overdue its wrath, if it breaks i can't be there to help, so please stay out of trouble if danger is to be felt." Zecora states, Twilight nods, but she still tries to make sense of this.

"So i need to find Sombra using this? How will I know if I'm close?" Twilight questions the zebra.

 "The crystal will shine bright, so keep it within your sight." Zecora replies as she looks at Twilight seriously, Twilight nods.

Twilight looks at Zecora. “..... If I go and do what you suggest then that means I have to face my past. And if I can’t do that then what kind of ruler of Equestria does that make me? I mean-” Twilight mutters. 

Wack! 

“Owww! Jeez! What was that for?!” Twilight asked, rubbing her head. 

“Who cares! It's in the past!” Zecora said. 

“You just whacked me with your staff thingy just a second ago! And it still hurts.” Twilight said, glaring at her. 

“No, my dear Twilight you misunderstand.” Zecora said, lightly laughing. 

“Oh yes, the past can hurt, but the way I see it you can either run from it or learn from it.” Zecora said, stirring her bubbling coulderent. 

She then swings her staff again, but this time Twilight ducks. 

“See! You get it now! So what are you going to do?” Zecora questions. 

“First, I’m taking that staff.” Twilight said, she uses her magical aura to toss Zecora staff out the door. 

“No, no, no! Not my staff.” Zecora said she went to go get her staff, when she returned she noticed that Twilight was halfway out of the door of Zecora hut and Everfree galloping back to Ponyville. 

“Hey! Where are you going?!” Zecora called out. 

“I know what I need to do now!” She said. 

“Sombra, if you're out there, I'm coming..." Twilight says to herself as she goes to the front door.

"Zecora?" Twilight calls out, she looks behind to see nopony in sight, she goes back to the back door and opens it to see Zecora planting carrot seeds in her garden.

"Thank you." Twilight says, Zecora looks back and smiles.

"You're welcome, now go before I give you a ransom." Zecora says sarcastically, Twilight giggles and leaves galloping back to Ponyville.


***


5 weeks later...


The next morning, Twilight raises the sun and she watches as all of Equestria is beginning to awake. 

“Come With Me…” 

“Would you go away!” Twilight quietly hissed. 

“Mother is everything okay? Who are you talking to?” Stormy asked. 

“Harmonia told me that you’ve been out of it since last night.” Stormy said. 

“I-” Twilight said, but the haunting voice came back. 

Stormy ears pricked up. “Wait you hear that too huh?” Twilight asked. 

Stormy slowly nodded her head. “You don’t think it could be?” Stormy asked. 

“I don’t think so.” Twilight shook her head, ignoring the haunting and alluring voice. 

“Anyways where’s your sister?” Twilight asked. 

“Still asleep, but mom if it is then let me come with you.” Stormy pleads. 

“Stormy no. I need you to stay here with your sister. I’ll go.” Twilight said, her tone stern. 

“Uh, excuse me I’ve taken over the Empire without your help, enslaved ponies and survived Harmonia for the last decade. So yeah I’m coming with you.” Stormy said. 

“No you’re not. You’re staying here and that is final!” Twilight said, her tone stern. 

“If father was here he would definitely be on my side.” Stormy said, her tone bitter. 

Twilight looked at her daughter slightly hurt by her comment. “I’ll go and I’m doing this alone. I can’t risk putting you or anypony else in danger. You have to understand.” Twilight said. 

“.... Fine.” Stormy pouts. 

“I expect this castle to be exactly the way I left it. I shouldn’t be gone long. I pinpointed exactly where the voice is coming from last night only to find out it’s coming from the North.” Twilight explains. 

“You mean North as in the Ethers?” Stormy questions. 

“Exactly.” Twilight said. 

She kisses the top of Stormy’s head. “I’ll be back very soon.” Twilight said she uses her horn to teleport to the Frozen North. 


***


This location happens to be outside of the Crystal Empire and it was definitely freezing here. Twilight breathed out her breath becoming icy and foggy from the cold. 



The last time she was here it was a battle between her and Sombra. 

The last time she was here it was a battle between her and Sombra. 

“Okay voice you wanted me here. I’m here! So show yourself.” Twilight calls out. 

The high winds drowned out her call. Twilight ventures out into the cold further. The wind blew stronger, Twilight covered her face with her wing avoiding the possible small ice shards going to her eyes, she felt her necklace loosen a little.

"Uh oh..." Twilight looked at her neck, the necklace was gone, her eyes widened.

"Oh that's just great, Zecora's going to kill me!" Twilight rants in the middle of a mild blizzard, her voice muffled by the strong winds.
 
She sighed. “Okay voice you wanted me here. I’m here! So show yourself.” Twilight calls out once again. 

“Come with me…” 

“You know I would if I could, but it’s obvious that I can’t!” Twilight shouts. 

“Come with me…” 

The figure who has been calling to her, steps out of the fog as Twilight’s eyes blurred with tears. “S-Sombra… but I thought-” Twilight’s breath caught in her throat. 

She races toward Sombra, as she envelopes him into a hug, as tears streamed down her cheeks. “I… I thought I lost you…” she softly cries. 

The pair stayed like that for a moment, pure silent filled between the two. “.... my dear I am never far from you.” Sombra said, lightly kissing Twilight’s head. 

“So that was you who was calling out? You’re the one who had been calling to me… and Stormy?” Twilight said.

“You mean Stormy can hear it as well?” Sombra asked. 

Twilight nods. “... yes.” Tears still softly flowing. 

“You can come back with us! We can be a family again.” Twilight said, getting an idea. 

“My dear, I’m not welcomed anywhere I’m an outcast anywhere and everywhere.” Sombra explains. 

“The hell I put you through I can’t bear myself to do that to you again.” Sombra said. 

“... but as long as you’ve been out here… you’ve changed.” Twilight said. 

“But is it for better or worse?” Sombra questions. 

Twilight stays quiet. “I have missed you both every second of every day, how I wish I could be with you both it kills me knowing that I can’t.” Sombra said. 

“If you haven’t noticed, I'm the ruler of all of Equestria now, so if anypony as a problem with it they have to answer to me.” Twilight said. 

“My dear, your gestures are too kind but-” Sombra said. 

“Look the author didn’t just waste forty-nine pages for nothing and besides Stormy adored you. Just think of how excited she would be to finally reunite with you after all these years.” Twilight said. 

“.... Stormy still thinks about me?” Sombra questions. 

“Of course she does.” Twilight softly said. 

“She worries me sometimes however, especially when she falls into her depression state. Maybe the reason why is because she misses her father. You’ve been out here for 17 years Sombra you’ve missed 17 years of her life, please don’t miss the rest of her life.” Twilight said, as tears formed in her eyes. 

Sombra thought for a moment. “Besides there is something I would like to ask you, but not here nor in this condition. Give me a few days will ya?” Sombra asked. 

“.... of course, but on one condition, you come back with me so we can be a family again.” Twilight said. 

“But what if I try to hurt you? I’m not exactly reformed you know.”  Sombra said. 

“Looks like to me you’ve had plenty of time to make up for it, besides our love is one and still is after all these years.” Twilight said, giving Sombra a soft kiss. 

“So please come home.” Twilight softly pleads.


*** 


It’s been a few weeks since Harmonia and Stormy have seen their mother. 

“Stormy! Why didn’t you tell me that Mom was gone?! I could have gone with her to protect her.” Harmonia said. 

“And you don’t think I tried?! Believe me I tried to go with her, but she avoided taking me with her and I quote: “She didn’t want to put anypony else in danger”.” Stormy explains. 

“You still should have stopped her.” Harmonia scolds. 

“We can get somepony to help us look for her before it’s too late like Tempest or Spike or ugh! Somepony- we can't just sit here and do nothing.” Stormy said. 

“How about we go look for her ourselves? Where did she say she was going?” Harmonia asked. 

“Umm… The Frozen North.” Stormy said, thinking for a bit. 

“Then that’s where we will go.” Harmonia said, before she got a chance to snap her paws, the doors opened to reveal somepony. 

“That won’t be necessary girls.” Said Twilight. 

“Mom!” Harmonia ran to hug her mother. 

“Mother!” Stormy said, hugging her. 

Stormy looks at her. “Did you find the voice? Did you find who was calling you?” She asked. 

Twilight lightly giggles. “.... yes.” Twilight said.

As if on cue another pony enters the room, Stormy’s eyes filled with tears. “.... Father?” She softly whispers before going in to hug him. 

“My dear Stormy, there’s not a moment that goes by that I haven’t thought about you. I’ve missed you.” Sombra said, softly mumbles. 

Sombra then looks toward Harmonia. “So you are the daughter Twilight has told me so much about.” Sombra said, his voice calm. 

Harmonia slowly nods her head. “And you're King Sombra.” Harmonia said, slightly speechless by his appearance.

“Indeed I am.” Sombra said, giving a soft smile. 

“Wait, so you mean to tell me that King Sombra was the one calling you?” Harmonia asked, her tone in disbelief. 

Twilight softly nods. 

“Now come on I believe we have a lot to catch up on.” Twilight said. 


*** 


Two months later….


Twilight looks at her few family members, friends, nieces and nephews who were shocked to see just who was standing before them. 

“.... but I thought we murdered him?!” HoneyCrisp asked in disbelief. 

“I mean we had the whole rainbow lasers, a-and the phew!” Prism said. 

“How in Equestria did you manage to even survive that?!” Opheila asked

“.... so you mean to tell me that we are talking to a dead guy.” Meadow Bliss asked, his tone chilled. 

“I’m very much alive as you can tell…” Sombra mutters. 

“Twi, do we have to blast him back to the Ethers again, because I vote Rarity to do it.” Rainbow Dash said, glaring at him. 

“What! Why me?” Rarity asked, caught off guard. 

“Because for one your a unicorn and two when Twilight was in danger you totally used that big sheet of rubble to knock out Chrysalis, Tirek and Cozy Glow. So if you handle them with ease then you can totally handle King Ego over here.” Rainbow Dash said. 

Sombra growls. 

“Let’s lighten him up ladies! …. a-and gentlemen!” Confetti shouts. 

“Rainbow Dash! I will not intune such violence.” Rarity said, in defense.

“Fine! I am not afraid to do it! And I’ll make sure he’s permanently dead.” Rainbow Dash threatens. 

“Now hold on there Dash. I’m sure Twilight has a very good reason for bringing him back.” Applejack said. 

“Honestly, it’s a long story.” Twilight mutters. 

“Mom started to second guess her role here as Ruler of Equestria until she started hearing “Come With Me” and seeing some disturbing stuff. So her only hope was going to Zecora who gave her a magical item to travel to the North, after she whacked her over the head with a staff and pulled a “lesson from Lion King” so she went to go find the voice being Sombra after they broke into a musical number. Except mom convinced him to come back here, so we got that going for us. Any questions?” Harmonia  explains. 

“Huh? I guess it wasn’t really that long of a story.” Twilight muttered. 

“Can we still light him up?!” Confetti Pop asked her tone eager and excited. 

“No children, wait..” Twilight said, walking over to Sombra she looks at him with caring demeanor. 

“Why did you call for me? Why did you decide to return to me? After all, you're not reformed.” She asked, her tone soft. 

“You may not be Radiant Hope, but you are far more interesting. However, not everything is simply solved by Friendship facts or lessons my dear. Sometimes ponies change on their own without even realizing it. You were my saving grace.” He said, softly smiling at her. 

“So does this mean Sombra is reformed?” Fluttershy asked. 

“I would say from the looks of it semi, but not entirely. He's still the King of Shadows, but it seems that he really did love and care for somepony like you, Twilight.” Rarity said. 

“But if you do anything to my little sister you’re going back to the Ethers bud.” Shining said, narrowing his eyes.

Sombra growls, his eyes glowing. 

Twilight puts a hoof to his chest. “Don’t.” She pleads, her eyes softly pleading. 

“..... fine but only doing this for you.” He mutters. 

“Seems like we have a long way to go before he’s truly reformed.” Mutters Rainbow Dash. 

“I know I may not have been the perfect husband to you, but I want to make up for that now.” Sombra explains. 

“Sombra?” Twilight questions, wondering where this was heading. 

“I guess what I'm trying to say is… will you marry me?” Sombra asks, his tone bashful. 

Twilight was speechless. “I-” 

“I think you broke my mom.” Harmonia said, waving her paw in front of Twilight. 

“I understand if you would rather wait. I mean after everything you have been through I completely understand your decision if you decide to wait. But I promise not only to you, but to you as well Harmonia Sparkle that I will be the best father like figure I can be to you- and my own daughter Stormy. ” Sombra continues. 

“Mom? Say something.” Harmonia said, slightly worried. 

Twilight took Sombra's small speech into account. After what felt like an eternity of waiting for an answer, she finally came to her choice. “Of course I'll marry you.” Twilight said, as a huge grin plastered on her face. 

Sombra then kisses Twilight, from afar Twilight's friends watch, all smiling. 

“Hey! You know what this calls for?” Pinkie Pie asked, her tone bubbly. 

“Planning wedding number 2 next year?” Fluttershy  asks.

“Heck yeah we are!” Rainbow Dash said, pumping her hoof into the air. 


***


One year later…. 

Twilight looks at herself in the elongated mirror on the mirror. In just less than two hours she was about to marry the love of her life. 

There was a knock on the door. “Come in!” Twilight calls out. 

In walks Sombra, in a very slick black tuxedo. 

“Sombra you know it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.” Twilight scolds. 

“That's simply a silly false rumor my dear.” Sombra said, his tone calm. 

“And I must say you look very beautiful in that gown.” Sombra said, eyeing Twilight's figure. 

Twilight blushes. “Is there something you needed to tell me? I mean it couldn't wait til after you saw me walking down the aisle?” Twilight questions. 

“No it simply could not.” Sombra said, his voice rather calm. 

He enters the room Twilight was in, locking the door behind him. “Sombra? Why did you lock the door?” Twilight asks, her tone cautious. 

Sombra leans in to kiss Twilight, but she puts a hoof at his chest. “How about we save it for the wedding.” Twilight said, her voice calm and in a hushed tone. 

Sombra gives her a smirk. “Deal.” He murmurs. 


***


The wedding was held outside of Applejack's family barn. The scene was beautiful like something out of a romance movie. It was classic chic as Rarity would put it. 

The scenery before them had rustic, but elegant decorums to it. Bales of hay as well as Southern hanging light bulbs hang from the ceiling as well as a few dangling fairy lights. 

This time Twilight didn't want a big wedding, only her best friends and family were there. As well as her nieces, nephews, two daughters, Discord, Celestia, Sunset, Spike, Phoenix and Kunzite. Alongside Trixie was her two children, Starlight, Tempest, and a few personal invited guest for the special ceremony. 

Luna's moon glistening in the nearby pond, casting an elegant glow above the Apple family barn. 

“Sorry that the wedding was last minute Twi.” Applejack said, her tone apologetic. 

“It's okay Applejack really this is beautiful.” Twilight said. 

Fluttershy then got her birds to sing The Wedding March once more. Everypony stands. 

“Are you sure you're okay with Sombra marrying your sister?” Cadence asks, her tone soft and a bit unsure. 

“I've been overseeing things between him and her for the past year and a half since he's been reformed. And if you ask me he has been nothing, but a gentlecolt to her. So I approve.” Shining said, as he watched his little sister and dad went down the white satin aisle. 

“Take care of her.” Night Light said to Sombra. 

Sombra nods. “You're daughter is in good hoofs, sir.” He said. 

Night Light nods and walks over to his wife, taking his seat. 

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today- I mean- tonight to witness the special union formed between Princess Twilight Sparkle and King Sombra. The love for these two undeniable, the commitment  of their love is clear and they are both fantastic rulers with pure intentions for this land. I assume that you both have vows prepared?” Luna asks. 

They both nodded. “Well I didn't exactly write mine down. So I'm just going to wing it.” Sombra said. 

A light chuckle waves through the crowd, before silence consumes the atmosphere once again. 

“Twilight, the moment I first laid eyes on you I knew you were the one. You are beautiful, strong minded, fearless. Those are just a few of the qualities I admire about you. We have been through a lot in the past couple of years, but I am so glad you decided to stay by my side through it all. I promise to you and the kids that I will be the best husband and father I can be to both you and the girls.” Sombra said. 

Twilight blushes, then gently smiles. “Sombra, you are truly amazing. You have definitely changed my life for the better and I am forever grateful for you. Thank you for showing me what true love actually is and for being there not only for me, but for Harmonia as well. Thank you for treating her like your own. You are truly remarkable. You are like my knight in shining black armor that I have waited all these years for. Thank you for coming into my life.” Twilight said. 

“May I have the rings please?” Luna asks. 

Kunzite holds out the rings, for Luna to take. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss your bride.” Luna said, giving the two a soft smile. 

Sombra then leans in to kiss Twilight. “Best day ever!” Squeals Flurry from the crowd. 


***

Harmonia was standing by the refreshment table, softly smiling as she watched her mom and stepdad elegantly dancing across her Aunt Applejack's barnyard floor. Hanging light bulbs and fairy lights illuminate their features casting a soft glow around them. 

Harmonia continues to sip her drink, but a small voice causes her to look down. 

“Um… Harmonia?” 

It was Stormy. 

“Oh, hey Stormy.” Harmonia said. 

“Look, I'm sorry about what I said earlier. I've never had a sister before. So this change is all so new to me.” Stormy explains. 

“It's-” Harmonia said, but Stormy cut her off.

“I've never had a sister before, so I'm not sure what it is like to have another sibling.” Stormy continues. 

Harmonia gave a light giggle. “Stormy, it's okay. I forgive you.” She wraps her sister around her neck.

“Just like that huh? Wow! Our family and friends are a really forgiving group.” Stormy said. 

Harmonia giggles. “You have no idea.” She mutters to her sister. 

“Sorry to interrupt you Princess, but could you please help us?” A familiar voice asks. 

It was Prism. 

Harmonia turns around to come face to face with not only Prism, but Ophelia and Illusion as well as her other friends.  

“Geez I haven't even been crowned princess for 4 years yet and you already need my help? Whatever do you oh so need?” Harmonia asks, her tone full of sarcasm.

“Haha very funny.” Prism said, his tone equally as sarcastic. 

“Please tell these two who you have picked. They have been driving us crazy since the ceremony.” Cotton Berry explains. 

“Darling, we have been patient with you and have given you time, but who do you choose?” Ophelia asks. 

“Indeed! So who do you pick?” Illusion asks, agreeing with the feline's statement. 

“I choose-” Harmonia said, but Confetti Pop cuts her off. 

“Ohhh! This is so exciting!” Squeals Confetti Pop. 

“This is just like the final episode of The Ponyerlotte where it all comes down to: One. Final. Rose.” Confetti explains. 

She hands Harmonia a rose from her mane giving it to her. “Geez… thanks Fetti.” Harmonia mutters. 

She looks down from the rose back to her two lovers. She breathes a sigh of relief. “I choose-” 

“Remember all those fun times we had together?” Opeliah asks, her tone flirtatious. 

“But I bet it's not as fun as the times that we have had. Remember how much trouble we would get into? Remember that food fight that got messy. Food was everywhere with us in the crossfire. Boy, was Twilight and my mother was furious.” Illusion chuckles. 

“That's because it was my only chance to actually get away to talk to you.” Harmonia said, remembering that night. 

“Exactly.” Illusion said, winking at her. 

Harmonia's face reddened by how much attention she was getting from these two. “Would you two stop it with the flirting! You are not making this any easier.” Harmonia explains. 

She then breathes in a soft sigh. “Could you excuse me for just one second?” Harmonia asks, she snaps her paw and teleports out of the room and outside to get some cool fresh air. 


***


“Miss. Shimmer? You returning to your own world so soon?” Harmonia asks, confused by why she was standing outside. 

“No, we decided to stay a bit longer. I was actually coming outside for some much needed air. Did some thinking of my own so to  speak. However, I was just about to head back inside to congratulate your mother on her wedding, but what are you doing outside instead of enjoying her after party?” Sunset asks. 

“Well I was, but now I'm doing the same thing you were just doing. Doing some thinking of my own.” Mumbles Harmonia. 

“Would you like to talk about it? Come on. It's better to keep it out in the open than in, right?”  Sunset asks. 

Harmonia sighs. “It's just Opeliah and Illusion are making me choose between them. And I'm not sure who to choose, they are both so sophisticated and classy. I just don't know if I'm right for either of them.” Harmonia explains. 

“Don't lower yourself just because somepony is more wealthy than you. Love and friendship is not about wealth. It's about the bond and memory that you created with them. Love comes from here,” Sunset explains, she touches Harmonia’s heart. 

“Not here.” Sunset said, ruffling Harmonia’s mane. 

Harmonia giggles. “Love is a powerful devotion, full of passion and emotion. So whoever you choose. Make sure you will be choosing with emotions and feelings rather than logic. As the saying goes the heart wants what it wants. Listen to your heart and you will never go wrong.” Sunset said, smiling at the draconequus. 

Harmonia breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you for the advice Miss. Shim-” 

“Please call me Sunset.” Sunset said. 

“Sunset. I think I know who to choose.” Harmonia said. 

“Great! Let's go back inside before they wonder where you went off to.” Sunset said. 


*** 

Harmonia slows her breathing before entering. 

“Where in Celestia's name did you wander off to?” HoneyCrisp asks. 

“I just needed to get some fresh air, that's all.” Harmonia explains. 

“Are you feeling better now?” Meadow Bliss asks. 

“Much better.” Harmonia said. 

She turns back to Sunset, who nods at her before walking off. 

“.... Okay I've done a lot of thinking and mental analysing. You both are amazing, caring and supportive even. But there can only be one. The special somepony that I choose is….” Harmonia said, looking cautiously between the two. 

“Can you just say it already?! The anticipation is killing us! Fine if you can't pick then I'll pick for you. Here!”  Confetti Pop said, her tone eggered. 

Confetti Pop places Illusion in front of her. “Yay! We're all happy.” Her tone is fakely amusing. 

Harmonia giggles at her friend's antics. “Thanks for the amusing assistance Confetti. But this is based on pure emotional feeling not logical thinking.” Harmonia explains to her friend. 

“Does anyone here speak nerd?” Prism asks.

Cotton Berry sighs. “It means she is going to pick with her heart instead of with logic.” Cotton Berry explains. 

“You know how the saying goes: The heart wants what it wants. You can't help who you fall in love with.” HoneyCrisp said. 

“And I pick you.” Harmonia said, softly smiling at Ophelia. 

“Me? But why me?” Ophelia asks. 

“Because like you said before: “We are different from everypony else and that is what makes us special. We get each other like no one else does.” Harmonia explains.

Ophelia blushes. “Plus there was this poll between you and Illusion that the author/director made and you won by a landslide.” Confetti Pop explains. 

“Confetti, that's ridiculous.” HoneyCrisp said. 

“No it doesn't look.” Confetti Pop said, pulling the poll out of thin air. 

“I swear this isn't what it looks like.” Harmonia mutters. 

“It doesn't matter now. All that matters is that we are together now.” Ophelia purrs. 

Harmonia giggles. 

Starlight watches from afar, smiling that her niece finally found happiness and peace after everything that she has been through over the years. 

“Harmonia and Opeliah look so happy together. Don't they?” Starlight asks. 

“Indeed!” Trixie said. 

“And now it's time for you to choose your own happiness, Starlight.” Tempest said. 

“So? Who do you choose, Star?” Trixie asks. 

Starlight bit her bottom lip. “I choose….” 


***

Harmonia and Ophelia walk over to Starlight, Mystic and Crystal. 

“Would you girls like to say something?” Starlight asks. 

Mystic sighs. “Harmonia, I am sorry for everything that I have ever done to you when we were kids. I am truly sorry.” Mystic said, her tone sincere. 

Crystal nods her head agreeing with the magician's daughter.

Harmonia smirks at them. “It's okay Mystic. We both had some maturing and growing up to do.” Harmonia said, her voice equally as sincere. 

“Friends?” Mystic asked. 

“Friends.” Harmonia said, smiling at Mystic. 

“Oh, how I wish there was a beautiful princess to dance with.” Ophelia said, her tone vaguely sweet, but a tad sarcastic.

Harmonia lightly giggles. “Yes, wouldn't that be nice.” Harmonia smirks. 

Starlight gave a small smile and shook her head. 

“Aunt Starlight, maybe there's somepony special you would like to dance with.” Harmonia said, smiling at her aunt. 

 The last song of Twilight's wedding reception came on for tonight, it was a slow and peaceful song. Everypony was coupled up with each other, swaying romantically to the music. 

All except one, Starlight. 

Starlight watches from afar, smiling that her niece finally found happiness and peace after everything that she has been through over the years. 

“Oh I’m so happy for Harmonia and Opeliah. They look so happy with each other.” Starlight thought. 

She turns to leave the reception, walking inside of Applejack's barn but coming out on the other end on the backside to catch some fresh air. 

She pushes open the backdoor of the barn to come face to face with somepony all too familiar. 

Trixie. 

Starlight gave a smile at her and continued walking towards her. She tops in front of Trixie who softly smiles at her. 

Trixie takes Starlight hoof into hers. Starlight lightly blushes. They stay silent for a moment, gazing at each other. 

Harmonia and the others peek around the barn to see what was going on. All of them remained silent, watching. Ophelia and Confetti Pop both practically had heart eyes watching the two. 

Trixie and Starlight remind quite, unsure of what to say to each other. “I'm not sure where life will take us in the future, but I know one thing is definitely for sure. I am sure about us!” Trixie explains. 

“So sure that you would ask me to be your marefriend?” Starlight smirks. 

Trixie nods, blush rising to her cheeks. “D-definitely.” She said, slightly baffling.

Starlight blushes, kissing Trixie on the cheek. “I would love to be your marefriend.” Starlight whispers. 

Trixie smiles back, They both look up at the moon, their hooves still intertwined with one another's. 

“Now this was a great wedding.” Murmurs Harmonia.