Why would a pony like Derpy Hooves -- good-natured, well meaning, and simple in her ways -- ever dislike such a wonderful season as Hearth's Warming? She has her reasons, and she makes it a point not to think about them. Still, the season gets her down, and the last thing she needs at this time of year is a special delivery for none other than Queen Chrysalis, herself. It might not be the greatest day of her life, but this delivery still might mean more to the mare they all know as "Derpy" than anypony could have imagined. It is a difficult thing to come face-to-face with a creature who truly understands -- and consumes -- hearts, especially at a time of year when one's heart is doing its best to stave off memories of a time not so very long ago.

This is NOT "A Christmas Carol" with Derpy Hooves as Ebenezer Scrooge. That would be inane (and maybe pretty awesome, but still inane.) Instead, it's an examination of love and the nature of the heart, and a look at one of the reasons why some of us just can't help feeling a little out of sorts at a time of year that is supposed to be marked by joy. There are a few laughs here and there, and there might -- just maybe -- be a happy ending. Still, don't come looking for a warm fuzzies dispenser. You won't get it.

A Misadventure of Derpy Hooves.

Or was it Ditzy Doo?

Cover Art by Tarantad0 of deviantart.
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