A Hero in need

Chapters

Chapter 1: Comforting a friend
Chapter 2: Drake to the rescue
Chapter 3: Finally home
Chapter 4: The next morning
Chapter 5: Getting closer
Chapter 6: Sharing secrets
Chapter 7: The Moon or the Stars?
Chapter 8: Fixing things
Chapter 9: The night of her life
Chapter 10: Finally together
Chapter 11: Can you feel the love tonight?
Chapter 12: The family grows bigger
Final chapter: The birth of a new Star

Chapter 1: Comforting a friend

Years had passed after Drake's arrival in Equestria. Over time Drake became one of Equestria's many protectors and he even managed to build up a family. His son, Hot Shot, had the same sense of loyalty that Drake had toward his family and friends. His wife was a rather special mare, who showed him how to enjoy life some more. She was a circus performer known as Show Light, while her real name was Spectrum. That's right. WAS.

It was a mutual decision of Drake and Spectrum for her to join her old colleagues at the circus once more. She would visit Hot Shot whenever she had the chance. However... One night, Spectrum didn't arrive at Drake's home. He was worried, so he decided to leave his two year-old colt with his best friend, Pinkamena Diane Pie, while he went off to travel to her 'workplace'. When he arrived there, her colleagues had a rather grim look. An accident had occured during an act. The net underneath the tight rope ripped when a pony fell, instantly killing the performer in the process.

This performer...was Spectrum.

After hearing the news, Drake didn't get enraged as he would when his dear ones were in danger. No, what was the point of being enraged? Nopony had killed her, and seeing how she was dead, she wasn't in danger anymore, after all. No, Drake became broken. And over time, his friends began noticing.

Pinkamena, or Diane, as Drake called her since they first met, sat in the lobby of the Sugar Cube Corner. Under the stairs, however. An earthquake would strike Ponyville soon, though unknown when. This, however, didn't stop a certain grey stallion to go on one of his evening strolls.

As Drake walked, his face looked rather worn out, showing signs that he had been crying. Again. Drake would walk around his favorite spots where he and Spectrum would spend time together. It reminded him of happy times with her, and he hoped it would make him happy again. But deep inside, Drake knew he would be lonely for a long time.

By now, his walk ended up in a forest similar to the Everfree Woods. This forest was beautiful at night when the moon would shine through the leaves of the trees. "Yo, Drake. Mind if I join ya?", a voice spoke behind him. It was a familiar voice to Drake, the voice of his friend, Azaxol. Azaxol was one of those special friends of his, a half-demon, to keep it short. Drake glanced behind him, nodding. He stood still for a moment to let Azaxol catch up to him.

Aza looked a little concerned. "How's life been treating you lately, man?" Only a simple stare came from Drake, and his eyes focused on the road in front of him yet again. "I've been better, Aza. We both know that." Aza could only nod in agreement. "You should really lighten up, man. Life's not over, you know."

A glare from Drake followed after that remark. "Drake, come on. You have your son. He means a lot to you, right?" His glare softened at Aza's question, and he teared up a little. "I miss her, Aza. I have no problem with raising Hot Shot. I'm just- I'm lonely." Aza let out a silent sigh. "I know, Drake. Everyone of us knows and sees that." Drake shut his eyes shortly. "Sorry. I don't want you guys to worry about-"

Drake's sentence was cut short as a loud, feminine scream filled the air. Aza and Drake shared a glance, and Aza waved his hoof, making an 'after you'-gesture, smirking a bit. The two stallions began galopping towards the scream.

Somepony was in danger, and Drake had to fulfill his duty. And he would fulfill that duty.

Chapter 2: Drake to the rescue

The running suddenly came to a stop as a mare bumped into Azaxol, causing Drake too look back. The mare looked frightened, some tears rolling across her face and she appeared to be trembling. A stallion appeared to be chasing her, and he stood still in front of Drake and Aza, wobbling on his legs. Clearly this stallion had drank too much cider, or any alcohol for that matter.

"Oi, that there mare be mine", he spoke in a tone that definitely confirmed he was drunk. "I paid her to have some fun~", he continued, and Drake and Aza glanced at the mare in question, whom had hidden behind Aza's back by now. "Ah ain't that kind o' mare!", she yelled with a tremble in her voice, which appeared to have a slight southern accent, much like the farmers at Sweet Apple Acres. "Please, y'all gotta help me" was the next thing she said. Drake glanced back at the drunkard, and before he realized it, the drunkard's hoof had hit his face, leaving the mare in shock. This guy was actually picking a fight with Drake. Something Azaxol knew was a foolish thing to do as a common pony. He smirked at that thought.

Drake grabbed the hoof pressed against his face, holding it slightly away from him. Glancing at Aza, he grinned. "Aza, did this guy really try to punch me like that?" Azaxol couldn't help but just chuckle at that remark. "I think he just did, Drake. What're you gonna do about that?" The drunkard attempted to use his other hoof to free himself, to no avail. Drake leaned back, and gave the drunk fighter a hard headbutt, slamming him on the ground, letting go of his hoof. It was clear that must've hurt.

The mare behind Aza looked surprised, yet impressed. This guy was actually standing up for her without even knowing who she was! The drunkard stood up, rubbing his head and glaring at Drake. "Now, I'll only be telling you once. Leave this mare alone and go back to wherever you came from.", Drake said in a very serious tone. This didn't stop the drunkard from making another move at his face, though. With a quick reflex, Drake grabbed the hoof coming at him, and grinned slightly, looking him directly in the eyes. "...Wrong answer."

A combo of a stomach punch and uppercut sent the helpless drunk pony flying against a tree, even pushing him IN the tree slightly. Slowly and intimidating, Drake walked up to him. "Now, I'm in a good mood, so listen closely." Aza smirked a bit. Drake was so not in a good mood. "Leave the mare be, or I'll send you flying to Canterlot Mountain. And trust me, I can send you flying to Canterlot Mountain." Fear began filling the drunkard's face. "B-But I paid her, sh-she's mine!", he yelled as he began squirming his way out of his narrow position. "Aza?", Drake asked as he glanced at him. "Do what you feel like doing~", Aza replied in a playful tone.

Without hesitation, Drake unleashed a powerful punch, his hoof seemingly on fire. It was a technique he had been practicing which he called Crimson Fists. The drunkard was sent flying, and Aza laughed at the scene. The mare's eyes had widened and a slight sparkle filled them. She ran up to Drake, flying at his neck hugging him.

"Ya saved me! Yer mah hero!", she yelled, crying in joy. "Wut do ah call ya?" Drake smiled warmly at her. It was a smile that not Aza or any of Drake's friends had seen as of lately. "I'm DrakeFang. Do call me Drake." The mare nodded, and replied right away. "Mah name's Moonshine. Thanks fer savin' me, Drake." A chuckle was heard coming from Drake. "You're welcome, miss Moonshine."

Moonshine let go of Drake's neck. She had been saved...

Chapter 3: Finally home

Chapter 3: Finally home

As the three walked on, a sudden tremor forced them to lay down on the ground. Out of reflex, Drake rested his hoof slightly over Moonshine's back. When the tremor settled, the three ponies looked at each other. "Are we all OK?", Aza asked right away. Drake and Moon just nodded at the question. "Wut wus that?", Moonshine asked the two. She had a feeling that the stallions with her knew about the earthquake. "This earthquake had been coming for a while. We're lucky we were here at a safe spot in the open.", Drake replied.

"So uhm...", Moon began hesitantly, "ah ain't goin' back home fer a while, so, where can ah go fer nah"? Azaxol smiled at Drake, who replied with yet another nod. "You can stay at Sugar Cube Inn, miss Moonshine. It's free of charge, so you don't need bits." Moon smiled and began following Azaxol back to Sugar Cube Corner whereas Drake went his own way, back to his own house. He looked back at Moonshine and turned his head away when she glanced back. Drake felt a slight spark ignite in himself somehow. He hadn't felt such a spark in a long time.

As he returned home, a red colt came running up to him, having little tears in his eyes. It was terrible to watch an 8 year-old colt cry. When Drake lowered himself to Hot Shot's level, he asked him what was wrong. "Dad, our house, it's..." Hot guided his father to their house, which had been completely levelled. Barely anything remained, yet at the side of the rubble, two moderate sized chests were standing. "Dirt told me to take anything valuable to us and put them in those chests, so that's what we did." With 'Dirt', Hot Shot meant Dirt Block, one of Drake's first friends when he came to Equestria. "I guess it's time then. Let's go, Hot." The colt followed his father to the one place they figured they could go.

Sugar Cube Corner.

By now, Azaxol had left for his room when Moonshine had received hers. She began chatting a little with Pinkie, who was listening to her story excitedly, giggling occasionally. "Yeah, that's Drake for you, alright. He saved me multiple times as well.", she said, and Moon's eyes were sparkling a little. "He really IS a hero, huh?", she asked Pinkie, kinda knowing the answer already. "Yeah, he is~", she replied with a smile. A short bit later, Hot came trotting into the lobby, standing in front of Pinkie. "Pinkie's eyes widened a tiny bit as she looked at the colt. "Hot Shot? What are you doing here, sweetie?" She picked him up and glanced at the door, where Drake stood.

"Oh, I see. Hey, Dr-" She stopped her sentence as she saw the two chests next to Drake. His eyes were slightly teared up. Not only had his wife been gone, but now, his house had too. Nothing of his old life remained. She set Hot down on a couch, slowly walking over to Drake. Embracing him, she cried and whispered "I'm so sorry" to Drake. Letting go of him, she wiped away a tear. "I've got a family room ready, Drake. It may not be like home, but-" Drake stopped her talking by raising his hoof. Though the tears rolled off it, a small smile filled his face.

"Diane...I am home."

With those words, Drake picked up Hot placing the colt on his back, took the keys and went to the room with the same number as on the keys, entering it. Moon walked over to Pinkie. "Is he alraht?", she asked with a worried look on her face. Pinkie sighed a bit. "He's been going through rough times..." As she looked up at Moon, a warm, hopeful smile appeared on her face. "But maybe you can help him~", she replied playfully. "M-Me? Wut can ah do?"

"I'll tell you later, sweetie~", Pinkie said playfully. I need to know for sure first..., she thought.

Once more, Pinkie's matchmaking instinct was surfacing...

Chapter 4: The next morning

Chapter 4: The next morning

The next morning, Drake woke up rather early and had been sitting on a couch in the lobby for quite a bit. He looked tired. Apparently, he hadn't slept all night. Pinkie was awake early too, because she just knew Drake wasn't OK. The pink pony walked up to her friend, sitting down next to him. "I'm so sorry, Drake. Trust me, I know how unfair life can be." "I know that, Diane...", Drake responded with a sad tone in his voice. Pinkie tried a smile. "But come on, look on the bright side." Without hesitation, he answered her: "What bright side?" A short silence followed and Pinkie's smile grew a little wider. "Well, you live here now. I may not be Spectrum, but you've always told me you'd protect me, your best friend, right? Now that you almost live WITH me, you can always be ready to do so." Drake nodded. "I guess you're right on that one."

Meanwhile, a certain mare had been listening in on the story. All of her focus went to the part of protecting Pinkie, though. So the stallion that saved her didn't do it because it was Moonshine. He saved her because he considered her a friend. Only a friend. He probably wouldn't even notice her. Not like it mattered. She'd be returning to the bar she was working at soon anyway. Pinkie, who had developed a magic skill to read mind over time, smirked a little as she knew Moon stood there thinking these things. As Drake looked at her, she asked him: "So uh, about this mare you saved yesterday. Any reason you did so?" Drake shrugged. "Two reasons, actually." "Really now? Care to tell me which ones?" Her voice sounded playful.

Moon's curiosity only increased as well. She had to hear what he was going to say! Leaning slightly against the wall, she tried her best to remain unseen to the two. "Well Diane, one of the reasons would be that I have to. It's my duty to protect the innocent." Pinkie grinned at that. Other than reading minds, she had a great ability to 'see through' ponies. "Oh, she's innocent, alright. But I know that wasn't the only reason." With that, a small, hopeful smile appeared on Moon's face. Would he say what she think he would say. Pinkie continued. "I've seen the sparkle in your eyes yesterday. You like her, don't you?" Seeing as Pinkie was known as the Matchmaker Innkeeper at Sugar Cube Corner, a slight blush filled Drake's face. "Alright, you've got me. Yes, I may have a slight crush on her."

Moon gasped silently, blushing hard and smiling brightly. He liked her? He really liked her? She continued to listen. "But I'm not ready to move on yet, Diane. I can't let go of Spectrum." Pinkie nodded. "I know what it's like, Drake. Avalon had it hard as well when she decided to break up with Flare." Avalon was Pinkie's oldest daughter. She felt that her boyfriend and the father of their child wasn't exactly the right one for her. Indeed, Pinkamena Diane Pie was even a grandmother already, but Avalon was part demon, speeding up her aging progress. Thus, Diane was quite the young grandmother. "This is different, Diane. I didn't break up with Spectrum. She died and I failed to save her..."

As Moon heard that, her smile vanished. She didn't know he used to be married! However, what -or rather- who she knew was the red colt that came running to the lobby, laughing and chased by another colt of his age. Hot Shot hopped on the couch, chuckling and sitting between Drake and Pinkie. The other colt sat down at Pinkie's lap. "Hey Hot, Card." Hot Shot smiled at Pinkie and answered her in a cheerful way "Hi Pinks!", while Card simply answered "Good morning Diane, Drake" and nodded like an adult. For an 8 year-old colt, Card Trick was quite mature already. Not to mention he was blind, yet he could see, an ability he inherited from his father, Hat Trick. Hot Shot looked up at Drake, noticing he was still a little sad.

"Are you OK, Dad? You've been crying..." Drake nodded at him. "Don't you worry, son. I'm alright." He stood up and turned to face Hot, Card and Pinkie. "I should probably go to work, but I don't have a foalsitter for Hot. Diane, would you mind to-" His question got interrupted by Moonshine walking out from behind the wall she was hiding at. "Ah could foalsit yer son fer a bit. Ah used ta do so all the time when ah wus young." Drake stared for a moment and then smiled.

"Alright, Moonshine. I'm entrusting Hot Shot to you. Hot, you better be a nice colt to miss Moonshine, alright?" As he asked this, he ruffled the colt's mane, and Moonshine sighed at the adorable sight of father and son. As he trotted out, Moonshine walked behind him to wave goodbye. However, what she saw then shocked her in a very good way. Drake seemed to be on fire, flames engulfing him! When the flames died out, he suddenly stood there with wings. And not just feathered wings like hers. No, his were all leathery, like dragons would have. This was his DragonWing form, a transformation Drake had learned over the years.

Drake flew off quite fast, and instead of the common reaction of fright, Moon actually swooned, leaning against the door border. Above her head, imaginary hearts could even be seen. Yes, Moonshine was certain now. This was the guy of her dreams. She could only say one thing to that with a silly smile on her face.

"Wut a stallion..."

Chapter 5: Getting closer

Chapter 5: Getting closer

Moon walked back to Hot Shot and picked up the little colt. "Think ah'm gonna call yer dad 'Firefly'!" Hot and Card both chuckled to this. Slightly confused, Pinkie looked at Moonshine. "You seem eager to foalsit the colt, Moon~", she said playfully. "Of course!", she replied. "Ah used ta foalsit all the tahme b'fore workin' at the bar. Ah jus' luv foals!" A bright smile covered her face entirely. Hot Shot looked up at Moon. "Can Card come over to play, miss Moonshine?" Moon giggled softly. "Of course he can, sweetie!" Both Card Trick and Hot cheered like the playful colts they were. However, Pinkie was a little surprised. Card had never been the most...playful colt, so to say. And Hot had a rough time as well.

The three did all kinds of stuff a normal foalsitter and children would do. They played hide-and-seek, watched a movie together, Moon made some amazing sandwiches for the two... The playdate with her was perfect. Hot laughed all the while, and Card did too, seeing how Hot hadn't laughed like this in a long time. When he remarked that to Hot, Moon looked at him, slightly worried, and sat down on the couch, patting it to tell Hot to sit down. The little colts did so, hopping on said couch.

"Hah come y'all didn't laugh as much, Hot? Yer only 8 years old, y'all SHOULD be laughin' some more..." Hot hung his head a little. "Is it cuz' o' yer mom? That she's not here anymore?" Hot's head jolted up, and tears filled his face. "She is still here, OK!?" Even Card was shocked by his sudden outburst. "Dad told me Mom would never be gone as long as I kept her in my heart! Don't go telling she's not here anymore! Because she is to me!" The colt began crying and Moon's eyes filled with tears as well, and she hugged him tightly. "Ah'm sorry, Hot. Bah the princesses, ah'm so sorry..." She glanced at Card, who nodded at her, knowing what she wanted to ask Hot. "Would y'all...wanna talk about it?"

Hot looked up at her and nodded slowly, sniffing. "M-Mom died when I was only 3 years old." Moon nodded. "How'd she die?" Hot Shot gulped and continued. "She worked in a circus. Mom was the best. She was a mare that walked on the tight ropes. Mom gave up her job when she met Dad, though." A warm smile filled her face. "Ah'd give up mine fer him too..." Card chuckled, and in response, Moon blushed. She really just didn't admit her crush on Drake to the colts, did she? Luckily, Hot didn't hear it clearly and carried on. "She went back when it became too hard to combine family life with her work, and Dad and Mom agreed she'd go back, and visit us whenever she could."

Moon nodded again. "But she didn't return one day. Dad went to investigate. And..." He began crying again. "He came back without her..." The foalsitting mare hugged Hot tighter. "Y'all can stop now if you want to." Hot Shot nodded at that. "I just miss her so bad. I miss having a mom..." A short silence filled the room. "Maybe, if y'all want, Hot..." The colt looked up, and Card smiled as he somehow already knew what was going to come. Moon smiled warmly once more. "Ah could be yer second mom. Ah ain't yer real one, but ah don't like seein' colts sad like this." Card made a silent chuckle as he knew what she was doing. Winning Hot's trust would impress Drake, so if this would work, she wouldn't just gain a stallion, but a son as well. The perfect master plan when it would come to impressing the stallion she had a crush on.

Drake was running rather late from work, so Moon decided to put the two colts to bed. She tucked Card in first, who quickly dozed off to sleep. When she tucked in Hot, she stared for a second to see that Hot was smiling at her. "Thanks for a fun day, miss Moonshine." She ran her hoof through his mane gently, stroking it. "Call me Moon, sweetie. All mah friends 'n family do." Hot Shot nodded, and surprisingly, nuzzled her hoof as he was dozing off as well. When he did, happy tears filled her eyes, and she kissed Hot's forehead. "Sleep tight, lil' one..."

As Moon walked outside to have some fresh air, a voice spoke to her, making her jump a little. She glanced to her side and saw the familiar grey stallion sitting against the wall.

"Hey Moon..."

Chapter 6: Sharing secrets

Chapter 6: Sharing secrets

"Drake? What're y'all doin' outside?" Drake looked at the mare and answered her: "I do this every evening. Come on, have a seat." As he said that, he patted the ground next to him so she could sit down. Moon sat down, a little close to Drake already. But, then again, he didn't mind at all. "What do you think of when you hear the word 'stars', Moon?" Moon quirked an eyebrow. "Uhm, ah s'pose ah think of lil' lights fillin' up the sky at night." Drake chuckled. "Is that how you see it?" "Then how do y'all see 'em?" "Me? I see them as the souls passed away, looking down on us. My mother told me that once. And you know? I think she was right."

She quirked an eyebrow. "Wut do ya mean, she was right?" Drake chuckled again. "Again, I do this every evening. Mother told me if one's bond with these 'stars' is strong enough, it's said their spirits can hear you." Her eyes widened a little. "An' how's that?" Drake lifted his head, but glanced at Moon. "Just watch." His eyes turned upward as well now, looking at the starry night sky. "Spectrum? Say hi to Moonshine, a friend." As he said this, one star began shining even brighter, as if responding to Drake's comment. Moonshine slightly giggled to this. "It really IS true, huh?", she asked. Drake nodded. "I loved my wife very much. I was...devastated when I found out she had passed without me being able to save her." Moon slowly covered her mouth with a hoof.

"Is that why you saved me back there? Because you were able to?" "Perhaps so, Moon. I didn't want your family to lose you." Moon shrugged to this. "Mah family? Mah mum's dead, and mah father beats me. She opened up her wings. Several feathers were either very ruffled or even missing. The wings bent in such a way it was clear they were broken. Moon even winced at this for a moment, leaving a shocked expression on Drake's face. Ah'm basically a slave in the bar. HIS slave." Again, Drake nodded. "I see. Which is why you ran away." "Yeah. Ah couldn't take it anymore... Ah don't wanna go back, Drake, but ah don't have a choice... No way do ah wanna be part o' that family again." Drake rested a hoof on hers. "Then don't go back. Find yourself a new family. A new, better life." They stared into each other's eyes for a moment, the light of the moon seemingly reflecting in them. Moon began leaning closer to him slowly, fully realizing this. Drake did the same...

...But stopped, turned his head again and walked away just like that. Moonshine watched him walk away and sighed. As she walked back inside, Pinkie was smirking at her, leaving a confused look upon Moon's face. "Don't worry, Moon. He just needs some time to think things over." Her grin grew slightly wider. "And a nice little chat~" Moon's face had looked even more confused, if possible at all.

Meanwhile, Drake had walked to a small waterfall. The flowing water always had been calming Drake's mind. And man, did it need some calming down, with all those thought running through it, all those emotions. He sat down right under the flowing water and began meditating. He would do this to not only calm his mind, but to keep his powers under control as well, strengthening his mind.

He sensed a presence, though...

Chapter 7: The Moon or the Stars?

Chapter 7: The Moon or the Stars?

And that presence was none other than his son's best friend, Card Trick. Card had this tendency to appear wherever he believed he was needed. Or maybe he knew he'd be needed. The colt walked up to Drake, smiling and his eyes were shut. Card had this ability to 'see through' ponies, even though he was blind. "Why are you sitting out here all alone on such a beautiful night, Drake?" Drake opened his eyes. "Hello, Card. Knowing you, I bet you already realize why you're here." Card maintained his smile. "Care to enlighten me?", he asked with a playful tone in his voice. Yup, he already knew Drake needed someone right now.

"You know miss Moonshine, don't you?" Card's smile grew a little wider, and the playful tone in his voice remained as well. "Why, yes I do, Drake." Drake sighed. "I'm confused and scared, Card." The colt sat down next to the stallion, his head just above Drake's belly in sitting position. "Most ponies are nowadays." Card was speaking valuable words. Then again, Card had always done so. He was very wise to be just an 8 year-old colt. "But you cannot stop thinking about her, can you?" Card's eyes were still closed as he asked this. He glanced up at the night sky. "Not just her, Card. It's like I'm standing on a road, diverging in two different paths." He glanced up at the sky as well. "And you're not certain whether to follow the Stars or the Moon?" Drake's eyes widened and he glanced back at Card. "You're spot-on..." The colt chuckled. "As usual." His voice sounded teasing. Sighing, Drake held his head in his hooves. "I just- I really don't know what path I should follow, Card." Card tapped his chin for a moment. "You aren't one to follow anypony, Drake. You simply choose your own paths." Drake sighed again. "Card, I can't choose..."

Card tapped his chin again. "What is it you miss about Spectrum, Drake?" Drake looked at Card again. Where would a question like that come from? He chose to answer them anyway. "Well, I miss the attitude she used to have. She'd always act tough and cool around me, but as soon as Hot Shot would appear, she'd turn all kind and soft like a mother should..." Card nodded. "Like Moonshine when around a foal at the inn." Drake went silent. It might have been just a coincidence they shared that trait. "Or she'd call me her 'big strong dragon'..." He chuckled slightly at the nickname. "Like Moonshine calls you 'Hero'?" Now Drake was certain. Card was comparing the two mares. "I even recall her calling you 'Firefly' earlier today when you flew off in your DragonWing form." A short silence followed and Drake chuckled. "Quite the funny nickname." Card replied with "It is, is it not?". "And her eyes..." Card raised an eyebrow, a little grin on his face. "Her eyes showed happiness, and hope. The world could die on her if it meant us looking into each other's eyes, and she'd smile at me..." Slowly, Drake's eyes began tearing up. The emotions were getting the best of him. "Look, Drake, I know not of eyes..." He stood up, grabbing a pebble. "Most say that they're the windows to the soul." As he flicked the stone onto the water, opening his eyes and the image of the moon shining bright in it shattering with ripples, he continued. "Isn't it a shame then that you can't see any happiness in Moon's eyes? She only has hope, Drake. She's had so much sorrow in her life. All she hopes for now...is a Hero." Drake pointed to himself. "You mean...she hopes that...she and I?" Card chuckled softly once more. "If you wish to see it that way. Think of it this way. She ran from home, to Celestia knows where. And then, she stumbled into you. What if Spectrum somehow is sending you a sign?"

Drake raised an eyebrow. "I doubt that, Card. Why would she send me to the arms of another if she's always been the jealous kind of mare?" Card shook his head. "Maybe because she knows you're not letting go? You're clinging too tight on the memories of her, Drake. Perhaps...this Star wishes to fall." Those words pierced through his heart. He indeed couldn't keep clinging on to Spectrum, knowing she wouldn't come back. "I don't want her to fall, Card. Not again." "She never did, Drake. You never let her go. But because you're holding on to her, you can't catch anypony else that falls."

"Listen to me, Drake." Card stood up, now being at Drake's eye height, and lifted Drake's head, staring in his eyes. His face was now a bit more serious and he carried on his speech. It was a funny sight to behold, a colt ranting to a stallion like this. "Everypony dies when they are supposed to, and never without a reason. Have you ever figured Moonshine might've been her reason? Maybe she had to go plainly for letting Moonshine take her place." He let go of Drake's head. "She can never, Card." "And as such, Spectrum has lost, Drake, and she'll forever be lost." He dropped his head and Drake was silent once more. Never before had Card spoken words more true than those. "Think of your heart, Drake. Not of the past." Drake saw his chance for a comeback. "Didn't you say my heart was clinging on the past, though? So what am I supposed to think about then?" For once, Card went silent. "I just don't want you to be making a mistake, Drake." What mistake could Drake possibly make right now? "You miss the mare of your dreams because of a mare that'll only keep existing IN your dreams. Diane has already been working on matchmaking the two of you." Drake scoffed a bit. "I never said I wanted to be matchmade, Card." Card smiled once more. "Ah, but Diane doesn't listen to 'wants'. She listens to 'needs'." Drake was getting confused. "She thinks I need this?" Card chuckled. "Not you, per say. She knows for certain Moonshine needs somepony, and you two fit perfectly."

Drake groaned a little. "I should never have mentioned to Diane I have a crush on Moon... Card chuckled and kept on smiling. "Let's suppose she and I are destined to be together, Card. How can I let go of the past?" The colt's eyes closed. "Don't. Never forget the love you and Spectrum used to share. After all, that love made my brother!" As he said this, referring to Hot Shot, he laughed at his own joke. Hot Shot indeed had always been his 'brother' in the terms of friendship. Drake chuckled along. "Drake, do you like Moonshine?" Softly, Drake nodded. "I won't deny I'm attracted to her, Card." Card nodded as well. "Then love Moonshine and remember Spectrum. Treat Moon like you would the love of your life." Drake looked down. "I don't know if I can, Card."

"Of course you can, you are DrakeFang. Just as I am a Trick, you too have your own legacy." Card and his father, Hat Trick, were known indeed for their...unusual powers and abilities. "By Celestia's name, man..." He grinned and flared his wings. They were metallic, created by the colt himself when he wanted to teach a filly to fly. "Live up to it." Drake watched him as Card flew back to the Sugar Cube Corner. For a few moments, Drake thought things through and stood up, walking back to the inn as well.

His face showed determination unlike he ever had before. And that determination was what he needed.

Chapter 8: Fixing things

Chapter 8: Fixing things

The next morning as Drake walked downstairs at the inn, Pinkie stood near the stairs. She had been waiting for this little ranting do Drake. "What was that all about yesterday, Drake?" He raised an eyebrow, pretending to not know what Pinkie was talking about. "Yesterday?" Pinkie shook her head. "Yesterday evening, Moonshine went to bed with tears in her eyes after your talk. And not the happy kind, Drake. You broke her heart. Faking to kiss her, I figured you were better than that." Drake rubbed his arm awkwardly. "Look, I'm sorry about it, Diane. I wasn't able to let go of Spectrum, afraid to forget her as soon as the kiss would have happened." Pinkie sighed at this. "How would you ever forget about Spectrum? Just look at Hot Shot." She smiled softly when she mentioned the colt's name. "He has his mother's eyes, Drake. If you take a look in those, that's your greatest memory of Spectrum. And one that'll last for good." The stallion nodded at Pinkie. "Diane, you're right. I suppose I don't have to let go.." The pink mare nodded back.

"Now, about Moonshine. How do you plan on fixing things?" Chuckling, Drake winked at Pinkie. "I may have an idea. Gotta have to talk to her first, though." Pinkie pointed her hoof up. "She's in her room. You know where it is." Drake nodded and went upstairs, softly knocking on Moonshine's door. Silent sobbing could be heard. "Wh-who's there?" Drake took a deep breath. "Moonshine, it's me, DrakeFang. Can we talk?" Moon wanted to say no, but said yes before even realizing she did. Drake entered the room, trotting over to the couch that Moon was sitting on. "Hey, Moon." was all Drake could say right now. Moon hesitated but replied "Hah." He sat next to her on the couch as an awkward silence filled the room. "You OK?" Moon was hugging her pillow. "Ah've bin better..." Guilt began filling Drake's heart. "Look, Moon, I'm sorry about yesterday if I upset you." Moon shook her head in denial. "It ain't yer fault, Drake..." How was this not his fault? She seemed to have been crying all morning because of him! Drake began changing the subject.

"Seeing how you're a pegasus, Moon, I gotta ask. Do you enjoy flying?" Moon shrugged. "Mah father's been beating me up since ah wus 10 years old. Ah dunno much about flyin'." Drake tapped his chin. "Would you like to?" Moon's ears perked up and she smiled brightly at Drake. This could be her chance to watch that DragonWing form of his from close up. "Can y'all do that?" Drake chuckled. "I can't." The mare's ears dropped. "Buuuut..."- they perked up again - "Perhaps Diane can help you by fixing those wings of yours. Then I can teach you how to fly!" Tears of joy filled Moon's eyes and she hugged Drake tightly. "That's won'erful! Thank you sooo much, Hero!" She giggled when she gave him the nickname, and blushed slightly as Drake was actually hugging her back. She never noticed before how strong Drake's arms actually were. Then again, he was an Earth stallion. They tended to have better developed muscles. Happily, Moon hopped downstairs.

Pinkie watched the two curiously as they came downstairs. Or, well, 'curiously'. Thanks to Pinkie's magic ablilities she had been able to hear the entire conversation. "Pinks, ah need yer help." Pinkie stopped her talking by raising her hoof. "I know, I know. You want your wings to be fixed. Can I see them for a second?" Carefully, Moon opened up her wings for Pinkie to examine them. "Hm... That's pretty messed up, Moon. But nothing I can't fix." Moon sighed in relief. "Though I'm not gonna lie to you. It'll hurt. A lot. Are you absolutely sure you want this?" She shortly glanced at Drake and nodded. "Ah'm ready." Drake grabbed her hoof, making Moon blush a bright shade of red. "In case it hurts, Moon, you can squeeze my hoof. I'm here." Pinkie smiled. The two really did make a cute couple. She couldn't wait until those two would be dating. Moon was already squeezing a little. The poor mare was hurting, but not on the outside though.

As Pinkie waved a hoof, magic emitting from it, Moon could hear and feel the bones in her wings crack and bend. She shut her eyes tight and squeezed Drake's hoof tight during the process. As tears rolled off her cheeks, Drake wiped away one of them, calming her down. "Just a little more, Moon. Hang on, I'm here." In his mind, he was telling her he'd always be there for her, protect her for good from any harm. For a moment, PInkie read his mind, another ability she had. Her hoof stopped glowing, and Moon's wings had healed completely. Drake held her close against him, and Moon sobbed on his chest. Comfortingly, Drake stroked her mane. "It's OK, Moonshine, it's over..." She looked up at him, and Drake looked in her eyes again. She still had hope in them, and he noticed a slight hint of happiness there. He was making progress. "I-It hurt so much, Drake...", she stuttered. "I know, Moon...But it's over now."

Softly, she smiled at him. "So uh...y'all wanted to teach me ta fly?" He laughed and winked at her. "Let's say... 7 o' clock tonight, at the park?" Moon's eyes widened and began showing even more happiness. Did he just do what she thought he did? Did he actually ask her out on a date? Or could flight lessons be considered a date? It didn't matter to her that much. She would finally get private time with the stallion she dreamed of. She trotted upstairs, giggling all the way like a high school filly.

Pinkie giggled along for a moment. "You're some guy, Drake." He blushed slightly at that remark. "Hey, if I need to apologize to someone, I make sure I do so right." Another giggle followed. "But Moon's not just 'someone' to you, is she?" Drake nodded. "She's special, Diane. Tonight, I'll show her just how special." As Pinkie walked back to her own room, she waved and told him "good luck with it" in a playful tone.

Luck? As Card Trick said, he's DrakeFang. He wouldn't need any luck to pull this off the right way.

Chapter 9: The night of her life

The park, 7 o'clock pm. Moonshine walked up to Drake nervously. The only thing that the stallion was showing was a warm, welcoming smile. "Take it you're ready for your first flight lesson?", he asked her with this smile. Moonshine gave him a nod. "Ah don't think y'all need ta teach me much, though. Pretty much the basics." Drake nodded back. "Right, let's get to it." Moon took on a pose. "To do this, though, you should probably step back." Moon knew what was coming. He'd transform right in front of her. She stepped back, and as she did, Drake burst into flames, re-appearing with dragonic wings, his eyes glowing red and fangs showing. Moon had to try her best not to swoon all over Drake yet again.

Her wings fluttered a little, and without Drake needing to teach her, she flew a little around him, landing. "Ah did it! Ah knew ah didn't forget how ta fly!" She smiled brightly, hopping around happily. Drake chuckled and began wondering why he changed into his DragonWing form at all. Moon stopped hopping in front of him, staring into his eyes, watching the slitted pupils. "Uhm, would ya mind flyin' 'round a bit with me, Drake?" He raised an eyebrow and smiled once more. "Sure. We could do that.", he answered. Moon's smile grew even brighter and then turned into a smirk. "Y'all wanna race?" Once more, Drake chuckled. "You wanna race me?" Moon nodded. "Y'all scared, Firefly?", she asked him in a playful tone. "Oh, you are so on! Where to?", he replied. Moon looked around and in the distance, she saw a huge waterfall. Pointing to it, she says to Drake: "First one ta reach the waterfall wins." Drake nodded to this. "Sure thing." Both stood ready to begin. Glancing at each other, both showed a slight blush before looking back at their finishing line. Drake counted down, shouted "GO!", and the race began.

Moon knew she would be losing. As they were flying, Moon's wings cramped up due to not being used at the speed and power they were being used at. She wasn't able to keep flying, and began falling from the height they were at. "D-Drake, help me!", she shouted as she began falling. Drake's eyes widened as he saw this. He would refuse to lose another mare in his life. Quickly rushing back to her, he grabbed Moon in his arms right before she hit the ground and flew up. Looking at her during the flight, a worried look filled his face. "Moon, are you OK?" She winced a little. "M-My wings! They cramped up!" Drake's face looked even more worried. Flying her down again, he landed on a rock in the middle of the lake.

"Moon, I...I'm so sorry. I should've... I should've kept track of your capability..." As Drake began tearing up, she placed a hoof on his shoulder and smiled. " 'T ain't yer fault, Drake..." Slowly, his tears disappeared and he sat down. Moon smiled more and sat down next to him. "You know, Moon..." She raised an eyebrow. "Wut?" Drake looked around him, seeing nothing but the water around him. "Wait a little bit. Then you'll see what I mean." A silence fell over the scene. Subtly, Moon had been snuggling against Drake, waiting for whatever Drake had in store for her.

"Hey Moon. Close your eyes for a second." Moon giggled and did so. With a clap of Drake's hoof, she jumped a little. "Okay, you can look again." Moon opened her eyes, and she couldn't believe what she saw. All around her, little fireflies were flying. A few geysers were even spouting, something Drake had been practicing on. Moon's eyes sparkled at the scene. Seeing this, Drake turned her head at him. "Moon, there is something I need to tell you." Nothing could ruin Moon's night right now. "Yeah, Drake? Somethin' y'all wanna tell me?"

"Well, uhm...Moon...You see, I..." Drake began getting nervous. Never before had Drake been this nervous. This was the moment he would finally be confessing his feelings. He took a deep breath and looked deep into her eyes, reverting to his original form. "Moon, this scene is beautiful. But there's something even more beautiful here." Moon giggled. "Y'all ain't sayin' that's-" Drake nodded. "Yes, Moon. I mean you." Moon's eyes widened and a bright blush appeared on her face. "Moonshine, you are beautiful. Whenever I'm with you, I manage to bring up a smile..." Moonshine blushed even brighter. "And I think it's time...to do something I should've done last night." He brought his hoof up against her cheek and kissed Moon passionately. Shocked, yet enjoying it, she closed her eyes. After a short bit, they broke the kiss.

"I love you...Moonshine. From the day I met you." Moonshine had a stupid grin on her face, blushing as she nodded. She swooned and fainted against Drake's chest. With an awkward smile and a blush, he caught her, holding her in his arms. "I uh... I guess I'll take her home now, hehe..."

It had finally happened. And a certain pink mare knew back at the inn knew...

Chapter 10: Finally together

Chapter 10: Finally together

Drake put Moon to bed and walked back downstairs where Pinkie had been waiting. She smirked at him. "Something the matter, Diane?", Drake replied with a playful tone. "Oh, you know what's up. Dragging Moon in here with a smile like that? You confessed, didn't you?" Drake nodded lightly. "We uh..." A little blush appeared on his cheeks. Pinkie's eyes and mouth widened. "You kissed!?", she nearly shouted. "M-hm. And it was magical, Diane." She squeed as she heard this. "I hoped you would say that!" He simply smiled and began walking back to his room. Pinkie stopped him, though. "So uh, you two. Are you a thing now?" Drake chuckled at her question. "I guess we are, yeah. See you tomorrow, Diane." Pinkie nodded and walked back to her own room.

The next morning, Moon sat on the couch excitedly, occasionally looking at the staircase. She couldn't wait for her stallion to get out of bed, after all. Pinkie giggled at Moon and sat on the couch across her. "So, Moon. You enjoyed your date with Drake?" She nodded quickly. "Can't wait for 'im ta come down!" As she said this, Drake came downstairs smiling. "Morning, Diane. Moonshine." Moon winked at him. "Thanks fer last night, Drake." He looked at her with a confused face. "Last night?" Moon raised an eyebrow just like Pinkie did and glanced at her before looking back at Drake. "Ya know? Last night? The fireflies and we kissed 'n all?" Drake chuckled and hopped on the couch, nuzzling Moon's cheek, causing her to giggle. "I know, Moon. I'm just messing with you.", he replied playfully. They both gave each other a small kiss on the lips, and Pinkie "d'aww"-ed at the scene. "You two are adorable together, you know?" Moon giggled and Drake chuckled again, holding each others' hooves.

Drake's eyes widened as he glanced at the clock. "Oh crap, I'm gonna be late for work!" Pinkie giggled at this while Moon smiled awkwardly at him, and Drake hopped off the couch again. As he began running out, Moon quickly called him back. "Y'all leavin' me here without a kiss?" With a smile, Drake rolled his eyes, hopped back to give her a nuzzle and kiss and ran off again. A bit after that, Hot Shot came down the stairs, rubbing his eyes. "Mornin' there, Hot!", Moon exclaimed with a very bright smile. "Morning, Moon. What's gotten you in such a cheery mood?" She ruffled the colt's mane and giggled. "Just that yer dad and ah're datin', is all." Just like Drake's eyes before, Hot's eyes widened in the same fashion, showing a clear resemblance to his father. "You're WHAT!?", he replied, knowing what 'dating' meant, seeing how he had his own fillyfriend.

"Y'all ain't happy with that, Hot?" He quickly shook his head. "I'm very happy with that, Moon! That means you'll be a second mom!" Hot's day couldn't be ruined anymore. "Yer mum? Ah dunno, sweetheart... Sher, ah date yer dad, but ta think ah'd be yer mum..." Hot's ears dropped. "What do you mean, Moon? Don't you like me?" She grabbed the colt for a hug. "Hot, 'course ah like ya. But let's not git ahead of ourselves, OK?" Hot nodded and then turned to Pinkie. "Hey, Pinkie? Is Card awake yet?" With a warm smile, she replied. "He's in his room, Hot. You can go to him." Hot smiled back, hopped off the couch and trotted to Card's room.

Moonshine walked out, telling Pinkie she was going for a short flight to get used to her restored wings. Pinkie nodded and waved at Moon as she left. However, what Moon really was going to do was to plan a next date. And one they wouldn't ever forget.

Chapter 11: Can you feel the love tonight?

Chapter 11: Can you feel the love tonight?

The evening fell. Hot Shot already went to bed early after his busy day of playing with his friends from the inn. Moon eagerly sat on the couch, waiting for the stallion she loved most. Pinkie sat across her once more. "What's gotten you so eager, Moon?", she asked her in a playful tone. "Pinkie, ah've found THE spot for a date tonight if Drake's up fer it." The pink mare chuckled. "Trust me, Drake's always up for a date with you." Moon slightly blushed. "Ya think?" With a wink, Pinkie replied. "Of course." After saying this, hoofsteps were heard at the doorstep and a familiar voice spoke "Hey, I'm back!" Moon's ears perked up. She hopped off the couch and ran towards her stallion, leaping for a hug. Drake caught her, spinning her around and laughing before the two shared a kiss.

"Say, sweets, y'all up fer another flight session? Ah promise ah won't fall this time." Pinkie giggled as she left the room, leaving the lovebirds be. "Hmmm...." Drake rubbed his chin playfully. "Sure. Got any place you wanna go to?" Moon nodded. "Just follow me." As she walked out, she slightly swayed her hips, causing Drake to stare at her and blush, completely at a standstill. "Y'all comin'?" Drake gulped and nodded. "Right behind you...", he replied as he followed her outside. Moon slightly blushed and giggled almost soundlessly. "Ah might need that dragon form thingy if ah want y'all ta fly along with me, Hero~" Drake nodded and burst into flames like before, turning into the being he was during the flying session before. Moon flew up and Drake followed her, flying very close to her as if to protect her from eventually falling.

After a while of flying, they arrived at a huge waterfall, bigger than the one from before. The waterfall seemed to be lit up by something, but the light source was unclear. It was almost as if it came from inside the waterfall. It seemed impossible, though. Behind the water was nothing but a solid rock wall. "Ah've found this place while ah wus flyin' about. Y'all like it?" Drake nodded. "I've never seen this place. It's amazing." She smiled at him while they floated in mid-air. "Follow me then. Yer gonna LOVE this!" She flew towards the waterfall. Drake tried stopping her, but she flew through the water. With a confused and worried look, Drake flew closer. The light source seemed brighter at the spot Moon flew towards to. Drake backed away and rushed through the water as well. Tumbling into a cave entrance, Moon couldn't help but laughing at him. "Y'all OK there?" Drake jumped up. "I am, are you!? You're not hurt, are you!?" She rested a hoof on his shoulder and nuzzled him. "Ah'm fine." They both walked deeper into the cave. With Moon up front, Drake wasn't able to resist watching her hips sway from side to side, blushing brightly. Moon did this on purpose, however. She knew how he stared before, so she decided to sway them some more, only not so slightly this time.

At the deepest point of the cave, which was surrounded by small crystals, an enormous crystal rose from the ground, as if it was a beacon. "Ain't this place beautiful, Drake?" He came to a standstill next to Moon. "Yes, it is. But I know one more thing that's even more beautiful." She raised an eyebrow, watching Drake, confused by his words. "Somethin' more beautiful than this? Wut's that?" He glanced back and blushed at her. "You are." A bright blush appeared on Moon's face, and before she could reply, their lips were locked in a deep, passionate kiss. Before the two realized, they were doing the act. Lucky for them, their moaning and yelling got muted by the sound of the crashing water in front of the cave.

Time had passed, and the two were laying next to each other, blushing their hardest and panting, both their eyes wide open. "Did...Did we really just do that, Moon?" She gulped. "Ah-uhm...Ah guess we did. Wus fun, though." She giggled under her panting after saying this, nuzzling Drake's nose. Drake returned the nuzzle. "You OK?" She nodded and slowly got up. "Lit's go home now. Don't want Pinkie or yer son to think somethin' happened to us." Drake stood up as well. "Right, coming." They both flew out of the cave, laughing and blushing. They had grown closer than ever now.

Watching the two descend from the air, with Drake reverting to his regular state, Pinkie giggled and walked to her own room. Once again, she had made a pony happy by her matchmaking skills. And this time, it was one of her best friends.

Chapter 12: The family grows bigger

Chapter 12: The family grows bigger

4 years had passed since that day. Moon had moved in with Drake during this time and was napping on their bed. Drake entered the room, smiling at Moon and closing the door. She opened her eyes, sitting up with a groan. "It's just me, dearie. Lay down~", Drake told her with a playful tone. As she did, Drake hopped on the bed and gave her a kiss. Returning the kiss, Moonshine groaned again. "Having trouble with your back again, love?" She nodded and replied: "Not ta mention the hooves, and let's not ferget, THIS." Putting the emphasis on 'this', she pointed to her belly which was swollen, it being even bigger than her own head. She was almost due, being pregnant over 7.5 months. Drake chuckled and playfully nibbled on her belly fur a little, causing Moon to giggle. She began stroking her belly and Drake rested his hoof on hers, staring her lovingly in the eyes like the husband he was.

"Can you believe it's been 4 years since we met?", he asked her. "Ah know. So hard to believe..." They both sighed happily in sync and Drake continued. "By the way, got you a little something, hun." As he said this, he took a small box, wrapped up like a present. "Happy anniversary, Moon. 3 years ago, I married the loveliest mare alive. And I hope that our marriage will last an eternity." Moon's eyes began filling with tears of joy as she unwrapped the present. Inside the box was a necklace with a pendant identical to Drake's cutie mark. "You like it?" Moon cried in joy. "Ah love it, hun." Drake chuckled again. "Tap the pendant on it." Raising an eyebrow, Moon did exactly that and the pendant changed into a symbol that seemed to resemble a comet. "Hey, that's Hot Shot's cutie mark! Hah'd you do that?", she asked, stunned by such an amazing gift. "Got a little help from a good friend. A certain pink mare." He winked as he stated that remark, causing Moon to giggle once more.

"Sorry ah ain't got you a gift, hun...", Moon said, sounding a little worried and disappointed. "No gift?", Drake replied with a small grin and raised eyebrow. He rubbed her belly softly, continuing. "My gift's just a little late. I'll get it eventually~" Moon slightly blushed at that. "But y'all helped me make it~", she answered him in a same playful tone as him. They nuzzled and slowly their bedroom door opened up. At the doorway, Hot Shot was standing, having grown up quite a bit. He had the attitude any 12 year-old would have, yet it still was adorable on him. He walked to the bed with a smile. "Hey mom. Dad, I didn't know you were back already." Moon suddenly grabbed her belly a little tight, giggling. "Ah think the foal jus' kicked." Both Hot and Drake smiled in a similar fashion and rested their hooves on her belly simultaneously. The two laughed loudly as they felt a pretty hard bump from inside and nuzzled the belly. Moon began stroking both the boys' manes After another bump, Moon blushed brightly and grabbed her belly really tightly and her forehead began sweating.

"H-Hun... Ah think we need ta go to the hospital now..."

Final chapter: The birth of a new Star

Chapter 13: The birth of a new Star

Hours had passed since Moon, Drake, Hot and Pinkie rushed to the hospital. In the waiting room, Hot was pacing around while Pinkie watched him, rolling her eyes and smiling. "Just relax, Hot. Your mom's gonna be just fine, I promise." Hot glanced at Pinkie. "Then why did dad have to go in with her?" Pinkie giggled. "Trust me, when you're older, you'll understand why. For now, you gotta have faith in your parents." Hot sat down, sighing. "I guess so. I just hope Moon's gonna be fine." Hot was clearly worried after hearing Moon scream and curse at Drake. After a while of silence, a nurse came in the room. "Are you relatives of Mrs. Fang?" Hot jumped up at the mention of Moon's 'nickname'. "Is she OK!? And the foal!?" The nurse gave a soft giggle and signaled Pinkie and Hot to follow her. "I'm sure you don't have to worry." As they entered the room, Drake stood next to an exhausted Moon. Something rested in Moon's arms, and both the parents were looking at it, crying tears of joy.

Hot's smile grew wider and wider as he trotted over. In Moon's arms rested a newborn pegasus filly. Her coat had a soft purple tint and her mane was as black as that of her father. The filly slowly opened her eyes, cooing at the sight of her big brother. Drake and Moon both chuckled when they saw Hot bursting into tears as well. Pinkie joined in the waterfall of happiness spreading across the room. "She's so tiny, dad..." As Hot said this, he found his hoof going through the little filly's mane. "She's beautiful, you two. Congratulations.", Pinkie remarked right away. "She's got the looks of her mother", Drake stated in a playful tone. Moon giggled and she dozed off from exhaustion.

"Did the two of you have a name for her?", Pinkie asked. Hot supported this. "Yeah, I mean, my little sis can't go living without a name, right?" Drake chuckled at Hot's comment on the filly. "Well, Moon and I had been discussing that for a long time. We're gonna name her StarFang." Pinkie nodded. "Quite the suiting name, Drake. You've finally let go of the past?" "What's the point of clinging to a past I can't recover when I have a future I can cherish?" Pinkie smiled brightly at that remark. "I can't wait to throw a welcoming party for the little filly. She's soooo cute!" Saying that last sentence, Pinkie's mane poofed up, now looking a lot like the old Pinkie Pie Ponyville knew. Hot looked up at his dad. "Can I hold her?" A nod from Drake followed right away. "Of course you can, son! You know how to?" Hot Shot glanced at Pinkie and nodded. "Pinks taught me how to." Hot decided to drop 'Pinkie' and replace it with 'Pinks', as that would sound cooler.

Now in Hot's arms, Star booped his nose and gave off an adorable giggle, one that any newborn foal would have. They'd never forget this day. Drake had a complete family once more. And this time, he wouldn't let them go.