Princess Celestia is a very well-adjusted mare. Life in Equestria is often as orderly as she is.

Personally, Celestia has had few surprises — oh, there were a few: the unexpected return of her dear sister, Discord's return, the Crystal Empire's, and Tirek's escape. Maybe there were a few others, but most things, she finds, are nice and calculated.

Now, Princess Celestia has a very big surprise, and it all starts with a few cracks in a single egg.

Cover art by SilFoe. Contribute to the TVTropes page! Reading of the old version by Lotus Moon. Recommended by PresentPerfect!