A Hearth's Warming Miracleby XFangHeartXChaptersCh. 1- Hearth's Warming Eve is Here!Ch. 4- A Miracle Is BornCh. 5- The Morning AfterCh. 2- Snowed InCh. 3- Tempers FlareCh. 1- Hearth's Warming Eve is Here!The snow gently falling from the clouds, the jingling bells, the holly wreathes and tinsil garland, hanging off every window, door, and rooftop, the sweet, sweet smell of gingerbread. All these and more could only mean one thing: Hearth's Warming Eve was here in Ponyville, once again! And right now, everypony was converging to one place: the Castle of Friendship, which was decorated from top to bottom with all kinds of ornaments, courtesy of Rarity, and that was just the outside. Inside the main hall, everypony stared in awe upon seeing the tall Hearth's Warming tree with shiny gold, green, red, and blue bulbs and various other ornaments...but what caught their eye most was the beautiful golden star at the top of the tree. It sparkled brightly, giving off a warm, cozy feeling that made the ponies smile. "Lovely," Rarity smiled as she placed one more gold ornament, neatly even-spaced between a red one on the left and a green right on the right. Of course, the tree wasn't the only thing: there was also the banquet, filled with all kinds of treats, such as cupcakes, cookies, gelatin, apple pies, red velvet cake, muffins, and for drinks, egg nog and cider, as well as fruit punch for the children. Speaking of the children, they were all gathering around Spike and Starlight Glimmer, the latter holding a book with her magic. "Who wants to hear the story of Merry Mare?" asked Starlight, causing all the fillies and colts, including the Cutie Mark Crusaders, to clamor at once in excitement, except for Pipsqueak, who held up his hoof. "Who's Merry Mare?" he asked. "Who's Merry Mare?!" the other children repeated. "Merry Mare is a magical Pegasus pony who brings presents to all the good ponies in Equestria on Hearth's Warming Eve," Starlight answered. "Nopony ever sees her, though," Spike began, "because she only comes when everypony is asleep." "Ooh~!" Pipsqueak exclaimed in fascination. "I tried to stay up to see her, once," Apple Bloom said, "but I was so tired, I just couldn't stay awake, and when I woke up, I saw all these presents under the Hearth's Warming tree!" "Merry Mare only gives presents to ponies that have been good, all year round," Starlight continued, "but does anypony know what she leaves you if you've been naughty." "She leaves you lumps of coal, instead," Diamond Tiara spoke. "Trust me, I know." She blushed while giving an embarrassed chuckle. "Me, too," admitted Silver Spoon, "but Diamond Tiara have been so good, lately, we've been all kinds of presents from Merry Mare!" "And that's very good, indeed," Starlight replied. "So remember, keep being nice to each other, no matter if it's Hearth's Warming or not." "And don't forget to leave a plate of carrots out and a glass of milk," Spike added. "Merry Mare gets hungry while she's making her deliveries!" "How will we know if Merry Mare is around?" asked Pipsqueak. "Easy!" Scootaloo answered. "If you look at the sky and listen very carefully, you can hear the sound of the bells she wears around her neck, jingling as she flies through the air!" "Wow!" Pipsqueak exclaimed. "She sounds amazing!" "Yeah, that's why I can't wait to get home and go to sleep!" Sweetie Belle added. "I hope I get that dolly I wanted, this year!" "I'm getting me a new sled!" Scootaloo spoke up. "And I've been getting my heart set on a new ribbon for my hair!" Apple Bloom chimed in. "What's wrong with the one you have, now?" asked Spike, which prompted Apple Bloom to show him the tattered pink ribbon she had in her hair. "...Oh. Well, I guess you have been wearing it a long time." "Happy Hearth's Warming, everypony!" called Applejack. "Happy Hearth's Warming!!" everypony cheered, laughing happily together, just as it always should be on Hearth's Warming. As the festivities went on, Twilight Sparkle stood at the very top of the stairs with her adopted little sister, Moonlight Essence, watching everypony with warm smiles. "Looks like the party's going well," Twilight said. "Yeah," Moonlight agreed. "Everypony looks like they're having fun." "By the way," Twilight began, "you never actually told me what you wanted for Hearth's Warming this year." "Well...that's because I never really ask for anything on Hearth's Warming," Moonlight answered. "What do you mean?" Twilight inquired. "...Well...back when my family was alive," Moonlight began, "we didn't do anything very big for Hearth's Warming. We would just sit around a fire, sing songs, and tell stories about the holiday...but we never really got presents, mostly because we couldn't afford much." "...I see," Twilight replied. "I guess the Zodiac Nomads weren't very materialistic, huh?" "You could say that, yeah," Moonlight answered. "And honestly, I didn't mind at all! I was just happy to be with my family..." She then trailed off and sighed. "...You still miss them, huh?" asked Twilight, concerned. "Yeah," Moonlight replied before she looked up at her adopted older sister, "but that doesn't mean I'm not happy living with you and Spike and Starlight!" Twilight chuckled as she nuzzled the unicorn filly, lovingly. However, while the warm feelings were going around...one pony wasn't really getting into the festivities, namely a certain handicapped unicorn who almost brought ruin to Equestria about a month back. That unicorn was none other than Fizzlepop Berrytwist...or, preferably, Tempest Shadow, who was sitting apart from the other partygoers with a mug of cider...which had barely been touched. "Yo!" Tempest yelped slightly before she turned to see Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. "Oh...hi," Tempest said. "Some party, huh?" asked Rainbow Dash. "Yeah...I suppose," Tempest replied, although she made no eye contact, whatsoever. "Are you okay?" asked Pinkie. "How come you're just sitting, all by yourself?" "I...I just wanna be alone for a bit, that's all," Tempest answered. "Psh!" Rainbow Dash scoffed. "Well, that's no fun. Have a drink, dance with somepony! Just let loose!" "Yeah! It's Hearth's Warming Eve!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Yeah...I know," Tempest answered before she sighed. "I know I should be happy...but...it's not exactly easy for me." "Why?" Pinkie asked. "Um...pardon me?" Rainbow Dash and Pinkie turned to see one of Tempest's old friends, Cobalt Star. "Mind if I sit with Fizz- err, I mean...Tempest alone?" asked Cobalt. "Sure," answered Rainbow Dash. "C'mon, Pinkie! Let's grab some more cider!" "Yippee!!" Pinkie cheered as she followed the cyan Pegasus, while Cobalt came and sat with Tempest. "Everything okay?" asked the stallion. "...I remember when I used to love celebrating Hearth's Warming with everypony," Tempest said, "but...now it's hard for me, because-" "I know," answered Cobalt. "...It was around Hearth's Warming when you had your accident." "...Yeah..." Tempest whispered, solemnly with a deep sigh. "I don't understand...I should be over this by now." "Hey, I get it," Cobalt said as he put a foreleg around her shoulder. "These things are hard to get through...but at least you're trying, right?" "...That's true," Tempest answered. "I am trying...I just feel like I'm not trying hard enough." She then looked out the window to the falling snow. "The only reason I'm at this party right now is because Princess Twilight invited me...I felt it was the least I could do, after everything she did for me." "I think that's a step in the right direction, don't you?" asked Cobalt. "I guess it is," Tempest answered. "By the way, where's Crystal?" "Over there," Cobalt replied as he pointed to his wife, Crystal Cascade, who was lying on a sofa with a tired look on her face while Fluttershy sat next to her in an attempt to keep her company. The unicorn's belly seemed to have gotten a little bit bigger since Tempest last saw her, indicating that she was nearing the end of her pregnancy. In fact, if she didn't know better, Tempest could see some slight movement going on, and it seemed to make Crystal wince a bit at the strange feeling. "I wanted her to go to the hospital, just in case something happened," said Cobalt, "but no, she insisted on coming to the party with me. Said she hadn't missed a Hearth's Warming party, yet, and she's not starting now." Tempest chuckled. "I see she's just as stubborn as ever," she quipped. "That's my Crystal," Cobalt mused, causing them both to laugh. "How are you doing?" Fluttershy asked. "Oh, I'm fine," answered Crystal. "Thank you for asking...just very tired, right now." "You must be very excited to be a mother," said Fluttershy. "It's been a journey," Crystal replied. "Not a fun one, I might add." She then looked at her belly. "I'll tell you one thing, carrying around this little one hasn't been easy...but I know it'll be worth it." "Have you found out if it's going to be a filly or a colt, yet?" asked Fluttershy. "Honestly, we want it to be a surprise," answered Crystal. "I see," Fluttershy nodded. "Yeah, that's how my Mom did it when she had me," said Crystal. "I guess I just like to do it the family way, you know?" Fluttershy giggled at that. "You have your reasons, I suppose," she said before she looked out a nearby window to see the snow...which was falling quite fast. "It really is snowing, out there." "Yes, it is," Rarity agreed as she looked out the window. "I hope it doesn't snow too much." "Ah, relax," Rainbow Dash said. "What's a little snow done to anypony?" "Well...perhaps," Rarity replied. "It's just that Sweetie Belle and I have to get home, soon." "So do I," Fluttershy added. "I have to check on my animals." "Who wants apple pie?" Applejack asked. "...Well...I am a bit hungry," Fluttershy said. "Do you want anything, darling?" asked Rarity. "No thank you," answered Crystal. "For some reason, I'm not as hungry like I was before." "Well, if you're sure," said Fluttershy before she went to join her friends to eat while Crystal sighed and continued to rest. However, with everypony busy celebrating...they had no idea that the snow was beginning to pile up, outside. Author's Note My Hearth's Warming story. I decided to just go ahead and get this outta the way. It'll probably be finished by New Year's, but that's fine. Hope you guys enjoy! Ch. 4- A Miracle Is Born"Moonlight?" Twilight called as she entered the bedroom, and she could see a grayish blue and purple tail sticking out from underneath the bed. "Moonlight, come out." "No..." Moonlight's voice whimpered from under the mattress, causing Twilight to approach her. "Moonlight, please come out of there," the purple alicorn pleaded. "Please?" All she got in response was a sniffle as Moonlight turned to face her, revealing her tearful eyes. "You...you said that Hearth's Warming is supposed to be a happy time," the filly said, "but everypony's arguing with each other!" "Oh, Moonlight," Twilight said as she gently pulled her adopted younger sister into a hug, while Moonlight sobbed in her chest. "I'm so sorry." Unbeknownst to the two, Tempest stood behind Twilight as she tried to console Moonlight. The handicapped unicorn's expression softened with sadness and guilt, but then it quickly turned into one of anger as she turned to where the castle drawing room was, so much so, her broken horn momentarily flared up before she turned and walked away, heading back to the gathering place. There, she could still everypony yelling and fighting with each other, and Starlight and Spike trying to keep their hardest to keep the peace. It was more than she could take, so she took in a deep breath and then yelled out at the top of her voice. "EVERYPONY, BE QUIET!!!!" Hearing that shout caused everypony in the room to look up at Tempest, who came down the stares with a cold glare in her eyes...almost as if she had regressed back to when she invaded Canterlot with the Storm King's army. "Listen to you fools!!" she shouted. "Arguing like a bunch of children!! I get it...you don't wanna cooped up in here, but as long as that snow has piled up outside, then we can't go anywhere until morning!" She then pointed her hoof upstairs. "I just went up and saw two sisters who planned this party in order to have fun with their friends, but instead, they're up there, lamenting that nopony is having a good time, and you arguing is making it worse!!" Upon hearing that, everypony seemed to take on faces of guilt and remorse. Some were even murmuring to themselves about the Sparkle Sisters being upset. "Apple Bloom," Tempest said as she approached the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "I know you're upset because you wanna go home and get your presents from Merry Mare...but being mean and ornery isn't going to help your chances. You made poor Moonlight cry because of what you said." "...I did, didn't I?" Apple Bloom asked, sadly. "I...I guess I really was upset...but I didn't mean to get so...well, mean." "I guess we all got a little carried away," Scootaloo added. "Yeah," Sweetie Belle agreed. "I think when Moonlight comes out of there," Tempest began, "you should apologize to her, immediately." "We will," the Cutie Mark Crusaders smiled, which caused Tempest to nod in approval before she moved on to Rainbow Dash. "Look," Tempest began, "I know how some Pegasus can be. They wanna stretch their wings and fly freely...but right now, you just have to tough it out and wait." "...Yeah, you're right," Rainbow Dash concurred. "Man, I acted like a such a dunderhead." "It happens to the best of us," Tempest assured. "Next time, try to take it easy, though." "Thanks, Tempest," Rainbow Dash said as she did a hoof bump with the unicorn, who chuckled before she went up to Fluttershy and Rarity next. "Rarity," Tempest continued, "I know it's not the best-looking sweater...but Fluttershy took the time to make it for you. She did it because she wanted to make you happy. Isn't it the thought that counts?" "...That's true," Rarity said, guiltily as she looked at the awful sweater, then looked at Fluttershy. "Oh, Fluttershy, I'm so sorry! I know you were just doing your best and...I should've been more grateful." "It's all right, Rarity," Fluttershy smiled. "I forgive you." She then looked down at the sweater before she tried to stifle a snicker. "Actually...now that I look at it again, it really is awful, isn't it?" "Pfft...!" Rarity snickered. "Yes, yes it is!" Soon the two friends laughed, causing Tempest to smile, too. "...Maybe...you could give me knitting lessons?" asked Fluttershy. "Well, of course, darling!" Rarity replied. "In fact, consider that my Hearth's Warming gift to you." "I look forward to it," Fluttershy smiled. "And as for you, Cobalt," said Tempest as she approached her two old friends, "I understand that you just want Crystal to have the baby safely...but don't hover over her so much. Let her breathe, too. She's not helpless." "...You're right," Cobalt said with a sigh before he looked at Crystal. "I'm so sorry, Crystal." "Well...I know you meant well," said Crystal. "I'm sorry I yelled at you." "No, no, don't be sorry," said Cobalt. "I mean...it was mostly your hormones talking, right?" "I suppose so," Crystal replied with a chuckle. "Still...it's good to see you care." She then gave her husband a kiss on his cheek, causing him to smile and blush. "Awww~!" everypony around them cooed. "You see?" Tempest asked. "Hearth's Warming is about being together and being happy. That's what really counts." "She's right," said Applejack. "Isn't that why we came to this party in the first place?" Pinkie asked. "To be together." "That is why we came here," said Lyra. "We just weren't expecting to be snowed in, that's all," said Cherry Berry. "We feel really awful," said Derpy Hooves. "As long as you all know that and are willing to make things better," Tempest began, "not just for Princess Twilight and her sister, but all of us, too, then that's all I need to hear. So what do you say? Can we all just...enjoy the holiday?" Soon, the room began to burst into cheers of agreement, which was enough to cause Twilight and Moonlight to come out of their room. "What's going on?" Twilight asked. "Nothing," Starlight replied. "Everything's been taken care of, now...thanks to Tempest." Tempest looked up and smiled at Twilight, who blinked in surprise before she smiled in return, and even Moonlight smiled as she and her adopted older sister came down the stairs. Soon after, Apple Bloom walked up to the filly, along with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. "Hey, Moonlight," said Apple Bloom. "I just wanna say that...I'm really sorry for calling your cards stupid." "It's okay, Apple Bloom," Moonlight smiled. "I know you were just upset." "But that's no excuse for me to be mean," said Apple Bloom. "Yeah, that's no excuse for anypony to be mean," Scootaloo added. "Here-here!" Sweetie Belle agreed. Moonlight smiled before she went up and hugged Apple Bloom, who returned her embrace, and soon after, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and the other fillies and colts joined in on the group hug, to the older ponies adoration. "I'm glad everything's settled, now," Twilight said. "Thank you, Tempest." "Well...I just thought I'd return the favor, that's all," Tempest smiled. "Come on, everypony!" Spike called. "Let's get some cider!" "Yeah!!" everypony cheered...but just then... "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!!" Crystal let out a scream so loud, it would've been broken the windows...and maybe even the castle, itself. "Crystal?!" Cobalt questioned. "Crystal, what is it?!" asked Tempest. "Rrrgh...!" Crystal groaned as she held her belly. "It's...it's time!!" "You mean...?!" Cobalt gasped. "The baby's coming!!" cried Crystal. "Now?!" Tempest questioned while everypony gaped. "W-w-what do we do?!" asked Spike. "I don't know!!" answered Twilight. "Oh, man, this is SO not cool!!" exclaimed Rainbow Dash. Soon, the whole room began to panic...except for Applejack, who pushed her way passed the crowd with a determined expression as she approached Crystal. "Simmer down, everypony!" she called out, causing all the guests to look at her. "Now let's not get our dander up! I know just what to do!" "You?" Crystal asked. "You know about childbirth?" "Sure as shootin', sugarcube," Applejack assured. "Why, I helped Granny Smith deliver babies almost a dozen times, now!" "W-what should we do?" asked Cobalt. "First off, Crystal," Applejack began, "just breathe for right now." "Right," Crystal replied before she take in deep breaths. "Second, she needs a place to lie down," Applejack started. "Can you make it to a bed?" "I...I think so," Crystal replied as she tried to walk to one of the guest rooms, but the pain made her stop in her tracks. "No! I can't do it!" "Oh! We should get some cushions and pile them around on the floor!" Twilight suggested. "I'm on it!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed before she looked to some of her Pegasus friends. "Come on, you guys! Let's move it!" "Right, Rainbow Dash!!" the Pegasi exclaimed as they began to fly off and gather cushions for Crystal to lie on. Once they had gathered enough, Twilight arranged them so they'd be nice and comfortable and that they wouldn't shift when Crystal lied on them. The mint green unicorn whimpered as Cobalt gently eased his wife onto cushions, then lied down beside her. "Shh..." he whispered in a soothing voice. "It's okay, Crystal Cascade. Everything's gonna be fine." "Oh, Cobalt," Crystal whispered. Soon, Spike arrived with a blanket, which he put over the laboring mother. Then, Applejack, after she washed her hooves, soon sat before Crystal while everypony else gathered around, but making sure not to get too close. After about an hour or so, Crystal began screaming as the contractions started getting frequent. Applejack kept shouting "Push", over and over, and then told Crystal to stop once the contractions subsided, temporarily. Soon, an hour became two hours, then three, then four, and the whole time, everypony watched in awe...and some were a bit disgusted, but there was mostly awe. "I can't believe we're actually watching a baby pony being born...!" Pinkie whispered. "Yeah...!" Rainbow Dash agreed. "It's...actually pretty cool!" "Shh~!" Twilight shushed. "Quiet." "Oh, right," Rainbow Dash whispered. "My bad." "How come nothing's happened, yet?" asked Sweetie Belle, softly. "Giving birth to babies takes time, Sweetie Belle," Rarity answered. "Sure looks like it hurts," Spike added with a wince. "Oh, that's so profound of you," Starlight whispered, sarcastically. "Well, excuse me," Spike replied. "Starlight, Spike, no arguing," Twilight chided. "Sorry," Spike and Starlight whispered sheepishly. "Is she gonna be okay?" asked Moonlight. "Sure she will," Apple Bloom answered. "Applejack's done this lots of times." "If you say so," Scootaloo whispered. "I'm going to put my trust in her," Tempest added. Just then, Crystal's screams stopped...but another soon followed, only this one sounded smaller. Soon, Applejack held up a tiny newborn foal with a light green coal and a dark blue mane and tail. "Aww..." Applejack cooed. "It's a beautiful little filly." "Awwww...!" everypony swooned. "Here Applejack," Fluttershy said...holding up the sweater she made for Rarity. "You can use this to wrap her up in." "Are you sure about that, Fluttershy?" Rarity asked. "I'm sure," Fluttershy said. "I think she needs this more." Applejack took the sweater and wrapped the newborn filly up in it, then hoofed her over to Crystal, who happily took her into her forelegs while tears fell from her eyes, while Cobalt sniffled and nuzzled his wife. "She's perfect...!" Crystal whispered as she kissed the filly's cheek. "Our little daughter...!" Cobalt added, while Tempest quietly approached. "Hi," she whispered softly, causing the filly to coo, softly. "I'm your godmare." Soon, the other ponies began to gather around to get a look. "Aww, isn't she cute?" asked Rainbow Dash. "She's so tiny...!" Apple Bloom whispered. "Congratulations, both of you," said Fluttershy. "What are you gonna name her?" asked Twilight. "...You know...I don't think we ever thought of names, yet," Crystal realized. "What do you think she should be called?" asked Cobalt. "...I think it should be something unique," said Tempest. "I think her name should have some meaning." "Well...we were all arguing, before," Starlight said. "Yeah," Spike agreed, "but then Tempest got everypony to calm down...and then the baby was born." "And on such a cold, snowy night, too," Fluttershy agreed. "And now, we're all here together," Rarity began, "to witness this little miracle." "...That's it...!" Crystal said as she looked to her baby. "I know what to call our baby: Miracle Star." "I think it sounds perfect," Tempest said. "Me, too," Twilight agreed. "Welcome to the world, Miracle Star." The newly christened Miracle Star yawned as she nestled in her mother's embrace. Soon after, everypony else began to follow suit, curling up around each other to stave off the cold while the snow fell outside. As everypony began to cast into slumber, Moonlight looked up at Twilight, who covered her and Spike with a wing. "This is the best Hearth's Warming Eve I've ever had," she whispered. "Thanks, Twilight." "Don't thank me," Twilight whispered as she looked to Tempest, who smiled at her. "You're right," Moonlight said. "Thanks, Tempest." "No problem," Tempest whispered. "Happy Hearth's Warming." "Happy Hearth's Warming," whispered Twilight as she began to fall asleep, as well. However, if one would listen closely...they could've heard the sound of bells jingling in the sky. Author's Note I always wanted to do a baby pony birth scene...and now I did! Ch. 5- The Morning AfterMorning came, and with it brought Hearth's Warming Day. At the Castle of Friendship, everypony was still asleep, even as the sun rose slightly over the snowy hills. It wasn't a surprise, really, considering the fact that everypony had witnessed the birth of little Miracle Star, and the excitement had left them exhausted. However, their slumber was soon interrupted when they heard a loud scream of delight coming from Apple Bloom. "Everypony, wake up!!" she called out. "Wake up and look at what's under the tree!!" "Ugh..." Applejack groaned as she raised her head. "Apple Bloom, quiet down, will- huh?!" To everypony's surprise...there were even more presents under the tree than there were last night! "W-where did all these presents come from?!" asked Twilight. "Merry Mare!" exclaimed Sweetie Belle. "She must have come and visited us last night!" "Yeah, look!" Scootaloo added as she held up an empty plate. "The carrots we left for her are gone!" "She DOES exist!" Pipsqueak cheered. "So, what do we do now?" asked Moonlight. "What do you think?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Everypony grab a present!" Soon, everypony in the room did just that, hurrying to open all the presents they had gotten. As they did, Apple Bloom looked over at Moonlight before she handed her a present. "Here, Moonlight," she said. "You got somethin' from Merry Mare, too." Moonlight opened her present and gasped happily upon seeing it was a set of new paintbrushes. "Wow!" she exclaimed. "Just what I wanted! How did she even know?!" "She's kinda mysterious, that way," Scootaloo replied, holding some new ice skates and a hockey stick. "Yeah," Sweetie Belle agreed, holding a new Princess Pony doll. "We just say thank you for the presents and leave it at that." "Hey, everypony!" Rainbow Dash called as she opened the door, revealing that the snow was now at least at 5 inches. "We can all go home, now!" Upon hearing that, everypony in the room cheered before they began to head out the door. As they left, Twilight, Spike, Starlight, and Moonlight went to see their guests off as they headed out into the snow. "Goodbye, everypony!" Twilight called. "Thanks for coming!" "See you later!" Moonlight added. "Get home safely!" Spike exclaimed. "Be careful!" Starlight chimed in. "Thank you so much for inviting us, Princess Twilight," said Crystal while she held baby Miracle Star in her foreleg and Cobalt stood beside her. "I know the party could've gone a bit better, though." "Oh, it's no problem," Twilight replied. "You know," Rarity started, wearing a glittery light blue scarf to match her eyes, "I actually wouldn't mind getting snowed in like that, again." "Actually, I wouldn't mind it either," Fluttershy agreed, wearing a lime green scarf around her neck. "I hope we do it again for Hearth's Warming, next year." "Really?" Starlight asked. "Well, as long as nopony fights again," said Applejack. "And even if you do," Tempest began, "you all know who will be there to straighten things out." "Yep, and that's you!" Pinkie added before she gasped. "Ooh! I gotta hurry and get home! I still have to send my Hearth's Warming cards to my parents, Maud, Limestone, and Marble at the rock farm!" With that, she soon hopped away. "Thank you for setting everypony down last night, Tempest," Twilight said. "It's the least I could do," Tempest replied. "After all, you went through all this trouble, just to bring everypony together, and I know you hated to see them arguing. Think of it as returning the favor." All four unicorns, plus Spike, laughed at this. "See you later, Tempest," Starlight said. "Hope you get home, safely." "I'll manage," said Tempest as she left with Crystal, Cobalt, and Miracle. "See you next Hearth's Warming!" "See you next Hearth's Warming!" called Twilight. "Bye-bye, Tempest!" Moonlight waved. "Oh, and Mr. and Mrs. Cascade! And Miracle Star!" "Well, Twilight," Spike started, "another happy Hearth's Warming!" "Yeah," Twilight agreed. "And I bet next year will be even better." As everypony headed home for the holiday, up in the sky, a Pegasus mare sat on a cloud, watching them with a content smile on her face. She had a mint green coat and a white mane and tail that had a few gray streaks, she wore a red cape that had two jingle bells attached to the front, and on her flank was a cutie mark with two jingle bells and holly leaves. She chuckled before she looked out behind her, revealing her dark blue eyes, before she gave a wink, then flapped her wings and flew away, making her bells jingle with each flap. THE END Author's Note And that, my friends, is the end! Hope you guys enjoyed it! I know it's not my best, but I hope to improve. Ch. 2- Snowed In"Aaaahhh..." Rainbow Dash sighed with her hooves over her slightly distended stomach. "Now THAT was good eatin'." "You're telling me," Pinkie agreed, her belly also bloated as she leaned against the Pegasus' back before she gave a burp. "Oops! Scuse me!" "Haha!" Rainbow Dash. "Good one." "Amazing food, as always, Applejack," Fluttershy complimented. "Much obliged," Applejack answered as she looked to the empty table...well, not completely empty, since there were dirty plates and platters all over. "Although next time, I better remember to bring more food, just in case." "Applejack!" Apple Bloom called. "Don't you think it's time we went home, already?!" "Yeah, I wanna get home in time for Merry Mare to bring me my presents!" exclaimed Scootaloo. "Me, too!" Sweetie Belle added. "I think it is about time we got going," said Rarity before she looked to Twilight. "Thank you so much for the party, Twilight." "Of course," Twilight replied. "It was my pleasure." "Thank you for inviting me, too," said Tempest. "I really appreciate it." "No problem, Tempest," said Twilight. "Come on, Crystal," said Cobalt as he approached his wife. "Time to get to station if we wanna make it home for Hearth's Warming Day tomorrow." "Right, I'm coming," Crystal said as she got off the couch and prepared to walk out the door with everypony else. "Have a safe trip home, everypony!" Twilight called. "Happy Hearth's Warming!" "Happy Hearth's Warming, Twilight!" Pinkie replied. "Happy Hearth's Warming to you, too, Moonlight!" Rarity added. "And you, too, Spike!" "You, too, Rarity!" Spike waved. "Happy Hearth's Warming!" Moonlight piped up. "And you, Starlight!" Fluttershy chimed in. "Happy Hearth's Warming, everypony!" Starlight called. However, as Rarity went to open the door...for some reason, it wouldn't budge. "Well, that's odd," said Rarity. "The door seems to be stuck." "Stuck?" Sweetie Belle asked, worriedly. "W-what do you mean, stuck?" "Now simmer down," Applejack said. "Probably just needs a good kick, that's all." She then reared up on her forelegs and gave a powerful kick to the door...but it wouldn't budge. "Huh? Well, what in tarnation is goin' on?" "How come the door won't open?!" asked Apple Bloom. "...I think I know why," Tempest answered as she looked out the window, prompting everypony else to look outside as well...and when they did, they gasped upon seeing at least 6 feet of snow, blocking the door! "We're snowed in?!" Rainbow Dash questioned. "Oh, dear!" Fluttershy exclaimed, worriedly. "Snowed in?!" Scootaloo repeated in alarm. "B-but we can't be snowed in!! I gotta get home, right now!! What if Merry Mare delivers my Hearth's Warming presents, and I'm not there to get them?!!" "Me, too!" Apple Bloom cried. "There's no way she knows that I'm here!!" "How are we gonna get outta here?!" asked Sweetie Belle. "Nopony panic!" Starlight answered. "I'm sure we can find a way out of the snow!" "But how?" Moonlight asked. "Maybe I can melt it!" Spike suggested. "Spike, there's way too much snow for just one little dragon to melt," said Twilight. "I mean, not that I doubt you, it's just I don't want you to exhaust your fire." "Well, what are we gonna do?" asked Moonlight, worriedly. "Maybe I can try and call somepony," Twilight suggested as she headed to the library. "Don't you worry, Crystal," Cobalt said to his wife. "I'm sure Princess Twilight will find a way to get us out of here and get you home to Canterlot." "I'm not really all that worried," Crystal assured. "I think you're the one who's worried." "Me, worried?" asked Cobalt with a scoff. "Of course not! Not one bit worried!" "Ahem!" Tempest cleared her throat. "Cobalt. Your legs are shaking." The unicorn stallion glanced down at his legs, which were trembling uncontrollably. "...Okay, maybe I'm a tiny bit nervous," he said with a sheepish chuckle, which caused Tempest and Crystal to chuckle, as well. "I have an idea!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Let's exchange some gifts while we wait!" "That sounds fun!" Scootaloo replied. "Yeah!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as the ponies went to get their gifts. "Ooh!" Rarity chirped in delight as she picked up a box wrapped up in purple wrapping paper and a pretty, pinky ribbon. "What's in here, I wonder!" "Just something from me," Fluttershy replied. "I hope you like it, Rarity." "Oh, Fluttershy, you shouldn't have!" Rarity said as she tore off the paper and opened the box...only for a look of shock and perhaps disgust to appear on her face. "Well?" Fluttershy asked. "What...is this?" asked Rarity in bewilderment as she pulled out what looked like some sort of cloth with multiple sleeves and stitches missing, here and there. "It's a sweater," Fluttershy replied. "I knitted it, myself, just for you. What do you think?" "Umm..." Rarity muttered. "Well...for one thing, it seems to have more than two sleeves...and it doesn't have a neck hole." "It was my first time," Fluttershy said. "Do you like it, though?" Rarity bit her lip as she looked away. "Well...it's nice," she said. "So you like it, then!" Fluttershy exclaimed, excitedly. "I'm so glad you do!" "...Yes," Rarity replied with a forced grin. "Of course I do." Truth be told, the ivory unicorn couldn't STAND looking at this fashion abomination that Fluttershy dared to call a "sweater"...but seeing as how the yellow Pegasus worked so hard to make it and seeing how happy she was when she gave it to her...Rarity just couldn't bring herself to tell her most sensitive friend how she really felt about it. She always hated it when Fluttershy's feelings got hurt. In fact, she hated it when any of hers got their feelings hurt...especially by her. 'I hope we find some way out of this,' Rarity thought. 'Then I can go home and get rid of this hideous thing for good and tell Fluttershy I lost it! Then my conscious will be clear!' "Tempest!" Twilight called out, suddenly, causing the handicapped unicorn to turn to her. "Can you help me, real quick?" "Sure," Tempest answered as she followed her. "What do you need?" "You know that spell you used to talk to...well...you-know-who?" Twilight asked, which caused Tempest to tense up, slightly. "Well...yes," she said, shaking off her momentary unease. "Why?" XXX Twilight stood before a bowl filled with some sort of potion, while Tempest held a bottle of some kind, which she poured into the bowl. Not long after, there was a poof of smoke, which slightly rose into the air, and there was the sound of static following it. "Hello?" asked Twilight. "Hello, Shining Armor? Cadence?" "H--llo?" asked a voice amongst the static, and though it sounded garbled, Twilight instantly knew it was her brother. "Shining Armor, it's Twilight!" Twilight called. "Can you hear me? Hello?!" "H----o?" Shining Armor asked. "Tw-li--t? He--o?" Unfortunately, the smoke disappeared, and Shining Armor's voice soon disappeared along with it. "What happened?!" Twilight asked in disbelief. "I'm afraid the spell's not perfect," Tempest said. "Plus, with the weather being the way it is, it's hard to get any reception." "I was hoping Shining Armor or maybe Princess Celestia could help us," Twilight said in disappointment. "Twilight, I hate to say this," Tempest began, "but...I'm afraid we'll just have to grit our teeth and bear it. We'll just have to wait it out until morning, when the snow melts enough for everypony to go home." "...I just hope everypony else can hold out until then," said Twilight. "...If it makes you feel better," Tempest began, "I'm glad I'm here at the castle, with you." "You are?" Twilight asked, feeling her spirits lift. "Of course," Tempest replied. "I mean...first off, you saved my life, and second, you helped me to reconcile with my two foalhood friends. Honestly...I can't imagine a better Hearth's Warming." Hearing that caused Twilight to smile, warmly. "That means a lot, Tempest," she said. "Thank you." "Of course," Tempest nodded. "Twilight!" Moonlight called as she walked in. "We're about to make Hearth's Warming cards! Wanna come and make some with me?" "...I'd like that," Twilight answered as she followed her adopted little sister out, and Tempest soon went to join them. However, as she did, she looked back out the window as the snow continued to fall with a slightly worried look in her eyes. "Why do I have this sneaking suspicion that things aren't going to as smoothly as I think?" she asked before she sighed. "Maybe it's nothing." However, she had no idea how right she was going to be, very soon. Author's Note Here's Chapter 2! Not much, I know, but it's the best I could do for today. Happy Hearth's Warming (or Merry Christmas)! Ch. 3- Tempers FlareInside the main hall, Starlight had gathered up the fillies and colts to make Hearth's Warming cards, just to take their minds off things. Even Spike joined in on the fun. "Hey, Spike, look," Moonlight said as she held her card up, showing a picture of herself, Twilight, Starlight, and Spike, all of them surrounding a glittering tree, and beneath them were the words "Happy Hearth's Warming". "I made it for all of us." "Aww," Spike and Starlight cooed, fondly. "That's so sweet, Moonlight," Starlight said. "Yeah, thanks!" Spike exclaimed as he took it. "I'm gonna show it to Twilight!" "I also made one each for Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash," Moonlight said as she pointed to a nearby pile of cards. "Oh! And I made some for the Cutie Mark Crusaders, too!" "Thanks..." muttered Applejack, unenthusiastically. "What's the matter?" Moonlight asked. "Don't you like the card?" "It's not the card," Scootaloo answered. "We're mad because Merry Mare's gonna drop off our presents at our homes, and we're not even there to get them!" "Well, look on the bright side," said Moonlight. "We're all here, and we're all safe, right?" "Yeah," Spike agreed. "Better us be in here, where it's nice and warm than out in the cold night air." He then shivered, hugging himself for emphasis, which caused Moonlight and Starlight to giggle. However, the Cutie Mark Crusaders still didn't seem very enthusiastic. As for Crystal, she was sitting down with some other ponies, Tempest included. At that moment, Cobalt appeared, carrying a scarf using his magic, which he then used to put around Crystal's neck. "There you go," he said. "Don't want you getting too cold, sweetheart." "Coby, that's very nice," Crystal began as she pulled off the scarf, "but I don't need a scarf. I'm plenty warm as it is." "Oh, really?" Cobalt asked. "Well, if you're sure, okay." He then turned and walked away...only to come back not 5 seconds later. "You're not having any contractions, are you?" "Cobalt, I'm trying to have a conversation," Crystal replied. "I'll let you know if something happens, understand?" "Yes, dear," Cobalt replied before he turned to leave again. "Sorry, dear." "A bit of a worrywart, isn't he?" asked Tempest. "He means well," said Crystal. "He's just worried about me since I'm due to have the baby any time, now." She then made a slightly pained grunt as she put a hoof to her belly. "You okay?" Tempest asked. "Oh, I'm fine," Crystal replied. "Just fine. The baby's just been kicking really hard, lately, that's all." "Are you sure?" Tempest inquired in concern. "Yes, Fizzlepop," said Crystal. "Seriously, you worry about as much as Cobalt does." "...Maybe you're right," said Tempest. "Maybe I am worrying too much." That's when Cobalt appeared next to Crystal, again, holding a pillow in his mouth. "Maybe you should sit down somewhere soft," he suggested, causing Crystal to groan. "...Or not." Concurrently, Rainbow Dash whimpered as she paced back and forth, anxiously as she looked outside and only saw the snow piling up outside. This only caused her to groan as she continued her pacing, only to bump into Pinkie Pie. "Oof!!" they both grunted as their craniums collided. "What's up with you, Rainbow Dash?" Pinkie asked, rubbing her hoof against her skull. "I REALLY don't like being cooped up in here too long, Pinkie," Rainbow Dash replied. "I gotta stretch my wings, y'know?! I think I'm goin' crazy, bein' in here! You gotta help me!" "Oh, well that's easy," said Pinkie. "Just don't think about it!" "Right," Rainbow Dash nodded. "Don't think about it." She then closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. "...Hey! I think it worked! I'm not thinking about it!" "See? I got your back!" Pinkie said as she hopped away. "Just don't think about it, too much, Rainbow Dash," Rainbow Dash told herself. "Just don't think about it, and everything will be fine." A pause...but then the Pegasus began to furrow her brow as sweat began to form on her face. "...This is getting to be harder than I thought," she muttered before she walked off. "I better go find something to do. That'll take my mind off things." She then looked over to Spike, Starlight, and the foals, who were still making cards. "That's it!" she exclaimed before she went over to them. "Hey, mind if I join you guys?" "Sure, you can join us," Starlight answered. "I didn't know you liked making cards, Rainbow Dash," Scootaloo said. "Uh...call it a secret hobby of mine," Rainbow Dash answered, sheepishly. XXX In the kitchen, Rarity looked around, almost nervously, even turning around with a slight yelp, as if she thought that somepony might've been following her. Once she was certain that she was alone, she heaved a sigh as she walked up to the kitchen trash can and then used her magic to hold up the so-called sweater that Fluttershy had made her. She glared at it with great disdain before she opened the lid and prepared to drop the fabric into the can, when all of a sudden... "Rarity...?!" "EEK!!" Rarity shrieked as she turned to see Applejack and Fluttershy, the latter gaping as she saw what Rarity was about to do. "W-what are you doing?" asked Fluttershy. "Is that the sweater I made you?!" "N-no!" Rarity answered. "I-I mean, yes...I mean-" "What in tarnation are ya doin', girl?!" Applejack asked. "Rarity," Fluttershy said, sadly, "do...do you not like my present?" Rarity bit her lip as she looked at the sweater, then at Fluttershy, who blinked sadly at her, but the unicorn only sighed. "All right, fine!" she exclaimed. "I admit it! I hate this hideous thing! I mean...look at it! How can you even call this a sweater?! How am I even supposed to put it on?!" "It's called making an effort!" Fluttershy argued. "I can't believe how ungrateful you're being!" "I know you can be uppity sometimes, Rarity," Applejack began, "but this really tears it!!" "But Applejack, look at it!" Rarity exclaimed. "How can anypony call this raggedy thing a sweater?!" "Hmph!" Fluttershy scoffed before she turned and walked out. "Yeah, what she said!" Applejack agreed before she turned and followed after the yellow Pegasus, while Rarity went after them. "Now wait a minute!" Rarity called. "Can't we be reasonable about this?!" "I can't talk to you right now, Rarity," Fluttershy replied. "In fact, I can't even look at you!" "And I don't blame her!" Applejack added. "What's going on?" Twilight asked as she walked up to them. "Is everything okay?" Before she realized it, Rarity and Fluttershy both began to talk at once, so much so that Twilight couldn't comprehend what they were saying. "Hold it!!" Applejack shouted as she pushed the two of them apart. "Phew! Okay, Twi...what Rarity and Fluttershy are trying to say is that Fluttershy made Rarity this...sweater as a Hearth's Warming gift." "Aww, that's nice!" Twilight smiled. "I'd agree with you, Twilight," said Rarity, "except..." She then showed Twilight the article of clothing, and needless to say, the purple alicorn did grimace slightly upon seeing it. "You see?!" "Well...it's true that it doesn't really look like a sweater," Twilight began before she noticed Fluttershy's hurt and angry expression, "but...Fluttershy put a lot of effort into it, Rarity." "Well...I-I know, it's just-" Rarity started. "HEY!!" Twilight turned to see Apple Bloom glaring at Rainbow Dash, who held up an empty jar. "You got glitter all over my card!!" the yellow earth pony filly shouted as she held up a card that was completely buried in purple glitter. "I did not!" Rainbow Dash argued. "Rainbow Dash, you did open that jar pretty fast," Spike pointed out. "Maybe if you just stopped acting so antsy-" "Antsy?!" Rainbow Dash questioned. "I'm not antsy! You're the one who's antsy!!" "No, I'm not!" Spike argued. "Hey!" Scootaloo shouted at Sweetie Belle. "I was using the glue! Give it back!" "No you weren't!" Sweetie Belle countered. "Umm...guys?" Moonlight asked, worriedly. "Wait a minute!" Starlight called as all the children and even Rainbow Dash and Spike began to argue. "H-hold on! Everypony calm down! Rainbow, Spike, cut it out!! Scootaloo, settle down! Sweetie Belle, no biting! Diamond Tiara, put that glitter down! No, don't dump it on Ruby Pinch!!" "P-Please don't fight!" Moonlight cried. "Oh, no..." Twilight muttered with dread. "Cobalt, stop hovering over me!!" Crystal yelled from her little corner in the room. "I'm fine, seriously!!" "You don't know that!" Cobalt exclaimed. "Oh, I knew we shouldn't have come here!! I told you we should've gone to the hospital first!" "You're being paranoid!" Crystal argued. "For goodness sake, can't you calm down and enjoy yourself?!" "Both of you calm down, please!" Tempest urged. "Umm...everypony?" Twilight asked. "Can we please settle down!" Before too long, she heard somepony else yelling. "This is getting ridiculous!" shouted a blue-coated earth pony stallion. "I wanna go home!" "Me, too!" exclaimed Lyra Heartstrings. "I'm tired of being cooped up in here!" "Oh, come on, Lyra!" BonBon argued. "We've only been here for maybe 2 hours!" "IT'S BEEN 2 HOURS?!!" Rainbow Dash questioned. "AAAAAAAAHH!!! I GOTTA GET OUTTA HEEEEEEEEEERE!!!" "Wait! Wait, please!" Twilight cried, but her voice was drowned out by everypony begin to yell and argue with each other. "I had never gotten something so abominable!" Rarity shouted. "You want abominable?!" Fluttershy questioned. "Maybe you should try looking at all those dresses you make!!" Rarity gasped in dramatic horror. "You fiend!!" she shouted. "How dare you?!" "For once, I have to agree!" Applejack shouted. "Who puts that many gemstones on a silly dress?!" "It's called BEDAZZLING!!!" Rarity barked. "You are so clingy!!" yelled Crystal. "Clingy?!" Cobalt asked. "I'm just trying to make sure nothing happens to our unborn child!!" "Stop it!" Tempest yelled. "Don't cause yourself any unnecessary stress!!" "Please, everypony, calm down!!" Twilight called out, but her voice remained unheard among the storm of arguments. As Twilight was trying to calm the guests down, Moonlight was busy trying to quell her friends, but they just kept arguing with each other, too. "Come on, you guys!" Moonlight cried. "Can't we just get along?!" She then held up the cards she made. "Look! Look at all the pretty cards that I made for all of you and Twilight and-" "Nopony cares about your stupid cards!!" Apple Bloom shouted, causing Moonlight to back up like she had been kicked in the gut...and soon after, she teared up and whimpered. "Apple Bloom!!" Applejack scolded, having just heard what her sister said. "How could you say that?!" "Moonlight, are you okay?" Spike asked. "Moonlight?" Starlight asked...only for Moonlight to turn and run away. "W-wait! Moonlight, come back!!" Twilight gasped upon seeing her younger adopted sister running up to their shared bedroom, and soon after, the Princess of Friendship followed after her, worriedly. "Moonlight!" Twilight called, causing Tempest to catch sight of them before she began to follow as well. Author's Note Yeah, I know I'm late updating this, but better late than never.
Ch. 1- Hearth's Warming Eve is Here!The snow gently falling from the clouds, the jingling bells, the holly wreathes and tinsil garland, hanging off every window, door, and rooftop, the sweet, sweet smell of gingerbread. All these and more could only mean one thing: Hearth's Warming Eve was here in Ponyville, once again! And right now, everypony was converging to one place: the Castle of Friendship, which was decorated from top to bottom with all kinds of ornaments, courtesy of Rarity, and that was just the outside. Inside the main hall, everypony stared in awe upon seeing the tall Hearth's Warming tree with shiny gold, green, red, and blue bulbs and various other ornaments...but what caught their eye most was the beautiful golden star at the top of the tree. It sparkled brightly, giving off a warm, cozy feeling that made the ponies smile. "Lovely," Rarity smiled as she placed one more gold ornament, neatly even-spaced between a red one on the left and a green right on the right. Of course, the tree wasn't the only thing: there was also the banquet, filled with all kinds of treats, such as cupcakes, cookies, gelatin, apple pies, red velvet cake, muffins, and for drinks, egg nog and cider, as well as fruit punch for the children. Speaking of the children, they were all gathering around Spike and Starlight Glimmer, the latter holding a book with her magic. "Who wants to hear the story of Merry Mare?" asked Starlight, causing all the fillies and colts, including the Cutie Mark Crusaders, to clamor at once in excitement, except for Pipsqueak, who held up his hoof. "Who's Merry Mare?" he asked. "Who's Merry Mare?!" the other children repeated. "Merry Mare is a magical Pegasus pony who brings presents to all the good ponies in Equestria on Hearth's Warming Eve," Starlight answered. "Nopony ever sees her, though," Spike began, "because she only comes when everypony is asleep." "Ooh~!" Pipsqueak exclaimed in fascination. "I tried to stay up to see her, once," Apple Bloom said, "but I was so tired, I just couldn't stay awake, and when I woke up, I saw all these presents under the Hearth's Warming tree!" "Merry Mare only gives presents to ponies that have been good, all year round," Starlight continued, "but does anypony know what she leaves you if you've been naughty." "She leaves you lumps of coal, instead," Diamond Tiara spoke. "Trust me, I know." She blushed while giving an embarrassed chuckle. "Me, too," admitted Silver Spoon, "but Diamond Tiara have been so good, lately, we've been all kinds of presents from Merry Mare!" "And that's very good, indeed," Starlight replied. "So remember, keep being nice to each other, no matter if it's Hearth's Warming or not." "And don't forget to leave a plate of carrots out and a glass of milk," Spike added. "Merry Mare gets hungry while she's making her deliveries!" "How will we know if Merry Mare is around?" asked Pipsqueak. "Easy!" Scootaloo answered. "If you look at the sky and listen very carefully, you can hear the sound of the bells she wears around her neck, jingling as she flies through the air!" "Wow!" Pipsqueak exclaimed. "She sounds amazing!" "Yeah, that's why I can't wait to get home and go to sleep!" Sweetie Belle added. "I hope I get that dolly I wanted, this year!" "I'm getting me a new sled!" Scootaloo spoke up. "And I've been getting my heart set on a new ribbon for my hair!" Apple Bloom chimed in. "What's wrong with the one you have, now?" asked Spike, which prompted Apple Bloom to show him the tattered pink ribbon she had in her hair. "...Oh. Well, I guess you have been wearing it a long time." "Happy Hearth's Warming, everypony!" called Applejack. "Happy Hearth's Warming!!" everypony cheered, laughing happily together, just as it always should be on Hearth's Warming. As the festivities went on, Twilight Sparkle stood at the very top of the stairs with her adopted little sister, Moonlight Essence, watching everypony with warm smiles. "Looks like the party's going well," Twilight said. "Yeah," Moonlight agreed. "Everypony looks like they're having fun." "By the way," Twilight began, "you never actually told me what you wanted for Hearth's Warming this year." "Well...that's because I never really ask for anything on Hearth's Warming," Moonlight answered. "What do you mean?" Twilight inquired. "...Well...back when my family was alive," Moonlight began, "we didn't do anything very big for Hearth's Warming. We would just sit around a fire, sing songs, and tell stories about the holiday...but we never really got presents, mostly because we couldn't afford much." "...I see," Twilight replied. "I guess the Zodiac Nomads weren't very materialistic, huh?" "You could say that, yeah," Moonlight answered. "And honestly, I didn't mind at all! I was just happy to be with my family..." She then trailed off and sighed. "...You still miss them, huh?" asked Twilight, concerned. "Yeah," Moonlight replied before she looked up at her adopted older sister, "but that doesn't mean I'm not happy living with you and Spike and Starlight!" Twilight chuckled as she nuzzled the unicorn filly, lovingly. However, while the warm feelings were going around...one pony wasn't really getting into the festivities, namely a certain handicapped unicorn who almost brought ruin to Equestria about a month back. That unicorn was none other than Fizzlepop Berrytwist...or, preferably, Tempest Shadow, who was sitting apart from the other partygoers with a mug of cider...which had barely been touched. "Yo!" Tempest yelped slightly before she turned to see Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. "Oh...hi," Tempest said. "Some party, huh?" asked Rainbow Dash. "Yeah...I suppose," Tempest replied, although she made no eye contact, whatsoever. "Are you okay?" asked Pinkie. "How come you're just sitting, all by yourself?" "I...I just wanna be alone for a bit, that's all," Tempest answered. "Psh!" Rainbow Dash scoffed. "Well, that's no fun. Have a drink, dance with somepony! Just let loose!" "Yeah! It's Hearth's Warming Eve!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Yeah...I know," Tempest answered before she sighed. "I know I should be happy...but...it's not exactly easy for me." "Why?" Pinkie asked. "Um...pardon me?" Rainbow Dash and Pinkie turned to see one of Tempest's old friends, Cobalt Star. "Mind if I sit with Fizz- err, I mean...Tempest alone?" asked Cobalt. "Sure," answered Rainbow Dash. "C'mon, Pinkie! Let's grab some more cider!" "Yippee!!" Pinkie cheered as she followed the cyan Pegasus, while Cobalt came and sat with Tempest. "Everything okay?" asked the stallion. "...I remember when I used to love celebrating Hearth's Warming with everypony," Tempest said, "but...now it's hard for me, because-" "I know," answered Cobalt. "...It was around Hearth's Warming when you had your accident." "...Yeah..." Tempest whispered, solemnly with a deep sigh. "I don't understand...I should be over this by now." "Hey, I get it," Cobalt said as he put a foreleg around her shoulder. "These things are hard to get through...but at least you're trying, right?" "...That's true," Tempest answered. "I am trying...I just feel like I'm not trying hard enough." She then looked out the window to the falling snow. "The only reason I'm at this party right now is because Princess Twilight invited me...I felt it was the least I could do, after everything she did for me." "I think that's a step in the right direction, don't you?" asked Cobalt. "I guess it is," Tempest answered. "By the way, where's Crystal?" "Over there," Cobalt replied as he pointed to his wife, Crystal Cascade, who was lying on a sofa with a tired look on her face while Fluttershy sat next to her in an attempt to keep her company. The unicorn's belly seemed to have gotten a little bit bigger since Tempest last saw her, indicating that she was nearing the end of her pregnancy. In fact, if she didn't know better, Tempest could see some slight movement going on, and it seemed to make Crystal wince a bit at the strange feeling. "I wanted her to go to the hospital, just in case something happened," said Cobalt, "but no, she insisted on coming to the party with me. Said she hadn't missed a Hearth's Warming party, yet, and she's not starting now." Tempest chuckled. "I see she's just as stubborn as ever," she quipped. "That's my Crystal," Cobalt mused, causing them both to laugh. "How are you doing?" Fluttershy asked. "Oh, I'm fine," answered Crystal. "Thank you for asking...just very tired, right now." "You must be very excited to be a mother," said Fluttershy. "It's been a journey," Crystal replied. "Not a fun one, I might add." She then looked at her belly. "I'll tell you one thing, carrying around this little one hasn't been easy...but I know it'll be worth it." "Have you found out if it's going to be a filly or a colt, yet?" asked Fluttershy. "Honestly, we want it to be a surprise," answered Crystal. "I see," Fluttershy nodded. "Yeah, that's how my Mom did it when she had me," said Crystal. "I guess I just like to do it the family way, you know?" Fluttershy giggled at that. "You have your reasons, I suppose," she said before she looked out a nearby window to see the snow...which was falling quite fast. "It really is snowing, out there." "Yes, it is," Rarity agreed as she looked out the window. "I hope it doesn't snow too much." "Ah, relax," Rainbow Dash said. "What's a little snow done to anypony?" "Well...perhaps," Rarity replied. "It's just that Sweetie Belle and I have to get home, soon." "So do I," Fluttershy added. "I have to check on my animals." "Who wants apple pie?" Applejack asked. "...Well...I am a bit hungry," Fluttershy said. "Do you want anything, darling?" asked Rarity. "No thank you," answered Crystal. "For some reason, I'm not as hungry like I was before." "Well, if you're sure," said Fluttershy before she went to join her friends to eat while Crystal sighed and continued to rest. However, with everypony busy celebrating...they had no idea that the snow was beginning to pile up, outside. Author's Note My Hearth's Warming story. I decided to just go ahead and get this outta the way. It'll probably be finished by New Year's, but that's fine. Hope you guys enjoy!
Ch. 4- A Miracle Is Born"Moonlight?" Twilight called as she entered the bedroom, and she could see a grayish blue and purple tail sticking out from underneath the bed. "Moonlight, come out." "No..." Moonlight's voice whimpered from under the mattress, causing Twilight to approach her. "Moonlight, please come out of there," the purple alicorn pleaded. "Please?" All she got in response was a sniffle as Moonlight turned to face her, revealing her tearful eyes. "You...you said that Hearth's Warming is supposed to be a happy time," the filly said, "but everypony's arguing with each other!" "Oh, Moonlight," Twilight said as she gently pulled her adopted younger sister into a hug, while Moonlight sobbed in her chest. "I'm so sorry." Unbeknownst to the two, Tempest stood behind Twilight as she tried to console Moonlight. The handicapped unicorn's expression softened with sadness and guilt, but then it quickly turned into one of anger as she turned to where the castle drawing room was, so much so, her broken horn momentarily flared up before she turned and walked away, heading back to the gathering place. There, she could still everypony yelling and fighting with each other, and Starlight and Spike trying to keep their hardest to keep the peace. It was more than she could take, so she took in a deep breath and then yelled out at the top of her voice. "EVERYPONY, BE QUIET!!!!" Hearing that shout caused everypony in the room to look up at Tempest, who came down the stares with a cold glare in her eyes...almost as if she had regressed back to when she invaded Canterlot with the Storm King's army. "Listen to you fools!!" she shouted. "Arguing like a bunch of children!! I get it...you don't wanna cooped up in here, but as long as that snow has piled up outside, then we can't go anywhere until morning!" She then pointed her hoof upstairs. "I just went up and saw two sisters who planned this party in order to have fun with their friends, but instead, they're up there, lamenting that nopony is having a good time, and you arguing is making it worse!!" Upon hearing that, everypony seemed to take on faces of guilt and remorse. Some were even murmuring to themselves about the Sparkle Sisters being upset. "Apple Bloom," Tempest said as she approached the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "I know you're upset because you wanna go home and get your presents from Merry Mare...but being mean and ornery isn't going to help your chances. You made poor Moonlight cry because of what you said." "...I did, didn't I?" Apple Bloom asked, sadly. "I...I guess I really was upset...but I didn't mean to get so...well, mean." "I guess we all got a little carried away," Scootaloo added. "Yeah," Sweetie Belle agreed. "I think when Moonlight comes out of there," Tempest began, "you should apologize to her, immediately." "We will," the Cutie Mark Crusaders smiled, which caused Tempest to nod in approval before she moved on to Rainbow Dash. "Look," Tempest began, "I know how some Pegasus can be. They wanna stretch their wings and fly freely...but right now, you just have to tough it out and wait." "...Yeah, you're right," Rainbow Dash concurred. "Man, I acted like a such a dunderhead." "It happens to the best of us," Tempest assured. "Next time, try to take it easy, though." "Thanks, Tempest," Rainbow Dash said as she did a hoof bump with the unicorn, who chuckled before she went up to Fluttershy and Rarity next. "Rarity," Tempest continued, "I know it's not the best-looking sweater...but Fluttershy took the time to make it for you. She did it because she wanted to make you happy. Isn't it the thought that counts?" "...That's true," Rarity said, guiltily as she looked at the awful sweater, then looked at Fluttershy. "Oh, Fluttershy, I'm so sorry! I know you were just doing your best and...I should've been more grateful." "It's all right, Rarity," Fluttershy smiled. "I forgive you." She then looked down at the sweater before she tried to stifle a snicker. "Actually...now that I look at it again, it really is awful, isn't it?" "Pfft...!" Rarity snickered. "Yes, yes it is!" Soon the two friends laughed, causing Tempest to smile, too. "...Maybe...you could give me knitting lessons?" asked Fluttershy. "Well, of course, darling!" Rarity replied. "In fact, consider that my Hearth's Warming gift to you." "I look forward to it," Fluttershy smiled. "And as for you, Cobalt," said Tempest as she approached her two old friends, "I understand that you just want Crystal to have the baby safely...but don't hover over her so much. Let her breathe, too. She's not helpless." "...You're right," Cobalt said with a sigh before he looked at Crystal. "I'm so sorry, Crystal." "Well...I know you meant well," said Crystal. "I'm sorry I yelled at you." "No, no, don't be sorry," said Cobalt. "I mean...it was mostly your hormones talking, right?" "I suppose so," Crystal replied with a chuckle. "Still...it's good to see you care." She then gave her husband a kiss on his cheek, causing him to smile and blush. "Awww~!" everypony around them cooed. "You see?" Tempest asked. "Hearth's Warming is about being together and being happy. That's what really counts." "She's right," said Applejack. "Isn't that why we came to this party in the first place?" Pinkie asked. "To be together." "That is why we came here," said Lyra. "We just weren't expecting to be snowed in, that's all," said Cherry Berry. "We feel really awful," said Derpy Hooves. "As long as you all know that and are willing to make things better," Tempest began, "not just for Princess Twilight and her sister, but all of us, too, then that's all I need to hear. So what do you say? Can we all just...enjoy the holiday?" Soon, the room began to burst into cheers of agreement, which was enough to cause Twilight and Moonlight to come out of their room. "What's going on?" Twilight asked. "Nothing," Starlight replied. "Everything's been taken care of, now...thanks to Tempest." Tempest looked up and smiled at Twilight, who blinked in surprise before she smiled in return, and even Moonlight smiled as she and her adopted older sister came down the stairs. Soon after, Apple Bloom walked up to the filly, along with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. "Hey, Moonlight," said Apple Bloom. "I just wanna say that...I'm really sorry for calling your cards stupid." "It's okay, Apple Bloom," Moonlight smiled. "I know you were just upset." "But that's no excuse for me to be mean," said Apple Bloom. "Yeah, that's no excuse for anypony to be mean," Scootaloo added. "Here-here!" Sweetie Belle agreed. Moonlight smiled before she went up and hugged Apple Bloom, who returned her embrace, and soon after, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and the other fillies and colts joined in on the group hug, to the older ponies adoration. "I'm glad everything's settled, now," Twilight said. "Thank you, Tempest." "Well...I just thought I'd return the favor, that's all," Tempest smiled. "Come on, everypony!" Spike called. "Let's get some cider!" "Yeah!!" everypony cheered...but just then... "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!!" Crystal let out a scream so loud, it would've been broken the windows...and maybe even the castle, itself. "Crystal?!" Cobalt questioned. "Crystal, what is it?!" asked Tempest. "Rrrgh...!" Crystal groaned as she held her belly. "It's...it's time!!" "You mean...?!" Cobalt gasped. "The baby's coming!!" cried Crystal. "Now?!" Tempest questioned while everypony gaped. "W-w-what do we do?!" asked Spike. "I don't know!!" answered Twilight. "Oh, man, this is SO not cool!!" exclaimed Rainbow Dash. Soon, the whole room began to panic...except for Applejack, who pushed her way passed the crowd with a determined expression as she approached Crystal. "Simmer down, everypony!" she called out, causing all the guests to look at her. "Now let's not get our dander up! I know just what to do!" "You?" Crystal asked. "You know about childbirth?" "Sure as shootin', sugarcube," Applejack assured. "Why, I helped Granny Smith deliver babies almost a dozen times, now!" "W-what should we do?" asked Cobalt. "First off, Crystal," Applejack began, "just breathe for right now." "Right," Crystal replied before she take in deep breaths. "Second, she needs a place to lie down," Applejack started. "Can you make it to a bed?" "I...I think so," Crystal replied as she tried to walk to one of the guest rooms, but the pain made her stop in her tracks. "No! I can't do it!" "Oh! We should get some cushions and pile them around on the floor!" Twilight suggested. "I'm on it!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed before she looked to some of her Pegasus friends. "Come on, you guys! Let's move it!" "Right, Rainbow Dash!!" the Pegasi exclaimed as they began to fly off and gather cushions for Crystal to lie on. Once they had gathered enough, Twilight arranged them so they'd be nice and comfortable and that they wouldn't shift when Crystal lied on them. The mint green unicorn whimpered as Cobalt gently eased his wife onto cushions, then lied down beside her. "Shh..." he whispered in a soothing voice. "It's okay, Crystal Cascade. Everything's gonna be fine." "Oh, Cobalt," Crystal whispered. Soon, Spike arrived with a blanket, which he put over the laboring mother. Then, Applejack, after she washed her hooves, soon sat before Crystal while everypony else gathered around, but making sure not to get too close. After about an hour or so, Crystal began screaming as the contractions started getting frequent. Applejack kept shouting "Push", over and over, and then told Crystal to stop once the contractions subsided, temporarily. Soon, an hour became two hours, then three, then four, and the whole time, everypony watched in awe...and some were a bit disgusted, but there was mostly awe. "I can't believe we're actually watching a baby pony being born...!" Pinkie whispered. "Yeah...!" Rainbow Dash agreed. "It's...actually pretty cool!" "Shh~!" Twilight shushed. "Quiet." "Oh, right," Rainbow Dash whispered. "My bad." "How come nothing's happened, yet?" asked Sweetie Belle, softly. "Giving birth to babies takes time, Sweetie Belle," Rarity answered. "Sure looks like it hurts," Spike added with a wince. "Oh, that's so profound of you," Starlight whispered, sarcastically. "Well, excuse me," Spike replied. "Starlight, Spike, no arguing," Twilight chided. "Sorry," Spike and Starlight whispered sheepishly. "Is she gonna be okay?" asked Moonlight. "Sure she will," Apple Bloom answered. "Applejack's done this lots of times." "If you say so," Scootaloo whispered. "I'm going to put my trust in her," Tempest added. Just then, Crystal's screams stopped...but another soon followed, only this one sounded smaller. Soon, Applejack held up a tiny newborn foal with a light green coal and a dark blue mane and tail. "Aww..." Applejack cooed. "It's a beautiful little filly." "Awwww...!" everypony swooned. "Here Applejack," Fluttershy said...holding up the sweater she made for Rarity. "You can use this to wrap her up in." "Are you sure about that, Fluttershy?" Rarity asked. "I'm sure," Fluttershy said. "I think she needs this more." Applejack took the sweater and wrapped the newborn filly up in it, then hoofed her over to Crystal, who happily took her into her forelegs while tears fell from her eyes, while Cobalt sniffled and nuzzled his wife. "She's perfect...!" Crystal whispered as she kissed the filly's cheek. "Our little daughter...!" Cobalt added, while Tempest quietly approached. "Hi," she whispered softly, causing the filly to coo, softly. "I'm your godmare." Soon, the other ponies began to gather around to get a look. "Aww, isn't she cute?" asked Rainbow Dash. "She's so tiny...!" Apple Bloom whispered. "Congratulations, both of you," said Fluttershy. "What are you gonna name her?" asked Twilight. "...You know...I don't think we ever thought of names, yet," Crystal realized. "What do you think she should be called?" asked Cobalt. "...I think it should be something unique," said Tempest. "I think her name should have some meaning." "Well...we were all arguing, before," Starlight said. "Yeah," Spike agreed, "but then Tempest got everypony to calm down...and then the baby was born." "And on such a cold, snowy night, too," Fluttershy agreed. "And now, we're all here together," Rarity began, "to witness this little miracle." "...That's it...!" Crystal said as she looked to her baby. "I know what to call our baby: Miracle Star." "I think it sounds perfect," Tempest said. "Me, too," Twilight agreed. "Welcome to the world, Miracle Star." The newly christened Miracle Star yawned as she nestled in her mother's embrace. Soon after, everypony else began to follow suit, curling up around each other to stave off the cold while the snow fell outside. As everypony began to cast into slumber, Moonlight looked up at Twilight, who covered her and Spike with a wing. "This is the best Hearth's Warming Eve I've ever had," she whispered. "Thanks, Twilight." "Don't thank me," Twilight whispered as she looked to Tempest, who smiled at her. "You're right," Moonlight said. "Thanks, Tempest." "No problem," Tempest whispered. "Happy Hearth's Warming." "Happy Hearth's Warming," whispered Twilight as she began to fall asleep, as well. However, if one would listen closely...they could've heard the sound of bells jingling in the sky. Author's Note I always wanted to do a baby pony birth scene...and now I did!
Ch. 5- The Morning AfterMorning came, and with it brought Hearth's Warming Day. At the Castle of Friendship, everypony was still asleep, even as the sun rose slightly over the snowy hills. It wasn't a surprise, really, considering the fact that everypony had witnessed the birth of little Miracle Star, and the excitement had left them exhausted. However, their slumber was soon interrupted when they heard a loud scream of delight coming from Apple Bloom. "Everypony, wake up!!" she called out. "Wake up and look at what's under the tree!!" "Ugh..." Applejack groaned as she raised her head. "Apple Bloom, quiet down, will- huh?!" To everypony's surprise...there were even more presents under the tree than there were last night! "W-where did all these presents come from?!" asked Twilight. "Merry Mare!" exclaimed Sweetie Belle. "She must have come and visited us last night!" "Yeah, look!" Scootaloo added as she held up an empty plate. "The carrots we left for her are gone!" "She DOES exist!" Pipsqueak cheered. "So, what do we do now?" asked Moonlight. "What do you think?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Everypony grab a present!" Soon, everypony in the room did just that, hurrying to open all the presents they had gotten. As they did, Apple Bloom looked over at Moonlight before she handed her a present. "Here, Moonlight," she said. "You got somethin' from Merry Mare, too." Moonlight opened her present and gasped happily upon seeing it was a set of new paintbrushes. "Wow!" she exclaimed. "Just what I wanted! How did she even know?!" "She's kinda mysterious, that way," Scootaloo replied, holding some new ice skates and a hockey stick. "Yeah," Sweetie Belle agreed, holding a new Princess Pony doll. "We just say thank you for the presents and leave it at that." "Hey, everypony!" Rainbow Dash called as she opened the door, revealing that the snow was now at least at 5 inches. "We can all go home, now!" Upon hearing that, everypony in the room cheered before they began to head out the door. As they left, Twilight, Spike, Starlight, and Moonlight went to see their guests off as they headed out into the snow. "Goodbye, everypony!" Twilight called. "Thanks for coming!" "See you later!" Moonlight added. "Get home safely!" Spike exclaimed. "Be careful!" Starlight chimed in. "Thank you so much for inviting us, Princess Twilight," said Crystal while she held baby Miracle Star in her foreleg and Cobalt stood beside her. "I know the party could've gone a bit better, though." "Oh, it's no problem," Twilight replied. "You know," Rarity started, wearing a glittery light blue scarf to match her eyes, "I actually wouldn't mind getting snowed in like that, again." "Actually, I wouldn't mind it either," Fluttershy agreed, wearing a lime green scarf around her neck. "I hope we do it again for Hearth's Warming, next year." "Really?" Starlight asked. "Well, as long as nopony fights again," said Applejack. "And even if you do," Tempest began, "you all know who will be there to straighten things out." "Yep, and that's you!" Pinkie added before she gasped. "Ooh! I gotta hurry and get home! I still have to send my Hearth's Warming cards to my parents, Maud, Limestone, and Marble at the rock farm!" With that, she soon hopped away. "Thank you for setting everypony down last night, Tempest," Twilight said. "It's the least I could do," Tempest replied. "After all, you went through all this trouble, just to bring everypony together, and I know you hated to see them arguing. Think of it as returning the favor." All four unicorns, plus Spike, laughed at this. "See you later, Tempest," Starlight said. "Hope you get home, safely." "I'll manage," said Tempest as she left with Crystal, Cobalt, and Miracle. "See you next Hearth's Warming!" "See you next Hearth's Warming!" called Twilight. "Bye-bye, Tempest!" Moonlight waved. "Oh, and Mr. and Mrs. Cascade! And Miracle Star!" "Well, Twilight," Spike started, "another happy Hearth's Warming!" "Yeah," Twilight agreed. "And I bet next year will be even better." As everypony headed home for the holiday, up in the sky, a Pegasus mare sat on a cloud, watching them with a content smile on her face. She had a mint green coat and a white mane and tail that had a few gray streaks, she wore a red cape that had two jingle bells attached to the front, and on her flank was a cutie mark with two jingle bells and holly leaves. She chuckled before she looked out behind her, revealing her dark blue eyes, before she gave a wink, then flapped her wings and flew away, making her bells jingle with each flap. THE END Author's Note And that, my friends, is the end! Hope you guys enjoyed it! I know it's not my best, but I hope to improve.
Ch. 2- Snowed In"Aaaahhh..." Rainbow Dash sighed with her hooves over her slightly distended stomach. "Now THAT was good eatin'." "You're telling me," Pinkie agreed, her belly also bloated as she leaned against the Pegasus' back before she gave a burp. "Oops! Scuse me!" "Haha!" Rainbow Dash. "Good one." "Amazing food, as always, Applejack," Fluttershy complimented. "Much obliged," Applejack answered as she looked to the empty table...well, not completely empty, since there were dirty plates and platters all over. "Although next time, I better remember to bring more food, just in case." "Applejack!" Apple Bloom called. "Don't you think it's time we went home, already?!" "Yeah, I wanna get home in time for Merry Mare to bring me my presents!" exclaimed Scootaloo. "Me, too!" Sweetie Belle added. "I think it is about time we got going," said Rarity before she looked to Twilight. "Thank you so much for the party, Twilight." "Of course," Twilight replied. "It was my pleasure." "Thank you for inviting me, too," said Tempest. "I really appreciate it." "No problem, Tempest," said Twilight. "Come on, Crystal," said Cobalt as he approached his wife. "Time to get to station if we wanna make it home for Hearth's Warming Day tomorrow." "Right, I'm coming," Crystal said as she got off the couch and prepared to walk out the door with everypony else. "Have a safe trip home, everypony!" Twilight called. "Happy Hearth's Warming!" "Happy Hearth's Warming, Twilight!" Pinkie replied. "Happy Hearth's Warming to you, too, Moonlight!" Rarity added. "And you, too, Spike!" "You, too, Rarity!" Spike waved. "Happy Hearth's Warming!" Moonlight piped up. "And you, Starlight!" Fluttershy chimed in. "Happy Hearth's Warming, everypony!" Starlight called. However, as Rarity went to open the door...for some reason, it wouldn't budge. "Well, that's odd," said Rarity. "The door seems to be stuck." "Stuck?" Sweetie Belle asked, worriedly. "W-what do you mean, stuck?" "Now simmer down," Applejack said. "Probably just needs a good kick, that's all." She then reared up on her forelegs and gave a powerful kick to the door...but it wouldn't budge. "Huh? Well, what in tarnation is goin' on?" "How come the door won't open?!" asked Apple Bloom. "...I think I know why," Tempest answered as she looked out the window, prompting everypony else to look outside as well...and when they did, they gasped upon seeing at least 6 feet of snow, blocking the door! "We're snowed in?!" Rainbow Dash questioned. "Oh, dear!" Fluttershy exclaimed, worriedly. "Snowed in?!" Scootaloo repeated in alarm. "B-but we can't be snowed in!! I gotta get home, right now!! What if Merry Mare delivers my Hearth's Warming presents, and I'm not there to get them?!!" "Me, too!" Apple Bloom cried. "There's no way she knows that I'm here!!" "How are we gonna get outta here?!" asked Sweetie Belle. "Nopony panic!" Starlight answered. "I'm sure we can find a way out of the snow!" "But how?" Moonlight asked. "Maybe I can melt it!" Spike suggested. "Spike, there's way too much snow for just one little dragon to melt," said Twilight. "I mean, not that I doubt you, it's just I don't want you to exhaust your fire." "Well, what are we gonna do?" asked Moonlight, worriedly. "Maybe I can try and call somepony," Twilight suggested as she headed to the library. "Don't you worry, Crystal," Cobalt said to his wife. "I'm sure Princess Twilight will find a way to get us out of here and get you home to Canterlot." "I'm not really all that worried," Crystal assured. "I think you're the one who's worried." "Me, worried?" asked Cobalt with a scoff. "Of course not! Not one bit worried!" "Ahem!" Tempest cleared her throat. "Cobalt. Your legs are shaking." The unicorn stallion glanced down at his legs, which were trembling uncontrollably. "...Okay, maybe I'm a tiny bit nervous," he said with a sheepish chuckle, which caused Tempest and Crystal to chuckle, as well. "I have an idea!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Let's exchange some gifts while we wait!" "That sounds fun!" Scootaloo replied. "Yeah!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as the ponies went to get their gifts. "Ooh!" Rarity chirped in delight as she picked up a box wrapped up in purple wrapping paper and a pretty, pinky ribbon. "What's in here, I wonder!" "Just something from me," Fluttershy replied. "I hope you like it, Rarity." "Oh, Fluttershy, you shouldn't have!" Rarity said as she tore off the paper and opened the box...only for a look of shock and perhaps disgust to appear on her face. "Well?" Fluttershy asked. "What...is this?" asked Rarity in bewilderment as she pulled out what looked like some sort of cloth with multiple sleeves and stitches missing, here and there. "It's a sweater," Fluttershy replied. "I knitted it, myself, just for you. What do you think?" "Umm..." Rarity muttered. "Well...for one thing, it seems to have more than two sleeves...and it doesn't have a neck hole." "It was my first time," Fluttershy said. "Do you like it, though?" Rarity bit her lip as she looked away. "Well...it's nice," she said. "So you like it, then!" Fluttershy exclaimed, excitedly. "I'm so glad you do!" "...Yes," Rarity replied with a forced grin. "Of course I do." Truth be told, the ivory unicorn couldn't STAND looking at this fashion abomination that Fluttershy dared to call a "sweater"...but seeing as how the yellow Pegasus worked so hard to make it and seeing how happy she was when she gave it to her...Rarity just couldn't bring herself to tell her most sensitive friend how she really felt about it. She always hated it when Fluttershy's feelings got hurt. In fact, she hated it when any of hers got their feelings hurt...especially by her. 'I hope we find some way out of this,' Rarity thought. 'Then I can go home and get rid of this hideous thing for good and tell Fluttershy I lost it! Then my conscious will be clear!' "Tempest!" Twilight called out, suddenly, causing the handicapped unicorn to turn to her. "Can you help me, real quick?" "Sure," Tempest answered as she followed her. "What do you need?" "You know that spell you used to talk to...well...you-know-who?" Twilight asked, which caused Tempest to tense up, slightly. "Well...yes," she said, shaking off her momentary unease. "Why?" XXX Twilight stood before a bowl filled with some sort of potion, while Tempest held a bottle of some kind, which she poured into the bowl. Not long after, there was a poof of smoke, which slightly rose into the air, and there was the sound of static following it. "Hello?" asked Twilight. "Hello, Shining Armor? Cadence?" "H--llo?" asked a voice amongst the static, and though it sounded garbled, Twilight instantly knew it was her brother. "Shining Armor, it's Twilight!" Twilight called. "Can you hear me? Hello?!" "H----o?" Shining Armor asked. "Tw-li--t? He--o?" Unfortunately, the smoke disappeared, and Shining Armor's voice soon disappeared along with it. "What happened?!" Twilight asked in disbelief. "I'm afraid the spell's not perfect," Tempest said. "Plus, with the weather being the way it is, it's hard to get any reception." "I was hoping Shining Armor or maybe Princess Celestia could help us," Twilight said in disappointment. "Twilight, I hate to say this," Tempest began, "but...I'm afraid we'll just have to grit our teeth and bear it. We'll just have to wait it out until morning, when the snow melts enough for everypony to go home." "...I just hope everypony else can hold out until then," said Twilight. "...If it makes you feel better," Tempest began, "I'm glad I'm here at the castle, with you." "You are?" Twilight asked, feeling her spirits lift. "Of course," Tempest replied. "I mean...first off, you saved my life, and second, you helped me to reconcile with my two foalhood friends. Honestly...I can't imagine a better Hearth's Warming." Hearing that caused Twilight to smile, warmly. "That means a lot, Tempest," she said. "Thank you." "Of course," Tempest nodded. "Twilight!" Moonlight called as she walked in. "We're about to make Hearth's Warming cards! Wanna come and make some with me?" "...I'd like that," Twilight answered as she followed her adopted little sister out, and Tempest soon went to join them. However, as she did, she looked back out the window as the snow continued to fall with a slightly worried look in her eyes. "Why do I have this sneaking suspicion that things aren't going to as smoothly as I think?" she asked before she sighed. "Maybe it's nothing." However, she had no idea how right she was going to be, very soon. Author's Note Here's Chapter 2! Not much, I know, but it's the best I could do for today. Happy Hearth's Warming (or Merry Christmas)!
Ch. 3- Tempers FlareInside the main hall, Starlight had gathered up the fillies and colts to make Hearth's Warming cards, just to take their minds off things. Even Spike joined in on the fun. "Hey, Spike, look," Moonlight said as she held her card up, showing a picture of herself, Twilight, Starlight, and Spike, all of them surrounding a glittering tree, and beneath them were the words "Happy Hearth's Warming". "I made it for all of us." "Aww," Spike and Starlight cooed, fondly. "That's so sweet, Moonlight," Starlight said. "Yeah, thanks!" Spike exclaimed as he took it. "I'm gonna show it to Twilight!" "I also made one each for Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash," Moonlight said as she pointed to a nearby pile of cards. "Oh! And I made some for the Cutie Mark Crusaders, too!" "Thanks..." muttered Applejack, unenthusiastically. "What's the matter?" Moonlight asked. "Don't you like the card?" "It's not the card," Scootaloo answered. "We're mad because Merry Mare's gonna drop off our presents at our homes, and we're not even there to get them!" "Well, look on the bright side," said Moonlight. "We're all here, and we're all safe, right?" "Yeah," Spike agreed. "Better us be in here, where it's nice and warm than out in the cold night air." He then shivered, hugging himself for emphasis, which caused Moonlight and Starlight to giggle. However, the Cutie Mark Crusaders still didn't seem very enthusiastic. As for Crystal, she was sitting down with some other ponies, Tempest included. At that moment, Cobalt appeared, carrying a scarf using his magic, which he then used to put around Crystal's neck. "There you go," he said. "Don't want you getting too cold, sweetheart." "Coby, that's very nice," Crystal began as she pulled off the scarf, "but I don't need a scarf. I'm plenty warm as it is." "Oh, really?" Cobalt asked. "Well, if you're sure, okay." He then turned and walked away...only to come back not 5 seconds later. "You're not having any contractions, are you?" "Cobalt, I'm trying to have a conversation," Crystal replied. "I'll let you know if something happens, understand?" "Yes, dear," Cobalt replied before he turned to leave again. "Sorry, dear." "A bit of a worrywart, isn't he?" asked Tempest. "He means well," said Crystal. "He's just worried about me since I'm due to have the baby any time, now." She then made a slightly pained grunt as she put a hoof to her belly. "You okay?" Tempest asked. "Oh, I'm fine," Crystal replied. "Just fine. The baby's just been kicking really hard, lately, that's all." "Are you sure?" Tempest inquired in concern. "Yes, Fizzlepop," said Crystal. "Seriously, you worry about as much as Cobalt does." "...Maybe you're right," said Tempest. "Maybe I am worrying too much." That's when Cobalt appeared next to Crystal, again, holding a pillow in his mouth. "Maybe you should sit down somewhere soft," he suggested, causing Crystal to groan. "...Or not." Concurrently, Rainbow Dash whimpered as she paced back and forth, anxiously as she looked outside and only saw the snow piling up outside. This only caused her to groan as she continued her pacing, only to bump into Pinkie Pie. "Oof!!" they both grunted as their craniums collided. "What's up with you, Rainbow Dash?" Pinkie asked, rubbing her hoof against her skull. "I REALLY don't like being cooped up in here too long, Pinkie," Rainbow Dash replied. "I gotta stretch my wings, y'know?! I think I'm goin' crazy, bein' in here! You gotta help me!" "Oh, well that's easy," said Pinkie. "Just don't think about it!" "Right," Rainbow Dash nodded. "Don't think about it." She then closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. "...Hey! I think it worked! I'm not thinking about it!" "See? I got your back!" Pinkie said as she hopped away. "Just don't think about it, too much, Rainbow Dash," Rainbow Dash told herself. "Just don't think about it, and everything will be fine." A pause...but then the Pegasus began to furrow her brow as sweat began to form on her face. "...This is getting to be harder than I thought," she muttered before she walked off. "I better go find something to do. That'll take my mind off things." She then looked over to Spike, Starlight, and the foals, who were still making cards. "That's it!" she exclaimed before she went over to them. "Hey, mind if I join you guys?" "Sure, you can join us," Starlight answered. "I didn't know you liked making cards, Rainbow Dash," Scootaloo said. "Uh...call it a secret hobby of mine," Rainbow Dash answered, sheepishly. XXX In the kitchen, Rarity looked around, almost nervously, even turning around with a slight yelp, as if she thought that somepony might've been following her. Once she was certain that she was alone, she heaved a sigh as she walked up to the kitchen trash can and then used her magic to hold up the so-called sweater that Fluttershy had made her. She glared at it with great disdain before she opened the lid and prepared to drop the fabric into the can, when all of a sudden... "Rarity...?!" "EEK!!" Rarity shrieked as she turned to see Applejack and Fluttershy, the latter gaping as she saw what Rarity was about to do. "W-what are you doing?" asked Fluttershy. "Is that the sweater I made you?!" "N-no!" Rarity answered. "I-I mean, yes...I mean-" "What in tarnation are ya doin', girl?!" Applejack asked. "Rarity," Fluttershy said, sadly, "do...do you not like my present?" Rarity bit her lip as she looked at the sweater, then at Fluttershy, who blinked sadly at her, but the unicorn only sighed. "All right, fine!" she exclaimed. "I admit it! I hate this hideous thing! I mean...look at it! How can you even call this a sweater?! How am I even supposed to put it on?!" "It's called making an effort!" Fluttershy argued. "I can't believe how ungrateful you're being!" "I know you can be uppity sometimes, Rarity," Applejack began, "but this really tears it!!" "But Applejack, look at it!" Rarity exclaimed. "How can anypony call this raggedy thing a sweater?!" "Hmph!" Fluttershy scoffed before she turned and walked out. "Yeah, what she said!" Applejack agreed before she turned and followed after the yellow Pegasus, while Rarity went after them. "Now wait a minute!" Rarity called. "Can't we be reasonable about this?!" "I can't talk to you right now, Rarity," Fluttershy replied. "In fact, I can't even look at you!" "And I don't blame her!" Applejack added. "What's going on?" Twilight asked as she walked up to them. "Is everything okay?" Before she realized it, Rarity and Fluttershy both began to talk at once, so much so that Twilight couldn't comprehend what they were saying. "Hold it!!" Applejack shouted as she pushed the two of them apart. "Phew! Okay, Twi...what Rarity and Fluttershy are trying to say is that Fluttershy made Rarity this...sweater as a Hearth's Warming gift." "Aww, that's nice!" Twilight smiled. "I'd agree with you, Twilight," said Rarity, "except..." She then showed Twilight the article of clothing, and needless to say, the purple alicorn did grimace slightly upon seeing it. "You see?!" "Well...it's true that it doesn't really look like a sweater," Twilight began before she noticed Fluttershy's hurt and angry expression, "but...Fluttershy put a lot of effort into it, Rarity." "Well...I-I know, it's just-" Rarity started. "HEY!!" Twilight turned to see Apple Bloom glaring at Rainbow Dash, who held up an empty jar. "You got glitter all over my card!!" the yellow earth pony filly shouted as she held up a card that was completely buried in purple glitter. "I did not!" Rainbow Dash argued. "Rainbow Dash, you did open that jar pretty fast," Spike pointed out. "Maybe if you just stopped acting so antsy-" "Antsy?!" Rainbow Dash questioned. "I'm not antsy! You're the one who's antsy!!" "No, I'm not!" Spike argued. "Hey!" Scootaloo shouted at Sweetie Belle. "I was using the glue! Give it back!" "No you weren't!" Sweetie Belle countered. "Umm...guys?" Moonlight asked, worriedly. "Wait a minute!" Starlight called as all the children and even Rainbow Dash and Spike began to argue. "H-hold on! Everypony calm down! Rainbow, Spike, cut it out!! Scootaloo, settle down! Sweetie Belle, no biting! Diamond Tiara, put that glitter down! No, don't dump it on Ruby Pinch!!" "P-Please don't fight!" Moonlight cried. "Oh, no..." Twilight muttered with dread. "Cobalt, stop hovering over me!!" Crystal yelled from her little corner in the room. "I'm fine, seriously!!" "You don't know that!" Cobalt exclaimed. "Oh, I knew we shouldn't have come here!! I told you we should've gone to the hospital first!" "You're being paranoid!" Crystal argued. "For goodness sake, can't you calm down and enjoy yourself?!" "Both of you calm down, please!" Tempest urged. "Umm...everypony?" Twilight asked. "Can we please settle down!" Before too long, she heard somepony else yelling. "This is getting ridiculous!" shouted a blue-coated earth pony stallion. "I wanna go home!" "Me, too!" exclaimed Lyra Heartstrings. "I'm tired of being cooped up in here!" "Oh, come on, Lyra!" BonBon argued. "We've only been here for maybe 2 hours!" "IT'S BEEN 2 HOURS?!!" Rainbow Dash questioned. "AAAAAAAAHH!!! I GOTTA GET OUTTA HEEEEEEEEEERE!!!" "Wait! Wait, please!" Twilight cried, but her voice was drowned out by everypony begin to yell and argue with each other. "I had never gotten something so abominable!" Rarity shouted. "You want abominable?!" Fluttershy questioned. "Maybe you should try looking at all those dresses you make!!" Rarity gasped in dramatic horror. "You fiend!!" she shouted. "How dare you?!" "For once, I have to agree!" Applejack shouted. "Who puts that many gemstones on a silly dress?!" "It's called BEDAZZLING!!!" Rarity barked. "You are so clingy!!" yelled Crystal. "Clingy?!" Cobalt asked. "I'm just trying to make sure nothing happens to our unborn child!!" "Stop it!" Tempest yelled. "Don't cause yourself any unnecessary stress!!" "Please, everypony, calm down!!" Twilight called out, but her voice remained unheard among the storm of arguments. As Twilight was trying to calm the guests down, Moonlight was busy trying to quell her friends, but they just kept arguing with each other, too. "Come on, you guys!" Moonlight cried. "Can't we just get along?!" She then held up the cards she made. "Look! Look at all the pretty cards that I made for all of you and Twilight and-" "Nopony cares about your stupid cards!!" Apple Bloom shouted, causing Moonlight to back up like she had been kicked in the gut...and soon after, she teared up and whimpered. "Apple Bloom!!" Applejack scolded, having just heard what her sister said. "How could you say that?!" "Moonlight, are you okay?" Spike asked. "Moonlight?" Starlight asked...only for Moonlight to turn and run away. "W-wait! Moonlight, come back!!" Twilight gasped upon seeing her younger adopted sister running up to their shared bedroom, and soon after, the Princess of Friendship followed after her, worriedly. "Moonlight!" Twilight called, causing Tempest to catch sight of them before she began to follow as well. Author's Note Yeah, I know I'm late updating this, but better late than never.
